This week in Boston:

Alcohol Sales at Convenience Store Spark Debate Amidst Town Centre Concerns

A contentious application for a premises licence for Mr Tee's Local, a convenience store at 12 Red Lion Street, Boston, has highlighted ongoing challenges with alcohol-related issues in the town centre. The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 14 January 2026 to consider the application, which sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises.

Police Raise Red Flags Over Location

Lincolnshire Police lodged a representation against the application, citing concerns about the store's location within a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) area. This area is known for issues with alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour. The police argued that granting a licence in this heart of the PSPO area would undermine efforts to improve the town centre. They pointed to a history of issues at the premises, including previous licence reviews and revocations related to illegal goods and non-compliance.

Applicant Proposes Strict Conditions

In response to these concerns, the applicant, Perkins Newsagents Ltd, proposed significant amendments to their operating schedule. These included drastically reducing proposed alcohol sales hours to between 12:00 and 18:00 on weekdays and 12:00 to 17:00 on Sundays. They also proposed restrictions on the sale of high-strength alcohol, a requirement for a personal licence holder to be present during alcohol sales, and enhanced CCTV measures.

Despite these concessions, Lincolnshire Police maintained their objection, stating that the fundamental issues remained. The report pack also included statements from Boston Borough Council's Safer Communities Manager and Lincolnshire Police, detailing ongoing problems with street drinking and anti-social behaviour.

The Sub-Committee was tasked with balancing the applicant's right to trade with the council's responsibility to maintain public safety and reduce crime and disorder, particularly in an area already struggling with these issues. The decision could have a direct impact on the perceived safety and atmosphere of Boston's town centre.

Link to meeting.

Council Grapples with Budget, Housing, and Governance Reforms

Boston Borough Council's Full Council convened on Monday 12 January 2026 to tackle a packed agenda, including the annual scrutiny report, proposed changes to contract rules, and the future of local council tax support.

Community Governance Review Moves Forward

A significant item was the presentation of draft recommendations from the Community Governance Review (CGR) Working Group. Following government-led Local Government Reorganisation, the review is exploring the potential creation of a new Parish Council for the unparished area of Boston. The draft recommendations propose establishing a single parish of Boston with 22 councillors, divided into seven wards, with elections potentially held in May 2027. This move could fundamentally alter local governance and representation for residents.

Financial Forecasts and Capital Expenditure

The council received updates on its financial health, including the 2025/26 Mid-Term Treasury Report. A key point was the repayment of a £1 million LOBO loan and its replacement with a Public Works Loan Board (PWLB) loan, projected to save the council approximately £662,000. The report also detailed revisions to the capital programme, including the reallocation of funds within Levelling Up Fund (LUF) projects to support the Crown House development.

Council Tax Support Scheme Under Review

Proposals for the Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27 were presented, aiming to balance the council's finances. The proposed changes include reducing the maximum level of support for various household types, which could significantly impact low-income residents. The report noted that a public consultation on these changes yielded mixed responses, with a majority supporting either retaining current support or reducing it.

Contract Rules and Democratic Appointments

The council also considered proposed amendments to its Contract Procedure Rules to align with the Procurement Act 2023. Additionally, the council was to consider an appointment to the Sir Thomas Meddlecott and Others Charity Trust.

Link to meeting.

Planning Committee Debates Monument Relocation and Housing Development Viability

The Planning Committee met on Tuesday 13 January 2026 to consider several key planning applications, including the controversial relocation of a listed monument and variations to conditions on a housing development that could impact future contributions to local services.

'5 Lamps' Monument Faces a New Home

An application for Listed Building Consent was made to relocate the Grade II listed 5 Lamps monument from its current location off Liqourpond Street to a new public realm scheme in Rosegarth Street, Boston. While the move is intended to better integrate the monument into the town centre, concerns were raised by heritage bodies regarding potential harm during renovation and its integration into the new setting. The report suggested any harm would be less than substantial and could be mitigated by conditions.

Housing Development Viability and S106 Contributions

A significant discussion point was an application to vary conditions on a housing development north of Tytton Lane East, Wyberton. The applicant sought to remove all Section 106 contributions, including those for affordable housing, education, and health, citing the scheme's current unviability. This raised concerns from Lincolnshire County Council and the NHS regarding the impact on essential services. However, the report pack suggested that the benefits of delivering housing, particularly given Boston Borough Council's struggle to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, might outweigh these harms. The decision could have long-term implications for the provision of affordable housing and local infrastructure.

