Protest as council votes to oppose city expansion

Protesters and many locals are angry about government plans to expand Leicester’s boundaries from 2028 to include towns like Birstall, Syston, Thurmaston and Anstey — around 45,000 people could be moved and a consultation reportedly found 87% opposed.
Charnwood Borough Council voted 29–16 to oppose the expansion and will formally tell ministers, though councillors say the final decision rests with the government.
The government and Leicester’s mayor say the change will speed housing and infrastructure delivery, improve services and give surrounding communities a greater say in city governance.