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Chesterfield Market Place transformation welcomes shoppers

Chesterfield Market traders are celebrating the completion of major regeneration work to revitalise the main square.

The transformation has delivered a vibrant and welcoming space, featuring new feature paving, restored historic cobbles, bespoke market stalls with traditional coverings, upgraded facilities, and stylish street furniture. These improvements create an inviting environment where visitors can shop, relax, and enjoy the heart of Chesterfield.

The redesigned layout offers wider, more open avenues for shoppers to explore, along with a new central flexible space designed to host a variety of events throughout the year.

It is the first major area to be completed as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project.

The first full day of trading in Market Place took place today. (Thursday 18 September.)

People browsing market stalls at Chesterfield Market

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is the start of a new chapter for our town centre, with the historic market at its heart. The improvements we’ve made will ensure we can attract great traders and more customers to Chesterfield for many years to come.

“We have one of the finest and oldest markets in the country and some of the most reasonable stall prices too. This coupled with a range of town centre events and activities will help draw to crowds in.

“There is still more work to be done across the town centre and the next phase of works in New Square will see that area completely transformed to create a flexible events space that can support markets on busy days like during our flea market but can also be used to support community events, festivals and much more.”

Wendy Bailey, who sells Antiques on Chesterfield’s Thursday Flea Market, said: “The new stalls are fantastic, they provide a great space which we can trade from in all weathers, are built to a really high standard and we’ve had lots of great compliments from customers about them. With the upgrades across the square the Market is looking the best it has for many years, and it creates a really welcoming environment for both traders and customers.”

People exploring Chesterfields' Thursday Flea Market

The works have been carried out on behalf of the council by Thomas Bow.

John Allen, Construction Director at Thomas Bow, said: “We are delighted to have completed phase two of this important project for Chesterfield. It has been a privilege to work collaboratively alongside the council and local traders to help create a space that the whole community can be proud of whilst maintaining access to the key area of the town. In addition to our work in the market place we have made a positive impact in the local communities through our social value programme alongside this scheme. We look forward to continuing this successful project into phase three.”

The next major phase of the market squares transformation is now underway, with contractor working on the lower half of New Square behind the Market Hall. All businesses and properties based on New Square will be accessible throughout the works.

This will see New Square transformed into a flexible events space that can support traditional markets on busy trading days but also host community events, festivals and much more.

Work in New Square is set to fully completed in Spring 2026.

View 01 - New Square (Ground) copy

Regeneration work is also ongoing in Rykneld Square where a greener space is being created that will provide views of the iconic Crooked Spire.

A future phase of the town centre regeneration project will focus on the transformation of Corporation Street to provide an enhanced welcome to the town centre for visitors and complement the ongoing refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, home to the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum. This work is expected to be completed in time for the building reopening in 2026.

The project is funded through an almost £20 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. With the funding split between town centre regeneration works and the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall.

View 04 - Corporation Street stephenson memorial hall 1746

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

Find out more about upcoming markets and events in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Half term, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Visiting

East Midlands unveils plan to put people at the heart of growth

A game-changing inclusive growth plan to transform the lives and livelihoods of people across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire has been unveiled.

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward and the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) have launched the Inclusive Growth Commission report, the first of its kind in the UK.

The publication of the Commission’s final, ground-breaking recommendations is a major moment for the East Midlands. It is a chance for partners to work together to improve lives and jobs across one of the UK’s largest regions and to set an example others can follow.

The final report brings together new ideas for skills, health, housing and transport. It is designed to help people across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire access good jobs, better opportunities, and develop stronger communities.

The report shows there’s a big chance for the East Midlands to grow. If the region attracts more investment, it could bring in £200 billion by 2035. Supporting the 18 most promising new industrial sites could help 30,000 low-paid workers earn around £6,700 more each year. Helping people build stronger networks and connections could add £1.4 billion in extra income for the poorest households over the next ten years. And if worker health problems are reduced, it could save up to £10 billion every year.

