Concern over local accountability as Wiltshire Council cuts off communication with Melksham News

Wiltshire Council has refused to engage with the Melksham News following the publication of an article in its last issue that questioned the council’s public notice policy. By effectively censoring the newspaper, this decision has raised concerns about how it could undermine press freedom, accountability and local democracy. 

In its last issue, the Melksham News reported on criticism of the council for its policy of only using paid-for newspapers to advertise public notices, including the concerns raised by some councillors and the local MP after a motion to debate the issue was denied.

Following this, Wiltshire Council halted all communications with the newspaper, declining to send press releases or respond to any enquiries. Melksham News has received written confirmation from Wiltshire Council stating they do not feel able to engage with the publication.

“Wiltshire Council’s decision to stop engaging with the Melksham News is deeply troubling,” said the newspaper’s operations manager, Joe McCann. “Local newspapers like ours are essential for holding public bodies to account and ensuring transparency in local government. By cutting off communication, the council is evading scrutiny and potentially controlling the flow of information, which is not just a concern for us as journalists but for the public as well.

Dangerous precedent

“This sets a dangerous precedent, where councils can silence critical voices instead of addressing legitimate concerns, ultimately undermining local democracy. This is an unprecedented move for a local council.”

Wiltshire Councillor Jon Hubbard who represents Melksham South ward said, “I am deeply concerned and disappointed by the recent correspondence sent to Melksham Independent News, stating that Wiltshire Council will no longer correspond with the newspaper until they approve of the coverage provided. This kind of stance sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the principles of a free and independent press, which plays a vital role in holding local government to account. I sincerely hope that this decision is not politically motivated, as it would undermine the trust between the council and the residents it serves.

“The press should never be expected to tailor their coverage to meet the approval of those in power—it is their duty to provide fair and accurate reporting to the community. I call on Wiltshire Council to explain why such a step has been deemed necessary and to reaffirm its commitment to transparency, openness, and constructive engagement with all media outlets. Our community deserves nothing less.”

Public interest

Emma Meese, director at the Independent Community News Network (ICNN), who represents the independent press community, added, “The role of a journalist has always been to scrutinise and provide news that is in the public interest. It is concerning when a local authority decides it will not engage with the largest news provider in the area, for calling it out on its actions.

“We have to question the motive behind this decision by Wiltshire Council to try and control the narrative.”

Unprecedented

Ian Drew, Melksham News’ editor, said, “Wiltshire Council’s actions are unprecedented. In this newspaper’s 40+ years of providing news for the local community, we are not aware of any other council anywhere in the country that has done something like this.

“As a family-owned newspaper, we have always been committed to providing the community with reliable and balanced news. For over 40 years, we have a proud record as a trusted source of information, giving a voice to local people and holding local authorities to account. Despite Wiltshire Council’s decision, we will continue to strive to carry out this work.”