The Scrutiny Committee of Melton Council met on Thursday 23 April 2026 to review the council's housing regulatory compliance, the annual report of the Landlord Assurance Board, and receive an update on the Stockyard project. Key decisions included noting the progress made in housing regulatory compliance and the positive impact of the Landlord Assurance Board, and receiving a detailed update on the Stockyard project's development and operational plans.

Housing Regulatory Compliance Annual Update

The committee received an update on Melton Borough Council's housing regulatory compliance, noting the progress made since the Regulator for Social Housing (RSH) awarded a C2 grade in August 2024. This grade indicated areas of strong performance but highlighted the need for further development in the Transparency, Influence and Accountability Standard. The council has since implemented an action plan focusing on four workstreams: enhancing tenant voice, improving tenant data collection and usage, increasing transparency of performance information, and upgrading the ASB case management system.

Significant progress has been made, particularly in turning up the volume of tenant voice, with tenants now actively involved in shaping services, co-designing a code of conduct for contractors, and influencing contract procurement. The Know your tenants workstream has seen improvements in tenant data collection, with a census underway, and this data is now being used to tailor services and inform strategic decisions, such as the review of older persons' housing. Tenant satisfaction has increased across all measures, with a notable improvement in satisfaction with anti-social behaviour handling.

Transparency has been enhanced through updated performance reporting, including a new tenant-friendly website section and more detailed annual reports that highlight learning from complaints. The ASB case management system, ECINs, has been implemented, improving case tracking, partner collaboration, and tenant satisfaction. Overall, the council has demonstrated sustained progress and is working towards a C1 grading, the highest possible score.

Landlord Assurance Board Annual Report

The committee reviewed the second annual report of the Landlord Assurance Board (LAB), established in April 2024. The LAB operates as a partnership of equals between officers, councillors, and tenants, focusing on housing matters, regulatory duties, and tenant voice. The report highlighted the board's significant impact over the past year, particularly in shaping service improvements through tenant feedback.

Key achievements include the co-design of a tenant-led Code of Conduct for contractors and officers, which is influencing service delivery and procurement. Tenant involvement was crucial in the redesign of the repairs, voids, and planned maintenance contracts, with tenant board members contributing to the specification and evaluation process. The board also requested updates on learning from the Grenfell Tower tragedy, leading to a self-assessment and action plan. The report emphasised the transformative impact of tenant representatives on the board, fostering greater learning, co-design, and partnership. The board's work is also preparing for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), aiming to maintain regulatory compliance and service stability during the transition.

Stockyard Project Update

An update was provided on the Stockyard project in Melton Mowbray, a significant development funded by HM Government's Levelling Up Fund. The project aims to enhance the historic Livestock Market site into a food and drink hub with event spaces. The council has progressed with the procurement of the main construction contract, with Robertsons, a Tier 1 contractor, identified as the highest-scoring bidder. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 4 (technical design), with construction expected to commence in summer 2026 and completion by March 2028.

Operationally, the council will assume direct landlord responsibility for the site from June 2027. Preparatory work includes securing specialist expertise for markets and events, developing the Stockyard's offer and tenant engagement programme, and creating a comprehensive business, marketing, and promotional plan. The project is also focusing on revitalising existing markets and events, with initiatives like the Stockyard Producers Pantry being explored to support local food businesses. A dedicated Stockyard website is being developed, and the brand has been successfully registered as a trademark. The project also includes plans for a cultural hub within the Banqueting Suite and Exhibition Hall, with preliminary discussions held with Loughborough College. The report acknowledged risks related to planning, legal matters, finances, and programme delivery, with mitigation strategies in place. The project is seen as complementary to the town centre, aiming to increase footfall and economic benefit for the wider borough.