Enfield Green Party have welcomed Charith Gunawardena as their first Councillor – representing Southgate ward – following his defection from Labour, adding to the 99 seats gained across England in the local elections of 6 May.
In his resignation statement, Cllr Gunawardena cited his passion to work hard and deliver a greener future for Southgate, standing by his election promises and continuing the fight for transparency over the proposed Meridian Water regeneration scheme that will deliver up to 10,000 new homes in the area. ‘As a member of the Green Party,’ stressed Gunawardena, ‘I will be better placed to scrutinise… and defend processes essential for preserving strong local democracy.’
Cllr Gunawardena also highlighted the work of Green Party co-leader Sian Berry and Caroline Russell on the London Assembly as a further reason behind his decision: ‘I have been so impressed – especially in relation to their work in housing – and their ability to work cross-party to deliver a stronger, greener London.’
In welcoming Cllr Gunawardena, Sian said: ‘I am thrilled to have Charith join our growing team of councillors across the country and in London.
‘Greens across our city will benefit from his experience and enthusiasm, and we will support his efforts to win greater transparency in major developments and council scrutiny across all issues affecting our citizens.’