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Funding available to support more ‘warm and welcoming spaces’ across Chesterfield

Community groups across Chesterfield are being invited to apply for funding to support new or existing ‘warm and welcoming spaces’ that will help residents this winter.

Grants of up to £750 are available to support local charities, voluntary organisations, community groups or community venues to set up new warm hubs or contribute towards the costs of existing spaces.

The Warm and Welcoming Spaces are designed to provide support for local people through the winter months – offering a welcoming place to socialise whilst enjoying a hot drink and joining in with activities.

A number of community spaces are already up and running in the borough, delivered by a range of partners and organisations – and the Chesterfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, which receives its funding from Public Health at Derbyshire County Council, has once again agreed to provide further financial support ahead of this winter.

The additional funding will be used to set up new locations across Chesterfield and allow existing spaces to continue operating.

Councillor Judy Staton, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for governance, said:

“We’re lucky to have a strong and supportive community network in Chesterfield that will once again be working together this winter to ensure all our communities are supported.

“Thanks to funding from the Chesterfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, we are once again able to reach out to local charities, community groups and community venues and invite them to apply for funding that will either help with the cost of existing groups, or to set up a new space in the borough.

“These spaces are so valuable in our communities as they also create new ways for people to connect with one another, and access support and advice.”

Grants are available to eligible voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations and community-led groups in Chesterfield borough, for the creation or improvement of warm and welcoming spaces for local communities. Grants could be spent on a variety of project costs including:

  • Additional energy costs
  • Furniture and improvement to facilities
  • Additional staffing costs to cover extended hours
  • Additional cleaning costs to ensure compliance with health protection guidance
  • Activities and refreshments
  • Additional activity costs

The deadline for applications is Friday 30th, October, 2026.

The grant is being co-ordinated locally by Chesterfield Borough Council.

Derbyshire County Council’s Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grant, administered by Derbyshire Voluntary Action, is also running alongside this programme. Organisations are welcome to apply to both funding programmes where appropriate. The teams will work together to coordinate applications and ensure there is no duplication of funding for the same activities or costs.

For more information on eligibility criteria or to request an application form please contact Wendy Blunt at Chesterfield Borough Council on wendy.blunt@chesterfield.gov.uk or call 01246 959657, or Helen Marples at Derbyshire County Council on helen.marples@derbyshire.gov.uk.

Find more funding and grant opportunities available across Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/funding-and-grants/

Posted in Business, Home, Stay

Chesterfield businesses shortlisted for Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards 2027

Two Chesterfield Champions have been shortlisted for the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards 2027, recognising local businesses helping to make our region a leading visitor destination.

Peak Edge Hotel, The Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge and Matlock Farm Park are among the Chesterfield Champions named on the shortlist, alongside other businesses from across Chesterfield and Derbyshire.

Havendale, based in Chesterfield, has also been shortlisted for New Tourism Business of the Year, joining a wider group of finalists recognised across 14 categories.

The awards celebrate excellence across accommodation, attractions, food and drink and visitor experiences, as well as the people whose work helps create memorable experiences for visitors.

Delivered by Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby, the VisitEngland-accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnership, the awards recognise excellence, innovation, sustainability and outstanding customer experiences across Derbyshire’s £3.58 billion visitor economy.

The awards form part of the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards programme, bringing together the established tourism awards programmes for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire under a shared regional banner and showcasing the breadth of the region’s visitor offer.

Finalists will progress to the final round of independent judging, which includes mystery visits to help determine the winners.

The winners will be announced at the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards ceremony on Wednesday, 10th March 2027 at Crowne Plaza Nottingham, bringing together finalists from Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Gold winners in eligible categories will also have the opportunity to represent the East Midlands at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, competing for some of the highest accolades in English tourism.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said:

“We’re delighted to reveal the shortlist for the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire and to celebrate the exceptional businesses, experiences and individuals who continue to make Derbyshire such a fantastic place to visit.

