A motion to encourage Swindon council staff back to the office has failed after a vote.
Councillor Courtliff suggested the idea, stating that a thriving town needs attention and a good mix of business, fun, and sports. He cited research about office workers and how shops benefit when workers spend money locally.
The council employs 2,600 people in Swindon. The motion urged leaders to act quickly and encourage office returns as before; more staff onsite would help town businesses.
Councillor Nukana supported the motion, believing home work pressures women who may feel stuck being a wife and mother. Surveys show women struggle in virtual meetings and may feel unheard in calls.
Councillor Bushell disagreed with the motion, arguing that staffing is the chief executive’s job and the full council shouldn’t decide these things; leaders must work from the office three days weekly. All staff can work in the office, if desired.
Bushell noted flexible work is important for retaining skilled staff and sees no harm to teamwork or ideas. Flexible work matters to 69% of staff, leading Labour and Lib Dems to vote against the plan, which defeated the Conservative’s motion.