About Chesterfield

New Square reopens with fresh look ahead of Glow Up weekend

26th March 2026

Chesterfield’s New Square is officially open following a major transformation, creating a flexible, attractive space ready to welcome visitors ahead of Chesterfield Glow Up this weekend.

The redesigned square features new high-quality paving for improved accessibility, a modern parasol system for trader shelter, upgraded lighting and power for events, new planting for greenery, and stylish street furniture to encourage people to spend more time in the town centre.

The improvements allow New Square to host large-scale events while still accommodating market stalls on busy days.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“The transformation of our town centre has created new spaces for events, festivals and community gatherings, and we can’t wait to see people enjoying them this weekend.

“It’s also created a more attractive environment for our fantastic traders, helping to bring more customers into Chesterfield for many years to come. The Market is the heart of our town centre, and these wonderful public spaces will help ensure it remains one of the best in the country.

“We still have more work to do in Rykneld Square and on Corporation Street, but together these improvements will transform our town centre and create great spaces for residents and visitors alike.”

A small amount of finishing work remains in New Square, including a new bollard system and a feature timeline charting Chesterfield’s history, which will be completed next month by contractor Thomas Bow.

John Allen, Construction Director at Thomas Bow, said:

“We’re proud to have delivered this transformation of New Square, creating a high-quality, durable public space that will support Chesterfield’s market traders, events programme and wider town centre activity for years to come.

“Working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and local stakeholders, our team has focused on improving accessibility, flexibility and resilience, while ensuring the square remains welcoming and attractive for visitors.

“We look forward to seeing the space come to life during events like Chesterfield Glow Up and beyond.”

The wider Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project also includes Rykneld Square — which will become a greener, more welcoming space with views of the Crooked Spire following archaeological work — and Corporation Street, set to offer an enhanced gateway to the town centre later this year.

The project is funded through nearly £20 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, supporting both town centre regeneration and the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall.

More information is available by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/revitalising-heart-of-chesterfield

To discover more events happening within our town centre visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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

New chapter unveiled for Chesterfield’s historic theatre and museum

26th March 2026

Chesterfield’s landmark theatre and museum is preparing to reopen later this year following a multimillion-pound renovation – complete with a new name that marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the building’s long history.

Stephenson Memorial Hall, formerly home to the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, will relaunch as 1435 – a transformed cultural venue where people and stories come together.

The new name pays tribute to one of George Stephenson’s most significant innovations: the standard-gauge rail track. Set 1435mm apart, these rails became the international benchmark for travel, carrying people, ideas and opportunities around the world. That spirit of connection underpins the vision for 1435, which will welcome visitors through arts, culture and heritage while building new links across the community.

Railways reshaped the world – and Chesterfield – and this renewed venue now forms a central part of the council’s wider plans to regenerate the town centre. Designed to attract new audiences and create vibrant, accessible spaces, 1435 will serve local people for years to come.

The venue will feature a 625-seat theatre, an expanded museum with improved facilities for major touring exhibitions, two bars and flexible areas for people to meet. The striking redevelopment preserves the building’s heritage while significantly improving accessibility.

Owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, 1435 is set to welcome audiences later this year. The annual pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, will be the first major production to take to the new stage in December 2026, with further performances and museum exhibitions to be announced ahead of reopening.

The relaunch follows a multimillion-pound transformation of the Grade II-listed site and forms a key part of the council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project. This includes new paving, planting and lighting along Corporation Street, creating an attractive gateway to the venue.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“I am delighted to be able to share the fantastic news that the Stephenson Memorial Hall will be reopening later this year and will be welcoming guests for the pantomime season in December, with its multi-million-pound transformation complete and a new name to mark the next chapter of this building’s story.

“Throughout its life, this building has carried many names, each marking a new moment in its story.

“As it evolves again, it felt right to begin this next chapter with a new identity – one that looks forward while still honouring its past. 1435 does exactly that, celebrating one of Chesterfield’s most influential residents and paying tribute to the borough’s industrial heritage, while reflecting how this venue will connect our community.

