Greens celebrate highest ever number of councillors

The party increased its presence in the Guildhall from 11 to 12 councillors at last week’s local election.

They say this is a “vote of confidence” in the work of councillors and candidates in the city.

The party is claiming it won the largest share of votes across the city (the so-called popular vote) but Labour will be the biggest party on the council with 17 seats.

Green candidates at the election count last week (Image: NQ)

Although with 18 needed for an overall majority, the council remains in no overall control and it remains to be seen exactly what kind of leadership will be formed.

Louis Stephen, the current leader of the Worcester Green group, said the party is willing to meet with others to discuss what’s best for the city.

Cllr Stephen, who was re-elected in Battenhall alongside fellow Green Paul Sobczyk last week, said: “As the city has put no individual party in overall control, it is critical that all parties work together to run our city in line with how residents have voted.

“Greens are ready to work with councillors across the political spectrum in a collaborative manner to achieve the best outcomes for our city.

“But today, I would like to thank all residents who voted Green in these elections. We are truly humbled by the record high level of support, thank you.”

Karen Lewing, who was one of two Green councillors re-elected in Arboretum with Hannah Cooper, said: “In 2022 we had six councillors. Today we have 12. To double our number of councillors our number of councillors in two years - no other party is doing that.

“Talking to people in Arboretum, Battenhall, St Stephen’s and other parts of the city, where people have Green councillors they are visible and they can see the difference they make.”