Business

Looking ahead to the future of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

1st January 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paul Flitter, Founder and Director, New Oak Estates

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

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

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

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder, CRUSH

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

Laura Jo, Owner, Adorn Jewellers

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

Neil Beaumont, Sales Director, Custom Solar

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

Heather Hearn-Poole, SEO Manager, FWD Motion

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

Anna Meer, Director, DLP Planning

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

Dawn Brown, Owner, Rose Cottage, DogLand

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

Claudia Risorto, Apprentice Solicitor, Banner Jones Solicitors

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

Katie Snodden, Head of Sales, Bridge Help

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

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

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

Expanded CCTV coverage into Chatsworth Road

28th December 2025

CCTV coverage is set to expand into the Chatsworth Road area as Chesterfield Borough Council invests around £10,000 to increase safety in one of our town’s most popular areas. The commitment aims to deter unwanted behaviour and tackle antisocial behaviour.

The additional cameras are set to be installed from West Bar roundabout up to Old Road junction.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield is a very safe place to live, work and socialise – however, like all towns and cities around the country, anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder can sometimes arise, but we are committed to tackling this.

“The Chatsworth Road area is quite rightly becoming more and more popular, with a fantastic range of bars, pubs and restaurants on offer, so it’s really important for us to invest in the safety of the area.

“The extension of our CCTV network up Chatsworth Road means we can work more effectively with police to tackle incidents in the area, so that it continues to be a safe place for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

Inspector Josh Carter, said: “CCTV can provide absolutely vital evidence during investigations – as well as providing excellent live time monitoring to help officers be contacted when incidents occur.

“The new cameras are a welcome addition to the centre and will provide reassurance to the community, as well as a deterrent to those who think they can behaviour either anti-socially or criminally in our town.”

Funding for the new CCTV has come from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Local play area welcomes families following major transformation

27th December 2025

Heather Vale Play Area in Hasland, has been transformed with upgraded new equipment. Designed to suit children from ages three to twelve, the play area includes a toddler play unit with steps, slides and a mini climbing net. Along with agility equipment for older children plus sensory panels and ground activities to support inclusive play.

Part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambitious parks and play delivery plan, which was launched in 2023, aims to improve play areas across the borough.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, said:

“We recognise how play areas form an important part of every community in our borough, providing a space for children to develop and build confidence but also creating a place where parents can socialise together.

“Through our parks and play delivery plan we identified the play areas across the borough which were most in need of an upgrade and over the last few years we have been working hard to refurbish these facilities and improve local play spaces.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to carry out these works in Hasland before Christmas. I know this will be a great asset for the community to enjoy and we’ve already received some great feedback from local families.

“Creating these spaces helps ensure that Chesterfield is a fantastic borough to live and raise a family and we’ll be investing even more into our play areas over the next few years to ensure that every family can access a welcoming and safe play area in their neighbourhood.”

Continued upgrades are being planned at Barnes Road in Hady and in Duckmanton in the first half of 2026. Further improvements across the borough are also being planned.

The refurbishment of Heather Vale began on site in late November 2025 and is funded through combined council and grant funding. With funding provided from both the Suez communities fund and from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Residents who visit are being asked to complete a survey about the upgrade, the short survey will help plan future improvements across the borough and access further grant funding for other play spaces. To complete the survey please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/heather-vale-play-area

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

Our Chesterfield Champions reflect on a year of achievements

26th December 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on another year of progress and achievement.

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live, named one of the happiest places to live in the East Midlands by The Guardian and the Rightmove Happy at Home Index. It has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space.  Thanks to its excellent schools, our strong community spirit and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Throughout the year, progress has continued on the transformation of Chesterfield and Staveley town centres, the extension of the Chesterfield Canal, and the preparation of development platforms for the first phase at PEAK Resort.

We spoke to our network of Chesterfield Champions who have shared their businesses’ biggest successes from the past twelve months.

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

“Starting work on our employment scheme at Markham Vale (NOVA) with our joint venture partner HBD has to be the highlight of the year for Devonshire Property Group. This scheme will see over 700,000 sq ft of high-quality employment space delivered at Markham Vale employing in the region of 700-800 people. We’re due to complete the initial ground works early in 2026 and will accelerate our marketing campaigns to attract occupiers and investors in the New Year.”

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

“This year has been transformational for Chesterfield. We’ve moved beyond planning into delivery on the ground — bringing regeneration projects to life — and we’re already seeing the benefits for our residents and businesses. Major milestones have been achieved, including the revitalisation of Chesterfield’s main market square – breathing new energy into the heart of our town. Key initiatives, such as the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle, have begun, positioning Chesterfield at the forefront of future rail innovation. Together with the Chesterfield Town Board, we’ve set clear investment priorities to further boost long-term prosperity for the town.

