TAXI DRIVERS FEATURE: Three years ago, when Coun Mike Bawden (Old Town and Lawns) was leader of the Conservative opposition on Swindon Council, he went on the record supporting taxi drivers.

"I believe they have a just and valid case," he said in 2001 in respect of the cabbies' demand for the right of access to bus lanes around-the-clock.

Has he changed his tune now that he is the leader of the council with the power to enforce his opinion?

"No," he said categorically. "This is an issue I want to re-visit in a calm and constructive manner.

"I have always been supportive of the cab drivers' case and I want this sorted out with a definitive, comprehensive policy.

"My view is that we should get around the table with representatives of the taxi and bus companies and come to an agreement that will be lasting and acceptable to all sides. Negotiations should start from scratch with the council working from a blank piece of paper, without prejudice and preconceptions."

In the meantime, Coun Bawden will be gathering evidence on how other similar towns to Swindon manage traffic flow.

Reading and Oxford, for example, have for a long time treated taxis as a third form of public transport, allowing them into bus lanes at all times. This will now be one of the top issues to be tackled by the council's new lead member for transport and the environment, Coun Jemima Milton (Con, Chiseldon and Wroughton), who has just been moved from the social services portfolio, replacing Coun Ian Dobie (Con, Haydon Wick).