“The transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall reimagines what this building can offer. With an expanded theatre, improved accessibility, new community spaces and our historic collection woven throughout the venue, we’re creating a truly distinctive experience in the heart of the town centre. It’s a place our residents can return to again and again, and one that will draw new visitors to Chesterfield.

“By bringing arts, culture and history together under one roof, 1435 will offer a richer, more immersive experience for everyone who walks through the doors.

“There will also be new spaces that will support events and can be used for education and community activities, so it really will be a place for everyone, and we can’t wait for audiences and visitors to discover it later this year.”

A new volunteering programme for Chesterfield Theatres and Museum is set to launch, giving local people the chance to be part of the next chapter in the venue’s story. Volunteers will play a key role in welcoming visitors and helping them get the most out of their experience.

The programme aims to strengthen the connection between the community and the newly transformed venue. Those who get involved will have the opportunity to meet new people, explore local history and theatre, and enjoy the wellbeing benefits that volunteering brings.

The project is being funded through a range of sources, including £1million from the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s capital grants programme.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

“I am delighted to support the renovation of this much-loved venue and look forward to visiting when it reopens.

“EMCCA’s commitment to our communities is about creating places where people feel proud to live, work, and visit, something the renewed 1435 will certainly support in Chesterfield.

“Cultural attractions are a cornerstone of our visitor economy and a vital driver of opportunity. We are proud to support them – helping showcase our region, attract visitors, and create jobs – so the benefits of growth are shared across our communities.”

Funding for the project includes £11 million of a £20 million grant awarded to Chesterfield Borough Council through the Levelling Up Fund.

Arts Council England has contributed over £600,000 which is being used for the new ventilation system and Changing Places toilet.

The additional funding required for the refurbishment has been provided by Chesterfield Borough Council which owns and manages the building.

Construction partner, G F Tomlinson, is leading the refurbishment on behalf of the council.

Andy Sewards, Chairman of G F Tomlinson, said:

“We are proud to be playing a key role in the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall into 1435, helping to bring new life to one of Chesterfield’s most important historic buildings. This has been both a complex and rewarding project, balancing the preservation of the building’s heritage with the delivery of modern, high-quality facilities that will serve the community for generations to come. Working in close partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council and the wider project team, we are creating a vibrant, accessible and future-ready venue that will support arts, culture and community activity in the town centre.”

To find out more about 1435 and look at upcoming events, visit: chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk

To find more upcoming events, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

£4 million secured for multi‑year housing decarbonisation programme

26th March 2026

More than £4 million is set to be invested to help improve the energy efficiency of homes across Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Borough Council has been successful in securing funding through the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 and the Warm Homes Local Grant (WHLG), via the Midlands Net Zero Energy Hub consortium, enabling a three‑year decarbonisation project that will see upgrades made to homes across the borough.

The funding will support a wide range of energy-efficient improvements that enhance comfort, reduce energy use for council tenants and homeowners, as well as helping make homes more affordable to run in the long term.

Of the total funding awarded to the council, £3.3 million has been secured via the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 scheme and will be invested into making energy‑efficiency upgrades to council’s existing housing stock.

Work will include the installation of solar panels, air source heat pumps, loft insulation, heating controls and ventilation upgrades – all of which will help tenants reduce their energy bills and lower their carbon footprint.

The council will contact tenants directly to let them know if work is scheduled for their home.

A further £1.1 million of funding has been secured through the Warm Homes Local Grant (WHLG) scheme and is available to eligible homeowners and private landlords to make improvements to their homes.

To be eligible for funding through the Warm Homes Local Grant (WHLG) residents must be an owner-occupier or a private landlord, have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G, and meet one of three measures set out by government. More details on eligibility for private properties can be found at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/warm-homes

RE:GEN Yorkshire and East Midlands have been appointed by the council to deliver the project, building on an established partnership between the two organisations that includes the successful delivery of other housing improvement programmes.

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and environment, said: “With the funding we’ve secured through both the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3, and the Warm Homes Local Grant, we can ensure that both council tenants and homeowners across the borough feel the benefits of energy efficient improvements as they contribute towards warmer homes and lower energy bills. It’s an investment not just in buildings, but in the wellbeing and comfort of our residents.

