The Executive of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council met on Wednesday 3 June 2026, approving a Statement of Common Ground on strategic distribution floorspace, a new Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls policy, and a formal Right to Buy policy. The council also endorsed its HRA Estates Services Policy.

Leicester and Leicestershire Statement of Common Ground

The council agreed to become a signatory to the Leicester and Leicestershire Statement of Common Ground on Strategic Distribution Floorspace. This agreement is a crucial piece of evidence for the emerging Local Plan, demonstrating joint working to establish objectively assessed needs for strategic distribution floor space across the functional economic market area (FEMA). The statement identifies a requirement for Hinckley and Bosworth to accommodate approximately 755,800 square meters of this type of floor space by 2046. Of this, around 43% has already been met through existing commitments. The remaining need can be met through sites already consulted on or progressing through the planning system, including Wiggs Farm at Bagworth, Cliffe Hill Farm at Markfield, Wapping and Harrow Farm at Hinckley, and an expansion of Hinckley Park. Signing the statement is considered critical to demonstrating the soundness of the emerging Local Plan and avoiding reliance on older policies and vulnerability to speculative development. Councillor WJ Crooks, Executive member for Planning, moved the report, stating that failure to sign would prevent the Local Plan from being completed. Councillor Daisy Shields raised concerns about potential derailment if neighbouring authorities like Blaby or Harborough did not approve the statement, and also questioned the impact of future local government reorganisation. Councillor Bill Cullen, Chief Executive, clarified that if the Local Plan is adopted by the current council, it will remain the relevant plan for the area regardless of future council structures.

Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Policy and Procedure

The Executive approved the Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Policy and Procedure for 2026-29. This policy provides a clear, consistent, and legally compliant framework for how the council responds to domestic abuse disclosures from residents and tenants, applying to all individuals regardless of gender. Councillor MT Mullaney, Executive member for Housing and Community Safety, highlighted that the policy ensures a safe and consistent response from the council's workforce. Councillor Linda Mullaney welcomed the policy, particularly the provisions regarding the removal of perpetrators from properties. Councillor Michael Cartwright, Executive member for Climate Change, Environment & Rural Affairs, praised the work done on the policy and inquired about the proactivity in upskilling staff. Rachel Burgess, Assistant Director - Transformation and Communities, confirmed that significant efforts had been made to train staff across various departments in completing DASH assessments and risk mitigation. The council also highlighted its own domestic abuse outreach services, which supported 167 survivors in the previous year.

Right to Buy Policy

The council adopted a formal Right to Buy Policy to manage the statutory scheme consistently, transparently, and in compliance with legislation. This policy consolidates existing practices into a single framework, making the process clearer for tenants and officers. It outlines eligibility criteria, how applications are handled, discount application, exemptions, and measures to prevent fraud. Councillor Mullaney stated that the policy formalises existing practices, improving transparency for tenants and assurance for the council. Councillor Michael Cartwright reflected on the historical impact of the Right to Buy policy, noting its significant role in political shifts and expressing concern about the reduction in social housing stock. Councillor Bill Cullen questioned whether the policy prevented families from profiting from buying council houses and asked about the council's right of first refusal on resales. Madeline Shellard, Director (Places Services), confirmed that the policy includes provisions for the right of first refusal and that fraud is addressed within the legislation.

HRA Estates Services Policy

The Executive endorsed the adoption of the HRA Estates Services Policy. This policy establishes a clear and consistent framework for the delivery, management, and monitoring of estate services, including grounds maintenance, communal cleaning, tree management, garage sites, service roads, and estate-based health and safety. Councillor L Hodgkins, Executive member for Parks, Open Spaces & Neighbourhood Services, welcomed the policy, noting its importance in maintaining clean, safe, and attractive neighbourhoods. Councillor Michael Cartwright highlighted the positive work done in areas like garage sites and the pride staff take in maintaining green spaces, which the policy will help to continue. The policy also clarifies responsibilities for both the council and residents in maintaining communal areas and ensuring safety compliance.