Derbyshire news

Devolution top of the agenda at East Midlands Chamber’s Annual State of the Economy Review

Businesses believe devolution could hold the cards to a more prosperous East Midlands economy – but many have said they want to see Leicestershire at the table with Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The proposed East Midlands Mayoral County Combined Authority was one of the key discussion points at East Midlands Chamber’s inaugural State of the Economy Review, held in partnership with the University of Leicester and Geldards LLP.

More than 50 business and academic leaders attended the event, held at emh group’s headquarters in Coalville today (16 December), which featured panels of business leaders speaking about how they have been affected by economic issues over the past year and future policy needs.

Amber Valley MP Nigel Mills and Nottingham North MP Alex Norris also gave speeches, in which they explained the latest situation with the East Midlands devolution deal – currently undergoing a public consultation with a view to being established in May 2024 – and how it could drive investment to the region.

The deal under review includes the local authorities across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, with a pledge to bring £1.14bn into those two counties over 30 years.

Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs at the Chamber, said: “There is a growing appetite among our business community to devolve decision-making powers over key issues like economic affairs and transport to local areas that have a greater understanding of their needs.

“While there was once a time when companies may not have wanted to wade into the debate over political structures, they have witnessed first-hand the benefits felt by their counterparts in other areas of the country with elected mayors and seen the scale of additional inward investment that devolution has facilitated.

“There was genuine excitement from businesses in the room on the opportunities devolution will bring, but also a concern that Leicestershire may end up missing out as a result of not being part of the current Derbyshire-Nottinghamshire deal.

“For businesses, the three counties are felt to be a natural economic area of co-operation – as devolution progresses, political leaders must present a clear vision for how they ensure Leicester and Leicestershire won’t be disadvantaged.

“When discussing our region’s USP, it was clear it all comes down to us being a Centre of Trading Excellence – a place for making things, moving them and innovating in how we do this – and this is something we have called on the Government to back further in our Business Manifesto for Growth via a package of measures to improve investment, innovation, infrastructure and international trade.”

The Annual State of the Economy Review took place against a backdrop of the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, which paints picture of declining activity throughout the past year but a slight renewal of confidence ahead of 2023 should the political environment stabilise.

A day earlier, the Bank of England raised interest rates from 3% to 3.5% in its latest fiscal intervention to arrest inflation, which was 10.7% in the year to November.

Chris added: “Our Quarterly Economic Survey has illustrated the myriad cost pressures and capacity constraints that firms have faced throughout the year, largely due to global headwinds but also because of our own doing in some cases.

“Looking ahead, businesses are acutely aware 2023 could be another tricky year to navigate as we enter a widely-predicted global recession, although a much shallower and shorter one than in 2008.

“As interest rates hit 3.5% and further forecasted raises are likely to impact further on already-dwindling investment intentions, there are things the Government can do to ‘get the basics right’, as we have stated in our manifesto.

“With four in five businesses with vacancies struggling to recruit throughout the year, we should be helping them to invest in skills – whether that be through expanding the remit of the Annual Investment Allowance so they can claim against training or making the Apprenticeship Levy more flexible to encompass a range of entry-level roles.

“Exporters are also growing frustrated with barriers to international trade and our relationship with the EU may once more become a big issue for 2023, while businesses will be eager to see new markets open up via trade deals to connect our region with the rest of the world.”

Chris Hobson, East Midlands Chamber

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Chesterfield Champion assists in bringing The Institute of Quarrying to new Derbyshire HQ

A Chesterfield Champion and member of the town’s Property and Construction Group has assisted in bringing forward a planning application to transform Derbyshire’s National Stone Centre into a world-class visitor experience.

A detailed planning application for a £6.5m transformation of the centre which draws on influences from local rock formations for the building’s form, has now been jointly submitted.

The proposed new National Stone Centre will embody strong references and links to the area’s geology and industrial heritage, including the overhanging rock formations found in local gritstone outcrops, such as Black Rocks and Stanage Edge.

Phase One of the project includes proposals for a 100 seater café/restaurant; four naturally lit classrooms with a combined capacity of 120 learners; 700m2 of museum/exhibition space; a souvenir shop; Changing Places facilities; a new thematic children’s playground; and a 1200m2 open-air circular piazza for community events.

