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Chesterfield businesses back ambitious plans for town centre transformation

8th January 2026

Backed by a £2 billion investment pipeline, Chesterfield is redefining its future with bold town centre transformation plans to reshape the town’s economy, communities, and identity. Local leaders say optimism is high as Chesterfield looks to 2026 and beyond.

Town centre transformation

Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambition goes beyond economic growth. Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, outlined plans for the town centre. She said:

“We’re creating a cultural quarter, more town centre living, and imaginative uses for spaces like the Pavements Shopping Centre. Chesterfield will be a place where people continue to want to spend time and feel proud to call home.”

Major reinvestment is already underway as landmark retail sites find new purpose including:

Former Wilko store: Purchased by J.B.S.L. Holdings, with plans for a 70-unit aparthotel, two retail units, a coffee shop, gym, and business centre
Historic Eyres furniture store: Set to become a mixed-use development featuring 20 apartments and 10 commercial units, creating a vibrant hub for residents and businesses
Former Marks & Spencer building: Acquired by ALB Group, introducing new retail units and upper-floor residential space (subject to planning approval).

Tom Wragg, Associate Director at FHP Property Consultants, which advises on retail and leisure property across Derbyshire, sees this as a sign of progress.

He said: “The retail market is evolving. Investors like ALB are bringing creativity to repurpose spaces; that’s a huge opportunity for Chesterfield. The former Marks and Spencer site is a prime example of where we can introduce new uses that keep people in town longer.”

Skills and innovation driving growth

As Chesterfield’s town centre evolves, the demand for skilled workers and innovative approaches grows. The Construction Skills Hub in Staveley and the new Advanced and Life Sciences Centre at Chesterfield College are equipping young people with expertise in construction techniques, skills that will help bring town centre projects to life. Ruth Whiteman, owner of Peak Project Solutions, explained:

“We’re focusing on modern construction methods and innovation. It’s about preparing young people for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

Business confidence is growing alongside these regeneration and skills initiatives. As new developments reshape the town centre and local training hubs prepare a skilled workforce, firms see Chesterfield as a place to invest and grow.

Peter Lawrence, Senior Business Advisor at East Midlands Chamber, which supports hundreds of local firms, believes the narrative is shifting. He said:

“Chesterfield isn’t just a gateway anymore, it’s a place to relocate, grow and stay.”

A thriving future

The coming year will see continued investment across Chesterfield, with projects creating new jobs, improving public spaces, and supporting local businesses. These developments are expected to enhance the town’s infrastructure and provide additional opportunities for residents and visitors.

Discover more about developments taking place at chesterfield.co.uk/developments.

Image by @steelcitydronepilot

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

Businesses invited to meet tomorrow’s workforce at milestone skills conference

7th January 2026

Chesterfield businesses hoping to recruit, retain and develop staff are encouraged to meet future talent and discover funded training opportunities at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference, taking place during National Apprenticeship Week 2026.

Now in its 10th year, the conference on Thursday, 12 February, continues its long-term commitment to developing skills and driving economic growth. Employers will meet students studying property and construction, manufacturing and engineering, digital and business studies, showcasing how their skills can benefit local businesses.

Meet local talent

Talented young people from Chesterfield College will play a central role in the event – capturing videography and photography, presenting, catering and facilitating roundtable discussions. Students will also create a special montage reflecting on a decade of the Employability and Skills Conference.

This is a unique opportunity for employers to see talent in action, connect with potential employees, explore apprenticeships, work experience and future recruitment opportunities.

Access funded training and new courses

Employers will learn how to access fully funded training costs for apprentices under 25, plus new short courses including AI, engineering and digital skills – rolling out from April 2026.

Attendees will receive insights from advisors and industry leaders on the latest developments in employability, skills support and funding.

Exclusive tour opportunity

Delegates will also have the chance to tour Chesterfield College’s brand-new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre, set to open in 2026. This state-of-the-art facility will showcase cutting-edge equipment and training spaces designed to support the next generation of engineers and life sciences professionals. The tours will take place at the end of the event, offering a first look at how the centre will help meet future skills needs.

