Hannah Walton-Hughes

Rain is forecast across Swindon on several days next week, potentially ending a prolonged period of hot, dry weather, although temperatures are expected to remain warm between showers. The forecast comes after Wiltshire authorities declared a major incident amid high wildfire risk and banned all barbecues in Swindon Borough Council country parks. An amber heat warning was also issued, with the Met Office advising residents to avoid peak sun, stay hydrated, and take particular care of vulnerable people.

Crowds attended the annual Swindon & Wiltshire Pride event, gathering in Swindon town centre before marching to GWR Park for entertainment and activities. Attendees described the event as welcoming, joyful and important for LGBTQ+ visibility and freedom, while organizers provided quieter visiting hours, live performances and an evening after-party in Old Town.

A petition opposing the expansion of military-drone manufacturing in Swindon closed with 155 signatures, far below the 1,500 needed to trigger a full Swindon Borough Council debate. Youth worker Joe Haney called for transparency, ethical oversight, public consultation and disclosure of industry agreements, citing concerns about warfare, civilian casualties, surveillance, human rights, environmental effects, noise, traffic and airspace use. Swindon is being developed as a drone and defence-technology hub, with nine companies linked to the area and the Uncrewed Systems Centre at Panattoni Park described as Europe’s largest drone-testing facility. Council rules mean the petition will not automatically be debated, while government and local political supporters continue to promote the sector's economic and technological potential.

An emergency alert was sent to residents across Swindon and Wiltshire, and more broadly across England and Wales, warning them not to use barbecues, campfires, fireworks or other potential sources of ignition because of a very high national wildfire risk. The alert followed major fires, including one in Stourbridge that destroyed 19 homes. The Government also banned the sale of disposable barbecues, while major retailers removed them from sale. Extreme heat, drought, falling reservoir levels and prolonged dry weather have heightened fire and public-health risks, prompting officials to urge people to stay hydrated, avoid peak sun, check on vulnerable people and report fires to 999.

A two-year-old boy died suddenly at an address on Beech Avenue in Pinehurst, Swindon, on August 14. Wiltshire Police said there were not thought to be any suspicious circumstances and expressed sympathy for the family. The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said it dispatched multiple emergency resources to the incident.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has declared a major incident because of the strain caused by extremely hot and dry conditions and elevated wildfire alerts. Swindon Borough Council has banned all barbecues, including disposable and bookable barbecues, at its country parks, while residents have supported calls to make the restriction permanent.

A man in his 60s was taken to hospital with a suspected broken ankle and minor head injuries after his motorcycle collided with a car on the A3102 at Lyneham near Swindon. Wiltshire Police said the crash caused temporary road closures, no arrests were made, and enquiries remain ongoing.

Swindon Borough Council is reviewing parking charges introduced in June after concerns about higher evening costs affecting the Wyvern Theatre, Health Hydro users and Old Town businesses. Council leader Gary Sumner said officials are considering revised evening tariffs, potentially 30 or 60 minutes of free town-centre parking, and changes to Old Town pricing. The council is also reviewing the experimental Commercial Road scheme, which created short-stay spaces and disabled bays, after reports of widespread dissatisfaction. Reform UK has asked the council to consider survey responses as part of the consultation process.

Wiltshire Police seized an illegally modified electric bike on Buckhurst Field in Swindon and said it would be destroyed. The rider was reported for driving without insurance and without the appropriate licence. Police warned that e-bikes exceeding 250 watts, providing assistance above 15.5 mph or using a twist throttle without pedalling are illegal, and cautioned parents about penalties when young people use modified vehicles. The enforcement action forms part of a wider crackdown on high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters, which police link to dangerous riding, serious injury risks and youth violence.

A man in his 30s from Edinburgh was stopped by Wiltshire Police on the M4 near junction 16 in Swindon after officers saw his white Mercedes travelling at excessive speed in the middle lane without overtaking. He failed a roadside breath test and was arrested on suspicion of drug driving, careless driving and excess speed. A search of the vehicle led to a further arrest on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply. He was released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Faded and missing road markings at several Swindon roundabouts and junctions have prompted residents to report confusion, near-misses and minor accidents. Concerns include unclear lane arrangements at the Snodshill and Edison Roundabout and the Commonhead Roundabout, as well as poorly visible mini-roundabouts, zebra crossings and speed-bump markings across the town. Swindon Borough Council says it has relined more than 175 areas this year, is on track to exceed its 2025 work, and will inspect the locations raised as part of its ongoing programme.

