The Green Party of England and Wales has reached record levels of support both nationally and locally — with Stroud District achieving its highest-ever membership following the election of Zack Polanski as party leader.
As of 27 October 2025, the national party’s membership has soared to 150,000, overtaking the Conservatives’ 125,000 members and drawing level with Labour in opinion polls — particularly among younger voters.
(Source: Find Out Now – Voting Intention, 15 October 2025)
In Stroud District, there are now 905 paid-up Green Party members, a 52% increase compared with October 2024. Remarkably, membership has grown 46% in the past month alone, with 285 new members joining in October.
Local Party Coordinator Adrian Oldman said: “Our growth over the past year has been fuelled by disenchantment with the Labour government’s shift to the right, and accelerated by Zack’s inspiring leadership campaign and election as party leader. He’s an articulate, intelligent, compassionate man — and a genuinely nice guy, as those who met him during his visit to Stroud last November will confirm.”
Mr Oldman added that the Green surge is not limited to membership numbers, but also reflected in a steady stream of Labour councillors defecting to the Greens.
“Most recently, three Labour councillors in Swindon crossed the floor to join the Greens on 22 October. Here in Stroud, former Labour councillors Jessie Hoskin, Robin Layfield, and Helen Fenton have done the same.”
He said the trend is driven by a younger, more progressive electorate:“We’re seeing a lot of young people among our new members, bringing ideas, energy and a commitment to a fairer, greener society. With the voting age expected to be lowered to 16 before the next general election, and as older Conservative and Reform voters age out of the electorate, the Green vote share is likely to grow even faster.”
Tom, 17, a student at Stroud High School, said he joined after becoming disillusioned with Labour’s rightward drift: “The Greens’ support for trans rights and inclusive politics really speaks to me. Seeing Carla Denyer debate earlier this year and Zack Polanski’s leadership since then convinced me that the Greens are the future. They actually give young people hope.”
Matt, another new member, said: “I’ve been on the cusp for a while, but Zack’s media appearances really stood out. I’m tired of people being taken in by Reform — the Greens offer hope and honesty.”
Joanna, a long-time environmental advocate from Stroud, said she finally joined because of the party’s renewed optimism: “Zack’s collaborative, positive leadership reminded me why activism matters. The Greens reflect my Quaker values of equality and compassion. I’m proud to be part of a movement that stands up for others and believes real change is possible.”
Angie, from Uplands, rejoined after several years away: “My heart’s always been Green, but I used to vote tactically. Now I feel genuine hope that the Greens can be a serious challenge to Labour and Reform. Zack’s approach has reignited my belief in what’s possible.”
Bill, 64, a civil servant from Wotton-under-Edge, said: “I was a long-time Lib Dem voter, but Zack’s leadership convinced me it’s time to go Green. He’s the first politician I’ve seen who can take the fight to climate deniers and Reform UK.”
David, 65, an environmental policy advisor from Chalford, added: “We’re at a crossroads — it’s time to support a movement that puts fairness and sustainability first, for current and future generations.”
Kamal, from Paganhill, said he joined out of both conviction and concern: “As a person of colour, I’ve been horrified by Labour’s regressive turn and the rise of far-right rhetoric. Zack Polanski’s bold leadership has been a breath of fresh air. Finally, someone is listening to the 99%.”
Mr Oldman concluded: “People are joining the Greens because they want integrity, compassion and meaningful change. Zack’s leadership has made that possible — and Stroud is proud to be part of this national Green wave.”
