This week in Hinckley and Bosworth:

Planning Rules Set to Change: More Power to Officers, Less to Committees

The council's constitution is undergoing significant updates, particularly concerning how planning applications are decided. The Scrutiny Commission met on Thursday 22 October 2026 to discuss proposed changes that will shift more decision-making power to council officers, with a new gateway test determining which applications will still be heard by the Planning Committee.

These changes are driven by new government legislation aimed at speeding up housing delivery. Under the new system, planning applications will be categorised. Many will be delegated directly to officers for a decision. For others, a nominated officer and member will conduct a gateway test to decide if the application warrants a full committee hearing. This new process is designed to streamline decision-making, but councillors raised concerns about potential pressure on the chair and vice-chair of the Planning Committee and the implications of disagreements between officers and members.

• What this means for you: This reform could mean that more planning applications are decided by officers rather than elected councillors. While intended to speed up the process, it raises questions about transparency and the ability for residents to have their voices heard at committee level. The council is also proposing to update its constitution to reflect these changes.
• Find out more: Scrutiny Commission meeting on 22 October 2026

Budget Pressures Mount: Council Faces Significant Financial Challenges

The council is grappling with significant financial pressures, as detailed in the budget plan for 2027/28 presented to the Scrutiny Commission on Thursday 22 October 2026. Rising inflation, unfunded national pressures, and a historical decrease in government funding are creating substantial shortfalls.

The budget plan highlights projected shortfalls in core spending power due to inflation and increased costs for services like food waste collection and homelessness support. The removal of a one-off government grant and potential business rate reassessments are also contributing to the financial strain. Despite these challenges, the council has maintained services and invested in its estate. However, the budget for 2027/28 anticipates further pressures from pay increases and the ongoing cost of essential services.

• What this means for you: These financial pressures could impact the level and quality of council services in the future. The council is facing difficult decisions about how to balance its budget while meeting the needs of residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
• Find out more: Scrutiny Commission meeting on 22 October 2026

Homelessness Strategy Updated to Tackle Rising Demand

A draft homelessness and rough sleeping strategy for 2026-2029 was noted by the Scrutiny Commission on Thursday 22 October 2026. The strategy has been developed in response to increasing demand, affordability pressures, and a rise in the use of temporary accommodation. It aligns with the government's national plan to end homelessness and focuses on six key priorities: preventing homelessness earlier, making homelessness brief, ending rough sleeping, improving accommodation and housing supply, meeting complex needs, and fostering stronger partnerships.

The council has been awarded over £100,000 in ring-fenced funding to support these efforts, which will be used for prevention, early intervention, rapid re-support for rough sleepers, short-term accommodation, and tenancy sustainment. A supplementary revenue budget of £247,850 is also required for temporary accommodation in 2026/27 due to the council's statutory homelessness duties. Measures to reduce reliance on costly nightly paid accommodation are being implemented, including acquiring family properties and piloting shared housing options for single applicants.

• What this means for you: This strategy is crucial for addressing the growing issue of homelessness in our community. The council is working to prevent people from losing their homes and to provide better support for those who are rough sleeping or in temporary accommodation. The increased funding and focus on prevention aim to create more stable outcomes for vulnerable individuals and families.
• Find out more: Scrutiny Commission meeting on 22 October 2026

Housing Association Review to Focus on Voids, Allocations, and Anti-Social Behaviour

The Scrutiny Commission agreed on Thursday 22 October 2026, to focus its review of housing associations on three key areas: void properties and re-let times, housing association nomination and allocation processes, and the management of anti-social behaviour. The commission also decided to invite registered providers to a December meeting to discuss these issues.

This review stems from concerns raised about the delivery of affordable housing and the management practices of housing associations operating within the borough. The discussion highlighted frustrations regarding the slow pace of affordable housing delivery through planning policies and the management of empty properties. The planning member working group will also examine the relationship between registered providers and affordable housing provision.

• What this means for you: This review aims to improve the effectiveness of housing associations in providing and managing affordable homes. By focusing on voids, allocations, and anti-social behaviour, the council is seeking to ensure that housing is managed efficiently and that residents are living in safe and well-maintained properties.
• Find out more: Scrutiny Commission meeting on 22 October 2026

Local Government Reorganisation Timetable Remains Unclear Amidst Legal Challenges

The Scrutiny Commission received a verbal update on Thursday 22 October 2026, regarding the ongoing local government reorganisation (LGR) for Leicestershire, Leicester, and Rutland. The government's pause on LGR decisions, announced on 7 September 2026, means the timetable for the review remains unclear, with expectations of an announcement within the coming weeks.

