About Chesterfield

BRM corporate team completes over £85 Million of deals in 12 Months

Regional law firm, BRM has completed more than £85 million in corporate deals in the last 12 months.

BRM’s corporate team, led by Executive Director Sarah Rowland, brought in more than £85 million in high-profile transactions during 2023. The deals spanned a variety of sectors including healthcare, construction, logistics, energy and transport.

Completing more than 20 large transactions last year, BRM, which has offices in Chesterfield and Sheffield, advised on deals including supporting Classic Lifts on one sale and two purchases including their acquisition of Southern Counties Lifts.

2023 also saw the firm’s corporate team advise Synecore Ltd in their sale to H.I.G Capital, as well as advising Sheffield-based All Seasons Energy in their acquisition by Swedish counterpart, Aira.

BRM Executive Director Sarah Rowland predicts another strong year in 2024: “In 2023, we saw a positive deal flow which has been reflected in the volume of deals we managed to complete.

“Although a demanding and busy period, our team has risen to the challenges to provide first-class specialist corporate legal advice to our clients.

“We have had the pleasure of working with some of our long-standing clients in getting their deals over the line and helping them with their strategic goals.

“We predict a buoyant 2024, with yet again another solid pipeline of deals across a variety of sectors. We look forward to another strong year.”

BRM Supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

BRM rebrand

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£114,000 awarded to Chesterfield community groups

Over £114,000 worth of funding has now been awarded to community groups and local voluntary organisations in Chesterfield as part of a scheme designed help deliver grassroots projects that will improve life for local people.

A further £54,272 has now been awarded to 18 local groups via Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Funding scheme – and applications have now reopened, meaning even more groups could benefit from funding support.

The funding which has been awarded in the latest round of grants has gone to groups including:

  • Treasures Nursery
  • Edge Ministries
  • Poolsbrook Club Community Committee
  • WORTH (Women on the road to Recovery)
  • Redeemer King Church
  • Global Adventure
  • Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA)
  • Rother Active Youth (RAY) Club
  • Standing Tall Support
  • Brimington Little Stars
  • Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust (CFCCT)
  • Pleasley Canoe and Outdoor Activity Club
  • Kakou CIC
  • Monkwood Community Food Hub
  • Boythorpe Community Association
  • Stonegravels Parish Centre
  • Links CVS

Funding for the grants scheme has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

The funding will support the local groups to deliver projects that will help to build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help to tackle food poverty and social isolation.

It will also support projects that will help reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices – in support of the council’s target to be a carbon neutral borough by 2050.

Funding can also be used by community projects to develop volunteering opportunities, help people prepare to get in to work, and to support organisations to expand their reach into different areas of the borough.

It builds on the positive work being delivered in the community since almost £60,000 was shared with 16 community and voluntary organisations in 2023.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re really lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield. They really do make a difference to the lives of local people, so I am pleased that we can use the funding we have received through UKSPF and CIL to provide them with these grants to help them achieve their goals.

“It’s been great to watch the progress made by projects that were supported through the first round of Community Grant funding, we look forward to seeing how the new allocation will help more local groups deliver vital projects that will help our communities continue to thrive.”

One of the latest groups to benefit from funding is Edge Ministries, who will be delivering an ‘open living room’ to provide advice and support for residents in Duckmanton. Deputy CEO, Karen Tullett, said: “This funding has helped us to deploy some of our team to Duckmanton on a Monday to run an open living room warm welcome space.

“We offer unlimited tea and coffee and good chat, along with toast and biscuits – all completely free of charge and with a friendly smile! We love hanging out with people who live in Ducky, work out how else we may be able to serve them and support the community- both practically and spiritually.”

Applications for the third round of funding are now open, allowing even more eligible organisations to apply for grant funding, with grants ranging from £500 to £6,000.  The deadline for applications is Friday 29 March 2024.

Full details on funding, eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-ukspf/community-grants-fund.aspx

The community grants are just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after we were successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

town hall drone shot

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Chesterfield Champions announce growth, award nominations, partnerships and new services

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions are continuing to support growth, community and collaboration across the area, with several new initiatives announced by local firms.

