News

Community Grant Awards Announcement
Community Grant Awards Announcement 2333 1750 Liz Matthews

Haydon Wick Parish Council Awards Over ÂŁ1,600 in Community Grants

HAYDON WICK, 13 February 2026 – Haydon Wick Parish Council is delighted to announce the award of £1,621.46 in grants to three local community organisations, supporting the arts, disability inclusion, and sports within the parish.

The grants were awarded during the January 2026 funding round to organisations that demonstrate clear benefits to Haydon Wick residents and the wider community.

Grant Recipients

Tuesday Art Group (Haydon Wick) – £522.72

The Tuesday Art Group received funding to cover exhibition room hire costs for their annual art exhibition. This event offers members the opportunity to celebrate their work and display it to the wider community, whilst keeping membership costs affordable for all members who rely on the group for vital social interaction.

Teamability CIC – £658.78

Teamability CIC was awarded £658.78 to assist with delivering inclusive education and community activities that increase awareness, empathy, and positive attitudes towards disability.

Led by lived experience, Teamability runs Inclusivity Days, workshops, and school assemblies giving children hands-on opportunities to experience what it can feel like to live with a disability. The organisation also operates Singability, a music group for children with profound disabilities in North Swindon, providing a rare and welcoming space for families within Haydon Wick Parish.

The grant will enable Teamability to offer their inclusivity workshops to schools within Haydon Wick Parish at a reduced fee or for free, reaching entire school communities rather than single classes.

Haydon Wick Bowls Club – £439.96

Haydon Wick Bowls Club secured funding for two seed slotters and two lute rakes to help with the significantly less effort required in spring and summer for maintaining the green. This job would be able to help with less effort required and need re-seeding. The equipment will enable club members, particularly exempt players, to contribute to ground maintenance whilst benefiting from team spirit and companionship. The club emphasises that working together unfortunately with an ageing membership means more players become exempt from the more manual activities.

Next Application Deadline: 31st May 2026

Haydon Wick Parish Council welcomes grant applications from local organisations three times per year, with deadlines on 31 May, 30 September, and 31 January.

The next application deadline is 31st May 2026.

Grants are available to support projects and activities that benefit Haydon Wick residents. Community groups, charities, and local organisations are encouraged to apply.

Councillor Rebecca Ross, Chair of the Community Development Committee, commented: “We are proud to support these three inspiring organisations that are making a genuine difference in our community. From fostering creativity and social connection to building inclusive education and maintaining valued community spaces, these projects highlight the power of local action. We look forward to receiving more applications in the next round.”

About Haydon Wick Parish Council

Haydon Wick Parish Council serves 23,000 residents of Haydon Wick, providing local services and supporting community initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the parish. The Council’s grant programme helps local organisations deliver valuable services and activities for residents.

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Forward-looking Budget and Precept for 2026/27
Forward-looking Budget and Precept for 2026/27 2560 2560 Liz Matthews

Haydon Wick Parish Council has approved a forward-looking budget and precept for 2026/27, reinforcing its commitment to protecting valued local services, enhancing community spaces, and investing in a parish residents are proud to call home.

Following careful review by the Finance and Policy Committee and Full Council, Members agreed a total budget and precept of ÂŁ1,573,942.69, ensuring continued delivery of high-quality services and meaningful improvements across the parish.

For a Band D household, this represents £176.13 per year—an increase of £22.69 annually, or approximately £1.89 per month. This investment will directly support the maintenance and enhancement of community facilities, green spaces, and services that benefit residents of all ages.

Budget Aligned with Renewed Community-Led Action Plan

This budget has been carefully aligned with the Parish Council’s strategic priorities and supports the renewal of its Community-Led Action Plan, which will be refreshed in April 2026 to guide the Council’s vision and investment for the following three years.

The Community-Led Action Plan is a forward-thinking strategy shaped by residents’ views and local priorities. As part of this process, the Council is encouraging residents, community groups, and stakeholders to help shape the future of Haydon Wick by participating in the live public consultation. Residents can share their ideas, priorities, and aspirations to ensure the Parish continues to evolve in a way that reflects the needs and ambitions of the community.

Investing in Haydon Wick’s Future

The approved budget reflects the Council’s clear focus on strengthening community life, improving local infrastructure, and maintaining safe, welcoming environments for residents, families, and visitors. 

