The Council of Hinckley and Bosworth voted to oppose the government's decision to reorganise local government in Leicestershire. Councillors expressed strong concerns that the proposed changes would lead to a loss of local democracy, increased council tax, and a reduction in essential services for residents.

Local Government Reorganisation

The council debated and carried a motion to oppose the government's decision to reorganise local government in Leicestershire. This decision followed a lengthy debate where numerous councillors voiced their opposition to the proposed creation of two unitary councils, which they argued would result in a loss of local representation and services.

Councillor Stuart Bray, Leader of the Council, formally moved the motion, stating that the reorganisation was not included in the Labour party's manifesto and therefore the government lacked a mandate to proceed. He expressed that the new proposals would create councils that were remote and out of touch, leading to significant increases in council tax for Hinckley and Bosworth residents. Councillor Bray highlighted that the government's chosen option, put forward by Leicester City Council, was supported by only 7% of respondents in a public consultation, contrasting with a more local proposal that garnered 17% support. He vowed to fight these proposals right up to the doors of the High Court if necessary, even if it meant acting alone.

Councillor Linda Mullaney, seconding the motion, echoed these sentiments, describing the government's proposals as outrageous and particularly detrimental to residents of Hinckley and Bosworth, who she argued would end up paying more and getting less in services back. She emphasised that discretionary services, such as those supporting community groups and events, were at risk of being lost.

Many councillors spoke passionately against the reorganisation. Councillor Dr. James Moore described the situation as centralisation dressed up as devolution and an elected dictatorship, suggesting the proposals were unconstitutional and open to legal challenge. Councillor Martin Cartwright expressed concern that non-statutory services would disappear over time and noted that many residents were unaware of the impending changes. Councillor Keith Lynch drew parallels to the failed metropolitan councils of the 1970s, predicting a similar outcome for the current reorganisation. Councillor Lynda Hodgkins highlighted the invaluable local knowledge of council officers, which she feared would be lost under a more distant administrative structure. Councillor E. Hollick stated that the proposals were unbelievably outrageous and not democratic, as residents in areas like Oadby and Wigston had no say in the matter.

The motion was carried with 27 votes in favour.

Prior to the formal business, Honorary Alderman David Bill was invited to speak. He reflected on the achievements of Hinckley and Bosworth over the years, citing the development of community facilities, parks, and council housing. He also spoke about the importance of community spirit and the positive interactions residents have with each other. Mr. Bill expressed his strong support for the motion, drawing on his experience of previous government-imposed reorganisations that he felt had damaged local government. He also paid tribute to various individuals and officers for their contributions to the borough.