Visiting

Chesterfield rail passengers benefit from shorter Sunday journey times to London

A new intercity timetable providing faster Sunday services has been put into place, saving Chesterfield passengers up to 20 minutes on their journey time to London St. Pancras.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) is now offering significantly improved Sunday Intercity journey times as part of its December timetable change.

Changes to the timetable will also mean passengers travelling to Chesterfield from London will save up to 27 minutes on their journey.

The enhancements, which are made possible by working in collaboration with Network Rail, will require the closure of tracks for maintenance and will result in the removal of two early Sunday morning services. This will give Network Rail more time to carry out maintenance work and ensure trains run safely and reliably.

Will Rogers, Managing Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “This is great news for customers who use our Intercity services on Sundays.

“In addition to speeding up 12 journeys, which will encourage more people to travel by rail, the changes will also enable critical track maintenance work and deliver annual savings to the taxpayer—balancing the need for long-term infrastructure improvements with passenger experience.”

Mark Budden, Route Director for Network Rail in the East Midlands, added: “Like all things, the railway needs to be maintained and improved, and the majority of this work needs to be carried out when trains are not running to keep everyone safe.

“These changes to the timetable are a real testament to the work between EMR and Network Rail. As well as faster journeys, it should also mean more reliable services because Network Rail teams will have more time to carry out maintenance on a crucial part of the line.”

Chesterfield is ideally located in the centre of England, and benefits from excellent connections to several major cities. Find out more about living and working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

 

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New shop brings major skincare and cosmetic brands to Chesterfield Market Hall

A new shop in Chesterfield Market Hall has opened just in time for Christmas, allowing visitors to pick up well known makeup and skin care products at discounted prices.

Cosmetic Company Outlet stocks brands such as Clinique, Clarins, Kiehl’s, Molton Brown, Estee Lauder, Elizabeth Arden, Bare Minerals and many more. Not only does the store sell luxury brands, customers will also find budget brands such as Rimmel, Maybelline and others with items starting at £1  for lipsticks, blushers, eye shadows and more.

Store owner, Dominic Kerry commented: “Our prices are highly discounted when compared with the prices the department stores charge. We can afford to do this because we keep our overheads low and pass the savings onto our customers.

“We have been successfully trading online for 14 years and we feel now is the right time for us to open a physical shop. We were attracted to opening a store in the Victorian Market Hall in Chesterfield, because it is a charming and vibrant hub located in the heart of the town, known for its historic setting and wide variety of stalls. Currently we believe there is no other store that can offer the same service, prices and brands as we do.”

Dominic also believes there are plenty of reasons to support independents in Chesterfield: “A thriving high street is key to boosting the potential of a town, local businesses also generate revenue to support council services such as libraries, parks and roads that benefit communities. You might be surprised to see just how competitive the prices are in your local high street shops.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “I’d like to wish Cosmetic Company Outlet a warm welcome to Chesterfield’s historic market hall.

“The store adds yet another brilliant independent retailer to our town centre, which is currently undergoing an exciting multi-million pound refurbishment.

“It’s vital we continue to support or independent shops wherever we can, to ensure our high street thrives now, and in the future.”

Chesterfield’s unique high street boast a diverse mix of national retailers and quirky independents. Discover more about shopping and leisure in our town.

You can find the Cosmetic Company Outlet in the Chesterfield Market Hall, Stall 6, and online at www.cosmeticcompanyoutlet.co.uk. The store offers free delivery on all items purchased via the website.

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Staveley Market regeneration begins

The multi-million pound regeneration of Staveley Market has started on site, with an official groundbreaking ceremony to mark the milestone.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, includes the construction of a new landmark building in the town centre, improvements to the market square and rejuvenation of the high street. Together the works will help support local businesses by creating a more attractive, welcoming and safe town centre for everyone to enjoy.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “It is fantastic to get this project underway as it will transform Staveley town centre and enhance it for visitors, businesses and residents.

“It will expand what the town centre has to offer – creating new opportunities for events and social spaces but also encourage more people to visit to support both existing retailers and market traders.

“This is an exciting and ambitious project that forms a key part of the Staveley Town Deal programme, and we look forward to seeing progress over the coming months.”

The council’s construction partner, Stepnell, will be leading the programme of work on site, which has begun with the removal of the disused toilet block on the market square.

Staveley pavillion building artist impression

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “As we commence works on Staveley 21, early engagement and continued close collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council, partners and community – including Staveley Junior School – has put works in a strong position. Our team is committed to delivering a rejuvenated public space, which will serve the future of a more attractive Staveley town centre.”