Celebrating a decade of skills development

Diane Beresford, Chair of Chesterfield Skills Partnership Board and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of East Midlands Chamber, said: “For the past decade, this conference has been a catalyst for collaboration between employers, educators and training providers. Together, we’ve built a strong foundation for skills development in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. As we look to the future, our focus is on creating even more opportunities for young people to thrive and for businesses to access the talent they need to grow. By working in partnership, we can ensure our local economy remains vibrant and competitive for years to come.”

Fliss Miller, Director of Skills and Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority, will discuss how the EMCCA Growth Plan is shaping the future of skills and employment. Fliss said:

“EMCCA’s Local Growth Plan sets out bold ambitions to create a thriving, inclusive economy powered by a skilled workforce. By aligning education, training and business needs, we’re building a system that supports innovation and growth across the East Midlands. This conference is a vital part of that journey – helping employers connect with talent and access the resources they need to succeed.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “We want to ensure that everyone can benefit from a growing local economy, as well as work opportunities in the local area. So, working in partnership with local businesses and education providers is essential in helping Chesterfield residents to develop the skills they need to progress in their careers.

Book your place

“I would encourage as many education providers and local businesses as possible to come along to the Employability and Skills Conference to network with others and help us to ensure that school leavers are ‘work ready’ and are as prepared as possible skills-wise to enter the world of work.”

The event is taking place on Thursday 12 February at Chesterfield College, from 8am to 11am.

Join leaders in shaping the future workforce of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. Find out more about the event and book your place at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-north-derbyshire-employability-skills-conference/.

The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership delivers the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

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

Local community invited to celebrate 10 years of Queen’s Park Sports Centre

6th January 2026

Ten years ago, Queen’s Park Sports Centre opened its doors to our residents for the first time and has since grown to be a community hub for many different groups, organisations and individuals to use and enjoy.

This Sunday, Queen’s Park Sports Centre will be hosting an open day and is encouraging local people to come along and join them in celebrating ten years of the sports centre so far.

The open day will include a range of activities for all of the family from fitness classes to swimming lessons and vouchers will be hidden for customers to find, there’s loads to get involved in.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s a genuine pleasure to be part of celebrating this ten-year milestone of Queens Park Sports Centre serving our communities. The vision we had for an inclusive space, providing activities to get people moving and bringing them together has been more than realised.

“I encourage anyone, especially those who may not previously have taken part in exercise to come along to the open day and take advantage of the activities on offer on the 11 January.

“Getting active has so many benefits both physically and mentally and it’s never too late or early!”

Visitors can enjoy a mix of free fitness classes, family-friendly activities, and sports tasters throughout the day. Highlights include:

Fitness classes such as indoor cycling, yoga, Body Pump, and fun sessions like Clubbercise
Racket sports with drop-in badminton and pickleball games, plus a family netball taster
Children’s activities, including pre-school tumblers and gymnastics-style play
Swimming tasters for adults and children, ending with a family splash session with floats and toys

There’s something for all ages and abilities, making it a great day to try new activities and get active together.

All of the individual sessions will be bookable in advance via reception in person, or by calling 01246 345 555. Fitness classes, racket sports and netball are available to book online

It is advised that sessions are booked ahead of your visit to the open day to avoid disappointment. Many of the sessions will be free of charge or low cost to mark the open day.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

£65.5 million boost for bus passengers in the East Midlands

5th January 2026

Bus passengers across the East Midlands are set to benefit from faster, more affordable and more reliable services following a new £65.5 million investment announced by the Government.

Local transport authorities nationwide will receive a share of £3 billion in funding each year until 2028/29, with £65.5 million allocated to the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). This funding will be spread evenly across three years.

The investment will provide local authorities with the flexibility to enhance services in ways that best meet the needs of their communities This could include reducing bus fares, introducing new routes, rolling out zero-emission buses, or upgrading bus stops to make them safer and more accessible.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“This is a huge boost for everyone who relies on buses across our region. People can look forward to services that are faster, cheaper, greener, and far more reliable, making it easier to get to work, school, hospital appointments, or simply visit friends and family.

“For the first time, multi-year funding gives us the certainty to plan for the long term, so local communities will finally see bus services designed around their needs. Whether it’s new routes, modern zero-emission buses, or safer, more accessible stops, this investment will make everyday travel simpler, more convenient, and more affordable.

