Development

New ‘makers’ space opens in town centre

17th March 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman, said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Construction Skills Hub Wins Prestigious National Award

13th March 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Awards round-up: East Midlands achievements spotlighted

12th March 2026

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

Chesterfield College hosts Skillsfest honouring rising stars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.chesterfield.ac.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

crowncaregroup.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

www.shorts.uk.com

BSP Consulting takes home tourism project award

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

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

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

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

www.bsp-consulting.co.uk

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

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

Business round-up: Whittam Cox rebrand, AMRC visit and NIBE’s 20th milestone

11th March 2026

Our Chesterfield Champion community continues to show the strength, innovation and ambition that makes our town a great place to invest, work and grow. From a major architecture practice unveiling a bold new brand, to advanced manufacturing developments attracting national attention, and a global heating technology company celebrating two decades in our town, these stories highlight the organisations helping to drive Chesterfield’s progress and profile.

Whittam Cox unveils new brand

Architecture practice Whittam Cox has launched a strategic rebrand built around the purpose “Progressive by design.”

The move comes after more than 50 years of working with clients and partners to shape places that support everyday urban life, with the practice saying its brand now reflects how its projects and thinking have evolved.

The refreshed identity aims to more clearly define who the practice is, how it works and the impact it wants to create in a fast-changing commercial, social and environmental landscape.

The new brand introduces clearer messaging, stronger project storytelling, more human-centred imagery and a new “Thinking” platform sharing insight and opinion from staff across the practice.

Nick Riley, managing executive director, said:

“Progressive by design reflects our purpose and direction as a practice. We’re building on a strong legacy and profile, but we know we can’t stand still.”

He added the focus remains on improving how the practice collaborates, designs and delivers projects to create places that support long-term value and everyday urban life.

While the brand has evolved, Whittam Cox said its core ethos ,collaboration, integrity, creativity and long-term relationships, remains unchanged. Retail continues to be part of its heritage, with urban residential shaping its future and a continued commercial focus.

whittamcox.com

Advanced manufacturing boost highlighted in visit

Advanced manufacturing is playing a growing role in the town’s economic future, highlighted by a visit from Chancellor Rachel Reeves to the AMRC’s COMPASS facility last month.

Mascot Management is contributing as delivery partner at the site, with director Jason Evans leading the factory fit-out. The company’s role includes construction management, safety governance and Principal Designer oversight to support the delivery of modern manufacturing space.

The visit reinforced the region’s rising national profile and the importance of high-quality industrial facilities that support innovation, skills development and long-term investment.

Mascot Management are working with the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to build on this momentum, supported by the £160m East Midlands Investment Zone launched in late 2024 to boost productivity and create high-value jobs.

EMCCA’s long-term vision places advanced manufacturing at the centre of regional growth, focusing on competitiveness, clean energy innovation and sustainable production.

A spokesperson during the visit said the region’s research strength, skilled delivery partners and strong local leadership provide “a powerful platform for innovation, investment and long-term competitiveness,” with the COMPASS facility highlighted as an example of the Midlands developing infrastructure to support the next generation of manufacturing.

www.mascotmanagement.co.uk

NIBE is marking 20 years in the UK and Chesterfield in 2026.

Since establishing its presence in our town in 2006, the Chesterfield site has grown into a central hub for the company’s UK operations, supporting customers, partners and installers nationwide.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, NIBE’s global brand ambassador Freddie Ljungberg will visit the Chesterfield training centre in April to meet staff and installers and take part in training activities.

The milestone also highlights the company’s continued investment in skills and training. Its training centre equips heating professionals with the knowledge to install and maintain modern heating systems, supporting the growing demand for skilled installers as the UK moves towards lower-carbon heating.

Alongside professional training, NIBE continues to develop local talent and create long-term career opportunities in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

The company also supports local causes through fundraising and volunteering, reinforcing its commitment to the community.

Marking two decades in Chesterfield, NIBE said it remains focused on investing in people, supporting skills development and contributing positively to the town as it looks ahead to further growth.

www.nibe.eu/en-gb

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

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

East Midlands showcases investment strength at MIPIM 2026

9th March 2026

The East Midlands is aiming to strengthen its position on the international investment map as Mayor Claire Ward heads to major global property conference MIPIM.

