Home

Local government leaders submit proposals for future of local services

Leaders from Chesterfield Borough Council, seven other district and borough councils, and Derby City Council have officially submitted their proposals for the future of local government in Derbyshire.

The plan, called ‘One Derbyshire, Two Councils’, aims to reduce the number of local authorities in the county from ten to two. One council would cover the north of Derbyshire, and one would cover the south.

The submission sets out how two unitary councils could deliver services more effectively while staying connected to local communities. Leaders say the new councils would:

  • Provide value-for-money services, especially for adult care, children’s services, SEND, and homelessness.

  • Protect Derbyshire’s historic boundaries, culture, and environment.

  • Meet Government criteria for unitary councils, each serving around 500,000 people.

  • Support the Mayor of the East Midlands and the East Midlands Combined County Authority in growing the regional economy.

The plan includes four proposals, differing mainly on where the boundary between the north and south councils would be drawn.

  • Proposal A (supported by Amber Valley Borough Council) places Amber Valley in the northern council with Chesterfield, High Peak, Derbyshire Dales, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover. Derby City, South Derbyshire, and Erewash would form the southern council.

  • Proposal B (supported by South Derbyshire District Council) swaps Amber Valley into the southern council.

  • Proposals A1 and B1 refine these options further using parish boundaries within Amber Valley to decide which areas would join which council.

In a joint statement, council leaders said:
“The needs of our communities – now and in the future – are at the heart of our approach. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to modernise council services while protecting Derbyshire’s heritage and environment.”

The statement highlighted ambitions to deliver more efficient services, attract investment in housing, transport, and infrastructure, and create jobs for local residents.

Derbyshire County Council has separately proposed a single unitary council for the whole county, serving 1.1 million people – similar in size to Birmingham City Council. Leaders of the other councils, however, say two councils would better serve local communities.

The proposals are based on extensive research and a public consultation, which received input from more than 7,300 residents, businesses, and organisations. Financial analysis forecasts £167 million in savings over six years, with annual savings of £44 million from year six onwards. Initial setup costs for the new councils would be recovered in around three-and-a-half years.

The Government will review all proposals and carry out further consultation in 2026. If approved, elections for the new councils’ shadow authorities would take place in 2027, with full operation beginning in April 2028.

This is a pivotal moment in shaping the future of Derbyshire’s local government, aiming to deliver stronger services and better outcomes for residents across the county.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Mayor launches 12-week transport consultation

The Mayor of the East Midlands has launched what is being described as the region’s biggest listening exercise in decades – a 12-week public conversation aimed at shaping a new 15-year transport vision for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

A high-level Local Transport Vision document has been published, setting out the Mayor’s ambition to make travelling across the region easier, cleaner and better connected. The plan is intended to support inclusive growth by improving access to jobs, skills, education and essential services.

Residents, businesses and community groups are now being invited to take part in the Mayor’s Big Transport Conversation, which will help inform the development of the full transport plan.

Mayor Claire Ward said:
“For too many people in the East Midlands, life doesn’t work because transport doesn’t work. When buses don’t turn up, roads are full of potholes or trains are too expensive, it affects work, education, healthcare and family life.

“I want public transport to be an easy and affordable choice for everyone. I want communities connected to one another, not just to large cities. And I want our roads and infrastructure to be maintained to a high standard.

“That is how we will make life work for everyone – connecting communities, supporting business, reducing inequality and helping the region grow fairly.”

Six fights for a fairer, better-connected East Midlands

The Mayor’s emerging plan is built around six key priorities – described as “fights” – that reflect what matters most to residents, businesses and the wider region. People are now being invited to share their views on what a modern, fair and affordable transport network should look like in the years ahead.

  • Fighting congestion

Congestion impacts productivity, wellbeing and the environment. The Mayor wants to hear how important it is to tackle traffic and what local solutions could work best.

  • Fighting for young people’s independence

A fair transport system should provide young people with safe, affordable and independent travel, helping them reach education, training and social opportunities.

