Author: Alex Baddley

Local community spreads festive spirit

From heartwarming carol singing to handmade Christmas hats, the people of Chesterfield have come together this festive season to support local charities and bring joy to the local community during a challenging time for many.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital was filled with festive spirit last month as children from St Peter and St Paul School delighted staff, patients, and visitors with a heartwarming carol performance in the hospital’s main entrance.

The joyful singing brought smiles to everyone and created a truly magical atmosphere, further enhanced by a thoughtful address from Reverend Martyn Jinks.

Generous donations were also made to Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity, reflecting the kindness and community spirit that make this time of year so special.

The Trust extended a heartfelt thank you to the pupils, Reverend Jinks, and everyone involved in making the hospital feel brighter this Christmas.

Christmas royal hospital choir (

Hats on Chesterfield Crooked Spire tree set to bring warmth to local charities

Dozens of green beanie hats topped with colourful bobbles hung proudly on a Christmas tree inside Chesterfield’s iconic Crooked Spire earlier this season, ready to be donated to charities and community groups across the town. The display was part of the Festival of Christmas Trees at the Parish Church of St Mary and All Saints, where more than 100 decorated trees from local organisations, businesses and community groups were showcased inside the church throughout November.

The hats had been handmade by members of the local community in response to a festive appeal from local firm Banner Jones. After the festival finished, every hat was passed on to local homeless charities, food banks, and community organisations to help keep vulnerable people warm over the winter months.

Lynne Pope, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones, said: “Community is at the heart of Banner Jones, and we are incredibly proud to see the tree now covered in so many cosy, handmade hats. Each one represents time, care and kindness from our community.

“The tree has already attracted attention from visitors to the church, with many stopping to admire the bright display and the simple but powerful message behind it – that small acts of kindness can make a real difference during the colder months.”

Banner jones xmas tree

 

Posted in Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Home

People of Chesterfield show support for Ashgate Hospice

The people of North Derbyshire have shown incredible generosity and support for Ashgate Hospice in recent months, coming together to raise vital funds and honour loved ones. Despite the hospice facing a significant funding shortfall, community events have highlighted the strength and compassion of the local area.

Annual Ball raises over £100,000

Ashgate Hospice’s annual black-tie Ball, held for the first time at the Best Western Plus Mosborough Hall Hotel in Sheffield on Friday 14 November 2025, raised £108,818 to support patients living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

The event welcomed 180 guests who enjoyed a four-course dinner and learned more about the hospice’s impact in the region. Guests also took part in a lively auction, with items including a signed Jude Bellingham shirt from the Euro 2024 final, a tour of the Silverstone Aramco Formula One building, and a luxury stay at Swinney Wood Log Cabins in Belper.

Anna Jinks, partnerships development officer, said:

“This is without doubt one of the most challenging periods in Ashgate Hospice’s history, and that makes the generosity shown at the Annual Ball even more humbling.

To see so many people come together, give so generously and help raise such an incredible amount means so much for the hospice and everyone who relies on our services.

The funds raised will make a real, tangible difference to patients and the people important to them when they need us most, and we cannot thank our supporters enough for standing with us at such a critical time.”

Light up a Life brings community together in remembrance

Just weeks later, on Sunday 7 December 2025, hundreds of people took part in Ashgate Hospice’s annual Light up a Life event, sponsored by Harold Lilleker & Sons Ltd, raising more than £55,000. Around 500 supporters walked the 1.6-mile lantern-lit procession through Old Brampton, while another 150 attended the remembrance ceremony in the hospice gardens.

Jack Wood, Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“We want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for Light up a Life this year. After what has been a challenging period for our hospice, seeing so many people stand side by side in remembrance meant more than we can say.

“For many, this time of year can be incredibly hard. Coming together in this way – to pause, to remember and to honour someone important – is a powerful reminder of the strength within our community.”

The evening featured music from Sheffield’s Cancer Choir, vocalist Alex Eastwood, and thoughtful readings, led by Ashgate’s Spiritual Care Practitioner, Tim Wheeler.

