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Weekly updates

Police precept hike sparks budget worries

This week in Leicestershire:

Police Precept Hike Sparks Concern as Council Faces Budgetary Pressures πŸš”πŸ’°

Residents of Leicestershire could see their council tax bills rise to fund policing, as the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel met to discuss the proposed police precept and budget for 2026/27. The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Rupert Matthews, is pushing for an Β£11 increase per annum for a Band D property, a 3.66% rise. However, the Chief Constable has recommended a steeper Β£15 increase, highlighting the significant financial pressures facing the force.

This decision directly impacts households across the county, particularly those on lower incomes who may struggle to absorb additional costs. The proposed increase comes at a time when many families are already facing rising living expenses.

The panel also reviewed the PCC's update report, which detailed activities from October to December 2025. This included updates on commissioning and partnership activities, such as support services for domestic abuse and sexual violence, and progress on the Community Action Programme. While these initiatives aim to improve community safety, the financial burden of funding them falls on residents.

The meeting also touched upon the annual report of the Joint Audit, Risk and Assurance Panel (JARAP), which provides assurance over risk management and internal controls for both the PCC and the Chief Constable. This oversight is crucial for ensuring that public funds are managed effectively and transparently.

Council Charts Course Through Financial Strategy and School Place Planning πŸŒ³πŸ“š

Leicestershire County Council's Cabinet met this week to chart a course through significant financial planning and to ensure sufficient school places for the county's growing population. These decisions have a direct impact on the services available to residents and the future educational opportunities for children.

Navigating the Medium Term Financial Strategy:

The provisional Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30 was a key item on the agenda. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94015 This rolling financial plan is the bedrock of council services, and its success will determine the level of support available to residents, especially the most vulnerable. The strategy aims to align with the Council's Strategic Plan, underpinning its delivery. The challenges of austerity, increased spending pressures, and the impact of inflation have made financial planning particularly difficult in recent years.

Ensuring School Places for the Future:

The School Places Strategy for 2026 to 2031 outlines how the council will meet its statutory duty to provide sufficient high-quality school places. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94015 This is a critical issue for families across Leicestershire, ensuring that children have access to education close to home. The strategy also addresses the growing need for specialist places for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), a vital consideration for ensuring inclusive education.

Climate Resilience and Departmental Plans:

The Cabinet also reviewed the Climate Resilience Delivery Plan, which has shifted its focus to climate adaptation and responding to severe weather events. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94015 This plan is crucial for protecting communities from the impacts of climate change, such as flooding. Furthermore, the Children and Family Services Departmental Plan for 2026-2029 was considered, setting out priorities to improve outcomes for children and families in Leicestershire.

Workforce Matters and Redundancy Policies Under Review πŸ’Ό

The Employment Committee convened to discuss a range of workforce-related issues, including the council's work programme, gender pay gap reporting, and updates on organisational change action plans that include provisions for compulsory redundancies. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94030 These discussions are vital for ensuring fair employment practices and managing the council's workforce effectively.

Gender Pay Gap:

A report detailing Leicestershire County Council's Gender Pay Gap results for 31 March 2025 was presented. This is a statutory requirement under the Equality Act 2010, aiming to promote transparency and address gender inequality in pay. The analysis highlighted that while there isn't unequal pay for the same work, the distribution of roles, with men more likely to hold higher-graded positions, contributes to the gap. Societal factors also play a role. The council's ongoing efforts to mitigate this gap through fair recruitment and progression policies were also discussed.

Workforce Updates and Organisational Change:

The committee received an update on workforce information for the third quarter of the 2025-2026 financial year, noting changes in headcount and Full Time Equivalent (FTE) figures. Sickness absence rates and employment relations, including grievance and disciplinary cases, were also reviewed. Crucially, the committee was updated on Action Plans that include provisions for compulsory redundancy, as part of the council's Organisational Change Policy and Procedure. These plans have direct implications for employees, and their implementation requires careful consideration to minimise impact on individuals and services.

Pension Fund Administration and Future Planning πŸ“ˆ

The Local Pension Board met to discuss the administration, performance, and future planning of the Pension Fund. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94019 These discussions are essential for safeguarding the retirement savings of thousands of local residents and ensuring the long-term financial health of the fund.