“The response to this year’s awards demonstrates the strength and ambition of our visitor economy. From accommodation providers and attractions to food and drink businesses and unique visitor experiences, our finalists represent the quality, innovation and commitment that can be found right across Derbyshire.

“The Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards provide an exciting opportunity to build on the success of our previous destination awards while giving Derbyshire businesses an even stronger regional platform. We look forward to celebrating all our finalists and recognising their achievements at the awards ceremony next year.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

“These awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the people, businesses and organisations that make the East Midlands such a special place to visit. From our vibrant cities and market towns to our stunning countryside and world-class attractions our visitor economy plays a vital role in supporting jobs, businesses and local communities across the region.

“I am proud of the passion, creativity and dedication shown by those working in tourism and hospitality, and these awards shine a spotlight on their achievements. The East Midlands has so much to offer, and by recognising the very best of our visitor economy, we can continue to showcase our region to more visitors and help put the East Midlands firmly on the map.

Congratulations to all those shortlisted and nominated.”

2027 Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire: The 2027 Shortlist:

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

Carsington Water, Ashbourne

Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield

Rosliston Forestry Centre & Environmental Education Project, Swadlincote

B&B and Guest House of the Year

The Ashford Arms, Ashford-in-the-Water

Underleigh House B&B, Hope Valley

The George Hathersage

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

Hartington Hills, near Buxton

3Trees Glamping, Wirksworth

Darwin Forest, Matlock

Experience of the Year

Thornbridge Estate, Ashford-in-the-Water

Pub Tours Ltd

Buxton Crescent – Champneys, Buxton

Hotel of the Year

The Peacock at Rowsley

The Cavendish at Baslow

Wildhive Callow Hall, Ashbourne

New Tourism Business of the Year

The Outside-Inn Wirksworth

Havendale, Chesterfield

Poms Ashbourne

Pub of the Year

The Ashford Arms, Ashford-in-the-Water

The George Hathersage

The Bull’s Head, Fopllow

Regenerative Tourism Award

Mulino Lodge – Farm & Retreat, Ashbourne

Morley Hayes, Derby

Rivendale Lodge Retreat Ltd, Ashbourne

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year

Raven House Farm, Tibshelf

Derbyshire Staycations, Bakewell

Muse Escapes, Buxton

Taste of Derbyshire – Cafe / Tearoom

on the bridge, New Mills

The Penny Pot Café, Edale

Village Green, Eyam

Taste of Derbyshire – Restaurant

The Peacock at Rowsley

The Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge, Chesterfield

Morley Hayes, Derbyshire

Team of the Year Award

New Bath Hotel Lido, Matlock Bath

The Peacock at Rowsley Team

Matlock Farm Park

Tourism Young Achiever Award

Jaimee Truss-Clarke, Derby Museums

Angel Williamson, Pub Tours Ltd

Ethan Torr, Buxton Civic Association

Visitor Attraction of the Year

Carsington Water, Ashbourne

The Children’s Country House at Sudbury

Museum of Making, Derby

Details of the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire can be found at: www.visitpeakdistrict.com/tourism-awards

Details of the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Nottinghamshire can be found at: www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/nottinghamshire-tourism-awards

Chesterfield has many independent bars and restaurants for you to explore. Visit our guide: 50 food and drink dining experiences to try in Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

Peak Edge Hotel, and Matlock Farm Park are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Staveley town centre secures £60,000 funding boost

Plans to improve Staveley town centre are set to receive a further £60,000 boost, with funding left over from projects delivered under budget being reinvested in High Street, Church Street and connections to Chesterfield Canal.

The additional funding forms part of the wider £25.2 million Staveley Town Deal, which supports projects designed to drive long-term economic growth, create skills and employment opportunities, and improve green spaces and the canal network around Staveley.

Managed by Chesterfield Borough Council, the programme aims to create a place where people can start, stay and grow.

