Author: Dom Stevens

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

£700,000 of grant funding to build a solar farm in Derbyshire

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has secured £700,000 of grant funding from the Government’s Mayoral Renewables Fund to build a solar farm in Derbyshire.

The Mayoral Renewables Fund from the recently formed Great British Energy aims to support Combined Authorities across England to deliver priority renewable energy generation projects on their own estates.

Derbyshire County Council will use the £700,000 to develop a 2MW solar farm on reclaimed land that was part of the Williamthorpe Colliery, a former coal mine near Chesterfield. The installation of the project is due to be completed in Spring 2026.

The site will generate around 1.9 million kWh per year which is enough energy to power over 700 homes annually, based on average UK households. The energy generated on the solar farm will be exported to the grid and will reduce Derbyshire County Council’s energy bills by more than £100,000 per year. Over the project lifetime, it is expected to save the council more than £3m.

Renewable energy generation is also a key part of the East Midlands’ approach to tackling climate change, and the projects will see the region’s carbon footprint reduced by an estimated 8,550 tonnes of CO2 over 30 years.

The project will also support the work of the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s Nature and Biodiversity Taskforce by including improvements to nature on the site. Wildflower and tree planting will create vital habitats for pollinators and wildlife to thrive.

The solar farm at the former Williamthorpe Colliery marks another clean energy regeneration project in the East Midlands region. From the former coal-fired power station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar to the STEP Fusion plant at West Burton, areas that were historically linked to coal mining are being transformed across the region with clean energy projects, providing more jobs and energy security for local people.

Speaking about the funding secured for the region, the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “I’m spearheading a green industrial revolution here in the East Midlands to protect future generations from the impacts of the climate crisis. Last year, we said farewell to the use of coal in our region, and we’re now transitioning to become a clean energy powerhouse, with solar being an important part of the energy mix.

“Our approach to tackling the climate crisis presents a huge opportunity for our communities. We’re creating a region that is more resilient and sustainable, which will support everyone who lives in the region to thrive. “

“As Mayor, I’m putting national net zero policy into practice on a local level by securing this funding – and this is just the start of our productive relationship with Great British Energy.”

Posted in Development, Home, Property and Construction

Business support programme powers growth for Chesterfield businesses

Nearly 5,000 businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicester have received expert support through the Accelerator Programme.  The initiative is helping Chesterfield firms grow, innovate, and create jobs.

Delivered by East Midlands Chamber and backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Accelerator Programme launched in 2023 and has already supported 4,790 businesses across the region. The programme offers tailored advice, access to funding, sustainability support, and specialist services for exporters and high-growth firms.

Thanks to its success, the programme has been extended until March 2026.

In Chesterfield, the programme has made a tangible difference to local businesses, helping them scale up, adapt, and thrive in a changing economy.  Businesses have already benefited from the programme, include:

  • Black Swan Cyber Security received expert advice and funding to develop a new cybersecurity product, helping the business grow its client base and expand its service offer.
  • Images Costumes, a theatrical costume supplier, used Accelerator support to invest in digital marketing and streamline operations, boosting visibility and efficiency.
  • Ellenvale Interiors, a bespoke furniture and interiors business, accessed one-to-one adviser support and workshops to refine its growth strategy and reach new markets.
  • Finneys Wood Finishes received help to explore decarbonisation options and improve sustainability, reducing costs and future-proofing the business.

Across the region, the Accelerator Programme has:

  • Created 143 new businesses
  • Supported the creation of 598 jobs
  • Safeguarded 505 existing roles
  • Helped 401 businesses introduce new products, technologies or processes

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber, said: “The tailored business support and workshops the Chamber delivered under the Accelerator Programme have made a very tangible impact in the region when it comes to business expansion, job creation and safeguarding, and the introduction of new products, technologies and processes.
With time limited to get registered, I’d urge businesses interested in exploring the wide range of support available to take that first step and get in touch.”

The Accelerator Programme offers the following support:

  • One-to-one support from expert business advisers
  • Access to grant funding (where available)
  • Growth vouchers for new technology
  • Decarbonisation and sustainability support
  • Export and high-growth business services
  • Workshops and webinars on key business topics

Businesses can register now to access support before the programme ends in March 2026. A full schedule of upcoming training events is available at:
https://bit.ly/AcceleratorTrainingEv

A wide range of business and skills support is available for businesses in Chesterfield.  Discover more at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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

Celebrating local business success

Our latest round-up highlights achievements from Chesterfield Champions, highlighting local business success. From commercial property growth and legal sector expansion to hospitality innovation and sustainable tech support, these stories showcase the diversity of our local economy.