The government remains committed to devolution and establishing mayoral strategic authorities. However, the city's pause in support for a mayoral strategic authority has created a lack of consensus. Leicestershire County Council has launched its own legal challenge against the government's decision. The districts remain committed to devolution and are advocating strongly for involvement in discussions. A letter has been sent to Angela Rayner outlining the financial impact of the pause.

• What this means for you: The uncertainty surrounding LGR means that the future structure of local government and the delivery of services could be significantly impacted. The council is actively engaging in legal challenges and lobbying efforts to ensure local interests are protected.
• Find out more: Scrutiny Commission meeting on 22 October 2026

Planning Committee Approves New Industrial Unit and Theatre Refurbishment

The Planning Committee met on Tuesday 20 October 2026, making decisions on several key planning applications. Approval was granted for an industrial/logistics unit at the EMEB Sports and Social Club site in Hinckley, which is expected to create up to 253 jobs. The committee also unanimously approved full planning permission for the refurbishment and remodelling of the Concordia Theatre, a project described as a jewel in the crown for Hinckley.

However, the committee refused planning permission for the conversion of an agricultural building at Clare's Barn Farm in Twycross. The refusal was based on the building's unlawful status due to significant unauthorised rebuilding works and its unsustainable isolated location. An outline planning permission for up to 67 dwellings in Markfield was granted, despite objections, due to the council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.

• What this means for you: These decisions will shape the local economic landscape and community facilities. The approval of the industrial unit signals job creation, while the theatre refurbishment promises improved cultural amenities. The refusal of the barn conversion highlights the importance of adhering to planning regulations, even for seemingly small projects. The Markfield development, while controversial, addresses housing needs.
• Find out more: Planning Committee meeting on 20 October 2026

This week in Hinckley and Bosworth:

Council Stands Firm Against Government's Disastrous Local Government Reorganisation Plans

The Council met on Tuesday 29 September 2026, with a significant portion of the meeting dedicated to a fierce debate over the government's proposed local government reorganisation (LGR) for Leicestershire, Leicester, and Rutland. Councillors expressed widespread opposition to the plans, which they described as a dog's breakfast, a total and utter shambles, and disastrous for the county.

Councillor SL Bray, Leader of the Council, voiced his frustration at the significant time, effort, and money already invested in the LGR process, only for it to be put on pause. He called for the government to abandon the plans entirely, allowing councils to focus on delivering essential services to residents. Councillor CM Allen, Conservative Group Whip, echoed these sentiments, stating that taxpayers should not have to fund the government's incompetence.

The council noted that public consultations showed only 7% support for the government's proposed model. Councillor MT Mullaney, Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety, highlighted that the plans could see residents in Leicestershire governed from miles away from Loughborough, a prospect he deemed unacceptable.

In response, the council resolved to:

• Establish the full cost of LGR to the council.
• Authorise the Leader of the Council to write to the Secretary of State and Prime Minister, demanding reimbursement of incurred costs and clear answers about the future of LGR.
• Request that the Local Government Boundary Commission for England be involved in any future boundary reviews.

An amendment, accepted by the council, reiterated its strong opposition to LGR and urged the government to scrap the plans, advocating for a locally-led process with meaningful public consultation.

• What this means for you: The government's proposed reorganisation could fundamentally change how local services are delivered and funded. The council's strong opposition highlights concerns that these changes could be detrimental to local control and responsiveness, potentially impacting everything from bin collections to social care.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

Council Pledges £5 Million to Tackle Homelessness and Rough Sleeping

A draft homelessness and rough sleeping strategy was discussed at the Council meeting on Tuesday 29 September 2026, with a commitment of £5 million to improve temporary accommodation and work towards ending rough sleeping. The strategy aims to prevent homelessness, meet statutory duties, and provide support for vulnerable households.

Councillor CM Allen welcomed the strategy as very welcome work to help find those who unfortunately find themselves without home somewhere to live in the short term. Councillor C Lambert praised it as a great collaborative piece of work. The consultation on the strategy was open until Friday, 30 October.

• What this means for you: This strategy is crucial for ensuring that individuals and families facing homelessness receive the support they need. The significant investment in temporary accommodation aims to provide safer and more stable environments, reducing the immediate risks associated with rough sleeping.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

New Council Homes Approved for Earl Shilton Regeneration

The regeneration of the former Peggs Close flats site in Earl Shilton took a significant step forward with the approval of plans for 18 new council homes for social rent. Councillor SL Bray expressed his pleasure at this development, which forms part of the council's ongoing commitment to increasing its housing stock.