Public Open Space Modifications

The committee also considered modifications to the public open space at Rosegarth Street, including changes to the design of The Wave installation and landscaping to accommodate the 5 Lamps monument.

Link to meeting.

Other Matters

• The Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 15 January 2026 to review draft budget proposals for the next five years and discuss its work programme. The budget proposals include a potential 5% increase to discretionary fees and charges and a 4% vacancy factor on the staffing budget. Link to meeting.

Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.

------ MEETING DATA ------ Cabinet Tuesday 27 January 2026 00:00 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92759 FUTURE false 2026-01-16T11:56:21Z

Councillor Dale Broughton (Leader) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Mike Gilbert (Deputy Leader) (Blue Revolution)

Councillor John Baxter (Portfolio Holder - Housing) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Callum Butler (Portfolio Holder - Environmental Services) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Sandeep Ghosh (Portfolio Holder - Finance and Economic Growth) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Chris Mountain (Portfolio Holder - Infrastructure) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Claire Rylott (Portfolio Holder - Green Spaces and Travel) (Conservative)

Councillor Sarah Sharpe (Portfolio Holder - Heritage, Culture and Tourism) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Helen Staples (Portfolio Holder - Communities) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Amanda Dickinson

Shaun Gibbons

Sadie Russell

Dominic West

------ END OF MEETING DATA ------

------ MEETING DATA ------ Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) Thursday 22 January 2026 00:00 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91245 FUTURE false 2026-01-15T20:12:30Z

Councillor Patricia Marson (Deputy Mayor) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Paul Gleeson (20-20 Independent Group)

Councillor Alison Austin (Independent)

Councillor Emma Cresswell (Boston Independent)

Councillor Anton Dani (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Anne Dorrian (Boston Independent)

Councillor Neil Drayton (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Sandeep Ghosh (Portfolio Holder - Finance and Economic Growth) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Mike Gilbert (Deputy Leader) (Blue Revolution)

Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Jonathan Noble ( Reform)

Councillor Barrie Pierpoint (The Worshipful Mayor of Boston) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)

Phil Perry

Paul Stonebridge

The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) is scheduled to meet on Thursday 22 January 2026 to discuss proposals for the 2026/27 events programme, review the draft budget for the upcoming financial year, and consider an application for Green Flag status for Central Park. The committee will also review its work programme. ### Review of 2025 Events and Funding Proposals for 2026/27 The committee will consider proposals for the 2026/27 events calendar, building on the success of the 2025/26 programme. Two budget options are presented for consideration: Budget Option 1, totalling £41,500, which includes a £17,000 contribution towards a three-day Christmas Festival; and Budget Option 2, at £65,500, which includes the Christmas Festival funding and an additional £24,000 contribution towards an inclusive music event. Both options would also support events such as the Central Park beach and associated activities, the Central Park Skate Jam, and Boston Strongest. The report, authored by Emily Spicer, Assistant Director, Communities and Housing Services, highlights the role of events in fostering community cohesion, increasing footfall for local businesses, and promoting Boston as a town known for its events. The council's commitment to encouraging tourism within the Borough, as outlined in the Local Government Act 1972, is also relevant to this discussion. The report includes an impact report for Boston Borough Council's 2025 events. ### Draft Budget Setting 2026/27 Russell Stone, Director of Finance and Section 151 officer, has prepared a report outlining the draft Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for BTAC, covering the period 2026/27 to 2030/31, with a specific focus on the 2026/27 budgetary position. The committee is recommended to note the 2026/27 MTFP position and recommend it for approval by Cabinet and Full Council. It is also recommended that BTAC propose a Special Expense precept of £779,470 for 2026/27, resulting in a Council Tax Band D charge of £82.44. Furthermore, the committee is asked to recommend an increase in the minimum reserve balance from £70,000 to £100,000 for the period 2026/27 to 2030/31. The report details projected expenditure and income across various service areas, including Open Spaces & Play Areas, Central Park, Public Conveniences, Events, and Town Centre Maintenance. The proposed 1.67% increase in the Band D charge would equate to approximately 3 pence per week for Council Taxpayers. ### Central Park Green Flag Application Phil Perry, Assistant Director Leisure and Local Services, presents a report seeking approval to submit an application for Green Flag Award status for Central Park. This award is managed by Keep Britain Tidy and provides national recognition for well-managed public parks. The report highlights significant investments made in Central Park, including a new skate park, multi-use games area, refurbished children's play area with inclusive equipment, outdoor gym equipment, community and nature gardens, and a Changing Places facility. The development of a comprehensive Management Plan, which has involved extensive consultation with stakeholders and the community, is also detailed. Achieving Green Flag status is expected to promote civic pride, encourage community involvement, support health and wellbeing, and enhance Boston's reputation as a visitor destination. The report notes that the application submission deadline is 2 February 2026. ### Work Programme The committee will review and potentially update its work programme for the current year. The report indicates that a review of the status of Ingelow Park, Boston, a tour of assets including skate park provision, and an update on the Community Governance Review are pending confirmation for potential addition to the work programme in mid-2026. The report also lists the dates for ongoing working group meetings, including the Green Flag Award group and the Small Grants group.

