Development

Local businesses and events celebrate national recognition

Our Chesterfield Champions are celebrating success with several businesses shortlisted for the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026 in categories including customer service, sustainability and international growth. Banner Jones Solicitors is also marking a major achievement after winning the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025.

Adding to the excitement, two local events  are competing for top honours at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards, showcasing the creativity and community spirit that make our region stand out.

These achievements highlight Chesterfield’s growing reputation for innovation and excellence across business and tourism.

Chesterfield champions shortlisted for Derbyshire business awards

East Midlands Chamber is proud to announce the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026, taking place at Pride Park Stadium, Derby on Thursday 26 March 2026. They will celebrate the outstanding achievements and innovation of Derbyshire businesses over the past year.

With finalists announced across 12 diverse categories, from leadership and innovation to digital development and customer service excellence, this prestigious event provides the perfect opportunity to recognise the hard work and success of local businesses. We are excited to see several of our Chesterfield champions shortlisted, highlighting the region’s exceptional talent.

Businesses shortlisted for awards:

Excellence in Customer Service Award

  • Kranlee Logistics

Green Business of the Year Award

  • Penny Engineering

Commitment to People Development Award

  • Kranlee Logistics

Apprentice of the Year Award

Excellence in International Growth Award

  • Penny Engineering
  • Kranlee Logistics

Derbyshire Business Awards 2023 winners

Banner Jones wins Best Innovation Award at the 2025 LawNet Awards

Banner Jones has won the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025 for transforming the conveyancing process with a fully digital, end-to-end solution. Winning the Best Innovation Award, sponsored by Baskerville Drummond, marks a major milestone for Banner Jones.

The firm uses biometric ID checks, AI-powered search reports and interactive digital quote brochures to improve speed and accuracy.

Handling more than 3,500 conveyancing matters annually, Banner Jones identified inefficiencies in the traditional process and introduced a fully digital client journey. Clients can now complete their part of a transaction remotely, without posting or delivering paper documents in person. This transformation has streamlined operations, reduced delays and saved time for both clients and the firm.

Over the past five years, Banner Jones has co-developed bespoke technology with leading providers to ensure the tools are practical, compliant and effective for real-world legal work.

As the first firm in England and Wales to launch an interactive digital quote brochure, Banner Jones has also shared its expertise at industry events. Estate agents and referrers have responded positively, increasing referral volumes by 33 per cent over two years.

Richard Joy, Head of Residential Property, said: “Winning this award reflects years of investment, collaboration and the dedication of our team. Our digital transformation has simplified a complex process for thousands of clients, and we are proud to see this acknowledged nationally.”

Simon Wright, CEO, added: “This award highlights the talent, creativity and commitment of our people. Innovation at Banner Jones isn’t just about technology — it’s about using our knowledge to deliver smarter, faster and more client-focused legal services.”

Banner Jones Solicitor

Chesterfield events shortlisted for tourism awards

Two of Chesterfield’s standout events are in the running for Festival or Event of the Year at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards 2026.

Matlock Farm Park and Chatsworth Estate have been recognised for bringing the region’s history, culture and community spirit to life.

The Highland Games at Matlock Farm Park attract visitors with traditional sports, music and family fun. Celebrating Jane Austen transforms Chatsworth Estate into a world of Regency charm and literary celebration.

Both events showcase the creativity and energy that make the areas around Chesterfield a must-visit destination.

Public voting is now open, giving residents and visitors the chance to choose their favourite. The shortlist also includes Y Not Festival, The Greatest Gathering, and Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust’s Georgian Festival.

Voting closes at 23:59 on Sunday 30 November 2025. To cast your vote visit: visitengland

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Spring 2026, celebrating the very best of Derbyshire’s festivals and events.

Highland games

Mortgage 1st shortlisted twice at MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026

Mortgage 1st has been shortlisted in two categories at the MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026.

The firm is a finalist for Broker Firm of the Year (11–50 Advisers), recognising its work in supporting homebuyers across the UK. It has also been shortlisted for Overall Broker of the Year, competing alongside some of the largest names in the industry.

Founded in Chesterfield, Mortgage 1st has grown steadily over the years, offering independent mortgage advice and personalised support to help clients find the right deals for their needs. The team said it was proud to be included among the finalists.

The awards ceremony will take place in February 2026 in London.

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

SDE Energy Solutions powers sustainability at Markham Vale

A major solar installation by SDE Energy Solutions, part of Chesterfield Champion SDE Group, has helped bilstein group take a big step in its sustainability journey at Markham Vale.