Councillor CM Allen described the old flats as a complete rabbit warren and welcomed their demolition, anticipating that the new homes will provide excellent homes for council tenants in the future. Construction is expected to begin in January 2027.

• What this means for you: This development will provide much-needed affordable housing for local residents, offering quality one, two, and three-bedroom properties for those on the council's housing waiting list.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

Council Secures £751,000 to Acquire Homes for Homeless Households

The council has approved its participation in the government's Local Authority Housing Fund Round 4 programme, securing £751,000 in capital grant. This funding will be used to acquire six residential properties: three for temporary accommodation and three for resettlement purposes.

Councillor MT Mullaney, Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety, explained that these properties will remain within the council's portfolio and can be used to meet wider housing needs in the future. The total estimated capital cost of the programme is £1.5 million, with the remaining balance funded by the council. The resettlement properties will be specifically for Afghan women and children.

• What this means for you: This initiative directly addresses the critical need for housing for those experiencing homelessness. By acquiring these properties, the council can reduce its reliance on expensive temporary accommodation and provide more stable housing solutions for vulnerable individuals and families.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

Osbaston Postal Address Issue to be Corrected

A motion was passed at the Council meeting on Tuesday 29 September 2026, requesting the Post Office to correct a postal address issue in Osbaston. New homes being built on Barton Road are currently being assigned a Barlestone postcode, causing confusion as neighbouring properties and local amenities use an Osbaston postcode. The council will write directly to Royal Mail to ensure the change is processed promptly.

• What this means for you: This seemingly small administrative change can have a significant impact on residents, affecting everything from mail delivery to emergency service response times. Ensuring correct postal addresses is fundamental to efficient local services.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

Other Matters

The Council also approved its Overview & Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025-26. Mayor REH Flemming provided an update on her recent engagements, highlighting her attendance at various community events across the borough.

• What this means for you: The Overview & Scrutiny Annual Report details how the council is being held accountable for its decisions and performance. The Mayor's engagements showcase the council's presence and involvement in community life.
• Find out more: Council meeting on 29 September 2026

This week in Hinckley and Bosworth:

Council's Finances Under Scrutiny: Underspend and Vacancies Raise Questions

The Leicestershire Partnership Revenues & Benefits Joint Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026, reviewing the partnership's financial performance and operational effectiveness. A key point of discussion was an underspend of £93,942 up to July 2026, primarily due to vacant posts within the service. While this underspend is partly offset by the pay award not yet being fully allocated, a significant portion remains due to unfilled positions. The committee noted that if these vacancies are not filled, a substantial underspend is likely at the year-end.

Councillor L Hodgkins, Executive member for parks, open spaces & neighbourhood services, inquired about the current recruitment position and the risk to the service posed by these vacancies. Sally O'Hanlon, head of service, explained that agency staff are being used to cover key roles, but not at a rate that fully offsets the underspend. She acknowledged ongoing issues in recruiting appropriate staff and mentioned that a piece of work is underway to review the service's structure and capacity.

The committee also discussed the performance of benefits and council tax collection, as well as the ongoing management of arrears and business rates. While overall operational performance is being maintained, there are areas requiring increased focus. The report highlighted that the service has been operating with vacancy savings for several years, which is a strain on existing staff. Consideration is being given to investments to ease these pressures.

The discussion also touched upon the potential impact of the delayed Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the use of reserves. It was noted that the service will continue regardless of LGR, and there's potential for ongoing reserves. However, the delay in LGR means that decisions on how to use these reserves, particularly for IT investments, are being carefully considered.

• What this means for you: Vacant posts in essential services like Revenues and Benefits can lead to delays in processing claims and providing support. The council's efforts to recruit and retain staff are crucial for ensuring these services function effectively, especially for those who rely on them for financial assistance.
• Find out more: Leicestershire Partnership Revenues & Benefits Joint Committee meeting on 24 September 2026

Council Embraces Future-Ready Strategy and Strengthens Housing Safety

The Executive of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, endorsing a new strategy for the council's future readiness and approving a policy to ensure the safety and compliance of its housing stock. The meeting also saw the adoption of a comprehensive cyber security strategy to protect the council's digital infrastructure and services.

