Home

Local Champions continue to grow

24th November 2025

Local businesses are thriving as several homegrown companies expand their services, launch new offerings, and bring innovative solutions to our region. From workplace wellbeing to technology consulting and iconic property acquisitions, Chesterfield is proving to be a hub for entrepreneurial growth.

Central Technology expands with new North West office in Warrington

Central Technology (CT) has opened a new office in Warrington, marking the company’s fourth location and a key milestone in its growth across the UK. The new office will enable CT to better serve clients in the North West and strengthen its regional presence.

Founded in Chesterfield, Central Technology has built a reputation for delivering innovative IT solutions and technology services to businesses across a range of sectors. Since its launch, they have focused on helping organisations modernise infrastructure, streamline operations, and adopt cutting-edge technology to drive growth.

The company has steadily expanded, establishing offices in key locations to stay close to clients and regional markets.

The Warrington office represents the next step in this expansion, providing a local hub for businesses seeking expert technology support. The team looks forward to building relationships with clients in the area and exploring new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

On-Site workplace pain and injury relief to Chesterfield businesses

Chesterfield businesses now have access to professional pain and injury relief delivered directly on-site, thanks to a new workplace programme from The Body Health Centre. The service helps teams stay healthy, mobile, and pain-free throughout the working day.

The Body Health Centre’s experienced therapists specialise in targeted treatments for workplace-related aches and injuries. From desk-based tension and repetitive strain to physically demanding roles, they help teams:

Reduce aches, stiffness, and fatigue
Prevent work-related injuries
Improve posture and mobility
Boost staff morale and productivity

Businesses can book flexible options, including one-off wellbeing days or regular workplace visits.

Services include on-site sports massage and soft tissue therapy, postural and movement assessments, injury prevention support, and workplace ergonomics advice. Each session is tailored to the business and its team, combining clinical expertise with practical results.

The team delivers evidence-based care and rehabilitation, offering the same professional standard as clinic treatments. Workplaces benefit from fewer sick days, improved energy and focus, and a healthier, happier workforce.

Businesses in Chesterfield and surrounding areas can book a workplace visit or find out more by calling 01246 860317 or emailing tbhc7@outlook.com.

BHP launches expert technology consulting service for Chesterfield SMEs

Chesterfield small and medium-sized businesses can now access specialist technology leadership through a new consultancy from leading accountancy firm BHP.

The Information and Technology Consulting service gives SMEs access to experienced technology leaders without having to hire a full-time IT director. It helps businesses define and deliver tailored technology strategies, either as part of a wider business plan or as a standalone project.

The initiative is led by technology experts Carolyn Pearson and Jim Stott. Carolyn has international experience with the BBC, ITV, easyJet, and KLM, specialising in technical development, programme delivery, and large-scale transformation. Jim brings board-level experience, aligning technology strategy with business outcomes across software development, infrastructure, and service delivery.

Melanie Foster, BHP’s chief information officer, said:
“Technology drives business growth, but SMEs often struggle to know when and how to invest. Our service provides expert guidance to help businesses build value, accelerate growth, improve efficiency, and use data to make informed decisions.”

Mark Roberts, head of consulting at BHP, added:
“Carolyn and Jim bring real-world experience in growth strategy and transformation. Our flexible model delivers expert technology leadership without the cost of a full-time director, letting SMEs focus on their core strengths while maximising business value.”

SMEs start the process with BHP’s TechOrtunity workshops, which provide a deep dive into aligning technology with business goals.

For more information, visit BHP Information and Technology Consulting.

Dawson Radford advises on acquisition of Iconic ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ property

Dawson Radford Solicitors and Sheffield-based Mason Thomas Law have advised on the purchase of Skeldale House in Askrigg, North Yorkshire, the iconic setting for the BBC series All Creatures Great and Small.

The firms worked with entrepreneur Greg Parkin, with Dawson Radford handling the acquisition of the established luxury holiday business and Mason Thomas Law advising on the property itself. The teams completed a complex, time-sensitive transaction smoothly.

Skeldale House, a Grade II listed Wensleydale property, featured in 90 episodes of the BBC series between 1978 and 1990. Built in the early-to-mid 19th century, it has served as a family home, care facility, and B&B before becoming luxury serviced holiday apartments in 2021.

Greg, who previously built and sold several successful construction businesses, said the opportunity to acquire Skeldale House was “too good to miss.” He added: “It’s a very special place. I grew up watching All Creatures Great and Small and have always loved the Dales. Skeldale House captures authenticity, beauty, and a sense of welcome. I want guests to feel the same when they visit.”

The property now offers six luxury serviced suites, a self-contained holiday apartment, and an event space called ‘The Surgery’, featuring original veterinary paraphernalia, James Herriot memorabilia, and photos from filming. Plans include bespoke rural retreat packages to let visitors explore the landscape that inspired James Herriot’s stories.

