Glossop Chronicle

15/01/2026

TRADEBOOSTER 🛠

Looking for that trusted trader to kick start the year and
get those long awaited jobs sorted?

Check out our list of Tradespeople - swipe through and
find your solution 👉🏻👉🏻👉🏻

15/01/2026

15/01/2026

Your Glossop Chronicle is out today, with a round-up of community events, photos, sport, news and more!

Grab a copy or view online!

www.glossopchronicle.com

14/01/2026

On Tuesday 13 January, pupils and staff at Gamesley Primary School welcomed representatives from Howmet Aerospace to celebrate the presentation of a generous grant that will transform the school’s outdoor learning environment.

The funding, a substantial £20,000, will support the development of a safe, enclosed space on the school field, designed for all children to use. The project will incorporate the existing forest school site and expand it into a vibrant hub for STEM learning. Plans include mini engineering projects, hands-on opportunities to explore scientific and mathematical concepts, and the creation of a haven for local wildlife.

Pupils at the school say the new outdoor STEM area will make a real difference to their day-to-day learning. One group of pupils said learning outside “will make school even more exciting” and described outdoor lessons as “an adventure”, adding that it will help more children feel happy to come to school each day, ready to learn.

They also believe the space will enrich the curriculum by allowing them to take their practical learning further. Pupils said they are looking forward to testing ideas, building projects, and discovering new things in nature, explaining that having more opportunities to explore outside will make lessons “richer and even more fun”.

Head of School Caroline Sutherland said the project represents a major step forward for the school. “This is a significant step forward for our school. This development will give our children the chance to bring their learning to life. We believe it will improve attendance, enrich the curriculum, and support the well-being of our pupils by making learning more engaging, practical, and enjoyable.”

Children also highlighted the positive impact the new space will have on their wellbeing, saying being outdoors helps them feel happy, healthy, and calm. They said learning in fresh air, surrounded by nature, will help them feel more confident and ready to do their best.

The initiative is expected to benefit every child at the school, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in the great outdoors. With the support of Howmet Aerospace, pupils said they feel excited about growing into “the scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers of the future,” while enjoying school even more.

14/01/2026

Glossop North End made it through to the semi-finals of the Derbyshire Senior Cup on Tuesday, claiming the local bragging rights in the process with a penalty shootout win over New Mills.

14/01/2026

"When Reform won last year’s County Council election, they were promising to reduce Council Tax by getting rid of waste. In practice they are raising Council Tax by the maximum amount permitted whilst threatening to get rid of an important element of waste disposal! After less than a year in office they have been exposed as being both dishonest and disreputable.

"The announcement that they are considering closing Glossop’s Recycling Centre has caused widespread concern and anger, with even the local Reform Councillor joining opposition to the idea.

"High Peak Green Party supports the petition launched by our local Labour MP demanding that ‘Glossop Tip’ remains open. However, the Green Party, in contrast to other parties, recognises that the growing problem of waste management is caused by the current economic model in the UK, where unrestricted ‘growth’ is promoted, regardless of the impact on the environment.

"We need a new model, with an emphasis on reducing resource use, maximising recycling and replacing harmful products (fossil fuels in particular) with sustainable alternatives. What is produced needs to be more equally distributed, with the aim of ensuring that everyone has ‘enough’ and reducing the overconsumption of those with too much.

"In the meantime, we campaign for local councils to be adequately funded. Their essential services should include effective waste management, with maximum possible recycling, and reclamation of items for local people to buy and re-use. Local recycling centres have an important role to play in the green transition that is so urgently needed.

"There is already a shop at the Bolsover waste recycling centre offering some items for a donation: https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/environment/rubbish-waste/recyling-centres/centre-locations/bolsover/bolsover-household-waste-recycling-centre.aspx

"We are sure that local residents would welcome the same opportunity here.

"Electrical items are not resold at the Bolsover site as they are not able to do the required PAT safety tests. But there are Renew Shops at three Greater Manchester recycling centres which are able to do offer electrical goods - see link below. So something to aim at!"

https://recycleforgreatermanchester.com/renew-shops/

HIGH PEAK GREEN PARTY

14/01/2026

Whitfield St James’ CE (VC) Nursery and Primary School is proud to announce that it has been officially accredited as a White Rose Maths Champion School, recognising the school’s outstanding commitment to high-quality mathematics teaching and learning.

