Development

Refurbishment works complete at Chesterfield theatre and museum

The refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall has transformed the historic Chesterfield venue ahead of its reopening as 1435 later this year.

The transformation of the landmark theatre and museum will see the venue reopen with a 625-seat theatre, an expanded museum with improved facilities for hosting prestigious touring works, two bars and flexible spaces for meetings and events.

The new design preserves the heritage of the building while modernising its facilities to enhance the visitor experience.

Works began in December 2023, with Chesterfield Borough Council’s contractor G F Tomlinson officially handing the building back to the council last week.

The council will now complete the finishing touches ahead of the reopening, including moving museum objects and furnishings back into the building and carrying out staff training.

Chesterfield’s annual pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, will kick off the new venue’s programme, with more shows and museum exhibitions to follow.

1435 theatre stage

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

“We cannot wait to welcome residents and visitors into 1435 later this year. The completion of building works is a major step towards reopening and allows us to start preparing the venue ready for visitors to experience it later this year.

“The transformation of this building will help ensure that future generations can experience heritage and culture in an incredible setting, but we’ve worked hard to ensure that there will still be lots of features that our regular visitors know and love.

“This is an ambitious project for Chesterfield, and it will ensure that we can attract more visitors through an expanded cultural offering in this wonderful building.”

The refurbishment has transformed the space into a modern visitor attraction while preserving the building and safeguarding it for future generations.

The works have included creating a new internal layout, rewiring the entire building, installing a new heating and ventilation system, a new roof and carrying out structural works.

Andy Sewards, Chairman of G F Tomlinson, said:

“We are proud to have played a key role in the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall into 1435, helping to bring new life to one of Chesterfield’s most important historic buildings. This has been a complex and rewarding project, carefully balancing the preservation of the building’s heritage with the delivery of modern, high-quality facilities that will serve the community for generations to come.

“Working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and the wider project team, we are delighted to see the completed venue ready to support arts, culture and community activity in the town centre. 1435 is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through strong partnership and a commitment to creating a vibrant, accessible and future-ready destination for Chesterfield.”

Introducing 1435

To mark the start of the building’s new future while celebrating its long history, the venue will open as 1435, a name inspired by one of George Stephenson’s greatest innovations: the standard gauge rail track.

Set 1435mm apart, this became the global benchmark for rail travel, carrying people, ideas and opportunities across continents. That same spirit of connection sits at the heart of 1435, which will bring visitors together through arts, culture and heritage while creating fresh links across the community.

Railways reshaped the world – and they reshaped Chesterfield too. The transformed venue now plays a central role in the council’s wider regeneration of the town centre, designed to welcome new audiences and create vibrant spaces that serve local people for years to come.

Councillor Tricia Gilby added:

“Our new identity marks the start of the next chapter for this building. 1435 looks forward while still honouring the past. We want this venue to be a place where connections across the community can be forged, and we wanted to ensure that this aim is reflected in the name.”

Funding the refurbishment

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

East Midlands Combined County Authority’s capital grants programme has provided £1 million of funding for the refurbishment.

Arts Council England has contributed over £600,000 towards the new ventilation system and Changing Places toilet.

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

Find out what’s on at Chesterfield Theatres and across Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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

Revitalisation of Corporation Street completed

The transformation of Corporation Street, a key gateway into our town centre, has been completed, creating an improved welcome for visitors arriving by train.

Chesterfield Borough Council has redeveloped Corporation Street with new paving, lighting and street furniture. The road now features a new layout with wider pavements and a new one-way system, making the street more pedestrian-friendly.

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

“These works will help ensure visitors to our borough arriving by train will have a fantastic welcome to the town centre. It will also enhance the street as a destination for the night-time economy and provide a fantastic entrance to 1435 when it reopens later this year.”

The works to Corporation Street have been delivered by public realm specialists Maylim. Some small elements of the road are still to be completed before it can reopen to traffic in early September.

Corporation Street

Liam Hawkins, managing director at Maylim, said:

“We are incredibly proud to have delivered the transformation of Corporation Street, creating a safer, more welcoming and pedestrian-friendly gateway into Chesterfield town centre. This project has particular personal significance for me being born and raised in Chesterfield and still spending a lot of time in the town, and we can see Corporation Street from our Midlands & North office in the Northern Gateway building.

