Business

New Local Plan to be prepared for Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council has launched a consultation to support the development of a new Local Plan for the borough with residents and local businesses being invited to have their say.

The Local Plan is a crucial part of the planning process and sets out how many homes and commercial properties will be built, and where. This aims to ensure that new development is sustainable and supports local economic growth without negatively impacting upon people’s health and wellbeing or the environment.

The consultation is open from 15 June until 12 July so that residents and businesses can share their key priorities and influence what will be incorporated into the draft Local Plan.

A Call for Sites is also running alongside this consultation to allow people to suggest sites for development and other uses.
The new Local Plan will set out where development should happen over the next fifteen years and identify how infrastructure, including school places, GP surgeries, leisure facilities, roads, and green spaces, can be provided to meet the needs of both existing and new residents.

Chesterfield Borough Council started preparing a new Local Plan last year, but the process has restarted due to the introduction of a new system for preparing Local Plans in March of this year. Any sites submitted as part of last year’s Call for Sites will still be considered, so there is no need to resubmit them.

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and environment, said: “This is the first step in creating a new Local Plan that reflects the needs and ambitions of our residents. We want to hear from people to ensure that we can prepare a plan which ensures that development takes place in the right place, that we provide the infrastructure needed to support our communities and we can protect the environment.

“The Local Plan will help guide planning decisions for the next 20 years and sets out policies that developers must follow. This is an important document, and we want to ensure that the views of local people help shape this plan.”

A timetable outlining the key stages of the new plan, along with the notice confirming the start of the process, can be viewed online at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-policy-and-the-local-plan.

As well as setting out where development should happen, the Local Plan will also include policies which will help guide the planning process. And it plays a key role in tackling the climate emergency by guiding the transition to a low-carbon society, mitigating climate change and improving biodiversity across the borough.

Councillor Martin Stone said: “We are aiming to become a carbon-neutral borough by 2050, and the Local Plan will play a key part in ensuring that we can meet this target. Your feedback can help ensure we include policies and identify ways to support nature, improve biodiversity and encourage housing to be more efficient and produce less emissions. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to play your part in helping tackle climate change here in Chesterfield.”

The Local Plan consultation and Call for Sites are open until 12 July. You can take part by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-policy-and-the-local-plan/new-local-plan-2025-to-2044

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

Chesterfield Champions unite to deliver vital support for local communities

Chesterfield Champions are continuing to make meaningful differences, supporting local hospice care, championing mental health and wellbeing, and raising funds for community causes through a range of initiatives.

Banner Jones renews Sparkle Night Walk support

Banner Jones sponsor Sparkle Night Walk

Banner Jones Solicitors has reaffirmed its commitment to the local community by returning as official medal sponsor for Sparkle Night Walk and taking part in the event for a sixth year.

The Sparkle Night Walk returns on Saturday, 27th June 2026, marking the 11th anniversary of the popular fundraising event, which sees thousands of people walk through Chesterfield in glitter and pink to raise funds for end of life care across North Derbyshire.

Banner Jones staff will once again join the walk, continuing a long-standing involvement that has seen the firm raise more than £4,000 for Ashgate Hospice through previous participation.

Alongside taking part, the firm is continuing its sponsorship of the event medals for a second consecutive year, helping to support the delivery of the event while raising awareness of the hospice’s vital services.

Ashgate Hospice provides free, compassionate care for adults in North Derbyshire living with life-limiting or incurable illnesses, including cancer and neurological conditions. Its specialist teams offer palliative and end of life care, as well as practical and emotional support for patients and their families.

Lynne Pope, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones, said:

“We are proud to continue supporting Ashgate Hospice by sponsoring the Sparkle Night Walk medals for a second year. It’s a cause that means a great deal to many of us, and it’s inspiring to see the community come together year after year to support the incredible work carried out by Ashgate Hospice.

James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, added:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Banner Jones for returning as our medal sponsor for the 2026 Sparkle Night Walk, as well as taking part in the event once again. Their continued generosity and support will help fund care for the people who need us now and in the future.”

OxyClinic highlights community support for men’s mental health

OxyClinic

OxyClinic is highlighting the importance of community connection and mental wellbeing through its support for Chesterfield-based charity Andy’s Man Club, which provides free peer-to-peer support groups for men across the UK.

The organisation’s Operations Manager, Gary West, also volunteers as a facilitator for Andy’s Man Club in Chesterfield, helping to create a safe and supportive space where men can talk openly about mental health and life’s challenges.

With Men’s Mental Health Week taking place throughout the week (Monday, 15th June to Friday, 21st June) OxyClinic is using the moment to shine a light on the importance of volunteering and community support in improving mental wellbeing and reducing isolation.

Andy’s Man Club provides non-judgmental spaces where men are encouraged to talk openly, helping to break down stigma and remind people they are not alone. OxyClinic says volunteering and supporting organisations like this can have a positive impact not only on those receiving support, but also on those giving their time, with benefits including improved confidence, purpose and social connection.