------ END OF MEETING DATA ------

------ MEETING DATA ------ Audit & Governance Committee Monday 19 January 2026 00:00 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91239 FUTURE false 2026-01-15T20:12:32Z

Councillor Barrie Pierpoint (The Worshipful Mayor of Boston) (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor James Cantwell (Conservative)

Councillor Anton Dani (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Anne Dorrian (Boston Independent)

Councillor Neil Drayton (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Jonathan Noble ( Reform)

Councillor Ralph Pryke (Liberal Democrats)

Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor David Scoot (Progressive Independents Boston)

Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)

Adam Cartwright ( Co-opted Independent Member)

Gideon Charles Hall ( Co-opted Independent Member)

Suzanne Rolfe

Ellie Stacey

Nicole Hayes

Sean Howsam

Mark Harrison

James Boyle

Rosie Kelly

Amanda Dickinson

Raymond Flannery

The Audit & Governance Committee of Boston Borough Council is scheduled to convene on Monday 19 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the committee's personal skills audit, an update on internal audit progress, and a comprehensive discussion on treasury management policies and strategies for the upcoming financial year. ### Audit & Governance Committee Personal Skills Audit The committee will consider a report by John Medler, Assistant Director – Governance & Monitoring Officer, regarding an audit of the Audit & Governance Committee's personal skills. This audit is designed to assess the current knowledge, skills, and training needs of the committee members. The findings are intended to inform the committee's self-assessment work and identify areas for development, ultimately supporting effective audit and governance practices within the council. The report outlines that the committee undertakes an annual self-assessment process, following best practice guidance from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA). ### Internal Audit Progress Report A report by Mark Harrison, Audit Manager at Lincolnshire County Council, will provide an update on the progress of internal audits. This report is a requirement under the Accounts and Audit (England) Regulations 2015, which mandates an effective internal audit function to evaluate risk management, control, and governance processes. The report includes a performance dashboard, analysis of ongoing audit reviews, and details on planning and resourcing. It also highlights any overdue management actions from previous audits. The internal audit function aims to strengthen the organisation's ability to create, protect, and sustain value by offering independent, risk-based assurance, advice, and foresight. ### Draft Treasury Management Policy Statement, Strategy, and Annual Investment Strategy 2026/27 The committee is scheduled to scrutinise several key financial documents related to treasury management. These include the Draft Treasury Management Policy Statement, the Draft Treasury Management Strategy Statement, the Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy Statement, and the Annual Investment Strategy for 2026/27. A report by Russel Stone, Director of Finance (S151 Officer), details these documents, which are crucial elements of the council's governance framework and contribute to the Annual Governance Statement. The strategy outlines the council's approach to borrowing and managing investments, prioritising security and liquidity. The report notes proposed increases to the operational boundary and authorised limit for external borrowing to provide flexibility for the S151 Officer to manage capital expenditure when market conditions are favourable. It also proposes an increase in the maximum amount invested in the CCLA Money Market Fund. The documents are presented in draft form as the capital programme is still being finalised. ### Audit of Building Control Service by the Building Safety Regulator Christian Allen, Assistant Director – Regulatory, will present an update on the audit of the Building Control Service conducted by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). The report aims to assure members that the service is meeting the BSR's Operational Standards Rules. The BSR conducts routine inspections of Building Control Bodies (BCBs), such as local authorities, to ensure compliance with the Building Act 1984 and associated legislation. The report indicates that the audit identified only three areas for improvement, primarily concerning the strengthening of arrangements for continuous oversight across all project risk types. The building control team has already begun implementing improvement actions, supported by a corporate ICT Alignment Programme that includes an upgraded ICT platform. ### Audit and Governance Committee Annual Report 2024/2025 The committee will review its Annual Report for the 2024/2025 municipal year, presented by Amanda Dickinson, Democratic Services Team Leader. This report, prepared by John Medler, Assistant Director – Governance & Monitoring Officer, is a requirement of the committee's Terms of Reference and will be presented to the Full Council for approval. The annual report provides an overview of the committee's purpose, membership, meetings, and a summary of its work, including internal and external audit, governance, treasury and accounts, risk management, and training and development activities. The report aims to provide a clear definition of the work undertaken by the Audit and Governance Committee during the specified period. ### Work Programme The committee will also consider its Work Programme for 2025-26. This document outlines the scheduled agenda items and report authors for forthcoming meetings, serving as a planning tool to ensure the committee fulfils its responsibilities for financial oversight, governance, and risk management. Members will have the opportunity to suggest additional topics for inclusion in the programme.

