About Chesterfield

New supermarket development supports jobs for the community

8th July 2025

Thirty local people will be offered guaranteed job interviews at a new supermarket in Brimington. This follows completion of a short training programme. The opportunity is part of a sector-based work academy.

The new Aldi store is located on Ringwood Road. Chesterfield Borough Council approved the planning application in January. As a major development, it includes local labour conditions. These aim to create jobs and training for residents.

Training and job opportunities

The store is expected to create 40 to 50 new jobs. It is due to open in mid-November. A two-week sector-based work academy will begin on the 4th August. The programme is part of the council’s employment and skills plan. It will be delivered in partnership with Chesterfield College.

As a result, 30 people who complete the training will receive guaranteed interviews. To support this, two information events will take place on Friday 18 July. Both will be held at St Michael’s Church Hall in Brimington.

Sessions will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Attendees can learn about the roles available and how to enrol. Anyone interested can register by emailing: paul.munday2@dwp.gov.uk

Supporting local employment

“We want to do all we can as a council to ensure that local talent is recognised and celebrated, so securing 30 job interviews for those who have completed the short training programme is great news,” said Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council. “By working in partnership with organisations, we help local people develop the skills to progress in their careers or access new opportunities as they become available.”

Scott Smith, area manager for Aldi, said: “Aldi is delighted to be investing in Chesterfield through the opening of a new store in Brimington that is scheduled to open mid-November. As an organisation, we are committed to supporting local regeneration and are looking forward to working with local partners on the delivery of the sector-based work academy.

Julie Richards, principal and CEO at the Chesterfield College Group, added: “We are delighted to be providing the training to support 30 members of our local community with the opportunity of employment.

Image: Aldi

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Skills

M Core acquires Vicar Lane shopping centre

7th July 2025

One of the UK’s largest privately held property investment collectives, Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, has acquired Vicar Lane shopping centre in Chesterfield.

A well-positioned town centre asset

The 202,000 sq ft scheme includes 34 retail units and a 400-space car park. It is home to a strong mix of national and regional occupiers. These include JD Sports, H&M, Iceland, The Works, Deichmann, Waterstones, New Look and Holland & Barrett.

In addition, the site features civic space at St James’ Square, which includes a 12-metre LED screen. It is also located close to key development sites such as Chesterfield Waterside and Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield

“Vicar Lane is a well-positioned retail destination in a town with ambition and momentum,” said Danny O’Keefe, founding partner at Sheet Anchor Evolve. “As a long-term investor, our strength lies in our ability to invest in places, work closely with tenants and local stakeholders, and use our in-house expertise to unlock value. This is exactly the type of asset we can evolve through intensive management – enhancing its relevance to the community and supporting its role in Chesterfield’s wider regeneration.”

Supporting local growth

This acquisition supports M Core’s strategy of investing in convenience-led retail. It also reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s town centre as a place for sustainable retail and business activity.

“This latest acquisition underlines our focus on assets where we can bring capital, capability and creativity to deliver strong outcomes,” added O’Keefe

For more information about Vicar Lane Chesterfield, visit: www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk

Chesterfield town centre investment

The investment follows recent news of improvements to and investment in Chesterfield town centre:

If you would like to discuss investment opportunities in Chesterfield town centre, please contact us.

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

Five local firms making national impact

4th July 2025

Chesterfield continues to shine as a centre of innovation, enterprise, and community-driven success, with five businesses recently recognised on regional, national, and international stages. From sustainability leadership to creative excellence and social impact, these achievements reflect the town’s reputation as a place to do business.

Killingley: Winner in landscaping excellence

Killingley, a long-established landscaping firm based in Chesterfield, was named Commercial Landscape Company of the year at the Pro Landscaper Business Awards 2025, recognised for its excellence in client retention, industry leadership, and a people-first culture. Judges praised the company’s strong financial stability and standout performance in safety, quality, and employee wellbeing.

Gareth Dillion, Managing Director at Killingley, said: “This is fantastic industry recognition for the entire Killigley team who, through their continued hard work and commitment to representing the company with professionalism and pride, have all contributed to this accolade. Everyone who wears the Killingley brand should feel extremely proud of their combined achievement.”

With over 110 employees and over 50 years of experience, Killingley continues to set benchmarks in commercial landscaping, including multiple national awards from the British Association of Landscape Industries.