“The project has been led for Maylim by our Senior Project Manager, Tom Taylor, who is also from Chesterfield and continues to live in the town, giving its successful delivery an added sense of local pride. The high quality achieved throughout—from the paving, lighting and street furniture to the careful detailing and overall finish—is a testament to the expertise, care and commitment of Maylim.

“We are delighted to have worked collaboratively with Chesterfield Borough Council and our project partners to deliver an important investment that will make a lasting difference to the town and look forward to supporting future public realm improvements in the area.”

The regeneration of Corporation Street is part of the council’s Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project. This major investment in the town centre has included the transformation of Chesterfield Market and Packers Row, along with improvements to lighting across the town centre.

Councillor Kate Sarvent added:

“Our project to revitalise the town centre has transformed public spaces and created better connections across the town. This will open our town centre up for other uses like events and ensure it is an attractive place for both visitors and our community to experience.”

Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield also includes enhancing Rykneld Square. Works began last year but have been delayed due to archaeological discoveries which have led to design changes. Work is expected to restart on site soon.

The project is funded through an almost £20 million grant from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which has been shared between town centre regeneration works and the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall. Around £9 million has been used for the town centre works, with additional funding from Chesterfield Borough Council.

Find out more about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/revitalising-heart-of-chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Home, Visiting

New 65-acre development site launched at Hartington Commerce Park

A new 65-acre development site at Hartington Commerce Park in Staveley has launched, offering up to 410,000 sq ft of industrial, distribution and manufacturing space.

Hartington Commerce Park, which is part of the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ), can accommodate bespoke occupier requirements from 20,000 to 410,000 sq ft.

Located in Staveley, the site benefits from a new entrance off Hall Lane and offers easy access to junctions 29a and 30 of the M1.

Developer Tawnywood has remediated the site and constructed the new entrance off Hall Lane, meaning the site is now immediately developable.

Rebecca Schofield, partner from Knight Frank, which is marketing the site, said:

“Hartington Commerce Park offers flexibility across the site, able to accommodate industrial, manufacturing and distribution opportunities.

“Requirements from 20,000 sq ft up to 410,000 sq ft can be accommodated on site, with units available to let or for sale on completion.

“It is well located with easy access to J29a and J30 of the M1 and has the added advantage of being located in the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) where qualifying occupiers could benefit from additional financial support such as grants, business rates retention and tax incentives. Supporting businesses to scale, innovate, and thrive in the area.”

Simon White from property investor and developer Tawnywood, which has a solid track record of working in Chesterfield, said:

“After several years since purchasing this site, we spent time extracting the coal and mineral measures beneath it and then restoring the land for commercial development. We are delighted to launch the redevelopment phase of the scheme.

“At the moment we are completing the major infrastructure works, including the provision of a significant 5mVa power supply.

“We are particularly excited to have been granted Investment Zone status by EMCCA, which offers qualifying occupiers a number of very valuable financial benefits and will help kick-start this major new employment-creating scheme.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said:

“The Hartington site offers a fantastic opportunity for businesses to establish themselves in our borough and provides some great advantages to businesses. We’ve supported this development through the Town Deal to create new jobs for local people and ensure that Staveley is a place where people can start, stay and grow.”

Supporting growth in Staveley

Hartington Commerce Park is located on the northern edge of Staveley, north-east of Chesterfield and is easily accessible from the M1 motorway at J29a and J30. J29a is an established motorway junction at Markham Vale allowing easy access to the wider road network with the A38 and M18 interchange within easy reach.

The surrounding area is an established location with occupiers including AVK Donkin, Brett Martin and Ariel Plastics.

The EMIZ, backed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) was launched in October 2024 with £160 million of Government funding and is designed to supercharge growth across the region by focusing on two key strengths: clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.

The 10-year programme aims to unlock at least £383m in private sector investment, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities, and generating up to 4,300 high-quality skilled jobs in the region.

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 plus a number of supporting projects across the wider region.

Explore more development projects involved in the Staveley Town Deal, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

Businesses looking to invest, expand or relocate can find information on the support available, including funding, grants and business advice, by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Starbucks to open second Chesterfield drive-thru at Alma Leisure Park

A new Starbucks drive-thru will open at Chesterfield’s Alma Leisure Park on Thursday, 17th September, 2026, adding another major name to the popular leisure destination.

The new store, which will occupy the former Frankie & Benny’s unit, will officially open its doors at 10:00am, bringing Starbucks to another prominent location in Chesterfield.

