The Cabinet of Melton Council met on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, approving updated policies on noise control, air quality, and contaminated land, alongside a strategy for managing health and safety. Key decisions also included the endorsement of a plan for the disposal of surplus garage sites and land to generate capital receipts and improve existing council housing stock.

Matters Referred from Scrutiny Committee

The Cabinet endorsed the conclusions of a task and finish group focused on developing a 'Youth Strategy'. The group will continue its work in this area.

Noise Control Policy

The Cabinet approved an updated Noise Policy, establishing it as the Council's operational framework for noise management and control across the Borough. This policy sets standards for noise levels, guides the management of various noise sources, and outlines procedures for handling noise complaints. The Director of Place and Prosperity, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Governance, Environment and Regulatory Services, has been delegated authority to implement and update the policy as necessary.

Air Quality Strategy

An updated Air Quality Strategy for 2026 was approved by the Cabinet. This strategy provides a comprehensive overview of air quality across the Borough of Melton, examining urban and rural contexts, pollutant sources, and historical trends. It highlights factors influencing local air quality, such as traffic congestion in Melton Mowbray town centre, domestic and commercial heating, agricultural practices, and transboundary pollution. The strategy also anticipates the benefits of infrastructure projects like the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road and outlines implications for the Council, including the need for strategic planning and policy measures to maintain and improve air quality, support public health, manage transport infrastructure, encourage low-emission technologies, and work with rural stakeholders.

Contaminated Land Strategy

The Cabinet approved a revised Contaminated Land Strategy. This strategy sets out the Council's approach to identifying, assessing, and remediating contaminated land, aligning with current legislative requirements under Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, statutory guidance, and the National Planning Policy Framework. The strategy aims to protect human health and the environment, promote brownfield redevelopment, and provide clear guidance to stakeholders. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Place and Prosperity, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Environmental Health, for the strategy's implementation. The strategy will be published and made available to developers, landowners, and the public.

Corporate Health and Safety Update

The Cabinet received an update on the Council's Health and Safety performance and work. Key areas of focus for the coming year include preparations for new requirements arising from Martyn's Law (Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025). An internal audit of the Council's health and safety management and oversight provided a good level of assurance for compliance and controls. To enable the implementation of proportionate measures related to Martyn's Law, a budget of up to £25,000 has been made available, to be funded through savings or contingency.

Disposal of Surplus Garage Sites and Land

The Cabinet approved in principle the disposal of surplus Housing Revenue Account (HRA) garage sites and land. This decision is subject to an options appraisal and business case for each site. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Housing and Communities, in consultation with the Director for Corporate Services, the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Landlord Services, the relevant Ward Member, and the Assistant Director for Governance and Democracy, to proceed with the disposal of these surplus assets. This initiative aims to reduce costs associated with underutilised garages, generate capital receipts for improving existing council homes and acquiring new ones, and explore potential redevelopment or community uses for surplus land. The approach will be guided by the HRA Asset Disposal Policy approved in September 2024.