COUNCIL chiefs from Wiltshire and Swindon have started discussions over working more closely together and possibly taking on more powers from central government.

Following the general election in May, plans were announced to devolve more responsibility to local authorities.

Swindon and Wiltshire both expressed an interest but have been told they will need to work together if they are to secure a deal.

With both facing heavy financial pressures, taking on more responsibilities together could be a way of saving money.

Last weekend, the cabinets of Swindon and Wiltshire met, along with the head of the Local Enterprise Partnership, to discuss areas where the two could work together.

One of the key aspects could be on housing, both in the private and public sector.

A joint planning group could be established so the two authorities can work together over any future development west of Swindon

If a formal bid were to be submitted, a request for more funding to develop infrastructure on large scale housing developments, such as the Eastern Villages, could also be included.

The council are also keen to the be given the opportunity to build 200 more council houses but need the authority to borrow more money.

Wiltshire are keen to see a greater integration of health services but as Swindon already has much of this

Earlier this year, Swindon was part of a bid with Wiltshire to create a series of Enterprise Zones across the region, including the town centre, and the council want more support.

Council Leader David Renard (Con, Haydon Wick) says the talks are in an early stage but

He said: “At this stage it is too early to submit a devolution bid. Several months ago we said we were interested in the process and as expected we were asked to work with Wiltshire.

“Last weekend the two cabinets met and discussed possible areas we can work more closely together and then put in a bid.

“It could be that we look to ways just enhance what we are doing at the moment without going for full devolution.

“What I would say is the Local Enterprise Partnership is going to be very important going forward.”

Coun Renard says that above all else, any deal must be in the best interests of Swindon.

“If we are going to come to an agreement with Wiltshire then we have to be certain it is above and beyond what we currently have,” he said.

“There is no point in doing something if it is worse than what we are currently doing.

“And it would also need to lead to savings. At this stage there we have not a time frame for moving forward.”