More archaeological discoveries in Rykneld Square
Further archaeological discoveries have been made as part of the regeneration of Rykneld Square, offering a new window into Chesterfield’s past.
Work on the site was paused in July following the discovery of skeletal remains, so that archaeologists from the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) could carry out full excavations. Archaeological investigation is required as part of the planning process when burials are uncovered unexpectedly during construction.
During the first phase of work, ULAS uncovered walls and other significant finds that need careful investigation. As a result, the archaeological phase is taking longer than expected. Therefore, the completion of regeneration work in Rykneld Square will be delayed.
It is anticipated that archaeologists will be on site until at least December 2025. Full regeneration work will resume in 2026. A temporary surface will be placed on the site to allow the Remembrance Day parade to go ahead and support Christmas events planned around the church.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:
“We’re excited to uncover more of our town’s history, and it’s important we follow the correct process to investigate this discovery.
The archaeologists are doing difficult work, and I’d ask that everyone gives them space to work without disruption. More details about the finds made will be shared. Ensuring they are properly recorded at Chesterfield Museum.”
John Thomas, deputy director of ULAS, said:
“We are really pleased to be helping Chesterfield Borough Council with this excavation, which is uncovering important fragments of the town’s rich heritage. We’re also very excited to be working so close to such an iconic landmark as the Crooked Spire. So far, we have found stone walls from buildings close to the church dating back to at least the 17th century, as well as part of the former churchyard that was replanned in the 1950s. Work is still in the early stages, but ULAS will be presenting on the excavations at Derbyshire Archaeology Day in Chesterfield this January.”
The planned works in Rykneld Square aim to create a more welcoming public space. Visitors can enjoy views of the Crooked Spire.
These include brand new:
• Paving and surfaces to give the area a more modern feel
• Seating for visitors to use
• Planting helping enhance biodiversity
• A bin store to improve tidiness
• Upgraded pavement alongside the top of the square to create a level surface
• New bollards and a crossing point to make the area safer for pedestrians
The works form part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s “Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield” project, which aims to regenerate and enhance key public spaces across the town centre.
To find out more about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments
