Police are clamping down on drunken yobs in the Peak District over the festive season by arming patrols with booze-testing kits.
Derbyshire Dales and High Peak beat bobbies and police community support officers will be targeting youngsters' favourite street hang-outs to test anyone suspected of underage drinking in public.
Insp Tony Dales said: "We're concerned about youngsters lacing their own soft drinks and cans of pop with alcohol and the effects this can have on causing anti-social behaviour and disturbances over the festive season.
"So these special testing kits will help police easily identify any potential problems and allow officers to discuss any findings with parents or any off-licences which may have illegally sold alcohol to an under-age drinker."
The kits include special strips of white card which can be inserted into suspect drinks and if there are any traces of alcohol the strip will change colour.
Strips which turn green indicate a small trace of alcohol present, blue indicates a larger amount and brown indicates an excessive amount of booze which may warrant serious action.
Police will have the right to confiscate or dispose any laced drinks, make arrests for any related public order offences and make arrangements to contact parents or off-licences to establish how the youngsters concerned obtained alcohol.
Insp Dales added: "We're urging mums and dads to be vigilant because some youngsters may raid cabinets over Christmas and take alcohol with them and we aim to talk to parents of any youngsters found to have been under-age drinking."
Police hope the patrols and tests will also deter youngsters from under-age boozing on street corners.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-30 15:38:25
Friday, November 30, 2007
Resident's fears over 24-hour drinking bid
Plans to turn two youth hostels into 24-hour drinking premises have concerned residents, who say it could increase problems with noise in their quiet villages.
The Youth Hostel Association has applied for the new licences for their buildings in Fountain Square, Youlgreave, and Hawkhill Road, in Eyam.
But residents have objected to the plans because they are worried it will encourage more people to party until the early hours of the morning.
Steven Newhouse, who lives next door to the youth hostel in Fountain Square, said: “Naturally we are very concerned that the proposed regular noise, drinking and music between 11pm and 5am will affect our sleep.”
He added that he was concerned about the extension of hours as people may spill out on to the forecourt of the hostel, which is below his bedroom window.
He said: “We support the YHA but not this proposed extension of noise all night long.”
Other concerns which have been raised include more people spending time outside smoking late into the night.
Youlgreave Youth Hostel currently sells alcohol between 11am and 11pm Monday to Saturday and from midday to 10.30pm on Sundays.
It is already allowed to put on entertainment or late night refreshments.
Eyam Youth Hostel has a licence to sell alcohol between 11am and midnight Monday to Saturday and from Midday to 11.30pm on Sundays.
The new licence would permit 24-hour drinking, with a restriction that no activities would be provided between 11pm and 10am other than for residents and guest.
The application has been made to Derbyshire Dales District Council as part of a change to all youth hostels owned by the association.
It is hoped a new licence will allow them to stage events with live music and dancing and to put themselves forward as venues for private parties.
A decision on both of the applications was due to be made at meeting of the licensing sub-committee yesterday.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-30 15:35:40
The Youth Hostel Association has applied for the new licences for their buildings in Fountain Square, Youlgreave, and Hawkhill Road, in Eyam.
But residents have objected to the plans because they are worried it will encourage more people to party until the early hours of the morning.
Steven Newhouse, who lives next door to the youth hostel in Fountain Square, said: “Naturally we are very concerned that the proposed regular noise, drinking and music between 11pm and 5am will affect our sleep.”
He added that he was concerned about the extension of hours as people may spill out on to the forecourt of the hostel, which is below his bedroom window.
He said: “We support the YHA but not this proposed extension of noise all night long.”
Other concerns which have been raised include more people spending time outside smoking late into the night.
Youlgreave Youth Hostel currently sells alcohol between 11am and 11pm Monday to Saturday and from midday to 10.30pm on Sundays.
It is already allowed to put on entertainment or late night refreshments.
Eyam Youth Hostel has a licence to sell alcohol between 11am and midnight Monday to Saturday and from Midday to 11.30pm on Sundays.
The new licence would permit 24-hour drinking, with a restriction that no activities would be provided between 11pm and 10am other than for residents and guest.
The application has been made to Derbyshire Dales District Council as part of a change to all youth hostels owned by the association.
It is hoped a new licence will allow them to stage events with live music and dancing and to put themselves forward as venues for private parties.
A decision on both of the applications was due to be made at meeting of the licensing sub-committee yesterday.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-30 15:35:40
Derby City Parking Costs Going Up
The cost of car parking is set to rise across Derby City Council car parks.
Prices for pay and display, on-street and multi-storey parking will go up by about nine per cent but some will soar by 25 per cent.
Changes in the daytime tariffs will be introduced to car parks and pay and display car parks will have their evening tariffs changed.
The cheaper evening rate in these car parks currently starts at 6pm, but under the new parking charges, people would pay the daytime rate until 8pm, after which parking would be free.
Free parking at on-street sites controlled by pay and display machines would also only apply after 8pm, instead of after 6pm as it currently does.
The changes have been agreed by the council's cabinet and will come in from January.
Councillor Ranjit Banwait, cabinet member for transportation and highways, said the changes would make parking charges more consistent.
"We have not increased charges for nearly two years," he said.
"This is about rationalising the parking tariffs. We got a lot of feedback saying the two different tariffs were confusing so this should alleviate that."
The new pay and display bays will be created around Keble Close, Sidney Street and Barlow Street, near Derbyshire Royal Infirmary and aim to control parking in areas where there are currently no restrictions.
Others will be created in the Bridge Street, Great Northern Road, City Hospital, Littleover district centre and Vernon Street areas.
On-street parking will go up 10p to £1.40 an hour and motorists will be charged until 8pm rather than the present 6pm.
At the short stay car parks in Ford Street, Little City, Liversage Street, Sacheverel Street and Wilmot Street, the cost of an hour's parking will go from £1.10 to £1.20.
People will be charged to park there until 8pm on the usual day rate but the previous evening charge of 80p has been scrapped.
Multi-storey car parks will still have different daytime and evening rates but their prices will also go up.
For example, the cost of parking for two hours at Chapel Street will go up from £1.60 to £1.70.
The changes are expected to bring the council £357,000 in a year. Parking attendants will cover the later operating times.
Talk about the slow death of a city centre. Congestion charges, buses that can not afford to subsidise OAPs and now this.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-30 14:47:17
Prices for pay and display, on-street and multi-storey parking will go up by about nine per cent but some will soar by 25 per cent.
Changes in the daytime tariffs will be introduced to car parks and pay and display car parks will have their evening tariffs changed.
The cheaper evening rate in these car parks currently starts at 6pm, but under the new parking charges, people would pay the daytime rate until 8pm, after which parking would be free.
Free parking at on-street sites controlled by pay and display machines would also only apply after 8pm, instead of after 6pm as it currently does.
The changes have been agreed by the council's cabinet and will come in from January.
Councillor Ranjit Banwait, cabinet member for transportation and highways, said the changes would make parking charges more consistent.
"We have not increased charges for nearly two years," he said.
"This is about rationalising the parking tariffs. We got a lot of feedback saying the two different tariffs were confusing so this should alleviate that."
The new pay and display bays will be created around Keble Close, Sidney Street and Barlow Street, near Derbyshire Royal Infirmary and aim to control parking in areas where there are currently no restrictions.
Others will be created in the Bridge Street, Great Northern Road, City Hospital, Littleover district centre and Vernon Street areas.
On-street parking will go up 10p to £1.40 an hour and motorists will be charged until 8pm rather than the present 6pm.
At the short stay car parks in Ford Street, Little City, Liversage Street, Sacheverel Street and Wilmot Street, the cost of an hour's parking will go from £1.10 to £1.20.
People will be charged to park there until 8pm on the usual day rate but the previous evening charge of 80p has been scrapped.
Multi-storey car parks will still have different daytime and evening rates but their prices will also go up.
For example, the cost of parking for two hours at Chapel Street will go up from £1.60 to £1.70.
The changes are expected to bring the council £357,000 in a year. Parking attendants will cover the later operating times.
Talk about the slow death of a city centre. Congestion charges, buses that can not afford to subsidise OAPs and now this.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-30 14:47:17
Last Act at the Playhouse
Derby Playhouse defied the liquidators to stage a final performance last night - only hours after being told to close its doors for good.
At 3pm yesterday, the board of trustees took the theatre into voluntary liquidation after a last-ditch rescue package, which had seen the Playhouse's joint artistic director, Stephen Edwards, offer £282,000 of his own cash to save the theatre, had been rejected.
But despite being told that they no longer had jobs, the entire cast, crew and staff at the Playhouse defied orders to shut up shop and staged one last, emotional performance of their Christmas show, Treasure Island.
After the show, the Playhouse's chief executive, Karen Hebden, urged the people of Derby to take up the fight to keep a theatre in the city.
And former Playhouse chairman Jonathan Powers revealed that Mr Edwards had put £70,000 of his own cash into the theatre at the last moment - £40,000 of which will pay staff wages.
The board of trustees had not wanted last night's performance to take place but secretary Roger Patten said: "The performance was not authorised by the board but we couldn't take any action practically to stop it."
So, more than 500 theatre-goers, some with tickets, many without, some sitting or standing in the aisles, saw Derbyshire actor Ben Roberts and Playhouse favourite Glyn Kerslake lead the cast in a final rousing performance.
It received a standing ovation and afterwards the entire staff joined the cast on stage, along with three former chairmen of the board, Mr Edwards and Ms Hebden.
Ms Hebden said: "This performance took place against the wishes of the board of trustees. Stephen and I have been fighting for the survival of this theatre since 2002. This theatre does not deserve to close.
"We have done all we can but tonight we are handing over the fight to you, the people of Derby. We are asking, you, your friends, your family, your colleagues to ask the city council what are they going to do? On behalf of everybody on this stage I have to say we don't deserve it, you don't deserve it. The fight now is yours."
Chris Sabian,Peak District View - 2007-11-30 14:28:56
At 3pm yesterday, the board of trustees took the theatre into voluntary liquidation after a last-ditch rescue package, which had seen the Playhouse's joint artistic director, Stephen Edwards, offer £282,000 of his own cash to save the theatre, had been rejected.
But despite being told that they no longer had jobs, the entire cast, crew and staff at the Playhouse defied orders to shut up shop and staged one last, emotional performance of their Christmas show, Treasure Island.
After the show, the Playhouse's chief executive, Karen Hebden, urged the people of Derby to take up the fight to keep a theatre in the city.
And former Playhouse chairman Jonathan Powers revealed that Mr Edwards had put £70,000 of his own cash into the theatre at the last moment - £40,000 of which will pay staff wages.
The board of trustees had not wanted last night's performance to take place but secretary Roger Patten said: "The performance was not authorised by the board but we couldn't take any action practically to stop it."
So, more than 500 theatre-goers, some with tickets, many without, some sitting or standing in the aisles, saw Derbyshire actor Ben Roberts and Playhouse favourite Glyn Kerslake lead the cast in a final rousing performance.
It received a standing ovation and afterwards the entire staff joined the cast on stage, along with three former chairmen of the board, Mr Edwards and Ms Hebden.
Ms Hebden said: "This performance took place against the wishes of the board of trustees. Stephen and I have been fighting for the survival of this theatre since 2002. This theatre does not deserve to close.
"We have done all we can but tonight we are handing over the fight to you, the people of Derby. We are asking, you, your friends, your family, your colleagues to ask the city council what are they going to do? On behalf of everybody on this stage I have to say we don't deserve it, you don't deserve it. The fight now is yours."
Chris Sabian,Peak District View - 2007-11-30 14:28:56
Matlock gets ready for a fun weekend
Matlock's popular Victorian Market returns this weekend for three full days of festive delights.
Hall Leys Park is set to become the focal point for the Christmas celebration which will include entertainment, stalls, a children’s reindeer ride and a magnificent firework finale.
The market’s coolest attraction yet is an artificial ice rink will be open to the public.
Around 200 stalls including continental, crafts, traditional English and farmers markets will be available to purchase seasonal gifts.
BBC Radio Derby presenter and Matlock Bath resident, Aleena Naylor, will be switching-on Matlock's Christmas Lights on Saturday afternoon, when she will ride through the streets of Matlock in a horse drawn carriage provided by the Red House Stables of Darley Dale, along with Father Christmas.
The Christmas weekend and market takes place from tomorrow until Sunday. The lights will be switched on the Christmas from the bandstand in Hall Leys Park at 4.30 pm
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:17:00
Hall Leys Park is set to become the focal point for the Christmas celebration which will include entertainment, stalls, a children’s reindeer ride and a magnificent firework finale.
The market’s coolest attraction yet is an artificial ice rink will be open to the public.
Around 200 stalls including continental, crafts, traditional English and farmers markets will be available to purchase seasonal gifts.
BBC Radio Derby presenter and Matlock Bath resident, Aleena Naylor, will be switching-on Matlock's Christmas Lights on Saturday afternoon, when she will ride through the streets of Matlock in a horse drawn carriage provided by the Red House Stables of Darley Dale, along with Father Christmas.
The Christmas weekend and market takes place from tomorrow until Sunday. The lights will be switched on the Christmas from the bandstand in Hall Leys Park at 4.30 pm
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:17:00
New chapter for district's lost landmarks
Lost buildings in the Peak District have been brought back to life in a new book.
Author Lindsey Porter has put together the publication consisting of 228 photographs and drawings of buildings around Matlock which have been demolished or altered, including Matlock Bath station, Bakewell cinema and Carsington windmill.
Buildings which have changed use such as Matlock cinema are also included.
The book records the factories, pubs and large country houses which have quietly disappeared into the landscape and magnificent lost hotels such as The Royal at Matlock Bath, reflecting a demand lost during the Great War.
Local historian Lindsey hopes his book will stimulate more research and highlight what else could be lost if we are not careful.
He said: "I started to think about the changes in the Peak District and about how many buildings had been lost and I decided to bring the collection together.
"As a historian I am interested in not only where we have come from but what we have left behind for future generations. It is quite interesting to see the comparisons and sow seeds in people's minds when we talk about whether buildings should be pulled down."
Lindsey said he was interested in how many buildings had been used for other purposes.
He added: "They show how buildings contribute to the history of the area. Things move on and we have to accept that but we ought to decide whether we are going to keep them or let them go for a new development because once they are gone they are gone forever."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:09:35
Author Lindsey Porter has put together the publication consisting of 228 photographs and drawings of buildings around Matlock which have been demolished or altered, including Matlock Bath station, Bakewell cinema and Carsington windmill.
Buildings which have changed use such as Matlock cinema are also included.
The book records the factories, pubs and large country houses which have quietly disappeared into the landscape and magnificent lost hotels such as The Royal at Matlock Bath, reflecting a demand lost during the Great War.
Local historian Lindsey hopes his book will stimulate more research and highlight what else could be lost if we are not careful.
He said: "I started to think about the changes in the Peak District and about how many buildings had been lost and I decided to bring the collection together.
"As a historian I am interested in not only where we have come from but what we have left behind for future generations. It is quite interesting to see the comparisons and sow seeds in people's minds when we talk about whether buildings should be pulled down."
Lindsey said he was interested in how many buildings had been used for other purposes.
He added: "They show how buildings contribute to the history of the area. Things move on and we have to accept that but we ought to decide whether we are going to keep them or let them go for a new development because once they are gone they are gone forever."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:09:35
Work on track for station revamp
Work is set to begin on Cromford's derelict railway station as part of a £263,000 revamp.
The Arkwright Society has had the go ahead to start alterations next week to turn the listed building into office space.
The condition of the 'at risk' building – which was last used as a scout hostel – has declined over the past two decades prompting the society to act and restore it.
Director Dr Christopher Charlton said the regeneration work, which is expected to take about a year, marked a huge step forward for the project, after it has been tied up with funding negotiations since January.
He said: "There is a lot to do. We will return the lay out of the station to its original features.
"We are very concerned to use original materials and essentially put it back to use in its traditional form."
He added that a new floor would need to be laid as well as repairing serious problems with parts of the roof, where stone had been pushed out of place.
The building will initially be used as office space then as a world heritage site portal, housing exhibitions and information for visitors arriving by train.
The plans will help meet Derwent Valley Rural Transport aims to regenerate local stations on the Derwent Valley Line between Matlock and Derby.
Dr Charlton, said: "It seems an ideal project. We are saving a piece of otherwise deteriorating world heritage and also creating jobs, new opportunities with office space and heritage regeneration."
The society secured significant funding from Railways Heritage Trust, hired architects and commissioned a study of how the building could be used.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:08:17
The Arkwright Society has had the go ahead to start alterations next week to turn the listed building into office space.
