A debate is lingering over whether councils in Berkshire and Oxfordshire should join forces with Swindon in major changes to local government.
A debate is ongoing about whether councils in Berkshire and Oxfordshire should team up with Swindon for significant local government changes.
Leaders from both regions are in favour of merging to establish the Thames Valley Strategic Authority, which would feature an elected mayor overseeing key policies like planning, affordable housing, and infrastructure.
However, there’s contention about Swindon’s inclusion, discussed at a recent Berkshire Prosperity Board meeting with representatives from six councils.
Councils need to submit proposals for new strategic authorities to the Labour government next month. Simon Werner (Liberal Democrats, Pinkneys Green), leader of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, expressed doubts about reaching a consensus on whether Swindon should be part of the merger. He noted, “I’d have great difficulty putting anything that included Swindon,” highlighting the differing views across councils.
Dexter Smith (Conservative, Colnbrook & Poyle), leader of Slough Borough Council, insisted Berkshire and Oxfordshire councils should be central to the new authority. He and other leaders stressed the urgency of filing plans to the government.
Stephen Conway (Liberal Democrats, Twyford, Ruscombe & Hurst), leader of Wokingham Borough Council, cautioned, “There’ll certainly be less government money left if we leave it too late,” advocating for prompt action despite unresolved geographical concerns.
Mary Temperton (Labour, Great Hollands) echoed the need for timely submission to the government. Ultimately, council leaders agreed to express interest in the devolution programme, aiming to form a Thames Valley Strategic Authority led by an elected mayor.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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