Agenda and minutes

To receive apologies for absence.

No apologies for absence were received.

To receive declarations of interests in respect of any item on the agenda.

No declarations of interest were received.

To sign and confirm the minutes of the last meeting.

The minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 5^th May 2026 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Leader.

To answer any written questions received from members of the public no later than 5 p.m. two clear working days prior to the meeting – for this meeting the deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday 19^th June 2026.

No questions were received.

There were no recommendations.

There were no recommendations.

(A report by Russell Stone, Executive Director – Finance (Section 151 Officer))

The Portfolio Holder for Finance and Economic Growth, Councillor Sandeep Ghosh, presented a report by the Executive Director – Finance (Section 151 Officer), which provided a comprehensive overview of the Council’s financial performance across the revenue budget, reserves, treasury management and capital programme as at 31 March 2026, with detailed financial information provided at Appendix A (Revenue) and Appendix B (Capital) to the report.

Members were advised that the draft revenue outturn position, as set out in Appendix A – Table 1, reflected an underspend of £0.064m, representing a significant improvement from earlier forecasts during the financial year. Appendix A also detailed reserve movements (Tables 2 and 2a), and the overall reserve position (Table 3).

In respect of capital expenditure, Appendix B outlined the programme performance, identifying an overall underspend primarily attributable to the rephasing of schemes, with further detail provided on individual projects and future programme profiling. The report also included treasury management performance and confirmed the achievement of the Council’s efficiency target.

Members noted the improved financial position and welcomed the achievement of the savings target, recognising the report as demonstrating effective financial management and prudent monitoring.

Appreciation was expressed for the work undertaken by the Portfolio Holder and the Finance team in achieving the year-end position. Members acknowledged the significant effort involved in maintaining financial stability and delivering against budget expectations, particularly in a challenging financial environment.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Sandeep Ghosh and seconded by Councillor Callum Butler.

Resolved:

1.     That the draft outturn revenue position of a £0.064m underspend for 2025/26, as detailed in Appendix A – Table 1 within the report, be noted;

2.     That the reserve transfers, set out in Appendix A – Table 2a within the report, be approved;

3.     That the draft outturn capital position for 2025/26, as detailed in Appendix B – Table 1 within the report, be noted;

4.     That the rephasing of the slippage of the existing capital schemes into future financial years along with the capital addition in 2026/27, as outlined within paragraph 3.1 and 3.2 and in Appendix B – Table 3 within the report, be approved; and

5.     That the final BTAC revenue position of £0.104m and the transfer of the surplus to BTAC reserve be noted.

(A report by Russell Stone, Executive Director – Finance (Section 151 Officer))

The Portfolio Holder for Finance and Economic Growth, Councillor Sandeep Ghosh, presented a report by the Executive Director – Finance (Section 151 Officer), which outlined proposals for consultation on the Local Council Tax Support Scheme for 2027/28.

The report detailed the current scheme arrangements and financial implications, including levels of support provided to different household types, and set out options relating to whether the scheme should be uprated in line with Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) allowances.

Members were advised that the report took account of the wider context of local government reorganisation and the need to maintain a consistent and sustainable scheme.

Members supported consultation on maintaining the current scheme, recognising the importance of providing stability for claimants.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Sandeep Ghosh and seconded by Councillor John Baxter.

Resolved:

That the consultation to retain the current scheme, updated in line with the Department for Work and Pension (DWP) annual up-ratings for 2027/28, be approved.

[The Head of Revenues and Benefits (PSPSL) left the meeting at 6.11pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Maria Cotton, Service Director – Culture & Regeneration)

The Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Tourism, Councillor Sarah Sharpe, presented a report by the Service Director – Culture & Regeneration, which sought approval of the South & East Lincolnshire Destination Management Plan 2026–2030, attached at Appendix A to the report, together with the Boston Destination Management Action Plan at Appendix B.

Members welcomed the report and expressed strong support for the vision and direction set out within the Plan. It was recognised that the Borough had significant assets and potential, and that the Plan provided a clear and ambitious framework to ensure Boston was not only a destination to be discovered but one ready to be recognised. Members noted that there was much to look forward to over the coming years as the Plan was implemented.

The quality and accessibility of the report were particularly highlighted, with Members commending the clarity of presentation and ease with which the content could be understood. It was recognised that the document successfully brought together complex information in a concise and readable format.

Members also acknowledged the Borough’s rich history and heritage, noting that these formed a strong foundation for the development of the visitor economy.

