Chesterfield blog

5 ways to beat the winter blues and support your wellbeing in Chesterfield

3rd January 2024

January is a month often associated with resolutions and fresh starts, making it a great time to beat those winter blues and focus on supporting our wellbeing goals.

Chesterfield offers a unique blend of award-winning parks, rejuvenating spas, vibrant businesses, and community facilities, not to mention easy access to the stunning Peak District. This creates a perfect environment for self-care.

Here are our five ways you can focus on your health, fitness and overall wellbeing.

Get outdoors and explore our glorious green spaces

Family enjoying nature and supporting their wellbeing in queens park

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield

It has been proven time and again that getting out in nature and taking part in gentle exercise can hugely boost our mental and physical health. Luckily, Chesterfield boasts an abundance of picturesque parks and trails to discover.

Queen’s Park, with its beautiful lake and gardens, offers a tranquil space for gentle exercise. In addition, Holmebrook Valley Park provides scenic walking trails surrounded by lush greenery, encouraging visitors to reconnect with nature. Chesterfield Canal is also home to some wonderful scenery, with the towpath being popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists.

What’s more, seven parks and open spaces in Chesterfield hold internationally recognised Green Flag status. This provides the ideal backdrop for a refreshing start to 2024. If you’re unsure where to start, Active Derbyshire has some great advice on their website, makingourmove.org.uk.

Burn off those Christmas calories

Queen Park Sport Centre gym exercise wellbeing class

Queen’s Park Sports Centre

Do you have a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or even just get a bit fitter? Maybe you’ve signed up for the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k and want to get in shape? Queen’s Park Sports Centre in Chesterfield and Staveley’s Healthy Living Centre can help you on your fitness journey. More information on timetables, booking and memberships can be found on the Chesterfield Borough Council website.

Furthermore, if you like getting out on your bike, Chesterfield is a great place to be. With plenty of cycling trails and routes on offer and the iconic Peak District just a stone’s throw away, Chesterfield has plenty of opportunities for cyclists of all abilities.

Find out more about cycling in and around Chesterfield including some of the best routes, and support on how to keep your bike in top condition.

Indulge in a relaxing spa day

Couple enjoying the spa at ringwood hall

Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa

If you’re looking to escape the winter chill or wind down after a busy Christmas period, maybe it is worth indulging in one Chesterfield’s spa experiences.

Local hotels such as Ringwood Hall or DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park provide a range of wellness treatments, allowing you to unwind and pamper yourself. Also, Casa and the Peak Edge Hotel are sure to provide you with a night or two of luxury.

Head to our hotels page for more details and get ideas for your perfect wellness retreat.

Chesterfield’s business community is ready and waiting to support you

Sian Spencer-Bray, Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic Chesterfield

Looking for some expert advice to boost your mental and physical health?

Our area is home to businesses such as The Body Health Centre, Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic, and 360 Wellbeing Centre, all of which provide services to support the health and wellbeing of our residents.

Check out our directory of Chesterfield Champions, a network of more than 200 businesses which help to promote the town as a great place to live, work and visit!

Make memories with family and friends

Getting out and socialising certainly helps to boost our sense of belonging. So, why not get some dates in your diary for Chesterfield’s diverse range of events coming up in 2024?

This Spring will see the return of the popular Peddler Market. In addition, Chesterfield Pride, Eat in the Park and the BRM Solicitors Festival of Cricket are all confirmed for the Summer. Head over to our Events page to see what’s on across our town.

Lastly, don’t forget to give @ChesterfieldUK a follow on social media to keep up-to-date on events happening throughout the year!

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield, Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield fitness, chesterfield health, Chesterfield sports, Chesterfield wellbeing, Love Chesterfield

Businesses celebrate Chesterfield’s biggest successes from 2023

15th December 2023

2023 has seen significant investment in Chesterfield, with sites including One Waterside Place, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, and Hartington Business Park all helping to grow our town’s economy.

Meanwhile, announcements of further developments in the town continue to drive forward economic activity, with multi-million pound projects set to get underway in Chesterfield and Staveley’s town centres. Planning permission has been submitted for the much anticipated Gateway @Peak development, giving visitors a base to explore Chesterfield and the Peak District.

With major progress being made across our town in 2023 and further ambitions for growth in 2024, the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have shared with us their biggest successes from the past 12 months.

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“This year, it has been great to see the success of the town’s new flagship office spaces, One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. Elsewhere, Markham Vale continues to attract new businesses to the area, and Staveley’s Hartington Business Park has also demonstrated a strong appetite from businesses to invest in our town. In 2024, I look forward to projects such as the Gateway @Peak, the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, and the revitalisation of our high streets boosting Chesterfield’s regeneration even further.”

About Destination Chesterfield.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader, Chesterfield Borough Council

“There is lots to be excited about in 2024. We will continue to put external funding to good use by investing in the future of our borough, our project to revitalise Chesterfield town centre will begin and link with the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall into a world-class theatre and museum. Working with our Staveley Town Deal partners, significant progress will be made towards realising the ambitious projects that will ensure the town is a place to start, to stay and to grow. We will also be investing in more affordable housing for our community. Heading into 2024 we continue to face some difficult decisions around our budget, but we will ensure that putting our community first is at the heart of everything we do.”

About Chesterfield Borough Council

Dom Stevens, Manager, Destination Chesterfield

“2023 has been a year of positivity and progress. New events such as Peddler Market, Chesterfield Children’s Festival, and Eat in the Park, alongside established favourites, have helped to support our independent businesses and the wider economy. In 2024, I look forward to more of the same, with partnerships and collaborations helping bring forward our town’s ambitions.”

About Destination Chesterfield.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager, DBCP

“The new office developments in Chesterfield have been a triumph for the town in 2023. They have attracted businesses into the town and set the bar for construction standards and high quality where building control is concerned. With all the developments happening now, and in the future, it is an opportunity for the town to lead on build quality next year and beyond.”

About DBCP

Amy McCroray, Marketing Administrator, Rosewood Wealth Management

This year, Rosewood has enjoyed being part of Chesterfield’s flagship regeneration project, Chesterfield Waterside. Joining 3 other businesses in relocating to the environmentally-friendly Basin Square office building, the development will encourage more visitors to Chesterfield and create stronger local business links. Looking ahead to 2024, the Rosewood team is most optimistic about the continued regeneration of the town with upcoming projects to include the refurbishment of Chesterfield train station.

