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Breathing new life into a communal garden

Green-fingered tenants in Chesterfield have been busy breathing new life into their communal garden – creating a vibrant space for neighbours to come together.

Tenants at Glebe Court in Old Whittington, which is an independent living scheme owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, have been able to transform the shared outdoor space after they secured £200 in funding from Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s ‘Feeling Connected’ funding stream.

The funding has enabled the purchase of plants, bird feeders and gardening equipment, all of which have contributed to a greener, more welcoming environment for the residents to enjoy.

To make the garden accessible to all, tenants have also repurposed old trestle tables from the recently-regenerated Chesterfield Market to create raised planting beds – ensuring that those with mobility needs can take part in the transformation project too and enjoy the communal area to its full potential.

Further funding has also been secured by the tenants to buy some water butts, allowing rainwater to be recycled to help maintain the outdoor space.

Initially led by two of the scheme’s residents, the project has blossomed into a vibrant community project, with more tenants getting involved and helping to enhance the outdoor space.

Tenants have already noticed a marked increase in bird activity and have commented on how much more pleasant the garden feels.

Tenants Ian and Julie have been heavily involved in the transformation of the communal garden. They said: “When we first moved in we noticed that the garden was more landscaped, and we talked with other tenants about turning it into a native wildlife garden as it was all sterile before and didn’t really attract wildlife.

“People now sit outside and listen to the birds and enjoy looking at the flowers, it makes people feel happy.”

Margret is another one of the tenants who has been involved with the project. She said: “I’ve always loved gardening and had to leave a lot of plants at my old house when I moved here. It’s good to have help from other tenants as it can be harder for me to garden now and we help each other out with equipment, plants and different tasks. Carl, one of my neighbours at Glebe Court, has helped me with planting and watering.  Some of us will have trips out to the garden centre too, to choose plants for the garden.

“I can see the garden from my flat window and it looks nice. We have more wildlife in the garden now too, including birds, squirrels and even an owl who visits.”

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “It’s been fantastic to see tenants at Glebe Court coming together to transform their communal garden and I’m looking forward to visiting soon so I can see what they have achieved.

“As well as creating a more vibrant area, this project has also created opportunities to socialise more, with tenants gathering more frequently than they usually would to work collaboratively to create a space that they can all enjoy together.

“As part of our commitment to tackling loneliness and social isolation, all of our independent living schemes offer communal areas to allow residents to come together, so it’s great to see that this space is being enjoyed and the tenants are transforming it into an area that they can be proud of.”

Encouraged by the success of the initial improvements, tenants are now applying for additional funding to allow them to continue working together to develop the garden.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

New exhibition celebrates Chesterfield’s railway heritage

Railway Town is a free exhibition that will be hosted at the Winding Wheel Theatre from Tuesday 7 October until Wednesday 29 October and open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 1pm and from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Marking the 200th anniversary of the modern railway the exhibition will explore the history of Chesterfield’s three railway lines, the connection to industries in Brampton and the town’s connection with the father of the railways, George Stephenson.

There will also be a series of talks about the history of the railways, including an illustrated slideshow presentation by Stephen Gay on Saturday 18 October, this explores his favourite railway lines – featuring stories of his adventures with his faithful German Shepherd dog Wrawby, historical information, poetry readings and lots of laughs.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The development of railways helped industries in Chesterfield to grow. And of course, we have a special connection with George Stephenson with him choosing to spend his final years in our town.

“This exhibition will help you explore this history and understand the incredible impact the railways have had in our town and with this year being an important anniversary of the rail industry there has never been a better time to uncover this history.”

Photographs and maps that are included in this exhibition have been shared by The Intrepids, a railway walking group.

This exhibition is part of Museum on the Move, which aims to ensure that whilst Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre are closed for refurbishment residents and visitors can still connect with our borough’s history and culture.

This is the latest event in Chesterfield to celebrate Railway 200.  Barrow Hill Roundhouse near Chesterfield will also host a spectacular three-day gala this October.

From Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October 2025, visitors will experience a once-in-a-generation celebration at the UK’s only surviving operational railway roundhouse. The event will feature iconic locomotives, including the legendary A3 60103 “Flying Scotsman”, which will be on display and hauling trains across the weekend.

Discover more events happening in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Half term, Home, Leisure

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is being given a new lease of life

The refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is progressing rapidly and will create an enhanced community building with healthcare facilities.