Even after the event, supporters can still dedicate a star in Ashgate’s virtual night sky in memory of someone special, with all donations helping to fund the hospice’s specialist end-of-life and palliative care services. With NHS funding covering only half of the care costs, community support remains essential to ensure Ashgate can continue to provide its vital services.

Ashgate Hospice community

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home

New era announced for Penny Engineering

Penny Engineering is marking a major milestone by transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This change secures the company’s long-term independence and preserves the values that have guided its success for generations.

The decision reflects the Penny family’s long-standing belief that the business should benefit its employees rather than external shareholders.

Managing Director Tim Penny highlighted the motivation behind the shift, stating:
“Our commitment has always been to the long-term stability of this business and the people who work within it. By transitioning to employee ownership, we are decisively guaranteeing that Penny Engineering’s success, survival and future for the next 100 years will be determined by our team, free from the volatility of external shareholder demands.”

Chairman Robin Penny emphasised the family’s custodianship ethos, adding:
“We were brought up by our dad to believe that we were custodians of the business, not owners. He believed that only people working in the business should benefit from it. This transition brings that principle to life, ensuring that the team who work within Penny, the ones who drive our success, are the ultimate beneficiaries.”

The company has long maintained strong staff retention, with many senior leaders developing their careers within the organisation. Employee ownership builds on this foundation by reinforcing job security and strengthening employee influence across all levels of the business.

The newly established Trustee Board will lead the EOT. Chaired by Robin Penny, it includes employee representatives Jocelyn Cole (General Manager, Goods Lifts) and Sam Dobson (General Manager, Sidetracker), independent trustee David Ball and Finance Director Ashley Holmes. The Board will also form an employee council, giving staff a direct voice on welfare and community matters.

The company completed the transition at a substantial discount to market value, an intentional decision to ensure the business does not face financial strain.

The directors also extended their thanks to professional advisers Shorts Chartered Accountants and Knights Plc for their support throughout the process.

David Robinson, Tax Partner at Shorts, commented: “ Throughout the past 20 years or so that Shorts has been a trusted adviser to Penny Engineering and its stakeholders, it has been clear that employees are at the heart of the business. We look forward to working with the Directors and Trustees in this exciting new chapter.”

This transition marks a significant step forward for one of our town’s longstanding industrial innovators. Penny Engineering will continue to strengthen the region’s engineering sector for decades to come.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing

Over £500,000 funding awarded to local community groups

Over £500,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to local community groups and voluntary organisations across Chesterfield, helping local projects make a real difference in the borough.

As part of the Community Grants Fund, launched by Chesterfield Borough Council in 2023, the latest round of funding has seen £75,282 shared between 19 local groups. Since the scheme began, a total of £527,911 has been awarded through 103 successful applications, supporting projects that strengthen neighbourhoods, promote wellbeing, and bring people together.

Already, the grants are helping to deliver projects across the borough, from funding foodbanks and community hubs, to supporting local events and helping people back into work. They are also enabling initiatives that encourage greener, more sustainable choices and reduce the borough’s environmental impact.

The latest organisations to receive funding include:

  • Barrow Hill Community Trust

  • Transition Chesterfield

  • Don Catchment Rivers Trust

  • St John Ambulance

  • Friends of Eastwood Park

  • African Caribbean Community Association

  • Duckmanton Miners Welfare Centre

  • Mastin Moor Miners Welfare

  • Ozbox

  • b:friend

  • The Friends of Pearson Park

  • Chesterfield Foodbank

  • Parish Centre Stonegravels

  • Poolsbrook Club Community Committee

  • Friends of Thistle Park, Brimington

  • Kakou CIC

  • Friends of Stand Road Park

  • Pain Inspired

  • Community Development Chesterfield

Ann Fomukong-Boden,

Kakou CIC, one of our Chesterfield Champions, will use the funding to create a kitchen garden for The Rectory Community Pub, helping to bring the community together.

Kakou’s Ann Fomukong-Boden and Destination Chesterfield Board member said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this funding for The Rectory Kitchen Garden Project. This funding means we can turn our pub’s beer garden into something much more,  a thriving kitchen garden that not only supports our pub kitchen but also brings the community together.