Key Administrative and Financial Updates:

The Board received an update on the Pension Fund Administration Report for October to December 2025. This included details on governance, benefit administration, and performance against agreed indicators. Areas flagged as below target, such as Preserved Benefits and Aggregations, were noted as being impacted by the complexity of the McCloud remedy and resource allocation. The report also covered complaints, including an ongoing issue with a college failing to pay pension contributions, and internal audit reports.

The Board also reviewed the Pension Fund's Business Plan and Budget for 2026/27, which includes key changes impacting the Fund, such as the continued implementation of the Pensions Dashboards programme and the McCloud remedy. Draft Funding Strategy and Investment Strategy Statements were also discussed, outlining policies for setting contribution rates and investment approaches. Progress on climate-related disclosures and data improvement initiatives were also highlighted, demonstrating a commitment to responsible and transparent fund management.

Upcoming Meetings

Council tackles budget, climate resilience

This week in Leicestershire:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Budgets and Climate Resilience πŸŒ³πŸ’°

Leicestershire County Council's Cabinet met this week to tackle some of the most significant challenges facing the county, from balancing the books to preparing for a changing climate. The decisions made have far-reaching implications for services and the environment, impacting everyone from young families to older residents.

Navigating a Tight Financial Future: The Medium Term Financial Strategy

The Cabinet was presented with the Provisional Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94015 This crucial document outlines how the council plans to manage its finances over the next four years. While the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement offers some clarity, the council still faces the significant task of setting a balanced budget and Council Tax precept for the coming year. This strategy is the bedrock for all council services, and its success will directly influence the level of support available to residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

The Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee also discussed the MTFS in relation to their specific areas. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92850 They noted that while no specific savings or growth requirements were proposed for their services within the MTFS period, ongoing efficiency reviews are at an early stage. This suggests that future financial pressures could still impact environmental services.

The Scrutiny Commission also reviewed the MTFS, hearing feedback from various Overview and Scrutiny Committees. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92860 This included concerns from the Highways, Transport and Waste Overview and Scrutiny Committee about the significant funding required to bring roads to an ideal standard and the rising costs of Special Educational Needs (SEN) transport. These are direct costs that affect the daily lives and safety of residents.

Preparing for a Changing Climate: The Climate Resilience Delivery Plan

In response to a previous decision to shift focus from carbon reduction to climate adaptation, the Cabinet considered the Climate Resilience Delivery Plan. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94015 This plan aims to prepare the county for the impacts of a changing climate, including severe weather events. The inclusion of co-benefits such as financial efficiency, nature and biodiversity, and health and wellbeing highlights the interconnectedness of environmental action and community welfare. This is particularly important for communities already at risk from flooding or extreme weather, ensuring they are better protected.

The Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee also reviewed this plan, noting its alignment with the council's Environment Strategy and its commitment to tackling climate change. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92850 Their discussions covered flood mitigation and climate resilience measures, with a revised three-year timeframe for implementation.

Ensuring Fair Play: Member Conduct Panel Reviews Complaints βš–οΈ

The Member Conduct Panel met to address complaints made under the Members' Code of Conduct. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94515 While the details of the complaints remain confidential due to their sensitive nature, these meetings are vital for upholding standards of behaviour and maintaining public trust in local government. The exclusion of the press and public from these discussions is a standard procedure to protect the integrity of the investigation process.

Pension Fund Gears Up for Future Financial Security πŸ“ˆ

The Local Pension Committee and the Local Pension Board have been actively engaged in discussions about the future of the Leicestershire Pension Fund. These meetings are crucial for safeguarding the retirement savings of thousands of local residents and ensuring the long-term financial health of the fund.

The Local Pension Committee reviewed the proposed changes to how employers leaving the scheme are assessed, aiming to provide more certainty and protect the fund. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92869 They also discussed the future asset strategy, including increasing protection assets and incorporating local investment targets. This strategic approach to investment is designed to generate sustainable returns while also considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

Updates on the LGPS Central pooling initiative and government reforms were also on the agenda, highlighting the ongoing efforts to streamline pension administration and investment management. The draft Investment Strategy Statement and Responsible Investment Plan for 2026 were considered, demonstrating a commitment to responsible and sustainable investment practices.

