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New Local Plan to be prepared for Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council has launched a consultation to support the development of a new Local Plan for the borough with residents and local businesses being invited to have their say.

The Local Plan is a crucial part of the planning process and sets out how many homes and commercial properties will be built, and where. This aims to ensure that new development is sustainable and supports local economic growth without negatively impacting upon people’s health and wellbeing or the environment.

The consultation is open from 15 June until 12 July so that residents and businesses can share their key priorities and influence what will be incorporated into the draft Local Plan.

A Call for Sites is also running alongside this consultation to allow people to suggest sites for development and other uses.
The new Local Plan will set out where development should happen over the next fifteen years and identify how infrastructure, including school places, GP surgeries, leisure facilities, roads, and green spaces, can be provided to meet the needs of both existing and new residents.

Chesterfield Borough Council started preparing a new Local Plan last year, but the process has restarted due to the introduction of a new system for preparing Local Plans in March of this year. Any sites submitted as part of last year’s Call for Sites will still be considered, so there is no need to resubmit them.

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and environment, said: “This is the first step in creating a new Local Plan that reflects the needs and ambitions of our residents. We want to hear from people to ensure that we can prepare a plan which ensures that development takes place in the right place, that we provide the infrastructure needed to support our communities and we can protect the environment.

“The Local Plan will help guide planning decisions for the next 20 years and sets out policies that developers must follow. This is an important document, and we want to ensure that the views of local people help shape this plan.”

A timetable outlining the key stages of the new plan, along with the notice confirming the start of the process, can be viewed online at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-policy-and-the-local-plan.

As well as setting out where development should happen, the Local Plan will also include policies which will help guide the planning process. And it plays a key role in tackling the climate emergency by guiding the transition to a low-carbon society, mitigating climate change and improving biodiversity across the borough.

Councillor Martin Stone said: “We are aiming to become a carbon-neutral borough by 2050, and the Local Plan will play a key part in ensuring that we can meet this target. Your feedback can help ensure we include policies and identify ways to support nature, improve biodiversity and encourage housing to be more efficient and produce less emissions. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to play your part in helping tackle climate change here in Chesterfield.”

The Local Plan consultation and Call for Sites are open until 12 July. You can take part by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-policy-and-the-local-plan/new-local-plan-2025-to-2044

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

Chesterfield Champions unite to deliver vital support for local communities

Chesterfield Champions are continuing to make meaningful differences, supporting local hospice care, championing mental health and wellbeing, and raising funds for community causes through a range of initiatives.

Banner Jones renews Sparkle Night Walk support

Banner Jones sponsor Sparkle Night Walk

Banner Jones Solicitors has reaffirmed its commitment to the local community by returning as official medal sponsor for Sparkle Night Walk and taking part in the event for a sixth year.

The Sparkle Night Walk returns on Saturday, 27th June 2026, marking the 11th anniversary of the popular fundraising event, which sees thousands of people walk through Chesterfield in glitter and pink to raise funds for end of life care across North Derbyshire.

Banner Jones staff will once again join the walk, continuing a long-standing involvement that has seen the firm raise more than £4,000 for Ashgate Hospice through previous participation.

Alongside taking part, the firm is continuing its sponsorship of the event medals for a second consecutive year, helping to support the delivery of the event while raising awareness of the hospice’s vital services.

Ashgate Hospice provides free, compassionate care for adults in North Derbyshire living with life-limiting or incurable illnesses, including cancer and neurological conditions. Its specialist teams offer palliative and end of life care, as well as practical and emotional support for patients and their families.

Lynne Pope, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones, said:

“We are proud to continue supporting Ashgate Hospice by sponsoring the Sparkle Night Walk medals for a second year. It’s a cause that means a great deal to many of us, and it’s inspiring to see the community come together year after year to support the incredible work carried out by Ashgate Hospice.

James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, added:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Banner Jones for returning as our medal sponsor for the 2026 Sparkle Night Walk, as well as taking part in the event once again. Their continued generosity and support will help fund care for the people who need us now and in the future.”

OxyClinic highlights community support for men’s mental health

OxyClinic

OxyClinic is highlighting the importance of community connection and mental wellbeing through its support for Chesterfield-based charity Andy’s Man Club, which provides free peer-to-peer support groups for men across the UK.

