A CHESTERFIELD shopping centre remained closed today as the clean-up continues after a supermarket blaze.
Electrical and safety checks are being carried out at The Pavements Shopping Centre following Wednesday's fire at Somerfield supermarket.
Chesterfield Borough Council officials hope part of the shopping centre will re-open tomorrow. The fire was contained in the Somerfield and Massarella units of The Pavements, but major damage was caused to both properties and they are expected to remain closed for several months for repairs.
All buses which normally depart from the stops on Beetwell Street will use other areas including Stephenson's Place, Packers Row and the lower section of Park Road.
The bridge link between the Beetwell Street multi-storey car park and the shopping centre will remain closed.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:53:49
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Council charges for sand bag help
FURIOUS residents have accused the borough council of trying to cash in on people's desperation during the floods.
Frantic home and business owners contacted the council to ask for help as the water continued to rise on Monday night only to be told that five sand bags would cost them almost £50.
At the height of the storm some people were told by Amber Valley Borough Council to take their pillow cases to the nearest builder's yard and fill them with sand themselves.
Graham Ward, the sub-postmaster at Langley Mill Post Office, said: "We rang the council at 4pm to get some help because the River Erewash looked like it was going to burst its banks. They told us it would be £40 plus £7 VAT for five sand bags which works out at £9.40 a bag.
"They said our only other alternative was to take pillow cases to a builders yard and fill them ourselves.
"We're only 350 metres away from the Erewash and the council says we're not close enough to go on the emergency list. If we're not close enough I do not know what you have to do to get on the list.
"It's outrageous. The amount we pay in council tax and business rates and they want £9.40 for a bag of sand. It's disgusting."
A woman who did not wish to be named said her elderly mother was also told she'd need to pay for somebody to come out and help when the brook overflowed.
The lady said: "I was so incensed. There is no provision of sand bags and it was up to neighbours to lift and unblock drains to try and get rid of the water.
"A lot of pensioners live in that area and everybody was worried sick. They were told somebody would come out but they'd have to pay."
In a statement a spokesman for Amber Valley Borough Council said: "The council retains a stock of sandbags in order to enable a rapid response to areas known to be at a high risk of flooding in the event of extreme weather conditions. These areas are notified to the Council primarily by the Environment Agency.
"In these identified high-risk areas, sandbags are available free of charge once a flood alert has been issued.
"In addition to these high risk areas the council offers a service whereby sandbags can be purchased and delivered during severe weather conditions to residents and businesses at a cost starting at £40 plus VAT.
"During periods of severe weather conditions we receive many requests for sandbags. Through charging for sandbags where requests are received which are not in identified flood areas, the council is able to safeguard its stock to enable the greatest number of properties to be protected.
"On Monday operatives worked throughout the day and until late in the night distributing sandbags to protect properties. Emergency supplies of sand had to be sought since the extent of the flooding far exceeded that normally experienced.
"A total of 300 sand bags were distributed on Sunday evening and a further 850 on Monday. Over 20 tonnes of sand was used and the council has replenished its stocks since further rainfall is forecast for later in the week."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:50:38
Frantic home and business owners contacted the council to ask for help as the water continued to rise on Monday night only to be told that five sand bags would cost them almost £50.
At the height of the storm some people were told by Amber Valley Borough Council to take their pillow cases to the nearest builder's yard and fill them with sand themselves.
Graham Ward, the sub-postmaster at Langley Mill Post Office, said: "We rang the council at 4pm to get some help because the River Erewash looked like it was going to burst its banks. They told us it would be £40 plus £7 VAT for five sand bags which works out at £9.40 a bag.
"They said our only other alternative was to take pillow cases to a builders yard and fill them ourselves.
"We're only 350 metres away from the Erewash and the council says we're not close enough to go on the emergency list. If we're not close enough I do not know what you have to do to get on the list.
"It's outrageous. The amount we pay in council tax and business rates and they want £9.40 for a bag of sand. It's disgusting."
A woman who did not wish to be named said her elderly mother was also told she'd need to pay for somebody to come out and help when the brook overflowed.
The lady said: "I was so incensed. There is no provision of sand bags and it was up to neighbours to lift and unblock drains to try and get rid of the water.
"A lot of pensioners live in that area and everybody was worried sick. They were told somebody would come out but they'd have to pay."
In a statement a spokesman for Amber Valley Borough Council said: "The council retains a stock of sandbags in order to enable a rapid response to areas known to be at a high risk of flooding in the event of extreme weather conditions. These areas are notified to the Council primarily by the Environment Agency.
"In these identified high-risk areas, sandbags are available free of charge once a flood alert has been issued.
"In addition to these high risk areas the council offers a service whereby sandbags can be purchased and delivered during severe weather conditions to residents and businesses at a cost starting at £40 plus VAT.
"During periods of severe weather conditions we receive many requests for sandbags. Through charging for sandbags where requests are received which are not in identified flood areas, the council is able to safeguard its stock to enable the greatest number of properties to be protected.
"On Monday operatives worked throughout the day and until late in the night distributing sandbags to protect properties. Emergency supplies of sand had to be sought since the extent of the flooding far exceeded that normally experienced.
"A total of 300 sand bags were distributed on Sunday evening and a further 850 on Monday. Over 20 tonnes of sand was used and the council has replenished its stocks since further rainfall is forecast for later in the week."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:50:38
Mountain Rescue Teams called in
WORKERS trapped by flash foods in Sheffield received help from an unlikely source when members of two High Peak mountain rescue teams were called to help.
Edale Mountain Rescue Team was called at 9pm on Monday night to assist South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service with workers who had been trapped inside offices and factories.
The team, joined by colleagues from Glossop, waded and then briefly swam through the filthy floodwater, which was about five or six feet deep, to reach one man trapped in his home.
An inflatable boat was used to transport a ladder to the scene and the man, who was on a second floor, was rescued unharmed and taken back to dry land.
Afterwards the teams, with help from a local man with a modified Land Rover, assisted people in a Vauxhall dealership who were stranded until 1am.
Earlier in the evening the Edale team transported an eight-and-a half month pregnant woman to her home after she became stranded in floodwaters in Chesterfield.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:46:02
Edale Mountain Rescue Team was called at 9pm on Monday night to assist South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service with workers who had been trapped inside offices and factories.
The team, joined by colleagues from Glossop, waded and then briefly swam through the filthy floodwater, which was about five or six feet deep, to reach one man trapped in his home.
An inflatable boat was used to transport a ladder to the scene and the man, who was on a second floor, was rescued unharmed and taken back to dry land.
Afterwards the teams, with help from a local man with a modified Land Rover, assisted people in a Vauxhall dealership who were stranded until 1am.
Earlier in the evening the Edale team transported an eight-and-a half month pregnant woman to her home after she became stranded in floodwaters in Chesterfield.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:46:02
Guidebook launched for Mills
A GUIDEBOOK charting all there is to see and do in the Derwent Valley Mills has been produced for the first time.
The A5-sized glossy souvenir booklet is packed with colour photographs, information about the mills and communities of the World Heritage Site.
It also gives visitors guidance in planning their day out.
Cllr Joyce Sanders, who chairs the partnership managing the site, said: "This is a very useful addition to the publications already produced about the Derwent Valley Mills.
"It's very reader-friendly, and will direct people to all the interesting locations we have to offer.
"I'm sure it will prove as interesting to local people as it will to visitors from further afield."
The guidebook was officially launched by the Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire John Bather.
It is now available at each of the mill sites, libraries and tourist information centres within the World Heritage Site, priced at £4.99.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:41:50
The A5-sized glossy souvenir booklet is packed with colour photographs, information about the mills and communities of the World Heritage Site.
It also gives visitors guidance in planning their day out.
Cllr Joyce Sanders, who chairs the partnership managing the site, said: "This is a very useful addition to the publications already produced about the Derwent Valley Mills.
"It's very reader-friendly, and will direct people to all the interesting locations we have to offer.
"I'm sure it will prove as interesting to local people as it will to visitors from further afield."
The guidebook was officially launched by the Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire John Bather.
It is now available at each of the mill sites, libraries and tourist information centres within the World Heritage Site, priced at £4.99.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:41:50
Rams sign Earnshaw
Derby County have broken their transfer record by signing Norwich City striker Robert Earnshaw for a fee of £3.5m.
The 26-year-old Welsh international has agreed a three-year deal and becomes the club's first signing since returning to the Premiership.
The deal to bring in Earnshaw beats Derby's previous record of £3m - the fee that snared Seth Johnson, Craig Burley, Branko Strupar and Giorgi Kinkladze.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:38:57
The 26-year-old Welsh international has agreed a three-year deal and becomes the club's first signing since returning to the Premiership.
The deal to bring in Earnshaw beats Derby's previous record of £3m - the fee that snared Seth Johnson, Craig Burley, Branko Strupar and Giorgi Kinkladze.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:38:57
Shrovetide statue for Ashbourne
A Statue representing the annual Shrovetide Football game in Ashbourne is to be installed in the town.
The traditional game takes place annually on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday between the Up'ards - people born on the north side of the River Henmore - and the Down'ards - those born on the south side.
The goalposts are three miles apart with the streets of Ashbourne acting as the pitch.
The specially commissioned monument features four figures locked in "the hug" - the traditional name given to a scrum of players.
Sculptor Neil Hawksworth has created the 9ft statue which, subject to planning permission, will be installed at the junction of Leek Road and Mayfield Road.
The monument is a gift to the town from Cedar House Investments, the property development company headed by Peter Gadsby.
Mr Gadsby, who is originally from Ashbourne, scored a goal during the game in 1965 and turned up the ball, marking the start of the match, in 1996.
He said: "Like most people from Ashbourne, I take great pride in Shrovetide Football and the fact that it is one of the very few traditional events entitled to claim Royal assent.
"We want to make Ashbourne a 'brown-sign' town by creating a monument which symbolises the importance of Royal Shrovetide Football. By providing picnic areas and parking around it, we hope that people who might otherwise have simply driven past the town will stop and appreciate what makes it unique."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:35:55
The traditional game takes place annually on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday between the Up'ards - people born on the north side of the River Henmore - and the Down'ards - those born on the south side.
The goalposts are three miles apart with the streets of Ashbourne acting as the pitch.
The specially commissioned monument features four figures locked in "the hug" - the traditional name given to a scrum of players.
Sculptor Neil Hawksworth has created the 9ft statue which, subject to planning permission, will be installed at the junction of Leek Road and Mayfield Road.
The monument is a gift to the town from Cedar House Investments, the property development company headed by Peter Gadsby.
Mr Gadsby, who is originally from Ashbourne, scored a goal during the game in 1965 and turned up the ball, marking the start of the match, in 1996.
He said: "Like most people from Ashbourne, I take great pride in Shrovetide Football and the fact that it is one of the very few traditional events entitled to claim Royal assent.
"We want to make Ashbourne a 'brown-sign' town by creating a monument which symbolises the importance of Royal Shrovetide Football. By providing picnic areas and parking around it, we hope that people who might otherwise have simply driven past the town will stop and appreciate what makes it unique."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:35:55
French choir sing in Derby
A French choir is to visit Derby for the first time.
Rhapsodra Choeur de Jeuns will perform popular French songs at St Matthew's Church in Darley Abbey on Saturday.
They will be joined by Derby choir Tapestry at the 7.30pm concert.
Tickets are available from Foulds Music, in Iron Gate, Derby. Proceeds go to the Friends of the Nightingale Macmillan Unit in London Road, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:31:10
Rhapsodra Choeur de Jeuns will perform popular French songs at St Matthew's Church in Darley Abbey on Saturday.
They will be joined by Derby choir Tapestry at the 7.30pm concert.
Tickets are available from Foulds Music, in Iron Gate, Derby. Proceeds go to the Friends of the Nightingale Macmillan Unit in London Road, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:31:10
Beckett gets the bullet
Labour stalwart and Derby South MP Margaret Beckett lost her job as Foreign Secretary in Gordon Brown's Cabinet reshuffle yesterday.
She was the first woman to lead the Labour Party and the first female Foreign Secretary.
But today, Derby South MP Margaret Beckett was beginning life outside the Cabinet for the first time since Labour returned to power in 1997.
She was greatly honoured to have been appointed Foreign Secretary and was known to have been keen to stay in the post, but Gordon Brown's first Cabinet left only one minister in the same job as he had occupied under Tony Blair - Defence Secretary Des Browne (a Scotsman I believe).
Departing the Cabinet is not only an emotional move, it will also hit Mrs Beckett in the pocket.
If she returns to the backbenches, her salary will be slashed by more than half, losing her £76,400 minister's allowance, which had allowed her to claim a total of £136,677 a year. She will, however, be entitled to three months' severance pay.
Mrs Beckett has been Labour's longest-serving Government minister, a feature of every administration since 1976.
She was deputy leader under John Smith, briefly becoming leader after his death in 1994, before Tony Blair beat her in the subsequent leadership election.
She was one of only five MPs to sit in the Cabinet throughout Mr Blair's decade in power. Since 1997, Mrs Beckett has been Trade and Industry Secretary, Leader of the House and Environment Secretary before winning one of the great offices of state last year.
After becoming Foreign Secretary, Mrs Beckett was immediately thrust into the middle of a world crisis as Israel and Lebanon went to war. She was criticised over the Government's failure to call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, with a host of Labour backbenchers demanding a recall of Parliament to debate the crisis.
Since then, she has had to deal with the ongoing conflict in Iraq. What an impact she made-I can not think of anything she did.
The other big crisis she faced was in March, when 15 sailors and marines were captured by the Iranians. Her cool and calm persona was suited to the drama, which ended with the safe return of the crew. In other words she had not a clue what to do and subsequently Iran made great political capital out of the situation.
According to one of her close colleagues, officials in the department rated her highly. Deputy Leader of the Commons Paddy Tipping said: "She's been a very competent Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.
"I feel disappointed for her. I know she's a doughty fighter. She won't give up for the Labour Party or for Derby.
"She's been through some pretty tricky situations and, when she inherited the job, she was surprised.
"But, very quickly, she got into the job and I know many of the officials there rate her very highly and are sad to see her go."
He said that Mrs Beckett had been a "tremendous servant" to the Labour Party and the Government but that her departure from the Cabinet marked "a break with the past". Replacing Mrs Beckett, 64, is David Miliband, who, at 41, offers a fresh face. Seems like a complete tosser whose ideas on climate control are certifiable.
For Mrs Beckett, meanwhile, it is a return to the unfamiliar territory of the backbenches.
A spokesman for the regional Labour Party said that she was a "towering politician" and that few people were "in the same league" as her in contributions to making Labour electable.
He described her as a "rock-solid safe pair of hands" who is immensely loyal to the party.
But there are no signs of her leaving Parliament - she has always pledged to stand again at the next election and her spokeswoman said recently that she had no intention of standing down.
Mrs Beckett said that she would have liked to have more time in the post of Foreign Secretary.
She said: "I'd got to the stage where I'd made many links and networks. I could see how much more I could do in the coming year."
Mrs Beckett said that she would take time to think about her future role.
"I might have a bit of a breathing space now," she said. "I've been on the front bench, apart from about six months, for my entire career.
"I've done the things that other people have wanted me to do - now I want to think about what I'd like to do."
She said that she would fight to remain in her seat in Derby South in the next General Election, adding: "I've got no intention of leaving parliament, not voluntarily anyway.
"There are places I can make a contribution. I need to spend some time thinking about what I think I should do."
A fresh box of Kleenex for Margaret please!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:22:00
She was the first woman to lead the Labour Party and the first female Foreign Secretary.
But today, Derby South MP Margaret Beckett was beginning life outside the Cabinet for the first time since Labour returned to power in 1997.
She was greatly honoured to have been appointed Foreign Secretary and was known to have been keen to stay in the post, but Gordon Brown's first Cabinet left only one minister in the same job as he had occupied under Tony Blair - Defence Secretary Des Browne (a Scotsman I believe).
Departing the Cabinet is not only an emotional move, it will also hit Mrs Beckett in the pocket.
If she returns to the backbenches, her salary will be slashed by more than half, losing her £76,400 minister's allowance, which had allowed her to claim a total of £136,677 a year. She will, however, be entitled to three months' severance pay.
Mrs Beckett has been Labour's longest-serving Government minister, a feature of every administration since 1976.
She was deputy leader under John Smith, briefly becoming leader after his death in 1994, before Tony Blair beat her in the subsequent leadership election.
She was one of only five MPs to sit in the Cabinet throughout Mr Blair's decade in power. Since 1997, Mrs Beckett has been Trade and Industry Secretary, Leader of the House and Environment Secretary before winning one of the great offices of state last year.
After becoming Foreign Secretary, Mrs Beckett was immediately thrust into the middle of a world crisis as Israel and Lebanon went to war. She was criticised over the Government's failure to call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, with a host of Labour backbenchers demanding a recall of Parliament to debate the crisis.
Since then, she has had to deal with the ongoing conflict in Iraq. What an impact she made-I can not think of anything she did.
The other big crisis she faced was in March, when 15 sailors and marines were captured by the Iranians. Her cool and calm persona was suited to the drama, which ended with the safe return of the crew. In other words she had not a clue what to do and subsequently Iran made great political capital out of the situation.
According to one of her close colleagues, officials in the department rated her highly. Deputy Leader of the Commons Paddy Tipping said: "She's been a very competent Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.
"I feel disappointed for her. I know she's a doughty fighter. She won't give up for the Labour Party or for Derby.
"She's been through some pretty tricky situations and, when she inherited the job, she was surprised.
"But, very quickly, she got into the job and I know many of the officials there rate her very highly and are sad to see her go."
He said that Mrs Beckett had been a "tremendous servant" to the Labour Party and the Government but that her departure from the Cabinet marked "a break with the past". Replacing Mrs Beckett, 64, is David Miliband, who, at 41, offers a fresh face. Seems like a complete tosser whose ideas on climate control are certifiable.