The Local Pension Board is also preparing for the upcoming year, reviewing the Pension Fund's Business Plan and Budget for 2026/27. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94019 They are also examining the draft Funding Strategy Statement and Investment Strategy Statement, which are key documents for ensuring the long-term solvency and performance of the fund. Progress on climate-related disclosures and data improvement initiatives were also discussed, underscoring the fund's commitment to transparency and responsible management.

Other Matters

  • The Scrutiny Commission reviewed feedback from various Overview and Scrutiny Committees on the Medium Term Financial Strategy. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92860 This included discussions on the financial implications for health services, children and families, and highways, transport, and waste management. They also reviewed the draft revised Investing in Leicestershire Programme Portfolio Management Strategy.

Upcoming Meetings

Council faces scrutiny over budget gaps

This week in Leicestershire:

Council Faces Scrutiny Over Complaints Against Police and Crime Commissioner βš–οΈ

The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel - Complaints Sub-committee met this week to address complaints lodged against the Police and Crime Commissioner. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/94062 These discussions are crucial for ensuring accountability and maintaining public trust in the oversight of policing.

Sensitive Matters Discussed:

The sub-committee was scheduled to delve into the details of complaints made against the Police and Crime Commissioner. Due to the sensitive nature of these allegations, the press and public were likely excluded from this part of the meeting, in line with Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972. This legislation allows for the exclusion of the public when confidential or sensitive information is being discussed, ensuring that investigations can proceed without prejudice. The report pack provided to attendees contained detailed information relating to these complaints.

The meeting took place in the Goscote Committee Room at County Hall, Glenfield.

Financial Strategy and Environmental Performance Under the Microscope πŸŒ³πŸ’°

Several committees met this week to review the council's financial strategy and its environmental performance, with significant implications for future service delivery and the county's commitment to sustainability.

Medium Term Financial Strategy: A Tightening Budget

The Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Scrutiny Commission both examined the provisional Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92850 http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92860 This strategy outlines the council's financial plans and budget proposals for the next four years.

The reports highlight a projected budget gap, with a shortfall of Β£23 million anticipated in the first year, rising to Β£106 million by the fourth year. This gap is expected to be covered by earmarked reserves initially, but the scale of the deficit points to significant challenges ahead.

  • Demand-Led Services: The strategy anticipates substantial growth in demand for services, particularly in social care, requiring an investment of Β£131 million by 2029/30. This will place considerable pressure on budgets, potentially impacting the level and quality of support available to vulnerable residents.
  • Savings Required: The council faces a substantial savings requirement of Β£199 million. While some savings have been identified, a significant portion remains to be found, raising questions about where these cuts will be made and their impact on essential services.
  • Efficiency Review: An ongoing Efficiency Review, commissioned by Newton Impact, aims to identify cost reductions and service redesigns. The success of this review will be critical in balancing the budget without compromising vital public services.

Environmental Performance: Mixed Progress on Sustainability

The Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee also reviewed the Environmental Performance Report for 2024-25. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/92850 While the council has achieved a 9.5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for its operations compared to the previous year, reaching 8,404 tCO2e, and a 76.5% reduction since the 2008-09 baseline, there are areas of concern.

  • Waste Increase: Office waste rose by 97 tonnes, and the recycling rate fell to 58.6%. This indicates a need for renewed focus on waste reduction and improved recycling initiatives.
  • County-Wide Emissions: For Leicestershire as a county, greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 were 4.33 MtCO2e, a 5.2% decrease from 2022. However, the report concludes that the county is not on track to meet the 2050 net zero target at the current rate of reduction.

The committee also examined the Climate Resilience Delivery Plan, which is shifting focus from solely carbon reduction to climate adaptation and identifying projects that deliver financial savings, social, economic, or environmental benefits. This includes investigating energy efficiency improvements in council buildings and transitioning the council's fleet to electric vehicles.