“Fresh produce grown here will go straight into our meals, while our gardening club will help people connect, learn, and support their wellbeing. It’s a chance to grow food, friendships, and a stronger, more sustainable future for The Rectory and our community.”

Elsewhere, Friends of Thistle Park will be using the grant funding to replace surfacing in the play area that has become worn over time, ensuring that local families can continue to enjoy the much-loved park in Brimington.

The chair of Friends of Thistle Park said:

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, which will make a real difference to the community. The resurfacing will enhance the play area into a space that children can enjoy all year round, and we are grateful to Chesterfield Borough Council for their support.

“We will continue to work towards transforming the park for the benefit of local residents and visitors, and this project marks an important step in their ongoing commitment to improving community facilities.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chestrfield, said:

“We really are lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that can have a huge impact on our local communities – and we’re really proud that we’re able to support them through this funding.

“It has allowed us to support so many groups and organisations that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives and make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“It has been great to hear from the groups about how the funding is being used so far and the impact that it is having on local residents, and I am looking forward to hearing more about how the latest groups and organisations are using the grants to make a difference in our community.”

Funding for the grants scheme was successfully secured from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

The Community Grants Fund has received £120,500 from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Posted in Development, Home, Leisure, Stay

New mural unveiled in town centre

World-renowned street artist has unveiled a vibrant new mural in the heart of our town centre.

Peachzz drew inspiration from our Chesterfield Market and our borough’s heritage to create the breathtaking artwork, called Local, which covers the entire side of the Pavements Shopping Centre and welcomes visitors as they enter the marketplace.

Local depicts a selection of objects that reflect what can be found on Chesterfield Market, while also referencing local history. Features include a shire horse, which was once used to collect rubbish from the market, a cattle brass referencing the historic cattle market site, and a pomegranate, which features in the Borough crest. The use of hands aims to evoke the idea of trade.

Peachzz said:

“My concept was to have all these ideas and stories that I’ve heard shown through items that I’d bought from the market, so there are loads of these little stories within it, but overall, it aims to support all these small businesses and traders that make up this town.

“The reception has been amazing. We’ve had no end of people coming and stopping us to say hello and telling us how much they like it. It’s been really heartwarming and encouraging when painting in the rain, but also shows the impact that art pieces have on public spaces.”

Peachzz worked with our local community to develop the concept for the mural, hosting a drop-in session on the Market for members of the public to share their ideas and stories, visiting a local school to hear pupils’ ideas, and speaking to market traders about what they felt the mural should include.

The mural was created using masonry paint to establish the market stall background, followed by layers of spray paint to build up the detailed design. Peachzz employed a “doodle grid” technique – a mapping system that allows designs to be accurately scaled onto large walls. The grid acts as a guide for placing each element and colour, ensuring the finished artwork retains its precision and vibrancy at scale.

The new mural is funded through Chesterfield Borough Council’s Animate Chesterfield programme, which will create new artworks and activities throughout the regeneration projects happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“This is an exceptional piece of artwork which reflects our town’s history but also helps create a new, vibrant welcome for visitors. The mural is already getting a positive reception, with lots of people visiting the town centre to watch its creation. I know it will be a source of inspiration for many of our residents, and they will enjoy seeing this sight for many years to come.”

mural unveiled in Chesterfield

@steelcitydronepilot

Peachzz is a contemporary street artist from Sheffield. She discovered spray painting in the forgotten industrial sites of the UK and Europe, channelling her creativity into breathing life into walls.

Her work often explores and celebrates themes of nature, life and community, set against the stark concrete of urban spaces. With each mural, she aims to evoke an emotional response and ensure her work feels rooted in its surroundings.

With a storytelling approach, she creates art that resonates with both local communities and visitors. She is an extremely confident painter of large-scale projects. Her style is expressive, with hints of realism, while experimenting with positive themes and a bold colour palette.

Peachzz has travelled with her work all over Europe and has painted as far away as the USA, Colombia, Mexico and the Middle East.

