Next phase of Staveley waterside development launched to boost visitor economy

A vision to turn Staveley Town Basin into a thriving visitor destination has taken a step forward now work has started to install nine jetties at The Moorings – thanks to funding from the Mayor of the East Midlands.

Following the opening of the two-storey business and retail development in July, the next phase of the Derbyshire County Council-led Chesterfield Canal development is taking shape to provide dedicated facilities for boats to moor within Staveley Town Basin.

It marks a return to the original vision for the scheme after initial plans to install the jetties were removed due to an increase in construction costs.

Now following a funding injection of about £800,000 from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), led by Mayor Claire Ward, supported by Chesterfield Borough Council and the Staveley Town Deal Board, nine jetties are being lifted the place.

‘Really encouraging’

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “It’s really encouraging to see work getting under way on this next phase of The Moorings. I know how much potential there is in Staveley Town Basin, and I’m committed to investing to unlock it.

““Bringing the jetties back into the plans means we can make the most of the canal, welcome more visiting boats and give people another reason to explore and spend time in Staveley. That can make a real difference to the local businesses already based here, as well as creating new opportunities for the town.”

The jetties were built off-site in preparation for the installation, which is expected to take about six weeks to complete. Each jetty measures about 25 metres in length and will be equipped with mooring facilities, electricity hook-up and drinking water supply for boats.

Councillor John Lawson, Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for finance and efficiency, said: “The installation of the new jetties represents another important step forward for The Moorings and Staveley Town Basin, helping to make greater use of Chesterfield Canal and further establish the area as a destination for boating, walking, cycling, businesses and visitors.

“Our ambition is to create a thriving waterside destination which supports businesses and jobs while encouraging more people to visit and enjoy this part of the canal.

“Providing proper facilities for boats to moor in the basin will help bring more activity onto the water, building on the investment already made in the new businesses, improved access and public open space around The Moorings, and I’m pleased that we’ve been able to bring back this important element of the original vision for the scheme.”

Staveley Town Deal

Ivan Fomin, Staveley Town Deal Board chair, said: “The Moorings has already brought significant investment into Staveley Town Basin, and these latest improvements will help build on that progress. The new jetties will strengthen the relationship between the development and the Chesterfield Canal, helping to encourage boating activity and making the basin an even more attractive place for residents and visitors.”

The Moorings, which is currently home to seven local businesses, is managed and funded by a partnership between the county council and the Staveley Town Deal – a £25m government-funded regeneration programme overseen by Chesterfield Borough Council. The town deal provided £3.5m of the £4.5m cost of the project with the balance being met by the county council.

The building forms part of the wider Markham Vale estate, an 85-hectare business park based on the site of the old Markham Colliery. The programme is a joint venture being delivered jointly with HBD focused on attracting and supporting businesses to thrive.

Further work will be carried out to improve the area around The Moorings and Staveley Town Basin for visitors and users including additional planting, improved signage and pathways.

Businesses wishing to enquire about leasing the remaining retail and office space are asked to call 01246 826000, or email trudi.saxton@derbyshire.gov.uk.