Local Politics

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Colne Valley Constituency

Background of Colne Valley

The postcode HD7 5XD is located in Colne Valley, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Thelma Walker MP of the Labour party.

Colne Valley is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in West Yorkshire. The constituency was established in 1885 and has a mixed political history, frequently shifting between the Conservative and Labour parties. Historically, it was a Liberal stronghold but experienced significant changes throughout the 20th century, reflecting broader national trends.

The region is characterised by a mix of urban towns and rural areas, combining residential communities with agricultural lands. Major settlements include the towns of Huddersfield, Slaithwaite, and Marsden. This varied topography contributes to diverse demographic characteristics, including a higher proportion of older residents compared to national averages.

Economically, Colne Valley hosts a range of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a significant presence in manufacturing, retail, and services sectors. The area has a tradition of textile production, though this has seen decline in recent decades. Employment levels generally reflect national patterns, though pockets of economic deprivation exist, particularly in more urbanised areas.

The electorate of Colne Valley is reflective of its demographic diversity, displaying broad socio-economic variability among its voters. This diversity has often led to closely contested elections, with electoral outcomes swayed by campaign issues pertinent to both urban and rural constituents.

In the 2016 Brexit referendum, Colne Valley voted to leave the European Union, mirroring the overall result in West Yorkshire. The referendum outcome has influenced subsequent electoral dynamics, with local debates heavily centred around Brexit's impact on the local economy and community cohesion. The constituency's current MP, as of the general election of December 2019, is Thelma Walker of the Labour party.

Brexit

Did Colne Valley vote for Brexit?

Colne Valley voted to leave the EU in 2016, citing concerns over immigration, sovereignty, and the perceived lack of control over their own laws and policies. Many residents expressed frustration with a perceived disconnect from the European Union's decision-making processes, and a desire to regain control over their nation's borders. The constituency also has a strong working-class presence, with some voters feeling left behind by globalization and seeking change through Brexit. the decision to leave the EU reflected a mix of economic, social, and political factors that resonated with the residents of Colne Valley.