The Mayor will lead a regional delegation to MIPIM 2026 to promote our regions investment potential. MIPIM is the world’s leading real estate investment event, attracting more than 20,000 delegates from 90 countries.

MIPIM brings together investors, developers and city planners to discuss trends in regional markets, AI, housing, data centres, hospitality, and climate-related challenges.

EMCCA is showcasing two major investment opportunities at the five-day event – Trent Arc and the East Midlands Supercluster.

Trent Arc spans the Derby to Nottingham corridor and the industrial heartland between them. The development could deliver 30,000 homes, 40,000 jobs and 2.7 million sq ft of commercial space, generating £2.4 billion in regional growth.

The Supercluster covers three former power station sites along the River Trent in Nottinghamshire. Cottam, High Marnham and West Burton are being repositioned at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy future, with West Burton home to the UK’s world-leading STEP Fusion prototype power plant, backed by £1.3 billion of Government investment.

The Supercluster will be a global commercial destination, with a discovery centre, sustainable transport and more than 6,500 homes, leveraging its scale and technical expertise in clean energy and industrial innovation.

EMCCA’s Vision for Growth identifies five further spatial development areas that will support an ambitious and investable East Midlands, including the Canal Corridor. The Corridor is highlighted as a key strategic area, with Chesterfield and Staveley positioned to benefit significantly.

For Chesterfield and Staveley, the Canal Corridor represents a major regeneration opportunity, with the potential to deliver 3,900 new homes, 7,800 jobs and £473 million in annual GVA. The restoration and modernisation of the historic canal will create a strategic link between the town, key innovation sites and wider clean‑energy clusters, supporting long‑term economic diversification, improved connectivity and the development of new communities and infrastructure.

The region also has a strong and active market in logistics and light industry, while EMCCA is also actively seeking partners to help deliver new housing and Grade A office space, as well as building the pipeline for the next generation of sectors. Strengths in civil nuclear and defence are internationally recognised, led by Rolls-Royce.

MIPIM will take place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France, from 9-13 March.

For more information on the canal corridor and other investments happening in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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

Funding supports Chesterfield Glow Up and regional projects

4th March 2026

Thousands of pounds has been awarded to transform dozens of businesses, organisations and projects including Chesterfield glow up, across the East Midlands thanks to our region’s Mayor.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), led by Mayor Clare Ward, aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “It’s fantastic to see how investment from the UKSPF is making a real difference to communities across the East Midlands.

“UKSPF has been a vital source of local investment and I’m pleased it is continuing this year while government develops its successor. The £25m allocated to the East Midlands will sustain jobs that support community-led services and drive the regeneration of our town and village centres – boosting growth while keeping our places attractive to visitors and investors.”

Recent projects supported by the fund include an arts trail, rural grants and a town centre light show — with the latest event, Chesterfield Glow Up, set to take place this month.

Chesterfield Town Centre celebration – Funding is helping the town ‘Glow Up’ with a special celebration marking the completion of the multi‑million‑pound transformation of our Chesterfield Markets.

Residents and visitors are invited to come together for an evening event that will illuminate the town centre and welcome back the giant observation wheel. The event will run on 27–28 March, from 4–8pm each day, featuring entertainment, family‑friendly activities and a light show.

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

“This event is a fantastic way to mark a major milestone in the regeneration of our Market and to welcome people back into a space that has been completely transformed.”

At the heart of the event is Twist and Shout, an immersive projection artwork that will light up the Market Hall.

Other projects across the region include:

Amber Valley – Ay Up Me Duck Eight – large decorated duck sculptures have been installed across the four market towns to boost footfall and civic pride, supported by UKSPF.
Broxtowe – Creating a Buzz – The Beeston Bee Trail has expanded with six more businesses joining the map and additional prizes, building on the trail’s early success.
Newark & Sherwood – Rural Growth – More than £267,000 in UKSPF-backed rural grants has been awarded to support local businesses and community organisations.
High Peak – Visitor Engagement £10,000 from the UKSPF is helping Buxton Civic Association enhance visitor interpretation and conservation at Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park.

For more information on Chesterfield Glow Up, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-glow-up

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

Conference to showcase the community impact of Chesterfield’s regeneration

3rd March 2026

Chesterfield’s regeneration and cultural scene will take centre stage next month when Celebrate Chesterfield returns to the Winding Wheel Theatre on 18 March.