Investment opportunities flourish across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

FHP Property Consultants is driving commercial growth in Chesterfield and beyond, with a range of opportunities across the industrial, office, and retail sectors.

In Chesterfield, FHP is working with East Midlands Chamber to market two modern office suites. With excellent transport links to the A61 and M1, Suite Stewart (536 sq ft) and Suite Westlake (850 sq ft) offer flexible, high-quality workspace ideal for growing businesses.

In Clay Cross, FHP supported the successful delivery of Wingfield View Business Park, which brought 60,000 sq ft of industrial space to market. Building on this momentum, Roe Developments is now delivering Egstow View Business Park, offering 13 trade counter and warehouse units, with three already under offer.

FHP is also working with Atkinson Construction on a new mixed-use development in Grassmoor. Phase one will deliver four high-spec office buildings, while phase two will introduce small to medium-sized industrial units built to the same high standard.

The Baileys Square regeneration project is also transforming Clay Cross town centre into a vibrant leisure and retail destination. It features new pedestrianised areas and units ranging from 500 to 4,809 sq ft.

Banner Jones expands private client team

Banner Jones Solicitors has strengthened its Private Client division with six new appointments across its Chesterfield and Sheffield offices, reflecting growing demand for services such as Wills, Probate, and Estate Planning.

In Chesterfield, Tina Fisher and Lucy Vinson bring extensive experience in estate administration and Will writing. In Sheffield, new team members include Solicitor Sophie Marshall, Probate Executive Jake Coy, Will Writer Aimee Gill, and Paralegal Savannah.

Kathryn Wheeldon, Head of the Private Client Team, said: “Each new team member brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to client care. This marks a significant step forward in our growth.”

BSP Consulting promotes senior leaders

BSP Consulting, one of the East Midlands’ largest independent civil and structural engineering firms, has announced two senior promotions. Jo Posnett returns as Associate Director, while Oliver McElroy has been promoted to Associate.

Jo will help lead the firm’s restructured transport planning team. Meanwhile, Oliver continues to play a key role in the rollout of Civils3D software across the business.

Carl Hilton, Managing Director, said: “These appointments reflect our ongoing investment in people and the future of the business.”

Peak Edge Hotel innovates with wine and golf experiences

Peak Edge Hotel, a 4-star boutique retreat near Chesterfield, has unveiled a walk-in wine cellar designed by luxury specialists Sorrells. Guests can explore rare and premium wines, including a £3,050 bottle of 2006 Petrus.  They will also enjoy this as part of an immersive dining experience at the award-winning Red Lion Restaurant.

In collaboration with fellow Chesterfield Champion Stanedge Golf Club, the hotel has also launched a Stay and Golf package. It includes a round of golf, a stay in a Superior Room, and a discount on the à la carte menu.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director, said: “We’re committed to delivering unforgettable experiences, from fine dining to golf breaks, all rooted in local quality and hospitality.”

CRUSH supports sustainable Tech Start-Ups

Chesterfield creative agency CRUSH is supporting the next generation of green entrepreneurs through the Ignite with Ebico 2 programme. Launched by the Ebico Trust, the initiative offers fully-funded branding, design, and website development to sustainable tech start-ups.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder of CRUSH, said: “We’re proud to support sustainable innovation and help start-ups connect with their audiences through strong, purposeful branding.”

Get Involved: Become a Chesterfield Champion

The Chesterfield Champions network brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals who are passionate about promoting Chesterfield.  Find out how to become a Chesterfield Champion

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

Made in Chesterfield Festival builds future talent pipeline for economic growth

Chesterfield businesses are once again leading the way in shaping the town’s future workforce as the Made in Chesterfield Festival returns this autumn. Running from 25 September to the end of October, the festival introduces students to careers in the manufacturing and property sectors through hands-on experiences.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership, in association with Chesterfield College, the festival provides a direct link between employers and future talent. At the same time, it helps schools meet the updated Gatsby Benchmark requirements for careers education.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Board Member at Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Modern manufacturing is full of innovation and opportunity, right here in Chesterfield. But do our young people know about the businesses and careers open to them locally? Made in Chesterfield helps our young people see what’s possible. It also shows employers like us at MSE the future talent that is available.”

This year, the festival introduces the Innovation Challenge, a new programme that pairs schools with local employers to solve real-world business problems. Students will visit a workplace, collaborate in teams, and present their solutions at a showcase event. As a result, they will gain valuable insight into how classroom learning connects to real careers.

James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Ltd, added:

“The Innovation Challenge is an exciting way to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. It connects the classroom to real careers and gives students a chance to apply their learning in a practical setting.”