Read more from Start Financial Planning, Superior Wellness, Rodgers Leask, Banner Jones Solicitors and Chesterfield FC in our latest roundup:

Spireites agree extended shirt sponsorship deal with Leengate Valves

Leengate Valves Chesterfield FC

An extended sponsorship deal has been agreed which will see the Leengate Valves logo continue to feature on the front of Chesterfield FC’s home and away shirts for the next two seasons.

Steve Pickering, managing director of Leengate Valves said: “We’ve done it for the last two years and are keen to keep the association going, with hopefully a return to the EFL during that time.

“We’ve received so much publicity in the last two seasons and it’s a good feeling to see so many shirts with Leengates Valves on around the town and whenever we go to away games.

“We’ve been associated with the club for so long – around 34 years now – and it’s been the highlight this year, really.

“It’s fantastic to see the quality of the football and the smiles around the stadium. It’s just a happy feeling. Wherever you go, everybody is talking about Chesterfield Football Club.”

Bridget Ball, the club’s marketing manager, said: “I would like to thank Steve, Leigh, Mick and everyone at Leengate Valves for their valued, ongoing support.

“Thanks also go to our supporters who have purchased shirts in unprecedented numbers this season. We look forward to unveiling next season’s kits in April and I’m sure they will be equally as popular.”

Start Financial Planning welcomes Charlotte Reynolds as new adviser

Start Financial Planning Charlotte Reynolds

Start Financial Planning has welcomed Charlotte Reynolds as it expands its services to clients in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.

Charlotte brings more than 20 years’ experience in financial services to Chesterfield based Start FP.

Her work includes advising individual clients and corporates, including developing company pension schemes and other employee benefits.

Charlotte has experience of every level of financial planning. She began her career working as an administrator and progressed through roles in technical support to financial adviser and operations manager.

Start FP director Steve Taylor says: “I’m delighted to welcome Charlotte to the team as a financial adviser. I think it is important to be able to offer advice in the corporate market as many advisers are not prepared to do this. So many now focus on individual advice, leaving employers with little expertise to help provide benefits for their employees”.

“As a female adviser, she also brings an important new dimension to the business. Some people, depending on their circumstances, feel more comfortable talking to a woman. Yet, according to FTAdviser in July 2022, only 16% of financial advisers were female according to Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) records.”

Charlotte adds: “Joining Start FP was a natural move for me. We share the same values. I really admire the friendly, personal, respectful service that Start offers. The client is at the forefront of everything. There are no sales targets – we are client centred.

“We’re a small but experienced team, with excellent support staff alongside the advisers. Because I’ve previously worked in different roles, I really appreciate that providing a great service to clients is not just down to one person. It’s teamwork.

“I’m looking forward to bringing a different perspective to the services we offer. Financial planning was previously a very male dominated environment and, traditionally, men have tended to handle business and family finances.

“However, women increasingly run their own businesses and personal finances and it’s important to reflect that in our industry. I have male and female clients – but it’s nice to be able to offer a choice of advisers.

“I’m also looking forward to developing the services we offer to corporate clients, including workplace pension schemes and employee benefits. These can really help companies to retain staff, with benefits for the employer, too.”

Start Financial Planning, based at Dunston Innovation Centre, was founded in 2014 by Steve and Rachael Taylor. It specialises in providing clear, honest, independent financial advice – and ongoing support – to individuals and businesses.

For more information, contact Charlotte Reynolds on 01246 268527 Charlotte@startfp.co.uk

www.startfp.co.uk

Chill Tubs teams up with Leeds Rhinos

Chill Tubs and Leeds Rhinos

Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness‘ premium ice bath brand ‘Chill Tubs’ has officially joined forces with Leeds Rhinos Rugby League team to help support recovery and performance.

With recovery being a vital part of the team’s performance, a partnership with Chill Tubs was formed for the start of the 2024 Betfred Super League season.

The partnership has so far seen two Chill Tubs being installed at the Leeds Rhinos Bartercard Training Complex, which will be used by all players to help support their recovery.

Chill Tubs, launched by Superior Wellness in 2023, has proved to be hugely popular attracting elite athletes, sports people and teams globally, as well as individuals looking to focus on their health and well-being.

