The Cabinet of Melton Council met on Wednesday 17 June 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and the council's corporate performance. Key decisions included noting progress on LGR preparations and approving the establishment of a cross-party reference group for the process.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Update

The council received an update on the significant changes proposed for local government in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR). Chief Executive Edd de Coverly explained that the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 heralds the biggest change for local government in a generation, with proposals to reduce the current ten councils to either two or three unitary authorities. A government decision on the preferred proposal is expected in July 2026, following a public consultation that received over 6,300 responses.

The council has been undertaking no regrets preparatory work, focusing on areas such as HR, assets, and contracts, regardless of the final outcome. This includes establishing an implementation team and preparing for informal joint committees to oversee the transition process. Cabinet noted the progress made and approved the establishment of a cross-party LGR Members' Reference Group to provide oversight. Councillor Ronan Browne, Leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of collaborative working and leaving politics aside to support staff and ensure a smooth transition.

Corporate Performance, Risk and Feedback Report 2025/26, Quarter 4

Martin Guest, Policy and Communications Manager, presented the quarterly report on the council's performance, risks, and feedback. The report highlighted areas of good performance, such as rent arrears collection and council tax collection efficiency, with the council performing well year-on-year in these areas.

However, areas for improvement were also identified. The recycling rate has seen a reduction, standing at 39.22% over the last four quarters, which is below the national target. An education and awareness campaign is underway to address this, alongside increased oversight of the waste contract. Performance in determining planning decisions within statutory timescales has also fallen, with major planning decisions at 80% and non-major decisions at 61%. A Planning Productivity Plan is in place to address this backlog.

Councillor Alison Freer, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Governance, Waste and Environmental Services, noted that while there are challenges, the council is actively working to address them. The report was noted by Cabinet, with members providing observations to relevant officers.

Cabinet Priorities, Progress Update

Michelle Rodgers, Director for Housing and Communities and Deputy Chief Executive, provided an update on the new Cabinet's initial priorities. These include managing the LGR transition effectively, with a focus on engaging with parish councils, and investing in the Melton town centre. An environmental improvement plan for the town centre, supported by £20,000 from the Corporate Priorities Reserve, will include additional weed treatment, bench refurbishment, and litter bin replacement.

Progress on the Stockyard Project continues, with a pre-contract services agreement in place. The Planning Service is also a focus, with an improvement programme underway to enhance application processing, staff training, and member engagement. The council is also reviewing its assets, with planned disposals of commercial property and the Cove Community Centre proceeding. Efforts to boost economic growth and inward investment are ongoing, with a new growth strategy to be developed. Key projects such as the replacement of car parking machines and repairs to the country park bridge are progressing, and the mobilisation of housing and property maintenance contracts is on track.

Matters Referred from Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet agreed to have regard for the Scrutiny Committee's feedback on three reports:

• Housing Regulatory Compliance Annual Update: The Scrutiny Committee raised points regarding the handling of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and damp and mould issues in council properties.
• Landlord Assurance Board Annual Report: The committee noted the important role the Landlord Assurance Board will play during Local Government Reorganisation, particularly as the council's housing stock is expected to increase significantly.
• Stockyard Project Update: The committee reviewed the progress of the Stockyard project, noting the development of a comprehensive risk register and ongoing stakeholder communication.

The meeting also included the confirmation of previous minutes and declarations of interest.