About Chesterfield

Staveley town centre regeneration is complete

A multi-million-pound project to transform Staveley town centre is ready to welcome visitors to the town.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, has included improvements across the market place along with a striking new landmark pavilion building – together the improvements will make Staveley a more attractive destination and bring more visitors into the town centre.

The enhanced square includes new feature paving which provides a better surface, new lighting to help ensure the town centre looks its best at all hours of the day and night, new seating and planting to make it a more inviting environment, new CCTV to help ensure the town remains a safe place to visit, and a new flagship play area which was designed in consultation with students from Staveley Junior School and ensures the town centre is a place for all ages to enjoy.

Improvements also include a new sculpture which was created by artist Coralie Turpin and draws inspiration from the Cuckoo Boats which were unique to the Chesterfield Canal. It depicts nature scenes from the canal and features works created by students at Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School.

Students from both schools have visited the site to see the transformation and their contribution to the project.

The pavilion building is a new landmark for the town centre, with striking features but traditional brickwork so it is in-keeping with the wider environment. It will house Staveley Library on the ground floor and a business on the first floor – this will help attract more visitors and encourage people to support businesses based in the square. The library is expected to open later this year, and the council is in discussions with several businesses with the aim of letting the space as soon as possible.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This project has transformed the space and will encourage more visitors who will support local businesses and ensure that the town centre can thrive. We’ve created a flexible space that will help encourage visitors on a day-to-day basis but also provides space for the town centre to host events and activities for the community to enjoy.

“This is a town centre that the community can be proud of, and I hope lots of people will visit to see the transformation for themselves.”

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.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “I’m delighted that we could welcome the children who have helped create these improvements as the first visitors to this space – we wanted to ensure that young people could feel ownership of the town centre and be proud of where they live. The new sculpture is a fantastic piece that celebrates the canal but has community at its heart and the children’s works are a great addition that help make it stand out.”

The new sculpture created by Coralie Turpin was officially unveiled as part of the opening, it was funded through the Animate Chesterfield programme which aims to create artworks throughout regeneration projects in Staveley and Chesterfield.

The striking sculpture is a new landmark in the town centre and features lighting along with a cuckoo boat shape in the paving as a nod to the importance of the canal in the town’s history but also the role it provides today as a beloved local green space.

Coralie Turpin said: “I am inspired by the brave ancestors of Staveley’s communities who fearlessly navigated from the canal out to sea in barges with sails called cuckoo boats.

“I wanted the communities I worked with to understand how amazingly ambitious and intelligent these ancestors were. How important the canal was to life in Staveley and also to learn about the wildlife there.”

The project has also included improvements to the connections to the canal along with a shop front grant scheme which has seen almost half a million pounds provided to local businesses to enhance their properties and improve the look of the town.

It is one of the key Town Deal projects and its completion represents an important milestone in the overall programme.

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The completion of the town centre works marks a major moment for the Town Deal. Together our projects aim to help the community at all stages of their life and ensure that the town is a fantastic place to live and work. I’m delighted to see these works completed as this town centre continues to be a place where the community can spend time together and support local businesses.”

Work started on site in November 2024 and the town centre works were delivered by Stepnell.

Tom Sewell, director at Stepnell, said: “From the pavilion, seating and planting to the play area designed with local schoolchildren, we’ve worked closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and partners to ensure every element of the Staveley 21 scheme has been shaped and delivered to an outstanding quality.

“Having operated in this live town centre site and engaged throughout with the local community, it is incredibly rewarding to have helped bring the revitalised town centre to life. We look forward to seeing the impact this scheme will have on driving footfall into the town centre for decades to come.”

A small amount of snagging works remain around the tiered seating area, these are expected to be completed in the next few weeks and will provide a space for the community to host performances and other activities.

During the works, the statue of three industrial workers which sat in the centre of the town centre, was stolen. Chesterfield Borough Council is currently appointing an artist to work with the community to create something new that celebrates the town’s industrial past. The new statue will be fully funded by Stepnell.

The Staveley Town Deal is a £25.2 million programme funded by Government that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow. It includes new training facilities, enhanced community buildings, a canal extension, and much more.

You can find out more about the Staveley Town Deal by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Visiting

Vote for Chesterfield’s best night‑out venue in 2026 awards

Chesterfield is celebrating its vibrant nightlife as the 2026 Best Bar None Awards recognise the town’s best pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants.