CRUSH: International acclaim for design innovation

Chesterfield design agency CRUSH has added another accolade to its portfolio, winning in the ‘Excellent Brands – Industry, Machines and Engineering’ category at the German Brand Awards 2025. The award celebrates CRUSH’s transformative rebrand of engineering firm Ziemann Holvrieka, praised for its strategic depth, sustainability focus, and global visual impact.

“Ziemann Holvrieka, a leading company in the beverage industry with over 170 years of experience, has achieved an impressive transformation through its rebranding. The new brand identity seamlessly combines tradition and future by emphasising both technological excellence and sustainability,” noted the German Design Council.

CRUSH’s work included a full brand identity, multilingual website, exhibition design, and comprehensive brand guidelines, showcasing Chesterfield’s creative talent on the international stage.

Black Swan Cyber Security: Championing small business protection

Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, a Chesterfield-based firm specialising in cyber protection for small organisations, was selected by retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis as a winner in his Small Business Sunday (#SBS) initiative. The recognition brings national exposure and networking opportunities to the business, which supports schools, care providers, and parish councils.

“Theo’s support amplifies our mission to make robust cyber security accessible to organisations of all sizes,” said founder Kevin Walker.

The #SBS network now includes over 4,000 UK businesses, and Black Swan’s inclusion highlights Chesterfield’s growing tech and digital sector.

Paragon: Leading the way in sustainable business

Advanced cleaning solutions provider Paragon has achieved Gold status from Ecovadis, placing it in the top 5% of companies assessed globally for sustainability. The firm ranks in the 98th percentile worldwide and top 1% in its sector, reflecting excellence in environmental, ethical, and labour practices.

“Sustainability is no longer a bolt-on; it’s built into how we operate,” said Jorden Clay, Group General Manager. “This award recognises the ambition and dedication of our team.”

Paragon’s achievement follows its recent expansion into a new facility on Broombank Road, reinforcing Chesterfield’s credentials as a base for responsible, forward-thinking enterprise.

Kakou: Driving Social Impact Through Inclusive Innovation

Ann Fomukong-Boden, founder of Kakou Technologies, has been shortlisted for the Enterprising Women Award for Social Commitment by the East Midlands Chamber. The nomination celebrates Kakou’s work in ethical innovation and inclusive design, with a focus on empowering communities and regenerating places.

“As a woman in engineering, I’m proud to show that purpose-led business can empower voices and inspire the next generation of changemakers,” said Ann.

Kakou’s recognition places Chesterfield at the heart of a regional movement celebrating women’s leadership and social enterprise.

These achievements reflect more than individual success; they showcase Chesterfield’s dynamic business landscape, where creativity, sustainability, and community values drive innovation.

Killingley, CRUSH, Kakou, Paragon Products and Black Swan Cyber Security support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield

Historic canal to bring future economic and community boost

4th July 2025

There’s something meditative about walking along the Chesterfield Canal. The wind whistling through the reeds and a gentle lap of ripples against the bank always seems to slow my steps. And if you pause long enough, you can spot all manner of wildlife, including deer, herons and moorhens to name just a few!

But this is no ordinary stretch of water. It mirrors the story of our wonderful town and its industrial roots. Originally built to transport coal, iron and stone, it is now evolving into a corridor of opportunity.

This spring, a masterplan was unveiled to complete the final 8.5 miles of the Chesterfield Canal between Staveley and Kiveton Park, making the whole 46-mile route fully navigable once again. But this isn’t just about restoring a piece of our past with rose-tinted spectacles. It’s about reimagining a picturesque channel through our communities, one that connects nature, leisure, health, business and heritage.

Eighteen different hubs have been identified along the canal’s route, each with their own character and potential. Plans include fitness trails, cycling and walking routes, paddle sports, outdoor learning spaces, wildlife havens, and new job opportunities.

It’s designed to be a place where people live, work and play. Where you can walk the dog at sunrise, stop for a coffee, kayak in the afternoon, and meet friends for dinner by the water. I’m excited that my young daughter will have access to a beautiful space as she grows up, providing opportunities for us to spend quality time as a family, but also for her to develop new hobbies, interests and activities in the future.

Take Staveley Canal Basin, for example. Already a cherished local gem, it’s now the home of The Moorings — a stylish new development offering new business space with room for cafés, shops, and workspaces. Imagine sipping your favourite coffee or a cooling smoothie, while narrowboats pass just metres away — idyllic!

