National company provides £31 million investment for local community transport.
Stagecoach has recently introduced electric buses in Chesterfield, marking a significant step towards sustainable transportation in the region. These buses are not only environmentally friendly but also offer a quieter and smoother ride compared to traditional diesel buses. The transition to electric buses is part of Stagecoach’s broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions.
One of the key benefits of electric buses is their reduced impact on air quality. Diesel buses are known for their high emissions of pollutants, which contribute to poor air quality and health issues in urban areas. Electric buses, on the other hand, produce zero emissions, making them a much cleaner option for public transportation. This change is expected to have a positive effect on the health and well-being of Chesterfield residents.
Moreover, electric buses are more cost-effective in the long run. Although the initial investment in electric buses and charging infrastructure can be high, the operational costs are significantly lower. Electric buses require less maintenance and have lower fuel costs compared to diesel buses. This can lead to savings for the transportation company, which can be passed on to the passengers in the form of lower fares.
The introduction of electric buses also aligns with the global trend towards sustainable transportation. Many cities around the world are adopting electric buses as part of their efforts to combat climate change and reduce their carbon footprint. Chesterfield’s move to electric buses positions the town as a forward-thinking community that is committed to environmental sustainability.
Stagecoach’s electric buses in Chesterfield represent a positive development for the town. They offer numerous benefits, including improved air quality, cost savings, and alignment with global sustainability trends. As more people become aware of these advantages, it is likely that the adoption of electric buses will continue to grow, paving the way for a greener future.
Wildfires in the Peak District National Park: A Growing Concern.
By Kayleigh Northall.
The Peak District National Park, spans parts of five counties: Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and Greater Manchester, and covers over 550 square miles. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, the moorlands have suffered from extensive wildfires over the years. These fires have not only threatened the natural beauty of the park but also posed significant risks to the local communities and wildlife. Since 1976 there have been over 448 reported wildfire incidents in the Peak District National Park.
Data collected is since 2008 as the resources were not available to collect the data prior to this. The available data shows that the number of wildfires fluctuates each year, making it challenging to assess their environmental impact. The fires have far-reaching consequences, impacting biodiversity, carbon storage, water resources, flood prevention, economic costs, and social impact.
Wildfires in the Peak District have caused extensive damage to the flora and fauna. The park’s unique ecosystems, which include rare species of plants and animals, have been severely affected. The fires have led to the destruction of habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to survive and thrive. Additionally, the loss of vegetation has increased the risk of soil erosion, which can further degrade the environment.
The wildfires have also had a profound impact on the local communities. Residents have been forced to evacuate their homes, and many have suffered property damage. The economic repercussions are significant, with businesses in the area facing losses due to the disruption caused by the fires. Tourism, a major source of income for the region, has been adversely affected as visitors are deterred by the ongoing threat of wildfires.
Several factors have contributed to the increase in wildfires in the Peak District. Climate change has led to hotter and drier conditions, making the area more susceptible to fires. Human activities, such as campfires and discarded cigarettes, have also played a role in igniting these fires. To mitigate the risk, it is crucial to implement stricter regulations and raise awareness about fire safety among visitors and residents.
Efforts to combat the wildfires have been ongoing. Firefighters and volunteers have worked tirelessly to contain the fires and prevent them from spreading. The use of advanced technology, such as drones and satellite imagery, has aided in monitoring and managing the fires. Additionally, reforestation projects are being undertaken to restore the damaged areas and promote the recovery of the park’s ecosystems.
The wildfires in the Peak District National Park serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and human activities. It is imperative to take proactive measures to protect this precious natural resource and ensure the safety of its inhabitants. Through collective efforts and increased awareness, we can hope to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the Peak District for future generations.
On a beautiful spring morning during the Easter weekend, I went on a hunt. It was not an egg hunt, as you would expect, but on a ghost hunt.
Driving through the peak district fills me with serenity at the best of times. Still, today I’m on a journey to find a little hidden gem.
Cromford in Derbyshire.
Cr: Kayleigh Northall.
Meandering through Matlock and on through the high-cliffed valley of Matlock Bath you arrive at a village called Cromford. find more information about Cromford and the surrounding area https://visitpeakdistrict.com/locations/cromford
The Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.