Cathy Mason, solicitor and director at Mason Thomas Law, said: “Skeldale House is part of Yorkshire’s cultural heritage. Completing the purchase within a tight timeframe was a real team effort. It’s exciting to see the property continue its legacy as a Dales destination.”

For more information, visit www.skeldalehouse.co.uk.

For more information on Chesterfield Champions please click here: Chesterfield Champions

Posted in Business, Home

Chesterfield rewilding project shortlisted for two prestigious awards

22nd November 2025

Based in Cutthorpe, Wild & Other, a 20-acre rewilding project and three sustainable holiday cottages, has been shortlisted in both the Regenerative Tourism Award and New Tourism Business of the Year in the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards.

Wild and Other is celebrating a strong year of awards that highlight its care for nature people and place. Based at Cow Close Farm in Cutthorpe the project continues to gain praise for its gentle approach to sustainable tourism.

The aim is simple. Create spaces where nature flourishes and where people can rest. The team has brought new life to the twenty acre site on the edge of the Peak District. Its three cottages offer calm comfort and space to switch off. As a result guests often slow down and enjoy the land at their own pace.

This approach continues to impress award judges. They praise Wild and Other for its eco conscious design its support for local suppliers and its active work to restore rare habitats. They also highlight the warm visitor experience that defines every stay.

Founders Steve and Emily Coles lead the project with a clear shared vision. Steve works closely with local ecologist Julie Riley to restore meadows hedgerows and woodland. Already barn owls and sparrowhawks have returned and fresh signs of plant and insect life are appearing across the site.

Meanwhile Emily brings the same care to the interiors. She uses natural materials and soft modern comforts to create simple peaceful spaces. As well as her attention to detail also stands out in recent tourism awards.

The team makes clear ethical choices across every part of the site. They use renewable energy and choose sustainable supplies for each cottage. In addition, local and B Corp partners help keep standards high.

The awards push the team to go even further. They plan new ponds to support the great crested newt and new bee banks to give solitary bees a safe home. At the same time they are exploring a second site to expand their impact.

“We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted, especially as we’ve heard that there were a record number of entries this year. Being a finalist for the Regenerative Tourism Award feels particularly special because supporting nature and increasing biodiversity is at the very heart of everything we do.” explains Steve Coles – Co-Founder and Managing Director of Wild & Other.

Overall, Wild and Other continues to grow its reputation as one of the areas most thoughtful eco tourism destinations. Its award success shows the strong impact a small focused team can achieve with a clear purpose.

Posted in Home, Visiting

Exciting new food vendor coming to The Batch House

21st November 2025

Local food lovers have something new to enjoy: Butcher & Catch, the acclaimed Yorkshire-based Meat House and Seafood Bar, is opening at The Batch House.

Since opening in 2021, The Batch House based on Whittington Moor has quickly become a hub for food and social gatherings in Chesterfield. It is part of The Glass Yard, the wider redevelopment of the historic Chesterfield Glass Works, a landmark of the town’s industrial heritage. The Glass Yard now combines artisan food vendors, bars, and creative spaces, with The Batch House serving as a key part of this lively scene.

Butcher & Catch already delights customers in Sheffield, where its stall at the award-winning Cutlery Works Food Hall in Kelham Island serves an innovative and hearty menu. Now, the team is bringing their signature dishes to Chesterfield, promising a dining experience that is both unique and perfectly suited to the Batch House family of vendors.

Highlights of the menu include the Soft-Shell Crab Roll, celebrated for its playful and fresh flavors. Meat lovers can enjoy the Signature Meat Tray, which features local produce such as Pipers Artisan Sausage and Moss Valley baby back ribs. Traditionalists will appreciate proper Fish & Chips with mushy peas—a perfect choice on home match days.

Moreover, Butcher & Catch will keep things exciting with regular specials and a loyalty rewards scheme, ensuring that customers always have something new to try.

“Our feast-like food has already caught the eye of many Chesterfield customers, and we think that our menu offers something different but fits well within the Batch House family of food vendors.”

The Chesterfield stall is expected to open within the next few weeks, and the team encourages locals to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

With its mix of fresh seafood, hearty meats, and inventive dishes, Butcher & Catch looks set to become a must-visit spot for anyone exploring The Batch House.

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure

Olympia House Emporium reopens following flood recovery

20th November 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in Development, Home, Visiting

New homes for local residents

19th November 2025

Work has officially started on a development that will bring 18 brand-new, energy-efficient homes to Mastin Moor in Chesterfield – a major step forward in Chesterfield Borough Council’s commitment to providing more affordable housing for local families.

The scheme is among the first in the region to tap into the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) Brownfield Housing Fund. This fund unlocks stalled developments and turns under-used land into vibrant communities. Backed by the UK Government and delivered with Homes England, it’s driving regeneration across the East Midlands.

