Chesterfield Champions highlight our town’s biggest successes in 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, Chesterfield is reflecting on another productive year for the town.
The last 12 months has seen work progress on the transformation of our town centres in Chesterfield and Staveley, the restoration of our historic canal, and the Markham Vale scheme which celebrated it’s 20th anniversary.
Another huge boost was the confirmation of the £160m East Midlands Investment Zone scheme, which will support advanced manufacturing and green industries, including at the former Hartington Colliery site.
With further ambitions for growth in 2025, the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have shared with us their biggest successes from the past 12 months.
Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader, Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair, Destination Chesterfield
“It has been an incredibly busy year in Chesterfield, as well as delivering our day to day services that many of our residents rely on, work on the revitalisation of our town centres in both Chesterfield and Staveley has begun, we’ve invested in helping residents develop the skills they need, provided grants to community groups, hosted museum exhibitions across the borough, launched a new public art project that will create new artworks and activities for people to enjoy and together with our partners we’ve seen significant progress towards delivering the Staveley Town Deal programme.
“Heading into 2025 there is lots to look forward to, with our key regeneration projects set to complete we want to ensure that everyone can benefit from a growing economy to see real improvements in their day to day lives.”
Scott Knowles, CEO, East Midlands Chamber and Destination Chesterfield Board Member
“The progress of the significant volume of economic regeneration projects across Chesterfield Borough towns has been significant across 2024. The tangible impact these are making on our towns is starting to gain momentum which creates greater opportunities for 2025 and beyond.”
Nick Catt, Managing Director, Weightron Bilanciai and Destination Chesterfield Board Member
“Over the past year, Chesterfield’s biggest success has been the continuation of the regeneration of the town centre, particularly the transformation of the Market Hall area that will be completed at the start of the new year and the improved retail and leisure spaces.
“Looking ahead to 2025, I’m most optimistic about the continued growth of both the local economy and the quality of life for residents with both new industrial and residential plans moving forward at the former Staveley Chemicals site and hopefully the start of the Staveley bypass road.”
Dominic Staniforth, Partner at BHP LLP and Destination Chesterfield Board Member
“From the football club gaining promotion back into the English Football League, to the town hosting the Walking World Cup and being awarded £20m as part of the Long-Term Plan for Towns deal, it’s been a great year for Chesterfield.
“Looking forward, it has been really positive to see the success of the events taking place in the market square, and we are excited about the completion of the refurbishment there and further positive developments across Chesterfield in 2025 and beyond.”
Jessica Risorto, Director, Redbrik Estate Agents
“This year saw 200 more runners participate in the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, reflecting the event’s growing popularity and community engagement. Additionally, Chesterfield’s housing market has continued to stabilise indicating a steady and resilient local economy.
“For 2025, with interest rates reducing we hope to see first time buyers and aspirational upsizers back in the market. We’re also looking forward to the completion of the market square driving residents back into the town centre.”
Kevin Walker, Owner, Black Swan Cyber
“Chesterfield’s biggest success of the past year undoubtedly lies in the return of Chesterfield FC to the EFL. This momentous achievement has re-ignited passion and pride within the town. Looking at 2025, we’re optimistic about our future business plans and getting more involved with Destination Chesterfield events.
“We also excited about the revitalisation of the town centre, including the Market Place and Stephenson Memorial Hall.
Anna Melton, Director, in the Works PR
“2024 marked 13 years of being part of the Chesterfield business community for In the Works PR. Reflecting on these years it’s amazing to see the progress the town continues to make – Elder Way and Waterside, to name just two developments.
“Looking to 2025, we’re excited to launch our new PR and social media training programmes, which are designed to help members of Chesterfield’s thriving start up and small business community achieve the recognition they deserve.”
Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask
“I think the positivity that came from Chesterfield FC being promoted back into the EFL shouldn’t be underestimated! Following 6 years in the National League, this was a huge achievement. The club is pulling in a good crowd each week and hopefully they will continue to build on their progress this season.
“In terms of what I’m most optimistic about for 2025, the good thing is there seems to be plenty happening across Chesterfield, so lots to choose from. Personally, I am really looking forward to seeing the RHOC project continue to progress on site. The works to the Market Quarter are already looking fantastic!”
Natalie Burkinshaw, Director, Crush Design
“Reflecting on the almost 20 years that Crush has been in Chesterfield, the biggest thing that stands out is just how much has been achieved in putting our town on the map. This year, we’ve noticed our clients and connections becoming increasingly familiar with Chesterfield, and all the opportunities to be found within it!
“Whilst 2024 has been another year of new creative projects and wins for our team, as we move into 2025, our 22nd year of business, we look forward to Chesterfield’s increasing reputation as a home to independent business success.”
