The Labour Party has maintained control of Greenwich Council in the 2026 local elections, despite losing 12 seats to the Green Party. Greenwich has been a Labour stronghold since 1971 and will continue to be led by Labour until at least 2030, according to the results announced on 8 May 2026.
Greens Become Main Opposition
The Green Party made significant gains across the South East London borough, increasing their representation from two to 13 councillors. This makes them the new official opposition group on Greenwich Council, replacing the Conservatives.
Conservative and Reform Gains
The Conservatives, despite losing their opposition status, gained one seat and now hold six councillors. In a surprising development, Reform UK made its first breakthrough in Greenwich, with Paul Banks elected in Eltham Page ward.
Council Leader Responds
Greenwich Council Leader Anthony Okereke expressed mixed feelings about the results. “I’m excited. I want to get back and get the ball rolling and start delivering for residents, but I can’t pretend I’m not bruised,” he said. “It has been hard and I’ve lost colleagues across London and that is quite difficult.”
Okereke acknowledged the loss of “absolutely inspiring people who do a really good job” serving the communities of Greenwich. He emphasized his commitment to demonstrating Labour’s ability to change lives and deliver for residents.
Green Celebrations
The Greens celebrated their record tally of 13 councillors. Tamasin Rhymes, who was the sole Green councillor after winning a by-election last July, retained her seat in Shooters Hill. She thanked voters and campaigners, stating, “Our councillors will work hard to defend local services and make sure residents’ voices are heard in Greenwich. As a group we can’t wait to further improve residents’ lives and the local environment.”
Fellow Green councillor Stacy Smith added: “This election has been immensely exciting. Even before being elected we worked hard and are now ready to change the culture in the council. Right before the election, Labour councillors voted to cut scrutiny of the council through limiting public and members’ questions. We are going to work for more accountability and democracy for our residents.”
Conservative Perspective
Greenwich Conservative Leader Matt Hartley said the Tories were “thrilled” to have won six seats, doubling the party’s size since the last council election four years ago. “Residents in the south of the borough know that we will always put them first, and they’ve seen how hard Conservative councillors campaign on their behalf,” he said. “With our new larger group, we will be able to provide even stronger opposition to this failing Labour council, and we can’t wait to get started.”
The full results by ward are available in the widget below.