Key priorities include:

Enhancing Play Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Haydon Wick is proud to manage 23 play parks—one of the highest numbers of any parish in Swindon. A dedicated investment of £100,000 will support the continued refurbishment and improvement of these vital community assets, ensuring children and families have access to safe, modern, and enjoyable play environments.

Strengthening Community Partnerships and Parish Improvements
New and expanded partnerships with local organisations will help deliver visible improvements across open spaces and community areas, helping create a greener, more attractive parish that residents can take pride in.

Supporting Vibrant Community Events
Additional funding will support the Parish’s much-loved Summer and Christmas events, which bring thousands of residents together each year. These events play an important role in strengthening community spirit, celebrating local identity, and creating lasting memories for families.

Supporting Vulnerable Residents
The Council remains committed to supporting those most in need, with increased funding for the Christmas parcel scheme, ensuring vulnerable residents feel supported and included during the festive period.

Investing in Local Infrastructure and Services
Funding has been allocated to operate the new Grounds Maintenance Facility, improving the Council’s ability to care for parks, green spaces, and community assets. This investment strengthens long-term service resilience while ensuring Haydon Wick remains clean, safe, and well-maintained.

Responsible and Prudent Financial Management
The Council continues to demonstrate careful stewardship of public funds. Through efficient management, approximately £59,000 in savings were achieved during the current financial year. These savings strengthen the Council’s financial resilience while enabling continued investment in priorities that matter most to residents.

Looking Ahead: Delivering the Community-Led Action Plan
The 2026/27 budget supports key priorities identified within the Parish Council’s Community-Led Action Plan 2026–2029, including biodiversity strategies to protect and enhance Haydon Wick’s natural environment for future generations. The Council will also ensure continued progress while maintaining value for money and delivering on the shared vision set out by the community.

Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council, Cllr Vinay Manro, said:“This budget reflects our strong commitment to investing in Haydon Wick and delivering the priorities that matter most to our residents. It has been carefully aligned with our strategic priorities and will support the renewal of our Community-Led Action Plan, ensuring we continue to deliver real improvements across the parish.

Our Community-Led Action Plan is shaped by residents, and I would strongly encourage everyone to take part in the consultation. This is an important opportunity for residents to share their views and help shape the future of Haydon Wick. We are proud of our Parish and the strong sense of community we share. This investment will help us protect our green spaces, enhance our facilities, and continue building a parish that residents are proud to call home.”

A Parish to Be Proud Of
This budget reflects Haydon Wick Parish Council’s ongoing commitment to investing in the community, maintaining high standards, and delivering a progressive Community-Led Action Plan.

Every pound invested helps protect local facilities, enhance green spaces, support community initiatives, and ensure Haydon Wick continues to thrive as a parish where people feel safe, connected, and proud to live.

Encouraging Residents to Get Involved
Haydon Wick Parish Council encourages all residents to participate in the live public consultation and play an active role in shaping the Parish’s priorities for the next three years.

Further details on how to take part will be shared via the Parish Council’s website and communication channels.

Celebrating National Apprenticeships Week
Celebrating National Apprenticeships Week 2333 1750 Liz Matthews

Haydon Wick Parish Council is proud to celebrate National Apprenticeships Week 2026 by highlighting its ongoing commitment to providing meaningful career development opportunities for young professionals across administration, grounds maintenance, and community services.

The Council has demonstrated its dedication to nurturing talent through structured work placements, apprenticeship programmes, and work experience opportunities that offer real-world experience in public sector administration, parks management, and community engagement.

Three Success Stories

Isaac returned to the Council as a Casual Council Administrator in September 2025 and since then has provided effective project-based administrative support to strengthen the Council’s governance, financial oversight, and information management.

Jayden completed a week of work experience with the Parks and Open Spaces team, receiving comprehensive training in health and safety, tool usage, traffic awareness, and waste management. Despite challenging weather conditions, Jayden demonstrated strong potential and enthusiasm for working in the team across reactive maintenance tasks.

Logan has progressed from seasonal team member to in-house trainee Parks and Open Spaces Operative, gaining qualifications in hedge and brush cutting, pole saw operation, and ride-on mower use. Logan is now practicing these skills at the forefront of the team and showing real leadership potential.