About Rosewood Wealth Management

Nick Grayson, Managing Director, Pinelog Limited

“2023 was the year that Pinelog became part of Chesterfield’s business community, after we relocated our manufacturing premises from Bakewell to Sheepbridge. Being able to see Chesterfield’s success developing in real time and the growth in business premises has been immensely encouraging. There is so much happening in the town, and I am delighted that the business is now part of the story. 2024 will be an exciting year for Pinelog and Chesterfield.”

Anna Melton, Owner and Director, In the Works PR

“What a year 2023 has been! Full of highs and lows, which Chesterfield has dealt with and, in many cases, emerged stronger. Looking to the future, I have high hopes for the town centre. There is a lot of investment taking place and the new offices at the Donut and Waterside are adding to footfall. I think 2024 will be the year that local people rediscover Chesterfield town centre.”

About In the Works PR

Rob Woodhead, Head of Private Client and Executive Director, BRM Solicitors

“2023 has seen a year of progressive change for Chesterfield and we’re looking forward to seeing what 2024 will bring for the town. We’re delighted to continue to be one of the leading providers of commercial and private client legal services in the area and we’re delighted to champion Chesterfield as a great place to do business as well as being a sought-after place to live. We’ve had another successful year supporting the local community and being a part of the ongoing regeneration of the town through various commercial property deals.”

About BRM Solicitors

Siân Spencer Bray, Clinical Director & Lead Psychotherapist, Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic

“2023 has brought to light the togetherness of our businesses. With many collaborations and partnerships, you can see how passionate Chesterfield businesses are about working closely with each other to offer more to customers and service users. The increase in events in and around Chesterfield brings a great sense of community and showcases many of the wonderful businesses we have too. It is wonderful to see so many businesses championing positive mental health and wellness in their workplaces and within the community.”

About Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic

Josh Dickens, Business Development & Marketing Manager, SMH Group

“Chesterfield FC is the biggest success story in our opinion, and we aren’t just saying this because of our sponsorship of the stadium. The team’s captivating performance promises the potential for promotion, anticipating increased attendance, TV exposure, sponsorship opportunities, and financial support for various developmental aspects. Additionally, the Community Trust’s takeover has fostered stability and trust, attracting businesses and fans eager to support the restructured setup.”

About SMH Group

Mike Jones, Customer Relationship Manager, Windowcharm Blinds & Curtains

“Over the past year, there have been many successes for Chesterfield. One of the biggest achievements has been the town’s ability to maintain a strong economy despite the challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis. The community has shown resilience and adaptability, and I believe this will continue to be a driving force for growth in the years to come. With continued investment in infrastructure and businesses, the town has the potential to become a hub for innovation and a destination for visitors.”

About Windowcharm Blinds & Curtains

Chris Sellars, Chief Executive and Legal Counsel, Bridge Help

“The floods were devastating for the town, including a member of the Bridge Help team whose home was flooded. However, to see how everyone pulled together helping residents and businesses, confirmed that Chesterfield’s spirit continues to be strong in adversity. 2024 will be a challenging year for the country, however I have no doubt that Chesterfield will not only come out fighting but stronger – if past performance is anything to go by.”

About Bridge Help

James Pogson, Managing Director, Northern Tea Merchants

“The floods brought devastation to Chatsworth Road and surrounding areas this year, and Northern Tea Merchants was one of the many businesses affected. Whilst terrible, I was delighted at how the community rallied to support each other. Changes need to be made, so I am looking forward to seeing new and successful flood prevention measures in 2024, that will preclude this from happening again and will benefit residents and businesses.”

About Northern Tea Merchants

Jamie Wajs, Owner, Lime Living Estate Agents

“The town continues to show that it has an attractive and strong local business and employment economy and there has been a good level of positive investment in new infrastructure during 2023 and with more in the pipeline for 2024. This is making Chesterfield an attractive place to live and work, with the town having a lot more to offer.”

About Lime Living Estate Agents

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law, Banner Jones Solicitors

“I’m excited to see that there have been so many new business start-ups over the year and businesses relocating to Chesterfield. As a Chesterfield business of 145 years, it is important for us that the local economy grows and strengthens. We continue to build strategic partnerships with local businesses (including other Chesterfield Champions) offering a full range of commercial legal services and employment law services”.

About Banner Jones Solicitors

Stuart Rooker, Careers Lead, Direct Education Business Partnership

“It’s been fantastic to see a brand-new programme piloted in Chesterfield this year and set to expand over the next four. The ‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ (CMiC) workshop programme is an exciting initiative to deliver careers-related workshops in schools and forge links with local businesses. The pilot focused on the property and construction sector, and the project will widen to include health and care, and engineering and manufacturing.”

About Direct Education Business Partnership

David Whiteley, Co-Director, FWD Motion

“Chesterfield’s ongoing resilience is what really stands out for me in 2023. It has been incredibly moving to see the community come together to support one another. We simply hope that in 2024 we see our residents, workers, and businesses back on their feet.”

About FWD Motion

Rod Auton, Secretary, Chesterfield Canal Trust

“I’m delighted that One Waterside Place is now fully occupied. Hopefully this will be the encouragement needed for the rest of the developments around the canal basin at Chesterfield Waterside to get underway. I am very much looking forward to the Staveley Town Deal’s canal projects starting on the ground after years of planning. These are the construction of the first building at Staveley Town Basin, the new Trans-Pennine Trail Bridge and the subsequent restoration of the canal further east.”

About Chesterfield Canal Trust

Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP Chartered Accountants

“Chesterfield is experiencing a renaissance, with schemes like the £340 million Waterside Regeneration project playing a vital role in attracting both talent and high-quality businesses to the area. Our home, One Waterside Place, a desirable location next to the station, has proved the mantra ‘build it and they will come’, with its six floors of Grade A office accommodation now fully let. It was fantastic to see the Government award a £20 million grant from the Levelling Up Fund which will support the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, modernisation of Chesterfield Museum with new education, and community facilities.”