White Rose Maths is one of the UK’s leading providers of the maths curriculum and resources, used in around 80% of UK schools. Its mastery-based approach supports pupils in developing deep, secure understanding of mathematical concepts.

Achieving Champion School status highlights Whitfield St James’ dedication to delivering exceptional maths education and ensuring that every pupil develops confidence, resilience, and a genuine love of learning in mathematics.

Executive Headteacher Craig Woodward expressed his delight at the recognition, stating:

“We are thrilled to receive this accreditation. Using the White Rose Maths approach has made a huge impact on the teaching and learning of maths from Nursery to Year 6. This achievement reflects staff’s hard work, passion, and belief that every child can excel in mathematics.”

As a White Rose Maths Champion School, Whitfield St James’ will continue to drive innovative teaching strategies that support learners of all abilities, ensuring all children are able to excel. Membership of the Champion School community also brings access to exclusive professional development, early access to new resources, and opportunities to share best practice with schools nationally and internationally.

Head of School Leo Ford states:

“The White Rose Maths programme has transformed the way our pupils think about maths. We now have confident, enthusiastic problem-solvers who enjoy exploring mathematical ideas. This recognition confirms that our approach is making a real difference.”

This accreditation marks an exciting new chapter for Whitfield St James’ CE (VC) Nursery and Primary School as it continues its journey toward excellence in mathematics education.

13/01/2026

Concerns have been raised over dangerous flooding caused by blocked road gullies in Glossop.

The issue was reported to Derbyshire County Council several times in early December by Conservative councillors Jean Wharmby and Adie Hopkinson, after water was seen building up at the top of Sheffield Road close to the entrance to Shirebrook Drive.

Residents have also raised concerns about the risk of ice forming on the road during cold spells, increasing the danger for drivers and pedestrians.

Derbyshire County Councillor for Glossop North, Jean Wharmby, said the situation posed a serious risk to road users and pedestrians, particularly during colder weather.

“I have reported the blocked gullies at the top of Sheffield Road and Hurst Lane in Glossop,” she said. “The build-up of water at the top entrance to Shirebrook Drive is extremely dangerous and is an accident waiting to happen, especially with freezing temperatures.

“I have contacted the emergency services and requested that the Highway Officer attends the site to assess the risk. I am aware that Cllr Hopkinson has also reported this issue, as have many local residents. This problem needs to be dealt with urgently before someone is injured.”

Nearly a month after the issue was reported a Derbyshire County Councillor Highways Inspector visited the site to assess the situation.

The Glossop Chronicle asked Derbyshire County Council for an update on the situation. On Monday 12 January their Cabinet Member for Potholes, Highways and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Hill, said:

“We’ve had many requests in to unblock drains over the past few weeks, and have put in place additional resource to unblock as many as we can as quickly as possible.

“We’ll be dealing with these ones reported in Glossop by the end of this week, at the latest.”

Councillor Hopkinson, who pursued his initial report even while on a family holiday, noted that one of the challenges appears to be the absence of a dedicated Highways Officer in the High Peak, with the nearest officer based a considerable distance away.

13/01/2026

Work at the £18 million Shire Hill Cube Homes housing development in Old Glossop has been halted, after unauthorised demolition of a historic building prompted enforcement action by High Peak Borough Council.

The issue centred on the partial demolition of the former workhouse on the site, which planning permission had required to be retained and converted.

Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places Housing Group, the parent company of Cube Homes, said:

“We acknowledge that more of the Administration Block was demolished than permitted and acted immediately when this came to light on 4 October 2025 by halting all work. Since then, we’ve worked hard to identify a potential solution, proposed a pragmatic approach to the Local Planning Authority, and sought direct engagement.

“Our plan is to rebuild the block using its original stone, which we’ve carefully catalogued and stored on site. The structure is currently exposed, so time is critical, but we’ve installed scaffolding and limited activity to essential safety measures. We’ve also carried out a full internal review to learn from this and understand how this has happened.

