2019 AGM report

Our 2019 AGM, held at The National Stone Centre, Matlock (June 15th 2019) was an interesting and informative day.  It was well attended, with 30 members present.

After arrival and coffee, we were given a conducted tour of the Centre by our very knowledgeable guide, who explained much about the geology of the area as well as the local quarrying history. It was obvious how well this was received from the many questions that were asked.

These meetings are an opportunity for members to raise their individual concerns with the wider branch membership and Darrell Clarke from Chesterfield asked members to support a campaign against Fly Posting. He shared numerous examples from around the county and it was agreed to follow up with the Strategic Director of Transport and Environment at Derbyshire County Council to register our concerns.

At the formal AGM, in the Annual Report from the Executive Committee, the role of the committee was explained as to:
• Monitor planning and development proposals
• Make collective decisions and give branch comments on developments. A branch member will lead on this, make a site visit and the committee decides if to make an objection.
• Respond to Local Plans consultations for all the different areas. It is a long process through consultations and drafts etc., but we have responded to all of them.
• Liaise with national CPRE and respond to any requests and reviews. In 2019 we responded to the new CPRE Strategic Review.

An update was provided on the various objections and comments we have made to planning developments we considered harmful to the countryside. We also told members about the current state of Local Plans throughout the branch area.

During the financial summary, which showed that there were still currently enough reserves to continue to operate as we do, it was agreed that we should continue to use the funds, where necessary to contract expertise to support objections and appeals.

The day concluded with a well-received talk by Crewenna Dymond, CPRE’s new Director for Volunteering and Partnerships. She explained how she hopes her role will support branches in their efforts to find and retain more active volunteers. She also gave an update on CPRE’s new Strategic Review.