Local Politics

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Poole Constituency

Background of Poole

The postcode BH15 3AJ is located in Poole, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Robert Syms MP of the Conservative party.

Poole is a UK parliamentary constituency situated within Dorset on the south coast of England. Established in 1950, it encompasses the coastal town of Poole along with surrounding suburban and rural areas. Historically, Poole has predominantly supported the Conservative Party, evidenced by consistent returns of Conservative MPs in general elections, excluding brief periods when the seat was held by the Liberal Democrats in the 1990s.

Demographically, Poole has an ageing population, with a significant proportion of retired residents, though it also includes younger families and professionals. The constituency is characterised by a mix of affluent areas, particularly in the coastal suburbs and Sandbanks, one of the most expensive residential areas in the UK, alongside more economically diverse inland communities.

Economically, Poole leverages its coastal location, hosting one of the largest natural harbours in the world, which underpins the local economy through its traditional maritime industries, including shipbuilding, commercial port activities, and marine leisure industries. The area has also seen growth in the tourism sector, driven by its beaches and natural attractions. Additionally, service sectors such as education, healthcare, and retail contribute significantly to local employment.

The electorate of Poole stood at approximately 80,000 as of the last election. Voter turnout has been variable but generally mirrors national averages.

In the 2016 EU Referendum, Poole strongly favoured Brexit, reflecting a broader trend in many parts of England outside metropolitan centres. This pro-Leave stance has influenced local political discourse and remains a salient issue in subsequent elections, shaping the constituency's approach to national politics and European relations.

Brexit

Did Poole vote for Brexit?

Poole, like many coastal towns in the UK, voted in favour of leaving the EU in the 2016 referendum. Residents here, like in other similar areas, may have been influenced by concerns over fishing rights, immigration, and sovereignty. With a strong history of fishing and maritime industries, some locals believed that leaving the EU would give the UK control over its waters and protect fishing communities. Additionally, worries about the impact of immigration on local services and job opportunities could have contributed to the decision to leave. The desire for greater national independence may have also swayed many voters in Poole.