About Chesterfield

Why homebuyers are choosing Chesterfield for value, connectivity, and community

20th January 2026

A new study highlights that people are deciding to settle within Chesterfield, taking advantage of the convenience of commuting to Sheffield while benefiting from the area’s strengths as a place to live.

The study by sellhousefast.uk assessed commuter towns for England’s five biggest cities (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Sheffield), and ranked them on livability and commuting factors.

Chesterfield came in at the top for commuting to Sheffield, and fourth overall, with an approximate commute time of 40.5 minutes by car and 12 minutes by train, and an average house price of £212,576, as well as, 64% of schools rated good/outstanding within five miles. The study also calculated the crime risk score of 626/1,000 giving Chesterfield an overall score of 6.29.

Neighbouring town Dronfield came in fifth with a commute to Sheffield of 29 minutes by car and 10 minutes by train, with average house prices of £273,863

Bolsover, just 15 minutes away from our town centre, placed seventh in Up-and-coming areas with the most significant house price increases, helping buyers identify up-and-coming areas before prices peak, with an 86.1% increase in house prices since 2015.

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ryan Wilkes said:

“What really sets Chesterfield apart is the quality of life it offers. Residents benefit from excellent connectivity to major cities while enjoying lower housing costs, good schools, and a strong sense of community. It’s no surprise that more people are recognising Chesterfield as a place to build a long-term future.”

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live, once again ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

Also in 2025, Chesterfield was named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

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

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

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

Locals’ celebrate Queen’s Park Sports Centre tenth birthday

16th January 2026

Over 900 of our local residents and visitors attended Queen’s Park Sports Centre’s open day on January 11th to celebrate the facility’s tenth birthday.
Over the last ten years, the sports centre has grown to be a community hub for many different groups, organisations and individuals to use, learn and enjoy.

As part of the open day, the centre encouraged local people to come along and join them to take part in a range of free or low-cost activities that were suitable for everyone.
The open day included a range of activities, from fitness classes and swimming lessons to opportunities to explore the gym facilities, participate in racket sports, try netball, experience pre-school gymnastics, and participate in an on-site treasure hunt where participants could find prizes hidden around the centre.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“Marking 10 years of Queen’s Park Sports Centre is fantastic. The centre is an inclusive space that provides activities that bring communities together, from activities for children to specific sessions such as Outswimming Cancer. There is something on offer there for everyone.

“Getting active has so many benefits both physically and mentally, so I encourage anyone who hasn’t visited the centre to find out how they could join what has become a community.”

People can find out more about Queen’s Park Sports Centre here: www.chesterfield.gov.uk and learn about New Year membership offers by following this link: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Progression made on Chesterfield Canal as part of Staveley Town Deal

15th January 2026

Significant progress continues on the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal at Staveley, one of the projects within the Staveley Town Deal.

The restoration will reconnect key sections, protect historic features, and create new opportunities for leisure, tourism, and economic growth. The Chesterfield Canal Trust is leading the main phase of restoration works, supported by £5.8 million of the Staveley Town Deal.

Contractor O’Brien Construction Ltd is delivering the main phase of works on the Chesterfield Canal, which includes:

- Construction of the new Keith Ayling Lock
- Installation of a water pumping system designed to allow fish and eel passage,
- Restoration of Bellhouse Basin, including its historic narrows,
- Reinstatement of the canal through the Hartington Railway Bridge abutments
- Restoration of the canal towpath through the Doe Lea Valley and along the former Norbriggs Arm to the A619 at Mastin Moor
- Upgrading footpaths between Bent Lane and Bellhouse Lane
- Installation of new benches, interpretation panels and extensive landscaping

By restoring navigability and improving surrounding infrastructure, the project will help to encourage an increase in visitor numbers to Staveley, supporting local businesses and tourism as well as enhancing public spaces, including footpaths, bridges and green areas, having an overall impact on improving the quality of life for residents through better access, recreation and employment opportunities.