Swindon Borough Council is organising The Big Town Centre Clean-Up, involving graffiti removal, power-washing, weed clearance, paving repairs and volunteer activities. The council is also urging private property owners—who control about 95% of the town centre’s land and buildings—to maintain their premises. Councillors welcomed the initiative but questioned whether improvements would last; the council said it would explore stronger maintenance services, support a potential business improvement district and increase fines for fly-tipping.

Swindon Borough Council leader Gary Sumner said the council cannot afford to purchase or temporarily take ownership of the derelict, Grade II*-listed Mechanics’ Institute without external funding. The building, which has been closed since 1986 and is privately owned by Forefront Estates, has suffered deterioration, a fire and break-ins. Swindon Heritage Preservation is urging urgent improvements to security, while the council says it has repaired hoardings at taxpayers’ expense and will seek reimbursement from the owner. Restoration options are expected to be costly, with the council relying on external funding and heritage groups to lead the way.

Police recovered a firearm after stopping a vehicle in Hungerford in connection with the fatal shooting of Jimmy Ward at a traveller site in Calcutt near Cricklade. A man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s were arrested on suspicion of firearm possession and assisting an offender, but police have not confirmed whether the weapon was used in the killing. A third person believed to have interacted with Ward before the shooting remains wanted, while officers appeal for witnesses and information.

Construction has begun on the next phase of Panattoni Park in Swindon, with Winvic Construction starting a 43-week programme on July 27, 2026. Three smaller industrial units—8a, 11 and 12—will undergo earthworks, foundations, drainage and hardstanding work over the summer, with building construction scheduled to begin in October and completion targeted for May 2027. Working hours will follow approved planning conditions, while noise, vibration and dust monitoring will be installed near South Marston. McLaren Construction recently completed a 545,000-square-foot facility on the site. The wider 7.2-million-square-foot development is expected to create 7,000 jobs in Swindon and 11,000 more across the regional supply chain.

A fire was discovered at Mouldon Hill in Swindon but had gone out before emergency services attended. Councillor Vinay Manro condemned the incident and warned that dry conditions could allow flames to spread, threatening people, wildlife and habitats. Councillors plan to consider additional signage, while Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service urged residents to avoid barbecues, campfires and bonfires, dispose of smoking materials safely, and report fires or suspicious behaviour immediately.

Wiltshire Police are investigating a public order offence at the Sainsbury's branch in Stratton St Margaret, Swindon, which took place on 10 July. Officers are seeking to identify a man shown in CCTV footage and have asked anyone with information to contact PC Bridgeman or Crimestoppers anonymously.

A Swindon woman identified as Emma criticized bystanders who stopped to watch or film a serious crash on Great Western Way rather than helping the injured occupants. She provided first aid assistance until emergency services arrived. A woman in her 50s was taken to hospital with potentially life-changing injuries, while Wiltshire Police closed the road as officers and other emergency services attended. Police had not confirmed reports that a Tesla was involved.

Wiltshire Police are investigating the theft of goods from the TK Maxx store in Swindon and have released images of people they believe may assist with inquiries. Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Ludlow or report anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A Met Office forecast indicates that rain is unlikely across Swindon, Chippenham and Trowbridge during most of the week, following a prolonged period of warm, dry weather. Sunday is expected to bring the greatest chance of showers, reaching 30 percent in Swindon and Chippenham. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has warned residents about the heightened risk of grass and woodland fires and urged caution with barbecues, cigarettes and controlled burns.

Two men, aged 18 and 20, were arrested in Chippenham after a vehicle linked by automatic number plate recognition to an incident in Frome was located in Hunters Field. The Frome incident allegedly involved men attending a property with machetes. The younger man faces suspicion of affray, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and involvement in the supply of Class A drugs; the older man faces the same allegations along with suspected drink driving. Both were released on bail pending further inquiries.

Swindon councillors and South Swindon MP Heidi Alexander hope the long-derelict former Stagecoach depot on Eastcott Road will finally be redeveloped for housing. The site, vacated in 2016 and repeatedly unsold, is now listed for £910,000 ahead of a July 29, 2026 auction. Existing permission allows 45 homes—38 apartments and seven cottages—but local representatives want any new scheme to address anti-social behaviour, provide adequate parking, fit the conservation area, and include affordable or social housing. A previous proposal for 61 retirement apartments was rejected.

