About Chesterfield

Chesterfield welcomes new East Midlands Mayor

13th May 2024

The first Mayor of the newly created East Midlands Combined County Authority has been welcomed to her new office in Chesterfield.

Claire Ward, who was elected to the position this month, has moved into the new interim mayoral headquarters based at Chesterfield Borough Council’s flagship office development, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has been created as part of the devolution deal between the Government and the four upper tier councils of Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council – working closely with local authorities across the region, including Chesterfield Borough Council.

The EMCCA has been given powers, functions and funding worth £1.14 billion from the Government. It means that decisions about investment in our areas, which are currently taken by central government, will be made locally. But it is estimated that the region will unlock around £4bn of funding over the coming years because of this devolution deal.

Local authorities still exist as individual councils but the new Combined County Authority, led by the new regional Mayor, will work with all councils across the area to deliver the best possible outcomes for the residents and businesses. There will also be opportunities for private, public, and voluntary sector organisations to contribute and have their voices heard.

As part of the devolution deal, the EMCCA must have a directly elected mayor. A key part of the role is to act as an advocate and global ambassador for the Combined County Authority area and the 2.2 million residents who live here. The Mayor’s term of office will run for four years.

Prior to meeting staff at the office in the heart of Chesterfield, the new Mayor signed a Declaration of Acceptance of Office at Bolsover Castle, signalling the start of her duties.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I welcome Claire Ward to her new position as EMCCA Mayor, and we’re delighted that the combined authority has chosen Chesterfield – and our flagship Northern Gateway Centre – as the home for their region-wide operations.

“In Chesterfield, we’re committed to ensuring that our communities benefit from the opportunities created under devolution, and regional investment. We’re working with other local councils to build on our existing partnerships, and we look forward to building even stronger relationships with our regional leaders and networks to ensure we have a strong voice and influence in the East Midlands Combined County Authority.”

Amanda Mays, Interim People and Operations Lead at East Midlands Combined County Authority, said: “The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is a fantastic office space, with great facilities for our East Midlands Combined County Authority’s growing team.

“Chesterfield is one of many great towns in our region – it boasts a rich industrial heritage and will be a key pillar for our economic growth strategy over the coming years. We’re delighted to call it home.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “I would like to congratulate Claire Ward on her election as Mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority. The board and team at Destination Chesterfield are looking forward to working with our new Mayor to attract further investment to the region, raise the profile of our visitor economy and support our indigenous business to innovate and grow.

“The borough of Chesterfield has an ambitious growth strategy and has an important role to play in achieving the region’s ambitions.

“We are very pleased that the new East Midlands Combined County Authority will be based here in the heart of Chesterfield. The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre boasts excellent facilities and is already home to dozens of brilliant businesses, so I am confident that the centre will provide an excellent base for Claire and her dedicated team.”

If you are a business looking for office space, the Invest in Chesterfield service will help you discover the perfect locations in and around Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction

Business brings a splash of colour to Chesterfield town centre

13th May 2024

The Colour Collective Pottery Painting & Well-Being Studio has recently opened a new shop in the heart of Chesterfield town centre.

The new studio on Rose Hill offers pottery painting for all ages alongside a therapy room offering a range of holistic and complementary therapies.

Carla Macmillan, Owner, said, ” I provide a relaxing and inspiring environment to be creative.”

“You don’t have to be a highly skilled artist to be able to create something to be proud of.”

“Pots can make unique gifts with baby foot and hand prints.”

“I also have a therapy room upstairs offering numerous holistic and complementary therapies. Such as reflexology, different massage including aromatherapy and reiki.”

The Colour Collective joins several businesses that have recently chosen to invest in Chesterfield Town Centre.

These include the Soresby Street Cafe, a modern venue with a relaxed ambience.

Cards Direct at Vicar Lane offering greeting cards, gifts and partyware.

Hotpod Yoga became the first tenant to locate the new units created in the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

Eclectic Delights of Serendipity, a quirky independent store, opened its doors, selling gifts and other unique items.

Carla continued, ” I started my pottery painting journey in Bakewell, I wanted to be in Chesterfield, and once a shop became available that I could afford, I jumped at the chance.”

“I love being part of the community in Chesterfield. I always feel safe and supported here.”

