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Boston Council: Finances, Solar Farm Route & Grants
This week in Boston:
Council Finances Under Scrutiny: Projected Deficit and Reserve Management
Boston Borough Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, March 25th, to review the council's financial performance for the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. The meeting highlighted a projected net deficit of £0.457m for the General Fund Revenue Budget, a situation that could impact the delivery of essential services, particularly for vulnerable residents.
The deficit is attributed to rising income pressures in areas such as planning services, cremations, and markets. While savings have been identified in senior leadership posts and IT costs, these have not fully offset the increased expenditure. Councillor Sandeep Ghosh, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Economic Growth, and Russell Stone, Director of Finance (S151 Officer), presented the forecast outturn, emphasizing the need for careful financial management.
The council's reserves are projected to remain healthy, with a forecast balance of £18.412m, exceeding the minimum required. However, the report also detailed amendments to the Capital Programme, totalling £1.141m, which will fund projects including the Geoff Moulder Leisure Centre and various Pride in Place
initiatives.
The Cabinet also approved updated Data Protection and Records Management Policies, ensuring compliance with the UK GDPR and the new Data Use and Access Act 2025. These policies are crucial for safeguarding residents' personal information and maintaining public trust.
Solar Farm Delivery Route Variation Sparks Resident Concerns
The Planning Committee met on Tuesday, March 24th, to consider a proposal to vary a condition related to the delivery route for a solar farm located west of Cowbridge Road, Bicker, Boston. The original planning permission, granted in July 2023 for a 49.95MW photovoltaic solar array, included a condition stipulating specific routes for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) during construction to minimise disruption.
The application sought to align Condition 7 with the agreed Construction Management Plan (CMP), which allows for more flexible access and egress. However, local residents have previously raised concerns about the use of Cowbridge Road for construction traffic, citing potential road damage, safety hazards, and disruption. A Breach of Condition Notice had previously been served in relation to this condition.
While the Highway Authority raised no objection to the proposed change, noting reduced peak HGV movements, the committee was asked to consider revised wording for Condition 7. This would allow two-way movements along Cowbridge Road and Ing Drove for the remainder of the construction period, subject to a cap of four two-way HGV movements per day and a requirement for the site operator to maintain a record of movements. The decision on this variation could have a direct impact on the local road network and the quality of life for residents in the vicinity.
The committee also considered a planning application for an external staircase at 2 Leicester Square, Boston PE21 8RR, intended for fire escape purposes for first-floor apartments. This application, submitted by Boston Borough Council, was not expected to have significant adverse impacts on the character of the area or residential amenity.
Small Grant Scheme to Support Local Initiatives
The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) met on Thursday, March 26th, to discuss the council's financial position and review its work programmes. A key item was the consideration of recommendations for the BTAC Small Grant Scheme.
The committee was scheduled to review grant applications submitted in Round 4 of the 2025/2026 scheme. Four eligible applications were received, and the committee was asked to approve funding awards totalling £3,980. These grants are designed to support local projects aligned with the council's corporate priorities, such as Healthy Lives, Safer and Resilient Communities, and the Environment. Decisions on these grants can directly empower community groups to deliver valuable services and activities that benefit residents, particularly those who may be isolated or in need of support.
The committee also received a report on the financial position of BTAC for the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, indicating an anticipated underspend of £22,786, which was recommended for transfer to reserves.
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.
------ MEETING DATA ------
Councillor Stuart Evans (Conservative)
Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Suzanne Welberry (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)
Anna McDowell
Kim Robertson
Martha Rees
Pilgrim's Local Premises Licence Application
The meeting will consider an application for a premises licence for Pilgrim's Local, situated at 3-4 Market Place, Boston. The application, submitted by Mr T Arulunanthapillai, seeks permission for the retail sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises between 08:00 and 23:00, seven days a week.
A report prepared by Anna McDowell, Senior Licensing Officer, details that a relevant representation has been received from Lincolnshire Police. This representation raises concerns regarding the premises' location within a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) area, where alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour are noted as prevalent issues. The police representation, supported by statements from Inspector Cotton and Peter Hunn, Community Safety Manager for Boston Borough Council, requests that the Sub-Committee refuse the grant of the premises licence.