The organisation’s Operations Manager, Gary West, also volunteers as a facilitator for Andy’s Man Club in Chesterfield, helping to create a safe and supportive space where men can talk openly about mental health and life’s challenges.

With Men’s Mental Health Week taking place throughout the week (Monday, 15th June to Friday, 21st June) OxyClinic is using the moment to shine a light on the importance of volunteering and community support in improving mental wellbeing and reducing isolation.

Andy’s Man Club provides non-judgmental spaces where men are encouraged to talk openly, helping to break down stigma and remind people they are not alone. OxyClinic says volunteering and supporting organisations like this can have a positive impact not only on those receiving support, but also on those giving their time, with benefits including improved confidence, purpose and social connection.

Beth Adamson, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at OxyClinic, said:

“True wellbeing comes from taking a holistic approach, and human connection remains one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, attending a support group, or volunteering time to help others, small actions can have a lasting impact.”

Local hospice and Chesterfield law firm launch Wills Month campaign

BRM team

BRM has partnered with Blythe House Hospice to offer professional Will-writing services throughout July in return for a voluntary donation to the charity.

Funds raised will support Blythe House Hospice’s care for people affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses across the High Peak, Hope Valley, Derbyshire Dales, Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire.

As part of the campaign, BRM’s Will-writing experts will be available to individuals and couples looking to put a Will in place. The suggested minimum donation is £75 for a single Will and £150 for a mirror Will.

The initiative continues a long-standing partnership between the two organisations. In 2025, the campaign raised £7,400, contributing to a total of more than £76,000 raised since 2017.

Blythe House Hospice provides a wide range of services to support patients and their families, including Hospice at Home care, an overnight roaming service, therapies, counselling, and specialist nursing.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said:

“We’re delighted to support Blythe House Hospice through our annual Wills Month once again this year, continuing a partnership that has been running since 2017.

“As a local business, we know many families in our communities who have benefitted from the hospice’s vital services. Their support allows patients to remain at home where possible, while receiving high-quality care.”

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, added:

“We’re proud to have helped raise more than £76,000 for Blythe House Hospice so far. It shows what can be achieved when our community comes together.

“This campaign provides a valuable opportunity for people to ensure their affairs are in order while also supporting an important local charity.”

Banner Jones Solicitors, OxyClinic and BRM are a few of over 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, Business, Development, Home

Construction Skills Hub expansion creates new training opportunities in Chesterfield

The Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor has expanded with new classrooms and funding, creating 45 additional training places to support skills development in Chesterfield’s growing construction sector.

Expanding skills provision for local people

The Construction Skills Hub, based in Mastin Moor, has strengthened its offer with the addition of two new classroom spaces, enabling a further 45 learners to access industry-focused training.

Primarily funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the expansion has been made possible thanks to additional investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), supporting Chesterfield’s ambition to build a highly skilled workforce for the future.

Over the next decade, the Hub is expected to support more than 5,000 learners, from school pupils exploring career options to adults looking to retrain or upskill. The facility provides hands-on training alongside careers insight and work experience opportunities, ensuring learners are prepared for real-world employment.

Supporting a growing sector

Since launching, the Hub has already supported more than 150 students across a range of trades including groundworks, bricklaying, electrical, plumbing and site joinery. In addition, degree-level apprenticeships are available in construction management, quantity surveying and civil engineering.

The hub’s employer-led approach continues to deliver strong results, with 69% of learners progressing into construction roles – significantly higher than the national average of 23% for construction-based college learners.

New classroom space will allow the introduction of adult skills courses and targeted bootcamps, helping to address skills shortages and provide pathways into employment. An additional student support cabin has also been installed to accommodate increased staffing and learner demand.

Close up of hands and tools at Construction Skills Hub

Partnership driving impact

The initiative is delivered through a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College and the University of Derby, located at the heart of the Devonshire Group’s development site in Mastin Moor.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said:
“The Construction Skills Hub is a fantastic example of how the public, education and private sectors can work together to create training opportunities for local people that will allow them to benefit from a growing local economy. This additional funding will help expand the number of students at the hub and ensure more local people can benefit from this innovative approach to training so that they gain the right skills so they can grasp the opportunities available in a growing construction sector.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, added:
“Investing in skills is essential to driving growth across the East Midlands and the Construction Skills Hub shows how high-quality training can help people move into good local jobs.