Vote for your favourite venue and help celebrate the businesses that go the extra mile to create safer, more welcoming and enjoyable nights out.

The awards take place on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, and will bring together venues from across the borough to celebrate excellence in customer safety, venue management and partnership working.

Ahead of the ceremony, vote in the People’s Choice Award and support the venue you think delivers Chesterfield’s best night out.

Voting closes on Friday, 3rd July 2026.

Supporting safer socialising

Supported nationally by the Home Office and the drinks industry, the Best Bar None scheme launched in Chesterfield in 2023. Chesterfield Borough Council delivers the scheme locally in partnership with Chesterfield Pubwatch, Derbyshire Constabulary and Best Bar None.

The initiative promotes collaboration between licensed venues, police and the local authority, helping to raise standards and share best practice.

Recognising excellence across the sector

There will also be five more special awards up for grabs on the evening, chosen as part of the accreditation assessment process.

Together, these awards highlight the quality and diversity of Chesterfield’s hospitality sector and reinforce the town’s reputation as a welcoming, safe place to enjoy a night out.

Ahead of the awards, Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield and those that are signed up to the Best Bar None scheme are all playing a part to ensure everyone can feel safe when socialising in the borough.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating our accredited venues at the Best Bar None awards on 8th July, and we want to hear from you too, so make sure you vote for your favourite venue to win the People’s Choice Award 2026.”

Get involved

Support your favourite venue and celebrate the people and businesses that help make Chesterfield’s nightlife welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

Vote for your favourite venue by visiting: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/dtyqxz

This summer, Chesterfield comes alive with flavour, colour and culture. Taste global cuisines at town centre festivals or explore our independent restaurants, pubs and bars: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ 

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

How volunteers are shaping Chesterfield’s communities

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Refurbished Newbold community hub set to bring residents together

The ground-floor community room at Bonsall Court has been refurbished following a three-year lease agreement between Community Development Chesterfield (CDC) and Chesterfield Borough Council, creating a modern space for local activities.

The refurbishment project was led by six apprentices from the council’s housing property services and housing assets teams, giving them valuable hands-on experience while creating a lasting asset for the community.

Working alongside experienced colleagues, apprentices helped redecorate the building, upgrade electrical systems and lighting, install new facilities and modernise the kitchen. Two apprentices also supported the project through co-project management roles, developing skills towards their qualifications.

The team worked alongside specialist contractors to complete key improvements. Ventro installed a new fire alarm system and fire doors, while Dalton Roofing delivered a new roof system, skylights, soffits and fascias. Additional energy-efficiency upgrades included roof insulation and smart panel radiators, helping to reduce energy use and running costs.

The revitalised space will enable CDC to expand its work in Newbold and support more residents. The organisation already delivers initiatives including its Cosy Hub in Grangewood and youth groups in Duckmanton and Poolsbrook.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“The completion of the refurbishment is a proud moment for our six talented apprentices who have been involved every step of the way. Through their continued commitment, they have not only gained valuable hands-on experience, but they have also delivered a high-quality space that will have a huge benefit for the local community.

We are also pleased to see so many energy-efficient improvements made as part of the project. This contributes to our commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral borough by 2050, while also reducing energy costs for CDC.”

Bonsal Court

Dan Henman, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of Trustees at Community Development Chesterfield, said:

“This new hub will allow us to expand our work in Newbold and deliver a wide range of activities for children, young people, families and older residents.

“We believe strong communities are built when people have somewhere safe, welcoming and inclusive to come together.”

CDC is now working with residents to develop a programme of activities and services that reflect the needs of our local community.

To discover more community projects and developments taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Residents who would like to share ideas for future activities can contact CDC at info@cdchesterfield.com.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Dalton Roofing are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home

Volunteers’ Week celebrates community spirit across Chesterfield

Volunteers’ Week is being celebrated across Chesterfield, with local organisations recognising the vital contribution volunteers make to strengthening communities, supporting services and delivering events.

Chesterfield Champions are highlighting how volunteering continues to play a central role in bringing people together, creating opportunities and supporting community life across the borough.

Building friendships through volunteering at Ashgate Hospice

Harrison Fawbert, Ami Brunyee of Ashgate's Day Services, and Anne Leadbeater.  