Did you know that 12 miles have already been restored over the past 35 years? The work continues thanks to dedicated volunteers and bold investments from those who see the canal’s potential.

Have you walked or cycled over our town’s new 38-metre Trans Pennine Trail bridge yet? Imagine the views and the stunning photo opportunities once the canal beneath has been rewatered.

But the bigger picture is even more inspiring. This regeneration could bring in over £250 million in visitor spending, boost local nature and biodiversity, and support thousands of jobs and businesses.

I’ll be spending a lot of time down by the water this summer. Say hi if you bump into me! Explore car-free, dog-friendly days out, fabulous food and drink and discover the canal’s beauty for yourself: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Development, Home, Summer

Chesterfield barbers named top 50 SME apprenticeship employer four years in a row

3rd July 2025

Less Than Zero Barbers has once again secured its place in the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2025, as published by RateMyApprenticeship in partnership with the Department for Education. Now ranked ninth nationwide, this marks the fourth consecutive year that the pioneering barbering business has been recognised for its exceptional contribution to apprenticeship training and youth employment.

Founded with a vision to modernise barbering and transform how young people enter the trade, Less Than Zero Barbers has developed an award-winning training pipeline that combines government-funded apprenticeships with privately accredited programmes. The company has supported hundreds of learners in gaining practical skills, customer service expertise, and commercial acumen while championing the independent spirit that defines the UK’s grooming sector.

“We believe apprenticeships are far more than qualifications — they are life-changing springboards for meaningful careers,” said Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Founder and CEO of Less Than Zero Barbers. “To be recognised for a fourth year running demonstrates the impact of investing in people and our commitment to driving standards ever higher.”

With its dedicated academy and expanding network of shops, Less Than Zero Barbers continues to create pathways for local talent. Many apprentices progress to become senior barbers or open their own chairs and businesses under the group’s guidance, strengthening local economies and high streets in the process.

The Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers list celebrates small and medium-sized enterprises across England that demonstrate outstanding dedication to apprenticeships. The rigorous selection criteria highlight not only the scale of provision but also quality, retention, and the transformative impact on learners’ futures.

Apprentice Town

Chesterfield is an ‘Apprentice Town’, where young people, parents and businesses think apprenticeship first.

Growing individuals’ careers and futures alongside successful businesses and a growing local economy.

Taking on apprentices is a positive way for businesses to address their workforce needs.

Benefits include:

Solving recruitment challenges and growing your business
Increasing productivity
A tried and tested way to recruit new staff, re-train or upskill existing staff
Flexible training that meets the needs of your business

If you would like support on taking on apprentices or wider skills or business support, you can request further advice at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Search here if you are looking for an apprenticeship in and around Chesterfield.

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

Chesterfield business leaders call for further investment in skills and innovation to enhance the visitor experience

3rd July 2025

As Chesterfield’s visitor economy continues to grow, access to the right talent and support for businesses is essential.

At a recent table hosted by Destination Chesterfield at Dronfield Hall Barn, business, heritage and tourism leaders from across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire gathered to explore how it can develop the next generation of hospitality and cultural professionals, while embracing emerging technologies such as AI.

One key theme was the need to address skills shortages in certain parts of the sector, particularly in technical hospitality roles such as chefs and kitchen staff.

“Front-of-house isn’t a problem, there’s lots of interest in those roles from students or people seeking a secondary income,” explained Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire. “But chefs remain a challenge. Some businesses are recruiting from overseas and offering on-site accommodation. We want to see more young people viewing it as a rewarding and skilled career path again.”

Peter Lawrence from East Midlands Chamber confirmed the same pattern in other industries:

“We hear it time and time again, especially from bakeries and craft food producers. It’s a constant challenge. That’s why we’re working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council to get employers in front of skills boards and into conversations that matter.”

Chesterfield’s visitor economy is benefiting from broader regional support through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), delivered by East Midlands Chamber. Peter highlighted the relevance of this work to the local sector.

“We’ve supported over 100 businesses in the Chesterfield area alone,” he said, “providing mentoring, coaching, and practical support to drive growth and sustainability. It’s about equipping businesses to face today’s challenges while planning for tomorrow.”

Across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, the impact has been significant:

4,790 unique businesses supported.