Delivered by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with Stepnell and Vines Legal, this year’s event will explore how investment across the borough is creating new opportunities, improving local places and strengthening communities. The theme for 2026 focuses on inclusive growth, emphasising the real and measurable benefits regeneration brings to local people.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“There is real progress happening across Chesterfield, not only through regeneration, but through the pride, partnership and creativity shown by our communities. Celebrate Chesterfield is about sharing that progress and looking confidently to the future.”

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, will outline the impact of the multi-million‑pound Town Deal and how its projects are helping to reshape the area.

He said:

“It’s important people can see and feel the difference investment is making. These improvements will benefit residents for generations, strengthening community pride and economic resilience. The Town Deal is helping to make Staveley a thriving place to live, work and invest.”

Chesterfield Borough Council Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, will reflect on the borough’s progress over the last 18 years, sharing an update on key regeneration milestones and future priorities.

A live panel discussion featuring Stepnell, Vines Legal and Chesterfield College Group will also explore how local organisations are embedding social value into their work, from new skills and training opportunities to stronger local supply chains.

The event will shine a light on Chesterfield’s growing cultural and creative sector, highlighting its role in shaping the town’s identity, supporting wellbeing and attracting investment. Recent developments in arts, events and creative industries will be showcased as part of the wider story of the borough’s transformation.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:
“I am looking forward to welcoming more businesses to this annual event, which once again showcases everything special and unique about our borough. Chesterfield is not standing still. Working together, we will continue to grow our economy and create opportunities for our residents.”

Tickets for Celebrate Chesterfield are free and available at www.chesterfield.co.uk/celebrate

Running alongside the conference, the Celebrate Chesterfield Business Expo, held in association with East Midlands Chamber, will give businesses the opportunity to meet more than 200 delegates, make new connections and explore collaboration opportunities. Expo stand bookings are now open at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/exhibitor-booking-form

Image credit – Steel City Drone Pilot

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Stay, Visiting

Saints Bar in town centre prepares to open next month

2nd March 2026

One of our town centre’s oldest buildings is set for a dramatic revival as Saints Bar prepares to open its doors by the end of March.

The striking property, which dates back to the 1400s, is being transformed into a new venue that will combine historic character with live music and a welcoming social atmosphere. After years of standing empty, the long-neglected site is now on course to become a vibrant addition to the heart of the town.

The site has undergone months of intensive renovation after standing empty since the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time, it was vandalised and left in an extremely poor condition. The upstairs area had been badly trashed, with smashed doors throughout and graffiti covering the walls.

The refurbishment required a complete strip-out of the interior. The electrics had been entirely removed, meaning the building needed a full rewire. Even the meter had been cut out, forcing the new owners to install a replacement. For the first two months after taking ownership, there was no electricity on site, making progress especially challenging.

Despite the setbacks, work has continued at pace to restore and revitalise the centuries-old building. The focus has been on preserving its historic character while creating a fresh, vibrant venue ready to welcome customers back into the town centre.

With the finishing touches now underway, Saints Bar is looking ahead to opening at the end of March, bringing new energy, live entertainment and a revived sense of community to a long-quiet corner of the town.

The owners say Saints Bar is designed to be more than just another place to drink. Instead, the focus is on the connection between friends, artists, locals and visitors, creating a venue that feels familiar, lively and inclusive.

“The town centre location was a key factor in the decision to open Saints Bar. Its position among other established venues, strong pedestrian access and proximity to the train station make it ideally placed to contribute positively to Chesterfield’s evening economy.”

The drinks offering will include a range of signature cocktails developed exclusively for Saints Bar by an experienced cocktail specialist, alongside classic cocktails, locally sourced beers and ales, and a carefully selected range of mid- to high-end spirits and wines. Plans are also in place to apply for permission to install a kitchen area, allowing the venue to offer a small selection of high-quality food such as artisan pizzas, cheese boards and tapas-style dishes.

Looking ahead, Saints Bar plans to host a variety of themed events and live entertainment, including music-led nights, line dancing, ladies’ nights and murder mystery evenings designed to make the most of the building’s historic character. The team is also considering dedicated evenings for hospitality and bar industry workers, offering discounted rates as a way of supporting others in the sector.

Supporting local businesses is another priority. Saints Bar aims to work with local producers and suppliers wherever possible and is exploring rotating bar lines to showcase a range of regional beers and products.