Working closely with The Institute of Quarrying and Babenko Associates, Rodgers Leask prepared a Transport Statement, Travel Plan and Flood Risk Assessment to support the application.

Commenting on the job, Jack Lindsay, Senior Transport Planner at Rodgers Leask, said: “Having visited the site a number of times to support design development, it is clear to see that the proposals will result in a fantastic facility for all future users and it’s great to have been able to support a site that considers and enhances access opportunities for all”.

Rodgers Leask’s Traffic and Transportation team helped Babenko Associates develop a masterplan that caters for the predicted increase in multi-modal trips to the centre, with improved pedestrian connections, the installation of electric car charging facilities, bicycle storage and the commitment to implementing a range of suitable travel plan measures.

James Thorne is chief executive officer of the Institute of Quarrying, which has merged with the National Stone Centre. He says: “In 2021 the value of tourism to the Peak District and Derbyshire’s economy was estimated at £1.96 billion. A reimagined and reinvigorated National Stone Centre will bring new visitors, as well as providing a focal point for engaging the public, schools and colleges in the science, history, present and future of the quarrying and mineral products industry.

“We are delighted to have reached this point in the project, which makes everything feel so much more real. This planning application is the end result of over a year’s consultation and engagement with all of our stakeholders. We have listened and learned, taking on board feedback that has helped shape our application.

“We firmly believe that our plans represent an exciting moment in the history of the National Stone Centre, delivering a unique building that is both fit for purpose and inspiring for generations to come. It’s the home that such a significant collection deserves, as well as proudly representing what is now the largest manufacturing sector in the UK.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire says: “We’re proud to support the Institute of Quarrying’s exciting plans for the National Stone Centre near Wirksworth. These plans signal a positive step towards their goal of creating an extraordinary new centre of excellence that will not only attract visitors from across the UK but will also support local jobs and provide unique educational opportunities that will benefit both visitors and residents alike.

“As a valued Strategic Partner, the Institute of Quarrying shares our commitment to increasing the value of tourism and promoting the Peak District and Derbyshire as a sustainable, world-class destination. The National Stone Centre is a great public asset that will help deliver these goals and more – and securing its future is so important.”

Rodgers Leask and Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

National Stone Centre plans

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Anti-violence bee set to arrive in Chesterfield

A thought-provoking anti-violence monument has arrived in Derbyshire ready to begin a county-wide tour, arriving in Chesterfield on Wednesday, 14th December.

Originally created for Manchester, the 11ft tall monument was created using various weapons, including knives and firearms, seized from the city’s streets.

The monument represents a firm stance against all forms of violence and the visit is set to highlight Derbyshire Police’s dedication to preventing, and talking about, acts of violence.

Whilst it is in Derbyshire, officers will be on hand to give advice, answer any questions and talk to visitors. The aim is to prevent violence, whatever it’s form, through a dedicated campaign which seeks to spread the anti-violence message across Derbyshire and beyond. It is hoped the bee will also get people thinking and talking about the issues affecting their communities and what they can do if they have concerns.

The visit follows the success of the knife angel’s visit to Derbyshire, which is made by the same company and started some really key conversations in communities.

The bee will also be spreading its wings and its messaging to youngsters in a number of schools and colleges during its month-long trek across Derbyshire.

Knitters and crafters have also been sending in hand-made bees, and whilst visitors are speaking to officers there will be the chance to grab one of these, which will contain anti-violence messaging, and sign up to our e-mail alert system, Derbyshire Alert.

Anyone who picks up one of these bees is encouraged to share their photos and engage with us on social media, tagging Derbyshire Constabulary and using the hashtag #BeeUnitedAgainstViolence.

Chief Superintendent Hayley Barnett, from Derbyshire Constabulary, was there to welcome the bee and said: “This is very much about education, this is about getting the message out there that, as a society, we will not tolerate violence in any form.

“Whether that’s domestic abuse, whether that’s violence against women or girls, or knife and gun crime which is very much about what this monument depicts.

“All of the guns and knives were recovered from the streets of Manchester, so, every one of those represents, for me, one life saved potentially and also preventing that impact on the families as well.