Agreed by the Staveley Town Deal Board on Friday, 9th October, the additional funding will build on improvements already delivered through Staveley’s £25 million regeneration programme, helping to make the town centre a more attractive place to live, work and visit.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project transformed the marketplace with new paving, lighting, planting, a play space and a pavilion building. The pavilion houses Staveley Library, with business space upstairs. The project also provided grants to help businesses improve their shop fronts.

While Staveley 21 included improvements along High Street, the additional funding will allow further work to enhance the wider town centre and strengthen links to the canal.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“Our most recent Town Deal survey, with the community, showed there was strong support for further investment in the town centre and by reallocating this funding which has come back into the programme we can deliver additional improvements, and achieve more of what the community wants to see. These works will build on our momentum to make sure the town is a place to start, stay and grow.”

Further improvements planned for Staveley town centre

The Board will develop a detailed plan for the funding that reflects community expectations. Proposed improvements could include repairing street furniture, improving planting, fixing paving and enhancing lighting along High Street and Church Street. The funding will also help strengthen the connection between the town centre and the canal.

Chesterfield Borough Council will work closely with Derbyshire County Council and Staveley Town Council to deliver the improvements, as responsibility for maintaining the town centre is shared between the three councils.

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

“Our town centre works have transformed the market place, creating an attractive space that encourages visitors on a day-to-day basis but also provides space for the town centre to host events and activities for the community to enjoy. We’ve already seen new businesses open since the works have been completed.

“The original project plan included proposals to rejuvenate High Street but this additional funding will allow us to do even more to improve the town centre and strengthen the connection to the canal. We want to see Staveley town centre thriving – providing space for businesses to grow and for the community to enjoy.

“We’ve seen lots of positive comments about our town centre project and these works are a key part of our long-term ambition to ensure that Staveley is a place that the community can be proud of.”

A full programme of works for High Street and Church Street will now be developed to ensure the additional funding delivers further improvements for the town centre.

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and its regeneration projects: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/

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

New growth strategy to drive investment, skills and growth in Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved a new four-year growth strategy that will help attract investment, strengthen skills, enhance our town centre and create new opportunities for businesses and residents.

The Growth Strategy 2026-2030 sets out a long-term vision to ensure Chesterfield remains a thriving, resilient and forward-looking borough, building on the success of previous economic growth programmes.

Approved at a meeting of full council on Wednesday, 15th July, 2026 the strategy outlines how the council will work alongside businesses, education providers and regional partners to support economic growth while ensuring local people benefit from new opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“This strategy will help ensure that our borough remains a thriving place to live and work but it also sets out our commitment to delivering inclusive growth so that everyone in our community can share in the benefits of a growing economy. Whether it is working with our partners to enhance skills provision for local people or attracting new businesses and investment to our borough, we want our economy to provide everyone with the chance to build a fantastic life in Chesterfield.

“Through this strategy we are building on our success – we have seen thousands of jobs created, new businesses move into the borough and record levels of investment by both the private and public sector. We want this trend to continue, and we will work with our partners to ensure we can achieve even more for our communities.

“We are an ambitious borough and that is reflected throughout this strategy, but our key aim is to unlock our potential to assert Chesterfield’s role as a regional driver of economic growth.”

People walking through Chesterfield Market

Five priorities for future growth

The strategy identifies five priorities that will guide economic growth over the next four years:

  • Help businesses grow and attract new investment.
  • Build infrastructure that supports employment and housing growth.
  • Strengthen the character and vibrancy of Chesterfield’s town centres.
  • Develop Chesterfield’s role as a visitor destination and gateway to the surrounding area.
  • Ensure local people have the skills needed to progress in the labour market and benefit from future employment opportunities.

To deliver these ambitions, the council will continue working with businesses and skills providers to improve access to training and employment support. It also commits to initiatives such as local labour clauses on major planning applications, helping local communities benefit directly from new developments.

The strategy also builds on major regeneration projects, including Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield, by supporting more events in the town centre, continuing investment in public spaces and working with Chesterfield Town Board, part of the Government’s Pride in Place programme, and the East Midlands Combined County Authority to unlock new opportunities such as the East Midlands Investment Zone.