During discussion, appreciation was expressed for the work of the Portfolio Holder and officers involved in preparing the report. The report was widely regarded as clear, concise and optimistic, and as a particularly strong document.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Sarah Sharpe and seconded by Councillor Helen Staples.

Resolved:

1.     That the South & East Lincolnshire Destination Management Plan 2026 – 2030, attached in Appendix A to the report, be approved;

2.     That the Destination Management Action Plan 2026 – 2030, attached in Appendix B within the report, be approved; and

3.     That authority be delegated to the Service Director – Culture & Regeneration, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder, to make minor amendments to the Action Plan and oversee delivery, monitoring and annual refreshes to ensure it remains aligned to local priorities, funding opportunities and partnership arrangements.

[Councillor Claire Rylott entered the meeting at 6.16pm, during consideration of the above item.]

[Service Director – Culture & Regeneration and the Head of Finance Delivery - BBC (PSPSL) left the meeting at 6.17pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Christian Allen, Service Director – Regulatory)

The Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services, Councillor Callum Butler, presented a report by the Service Director – Regulatory, which sought approval to extend the Public Spaces Protection Order for dog controls across the Borough for a further three-year period. The proposed Order was attached at Appendix 1 to the report, with the results of the public consultation detailed at Appendix 2.

The report outlined the legislative context under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and confirmed that the existing PSPO, originally introduced in 2017, covered issues including dog fouling, exclusion from specified areas, and control of dogs in public spaces.

Appendix 2 summarised the consultation findings, demonstrating a high level of public support for the continuation of the current measures.

Members noted the high level of public support and agreed that the existing measures remained necessary and effective in addressing dog-related anti-social behaviour. The proposals were considered proportionate and reflective of local need.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Callum Butler and seconded by Councillor Mike Gilbert.

Resolved:

1.     That, after taking into account the consultation feedback, the proposal to extend the Public Spaces Protection Order (as shown in Appendix 1 within the report) be approved for a further three years from 1st October 2026, under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014; and

2.     That the Fixed Penalty Notice charge at £100, which is the statutory maximum for these offences, be maintained.

(A report by James Gilbert, Service Director – Corporate Services)

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Dale Broughton, presented a report by the Service Director – Corporate Services, which set out a revised approach to the management and review of the Council’s strategies and policies during the period leading up to local government reorganisation. The report included a comprehensive register of policies and strategies at Appendix A, together with commentary regarding their current status and proposed extensions.

Members were advised that the report proposed extending the lifespan of identified policies to March 2028, where appropriate, and introducing a proportionate framework for updating policies, allowing minor amendments to be made under delegated authority while retaining appropriate governance arrangements.

Members considered the report and supported the proposed approach, recognising it as a practical and proportionate way to manage the Council’s policy framework during a period of transition.

It was acknowledged that extending existing policies, alongside enabling minor updates through delegated authority, would ensure that governance arrangements remained robust while allowing capacity to be focused on priority areas. Members agreed that the approach reflected what was required to support the Council in the lead up to local government reorganisation.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Dale Broughton and seconded by Councillor Sandeep Ghosh.

Resolved:

1.     That the policies and strategies listed in Appendix A be extended to 31 March 2028 where their current expiry date is sooner;

2.     That authority be delegated to Service Directors, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder and the Monitoring Officer, to update the policies in Appendix A within the report, as required in order to accommodate minor or non-material amendments, and consequential amendments where there has been a change in legislation requiring an amendment.

This delegation is to be exercised only once Overview and Scrutiny members have been informally notified of the proposed amendment(s), providing the opportunity for Committee Members to request scrutiny in advance of implementation.

This delegation will cease to have effect if Local Government Reorganisation does not proceed.

3.     That a summary report of instances, where the delegation has been used, be provided to Overview and Scrutiny periodically for formal noting.

[The Service Director – Regulatory left the meeting at 6.23pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by James Gilbert, Service Director – Corporate Services)

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Dale Broughton, presented a report by the Service Director – Corporate Services and the Service Director – Legal & Governance (Monitoring Officer), which provided an update on delivery against corporate priorities and the management of key risks. The report included detailed performance information at Appendix A, together with the Council’s strategic risks at Appendix B, partnership risks at Appendix C, and fraud risks at Appendix D.

Members were advised that the report demonstrated overall strong performance, with indicators reported against agreed targets, and provided assurance regarding the effectiveness of risk management arrangements.

Members noted the overall positive performance position and the information provided within the report. During discussion, appreciation was expressed for the work of officers in delivering and reporting performance, including specific recognition of contributions within the Corporate Services team.

