Lambeth has elected its first Green Mayor, Councillor Paul Valentine, who took office on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Councillor Judy Best was appointed as Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Valentine, in his acceptance speech, expressed his excitement at being the first Green Mayor for the borough and pledged to represent all residents, aiming for consensus in council debates. He stated, I'm representing everyone in Lambeth, not just Greens, not just Labour, not just Lib Dems, everyone. And I want to kind of sort of channel that energy in this chamber as well, because we will. We will have robust debates as we should as politicians in this chamber. But at the same time, as much as possible, if we can find consensus, that is actually that's the sort of the vibe for use of a better word is what I'm going to aim for here.
This commitment to collaboration is particularly significant as the Lambeth council is in no overall control,
meaning no single party holds a majority of seats.
Beyond his focus on consensus, Mayor Valentine indicated a strong personal commitment to supporting arts and culture charities within Lambeth during his term. As an actor, tour guide, and someone who works front of house at the South Bank Centre, the arts are his bag.
He plans to champion arts and culture in the borough and has invited councillors to suggest potential beneficiaries.
Councillor Judy Best, who was appointed Deputy Mayor, brings a long-standing commitment to the Streatham and Lambeth community
and previous experience as Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Keita Ogden, who proposed her for the role, highlighted her deep care for everything from the state of our streets to the safety of our young people,
noting that community safety is a top priority for her.
Further details on the council's proceedings can be found in the Public reports pack and the Agenda frontsheet for the meeting.