Barrow Hill Community Trust is leading the multi-million pound refurbishment of its historic home which is partly funded by the Staveley Town Deal.

The construction began in January 2025 and has progressed quickly with the installation of a new roof and skylight, a new heating system for the whole building and the internal layout of the building has been adapted to create healthcare facilities and an expanded community space.

The next phase of works will see internal walls finished, a kitchen fitted out, the relaying of historic parquet flooring and works to finish the ground floor – ready to welcome the community back in December 2025.

The first phase of works is funded by the Staveley Town Deal and a recent visit showed how much progress has been made.

The first phase of works, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, is focussed on the ground floor, and work to protect the building. It includes the installation of a new roof and skylight which will help brighten up a new community café bar, the creation of new spaces which will be used for healthcare provision, and improvements to essential systems in the building which will allow it to be a valuable community facility for many years to come.

Barrow Hill Community Trust has big plans for future phases of the project with other external funding being used to create a new community reading room, a venue suitable for live music and events, a family centre, and an enhanced space for youth provision.

Discover more about Staveley Town Deal Projects

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

City and Guilds present Excellence Award to Chesterfield College Group this National Manufacturing Day

Chesterfield College Group is absolutely delighted to have received an End Point Assessment Excellence Award from Awarding Body City and Guilds in recognition for exceptional apprenticeship success rates.

With several areas registering 100% success rates including Fabrication Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Metal Fabrication and Data Technician, the college’s long standing reputation for quality apprenticeship training is going from strength to strength.

Jonathan Price, City & Guilds Business Development Manager – Central North explains, “City & Guilds are proud to partner Chesterfield College and recognise their fantastic EPA achievements. The college has well above benchmark success rates and the work staff do to make sure apprentices are looked after from day 1. The commitment to the apprentices and to support local and regional employers is clear to see. It is no surprise to see growth in apprenticeships year on year. The college also work hard to make sure the right learners go on to the right apprenticeships which has had a fantastic impact on retention and success rates.”

Director of Engineering, Digital and Services to Business at Chesterfield College Group, Rhys Robinson explains, “I am incredibly proud of the dedication, hard work, and commitment shown by our team in supporting both apprentices and employers. Their efforts have led to a significant increase in retention and success rates, with over 100 successful EPA achievements facilitated through City & Guilds last year alone. Being recognised for excellence in EPA is a fantastic honour, and it reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality programmes that develop the future workforce.”

If you’re interested in taking on an apprentice in your business, Chesterfield College Group can provide a clear, uncomplicated path for you to follow. Take a look at the college’s hub of information for employers here.

If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, then why not take a look at the subjects on offer here? An interview with Chesterfield College is all it takes to add you to our talent pool of next-generation talent for employers to choose from.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Skills

Chesterfield celebrates National Manufacturing Day

Over 100 students from five schools got an exciting behind-the-scenes look at Chesterfield’s leading manufacturers as part of the first large-scale National Manufacturing Day event in Derbyshire.

Organised as part of the Made in Chesterfield Festival with support from the Work-wise Foundation, Destination Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire Council, the event coincided with Make UK’s nationwide open house on 25 September, when manufacturers across the UK opened their doors to students, communities and the public.

Pupils from The Bolsover School, Tupton Hall, Parkside Community School, Springwell Community College and Early Life Enterprise visited United Cast Bar, CBE+, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd, Penny Engineering and Weightron Bilanciai Ltd.

The day included factory tours, hands-on workshops, and an Innovation Challenge in the morning, with students presenting their ideas at Barrow Hill Roundhouse in the afternoon. Participants discovered a variety of manufacturing processes, as well as insights into engineering, design, and project management.

Event organiser, David Beet from United Cast Bar Ltd, said: “National Manufacturing Day is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and innovation happening right here in Chesterfield and Derbyshire. It’s inspiring to see young people so engaged and excited about the career possibilities in manufacturing.”

Nick Catt, Managing Director at Weightron Bilanciai Ltd and board member for Destination Chesterfield, added, “Here in Chesterfield, we’re proud to be part of a community that not only makes world-class products but also invests in the next generation of talent. Events like the Innovation Challenge for National Manufacturing Day demonstrate to young people that manufacturing isn’t just about machines, but also about ideas and collaboration.  It was fantastic to see so many schools taking part and businesses opening their doors and minds to inspire tomorrow’s engineers and creators.  What a great way to launch this year’s Made in Chesterfield Festival.”

