Author: Dom Stevens

New waterside development offers office, retail and dining opportunities

A project to transform Staveley’s canal basin has taken another step forward with the completion of The Moorings, a two-storey waterside development led by Derbyshire County Council.The Moorings is expected to create between 40 and 60 new jobs, which will contribute to the local economy and attract visitors to the Chesterfield Canal and the surrounding area.

The development, part of the £25 million Government-funded programme Staveley Town Deal, is ready to welcome its first occupants with a mixture of office, retail and leisure areas on offer.

The building offers 6 office units on the first floor available to rent, ranging in size from 450 square feet to 750 square feet (42 metres squared to 70 metres squared). On the ground floor, there are units suitable for retail use and a larger area that will be used for a restaurant or café-bar. The restaurant area overlooks the canal basin and has an outdoor dining area.

Access to the area has been improved with a new road and footpath, and should encourage more visitors to make recreational use of the canal for walking, cycling and boating.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Councillor Rob Reaney, said:  “It’s great to see the completion of the Moorings building at Staveley, which will be a fantastic waterside destination for both local people and visitors to enjoy.

“We’re inviting contact from retail, dining and other businesses looking to relocate or expand into this purpose-built space and we’ve already received considerable interest from a number of potential tenants.

“We look forward to seeing businesses moving into The Moorings and opening up to customers, creating  jobs and new leisure opportunities for the area.”

The Moorings is being managed and funded by our partnership with the Staveley Town Deal, which is overseen by Chesterfield Borough Council. The Town Deal is providing £3.5 million of the £4.5 million cost of the project, with the balance being met by Derbyshire County Council.

This building forms part of the wider Markham Vale programme of works, a flagship, 85-hectare business park based on the site of the old Markham Colliery. The programme is a joint venture being delivered jointly with HBD focused on attracting and supporting businesses to thrive.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “I’m thrilled to see this prominent project right by the canal, completed. This landmark development is a key part of the Town Deal programme as it will help create new jobs and encourage people to explore the historic canal, contributing to our overall goal of ensuring that Staveley is a place where everyone can start, stay, and grow.”

Discover more about the Staveley Town Deal Projects.

Find out more about available commercial property in Chesterfield.

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

Closer public and private sector ties will support Chesterfield’s growth

At the recent UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) held in Leeds, the vision for Chesterfield’s ambitious £2bn regeneration programme was discussed.

Chesterfield is undergoing a significant transformation and regeneration programme, with an overarching ambition to turn it into one of the East Midland’s most exciting and dynamic growth regions.

Example activities include the project revitalising the heart of Chesterfield and its historic marketplace, the Markham Vale enterprise zone, the Chesterfield Waterside project and the PEAK gateway resort.

Sarah Wills, Associate Director at planning consultancy nineteen47, which is also a member of the Chesterfield Champions network of regional businesses, commented: “It’s impossible not to think about how to achieve inclusive, sustainable regional growth without considering the role housing delivery has to play.”

It is estimated that the Chesterfield regeneration projects are set to deliver 3,900 homes, 7,800 jobs and an extra £473m to the regional economy.

Alongside this, Chesterfield Borough Council in its 2024-27 housing strategy has laid out aspirations for what it describes as “good quality homes, a pleasant environment and strong communities”.

“There is already momentum in Chesterfield toward a collaborative effort to tackle the ambitious but necessary housing targets faced by the district. With these targets in mind, it’s important that this momentum is maintained. This is a highly collaborative effort, and closer public-private working will be an important part in achieving this,” commented Sarah.

Building closer partnerships was a key part of the discussions at a recent meeting of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group forum. This initiative is part of the Chesterfield Champions Network and brings together leaders from the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council.

“There’s already a level of collaboration between the public and private sectors in Chesterfield as seen through the Destination Chesterfield Property and Construction Group,” highlights Sarah.

Sarah highlights the example of the Construction Skills Hub run by Chesterfield College and situated at Mastin Moor site of the Devonshire Group, the organisation which manages the Chatsworth Estate. The aim of this initiative is to train and develop new skills for future generations of construction professionals, which is a vital area to ensure sustained housing delivery.

