About Chesterfield

Next phase of Chesterfield Canal restoration project begins

Works to reinstate historic routes, boost habitats and biodiversity, and enhance local economic activity have commenced at Chesterfield Canal.

Alongside Chesterfield Canal Trust, landscape architecture practice, Influence Landscape Planning & Design, has announced the commencement of works on the next section of the Chesterfield Canal restoration project.

The works, which are taking place on a 2.6km stretch of the canal, from Staveley Basin to the south of Renishaw, Derbyshire, will revitalise the historic canal for people to enjoy and for nature to thrive.

Funded in part by the Staveley Town Deal, these works will see the reconstruction of up to 850 metres of canal channel, the construction of two new bridges – including a bridleway bridge to carry the Trans Pennine Trail over the canal – a new lock, and the enhancement of footpaths and cycleways.

Following planning permission in 2021, on behalf of Chesterfield Canal Trust, Influence Landscape Planning & Design was appointed to produce a landscape masterplan for the project, which led to detailed landscape plans and a Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP). Working alongside Peak Ecology and Rodgers Leask Consulting Engineers, the team successfully discharged the planning conditions related to the works.

The design features of the landscape plan include attractive seating areas, viewing points, areas for families to play, information boards and clear wayfinding – as the scheme is integrated with the surrounding network of public rights of way.

The landscape proposal includes native tree and shrub planting, areas of wildflower meadow, and aquatic planting along the length of the canal, creating a picturesque backdrop and a robust habitat for wildlife.

Since restoration began in 1989, 12 miles of the Chesterfield Canal have been restored, alongside 37 locks, 11 bridges, and two marinas. The most recent sections completed include Staveley Basin in 2012 and Hartington Harbour in 2018.

This phase of construction works is being delivered by midlands-based O’Brien Contractors, who are leading the first phase of this 18-month project, which includes major groundworks to clear the canal route and the landscaping. Following this, the abutments for the new Trans Pennine Trail bridge will be constructed, and by October, the 38-meter-long structure will be installed.

CGI animation of new trans pennine trail bridge

CGI image of new Trans Pennine Trail bridge – provided by Beaver Bridges

Subsequent phases will see the reinstatement of the canal length, a new lock, another accommodation bridge at the bottom of Bellhouse Lane, a pumping system, and the creation of Bellhouse Basin. The towpath will be upgraded to a multi-user trail, extending across the Doe Lea Valley to Renishaw. This restoration project not only enhances outdoor spaces and creates new leisure infrastructure, but it is also expected to increase visitors to the Staveley area by 20%, boosting local economic activity.

George Rogers, Development Manager at Chesterfield Canal Trust, said: “This project represents a major advance in the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal, as we move out of Staveley and into the Doe Lea valley. Moving into a more rural environment, it was really important to us that we gave proper consideration to the landscaping and to ensure that the restoration has a positive impact upon its surroundings for both wildlife and the community.

“Working with Influence and Peak Ecology on these plans has been enlightening and rewarding, and we are excited to see the new landscape maturing over time and the local community being better able to access this wonderful corner of Derbyshire.”

Kathryn Dunk, Principal Landscape Architect at Influence Landscape Planning & Design, said: “It’s been such a pleasure to be involved in a project that marries engineering heritage with new public spaces for all to enjoy, and importantly, this scheme gave us the opportunity to reinstate and enhance native planting to create new habitats for wildlife.

“It’s fantastic to see these former canal routes coming back to life and the historic importance of this site is truly fascinating. The team and I look forward to seeing people spending leisure time on the newly restored pathways and on the water.”

Find out more about the regeneration projects currently taking place in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Chesterfield Canal Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

A large digger operating on a building site

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New owners take on Chesterfield Italian restaurant with almost 50-year history

A Chesterfield Italian restaurant which dates back to the early 1970s will continue its legacy, after being taken on by new owners.

Lambarellis, based on Chatsworth Road was the first Italian delicatessen and pizza takeaway in chesterfield, and has been serving customers in the town since 1976.

The original owner, Michele Lambarelli then expanded the business in 1982 adding a restaurant to the existing offer.

Since then Michelle passed down his beloved recipes to his daughter Teresa, who went on to set up her own business from home making high-quality pasta sauces.

Lambarellis pasta sauces and products on display

Teresa then took over the whole business in 2011, adding pasta and prosecco evenings and continuing to grow the Lambarellis reputation. She said: “We had regular customers that become friends over the years, which made our business feel like a home.”