The renewables specialist installed 1,555 solar panels across 3,036.5 m² of roof space at the bilstein group distribution centre, based at Markham Vale. As a result, the company now generates a large portion of its own clean energy. Early data shows that 77.7 percent of the electricity produced is used directly on site. This powers day-to-day operations and office functions.

“We are delighted to support bilstein group in reaching such an important sustainability milestone,” said Aaron Olver, Technical Director at SDE Energy Solutions. “This project shows how targeted solar solutions can deliver both environmental and economic benefits, helping businesses take control of their energy usage.”

Paul Dodgson, Managing Director for bilstein group UK said “Sustainability is central to every major decision we make. Our new solar installation spans 3,036.5 m² of roof space and now supplies clean, renewable energy to our operations and offices. It cuts our reliance on fossil fuels, supports long-term energy savings, and delivers an annual carbon reduction equal to planting roughly 7,000 trees”

Paul went on to say “We are proud of the collaborative project with SDE Energy Solutions. By working together, we have taken a major step forward towards our sustainability goals. Thank you to everyone involved in the project for their hard work and professionalism, from start to finish.”

This project not only highlights bilstein group’s commitment to sustainable practices but also serves as a strong example for other manufacturers and distributors considering investment at Markham Vale. Businesses looking to grow sustainably in the region can see how renewable energy solutions can be integrated effectively, delivering both environmental and financial benefits.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

Council receives national award for innovative construction skills support

The Construction Skills Hub, operated by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with local organisations, has been awarded National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

This national recognition highlights Chesterfield’s leadership as a centre of excellence for construction training and best practice in local labour processes. It further strengthens collaboration between the council, CITB, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group to expand opportunities at the Construction Skills Hub.

Achieving the new status provides a formal framework for delivering local labour initiatives. Contractors including, Stepnell, Vistry, and Harron Homes will now collaborate more closely with the hub to boost skills development and employment opportunities for local residents.

The Construction Skills Hub, a sector-specific training facility linked to the Devonshire Group’s emerging development at Mastin Moor, is a flagship project within the Staveley Town Deal. Over the next decade, it is expected to support more than 5,000 learners, from school pupils exploring careers to adults seeking to re-skill, providing careers insights, training and work experience.

The hub has been created to help tackle well-documented skills shortages across the construction industry. CITB’s latest Industry Outlook Report highlights that the East Midlands alone needs over 3,000 new construction workers every year until 2029 to keep pace with demand for housing and infrastructure.

The Construction Skills Hub is a unique collaboration between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby and the Devonshire Group. The project supports the council’s ambition to make Chesterfield a thriving, modern borough and improve the quality of life for local people.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said:

“I’m delighted Chesterfield Borough Council has received this award. As the first council in our region to enter into this positive partnership with the CITB, we are truly leading the way when it comes to providing support for skills development.

Securing National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status endorses our approach to creating fantastic opportunities for local people arising from development, not only through training but also by strengthening the local supply chain. The work we do has real impact too—students at our Construction Skills Hub are more than three times more likely to go into construction-related employment, giving them the best chance to build a bright future in our borough.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School (Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive) at Chesterfield College, said: “Being awarded the status of National Skills Academy for Construction is another huge milestone for our Skills Hub.

The quality of our training begins with its unique setting – a live construction site, where students gain real-world experience from day one. This hands-on approach is strengthened by the expertise of our industry-leading tutors. They equip students with the practical skills and knowledge employers need to tackle the well-documented skills gap in construction.

This initiative continues to go from strength to strength, demonstrating the powerful impact that collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and local community can achieve. Securing NSAfC status will further deepen our partnership with employers, enabling us to support both the recruitment of new talent and the upskilling of existing staff.”

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director at the Devonshire Group, emphasised the long-term value of the project: “The Devonshire Group is delighted to support the Construction Skills Hub, and this latest achievement is a credit to all the teams involved.

Creating great communities is core to our values, and we hope to create a lasting legacy for Chesterfield by supporting construction skills for those who will help build communities in the future.”

Nathan Wilkins, Customer Engagement Manager for the East Midlands and East of England at CITB, added: “We’re excited to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council and local partners to bring the National Skills Academy for Construction to the area.

This collaboration will create new opportunities for local people to gain high-quality training, apprenticeships and careers, ensuring major developments directly benefit the community. CITB is proud to help strengthen the local workforce and support Chesterfield’s growth for years to come.” 