National Manufacturing Day celebrates the diversity of UK manufacturing and helps strengthen connections between education and industry, supporting the development of the skilled workforce needed for the future.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “National Manufacturing Day is a fantastic opportunity for local young people to learn more about industries right here in Chesterfield.

“Initiatives like Made in Chesterfield provide us with the opportunity to work in partnership with businesses and the community sector so we can help local people develop the skills to progress in their careers or access new opportunities as they become available.

“Chesterfield Borough Council prides itself on the relationships that have been formed between schools and businesses, allowing students to find out more about the options open to them in the workplace.”

North East Derbyshire District Council Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Cllr Jayne Barry, said, “This is a great opportunity for our next generation of innovators to get hands-on with employers, opening new doors and insights into the world of work.

“As a council, we are passionate about helping our local economy grow and provide real chances of high-skilled employment for our communities, and this festival does just that.”

The Made in Chesterfield Festival runs until the end of October, providing young people with the opportunity to learn more about manufacturing and engineering careers in Chesterfield.

Made in Chesterfield is organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership in association with Chesterfield College and supported by Chesterfield Borough Council, the EMCCA Career Hub, United Cast Bar Ltd and MSE Hiller.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Skills

Capital Angling hooks unit at Markham Vale

Capital Angling has snapped up the first unit at ARK, a new £27million GDV scheme at Markham Vale, a flagship industrial scheme delivered by HBD, part of Henry Boot.

The leading fishing brand has taken a 17,050sq ft unit at the sustainable new industrial and logistics (I&L) development close to the M1 in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Work began on-site in Spring 2025 to deliver the first phase of ARK, which includes four units ranging from 17,000sq ft to 36,000sq ft. The buildings will complete later this year.

ARK is being developed by Origin, a joint venture partnership between HBD and Feldberg Capital.

Origin is committed to delivering ESG-compliant I&L space and ARK is no exception, with all four units targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings.

HBD recently submitted a planning application for the final 53,000sq ft unit at the scheme. Work is expected to begin on-site later this year subject to planning consent.

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is an attractive location for fast-growing businesses like Capital Angling, which can take advantage of its strategic location right off the M1 and its excellent infrastructure. We’re pleased to be able to provide the business with high-quality, sustainable space as it continues to expand; we’ve no doubt that ARK will prove a very successful location.”

Jamie Acheson, Managing Director of Feldberg Capital, commented: “Securing Capital Angling as our first pre-let at ARK marks an important milestone for the development, with their decision validating our focus on delivering best-in-class, sustainable industrial and logistics space in strategic UK locations. We look forward to building on this success over the coming months as we approach practical completion.”

Markham Vale is a landmark 200-acre I&L scheme delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. An award-winning development, it sits at the heart of the motorway network with direct access to the M1 via J29a. More than 2,600 new jobs have been created since work began, with occupiers including Great Bear and Sterigenics.

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Pandora opens new concept store at Vicar Lane

The world’s largest jewellery brand, Pandora, is set to unveil its brand-new store on Thursday 27th September at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, marking the first letting for Street Anchor Evolve who purchased the centre in June 2025.

The new concept store has been designed to showcase Pandora’s craftsmanship, creativity, and contemporary style in a fresh and immersive environment. Visitors will be able to explore Pandora’s latest jewellery lines, discover custom styling options, and enjoy a welcoming in-store experience tailored to inspire self-expression.

To celebrate the launch, the first 50 My Pandora members through the door at 10.00am will receive a £30 Pandora gift voucher, making the opening day extra special for early visitors.

Sarah Bowler, Centre Manager: “We’re thrilled to welcome Pandora as the first leƫng under Street Anchor Evolve’s ownership. This opening strengthens our commitment to offering customers a vibrant mix of global brands and unique shopping experiences right here in Chesterfield.”

Pandora adds to the vibrant mix of popular high street brands and independent retailers at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, helping to enhance the centre’s reputation as the go-to destination for shopping in the region.

Discover more about shopping in Chesterfield

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

Tourism in Peak District and Derbyshire worth £3.58 billion

Tourism in the Peak District and Derbyshire continues to thrive, with new STEAM (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor) figures for 2024 revealing a record £3.58 billion contribution to the local economy – a 9.1% increase on 2023, or around 6% in real terms, when adjusted for inflation.

