SOUTHAMPTON has been named one of the worst places to live in England, despite recently being crowned the third happiest location in the South East.

According to the latest poll conducted by ILiveHere.com, the city was ranked at number 40 out of the top 50 worst places to live.

For many, these findings are surprising, especially considering Southampton is a City of Culture 2025 finalist.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Daniel Fitzhenry, said: "We don’t recognise this survey and wholeheartedly reject its results.

"Southampton is a forward-looking, culturally rich and diverse city and a great place to live and work. It is home to two large universities and boasts one of the country’s most important passenger and cargo ports.

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"Southampton has some of the best parks in the country, world class culture and heritage, great schools and sporting opportunities, a great choice of shops and restaurants, good transport links, as well as our amazing premier league football team.

"We would also draw readers attention to the Echo’s own recent article which ranks Southampton as one of the happiest places to live in the UK. That’s alongside the numerous academic studies which consistently put us among the top cities for good growth and competitiveness."

Since becoming a City of Culture 2025 finalist last month, the city has been handed a boost of £40k to help with its 2025 bid.

Those on the longlist will be able to access £40,000 each to develop their full application ahead of a shortlist being announced early next year.

GO! Southampton were approached about the poll findings but declined to comment.