Last Saturday I had the great pleasure of attending the Diwali celebration hosted by the Swindon Indian association. It was most enjoyable to share in this festival of lights and it made me reflect on the different communities we are lucky to have in the town with all the positive qualities diversity brings.

As well as people from the Indian sub-continent, I know we have many residents who have chosen to make their home here from places as varied as Brazil and China. One of the reasons so many people want to come to Britain in general and Swindon in particular is that our economy is starting to grow again; this is a good place to work.

I would like Swindon to be in the best position possible to take advantage of this new wealth from international entrepreneurs. We already have a strong economic strategy, with Forward Swindon working on the council’s behalf to secure inward investment. We will soon have our Local Plan that will set out how we will provide land for businesses and homes. We have invested in our parks and museums, and secured a good future for our leisure centres.

Nevertheless, I believe we need more to make Swindon play its true role on the national and international stage as a town that is open for business. Just as I am sure that professional sports clubs always seek to play in the highest league possible, so the Borough should have the same drive. That is why I am a passionate supporter of the plans to provide a new Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.

The case in favour is overwhelming. If you think about what makes a good town or city elsewhere, it is that they are complete: they provide food for the soul and imagination, not just a place in which to work, eat, and sleep. Swindon already has an advantage here in our art collection. We have a large, distinctive collection of 20th century art that many recognise as one of the best in the country and more people should see it. The town is sufficiently large that we should attract more touring exhibitions like the current works by Turner that are on display. The present museum and gallery is not adequate for the task, nor are there suitable alternative spaces in existing council buildings.

I am delighted that we have the support of an enthusiastic group of Friends of the Museum and Art Gallery, who are assisting us with their time, contacts, and passion for the project. Next month we will make our submission for funding to the Heritage Lottery Fund – the body that paid for the improvements to Lydiard House – and its decision is due next spring.