  • Fighting for connected communities

Schools, hospitals, major employers and town centres should be accessible without relying on infrequent or unreliable links. The Mayor wants to understand the improvements needed.

  • Fighting for reliable public transport

From overcrowded buses to patchy timetables, reliability remains a key challenge. The plan aims to identify and fix gaps in provision so every community has accessible, dependable travel options.

  • Fighting for better roads

Road quality matters to drivers, cyclists and businesses alike. The Mayor is asking how much of the transport budget should go toward road maintenance compared with other priorities.

  • Fighting for safe and clean bus stops

Poorly lit, unmaintained or inaccessible bus stops are a major barrier to public transport use. The Mayor wants to know what residents need to make bus stops welcoming and reliable.

A transport plan focused on people

The Local Transport Plan sets out three long-term goals:

  • Making public transport easier to use and better value for money

  • Providing more travel choices that reduce car dependency and connect every community

  • Upgrading and maintaining highways to ensure they are safe, reliable and resilient

For the first time, the Mayor has powers to plan transport as a single, joined-up network, bringing buses, trams, trains, walking and cycling routes together across the region.

Billions of pounds of investment are expected to follow over the coming years, supporting a transport system designed to boost fairness, economic growth and sustainability.

The Mayor’s Big Transport Conversation runs from 17 November 2025 to 8 February 2026.
Residents can take part and share their views via the consultation webpage.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

SDE Energy Solutions powers sustainability at Markham Vale

A major solar installation by SDE Energy Solutions, part of Chesterfield Champion SDE Group, has helped bilstein group take a big step in its sustainability journey at Markham Vale.

The renewables specialist installed 1,555 solar panels across 3,036.5 m² of roof space at the bilstein group distribution centre, based at Markham Vale. As a result, the company now generates a large portion of its own clean energy. Early data shows that 77.7 percent of the electricity produced is used directly on site. This powers day-to-day operations and office functions.

“We are delighted to support bilstein group in reaching such an important sustainability milestone,” said Aaron Olver, Technical Director at SDE Energy Solutions. “This project shows how targeted solar solutions can deliver both environmental and economic benefits, helping businesses take control of their energy usage.”

Paul Dodgson, Managing Director for bilstein group UK said “Sustainability is central to every major decision we make. Our new solar installation spans 3,036.5 m² of roof space and now supplies clean, renewable energy to our operations and offices. It cuts our reliance on fossil fuels, supports long-term energy savings, and delivers an annual carbon reduction equal to planting roughly 7,000 trees”

Paul went on to say “We are proud of the collaborative project with SDE Energy Solutions. By working together, we have taken a major step forward towards our sustainability goals. Thank you to everyone involved in the project for their hard work and professionalism, from start to finish.”

This project not only highlights bilstein group’s commitment to sustainable practices but also serves as a strong example for other manufacturers and distributors considering investment at Markham Vale. Businesses looking to grow sustainably in the region can see how renewable energy solutions can be integrated effectively, delivering both environmental and financial benefits.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

Council receives national award for innovative construction skills support

The Construction Skills Hub, operated by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with local organisations, has been awarded National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

This national recognition highlights Chesterfield’s leadership as a centre of excellence for construction training and best practice in local labour processes. It further strengthens collaboration between the council, CITB, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group to expand opportunities at the Construction Skills Hub.

Achieving the new status provides a formal framework for delivering local labour initiatives. Contractors including, Stepnell, Vistry, and Harron Homes will now collaborate more closely with the hub to boost skills development and employment opportunities for local residents.

The Construction Skills Hub, a sector-specific training facility linked to the Devonshire Group’s emerging development at Mastin Moor, is a flagship project within the Staveley Town Deal. Over the next decade, it is expected to support more than 5,000 learners, from school pupils exploring careers to adults seeking to re-skill, providing careers insights, training and work experience.

The hub has been created to help tackle well-documented skills shortages across the construction industry. CITB’s latest Industry Outlook Report highlights that the East Midlands alone needs over 3,000 new construction workers every year until 2029 to keep pace with demand for housing and infrastructure.

