This week in North West Leicestershire:

Self-Build Homes Approved on Countryside Land, Balancing Housing Needs with Environmental Concerns

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, to consider applications for self-build dwellings. A key decision involved granting Permission in Principle (PIP)[^1] for two self-build homes on land adjacent to 49 Church Lane in Ravenstone. This site is currently agricultural land and lies outside the designated Limits to Development, meaning the proposal goes against the council's Local Plan policies S2 and S3, which aim to direct new housing to within settlements.

However, the committee heard that there are significant material considerations supporting the application. The council has a duty to provide self-build plots due to a substantial unmet demand, and the proposed development is accessible via sustainable transport. Officers recommended permission, noting that the loss of agricultural land would be minimal and that an acceptable design could be achieved at the technical details consent stage.

The committee also discussed a similar application for a single self-build dwelling on land to the east of 56 Loughborough Road in Coleorton. This site also falls outside the Limits to Development and is within the Swannington Neighbourhood Plan area, conflicting with its Policy H2. Again, the report highlighted the crucial need to meet the demand for self-build plots. While the impact on the character of the area was considered limited, and an acceptable design could be achieved, the Swannington Neighbourhood Plan, adopted in March 2023, is less than five years old and contains policies restricting development in the countryside.

The outcomes of these discussions will shape the availability of self-build opportunities for residents looking to create their own homes, while also navigating the council's commitment to protecting the rural environment.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Planning Committee meeting documents.

This week in North West Leicestershire:

Council Cabinet Grapples with Housing Needs and Regeneration Plans

The Cabinet met on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, to discuss a range of critical issues impacting the district, from the future of sports facilities to the regeneration of a key town centre site. A significant focus was placed on the strategies for playing pitches, built facilities, and open spaces, which will shape how residents access recreation and community activities for years to come.

Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Community Services, presented the proposed strategies for playing pitches, built facilities, and open spaces. These documents, developed by consultants Kavanagh, Knight, and Page, aim to identify current and future needs across the district. The strategies highlight specific shortfalls, such as a lack of youth football pitches and the need for improved pitch quality. For open spaces, the reports identify areas where parks, gardens, and natural greenspace provision needs enhancement. These strategies are crucial for ensuring that new developments contribute positively to the community's well-being and that existing facilities are maintained and improved. The Cabinet was asked to approve these strategies as evidence for the emerging North West Leicestershire Local Plan, meaning they will directly influence planning decisions and future investment in community infrastructure.

The Cabinet also considered the review and consultation approach for three key housing service policies: Reasonable Adjustments, No Access, and Aids and Adaptations. Councillor Andrew Woodman, Housing and Property Portfolio Holder, explained that these policies are vital for ensuring vulnerable residents can access council housing services and live safely in their homes. The Reasonable Adjustments Policy aims to remove barriers for people with disabilities, while the No Access Policy outlines procedures for essential property access. The Aids and Adaptations Policy covers essential home modifications. Consulting tenants and stakeholders on these policies is a crucial step to ensure they meet the needs of those who rely on them most.

A report on the regeneration project for Coalville Old Market Hall was also on the agenda, signalling progress on a key initiative to revitalise the town centre.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Cabinet meeting documents.

Audit and Governance Committee to Scrutinise Financial Health and Risk Management

The Audit and Governance Committee met on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, to conduct essential oversight of the council's financial standing, ethical standards, and risk management processes. The committee reviewed draft accounting policies for the 2025/26 financial year, a critical step in ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the council's financial reporting. These policies must align with the CIPFA Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting, and the report highlighted significant changes that will impact how the council accounts for its assets.

A key focus was the Standards and Ethics Report for the fourth quarter of 2025/26. This report provides insight into how complaints against councillors are handled, aiming to identify any breaches of the Councillor Code of Conduct and inform targeted training. It also covers important ethical indicators, including concerns related to modern slavery and whistleblowing, ensuring the council upholds the highest standards of integrity.

