In spring 2015, Shirebrook found itself in the news for negative reasons. Resentment at the growing number of migrant workers recruited by Sports Direct, and the pressures that put on the existing community, resulted in demonstrations that hit the headlines.

Bolsover has a history of Polish immigration when Polish flyers stayed on after WWII and brought up families here who are now fully integrated. But the lower wages the new immigrants were prepared to accept, and the numbers coming, put increasing pressure on services like housing, health and education as well as public order. The less responsible landlords were quick to take advantage of this new market and the council had to take action on overcrowding and safety issues.