Swindon Area Green Party - Queen's Park Ward

29/08/2026

I’m sharing this update from our neighbouring Kingshill Ward because Queen’s Park Ward shares a boundary with Kingshill, and that makes this development relevant to many of us.

Planning approval has been granted for Newburn Sidings, but the process isn’t over. Important details still have to be agreed through the Reserved Matters process — including issues around infrastructure, ecology, housing quality and the environment.

These things don’t stop at a ward boundary. Changes in Kingshill will have a direct impact on our roads, services, green spaces and the wider community in Queen’s Park.

That’s why I believe we should all stay informed and make sure local residents have a voice throughout the process — not just when the initial planning application is decided.

Please take a moment to read the update below and share it with your neighbours.

Our communities are connected, and our voices are stronger when we stand together.

NEWBURN SIDINGS: PLANNING APPROVAL IS NOT THE END OF THE PROCESS

Planning consent has now been granted (last week) for the Newburn Sidings housing development (SBC planning portal ref : S/OUT/21/0181), which is within the Kingshill ward and very close to many local residents.

While we are disappointed that the application has been approved, there is still an important process to follow before the development can commence.

We have contacted the Chair of Swindon Council’s Planning Committee to seek clarification on three key questions:

Reserved Matters :

The consent includes a number of Reserved Matters (details and conditions that still need to be agreed or addressed before development activity can begin). We have asked the Council to confirm exactly what these are and what needs to be resolved.

Public scrutiny and consultation :

Will local residents have the opportunity to see and comment on the Reserved Matters when they are submitted by the developer?

How do residents keep track?

Will these submissions appear under the existing planning application reference S/OUT/21/0181, or will new application reference numbers be created?

If new references are generated, we will make sure residents know what to look out for.

Approval does not mean we should stop paying attention.

Our priority now is to ensure that the development is the best version it can possibly be with proper consideration given to housing quality, ecology, nature, community, infrastructure and the environment.

We will keep local residents updated as we receive further information.

Local residents deserve to have a voice throughout the process and not just when the initial planning application is decided. You can view the details on the SBC planning portal.

08/07/2026

We cannot bury our heads in the sand and ignore climate change. This is not the time to scale back our efforts—we need to act faster, stronger, and with far greater urgency.

For too long, many believed that climate change was something that only affected poorer nations or places far from home. But that is no longer true. The recent heatwave is yet another reminder that the impacts are here, affecting our communities and our lives.

The solutions are within our reach. We need to plant more trees, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, protect our rivers and seas, and invest in better walking and cycling infrastructure. Every action matters, but we need governments, businesses, and individuals all pulling in the same direction.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting our health, our environment, our future, and the basic right of everyone to live in a safe and sustainable world. The time to act is now.

Swindon Area Green Party has written to Councillor Jake Chandler on the future of the 'Build a Greener Swindon' committee.

26/06/2026

Don’t forget the Swindon Mela this Sunday from 12 @ GWR Park, Faringdon Road.

Weather looks cooler and dry and food is always great there. Looking forward to some mocktails and lassi in this heat!

And entertainment tends to always get you tapping your feet and relaxing with the beats!

See you there..

24/06/2026

Stay Safe in the Extreme Heat

With temperatures soaring, please take care of yourselves and each other.

💧 Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Electrolytes are also recommended.

🧢 Stay in the shade or indoors during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm if possible).

❤️ Please also check in on elderly neighbours, people living alone, and anyone with health conditions. A quick phone call or visit could make all the difference.

Certain medication may also need to kept in the fridge- please check your medication.

For those sleeping rough/ if you can please do reach out to them and let them know of the Haven Day Centre on Queen’s Drive and The Big Breakfast in Town/ Pilgrim centre.

🐶 Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening.
🐾 Test the pavement with the back of your hand – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws.
💦 Make sure pets always have access to fresh water and shade.
🐦 Leave a shallow dish of water outside for birds and wildlife if you can.

A little kindness and common sense can help keep everyone safe during this hot weather. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for one another. ❤️🌞

22/06/2026

Another day another report. I have reported this Flytipping this morning. On my school drop this morning I saw this and a neighbour informed me this section is always dumped on and more needs to be done to help clean up the area.

Some of the responsibility has to be with residents themselves- but what about when others from elsewhere dump rubbish?

What’s the solution? Can we introduce pooled waste collection via a neighbourhood agreement?

17/06/2026

Today- starting at 10 am at Legend’s Lounge at the County Ground (football stadium) is the job fair.

Loads of recruiters. Great chance to meet employers in person, promote yourself and get hints and tips.

Headliners include Socomec U.K. and HCRG Care Group. Additional notable employers exhibiting today include Prior's Court (social care).

Take your CV and valid ID- this could be the day!

13/06/2026

I love that this ward showcases the best of us

We have the Bangladeshi Mela on 28th July which promises great music, food, clothes and variety of stalls! Come and join us and let’s hope the weather is on our side so we can really get into the vibe!

We also have the African festival on 25th July…another vibrant festival uniting us through food, music and culture.

Put the dates in the diary. Hopefully see you there

07/06/2026

Lots happening in the ward and across Swindon this month!

🇵🇱 The Polish Festival is taking place today in Queen’s Park. I was there this morning running with Swindon Sole Sisters and saw everything being set up. There’ll be great food, music, and a fantastic atmosphere in a beautiful location—well worth a visit.

🎉 The Old Town Festival is also on today along Wood Street. It’s a lovely opportunity to meet neighbours, support local businesses, and enjoy some excellent food and entertainment.

🇮🇳 Looking ahead, the Goan Festival will be coming to Queen’s Park on 20 June.

🇧🇩 And on 28 June, the Bangladeshi Boishakhi Mela will take place at GWR Park.

It’s wonderful to see so many community events bringing people together and celebrating the diversity of our town. If you can, do come along and support.

24/05/2026

My first volunteer role at Junior Park Run done at GWR Park, Faringdon Road.

Best way to spend a Sunday morning- a real sense of community and fantastic way to get kids active and meet people.

GWR park in general is a great place to get your vitamin D, and look at all the beautiful things South Swindon Parish Council have done-including the Bugs Hotel! Get Active, relax, learn about the environment/nature- all in one!

Highly recommend it!

23/05/2026

Junior Park Runs on a Sundays for 4-14 year olds- 2km tracks. Parents can walk/jog run along with their little ones.

Every Sunday. For those living in Queen’s Park ward/ your nearest one is at GWR park. Completely free and a great way to get active. Sign up- takes 2 mins.

A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds). Nearby Saturday parkrun events can be found here.