“Funding support means the Hub can expand, giving more residents the chance to gain the practical, in-demand skills employers need.

“By backing initiatives like this, we’re helping people progress while building the workforce needed to deliver new homes, infrastructure and regeneration across our region”

The latest £108,000 investment from the East Midlands Combined County Authority, secured through the UKSPF, reinforces the Hub’s role in supporting regional growth, helping to deliver the workforce needed for new homes, infrastructure and regeneration projects.

Find out more about skills, training and business support in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/ 

Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby and Devonshire Group are all part of over 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 becoming a Chesterfield Champion and supporting local growth.

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

Staveley town centre regeneration is complete

A multi-million-pound project to transform Staveley town centre is ready to welcome visitors to the town.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, has included improvements across the market place along with a striking new landmark pavilion building – together the improvements will make Staveley a more attractive destination and bring more visitors into the town centre.

The enhanced square includes new feature paving which provides a better surface, new lighting to help ensure the town centre looks its best at all hours of the day and night, new seating and planting to make it a more inviting environment, new CCTV to help ensure the town remains a safe place to visit, and a new flagship play area which was designed in consultation with students from Staveley Junior School and ensures the town centre is a place for all ages to enjoy.

Improvements also include a new sculpture which was created by artist Coralie Turpin and draws inspiration from the Cuckoo Boats which were unique to the Chesterfield Canal. It depicts nature scenes from the canal and features works created by students at Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School.

Students from both schools have visited the site to see the transformation and their contribution to the project.

The pavilion building is a new landmark for the town centre, with striking features but traditional brickwork so it is in-keeping with the wider environment. It will house Staveley Library on the ground floor and a business on the first floor – this will help attract more visitors and encourage people to support businesses based in the square. The library is expected to open later this year, and the council is in discussions with several businesses with the aim of letting the space as soon as possible.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This project has transformed the space and will encourage more visitors who will support local businesses and ensure that the town centre can thrive. We’ve created a flexible space that will help encourage visitors on a day-to-day basis but also provides space for the town centre to host events and activities for the community to enjoy.

“This is a town centre that the community can be proud of, and I hope lots of people will visit to see the transformation for themselves.”

The Staveley 21 project received just over £6 million of funding from the Staveley Town Deal, a £25.2 million programme that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “I’m delighted that we could welcome the children who have helped create these improvements as the first visitors to this space – we wanted to ensure that young people could feel ownership of the town centre and be proud of where they live. The new sculpture is a fantastic piece that celebrates the canal but has community at its heart and the children’s works are a great addition that help make it stand out.”

The new sculpture created by Coralie Turpin was officially unveiled as part of the opening, it was funded through the Animate Chesterfield programme which aims to create artworks throughout regeneration projects in Staveley and Chesterfield.

The striking sculpture is a new landmark in the town centre and features lighting along with a cuckoo boat shape in the paving as a nod to the importance of the canal in the town’s history but also the role it provides today as a beloved local green space.

Coralie Turpin said: “I am inspired by the brave ancestors of Staveley’s communities who fearlessly navigated from the canal out to sea in barges with sails called cuckoo boats.

“I wanted the communities I worked with to understand how amazingly ambitious and intelligent these ancestors were. How important the canal was to life in Staveley and also to learn about the wildlife there.”

The project has also included improvements to the connections to the canal along with a shop front grant scheme which has seen almost half a million pounds provided to local businesses to enhance their properties and improve the look of the town.

It is one of the key Town Deal projects and its completion represents an important milestone in the overall programme.

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The completion of the town centre works marks a major moment for the Town Deal. Together our projects aim to help the community at all stages of their life and ensure that the town is a fantastic place to live and work. I’m delighted to see these works completed as this town centre continues to be a place where the community can spend time together and support local businesses.”

Work started on site in November 2024 and the town centre works were delivered by Stepnell.

Tom Sewell, director at Stepnell, said: “From the pavilion, seating and planting to the play area designed with local schoolchildren, we’ve worked closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and partners to ensure every element of the Staveley 21 scheme has been shaped and delivered to an outstanding quality.

“Having operated in this live town centre site and engaged throughout with the local community, it is incredibly rewarding to have helped bring the revitalised town centre to life. We look forward to seeing the impact this scheme will have on driving footfall into the town centre for decades to come.”