A retired teacher and a Sheffield Hallam University student have formed an unexpected friendship while volunteering together at Ashgate Hospice.

Ashgate Hospice is highlighting the important role volunteers play in bringing people together across generations. More than 660 volunteers currently support the hospice across North Derbyshire.

Anne Leadbeater and Harrison Fawbert volunteer side by side in the hospice’s Day Services, supporting patients by serving refreshments, assisting with activities and spending time talking with visitors.

Anne began volunteering following retirement from a career in education across Derbyshire, initially supporting the hospice as a driver before moving into Day Services, where she found a welcoming environment and a renewed sense of purpose.

Harrison, who first became involved while studying fine art at Sheffield Hallam University, now volunteers regularly and has found that the experience has helped build confidence through interacting with patients and visitors, while also shaping his interest in art therapy.

The pair now volunteer together every Friday and have built a strong friendship through their shared time supporting the hospice’s services.

Anne said:

“I needed a purpose. Ashgate just felt so welcoming from the start. There’s such positivity – people expect it to be sad, but it really isn’t.”

Ashgate Hospice continues to encourage people of all ages to consider volunteering, with opportunities available across its retail, patient services, fundraising and community support roles.

Over 1,500 hours of volunteering support Junction Arts events

Junction Arts Volunteers

Arts and community organisation Junction Arts is recognising the contribution of its volunteers, who gave more than 1,500 hours of their time in 2025/26.

The volunteers support a wide range of activities, from major public events such as Chesterfield Children’s Festival and Tapton Lock Festival to behind-the-scenes work, including preparing materials, supporting school workshops, and assisting with fundraising activities.

Junction Arts says its volunteers play a key role not only in delivering events, but in shaping them, bringing insight, lived experience and community connection into its work.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said:

“They don’t just help us run our projects; they shape them.

Our volunteers are one of our most valuable assets at Junction Arts, they make our events and workshops possible but as members of our community themselves and from working closely with our participants, they offer key insights, knowledge and connection.”

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity is encouraging people across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to volunteer and help support patients, families and staff.

As part of National Volunteers’ Week, the charity is recruiting new volunteers to support fundraising activities, events and community engagement initiatives. Volunteers will help the charity fund projects and enhancements that go beyond core NHS services, improving experiences for patients and their loved ones.

Whether people can spare a few hours occasionally or are looking for a more regular commitment, there are a range of opportunities available. Volunteers play an important role in supporting fundraising campaigns, helping at events and raising awareness of the charity’s work across the local community.

To help people learn more about the opportunities available, Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity is hosting a drop-in recruitment session at Chesterfield College on Monday, 8th June 2026, from 10:00am.

Jayne Stringfellow, Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Charity Committee, said:

“These volunteers will help us go even further – bringing warmth, energy and community spirit to our fundraising and events, and supporting the projects that make a real difference for patients and families.

“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this is a great opportunity to be part of something new and help shape how our charity supports care here at Chesterfield Royal Hospital.”

Emma Costello, Volunteer Co-ordinator, added:

“Volunteering has been such a positive experience. You feel part of something bigger, you meet lovely people, and you know the support you’re giving helps fund things that really matter for patients and families. We’re so grateful to our volunteers and this is especially exciting as we’re also in National Volunteers’ Week.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield business leaders highlight quality of life as key to economic growth

Business leaders across Chesterfield say the town’s strong quality of life is helping attract talent, support growth and reinforce its reputation as a leading place to live, work and invest.

Affordability and lifestyle driving opportunity

Chesterfield’s reputation as the East Midlands’ most affordable market town is shaping both lifestyle and economic opportunity.
From accessible housing to lower operational costs, affordability is enabling residents to enjoy a better work-life balance while supporting local business resilience.

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director at Lime Living Estate Agents, explained:

“Affordability plays a major role in quality of life and economic resilience. In Chesterfield, lower living and operating costs help residents enjoy a better work-life balance and make home ownership or raising a family more achievable.”

He added that this balance strengthens the wider economy:

“When affordability is combined with investment and strong local amenities, it makes towns like Chesterfield increasingly attractive for both residents and employers.”

This strength is also reflected in the local property market. Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, said:

“Despite the Renters’ Rights Bill, potential landlords are still investing in the local market, providing quality homes for local residents and those keen to move to town.”