Other major projects highlighted within the strategy include the Staveley Growth Corridor, the reopening of the Barrow Hill Line, the Staveley Vision Masterplan and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan.

To discover more on what makes Chesterfield a great place to live, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living

For more information and to read the full Growth Strategy 2026–2030, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/chesterfields-growth-strategy

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

UK Shared Prosperity Fund helps local communities and businesses thrive

Chesterfield Borough Council and its partners are celebrating the lasting impact of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which has brought £3.793 million of investment into projects supporting communities, businesses and residents across our borough since 2022.

Working with organisations from the public, private, business, community and voluntary sectors, the council secured an initial £2.693 million through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in spring 2022 to deliver priority projects between December 2022 and March 2025. The programme was later extended to March 2026, with a further £1.1 million awarded.

As the lead authority for delivery, Chesterfield Borough Council established a UKSPF Partnership Board, bringing together organisations from across our borough to help shape and deliver projects that respond to local needs.

The funding has supported projects under the programme’s three priorities: communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

Investing in communities, businesses and people

Across Chesterfield, the funding has helped strengthen neighbourhoods, support local organisations and create opportunities for residents of all ages.

Community projects have improved local spaces, encouraged people to become more involved in their neighbourhoods and supported some of our borough’s most deprived communities, helping to build pride, resilience and stronger local connections.

The programme has also helped entrepreneurs and established businesses to start, grow and innovate, creating new opportunities for investment, employment and skills development across the area.

Through people and skills projects, residents have received tailored support to overcome barriers to employment, build confidence and develop the skills needed for future careers.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Chair of the UKSPF Partnership Board, said:

“The UK Shared Prosperity Fund has made a real difference across Chesterfield, helping us to support local businesses, invest in our communities and create new opportunities for residents.

“What has made this programme particularly valuable is the strength of the partnerships behind it, with organisations coming together to deliver practical support and long-term benefits for the borough.

“It was a great privilege to act as Chair of the UKSPF Partnership Board. The power of the partnerships we formed will make a lasting impact on the borough.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“One of the best things about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Chesterfield has been seeing what people can achieve when they work together. Councils, businesses, community organisations and volunteers have turned this investment into practical support and lasting improvements for communities across the borough.

“The funding has helped local businesses grow, supported people to develop new skills, strengthened neighbourhoods and given residents the support they need to move towards work. Behind every project are people who care about their communities and have worked hard to make a positive difference.

“As Mayor, I want to see that spirit of partnership continue. The confidence, relationships and momentum built through this programme has given Chesterfield a strong foundation for the future.”

Since the programme began in 2022, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has enabled organisations across Chesterfield to deliver projects that support economic growth, strengthen communities and improve opportunities for local people. The partnerships established through the programme are expected to continue creating benefits for the borough long after the funding has come to an end.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund was provided by the UK Government to improve pride in place and increase life chances by investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, and developing people and skills.

To discover more about investment and regeneration taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

For more information about the projects delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, visit Chesterfield Borough Council’s UKSPF webpages.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Stay

Tourism awards open to showcase excellence across the East Midlands

Tourism and hospitality businesses across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to apply for the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards 2026/2027, celebrating excellence across the region’s visitor economy.

Applications opened on Monday, 15th June 2026, with businesses able to enter through one of two destination award programmes delivered by the East Midlands’ two VisitEngland-accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs):

Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire and Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Nottinghamshire

The Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards mark an exciting new chapter for tourism recognition in the region, building on the success of the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards and Nottinghamshire’s established programme.

Delivered in partnership by Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby and Visit Nottinghamshire, the awards will celebrate outstanding businesses, attractions and experiences from across the East Midlands.

Recognising regional success

The awards highlight the innovation, quality, sustainability and customer experience of our region’s tourism and hospitality sector, with categories spanning accommodation, food and drink, attractions, experiences and accessible tourism.