A small amount of snagging works remain around the tiered seating area, these are expected to be completed in the next few weeks and will provide a space for the community to host performances and other activities.

During the works, the statue of three industrial workers which sat in the centre of the town centre, was stolen. Chesterfield Borough Council is currently appointing an artist to work with the community to create something new that celebrates the town’s industrial past. The new statue will be fully funded by Stepnell.

The Staveley Town Deal is a £25.2 million programme funded by Government that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow. It includes new training facilities, enhanced community buildings, a canal extension, and much more.

You can find out more about the Staveley Town Deal by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Visiting

Vote for Chesterfield’s best night‑out venue in 2026 awards

Chesterfield is celebrating its vibrant nightlife as the 2026 Best Bar None Awards recognise the town’s best pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants.

Vote for your favourite venue and help celebrate the businesses that go the extra mile to create safer, more welcoming and enjoyable nights out.

The awards take place on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, and will bring together venues from across the borough to celebrate excellence in customer safety, venue management and partnership working.

Ahead of the ceremony, vote in the People’s Choice Award and support the venue you think delivers Chesterfield’s best night out.

Voting closes on Friday, 3rd July 2026.

Supporting safer socialising

Supported nationally by the Home Office and the drinks industry, the Best Bar None scheme launched in Chesterfield in 2023. Chesterfield Borough Council delivers the scheme locally in partnership with Chesterfield Pubwatch, Derbyshire Constabulary and Best Bar None.

The initiative promotes collaboration between licensed venues, police and the local authority, helping to raise standards and share best practice.

Recognising excellence across the sector

There will also be five more special awards up for grabs on the evening, chosen as part of the accreditation assessment process.

Together, these awards highlight the quality and diversity of Chesterfield’s hospitality sector and reinforce the town’s reputation as a welcoming, safe place to enjoy a night out.

Ahead of the awards, Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield and those that are signed up to the Best Bar None scheme are all playing a part to ensure everyone can feel safe when socialising in the borough.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating our accredited venues at the Best Bar None awards on 8th July, and we want to hear from you too, so make sure you vote for your favourite venue to win the People’s Choice Award 2026.”

Get involved

Support your favourite venue and celebrate the people and businesses that help make Chesterfield’s nightlife welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

Vote for your favourite venue by visiting: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/dtyqxz

This summer, Chesterfield comes alive with flavour, colour and culture. Taste global cuisines at town centre festivals or explore our independent restaurants, pubs and bars: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

University of Derby named UK’s top university in 2027 student rankings

The University of Derby has been named UK University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, based on reviews from more than 24,000 students across the country.

The university climbed six places to secure the top position in the 2027 league table, which evaluated 323 institutions across the UK. It also ranked first for employability, second for accommodation and second for course quality.

Building on this success, it is expanding its presence in Chesterfield, with new courses at its St Helena Campus in business, sport and nursing, including foundation year routes, to support local skills and future workforce needs.

The results highlight the institution’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong career outcomes for students.

A total of 97% of students who submitted reviews said they would recommend the university to a friend, reflecting consistently high levels of student satisfaction.

The Uni Compare rankings are based on independent data and feedback from current and former students, assessing key aspects of university life including accommodation, course quality, employability and social experience. The rankings aim to give prospective students a clear and honest comparison of institutions ahead of starting university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“To be named the UK’s best university by students is an exceptional achievement and one we are immensely proud of because it comes directly from those who know us best.

“This recognition demonstrates the value students place on their experience at Derby and the increased social capital they gain. That is one of the strongest endorsements any university can receive.”

The university delivers teaching excellence through an industry-focused approach, with courses ranging from foundation level to postgraduate study and research.

It has further strengthened its links with business and industry through the launch of its Chancellor’s Entrepreneurs’ Club, delivered in collaboration with entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and the university’s Chancellor William Cavendish, Chair of the Devonshire Group. The initiative gives students direct access to influential business leaders and mentors.

Students also benefit from links with leading global organisations, including Google, Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and the NHS.

To find out more about learning and higher education opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-training-opportunities/

The University of Derby and Devonshire Group are two of over 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 Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

Chesterfield housebuilder drives growth with three new Derbyshire developments

Chesterfield-based Stancliffe Homes is continuing its regional growth with three new residential developments in Wingerworth, Bolsover and Darley Dale.