598 new jobs created and 504 safeguarded.

401 firms adopted new-to-the-business technologies or processes.

143 new businesses launched.

“We’re seeing real traction in areas like digital transformation, decarbonisation, and upskilling,” Peter added. “The key now is connecting these opportunities with employers and individuals in the visitor economy.”

Participants highlighted the value of work experience placements and early exposure as recruitment tools.

“We had a 14-year-old on placement recently who was fantastic,” said Alan Powell of Dronfield Heritage Trust. “It’s a way to give someone an opportunity and see if there’s a future there.”

“The best recruitment route for young people is work experience,” added Jo Dilley. “But we need more businesses going into schools and engaging with students before they’ve made their career choices.”

Creative and cultural sectors are no exception. Emily Bowman of Junction Arts noted: “There’s very little creative curriculum left in schools. Many young people get turned away from the arts or leave town to find opportunities. But it’s a real job—we run apprenticeships and placements, and we’re competitive because not many do what we do.”

SA Photography owner Scott Antcliffe, a former teacher, shared his belief in the power of early engagement: “I’ve worked in underprivileged areas where four or more career engagements reduce the likelihood of a young person becoming NEET by 80%. It’s about breaking down stereotypes. There are lots of creative, achievable options out there if we just show young people what’s possible.”

While staffing pressures have eased since the pandemic’s peak, sector leaders expressed concern about the long-term impacts of cost inflation, tax changes, and business closures.

“Staffing isn’t the main issue now, but we may not feel the full financial impact until autumn,” Jo Dilley noted. “Some mid-tier attractions are now closing two or three days a week. It’s a real challenge when National Insurance thresholds and rising costs disproportionately affect hospitality and tourism.”

To support resilience, some organisations are finding creative ways to train and retain staff. Chesterfield FC CEO John Croot shared one such success: “When we couldn’t find kiosk staff, we spoke to the stewarding agency. They said they’d handle both. That became a new model—we’d use stewards for hospitality in the first half, and they’d steward in the second. It’s worked well for us.”

Croot added that regular off-season training has helped develop staff internally and prepare the club for future growth. “It all comes down to training. We’ve got ongoing development in place now. It’s much better than it was at the height of the staffing crisis.”

As businesses across Chesterfield look to future-proof operations, many are exploring the role of digital tools and AI in supporting growth, efficiency, and customer experience.

“We’ve transitioned to Ticketmaster, and younger staff have led the way in showing others how to use the new system,” said Croot. “We’ve also used technology to improve matchday efficiency and reduce waste.”

AI’s marketing applications were another hot topic.

“We’re pushing out support to ensure businesses are aware of the positives and negatives of AI,” said Jo Dilley. “It’s a great tool for marketing—creating itineraries, writing adverts, and streamlining content. But young people are savvy and will expect us to keep up. It’s about staying a step ahead.”

Peter Lawrence pointed to AI’s long-term potential for data-led decision-making: “The cost of these tools is going down, and take-up will increase. From understanding customer spending to 24/7 optimisation, businesses can work smarter. It’s a matter of adapting.”

However, some warned that AI has its limits. “As a writer, I can spot AI content a mile off—and so can editors,” said Antcliffe. “It can’t replicate first-hand experience or passion. There’s still a huge value in authentic storytelling.”

“AI won’t replace hospitality jobs,” Dilley added. “This is a people-focused industry. We still rely on human connection.”

Croot agreed, noting the global reach of Chesterfield FC’s human stories: “We’ve had 20 games streamed internationally this season. After a recent televised match, I was getting messages from supporters in Canada and Thailand saying they had spotted me! That emotional connection? No AI can replicate that.”

While new tools and tech present exciting opportunities, round table attendees agreed that the greatest success still comes from working together.

“This sector is seven days a week,” Dilley concluded. “To grow it, we need businesses that are open, welcoming, and ready. But we also need to make sure we’re building the right training, support and infrastructure—and working together to get it right.”

Businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire looking to access business advice and support can find out more about available schemes in the local area here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Businesses who are looking to engage more with and inspire young people can discover opportunities to support careers guidance at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/engage-with-schools-and-colleges/

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Skills

Young voices shape festival through comedy

2nd July 2025

Year five pupils from Abercrombie Primary School in Chesterfield swapped their usual lessons for laughter last month, taking part in a high-energy comedy masterclass that also marked the start of their exciting new role as ‘Festival Budding Investigators’ (F.B.I.) for the Chesterfield Children’s Festival.

