Chesterfield town centre 'ahead of the curve' for road map's recovery from pandemic

Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out his steps out of the national lockdown on Monday – revealing that non-essential shops, hairdressers and gyms are set to reopen from April and indoor hospitality venues from May.

He also said he did not believe the pandemic would lead to a fundamental change in the way people live in towns and cities as more people become used to remote working.

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Speaking at a Downing Street briefing, he said there may be opportunities for offices to be turned into residential accommodation in town centres and high streets.

“I’m a sceptic when people say this is going to lead to a massive change in urban life, I’m doubtful,” Mr Johnson said.

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield manager, said Chesterfield was ‘ahead of the curve’.

"The increase in town centre living has long been a priority for Chesterfield and the conversion of a number of commercial buildings into homes is already well under way, including the former law courts, Burlington House and 87 New Square to name just a few,” he said.

“Increasing the residential offering in the town is just one part of the strategy to ensure Chesterfield thrives once again.

"The new office accommodation which is under construction at both Elder Way and Chesterfield Waterside will also help increase footfall and the vibrancy of our town centre.”

Last summer, a report suggested Chesterfield could prove more resilient than other town centres and recover quicker.

The Local Data Company’s study, ‘The Impact of Covid-19 on UK Town and City Centres’, said Chesterfield is better placed than many other towns because of the strong mix of shops it possesses.

Mr Stevens added: “People want to get out onto the high street. They have found that sitting behind a computer screen is no substitute for the high street experience and all that it offers the senses – from watching events, browsing around a market stall, pottering around a shop or sitting in a café and watching the world go by.

"Chesterfield has all of this and more which bodes very well for the future success of the high street.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.