Cllr jean Innes and nathan wilkins skills

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

Chesterfield projects selected as part of East Midlands Investment Fund

Projects for Chesterfield and Steveley have been approved to enter the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) £25 million Investment Fund pipeline.

Funding will support ten projects that strengthen town centres, boost small businesses, create jobs, and promote greener, more sustainable communities across the East Midlands.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This funding marks another major step forward in our shared ambition to unlock the potential of the East Midlands.

“Inclusive growth is at the heart of everything we do and we’re ensuring the benefits of investment reach every part of our region, from our cities to our towns and villages.

“These projects will help create new opportunities, drive innovation, and support local jobs, all while strengthening the foundations of our communities.”

The projects in Chesterfield and Staveley are:

Other projects across Nottingham and Derbyshire include: Clay Cross Town Deal, Ashbourne Reborn, Long Eaton Town Deal, Stapleford Pencil Works, Greening Growth in Giltbrook, Yorke Drive Housing, Newark, Sherwood Revival, Ollerton, and Becketwell Enabling.

Mayor Claire said: “We’re working with partners to build a region that celebrates its heritage while looking confidently to the future. I’m committed to making the East Midlands a place where everyone has the chance to thrive, contribute, and feel proud to call home.”

Progress across the region

EMCCA board members approved the projects during their meeting on Monday, 24 November 2025. Each scheme is now moving through final due diligence ahead of funding release.

This funding round builds on previous regional successes, including:

  • The South Derbyshire Growth Zone, backed by Derbyshire County Council in October.

  • The upcoming demolition of Nottingham’s Broadmarsh shopping centre, unlocking regeneration and future homes.

  • The launch of the Infinity Prototyping Centre at Infinity Park East Midlands in Derby, a new innovation and R&D hub.

Cllr Rob Reaney, Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said:

“We’re working in partnership with our district and borough council colleagues on these projects as part of our wider regeneration plans for the whole of the county.

“With the support of funding from EMCCA, they will make a real difference to local residents by boosting businesses, bringing benefits to our local economy and improving spaces within our communities.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development

Mayor sets out £4.8m boost for East Midlands tourism and investment

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward has unveiled plans for the new Visit East Midlands and Invest East Midlands programmes to strengthen the region’s profile and drive growth.

The initiatives will spotlight the East Midlands as both a leading UK visitor destination and a prime investment region, and were signed off by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board on the 24th November. EMCCA will provide £4.8 million in baseline funding over the next two years to strengthen the visitor economy, support local businesses, and attract new investment into Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The move supports the newly published East Midlands Growth Plan and is expected to help EMCCA leverage further Government and private sector contributions as it works towards its £13 billion growth ambition.

A unified approach to promotion and growth

A new Visit East Midlands partnership will be formed to promote the region’s attractions, develop new experiences, build a clear identity for the area and deliver coordinated campaigns to encourage more visitors from the UK and internationally.

Running alongside it, Invest East Midlands will work with partners to attract new businesses and investment, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “Visit East Midlands was something I promised to deliver when I was elected, because working together as one region is how we put the East Midlands back on the map. We won’t grow if we don’t work together to achieve it – and this moment is a key milestone in defining how that collaborative work will look when it comes to attracting visitors and boosting investment.

“The investment we are making to set this in motion puts in place the building blocks to power our regional economy and will be the foundation for future investment. We will work hard to ensure this investment pays off.”

Strengthening regional identity

The decision follows a review into how economic development functions,including visitor economy, business support and inward investment, are currently organised across the region. With the UK Shared Prosperity Fund due to end in March, the review highlighted the need for improved coordination and a clearer regional identity and brand.

In response, EMCCA will invest in three major programmes:

  • Invest East Midlands – Driving regional effort through working with partners such as Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Marketing Derby, Destination Chesterfield and Freeport to bring in new investment and support business growth.

  • Visit East Midlands – Promoting the region, working with partners such as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire and Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to grow the visitor economy and develop new visitor experiences and campaigns.

  • East Midlands Growth Hub – Providing support and advice to help local businesses start and grow, delivered in partnership with universities and the private sector.

Detailed plans for each programme will now be developed with regional investment and visitor economy partners, councils, businesses and national organisations.

Mayor Claire Ward continued: “I will continue fighting for more investment to come into this region so we can deliver real change. This new approach will ensure the East Midlands gets the attention, recognition and money it needs to help me do that.”