“This three-year decarbonisation project marks an important step in our commitment to becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2050, as we work to improve the energy efficiency of homes right across the area.

“I’m looking forward to working with RE:GEN again and seeing this project take shape over the next three years.”

Chesterfield Champions, RE:GEN will be the main partner delivering the project across Chesterfield, overseeing everything from the initial checks and planning, right through to installation, resident support, and aftercare.

Tom Nicholson, Commercial Director at RE:GEN Yorkshire & East Midlands, said: “This is a huge opportunity for us at RE:GEN to bring our forward-thinking regeneration expertise to Chesterfield. We’re incredibly proud of our growing partnership and look forward to doing our part to create more sustainable communities and deliver solutions that will make a real difference for generations to come.”

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

Excitement as new Chesterfield Business Awards launches

25th March 2026

A brand new celebration of Chesterfield’s commercial success is set to debut this summer, as our town’s newest business awards officially launches, recognising the innovation, resilience and achievements of organisations across North Derbyshire.

The Chesterfield Business Awards, sponsored by accountancy firm SMH Mitchells, are open to businesses within the Chesterfield Borough, with organisers inviting companies of all sizes and sectors to put themselves forward for recognition.

The inaugural awards ceremony and dinner will take place on Wednesday 1 July at Casa Hotel, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals for an evening dedicated to celebrating success across categories including growth and enterprise, customer service, international trade and community impact.

Dom Stevens, Head of Destination Chesterfield will be one of the judges. Dom said:

“I’m delighted to be part of the judging panel for these new awards, which provide a fresh opportunity to recognise the breadth of talent, innovation and ambition we have here in Chesterfield. Our business community continues to achieve remarkable things, and I’m looking forward to learning more about the fantastic organisations contributing to the town’s growth and success throughout the judging process.”

Organiser Chrissie Rowell of Black Hare Marketing and Events said the awards have been created in partnership with local Chesterfield experts to shine a light on the town’s business community and provide a platform to recognise those making a significant contribution locally.

“Chesterfield is a thriving business community and we’ve had huge support for the awards already, it’s great to be giving Chesterfield some well deserved spotlight of its own,” she said. “We’re also pleased to be supporting a local cause and this year we’ve partnered with Chesterfield Animal Rescue and will be donating £5 from every ticket sale to them, as well as fundraising proceeds from the evening itself.”

She also confirmed the event will support local charity Chesterfield Animal Rescue, with £5 from every ticket sale being donated, alongside additional fundraising on the night.

Entries will be judged by a panel of experts from Chesterfield, who are passionate about the success of the town.

Award winners will be announced during a gala dinner featuring networking opportunities, entertainment and a formal awards presentation.

Please visit www.chesterfieldbusinessawards.co.uk for more information including details on the awards’ nominated charity and the ethics and transparency statement.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Chesterfield businesses win big at 2026 Tourism Awards

24th March 2026

Our region’s outstanding tourism businesses took centre-stage last week as the winners of the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards and the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards were announced at a glittering joint awards ceremony.

Finalists were recognised across 35 award categories, spanning hotels, B&Bs, attractions, pubs, cafés, unique visitor experiences and unsung heroes, showcasing the very best of the local tourism industry.

And there was particular success for Chesterfield and our surrounding area, with a number of local businesses and Chesterfield Champions among those recognised on the night.

In the Festival or Event of the Year category, Celebrating Jane Austen at Chatsworth took Gold, while Chesterfield businesses made their mark across several key categories. The Tickled Trout was awarded Gold for Pub of the Year, and Peak Edge Hotel also secured Gold in the Hotel of the Year category.

Food and drink businesses performed strongly too, with Hackney House Café and Deli awarded Gold in the Café and Tearoom category, while Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge Hotel received Silver in the Restaurant of the Year category.

Nominees progressed through a rigorous judging process – including mystery visits and independent expert assessment – before gathering at the ceremony, where Gold, Silver and Bronze winners were announced.

The prestigious event was held at Pride Park Stadium and brought together over 380 guests including industry leaders, innovators and rising stars for a night of recognition and celebration during English Tourism Week (13–22 March).

