Wardens' funds not switched (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Wardens' funds not switched

I WOULD like to comment on the issues raised by Mr Brownlee over neighbourhood wardens.

The wardens' scheme was set up three years ago with Government funding. However, the Government withdrew financial support for Swindon's wardens in March 2005.

To continue to support the Parks and Walcot area, the Conservative administration found resources to continue the scheme while a review took place. Therefore, it is wrong to suggest there has been any misappropriation of funding.

There are other parts of the town that felt they were equally deserving of similar support so we are exploring ways to provide the service in other areas which is economically sustainable.

We are running a pilot scheme in West Swindon as well as the Railway Village and, if successful, we will look to extend the service.

In the "50 Promises" document, we committed ourselves to regenerating the more deprived neighbourhoods and are starting with Cavendish Square. To suggest the priority is being switched away from these areas is incorrect.

COUN D RENARD

Cabinet Member for Housing

Swindon Council