Her mural Reverie in Sheffield was named the second Best Mural in the World 2024 by Street Art Cities.

Animate Chesterfield is being delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation, in collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council. The programme has included the appointment of an artist in residence to engage residents and visitors with Chesterfield town centre, a Christmas window trail, and further projects are planned, including the creation of a Heritage Arts Trail, a town centre projection mapping project, and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.

Communities are at the heart of the programme and will shape, influence and participate throughout, ensuring that it is an authentic celebration of the place.

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s per cent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues voluntarily). The funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

To find out more about the Animate programme, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Images by @steelcitydronepilot

 

Posted in Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

HBD sells Markham Vale site to Litton Properties

HBD, part of Henry Boot, has sold a 2-acre trade park site at Markham Vale to Litton Properties.

Markham Vale is one of HBD’s most successful industrial and logistics schemes. The M1-linked development is a joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. The development has created more than 2,600 jobs and is home to occupiers including Smurfit Kappa and Bilstein.

Litton Property Group will start construction in the first half of 2026. The scheme will deliver over 30,000 sq ft of trade counter and other commercial space. Flexible units from 3,817 sq ft will be available. The site sits opposite the M1 service area.

Based in Bakewell, Litton Property Group specialises in retail, leisure, regeneration and business uses. Its portfolio includes retained developments and strategically acquired sites. The business manages these assets for long-term redevelopment or asset management.

Hamer Boot, Executive Director at HBD, said: “As a well-established I&L scheme and with direct access to the M1, Markham Vale presents an ideal trade park location. This trade counter site is a good fit for Litton Property Group, who will now bring the development forward in 2026.”

Mark Twelves, Managing Director of Litton Property Group, said: “Markham Vale Trade Park will deliver a new benchmark for trade counter, warehouse and light industrial accommodation in Derbyshire. Our purchase and the development of the site sends out a strong signal that Derbyshire is a place that helps business to establish, grow and thrive. With a growing workforce, new housing nearby, and strong regional links, it is perfectly positioned for ambitious businesses.”

HBD is progressing several new developments at Markham Vale. These include Nova, a 732,000 sq ft industrial and logistics scheme. The project is a joint venture with Devonshire Property Group. The BREEAM Excellent development includes two units and could create up to 800 jobs.

Origin, a joint venture between HBD and Feldberg Capital, has completed phase one of the ARK scheme. Capital Angling now occupies the first of four units. The team has submitted a planning application for phase two. This will deliver a further 53,000 sq ft ESG-compliant unit.

HBD is one of the UK’s most established property developers. It has a strong track record, solid financial backing and a reputation for delivery. As a result, This has made it a partner of choice for local authorities, investors and developers.

Additionally, with a £1.3 billion development pipeline, HBD operates from six UK offices. It focuses on industrial and logistics, urban development and residential projects.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

New bar brings local beer to Chatsworth Road

Located on the popular Chatsworth Road, The Outbreak has opened its doors, adding to the area’s growing reputation as a vibrant destination for food, drink and socialising close to our town centre.

The new independent bar, which has been open for five weeks, is owned by the former proprietor of the Real Ale Corner micropub, also located on Chatsworth Road. The bar draws inspiration from Derbyshire’s brewing heritage and a close working relationship with Eyam Brewery.

“I used to own the Real Ale Corner micropub down the other end of Chatsworth Road, and got to know Gervaise at Eyam Brewery through that,” the owner said. “The brewery taps into the plague history of Eyam, with a lot of the beers having plague-themed names. That’s where the name of the bar comes from – The Outbreak tying into the plague theme.”

With a wide selection of both cask and keg options, alongside rotating guest beers and a permanent line of Kasteel Belgian beers. The bar also offers a comprehensive wine list and a selection of spirits.

“There’s also a fantastic wine list and spirits, so something for everyone!” the owner added.

The Outbreak bar

Food plays a key role at The Outbreak, with the kitchen serving freshly made tacos and sides, making it the only venue in Chesterfield specialising in flavourful tacos. This weekend, the bar is also launching a new eating challenge.