The opening will expand Starbucks’ presence in our town, following the launch of its Meltham Lane drive-thru near Whittington Moor in March 2023. The Meltham Lane store continues to offer drive-thru facilities, alongside mobile ordering and other Starbucks services.

Alma Leisure Park is already home to a range of well-known food and leisure brands, including Dunkin’, McDonald’s and Nando’s, with the new Starbucks adding to the choice available to visitors.

The grand opening will have a strong community focus, with Chesterfield Champion arts charity Junction Arts taking part in the celebrations.

Junction Arts will perform the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting the partnership between Starbucks and the local charity.

Rhianna Mayhew, Store Manager at Starbucks Alma Leisure Park, said:

“We are honoured to have Junction Arts performing our official ribbon-cutting ceremony! This partnership highlights our deep commitment to community engagement and celebrates the vital role creativity and the arts play within our barista team.”

Hannah, Development Manager at Junction Arts, will also lead a creative crafting activity at the store, with the session raising funds to support the charity’s community work.

The opening will also offer something for early visitors, with the first 50 customers receiving goody bags containing Starbucks merchandise, premium coffee and discount vouchers.

Starbucks is one of the world’s best-known coffee brands, with stores across the globe serving coffee, speciality drinks and food. The new Alma Leisure Park location will offer customers the option of using the drive-thru as well as visiting the store.

The new opening is also part of further plans for Starbucks in Chesterfield, with another branch planned for Chatsworth Road. The new location is expected to open in spring 2027, further expanding the brand’s presence across the town.

The continued investment from well-known food and drink brands adds to the growing mix of businesses at Alma Leisure Park, strengthening its role as a destination for food, drink and leisure for people in Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

Discover more food and drink businesses to try in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

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

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall reopens following major refurbishment

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall has officially reopened following a major refurbishment, creating a modern community hub for residents.

The refurbished hall features a community pantry, bar and café, family hub, physical activity space and health hub, providing residents with opportunities to access support services, socialise and stay active.

The hall was officially reopened on Saturday, 22nd August 2026, at a community event which brought residents together to celebrate the refreshed space.

Originally built as a workmen’s hall in 1863, the refurbishment has been led by Barrow Hill Community Trust with funding from the Staveley Town Deal and East Midlands Combined County Authority, among others.

Charles Paxton Markham donated the building to the community as a war memorial in the 1920s, and a trust has managed it ever since.

Simon Redding, chairperson of Barrow Hill Community Trust CIO, said:

“It is wonderful to see the first phase of the Memorial Hall refurbishment finished, with local people enjoying the facilities and benefiting from the new services on offer. As a community-led charity, we will continue to develop these services hand in hand with local people – who are at the heart of all that we do.”

Funding through the Staveley Town Deal has supported the creation of the new health hub and social space, alongside improvements to the building, including its roof, heating and electrical systems. These upgrades will support future phases of development.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said:

“The Trust have created a fantastic hub that will make a real difference in the community. This refurbishment will give the building a new lease of life and provide an inviting space where everyone in the community can access a wide range of services. Our aim through the Staveley Town Deal has been to create a place where people can start, stay and grow – this project embodies that by ensuring members of the community can thrive at every stage of their life.”

East Midlands Combined County Authority funding has been used to create the family hub and physical activity space, as well as providing match funding to support further bids to refurbish the first floor.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when communities have the investment they need to shape their own future. This refurbishment has breathed new life into an important local building, creating a welcoming space where people can meet, stay active, access support, and build connections.

“I’m delighted that money from my investment fund has helped create the new family hub and physical activity space, while supporting the Trust to unlock further investment. I’m committed to backing projects that strengthen our communities and help make the East Midlands a place where people are proud to live, work, and raise a family.”

Barrow Hill Community Trust is planning further phases of the refurbishment, which will focus on the first floor and include a reading room and community venue.

Discover more developments taking place across Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Find out more about Barrow Hill Community Trust: www.barrowhill.community/home

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield Canal restoration progress showcased to more than 200 people

More than 200 people have seen the progress of the Chesterfield Canal restoration in Staveley, with the latest section of works now nearing completion.

On Tuesday, 18th August 2026, the Chesterfield Canal Trust led guided walks through the restoration site, allowing visitors to see the engineering work taking place along a 450-metre section of the historic waterway.

A group of journalists were taken through the site in the morning, before members of the public were welcomed in the afternoon. Demand for the public walks was high, with all 180 tickets sold in less than 24 hours.

