Local Politics

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West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Constituency

Background of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine

The postcode AB30 1QL is located in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Andrew Bowie MP of the Conservative party.

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in Scotland, encompassing rural and semi-rural areas. Politically, it has seen varied representation. Initially established in 1997, the constituency has been represented by both the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats. Historically, Liberal Democrat Sir Robert Smith held the seat until 2015, when the Scottish National Party (SNP) won, aligning with the national surge. From 2017 onwards, the Conservatives regained control, firmly held by Andrew Bowie, reflecting a shift towards the centre-right.

Demographically, the constituency comprises a mix of small towns and villages, with a population engaged primarily in agriculture, oil and gas sectors, reflecting the broader economic landscape of Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire. There is a blend of socio-economic backgrounds, although it generally leans towards more affluent and middle-class households. This pattern is mirrored in relatively high employment rates and average household incomes, indicative of economic stability.

Economically, the region benefits from significant agricultural, energy, and service industries, contributing to both local and national economies. Aberdeen city’s proximity influences the area's economic activities, particularly the oil and gas industries.

The electorate exhibits moderate political engagement, with voter turnout consistently around, or slightly below, the national average in general elections. The 2016 Brexit referendum showed a marginal preference to remain within the European Union, reflecting some division but leaning towards pro-European sentiment.

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine manifest a blend of rural tradition and economic modernity with a propensity for centrist to centre-right political representation, set against a backdrop of evolving economic and demographic characteristics.

Brexit

Did West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU Referendum, the constituency of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine voted to leave the EU. The decision could have been influenced by concerns over EU regulations affecting the fishing industry, which is a major sector in the region. Additionally, the area has a history of strong agricultural ties, and some voters may have felt that leaving the EU would allow for more control over farming policies. The result reflects the diverse range of factors that can shape voters' decisions on such a significant issue.