Next year a new landmark building will be built to form a new focal point for the town centre. Once completed the building will house Derbyshire County Council’s Staveley Library on the ground floor and the upstairs will provide space for new businesses.  The building will include grade-A office accommodation with sustainable features and accessible entry, the space will be available on competitive terms.  To find out more about this opportunity and register your interest please contact Chesterfield Borough Council’s Economic Development Team on 01246 345255 or by emailing economic.development@chesterfield.gov.uk. 

Staveley 21 also includes the transformation of the marketplace to create an enlarged public space to support existing uses such as Staveley Town Council’s regular markets but also as a setting that can be used to host a wide range of new events to encourage more people to visit the town centre.

Proposals include new tiered outdoor seating to support outdoor theatre and performances, and natural play equipment to help make the marketplace more attractive to families.

Designs for the play equipment have been developed in collaboration with pupils from Staveley Junior School, who visited the site with Stepnell and took part in a workshop to discuss what kind of equipment they would like to see installed.

New paving, lighting, street furniture and planting will help create an enhanced atmosphere and visitor experience through the day and night whilst new signage will help connect the town centre with Staveley’s other visitor attractions including the Chesterfield Canal and Staveley Hall.

Around £5 million of funding has been provided through the Staveley Town Deal – a £25.2 million programme that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow.

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is an exciting project for Staveley that will help the town centre to attract additional visitors and support local businesses.

Almost all of our Town Deal projects are now being delivered on site. This is a fantastic achievement across all partners, and people will soon start to see the impact of all these projects in their community.”

To find out more about the project, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/

Find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield and Staveley at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Chesterfield retains ranking as the happiest town in the East Midlands

Chesterfield has once again come out on top of a survey which highlights the happiest towns in the East Midlands.

Our town came top of the regional table in the latest Rightmove Happy at Home index. Now in its 13th year, the online property portal surveyed over 35,000 people across Great Britain to find out exactly what they love (or don’t love) about where they live.

The survey measures how residents feel about their local area across 15 key happiness factors. These range from the sense of togetherness within the community and access to green spaces, to the feeling of belonging that a place fosters.

Rightmove property expert, Tim Bannister, said: “For over a decade we’ve been asking residents what makes them feel happy about where they live, as feeling happy is about more than the home itself.

“It’s the intangible factors of feeling proud to live in an area, feeling a sense of belonging, and feeling able to be yourself that are the biggest drivers of happiness.”

The main drivers of happiness in a place according to Rightmove are:

  • A welcoming community where you can truly be yourself
  • Access to nature, such as local countryside, or National Parks
  • Practical things, like nearby schools, doctors, and shops

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “To see Chesterfield remain top of the list as the happiest place to live in the East Midlands is great news for the area.

“Chesterfield offers residents a fantastic work/life balance, access to green space, superb education facilities, and of course the warm sense of community across our town.

“There is also plenty to do if you like keeping busy, with our historic town centre undergoing a multi-million-pound regeneration. If you’re looking for a perfect location and quality of life for your family, Chesterfield is the place for you.”

Find out more about the benefits of living and working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

 

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New café opens its doors at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley

A new independent café has officially opened its doors in the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley – further boosting facilities for sports centre customers and residents.

The new outlet – called the ‘Coffee Stop’ – has been created on the ground floor of the Chesterfield Borough Council-owned leisure centre.

It is open seven days a week – serving a variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and meals, and provides a new social place for sports centre customers, and members of the public, to meet-up.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “This independent café is a great new addition to our centre, and comes just weeks after the newly-refurbished gym was unveiled, boasting a range of state-of-the-art fitness equipment.

“Going to the gym, a fitness class or watching your child’s swimming lesson can be as much about socialising and making new connections, as it is about exercising – and the Coffee Stop provides the perfect place to meet up or enjoy a post-workout refreshment.

“We are delighted to welcome this local business into our centre, and we wish them great success.”

The council had offered the opportunity for a leaseholder to take space in the ground floor of the centre on Barlow Road as part of its plans to both improve local facilities, but to also make the best use of its buildings.

Neil and Maria Butkeraitis, co-owners of the Coffee Stop and who also operate the popular café at Poolsbrook Country Park, said: “We’re so excited to open our doors in the Healthy Living Centre and bring even more facilities for people to enjoy in this hub of the community.

“We’ve already got a great family of customers at our café in Poolsbrook Country Park, and we hope everyone will love the opportunity to enjoy our relaxing atmosphere and tasty menu in this additional new venue.

