The Finance & Performance Scrutiny committee met on Monday 10 November 2025 to review the performance of the planning service, discuss proposed changes to council tax discounts and premiums, and examine the council's financial outturn for September 2025. The committee also received an update on sundry debts and the council's work programme.

Frontline Service Review - Planning

Members received the annual frontline service review for the planning service. The report highlighted positive progress in staff recruitment and retention. Councillor P Williams queried the progress on the Barwell Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE), noting that while the 2012 application remained live, the Section 106 agreement was now being progressed following positive engagement with Leicestershire County Council and public consultation. It was also noted that local plans could not account for potential local government reorganisation. Regarding the Earl Shilton SUE, there was optimism that the Section 106 agreement would be finalised soon, with the highways authority having given its agreement. Councillor P Stead-Davis inquired about the Wayfinder strategy, and it was confirmed that work and engagement were ongoing, with an update on timescales to be provided. Members were pleased to note that the target for determining minor planning applications was consistently exceeded, although the number of applications handled per officer had increased due to a higher intake earlier in the year. The committee resolved to note the report.

Council Tax - Local Discounts & Premiums

The committee considered proposed changes to council tax discounts and premiums for empty, unoccupied, and unfurnished properties, those undergoing major repairs, and second homes. Members questioned the potential impact of some of the proposed changes, given the limited number of properties affected. It was explained that the aim was to encourage empty properties to be brought back into use more swiftly. The committee requested that the report to the full Council include more detailed information on the number of homes that might be brought back into occupation as a result of these changes. Councillor P Williams moved, and Councillor P Stead-Davis seconded, a resolution that greater detail be included in the report to Council regarding the number of properties that may be brought back into occupation due to the proposed changes.

Financial Outturn - September 2025

The financial outturn position as at September 2025 was presented. Members sought clarification on Table 2, specifically regarding additional budgets and expenditure, and the significance of Table 3. In response to a question about homelessness, it was noted that 136 households were in temporary accommodation for varying periods, which was described as a national trend. Actions were being taken to address the expenditure on temporary accommodation. The committee resolved to note the report.

Sundry Debts Quarter 1 2025-2026

Members were informed of the sundry debt position as at 30 June 2025. The committee resolved to note the report.

Finance & Performance Scrutiny Work Programme

It was reported that the Chair and Vice-Chair would be reviewing the regular reports to assess their relevance. The work programme was noted.