The MP for Stoke-on-Trent South described Longton as "a town on the up" in a speech to Parliament.

MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, Dr Allison Gardner, spoke of the community spirit, creativity and hard work driving Longton's revival during today's (4 November) Opposition Day debate. 

Speaking in the Commons, Dr Gardner offered praise for Longton's high street and called for continued investment to sustain its "energy and pride". 

Dr Gardner said: "The high street is the heart of Longton. When the high street thrives, the whole town thrives." 

The MP also applauded Chris Ward and the Longton Exchange team for their contribution to the town centre, and celebrated the success of local businesses such as the Kiln at Number 12, So Very Dog, and new arrival Crumbs bakery, which recently won the Win a Shop competition. 

The speech also mentioned the Launch it enterprise centre, and Urban Wilderness CIC who organise the annual Pig Walk, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. 

In the speech Dr Gardner promised to fight for Longton to get its fair share of the £1.5 million Pride in Place fund, as well as support from the Labour Government's national investment in high streets. 

She also raised the work being done between herself and Cllr Lauren Davison in Meir North, given the £20 million secured for the area under the Pride in Place fund, particularly the recent drive for more security measures on Weston Road. 

Dr Gardner called for action on empty and neglected buildings and said: "We've seen too many fires and too much neglect in older properties. 

"Absent landlords must be held to account — Longton deserves better." 

Dr Gardner praised the Longton Community Partnership, led by Sheila Cowell and her team. 

She also discussed the progress being made through the preliminary Longton Masterplan, which aims to make the town the most inclusive and accessible in Stoke-on-Trent. 

 Dr Gardner said: "This community is full of people who care and who make things happen. 

 "With their creativity, determination and pride — and with the backing of this Labour Government — Longton's best days are still to come."