Residents across Wroughton and Wichelstowe are being asked to have their say on the future of the parish as work begins on a new ten-year Neighbourhood Plan.
Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council has launched a major public survey which will help shape the Neighbourhood Plan for 2026 to 2036.
The plan will set out the community’s vision for the parish and will play a role in future planning decisions, making the survey an opportunity for residents to influence what happens locally over the next decade.
Residents are being asked for their views on a wide range of issues, including housing, transport, infrastructure, local services, community facilities, the environment and green spaces.
Cllr Holly Woodward, Chair of the parish council’s Planning & Highways Committee, said the survey was an important opportunity for residents to have a direct say in the area’s future.
“This is a hugely important opportunity for everyone in our community to have a direct say in the future of our parish,” she said.
“Whether you’ve lived here for decades or have only recently moved to the parish, your views matter. We want to hear from as many people as possible so that our Neighbourhood Plan genuinely reflects the needs, aspirations and priorities of the whole community.”
Paper copies of the survey will be delivered to households across the parish over the coming week.
Completed forms can be returned using special collection boxes at:
- Ellendune Community Centre, Barrett Way, Wroughton, SN4 9LW
- Waitrose Shopping Centre, Mill Lane, Wichelstowe, SN1 7BX
An online version is also available for residents who would prefer to complete the survey digitally.
Wroughton and Wichelstowe is the largest parish in Swindon by geographical area. Since its existing Neighbourhood Plan was adopted in 2016, the area has seen considerable change, including new housing, population growth and increasing pressure on infrastructure and local services.
The new plan will cover the period to 2036 and, once adopted, will form part of the statutory development process. It will therefore be taken into account when planning applications are considered.
Cllr John Hewer, Chair of Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council, said the next decade would bring both opportunities and challenges.
“We don’t want to make assumptions about what people think. We want to hear directly from people of every age and every background in order to ensure that our new Neighbourhood Plan reflects the views of the people who know our parish best,” he said.
“Every single survey response will contribute to building a clear picture of what matters most to residents in Wroughton and Wichelstowe.”
Residents have until Monday 21 September 2026 to complete the survey.
The parish council will then analyse the responses and share the findings with residents as work on the new Neighbourhood Plan progresses.