Other examples of this real-life impact include our ongoing commitment to providing decent homes for local people, with new homes in Staveley ready to welcome families; and we’re strengthening our communities through the provision of funding for grassroots and community groups – supporting them to continue their vital work.

Overall, this has been a year of achievement, momentum, and pride – working together with our strong local networks – to make Chesterfield a fantastic place to live, work, and thrive.”

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

“Supporting over 6,000 students and apprentices to learn, grow and take their next steps has undoubtedly been our proudest achievement. As a college group, we’ve also continued to strengthen partnerships with hundreds of employers across the region, ensuring our curriculum genuinely reflects industry needs and future workforce demand.”

Paul Flitter, Founder and Director, New Oak Estates

“We are delighted to have been identified as one of the top estate agents in the UK for the second year running. We feature in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025 – the most comprehensive review of UK agencies.””

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

“As someone who has called Chesterfield home for over 40 years, I am particularly proud of our involvement with Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project and seeing the recently completed Market Square re-open. This vibrant update to the town centre’s public realm blends repurposed cobbles with new feature paving, subtly honouring the market’s heritage through a carefully chosen material palette.”

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder, CRUSH

“We won a series of awards, including the Transform Awards Europe and German Design Awards for our rebrand of Ziemann Holvrieka, as well as being personally shortlisted and winning two women’s business awards.”

Laura Jo, Owner, Adorn Jewellers

“We’re thrilled to have celebrated a milestone: 15 years of business in the heart of the town centre. The high street has certainly changed during that time. We’re hopeful that the growth of town centre living, combined with footfall driven by social media and online discovery, will ensure we continue to thrive here in Middle Shambles for many years to come.”

Neil Beaumont, Sales Director, Custom Solar

“Since our acquisition by MITIE two years ago, we’ve tripled our workforce and continued to grow. Our focus has been on delivering high-quality installations, meeting our clients’ carbon reduction goals, and maintaining the company’s ambitious growth trajectory.”

Heather Hearn-Poole, SEO Manager, FWD Motion

“Over the past year, we’ve grown and developed our pool of talent in both SEO and Channel Marketing to ensure that we continue to be at the leading edge of digital marketing.”

Anna Meer, Director, DLP Planning

“Quite recently, we have become an employee-owned trust. We have noticed a real difference across all our offices, in terms of the drive and commitment that everyone has in sharing how the company grows.”

Dawn Brown, Owner, Rose Cottage, DogLand

“We’re thrilled about the progress we’ve made towards opening a second DogLand site at Woolley Moor. After the serious floods in 2023, our Rose Cottage facility was severely damaged and required many repairs and TLC. But thanks to our hardworking team and supportive community, we were able to come back bigger and better than ever.”

Claudia Risorto, Apprentice Solicitor, Banner Jones Solicitors

“One of our proudest achievements at Banner Jones Solicitors has been securing a place in the Legal 500 rankings. Additionally, we rank 1^st in Chesterfield for the volume of property transactions we handle.”

Katie Snodden, Head of Sales, Bridge Help

“This past year has been record-breaking for Bridge Help, with the highest number of enquiries to date. Increased investor support allowed us to launch exciting new products and grow our team with two new hires as we continue to scale.”

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

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

People of Chesterfield show support for Ashgate Hospice

23rd December 2025

The people of North Derbyshire have shown incredible generosity and support for Ashgate Hospice in recent months, coming together to raise vital funds and honour loved ones. Despite the hospice facing a significant funding shortfall, community events have highlighted the strength and compassion of the local area.

Annual Ball raises over £100,000

Ashgate Hospice’s annual black-tie Ball, held for the first time at the Best Western Plus Mosborough Hall Hotel in Sheffield on Friday 14 November 2025, raised £108,818 to support patients living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

The event welcomed 180 guests who enjoyed a four-course dinner and learned more about the hospice’s impact in the region. Guests also took part in a lively auction, with items including a signed Jude Bellingham shirt from the Euro 2024 final, a tour of the Silverstone Aramco Formula One building, and a luxury stay at Swinney Wood Log Cabins in Belper.

Anna Jinks, partnerships development officer, said:

“This is without doubt one of the most challenging periods in Ashgate Hospice’s history, and that makes the generosity shown at the Annual Ball even more humbling.

To see so many people come together, give so generously and help raise such an incredible amount means so much for the hospice and everyone who relies on our services.

