Ilkeston Today

27/10/2023

Is Erewash Borough Council's Climate Emergency Declaration Backed by Action?

Erewash Borough Council, like many local authorities, has declared a climate emergency, signifying their commitment to environmental concerns. However, recent decisions by the council have raised questions about whether their actions align with this declaration.

Words vs. Actions

Declaring a climate emergency is a crucial step, but its true test lies in the practical measures taken. Erewash Borough Council's recent decisions, like charging residents for green waste collection and closing recycling centres, appear contradictory to their environmental commitment.

Environmental Impact

Charging for green waste collection can discourage recycling and lead to more waste in landfills, increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Closing recycling centres may force residents to travel longer distances, generating more carbon emissions, offsetting any recycling benefits.

Demand for Accountability

Residents should seek transparency and accountability. If the council genuinely wishes to address the climate emergency, they should reconsider these actions and explore more sustainable solutions.

In a world where environmental sustainability is paramount, actions speak louder than words. Erewash Borough Council must be held responsible for shaping a greener, more sustainable Erewash.

25/09/2023

Erewash Borough Council's Recycling Centre Closure Sparks Fly-Tipping Fears

Erewash Borough Council, now under Labour control, has made a startling announcement: the closure of a key recycling centre. This decision has sent shockwaves through the community, with concerns rising that fly-tipping is poised to surge in the area.

The recycling centre, once a symbol of sustainability and community involvement, is set to close this month, leaving residents with limited options for responsible waste disposal. This move could result in an environmental crisis, as the closure of this essential facility may encourage fly-tipping.

Fly-tipping, the illegal dumping of waste, harms communities and the environment. The closure of Erewash's recycling centre may worsen this issue, leading to illegal dumping and further environmental damage.

Erewash Borough Council's decision appears shortsighted. While they cite budget constraints, they fail to acknowledge the long-term costs of this choice. The council overlooks the link between accessible recycling centres and reduced fly-tipping incidents. This decision goes against the fight against climate change and environmental sustainability.

In a time when climate change is a pressing concern, Erewash Borough Council's move sends the wrong message. Instead of promoting recycling and waste reduction, they inadvertently endorse illegal dumping and pollution.

The consequences of fly-tipping are significant, harming wildlife, habitats, and the efforts of those committed to environmental preservation. The recycling centre’s closure undermines community efforts to encourage responsible waste disposal.

Erewash Borough Council must reconsider this decision, invest in the community's future and environment, and expand and enhance recycling centres. Instead of closing centres, they should promote recycling and discourage fly-tipping.

Inaction will worsen the fly-tipping crisis and taint the council's legacy. It's time for the council to act responsibly, prioritise the environment, and reverse this decision before it's too late. Our environment and future generations depend on it.

22/09/2023

The Future of Ilkeston Town Centre: Erewash Borough Council's Plan Amidst Wilko's Closure and Parking Charge Increases

Wilko's departure from our town centre is undeniably a significant blow. It leaves a noticeable void in the retail landscape, affecting both the convenience of local shopping and the overall vibrancy of our community hub. However, it also underscores the broader challenges facing brick-and-mortar retailers in the digital age.

Without Wilko, we may see:

• Reduced Foot Traffic: Wilko attracted a steady stream of customers, benefiting neighboring businesses. Its absence could lead to decreased footfall in the town centre.

• Job Losses: The closure of a large retailer often results in job losses, impacting local employment opportunities.

• Empty Storefronts: An empty retail space can deter other businesses from setting up shop in the area, creating a domino effect of vacancies.

Erewash Borough Council's approach to the future of our town centre has raised concerns among residents, as it appears to be lacking a comprehensive plan. The closure of significant businesses like Wilko has left a void in our community, and many are looking to the council for guidance on how to revitalise the heart of our town. However, there has been limited communication from the council regarding a concrete strategy for attracting new businesses, improving infrastructure, or fostering a vibrant atmosphere in the town centre. This lack of a clear vision has left residents uncertain about the future and eager for more proactive and transparent leadership from their local government.

Furthermore, amidst the uncertainty surrounding the future of our town centre, rumours have been circulating that the council is contemplating further increases in car parking charges. This potential move has added to the apprehension within the community. While it's understandable that the council may need additional revenue to support town centre improvements, many residents are worried that such increases could deter visitors, exacerbating the challenges faced by local businesses and making it even harder to breathe new life into our town centre. The lack of clarity and transparency regarding these rumoured changes only deepens the concerns of residents, who are seeking a clear and constructive plan that takes into account the needs and aspirations of the local community.

