A byelection is anticipated in Long Ashton, North Somerset, after Green Party councillor Stuart McQuillan announced his resignation, citing his family’s imminent move out of the area. McQuillan has served as one of Long Ashton’s two representatives on the North Somerset Council since 2019.
Reflecting on his tenure, McQuillan expressed pride in his contributions over the past six years and the growth of the Green Party in the region, which now boasts eight councillors on the council. “It’s been remarkable to witness Green Party membership surge—from 70,000 to 76,000 members just last week—as more residents recognize the tangible impact we have on their communities,” he said. He also highlighted upcoming social events for those interested in engaging with the party, including one at the Old Library in Long Ashton on Saturday from 3pm to 5pm.
Among McQuillan’s notable achievements are the introduction of a residents’ parking scheme in Leigh Woods, securing a new home for the Long Ashton Scouts, opposing the annexation of the Elms by Nailsea Town Council, and advocating for the community against expansions such as the Bristol Airport project and development of the EPIC HQ. “Standing with the communities I represent has been a privilege, even when outcomes were not always in our favor,” he noted.
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As he prepares to step down, McQuillan stressed the importance of local representation. “Residents deserve a councillor who lives locally and can dedicate themselves fully to the responsibility,” he stated.
He has endorsed Mike Dunn, a Long Ashton Parish Councillor and respected local campaigner, as the Green Party candidate for the forthcoming byelection. “I have worked closely with Mike for several years and am confident he possesses the integrity, dedication, and empathy needed to serve our community effectively,” McQuillan added.
McQuillan and Liberal Democrat Ash Cartman originally unseated the village’s two Conservative councillors in 2019. Both Greens and Liberal Democrats ran single candidates for their two-seat ward, and in the 2023 elections, both were re-elected with increased majorities. Cartman continues to serve as Long Ashton’s other councillor.
At present, the North Somerset Council comprises 50 seats, with a coalition excluding Conservatives and Reform UK. Prior to McQuillan’s resignation, the council included 12 Conservatives, 10 Labour councillors, eight Greens, nine Liberal Democrats, three Portishead Independents, one Reform UK councillor, and six Independents who form various group alliances.
The date for the Long Ashton byelection has yet to be announced.