The report pack outlines the steps the applicant intends to take to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. These proposed steps are detailed in the operating schedule submitted with the application.
The Sub-Committee will need to consider all evidence presented, including the applicant's proposals and the representations received, to determine whether to grant the licence, grant it with modified conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, refuse to specify a designated premises supervisor, or reject the application entirely. The decision will be made in accordance with the Licensing Act 20031, taking into account the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy2 and statutory guidance.
The report also highlights that previous applications for a premises licence at this location, made by Jaffna Ltd, were refused by the Sub-Committee in January 2025 and July 2025. The reasons for these refusals included concerns that the applications did not adequately address the licensing objectives and that there were no conditions that could appropriately mitigate the issues of crime and disorder or public nuisance evidenced in the area.
The meeting will also consider a procedural item regarding the exclusion of the public and press from certain parts of the hearing, should it be deemed necessary under the Licensing Act 2003.
------ END OF MEETING DATA ------
-
The Licensing Act 2003 is the primary legislation governing the sale of alcohol and the provision of regulated entertainment in England and Wales. It aims to promote the four licensing objectives. ↩
-
The Statement of Licensing Policy outlines Boston Borough Council's approach to licensing matters, setting out how it will promote the licensing objectives. ↩
Boston Council: Licence debate postponed, rules reviewed
This week in Boston:
Licence Application for Off-Licence in Town Centre Sparks Debate
The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Monday, March 9th, to consider a controversial application for a premises licence for Mr Tee's Local, an off-licence proposed for 12 Red Lion Street, Boston. The application, which sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises, drew significant concern from Lincolnshire Police due to the location's proximity to an area with a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) aimed at tackling alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.
The police representation highlighted that Red Lion Street and surrounding areas are known hotspots for such issues, with alcohol being a major contributing factor. While the applicant proposed amendments to the operating schedule, including significantly reduced hours for alcohol sales and restrictions on the types of alcohol sold, the police maintained their concerns. This situation underscores the delicate balance local government must strike between supporting local businesses and safeguarding community well-being, particularly in areas already struggling with social problems. The decision on such licences can directly impact the safety and atmosphere of our town centre, affecting residents and visitors alike.
The meeting was ultimately cancelled, meaning the decision on this licence application has been postponed.
Council's Operating Framework Under Review
Boston Borough Council's Constitution was scheduled for discussion at a meeting on Thursday, March 12th. The Constitution is the rulebook that governs how the council operates, makes decisions, and ensures transparency and accountability. It's a foundational document, derived from Acts of Parliament and council decisions, that outlines everything from the roles of councillors and officers to the procedures for meetings and how residents' rights are protected.
Understanding the council's Constitution is key to understanding how local government works. It ensures that decisions are made fairly and that the council acts in the best interests of the community. Discussions around the Constitution can touch upon how accessible decision-making is, how effectively services are delivered, and how residents can hold their elected officials to account.
This meeting was scheduled as PENDINGCOUNCILPUBLICATION,
meaning the details were not yet fully available.
Boston Council: Workshop bid sparks noise fears; budget talks loom
This week in Boston:
Vehicle Repair Workshop Bid Sparks Resident Concerns Over Noise and Amenity
The Planning Committee met on Tuesday, February 24th, to consider a contentious proposal to convert a residential garage into a vehicle repair workshop at 117 Woodville Road, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 8BT. The application, which sought to change the use of the property, has raised significant concerns among neighbours regarding potential noise and odour pollution.
Boston Borough Council's Environmental Health department formally objected to the proposal, stating there was a significant risk to the amenity of neighbours due to potential noise and odour.
They emphasised that such activities are best suited for commercial areas and that enforcing any conditions would be challenging. Despite the applicant, Dr Charlotte Lenton, providing additional information and three letters of support from neighbours, the Environmental Health department maintained its objection.