A query was raised in relation to the battery-related risk identified within the risk register (as detailed in the appendices). Members were advised that this risk would be subject to further review by the Senior Leadership Team in Quarter 1, and that an update would be provided in due course.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Dale Broughton and seconded by Councillor John Baxter.

Resolved:

That the quarterly performance and risk monitoring information for Q4 of 2025/26 be noted.

[The Business Intelligence and Change Manager left the meeting at 6.27pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Phil Norman, Service Director – Planning & Strategic Infrastructure)

The Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure, Councillor Chris Mountain, presented a report by the Service Director – Planning & Strategic Infrastructure, which sought approval for the adoption of the Boston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, attached at Appendix 1 within the report, together with the proposed revised conservation area boundary at Appendix 2 within the report, and a summary of consultation responses and changes at Appendix 3 within the report.

The report outlined the purpose of the Appraisal in identifying and preserving the special architectural and historic interest of the conservation area, and the Management Plan in setting out future actions and guidance. The appendices provided detailed information on boundary changes, consultation outcomes and proposed updates to the document.

Members welcomed the report and recognised it as a timely and appropriate policy that reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to the town centre and built environment. The significance of Boston’s heritage was acknowledged, with Members noting that the conservation area played an important role in showcasing the Borough’s historic character and attractiveness to visitors.

The report was seen as both informative and insightful, bringing together a detailed evidence base with a clear and practical framework for future management. Members noted the alignment with wider work relating to the town centre and regeneration priorities.

Appreciation was expressed for the work undertaken by officers in preparing the document, with Members recognising the considerable level of detail and effort involved in its development.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Chris Mountain and seconded by Councillor Mike Gilbert.

Resolved:

That the adoption of the Boston Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, attached in Appendix 1 within the report, including the revised Conservation Area boundary, attached in Appendix 2 within the report, be approved.

(A report by Phil Norman, Service Director – Planning & Strategic Infrastructure)

The Portfolio Holder for Infrastructure, Councillor Chris Mountain, presented a report by the Service Director – Planning & Strategic Infrastructure, which sought approval of the South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Building Design Guide, attached at Appendix 1 within the report, with a summary of consultation responses and amendments set out at Appendix 2 within the report.

The report explained that the guide had been developed collaboratively across the partnership to provide consistent advice on the maintenance and repair of traditional buildings. Appendix 1 set out the full guidance document, while Appendix 2 summarised feedback received during consultation and the changes made in response.

Members welcomed the report and recognised it as a clear and useful document, providing a comprehensive source of guidance in a single place. It was noted that the Guide would be particularly beneficial in a historic town such as Boston, where the quality and appearance of the built environment were important considerations.

The report was regarded as informative and easy to follow, and appreciation was expressed for the work undertaken by officers in preparing the document. Members recognised the value of bringing together a range of practical advice in a format accessible to both professionals and residents.

During discussion, a query was raised regarding the treatment of damaged or insecure traditional features, including windows, and whether modern solutions such as strengthened materials could be appropriately incorporated. In response, it was noted that the Guide set out a range of options to balance security and preservation, across both traditional and commercial premises.

It was also acknowledged that the document contained clear points of contact within each authority to provide further advice and support to users of the Guide.

Members further noted that, as a guidance document rather than a formal policy, it allowed flexibility and could be reviewed and updated as required to reflect best practice and changing circumstances.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Chris Mountain and seconded by Councillor Sarah Sharpe.

Resolved:

That the South and East Lincolnshire Traditional Buildings Design Guide, attached in Appendix 1 within the report, be approved.

[The Heritage Manager left the meeting at 6.39pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Emily Spicer, Service Director – Communities and Housing Services)

The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Councillor John Baxter, presented a report by the Service Director – Communities and Housing Services, which sought approval to accept additional Disabled Facilities Grant funding and to support the continuation of the Lincolnshire Good Home Alliance service. The report included supporting evidence at Appendix 1, detailing evaluation outcomes, and Appendix 2, providing further analysis of the service’s effectiveness.

Members were advised that the appendices demonstrated positive impacts, including improved living conditions and wellbeing for residents, alongside evidence of value for money. The report also outlined the proposed allocation of grant funding and associated budget amendments.

Members welcomed the report and supported the continuation of the service. Appreciation was expressed for the work undertaken by the Portfolio Holder and officers involved, recognising the effort required to deliver positive outcomes for residents and to secure and utilise funding effectively.