“Chesterfield has such a unique character that is great for visitors to come and experience while looking around lovely shops that reflect its character. ”

If you are considering a location for your business, the Invest in Chesterfield service can support you in finding the perfect location for your business in Chesterfield. Visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/invest to express your interest and discover more about joining Chesterifeld’s business community.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions highlight local wellbeing support ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week

10th May 2024

Chesterfield businesses are taking centre stage in championing mental health awareness.

Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 (13th -19th May), we’re shining a light on the proactive measures undertaken by our local organisations to nurture the well-being of their employees and residents across our town.

Chesterfield boasts a number of assets to support mental and physical wellbeing, including award-winning parks and green spaces, the town’s proximity to the Peak District National Park, and of course the overall sense of community and togetherness amongst our people. Did you know Chesterfield was recently ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands?

In our conversations with Chesterfield Champions, we explore the diverse ways in which businesses, public sector organisations and our local charity and voluntary sectors are fostering mental health awareness and support within our community.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Karlie Thompson, Associate Director of Communications at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS FT commented: “Here at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, we are an anchor institute for the town and employ more than 5,000 colleagues; we are therefore a key player in the wider health and care system and we are committed to supporting mental health across all our partners.

“We pride ourselves on prioritising the health and wellbeing of our colleagues and our wider community. This includes our commitment to colleagues through 24/7 support services and a £2m Health and Wellbeing Hub with gym and counselling facilities on the hospital site to signage in ED which research shows reduces anxiety and worry as it explains what each section of the department does, what might happen to you in that area and who may treat you. We also have unique, tailored, sections of the department which are specifically designed to support those in mental health crisis.

“Help is there when people are in need and it takes many forms from reaching out through NHS111 to speaking to your doctor. The best place for people suffering with mental health is probably not our Emergency Department, equally, we would encourage anybody feeling they need support to reach out.”

Junction Arts

Emily Bowman, Managing Director at Junction Arts said: “Wellbeing underlines everything we do at Junction Arts, when planning our events, festivals and projects we always consider how we can improve people’s mental wellbeing, whether that’s building young people’s confidence and self-esteem with our Six Pillars and Next Gen projects or combatting loneliness and isolation with our successful warm space, Cosy Crafts initiative earlier this year. We know that being creative and connecting with people can benefit our mental health.

“But mental health is not isolated to the communities we work in, it’s an important issue that can impact our team and volunteers – without them we can’t do the great work we do. By talking more about our mental health we can dispel the stigma and misconceptions and encourage hope by sharing stories of recovery as well as the struggle. The more we do this, the more chance there is for positive change.”

Fairplay

In support of staff mental health wellbeing, Fairplay are working closely with local charity RELATE, and Derby university students to offer counselling sessions for it’s employees.

Fairplay work hard to promote staff wellbeing and offer support to staff through supervisions and 1:1 meetings. Fairplay have designated qualified Mental Health First Aiders who are available for support throughout the working week and also outside of working hours so that employees are able to reach out and talk to someone if they are struggling with their mental health wellbeing.

Fairplay’s HR Officer Nikki Lowe said: “supporting the wellbeing of our staff is very high on the agenda for Fairplay, and alongside internal support from qualified staff we are now working with local organisations to offer staff members additional support from external sources via RELATE counselling and level 5 trainee counsellor and psychotherapy students from Derby university.

“It is important that we all support one another, and to coincide with the counselling sessions being offered Fairplay have implemented a ‘mental health awareness process’ where all staff members have been given a badge with a green heart on which can be worn if they are having a particularly bad day or struggling with something, so that colleagues are aware that they are not feeling 100%.

“This visual aid will hopefully encourage staff members to be supportive of their colleagues and be a reminder to all that kindness costs nothing and a little ‘I’m here if you need me’ goes a long way.”

Chesterfield Canal Trust

One of Chesterfield’s most picturesque locations, the Chesterfield Canal is an excellent way to boost your wellbeing.

You can enjoy a scenic walk along the towpath, have a quick drink or bite to eat at Holloingwood Hub, or even head out onto the water via a tranquil canal cruise or paddle boarding session.

Rod Auton, Scretary of Chesterfield Canal Trust said: “The Chesterfield Canal is seen as a safe and calm space by many local residents. Many come to Hollingwood Hub to visit Katey’s Coffee Shop, to sit in the beautiful gardens tended by volunteers and to enjoy a boat trip.

“Successive Covid lockdowns brought home to many of the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s volunteers just how important the companionship of being in a team and working for a common cause can be to enhancing one’s mental wellbeing.”