The company based at Markham Vale Environment Centre, which recently secured a prestigious five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation for the second consecutive year, is continuing to invest in high-quality, energy-efficient homes while supporting the growth of communities across our region.

New homes launched in Wingerworth

Stancliffe Homes has officially opened the show home at its Kingswood Park development in Wingerworth. The exclusive scheme comprises 17 stone-built bungalows designed specifically for the over-55s market.

Each home has been built with sustainability in mind, featuring air-source heat pumps, solar PV panels and electric vehicle charging points as standard. The development has already proven highly popular, with all homes reserved before the show home opened.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Stancliffe Homes, said:

“It’s fantastic to have all our homes on-site reserved before the show home even opened. Bungalows have long been a popular choice for those looking to future-proof their living arrangements. There is evidently a very strong demand for modern, light and highly energy-efficient single-storey homes.”

Major investment in Bolsover

Stancliffe Homes is also playing a key role in the delivery of the Bolsover North masterplan, one of the area’s most significant housing and infrastructure projects.

Working alongside Strata and Persimmon Homes, the developer will deliver 105 of the 547 homes planned as part of the wider scheme.

The project includes 17 acres of public green space, a new town park and land earmarked for a future primary school and care facility, helping to create a sustainable community for future generations.

Sam Jones, Director of Stancliffe Homes, said:

“We feel a strong connection to Bolsover and its future. The district is brimming with potential, and being involved in a project of this scale allows us to contribute to the town’s wider infrastructure while staying true to our design-led approach. This is a pivotal period of growth for us, and we remain focused on delivering homes that both we and the local community can be proud of.”

New development underway in the Derbyshire Dales

Meanwhile, construction has begun on Stancliffe Homes’ latest development, Stonebridge Walk in Darley Dale.

The scheme will feature homes built entirely from natural stone and offer a range of two to five-bedroom properties. Designed to reflect the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, the development will combine traditional materials with modern specifications and energy-efficient features.

Supporting sustainable growth

Across all three developments, Stancliffe Homes is continuing its commitment to sustainable housebuilding by incorporating renewable technologies and modern construction methods into its homes.

By delivering highly energy-efficient properties, many of which achieve A-rated EPCs, the Chesterfield-based developer is helping to meet demand for lower-carbon housing while contributing to the growth of communities across Derbyshire.

The latest developments represent another milestone in Stancliffe Homes’ growth story, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality homes while supporting investment and regeneration across the region.

Find more places to live in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in Development, Home, Stay

How volunteers are shaping Chesterfield’s communities

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield Champions celebrate national tourism success at VisitEngland Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions have been recognised among England’s leading tourism businesses after achieving national success at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.

Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout were among four tourism businesses and individuals from the Peak District and Derbyshire to receive national awards at the prestigious ceremony, held at Aerospace Bristol on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026.

Winners from Peak Edge Hotel, Silver winner of the Small Hotel of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Andrew Stokes OBE, England Director, at Aerospace Bristol.

Peak Edge Hotel-VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, which have celebrated the very best of England’s tourism industry for more than 35 years, recognise excellence across accommodation, attractions, accessibility, food and drink, visitor experiences and customer service.

Representing the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby on the national stage, local finalists achieved the following results:

  • Small Hotel of the Year – Silver – Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Pub of the Year – Silver – The Tickled Trout, Barlow
  • Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award – Gold – Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • Unsung Hero Award – Silver – Viv Smith, National Stone Centre

All four national finalists secured their place in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence after winning Gold at the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards earlier this year.

The success of Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout highlights the quality of hospitality experiences available in and around Chesterfield, helping to strengthen our town’s reputation as a welcoming destination for visitors and showcasing the strength of the local visitor economy.

Winners from The Tickled Trout, Barlow, Silver winner of the Pub of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Nigel Wilkinson MBE, VisitEngland Advisory Board Member, at Aerospace Bristol.

The Tickled Trout – VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

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

“To achieve four national awards, including a Gold and three Silvers, is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the outstanding quality, innovation and customer service across the Peak District and Derbyshire.

These results demonstrate the strength and diversity of our visitor economy.”

