Local Politics

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Bolton West Constituency

Background of Bolton West

The postcode BL6 6AW is located in Bolton West, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Chris Green MP of the Conservative party.

Bolton West is a UK parliamentary constituency located in Greater Manchester. It was first established in 1950, later abolished in 1983, and re-established in 1997. The constituency encompasses both urban and semi-rural areas, including parts of Bolton, Horwich, Blackrod, and Westhoughton. Historically, Bolton West has exhibited a tendency for marginal political outcomes, frequently swinging between Labour and the Conservative Party.

Labour traditionally held the seat from the late 1990s until 2010, when Conservative candidate Julie Hilling captured it. In the 2015 general election, Conservative Chris Green took the seat and retained it in subsequent elections, suggesting a slight shift towards Conservative dominance in recent years. Bolton West was considered a bellwether seat, often reflecting broader national trends.

Demographically, Bolton West presents a mix of economic profiles. It includes affluent suburban areas as well as wards facing significant socio-economic challenges. The electorate is diverse, accommodating a range of socio-economic backgrounds. The local economy is characterised by a combination of manufacturing, retail, and service industries, with some residents commuting to Manchester and other nearby cities for employment.

During the 2016 EU Referendum, Bolton West voted in favour of leaving the European Union, reflecting a strong sentiment for Brexit among the constituents. This mirrored the broader trend in the North of England where Brexit sentiment was significant.

Bolton West's political landscape is dynamic and closely contested, influenced by a mixture of urban and rural issues, economic diversities, and shifting party loyalties. The Brexit referendum outcome exemplifies the constituency's alignment with broader regional and national trends concerning EU membership.

Brexit

Did Bolton West vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Bolton West voted to leave the EU. This decision could have been influenced by a variety of factors, including concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to regain control over laws and regulations. Additionally, attitudes towards the EU within the region may have been shaped by economic factors, such as job security and access to markets. Ultimately, the voters in Bolton West may have believed that leaving the EU was the best course of action for their community and the country as a whole.