The organisations included in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield Mental Health, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Mental Health Awareness Week

Save the dates – Peddler Market returns to Chesterfield this May and July

9th May 2024

Chesterfield town centre will be buzzing in May and July as Peddler Market returns for two more weekend events this summer.

The popular street food market will be in New Square on 17 to18 May and 19 to 20 July. These are the final events for 2024 as the multi-million pound regeneration of the town centre is expected to start over the summer.

Ben Smith, Director at Peddler Market, said: “We are looking forward to signing off the summer with a bang! Peddler offers a fantastic opportunity to meet up with friends and family in the heart of the town centre; enjoy a drink, sample some of the UK’s most exciting street food talent and soak up the atmosphere from the live stage.

“With New Square being rejuvenated later this summer, we are happy to have provided a blueprint for how street food can play a pivotal role in transforming Chesterfield’s night-time economy in years to come.”

There will be a fantastic range of award-winning street food from around the world at the event in May.

Syiok-Lah will be serving up authentic Malyasian cuisine, Get Wurst will be offering German style Currywurst and Bratwurst, Cow Boys will be bringing brilliant burgers, The Spicy Biker will have a range of Indian street food, Brúm Mì will be dishing out East Asian street food, Luigi will be offering a taste of Italy with Arancini and Panzerotti, De Boeuf will be slicing up their mature beef, Madame Crêpe will have a range of fresh crepes and Vanilla Bean will be serving coffee and baked treats.

The weekend also features a strong line-up of live music with something for everyone to enjoy including, indie-rock band The N.S.O, folkie singer-songwriter Jack Weston, pop punk outfit 2x Fast, Viva La Vintage who performs a mixture of classic soul, swing and rock n roll, singer songwriter Masha Jana, and unique band Honey Trap, with some more acts still to be confirmed.

On Saturday Sunflower Dance will be providing family friendly entertainment with a dance workshop designed for children.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Peddler Market has been a unique event in our town, and I know lots of people have come out to support the three events so far. I hope to see lots of returning faces and new visitors come along in May and July to show their support for this fantastic event before we start work on the regeneration of the town centre.

“These events are a fantastic way to kickstart your summer in Chesterfield with your friends and families.”

The Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project will see extensive works to key town centre areas to support a range of uses including markets, events, festivals and more. The work is due to start in summer 2024 in the Market Place.

Funding to help bring the event to Chesterfield has been provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Chesterfield Borough Council received £2.69m of UKSPF funding which will be invested across the borough. A portion of this will be invested into promoting the borough as a place to visit, and providing support for arts, culture, and heritage activities.

Planning on visiting Chesterfield on a Peddler Market weekend? Find out more about what’s on offer in the town here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield Days out, chesterfield events, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Peddler Market, Summer in Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield, Visit Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s 383rd Mayor sworn in

9th May 2024

Councillor Jenny Flood has begun her term of office as Chesterfield’s 383^rd Mayor, taking over the position as the borough’s civic head for the coming year.

Cllr Flood was sworn in at Chesterfield Borough Council’s Annual Council Meeting on Wednesday 8 May, with a Civic Parade on Saturday 11 May.

Councillor Flood’s friend and Community Liaison Officer Heather Hopkinson takes on the role of Mayoress. Cllr Barry Dyke has been appointed as Deputy Mayor with his with wife Marie Dyke serving as Deputy Mayoress.

Chesterfield residents are invited to come and celebrate Chesterfield’s new Mayor at the annual Civic Parade which will take place from 10.15am on Saturday 11 May in the town centre.

Councillor Flood, said: “It is a wonderful honour to be Chesterfield’s Mayor, I look forward to getting around the borough and meeting local residents and celebrating our community. I’m also pleased to be able to use my position to raise funds for three incredible charities that do amazing work in our community.”

The Mayor’s Appeal will be raising funds for Derbyshire Law Centre, Chesterfield Royal Charity, supporting staff’s Health and Well Being post Covid and Rural Action Derbyshire’s Feeding Chesterfield initiative.

The Civic Parade is an opportunity to celebrate the new Mayor. The parade will leave from the Town Hall on Rose Hill at 10.40am and will head through the town centre to the Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire) where there will be a service at 11am. At noon the parade will return to the Town Hall.