Made from stainless steel, featuring a black aluminium surround and a composite top, the ‘Original’ Chill Tub is designed to deliver unmatched performance, durability, and style. With its impressive features and luxurious aesthetics, it redefines the concept of post-workout rejuvenation.

The Chill Tub temperature can be set as low as 3 degrees and no ice is required.
Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “We are delighted to team up with Leeds Rhinos and help support their recovery. The benefits of using a Chill Tub includes reducing muscle soreness, improving recovery time, decreasing inflammation and improving circulation – all of which will help the team.”

Leeds Rhinos Business Development Manager Ben Turnbull commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Chill Tubs into our family of partners here at Leeds Rhinos. We recognise the importance of recovery to support player wellness and performance, and the addition of Chill Tubs will help massively in this area. The players already love them, and we’re excited to see how this partnership grows.”

Chill Tubs will also be proudly donating 5% to the Leeds Hospitals Charity Appeal for the Rob Burrow Centre for MND from every Chill Tubs sale directly from the Leeds Rhinos.

Please look out for further updates on the Chill Tubs Facebook and Instagram, and the Rhinos social media platforms on how the Chill Tubs are being used by Leeds Rhinos.

Green light for new road safety offering from Rodgers Leask

 

Chesterfield Property and Construction Group member, Rodgers Leask has unveiled a new Road Safety Audit (RSA) service as part of its transport planning capabilities, led by senior transport planner and road safety auditor Mike Dutton.

These audits review the road safety implications of engineering interventions for all road users and make recommendations to reduce the risk of accidents occurring, which helps inform designs for highway schemes. Road safety is fundamental to any alterations to the highway network associated with new development, meaning all clients will require and benefit from road safety related services.

With more than ten years of experience in highway design, Mike and his team can provide expert advice on schemes at all stages of the development process – covering DMRB GG119 stages 1-4. This means support can be provided prior to submitting planning or technical approval, helping schemes progress smoothly, through to post-construction.

On leading our new RSA team, Mike said: “It’s exciting to lead such an important new offering at Rodgers Leask. Road safety is integral to our work as designers and engineers, so incorporating it as a service at Rodgers Leask is a natural step forward. Our broad offering from the start is something that I’m proud to deliver and I look forward to seeing grow, along with our team.

“Road safety has always been an ever-evolving area of work which has to adapt to constant legal, societal and technological changes. That of course comes with challenges, but it’s those changes and challenges make the road safety sector so interesting. Anyone who is involved in development projects comprising the movement of people, construction of new highway infrastructure, or amendments to the existing highway network, can benefit from our new offering.”

To find out more about our new RSA and road safety engineering service you can email Mike at mike.dutton@rodgersleask.co.uk.

Banner Jones once again shortlisted in three categories at Sheffield & District Law Society Awards

banner jones award win

Chesterfield-based regional law firm Banner Jones has once again been shortlisted for three awards at the upcoming Sheffield & District Law Society Awards, including Residential Property Team of the Year, and Employment Team of the Year.

Family Law Solicitor Lauren Mahon has also been nominated in the Rising Star category in recognition of her passion and commitment to providing advice to clients on all aspects of family law including divorce, finances and children arrangement orders.

The short listings mark another year of success for Banner Jones, which has won the Employment Team award for two consecutive years.

It’s conveyancing department, which is widely recognised for its customer service led approach and innovative use of technology, has also been shortlisted for the Residential Property of the Year Award in 2022 and 2023.

The winners of the awards will be announced at the annual awards ceremony which will take place on the 23rd of February at the historic Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield.

Commenting on the news, Banner Jones’ Chief Executive Simon Wright, who won Partner of the Year at the awards last year, said: “We are incredibly proud and privileged to have once again received such recognition from the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

“This is the third year in a row that both our conveyancing and employment law teams have been shortlisted for awards, and that really is testament to the hard work and dedication of every member of our team.

“Lauren also deserves particular recognition for her nomination in the Rising Star category. She has led on several complex cases since qualifying just a few years ago and has already supported over a hundred family law clients at what is often a difficult time in their lives.

“The event itself remains a firm favourite in our events calendar, and we are looking forward to once again being able to celebrate the achievements of the local legal community with our colleagues from across the industry.”

