In a significant electoral shift, Reform UK, led by Sarah Pochin, secured victory in the Runcorn & Helsby constituency, previously dominated by Labour. Pochin addressed pressing local concerns regarding immigration, stating that Runcorn has become a "dumping ground for illegal immigrants." She highlighted residents' feelings of insecurity and frustration over inadequate public facilities, pointing to the lack of recreational spaces like leisure centers and cinemas. Pochin emphasized that her agenda prioritizes tackling these issues and increasing community support, signifying an urgent call for representation in this long-overdue shift toward addressing the constituency's needs.
Immigration is massive here. Runcorn feels like a dumping ground for illegal immigrants. We've had the Derby Hotel. We've got houses and multiple occupancy, it's a big issue.
People feel unsafe on the streets in certain parts of the constituency because of that. That's definitely something and as you know, it's very much part of our agenda to tackle that problem.
There's also a general feeling of the cost of living going up. There's no public facilities in this constituency.
There's no leisure centre here for people. There's no cinema so families are having to go over the bridge.
Collection
[
|
...
]