This is a plan built with and for the people of the East Midlands. It is also the first regional model of its kind in the UK – practical, scalable, and designed to influence national debates on growth, levelling up, and the future economy, leading to:

  • A healthier, better-paid, more skilled workforce
  • Better access to affordable housing and transport
  • Stronger, more connected communities.
  • A distinctive East Midlands identity that attracts talent and investment.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands is a region of huge pride and ambition. We’ve always been a place that builds, creates and leads, from our world-class manufacturers to our thriving new industries in green energy, life sciences and the creative economy. However, too often the opportunities our people deserve aren’t spread fairly. That’s why I asked the Inclusive Growth Commission to look hard at the barriers and the solutions.

“The Commission’s final report makes clear the challenge is not aspiration as we have that in abundance, but the pathways that turn ambition into achievement. Too many young people face broken steps on the journey to a secure job, a decent home or affordable transport.”

At the heart of the plan is the UK’s first “Opportunity Escalator”, setting out clear pathways for people to access opportunities and progress in work and life.

  • Get on: It is about removing barriers that hold people back: improving transport links within and beyond the region, ensuring affordable homes are available where the jobs are, and creating healthy neighbourhoods where care, community and opportunity come together.
  • Get up: This is about matching local skills with better paying jobs and showing clear next steps, the Escalator helps authorities, education establishments, employers and local people take action to support fair and inclusive growth. It helps people to “get up” the Escalator.

To make the Opportunity Escalator work, the Commission has set out flagship priorities to ensure every community benefits. These include:

  • Providing every young person access to career guidance, work experience, and wellbeing support — with a clear path into work, training, or further education.
  • Boost school performance and making sure adults can retrain for jobs that are needed locally like green energy and digital skills.
  • Tackle poor health as a barrier for people working, by integrating healthcare and employment services, and promote fair, flexible workplaces through a Good Employers Charter.
  • Strengthen community ties by supporting local enterprises and delivering services through trusted venues like schools, libraries, and community hubs.
  • Attract investment into the region to boost the economy.

The Commission is also calling for the UK’s first regional plan to strengthen social connections as well as economic ones, including more support for grassroots leaders and community groups, and investment which delivers not just profit, but greener, fairer, healthier places across the East Midlands.

Mayor Claire added: “The Commission’s concept of an ‘opportunity escalator’ captures perfectly what we must build: a fair system of visible, achievable steps that works for everyone, wherever they start.

“This is a call to action for all of us – government, business, communities – to invest in our people and places. As Mayor, I am determined to lead that change. Together we must remove the barriers that hold people back, and make sure the East Midlands is a region where every young person has the chance not just to dream, but to thrive.”

The East Midlands Inclusive Growth Commission was set up in November 2024 by East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) and council leaders across the region, who appointed the RSA to run the high-profile commission.

Andy Haldane, the Chair of the Commission, said: “When the Mayor asked the RSA to lead this Commission, the ambition was to end a cycle of underinvestment in the East Midlands and redesign growth from the ground up.

“By developing an ambitious new engine for growth, the Opportunity Escalator, and through the Commission’s recommendations, we’re equipping not just the region, but the whole country with a blueprint for people-centred inclusive growth.”

Tom Stratton, Chief of Staff at the RSA, said:  “This Commission set out to shape a new approach to economic growth in the East Midlands, one that unlocks opportunity for everyone, wherever they live and whatever their circumstances. The Opportunity Escalator and recommendations published today do exactly that.”

“EMCCA now has the tools to align the Government’s top-down Industrial Strategy with a bottom-up, East Midlands-specific model of growth- starting with people’s existing skills and setting out the steps needed to move into better paid, higher-skilled jobs.