“So I think it’s a really important piece to get that message out there that we want to both reduce violence and absolutely preventing it in the first place, but actually where violence does take place we want people to have the confidence to come forward in the absolute knowledge and understanding that we will do everything we can to help that person and bring perpetrators to justice.”

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Consultation begins on £1.14 billion devolution plans for our region

A public consultation about devolution for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham has begun.

The consultation is taking place from Monday 14 November until Monday 9 January 2023 and is an opportunity for everyone in the area to have their say about devolution proposals. It is open to residents, businesses, community and voluntary groups, and other organisations in the region.

Derbyshire County Council leaders, and those of Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, and Nottingham City Council all signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at Rolls Royce in Derby, following an announcement from the Government that a package of new powers and funding, worth £1.14 billion, were available for the area.

Since August the councils have been working on agreeing a more detailed proposal for consultation, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area.

The 4 councils agreed to go ahead with a public consultation as the next step in the process, so everyone has the chance to give their views on the proposal.

Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Devolution is about getting a better deal for Derbyshire and the East Midlands and achieving a fair share for our region. It will bring us more money and mean we can make more meaningful decisions here, rather than in London.

“This deal will bring more and better jobs and opportunities for training, improve the local economy, result in better transport and housing, and accelerate our route to Net Zero. I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and give us their views on devolution.

“A devolution deal, should it be agreed, would be the beginning, not the end. We’re determined to build on this deal over time, as other areas have done.”

Devolution would provide the region with a guaranteed income stream of £38 million per year over a 30-year period, and would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one of the biggest in the country.

If the plans go ahead, it would mean a new regional mayor and it would create the first of a new type of combined authority for the 2 counties and cities, which requires new legislation from central government.

The new elected regional mayor, like those who are already in place in other areas, would represent the whole area. The role of the mayor would be to look at major issues affecting the whole region, give the area a bigger voice, and take advantage of local knowledge and expertise.

As well as the £1.14 billion, devolution plans include an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land, and control over a range of budgets like the Adult Education Budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

Devolution would mean that a future mayor and combined authority could:

  • work towards Net Zero and cleaner air with new low carbon homes, retrofit existing houses with external wall insulation, promote the use of renewable energy, and protect and enhance green spaces, like areas for wildlife and green verges.
  • build on the region’s existing knowledge and expertise in green technology and promote the growth of a future low carbon economy by investing in related skills training at colleges and other training facilities.
  • set up and coordinate smart integrated ticketing and enhanced concessionary fares schemes.
  • work with Homes England to build more affordable homes, by using new powers to buy land and housing (With district and borough council consent).
  • enhance the region’s economy by developing new commercial space to maximise opportunities.
  • work with national government on initiatives to address homelessness, domestic abuse, community safety, social mobility, and support for young people.
  • take advantage of economies of scale by using combined and devolved budgets to deliver more value for taxpayers and more cost-efficient services

The 4 councils sent initial proposals to negotiate a combined devolution deal back in March 2022, after being named as pathfinder areas by the Government in February and then being invited to apply for a devolution deal.

The councils have been working with the government to develop details of the deal, alongside discussions with district and borough councils, businesses, and other stakeholders.

If the devolution deal is formally approved, the government will pass legislation bringing a new combined authority for the East Midlands into existence. The first election for a regional mayor for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, would be in May 2024.

The regional mayor would lead the new combined authority, which would also include representatives from local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

The devolution deal would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

Find out more about the consultation at: http://www.eastmidlandsdevolution.co.uk/have-your-say/

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Derbyshire strikes gold in national visitor attraction accolades

Derbyshire has struck gold in the national accolades designed to showcase visitor attractions that go the extra mile to provide a high-quality day out.

Three local tourism businesses have received recognition in the VisitEngland 2021-2022 Visitor Attraction Accolades which celebrate the quality and diversity of visitor experiences across the country – with Derbyshire taking home two of three Gold accolades for the East Midlands.

Chatsworth and The Heights of Abraham each received a prestigious Gold accolade, whilst Denby Pottery Village won the coveted accolade for Best Told Story.

The winning attractions have gained the accolades based on scores received following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessments. Marks were allocated for the outstanding experiences they provide to visitors across categories including Welcome, Best Told Story, Quality Food & Drink, Hidden Gem and Gold for overall winners.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said: “It’s fantastic to see three of Derbyshire’s brilliant attractions flying the flag for our outstanding visitor offer in these prestigious VisitEngland accolades.

