My name is Jessie Millner and I am the Green Party candidate for the St.

Full statement

Stephens Ward by-election to be held on Thursday 6th March 2025.

I am 29 years old and live in Canterbury, having been born and raised in Ashford. I work full-time as a client account manager in advertising.

If elected to Canterbury City Council my priorities would be firstly to serve the residents of St. Stephens in the same way that the other four Green Party councillors have supported their residents in Whitstable, Swalecliffe and Herne Bay – by seeking the views of locals, listening, responding to their concerns and taking action on issues that affect people. I am aware that St. Stephens is a vibrant community with many long-term residents but also home to many students, and as a local councillor I would aim to ensure the best quality of life for all people who live in this ward.

My second priority would be to hold the current Labour/Liberal Democrat-run Council to account. This council was elected in May 2023 and we have seen little progressive change from the previous Conservative-run administration. Their draft local plan, reissued last spring, has continued to allocate large, luxury housing developments on greenfield sites – such as the nearby Blean development - when the requirements of Canterbury are for smaller dwellings on brownfield sites. It completely fails to meet the needs of the elderly, renters and the less advantaged in our community. The Green Party councillors have been the only voices on the Council to challenge these basic principles.

Throughout my life, I’ve been actively involved in charity theatre productions across Kent, supporting meaningful causes while getting to meet so many interesting people in the area. In my day-job, I have developed skills in balancing perspectives, finding practical solutions, and advocating effectively for others, and I am hoping those skills would make me an effective and articulate representative for the community.

I’m passionate about bringing fresh ideas to Canterbury City Council and working towards a greener, stronger community. Whether it’s championing environmentally conscious policies, improving public services, or addressing the everyday challenges residents face, I am committed to making a positive difference.

Canterbury is a wonderful city and I’m privileged to live here, but it will only continue to be great if we work hard together. The Green Party has a vision to create a fairer, healthier future for everyone, and I’m proud to stand for this cause.