Politicsdomestic
Swindon left out of Thames Valley devolution plans
Plans to create a large combined authority in the Thames Valley are currently stalling due to a political disagreement over geography and inclusion. While the UK government pushes for larger combined authorities led by mayors to unlock regional growth, leaders in Oxfordshire and Berkshire are resisting the inclusion of Swindon. Swindon Borough Council leader Gary Sumner has likened the exclusion to being left off a guest list by the popular kids. Conversely, opposing local leaders argue that Swindon does not geographically fit within the Thames Valley and that boundary arrangements should remain tied to Wiltshire.