The funds raised will make a real, tangible difference to patients and the people important to them when they need us most, and we cannot thank our supporters enough for standing with us at such a critical time.”

Light up a Life brings community together in remembrance

Just weeks later, on Sunday 7 December 2025, hundreds of people took part in Ashgate Hospice’s annual Light up a Life event, sponsored by Harold Lilleker & Sons Ltd, raising more than £55,000. Around 500 supporters walked the 1.6-mile lantern-lit procession through Old Brampton, while another 150 attended the remembrance ceremony in the hospice gardens.

Jack Wood, Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“We want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for Light up a Life this year. After what has been a challenging period for our hospice, seeing so many people stand side by side in remembrance meant more than we can say.

“For many, this time of year can be incredibly hard. Coming together in this way – to pause, to remember and to honour someone important – is a powerful reminder of the strength within our community.”

The evening featured music from Sheffield’s Cancer Choir, vocalist Alex Eastwood, and thoughtful readings, led by Ashgate’s Spiritual Care Practitioner, Tim Wheeler.

Even after the event, supporters can still dedicate a star in Ashgate’s virtual night sky in memory of someone special, with all donations helping to fund the hospice’s specialist end-of-life and palliative care services. With NHS funding covering only half of the care costs, community support remains essential to ensure Ashgate can continue to provide its vital services.

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home

New era announced for Penny Engineering

21st December 2025

Penny Engineering is marking a major milestone by transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This change secures the company’s long-term independence and preserves the values that have guided its success for generations.

The decision reflects the Penny family’s long-standing belief that the business should benefit its employees rather than external shareholders.

Managing Director Tim Penny highlighted the motivation behind the shift, stating:
“Our commitment has always been to the long-term stability of this business and the people who work within it. By transitioning to employee ownership, we are decisively guaranteeing that Penny Engineering’s success, survival and future for the next 100 years will be determined by our team, free from the volatility of external shareholder demands.”

Chairman Robin Penny emphasised the family’s custodianship ethos, adding:
“We were brought up by our dad to believe that we were custodians of the business, not owners. He believed that only people working in the business should benefit from it. This transition brings that principle to life, ensuring that the team who work within Penny, the ones who drive our success, are the ultimate beneficiaries.”

The company has long maintained strong staff retention, with many senior leaders developing their careers within the organisation. Employee ownership builds on this foundation by reinforcing job security and strengthening employee influence across all levels of the business.

The newly established Trustee Board will lead the EOT. Chaired by Robin Penny, it includes employee representatives Jocelyn Cole (General Manager, Goods Lifts) and Sam Dobson (General Manager, Sidetracker), independent trustee David Ball and Finance Director Ashley Holmes. The Board will also form an employee council, giving staff a direct voice on welfare and community matters.

The company completed the transition at a substantial discount to market value, an intentional decision to ensure the business does not face financial strain.

The directors also extended their thanks to professional advisers Shorts Chartered Accountants and Knights Plc for their support throughout the process.

David Robinson, Tax Partner at Shorts, commented: “ Throughout the past 20 years or so that Shorts has been a trusted adviser to Penny Engineering and its stakeholders, it has been clear that employees are at the heart of the business. We look forward to working with the Directors and Trustees in this exciting new chapter.”

This transition marks a significant step forward for one of our town’s longstanding industrial innovators. Penny Engineering will continue to strengthen the region’s engineering sector for decades to come.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing

HBD sells Markham Vale site to Litton Properties

18th December 2025

HBD, part of Henry Boot, has sold a 2-acre trade park site at Markham Vale to Litton Properties.

Markham Vale is one of HBD’s most successful industrial and logistics schemes. The M1-linked development is a joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. The development has created more than 2,600 jobs and is home to occupiers including Smurfit Kappa and Bilstein.

Litton Property Group will start construction in the first half of 2026. The scheme will deliver over 30,000 sq ft of trade counter and other commercial space. Flexible units from 3,817 sq ft will be available. The site sits opposite the M1 service area.

Based in Bakewell, Litton Property Group specialises in retail, leisure, regeneration and business uses. Its portfolio includes retained developments and strategically acquired sites. The business manages these assets for long-term redevelopment or asset management.

Hamer Boot, Executive Director at HBD, said: “As a well-established I&L scheme and with direct access to the M1, Markham Vale presents an ideal trade park location. This trade counter site is a good fit for Litton Property Group, who will now bring the development forward in 2026.”