Cromford famous for its mills and it’s connection to Richard Arkwright. Cromford is known as the cradle or birthplace of the industrial revolution.
Via Gellia Mill, built by Richard Arkwright.
Cr: Kayleigh Northall.
This area of Derbyshire is known for its cotton mills. The industry is long gone but the structures still continue. Some of the buildings have been adapted into museums, some stand empty, vulnerable to the elements. Most of the mills have been split into smaller units and repurposed into smaller industries. Ironically, this can be seen as an extension to the cottage industry which the mills and industrial revolution decimated.
Via Gellia mill, Cromford. Cr: Kayleigh Northall.
The building is said to be as haunted as the ghostly creations inside. The mill has seen centuries of history. It was originally a cotton mill built by Richard Arkwright in the late 18th century. In 1890, Hollins & Company took over the mill. They began producing the famous Viyella fabric. This fabric is a blend of wool and cotton. Many people have walked the wooden floors. Creaks are said to be heard in places where no living person has tread. As producing cotton was a heavy manual labour industry which famously had child labours, fatalities and industrial accidents were prevalent. Deaths would occur in the mills; some would say leaving an imprint on the fabric of the building. The spirits of some have remained and you feel their presence in this shop.
In the old Via Gellia Mill, there is a ramp at the side of the mill pond. Up this ramp lies the Matlock Ghost Emporium of Spirits and Secrets.
Little Shop of Cute Horrors.
A quaint little shop which sells handcrafted apparitions, shelf after shelf and row after row of ghosts all different creations. No two are alike.
Matlock Ghost Emporium
Cr: Kayleigh Northall.
Picking your ghost to take home is a daunting challenge. You are faced with hundreds of little ghosts. They all want to find a home with you. I refused to look at their website. I wanted to find one that I felt an affinity with. That was a task, like walking through a dog adoption facility. I wanted to give them all a home.
A Myriad of Spooks and Spectres.
I scanned the shelves, only glancing at first to see if I relate to any of the hauntings. I realised I was overwhelmed by the choice. It was akin to standing in a forest looking for a tree. Bookshelves full of little ghosts, some friendly, some not, stare out at you. Whilst you study them, you get the overwhelming feeling that they are studying you. On my second round of the little emporium, I found my spook to give a home. I wanted one that embodied or disembodied me. As a lover of books, reading, and writing, I searched for that perfect match. Staring at me was a pastel-coloured ghost with glasses and it was reading a book, perfect.
After picking her out from the rest, I was ushered to the ghost’s photography studio. I positioned my new housemate in the scene and took my photos. This was a cute idea made up by the keeper of the apparitions.
Photography shoot for my ghost.
Cr: Kayleigh Northall.
Possession of a Shy Kind.
I was then asked if I wanted to get my ghost possessed in the S.H.A.D.E machine, spectral holding and displacement equipment. A perfectly decorated machine in which I placed my new friend and closed the door. I pressed the cog, and lights came on and spooky noises were heard coming from the machine. The colour of the light denotes what spectre I have to take home. Blue is a shy ghost. She is my possession. Maybe over time, she will come out of her shell and feel comfortable around me.
The gift wrapping was perfect for the setting. It featured a snuggly box sealed with wax and a complimentary ghost holding an easter egg for Easter. I also received an information leaflet about my ghost, telling me all about her. The shop also has a reward scheme, collect the stamps and get a free ghost. The whole experience was fun, warm, and welcoming, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about their creations.
Walking back outside, I was transported from the world of whimsical and fun, back into the current day. Walking back through the mill towards the car park, I found myself smiling. I was slightly embracing the inner child in myself.
Back home. My new housemate has been introduced to the rest of the family. She has found her space on a shelf in my living room. Hopefully she won’t be shy for long. After the fantastic journey I went on, I know she won’t be lonely for long. I am already planning my next trip.
How to Find your Very Own Ghost.
Find your spooky friend at Matlock Ghost Emporium, a worthwhile and fun experience. If you can’t visit the emporium please visit http://matlockghostemporium.com or look them up on Facebook, Instagram or Threads and read the story behind this collection of apparitions.
Matlock bath is a quiet unassuming village with a seaside feel. Nestled in the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales it is just 1 hour drive from Sheffield. Originally a Victorian spa town it is now more famous for its annual illuminations, firework shows and canoe races.