Police recorded around 40 speeding drivers in 30 minutes on Queens Drive outside Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, including three exceeding 50mph in a 30mph zone. Speed Enforcement Officer Andy said speeding in Swindon appears to be increasing and stressed the focus on educating drivers. Penalties for different speed thresholds across 20, 30 and 40mph zones were outlined, and a second checkpoint on Marlborough Road saw fewer offences. Several other speeding hotspots were identified, and residents were encouraged to report concerns to Swindon Borough Council for traffic surveys.

Recent sightings across Wiltshire include rare species such as Osprey, Nightjar, Quail, Marsh Harrier, Grey Partridge, Firecrest, Great White Egret and Cattle Egret, with hotspots at Blakehill Farm, Langford Lakes and the Salisbury Plain Training Area. Several species remain scarce in the county despite occasional increases in sightings, and local birdwatchers rely on frequent updates from the Wiltshire Ornithological Society.

A proposed development of 42 homes on Hodson Road in Chiseldon has been deferred again by Swindon Borough Council over unresolved road safety concerns. Councillors argued that revised traffic‑calming measures were insufficient despite no objections from highways officers. The scheme has drawn significant public opposition citing safety, environmental impact, infrastructure pressures, and conflict with planning policies. Chiseldon Parish Council also objected but indicated the project could be improved with added community benefits. The developer has offered contributions to affordable housing, education, public space, sports facilities, and highway improvements, but councillors remain unconvinced, delaying the decision once more.

A Swindon resident reported severe neglect at Whitworth Road Cemetery, describing overgrown grass and weeds around graves and expressing distress at the site’s condition. He said the issue had occurred previously and that only community service workers were present during his visits, without addressing the problem. The council stated that staff had been working to improve upkeep and were taking additional breaks due to recent heatwaves.

A petition has been launched urging Swindon Borough Council to retain its Build a Greener Swindon Policy and Performance Committee amid a heatwave and concerns about reduced environmental scrutiny. The council’s new Conservative-led administration plans to abolish the committee, arguing it failed to produce effective policies and will be replaced by broader scrutiny bodies. Labour councillors and supporters warn that removing it weakens oversight of climate risks highlighted in the council’s Corporate Risk Register. Former committee leaders stress the need for dedicated public scrutiny as extreme weather intensifies. The petition had 210 signatures as of July 14.

A proposal to construct five new homes in Blunsdon is advancing despite concerns over highway safety. The Local Highway Authority maintained a policy-based objection but concluded that the risk of harm would be low, while other consultees raised no objections subject to conditions. The applicant referenced comparable appeal decisions and argued the plans met required thresholds. The committee report found the development would not have an unacceptable highway impact and recommended approval, noting its contribution to housing supply within the wider Kingsdown strategic allocation.

A fallen tree on Devizes Road in Wroughton caused heavy traffic and delays, prompting a warning from the Wroughton & Wichelstowe Parish Council advising motorists to avoid the area while authorities responded. Traffic maps showed significant congestion as the blockage covered much of the roadway.

A lorry fire on the A419 northbound near Swindon caused a lengthy closure beginning shortly before midday on July 13. National Highways reported that complex recovery work and inspections extended the shutdown through the evening, with emergency services managing the scene and releasing trapped traffic. The road reopened on the morning of July 14 after specialist crews removed 20 tonnes of electrical materials from the burning lorry through a controlled recovery process.

Andy Burnham is expected to undertake a UK summer tour targeting regions experiencing economic decline or impacted by contentious government and Labour policies, with Swindon among the possible stops due to rising Reform UK support. The tour aims to emphasize hope, responsibility, and Labour-led change, marking a shift away from earlier blame-focused messaging under Keir Starmer. Planned destinations include Port Talbot, Aberdeen, and rural areas where farmers have expressed concerns over Labour taxation. Strategists seek to avoid repeating previous missteps such as controversies surrounding the winter fuel allowance and donation scandals, aiming instead to showcase Burnham as the central political voice as he prepares to become prime minister.