Now, Teresa has decided to take a step back from the business, selling it to a top Italian chef and his family from Sardinia. The new owners, Nico, Marina Giorgiana, Giulia , Mattia are now the proud owners of La Dolce Vita Lambarellis. Teresa added: “I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect family to carry on Lambarellis tradition. We wish Nico and his family all the very best and know it has been left in the best hands.”

New owner Nico commented: “I’m beyond excited and would like to assure customers old and new that we will continue delivering top quality Italian food & service. All our food is made with passion and from the heart. It’s an honour to carry on the Lambarellis name and make the family proud for many years to come.

“We’ll be extending the menu with even more Italian classics, adapting recipes to to my expertise – having lived in Sardinia 15 years.”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “It’s fantastic to see one of Chesterfield’s longest-running restaurants continuing to build its legacy.

“We wish the new owners every success in continuing the Lambarellis tradition, part of our town’s exciting food and drink scene.”

Discover Chesterfield’s fabulous independent food and drink businesses at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/eating-out/

Lambarellis new owners

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Discount bus travel scheme offered to Chesterfield businesses

Chesterfield businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of a scheme which offers discounted public transport for their staff.

Travel Derbyshire is supporting commuting through a Match Discount Scheme. Until March 2025, businesses with workplaces based in Derbyshire can benefit from discounts of up to 20%.

Helping employees to get to the workplace by bus is a great way to improve employee well-being and retention, as well as boosting the environmental credentials of our businesses.

Funded by UK Government through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), Derbyshire County Council is topping up the existing discount that bus companies offer to businesses, matching what is already offered.

Three companies are signed up to the scheme so far:

  • Diamond Bus
  • Stagecoach
  • trentbarton

Tickets are provided directly to the business by the Bus operator. In Chesterfield, Stagecoach is offering a 10% discount on megarider tickets, for businesses with local employees.  The product covers the urban area of Chesterfield from Hollingwood to Sheepbridge, Upper Newbold and Cutthorpe to Walton.

A 10% discount is also offered on Stagecoach Silver and Gold tickets. Silver tickets cover a wider area than central Chesterfield, including South Yorkshire and south of Chesterfield as far as Kelstedge/ClayCross and Bolsover to the West.  The Gold tickets cover all Stagecoach buses in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.

Councillor Charlotte Cupit, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer this discount on bus travel for employers so they can encourage their workforce to get the bus into work.

“We were awarded £47m to improve bus services, and this initiative is part of our plan to get more people on buses. We’ve also improved a wide range of bus services across the county.”

For more details about the scheme, go to: https://travelderbyshire.co.uk/businesses/

To find out more about business support schemes available to businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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Young photographers in Chesterfield invited to join new creative hub

Young photography enthusiasts in Chesterfield are being invited to join a dynamic community where they can explore their passion and get creative.

The Click Photography Club has announced the start of a new term, inviting photographers aged 8-16 to join a community where creativity, learning and fun come together.

Meeting every Thursday during term time from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Hall on the Green, Newbold, Chesterfield, The Click Photography Club offers a hands-on approach to learning photography. Led by experienced photographer Rob Marriott, the club is designed to be both educational and enjoyable, ensuring that every member, whether they’re using a high-end camera or a smartphone, can learn and grow.

Rob Marriott brings over 20 years of photography experience to the club, alongside six years of working with children. Fully DBS-checked and first-aid trained, Rob is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all members.

Rob commented: “Photography is a powerful way for young people to express themselves. Our club is about more than just taking pictures; it’s about fostering creativity, building confidence, and being part of a community.”

Two membership options are available for the club; with in-person and online memberships available.

The in-person membership costs £5 per session when you sign up for the term, or £6 for pay-as-you-go (must register by the morning of the session). These weekly sessions are filled with interactive lessons, creative challenges, and the opportunity to work on personal photography projects.

The online sessions cost £4, and include a PDF guide each week sent via email for those who prefer to learn from home and in their own time. In-person members have free access to all online materials.

This year, the club is focusing on providing a more structured learning experience, ensuring that each member not only learns the technical aspects of photography but also has the chance to apply their knowledge through exciting projects.