Corporate Governance and Risk Management: Ensuring Accountability πŸ›‘οΈ

The Corporate Governance Committee met to address a range of critical issues related to the council's integrity, transparency, and accountability. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91267

Key Areas of Focus:

  • External Audit: The committee reviewed the 2024/25 Statement of Accounts, Annual Governance Statement, and Pension Fund Accounts. These documents are vital for ensuring financial probity and providing assurance to residents.
  • Treasury Management: A review of the Quarterly Treasury Management Report for the second quarter of 2025-26 was conducted. This ensures that the council's investments are managed prudently and effectively.
  • Risk Management: Discussions included a Risk Management Update, covering the Corporate Risk Register and the Counter Fraud Two Yearly Action Plan 2024-26. Proactive risk management is essential to protect the council and its residents from potential harm.
  • DBS Checks: A policy for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for elected members was discussed. This ensures that individuals in positions of trust are appropriately vetted.

Other Matters

  • The Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the council's financial strategy, departmental plans, school place provision, and performance reports. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91257 Key topics included the Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026-2030 and the draft Children and Family Services Departmental Plan for 2026-2029.
  • The Adults and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee also reviewed the council's Medium Term Financial Strategy, alongside discussions on the recommissioning of the Dementia Support Service and an update on the Care Quality Commission's assessment of adult social care services. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91251
  • The Highways, Transport and Waste Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed the council's Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026/27 to 2029/30, reviewed the approach to assessing pedestrian crossings, and received an update on the Melton Mowbray Distribution Road project. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91262 The committee also considered the Healthy Streets approach to urban planning.

Upcoming Meetings

GP Access & Public Health Budgets

This week in Leicestershire:

GP Access Under Fire: Residents Face Long Waits as Committee Demands Answers 🩺

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met this week, and the primary focus was the persistent struggle many residents face in accessing GP appointments. Councillors voiced significant frustration over long waiting times, particularly in areas like Melton Mowbray, with concerns that the current system is failing to meet demand. The Integrated Care Board (ICB) presented data showing an increase in appointments, but this did little to quell the unease about the real-world impact on patients.

Melton Mowbray's GP Crisis:

A key point of contention was the deferral of funding for a second GP practice in Melton Mowbray until February 2027. The ICB cited a lack of capital funding and insufficient evidence of prioritised need compared to other areas of Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR). However, local councillors pushed back, highlighting the direct impact on residents.

  • Long Waits: Concerns were raised about extended waiting times for appointments at Latham House Medical Practice in Melton Mowbray.
  • Funding Delays: The decision to pause funding for a new practice was met with disappointment, with councillors questioning what has changed since previous commitments were made.
  • GP Numbers: Questions were raised about the appropriate ratio of GPs to patients and whether current benchmarks are sufficient.

The ICB acknowledged the challenges but stated that national data does not currently prioritise Melton for additional services over other areas. This has led to significant resident concern, with four local councillors attending the meeting to voice their constituents' frustrations.

Broader Access Issues:

Beyond Melton, the committee discussed wider issues affecting GP access across Leicestershire:

  • Increased Appointments, Increased Demand: While the ICB reported a 2.6% increase in GP appointments across LLR and a 0.26% increase in Leicestershire specifically, councillors noted that demand continues to outstrip capacity.
  • Pharmacy First Scheme: The successful uptake of the Pharmacy First scheme, with a 92% increase in utilisation in Leicestershire, was highlighted as a positive step in alleviating pressure on GP services.
  • Did Not Attend (DNA) Rates: A significant rise in DNA rates was noted, with discussions focusing on understanding the reasons behind these missed appointments, particularly for same-day bookings.
  • Digital vs. Traditional Access: Councillors debated the effectiveness of online consultation systems, with some residents experiencing frustration when unable to get through by phone. The ICB clarified that while online consultations are for routine matters, urgent issues should still be addressable by phone.

The committee's discussions underscore the complex challenges in ensuring timely and accessible primary care for all residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable and may struggle with digital access or long waiting times.

Public Health Funding Secured, But Ring-Fencing Creates Tight Budgets πŸ’°

The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee also reviewed the Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for Public Health, which is funded by a grant from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). While a multi-year settlement offers welcome certainty, strict ring-fencing of funds for specific areas like drug and alcohol treatment and smoking cessation is creating tight budgets for other essential public health services.