Early feedback from the community has been very positive, with residents keen to see the historic building brought back into active use. The owners hope Saints Bar will become a well-loved town centre destination, a place that enhances Chesterfield’s night-time offer while celebrating its heritage.

Updates on the progress of Saints Bar can be found on the venue’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com

For more independent bars and restaurants within Chesterfield, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk

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

Vistry teams up with Sage Homes as work begins on 163-home Mastin Moor development

19th February 2026

Work has officially begun on a 163-home development at Mastin Moor, as Vistry, the UK’s leading mixed-tenure housebuilder, moves forward with plans for the area.

The scheme is being delivered in partnership with Sage Homes, England’s largest provider of newly built affordable housing, and will bring a broad mix of properties aimed at meeting local demand.

Located to the east of Bolsover Road, the project forms part of a wider 650-home masterplan being led by Devonshire Property Group. The larger development includes proposals for specialist later-living accommodation, a new local centre, significant areas of parkland and an extension to the existing community garden.

The site is also home to the Construction Skills Hub, run by Chesterfield College, further linking the development to local training and employment opportunities.

Andrew Byrne, Director of Devonshire Property Group, and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Seeing this second phase of Mastin Moor commence is a huge step forward in the delivery of the wider masterplan. We are delighted to welcome Vistry and their partner Sage Homes to Mastin Moor and Chesterfield. Their commitment to the provision of affordable homes to rent or buy, helping create diverse and vibrant communities, is a key factor in the partnership and something that aligns with the core values of the Devonshire Group. Vistry’s use of timber frame buildings also demonstrates their commitment to creating sustainable homes for the future. We wish them well.”

Dave Bradley, Managing Director of Vistry North Midlands, said:

“We’re thrilled to be moving forward with this project, which is all about creating opportunities for local people. Our focus is on building not just 163 high-quality homes, but a thriving, inclusive community where families can grow and friendships can flourish. We’re committed to working closely with our partner Sage, local authorities, and residents to ensure this development delivers real value for Mastin Moor and the wider Chesterfield area.”

Alex Dawkins, Acquisitions Director, Sage Homes, said:

“We are pleased to extend our partnership with Vistry and, as England’s largest provider of newly built affordable homes, are proud to be providing much needed high quality, energy efficient, affordable homes for people on the local authority’s housing waiting list.”

Vistry will continue to work with local stakeholders throughout the construction process to ensure the new neighbourhood reflects community aspirations and supports long‑term growth in the region.

To keep up to date on the 163-home development at Mastin Moor and the latest developments happening in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/news/

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home

Champions celebrate milestones across housing, tourism and legal sectors

18th February 2026

Our Chesterfield Champions are celebrating a series of major milestones across housing, tourism and professional services, highlighting continued investment and growth across our borough.

Chesterfield’s housing improvement programme has reached a major milestone, with the first 100 kitchens and bathrooms completed under a borough-wide refurbishment scheme.

Chesterfield Borough Council and RE:GEN Yorkshire and East Midlands are celebrating the landmark launch of the Chesterfield Kitchens and Bathrooms Contract, which took place last July. The programme will deliver 300 kitchens and 200 bathrooms each year, modernising council homes and improving living standards for residents.

Each property receives a full upgrade, including electrical rewiring, LED lighting, slip-resistant flooring, refreshed walls and ceilings, upgraded plumbing and drainage, improved ventilation, modern fixtures and fittings, and enhanced fire safety systems.

Residents have praised the professionalism of RE:GEN’s trades teams and the customer care provided throughout the works.

James Taylor, Operations Director at RE:GEN Yorkshire & East Midlands, said:

“Reaching the first 100 completed projects is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of the collaboration and hard work between our teams. “By establishing our base at Prospect House, we’re also creating local jobs and delivering long-term social value for Chesterfield.”

With a strong foundation now in place, the partnership is set to deliver hundreds more refurbishments over the next two years.

Chesterfield’s visitor economy is also set for a boost with the launch of a new luxury accessible holiday property.

Havendale, created by Chesterfield Champion, AccessibleUK’s director Gillian Scotford and her husband Russell, will officially open on 28 February 2026, with the High Sheriff of Derbyshire and the Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield attending the ceremony. The architecturally designed self-catering bungalow is believed to be the first accessible property of its kind in the town.