Rod Auton, Company Secretary, Publicity and Membership for Chesterfield Canal Trust, said:

“It was fantastic to see such a strong response to the opportunity to visit the restoration works, with all 180 public tickets selling in less than 24 hours. It was a great opportunity to show people the progress that has been made and give them a first-hand look at the work taking place to bring this section of the Chesterfield Canal back to life.

There is a huge amount of work involved in restoring this short section, so it was particularly rewarding to share the progress with the people who have been following the project.”

The works form part of a wider £6 million restoration project, supported largely through the £25.2 million Staveley Town Deal. The project is helping to reinstate a section of the canal, alongside improvements to the surrounding routes and infrastructure.

Bringing the canal back to life

Although the section being restored is relatively short, it includes a number of complex engineering features.

The former Hartington Railway Bridge abutments have been reinforced with a concrete base, while the new Keith Ayling Lock is being installed further along the route.

The lock features gates made from Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP), using recycled wind turbine blades. The Trust believes these are the first gates of their kind to be used on a narrow canal in the UK.

A specially designed pumping system is also being installed to raise the water level into the restored section. It has been designed to allow fish and eels to pass through safely.

Further along, work is taking place around the foundations of a former mineral railway bridge, while the future Bellhouse Bridge will feature a stop gate allowing a section of canal to be drained quickly if required.

Bellhouse Basin is also being reconstructed at its original height, around two metres above the level to which it had previously subsided.

The restoration is an important part of the wider regeneration of Staveley, helping to bring the historic waterway back into use while creating improved routes through the area.

With the latest works nearing completion, the walks provided a first-hand look at the scale and complexity of the work taking place to bring this section of the canal back to life.

For more information on the canal restoration and more developments taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/chesterfield-canal-restoration/

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

Chesterfield Champions invest in talent, growth and visitor economy

From supporting apprentices to take the next step in their careers, to welcoming new talent and expanding accommodation for visitors, the latest developments highlight how our Chesterfield Champions are contributing to the town’s continued growth.

Paragon Products grows future talent through apprenticeship

Chesterfield-based Paragon Products is supporting its future growth by appointing former apprentice Natasha Mills as Marketing Executive.

The family-owned business has more than 37 years of industry experience, supplying cleaning products and solutions to sectors including transport, education, construction, facilities management and the public sector.

During her apprenticeship, Natasha was trusted with significant projects, allowing her to gain practical experience and take on responsibility from an early stage.

She said:

“Paragon has supported me throughout my apprenticeship by providing a supportive and trusting working environment where I’ve been encouraged to grow and develop professionally. From an early stage, I was given the opportunity to take ownership of significant projects, which accelerated my learning and helped me build both my confidence and my skills.”

Natasha would recommend an apprenticeship to others, highlighting the value of combining workplace experience with learning.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to others because it gives you a genuine insight into the career path you’ve chosen from day one. You’re able to learn the fundamentals of the industry while gaining real workplace experience, which is something that can’t always be replicated in a classroom environment.”

Having completed her apprenticeship, Natasha has now moved into her Marketing Executive role, where she will take on greater responsibility as she continues her career with the business.

She added:

“This next chapter represents an exciting new challenge as I move into my role as Marketing Executive at Paragon. It’s an opportunity to take on greater responsibility, continue developing my skills and build on everything I’ve learned throughout my apprenticeship.”

Natasha’s progression provides an example of how apprenticeships can help businesses retain and develop talent, while creating opportunities for employees to build their careers within the organisation.

Paragon Products, former apprentice Natasha Mills, Marketing Executive.

New Peak Edge accommodation offers a base for Peak District escapes

A new private retreat at Peak Edge Hotel is offering visitors a place to stay while exploring both the Peak District and Chesterfield, with countryside attractions and our town centre within easy reach.

Bramble Barn, the latest accommodation at Peak Edge Hotel, can sleep up to 11 guests across four bedrooms, making it suited to families, groups of friends and those planning a special occasion.

The barn combines traditional character with modern comforts, with spacious living areas providing plenty of room for guests to relax and spend time together.

