In the picturesque town of Buxton, nestled in England’s Peak District, a significant redevelopment project is underway, aiming to invigorate the town center with a £100 million investment. At the heart of these discussions is the River Wye, which is set to be widened as part of the plans to enhance the area.
Buxton’s Population and Immigration Concerns
With a population of around 20,000, Buxton is known for its historic opera house and Georgian architecture. Despite its charm, immigration has emerged as a primary issue among residents. This concern played a vital role in the recent success of Reform UK, which took control of Derbyshire County Council in the May elections.
In a notable political shift, Reform UK gained traction in local elections, winning one seat in Buxton and narrowly finishing second in another. Although the concerns about immigration seem disproportionate given the limited number of immigrants in the area, they reflect a broader trend seen across the UK.
Local Insights on Immigration
- Buxton is located approximately 250 miles from Dover, where many small boats arrive.
- As of June, no asylum seekers were reported to be living in Buxton or the surrounding High Peak Borough Council.
- In the recent elections, nearly one-third of Buxton voters supported Reform UK.
Robert Stordy, a long-time resident, expresses feelings of disillusionment with both Conservative and Labour governments. He noted a generational divide regarding views on immigration, which is echoed by local landlord Ian Howarth, who finds younger residents more opposed to the sentiments expressed by older individuals who often align with Reform UK positions.
Generational Divide in Opinion
During a recent discussion at Buxton Community School, a group of teenagers voiced their opposition to negative attitudes towards immigrants, emphasizing that many seek refuge from dire situations. This contrasts sharply with the sentiments of older generations who often feel overwhelmed by immigration-related issues.
Political Landscape and Local Actions
The election of Melandra Smith, a local campaigner and fluent Japanese speaker, signifies new dynamics in Buxton politics. She gained one of the county council seats after rallying community support against plans to transform a local university’s hall of residence into asylum seeker accommodation. This proposal, prompted in 2023 and opposed by thousands, was dropped in early 2024.
The quest for improved local amenities continues, with a proposed £20 million health hub failing to secure government funding, leading to further frustrations among residents who desire better services.
Community Relations with Immigrants
In 2022, a group of around 150 Ukrainian refugees settled in Buxton, receiving warm welcomes from local families. Most have since transitioned to independent living and employment, integrating well into the community. However, sentiments remain complex, with some residents expressing anxiety about accommodating single male asylum seekers rather than families.
Voices of Buxton Residents
- Many locals, like Liam McGuinness, support the idea of employment opportunities for asylum seekers to alleviate housing costs.
- Residents cite local NHS shortages and a lack of immediate benefits from immigration as continual concerns.
- Community members frequently voice a need to prioritize local needs over accommodating newcomers.
Future Outlook for Buxton
In 2024, the Sunday Times recognized Buxton as one of the best places to live, highlighting its cultural significance. However, many young residents feel disheartened about the state of the country and express a desire to leave. As discussions about immigration persist, the town grapples with its identity and aspirations for a brighter future.
The ongoing developments and community dialogue will undoubtedly shape Buxton’s path, revealing the complexities of small-town life amidst national issues. Whether the town will rise to embrace its potential remains to be seen, as younger generations seek to carve out their futures within its storied walls.
