The councils stated that the Government's current pause on decisions for local government reorganisation in England left them with no alternative but to pursue legal action to safeguard their position. This follows previous attempts to gain clarity from ministers and request more information regarding the decision-making process for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.
Previously, in September, five councils – Blaby District Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council, and Oadby and Wigston Borough Council – had announced the issuance of a pre-action letter to the government. This letter marked the initial formal step in considering a legal challenge to the reorganisation decision.
Following relevant Cabinet meetings, all seven Leicestershire district and borough councils have now formally agreed to proceed with filing a protective claim for judicial review.
This legal action is a response to the Government's announcement in July regarding its proposals to establish two new unitary councils for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. These plans included an expanded Leicester boundary that would affect parts of Blaby, Charnwood, Harborough, and the entirety of Oadby and Wigston.
The councils acknowledged the significant public concern that arose after the announcement of the government’s preferred option, particularly among rural and semi-rural communities that would be impacted by the proposed boundary changes.
The legal claim asserts that the Government's decision was not made in accordance with the law and lacked proper consultation. It further argues that the Government failed to adequately consider the impact on local residents and the associated costs. Additionally, the claim contends that there was insufficient justification for the approved boundary changes.
Stuart Bray, Leader of Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, commented: “I’ve been clear that these damaging proposals are wrong for Hinckley and Bosworth and would weaken our residents’ local voice. This is not a step we take lightly. Ministers have failed to provide the clarity, and evidence councils have repeatedly asked for. We have a responsibility to protect our legal position and stand up for the residents, businesses and partners who have raised serious concerns. We will not stand by while a decision with lasting consequences for our communities goes unchallenged.”
The councils emphasised their continued commitment to working constructively with partners across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. They assured the public that council services will continue to operate as normal throughout the legal process.