The condition of the 'at risk' building – which was last used as a scout hostel – has declined over the past two decades prompting the society to act and restore it.
Director Dr Christopher Charlton said the regeneration work, which is expected to take about a year, marked a huge step forward for the project, after it has been tied up with funding negotiations since January.
He said: "There is a lot to do. We will return the lay out of the station to its original features.
"We are very concerned to use original materials and essentially put it back to use in its traditional form."
He added that a new floor would need to be laid as well as repairing serious problems with parts of the roof, where stone had been pushed out of place.
The building will initially be used as office space then as a world heritage site portal, housing exhibitions and information for visitors arriving by train.
The plans will help meet Derwent Valley Rural Transport aims to regenerate local stations on the Derwent Valley Line between Matlock and Derby.
Dr Charlton, said: "It seems an ideal project. We are saving a piece of otherwise deteriorating world heritage and also creating jobs, new opportunities with office space and heritage regeneration."
The society secured significant funding from Railways Heritage Trust, hired architects and commissioned a study of how the building could be used.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:08:17
Store powers in to boost wind energy
A top outdoor shop in the Peak District has signed up to a green power scheme to boost funding for wind power.
The Outside shop in Hathersage has joined 24 major retailers making an eco-conscious choice to support wind power.
The store will be investing in renewable power by donating money for every unit of energy it uses to fund more wind farms and pay for them to be run.
Climbing brand PrAna, which is sold at Outside, is expanding the wind power initiative.
It is working with stores to look at new ways to use sustainable materials and practices in their work and reduce the impact on soils, water supplies and other natural resources.
PrAna became an ambassador for wind generated power and as a member of the Organic Trade Association, is continually increasing the use of organic cotton, as well as sourcing other natural fibers and recycled materials.
Outside Director, Fran Beardon, said: “As a retailer of outdoor products with a business in the Peak District we are very much in favour of supporting the environment.
“Most of our customers and staff enjoy making use of the valuable resources this area has to offer and this is a way we can make a positive impact.
Fran said that Outside would give an audit of their electrical consumption for the year to PrAna and they would offset it with wind power to the same amount.
He added: “It is about building awareness of ways we can reduce our carbon footprint.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:06:56
The Outside shop in Hathersage has joined 24 major retailers making an eco-conscious choice to support wind power.
The store will be investing in renewable power by donating money for every unit of energy it uses to fund more wind farms and pay for them to be run.
Climbing brand PrAna, which is sold at Outside, is expanding the wind power initiative.
It is working with stores to look at new ways to use sustainable materials and practices in their work and reduce the impact on soils, water supplies and other natural resources.
PrAna became an ambassador for wind generated power and as a member of the Organic Trade Association, is continually increasing the use of organic cotton, as well as sourcing other natural fibers and recycled materials.
Outside Director, Fran Beardon, said: “As a retailer of outdoor products with a business in the Peak District we are very much in favour of supporting the environment.
“Most of our customers and staff enjoy making use of the valuable resources this area has to offer and this is a way we can make a positive impact.
Fran said that Outside would give an audit of their electrical consumption for the year to PrAna and they would offset it with wind power to the same amount.
He added: “It is about building awareness of ways we can reduce our carbon footprint.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 16:06:56
Flats scheme for closed youth hostel in Matlock
A Derbyshire youth hostel could be converted to flats.
Stuart Brock has submitted an application to convert Matlock Youth Hostel, in Bank Road, into 10 homes.
The hostel is in the process of closing after it was sold last month.
Because of the extensive investment required to modernise the 19th-century building, the Youth Hostel Association said it was no longer worth the expense.
The application seeks to convert and extend the existing building into seven new apartments and also build a smaller building on the site, in which three further flats will be created.
The plans include 11 parking spaces, but residents raised concerns this will not be enough.
Officers at Derbyshire Dales District Council have recommended that the planning committee approves the application when it meets at Matlock Town Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:46:11
Stuart Brock has submitted an application to convert Matlock Youth Hostel, in Bank Road, into 10 homes.
The hostel is in the process of closing after it was sold last month.
Because of the extensive investment required to modernise the 19th-century building, the Youth Hostel Association said it was no longer worth the expense.
The application seeks to convert and extend the existing building into seven new apartments and also build a smaller building on the site, in which three further flats will be created.
The plans include 11 parking spaces, but residents raised concerns this will not be enough.
Officers at Derbyshire Dales District Council have recommended that the planning committee approves the application when it meets at Matlock Town Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:46:11
Breaking news, 3.10pm: Playhouse closes doors
Derby Playhouse closed its doors at 3.01pm today amid fears surrounding its finances.
It is not yet known whether or not the performance of Treasure Island will go ahead tonight.
The closure follows a week of speculation about whether or not the theatre would go into liquidation.
More news and reaction to follow.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:40:41
It is not yet known whether or not the performance of Treasure Island will go ahead tonight.
The closure follows a week of speculation about whether or not the theatre would go into liquidation.
More news and reaction to follow.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:40:41
Rescue bid for theatre rejected
The Derby Playhouse board has rejected a £282,000 loan offer from its joint artistic director, Stephen Edwards.
The loan was designed to save the cash-strapped theatre from closure - but, for the time being, the "show goes on".
After nine hours of talks over two days, the board of trustees last night finally rejected a rescue package from Mr Edwards that was designed to see the theatre through a "short-term cash crisis".
Acting chairman of the board Richard Hill said: "The board has made no decisions other than to reject Stephen Edwards' extraordinarily generous offer, owing to Derby City Council's objection to the loan being secured against the theatre's lease.
"I plan to meet with the executive of the theatre to discuss options on going forward."
Despite the rejection of the interest-free loan offer, Playhouse chief executive Karen Hebden said: "We look forward to a busy press night for Treasure Island tonight. And it's been encouraging that, following speculation about our future, so many people have chosen to show their support by buying tickets for our Christmas production.
"Many have also called to express concern that their theatre is in danger and to ask how they can help."
Mr Edwards said: "My lawyers and I can see no reason why there can be any objections by the trustees to securing the loan against the lease. The impression I got was that was the only stumbling block. I'm slightly bemused.
"I can see no legal reason why they can't do it, so I'm hoping I can sit down with Richard Hill and he can explain where we're at.
"My door is open and it will remain open. I hope we can still go forward with this. The most important thing is to keep this theatre rolling come what may.
"The theatre was in a much worse position than this when we took over (five years ago). The situation for theatres is always fragile - the important thing is to keep it going.
"We appreciate that the demands on the public purse are always getting harder and arts funding by local authorities is discretionary.
"It's our long-term ambition to set up some kind of endowment facility to make the theatre independent of public funding - because we're all looking down a tunnel of diminishing grants for the arts."
Ms Hebden said that she hoped that the meeting with Mr Hill would help find "a short-term solution until either Mr Edwards' rescue package was accepted or an alternative is found".
She intends to speak directly to the Playhouse audience tonight asking for support.
She said: "The theatre is a national asset. The people of Derby care about it passionately and have continually proved that to us, but it's also part of national theatre culture.
"In the same way as we've spoken to staff here and to the cast and crew of Treasure Island, I think the audiences deserve to hear from us.
"People think they can't do anything but they can do a lot - buy tickets, spend money here and tell the council how important it is to them.
"If they do, then this theatre will still be here. Even small gestures will help."
The city council is one of the Playhouse's two major stakeholders.
Mr Edwards came up with his rescue plan after failing to agree a deal with Derby City Council to bring forward grant funding.
The Playhouse had asked for £140,000 from the Arts Council and the city council to see it through a cash crisis. The Arts Council agreed to make an advance but the council refused.
Clearly councillors are not theatre goers.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:38:26
The loan was designed to save the cash-strapped theatre from closure - but, for the time being, the "show goes on".
After nine hours of talks over two days, the board of trustees last night finally rejected a rescue package from Mr Edwards that was designed to see the theatre through a "short-term cash crisis".
Acting chairman of the board Richard Hill said: "The board has made no decisions other than to reject Stephen Edwards' extraordinarily generous offer, owing to Derby City Council's objection to the loan being secured against the theatre's lease.
"I plan to meet with the executive of the theatre to discuss options on going forward."
Despite the rejection of the interest-free loan offer, Playhouse chief executive Karen Hebden said: "We look forward to a busy press night for Treasure Island tonight. And it's been encouraging that, following speculation about our future, so many people have chosen to show their support by buying tickets for our Christmas production.
"Many have also called to express concern that their theatre is in danger and to ask how they can help."
Mr Edwards said: "My lawyers and I can see no reason why there can be any objections by the trustees to securing the loan against the lease. The impression I got was that was the only stumbling block. I'm slightly bemused.
"I can see no legal reason why they can't do it, so I'm hoping I can sit down with Richard Hill and he can explain where we're at.
"My door is open and it will remain open. I hope we can still go forward with this. The most important thing is to keep this theatre rolling come what may.
"The theatre was in a much worse position than this when we took over (five years ago). The situation for theatres is always fragile - the important thing is to keep it going.
"We appreciate that the demands on the public purse are always getting harder and arts funding by local authorities is discretionary.
"It's our long-term ambition to set up some kind of endowment facility to make the theatre independent of public funding - because we're all looking down a tunnel of diminishing grants for the arts."
Ms Hebden said that she hoped that the meeting with Mr Hill would help find "a short-term solution until either Mr Edwards' rescue package was accepted or an alternative is found".
She intends to speak directly to the Playhouse audience tonight asking for support.
She said: "The theatre is a national asset. The people of Derby care about it passionately and have continually proved that to us, but it's also part of national theatre culture.
"In the same way as we've spoken to staff here and to the cast and crew of Treasure Island, I think the audiences deserve to hear from us.
"People think they can't do anything but they can do a lot - buy tickets, spend money here and tell the council how important it is to them.
"If they do, then this theatre will still be here. Even small gestures will help."
The city council is one of the Playhouse's two major stakeholders.
Mr Edwards came up with his rescue plan after failing to agree a deal with Derby City Council to bring forward grant funding.
The Playhouse had asked for £140,000 from the Arts Council and the city council to see it through a cash crisis. The Arts Council agreed to make an advance but the council refused.
Clearly councillors are not theatre goers.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:38:26
New Report to Protect Derbyshire's Historic Lead Mineshafts
A new report which will help to ensure that Derbyshire's important lead mining history, wildlife and archaeology are protected and secured for future generations was launched on November 28 2007.
'The Guide to Good Practice for the Treatment of Disused Lead Mine Shafts' is a collaborative project produced by English Heritage, Derbyshire County Council, Natural England, Peak District National Park Authority, emda, Derbyshire Caving Association and other key stakeholders.
It is the first report of its type in the country and provides practical advice for landowners, engineers, conservationists and cavers.
Lead has been mined in Derbyshire and the Peak District since at least Roman times and the industry was at its height in the 17th and 18th centuries when the area played a large part in making Britain the largest producer of lead in Europe.
It is thought there are now up to 50,000 disused mine shafts which need to be secured to ensure the safety of people, livestock and other animals – such as rare species of bat, whilst also protecting the archaeological, ecological, geological landscape and recreational value of the shafts.
"Like documents in the landscape, mine shafts hold important clues to the mining techniques of the past and are vital means of access to mines and caves,” explained Jon Humble, English Heritage Inspector of Ancient Monuments.
“Much of this underground world has yet to be explored and read for its archaeological, ecological and geological significance. By treating and maintaining shafts in a sympathetic way we can ensure their remarkable history is secured for many more generations to explore and enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:14:11
'The Guide to Good Practice for the Treatment of Disused Lead Mine Shafts' is a collaborative project produced by English Heritage, Derbyshire County Council, Natural England, Peak District National Park Authority, emda, Derbyshire Caving Association and other key stakeholders.
It is the first report of its type in the country and provides practical advice for landowners, engineers, conservationists and cavers.
Lead has been mined in Derbyshire and the Peak District since at least Roman times and the industry was at its height in the 17th and 18th centuries when the area played a large part in making Britain the largest producer of lead in Europe.
It is thought there are now up to 50,000 disused mine shafts which need to be secured to ensure the safety of people, livestock and other animals – such as rare species of bat, whilst also protecting the archaeological, ecological, geological landscape and recreational value of the shafts.
"Like documents in the landscape, mine shafts hold important clues to the mining techniques of the past and are vital means of access to mines and caves,” explained Jon Humble, English Heritage Inspector of Ancient Monuments.
“Much of this underground world has yet to be explored and read for its archaeological, ecological and geological significance. By treating and maintaining shafts in a sympathetic way we can ensure their remarkable history is secured for many more generations to explore and enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-29 15:14:11
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Jewell in the Rams Crown
New Derby County manager Paul Jewell insisted he would not "wave the white flag" in the club's battle with relegation - but accepts he faces one of the toughest challenges of his career.
Jewell, who left his job as Wigan manager after keeping them up on the final day of last season, was unveiled this morning as Billy Davies's replacement and his first task is to get the Rams off the bottom of the Barclays Premier League.
But despite the side's perilous situation, Jewell insists a first-time return to the Coca-Cola Championship is not a foregone conclusion.
Asked if he could keep the side up this season, he said: "Absolutely. If I don't believe it, if the players don't believe it, if the fans don't believe it we have no chance.
"It's going to be very difficult but I'm not here to wave the white flag. We're not adrift."
"I've taken time out of football to reflect on how I can get better. That time has not just been spent playing golf, I've done a lot of travelling and watched a lot of football.
"We're in a struggling situation but all is not lost and I'm here for the long term to try and get the club strong and upward and in the right direction.
"Every challenge is a big challenge - be it Bradford, Sheffield Wednesday or Wigan but this one really excites me.
"There is a lot of history in this football club but the history doesn't count for a lot these days. I think we can move the club forward."
Jewell insisted he had never had contact with chairman Adam Pearson before a phone call yesterday and was clear that nothing definite had yet been discussed regarding transfers.
That was a major bone of contention during the Davies era but Jewell is wary of overspending in the next transfer window.
"The chairman called me yesterday. It was the first time I've spoken to him ever - despite what people might think.
"People always ask about money but we want to move forward, there will be money available if and when we want to strengthen.
"People talk about the January window but you have to be careful about who you bring in.
"I've watched a lot of matches and there's players I'd like to bring in if and when it is possible.
"Let January look after itself, we're looking now to Sunderland (on Saturday)."
But with the players on a day off today, Jewell will have to wait until tomorrow to work with his new squad.
Jewell added: "I'm looking forward to getting on the training pitch again. Sunderland's another game, a very crucial six-pointer if you like."
Jewell claimed all of the current Derby players would be given an even chance to impress.
He said: "You are starting with a clean piece of paper and it's up to you to prove you are good enough to be in the team.
"As long as players give me 100 per cent, there won't be a problem."
Pearson claimed Jewell was the best candidate to replace Davies.
"Paul is a stand-out candidate with regard to managerial experience in both the Premier League and the Championship," he added.
"But it's the Premier League where we are now and I couldn't think of a better man to lead us into battle. We are delighted Paul is with us to face Sunderland."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-28 13:58:52
Jewell, who left his job as Wigan manager after keeping them up on the final day of last season, was unveiled this morning as Billy Davies's replacement and his first task is to get the Rams off the bottom of the Barclays Premier League.
But despite the side's perilous situation, Jewell insists a first-time return to the Coca-Cola Championship is not a foregone conclusion.
Asked if he could keep the side up this season, he said: "Absolutely. If I don't believe it, if the players don't believe it, if the fans don't believe it we have no chance.
"It's going to be very difficult but I'm not here to wave the white flag. We're not adrift."
"I've taken time out of football to reflect on how I can get better. That time has not just been spent playing golf, I've done a lot of travelling and watched a lot of football.
"We're in a struggling situation but all is not lost and I'm here for the long term to try and get the club strong and upward and in the right direction.
"Every challenge is a big challenge - be it Bradford, Sheffield Wednesday or Wigan but this one really excites me.
"There is a lot of history in this football club but the history doesn't count for a lot these days. I think we can move the club forward."
Jewell insisted he had never had contact with chairman Adam Pearson before a phone call yesterday and was clear that nothing definite had yet been discussed regarding transfers.
That was a major bone of contention during the Davies era but Jewell is wary of overspending in the next transfer window.
"The chairman called me yesterday. It was the first time I've spoken to him ever - despite what people might think.
"People always ask about money but we want to move forward, there will be money available if and when we want to strengthen.
"People talk about the January window but you have to be careful about who you bring in.
"I've watched a lot of matches and there's players I'd like to bring in if and when it is possible.
