Stephen Ferguson to Stand as Green Party Candidate After Eight Years as Independent

Stephen Ferguson has announced he will stand as a Green Party candidate in the May local elections, bringing to an end eight years of representing St Neots as an independent politician.

Ferguson has held a number of senior roles in local government during that time, including serving twice as Mayor of St Neots, twice as Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, and most recently as a Cabinet member at Huntingdonshire District Council, a position he has held for the past four years.

Speaking about his decision, Ferguson said he has always sought to represent the interests of St Neots and its residents, campaigning on issues such as social justice, fairer taxation, access to housing and what he described as a “pragmatic, real-world approach” to environmental sustainability.

He said his experience standing as an independent candidate in the 2024 General Election played a key role in his decision to join a political party, describing it as demonstrating the limitations faced by independents when competing against national party organisations.

Ferguson also pointed to wider political and economic pressures, including the cost-of-living crisis and the rise of populist politics, as factors influencing his move. He said he believes the Green Party best reflects his values and offers what he described as “real hope” in addressing those challenges.

Despite joining a party, Ferguson said his approach to decision-making would not change. He stressed that his votes and actions would continue to be guided by principle and the interests of local residents, rather than party ideology. He highlighted the Green Party’s policy of not imposing a party whip as an important factor in his decision.

Ferguson said the move had not been taken lightly and was rooted in what he described as a continued sense of responsibility to the people of St Neots. He added that he remains committed to serving the town and standing up for fairness, dignity and long-term sustainability.

Ferguson will stand as a Green Party candidate in the upcoming May elections.