Champion: "More than 3,800 young people have taken part so far, and it has become the catalyst for a wider range of projects across the region."

I am Dom Stevens, Head of Destination Chesterfield. Destination Chesterfield is a public-private partnership which has been running for just over 15 years to promote Chesterfield as a place to invest, live, work and spend your leisure time.

What is your organisation looking forward to?

Destination Chesterfield continues to look forward and evolve alongside our town. With a £2 billion regeneration pipeline and the potential to create 7,800 jobs, we will keep working with stakeholders to deliver proactive marketing and engagement activity that benefits the local economy and the people of Chesterfield. We will continue to build a strong partnership with a collective voice to shout about the benefits of Chesterfield.

What makes Chesterfield and North Derbyshire a good place to work?

Chesterfield is perfectly located, with excellent road and rail connections, and has a strong pipeline of commercial property, and an excellent business support and skills programme to support business growth.

How are you, your organisation or your team supporting our communities and improving our quality of life?

We are involved in several initiatives that inspire young people to explore the career and apprenticeship opportunities available locally.

I am most proud of Made in Chesterfield, an initiative developed with businesses, schools, and education partners to showcase careers in manufacturing and engineering, as well as property and construction. Made opens the doors to local businesses, offering tours and hands-on experiences so young people can see real jobs in action. More than 3,800 young people have taken part so far, and the initiative has become the inspiration and catalyst for a wider range of projects across the region.

How would you describe Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, using only three words?

Inventive, friendly, home.

What places would you recommend to someone planning a two-night stay?

We have some great places to stay in and around the town, including Casa Hotel, Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa, and Peak Edge Hotel.

You can visit our town centre on a market or event day, shop and eat in our unique independent businesses, and explore heritage sites like the Crooked Spire, Chesterfield Canal, Hardwick Hall, and Barrow Hill Roundhouse. In the evening, enjoy a show at the Winding Wheel Theatre or a gig at Real Time Live.

In summer, hop on the Peak Explorer to see the best of the Peak District, then return for food and drink at one of our independent eateries.

How do Chesterfield and North Derbyshire showcase their culture and heritage?

Chesterfield is seeing significant investment in its cultural facilities and offerings. The Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield initiative has already created a new performance space in Market Square, attracting events such as Dinosaur Day and the Christmas Tipi. When complete in 2026, New Square will provide a larger, more flexible town centre space.

I love the new mural by Peachzz, bringing colour to the town, while reflecting the historic and future importance of our Market Square. I’m also looking forward to the heritage trail from the Animate project, encouraging people to explore our rich local heritage.

I’m particularly excited about the emerging lighting strategy. How amazing did the Crooked Spire look over the festive period? I can’t wait to see more buildings illuminated creatively.

With a diverse programme of festivals and events delivered by many organisations, I look forward to this continuing to grow and would encourage even more cultural activity in and around Chesterfield.