The planning report highlighted that the proposed development could conflict with Policies 1 and 7 of the South East Lincolnshire Local Plan (SELLP) due to its location within a residential area. The report noted that while the visual impact might be minimal, the change in character due to noise and emissions would erode the local residential feel,
potentially impacting the quality of life for those living nearby. The close proximity of neighbouring homes and the nature of the proposed operations were deemed to cause unacceptable harm to residential amenities.
The committee also reviewed an application for a single-storey front extension at South View, Main Road, Brothertoft, Boston, PE20 3SJ. This application was brought before the committee as the applicant is Councillor Stuart Evans, the ward member for the area. The report suggested that while the extension was substantial, it was not considered to cause significant adverse harm and recommended approval with conditions.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a look at what's coming up in the next 7 days:
------ MEETING DATA ------
Councillor Barrie Pierpoint (The Worshipful Mayor of Boston) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Patricia Marson (Deputy Mayor) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Alison Austin (Independent)
Councillor Richard Austin BEM (Independent)
Councillor John Baxter (Portfolio Holder - Housing) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Peter Bedford (20-20 Independent Group)
Councillor David Brown (Conservative)
Councillor Dale Broughton (Leader) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Callum Butler (Portfolio Holder - Environmental Services) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor James Cantwell (Conservative)
Councillor Emma Cresswell (Boston Independent)
Councillor Anton Dani (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Anne Dorrian (Boston Independent)
Councillor Neil Drayton (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stuart Evans (Conservative)
Councillor Sandeep Ghosh (Portfolio Holder - Finance and Economic Growth) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Mike Gilbert (Deputy Leader) (Blue Revolution)
Councillor Paul Gleeson (20-20 Independent Group)
Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor David Middleton (Boston Independent)
Councillor Chris Mountain (Portfolio Holder - Infrastructure) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Jonathan Noble (Reform)
Councillor Ralph Pryke (Liberal Democrats)
Councillor Claire Rylott (Portfolio Holder - Green Spaces and Travel) (Conservative)
Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor David Scoot (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Sarah Sharpe (Portfolio Holder - Heritage, Culture and Tourism) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Helen Staples (Portfolio Holder - Communities) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Suzanne Welberry (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)
Rob Barlow
John Medler
Rhonda Booth
Amanda Dickinson
Shaun Gibbons
Sadie Russell
Sarah Cocker
Nicole Hayes
Peter Hunn
Angela Posey
Ramesh Prashar
Russell Stone
Aileen Whatmore
------ END OF MEETING DATA ------
------ MEETING DATA ------
Councillor John Baxter (Portfolio Holder - Housing) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Suzanne Welberry (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)
Anna McDowell
Kim Robertson
Martha Rees
Application for a Premises Licence - Mr Tee's Local
The primary item scheduled for discussion is an application for a premises licence for Mr Tee's Local, located at 12 Red Lion Street, Boston. The report, prepared by Anna McDowell, Senior Licensing Officer, details the application submitted by Perkins Newsagents Ltd. The applicant seeks to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises from Monday to Saturday between 08:00 and 22:00, and on Sundays from 10:00 to 22:00. Proposed opening hours for the premises are Monday to Saturday from 05:00 to 23:00, and Sundays from 08:00 to 22:00.
A key aspect of the discussion will be the relevant representation received from Lincolnshire Police. This representation raises concerns about the premises' location within Boston town centre, an area subject to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO)1 designed to tackle alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour. The report notes that the applicant has submitted proposed amendments to their operating schedule in response to these concerns. These amendments include a significant reduction in the hours for the sale of alcohol, to 12:00 to 22:00 Monday to Saturday and 12:00 to 17:00 on Sundays. The proposed opening hours have also been reduced to 06:00 to 22:00 Monday to Saturday and 08:00 to 22:00 on Sundays. Further proposed conditions relate to the storage and display of alcohol, restrictions on certain types of alcohol sales, the implementation of a Challenge 25
2 policy, staff training, and CCTV measures.
