Ian Barwell
Feb 20, 2026
Glossop Tip Under Threat as Council Rejects Fight to Keep It Open |
Plus half term events, fell runner heroes, and a Bakewell gem on the market for £450k |
Glossop's Household Waste Recycling Centre moved a step closer to closure after Derbyshire County Council voted down an amendment to keep it open during a heated budget debate on Wednesday 11th of February.
Conservative Councillor Jean Wharmby proposed allocating £300,000 from reserves to keep the site running for another year, pointing to £2.6 million in unexpected central government funding the council had just received.
Thirteen councillors from across the political spectrum spoke against the closure. Reform Councillor Jason Isherwood broke ranks with his own party's leadership, telling the chamber:
"My first loyalty is to the residents who elected me. Glossop HWRC is not a nice to have — it is a working public service that thousands of households rely on."
Labour Councillor Damien Greenhalgh called the proposal "a huge mistake and a disaster for Glossop," questioning the data used to justify the closure.
Despite the opposition, the amendment was defeated. A final decision on the tip's future is expected in June 2026 following further review.
Residents fear the closure will force them to travel to Buxton — a journey many consider unrealistic, particularly for older people and families during winter months. |
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Quote Of The Day |
"Fresh air and stunning views provide the perfect escape from everyday worries. Climb in the High Peak in Derbyshire and reconnect with nature today." |
"Peak District National Park Authority Plans Grand 75th Anniversary Celebrations in 2026" |
The Peak District National Park Authority is gearing up for the 75th anniversary celebrations in 2026. The Peak District National Park, located in the UK, is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as day hiking and backpacking. The celebrations will highlight the park's history and achievements over the past 75 years, as well as showcase the natural beauty and recreational opportunities it offers. Visitors can expect special events, exhibitions, and activities throughout the year to commemorate this milestone anniversary. The Peak District National Park Authority is committed to preserving and protecting the park for future generations to enjoy, and the celebrations will serve as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining this natural treasure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, the 75th anniversary celebrations in 2026 are sure to be a memorable and inspiring experience for all who visit the Peak District National Park. |
Trivia Question❓The High Peak in Derbyshire is famous for being home to the stunning natural landmark known as Kinder Scout. Can you guess how tall Kinder Scout is in metres? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
Mountain rescue teams responded to a call in the Peak District's tallest peak when two brothers were stuck in -5C conditions.
A pair of fell runners came across the brothers and provided assistance until the mountain rescue team arrived.
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Which Peak District Town Made the UK Romance List? |
It's official - our corner of the Peak District has been recognised as one of the most romantic spots in the country, and frankly, nobody who's walked along the River Wye on a crisp winter morning will be arguing.
Sykes Holiday Cottages has named Bakewell in its top 10 most romantic UK destinations, ranking it ninth on a list compiled to help couples "reconnect and spend quality time together."
The town earned its place for riverside walks along the Wye, cycling routes on the Monsal Trail, and the kind of scenery that makes people stop mid-stride to take it all in.
If that's not enough, Chatsworth House is on the doorstep - where you can wander the estate and briefly convince yourself you're in a period drama.
Round the day off with dinner at the Rutland Arms brasserie in the market square, and you've got a pretty hard-to-beat day.
And obviously, no trip to Bakewell is complete without a Bakewell Tart. Romantic? Perhaps. Non-negotiable? Absolutely.
Whether you're a local who takes all this for granted or someone planning a visit, it's a good reminder that we live somewhere genuinely special. |
Residents Rally Against £60m CO2 Pipeline Plan Through the Peak District |
A controversial proposal to build a 121-mile underground carbon capture pipeline from the Peak District to the Irish Sea is drawing fierce opposition from High Peak residents.
Peak Cluster, a collaboration between cement and lime producers in Derbyshire and Staffordshire, wants to capture carbon dioxide from four industrial sites - including Buxton Lime's Tunstead plant, Breedon's Hope cement works, Tarmac's Tunstead cement plant, and Holcim's Cauldon works in Staffordshire - and pump it beneath the seabed.