“We’ve been working hard to get everything ready, and to recruit some new team members – and we look forward to seeing customers old and new in our new home!”

The café is open from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm on Saturdays and 9am to 5pm on Sundays, serving a variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and meals, including vegan and gluten-free options.

Visit http://www.coffeestopcafe.com/ for more information and to view the menu.

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Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K date confirmed for 2025

Organisers of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K have confirmed the event is set to come back to the town next year and will take place on its new Spring date of Sunday 11th May 2025.

The route will start and finish in Queens Park and will be centred on the heart of Chesterfield, taking in major landmarks such as the town’s famous crooked spire. It will also feature service and cheer stations on the course and start at 10 am.

As its name suggests, the Redbrik Foundation is once again the title partner of the 10k event, alongside other charity partners Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Cavendish Cancer Care. To date, the event has raised over £230,000 for several charities and good causes.

The Redbrik Foundation is a charitable trust which supports a number of local organisations each year, primarily seeking to enhance the lives of children and young people, the elderly or vulnerable and those with disabilities.

John Timms, Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K Event Director, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the event back to Chesterfield for a fourth time in Spring next year.

“When we launched the 10k event back in 2021 it was with a view to deliver a fantastic race for both participants and the local community to engage with and enjoy. To have raised so much money for local charities is a wonderful legacy for the event and one that we are really proud of.

“As event organisers, we once again want to thank event sponsors and partners, and the wider community for their support.

“We also wish to thank our key partners, including Redbrik, as well as Chesterfield Borough Council.”

David Cooper, Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, said: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved. It has been great to give something back to the town that has continually supported our estate agency business, Redbrik.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. I am very much looking forward to seeing the streets filled with runners and supporters on 11 May 2025.”

To enter the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K visit www.chesterfield10k.com

Find out more about some of the fantastic events and activities coming to Chesterfield in 2025: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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Chesterfield’s new board game café is now open

After months of anticipation, Chesterfield’s first dedicated board game café is now open to customers.

Board & Bean will bring people together over games of all types and genres, alongside a helping of food & drink.

Co-owner of the new venue, John McAssey commented: “We are overwhelmed at the positivity received when we first announced this a couple of months ago. The people of Chesterfield and surrounding areas have put their trust in us with many becoming members early to help support our project. We have made an inclusive space for all to come and enjoy, relax and socialise.”

John explains the amount of work that he and his team have put into making the space inclusive and accessible: “The floor has been levelled, ramps added and we raised the floor to ensure easy access to our self contained toilets. The tables and games library have been lovingly crafted by Andy who originally had the idea of opening a board game cafe. The building work has been completed by Clinton to a really high standard and he will be in the cafe day to day to ensure everyone has a great experience. Our private Annex room is also available if you need a space away from the main room.”

Whilst in the process of developing the venue into a warm and friendly space for gaming, the Board & Bean team has also established links within the local business community to help support the local economy.

John added: “Growing up in Chesterfield and seeing what great things our town has to offer really cemented that we need to collaborate with other like minded businesses and entrepreneurs. We have been working hard to create a great community within our entertainment and hobby spaces.

“Geeks Headquarters, which offers a one stop shop to get all your gaming needs, have worked with us to provide Board & Bean members with 10% discount on board games. We will be providing Chesterfield Escape Rooms visitors discounts on food and drink. Not forgetting the amazing local groups to provide sessions for people to paint, make comics, play role playing games and a lot more coming soon.

“Our passion project is also focusing on the community working with the Derbyshire Connectors programme bringing people with learning difficulties together. Local groups and charities will be a focus and we are currently working with WORTH, Wee See Hope and Mindsight to provide a space to raise some much needed funds for great causes.

“We love Chesterfield, it is where we have grown up and live. There are some amazing spaces and we want to help shine a light on these while working in partnership. We hope Board & Bean will be an attraction for people to come and visit the town too. Please show your support, we also still do great coffee and cake!”

To find out more about Board & Bean, go to https://boardandbean.co.uk/links

If you want to find out more about planning your day out in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

 

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Ministry Clothing expands into new store at Vicar Lane

Ministry Clothing, a popular menswear shop in Chesterfield has opened a new, larger store at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre.

The spacious upgrade, next to F.Hinds, allows Ministry Clothing to expand their collection, now featuring an impressive range of suits alongside their existing offerings.