Its location puts guests within easy reach of the Peak District, with walking routes and countryside attractions nearby. After exploring the area, guests can return to the barn’s private hot tub and enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Just a short stroll from Bramble Barn, the award-winning Red Lion Restaurant offers seasonal dishes inspired by the local area, using ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“Bramble Barn gives us something a little different at Peak Edge. We know that lots of our guests want to visit the Peak District with extended family or groups of friends, but still want the comfort and experience of staying somewhere special. The barn gives them their own private space where everyone can stay together, with the countryside on the doorstep and the Red Lion and everything at Peak Edge just a short walk away.”

 

SMH Mitchells continues growth with five new appointments

Chesterfield accountancy firm SMH Mitchells has welcomed five new team members as it continues to invest in its people and support the firm’s long-term growth.

Part of the wider SMH Group, the firm has strengthened its audit and tax teams with experienced professionals, graduates and university placement students.

Arbaaz Yaseen joined in June as an ACA-qualified Audit Senior, bringing five years’ experience from another accountancy practice. He was encouraged to join after speaking with former colleagues now working at SMH Mitchells.

Dawn Thomson joined the audit team as a graduate after previously applying for a placement with the firm and gaining experience in corporate finance. A positive impression of the business and conversations with trainees at a university careers event encouraged her to return.

Azizur Rahman joined  as a university placement student, attracted by the opportunities available through the wider SMH Group.

Finlay Zartarian will join in September, impressed by the firm’s track record of supporting placement students throughout their studies and into permanent roles.

Ella Gascoigne joined in May to continue studying towards her ATT qualification after working in the legal sector, attracted by the opportunity to continue her qualifications within a business that supports learning and development.

David Waining, Senior Manager at SMH Mitchells, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Ella, Arbaaz, Dawn, Azizur and Finlay to the team. Although they’re all joining us at different stages of their careers, they each recognised the same thing, that SMH Mitchells is a place where people are supported, encouraged to develop and given opportunities to progress.

Being part of the wider SMH Group allows us to offer the best of both worlds. We’re committed to continuing that investment in our people as we grow.”

As the business continues to grow, SMH Mitchells remains focused on creating an environment where talented people can thrive, develop their careers, and contribute to the long-term success of both the firm and its clients.

Looking to grow your business? Complete our form to be connected with an advisor who can offer guidance and support to help your business grow: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Paragon Products, Peak Edge Hotel and SMH Mitchells are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Leisure

Triangle Kia opens new facility following £1.5m Chesterfield investment

Chesterfield-based Triangle Kia has opened a new aftersales facility following a £1.5m investment, creating 11 new jobs and supporting the business’s continued growth.

Located on Duke Street, the new facility, now known as ‘The Kia Building’, provides MOT, servicing and general aftersales support for Kia’s passenger car and PBV ranges.

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, officially opened the facility on Friday, 31st July, marking the latest development for the long-standing Chesterfield dealership.

Triangle Kia has represented the Kia franchise since 2008 and was recently appointed as a Kia PBV Centre, selling and servicing Kia’s electric van range.

Alongside the new facility, the investment will support the increased number of vehicles passing through the business and the creation of new jobs within the local workforce

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, said:

“It’s a pleasure to be here in Chesterfield to officially open Triangle Kia’s impressive new aftersales facility,” said Paul Philpott, President & CEO, Kia UK Limited, who was welcomed to the site by David Dench, Triangle Kia’s Managing Director, and his colleagues. “David and his team have built a reputation for doing things the right way, investing in their business, investing in their people, and always putting the customer experience first.

“This is a fantastic statement of intent, particularly as Triangle Kia continues to grow with Kia and develop its capability as a Kia PBV Centre. Congratulations to David and everyone at Triangle Kia; we’re proud of our relationship, and we wish them continued success as we move forward together.”

The investment is also set to continue, with further funding earmarked for the refurbishment of the Duke Street site. Work is due to begin soon.

David Dench, Managing Director of Triangle Kia, said:

“Triangle Kia has been part of Chesterfield for nearly 20 years, and I’m proud that we’ve continued to invest year after year to keep pace with Kia’s expanding and increasingly exciting model range,” says David Dench, Managing Director, Triangle Kia.

“Just as importantly, it’s an investment in our people and our community. We’re committed to being a strong local employer, developing skills, creating opportunities, and running a sustainable business that Chesterfield and the surrounding area can continue to rely on for years to come.”

The latest investment builds on Triangle Kia’s long-standing presence in Chesterfield, supporting new employment opportunities and the continued development of its services in town.