The report also highlights the council's adopted Statement of Licensing Policy3, which addresses issues arising from premises located within PSPO areas. The Sub-Committee will need to consider the steps outlined in this policy and whether they would be appropriate as conditions on the licence. The report also references guidance issued under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 20034, which clarifies that licensing is not the primary mechanism for controlling general anti-social behaviour once individuals are beyond the direct control of the licence holder.
The Sub-Committee will consider the application in light of the Licensing Act 20035, the council's Statement of Licensing Policy, and the statutory guidance. The report outlines several options for determination, including granting the licence with conditions, modifying conditions, excluding licensable activities, refusing to specify a premises supervisor, or rejecting the application entirely. The Sub-Committee must also have due regard to its public sector equality duty under Section 149 of the Equality Act 20106.
The documents also include statements from Peter Hunn, Boston Borough Council's Safer Communities Manager, and Inspector Ian Cotton of Lincolnshire Police, both of whom express concerns about the potential impact of granting the licence on crime and disorder, particularly in relation to street drinking within the PSPO area. They highlight the ongoing work by the council and police to address these issues and suggest that granting the licence could undermine these efforts.
------ END OF MEETING DATA ------
-
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is a legal tool introduced by the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 that allows local authorities to restrict public access to certain areas or activities if they are having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality. ↩
-
The
Challenge 25
policy is a responsible retailing practice where staff are trained to ask for proof of age from anyone who appears to be under the age of 25 when selling age-restricted products, such as alcohol. ↩ -
The Statement of Licensing Policy is a document published by the local authority outlining its approach to licensing applications and how it will promote the four licensing objectives. ↩
-
Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 requires licensing authorities to have regard to guidance issued by the Secretary of State when carrying out their licensing functions. ↩
-
The Licensing Act 2003 is the primary legislation governing the sale of alcohol, the provision of regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment in England and Wales. ↩
-
The Equality Act 2010 places a duty on public authorities to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not. ↩
Boston Budget & Safety: Council Tax & Crime Strategy
This week in Boston:
Budget Battles and Community Safety Strategies Take Centre Stage at Cabinet
Boston Borough Council's Cabinet met on Wednesday, February 18th, to tackle crucial financial planning and community safety initiatives. The decisions made will shape the council's spending for the next year and beyond, directly impacting the services residents receive and the safety of our neighbourhoods.
Securing Boston's Future: The Annual Budget and Financial Strategy
The Annual Budget Report for 2026/27, along with the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS), was a major focus. This comprehensive report, presented by Russell Stone, Director of Finance (S151 Officer), outlines how the council plans to spend its money over the next five years. It includes the Capital Programme (for major projects), the Treasury Management Policy (how the council manages its money), and the Annual Delivery Plan.
What's at stake? This is where the council decides how much to spend on everything from road repairs and parks to social care and waste collection. It also determines the Council Tax rate for residents. The report highlighted significant budget pressures due to inflation and changing service demands. For vulnerable groups, such as those relying on council-funded support services, these budget decisions can mean the difference between receiving essential help or facing longer waiting lists and reduced provision.
Key recommendations included:
- Approval of the Medium Term Financial Strategy: This sets the financial direction for the council for years to come.
- Setting the Council Tax: The report details the proposed Council Tax for a Band D property in 2026/27. Any increase directly affects household budgets.
- Capital Programme Approval: This outlines planned investments in infrastructure and facilities, which can create jobs and improve local amenities.
The report also detailed the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement and its implications, including changes to grants and business rates income. The council's reserves and proposed efficiency targets were also scrutinised, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing service delivery with financial sustainability.
Keeping Boston Safe: The Community Safety Strategy
The South & East Lincolnshire Community Safety Strategy was also on the agenda. This strategy, presented by Emily Spicer, Assistant Director – Communities & Housing Services, outlines how the South and East Lincolnshire Community Safety Partnership will work to tackle crime and disorder.
What's at stake? This strategy directly impacts the safety and well-being of all residents. It focuses on key areas such as:
- Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB): This includes a focus on neighbour disputes, which can significantly impact the quality of life for residents.