"Let January look after itself, we're looking now to Sunderland (on Saturday)."
But with the players on a day off today, Jewell will have to wait until tomorrow to work with his new squad.
Jewell added: "I'm looking forward to getting on the training pitch again. Sunderland's another game, a very crucial six-pointer if you like."
Jewell claimed all of the current Derby players would be given an even chance to impress.
He said: "You are starting with a clean piece of paper and it's up to you to prove you are good enough to be in the team.
"As long as players give me 100 per cent, there won't be a problem."
Pearson claimed Jewell was the best candidate to replace Davies.
"Paul is a stand-out candidate with regard to managerial experience in both the Premier League and the Championship," he added.
"But it's the Premier League where we are now and I couldn't think of a better man to lead us into battle. We are delighted Paul is with us to face Sunderland."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-28 13:58:52
Blaze at Hall
About 50 firefighters spent more than five hours tackling a blaze at an historic home in north Derbyshire.
The fire started at Whitwell Hall, near Bolsover, at 10.30pm on Sunday.
Eight crews, including one from Ripley fire station, finally got the flames under control at 3.45am.
No-one was hurt but the fire caused extensive damage to the Elizabethan property's first floor and roof.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has launched an investigation into the cause.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-27 15:32:02
The fire started at Whitwell Hall, near Bolsover, at 10.30pm on Sunday.
Eight crews, including one from Ripley fire station, finally got the flames under control at 3.45am.
No-one was hurt but the fire caused extensive damage to the Elizabethan property's first floor and roof.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has launched an investigation into the cause.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-27 15:32:02
Hundreds of pupils greeted the Earl of Wessex when he visited Repton School today. Attendance was compulsory.
Prince Edward was there to help the school celebrate its 450th anniversary by opening a new art gallery and watching an outdoor display of Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme activities.
Youngsters from St Wystan's School, Repton Primary School and Foremarke Hall were among those waiting to greet the Prince.
His visit comes 50 years after one made by his mother, the Queen, to celebrate the 400th anniversary.
Head teacher Robert Holroyd said: "The school is honoured to receive the Earl of Wessex. We want to give him a glimpse of life at Repton School in the 21st century."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-27 15:24:11
Prince Edward was there to help the school celebrate its 450th anniversary by opening a new art gallery and watching an outdoor display of Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme activities.
Youngsters from St Wystan's School, Repton Primary School and Foremarke Hall were among those waiting to greet the Prince.
His visit comes 50 years after one made by his mother, the Queen, to celebrate the 400th anniversary.
Head teacher Robert Holroyd said: "The school is honoured to receive the Earl of Wessex. We want to give him a glimpse of life at Repton School in the 21st century."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-27 15:24:11
Phone mast guidelines
All phone masts erected in Britain must meet national and international safety guidelines and, according to the Government, do not pose a risk to health.
The World Health Organisation also concluded in a fact sheet published in May 2006 that there was no "convincing scientific evidence that the weak signals from base stations and wireless networks cause adverse health effects."
A National Radiological Protection Board report in January 2005 also said: "Exposure to low-level radio frequency fields may cause a variety of subtle biological effects on cells, animals or human, particularly on brain activity during sleep, but the possibility of exposure causing adverse health effects remains unproven."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-26 14:56:21
The World Health Organisation also concluded in a fact sheet published in May 2006 that there was no "convincing scientific evidence that the weak signals from base stations and wireless networks cause adverse health effects."
A National Radiological Protection Board report in January 2005 also said: "Exposure to low-level radio frequency fields may cause a variety of subtle biological effects on cells, animals or human, particularly on brain activity during sleep, but the possibility of exposure causing adverse health effects remains unproven."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-26 14:56:21
Fears that new hotel will spoil city skyline
Concerns have been raised about the height of a new hotel planned for the centre of Derby.
Eighteen letters of objection have been received by Derby City Council about the plans for an 11-storey Jury's Inn on the former Bridgegate BMW site in King Street.
The 226-bedroom hotel will be 117ft tall, the same height as the nearby St Mary's Church but less than the 212ft Derby Cathedral.
The £25m development includes a casino, bar, restaurant and 89 apartments, which some objectors say could lead to noise problems.
Despite the concerns the scheme is being recommended for approval by planning officers, who say it will "contribute to the skyline between, rather than conflict with" the church towers. The planning report says local residents would not be unduly affected.
Chris Hoben, who lives in nearby St Mary's Court, has suggested delaying a decision on planning permission so more consultation can take place.
He said: "The proposed development is not in keeping with the area and of particular concern is the proposal to build a casino close to places of worship. The hotel is simply too tall where it is situated."
Robert Asham, of Arthur Street, also felt it would be out of keeping. He said: "Standing at the northern gateway to the city centre, it will dominate two of the key structures in the area, St Mary's and Derby Cathedral.
"From the Strutt's Park area, the skyline will be completely altered and the current feature of the two church towers will be lost."
These concerns are echoed by the city's conservation area advisory committee, which said the proposal would be an over-intensive development and of poor quality design.
Several objectors are also worried about car parking as only 65 spaces for residents have been planned.
The application will be considered at Thursday's meeting of the city's planning control committee, in the Council House, Derby, from 6pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-26 14:52:25
Eighteen letters of objection have been received by Derby City Council about the plans for an 11-storey Jury's Inn on the former Bridgegate BMW site in King Street.
The 226-bedroom hotel will be 117ft tall, the same height as the nearby St Mary's Church but less than the 212ft Derby Cathedral.
The £25m development includes a casino, bar, restaurant and 89 apartments, which some objectors say could lead to noise problems.
Despite the concerns the scheme is being recommended for approval by planning officers, who say it will "contribute to the skyline between, rather than conflict with" the church towers. The planning report says local residents would not be unduly affected.
Chris Hoben, who lives in nearby St Mary's Court, has suggested delaying a decision on planning permission so more consultation can take place.
He said: "The proposed development is not in keeping with the area and of particular concern is the proposal to build a casino close to places of worship. The hotel is simply too tall where it is situated."
Robert Asham, of Arthur Street, also felt it would be out of keeping. He said: "Standing at the northern gateway to the city centre, it will dominate two of the key structures in the area, St Mary's and Derby Cathedral.
"From the Strutt's Park area, the skyline will be completely altered and the current feature of the two church towers will be lost."
These concerns are echoed by the city's conservation area advisory committee, which said the proposal would be an over-intensive development and of poor quality design.
Several objectors are also worried about car parking as only 65 spaces for residents have been planned.
The application will be considered at Thursday's meeting of the city's planning control committee, in the Council House, Derby, from 6pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-26 14:52:25
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Council scare mongering to justify congestion charge
Derby City Council is preparing to make a crucial decision - to either bid for £200m to slash traffic jams but commit commuters to congestion charging, or not to bid and face road chaos.
It is the year 2021 and your alarm goes off for work. You have to be in the city centre for 8.30am meaning you have to set off from home at 7.30am.
Back in 2007, you could leave at 8am to do the same journey but now endless traffic jams have added half an hour to the tedious daily to and fro.
That is the scenario facing commuters in 14 years' time - an extra 30 minutes on their journey time.
Why? Because the amount of traffic on the roads will have increased by 16 per cent on today's figures.
That would see another 23,000 or so vehicles on our roads, and a rise of 20 per cent in the number of car journeys made.
Derby has the fastest growing traffic levels, in percentage terms, in the UK.
The effect will be that the average delay to a journey caused by traffic congestion at peak times within the city boundary will treble from the existing 10 minutes to 30 minutes.
The worrying statistics quoted here have been produced by a complex traffic model created for the city.
In working out the dilemma facing transport planners, the model took into account the number of homes which are likely to be built in the next 14 years and any road changes that might occur - such as completion of an inner ring road.
The model was then used to predict the choices people were likely to make if the current levels of improvement to roads and bus services were to be maintained.
The results send a clear message: Travellers will stick to using cars and being stuck in traffic because public transport will not be up to scratch.
But inconvenience is not the only concern - there is a real price to be paid for the reality of city congestion.
In July, a report commissioned by East Midlands Development Agency revealed that congestion on Derby's roads was costing the city more than £45m a year.
In particular, the report highlighted the impact that major congestion at junctions of the A38 into Derby and the A52 west of Nottingham was having.
With more cars on the roads and the extra delays predicted, Derby City Council is expecting that cost penalty could double by 2021.
Ranjit Banwait, cabinet member for planning and highways at Derby City Council, said: "Our roads are our lifeblood, it is how we get from A to B and our economy runs on our roads, whether it is getting goods into the city, or getting people in to spend money or work.
"All the trends suggest to us that congestion is going to put a cap on our earning potential as a city if our traffic is stuck in jams."
Something much bigger and better is needed to tackle the transport crisis.
That is why the city council is looking at radical plans for transforming metropolitan public transport.
Its plans include dedicated bus lanes alongside existing roads instead of within them; four new park-and-ride schemes, free shuttle buses around the city and a bus service from Mickleover into the city centre along the same route as the former Mick-Mack railway line.
But with much bigger schemes come larger price tags. The cost of the work Derby City Council would like to carry out on top of its normal roadworks means it wants Government cash to the tune of £200m.
If they got it, it would make it necessary for the council to introduce some form of charging for congestion.
Mr Banwait said while it might be a sensitive issue, it was one the council would have to tackle.
"It will be unacceptable if we just leave congestion as it is and carry on as we are."
Let us look at another scenario for 2021 under the present Government. Global warming will have caused all the land to be flooded so we will have to go to work in a boat. Except that as things get more expensive, more companies will go bust, more people will be unemployed, more office buildings and warehouses will be vacant, so there will be no point going to the city.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:49:57
It is the year 2021 and your alarm goes off for work. You have to be in the city centre for 8.30am meaning you have to set off from home at 7.30am.
Back in 2007, you could leave at 8am to do the same journey but now endless traffic jams have added half an hour to the tedious daily to and fro.
That is the scenario facing commuters in 14 years' time - an extra 30 minutes on their journey time.
Why? Because the amount of traffic on the roads will have increased by 16 per cent on today's figures.
That would see another 23,000 or so vehicles on our roads, and a rise of 20 per cent in the number of car journeys made.
Derby has the fastest growing traffic levels, in percentage terms, in the UK.
The effect will be that the average delay to a journey caused by traffic congestion at peak times within the city boundary will treble from the existing 10 minutes to 30 minutes.
The worrying statistics quoted here have been produced by a complex traffic model created for the city.
In working out the dilemma facing transport planners, the model took into account the number of homes which are likely to be built in the next 14 years and any road changes that might occur - such as completion of an inner ring road.
The model was then used to predict the choices people were likely to make if the current levels of improvement to roads and bus services were to be maintained.
The results send a clear message: Travellers will stick to using cars and being stuck in traffic because public transport will not be up to scratch.
But inconvenience is not the only concern - there is a real price to be paid for the reality of city congestion.
In July, a report commissioned by East Midlands Development Agency revealed that congestion on Derby's roads was costing the city more than £45m a year.
In particular, the report highlighted the impact that major congestion at junctions of the A38 into Derby and the A52 west of Nottingham was having.
With more cars on the roads and the extra delays predicted, Derby City Council is expecting that cost penalty could double by 2021.
Ranjit Banwait, cabinet member for planning and highways at Derby City Council, said: "Our roads are our lifeblood, it is how we get from A to B and our economy runs on our roads, whether it is getting goods into the city, or getting people in to spend money or work.
"All the trends suggest to us that congestion is going to put a cap on our earning potential as a city if our traffic is stuck in jams."
Something much bigger and better is needed to tackle the transport crisis.
That is why the city council is looking at radical plans for transforming metropolitan public transport.
Its plans include dedicated bus lanes alongside existing roads instead of within them; four new park-and-ride schemes, free shuttle buses around the city and a bus service from Mickleover into the city centre along the same route as the former Mick-Mack railway line.
But with much bigger schemes come larger price tags. The cost of the work Derby City Council would like to carry out on top of its normal roadworks means it wants Government cash to the tune of £200m.
If they got it, it would make it necessary for the council to introduce some form of charging for congestion.
Mr Banwait said while it might be a sensitive issue, it was one the council would have to tackle.
"It will be unacceptable if we just leave congestion as it is and carry on as we are."
Let us look at another scenario for 2021 under the present Government. Global warming will have caused all the land to be flooded so we will have to go to work in a boat. Except that as things get more expensive, more companies will go bust, more people will be unemployed, more office buildings and warehouses will be vacant, so there will be no point going to the city.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:49:57
Mother of All Storms to hit this Christmas
TORNADOES and thunderstorms are set to batter Britain at Christmas.
The worst weather is forecast to hit on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, leading to appalling road conditions for those travelling to be with family and friends.
Two inches of rain in a single day could see floods across Britain, and stormy seas could breach defences along the west coast, a forecaster said.
An earlier storm, on December 5 or 6, could also see flooding in coastal areas.
Piers Corbyn of independent forecaster Weather Action said: “The storms are serious – preparations should be made.”
MeteoGroup UK forecaster Michael Dukes agreed storms are likely over the festive period.
He said: “The weather will be dominated by western Atlantic systems rather than from the continent. We will see more storms than cold snaps.”
But he added: “It’s impossible at this stage to forecast for Christmas using conventional science.”
A stormy spell set to hit Britain this weekend was forecast last month by Mr Corbyn.
Wet and windy weather will cross the country from the north-west during Saturday, the Met Office confirmed, with winds set to reach gale force in the far north. All areas will see heavy rain and strong winds.
Met Office spokesman Dave Britton said: “Winds could reach 50mph, and it will stay unsettled into next week.”
Britain was on flood alert last night as heavy rain and snow caused river levels to rise. And more serious warnings could be on the way after showers today.
The Trent in Derbyshire was at risk.
The Environment Agency said: “Because of heavy rain and forecasts of more rain to come, we could see more flood watches and even warnings issued.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:31:53
The worst weather is forecast to hit on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, leading to appalling road conditions for those travelling to be with family and friends.
Two inches of rain in a single day could see floods across Britain, and stormy seas could breach defences along the west coast, a forecaster said.
An earlier storm, on December 5 or 6, could also see flooding in coastal areas.
Piers Corbyn of independent forecaster Weather Action said: “The storms are serious – preparations should be made.”
MeteoGroup UK forecaster Michael Dukes agreed storms are likely over the festive period.
He said: “The weather will be dominated by western Atlantic systems rather than from the continent. We will see more storms than cold snaps.”
But he added: “It’s impossible at this stage to forecast for Christmas using conventional science.”
A stormy spell set to hit Britain this weekend was forecast last month by Mr Corbyn.
Wet and windy weather will cross the country from the north-west during Saturday, the Met Office confirmed, with winds set to reach gale force in the far north. All areas will see heavy rain and strong winds.
Met Office spokesman Dave Britton said: “Winds could reach 50mph, and it will stay unsettled into next week.”
Britain was on flood alert last night as heavy rain and snow caused river levels to rise. And more serious warnings could be on the way after showers today.
The Trent in Derbyshire was at risk.
The Environment Agency said: “Because of heavy rain and forecasts of more rain to come, we could see more flood watches and even warnings issued.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:31:53
Sanctuary to save white-clawed crayfish from extinction
Chesterfield has become the site of Derbyshire's first sanctuary for white-clawed crayfish, set up in a bid to save the creature from extinction.
The white-clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius pallipes, is under threat throughout Europe, and in England its decline has been accelerated by the introduction of signal crayfish from North America.
Just as the grey squirrel was bad news for our native red squirrels, signal crayfish are bigger, more aggressive and carry diseases that our native crayfish have no immunity against. In Derbyshire, the numbers of white-clawed crayfish have been declining as the signal crayfish spreads north.
Alarmed by this situation, Chesterfield Borough Council joined forces with the Environment Agency and Natural England to establish a crayfish sanctuary in one of the Borough's country parks.
"It has recently become increasingly clear to conservationists that our native white-clawed crayfish could only survive in complete isolation away from the invading signal crayfish", said the Borough's sustainability officer, Nichola Baker.
"As a consequence, isolated lakes and reservoirs now offer our native crayfish the best chance of long-term survival.
"Last year, the Borough Council commissioned a survey of crayfish in the Borough with the specific aim of finding our remaining populations of native crayfish and identifying potential sanctuaries.
"We discovered that white-clawed crayfish had disappeared from the River Hipper, possibly because of an outbreak of crayfish plague.
"The report recommended several locations which might have made suitable sanctuaries, but in the end only one country park had all the creature comforts required."
After a summer of hard work and preparation, a team of Rangers released 70 white-clawed crayfish into their new Chesterfield home during the last week in October.
