Politics & Council · Swindon
Swindon councillors consider 10 per cent basic allowance increase
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Swindon Borough Council is set to debate a proposed 10 per cent increase to the basic allowance for elected members, alongside wider changes to special responsibility payments.
Swindon Borough Council is set to consider a proposal that could see the basic allowance for local councillors increase by more than 10 per cent. The potential rise is part of a comprehensive review of the council's remuneration scheme for the 2026/27 to 2029/30 municipal years.
Under the recommendations put forward by the Independent Remuneration Panel (IRP), the basic allowance for councillors would rise from its current level of £9,741.63 to £10,715.79 for the 2026/2027 period. This figure is designed to be index-linked to the annual local government officer pay settlement for the following four years, potentially pushing the total increase for the first year to 13.3 per cent when combined with the projected officer pay award.
The IRP, which has provided independent oversight since 2001, stated that the current level of remuneration for Swindon councillors is considered modest relative to the time and responsibility required. The panel warned that failing to adjust allowances could act as a disincentive for citizens considering standing for election and might hinder the retention of experienced members.
Evidence presented to the cabinet highlighted that neighbouring Wiltshire Council provides significantly higher allowances, which the panel suggested could discourage individuals from seeking public office in Swindon. The cabinet is scheduled to review these recommendations on Thursday, October 8, with a final decision resting with the full council.
Beyond the basic allowance, the panel has suggested a significant restructuring of special responsibility payments. Most committee chairs currently receive an allowance of £7,306.22, which the panel recommends reducing to £2,678.95, arguing that the responsibilities do not justify the current higher rate. However, exemptions are proposed for the chairs of the licensing and planning committees.
The review also proposed the removal of specific allowances, including payments for the Chair and co-opted members of the Health and Wellbeing Board, and the chair of the Wiltshire Police and Crime Panel, as the latter is funded by Wiltshire Council via the Home Office.
Changes to councillor travel rates are also under consideration, aiming to align them with those offered to council officers. The proposed shift would see car mileage rates rise from 45p to 55p per mile, and motorcycle rates increase from 16.5p to 24p per mile. Conversely, the rate for pedal cycles would decrease from 30p to 20p per mile. The panel confirmed that any approved increases would be managed within the council's existing budget.
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