Local Politics

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Basildon and Billericay Constituency

Background of Basildon and Billericay

The postcode SS14 2ET is located in Basildon and Billericay, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by John Baron MP of the Conservative party.

Basildon and Billericay is a UK parliamentary constituency located in Essex, established in 2010 from the previous constituencies of Billericay and parts of Basildon. Historically, the area has been a bellwether seat, often indicative of the broader national political trends. It has predominantly been Conservative but has seen some variations, reflecting the nuanced local electorate. The current Member of Parliament is John Baron, a member of the Conservative Party, who has represented the area since 2001 under the previous constituency boundaries and has been consistently re-elected since the 2010 reformation.

The constituency has a diverse demographic profile, with a mix of urban and suburban populations. Basildon, traditionally seen as a working-class area with a significant proportion of social housing, contrasts with Billericay, known for its more affluent residential character and higher property values. The population includes a blend of long-term residents and younger families attracted by relatively affordable housing and good commuter links to London.

Economically, the constituency has a mixed economy, with key sectors including retail, manufacturing, and logistics. The presence of large industrial estates and retail parks provides significant employment opportunities, while many residents also commute to London for work, benefiting from the well-developed transport infrastructure.

In the 2016 Brexit referendum, the Basildon and Billericay area voted overwhelmingly in favour of leaving the European Union, reflecting a strong Eurosceptic sentiment among the electorate. This stance has been mirrored in the voting patterns and political discourse within the constituency since the referendum, showcasing a preference for parties and candidates supporting Brexit.

Brexit

Did Basildon and Billericay vote for Brexit?

The constituency of Basildon and Billericay voted to leave the EU in 2016, reflecting a desire for change among many residents. The area has a history of economic struggles and high levels of immigration, which may have influenced the decision to leave. Concerns over sovereignty, immigration controls, and frustrations with the political establishment likely played a role in shaping the outcome. The result showed a strong sentiment for taking back control and addressing longstanding issues around jobs and public services. The vote to leave in Basildon and Billericay was a clear message of discontent with the status quo.