Beth Adamson, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at OxyClinic, said:

“True wellbeing comes from taking a holistic approach, and human connection remains one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, attending a support group, or volunteering time to help others, small actions can have a lasting impact.”

Local hospice and Chesterfield law firm launch Wills Month campaign

BRM team

BRM has partnered with Blythe House Hospice to offer professional Will-writing services throughout July in return for a voluntary donation to the charity.

Funds raised will support Blythe House Hospice’s care for people affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses across the High Peak, Hope Valley, Derbyshire Dales, Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire.

As part of the campaign, BRM’s Will-writing experts will be available to individuals and couples looking to put a Will in place. The suggested minimum donation is £75 for a single Will and £150 for a mirror Will.

The initiative continues a long-standing partnership between the two organisations. In 2025, the campaign raised £7,400, contributing to a total of more than £76,000 raised since 2017.

Blythe House Hospice provides a wide range of services to support patients and their families, including Hospice at Home care, an overnight roaming service, therapies, counselling, and specialist nursing.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said:

“We’re delighted to support Blythe House Hospice through our annual Wills Month once again this year, continuing a partnership that has been running since 2017.

“As a local business, we know many families in our communities who have benefitted from the hospice’s vital services. Their support allows patients to remain at home where possible, while receiving high-quality care.”

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, added:

“We’re proud to have helped raise more than £76,000 for Blythe House Hospice so far. It shows what can be achieved when our community comes together.

“This campaign provides a valuable opportunity for people to ensure their affairs are in order while also supporting an important local charity.”

Banner Jones Solicitors, OxyClinic and BRM are a few 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

Construction Skills Hub expansion creates new training opportunities in Chesterfield

The Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor has expanded with new classrooms and funding, creating 45 additional training places to support skills development in Chesterfield’s growing construction sector.

Expanding skills provision for local people

The Construction Skills Hub, based in Mastin Moor, has strengthened its offer with the addition of two new classroom spaces, enabling a further 45 learners to access industry-focused training.

Primarily funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the expansion has been made possible thanks to additional investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), supporting Chesterfield’s ambition to build a highly skilled workforce for the future.

Over the next decade, the Hub is expected to support more than 5,000 learners, from school pupils exploring career options to adults looking to retrain or upskill. The facility provides hands-on training alongside careers insight and work experience opportunities, ensuring learners are prepared for real-world employment.

Supporting a growing sector

Since launching, the Hub has already supported more than 150 students across a range of trades including groundworks, bricklaying, electrical, plumbing and site joinery. In addition, degree-level apprenticeships are available in construction management, quantity surveying and civil engineering.

The hub’s employer-led approach continues to deliver strong results, with 69% of learners progressing into construction roles – significantly higher than the national average of 23% for construction-based college learners.

New classroom space will allow the introduction of adult skills courses and targeted bootcamps, helping to address skills shortages and provide pathways into employment. An additional student support cabin has also been installed to accommodate increased staffing and learner demand.

Close up of hands and tools at Construction Skills Hub

Partnership driving impact

The initiative is delivered through a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College and the University of Derby, located at the heart of the Devonshire Group’s development site in Mastin Moor.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said:
“The Construction Skills Hub is a fantastic example of how the public, education and private sectors can work together to create training opportunities for local people that will allow them to benefit from a growing local economy. This additional funding will help expand the number of students at the hub and ensure more local people can benefit from this innovative approach to training so that they gain the right skills so they can grasp the opportunities available in a growing construction sector.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, added:
“Investing in skills is essential to driving growth across the East Midlands and the Construction Skills Hub shows how high-quality training can help people move into good local jobs.

“Funding support means the Hub can expand, giving more residents the chance to gain the practical, in-demand skills employers need.

“By backing initiatives like this, we’re helping people progress while building the workforce needed to deliver new homes, infrastructure and regeneration across our region”

The latest £108,000 investment from the East Midlands Combined County Authority, secured through the UKSPF, reinforces the Hub’s role in supporting regional growth, helping to deliver the workforce needed for new homes, infrastructure and regeneration projects.

Find out more about skills, training and business support in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/ 

Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby and Devonshire Group are all part 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 becoming a Chesterfield Champion and supporting local growth.

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

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

University of Derby named UK’s top university in 2027 student rankings

The University of Derby has been named UK University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, based on reviews from more than 24,000 students across the country.

The university climbed six places to secure the top position in the 2027 league table, which evaluated 323 institutions across the UK. It also ranked first for employability, second for accommodation and second for course quality.

Building on this success, it is expanding its presence in Chesterfield, with new courses at its St Helena Campus in business, sport and nursing, including foundation year routes, to support local skills and future workforce needs.

The results highlight the institution’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong career outcomes for students.

A total of 97% of students who submitted reviews said they would recommend the university to a friend, reflecting consistently high levels of student satisfaction.