Speaking about the Council’s approach to career development, Georgina Morgan-Denn Chief Officer/Clerk said:

“We believe in investing in our local community by providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and build rewarding careers in public service. Whether in administration, grounds maintenance, or community engagement, we’re committed to supporting the next generation. The progress of Isaac, Jayden, and Logan demonstrates what can be achieved when we invest time, training, and shared experience in developing our team members.”

Key achievements across the team include:

  • Structured electronic databases for legal and financial documents
  • Enhanced financial transparency
  • Comprehensive grounds maintenance training programmes
  • Professional qualifications in specialist equipment operation
  • Hands-on work experience with real community impact

Through initiatives like these, Haydon Wick Parish Council continues to demonstrate that local government offers diverse, rewarding, and dynamic career paths for young professionals committed to serving their community.

National Apprenticeships Week is an annual celebration of the impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the economy. It brings together employers, apprentices, and industry leaders to showcase the value of work-based learning.

Notice of Casual Vacancy
Notice of Casual Vacancy 2333 1750 Liz Matthews

Notice of Casual Vacancy
PARISH OF HAYDON WICK

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a casual vacancy has occurred in the office of Councillor for the Parish Council following the death of Councillor John Fuller on 8th January 2026.

In accordance with Section 89(3) of the Local Government Act 1972, where the vacancy occurs within six months before the day on which the councillor whose office is vacant would regularly have retired, an election shall not be held under Section 89(1) of the above Act, and the vacancy will be filled at the next ordinary elections of councillors on 7th May 2026.

The Council has chosen not to fill the vacancy for the period until that election.

This notice is dated 3rd February 2026

Georgina Morgan-Denn
Chief Officer / Clerk to the Council
HAYDON WICK PARISH COUNCIL

 

New Community Dog Park at Goodearl Field
New Community Dog Park at Goodearl Field 1039 1167 Liz Matthews

We are delighted to announce the official opening of the new fenced dog area at Goodearl Field, a project born from community demand and brought to life through collaborative effort.

The new dog park, located on Goodearl Field between Chatsworth Road, just off Old Blunsdon Road behind the Goodearl Leisure Garden site, opened to an enthusiastic response from residents and their four-legged companions. 

A Community-Driven Initiative 

The dog park became a reality after 131 residents signed a petition in late spring/early summer calling for an enclosed space where dogs could exercise and play. This strong community backing was reinforced when the project was voted the top priority through the Council’s successful Community Choices initiative, clearly demonstrating the high level of demand for such a facility in Haydon Wick. Community Choices is a participatory budgeting scheme that gives residents a direct say in how a portion of the Council’s budget is allocated 

“What began as a community petition quickly became clear as a genuine priority for our residents,” said Cllr Vinay Manro, Chairman of the Council. 

Responsive Design and Local Partnership 

Following initial consultations, the Council responded to feedback that the original proposal was too small for larger dogs and increased the size of the area accordingly. The project also benefited from sponsorship from local dog business Muddy Squad, whose contribution helped offset costs and reflects the Council’s commitment to working with local businesses to deliver high-quality community projects while minimising the financial impact on its residents.  

The Parish Council extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this project a success, from the residents who signed the petition to Muddy Squad for their generous sponsorship. 

A Balanced Approach to Community Spaces 

The dog park complements the Parish’s existing provision of open spaces and play areas, ensuring all members of the community have access to quality outdoor facilities. The new dog park offers both a secure, enclosed space and access to open field areas, providing dogs of all sizes with the freedom to run, play, and socialise together. 

Easter Dog Show Planned 

To mark the opening and celebrate the Easter season, the Parish Council is planning a community Easter Dog Show at the park. With paws, prizes and plenty of Easter cheer, the event will give dogs and their owners a chance to show off their talents, socialise, and enjoy the new space together. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks. 

🚧 A419/A417 Essential Maintenance – March 2026
🚧 A419/A417 Essential Maintenance – March 2026 2560 2499 Liz Matthews

Concrete carriageway repairs coming to the A419/A417 to ensure safer, smoother journeys.

đź“… Key Dates:

  • Wed 18th & Thu 19th March: Overnight closures (8pm-6am)
  • Fri 20th – Mon 23rd March: Full weekend closure (8pm Fri-6am Mon)

âś… No disruption during weekday daytime hours âś… Signed diversion routes in place âś… Follow diversion signs, NOT sat nav

📧 Questions? Contact: Fatima.Alawad@wsp.com

đź”— Click to read the full details and diversion route maps.