“As devolution gathers pace and demand for fresh growth models grows, we hope this report marks the start of an ongoing conversation.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

CRIT! brings Comic-Con energy to Chesterfield with grand opening and mini-con event

Chesterfield’s town centre is about to get a major pop culture upgrade as independent retailer Critical Hit rebrands to CRIT! and opens the doors to its new flagship store on Saturday 20th September. The launch event promises a full Comic-Con experience, complete with celebrity guests, giveaways, and immersive displays.

Located at 26 Burlington Street (formerly GAME), CRIT! is the brainchild of local entrepreneurs Nathan and John, who have built a loyal following since opening their original store on Knifesmithgate in May 2024. The new space is bigger, bolder, and packed with collectibles, gaming merchandise, anime, horror figures, and exclusive pop culture products.

To mark the occasion, CRIT! is hosting a Grand (Re)Opening and Mini-Con, featuring a special appearance by Hollywood actor Tommy Flanagan, known for roles in Sons of Anarchy, Peaky Blinders, Gladiator, and Guardians of the Galaxy 2. Fans will have the chance to meet Tommy for signings and photos throughout the day.

The event kicks off at 9am and includes a cosplay competition with prizes for both adults and children, judged by a professional photographer. One lucky visitor will win a Nintendo Switch 2, while runners-up will share £500 in store credit.

“We’ve poured our hearts and souls into this new space,” said Nathan Russell, co-owner of CRIT!. “The support from Chesterfield and surrounding areas has been incredible. CRIT! is more than a shop, it’s a place where fans can connect, celebrate their passions, and experience something truly special.”

Highlights of the new store include a 5-metre Pokewall, an expanded Funko Pop! wall, Loungefly bags, Gundam kits, Studio Ghibli merchandise, horror collectibles, Hot Toys, blind boxes, and more. The team’s vision is to bring the Comic-Con experience to Chesterfield, making it a destination for fans across the region.

This is the latest in a range of investments announced in Chesterfield town centre, these include:

Discover more about shopping in Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Breathe Pilates launches Chesterfield’s first LED x Hot studio

Breathe Pilates has officially opened on Chatsworth Road, bringing the UK’s first LED x Hot Pilates studio to Chesterfield.

Located at 131 Chatsworth Road, Breathe Pilates introduces a fresh concept to the town’s thriving fitness scene.

The brand new studio combines reformer Pilates with hot air and LED light therapy, creating a wellness experience unlike anything else in the UK.  This innovative approach offers a wide range of benefits, including improved strength, flexibility, recovery, and overall well-being.

“I am passionate about health and wellbeing and have enjoyed reformer Pilates for many years,” said Grace Jones, co-founder of Breathe Pilates”. I believe there is an opportunity to share my passion and raise awareness of reformer Pilates in Chesterfield for both men and women of all abilities and age groups.”

She added, “We wanted to create a welcoming space where people can move, feel stronger, and take time for themselves. Pilates has such a powerful way of building both the mind and the body, and we wanted to share that with our community.”

Breathe Pilates aims to collaborate with numerous local businesses to enhance the offerings for people in Chesterfield. Through run clubs, coffee mornings, and wellness workshops, they aim to provide a wide range of options to suit everyone’s interests and promote physical wellbeing for our community.

Explaining why Chesterfield was the perfect fit, Grace said: “We chose Chatsworth Road as it’s a vibrant community full of independent shops and studios as well as bars and cafes, and we thought Breathe would be a perfect addition.”

Breathe Pilates is open seven days a week, offering morning, evening, and select weekend classes.

Visitors can book through the Breathe Pilates UK app, the studio’s website at www.breathepilateschesterfield.co.uk, or by contacting the team at info@breathepilateschesterfield.co.uk.

Breathe Pilates shop front

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

Raw4All brings natural pet nutrition to Brimington

An independent business in Brimington is helping Chesterfield’s pet owners give their animals the healthiest start in life. Raw4All, a family-run pet food shop, has reopened its doors to offer high-quality raw and natural pet food at prices that make healthy diets accessible to all.