“We’re launching an eating challenge this coming weekend – 20 minutes to complete a tray of 12 tacos and a portion of nachos,” the owner said. “Complete it within the time and it’s free, otherwise you pay for it.”

In the run-up to Christmas, The Outbreak plans to open extended hours from Friday 19th to Wednesday 24th, providing an additional option for festive food and drinks in the town.

The venue also features an upstairs space with seating for more than 35 people, which the team hopes will be used by local groups and organisations.

“Our bar has a fantastic upstairs space with seating for 35+,” the owner explained. “It’s a great place to sit and relax, but we also want to make it available to the community for local groups to use. We’re hosting the next local CAMRA meeting on the 8th Jan, for example.”

Looking ahead, The Outbreak is developing a programme of events for 2025, including Meet the Brewer evenings, tasting sessions and a monthly pub quiz.

“Overall, The Outbreak is a great informal space to come for food, local drinks and to socialise!”
For more local independent food and drink venues: www.chesterfield.co.uk/food-and-drink-businesses
Posted in Business, Christmas, Development, Home, Leisure

New energy-efficient homes for local families

More local families are set to move into brand-new, affordable, and energy-efficient homes in Middlecroft and Staveley, as Chesterfield Borough Council continues to expand its housing supply across the borough, building on Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey, which named Chesterfield one of the happiest places to live in the East Midlands for the third year in a row.

Earlier this year, the council handed over the keys to four bungalows on Ringwood Avenue and Court Place, and now even more local families will benefit from the completion of a further nine new homes in the area.

The final phase of the project includes four two-bed bungalows on Wensley Way, two two-bedroom houses on Paisley Close, and three two-bedroom houses at Aston Court, all of which will be let to residents on the council’s housing register.

All homes are designed to achieve an A-rated EPC and are equipped with air-source heat pumps to provide hot water and underfloor heating, eliminating the need for gas boilers.

Solar panels have also been installed, designed to generate more energy than the homes are expected to use.

Each property features open-plan kitchens and dining areas, generous storage, and well-proportioned bedrooms. Large windows maximise natural light, while high-quality insulation and energy-efficient installations help create a warm, comfortable, and cost-effective living environment.

Outside, each home has a private garden for children to play and families to enjoy, along with dedicated parking. The bungalows have level access and are designed so lifts or ceiling hoists can be added in the future, allowing tenants to live independently for longer.

Fortem Solutions Ltd has delivered the project.

New build homes in Middle croft and stavely

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re really pleased that this project is now completed and are ready to hand over the keys so that even more local families can enjoy their new homes.

When planning for these new build homes, we wanted to ensure that we can provide homes that meet the needs of our tenants both now and in the future – providing homes for life. That’s why we’ve designed these bungalows in a way that adaptations, such as installing lifts and hoists, can be installed easily should they be needed in the future which ensures people can live independently in their homes for longer.

All of the homes also have A-rated energy efficiency, meaning that they can keep their homes warm throughout the year, whilst keeping energy bills down.”

Russ Gale – Senior Project Manager at Fortem Solutions Ltd, said:

“Our team has delivered eight adapted bungalows and five houses that are thoughtfully designed to support modern living and future needs. Not only do they look great, but they also provide long-term comfort, accessibility and help to reduce fuel poverty.

To support Chesterfield Borough Council’s net zero targets, we have introduced air source heat pumps, solar panels and underfloor heating. Now all homes have A-rated EPC’s, demonstrating their efficient energy performance.

It has been a privilege to play our part in supporting Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver new homes to residents and, we wish every family many happy years there.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/living

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Stay

St Mary’s RC High School crowned East Midlands’ top comprehensive

St Mary’s RC High School, based in Newbold, has been named Comprehensive School of the Year in the East Midlands 2026 by The Sunday Times Parent Power school guide.

This award highlights the school’s outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements, as well as its commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students.