The region’s two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) – Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby – joined forces to deliver the awards ceremony in partnership for the second year, highlighting the sector’s vital £5.25bn contribution to the East Midlands economy.

The awards were held in partnership with VisitEngland, and Gold winners in each core category will now have the opportunity to represent the region at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in June 2026.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards provide an inspiring moment to come together and celebrate the passion, innovation and dedication that drive our visitor economy forward. This event is more than an awards ceremony – it’s a showcase of the remarkable businesses, individuals and experiences that contribute £3.58bn in economic value to the local economy.

“By uniting finalists, partners and champions of tourism in the East Midlands under one roof, we’re able to highlight the strength of collaboration in delivering exceptional experiences, boosting local pride and contributing significantly to our economic growth. Congratulations to our worthy winners!”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

“The East Midlands Tourism Awards showcase the places and experiences that make our region so special.

“I’m proud to congratulate all of this year’s winners and finalists who are helping to make the East Midlands a destination of choice. Their hard work, creativity and passion not only attract visitors from far and wide, but also support local jobs, businesses and communities.

“Together we are building a stronger visitor economy and making the East Midlands an even better place to live, work and visit.”

For the full list of winners from the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Awards please visit: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/events/category/tourism-awards

For the full list of winners from the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards please visit: https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/nottinghamshire-tourism-awards/2026-nottinghamshire-tourism-awards-winners

The awards are proudly sponsored by Derbyshire County Football Club, Voltshare, East Midlands Airport, North Notts BID, Fancy Entertainment and Luxbooth.

Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards: The 2026 Winners

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award:

· Hoe Grange Holidays – Gold

· The Cupola – Silver

· Peak Edge Hotel – Bronze

B&B and Guest House of the Year:

· The Bulls Head, Foolow – Gold

· The Dragon, Willington – Silver

· The Boot, Repton – Bronze

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year:

· Sandybrook Lodges – Gold

· Hartington Hills – Silver

· Rivendale Lodge Retreat – Bronze

Dog Friendly Business of the Year:

· Rivendale Lodge Retreat – Gold

· Bike & Boot Inns Peak District – Silver

· Thornbridge Estate – Bronze

Experience of the Year:

· Peak Walking Adventures – Gold

· PeakePedals Ltd – Silver

· Buxton Pottery Painting – Bronze

Family Friendly Business of the Year:

· The Children’s Country House at Sudbury – Gold

· Bluebell Dairy Ltd – Silver

· Thornbridge Estate – Bronze

Festival or Event of the Year:

· Celebrating Jane Austen at Chatsworth – Gold

· Buxton Georgian Festival – Silver

· Alstom presents The Greatest Gathering – Bronze

Hotel of the Year:

· Peak Edge Hotel – Gold

· The Peacock at Rowsley – Silver

· Morley Hayes – Bronze

New Tourism Business of the Year:

· Langley Meadows – Gold

· Wild & Other – Silver

· The Torr Vale Tap – Bronze

Pub of the Year:

· The Tickled Trout, Barlow – Gold

· The Boot, Repton – Silver

· The Blind Bull – Bronze

Regenerative Tourism Award:

· Hoe Grange Holidays – Gold

· Wild & Other – Silver

· Morley Hayes – Bronze

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year:

· Darley House, nr Matlock – Gold

· Brosterfield Farm, Foolow – Silver

· The Cupola, Stoney Middleton – Bronze

Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award – Cafes and Tearooms:

· Hackney House Café and Deli, Barlow – Gold

· The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, Bakewell – Silver

· On the Bridge, New Mills – Bronze

Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award – Restaurants:

· The Garden Room at Wildhive Callow Hall – Gold

· Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge Hotel – Silver

· The Peacock at Rowsley – Bronze

Team of the Year Award:

· Buxton Opera House Volunteers – Gold

· Arkwright Society, Cromford Mills – Silver

· The Wheatsheaf Pub & Pantry, Bakewell – Bronze

Tourism Young Achiever Award:

· Grace Medhurst, Yorkshire Bridge Inn – Gold

· Dylan Torr, Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust – Silver

· Melissa Collins, Bluebell Dairy – Bronze

Unsung Hero Award:

· Vivienne Smith, The National Stone Centre – Gold

· David Brown, Hoe Grange Holidays – Silver

· Jamie Parker, The Cupola Café-Bar-Pizza-Grill – Bronze

Visitor Attraction of the Year:

· Denby Pottery Village – Gold

· Bluebell Dairy Ltd – Silver

· National Trust – Calke Abbey – Bronze

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

Accessible luxury holiday home opens near town centre

19th March 2026

Havendale, a new accessible holiday let within walking distance of our town centre, has been opened by Chesterfield Champion and AccessibleUK director Gillian Scotford.