  • Project-Based Learning: Each term, members work on individual projects that allow them to apply what they’ve learned. These projects culminate in a showcase, where members can share their work with the group and celebrate their progress.
  • Recognition and Rewards: Members have the opportunity to earn certificates and badges as they reach milestones in their photography journey, adding a sense of achievement to their learning experience.
  • Exclusive Events: In addition to regular meet-ups, members can enjoy discounted photography walks, special workshops, and exclusive events featuring guest photographers and models.

Rob added: “The Click Photography Club is committed to being accessible to everyone. Whether your child is a beginner or has some experience, they’ll find a welcoming community where they can learn at their own pace. Our sessions are designed to cater to all levels of ability, and we ensure that every member feels included and valued.

“Express Yourself” is more than just a motto for us—it’s the heart of what we do. We encourage every member to use photography as a way to share their unique perspective and creativity, in a safe and supportive environment.”

To enroll your child in The Click Photography Club, email rmphotography79@gmail.com with their name, age, and preferred membership option (in-person or online).

Find out more about living and learning here in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

young people taking photo of girl posing with javelin for photography class

 

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Chesterfield Pubwatch shortlisted for national award

A local scheme that aims to provide safe drinking environments for customers and staff has been shortlisted for a national award.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been named on the shortlist for the top accolade at the National Pubwatch Awards, which will take place on 22 October at the House of Lords.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been operating for over 22 years and is run by local business owners, with support from Chesterfield Borough Council’s licensing team, Derbyshire Constabulary and other local partners with the aim of supporting a safe environment within the night-time economy.

The scheme’s award submission highlights a number of initiatives that have been rolled out across the town to help provide a safer environment for customers and staff alike – including new ways for venues, police, and the local authority to share information.

Together with Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Pubwatch has delivered an upgraded digital radio communications network across the town – allowing licensed premises to communicate effectively with each other and key stakeholders such as the Police. This system is instrumental in maintaining safety and security in the town.

Additionally, Chesterfield Pubwatch has also supported the launch of the Best Bar None scheme in the town – with 22 local businesses already being awarded the accreditation, which helps to reduce alcohol-related crime and create a safer night out.

Roger Butler, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, said: “Chesterfield is a safe place to live, visit and socialise. We’re lucky to have so many licensed venues for people to enjoy, but like towns and cities around the country, alcohol-related crime and disorder can sometimes be an issue.

“We are delighted to have been named as one of the three Pubwatch schemes on the shortlist for the national award. We’re always looking for new ways to work with local businesses and different groups to take on board any feedback they have and look at different ways we can all work together to reduce nuisance behaviour, so that everyone can enjoy a safe night out.”

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield Pubwatch continues to work tirelessly across our communities to reduce anti-social behaviour, and it is great to see that their efforts have been recognised by being shortlisted for the National Pubwatch Award.

“Chesterfield is a safe place to socialise, but the work of the Pubwatch helps to make sure everyone can feel safe when out and about.”

Planning a night out in Chesterfield? Find out more about how you can make the most of it at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/night-out/

brampton brewey pub

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Chesterfield Menagerie exhibition to celebrate our relationship with animals

A new museum exhibition coming to Chesterfield will celebrate the extraordinary relationship between humans and animals.

Chesterfield Menagerie includes a wide range of items from the Chesterfield Museum collection which show humans connections with animals. It includes a beautiful Brampton salt glaze fish flask, ‘The Plough’ a stunning painting by Joseph Syddall, a wonderful figurine of a Chicken by William Gordon and much more.

painting by local artist depicts an old ploughing method using horses

There will be fun activities and interactive elements for the whole family to enjoy including handling items, feely boxes, a sound board of animal calls, a magnetic board matching activity and animal related crafts.

The exhibition will be hosted in the Grade 2 listed Assembly Rooms above the Market Hall from Friday 13 September until Tuesday 12 October, and open from 10am to 2.30pm weekdays, and from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays. It is free to enter.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our residents and visitors to learn more about our borough’s history and see some incredible things that have been created right here. We want lots of people to come along and support this exhibition and we’ve made sure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Museum fish exhibit

In addition, there will also be a selection of free special events hosted during the exhibition.

Chester the Field Mouse will be visiting the exhibition, meeting fans and posing for pictures on Saturday 14 September from 1pm to 2.15pm.

On Saturday 21 September, Kakou will be hosting a workshop where visitors can create their own art bot. This simple robot will wobble across paper and create a unique drawing. Sessions are being held at 11am, 12pm and 1pm.

