Author: Dom Stevens

New sculpture to celebrate Staveley’s heritage and community

25th August 2025

A striking new sculpture is currently being created to welcome residents and visitors to Staveley town centre. Commissioned as part of the Animate Chesterfield public art programme, the piece will celebrate the town’s rich heritage, wildlife, and community spirit.

The sculpture, titled ‘Cuckoo Boat Sail’, is being developed by acclaimed public artist Coralie Turpin. Inspired by the historic ‘Cuckoo boats’ that once sailed from the Chesterfield Canal to the River Trent, the artwork captures the ingenuity and bravery of Staveley’s ancestors while showcasing the natural beauty of the canal and its surroundings.

“The history around the ingenious people who sailed the Cuckoo boats is an empowering one for Staveley,” said Coralie. “The wildlife along the canal is a genuine wealth to be proud of. The sculpture encapsulates this in its sail-like form, colours and detail. I hope it will help people to imagine how brave their ancestors were.”

Coralie’s research with the Chesterfield Canal Trust uncovered the story of these unique vessels, which were pulled by horses and fitted with sails. They were the only boats on the canal capable of sailing out to sea, and their legacy continues to inspire local pride. The sculpture’s sail-like form will incorporate mosaic designs inspired by local wildlife, leaf veins, and natural structures, encouraging residents to explore and appreciate the biodiversity of the Staveley Canal.

The project has involved extensive engagement with local residents and schools. Coralie has hosted creative workshops with pupils from Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School, as well as sessions with community members at Edge Ministries. These workshops helped gather ideas and inspired mosaic artworks that will be featured on the final sculpture.

“I love art, it’s fun, mixing colours, blending. It makes me feel happy and excited,” said one pupil. Another said, “I thought I wasn’t good at art, but when I look at what I’ve done, I am!”

These contributions will be integrated into the sculpture, ensuring it reflects the voices and creativity of the people who call Staveley home. The final design will use hand-cut mosaic techniques to feature local flora and fauna alongside mini artworks created by pupils, complementing Coralie’s work.

Animate Chesterfield is a public art initiative delivered by Beam in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council. It places creativity and community at the heart of regeneration projects in Chesterfield and Staveley. Funding for the sculpture was secured through planning agreements under the council’s percent for art scheme, which continues on a voluntary basis.

“This sculpture is a celebration of Staveley’s heritage and its vibrant community,” said Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council. “It’s a powerful example of how art can bring people together and create a lasting sense of pride in place.”

The sculpture is expected to be installed later this year. Residents are encouraged to follow its progress and explore the stories and wildlife that inspired its creation.

Learn more about Animate Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

New puppy play area to open in Chesterfield

20th August 2025

DogLand Chesterfield is proud to announce the reopening of its newly rebuilt puppy play area, a vibrant, safe, and purpose-built space for the youngest members of our dog-loving community.

Severe flooding devastated the original puppy pen. But rather than simply rebuild, DogLand Chesterfield saw an opportunity to innovate. The result is a thoughtful environment for puppies’ developmental needs, playful energy, and social curiosity.

“We’ve poured our hearts into this space,” said Dawn Brown, founder of DogLand Chesterfield. “Our pups deserve the best start in life, and this new area is all about giving them a joyful, enriching experience. We can’t wait to see their happy faces bounding around again!”

Local dog owners and trainers were involved in shaping the puppy play area to ensure both safety and enrichment. It includes:

Age-appropriate agility equipment, soft ground surfaces, and shaded zones for rest and cooling down.
Enhanced safety features include higher fencing, improved drainage, and durable materials designed with young dogs in mind.

To celebrate, DogLand Chesterfield is planning a launch event filled with treats, games, and photo opportunities. More information on the puppy play area will be available at https://doglanduk.co.uk/

Dogland supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Connected Futures celebrates workplace role models with learning disabilities and autism

20th August 2025

The Connected Futures project has launched a powerful new video series celebrating employees with learning disabilities (LD) and autism spectrum conditions (ASC) who are thriving in the workplace. The initiative is a partnership between Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), East Midlands County Combined Authority (EMCCA) , Nottinghamshire County Council and Derbyshire County Council. It aims to highlight real stories of success and inspire more inclusive employment practices across the region.