The store offers a wide range of popular menswear brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, Calvin Klein and Fred Perry. Visitors can discover a range of style staples including denim, hoodies, tees, shirts and footwear in a variety of styles for every season.

The announcement adds to the positive news of new shops arriving on Chesterfield’s high street. Recently, Vicar Lane also announced the arrival of Edinburgh Woolen Mill to the town centre.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane said, “We are delighted that we have been able to assist Ministry Clothing in providing them with a larger store. We wish them all the best in their new home!”

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Discover the Charm of Shopping in Chesterfield

Adorn Jewellers Shopping

Chesterfield town centre offers the perfect destination for a memorable day out.

Explore our vibrant town, where shopping meets history and community. With the town’s Railway Station and Coach Station just a short stroll away, getting here couldn’t be easier.

As you wander through Chesterfield, soak in the stunning architecture and the charm of our cobbled streets. Discover unique treasures from independent retailers nestled in The Shambles and The Yards, or head to Vicar Lane and The Pavements Shopping Centre for popular high-street brands, often accompanied by outdoor activities.

Take a break from shopping with a scenic walk to Queen’s Park. Don’t miss a picturesque ride on the miniature train! And don’t forget, a trip to Chesterfield wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Parish Church of St Mary and All Saints, known for its famous crooked spire!

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

 

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Champions continue work in the community

Chesterfield’s community continues to be strengthened through several initiatives to help charities, community groups and people in need.

Our latest news showcases support for our town’s veterans, young people, those who have lost loved ones, and new mothers.

Discover the latest on how Chesterfield Champions have been collaborating to support our community below.

Vicar Lane supports The Children’s Hospital Charity Snowflake Sponsorship

Vicar Lane snowflakes

Vicar Lane, Chesterfield, is delighted to be supporting The Children’s Hospital Charity this Christmas through their snowflake appeal.

Each year businesses are encouraged to sponsor a snowflake which is displayed around locations in Sheffield and South Yorkshire – this year Vicar Lane is thrilled to be one of those locations.

This year, the charity will celebrate the twentieth anniversary of their iconic snowflakes, which has raised £2.5 million for the hospital to date.

The initiative brings people together with a shared goal to change the lives of children and their families and to deliver the best possible care. This year’s sponsorship will support the build of Sheffield Children’s brand-new research and technology centre, the National Centre for Child Health Technology (NCCHT).

The snowflakes have now been beautifully displayed at Vicar Lane above Qoozies and the Grotto, for families to admire when they visit Santa.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane says: ‘’We’re delighted to be part of this initiative and it is lovely to see the businesses that have sponsored the snowflakes on display. They are a lovely touch above our Christmas grotto for everyone to admire”

Sophie Coburn, Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Children’s Hospital Charity says: “We are so grateful to Vicar Lane Shopping Centre for this sparkling display of Snowflakes adding to our 20th Anniversary Celebrations, a fantastic location in the heart of Chesterfield.”

MP Visits New Veteran Community Hub

vicar lane military hub veterans

Stand To Derbyshire Veteran Community Services (STDVCS) was delighted to welcome Labour MP Toby Perkins to their new Veteran Community Hub at Vicar Lane, Chesterfield on Friday 1st November.

MP Toby Perkins’ visit gave the team an opportunity to discuss with him the success of the hub and the extensive support it has already provided the local community.

Stand To have seen a 300% increase in visits from female veterans and families of veterans, who are struggling to cope with some of the complex issues their partners are experiencing.

Jane Lawther, STDVCS Manager said “We were delighted to welcome MP Toby Perkins to the hub and discuss the benefit of being located in the heart of Chesterfield. We are so pleased about the feedback we are receiving from the veterans that visit and how comfortable they feel to come in for a chat and receive advice’.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager, Vicar Lane said, “It was great to have the opportunity to talk to Toby Perkins about how this project came to fruition and about my role as a trustee of the charity’

The hub, which opened on 1st October is managed by Stand To Derbyshire Veteran Community Services (STDVCS), who are dedicated to supporting Derbyshire’s Ex-Forces community and their families. The project differs from generic support services by providing a tailored longer-term programme to the Derbyshire Ex- Armed Forces community.

The hub provides a space dedicated for veterans, where they can have a cuppa, chat and a friendly ear. One to one support and extensive resources will be offered, with the chance to talk to a dedicated ex armed forces worker or volunteer.

Support that can be provided ranges from pension enquiries, welfare support, housing, signposting or a referral into STDVCS’s specialised alcohol treatment service.  For further support, the charity can also put veterans in touch with veteran specific organisations.