Steve Perez, owner of Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“We are enormously proud of what the team has achieved. Hospitality is ultimately about people, and this award reflects the dedication, warmth and professionalism our team shows every day. As an independent Derbyshire business, it is particularly special to be representing the Peak District on a national stage and demonstrating the quality of hospitality experiences available here.”

Mark Thurman, Managing Director of Peak Edge Hotel, added:

“This award recognises years of hard work and continual investment in the guest experience. We’ve focused on creating something that feels relaxed, welcoming and authentic, while still delivering exceptional quality. To achieve Silver at a national level is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.”

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 brought together finalists from 21 regional and local tourism competitions, with more than 1,800 tourism businesses entering local awards programmes across the country.

Tourism continues to play a vital role in the regional economy, contributing £2.58 billion annually to the Peak District and Derbyshire and supporting thousands of jobs across the area.

To discover more award-winning places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout are two of over 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 Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Refurbished Newbold community hub set to bring residents together

The ground-floor community room at Bonsall Court has been refurbished following a three-year lease agreement between Community Development Chesterfield (CDC) and Chesterfield Borough Council, creating a modern space for local activities.

The refurbishment project was led by six apprentices from the council’s housing property services and housing assets teams, giving them valuable hands-on experience while creating a lasting asset for the community.

Working alongside experienced colleagues, apprentices helped redecorate the building, upgrade electrical systems and lighting, install new facilities and modernise the kitchen. Two apprentices also supported the project through co-project management roles, developing skills towards their qualifications.

The team worked alongside specialist contractors to complete key improvements. Ventro installed a new fire alarm system and fire doors, while Dalton Roofing delivered a new roof system, skylights, soffits and fascias. Additional energy-efficiency upgrades included roof insulation and smart panel radiators, helping to reduce energy use and running costs.

The revitalised space will enable CDC to expand its work in Newbold and support more residents. The organisation already delivers initiatives including its Cosy Hub in Grangewood and youth groups in Duckmanton and Poolsbrook.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“The completion of the refurbishment is a proud moment for our six talented apprentices who have been involved every step of the way. Through their continued commitment, they have not only gained valuable hands-on experience, but they have also delivered a high-quality space that will have a huge benefit for the local community.

We are also pleased to see so many energy-efficient improvements made as part of the project. This contributes to our commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral borough by 2050, while also reducing energy costs for CDC.”

Bonsal Court

Dan Henman, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of Trustees at Community Development Chesterfield, said:

“This new hub will allow us to expand our work in Newbold and deliver a wide range of activities for children, young people, families and older residents.

“We believe strong communities are built when people have somewhere safe, welcoming and inclusive to come together.”

CDC is now working with residents to develop a programme of activities and services that reflect the needs of our local community.

To discover more community projects and developments taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Residents who would like to share ideas for future activities can contact CDC at info@cdchesterfield.com.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Dalton Roofing are two of over 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

Chesterfield welcomes growing dessert business Rassam’s Creamery

Rassam’s Creamery has opened a new store in Chesterfield, bringing its popular range of desserts, ice creams and sweet treats to our town.

The growing dessert brand officially welcomed customers to its new venue at 359 Sheffield Rd, Whittington Moor, on Friday, 5th June 2026. The first 50 visitors even received a free dessert as part of the launch celebrations.

Originally established in Sheffield, Rassam’s Creamery has built a strong reputation for its family-friendly dining experience and extensive dessert menu, making it a popular choice for a sweet treat.

Visitors can enjoy freshly made waffles, crepes, ice creams and milkshakes, alongside traditional favourites including coconut jam sponge, apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding.

Plus, many of the desserts are even delivered by their robot assistants, where waiting staff out on the floor can quickly serve dishes up. A convenient boost for waiting staff and faster service for customers.

The brand has expanded steadily in recent years, opening multiple stores across Sheffield as well as in Manchester, Liverpool and Kenya.

The opening event attracted a strong response from visitors, with queues forming outside the store as families, young people and dessert lovers came to support the new business.

Chief Financial Officer, Anise Ahmed, Rassam’s Creamery, said:

“The opening evening went really well, and we were very pleased with the turnout. We had queues outside the store, which was amazing to see, and the response from the Chesterfield community was really positive.

Chesterfield is a brilliant town with a strong local community, and we hope the store becomes a popular destination for families, young people and dessert lovers.”

To discover more places to eat and drink in Chesterfield this summer, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

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