Seven individuals are featured in the videos, each filmed in their workplace and sharing their experiences, job roles, challenges, and advice for others. The series was officially launched in July at a special Role Models Roll-Out event held at the University of Nottingham..

The Connected Futures project was developed in response to evidence showing that young people with LD and/or ASC rarely see people like themselves represented in the workplace. These videos were commissioned to help change that by showcasing relatable examples of success and encouraging more young people into paid employment.

“We are incredibly proud to highlight the stories of these employees, in a range of different job roles and sectors, and with different experiences,” said Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at DEBP. “Our hope is to inspire others to move towards secure employment and inspire more employers to create inclusive, supportive, and sustainable workplaces.”

One of the featured role models, Owen, who works in pest control at the University of Nottingham, shared that one of his initial concerns was that people might think those with disabilities can’t work. Owen and the other role models have shown that this is far from the truth—they have talent, drive, and the ability to succeed.

The Connected Futures project is a strong example of how collaboration across local authorities and education partnerships can lead to meaningful change. It also reflects Chesterfield’s commitment to inclusive growth and opportunity for all.

To view the videos, visit www.youtube.com/@directebp

Direct Education Business Partnership is part of the Chesterfield Champions network, a collective of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions

Posted in About Chesterfield, Skills

Chesterfield Champions business round-up: Strategic growth and investment across the region

19th August 2025

Chesterfield’s business community continues to demonstrate strength, adaptability, and ambition. In this latest round-up, three Chesterfield Champions share major developments in corporate finance, legal services, and purpose-driven leadership.

Shorts Accountants played a pivotal role in a major international acquisition, advising Derbyshire-based Humphreys Holdings Ltd, trading as We Print Lanyards, on its sale to global packaging and label leader CCL Industries Inc. The deal marks significant inward investment into the East Midlands and highlights the strategic value of local SMEs to global brands.

Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts, commented: “It has been a pleasure for the Shorts team to advise the shareholders on this transaction. It represents exciting inward investment into the region, and we look forward to seeing the business flourish with the support of Avery/CCL.”

Banner Jones Solicitors has strengthened its Private Client division with six key appointments across its Sheffield and Chesterfield offices. The expansion includes experienced solicitors, will writers, and paralegals, enhancing the firm’s capacity to deliver expert guidance on Wills, Probate, LPAs, and estate planning. Kathryn Wheeldon,

Head of the Private Client Team, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Tina, Jake, Aimee, Sophie, Lucy and Savannah to the team. Each brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to client care, which is at the heart of everything we do at Banner Jones.” With a growing team of 20 specialists, the firm is well-positioned to meet rising demand and deepen its regional footprint.

The Devonshire Group has welcomed Kathryn Fleming as its new Chief Financial Officer, bringing over 30 years of senior financial leadership experience to the role. Kathryn joins at a time of continued growth and purpose-led transformation for the Group, which spans heritage, hospitality, property, conservation and charitable activity across the UK and Ireland.

“The Devonshire Group is an interconnected ecosystem – every business, estate and initiative is united by a shared set of values and a long-term vision,” said Kathryn. “My job is not just to protect our legacy, but actively build on it in a sustainable, responsible and ambitious manner, with the communities we serve at heart.”

Stephen Vickers, Chief Executive of the Devonshire Group, added: “We are delighted to welcome Kathryn to the team. She combines exceptional financial leadership with a deep appreciation of the Devonshire Group’s vision and values.”

Chesterfield Champions is a network of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions

Posted in Business, Home

Chesterfield champions celebrated nationally for excellence, innovation and impact

15th August 2025

Four Chesterfield-based organisations have recently earned prestigious national recognition, showcasing the town’s strength in healthcare innovation, sustainable hospitality, creative entrepreneurship and education. These achievements reflect the calibre of businesses operating in Chesterfield and reinforce its reputation as a thriving place to live, work, and invest.