The Government has committed £28.6 million towards the estimated £59.6 million project, with private firms funding the remainder.
Peak Cluster claims the scheme would prevent over three million tonnes of CO2 entering the atmosphere each year while protecting jobs in the cement and lime industries.
But residents in the Hope Valley and across the High Peak are pushing back hard. A Facebook group - Peak Cluster CO2 Pipeline in High Peak - has already attracted over 600 members.
A petition on Change.org is calling on the Government to pause all UK offshore CO2 storage projects until a full independent safety and environmental assessment is completed.
The consultation runs until 27 February, with local events in Buxton and Hope Valley giving residents the chance to raise concerns about the pipeline route, the location of above-ground installations, and the impact on property and land.
Derbyshire County Council and the Peak District National Park Authority are both taking part in the consultation process.
High Peak Borough Council has also published information about the project on its website.
CPRE Peak District and South Yorkshire has published a detailed breakdown of the proposals and is encouraging communities to respond.
If approved, Peak Cluster aims to submit a Development Consent Order in 2027, with construction expected to take three years across four counties. |
Interesting Fact |
The Peak District National Park is home to the iconic geological formation known as the "Roaches." The area has a rich history of lead mining, with many abandoned mines and industrial remains still visible today.
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🏘️ Your Guide to Getting Involved |
From history and wildlife to photography, rambling, and coffee mornings, there’s a vibrant social scene right on your doorstep across Buxton, Bakewell, Matlock, and the High Peak.
Whether you’re new to the area or looking for a new hobby, here is your at-a-glance guide to regular meetings and groups.
📆 MONDAYBurbage Church Bell Ringers
Bakewell Photo Club (Fortnightly)
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – Wye & Upper Derwent Group (3rd Mon, Sep–Apr) 📆 TUESDAYMatlock & District Rifle Club (Tue & Fri)
Furness Vale History Society (1st Tue)
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – High Peak Group (2nd Tue, Oct–Apr)
Fairfield WI (4th Tue)
Language Circles at the Cheshire Cheese, Buxton 📆 WEDNESDAYChapel-en-le-Frith Rambling Club (Weds)
High Peak Photography Club (Weds, Sept–Apr)
Rotary Club of Bakewell (1st & 3rd Weds)
Buxton & District Ladies’ Probus Club (2nd Weds)
Rotary Club of Buxton (2nd & 4th Weds)
Buxton Local History Society (3rd Weds) 📆 THURSDAYMatlock Railway Club (2nd & 4th Thu, late Aug–Apr) 📆 FRIDAYCoffee Morning (1st Fri)
Buxton & District U3A Coffee & Chat (2nd Fri)
Matlock & District Rifle Club (Tue & Fri) 📆 SATURDAYFriends of New Mills Station (3rd Sat) 📆 SUNDAYBuxton Rambling Club (Sun)
Green Drinks (17th of the month) 🎭 SPOTLIGHT: Two Left HandsCommunity organisation organising Buxton Carnival’s animated puppet and samba band. 🌿 Buxton Field ClubTalks (Oct–Mar)
📌 Please check individual club Facebook pages or websites for any cancellations, venue changes, or special event updates. |
Peak Power Gym in Whaley Bridge is celebrating its 10th anniversary this week, marking a decade of strength, fitness, and community.
To celebrate, the gym held an open workout, free day passes, and a social event on February 14th, 2026, thanking members for their support over the last 10 years.
Key 10th Anniversary Details:
Peak Power Gym Strength & Fitness is an independent, "old school" gym located in Whaley Bridge, High Peak. Born from a dream and built with a passion for training, this facility was transformed from an old wagon garage into a community fitness hub by a team with over 20 years of collective training experience.
The moment you step inside, you'll notice the atmosphere. The gym prioritises good music and positive vibes to create an environment where members feel encouraged and motivated.