"We hope these pioneers will boldly go where no crayfish has gone before, find a nice stone to hide under, and have lots of babies in the spring!" said Nichola.
"But this isn’t the end of the hard work! The crayfish will need careful monitoring for several years, and further habitat creation will take place over the next two to three years to accommodate their, hopefully, expanding numbers."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:26:01
The white-clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius pallipes, is under threat throughout Europe, and in England its decline has been accelerated by the introduction of signal crayfish from North America.
Just as the grey squirrel was bad news for our native red squirrels, signal crayfish are bigger, more aggressive and carry diseases that our native crayfish have no immunity against. In Derbyshire, the numbers of white-clawed crayfish have been declining as the signal crayfish spreads north.
Alarmed by this situation, Chesterfield Borough Council joined forces with the Environment Agency and Natural England to establish a crayfish sanctuary in one of the Borough's country parks.
"It has recently become increasingly clear to conservationists that our native white-clawed crayfish could only survive in complete isolation away from the invading signal crayfish", said the Borough's sustainability officer, Nichola Baker.
"As a consequence, isolated lakes and reservoirs now offer our native crayfish the best chance of long-term survival.
"Last year, the Borough Council commissioned a survey of crayfish in the Borough with the specific aim of finding our remaining populations of native crayfish and identifying potential sanctuaries.
"We discovered that white-clawed crayfish had disappeared from the River Hipper, possibly because of an outbreak of crayfish plague.
"The report recommended several locations which might have made suitable sanctuaries, but in the end only one country park had all the creature comforts required."
After a summer of hard work and preparation, a team of Rangers released 70 white-clawed crayfish into their new Chesterfield home during the last week in October.
"We hope these pioneers will boldly go where no crayfish has gone before, find a nice stone to hide under, and have lots of babies in the spring!" said Nichola.
"But this isn’t the end of the hard work! The crayfish will need careful monitoring for several years, and further habitat creation will take place over the next two to three years to accommodate their, hopefully, expanding numbers."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:26:01
Plans unveiled for two eco-towns
Up to 12,000 homes may be built in the East Midlands under plans for two so-called eco-towns.
Developers want to put almost 6,000 homes at Grovewood in South Derbyshire, and a similar number at New Kingston near Gotham in Nottinghamshire.
They said the settlements, which would produce much of their own power, would benefit from nearby transport links and an improved jobs market.
But objectors claim building on green belt was not environmentally sound.
The government has said it wants to build ten carbon-neutral towns of 5,000 to 20,000 houses across England.
Spokesman David Gosling, of Banks Developments, who are behind the latest scheme, said the locations were very suitable.
"The reasons why we think these are good sites is that they are close to where jobs are being created around East Midlands Airport.
"It is close to the M1 and close to where a new railway station is going to be built."
Some residents of New Kingston said the area would be overwhelmed by the development and the design of the homes did not fit in.
While the developers said the energy efficient homes could be up to 20% more expensive to build, around 30% would still be allocated in the affordable homes category.
About 50 applications have already been submitted nationally including a 20,000 house town near Leicester.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:24:08
Developers want to put almost 6,000 homes at Grovewood in South Derbyshire, and a similar number at New Kingston near Gotham in Nottinghamshire.
They said the settlements, which would produce much of their own power, would benefit from nearby transport links and an improved jobs market.
But objectors claim building on green belt was not environmentally sound.
The government has said it wants to build ten carbon-neutral towns of 5,000 to 20,000 houses across England.
Spokesman David Gosling, of Banks Developments, who are behind the latest scheme, said the locations were very suitable.
"The reasons why we think these are good sites is that they are close to where jobs are being created around East Midlands Airport.
"It is close to the M1 and close to where a new railway station is going to be built."
Some residents of New Kingston said the area would be overwhelmed by the development and the design of the homes did not fit in.
While the developers said the energy efficient homes could be up to 20% more expensive to build, around 30% would still be allocated in the affordable homes category.
About 50 applications have already been submitted nationally including a 20,000 house town near Leicester.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:24:08
Kedleston Hall Stroll
An opportunity to walk around the six-mile boundary of Kedleston Hall is being offered on Sunday.
The walk will start from the hall's main car park at 9.30am and aims to finish in the restaurant at 1pm with soup and sandwiches.
Tickets cost £15 and can be booked by calling Derby 842191. Places on the walk are limited.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:21:27
The walk will start from the hall's main car park at 9.30am and aims to finish in the restaurant at 1pm with soup and sandwiches.
Tickets cost £15 and can be booked by calling Derby 842191. Places on the walk are limited.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:21:27
Speed Cameras
Derbyshire Safety Camera Team has revealed the locations of its mobile speed cameras for the next week.
They include Ripley Road, Heage; Stenson Road, Derby; B600 Somercotes; A52 Ashbourne Road, Derby; A516 Uttoxeter Road, Derby; Wiltshire Road, Chaddesden; A608 Smalley; A6 London Road; A616 Creswell; Castle Road, Church Gresley; A616 Clowne; A52 east of Brailsford; A6 Doveholes; A6 Bakewell; A6 Newtown; A514 Swadlincote; B6052 Whittington; B6179 Lower Kilburn to Little Eaton; A623 Stoney Middleton; A514 Ticknall; and Kedleston Road, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:20:35
They include Ripley Road, Heage; Stenson Road, Derby; B600 Somercotes; A52 Ashbourne Road, Derby; A516 Uttoxeter Road, Derby; Wiltshire Road, Chaddesden; A608 Smalley; A6 London Road; A616 Creswell; Castle Road, Church Gresley; A616 Clowne; A52 east of Brailsford; A6 Doveholes; A6 Bakewell; A6 Newtown; A514 Swadlincote; B6052 Whittington; B6179 Lower Kilburn to Little Eaton; A623 Stoney Middleton; A514 Ticknall; and Kedleston Road, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:20:35
Votes needed to save wood
People are being urged to vote on whether a piece of Derbyshire countryside wins vital funding.
Midland Railway Trust has applied for £80,000 to develop a piece of woodland in Newlands Road, Golden Valley.
The trust wants to build a footbridge over the railway and create footpaths through the area.
But to win the National Lottery funding, the project must first face the public vote.
Next Tuesday, ITV's Central East News will give people the chance to vote by announcing a telephone number on air at 9am.
Voting will take place until midnight and the number will also appear on the trust's website -
>www.midlandrailwaycen tre.co.uk - when it is announced.
Alan Calladine, trust development officer, said: "Without votes we will not be able to save this great piece of countryside for everyone to enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:17:21
Midland Railway Trust has applied for £80,000 to develop a piece of woodland in Newlands Road, Golden Valley.
The trust wants to build a footbridge over the railway and create footpaths through the area.
But to win the National Lottery funding, the project must first face the public vote.
Next Tuesday, ITV's Central East News will give people the chance to vote by announcing a telephone number on air at 9am.
Voting will take place until midnight and the number will also appear on the trust's website -
>www.midlandrailwaycen tre.co.uk - when it is announced.
Alan Calladine, trust development officer, said: "Without votes we will not be able to save this great piece of countryside for everyone to enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:17:21
Hall's not well in city park as talks drag on over its restoration
Conservation campaigners are angry that an historic country house has been allowed to fall into a state of disrepair.
For more than four years, Derby City Council, English Heritage and developer Prime Holdings have been trying to reach an agreement over the future of Allestree Hall.
The hall lies in Allestree Park and members of the Friends of Allestree Park group are now demanding that the three organisations come to a final solution.
The group claims that the building has been left to deteriorate badly.
Alex Kilpatrick, chairman of the group, said: "The council has just let it rot. Something needs to be done before it falls apart."
The 74-year-old said that, even though the hall still had many of its original features, including a grand staircase, pillars, high ceilings and wooden beams, it was in a bad state of repair.
He said the floorboards were rotting and that plaster was coming off the walls.
The Grade II*-listed building has been empty since the 1980s, apart from one section which is occupied by Allestree Golf Club.
A 299-year lease for the house was put up for sale by the council in 1998, which said it could not afford to pay £1.5m for extensive repairs.
Prime Holdings was identified as the council's preferred developers and, in 2003, it was reported that the Derby firm was set to sign a deal with the council to build flats, offices, a restaurant and conference centre at the hall.
Four years on, the council is still in talks with the firm and English Heritage.
The Friends say they do not want to see the hall turned into flats and are angry that they have not been consulted about the plans.
Mr Kilpatrick, of Rockingham Close, Allestree, said: "We have been kept in the dark. No-one has been consulted as far as I am aware.
"We are interested in the future of the park and we should have been informed.
"I would like to think that we could have some form of input into what happens to the hall before it falls apart."
He said the group would rather see the hall turned into a nature museum.
Steve Meynell, the council's chief estates officer, said that he did not know when an agreement would be reached on the future of the hall.
He said that no formal plans had been submitted because the three organisations were still negotiating about any new buildings that would be created as part of the development.
Mr Meynell said that talks could not move forward until an agreement on this issue had been reached.
No-one was available to comment from Milner Associates, which is acting on behalf of Prime Holdings, or English Heritage.
Sounds like another Elvaston Castle scenario to me!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:05:20
For more than four years, Derby City Council, English Heritage and developer Prime Holdings have been trying to reach an agreement over the future of Allestree Hall.
The hall lies in Allestree Park and members of the Friends of Allestree Park group are now demanding that the three organisations come to a final solution.
The group claims that the building has been left to deteriorate badly.
Alex Kilpatrick, chairman of the group, said: "The council has just let it rot. Something needs to be done before it falls apart."
The 74-year-old said that, even though the hall still had many of its original features, including a grand staircase, pillars, high ceilings and wooden beams, it was in a bad state of repair.
He said the floorboards were rotting and that plaster was coming off the walls.
The Grade II*-listed building has been empty since the 1980s, apart from one section which is occupied by Allestree Golf Club.
A 299-year lease for the house was put up for sale by the council in 1998, which said it could not afford to pay £1.5m for extensive repairs.
Prime Holdings was identified as the council's preferred developers and, in 2003, it was reported that the Derby firm was set to sign a deal with the council to build flats, offices, a restaurant and conference centre at the hall.
Four years on, the council is still in talks with the firm and English Heritage.
The Friends say they do not want to see the hall turned into flats and are angry that they have not been consulted about the plans.
Mr Kilpatrick, of Rockingham Close, Allestree, said: "We have been kept in the dark. No-one has been consulted as far as I am aware.
"We are interested in the future of the park and we should have been informed.
"I would like to think that we could have some form of input into what happens to the hall before it falls apart."
He said the group would rather see the hall turned into a nature museum.
Steve Meynell, the council's chief estates officer, said that he did not know when an agreement would be reached on the future of the hall.
He said that no formal plans had been submitted because the three organisations were still negotiating about any new buildings that would be created as part of the development.
Mr Meynell said that talks could not move forward until an agreement on this issue had been reached.
No-one was available to comment from Milner Associates, which is acting on behalf of Prime Holdings, or English Heritage.
Sounds like another Elvaston Castle scenario to me!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-20 14:05:20
Police Deter Shoplifters with Life-Sized Cardboard Cut-Outs
Holiday shopping means increased shoppers, and also an increased incidence of shoplifting. In the U.K., Derbyshire police are deploying 10 life-sized cardboard cutouts of a policewoman in the Peak District to deter criminals.
They indicated that the deployment of the cut-outs does not indicate a reduction in force. According to Pc Anna Gaskill, model for the cut-outs, "We have plenty of police officers out there. It is just an extra deterrent." The cut-outs cost about £100.
The program is modeled after one already used in the Amber Valley area. Just one problem with the whole idea: in the Amber Valley program, one of the cut-outs was stolen.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:56:59
They indicated that the deployment of the cut-outs does not indicate a reduction in force. According to Pc Anna Gaskill, model for the cut-outs, "We have plenty of police officers out there. It is just an extra deterrent." The cut-outs cost about £100.
The program is modeled after one already used in the Amber Valley area. Just one problem with the whole idea: in the Amber Valley program, one of the cut-outs was stolen.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:56:59
Export block gives hope
Culture Minister, Margaret Hodge, has placed a temporary export bar on a ledger kept by a seventeenth century lead merchant in the Peak District. This will provide a last chance to raise the money to keep this fascinating insight into an important entrepreneurial trade in the United Kingdom. The Minister’s ruling follows a recommendation by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest, administered by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:55:07
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:55:07
£2 charge to drive into city
City council chiefs have revealed details of how a congestion charge might work - and the £200m investment it could bring to Derby.
The council is looking at charging people £2 to drive into the city at morning rush hour.
A virtual line would be drawn around the city boundary and vehicles that cross it between 7am and 9am would have to pay.
Ministers have told councils that they must impose some form of congestion charge if they want a slice of a £1.4bn pot of Government cash to improve public transport and roads.
City council leader Chris Williamson said that the council's hands were tied because it desperately wanted about £200m to sort out traffic jams in Derby before they got out of control.
"The aim is that the quality of the alternatives on offer would be such that it would free up enough road space that people who had no viable alternative to using their car would actually be getting value for their £2 into the city because they would have clearer roads," said Mr Williamson.
The council is also considering a range of exemptions from the charge, such as for Hackney carriage drivers and disabled people.
There would be no charge for drivers leaving the city or driving outside the peak morning period or at weekends.
The charge could also be suspended during school holidays, when traffic was lighter.
Mr Williamson said: "If we do bid for this cash and we get it, we will be committed to introducing a charge but that charge would only come in once we have used the money to improve public transport by creating new park-and-ride schemes, a dedicated bus way and bus routes into the city.
"That means that there is unlikely to be any charge at all until around 2018 or 2019 and even then it would only be for a couple of pounds."
Mr Williamson has said previously that, if congestion charging was introduced in the city, Derby residents would not have to pay.
The details of how and when people would pay and the exact location of the city boundary are still being looked at but it is likely people would buy permits in advance of their journey at discounted rates, online or through retailers in the city.
The council must decide in the spring whether to submit the bid for the Government money and subsequently commit to congestion charging.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:48:45
The council is looking at charging people £2 to drive into the city at morning rush hour.
A virtual line would be drawn around the city boundary and vehicles that cross it between 7am and 9am would have to pay.
Ministers have told councils that they must impose some form of congestion charge if they want a slice of a £1.4bn pot of Government cash to improve public transport and roads.
City council leader Chris Williamson said that the council's hands were tied because it desperately wanted about £200m to sort out traffic jams in Derby before they got out of control.
"The aim is that the quality of the alternatives on offer would be such that it would free up enough road space that people who had no viable alternative to using their car would actually be getting value for their £2 into the city because they would have clearer roads," said Mr Williamson.
The council is also considering a range of exemptions from the charge, such as for Hackney carriage drivers and disabled people.
There would be no charge for drivers leaving the city or driving outside the peak morning period or at weekends.
The charge could also be suspended during school holidays, when traffic was lighter.
Mr Williamson said: "If we do bid for this cash and we get it, we will be committed to introducing a charge but that charge would only come in once we have used the money to improve public transport by creating new park-and-ride schemes, a dedicated bus way and bus routes into the city.
"That means that there is unlikely to be any charge at all until around 2018 or 2019 and even then it would only be for a couple of pounds."
Mr Williamson has said previously that, if congestion charging was introduced in the city, Derby residents would not have to pay.
The details of how and when people would pay and the exact location of the city boundary are still being looked at but it is likely people would buy permits in advance of their journey at discounted rates, online or through retailers in the city.
The council must decide in the spring whether to submit the bid for the Government money and subsequently commit to congestion charging.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-19 12:48:45
Christmas at Chatsworth
This Christmas at Chatsworth promises to be the most colourful and atmospheric yet as Derbyshire's treasure house is brilliantly transformed in a rich display of colours and lights.
The historic rooms and their treasures are enhanced with seasonal decorations 'with a twist' – from the sparkle of candles against spectacular drops of silver plates and the vivid red decorations on the huge Christmas tree to the colossal historic crystal at the heart of a giant kaleidoscope, this will be a unique experience.
In a new collaboration, the table of the magnificent dining room will be laid with outstanding examples of contemporary silver, lent by the Sheffield Assay Office as part of the first ever 'Galvanise' festival, a celebration of contemporary metal design in Sheffield.
Throughout November and December, the farmyard and adventure playground also has a packed programme of seasonal activities and entertainment, with live music from the best regional choirs and bands, as well as family nativity performances during December.
Together with superb shopping, exclusive evening openings and gourmet evenings, Chatsworth is certainly the place to visit for a spectacular Christmas.