Walton Lodge Farm achieves Red Tractor certification

Walton Lodge Farm Estate, the 360-acre working farm owned by Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel founder Steve Perez, has achieved Red Tractor certification, a trusted mark of food quality, traceability, and sustainability.

Home to native-breed livestock and honeybees, the farm supplies seasonal produce directly to Cocina Restaurant at Casa Hotel and The Red Lion at Peak Edge Hotel, offering diners a true farm-to-fork experience.

“Our ethos has always been about farming with care, for our animals, the land, and the people who enjoy our produce,” said Craig Ellis, Farm Manager.

“The Red Tractor certification reassures everyone who dines with us that our food meets the highest standards,” added Alan Rigby, Executive Chef.

This achievement reinforces Chesterfield’s growing reputation for sustainable hospitality and culinary excellence.

DSFS wins national award for collaborative NHS procurement

Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS), a subsidiary of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been honoured with the Collaborative Procurement Initiative Award at the UK National GO Awards.

The accolade recognises DSFS’s pivotal role in delivering a major digital transformation across the NHS through the procurement of the Nervecentre Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system. Launched simultaneously at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton in February 2025, the system is already improving patient outcomes and freeing up clinical time.

“This national recognition highlights what can be achieved through innovative thinking and close partnership,” said Stuart Ellis, Commercial and Strategy Director at DSFS. “I’m extremely proud of our procurement teams in delivering this project.”

The EPR system is expected to return 4.9 million hours to patient care over seven years, setting a new benchmark for digital efficiency in healthcare.

CRUSH founder shortlisted for national business women’s award

Natalie Burkinshaw, founder of Chesterfield-based design and creative marketing agency CRUSH, has been named a finalist in the Business Owner of the Year category at the National Business Women’s Awards.

Natalie launched CRUSH in 2003 as a single mother in her twenties, building a successful studio in a male-dominated industry. Today, CRUSH is an award-winning agency with global clients, including the iconic Ministry of Sound.

“I’m proud to be recognised for all the work myself and the team have done over the years here at CRUSH,” said Natalie. “Good luck to everyone shortlisted!”

Her story highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and creative resilience thriving in Chesterfield’s business community.

Kip McGrath named Independent Educator of the Year 2025

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West, led by Lorna Bell, has been named Independent Educator of the Year 2025 by Business Awards UK.

The centre delivers high-quality, tailored English and maths tutoring to students aged five and above, supporting learners of all abilities from those needing intervention to high-achievers.

Under Lorna’s leadership, the centre has grown from 40 to over 315 sessions delivered weekly, representing more than 750 percent growth. Over the past year, it has supported more than 120 students, with measurable improvements in academic performance and confidence.

Lorna has also registered the centre as an Alternative Provision, offering education to young people not currently in school, and has created an inclusive environment that welcomes children with SEN and EAL needs. “We’re not just tutoring, we’re inspiring,” said Lorna. “Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.” The award recognises the centre’s outstanding impact on local education and its commitment to raising aspirations through personalised learning.

Get involved with Chesterfield Champions

The Chesterfield Champions network brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals who are passionate about promoting Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a collective voice shaping the town’s future.

Whether you’re a local business, a growing enterprise, or a community organisation, becoming a Champion is a powerful way to showcase your commitment to Chesterfield and connect with like-minded leaders.

To learn more or join the Chesterfield Champions network, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

86 Degrees Coffee named premium UK dealer for de Jong DUKE

14th August 2025

86 Degrees Coffee Ltd has been appointed as a Premium UK Dealer for Dutch coffee machine manufacturer de Jong DUKE, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth and national reach.

Based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, 86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. provides tailored coffee solutions to workplaces and commercial clients across the UK. The dealership agreement includes the rights to sell, service, and support de Jong DUKE’s full portfolio of advanced coffee machines, trusted by businesses in over 60 countries.

At the heart of this collaboration is ConnectMe, de Jong DUKE’s two-way connectivity platform. Integrated into their machines, ConnectMe allows businesses to monitor usage and schedule maintenance remotely, activate energy-saving modes during idle periods, and share branded content, announcements, or promotions via the machine’s interface.

