28 February 2025

Chesterfield Borough Council Appoints Milligan to Lead Strategic Role at The Pavements Shopping Centre.

Chesterfield Borough Council has appointed Milligan as the strategic asset manager for The Pavements shopping centre, following a competitive procurement process. We are delighted to be applying our experience in town centre regeneration, strategic leasing, asset management and repositioning to play a key role in unlocking The Pavements’ full potential as a cornerstone of Chesterfield’s broader regeneration efforts.

The Pavements: A Vital Hub for Chesterfield Town Centre

Located at the heart of Chesterfield Town Centre, The Pavements is owned by Chesterfield Borough Council and strategically positioned between the town’s historic market and bus station. Despite challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting shopping habits, and competition from out-of-town retail, The Pavements has remained resilient, providing a vital offer for local shoppers.

Now, with the support of Milligan’s expertise, the Council will review The Pavement’s role in Chesterfield’s town centre as public realm improvements progress. It’s current occupiers which include Tesco, WHSmith, Boots, other national retailers and a selection of independent businesses.

A Vision for the Future of The Pavements

Working in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, we will develop a strategic action plan for The Pavements, ensuring it meets the needs of the community while supporting Chesterfield’s ambitious regeneration. The plan will focus on maximising the shopping centre’s value to its occupiers, enhancing its appeal to Chesterfield’s growing catchment, and integrating it seamlessly with the town’s ongoing transformation.

Alex Hyams, Head of Asset Management at Milligan, commented: “Milligan has a long history of successfully delivering strategic asset management interventions to unlock performance for challenged schemes. We’ve worked across the country with mixed-use and retail-led destinations and bring a very experienced team. As the role of town centres evolves, shopping centres like The Pavements must adapt to meet the changing needs of their communities.

“Chesterfield is a location we know very well, it brings a unique blend historic character, walkability, good infrastructure which supports the growing tourism appeal of town and the surrounding Peak District. We’re excited to be working with such a forward-thinking Council, where important public realm works are already underway. Alongside this, The Pavements has the potential to become a cornerstone of Chesterfield’s regeneration and visitor experience and sustainable offer for the local community.”

Supporting Chesterfield’s Regeneration

Chesterfield Borough Council sees The Pavements as an essential part of its wider regeneration strategy and town centre offer.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Milligan to the team as we work to enhance The Pavements as part of Chesterfield’s town centre transformation. Milligan’s impressive track record of revitalising retail-led destinations, combined with their understanding of Chesterfield, makes them the ideal partner to help realise our vision.

“The Pavements will play a vital role in delivering a stronger, more vibrant town centre that benefits our residents, businesses, and visitors.”

Engaging the Local Community

We have recently joined the Chesterfield Champions Network and are keen to collaborate with local brands, businesses, and community partners as they shape new strategies to enhance The Pavements. Our approach will ensure the shopping centre not only supports the town centre’s regeneration but also reflects the needs and aspirations of the local community.

Image shows Alex Hyams (Milligan), Cllr Tricia Gilby (Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Tarah Gear (Milligan), Stuart Harris (Milligan) – Mike Jones PR