------ END OF MEETING DATA ------

This week in Boston:

Council Tax Support Cuts Loom for Boston's Poorest

Boston Borough Council's cabinet has recommended significant changes to the Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27, potentially impacting the borough's most vulnerable residents. The recommendations, made at a meeting on December 10th, will now go to the full council for approval. Link to meeting.

The Proposed Changes

The proposed changes would reduce the maximum level of council tax support available to low-income households:

• Lone parents: Maximum support reduced to 90%.
• Couples with children: Maximum support reduced to 80%.
• All other households: Maximum support reduced to 75%.

These changes are uprated in line with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Consultation Results

A public consultation on the proposed changes revealed mixed opinions:

• 35% supported retaining the current support levels.
• 43% supported a reduction in support.
• 22% supported none of the options.

The council acknowledged that reducing support levels would likely have significant consequences for many low income / benefit households.

Hardship Fund as a Safety Net?

While the council has the discretion to provide further support for households experiencing exceptional hardship, this support would be funded entirely by the council, unlike the cost of the main council tax support scheme, which is shared with major precepting authorities¹.

Lincolnshire County Council's Stance

Lincolnshire County Council, a major preceptor, stated its support for an option that does not look to increase the cost of the scheme, as this reduces the council tax collected to pay for local services.

Cracking Down on Corruption: Council Updates Fraud Policy

The cabinet also approved an updated Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to financial misconduct. Link to meeting.

Key Policy Points

• The policy outlines clear responsibilities for officers, members, and partners in preventing and detecting fraud.
• It was developed using guidance from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the CIFAS five principles to fight fraud.
• The Section 151 Officer² has been delegated authority to make minor amendments to the policy to reflect changes in legislation or guidance.

Housing Standards and Social Media Under Scrutiny

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on December 9th to discuss a range of issues, including housing standards, social media policy, and environmental strategies. Link to meeting. Unfortunately, no video of the meeting was provided.

Housing Policies in Focus

The committee considered draft policies on:

• Empty Homes: Setting out options to bring empty properties back into use.
• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs): Relating to the licensing of HMOs and maintaining a public register.
• Housing Standards Enforcement: Detailing how the council will deliver private sector housing enforcement.

Revised Housing Allocations

The committee also discussed a revised housing allocations policy, aiming to comply with new regulations and improve outcomes for residents. Key changes include:

• More explicit exemptions for domestic abuse victims and care leavers regarding local connection requirements, as required by the Allocation of Housing (Qualification Criteria for Victims of Domestic Abuse and Care Leavers) (England) Regulations 2025.
• Introduction of additional preference for armed forces members, care leavers, terminally ill applicants, and exceptional risk cases.
• Introduction of a £60,000 financial resource limit and a £500 debt threshold for housing-related debt.

Social Media House Rules

A draft Social Media Policy sets out how the council's social media channels will operate, including house rules for followers, prohibiting abusive, obscene, or discriminatory content.

Greening South and East Lincolnshire

The committee discussed the Tree and Hedgerow Strategy Action Plan, aiming to increase tree and hedgerow cover in South and East Lincolnshire. The plan is based around three core objectives: Protect, Plant, and Participate.

Other Matters

• The cabinet approved recommendations for updated contract procedure rules, reflecting changes in public procurement legislation, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023.
• The cabinet noted a forecast revenue deficit of £0.571m for 2025/26 and the need for continuous focus on savings and efficiency.
• The cabinet noted the quarterly performance and risk monitoring information for quarter two of 2025/26.

There are no upcoming meetings scheduled in the next 7 days.

This week in Boston:

Boston Council Faces Financial Strain Amid Forecast Overspend

The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) convened on November 27th to address critical financial matters, including a forecast overspend and the allocation of small grants. The meeting also included an update from Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP). Link to meeting. Unfortunately, no video of the meeting was provided.

