Local Politics

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South Ribble Constituency

Background of South Ribble

The postcode PR5 3TB is located in South Ribble, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Seema Kennedy MP of the Conservative party.

South Ribble is a parliamentary constituency in Lancashire, England, established in 1983. Located primarily in the borough of South Ribble, it also includes parts of the West Lancashire district. The seat has historically been a Conservative stronghold but has seen periods of Labour representation, most notably from 1997 to 2010.

Demographics of South Ribble reflect a predominantly white British population, with a mixture of urban and rural communities. The constituency encompasses towns such as Leyland and Bamber Bridge, alongside several smaller villages. It exhibits a diverse age profile, with a somewhat higher proportion of older residents compared to the national average.

Economically, South Ribble is characterized by a strong manufacturing sector, particularly in automotive and aerospace industries, thanks to companies like BAE Systems and Leyland Trucks. There is also a significant presence of service industries and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), contributing to a relatively low unemployment rate. The area enjoys good transport links, with proximity to major motorways and railway connections facilitating commuting and business activities.

The electorate in South Ribble numbered approximately 75,000 as of the last general election. The constituency has a history of high voter engagement, reflective of its politically active populace. The prevailing political concerns tend to focus on local economic growth, infrastructure development, and public services.

In the 2016 EU referendum, South Ribble voted to leave the European Union, aligning with the broader tendency in similar constituencies in the North West of England. This Brexit stance has influenced political campaigns and policies in subsequent elections, with candidates often addressing the implications of leaving the EU on local industries and employment.

South Ribble is a mixed constituency with a dynamic economy, engaged electorate, and significant political history, playing a pivotal role in regional and national politics.

Brexit

Did South Ribble vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, South Ribble voted to leave the EU. The constituency, like many others across the UK, was swayed by promises of greater control over immigration, laws, and trade deals. Concerns over sovereignty, accountability, and the perceived bureaucracy of the EU also played a significant role in influencing voters' decisions. Some residents in South Ribble felt that leaving the EU would allow the UK to regain its independence and make its own decisions without being tied to the regulations and policies of Brussels.