Green Councillors’ Update: April 2026

Planning and development continue to be one of the biggest issues residents raise with us. Syston has experienced significant growth over many years, and concerns about the pace of development remain a regular theme in conversations with local people.
Last month the application for 79 homes off Barkby Lane was approved at Plans Committee. This was a frustrating decision. Councillor David Infield spoke against the proposal, raising concerns about flooding and the cumulative impact of yet more development on local infrastructure. Many residents feel Syston has already taken more than its fair share of housing, and questions remain about whether services and roads can keep up with the pace of growth.
The proposal for 1,100 homes on the edge of Syston continues to move through the planning process, though it is likely to take months or even years before a final decision is made. Many residents have commented on the application and we are grateful to everyone who has taken the time to have their say. We know the pace of development can feel relentless. We will continue scrutinising the plans closely and pushing for proper drainage, infrastructure and transparency in the process.
Another issue we are continuing to work on is the future of St Peter’s Court. The proposal affecting the site will be considered again by Scrutiny and Cabinet in April. Laurie Needham has been working closely with St Peters Court residents and will continue doing everything possible to advocate for a positive outcome that protects the community there.
Alongside these larger issues, a significant part of our role is helping residents with day to day concerns, from planning questions and flooding worries, traffic and road safety and navigating council services. Please do get in touch if we can help.
Finally, you may have seen in the news that elections in some parts of the country were cancelled or postponed by the Government as part of plans to reorganise local councils, only for that decision to be overturned following a legal challenge. We have concerns that this could affect elections here, as discussions about Local Government Reorganisation continue. Local elections are currently scheduled for next year, and residents deserve clarity on whether they will go ahead as planned. We are continuing to press the Government for that clarity and for confirmation that local people will not lose their opportunity to vote.
David Infield, Andy Haynes, Laurie Needham, Sandra Woodward, Chris O’Neill