Where are the homes being built?

13 council homes on Miller Avenue
5 homes on Edale Road

In total, the development brings seven four-bedroom homes and eleven two-bedroom homes, all allocated to families on the council’s housing register. Henry Boot Construction is leading the build, ensuring every home meets the highest energy-efficiency standards.

Each property will feature:

Solar panels and air source heat pumps to cut energy bills and reduce carbon emissions
Private gardens and off-road parking for residents
Electric vehicle charging points
Bat and bird boxes to support local wildlife

The homes are also located on bus routes, making it easy for families to access local amenities.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “As a council, we remain committed to increasing the supply of affordable housing for local people and this latest project is helping us to achieve this.

“We are really pleased that EMCCA has allocated part of its Brownfield Housing Fund to help deliver this project that will provide much needed homes for local families. We look forward to working with EMCCA and Henry Boot Construction and watching the project progress.

“With the cost of living continuing to rise, we know how important it is to our tenants to keep homes warm but energy costs down, so we’re really pleased to be delivering new properties with the top energy efficiency rating.”

To mark the start of the project, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, joined the Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, and the council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Jean Innes for a site visit hosted by Henry Boot Construction.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This project is a powerful example of how we’re turning our vision for inclusive growth into reality. Through the Brownfield Housing Fund, we’re creating high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local families while supporting greener, more sustainable communities. By investing in places like Mastin Moor, we’re making the East Midlands a region that everyone is proud to call home.”

EMCCA has secured a devolved allocation of Brownfield Housing Fund investment from the UK Government to support the delivery of housing on brownfield sites in the East Midlands. The funding commitment will deliver more than 2,000 high-quality homes, supporting Mayor Claire Ward’s ambition to build 100,000 new homes in the region by 2035.

Mat Clarke, Head of Construction at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council in its mission to deliver affordable, energy-efficient homes for families across the borough.

“It’s great for us to be back in Chesterfield after recently working with the council on its largest housing development in decades at Badger Croft, and we’re delighted to continue playing our part in increasing the local housing supply.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Savings on bus travel now open to all Derbyshire residents

18th November 2025

More people in Derbyshire can now save money on bus travel, thanks to an expanded discount scheme from Derbyshire County Council.

Previously available to companies to support employees, the scheme now includes anyone who joins Derbyshire Community Bank – a local credit union open to people who live, work, or study in Derbyshire and are aged 18 or over.

By becoming a member (which is free and easy to do), residents can access up to 20% off bus season tickets with Arriva and trentbarton, and spread the cost through monthly direct debit payments.

Derbyshire Community Bank is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that offers fair and affordable financial services, including savings accounts and loans. It’s designed to support local people, especially those who may not have access to mainstream banking.

Councillor Charlotte Hill, Cabinet Member for Potholes, Highways and Transport, said:

“I’m pleased that we are able to extend this discount scheme to members of Derbyshire Community Bank.

“Providing cheaper fares for people to get to work or college by using this discount scheme is important in these challenging financial times, and we will do all we can to help people save money.”

Phil Cole from Derbyshire Community Bank added:

“For many of our members, buses are a vital lifeline – helping them stay connected to work, education and family.

“Being able to spread the cost of a season ticket will make a real difference, helping households manage their budgets and ease financial pressure.

“At Derbyshire Community Bank, we’re rooted in the local community and committed to improving people’s lives. This partnership with Travel Derbyshire, Arriva, and trentbarton shows what’s possible when we work together – delivering practical support that truly benefits those who need it most.”

The scheme is part of Derbyshire’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, funded by the UK government, which aims to make public transport more accessible and affordable.

To find out more, join the bank, or apply for discounted travel, visit the Employee Discount Travel Scheme page.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Local businesses lighting up the community

17th November 2025

Local Chesterfield businesses are making a real difference, bringing joy, creativity, and support to the community. From festive Christmas tree campaigns to charity balls celebrating women, these businesses are not just thriving, they’re giving back in big ways.

RSPCA Chesterfield’s Pawfect Pines Christmas tree campaign

RSPCA Chesterfield is spreading festive cheer with its ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign, offering real Christmas trees in a range of sizes, including some up to 10 feet tall.

Collection starts at the charity’s Christmas Fayre on Sunday, 30 November. Visitors can browse and choose their ideal tree, enjoy some fun and games, have a mulled wine, and take a tour of the animal centre. All proceeds from the sale go directly to RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, helping local animals in need.

Lyndsey Dudley, supporter engagement manager, said:

“Our ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign is a wonderful way for people to celebrate the festive season while making a real difference for local animals. Every tree purchased helps us provide care and support for vulnerable pets. We’re inviting the community to get involved and make this Christmas extra special.”

To secure your tree, order online by Monday, 24 November at the RSPCA Chesterfield website, or come along and pick one out in person from Sunday 30 November at the centre in Spital.

