Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence had been received from Councillors Joe Birkin, Michelle Emmens, Nicki Morley, Stephen Reed, Carolyn Renwick, Jess Stokes, Kevin Tait, and Pam Windley.

Members are requested to declare the existence and nature of any disclosable pecuniary interest and/or other interests, not already on their register of interests, in any items on the agenda and withdraw from the meeting at the appropriate time. 

In respect of Motions from Members under Procedure Rule 10 (Motion B), Councillor A Dale declared that he was a Derbyshire County Councillor and was one of the county council's representatives on the County Council’s Network, which was referenced in the Motion, but this would not preclude him from taking part in the item.

In respect of Motions from Members under Procedure Rule 10 (Motion C), Councillor N Baker declared that he was the Chair of Wingerworth Parish Council.

To approve as a correct record and the Chair to sign the attached Minutes of the Council meeting held on 14 July 2025.

RESOLVED – that the Minutes of the Council meeting held on 14 July 2025 be approved as a true and correct record.

The Chair reported, with sadness, the death of former Council member Richard Marriott at the end of July following a battle with cancer. The Chair spoke about Richard’s lifelong commitment to Grassmoor, where he was actively involved in the cricket team, youth club, working men’s club, and many activities. Richard had raised significant funds for charity following his diagnosis including £2,000 for Weston Park Hospital, £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, and £1,000 had been donated to Ashgate Hospice from funeral contributions. On behalf of the Council, the Chair expressed condolences to Richard’s wife Jackie and his family.

The Chair expressed condolences on behalf of the Council to the Royal Family following the death of The Duchess of Kent.

The Chair reported on events he had attended since the last meeting.  These included a VJ Day Commemoration, the Army Benevolent Fundraising Dinner at Chatsworth, and the Mayor of Chesterfield’s Curry and Quiz Night.  The Chair reported that he had also handed over the 100^th community grant fund cheque, which had gone to Pig Pals, a men’s mental health charity connecting people with animals and nature. Thanks were extended to staff administering the scheme.

The Chair reported that on Wednesday it was National Fitness Day, and he would be visiting all four Council leisure facilities which were participating in the Climb Everest challenge, in support of his Chair’s Charity Appeal. The Chair stated that he would personally take part in the challenge at each venue and encouraged members to attend, support participants, and contribute to the fundraising efforts.

Councillor A Dale conveyed the condolences of the Conservative Group following the passing of former Councillor Richard Marriott.

Councillor N Barker, Leader of the Council, expressed deep sadness at the recent losses within the Derbyshire community.  Gavin Tomlinson KFSM, former Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive, had passed away on 27 August 2025, and Rob Taylor, Gavin’s successor at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue, who had taken up the role in February had passed away on 10 September 2025, following a sudden illness. Both individuals had served with distinction, and their contributions would not be forgotten. The Leader extended heartfelt condolences to their families and friends.

The Leader also offered condolences to Councillor Trish Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, following the recent passing of her husband, Terry Gilby, who had been a distinguished local councillor for many years.

The Leader reported on a recent visit to the new leisure centre and community hub at Clay Cross Active.  Councillor Barker stated that the district now had four high-quality leisure centres, attracting many visitors and supporting active lifestyles and social engagement.

The Leader also reported that in July a rogue waste collector had been sentenced to 13 weeks in prison for illegal rubbish dumping in Eckington, following a successful investigation by Council officers. A closure order had been extended in Arkwright to prevent further antisocial behaviour, and from September to March, customer services drop-in sessions would be held across the community, enabling residents to discuss directly with staff on issues from bin collections to food bank support.

The Leader highlighted ongoing collaborative work with the Integrated Care Board and through the Derbyshire Chief Executives Group, officers had led on the development of a Health Infrastructure Development Model.

The Leader provided an update on the proposals for Local Government Reorganisation.

It was reported that Councillor Mick Smith was the Council’s new Armed Forces Champion.

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule No 8 to allow members of the public to ask questions about the Council’s activities for a period up to fifteen minutes.  The replies to any such questions will be given by the appropriate Cabinet Member.  Questions must be received in writing or by email to the Monitoring Officer by 12 noon twelve clear working days before the meeting.

No questions have been submitted under Procedure Rule No 8 for this meeting.

No questions from the public had been received.

Report of the Head of Paid Service.

Council considered a report of the Managing Director and Head of Paid Service which sought approval for the Council to recruit and establish 19 FTE operatives for food waste service operation.

The report explained that the background and comprehensive and wider detail of the Simpler Recycling Scheme could be found in the Cabinet report, which was attached to the report at Appendix 1.

The report provided a comprehensive overview of the operational requirements necessary to implement a weekly food waste collection service across the North East Derbyshire District Council area. As outlined in the appendix, the introduction of this new service which had been mandated by recent changes in national waste management policy necessitated the recruitment of an additional nineteen staff members. These roles were critical to ensuring the successful rollout and ongoing delivery of the food waste service, which aimed to improve environmental outcomes, reduce landfill dependency, and align with broader sustainability targets.