“The Construction Skills Hub is a strong example of how public-private collaborations can enhance regional housing delivery through skills and education.”

Beyond skills and training, Sarah explains how a significant element of closer collaboration is about leveraging the extensive expertise amongst private sector operators and bringing these conversations to public partners.

From a practical standpoint, Sarah highlights the management of submitting and progressing planning applications to ensure they align with the council’s housing and communities vision.

“The planning process is widely acknowledged as a complex process, and it is a target for widespread legislative reform.”

Chesterfield Borough Council has set out a strong agenda for growth over the coming years, which leverages strategic positioning close to the M1 and proximity to wider established areas undergoing economic development, such as Sheffield and Derby.

Or as Sarah puts it: “Chesterfield is at a real, and exciting, turning point, building on its proud history and strong industrial heritage to create a thriving place for people to live and work.

“It’s important we maintain momentum and embrace a vision-led approach to ensure housing targets are not only achieved, but they are right for Chesterfield, for its community, economy and its future.”

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Property and Construction

Staveley town centre transformation progresses

The multi-million pound regeneration of Staveley town centre is on track to be completed this year.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, started on site last November – the new landmark building is in place with work set to begin on the glazing and external brickwork. In the wider market square, paving work has been completed outside the shops, and the new layout of the square is beginning to take shape.

Local businesses have also been utilising shop front grants to improve their premises and make them more attractive.

The town centre works are expected to be completed by Christmas this year. The building is set to be the future home of Derbyshire County Council’s Staveley Library.

Representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council and the Staveley Town Deal Board visited the site to see how the works are progressing.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This project is really starting to come together, and you can get a feel for how the completed square will look once complete. This is a transformational project which will help encourage more people to visit the town centre and support both existing and new businesses.

“There are lots of different elements included in this project, including things that will help make the area more attractive, but also important things like improved signage to help visitors navigate the area and improved CCTV and lighting, which ensures the town centre is always a safe and welcoming place. We are working with town centre businesses and traders to try and minimise disruption to ensure that they can continue trading throughout the works, and once complete, we hope they will all benefit from these improvements.”

The Staveley 21 project received just over £6 million of funding from the Staveley Town Deal, a £25.2 million programme that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “This is a key project within the Town Deal programme, and it is fantastic to see works progressing so quickly. It will make a huge difference to Staveley, and I can’t wait to see the project complete later this year.”

The town centre works are being delivered by complete construction partner Stepnell.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “We’re continuing to make strong progress across all areas of the Staveley 21 project, with our focus firmly on completing the pavilion building to a high standard, ready for completion before the end of the year.

“Ongoing engagement and close collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council, our partners, and the local community – including Staveley Junior School – have been pivotal to delivering this landmark town centre regeneration. Minimising disruption to the public and keeping social value at the heart of the transformation remain key priorities as we move forward.”

Work to install windows on the new pavilion building will begin shortly, the building will then be clad in a traditional red-brick to be in-keeping with the rest of the town centre.

Internal works will then see the downstairs turned into a new home for Derbyshire County Council’s Staveley Library and the upstairs fitted out as office space.

In the wider square works to the paving are ongoing and the new play area will be installed in September once groundworks are completed.

Designs for the play equipment have been developed in collaboration with pupils from Staveley Junior School, who visited the site with Stepnell and took part in a workshop to discuss what kind of equipment they would like to see installed.

Through the Animate Chesterfield public art project, Coralie Turpin has been appointed to work with the community and develop a new piece of artwork that will celebrate Staveley’s heritage and develop designs that can be incorporated into the new paving.

Taking inspiration from Staveley’s heritage and working with local schools the final design is set to be unveiled soon.

To find out more about the Staveley 21 project and the Staveley Town Deal visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Discover more about regeneration projects taking place in Chesterfield.

Posted in Development, Home

New campaign promotes Derbyshire as a top value destination

‘Summer is a Big Deal’, is a new campaign celebrating everything that makes summer in Derbyshire unforgettable. Running from July to September, it champions the county as a great value summer destination, promoting it as accessible, affordable, and full of enriching experiences for all ages.

Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby have developed the campaign which highlights family fun and local festivals to unbeatable deals on days out, dining, and overnight stays, the campaign invites visitors and residents alike to make the most of the season closer to home.

At the heart of the campaign is a call to discover Derbyshire’s standout attractions – from dramatic castles and spectacular show caverns to grand stately homes, vibrant cultural venues, and world-class heritage sites.

By showcasing the wide range of affordable attractions and activities available across the county, the campaign demonstrates how Derbyshire delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality or enjoyment, encouraging visitors to make smart use of their time and money while supporting local businesses.

The campaign includes:

  • Exclusive Offers – Special summer deals from local businesses on food, accommodation, attractions, and events.
  • Events & Experiences – Promotion of family-friendly events, festivals and experiences that highlight Derbyshire’s rich cultural offer.
  • Car-Free Itineraries – Easy-to-follow itineraries and green discount schemes to encourage visitors to travel by train or bus and discover more of the region without a car.
  • Digital Promotion – Targeted digital and social media adverts, featuring high-impact advertising at major railway stations such as Manchester Piccadilly, Birmingham New Street, and Sheffield.

The ‘Summer is a Big Deal’ campaign supports Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby LVEP’s core aims of increasing visitor spend, encouraging overnight stays, and promoting sustainable and accessible visits across the region.

To explore what’s on and take advantage of summer deals, visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/bigdeal.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We know people are looking for quality experiences that offer great value and Derbyshire delivers exactly that. From family-friendly attractions to vibrant festivals and hands-on experiences, ‘Summer is a Big Deal’ captures the spirit of the season and reinforces the message that unforgettable summer adventures can be found right here on our doorstep.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “It’s the perfect time to explore the Peak District and wider Derbyshire to experience everything it has to offer: city breaks, heritage experiences, and the stunning natural environment. This is why I am so focused on strengthening the visitor economy in the region, investing in assets and infrastructure to create jobs which power these experiences, and partners like Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby are critical to achieving this.”

The campaign is funded by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. Supporting the visitor economy is a key strategic aim of the authority, which recognises the sector as an important driver of local economic growth and job creation.

The visitor economy is worth £2.89 billion to the Peak District and Derbyshire, supporting approximately 30,000 jobs and driving prosperity across local communities.

By investing in campaigns like this through the Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby LVEP, EMCCA is delivering on its visitor economy strategy to raise the profile of the region’s tourism sector while bolstering the East Midlands’ long-term appeal as a must-visit destination.

In Chesterfield there is an exciting programme of events and activities this summer.

Local blogger Mollie Scott has shared her favourite things to do and personal recommendations for a family-friendly weekend in Chesterfield. Check it out at https://lovelylocalindie.com/2025/06/17/family-friendly-chesterfield/

Feel inspired by exploring adventures, experiences and days out.  Make the most of a packed line-up of festivals, family-friendly events, and heritage experiences.

Head to www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer for more inspiration.

Explore this summer in Chesterfield

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Chesterfield Celebrates 200 Years of Railway History at Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Barrow Hill Roundhouse near Chesterfield will host a spectacular three-day gala this October to mark 200 years since the birth of the modern railway.

From Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October 2025, visitors will experience a once-in-a-generation celebration at the UK’s only surviving operational railway roundhouse. The event will feature iconic locomotives, including the legendary A3 60103 “Flying Scotsman”, which will be on display and hauling trains across the weekend.

This milestone year commemorates the world’s first passenger railway journey between Stockton and Darlington in 1825 and Chesterfield is proudly joining the national celebrations with an event that honours its deep-rooted rail heritage.

Alongside the Flying Scotsman, the gala will showcase a Class 55 “Deltic”, LMS 3F “Jinty” 16440, and other historic engines to be announced. Visitors can enjoy train rides, heritage exhibits, trade stands, local food and drink, and free parking.

A highlight of the weekend will be the world premiere of “I Am George Stephenson”, a new play created by Graves Youth Theatre and Paul Whitfield. Performed at 2pm and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday, the show offers a humorous and imaginative look at the life of the railway pioneer who made Chesterfield his home. Performances are included in the ticket price, but seats must be reserved when booking.

