Local Politics

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Ceredigion Constituency

Background of Ceredigion

The postcode SY23 5DR is located in Ceredigion, a UK parliament constituency represented in the House of Commons by Ben Lake MP of the Plaid Cymru party.

Ceredigion is a UK parliamentary constituency situated in Mid Wales, known for its coastal and rural landscapes. Established in 1536, it has undergone various changes in boundaries and representation. Historically, Ceredigion has exhibited fluctuating political allegiances, often swinging between Liberal Democrats and Plaid Cymru, reflecting a mix of liberal and nationalist sentiments. Since 2005, it has predominantly been held by Plaid Cymru with fluctuating majorities.

Demographically, Ceredigion has a diverse population, balancing young students from its two university towns, Aberystwyth and Lampeter, with a sizeable elderly demographic. The student population significantly impacts the voter base, making education and youth services pivotal issues. The region is also noted for its strong Welsh cultural identity, with a higher proportion of Welsh speakers compared to national averages.

Economically, Ceredigion is characterised by a mix of traditional agriculture, tourism, and education. Farming remains a major employer, alongside the public sector, particularly the universities, which influence both local economic activity and demographic trends. The service industry, catering to tourism, also plays a crucial role, buoyed by the area's natural beauty and coastlines.

The electorate of Ceredigion has shown variability in their voting patterns, reflecting broader political swings rather than strong party loyalty. During the Brexit referendum of 2016, Ceredigion voted to remain in the EU by a significant margin of 54.6%, mirroring its concerns about the potential negative impacts of Brexit on agriculture and education sectors, as well as a commitment to the EU’s cultural and economic ties.

Ceredigion remains a unique constituency owing to its blend of rural and academic influences, Welsh cultural heritage, and a politically active electorate attentive to local and national issues.

Brexit

Did Ceredigion vote for Brexit?

In the 2016 EU referendum, the constituency of Ceredigion voted to leave the EU. This decision could have been influenced by factors such as concerns over immigration, a desire for greater control over laws and regulations, and a belief in the potential economic benefits of leaving the EU. Additionally, Ceredigion has a strong agricultural industry, and some farmers may have been swayed by arguments about the impact of EU regulations on their livelihoods. Ultimately, the reasons behind Ceredigion's choice to vote for Brexit are varied and complex, reflecting the diversity of opinions across the UK.