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Liz Matthews

Orbital Market – Saturday 28th June ’25
Orbital Market – Saturday 28th June ’25 2560 1920 Liz Matthews
Thanks to everyone who stopped by for a chat at this month’s Orbital market on Saturday 28th June 25
We had some great conversations and lots of useful feedback.
Here’s what we heard:
✅ Residents gave a big thumbs up for improved hedge cutting, weed spraying, and some recent tree work around Haydon End.
🎨 Lots of love for the outdoor art event held earlier this year in Oakhurst — great to see creativity bringing people together!
🍟 Questions came up about the McDonald’s planning application — we’re listening.
🧹 Many of you asked about the road sweeper schedule — we’re on it!
🕳️ Potholes were raised and have been passed on to Swindon Borough Council.
🗑️ Concerns about the bins at Greenmeadow shops came up again — noted!
🌧️ The underpass from Taw Hill was flagged for flooding — we’re looking into who’s responsible so it can be sorted.
🚌 Lots of interest in the brilliant Haydon Wick Haven activities and day trips — great to see such enthusiasm!
We also loved hearing what you think about the market itself. Your feedback really does help us get things done — so please keep it coming! 💬💚

Feel Good Friday
Feel Good Friday 2560 2560 Liz Matthews
This wonderful message from one of our Abbey Meads residents who has absolutely made our day.
We recently helped with some hedge pruning that seemed like routine maintenance to us, but made a real difference to someone in our community. What started as a simple call about an overgrown hedge helped a resident get their broadband installation sorted in time.
Our resident wanted to share heartfelt thanks to everyone involved – from our office team who handled the call, through to the grounds maintenance team who carried out the work.
They were particularly impressed with how pleasant everyone was to deal with, the speed of response, and the professional service from start to finish.
It’s a lovely reminder that everyday tasks can have genuine impact on someone’s life. Sometimes it’s not just about the hedge – it’s about helping someone stay connected.
In their words….”Thank you to everyone who made this happen. You truly are a credit to our Parish Council” 💚

Companions Café Update
Companions Café Update 1600 924 Liz Matthews
What a wonderful morning at our monthly Companion Café☕️
Today we were delighted to welcome Dee, the amazing Admiral Nurse. It is always such a pleasure having Dee join us – she brings a wealth of knowledge and all the latest information about support for people living
with dementia and their companions. 💙
We also had Right at Home join us, entertaining our residents living with dementia in this safe space. Right at Home devote their time to providing stimulating games, music and fun for residents living with dementia – bringing so much joy and engagement. ✨
Our Companion Café is all about YOU – the companion. It is your safe space to talk, share, and feel truly heard. Because we know that caring for someone with dementia means you need support too.
Thank you to everyone who joined us today, and a special thank you to Dee, for sharing her expertise. 🙏
Spaces like this remind us how important community support truly is. Together, we’re stronger. 🤗
For more information and to book your space, reach out to our Memory Café & Community Co-ordinator:
📧 memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk
☎ 01793 722446
Come to our Companions Café and be part of a caring community. Next Café: Thursday, 24th July

EDF Delay Leaves New Grounds Maintenance Facility Idle and Public Funds Wasted
EDF Delay Leaves New Grounds Maintenance Facility Idle and Public Funds Wasted 2016 1512 Liz Matthews

Haydon Wick Parish Council is calling on EDF Energy to take urgent action following a three-month delay in installing a three-phase electricity meter at the Council’s newly constructed Grounds Maintenance Facility on Blunsdon Road, Swindon.

The building is near completion and ready for use. However, essential systems—including fire alarms, heating, and security infrastructure—cannot operate without a functioning power supply. As a result, the Facility cannot legally or safely open.

EDF acknowledged the installation request in March 2025, and has repeatedly assured the Council that the matter has been escalated. Yet, to date, no confirmed installation date has been provided. Compounding the issue, EDF continues to charge a standing fee for a supply that has not been delivered.

Meanwhile, the delay is forcing the Council to lease external premises to sustain critical grounds maintenance operations, at an ongoing cost of over £1,000 per month—a burden carried by public funds. These operations include the Council’s grass cutting team, hedge and tree maintenance team, parks and open spaces staff, and the bin and tidy-up team, all of whom deliver daily critical frontline services to over 23,000 residents across the parish.

“This is a completed public facility sitting idle due to a preventable delay,” said Councillor Vinay Manro, Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council. “The longer this goes on, the more pressure it puts on our services and our budget. EDF must act before the situation worsens.”

A formal complaint has been submitted. The Council is also exploring the use of temporary power as a short-term workaround, but this would come at additional cost and complexity. The Council is therefore calling on EDF to urgently provide the following:

  1. A confirmed installation date within seven working days
  2. A written explanation for the prolonged delay
  3. A review and refund of standing charges applied during the non-supply period

“If this matter is not resolved promptly,” Cllr Manro added, “the Council will escalate the case to Ofgem and raise it publicly with other relevant bodies. This situation demands urgency and accountability.”

