The future is bright for Swindon, even as the town’s Honda factory closes its doors after 35 years of car production. That is the clear message from senior leaders at Swindon Borough Council and the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership. While there is sadness about the ending of one chapter and the loss of thousands of high-skilled, well-paid jobs, there is optimism that with the site already bought, there are better times ahead. Deputy leader of Swindon Borough Council Gary Sumner said: “It will be a very sad day when Honda closes because the company has been such a big part of Swindon’s history over the last three decades. Most people here will know someone who has worked at the factory during that time.
But he has a new deputy leader. The 36-strong group of Conservative councillors had two decisions to make just three days after a stunning election in last week. The group elects its leaders every year- Coun Renard had already put his name forward to continue for a ninth year – but former deputy leader Russell Holland was also standing for the top job. Coun Holland was standing on a joint ticket with fellow cabinet member Gary Sumner who stood for deputy leader. His opponent was Dale Heenan, another member of Coun Renard’s cabinet. Coun Renard and then Coun Sumner were elected.
UNCERTAINTY still surrounds the future of the former Toys R Us store – almost three years after the retailer s collapse. The Oxford Road site which once proved a huge draw for families and children from across the county and beyond lies abandoned and empty. A plan for Home Bargains to replace it appears to have stalled over the budget store s bid to sell food and drink – as well as access concerns. In October 2019 a planning application was launched by the company to take over the unit close to the White Hart Roundabout. Home Bargains parent company TJ Morris Ltd said the move would create as many as 90 jobs but would not comment when the Adver asked for an update this week.
Councillor Gary Sumner at the Wichelstowe development
SWINDON is in the spotlight because not enough houses have been built in the borough in recent years. That was the claim from cabinet member for strategic infrastructure, planning and transport councillor Gary Sumner when he made a report to the scrutiny committee this week. He said the government is watching the town over its housebuilding figures but added the council still has the ability to control development. Asked by committee vice-chairman Steve Weisinger when the authority would have its three and five-year housing supply allocation of land ready, Coun Sumner said the latter would be allocated as soon as the new draft Local Plan is approved.