Chair of EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board, David Williams, said: “I welcome the Mayor’s decisive action to use EMCCA funds to invest in the future of the East Midlands. In a time where funding is challenging, this commitment will enable us to strengthen our regional economy, enhance our visitor offer and create the conditions for sustainable business growth, driving prosperity for communities and businesses alike, strengthening the positioning of the East Midlands as a leading destination for investment and tourism.”

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

Sheet Anchor Evolve expands Chesterfield portfolio

Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, has completed the acquisition of 9, 11–13 Market Place in Chesterfield, further strengthening its investment presence in the town. The property comprises two retail units, let to Card Factory and Primark, occupying a prominent position in the heart of Chesterfield.

This latest purchase follows Sheet Anchor Evolve’s acquisition of Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in June this year, as part of its ongoing commitment to invest in and enhance Chesterfield’s town centre offering.

Chris Daly, Director at Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core said, “This acquisition builds on our long-term investment in Chesterfield and reflects our confidence in the town’s continued evolution. We’re increasingly focused on creating mixed-use environments that bring together retail, leisure, workspace, and residential elements.

“At Vicar Lane, we’re currently undertaking a strategic review to explore how we can enhance the tenant mix, improve public spaces, and introduce complementary uses. Our goal is to ensure the centre continues to serve the community while remaining relevant and resilient for the long term”.

Sam Cohen, Asset Manager at Sheet Anchor Evolve, will oversee the management of the property. The transaction was completed by solicitor Andrea Livingstone of Clarke Willmott on behalf of the landlord, with Brad Maher from Cited acting as agent.

For further opportunities at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, contact Sam Cohen at scohen@saevolve.com

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

Olympia House Emporium reopens following flood recovery

Olympia House Emporium officially reopened its doors on Monday, 10th November, following several months of recovery and restoration work after severe flooding temporarily forced the popular destination to close.

The unexpected flood caused significant damage to the building, affecting trading areas, flooring, electrical systems, and multiple trader units. The impact was felt not only by Olympia House itself but also by the community of independent traders who rely on the venue to showcase antiques, vintage furniture, art, home décor, collectibles, and handcrafted items.

Despite these challenges, the team at Olympia House has worked tirelessly to restore the space. Repairs and improvements included:

  • Restoration of all flood-damaged areas
  • Complete cleaning and safety checks
  • Updates to layout and customer access
  • Fresh decoration throughout the building
  • New windows, flat roofs, and flood barriers

The reopening marks a significant milestone, celebrating the resilience of the Olympia House team and the wider trader community.

“We were devastated when the flood hit,” said Sofia Brown, owner of Olympia House Emporium. “But the support we received and our determination to bring Olympia House back stronger than ever have been overwhelming. We can’t wait to welcome everyone through our doors again.”

From reopening day onwards, customers have enjoyed the same welcoming atmosphere, along with refreshed spaces, new traders, and carefully curated stalls.

However, on the evening of Friday, 14th November 2025, the area experienced further flooding. While fortunately the water did not enter the building, it left a mess in the car park, highlighting the ongoing challenges of extreme weather for local businesses.

Olympia House Emporium thanked its customers, traders, and the Chesterfield community for their patience and continued support during the recovery process, underscoring the strength and resilience of local independent businesses.

Olympia House Emporium

Posted in Development, Home, Visiting

Aldi Brimington celebrates grand opening with Team GB Olympian

Aldi’s newest store in Brimington opened its doors on 30th October. The launch marks an exciting addition to the local retail scene. Team GB rowing star Rowan McKellar joined the celebrations and cut the ribbon to welcome the first customers.

The store is located on Ringwood Road, Brimington, Chesterfield (S43 1DG). It is managed by Rob Hepworth and supported by 33 local colleagues.

Aldi continues to offer career opportunities across its stores, with details available on its recruitment website.

Aldi Brimington team

To mark the occasion, Rowan McKellar – a bronze medallist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, handed out complimentary bags of fresh fruit and vegetables from Aldi’s popular Super 6 range to the first 30 customers. As part of Aldi’s ongoing partnership with Team GB and its Get Set to Eat Fresh initiative, Rowan will also deliver an inspirational virtual assembly to pupils at Henry Bradley Infant School after the half-term break. The programme aims to teach children aged 5–14 about the benefits of cooking fresh, healthy meals. It has already reached over 2.5 million pupils nationwide.