Owners Gillian and Russell Scotford spent two years renovating the property, describing it as a “labour of love” created in memory of their son, Thomas. The aim was simple: To create the kind of accessible luxury they had always wanted, but never found.

As parents of three children, two with severe disabilities, their lived experience has shaped every decision. Years spent searching for suitable accommodation highlighted a gap in the market lead them to create Havendale here in our town.

The bungalow, built from Derbyshire stone, has been architecturally designed with light-filled spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and roof lights. Inside, there are four bedrooms with Adjustamatic beds and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, complete with a woodburning stove.

Accessibility has been carefully considered throughout, while recognising that no property can meet every need. Features include pull-down kitchen cabinets, sensory lighting and level access to the garden through wide bifold doors.

The enclosed south-facing garden includes a patio, lawn and barbecue area, offering a quiet space to relax.

Gillian’s background in accessibility spans more than a decade. She founded Accessible Derbyshire in 2012, helping to fund equipment such as all-terrain wheelchairs, sailing boats and climbing harnesses. Through her work with AccessibleUK, she collaborates with organisations including National Trust, Royal Parks and VisitEngland.

Guidance from VisitEngland’s Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Toolkit was used during the renovation, with the aim of meeting the needs of the UK’s 16.8 million disabled people, along with their families and carers.

With one in four households having access requirements, and many trips taken by multi-generational families, the need for inclusive places to stay continues to grow.

The owners say they understand the challenges that can come with travelling with guests who have access requirements, and want Havendale to offer a proper break. They said they want every guest, family member and carer to be able to relax with dignity, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

For availability and to book Havendale, visit: www.sykescottages.co.uk

To discover a range of accommodation in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/accommodation/

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

Culture and community at the forefront of Chesterfield’s vision for the future

18th March 2026

Chesterfield’s vibrant cultural identity and the community impact of ongoing regeneration took centre stage at this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield conference.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and supported by Vines Legal and Stepnell, the event highlighted how culture, creativity and placemaking are becoming core drivers in the town’s long-term economic strategy.

Emily Bowman, Managing Director at Junction Arts, showcased Chesterfield’s expanding creative programme, demonstrating how local arts, events and heritage initiatives are boosting wellbeing, attracting new visitors and driving footfall into the town centre.

Emily also outlined the borough’s ambition to become a Town of Culture, as part of its wider cultural strategy. If successful, the ambition is that the programme is led by the community working in partnership and with support from the Pride in Place Town Board and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“Chesterfield’s ambition to become Town of Culture is an exciting moment for our borough. It gives us a platform to celebrate who we are: our heritage, our creativity and our people, and to showcase the cultural energy across the borough.”

The conference also highlighted how regeneration continues to reshape the borough, with Chesterfield now benefiting from a £2 billion investment pipeline. Chesterfield Borough Council Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, who retires in May, reflected on eighteen years of place-led leadership and stressed the importance of long-term partnership in achieving regeneration milestones.

Further demonstrating the power of local collaboration, Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, shared how Town Deal projects are already supporting communities, with a new video showing the benefits beginning to be felt across Staveley.

A panel featuring Vines Legal, Stepnell and Chesterfield College Group explored the role businesses play in delivering social value, showing how employers are boosting skills, apprenticeships, volunteering and local supply chains to ensure residents actively benefit from the borough’s growth.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“At Celebrate Chesterfield, we have not just talked about ambition. We have heard real stories of impact. The public, private and community sectors are working together to support the economy and people of Chesterfield.”

