The Government asked us to come up with a proposal for simplifying how councils operate, bringing all council services under one roof.

We looked at different options and all of the evidence we gathered and the analysis we carried out suggested that reducing the number of councils in Derby and Derbyshire from 10 down to one unitary council for the whole area is the best option for local residents and businesses. This is the proposal we’ve submitted to Government as our preferred option for local government reorganisation.

Local town and parish councils are not included in the reorganisation and will remain.

Government is expected to carry out a statutory consultation early in 2026 on all submitted proposals which meet the conditions set for local government reform.

Scammers love this time of year. Don't let them ruin your Christmas.

Our trading standards officers recommend shopping only with reputable retailers and checking that the website address starts with https, shows a padlock symbol and matches the official site. Shoppers should watch for small typos in URLs (web addresses) and avoid links in texts and emails.

Be cautious of social media adverts or unexpected messages. AI 'deep fake' videos are commonly used to make a famous person look like they are endorsing a product when it is not really them.

Don’t click links in texts or emails or on social media. Go only to a retailer’s official site.

Messages about missed deliveries with links should be ignored. This is a particularly big issue leading up to Christmas as people are typically making more online purchases and expecting more deliveries as a result. If a parcel is expected, contact the delivery company through its official site or app.

Since the new approach was launched, the library service has been busy implementing the first phase of its five-year plan, with the strong progress detailed in a report to be discussed by our Cabinet next week (Thursday 4 December).

Savings of £910,000 were integrated into the strategy to be achieved in a phased programme, while other aims include reflecting changing patterns of library use and ensuring the service is sustainable and remains as accessible, flexible, efficient and cost-effective as possible for future years.

Cabinet will also be asked to discontinue the proposed relocation of Clay Cross Library.

If you’re a landowner considering tree planting, our team at Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest can help ensure trees are planted safely and in the right places.

We’ll advise on land suitability, the best locations, and appropriate species – always with safety and sustainability in mind.

Government grants are available for planting along Derbyshire’s eastern fringe and southern areas to cover funding for tree planting, hedgerows, fencing and gate installation, advice and support and ongoing maintenance to ensure new woodlands thrive.