Founded with a clear mission to support pet wellbeing, Raw4All specialises in raw food for dogs, cats, ferrets, birds of prey and exotic pets. The team is passionate about educating owners on the benefits of raw feeding, which many report leads to improved behaviour, better dental hygiene and fewer skin conditions.

“Raw4All was started to provide pet owners the option of a natural diet at price points that made it accessible to everyone,” said Owner, Paul Tingle. “As a family-run business, it’s important to us to not only offer great products, but also help owners understand how to make the best choices for their pets.”

In addition to raw food, the shop stocks a range of dried treats and accessories, and has plans to build a local network of pet industry professionals to support other businesses and help customers discover complementary services.

Chesterfield was a natural choice for the business, thanks to its friendly community, strong pet ownership and proximity to the Peak District, a haven for dog walkers and nature lovers. The town’s supportive environment for small businesses also played a key role in the decision to launch here.

“Chesterfield is well situated for small businesses to get a foothold and find their purpose,” Paul added.

The business also plans to expand its delivery service to reach customers who can’t visit the shop in person, with long-term ambitions to open more stores based on the successful Brimington model.

To celebrate its relaunch, Raw4All is hosting an Open Day on Saturday, 13th September from 10 am to 3 pm, inviting pet owners to explore the shop, ask questions about pet nutrition, and meet the team.

Raw4All is the latest independent business that has made our high streets its home or expanded to larger premises, these include:

If you are interested in opening a business in Chesterfield.  Discover more about available commercial property at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure

Upscaling Chesterfield firms can get funding and support from new programme

Businesses in Chesterfield looking to grow are invited to join a new programme of events and workshops made up of tailored academic and business support, with funding also available.

The new High Growth Academy aims to equip scaling businesses with the skills, knowledge and resources they need to innovate and grow sustainably. The Academy is delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of EMCCA (the East Midlands Combined County Authority) and in partnership with the University of Derby, University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University.

The Academy is part of the wider High Growth Accelerator project that has received £450, 352 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). It is open to businesses that can demonstrate 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over the past three consecutive years.

High Growth Academy support includes:

  • A series of workshops reflecting the needs of businesses at different stages of their growth journeys: ‘Growth Drivers’ for early-stage businesses with sessions on subjects such as sales, leadership and emerging markets; and ‘Growth Builders’ for senior leaders in more established businesses, with sessions on subjects such as governance, structure and performance management.
  • Monthly High Growth forums enabling businesses to access support, hear from industry experts and share insight with peers. The first forum, taking place on 6th November, “Big Business, Small Feel: Strategy, Systems, and the Human Touch” will be led by Professor Marvin Cooke OBE, former Executive Vice President for Manufacturing at Toyota Motor Europe. It will explore how organisations can maintain a personalised, human-centred approach while scaling operations through strategic planning and robust systems

Additional support to help businesses with their growth journeys is being offered as part of the wider High Growth Accelerator project:

  • One-to-one business support from a High Growth Adviser including advice, mentoring and diagnostic support on areas of relevance to the business
  • Innovation Vouchers of up to £5,000 to support businesses in accessing specialist support from university innovation delivery centres including on food innovation, chemistry innovation, aerospace technology, precision manufacturing, design matters, and virtual and immersive production
  • Student placement support of up to £2,000 to cover the salary cost of an intern for a minimum 8-week period to work on a defined project including, for example, developing new products, bringing new products to market or increasing sustainability
  • Training bursaries of up to £2,000 to attend one of the Chamber’s highly regarded Commercial Training courses, including its Director and Manager Development Programmes

East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said: “Growing at pace is only possible if the business has the right products, processes and people in place. Together with our partners at the University of Derby, University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, East Midlands Chamber has curated a programme of expert High Growth Academy support through its High Growth Accelerator project.