“Better bus services mean more people can access opportunities, businesses can grow, and communities can thrive. This funding isn’t just about buses, it’s about connecting people, unlocking potential, and giving everyone in the East Midlands the freedom to travel with confidence.”

EMCCA will receive a Local Authority Bus Grant of £21,848,207 in each of 2026/27, 2027/28 and 2028/29. This totals £65,544,621 to be invested across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire over the next three years.

Roads and buses minister Simon Lightwood said:
“For too long, passengers have been let down by unreliable services, sub-standard bus stations and over a decade of routes being cut.

“This £3 billion boost changes this, providing passengers with lower fares, more frequent and reliable services and safer journeys – helping both ease the cost of living and making it easier for people to get to work, hospital appointments and social plans, boosting the economy.”

The funding follows the Bus Services Act becoming law in October, giving councils greater control over how local services are run and offering increased protection for socially necessary routes.

Decision-making will now sit with local leaders rather than Whitehall, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to ensuring services are designed around people’s needs.

The announcement comes during Mayor Claire’s Big Transport Conversation, which is gathering views from residents on how transport in the East Midlands can be made easier to use, cleaner and better connected.

Buses are a key focus of the conversation, with plans to improve reliability, affordability and accessibility, alongside upgrades to routes and stops to better connect communities. The long-term vision also addresses congestion, air quality and greener travel, helping to ensure reliable transport options across the East Midlands by 2040.

The Mayor’s Big Transport Conversation runs until 8 February 2026. To share your views on the future of transport in the region, visit
www.eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk/mayors-transport-plan

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Stay, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions achieve success at local, regional and national awards

2nd January 2026

Chesterfield businesses are continuing to gain recognition at local, regional and national level, with a series of recent award wins and shortlisting’s highlighting the strength, innovation and ambition of the town’s business community.

Logistics firm wins National Business of the Year Award

Local business and Chesterfield Champion Kranlee Logistics has been named National Business of the Year (less than 50 employees) at the SME National Business Awards 2025, held in London last November.

Founded in 2020 by just two people, Kranlee Logistics has grown rapidly into a team of 15, operating from Chesterfield and providing tailored logistics solutions to a wide range of clients across the UK. The company supports businesses both locally and nationally, helping to strengthen supply chains through a customer-focused and innovative approach.

The national award recognises Kranlee Logistics commitment to high-quality customer service, operational innovation, and consistent growth. The win follows a series of regional awards, marking another major milestone in the company’s development.

Karen, Director of Kranlee, says:

“Being named National Business of the Year at the SME National Business Awards is an incredible honour for both myself, Lee and the entire Kranlee team.

This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence that we all put into everything we do. From our team’s tireless efforts to provide innovative logistics solutions, to the support from our clients and partners, this achievement marks a significant milestone in our journey.

It reinforces our ‘Consider it Done’ mission and motivates us to continue setting higher standards in the logistics industry. We’re incredibly proud to share this win with everyone who has supported us, and we’re excited for what’s to come as we continue to grow and deliver exceptional results.”

The Accountancy Recruitment Group recognised in East Midlands Leadership Awards

The Accountancy Recruitment Group has been shortlisted in TheBusinessDesk.com East Midlands Leadership Awards 2026, marking a proud milestone for the business and its team.

The nomination reflects the strength of the East Midlands’ business community and the role The Accountancy Recruitment Group plays in supporting high-growth organisations across the region. Specialising in the recruitment of senior finance professionals, the firm works closely with ambitious businesses to help them secure leadership talent that supports sustainable growth.

The shortlisting also recognises the dedication of the team, whose collaborative approach and deep market knowledge continue to deliver strong outcomes for both clients and candidates. With a growing portfolio of regional partnerships, the business remains focused on building long-term relationships and supporting career progression across the finance sector.

The awards ceremony will take place in Nottingham in March 2026, bringing together some of the region’s most respected leaders and organisations.

Director, John Smith says:

“We love being surrounded by so many impressive businesses of all shapes and sizes and as a business we are proud to be able to support so many impressive groups on our doorstep with their senior finance recruitment.

It’s fab to be able to share in the success of the local business leaders and we look forward to celebrating with them at the Awards Ceremony in Nottingham next March.”

