Derbyshire Conservatives can run but they can’t hide from the voters

The Government has rejected Derbyshire Conservatives’  request to cancel to the local elections in May. This is great news! I have been campaigning against these proposals from the start, including writing to ministers urging them to reject Derbyshire Conservatives attempts to accelerate the abolition of High Peak Borough Council and cancel the May elections.

Derbyshire Conservatives are running scared of the voters having a say on their appalling mismanagement of the council. Derbyshire Conservatives have all but bankrupted the council. Led us to being dubbed the ‘Pothole Capital of the UK’ by the RAC. Shamefully let down children with SEND and their families with an OFSTED report finding “widespread and systemic failings.” Left older people distraught with plans to axe our care homes and adult days centres. And abandoned local people and community groups across High Peak by trying to close our vital community centres.

With a record like that it is no wonder they wanted the local elections cancelling.

The Government rejecting Derbyshire Conservatives plans also stops them forcing through their plans for a whole a whole Derbyshire council, covering 800,000 people. High Peak would have a 10% say in such a council and we would inevitably end up continuing to be the poor relations and forgotten about. For too long we have been the first place to suffer cuts and the last place to get investment.

Derbyshire Conservatives submitted their proposals for a whole Derbyshire council with no consultation. I believe we need a proper debate. This is a once in generation decision and we must get it right for our children and grandchildren.

The local elections going ahead means that we now have more time and opportunity for careful consideration and consultation on what deal will deliver the best possible outcome for each of our towns and villages in terms of improved public services, greater accountability and more opportunities for new jobs and investment.

My promise to you is that I will always be an honest broker for High Peak. This is my home, and I want what is best for our future, wherever it takes us.