Katherine Stagg, Managing Director at Stagg Mortgage Services, highlighted the wider benefits for households and businesses:

“Chesterfield’s affordability makes a real difference to day-to-day life. It gives residents breathing space and allows people to enjoy a good standard of living without feeling constantly stretched.

“For local businesses, it means customers have more confidence to plan ahead, invest in their homes and support the high street. It creates a healthier, more balanced local economy.”

Strong community and local connection

Chesterfield’s appeal is also rooted in its strong sense of community and connection, something business leaders say is increasingly valued by employees and entrepreneurs.

The town has been recognised in national studies, including the Rightmove Happy at Home Index, and has been highlighted as one of Britain’s happiest places to live.

Kevin Walker, Founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, said:

“What I love about Chesterfield is that it still feels like a proper town. People know each other. Businesses talk to each other. If you get involved and support others, you become part of the local fabric quite quickly.”

Ross Watson, General Manager at GRIDSERVE’s Markham Vale Electric Forecourt, added:

“Chesterfield has a natural warmth to it. People look out for each other, and that sense of community shows up in everyday interactions, whether you’re grabbing a coffee, walking through the market or chatting to someone on a trail.”

Access to green space enhancing wellbeing

Access to nature is another defining feature of Chesterfield’s offering, with parks, walking routes, and the nearby Peak District supporting well-being and work-life balance.

The town has been ranked among the UK’s top 20 greenest towns, reinforcing its appeal as a place where residents can easily connect with the outdoors.

Ross Watson highlighted the ease of accessing these spaces:

“From Holmebrook Valley Park to Linacre Reservoirs and the Peak District just up the road, nature is woven into everyday life here.

“The Five Pits Trail is a favourite of mine. Being able to finish work and be out in peaceful surroundings within minutes is something I never take for granted.”

Melanie Archbould, CEO of Cloud-Busting, said this proximity to nature has tangible benefits:

“Being on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park changes how people live. It gives people the chance to switch off, reset and return with a clearer head.”

Summing up the balance, Kevin Walker added:

“You get the benefits of a connected town, but you are never far from somewhere quieter.”

Chesterfield’s blend of affordability, community spirit and access to green space continues to position the town as a compelling destination for businesses, investors and residents.

To discover more about what makes Chesterfield a great place to live and work, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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

Chesterfield Champions improve quality of life across Chesterfield

Chesterfield Champions are highlighting community impact across Chesterfield, with Ashgate Hospice securing funding for specialist palliative and end-of-life care services for 2026/27, Chesterfield Royal Hospital is helping to reduce elective waiting times, and Kip McGrath Chesterfield West headlines this year’s Chesterfield Children’s Festival.

Ashgate Hospice secures funding agreement for 2026/27

Ashgate Hospice

Ashgate Hospice and Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board (DDICB) have agreed on the specialist palliative and end-of-life care services that will be funded for 2026/27.

The agreement follows detailed discussions between Ashgate Hospice, DDICB and NHS England on how specialist hospice services can best meet local need within available resources.

Over recent months, Ashgate Hospice has made several changes to help reduce the gap between the cost of delivering specialist care and available funding. The agreement provides a more stable footing for 2026/27 and supports the continued delivery of hospice services across North Derbyshire.

As part of the agreement, Ashgate Hospice will increase inpatient capacity from eight to 10 beds, including two beds currently funded through the hospice’s Save a Precious Bed Appeal.

The funding settlement also supports the continuation of wider services, including care provided in people’s homes and Ashgate’s Virtual Ward service.

Ashgate Hospice, DDICB and NHS England will continue to work together over the coming year to develop a shared understanding of specialist palliative and end-of-life care provision across North Derbyshire. This will inform future planning and commissioning.

Barbara-Anne Walker, Chief Executive at Ashgate Hospice, said:

“This agreement is an important step forward for Ashgate Hospice and the people we care for across North Derbyshire.

“The last year has involved difficult decisions and detailed discussions about how specialist hospice care can continue to be delivered in a sustainable way for the future. This agreement gives us greater certainty for the year ahead and allows us to take a small but important step in increasing inpatient capacity.”

