Elections to Swindon Borough Council changed to once every four years

The 'all-out' election system will see all Councillors chosen at once, rather than one-third for four year terms

Author: Cameron HallPublished 13th Oct 2023

Councillors in Swindon have voted to change the way they are elected.

Every councillor voted on Thursday to switch to an 'all-out' system - which will see all Swindon Borough Councillors elected every four years.

The first election using this system will take place in 2026.

Currently, one-third of councillors are elected for four year terms, with elections taking place in all but one year in every four.

But the Council say they expect to save £300,000 every four years with this change.

They also said Councillors would be able to make more long-term decisions.

It follows a public consultation that was held over the summer, where 58.56% of 794 respondents voted in favour of the 'all-out' system.

The Local Government Boundary Commission is also reviewing existing ward boundaries - with any changes to this being introduced when the new electoral cycle begins in 2026.

Swindon's Council Leader, Councillor Jim Robbins, said: “I am delighted that councillors have voted to move to ‘all-out’ elections following our consultation with residents over the summer.

"This will allow us to work on our long-term missions to reduce inequality, achieve net zero, and build a better Swindon. We hope that this will help to bring positive change to the people of Swindon. It will also have the added benefit of saving the council money.”