A strategy on devolution setting out how government will transfer power from Westminster to local authorities will be published in the next four weeks. Councils were asked to submit expressions of interest by the end of September but unfortunately, other than a couple of conversations I have had with Jim Robbins, there has been no cross-party discussion on such an important matter.
Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire Councils have revised their joint Expression of Interest and Swindon risks being left behind as these new deals are forged. What is clear is that with the new Government direction and the council’s worsening financial position, Swindon cannot continue as a stand-alone local authority.
A devolution deal with Wiltshire will help ensure the success of our defence, digital, life sciences and manufacturing businesses, and help to kick-start economic growth.
It is crucial that Swindon continues to talk with all its neighbours. We are the gateway into the South West and the Cotswolds, and in my view, the proposed ‘Heart of Wessex’ devolution deal is a compelling offer that could make a positive difference to the future of our town and surrounding villages.
It would surely be sensible to find out the pros and cons of all the options open to Swindon in order for there to be an informed cross-party discussion, and ideally a consensus. Swindon risks being left behind, or worse, we end up with a secret deal done behind closed doors and one in which we become a lesser player.
In my conversations with the Leader of Wiltshire council, it is transparently obvious that the expression of interest to Government for a joint devolution deal with Wiltshire and other natural partners ensures clear, accountable leadership to drive economic growth, improve public services, and invest in vital infrastructure across the region.
The existing cross-area working in Fire, Police, Health and Economic Development all point to the strengths of Swindon being part of the ‘Heart of Wessex’ devolution idea.
The proposal is not about councils merging because devolution is the handing down of powers and decision making from Central Government to new 'local partnerships' and Swindon’s Economic position would be a key contributor to a successful bid and a viable new devolved administrative area.
The other parties have extended an invitation to the current Swindon administration to join them, but bizarrely, they are currently focused on a ‘Thames Valley’ concept with Oxford, Slough and Berkshire.
If you ask the people of Swindon whether they feel part of Wiltshire or part of Slough, I am confident I know what the answer will be. After all, Swindon is already in Wiltshire.
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