Delegates also received a copy of this year’s Chesterfield Storybook, a publication capturing the town’s achievements and future vision. A digital version is available at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/celebrate/chesterfield-storybook/

The event was accompanied by the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Expo, sponsored by East Midlands Chamber, where local businesses showcased their work and built new connections. The exhibition highlighted the strength and diversity of Chesterfield’s business community.

Discover more about what is happening in Chesterfield at www.chesterfield.co.uk.

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

New ‘makers’ space opens in town centre

17th March 2026

An exciting new ‘makers’ space has opened in the heart of our town centre, offering local people a place to unleash their creativity.

Chesterfield Champions, Junction Arts is one of the UK’s longest-established community arts charities, and has taken over a previously disused building on Station Road, transforming it into a dynamic hub featuring studios, workshops, and collaborative work areas for creators, makers, and innovators.

Sections of the building are being sublet to local artists and creative businesses, helping to establish a thriving space where their work can flourish.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“We’re delighted to see this disused building brought back into use in such a positive and creative way. The site is now becoming a home for creative businesses, aligning with the council’s vision to expand the area’s growing creative sector.

“Junction Arts has a long and proud history of working with local communities, and this new space will give residents even more opportunities to learn new skills, collaborate, and express themselves.”

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman, said:

“The new space has given us an amazing opportunity to bring together the town’s vibrant creative community, fostering collaboration, co-creation and shared growth. The scale and potential of the new building will allow us to support and strengthen the existing community, while inspiring the next generation of artists and creative businesses.

“This opportunity comes at a particularly significant moment for Junction Arts as we celebrate our 50th anniversary and reflect on the powerful role the arts play in shaping strong, connected communities. Over the next few years, we will develop the space as a hub for creativity, offering workshops and meeting facilities for the arts community and beyond.

“We are excited to begin this next chapter and look forward to welcoming more people to be part of this creative space.”

Current artists and creative businesses that have moved into the building with Junction Arts include writer Annie Littlewood, Sombrero Printmaking, Guitar Technician and Luthier Chris Sheldon, 13 Bends Design, community artist Lucie Maycock, weaver Anna Piper, Growth Activities, Defeye Creative, S40 and S41 Magazine, musician Neil Piper and Kakou Technologies.

Junction Arts is a charity and National Portfolio Organisation, supported using public funding by Arts Council England. To find out more, visit: junctionarts.org

Junction Arts is one of over 200 local champions helping to promote Chesterfield as a place to work, learn, and visit. For more information, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

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

Chesterfield fire safety firm secures permanent base with headquarters purchase

16th March 2026

JP Fire Safety Solutions has secured a permanent home in Chesterfield after completing the purchase of its headquarters on Beresford Way in Newbold.

The company, which has operated from the premises for the past four years, has now cemented a permanent base to support its growing business, as demand for fire safety services continues to rise in the wake of post-Grenfell legislation and regulatory changes.

The purchase was supported by property law specialist Mason Thomas Law, which also acted for the company when it first secured the lease on the building in 2022.

Managing director John Priest, who established JP Fire Safety Solutions 11 years ago, said purchasing the property had always been part of the long-term plan. He said:

“We always intended to buy the building next year, but when the landlord decided to sell earlier than expected, we took the opportunity. With a year still left on the lease, we were able to move quickly and secure the premises.”

The acquisition creates a permanent home for the business, which has grown from two employees to eight over the past four years and is forecasting continued growth as regulatory requirements around fire safety tighten.

“The last four years have been about building the business properly, investing in people, systems and the right environment,” added John. “Owning the building gives us long-term security and the flexibility to grow.”

The Beresford Way site includes offices, a ground-floor trade counter, a 16-seat training room and breakout facilities for staff. JP Fire Safety Solutions has already invested in internal improvements, including a new kitchen and meeting space, and plans to install solar panels as part of its sustainability ambitions. The building also offers scope for future expansion.

John, who previously worked in the public sector as a fire safety specialist, said people development remains central to the company’s growth. The business currently has a 50/50 male-female workforce split, a deliberate decision in what has traditionally been a male-dominated sector.

“Fire safety needs a diverse, well-trained workforce,” he said. “We are committed to training and upskilling our team so we can continue to deliver the highest standards for our clients.”