For Mrs Beckett, meanwhile, it is a return to the unfamiliar territory of the backbenches.
A spokesman for the regional Labour Party said that she was a "towering politician" and that few people were "in the same league" as her in contributions to making Labour electable.
He described her as a "rock-solid safe pair of hands" who is immensely loyal to the party.
But there are no signs of her leaving Parliament - she has always pledged to stand again at the next election and her spokeswoman said recently that she had no intention of standing down.
Mrs Beckett said that she would have liked to have more time in the post of Foreign Secretary.
She said: "I'd got to the stage where I'd made many links and networks. I could see how much more I could do in the coming year."
Mrs Beckett said that she would take time to think about her future role.
"I might have a bit of a breathing space now," she said. "I've been on the front bench, apart from about six months, for my entire career.
"I've done the things that other people have wanted me to do - now I want to think about what I'd like to do."
She said that she would fight to remain in her seat in Derby South in the next General Election, adding: "I've got no intention of leaving parliament, not voluntarily anyway.
"There are places I can make a contribution. I need to spend some time thinking about what I think I should do."
A fresh box of Kleenex for Margaret please!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:22:00
Davis slams Labour on open prisons
Shadow Home Secretary David Davis has launched a scathing attack on the Government after three more prisoners absconded from Sudbury Open Prison.
As Jack Straw took up the reins at the Ministry of Justice, Mr Davis urged him to stop sending violent criminals to open prisons.
The plea comes after the news that three convicts absconded from the prison this week, bringing the total of inmates to have absconded from Sudbury this month to 11.
The Conservatives have been critical of the Government since a leaked memo last year.
This revealed former Home Secretary John Reid was prepared to take the risk of more violent criminals escaping from prison as a result of switching inmates from secure to open accommodation. Mr Davis said: "John Reid is on the record as accepting the inevitability of more escapes when he downgraded the criteria for open prisons.
"The Government has split responsibility for tackling this serial problem between the Home Office and Ministry of Justice.
"The country is not interested in bureaucratic shuffling or political appointments - they want to know who will take responsibility for tracking down these criminal fugitives.
"With 11 on the run in the last month alone, will Jack Straw now reverse John Reid's reckless decision?"
The three who went on the run from Sudbury this week are burglar Ian Norton and thieves Steven Bower and Aaron Elsmore, who left the prison on Monday. Norton, 34, was sentenced in April 2005, at Lincoln Crown Court, to three years in prison. His last known address was in Louth, Lincolnshire.
Bower, 24, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court in July, 2005, to four-and-a-half-years for robbery. His last known address was in Darnall, Sheffield.
Elsmore, 29, was sentenced at Melton, Belvoir and Rutland Magistrates' Court this March, to one year and 30 days, for theft from a store.
In the five months up until this month, eight prisoners had absconded from Sudbury. That compares to 72 who escaped during the 12 months of 2006.
As previously reported, 665 inmates absconded from Sudbury between 1997-8 and 2005-6. In an interview, former Home Secretary Mr Reid defended open prisons.
He said: "It's important to recognise why serious offenders like murderers sometimes end up in an open prisons.
"That is because to move them at the end of their sentence straight from a completely controlled prison into a completely open community runs far greater risk of them committing another murder than if they're gradually introduced to a more free environment through an open prison." Bullshit.
Another government shambles, but hey it doesn't matter because they are letting out 1.000's of prisoners anyway to beat the over crowding problem. Anyone thought of building new prisons.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:14:13
As Jack Straw took up the reins at the Ministry of Justice, Mr Davis urged him to stop sending violent criminals to open prisons.
The plea comes after the news that three convicts absconded from the prison this week, bringing the total of inmates to have absconded from Sudbury this month to 11.
The Conservatives have been critical of the Government since a leaked memo last year.
This revealed former Home Secretary John Reid was prepared to take the risk of more violent criminals escaping from prison as a result of switching inmates from secure to open accommodation. Mr Davis said: "John Reid is on the record as accepting the inevitability of more escapes when he downgraded the criteria for open prisons.
"The Government has split responsibility for tackling this serial problem between the Home Office and Ministry of Justice.
"The country is not interested in bureaucratic shuffling or political appointments - they want to know who will take responsibility for tracking down these criminal fugitives.
"With 11 on the run in the last month alone, will Jack Straw now reverse John Reid's reckless decision?"
The three who went on the run from Sudbury this week are burglar Ian Norton and thieves Steven Bower and Aaron Elsmore, who left the prison on Monday. Norton, 34, was sentenced in April 2005, at Lincoln Crown Court, to three years in prison. His last known address was in Louth, Lincolnshire.
Bower, 24, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court in July, 2005, to four-and-a-half-years for robbery. His last known address was in Darnall, Sheffield.
Elsmore, 29, was sentenced at Melton, Belvoir and Rutland Magistrates' Court this March, to one year and 30 days, for theft from a store.
In the five months up until this month, eight prisoners had absconded from Sudbury. That compares to 72 who escaped during the 12 months of 2006.
As previously reported, 665 inmates absconded from Sudbury between 1997-8 and 2005-6. In an interview, former Home Secretary Mr Reid defended open prisons.
He said: "It's important to recognise why serious offenders like murderers sometimes end up in an open prisons.
"That is because to move them at the end of their sentence straight from a completely controlled prison into a completely open community runs far greater risk of them committing another murder than if they're gradually introduced to a more free environment through an open prison." Bullshit.
Another government shambles, but hey it doesn't matter because they are letting out 1.000's of prisoners anyway to beat the over crowding problem. Anyone thought of building new prisons.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:14:13
When will flood defences get the go ahead
Flood defences costing £3m could be built to protect homes near the River Trent and the Erewash Canal.
Hundreds of houses in Long Eaton and Sawley would benefit from the Environment Agency project, which is part of a £51m scheme stretching through Nottingham.
Erewash Borough Council planners have backed the project but permission from Broxtowe Borough Council is still needed before building work can begin.
The Erewash council decision came after rivers burst their banks and caused chaos throughout Derbyshire on Tuesday.
James Mallender, project manager for the Environment Agency, said that building only part of the scheme would make the potential for flooding worse.
He said: "If we only build the defences we have permission for in Erewash, it would cause water levels to rise further down the Trent - that's why we need to wait for planning permission from Broxtowe Borough Council.
"In fact, water would flood back to Long Eaton, which would make the new defences redundant."
If planning permission is granted, construction of the defences will begin in April next year.
They would include a 200-metre-long and two-metre-high concrete wall next to Harrington Bridge, on the River Trent.
This would protect hundreds of houses to the south of Sawley and businesses such as the Harrington Arms and White House restaurant.
Ashley Matthews, owner of the White House, said that he was pleased to hear that new flood defences could be brought in.
He said: "Although the restaurant didn't flood this year, it has done in the past, so any improvements to the defences would be a good thing.
"The garden of my house, in Tamworth Road, flooded on Tuesday, so hopefully they' d prevent that in the future as well.
"My only issue is that we're right next to where some of the defences would be built, so I'm concerned about the effect construction might have on business."
A flood bank would also be raised from 1.5 metres to two metres for 800 metres on the Erewash Canal, near Sheetstores Junction, Sawley.
Ketan Patel, 25, of Stamford Close, which lies behind the bank, said: "Flooding still happens in the area year after year and nothing effective has been done about it. It's good to hear that money could be spent on stopping flooding."
Similar flood banks were installed in Hatton, on the River Dove, in 2002, which protected the village on Tuesday.
Hatton councillor Andy Roberts said: "The banks worked perfectly. It hasn't solved the village's flooding problem completely but it's certainly helped."
Other works which would be completed as part of the Erewash project include raising Tamworth Road, heading towards Sawley from Harrington Bridge, by about 30 centimetres for a distance of 50 metres.
The road would be raised by adding material to the surface and lane closures would be needed so that the work could be carried out.
A 120-metre flood wall would also be built by a drainage ditch adjacent to Newberry Avenue, Long Eaton.
A flood bank would also be raised near Attenborough Nature Reserve.
Too little, too late after years of mis management and under investment.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:09:23
Hundreds of houses in Long Eaton and Sawley would benefit from the Environment Agency project, which is part of a £51m scheme stretching through Nottingham.
Erewash Borough Council planners have backed the project but permission from Broxtowe Borough Council is still needed before building work can begin.
The Erewash council decision came after rivers burst their banks and caused chaos throughout Derbyshire on Tuesday.
James Mallender, project manager for the Environment Agency, said that building only part of the scheme would make the potential for flooding worse.
He said: "If we only build the defences we have permission for in Erewash, it would cause water levels to rise further down the Trent - that's why we need to wait for planning permission from Broxtowe Borough Council.
"In fact, water would flood back to Long Eaton, which would make the new defences redundant."
If planning permission is granted, construction of the defences will begin in April next year.
They would include a 200-metre-long and two-metre-high concrete wall next to Harrington Bridge, on the River Trent.
This would protect hundreds of houses to the south of Sawley and businesses such as the Harrington Arms and White House restaurant.
Ashley Matthews, owner of the White House, said that he was pleased to hear that new flood defences could be brought in.
He said: "Although the restaurant didn't flood this year, it has done in the past, so any improvements to the defences would be a good thing.
"The garden of my house, in Tamworth Road, flooded on Tuesday, so hopefully they' d prevent that in the future as well.
"My only issue is that we're right next to where some of the defences would be built, so I'm concerned about the effect construction might have on business."
A flood bank would also be raised from 1.5 metres to two metres for 800 metres on the Erewash Canal, near Sheetstores Junction, Sawley.
Ketan Patel, 25, of Stamford Close, which lies behind the bank, said: "Flooding still happens in the area year after year and nothing effective has been done about it. It's good to hear that money could be spent on stopping flooding."
Similar flood banks were installed in Hatton, on the River Dove, in 2002, which protected the village on Tuesday.
Hatton councillor Andy Roberts said: "The banks worked perfectly. It hasn't solved the village's flooding problem completely but it's certainly helped."
Other works which would be completed as part of the Erewash project include raising Tamworth Road, heading towards Sawley from Harrington Bridge, by about 30 centimetres for a distance of 50 metres.
The road would be raised by adding material to the surface and lane closures would be needed so that the work could be carried out.
A 120-metre flood wall would also be built by a drainage ditch adjacent to Newberry Avenue, Long Eaton.
A flood bank would also be raised near Attenborough Nature Reserve.
Too little, too late after years of mis management and under investment.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 02:09:23
Officials warn of more flooding
Council officials in Derbyshire have warned the flooding situation in the county could get worse with heavy rain predicted over the next few days.
The county council has estimated that clear-up and repair costs will run into hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Flood warnings remain in place for the River Trent at Cavendish Bridge, Sawley Marina, Trent Lock, between Drakelow and Clay Mills and Great Haywood.
Several roads in the east of the county still remain flooded.
Mike Ashworth, deputy environmental director from Derbyshire County Council, said he would be keeping a close eye on the situation.
"We've only got a certain amount of resources. There are lots of roads flooded all over the county, particularly down the eastern corridor.
"But with the all the land flooded across Derbyshire, we'll have to react as we're needed."
A clean-up operation got under way in the north of the county on Wednesday after towns and villages were hit hard by flooding.
So many roads were closed because of flooding that the county council ran out of warning signs, a spokeswoman said.
Liz Partington, emergency planning manager from Derbyshire County Council, said services had been stretched.
"Chesterfield and the eastern side of the county were quite badly hit. The River Rother burst its banks and we had to open a rest centre at Brookfield School in Chesterfield," she said.
"About 140 people passed through and 60 stayed overnight. People were working really hard on the ground, getting sandbags, that sort of thing, and at points services were stretched."
The council said that in high-risk areas sandbags are available free of charge once a flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:59:38
The county council has estimated that clear-up and repair costs will run into hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Flood warnings remain in place for the River Trent at Cavendish Bridge, Sawley Marina, Trent Lock, between Drakelow and Clay Mills and Great Haywood.
Several roads in the east of the county still remain flooded.
Mike Ashworth, deputy environmental director from Derbyshire County Council, said he would be keeping a close eye on the situation.
"We've only got a certain amount of resources. There are lots of roads flooded all over the county, particularly down the eastern corridor.
"But with the all the land flooded across Derbyshire, we'll have to react as we're needed."
A clean-up operation got under way in the north of the county on Wednesday after towns and villages were hit hard by flooding.
So many roads were closed because of flooding that the county council ran out of warning signs, a spokeswoman said.
Liz Partington, emergency planning manager from Derbyshire County Council, said services had been stretched.
"Chesterfield and the eastern side of the county were quite badly hit. The River Rother burst its banks and we had to open a rest centre at Brookfield School in Chesterfield," she said.
"About 140 people passed through and 60 stayed overnight. People were working really hard on the ground, getting sandbags, that sort of thing, and at points services were stretched."
The council said that in high-risk areas sandbags are available free of charge once a flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:59:38
Late finish but Derbyshire lose again
Leicestershire showed they are not ready to give up their Twenty20 crown when they beat Derbyshire by six wickets in what must be the latest finish to a match in England.
The Foxes chased down their target of 177 with two balls to spare as the pavilion clock showed 10.45pm after the match was held up for an hour by low sun.
Derbyshire Phantoms looked set for their first victory in this season's competition when they hit 176 for six, their second highest total in the competition with Greg Smith smashing 79 from 59 balls.
But HD Ackerman and Paul Nixon both struck half centuries to give the Foxes the edge and they kept their nerve to stay on course for a place in the quarter-finals.
The Phantoms innings was held up by the setting sun but Smith did not lose his concentration as he made Derbyshire's second highest individual score in the Twenty20.
His stand with skipper Simon Katich added 57 in six overs and he struck four sixes and five fours before he was stumped off John Maunders in the 17th over.
The Phantoms looked on course for an even bigger total but they lost momentum in the closing stages until Katich added a final flourish with an unbeaten 39 off 21 balls.
Leicestershire's fielding had not been as sharp as usual, with Ackerman putting down a simple chance at short midwicket when Smith was on 21 but he made amends with the bat after the home side had struck two early blows.
Paul Harrison miscued a drive at Kevin Dean to be caught by Katich at mid off for 18 in the fourth over and Dean struck again when he had James Allenby smartly stumped by Jamie Pipe standing up.
But Nixon responded to the situation with a typically aggressive innings and got off the mark by lifting Dean over midwicket for six.
The former England wicketkeeper worked the ball around skilfully and never allowed the asking rate to get out of reach as the third wicket pair rotated the strike.
Derbyshire switched their bowlers around and the game was still in the balance with the Foxes needing 43 from the last four overs but the pressure was released when Smith went for 17.
Graham Wagg gave the game another twist when he bowled Nixon for 65 from 41 balls to end a stand of 121 off only 70 balls but skipper Jeremy Snape hit two fours to cut the target to eight off the last over.
Although Ackerman was run out for 66 off 52 balls, John Sadler hit the winning runs to clinch the Foxes' second victory.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:57:13
The Foxes chased down their target of 177 with two balls to spare as the pavilion clock showed 10.45pm after the match was held up for an hour by low sun.
Derbyshire Phantoms looked set for their first victory in this season's competition when they hit 176 for six, their second highest total in the competition with Greg Smith smashing 79 from 59 balls.
But HD Ackerman and Paul Nixon both struck half centuries to give the Foxes the edge and they kept their nerve to stay on course for a place in the quarter-finals.
The Phantoms innings was held up by the setting sun but Smith did not lose his concentration as he made Derbyshire's second highest individual score in the Twenty20.
His stand with skipper Simon Katich added 57 in six overs and he struck four sixes and five fours before he was stumped off John Maunders in the 17th over.
The Phantoms looked on course for an even bigger total but they lost momentum in the closing stages until Katich added a final flourish with an unbeaten 39 off 21 balls.
Leicestershire's fielding had not been as sharp as usual, with Ackerman putting down a simple chance at short midwicket when Smith was on 21 but he made amends with the bat after the home side had struck two early blows.
Paul Harrison miscued a drive at Kevin Dean to be caught by Katich at mid off for 18 in the fourth over and Dean struck again when he had James Allenby smartly stumped by Jamie Pipe standing up.
But Nixon responded to the situation with a typically aggressive innings and got off the mark by lifting Dean over midwicket for six.
The former England wicketkeeper worked the ball around skilfully and never allowed the asking rate to get out of reach as the third wicket pair rotated the strike.
Derbyshire switched their bowlers around and the game was still in the balance with the Foxes needing 43 from the last four overs but the pressure was released when Smith went for 17.
Graham Wagg gave the game another twist when he bowled Nixon for 65 from 41 balls to end a stand of 121 off only 70 balls but skipper Jeremy Snape hit two fours to cut the target to eight off the last over.
Although Ackerman was run out for 66 off 52 balls, John Sadler hit the winning runs to clinch the Foxes' second victory.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:57:13
Prince Charles visits flood victims
The Prince of Wales will visit people caught up in the devastating floods as affected areas brace themselves for more heavy rain.
Charles will visit Catcliffe in Rotherham and Sheffield to meet some flood victims and emergency services, as the clean-up continues across the region.
He will also visit Derbyshire, which was another area affected by the flooding.
In Yorkshire, many homes remain flooded and without power with Bentley near Doncaster still badly affected.
Emergency services and homeowners are anxiously keeping an eye on the weather as more heavy rain is forecast over the coming days.
The regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, has promised up to £1 million in recovery funding to help businesses affected by the flooding.
The Government has been accused of underestimating the scale of the flood rescue effort after new figures showed as many as 3,500 people had been rescued by the fire service in the past few days - an effort that has been described as the biggest in peacetime Britain.
Newly-reshuffled Cabinet ministers Hilary Benn and Ed Miliband visited Yorkshire's flood stricken communities last night.