Haydon Wick Parish Council remains committed to opening the new facility as soon as possible and will continue to keep the public updated on progress.

Celebrating Outstanding BMW Volunteer Commitment
Celebrating Outstanding BMW Volunteer Commitment 2560 2051 Liz Matthews
What began as a standard request for a corporate away day has blossomed into an inspiring
story of community dedication, as a BMW employee Andy has transformed a volunteer opportunity
into a week of service to the local Parish Council and dedication to the community.

The volunteer was first introduced to the Parish Council by Councillor Leigh Jackson (who
also works as a Production Specialist at BMW) – to support local environmental initiatives
such as graffiti removal and post–maintenance clean–up across the parish.

However, what sets this volunteer apart is his unwavering commitment that has extended far
beyond the original brief. Rain or shine, the dedicated BMW worker has continued to show up,
tackling community improvement projects regardless of weather conditions. His reliability and
positive attitude made him an invaluable asset to the Parish Council’s ongoing efforts to
maintain and enhance local public spaces.

“His dedication has been remarkable,” said Cllr V Manro, Chairman of the Council. “He
consistently volunteered his time for essential maintenance work. When he arrived with cakes
on his birthday to share with the team, it really showed the kind of person he is – someone
who thinks of others even on his special day. We’re thrilled BMW’s initial corporate away day
program has generated lasting benefits for the local community, demonstrating how business
and civic partnerships can create meaningful change.“

The volunteer’s contributions have included:
• Comprehensive graffiti removal across multiple parish locations
• Post–maintenance clean-up operations
•General environmental improvements and tidying initiatives
•Bringing community spirit and positivity to every project

This partnership exemplifies the positive impact that can result when corporate social
responsibility initiatives evolve into genuine community engagement. The Parish Council has
expressed gratitude for BMW’s support and hopes that this example will inspire other local
businesses and individuals to consider similar community involvement opportunities.
To learn more about the Parish Council’s community volunteer opportunities contact the Deputy Clerk, HR & Services Manager on 01793 772446 // deputyclerk@haydonwick.gov.uk

Public Notice Update
Public Notice Update 2560 1440 Liz Matthews

On Behalf of National Highways: Major Maintenance on A419/A417

🚧 ROAD CLOSURE ALERT 🚧

Major bridge painting works coming to A419/A417!

📅 When: Night closures 8pm-6am from Sat 31st May – Thu 26th June

📍 Where: Marston Meysey & Commonhead bridges

🚗 Impact: Various sections closed on different dates

✅ Good news: Road fully open during day (6am-8pm)

🗺️ Diversions: Clearly signed alternative routes available

This essential maintenance will keep our bridges safe and extend their lifespan, preventing more disruptive repairs in the future.

⚠️ Planning a journey? Check before you travel and follow signed diversions (not sat nav!)

For updates: 📞 0300 123 5000 | 🌐 www.nationalhighways.co.uk

More information can be found here (Revised)

Public Notice Update
Public Notice Update 2560 1440 Liz Matthews

On Behalf of National Highways: Cyclic Maintenance on A419/A417

Essential maintenance on the A419/A417.

Includes grass cutting, cleaning drains, and managing vegetation. Now also: Bridge Painting

When: Night closures from 8pm to 6am between May 1st – May 30th.

Signs will guide drivers around closed areas. Local residents may hear some noise during work hours.

More information can be found here (Revised)

Dementia Action Week 19th – 25th May 2025
Dementia Action Week 19th – 25th May 2025 1100 1100 Liz Matthews

Over the week we will continue to raise awareness of the importance of an early diagnosis for people affected by dementia.

 

What is Dementia?

  • Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types.
  • Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and, together with vascular dementia, makes up the majority of cases.
  • Dementia is a progressive disease, however, many people living with dementia leads active lives for many years.

Many factors can increase a person’s risk of developing dementia, including but not limited to:

  • Ageing
  • Genes
  • Lifestyle (physical activity, diet, smoking, alcohol intake)

The majority of people with dementia are over sixty-five, but dementia can also affect younger people.

What are the symptoms?

Dementia affects everyone in different ways. Below are some of the most common symptoms:

  • Memory loss
  • Difficulty thinking things through and planning.
  • Problems with language
  • Being confused about time or place
  • Visual-perceptual difficulties
  • Mood changes or difficulties controlling emotions.

Discover more at: Dementia Action Week | Alzheimer’s Society

A dementia diagnosis is vital

Diagnosis is vital to give people access to the care, treatment and support they desperately need. Yet, incredibly, 1 in 3 people with dementia do not have a diagnosis.