More Info at www.chatsworth.org
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:38:59
The historic rooms and their treasures are enhanced with seasonal decorations 'with a twist' – from the sparkle of candles against spectacular drops of silver plates and the vivid red decorations on the huge Christmas tree to the colossal historic crystal at the heart of a giant kaleidoscope, this will be a unique experience.
In a new collaboration, the table of the magnificent dining room will be laid with outstanding examples of contemporary silver, lent by the Sheffield Assay Office as part of the first ever 'Galvanise' festival, a celebration of contemporary metal design in Sheffield.
Throughout November and December, the farmyard and adventure playground also has a packed programme of seasonal activities and entertainment, with live music from the best regional choirs and bands, as well as family nativity performances during December.
Together with superb shopping, exclusive evening openings and gourmet evenings, Chatsworth is certainly the place to visit for a spectacular Christmas.
More Info at www.chatsworth.org
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:38:59
Clean and green? Then let it be seen
Eco-friendly Peak District businesses can learn how to shout about their environmental credentials at a free “Green Marketing” workshop on Tuesday November 27.
The workshop will show businesspeople how to maximise their marketing through their support for the Peak District environment and local produce.
Peak District Environmental Quality Mark officer Faith Johnson, who organised the workshop, said: “The special Peak District environment can be a real business asset. If you’re helping protect this environment, then you should shout about it.
“Communicating your green credentials can make all the difference to gaining customer loyalty, repeat business and attracting new clients.”
The Peak District Environmental Quality Mark (EQM) certifies a business’s high environmental standards, and is already used by many businesses to boost their publicity. The distinctive EQM logo can be used in all their advertising, and shops, farms, holiday accommodation providers and craft- producers all over the Peak District now proudly display the EQM sign.
The workshop will include a presentation by Kate Grubb, who runs Eco-Cabins of Shropshire, and already boosts her marketing campaigns by highlighting use of renewable energy, local produce, recycling and ecological building design.
There will also be a presentation about the EQM, and a session on marketing actions people can take for their business. A buffet-lunch of Peak District National Park-produced foods is included.
The workshop is from 11am to 2.30pm on November 27 at the Farming Life Centre, Blackwell Hall Farm, near Taddington, SK17 9TQ.
Places are free and limited to one per business, but there will be a non-attendance fee of £15. The workshop is funded by the Peak District Rural Pathfinder programme.
To book, contact Julie White on 07971 666474 or e-mail julie@juliew.co.uk
To find out more about the Environmental Quality Mark, go to www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/eqm
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:35:46
The workshop will show businesspeople how to maximise their marketing through their support for the Peak District environment and local produce.
Peak District Environmental Quality Mark officer Faith Johnson, who organised the workshop, said: “The special Peak District environment can be a real business asset. If you’re helping protect this environment, then you should shout about it.
“Communicating your green credentials can make all the difference to gaining customer loyalty, repeat business and attracting new clients.”
The Peak District Environmental Quality Mark (EQM) certifies a business’s high environmental standards, and is already used by many businesses to boost their publicity. The distinctive EQM logo can be used in all their advertising, and shops, farms, holiday accommodation providers and craft- producers all over the Peak District now proudly display the EQM sign.
The workshop will include a presentation by Kate Grubb, who runs Eco-Cabins of Shropshire, and already boosts her marketing campaigns by highlighting use of renewable energy, local produce, recycling and ecological building design.
There will also be a presentation about the EQM, and a session on marketing actions people can take for their business. A buffet-lunch of Peak District National Park-produced foods is included.
The workshop is from 11am to 2.30pm on November 27 at the Farming Life Centre, Blackwell Hall Farm, near Taddington, SK17 9TQ.
Places are free and limited to one per business, but there will be a non-attendance fee of £15. The workshop is funded by the Peak District Rural Pathfinder programme.
To book, contact Julie White on 07971 666474 or e-mail julie@juliew.co.uk
To find out more about the Environmental Quality Mark, go to www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/eqm
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:35:46
Parishes focus on National Park planning
Parish councillors from all over the Peak District National Park have a deeper understanding of planning issues following a one-day training session led by national park planners.
The councillors, who have a key consultative role in national park planning applications, wanted to be better-informed when making their recommendations.
The event was organised by the Parishes Forum, which represents parish and town councils throughout the area, and National Park Authority planning officers and members led the talks and exercises.
It included updates on the planning process, liaison and law, a briefing on best building designs for the national park, and an illustrated talk on what makes local identity in the village of Winster.
It also included role-play – with parish councillors finding out what it is like to be a decision-maker on the planning committee – and exercises, with councillors designing an extension to a historic cottage, window-improvements and a re-design of a village housing estate.
Parishes Forum chair Cllr Rob Greatorex said: “This seminar was really informative, concentrating on all aspects of the planning system in the Peak District National Park. We particularly dealt with those matters that cause so much concern to local councils. Everyone enjoyed the exercises and talks. Officer-contact is valuable to ensure better understanding of respective roles and a more positive contribution to planning decisions.”
National Park Authority chair Narendra Bajaria agreed: “This type of training helps our constituent councils appreciate the important role of parish council in planning decisions.
“By raising awareness we can help ensure that the national park is better for its conservation and the well-being of local communities.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:33:11
The councillors, who have a key consultative role in national park planning applications, wanted to be better-informed when making their recommendations.
The event was organised by the Parishes Forum, which represents parish and town councils throughout the area, and National Park Authority planning officers and members led the talks and exercises.
It included updates on the planning process, liaison and law, a briefing on best building designs for the national park, and an illustrated talk on what makes local identity in the village of Winster.
It also included role-play – with parish councillors finding out what it is like to be a decision-maker on the planning committee – and exercises, with councillors designing an extension to a historic cottage, window-improvements and a re-design of a village housing estate.
Parishes Forum chair Cllr Rob Greatorex said: “This seminar was really informative, concentrating on all aspects of the planning system in the Peak District National Park. We particularly dealt with those matters that cause so much concern to local councils. Everyone enjoyed the exercises and talks. Officer-contact is valuable to ensure better understanding of respective roles and a more positive contribution to planning decisions.”
National Park Authority chair Narendra Bajaria agreed: “This type of training helps our constituent councils appreciate the important role of parish council in planning decisions.
“By raising awareness we can help ensure that the national park is better for its conservation and the well-being of local communities.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:33:11
Partnership projects to get Nestle boost
FOOD giant Nestle has pledged to support the Ashbourne Partnership in a move members say will help to fund future projects in the town.
The firm, which once had a massive industrial presence in the town, still owns land behind the Waterside Park development and says it sees its donation is a "gesture of goodwill".
The Partnership has been involved in talks with Nestle over what it intends to do with the redundant site, and bosses say they still considering what to do with it.
Nestle has a history of supporting the town since the closure of the Clifton Road factory, including the donation of the Fishpond Meadows land to the district council.
Partnership chairman Marcus Pegg said: "This funding effectively replaces the RAZ (Rural Action Zone) money which is due to run out in March next year and means we are now able to talk to our other supporters to secure our long term future
"Continuing support has already been promised by Derbyshire Dales District Council and a request for matched funding has been made to the Ashbourne Town Council.
"A meeting of Partnership members will shortly be arranged when it is hoped to unveil plans for increased membership and major new initiatives to improve the town."
A spokesman for Nestle said: "Nestle has worked closely with the Partnership recently and, as a gesture of goodwill, will continue to do so in a limited way, while the Partnership secures ongoing funding for its projects."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:27:54
The firm, which once had a massive industrial presence in the town, still owns land behind the Waterside Park development and says it sees its donation is a "gesture of goodwill".
The Partnership has been involved in talks with Nestle over what it intends to do with the redundant site, and bosses say they still considering what to do with it.
Nestle has a history of supporting the town since the closure of the Clifton Road factory, including the donation of the Fishpond Meadows land to the district council.
Partnership chairman Marcus Pegg said: "This funding effectively replaces the RAZ (Rural Action Zone) money which is due to run out in March next year and means we are now able to talk to our other supporters to secure our long term future
"Continuing support has already been promised by Derbyshire Dales District Council and a request for matched funding has been made to the Ashbourne Town Council.
"A meeting of Partnership members will shortly be arranged when it is hoped to unveil plans for increased membership and major new initiatives to improve the town."
A spokesman for Nestle said: "Nestle has worked closely with the Partnership recently and, as a gesture of goodwill, will continue to do so in a limited way, while the Partnership secures ongoing funding for its projects."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:27:54
Bypass funding needs high profile
THE elimination of traffic congestion is Ashbourne's highest priority, Derbyshire County Council has been told.
The message has come from Derbyshire Dales Council in submitting its bids to the county authority for schemes to be included in the Derbyshire Local Transport Plan 2008/09 Capital Schemes List.
District council officers had already held informal discussions with the county council on a number of potential schemes which then came before members of the partnership and regeneration committee for nominations to be put forward for consideration.
Regarding Ashbourne bypass, the county council was advised of the district council's continuing support and of the negative impact traffic congestion was having on the physical infrastructure, as well as resident and visitor enjoyment of the town.
Derbyshire County Council has indicated to the district that Ashbourne bypass is one of four major schemes it is supporting and would need to be identified as a regional priority to enable the funding to be made available.
In the meantime a traffic study is being undertaken in Ashbourne by the county council to identify whether an opportunity exists for minor works to be implemented that would improve the current situation.
The importance of the bypass was discussed in the Ashbourne economic study which also identified a second access on to the Ashbourne Airfield Industrial Estate as being an important part of improving inward investment opportunities and future growth of the town.
The county council indicated that, in principle, it would support schemes that had the potential to benefit the local economy but indicated that it would not generally fund improvements such as this unless it was considered unreasonable for a developer to deliver it.
The county council did concede that the inclusion of the land as an allocation in the Waste Sites Development Plan document might improve the likelihood of support from the county council.
Members were also concerned about the A515 accident black spot at Fenny Bentley, the county council explaining that remedial works had already been done.
The county authority was currently monitoring the Tissington turn and Rakes Lane turn and will be introducing a 50mph speed limit on the A515 in the near future. No further intervention was anticipated and in future measures will only be introduced where necessary to resolve specific issues.
Another black spot raised by members was on the A52 west of Brailsford, where the main concern of traffic speed has already been identified.
Signs and enforcement had made some impact but the county council saw no obvious solution.
Committee chairman Coun Simon Spencer welcomed the opportunity to present Derbyshire County Council with transportation schemes important to this area, recommendations carried including the schemes suggested by members and supported by the committee being forwarded to the county council for consideration.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:25:17
The message has come from Derbyshire Dales Council in submitting its bids to the county authority for schemes to be included in the Derbyshire Local Transport Plan 2008/09 Capital Schemes List.
District council officers had already held informal discussions with the county council on a number of potential schemes which then came before members of the partnership and regeneration committee for nominations to be put forward for consideration.
Regarding Ashbourne bypass, the county council was advised of the district council's continuing support and of the negative impact traffic congestion was having on the physical infrastructure, as well as resident and visitor enjoyment of the town.
Derbyshire County Council has indicated to the district that Ashbourne bypass is one of four major schemes it is supporting and would need to be identified as a regional priority to enable the funding to be made available.
In the meantime a traffic study is being undertaken in Ashbourne by the county council to identify whether an opportunity exists for minor works to be implemented that would improve the current situation.
The importance of the bypass was discussed in the Ashbourne economic study which also identified a second access on to the Ashbourne Airfield Industrial Estate as being an important part of improving inward investment opportunities and future growth of the town.
The county council indicated that, in principle, it would support schemes that had the potential to benefit the local economy but indicated that it would not generally fund improvements such as this unless it was considered unreasonable for a developer to deliver it.
The county council did concede that the inclusion of the land as an allocation in the Waste Sites Development Plan document might improve the likelihood of support from the county council.
Members were also concerned about the A515 accident black spot at Fenny Bentley, the county council explaining that remedial works had already been done.
The county authority was currently monitoring the Tissington turn and Rakes Lane turn and will be introducing a 50mph speed limit on the A515 in the near future. No further intervention was anticipated and in future measures will only be introduced where necessary to resolve specific issues.
Another black spot raised by members was on the A52 west of Brailsford, where the main concern of traffic speed has already been identified.
Signs and enforcement had made some impact but the county council saw no obvious solution.
Committee chairman Coun Simon Spencer welcomed the opportunity to present Derbyshire County Council with transportation schemes important to this area, recommendations carried including the schemes suggested by members and supported by the committee being forwarded to the county council for consideration.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:25:17
Fears over new Gardens plans
BUXTON'S Pavilion Gardens Support Group has expressed concern about the speed at which changes to the entertainment complex are being planned by High Peak Borough Council.
They fear that a proposal to close the cafeteria to make way for a larger restaurant would destroy the Gardens' biggest money-maker.
And the pressure group believes the proposals might cause a loss of facilities to the general public similar to those the ill-fated Food Hall project could have caused - with the end to the Gardens as a venue for weddings and major events such as the recent boxing club gala night.
The Council has pledged to make the Gardens independent of public subsidy by promoting the Octagon and Paxton Suite by creating new facilities including an ice cream parlour, a retail area for local arts and crafts and a dedicated restaurant open seven days a week.
But a spokesman for the Support Group, made up of local people dedicated to preserving the historic buildings as community facilities, believed questions needed to be asked soon before the proposals were carried out.
"It is very encouraging to hear the enthusiastic intent of the HPBC to improve and refurbish the Pavilion Gardens but in all the announcements, there have been no actual details published," he said.
"There seems to be indecent haste to make a decision that does not appear to take into account key factors such as current usage of the cafeteria and restaurant and also the financial contribution made by key areas such as the cafeteria and functions business throughout the year.
"Situated between the Octagon and the main restaurant, the Cafeteria is currently the social hub of the whole operation and where young and old, families with young children, coach trip visitors, exhibitors and their customers, hikers, cyclists mix in an unpretentious lively atmosphere. It serves locals and visitors alike."
These matters were crucial to the viability of the Pavilion Gardens even in the short term and among vital questions he said needed to be answered were:
* When will the public be given detailed information and will they have the chance of commenting and affecting the final decision?
* Does the plan, amended by a recent Council forum meeting, include the following:
* Removing the current Cafeteria to accommodate the Tourist Information Centre and the Arts & Crafts from the Pump Room together with an expanded shop?
* Is it proposed that the restaurant and cafeteria business will be replaced by a more upmarket Café-Bar Restaurant open approx 10am -10pm, seven days a week?
* Does this mean that all private functions, such as weddings - including those already booked - will no longer be able to utilise this area?
* Many events held in the Octagon rely on the facilities of the Cafeteria being immediately available. What alternative arrangements have been made?
* What feasibility studies have been carried out to determine what presently works and what doesn't work?
* What emphasis has been given to increasing the number of events there?
* If the area now used as the cafeteria is occupied solely for Tourist information and Arts and Crafts and shop how will visitors circulate from the Octagon to the Restaurant area, for refreshments and toilets?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:05:09
They fear that a proposal to close the cafeteria to make way for a larger restaurant would destroy the Gardens' biggest money-maker.
And the pressure group believes the proposals might cause a loss of facilities to the general public similar to those the ill-fated Food Hall project could have caused - with the end to the Gardens as a venue for weddings and major events such as the recent boxing club gala night.
The Council has pledged to make the Gardens independent of public subsidy by promoting the Octagon and Paxton Suite by creating new facilities including an ice cream parlour, a retail area for local arts and crafts and a dedicated restaurant open seven days a week.
But a spokesman for the Support Group, made up of local people dedicated to preserving the historic buildings as community facilities, believed questions needed to be asked soon before the proposals were carried out.
"It is very encouraging to hear the enthusiastic intent of the HPBC to improve and refurbish the Pavilion Gardens but in all the announcements, there have been no actual details published," he said.
"There seems to be indecent haste to make a decision that does not appear to take into account key factors such as current usage of the cafeteria and restaurant and also the financial contribution made by key areas such as the cafeteria and functions business throughout the year.
"Situated between the Octagon and the main restaurant, the Cafeteria is currently the social hub of the whole operation and where young and old, families with young children, coach trip visitors, exhibitors and their customers, hikers, cyclists mix in an unpretentious lively atmosphere. It serves locals and visitors alike."
These matters were crucial to the viability of the Pavilion Gardens even in the short term and among vital questions he said needed to be answered were:
* When will the public be given detailed information and will they have the chance of commenting and affecting the final decision?
* Does the plan, amended by a recent Council forum meeting, include the following:
* Removing the current Cafeteria to accommodate the Tourist Information Centre and the Arts & Crafts from the Pump Room together with an expanded shop?
