Local governance: nominations open for town council vacancies
Following the saddening news late last month regarding the passing of Councillor Michael Danks, the town is preparing for changes in its local leadership. Cotswold District Council has officially advised that nominations are now open for the re-run of the election to fill four councillor vacancies.
Nomination packs became available on 5 February and must be hand-delivered to the District Council Offices in Cirencester. The strict deadline for residents to submit their nominations is next week on 13 February.
If more than four candidates step forward, a contested election will be held on 12 March. In other council news, the 2026/27 town budget was officially approved at the recent council meeting, setting the town’s precept at £346,860.73.
Infrastructure: plans submitted for a new railway transport hub
Major changes could be coming to the Moreton-in-Marsh railway station. Architecture practice Fatkin, commissioned by the Town Council and Great Western Railway (GWR), has officially submitted a planning application for a comprehensive new transport hub.
The proposed project aims to deliver a multi-modal hub that better connects rail, bus, taxi, cycling, and pedestrian networks. The consultation phase is currently open for residents to review the plans and submit their feedback on how this might shape the town’s future.
Public health: White House Surgery service updates
Patients of the White House Surgery should take note of a few recent administrative disruptions and upcoming scheduling changes. The surgery experienced significant issues with both incoming and outgoing phone calls earlier this week on 3 February, prompting patients to use alternative online contact methods.
Additionally, the clinic has announced an upcoming afternoon closure; the surgery will be closed from 12:30 PM onward on Thursday 26 February for mandatory staff training.
Community action: volunteers needed for Jubilee Gardens
As 2026 marks the 75th Anniversary of the historic Festival of Britain (running from May to September), the Town Council is determined to get Jubilee Gardens looking its absolute best for the nationally significant milestone.
To prepare, restorative work is being planned, including refurbishing the gates, cleaning the commemorative plaque, and tidying the garden walls.
The council is actively appealing to locals to join a volunteer Working Party. Half-day sessions are being planned for mid-to-late March to help clear invasive ivy from the walls, with skip hire quotes currently being finalised.