Some Members expressed concern that a full briefing on the changes had not been provided.  It was agreed that briefing sessions would be arranged.

RESOLVED – That:

1)    the detail and background contained within the Cabinet report, attached at Appendix 1, be noted.

2)    the decisions made by Cabinet on 11 September 2025 relating to Simpler Recycling be noted.

3)    the recruitment and establishment of 19 FTE operatives for implementation of the food waste service operation be approved.

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule No 9.2 to allow Members to ask questions about Council activities.  The replies to any such questions will be given by the Chair of the Council or relevant Committee or the appropriate Cabinet Member.  Questions must be received in writing or by email to the Monitoring Officer by 12 noon twelve clear working days before the meeting. 

The following question has been received.

Question A – Proposed by Councillor A Dale to Councillor S Pickering, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Place

Will the Cabinet Member give serious consideration to the ‘Option 2’ approach set out in the Local Plan Issues and Options consultation, which would plan for fewer homes (330dpa) than the Government’s standard method requires, given the significant concern expressed by residents that building nearly 600 homes per year is totally unsustainable for a largely rural district such as ours and that a lower figure, more closely aligned with local needs and infrastructure capacity, should instead be pursued?

The Chair confirmed that one question had been received.

Question A – Proposed by Councillor A Dale to Councillor S Pickering, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Place

Will the Cabinet Member give serious consideration to the ‘Option 2’ approach set out in the Local Plan Issues and Options consultation, which would plan for fewer homes (330dpa) than the Government’s standard method requires, given the significant concern expressed by residents that building nearly 600 homes per year is totally unsustainable for a largely rural district such as ours and that a lower figure, more closely aligned with local needs and infrastructure capacity, should instead be pursued?

Councillor S Pickering acknowledged that most members probably shared the desire to build fewer than 600 houses in North East Derbyshire. Councillor Pickering confirmed that options would continue to be explored through the Local Plan Working Group and focus groups. However, Councillor Pickering stressed that the Council was bound by Government requirements to use the standard method of assessment, which currently set the figure at just over 600 dwellings. The Local Plan must reflect this figure unless robust evidence was provided to justify a lower number. If a Local Plan was submitted without such evidence, it would be rejected by Government, and a plan could be imposed. Therefore, the Council would continue to review the position until submission, but compliance with the standard assessment was mandatory.

As a supplementary question, Councillor A Dale welcomed that it would continue to be reviewed and asked whether factors such as Office for National Statistics population projections, build-out rates, the extent of Green Belt and Peak District National Park within the district, and the rural character and infrastructure limitations would be considered as part of the evidence gathering process.

Councillor S Pickering agreed these were valid points and confirmed that infrastructure and transport considerations would be included in the Local Plan, which set the framework for the next 30 years. He emphasised the need for constructive work at the Local Plan Working Group to develop a strong evidence base.

In accordance with Council Procedure Rule No 10 to consider Motions on notice from Members.  Motions must be received in writing or by email to the Monitoring Officer by 12 noon twelve clear working days before the meeting. 

The following Motions have been submitted.

Motion A – Submitted by Councillor S Fawcett

Rosh Hashanah

Council notes that Rosh Hashanah begins today at sundown, marking the Jewish New Year—a time of reflection, renewal, and hope. We wish all Jewish residents Shanah Tovah U’Metukah—a good and sweet New Year.

Although only around 100 residents in North East Derbyshire identify as Jewish, they are a valued part of our community. Council reaffirms its commitment to ensuring this district is a safe and welcoming place for all.

Council recognises that antisemitism is rising sharply. The Community Security Trust (CST) recorded 4,103 antisemitic incidents in 2023, the highest annual total on record, with further escalation this year. Incidents have been reported locally, including antisemitic graffiti and intimidation in Chesterfield, proving this hatred is not confined to large cities.

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, adopted by this Council, states that antisemitism can include anti-Zionist rhetoric that denies Jewish people the right to self-determination. Legitimate criticism of any government is welcome, but language that delegitimises Israel or Jewish identity fuels antisemitism.

Through its role in the Community Safety Partnership (CSP), covering a county with over 1,000 Jewish residents, this Council is well placed to embed antisemitism awareness into safety and cohesion strategies.

Council resolves to:

1.          Publicly reaffirm, through this motion, warm wishes for a sweet New Year to Jewish residents and communities in Derbyshire.

2.          Reaffirm adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and endorse its use as a framework for recognising and addressing prejudice.

3.          Request the CSP to embed antisemitism awareness in policing and safety strategies, with regular monitoring and review by the Communities Scrutiny Committee.

4.          Reject antisemitism in all its forms and work with the Jewish community and CST to prevent and respond to incidents.

