The Green Party’s Liam Shrivastava has achieved a historic win in Lewisham, becoming the new mayor and ending Labour’s long-standing dominance in the area.
Liam Shrivastava’s Victory
Shrivastava garnered a total of 35,265 votes, which is 40.4% of the electoral support. His nearest rival, Labour, received 30,374 votes, accounting for 34.8% of the total. This election marks a pivotal moment for Lewisham and reflects a significant swing from Labour to the Green Party.
Election Results Overview
- Liam Shrivastava (Green Party): 35,265 votes (40.4%)
- Labour: 30,374 votes (34.8%)
- Reform UK: 7,288 votes (8.4%)
- Liberal Democrats: 7.3%
- Conservatives: 5.3%
- Independent Candidate: 2.5%
Significance of the Win
This election result signifies a major shift in the political landscape of Lewisham, a borough that has been under Labour control for many years. The area has had a directly elected mayor since 2002, with the outgoing mayor, Brenda Dacres, having occupied the position after winning a by-election in 2024.
Impact on Local Governance
The mayoral role comes with key responsibilities, including executive powers over housing, planning, and council spending. With significant regeneration projects underway in Deptford, Lewisham town centre, and Catford, housing and development are critical issues for local voters.
Shrivastava’s election is a noteworthy gain for the Green Party in South East London, showcasing a shift in voter sentiment and priorities in the borough. As a councillor for New Cross Gate and a member of the Lewisham Green Party Group, Shrivastava is now positioned to influence the future development and governance of Lewisham.