Further work will continue across Derbyshire over the next 12 months to support future commissioning arrangements, recognising the need to protect sustainability while maintaining high-quality care for local communities.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital praised for reducing patient waiting times

Dr Hal Spencer

Chesterfield Royal Hospital has recognised staff for their hard work and dedication after recording one of the biggest improvements in elective waiting times across the Midlands.

Latest NHS figures show that by the end of March, more than 61% of patients at Chesterfield Royal Hospital were waiting less than 18 weeks from referral to treatment. This represents an improvement of 7.9% since January and marks the second highest improvement across the Midlands region.

The progress follows an exceptionally busy year for the hospital, with teams continuing to deliver high-quality care while managing sustained demand and service pressures.

Over the last 12 months, Chesterfield Royal Hospital carried out 9,245 surgeries, delivered more than ten million tests, and provided 341,607 new and follow-up appointments – the highest number recorded by the trust in a single financial year.

The achievement comes despite industrial action that led to a small number of postponed appointments, tests and operations during the year. Hospital teams worked to minimise the impact on patients by prioritising those with the greatest clinical need.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, said:

“This progress is down to the incredible commitment of our staff.

“Our teams have gone above and beyond to make sure patients continue to receive high-quality care, even in the face of service disruption and unprecedented demand.”

Throughout the year, the trust introduced several measures to improve access to care and reduce waiting times. These included extending operating lists, redesigning patient pathways and increasing collaboration between teams to maximise available capacity.

Elective recovery remains a key priority for Chesterfield Royal Hospital, alongside improving urgent and emergency care, supporting staff wellbeing and working closely with NHS partners to meet the needs of local communities.

New event sponsor announced for Chesterfield Children’s Festival

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West will be the headline sponsor for this year’s Chesterfield Children’s Festival, helping expand the free family event with a new craft tent and activities.

The Chesterfield Children’s Festival will return to Queen’s Park on Saturday, 18th July 2025, and Sunday, 19th July 2025, for its fourth year, organised by local charity Junction Arts.

Since launching in 2023, the event has grown into a key date in the town’s cultural calendar, bringing together arts, culture and play for children aged 0–16.

This year’s festival will be the largest yet, supported by a £1,000 sponsorship from Kip McGrath Chesterfield West. The funding will help introduce a new craft tent, offering free drop-in workshops across the weekend including cyanotype printing, badge making, pottery and make-your-own football shirt activities.

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West, run by Andy and Lorna Bell, provides English and maths tuition for primary, secondary and post-16 learners, working with schools and families to support confidence and learning.

Lorna Bell, Director at Kip McGrath Chesterfield West, said:

“Supporting children’s development goes beyond the classroom; play and creativity are just as important in helping young people grow in confidence. When we visited the festival last year, we were blown away by the variety of activities and the fact that everything was completely free for families. We knew straight away that we wanted to be involved in supporting something so special for our community.”

Junction Arts Kip McGrath

Ashgate Hospice, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Kip McGrath Chesterfield West and Junction Arts are four of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Taste the world in Chesterfield: 11 places to try this summer

Discover 11 local venues bringing global flavours to Chesterfield, alongside a summer packed with food festivals and events.

You can get a taste of Spanish, British, Peruvian, Italian, German, Mexican, Greek, Turkish and more cuisines thanks to our independent restaurants.

Revitalised market spaces now host street food festivals and live entertainment, bringing a buzz to our town centre. Mix in music, global flavours and good company, and Chesterfield becomes somewhere we actively choose to spend our time.

Events like The Great Chesterfield Feast will transform New Square with independent traders cooking global dishes just metres from our favourite shops. A chance to enjoy family-friendly entertainment and live music while catching up with friends.

That sense of global curiosity continues with the Chesterfield International Market, with stalls serving global street food, sweet treats and unique handmade goods. From bold spices to indulgent desserts, it’s a feast for the senses and a great way to experience something different.

Later in the summer, Peddler Market will return, celebrating delicious food and local traders, alongside live entertainment in the heart of our town centre. Independent stalls will offer unique crafts, alongside street food from around the world, to try something new.

A world of flavour on our doorstep

1. Spanish-inspired Cocina at Casa Hotel champions social dining, with colourful tapas and their much-loved paella designed for sharing. It’s relaxed, welcoming and perfectly suited to long conversations around the table.Casa

2. The award-winning Tickled Trout focuses on quality ingredients with classic fish and chips served alongside homemade tartare sauce.

