Councillor Judith Smyth in May 2018 and was re-elected in May 2022.
Having lived in the ward since 1978, Judith brought up her family here and knows the area very well.
She says “I walk the same streets as you. This community is my home, and what happens here matters to me.”
Elected in 2018 to represent St Jude Ward, Judith won the seat from the Conservatives because local people wanted a visible and active councillor all year round. Since being elected, she’s been an active champion for the ward. Through monthly ward surgeries at Southsea Library, as well as many conversations on the street and on the doorstep, she remains visible, accessible, and ready to act on the issues you raise.
Having held senior roles in housing, children’s services, health and neighbourhood renewal, Judith knows how to get things done.
“I’ve helped hundreds of residents solve problems and secure the support they need, and with your support, I’ll keep fighting every day for the issues that matter most to you.”
Judith is passionate about ensuring Portsmouth City Council adequately responds to the climate emergency, does all it can to achieve net zero carbon emissions and finds ways to enhance sustainability and biodiversity. She has a particular focus on installing shore power at the port, sea defences, the city plan and social housing carbon reduction. Improving the Palmerston Road and Albert Road shopping areas is also a priority for Judith.
‘I want to be re-elected to continue my work with the administration to push them to work further and faster on all these things as well as to implement the climate emergency actions agreed by Council six years ago. This includes urgent action on biodiversity, traffic calming, pedestrianisation, parks and the sea front and more comprehensive recycling of rubbish. This will all contribute to dramatically reducing Portsmouth’s carbon footprint to secure the future for children growing up in the city.”
Outside of formal council roles, Judith is an active grandparent, enthusiastic sea swimmer and walker, is a member of GMB and Unite unions and is a longstanding member of Portsmouth Choral Union.
Judith can be contacted via:
Mobile: 07974 – 820226
Email: Cllr.Judith.Smyth@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Ward surgery: Every third Saturday of every month from 10am to 12 noon at Southsea Library.