The Uni Compare rankings are based on independent data and feedback from current and former students, assessing key aspects of university life including accommodation, course quality, employability and social experience. The rankings aim to give prospective students a clear and honest comparison of institutions ahead of starting university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“To be named the UK’s best university by students is an exceptional achievement and one we are immensely proud of because it comes directly from those who know us best.

“This recognition demonstrates the value students place on their experience at Derby and the increased social capital they gain. That is one of the strongest endorsements any university can receive.”

The university delivers teaching excellence through an industry-focused approach, with courses ranging from foundation level to postgraduate study and research.

It has further strengthened its links with business and industry through the launch of its Chancellor’s Entrepreneurs’ Club, delivered in collaboration with entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and the university’s Chancellor William Cavendish, Chair of the Devonshire Group. The initiative gives students direct access to influential business leaders and mentors.

Students also benefit from links with leading global organisations, including Google, Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and the NHS.

To find out more about learning and higher education opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-training-opportunities/

The University of Derby and Devonshire Group 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 Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

How volunteers are shaping Chesterfield’s communities

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield Champions celebrate national tourism success at VisitEngland Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions have been recognised among England’s leading tourism businesses after achieving national success at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.

Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout were among four tourism businesses and individuals from the Peak District and Derbyshire to receive national awards at the prestigious ceremony, held at Aerospace Bristol on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026.

Winners from Peak Edge Hotel, Silver winner of the Small Hotel of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Andrew Stokes OBE, England Director, at Aerospace Bristol.

Peak Edge Hotel-VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, which have celebrated the very best of England’s tourism industry for more than 35 years, recognise excellence across accommodation, attractions, accessibility, food and drink, visitor experiences and customer service.

Representing the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby on the national stage, local finalists achieved the following results:

  • Small Hotel of the Year – Silver – Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Pub of the Year – Silver – The Tickled Trout, Barlow
  • Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award – Gold – Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • Unsung Hero Award – Silver – Viv Smith, National Stone Centre

All four national finalists secured their place in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence after winning Gold at the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards earlier this year.

The success of Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout highlights the quality of hospitality experiences available in and around Chesterfield, helping to strengthen our town’s reputation as a welcoming destination for visitors and showcasing the strength of the local visitor economy.

Winners from The Tickled Trout, Barlow, Silver winner of the Pub of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Nigel Wilkinson MBE, VisitEngland Advisory Board Member, at Aerospace Bristol.

The Tickled Trout – VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

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

“To achieve four national awards, including a Gold and three Silvers, is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the outstanding quality, innovation and customer service across the Peak District and Derbyshire.

These results demonstrate the strength and diversity of our visitor economy.”

Steve Perez, owner of Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“We are enormously proud of what the team has achieved. Hospitality is ultimately about people, and this award reflects the dedication, warmth and professionalism our team shows every day. As an independent Derbyshire business, it is particularly special to be representing the Peak District on a national stage and demonstrating the quality of hospitality experiences available here.”

Mark Thurman, Managing Director of Peak Edge Hotel, added:

“This award recognises years of hard work and continual investment in the guest experience. We’ve focused on creating something that feels relaxed, welcoming and authentic, while still delivering exceptional quality. To achieve Silver at a national level is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.”

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 brought together finalists from 21 regional and local tourism competitions, with more than 1,800 tourism businesses entering local awards programmes across the country.

Tourism continues to play a vital role in the regional economy, contributing £2.58 billion annually to the Peak District and Derbyshire and supporting thousands of jobs across the area.

To discover more award-winning places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout 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 Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

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

New personalised phone case vending machine launches in Chesterfield

A new technology-led retail concept has launched in our town centre, allowing shoppers to create personalised phone cases within minutes at The Pavements Shopping Centre.

The launch of Ink My Case has brought a new retail innovation to the town, enabling customers to design and print custom phone cases while they shop.

Developed by Sheffield-based entrepreneurs through VoltVend Ltd, the vending machine is located at the main entrance of The Pavements, opposite Chesterfield Library. It allows customers to personalise phone cases using their own photos, artwork and designs, which are printed on demand.

Supporting a wide range of Apple and Samsung devices, the concept offers a fast, convenient alternative to traditional personalised products, which are typically ordered online.

The Chesterfield installation is the first Ink My Case vending machine to be introduced, marking the first step in VoltVend Ltd’s plans to expand the concept to shopping centres and retail destinations across the UK.

Gareth Richardson, Director of VoltVend Ltd and Ink My Case, said:

“We created Ink My Case to combine creativity, technology and convenience. While personalised products are often ordered online and delivered days later, our machine allows customers to design and receive their custom phone case in a matter of minutes.

“Launching in Chesterfield is a proud milestone for us and the first step in our plans to expand the concept to shopping centres and retail destinations across the UK.

“We would like to thank The Pavements Shopping Centre for supporting a new local business and giving us the opportunity to introduce this innovative concept to Chesterfield shoppers.”

The launch demonstrates how innovation and technology are enhancing Chesterfield’s retail offer, attracting new concepts and strengthening our town centre’s appeal to visitors and investors.

To explore investment opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Visiting

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