Delivered by local arts charity Junction Arts, the session was led by professional comedian and magician Dominic Woodward, AKA Wacky Woody, who brought jokes, magic, and creativity to the classroom. The workshop aimed to introduce children to the art of comedy while kickstarting their involvement in shaping future editions of the popular family festival.

During the day, pupils explored what makes people laugh, learned how to construct the perfect punchline, and had the chance to write and perform their own comedy sketches. The session also included improvisation exercises and caption-writing challenges designed to boost creativity and confidence.

Junction Arts is working closely with the year five class throughout the next 12 months, giving them a voice in the development of the Chesterfield Children’s Festival. As official ‘F.B.I. agents’, the children will attend cultural experiences, participate in creative workshops, and provide feedback and ideas to help ensure the festival continues to grow and reflect the interests of young people in the town.

Their first mission? To evaluate the 2025 Chesterfield Children’s Festival, taking place on 26th and 27th July at Queen’s Park. Now in its third year, the free event celebrates imagination, play and the magic of childhood, offering a wide variety of activities, performances, and experiences suitable for children aged 0–16.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said: “Our goal with the Children’s Festival is to bring high-quality arts and cultural experiences to Chesterfield and inspire young people with something new. Over the past three years, we’ve introduced everything from silent discos and catwalk shows to giant arcade games and live movie experiences. The comedy workshop was a fantastic start to the children’s journey as our team of Festival Budding Investigators. Dominic was genuinely impressed with some of the jokes they came up with! Their ideas and honest feedback are vital to keeping the festival fresh, relevant, and exciting for years to come.”

Mrs. Johnson, Year 5 teacher at Abercrombie Primary, added: “The children absolutely loved the workshop. There were laughs throughout the day, but they also learned a lot, particularly about using homophones in comedy. It was amazing to see them grow in confidence, with every child performing something by the end. We’re all looking forward to being part of this journey with Junction Arts.”

Dominic Woodward said: “It was a pleasure to visit Abercrombie Primary School and deliver a Comedy Workshop for Year Five. What a great class. They let their imaginations run wild and expressed themselves and their personalities through comedy. It was great to hear jokes about their pets, Minecraft, Spiderman and of course – poo! (kids’ favourite subject to joke about!) It was wonderful to watch how even the children who weren’t as confident came up with excellent gags and even had a go at performing them!”

For more information about the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, visit: https://junctionarts.org/whats-on/chesterfield-childrens-festival/ or follow Junction Arts on social media @JunctionArtsUK

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.

Our town offers the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. Look forward to the return of the Chesterfield Children’s Festival or enjoy a night of stargazing at Chesterfield Observatory. Step back in time at a medieval exhibition, discover ghostly tales on a haunted pub tour, or soak up our vibrant food and music scenes.

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

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

Planning application submitted for 53,000 Sq. Ft. industrial unit at Markham Vale

2nd July 2025

Developer HBD, part of Henry Boot, has submitted a planning application for the second phase of ARK, a £27million GDV scheme at its flagship M1 industrial and logistics development, Markham Vale.

ARK is being delivered by Origin, a joint-venture partnership between HBD and Feldberg Capital.

Markham Vale is a landmark 200-acre industrial and logistics scheme delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. An award-winning development, it sits at the heart of the motorway network with direct access to the M1 via J29a.

It has created more than 2,600 jobs since work began and counts Bilstein Group, Great Bear, Smurfit Westrock and Sterigenics among its occupiers.

Work began earlier this year on the first phase of the new development, which consists of four units from 17,000sq ft to 36,000sq ft. Henry Boot Construction is the contractor for phase one, with the first four units due to complete late 2025. The second phase of ARK will deliver the final 53,000sq ft unit, with work expected to start on-site in Q4 subject to planning permission being granted.

Origin is committed to delivering ESG-compliant I&L space, with ARK meeting stringent sustainability benchmarks, targeting BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating.

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD, said: “Working with Derbyshire County Council, HBD has delivered 2.5 million sq ft at Markham Vale, creating a very successful industrial and logistics destination. With established demand from logistics and manufacturing businesses, it’s very positive to be able to bring forward a further 53,000sq ft unit at ARK.”