With one in four people in the UK having access requirements, the development reflects the growing importance of inclusive tourism locally and nationally.

AccessibleUK, founded by Gillian in 2014, is a Chesterfield-based access consultancy and training organisation with a national profile. She also established the Accessible Derbyshire website in 2012, which has become a recognised model for accessible destination information.

Havendale has been designed to provide smooth level access throughout while maintaining a high-quality residential feel. Located close to the town centre, it offers easy access to transport links, the Peak District, major local attractions, healthcare facilities and Chesterfield’s historic market.

Speaking about the project, Gillian Scotford said:

“For many families and individuals with access requirements taking a break away from home can be stressful rather than restorative. Havendale has been created to show that accessibility dignity and comfort can exist together and that inclusive design benefits everyone.”

The property will also serve as a practical example within AccessibleUK’s consultancy work, demonstrating how accessibility improvements can be delivered within existing buildings.

Chesterfield-based law firm CMP Legal is marking five years in business alongside a series of award successes and team milestones.

Founded in March 2021, the firm has grown from four founders to a team of 13 and counting, building a strong presence across employment law, litigation, dispute resolution and corporate and commercial matters.

In January, the firm marked four years since Harriet Flowers and Ameilia Bacon joined as its first employees. February also marked three years since Lauren Pickard joined as Executive Director, leading the development of the employment law offering.

CMP Legal has secured multiple awards, including Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year at the Sheffield and District Law Society Awards in 2024 and 2025, and Niche Law Firm of the Year in 2025. The firm has also progressed from Tier 4 to Tier 3 in the Legal 500 rankings for Corporate and Commercial work in the East Midlands.

Anna Cattee, Executive Director, said:

“Reaching 5 years is a real milestone for us. It reflects the commitment of our team, the trust of our clients and the support of the wide business community. We are proud of what has been achieved so far and are focused on continuing to build our team, investing in our people and supporting the next stage of the firm’s growth.”

The firm has also been shortlisted in several categories at this year’s Sheffield and District Law Society Awards.

Prince Family Law has announced that Michelle Cooper has joined the team.

Michelle previously founded Acclaimed Family Law in 2015 and is recognised for handling complex and high net worth cases. Her accolades include Inspirational Woman of the Year 2020, Yorkshire Prestige Award 2021, Sheffield Law Society Family Law Team of the Year 2022 and Partner of the Year 2024.

David Prince, Managing Director of Prince Family Law, said it is exciting Michelle is joining the team, adding that they share the same ethos, having both opened niche family law firms dealing with complex and high net worth cases.

RE:GEN Yorkshire & East Midlands, AccessibleUK, CMP Legal and Prince Family Law all support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Local firm supports Chesterfield railway heritage project

16th February 2026

Local legal firm Graysons Solicitors is continuing to support a major heritage initiative celebrating the town’s pivotal role in the birth of the modern railway, focusing on the legacy of George Stephenson, the famed ‘Father of Railways.’

George Stephenson played a key role in the development of modern rail transport and spent part of his early career working in the Chesterfield area, where he helped shape the engineering foundations that would later revolutionise railways across Britain. Stephenson is buried at Holy Trinity Church in Chesterfield, which now serves as the focal point for a major heritage initiative celebrating both his achievements and the town’s industrial past.

Led by Holy Trinity Church, the project has received a £240,600 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from local organisations including Chesterfield-based legal firm Graysons Solicitors.

The initiative marks the 200th anniversary of the first steam-powered passenger railway journey, made by Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 in 1825, and highlights our town’s industrial past, from rail to coal.

Work is well underway to transform Holy Trinity’s community rooms into a visitor facility, complemented by new interpretation displays, public events, school programmes, and volunteering opportunities, all designed to share Stephenson’s engineering achievements and the wider story of the town’s industrial heritage.

Peter Clark, managing partner at Graysons Solicitors, said:

“We’re delighted to be supporting a project that celebrates both Chesterfield’s rich heritage and one of the greatest engineering figures in British history. George Stephenson’s legacy continues to inspire, and we’re proud to help bring that story to life for future generations in the town we’ve called home for many years.”

The project also commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, connecting the town’s past industries with contemporary conversations around sustainability and the future of engineering.

To find out more, please visit: www.graysons.co.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Heritage, Home, Visiting