They promised that repairing their villages would be their top priority - but refused to guarantee flood defence work would be brought forward.
Sheffield floodingThe Sheffield area was devastated by the floods Mr Benn said: "People are angry and distressed about what's happened and I sympathise with those who feel this way.
"For those without insurance there will be support from the Government social fund. Once the immediate crisis has passed we will reflect on lessons to be learned."
Five people have already died in the flooding, which has forced hundreds of people in Yorkshire and the Midlands from their homes.
In Derbyshire meanwhile, the Prince will officially launch a scheme aimed at helping farmers in a national park find a market for their produce.
Peak Choice is a farmer-owned co-operative aimed at selling premium-branded beef and lamb to people living in Derbyshire's Peak District, said Clarence House.
It will be a means for upland farmers to stay sustainable and earn "a substantial premium" for their meat, it said.
Initially, 15 participants will sell beef and lamb in boxes, which will be available on the internet and through some local food outlets.
There are also plans to extend the range to other products through the initiative, which will be launched by the Prince at Grove Farm in Ashbourne this morning.
The Prince will follow the event with visits to a mobile training facility for dairy farmers in Onecote, Staffordshire, and Moorland visitor and learning centre in Edale, Derbyshire.
Britain is bracing itself for more heavy rain over the next few days.
The Met Office issued an early warning of severe weather, with further rain and showers forecast to sweep across parts of the UK later this week and through the weekend.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:51:47
Charles will visit Catcliffe in Rotherham and Sheffield to meet some flood victims and emergency services, as the clean-up continues across the region.
He will also visit Derbyshire, which was another area affected by the flooding.
In Yorkshire, many homes remain flooded and without power with Bentley near Doncaster still badly affected.
Emergency services and homeowners are anxiously keeping an eye on the weather as more heavy rain is forecast over the coming days.
The regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, has promised up to £1 million in recovery funding to help businesses affected by the flooding.
The Government has been accused of underestimating the scale of the flood rescue effort after new figures showed as many as 3,500 people had been rescued by the fire service in the past few days - an effort that has been described as the biggest in peacetime Britain.
Newly-reshuffled Cabinet ministers Hilary Benn and Ed Miliband visited Yorkshire's flood stricken communities last night.
They promised that repairing their villages would be their top priority - but refused to guarantee flood defence work would be brought forward.
Sheffield floodingThe Sheffield area was devastated by the floods Mr Benn said: "People are angry and distressed about what's happened and I sympathise with those who feel this way.
"For those without insurance there will be support from the Government social fund. Once the immediate crisis has passed we will reflect on lessons to be learned."
Five people have already died in the flooding, which has forced hundreds of people in Yorkshire and the Midlands from their homes.
In Derbyshire meanwhile, the Prince will officially launch a scheme aimed at helping farmers in a national park find a market for their produce.
Peak Choice is a farmer-owned co-operative aimed at selling premium-branded beef and lamb to people living in Derbyshire's Peak District, said Clarence House.
It will be a means for upland farmers to stay sustainable and earn "a substantial premium" for their meat, it said.
Initially, 15 participants will sell beef and lamb in boxes, which will be available on the internet and through some local food outlets.
There are also plans to extend the range to other products through the initiative, which will be launched by the Prince at Grove Farm in Ashbourne this morning.
The Prince will follow the event with visits to a mobile training facility for dairy farmers in Onecote, Staffordshire, and Moorland visitor and learning centre in Edale, Derbyshire.
Britain is bracing itself for more heavy rain over the next few days.
The Met Office issued an early warning of severe weather, with further rain and showers forecast to sweep across parts of the UK later this week and through the weekend.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-30 01:51:47
Another arrest in Rams takeover investigation
Police have arrested a man as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities at Derby County.
The inquiry relates to allegations regarding the takeover of the club in October 2003.
Officers arrested a 48-year-old man in London on Sunday. He has been released on police bail.
The investigation, which began last year, centres on a takeover at Pride Park by the previous board.
Jeremy Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding became club directors after Derby County was bought from administrative receivers for just £3, backed by a £15m loan from a Panamanian-registered company, ABC Corporation.
The new administration, headed by Peter Gadsby, which took over in April last year, is not connected with the investigation.
Two other men, aged 51 and 46, were arrested over the inquiry in May, but were also released on police bail.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:31:48
The inquiry relates to allegations regarding the takeover of the club in October 2003.
Officers arrested a 48-year-old man in London on Sunday. He has been released on police bail.
The investigation, which began last year, centres on a takeover at Pride Park by the previous board.
Jeremy Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding became club directors after Derby County was bought from administrative receivers for just £3, backed by a £15m loan from a Panamanian-registered company, ABC Corporation.
The new administration, headed by Peter Gadsby, which took over in April last year, is not connected with the investigation.
Two other men, aged 51 and 46, were arrested over the inquiry in May, but were also released on police bail.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:31:48
Town Centre store on fire
Firefighters have cordoned off a large part of Chesterfield town centre as they battle to halt a massive supermarket blaze.
Part of the roof collasped at Somerfield's Pavements store just before 5pm today - over three hours after the blaze broke out.
Sean Mahony, station manger based at Chesterfield Fire Station, described the blaze as 'a major incident'.
All the shops around Low Pavement, Beetwell Street, Vicar Lane, Packer's Row, the Shambles and Market Place have been evacuated. Embers were also landing on South Street.
Chesterfield Coach Station has been closed and buses are leaving from Stephenson's Place.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus have been called out to the smoke-logged building from stations in Chesterfield, Staveley, Dronfield and Clay Cross.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:28:45
Part of the roof collasped at Somerfield's Pavements store just before 5pm today - over three hours after the blaze broke out.
Sean Mahony, station manger based at Chesterfield Fire Station, described the blaze as 'a major incident'.
All the shops around Low Pavement, Beetwell Street, Vicar Lane, Packer's Row, the Shambles and Market Place have been evacuated. Embers were also landing on South Street.
Chesterfield Coach Station has been closed and buses are leaving from Stephenson's Place.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus have been called out to the smoke-logged building from stations in Chesterfield, Staveley, Dronfield and Clay Cross.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:28:45
Derbyshire humbled again
A fine all-round effort from Graeme Swann gave the Nottinghamshire Outlaws their third victory in the Twenty20 Cup over Derbyshire and ensured the 2006 finalists remain top of the North Division.
Swann's aggressive knock of 61 from 43 balls set the platform for the hosts to reach 203 for eight at Trent Bridge, their third-highest total in the competition, with David Hussey smashing 36 from 15 balls in a nine-minute cameo.
Only Derbyshire's left-arm spinner Ant Botha was able to stem the flow of runs with four for 29, but Swann did damage with the ball as he picked up three for 16 as the Phantoms crumbled to a 53-run defeat.
Travis Birt briefly threatened with 40 off 27 balls but was undone by a Swann off-break, with the only downside for Notts being a nasty-looking injury to Charlie Shreck.
Outlaws skipper Stephen Fleming chose to bat after winning the toss and he and opening partner Swann were quickly into their stride, with the New Zealander sending Tom Lungley for two sixes over mid-wicket in the third over before being caught at mid-off.
Mark Wagh picked up the pace with two fours and a six before he was bowled by Botha for 24, while Hussey crunched three sixes and three fours, including 22 off one over from Kevin Dean, who conceded 47 in three overs.
Hussey was bowled by Michael Dighton, and Swann then fell two balls later to Botha after top-edging a sweep to Chris Taylor at backward square leg, with three more wickets falling in the last three overs as Notts pursued more quick runs.
Facing a mammoth target, Dighton opted to attack from ball one, coming down the wicket to Shreck and smashing a drive straight on to the seamer's knee.
Shreck was helped off the pitch with Gareth Clough finishing the over without conceding a run, and from the moment Ealham opened up in the second over with two wickets, the chase looked impossible.
Birt and Simon Katich put on 61 for the third wicket but were always behind the rate, with Katich swiping to long-off and Swann picking up Graham Wagg and Birt off consecutive balls.
Ealham returned to clean up Ian Hunter and Dean edged behind off the penultimate ball of the match.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:24:20
Swann's aggressive knock of 61 from 43 balls set the platform for the hosts to reach 203 for eight at Trent Bridge, their third-highest total in the competition, with David Hussey smashing 36 from 15 balls in a nine-minute cameo.
Only Derbyshire's left-arm spinner Ant Botha was able to stem the flow of runs with four for 29, but Swann did damage with the ball as he picked up three for 16 as the Phantoms crumbled to a 53-run defeat.
Travis Birt briefly threatened with 40 off 27 balls but was undone by a Swann off-break, with the only downside for Notts being a nasty-looking injury to Charlie Shreck.
Outlaws skipper Stephen Fleming chose to bat after winning the toss and he and opening partner Swann were quickly into their stride, with the New Zealander sending Tom Lungley for two sixes over mid-wicket in the third over before being caught at mid-off.
Mark Wagh picked up the pace with two fours and a six before he was bowled by Botha for 24, while Hussey crunched three sixes and three fours, including 22 off one over from Kevin Dean, who conceded 47 in three overs.
Hussey was bowled by Michael Dighton, and Swann then fell two balls later to Botha after top-edging a sweep to Chris Taylor at backward square leg, with three more wickets falling in the last three overs as Notts pursued more quick runs.
Facing a mammoth target, Dighton opted to attack from ball one, coming down the wicket to Shreck and smashing a drive straight on to the seamer's knee.
Shreck was helped off the pitch with Gareth Clough finishing the over without conceding a run, and from the moment Ealham opened up in the second over with two wickets, the chase looked impossible.
Birt and Simon Katich put on 61 for the third wicket but were always behind the rate, with Katich swiping to long-off and Swann picking up Graham Wagg and Birt off consecutive balls.
Ealham returned to clean up Ian Hunter and Dean edged behind off the penultimate ball of the match.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 18:24:20
Agency slammed at bypass inquiry
THE Highways Agency was branded 'shambolic' and 'not fit for purpose' at a public inquiry into the controversial Mottram to Tintwistle bypass.
Opponents of the £115m scheme called for the hearing to be adjourned after substantial new evidence was submitted just days before it was due to start.
The proposed 3.5-mile road would take motorists away from the congested roads of Mottram, Hollingworth and Tintwistle, and link Tameside with the A628 Woodhead Pass to Yorkshire.
Charles Calvert, for the Highways Agency, said it had not complied with the statutory requirements when submitting the evidence.
He told the inquiry at Stalybridge Civic Hall there had been a number of difficulties in trying to introduce the new material.
The evidence makes amendments and corrections to the agency's environmental statement.
Stephen Greenhalgh, Highways Agency project leader, said: "There were 330 documents which should have been provided on deposit, 49 were either incorrect or missing in some way.
"I'm advised it has now been rectified."
A number of groups oppose the plans and several called for the public inquiry to be adjourned as they had not had enough time to study the `vast' new evidence.
John Hall, who said he represented the people of Denton and Audenshaw, said: "This late submission is shambolic and totally discredits the inquiry.
"I've already asked for this hearing to be held and now I think it should be adjourned.
"The Highways Agency is not fit for purpose. They have had five months since February to correct their own incompetence and they still have not achieved it.
"To allow us three days to look at this new evidence is totally and utterly unsuitable."
Anne Robinson, from the Friends of the Peak District, said: "We received this huge tome of documents and we need more time to go through it."
Pat Ellison, from Alternative Proposals for Transport, said: "We had documents cascading down on us, and as an archaeologist it is difficult when you cannot go to the beginning and work through."
Inspector John Watson, chairing the inquiry, agreed to hear opening arguments after which he said he would adjourn the hearing until next Tuesday.
A public inquiry was initially due to be held last year but it was postponed after 1,400 objections were lodged to the scheme.
Residents of Mottram, Tintwistle and Hollingworth have begged for a bypass since the 1970s as lorries have switched from the crowded M62 to cross the Pennines to Sheffield and the south.
The routes carry more than 40,000 vehicles a day, including 4,000 HGVs.
If the bypass opens, the Highways Agency predicts 70 per cent of traffic will be removed from Mottram, over 60 per cent from Tintwistle and about 25 per cent from Hollingworth.
Campaign groups have been set up, both supporting and objecting to the bypass.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:27:17
Opponents of the £115m scheme called for the hearing to be adjourned after substantial new evidence was submitted just days before it was due to start.
The proposed 3.5-mile road would take motorists away from the congested roads of Mottram, Hollingworth and Tintwistle, and link Tameside with the A628 Woodhead Pass to Yorkshire.
Charles Calvert, for the Highways Agency, said it had not complied with the statutory requirements when submitting the evidence.
He told the inquiry at Stalybridge Civic Hall there had been a number of difficulties in trying to introduce the new material.
The evidence makes amendments and corrections to the agency's environmental statement.
Stephen Greenhalgh, Highways Agency project leader, said: "There were 330 documents which should have been provided on deposit, 49 were either incorrect or missing in some way.
"I'm advised it has now been rectified."
A number of groups oppose the plans and several called for the public inquiry to be adjourned as they had not had enough time to study the `vast' new evidence.
John Hall, who said he represented the people of Denton and Audenshaw, said: "This late submission is shambolic and totally discredits the inquiry.
"I've already asked for this hearing to be held and now I think it should be adjourned.
"The Highways Agency is not fit for purpose. They have had five months since February to correct their own incompetence and they still have not achieved it.
"To allow us three days to look at this new evidence is totally and utterly unsuitable."
Anne Robinson, from the Friends of the Peak District, said: "We received this huge tome of documents and we need more time to go through it."
Pat Ellison, from Alternative Proposals for Transport, said: "We had documents cascading down on us, and as an archaeologist it is difficult when you cannot go to the beginning and work through."
Inspector John Watson, chairing the inquiry, agreed to hear opening arguments after which he said he would adjourn the hearing until next Tuesday.
A public inquiry was initially due to be held last year but it was postponed after 1,400 objections were lodged to the scheme.
Residents of Mottram, Tintwistle and Hollingworth have begged for a bypass since the 1970s as lorries have switched from the crowded M62 to cross the Pennines to Sheffield and the south.
The routes carry more than 40,000 vehicles a day, including 4,000 HGVs.
If the bypass opens, the Highways Agency predicts 70 per cent of traffic will be removed from Mottram, over 60 per cent from Tintwistle and about 25 per cent from Hollingworth.
Campaign groups have been set up, both supporting and objecting to the bypass.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:27:17
More fun in Staffordshire
The sun is out, school holidays are just around the corner and the kids are getting feisty so plan ahead and cover all corners this summer break with a trip to Staffordshire where your littlest and biggest ones will delight in the choice of fun to be had! A break in Staffordshire is ideal for giving your children all the fun of adventure, nature and even a little culture!
Adventure For the adventure loving kids there is plenty of choice from the thrilling rides at two of the country’s best loved theme parks - Alton Towers and Drayton Manor Park to getting wet and going wild at Stoke-on-Trent’s Waterworld, the UK's number one aqua park, with its own heart pumping indoor water ride, the Twister! Alternatively you could hit the indoor snow slopes at Tamworth’s Snow Dome, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and even bobsledding!
For something a little more traditional but still great fun why not enjoy a family cycling or horse riding trip through the stunning Manifold Valley, taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Peak District National Park. You could even hop on an adventurous old steam train that winds its way through the stunning landscape.
Nature: We all know that kids love to monkey around and they will have every excuse to at Trentham Monkey Forest, an unforgettable outdoor journey to meet 140 Barbary Macaques living in total freedom on 60 acres of forest. Next door the Aerial Extreme Park offers fantastic family adventure in the tree tops with a rope course that really leave you hanging around like a monkey!
For more animal fun Amerton Farm also offers plenty to see and do in lovely surroundings, with a fun filled indoor adventure play area, wonderful farm yard, wildlife centre and a craft centre where the whole family can get creative. Best of all, entry is free!
Blackbrook Zoological Park is also a great day out - whatever the weather. As a continually growing attraction there is always something new to see including rare birds, unusual animals, reptiles, insects and aquatics. You can enjoy a family picnic or have a meal in the Toucan Tearooms.
Culture: Renowned throughout the world Stoke-on-Trent is known affectionately as ‘The Potteries’ and just because it is a day out doesn’t mean that the kids have to stop learning and that learning can’t be fun! The world famous Potteries can be both educational and great fun at the same time, so the whole family will get something out of it.
Travel back in time at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery and discover the history of The Potteries. With pottery that will win your heart, galleries that win awards and the Spitfire that won a war, children will enjoy time at the museum which houses the world's best collection of Staffordshire ceramics - 'unrivalled on both national and international levels.' There is also a Secret Garden - an oasis with plants and fungi to smell and touch and where you can explore the wildlife and landscape. Meanwhile the internationally acclaimed visitor centres at Wedgwood and Spode have everything needed to fire your imaginations with craft demonstrations, factory tours and workshops where you can throw your own pot and paint your own ceramic flowers, to name but a few activities. Gladstone Museum is the only complete Victorian pottery factory from the days when coal-burning ovens made the world's finest bone china and all the family will enjoy turning their hand at working with the clay and coming up with their own unique creations!
Kids will also love to visit Etruria Industrial Museum, a 19th century mill situated on the Trent, Mersey, and Caldon canal. The Museum includes Jesse Shirley's Bone and Flint Mine and features a regular events programme that includes children's' hands-on activities during the school holidays. The museum includes a family friendly interactive exhibition, tearoom and shop.
With so much variety on offer and perfectly located for all to reach, Staffordshire, situated in the heart of England is for the perfect day trip or weekend family get-away destination.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:25:45
Adventure For the adventure loving kids there is plenty of choice from the thrilling rides at two of the country’s best loved theme parks - Alton Towers and Drayton Manor Park to getting wet and going wild at Stoke-on-Trent’s Waterworld, the UK's number one aqua park, with its own heart pumping indoor water ride, the Twister! Alternatively you could hit the indoor snow slopes at Tamworth’s Snow Dome, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and even bobsledding!