“Our aim is to equip businesses with the skills and knowledge they need to rise to the challenges of today’s business environment, not least tackling recruitment, skills, cashflow and funding concerns. Whether a business is seeking to drive innovation, improve how it manages its finances, adapt its structures or coach its leaders and emerging leaders in high performance, we have the expertise and resources to turn ideas into real action.”

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “Businesses across the East Midlands have boundless potential for growth, but those same businesses tell me every day just how few hours in the day there are to think and plan for this. The High Growth Academy makes that space, drawing on the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s UKSPF funding but also expertise from business and academia. So, whether your business is starting or scaling, this could be the programme for you.”

Businesses can register by completing the Registration Form and a High Growth adviser will respond.

High Growth Academy workshops can be booked here.

The Chamber’s schedule of Commercial Training courses, for which eligible businesses can apply for a £2,000 subsidy to attend, can be accessed on the East Midlands Chamber site.

If you would like more information on business support available to businesses in Chesterfield visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Thousands celebrate creativity and community at Tapton Lock Festival 2025

Chesterfield’s Tapton Lock Festival returned bigger and better than ever on 6–7 September 2025, drawing thousands of visitors to the Chesterfield Canal for a vibrant weekend of outdoor adventure, creative exploration and community spirit.

Organised by local arts charity Junction Arts, this year’s festival marked its largest edition to date, thanks to a new partnership with Arts Derbyshire and their touring programme, Festivity. The expanded line-up offered a diverse programme from live music and storytelling to hands-on workshops and outdoor activities, all celebrating the natural beauty of Tapton Lock and the region’s rich creative talent.

Visitors enjoyed free canal boat rides, “have-a-go” canoeing and climbing wall sessions, circus skills workshops, and a wide range of art activities, including acrylic pouring and printmaking.

As part of Festivity, the festival showcased:

  • Live performances from Derbyshire singer-songwriters Michael Vickers and Sarah Hinds
  • A digital gallery featuring eleven visual artists from across the county
  • A spoken word programme curated by the Derby Poetry Festival, highlighting diverse regional voices

Families were captivated by interactive storytelling sessions from Adverse Camber, while Arts Derbyshire hosted drop-in nature-inspired workshops. On Saturday, printmaker Nicki Dennett led creative print sessions, followed by artist Paola DeGio on Sunday, who introduced visitors to marbling techniques.

A standout feature was Junction Arts’ collaboration with VERBA – the Ukrainian Social Group of Chesterfield, who brought an eco-conscious art trail to the festival. Eco-Path – A Living Journey invited families to explore six interactive stations themed around sustainability, including climate awareness, recycling, biodiversity, textile waste and microplastics. Participants collected stamps in their Eco Passport while engaging in activities such as:

  • Making instruments from recycled materials
  • Creating seed bombs
  • Junk modelling and textile art

Festival favourites returned too, with the Vintage Fairground and Bubbleologist delighting younger visitors.

“It has been an amazing weekend where friends and families have come together to appreciate this beautiful location,” said Jane Wells, Project Manager at Junction Arts. “Whether it’s listening to live music, getting active or creating your own masterpiece, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Launched in 2013, the Tapton Lock Festival is a free, inclusive celebration designed to promote health, wellbeing and creativity. For over a decade, it has offered opportunities for people to try new skills, connect with nature and take part in cultural experiences right in the heart of Chesterfield.

Discover what’s on in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions driving growth, recognition, and safety

Chesterfield Champions are marking achievements in branding, national recognition, and skills development.

Addooco launches its next phase with a new brand

Addooco, specialists in private cloud, connectivity, and managed IT solutions, has unveiled a new brand identity. They developed the rebrand in collaboration with fellow Chesterfield Champion, Defeye Creative.

The rebrand represents a step in Addooco’s growth from a regional IT partner to a nationally recognised provider of infrastructure and digital transformation services. Addooco has reorganised its services into six categories: Complete, Grid, Clear Skies, Works, Secure, and Tech Team. A redesigned website is now live at Addooco — Make IT Happen

The project introduced messaging such as “Make It Happen” and “Engineers of Change” to reflect Addooco’s practical approach to IT solutions.