Delighted that John chose to return to Mason Thomas Law for the property purchase, Jo Malcolm, Licensed Conveyancer and Director of Mason Thomas Law said: “We were really pleased to support John again with the acquisition of the business premises. It was a transaction made even more rewarding seeing how JP Fire Safety Solutions has flourished in the four years since we originally acted on the lease.”

To discover more recent investments happening in and around the region, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Manufacturing

Construction Skills Hub Wins Prestigious National Award

13th March 2026

Chesterfield Champion, Chesterfield College has been awarded a prestigious national Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Award for the Construction Skills Hub based at Mastin Moor, praising the innovative and effective approach it has taken towards developing skills for careers in the construction sector.

In winning the AoC Beacon Award for Excellence in Real World Learning (sponsored by The Edge Foundation), the Construction Skills Hub was praised for the transformative impact it has on the students and community it supports and the innovative approach to its curriculum. Aligned with industry needs, the curriculum includes sustainability and the Future Homes Standard to ensure students gain relevant skills, confidence, and clear progression pathways into the construction workforce.

Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the Department for Education and Chesterfield College, the Hub is run in partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, and the Devonshire Group.

The Hub launched in October 2023, based on a live housing development and replicates a real construction site, complete with site offices, toolbox talks, and site tours, offering students an immersive, hands-on experience that reflects industry standards.

The Hub provides students with trade-based skills and qualifications in skills such as groundworks, brickwork, joinery, retrofit and green technologies, all delivered on a live construction site. This allows students to gain the experience needed to access careers in the sector.

Many students benefiting from the Hub were at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training). The practical, outdoor learning environment has proven transformative, with 95% achieving a qualification and 97% progressing to a positive destination.

The Hub works with schools, engaging over 900 students through its careers insight programme. This initiative allows young people to explore construction careers, meet employers, and make informed post-16 choices. Over the next decade, the Hub will support more than 5,000 students, from school leavers to adults seeking to retrain.

Over ten years, the Hub aims to provide careers insights, training and work experience for over 5,000 students.

Chesterfield College Principal and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Julie Richards OBE, said:

“I’m absolutely delighted that our Construction Skills Hub has won such a prestigious national award. It is testament to the incredible hard work of the staff and partners who together have made this unique project such an amazing success securing positive career pathways for the next generation of construction workers. Projects such as this are at the core of how we support and develop local people. Working directly with key employers, the Hub is supporting students to develop the skills required to meet the ever-increasing demand from within the construction industry. As a member of the Staveley Town Deal Board, I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area for years to come.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“The Construction Skills Hub offers a truly unique approach to learning and does a fantastic job in helping prepare students to build a great career in our borough and I want to congratulate everyone who has contributed to its success. It is a key part of the Staveley Town Deal and it’s a great example of how investment in Staveley can give people a fantastic start and that they can stay and realise their potential. The Hub also demonstrates that by working in partnership across the public, private and education sectors, we can deliver better outcomes for our residents and achieve more. From speaking with students at the Hub, I know how much of an impact this project has had and the fantastic staff at the Hub deserve this recognition for the work that they do.”

The prestigious Beacon Awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK further education (FE) colleges. The aim of the awards programme is to demonstrate and promote the far-reaching impact of colleges on their students and the communities they serve.

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub and the training opportunities available visit: www.chesterfield.ac.uk/csh

To learn more on the Staveley Town Deal projects, visit: www.chesterfield.co.ukstaveley-town-deal-projects

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

Awards round-up: East Midlands achievements spotlighted

12th March 2026

Our region is in the spotlight as Chesterfield Champions are recognised with top awards. From students showcasing next-generation skills, to care homes earning regional acclaim, to firms championing professional development, and engineering projects celebrating our heritage, these stories highlight the very best our area has to offer.

Chesterfield College hosts Skillsfest honouring rising stars

On March 4, Chesterfield College proudly hosted the inaugural Skillsfest annual inter-college competition at its Infirmary Road Campus.

With more than 200 students from three colleges across the region taking part, the event saw competitors demonstrate their talents across 25 disciplines. The competition took place during Colleges Week, a national celebration of further education.

