The 'A Sense of Chesterfield' trail will feature unique sculptures celebrating the town's rich history at five key locations in the town centre. These artworks, created by Derbyshire-based Sculpture Works, will be accompanied by interpretation panels and online content delving deeper into the borough's heritage.
Bernardine Rutter from Sculpture Works stated that the aim is to encourage people to explore Chesterfield's history and uncover hidden stories. The sculpture designs draw inspiration from the borough crest and incorporate elements from the town's past.
The trail's five themes – innovation, music and dancing, sports and leisure, parades and gatherings, and the people of Chesterfield – were developed through workshops with local residents. Each sculpture will represent one of these themes. For example, a wall-based piece at the Shambles will highlight sports and leisure, including the invention of walking football and cricket at Queen's Park.
The project has received nearly £80,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional funding from Chesterfield Borough Council's Animate Chesterfield programme. This support has enabled collaboration with researchers, filmmakers, poets, and public arts specialists.
This is a fantastic project that will celebrate the incredible achievements of our borough and the people that have lived here. Thank you to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for supporting this project. The trail will help guide visitors around our town centre but will also rekindle treasured memories for many of our residents. I look forward to these works being installed and everyone having the opportunity to explore our borough’s rich history in a fun and engaging way.
Community groups such as the Chesterfield Civic Society and Chesterfield and District Local History Society have collaborated on the trail's development. Howard Borrell, Chair of Chesterfield and District Civic Society, expressed excitement for the project, noting its potential to enhance awareness of the town's historical milestones.
The sculptures are funded by Animate Chesterfield, a public art programme organised by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Beam. The trail is scheduled for installation in 2027, pending planning approval. Funding was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s percent for art scheme.
