This week in Derbyshire:

Children's Health and Dementia Support Under Scrutiny

The Health Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 1 September 2026 to review critical reports on child safety and the ongoing implementation of the Derbyshire Dementia Strategy. The committee also looked at initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles and planned its work for the year ahead.

Child Death Overview Panel's Annual Report

A key item was the Annual Report of the Derby and Derbyshire Child Death Overview Panel (CDOP) for 2024-2025. This report is vital for understanding and preventing future child fatalities. It was expected to highlight themes such as palliative care and invasive Group A Streptococcus infections, alongside the achievements of the Child Death Review Team in training and safety strategy development.

Dementia Strategy Progress

The committee was also set to receive an update on the Joint Derbyshire and Derby Dementia Strategy 2025-2030. The focus was on progress made in Year 2 (2026/27), including maintaining diagnosis rates, reducing waiting times for Memory Assessment Services, and expanding diagnostic pathways. Efforts to involve people living with dementia and their carers in service development were also on the agenda.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

An overview of the work by Active Partners Trust (Active Derbyshire) was planned to showcase initiatives like Making our Move and Walk Derbyshire, aimed at encouraging physical activity. The report was also to detail support for individuals with long-term health conditions.

Looking Ahead: The Committee's Work Programme

The committee was scheduled to review its work programme for 2026/27, with future topics including updates from Healthwatch Derbyshire, discussions on outpatient services, urgent care, podiatry, and mental health rehabilitation services.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Pension Fund Investments and Local Government Reorganisation on the Agenda

The Pensions and Investments Committee met on Wednesday 2 September 2026 to discuss the Derbyshire Pension Fund's investments, stewardship activities, and the significant implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

Investment Strategy and Performance

The committee was set to review the fund's asset allocation, recent investment activity, and long-term performance. The report, prepared by the Investments Manager and an Independent External Adviser, sought approval for the investment strategy, including analysis of market conditions and economic outlook.

Stewardship and Responsible Investment

A report on stewardship activities by LGPS Central Limited (LGPSC), the fund's pooling company, was to be discussed. This covers engagement and voting activities in line with the Local Government Pension Scheme (Pooling, Management and Investment of Fund) Regulations 2026, crucial for responsible investment.

Preparing for Local Government Reorganisation

A significant item was the update on the implications of LGR for the Derbyshire Pension Fund. This included outlining potential options for a new administering authority from April 2028, following the cessation of existing councils and the creation of two new unitary authorities. The report explored options such as splitting the role, designating one of the new authorities, or creating a new Single Purpose Pensions Authority. Funding implications and potential impacts on employer contributions were also to be discussed.

LGPS Reforms and Future Governance

The committee was also to receive updates on the LGPS Fit for the Future reforms, the 2025 actuarial valuation, and changes to survivor benefits and death grants. Discussions were also planned on the Pensions Dashboards Programme and the McCloud remedy implementation.

Local Authority Pension Fund Forum Membership

The committee was to consider the Derbyshire Pension Fund's membership of the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum (LAPFF), noting its role in promoting high standards of corporate governance.

LGPS Central Pool Governance

Updates on changes to the governance arrangements of the LGPS Central Pool were also on the agenda, reflecting the 'Fit for the Future' reforms.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Recruitment for Senior Executive Director Role

The Recruitment Panel met on Tuesday 1 September 2026 to conduct interviews for the crucial role of Executive Director - Place. This is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing services related to the county's development and infrastructure. The public was excluded from this part of the meeting due to the sensitive nature of the discussions.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Other Matters

Children's External Residential Placements Under Review

The People Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 4 September 2026 to consider a proposal for a scrutiny review into children's external residential placements. This follows previous concerns raised about the costs associated with non-Derbyshire County Council maintained homes. The committee was also scheduled to receive an introduction to the Child Justice System and Youth Justice Service and review its work programme.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

This week in Derbyshire:

Derbyshire Gears Up to Host Tour de France Femmes with £2.4m Funding Boost

Derbyshire is set to become a stage for international cycling as the Cabinet met on Thursday, 30 July 2026, to approve the acceptance of up to £2.4 million in funding from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to host Stage 2 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in 2027. This significant decision will bring a major sporting event to the county, with potential economic and tourism benefits.

What This Means for Residents

Hosting the Tour de France Femmes is a high-profile event that will put Derbyshire on the global map. While the exact routes and associated road closures are yet to be finalised, residents can expect increased visitor numbers, potential disruption during the event, and opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the influx of tourists and media attention. The funding will cover Derbyshire's hosting responsibilities, ensuring the event is delivered successfully. The decision was deemed urgent, and the usual call-in period was waived, highlighting the importance of securing this opportunity.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

New Environmental Strategy Aims for a Greener Derbyshire

The Cabinet also approved a new Environmental Sustainability Strategy for 2026-2030, aiming to embed environmental considerations across all council operations and services. This strategy expands on previous climate change initiatives, focusing on eight key themes: protecting the natural environment, efficient resource use, clean energy, air quality, waste reduction, climate resilience, sustainable travel, and connecting people with nature.