This is the third year in a row that the Banner Jones employment team – which prides itself on being able to offer high quality advice in a user-friendly, cost-effective manner to individuals, businesses and charities – has been shortlisted for the Employment Team of the Year Award, which it won in 2022 and 2023.

The firm’s conveyancing department, which boasts teams in Chesterfield, Mansfield, Dronfield and Sheffield and is one of the largest and most experienced in the region, is also in the running for the Residential Property Team of the Year Award for the second year in a row.

Start Financial Planning, Chesterfield FC, Rodgers Leask, Banner Jones Solicitors and Superior Wellness support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Regional business leader appointed to key devolution role

A top regional lawyer has been appointed to the shadow board steering the creation of the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), ahead of the very first election for East Midlands Mayor in May.

David Williams, Chairman of Geldards, one of the UK’s leading law firms, will take on the role of interim business representative on the EMCCA shadow board, joining local politicians from the four key councils involved in the East Midlands devolution deal.

David said: “I’ve lived and worked in the East Midlands for over thirty years and I’m committed to doing what I can to raise the profile and economic prosperity of the region, developing the many successful partnerships between the private, public and third sectors. I’m looking forward to working with political leaders and other partners to maximise the opportunities that devolution will bring to the region.”

Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “David will be a tremendous asset to the shadow board and his appointment is another important step forward as we press ahead towards the creation of the new East Midlands Combined County Authority. David brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role and we look forward to working with him during this key period for East Midlands devolution.”

Alongside his role as Chairman of Geldards, a top 100 law company with more than 300 employees, David holds a number of non-executive and trustee positions, including Chairman of EMB Group Limited, Deputy Chair of D2N2 LEP, Board member at Nottingham Trent University and a non-executive Director of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce.

EMCCA is set to bring in around £4 billion of funding for the region, alongside devolved powers for transport, skills and adult education, housing, the environment and economic development.

Businesses in Chesterfield are being invited to find out more about the East Midlands Combined County Authority at the upcoming Celebrate Chesterfield Event.

Taking place on 20th March 2024, the conference will host the candidates for the upcoming EMCCA mayoral election. Book your place here.

DavidWilliams

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Local organisations encouraged to join the Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge

Businesses in Chesterfield are being encouraged to get involved in a wellbeing challenge to raise funds for local charities, ahead of the upcoming Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

Pronto Paints, the Chesterfield-based family run manufacturer of high technology surface coatings, is returning as the title partner for this year’s Wellbeing Challenge at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K taking place on Sunday 24 March.

Organisations across the region have signed up to take part in the challenge which is a great way for local businesses, schools or groups to join together, get active and raise money for local charities. To register, each team must have a minimum of 6 participants, that are taking part in any of the three events over the weekend: the Nuzest Chesterfield 5K Challenge, Veezu Fun Run or Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

Businesses and organisations which have signed up for the Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, include Redbrik Estate Agents, Pronto Paints, Chesterfield Borough Council, Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood, Chapter II, Veezu, North Derbyshire Running Club, Mortgage 1st, Banner Jones and St Peter & St Paul School.

David Beckford, managing director of Pronto Paints, said: “It’s fantastic to sponsor the Wellbeing Challenge once again at this year’s Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

“We have sponsored the challenge for many years, and it is an event we look forward to being involved in each year.

“The challenge enables local businesses and organisations to team up and put their health and wellbeing at the forefront of their mind, as well as allowing for a bit of friendly competition which is always great fun to see.”

John Timms, event director, said: “We’re so pleased that Pronto Paints have returned as sponsors of the Wellbeing Challenge for 2024.

“They have been long-standing supporters of the event, and their involvement is always integral to its success. The challenge always adds a fun but importantly recognises the good work that organisation and groups are doing to recognise the importance of encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for all”

The Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge takes place in tandem with the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K and Veezu Fun Run on Sunday 24th March and the Nuzest Chesterfield 5K on Saturday 23rd March. To register your interest and receive your discount code, please email: info@chesterfieldI0K.com

Pronto Paints, Nuzest and Redbrik support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Pronto Paints- Ches10K

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Spireites to honour community heroes in annual awards ceremony

Local community heroes across Chesterfield will be celebrated once again in 2024 by Chesterfield Football Club.