Over the past months, visible progress has been made on the site. Towards the end of November, the lock excavation was completed, followed by extensive rebar installation and concrete pours throughout early December.

By mid-December, the base slab for the Keith Ayling Lock had been completed, clearly showing how the restored basin will be raised to its final level. Historic stonework from Bellhouse Basin was carefully removed, labelled and stored, ready to be reinstated as part of the restoration.

Meanwhile, Severn Trent Water has been working alongside the project to lower a major 500mm water main beneath the restored canal at Bellhouse Basin, with this element expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The current completion date for the main works is mid-July, bringing Staveley another step closer to seeing the Chesterfield Canal fully restored through this key section.

The Staveley canal restoration is a powerful example of how the Staveley Town Deal is investing in heritage, infrastructure and community wellbeing, creating a destination that will support economic growth while celebrating the area’s industrial past.

For more information and to keep up to date with developments in and around our town, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

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

Chesterfield to benefit from £121m regional road maintenance plan

14th January 2026

Chesterfield is set to benefit from part of a £121m investment proposed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) for road maintenance and repairs across the region. The funding will cover the region’s four highway authorities in the 2026/27 financial year.

The funding, to be considered by the authority’s transport committee this week, aims to make roads safer, reduce congestion and tackle years of wear and tear caused by previous underinvestment in the region.

The proposed investment would be used for a range of work, from repairing worn surfaces and potholes, to maintenance preventing damage before it happens. Some projects will combine road repairs with improvements to pavements, drainage, and public spaces, delivering better results for local communities.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This proposed investment shows our commitment to keeping roads safe and reliable for everyone in the East Midlands. By acting now, we can tackle years of wear and tear, support local communities, and make journeys smoother for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. This decisive action shows we are ready to deliver in 2026.”

Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability at Derby City Council, said: “This proposed additional investment is excellent news for our region.”

Members of the authority’s Transport and Digital Committee will also consider an alternative option this week. This would invest a total of £79.4m in road maintenance for the 2026/27 financial year.

Additionally, more than £13.5m is proposed for local neighbourhood projects. These smaller-scale schemes improve road safety, access, and local travel, directly benefiting people’s daily lives in towns and villages across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

The proposed funding is subject to agreement at the Transport Committee meeting, before going before the EMCCA board for final approval in March.

The upcoming Transport Committee will also discuss the progress of the existing £184m transport investment programme. It has already brought safer roads, better bus services, new cycle routes, and improved travel connections across the region.

Mayor Claire said: “This investment is a significant step forward for our region. By focusing on road maintenance, safer streets, and better transport connections, we are delivering tangible benefits for our communities now, while laying the foundation for long-term improvements across the next seven years.”

Key projects which are underway:

Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route (Derbyshire): £2.5m invested in development of the scheme, supporting new housing and regeneration;
Merrill Way/A514/Boulton Lane Junction (Derby): Work has begun on £3m junction improvements;
A614/A6097 Major Road Network (Nottinghamshire): More than £7m contribution to tackle congestion and support new housing, with construction planned for summer 2026.

The programme is on track to spend £151m this year, a significant increase compared with 2024/25, showing that EMCCA and the constituent authorities are making real progress on projects that matter to communities and delivering on a larger scale than previously.

This year’s programme is the first of a seven-year investment plan, giving the region certainty to deliver bigger and longer-lasting improvements.

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

Derbyshire property group to deliver new trade and industrial scheme

13th January 2026

Litton Property Group, Derbyshire based development and investment company, has completed the purchase of a 2.18-acre site at Markham Vale from HBD to deliver a scheme of industrial and trade units.

With current schemes in Derbyshire, South Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Oxfordshire and Bedfordshire, the property company has more than 25 years’ experience in commercial and mixed use development, delivering property solutions to often complex sites, and works in partnership with land owners, occupiers and its supply chain.

