Celebrating 50 years of South Derbyshire District Council

South Derbyshire District Council joins many other councils across the country in turning fifty and is asking for residents and businesses to get involved to help celebrate this significant milestone.

All communities are invited to input ideas as plans take shape to throw celebratory events and activities throughout the year to commemorate the Council’s 50th anniversary.

South Derbyshire District Council was officially formed on 1 April 1974, as a result of the Local Government Act 1972. This significant moment marked the amalgamation of two former districts and a portion of a third: Repton Rural District, South East Derbyshire Rural District, and Swadlincote Urban District.

The newly established district was aptly named South Derbyshire, a reflection of its strategic position within the broader county. This merger brought together diverse communities, each contributing to the unique fabric of our District.

To commemorate this union the Council is organizing a year-long programme of celebratory events. These events will showcase the rich heritage and vibrancy of our District, inviting residents and visitors to come together and celebrate this significant achievement.

Dr Justin Ives, South Derbyshire District Council's Chief Executive said: “We are excited to mark the District’s remarkable 50-year journey and we are inviting everyone to join us in celebrating our vibrant community's past, present, and future.

“As we spend time during this anniversary year reflecting on the past – it is also time to look forward together, to ensure that our District, residents and the Council are thriving for the next 50 years and beyond.”

Some of the planned celebrations include a spectacular Proms in the Park 50th anniversary event in the summer, the return of Beat the Street with a special District-wide edition, the creation of 50 community woodlands, dedicated Heritage Days, and special activities for Rosliston and the National Forest as the forestry centre also marks its 30th anniversary this year.

It's not too late to get involved! If you have any ideas or old photographs of the District through the decades, please contact the Council who are putting out a call to residents who wish to contribute to shaping the birthday celebrations.

To contact the Council and help mark five decades of community growth and shared achievements, please email communications@southderbyshire.gov.uk.

A dedicated online page has been created to list all the anniversary activities: 50th Anniversary | South Derbyshire District Council. Please watch this space for upcoming updates.

3 April 2024