Businesses from Chesterfield have previously achieved success at the tourism awards, reflecting our town’s growing reputation for quality visitor experiences and its contribution to the wider regional economy.

Winners from each local programme will have the opportunity to progress to the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said:

“The Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards have a proud track record of recognising the businesses, organisations and individuals that make our destination such a special place to visit.

“The new Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire build on that success, ensuring Derbyshire continues to benefit from its own dedicated awards programme while gaining greater regional visibility.

“Our visitor economy is home to outstanding accommodation providers, attractions, restaurants and experiences. These awards are an opportunity to showcase that excellence and inspire businesses to continue raising standards for visitors.”

How to apply

Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday, 26th July 2026.

Businesses can find full details on categories, eligibility and how to enter here: Visit Peak District Tourism Awards information

To discover award-winning places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Vote for Chesterfield’s best night‑out venue in 2026 awards

Chesterfield is celebrating its vibrant nightlife as the 2026 Best Bar None Awards recognise the town’s best pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants.

Vote for your favourite venue and help celebrate the businesses that go the extra mile to create safer, more welcoming and enjoyable nights out.

The awards take place on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, and will bring together venues from across the borough to celebrate excellence in customer safety, venue management and partnership working.

Ahead of the ceremony, vote in the People’s Choice Award and support the venue you think delivers Chesterfield’s best night out.

Voting closes on Friday, 3rd July 2026.

Supporting safer socialising

Supported nationally by the Home Office and the drinks industry, the Best Bar None scheme launched in Chesterfield in 2023. Chesterfield Borough Council delivers the scheme locally in partnership with Chesterfield Pubwatch, Derbyshire Constabulary and Best Bar None.

The initiative promotes collaboration between licensed venues, police and the local authority, helping to raise standards and share best practice.

Recognising excellence across the sector

There will also be five more special awards up for grabs on the evening, chosen as part of the accreditation assessment process.

Together, these awards highlight the quality and diversity of Chesterfield’s hospitality sector and reinforce the town’s reputation as a welcoming, safe place to enjoy a night out.

Ahead of the awards, Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield and those that are signed up to the Best Bar None scheme are all playing a part to ensure everyone can feel safe when socialising in the borough.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating our accredited venues at the Best Bar None awards on 8th July, and we want to hear from you too, so make sure you vote for your favourite venue to win the People’s Choice Award 2026.”

Get involved

Support your favourite venue and celebrate the people and businesses that help make Chesterfield’s nightlife welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

Vote for your favourite venue by visiting: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/dtyqxz

This summer, Chesterfield comes alive with flavour, colour and culture. Taste global cuisines at town centre festivals or explore our independent restaurants, pubs and bars: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

University of Derby named UK’s top university in 2027 student rankings

The University of Derby has been named UK University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, based on reviews from more than 24,000 students across the country.

The university climbed six places to secure the top position in the 2027 league table, which evaluated 323 institutions across the UK. It also ranked first for employability, second for accommodation and second for course quality.

Building on this success, it is expanding its presence in Chesterfield, with new courses at its St Helena Campus in business, sport and nursing, including foundation year routes, to support local skills and future workforce needs.

The results highlight the institution’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong career outcomes for students.

A total of 97% of students who submitted reviews said they would recommend the university to a friend, reflecting consistently high levels of student satisfaction.

The Uni Compare rankings are based on independent data and feedback from current and former students, assessing key aspects of university life including accommodation, course quality, employability and social experience. The rankings aim to give prospective students a clear and honest comparison of institutions ahead of starting university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“To be named the UK’s best university by students is an exceptional achievement and one we are immensely proud of because it comes directly from those who know us best.

“This recognition demonstrates the value students place on their experience at Derby and the increased social capital they gain. That is one of the strongest endorsements any university can receive.”

The university delivers teaching excellence through an industry-focused approach, with courses ranging from foundation level to postgraduate study and research.

