Local Politics

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Southend West Constituency

Background of Southend West

The postcode SS2 6LQ is located in Southend West, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by David Amess MP of the Conservative party.

Southend West is a UK parliamentary constituency located in Essex. It was established in 1950 and primarily encompasses the western parts of Southend-on-Sea, including Leigh-on-Sea and Westcliff-on-Sea. The area is known for its coastal environment, offering a mix of urban and suburban living.

Politically, Southend West has been a stronghold for the Conservative Party. The seat has been continuously held by Conservative MPs since its creation, with notables such as Paul Channon and David Amess representing the constituency. David Amess, who served from 1997 until his tragic death in 2021, was succeeded by Anna Firth in a by-election. The consistency of Conservative representation indicates a generally centre-right political alignment among the electorate.

Demographically, the constituency has a predominantly white British population, with a significant proportion of elderly residents compared to the national average. The area is somewhat affluent, featuring a mix of residential neighbourhoods, local businesses, and picturesque seafront properties. Education levels are relatively high, with numerous schools and colleges serving the community.

Economically, Southend West benefits from a vibrant local economy characterised by a combination of retail, tourism, and service industries. The proximity to London ensures good connectivity and opportunities for commuting, while the local economy thrives on its hospitality and recreational sectors, including the renowned Southend Pier and various cultural attractions.

Regarding Brexit, Southend West voted decisively to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum, reflecting a broader Eurosceptic sentiment within the constituency. This preference aligns with the generally traditional and conservative values held by many of its residents.

Southend West is a coastal constituency with a stable political landscape, an ageing and predominantly white demographic, and an economy bolstered by its scenic and strategic location.

Brexit

Did Southend West vote for Brexit?

In the EU referendum of 2016, the constituency of Southend West voted to leave the European Union. There are a number of reasons why this might have been the case. Some voters in the area may have been concerned about sovereignty, wanting decisions about laws and regulations to be made closer to home. Others could have been influenced by the promises made by the Leave campaign about controlling immigration and boosting the UK economy. Ultimately, the reasons why Southend West chose to leave the EU are likely to be as diverse as the constituency itself.