Daughter backs hospice appeal in memory of ‘courageous’ mum

Ashgate light up a life appeal

 

The daughter of an “adventurous and courageous” mum who received end of life care at Ashgate Hospice has backed the charity’s Light Up a Life appeal in her memory.

Dorothy Greveson was admitted to the hospice’s Inpatient Unit in Chesterfield before her death last year, aged 63.

After being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020, Dorothy, from Clowne, Derbyshire, spent the final two weeks of her life in “comfort and happiness” thanks to Ashgate’s care.

Her children Stacey, Liam, Louise and Dale, will be dedicating a star in tribute to their mum as part of the Light Up a Life appeal, sponsored by Harrold Lilleker & Sons Ltd.

Stacey Kelly, a teaching assistant, said the hospice treated Dorothy with “patience and empathy” until she died on 30th August.

The 27-year-old said: “Life became extremely tough watching mum get weaker and weaker, but she made it her mission to use the last of her energy chasing the sun!

“She wasn’t ready to go and that was the hardest part of it all – knowing that her age was just a number as she was so young at heart.

“When mum neared the end of her life and she was admitted to Ashgate, it was such a relief as she was finally getting the round-the-clock care she required.

“The setting was so welcoming and there was such a reassuring atmosphere, while the staff showed her so much patience and empathy.

“The care mum and us all received was like nothing else we had experienced.”

The fundraising campaign aims to raise funds so future patients can access the same support Dorothy did when they need it most.

As part of the Light Up a Life appeal, the hospice is inviting families to remember the life of someone special by dedicating a star in the hospice’s virtual night sky.

For a suggested donation of £25, supporters can dedicate a star in memory of someone special.

Once their dedication has been made they will receive an invitation to the hospice’s ceremony on Sunday 1st December 2024.

Like other hospices across the UK, only a fraction of Ashgate Hospice’s funding comes from the NHS, which is 31% in Ashgate’s case.

Support the Light Up a Life appeal and dedicate a star in memory of your loved ones, while helping fund palliative and end of life care across North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital achieves ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here Award’

Chesterfield royal hospital breast feeding award

Chesterfield Royal Hospital has achieved the ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here Award’ from Derbyshire County Council.

The Breastfeeding Welcome Here Award aims to:

  • Help community venues show they actively welcome and support breastfeeding
  • Support new families to feel confident breastfeeding when out and about
  • Improve awareness about the lifelong benefits of breastfeeding for mother and child
  • Remove any barriers that may prevent people from breastfeeding in public

Having a breastfeeding friendly Trust, families can feel confident to breastfeed in public with the reassurance that staff members are aware of the Equality Act 2010, the law which protects breastfeeding and therefore will support families. The Trust will never ask anybody breastfeeding to move to an unsuitable place or cover up.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital is passionate about supporting patients and the community – an important part of this is making sure that families feel comfortable to feed while out and about, and within the Trust.

This can help reduce feelings of loneliness, improve mental health, reduce stigma, and ease their breastfeeding journey.

Siobhan Almond, Infant Feeding and Wellbeing Lead Midwife, said: “It is a privilege to lead the rollout of this scheme across Chesterfield Royal Hospital. Parents cannot always predict when they will next need to breastfeed their baby or child so it is important that they feel safe and welcome to breastfeed whenever and wherever they need to whilst visiting the Trust.

As a result of collaborative working there are a number of exciting projects and improvements currently happening throughout the Trust in relation to infant feeding. This shows our commitment in supporting and enabling the normalisation of breastfeeding within the hospital for patients, colleagues, and visitors.”

Dotty Watkins OBE, Interim Director of Midwifery, added: “I am delighted beyond measure that Chesterfield Royal Hospital has been awarded the ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’ award from Derbyshire County Council.  It was a pleasure to be joined by Councillor Carol Hart from Derbyshire County Council and Jenny Godfrey from Public Health Derbyshire County Council, who presented the award.  There have been so many people who have made this possible, though special thanks must go to the Perinatal Infant Feeding Team, Siobhan Almond, Amiee Leatherday, Rachel Payne and Denise Pemberton.  Thanks also to the executive support of Hal Spencer, Chief Executive, and Caroline Wade MBE, Trust Infant Feeding Guardian, for their support throughout the journey.  To have strong leadership support for getting the basis right in our service, certainly makes a difference.”

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities Councillor Carol Hart said: “We’re delighted to welcome Chesterfield Royal Hospital on board.

