The Green Party is witnessing an unprecedented surge in support, particularly in Lewisham, demonstrating a significant shift in political allegiance among left-leaning voters. This change is largely attributed to disillusionment with Labour, as activists and potential voters express their frustration with the party’s direction under Keir Starmer’s leadership.
A Record Turnout in Lewisham
On a chilly Saturday morning in Lewisham, south London, approximately 600 Green Party activists gathered at a local primary school, marking the largest assembly in the party’s history outside of a general election. This strong turnout signals a pivotal moment for the Greens as they prepare for upcoming council elections. Historically, such gatherings would attract only a handful of committed supporters, but the current atmosphere suggests a growing discontent with traditional leftist options.
The shift is emblematic of a broader trend: voters in Wales are increasingly turning to Plaid Cymru, while in Scotland, the SNP remains the preferred choice. In London, particularly in inner-city areas, the Green Party is capitalising on Labour’s declining support.
Labour’s Decline and the Green Emergence
The local political landscape has drastically changed since the last council elections in 2022, when Labour won every available seat. Fast forward to 2026, and the Green Party membership in Lewisham has skyrocketed from around 500 to approximately 2,500. This growth is a stark contrast to the party’s near-collapse just a year prior.
Harriet Lamb, CEO of the Green Party, remarked on the transformation, stating, “Six months ago, I wouldn’t have believed we could fight Lewisham.” Now, she sees this movement extending beyond the borough, encompassing cities such as Manchester and Birmingham.
The Influence of Leadership and Voter Sentiment
While Zack Polanski, the Green Party leader, has garnered attention for his charisma and media prowess, the grassroots support for the party is driven by dissatisfaction with Labour. Many attendees at the Lewisham event cited issues such as Labour’s handling of the Palestine crisis and local governance failures as key reasons for their shift in allegiance.
Local sentiments reflect a palpable disconnect between voters and Labour’s current policies, particularly among non-white communities who feel alienated by the party’s stance on key issues. As one resident expressed, “As a black man, I don’t feel safe,” illustrating the growing concern over Labour’s approach to policing and community welfare.
Challenges Ahead for the Greens
As the Green Party positions itself as a mainstream contender, it faces the challenge of managing rapid growth. Many activists are wary of the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on a single leader. Concerns have been raised about the party’s infrastructure and capability to support a burgeoning membership base, which could soon reach 200,000.
Polanski acknowledges these challenges, describing the situation as “like being a startup that’s been around a long time.” He emphasises the need for the party to balance immediate demands with long-term strategic planning, particularly as he prepares to unveil significant policy proposals in the coming months.
Why it Matters
The Green Party’s rise in Lewisham signifies a pivotal moment in British politics, challenging the traditional dominance of Labour among left-leaning voters. As disillusionment with established parties grows, the Greens’ ability to harness this momentum could reshape the political landscape, influencing not only local council elections but also broader electoral dynamics across the UK. The implications of this shift extend beyond mere numbers; they reflect a fundamental re-evaluation of core political values and priorities among the electorate.