“Derbyshire has so many unmissable attractions that deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike, and this is a timely reminder of the value, variety and sheer quality of the area’s tourism industry.”

Pamela Pearson, Visitor Experience Development Manager at Chatsworth added: “We are delighted to receive this award from VisitEngland, which recognises the hard work of our teams and our commitment to going the extra mile to deliver an excellent visitor experience. This year, we celebrated creativity with a free exhibition of monumental sculpture, ‘Radical Horizons: The Art of Burning Man at Chatsworth’, in the parkland. It’s wonderful to be one of the 97 award-winning attractions in England, congratulations to all the winners.”

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire and Chatsworth support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Burning Man Chatsworth

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Councils update on proposed devolution deal for East Midlands

Four councils across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are due to decide whether to formally agree that a public consultation about the devolution deal proposal for the East Midlands should go ahead.

Nottingham City Council is the first to discuss the deal at its Full Council meeting on Monday 31 October 2022, followed by Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council on 2 November 2022 and Nottinghamshire County Council on 4 November 2022.

The leaders of each of the 4 councils signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August 2022, after the government offered the region a package of new powers and funding worth £1.14 billion. Since August, the councils have been working on agreeing a more detailed proposal, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area.

These proposals will be discussed for formal agreement at key council meetings and if approved, a full consultation would follow – giving residents, businesses and other organisations the chance to have their say on the plans for a devolution deal, which would see a new regional mayor and new type of combined authority created for the area from 2024.

The deal would provide the region with a guaranteed income stream of £38 million per year over a 30-year period, and would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one of the biggest in the country.

The 4 leaders, Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, Ben Bradley MP, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council, and David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said in a joint statement:

“Formal agreement by each council to go ahead with a consultation is the next step towards securing a devolution deal. It is about us getting a better deal for our area and getting a fairer share for both counties and cities. It would mean more funding for our region, and the opportunity to have more meaningful decisions made here, near the people they affect, rather than in London, so they can be better tailored to local needs.

“We don’t want to miss out on the advantages that devolution would bring, which other parts of the country have already benefited from. We’ve seen how devolution has given other areas more influence, a bigger presence, and helped them make the most of their strengths.

“We want to make the most of every opportunity, and of every penny, that this deal would bring in. It could make a real difference to people’s lives. More and better jobs, more investment, economic growth, better transport, housing, skills training, an improved greener and more sustainable environment. These are the things we all want to see, as we work together for a better future for the East Midlands.

“We often haven’t had the same level of funding or influence as other areas, and this is a big chance to turn that around and help us live up to our potential as a region.”

 

If the devolution deal goes ahead, it would create the first of a new type of combined authority, which requires new legislation from central government. As well as the £1.14 billion, it would include an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land and control over a range of budgets, like the adult education budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

The devolution deal on the table is a level 3 deal, which offers the most local powers and funding. It would mean a new elected regional mayor, like those which already exist in other areas, who would represent both cities and counties. The role of the mayor would be to look at major issues affecting the whole region, give the area a bigger voice, and take advantage of local knowledge and expertise.

The deal means that a future mayor and combined authority could:

  • work towards Net Zero and cleaner air with new low carbon homes, retrofit existing houses with external wall insulation, promote the use of renewable energy, and protect and enhance green spaces, like areas for wildlife and green verges
  • build on the region’s existing knowledge and expertise in green technology and promote the growth of a future low carbon economy by investing in related skills training at colleges and other training facilities
  • set up and co-ordinate smart integrated ticketing and enhanced concessionary fares schemes
  • work with Homes England to build more affordable homes, by using new powers to buy land and housing (with district and borough council consent)
  • enhance the region’s economy by developing new commercial space to maximise opportunities
  • work with national government on initiatives to address homelessness, domestic abuse, community safety, social mobility and support for young people
  • take advantage of economies of scale by using combined and devolved budgets to deliver more value for taxpayers and more cost-efficient services

The 4 councils sent initial proposals to negotiate a combined devolution deal in March, after being named as pathfinder areas by the government in February and then being invited to apply for a devolution deal.