* Is it proposed that the restaurant and cafeteria business will be replaced by a more upmarket Café-Bar Restaurant open approx 10am -10pm, seven days a week?
* Does this mean that all private functions, such as weddings - including those already booked - will no longer be able to utilise this area?
* Many events held in the Octagon rely on the facilities of the Cafeteria being immediately available. What alternative arrangements have been made?
* What feasibility studies have been carried out to determine what presently works and what doesn't work?
* What emphasis has been given to increasing the number of events there?
* If the area now used as the cafeteria is occupied solely for Tourist information and Arts and Crafts and shop how will visitors circulate from the Octagon to the Restaurant area, for refreshments and toilets?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:05:09
Pottery accolade for shop displays
STAFF at Denby Pottery's Visitor Centre have just received a national award in recognition of the exceptional displays at the centre.
The award – ‘Excellence in Housewares for Retail Display’, was achieved after the centre was judged to have the best displays in an independent housewares store.
The accolade was presented by The Cookshop and Housewares Association and Progressive Housewares Magazine.
Judging was based on the quality of the displays at both the Denby Home Store, which was built last year and the Cookery Emporium.
The centre has also been put forward for the Global Innovator Award and will represent the country at a special show in Chicago in March next year.
Erica Coobes, buyer and senior manager, said: "Everyone pitches in together but the displays depend on what I buy in. It's hard work but everyone does their bit towards it. I was just gobsmacked to hear about the Global Innovator Award."
Erica will have to give a presentation at the awards and the winner will be the result of a meeting of a worldwide housewares jury.
Denby will be presented with the National award at the gala evening at which the worldwide winner will be announced.
The centre adjacent to the Denby factory on Derby Road, will be hosting a food fair on December 8 and December 9 from 9.30am to 5pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:02:22
The award – ‘Excellence in Housewares for Retail Display’, was achieved after the centre was judged to have the best displays in an independent housewares store.
The accolade was presented by The Cookshop and Housewares Association and Progressive Housewares Magazine.
Judging was based on the quality of the displays at both the Denby Home Store, which was built last year and the Cookery Emporium.
The centre has also been put forward for the Global Innovator Award and will represent the country at a special show in Chicago in March next year.
Erica Coobes, buyer and senior manager, said: "Everyone pitches in together but the displays depend on what I buy in. It's hard work but everyone does their bit towards it. I was just gobsmacked to hear about the Global Innovator Award."
Erica will have to give a presentation at the awards and the winner will be the result of a meeting of a worldwide housewares jury.
Denby will be presented with the National award at the gala evening at which the worldwide winner will be announced.
The centre adjacent to the Denby factory on Derby Road, will be hosting a food fair on December 8 and December 9 from 9.30am to 5pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:02:22
Warning issued over winter roads
With the first frost of the winter arriving, Derbyshire County Council is asking drivers to help keep roads safe.
The authority has said its gritting teams are now on call to keep roads ice free at all times.
A spokesman said statistics showed the council gritted 1,555 of the area's 3,300 miles of roads - more than any other county.
But it asked motorists to help out by respecting conditions and keeping vehicles maintained.
Officials have reminded drivers that stopping distances can be 10 times further in icy conditions, fog can appear on roads very quickly and low sun can dazzle.
They also said it was important for mirrors to be kept clean, batteries fully charged and wipers in good order.
Councillor Brian Lucas, cabinet member for environmental services, said: "In bad weather we would advise that motorists only go out if the journey is absolutely necessary and if it is make sure they and their vehicle are ready for the journey.
"Checking on the internet or listening to local radio for the latest travel and weather information is always a good pointer before heading out on the road."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:00:26
The authority has said its gritting teams are now on call to keep roads ice free at all times.
A spokesman said statistics showed the council gritted 1,555 of the area's 3,300 miles of roads - more than any other county.
But it asked motorists to help out by respecting conditions and keeping vehicles maintained.
Officials have reminded drivers that stopping distances can be 10 times further in icy conditions, fog can appear on roads very quickly and low sun can dazzle.
They also said it was important for mirrors to be kept clean, batteries fully charged and wipers in good order.
Councillor Brian Lucas, cabinet member for environmental services, said: "In bad weather we would advise that motorists only go out if the journey is absolutely necessary and if it is make sure they and their vehicle are ready for the journey.
"Checking on the internet or listening to local radio for the latest travel and weather information is always a good pointer before heading out on the road."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 14:00:26
Rams chief in talks with US consortium
Derby County chairman Adam Pearson has admitted he is in talks with an American consortium about possible investment in the Rams.
And Shamrock Holdings, the financial institution owned by Roy Disney, could be one of the investors involved.
But Pearson has played down the importance of these discussions, saying talks are also taking place with half a dozen other interested parties.
He says talks with one group in America and one group in the Far East have progressed further.
Pearson yesterday denied having had any contact with Disney or Shamrock.
Today he maintained that there was no link with Disney and said that he was having no direct talks with Shamrock.
They were only one of six potential investors in one US consortium.
"It's just a shame that we can't conduct this business in private," said Pearson.
"We are talking with a number of parties and it's unfortunate there's a Disney name in there.
"But it bears no connection with this company [Shamrock].
"It's just another part of our discussions for the future."
Pearson had rubbished a report in a national newspaper yesterday which linked the Walt Disney family with a potential takeover at Pride Park.
He was fuming and blasted the reports as "cheap and grossly inaccurate".
Pearson had pointed to the potentially damaging effect of yesterday's stories.
"This does not reflect well on Derby County, it is not helpful," he said.
"We are taking the search for investment seriously and the future of Derby County very seriously.
"I find it extremely disappointing that people feel the need to put these stories out.
"It is not good for on-going negotiations.
"People need to be more responsible.
"The future of the club is far more important than people's self interests.
"I said when I took on the chairmanship that I would not engage in media speculation with regard to investment and now I'm being drawn into such conversations.
"I don't want to say anything until a deal is done.
"When I have got something serious to talk about, the Derby supporters will be the first to know."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:58:20
And Shamrock Holdings, the financial institution owned by Roy Disney, could be one of the investors involved.
But Pearson has played down the importance of these discussions, saying talks are also taking place with half a dozen other interested parties.
He says talks with one group in America and one group in the Far East have progressed further.
Pearson yesterday denied having had any contact with Disney or Shamrock.
Today he maintained that there was no link with Disney and said that he was having no direct talks with Shamrock.
They were only one of six potential investors in one US consortium.
"It's just a shame that we can't conduct this business in private," said Pearson.
"We are talking with a number of parties and it's unfortunate there's a Disney name in there.
"But it bears no connection with this company [Shamrock].
"It's just another part of our discussions for the future."
Pearson had rubbished a report in a national newspaper yesterday which linked the Walt Disney family with a potential takeover at Pride Park.
He was fuming and blasted the reports as "cheap and grossly inaccurate".
Pearson had pointed to the potentially damaging effect of yesterday's stories.
"This does not reflect well on Derby County, it is not helpful," he said.
"We are taking the search for investment seriously and the future of Derby County very seriously.
"I find it extremely disappointing that people feel the need to put these stories out.
"It is not good for on-going negotiations.
"People need to be more responsible.
"The future of the club is far more important than people's self interests.
"I said when I took on the chairmanship that I would not engage in media speculation with regard to investment and now I'm being drawn into such conversations.
"I don't want to say anything until a deal is done.
"When I have got something serious to talk about, the Derby supporters will be the first to know."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:58:20
Wizzard to start Ashbourne Christmas
Rock legend Roy Wood will be switching on the Christmas lights in Ashbourne this year.
The former Wizzard frontman will be joining the Mayor of Ashbourne, Steve Bull, to perform the honours, when the date is fixed.
Mr Wood, who lives in Cubley, is best known for his smash hit, I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day, which is still one of the most popular Christmas songs ever made.
The 61-year old was founder member of the band the Move, whose song, Flowers in the Rain, was the first to be played on Radio 1 when it was launched 40 years ago.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:54:22
The former Wizzard frontman will be joining the Mayor of Ashbourne, Steve Bull, to perform the honours, when the date is fixed.
Mr Wood, who lives in Cubley, is best known for his smash hit, I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day, which is still one of the most popular Christmas songs ever made.
The 61-year old was founder member of the band the Move, whose song, Flowers in the Rain, was the first to be played on Radio 1 when it was launched 40 years ago.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:54:22
Derby's very own St Pancras
Renowned architect Derek Latham has revealed his vision for a world-class railway station in Derby.
He has come up with a design which echoes London's St Pancras, in the same week that it became home to the Eurostar.
The service means Derby now has a faster, more direct, link to Europe and Mr Latham is keen to build on this.
He wants to see a 21st-century station with a clear arched roof over the entire building and a new, modern facade.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:51:08
He has come up with a design which echoes London's St Pancras, in the same week that it became home to the Eurostar.
The service means Derby now has a faster, more direct, link to Europe and Mr Latham is keen to build on this.
He wants to see a 21st-century station with a clear arched roof over the entire building and a new, modern facade.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:51:08
Kedleston Walk
Walkers can explore the grounds of Kedleston Hall on a six-mile walk.
The event, which will raise money toward the running costs of the National Trust property, will take place on Sunday, November 25, from 9.30am.
Tickets cost £15, which includes lunch, and booking is essential. To reserve a place, call Derby 842191.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:49:17
The event, which will raise money toward the running costs of the National Trust property, will take place on Sunday, November 25, from 9.30am.
Tickets cost £15, which includes lunch, and booking is essential. To reserve a place, call Derby 842191.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 13:49:17
Medieval A & E Ward?
HISTORIANS are attempting to unlock the secrets of a Peak District site which is once thought to have been the location of a medieval hospital.
Castleton Historical Society has been awarded £32,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to conduct a geophysical survey at the site, situated on the outskirts of the Peak village.
Working with experts and students from the University of Sheffield, the Society hopes to uncover evidence about the use of the hospital, which is believed to have been founded by a religious order for the care of the 'sick poor' in the early 12th Century.
Angela Darlington, a Trustee of Castleton Historical Society, said there was much speculation but little hard evidence about the site's past.
"When the hospital was first founded it might have been for the purpose of providing shelter for lepers, and then might have been an institution for the 'sick poor' at some later date," she said.
"It would not have been to treat physical ailments, but to prepare them for heaven.
"The last warden of the hospital was recorded about the time of the dissolution of the monasteries. We don't believe it was in existence as a hospital after about 1540."
The survey site will be an area of farmland opposite the entrance to Lose Hill Hall, on the southern side of the A625 Castleton Road.
As well as a geophysical survey, using special non-invasive techniques such as resistivity and magnetometry, a topographical survey will be conducted to study the contours of the land.
It will be carried out under the guidance of experts from the Archaeology department at the University of Sheffield.
Angela added: "We are keeping an open mind as there is no guarantee we will find anything, but it would be very exciting to find some evidence of some kind of buildings."
The Heritage Lottery Fund grant will also help finance a new display at the Society's museum in Castleton Information Centre.
Anybody wantingto know more about Castleton Historical Society should call Angela on 01433 620281.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 09:11:06
Castleton Historical Society has been awarded £32,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to conduct a geophysical survey at the site, situated on the outskirts of the Peak village.
Working with experts and students from the University of Sheffield, the Society hopes to uncover evidence about the use of the hospital, which is believed to have been founded by a religious order for the care of the 'sick poor' in the early 12th Century.
Angela Darlington, a Trustee of Castleton Historical Society, said there was much speculation but little hard evidence about the site's past.
"When the hospital was first founded it might have been for the purpose of providing shelter for lepers, and then might have been an institution for the 'sick poor' at some later date," she said.
"It would not have been to treat physical ailments, but to prepare them for heaven.
"The last warden of the hospital was recorded about the time of the dissolution of the monasteries. We don't believe it was in existence as a hospital after about 1540."
The survey site will be an area of farmland opposite the entrance to Lose Hill Hall, on the southern side of the A625 Castleton Road.
As well as a geophysical survey, using special non-invasive techniques such as resistivity and magnetometry, a topographical survey will be conducted to study the contours of the land.
It will be carried out under the guidance of experts from the Archaeology department at the University of Sheffield.
Angela added: "We are keeping an open mind as there is no guarantee we will find anything, but it would be very exciting to find some evidence of some kind of buildings."
The Heritage Lottery Fund grant will also help finance a new display at the Society's museum in Castleton Information Centre.
Anybody wantingto know more about Castleton Historical Society should call Angela on 01433 620281.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 09:11:06
Cut road accidents on rural roads
The exceptional landscape of the national park draws in millions of visitors each year. Tragically, as a result, accident rates on some Peak District roads are among the highest in the UK, particularly among motorcycle users.
It cannot be right that those drawn to the Peak District by its beauty, or who live in the national park, should be at such a high risk.
Traditional road engineering solutions and the overuse of warning signs are both costly and unacceptable in a landscape of this quality.
The Department for Transport must support highways authorities to help reduce speed-related fatal accidents. One way of doing this would be to change its policy.
Currently, local authorities that want to reduce a speed limit on a rural road from 60mph to 50mph are required to put up lots of signs to make motorists aware of the new speed limit. This creates an unnecessary visual eyesore.
If the Department for Transport set the nationally recognised speed limit for rural roads at 50mph there would be no need for local authorities to put up warning signs. This would still allow local authorities the flexibility of changing speed limits to reflect local needs, such as reducing speeds to 30mph or lower in villages. The overall result would be safer roads but less visual impact on the beautiful Peak District landscape.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 09:05:40
It cannot be right that those drawn to the Peak District by its beauty, or who live in the national park, should be at such a high risk.
Traditional road engineering solutions and the overuse of warning signs are both costly and unacceptable in a landscape of this quality.
The Department for Transport must support highways authorities to help reduce speed-related fatal accidents. One way of doing this would be to change its policy.
Currently, local authorities that want to reduce a speed limit on a rural road from 60mph to 50mph are required to put up lots of signs to make motorists aware of the new speed limit. This creates an unnecessary visual eyesore.
If the Department for Transport set the nationally recognised speed limit for rural roads at 50mph there would be no need for local authorities to put up warning signs. This would still allow local authorities the flexibility of changing speed limits to reflect local needs, such as reducing speeds to 30mph or lower in villages. The overall result would be safer roads but less visual impact on the beautiful Peak District landscape.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-17 09:05:40
Speed Cameras
Derbyshire Safety Camera Partnership has revealed the locations for its mobile speed cameras for the next week.
Among them are B6179 Little Eaton; A609 Stanley Common; A6005 Draycott to Breaston; Ashbourne Road, Derby; B600 Somercotes; A6 London Road, Derby; Stenson Road, Derby; A632 Bolsover; A514 Swadlincote; B6179 Lower Kilburn to Little Eaton; and Acorn Way, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:37:24
Among them are B6179 Little Eaton; A609 Stanley Common; A6005 Draycott to Breaston; Ashbourne Road, Derby; B600 Somercotes; A6 London Road, Derby; Stenson Road, Derby; A632 Bolsover; A514 Swadlincote; B6179 Lower Kilburn to Little Eaton; and Acorn Way, Derby.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:37:24
Motorists beware in Ilkeston
Motorists could be stung with £30 to £60 fines for flouting speeding and parking laws in Ilkeston town centre in the run-up to Christmas.
Derbyshire Constabulary is organising a mini operation to target the offences.
The operation follows complaints regarding vehicles parked on yellow lines in South Street and Bath Street, speeding vehicles in South Street and vehicles failing to comply with the "access only" signs in Bath Street.
The operation is taking place on Thursday and Friday and the fixed penalty fines will range from £30 to £60 depending on the offence committed.
Ilkeston police Inspector Pete Szabo said: "Local residents and business owners have been complaining for some time about the blatant abuse of parking restrictions on and around Bath Street.
"This planned operation will target the vehicle users who choose to disregard clear warning signs and flout the law.
"I would advise people reading this to park sensibly and lawfully. The selfish minority who choose not to can expect to receive a parking ticket for ignoring signs and advice."
The police plan to run follow-up campaigns over the forthcoming months to ease parking problems within the town centre.
The operation aims to make the town safer for pedestrians, particularly older people, those with mobility problems and parents or carers of young children.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:32:13
Derbyshire Constabulary is organising a mini operation to target the offences.
The operation follows complaints regarding vehicles parked on yellow lines in South Street and Bath Street, speeding vehicles in South Street and vehicles failing to comply with the "access only" signs in Bath Street.
The operation is taking place on Thursday and Friday and the fixed penalty fines will range from £30 to £60 depending on the offence committed.