Commercial property agents Knight Frank and Curson Sowerby Partners (CSP) have been appointed to market and secure new occupiers for the new development Markham Vale Trade Park, which will offer seven units from 3,817 to 5,745 sq ft. The scheme offers flexibility and units can be combined to accommodate larger occupier requirements of up to 17,000 sq ft.

It will be developed speculatively with completion expected by Quarter 4 later on in the year, and is expected to create over 100 jobs.

Based on the ongoing development of Markham Vale, the new trade park will offer a roadside position close to occupiers, including CHH Connex, Gould Alloys, Subway, Grangers, McDonald’s, KFC, Greggs, SPAR, Shell and Starbucks.

Mark Twelves, Managing Director at Litton Property Group, said: “Markham Vale Trade Park will deliver a new benchmark for trade counter, warehouse and light industrial accommodation in Derbyshire.

“The development is tailored to offer flexibility to accommodate the operational needs of occupiers from a range of sectors. The units have been designed to a high specification with generous parking, efficient circulation space, and excellent visibility within the thriving Markham Vale estate.

“Our purchase and the development of the site sends out a strong signal that Derbyshire is a place that helps businesses to establish, grow and thrive. With a growing workforce, new housing nearby, and strong regional links, it is perfectly positioned for ambitious businesses.”

The specification of the units include high-quality design with glazed facades, 6.5m Eaves Height to allow for internal fit out and mezzanine first floors where required and generous parking with EV chargers. The development will be BREEAM rating of Very Good and have an EPC rating of A.

Rebecca Schofield, partner at Knight Frank, said: “The development will be attractive to both trade occupiers and traditional industrial occupiers wanting to benefit from the scheme’s prominence and accessibility to the surrounding demographic.

“It will provide much-needed Grade A space in a prime business location, with access to a strong labour market, as well as providing a supplies hub to trades operating in the area.

George Haworth from CSP added: “The seven units offer flexibility and we are already seeing good interest from trade and local occupiers. We expect to announce the first occupiers shortly.”

The wider Markham Vale development totals 200-acre industrial and logistics scheme delivered in a joint venture between HBD and Derbyshire County Council. The award-winning development remains one of the region’s best-located industrial and logistics schemes, sitting at the heart of the UK motorway network and providing direct access to the M1 via a dedicated junction, J29a. Chesterfield town centre sits five miles away; Mansfield is 10 miles, Sheffield 21 miles, with easy access to East Midlands Airport.

Research has shown that 119,000 vehicles pass the site a day; 4,080 new homes are within 10 miles of the site; 270,000 people live within 20 minutes; a population of 5.8 million people are within 60 minutes of the site; with 27.7 per cent of the local workforce in construction and manufacturing.

For more information on Markham Vale and the latest developments happening in and around chesterfield visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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

Five investment opportunities in Chesterfield

9th January 2026

Chesterfield is entering a major phase of regeneration, with a £2 billion investment pipeline set to deliver 7,800 jobs, 3,900 homes, and an estimated £473 million boost to the local economy.

At a recent Investment Round Table, Chesterfield Champions highlighted five projects they believe will have the biggest impact on the town’s future. Here’s what to watch:

Spire Neighbourhood

An ambitious regeneration project revitalising areas east of the town centre with new housing, green spaces, and improved connectivity.

“The Spire neighbourhood will bring forward a cultural quarter alongside new homes, creating a new attractive place to visit and live within our town centre ”, Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

Development partners are being sought to deliver high-quality housing and living spaces. Around 500 new homes per year are planned across the borough over the next 15 years.

Discover more about town centre living in Chesterfield

East Midlands Investment Zone

Chesterfield is part of this strategic initiative led by the East Midlands Combined County Authority, offering tax incentives and infrastructure investment to accelerate growth. The Hartington Staveley site covers over 100 hectares of brownfield land near the M1 corridor and will support advanced manufacturing and green industries.

“Being part of the East Midlands Investment Zone opens up significant opportunities for businesses and developers.” – Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

Learn more about the East Midlands Investment Zone
Explore more about Hartington Business Park
Discover more about Hartington Commerce Park

Markham Vale

One of the region’s most successful industrial and logistics hubs, Markham Vale continues to attract national and international businesses thanks to its prime location near the M1.