For something a little more traditional but still great fun why not enjoy a family cycling or horse riding trip through the stunning Manifold Valley, taking in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Peak District National Park. You could even hop on an adventurous old steam train that winds its way through the stunning landscape.
Nature: We all know that kids love to monkey around and they will have every excuse to at Trentham Monkey Forest, an unforgettable outdoor journey to meet 140 Barbary Macaques living in total freedom on 60 acres of forest. Next door the Aerial Extreme Park offers fantastic family adventure in the tree tops with a rope course that really leave you hanging around like a monkey!
For more animal fun Amerton Farm also offers plenty to see and do in lovely surroundings, with a fun filled indoor adventure play area, wonderful farm yard, wildlife centre and a craft centre where the whole family can get creative. Best of all, entry is free!
Blackbrook Zoological Park is also a great day out - whatever the weather. As a continually growing attraction there is always something new to see including rare birds, unusual animals, reptiles, insects and aquatics. You can enjoy a family picnic or have a meal in the Toucan Tearooms.
Culture: Renowned throughout the world Stoke-on-Trent is known affectionately as ‘The Potteries’ and just because it is a day out doesn’t mean that the kids have to stop learning and that learning can’t be fun! The world famous Potteries can be both educational and great fun at the same time, so the whole family will get something out of it.
Travel back in time at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery and discover the history of The Potteries. With pottery that will win your heart, galleries that win awards and the Spitfire that won a war, children will enjoy time at the museum which houses the world's best collection of Staffordshire ceramics - 'unrivalled on both national and international levels.' There is also a Secret Garden - an oasis with plants and fungi to smell and touch and where you can explore the wildlife and landscape. Meanwhile the internationally acclaimed visitor centres at Wedgwood and Spode have everything needed to fire your imaginations with craft demonstrations, factory tours and workshops where you can throw your own pot and paint your own ceramic flowers, to name but a few activities. Gladstone Museum is the only complete Victorian pottery factory from the days when coal-burning ovens made the world's finest bone china and all the family will enjoy turning their hand at working with the clay and coming up with their own unique creations!
Kids will also love to visit Etruria Industrial Museum, a 19th century mill situated on the Trent, Mersey, and Caldon canal. The Museum includes Jesse Shirley's Bone and Flint Mine and features a regular events programme that includes children's' hands-on activities during the school holidays. The museum includes a family friendly interactive exhibition, tearoom and shop.
With so much variety on offer and perfectly located for all to reach, Staffordshire, situated in the heart of England is for the perfect day trip or weekend family get-away destination.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:25:45
Flood disruption continues
Hundreds of families are still unable to return to their homes as floods continue to affect parts of England.
The weather has now claimed four lives including a 14-year-old boy and a county court judge from Worcestershire.
Flood water is continuing to rise in some areas, although forecasters do not expect a repeat of Monday's deluge.
The Queen has expressed her shock at the devastation caused by the flooding. She said her thoughts were with people who had lost family, friends and homes.
The floods have been most severe in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the Midlands.
In South Yorkshire, army personnel are moving sandbags in to reinforce the bank of the River Don after it burst its banks. An RAF helicopter is helping to shore up another part of the overflowing river.
Hundreds of families in the area remain in temporary accommodation.
And the search for a man reported to have fallen into a flooded drainage dyke near Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has been called off.
Police divers searched the water course after a woman reported hearing a man shouting for help, but found nothing. Nobody has been reported missing.
In other key developments:
Dozens of people have been moved out of their homes in the village of Toll Bar, near Doncaster, and locals say the water has continued to rise
Firefighters have rescued 25 people from cottages in the village of Powick, near Worcester, overnight
Residents of Bransby, Lincs, have been evacuated to Lincoln College, joining 20 people who spent the night there
Engineers are continuing their attempts to secure the Ulley dam, South Yorks, amid fears it could collapse and swamp nearby villages.
The Association of British Insurers says the overall cost of the floods will run into hundreds of millions.
They urged ministers to improve flood defences and warned that about one in four people did not have contents insurance, so would not be covered for flood damage.
Ministers have offered emergency aid to the worst affected areas to help with the cost of the clear-up.
In a message issued to 11 Lord Lieutenancy offices, the Queen expressed her admiration for the emergency services, the local authorities and volunteers "working tirelessly to help those affected".
She expressed her "heartfelt thanks" to everyone concerned with the relief efforts.
And Clarence House said the Prince of Wales will visit some of the flooding victims on Friday when he is due in the Peak District for a series of engagements.
David Rooke, head of flood risk at the Environment Agency, said on Monday morning the situation was "still very difficult" in parts of Yorkshire and the Midlands.
"But the situation is improving, river levels are dropping and obviously a massive clean up is under way," he said.
Baroness Young, the head of the Environment Agency, has blamed inadequate funding for the agency's failure to get the country's flood defences ready to cope with the rainfall.
She told MPs on the Commons public accounts committee that she rejected the charge that she had "manifestly failed" and should consider resigning.
In South Yorkshire, about 700 people have left the villages of Whiston, Canklow, and Catcliffe and Treeton, because of the risk of the Ulley dam bursting and are not expected to return home until Thursday.
In Sheffield, most of the people in emergency shelters have returned home but they face temporary power shutdowns as electricity supplies are restored.
On Monday, a pensioner died after he was caught in rising floodwater in Sheffield. He was named by South Yorkshire Police as Peter Harding, 68.
In a separate incident in the city a 14-year-old boy, named as Ryan Joe Parry, was killed after falling into the River Sheaf at Millhouses.
A third person, Mike Barnett, 28, died after becoming trapped in a storm drain in Hull.
The fourth victim of the flooding, Eric Dickinson, 68, was swept away by rising flood waters in Pershore, Worcestershire.
A search had been launched for Mr Dickinson, a county court judge, who lived in Leigh, near Pershore, after he telephoned his wife on his mobile phone to raise the alarm.
Tony Blair, in his last day as prime minister, expressed sympathy for the families of the dead and said more money would need to be spent on flood prevention.
"I think we should all send our condolences and sympathy to the families of those that have lost their lives," he told the House of Commons.
The Environment Agency still has several severe flood warnings in place, and forecasters are warning that flood-hit areas could be hit by more rain at the weekend.
The Environment Agency has advised people worried about flooding to call its Flood Line on 08459 881 188.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:22:19
The weather has now claimed four lives including a 14-year-old boy and a county court judge from Worcestershire.
Flood water is continuing to rise in some areas, although forecasters do not expect a repeat of Monday's deluge.
The Queen has expressed her shock at the devastation caused by the flooding. She said her thoughts were with people who had lost family, friends and homes.
The floods have been most severe in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the Midlands.
In South Yorkshire, army personnel are moving sandbags in to reinforce the bank of the River Don after it burst its banks. An RAF helicopter is helping to shore up another part of the overflowing river.
Hundreds of families in the area remain in temporary accommodation.
And the search for a man reported to have fallen into a flooded drainage dyke near Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has been called off.
Police divers searched the water course after a woman reported hearing a man shouting for help, but found nothing. Nobody has been reported missing.
In other key developments:
Dozens of people have been moved out of their homes in the village of Toll Bar, near Doncaster, and locals say the water has continued to rise
Firefighters have rescued 25 people from cottages in the village of Powick, near Worcester, overnight
Residents of Bransby, Lincs, have been evacuated to Lincoln College, joining 20 people who spent the night there
Engineers are continuing their attempts to secure the Ulley dam, South Yorks, amid fears it could collapse and swamp nearby villages.
The Association of British Insurers says the overall cost of the floods will run into hundreds of millions.
They urged ministers to improve flood defences and warned that about one in four people did not have contents insurance, so would not be covered for flood damage.
Ministers have offered emergency aid to the worst affected areas to help with the cost of the clear-up.
In a message issued to 11 Lord Lieutenancy offices, the Queen expressed her admiration for the emergency services, the local authorities and volunteers "working tirelessly to help those affected".
She expressed her "heartfelt thanks" to everyone concerned with the relief efforts.
And Clarence House said the Prince of Wales will visit some of the flooding victims on Friday when he is due in the Peak District for a series of engagements.
David Rooke, head of flood risk at the Environment Agency, said on Monday morning the situation was "still very difficult" in parts of Yorkshire and the Midlands.
"But the situation is improving, river levels are dropping and obviously a massive clean up is under way," he said.
Baroness Young, the head of the Environment Agency, has blamed inadequate funding for the agency's failure to get the country's flood defences ready to cope with the rainfall.
She told MPs on the Commons public accounts committee that she rejected the charge that she had "manifestly failed" and should consider resigning.
In South Yorkshire, about 700 people have left the villages of Whiston, Canklow, and Catcliffe and Treeton, because of the risk of the Ulley dam bursting and are not expected to return home until Thursday.
In Sheffield, most of the people in emergency shelters have returned home but they face temporary power shutdowns as electricity supplies are restored.
On Monday, a pensioner died after he was caught in rising floodwater in Sheffield. He was named by South Yorkshire Police as Peter Harding, 68.
In a separate incident in the city a 14-year-old boy, named as Ryan Joe Parry, was killed after falling into the River Sheaf at Millhouses.
A third person, Mike Barnett, 28, died after becoming trapped in a storm drain in Hull.
The fourth victim of the flooding, Eric Dickinson, 68, was swept away by rising flood waters in Pershore, Worcestershire.
A search had been launched for Mr Dickinson, a county court judge, who lived in Leigh, near Pershore, after he telephoned his wife on his mobile phone to raise the alarm.
Tony Blair, in his last day as prime minister, expressed sympathy for the families of the dead and said more money would need to be spent on flood prevention.
"I think we should all send our condolences and sympathy to the families of those that have lost their lives," he told the House of Commons.
The Environment Agency still has several severe flood warnings in place, and forecasters are warning that flood-hit areas could be hit by more rain at the weekend.
The Environment Agency has advised people worried about flooding to call its Flood Line on 08459 881 188.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:22:19
Staffordshire Fun
It is June, six months into 2007 and most of us would have barely thought about our new year resolutions since January 2nd.
After all, breaking them, or more likely, not starting them, is about as traditional as the resolutions themselves but a far easier ritual to keep.
Have no fear though – as the old adage goes, never say never, as an active break in England could get you feeling healthy and fit again.
The activity-filled county of Staffordshire has everything from places for gentle exercise to adrenaline-fuelled adventures for everyone.
If you want to start off easy then you should head straight to the countryside and enjoy the healthy and fresh summer air in the stunning surroundings of Staffordshire's landscapes.
Perfect for clearing the lungs and escaping the hustle and bustle of crowded town centres, it is a great way to have a quick energy boost while enjoying some time-out in the outdoors.
Extending from the forests and heaths of Cannock Chase in the south to the stunning remoteness of the Staffordshire Peak district in the north and across the pastures of Lichfield to the east to the heartland of England's canal heritage in the west, Staffordshire offers the perfect reason to get your walking boots on and embrace the British outdoors.
Of course, the British weather can never be guaranteed this summer and so if it is raining outdoors then you might as well get wet inside.
Stoke-on-Trent's Waterworld is the one of the UK's best aqua parks, and has its own indoor water roller coaster.
If you are a little more of an adrenaline junkie then Staffordshire's Snow Dome in Tamworth serves up a healthy slice of winter sports action and is a great way to cool off. You can enjoy a spot of downhill skiing or snowboarding and you can even cross-country ski.
Staffordshire is home to two of the country's best loved theme parks, allowing you to burn off a few calories cleverly disguised as pure, unadulterated fun. At Alton Towers and Drayton Manor Theme Park you will find adrenaline pumping, heart pulsing rides including the Spinball Whizzer, a spinning rollercoaster at Alton Towers and the Pandemonium at Drayton Manor, which throws riders 360 degrees through the air on rotating platforms at a force of 3.8 Gs – a guaranteed white knuckle ride that will get the heart going as much as any session as the gym could ever do.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:21:11
After all, breaking them, or more likely, not starting them, is about as traditional as the resolutions themselves but a far easier ritual to keep.
Have no fear though – as the old adage goes, never say never, as an active break in England could get you feeling healthy and fit again.
The activity-filled county of Staffordshire has everything from places for gentle exercise to adrenaline-fuelled adventures for everyone.
If you want to start off easy then you should head straight to the countryside and enjoy the healthy and fresh summer air in the stunning surroundings of Staffordshire's landscapes.
Perfect for clearing the lungs and escaping the hustle and bustle of crowded town centres, it is a great way to have a quick energy boost while enjoying some time-out in the outdoors.
Extending from the forests and heaths of Cannock Chase in the south to the stunning remoteness of the Staffordshire Peak district in the north and across the pastures of Lichfield to the east to the heartland of England's canal heritage in the west, Staffordshire offers the perfect reason to get your walking boots on and embrace the British outdoors.
Of course, the British weather can never be guaranteed this summer and so if it is raining outdoors then you might as well get wet inside.
Stoke-on-Trent's Waterworld is the one of the UK's best aqua parks, and has its own indoor water roller coaster.
If you are a little more of an adrenaline junkie then Staffordshire's Snow Dome in Tamworth serves up a healthy slice of winter sports action and is a great way to cool off. You can enjoy a spot of downhill skiing or snowboarding and you can even cross-country ski.
Staffordshire is home to two of the country's best loved theme parks, allowing you to burn off a few calories cleverly disguised as pure, unadulterated fun. At Alton Towers and Drayton Manor Theme Park you will find adrenaline pumping, heart pulsing rides including the Spinball Whizzer, a spinning rollercoaster at Alton Towers and the Pandemonium at Drayton Manor, which throws riders 360 degrees through the air on rotating platforms at a force of 3.8 Gs – a guaranteed white knuckle ride that will get the heart going as much as any session as the gym could ever do.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:21:11
Queen's message for flood victims
The Queen has sent a message of support to those affected by the devastating floods.
She said her thoughts were with those who lost loved ones in the severe weather conditions.
In a message delivered to 11 Lord Lieutenants, she said: "I have been shocked by the news and pictures of the devastation caused by the severe flooding across the country.
"My thoughts are with those who have lost family or friends, whose homes or livelihoods have been damaged, and all those who have been displaced by these events.
"May I also express my admiration for the emergency services, the local authorities and volunteers working tirelessly to help those affected.
"To everyone concerned with the relief efforts I send my heartfelt thanks."
The Prince of Wales will visit some of the flooding victims on Friday when he is due in the Peak District for a series of engagements, Clarence House said.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:19:46
She said her thoughts were with those who lost loved ones in the severe weather conditions.
In a message delivered to 11 Lord Lieutenants, she said: "I have been shocked by the news and pictures of the devastation caused by the severe flooding across the country.
"My thoughts are with those who have lost family or friends, whose homes or livelihoods have been damaged, and all those who have been displaced by these events.
"May I also express my admiration for the emergency services, the local authorities and volunteers working tirelessly to help those affected.
"To everyone concerned with the relief efforts I send my heartfelt thanks."
The Prince of Wales will visit some of the flooding victims on Friday when he is due in the Peak District for a series of engagements, Clarence House said.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-27 16:19:46
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Commons Debate on South Yorkshire Floods
South Yorkshire's catastrophic flooding is to be the focus of discussions in the House of Commons this afternoon.
Environment Minister David Miliband was today due to make a statement to the House after late night discussions with South Yorkshire's MPs yesterday evening.
David Blunkett MP, whose Brightside constituency was at the centre of some of the most dramatic floods and rescue operations yesterday, told The Star today: "Last night the Secretary of State for the Environment, David Miliband, agreed to make a statement to the House of Commons this afternoon.
"He will be addressing what the Government can do to help the city, and we will be pressing him to ensure there is emergency help for Sheffield, both in terms of likely further rain later this week and what measures need to be taken in preparation, and helping with the devastation in terms of both personal loss and the impact on businesses."
Mr Blunkett pledged to press for emergency government funding for the areas affected. "We are talking about millions of pounds' worth of damage," he said.
Sheffield Attercliffe MP Clive Betts, whose constituency was also very badly damaged, said Mr Miliband was planning to visit the city.
"The Sheffield and Rotherham MPs had a meeting last night and we had a briefing with David Miliband. He was also speaking to the chief executive of Sheffield Council at the command centre last night.
"David Miliband will visit Sheffield before the end of the week, although he won't come immediately as he doesn't want to add to the problems as the police are advising people only to travel to Sheffield if it's completely necessary."
Rotherham MP Denis MacShane said South Yorkshire is now in a "state of emergency".
He said: "I appeal to the Government to view that this is a state of emergency and designate special government help so the people of South Yorkshire know the Government is on their side.
"The situation is obviously very, very worrying. I have been talking with other South Yorkshire MPs about emergency aid from the Government."
Kevin Barron MP for Rother Valley, said: "It is very worrying - especially for those villages near the dam. It is an impossible situation which is an outcome of all this rain - the consequences look very bleak."
Oliver Heald MP, Shadow Minister for Sheffield, said he intends to speak in the Commons today about the flooding.
"I have kept in regular touch with Coun Anne Smith in Sheffield as the situation has unfolded," he said. "I would like to pay a huge tribute to the courage and resilience of Sheffield residents as they faced the worst flooding in living memory.
"It is clear the emergency services responded magnificently and Sheffield Council have coped remarkably well under very difficult circumstances with many staff working through the night.
"It is tragic that Sheffield residents have lost their lives and our thoughts are with their friends and families.
"Given that Sheffield has five rivers and with future climate change bringing new challenges and risks, there will clearly need to be an urgent review to ensure contingency plans are robust. There will also be lessons to be learnt from this dreadful experience.
"I am grateful that my own family in Sheffield are safe."