The councils have been working with the government to develop details of the deal, alongside discussions with district and borough councils, businesses and other stakeholders.

If the devolution deal is formally approved, the government would pass legislation bringing a new mayoral county combined authority for the east midlands into existence. The first election for a regional mayor for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham would be in May 2024.

The regional mayor would lead the new combined authority, which would also include representatives from local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

The devolution deal would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

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Ambassador for Japan celebrates Derbyshire links and local produce at Chatsworth Country Fair

The Ambassador of Japan to the UK met with Derbyshire producers, artisans and craftspeople whilst celebrating Japanese links to the area during a visit to Chatsworth Country Fair on Friday 2nd September.

Ambassador Hayashi and his wife Dr Hayashi were welcomed to the popular three-day annual event by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, on a visit to mark 24 years since the twinning of Derbyshire and Toyota City in Japan.

During his time at Chatsworth Country Fair, Ambassador Hayashi visited the largest-ever Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace which showcased quality Derbyshire-made items ranging from arts, crafts and homeware to fine food and drink.

Now in its third year, the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace had been doubled in size for 2022 to support the post-pandemic recovery of local businesses – giving over 50 independent Derbyshire traders the opportunity to promote and sell their products to thousands of visitors from across the UK.

Exhibitors included Phil Sproson Photography, The Wirksworth Pottery Company, Shivering Mountain Gin, Crooked Pickle Co and The Original Paperstarlights, who supplied handmade lantern decorations that adorned the roof of the Marketplace.

The Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace is part financially supported by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project, which aims to support the growth of small and medium sized visitor economy businesses in Derbyshire.

Chatsworth Country Fair is widely regarded as one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor events, celebrating traditional country pursuits together with showground entertainment, quality trade stands and fun for the whole family.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We were delighted to mark the third successful year of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace with our biggest celebration of Derbyshire producers to date, and we were thrilled that both the Ambassador of Japan to the UK and the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire could meet some of our traders.

“As the industry recovers from the pandemic, it was fantastic to see so many artisans and craftspeople embracing the chance to come together to showcase the high quality and innovative products made here in Derbyshire.

“As well as being very popular with visitors, thanks to support from Chatsworth and our European Regional Development Fund project the Marketplace also gave producers the chance to exhibit at a nationally-renowned, large-scale event – supporting their recovery, fuelling growth and helping them to reach new audiences.”

Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Toyota City has brought thousands of jobs and huge investment to the county over the last 24 years.

“Increasing trade and boosting tourism are key priorities for the partnership so it was a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to experience what Derbyshire tourism and producers have to offer. And with another milestone anniversary ahead for the partnership next year, we’ll be strengthening our friendship with Toyota City further with a programme of events to build on our existing relationship and focus in on those key priorities to benefit both our economies.”

The Duke of Devonshire said: “As the most enthusiastic advocates of Derbyshire, we were pleased to welcome the return of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace to Chatsworth Country Fair. The region is fortunate to have many quality producers, artists and craftspeople and it’s fantastic to share these with an even wider audience.

“It was also our great pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to this year’s Country Fair, to help celebrate Derbyshire’s links with Toyota City and to experience a taste of what Derbyshire has to offer.”

More than 75,000 people flocked to the Chatsworth Country Fair over the weekend (2-4 September).

Stunt horses and daredevil riders from Atkinson Action Horses thrilled the crowds by demonstrating skills that have seen them star in blockbuster films and television shows including Peaky Blinders, The Midwich Cuckoos and Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’; while the Bolddog Lings FMX Display Team drew gasps with their gravity-defying motorbike stunts.

Star chefs Mary Berry, James Martin and John Torode and a host of top-flight Derbyshire chefs drew hundreds to their demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, while Country Fair President Phil Spencer held court in the Grand Ring. The television personality introduced an action packed programme including show-stopping entertainment from favourites such as a Spitfire flyover, a parachute display, Pony Mounted Games, music from massed bands and much more.

As honorary Country Fair President, TV presenter Phil Spencer performed his official duties, such as opening the show, as well as greeting visitors, performers and exhibitors: “It’s a real privilege to have been asked by the Duke and Duchess to stand as President this year. I love to be involved in communities and pastimes that help make the great British countryside all that it is so I’ve had a terrific few days sharing the experience among so many thousands of smiling faces.”