Ilkeston police Inspector Pete Szabo said: "Local residents and business owners have been complaining for some time about the blatant abuse of parking restrictions on and around Bath Street.
"This planned operation will target the vehicle users who choose to disregard clear warning signs and flout the law.
"I would advise people reading this to park sensibly and lawfully. The selfish minority who choose not to can expect to receive a parking ticket for ignoring signs and advice."
The police plan to run follow-up campaigns over the forthcoming months to ease parking problems within the town centre.
The operation aims to make the town safer for pedestrians, particularly older people, those with mobility problems and parents or carers of young children.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:32:13
Scenic rail route back on track
A Rural rail line which runs through a scenic valley is to carry its first passengers for 60 years.
Enthusiasts have restored the 3.5-mile route from the market town of Wirksworth to the village of Idridgehay, near Belper, through the beautiful Ecclesbourne valley.
The line will take its first paying passengers next March and tickets for the inaugural run go on sale next month.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:29:32
Enthusiasts have restored the 3.5-mile route from the market town of Wirksworth to the village of Idridgehay, near Belper, through the beautiful Ecclesbourne valley.
The line will take its first paying passengers next March and tickets for the inaugural run go on sale next month.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:29:32
Quarry battle set for High Court
A planning battle costing hundreds of thousands of pounds between the Peak District National Park Authority and a quarrying company continues to rumble through the courts with no settlement in sight.
For a decade, the Peak District National Park Authority and conservationists have been fighting in the courts to tackle what they see as an ugly blot on a stunning landscape.
Four times they have failed to get changes to a large opencast site on the side of Longstone Edge, near Bakewell, which can be seen from beauty spots for miles around.
And the wrangle now looks likely to end up in the High Court next year in an expensive, landmark action being carefully watched by national parks and local authorities with quarrying issues across the country.
The Peak District has been exploited for stone and minerals since pre-Roman times and the park has about 70 quarries, more than any other local authority in Britain.
About eight of that total are now said to be "headaches" for park officials because they say the companies have not chosen to run operations in line with modern environmental standards, with Backdale Quarry, on Longstone Edge, at the top of the list.
The authority wants to use the 1995 Environment Act to force changes into how some quarries operate.
Most of what the authority sees as the problem quarries have 70-year planning permissions going back to the post-war construction boom, way before modern planning requirements for quarries to restore the environment as they work, screen their sites and reduce pollution.
For technical and legal reasons over many years, park planning officers and the quarry owners have been unable to agree proposals to change the working practices at the Backdale operation.
Jim Dixon, chief executive of the national park, said: "Many quarries in the park have worked closely with planners on land restoration and screening and agreed to accept modern conditions. Others haven't."
As the law stands, the park is unable to force the quarry owners at Backdale to accept new ways of working, so it has been forced to pore over the terms of the 1952 permission in an attempt to prove the quarrying company is breaking them.
The quarry is owned by the Bakewell company Bleaklow Industries, while Leicestershire quarrying specialist MMC Mineral Processing operates it.
The 1952 permission allows quarrying for the mineral fluorspar, from which valuable forms of fluorine are refined for use in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
Derbyshire is one of very few areas in Britain which has rich fluorspar deposits.
It is usually formed in vertical veins in limestone. Rich veins can be 30ft wide and hundreds of feet deep.
In fluorspar mining, it is accepted that a lot of limestone must be removed to get at the mineral. But at Backdale, that had reached such massive proportions that the park planners reached the conclusion, in 2006, that Bleaklow and MMC were operating a limestone quarry, which happened to have some fluorspar in it, in contravention of its planning permission.
After three hearings in the High Court, the wrangle ended up before a planning inspector at a public inquiry in spring this year.
He accepted that hundreds of thousands of tonnes of rock were being quarried at Backdale every year at a rate of 91 tonnes of limestone to one tonne of fluorspar - against the ratio he recommended of two to one.
The inspector upheld an enforcement notice served by the park on the two quarry concerns in 2006, forbidding them from extracting any more stone "illegally". Work remains stalled.
But Bleaklow and MMC have now appealed against that decision, winning permission to challenge it in the High Court.
Observers think the total legal costs of the two sides over the years could easily have topped £1m but neither side wants to talk about it.
West Derbyshire Conservative MP Patrick McLoughlin, who has championed the park's attempts to regulate Backdale for years and has demanded new regulations to "tidy up" long-standing quarrying permissions, said the court ruling shocked him.
"I am appalled to find that this is back to square one," he said. "I thought the public inquiry was the end of it. I shall be writing to the Secretary of State for the Environment to point out that this cannot go on."
The park authority's fight is being backed by Friends of the Peak District, part of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England.
MMC refused to comment, but Robin Harpley, managing director of Bleaklow Industries, said the company would take the court case all the way. He said the firm had offered the park a restoration programme in the past, but this was refused.
"We have the legal right to quarry fluorspar and remove the limestone that surrounds it," he said. "When it comes down to it, that is that."
Mr Dixon said quarry owners, national park officers and councils nationally were watching with interest.
"We are here to enhance and protect this environment. We do not believe anyone should be allowed to quarry in this way outside a national park, never mind in one," he said.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:27:34
For a decade, the Peak District National Park Authority and conservationists have been fighting in the courts to tackle what they see as an ugly blot on a stunning landscape.
Four times they have failed to get changes to a large opencast site on the side of Longstone Edge, near Bakewell, which can be seen from beauty spots for miles around.
And the wrangle now looks likely to end up in the High Court next year in an expensive, landmark action being carefully watched by national parks and local authorities with quarrying issues across the country.
The Peak District has been exploited for stone and minerals since pre-Roman times and the park has about 70 quarries, more than any other local authority in Britain.
About eight of that total are now said to be "headaches" for park officials because they say the companies have not chosen to run operations in line with modern environmental standards, with Backdale Quarry, on Longstone Edge, at the top of the list.
The authority wants to use the 1995 Environment Act to force changes into how some quarries operate.
Most of what the authority sees as the problem quarries have 70-year planning permissions going back to the post-war construction boom, way before modern planning requirements for quarries to restore the environment as they work, screen their sites and reduce pollution.
For technical and legal reasons over many years, park planning officers and the quarry owners have been unable to agree proposals to change the working practices at the Backdale operation.
Jim Dixon, chief executive of the national park, said: "Many quarries in the park have worked closely with planners on land restoration and screening and agreed to accept modern conditions. Others haven't."
As the law stands, the park is unable to force the quarry owners at Backdale to accept new ways of working, so it has been forced to pore over the terms of the 1952 permission in an attempt to prove the quarrying company is breaking them.
The quarry is owned by the Bakewell company Bleaklow Industries, while Leicestershire quarrying specialist MMC Mineral Processing operates it.
The 1952 permission allows quarrying for the mineral fluorspar, from which valuable forms of fluorine are refined for use in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
Derbyshire is one of very few areas in Britain which has rich fluorspar deposits.
It is usually formed in vertical veins in limestone. Rich veins can be 30ft wide and hundreds of feet deep.
In fluorspar mining, it is accepted that a lot of limestone must be removed to get at the mineral. But at Backdale, that had reached such massive proportions that the park planners reached the conclusion, in 2006, that Bleaklow and MMC were operating a limestone quarry, which happened to have some fluorspar in it, in contravention of its planning permission.
After three hearings in the High Court, the wrangle ended up before a planning inspector at a public inquiry in spring this year.
He accepted that hundreds of thousands of tonnes of rock were being quarried at Backdale every year at a rate of 91 tonnes of limestone to one tonne of fluorspar - against the ratio he recommended of two to one.
The inspector upheld an enforcement notice served by the park on the two quarry concerns in 2006, forbidding them from extracting any more stone "illegally". Work remains stalled.
But Bleaklow and MMC have now appealed against that decision, winning permission to challenge it in the High Court.
Observers think the total legal costs of the two sides over the years could easily have topped £1m but neither side wants to talk about it.
West Derbyshire Conservative MP Patrick McLoughlin, who has championed the park's attempts to regulate Backdale for years and has demanded new regulations to "tidy up" long-standing quarrying permissions, said the court ruling shocked him.
"I am appalled to find that this is back to square one," he said. "I thought the public inquiry was the end of it. I shall be writing to the Secretary of State for the Environment to point out that this cannot go on."
The park authority's fight is being backed by Friends of the Peak District, part of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England.
MMC refused to comment, but Robin Harpley, managing director of Bleaklow Industries, said the company would take the court case all the way. He said the firm had offered the park a restoration programme in the past, but this was refused.
"We have the legal right to quarry fluorspar and remove the limestone that surrounds it," he said. "When it comes down to it, that is that."
Mr Dixon said quarry owners, national park officers and councils nationally were watching with interest.
"We are here to enhance and protect this environment. We do not believe anyone should be allowed to quarry in this way outside a national park, never mind in one," he said.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:27:34
Travellers talk
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is hosting a talk by Colin Hobday about his travels to Jordan in Western Asia.
The event will be held at St Peter's Church Hall, in Shepherd Street, Littleover, at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 22.
Admission is £1.50.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:23:43
The event will be held at St Peter's Church Hall, in Shepherd Street, Littleover, at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 22.
Admission is £1.50.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:23:43
Solar Pyramid is canned
News that plans for a £2.1m solar pyramid in Derbyshire have been scrapped after seven years have left people in the county "disappointed".
The 45-metre-high landmark was due to be built off the M1 in Staveley but its designers have called time on the plans after delays caused by "red tape".
It was announced yesterday that the giant pyramid, dubbed the East Midlands equivalent to the Angel of the North, could now be built in Poole, Dorset.
Work on the solar pyramid in Derbyshire was due to begin in spring next year at the site in Poolsbrook Country Park.
Planning permission had already been granted by Chesterfield Borough Council and it was hoped that the pyramid would become a major tourist attraction.
Council leader Ray Russell said: "We were looking forward immensely to it being built."
In 2006, more than 80 MPs backed a motion put forward by North East Derbyshire MP Natascha Engel to see the work of art created in Derbyshire. Mrs Engel said the latest news was a blow for the county.
"I just think it'll be a massive pity. I think people are really excited about it being built in Poolsbrook. I think everybody understands what an impact it would have on the surrounding area and on regeneration," she said.
The design is the brainchild of Matlock-based Richard Lester Swain and Adam Walkden, who run a company called Art in the Environment and first started working on the idea in 2001.
Their spokesman said the plans had been pulled due to a lack of support from regional development agencies and red tape.
The designers had approached East Midlands Development Agency for funding. But a spokeswoman for Emda said it had never earmarked a specific amount of cash for the pyramid.
She said: "Discussions with the developers failed to convince us of the feasibility of the business model."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:17:55
The 45-metre-high landmark was due to be built off the M1 in Staveley but its designers have called time on the plans after delays caused by "red tape".
It was announced yesterday that the giant pyramid, dubbed the East Midlands equivalent to the Angel of the North, could now be built in Poole, Dorset.
Work on the solar pyramid in Derbyshire was due to begin in spring next year at the site in Poolsbrook Country Park.
Planning permission had already been granted by Chesterfield Borough Council and it was hoped that the pyramid would become a major tourist attraction.
Council leader Ray Russell said: "We were looking forward immensely to it being built."
In 2006, more than 80 MPs backed a motion put forward by North East Derbyshire MP Natascha Engel to see the work of art created in Derbyshire. Mrs Engel said the latest news was a blow for the county.
"I just think it'll be a massive pity. I think people are really excited about it being built in Poolsbrook. I think everybody understands what an impact it would have on the surrounding area and on regeneration," she said.
The design is the brainchild of Matlock-based Richard Lester Swain and Adam Walkden, who run a company called Art in the Environment and first started working on the idea in 2001.
Their spokesman said the plans had been pulled due to a lack of support from regional development agencies and red tape.
The designers had approached East Midlands Development Agency for funding. But a spokeswoman for Emda said it had never earmarked a specific amount of cash for the pyramid.
She said: "Discussions with the developers failed to convince us of the feasibility of the business model."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:17:55
Ex-director of football Mackay is charged
Derby County's former director of football has been charged as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities at the club.
Murdo Mackay is accused of conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
His solicitor yesterday said that he denied any wrongdoing.
He is one of five people who have been arrested as part of inquiries, which began last year, into the takeover of the club in October 2003.
Mr Mackay is the third person to be charged in the last eight days.
The club's former chief executive, Jeremy Keith, and former finance director Andrew Mackenzie are facing the same charges as Mr Mackay.
Speaking on behalf of Mr Mackay yesterday, his solicitor, Stephen Burdon, said: "My client has assisted the police throughout this lengthy inquiry and refutes any allegation of inappropriate conduct in relation to Derby County Football Club.
"The evidence will show that all transactions involving Murdo Mackay were legitimate and that he always acted in the best interests of the club."
Police yesterday confirmed that a 52-year-old man had been charged.
A spokesman for Derbyshire police said: "Following a decision by the Crown Prosecution Service specialist fraud unit, police can confirm that a 52-year-old man has been charged in connection with an investigation into alleged financial irregularities within Derby County Football Club. He was charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
A police investigation, begun last year, centred on the takeover at Pride Park by Mr Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:16:27
Murdo Mackay is accused of conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
His solicitor yesterday said that he denied any wrongdoing.
He is one of five people who have been arrested as part of inquiries, which began last year, into the takeover of the club in October 2003.
Mr Mackay is the third person to be charged in the last eight days.
The club's former chief executive, Jeremy Keith, and former finance director Andrew Mackenzie are facing the same charges as Mr Mackay.
Speaking on behalf of Mr Mackay yesterday, his solicitor, Stephen Burdon, said: "My client has assisted the police throughout this lengthy inquiry and refutes any allegation of inappropriate conduct in relation to Derby County Football Club.
"The evidence will show that all transactions involving Murdo Mackay were legitimate and that he always acted in the best interests of the club."
Police yesterday confirmed that a 52-year-old man had been charged.
A spokesman for Derbyshire police said: "Following a decision by the Crown Prosecution Service specialist fraud unit, police can confirm that a 52-year-old man has been charged in connection with an investigation into alleged financial irregularities within Derby County Football Club. He was charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
A police investigation, begun last year, centred on the takeover at Pride Park by Mr Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:16:27
Swadlincote switch on
Swadlincote will be lit up when the town's Christmas lights are switched on.
The chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, Mick Bale, and his grandchildren will do the honours on Friday, November 30. The countdown starts at 7pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:13:49
The chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, Mick Bale, and his grandchildren will do the honours on Friday, November 30. The countdown starts at 7pm.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:13:49
Rams chairman rubbishes Disney report
Angry chairman Adam Pearson has rubbished a report that Derby County are to be bought by the Disney family.
A national newspaper today said Pearson had been negotiating a deal with a consortium of financial institutions headed by Shamrock Holdings, a company owned by 77-year-old billionaire Roy Disney, the nephew of Walt.
But the Rams chief has dismissed the report as cheap, damaging and grossly inaccurate.
His search for overseas invesment will continue but no deal is imminent.
Pearson said: "I stressed when I took on the chairmanship that I would not engage in media speculation with regard to investment.
"I will re-state again here that I won't be saying anything until a deal is done. At that stage, the fans of Derby County will be the first to know."
What do you expect when you have a Mickey Mouse team.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:11:09
A national newspaper today said Pearson had been negotiating a deal with a consortium of financial institutions headed by Shamrock Holdings, a company owned by 77-year-old billionaire Roy Disney, the nephew of Walt.
But the Rams chief has dismissed the report as cheap, damaging and grossly inaccurate.
His search for overseas invesment will continue but no deal is imminent.
Pearson said: "I stressed when I took on the chairmanship that I would not engage in media speculation with regard to investment.
"I will re-state again here that I won't be saying anything until a deal is done. At that stage, the fans of Derby County will be the first to know."
What do you expect when you have a Mickey Mouse team.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-15 11:11:09
Monday, November 12, 2007
Second arrest in Rams fraud probe
Another man has been charged by police investigating alleged financial irregularities at Derby County.
Police said today that a 43-year-old man had been charged following a decision by the Crown Prosecution Service's Specialist Fraud Unit.
The man answered police bail and was charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
The club's former finance director, Andrew Mackenzie, has also been charged with conspiracy to defraud.
He was one of five people arrested as part of inquiries into the takeover of the club in October 2003.
The 53-year-old was also charged after reporting back for bail.
The alleged financial irregularities relate to the takeover of Derby County Football Club in October 2003.
The investigation, which began last year, centred on the takeover at Pride Park Stadium by the previous board.
Jeremy Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding became Derby directors in October 2003 after the club was bought from administrative receivers for just £3, backed by a £15m loan from a Panamanian-registered company, the ABC Corporation.
