The Planning Committee of Melton Council met on Thursday 6 August 2026 to discuss a planning application for a change of use at 2 Wallis Close, Melton Mowbray, and to receive an update on the implementation of the National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Functions. The committee ultimately approved the planning application for the children's care home after a lengthy debate and a tied vote on deferral, which the Chair used their casting vote to reject. The committee also noted the upcoming changes to planning delegation regulations.

Planning Application for 2 Wallis Close, Melton Mowbray

The committee considered a planning application for the change of use of a five-bedroom detached dwelling at 2 Wallis Close, Melton Mowbray from a residential dwelling (Use Class C3) to a Children's Care Home (Use Class C2). The application was brought before the committee due to 25 public objections and a call-in by ward councillors.

Officers recommended approval, citing compliance with national and local planning policies, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the Melton Local Plan policies SS1 (Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development), C2 (Housing Mix), D1 (Raising the Standard of Design), and IN2 (Transport, Accessibility and Parking). They argued that the proposed use was appropriate for the sustainable residential location, would not materially alter the character of the area, and would not significantly harm residential amenity. The report also highlighted an evidenced need for children's residential accommodation within Leicestershire, with the proposal contributing to meeting this demand.

However, objectors, including ward councillors Councillor Ian Atherton and Councillor Sharon Butcher, raised concerns about the lack of demonstrated local need, potential parking and highway safety issues exacerbated by the nearby Melton Learning Hub, and the impact on the character of the residential area. Concerns were also raised about the suitability of the location for vulnerable children and the potential for anti-social behaviour.

During the debate, Councillor James Mason proposed deferring the decision to obtain more information from Leicestershire County Council regarding local need and highway issues. This motion was seconded by Councillor Allen Thwaites. However, after a tied vote of four in favour and four against, the Chair, Councillor Christopher Evans, used their casting vote to reject the deferral, stating that he believed it would not be beneficial.

Following this, Councillor Marilyn Gordon proposed refusing the application on the grounds of parking safety. This motion did not receive a seconder. Councillor Mike Brown then proposed approving the application, seconded by Councillor Leigh Higgins. After further debate, the committee voted to approve the application by a narrow margin of five votes to four, with the Chair casting the deciding vote. The Chair stated that despite the concerns raised, there was insufficient planning grounds to refuse the application.

Implementation of the National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Functions

The committee also received a report from Sarah Legg, Assistant Director for Planning, regarding the implementation of the National Scheme of Delegation for Planning Functions, which comes into force on 31 October 2026. This new legislation mandates a national framework for how planning applications are decided, dictating which applications must be determined by officers and which may be considered by committee under specific circumstances.

Key points from the report and subsequent discussion included:

• Mandatory Change: The National Scheme of Delegation is a legal requirement and not a local policy choice. Councils must comply with it from 31 October 2026.
• Schedule 1 Applications: These must be determined by officers and cannot be referred to committee, regardless of local objections or member call-ins. This includes applications such as householder developments, minor residential and commercial developments, and prior approvals.
• Schedule 2 Applications: These are presumed to be determined by officers unless a statutory gateway is met. This gateway requires agreement from a nominated officer and a nominated member that the application raises issues of economic, social, or environmental significance, or significant planning matters. Local objections or ward member requests alone will not be sufficient to trigger committee referral for Schedule 2 applications.
• Constitutional Amendments: Melton Borough Council will need to update its Constitution, Planning Scheme of Delegation, and committee procedures to comply with the new regulations. This will require a decision by Full Council.
• Impact on Committee Role: The Planning Committee's role will become more focused on applications that meet the statutory criteria for committee determination. The number of applications considered by the committee is expected to decrease significantly.
• Transparency and Engagement: While the route to decision-making is changing, engagement with the planning process remains important. Members, parish councils, and residents are encouraged to focus their comments on material planning considerations. The council is exploring ways to ensure continued dialogue between officers and ward members.
• Own-Interest Applications: Specific procedures will be developed for handling applications where the council, its members, or officers have an interest.
• Transitional Arrangements: Any applications not determined before 31 October 2026 will fall under the new regulations.

The committee noted the report and its implications, acknowledging the significant changes ahead and the need for further work on constitutional amendments. Councillor Christopher Evans, Chair of the Planning Committee, assured members that efforts would be made to ensure transparency and continued collaboration between members and officers during this transition.