Students from Chesterfield College competed alongside those from Derby College and Burton and South Derbyshire College, with a medal and trophy ceremony held at the end of the day to recognise the winners. Chesterfield students secured first place in a number of categories, including brickwork, joinery, construction multi-skills, fabrication and welding, mechanical engineering, milling, hairdressing, art and design, games design and health.

After scores from all categories were combined, Chesterfield College was also named overall winner of the competition. All competitors demonstrated talent, commitment and teamwork throughout the day, creating an atmosphere of collaboration while showcasing the strength of further education across the region.

Julie Richards OBE, Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College Group, said:

“To host the first ever competition of this annual Skillsfest is a massive honour and I’m delighted, not just with how well today has gone, but also with how well each competitor has represented their college, they really are testament to the amazing further education sector.

To see so many unbelievable skills from the next generation on display all at once was something to behold and is so inspiring to see the upcoming talent pool in every sector.”

www.chesterfield.ac.uk

Chesterfield Care Home has been recognised among the East Midlands’ top-rated care homes

Belvedere House has been named among the Top 20 Care Homes in the East Midlands by Carehome.co.uk, based on reviews from residents and their families.

Each year, Carehome.co.uk recognises the highest-rated care homes across the UK, highlighting services that demonstrate exceptional standards of care, resident satisfaction and positive community impact. For Belvedere House, this recognition reflects not only excellence in care delivery but also the strength of its relationships with residents, families and the wider local community, a significant achievement that showcases the dedication, compassion and professionalism of the entire team.

Deputy Manager Claire Adsetts said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this Top 20 Regional Care Home award”

Kerry Smith, Regional Manager at Crown Care Group, said: “We are immensely proud of the team at Belvedere House and achieving this Top 20 recognition demonstrates the team’s professionalism, compassion, and commitment to continuous improvement. It is a well-earned achievement. As Belvedere House celebrates this milestone, the focus remains firmly on continuing to enhance services, invest in staff development, and strengthen its role within the East Midlands and Derbyshire community”

The award places the Chesterfield care home among the highest-rated facilities in the region, based on feedback from those who know the service best, residents and their loved ones.

crowncaregroup.co.uk

Accountancy and Tax Advisory firm awarded Gold Employer Partner accreditation from STEP

Derbyshire and South Yorkshire–based accountancy and tax advisory firm, Shorts, has been awarded STEP Gold Employer Partner accreditation within STEP’s Employer Partnership Programme. This gold status recognises the strength of Shorts’ policies, practices, and structures supporting its growing Private Client offering.

To achieve Gold, organisations must demonstrate a strong culture of learning and development, alongside a positive work environment. STEP highlighted Shorts’ values-led approach, robust L&D governance, and best-in-class development support.

Lana Reid, Learning and Development Manager at Shorts, said:

“We are delighted to achieve STEP Gold Employer Partner accreditation; an important milestone for Shorts which reflects our ongoing commitment to learning, development and professional excellence. Recognition from STEP reinforces the quality of the learning opportunities we provide and the culture we have built around continuous improvement, collaboration and progression, helping our professionals be the very best they can be in their chosen career.”

www.shorts.uk.com

BSP Consulting takes home tourism project award

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering specialists BSP Consulting are celebrating award success after the statue it designed commemorating the Lancaster Bomber won the Tourism and Leisure Project of the Year category at the Greater Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards 2026.

The life-size statue of a Lancaster Bomber, called On Freedom’s Wings, has been created to honour the Royal Air Force crews of World War II and Lincolnshire’s and Nottinghamshire’s aviation heritage.

Standing at 29 metres high, the art installation near the county border gives the impression that the Lancaster Bomber is in flight and heading home to RAF Swinderby, a former RAF station. Dubbed the ‘East Midlands’ Angel of the North’, it has already attracted global interest since it was unveiled in September 2025.

BSP Consulting’s structural engineers undertook the design work on the impressive monument on behalf of the Bomber County Gateway Trust. BSP Managing Director Carl Hilton said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that On Freedom’s Wings was announced as a winner at the Greater Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards 2026.”

www.bsp-consulting.co.uk

To keep up to date with what’s happening in locally, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/news

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Heritage, Home, Manufacturing, Skills