The latest data highlights the growing strength and resilience of the area’s visitor economy and highlights the significant impact of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire in its role as the region’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), with its value-over-volume approach driving sustainable, long-term economic growth across the region.

Highlights from the 2024 figures include:

  • Overnight stays have seen the most significant growth, up 14% on 2023 (approximately 11% in real terms), demonstrating increased demand for longer, higher-value visits.
  • Serviced accommodation has led the way, with a remarkable 7% increase year-on-year (26% in real terms), highlighting strong performance for the destination’s hotels, B&Bs and inns.
  • Visitor days remain stable and consistent with 2023 levels, supporting the region’s strategy of prioritising value over sheer visitor volume.
  • Employment supported directly and indirectly by tourism has reached 33,000, an increase of 6%, underlining the sector’s vital role in local job creation.
  • Data includes insights from short-term lets (including Airbnb), providing a comprehensive and accurate picture of the visitor economy.
  • Visitor satisfactions also high, with recent surveys reporting a 6/10 satisfaction score based on feedback from those who have visited the Peak District in the past 6 months.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “These outstanding figures are a testament to the strength and appeal of the Peak District and Derbyshire as a world-class visitor destination. We are particularly proud of the growth in overnight stays and serviced accommodation, which shows that our strategy to focus on value over volume is delivering tangible economic benefits.

“These impressive results clearly demonstrate the impact of the work led by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire as the region’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), with a strong focus on attracting high-value visitors and championing sustainable tourism to build a more resilient, year-round visitor economy. We look forward to building on this success with continued collaboration across the region.”

Sir Richard FitzHerbert, Chair of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: ‘These record-breaking figures are fantastic news for the Peak District and Derbyshire and a clear sign of the vital importance of our visitor economy. Tourism is not only bringing billions into the local economy, but it is also supporting thousands of jobs and communities across the region. As Chair, I am immensely proud of the collaborative efforts that have made this possible, from our brilliant businesses to our dedicated partners. Together, we are ensuring that tourism continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, while celebrating and protecting the landscapes, heritage and hospitality that make the destination truly unique.’

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “Visitor economy is hugely important for the region, because it matters everywhere: to our cities, our market towns, and our rural areas.

“As these figures show, visitor economy plays a vital role in shaping the East Midlands’ identity and gives a major boost to our local economy, while also helping to protect our rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

“This growth reminds us of what we already know – the Peak District, Derbyshire, and indeed, the whole East Midlands are incredible places to live, work, and visit.”

The latest tourism figures align with the wider priorities of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), which recognises tourism as a key economic driver in the region’s future growth.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Work academy leads to jobs for local people

Six local people have successfully been offered roles at the new Aldi store in Brimington, and 28 people received two new qualifications each, thanks to them attending a sector-based work academy.

Thanks to a local labour clause, Chesterfield Borough Council has worked closely with Job Centre Plus, Chesterfield College and Aldi to ensure local people have the opportunity to receive work-based training, and in six cases, a new job at the new Aldi store.

28 individuals, some of whom were previously unemployed, were selected to attend the sector-based work academy, and following the seven-day course, each received two new qualifications to aid their learning and future employment.

The qualifications received were an NCFE Level 1 Award in Work Related Studies for the Customer Service Sector and a Level 1 Award in Managing Your Money.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “As a major planning application, the site has been subject to a local labour clause which seeks to lever skills and employment opportunities arising from development for local people.

“We want to do all we can to support people into the workplace, so I am delighted that everyone who attended the sector-based work academy received new qualifications, as well as a number of them also securing new jobs at the retail store too.”

The new Aldi development on Ringwood Road in Brimington, is due to open its doors on 30 October and will create 40 to 50 new employment opportunities as a result of the new store.

Scott Smith, area manager for Aldi, said: “Working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College and DWP through the Sector Based Work Academy programme has been invaluable in helping us recruit for our new Aldi Brimington store. Their support has enabled us to connect with local talent and provide real opportunities for people to start rewarding careers with Aldi”.

If you are currently looking for work, Job Centre Plus will be holding a recruitment event on 24 September from 10am to 12pm at Chesterfield Job Centre. Anyone who would like to attend, should go along to their local Job Centre and register their interest.

