Politics & Council · Swindon
Swindon residents urged to have their say on 20-year growth plan
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Swindon Borough Council has opened the final consultation stage for its Local Plan 2043, inviting public feedback on its vision for future development.
Swindon residents, local businesses and community groups are being invited to share their views on the future of the borough as Swindon Borough Council launches the final consultation stage for its Local Plan 2043. This document serves as the council's long-term blueprint for how the town will grow and evolve over the next two decades.
A central pillar of the proposed plan is a strategic shift towards brownfield site development. The council is aiming to prioritise the construction of thousands of new homes on previously developed land within the town, a move intended to shape housing growth while protecting other areas.
The current phase, known as the Regulation 19 publication stage, represents the final opportunity for the public to scrutinise the proposals before they are submitted to the Secretary of State for independent examination. The council has explicitly asked for feedback on whether the draft plan is legally compliant, grounded in solid evidence, and capable of delivering the goals it outlines.
Those wishing to participate have until 7 November 2026 to submit their representations. The council notes that at this specific stage, responses should focus on the technical soundness and legal compliance of the document rather than general preferences.
How to view and comment
Residents can review the full draft Local Plan and associated documents online via the official Swindon Borough Council website. For those who prefer to view hard copies, the documents are available at the Civic Offices and at various libraries across the town.
Submissions can be made in the following ways:
Online: By using the official consultation form available on the council's website.
Email: By sending the completed form to swindonlocalplan2043@swindon.gov.uk.
Post: By sending written representations to the council offices.
Once the consultation closes, the council will collate all responses and submit them alongside the plan to the Secretary of State. An appointed Planning Inspector will then examine the proposals through written representations and potential public hearings. Should the Inspector suggest any major modifications, these would be subject to a further round of public consultation.
The council has confirmed that all comments submitted during this stage will be made publicly available, including the name of the individual or organisation providing the feedback.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Politics · View original