ONE of the highest-profile members of Swindon Borough Council’s Conservative cabinet has resigned.

Dale Heenan, who held the portfolio for regeneration, culture and heritage, found himself in a dispute with senior members of the Friends of Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, for which he had responsibility.

They had been alarmed by what they believed was a document showing a decision on whether to keep the Old Town museum closed permanently was imminent – and publicised it online to garner opposition.

Coun Heenan insisted it was simply a discussion document, which did not call for a decision and that it was confidential – which Friends’ chairman Linda Kasmaty disputes.

He criticised Ms Kasmarty for breaking confidence and said she and Labour councillor Jane Milner-Barry, the group’s secretary, “could no longer be trusted.”

That escalated the row until yesterday when Coun Heenan decided to step down. 

He said: “Earlier this morning I spoke with David Renard to let him know I had decided it is in the best interests of everyone that I step aside to focus on my contracting work as we come out of Covid restrictions, and for a fresh pair of eyes to be taken on the significant issues that need to be grasped in the cabinet and Swindon. 

“There is much to be proud about such as the country park improvements I have personally advocated and which are planned for the coming months. 

“Coate Water will have a new play area, the diving board will be cleaned up for the first time in decades, and I really hope the future restaurant happens.

“I have always been a team player, and will always put the team and Swindon first. I will continue to do everything possible to support the Conservatives deliver our agenda for a positive Swindon.”

Coun Heenan will stay on as one of the Conservative councillors for Covingham and Dorcan. His term runs until 2023.

He said: “I will continue to work hard all year round for the residents who elected me, and Swindon, and will do my best to hold everyone to account.

“I also look forward to continuing my charity fundraising with Swimathon in September for Marie Curie Cancer care, and the Muddy Dog Challenge with Juno in October for Battersea.”

Council leader David Renard paid tribute to Coun Heenan, saying: “Coun Heenan was in cabinet for many years and has contributed a great deal and played a big role in the life of Swindon.

“I’m saddened he’s not going to be in cabinet but look forward to his positive contributions in the future.”

Earlier yesterday morning Coun Heenan’s former cabinet colleague Russell Holland had called for him to relinquish work on the museum and art gallery.

He said he was shocked by what he called Coun Heenan’s “wholly inappropriate attack” on the Friends, and that relations between the council and the supporters’ group had been damaged. 

He said: “I hope that this discussion can now get back on track and I hope that Coun Heenan will consider whether or not he is now the best person to continue on this. 

“He is undoubtedly very passionate about the arts and heritage and in fairness has done a number of positive things, but regrettably, for reasons I do not understand, he has misjudged this situation and relations have been soured.

"In my opinion he would be best to now pass this over to a fresh face so that things can get off to a better start.”