An initiative dedicated to promoting safer socialising and raising standards across Chesterfield has earned national recognition for the positive impact it is making across the borough.
Chesterfield’s Best Bar None scheme has been crowned ‘Best Town Scheme’ at the National Best Bar None Awards 2026, celebrating the significant progress made to enhance safety, raise standards, and support well managed venues throughout the town.
Initially launched in the town centre in 2024 by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary, the aim of the scheme is to help reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder and ensure safer socialising for everyone.
There are currently over 20 venues across Chesterfield which have the Best Bar None accreditation and the council is hopeful that this number will continue to grow as more premises commit to setting the standard for safe socialising.
The scheme has also seen the introduction of a number of other key initiatives to ensure the town remains a safe area for socialising, including the roll out of a digital radio network that allows business to share information, and the launch of a Safe Space Hub operating at weekends to provide medical and welfare support.
Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “Chesterfield is a safe and welcoming place to live, socialise and visit. Although alcohol related issues can arise from time to time, as they do in communities nationwide, we are firmly committed to maintaining a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone. The Best Bar None scheme is a key part of that commitment.
“Our town is home to an excellent range of bars, clubs and restaurants, and this national award reflects the dedication they’ve all shown to make sure they achieve their Best Bar None accreditation and how committed they are to setting the standards for safer socialising.”
Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added: "Chesterfield boasts a fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a wonderful place to enjoy an evening out and we want to make sure everyone feels safe when out and about.
“We’re really pleased to see so many local businesses already achieving Best Bar None accreditation again, and we look forward to even more venues joining them later this year. It is down to them that this national award was possible.”
The Chesterfield Best Bar None scheme is designed to build positive relationships between the licensed trade, police and local authorities, and aims to champion improvements in the way venues are managed, as well as encouraging best practice to be shared.
More information about Best Bar None.
Licensed premises owners can sign your business up to the Best Bar None scheme by contacting the council’s licensing team at glenn.holden@chesterfield.gov.uk or by calling 01246 345230.
