The Labour Party has retained control of Camden Council in the 2026 local elections, but suffered a significant blow as Council Leader Richard Olszewski lost his seat amid a surge in support for the Green Party.
Green Party Surge Reshapes Camden Council
The Green Party increased its representation from one to 11 councillors, making it the largest opposition group on the council. Labour's majority was slashed to 30 seats, down 17 from the 2022 elections. The Liberal Democrats also made gains, securing 10 seats, while the Conservatives won three seats and the Camden People's Alliance took one seat in St Pancras and Somers Town.
Council Leader Defeated in Holborn & St Pancras
Council Leader Richard Olszewski, who had switched from Fortune Green to the perceived safer seat of Holborn and Covent Garden, was defeated by the Green Party, finishing in sixth place. The Local Democracy Reporting Service has approached Mr. Olszewski and Camden Labour for comment.
Greens Promise to Hold Labour Accountable
Lorna Jane Russell, previously the sole Green councillor in Camden, said: "It's incredible. The Green Party is now the official opposition, to go from one to 11 is amazing. I have every faith that we will do people proud and show them what Green councillors can do." She added: "With a reduced majority and what will be a new leader, it's a good opportunity for Labour to reflect on the issues and priorities that matter most to communities: housing repairs, overdevelopment, green issues, and to ground them a little bit more in the grassroots. We will keep them on their toes."
Labour Losses Across London
While Labour held on in Camden, the party suffered significant losses across London, losing overall control in Brent and losing Westminster to the Conservatives. Camden has been a Labour stronghold for most of the last five decades, and the losses will resonate with Labour MPs representing the borough, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