Claire Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership, said:

“Made in Chesterfield is tailor-made for the Gatsby Benchmarks and takes away pressure from schools to organise visits themselves. The Made in Chesterfield Festival provides meaningful encounters to support businesses to inspire and find their employees of the future.”

Andrew Knowles, Head Teacher at Tupton Hall School, said:

“As a headteacher, I see firsthand how powerful it is when students engage with real employers. The Made in Chesterfield Festival brings careers education to life and helps our pupils see a future for themselves in the local economy.”

Claire Godfrey, Deputy Principal at Chesterfield College Group, the headline sponsor of the festival, added:

“We see this as a vital opportunity to connect education with industry. We support our local employers with the future skills and talent they need to flourish here, giving our students the knowledge and ability to enjoy successful careers in the area. This fantastic festival engages students at an earlier age, providing a real-world insight and enthusiasm about the fantastic career paths that are available in and around Chesterfield, so we’re delighted to be headline sponsor once again.”

Since its launch in 2014, the festival has reached more than 3,500 students. It continues to challenge outdated perceptions of careers in manufacturing and the property sector. Moreover, it strengthens the relationship between education and industry across North Derbyshire.

Businesses supporting include United Cast Bar Ltd, Weightron Bilanchai, MSE Hiller, Penny Hydrolics, Fast Signs, Aztec Oils, and Superior Wellness.

Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership deliver Made in Chesterfield in association with Chesterfield College. Chesterfield Borough Council, EMCCA Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and headteachers from schools across the region support the delivery of the Festival.

The Innovation Challenge event is organised in partnership with CBE+, Workwise, and North East Derbyshire District Council.

To find out more about taking part in the festival, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/made-in-chesterfield

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

Chesterfield’s green spaces shine with nine Green Flag Awards

Chesterfield continues to prove its commitment to quality of life, community wellbeing, and environmental excellence, securing nine Green Flag Awards. These awards reinforce Chesterfield’s reputation as a family-friendly place to live in Derbyshire.

The prestigious Green Flag Awards, managed by Keep Britain Tidy, are the international benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces. They recognise locations that are safe, welcoming, well-maintained, and environmentally sustainable. For families seeking fresh air, nature, and safe outdoor spaces, Chesterfield continues to deliver.

This year marks a record for Chesterfield. Stand Road Park received its first-ever Green Flag led by Chesterfield Borough Council and the Friends of Stand Road Park. Enhancements included reinstated footpaths, a restored wetland area, new planters, and bug hotels to support biodiversity. Looking ahead, the council plans to extend woodland trails, plant wildflowers, and continue its wetland restoration efforts.

Seven other parks retained their Green Flag status, including Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, King George V Park in Staveley, Eastwood Park in Hasland, and Monkey Park. These spaces offer families and residents a wide range of outdoor experiences, from peaceful walks to active play.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “We have some incredible parks and green spaces across our borough, and it is fantastic that we have been awarded a record number of Green Flags this year. Providing high-quality green spaces is key to supporting nature in our borough, but also helps promote health and wellbeing and contributes to ensuring that Chesterfield is a great place to live and raise a family.”

Adding to the borough’s success, Hollingwood Hub, home of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, celebrates its ninth consecutive Green Flag Award. The site features a beautiful garden, visitor centre, café, and access to canal-side activities, including boat trips and paddlesports. It’s a popular destination for families and visitors alike.

Jim Bower, who leads the Trust’s Gardening Team, said: “We are delighted to be awarded a Green Flag again. We get lots of appreciative comments from many members of the public.”

The Guardian includes Chesterfield in an article as one of the happiest places to live. Eurocell, in their 2024 study, highlight Chesterfield as the UK’s best town for access to green spaces. Its access to nature, strong community spirit, and investment in public spaces all contribute to this reputation. For families, the town offers a safe environment with numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

The council’s Parks, Open Spaces and Play Delivery Plan outlines over £1 million in investment to enhance spaces. This long-term vision ensures that residents and visitors of all ages can enjoy safe, inclusive, and inspiring outdoor spaces.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “Quality parks and green spaces like the Hub make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. Crucially, Hollingwood Hub is a vital green space for communities in Chesterfield to enjoy nature, and it is a free and safe space for families to socialise.”

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ryan Wilkes, said: “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!”

Whether it’s a peaceful walk through Queen’s Park, a family day out at Poolsbrook, or a canal-side coffee at Hollingwood Hub, Chesterfield’s green spaces are more than just parks; they’re places where people connect, relax, and thrive.

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