“Being named a Premium Dealer is a proud moment for us,” said Chris Harwood, speaking for 86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. “With de Jong DUKE’s innovation and our market expertise, we’re redefining what businesses can expect from their coffee solutions.”

Both companies share a vision for delivering high-quality coffee experiences while supporting environmental goals. de Jong DUKE machines feature energy-efficient modes, recyclable components, and advanced waste management systems.

To support the rollout of de Jong DUKE’s range, 86 Degrees Coffee is expanding its technical service network and planning a series of events, training sessions, and bespoke demos, both on-site and at proposed demo hubs nationwide. This expansion marks a new chapter for the Chesterfield business, which continues to grow its footprint while maintaining its commitment to quality and customer service.

86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. is part of the Chesterfield Champions network, a collective of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Little Castle reopens as Woodie’s following magical makeover

13th August 2025

A Chesterfield pub has revealed its new look following refurbishment. The Little Castle, located in Markham Vale, is now known as Woodie’s, a new family-friendly concept from Marston’s.

The transformation features a woodland-themed den with games, crafts, discos, karaoke and quizzes. Meanwhile, outside, kids can enjoy a brand-new play area while parents relax nearby with a drink or meal.

The Little Castle reopened its doors last week as Woodie’s. During opening weekend, locals shared their favourite memories of The Little Castle in exchange for a free pint. The team now displays these stories on a memory wall, keen for the community to play a part in the pub’s next chapter.

Sarah Barker, a Community Relationship Fundraiser for Ashgate Hospice, joined General Manager, Sara Hargreaves to pour the first pint. Woodie’s chose Sarah as The Little Castle’s community hero for all the work she does in fundraising for the local area. This includes the charity’s 10km Sparkle Night Walk held each July.

Sara Hargreaves, General Manager at The Little Castle, said: “We’re so excited to be able to welcome all of our locals back to The Little Castle. It was an honour to be joined by [Ashgate Hospice’s] Sarah to pull the first pint; she does so much for our community.”

The team plans a series of events to encourage local people to visit. Kids can enjoy a two-hour disco every Friday night from 4:00pm. Two-hour craft sessions take place on Saturdays from noon.

Alongside a menu of pub classics, kids can also visit the Woodie’s Sweet Factory. This self-serve treat bar invites you to swap magic tokens for toppings to create your own sundae.

Furthermore, families can enjoy great value dining throughout the summer. Kids eat for just £1 every day, and free every Wednesday.

Discover more ideas for eating out in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer

Most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands

12th August 2025

Chesterfield has been identified as the most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands according to a survey by Lloyds Bank.

The town has been ranked the second most affordable market town in England for first-time buyers and fifth across all buyers.

In Chesterfield, first-time buyers paid on average £198,054 for their home, while the average for all house purchases was £248,658. The survey tracks the cost of houses in 116 market towns in England using house price data from the Halifax.

Andrew Asaam, Homes Director, Lloyds said, “It’s no wonder market towns have stood the test of time with home-buyers, whether people are stepping onto the first rung of the housing ladder, or are making a move to their next home. These charming locations are filled with historic landmarks and architecture, quaint charm and community spirit, offering a calmer pace of life, often within the reaches of bigger towns and cities.”

Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been 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 consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Property Estates, sees the town’s regeneration as a model for sustainable, community-led growth.

“I’ve already seen a shift in the types of properties people require. Buyers and renters want more than just a home; they want neighbourhoods that offer lifestyle, connectivity, and value. With renewed investment, we can expect smarter housing developments that blend design, sustainability, and affordability.”

More new homes are on the way, including a new £78 million scheme by Honey Homes, and regeneration projects like the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood.

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

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure

Community groups awarded over £450,000

11th August 2025

Over £450,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to community groups across Chesterfield, helping them to deliver key projects to build a resilient and healthy borough.

As part of the Community Grants Fund scheme, the latest round of funding has seen a share of £142,910.98 awarded to 26 community groups and voluntary organisations from across the town.

This means that since the Community Grants Fund scheme was launched in 2023 by Chesterfield Borough Council, a total of £454,788.59 has now been awarded to 102 different organisations from across the borough, with funding already being used to make a positive impact on local communities.