A419/A417 Essential Maintenance – Night Closures Starting 27th January
A419/A417 Essential Maintenance – Night Closures Starting 27th January 2560 2499 Liz Matthews

Essential crack sealing work is coming to the A419/A417 to keep your journeys safer and smoother for years to come.

What’s happening? Crack sealing work will prevent serious carriageway damage, reducing the need for major repairs and keeping the road open more often in future.

When? Overnight closures (8pm-6am) from 27th January to 10th February at various locations.

Key dates: 🔸 A417 (27-28 Jan & 29-30 Jan + 2 Feb) 🔸 A419 (3-10 Feb)

Important:

âś… Roads fully open outside these hours

âś… Follow signed diversions – NOT sat nav

âś… Diversion routes clearly marked

đź“Ť Check before you travel and plan alternative routes for affected overnight journeys.

👉 Read full details including specific closure locations and diversion routes here

Replacement of Footbridge Decking at Ray Close and The Chestnuts
Replacement of Footbridge Decking at Ray Close and The Chestnuts 1100 1074 Liz Matthews

On behalf of Swindon Borough Council

We would like to bring to your attention some maintenance works that will be taking place shortly at two footbridges in Haydon Wick (please refer to the location plans below). The works at Ray Close will be taking place on Monday 19th January whilst those at The Chestnuts on Tuesday 20th January.

The work involves the replacement of the deteriorated decking of the footbridges with a GRP alternative. As shown in the attached plans, diversion routes will be in place whilst these works are taking place.

Should you have any queries concerning the above, please contact:

Lawrence Murphy
Transport Project Manager

Highways Programme and Project Delivery
Swindon Borough Council

LMurphy@swindon.gov.uk

Important Community Update: Bird Flu Precautions in Haydon Wick
Important Community Update: Bird Flu Precautions in Haydon Wick 2474 1390 Liz Matthews
Our Parks and Open Spaces Team is here to support you
Following a confirmed case of Avian Flu at Coate Water Park, we want to reassure the Haydon Wick community that robust procedures are in place to protect our parks and open spaces across the parish.
What Swindon Borough Council Rangers Are Doing
SBC Ranger Teams are conducting weekly checks for bird carcasses every Monday at local sites, with collections taking place Monday through Wednesday. This proactive monitoring will continue through to the New Year.
Teams are checking:
  • Lydiard Wardens: Lydiard, Peatmoor, and Moulden Hill
  • Coate Wardens: Coate, Wichelstowe, The Lawns, Shaftsbury, Liden Lagoon, Queens Park, and Stanton
Informational posters are being displayed across our parks to keep everyone informed and safe.
How You Can Help Keep Our Community Safe
When visiting our parks and open spaces, please follow these important precautions:
âś“ Keep to footpaths and keep dogs on leads
âś“ Do not feed wild waterfowl
âś“ Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds
âś“ Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with droppings
âś“ If you keep poultry or other birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear before tending to them
Report and Get Support
Spotted a dead wild bird?
Please report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese, or ducks) or other dead wild birds to:
📧 swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk
Questions or concerns?
Contact the Ranger Team at swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk
More information:
Visit gov.uk/Bird-flu for comprehensive guidance
Your Parks and Open Spaces Team is committed to maintaining safe, enjoyable spaces for our community. Thank you for helping us protect both wildlife and residents by following these guidelines.

Temporary closure of Elsham Way footbridge to install replacement decking.
Temporary closure of Elsham Way footbridge to install replacement decking. 2560 2499 Liz Matthews

On behalf of Swindon Borough Council

There will be a temporary closure of Elsham Way footbridge from Monday 5th January 2026
for a period of approximately 1 week. The closure is required to enable a contractor to
replace the decking of the footbridge and to undertake some localised resurfacing of the
footpath.

During the closure period pedestrians are kindly requested to use the diversion route (red
dotted line) shown in the plan below.

Swindon Borough Council apologies in advance for any inconvenience caused by these maintenance works, but they are an important requirement for the continued and safe operation of the footpath. Thank you for your co-operation and patience during this period, and if you have any queries regarding the above, please email: hppd@swindon.gov.u

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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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