Chesterfield business owner hosts Charity Ball for Nottingham Women’s Centre

Chesterfield entrepreneur Gemma Feek is bringing a sparkle to Nottingham next March with the Celebrating Her Charity Ball. The event takes place at Colwick Hall on Friday, 6 March 2026 and will support the Nottingham Women’s Centre.

Gemma, Director of Terrena Ltd and Chesterfield Champion Inspire Design and Development Ltd (IPD Ltd), is celebrating five years of Terrena Ltd alongside the rebrand of IPD Ltd.

Scheduled over International Women’s Day weekend, the ball will bring together professionals and community members from across the East Midlands to honour women and their allies creating positive change.

“I have ambitious goals for this event—it’s going to be a huge celebration!” said Gemma. “We’ve lined up a sax player, aerial acrobat, dancers, a DJ, live band and more. Most importantly, it’s about raising awareness and funds for Nottingham Women’s Centre and the incredible work they do.”

Gemma’s dedication to empowering women stems from her own journey. As a mum who returned to education later in life, she’s passionate about helping others pursue their goals. She’s also training for the London Marathon 2026 to raise additional funds for the Centre.

For more information and tickets, visit: https://lnkd.in/ehAah2t3

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane bring festive cheer for Sheffield Children’s Hospital

Chesterfield shoppers will once again have the chance to add a sparkle to the festive season with snowflakes 2025 at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre. The campaign raises money for Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, helping fund vital care for children and families across the region.

For £200, supporters can gift a personalised Snowflake tag to sit proudly on the front of the Chesterfield Vicar Lane display. Each tag carries your name and brings a little festive magic to shoppers, staff and visitors throughout December.

The Vicar Lane location is one of 13 sites across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire taking part this year, including:

Sheffield Children’s Hospital
Becton Centre
Ryegate Children’s Centre
Sheffield City Hall
Crystal Peaks

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane directly support Sheffield Children’s Hospital, making a real difference for the children and families they care for.

For more information, visit the Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflakes website.

Record number of early-bird entrants to the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

Chesterfield’s popular annual running event, the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, is off to a flying start for 2026. With a record number of runners signing up during the early-bird period.

Next year’s race, taking place on Sunday 17 May, will mark the fifth edition of the event. It has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated sporting occasions, attracting hundreds of runners each year. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants.

This year, 714 people registered during the early-bird period, a more than 25 per cent increase on last year. In 2025, 1,515 runners took part on the day.

The Chesterfield 10K isn’t just about running. The event also raises thousands of pounds for local charities, including Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice, and Bluebell Wood. Supporting people across Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and South Yorkshire.

John Timms, lead organiser and director at MLS Contracts Ltd, said: “It’s fantastic to see early-bird sign-ups grow by a quarter from last year. It shows how much this event means to the local community and the difference it makes for our charity partners.

“General entries are now open, and there’s still plenty of time for anyone wanting to take on the challenge to sign up and start training for the big day. See you in May!”

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home

Aldi Brimington celebrates grand opening with Team GB Olympian

14th November 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Speaking about the opening, Store Manager Rob Hepworth said:

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

Rowan McKellar added:

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

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

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

New video highlights Supported Internships for young people

13th November 2025

A new video is shining a light on how Supported Internships are helping young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) into work.

The film features eight young people from across the East Midlands sharing what inspired them to join and how the experience is shaping their future.

Research by the Connected Futures programme found that many young people and families are unaware of Supported Internships. It also showed that more information is needed on how to access them.

The video aims to raise awareness and show how Supported Internships can make a real difference. It also encourages more employers to take part by offering placements or shorter externships that match an intern’s skills and interests.

Supported Internships are one-year programmes for 16 to 24 year olds with SEND who have an Education Health and Care Plan. Interns work with local employers, gaining experience in real workplaces and building practical skills for paid employment.

Paula Symonds, Projects Manager for Connected Futures, said:

“The campaign video was commissioned to encourage more young people to consider a Supported Internship as a step towards employment. We also want to encourage more employers to offer internships or shorter externships where the intern moves out of the host business to a local employer that is better matched to their skills and future goals.”

The campaign was created by Connected Futures in the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). It is supported by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), Nottinghamshire County Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and Derby City Council.

To find out more and watch the video, visit: www.youtube.com

DEBP is one of over 200 businesses working with Destination Chesterfield to support the town’s economic growth. Find out more about the town’s Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in Business, Home, Skills

East Midlands Investment Zone celebrates first year of growth

12th November 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Investing in places, people, and potential

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

Key achievements include:

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

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

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

Next steps

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

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

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

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

More archaeological discoveries in Rykneld Square

11th November 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Thomas, deputy director of ULAS, said:

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

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

These include brand new:

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

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

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Heritage, Home