The space is equipped with a wide range of resistance machines, free weights, and cardio equipment. For those who love Olympic lifting, there's a dedicated area with bumper plates.
Peak Power Gym is more than just a place to lift weights. They foster a community that supports everyone, from beginners taking their first steps into fitness to advanced athletes looking to push their limits.
Their services go beyond gym access, offering:
A variety of fitness classes for all levels, including high-energy sessions, kettlebell workouts, and military-style circuits.
Personal Training with a team of experienced coaches who specialise in areas like muscle building, fat loss, and building confidence in the gym.
A Sports Therapy Clinic offering sports massage treatments onsite for recovery and rehabilitation.
With convenient opening hours from 5 am to 9 pm every day and a no-contract membership model, it's easier than ever to prioritise your fitness journey. |
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From history and wildlife to photography, rambling, and coffee mornings, there’s a vibrant social scene right on your doorstep across Buxton, Bakewell, Matlock, and the High Peak.
Whether you’re new to the area or looking for a new hobby, here is your at-a-glance guide to regular meetings and groups.
📆 MONDAYBurbage Church Bell Ringers
Bakewell Photo Club (Fortnightly)
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – Wye & Upper Derwent Group (3rd Mon, Sep–Apr) 📆 TUESDAYMatlock & District Rifle Club (Tue & Fri)
Furness Vale History Society (1st Tue)
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – High Peak Group (2nd Tue, Oct–Apr)
Fairfield WI (4th Tue)
Language Circles at the Cheshire Cheese, Buxton 📆 WEDNESDAYChapel-en-le-Frith Rambling Club (Weds)
High Peak Photography Club (Weds, Sept–Apr)
Rotary Club of Bakewell (1st & 3rd Weds)
Buxton & District Ladies’ Probus Club (2nd Weds)
Rotary Club of Buxton (2nd & 4th Weds)
Buxton Local History Society (3rd Weds) 📆 THURSDAYMatlock Railway Club (2nd & 4th Thu, late Aug–Apr) 📆 FRIDAYCoffee Morning (1st Fri)
Buxton & District U3A Coffee & Chat (2nd Fri)
Matlock & District Rifle Club (Tue & Fri) 📆 SATURDAYFriends of New Mills Station (3rd Sat) 📆 SUNDAYBuxton Rambling Club (Sun)
Green Drinks (17th of the month) 🎭 SPOTLIGHT: Two Left HandsCommunity organisation organising Buxton Carnival’s animated puppet and samba band. 🌿 Buxton Field ClubTalks (Oct–Mar)
📌 Please check individual club Facebook pages or websites for any cancellations, venue changes, or special event updates. |
From creative workshops and live music to outdoor sports and wellbeing groups, there’s something for everyone across Buxton, the High Peak, and beyond.
Here’s your at-a-glance guide to regular arts, dance, drama, fairs, health, music, and sports events.
📆 Monday
📍 Uniting Church, 35a Buxton Road, 1:20–3:30 pm
📆 Monday
📍 The Playhouse, Chapel, 7:30 pm
📆 3rd Saturday
High Peak Country Dance Club – New members welcome.
📆 Saturday (mornings)
📆 Monday (evenings)
📆 Thursday (evenings)
📆 Mondays
📆 Tuesdays & Saturdays
📆 1st Saturday of the month
📆 Last Saturday
Various
Various
📆 Monday (term time)
📆 Tuesday
📆 1st Tuesday
📆 3rd Tuesday
📆 Wednesday (term time)
📆 1st Wednesday
📆 1st Thursday
📆 Thursday
📆 Thursday
📆 Thursday
📆 1st Friday
📆 Tuesday
📆 4th Thursday
📆 Friday & Saturday
📆 Sunday
📆 Monday (term time)
📆 Monday & Wednesday
📆 Wednesday (term time)
📆 Wednesday
📆 Friday
📆 Saturday
📌 Please check individual club Facebook pages, websites, or contact details for venue changes, cancellations, or updates. |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Kinder Scout is 636 metres tall. |