Chatsworth House and Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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£1.14 billion devolution deal announced for the East Midlands

Local leaders in large parts of the East Midlands will be given new powers to improve transport, boost skills training and build more attractive and affordable homes through a historic, first of a kind county devolution deal signed with the government.

Levelling Up Secretary Greg Clark has signed the deal with Derbyshire and Derby, Nottinghamshire and Nottingham, which will see the area appoint a directly elected mayor, responsible for delivering local priorities, backed by a new £38 million per year investment fund, totalling £1.14 billion over 30 years.

The deal delivers on a commitment made in the government’s Levelling Up white paper published early this year to shift in powers and resources away from Whitehall to local communities.

In addition to the agreed funding being under local control rather than control from Whitehall, a new Mayoral Combined County Authority will be created, with control over the core adult education budget, to boost skills in the region, as well as the ability to increase control over transport infrastructure.

The new mayor will also be granted powers to drive regeneration, with compulsory purchase powers and the ability to designate Mayoral development areas and establish Mayoral Development Corporations to promote growth and build new homes.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Chesterfield’s residents and businesses deserve to have the same opportunities as those living in the towns and cities of the West Midlands, South Yorkshire, and other areas where Mayoral Combined Authorities already exist.

“They do not at present, which is why I welcome the announcement of a devolution deal for the East Midlands. Being able to access new sources of funding and take on new powers in relation to transport, housing, adult education, skills, and other matters can only be a good thing but these freedoms come at a price.

“I will be taking a close interest in how the East Midlands Mayoral Combined County Authority takes shape over the next 18 months and how we at Chesterfield Borough Council best influence this new body to achieve the very best outcomes for the people of Chesterfield.

“Given the current cost of living crisis, we must avoid power struggles and unnecessary bureaucracy, it is a time for local government at all levels to come together and put our communities first.”

Levelling up Secretary Greg Clark said: “The East Midlands is renowned for its economic dynamism and it has the potential to lead the Britain’s economy of the future. For a long time I have believed that the East Midlands should have the powers and devolved budgets that other areas in Britain have been benefitting from and I am thrilled to be able to bring that about in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

“I am impressed by the way councils in the region have come together to agree the first deal of this kind in the country, which will benefit residents in all of the great cities, towns and villages across the area of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

“Taking decisions out of Whitehall and putting them back in the hands of local people is foundational to levelling up and this deal does that.

“The new East Midlands Combined County Authority will also be granted control of over £17 million of additional funding for the building of new homes on brownfield land in 2024/25, subject to sufficient eligible projects for funding being identified, and a further £18 million has been agreed to support housing priorities and drive Net Zero Ambitions into the area.”

In a joint statement, Ben Bradley MP, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council, and David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “We welcome the £1.14 billion devolution deal from the government on offer for our region. It’s fantastic news.

“We want to make the most of every penny so this can be used to make a real difference to people’s lives.

“As Leaders, we have all fought for a fairer share for our cities and counties, and a bigger voice for our area, to give us the clout and the influence we deserve, and to help us live up to our full potential.

“This deal would help make that a reality, creating more and better jobs through greater investment in our area, with increased economic growth, better transport, housing, skills training, and an enhanced greener environment, as we move towards being carbon neutral. These are what we all want to see, and we will work together for the common good of the East Midlands.

“We haven’t always had the same level of funding or influence as other areas, which has held us back. This is a golden opportunity to change that and put the power to do so in our own hands.

“There is a lot still to be agreed, and this is the beginning of the journey, not the end. We’re determined to build on this deal over time, as other areas have done.”

This will be the first ever Mayoral Combined County Authority, a new model of devolution provided for in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. Implementation of this deal is dependent on Parliamentary approval of the Bill and necessary secondary legislation, as well as a public consultation.

This marks another important milestone in the government’s commitment to ensure that every area in England that wants a devolution deal can get one by 2030, as promised in the Levelling Up white paper published earlier this year.

New powers will help to improve local skills which will meet the specific needs of the local economy, helping to boost the region financially. In addition, there will be greater powers to drive regeneration creating more affordable housing for local people, making the area a more desirable place to live, work and visit.