“This wasn’t just a design refresh; it’s a statement of who we’ve become,” said Richard Walters, CEO at Addooco. “We’ve grown with our clients and evolved with the market, and now we have a brand that reflects our ambition without losing our approachability.”

Defeye’s Director, Matt Pritchard, added: “Helping Addooco evolve visually and strategically was a privilege. We’ve worked with them for years and saw this as a chance to tell a bigger story, one of growth, ambition, and local excellence.”

Both Addooco and Defeye are proud members of Destination Chesterfield’s Chesterfield Champions network. Their collaboration highlights how local businesses can raise regional and national profiles.

ADDOOCO logo

 

East Midlands Chamber shortlisted for National Chamber of the Year

The British Chambers of Commerce has shortlisted East Midlands Chamber as a finalist for the “Chamber of the Year” award 2025. This is the highest recognition available to accredited chambers across the UK.

The Chamber, which supports businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire, has delivered a wide-ranging programme in recent years. This includes the £4.6m UKSPF-funded Accelerator project, which since 2023 has:

  • Supported more than 13,600 firms
  • Secured £9.7m in funding, grants, and loans
  • Helped safeguard or create 1,101 jobs
  • Produced decarbonisation plans for 1,093 businesses
  • Assisted 2,607 companies in improving productivity
  • Supported 196 exporters and 143 start-ups
  • Helped 400 SMEs adopt new technologies

“UK Chamber of the Year is the highest level of recognition a chamber of commerce in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland can get, so to be announced as a finalist is tremendous,” said Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber.

“Being shortlisted is a testament to the sheer dedication and hard work of the East Midlands Chamber team, underlining their commitment to championing the business community every day and leading growth across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire.”

The British Chambers of Commerce will announce the winner in October.

Scott Knowles - East Midlands Chamber

DBCP strengthens building safety with new inspector

DBCP is the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. It has appointed Registered Building Inspector Luke Merrey to its team.

Luke’s background in property sales and lettings adds sector-wide insight. He holds 2A Registered Status with the Building Safety Competence Foundation, and has a Distinction in the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying. He is close to completing his Level 5 Diploma and is working towards 2F status.

His responsibilities will include plan checking, site inspections, advising applicants, and maintaining detailed records to ensure developments comply with building regulations.

“I’m thrilled to start my new role and continue my journey in Building Control. I wish I’d found out about Building Control when I was at school,” said Luke. “I am genuinely passionate about all areas of the sector. Seeing my knowledge grow through the LABC Academy Scheme has been amazing, and I am delighted to bring my learning and experience to architects, builders, and property owners throughout High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, added: “We are delighted to have Luke on board. He has a deep understanding of the sector from both an inspector and a property manager perspective.”

Luke’s appointment highlights DBCP’s ongoing investment in qualified professionals. The industry is facing a national skills shortage following stricter regulations being introduced after the Grenfell tragedy.

Luke Merrey - DBCP smiling

For more information on how to become one of our Chesterfield Champions click here.

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

Highlight Crafts joins Hobbycraft TV

Highlight Crafts has announced its inclusion in the launch of Hobbycraft TV, a brand-new platform dedicated to daily, demonstration-led content from expert crafters across the UK. The channel officially launched on Thursday 4th September, with Highlight Crafts making its debut at 10:30am.

As a Derbyshire-based business rooted in creativity and community, Highlight Crafts is thrilled to be part of this exciting new chapter in the crafting industry. Hobbycraft TV brings together leading brands and makers to deliver inspiring, accessible content to crafters of all levels and Highlight Crafts is at the heart of it.

“At Highlight Crafts, community is at the heart of everything we do it’s what inspires us, drives us, and connects us,” said Diane Peternel, Sales and Marketing Director at Highlight Crafts. “We are thrilled to be part of a channel that also puts community first, creating a space where inspiration and creativity can be shared every single day.”