To discover more about investing in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing

A growing borough: Chesterfield sets out its next investment chapter

Chesterfield is entering a new phase of growth, with public and private sector partners aligned around a shared ambition to deliver new homes, jobs and investment across the borough.

Backed by a £2 billion pipeline and a proven track record, the focus is now on unlocking the next generation of opportunities.

At a roundtable held during UKREiiF, the UK’s biggest regeneration and investment conference, leaders from development, planning, construction, and local and regional government discussed the borough’s future growth.

A strategic growth corridor

At the heart of plans is the Chesterfield–Staveley growth corridor, a major regeneration opportunity within the Canal Corridor part of the East Midlands Combined Authority’s vision for growth.

The corridor has the potential to deliver 3,900 new homes, 7,800 jobs and £473 million in annual GVA, creating a significant economic opportunity for the region.

Rhian Davitt-Jones, Director at CBRE, said:

“There’s a real opportunity to set out a clear vision for growth, linking infrastructure, housing and employment and articulating that clearly to the market.”

Town centre living as a catalyst

A stronger residential offer in the town centre is seen as a key part of that growth.

Rhian added: “Establishing a strong town centre living market is a real opportunity, bringing residential alongside improved amenity will help drive growth.”

Paul Holden, Director at Peak Architects, agreed: “Chesterfield town centre has the opportunity to create a proper community, somewhere people can live, not just pass through.”

Andy Dabbs, Managing Executive Director at Whittam Cox Architects, added:

“A big challenge is retaining people; we need to be creating the conditions that encourage them to stay or bring them back after they leave.”

A diverse investment pipeline

Alongside housing, the borough is bringing forward a broad mix of employment and commercial development.

The East Midlands Investment Zone, which includes the Chesterfield–Staveley site, is expected to attract at least £383 million of private investment to the region.

Major schemes, including Waterside, the station masterplan and continued development at Markham Vale, provide a strong and varied pipeline of opportunity.

Liam Hawkins, Operations Director at Maylim, who recently opened an office in Chesterfield, said investment is already influencing how businesses view the town:

“The standard of design and the projects being delivered are of scale and design-led quality, which was attractive to us.”

Clarity and confidence for investors

For investors, clarity of ambition and ease of doing business are critical.

Tom Wheldon, Executive Director at HBD, said: “What’s the ambition? What do you want to be known for? And how do you sell that clearly because capital flows to the places with the least friction.”

Alex Hyams, Head of Mixed-Use Asset Management at Milligan, added: “In Chesterfield, the fundamentals are strong, and there is still significant potential to unlock.”

A competitive and connected location

Chesterfield’s location, close to major cities and on the edge of the Peak District, continues to strengthen its appeal.

Shaun Lunn, Director at AtkinsRéalis, said: “It’s a really attractive place, the opportunity is how we sell that even better.”

Ken Harrison, Director of Spatial Development at East Midlands Combined County Authority, commented: “It’s about connecting places, communities and opportunities and creating plans that can adapt over time.”

Delivering sustainable growth

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We want to grow our population, create jobs and make sure communities benefit from that growth.”

With clear priorities, strong partnerships and a growing pipeline, Chesterfield is well-positioned to attract further investment.

As Andrew Byrne, Group Development Director at Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“There is a huge opportunity here, and it comes from continuing to work together.”

Developers and investors are encouraged to explore current opportunities at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

 

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

Businesses expand at Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Seven businesses, including Chesterfield Champion Nuzest, have expanded at Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, creating new opportunities for local people and reinforcing the towns reputation as a place where businesses can grow.

Three years after opening, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre continues to support growing businesses while attracting new enterprises to Chesterfield. The expanding businesses span a range of sectors, with increased sales and growing teams driving demand for larger office space.

Grant Deeley, Managing Director of Intuitive Infrastructure Solutions, said:

“Intuitive is an IT and Services company; we initially started out with a small virtual office at the Enterprise Centre and over the last couple of years we have grown to the extent that we now have additional office locations in the US, EU and London.

“As the business has expanded, so too has our footprint in Chesterfield. We’ve moved into a larger space within the Enterprise Centre, with an eye on moving to an even larger one in the coming twelve months as we look to build out our Managed Services Capability. This growth has also led to a significant increase in headcount from the local community, whilst strengthening the team and supporting our long-term growth strategy.”

Intuitive Infrastructure Solutions is one of seven businesses to expand within the centre.