Town Hall

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£47 million confirmed to improve bus services in Derbyshire

£47 million has been awarded to Derbyshire County Council to improve bus services over the next two and a half years.

Last year the Government published a new National Bus Strategy which set out a vision for future improvements across England and how bus services can recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The strategy placed a requirement on the County Council and bus companies in the area to work together to create a Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).

Working with bus operators, district and borough councils, bus passenger groups, disability groups, and other special interest organisations a consultation was held last year, which asked the public what they wanted to see to improve bus services. The results helped to inform the BSIP which was submitted to the Government last year and asked for money to improve services across the county.

Derbyshire’s success in gaining £47 million provides the money which will help pay for:

  • More frequent buses and extended hours for vital services
  • Improved bus punctuality and reliability
  • Better value bus fares, especially for young people and those looking for work
  • Expansion of the ‘tap on and tap off’ system for paying for tickets
  • New transport hubs with Real Time Information to help connect bus services to other bus and train services
  • More demand-responsive services for rural and semi-rural areas
  • A new website and app which will cover all services to make planning a journey much easier

It is expected that work will start on delivering these improvements from October 2022.

Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Kewal Singh Athwal, said: “To have the money finally confirmed is great news for everyone in the county.

“Bus services will become so much more attractive to more people and will mean less traffic on our roads. This will make a positive contribution to our approach to tackling climate change.

“We will build on the positive work to date and continue to work in partnership with all the bus companies on a wide range of projects to improve bus travel.”

A partnership board, the BSIP Enhanced Partnership Board, has been set up to deliver the actions in the BSIP. It is chaired by Professor Margaret Bell, with Jeff Counsell, Managing Director of Trentbarton the vice chair.

Professor Margaret Bell CBE said: “This funding is the outcome of a lot of hard work and commitment of council officers and public transport operators who will continue to work together to make public transport a realistic alternative to the use of private cars in the future delivering substantial benefits to health.”

Jeff Counsell added: “The allocation of this funding just goes to show what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together for a common cause. I know that we, and all bus operators, are looking forward to delivering the BSIP outcomes in continued partnership with the county.”

Find out more about Chesterfield’s excellent transport networks and connectivity at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/getting-here/

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North Derbyshire in the running to recieve several new rail stations

A proposal to reopen existing rail lines to passengers bringing the potential to build up to four new stations in North Derbyshire are steaming ahead with project leaders working with Network Rail to get the plans moving.

Derbyshire County Council has confirmed it is working with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Network Rail to develop the business case to reopen the current, freight-only Barrow Hill line between Chesterfield and Sheffield to passengers.

If the outline project gets the green light at the next stage, it will signal the start of work to reintroduce passenger trains on the line and build up to 4 new stations in Derbyshire at Whittington, Staveley Barrow Hill, Eckington / Renishaw, and Killamarsh.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment, Councillor Carolyn Renwick, said: “This is all part of the Levelling Up agenda and we’re pleased that Government has recognised the need to reintroduce passenger services along these two routes.

“Significant new employment and housing development is already planned along the Barrow Hill Line route with long-overdue investment in this part of Derbyshire kick-started by the Staveley Town Deal.

“Re-opening both lines would build on this momentum, making it easier for people to travel to work, education, and healthcare, cutting congestion, improving air quality, and promoting greener travel as part of our commitment to cut carbon emissions to help tackle climate change.”

It is anticipated that the next stage of work by Network Rail should take approximately 4 months to complete.

The £25 million Staveley Town Deal offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to improve the quality of life for residents, create new employment opportunities with higher level skills, ensure it is a place where everyone can be proud to live and guarantee that the town and its residents have a bright future ahead – supporting Staveley as a place to start, stay and grow.

Meanwhile, Chesterfield Borough Council’s plans for development around Chesterfield station are well advanced, as set out in the recently approved Station Masterplan. The ambitious plans are set to transform the area between the town centre and Chesterfield Train Station – creating a vibrant gateway to North Derbyshire and setting out potential sites to create around 850 new jobs. Find out more here.

 

Chesterfield Railway Station at Night

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Ambitious civic plans for Derbyshire set out by University

A Civic University Agreement, developed by the University of Derby, has been launched in partnership with 15 other organisations from across the city and county.

