06:00AM, Tuesday 05 August 2025
Renewed calls for Slough to become part of Greater London have received a response from the MP, who is continuing to ‘push for a thorough consultation’.
Former mayor Mewa S. Mann submitted a community proposal to Slough MP Tan Dhesi in May to start a ‘serious dialogue’ about the borough joining the capital.
More than 20 people signed a letter addressed to Mr Dhesi, outlining the benefits of joining the Greater London Borough Network as local government reorganisation is being considered.
The benefits of joining the network include enhanced access to funding, improved transport connectivity, and broader strategic initiatives in housing, education, healthcare and sustainability.
Mr Mann told the Express that ‘nobody had taken the initiative’ to follow through after many years of discussion, and the support extended far beyond the signatories.
“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 Slough faces public service, infrastructure investment, and long-term planning disparities that ‘separate’ the town from the ‘opportunities and support afforded to London boroughs’.
His letter highlighted the economic benefits and strength of parliamentary voice if Slough were part of Greater London and asked the MP to ‘bring this matter to the attention of the relevant authorities’.
Mr Dhesi thanked the former councillor for his ‘thoughtful reflections and the care for our town’, acknowledging that the proposal followed government proposals in December to reorganise councils to create ‘strategic authorities’ across England.
Options briefed to Slough Borough Council in February included a merger with a West London borough, a single Berkshire unitary authority, joining the Greater London Authority or aligning with Surrey or Hampshire county councils.
“This would represent a major shift in local governance – and potentially the first expansion of London’s boroughs in six decades, and naturally raises important questions about identity, services and long-term development,” Mr Dhesi wrote in a letter on July 30.
He assured petitioners that he was taking ‘views on the matter seriously’ and many points about transport, funding, infrastructure, and cultural ties between Slough and London have been echoed elsewhere.
Mr Dhesi said he was in discussions with both London and Berkshire stakeholders to understand the ‘full implications of any potential change’ and will continue to ‘monitor developments closely’.
“Any decision of this magnitude must be approached with care, transparency and a commitment to public engagement,” he added.
“This is why I will continue to push for a thorough consultation process that listens to the views and concerns of our residents.
“This is ultimately a significant decision for our local council and one that must be guided by what will best serve Slough in the years to come.”
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