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 £1,573,942.69, 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.
It sparked so many wonderful memories, stories, and smiles around the room. 