Daniel Rich, General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel
“Chesterfield’s biggest success this year was the spectacular success of the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival, which drew record crowds and showcased local talent.
“Looking ahead to 2025, I’m optimistic about the town’s ongoing transformation, including the exciting Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, which will further enhance its appeal. We’re proud to support a community that’s growing as a top destination for events, tourism, and business.”
Laura Jo Owen, Owner, Adorn Jewellers
“2024 was an exciting year for Chesterfield, securing a £20m government investment and launching our independent Town Board. It was wonderful to hear from people in the public consultation. We have a strong community, it’s great to see the love and support that Chesterfield receives.
“Next year, I’m looking forward to seeing continued progress on our beautiful new market place. I’m excited to see the project taking shape during 2025.”
Rod Auton, Secretary, Chesterfield Canal Trust
“Our new 38m long bridge at Staveley has already proved to be a tourist attraction. 2025 will see us restoring a length of canal under it, including a new lock, a new bridge, beautiful wildlife-friendly landscaping and 2km of new towpath all the way to Renishaw.
“Meanwhile, Derbyshire County Council’s new Moorings building at Staveley Town Basin, including a café, will open in the spring.”
Claire Shaw, Director of Care, Ashgate Hospice
“As we continue to navigate funding pressures, worsened by the cost-of-living crisis, our staff and volunteers have gone above and beyond to support families living with a life-limiting or incurable illness in North Derbyshire.
“This year, we were absolutely blown away by the number of people who turned out for our Sparkle Night Walk—it was our biggest and best event yet! “We’re so grateful to every single walker who joined us and to our amazing community for helping raise over £340,000.
“With Sparkle marking its 10th anniversary in 2025, we’re hopeful that the Chesterfield community will once again rally behind us to ensure we can continue to be there for those who need us most.”
Philip Dalton, Owner, Dalton Roofing
“The real success for chesterfield is the continued progression of our business community working together and building relationships.
“I hope that we can continue to put chesterfield on the map as a thriving town to visit for visitors to enjoy and a gateway to the peak district. You can see from the Chesterfield Investment Summit the passion and support local business have, here at Dalton Roofing.”
Sian Spencer Bray, Clinical Director & Lead Psychotherapist, Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic
“It has been great to see so many new businesses opening in the area, particularly in retail and hospitality. This shows that Chesterfield is an attractive environment for investment and has enhanced the town’s appeal to residents and visitors alike, fostering community engagement and tourism.
“It would be great to see this continue into 2025 as it indicates a thriving local economy.”
Mike Jones, Owner, Mike Jones Photography
A significant trend this year has been the conversion of commercial properties into residential spaces. Notably, 87 New Square and Burlington House have been transformed into modern, comfortable living spaces. These conversions have not only provided much-needed housing but also revitalised these historic buildings, preserving their charm while adapting them for contemporary use.
“I cannot wait to see the transformation of the Market Place and New Square to complement these changes.”
Jenna Stevens, Content Creator, Pure Awards
“One of the best things for Chesterfield in 2024 has been the business expos. It’s great to have so many amazing opportunities to network, connect with other businesses, and build meaningful relationships, right on our doorstep.”
Mike Norton, Owner and Co-Founder, Hogg Norton
“One of the great successes of 2024 has been the investment into the rejuvenation of Chesterfield’s historic Market Square. We are looking forward to the completion of this in 2025 which will showcase the town.
“As a local business producing award winning Fruit Liqueurs we’ve had a successful 2024 and look forward to continuing this growth by having more local businesses stock our products while also supporting local businesses into 2025.”
Kerry Bentley, Managing Director, DBC Training
“As a business we are growing, and we see Chesterfield as a key part of our growth plans. The investment in our new premises support this, offering more learning space for us to deliver high-quality employment and skills training courses in Chesterfield.”
Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director, Pinewood Properties
“As we reflect on 2024, I believe Chesterfield’s biggest success has been the repurposing of derelict buildings and renovation of historical landmarks. Restoration projects such as The Pomegranate Theatre , Market Place, Burlington House, and The Court House are shining examples of this.
“I’m optimistic that this momentum will continue into 2025, breathing new life into our town’s heritage and enhancing its charm. I’m excited seeing more innovative projects that showcase Chesterfield’s rich history and character.”
Catherine Wenborn, Managing Director, Vines Legal Ltd.
“It is great to see ongoing re development of empty premises by a wide variety of different businesses offering employment and leisure opportunities for the people of Chesterfield.
“At Vines Legal we are proud to be a part of the business community and contribute to the local economy.”
Paul Chapman, Editor, S40 Local
I’m thrilled by the way Chesterfield embraces change, whilst many towns of our size appear to be really struggling Chesterfield actively secures funding that brings new jobs and skills into the area.
