Caitlin James

A government review of the closure of a GP surgery in Evington found the decision was broadly in line with policy despite campaigners’ claims it was undemocratic. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman acknowledged some flaws in the consultation process but concluded they did not affect the outcome. Campaign groups said the closure left many patients with significantly reduced access to services, but further challenge would require an unaffordable judicial review. The local integrated care board said alternative GP practices are available nearby and noted that the closure resulted from the landlord’s decision to sell the premises.

A historic former pub in Loughborough, The Green Man, may be converted into car park storage as part of plans to demolish and redevelop the Carillon Court Shopping Centre into student accommodation. Leicester Commercial Limited submitted the proposal to Charnwood Borough Council, prompting concern from historian Jim Butler about the loss of a longstanding element of the town’s heritage. The redevelopment also impacts neighbouring business Tylers, which will close after 104 years but may return once construction is complete. Public comments on the proposal are open until 3 August.

Curve Theatre in Leicester expressed frustration after its bid to temporarily operate the closed Rutland Centre car park was rejected, raising concerns about reduced audience numbers and effects on surrounding Cultural Quarter businesses. The site remains shut following NCP’s collapse, with owners Cavan Investments yet to secure a new operator. Leicester City Council said alternative parking remains available and is working with Curve to promote nearby facilities while negotiations continue.