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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

£25 million investment fund launched to power growth across the East Midlands

10th November 2025

The East Midlands Combined County Authority EMCCA has announced the opening of its Autumn 2025 Investment Fund, making up to £25 million available to support projects that will drive growth, create jobs, and improve lives across the region.

The announcement was made at EMCCA’s October Investment Committee meeting. The fund will back strategic, deliverable projects that align with the region’s ambition to build a fairer, greener, and more prosperous East Midlands.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This is a major milestone for the East Midlands. By launching this £25m fund, we are backing the brilliant ideas that deliver real results for local people.”

Supporting inclusive growth across the region

This funding round follows the EMCCA Board’s approval in September of a new “twin-tracked” investment approach – supporting both short-term deliverable projects and longer-term strategic programmes that can make a lasting difference.

About 75 project proposals were received though the expression of interest call, representing about £160m of investment opportunities – demonstrating strong demand and ambition across the East Midlands.

A shortlist of projects will now be invited to bring forward full businesses to secure investment.

Mayor Claire said: “We want to see bold, practical projects that will shape the future of our places and our people. This is about supporting businesses to grow, improving skills, and investing in the places we’re proud to call home.”

Looking ahead to a new way of investing

Alongside this funding round, EMCCA is evolving its investment approach. Future funding rounds will move towards a thematic, place-based approach. EMCCA will work closely with public and private partners to develop project portfolios that focus on shared priorities rather than traditional open competitions.

Potential focus areas include:

Town-centre and place renewal.
Strategic employment and innovation sites.
Skills and training infrastructure.
Culture, heritage, sport, and rural development.

Accelerating progress

This new funding announcement builds on the progress EMCCA is already making in the region. EMCCA is delivering significant capital investment projects to support the East Midlands Growth Plan.

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

Explore our heritage this Christmas

7th November 2025

Delve into our charming historic sites this festive season as they come alive with twinkling lights, seasonal cheer, and stories from the past.

Drawn to our magical Christmas markets? Looking for historic halls decked in festive finery? Or simply seeking a memorable day out steeped in tradition? Our historic places offer a unique way to celebrate. Discover events, architecture, and experiences that blend the spirit of Christmas with centuries of our town’s rich history.

Chesterfield Speciality Markets

Chesterfield’s markets have been at the heart of our town for centuries, bringing together local traders and visitors. This festive season, we unveil a fresh new look as part of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, while still preserving the traditions that make them so special.

Stroll through our town centre and explore a vibrant mix of stalls, from local produce and artisan crafts to festive treats. Music lovers can dig through vinyl and memorabilia at the Chesterfield Record Fair, while the Vegan Market serves up delicious plant-based delights. The Artisan Market is ideal for finding unique, handcrafted gifts.

Don’t miss the special market day that kicks off the annual Christmas Lights Switch On – a magical celebration that brings the whole town together.

Barrow Hill roundhouse

A treat for history and railway enthusiasts, Barrow Hill Roundhouse is the last surviving operational railway roundhouse in Britain.

Usually closed during the winter, this year it opens its doors for a few festive days on the 13th and the 14th of December for the final museum open weekend and train running day of the year. Visitors can explore the site’s rich heritage, historic engines and tracks in an atmospheric setting.

Haddon Hall

Step back in time at Haddon Hall, one of England’s finest medieval manor houses. Dating back to the 12th century, Haddon Hall is renowned for its authentic historic charm and stunning interiors.

During the festive season, the hall is beautifully decorated, offering visitors a chance to experience a traditional Christmas in a historic setting. Highlights include the Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market, featuring over 180 talented makers offering the best in luxury gifts and seasonal delights.

Reproduced with the kind permission of Haddon Hall

The Crooked Spire

No festive trip is complete without a visit to the Crooked Spire of St Mary and All Saints Church – the largest church in Derbyshire and a true Chesterfield icon.

This Christmas, the church once again hosts the Festival of Christmas Trees, where schools, groups and local people decorate dozens of themed trees. New this year, an immersive light and sound show will fill the church with colour, music and festive magic.

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House transforms into a winter wonderland, with its grand architecture, landscaped gardens, and festive decorations. Home to the Dukes of Devonshire for over 500 years, it’s a must-visit during the Christmas period.

This year’s theme, The Enchanted Garden, invites visitors to discover the quiet beauty and hidden magic of the nature in midwinter. Outside, the Christmas market features over 100 stalls, live music, seasonal food and festive drinks.

Courtesy of Chatsworth House Trust’ DPC Photography

Hardwick Hall

Built by Elizabethan heiress Bess of Hardwick, Hardwick Hall is known for its towering windows and ornate interiors.

This festive season, the hall comes alive with Hardwick Wintertide. The theme, The Tale of Misrule and the Holly King, brings a playful twist, with stories, performances, and decorations throughout. You can also enjoy hands-on workshops, from wreath-making to historic embroidery, or attend enjoy late-night openings with mulled wine and glowing gardens.

Bolsover Castle

Explore the romantic ruins of Bolsover Castle, standing proudly above the Derbyshire countryside.

This Christmas, the castle once again hosts the Bolsover Lantern Parade, one of the UK’s biggest and longest-running light processions. Organised by Junction Arts, the parade has lit up the town since 1994, with hundreds of handmade lanterns and thousands of spectators. The night before, experience Bright Winter Nights, an immersive light show inside the castle walls, celebrating 30 years of lantern-making through light, sound, and local stories.

Renishaw Hall

Set among beautiful gardens and woodland, Renishaw Hall is a hidden gem for heritage lovers. Dating back to the late 17th century, it has been home to the Sitwell family for generations.

