Former mayor calls for Slough to become part of Greater London

A former mayor is leading a renewed call for Slough to become part of Greater London as local government reorganisation options are considered.

Former councillor Mewa S. Mann has submitted a community proposal to Slough MP Tan Dhesi to ‘encourage the beginning of a serious dialogue’ about the borough joining the capital.

More than 20 people signed a letter addressed to Mr Dhesi on May 29 outlining the ‘tangible benefits’ of the town joining the Greater London Borough Network.

“For many of us, Slough is already intrinsically connected to London – not only geographically, but culturally, economically and socially,” wrote Mr Mann.

“We commute to London daily for work and education, we engage in its institutions, and we are part of its cultural and economic heartbeat.

“London is not merely a neighbouring city; it is a city we feel part of.”

Mr Mann said his proposal comes from ‘practical concerns’ and ‘a place of emotional significance’.

“For many in Slough, becoming part of London is not a question of geography, but of identity,” he added.

“It would recognise and formalise the deep-rooted connection our town has with London – a connection that has only strengthened with time.”

The letter referred to benefits such as enhanced access to funding, improved transport connectivity, and broader strategic initiatives in housing, education, healthcare and sustainability.

Mr Mann said Slough faces ‘distinct developmental challenges’ with disparities in public services, infrastructure investment, and long-term planning that ‘separate’ the town from the ‘opportunities and support afforded to London boroughs’.

“As our population grows and becomes increasingly diverse, so too does our need for a stronger, more integrated regional framework,” he added.

The letter asks the Slough MP to ‘bring this matter to the attention of the relevant authorities’ as the transition would require ‘careful evaluation, open consultation and policy considerations’.

Mr Mann later told the Express that the support for the proposal extends far beyond the signatories but ‘nobody had taken the initiative’ to follow through after many years of discussion.

In December, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner outlined proposals to overhaul local government and reorganise councils to create ‘strategic authorities’ across England.

Potential avenues briefed to Slough Borough Council in February included a merger with a West London borough, joining the Greater London Authority, aligning with Surrey or Hampshire county councils or even a single Berkshire unitary authority.

Speaking to the Express, Mr Mann highlighted the economic benefits, the integration of transport and the strength of their parliamentary voice if Slough were part of Greater London.

Moreover, he said many residents had concerns about the effect of the Heathrow third runway on Slough, prompting their support for the proposal.

Mr Dhesi’s office has been approached for comment.