Local Politics

---

Darlington Constituency

Background of Darlington

The postcode DL1 1JU is located in Darlington, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Jenny Chapman MP of the Labour party.

Darlington is a parliamentary constituency in County Durham, North East England, established in 1868. Historically significant, it predominately experienced Labour representation in the latter half of the 20th century and early 21st century, interrupted only by Conservative gains at intervals, most notably in 1983 and in the 2019 general election.

The demographic profile of Darlington reflects its urban nature, with a population of around 105,564 as per the 2011 census. The electorate is diverse, comprising a mix of middle and working-class populations amid post-industrial northern economic settings. Historically rooted in railway engineering—Darlington was home to the world's first passenger railway—current economic activities include services, healthcare, retail, and light industrial sectors.

Darlington's employment rate aligns with regional trends, though it has faced challenges typical of post-industrial economies, such as the need for economic regeneration and investment. The area holds a range of educational facilities, including secondary schools and a college, enhancing its appeal for families and young professionals.

In terms of Brexit, Darlington was part of the North East of England, which voted overwhelmingly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, with approximately 56% in favour. This aligns with broader regional economic concerns and euroscepticism.

The nature of Darlington's electorate reflects a blend of traditional Labour loyalty with a significant and growing appeal for Conservative policies, particularly in recent electoral cycles, underscoring the dynamic political landscape and shifting voter priorities within the constituency.

Brexit

Did Darlington vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Darlington voted to leave the EU. This decision was largely influenced by concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and a desire to regain control over laws and regulations. Many voters in Darlington felt that leaving the EU would allow the UK to have more control over its borders and make decisions independently. Additionally, some residents were dissatisfied with the perceived lack of accountability and bureaucratic nature of the European Union. The result reflected the desire of the local population to assert their independence and prioritize national sovereignty.