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 full, independent financial impact assessment has been commissioned and published.
2. Call on the Secretary of State to delay any further decisions or implementation until such an assessment is completed and subject to proper public and parliamentary scrutiny.
3. Affirm this Council’s willingness to work constructively with partners on any evidence-based reforms which genuinely improve efficiency and protect local democracy.
4. Write to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and to copy local MPs, the County Councils Network and the District Councils Network, to convey this Council’s position.
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.
Minutes:
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 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:
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 for member feedback and in accordance with the expired agreement, the Council then issued a six month notice to quit. Councillor Barry stated that this had been a robust and considered process. The angling club had been given three months’ notice of the intention to serve notice and nine months in advance of the fishing rights ending. She added that the process to set up a Friends of Wingerworth Lido Group was already underway.
Councillor J Barry proposed, and Councillor N Barker seconded the following amendment:
Amend the Council resolves section of the Motion, to read:
Council resolves to:
In seconding the amendment Councillor N Barker stated that the Council was not anti-fishing and fully accepted the benefits of angling. He stated that he had been contacted by a number of different people and groups who had expressed different preferences for what to do at the Lido.
Councillor Liggett asked why biodiversity could not run alongside angling.
Councillor A Dale spoke about people in the countryside feeling their way of life was under attack and issues around the governance and transparency of the Asset Management Board. Councillor Dale asked if Councillor J Barry would accept an amendment to report back to full Council to ensure transparency. Councillor Barry did not accept this proposed amendment.
Councillor F Adlington-Stringer spoke about the process that had already been ongoing for a year, and that it needed to be moved forward with everyone involved.
Councillor M Thacker MBE JP expressed concerns regarding a licence being revoked and stated that he could only support the amendment with more information provided on the framework and timescales for the review.
Councillor M Foster expressed concerns regarding the lack of transparency.
Councillor R Shipman and N Baker spoke against the amendment.
Councillor K Gillott spoke to the amendment and suggested adding a fourth point, to require Asset Management Board to report its conclusion and any action it proposes to take back to the Environment Scrutiny Committee.
Councillor J Barry confirmed she was happy to accept the suggestion and add the fourth point to her amendment.
Councillor D Hancock stated that he would not support the amendment because the process was flawed. He would not accept the Motion unless it was agreeing to come back to Council; not coming back to Council was an attempt to hide what was going on.
In accordance with Council Procedure Rule 14.4 Councillor M Foster requested a recorded vote. This was supported by Councillors D Hancock and R Shipman.
For: 26
Councillors N Barker, J Barry, G Baxter, R Beech, D Cheetham, K Clegg, A Cooper, S Cornwell, M Durrant, S Fawcett, C Fletcher, C Gare, K Gillott, L Hartshorne, D Higgon, P Kerry, C Lacey, T Lacey, F Petersen, S Pickering, K Rouse, D Skinner, Caroline Smith, Christine Smith, M Smith, L Stone
Against: 18
Councillors F Adlington-Stringer, P Antcliff, N Baker, S Clough, C Cupit, A Dale, L Deighton, P Elliott, M Foster, D Hancock, P Jones, W Jones, H Liggett, M Roe, R Shipman, R Spooner, M Thacker, R Welton
The amendment was passed and became the substantive Motion.
Councillor F Adlington-Stringer stated that the best approach would be to have a community group, such as the Friends of Wingerworth Lido, who would make the decision.
Councillor C Cupit urged Cabinet to reflect on the debate and improve engagement.
Councillor D Hancock stated that he was disappointed but there was some form of consultation in the Motion to be voted upon so he would now support it.
The Motion was put to the vote and passed.
RESOLVED -
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:
Council resolves to:
4. To require Asset Management Board to report its conclusion and any action it proposes to take back to the Environment Scrutiny Committee.
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:
Councillor Fawcett moved the Motion in recognition of the Jewish New Year, emphasising reflection and resolved. He highlighted the significance of Jewish life as part of British life and referenced recent incidents, including the 7 October 2023 attack—the largest single attack since the Holocaust—and recent hate crimes in the UK. He stressed the role of education and the Community Safety Partnership (CSP) in preventing hate crime and reaffirmed the Council’s adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism.
Councillor N Barker seconded the Motion and extended warm wishes to the Jewish community and all faiths. He highlighted rising hate crime statistics nationally, including against Muslims. He asked Councillor S Fawcett to accept a friendly amendment to reorder the resolved and change the wording to support all victims of hate crime. The proposed amendment was:
Council resolves to:
Councillor Fawcett accepted the amendment proposed by Councillor N Barker.
Councillors D Hancock spoke about the right to live free from hate and the need to respect faith without reducing individuals to identity alone. Councillor A Dale supported recognising antisemitism whilst broadening the Motion to address all hate crime. He stressed that internal politics should be separated from local community relations. Councillor M Thacker MBE advocated for practical council action to promote inclusion and improve residents’ lives. Councillor M Durrant welcomed the amended Motion, emphasising that one victim was too many and committed to progressing the work through Communities Scrutiny Committee.
Councillor F Adlington Stringer spoke about the need for unity and proposed a friendly amendment to include tackling anti-Palestinian racism. Councillor S Fawcett declined the proposed amendment, citing the need to avoid international political divisions.
The Motion was put to the vote and passed.
RESOLVED –
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. Reject antisemitism in all its forms and work with the Jewish community and CST (Community Security Trust) to prevent and respond to incidents.
4. Request the Communities Scrutiny Committee to review how this Council, its CSP (Community Safety Partnership) and partners, work to tackle antisemitism and any form of hate crime, including ensuring awareness of it is embedded in its policies and strategies and to submit any recommendations it may reach to Cabinet.
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:
Council therefore resolves to:
Councillor Shipman moved the Motion, raising concerns about the ongoing process of local government reorganisation, citing lack of leadership, accountability, and financial impact assessment. The Motion called for a pause and reconsideration of the process.
Councillor Hancock seconded the Motion, stating that change without financial impact assessment was reckless. He highlighted that reorganisations elsewhere had failed to deliver savings, leaving residents to bear costs.
Councillors A Dale stated that he was not opposed to LGR in principle but criticized the rushed process. He stated that if savings were the sole aim, then existing boundaries could have been retained.
Councillor K Gillott stated that despite ministerial changes, the process continued on the same timescale. He urged Councillors to wait for the Council meeting in November when the full evidence would be presented.
Councillor M Thacker MBE JP expressed strong reservations about the process, citing minimal public engagement and spiralling costs.
Councillor H Wetherall raised concerns about the financial benefits and democratic deficit and highlighted that simultaneous health reorganisation could create turbulence.
Councillor N Barker acknowledged the concerns but stressed that the process was underway and disengagement would be detrimental. He advocated for shaping the outcome rather than opposing it outright.
In his right of reply Councillor R Shipman argued that the Motion did not prevent engagement but signalled opposition to the current approach.
The Motion was put to the vote and lost.