“Our commitment is clear: to restore this important heritage asset and deliver the wider benefits of the Shire Hill development responsibly for the local community. We will continue to work to actively engage with the Local Planning Authority to move forward as quickly as possible.”

12/01/2026

Labour Councillor for Tintwistle Rob Baker has been praised by residents for keeping the community informed as Tintwistle Bridge remains closed following emergency repairs to a gas leak.

The bridge has been closed to road traffic since Wednesday 7 January after engineers from Cadent were called to deal with a leaking gas pipe. Cllr Baker has provided regular updates to residents throughout the disruption, sharing information from Cadent and offering practical support to those affected.

Cadent has since confirmed that the leak has been repaired and that the damage was less severe than first thought, meaning the pipe did not need replacing. However, the repair requires time to fully set before the road surface can be reinstated. Cadent’s road repair team is expected to be on site from Monday 12 January to relay the tarmac, with the bridge expected to reopen by Wednesday at the latest.

Cllr Baker has also raised concerns with Cadent about the adequacy of road closure signage for drivers approaching the bridge from both directions, who may not realise it is closed until they reach it.

Despite the closure to vehicles, pedestrian access across the bridge remains open. Bus services are continuing, with the 237 service still running to Station Road in Hadfield. Cllr Baker has highlighted that residents can walk across the bridge to access the service.

In addition, Cllr Baker has offered personal support to residents struggling with shopping, collecting prescriptions or other essential journeys during the closure, encouraging people to contact him directly so he can help.

He also issued a firm warning to motorists attempting to move barriers or drive over the bridge while repairs are ongoing, saying:

“The bridge remains closed. I can't really believe I'm having to say this but don't move the barriers and attempt to drive over. There is a live gas main in that open hole which has only just been repaired and is still setting. If you drive over it you risk causing that pipe to leak again and putting us back to square one.

It’s frustrating but we are all in the same boat and need to be patient. Cadent have told me that the road repair team will be onsite as soon as they possibly can.

If you see drivers going over the bridge or moving the barriers please ring the police on 101.”

Photo credit: Cllr Rob Baker.

12/01/2026

Passengers have voiced anger and frustration after Northern suspended all train services to Glossop in what many have described as an ‘unnecessary over-reaction'.

All trains from Manchester to Glossop were cancelled from 4.33pm on Thursday 8 January, with services initially suspended for the whole of the following day. The decision was taken on Wednesday 7 January in anticipation of Storm Goretti, despite little or no snowfall materialising in the Glossop area.

With no significant snow falling locally, Northern restarted train services on Friday at around 12.30pm, leaving many passengers questioning why the entire line had been closed for so long in the first place.

Commuters say the cancellations forced rail passengers onto already congested roads, causing noticeably heavier traffic during Friday’s morning rush hour.

Social media was awash with criticism following the cancellations. One commenter described the decision as “a ridiculous over-reaction,” while another said, “It’s shocking they are allowed to make major decisions like this based on speculation.”

Residents raised serious concerns about accountability and long-term planning, questioning what resilience measures exist to prevent repeated disruption for the thousands who rely on the line every day.

The Glossop Chronicle contacted Northern to ask for an explanation. In a joint statement with Network Rail, a spokesperson said:

“The decision to suspend services is never taken lightly. With heavy snow forecast as part of Storm Goretti and an amber warning in place, we took the collective decision to close a number of lines as a precaution.

“We understand how frustrating it is when trains aren’t able to run due to bad weather. While the worst of the forecast weather did not fully materialise, decisions like this are based on the best information available at the time, based on the expert guidance from the Met Office and our operational teams.

“Getting the train service up and running after disruption is complex, but we quickly started to run services again where we could. We’d like to thank customers for their patience.”

Passengers, however, say the explanation does little to reassure those who depend on the line daily for work, education and essential travel. Many argue that precautionary suspensions should be a last resort and that running reduced or closely monitored services would have been a more proportionate response.

As services resume, calls are growing for clearer criteria around cancellations and greater transparency over how weather-related decisions are made, to ensure Glossop and surrounding communities are not left stranded again by forecasts that fail to materialise.