About BHP Chartered Accountants

Amy Revell, Co-Founder and Director, We Are Spaces

“The office market in Chesterfield has been a great success! One Waterside Place is now fully let, The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is more than 85% occupied, The Glass Yard is around 95% occupied and The HQ Building is proving popular. These successes then support further developments to materialise and ensure a good level of Grade A office space continues to be available. I believe we are very well placed to ensure businesses can recruit and retain skilled people in high quality and affordable workspaces.”

Paul Lewis, Head of Partnerships, Mortgage 1st

“It is tough to narrow it down to one standout moment from the year but the town benefitting from £20m over the next 10 years via the Government levelling up investment fund was a pivotal success for Chesterfield in 2023; this along with further investment in and around the town will hopefully see the town centre flourish once more. The hope of enhanced amenities and job opportunities means that we can all look forward to 2024 with great optimism.

About Mortgage 1st

Matt Close, UK Business Lead, NeoDyne

“2023 marks a milestone for NeoDyne with our first Christmas in Chesterfield. The Borough Council has successfully attracted and supported new businesses in 2023, and we’ve certainly experienced the welcome and benefitted from their support. Looking forward to 2024, we’re excited about the continued investment in the town centre and Waterside regeneration projects. We intend to play our part by championing Chesterfield as a great place to live and work.”

Richard Fowler, Technical Sales and Account Manager, RA Information Systems

“Having worked alongside our customers for over two decades, we have seen a remarkable transformation in Chesterfield’s business landscape. The recent success of Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place, coupled with a surge in office space demand, reflects the town’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and tech-driven environment for businesses. This achievement positions Chesterfield as a robust hub, creating a ripple effect that not only attracts investment but also contributes to technology-driven workspace provision for the local community. Exciting times lie ahead as we continue to shape Chesterfield’s economic success story.”

About RA Information Systems

Emma Pymm, Head of Partnerships and Client Relations, ActionCoach

“The real success for Chesterfield is the continued progression of our business community working together and building impactful relationships. I hope that we can continue to put Chesterfield on the map as not just a through town to the beautiful Peak District, but a thriving gateway for visitors to enjoy and make unforgettable memories. In turn, this will build our economy for future generations. I believe the Gateway at PEAK will play a major part in supporting this.”

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

“I think the biggest success in 2023 has been the strength of the public and private sector collaboration to drive forward the numerous local projects. It was evident from the full house at the Chesterfield Investment Summit just how broad the support is within the local business community. On a personal level, I was delighted to be involved with the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative. It was great to see the enthusiasm from the students and excellent to hear that a number were now considering a career in the construction industry!”

About Rodgers Leask

Jimmy Drew, Commercial Manager, Derbyshire County Cricket Club

“Our five days of cricket at the picturesque Queen’s Park are the highlight of our calendar, especially the T20 match. In front of a sold-out crowd, an incredible atmosphere and a record victory of 144 runs in 2023, we hope next year’s festival can be bigger and better than previous years, as we continue to put on a brilliant event for the residents in the north of the county.”

About Derbyshire County Cricket Club

Emily Bowman, Managing Director, Junction Arts

“Here at Junction Arts, we are extremely proud of the Chesterfield Children’s Festival that we delivered this year. We welcomed over 8,500 people across the two-day event, boosting the town centre economy and encouraging families to experience a range of creative activities. We are excited to build our offer for Chesterfield next year and are looking forward to creating more memorable moments for families to come together, share ideas and get creative!”

About Junction Arts

Catherine Wenborn, Managing Director, Vines Legal Limited

“The biggest success for Chesterfield over the last year is the continued creation of great spaces for work and leisure encouraging businesses to relocate and visitors to the town. In the coming year I hope to see currently unoccupied premises filled or redeveloped to good purpose.”

Nick Gorman, Owner, CCM Change Consultancy

“The sustained and growing synergetic relationships in our Chesterfield business community continue to be a highlight of working in the town. The networking and knowledge share are vital to the quest for a thriving and rewarding business environment. Our future strategy should involve a plan that looks to capitalise on the environmental ambitions of CBC, matching our local business passion, acumen, professionalism, and innovation with a pursuit of sustainability.”

About CCM Change Consultancy

Georgia Severn, Sales Co-ordinator and Head of Marketing, Custom Solar

“The biggest success for Chesterfield 2023 from my perspective at Custom Solar is the increase in local business’ investments into renewables. We’ve helped multiple clients in our local hometown start their journey to Net-Zero with Solar PV installations, which inevitably, supports the town’s goals too. For 2024 we are excited to continue supporting our neighbouring companies reduce their Carbon emissions as we already have multiple projects for Chesterfield in our pipeline.”

About Custom Solar

Ben Knights, Trainee Estates Manager, FI Real Estate Management

Within 2023 FI Real Estate Management has seen numerous changes to businesses ways of working and how they want to utilise the space in which they work from. Chesterfield itself is almost perfectly adapted to these requirements with the council identifying these trends early and creating space to help nurture growing local businesses. Something we also did ourselves was helping create high quality office space at both The HQ and The Quad in Chesterfield.

About FI Real Estate Management

Emma Woodhall, Director, Learning Curve Group Hair and Beauty Academies

“It’s been a great year for us; we were awarded Training Provider of the Year at the 2023 VTCT Awards. Looking to 2024 our aim is to support hundreds more learners in the region to achieve qualifications to succeed in the industry, training the next generation of beauty therapists and hairstylists! We are looking to build upon current relationships to retain talent within Chesterfield, and support local business.”

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, UncategorisedTagged in Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield business community, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Chesterfield regeneration, Love Chesterfield

Chair’s Blog: “It’s crucial we take full advantage of the opportunities that lay ahead in 2024 and beyond.”

5th December 2023

2023 is ending, but there is no doubt that we go into the new year with optimism in Chesterfield. You will be aware that town centres across the UK need to adapt, and I am sure you will have heard about the projects to revitalise Chesterfield and Staveley’s high streets that are either happening behind the scenes or just beginning. Soon we will see this work taking place with our own eyes!

In Chesterfield town centre the £17 million project to refurbish the Council’s historic Stephenson Memorial Hall is underway. It will bring together an extended Pomegranate Theatre and modern Chesterfield Museum, alongside new gallery space, a café bar, and education and community facilities. By installing the latest technology and improving accessibility, we will ensure we can continue to attract the highest quality entertainment and culture to our town, adding to Chesterfield’s vibrancy as a visitor destination.