Key Financial Points:

  • Multi-Year Settlement: For the first time in a decade, a three-year funding allocation provides greater financial predictability.
  • Ring-Fenced Allocations: A significant portion of the grant is now ring-fenced for drug and alcohol treatment, recovery, and prevention, as well as smoking cessation services. These areas are seeing year-on-year increases of around 10%.
  • Limited Flexibility: This ring-fencing means that the remaining budget for other public health services is only increasing by approximately 1.6% to 2% annually, creating pressure for service transformation and efficiency.
  • No General Fund Call: The Public Health department does not draw on the council's General Fund, meaning it must manage within its grant allocation.

The committee also discussed the ongoing Efficiency Review led by Newton Impact, which aims to identify cost savings and service improvements across the council. The Public Health department sees this as an opportunity to highlight how its services can help reduce demand on other high-cost council services, such as adult social care, through preventative measures like falls prevention programmes.

Pandemic Preparedness: Lessons Learned, But Gaps Remain 🦠

An update on pandemic preparedness across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR) was presented, highlighting lessons learned from recent exercises and ongoing efforts to maintain robust plans. While the foundations for preparedness are considered strong, councillors raised concerns about the inclusion of elected members in exercises and the clarity of command and control structures.

Key Takeaways from Exercises:

  • Equitable Resource Access: Ensuring fair access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all healthcare providers, including GPs and care homes, was identified as a critical lesson.
  • Knowledge Retention: The importance of retaining institutional knowledge as staff move on was highlighted.
  • Clear Communication: Consistent and accessible communication strategies are vital to combat misinformation and ensure public trust.
  • Multi-Agency Coordination: Exercises like Tangra, Solaris, and Pegasus tested the coordination between different sectors, including local authorities and the voluntary sector.

Identified Challenges:

  • Funding Mechanisms: Securing adequate and flexible funding remains a persistent challenge.
  • Sustaining Readiness: Maintaining preparedness during inter-pandemic periods, especially concerning the shelf-life of resources like PPE, is difficult.
  • Workforce Fatigue and Retention: The mental and physical toll on healthcare staff during a pandemic requires ongoing attention.
  • Health Inequalities: Pandemics disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, and addressing these inequalities is a key focus.

The committee heard that while national exercises are mandated, there's a desire for greater involvement of elected members in future planning and exercises to ensure a more comprehensive understanding of roles and responsibilities.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Leicestershire Access Plans Discussed

This week in Leicestershire:

Access to Our Countryside: Local Access Forum Discusses Rights of Way and Walking Plans πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈπŸŒ³

The Leicestershire Local Access Forum met on Wednesday, January 7th, to discuss crucial plans for public rights of way and local transport. http://opencouncil.network/meetings/91308 These discussions are vital for ensuring everyone can enjoy our beautiful county, particularly those who rely on these routes for recreation, exercise, and even essential travel.

Key Discussions:

  • Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP): The forum reviewed updates on the ROWIP, a vital document that guides how public footpaths, bridleways, and byways are managed and improved. Ensuring these routes are accessible and well-maintained is particularly important for older residents, people with mobility issues, and families with young children.
  • Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIP): Discussions also covered LCWIPs, which aim to create safer and more connected routes for cyclists and walkers. This is key to promoting active travel, which benefits both public health and the environment.
  • Charnwood Forest Regional Park: Updates were provided on the Charnwood Forest Regional Park, a significant natural asset for the county. Discussions around its management and accessibility are crucial for preserving its ecological value and ensuring public enjoyment.
  • Local Government Reorganisation: The forum also touched upon Local Government Reorganisation, a topic that could potentially impact the structure and responsibilities of local access forums and the management of public rights of way across the county.

The forum also planned to discuss the reconstruction of the Planning and Travel Committee and the appointment of its chairman, as well as nominations for various external bodies. These procedural matters are important for the ongoing governance and effectiveness of the forum in advocating for public access.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Employment Committee

Employment Committee - Thursday, 5 February 2026 10.00 am

The Employment Committee of Leicestershire County Council was scheduled to discuss a range of workforce-related matters, including the council's work programme for the year, gender pay gap reporting, and an update on the workforce for the third quarter of the 2025-2026 financial year. The committee was also set to review progress on organisational change action plans, which include provisions for compulsory redundancies.

February 05, 2026, 10:00 am
Local Pension Board

Local Pension Board - Wednesday, 4 February 2026 10.00 am

The Local Pension Board of Leicestershire Council met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to discuss a range of important reports concerning the administration, performance, and future planning of the Pension Fund. Key topics included the administration report for the third quarter of 2025, the business plan and budget for 2026/27, and updates on the draft funding and investment strategies.