Mr Blunkett said the Armed Services had done "a first-class job in using helicopters to lift people from commercial premises in the Brightside Lane area of the city, and have promised further help if required".
At Sheffield's Chamber of Commerce headquarters at Albion House 10 staff had to be winched to safety by helicopter after fast rising water levels engulfed the building in Savile Street.
Staff had been told to evacuate but some were unable to reach safety.
Chief Executive Nigel Tomlinson said: "First of all I must thank all of the emergency services for all of their efforts throughout the afternoon and night.
"However, many members businesses have woken up this morning - as we have - to scenes of devastation. Clean-ups are under way but this is going to take some time and at some cost.
"Many businesses will not be operating today and others will be affected for a long time to come. Machinery, stock, buildings and transport infrastructure have all been damaged after becoming submerged under a torrent of water.
"The insurance bills will be horrific and the impact on the city will be significant.
"It is our view that there needs to be some consideration at national level for relief to help so many affected people cope with the devastation of the floods," added Mr Tomlinson, who confirmed that he will be briefing council leader Jan Wilson later today on the impact on business of the floods.
Today the Chamber offices were closed after water flooded the building's ground floor. The South Yorkshire International Trade Centre and Business Link offices were badly hit.
Director Stephen Mitchell was one of the 10 people taken to safety from the top of the building.
"We had told staff to leave the building but the water rose so quickly some of us had to stay in," said Stephen.
"The helicopters winched us up from the top of the building and took us to a variety of safe places where we were able to make it home. We cannot thank the emergency services enough for their help."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:38:35
Environment Minister David Miliband was today due to make a statement to the House after late night discussions with South Yorkshire's MPs yesterday evening.
David Blunkett MP, whose Brightside constituency was at the centre of some of the most dramatic floods and rescue operations yesterday, told The Star today: "Last night the Secretary of State for the Environment, David Miliband, agreed to make a statement to the House of Commons this afternoon.
"He will be addressing what the Government can do to help the city, and we will be pressing him to ensure there is emergency help for Sheffield, both in terms of likely further rain later this week and what measures need to be taken in preparation, and helping with the devastation in terms of both personal loss and the impact on businesses."
Mr Blunkett pledged to press for emergency government funding for the areas affected. "We are talking about millions of pounds' worth of damage," he said.
Sheffield Attercliffe MP Clive Betts, whose constituency was also very badly damaged, said Mr Miliband was planning to visit the city.
"The Sheffield and Rotherham MPs had a meeting last night and we had a briefing with David Miliband. He was also speaking to the chief executive of Sheffield Council at the command centre last night.
"David Miliband will visit Sheffield before the end of the week, although he won't come immediately as he doesn't want to add to the problems as the police are advising people only to travel to Sheffield if it's completely necessary."
Rotherham MP Denis MacShane said South Yorkshire is now in a "state of emergency".
He said: "I appeal to the Government to view that this is a state of emergency and designate special government help so the people of South Yorkshire know the Government is on their side.
"The situation is obviously very, very worrying. I have been talking with other South Yorkshire MPs about emergency aid from the Government."
Kevin Barron MP for Rother Valley, said: "It is very worrying - especially for those villages near the dam. It is an impossible situation which is an outcome of all this rain - the consequences look very bleak."
Oliver Heald MP, Shadow Minister for Sheffield, said he intends to speak in the Commons today about the flooding.
"I have kept in regular touch with Coun Anne Smith in Sheffield as the situation has unfolded," he said. "I would like to pay a huge tribute to the courage and resilience of Sheffield residents as they faced the worst flooding in living memory.
"It is clear the emergency services responded magnificently and Sheffield Council have coped remarkably well under very difficult circumstances with many staff working through the night.
"It is tragic that Sheffield residents have lost their lives and our thoughts are with their friends and families.
"Given that Sheffield has five rivers and with future climate change bringing new challenges and risks, there will clearly need to be an urgent review to ensure contingency plans are robust. There will also be lessons to be learnt from this dreadful experience.
"I am grateful that my own family in Sheffield are safe."
Mr Blunkett said the Armed Services had done "a first-class job in using helicopters to lift people from commercial premises in the Brightside Lane area of the city, and have promised further help if required".
At Sheffield's Chamber of Commerce headquarters at Albion House 10 staff had to be winched to safety by helicopter after fast rising water levels engulfed the building in Savile Street.
Staff had been told to evacuate but some were unable to reach safety.
Chief Executive Nigel Tomlinson said: "First of all I must thank all of the emergency services for all of their efforts throughout the afternoon and night.
"However, many members businesses have woken up this morning - as we have - to scenes of devastation. Clean-ups are under way but this is going to take some time and at some cost.
"Many businesses will not be operating today and others will be affected for a long time to come. Machinery, stock, buildings and transport infrastructure have all been damaged after becoming submerged under a torrent of water.
"The insurance bills will be horrific and the impact on the city will be significant.
"It is our view that there needs to be some consideration at national level for relief to help so many affected people cope with the devastation of the floods," added Mr Tomlinson, who confirmed that he will be briefing council leader Jan Wilson later today on the impact on business of the floods.
Today the Chamber offices were closed after water flooded the building's ground floor. The South Yorkshire International Trade Centre and Business Link offices were badly hit.
Director Stephen Mitchell was one of the 10 people taken to safety from the top of the building.
"We had told staff to leave the building but the water rose so quickly some of us had to stay in," said Stephen.
"The helicopters winched us up from the top of the building and took us to a variety of safe places where we were able to make it home. We cannot thank the emergency services enough for their help."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:38:35
Two die in Sheffield city floods
TWO people - including a boy of 14 - have died as Sheffield was hit by the worst flooding seen in years.
Teenager Ryan Joe Parry died after being swept into the swollen River Sheaf in Millhouses Park, Sheffield, as he walked home from school this afternoon.
His body was found a quarter of a mile downstream by firefighters and members of South Yorkshire Police's underwater search team.
Later in the day a 68-year-old man was swept into water which had engulfed the area of Carlisle Street and Newhall Street close to The Wicker.
Police believe he was trying to cross the road when he got into difficulty. He was found by passer-by and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Northern General Hospital.
The Northern General Hospital had earlier appealed for all staff who weren't scheduled to work to come in.
Parts of Sheffield city centre were underwater and the Environment Agency issued severe Flood Warnings in Rotherham, Kilnhurst, Brampton and Chesterfield as the Rivers Don and Rother swelled to within inches of bursting.
All public transport to the Meadowhall area - buses, trams and trains - have been cancelled and some workers near the riverside are trapped in their offices.
Traffic in and around Sheffield came to a standstill as motorists tried to battle through the flood ravaged streets.
Kelham Island Museum was reported to be flooded while offices and shops around The Wicker and Nursery Street were evacuated.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:37:08
Teenager Ryan Joe Parry died after being swept into the swollen River Sheaf in Millhouses Park, Sheffield, as he walked home from school this afternoon.
His body was found a quarter of a mile downstream by firefighters and members of South Yorkshire Police's underwater search team.
Later in the day a 68-year-old man was swept into water which had engulfed the area of Carlisle Street and Newhall Street close to The Wicker.
Police believe he was trying to cross the road when he got into difficulty. He was found by passer-by and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Northern General Hospital.
The Northern General Hospital had earlier appealed for all staff who weren't scheduled to work to come in.
Parts of Sheffield city centre were underwater and the Environment Agency issued severe Flood Warnings in Rotherham, Kilnhurst, Brampton and Chesterfield as the Rivers Don and Rother swelled to within inches of bursting.
All public transport to the Meadowhall area - buses, trams and trains - have been cancelled and some workers near the riverside are trapped in their offices.
Traffic in and around Sheffield came to a standstill as motorists tried to battle through the flood ravaged streets.
Kelham Island Museum was reported to be flooded while offices and shops around The Wicker and Nursery Street were evacuated.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:37:08
Rains batter Dales
Flash floods yesterday brought areas of the Dales to a standstill and left many more under inches of water.
Areas of Tansley, Matlock, Darley Dale, Bakewell, Rowsley and Wirksworth were among those flooded when torrential rain hit the region.
Haddon Hall closed to visitors on Monday after its visitor car park and crossing were flooded, and a camp site at Chatsworth was evacuated.
The river through Hall Leys Park, Matlock, burst its banks early on Tuesday morning, and the footbridge across the Derwent was closed.
The fire service were called upon to pump water from the main road in Tansley, from Smedley Street in Matlock and, perhaps inevitably, Water Lane in Wirksworth.
Stretches of the A6 near to Homesford Cottage and Greenaway Lane in Darley Dale were said to be among the worst areas for collected water, while some reported that parts of Rowsley were "impassable" to anything without four wheel drive.
Trees fell in the road near to Masson Mill and Homesford Cottage, on the Via Gellia and in Hackney, Bakewell, Baslow and Youlgrave.
Allotment holders in Grindleford were left feeling under the weather when freak floods turned their prize plots into a lake.
Meanwhile businesses in Station Yard, Rowsley were singing the praises of emergency workers who came to their aid when water levels reached dangerous levels.
Edale Mountain Rescue Team was called to assist South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service with workers who had been trapped inside offices and factories by the flash flooding in Sheffield.
But en route the team transported an eight-and-a-half-month pregnant woman to her home after she became stranded in floodwaters in Chesterfield.
Ashover saw 8.24 inches of rain fall between June 12 and 25, the average being around 1.25 inches. More than 2.7 inches fell on Monday alone.
More rain is forecast for the Dales on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:33:24
Areas of Tansley, Matlock, Darley Dale, Bakewell, Rowsley and Wirksworth were among those flooded when torrential rain hit the region.
Haddon Hall closed to visitors on Monday after its visitor car park and crossing were flooded, and a camp site at Chatsworth was evacuated.
The river through Hall Leys Park, Matlock, burst its banks early on Tuesday morning, and the footbridge across the Derwent was closed.
The fire service were called upon to pump water from the main road in Tansley, from Smedley Street in Matlock and, perhaps inevitably, Water Lane in Wirksworth.
Stretches of the A6 near to Homesford Cottage and Greenaway Lane in Darley Dale were said to be among the worst areas for collected water, while some reported that parts of Rowsley were "impassable" to anything without four wheel drive.
Trees fell in the road near to Masson Mill and Homesford Cottage, on the Via Gellia and in Hackney, Bakewell, Baslow and Youlgrave.
Allotment holders in Grindleford were left feeling under the weather when freak floods turned their prize plots into a lake.
Meanwhile businesses in Station Yard, Rowsley were singing the praises of emergency workers who came to their aid when water levels reached dangerous levels.
Edale Mountain Rescue Team was called to assist South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service with workers who had been trapped inside offices and factories by the flash flooding in Sheffield.
But en route the team transported an eight-and-a-half-month pregnant woman to her home after she became stranded in floodwaters in Chesterfield.
Ashover saw 8.24 inches of rain fall between June 12 and 25, the average being around 1.25 inches. More than 2.7 inches fell on Monday alone.
More rain is forecast for the Dales on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:33:24
It's just not cricket
Even the Derbyshire groundstaff had to concede defeat to the incessant heavy rain that caused the abandonment of yesterday's Twenty20 Cup match against Durham at the County Ground.
Despite taking more than 4,000 gallons of water off the covers and the outfield before mid-afternoon, another deluge meant the game was called off at just after 5pm, two hours before the game was due to start.
Though it was a vain effort by head groundsman Neil Godrich and his team this time, their efforts had made play possible last Friday against Notts and on Sunday against the West Indians despite other rain-soaked days in this soggy June.
"This is the third time we've turned up and there's been water everywhere," Godrich said.
"The bottom end of the outfield was flooded yesterday but we had the pump going on the covers and I was on the outfield with the blotter and by quarter to three we could have played.
"It's a shame the second lot of rain came. It can be a bit heartbreaking sometimes but there's nothing you can do about it."
Bad weather for evening matches means long days for the groundstaff, who worked from 8am to 11pm last Friday, but Godrich says times like those, when they do beat the weather, make it all worthwhile.
"The rain doesn't bother you after 14 years in the job," he added. "But it's basically rained every day for the last two or three weeks and I've never known anything like that in June before.
"It can be hard work but when you manage to get ready for the game on time and two-and-a-half thousand people turn up, like they did last Friday, that does give you a lot of pleasure.
"That's what it's all about."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:30:57
Despite taking more than 4,000 gallons of water off the covers and the outfield before mid-afternoon, another deluge meant the game was called off at just after 5pm, two hours before the game was due to start.
Though it was a vain effort by head groundsman Neil Godrich and his team this time, their efforts had made play possible last Friday against Notts and on Sunday against the West Indians despite other rain-soaked days in this soggy June.
"This is the third time we've turned up and there's been water everywhere," Godrich said.
"The bottom end of the outfield was flooded yesterday but we had the pump going on the covers and I was on the outfield with the blotter and by quarter to three we could have played.
"It's a shame the second lot of rain came. It can be a bit heartbreaking sometimes but there's nothing you can do about it."
Bad weather for evening matches means long days for the groundstaff, who worked from 8am to 11pm last Friday, but Godrich says times like those, when they do beat the weather, make it all worthwhile.
"The rain doesn't bother you after 14 years in the job," he added. "But it's basically rained every day for the last two or three weeks and I've never known anything like that in June before.
"It can be hard work but when you manage to get ready for the game on time and two-and-a-half thousand people turn up, like they did last Friday, that does give you a lot of pleasure.
"That's what it's all about."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:30:57
Chaos in Derbyshire as swollen rivers keep rising
Flooding wrecked homes and caused traffic chaos across Derbyshire this morning.
Traffic backed up around Derby city centre as drivers tried to find passable routes.
The Environment Agency was keeping a close eye on the swollen River Derwent in Derby, which burst by the Silk Mill yesterday and Darley Abbey this morning.
The chaos, which began in some parts of Derbyshire on Friday, worsened this morning when even more roads and homes became swamped as waterways overflowed.
Station Approach in Derby was closed while drivers had to negotiate floodwaters in nearby Eastgate.
The inner ring road became gridlocked and by 8.30am, the A52 Derby-bound was at a standstill.
The A6 suffered the same fate around the Palm Court Island.
Haslams Lane, Darley Abbey, was closed, as was the A6 at Ambergate. Bridge Hill in Belper was flooded, as was Bridge Foot in the town, close to the Talbot Hotel pub.
A severe flood warning was placed on the River Erewash from Pinxton to Long Eaton, while the River Derwent from Ambergate to Little Eaton, Borrowash to Church Wilne, Little Eaton to Spondon and from Rowsley to Ambergate were also at risk.
Also on floodwatch were the River Dove at Sudbury and Uttoxeter and Doveridge.
A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: "We can't say there won't be more flooding in Derby but the Derwent should start to recede later today."
Jim Connolly, head of engineering at Derby City Council, said there was nowhere for the water in Station Approach to go.
He said: "This is a one in ten or one in 20 year event. There just isn't anywhere for the water to go so we'll have to wait for the river to subside."
Yvonne Bell, of the Talbot Hotel, Belper, said the pub cellar was 5ft deep in water. She said: "We're hopefully going to open but we'll just have to serve bottled beer and wine."
Eighteen inches of water flooded the Square and Compass Pub on Station Road in Darley Dale.
Landlord Mike Page said four customers had to spend the night on sofas in the pub because they were unable to get home.
He said this morning: "We've still got nine inches of water in one of the rooms that we're trying to sweep out at the moment."
Some houses in nearby Wyver Lane were knee-deep in water this morning. Brenda Stannering usually opens her riverside garden to the public for charity.
She said: "All the gardens have flooded. I can just see a few flowers poking out above the water.
"My neighbours have water in their house and it's up to the door of my house but I think the water is receding now."
The A6 Matlock was partially flooded in both directions along with Main Road, Smalley and Station Road, Borrowash.
A fallen tree blocked the A6 at Matlock Bath and drivers travelling along the A6 between Milford and Duffield were faced with foot-deep floodwaters.
The M1 was closed in both directions from junction 32 to 34 northbound and 36 to 32 southbound as there were fears the nearby reservoir could burst its banks. People were advised to use the M18 instead.
Three schools in the north of the county, Norbriggs Primary School, Hady School and Barrow Hill Primary - all based in Chesterfield - were closed.
A spokeswoman for the county council said this morning: "Our emergency planning team is still receiving a small number of requests for sandbags but their operation is very much scaled down this morning. They are offering advice to help with the clean-up.
"Our evacuation centre at Brookfield School, Chesterfield, closed this morning but as well as helping 105 local residents, it also last night provided overnight shelter for a coachload of 35 Gloucestershire pensioners who got stranded on their trip out.
"Our trading standards team is warning residents not to take offers of help from bogus builders or electricians who often call door-to-door after events like this."
Firefighters rescued horses from a field in Nottingham Road, Borrowash. Crews from Derby's Nottingham Road fire station led them to safety through a gate last night.
Crews from Crich also rescued horses from a field in Sawmills last night.
In the last 24 hours, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service received between 250 and 300 flood calls from residents.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:24:47
Traffic backed up around Derby city centre as drivers tried to find passable routes.
The Environment Agency was keeping a close eye on the swollen River Derwent in Derby, which burst by the Silk Mill yesterday and Darley Abbey this morning.
The chaos, which began in some parts of Derbyshire on Friday, worsened this morning when even more roads and homes became swamped as waterways overflowed.
Station Approach in Derby was closed while drivers had to negotiate floodwaters in nearby Eastgate.
The inner ring road became gridlocked and by 8.30am, the A52 Derby-bound was at a standstill.
The A6 suffered the same fate around the Palm Court Island.
Haslams Lane, Darley Abbey, was closed, as was the A6 at Ambergate. Bridge Hill in Belper was flooded, as was Bridge Foot in the town, close to the Talbot Hotel pub.
