The County Council of Leicestershire met on Thursday, 6 August 2026, to discuss and vote on a motion condemning the government's proposals for local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. The council resolved to seek legal advice on the lawfulness of the government's decision-making process and called for new plans that would maintain existing city boundaries and ensure local government reflects local needs.

Local Government Reorganisation

The most significant item discussed was a notice of motion condemning the government's proposals for local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. The motion expressed strong opposition to the idea of incorporating parts of Leicestershire into Leicester City against the will of the residents, describing it as an undemocratic disgrace. It highlighted that public consultation showed 88% of respondents opposed the expansion of Leicester City's boundaries.

The motion also noted the differing stances of political groups within the council: the Liberal Democrats opposed the creation of a single unitary authority for the rest of Leicestershire and Rutland, believing it would be too remote, and also opposed city expansion. The Reform and Conservative groups supported a single Leicestershire Council without city expansion.

The council resolved to seek legal advice on the lawfulness and robustness of the government's decision-making process regarding this reorganisation. Subject to this advice, the council will consider further steps, including legal remedies, if reasonable grounds are identified. Furthermore, the council called on the government to ensure that if the reorganisation timetable extends beyond April 2028, scheduled elections for district, borough, and city councils, as well as the City Mayor and Rutland Council, would proceed as soon as possible to maintain democratic accountability. The council also urged the government to reconsider its plans and develop new proposals that would keep the city boundary unchanged and ensure local government effectively serves the needs of Leicestershire and Rutland residents.

During the debate, Mr. Mullaney moved an altered motion, seconded by Mr. Bray. An amendment proposed by Mrs. Taylor was withdrawn. The altered motion, which included a revised paragraph 3 to reflect the specific views of the Liberal Democrat, Reform, and Conservative groups, was put to a vote. A named vote was requested, and the motion was carried with 45 members voting in favour and one member, Mr. Miah, voting against. There were no abstentions.

The meeting also included Chairman's Announcements, where Councillor Linda Danks, Chair of the County Council, reported with sadness the death of former Leader of the County Council, Mr. Nick Rushton. Tributes were paid to his extensive service to Leicestershire, including his leadership from 2012 to 2025 and his role as Chair of the Combined Fire Authority. A minute's silence was held in his memory.

Declarations of interest were made by members regarding the Notice of Motion on Local Government Reorganisation, with many noting they were also district or borough councillors. A dispensation previously approved by the Corporate Governance Committee allowed all members to participate in the discussion and vote. Mr. Grimley declared an additional registrable interest due to his wife working for Leicester City Council.