15/09/2023

Erewash Borough Council's Bin Tax: A Shocking Burden on Residents

Erewash Borough Council's recent introduction of a bin tax has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many residents baffled and frustrated. This new tax, essentially a 30% council tax hike for Band A payers, is a glaring example of financial mismanagement and a disregard for the well-being of the very people the council is meant to serve.

The rationale behind this controversial move? To fund a so-called "cost of living action plan." However, a closer examination of this plan reveals a disconcerting trend. Instead of addressing the genuine concerns of Erewash residents grappling with the soaring cost of living, it seems that the council's primary agenda is to create more bureaucratic jobs at the town hall.

The fundamental question remains: Why should hardworking taxpayers shoulder the burden of a scheme that appears to serve the interests of the council rather than the local community? The imposition of a bin tax, which was previously considered a basic service, raises serious doubts about the council's priorities and its commitment to responsible governance.

Local authorities must demonstrate fiscal responsibility and prioritise the welfare of their residents over their own interests. Erewash Borough Council's decision to burden its taxpayers with exorbitant bin tax charges while seemingly using the proceeds to expand bureaucracy, rather than providing tangible relief to residents, is a troubling example of public servants losing sight of their true purpose.

In these challenging times, residents deserve transparent, accountable, and responsible leadership that genuinely addresses their concerns. Erewash Borough Council's actions have fallen far short of this standard, and it is high time they reconsider their approach and put the needs of their community first.

Welcome to Erewash Borough Council

11/09/2023

Despite strong objections from the community, the Labour-controlled Erewash Borough Council's insistence on proceeding with the sale of 1.43 acres of land off Wardlow Road (DE7 8TE) is concerning. This decision disregards the valid concerns of residents and raises doubts about the council's commitment to democratic principles and community well-being. The council should reevaluate this decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with the community to ensure responsible and accountable governance.

11/09/2023

Erewash Borough Council's Dubious Choices: Brown Bin Charges and the Cost of Living Action Plan

Erewash Borough Council's recent decision to charge residents for emptying their brown bins has stirred up controversy and cast doubts on the council's priorities. While they argue that these charges will finance a "Cost of Living Action Plan," one cannot help but question how long it will be before Erewash finds itself in a situation akin to that of Birmingham.

At first glance, the concept of a Cost of Living Action Plan may seem commendable and beneficial for the community. After all, the rising cost of living is a legitimate concern for many people. Nevertheless, it is imperative to scrutinize the means by which this plan is being funded and whether it aligns with the council's responsibilities.

Charging residents for the disposal of garden waste and food scraps through their brown bins is an ill-conceived approach to generating revenue. These bins serve an essential environmental purpose, encouraging recycling and reducing landfill waste. By imposing fees on their use, the council appears to be penalizing residents for their efforts to adopt eco-friendly practices.

Moreover, it raises questions about the council's fiscal management. If the council is grappling with financial constraints, it should explore alternative revenue sources or allocate its existing resources more judiciously. The introduction of charges for brown bin collections seems to be a hasty solution that targets residents who are already striving to minimize their environmental footprint.

The comparisons with Birmingham are not unfounded in this context. Birmingham City Council faced severe financial difficulties in recent years, resulting in cuts to essential services and a deterioration of overall city infrastructure. The imposition of exorbitant charges and the mismanagement of funds were contributing factors to this dire situation. Erewash Borough Council must heed these lessons rather than replicate them.

The decision to allocate the revenue generated from brown bin charges to the Cost of Living Action Plan may be viewed as a tactical move. However, it is imperative to ensure transparency and accountability in how these funds are expended. Residents have a right to know how their money is being employed to address the cost of living concerns within the community.

25/08/2023

Erewash Borough Council's Moves to Charge for Brown Bins and Remove Recycling Banks: A Short-Sighted Approach

The recent decisions by the council to institute charges for brown bins and eliminate household waste recycling bring banks have ignited widespread concern and criticism. These choices not only exhibit a lack of forward-thinking but also hold the potential to disproportionately impact the most financially vulnerable members of our community, all while posing a threat to our environment.

The council's choice to impose fees for brown bin collection is a move that seems to disproportionately affect individuals already grappling with economic challenges. This decision places an undue financial burden on low-income households, which can result in difficult choices between essential needs and waste disposal. This practice is inherently unfair and disregards the principle of social equality that our community should strive to uphold.

