The Council meeting on Tuesday 15 September 2026 was marked by a poignant tribute to the late Councillor Nicholas Rushton, with councillors from across the chamber sharing heartfelt memories of his dedication and political acumen. A significant decision was made to defer proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution, which are necessary to comply with new national planning regulations, allowing for further review and development of the processes involved.

Tribute to Councillor Nicholas Rushton

The meeting began with a moment of silence in remembrance of Councillor Nicholas Rushton, who had served as a district councillor for 35 years and a member of Cabinet since 2007. Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of the Council, shared personal anecdotes, describing Councillor Rushton as the consummate politician and a friend who understood how to win the middle ground. Councillor John Legrys spoke of Councillor Rushton as Mr. Ashby, highlighting his pride in the town and his commitment to his family. Councillor Keith Merrie MBE recalled an early encounter where Councillor Rushton advised him to help everybody in the village, not just the Conservatives, underscoring his inclusive approach. Councillor Andrew Woodman remembered him as the most effective political operator he had encountered, known for his wit. Councillor Nigel Smith noted their shared start on the council, and Councillor Dr. Terri Eynon spoke of Councillor Rushton's honesty and his unexpected support for the Snibston Heritage Trust.

Local Government Reorganisation Pause

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of the Council, informed members of the government's decision to pause the Local Government Reorganisation for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. He expressed frustration at the late change, given the significant investment of time and resources already made. Members across the chamber shared their concerns about the resulting uncertainty and the impact on staff. Councillor Blunt stated that the Council would continue with sensible preparatory work while remaining focused on service delivery.

Question Regarding Marlborough Square Bollards

Councillor Catherine Beck raised a question about the placement of telescopic bollards outside the Monkey Walk Pub (Wetherspoons) in Marlborough Square. She noted that while the pub had a licence for outdoor seating, bollards were only in place on Jackson Street and not on the busy Belvoir Road, posing a risk to the public. Councillor Andrew Woodman, Housing, Property and Customer Services Portfolio Holder, explained that Marlborough Square is public highway under the control of Leicestershire County Council, and their policies dictated the placement of bollards. North West Leicestershire District Council therefore had no authority to introduce further bollards. A response regarding communication between the two councils to minimise risk would be provided outside of the meeting.

Motions

Councillor Michael Wyatt withdrew his motion concerning Local Government Reorganisation, citing the government's announcement of a pause to the process.

Councillor Dr. Terri Eynon moved a motion regarding an LGR Community Asset Strategy, which was seconded by Councillor Carol Sewell and subsequently CARRIED. The motion called for the Council to work with existing Parish and Town Councils, representatives of unparished district wards, and officers of the County Council and Shadow Unitary Council. It requested that Cabinet undertake a strategic review of all council-owned community assets in North West Leicestershire, including open spaces, community buildings, recreation areas, and car parks. The aim is to develop a Strategic Community Asset Management Plan that includes options for transfer and disposal to retain responsibility, power, and funding of these assets within the communities that use them.

Amendments to the Constitution

Councillor Jenny Simmons, Deputy Chair of the Audit and Governance Committee, presented a report on amendments to the Council's Constitution to reflect the Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026. Concerns were raised that the proposals lacked sufficient detail on how future planning applications would be referred to committee and the impact on the current member call-in process. Some members felt a decision could not be made at that meeting. The Monitoring Officer advised that the Council must ensure legal compliance with the new regulations. Following debate, and in light of the objections, members supported deferring the item to allow for further review and development of planning processes through the Governance Working Group. Councillor Simmons withdrew the original motion, and it was RESOLVED THAT the report be deferred to a future meeting.

Treasury Management Stewardship Report 2025/26

Councillor Keith Merrie MBE, Finance and Corporate Portfolio Holder, presented the Treasury Management Stewardship Report for 2025/26. No comments were made, and the report was noted. This report detailed the Council's treasury management activities for the financial year, confirming no breaches of the Treasury Management Strategy Statement and a prudent approach to investment activity.

Recommendations of the Debate Not Hate Working Group

Councillor Keith Merrie MBE presented the report from the Debate Not Hate Working Group. The group had undertaken a self-assessment using the Local Government Association's toolkit to identify ways to support councillors and mitigate the impact of abuse and intimidation. The report was noted, and it was RESOLVED THAT:

• The actions detailed within the self-assessment summary be agreed.
• The continuation of the Debate Not Hate Working Group to assist officers in the delivery of the actions be agreed. A further report will be presented to Council in February 2027 to update members on progress.

Scrutiny Annual Report

Councillor Dr. Terri Eynon, Chair of the Community Scrutiny Committee, presented the Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025/26. Members welcomed the report and recognised improvements made to the scrutiny process. Comments were made on the value of Cabinet engagement with scrutiny committees and the importance of clear and accessible reports to encourage participation. The report was noted.