A severe flood warning was placed on the River Erewash from Pinxton to Long Eaton, while the River Derwent from Ambergate to Little Eaton, Borrowash to Church Wilne, Little Eaton to Spondon and from Rowsley to Ambergate were also at risk.
Also on floodwatch were the River Dove at Sudbury and Uttoxeter and Doveridge.
A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: "We can't say there won't be more flooding in Derby but the Derwent should start to recede later today."
Jim Connolly, head of engineering at Derby City Council, said there was nowhere for the water in Station Approach to go.
He said: "This is a one in ten or one in 20 year event. There just isn't anywhere for the water to go so we'll have to wait for the river to subside."
Yvonne Bell, of the Talbot Hotel, Belper, said the pub cellar was 5ft deep in water. She said: "We're hopefully going to open but we'll just have to serve bottled beer and wine."
Eighteen inches of water flooded the Square and Compass Pub on Station Road in Darley Dale.
Landlord Mike Page said four customers had to spend the night on sofas in the pub because they were unable to get home.
He said this morning: "We've still got nine inches of water in one of the rooms that we're trying to sweep out at the moment."
Some houses in nearby Wyver Lane were knee-deep in water this morning. Brenda Stannering usually opens her riverside garden to the public for charity.
She said: "All the gardens have flooded. I can just see a few flowers poking out above the water.
"My neighbours have water in their house and it's up to the door of my house but I think the water is receding now."
The A6 Matlock was partially flooded in both directions along with Main Road, Smalley and Station Road, Borrowash.
A fallen tree blocked the A6 at Matlock Bath and drivers travelling along the A6 between Milford and Duffield were faced with foot-deep floodwaters.
The M1 was closed in both directions from junction 32 to 34 northbound and 36 to 32 southbound as there were fears the nearby reservoir could burst its banks. People were advised to use the M18 instead.
Three schools in the north of the county, Norbriggs Primary School, Hady School and Barrow Hill Primary - all based in Chesterfield - were closed.
A spokeswoman for the county council said this morning: "Our emergency planning team is still receiving a small number of requests for sandbags but their operation is very much scaled down this morning. They are offering advice to help with the clean-up.
"Our evacuation centre at Brookfield School, Chesterfield, closed this morning but as well as helping 105 local residents, it also last night provided overnight shelter for a coachload of 35 Gloucestershire pensioners who got stranded on their trip out.
"Our trading standards team is warning residents not to take offers of help from bogus builders or electricians who often call door-to-door after events like this."
Firefighters rescued horses from a field in Nottingham Road, Borrowash. Crews from Derby's Nottingham Road fire station led them to safety through a gate last night.
Crews from Crich also rescued horses from a field in Sawmills last night.
In the last 24 hours, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service received between 250 and 300 flood calls from residents.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:24:47
Derbyshire road is one of Britain’s most improved
A rural road in Baslow has been praised as one of Britain’s most improved – but Derbyshire County Council is still urging motorists to take care on the county’s routes.
Last year the A623, which runs from Baslow to Chapel-en-le-Frith, was criticised for the high number of people killed and seriously injured.
But following more than £250,000 of improvements by the county council, the number of people killed and seriously injured on the road has fallen from 31 in 2000-2002 to 14 in 2003-2005.
The route has been highlighted as one of the most improved for safety in a report by Eurorap (the European Road Assessment Programme) published today. The A6 has been removed from the list of consistently high risk roads in the report based on road safety figures from 2003-05 but the A54 and A53 are both named in the ‘persistently high risk’ category.
More recent figures from 2006 show that the number of people killed or seriously injured on these routes is falling – one accident on both of them each in 2006.
Work to help reduce the number of accidents on the A54 is due to start this summer.
Measures include reducing the speed limit from 60mph to 50mph with better signage and road markings to warn motorists to take care. An extra safety barrier will also be installed to protect motorcyclists and an awareness-raising campaign will be rolled out to include the route this summer.
Plans to introduce safety measures on the A53 through the Peak District National Park have been drawn-up by the county council and officers are talking to the park’s authority to get these introduced.
Overall the number of people killed and seriously injured on the county’s roads is at its lowest for 12 years – 472 down from 686 in 1995.
Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for environmental services, said: “It’s good news that one of our roads has been highlighted for improvements to safety but one accident is still one too many.
“Last year we spent more than £10 million on safety measures on roads across the county but we know there’s still work to do and we’re working hard to reduce the number of people killed and injured on our roads.”
He added: “Derbyshire has many rural roads which are tight and twisty by nature and as always we would urge motorists to drive according to the conditions and at a sensible speed.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:20:24
Last year the A623, which runs from Baslow to Chapel-en-le-Frith, was criticised for the high number of people killed and seriously injured.
But following more than £250,000 of improvements by the county council, the number of people killed and seriously injured on the road has fallen from 31 in 2000-2002 to 14 in 2003-2005.
The route has been highlighted as one of the most improved for safety in a report by Eurorap (the European Road Assessment Programme) published today. The A6 has been removed from the list of consistently high risk roads in the report based on road safety figures from 2003-05 but the A54 and A53 are both named in the ‘persistently high risk’ category.
More recent figures from 2006 show that the number of people killed or seriously injured on these routes is falling – one accident on both of them each in 2006.
Work to help reduce the number of accidents on the A54 is due to start this summer.
Measures include reducing the speed limit from 60mph to 50mph with better signage and road markings to warn motorists to take care. An extra safety barrier will also be installed to protect motorcyclists and an awareness-raising campaign will be rolled out to include the route this summer.
Plans to introduce safety measures on the A53 through the Peak District National Park have been drawn-up by the county council and officers are talking to the park’s authority to get these introduced.
Overall the number of people killed and seriously injured on the county’s roads is at its lowest for 12 years – 472 down from 686 in 1995.
Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for environmental services, said: “It’s good news that one of our roads has been highlighted for improvements to safety but one accident is still one too many.
“Last year we spent more than £10 million on safety measures on roads across the county but we know there’s still work to do and we’re working hard to reduce the number of people killed and injured on our roads.”
He added: “Derbyshire has many rural roads which are tight and twisty by nature and as always we would urge motorists to drive according to the conditions and at a sensible speed.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:20:24
"Grand Designs" in the Peak District
An awards scheme has been launched to tie in with the publication of a new Design Guide for the Peak District National Park.
Celebrating the very best in building and landscape design in the National Park, the awards - open to individuals, businesses and community groups - will recognise exciting developments worthy of becoming the Listed Buildings of the future.
The lavishly-illustrated new Design Guide - aimed at householders, businesses, architects and developers - sets out best practice on developments from homes to shops, housing estates and industrial schemes.
Peak District National Park Authority planning committee chair Narendra Bajaria said: "The Design Guide celebrates sustainable and innovative designs that respect and enhance the Peak District National Park. The awards will recognise designs that fit these criteria and are in harmony with the area's traditions and environment. They will be an excellent way to establish a reputation for design excellence."
Local architects and designers were encouraged to enter the competition at the official launch of the Design Guide, with a keynote speech by Dr Richard Simmons, chief executive of the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment.
Dr Simmons, who knows the Peak District, having grown up in nearby Manchester and studied in Sheffield, said: "I wish you every success with this beautiful, well-balanced Design Guide. I hope people will use it to tell the story of the Peak District, so that they will look back in future years and say they created something that contributed both to its character and to the identity of the 21st century."
Especially useful to anyone making a planning application, the Design Guide illustrates buildings and public spaces that are fit for the future, but reflect the Peak District's past.
Full of inspiring examples, it offers advice on:
Local building traditions and craftsmanship
The importance of access and space around buildings
Blending contemporary with traditional
Consideration for the neighbourhood
Affordable housing to support communities
Energy, water and waste-efficiency
Sustainable materials and re-using buildings
Provision for wildlife.
Mr Bajaria said: "Nowadays we really value our heritage and want to safeguard our best landscapes, villages and historic buildings for future generations. At the same time we embrace the need for sustainable developments that make a positive contribution to the built and natural environment, addressing issues such as climate change.
"This guide shows how we can learn from the past and move forward in exciting new ways."
The guide is available on www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/designguide or as a hardback book, priced £9.99 + postage. To order a copy phone 01629 816200 or email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk
The Designs competition is open to projects completed between April 2002 and April 2007 and may be a new project or a restoration, large or small, building or landscaping. The deadline is 30 September 2007, and there will be an overall winner, with up to two highly-commended awards. Application forms can be downloaded from www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/designguide or contact the Authority on 01628 816200.
The National Park Authority has adopted the Design Guide as a "Supplementary Planning Document."
This means that it provides a benchmark for the Authority when considering planning applications, and so applications that follow the principles set out in the guide will have a greater chance of being approved.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:19:20
Celebrating the very best in building and landscape design in the National Park, the awards - open to individuals, businesses and community groups - will recognise exciting developments worthy of becoming the Listed Buildings of the future.
The lavishly-illustrated new Design Guide - aimed at householders, businesses, architects and developers - sets out best practice on developments from homes to shops, housing estates and industrial schemes.
Peak District National Park Authority planning committee chair Narendra Bajaria said: "The Design Guide celebrates sustainable and innovative designs that respect and enhance the Peak District National Park. The awards will recognise designs that fit these criteria and are in harmony with the area's traditions and environment. They will be an excellent way to establish a reputation for design excellence."
Local architects and designers were encouraged to enter the competition at the official launch of the Design Guide, with a keynote speech by Dr Richard Simmons, chief executive of the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment.
Dr Simmons, who knows the Peak District, having grown up in nearby Manchester and studied in Sheffield, said: "I wish you every success with this beautiful, well-balanced Design Guide. I hope people will use it to tell the story of the Peak District, so that they will look back in future years and say they created something that contributed both to its character and to the identity of the 21st century."
Especially useful to anyone making a planning application, the Design Guide illustrates buildings and public spaces that are fit for the future, but reflect the Peak District's past.
Full of inspiring examples, it offers advice on:
Local building traditions and craftsmanship
The importance of access and space around buildings
Blending contemporary with traditional
Consideration for the neighbourhood
Affordable housing to support communities
Energy, water and waste-efficiency
Sustainable materials and re-using buildings
Provision for wildlife.
Mr Bajaria said: "Nowadays we really value our heritage and want to safeguard our best landscapes, villages and historic buildings for future generations. At the same time we embrace the need for sustainable developments that make a positive contribution to the built and natural environment, addressing issues such as climate change.
"This guide shows how we can learn from the past and move forward in exciting new ways."
The guide is available on www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/designguide or as a hardback book, priced £9.99 + postage. To order a copy phone 01629 816200 or email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk
The Designs competition is open to projects completed between April 2002 and April 2007 and may be a new project or a restoration, large or small, building or landscaping. The deadline is 30 September 2007, and there will be an overall winner, with up to two highly-commended awards. Application forms can be downloaded from www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/designguide or contact the Authority on 01628 816200.
The National Park Authority has adopted the Design Guide as a "Supplementary Planning Document."
This means that it provides a benchmark for the Authority when considering planning applications, and so applications that follow the principles set out in the guide will have a greater chance of being approved.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:19:20
South Yorkshire underwater
Engineers were battling to stop a dam collapsing today as parts of the country struggled to cope with severe flooding which has claimed the lives of three people, including a schoolboy.
Hundreds of householders were evacuated from their homes during the night after Rotherham Council said there was a "significant risk" that the dam at Ulley Reservoir could burst.
One of the flood victims was named today as 14-year-old Ryan Parry, who died after being swept away in a flooded river in nearby Sheffield.
Tony Blair praised the efforts of the emergency services and offered sympathy to those who lost loved ones in the floods.
Speaking at a Downing Street news conference with California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on climate change, he said: "Our flood defences are holding but this is a difficult situation and it is not the first time over the past few years that we have been subject to quite unusual and extraordinary weather variations."
The devastation was not confined to South Yorkshire, with parts of the Midlands also suffering.
Dozens of people were evacuated from their homes in Ludlow, in Shropshire, when a bridge collapsed, severing a gas main and causing minor explosions.
The River Corve, swollen by torrential rain, washed away a 40-foot section of a main road leading into Ludlow at around 3am today.
In nearby Tenbury Wells, around 20 people were forced to leave their homes when the River Teme, which the Rover Corve flows into, burst its banks.
South Yorkshire Police said Ryan Parry died on his way home from school yesterday. His body was recovered in the Millhouses Park area of Sheffield after he died in the River Sheaf.
Yesterday, a 28-year-old man died after becoming trapped in a drain, despite a frantic attempt by emergency services to save him.
Mike Barnett was killed after becoming stuck in neck-high water in a storm drain in Hessle, near Hull.
The flooding also claimed the life of a 68-year-old man in Sheffield as he tried to cross a road flooded by water at about 8pm last night.
He was with two other men and was swept away, possibly as he tried to leave his stranded car.
The dam burst warning came overnight. Residents were taken by bus to a temporary evacuation centre set up at Dinnington Comprehensive School in Rotherham.
Council spokeswoman Tracy Holmes said: "We have taken professional advice from an engineer, who said there is a significant risk that the dam could fail.
"Public safety is paramount for us, so we started to evacuate from three specific areas."
One of the evacuees, Melvyn Stroughair, from Whiston, described what happened as he tucked into breakfast at the school this morning with his one-year-old son Harry.
He said: "We could not believe it.
"The whole family's here and we're just waiting to be told what's happening."
Water gushing down an overflow channel caused part of the earth bank on the dam to collapse.
The nearby M1 was closed in both directions between junctions 32 and 34 because of concerns about the dam, a Highways Agency spokesman said.
The dam is to the south east of Sheffield, which was overwhelmed by rising flood waters that brought chaos and destruction yesterday.
No homes in Sheffield are expected to be affected if the dam bursts.
But a power station that serves most of the city lies in the path of the reservoir, a Sheffield City Council spokesman said.
A major rescue operation involving three RAF helicopters was launched as the rising waters trapped workers and motorists in Sheffield last night.
The city was virtually cut off as the floods left office workers stranded in the Brightside Lane area.
More than 1,000 people spent the night in temporary rescue centres, either because their houses were flooded or because they were trapped in the city centre and could not get home.
Large parts of the city were left without power as the crisis developed, with added fears of sewage contamination.
The former industrial heartland of the city was submerged under several feet of water as the River Don burst its banks and the drainage system failed with the unprecedented rainfall.
The huge Meadowhall shopping centre was closed today as the clean-up operation began.
Sir Bob Kerslake, chief executive of Sheffield City Council, said: "We have seen the most intense rain since records began.
"This has been quite unparalleled and extraordinary. People who have lived all their lives in Sheffield would say this is the most severe flooding they've ever seen."
He added: "The focus of the last 24 hours has been life and limb and to make sure people are safe.
"The task of recovery starts now."
He said it was too early to estimate the cost of the flooding but it was expected to run into millions.
Elsewhere in South Yorkshire homes and businesses were being evacuated in Bentley, Doncaster, after the River Don burst its banks there.
The Hexthorpe area of Doncaster was also affected by the rising flood waters, a police spokeswoman said.
Tony Conlan, from MeteoGroup UK, the Press Association's weather division, warned that much of the country could be hit by more heavy rain this weekend.
The forecaster said today would be drier with only light showers here and there, allowing areas still under water to recover, with tomorrow also staying cool and breezy but dry.
But he said the picture for the rest of the week was mixed, with much of the country facing more showers and outbreaks of rain, even if not on the scale of yesterday's deluge.
He said: "There will be more heavy rain on Thursday night and Friday. We are not sure exactly where it is going to hit. There could be further heavy rain anywhere."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:17:04
Hundreds of householders were evacuated from their homes during the night after Rotherham Council said there was a "significant risk" that the dam at Ulley Reservoir could burst.
One of the flood victims was named today as 14-year-old Ryan Parry, who died after being swept away in a flooded river in nearby Sheffield.
Tony Blair praised the efforts of the emergency services and offered sympathy to those who lost loved ones in the floods.
Speaking at a Downing Street news conference with California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on climate change, he said: "Our flood defences are holding but this is a difficult situation and it is not the first time over the past few years that we have been subject to quite unusual and extraordinary weather variations."
The devastation was not confined to South Yorkshire, with parts of the Midlands also suffering.
Dozens of people were evacuated from their homes in Ludlow, in Shropshire, when a bridge collapsed, severing a gas main and causing minor explosions.
The River Corve, swollen by torrential rain, washed away a 40-foot section of a main road leading into Ludlow at around 3am today.
In nearby Tenbury Wells, around 20 people were forced to leave their homes when the River Teme, which the Rover Corve flows into, burst its banks.
South Yorkshire Police said Ryan Parry died on his way home from school yesterday. His body was recovered in the Millhouses Park area of Sheffield after he died in the River Sheaf.
Yesterday, a 28-year-old man died after becoming trapped in a drain, despite a frantic attempt by emergency services to save him.
Mike Barnett was killed after becoming stuck in neck-high water in a storm drain in Hessle, near Hull.
The flooding also claimed the life of a 68-year-old man in Sheffield as he tried to cross a road flooded by water at about 8pm last night.
He was with two other men and was swept away, possibly as he tried to leave his stranded car.
The dam burst warning came overnight. Residents were taken by bus to a temporary evacuation centre set up at Dinnington Comprehensive School in Rotherham.
Council spokeswoman Tracy Holmes said: "We have taken professional advice from an engineer, who said there is a significant risk that the dam could fail.
"Public safety is paramount for us, so we started to evacuate from three specific areas."
One of the evacuees, Melvyn Stroughair, from Whiston, described what happened as he tucked into breakfast at the school this morning with his one-year-old son Harry.
He said: "We could not believe it.
"The whole family's here and we're just waiting to be told what's happening."
Water gushing down an overflow channel caused part of the earth bank on the dam to collapse.