The committee also received an update on the accounts and audit requirements stemming from Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). This is a vital area of oversight, particularly during periods of structural change, to ensure financial accountability and public trust are maintained.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed the Corporate Risk Register, which outlines the council's key risks and the strategies in place to manage them. This proactive approach to risk management is essential for safeguarding council services and public funds, ensuring that potential challenges are identified and addressed before they can significantly impact residents. Updates on internal audit progress and the annual plan for 2026/27 were also presented, providing assurance on the effectiveness of internal controls.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Audit and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Taxi Driver Licence Application Under Review

The Taxi and Private Hire Sub Committee met on Friday, 1 May 2026, to consider a report concerning a dual driver's licence. The details of this application were not made public, as the item was expected to be discussed in private session, citing exempt information under the Local Government Act 1972. This process ensures that sensitive personal or commercial information is protected while still allowing for necessary council oversight.

You can find more details about this meeting in the Taxi and Private Hire Sub Committee meeting documents.

This week in North West Leicestershire:

Council Gears Up for Local Plan Decisions: Warehousing, Housing, and Design Take Centre Stage

The Local Plan Committee met on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, to tackle crucial decisions that will shape the future development of North West Leicestershire. Key among the discussions were proposals for new strategic warehousing sites, updates to housing policies, and the adoption of a new design guide.

The committee considered the formal adoption of the Good Design Guide for North West Leicestershire as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This guide, developed with input from various stakeholders, aims to set clear expectations for the design of new developments, aligning with national planning policy. It covers aspects from character and context to sustainability and public spaces. The guide has already undergone public consultation, with feedback leading to minor adjustments.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the Local Plan Policies Update. The committee was asked to agree on policy wording for several key areas, including:

• Strategic Warehousing Site Allocations: Seven proposed sites, covering approximately 225 hectares and potentially offering over 700,000 sqm of floorspace, were up for discussion. These sites are located in areas such as south of East Midlands Airport (EMP90), north of Remembrance Way, Kegworth (EMP73 part), and near J11 of the A42 (Mercia Park II) (EMP82). The proposed policies include requirements for masterplans, landscape assessments, and infrastructure improvements. The scale of these allocations means they could significantly impact local employment and the environment.
• Housing Types and Mix (Policy H4): Revisions to this policy were considered to ensure the creation of mixed and balanced communities by reflecting changing household needs. The proposed changes aim to update the recommended housing mix based on the latest evidence and apply the policy to new residential developments of 10 or more dwellings.
• Policy IF8 - Update Regarding Lorry Parking: The committee reviewed an update to policy concerning parking, with a specific focus on the pressing issue of lorry parking facilities in the district. While acknowledging the national shortage, officers did not propose allocating specific sites for new lorry parks due to ecological concerns and other land use preferences.
• Long-Term Management of Community Assets and Stewardship: A new policy was discussed to ensure that new open spaces and community facilities provided through development are properly managed and maintained in perpetuity.
• Policy AP1 - Design of New Development: This policy sets out the council's expectations for high-quality design in all new developments, emphasizing attractiveness, functionality, and integration with the local area.
• Isley Woodhouse Allocation – Updated Policy Wording (Policy IW1): The committee reviewed updated policy wording for this new settlement, focusing on design quality, affordable housing, land uses, and integration into the rural setting.

The decisions made by the Local Plan Committee will have a direct impact on the types of homes built, the availability of employment land, and the overall character of the district for years to come.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Local Plan Committee meeting documents.

Audit and Governance Committee to Review Financial Policies and Risk Management

The Audit and Governance Committee is set to meet on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, with a packed agenda focusing on financial oversight, standards, and risk management. A key item will be the review of the draft accounting policies for the 2025/26 financial year. These policies are fundamental to how the council's financial statements are prepared and must comply with the CIPFA Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting. Significant changes to these policies, including mandatory revaluation cycles for property, plant, and equipment, will be scrutinised.

The committee will also receive a Standards and Ethics Report for the fourth quarter of 2025/26, detailing how complaints against councillors are handled and identifying any trends that might require further training. This report also covers ethical indicators such as modern slavery, whistleblowing, and the use of RIPA powers.

