Council Leader hails devo deal as Cabinet backs Thames Valley EOI

This is the bold and confident prediction from Swindon Borough Council’s Leader, Councillor Jim Robbins, after the Council’s Cabinet last night (3 Dec) backed the submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) covering Swindon.

The proposed devolution deal, developed collaboratively by leaders and Chief Executives across the Thames Valley, could see Swindon benefit from billions of pounds in future economic growth.

The region, which would include Swindon, Oxfordshire and Berkshire, is already one of the most productive and innovative areas of the UK, powered by world-class research institutions, high-value industries and a highly-skilled workforce.

If agreed by government, devolution has the potential to unlock up to £18.7bn for the Thames Valley economy by 2040, generating £7bn in additional annual tax revenue and create new opportunities for residents and businesses.

Local councils would continue to deliver essential services for residents, but the MSA would take responsibility for the region’s shared strategic challenges, including major transport investment, infrastructure planning, skills development and economic growth.

The Government’s evolving devolution model increasingly channels funding for transport, housing, skills and innovation through combined authorities. Councillors noted that submitting an EOI ensures Swindon can help shape this next wave of devolution rather than risk missing out on major funding and investment decisions that will influence the region for decades.

Councillors’ endorsement of the EOI marks the start of a formal process to explore the opportunities offered by a Thames Valley MSA.

Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “I cannot over-emphasise what a significant opportunity this devolution deal is for the Borough.

“We already have one of the most productive economies in the country and enormous potential. We are bringing thousands of new highly-skilled jobs to the town through the investment in drone manufacturing by TEKEVER, STARK and others and there are more exciting announcements to come, but being part of the Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority will take us to the next level.

“I’d like to thank all of our councillors across our various political parties who have backed this deal and allowed us to take it to the next stage.

“I look forward to seeing these plans move forward in the new year so we can continue to put Swindon on the map.”

Submitting an EOI would signal Swindon’s readiness to begin structured discussions with the Government, while committing the Council to no final position. Any future deal would involve further engagement, evidence-gathering and full consultation with residents, businesses and partners before any decision is made.

It is anticipated that the EOI would be submitted to the Government by 19 December.