The County Council meeting on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, addressed a range of significant issues, including concerns over proposed private security patrols, the community impact of asylum accommodation, and changes to bus services in Wigston. Key decisions were made regarding the prioritisation of frontline policing, the need for transparency in asylum accommodation arrangements, and the review of specialist SEND services.

Prioritising Frontline Policing and Value for Money

The Council debated a motion concerning a proposed £2 million scheme by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland to fund private security marshals for town centre patrols. Councillor Deborah Taylor, Leader of the Opposition, moved the motion, expressing concern that this would divert funds from frontline policing and create a two-tier system of public safety. She argued that private marshals lack the powers of arrest, training, and accountability of sworn police officers, and that taxpayer money should be invested in fully trained police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

An amendment, moved by Councillor Kevin Crook and seconded by Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray, was also debated. This amendment sought to ensure that any representation made by the council was based on accurate facts and proper governance, supporting the Police and Crime Panel's existing scrutiny process. It noted that the funding was from a crime prevention fund reserve, not directly from the frontline policing budget, and that no final decision had yet been made by the PCC. The amendment also highlighted that the County Council has no direct jurisdiction over the PCC's decisions.

After considerable debate, the amendment was carried by 24 votes to 13, with 10 abstentions. Consequently, the amended motion became the substantive motion before the council. This substantive motion supported the Police and Crime Panel's request for full evidence and the Temporary Chief Constable's proposals to be made available before any decision was taken, and requested the Chief Executive write to the PCC to convey the Council's expectation of transparent, evidence-based decision-making.

Community Impact of Asylum Accommodation

The Council considered a motion moved by Councillor Martin England regarding the community impact of asylum accommodation. The motion noted residents' concerns about the concentration of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) used for asylum dispersal, and the associated pressures on local services, parking, waste management, and community cohesion. It highlighted a lack of transparency regarding these arrangements and the need for local authorities to be informed and consulted.

The Council resolved to write to the Home Secretary seeking greater transparency and advance notification of asylum accommodation arrangements that may significantly impact local communities. The Chief Executive was also requested to write to the Home Office seeking information on asylum accommodation provision within Leicestershire, including the use of HMOs and their potential impact on County Council services. A report outlining any known or anticipated impacts on County Council services was also to be prepared for the appropriate Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The motion was carried with 45 votes in favour and 2 against.

Maintaining Professional Standards, Workforce Sustainability, and Fair Employment Practices in Leicestershire's Specialist SEND Services

Councillor Jewel Miah moved a motion concerning the maintenance of professional standards, workforce sustainability, and fair employment practices within Leicestershire's specialist Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. The motion acknowledged the vital role of these services and the concerns raised regarding potential changes to staffing structures and role requirements. It resolved to request a report to the Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee on the proposed future model of early years SEND advisory support, how service quality, continuity, and workforce sustainability would be maintained, consideration given to professional qualifications, how staff and trade union views would be considered, and assurance that any workforce changes would comply with employment law and council policies.

The motion was supported by members across the chamber, with Councillor Charles Pugsley noting that the council was already committed to these principles. Councillor Deborah Taylor, while supporting the motion, expressed concerns about how the issue had been handled under the current administration, leading to interventions from the Chair to ensure the debate remained at a strategic level. The motion was carried unanimously.

Bus Services in Wigston

Councillor Michael Charlesworth moved a motion concerning significant changes to bus services in Wigston. The motion highlighted the poor level of consultation undertaken by the operator, Arriva, the impact on residents, including elderly individuals and families, and the confusion caused by complex new service routes. It noted that these changes could undermine the Leicestershire Bus Service Improvement Plan and acknowledged the Council's limited ability to influence commercial operators.

The Council resolved to continue engaging with Arriva to request a review of the recent changes, taking into account residents' concerns. The Chief Executive was also to write to the Traffic Commissioner to inquire about their awareness of the lack of consultation before approving these changes. The motion was carried.

Overview and Scrutiny Annual Report

The Council received and noted the Overview and Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025-26. Councillor Deborah Taylor, Chair of the Scrutiny Commission, presented the report, highlighting the significant activity undertaken by scrutiny committees, including reviews of local government reorganisation, the medium-term financial strategy, and various service areas. The report detailed an increase in scrutiny activity and public engagement during the year, with a substantial number of meetings held, reports considered, and webcast views. The Council unanimously approved the motion to note the report.

Position Statements

The Leader of the Council provided a position statement covering the review of the 2025-26 municipal year, priorities for 2026-27, additional investment in adult and children's social care, highways improvements, and the ongoing work related to local government reorganisation. The Lead Member for Children and Families also gave a position statement detailing progress and priorities in delivering services for children and families, including improvements in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services, children in care, and early years provision.