What This Means for Residents

This strategy signals a renewed commitment to tackling environmental challenges. Residents can expect to see initiatives that promote energy efficiency in homes and public buildings, efforts to improve air quality in towns and cities, and programmes to reduce waste and encourage recycling. The strategy aligns with the Council's duties under the Environment Act 2021, which places a legal obligation on public bodies to consider environmental impacts. Councillor Carol Wood, Cabinet Member for Environment, is a key figure in driving these initiatives forward.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

South Derbyshire Growth Zone Project Receives Budget Boost

The Cabinet approved activities to increase the budget for the South Derbyshire Growth Zone (SDGZ) project to £89.100 million. This decision aims to accelerate the delivery of essential infrastructure and development in the region, including the submission of a Full Business Case for National Highways Growth and Housing Accelerator funding to address a funding gap.

What This Means for Residents

The South Derbyshire Growth Zone is a significant development project that aims to create jobs and housing. The increased budget and accelerated timeline mean that residents can expect to see progress on infrastructure improvements, such as new roads and utilities, which will support economic growth and improve connectivity in the area. This project is crucial for the long-term development and prosperity of South Derbyshire.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Other Matters

Treasury Management and Capital Outturn Reports Reviewed

The Cabinet noted the Treasury Management Outturn Report for 2025-26, confirming compliance with prudential indicators. They also reviewed the Capital Outturn for the same period, noting that capital expenditure totalled £114.130m, with £11.168m financed through borrowing.

Investigatory Powers Policy Updated

The Cabinet approved a revised Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) and Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) Policy. This update strengthens safeguards and governance around the use of investigatory powers, without introducing new powers.

Highways Programme Delivery Noted

The Cabinet noted the successful delivery of the 2025-26 Highways Capital Programme, valued at over £60m, and acknowledged additional external funding secured for priority schemes.

Extra Care Scheme Procurement Approved

Approval was given to procure a care provider for the Waltham House Extra Care Scheme in Wirksworth, with a contract valued at up to £2,889,432 over seven years. This ensures continued care and support for residents.

Recruitment Panel Meets for Key Executive Director Interviews

The Recruitment Panel met on Friday, 31 July 2026, to conduct interviews for the crucial role of Executive Director - Corporate Services & Transformation. This is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing corporate services and driving transformation initiatives within the council. The meeting was held in private, as is standard practice for such recruitment processes, to protect the confidentiality of candidates and sensitive information.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

This week in Derbyshire:

Council Faces Critical Decisions on Waste Reforms and Joint Venture Performance

Derbyshire County Council's Place Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 22 July 2026 to discuss national waste reforms and the performance of its joint ventures. Meanwhile, the Trading Committee met on Monday 20 July 2026 to review the activities of two key companies. These discussions have significant implications for council services and how public money is managed.

Navigating National Waste Reforms: A Greener Future for Derbyshire?

The Place Scrutiny Committee received a presentation on the national Collection and Packaging Reforms (CPR). These reforms, which began in March 2026, aim to simplify recycling for households and shift the financial burden of managing packaging waste from taxpayers to producers. The changes mandate waste collectors to handle four core streams: residual waste, food and garden waste, paper and card, and all other dry recyclable materials.

What this means for residents: While the reforms aim for simpler recycling, the details of how local authorities will implement them are still being worked out. The extended producer responsibility aspect means packaging producers will fund waste management, potentially leading to changes in product costs. A Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers, expected in October 2027, could also impact the composition and value of materials collected through kerbside recycling. The committee was asked to simply note the presentation, indicating that decisions on how Derbyshire will adapt are still in progress.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Joint Ventures Under Scrutiny: Vertas and Concertus Performance Reviewed

The Trading Committee met on Monday 20 July 2026 to review the performance of two significant joint ventures: Vertas Derbyshire Ltd (VDL) and Concertus Derbyshire Ltd (CDL). These companies, in which the Council holds a 49% shareholding, deliver a range of services.

VDL's Successes and Challenges: Vertas Derbyshire Ltd, responsible for cleaning, caretaking, and grounds maintenance, reported significant savings and capital investment in machinery. Notably, it received a King's Award for Enterprise. However, the company is facing challenges with affordability due to rising property running costs not keeping pace with inflation.