The Spireites are hosting the annual Community Awards this April, and the club is encouraging people to come forward with nominations to celebrate the unsung heroes in our town.

The club is on the lookout for individuals who have made exceptional contributions, demonstrated selflessness, and had a profound impact on the lives of those around them.

Whether it’s through community service, acts of kindness, sportsmanship, or innovative endeavours, Chesterfield FC wants to hear about the remarkable stories that make Chesterfield a better place.

Nominations are now open, and local people are now encouraged to share stories of those outstanding individuals who go above and beyond to make a positive difference.

People have until the deadline of midnight on Monday, 4th March 2024 to submit nominations.

Once nominees have been confirmed, they will be invited to a lavish ceremony on 27th April 2024 at the SMH Group Stadium, highlighting the incredible spirit of our community.

Find out more about the winners last year’s Chesterfield FC Community Awards

Nominations are open in the following categories:

  • Young Person of Courage – Sponsored by Prince Family Law
  • Adult Bravery – Sponsored by Fabworx
  • Carer of the Year – Sponsored by Graysons Solicitors
  • Sporting Achievement – Sponsored by Leengate Valves
  • Volunteer of the Year – Sponsored by The Barrel Inn Blues Travel
  • Local Hero – Sponsored by Ecotech Engineers
  • Green Champion of the Year – Sponsored by Penny Hydraulics
  • Act of Kindness – Sponsored by Elite Contract Clean
  • Above and Beyond – Sponsored by Ideal Flooring
  • Community Hero Award – Sponsored by Banner Jones Solicitors
  • Fundraiser of the Year – Sponsored by Kranlee Logistics
  • Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Auto Windscreens

Nominate your community heroes at: https://chesterfield-fc.co.uk/2024-community-awards

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

Chesterfield FC Community-Awards

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Local businesses grow into new spaces at Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Two Chesterfield-based companies have expanded into larger offices at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre – after growing their businesses over the last year.

We Are Spaces, a commercial interior design and property solution company, and Integrated Interest, a sales and marketing technology company, have expanded into larger office spaces in the centre.

Owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, the flagship office development opened in July 2022 and with the expansion of these businesses is now 85% let.

Amy Revell, co-founder and director of We Are Spaces, said: “The Enterprise Centre is a wonderful space for us to call our home. “The Grade A space and service we receive from the team here really Is great value for money. We are incredibly settled and have a great relationship with the other businesses and staff, so we didn’t want to lose this, when needing to increase the size of our office to meet the new needs of our team”.

amy revell wearespaces

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

“The Enterprise Centre has made the process so easy for us to move into a bigger suite without incurring big moving costs and disruption. We always knew that when we first based ourselves here, it provided us with lots of flexibility to grow efficiently and we are doing just that.

“It’s a pleasure to have our offices within the enterprise centre and we are investing a huge amount to create an amazing fit out for our clients and staff to enjoy for many more years to come.”

Steven Brough, director of Integrated Interest, said: “When we first started looking for office space the Enterprise Centre was at the top of the list straight away, with it being in such a prominent location. It is perfectly placed for access by car, bus or train, and with access to Chesterfield town centre and Queen’s Park, there is everything you need on the doorstep. With it being such a new building, everything is modern and creates the feel I wanted for a technology company.”

The Enterprise Chesterfield model aims to provide space for new and small businesses, where they can access a range of support that will help them to grow.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to see local businesses growing, employing more of our residents, and expanding their presence in the Enterprise Centre.

“Our investment in the development formed a key part of our economic recovery plan following the pandemic – the growth of these businesses and the high occupancy rate of the centre shows how the building has helped our borough’s economy to bounce back and has created new employment opportunities for our residents.

“As well as growing the local economy, our enterprise centres also provide a small income for the council. This income helps ensure we can support businesses to grow whilst still providing the essential services our residents rely on.

“We knew our Enterprise Chesterfield model would be successful because we’ve seen businesses based at our other centres grow significantly and expand their presence in our borough, but it is great to see this working as planned in our newest centre less than two years since opening.”

