How Place‐Based Policy Could Counter Populist Discontent

Resentment felt by people in areas that have suffered from social and economic decline is a significant driver of populist backlash—‘the revenge of the places that don't matter’. An effective place‐based strategy could provide something of an antidote to populist discontent. In power, populist leaders are arch‐centralisers, organising government to dance to their tune. By focusing on place, UK government can respond to people's feelings of being neglected by Westminster and give them the power and tools to tackle issues that matter to their community. Drawing on a survey conducted in England in 2025, we show that, although place‐based grievance is widespread, people still express pride in place and see unfulfilled potential, while negative perceptions reflect the material condition of local areas. There is demand for state intervention, but little faith in the ability of central government to deliver. In response, a place‐based strategy requires a new style of multilevel governance followed by a slower, more place‐sensitive push towards devolved government.