Swindon Borough Council could have a new leader tomorrow.

Both the Conservative and Labour groups of councillors are to meet tonight to vote on their respective leaders for the coming council year. 

And David Renard, the Conservative leader for eight years, faces a challenge from deputy Russell Holland, the cabinet member with responsibility for education and skills who oversees the council’s budget and finances. 

Coun Holland is  standing for leader in a joint bid with fellow cabinet member Gary Sumner – who has responsibility for strategic planning and infrastructure and who would be deputy. 

Another candidate for deputy role is cabinet member for culture and town centre Dale Heenan. 

Coun Renard said he intended to continue in the job.

He said: “My nomination papers are already in, and after all the hard work and plans being put in over the last eight years, and the mandate we have just been given by the people of Swindon – I  am surprised that some councillors think now is the time for a leadership election. 

"But that is their democratic right, and I make no complaints about that. 

“I will make my case tonight and I hope I have the support of the members of the group, and I want to continue to lead the council for the benefit of the people of Swindon.” 

The meeting will be held this evening. 

Leader of the Labour Jim Grant group has also confirmed he is standing for another term as leader.