Local Politics

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Ashfield Constituency

Background of Ashfield

The postcode NG17 3FQ is located in Ashfield, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Gloria De Piero MP of the Labour party.

Ashfield is a parliamentary constituency located in Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom. Historically, Ashfield has been a Labour stronghold, with the party holding the seat for extended periods; however, in recent years, political dynamics have shifted, showing more competitive races. Labour's prolonged dominance was interrupted in 1977 when Tim Smith of the Conservatives won a by-election, though Labour regained control in 1979. The 2019 general election saw a significant political shift, with Conservative Lee Anderson winning the seat, reflecting broader trends of Labour's declining influence in its traditional heartlands.

The constituency encompasses industrial towns including Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Sutton-in-Ashfield, historically reliant on coal mining and manufacturing, though these industries have seen a decline. As such, Ashfield has undergone economic transition, with diversification into sectors such as retail, healthcare, and logistics.

Demographically, Ashfield features a predominantly White British population, with socioeconomic indicators displaying a mix of working-class and lower-middle-class residents. Educational attainment levels and income averages remain relatively modest compared to national figures, and the area includes pockets of deprivation.

The electorate in Ashfield has shown remarkable political fluidity in recent elections, influenced by local and national issues. In the 2016 Brexit referendum, the constituency voted heavily to leave the European Union, reflecting widespread Euroscepticism prevalent in many post-industrial communities.

Ashfield represents a microcosm of broader UK electoral trends, with shifting political allegiances, economic transformation, and significant impacts from national issues such as Brexit.

Brexit

Did Ashfield vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Ashfield voted to leave the EU. One potential reason for this decision could have been a desire to take back control of national sovereignty and borders. Many residents in Ashfield may have felt that leaving the EU would give the UK more autonomy over its laws and immigration policies. Additionally, concerns about the impact of EU membership on local industries, such as mining and manufacturing, could have influenced voters to opt for Brexit. These factors likely played a role in shaping the outcome of the referendum in Ashfield.