Matlock bath was originally built at the end of a dirt road running along the river Derwent. The steep hillside construction restricts development. The original dead-end road was upgraded becoming a through-way, now known as the A6.
The development of Matlock Bath really began in 1698. People discovered the possible attraction of thermal water at a constant 68 degrees. Local entrepreneurs built the first ‘bath’ to attract people to the village.
Development and Transport Links.
Development was slow as access to the valley was difficult. The building of a bridge over the Derwent in Matlock improved access. In 1783, they opened the southern end of the valley near Cromford. Additionally, they improved the transport links.
With the arrival of the Midland Railway and the travelling classes came the biggest change to the village. A promenade was built from the station. It runs alongside the river. Since then, people have likened Matlock Bath to a seaside resort without any sea. Hotels sprang up. They offered a variety of spa treatments to the visitors. In the late Victorian period, the spa village attracted many day trippers.
A Royal Visit and a Petrifying Well.
In 1832, Princess Victoria of Kent, later known as Queen Victoria, paid a visit. This visit cemented the location as a society venue of the time. the princess visited the petrifying well.
The well which is still in existence today is rich in minerals. When sprayed onto objects, it will eventually turn those objects into stone. When visiting today you can see a bowler hat, a pint glass among other things turning to stone. In the Victorian era, these objects were much sort after, and the locals used to sell them as curios.
The Derwent Gardens and Lovers Walk prioritized the visitors. For the Queen’s Jubilee in 1887, workers built a bridge across the river.
Lord Byron was a visitor and compared the village to alpine Switzerland, giving its nickname, Little Switzerland.
Local Industy and Attractions.
Alongside the river on the promenade, you can find a variety of cafes. There are also fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours. An old apothecary shop still retains its original features. Within these typical seaside shops, there are amusement arcades and an aquarium where you can see the petrifying well. You come across Gulliver’s kingdom, a unique theme park. It offers adrenaline-fueled adventures. The views are spectacular. The lead mining museum is a fantastic museum and gift shop. Here, you can learn about the history of the Derbyshire mining industry. In the museum, you can take a guided tour of an authentic 1920s lead mine. You can also try your hand at panning for gold. The heights of Abraham are celebrating their 50th anniversary. It is a cable car that travels from the valley all the way to the top of the cliff. At the top of the cliff, a 60-acre hilltop estate awaits. It features underground illuminated caverns. The estate also includes a restaurant. There are adventure playgrounds with heritage gardens. Sculptures are placed throughout the grounds. https://www.heightsofabraham.com/
Gorgeous Gardens and Shaded Walks.
If this is all a bit too busy for you. You can take a stroll along the peaceful shady paths alongside the river Derwent. The riverside gardens and lovers walk along the giddy edge offer gentle strolls away from the crowds. Here you can hire a rowboat and pootle up and down the river.
Derwent gardens accommodate all ages alongside the river. There is a large playground at one end. Benches line the neat and pretty gardens. A Victorian bandstand still stands along with a pond and water spring running into a pool. A quiet sunny space to sit and read or even write this.
Matlock canoe club is based in Matlock bath and was founded in 1984. Slalom events are held at Matlock bath in March and welcomes competitors from all over the U.K. this event is a fulfilled weekend for all ages.
Illuminations and Fireworks, Fun for All Ages.
The Matlock bath illuminations are a popular evening out in September and October. The riverside is decorated with lights. There are decorated boat parades down the river. The cliffs are floodlit which creates a magical scene of colour. On weekends during this time, there are firework displays lighting up the night sky. The noise of the fireworks reverberates off the cliff sides and down the valley. It’s not for those easily spooked by noise. See here for more events https://matlockbathparishcouncil.gov.uk/events/
There is plenty of parking available alongside the river and at the pavilion. For an easier journey, there is a train station with regular trains. There is also a regular bus service (1 an hour) from Sheffield and Chesterfield. As it attracts families, it can be busy on school holidays. Sundays and Bank holidays are extremely busy. Matlock Bath attracts a lot of motorcyclists and is famous for doing so.
Matlock Bath is a designated conservation area with an article 4 direction about properties. Article 4 restricts permitted development rights. It removes all or some of the permitted development rights on a site. https://visitpeakdistrict.com/locations/matlock-matlock-bath
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