THE co-leader of The Green Party has paid a visit to Basingstoke to learn more about concerns in the borough ahead of the local elections next week.

Adrian Ramsay visited the borough today (April 26) to meet with members of the North East Hampshire Green Party, the group met at the Sherfield Park Community Centre, before showing Mr Ramsey around the area.

Mr Ramsay is a British politician and is co-leader of the Green Party of England and Wales alongside Carla Denyer. He was previously the deputy leader of the party from 2008 to 2012 and he served as a Norwich City councillor from 2003 to 2011.

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Mr Ramsay said he was keen to meet volunteers and candidates working hard in the build-up to the local election on May 5 and the visit was part of many visits around Hampshire.

He said: “I am supporting our candidates across the country standing for local elections and around Hampshire. I am also showing support to our local volunteers.”

In particular, Mr Ramsay spent time discussing with Jonathan Jenkin, the candidate in Chineham, concerns of the party including new housing estates being constructed on greenfield sites whilst failing to meet acceptable carbon neutral standards.

In addition, they talked about concerns regarding inadequate recycling facilities and the need for a Green party voice on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Jonathan came second in the 2021 elections, so the group is hopeful he could win a seat this time.

He said he was pleased that Adrian had made time to come and visit Basingstoke and the group who have been "working hard".

He said: “I think it is just brilliant Adrian has come down here today because it really is not often you see a co-party leader come to visit.

“While he is here I am looking forward to showing him around some of the current developments found in Basingstoke.”

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Across England there are now over 460 elected Green councillors, a number that could rise when the elections take place next week.

Candiates up for election in Chineham: 

David Bell (Labour)

Jonathan Jenkin (Green Party)

Scott Lawrence (Lib Dems)

Jenny Vaux (Conservative)

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