It has further strengthened its links with business and industry through the launch of its Chancellor’s Entrepreneurs’ Club, delivered in collaboration with entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and the university’s Chancellor William Cavendish, Chair of the Devonshire Group. The initiative gives students direct access to influential business leaders and mentors.

Students also benefit from links with leading global organisations, including Google, Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and the NHS.

To find out more about learning and higher education opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-training-opportunities/

The University of Derby and Devonshire Group are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

Chesterfield housebuilder drives growth with three new Derbyshire developments

Chesterfield-based Stancliffe Homes is continuing its regional growth with three new residential developments in Wingerworth, Bolsover and Darley Dale.

The company based at Markham Vale Environment Centre, which recently secured a prestigious five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation for the second consecutive year, is continuing to invest in high-quality, energy-efficient homes while supporting the growth of communities across our region.

New homes launched in Wingerworth

Stancliffe Homes has officially opened the show home at its Kingswood Park development in Wingerworth. The exclusive scheme comprises 17 stone-built bungalows designed specifically for the over-55s market.

Each home has been built with sustainability in mind, featuring air-source heat pumps, solar PV panels and electric vehicle charging points as standard. The development has already proven highly popular, with all homes reserved before the show home opened.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Stancliffe Homes, said:

“It’s fantastic to have all our homes on-site reserved before the show home even opened. Bungalows have long been a popular choice for those looking to future-proof their living arrangements. There is evidently a very strong demand for modern, light and highly energy-efficient single-storey homes.”

Major investment in Bolsover

Stancliffe Homes is also playing a key role in the delivery of the Bolsover North masterplan, one of the area’s most significant housing and infrastructure projects.

Working alongside Strata and Persimmon Homes, the developer will deliver 105 of the 547 homes planned as part of the wider scheme.

The project includes 17 acres of public green space, a new town park and land earmarked for a future primary school and care facility, helping to create a sustainable community for future generations.

Sam Jones, Director of Stancliffe Homes, said:

“We feel a strong connection to Bolsover and its future. The district is brimming with potential, and being involved in a project of this scale allows us to contribute to the town’s wider infrastructure while staying true to our design-led approach. This is a pivotal period of growth for us, and we remain focused on delivering homes that both we and the local community can be proud of.”

New development underway in the Derbyshire Dales

Meanwhile, construction has begun on Stancliffe Homes’ latest development, Stonebridge Walk in Darley Dale.

The scheme will feature homes built entirely from natural stone and offer a range of two to five-bedroom properties. Designed to reflect the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, the development will combine traditional materials with modern specifications and energy-efficient features.

Supporting sustainable growth

Across all three developments, Stancliffe Homes is continuing its commitment to sustainable housebuilding by incorporating renewable technologies and modern construction methods into its homes.

By delivering highly energy-efficient properties, many of which achieve A-rated EPCs, the Chesterfield-based developer is helping to meet demand for lower-carbon housing while contributing to the growth of communities across Derbyshire.

The latest developments represent another milestone in Stancliffe Homes’ growth story, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality homes while supporting investment and regeneration across the region.

Find more places to live in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in Development, Home, Stay

Chesterfield welcomes growing dessert business Rassam’s Creamery

Rassam’s Creamery has opened a new store in Chesterfield, bringing its popular range of desserts, ice creams and sweet treats to our town.

The growing dessert brand officially welcomed customers to its new venue at 359 Sheffield Rd, Whittington Moor, on Friday, 5th June 2026. The first 50 visitors even received a free dessert as part of the launch celebrations.

Originally established in Sheffield, Rassam’s Creamery has built a strong reputation for its family-friendly dining experience and extensive dessert menu, making it a popular choice for a sweet treat.

Visitors can enjoy freshly made waffles, crepes, ice creams and milkshakes, alongside traditional favourites including coconut jam sponge, apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding.

Plus, many of the desserts are even delivered by their robot assistants, where waiting staff out on the floor can quickly serve dishes up. A convenient boost for waiting staff and faster service for customers.