If you’re worried about yourself, or someone close to you, get help describing your symptoms to a GP by filling in our symptoms checklist. Go to: Checklist for dementia symptoms | Alzheimer’s Society

If you’d like to find out more about our dementia friendly group please contact: Memory Café & Community Co-ordinator Jo at: memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk, or call the Parish Council on: 01793 722446

Parish Councillor Vacancy
Parish Councillor Vacancy 1167 875 Liz Matthews

Become a Haydon Wick Parish Councillor: Co-option Vacancy

Haydon Wick Parish Council is seeking a dedicated individual to serve as a Parish Councillor and help shape the future of our community.

As a Parish Councillor, you will:

  • Represent the interests of the parish and the community
  • Influence important local issues like planning, environment, transport and community facilities
  • Work alongside community groups to improve the parish
  • Have a voice in how council tax money is invested in local services and amenities
  • Attend meetings, engage with residents, and make decisions that will have a real impact on the community.

It’s a rewarding way to give back and ensure our parish remains a vibrant, desirable place to live, work and raise a family.

If you are passionate about improving our community with a few hours (or more!) each month to volunteer, we encourage you to put yourself forward. Any qualifying Haydon Wick resident can become a candidate.

For more information on roles, responsibilities and how to get involved, contact Georgina Morgan-Denn, Chief Officer/Clerk at clerk@haydonwick.gov.uk.

Make your voice heard – Become a Haydon Wick Parish Councillor today!

To apply:
1. Attend at least one Council meeting before the co-option takes place on the 24th June 2025 (Council Meetings | Haydon Wick Parish Council | Calendar of Events)
2. Contact current councillors with any questions
3. Complete the application form above
4. Submit a cover letter explaining why you want to become a councillor

A panel will consider your application and invite you in for a conversation.

Closing date: 12th June 2025

Please apply through the form below:

Councillor Application
First
Last
Address
City
State/Province
Zip/Postal
Country

Maximum file size: 8.39MB

To qualify, you must:

  • Be a UK/Commonwealth/Irish/EU citizen
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Either live in the parish, live within 3 miles of the parish, work in the parish, or have lived/owned property in the parish within the last year

You cannot become a councillor if:

  • You have been convicted of a crime with a prison sentence of 3+ months in the last 5 years
  • You have been declared bankrupt
  • You are employed by the Parish Council

As a councillor, you’ll need to attend bi-weekly meetings (minimum 4 hours per month). And support working parties.

There are allowances available to cover travel/subsistence costs when on council duties.

Interviews are scheduled to take place week commencing 8th April 2024

Roundabout at Elstree Way – Green Space Update
Roundabout at Elstree Way – Green Space Update 640 480 Liz Matthews

Following recent safety works, the roundabout verge has now been cleared. Grass seed is being laid to help restore a tidy, green appearance.

Soon, a short hedgerow will follow. This will add structure, support wildlife, and keep the space looking cared for—without blocking sightlines or needing frequent cuts.

We know the area looked bare just after the shrubs were removed. But this is part of a wider plan to improve safety and reduce overgrowth. The old shrubs had become difficult to manage and were starting to block views for drivers and pedestrians.

The space will remain green, low-maintenance, and safe.

Thank you for your patience while the improvements are finished.

Cllr Steve Heyes

Vice Chairman of Council and Parks & Open Spaces

Explore our latest news

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Haydon Wick Parish Council Strengthens Its Commitment to the Armed Forces Community

 Haydon Wick Parish Council Strengthens Its Commitment to the Armed Forces Community 1860 1392 Liz Matthews

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Community Together 💙

 Building a Stronger, More Resilient Community Together 💙 2016 1512 Liz Matthews

Haydon Wick Through Children’s Eyes: Creative Ideas Inspire New Community Mural

 Haydon Wick Through Children’s Eyes: Creative Ideas Inspire New Community Mural 1600 1200 Liz Matthews

Summer Extravaganza 2026 – a Fantastic Day of Fun, Music and Community Togetherness

 Summer Extravaganza 2026 – a Fantastic Day of Fun, Music and Community Togetherness 766 540 Liz Matthews

Grounds Maintenance Facility Officially Opens 

 Grounds Maintenance Facility Officially Opens  2560 1707 Liz Matthews

What a wonderful morning at the Haydon Wick Haven

 What a wonderful morning at the Haydon Wick Haven 2048 2048 Liz Matthews

Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening & Dog Show

 Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening & Dog Show 1417 2126 Liz Matthews

Today at the Companions Café

 Today at the Companions Café 1100 1100 Liz Matthews

Proud to Support Our Local School Summer Fetes

 Proud to Support Our Local School Summer Fetes 1296 972 Liz Matthews
About Us

We are the Parish Council that wants to lead and develop our local community. We are self-aware and are committed to focussing on the urban issues that are important to the entire community.

Our Address
Haydon Wick Parish Council
Thames Avenue
Haydon Wick
Swindon
SN25 1QQ
Contact Us

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Our thanks to Mark Weaving, Phil Jefferies, Rimpy and Shohini Dutta Kanungo for many of the photographs used across the website

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