Budget Overruns Loom

The committee discussed the council's financial position for the second quarter of 2025/26. The report presented to the committee indicated a forecast overspend of £15,042. According to the report, this will be covered by reserves as of March 31, 2026, if the position remains unchanged.

Key areas contributing to the variance include:

• Open spaces and play areas: A forecast overspend of £15,648, attributed to play equipment maintenance and employee costs shifted from Events.
• Public conveniences: An overspend of £14,207, due to door replacement costs and associated loss of income.
• Central Park: A surplus of £9,374, largely due to savings on utility costs and the gate locking service not being in operation.
• Events: A surplus of £14,875, resulting from the movement of employee costs to Open Spaces and additional income for space hire.
• Administration: A saving of £27,541, primarily related to the street cleaning service review.

Small Grants Awarded to Benefit BTAC Wards

The committee considered recommendations from the BTAC Grants Working Group regarding applications for Round 3 of the BTAC Small Grant Scheme for the financial year 2025/2026. The report stated that five eligible applications were received in Round 3. The BTAC Grants Working Group met on October 30th, 2025, to review the applications. The report recommended that the committee approve the grant funding award recommendations made by the BTAC Grants Working Group in respect of eligible applications. The reason for the recommendation is to provide grants to local groups that undertake community work which benefits the BTAC Wards of Boston. According to the finance proforma in the report pack, £3,960 is available for revenue costs.

Lincolnshire Housing Partnership Update

Representatives from Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) were scheduled to provide a biennial update to the committee.

Work Programme Discussion

The committee was expected to discuss and update its work programme for the current year.

Other Matters

• An unknown committee met on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Link to meeting. Unfortunately, no video of the meeting was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• Unknown committee on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Link to meeting.
• Unknown committee on Wednesday 10 December 2025. Link to meeting.

This week in Boston:

Council Examines Audit Findings and Financial Health

The Audit & Governance Committee met on November 17th to review the council's financial statements, risk management, and governance arrangements. The meeting, which had no publicly available video, covered a range of critical reports and updates. Link to meeting.

External Audit Completion Report

The committee was scheduled to discuss the External Audit Completion Report 2024/2025 from KPMG, which was expected to issue an unmodified opinion¹ on the council's financial statements. The report pack noted that KPMG had refined its significant risk assessment over valuation of land and buildings after receiving the valuation report.

Financial Statements 2024/25

The committee was scheduled to consider the Financial Statements 2024/25, seeking approval for publication. The report pack stated that the external audit of the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 was now substantially complete. There were two audit differences that had been adjusted:

• A correction to the inflationary increase applied to one asset valuation, resulting in a £1.249m reduction to Property, Plant and Equipment on the Balance Sheet.
• A correction to the land value per acre of a second asset valuation, resulting in a further £1.485m reduction to Property, Plant and Equipment on the Balance Sheet.

Risk Management and Treasury Performance

The committee was scheduled to receive updates on risk management and treasury performance. The Quarter 2 25/26 Risk Report provided an update on risk as at the end of September 2025. The 2025/26 Mid-Term Treasury Report provided an update on Treasury Management performance and activity. The report pack stated that in July the Council repaid its £1m State Street loan at a premium £469,215.75 and replaced it with a £1m Public Works Loan Board (PWLB) loan at 4.81%. The overall saving to the Council over the remaining life of the loan will be approximately £662k.

Policy Updates: Fraud, Contracts, and Information Governance

The Audit & Governance Committee was scheduled to review and potentially approve several key policy updates.

Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy

The committee was scheduled to consider the Counter Fraud Bribery and Corruption Policy, with the intention being to align this for the Councils within the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (S&ELCP).

Contract Procedure Rules

The committee was scheduled to consider Proposed Amendments to the Councils Contract Procedure Rules. The report pack stated that the Council's current Contract Procedure Rules were approved by Council in January 2023, and public procurement legislation has changed since then (with the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 in February 2025).

Information Governance

The committee was scheduled to receive an Information Governance Annual Update 2024/25, providing an update on the Council's activities and compliance in respect of the Data Protection Act 2018, Environmental Information Regulation and Freedom of Information requirements during the period 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025.

Upcoming Meetings

• Unknown committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Link to meeting.
• The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) is scheduled to meet on 27 November 2025, to discuss the council's financial position, the BTAC Small Grant Scheme, and to receive an update from Lincolnshire Housing Partnership. Link to meeting.