There will be several dignitaries from across Derbyshire in attendance at the parade, along with Freemen, Aldermen, and former Mayors of Chesterfield, and groups such as the Royal British Legion and uniformed youth organisations.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the parade and church service, with seats being allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Councillor Flood replaces Councillor Mick Brady and Councillor Suzie Perkins who served as Mayor and Mayoress for the 2023 to 2024 civic year.

About the Mayor, Councillor Jenny Flood

Jenny was born in Lincolnshire, the youngest of three children, her career has been shaped by her parents whose own careers focused on health, supporting those in need and Care of orphaned children. After taking her A Levels, Jenny started her career as a Student Nurse at University College Hospital, London, where she became a Staff Nurse, Union Representative, a Clinical Teacher, and a Ward Sister specialising in the care for the elderly. Jenny later progressed to Nether Edge Hospital in Sheffield to open the Stroke Unit and manage the Acute Unit as Assistant Matron, resulting in moving to Hasland, where she was closer to her sister.

Jenny made a career change when she married her late husband, Raymond. Becoming a full-time trade union official for COHSE in the Trent region, was the Women’s Officer, TULO Representative and the representative on East Midlands Region Labour Party where she became Chair. She was elected to serve on the English National Board, the then part of the United Kingdom Central Nursing Council and following the union merger was the UNISON Officer for health branches in North & South Derbyshire, Central Notts, South Lincolnshire, several Ambulance Branches, and the University of Derby.

Jenny loved going to concerts, the theatre visiting preserved steam train lines, historical sites with her late husband, Raymond, and spending time together on various holidays to the coast, the countryside and abroad, including sailing with friends around the Greek islands. Jenny has one son, Nathan and a daughter-in-law, Joanna. Jenny has a wonderful grandson, Arthur and a granddaughter on the way. In her spare time, Jenny loves swimming, tapestry, baking and being a nanna to her grandson.

In 2011 after her retirement, Jenny stood for Rother Ward and has been re-elected ever since. She has served on several committees and was Chair of the Scrutiny Committee. She is active in her community, influencing the development of parks and the setting up the Rother Active Youth Club to provide holiday activities and food to young children. She was responsible for helping set up Gussies Kitchen, a not-for-profit social eating café, which provided free food to 300 households weekly throughout the pandemic and now Gussies Pantry is providing a weekly food shop for those in food poverty. She is also Chair and a Trustee for Derbyshire Law Centre.

Jenny feels it is important to help young people achieve their potential and have opportunities and experiences that enable them to have the necessary support and chances through education, provision of skills and learn the importance of community, equality and teamwork.

About the Mayoress, Heather Hopkinson

Heather has lived in Chesterfield all her life she attended primary school in Inkersall and then went to Netherthorpe School until completing sixth form. She began her working career at Inkersall Green School on a Youth Training Scheme working with children with additional needs. Through this work she knew she had found her niche working with children and started to gain more experience in youth work.

Heather attended the University of Derby as a mature student and gained a qualification in Youth and Community, Heather never looked back and has been working with children and families for over 30 years. Throughout her career she has always worked in communities in and around Chesterfield engaging children and families in a variety of settings working as a multi-agency worker, Teaching Assistant and youth worker predominantly in the Rother area and many years ago this was how her path crossed with Jenny.

Heather currently works as a Community Liaison Officer at Parkside Secondary School and is known as a caring, hardworking, proactive and adaptable person committed to making a positive impact to all that she meets. Heather has always strived to make a positive difference to people’s lives and help fulfil their aspirations.

She is a mother to three wonderful children Sarah, Leanne and Jamie. Her fiancé Stephen has two children Jack and Laurie, Heather loves to spend time with all four grandsons and her family means a great deal to her.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, Visiting

Chesterfield firms encouraged to apply for AI skills grants

9th May 2024

The government has launched a scheme enabling businesses across the UK to futureproof their teams, by accessing funding for AI skills.

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) recently announced a £7.4 million pilot scheme to subsidise the cost of AI skills training for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Professional Business Services sector. £6.4 million of grant funding is available.

Through this pilot programme, eligible business can apply for funding for up to 50% of the cost of AI skills training. This is training which supports employees to develop their technical skills and/or understanding of AI to be able to develop, deploy, or use AI in their role. The application window is open until 31 May.

Artificial Intelligence holds huge opportunities to drive productivity and prosperity across the UK economy. It has the potential to increase UK GDP by up to 10.3% by 2030 – the equivalent of an additional £232 billion – and businesses who adopt AI are more likely to be successful than those that do not.

