6th April 2008 updated 15th April 2008

The Greens go into the District Council elections in buoyant mood, predicting that they could win a number of seats.

A third of the seats are up for re-election, and Green Party agent John Marjoram says it is the first year that the local party has put up a full slate of 17 candidates, something equalled this time only by the Tories.

More info here 

Eleven women are standing for the Greens and a very large majority of their candidates live in the wards that they wish to represent. John Marjoram commented: “How can a person who lives in, for example, Cranham possibly represent voters who live in Rodborough? It just proves that both Labour and the Conservatives are finding it difficult to put up local candidates - they are tired politicians, running out of steam.”

One of the most interesting seats to watch will be Nailsworth where there will be a five-cornered fight for the seat. The Conservatives currently hold all three Council seats in this ward. Green party candidate Fi Macmillan, who lives in the ward, said, “We really need a wider representation of people’s interests here. In last May's election the Greens came within 13 votes of winning Nailsworth, and people are increasingly seeing  that only the Green Party can offer what they want. We have a great opportunity to win this time."

Election statement to local papers:

The five Greens on Stroud District Council are highly respected for their achievements. These include working to protect local health services, opposing the Government’s closure of Post Offices and seeking changes in Council policy to save energy costs and tackle climate change. We want small businesses and our local communities to thrive, an efficient use of Council resources and improvements to recycling. We will work for 50% of new housing developments to be truly affordable or social housing, and for 20 mph residential speed limits to cut casualties and make our streets more pleasant. We say “No” to a huge waste incinerator in the District. Greens listen and work with communities to solve problems. We urgently need more Green voices on the Council to work to build a better Stroud District and a stronger future for us all. Please consider voting Green: it will make a difference. For more details see: www.glosgreenparty.org.uk

Gwen Belcher, Deputy Leader, Green party group, Stroud District Council