How Chesterfield town centre could attract more visitors as it bounces back from the pandemic

During a meeting on Wednesday, Stephen Wenlock, project delivery manager at Chesterfield Borough Council, spoke about the £3.25million Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield development, which aims to breathe new life into the town centre.

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He told the Destination Chesterfield meeting: “Quite simply, we want this project to make more people come to Chesterfield, more often and to stay longer when they visit.

“We are working on an enhanced programme of events and activities which will provide regular, special additional reasons for people to come into the town.

“We are in a fantastic position to make changes in the town to help it stay fit for purpose in a post-pandemic world.

“We want to help make the town a more special place.”

Mr Wenlock said a survey of members of the public, market traders and local businesses found people want to see ‘better footfall’ and ‘regular different things going on in the town centre – whether that’s small events or workshops or other things to increase the offer’.

He added: “What we know from all of this is it’s going to lead us towards designing more flexible space in the town centre which will be suitable to support Chesterfield as a great place to visit and experience.”

Mr Wenlock said online shopping poses challenges for town centres.

But he pointed out ‘you can’t get everything online’ and said the intention was to make Chesterfield town centre a place where people can enjoy experiences as well as shopping.

Past events and activities in Chesterfield town centre – such as a big wheel in 2018 – have brought in significant visitor numbers and created a real buzz.

Under Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield, the outdoor market will also get improved access, better lighting and power, new trading areas and repairs to existing stalls.

Improvements will also be made to Elder Way, Knifesmithgate and Packers Row, including the planting of trees and introducing more outdoor seating for customers of local hospitality businesses.

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