But evidence shows that a lack of AI skills in businesses is hindering AI adoption, in part due to low investment in AI upskilling in UK businesses, particularly in smaller companies.

The new pilot programme will test whether training SMEs in AI maximises the value of adoption AI. Specifically, whether government support in the form of match-funding is an effective way of increasing employer-led upskilling in AI, and whether increased skills translate into AI adoption and firm-level productivity benefits.

Specifically, the pilot has the following objectives:

1. To stimulate employer investment in AI training
2. To address AI skills gaps in the UK workforce limiting AI adoption
3. To measure the impact of AI upskilling on business productivity and outcomes

The funding competition is open to applicants who:

Are registered and operate in the UK
Employ between 1-249 employees in the UK
Are defined as an SME per the BEIS SME Action Plan
Have been operating for at least 1 year
Are able to match-fund 50% of the cost of the training, and
Operate in the Professional and Business Services (PBS) sector

To find out more and apply for the support, go to: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flexible-ai-upskilling-fund

For more information on business support, funding and training available to Chesterfield businesses, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in AI training, business funding, business grants, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, chesterfield news

International Horse Trials set to return to Chatsworth

9th May 2024

Chatsworth is set to host its annual showcase of world class equestrian action this month, with a variety of entertainment and activities on offer during the much-loved three-day event.

The Chatsworth International Horse Trials sees the return of the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, where the world’s best riders will tackle Chatsworth’s technical cross-country course, alongside elite dressage and show jumping competitions.

The challenging cross-country course is always a firm favourite, but the event also offers a range of activities for all ages and abilities including; the Shetland Grand National; have-a-go dog shows where visitors can let furry friends explore courses designed to test speed and agility; as well as the entertaining and educational sheep shows hosted by New Zealander Richard Savory and birds of prey displays from The Yorkshire Countryman.

This year will also see the return of the hugely popular shopping village and fine food walk, home to specialist retailers, as well as local businesses and artisan makers offering the finest crafts, homewares, gifts and more.

Throughout the weekend, families can enjoy wall climbing and face painting, as well as channelling their own artistic talents at drop-in pottery painting sessions to create their own piece of art to take home. For those wanting to explore beyond the event, the house and garden are open as usual, as is the farmyard, where younger visitors can learn more about their favourite friendly animals including goats, guinea pigs and chickens, and discover a number of Chatsworth’s rare breeds including Suffolk Punch horses and the majestic Cream Legbar Chickens.

From the farmyard, young adventurers can take the secret tunnel to the recently refurbished woodland adventure playground, including the newly opened tall towers and slides, as well as a climbing wall, zip wire and dedicated area for younger children, providing hours of adventure. Children can enjoy ascending to the top of the towers for a bird’s-eye view amongst the treetops and climbing into the huge Great Spotted Woodpecker – a reflection of the spectacular nature which surrounds Chatsworth.

Patricia Clifton, Chatsworth International Horse Trials, said: “The International Horse Trials is always a firm favourite in our events calendar. We’re proud to once again play host to some of the world’s best riders with the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, but beyond eventing there is so much more for all ages to enjoy – from supporting local artisan makers to marvelling at the Sheep Show Hustle!

“Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for a fun day out for the whole family, or a seasoned equestrian enthusiast, there’s truly something for everyone!”

General admission tickets for adults are priced at £17.50 for Friday and £35 on Saturday or Sunday, and children’s tickets are £11. All tickets include free parking and child prices are for ages 5-15 inclusive. Admission is free to carers who are visiting with the person they care for.

The family event is part of Chatsworth‘s theme for 2024 – ‘Celebrating Childhood’, which includes a host of activities including a family festival from 25-27 May and the Picturing Childhood exhibition in the house, aiming to encourage visitors to experience Chatsworth from a new perspective.

The 2024 Chatsworth International Horse Trials are sponsored by Delarki, an investment firm specialising in creating and investing in early-stage premium food and beverage opportunities.

For more information, please visit https://www.chatsworth.org/events/horse-trials/

Planning your trip to Chesterfield and North Derbyshire? Take a look at the range of events and activities available here in Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chatsworth Horse Trials, Chatsworth House, chesterfield business news, chesterfield events, chesterfield news

5 fabulous events taking place in Chesterfield this May

8th May 2024

As the warmth of summer draws near, it’s time to start planning some exciting adventures for your family here in Chesterfield.