Mark Twelves, Managing Director of Litton Property Group, said: “Markham Vale Trade Park will deliver a new benchmark for trade counter, warehouse and light industrial accommodation in Derbyshire. Our purchase and the development of the site sends out a strong signal that Derbyshire is a place that helps business to establish, grow and thrive. With a growing workforce, new housing nearby, and strong regional links, it is perfectly positioned for ambitious businesses.”

HBD is progressing several new developments at Markham Vale. These include Nova, a 732,000 sq ft industrial and logistics scheme. The project is a joint venture with Devonshire Property Group. The BREEAM Excellent development includes two units and could create up to 800 jobs.

Origin, a joint venture between HBD and Feldberg Capital, has completed phase one of the ARK scheme. Capital Angling now occupies the first of four units. The team has submitted a planning application for phase two. This will deliver a further 53,000 sq ft ESG-compliant unit.

HBD is one of the UK’s most established property developers. It has a strong track record, solid financial backing and a reputation for delivery. As a result, This has made it a partner of choice for local authorities, investors and developers.

Additionally, with a £1.3 billion development pipeline, HBD operates from six UK offices. It focuses on industrial and logistics, urban development and residential projects.

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

New bar brings local beer to Chatsworth Road

17th December 2025

Located on the popular Chatsworth Road, The Outbreak has opened its doors, adding to the area’s growing reputation as a vibrant destination for food, drink and socialising close to our town centre.

The new independent bar, which has been open for five weeks, is owned by the former proprietor of the Real Ale Corner micropub, also located on Chatsworth Road. The bar draws inspiration from Derbyshire’s brewing heritage and a close working relationship with Eyam Brewery.

“I used to own the Real Ale Corner micropub down the other end of Chatsworth Road, and got to know Gervaise at Eyam Brewery through that,” the owner said. “The brewery taps into the plague history of Eyam, with a lot of the beers having plague-themed names. That’s where the name of the bar comes from – The Outbreak tying into the plague theme.”

With a wide selection of both cask and keg options, alongside rotating guest beers and a permanent line of Kasteel Belgian beers. The bar also offers a comprehensive wine list and a selection of spirits.

“There’s also a fantastic wine list and spirits, so something for everyone!” the owner added.

Food plays a key role at The Outbreak, with the kitchen serving freshly made tacos and sides, making it the only venue in Chesterfield specialising in flavourful tacos. This weekend, the bar is also launching a new eating challenge.

“We’re launching an eating challenge this coming weekend – 20 minutes to complete a tray of 12 tacos and a portion of nachos,” the owner said. “Complete it within the time and it’s free, otherwise you pay for it.”

In the run-up to Christmas, The Outbreak plans to open extended hours from Friday 19th to Wednesday 24th, providing an additional option for festive food and drinks in the town.

The venue also features an upstairs space with seating for more than 35 people, which the team hopes will be used by local groups and organisations.

“Our bar has a fantastic upstairs space with seating for 35+,” the owner explained. “It’s a great place to sit and relax, but we also want to make it available to the community for local groups to use. We’re hosting the next local CAMRA meeting on the 8th Jan, for example.”

Looking ahead, The Outbreak is developing a programme of events for 2025, including Meet the Brewer evenings, tasting sessions and a monthly pub quiz.

“Overall, The Outbreak is a great informal space to come for food, local drinks and to socialise!”

For more local independent food and drink venues: www.chesterfield.co.uk/food-and-drink-businesses

Posted in Business, Christmas, Development, Home, Leisure

Christine Durrant to become Council’s next Chief Executive

12th December 2025

Chesterfield Borough Council is set to welcome Christine Durrant as its new Chief Executive when current chief, Huw Bowen, retires next May. The appointment is due to be confirmed at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday 17 December.

Christine currently serves as the council’s Deputy Chief Executive, having been a key member of the senior leadership team since 2019. She brings more than 30 years of local government experience, including 19 years in senior leadership roles, and previously worked at Derby City Council, finishing as Strategic Director for Communities and Place as well as, Deputy Chief Executive.

Her appointment follows a thorough assessment process, including a skills evaluation and a final interview, after which the council’s Member Appointments Panel recommended her for the top role.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, said: “I’m delighted that Christine has been recommended for appointment as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive.

“Christine has already served the council with distinction for the past six years. During this time, she has built an excellent reputation as a leader and manager, for delivering strong public services and for forging effective relationships with the council’s many partners.

“With local government reorganisation just over two years away, Christine is also well placed to lead the council at a time of significant change – carrying forward the respected legacy of our outgoing Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, when he retires in May.”

Christine has over 30 years’ experience in local government, with the last 19 years’ in senior leadership roles. Prior to joining Chesterfield Borough Council, Christine worked for Derby City Council for over 20 years, and in her final years as the city council’s Strategic Director for Communities and Place, and Deputy Chief Executive.