The Tickled Trout

3. At The Batch House, a mix of cultures comes together under one roof. Taste Peru stands out for its slow-cooked birria beef tacos, rich with smoky flavour and made with real pride.

The Batch House

4. Italian favourites at La Dolce Vita balance indulgence and authenticity – from delicate seafood pasta to generously-filled, crispy calzones.

La Dolce Vita

5. Einsteins reworks German and British comfort food for today, with schnitzels served as burgers, dishes designed for sharing and a drinks menu shaped by modern craft beer culture.

Einsteins

6. Darwin & Bear adds a Mexican influence with warming, flavour-packed dishes like its signature beef chilli.

Darwin and bear

7. Odyssey Restaurant offers a welcoming taste of Greece, with home-style cooking that encourages lingering over food and conversation. Think slow-cooked lamb dishes, moussaka layered with rich béchamel, and fresh meze plates designed for sharing.

Greek breads and dips and a glass of wine at Odyssey, Chesterfield

8. Afat’s Turkish Grill proves popular with groups, thanks to a mixed grill designed for sharing and trying a bit of everything. Juicy koftas, marinated meats from the charcoal grill and platters that invite everyone to dig in together.

Afats Bar

9. For more laid-back evenings, Gasoline pairs American-style wings and loaded fries with pool tables and arcade games.

10. O-Tokuda offers a calm introduction to Japanese dining, with freshly prepared dishes available à la carte or through an all-you-can-eat menu for those keen to explore.

11. Gulab on Chatsworth Road remains a trusted favourite for spice-led Indian cooking, particularly its rich and satisfying karahi dishes.

Together, these places tell a bigger story. Food in Chesterfield reflects our town – rooted, welcoming and quietly adventurous. Shaped by our people who cook, serve and share it.

Find inspiration and discover what to do, where to go and how to make the most of summer in Chesterfield at www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Regional milestones highlight community impact across our region

From the Mayor of the East Midlands completing a 150-mile active travel challenge, to Chesterfield Champions supporting young people into careers, and a hospice nursing team marking more than 100 years of service, these stories showcase achievements, skills and community commitment across our region.

FASTSIGNS inspires future talent through careers programme

Chesterfield-based signage company is helping to inspire future talent through a programme designed to give young people real insight into careers in creative and manufacturing industries.

FASTSIGNS has partnered with Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) to support the Careers Made in Chesterfield programme, funded by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The initiative links young people, parents, teachers and carers with local opportunities across key sectors including manufacturing and engineering, property and construction, and social care, helping to strengthen the pipeline of future skills across the town.

As part of the programme, a group of young people from Thr1ve, a social prescribing initiative, visited FASTSIGNS to explore how the business operates. The visit included behind-the-scenes access to design processes, production techniques and the specialist equipment used to manufacture signage.

The experience ended with a hands-on workshop led by director Martin Slater, where participants designed and produced their own custom signs to take home. The session provided a practical introduction to both creativity and technical manufacturing skills.

Martin Slater, Director at FASTSIGNS, said:

“Opening our doors to these students isn’t just about showing them the ropes; it’s about showing them what possibilities await them in the creative and manufacturing industries and giving them the opportunity and confidence to believe in their abilities.”

Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at DEBP, added:

“The visit to FASTSIGNS was a hugely valuable experience for our students. Martin and his team provided a fascinating insight into the industry, from the day-to-day challenges and technology to the various career pathways available locally and internationally. The feedback from the pupils was extremely positive; seeing the equipment in action and then being able to manufacture their own signs to take home truly brought the industry to life for them.”

Alongside its work with young people, FASTSIGNS has also supported Mossbrook Primary School with bespoke inclusive “core vocabulary” signage designed to improve communication across the school environment.

Interested in engaging with young talent? Sign up to our Skills and Employability newsletter to discover opportunities to connect with young people: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-employability-newsletter

Ashgate Hospice nursing team marks more than 100 years of combined service

Ashgate nursing team celebrates more than 100 years of combined service

Ashgate Hospice’s nursing team is celebrating more than 100 years of combined service this International Nurses Day (12 May), recognising decades of dedication to providing specialist palliative and end-of-life care across North Derbyshire.

The team at Ashgate Hospice works within Day Services, supporting people early in their palliative care journey through drop-in sessions, appointments, physiotherapy, complementary therapies, emotional support and clinical advice.