Motion B – Submitted by Councillor R Shipman

This Council notes with concern the BBC report of 29 August 2025, which revealed that the Government has not undertaken any financial impact assessment of its proposals for local government reorganisation. Instead, Ministers are relying solely on an externally commissioned report prepared for the County Councils Network.

Council believes that proceeding with major structural changes to local government without an independent, government-led cost-benefit analysis is both irresponsible and contrary to the principles of transparency, accountability and prudent financial management. The absence of robust evidence risks significant cost to taxpayers, disruption to services, and undermines public confidence.

While North East Derbyshire District Council is committed to constructive engagement on the future of local government, any proposals must be:

·             Based on clear, independently verified evidence;

·             Demonstrably cost-effective; and

·             Designed to preserve and strengthen local democratic accountability.

Council therefore resolves to:

1.          Oppose the Government’s current proposals for reorganisation until a  ...  view the full agenda text for item COU/48/25-26

The Chair confirmed that three Motions had been submitted and that he would take Motion C first.

Motion C – Submitted by Councillor D Hancock

Council notes with concern the recent decision to prohibit fishing at Wingerworth Lido. The Lido is a long-standing community asset, valued for recreation, wellbeing and heritage. For generations, fishing has been an important activity enjoyed by residents of all ages.

Council recognises that decisions affecting such amenities must be taken in a transparent manner, with clear evidence and proper consultation. In this case, many residents feel that the reasoning behind the decision to stop fishing has not been adequately explained or tested in public. This lack of openness risks undermining trust between the Council and the communities it serves.

Council further notes:

• The health and wellbeing benefits associated with angling and outdoor activity.
• The cultural and historic importance of the Lido to Wingerworth residents.
• The expectation from residents that significant changes to local amenities should involve meaningful consultation before final decisions are taken.

Council therefore resolves to:

1.       Review the decision to prohibit fishing at Wingerworth Lido, ensuring that the process is transparent, evidence-based, and includes consideration of environmental, maintenance and safety concerns.

2.       Undertake a public consultation with residents and local stakeholders on the future use and management of the Lido, including the question of fishing, so that community voices are central to shaping its future.

3.       Report back to Council with recommendations that balance environmental stewardship, community wellbeing, and the wishes of residents, ensuring that the outcome is transparent and clearly communicated.

By adopting this approach, the Council can rebuild confidence, ensure fairness in its decision-making, and protect the Lido as a much-loved part of Wingerworth’s community life.

Councillor D Hancock moved the Motion.  Councillor Hancock talked about the benefits of permitting fishing at the Lido and stated that it was not just the outcome but also the process that had caused concern.  This Motion was about conducting a proper consultation and finding a fair middle ground by bringing everyone to the table.

Councillor R Shipman seconded the Motion. He spoke about his and the community’s concern regarding the decision to end fishing. He wanted a review that was transparent, and community led, involving stakeholders, Wingerworth and the wider District. He also stated that the Council was at risk of legal action over this matter. 

Councillor N Baker spoke in support of the Motion. He spoke regarding concerns about the process and lack of transparency.

Councillor J Barry spoke and provided details of the timeline of the decision.  She stated that the Council had been in correspondence with Clay Cross Angling Club regarding the potential non-renewal of its lease since September 2024, following a report to Asset Management Board (AMB) in August 2024.  The lease had originally been granted in 2005 and needed to be reviewed.  The AMB considered a number of complaints and representations from the community and sought the views of the three Wingerworth Ward Members.  Three months had been allowed  ...  view the full minutes text for item COU/48/25-26

To consider any other matter which the Chair is of the opinion should be considered as a matter of urgency.

There was no urgent business.

The Chair to move:-

That the public be excluded from the meeting during the discussion of the following item(s) of business to avoid the disclosure to them of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3, Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

RESOLVED – that the public be excluded from the meeting during the discussion of the following item of business to avoid the disclosure to them of exempt information as defined in Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

Report of the Managing Director and Head of Paid Service

The Managing Director and Head of Paid Service introduced a report to update and seek views from Council on the revisions to the terms of reference and hosting arrangements of the Derby and Derbyshire Strategic Leadership Board (D2 SLB).

Councillors H Wetherall and N Barker spoke on the item.

RESOLVED – That Council recommends to Cabinet:

a)    The approval of the revised terms of reference set out in Appendix 1.

b)    Agreement that South Derbyshire District Council (SDDC) acts as Host Authority in place of Derbyshire County Council (DCC).

c)     The approval of the annual payment to SDDC of £34,500 per annum for the purposes of hosting and providing hosting support.  The sum to be paid from the Retained Business Rates (held by Derbyshire County Council as the Accountable Body) and to be uplifted by 5% per annum.

d)    The approval of the payment of £2,000 to SDDC from the Retained Business Rates (held by Derbyshire County Council as the Accountable Body) for the purposes of obtaining advice and assistance in relation to the transfer of hosting of the Board and the revised terms of reference.