The grants are being used to allow local groups to build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods by tackling food poverty and social isolation and helping people get back into work.

It is also continuing to support initiatives that will reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

The latest groups to receive funding are:

Chesterfield Foodbank
Duckmanton Miners Welfare
1st / 2nd Derbyshire Scout Group
Hollingwood Sheds
Chesterfield Litter Pickers
Samba Foundation
Chesterfield Filipino Community Association
3rd/4th Derbyshire FSE Scout Group
Verba – Ukrainian Social Group of Derbyshire
Our Vision Our Future
Ashgate Hospice
Community Development Chesterfield
Chesterfield and NE Pakistani Christian Group
Thistle Park Friends, Brimington
Standing Tall
SPACE Counselling Chesterfield
Ashgate Allotment Society
2nd Brampton Scouts
Chesterfield & North Eastern Chinese Elders community
Woodthorpe Community Liaison Group
Asian Association Chesterfield and North Derbyshire
Loundsley Green Community Trust
Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre
Pathways of Chesterfield
Chatsworth Wellbeing Centre
Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust

Loundsley Green Community Trust will be using the grant funding to make energy efficiency and environmental improvements to its centre, meaning that it can continue to deliver key projects for the local community.

The trust’s secretary, Paul Davies, said: “At Loundsley Green Community Centre we have a constant eye on our environmental impact and, over the years, have invested in a number of improvements to reduce our energy consumption and our carbon footprint.

“So, we were delighted to receive this grant, which will enable us to install solar panels and batteries in the building that will significantly reduce the amount of energy that we will import, reducing our carbon footprint. It will also reduce our energy costs, which will enable us to keep hire costs to our users as low as possible, thus providing a knock-on benefit to many other local community groups and projects.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We’re lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that can have a huge impact on our local communities.

“I’m pleased that, through external funding schemes such as this, we can support so many of these groups that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“We’ve already seen some groups deliver some fantastic projects with the funding they have received from this scheme, and we can’t wait to see how the community groups and organisations use the funding to bring their projects to life.”

Applications for funding through the Community Grants Fund scheme are currently closed, but eligible groups will be able to apply for funding again from the end of September 2025. More information, including eligibility criteria, can be found at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/community-grants-fund

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

Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded a further £1.1m through the UKSPF, to deliver a range of projects until March 2026. The funding was allocated to the council by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

New minibus and office space provide more opportunities to support young people

8th August 2025

Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) has recently taken delivery of a minibus to further expand its programme offer to schools.

The minibus has been kindly sponsored by MSE Hiller, a Chesterfield-based company that supplies, rents and services centrifuges and environmental engineering products to the water and industrial effluent treatment sectors.

MSE Hiller supports many of DEBP’s programmes, including Made in Chesterfield, where they offer workplace tours to give students the chance to learn about and see what it is like working in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing and construction industries and careers.

Laura Duck, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said, “We offer a range of careers and employability programmes to support young people, but this mainly takes place in school or with a host organisation. Over the last academic year we have been welcoming students to our new learning space in Chesterfield. Whilst we offered transportation, the associated costs meant there were limitations based on school locations and distance to travel. With our own minibus, we can expand access to some of our programmes.”

A newly reconfigured office space has also created a new on-site learning area to deliver a range of programmes to support young people.

The programmes offered on-site include the Supported Insight Scheme, a work placement for small groups of students with special educational needs and disabilities. It supports students to learn about the world of work, whilst acquiring a range of transferable skills. It involves creating a range of marketing materials to support a business need or an upcoming company event.

They also offer Future Focus, which links with the Bolsover Partnership and Bolsover District Council to support the co-production of a ‘creative hub’ within the district. Students come up with innovative ideas for the hub and present these to employers associated with the planning process at the end of the programme.

Sophie Haley, Future Focus Programme Leader said, “The open-plan learning space is designed to be welcoming, helping students to feel at ease, and build their confidence. With the addition of the minibus, we’re able to invite more schools and support more young people to recognise their potential.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Quality of life draws investors and residents to Chesterfield say business leaders

7th August 2025

Local people continue to praise our town as an attractive place to live, invest and work.

