Local Politics

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Pendle Constituency

Background of Pendle

The postcode BB18 5QA is located in Pendle, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Andrew Stephenson MP of the Conservative party.

Pendle is a UK parliamentary constituency located in Lancashire, formed in 1983. Historically, Pendle has fluctuated between Labour and Conservative representation, reflecting its status as a marginal seat. It encompasses the towns of Nelson, Colne, Barnoldswick, and surrounding villages.

Demographically, Pendle has a diverse population, with a significant proportion from Asian, particularly Pakistani, backgrounds, forming about 22% of the population. This mix influences both local culture and political inclinations. The constituency has a varied economic profile, including traditional manufacturing sectors like textiles and engineering, alongside growing service industries. The area faces economic challenges, particularly in parts of Nelson, with pockets of deprivation and relatively high unemployment rates compared to the national average.

Pendle’s electorate is around 65,000, with voter turnout in recent general elections averaging around 65%. The constituency’s voting patterns often mirror broader national trends, making it a key battleground in general elections. In the 2019 election, Conservative candidate Andrew Stephenson was re-elected, continuing his service since 2010.

On Brexit, Pendle voted to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, with 63% supporting Brexit. This sentiment influenced subsequent electoral outcomes, as the Conservative Party capitalised on pro-Brexit support. The commitment to leaving the EU reflected local concerns about immigration and economic sovereignty, consistent with broader regional trends in Northern England.

Pendle’s blend of industrial heritage, diverse population, and political volatility makes it a microcosm of wider social and economic currents in contemporary Britain.

Brexit

Did Pendle vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Pendle voted to leave the European Union. One of the key reasons why voters in Pendle may have chosen to support Brexit is due to concerns over immigration and sovereignty. The area has experienced significant demographic changes in recent years, leading to worries about job competition and pressure on public services. Additionally, many residents in Pendle felt that the EU had too much control over UK laws and regulations, and wanted to regain autonomy and decision-making powers. These factors likely played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the referendum in Pendle.