Members confirmed their support for the proposed amendments to the capital and revenue budgets to reflect the additional funding, noting that this would enable the Council to continue delivering beneficial housing interventions.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor John Baxter and seconded by Councillor Sandeep Ghosh.

Resolved:

1.     That the additional allocation of £55,211 Disabled Facilities Grant funding for 2025/26 received from Lincolnshire County Council (LCC) be accepted and:

2.     That the use of £26,989 to contribute funding to a 21-month extension of the Good Home Alliance advice and casework service from 1 July 2026 to 31 March 2028, funded in total by Lincolnshire District Councils and LCC contributions and hosted by East Lindsey District Council be approved;

3.     That the use of £28,222 to support the delivery of DFG and, where appropriate, Discretionary Housing Financial Assistance (DHFA) be approved; and

4.     That the Council’s capital and revenue budgets be amended to reflect the above decisions and as set out within the financial section of the report.

[The Service Director – Communities and Housing Services left the meeting at 6.44pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Matthew Hogan, Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development)

The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Councillor John Baxter, presented a report by the Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development, which sought approval to participate in Round 4 of the Local Authority Housing Fund programme. The report outlined the funding allocation, delivery requirements and proposed approach to acquiring properties to meet housing need, with detail provided within the main report.

Members were advised that the proposal would enable the Council to secure government funding to deliver temporary and resettlement accommodation, supported by a combination of grant funding and Council investment.

Members welcomed the report and supported the proposals, recognising the positive contribution the scheme would make towards meeting housing need within the Borough.

Approval was expressed for the work undertaken in bringing forward the proposals, with Members acknowledging the progress made in securing and delivering the scheme.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor John Baxter and seconded by Councillor Mike Gilbert.

Resolved:

1.     That the Council take part in the Local Authority Housing Fund Round 4 programme, with a view to bringing 3 properties into the council’s ownership to meet housing needs within the district;

2.     That the approach to spend of the funds, including type, priority location and delivery, as articulated within the report, be approved;

3.     That authority be delegated to the Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development, in conjunction with the Portfolio Holder, to finalise and agree the terms of the MOU for the LAHF Round 4 programme with MHCLG; and

4.     That Full Council be recommended to amend the 2026/27 capital programme to reflect the LAHF 4 funds required to match fund the Local Authority Housing Funding of BBC £302,000, received with £365,000, from the council’s reserves giving a total scheme value of £667,000.

(A report by John Medler, Service Director – Legal & Governance (Monitoring Officer))

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Dale Broughton, presented a report by the Service Director – Legal & Governance (Monitoring Officer), which sought approval for the Council’s appointments to outside bodies for the 2026/27 municipal year, as detailed at Appendix 1 within the report.

The report explained that the appointments ensured appropriate representation on key external organisations and were aligned to Cabinet portfolio responsibilities. It was further proposed that the appointments remain in place for the year unless otherwise amended by the Leader or where a Member ceased to hold office, thereby providing continuity and flexibility.

Members considered the proposed appointments and recognised the importance of ensuring that representatives were well suited to the organisations to which they were appointed. It was noted that effective representation supported partnership working and ensured the Council’s interests were appropriately promoted.

Members also acknowledged the need to ensure that appointed Members actively engaged with the organisations and fulfilled their roles effectively.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Dale Broughton and seconded by Councillor John Baxter.

Resolved:

1.     That the appointments to outside bodies, as set out in Appendix 1 within the report, be approved; and

2.     That such appointments shall remain in place until such time as the Leader determines to make alternative appointments or where the appointed Member ceases to be a Member of the authority.

To consider resolving - That under Section 100(A)(iv) of the Local Government Act 1972 the public and press be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act (as amended).

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Callum Butler and seconded by Councillor John Baxter.

Resolved:

That under Section 100(A)(iv) of the Local Government Act 1972 the public and press be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act (as amended).

(A report by Matthew Hogan, Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development)

The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Councillor John Baxter, presented a report by the Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development, which sought approval to support the delivery of new affordable homes at Heron Park Phase 5.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor John Baxter and seconded by Councillor Sandeep Ghosh.

Resolved:

To agree the recommendations as set out within the exempt report.

[The Service Director – Strategic Growth & Development left the meeting at 6.56pm, following consideration of the above item.]

(A report by Andy Fisher, Executive Director – Programme Delivery)

The Portfolio Holder for Housing, Councillor John Baxter, presented a report by the Executive Director – Programme Delivery, which sought approval for the disposal of land at Alfred Street, Boston.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor John Baxter and seconded by Councillor Chris Mountain.

Resolved:

To agree the recommendations as set out within the exempt report.