Derbyshire County Council to consider refreshed Council Plan 

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet is set to consider a refreshed Council Plan, outlining what the authority describes as a more streamlined and pragmatic approach to delivering local services. 

The revised plan, due to be discussed on 29th January, sets out the council’s vision and priorities for the coming years, with an emphasis on focusing on core statutory services, reducing bureaucracy and improving efficiency across the organisation. 

According to the council, the updated plan has been simplified to make it easier for residents to understand the outcomes it aims to achieve, while also reflecting the financial and operational challenges facing local government. 

Councillor Alan Graves, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said the refresh reflects a renewed commitment to reforming services. 

“We’ve taken the opportunity to look closely at what the council does to make sure it reflects our priorities and values,” he said. “We’re building on what works well, while bringing in new ideas where change is needed. 

“This revised plan sets out a clear direction for Derbyshire County Council and the difference we want to make for local people. It reflects our ambition to make Derbyshire a place where people can thrive, communities are strong, and businesses prosper.” 

Key priorities in the draft plan include improving the speed and efficiency of road repairs and reducing potholes, managing the council’s finances to achieve budget savings, and transforming the authority into a more streamlined organisation. Other priorities include boosting the local economy in partnership with the East Midlands Combined County Authority, improving services for children with special educational needs and disabilities, and giving children the best start in life through early support for families. 

The plan also highlights a commitment to working with partners to improve adult care services while promoting independence, tackling major health risks such as smoking and poor diet, and protecting Derbyshire’s natural environment and heritage. 

The council says the plan takes account of rising costs, increasing demand for services and ongoing funding pressures, and is underpinned by a focus on making best use of available resources and concentrating on statutory responsibilities. 

Councillor Graves added that the council’s focus would remain firmly on local priorities. 

“Our focus is on Derbyshire – protecting local interests and the countryside, supporting our economy, strengthening communities and working efficiently to deliver the services that matter most to people” he said. 

He added that particular attention would be given to improving the condition of roads, enhancing SEND services, supporting carers, protecting vulnerable residents, and investing in prevention and early intervention to reduce long-term demand on services. 

If approved by Cabinet, the draft Council Plan will be referred to Full Council for final approval on 11th February 2026. Subject to approval, it would take effect from April 2026 and run until 2029. 

However, the council noted that if planned local government reorganisation goes ahead, any new unitary authority or authorities for Derby and Derbyshire would adopt their own Council Plans from April 2028, replacing the existing plans at that point.