Christine, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to find myself just one step away from being appointed as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive. It will be a privilege and honour to take up the role in May.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the council. It is a great place to work with committed councillors and dedicated staff that are as one in relation to wanting to make Chesterfield a thriving borough and improve the quality of life of local people.

“As well as ensuring that the council continues to deliver for its communities, one of my top priorities will be to work with the Leader of the Council to ensure that the council, its residents and businesses are well placed to benefit from the government’s planned reforms of local government within the area of the county of Derbyshire.”

Christine will take up the role of Chief Executive on 4 May 2026, subject to her appointment being approved by Full Council.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Tesco set to open in former M&S store

10th December 2025

Tesco has been confirmed as the first tenant for the former Marks & Spencer building on High Street in Chesterfield.

Following a significant investment programme by property developer ALB Group in 2–8 High Street, the ground floor has been divided into three retail units, with Tesco securing the central space.

The 5,000 sq ft unit will be transformed into a Tesco Express. The handover is expected at the end of January 2026, with the retailer signing a 15-year lease.

Situated opposite the historic 800-year-old Market Place and adjacent to Primark, the building is one of the most recognisable on our town’s main shopping street.

ALB Group is progressing work to rejuvenate the building ahead of Tesco’s fit-out. Alongside the new supermarket, two additional ground-floor units are being created within the same block, both around 5,000 sq ft. These units are reportedly attracting significant interest from national and regional occupiers, suggesting continued demand for well-located space in our town.

Arran Bailey, Managing Director at ALB Group, said: “This deal is another example of our commitment to breathing new life into key town and city centres across the UK. The former M&S site is in a prime location, and securing Tesco is a huge vote of confidence in Chesterfield’s high street.”

Oliver Marshall of FHP Property Consultants said: “The letting to Tesco adds to the revitalisation of the heart of the town and shows the continued appetite for well-positioned, quality retail space in busy high street locations. This unit is right in the heart of the town, surrounded by other strong retailers, and we’re confident it will perform extremely well.

We also have two further units of c. 5,000 sq ft remaining in the building on the ground floor of the building, facing the Market Place. Whilst we have had some good interest, we are keen to discuss this with any other interested parties”.

Businesses interested in letting the available spaces of the building can contact Oliver Marshall on 07887 787885 or email oliver@fhp.co.uk

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

Chesterfield Canal Trust awarded over £15,000 for environmental and volunteer projects

8th December 2025

Chesterfield Canal Trust has secured more than £15,000 in community grants to fund environmental improvements and expand volunteer opportunities along the canal.

The Trust received £2,531. from the Co-op’s Local Community Fund, following months of public voting by Co-op members. The grant will help drive forward the Rewatering Renishaw project, which aims to restore a stretch of the canal and create a vibrant waterside space complete with new trees, wildflowers, picnic areas and enhanced habitats for local wildlife.

Kath Auton, Trustee said the team had been “incredibly grateful” for the backing from local shoppers.
“Our volunteer Work Party has already started the Rewatering Renishaw project,” she said. “We’re hoping to be recruiting more volunteers from the local community next year.”

Following on from the Co-op award, the Trust learned in late November that it had also been successful in its bid to the National Lottery Community Fund, receiving £12,880 from the Awards for All (Environment) programme. The funding supports community-led projects that tackle climate and nature challenges, while helping local people enjoy and care for green spaces.

The Trust’s project will focus on expanding its volunteer workforce over the next two years, aiming to recruit ten existing volunteers and twenty new ones. Volunteers will work on habitat management both on the water and along the towpath in Derbyshire, supporting nature recovery and improving areas that are open for everyone to enjoy.

The grant will also fund specialist training, including ecological best practice, environmental surveying, and safe use of equipment such as chainsaws and brush cutters. The Trust plans to train trainers who can then pass on their knowledge to the wider volunteer team.

Although the two-year project officially launches in February 2026, planning is already well underway.

The Trust says both grants will play a vital role in protecting and enhancing one of the area’s most cherished natural assets, while giving more local people the chance to get involved in hands-on conservation.

The bid was written by the Trust’s Funding Officer, Ian Sesnan, and Steve Waller, who is a Trustee.

Steve said: “The Chesterfield Canal Trust is very grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund. Lots of people ask to help with our work, but proper training and getting the right equipment can be very expensive.

This grant will enable us to really expand our operation so that local people will be able to look after their beautiful canal for the benefit of everyone.”

Posted in Business, Development, Visiting