04/06/10 - Swindon Advertiser Weekly Article

Next week, Swindon Borough Council's Cabinet will be considering a long-term cut in the cost of car parking in the town centre and Old Town.  This is fantastic news.  It's a bold and innovative move which I fully support, and will be a real boost to the town centre.  Not only will it help existing retailers, but it'll send a clear signal to developers that we take the Swindon seriously.  The town centre is ripe for regeneration, and this move should really help that process.  And let's not forget the welcome boost for Old Town as well.  The unique mix of smaller shops, bars and restaurants is a huge asset to Swindon, so let's hope this initiative gives them a much-needed leg-up.

It's extremely disappointing that the Big Screen in Swindon Town Centre won't be showing the World Cup.   As local taxpayers, we all contribute to the running costs of the screen as well as to the policing of events where large crowds are expected.   This would have been a golden opportunity to bring people together to celebrate the colour, passion and vibrancy of the greatest sporting event in the world.   Whatever the reason for the decision, local residents deserve some answers.  I'll be making sure we get those answers and seeing if there's any way we can overturn this decision.  Otherwise,  Swindon looks like scoring a massive PR own goal.

Speaking of football, following on from the Wembley disappointment I wanted to pay one more tribute to Swindon Town for getting so far.  It's such a shame that they fell at the final hurdle, but I'm really optimistic we can go all the way next season.  Even if sadly that has to be without Billy Paynter.

As the former Lead Member for Leisure on Swindon Borough Council, I was involved in supporting the Highworth Rec Trust in securing funding for the swimming pool roof project.  I've been very concerned that financial problems now threaten the facility.  The Leisure Team, supported by senior Councillors, are analysing the finances to see if costs can be reduced and additional income generated.   From my experience in the leisure industry, swimming pools simply don’t make money.  With this is in mind, it’s essential that we explore all opportunities for additional income generation.  For example, there are leisure facilities such as outdoor 5-a-side football pitches that generate a profit, which could be used to off-set losses at the swimming pool, delivering a combined sustainable budget.  I have called a meeting to formally request that they look at all these options.  I’ll leave no stone unturned to secure the long term viability of this wonderful facility.