Local Politics

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Wantage Constituency

Background of Wantage

The postcode SN7 7RN is located in Wantage, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Ed Vaizey MP of the Conservative party.

Wantage is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in Oxfordshire, encompassing the market towns of Wantage and Didcot, alongside several villages and rural areas. It was established in 1983, succeeding the former Abingdon seat. The constituency has traditionally leaned towards the Conservative Party, consistently electing Conservative MPs since its inception. Ed Vaizey served as its MP from 2005 until 2019, when he was succeeded by David Johnston, also of the Conservative Party.

Demographically, Wantage is characterised by a mix of rural communities and expanding urban developments, particularly around Didcot, which has seen significant growth due to its proximity to major transport links and employment hubs. The population is relatively affluent, with high levels of employment and above-average earnings. The area is home to many professionals, particularly those employed in Oxford or commuting to London.

The local economy benefits from a robust industrial and scientific sector, including the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, which hosts numerous high-tech businesses and research institutions. Additionally, agriculture continues to play a role in the more rural parts of the constituency.

The electorate in Wantage is composed of over 80,000 eligible voters, with voter turnout typically high, reflecting the engaged nature of the community. In the 2016 EU referendum, Wantage voted narrowly to remain in the European Union, reflecting a relatively divided opinion on Brexit.

Wantage is a constituency that combines traditional rural elements with contemporary economic growth, underpinned by a consistently Conservative political alignment.

Brexit

Did Wantage vote for Brexit?

The constituency of Wantage voted to leave the EU in 2016. Residents were influenced by concerns regarding immigration, sovereignty, and the impact of EU regulations on their economy. Many voters felt that leaving the EU would allow the UK to have more control over its borders and laws, as well as provide opportunities for trade deals outside of the EU. Wantage, like many other areas in the UK, saw Brexit as a chance for change and to take back control from Brussels.