A SUPER-COMMITTEE involving councillors from across the political spectrum should lead the recovery from coronavirus and lockdown in Swindon, says Labour group leader Jim Grant.

Coun Grant, whose group is the main opposition to the ruling Conservatives, has written to council leader David Renard to suggest one is put together.

He copied his letter to Lib Dem leader Stan Pajak and independent Oliver Donachie.

Coun Grant wrote: “The council has done a good job under severe pressure during the last 12 weeks and everyone involved should be congratulated for their efforts.

“Now it is time to turn our thoughts to how the council and the town itself recovers from the impact of pandemic.

“In light of the cross party co-operation during the last couple of months I propose the council forms a cross party committee, composed of senior councillors from all parties, to produce a recovery plan which can be agreed for us all to move forward.”

Coun Grant said the committee would look at all the functions of the council – finance, adult social care, children’s services, transport, town centre and economic development, housing and homelessness and communities.

He added: “It is right that the council’s elected representatives come together at this time of crisis and looks to produce a plan which provides a positive future for the town.”

Coun Renard does not immediately look to be taking up the idea and thinks the normal procedures of council would be sufficient.

He said: “Recovery from the lockdown is at the forefront of the council’s planning to get the economy back on its feet as quickly as possible while continuing to protect lives.

“A recovery plan will be coming to cabinet on July 1, which will go through the usual democratic process, and I would expect the scrutiny committee to be fully engaged in reviewing it and holding the administration to account.

"I look forward to that dialogue in the coming months to ensure the best outcomes for our residents.”

Coun Pajak was more enthusiastic.

He said: “I totally support the concept of working together.

"My first choice would be a recovery plan committee or working group allowing and identifying a political consensus on the way forward.

"Such a move would remove the playing politics element and is one of the reasons behind the successful city development of neighbouring Bristol, where there was political consensus.”