A powerful day for climate and nature
On 9 July 2025 thousands gathered outside Parliament for one of the largest climate and nature lobbies in a decade.
The message was clear. People from across the country want serious action for a fairer greener future. From Hastings there was just one political representative present.
That was our very own Cllr Amanda Jobson for Gensing and member of the Green Party.
Amanda speaks with our local MP
As part of the day Amanda joined others from Hastings and Rye to speak directly with Helena Dollimore MP. The group shared local concerns and called on her to support action on warm homes, nature protection and support for communities most impacted by climate change. It was an important chance to push for joined up thinking between Parliament and our town.
The only councillor from Hastings to attend
Cllr Jobson stood alongside more than five thousand others in Westminster. From schoolchildren and community leaders to surfers and pensioners, the lobby brought together people from all walks of life. The day was full of energy, from creative street protest to packed public meetings and panel events.
“This was people power in action. It showed what is possible when we come together with a clear demand. Real support for real change.”
— Cllr Amanda Jobson
The national impact
Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a public statement in response. Campaigners welcomed it but made clear that action must follow words.
Greens will be watching closely to ensure promises are kept. That now looks unlikely, given the actions of the local Labour Party just days later at Hastings Borough Council.
Labour votes against nature motion
At the July council meeting, a Nature Emergency motion and crucial amendment brought by Green councillors Jo Walker and Amanda Jobson were voted against by every Labour councillor present. This included commitments to embed nature protection in decision making, support rewilding and invest in climate resilience.
Green Cllr Jo Walker has written to Helena Dollimore MP to challenge her party’s failure to back this plan at a local level. You can read more about that here.
What happens next
This was not a one off. From 13 to 20 September 2025 there will be a nationwide Lobby Week. Visit the Act Now, Change Forever website to join their mailing list.
Hastings Green Party will again be taking part. The climate and nature emergency is real and urgent and we will continue to act locally and nationally.
Greens lead by example
Hastings Green Party is proud that one of our elected councillors made the journey to Westminster. We believe in turning up, speaking truth to power and pushing for joined up action. If Labour will not lead on climate and nature, we will.