As we approach the autumn months visitors will be able to learn more about birds and bees, including how to identify bees, how birds build nests, and they will be able to build their own bird feeder to take away and hang up in their garden. Visitors will be able to take part in this activity on Saturday 28 September from 1pm to 3pm.

The exhibition is hosted in the town centre making it easily accessible by public transport and the venue also includes a lift to ensure that visitors of all abilities can access the exhibition. Further work is being undertaken to provide the exhibition materials in different formats.

The Chesterfield Menagerie exhibition is part of a programme of events and exhibitions that are being funded by Arts Council England.

It aims to ensure that whilst Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre are closed for refurbishment residents and visitors can still connect with our borough’s history and culture.

Over the next year the programme will include a series of museum exhibitions at venues across the borough and range of theatre productions at the Winding Wheel Theatre. To find out more about the programme visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/explore-chesterfield/museum/arts-council-england-programme

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SocialFuse Festival to focus on community-led regeneration in Chesterfield

A festival coming to Chesterfield next week is set to celebrate the way our communities are playing their part in the ongoing regeneration of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

The SocialFuse Festival, taking place across various venues in our town is an annual flagship event that gathers a diverse group of purpose-driven individuals, change-makers, and innovators from Derbyshire and beyond.

The festival, taking place from Tuesday 10 September  – Saturday 14 September, serves as a platform to celebrate and inspire positive social, environmental, and economic change. It is designed to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and ignite action among those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and the world.

Organiser of the festival, Ann Fomukong-Boden is director of local design consultancy, Kakou Technologies and a Destination Chesterfield Board Member.

Ann Fomukong-Boden

Speaking about what participants can expect at this year’s festival, Ann commented: “Overall, this year’s SocialFuse Festival aims to be a catalyst for positive change by inspiring, connecting, and empowering individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

“Highlighting the work of community and voluntary sectors and the people working in them is essential for recognising their contributions, inspiring further involvement, building strong networks, attracting support, influencing policy, celebrating diversity, and promoting sustainable social change. These sectors are the backbone of community resilience and well-being, and their recognition is vital for a more inclusive and supportive society.”

Several developments are currently underway across Chesterfield, and Ann believes the upcoming event provides an opportunity to highlight the impact of involving the community sector: “We are currently going through a period of regeneration – locally in Chesterfield with the town centre revitalisation plans, regionally with a new Combined Authority and Mayor, and nationally with the new government.

“By highlighting the importance of a holistic, community-led approach and showcasing successful examples, the event seeks to empower individuals, businesses, and voluntary groups to actively participate in and contribute to the regeneration of their community. Through collective efforts, Chesterfield can become a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive place that reflects the aspirations and needs of its people.”

“Regeneration requires input and collaboration between all stakeholders. The Festival wants to highlight the importance of partnerships and how different sectors can work together to achieve shared goals.

“SocialFuse isn’t just about work; it’s also about celebrating our community and having a good time! The Festival offers a chance to relax, enjoy, and connect with others who share your passion for making a positive impact. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people, discover new ideas, and find inspiration for your own projects and initiatives.

“And the best part? Thanks to our wonderful sponsors and collaborators, all the events are free to attend. This means that everyone in the community can join in, regardless of their financial situation. We want to ensure that the SocialFuse Festival is accessible to all, so come along, bring your friends and family, and be part of this exciting event.”

Find out more about the events and activities taking place as part of the SocialFuse Festival on our event listing.

Kakou Technologies supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Attendees at festival sat around table watching presentation

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New pet shop opens in Chesterfield’s Market Hall

A new store giving dog owners the chance to purchase high-quality, natural treats and other supplies has opened in Chesterfield Market Hall.

Rosie Roo’s treats currently caters mainly to dog owners, but also stocks some treats that are suitable for cats. Since opening in recent weeks, the shop is working towards supplying goods for all pets. On top of treats for your furry friends, Rosie Roo’s now provides hay and straw for bedding, feeds for parrots and budgies, along with toys and accessories for dogs and cats.

Business owner, Adam Blackett said: “We started the shop because we recently had a family dog pass away from complications due to her diet. We got a new family dog, Rosie, hence the name of the shop!