Mr MacKenzie was also on the board, along with operations director Paul Clouting and Murdo Mackay, who was director of football.
Five men have been arrested as part of the police investigation.
The investigation is continuing.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-12 14:32:47
Police said today that a 43-year-old man had been charged following a decision by the Crown Prosecution Service's Specialist Fraud Unit.
The man answered police bail and was charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to conceal criminal property.
The club's former finance director, Andrew Mackenzie, has also been charged with conspiracy to defraud.
He was one of five people arrested as part of inquiries into the takeover of the club in October 2003.
The 53-year-old was also charged after reporting back for bail.
The alleged financial irregularities relate to the takeover of Derby County Football Club in October 2003.
The investigation, which began last year, centred on the takeover at Pride Park Stadium by the previous board.
Jeremy Keith, John Sleightholme and Steve Harding became Derby directors in October 2003 after the club was bought from administrative receivers for just £3, backed by a £15m loan from a Panamanian-registered company, the ABC Corporation.
Mr MacKenzie was also on the board, along with operations director Paul Clouting and Murdo Mackay, who was director of football.
Five men have been arrested as part of the police investigation.
The investigation is continuing.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-12 14:32:47
50 firefighters tackle Alton Towers blaze
Families were evacuated from part of Alton Towers as 50 firefighters tackled a blaze in a cable car station.Thrillseekers had been enjoying the Alton Towers Halloween Scarefest festival, when the fire broke out.
An area known as Forbidden Valley - which houses popular rides such as Nemesis and Air - was evacuated and cordoned off as a precautionary measure.
Crews from Cheadle, Ipstones and Uttoxeter were called to the tourist attraction just after 7.30pm on Sunday night.
The fire in one of the Sky Ride cable car stations was well alight when firefighters arrived.
Due to the scale of the incident more appliances were requested from Leek, Longton, Longnor and Stone.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using both main jets and hose reel jets.
Additional water was provided using portable pumps from the lake at the theme park. Relief crews were requested in the early morning from Burton, Newcastle, Burslem, Hanley, Rugeley and Ashley.
Bob Dagless, area commander, said "No firefighters were committed inside the building because there was a possibility of the roof collapsing and so the fire was fought externally.
"We managed to keep the fire confined to the roof space where it started and this is where the majority of the damage has been caused.
"The fire was brought under control at 4.30am but two crews remained at the scene during Monday morning, damping down and checking the area for any remaining pockets of fire."
A member of staff at Alton Towers, who didn't wish to be named, said: "At one point I was out on the car park and you could see a billowing cloud of smoke and the flames must have been about 40 foot high as you could see this massive glow from above the trees.
"I think the other rides kept going in the park to keep people happy.
"The fire engines did have a job getting near to it mainly due to the location the cable car station is in."
A spokesman for Alton Towers said: "The ride had been closed for some time, so there were no guests in the area.
"The fire service was called at 7.37pm and our own security attended the scene to try to extinguish the fire at 7.38pm.
"Even though no guests were involved, Forbidden Valley was evacuated as a precautionary measure and to allow easier access for the fire service. Three appliances were on site by 8pm.
"The Sky Ride will regrettably have to remain closed for the remainder of the season."
The park was open as usual at 9.30am on Monday morning, with the Forbidden Valley area of the park opening at 12 noon when the clean-up operation was completed.
Fire officers investigating the cause concluded that the fire was started accidentally by a halogen lamp. It was unclear if the halogen light was a permanent fixture, or whether it was a temporary light erected in the last few weeks for the Scarefest event.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:33:57
An area known as Forbidden Valley - which houses popular rides such as Nemesis and Air - was evacuated and cordoned off as a precautionary measure.
Crews from Cheadle, Ipstones and Uttoxeter were called to the tourist attraction just after 7.30pm on Sunday night.
The fire in one of the Sky Ride cable car stations was well alight when firefighters arrived.
Due to the scale of the incident more appliances were requested from Leek, Longton, Longnor and Stone.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using both main jets and hose reel jets.
Additional water was provided using portable pumps from the lake at the theme park. Relief crews were requested in the early morning from Burton, Newcastle, Burslem, Hanley, Rugeley and Ashley.
Bob Dagless, area commander, said "No firefighters were committed inside the building because there was a possibility of the roof collapsing and so the fire was fought externally.
"We managed to keep the fire confined to the roof space where it started and this is where the majority of the damage has been caused.
"The fire was brought under control at 4.30am but two crews remained at the scene during Monday morning, damping down and checking the area for any remaining pockets of fire."
A member of staff at Alton Towers, who didn't wish to be named, said: "At one point I was out on the car park and you could see a billowing cloud of smoke and the flames must have been about 40 foot high as you could see this massive glow from above the trees.
"I think the other rides kept going in the park to keep people happy.
"The fire engines did have a job getting near to it mainly due to the location the cable car station is in."
A spokesman for Alton Towers said: "The ride had been closed for some time, so there were no guests in the area.
"The fire service was called at 7.37pm and our own security attended the scene to try to extinguish the fire at 7.38pm.
"Even though no guests were involved, Forbidden Valley was evacuated as a precautionary measure and to allow easier access for the fire service. Three appliances were on site by 8pm.
"The Sky Ride will regrettably have to remain closed for the remainder of the season."
The park was open as usual at 9.30am on Monday morning, with the Forbidden Valley area of the park opening at 12 noon when the clean-up operation was completed.
Fire officers investigating the cause concluded that the fire was started accidentally by a halogen lamp. It was unclear if the halogen light was a permanent fixture, or whether it was a temporary light erected in the last few weeks for the Scarefest event.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:33:57
Get your 2008 Ashbourne calendar
STUNNING scenes of Ashbourne's best bits could be adorning your wall next year, as a new Ashbourne calendar goes on sale this week.
Photographer Ashley Franklin has spent the year snapping some of the finest views in the town, and researching some of its most important dates, and has compiled his first ever calendar for Ashbourne.
Everything from Shrovetide to Tissington Well Dressings has been represented in either montages or atmospheric pictures and, with the help of Ashbourne Partnership, each page carries snippets of information about the town.
Copies of the calendar are on sale now in the News Telegraph office, from Hallmark and Bookthrift in St John Street, Tunnicliffe's Newsagents and the Tourist Information Centre in the Market Place and from the St John Street Gallery.
They can also be purchased by calling Ashley on 01332 843908 or by emailing him at info@ashleyfranklin.co.uk
Ashbourne's other 2008 calendar - compiled by the Fairtrade initiative - is still selling well, with its creators still "very pleased" by its success.
The £5 collection of Ashbourne images is still on sale at the News Telegraph office, Natural Choice, the St John Street Gallery, the Co-op supermarket, and Blueberry Barn in The gallery off St John Street.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:28:41
Photographer Ashley Franklin has spent the year snapping some of the finest views in the town, and researching some of its most important dates, and has compiled his first ever calendar for Ashbourne.
Everything from Shrovetide to Tissington Well Dressings has been represented in either montages or atmospheric pictures and, with the help of Ashbourne Partnership, each page carries snippets of information about the town.
Copies of the calendar are on sale now in the News Telegraph office, from Hallmark and Bookthrift in St John Street, Tunnicliffe's Newsagents and the Tourist Information Centre in the Market Place and from the St John Street Gallery.
They can also be purchased by calling Ashley on 01332 843908 or by emailing him at info@ashleyfranklin.co.uk
Ashbourne's other 2008 calendar - compiled by the Fairtrade initiative - is still selling well, with its creators still "very pleased" by its success.
The £5 collection of Ashbourne images is still on sale at the News Telegraph office, Natural Choice, the St John Street Gallery, the Co-op supermarket, and Blueberry Barn in The gallery off St John Street.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:28:41
Derby County 0 West Ham 5
In hindsight, it was rather cruel of the organisers to make Derby County appear in the only Premier League fixture to be played at 3pm on this Saturday. After all, isolation at the bottom of the table is bad enough, and they really did not need to be pushed into another inglorious spotlight. Indeed, this performance was so shocking that a 2am kick-off on a Tuesday might have been more apt.
Not to take anything away from West Ham, who swaggered into the top 10 with this proudest of catwalks. Their win was as emphatic as it was welcome (this being their second victoryin their past seven League games). The East Enders have such pace, verve and blessed elan at their disposal that if and when they return to full strength, they will be some outfit.
Derby, in contrast, have a future that appears bleak until the season's end. Unless their manager, Billy Davies, can discover salvation in the January transfer window, that is.
He will have been comforted to read in the programme the assurances of the new chairman, Adam Pearson, that funds will be made available. The only question now is, how deep are the pockets? Davies can only pray the patience extends just as far.
His own certainly appears to be running out, despite the recognition that with three centre-halves and a left-back missing, and with a squad that is on the bald side of threadbare, there were mitigating factors.
"There is that as an excuse, but there is no excuse for the reaction after the first goal," said Davies. "In the first 20 minutes we had opportunities but after they scored it was men against boys." To be frank, the visitors did not have to do an awful lot to take the advantage into the break. Nolberto Solano's sweetlystruck free-kick was only denied by the bar on the half-hour,but no matter, as 12 minutes later Lee Bowyer capitalised on the Derby defence's incredible vanishing act by coolly drilling Carlton Cole's knock-down underneath the goalkeeper, Stephen Bywater.
In the meantime, Derby's challenge amounted to very little. In fact, slightly less than verylittle. It was soon to go lurching into the minus column, as West Ham, realising there was absolutely no need to play it tight, decided to make a day of it, scoring three times in eight minutes, four in 18.
The impressive Bowyer was involved in the second when being the straight man in a delightful one-two with Matthew Etherington – the winger beating Bywater in the 51st minute – and then grabbing his brace when applying the necessaries to Cole's cross in the 59th minute.
A few minutes earlier, Jonathan Spector had squeezed the ball under Eddie Lewis, who fell over his own feet on the line and comically nudged it in as a result. It was left for Solano to ram home the Rams' deficiencies, by this time locating the netting with a free-kick in the 69th minute.
And what of Derby's attacks? Erm, Kenny Miller did have one free header that drifted 10 yards wide. That summed up their day, as it threatens to sum up their campaign. They have now completed almost nine hours without a League goal, and unless they can find the target in their final League match of the month in two weeks' time, it will mean they would have failed to score in both October and November. That game happens to be against Chelsea. Ouch.
Davies' confidence appears undiminished, though, and afterwards Curbishley urged him to "dust himself down and hang in there". He intends to. "If I'd spent 30 or 40 million in the summer," barked Davies, "I'd be asking myself some questions." As it is, the fans are.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:23:02
Not to take anything away from West Ham, who swaggered into the top 10 with this proudest of catwalks. Their win was as emphatic as it was welcome (this being their second victoryin their past seven League games). The East Enders have such pace, verve and blessed elan at their disposal that if and when they return to full strength, they will be some outfit.
Derby, in contrast, have a future that appears bleak until the season's end. Unless their manager, Billy Davies, can discover salvation in the January transfer window, that is.
He will have been comforted to read in the programme the assurances of the new chairman, Adam Pearson, that funds will be made available. The only question now is, how deep are the pockets? Davies can only pray the patience extends just as far.
His own certainly appears to be running out, despite the recognition that with three centre-halves and a left-back missing, and with a squad that is on the bald side of threadbare, there were mitigating factors.
"There is that as an excuse, but there is no excuse for the reaction after the first goal," said Davies. "In the first 20 minutes we had opportunities but after they scored it was men against boys." To be frank, the visitors did not have to do an awful lot to take the advantage into the break. Nolberto Solano's sweetlystruck free-kick was only denied by the bar on the half-hour,but no matter, as 12 minutes later Lee Bowyer capitalised on the Derby defence's incredible vanishing act by coolly drilling Carlton Cole's knock-down underneath the goalkeeper, Stephen Bywater.
In the meantime, Derby's challenge amounted to very little. In fact, slightly less than verylittle. It was soon to go lurching into the minus column, as West Ham, realising there was absolutely no need to play it tight, decided to make a day of it, scoring three times in eight minutes, four in 18.
The impressive Bowyer was involved in the second when being the straight man in a delightful one-two with Matthew Etherington – the winger beating Bywater in the 51st minute – and then grabbing his brace when applying the necessaries to Cole's cross in the 59th minute.
A few minutes earlier, Jonathan Spector had squeezed the ball under Eddie Lewis, who fell over his own feet on the line and comically nudged it in as a result. It was left for Solano to ram home the Rams' deficiencies, by this time locating the netting with a free-kick in the 69th minute.
And what of Derby's attacks? Erm, Kenny Miller did have one free header that drifted 10 yards wide. That summed up their day, as it threatens to sum up their campaign. They have now completed almost nine hours without a League goal, and unless they can find the target in their final League match of the month in two weeks' time, it will mean they would have failed to score in both October and November. That game happens to be against Chelsea. Ouch.
Davies' confidence appears undiminished, though, and afterwards Curbishley urged him to "dust himself down and hang in there". He intends to. "If I'd spent 30 or 40 million in the summer," barked Davies, "I'd be asking myself some questions." As it is, the fans are.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:23:02
Calls for landmark bridge to be restored to former glory
A Derby businessman says it is "outrageous" that a landmark city bridge has been allowed to become an eyesore.
Simon Bucknell has called for action to restore the ornate Friar Gate Bridge, which is now covered in weeds despite being included in a conservation area
The 34-year-old said he was astonished the bridge had been given so little care, while millions of pounds was being spent on modernising other parts of the city centre.
He said: "It's important that Derby's heritage is kept up-to-date and looked after.
"The bridge is one of Derby's most important and visually engaging landmarks and has been allowed to become dilapidated."
Mr Bucknell, is director of East Midlands Business Services, which has its offices near the bridge.
He added: "How can Derby City Council justify investment in the future when a major landmark has been completely forgotten about?
"As Derby grows and becomes a more modern city, it is even more important to conserve the past. This is absolutely shameful."
Ann Loach, owner of The Cob Shop, under the bridge, said: "I would be delighted if it was painted up. It's a lovely old structure.
"It would also be good for the area if some money was spent on this end of the city.
"It's a lovely old bridge and a lot of people come into the shop and comment on it."
Solicitor Michael Mallender, whose offices are close to the bridge, and also a member of the council's conservation area advisory committee, said the issue was being kept under review.
"It does need weeding and we are concerned about the bridge.
"But it's not just a matter of somebody doing a patch job on the bridge itself, it's part of a wider project.
"It's tied up with the development of the Friar Gate Goods Yard site and the possible use of the bridge structure in relation to that site.
"The committee has considered a number of plans for the development of the site and we are concerned about the state of the listed railway buildings.
"But it's a question of a viable proposal to lay the site out using the listed buildings at its heart."
A city council spokeswoman said: "We are concerned about the bridge.
"We are actively trying to get a bid together for some external funding for a refurbishment of the bridge and improvements to the surrounding area."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:05:59
Simon Bucknell has called for action to restore the ornate Friar Gate Bridge, which is now covered in weeds despite being included in a conservation area
The 34-year-old said he was astonished the bridge had been given so little care, while millions of pounds was being spent on modernising other parts of the city centre.
He said: "It's important that Derby's heritage is kept up-to-date and looked after.
"The bridge is one of Derby's most important and visually engaging landmarks and has been allowed to become dilapidated."
Mr Bucknell, is director of East Midlands Business Services, which has its offices near the bridge.
He added: "How can Derby City Council justify investment in the future when a major landmark has been completely forgotten about?
"As Derby grows and becomes a more modern city, it is even more important to conserve the past. This is absolutely shameful."
Ann Loach, owner of The Cob Shop, under the bridge, said: "I would be delighted if it was painted up. It's a lovely old structure.
"It would also be good for the area if some money was spent on this end of the city.
"It's a lovely old bridge and a lot of people come into the shop and comment on it."
Solicitor Michael Mallender, whose offices are close to the bridge, and also a member of the council's conservation area advisory committee, said the issue was being kept under review.
"It does need weeding and we are concerned about the bridge.
"But it's not just a matter of somebody doing a patch job on the bridge itself, it's part of a wider project.
"It's tied up with the development of the Friar Gate Goods Yard site and the possible use of the bridge structure in relation to that site.
"The committee has considered a number of plans for the development of the site and we are concerned about the state of the listed railway buildings.
"But it's a question of a viable proposal to lay the site out using the listed buildings at its heart."
A city council spokeswoman said: "We are concerned about the bridge.
"We are actively trying to get a bid together for some external funding for a refurbishment of the bridge and improvements to the surrounding area."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-11-11 11:05:59
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