The leader of Reform UK in Swindon expressed strong support for Nigel Farage following his resignation as MP for Clacton and decision to stand in the resulting by‑election. The piece outlines scrutiny Farage faces over undeclared financial support from George Cottrell and a £5 million gift from donor Christopher Harborne, prompting investigations by the Electoral Commission and Parliamentary Standards Commissioner. Farage argues he has done nothing wrong and says the by‑election will allow voters to judge him directly. Labour and the TSSA union criticised his move, accusing him of political posturing and neglecting constituents.

Swindon Borough Council will launch a two‑week Big Town Centre Clean‑Up in August 2026 to address graffiti, fly‑tipping and neglected public areas. The initiative will include cleaning, repairs, vegetation removal and increased enforcement against fly‑tipping, alongside efforts to engage property owners in maintaining their buildings. The council plans to raise fly‑tipping penalties and may pursue enforcement against neglected properties. Community groups and residents will be encouraged to participate, and officials emphasise that the cleanup is a short‑term improvement while longer‑term regeneration plans continue.

Swindon Borough Council is considering removing Co‑opted Lay Representatives from its Standards Committee, following the retirement of the last two members and the increasing reliance on statutory Independent Persons under the Localism Act 2011. The proposed change aims to reduce recruitment and allowance costs and align the council with common practice in other authorities. If approved, authority would be delegated to the Chief Legal Officer to update and adopt revised arrangements for handling councillor Code of Conduct complaints, with the proposal scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Standards Committee meeting.

A murder investigation has been launched after the death of shop owner Barbara Mullaney in a collision on the B4696 near Royal Wootton Bassett. Police arrested a 43‑year‑old man, initially on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while unfit, later adding suspicion of murder and attempted murder. A teenage passenger was seriously injured but discharged from hospital. Floral tributes were placed outside Mullaney’s Cricklade shop, and her granddaughter expressed gratitude for community support. The investigation, now led by the Major Crime Investigation Team, includes a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to prior contact with the suspect. Police continue to seek witnesses and dash‑cam footage.

Engineering works between Bristol Parkway and Swindon will disrupt Great Western Railway services for nearly a month, extending travel times on the London Paddington to South Wales route by about 25 minutes. Swindon Borough Council said additional services will operate between London Paddington and Swindon, and passengers are advised to check updated travel information on GWR’s website.

Wiltshire Police issued an urgent appeal to locate Alfred, an 82-year-old man with dementia who went missing from his home in Corsham after being seen at 7:30am. Officers provided a physical description and details of his clothing and urged anyone with information to call 999 and quote log number 92.

The Goodearl Dog Show in Swindon has been rescheduled to July 26 after being postponed due to extreme heat. Haydon Wick Council announced the new date and encouraged participation in various dog classes. Recent heat has also caused cancellations of other local dog shows, including one planned for the Wroughton Carnival, with an animal welfare charity citing rising temperatures and increased cases of heat-related pet deaths. Sponsors and organizers emphasized safety while encouraging continued community support and fundraising efforts.

Costa Coffee reported that a maintenance issue has left the fridge at its kiosk in the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon out of service. The company said repairs are underway and that customers can purchase chilled items from its nearby outlet store, which remains fully stocked. The problem follows several fridge outages at Swindon businesses during recent hot weather.

A cyclist in his twenties from Salisbury died after colliding with a northbound MAN panel van on The Avenue in Wilton at around 5.45pm on July 4. Police confirmed he suffered a fatal head injury and said his family is receiving support. Witnesses or those with dash‑cam footage are asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Team.

High winds prevented hot air balloons from flying on both days of the Swindon Balloon Festival, prompting disappointment among attendees. Organisers emphasised pilot safety and offered alternative entertainment, including tethered baskets, rides, re-enactments and a night glow display. Visitors expressed mixed reactions, with some frustrated and others understanding the safety concerns.

Police reclassified a fatal collision near Royal Wootton Bassett as a murder investigation after arresting the Vauxhall driver on additional charges including murder and attempted murder. Victim Barbara Mullaney, a well‑known Cricklade pet shop owner, died at the scene, while a teenage passenger suffered serious injuries. The case has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to prior police involvement with the suspect and is now being led by the Major Crime Investigation Team. Authorities are seeking witnesses and dash‑cam footage as the community pays tribute to Mullaney’s life and impact.