- Understanding the Fear of Crime: By addressing perceptions of crime, the strategy aims to make communities feel safer.
- Place-Based Project Delivery: This means tailored approaches to specific local issues.
- Encouraging Reporting: This helps build intelligence to tackle problems more effectively.
The strategy aims to fulfil statutory duties placed upon authorities under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. The Cabinet was asked to approve the strategy and recommend its adoption by Full Council.
Other matters
- The Planning Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, February 24th. The agenda includes a proposal for a change of use for a property on Woodville Road to a vehicle service and repair workshop, which has drawn objections from Environmental Health due to concerns about noise and odour. The committee will also consider a single-storey front extension at South View in Brothertoft. Link to meeting.
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.
------ MEETING DATA ------
Councillor Barrie Pierpoint (The Worshipful Mayor of Boston) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Patricia Marson (Deputy Mayor) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Alison Austin (Independent)
Councillor Richard Austin BEM (Independent)
Councillor John Baxter (Portfolio Holder - Housing) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Peter Bedford (20-20 Independent Group)
Councillor David Brown (Conservative)
Councillor Dale Broughton (Leader) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Callum Butler (Portfolio Holder - Environmental Services) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor James Cantwell (Conservative)
Councillor Emma Cresswell (Boston Independent)
Councillor Anton Dani (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Anne Dorrian (Boston Independent)
Councillor Neil Drayton (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stuart Evans (Conservative)
Councillor Sandeep Ghosh (Portfolio Holder - Finance and Economic Growth) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Mike Gilbert (Deputy Leader) (Blue Revolution)
Councillor Paul Gleeson (20-20 Independent Group)
Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor David Middleton (Boston Independent)
Councillor Chris Mountain (Portfolio Holder - Infrastructure) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Jonathan Noble (Reform)
Councillor Ralph Pryke (Liberal Democrats)
Councillor Claire Rylott (Portfolio Holder - Green Spaces and Travel) (Conservative)
Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor David Scoot (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Sarah Sharpe (Portfolio Holder - Heritage, Culture and Tourism) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Helen Staples (Portfolio Holder - Communities) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Suzanne Welberry (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)
Rob Barlow
John Medler
Rhonda Booth
Amanda Dickinson
Shaun Gibbons
Sadie Russell
Sarah Cocker
Nicole Hayes
Peter Hunn
Angela Posey
Ramesh Prashar
Russell Stone
Aileen Whatmore
------ END OF MEETING DATA ------
------ MEETING DATA ------
Abbie Marwood
Nick Atkinson
Lewis Humphreys
Lisa Davies
Paul Stonebridge
Councillor Peter Bedford (20-20 Independent Group)
Councillor David Scoot (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Alison Austin (Independent)
Councillor Anton Dani (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stuart Evans (Conservative)
Councillor Andy Izard (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor David Middleton (Boston Independent)
Councillor Barrie Pierpoint (The Worshipful Mayor of Boston) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Claire Rylott (Portfolio Holder - Green Spaces and Travel) (Conservative)
Councillor Lina Savickiene (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Sarah Sharpe (Portfolio Holder - Heritage, Culture and Tourism) (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Suzanne Welberry (Progressive Independents Boston)
Councillor Stephen Woodliffe (Independent)
Phil Norman
Change of Use at 117 Woodville Road
The committee is set to review an application for a change of use at 117 Woodville Road, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 8BT. The proposal seeks to convert an existing garage and adjoining lean-to from residential use to a commercial vehicle service and repair workshop. The applicant, Dr Charlotte Lenton, has outlined proposed working hours of 08:00 to 18:00 Monday to Friday, and 09:00 to 15:00 on Saturdays, with no work on Sundays or bank holidays. It is stated that no more than two vehicles would be present at the premises at any one time.
The report pack indicates that Boston Borough Council's Environmental Health department has objected to the proposal. They expressed concerns about the significant risk to the amenity of neighbours due to noise and odour, stating that These types of activities should be carried out in commercial areas for this reason.