“Markham Vale is a key driver for employment and investment in the area.” – Tom Wragg, FHP Property Consultants

New developments include:

ARK: 90,200 sq ft across 3 units
Nova: Two large industrial units totaling 730,000 sq ft, creating over 700 jobs

Discover opportunities at Markham Vale

Chesterfield Town Centre

Plans to improve the town centre and surrounding areas include upgrades to the Market Place, Stephenson Memorial Hall, and investment opportunities at Chesterfield Waterside, Spire Neighbourhood, and the Station Masterplan Area.

“The Waterside development creates a positive first impression when you arrive by train; it shows things are happening.” – Catherine Wenborne, Vines Legal

These projects aim to create a welcoming environment with better public spaces, modern offices, hotels, leisure and retail opportunities, new homes, and improved transport connections.

Discover more about Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield
Learn more about Chesterfield Waterside
Read about the Station Master Plan

Peak Resort

A world-class leisure destination on the edge of the Peak District, designed to attract visitors and boost Chesterfield’s tourism economy.

“Peak Resort will be a fantastic addition for Chesterfield. It will keep people spending locally rather than just passing through to the Peak District.” – Ruth Whiteman, Peak Project Solutions

The construction platforms for the sites have been developed in 2025, with the first phase scheduled to open by 2028.

Discover more about Peak.

Invest in Chesterfield

Explore commercial property opportunities and learn more about Chesterfield’s regeneration projects at: chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search

For a full overview of developments in Chesterfield and Staveley, visit: chesterfield.co.uk/developments

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

Chesterfield businesses back ambitious plans for town centre transformation

8th January 2026

Backed by a £2 billion investment pipeline, Chesterfield is redefining its future with bold town centre transformation plans to reshape the town’s economy, communities, and identity. Local leaders say optimism is high as Chesterfield looks to 2026 and beyond.

Town centre transformation

Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambition goes beyond economic growth. Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, outlined plans for the town centre. She said:

“We’re creating a cultural quarter, more town centre living, and imaginative uses for spaces like the Pavements Shopping Centre. Chesterfield will be a place where people continue to want to spend time and feel proud to call home.”

Major reinvestment is already underway as landmark retail sites find new purpose including:

Former Wilko store: Purchased by J.B.S.L. Holdings, with plans for a 70-unit aparthotel, two retail units, a coffee shop, gym, and business centre
Historic Eyres furniture store: Set to become a mixed-use development featuring 20 apartments and 10 commercial units, creating a vibrant hub for residents and businesses
Former Marks & Spencer building: Acquired by ALB Group, introducing new retail units and upper-floor residential space (subject to planning approval).

Tom Wragg, Associate Director at FHP Property Consultants, which advises on retail and leisure property across Derbyshire, sees this as a sign of progress.

He said: “The retail market is evolving. Investors like ALB are bringing creativity to repurpose spaces; that’s a huge opportunity for Chesterfield. The former Marks and Spencer site is a prime example of where we can introduce new uses that keep people in town longer.”

Skills and innovation driving growth

As Chesterfield’s town centre evolves, the demand for skilled workers and innovative approaches grows. The Construction Skills Hub in Staveley and the new Advanced and Life Sciences Centre at Chesterfield College are equipping young people with expertise in construction techniques, skills that will help bring town centre projects to life. Ruth Whiteman, owner of Peak Project Solutions, explained:

“We’re focusing on modern construction methods and innovation. It’s about preparing young people for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

Business confidence is growing alongside these regeneration and skills initiatives. As new developments reshape the town centre and local training hubs prepare a skilled workforce, firms see Chesterfield as a place to invest and grow.

Peter Lawrence, Senior Business Advisor at East Midlands Chamber, which supports hundreds of local firms, believes the narrative is shifting. He said:

“Chesterfield isn’t just a gateway anymore, it’s a place to relocate, grow and stay.”