Barrow Hill Roundhouse Turntable Demonstration

Mervyn Allcock, General Manager of Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “We are delighted to be putting on such a great show to celebrate this significant anniversary for the railways, particularly as George Stephenson, who played such an important part in the events of 200 years ago, made Chesterfield his home in later life.”

Craig Bentley, Director of the National Railway Museum, added: “Barrow Hill Roundhouse has a remarkable story and demonstrates the determination needed to keep the UK’s railway heritage alive. In this milestone year for the railways, we are delighted to be able to offer our support by bringing the world’s most famous locomotive to the nation’s last surviving operational roundhouse.”

Tickets are available now via SeeTickets.

If you are looking for some rail fun before the celebration, why not join a special train running day at Barrow Hill Roundhouse on the 16th and 17th August? Journey up the Springwell branch line on brake vans, top and tailed by two Roundhouse locomotives.

Entry includes access to the Roundhouse Museum and exhibitions, and turntable and signal box demonstrations.

Barrow Hill Roundhouse is part of an exciting programme of events and activities this summer.

Feel inspired by exploring adventures, experiences and days out.  Make the most of a packed line-up of festivals, family-friendly events, and heritage experiences.

Head to www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer for more inspiration.

Explore this summer in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Thousands of families visit Chesterfield Children’s Festival

More than 6,000 people gathered at Queen’s Park over the weekend to enjoy the third annual Chesterfield Children’s Festival, hosted by local arts charity Junction Arts.

The two-day celebration of arts, culture, and creativity delivered a jam-packed programme of free, family-friendly entertainment for visitors of all ages.

The festival featured live music, theatre, storytelling, dance, circus skills, art workshops, beatboxing, comedy and more, with every activity designed to spark imagination and bring people together through play and creativity.

A standout moment from the weekend was the immersive performance Story Chefs by Derby-based theatre company Maison Foo, which took families on a globe-trotting adventure filled with puppetry, music and interactive theatre.  Serving up delicious food as part of their performance.

Also returning by popular demand was Everybody Dance, a mass dance-along developed in partnership with students from Spire Junior School and professional choreographers. On Saturday, crowds joined in the joyful movement piece that got the entire park dancing.

Sunday’s highlights included live comedy, baby-friendly sensory circus workshops, and interactive drumming sessions.

Throughout the weekend, families also explored the Post Office of Possibilities (P.O.P.), an immersive theatre experience created by Buxton’s Babbling Vagabonds with young people from Boza Youth Club. The interactive set encouraged visitors to write positive postcards and letters to their future selves, all while exploring drawers of surprises and curious objects.

The festival also celebrated young musical talent through performances curated by The Noise Academy, with young DJs and artists showcasing their skills and running beatboxing masterclasses throughout the weekend.

To ensure accessibility for all, Junction Arts worked with RevolOOtion to provide a mobile, accessible toilet and changing facility. The event also featured BSL interpreters, an audio version of the festival programme, and the newly introduced Wellness Tipi – a quiet space funded by Children in Need to support visitors who needed a calm retreat.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said: “Wow, what an amazing weekend! It was wonderful to see families spending quality time together, exploring, playing, dancing and laughing. This festival is all about inclusion, joy and imagination, and we’re so proud to offer an event that is completely free and accessible.”

Now in its third year, the Chesterfield Children’s Festival has cemented itself as a beloved summer fixture, providing high-quality arts experiences for local families and visitors from across the region.

For more information or to see highlights from the festival, visit: www.junctionarts.org or follow @JunctionArtsUK on social media.

Chesterfield Children’s Festival is part of an exciting programme of events and activities this summer.

Feel inspired by exploring adventures, experiences and days out.  Make the most of a packed line-up of festivals, family-friendly events, and heritage experiences.

Head to www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer for more inspiration.

Explore this summer in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Summer, Visiting

New Asian-inspired eatery ‘Pluto’ brings fresh flavour to Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield’s food scene has a new addition with the arrival of Pluto, an independent business bringing authentic Asian street snacks and desserts to the heart of the town centre.

Founded by Stanley Chan, Pluto opened its doors with a mission to deliver joy, discovery, and health through food. From fluffy Japanese cheesecakes and colourful fruit sandwiches to crispy Taiwanese fried chicken and bubble tea, Pluto offers a fresh and exciting experience.

