The Cabinet of Leicestershire County Council met on Tuesday 21 July 2026, approving a refreshed Tree Management Strategy and a new Domestic Abuse Reduction Strategy. The meeting also addressed the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation, the consultation on the draft Strategic Plan (2027-2031), and local plans for Blaby and Harborough districts.

Tree Management Strategy Approved

The Cabinet approved the refreshed Tree Management Strategy 2026-2031, which sets out the council's approach to managing its trees and woodlands. The strategy aims to conserve and enhance the tree resource, promote public safety, and support the council's ambition to plant one million trees by 2032. Councillor Kevin Crook, proposing the motion, highlighted the environmental benefits of trees, stating, Trees are, after all, nature's own solar powered carbon capture devices and rather more reliable than some of the expensive green schemes we've seen in recent years. Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray seconded the motion, expressing excitement for the strategy's benefit to local communities and biodiversity.

Local Government Reorganisation Update and Joint Committees

An update was provided on the government's plans for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Leicestershire, Leicester, and Rutland. The decision was made to proceed with a two-unitary proposal, with a boundary modification. The Cabinet noted that this would require a Structural Changes Order, subject to Parliamentary approval. Councillor Jane Moore, Chief Executive, presented the report, emphasizing the need for preparedness and effective delivery. Councillor H. Fowler, who seconded the motion, expressed strong disagreement with the outcome, stating, This was the wrong decision. The county's proposal offered a coherent, lower cost, lower risk path to the reorganisation. The Cabinet approved the establishment of voluntary joint committees to support transition planning and authorised the Chief Executive to take necessary steps to protect the County Council's interests during the transition.

Strategic Plan (2027-2031) Consultation Approved

The Cabinet approved the draft Strategic Plan (2027-2031) for consultation. Councillor Dan Harrison, Leader of the Council, proposed the report, highlighting the importance of a clear and supported strategic plan during the transition to a new local government structure. Councillor C. Abbott seconded the motion, noting that the plan would provide stability and ensure a focus on delivering high-quality services. The consultation will run from 27 July to 9 October 2026.

Annual Treasury Management Report Noted

The Annual Treasury Management Report 2025/26 was noted by the Cabinet. Declan Keegan, Director of Corporate Resources, presented the report, detailing the council's treasury management activities and performance for the financial year. Councillor H. Fowler praised the report, stating, I think it's really positive looking at it. I mean, £16.6 million worth of investment income from the loans portfolio alone for the year is good. He also highlighted the significant debt payoff, noting, Having the lowest debt position in 20 years for the Council was massive because of that £44 million payoff that we did.

Belonging in Education Strategy 2026-2029 Approved

The final Belonging in Education Strategy 2026-2029 was approved by the Cabinet. Tim Browne, Interim Director of Education, Inclusion, Additional Needs, presented the strategy, which aims to ensure all children and young people feel a sense of belonging in their educational settings. Councillor C. Pugsley proposed the motion, emphasizing the collaborative development of the strategy and its strengthened focus on co-production and accountability following consultation. Councillor P. Harrison seconded the motion, stating, This strategy recognises that belonging is vital to children's wellbeing, attendance, achievement and future life chances.

Domestic Abuse Reduction Strategy 2026-2029 Approved

The Domestic Abuse Reduction Strategy 2026-2029 was approved by the Cabinet. Sharon Cooke, Interim Director of Children and Families, presented the strategy, which follows a six-week consultation. Councillor C. Pugsley proposed the motion, highlighting the coordinated approach to reducing domestic abuse and strengthening accountability. Councillor C. Abbott seconded, noting the strategy's focus on prevention, collaboration, and evidence-based interventions.

Response to Blaby District Council Local Plan Consultation Agreed

The Cabinet agreed to the County Council's emerging position on Blaby District Council's Local Plan Regulation 19 consultation. Janna Walker, Assistant Director, Development and Growth, presented the report, outlining the council's support for planned growth but noting concerns regarding transport evidence and policy. Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray moved the recommendations, emphasizing the need for appropriate policies to ensure highways and transport networks are fit for purpose. Councillor H. Fowler seconded, agreeing with the concerns raised about transport infrastructure and the need for change.

Harborough District Local Plan Update

An update was provided on the progress of the Harborough District Council's Local Plan. Councillor Janna Walker presented the report, noting similar issues to the Blaby Local Plan regarding transport impacts and infrastructure delivery. Mr. Phil King, County Councillor for the Gartree Division, spoke during the public session, expressing concerns about the plan's coherence and deliverability of transport infrastructure. Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray moved the recommendations, enabling continued collaborative working. Councillor H. Fowler seconded, agreeing with the concerns about the A6 corridor and the need for a more rational approach to growth post-Local Government Reorganisation.

Action Taken by Chief Executive on Crisis and Resilience Fund Noted

The Cabinet noted the action taken by the Chief Executive to approve the procurement of two contracts relating to the Crisis and Resilience Fund. Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health, Communities, Law and Governance, explained that due to the absence of a June Cabinet meeting, the Chief Executive had approved the procurements to avoid delays. Councillor C. Abbott proposed the motion, and Councillor P. Harrison seconded, thanking officers for their swift action.