Conservative councillor Oladapo Ibitoye was elected chairman, while Green Party leader Tom Butcher was appointed vice chair.
The meeting was marked by comments from outgoing chairman Tim Page about “the death of democracy”, which initially appeared to relate to the leadership vote.
However, Mr Page later clarified that his remarks referred to a separate co-option decision involving former councillor Zaman Choudary.
In a statement to Swindon 24, Mr Page said he had already informed colleagues months earlier that he did not intend to continue as chairman following the May elections.
He said: “I was not removed as Chair of Stratton Parish Council.
“I had informed the Clerk and members of my Party several months ago that I would not be standing after the May elections.
“In fact I voted for Oladapo Ibitoye to succeed me and he has my full confidence.”
Mr Page said his “death of democracy” comment followed a vote against co-opting Mr Choudary back onto the council.
He described the outcome as a “disgusting en bloc vote” by what he called a Conservative and Green coalition, and argued that Mr Choudary had a strong attendance record and significant electoral backing despite narrowly missing out at the recent elections.
He further alleged the decision raised questions about adherence to the Nolan principles of conduct in public life.
Tom Butcher declined to comment on the co-option discussion itself, stating that it took place in a confidential session.
He said the official minutes would show that Mr Choudary was one of three candidates who did not secure enough votes during the process.
Despite the disagreement, the newly elected chairman sought to set out a forward-looking agenda.
Councillor Oladapo Ibitoye, Chairman of Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, said:
“As the new Chair of the Parish Council, my top priority is to build a stronger sense of community wellbeing.
“I want to make sure we continue to expand our investment in our open spaces, youth and community and our buildings so everyone has safe, welcoming places to connect.
“At the same time, I am committed to ensuring we manage our finances responsibly, so we deliver lasting value to every resident.”
Vice chair Tom Butcher described the change in leadership as “a new era for Stratton”.
He said priorities would include improvements to Merton Fields and Delamere Park, further electrification of council buildings and vehicles to cut emissions and costs, and continued community action projects such as litter picking, graffiti removal and tree planting.
Stratton St Margaret Parish Council represents more than 21,000 residents across Upper Stratton, Lower Stratton and Kingsdown.
While parish councils operate at the lowest tier of local government, they manage community assets, open spaces and grants, and represent residents on planning and development matters.