Stanley said: “Food has always been in my blood. My parents and extended family have worked in the food business for many years, and I grew up surrounded by the warmth, creativity, and care that goes into preparing meals. That passion stayed with me, and in 2010, I started my first venture, an online shop called Snacknsnack.com, which focused on selling Japanese snacks.

Now, Pluto is the next chapter in my journey, a space where I want to share the happiness that food can bring. Our concept is simple: joy, discovery, and health through food. We bring popular and authentic Asian street snacks and desserts to the heart of Chesterfield, giving people a chance to experience something new and delicious.”

Pluto’s arrival is a welcome addition to Chesterfield’s growing independent food and drink scene, adding further diversity to the town centre. Stanley chose Chesterfield for its strong sense of community and openness to new ideas.

“Chesterfield immediately felt like home. It’s a town with a strong sense of community and a real appreciation for local, independent businesses. What stood out to me was the vibrancy of the people here, friendly, curious, and open to trying something different.”

Dominic Staniforth, Board Member of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Pluto is a fantastic example of the kind of independent business that makes Chesterfield special. It adds something different to the town centre and reflects the growing appetite for diverse food experiences.”

With a menu inspired by the street food culture of Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, Pluto offers something different for Chesterfield. Its playful approach to food and focus on quality ingredients have already caught the attention of customers.

As part of the town’s growing independent scene, Pluto adds a new layer of variety to the high street and gives people another reason to explore what Chesterfield has to offer.

Pluto is located on low payment adjacent to New Square.  Discover more on their facebook page.

Check out some other tasty ideas of places to eat in Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield champions round-up: Community, collaboration and local impact

From environmental innovation and cultural celebration to charitable giving and professional networking, Chesterfield Champions continues to lead with purpose. Here’s a look at some of the inspiring initiatives and partnerships making a difference across the borough.

Rain Garden Planters Bring Green Innovation to Holmebrook Valley Park

Thanks to a £5,254 grant from Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Fund, two rain garden planters have been installed at Holmebrook Valley Park. Delivered by the Don Catchment Rivers Trust in partnership with BioScapes and local volunteers, the planters help reduce flood risk and support biodiversity.

The planters collect rainwater from the pavilion roof, slowing its release into the drainage system. They also feature habitats for bees, butterflies, amphibians, and hedgehogs.

“This is a great use of community grant funding,” said Cllr Martin Stone, “providing wildlife habitats and slowing the flow of rainwater into our drains and sewers.”

Tapton Lock Festival Returns with Festivity in 2025

The Tapton Lock Festival returns on 6–7 September 2025, promising a weekend of free, family-friendly fun along the Chesterfield Canal. This year, the festival partners with Arts Derbyshire’s Festivity tour, bringing even more music, art, and storytelling to the water’s edge.

Festival favourites like canal boat rides, climbing walls, and circus skills will return, alongside new highlights including:

  • Performances by Michael Vickers and Sarah Hinds
  • A digital art gallery and spoken word programme
  • Nature-inspired workshops led by Nicki Dennett and Paola DeGio

“I’m delighted that Festivity is joining us to bring even more cultural experiences to Chesterfield,” said Jane Wells, Project Manager at Junction Arts.

£40,000 Granted to Local Charities by Minorfern Foundation

Chesterfield-based vehicle parts distributor SDL Minorfern has marked the first year of its charitable arm, the Minorfern Foundation, by awarding £40,000 to ten small charities across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and Yorkshire.

Launched in 2024 and run in partnership with the Matthew Good Foundation, the initiative empowers SDL Minorfern staff to nominate causes close to their hearts. Beneficiaries include Brinsley Animal Rescue, Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity, and Fairplay, among others.

“Supporting such a wide range of small charities has been both inspiring and humbling,” said Julie Salter, People & Culture Director at SDL Minorfern.

Next-Gen Professionals Build New Business Network

A new networking group, launched by Handelsbanken Chesterfield, is bringing together the town’s emerging professionals to connect, collaborate and grow.

The group has already hosted informal meetups, including rounders at Queen’s Park and socials at The Gasoline Bar, with plans underway for a Rounders League and more networking events.

