The Executive of Hinckley and Bosworth Council met on Wednesday 3 June 2026, approving a Statement of Common Ground on strategic distribution floorspace to aid the local plan, adopting a new policy to address domestic abuse and violence against women and girls, and formalising the council's Right to Buy policy. The council also endorsed its HRA Estates Services Policy.

Leicester and Leicestershire Statement of Common Ground

The council has formally agreed to sign up to the Leicester and Leicestershire Statement of Common Ground on Strategic Distribution Floorspace. This agreement is a crucial step in the preparation of Hinckley & Bosworth's emerging Local Plan. By signing, the council commits to accommodating an additional 755,800 square metres of strategic distribution floorspace. It was noted that 43% of this need has already been met through existing commitments and completions, and the remaining requirement can be fulfilled by sites already identified within the Local Plan or those progressing through the planning application system. These sites include Wiggs Farm at Bagworth, Cliffe Hill Farm at Markfield, Wapping and Harrow Farm on the A5 at Hinckley, and a site south of Soarbrook representing an expansion of Hinckley Park. Councillor WJ Crooks, Executive member for Planning, moved the report, stating that failure to sign would jeopardise the Local Plan's soundness. Councillor MB Cartwright, Executive member for Climate Change, Environment & Rural Affairs, seconded the motion, highlighting the necessity of this step for the Local Plan's progression. The decision was made unanimously.

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 2026-29. This policy establishes a clear, consistent, and legally compliant framework for how the council responds to disclosures of domestic abuse from residents and tenants, regardless of gender. Councillor MT Mullaney, Executive member for Housing and Community Safety, presented the report, emphasising that while the policy uses the term VAWG in line with national strategy, it applies to all residents and tenants. Rachel Burgess, from the council's Transformation and Communities team, highlighted the proactive training provided to staff. The council was commended for being one of only two districts in Leicestershire to have its own domestic abuse outreach service. The decision was moved by Councillor Mullaney and seconded by Councillor Cartwright, and was unanimously approved. Delegated authority was granted to the Assistant Director Transformation and Communities, in consultation with the relevant Executive member, to approve minor amendments to the policy and procedure throughout its lifecycle.

Right to Buy Policy

The council has adopted its Right to Buy Policy. This formal policy consolidates the council's existing practices for managing applications and fulfilling its responsibilities under the statutory Right to Buy scheme, ensuring transparency and consistency for both tenants and staff. Councillor Mullaney moved the approval of the policy, noting that it sets out eligibility, discount application, and exemptions, while also strengthening the council's assurance position in relation to social housing regulation. In response to questions from members, it was confirmed that if a property purchased under the Right to Buy scheme is sold on, the council retains a right of first refusal and will assess the property's condition and any required works before deciding whether to repurchase it. Councillor SL Bray, Leader of the Council, seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.

HRA Estates Services Policy

The Executive endorsed the adoption of the HRA Estates Services Policy. This policy provides 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 responsibilities. Councillor Mullaney moved the adoption of the policy, highlighting that it sets out clear responsibilities for both the council and residents, and supports wider objectives around clean, safe, and attractive neighbourhoods. Councillor MC Bools, Deputy Leader of the Council, seconded the motion. An amendment was noted that the recommendation should have read Executive rather than Scrutiny Commission . The policy was approved and adopted unanimously.