The brand has expanded steadily in recent years, opening multiple stores across Sheffield as well as in Manchester, Liverpool and Kenya.

The opening event attracted a strong response from visitors, with queues forming outside the store as families, young people and dessert lovers came to support the new business.

Chief Financial Officer, Anise Ahmed, Rassam’s Creamery, said:

“The opening evening went really well, and we were very pleased with the turnout. We had queues outside the store, which was amazing to see, and the response from the Chesterfield community was really positive.

Chesterfield is a brilliant town with a strong local community, and we hope the store becomes a popular destination for families, young people and dessert lovers.”

To discover more places to eat and drink in Chesterfield this summer, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield business leaders highlight quality of life as key to economic growth

Business leaders across Chesterfield say the town’s strong quality of life is helping attract talent, support growth and reinforce its reputation as a leading place to live, work and invest.

Affordability and lifestyle driving opportunity

Chesterfield’s reputation as the East Midlands’ most affordable market town is shaping both lifestyle and economic opportunity.
From accessible housing to lower operational costs, affordability is enabling residents to enjoy a better work-life balance while supporting local business resilience.

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director at Lime Living Estate Agents, explained:

“Affordability plays a major role in quality of life and economic resilience. In Chesterfield, lower living and operating costs help residents enjoy a better work-life balance and make home ownership or raising a family more achievable.”

He added that this balance strengthens the wider economy:

“When affordability is combined with investment and strong local amenities, it makes towns like Chesterfield increasingly attractive for both residents and employers.”

This strength is also reflected in the local property market. Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, said:

“Despite the Renters’ Rights Bill, potential landlords are still investing in the local market, providing quality homes for local residents and those keen to move to town.”

Katherine Stagg, Managing Director at Stagg Mortgage Services, highlighted the wider benefits for households and businesses:

“Chesterfield’s affordability makes a real difference to day-to-day life. It gives residents breathing space and allows people to enjoy a good standard of living without feeling constantly stretched.

“For local businesses, it means customers have more confidence to plan ahead, invest in their homes and support the high street. It creates a healthier, more balanced local economy.”

Strong community and local connection

Chesterfield’s appeal is also rooted in its strong sense of community and connection, something business leaders say is increasingly valued by employees and entrepreneurs.

The town has been recognised in national studies, including the Rightmove Happy at Home Index, and has been highlighted as one of Britain’s happiest places to live.

Kevin Walker, Founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, said:

“What I love about Chesterfield is that it still feels like a proper town. People know each other. Businesses talk to each other. If you get involved and support others, you become part of the local fabric quite quickly.”

Ross Watson, General Manager at GRIDSERVE’s Markham Vale Electric Forecourt, added:

“Chesterfield has a natural warmth to it. People look out for each other, and that sense of community shows up in everyday interactions, whether you’re grabbing a coffee, walking through the market or chatting to someone on a trail.”

Access to green space enhancing wellbeing

Access to nature is another defining feature of Chesterfield’s offering, with parks, walking routes, and the nearby Peak District supporting well-being and work-life balance.

The town has been ranked among the UK’s top 20 greenest towns, reinforcing its appeal as a place where residents can easily connect with the outdoors.

Ross Watson highlighted the ease of accessing these spaces:

“From Holmebrook Valley Park to Linacre Reservoirs and the Peak District just up the road, nature is woven into everyday life here.

“The Five Pits Trail is a favourite of mine. Being able to finish work and be out in peaceful surroundings within minutes is something I never take for granted.”

Melanie Archbould, CEO of Cloud-Busting, said this proximity to nature has tangible benefits:

“Being on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park changes how people live. It gives people the chance to switch off, reset and return with a clearer head.”

Summing up the balance, Kevin Walker added:

“You get the benefits of a connected town, but you are never far from somewhere quieter.”

Chesterfield’s blend of affordability, community spirit and access to green space continues to position the town as a compelling destination for businesses, investors and residents.

To discover more about what makes Chesterfield a great place to live and work, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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