A thriving future

The coming year will see continued investment across Chesterfield, with projects creating new jobs, improving public spaces, and supporting local businesses. These developments are expected to enhance the town’s infrastructure and provide additional opportunities for residents and visitors.

Discover more about developments taking place at chesterfield.co.uk/developments.

Image by @steelcitydronepilot

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

Local community invited to celebrate 10 years of Queen’s Park Sports Centre

6th January 2026

Ten years ago, Queen’s Park Sports Centre opened its doors to our residents for the first time and has since grown to be a community hub for many different groups, organisations and individuals to use and enjoy.

This Sunday, Queen’s Park Sports Centre will be hosting an open day and is encouraging local people to come along and join them in celebrating ten years of the sports centre so far.

The open day will include a range of activities for all of the family from fitness classes to swimming lessons and vouchers will be hidden for customers to find, there’s loads to get involved in.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s a genuine pleasure to be part of celebrating this ten-year milestone of Queens Park Sports Centre serving our communities. The vision we had for an inclusive space, providing activities to get people moving and bringing them together has been more than realised.

“I encourage anyone, especially those who may not previously have taken part in exercise to come along to the open day and take advantage of the activities on offer on the 11 January.

“Getting active has so many benefits both physically and mentally and it’s never too late or early!”

Visitors can enjoy a mix of free fitness classes, family-friendly activities, and sports tasters throughout the day. Highlights include:

Fitness classes such as indoor cycling, yoga, Body Pump, and fun sessions like Clubbercise
Racket sports with drop-in badminton and pickleball games, plus a family netball taster
Children’s activities, including pre-school tumblers and gymnastics-style play
Swimming tasters for adults and children, ending with a family splash session with floats and toys

There’s something for all ages and abilities, making it a great day to try new activities and get active together.

All of the individual sessions will be bookable in advance via reception in person, or by calling 01246 345 555. Fitness classes, racket sports and netball are available to book online

It is advised that sessions are booked ahead of your visit to the open day to avoid disappointment. Many of the sessions will be free of charge or low cost to mark the open day.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Looking ahead to the future of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

1st January 2026

As 2025 comes to a close, we reflect on another year of progress and achievements while looking ahead to the future of our town and what it will achieve.

New industrial units have been developed at Markham Vale, and works continue to prepare the East Midlands Investment Zone site at Staveley for the first phase of development.

With a £2 billion regeneration pipeline supporting new homes, town centre regeneration, green industries, advanced manufacturing, retail, leisure and tourism, it is an exciting time for the borough of Chesterfield.

These developments have the potential to create 7,800 potential jobs and bring an additional £473 million in GVA (Gross Value Added) to the local economy.

We spoke to our network of Chesterfield Champions who have shared what they would like to see for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire in the future.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Property Development Director at Devonshire Property Group

“For the future of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, it would be great to see a prosperous ambitious place that becomes firmly established as a centre for advanced manufacturing, being part of and helping to drive an improved economy for the wider East Midlands. In tandem with this, I’d like to see the regeneration of the public realm in Chesterfield and Staveley town centres, to ensure that they are the vibrant centres of their respective communities.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield

“Chesterfield’s chapter of transformation and growth will continue, as more major regeneration projects reach completion and keep shaping our borough into one of the best places to live, work, and invest. Looking ahead to 2030, I want to see Chesterfield fully reaping the rewards of these efforts: residents empowered with the skills and opportunities to advance their careers, a town that draws visitors to experience our vibrant culture and events while supporting local businesses, and a thriving economy driven by new enterprises choosing Chesterfield as their home.

To achieve this, we need to keep working together. We must share our story with potential investors and residents, and we all have a role to play. By championing Chesterfield online and in everyday conversations with friends and family, we can bolster our borough’s success.”

Julie Richards OBE, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Principal of Chesterfield College

“I would love to see a refreshed, vibrant town centre, like the exciting transformation already underway in Chesterfield’s Market Place, where people can work, learn, live and enjoy themselves in a safe, inclusive environment.”