The nearby M1 was closed in both directions between junctions 32 and 34 because of concerns about the dam, a Highways Agency spokesman said.
The dam is to the south east of Sheffield, which was overwhelmed by rising flood waters that brought chaos and destruction yesterday.
No homes in Sheffield are expected to be affected if the dam bursts.
But a power station that serves most of the city lies in the path of the reservoir, a Sheffield City Council spokesman said.
A major rescue operation involving three RAF helicopters was launched as the rising waters trapped workers and motorists in Sheffield last night.
The city was virtually cut off as the floods left office workers stranded in the Brightside Lane area.
More than 1,000 people spent the night in temporary rescue centres, either because their houses were flooded or because they were trapped in the city centre and could not get home.
Large parts of the city were left without power as the crisis developed, with added fears of sewage contamination.
The former industrial heartland of the city was submerged under several feet of water as the River Don burst its banks and the drainage system failed with the unprecedented rainfall.
The huge Meadowhall shopping centre was closed today as the clean-up operation began.
Sir Bob Kerslake, chief executive of Sheffield City Council, said: "We have seen the most intense rain since records began.
"This has been quite unparalleled and extraordinary. People who have lived all their lives in Sheffield would say this is the most severe flooding they've ever seen."
He added: "The focus of the last 24 hours has been life and limb and to make sure people are safe.
"The task of recovery starts now."
He said it was too early to estimate the cost of the flooding but it was expected to run into millions.
Elsewhere in South Yorkshire homes and businesses were being evacuated in Bentley, Doncaster, after the River Don burst its banks there.
The Hexthorpe area of Doncaster was also affected by the rising flood waters, a police spokeswoman said.
Tony Conlan, from MeteoGroup UK, the Press Association's weather division, warned that much of the country could be hit by more heavy rain this weekend.
The forecaster said today would be drier with only light showers here and there, allowing areas still under water to recover, with tomorrow also staying cool and breezy but dry.
But he said the picture for the rest of the week was mixed, with much of the country facing more showers and outbreaks of rain, even if not on the scale of yesterday's deluge.
He said: "There will be more heavy rain on Thursday night and Friday. We are not sure exactly where it is going to hit. There could be further heavy rain anywhere."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-26 11:17:04
Monday, June 25, 2007
Bike fans flood to Donington Park
The spectacle of world-class motorbike racing drew thousands of people to Donington Park this weekend for the MotoGP.
Despite frequent downpours, more than 75,000 people saw Australian Casey Stoner take his fifth race victory of the season, while racing legend and seven-times world champion Valentino Rossi came fourth.
The crowd was a sea of umbrellas and waterproof jackets but the poor conditions made the GAS British Motorcycle Grand Prix all the more exciting for the fans.
Race fans watched free practice and qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday, both of which were marred by rain.
Rossi was one of three riders who took a tumble during free practice, although they all escaped unhurt.
Stoner, who leads the MotoGP championship, criticised the grip of the Donington Park track during wet conditions, despite resurfacing work carried out in 2005.
Danny Hobson, 25, of Nottingham Road, Belper, was at Donington Park for all three days.
Motorycle fans, travelling to Donington Park, and people using East Midlands Airport faced delays throughout the weekend because of the MotoGP.
Tailbacks were reported on the A42, A6 near Kegworth and M1 around junctions 23 and 24.
Motorists also experienced delays on the A50 and all around the village of Castle Donington and the circuit.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-25 07:20:48
Despite frequent downpours, more than 75,000 people saw Australian Casey Stoner take his fifth race victory of the season, while racing legend and seven-times world champion Valentino Rossi came fourth.
The crowd was a sea of umbrellas and waterproof jackets but the poor conditions made the GAS British Motorcycle Grand Prix all the more exciting for the fans.
Race fans watched free practice and qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday, both of which were marred by rain.
Rossi was one of three riders who took a tumble during free practice, although they all escaped unhurt.
Stoner, who leads the MotoGP championship, criticised the grip of the Donington Park track during wet conditions, despite resurfacing work carried out in 2005.
Danny Hobson, 25, of Nottingham Road, Belper, was at Donington Park for all three days.
Motorycle fans, travelling to Donington Park, and people using East Midlands Airport faced delays throughout the weekend because of the MotoGP.
Tailbacks were reported on the A42, A6 near Kegworth and M1 around junctions 23 and 24.
Motorists also experienced delays on the A50 and all around the village of Castle Donington and the circuit.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-25 07:20:48
Windies humiliated by Derbyshire
Another dire performance by West Indies prolonged the spectacle of debacle on their tour of England, as the tourists were humiliated by Derbyshire in their Twenty20 tour match. Tom Lungley and Ant Botha took 4 wickets each, and the West Indians crumbled to 84 all out chasing a moderate target of 136 for victory.
Uncapped Austin Richards topscored with 25 from 33 balls, but only Dwayne Bravo and Dwayne Smith otherwise reached double figures. The allrounders scored 12 and 13 respectively. Without the batting of injured Ramnaresh Sarwan and the retired Brian Lara, and with Shivnarine Chanderpaul rested for the fixture, it was an awkward lineup posed by the West Indians. The admittedly inexperienced team showed little structure and heart against a Derbyshire unit hardly acclaimed for its world-beating prowess.
Derbyshire took full advantage of their opponents uncertainty, and Lungley (4-11), Botha (4-14) and Dean 2-24 shared all 10 wickets in the space of 15.4 overs for the innings.
With the ball the West Indians were better, restricting Derbyshire to 135-6 in their 20 overs. Australian Simon Katich topscored in the innings and match with 31 from 28 balls, while Chris Taylor played a steady hand of 28 unbeaten. Gayle (2-14) took the wickets of Katich and Pipe crucially late in the innings, helping in the effort of restriction.
Expectations of a chase of 136 would typically see the international outfit winning through, even in a 20-over fixture. But it was clear who the better side was on the day, and a further embarrassment for West Indies sees a difficult road heading into the limited overs fixtures against England. This especially under new captain Chris Gayle, who was bowled for 4.
Derbyshire 135-6 (20 overs)
Simon Katich 31, Chris Taylor 28*, Michael Dighton 27
Chris Gayle 2-14, Ravi Rampaul 1-21
West Indians 84 (15.4 overs)
Austin Richards 25, Dwayne Smith 13, Dwayne Bravo 12
Tom Lungley 4-11, Ant Botha 4-14
Derbyshire won by 51 runs.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-24 15:57:34
Uncapped Austin Richards topscored with 25 from 33 balls, but only Dwayne Bravo and Dwayne Smith otherwise reached double figures. The allrounders scored 12 and 13 respectively. Without the batting of injured Ramnaresh Sarwan and the retired Brian Lara, and with Shivnarine Chanderpaul rested for the fixture, it was an awkward lineup posed by the West Indians. The admittedly inexperienced team showed little structure and heart against a Derbyshire unit hardly acclaimed for its world-beating prowess.
Derbyshire took full advantage of their opponents uncertainty, and Lungley (4-11), Botha (4-14) and Dean 2-24 shared all 10 wickets in the space of 15.4 overs for the innings.
With the ball the West Indians were better, restricting Derbyshire to 135-6 in their 20 overs. Australian Simon Katich topscored in the innings and match with 31 from 28 balls, while Chris Taylor played a steady hand of 28 unbeaten. Gayle (2-14) took the wickets of Katich and Pipe crucially late in the innings, helping in the effort of restriction.
Expectations of a chase of 136 would typically see the international outfit winning through, even in a 20-over fixture. But it was clear who the better side was on the day, and a further embarrassment for West Indies sees a difficult road heading into the limited overs fixtures against England. This especially under new captain Chris Gayle, who was bowled for 4.
Derbyshire 135-6 (20 overs)
Simon Katich 31, Chris Taylor 28*, Michael Dighton 27
Chris Gayle 2-14, Ravi Rampaul 1-21
West Indians 84 (15.4 overs)
Austin Richards 25, Dwayne Smith 13, Dwayne Bravo 12
Tom Lungley 4-11, Ant Botha 4-14
Derbyshire won by 51 runs.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-24 15:57:34
Brown admits tax has risen under Labour
Gordon Brown has acknowledged that tax has risen as a percentage of national income under the Labour Government.
The Chancellor defended his tax reforms, saying people supported the need to increase funding to the NHS.
Asked in a BBC interview if tax had gone up, he replied: "Because of National Insurance, yes."
Mr Brown, who takes over from Tony Blair as Prime Minister on Wednesday, also answered accusations of excessive state control under Labour.
He said: "I have learned a lot in the past ten years. I have learned that top-down, 'pulling the lever' solutions are not always the ones that are going to work best."
He said that when he is Prime Minister the Government will listen to people more on what he called the "big challenges" of climate change, global competition and terrorism.
"You really have to involve people and build a national consensus, if you are going to solve the challenges of the future," he said.
He also defended the decision to secretly offer Lord Ashdown a position in his Cabinet.
"Now whether it's as advisers or whether it's doing reviews or whether it's in other positions of government, I think we have a duty, and I have a duty, to draw on the best people, and to get the experience and the wisdom of people who can make a contribution, because they have national standing, to our national life."
He vowed to continue his search for the right people to appoint, even if they are not from the Labour Party, saying: "I want to get people of real talent and experience and expertise, not because of party labels but because they've got something to offer the country."
God help us all because we are going to need it with this idiot in charge. If you thought Blair was bad then consider him to be the calm before the storm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View- 2007-06-23 09:06:48
The Chancellor defended his tax reforms, saying people supported the need to increase funding to the NHS.
Asked in a BBC interview if tax had gone up, he replied: "Because of National Insurance, yes."
Mr Brown, who takes over from Tony Blair as Prime Minister on Wednesday, also answered accusations of excessive state control under Labour.
He said: "I have learned a lot in the past ten years. I have learned that top-down, 'pulling the lever' solutions are not always the ones that are going to work best."
He said that when he is Prime Minister the Government will listen to people more on what he called the "big challenges" of climate change, global competition and terrorism.
"You really have to involve people and build a national consensus, if you are going to solve the challenges of the future," he said.
He also defended the decision to secretly offer Lord Ashdown a position in his Cabinet.
"Now whether it's as advisers or whether it's doing reviews or whether it's in other positions of government, I think we have a duty, and I have a duty, to draw on the best people, and to get the experience and the wisdom of people who can make a contribution, because they have national standing, to our national life."
He vowed to continue his search for the right people to appoint, even if they are not from the Labour Party, saying: "I want to get people of real talent and experience and expertise, not because of party labels but because they've got something to offer the country."
God help us all because we are going to need it with this idiot in charge. If you thought Blair was bad then consider him to be the calm before the storm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View- 2007-06-23 09:06:48
Sharks in deep water over floods
Sheffield Sharks lost four of their players' cars when the Chapeltown car park flooded - days after the club paid off the final instalments on the finance agreements.
Director Sarah Backovic sighs: “You'd think with a name like the Sharks we'd be able to manage a bit of wet but I think we'll stick to playing indoors!"
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 09:04:45
Director Sarah Backovic sighs: “You'd think with a name like the Sharks we'd be able to manage a bit of wet but I think we'll stick to playing indoors!"
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 09:04:45
Windies in town
Caribbean cricket comes to Derby tomorrow as the West Indies begin their build-up to the first Twenty20 World Championship.
It is the start of a learning process for the West Indies in the shortest form of the game, as they take on Derbyshire in a glamorous Twenty20 friendly match at the County Ground (2.30pm).
But West Indies wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, the hero of his side's victory over the England Lions at Worcester on Wednesday, believes they can prove they have the firepower to take on the world in South Africa in September.
The one and only Twenty20 international that the West Indies have played so far finished in a tie in New Zealand over 16 months ago.
They have two matches against England at The Oval next Thursday and Friday and only two warm-up matches - tomorrow against Derbyshire and on Tuesday against a PCA Masters side at Arundel.
But the game at Worcester did allow them an extra rehearsal as it was reduced to 24 overs-a-side by the weather, and Ramdin believes they showed that, despite a disappointing World Cup, the West Indies will prove they are still a force in one-day cricket.
"For the past few years we have played good one-day cricket," he said.
"The guys are keyed up to one-day cricket."
Chris Gayle, one of the most destructive big-hitters in the world, is captain for this stage of the West Indies tour but it was opening partner Ramdin, with 73 off 52 balls, and Runako Morton (72) who turned on the power at New Road.
The tourists won the match with five balls to spare and Ramdin says that victory can set them on their way to burying the memory of their Test series defeat by England.
"Over the last couple of weeks, we have played up and down cricket," he added.
"We were not confident at all. Each time, you would like to go out and play and win, it doesn't matter whether it's off the last ball or by a huge margin. We would like to keep winning from here on."
Also in the West Indies 14 for their one-dayers will be Jamaican fast bowler Daren Powell, who played two first-class and a single one-day match for Derbyshire in 2004, when he was in England as Belper Meadows' overseas recruit in the County League.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 09:02:34
It is the start of a learning process for the West Indies in the shortest form of the game, as they take on Derbyshire in a glamorous Twenty20 friendly match at the County Ground (2.30pm).
But West Indies wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, the hero of his side's victory over the England Lions at Worcester on Wednesday, believes they can prove they have the firepower to take on the world in South Africa in September.
The one and only Twenty20 international that the West Indies have played so far finished in a tie in New Zealand over 16 months ago.
They have two matches against England at The Oval next Thursday and Friday and only two warm-up matches - tomorrow against Derbyshire and on Tuesday against a PCA Masters side at Arundel.
But the game at Worcester did allow them an extra rehearsal as it was reduced to 24 overs-a-side by the weather, and Ramdin believes they showed that, despite a disappointing World Cup, the West Indies will prove they are still a force in one-day cricket.
"For the past few years we have played good one-day cricket," he said.
"The guys are keyed up to one-day cricket."
Chris Gayle, one of the most destructive big-hitters in the world, is captain for this stage of the West Indies tour but it was opening partner Ramdin, with 73 off 52 balls, and Runako Morton (72) who turned on the power at New Road.
The tourists won the match with five balls to spare and Ramdin says that victory can set them on their way to burying the memory of their Test series defeat by England.
"Over the last couple of weeks, we have played up and down cricket," he added.
"We were not confident at all. Each time, you would like to go out and play and win, it doesn't matter whether it's off the last ball or by a huge margin. We would like to keep winning from here on."
Also in the West Indies 14 for their one-dayers will be Jamaican fast bowler Daren Powell, who played two first-class and a single one-day match for Derbyshire in 2004, when he was in England as Belper Meadows' overseas recruit in the County League.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 09:02:34
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Pedrosa wants more at Donington
Dani Pedrosa has asked for more power from his Honda engineers as he prepares for Sunday's British MotoGP at Donington Park.
The Spaniard lies third in the title rankings behind Ducati Marlboro's Casey Stoner and second-placed Valentino Rossi, on the Fiat Yamaha.
But Pedrosa, who was victorious at Donington last year, admits his Honda is down on power compared with Rossi and Stoner's machines.
He said: "So far this season, it has been difficult to stay with Casey and Valentino.
"I have been trying to get there but it has been a case of catching them at certain parts of races and then losing time and then catching them up again.
"But we are getting closer every time we race and I think we can step up our level again at Donington."
The tiny 21-year-old began the countdown for Sunday's race with practice and qualifying today.
Meanwhile, Stoner, who together with Rossi produced one of the finest MotoGP races of the decade at the last round in Barcelona, are ready to resume their battle.
Stoner made his GP bow at Donington when he was a wild card entry for the 2001 event.
That was to prove the jumping off point for a meteoric career that has taken him to within touching distance of the ultimate goal.
He won his first 125cc grand prix at Valencia in Spain in 2003 and joined the Ducati team at the start of this season.
The 21-year-old has had a truly remarkable, if so-far brief, career with the Italian factory team.
He has won four of the opening seven races and his performance at the Circuit de Catalunya, where he fought off everything that Rossi could throw at him to win by 0.069 seconds, was that of a future champion.
Stoner cannot wait to resume the tussle at a circuit where Rossi is an acknowledged master.
He said: "I always enjoy going back to England because that's where it all started and I have many friends and some great memories.
"The season has been fantastic and just could not have been better.
"Of course, it will be tough at Donington but the Ducati should be great there. I've never done that well at Donington previously and there would be no better time to put that right."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:52:28
The Spaniard lies third in the title rankings behind Ducati Marlboro's Casey Stoner and second-placed Valentino Rossi, on the Fiat Yamaha.
But Pedrosa, who was victorious at Donington last year, admits his Honda is down on power compared with Rossi and Stoner's machines.
He said: "So far this season, it has been difficult to stay with Casey and Valentino.
"I have been trying to get there but it has been a case of catching them at certain parts of races and then losing time and then catching them up again.
"But we are getting closer every time we race and I think we can step up our level again at Donington."
The tiny 21-year-old began the countdown for Sunday's race with practice and qualifying today.
Meanwhile, Stoner, who together with Rossi produced one of the finest MotoGP races of the decade at the last round in Barcelona, are ready to resume their battle.
Stoner made his GP bow at Donington when he was a wild card entry for the 2001 event.
That was to prove the jumping off point for a meteoric career that has taken him to within touching distance of the ultimate goal.
He won his first 125cc grand prix at Valencia in Spain in 2003 and joined the Ducati team at the start of this season.
The 21-year-old has had a truly remarkable, if so-far brief, career with the Italian factory team.
He has won four of the opening seven races and his performance at the Circuit de Catalunya, where he fought off everything that Rossi could throw at him to win by 0.069 seconds, was that of a future champion.
Stoner cannot wait to resume the tussle at a circuit where Rossi is an acknowledged master.
He said: "I always enjoy going back to England because that's where it all started and I have many friends and some great memories.
"The season has been fantastic and just could not have been better.