During the assembly, Rowan will share insights into her Olympic journey, training regime, and the importance of healthy eating and exercise. Pupils will also have the chance to win a £20 Aldi gift voucher by designing a poster showing what healthy eating means to them, with the winner announced during the session.

Aldi GB rowing hero Rowan McKellar

Speaking about the opening, Store Manager Rob Hepworth said:

“It was fantastic to welcome our first customers to Aldi Brimington. We’re excited to be part of the local community and look forward to supporting initiatives like our partnership with Team GB.”

Rowan McKellar added:

“Opening the new Aldi was a real honour. I’m looking forward to inspiring pupils at Henry Bradley Infant School to eat healthily and stay active.”

Aldi Brimington is also inviting local charities and food banks to register with Neighbourly, a community support platform. Registered charities can collect surplus food, including fresh produce and baked goods, seven days a week.

Posted in Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction

East Midlands Investment Zone celebrates first year of growth

Thousands of jobs are set to be created across the East Midlands thanks to a “once-in-a-generation” growth and investment initiative.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority is now celebrating a major milestone this month as the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) marks its first year of activity.

The 10-year programme aims to unlock millions of pounds in investment, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities, and laying the foundations for thousands of high-quality jobs in the region.

Launched in October 2024 with £160 million of funding from the Government, EMIZ is designed to supercharge growth across the region by focusing on two key strengths: clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands Investment Zone provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the people in our region – and in just 12 months we are already seeing the results.

“Thanks to £160m of Government funding, we are investing in the skills, innovation, and infrastructure that will create thousands of well-paid jobs and make the East Midlands a magnet for clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.”

The programme aims to attract at least £383m in private sector investment and generate up to 4,300 skilled jobs – driving inclusive economic growth for communities in the region.

Investing in places, people, and potential

The first year of EMIZ has seen progress across its three designated strategic sites – Infinity Park in Derby, Hartington Staveley near Chesterfield, and Explore Park near Worksop – as well as a number of supporting projects across the wider region.

Key achievements include:

  • Hartington Commerce Park in Chesterfield: outline planning permission has been granted and initial work has started on industrial and warehouse developments on the 20-hectare site.
  • Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield: enabling works to support the region’s growing rail cluster.
  • Research & Innovation Sprint: the University of Nottingham has created innovation roadmaps and supported 15 cutting-edge projects testing innovative products and processes for the green economy and advanced manufacturing.
  • Skills Sprint: the University of Derby has shaped a skills pipeline to connect local people to high-value careers.
  • Nuclear Skills Academy: feasibility work on a second academy at Infinity Park Derby.

Together, these projects are helping to unlock brownfield land, boost local supply chains, and strengthen the region’s position as a leader in green growth and advanced manufacturing.

Mayor Claire continued: “This first year has built strong foundations for the future, and we are determined to go further – attracting more private investment, supporting local businesses to grow, and ensuring every community can share in the benefits of this new era for our region. This is inclusive growth in action.”

Next steps

As the East Midlands Investment Zone moves into its second year, the focus will be on:

  • Building the pipeline of new projects to keep up momentum.
  • Bringing forward investments identified in the EMIZ Strategy and Investment Plan for funding approval.
  • Working with local partners to deliver infrastructure, training programmes, and innovations which unlock further opportunities for residents and employers.

With its ambitious vision, strong local partnerships, and long-term commitment from Government, the East Midlands Investment Zone is set to keep powering growth in the region for the next decade and beyond.

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

More archaeological discoveries in Rykneld Square

Further archaeological discoveries have been made as part of the regeneration of Rykneld Square, offering a new window into Chesterfield’s past.

Work on the site was paused in July following the discovery of skeletal remains, so that archaeologists from the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) could carry out full excavations. Archaeological investigation is required as part of the planning process when burials are uncovered unexpectedly during construction.

During the first phase of work, ULAS uncovered walls and other significant finds that need careful investigation. As a result, the archaeological phase is taking longer than expected. Therefore, the completion of regeneration work in Rykneld Square will be delayed.

It is anticipated that archaeologists will be on site until at least December 2025. Full regeneration work will resume in 2026. A temporary surface will be placed on the site to allow the Remembrance Day parade to go ahead and support Christmas events planned around the church.

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

“We’re excited to uncover more of our town’s history, and it’s important we follow the correct process to investigate this discovery.
The archaeologists are doing difficult work, and I’d ask that everyone gives them space to work without disruption. More details about the finds made will be shared. Ensuring they are properly recorded at Chesterfield Museum.”

