Local Politics

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Calder Valley Constituency

Background of Calder Valley

The postcode HD6 1LA is located in Calder Valley, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Craig Whittaker MP of the Conservative party.

Calder Valley is a UK parliamentary constituency located in West Yorkshire. Established in 1983, it spans market towns such as Halifax, Hebden Bridge, and Todmorden, and is noted for its scenic valleys and robust community spirit. The constituency has a fluctuating political history, often described as a marginal seat. Historically, it has alternated between Labour and Conservative representation. In recent elections, it has leaned towards Conservative, reflecting broader national trends.

The demographic profile of Calder Valley is mixed. It comprises both affluent areas with higher-than-average incomes and pockets of deprivation. The population is predominantly white, with a small but growing ethnic minority presence. The area has a blend of urban centres and rural expanses, contributing to a diverse range of issues pertinent to its electorate.

Economically, Calder Valley has roots in manufacturing and textiles, although these sectors have declined. Today, the economy is more varied, including retail, services, and a buoyant creative sector, particularly around Hebden Bridge. Tourism also plays a vital role, with visitors attracted to the area's natural beauty and cultural sites.

Calder Valley's electorate is dynamic; the seat had an electorate of approximately 72,000 at the last general election. Voter interests range from economic development and public services to environmental concerns, reflecting the constituency’s varied social fabric.

On Brexit, Calder Valley voted to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, aligning with the broader national result. This outcome highlighted the constituency's preference for sovereignty and immigration control issues over economic uncertainty linked to EU membership. The Brexit stance has had a continuing impact on local political discussions and affiliations.

Brexit

Did Calder Valley vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 Brexit referendum, the constituency of Calder Valley voted to leave the EU. Many residents of Calder Valley were concerned about issues such as immigration control, sovereignty, and the impact of EU regulations on the local economy. Some felt that leaving the EU would allow the UK to regain control over its borders and laws, while others believed that it would provide opportunities for trade outside of the EU. the vote to leave the EU in Calder Valley reflected a desire for greater autonomy and a belief that the benefits of Brexit outweighed the potential risks.