The Council meeting on Wednesday 7 October 2026 addressed a wide range of issues, including the council's financial performance, changes to planning regulations, and environmental policies. Key decisions included the approval of the Q1 financial outturn, which showed a projected underspend, and the adoption of revised Council Procedure Rules and a new scheme of delegation for planning decisions, necessitated by national legislation.

Leader's Report and Member Questions

Councillor Alan Graves, Leader of the Council, presented his report, highlighting achievements in road maintenance, with a significant reduction in the pothole backlog, and progress in SEND services. He also confirmed the reversal of plans to sell Elvaston Castle, with a new partnership secured for its future. Questions from councillors focused on the A38 Derby Junction scheme funding, Elvaston Castle's future investment, and the allocation of government funding for crisis and resilience.

Revisions to Council Constitution: Review of Council Procedure Rules

The Council debated and voted on proposed amendments to its Council Procedure Rules. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the introduction of prayers at the beginning of meetings, which was met with strong opposition from some councillors who argued it was divisive and inappropriate for a secular council. Amendments were also proposed regarding the time limits for public questions and councillor speeches, with concerns raised about stifling debate and public participation. Ultimately, the proposed changes to the Council Procedure Rules were approved.

Changes to Constitution to Comply with National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Decisions

A substantial debate took place regarding the mandatory changes to the Council's constitution to comply with the national scheme of delegation for planning decisions, which came into effect on 31 October 2026. Councillors expressed significant concerns that these regulations, introduced by the government, would erode local democratic oversight and shift power away from elected members to unelected officers. Despite widespread opposition to the principle of these changes, the Council was legally obliged to adopt them to avoid unlawful decision-making and potential judicial review. The amendments were approved, with many councillors emphasizing that this compliance was not an endorsement of the new regulations.

Change to Committee Membership

Councillor Richard Smith was appointed as a member of the Health Scrutiny Committee, replacing Councillor Wilson.

Derbyshire Pension Board Appointments

The Council approved the appointment of Rachael Radford as an Employer Representative, and the reappointment of John Sadler and the appointment of Philip Branston as Member Representatives to the Derbyshire Pension Board, each for a four-year term.

Performance Monitoring and Budget Monitoring/Forecast Outturn 2026/27 Quarter 1

Councillor John Lawson, Cabinet Member for Finance and Efficiency, presented the Q1 performance and budget monitoring report. The Council was forecasting a net underspend of £1.183m against its revenue budget, with 92% of savings on track for delivery. However, concerns were raised about overspends in Adult Care, Children's Services, and Highways, with action plans being developed to address these. The report also highlighted a significant cumulative deficit on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).

Appointment of Executive Directors

The Council noted the appointments of Chris Henning as Executive Director of Corporate Services and Transformation and Claire Brailsford as Executive Director for Place.

Elected Member Questions

Several questions were raised by elected members. Councillor Rachael Hatchett questioned the allocation of funding for footways, while Councillor Sue Burfoot sought clarification on the Cavendish Road car park legal case and its reputational and financial implications. Councillor Susan Hobson inquired about the Council's assessment of a proposed tourist tax, and Councillor Carol Hart asked for assistance with school transport for pupils attending Heanor Gate Spencer Academy. Councillor Damien Greenhalgh questioned the decision-making process regarding the Glossop Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Notices of Motion

Motion One: Amendment of and Public Consultation for the Environmental Sustainability Strategy (2026-2030)

Councillor Rachael Hatchett proposed a motion calling for the Environmental Sustainability Strategy to include unambiguous recognition of man-made climate change, the commissioning of a Corporate Carbon Reduction Action Plan with clear targets, and a pause for public consultation. Councillor Alan Graves, Leader of the Council, argued against the motion, stating that it focused on words rather than action and that the Council's current strategy was more practical. The motion was ultimately defeated.

Motion Two: Improving Access to Concessionary Bus Travel in Derbyshire

Councillor Alex Dale proposed a motion requesting the Leader to write to the Mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to explore the removal of the 9:30 am weekday start time for concessionary bus passes and to examine the feasibility of an enhanced scheme. The motion was amended to include consideration of local traffic conditions and community support for 20mph limits, and then approved.

Motion Three: NHS Pathways Clinical Trial involving Puberty Blockers

Councillor Paul Maginnis proposed a motion expressing concerns about the NHS puberty blocker trial for children and young people in Derbyshire and requesting the Leader to write to Derbyshire MPs seeking assurances on safeguarding and long-term monitoring. The motion was approved.

Motion Four: Screen and Creative Industries Plan

Councillor Sarah Reaney proposed a motion to recognise the creative industries as a priority sector and request the Cabinet to develop a Screen and Creative Industries plan, explore options for a coordinating function, and engage with regional partners. The motion was approved.

The meeting concluded with the defeat of Councillor Hatchett's motion regarding the Environmental Sustainability Strategy.