'The future is definitely looking brighter for Chesterfield - now let's support our high streets'
The chairman of Destination Chesterfield has urged residents to show support to local businesses following their reopening, as the community has ‘a chance to get back to our high streets’.
Pubs, restaurants and bars were allowed to welcome customers back on Monday, April 12, along with hairdressers, beauty salons, theme parks and outdoor attractions as Covid-19 lockdown measures start to ease.
In a blog, Destination Chesterfield chairman Peter Swallow said “the future is definitely looking brighter for everyone” following the success of the Covid-19 vaccination programme.
He urged residents to shop local as independent businesses start to open back up after months of forced closure due to lockdown, writing: “The re-opening of non-essential business is another positive step forward for the town.
"We have all been deprived of the things we enjoy doing whilst lockdown measures have been in place, such as shopping, attending events and eating out.
"With Chesterfield’s wealth of independent shops and eateries, we now have a chance to get back to our high streets and show our support upon their re-opening.
"Just a few pounds spent in local shops will make a huge difference to these businesses and I personally feel it is a far more enjoyable experience to visit these outlets as opposed to clicking on a website.”
The town’s high street reopening coincides with Destination Chesterfield’s new ‘Love Chesterfield Awards’ which open in May and aim to celebrate the best food and drink and retail businesses, local entrepreneurs and community contributions.
He also shared the importance of recognising the ‘success across the borough’ at this year’s Celebrate Chesterfield event, following a number of new developments in the town.
Construction recently begun on a McDonald’s restaurant and drive-thru on the site of a derelict former multi-storey car park at West Bars, along with schemes such as Chesterfield Waterside, PEAK and Northern Gateway.
Staveley also received £25.2 million from the Government’s Town Deal programme, to deliver ‘inclusive growth opportunities’ over the next five years.
Mr Swallow added: "The past year has shown just how strong we are when we pull together and I know that is this strength and determination that will continue to drive us forward into our bright future and beyond.”