Politics & Council · Swindon
Swindon joins regional bid for Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Swindon has joined 12 other councils in the Thames Valley to pursue a new regional authority, with plans for a potential elected mayor and millions in growth funding.
Swindon is set to play a pivotal role in the future of regional governance as it joins a coalition of 13 councils across the Thames Valley in exploring the creation of a new Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA). The government has officially included the region in its programme for development, supported by a proposed allocation of 9.1 million pounds from the Good Growth Funds to help kickstart the initiative.
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey announced the move as part of the autumn budget, marking a significant shift toward devolution for the region. This strategic authority is intended to grant local leaders greater control over infrastructure, skills training, employment support, and the delivery of affordable housing.
What the change could mean
While the prospect of an elected mayor and a new regional board has been welcomed by many, the move has prompted calls for caution from local leadership. Leaders from Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Swindon confirmed their collective aspiration for the authority earlier this week, but the transition involves complex questions regarding regional boundaries and the integration of existing public services.
Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, has publicly raised concerns about the potential impact on public services, including the NHS, police, and fire and rescue departments. He emphasised that any final agreement must demonstrate clear, tangible benefits for residents and ensure that the new structure does not create unnecessary administrative complexity or financial strain on already stretched services.
The road ahead
The current phase involves councils developing a detailed proposal. A formal plan is expected to be shared in December, at which point local authorities will decide whether to proceed to a public consultation scheduled for early 2027. If approved and following a successful consultation, a formal proposal will be submitted to the government in the spring.
Should the process continue as planned, a shadow authority could be established by late 2027, with the first mayoral elections potentially taking place in 2028. Importantly, the establishment of an MSA would not replace existing local councils. Authorities such as Swindon Borough Council would remain responsible for day-to-day services including waste collection, social care, schools, and local planning.
The next steps will require significant engagement between local government, public service partners, and the public. As the councils prepare for the upcoming consultation, the priority remains ensuring that the new authority provides a sustainable model for regional growth without undermining the essential services upon which local communities rely.
Source: Oxfordshire County Council · View original