Equally worrying is the council's proposal to remove the household waste recycling bring banks. These recycling points serve as important incentives for responsible waste management and recycling practices. The removal of these banks deprives residents of a convenient and accessible means to appropriately dispose of recyclable items. This alteration could potentially lead to an increase in instances of improper waste disposal, harming both the environment and our ongoing sustainability objectives.

Beyond the immediate implications for residents, these decisions hold grave environmental consequences. The implementation of charges for brown bins might discourage proper disposal of garden and organic waste, potentially resulting in increased instances of burning or incorrect disposal methods. These practices release detrimental pollutants into the atmosphere and soil, posing a serious risk to the environment. Additionally, the removal of recycling banks could result in more recyclable materials finding their way into landfills, directly undermining our efforts to reduce waste and promote ecologically responsible practices.

It is imperative for the council to reconsider these decisions promptly. The introduction of charges for essential waste disposal services and the elimination of recycling options disproportionately target the most economically fragile within our community, while also holding the potential to cause lasting harm to our environment. Instead of perpetuating social and environmental inequalities, the council should explore alternative avenues that place paramount importance on equitable access to vital services and the cultivation of sustainable waste management practices. This would undoubtedly benefit all members of our community and help safeguard the wellbeing of our shared environment.

18/08/2023

Ilkeston Council's Inaction Fuels Alarming Rise in Anti-Social Behavior: A Demand for Immediate Remedies

The once serene streets of Ilkeston have fallen victim to an unsettling upsurge in anti-social behavior, casting a somber shadow over the town's once-tranquil ambiance. As the community grapples with distressing incidents of drug dealing, disorderly drinking, and even public urination, the local council's response to these issues leaves much to be desired. The recent closure of a flat that had become a haven for criminal activities, coupled with the alarming incidents of attacks on Trentbarton buses, underscores the pressing need for the council to take assertive action in curbing anti-social behavior, safeguarding the welfare of its residents, and restoring the town's peace and security.

The once-vibrant market square, which used to be the heartbeat of community interaction, now bears the brunt of frequent incidents of anti-social behavior. The council must do more to maintain a semblance of order in this pivotal public space is indicative of its failure to ensure a safe environment for both residents and visitors. The atmosphere of unease that hangs over the market square not only taints the town's reputation but also creates an inhospitable climate that hampers economic activities and communal engagement.

The incidents involving attacks on Trentbarton buses in Ilkeston and Kirk Hallam are equally distressing. These incidents reflect a deterioration of civility and respect within the community. The council's lack of proactive intervention to prevent such attacks raises concerns about its dedication to preserving public safety and nurturing a harmonious coexistence. These occurrences should serve as a stark reminder that if left unchecked, anti-social behavior can escalate into more serious criminal activity, jeopardizing the overall welfare of the community.

The council is now faced with the imperative task of taking swift, comprehensive action to address the mounting tide of anti-social behavior in Ilkeston. This necessitates heightened police presence, increased community engagement initiatives.

Furthermore, active community involvement is of utmost importance. Empowering residents, business proprietors, and other stakeholders to voice their concerns and contribute to crafting solutions is crucial. By cultivating a sense of shared responsibility, the council can foster a unified stance against anti-social behavior and work diligently to restore Ilkeston's reputation as a peaceful, flourishing community.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-66401531

18/08/2023

Erewash Borough Council's Inaction Fuels Alarming Rise in Anti-Social Behavior: A Demand for Immediate Remedies

The once serene streets of Ilkeston have fallen victim to an unsettling upsurge in anti-social behavior, casting a somber shadow over the town's once-tranquil ambiance. As the community grapples with distressing incidents of drug dealing, disorderly drinking, and even public urination, the local council's response to these issues leaves much to be desired. The recent closure of a flat that had become a haven for criminal activities, coupled with the alarming incidents of attacks on Trentbarton buses, underscores the pressing need for the council to take assertive action in curbing anti-social behavior, safeguarding the welfare of its residents, and restoring the town's peace and security.

The once-vibrant market square, which used to be the heartbeat of community interaction, now bears the brunt of frequent incidents of anti-social behavior. The council must do more to maintain a semblance of order in this pivotal public space is indicative of its failure to ensure a safe environment for both residents and visitors. The atmosphere of unease that hangs over the market square not only taints the town's reputation but also creates an inhospitable climate that hampers economic activities and communal engagement.