Paul Flitter, Founder and Director, New Oak Estates

Considering the future, I was pleased to read about the funding for the Chesterfield to Staveley regeneration route and hope to see similar investment in the A61. Hopefully, our new cycling and walking routes will also help to ease congestion, alongside the town’s new emission free buses.”

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

“I hope Chesterfield continues to be bold and brave with the transformation of the town centre. There have already been several successful projects delivered, such as One Waterside Place and the Northern Enterprise Centre, which have attracted new business to the area and provided much-needed quality office space for growing organisations that want to remain in Chesterfield.”

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder, CRUSH

“I’d love to see the area recognised as a confident, modern place to live, work and invest – known for innovation and quality of life while retaining strong industrial and engineering roots. To achieve this, the town needs sustained investment, collaboration and ambition. Continued regeneration, improved skills pathways and strong education-to-employment links are vital, along with confidently telling the town’s story.”

Laura Jo, Owner, Adorn Jewellers

“The preparations taken now to ensure a bright future for Chesterfield are vital. I see Chesterfield retaining our heritage but keeping pace as a modern town. A mix of town centre living with a vibrant nighttime economy will ensure Chesterfield remains an attractive place to live and work. Our independent businesses are key to this mix, creating jobs and bringing a unique offer to our town.”

Neil Beaumont, Sales Director, Custom Solar

“Looking ahead, Chesterfield Borough Council has ambitious carbon-neutral targets, and we hope to play a key role in helping the town achieve them. Over the next five years, we look forward to continuing our work with local businesses, partners, and the council to create a greener, more sustainable future.”

Heather Hearn-Poole, SEO Manager, FWD Motion

“My vision for Chesterfield in the future is sustainable growth that showcases the beauty on our doorstep. While we need to grow and develop, sustainability must be at the heart of everything we do, to protect the best of the Derbyshire countryside for generations to come.”

Anna Meer, Director, DLP Planning

“Considering the future, I am hoping that our housing stock will increase massively, both in terms of affordable properties and open-market housing. I also believe that diversification of land uses will help Chesterfield become the vibrant place that we need it to be.”

Dawn Brown, Owner, Rose Cottage, DogLand

“I’m looking forward to hundreds more new homes being built near our town centre. With all the transformation underway in the heart of our town – from our theatre and museum restoration to our improved markets – demand for homes will continue to grow. I look forward to welcoming new faces and, of course, taking excellent care of their paw-some pooches.”

Claudia Risorto, Apprentice Solicitor, Banner Jones Solicitors

“I’d love to see more apprenticeships available in Chesterfield. Expanding apprenticeship opportunities would not only benefit young professionals but also strengthen the local economy by keeping skilled talent in the area.”

Katie Snodden, Head of Sales, Bridge Help

“I’d love to see Chesterfield continue to evolve while retaining its strong community feel. More family-friendly and experience-based businesses would bring fresh energy to the high street. Public spaces like Queen’s Park and the big screen at Vicar Lane are great assets too – the more we use them going forward, the better.”

For more information on Chesterfield Champions, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/Chesterfield Champions

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

Aurora train serves Chesterfield as part of landmark East Midlands launch

31st December 2025

A new chapter in rail travel has begun in the East Midlands and South Yorkshire, as the first train from Transport UK and East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) £400 million Aurora fleet carried its inaugural passengers. The service, which stops at Chesterfield, gave local travellers a first glimpse of the step-change in comfort, reliability, and performance that the new Hitachi Rail trains bring to the network.

The maiden Aurora service departed Sheffield at 7am, bound for London, serving Chesterfield along the way and offering passengers their first experience of the upgraded fleet.

The 33 bi-mode trains will make full use of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade, running on electric overhead lines to cut carbon emissions by 66 per cent – meaning quieter and greener journeys for passengers travelling through Chesterfield and beyond.