While the applicant provided additional information, including details on noise mitigation and a comparison with other vehicle repair uses, Environmental Health maintained their objection, believing the location is not suitable for a commercial workshop.
Despite three letters of support from neighbouring dwellings, which highlighted the applicant's efforts to mitigate negative impacts and noted the site's historical use for a haulage business, the officer's recommendation is to refuse the application. The report states that the proposed development, by virtue of its nature and location, would result in an adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring dwellings, particularly in relation to noise and activity levels. This is considered to conflict with Policies 2, 3, and 7 of the South East Lincolnshire Local Plan (SELLP) 1 and Paragraph 198 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2. The principle of the development is also deemed unacceptable due to its incompatibility with neighbouring land uses.
Proposed Single-Storey Front Extension at South View, Brothertoft
The committee will also consider a planning application for a proposed single-storey front extension at South View, Main Road, Brothertoft, Boston, PE20 3SJ. The application, submitted by Mr Stuart Evans, seeks to add a bedroom and enlarge an existing bedroom.
The report indicates that initial concerns were raised by the planning officer regarding the design of the proposed extension, specifically its long form, large gable end, and the loss of visual details on the front elevation. Amendments were requested to address these concerns. The final amended design incorporates a hipped roof and an additional window on the northern elevation. While acknowledging that the extension has a substantial built form and results in the loss of some distinctive design features, the officer's report suggests that, on balance, the proposal is not considered to cause such adverse harm as to warrant refusal. The report notes that matching materials will be used and that efforts have been made to soften the impact of the design.
The application is also assessed in terms of residential amenity, flood risk, and Biodiversity Net Gain. It is stated that the extension would not have a detrimental impact on the amenity of the neighbouring property due to existing screening and separation distances. The site is located in Flood Zone 3, but the submitted Flood Risk Assessment confirms that the extension will incorporate flood resilience measures and will not increase flood risk elsewhere. As a householder application, it falls under an exemption for Biodiversity Net Gain requirements. The recommendation is to approve the application with conditions.
------ END OF MEETING DATA ------
Boston Council: Policing & Budget Decisions
This week in Boston:
Policing and Workforce Changes on the Horizon for Boston Council
The Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, February 10th, to discuss critical issues including policing, proposed changes to employee terms and conditions, and updated data protection policies. These discussions have a direct impact on public safety and the council's internal operations, affecting both residents and staff.
Policing in Boston: A Direct Conversation with the Chief Constable
A key agenda item was a verbal report on policing matters, which included a discussion with the Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police. While the specifics of this discussion are not detailed in the meeting notes, such conversations are vital for understanding local crime trends, the effectiveness of police strategies, and how the council can best support community safety initiatives. For residents, this means understanding the resources and focus being placed on keeping Boston safe.
Aligning Workforce Terms and Conditions: What it Means for Staff
The committee also considered the next phase of aligning employee terms and conditions across the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP). This initiative aims to standardise policies for staff shared between Boston Borough Council, East Lindsey District Council, and South Holland District Council.
The proposed changes cover a range of areas, including:
- Overtime rates
- Car loan policies
- Notice periods
- Redundancy pay
- Pay protection
- Annual leave
- Mobility clauses
These adjustments, estimated to have a financial implication of £15,991.00, primarily related to overtime, are intended to create greater consistency. For council employees, this could mean changes to their working arrangements and benefits. The council's commitment to its workforce is tested by these alignment efforts, which aim for efficiency while ensuring fair treatment.
Modernising Data Protection and Records Management
Updated Data Protection and Records Management Policies were also on the agenda. These revisions are crucial for ensuring the council complies with the latest statutory requirements, including the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. The intention is to align these policies across the SELCP.
Key updates include:
- Formalising a complaints process.
- Introducing a
reasonable
search requirement for data requests. - Incorporating the management of AI-generated records.
These changes are vital for protecting residents' personal information and ensuring the council operates transparently and legally. For individuals interacting with the council, this means greater clarity on how their data is handled and protected.
