Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council was originally non-political back in the late 1970’s, before candidates started standing under a political affiliation, now in a historic change, the council has announced its desire to return to being a non-political organisation.

In late 2023 at a workshop organised by new Chief Officer Mark Hopkins, Town Councillors started discussions about how being a member of a political party impacted the working of the Town Council, how residents’ views were represented, and how councillors worked together.

These discussions progressed, and at a meeting of the Full Council on 18^th July 2024, Town Councillors agreed for the Chief Officer to investigate options, process and costs of becoming a non-political council.

It has been the desire of the Town Council to move to a non-political council for some time, with the aim that at election time potential candidates agree to stand in their own name, so that they solely represent the views of the community they serve. Since July, councillors have been able to discuss this idea with residents.

During the meeting of the Full Council on 6^th February 2025, Town Councillors had a healthy debate on this proposal, which was discussed at length, and residents who attended the meeting were invited to share their views; the motion was carried with the majority of councillors agreeing to the proposal.

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council now joins hundreds of other town and parish councils in the country, including close neighbour Malmesbury Town Council, who have been non-political for over 12 years, following best practice recommended by the National Association of Local Councils.

By making this change, the council believes that it directly links to our emerging strategic town plan, and its values of being collaborative and inclusive, ensuring every decision made is in the interest of Royal Wootton Bassett and all its residents, businesses and visitors. The benefits include;

Focus on Local Issues: Without party affiliation or ideological pressures, the council can prioritise the specific needs of the community, such as parks, public safety, and local development, rather than getting caught up in broader national or political debates.

Encourages Collaboration: When council members aren’t bound by party lines, they can work together more easily to find common ground and reach consensus on local matters. This fosters cooperation and unity, leading to more effective decision-making.

Reduces Partisanship: Partisan politics can sometimes create division within communities. A non-political council helps ensure that decisions are made based on what’s best for the community rather than on aligning with political ideologies.

Increased Public Trust: People often feel disconnected or sceptical of political parties, but a non-political council can feel more transparent and accountable, as its members are less likely to be perceived as advancing personal or party agendas.

Encourages Diverse Perspectives: Without the constraints of political affiliation, individuals from a variety of backgrounds and viewpoints can contribute to council decisions, which can result in a more balanced and inclusive approach to local governance.

Local Solutions Over National Influence: Political party-driven decision-making often comes with national-level influence and interests that may not always align with local needs. A non-political council is more likely to tailor decisions to fit the unique needs of the town.

In essence, a non-political town council allows for governance that is more flexible, community-centred, and focused on practical, everyday issues rather than broader political agendas.

The next round of elections for Parish and Town councils in Wiltshire will take place on Thursday 1^st May 2025. Residents who are passionate about Royal Wootton Bassett and have the time and desire to help make a difference, are encouraged to put themselves forward and stand as an independent Town Councillor.

To find out more about standing as councillor please visit the ‘Becoming a councillor’ page on the Local Government Association website – www.local.gov.uk as well as Wiltshire Council’s local election page which details the key dates for candidates wishing to stand at these elections – http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/local-elections.

Alternatively, residents can contact Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council on 01793 850222, visit our new resident portal My Bassett on our website, by email on enquiries@royalwoottonbassett.gov.uk or speak to one our current Town Councillors, who can let you know what’s involved.