The incidents involving attacks on Trentbarton buses in Ilkeston and Kirk Hallam are equally distressing. These incidents reflect a deterioration of civility and respect within the community. The council's lack of proactive intervention to prevent such attacks raises concerns about its dedication to preserving public safety and nurturing a harmonious coexistence. These occurrences should serve as a stark reminder that if left unchecked, anti-social behavior can escalate into more serious criminal activity, jeopardizing the overall welfare of the community.

The council is now faced with the imperative task of taking swift, comprehensive action to address the mounting tide of anti-social behavior in Ilkeston. This necessitates heightened police presence, increased community engagement initiatives.

Furthermore, active community involvement is of utmost importance. Empowering residents, business proprietors, and other stakeholders to voice their concerns and contribute to crafting solutions is crucial. By cultivating a sense of shared responsibility, the council can foster a unified stance against anti-social behavior and work diligently to restore Ilkeston's reputation as a peaceful, flourishing community.

Officers secure a closure order for the property after neighbours say they were "living in fear".

29/07/2023

Controversial Planning Application for 263-Home Development at Spondon woods in Erewash to be submitted within weeks.

A highly contentious planning application to be submitted within weeks for a 263-home development on Erewash's greenbelt land, igniting debates about sacrificing precious natural spaces for urban expansion. With the application due in weeks, proponents argue it will urgently address housing needs, while critics express concerns about environmental impact and loss of biodiversity. The promise of only 10% affordable housing onsite has been met with disappointment, as the council seeks funding for an additional 20% elsewhere. As tensions rise, community engagement remains crucial in shaping a development that balances housing demands with preserving Erewash's unique identity and green spaces.

25/07/2023

Erewash Partnership Ilkeston Classic Car Show: A Roaring Success!

The Erewash Partnership Ilkeston Classic Car Show was a dazzling celebration of automotive history. Classic car enthusiasts from all over flocked to witness the meticulously restored vintage beauties on display. The event brought the community together for a day of fun and philanthropy, raising funds for local projects. It was a memorable day of nostalgia and camaraderie that left attendees in awe.

24/07/2023

Following Keir Starmer vows to back 'builders not blockers' Labour-Controlled Erewash Borough Council's have made a Greenbelt Gamble: Leaving Our Greenbelt Without Any Protection from Speculative Development.

In a shocking display of short-sightedness and irresponsibility, the Labour-controlled Erewash Borough Council has made a disastrous decision that puts the cherished greenbelt areas at risk. Withdrawing the local plan, the very blueprint designed to protect our beautiful green spaces from developers, has set a dangerous precedent that could spell doom for our community's future.

Without the local plan, our greenbelt areas are left vulnerable to speculative development. These are no longer protected havens for wildlife, nature enthusiasts, and families seeking a breath of fresh air amidst the urban landscape. Instead, they will become unprotected with no regard for the ecological and aesthetic value these green spaces bring to our region.

One of the first victims of this reckless gamble is likely to be the 196-house plans proposed between Stanton, Ilkeston, and Kirk Hallam. With no local plan to support their case, the council's appeal is hanging by a thread, leaving us on the brink of losing a battle that should have been easily won. Not only has the council failed to safeguard our greenbelt, but their incompetence could also cost taxpayers a staggering £100,000 in legal costs - money that could have been better spent on essential community projects.

One must question the reasoning behind such a decision. Was it due to a lack of foresight or a blatant disregard for the wishes of the residents they were elected to represent? Whatever the case, the consequences are clear: our greenbelt is now exposed to a potential onslaught of uncontrolled development, forever altering the character of our beloved borough.

It is evident that the Labour-controlled Erewash Borough Council is more interested in playing political games than in ensuring the well-being of its constituents. This withdrawal of the local plan showcases their failure to prioritise the protection of the environment and the interests of the local community.

While some may argue that development is essential for progress, it should not come at the expense of destroying our natural heritage. Sustainable development can coexist with responsible environmental practices, but without a well-thought-out local plan, we are left with a free-for-all where developers can run rampant, putting profit before people.

The Council must be held accountable for this grievous mistake. Residents need to demand transparency and answers about the reasoning behind this fateful decision. Let us remind our elected officials that they are here to serve us and our interests, not to sacrifice our greenbelt for political convenience.