“We started to look into more natural foods for her and realised not many people know of the great benefits natural foods and treats can give to their pets. So we began small, some pigs ear and a couple of cow knuckle bones. Slowly, we expanded into the selection we have today, which we are still expanding on.

“We make sure to research every product we buy, and have started putting together information boards that will be on display in our shop, explaining all the benefits and even from what part of the animal the treat originates from.”

Banner advertising pet shop business outside market hall unit

Speaking about why he chose Chesterfield Market Hall to open the business, Adam commented: “After visiting chesterfield on multiple occasions we found the town itself to be charming and the people to be friendly and kind.

“With the updates happening to the town’s market place, we can see how much chesterfield itself wants to improve as a town. We wanted to be part of that great growth and hopefully grow as a business from the Market Hall to a thriving store on the high street here.

“As with any business, local or otherwise. We wouldn’t get anywhere without our customers. We cherish everyone who comes to us, be they buying our products or learning more about how our treats can help their pets.

Shelves stocking natural dog treats

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield board member, added: “We’re so pleased to see Rosie Roo’s taking up a unit in our historic Market Hall.

“The iconic building continues to help new entrepreneurs take their first steps into the world of retail.

“In recent years, we’ve seen several success stories with businesses growing out of their Market Hall units, and into larger premises in the town centre.

“I would urge Chesterfield residents and businesses to keep supporting your local independents across the town centre, to help our small businesses grow and prosper.”

Pet lovers can find Rosie Roo’s inside Chesterfield Market Hall at stall 11. Goods can also be purchased via the online store at rosieroos.shop.

You can also find Rosie Roo’s on Facebook and on the TikTok shop.

Find out more about the fabulous independent businesses on Chesterfield’s historic high street at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

Chester

 

Posted in About Chesterfield

Bottle & Thyme toasts opening night success at Elder Way

Chesterfield’s award-winning independent bar and restaurant, Bottle & Thyme has made the move to Elder Way. The move has created six new jobs and prompted seven-day opening for the business.

The family-owned and run business has transformed the flagship corner unit of the former Co-op department store on Elder Way into a restaurant, private function room which seats up to 40 people, and bar, with additional outdoor space for dining and drinking.

The new function area, The Glass Room, hosted a wedding on the first night of opening and is already fully booked throughout September.

A 10-year lease on the 3,153 sq ft unit was agreed with Jomast in June. Since then, the frontage and interior of the unit have undergone a complete transformation.

The relocation to Elder Way has tripled the size of the business. The separate bar area has enabled owners Hannah and Gavin Grainger to expand Bottle & Thyme’s wine and cocktail menu. And just a month before opening, the couple welcomed baby Ellis to their family.

Gavin explained: “Because of the size of the unit we have been able to zone it internally which has ensured that it still feels intimate. It looks fantastic. Hannah and I are delighted at how everything has gone. The move has been really well received by our customers. We’ve had lots of bookings for the restaurant and function room. We’ve really hit the ground running.”

The new private function area, known as The Glass Room, caters for functions of up to 30 guests, Hannah explained: “Being located a short walk from the town hall, there is high demand for micro weddings, and this is already showing in the number of booking we have taken for The Glass Room. It’s a lovely space and something which Chesterfield didn’t have.”

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way. Hannah and Gavin have transformed the flagship corner unit of this iconic building, helping further bring our joint vision to life. Together with neighboring tenants, Premier Inn and Hotpod Yoga, Bottle & Thyme are creating a new leisure and hospitality quarter in the heart of Chesterfield. It is a very exciting time for this iconic site, and we are talking to a number of future potential tenants keen to take advantage of all that the town and the building can offer their businesses.”

Gavin and Hannah now plan to add further to Chesterfield’s food and drink offering. They have retained Bottle & Thyme’s former location on Knifesmithgate. The premises are now undergoing a. transformation into a charcuterie, cheese and wine bar, called Elder, which will open later this year.

The relocation of Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way follows the opening of Hotpod Yoga in Unit 7 in April earlier this year.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, said: “Everything is going really well with the unit and business. The location is brilliant. We get lots of walk-ins and enquiries from people who are passing. It’s brilliant to welcome another business to the Elder Way. There’s a really supportive business community developing here. We are already working with Bottle & Thyme on events for later in the year.”

Five units now remain available at Elder Way with joint agents WSB Property and FHP, reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk.

