What is "Archie" in New Mills?

Buxton is set for a major transformation as developer Capital&Centric submits a full planning application for a £100 million redevelopment of The Springs Shopping Centre.

Working alongside High Peak Borough Council, this ambitious project aims to reshape the town centre with 332 new homes for rent, ranging from townhouses to flats, as well as space for bars, shops, and cafés.

Designed by Stephenson Hamilton Risley Studio, the scheme also features amenities like a gym, mini cinema, co-working space, and new green areas by reopening the River Wye.

Five percent of homes will have reduced rent for locals, and new public toilets and a feature lift will serve Buxton station.

The council plans a separate multi-storey car park with 200 spaces by 2027 to address parking concerns.

A public consultation is set for the coming months.

Buxton Town Hall is at the heart of a rapidly growing community campaign after Derbyshire County Councillor Melandra Smith launched a Change.org petition to stop its potential sale.

The historic Grade II listed building, which has stood since 1889 and was built for the people of Buxton after the original Market Hall burned down, now faces an uncertain future after the council said it’s "no longer fit for purpose."

More than 600 residents have joined the effort within days, seeing the Town Hall as a vital civic landmark and a living piece of the community’s heritage.

The petition urges council leaders to withdraw the building from sale and instead work with local groups to find sustainable, community-driven solutions.

The council says any future owner would need to preserve its historic features.

Motorists who use the A57 Snake Pass should prepare for an 18-day road closure next month, as crucial ground investigation work gets underway at the Doctor’s Gate section.

Derbyshire County Council has announced the full closure from 15th June to 3rd July, impacting the stretch between Derbyshire Level in Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir.

Access will be maintained whenever possible, and the road could reopen early if the work finishes ahead of schedule.

The focus is on the Doctor’s Gate area, a known risk point due to complex geology, part of why Snake Pass is regularly closed by landslips and severe weather.

Councillor Charlotte Hill highlighted the need for detailed investigation to secure the long-term resilience of the A57, working closely with regional authorities.

Drivers are encouraged to plan for delays and consider using the A624 via Hayfield or A6 through Chapel-en-le-Frith as alternatives.

Each year from May to September, the Peak District bursts into colour with the ancient tradition of well dressing.

Villages across Derbyshire craft stunning, intricate artworks from flower petals, leaves, and seeds, giving thanks for the gift of clean water.

Tissington, known as the origin of well dressing, welcomes crowds to view its displays until 20 May, celebrating a custom dating back to the 14th century when its wells were untouched by the Black Death.

Throughout the summer, towns across the High Peak join in, including Buxton, where the Well Dressing Festival runs 5–12 July 2026, and villages like Wirksworth, Bakewell, and Eyam.

This time-honoured tradition draws locals and visitors alike, uniting communities in a vibrant celebration of heritage and nature.

Antony Gray touched countless lives in Buxton as a beloved former PE teacher at St Thomas More Catholic Voluntary Academy.

He passed away at 56 after illness, sparking heartfelt tributes from students, colleagues, and the wider community.

Gray’s dedication defined his 27-year career at the academy, where he inspired sporting excellence and created a network of school partnerships across the High Peak.

He ran dozens of after-school clubs and events, often giving up personal time so students could grow through sport and teamwork.

Outside the classroom, Gray competed in Ironman triathlons worldwide, including in Hawaii, and shared his passion for fitness locally.

Those closest to him remember a devoted husband and father, who met his wife Shelley at the academy and cherished their young daughter.

Gray’s legacy as a mentor, friend, and “champion in every sense” will continue to inspire generations across the High Peak.

May is one of the busiest months in the High Peak, as the well dressing season brings new energy to local villages.

High Peak Open Studios runs from 23rd–25th May, offering art enthusiasts a rare chance to explore 33 creative venues.

You can meet local artists, discover unique works in progress, and buy directly from the makers.

The Buxton International Festival kicks off with its 2026 launch concert on 14th May at the Palace Hotel Ballroom.

This renowned festival promises a full summer schedule of jazz, opera, and literary events across Buxton.

Adventure seekers can join the Maverick Peak District X-Trail in Bakewell on 30th May, racing through dramatic landscapes.

Find further details and a comprehensive event guide at visitpeakdistrict.com.

Bukharaa has quickly become a standout on Market Street in New Mills since its 2024 opening, earning a perfect 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor and the title of the town’s top restaurant.

Its story began in Romiley, with the original Bukharaa Street Zaika becoming a beloved local spot before expanding to New Mills with bold culinary ambitions.

The kitchen team, led by chefs from fine dining restaurants in Central London, delivers Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Signature dishes like the Dumpukht Biryani, fiery Kolhapuri Lamb Chops, and tender Railway Lamb Curry have wowed diners, while small plates such as the Pani Puri and Gobi 63 are local favourites.

On Mondays and Wednesdays, guests can enjoy live music and a value meal deal, making Bukharaa a fresh and vibrant addition to the High Peak dining scene.

At 12, High Street in New Mills, The Gallery stands out as an artist-run cooperative, different from typical galleries.

There are no owners or curators — the 25 artists involved manage every aspect, from staffing the counter to curating displays that change with the seasons.  

When you enter, the person beside you may be the creator of the artwork you admire — from oil paintings and ceramics to jewellery, textiles, and woodturning.  

The Gallery fills a two-floor historic building and has been a local treasure for more than a decade.

Visitors find a broad range of original pieces, including stained glass, prints, hand-knitted items, blacksmithing, and unique cards and gifts.  

Prices range from just a few pounds up to several hundred, making art accessible for all.  

This sustainable, ever-changing space is regularly described as one of the friendliest and most surprising places in New Mills.

The Gallery is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10am–4pm (Thursday until 5:30pm), and closed on Wednesday and Sunday. Find it at 12, High Street, New Mills, SK22 4AL. Tel: 01663 309039.

It's the nickname for the community-owned Torrs Hydro, a reverse Archimedean screw micro hydroelectric scheme at the Torr Weir on the River Goyt, generating electricity.