Starting in summer, the modernisation of our marketplace will begin. Plans involve creating a more defined, vibrant shopping zone with flexible space, better lighting, and digital connectivity. This will enable our town centre to host more events and activities, supporting both the market and the surrounding independent businesses. There will be new seating areas to encourage shoppers to stay longer and more trees will be planted for a greener town centre.

The connections between several key points in the town centre will also continue. You may have already seen some upgrades along Elder Way and Packers Row to make it more accessible. You will see more of this taking place in 2024, ensuring Chesterfield keeps its historic feel, but is fit for purpose going forward.

In Staveley, £6m will be spent on improved connectivity, lighting, more planting, space for an outdoor cinema and a landmark pavilion building, creating a more attractive place to visit and spend time.

These developments across our town centres are vital to ensuring their future. We all want to see our towns busy, full of people shopping, eating, drinking, and spending time with loved ones. We want to create quality jobs for local people and give businesses confidence that Chesterfield is an excellent destination to invest in.

We can all continue to play our part in this by shopping locally, using our local restaurants, cafes, leisure destinations and market stalls. There is so much happening this Christmas! It’s crucial we continue to back our town and ensure we take full advantage of the opportunities that lay ahead in 2024 and beyond.

Make the most of local shopping, events and activities taking place across Chesterfield throughout the festive period by visiting: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

On behalf of the Destination Chesterfield board and team, I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield regeneration, Destination Chesterfield, peter swallow

Chair’s blog: “How do we continue to adapt, change perceptions, and inspire our next generation?”

4th October 2023

‘Nothing is made in the UK anymore’: a sweeping statement I’ve heard many times over the years. Yet, 2.5 million people currently work in manufacturing in the UK.

Did you know that in Chesterfield 4,000 people are working in the sector? With industries ranging from food and drink to rail and aerospace, we have a breadth of opportunities for young people.

Projects are moving forward to strengthen our future talent pipeline in the key sectors of manufacturing, engineering, and construction.

The new Construction Skills Hub is now operating in Staveley. This pioneering project will provide 5,000 young people with the chance to learn on a live site. Courses include bench joinery, brickwork, groundworks, and electrical installation to name a few.

In nearby Barrow Hill, The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) will include state-of-the-art training facilities for the rail sector. This project is evidence of our town capitalising on the landscape around us, with key rail firms such as Bombardier and Alstom having a strong presence in Derbyshire.

So, how do we continue to adapt, change perceptions, and inspire our next generation?

Since 2014, the innovative Made in Chesterfield project has enabled more than 3,500 school pupils to visit our local manufacturing, engineering, and property businesses to see behind the scenes and discover what a career in these industries might involve.

Businesses offering ‘Made in Chesterfield’ tours this year include Europe’s most prestigious cast iron foundry United Cast Bar, Weightron Bilanciai – an international firm that makes industrial weighbridges, and Superior Wellness, a hot tub manufacturer listed as one of the UK’s top 50 fastest growing businesses.

We are once again excited to promote another cohort of young people engaging with our range of innovative organisations, and I hope it will inspire them to become our next generation of highly skilled individuals.

All too often, I hear stories of children being told that going to university is the only way to ensure they receive high-level qualifications and good jobs. In Chesterfield, we were the first town in the country to proudly declare itself an ‘Apprentice Town,’ as part of efforts to bust those myths.

Apprenticeship and training programs are widely available in Chesterfield, providing individuals with the opportunity to develop specific skills and gain real-world experience. Did you know many of those apprenticeships can also be studied to a degree level? Not to mention the opportunity to earn while you learn.

Would your children benefit from a business tour this November? Or would your business like to open its doors to young people? Please do get in touch with the team at Destination Chesterfield to find out more or visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/made.

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow speaks at Celebrate Chesterfield 2023

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield Skills, Destination Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, peter swallow, Peter Swallow Blog

Chair’s blog: “It has been delightful to see so many people attending events”

5th September 2023

As summer draws to a close, I wanted to reflect on some of the fantastic activities which have happened in our town over the last few months…

It has been delightful to see so many people attending events, bringing local communities together and supporting our independent businesses.

Back in June, we saw some fantastic cricket as Derbyshire played host to Yorkshire at Queen’s Park, with Derbyshire coming out victorious in front of a fifth successive sell-out crowd.

The Chesterfield Canal Festival also saw more than 8,000 people visiting Staveley. It is brilliant to hear of the work Chesterfield Canal Trust is carrying out with partners to restore the canal and the Staveley basin.

Elsewhere, Chesterfield’s reputation for having one of the biggest and best Pride festivals in the region was once again showcased, with more than 5,000 attendees enjoying ‘90s boyband, A1 and rapper Tinchy Stryder.

The first-ever Chesterfield Children’s Festival proved a hit with youngsters, with silent discos, comedy clubs, theatre workshops, and more. It is wonderful to see that our town is providing a quality leisure offer for people of all ages.

One of the events which really stirred emotions was the Sparkle Night Walk, in aid of Ashgate Hospice. A record 3,100 people took part, raising over £150,000 for a charity which I know is dear to so many in our area. A big well done to everyone who got involved.

We also saw the first-ever Peddler Market in Chesterfield, which was welcomed to the town centre with resounding success. It was great to see people enjoying quality food and drink from the traders, including Chesterfield’s own Pizza Pi! I can’t wait to see its return on the 15^th and 16^th of September.

I’m excited to see how Chesterfield’s programme of events continues to develop in the coming years, with upcoming regeneration in our marketplace set to create a more communal and social space in the heart of the town. Somewhere you will enjoy sitting and chatting with family and friends.

Plans for next year include a new market layout with modern stalls, more seating, better lighting, and refreshed paving. This will all provide the flexibility needed to host events regularly in the town centre, providing that much-needed footfall for our independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The regeneration will go ahead thanks to £25m of funding, secured by Chesterfield Borough Council, with the market being just part of a major project that will see several improvements to our town centre, including the Stephenson Memorial Hall. Who knows what fun awaits once all the work is completed!?

I hope that we can all continue to support our local events, businesses, and people. By doing so, we can make a huge impact on the future economic growth of our area by attracting more visitors to stay here, more families to live here and more businesses to invest here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield blog, chesterfield events, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Summer Events, Destination Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, peter swallow, Summer in Chesterfield

Chair’s blog: “Businesses certainly see strong benefits to investing and growing in Chesterfield”

9th August 2023

Creating vibrant town centres continues to be a priority for Chesterfield.