February 04, 2026, 10:00 am
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel - Wednesday, 4 February 2026 2.00 pm

The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to discuss the appointment of an independent co-opted member, review the panel's constitution, and consider the proposed police precept and budget for 2026/27. The meeting also included an update from the Police and Crime Commissioner and the annual report of the Joint Audit, Risk and Assurance Panel.

February 04, 2026, 2:00 pm
Cabinet

Cabinet - Tuesday, 3 February 2026 2.00 pm

The Cabinet of Leicestershire Council met on Tuesday 03 February 2026 to discuss a range of important strategic issues. Key topics included the provisional Medium Term Financial Strategy, the School Places Strategy, and the Climate Resilience Delivery Plan. The Cabinet was also scheduled to consider a Statement of Common Ground relating to housing distribution across Leicester and Leicestershire.

February 03, 2026, 2:00 pm
Local Pension Committee

Local Pension Committee - Friday, 30 January 2026 10.00 am

The Local Pension Committee of Leicestershire Council met on Friday 30 January 2026 to discuss proposed changes to the Fund's cessation approach, review the current and proposed asset strategy, and consider updates on pooling and the draft Investment Strategy Statement. The meeting also covered the Pension Fund Training Needs Self Assessment and the Draft Responsible Investment Plan for 2026.

January 30, 2026, 10:00 am
Member Conduct Panel

Member Conduct Panel - Thursday, 29 January 2026 2.00 pm

The Member Conduct Panel of Leicestershire County Council was scheduled to consider two complaints made under the council's Members' Code of Conduct. The meeting was held in private to discuss these matters.

January 29, 2026, 2:00 pm
Scrutiny Commission

Scrutiny Commission - Wednesday, 28 January 2026 10.00 am

The Scrutiny Commission met to consider the provisional Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026/27 to 2029/30, examining responses from various Overview and Scrutiny Committees. The Commission also reviewed the draft revised Investing in Leicestershire Programme Portfolio Management Strategy for 2026 to 2030.

January 28, 2026, 10:00 am
Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 26 January 2026 2.00 pm

The Environment, Flooding and Climate Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss the council's Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026/27 to 2029/30, its Environmental Performance Report for 2024-25, and the Climate Resilience Delivery Plan. These discussions aimed to provide an overview of the council's financial planning, environmental progress, and strategies for adapting to climate change.

January 26, 2026, 2:00 pm
Corporate Governance Committee

Corporate Governance Committee - Friday, 23 January 2026 10.00 am

The Corporate Governance Committee of Leicestershire County Council met on Friday 23 January 2026 to discuss a range of important financial and governance matters. Key topics included an update on the external audit of the 2024/25 financial statements, the proposed Treasury Management Strategy for 2026/27, and a review of the Council's risk management framework. The committee also considered changes to the Contract Procedure Rules and the Council's Modern Slavery Statement, alongside a report on whistleblowing concerns raised during the previous year.

January 23, 2026, 10:00 am
Highways, Transport and Waste Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Highways, Transport and Waste Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 22 January 2026 2.00 pm

The Highways, Transport and Waste Overview and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss the council's Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026/27 to 2029/30, review the approach to assessing and justifying pedestrian crossings, and receive an update on the Melton Mowbray Distribution Road project. The committee was also set to consider the Healthy Streets approach to urban planning.

January 22, 2026, 2:00 pm
ESPO Finance and Audit Subcommittee

ESPO Finance and Audit Subcommittee - Wednesday, 11 February 2026 10.30 am

February 11, 2026, 10:30 am
Development Control and Regulatory Board CANCELLED

Development Control and Regulatory Board - Thursday, 12 February 2026 2.00 pm

February 12, 2026, 2:00 pm
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel

Special Meeting, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Panel - Thursday, 12 February 2026 2.00 pm

February 12, 2026, 2:00 pm
Member Conduct Panel

Member Conduct Panel - Thursday, 12 February 2026 1.00 pm

February 12, 2026, 1:00 pm
County Council

(Budget Meeting), County Council - Wednesday, 18 February 2026 2.00 pm

February 18, 2026, 2:00 pm