Join Chesterfield Champions to pledge your support for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

If you are passionate about Chesterfield and are keen to help raise the profile of the town and your business, the team at Destination Chesterfield would love to work with you.  Find out more about becoming a Chesterfield Champion.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Winners of Chesterfield’s Best Bar None 2025 awards crowned

The ‘best’ in Chesterfield have been crowned at the annual Best Bar None 2025 Awards, an event that celebrates positive steps licensed venues are taking to improve nighttime safety.

Sponsored by Global Brands and Gough and Kelly, the annual Best Bar None awards took place at the SMH Group Stadium on Wednesday, 23 July, where more than 20 venues from across the borough were recognised for their commitment to creating a safer night out.

A total of 27 licensed premises picked up their Best Bar None accreditation, including: Apartment, Aruba, Association, Beach and Groove, Brampton Social, Bulls Head, Chandlers, Chesterfield Arms, Chesterfield Football Club, Crown and Anchor, Crown and Cushion, Derby Tup, Dirty Habit, Donkey Derby, Einstein’s, GAS Bar, Holme Hall Inn, Junction Bar, Lockoford Inn, Original Gravity, Portland Hotel, Rose and Crown, Rosie O’Learys, Spa Lane Vaults, Star Inn, Winding Wheel and Ye Royal Oak (Shambles).

As well as the Best Bar None accreditation awards, five special awards were up for grabs on the night. The winners of each category are:

Best managed venue

Winner: Portland Hotel

Runners up: Donkey Derby, The Winding Wheel Theatre

Best tenanted venue

Winner: Rose & Crown

Runners up: Derby Tup, Chesterfield Arms

Best independent venue:

Winner: Einstein’s

Runner up: Association, Chandlers

People’s Choice award (as voted by members of the public ):

Winner: Chandlers

Overall winner

Winner: Chesterfield Football Club

Runner up: Einsteins, Rose & Crown

The Best Bar None scheme, supported by the Home Office and drinks industry, was initially launched in the town in 2024 by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary with the aim of reducing alcohol-related crime and providing a safer night out for everyone.

The scheme is designed to build positive relationships between the licensed trade, police and local authorities and also aims to champion improvements in the way venues are managed and encourage best practice to be shared.

Since its launch, Chesterfield Borough Council has expanded the scheme and now invites all licensed premises from all across the borough to register for Best Bar None accreditation.

Those that apply will be assessed against a set of criteria, and successful businesses are invited to the annual awards ceremony to celebrate the achievement of local premises.

More information on the scheme can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield is a very safe place to live, socialise and visit, and while alcohol-related crime and disorder can occasionally arise – as it does in towns and cities across the country – we are committed to ensuring that Chesterfield remains safe, welcoming and fun for everyone, and the Best Bar None scheme is helping us to do just that.

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, pubs and clubs across the town, and it is positive to see so many of them passing their assessment and picking up the Best Bar None accreditation at the awards ceremony. It was a great night to celebrate the fantastic businesses we have on offer across our borough, and we will continue to highlight the work they are doing to ensure we have an attractive nightlife and to keep our town safe for all.”

Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added: “Chesterfield boasts a fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a wonderful place to enjoy an evening out, and we want to make sure everyone feels safe when out and about.

“We are pleased to see so many local businesses coming together and picking up their Best Bar None accreditation again-it does show how serious we all are to making sure everyone can enjoy themselves safely on a night out.”

Other licensed businesses from across the borough are also being encouraged to sign up for the Best Bar None scheme. They can find out more and sign up by contacting the council’s licensing team via email: glenn.holden@chesterfield.gov.uk or by calling 01246 345230.

Check out ideas for where to eat and drink in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure

Family business expands at Chesterfield Market Hall

A family business is expanding into a larger unit in the town’s historic Market Hall, marking a new chapter in its growth.

Cosmetic Company Outlet, founded in 2010 as an online retailer, opened its first physical shop in Chesterfield’s Market Hall in December 2024. The business, now run by Dominic Kerry, has built a loyal customer base by offering top-brand cosmetics at discounted prices. After a successful first year, the business is now moving to a larger unit on the outside of the Market Hall, opposite the Old Post Office and next to Magnolia Barbers.