The Agreement, created following extensive consultation, clearly articulates the long-term civic ambitions of the University, and how it intends to work with these 15 signatories to drive forward the local recovery and regeneration of Derby and Derbyshire, helping to channel aspirations, support local communities, share knowledge and enhance the area’s overall offer and vibrancy.

It focuses on five core goals, designed to make a positive impact on the people, communities, organisations and businesses within Derby and Derbyshire:

  • Secure our future
  • Drive ambition and positive change
  • Make a positive environmental impact
  • Support health and wellbeing
  • Invest in culture as a driver for change

During the event, each goal was brought to life through a civic showcase, highlighting the breadth of projects and initiatives underway. These included presentations on:

  • Apprenticeships and skills – the positive impact University of Derby civil engineering apprentices are having on Greenhatch group, a Geospatial surveys firm
  • Raising aspirations – how a Year 12 student from the Bemrose School is now considering applying to Oxbridge thanks to her involvement in the Derby Scholars Programme, a partnership between the University of Derby, Corpus Christi College at the University of Oxford and Murray Edwards College at the University of Cambridge
  • Green travel – DerbyGo, a green mobility app being developed as part of a partnership between the University, Derby City Council and Kinto, Toyota’s mobility brand
  • ‘SHEDding light on long-Covid’ – a collaboration between scientific and artistic researchers at the University that will see the University’s S.H.E.D tour the country to explore the challenges affecting people suffering from long-Covid
  • Retro Feva 80’s – a DerbyCAN commissioned music jukebox show inspired by Top of the Pop’s 80’s featuring a community cast of local performers.

Commenting on its launch, Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “The University of Derby has always been civic – educating, innovating, creating, making, and inspiring, but this is the first time we have explicitly set out our civic intentions and articulated the overall impact made by the University and its staff and students.

“Through our Civic University Agreement, we are making a clear statement of intent as to how we will approach our civic role moving forward. However, the ambitions we have set out need support from others if we are to achieve them and I am overwhelmed by the positive response from the organisations we approached to be signatories and who will be alongside us on this important journey.”

The development of Civic University Agreements was a key recommendation in a report published in 2019 by the Civic University Commission set up by the UPP Foundation and chaired by the former Head of the Civil Service, Lord Kerslake.

The report sets out how universities like Derby have the capability, opportunity and responsibility to support the places where they are based to solve some of their most pressing and major problems. These issues range from helping local businesses adapt to technological change, to boosting the health of local people, improving education for school pupils and adult learners, and training and developing new civic leaders in every field from politics to the arts.

The report aims to help universities build on the excellent work that many of them are already carrying out in these areas, working alongside councils, employers, cultural institutions, schools and further education colleges.

The signatories of the Civic University Agreement are:

University of Derby, Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, East Midlands Chamber,  Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire Voluntary Action, Derbyshire County Council, DHU Healthcare, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust,  Derby City Council,  Derby Cathedral,  Derby’s Cultural Education Partnership, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner and High Peak Borough Council.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “This Civic University Agreement demonstrates the leading role in transforming place, stimulating economic growth and providing skills for the future that the University of Derby will take to contribute to the long-term economic prosperity aspirations that exist in Derby and Derbyshire.

“This agreement and its resulting future activities, initiatives and programmes will have a significant positive impact on society by supporting the aspirations of all our local communities in the city and the county and retain our future business leaders right here.”

Will Morlidge, Chief Executive of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The Civic University Agreement is a clear sign that partners remain committed to improving social mobility and driving forward innovation and the economic prosperity of our city and county. We are proud members of the Derby Opportunity Area Board, a key part of the civic agenda, and the leadership shown by Professor Kathryn Mitchell and the support from the University of Derby team has been fundamental to improving the life-chances of many young people within our communities.”

Jacqui Willis, Chief Executive of Derbyshire Voluntary Action, said: “Amplifying the voices of communities has never been so important. The opportunities that Community Chesterfield, Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s partnership with the University of Derby, has created for students to enhance their studies has been incredible and impactful. We are thrilled and excited to support the Civic University Agreement”

University of Derby, D2N2 LEP, East Midlands Chamber, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire Voluntary Action support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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