Like all towns across the UK, we know we must evolve to attract more residents, workers, and visitors to spend time in our high streets.

At the beginning of summer, I wrote about many exciting festivals and events taking place locally. All encouraging you to make memories with your loved ones and to support our shops, eateries and leisure businesses.

This month, I am highlighting the successes of the new office spaces in Chesterfield town centre. Developments like these are bringing hundreds of new jobs to the heart of our town. Exactly what we need to increase the footfall from Monday to Friday.

The new offices are proving popular – thanks to their attractive location, as well as being energy efficient. In less than a year after its opening, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is now more than 80% full. Meanwhile, several more firms have expressed a strong interest in One Waterside Place, following the two floors that have already been snapped up.

Furthermore, it’s fantastic to see a full refurbishment now completed at The HQ. What used to be the Royal Mail offices – set adjacent to Queen’s Park – has been transformed into an exciting hub for businesses to thrive.

Quality office spaces continue to be promoted by Destination Chesterfield, with the next marketing campaign underway, targeting firms looking to relocate and grow. I’m pleased to say that almost 3,000 enquiries have been made over the past five years for business premises, keeping Chesterfield Borough Council’s economic development team very busy!

Businesses certainly see strong benefits to investing and growing in Chesterfield, with over 3,000 enterprises now operating here.

But we won’t stop there. It is Chesterfield’s aim to attract a further 100 higher value businesses by 2030, generating more higher wage jobs for local people. This will be complemented by new educational facilities in Staveley, giving people the chance to learn advanced skills in sectors such as construction and rail.

Looking ahead to October, the Chesterfield Investment Summit is a key annual event that allows us to showcase our strengths to inward investors and growing businesses. Returning to Casa Hotel on Wednesday 18^th October, it will highlight the wide range of regeneration taking place across our area, whilst explaining the benefits of locating your business here.

This year’s event will focus on quality and sustainable housing, the Gateway at PEAK – which will be an exciting new visitor destination, and the latest progress on Chesterfield town centre’s upcoming £20 million transformation… I’ll be writing more about that in the next post!

As we look towards the future, I have no doubt that Chesterfield will continue to build on its strong foundations and thrive as a top destination for visitors and investors.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Development, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield blog, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield regeneration, Destination Chesterfield, Office Space in Chesterfield, peter swallow

‘We want to continue our collaboration to achieve Chesterfield’s ambitious plans’

18th May 2023

Destination Chesterfield Manager, Dom Stevens highlights how partnerships in both the public and private sectors continue to push forward the town’s extensive range of regeneration projects.

I have spent this week at UKREiiF – the largest real estate and investment event in the UK, attracting over 6000 delegates from the public and private sectors.

Team Chesterfield went to the event to share our ambitious new growth strategy with the property sector.

It has been a busy week of meetings and events, discussing the opportunities in Chesterfield and raising awareness of the Borough. The true success will be known in the coming months and years, as we develop relationships alongside the continued progression of £2 billion worth of regeneration projects.

One of the strands of the Chesterfield place story is creating connections. People tend to think of this as being about our excellent transport links, our supply chain, and our location next to the Peak District.

It is much more than just that!

Throughout history, Chesterfield has built positive relationships to bring forward growth and investment. We have a clear growth strategy, projects to deliver those ambitions and want to continue collaboration to achieve these ambitious plans.

On Tuesday, Dr. Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council highlighted these ambitions, alongside the importance of strategic thinking and collaboration at a packed panel discussion in the Harworth Pavillion.

Later that day, Joe Battye, Director of Economy and Regeneration at Derbyshire County Council delivered a case study about the Staveley Growth Corridor, highlighting the role of two local authorities and the private sector to bring forward community-changing regeneration.

Members of our Chesterfield Property and Construction Group came together to launch our new investment prospectus, and it was brilliant to catch up with so many of them over the week.

You can view the prospectus here.

It was also great to see Chesterfield highlighted in the Midlands Engineering Portfolio. The document included the transformation of our historic town centre, the £340 million Chesterfield Waterside scheme, and the forward-thinking masterplan for Chesterfield station.

A collective voice for the region is a huge opportunity that could be brought about by devolution in the East Midlands. A joint event organised by D2N2 LEP, Marketing Derby, Invest in Nottingham, and ourselves explored the opportunities.

Will Morlidge, Chief Executive of D2N2 LEP highlighted that the deal would ‘move Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire into the Premier League.’ Meanwhile, Andy Dabbs, Chair of Chesterfield Property Group said the deal needs to embrace public and private sector collaboration, and pool expertise and resources to underpin long-term plans. He added: “It’s a real opportunity to change the perception of our region.”

Chesterfield has a strong heritage of being inventive and delivering innovative approaches. From the first disposable nappies and the drills that made the Channel Tunnel, to being the proud home of railway innovator, George Stephenson!

On Thursday, it was brilliant to hear Tarah Gear from Milligan, highlighting another innovative project in Chesterfield – The Gateway at Peak.

The project is a pioneer in supporting the Peak District National Park and Chesterfield, in terms of the environment and social inclusion. It was particularly exciting to hear that brands which have already signed up are changing their approaches, to fit with the ethos of this exciting development.

As Tarah told the panel, they want this development to have ‘a lasting legacy’ and be the ‘ancestor’ that future generations respect.

In an increasingly noisy marketplace, ‘Team Chesterfield’ has articulated why our area is a wonderful place to live and work. However, don’t just take our word for it! As The Spectator reported this week, ‘A new property powerhouse is emerging’ in North Derbyshire.

Thank you to the dedicated and driven partners who continue to work with us and support Destination Chesterfield in raising the profile of the town. Keep a look out for the Chesterfield Investment Summit which returns this October. Once again, the event promises to provide several exciting updates on Chesterfield’s vast regeneration opportunities.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield blog, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield collaboration, chesterfield developments, Chesterfield regeneration, Destination Chesterfield, Dom Stevens, Property and Construction in Chesterfield, UKREiiF

“Together we can all help bring about lasting change and prosperity to the town”

3rd April 2023

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow is calling on everyone associated with Chesterfield to ‘talk up the town’ and collaborate further to ensure the local economy continues to thrive in the future.

