Derbyshire County Council has launched a series of public consultations to gather views on proposed changes to the way adult education is delivered across the county.
The consultations follow a decision by the Reform UK-led council to close several adult education centres over the summer as part of a review of the service. The authority said the closures were driven by “changing priorities of the funding bodies” that support community adult education.
The Department for Education has confirmed that most adult education funding has now been transferred to the East Midlands Mayoral Strategic Authority, prompting councils to reassess how services are provided.
The council said the in-person consultation meetings aim to help shape a service that is “fit for the future”, with events taking place throughout January. In recent years, the authority has moved away from traditional building-based services, introducing more flexible, home-based models and greater use of digital technology.
Learning centres affected by the closures include the Eco Centre in Wirksworth, and centres in Alfreton, Ashbourne, Matlock, Shirebrook, Long Eaton and The Toolbox in Glossop.
Consultation dates and times
Members of the public can attend consultation sessions at the following locations:
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Bolsover Adult Education Centre
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Monday: 21:30–00:30
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21 January: 12:30–15:30
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The Quad, Chesterfield
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Tuesday: 09:30–12:30
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20 January: 12:30–15:30
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Cotmanhay Adult Education Centre
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Wednesday: 21:30–00:30
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28 January: 12:30–15:30
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Glossop Adult Education Centre
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Tuesday: 12:30–15:30
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Wednesday: 21:30–00:30
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Fairfield Adult Education Centre, Buxton
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Thursday: 09:30–15:30
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Clay Cross Adult Education Centre
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Thursday: 09:30–15:30
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20 January: 12:30–15:30
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Swadlincote Adult Education Centre
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21 January: 12:30–15:30
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27 January: 21:30–00:30
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Councillor Simon Mabbott said it was vital to hear from as many residents as possible.
“It’s really important that we get a range of views to help us shape our services so they are fit for the future,” he said. “No decisions will be made about the future of these services until we have listened to people’s views and fully taken them into account.”
The council confirmed the consultation will remain open until midnight on 22 February, with residents also able to submit feedback online.