Chesterfield Cyber Security Firm Wins Local Business Award

Local firm Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, has been named Chesterfield’s local winner of the ‘Behind the Badge’ competition. The company helps schools, SMEs, and non-profits stay secure online, and with nearly 20 years of experience, the team focuses on making cyber security affordable and accessible for local organisations.

The award is part of a nationwide initiative from Sage, Official Partner of the EFL, which recognises small businesses that make a difference in their communities.

As part of the award, Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions joins a group of small businesses from across the country receiving recognition, including EFL match tickets, Sage products to support business growth, and promotion through Sage and EFL club channels.

The campaign, launched earlier this year, invited fans of all EFL clubs to nominate local businesses that play a meaningful role in their communities, from cafés and barbers to printers and plumbers.

Kevin Walker, Founder, said:

“We protect and defend the organisations that make our community what it is – schools, care homes, parish councils, and the small businesses our area depends on. Our job is securing them online without the scare tactics or the tech waffle.

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home

Looking ahead to the future of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

1st January 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paul Flitter, Founder and Director, New Oak Estates

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

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

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

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder, CRUSH

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

Laura Jo, Owner, Adorn Jewellers

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

Neil Beaumont, Sales Director, Custom Solar

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

Heather Hearn-Poole, SEO Manager, FWD Motion

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

Anna Meer, Director, DLP Planning

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

Dawn Brown, Owner, Rose Cottage, DogLand

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

Claudia Risorto, Apprentice Solicitor, Banner Jones Solicitors

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

Katie Snodden, Head of Sales, Bridge Help

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

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

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

Aurora train serves Chesterfield as part of landmark East Midlands launch

31st December 2025

A new chapter in rail travel has begun in the East Midlands and South Yorkshire, as the first train from Transport UK and East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) £400 million Aurora fleet carried its inaugural passengers. The service, which stops at Chesterfield, gave local travellers a first glimpse of the step-change in comfort, reliability, and performance that the new Hitachi Rail trains bring to the network.

The maiden Aurora service departed Sheffield at 7am, bound for London, serving Chesterfield along the way and offering passengers their first experience of the upgraded fleet.

The 33 bi-mode trains will make full use of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line upgrade, running on electric overhead lines to cut carbon emissions by 66 per cent – meaning quieter and greener journeys for passengers travelling through Chesterfield and beyond.

The Aurora fleet offers 24 per cent more seats and over 19 per cent more legroom in a typical five-carriage formation compared to the Meridian trains it replaced. Once the full fleet of 33 trains is in service, it will deliver a 46 per cent increase in total seating available on the Midland Main Line, benefitting commuters and travellers.

Transport UK’s EMR business worked closely with Derby-based design firm DG DESIGN to adapt a brand-new seat for the Aurora trains. The result combines comfort and support with practical features such as power and USB points, generous legroom, coat hooks, well-sized seat-back tables, and storage space for cabin bags under each seat.

Passengers on the new Aurora trains also experienced improved connectivity thanks to an enhanced Wi-Fi system using multiple SIM cards, along with specially engineered glass to allow mobile signals to pass through more effectively.

Will Rogers, Managing Director for East Midlands Railway, said on the day the train departed:
“Today is truly a landmark moment for rail travel across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. At 7am, the very first train in Transport UK and EMR’s brand-new £400 million Aurora fleet departed Sheffield for London St Pancras – marking the start of a new era for Intercity travel on our network. With more seats, legroom and luggage space, as well as enhanced Wi-Fi, passenger information and the ability to run on electric, these new trains will transform the service we can provide.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire strengthen international tourism in Asia

30th December 2025

Visit Peak District and Derbyshire has highlighted the region’s world-class tourism offerings to leading travel buyers from China, Japan, and South Korea at an international travel trade mission in Chengdu, China.”

The mission, part of VisitBritain’s Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia (DBCNEA) programme, provided a significant opportunity to raise the international profile of the Peak District and Derbyshire. It supports Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s wider objectives to attract high-spending global visitors, extend the tourism season beyond peak months, and deliver long-term benefits to the local visitor economy.

