Council leaving X amid 'rise in unfiltered content'

Council leaders say engagement on the site has dropped

A town council is leaving X, formerly Twitter, after it claims there has been a "rise in unfiltered and inappropriate content".

Chippenham Town Council, Wiltshire, said it will remove its X accounts on 1 November, as the site no longer "aligns with its values".

The move has been criticised by the local Conservative group, which says the platform is an important tool to keep residents updated.

A spokesperson for X said the site "remains committed to providing a safe and free space for all users to express themselves".

The town council, which is run by the Liberal Democrats, said X has been a "great place" to engage with community, but that "changes on the platform" made leaders "reconsider" using it.

"We have noticed a significant increase in unfiltered and inappropriate content which does not align with the town council’s values," a council spokesperson said.

Chippenham's town council released a public statement saying it will leave X on 1 November

"There has also been a significant decline in engagement and relevant interaction on the platform."

Conservatives in the town voiced their opposition to the plans.

Patrick Cousins said that social media is "crucial" for keeping people informed, especially for those who are younger.

Meanwhile, councillor Nic Puntis wants the council to reconsider: "I will continue to use my platforms to keep residents informed about what is happening in our town."

A spokesperson for X added the company's teams "continue to work towards the goal" of allowing free public speech.