As the Brexit saga reaches its tenth anniversary, Boston, Lincolnshire – dubbed Britain's Brexit capital – remains a hotspot for discontent among residents who cast their votes to leave the European Union. The town's 75.6% Leave majority in 2016 far exceeded the national average of 51.9%, driven largely by concerns over immigration and the strain it put on local services.
Local business owner Michael Wood, who has operated a café in Boston for nearly two decades, concedes that while he doesn't regret his Leave vote, he's profoundly disappointed with the implementation of Brexit. He advocates for 'closed borders' to alleviate the pressure on public services, citing an inability to expand essential infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and GP services to meet the demands generated by population growth.
The debate surrounding Brexit's impact continues to rage in Boston, with some arguing that migrant labour is indispensable for the region's agricultural sector. Conversely, EU citizens who have settled in the area highlight their contributions to the local economy through taxes and entrepreneurial ventures. Daiva Razguniene, a Lithuanian entrepreneur who established a successful bakery business, asserts that foreign residents like herself are committed to integrating into the community and paying their dues.
According to census data from Nomis, there has been a significant increase in EU citizens residing in Boston Borough over the past two decades – growing from 474 (0.7% of the population) in 2001 to 14,099 (20%) by 2021. This influx is part of a broader demographic shift within the town.
Reform UK MP for Boston and Skegness Richard Tice believes that if another referendum were held today, Boston would still vote Leave – although he senses no appetite for such a poll. He attributes the widespread 'grumpiness' to Brexit not meeting the aspirations of the constituency and Brexiteers nationwide. Local councillor Anton Dani, a prominent Brexit campaigner in Boston, now describes Brexit as a 'mirage', pointing to increased migration and political instability within the UK government.
Former MP Matt Warman, who supported the referendum but voted Remain, describes Brexit as a 'gamble' that hasn't delivered everything people wished for. While leaving the EU addressed local concerns about immigration and sovereignty, he worries it hasn't fulfilled all expectations. The sentiment in Boston, a decade on, reflects a complex mix of unyielding conviction, unmet hopes, and growing frustration.