The Construction Skills Hub is a unique collaboration between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby and the Devonshire Group. The project supports the council’s ambition to make Chesterfield a thriving, modern borough and improve the quality of life for local people.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said:

“I’m delighted Chesterfield Borough Council has received this award. As the first council in our region to enter into this positive partnership with the CITB, we are truly leading the way when it comes to providing support for skills development.

Securing National Skills Academy for Construction qualifying status endorses our approach to creating fantastic opportunities for local people arising from development, not only through training but also by strengthening the local supply chain. The work we do has real impact too—students at our Construction Skills Hub are more than three times more likely to go into construction-related employment, giving them the best chance to build a bright future in our borough.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School (Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive) at Chesterfield College, said: “Being awarded the status of National Skills Academy for Construction is another huge milestone for our Skills Hub.

The quality of our training begins with its unique setting – a live construction site, where students gain real-world experience from day one. This hands-on approach is strengthened by the expertise of our industry-leading tutors. They equip students with the practical skills and knowledge employers need to tackle the well-documented skills gap in construction.

This initiative continues to go from strength to strength, demonstrating the powerful impact that collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and local community can achieve. Securing NSAfC status will further deepen our partnership with employers, enabling us to support both the recruitment of new talent and the upskilling of existing staff.”

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director at the Devonshire Group, emphasised the long-term value of the project: “The Devonshire Group is delighted to support the Construction Skills Hub, and this latest achievement is a credit to all the teams involved.

Creating great communities is core to our values, and we hope to create a lasting legacy for Chesterfield by supporting construction skills for those who will help build communities in the future.”

Nathan Wilkins, Customer Engagement Manager for the East Midlands and East of England at CITB, added: “We’re excited to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council and local partners to bring the National Skills Academy for Construction to the area.

This collaboration will create new opportunities for local people to gain high-quality training, apprenticeships and careers, ensuring major developments directly benefit the community. CITB is proud to help strengthen the local workforce and support Chesterfield’s growth for years to come.” 

Cllr jean Innes and nathan wilkins skills

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Development, Home, Skills

Mayor sets out £4.8m boost for East Midlands tourism and investment

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward has unveiled plans for the new Visit East Midlands and Invest East Midlands programmes to strengthen the region’s profile and drive growth.

The initiatives will spotlight the East Midlands as both a leading UK visitor destination and a prime investment region, and were signed off by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board on the 24th November. EMCCA will provide £4.8 million in baseline funding over the next two years to strengthen the visitor economy, support local businesses, and attract new investment into Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The move supports the newly published East Midlands Growth Plan and is expected to help EMCCA leverage further Government and private sector contributions as it works towards its £13 billion growth ambition.

A unified approach to promotion and growth

A new Visit East Midlands partnership will be formed to promote the region’s attractions, develop new experiences, build a clear identity for the area and deliver coordinated campaigns to encourage more visitors from the UK and internationally.

Running alongside it, Invest East Midlands will work with partners to attract new businesses and investment, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “Visit East Midlands was something I promised to deliver when I was elected, because working together as one region is how we put the East Midlands back on the map. We won’t grow if we don’t work together to achieve it – and this moment is a key milestone in defining how that collaborative work will look when it comes to attracting visitors and boosting investment.

“The investment we are making to set this in motion puts in place the building blocks to power our regional economy and will be the foundation for future investment. We will work hard to ensure this investment pays off.”

Strengthening regional identity

The decision follows a review into how economic development functions,including visitor economy, business support and inward investment, are currently organised across the region. With the UK Shared Prosperity Fund due to end in March, the review highlighted the need for improved coordination and a clearer regional identity and brand.

In response, EMCCA will invest in three major programmes:

  • Invest East Midlands – Driving regional effort through working with partners such as Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Marketing Derby, Destination Chesterfield and Freeport to bring in new investment and support business growth.

  • Visit East Midlands – Promoting the region, working with partners such as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire and Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to grow the visitor economy and develop new visitor experiences and campaigns.

