The plan, which sets out a clear change in direction, was approved earlier this year and has now been launched.
The simpler, easy-to-understand plan outlines our vision and the outcomes we seek to achieve, with a focus on prioritising core statutory services, cutting bureaucracy and maximising efficiency.
“We’re committed to reforming services for Derbyshire and I’m proud to launch our new Council Plan which is focused, pragmatic and firmly rooted in the priorities of Derbyshire residents.
“We listened carefully to residents’ views when putting the new plan together as part of a full review, identifying what was not working, what the people of Derbyshire were telling us, and making deliberate and carefully thought-out choices about what this council should and should not be doing.
“This new plan is not a continuation of what has gone before, it’s a wholesale reset, and at its core it is about cutting bureaucracy, focusing on core statutory responsibilities and delivering value for money while continuing to provide quality services to those who need them.”
“The backdrop to the plan is rising demand and rising costs, which have helped us to focus on what really matters and ensure we are disciplined in how we use public money, ensuring every pound is spent where it’s needed and there is no waste or funding of services that should be the responsibility of national government.
“We’re focusing on delivery of services that people rely on with a particular emphasis on priority areas including improving Derbyshire’s roads and working with partners to improve services for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
“With SEND, we are prioritising timely assessments, increasing school places, expanding support options with a stronger emphasis on early intervention and prevention. Getting this right is better for children, families and the long-term sustainability of services.
“We are listening to what people are telling us about roads, taking a more practical approach to Derbyshire’s infrastructure and environment, with our plan highlighting investment in roads, highway drainage, and reducing waste to landfill.”
“There has been a lot of talk about our approach to net zero. Our plan shows our support for energy security and clean, affordable energy where it makes sense without ideological targets that drive up costs for residents and businesses.
“And, we will work hard to support Derbyshire businesses of all sizes, recognising the vital role they play in our local economy, ensuring that our policies, including those relating to equality and energy are practical, proportionate and supportive of business growth. Our aim is to help businesses thrive, not place additional financial or administrative pressures on them.
“Together with residents and local partners, we will build a secure and prosperous future for Derbyshire - grounded in common sense, fairness, and local control.”
The plan is effective from April 2026 and covers the period through to 2029. If local government reorganisation goes ahead as planned, it is expected that the new unitary council or councils for Derby and Derbyshire will have new council plans when they are formed on 1 April 2028. These will replace the existing council plans of all Derby and Derbyshire local authorities at that time.