The Place Scrutiny Committee of Derbyshire Council met on Wednesday 13 May 2026 to discuss the development of the Environmental Sustainability Strategy (2026-2030) and the council's work programme for the upcoming year. The meeting also included a session for public questions.

Environmental Sustainability Strategy (2026-2030)

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a second update on the development of the Environmental Sustainability Strategy (2026-2030). This strategy is intended to replace the previous Climate Change Strategy and provide a comprehensive framework for the council's environmental responsibilities. The report pack outlined that the strategy would focus on eight thematic priority areas: conservation and enhancement of Derbyshire's natural environment and landscapes; efficient use of fuel, energy, and water; clean energy generation and use; air quality; circular economy and resource use; extreme and adverse weather resilience; improving sustainable travel; and strengthening people's connection with the natural environment. The strategy aims to deliver environmental, economic, and social benefits, such as improved health and wellbeing, reduced fuel poverty, and a more resilient local economy. The report pack indicated that the strategy was being developed collaboratively with all council departments and was scheduled for Cabinet consideration in Quarter 1 of 2026-27. The committee was invited to provide feedback to inform the finalisation of the strategy.

The report pack detailed the proposed priorities for each of the eight themes. For instance, under Caring for Derbyshire's natural environment and landscapes, priorities included embedding environmental stewardship, delivering a coordinated approach to nature recovery, growing and connecting trees, woodlands, and hedgerows, making development better for nature, protecting distinctive landscapes, and supporting sustainable land management. Under Improving air quality, priorities focused on reducing the council's own impact, supporting cleaner transport, working with partners, and helping improve air quality inside homes. The strategy also highlighted the importance of preparing for extreme and adverse weather, with priorities such as strengthening the council's own resilience, protecting vulnerable people and communities, reducing long-term risks from flooding, and building community awareness.

The report pack also outlined the rationale for developing the new strategy, noting that without it, the council would lack a framework to meet its ongoing environmental responsibilities and statutory duties under the Environment Act 2021, including the Strengthened Biodiversity Duty. The recommended option was to support the completion and implementation of the proposed strategy.

Work Programme Discussion

The committee was also scheduled to discuss its work programme for 2026-27. Possible items for future discussion included more detail around the Highways Policy and Highways Innovation, as well as an update on the draft National Planning Policy Framework.

Public Questions

The agenda also allocated time for public questions, with a maximum of 30 minutes in total. The procedure for submitting questions was outlined, requiring written notice by a specified deadline. Questions could be asked on any item within the scope of the committee's responsibilities.