I’ve said it before and I will say it again, we ALL need to talk up the town.

There is more than £2 billion of investment in progress and on the way across our borough to help ensure that we all have a bright future ahead of us. The lasting and far reaching change we are striving for in Chesterfield cannot be done by one organisation alone; it must be a collaborative effort.

We all have a role and responsibility to tell people about the many great reasons they should live, work, invest and stay here.

Chesterfield’s geographical position within the UK is hard to beat. We are centrally located with excellent road and rail links and a number of major airports within a 90 minute drive.

Furthermore, the benefits of our proximity to the Peak District National Park should not be underestimated. Chesterfield is the gateway to this wonderful landscape, and it attracts millions of visitors each year – with around half of them staying overnight and many of them passing through the town to get to the Peak District.

Herein lies our challenge. By talking up the town to friends, relatives, colleagues and suppliers from outside the area, we can attract more people to visit and stay overnight in Chesterfield rather than just passing through, the result being more revenue for the town as a whole.

Increasing the visitor economy of the town by 20% is one of the key targets in the Chesterfield Growth Strategy which has been launched by Chesterfield Borough Council.

By increasing the visitor economy, we will also help create jobs for local people and opportunities for existing and new businesses.

We must all shout about what the town has to offer to holiday makers visiting the Peak District.

Living and working in the town on a daily basis, we can often become complacent about what it has to offer visitors to the area.

We have a variety of places to stay, including the award-winning Casa Hotel, as well as great road, rail and bus links into the Peak District. You can even cycle from the town into the Peak District.

Beyond our world famous Crooked Spire Church and the Brampton Mile, we have two theatres, Chesterfield FC, historic market, restaurants, bars, cafes, boutique shops, live music venues, Queen’s Park – which is host to many wonderful events like the cricket and concerts in summer… I could go on, the list of reasons to visit and stay in Chesterfield are endless.

Having a thriving local economy is key to developing conversations with national investors and ensuring Chesterfield continues to grow and develop. If we want to see the town thrive in an increasingly competitive market, we need to do more collectively. We must champion Chesterfield outside the area in order to help us bring investment into the borough and create highly skilled jobs.

Together we can all help bring about lasting change and prosperity to the town which will benefit local people now and future generations.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Championing Chesterfield, Chesterfield blog, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Destination Chesterfield, Invest in Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, peter swallow

Property & construction firms shout louder about investment opportunities in Chesterfield

9th March 2023

There’s so much to be shouting about across our town. A range of investment opportunities in Chesterfield are now available, with a pipeline of regeneration worth approximately £2 billion on the way.

That message was conveyed to Chesterfield’s business community at the recent Celebrate Chesterfield business conference at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

At the event, business leaders encouraged delegates to help shout about the success of Chesterfield as a collective.

Find out more in the video below, which includes Chesterfield Property and Construction Group member, Andrew Byrne – Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group.

To that end, we’ve been taking a look at how businesses in Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group are working in collaboration to promote our area externally.

The group has already created strong links between private and public sector organisations in the town. This collaboration encourages further growth and collaboration in areas such as skills, sustainability and investment opportunities.

Find out from our group members how they have been flying the flag for Chesterfield across their sector and beyond:

Lomas and Mitchell Architects

Chesterfield’s Lomas & Mitchell Architects co-founded the successful Property and Construction Group. Additionally, the company is a champion of sustainable development in the town.

Jillian Mitchell, co-owner of Lomas & Mitchell commented:

“Being involved with the Construction and Property Forum enables me to keep in touch with our industry at a local level.

“By working closely with the steering group, I keep up with local developments and find out about companies in our region who, like us, are passionate about sustainability and quality.

“The airing of one of our projects on Channel 4’s Grand Designs gave us an opportunity to market our practice. As part of this, we were able to include Chesterfield and the Forum in our promotions.”

Whittam Cox Architects

Whittam Cox Architects plays a crucial role in promoting Chesterfield externally and putting the town on the map as a great place to invest.

The company has helped to showcase investment opportunities in Chesterfield by supporting the establishment of the Property and Construction Group.

By encouraging a collective understanding of the significant opportunities in Chesterfield, Whittam Cox raises awareness within the group through social media and in-person events.

Andrew Dabbs chairs the Property and Construction Group in addition to his role as board director at Whittam Cox. Working alongside colleagues, he invests a significant amount of personal time in coordinating group activities.

As a result, there is an increasing interest from companies within and outside the town. The group’s efforts have led to the establishment of some well-received events. Examples of this include local netWalking and Women in Property events, which provide a platform for networking and collaboration.

Whittam Cox Architects also uses its investment in events such as MIPIM and UKREiiF to promote the town externally. By participating in these industry events, the company can showcase the value of Chesterfield’s location to a broader audience.

Andrew commented:

“As a nationally recognised practice, the company’s HQ in the town draws the spotlight to this great location.

“Whittam Cox Architects believes that promoting the town is a collective responsibility for all companies where possible. By doing so, the company is helping to put Chesterfield on the map as a great place to invest.”

BSP Consulting

BSP joined Chesterfield Champions to support the town a key public realm project in the town alongside partners.

The project involved improvement works to the whole length of Elder Way. Enhancements to the junctions with Saltergate and Knifesmithgate have also been made, as part of the Northern Gateway regeneration scheme.

BSP worked alongside Danaher & Walsh, which was appointed by Chesterfield Borough Council to carry out the works.

BSP’s business development manager Carrie Booth said:

“Having attended an event in Chesterfield recently and learnt more about the exciting developments and opportunities in the town, we are delighted to be joining Chesterfield Champions.

“It will give BSP the chance to support developments in Chesterfield and the surrounding area and be a part of the future of the town.”

FI Real Estate Management

FI Real Estate Management has invested significantly in Chesterfield since 2019. The company has upgraded Rowland Hill House (The HQ) to Grade A office space with a £2m refurbishment programme.

A spokesperson for the company said:

“The HQ presents businesses with an opportunity to benefit from bespoke office facilities for their teams, suited to their specific needs and requirements.

“It reflects the work we are doing to progress Chesterfield’s business offering in line with nearby cities, without compromising on the down-to-earth business style the market town is known for.

“Opportunities like The HQ attract more businesses and further investment to the area. This enriches the working lives of the local community.”