Wiltshire Police issued an appeal for information to help locate 18-year-old Tamia, last seen in the Wood Street area of Swindon shortly after 1 a.m. Officers described her appearance and asked the public to call 999 with any information, citing log number 140 of July 4. The force later confirmed she had been found.

Police in Wiltshire are appealing for help locating a 48‑year‑old man from the Abbey Meads area of Swindon who was last seen on July 1. CCTV shows him at a Nationwide branch in Marlborough on the same day. Officers note he may have changed clothes and urge anyone with information to contact them with the provided reference number.

A417 northbound near Cirencester is closed for weekend roadworks between the A429 Burford Road and the A436 Air Balloon Roundabout. The southbound side is also closed between the Air Balloon Roundabout and the Winstone/Elkstone turnoff, with delays expected for drivers.

A man in his 60s suffered serious head and arm injuries after being attacked by a group of males near Swindon’s County Ground on the evening of July 3. Police are investigating the incident as grievous bodily harm and are appealing for witnesses, including anyone with dash‑cam or doorbell footage showing a group of Asian males in the area between 8pm and 9pm. The victim is hospitalized with injuries not believed to be life‑threatening, and authorities are urging the public to contact them with information.

A week‑long yellow heat health alert has been issued for the South West by the UK Health Security Agency, prompting guidance from Swindon Borough Council on staying safe in hot weather. The alert warns of higher risks for vulnerable people, increased pressure on health and social care services, and potential water‑related incidents. Recent heat has disrupted local events and caused refrigeration failures at businesses in Swindon, affecting shops including Costa kiosks and Morrisons.

Russell & Bromley, the high‑street footwear retailer, has closed its remaining stores after collapsing into administration owing £59.3 million and recording £20 million in losses over two years. Next purchased the brand and selected assets, retaining only three stores while the rest shut, resulting in 400 redundancies. Administrators from Interpath Advisory attributed the collapse to falling sales, rising operational costs and difficult trading conditions marked by inflation and weak consumer demand. A later statement reported an estimated deficiency of £35.7 million.

Windy conditions prevented balloon flights on the first day of the Swindon Balloon Festival, but organisers hope flights may proceed on July 4, depending on evening weather. The Met Office forecasts high winds despite warm temperatures, and organisers plan to tether balloons and continue other scheduled entertainment. Event director David Bailey expressed optimism for improved conditions, while festival updates indicate a potential 7pm launch if weather permits.

A teenager was hospitalized with non‑life‑threatening knife wounds after a disorder at Redhouse Community Centre in Swindon. Police cordoned off the area, arrested four boys aged 14 to 18 on suspicion of affray, and later released them on bail as inquiries continued. Local residents reported fear and police questioning in the aftermath, and authorities appealed for witnesses to come forward with information.

A Suzuki Baleno mounted the pavement near Tadpole Farm CE Primary Academy in Swindon, striking four pedestrians. One woman in her 30s sustained serious but non–life-threatening injuries, while three others were treated for minor injuries at the scene. The driver, also a woman in her 30s, was taken to hospital, and no arrests have been made. Wiltshire Police established and later lifted a scene for investigation. Local councillors Daniel and Cherie Adams thanked first responders, expressed support for the injured, and said they will seek updates from police and explore potential road‑safety measures.

Four pedestrians, including a woman with serious but non–life-threatening injuries, were struck by a Suzuki Baleno that mounted the pavement near Tadpole Farm Primary Academy in Swindon. Emergency services responded quickly, and the driver, also a woman in her 30s, was taken to hospital. Local councillors thanked first responders, expressed concern for those injured, and said they will seek updates from police and consider safety measures to prevent future incidents.

Emergency services responded to an incident on Greene Street near Tadpole Farm CE Primary Academy where four people were struck by a car, including an adult woman who suffered a broken femur and was taken to hospital. The driver was also assessed and taken to hospital as a precaution. Councillors Daniel and Cherie Adams thanked first responders, expressed concern for the injured, and said they would seek updates from police and consider safety measures pending the investigation.

Swindon Borough Council reports progress in addressing serious failings identified during a regulatory inspection, noting improved tenant satisfaction and advancements in safety and housing upgrades. Investment in asset management, energy efficiency and safety systems is underway alongside a proposed service restructure. Despite progress, the council acknowledges ongoing challenges and the need for long-term reform to meet strengthened housing standards.