The Council of Hinckley and Bosworth met on Tuesday 14 April 2026, discussing a range of important local issues. Key decisions included the approval of the freehold disposal of a plot of land at Harrowbrook Industrial Estate and the unanimous adoption of a motion to support the national Year of Reading initiative in 2026. The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the potential cancellation of a new NHS day case centre in Hinckley.

The Cock Inn, Sibson

A petition with over 2,600 signatures was presented, calling for the urgent restoration of The Cock Inn, a Grade II-listed pub in Sibson that has been vacant since 2019. Councillor MJ Surtees presented the petition, highlighting the pub's historical significance and its deterioration. Councillor SL Bray, Leader of the Council, stated that officers have been in communication with the owners, Star Pubs and Bars, and that a recent meeting with their appointed professional team was positive. He confirmed that architects would be starting work in mid-May to restore the pub. Councillor Bray also paid tribute to Paul Grundy for his work on this issue.

Year of Reading 2026

The Council unanimously adopted a motion to support the national Year of Reading initiative in 2026. The motion, proposed by Councillor R Webber-Jones and seconded by Councillor MT Mullaney, commits the Council to championing reading across the borough, signing a national pledge, and working with local partners such as schools and libraries to deliver a programme of activities. These activities will include a borough-wide story writing competition for primary-aged children, a book exchange at the Snapdragon festival, and providing free books for those facing the cost of living crisis. An amendment was accepted to acknowledge the work of the National Literacy Trust and HRH The Queen. Councillor M Mullaney spoke about his personal experience with dyslexia and the transformative power of reading. Councillor KWP Lynch highlighted the importance of parental involvement in reading.

Local Plan and Housing Development

Councillor R Allen raised questions regarding the Norton Heath proposals for up to 10,000 new homes north of Twycross. Councillor W Crooks, Executive Member for Planning, stated that the Leader of the Council would address this in his position statement. In his statement, Councillor SL Bray confirmed that he had requested officers remove the Norton Heath development from the Local Plan. He explained that this decision followed a review of responses from local residents and statutory consultees, as well as changes to the proposed boundaries and the developing Local Plan evidence base. The Local Plan will now proceed to a Regulation 19 consultation.

Harrowbrook Industrial Estate Disposal

The Council approved the freehold disposal of Plot 22 at Harrowbrook Industrial Estate for £250,000. Councillor KWP Lynch presented the report, explaining that the building was old with an asbestos roof and minimal insulation, making it difficult to lease. The disposal is expected to result in a capital receipt of £203,288 for the Council.

NHS Day Case Centre

A motion expressing deep concern over the potential cancellation of the new NHS day case centre in Hinckley was carried. Proposed by Councillor SL Bray and seconded by Councillor MC Bools, the motion calls for the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to urgently reconsider its position and to consider the potential for an urgent care centre on the site of the former community hospital. The Council also condemned what it described as inaccurate and untruthful statements made by the Member of Parliament for Hinckley and Bosworth, calling for an apology.

Questions from Councillors

• Leicestershire Police Funding: Councillor R Allen questioned the Executive Member for Planning regarding allegations that the Planning department had refused funding requests from Leicestershire Police. Councillor W Crooks explained that the council's stance on Section 106 Agreement contributions is consistent with other local planning authorities in Leicestershire. He stated that the contributions sought by the Police were not considered legally compliant under the CIL tests. The council is coordinating legal advice on behalf of five local authorities to assist the Police.
• Food Waste Recycling: Councillor C Allen asked about the costs and take-up rates of the new food waste recycling containers. Councillor L Hodgkins, Executive Member for Streetscene Services, confirmed that the Medium Term Financial Strategy covered the issue and noted that government funding for food waste may not be fully provided from 2027/28. He stated that participation rates had not yet been measured, but initial collection volumes showed an increase. An update will be provided to councillors at the end of Quarter 1.
• Identifying Savings: Councillor C Harris inquired about the progress of identifying savings and additional income streams to ensure a balanced budget. Councillor KWP Lynch, Executive Member for Finance, reported that savings and cost reductions of approximately £2 million were part of the Medium Term Financial Strategy, with further proposals being considered for temporary accommodation costs. He noted that the Council would not need to make savings if central government funding had kept pace with inflation.
• Norton Heath Proposals: Councillor R Allen also asked for an update on the Norton Heath proposals and alternative housing numbers for the draft Local Plan. Councillor W Crooks indicated that the Leader of the Council would address this in his position statement.

Mayor's Communications

Councillor REH Flemming, Mayor of the Borough of Hinckley and Bosworth, presented a long service award to Paul Farmer for 25 years of employment with the council. He also updated the Council on his recent civic engagements.