Future Ready Council Strategy 2026-28

The Future Ready Council Strategy 2026-28 was endorsed, aiming to ensure the council remains forward-looking, resilient, and customer-focused amidst potential structural changes and public sector reform. Councillor SL Bray, Leader of the Council, expressed frustration over the resources spent on reorganisation efforts, stating, It's just an absolute waste of time, effort and money. The strategy is built around six key priorities: People and Culture; Readiness for Local Government Reorganisation; Early Intervention and Prevention; Service Innovation; Maximising Opportunities for Our People and Communities; and Enabling Place-Based Prosperity. The strategy was approved unanimously.

Landlord Property Safety and Compliance Policy

A new Landlord Property Safety and Compliance Policy was approved, providing a clear framework for managing property safety risks across the council's housing stock. Gary Upton, presenting the report, emphasised that the policy has been co-produced with tenants, ensuring their voices are central to the delivery and improvement of housing services. The policy outlines how the council will identify, manage, and monitor risks related to gas safety, electrical safety, fire safety, asbestos management, water safety, and lift safety. Councillor MT Mullaney, Executive member for housing and community safety, praised the tenant involvement, stating, I'm particularly glad that, as Gary said, we have involved tenants in this process. The policy was unanimously approved.

Cyber Security Strategy 2026-2028

The Cyber Security Strategy 2026-2028 was adopted, setting out a framework for managing cyber security risks across the organisation. Councillor KWP Lynch, Executive member for finance, ICT & asset management, presented the strategy, noting that while it is the first formal adoption, extensive work has already been undertaken to protect vital services. The strategy aims to protect essential services, safeguard information, build trust, strengthen cyber defences, and improve cyber awareness. Councillor Martin Mullaney raised concerns about the council's role as a primary shield for residents against scams and suggested a targeted communication campaign to warn residents about potential impersonation risks. The strategy was unanimously approved.

• What this means for you: These strategies are designed to ensure the council can continue to deliver services effectively, protect your data, and maintain safe housing for tenants. The focus on cyber security is particularly important in an era of increasing online threats, aiming to prevent disruptions that could affect your access to council services.
• Find out more: Executive meeting on 23 September 2026

New Homes Approved in Markfield and Earl Shilton

The Planning Committee of Hinckley and Bosworth Council met on Tuesday 22 September 2026, determining planning applications. Two significant applications were approved: a reserved matters application for 93 dwellings in Markfield and a full planning application for 18 affordable homes in Earl Shilton.

Land North East of Ashby Road, Markfield

Approval was granted for a reserved matters application for 93 dwellings on land northeast of Ashby Road in Markfield. This development is a cross-boundary application, with the majority of the dwellings falling within Charnwood Borough Council's jurisdiction. Only a small portion, approximately 0.2 hectares, is within Hinckley and Bosworth's boundary, designated for vehicular and pedestrian access.

Concerns raised by objectors included overdevelopment, traffic, noise, pollution, tree protection, and strain on local services. Markfield Parish Council also raised objections regarding layout, density, and construction impacts. Leicestershire County Council's Highways Authority and Drainage departments raised no objections.

Councillor SL Bray, Leader of the Council, proposed approval, noting that while the principle of development was controversial at the outline stage, the current application focused on reserved matters. He acknowledged the cross-boundary nature of the application as unsatisfactory but unavoidable. Councillor RG Allen, Leader of the Conservative Group, sought confirmation that Section 106 monies would go to Markfield, which was confirmed by officers. The application was unanimously approved.

Peggs Close, Earl Shilton

A full planning application for 10 houses and 8 flats with associated parking and landscaping at Peggs Close in Earl Shilton was unanimously approved. This development will provide 100% affordable housing for rent, managed by the Borough Council. The site previously housed 28 flats which have now been demolished.

Councillor CM Allen described the previous development as horrible and scary, welcoming its demise. Councillor SL Bray expressed pride in the administration bringing forward this development as part of the ongoing commitment to increase council housing stock.

Concerns were raised by Leicestershire Police regarding the site layout and recommendations were made for designing out crime. The Lead Local Flood Authority had a holding objection pending further information on surface water drainage. Earl Shilton Town Council had previously requested the use of solar panels and EV charging points and expressed concerns about the site appearing cramped. Officers noted that while the proposal resulted in a net loss of dwellings compared to the previous use, it represented a significant improvement and provided much-needed affordable housing. The application was approved with a condition regarding police recommendations.

