Monthly update from Council Leader James Dawson

Erewash Borough Council's leader James Dawson provides a summary of September’s upcoming activities and key activities and decisions from the council leadership over the past month.

Councillor Dawson highlighted August’s activities, "There was the car show on the Marketplace that was organised by Erewash Partnership. We've had the Community Arts Festival as well; they did a murder mystery in the town hall one night and then also a history tour of the town hall, which if you've never done that or know anything about the history of Ilkeston town hall is quite interesting. Finished off with the Glow Festival."

There were slight changes in this year’s Glow festival, "All the food stalls and things didn't have to be in Pimlico Car Park, they could be on the marketplace, everybody had said that makes it feel better, but also it's a lot easier for people to go and get food and things while enjoying the music and not having to leave to come back in" Mr Dawson explained. 

Also, the council provides several grants to help the community through funding its activities and events, "If you've got a community initiative, especially if you want to encourage volunteers, things like that grant funding can be used" said Mr Dawson. 

The council achieved an important step as it is classed as a debt free authority. 

“You haven't been out to get a loan to cover any of your capital costs and anything like that. So I think it's safe to say there's been some tough decisions that have been taken in order to keep the council debt free like that, but it has enabled us to not put any more strain on the finances and actually we're now in that position where we can actually put money back into things where you're not then paying interest off on a loan,” said the Council Leader.

Also, Councillor Dawson reflected how this step is important, "I think there are only about 30 authorities across the country that are classed as debt free."

Earlier this month, locals were invited to take part in the council’s consultation regarding Ilkeston’s Wash Meadows Play park, known locally as 'Johnny’s Park', ahead of refurbishment funding of £160k from the UK shared prosperity fund. 

As the consultation results are not yet announced, once the designs are confirmed, the construction company will begin working, "I think the good thing about this is obviously not just replacing the play equipment, but it is actually accessible for all people as well, so those with disabilities will be able to play on it,” Mr Dawson highlighted the advantages of the new designs. 

For more updates, Erewash Borough council launched their online newsletter as you can sign up through the website and all the news will be sent to your inbox. 

Listen Again

Upgraded play park for Ilkeston and authority's finances are in good health - Councillor James Dawson 

In his regular monthly slot, Councillor James Dawson spoke to Paul Stacey about Erewash Borough Council being named as a local authority without debt, and highlighted an upgrade to a children's play area in Ilkeston. Broadcast on Erewash Sound Breakfast Show, Monday 1st September 2025.