“We know how important it is to ensure that breastfeeding parents feel safe and encouraged to feed their children in public.

“We hope that lots more Derbyshire businesses will sign up to the Breastfeeding Welcome Here Award.”

If you would like to see all local venues who are part of the scheme, please visit the DCHS’s Breastfeeding Welcome Online Directory and Interactive Map Breastfeeding your baby.

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Future of popular Peak District hotel and restaurant secured following acquisition

The Premier Inn Chesterfield West hotel and Highwayman Beefeater Restaurant, at the edge of the Peak District National Park just six miles from Chesterfield Town Centre has been acquired by the Devonshire Group, securing the site’s future.

The Group has purchased the site for an undisclosed sum and will focus on protecting and growing the impact of the hotel and restaurant within the local economy and Peak District visitor landscape.

Located in Eastmoor just off the A619, the hotel offers 25 rooms alongside a Beefeater restaurant and employs 28 staff. The Devonshire Group will enter a period of planning to bring forward a new vision for the site that will be announced in due course. In the meantime, the restaurant and hotel will retain the name The Highwayman. All existing staff at the site will continue in their employment at the hotel and restaurant under the Devonshire Group’s ownership.

The Devonshire Group has a strong track record of investing in local business and hospitality.  It oversees a diverse collection of hotels, restaurants and holiday cottages across the Chatsworth Estate, including The Cavendish Hotel and The Devonshire Arms at Beeley and Pilsley. The group has also owned the nearby Peak Village shopping centre and nature reserve since 2021, consistently developing the site’s offer since its acquisition, as well as its reputation as a destination for local communities and visitors alike.

Stephen Vickers, CEO of the Devonshire Group, said: “We are always looking for opportunities to create and grow businesses that have a positive impact on local people, local employment and the wider visitor economy in Derbyshire.

“The Highwayman site represents just that, providing us with the chance to enhance an already successful site to encourage even more visitors to this special corner of the UK, connecting them with nature, heritage and the wealth of local activities and produce on offer here.

“We are looking forward to welcoming our new colleagues to the Devonshire Group and sharing our plans for the site in due course.”

Richard Palmer, Managing Director of Devonshire Hotels and Restaurants Group said: “We’re very excited about the opportunity to add the Highwayman to our portfolio of restaurants and accommodation in Derbyshire, and to build on the warm welcome and strong reputation created over years by the staff at this site.”

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield and the Peak District at www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting

Discover more about the Highwayman at https://highwaymanhotel.co.uk/

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

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Safe space launched for people enjoying a night out in Chesterfield

A ‘safe space’ in the heart of Chesterfield is helping to keep partygoers and vulnerable people safe – whilst also taking pressure off the emergency services.

Chesterfield’s Safe Space is a multi-agency initiative that aims to provide support to anyone who may feel vulnerable or in need of support.

Located at Old Parish Café, 3 St Mary’s Gate, Chesterfield (near the Pig and Pump), the Safe Space is open every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm to 3am. It is run by staff from Chesterfield Borough Council’s community safety team, paramedics and street pastors, who works alongside Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary to help keep everyone safe.

Night time revellers can visit the Safe Space to charge their phones or get help to get a taxi home. Free hot drinks or water are also available, along with flip-flops for anyone who is ready to kick-off their killer heels.

The team are also on hand to provide first aid, help people who have become separated from their friends, or just offer a listening ear to anyone who may need it.

Support is also available to anyone who may be vulnerable, and the team can provide information and leaflets about a range of issues including alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness and mental health.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re lucky to have so many bars, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield that residents and visitors can enjoy, and we want to make sure everyone feels supported to be able to enjoy a safe night out.

“The Safe Space has already made a huge impact on the community – whether that be helping partygoers who need to ditch the killer heels and charge their phone, or being a listening ear for someone who may be lonely of vulnerable – there’s support for everyone.

“With the Christmas season fast approaching, we know more and more people will be heading out to enjoy the festivities too, and we hope that it will be reassuring for many that the safe space is on hand to help if they need it.”

Inspector Kara Simpson said: “Chesterfield is a fantastic night out, but we know sometimes things don’t always go to plan.

“If you find that has happened then know that there is somewhere to go and there is someone to give you a cuppa, order a taxi, or simply listen to you.

“Christmas is a time when we know people head out on the town – but we also know it can be a tough period for many – so if it’s just a friend who has had one too many or a stranger who looks like they are having a difficult time, there is a place to go to find some help.”

Planning an evening out in Chesterfield? Check out our guide here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/night-out/

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