Dear Members,
As we approach the time of year when the Chairman’s report is submitted for our annual newsletter, I have found myself reflecting on the past eight years and the journey I have had with the Derby Civic Society.
When I took on the position of Chairman in 2018, I joined a committee made up of people with a wide range of professional expertise, including historians, academics, engineers, chartered surveyors and legal representatives. Over the years, members of the Society have also joined me around the committee table, bringing their own knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for Derby.
My eight years as Chairman have given me immense pleasure in raising the profile of what the Civic Society stands for and bringing greater awareness to the citizens of Derby through the local press, media, radio and our many events and activities.
There have been many highlights during my time as Chairman. One of the most memorable was having the opportunity to present the Paul Cummings Poppy Wreath at Derby Cathedral to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, alongside Pauline Latham, the former Mid Derbyshire MP, and being part of the steering committee for those commemorations.
I have also been proud to represent Derby Civic Society through Civic Voice conference in the East Midlands, promoting our work, our Civic Society Awards, our blue plaque scheme and the many city-wide campaigns we have undertaken. We have challenged authorities when Derby’s architectural heritage has been under threat. Some of those campaigns have been successful and, unfortunately, some have not, but we have never given up the fight.
It has been a great pleasure to work with organisations, businesses, architects and construction companies across Derby to highlight the importance of protecting the historic fabric, communities and heritage of our city. I have particularly enjoyed being involved with major developments and projects, including the former Debenhams site, Derby Royal Infirmary and Pepperpot Towers, and working with organisations to establish lasting legacies through blue plaques and heritage recognition.
One of the most significant achievements was the successful campaign to have 27 Queen Street listed as a building of international importance following a 20-year campaign by the Civic Society. Working collectively with many different organisations and individuals, we achieved what at times seemed unexpected. It means that future generations will be able to appreciate, admire and discover the historical importance of this remarkable building.
The mission of the Civic Society is never finished. It will always grow, expand and develop, and I know that the Society has the heart, pride, passion and determination to continue the achievements made during my term of office and keep our important legacy moving forward.
A Changing Society
Like all societies and communities, we have witnessed significant change, turmoil and historical moments.
The Covid-19 pandemic brought an unprecedented period for everyone. It stopped us from meeting socially, attending our Tuesday evening meetings and listening to speakers together over a glass of wine. We had to adapt quickly and move to online meetings, which was a new experience for many of us. But we came through it together.
Sadly, we have also had to say our deepest condolences to close friends and colleagues who have been an important part of the Civic Society. In particular, David Ling, who served the Society with great dedication, friendship and commitment, will always be remembered.
Events and Activities
During my time as Chairman, I also took on responsibility for the activities programme. I have enjoyed bringing a wide range of cultural, heritage and architectural talks to the Civic Society and, importantly, bringing back our annual trips.
The annual trips have now become a very popular part of the Society's programme, with members asking where we are going next. It has been wonderful to bring together members, people from other societies, groups and communities across Derby and give everyone the opportunity to enjoy a day somewhere they may never otherwise have visited.
The friendships and connections made through these trips have been one of the great achievements of the Society.
We also recently attended the first Derby History Festival at Derby Market Hall, which provided an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of the Civic Society and explain more about what we do.
We were able to sell reference books, newsletters, historical walks and maps, and other publications from local authors and academics. I would like to thank everyone who supported us and encouraged the Society as we continue to look towards the future.
A Special Thank You
As I now prepare to step down as Chairman, I want to take this opportunity to thank every Committee member I have served with over the past eight years.
Every individual has played a significant role during my chairmanship. There have, of course, been ups and downs, but there has always been positivity, drive, passion and determination.
I would particularly like to thank:
Alan Grimadell, President of the Society, for introducing me to the Derby Civic Society all those years ago, trusting me as his Deputy and giving me the opportunity to take over as Chairman.
The late David Ling, for his guidance, advice and friendship when I was a young member of the Council. He gave me a chance and supported me through an extremely difficult period during Covid. He will never be forgotten.
Lawrence Chell, for his sheer determination and tremendous enthusiasm on Tuesday evenings, preparing the wine and nibbles and always being willing to help wherever needed.
Peter Steer, for his determination to restore balance and fairness when dealing with planning applications and developments across Derby. His experience and knowledge have been invaluable to the Society and may it continue.
Phil Lucas, our Treasurer, who continues to steer the Society towards financial stability and explore new opportunities for funding, membership and awareness, ensuring the Society remains strong for future generations.
Beth Rawson, who joined the Committee as a breath of fresh air and has given us a new, active and engaging website. Beth continues to highlight the importance of social media and provides tremendous support to the Committee. She never says no — when something needs to be done, she is always there to support it or offer to take it forward.
Max and Carol Craven, for their friendship and continued support. Max has continued to edit the newsletter and support the Society as Honorary Secretary, while Carol has brought innovation to our school education work and the David Ling Award, encouraging pupils to submit their ideas as part of our ABCD Awards.
Jason Toon, for his help and support, including his willingness to raise funds and make donations to the Society, support our events and talks, and share his fascinating military collection.
And finally, my Vice Chairman, Ian Goodwin, who I believe is well placed to take the Society forward as the next Chairman. Ian has represented the Civic Society on the Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee and has supported the Society on major developments and planning applications requiring careful scrutiny.
His experience as a chartered architect has been invaluable when discussing planning applications, development proposals and the future of our city.
Without these people, and many others who have supported the Society, I would not have been able to carry out my role as Chairman.
They have been my support, my guidance and my representatives when I have not been able to be there personally. They are the pillars of our mission to protect and preserve the historical identity of Derby and its historic buildings for future generations to appreciate.
Looking to the Future
As I hand over the Chairmanship, I wish my successor every success, honour and privilege in taking on the role.
I hope they will continue to lead and inspire the people of Derby, while working with the city's organisations, businesses and investors to ensure that the Civic Society continues to have a strong voice.
Our message remains clear: we want to see fairness, good design and conservation at the heart of Derby's future, while protecting the heritage that makes our city unique.
I know the Society will continue to move forward with the support of a strong team behind the new Chairman.
Although I am stepping down as Chairman, I am not stepping away from the Civic Society. I will remain an active Secretary and Committee member, and I will also continue to act as an ambassador for the Civic Society, promoting civic pride and raising awareness of the important work the Society does for Derby.
I will continue to champion Derby’s heritage, historic buildings, communities and future, and wherever possible encourage people to take pride in our city and understand the importance of protecting its unique identity for future generations.
I look forward to continuing to support the Society and seeing many of you at future events in the months and years ahead.
It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as your Chairman for the past eight years.
Thank you to every member who has supported me, challenged me, encouraged me and stood alongside me during my time as Chairman.
The work continues, and the legacy of the Civic Society continues with it.
With my very best wishes and sincere thanks,
Ashley Waterhouse
Former Chairman- Derby Civic Society
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