As Leader of the Isle of Man Green Party, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Andrew Bentley as finalises his role as Douglas Councillor. Andrew’s long-standing commitment to our island’s environment and community has been nothing short of inspirational. For years, he has been the steady hand and passionate voice championing green initiatives in Douglas, from grassroots campaigns to council chambers, always striving to make our city and island a better place. We celebrate Andrew’s efforts and achievements during his term as Councillor, honouring his legacy of service without saying goodbye, because we know his dedication to a greener Isle of Man will continue in other ways.
A Founding Member and Visionary Leader
Andrew’s impact on Manx politics began even before he took public office. As a co-founder of the Isle of Man Green Party in 2016, he helped build our movement from the ground up . His vision and hard work paid off when he ran the party’s first successful election campaign, becoming the first Green Party candidate elected to Douglas Borough Council in 2018 . Since then, Andrew has served with distinction, including five and a half years as Chair of our party’s Executive Committee . In that role he was, as was aptly said, a “consistent presence of thoughtful and wise leadership” for our party and community . His guidance and strategic thinking have been instrumental in turning the Green Party from a fledgling group into a respected voice in local politics. We in the party have all benefited from Andrew’s experience, sincerity, and unwavering commitment to our core values.
Championing Environmental Initiatives
In Douglas Council, Andrew made environmental advocacy the heart of his work. He has never been afraid to lead by example and push for change. As a member of the Council’s Environment and Services Committee, he highlighted the need to improve Douglas’s recycling and waste management, noting that the island’s recycling rates were “very poor” and urging greater public uptake . He didn’t just talk about reducing waste; he personally walked the walk. In July 2019, Andrew took on the Plastic Free July challenge and went an entire month without single-use plastics, proving to himself and others that it was “surprisingly easy” to live more sustainably . This personal initiative helped raise awareness about cutting down plastic waste and demonstrated Andrew’s hands-on approach to protecting our environment.
Andrew also spearheaded innovative conservation efforts through Douglas Council. Notably, he championed the Plan Bee initiative, a project that left certain grass verges around Douglas uncut to create “pollinator pit-stops” for bees and other vital insects . He understood that helping pollinators thrive would benefit the wider ecosystem, from healthier trees to more birds and hedgehogs. When some were unsure about the sight of wild grassy patches in our town, Andrew took the time to explain that this was intentional care for nature, not neglect. “This is not the council just abandoning the space,” he clarified, rather, “this is actually to create an environment which is good for the insects which feed our wildlife… and pollinate plants” . Thanks to his advocacy, Plan Bee has not only provided habitats for pollinators but also started conversations about biodiversity in urban spaces. Andrew’s ability to combine practical action with public education on issues like these has been a hallmark of his councillor tenure.
Building Community and Sustainability in Douglas
Beyond green policies, Andrew has worked tirelessly to strengthen the community in Douglas through sustainable initiatives. One shining example is the North Quay local produce markets that he helped conceive and organize. Andrew was instrumental in launching this bi-weekly outdoor food market on Douglas’s North Quay, which showcases our island’s diverse local produce and foods . He recognized that supporting local farmers and artisans not only reduces carbon footprint but also revitalizes our community spirit. The market has quickly become a vibrant fixture in the city’s life. Businesses along the quay have been delighted with the boost in foot traffic and the lively atmosphere on market days, a direct result of Andrew’s efforts to bring local shoppers and vendors together . By raising the profile of our exceptional local produce and highlighting the importance of food sustainability, Andrew has left a lasting impact on how we shop, eat, and connect as a community . The North Quay Food Market was more than a successful event; it’s part of Andrew’s living legacy in Douglas, a reminder that economic vitality and environmental ideals can go hand in hand.
Whether it was organizing community beach clean-ups, promoting cycling and public transport, or simply listening to residents’ ideas for a greener town, Andrew has always approached community initiatives with enthusiasm and empathy. He has shown that building a sustainable city is as much about people as it is about policies. His friendly presence at local events and his openness to collaboration have empowered many in Douglas to get involved and make their voices heard.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
On behalf of the Isle of Man Green Party and the Douglas community, I want to say huge thank you to Andrew Bentley for everything he has accomplished during his term as Councillor. Andrew, your time on Douglas Council has been defined by energy, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. You have proved that one dedicated person can spark significant change, from reducing plastic waste and protecting pollinators, to enlivening our local economy with sustainable ideas. Douglas is a greener, more forward-thinking place today because of your service.
I know that even as he completes his service on the Douglas Council, he will continue to lend his wisdom, creativity, and passion to the causes he believes in.
Andrew, thank you for your dedication and leadership. Your Green Party family and your community are proud of all you’ve achieved. Here’s to the lasting legacy you’ve built and to the positive change you will undoubtedly continue to inspire in the years ahead. Gura mie eu, Andrew, thank you, for everything.
Lamara Craine
Isle of Man Green Party Leader
