Leicestershire County Council has officially dropped plans to change how specialist nurseries are funded, meaning families in Hinckley, Leicestershire, can keep their current childcare arrangements. The decision, announced on 27 February 2026, follows a period of heavy public opposition to proposals that would have stopped the council from paying for places at four specific sites across the county.
The Sketchley Hill Menphys nursery in Hinckley was one of the locations originally facing a loss of funding. A public consultation held between January and February 2026 saw more than 2,500 people share their views, while a petition to save the services gained around 2,000 signatures. Parents had raised concerns that moving children with complex medical needs into standard nurseries would not provide the expert care they currently receive.
Reform UK Council Leader Dan Harrison confirmed the plans were halted because of the significant concern shown by local parents and a lack of support from other council members. He stated that stopping the proposals was the right thing to do after listening to the feedback. Other nurseries that were part of the plan included Wigston Menphys, Oasis Retreat in Melton Mowbray, and Lift Beacon in Loughborough.
Families using these specialist services are now being told they can continue with their current nursery plans for the time being. The council suggests that parents in Hinckley should contact their specific nursery directly to confirm any next steps and get formal confirmation that their child’s place is secure.