The accolade follows an excellent year in 2025. At Key Stage 4, 73.3% of St Mary’s pupils achieved grade 5 or above in both English and Maths GCSEs, the highest figure in Derbyshire. The school also posted an Attainment 8 score of 59.6, again topping local league tables.

Success continues at A level, with the school’s 2025 results placing it in the top 10% of schools nationally.

Adding to its credentials, St Mary’s retains ‘Outstanding’ ratings from both Ofsted and the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI), underscoring excellence in teaching, pastoral care, and leadership.

Maria Dengate, Headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic High School, said: “This is an extraordinary achievement for our school, the East Midlands encompasses Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.  To be recognised for our success, across such a large area, is testament to our wonderful pupils and truly outstanding staff, who work tirelessly to educate and support our young people.”

Chesterfield is a great place to bring up a family, it offers many schools that Ofsted rated as outstanding and good. Friendly schools will support your child to make memories and friends for life.  The town is also ranked as the second best place in the UK to raise a family and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands.

Discover more about living in Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Skills

Christine Durrant to become Council’s next Chief Executive

Chesterfield Borough Council is set to welcome Christine Durrant as its new Chief Executive when current chief, Huw Bowen, retires next May. The appointment is due to be confirmed at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday 17 December.

Christine currently serves as the council’s Deputy Chief Executive, having been a key member of the senior leadership team since 2019. She brings more than 30 years of local government experience, including 19 years in senior leadership roles, and previously worked at Derby City Council, finishing as Strategic Director for Communities and Place as well as, Deputy Chief Executive.

Her appointment follows a thorough assessment process, including a skills evaluation and a final interview, after which the council’s Member Appointments Panel recommended her for the top role.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, said: “I’m delighted that Christine has been recommended for appointment as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive.

“Christine has already served the council with distinction for the past six years. During this time, she has built an excellent reputation as a leader and manager, for delivering strong public services and for forging effective relationships with the council’s many partners.

“With local government reorganisation just over two years away, Christine is also well placed to lead the council at a time of significant change – carrying forward the respected legacy of our outgoing Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, when he retires in May.”

Christine has over 30 years’ experience in local government, with the last 19 years’ in senior leadership roles. Prior to joining Chesterfield Borough Council, Christine worked for Derby City Council for over 20 years, and in her final years as the city council’s Strategic Director for Communities and Place, and Deputy Chief Executive.

Christine, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to find myself just one step away from being appointed as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive. It will be a privilege and honour to take up the role in May.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the council. It is a great place to work with committed councillors and dedicated staff that are as one in relation to wanting to make Chesterfield a thriving borough and improve the quality of life of local people.

“As well as ensuring that the council continues to deliver for its communities, one of my top priorities will be to work with the Leader of the Council to ensure that the council, its residents and businesses are well placed to benefit from the government’s planned reforms of local government within the area of the county of Derbyshire.”

Christine will take up the role of Chief Executive on 4 May 2026, subject to her appointment being approved by Full Council.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield is once again named happiest place to live in the East Midlands

Chesterfield has been ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

The annual study asks thousands of people across Great Britain how they feel about where they live. This year, more than 19,500 residents took part, sharing what truly contributes to their everyday happiness.

Rightmove found that the factors most strongly linked to a positive sense of wellbeing are the simple things that make daily life easier, safer and more enjoyable. Green spaces continue to be among the most valued features in the index, offering places to relax, exercise and connect with nature.  The study also revealed that people living close to a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty typically report higher levels of happiness.

Our town continues to stand out as a place where people feel proud to live. Many contributors said that Chesterfield gives them a strong sense of pride, belonging and community. Access to green landscapes remains particularly important, with those living near the Peak District National Park especially likely to report high levels of wellbeing.

Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield Board Member Ryan Wilkes said:  “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.”

“As a lifelong resident, it’s fantastic to see our brilliant outdoor spaces, local businesses and community spirit highlighted.

“If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home, and that’s without mentioning the abundance of picturesque outdoor spaces on our doorstep!”

Earlier this year, Chesterfield was also named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal.  Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments and regeneration projects, including the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood, which will bring more new homes.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/living

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting