Local Politics

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Bishop Auckland Constituency

Background of Bishop Auckland

The postcode DL14 8RB is located in Bishop Auckland, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Helen Goodman MP of the Labour party.

Bishop Auckland is a UK parliamentary constituency located in County Durham, North East England. Established in 1885, it has historically been a stronghold for the Labour Party, mirroring the industrial heritage and working-class demographics of the area. This political landscape, however, experienced a significant shift in the 2019 general election when the Conservative Party gained the seat for the first time in over a century, reflecting broader changes in voter alignment in traditionally Labour regions.

Demographically, Bishop Auckland encompasses a mix of urban and rural communities, with market towns and former coal mining villages. The seat includes the towns of Bishop Auckland and Shildon, both of which have faced economic challenges, particularly since the decline of traditional industries. The constituency has sought to diversify its economic base, with efforts to stimulate growth in sectors such as tourism, given its proximity to cultural landmarks like Auckland Castle.

The electorate of Bishop Auckland was approximately 78,000 as of the last election, showcasing a diverse mix of voters. Educational attainment and income levels in the area tend to be lower than the national average, contributing to local concerns about economic prospects and public services.

On Brexit, Bishop Auckland voted predominantly to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, with 60.8% favouring Brexit. This sentiment played a notable role in the political realignment witnessed in the 2019 general election, as Brexit-related issues swayed many voters towards the Conservative Party, which campaigned on a platform to deliver Brexit.

Bishop Auckland exemplifies the complexities of economic transition in post-industrial Britain and the accompanying shifts in political allegiance.

Brexit

Did Bishop Auckland vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Bishop Auckland voted to leave the EU. Some residents felt disillusioned with the political establishment, feeling that their voices weren't being heard. Concerns about immigration and a desire to regain control over laws and borders were also cited as reasons for voting to leave. The area had also experienced economic decline and felt left behind, prompting some voters to choose Brexit as a way to shake up the status quo and bring about change. The decision to leave the EU was seen as a way to take back control and address issues that had been neglected for too long.