Regeneration of key area in Chesterfield is badly needed
The redevelopment of the area around and between the Railway Station and the Town Centre is badly needed. It can create employment and provide a more welcoming face to those arriving in Chesterfield.
At Cabinet and at Full Council I have made the point that we need proposals which are not dependent upon the uncertain Government plans to go ahead with HS2. Even calling it the HS2 Station Master Plan is in danger of creating a false sense of failure should the Government scrap their plans for the Eastern leg of HS2.
As well as the much needed economic benefits of redeveloping this area, a much better public transport link is needed. The uphill walk to the Town Centre is not very welcoming to the ill, elderly or those with luggage. It is though good to see cycle and walkways being designed in, as should now be standard for any new development.
I do hope that any new buildings will be designed to complement Chesterfield's townscape and not to clash with it. Unlike the 'Lego Brick' Enterprise Centre and 'Meccano Set' multi story car park on Holywell Cross.