Rachel Millward wins Green nomination for Mayor of Sussex & Brighton

Rachel Millward has been chosen by Green Party members to lead the party’s campaign to become the first directly elected Mayor of Sussex and Brighton, ahead of the May 2026 election.

Describing the nomination as "an honour,” Millward said she is ready to present “a bold, Green vision rooted in nature, culture and community for Sussex’s future.”

A cultural leader and environmental campaigner, Millward was selected following her election as one of the party’s two national deputy leaders earlier this year. She thanked Green party members across Sussex for “their support and energy in shaping a people-powered campaign to defend nature and restore trust in politics.”

Her campaign will focus on affordable housing, local resilience, climate action, and a more joined-up approach to public services across the county.

“Now is the time to unite against fear and division, to defend nature and to fill our communities with hope” 

Millward has framed the contest as an opportunity to “rethink how Sussex grows and thrives,” highlighting the need for better use of council-owned commercial space, stronger rural transport links, and investment in community-based climate solutions.

Launching the campaign this autumn, Millward has made a direct appeal for supporters to get involved: “I will work as hard as I can to deliver a Green mayor who listens to every part of Sussex; from our cities and towns to our villages and coasts. That work starts now.”

About the candidate

Rachel Millward grew up in the West Midlands and now lives in Hartfield, East Sussex with her family. She is co-leader of Wealden District Council, where she has held portfolios in housing and community services, and is currently deputy leader of the Green Party of England and Wales.

Before entering politics, Millward founded and directed Birds Eye View, the UK’s first international women’s film festival (now Reclaim the Frame), and later led The Nest Collective, a live music and nature organisation. She is a graduate of St Hugh’s College, Oxford, and holds a master’s degree in Gender and Development from the University of Cape Town.

🔗 Rachel Millward’s campaign on X

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