Collectively, the team has built up decades of experience. Veronica Doxey and Sue Blair have each completed 30 years of service, Gail Fawbert and Sarah Kerry have each reached 20 years, while Amanda Ashcroft, Tracey Howarth and Ami Brunyee have each completed 10 years with the hospice.

Together, the team supports patients across North Derbyshire, the High Peak and Dales, including care delivered in people’s homes as well as at the hospice.

Sarah Kerry, Head of Onsite and Support Services at Ashgate Hospice, said:

“We’ve worked together as a team for 10 years and have built strong relationships over that time. Throughout, our shared goal has always been providing excellent care. Our patients are at the heart of everything we do.”

She added:

“We recognise each other’s skills and strengths and support one another whenever it’s needed. We’re open and honest as a team – nothing is off the table, whether that’s having a laugh together or talking through more difficult situations.

“What I like most about my role here is that we have the luxury of being able to spend time with patients. We get to know them as individuals, understand their needs, and empower them to live well, and for as long as they can.”

Last year, Ashgate Hospice supported more than 2,600 people, including over 1,300 in their own homes, highlighting the scale and importance of its community-based care.

Sarah added:
“Our role is incredibly rewarding. It’s about planning care, managing symptoms and being there for patients and the people important to them when they need us most.

“My job is made easier because of the people around me. This team is so supportive and there’s a whole lot of laughter as well as care in what we do. Some days are very challenging, but we always support each other. We treat every day as a new day.”

She added:
“Even though we’re supporting people through very difficult times, there’s still a lot of warmth and laughter. Patients are looking for the positives in each day, and we share those moments with them.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Shortlists announced for Chesterfield Business Awards 2026

The finalists for the new Chesterfield Business Awards have been revealed following the completion of judging ahead of the awards ceremony on Wednesday, 1st July 2026.

Judges from across the region met in early May to review a strong field of entries, highlighting the innovation, resilience and success of businesses from across Chesterfield. Organisers have now confirmed the official category shortlists and will announce the winners at the celebration dinner in July.

The awards have attracted sponsorship interest from a wide range of businesses across our region, including several Chesterfield Champions and SMH Mitchells, one of many recent businesses to be brought under the growing SMH Group umbrella, as well as the University of Derby, which has joined as Industry and Employability Partner in support of its soon-to-be-launched business programme at its St Helena site in the heart of Chesterfield.

Speaking about the partnership, Professor Keith McLay, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Derby, said:

“Chesterfield is a town that invests in skills development that is aligned with industry needs. It has a skilled and developing workforce, and with the University of Derby’s expansion in this area, Chesterfield will have a growing talent pipeline.”

Andrew McDaid, Partner at SMH Mitchells, added:

“Chesterfield has a unique ‘small town feel with big city ambition’. There is a remarkable sense of community here; it’s a place where relationships actually matter. We are incredibly proud to be the headline sponsor for the inaugural Chesterfield Business Awards. For us, it’s about shining a well-deserved spotlight on the innovation and resilience that exists right here in our borough.”

The judging panel was selected from across Chesterfield and the Peak District for their experience in business, commerce and commitment to supporting local growth. Members included Dominic Stevens of Destination Chesterfield, Samantha Deakin of the University of Derby, Marvin Cooke OBE DL of the King’s Awards for Enterprise, Professor Peter Dewhurst of Business Peak District, and Anne Batty of Paperclip.

Dominic Stevens, Head of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“The standard of entries for this year’s Chesterfield Business Awards has been outstanding. The judging process has been thorough and highly competitive, with businesses across the borough demonstrating real strength in performance, leadership and community impact.

Shortlisting has been no easy task, which says a great deal about the ambition and quality of Chesterfield’s business community. What’s come through is the diversity of the local economy, with organisations of all sizes helping to drive a vibrant and resilient place. There are some brilliant stories here to celebrate.”

