Coastal towns like Blackpool deserve better – I’m fighting for it

I’ve joined other Labour MPs from coastal towns to demand action from the government. We want a proper plan to bring good jobs and opportunity back to places like Blackpool.

Our town was written off by the Tories. We’ve seen decent jobs disappear, transport links crumble and too many young people forced to move away to build a future. You shouldn’t have to leave the town you love to get on in life.

We’re calling for a national plan for coastal towns. The last Labour government turned London’s schools around through the London Challenge – a school improvement programme that delivered lasting changes to whole communities across the capital. It worked because it brought people together with one clear goal and we need the same ambition now for our seaside towns.

We’re asking for a few clear things. A Minister for Coastal Communities would make sure our towns aren’t forgotten. Investment in apprenticeships, post-16 education would provide good, secure jobs for people who don’t go to university. Better public transport would enable people to get to work and training without two-hour bus rides. And a coastal health strategy, based on Sir Chris Whitty’s report into health in coastal communities, would tackle the entrenched health inequalities that exist on the coast.

I’m proud to be part of a group of 66 Labour MPs standing up for the coast. Together we represent the places that the Conservatives ignored for over a decade. We’re working to make sure our new Labour government delivers for us.

Blackpool is full of talent and potential. What we’ve lacked is the backing to deliver good jobs, decent homes and a future that keeps our young people here, not forces them to leave.

It’s time for a fair deal for coastal Britain.