• What this means for you: These decisions will bring new homes to Markfield and Earl Shilton, with a significant focus on providing affordable housing. This addresses the critical need for housing in the borough, though concerns about infrastructure and local impact have been raised by residents and parish councils.
• Find out more: Planning Committee meeting on 22 September 2026

This week in Hinckley and Bosworth:

Council's Audit Committee Reviews Planning Enforcement and Financial Health

The Audit Committee met on Wednesday 16 September 2026, scrutinising the effectiveness of the council's planning enforcement procedures and reviewing the overall financial health of the organisation. While the council's corporate governance was found to be generally sound, the audit of planning enforcement highlighted areas where documentation and system optimisation could be improved.

Planning Enforcement: Moderate Assurance, Room for Improvement

An internal audit report on planning enforcement for the 2025/2026 period provided a moderate assurance opinion. This means that while the service is generally functioning well, there are specific areas that require attention to enhance its effectiveness and accountability. The audit identified four medium-priority and two low-priority recommendations, with no high-priority findings.

Key areas for improvement include:

• Documentation of Formal Enforcement Decisions: The audit found that supporting records for formal enforcement decisions were not always retained in an easily accessible format after cases were closed. In some instances, planning manager approval could not be evidenced, and standalone enforcement reports were not consistently kept. This doesn't mean decisions were wrong, but rather that the evidence trail for those decisions needs strengthening. The council has committed to introducing more formal enforcement reports to improve this audit trail.
• Outdated Planning Enforcement Policy: The council's Planning Enforcement Policy and Protocol had not been updated since 2015 and did not fully reflect current practices. This is being addressed with an update to these documents.
• System Optimisation: The Uniform case management system, used for planning enforcement, is not being fully optimised for management information and performance reporting. Officers are currently relying on manual workarounds, which can be inefficient and prone to error. The council plans to improve the system's reporting capabilities.
• Performance Reporting Methodology: While Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are reported, there is no documented methodology for how they are calculated. This can lead to variances in reported performance. A formal methodology for KPI definitions is to be introduced.
• Delegated Authority Framework: Arrangements for delegated authority for formal enforcement action have evolved over time and are not consolidated into a single, accessible framework. This is being addressed by consolidating these arrangements.
• Consistency of Record Keeping: Inconsistencies were noted in how information was recorded within the Uniform system, including missing data fields and inconsistent data recording. Efforts are being made to improve consistency.

Councillor Robin Allen commented that the findings suggested enforcement was effective in practice, but the recording of actions needed improvement. He questioned if this was due to the immediate nature of enforcement issues. Charles Black, from internal auditors Forvis Mazars, stated he was not aware of a previous audit of planning enforcement in his four and a half years at the council, meaning this is a fresh assessment of the service.

• What this means for you: These improvements in planning enforcement documentation and system use are crucial for ensuring that the council can effectively manage development and address breaches of planning regulations. Clearer processes and better record-keeping mean greater accountability and transparency in how planning decisions are made and enforced.
• Find out more: Audit Committee meeting on 16 September 2026

Council's Financial Health and Build Back Plan Reviewed

The Audit Committee also received the Internal Audit Annual Report for 2025/2026, which provided an overall audit opinion of Moderate on the council's governance, risk management, and control frameworks. This indicates that while the frameworks are generally adequate, some improvements are required. The report noted that no Limited Assurance reviews or high-priority recommendations were raised during the year, and management accepted all recommendations.

The committee reviewed the external auditor's report on the Build Back Plan for the year ended 31 March 2026. This plan outlines the council's approach to rebuilding assurance following a period of disclaimed audit opinions on its financial statements. The external auditors, Azets, indicated that the council is at the lower end of the risk spectrum for build-back assurance, suggesting less extensive procedures will be needed. The aim is to achieve an unmodified audit opinion by the 2027/28 financial year.

• What this means for you: The council's financial oversight and the Build Back Plan are fundamental to ensuring public funds are managed responsibly and that the council's financial reporting is accurate and reliable. This work underpins the council's ability to deliver services effectively.
• Find out more: Audit Committee meeting on 16 September 2026

Other Matters

Audit Committee Self-Assessment and Forward Plan

The Audit Committee also reviewed an update on its self-assessment action plan for 2026/27, identifying training needs for members and ensuring that Audit Committee minutes are reported to the full council. The committee also noted its forward plan for upcoming meetings, which includes further updates on audit reports and the Corporate Risk Register.

• What this means for you: The committee's self-assessment and forward planning ensure it remains effective in its oversight role, contributing to good governance and accountability within the council.
• Find out more: Audit Committee meeting on 16 September 2026