During the festive season, the house and gardens are illuminated with magical lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family visits or romantic, winter walks.

To discover more magical events and things to do this festive period, visit the Chesterfield Christmas website.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Celebrate Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield’s collaborative spirit drives economic growth and skills development in manufacturing

6th November 2025

Chesterfield has a well-established manufacturing heritage and a proven track record of cross-sector collaboration. Across education, business, local government, and strategic partnerships, the town demonstrates how joined-up thinking can boost economic growth, skills development, and place transformation.

At a recent roundtable hosted by Destination Chesterfield, held at the Casa Hotel, participants highlighted Chesterfield’s ability to bring people together and how this continues to support the growth of the local manufacturing sector.

“We’ve got a very cooperative business community in Chesterfield,” said Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller. “We get used to it and forget how good it is. When I talk about it in other places, they wish they had it.”

This collaboration is the result of years of relationship-building, shared initiatives, and a commitment to cross-sector working. The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Manufacturing Forum, Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield play vital roles in connecting people and aligning efforts.

Lynda Sharp, Economic Development Manager at Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“We’ve got 335 manufacturing businesses, which is 9% of our total, compared to a national average of 4.5%. There’s strength in numbers, and opportunity.”

Through collaboration, major projects are being completed, driving the sector’s long-term growth and attracting investor interest. These include the new Investment Zone, the DRiiVE rail innovation centre, and the Engineering, Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre at Chesterfield College.

These developments also extend into education and workforce engagement, ensuring long-term sector resilience.

Rhys Robinson, Director of Employer Partnerships at Chesterfield College, shared how the college is embedding employer engagement into its curriculum. He said:

“We’ve developed a partnership framework that allows us to understand what our employers need, recognise collaboration, and measure the output. It’s about making the college a community space where employers come and go, shaping the curriculum and supporting students.”

The University of Derby is taking a similar approach. Rob Ricketts, Industry Engagement Lead, said:

“We’re aiming to be the most industry-engaged university in the UK. That means every academic must bring industry into their teaching. We’re flipping the model, students will leave with real experience, not just theory.”

This joined-up approach is helping Chesterfield respond to national challenges such as skills shortages, funding uncertainty, and shifting policy landscapes.

Ian Bates, Director of Policy at East Midlands Chamber, said:

“We’ve had a lot of changes in funding. But if you’ve got a framework to deliver support and the funding feeds into that, it makes things simpler. Businesses don’t always need help when you knock on the door; they need it when they need it.”

Destination Chesterfield plays a key role in highlighting the support on offer and opportunities to collaborate.

Dom Stevens, Head of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“We’re a marketing organisation, but we’re also a collaboration organisation. We bring people together to support the economy and the people of Chesterfield.”

As the East Midlands Combined County Authority launches its inclusive growth strategy, Chesterfield is well-positioned to support delivery through its coordinated, cross-sector approach. Strategic investment, strong partnerships, and collaborative initiatives underpin the town’s ability to turn ambition into action.

Initiatives such as the Made in Chesterfield Festival have evolved into region-wide programmes that connect businesses and students with real opportunities. Meanwhile, coordinated investment in place marketing has helped to raise the borough’s profile and attract growth.

Get Involved
If you are a business based in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire and would like to support a collaborative approach to inclusive growth, discover more about Destination Chesterfield and the Chesterfield Champions at www.chesterfield.co.uk/champions.

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

Chesterfield Investment Summit showcases £2bn pipeline and 7,800 job opportunities

5th November 2025

The Chesterfield Investment Summit has spotlighted a bold vision for the borough’s future, unveiling a £2 billion regeneration pipeline poised to deliver over 7,800 new jobs, 3,900 homes, and £473 million in annual GVA to the local economy.

Held on 5 November 2025, the Summit brought together investors, developers, and civic leaders to explore the transformative opportunities across Chesterfield and Staveley. Central to the discussions was the East Midlands Growth Plan, presented by East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward, which aims to create 100,000 jobs, deliver 52,000 homes, and boost the regional economy by £4 billion over the next decade.

The Mayor emphasised Chesterfield and Staveley’s strategic role in the plan, through the Canal Corridor, which has been identified as a priority area for regeneration and investment.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands is open for business. Our Inclusive Growth Strategy is about unlocking opportunity across every part of the region, and Chesterfield and Staveley are central to that ambition. The Canal Corridor is a priority area for regeneration, and we’re committed to supporting investment that delivers real benefits for communities.”

The Summit emphasised inclusive growth, with speakers and delegates reinforcing the need for economic development to benefit local people and communities. Chesterfield Borough Council Leader Councillor Tricia Gilby reinforced this message: “We’re not pursuing growth for growth’s sake. Our focus is on inclusive growth, ensuring that investment in Chesterfield translates into better jobs, stronger communities, and opportunities for everyone. The Investment Summit is a powerful platform to show how our plans are rooted in local need and ambition.”

Delegates learned more about the East Midlands Investment Zone, including incentives available for investors and details of the Staveley Hartington site. The Summit also spotlighted major developments such as Peak Resort and town centre regeneration in both Chesterfield and Staveley. Investors shared insights into why they are choosing to invest in retail, leisure, community, residential and office opportunities across the borough.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Chesterfield is open for business. We have the sites, the partnerships, and the ambition to deliver transformational change. The Investment Summit is about connecting opportunity with action, and we’re ready to welcome investors who share our vision.”

The Chesterfield Investment Summit was organised by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with the Devonshire Group and Tawnywood, and supported by East Midlands Chamber and We Are Spaces.

Discover more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield at www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments.

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