Jamie Acheson, Managing Director of Feldberg Capital, commented: “The submission of planning for ARK’s second phase represents a significant milestone in our strategic partnership with HBD. This 53,000sq ft unit will complete our vision for a best-in-class industrial development at Markham Vale, addressing the clear market demand we’re seeing in this prime logistics location. As Origin continues to expand its portfolio of ESG-compliant assets across the UK, ARK exemplifies our commitment to developing sustainable, future-proof industrial spaces that meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.”

If you are looking for commercial property in Chesterfield discover more at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

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

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

Chesterfield shortlisted for national circular economy award

1st July 2025

Chesterfield has been named a finalist in the Let’s Celebrate Towns awards, shortlisted for the Circularity Champion category in recognition of its pioneering work in sustainability and the circular economy.

The award, run by Visa and supported by the British Retail Consortium, celebrates towns leading the way in reducing waste, reusing materials, and supporting sustainable business practices. Chesterfield’s nomination, submitted by local MP Toby Perkins, highlights the town’s growing reputation as a hub for green innovation and community-led environmental action.

Toby Perkins MP said: “I am delighted that Chesterfield has been shortlisted for this award and is being recognised for our local efforts. The Chesterfield community has wholeheartedly embraced the principles of the circular economy. It’s a cause that residents care deeply about, with many regularly contacting me to express their support for local initiatives.”

If successful, Chesterfield will receive £20,000 to invest in a local community project, further strengthening its commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.

Chesterfield Borough Council has played a central role in championing the circular economy, supporting grassroots organisations through local community grants. One standout initiative is Transition Chesterfield’s Eco Hub, a dedicated space for workshops, events and talks that empower residents to adopt more sustainable lifestyles.

The town is also home to the monthly Repair Café, a volunteer-led project that helps residents fix broken items, reducing waste and building community resilience. Meanwhile, the Chesterfield Crafters Bazaar brings together local artists and makers to buy and sell surplus materials, promoting reuse and collaboration across the creative sector.

These initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but also foster a vibrant, connected community, making Chesterfield an attractive place to live, work, and invest.

Let’s Celebrate Towns is now in its third year and showcases towns across the UK that are helping businesses and communities to thrive. The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the House of Lords on 16 July.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

One Derbyshire, two councils: have your say on the future of local government

30th June 2025

People across Derbyshire are being asked to have their say on how local council services are delivered in the future, as part of the biggest change to local government in 50 years.

A proposal drawn up by Derbyshire’s eight district and borough councils, together with Derby City Council, would see the 10 councils that provide services across the county replaced with two councils – one covering the north of the county, and one covering the south.

Now, people and organisations across Derbyshire are being asked for their views about the ‘One Derbyshire, two councils’ proposal as part of a public consultation running until 10 August 2025.

The decision to launch a local government reorganisation process was taken by central government, which wants to simplify how councils are organised across the whole of England and make them more efficient – reducing costs while delivering services that are better, and more joined-up.

The government asked local councils to work together to draw up initial proposals for their area and it is now time for local people to have their say, before proposals for Derbyshire are finalised and submitted to government later this year.

In a joint statement, the Leaders of Derbyshire’s eight district and borough councils, and city council, said: “The current structure of local government in Derbyshire dates back to 1974 and the way people live their lives has changed beyond recognition since then.

“Government has asked councils to work together to come up with plans which modernise and simplify council structures, so all services are run by single authorities and they’re easier for people, communities and businesses to deal with.

“Our proposal recognises that Derbyshire is a large county with differing needs – and in considering the options, we’ve put local people and places first.

“With one council covering southern Derbyshire and one covering northern Derbyshire, we believe we will have councils that are big enough to deliver efficient services, but close enough to listen and respond to the needs of our communities.

“We know local identity – at both a county and area level – is really important to people. The proposal for two councils will maintain our county’s historic border, including the city of Derby, which is a key centre of economic growth. And although the council boundaries will no longer exist in the way they do now, our communities and places will remain – that sense of belonging is about the people who make up a community, not lines on a map.

“We now want to hear from people and organisations across our communities. This is your chance to help shape how services will be delivered in your local area, and how your place fits into the wider plans for Derbyshire.”

In places like Derbyshire, local services are currently delivered under what is known as a ‘two-tier’ council structure.