Nuzest, an Australian plant-based nutritional supplements company, was one of the first tenants to move into the Enterprise Centre in 2023 and has recently relocated to a larger office.

Creative marketing business Apogee also started in one of the centre’s smaller offices before moving into one of its largest spaces following recent growth.

Best Solicitors, which moved into the Enterprise Centre last year, has quickly expanded into a second office to meet increased demand for appointments and meetings.

Chief Executive Officer, Donna Tilbrook, said:

“Growth like this doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of our Chesterfield team investing time in building relationships, getting involved in the local community and earning the trust of the people and businesses we work with every day.

“Expanding our office is an exciting milestone, but for us it’s more than just taking on extra space. It’s a sign that we’re becoming an established part of Chesterfield, and we’re proud to be growing alongside so many ambitious and successful businesses at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.”

Software platform provider Integrated Interest has moved into a medium-sized office and recruited a new apprentice.

National Grid also occupies multiple spaces within the centre to support local projects.

Fox and Edwards, an events and heritage business, moved into the Enterprise Centre in 2024 and has since expanded into additional office space to support its continued growth.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said:

“It is fantastic to see businesses expanding in our enterprise centre – creating new roles for local people and driving growth in our borough. Our enterprise centres offer businesses fantastic facilities, dedicated support and flexibility.

“We want to ensure that Chesterfield remains a thriving borough and through our enterprise centres we can provide businesses the support they need to grow. Our first enterprise centre opened in 1997, and we’ve seen lots of brilliant businesses grow out of our centres and establish themselves in our borough.”

The additional office space became available after the East Midlands Combined County Authority relocated to larger premises in Chesterfield in April. The move enabled growing businesses to expand while retaining jobs within the borough, helping bring more people into the town centre during the working week. It also saw the authority occupy a previously vacant building, bringing it back into productive use.

Chesterfield Borough Council operates three enterprise and innovation centres, providing serviced office suites, virtual offices, individual desks and meeting rooms for businesses of all sizes.

Businesses benefit from high-speed connectivity, a professional reception service and access to wider business support provided by the council.

All office space across Enterprise Chesterfield is available on flexible, easy in-and-out letting terms, giving businesses the flexibility to grow.

To find out more about expanding or relocating your business in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield’s first padel club to open following £350k investment

Chesterfield is set to welcome its first dedicated padel club this summer, bringing one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports to our town for the first time.

Atmos Padel will officially open on Saturday 29th August 2026, following a £350,000 investment to redevelop the former Queen’s Park Tennis Club, which has been unused for the past six years.

The new venue on Park Road features four outdoor doubles courts and aims to meet growing local demand for the sport, allowing residents to play closer to home rather than travelling to neighbouring towns and cities.

To celebrate the opening, all court bookings will be free throughout the opening weekend. Courts will also be available at half price during the club’s first week.

Padel has seen rapid growth across the UK in recent years, with more than one million people now playing the sport, compared to around 15,000 before the pandemic.

Adam Holman, Head of Padel Operations at Atmos Padel, said:

“Padel’s popularity has exploded, yet Chesterfield has long been one of the biggest towns in the UK without a club. Atmos Padel’s goal is to ease that growing insatiable demand with a club finally in the heart of Chesterfield, whilst also becoming the town’s premier padel community.”

Atmos Padel recently rebranded from Padel Project and now operates five clubs across the UK, with plans to continue expanding nationwide.

Adam added:

“A big reason padel’s popularity has soared is the social scene it creates, and that’s integral to all of our clubs.

“Atmos Padel is more than just courts; like our other clubs, it will be a community, with a full programme of americano mix-ins, junior sessions and tournaments alongside other fun events – like over-50s socials and women’s coffee-and-padel mornings – as part of an inclusive programme designed to give everyone a route into the sport.”

Players will be able to hire courts for private games with friends or join public sessions to meet other players through the Atmos Padel website and app.

Ben Lacey, CEO of Atmos Padel, said:

“One of padel’s many joys is that it can be enjoyed by everyone – regardless of ability or age. Our clubs have thousands of people in their communities, and we can’t wait to grow a fantastic, warm community in Chesterfield.”

The Park Road venue will be open from 8:00am to 10:00pm Monday to Friday, until 8:00pm on Saturdays and from 9:00am to 7:00pm on Sundays.

To discover more activities and experiences across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

For more information or to book a court, visit www.atmospadel.com

Posted in Business, Development, Leisure, Summer, Visiting