As readers may know, I have launched a taskforce to address the implications of recent Government announcements concerning the Gosport constituency. Namely, the disposal of HMS Sultan, Fort Blockhouse and the former Haslar Immigration Removal Centre.
On Friday 18 November, I hosted the first taskforce meeting. Representatives from the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership, Gosport Borough Council and Portsmouth City Council were all in attendance. The private marine sector was also represented, along with the Higher Education sector. This group of experts have practical experience and in-depth understanding of local governance and planning, the Ministry of Defence and utilisation of public land. This knowledge base is so essential for strategizing a smart path forward.
The group will be assisting me in developing a detailed analysis of the implications of the site disposals for the Gosport community and economy. This will enable me to effectively make the case for investment in Gosport, with evidence-based arguments.
I have already raised my concerns at a meeting with the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. Looking forward, I have meetings arranged with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Defence Secretary in the coming weeks to raise my concerns about these announcements.
