Local Politics

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North Thanet Constituency

Background of North Thanet

The postcode CT8 8AQ is located in North Thanet, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Roger Gale MP of the Conservative party.

The North Thanet parliamentary constituency is located in Kent, England, comprising the coastal towns of Margate, Herne Bay, and surrounding villages. Since its creation in 1983, North Thanet has consistently returned Conservative MPs to the House of Commons, with Sir Roger Gale serving as its Member of Parliament since its inception.

North Thanet's demographics reflect a predominantly older and middle-class population, although areas such as Margate have diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The constituency has a significant proportion of retirees and lower-than-average ethnic diversity compared to urban centres. The economic profile of North Thanet includes sectors such as tourism, retail, healthcare, and some light industry. Margate, in particular, has undergone significant cultural regeneration, drawing artists and new businesses to the area.

The electorate of North Thanet has shown steady support for the Conservative Party, with substantial majorities in recent general elections. In terms of voter turnout, North Thanet typically mirrors the national average, reflecting a reasonably engaged electorate.

The constituency's stance on Brexit was notably in favour of leaving the European Union. In the 2016 referendum, the broader district of Thanet, which includes North Thanet, recorded a strong Leave vote, aligning with the overall trend in Kent and other parts of England outside major cities. The Leave vote reflected concerns over sovereignty, immigration, and the impact of EU regulations on local businesses.

North Thanet continues to be representative of traditional Conservative values, with a focus on maintaining local community services, supporting economic development, and addressing the challenges and opportunities post-Brexit. The constituency remains an important part of the political landscape in South East England.

Brexit

Did North Thanet vote for Brexit?

In 2016, the constituency of North Thanet voted to leave the EU. The decision could have been influenced by a variety of factors, including concerns about immigration, sovereignty, and the desire for more control over laws and regulations. Many residents may have felt disconnected from the decisions made in Brussels and saw leaving the EU as a way to regain independence. Additionally, the Leave campaign's promises of increased funding for public services and the ability to strike trade deals independently could have resonated with voters in North Thanet.