Streamlining Questions at Full Council Meetings
The committee also considered a proposal to amend Council Procedure Rule 11, which governs the asking of questions by members at full council meetings. The current system has sometimes led to extended proceedings due to multiple questions from a single member. The proposed change would limit members to submitting only one question per meeting. This aims to ensure fairer participation and more efficient use of council time, allowing more councillors to raise their concerns.
Upcoming Meetings
Here's a look at what's coming up in the next 7 days:
------ MEETING DATA ------
Sarah Cocker
Nicole Hayes
Peter Hunn
Ramesh Prashar
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 ------
Licensing Sub-Committee - Wednesday, 1 April 2026 - 10.00 am
The Licensing Sub-Committee of Boston Borough Council was scheduled to consider a single application for a premises licence for Pilgrim's Local, located at 3-4 Market Place, Boston. The meeting's agenda focused entirely on this application, with no other substantive items listed.
Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) - Thursday, 26 March 2026 - 6.30 pm
The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) was scheduled to discuss the financial position of the council for the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, review the current and draft work programmes, and consider recommendations for the BTAC Small Grant Scheme.
Cabinet - Wednesday 25th March 2026 6.00 pm
The Cabinet of Boston Council met on Wednesday 25 March 2026 to review the council's financial performance and risk management, and to approve updated data protection and records management policies. Key decisions included noting a projected revenue deficit for the 2025/26 financial year and approving amendments to the capital programme.
Planning Committee - Tuesday 24th March 2026 10.00 am
The Boston Borough Council Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss two planning applications. One application concerned a variation of a condition for a solar farm's delivery route, and the other related to the installation of an external staircase at a property in Leicester Square.
Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 17 March 2026 - 6.30 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Constitution - Thursday 12th March 2026
The Boston Borough Council's Constitution was scheduled for discussion at the meeting on Thursday 12 March 2026. The constitution outlines how the council operates, makes decisions, and ensures efficiency, transparency, and accountability. It is divided into ten parts, covering the articles of the constitution, responsibility for functions, rules of procedure, codes of practice, members' allowance schemes, and management structure.
Licensing Sub-Committee - Monday 9th March 2026 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Full Council - Monday 2nd March 2026 6.30 pm
Boston Borough Council's Full Council convened on Monday 2nd March 2026, with a significant portion of the meeting dedicated to the approval of the annual budget and the setting of Council Tax for the 2026/27 financial year. Key decisions included an increase in Council Tax for a Band D property by £7.83 per annum, and the adoption of a revised Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27, which will provide a maximum entitlement of 90% for lone parents, 80% for couples with children, and 75% for all other working-age households.
Planning Committee - Tuesday, 24 February 2026 - 10.00 am
The Planning Committee of Boston Borough Council was scheduled to consider two planning applications. One application proposed a change of use for a residential garage to a vehicle repair workshop, while the other sought permission for a single-storey front extension to a dwelling.
Cabinet - Wednesday 18th February 2026 6.00 pm
The Cabinet of Boston Council was scheduled to discuss the South & East Lincolnshire Community Safety Strategy and the Annual Budget Report for 2026/27, which includes the Medium Term Financial Strategy, Capital Programme, Treasury Management Policy, and Annual Delivery Plan.
Audit & Governance Committee - Tuesday, 21 April 2026 - 6.30 pm
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Licensing Sub-Committee - Friday, 24 April 2026 - 10.00 am
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Planning Committee - Monday, 27 April 2026 - 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Licensing Committee - Tuesday, 28 April 2026 - 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Regulatory & Appeals Committee - Tuesday, 28 April 2026 - 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 28 April 2026 - 2.00 pm
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Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 28th April 2026 2.00 pm
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Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 30 April 2026 - 6.30 pm
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Cabinet - Tuesday, 5 May 2026 - 6.00 pm
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Full Council - Monday, 18 May 2026 - 6.30 pm
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Key decisions
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2025/26 Q3 Treasury Update Key
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Carbon Footprint Update FY22/23, FY23/24 & FY24/25 Key
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Cabinet · Expected 5 May 2026 (in 18 days)