CDL's Financial Performance: Concertus Derbyshire Ltd, which provides architectural, health and safety, and project management services, presented a more challenging financial picture, with year-end accounts showing a net profit loss. Delays in capital expenditure, particularly in education, were identified as a key factor.

What this means for residents: The performance of these joint ventures directly impacts the quality and cost of services delivered by the council. While VDL's successes are positive, the financial pressures on CDL and VDL's affordability issues could have implications for service delivery and the council's overall financial health. The committee was asked to note and comment on the presentations, suggesting ongoing oversight of these crucial partnerships.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Other Matters

Future Work Programmes and Public Engagement

The Place Scrutiny Committee also discussed its work programme for 2026-27, considering topics such as Emergency Planning, Biodiversity Net Gain, and the Highways Capital Programme. A 30-minute slot was allocated for public questions, demonstrating a commitment to engaging residents in council decision-making.

This week in Derbyshire:

Council Faces Critical Decisions on School Transport and Financial Regulations

Derbyshire County Council's Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, is set to tackle crucial issues that will impact residents across the county, from how young people travel to school to the fundamental rules governing council finances. The meeting will also address significant policy changes and hear from elected members on pressing local concerns.

Overhauling School Transport: New Policies for Fairness and Independence

A major focus of the meeting will be the proposed revisions to the Council's Procedure Rules, which form part of its Constitution. These changes aim to streamline council meetings and ensure greater efficiency. Key amendments include clarifying the business for various types of council meetings, setting a minimum number of Ordinary Council meetings, and refining procedures for public and member questions. These updates are designed to make council proceedings more transparent and accessible.

The Council will also consider the report and recommendations from its Independent Remuneration Panel regarding the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026/27. This will determine how councillors are compensated for their work, a decision that directly impacts public trust and the ability of diverse individuals to serve.

Furthermore, the Council will review updated Financial Regulations. These regulations are the bedrock of responsible financial management, ensuring that public money is spent wisely and ethically. The proposed amendments aim to clarify responsibilities, particularly regarding budget control and severance payments, and will be crucial for maintaining public confidence in the council's stewardship of funds.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Planning Reforms and Road Safety: Councillors Debate Local Control and Public Well-being

The Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, will also feature debates on two significant Notices of Motion. The first, proposed by Councillor Alan Graves, addresses the government's planning reforms. This motion expresses strong opposition to reforms that could diminish the role of elected councillors in planning decisions, arguing for the restoration of local democratic oversight. It calls for the council to protect community interests in its minerals and waste planning responsibilities and to report on how these reforms will affect these functions. This debate is vital for ensuring that local communities have a meaningful say in development that shapes their neighbourhoods.

The second Notice of Motion, proposed by Councillor Gez Kinsella, focuses on reducing road casualties across Derbyshire. It calls for the prioritised rollout of 20mph speed limits in areas identified by road safety and public health benefits, with input from local communities. The motion also proposes a communications and engagement strategy to encourage behaviour change and requests that the matter be referred to the Cabinet for further consideration. This initiative directly impacts the safety and well-being of all residents, particularly children and vulnerable road users.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Other Matters

Safeguarding Children and Creative Industries

Two other Notices of Motion are scheduled for discussion. One, proposed by Councillor Paul Maginnis, raises concerns about an NHS-linked puberty blocker trial, particularly regarding the recruitment of young children. It calls for assurances on safeguarding and informed consent, and for a potential pause on recruitment. The second motion, proposed by Councillor Sarah Reaney, aims to establish Derbyshire as a screen and creative industries destination, requesting the development of a plan to support this growing sector and explore delivery models for creative ventures.

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Risk Management

The Audit Committee met on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, to scrutinise the council's financial health and risk management strategies. A key focus was the Place department's risk management, with discussions on challenges like adapting to extreme weather and maintaining highways assets. The committee also reviewed the council's performance and budget outturn for the 2025-26 financial year, noting a net underspend but highlighting significant pressures in Children's Services and Adult Social Care. The cumulative deficit on the Dedicated Schools Grant also remains a concern. Updates on the counter fraud strategy and the National Fraud Initiative were also presented, alongside the Internal Audit Annual Report, which maintained a Limited overall assurance opinion, indicating ongoing control issues.

You can find more details about this meeting here.

Derbyshire Police and Crime Panel Discusses Policing Reforms and Serious Violence

The Derbyshire Police and Crime Panel met on Thursday, 16 July 2026, to discuss significant issues facing policing in the county. A key topic was the government's White Paper, 'From Local to National: A New Model for Policing', which proposes substantial reforms including the abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners by 2028 and the potential creation of a National Police Service. The panel also received updates on drug dealing, substance misuse, and serious violence, including violence against women and girls (VAWG). The panel considered the recruitment of independent members and reviewed its annual report.

You can find more details about this meeting here.