  • East Midlands Growth Hub – Providing support and advice to help local businesses start and grow, delivered in partnership with universities and the private sector.

Detailed plans for each programme will now be developed with regional investment and visitor economy partners, councils, businesses and national organisations.

Mayor Claire Ward continued: “I will continue fighting for more investment to come into this region so we can deliver real change. This new approach will ensure the East Midlands gets the attention, recognition and money it needs to help me do that.”

Chair of EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board, David Williams, said: “I welcome the Mayor’s decisive action to use EMCCA funds to invest in the future of the East Midlands. In a time where funding is challenging, this commitment will enable us to strengthen our regional economy, enhance our visitor offer and create the conditions for sustainable business growth, driving prosperity for communities and businesses alike, strengthening the positioning of the East Midlands as a leading destination for investment and tourism.”

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

Sheet Anchor Evolve expands Chesterfield portfolio

Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, has completed the acquisition of 9, 11–13 Market Place in Chesterfield, further strengthening its investment presence in the town. The property comprises two retail units, let to Card Factory and Primark, occupying a prominent position in the heart of Chesterfield.

This latest purchase follows Sheet Anchor Evolve’s acquisition of Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in June this year, as part of its ongoing commitment to invest in and enhance Chesterfield’s town centre offering.

Chris Daly, Director at Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core said, “This acquisition builds on our long-term investment in Chesterfield and reflects our confidence in the town’s continued evolution. We’re increasingly focused on creating mixed-use environments that bring together retail, leisure, workspace, and residential elements.

“At Vicar Lane, we’re currently undertaking a strategic review to explore how we can enhance the tenant mix, improve public spaces, and introduce complementary uses. Our goal is to ensure the centre continues to serve the community while remaining relevant and resilient for the long term”.

Sam Cohen, Asset Manager at Sheet Anchor Evolve, will oversee the management of the property. The transaction was completed by solicitor Andrea Livingstone of Clarke Willmott on behalf of the landlord, with Brad Maher from Cited acting as agent.

For further opportunities at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, contact Sam Cohen at scohen@saevolve.com

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

Festive season launched in Chesterfield

The Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On event took place yesterday, 23 November, entertaining thousands of residents and visitors and launching an exciting festive period in Chesterfield.

Visitor’s enjoyed street entertainment, Tipi Christmas, a market, funfair, the opportunity to meet Bluey, Merry Baubles Trail, and the stage show that entertained the crowd before the festive lights were switched on.

The stage show took place outside the Town Hall this year due to the exciting renovation works taking place in the town centre.  Following the stage show, people were led back into the Market Place by a musical procession hosted by the LED drummers.

Crowds watching Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On Stage show

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On event was a huge success with visitors enjoying lots of free entertainment throughout the day. There aren’t many places you can go to enjoy no-cost activities, so I’m delighted that the variety of street entertainers and stage shows was able to attract so many

people into the town centre to enjoy their Sunday.”

Chesterfield is encouraging the whole family to discover something new this festive season, including a unique range of activities that are taking place for the first time in the heart of the town (including many that are free).

The planned entertainment is once again expected to attract thousands of visitors to Chesterfield.  Highlights this year include an impressive light experience at the Church of All and Mary All Saints (the Crooked Spire), storytelling with Santa, a cosy tipi to share a drink with friends at Chesterfield Market, and the Festival of Christmas Trees.

You can keep up to date with these and other activities happening in Chesterfield across the festive period here: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Home, Stay, Visiting

Local Champions continue to grow

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.

Two female employees collaborate in office while looking at computer

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.

BHP Carolyn Pearson and Jim Stott

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.

Skeldale house

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

Posted in Business, Home

Chesterfield rewilding project shortlisted for two prestigious awards

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.

Wild and other

Posted in Home, Visiting

Exciting new food vendor coming to The Batch House

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.

Butcher and Catch

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure

Olympia House Emporium reopens following flood recovery

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.

Olympia House Emporium

Posted in Development, Home, Visiting