Furthermore, the committee will be briefed on the accounts and audit requirements arising from Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). This is a critical area, as it ensures that the financial integrity of the council is maintained during periods of significant structural change, providing assurance to residents and stakeholders.

Updates on internal audit progress, strategy, and the annual plan for 2026/27 will also be presented. This includes identifying any significant control failings or weaknesses. The committee will also review the Corporate Risk Register, which outlines the council's key risks and the mitigation actions in place. This ensures that potential challenges are identified and managed proactively, safeguarding council services and public funds.

You can find more details about these discussions in the Audit and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Other Matters

The Community Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 23 April 2026. While a summary is not yet available, the committee's remit typically involves reviewing council services and performance, providing an important check and balance on the council's operations.

The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday, 28 April 2026. Their agenda includes discussions on financial matters such as supplementary estimates and capital approvals, as well as strategies for playing pitches, sports facilities, and open spaces. They will also consider housing service policies and the regeneration project for Coalville Old Market Hall.

The Taxi and Private Hire Sub Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday, 1 May 2026, to consider a dual driver's licence application.

This week in North West Leicestershire:

Homes for Self-Builders Approved Amid Heritage Concerns

The Planning Committee has given the go-ahead for five self-build homes in Coleorton, despite concerns raised by heritage bodies about the impact on the nearby Grade II* Registered Park and Garden of Coleorton Hall. The decision highlights the council's commitment to addressing the significant unmet demand for self-build plots, a duty mandated by the Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015.

The application, for land to the rear of The Brambles on Lower Moor Road, was granted Permission in Principle (PIP)[^1]. This means the principle of building homes on the site has been established, with detailed plans to be approved later. While the site is designated as countryside, conflicting with Policy S3 of the Local Plan, the report noted that the public benefit of meeting the demand for self-build housing was a significant consideration.

Concerns were voiced by the NWLDC Conservation Officer, Historic England, and the Gardens Trust regarding potential harm to the historic setting of Coleorton Hall. Leicestershire County Council's Ecology team also flagged the absence of a protected species survey. However, the report suggested that any harm to the heritage asset would be less than substantial and would be weighed against the pressing need for self-build housing.

The report recommended PERMIT, subject to conditions to be addressed at the technical details consent stage. This decision aims to balance development needs with the protection of local heritage.

You can find more details about this decision in the Planning Committee meeting documents.

New Homes and Care Homes: Planning Decisions

The Planning Committee also considered proposals for new housing and a change of use for a property to become a children's care home.

Single-Storey Dwelling in Hugglescote

Full planning permission was recommended for a single-storey detached dwelling on land to the rear of 46 Garfield Road, Hugglescote. This site falls within the Limits to Development in both the North West Leicestershire Local Plan and the Hugglescote and Donington le Heath Neighbourhood Plan. Neighbours had raised concerns about highway access, parking, waste collection, and flood risk. However, the County Highway Authority raised no objections, and Leicestershire County Council's Ecology team also approved, subject to conditions for biodiversity enhancement. The recommendation was to PERMIT, subject to conditions, including those related to approved plans, materials, landscaping, and biodiversity.

Children's Care Home in Thringstone

A full planning application for the change of use of a dwellinghouse at 81 Main Street, Thringstone, to a children's care home for up to three young people was also on the agenda. The proposal included converting the garage into an additional lounge and increasing on-site parking. This application was called to committee due to concerns about the property's location between business premises and the potential cumulative impact of similar facilities in the area. Neighbours had expressed worries about increased parking, congestion, and noise. The report recommended PERMIT, subject to conditions, including those limiting the number of children and staff and requiring the provision of increased on-site parking before the use commences.

You can find more details about these decisions in the Planning Committee meeting documents.

Other Matters

Two scheduled meetings of the Determination Sub Committee on Monday 13 April 2026 were cancelled. These meetings were intended to consider allegations of a failure to observe the code of conduct and potentially exclude the press and public from proceedings.

The Taxi and Private Hire Sub Committee meeting scheduled for Friday 17 April 2026 was also cancelled. The agenda included the election of a chair and the consideration of a dual driver's licence application, which was expected to involve exempt information.