The Conservative Group on Swindon Borough Council has announced plans to amend the Labour administration’s proposed budget, outlining what it describes as a “credible, serious alternative” focused on savings and frontline protection.
The proposals will be presented as an amendment at the next Full Council meeting at Euclid Street.
Key highlights of the alternative budget
The Conservatives say they have identified £5.2m in savings while protecting key services. Their proposals include:
-
Frontline protection: Removing 135 vacant roles while protecting social workers and waste service operators.
-
Reorganisation: Capping management layers at four between frontline staff and the Chief Executive, compared with Labour’s proposed maximum of seven.
-
Net Zero savings: Ending the use of vegetable oil as vehicle fuel, saving an estimated £150,000.
Proposed benefits to residents
The group says savings would allow investment in visible and practical improvements, including:
-
Investment in country parks, rangers and new play areas.
-
Refurbishment of the Wyvern Theatre to enhance customer experience while a long-term entertainment centre is delivered at MECA Swindon.
-
A pilot scheme offering 30 minutes of free parking in the town centre.
-
A “zero tolerance” approach to fly-tipping, alongside increased removal of litter, weeds and graffiti.
-
Creation of a Swindon “Enterprise Zone” to support business growth and relocation.
Conservative response
Councillor Dale Heenan, Shadow Cabinet Member for Finance, said the alternative budget identifies where spending can be reduced while protecting services residents value, arguing that council spending has risen significantly in recent years.
He said the proposals focus on “tangible, specific actions” that are costed and deliverable, including investment in parks and play areas, refurbishment of the Wyvern Theatre and visible improvements to town maintenance.
Councillor Gary Sumner criticised what he described as financial mismanagement over the past three years, pointing to reported overspends and reliance on government support. He said the Conservative amendment offers a different direction and a willingness to make difficult decisions.
The Conservative Group is calling on councillors from all parties to back the amendment, saying the measures are designed to help ensure Swindon remains financially viable and economically competitive.