The Aurora fleet offers 24 per cent more seats and over 19 per cent more legroom in a typical five-carriage formation compared to the Meridian trains it replaced. Once the full fleet of 33 trains is in service, it will deliver a 46 per cent increase in total seating available on the Midland Main Line, benefitting commuters and travellers.

Transport UK’s EMR business worked closely with Derby-based design firm DG DESIGN to adapt a brand-new seat for the Aurora trains. The result combines comfort and support with practical features such as power and USB points, generous legroom, coat hooks, well-sized seat-back tables, and storage space for cabin bags under each seat.

Passengers on the new Aurora trains also experienced improved connectivity thanks to an enhanced Wi-Fi system using multiple SIM cards, along with specially engineered glass to allow mobile signals to pass through more effectively.

Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway, said on the day the train departed:
“Today is truly a landmark moment for rail travel across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. At 7am, the very first train in Transport UK and EMR’s brand-new £400 million Aurora fleet departed Sheffield for London St Pancras – marking the start of a new era for Intercity travel on our network. With more seats, legroom and luggage space, as well as enhanced Wi-Fi, passenger information and the ability to run on electric, these new trains will transform the service we can provide.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire strengthen international tourism in Asia

30th December 2025

Visit Peak District and Derbyshire has highlighted the region’s world-class tourism offerings to leading travel buyers from China, Japan, and South Korea at an international travel trade mission in Chengdu, China.”

The mission, part of VisitBritain’s Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia (DBCNEA) programme, provided a significant opportunity to raise the international profile of the Peak District and Derbyshire. It supports Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s wider objectives to attract high-spending global visitors, extend the tourism season beyond peak months, and deliver long-term benefits to the local visitor economy.

During the event, the team held over 50 one-to-one meetings with tour operators and travel buyers from China, Japan, and South Korea, highlighting the region’s tourism offerings to inspire future itineraries and drive new business.

Additionally, Visit Peak District and Derbyshire delivered educational seminars showcasing local attractions, accommodations, and activity providers. These closely align with emerging Asian travel trends, including high-end, small-group, and immersive experiences.

Derbyshire is attracting growing interest from Chinese visitors, drawn by the area’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Chatsworth, internationally recognised for its role in the 2005 Pride & Prejudice film, remains a major attraction, while the wider Peak District offers ‘soft adventure’ experiences such as hiking and stargazing, appealing to a new generation of nature-inspired travellers.

Both ‘Peak District’ and ‘Chatsworth’ currently feature among the most popular trending searches on RedNote, one of China’s largest social platforms with over 300 million users, highlighting Derbyshire’s strong potential as a must-see UK destination.

Spending by visitors from China, Japan, and South Korea is forecast to reach £1.4 billion for the UK economy this year, with an average visitor spend from these markets of £1,528 per visit – more than double the all-market average of £818.

Attendance at DBCNEA strengthened Visit Peak District and Derbyshire’s ongoing engagement with the Chinese market, which includes a dedicated cultural tourism friendship between Derbyshire and Anhui Province, facilitated by Make It China. This established collaboration provided valuable momentum for trade discussions during the event.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, said:

“VisitBritain’s Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia mission offered us an invaluable platform to present Derbyshire’s unique blend of heritage, nature and immersive experiences to top buyers from China, Japan and South Korea.

By bringing our region directly into the spotlight at a global event, we build the relationships and confidence needed for tour operators to book the Peak District as an essential stop on future itineraries – making a powerful case for the region as a “must-see” destination beyond the typical London circuit.

Growing awareness among these influential buyers is key to unlocking the full potential of inbound tourism for our communities and economy.”

As part of its international tourism strategy, Visit Peak District and Derbyshire has been working extensively to ensure local tourism businesses are ‘travel trade ready’. Over the past year, the organisation has supported more than 40 businesses to become trade-ready through targeted development workshops and the launch of a new Travel Trade Brochure.

Businesses can find out more about Visit Peak District and Derbyshire’s business support activity at: www.visitpeakdistrict.com/industry

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