Award categories

Best enterprising business  (up to 10 employees)

Sponsored by SMH Mitchells

Best enterprising business  (11+ employees)

Sponsored by SMH Mitchells

Best business growth 

Sponsored by Dialled In

  • CRIT
  • Derbyshire Pie & Co
  • Ellenvale Interiors
  • Fluency Business Group

Best new business 

Sponsored by Minuteman Press Chesterfield

  • 21 Photography
  • CRIT
  • La Dolce Vita Lambarelli’s
  • Peak & Stone Bakery

Employer of the year

Sponsored by University of Derby

Excellence in customer service 

Sponsored by LTZ Group

Inspirational business person of the year

  • Annie Johnson
  • Izabella Edwards
  • Martin Wallis-Keyworth
  • Philip Dalton

Sole trader of the year

  • Mike Jones Photography
  • Andrew Haslam Media
  • Annie Littlewood
  • Helen Rowan Photography

Best community impact

Sponsored by Fluency Group

  • Kakou CIC
  • Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust
  • Pathways
  • Friends of Thistle Park

Business of the year

Sponsored by Cosy Direct – winner will be announced at the awards ceremony

Chesterfield Champions are made up of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield

Taste the world in Chesterfield this summer

Chesterfield is set for an exciting summer in 2026, with a packed programme of food festivals, cultural events and family experiences taking place across the borough.

From international street food markets to immersive town centre events and outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy time together and discover something new.

These experiences are showcased on the Summer in Chesterfield website to encourage visitors and residents to make the most of the season. The programme celebrates global culture, with the return of much-loved events like Peddler Market and the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, alongside new additions, including Chesterfield on Safari and the Chesterfield Steampunk Weekend.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said:

“We’ve got something for everyone to experience this summer, from sampling fantastic street food and exploring different cultures to spending time with the people you love. Start planning your summer now because we’ve got lots of exciting events that will make it truly unforgettable.”

Andrew Byrne, Destination Chesterfield Chair, added:

“Chesterfield has so much to offer all year round, and the summer sunshine makes it even better. From tasty food and vibrant events to spending time with family and friends, it’s a chance to come together and support our welcoming local businesses.”

Discover family-friendly events and experiences

A male speaking into a microphone to a group of 5-9 year old children at a Junction Arts event

The Chesterfield Children’s Festival returns to Queen’s Park on Saturday, 18th and Sunday, 19th July, celebrating imagination and play with live music, theatre, storytelling, dance, and much more.

Chesterfield Markets will host a series of themed events throughout the summer, creating interactive experiences in the town centre. Highlights include the Steampunk Market Weekend on Saturday, 4th July and Sunday, 5th July, delivered in partnership with Newark Steampunk Society, featuring creative costumes, live entertainment and a colourful parade on the Sunday.

New for this year is Chesterfield on Safari on Saturday, 22nd August, where life-sized animatronic animals and interactive performances will take over the market area. Families can also enjoy an Emergency Services Day on Saturday, 15th August, offering hands-on activities, displays and demonstrations showcasing the work of local emergency services.

At Barrow Hill Roundhouse, visitors can explore the DPS Model Railway Show on Saturday, 11th and Sunday, 12th July, and Bricks in the Roundhouse on Saturday, 29th and Sunday, 30th August, bringing impressive Lego creations and interactive activities to the unique heritage venue.

The season will round off with the Tapton Lock Festival on Saturday, 5th September, set alongside the canal, featuring live performances, creative workshops and outdoor activities for all ages.

Alongside these events, visitors can enjoy Chesterfield’s outdoor attractions throughout the summer, including paddle sports and boat trips along the Chesterfield Canal, miniature train rides in Queen’s Park and guided tours of the iconic Crooked Spire.

Taste the world in Chesterfield

The batch house

Chesterfield’s food and drink offer takes centre stage this summer, with a series of festivals celebrating global flavours and local produce.

The Chesterfield Food Festival launches the programme on Sunday, 7th June, bringing together a wide selection of street food, artisan produce and speciality drinks.

Later in June, the International Market will fill the town centre with traders from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st June, offering foods and goods from around the world, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to explore.

The popular Peddler Market returns twice over the summer – in June and August – combining street food, craft drinks, independent traders and live music in a relaxed, social setting.

On Saturday 1st and Sunday, 2nd August, the Great Chesterfield Feast will showcase a diverse mix of global cuisine, sweet treats and handmade goods, providing another opportunity to enjoy the town centre.

Visitors can also experience Chesterfield’s independent food and drink scene throughout the season, with brewery tours and historic pub experiences offering a chance to discover local flavours and stories.

The Summer in Chesterfield campaign is brought together by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield. To fill your summer with flavours and fun in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

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