Bolsterstone Group PLC

Bolsterstone Group is working hard with Chesterfield Borough Council to bring forward the Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme, which is a 40-acre scheme that will deliver £350m of investment to the town.

The current phases include 174 new houses, nearing completion. At Basin Square, the firm has just completed the 36,000 sq. ft Grade A office building. This development has already seen major success, with two of the floors already let.

Tom Swallow, Development Manager at Bolsterstone Group, commented:

“The aim of this high-quality building is to provide larger floor plates to attract inward investment. Additionally, it will take advantage of the proximity of both Chesterfield Train Station and Chesterfield town centre.

“The next phase will see a hotel, multi-storey car park and urban housing in the form of build-to-rent apartments.

“All of these seek to provide a quality offer which puts Chesterfield on the map. This draws new residents and businesses into the town and will create a new, sustainable high-quality community”

To find out more about the range of investment opportunities in Chesterfield, along with the benefits of locating your business in the town, view our investment map here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Championing Chesterfield, Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield business collaboration, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield Property and construction group, Love Chesterfield, Supporting Chesterfield development

Fall in love with Chesterfield this Valentine’s Day

3rd February 2023

This Valentine’s Day, we’ve been asking our town’s Chesterfield Champions about what has made them fall in love with the town.

After all, there is so much to be smitten with in Chesterfield… The historic town centre, gorgeous green spaces and a bustling independent food & drink scene just to name a few.

Find out below about some of the brilliant gems we have on our doorstep. You may just find a great date idea for Valentine’s Day along the way!

For comprehensive local guides on gifts, food & drink, and romantic getaways across the town go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/valentines-day-in-chesterfield/

Kerry Ganly – Penguin PR

“With its contemporary but comfy feel, you can’t beat a night at Casa for a special treat. Huge, squishy beds, elegant décor, efficient and friendly staff – and the most spectacular cocktails served from Barca Bar. Casa is a gem of a place to visit in Chesterfield.”

Find out more about Penguin PR.

Jane Houghton – Global Brands Ltd.

“My own perfect piece of Chesterfield is our allotment on Hady Hill allotments. It is a community of over 35 people, on 25 allotments, who share this fabulous piece of earth just at the bottom of Hady Hill.

“We share seeds, plants, crops and our knowledge. When we have a glut of crops we can supply our local foodbank. We also work together in work parties to improve both the allotment communal areas but also the surrounding area around Spital by litter picking, tidying up the hedge lines and even scraping the decaying leaves off the road to add to our compost!

“The place gives us all space, sanctuary, peace and a feeling of belonging to a group with similar goals. Great for mental and physical health too.”

Find out more about Global Brands Ltd.

Daniel Jones – Derbyshire Voluntary Action

“Step 5 minutes away from the friendly streets of our town and villages and you are greeted by beautiful countryside and parks all around us.

“Walking in nature is just fantastic medicine for the soul, and I have countless memories of walking through woodland trails, and fields with my son and daughter, or just for some quiet time on my own to reflect.

“My favourite spot is undoubtedly the Chesterfield Canal, and the walks around it, from Tapton Lock, all the way out to the Hollingwood Hub and beyond. It’s definitely a secret gem of our town that keeps growing thanks to the fantastic work of volunteers in Chesterfield.”

Find out more about Derbyshire Voluntary Action.

James Pogson – Northern Tea Merchants

“My favourite place in Chesterfield is the Tickled Trout Pub and Restaurant in Barlow. I visit whenever I can, and love the standard of the décor, the kindness and professional attitude of the staff and the consistently excellent meals and desserts.

“Chris Mapp, the owner, has worked and worked and worked to keep his restaurant at the top of Chesterfield’s best restaurants, and his efforts continue to pay off.

“Whether its for a Sunday lunch, a takeaway Pizza, a family gathering in the upstairs function room, the Trout never fails to please me, and I am sure that this is the case for many local people.”

Find out more about Northern Tea Merchants.

Amelia Bacon – CMP Legal

“I enjoy living in Chesterfield mainly for its location, being in such close proximity to the beautiful Peak District. A short drive can lead you to the heart of the countryside where I spend many weekends going on long walks and enjoying a good pub lunch!

“Chesterfield also has some great locations for running such as the Chesterfield Canal. It is where I did most of my training for the London Marathon last year!”

Find out more about CMP Legal.

Luke Brailsford – DBC Training

“My favourite place to visit in Chesterfield has to be the market. The authentic traditional vibe, hustle and bustle and variety is always intriguing and inviting.”

Find out more about DBC Training.

Josh Hodgkinson – Matlock Farm Park

“I personally love visiting Hardwick Hall. Whether you’re visiting for the history of the buildings, the walks through the estate, or to have a leisurely stroll through the gardens, there’s something for everyone!”

Find out more about Matlock Farm Park.

Clare Talati – DEBP

“With our base in Chesterfield, we often have catch-ups locally and it is great to try out new places and support local businesses. We had our Christmas Party at The Galleon Steak House and have met at Sorbo Lounge, Dunston Hall Garden Centre, The Peacock Cutthorpe, and The Vintage Tea Rooms, to name but a few.

“We have also held a team quiz at The Woodside and had team walks at Holmebrook Valley Park and Linacre Reservoirs.”

Find out more about DEBP.

Jack Smith – Apprentice Team

“For a breath of fresh air, the Chesterfield Canal has always been one of my favourite spots. Such abundant wildlife so close to the town centre is a nice break from the hustle and bustle.

“For food and drink, I always love a night in Einsteins. The drinks are so unique, and the food is always top-notch. Though, the best thing about it is always the atmosphere.”

Find out more about Apprentice Team.

Nigel Mallender – Addooco IT

“I love Queen’s Park, the home of Chesterfield Cricket Club where I am Chairman. Our historic Club is at the heart of the community and we’re incredibly proud to carry the town name.

“We work closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire County Cricket Club each year to stage the hugely successful Festival of Cricket, which brings so many visitors to our town.”

Find out more about Addooco IT.

Will Moroney – Lightmain Company Ltd.

“A favourite place of mine to visit is Linacre Reservoir. A relatively short walk from home, there’s nothing better than being there at the start of the day as the sun begins to rise over the Town Centre.