During the event, the team held over 50 one-to-one meetings with tour operators and travel buyers from China, Japan, and South Korea, highlighting the region’s tourism offerings to inspire future itineraries and drive new business.

Additionally, Visit Peak District and Derbyshire delivered educational seminars showcasing local attractions, accommodations, and activity providers. These closely align with emerging Asian travel trends, including high-end, small-group, and immersive experiences.

Derbyshire is attracting growing interest from Chinese visitors, drawn by the area’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Chatsworth, internationally recognised for its role in the 2005 Pride & Prejudice film, remains a major attraction, while the wider Peak District offers ‘soft adventure’ experiences such as hiking and stargazing, appealing to a new generation of nature-inspired travellers.

Both ‘Peak District’ and ‘Chatsworth’ currently feature among the most popular trending searches on RedNote, one of China’s largest social platforms with over 300 million users, highlighting Derbyshire’s strong potential as a must-see UK destination.

Spending by visitors from China, Japan, and South Korea is forecast to reach £1.4 billion for the UK economy this year, with an average visitor spend from these markets of £1,528 per visit – more than double the all-market average of £818.

Attendance at DBCNEA strengthened Visit Peak District and Derbyshire’s ongoing engagement with the Chinese market, which includes a dedicated cultural tourism friendship between Derbyshire and Anhui Province, facilitated by Make It China. This established collaboration provided valuable momentum for trade discussions during the event.

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

“VisitBritain’s Destination Britain China and Northeast Asia mission offered us an invaluable platform to present Derbyshire’s unique blend of heritage, nature and immersive experiences to top buyers from China, Japan and South Korea.

By bringing our region directly into the spotlight at a global event, we build the relationships and confidence needed for tour operators to book the Peak District as an essential stop on future itineraries – making a powerful case for the region as a “must-see” destination beyond the typical London circuit.

Growing awareness among these influential buyers is key to unlocking the full potential of inbound tourism for our communities and economy.”

As part of its international tourism strategy, Visit Peak District and Derbyshire has been working extensively to ensure local tourism businesses are ‘travel trade ready’. Over the past year, the organisation has supported more than 40 businesses to become trade-ready through targeted development workshops and the launch of a new Travel Trade Brochure.

Businesses can find out more about Visit Peak District and Derbyshire’s business support activity at: www.visitpeakdistrict.com/industry

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Two Chesterfield schools named in County’s top performers

29th December 2025

Two Chesterfield secondary schools have been recognised among the top performers in Derbyshire, following the release of the D epartment for Education’s revised 2024/25 Key Stage 4 performance data.

As the year draws to a close, new figures reveal how Derbyshire’s state-funded secondary schools performed throughout 2025, with Attainment 8 scores used as the key measure. This metric reflects pupils’ average achievement across eight qualifications, including double-weighted English and maths GCSEs, a selection of English Baccalaureate subjects such as sciences, languages, history or geography, and three additional approved qualifications.

St Mary’s Catholic High School in Upper Newbold has been named the top-performing secondary school in Derbyshire, achieving an impressive Attainment 8 score of 59.3 in the 2024/25 school year. The school, located on Newbold Road, had 206 Key Stage 4 students on roll and continues to build on its strong academic reputation.

Ofsted also visited St Mary’s in June 2024, where it received ‘Outstanding’ ratings across every area inspected, reinforcing its position as a leading school both locally and regionally.

Also representing Chesterfield in the county-wide rankings is Brookfield Community School, located on Chatsworth Road. The school secured sixth place in Derbyshire with an Attainment 8 score of 50.7, reflecting strong academic outcomes for its 176 Key Stage 4 pupils.

Brookfield was rated ‘Good’ across all categories in its April 2023 Ofsted inspection, maintaining its positive performance and reputation within the local community.

With two schools inside the top 10, Chesterfield continues to demonstrate strong educational standards, offering families high-quality options supported by excellent teaching, a focus on pupil progress and well-rounded learning environments.

Chesterfield is a great place to bring up a family, it offers many schools that Ofsted rated as outstanding and good.

The town is also ranked as the second best place in the UK to raise a family and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands.

Discover more about living in Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Stay

Expanded CCTV coverage into Chatsworth Road

28th December 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Local play area welcomes families following major transformation

27th December 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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