Dominic Kerry said: “Opening in the Market Hall had been on my mind for a while, and we finally took the leap at the end of 2024. The challenge was always whether we could keep our competitive online prices while covering the costs of a physical shop. Thankfully, the people of Chesterfield have really supported us. They’ve shown that they value local, family-run businesses.”

The new shop is three times the size of the original unit. As the business has grown, so has its product range, creating a need for more space. Customers have travelled from across the region, often drawn by word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues

Inside Cosmetic Company Outlet

Dominic explained. “We’ve had people coming in every week because someone they know told them about us. That kind of support is priceless.”

Support from the local community and fellow traders has played a key role in the business’s success. Dominic also praised the Market Hall management team for their ongoing help and encouragement.

“The Market Hall team have been brilliant. They’ve supported us every step of the way, and we’re excited to welcome both new and returning customers to our new space.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy at Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is always a pleasure to welcome businesses into the Market Hall and to see them grow. With the works planned through our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, a strong future lies ahead for the Market Hall and the Town Centre. Businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet are helping to shape that future and bring new energy to our town centre.”

Chesterfield’s location, community spirit, and ongoing investment in the town centre have all contributed to the business’s growth. For Dominic, the decision to grow in Chesterfield was a natural one.

“We’re a Chesterfield family through and through. Our ancestors have traded in the town for generations in everything from confectionery to printing. The regeneration of the Market Square feels like a turning point for the town’s future.”

Dominic hopes to contribute to the town’s vibrancy by offering a personal, independent alternative to big chain stores.

“We want to give people a reason to shop local. Independent traders like us can offer the kind of personal service that people say they miss. If we can help keep people shopping in Chesterfield, then we’re doing our bit for the town.”

Dominic Staniforth, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “Chesterfield is a town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better, a place to live, work, invest and visit. It’s fantastic to see businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet growing and contributing to the vibrancy of our town centre.”

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield.

Discover more about commercial property in Chesterfield Town Centre 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Property and Construction

Wilding Chesterfield project puts nature at the heart of neighbourhoods

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s Wilding Chesterfield project has received £245,000 in support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.  The project will aid nature’s recovery in urban spaces and make it a priority for the people who live there.

With urban wildlife under increasing pressure, the Wilding Chesterfield pilot project aims to turn the town’s streets into homes for the species that were once thriving there, such as hedgehogs, bats, swifts, and the Big Five pollinators: flies, wasps, bees, butterflies and moths.

Thanks to National Lottery players, the project will focus on identifying the state of urban wildlife, restoring existing species and their habitats, and growing resilient populations, through community-led action across the town.

Wilding Chesterfield will offer a vibrant programme of community events and workshops, empowering residents with knowledge and tools to create wildlife-friendly neighbourhoods.

From creating hedgehog highways so they can move safely through gardens and installing swift boxes to replace dwindling nesting sites, to providing bat boxes to support these vital nocturnal pollinators and recommending pollinator-friendly plants for gardens and shared green spaces, Chesterfield is about to get wilder.

To support communities with the delivery of the two-year project, the Trust will be working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council, and it has recruited a dedicated Urban Rewilding Programme Officer to focus on habitat creation and monitoring, and a Wilder Connections Officer to support action at the community level.

Katherine Clarke Strategic Lead for Urban Rewilding at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust said:  “Through community-led action, we’re creating space for nature in the town’s streets, supporting the recovery of species, while also helping people reconnect with wildlife where they live. We can’t wait to start working towards a greener, more resilient Chesterfield where both people and nature can thrive together.”

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, added:  “We’re proud to work with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and our community to help make nature a priority in our borough. The Wilding Chesterfield project complements the work we are delivering through our management of grassland, wildflower meadows, tree planting and other initiatives that aim to create spaces for nature to thrive.  “This project is really exciting because it aims to help local people connect with nature and understand how they can help wildlife to thrive. This will foster a new generation of stewards that will help ensure our borough is a welcoming place for nature for decades to come.”

Discover more about Wilding Chesterfield at https://www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/wilding-chesterfield

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