Female leader of Chesterfield Borough Council in red jacket on Town Hall balcony

Cllr Tricia Gilby

Chesterfield Borough Council also owns Dunston Innovation Centre and Tapton Innovation Centre, both of which are also over 85% let.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is Chesterfield’s flagship centre and includes 32 office suites in a range of sizes, which all include individual security and high-tech features which allow businesses to adapt to modern ways of working.

Sustainability sits at the heart of the building, with built in energy efficient systems that help businesses keep costs down whilst also reducing their carbon footprint.

The centre also includes a breakout room where businesses can network and build relationships so that they can work together more efficiently.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre was part funded through a grant from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Investment Fund, with additional funding provided by Chesterfield Borough Council.

To find out more about your business being based in the Enterprise Centre contact the Enterprise Chesterfield team by calling 01246 903 900 or emailing enterprise@chesterfield.gov.uk

Find Your Perfect Office in Chesterfield.

We Are Spaces supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

2 male and 2 female business people speaking at table at Chesterfield Enterprise Centre

Northern Gateway Chesterfield Enterprise Centre

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First and second phases of Horizon 29 development now complete

Phase 1A and 1B of industrial and distribution hub, Horizon 29, in Bolsover, North Derbyshire are now finished.

Horizon 29 is a new landmark distribution development located one mile from Junction 29A of the M1, and once fully complete, it will span 1,150,256 sq. ft and have a total of eight warehouses, delivered over three phases by McLaren Construction (Midlands and North).

Phase 1A comprises two single-storey distribution warehouses (units 1 and 2) and sustainable features including solar PVs, air source heat pumps, enhanced cladding, responsibly sourced sustainable materials, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points. The units have been constructed to a BREEAM Rating of ‘Excellent,’ with an EPC ‘A’ Rating.

Phase 1B, involved the construction of units 4 and 5, alongside all subsequent mechanical and electrical works, office fit-outs and external works to ongoing conference laboratory car parks.

The contractor also delivered earthworks, CMC and VSC piling, concrete foundations, steel framing, lift shaft and stair installations, nets for roofing works and office elevation cladding.

Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are delighted that works for both Phase 1A and 1B are finally complete.

Horizon 29 Bolsover

“Once all phases are finished, Horizon 29 will be a premier distribution centre for the region, and an ideal hub for quality tenants looking for direct and easy access to the M1 north and south.

“We were pleased to be working alongside BentallGreenOak and Equation Properties for the second phase of this landmark scheme.”

Dick Smallman, Equation Properties, said: “Despite a challenging site and weather, we are very impressed with the superb quality of the units and works that McLaren Construction has delivered to date.

“The speed with which they’ve carried out particular elements of the work, the seamless design which blends into the countryside and the innovative techniques used have been fantastic.”

McLaren Construction serves both the public and private sectors in core areas including commercial offices, residential, education, retail, distribution and logistics, hotels, and leisure.

Find out more about why Chesterfeld and North Derbyshire is the perfect location to base your growing business. 

Horizon 29 Bolsover

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Chesterfield artist opens new Hasland studio featuring spectacular local designs

An artist and illustrator, known for his vibrant designs showcasing many of Chesterfield’s prominent landmarks has opened a new studio.

Matt Cockayne’s new store is now open, based at The Green in Hasland. The new studio provides a workspace for Matt, alongside an art and gift shop stocking prints, mugs, framed art, cards, cushions and more.

All of Matt’s art is hand drawn, and going forward will all be created in Hasland either at his home studio or at his premises at The Green.

The artist and designer explained how pleased he was to get the shop up and running: “The last six weeks have been a bit of a slog for me, doing a bit of a renovation work on the building, but I’ve cracked on with it and I’m really pleased.”

Matt explained the reasons behind his decision to invest in a new studio in Hasland: “I’ve lived in Chesterfield for nearly thirteen years now, and moved to Hasland during lockdown.

Matt Cockayne art prints of spire and market hall

I just love it here. I live two minutes away from work so I don’t have to drive, I can walk to work for my commute. Where it’s situated on the crossroads in Hasland is ideal in terms of footfall. Another reason why I wanted the property is that I just like the Victorian look and layout of it. I’ve got my studio in the back of my shop, so I can produce work and sell it from the same place. I want to add something alternative and exciting to the town and Hasland.