“There are a growing number of good eateries that we look to support as much as possible around the area too… The Hunloke Arms at Wingerworth being a particular favourite.”

Find out more about Lightmain Company Ltd.

Jane Taylor – Dronfield Wine World

“I love cycling along the canal from Tapton Lock out to Rother Valley Park. It’s safe and there is a lot to see on the canalside.

“There are some fabulous cafes in the town where I like to meet up with friends or for a business meeting. In the evening there are some excellent bars and restaurants when we want to go for a night out.”

Find out more about Dronfield Wine World.

Will Sissons – Itrack GPS Trackers

“Queens Park is always a great place to take the kids, especially during the summer months. There is always something happening to keep them entertained!

“Queens Park is a lovely open space that the town can be proud of. I also play football on the 3G pitch with friends every week – another brilliant facility.”

Find out more about Itrack GPS Trackers.

Chris Dwan – Woodall Homes

“I really enjoy the bars and eateries in the Chatsworth Road area of town. The area offers the benefit of the green hills and edge of Peak District backdrop as you move from place to place. I always see the gateway to the Peak District aspect of Chesterfield as being one of its key strengths.

“I always find the atmosphere along Chatsworth Road, like throughout all parts of Chesterfield, as very welcoming and good humoured.”

Find out more about Woodall Homes.

Mel Archbould – Cloud-Busting

“If I have a few hours to pass, I love to walk down Chatsworth Road into the Town Centre to stock up on fresh fruit and veg from the historic Victorian market, take a slow walk round the Crooked Spire – The Parish Church of St Marys and All Saints, which is overflowing with history, beauty, and peacefulness; back through Queens Park, another Victorian town highlight, treating myself to a delicious ice cream from the Gelataria, Fredericks in the park.

“Just about 10,000 steps, lots of fresh air and supporting the local economy. Perfect!”

Find out more about Cloud-Busting.

Hollie Walters – Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa

“There are many great places to visit in and around Chesterfield. The Linacre Reservoir is beautiful, and the walks are extremely picturesque. Bolsover Castle is stunning and the views over Bolsover are amazing, and not to forget Barrow Hill Roundhouse, which is a key heritage site and part of the rich industrial history of the area… A real hidden gem in Chesterfield.”

Find out more about Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa.

James Taylor – Roaring Mouse Public Relations

“Real Time Live is one of my favourite places to visit in Chesterfield. I love live music and that venue is a fantastic place to enjoy a gig.

“Odyssey is my favourite food place right now, mostly because of the Gyros. I’m also addicted to grilled cheese sandwiches from Society on Stephenson Place.”

Find out more about Roaring Mouse Public Relations.

Charlotte James – DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park

“I love exploring the parks and open green spaces around Chesterfield, especially with my Dog. There’s lots of great places for dog walks both long and short.

“Experiencing the local wildlife, seeing the different wild flowers bloom throughout the year, and exploring the open green spaces for Otis to run around!”

Find out more about DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park.

Paul Chapman – S40 Local Magazine

“Linacre Reservoirs – this place has to be my go to escape.

“The seasons make this place magical, a walk in the Spring as the Bluebells spread like a carpet, bone dry Summer trails linking me to the Peak District as I head out on a mountain bike ride, the Autumn colours reflecting on the still waters or the test that snow and ice presents as I take time out in the Winter months.

“You just can’t beat the place.”

Find out more about S40 Local Magazine.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield blog, chesterfield business news, Love Chesterfield, Places to visit in Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield, Valentines Day, Valentines Day in Chesterfield

“Having a ready and skilled workforce will help us attract new investment to the area”

10th November 2022

Destination Chesterfield Chair Peter Swallow has penned his views on the success of the recent Love Chesterfield Awards and looks ahead to the innovative MADE in Chesterfield campaign, which helps engage young people with manufacturing, engineering, property and construction businesses.

As chair of Destination Chesterfield, I was honoured to attend of the Love Chesterfield Awards recently. As I looked around the packed room at the Winding Wheel, I felt very proud to be part of the town.

I saw passion, enthusiasm and dedication from the owners, employees, family and friends of the 34 businesses represented there on the night. All the businesses were independently owned and many of them operate on the high street. Through these businesses and the investment being made in the town, I am confident we are creating a town centre that will meet the needs of not only shoppers and visitors but the businesses that are based there.

The town centre of the future is one that delivers an experience, a product or service that you can’t get online or from an out-of-town retail park or shopping centre. Independents are critical to this vision. It is not only their products and services that people visit them for, but also their warm welcome, knowledge and customer service.

The town has a long and proud tradition of independent businesses that starts with our market – described by Cllr Kate Sarvent at the awards as ‘the beating heart of Chesterfield’. It may have its origins in the 13th century, but the market is as important to our future as it is to our past, proven by Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambitious plans to develop the spaces within the market.

Internet shopping has been a large factor in this as have our increasingly busy lives. However, Chesterfield has all the raw ingredients to create a thriving town centre of the future – a multi-functional social centre. They are about enjoyment, creativity, learning, socialising, culture, health and wellbeing and democratic engagement – a ‘21st century agora’ where people engage in the life of their locality. Independent businesses are key to this, as are event spaces and town centre living.

Through annual campaigns like Love Chesterfield and the town’s manufacturing and engineering sector celebration – Made in Chesterfield, which takes place this month, we aim not only to celebrate the sectors but also raise awareness of the plethora of careers and opportunity available in them to young people. They are the future skilled workers of these sectors and key to the businesses already here thriving but, having a ready and skilled workforce will help us attract new investment to the area. Likewise, we must also ensure we create the environment that young people want to live and grow their career. Investment is happening throughout the borough to ensure this.

£26million alone is being spent enhancing the town centre. Work has begun on improvements to the Market Place, New Square, Corporation Street, Rykneld Square and Burlington Street.

Together with the major refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall on Corporation Street and the reimaging of the market and market squares we will have a town centre that delivers on every level and, importantly, for everybody. Young people in particular I hope, will see a future for themselves on the high street as both shoppers, visitors and entrepreneurs.

The £26million project is aptly named Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield’. Looking around the room at the Love Chesterfield Awards – seeing both the winners and finalists, I can say with confidence that Chesterfield’s town centre has a very strong heartbeat already.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield blog, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield Skills, Destination Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield Awards, peter swallow