Earlier this week, I hosted a summer reception in Parliament for South East Councils as chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the South East. I was pleased to see some Hastings Borough councillors there.
I helped set up the APPG in April 2021 to provide a forum for cross-party Parliamentarians to discuss, with other stakeholders, how best to promote and develop the South East region as a great place to live, work, raise a family and do business.
Our initial focus was on levelling up and what it means for the South East. We published a report in July 2022 with four key recommendations to the Government; levelling up should not be about North versus South and must not come at the price of levelling down the South East – something that the Government has clearly taken on board; levelling up must not be a one size fits all policy. It must build upon place strengths with a renewed focus on skills and business-driven economic clusters. I am delighted that both Hastings and Rother are now Levelling-up Partnerships and will benefit from bespoke place-based regeneration. Thirdly, higher levels of devolved powers should not require further centralisation, and directly elected mayors, where it is not desired, and finally, levelling up must address the issue of local government finance – it must be long-term, certain and flexible.
Our current inquiry on transport infrastructure was launched in February this year, and our report will be published shortly. At the reception, I spoke about the importance of transport infrastructure in our region and was grateful to my neighbour in Battle and Bexhill, Huw Merriman, as rail minister, who updated us on current and future plans.
The South East acts as the ‘beating heart’ of the UK economy and is one of the three net contributor regions to the Treasury’s coffers. The region benefits from its proximity to London, which remains the financial capital of the world, attracting global investment and facilitating international trade. This, along with our ports and proximity to Europe, acts as an engine that drives the whole country forward.
Such prosperity, however, cannot be sustained without a robust and efficient transport network, essential to support the movement of goods, services and people, facilitating commerce, employment and tourism. Connectivity is key and enhancing transport infrastructure would improve connectivity within and beyond our region, making it easier for businesses to transport their goods to national and international markets. Reliable and efficient transportation systems reduce logistical barriers, enabling companies to expand their reach, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity. This is why I continue to campaign for a better, faster and decarbonised rail service from London via Ashford to Rye, Hastings, Bexhill and beyond.
Investing in transport infrastructure would also alleviate congestion - a pressing issue along the Ridge, as we well know. Traffic congestion not only impedes productivity but also contributes to increased pollution levels and longer commuting times. By upgrading existing road networks, expanding public transportation, and investing in alternative modes of transport – like decarbonised and fast passenger and freight trains, cycle lanes etc, we can alleviate congestion, reduce environmental impacts and enhance the quality of life of our residents.
Importantly, improving our transport infrastructure would attract investment to Hastings and Rye. Investors and businesses look for regions with well-developed integrated transportation networks that offer smooth access to markets and supply chains. By upgrading our local infrastructure, we demonstrate our commitment to fostering business growth, enticing new enterprises to set up here and retaining existing ones. This, in turn, would encourage economic development and prosperity.
The South East holds a pivotal position within the UK economy, contributing significantly to its growth and dynamism. Hastings and Rye must be given the opportunity to benefit from being situated in this pivotal region, and investing in transport infrastructure is crucial to unleash our full potential. By enhancing connectivity, reducing congestion, and attracting investment, we can unlock new opportunities, stimulate economic activity, and improve the lives of thousands of people across Hastings and Rye and beyond.
I look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the South East, but especially Hastings and Rye, continues to thrive and prosper.