This means that some services are delivered by a borough or district council, and others are provided by Derbyshire County Council. Within Derbyshire, there is also Derby City Council which is a ‘unitary’ council providing all services to the communities it serves.

Between them, these councils are responsible for a vast range of local services. The county council provides services like social care for children and adults, education and transport, while district and borough councils are responsible for services such as bin collections, planning, and leisure centres. Derby City Council provides all of these council services to the communities it serves.

Under the proposal, two new councils would be created, each responsible for delivering all services in their local area – one in the north and one in the south.

There are three possible options for how the area currently covered by Amber Valley Borough Council could be included in the new structure: placed entirely in the northern council, entirely in the southern council, or with different parishes joining each of the two councils, depending on where they may best fit.

Early forecasts* suggest that this new structure of local government in Derbyshire could save between £56m and £93m over five years, through reduced duplication of services, fewer council buildings, fewer councillors and senior officers, and being able to achieve better economies of scale when buying and delivering services. However, at this stage, the councils are rightfully cautious and careful in relation to financial projections, as there remains much to be assessed and understood as the local government reorganisation process progresses.

The Leaders added: “Our proposal also supports a strong Derbyshire for the future – creating councils which can develop more strategic approaches to economic development, regeneration and county-wide infrastructure, while working closely and more efficiently with the new East Midlands Mayor and East Midlands Combined County Authority, which guides large-scale investment across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.”

The views of people and organisations will feed into the development of final proposals, which must be considered by existing councils and submitted to Government by 28 November 2025.

Government will then review the proposals for Derbyshire and for twenty other county areas across England, before making final decisions in the Summer of 2026. If the Government accepts the proposals for Derbyshire, elections for the new shadow authorities would take place in 2027 and new councils would start to operate by April 2028.

To find out more about local government reorganisation in Derbyshire and give your views in the consultation, please visit and complete the online questionnaire.

The online questionnaire will take around 10 minutes to complete.

* Note: These figures are estimated using figures of similar Local Government Reorganisations. They do not take account of Derbyshire’s particular circumstances and are indicative only.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Record numbers celebrate Sparkle Night Walk’s 10th anniversary

30th June 2025

A record-breaking number of walkers stepped out to turn the streets of Chesterfield pink for the 10^th anniversary of Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk.

More than 3,500 supporters took on the annual 10km walk, sponsored by Magpie Beauty, which started and finished at Chesterfield Football Club’s stadium on Saturday 28 June.

This year’s event smashed the previous record of 3,404 participants set in 2024 as a total of 3,500 people turned out to walk for the hospice.

Walkers have already helped raise more than £280,000 to help fund Ashgate’s palliative and end of life care in North Derbyshire, and there’s still more to come, with donations open until the end of July.

Among those taking part was Nikki Saxton-Maud (38), who walked in memory of her mother-in-law Doreen (71), who died in May last year after receiving community care from Ashgate Hospice.

“They made her feel like the centre of the world,” said Nikki. “I know the nurses have lots of patients, but she was their focus.”

Nikki took part in the event alongside her daughters, Phoebe and Georgie, raising over £600 so far between them.

“We did it a few years ago when it was the Midnight Walk,” she added. “It’s grown a bit since then!”

The event saw participants enjoy live entertainment to kick off the party at 7pm before the walk started at 10pm. The first walkers started crossing the finish line at about 11.10pm.

The 10km route took walkers from the stadium down the A61 bypass, which was closed to traffic, past the Crooked Spire and through the streets of Chesterfield before returning to the football ground.

Charlotte Butterworth, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice said: “This year’s Sparkle Night Walk was extra special as we marked its 10th anniversary, and what a way to celebrate.

“We’ve been blown away by the support once again. Thousands turned out in pink, glitter and bunny ears to walk for someone important to them and raise money for local hospice care.

“Thank you to everyone who’s been with us over the years and helped make Sparkle what it is today. Whether you’ve done one walk or all 10, you’ve been part of the journey and we couldn’t do it without you.

Super early bird registration for next year’s event has opened at £10 per person, and more than 400 people have already signed up.

Entry will be available at a reduced rate until 31 August, with the walk set to take place on 27 June 2026.

To find out more about next year’s Sparkle Night Walk and to register for the super early bird price of £10 go to: www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk

The Sparkle Night Walk 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.

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