The town centre will see significant change over the next few years, and I feel that we are geared up for the challenge and well placed to capitalise on our physical location and strength of community.
Charlotte Marshall, Director, FWD Motion
“Chesterfield is vibrant and exciting and there is a real buzz about the place – with a growing number of new businesses, from independents and startups to larger companies expanding or moving here. Investment in the town makes it an excellent place to do business.
The town is thriving, and it is noticeable there is growing optimism within the business community here, particularly over the past year. I’m already excited about the opportunities ahead for our business, as well as for Chesterfield’s communities as a whole in 2025.”
Matt Close, Director, NeoDyne
“The Chesterfield business community welcomed NeoDyne when we set the UK office up 18 months ago, and it’s great to see it continuing to thrive. We’ve had lots of interaction with other businesses, and it’s great to hear others focusing on similar challenges, and what we can collectively do to address them. This year the commencement of the “Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield” project is making great progress, as well as the Staveley Town Deal Projects.
“It will be great to see how these develop in the coming year, and how we can encourage people to visit the new town market, Rykneld Square, and the wider area. It’s also been interesting to see how we can contribute to attracting talent to stay in the area, especially with regards to local young talent, with the likes of apprenticeships.”
Dawn Brown, Owner, Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare
“In 2024, we’ve risen stronger than ever after the devastating floods. We are rebranding to Dogland and we remain the same beloved destination for all dog owners with even better services, proudly unveiling our rebrand.
“We’re especially thrilled about the revitalised Chesterfield Market, a cornerstone of our community’s revival. This exciting transformation will welcome visitors back to Chesterfield, showcasing resilience and a vibrant new chapter for all. Together, we’re moving forward!”
Richard Sherwood, Director, Roy Peters Estates
“I was most impressed by the positive attitude of the young people we met undergoing training at the new Construction Skills Hub in Staveley. Like our own apprentice George, they questioned us, demonstrated commitment to their training paths and were a pleasure to speak to.
“It’s a great initiative and a credit to Chesterfield, Chesterfield College, Staveley Town Deal and The Devonshire Group. Well done to all concerned and looking forward to seeing these younger skilled tradespeople ready to support our industry.”
Sarah Wills, Associate Director, Nineteen47
It has been wonderful to see the economic growth in the region being supported by the delivery of quality homes for people to live.
“The delivery of the Construction Skills Hub is a triumph for the town and its partners and demonstrates the forward thinking, collaborative nature of Chesterfield. This project will support the housing growth that will be needed in the coming years to compliment the commercial inward investment into the town.”
Andrew McDaid, Partner, Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers
“As a proud Chesterfield business with a legacy spanning over 150 years, we understand the vital importance of a strong and growing local economy. During 2024 we were thrilled to work with numerous new business start-ups and the relocation of many businesses to Chesterfield.
“This is in addition to our continuing advisory services to many established businesses to achieve their growth ambitions. Our commitment to this cause drives us to continuously forge strategic partnerships with local businesses, including our fellow Chesterfield Champions.”
Georgia Severn, Head of Marketing, Custom Solar
“At Custom Solar we are amazed by the work done in Chesterfield to support the use of renewables within the local community. We’ve installed multiple rooftop Solar PV systems for local businesses and even improved our own office space, as we constructed our own solar carport canopy, energising before Christmas.
“We’re excited to watch Chesterfield thrive as an energy efficient town in 2025 as more businesses generate their own energy.”
Andrew Payne, Director, Chesterfield Estates
“In the past year, Chesterfield has seen remarkable growth and community spirit, the success of our football team. Their promotion has not only elevated our standing in the league but has also fostered a sense of pride and unity among residents. The influx of supporters to matches has boosted local businesses and invigorated community initiatives, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the town.
“Chesterfield stands to benefit significantly from the ongoing investment in our iconic market. This revitalisation will not only enhance the shopping experience for locals and visitors alike but also attract new businesses and vendors, further stimulating the local economy.”
Robert Longden, Managing Director, Central Technology
“During the past year the town has seen significant investment in new office spaces and business developments. Projects like the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre have played a crucial role in boosting the local economy, attracting new businesses and potential new employees allowing Central Technology to continue to grow.
“Looking ahead to 2025, I’m most optimistic about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project in attracting future growth and an even more vibrant and attractive place to live and visit.”
Nick Grayson, Managing Director, Pinelog Limited
“I’m really optimistic for 2025 which is in no small part down to our manufacturing facility in Chesterfield that we have invested heavily in since relocating here. Pinelog’s own customer research has shown that households will continue to prioritise their holidays, which bodes well for both our holiday parks and timber lodge manufacturing businesses.
“Our location geographically positions us well to work with holiday parks and land owners throughout the UK to capitalise on the domestic holiday market. It’s also great news for businesses locally looking to benefit from the tourism economy.”