Things are really heating up across our town, with excitement and adventure for families of all shapes and sizes.

So this May, mark your calendars, pack a picnic, and get ready to create unforgettable memories together at these fabulous events.

Peddler Market

This month sees the fourth instalment of the iconic Peddler Market in Chesterfield town centre on the 17^th and 18^th May.

This great event has made itself right at home in New Square, so if you’ve not been yet, make sure you head along and try some delicious food and drink whilst enjoying live music, entertainment and crafts.

Chesterfield Craft and Makers Market

The 18^th May will also see the Chesterfield Craft and Makers Market arriving back in town, with plenty of opportunities for you to pick up unique products and gifts from local independents.

Dine on seasonal food offerings and browse handmade gifts, whilst helping to support our brilliant local producers!

Chesterfield Canal Cruises

Chesterfield Canal

If you’re after a bit of relaxation, a leisurely journey along the picturesque Chesterfield Canal will be the perfect way to unwind – as the special Canal Cruises are back in full swing.

Gather the family and hop aboard for a relaxing cruise through stunning scenery. Look out for the Fish and Chips Special cruises too taking place on selected dates – a perfect setting for a meal with family or friends.

Rail Ale Festival

Rail Ale Festival – Image Credit: Paul Bigland sml

We can’t talk about the wonderful events happening this May without mentioning the fabulous Rail Ale Festival at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

The annual celebration will give you or a loved one the chance to discover a vast array of real ales, craft beers, and refreshing beverages to sample. The event always promises some fantastic entertainment, too.

Rock music fans will love pumping their fists and stamping their feet to a tribute to the world-famous AC/DC at the ‘Rail Ale Rock Night’ on Thursday, 16^th May.

Chesterfield Walking Festival

Our final pick for the month is one for families who love the great outdoors. Lace up your walking shoes and join in the fun at the Chesterfield Area Walking Festival.

Choose from a variety of guided walks from the 11^th-19^th May catering to all ages and abilities, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes.

For more information on all the events happening locally, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield events, chesterfield news, Derbyshire events, Events in Chesterfield, Events in the Peak District, Love Chesterfield, things to do in Chesterfield, Things to do in Derbyshire, Things to do in the Peak District

730,000 sq ft development to create further jobs in Chesterfield

7th May 2024

A major new industrial development, situated next to Chesterfield’s successful Markham Vale Scheme has been announced.

Nova, based next to the M1 at Junction 29a in Chesterfield is set to be a thriving new base for businesses in the East Midlands.

Nova has been built on 20 years of work creating the neighbouring Markham Vale. Both have been created in partnership between HBD and Devonshire Estates, with a view of creating two well-connected units totalling 730,000 sq ft – spaces that will further boost local employment and the economy.

Nova will be sustainable, with buildings aiming for BREEAM Excellent with PV panels and EV charging. Environmental efforts include 10% biodiversity net gain and improving local habitats at other nearby sites in collaboration with Chesterfield Council.

Greenspace is an important element of the new scheme, with significant planting to include around 5,700 new trees, including more than 2ha of new woodland planting, almost 4ha of new grassland habitat and 2km of new native hedgerow to screen the development. Local residents can be assured that greenery will be a key focus as part of this development and public rights of way will remain.

Two new units are set to be developed at Nova. Unit A will comprise a 230,122 sq ft warehouse, 12,500 sq ft two storey offices, 163 parking spaces, 21 dock levellers, 4 level access doors and= 15m max eaves height.

Unit B will include a 466,766 sq ft warehouse, 25,000 sq ft two storey offices, 300 parking spaces, 42 dock levellers, 4 level access doors and 18m max eaves height.

Nova will build on the success of Markham Vale, which now employs 2,200 people across multiple units. The site also boasts a potential workforce of more than 300,000 people within 30 miles.

Being centrally located in Chesterfield, Nova is situated close to several major cities, along with convinient transport links to major ports and airports:

Sheffield – 21 miles
Nottingham – 26 miles
Derby – 28 miles
East Midlands Airport – 35 miles
Leeds – 50 miles
Port of Hull – 69 miles

For more information on investment opportunities available in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/ or email invest@chesterfield.co.uk

HBD and Devonshire Estates support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Invest in Chesterfield, Nova

United Cast Bar achieves King’s Award for Enterprise

7th May 2024

Chesterfield’s United Cast Bar (UK) has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

The company, which is Europe’s largest manufacturer of continuously cast iron bar, is one of 252 organisations nationally to be recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise.