The partnership will see Highlight Crafts deliver regular shows on Hobbycraft TV, showcasing innovative products, expert techniques, and creative projects designed to spark imagination and build confidence. The team will continue to run their popular LiveShopping Shows as usual, ensuring their loyal audience can still enjoy the same trusted content alongside this exciting new venture.

Steven Hubbard, Board Advisor for Hobbycraft, added: “It’s such an exciting time to be in the crafting industry. Hobbycraft TV enhances our customer experience and builds our community with an array of experts and brands bringing daily innovation to all our makers. We are extremely excited to be partnering with Stephanie Weightman and all of her inspirational team at Highlight Crafts.”

You can watch Hobbycraft TV on:

Enjoy Highlight Crafts LiveShopping shows at:

Highlight Crafts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Tapton Lock Visitor Centre reopened by rock legend

Dave Berry has officially reopened Tapton Lock Visitor Centre at the Tapton Lock Festival, organised by Junction Arts.

Chesterfield Canal Trust has stepped in to reopen the centre after its closure in May and has taken out an initial nine-month licence to run the centre, owned by Derbyshire County Council.   The centre is now open daily.

Jill Hardy, who runs the Visitor Centre for the Trust, said: “We are very grateful to Dave for coming to officially open Tapton Lock Visitor Centre.   I’m delighted to announce that we will now be open every day, except Christmas Day. Please come to visit us, find out more about the canal and try some of our lovely coffee!”

Dave Berry is famous for his many classic hits from the 1960s, like The Crying Game. He lives locally, in Dronfield, and first made contact with the Chesterfield Canal Trust many years ago after taking his granddaughter on a Santa Special cruise. He was impressed by the work of the volunteers and decided to help.

He is the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s Restoration Ambassador. He once cycled the full length of the canal, raising several hundred pounds in sponsorship for the Trust. He has spoken at a Supporters’ Group meeting and is often to be found walking or cycling along the canal.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust is restoring the canal at Staveley thanks to funding from the Staveley Town Deal.

In the next few months, a new lock, a pumping system and several hundred metres of canal will be built. In addition, nearly two miles of towpath will be restored all the way to Renishaw.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Travelodge invests in Chesterfield as part of national expansion strategy

Travelodge has announced the acquisition of a Chesterfield hotel, reinforcing its commitment to growth and rebranding across the UK.

The hotel, formerly operated under the Ibis brand, is one of four newly acquired sites by Travelodge, alongside locations in Preston, Bradford Shipley and Cardiff. The move is part of the company’s wider UK strategy to convert existing hotels into Travelodge-branded properties, bringing the total number of rebranded acquisitions this year to 16.

Located within walking distance of Chesterfield town centre and railway station, the 86-room hotel offers convenient access to local attractions including the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield Museum, and the nearby Peak District. It is also just a short drive from Chatsworth House, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers.

The hotel will undergo a full refurbishment later this year as part of Travelodge’s multi-million pound upgrade programme. The refit will introduce the brand’s latest design standards, including a contemporary reception area, next-generation rooms, and enhanced interiors focused on comfort and functionality.

“These acquisitions are another strong addition to our UK portfolio and demonstrate the continued momentum behind our rebrand-led growth strategy,” said Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge. “We’re seeing increasing opportunities to convert well-located, existing hotels into Travelodges.

Travelodge’s investment reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s visitor economy and its strategic location as a base to visit the Peak District. The company has identified over 300 further locations across the UK for future expansion, with Chesterfield’s inclusion underscoring its appeal to national operators.

The rebrand is expected to enhance the town’s accommodation offering, supporting the town’s wider ambitions to grow tourism and business travel.

This investment showcases confidence in Chesterfield town centre, alongside other recent investments for residential, commercial and retail activity, including:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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