To find out more about commercial property opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

man sat at table wearing smart casual clothing outside cafe

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Chair’s Blog: It has been a pleasure to update you on Chesterfield’s progress

This is my final blog as Destination Chesterfield Chair

For over a decade, I’ve loved writing about our town’s successes, wonderful people, and the challenges we’ve tackled together. However, it’s time to step down from my voluntary role as Chair of Destination Chesterfield.

In 2010, the UK began to recover from a global financial crisis, online shopping gained momentum, and Chesterfield FC still played on the hallowed turf of Saltergate! That year, my company sought planning permission for Chesterfield Waterside beside Chesterfield Railway Station, aiming to revitalise the old Trebor factory site, creating jobs and homes.

Today, the new office block, One Waterside Place, houses several thriving companies, and all spaces are occupied. Additionally, hundreds of families now call Waterside Quarter their home.

waterside place

New business spaces have emerged at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in the town centre and The Glass Yard opposite the SMH Group Stadium—both near full occupancy.

We’ve also become a town of experiences. New restaurants opened across town, including at the Batch House within The Glass Yard – Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread when walking in there? The award-winning, independent, four-star Casa Hotel also stands as a point of pride, serving local produce and providing excellent facilities.

Last year, we began revamping the iconic Stephenson Memorial Hall. I eagerly await the contemporary home for our Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, enabling our town to host bigger and better shows and exhibitions.

This summer, we began modernising our market to attract diverse traders and highlight our 19th Century Town Pump. We look forward to a more accessible town centre with a flexible market space for events, friends, and family.

New layout for Chesterfield Market with contemporary stalls, heritage colours, Market Hall in the background, town pump a feature

Market Square Chesterfield – artist’s impression

Staveley is also set for transformation. New seating, lighting, paving for the town centre, and a new pavilion building will modernise the area to bring our communities together and support high streets.

It hasn’t all been sunshine and roses though… who could have predicted a global pandemic?! Despite challenges, our town’s ‘can-do’ attitude shines through. Positivity from businesses, the public sector, volunteers, and residents has helped us adapt to change.

Chesterfield boasts wonderful landmarks, history, and a great quality of life. But above all, I’ve learned that Chesterfield’s greatest asset is its people.

Thank you for sharing that passion far and wide. My final message: keep shouting about Chesterfield. We all want our town to become an even better place to visit, live, work, and invest. Let’s do this together as a community.

It has been a pleasure to update you on Chesterfield’s progress. I look forward to reading the views of our new voluntary board members at Destination Chesterfield in future articles. While I no longer lead as Chair, I will continue to play my part in securing our town’s positive future.

Pete.

Man in blue shirt smiling for camera in front of light background

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Gym facilities to be revamped at Chesterfield and Staveley leisure centres

Gym users in Chesterfield are set to benefit from new state-of-the-art fitness equipment as local leisure centres are refurbished.

The Healthy Living Centre at Staveley and Queen’s Park Sports Centre, which are both owned and operated by Chesterfield Borough Council, will see new equipment installed that will help to enhance the gym experience.

The new look gyms will also benefit from new contemporary flooring, lighting and decor to give a fresh and vibrant feel throughout to improve user experience.

Exterior of Staveley Healthy Living Centre

During the refurbishment, each gym will be temporarily closed, but works have been programmed to ensure members always have access to gym facilities at one of the centres.

The gym at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley will be closed from Monday 9 September and is set to reopen on Monday 23 September. During this time, gym users will be able to use the gym at Queen’s Park Sports Centre.

The gym at Queen’s Park Sports Centre will then close from Monday 23 September and is set to reopen on Monday 7 October. Gym users will be able to use the gym at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley during this time.

Exterior of Queens Park Sports Centre

All other facilities at the centres, including the swimming pools, will remain open throughout the refurbishment period.

Following the refurbishment, gym goers will be able to benefit from an enhanced fitness experience as the council is set to launch a new app which will help with the overall gym experience and assist with individual training plans, in addition to some advanced features on a selection of the new cardiovascular equipment.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “We are committed to improving our fitness facilities for our residents to help them be healthier, both physically and mentally.

“Encouraging people to take up fitness is a key priority for the council therefore keeping the equipment at both our fitness suites as up-to-date and accessible as possible is key. We’re really looking forward to launching this new state-of-the-art equipment and welcoming everyone back to an enhanced gym experience.”

Queen Park Sport Centre gym exercise wellbeing class

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