In a series of community-driven events, Swindon Borough Council is encouraging residents to come forward, share their thoughts, and help shape the future of Swindon’s town centre.
Following on from earlier sessions, these new gatherings will run through November, offering local people a chance to discuss the Council’s work in building a vibrant, fairer, and greener Swindon, all while navigating the financial challenges faced by local authorities.
The “Let’s Talk Swindon” events aim to bring residents together with Council leaders to address key aspects of the Swindon Plan, finalised earlier this summer. Attendees will hear about the Council’s vision for Swindon, which includes transforming the town centre into a space not just for retail but also for living, working, and socialising. The Council will present a set of new ambitions developed in collaboration with private, public, and voluntary sector partners to guide this transition.
Council Leader, Councillor Jim Robbins, expressed the importance of community engagement, saying, “We are committed to hearing what our residents have to say on the work we are doing to benefit the Borough. Engaging with local communities is essential, which is why we’re holding more ‘Let’s Talk Swindon’ sessions throughout November. Despite financial constraints, we remain ambitious for Swindon. These sessions will allow us to listen to what matters most to residents, especially in terms of revitalising the town centre. I look forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts and encourage as many people as possible to attend.”
Residents will also have the opportunity to view the results of the 2024 Swindon Resident Survey, conducted over the summer and gathering over 4,400 responses. The survey provides valuable insights into the priorities and concerns of locals, helping to shape future initiatives.
Three main events will take place, hosted by Council Leader Jim Robbins and Chief Executive Samantha Mowbray:
- Tuesday, 19 November at New College, SN3 1AH (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, arrival from 6 pm)
- Monday, 25 November at Central Library, SN1 1QG (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, arrival from 6 pm)
- Saturday, 30 November at North Swindon Library, SN25 4AN (2:30 pm – 4:30 pm, arrival from 2 pm)
To reserve a place, residents can search “Let’s Talk Swindon” on the Council’s website or visit www.swindon.gov.uk/letstalkswindon.
