On 24th July, Swindon Conservatives Councillors proposed a cross party task group to provide all elected members with an opportunity to contribute, and the first meeting should occur within 4 weeks. Although Labour Councillors agreed to a cross party task group, no date for initial meeting has been set by the Labour Leadership.
Labour Councillors decided that the first meeting should occur in September, being the majority party, yet as of 22nd September, just three days days ahead of the next Full Council Meeting on 25th September.
July 24th 2025 Council Agenda:
Agenda for Council on Thursday, 24th July, 2025, 7.00 p.m.
During the debate, Cllr Dale Heenan warned “based on the track record of the Labour administration, the promised first meeting is not days away. It’ll probably require the Conservatives to raise the topic again at the next full council on the 25th of September and days later the meeting may be organised.”
Full Council – 24th July 2025 1hr 37 mins.
Cllr Dale Heenan’s statement has turned out to be true. As of Monday 22nd September, no meeting has been scheduled, and the next Full Council is Thursday 25th September.
Cllr Gary Sumner “The rejection of the 700 flats near the Oasis Leisure Centre for lack of parking, no education contributions and other key Policy failings presents a challenge. We remain committed to finding a sustainable way forward and have offered our willingness to work cross party numerous times over the last 2 1/2 years, only to be ignored. The Council must remain focused on delivering a revitalised Oasis while meeting the needs of Swindon’s growing population. “
Cllr Dale Heenan, “Labour Councillors scoffed when I warned that I did not believe the Oasis task group would meet in the next 2 1/2 months, and surprise surprise I was correct. I take no pleasure in saying I told you so. This is another avoidable shambles and those in charge can’t even organise a one hour kick off meeting over 45 working days. Did they all take the summer off? Cllr Sumner and I challenge the Council to hold the first Oasis task group meeting at 6pm next Tuesday. Gary and I will ensure Conservatives Councillors are ready to attend. The town needs a sense of urgency, and some ‘we can do it’ positive attitude.”
We approached Cllr Jim Robbins for a response and again, received no reply.
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