Business leaders discussed Chesterfield’s benefits at the latest Champions’ roundtable, hosted by SMH Group.

Earlier this year, the Guardian’s named our town as one of the  happiest places to live in the UK.

Currently, housing developers prepare for an increase in demand. With 2,000 homes planned for Staveley and Mastin Moor, and hundreds more on the way close to our town centre.

So, what makes Chesterfield such a desirable place to live?

Prime location

Firstly, our town’s proximity to key destinations, including Sheffield and the Peak District, make Chesterfield ideal for both business and lifestyle.

“You can get to the city if you want, but then come back to calm,” said Gareth Dillon of Killingley. “It’s safe, relaxed, and has everything you need.”

Alberto Naso, owner of Geeks Headquarters agrees, describing Chesterfield as a refreshing change from the fast pace of Milan where he’s from originally.

“It’s a human-sized town,” Alberto said. “You can build your business at your own pace without pressure. Everything is more breathable.”

Green spaces

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. 

And thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, our town consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Jessica Risorto, Director at Redbrik, “Another key trend is the rise in young families settling in Chesterfield. Our town’s schools, parks, and strong sense of community are drawing people in, and we’re even seeing extended families relocating from out of town to be closer to loved ones who’ve already made the move.”

More experiences

The conversation also highlighted Chesterfield’s independent businesses and the evolving town centre.

Matthew Southgate from Chesterfield Borough Council noted that major projects like the Stephenson Memorial Hall refurbishment and Market Square regeneration are designed to support early evening activity and attract more families and visitors. “We’re creating event spaces that will anchor activity. That’s how we build a thriving town centre, more events, more footfall, more investment.”

Richard Sherwood of Roy Peters Estates praised the role of independents in revitalising the area.

“We’ve got great independents, sweet shops, financial services, and creative businesses,” he said. “They’re investing in the town and creating vibrant spaces.”

A recent investor is Alberto, who moved his gaming shop, Geeks Headquarters to a bigger, more visible location, beside our evolving market.

“We’ve been here in Chesterfield 10 years,” said Alberto. “But people still say they didn’t know we existed. We moved to be seen and to help bring life back to the town centre.”

Strong identity

While Chesterfield is expanding with more housing on the way, participants emphasised the importance of maintaining our town’s identity.

“It’s not too small to be insignificant, but not too big to be intimidating,” said Gareth Dillon. “We need to grow carefully, so we don’t lose what makes Chesterfield special.”

Peter Lawrence added that organic growth is key. “We want housing that supports local families and talent,” he said. It’s about balance and quality of life.”

Community spirit

The group agreed that our people make Chesterfield special. Participants spoke warmly about the friendliness and openness of the community.

“People here are sociable,” said Gareth. “You can bump into someone on the street and have a laugh. That kind of relaxed atmosphere is rare.”

Luke Catt shared a story about a local bowls competition that brought together schoolchildren and older residents.

“It was amazing to see kids and pensioners laughing and playing together,” said Luke. That’s the kind of community spirit Chesterfield has, and we need to protect it.”

Luke Catt from SMH Group, highlighted how safe he feels here.

“As a child, the town centre always felt safe,” Luke said. “Now, as a parent of a child with a disability, I see how accessible and supportive Chesterfield is. The infrastructure is there even if you don’t notice it until you need it.”

Peter Lawrence from East Midlands Chamber noted a shift in values post-pandemic.

He said, “People are coming back to what matters, quality of life, health, wellbeing, and balance. Chesterfield offers all of that, and more.”

Gillian Scotford of Accessible UK shared how Chesterfield’s inclusive infrastructure supports families with additional needs.

“We’ve created over 100 accessible days out based around Chesterfield,” said Gillian. “That’s rare. And with the hospital, health centres, and changing places toilets, it’s a place where families with complex needs can thrive.”

New houses in Chesterfield

Upcoming housing developments in our town include a £78 million scheme by Honey Homes, the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and more town centre living.

Looking to discover more about Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home