Swindon councillors are set to debate a major devolution proposal that could reshape the borough’s economic landscape for decades to come. The plan, described by local leaders as a once-in-a-generation opportunity, would see Swindon join forces with neighbouring authorities across the Thames Valley to create a new Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA).
If progressed, the arrangement would place greater decision-making power into regional hands, strengthening the area’s influence over funding for transport, housing, skills and wider economic development. Crucially, it would also position Swindon to compete for billions of pounds channelled through devolved areas under the Government’s emerging framework.
Over recent months, senior figures from councils across Swindon, Oxfordshire and Berkshire have been quietly shaping the outline of what such an authority could look like. The ambition is clear: to harness the combined strength of one of the UK’s most productive and innovation-led regions.
The Thames Valley economy, home to world-leading research institutions, advanced manufacturing, and a highly skilled workforce, already plays a significant national role. Supporters of the MSA say a formal partnership could unlock faster infrastructure improvements, better align skills training with industry needs, and give the region a stronger collective voice.
Despite the scale of the proposal, local services would continue to be delivered by existing councils. The combined authority would instead focus on long-term strategic issues, cross-border collaboration and major investment programmes.
A detailed discussion will take place at Full Council tomorrow (27 November), followed by scrutiny at next Monday’s committee meeting (1 December). Cabinet members are expected to decide on 3 December whether to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Government.
Submitting an EOI would not commit Swindon to joining the new body but would open formal discussions and allow for wider engagement with residents, businesses and partners.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, believes the borough must act decisively to secure its future prosperity.
He said:
“This is about ensuring Swindon has a seat at the table. Our economy is dynamic and fast-moving, from our manufacturing base to exciting developments like STARK’s new drone facility. But major funding streams increasingly favour devolved regions, and we cannot afford to fall behind.
“The Thames Valley is already one of the UK’s economic engines. Linking our strengths with those of Oxfordshire and Berkshire creates a more connected region with deeper labour markets and better opportunities for innovation. Importantly, this does not remove local control. Swindon will continue to run the services residents depend on.
“Submitting an Expression of Interest simply allows us to explore the detail and to speak with the public. It means being part of the national conversation, not standing on the sidelines.”
If councillors give the go-ahead, the EOI would be submitted by 19 December 2025, marking the first step in what could become one of the most significant governance changes in Swindon’s recent history.