John Thomas, deputy director of ULAS, said:

“We are really pleased to be helping Chesterfield Borough Council with this excavation, which is uncovering important fragments of the town’s rich heritage. We’re also very excited to be working so close to such an iconic landmark as the Crooked Spire. So far, we have found stone walls from buildings close to the church dating back to at least the 17th century, as well as part of the former churchyard that was replanned in the 1950s. Work is still in the early stages, but ULAS will be presenting on the excavations at Derbyshire Archaeology Day in Chesterfield this January.”

The planned works in Rykneld Square aim to create a more welcoming public space. Visitors can enjoy views of the Crooked Spire.

These include brand new:

• Paving and surfaces to give the area a more modern feel
• Seating for visitors to use
• Planting helping enhance biodiversity
• A bin store to improve tidiness
• Upgraded pavement alongside the top of the square to create a level surface
• New bollards and a crossing point to make the area safer for pedestrians

The works form part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s “Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield” project, which aims to regenerate and enhance key public spaces across the town centre.

To find out more about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Heritage, Home

Community garden project to transform Chesterfield Station

A group of volunteers working with East Midlands Railway (EMR) are creating a bee-friendly garden at Chesterfield Railway Station to celebrate the town’s heritage and its links to the Peak District.

The Chesterfield Station Garden Renovation will feature storytelling elements, woven into the landscape, including sculptures and artwork created by local schools, colleges, and apprentices. These community contributions will reflect Chesterfield’s rich history – such as George Stephenson, the Crooked Spire, Chesterfield’s coat of arms, and even Lord Stanhope’s Chesterfield Sofa.

East Midlands Railway, which manages Chesterfield Station and runs the Station Adopter Scheme, has welcomed the initiative as a model of community collaboration.

Sam Smith, Community Ambassador, at East Midlands Railway said:

“Our Station Adopter Scheme is all about empowering local communities to shape their stations. The Chesterfield Garden project is a brilliant example of how creativity and collaboration can transform public spaces and enhance the passenger experience.”

Rekha Mistry, Head Gardener at Haddon Hall and Presenter on BBC Gardeners’ World recently joined the Chesterfield Station Adopter team and has been instrumental in shaping the vision. She said:

“A garden is much more than an outdoor space. It should tell a story, and Chesterfield has so many to share – from its industrial heritage to its natural beauty. This project is about creating a space that welcomes visitors, supports biodiversity, and connects the community through creativity and history.”

The garden will be located between platforms 2 and 3 and will include:

  • New landscaping with weed control sheeting, wood chippings, and planters
  • Bee-friendly planting to support biodiversity
  • Sculptural and artistic features designed by young people in the community

Work on the garden is expected to begin in November 2025, and completion of the basic landscaping and planting is scheduled for completion by March 2026.

Some initial work has already taken place, including the temporary relocation of plants and some clearing of weeds,  giving a glimpse of what’s to come.  The project element of the garden will be an ongoing programme with input from as many groups of young people as possible and could extend for two years.

The Chesterfield Station Adopter team run by EMR consists of 18 volunteers, supported by an additional team of around six volunteers from local charity Phoenix Futures. The project has already received pledges of support from Chesterfield Champions NT Killingley and Chesterfield College, Chesterfield Rotary and Network Rail.

The project has already secured funding from EMR’s Performance Improvement Fund, and an application has been made to Community Rail Network for a further grant with a total outstanding budget of approximately £5,000. Additional support is being sought to help expand the scope of the garden and involve more young people in its creation.

Gareth Dillon, Managing Director of NT Killingley said:

“We’re proud to support such a well-conceived local project that brings together horticulture, heritage, biodiversity, and community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to help young people contribute to something lasting and meaningful at the heart of Chesterfield.”

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Living in Chesterfield means being part of a community that values its heritage and invests in its future. This garden project is a perfect example of that spirit – transforming a key gateway into the town with creativity, pride, and collaboration. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase what makes Chesterfield special and to inspire further investment in our public spaces.”

Organisers are now inviting further support from local businesses, organisations, and individuals. Contributions of time, materials, funding, or mentorship for young participants are warmly welcomed.

Those interested in getting involved should contact Lead Station Adopter, Dominic Wish by email: dominic.wish@wishdesigns.co.uk.

Alternatively, follow the progress of the project on the Chesterfield Station Adopters Facebook page. and the Chesterfield Station Adopters LinkedIn page.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development