The Melton Borough Council meeting on Thursday 23 July 2026 addressed significant local government reorganisation, the ongoing Stockyard project, and the financial health of the housing revenue account. Decisions were also made regarding motions on domestic abuse support, community support during extreme weather, and car parking machine upgrades, alongside the approval of the treasury management report and annual committee reports.

Local Government Reorganisation

Councillor Ronan Browne, Leader of the Council, provided an update on the government's decision regarding local government reorganisation for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. The proposal supports Leicester City Council's plan for two unitary councils, with Melton Borough Council being part of the unitary council for the remaining parts of Leicestershire and Rutland. While this was not the council's preferred outcome, Councillor Browne stated the commitment to making the chosen outcome work for the benefit of the communities, partners, and staff. He acknowledged that the outcome was contentious, with a strong local preference for a three-unitary approach shown in the government's consultation. A cross-party working group will be established to support the transition process, and a community governance review report will be presented in the autumn. Residents are advised to use the futurellrcouncils.gov.uk website for accurate information, and normal services will continue until April 2028.

Stockyard Project

The Stockyard project is progressing through its pre-construction phase, with design, programme, and costs being reviewed before a commitment to the main construction contract. The target completion date remains March 2028. The project is facing construction pressures, and the council is working with its professional team and contractor to explore options for affordability and value for money. No increase to the approved budget is being sought at this stage.

Housing Revenue Account

A review of services revealed pressures within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), with a three-year deficit of £1.2 million needing to be addressed. The council is reviewing its legal requirements, including energy improvements and decent homes standards. A revised revenue and capital programme will be presented in the autumn, with Councillor Browne warning that hard decisions would need to be made to ensure the HRA's viability. Despite these challenges, the council continues to have a positive relationship with the regulator and is demonstrating good practice in consumer standards and regulatory compliance.

Motion on Domestic Abuse Support

Councillor Sharon Butcher proposed a motion, seconded by Councillor Leigh Higgins, to ensure the needs and views of domestic abuse victims are considered in the review and update of housing policies. The motion highlighted that domestic abuse affects individuals differently, and policies should support flexible outcomes, including remaining in the borough where safe and aligned with survivors' wishes. The council resolved to review its housing options, homelessness, and allocations policies, ensuring a survivor-centred and trauma-informed approach. Public consultation with relevant partners and victims will be undertaken, and awareness of support routes will be promoted. The motion was unanimously approved.

Motion on Weather and Community Support

Councillor Pip Allnatt proposed a motion, seconded by Councillor Margaret Glancy, to address the increasing volatility and extremes of weather patterns in the UK, particularly heat, affecting vulnerable residents. The motion suggested utilising underutilised council buildings, such as Parkside, as refuges and enlisting local volunteers and charities to support those in need. An amendment was accepted to ensure rural areas are included in the initial appraisal alongside the town. The motion was unanimously approved, with a commitment to formulate a practical proposal.

Motion on Car Parking Machines

Councillor Pip Allnatt proposed a motion, seconded by Councillor Sharon Butcher, expressing concern over delays in the procurement and installation of new car parking machines. The motion noted the extended wait for implementation and the lack of a clear decision-making process by the Cabinet. The council resolved to urgently consider a paper on the matter, which would be made available to all members and the public. During the debate, Councillor Robert Child, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Corporate Finance, Property and Resources, confirmed that the survey results indicated a preference for cash, card, and app payments, and that the cabinet had decided to proceed with all three options due to the borough's demographics. He acknowledged issues with existing machines and committed to getting the job done. The motion was unanimously approved.

Treasury Management and Prudential Indicators

Councillor Robert Child presented the Cabinet recommendations on the Treasury Management and Actual Prudential Indicators for 2025/26. The report detailed treasury activities for the past financial year, confirming no new borrowing was undertaken and that borrowing remained within statutory limits. The investment return for the year was 4.07%, which positively impacted investment returns and helped mitigate financial pressures on the HRA. The report was unanimously approved.

Scrutiny Annual Report 2025/26

Councillor Mike Brown, Chair of the Scrutiny Committee, presented the Scrutiny Annual Report for 2025/26. He highlighted the committee's role in questioning, challenging, and contributing to policy development. The report was noted by the council.

Audit and Standards Committee Annual Report 2025/26

Councillor Elaine Holmes presented the Audit and Standards Committee Annual Report for 2025/26. The report detailed the committee's work in providing assurance on risk management, financial and internal controls, and governance. The report was noted by the council.

Updated Appointments to Committees

The Monitoring Officer, Clive Tobin, presented a report on updated appointments to committees. A change was made to the Planning Committee membership, with Councillor David Chubb appointed as a substitute in place of Councillor Mike Brown, to ensure compliance with guidance that cabinet members should not sit on the Planning Committee. This was approved by the council.

Constitution Review

The council approved revisions to the Financial Procedure Rules, Council Functions and Procedure Rules (Business of ordinary Council meetings), and Council Functions and Procedure Rules (Right of reply for Members named during Leader's Announcements). Amendments made under delegated authority and potential legislative changes affecting the Planning Committee were also noted. The financial limit for key decisions was confirmed. This was approved by the council.

Programme of Meetings 2026/27

The council approved the proposed programme of meetings for the Municipal Year 2026/27. A concern was raised about the lack of provision for additional meetings to discuss the Local Government Review outcome, but it was noted that Cabinet meetings could be called as required.

Appointments to Outside Bodies

The council appointed representatives to various outside bodies and working groups. This included the appointment of Councillors Butcher and Pritchett to the BID, and Councillor Joe Orson to the Police and Crime Panel.

Climate Change Working Group

The terms of reference for the Member Climate Change Working Group were amended to include monitoring progress on biodiversity action. This change was made because climate change and biodiversity are closely linked. The amended terms of reference were approved by the council.