Considered the most prestigious awards for UK businesses, receiving a King’s Award for Enterprise is a globally acknowledged royal seal of approval for UK companies.

United Cast Bar’s King’s Award recognises the company’s outstanding achievement in international trade. Established in 1998, United Cast Bar (UK) has risen to become a market leader in the production of continuously cast flake and nodular graphite iron.

More than 90% of the cast iron bar produced at the company’s foundry and worldwide headquarters in Chesterfield, is exported to Europe and further afield, including North America, South Africa, and multiple locations in the far east.

Delighted to be recognised, James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Foundries, said: “The team and I are over the moon. It is recognition for our continued product development and commitment to producing a high quality product that has enabled us to open new markets around the world and trade competitively internationally.”

Part of the United Cast Bar Group of companies. United Cast Bar (UK) is considered as a pioneer in the production of continuously cast iron bar. Since 2014 it has held the World Record for producing the largest continuously cast bar of iron.

Most recently the company has invested more than £5 million in new equipment at its Chesterfield site where it employs 100 people.

“Having a King’s Award for Enterprise gives us a further platform to develop and grow the business internationally. There are exciting times ahead for United Cast Bar,” added James.

Lucinda White, owner of Chesterfield-based Pure Awards who wrote and submitted United Cast Bar’s application to the King’s Award for Enterprise process last year, said: “It was a pleasure to work with James and the team at United Cast Bar preparing this very prestigious award entry. Whilst there is never a guarantee of success, we were confident the company had a strong story to share and that their achievements in the recent years expanding their international trade operations were worthy of this award.

“We are thrilled with the result, which is another achievement of our own in helping more Derbyshire businesses gain recognition as first time entrants. It’s a great effort and brilliant result for everyone involved.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are awarded to businesses for outstanding achievement in four categories: International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility). Entries to the annual awards

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 58th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country, with successful businesses able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.

Applications for King’s Awards for Enterprise 2025 open on His Majesty The King’s Coronation, 6th May 2024. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise.

United Cast Bar and Pure Awards support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

James Brand, United Cast Bar

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, King's Award, King's Award for Enterprise, Love Chesterfield, Pure Awards, United Cast Bar

X17 bus service to begin taking visitors to Matlock Farm Park

3rd May 2024

The well-known X17 bus route which serves Chesterfield, Sheffield, Barnsley and Matlock will soon be adding Matlock Farm Park to its list of destinations.

The addition of Matlock Farm Park to the route will begin on 12^th May, giving people the chance to visit the park all year round. The X17 will stop at the park twice a day for both outward journeys (stopping mid-morning and lunchtime), and return journeys (lunchtime and late afternoon).

Matlock Farm Park offers farmyard fun for all ages, all year round, in the fresh air and tranquility of the countryside. Families can meet, feed and cuddle a number of different animals, and there is plenty to keep the little ones busy, including an indoor play barn and outdoor play areas.

The park also is home to the UK’s largest Jumping Pillow, go-karts, a shop and cafe. Visitors can meet sheep, goats, pigs and donkeys to more exotic animals, such as wallabies, rhea birds, emus and meerkats.

Lotty Hawkins, Communications Manager at Matlock Farm Park said: “We are so delighted to be included on the well known X17 bus route. We’ve tried a few times over the years to get interest for a bus service and it is Stagecoach who’ve come up trumps, really listening to our needs.

“Many visitors just don’t have access to a car and there have been occasions when we’ve actually gone out with a car to rescue a stressed lone parent with a toddler in a pram, as they’ve been trying to walk from a bus stop over a mile away down roads without a footpath and fast moving traffic.

“Not only this, but there is definitely increasing interest in using public transport to be more green and to enjoy a relaxing bus journey through the surrounding beautiful countryside.”

“We really hope visitors will make great use of the service – they’ll benefit too by receiving 10% off individual adult, child and concession farm park day tickets, including mid-week term time offers, when purchasing them on the door and presenting their bus ticket for that day’s travel.”

Planning a visit to Chesterfield or North Derbyshire? Make the most of your trip by checking out our visiting page.

Matlock Farm Park supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield buses, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield transport, Love Chesterfield, Matlock Farm Park