Later in the year, Chesterfield Borough Council is also hosting a Job Fair at the Town Hall on Tuesday 21 October from 1pm to 4pm. A range of local employers will be in attendance, it is a drop-in event, and everyone is welcome to come along.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield’s manufacturing festival inspires next generation of engineers and innovators

Chesterfield recognises its manufacturers and engineers over the next month through the return of an annual celebratory campaign. Taking place from 25 September until the end of October, the Made in Chesterfield festival aims to change perceptions of the manufacturing industry by connecting Chesterfield’s students with real-world experiences in local advanced manufacturing and engineering businesses.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership in association with Chesterfield College, the initiative supports businesses in showcasing the sector and creating a pipeline of talent while giving students access to cutting-edge technologies, from precision engineering to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Board Member at Destination Chesterfield, said: “Modern manufacturing is full of innovation and opportunity, right here in Chesterfield. But do our young people know about the businesses and careers open to them locally? Perhaps only if they have parents working in the sector. Made in Chesterfield helps our young people see what’s possible. It also shows employers like us at MSE the future talent being nurtured right here.”

To celebrate National Manufacturing Day, the 2025 festival introduces the Innovation Challenge, where students team up with local manufacturers to solve real-world problems.  They’ll visit workplaces, collaborate on ideas, and present their solutions at a showcase event at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Ltd, said: “The Innovation Challenge is an exciting way to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. It connects the classroom to real careers and gives young people a genuine opportunity to develop ideas and confidence.”

The festival showcases the links between the education sector and business, aiming to inspire a pipeline of future talent to consider a career in manufacturing.

Claire Godfrey, Deputy Principal at Chesterfield College Group, the headline sponsor of the festival, added: “Our new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre will equip students with the latest industry skills, including green technologies and digital innovation. Supporting the Made in Chesterfield Festival allows us to showcase these skills and facilities to both young people and employers as we continually help to supply a future-ready workforce locally. This fantastic festival engages students at an earlier age, providing a real-world insight and enthusiasm about the fantastic career paths that are available in and around Chesterfield, so we’re delighted to be headline sponsor once again.”

Other highlights in the festival include the Made in Chesterfield Business Event on the 8th October at Chesterfield College.  Businesses, head teachers and careers leads will have the opportunity to network and discover more about the College’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre.

Businesses taking part in this year’s festival include United Cast Bar Ltd, MSE Hiller, Weightron Bilanciai, Penny Engineering, Fast Signs, Superior Wellness, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd, Fast Signs and CBE+

Also supporting this year’s festival are Chesterfield Borough Council, the EMCCA Career Hub, Workwise, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and North East Derbyshire District Council.

For more information, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made-in-chesterfield/

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

Chesterfield artist’s mural brings colourful connections to life

Chesterfield artist Elle Koziupa has created a new 14-metre-high mural called ‘The Embrace’, in Leeds.

“I want to bring colour to the world,” is the belief inspiring the striking work of local mural artist, Elle.

22-year-old, Elle has been creating memorable murals for the past four years as part of the artist community at Europe’s leading producer of hand-painted murals, Global Street Art.

With so much content evolving from the digital world, Elle feels passionate about how landmark murals can touch people and deliver broad appeal. “When people first see a large mural artwork, I hope they appreciate it has an artist who stands behind it and that it comes from the vision and creativity of a human being. This is important in a world increasingly dominated by the online space,” she says.

‘The Embrace’ – produced for CrossCountry – draws inspiration from the way transport helps connect people to places and memories in an inclusive way.

Elle continues: “I wanted to ensure the mural has an emotional and visual impact on those who see it. The central idea features a captivating moment with train travel at its heart. The scene of the train platform with two people greeting each other as they are about to embark on an amazing journey or sharing a joyful reunited moment, is the foundation for many possibilities as people meet and connect.”

As part of the Global Street Art team, Elle intends to continue to create murals that touch communities and are a joy to see.  She wants to stretch her capabilities and work on ever larger artworks.  “I am inspired to see how far we can take the mural concept, and in the future, I want to embark on larger-scale mural projects that make a statement.  I am keen to continue my development as an artist and am excited about where we can take mural creation next,” she concludes.

Chesterfield is full of hidden gems when it comes to art and culture, some of which you may have never noticed before.
Explore the culture of Chesterfield on foot and discover the unique artworks around the town with our Chesterfield Art Trail walking routes.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home