"Of course, it will be tough at Donington but the Ducati should be great there. I've never done that well at Donington previously and there would be no better time to put that right."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:52:28
Derby Cathedral dig
Remnants of historic buildings that once stood on the site of Derby's Silk Mill have been unearthed.
Archaeologists dug nine trenches in the Cathedral Green and found evidence of a doubling shop that fell down around 1890. Its job was to make the silk thread, produced in the mill, broader so it was ready for weaving.
Steve Baker, of archaeology consultants Arcus who carried out the dig, said: "The doubling shop was a long building which was as tall as the Silk Mill building we see today. The remains were quite well preserved and as well as brickwork from the walls we also found evidence of the flooring.
"We found everything we were looking for, so we were pleased with the way the dig went."
Archaeologists have finished digging and have compiled a list of their finds.
They also uncovered the original course of the mill race that carried the water to turn the Silk Mill wheel. Its man-made channel had been filled in with rubble.
A keystone from a bridge that spanned the mill stream was also found. The bridge was built around 1720 and excavations near the Silk Mill also revealed brick arches.
Hopes of finding anything from other trenches were spoiled by building rubble from a power station that used to stand on the site.
Alf Bousie, the city council's principal landscape assistant, said the digs were carried out to unearth information that could be incorporated into designs for the Cathedral Green development. A water feature, seating and sunken lighting are among the £3.8m plans.
Mr Bousie said: "All this work has been documented and we will now discuss with the contractor how we are going to represent these findings in the final landscaping."
An announcement on which company has been awarded the contract for the work is imminent.
Initial ideas on how to represent the findings from the dig include making the new bubbling water feature follow the line of the original mill race and installing etched stones where the footings for the doubling shop stood.
The principle for the design for Cathedral Green followed work carried out by urban regeneration company Derby Cityscape. Objections were raised about plans for an outdoor entertainment area and a bridge over the River Derwent but they were approved by Derby City Council's cabinet at the end of last month.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:45:56
Archaeologists dug nine trenches in the Cathedral Green and found evidence of a doubling shop that fell down around 1890. Its job was to make the silk thread, produced in the mill, broader so it was ready for weaving.
Steve Baker, of archaeology consultants Arcus who carried out the dig, said: "The doubling shop was a long building which was as tall as the Silk Mill building we see today. The remains were quite well preserved and as well as brickwork from the walls we also found evidence of the flooring.
"We found everything we were looking for, so we were pleased with the way the dig went."
Archaeologists have finished digging and have compiled a list of their finds.
They also uncovered the original course of the mill race that carried the water to turn the Silk Mill wheel. Its man-made channel had been filled in with rubble.
A keystone from a bridge that spanned the mill stream was also found. The bridge was built around 1720 and excavations near the Silk Mill also revealed brick arches.
Hopes of finding anything from other trenches were spoiled by building rubble from a power station that used to stand on the site.
Alf Bousie, the city council's principal landscape assistant, said the digs were carried out to unearth information that could be incorporated into designs for the Cathedral Green development. A water feature, seating and sunken lighting are among the £3.8m plans.
Mr Bousie said: "All this work has been documented and we will now discuss with the contractor how we are going to represent these findings in the final landscaping."
An announcement on which company has been awarded the contract for the work is imminent.
Initial ideas on how to represent the findings from the dig include making the new bubbling water feature follow the line of the original mill race and installing etched stones where the footings for the doubling shop stood.
The principle for the design for Cathedral Green followed work carried out by urban regeneration company Derby Cityscape. Objections were raised about plans for an outdoor entertainment area and a bridge over the River Derwent but they were approved by Derby City Council's cabinet at the end of last month.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:45:56
Derby teen booze sting results
Eighteen out of 20 licensed premises in Derby city centre served alcohol to underage children in an undercover police sting.
Youngsters, who were 16 and under, were sent into bars, clubs and off-licences to try to buy alcohol.
But 90 per cent failed to ask the children for proof of their age and served them drinks.
The 17 staff were given £80 fixed penalty notices and one has been issued with a court summons.
Sergeant Katie Hobbs, Derby licensing officer, said she was disappointed with the results of the operation.
She said: "We had been quite clear and quite open about what we were going to do and they knew that the operation was going to take place. We don't ask the child volunteers to make themselves up to look older, that is not part of the scheme. We don't want it to be deceiving."
She said police were working closely with licensees to reduce drinking in the city among under-18s.
Derby City Pubwatch, which is made up of licensees and aims to encourage safe social drinking, has been made aware of the results. Pubwatch deputy chairman Craig Sharp-Weir said he was surprised because bars and clubs had been trying hard to combat underage drinking.
This is the second time an operation like this has been carried out by police. In April, youngsters were sent into 24 city venues, with 11 failing the test.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:43:18
Youngsters, who were 16 and under, were sent into bars, clubs and off-licences to try to buy alcohol.
But 90 per cent failed to ask the children for proof of their age and served them drinks.
The 17 staff were given £80 fixed penalty notices and one has been issued with a court summons.
Sergeant Katie Hobbs, Derby licensing officer, said she was disappointed with the results of the operation.
She said: "We had been quite clear and quite open about what we were going to do and they knew that the operation was going to take place. We don't ask the child volunteers to make themselves up to look older, that is not part of the scheme. We don't want it to be deceiving."
She said police were working closely with licensees to reduce drinking in the city among under-18s.
Derby City Pubwatch, which is made up of licensees and aims to encourage safe social drinking, has been made aware of the results. Pubwatch deputy chairman Craig Sharp-Weir said he was surprised because bars and clubs had been trying hard to combat underage drinking.
This is the second time an operation like this has been carried out by police. In April, youngsters were sent into 24 city venues, with 11 failing the test.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:43:18
Insurer calls for action on UK's most dangerous roads
yesinsurance.co.uk is calling for action to reduce the risks posed by the UK's most dangerous roads, such as the A682 in Yorkshire, the A54 in Derbyshire, and the A84 in Scotland.
The installation of crash barriers and realignment of junctions, combined with improvements in traffic signing and white-lining, are identified by the insurance provider as the most beneficial improvements that can be made to high-risk stretches of road.
EuroRAP, the European Road Assessment Programme, identifies the UK's three most dangerous roads as:
-A682: identified as the most dangerous road in Britain. From junction 13 on the M65 to the A65 at Long Preston, North Yorkshire, there were 27 fatal/serious collisions on this 24 km stretch of the A682 during the survey period (2001-3).
-A54: From Congleton in Cheshire to Buxton, Derbyshire, there were 20 fatal/serious collisions on this 24 km stretch of road.
-A84: From junction 10 on the M9 to Lochearnhead in Scotland there were 29 fatal/serious collisions on this 44km stretch of the A84.
Others in the list of the highest risk roads were: the A59 Skipton to Harrogate road in Yorkshire; the A53 from Leek in Staffordshire to Buxton, Derbyshire; the A62 from Oldham to Huddersfield; the A44 from Leominster to Worcester; the A65 from Long Preston to junction 36 on the M6; and the A631 from Gainsborough to the A1103.
"The EuroRAP survey is the most accurate guide to the safety of roads in the UK, because it takes into account the amount of traffic travelling on each road, rather than being simply based on the number of accidents," said Paul Purdy of yesinsurance.co.uk.
Full details of the EuroRAP survey can be found at http://217.174.251.13/. The website also contains a search engine which enables you to look up the EuroRAP risk ratings for individual roads in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, Spain and Switzerland.
"Single carriageway roads in rural, often hilly, areas, tend to be among the most dangerous sections of road in the UK, and the risk is generally higher if the road is in or on the way to attractive destinations such as national parks," said Paul Purdy.
"Conversely, the safest roads in the UK are typically motorways," he said.
Despite increasing levels of traffic, road deaths in Great Britain have gradually fallen from their peak of 7,985 in 1966, to 3,201 in 2005. Measures such as changing attitudes to drink-driving and the introduction of seat belts, together with advances in car technology, have helped to bring this about.
"In our view, we are now at the point where the greatest and least expensive benefits to road safety can be achieved through better layout and signing of roads, together with improvements in the use of crash barriers," said Paul Purdy.
The insurer, which provides both car insurance and van insurance via its website www.yesinsurance.co.uk, says that Britain's drivers are among the safest in the world.
Latest OECD figures (surveyed in 2004) show that Great Britain was the country with the third lowest accident rates, with a rate of 5.5 deaths on the road per 100,000 of population - very close to the rates of 5.3 in Sweden and 4.9 in the Netherlands.
By comparison, the rate in the USA was a staggering 14.5 deaths per 100,000 of population. In Europe, Poland was the worst offender, with a rate of 15.0 - very similar to that of the USA. Portugal had a rate of 12.3, Spain 11.0, Italy 9.7, France 9.2, and Germany 7.1.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:24:07
The installation of crash barriers and realignment of junctions, combined with improvements in traffic signing and white-lining, are identified by the insurance provider as the most beneficial improvements that can be made to high-risk stretches of road.
EuroRAP, the European Road Assessment Programme, identifies the UK's three most dangerous roads as:
-A682: identified as the most dangerous road in Britain. From junction 13 on the M65 to the A65 at Long Preston, North Yorkshire, there were 27 fatal/serious collisions on this 24 km stretch of the A682 during the survey period (2001-3).
-A54: From Congleton in Cheshire to Buxton, Derbyshire, there were 20 fatal/serious collisions on this 24 km stretch of road.
-A84: From junction 10 on the M9 to Lochearnhead in Scotland there were 29 fatal/serious collisions on this 44km stretch of the A84.
Others in the list of the highest risk roads were: the A59 Skipton to Harrogate road in Yorkshire; the A53 from Leek in Staffordshire to Buxton, Derbyshire; the A62 from Oldham to Huddersfield; the A44 from Leominster to Worcester; the A65 from Long Preston to junction 36 on the M6; and the A631 from Gainsborough to the A1103.
"The EuroRAP survey is the most accurate guide to the safety of roads in the UK, because it takes into account the amount of traffic travelling on each road, rather than being simply based on the number of accidents," said Paul Purdy of yesinsurance.co.uk.
Full details of the EuroRAP survey can be found at http://217.174.251.13/. The website also contains a search engine which enables you to look up the EuroRAP risk ratings for individual roads in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, Spain and Switzerland.
"Single carriageway roads in rural, often hilly, areas, tend to be among the most dangerous sections of road in the UK, and the risk is generally higher if the road is in or on the way to attractive destinations such as national parks," said Paul Purdy.
"Conversely, the safest roads in the UK are typically motorways," he said.
Despite increasing levels of traffic, road deaths in Great Britain have gradually fallen from their peak of 7,985 in 1966, to 3,201 in 2005. Measures such as changing attitudes to drink-driving and the introduction of seat belts, together with advances in car technology, have helped to bring this about.
"In our view, we are now at the point where the greatest and least expensive benefits to road safety can be achieved through better layout and signing of roads, together with improvements in the use of crash barriers," said Paul Purdy.
The insurer, which provides both car insurance and van insurance via its website www.yesinsurance.co.uk, says that Britain's drivers are among the safest in the world.
Latest OECD figures (surveyed in 2004) show that Great Britain was the country with the third lowest accident rates, with a rate of 5.5 deaths on the road per 100,000 of population - very close to the rates of 5.3 in Sweden and 4.9 in the Netherlands.
By comparison, the rate in the USA was a staggering 14.5 deaths per 100,000 of population. In Europe, Poland was the worst offender, with a rate of 15.0 - very similar to that of the USA. Portugal had a rate of 12.3, Spain 11.0, Italy 9.7, France 9.2, and Germany 7.1.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:24:07
Derbyshire v Nottinghamshire
Nottinghamshire repeated last season's Twenty20 Cup win at Derbyshire with an impressive six-wicket victory at the County Ground with 10 balls to spare.
Last year's beaten finalists had a scare chasing the Phantoms' total of 148 when they lost two wickets in three balls but an unbeaten half-century from Samit Patel made sure they started this season's campaign in style.
The home side had been well placed at one stage but fell away against some clever bowling on a slow pitch to lose their last eight wickets for 59 runs.
Gareth Clough's medium pace brought him four for 24 from his four overs while Graeme Swann's spin earned two victims, including the prize one of Simon Katich.
The Outlaws were pegged back when Stephen Fleming and David Hussey fell to Kevin Dean to leave the visitors struggling on 51 for three but Patel and Will Jefferson tilted the game back in their favour.
Derbyshire had threatened to set a more demanding target after Michael Dighton, making his debut, took three fours from Mark Ealham's opening over before the all-rounder had the Tasmanian taken at second slip.
Katich and Travis Birt were starting to take control with a stand of 56 in six overs but Hussey held a fine running catch at long-off to remove Birt for 30 and then took another well-judged catch to dismiss Katich for 30 in the next over.
The Phantoms crumbled under pressure with three wickets falling in three balls, including a run-out, in Clough's final over and the innings ended when Graham Wagg pulled a full toss from Ealham to mid-on.
Nottinghamshire lost Swann for 14 in the fourth over when he hit across the line at Tom Lungley and the game was wide open when Dean struck twice in his second over.
First Fleming was caught behind trying to run the ball through the slips and then the dangerous Hussey was superbly stumped by Jamie Pipe standing up for a duck.
But Patel paced his innings shrewdly and made Derbyshire pay for Pipe's missed stumping chance when he had made 18 in the 11th over.
He lifted Ant Botha over long-on and with Jefferson, added 54 in seven overs before Jefferson skied Ian Hunter to third man.
Patel reached his 50 from 43 balls and the home side knew the game had gone before Chris Read pulled Dean for the winning boundary in the penultimate over.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:21:41
Last year's beaten finalists had a scare chasing the Phantoms' total of 148 when they lost two wickets in three balls but an unbeaten half-century from Samit Patel made sure they started this season's campaign in style.
The home side had been well placed at one stage but fell away against some clever bowling on a slow pitch to lose their last eight wickets for 59 runs.
Gareth Clough's medium pace brought him four for 24 from his four overs while Graeme Swann's spin earned two victims, including the prize one of Simon Katich.
The Outlaws were pegged back when Stephen Fleming and David Hussey fell to Kevin Dean to leave the visitors struggling on 51 for three but Patel and Will Jefferson tilted the game back in their favour.
Derbyshire had threatened to set a more demanding target after Michael Dighton, making his debut, took three fours from Mark Ealham's opening over before the all-rounder had the Tasmanian taken at second slip.
Katich and Travis Birt were starting to take control with a stand of 56 in six overs but Hussey held a fine running catch at long-off to remove Birt for 30 and then took another well-judged catch to dismiss Katich for 30 in the next over.
The Phantoms crumbled under pressure with three wickets falling in three balls, including a run-out, in Clough's final over and the innings ended when Graham Wagg pulled a full toss from Ealham to mid-on.
Nottinghamshire lost Swann for 14 in the fourth over when he hit across the line at Tom Lungley and the game was wide open when Dean struck twice in his second over.
First Fleming was caught behind trying to run the ball through the slips and then the dangerous Hussey was superbly stumped by Jamie Pipe standing up for a duck.
But Patel paced his innings shrewdly and made Derbyshire pay for Pipe's missed stumping chance when he had made 18 in the 11th over.
He lifted Ant Botha over long-on and with Jefferson, added 54 in seven overs before Jefferson skied Ian Hunter to third man.
Patel reached his 50 from 43 balls and the home side knew the game had gone before Chris Read pulled Dean for the winning boundary in the penultimate over.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-23 03:21:41
National Parks Conference
"National Parks: the next ten years"
Wednesday 19 September - Friday 21 September 2007
Palace Hotel, Buxton
The conference will focus on the key issues facing Britain's National Parks as they strive to achieve their environmental goals over the coming decade - from climate change, recreation and access to the future of government policy and the increasing importance of engagement with communities and partnerships.
The conference will feature high profile speakers from the worlds of the environment, politics and the media, and delegates will explore the issues through a choice of stimulating workshops and site visits. The conference takes place in the stunning and iconic Peak District National Park, at the heart of the UK, which benefits from excellent transport links.Conference details and booking information
Wednesday 19 September - Friday 21 September 2007
Palace Hotel, Buxton
The conference will focus on the key issues facing Britain's National Parks as they strive to achieve their environmental goals over the coming decade - from climate change, recreation and access to the future of government policy and the increasing importance of engagement with communities and partnerships.
The conference will feature high profile speakers from the worlds of the environment, politics and the media, and delegates will explore the issues through a choice of stimulating workshops and site visits. The conference takes place in the stunning and iconic Peak District National Park, at the heart of the UK, which benefits from excellent transport links.Conference details and booking information
England cricket one-day match at Derbyshire
Fans of international cricket should head for Derbyshire County Cricket Club in August for the NatWest Women's International Series, where England will be challenging their New Zealand opponents to 'bring it on'!
The one-day match at the county ground is one of six in the series - the teams will also compete in three NatWest women's international Twenty20 matches.
England head coach Richard Bates said: "This is a really important series for us as it will give us a great indication of where we stand against the other top teams and will be great practice with the World Cup just two years away.
"One-day cricket is the most important format in the women's game as it is how we are ranked, so we have picked a squad geared towards that format.
The floodlit match at Derbyshire CCC starts at 2.30pm on August 23 - for more details visit the English Cricket Board website at www.ecb.co.uk
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-22 04:08:40
The one-day match at the county ground is one of six in the series - the teams will also compete in three NatWest women's international Twenty20 matches.
England head coach Richard Bates said: "This is a really important series for us as it will give us a great indication of where we stand against the other top teams and will be great practice with the World Cup just two years away.
"One-day cricket is the most important format in the women's game as it is how we are ranked, so we have picked a squad geared towards that format.
The floodlit match at Derbyshire CCC starts at 2.30pm on August 23 - for more details visit the English Cricket Board website at www.ecb.co.uk
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-06-22 04:08:40
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