“Geographically Chesterfield is a great place to live as it’s in the centre of the county and on the doorstep to the Peak District which I love, I’m an outdoor person and take a lot of inspiration from my surroundings.

Matt also explained why he’s excited to be growing his business and reputation as an artist: “The thing I love about being an artist is having my own freedom to create art, being an independent artist is important as I can draw what I want to draw, rather than being told what I should draw.

“Being local is always nice, as when people say they have my art in their homes it’s humbling to know my creativity has bought some pleasure into someone else’s life.

“I’m big on supporting local business. I use all the shops in Hasland, so hopefully people will follow my ethos and visit me in my shop too. Having a vibrant High Street such as Hasland’s, is just great for the community.”

Find out more about Matt’s latest projects and designs on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattCockayneArt/

Matt Cockayne art spire designs cushions

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Pioneering habitat bank to support biodiversity opens in Chesterfield

A wildlife project near Chesterfield has become the first in Derbyshire to be secured by new legislation to support biodiversity.

Wild Whittington has just become the first habitat bank in the county with a Section 106 agreement with the local planning authority, Chesterfield Borough Council.

Located 5km north of Chesterfield town centre, the Wild Whittington habitat bank allows developers and planning authorities to source off-site Biodiversity Net Gain units to support development schemes and local nature. The site is owned by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and managed by Wild Solutions, the trust’s in-house ecological consultancy and ecosystem services provider. Wild Solutions will be bringing forward further sites across the county in the weeks ahead.

Following a delay to the original deadline in November 2023, Biodiversity Net Gain has now become mandatory. In order to gain planning permission, developers will be required by law to deliver a minimum of 10% net gain in biodiversity with newly created or enhanced habitats secured for at least 30 years, on all new developments.

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has been protecting and restoring local nature, and helping people access nature-rich spaces on their doorstep, for over 60 years. The organisation believes developers and Local Authorities can use BNG to benefit nature and local communities, but the right approach is essential to achieving this.

Through a process called habitat banking, the Trust is taking a nature led approach to BNG by creating high quality and resilient habitats, delivered in the best place for nature, before the loss occurs.

These new spaces for nature are accessible for the public to enjoy and will provide additional ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, flood risk management and water quality improvements. Wild Solutions can call on 100 expert staff in Derbyshire, making us the most effective and experienced partner for BNG in the county.

The sites will be managed in perpetuity for nature, under the stewardship of Derbyshire’s leading conservation charity and all the profits generated through the Wild Solutions consultancy will be reinvested to secure the best outcomes for nature and have a greater impact for wildlife.

Matt Buckler is Director of Natural Solutions at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and oversees the Trust’s commercial consultancy, Wild Solutions. He says:

“This legislation has brought much needed focus to nature-based solutions and how they can help meet environmental and climate emergencies. BNG becoming mandatory is great news for nature and offers a significant opportunity for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust to leverage its expertise to support this new approach, while remaining true to its charitable status and strategic goals.

“Like all nature based solutions, it has to be done right to have the true impact and that is where the passion, experience, skills and dedication of the Trust are essential. We understand the challenges BNG will raise for developers, landowners, LPAs and other stakeholders, and we are well placed to support them with the bespoke, well-rounded solutions they need now, whilst making more space for nature and helping its recovery.”

For more information visit https://www.wildsolutionsdwt.co.uk/ecosystem-service-provision

To discuss your current or future biodiversity objectives, contact Phil Fermor (pfermor@derbyshirewt.co.uk) on 07894 747144

Wild Whittington

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Craft and makers market coming to Chesterfield

A new pop-up market will bring a selection of crafters and makers to Chesterfield each month this year.

Little Hummingbird Events are partnering with Chesterfield Borough Council to bring their unique offering to Chesterfield on one Saturday each month from 10am to 4pm starting on 9 March.

The Independent Makers and Crafters Market will include seasonal food offerings, handmade gifts and much more – hosting it alongside the town’s regular Saturday market will encourage more people to visit and support both market traders and local retailers.

Nicola Hudson, owner of Little Hummingbird Events, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council on this exciting new monthly project.

“As a small company ourselves our passion is helping to support small independent businesses. It is this ethos which drives us to help them reach new and regular audiences so that their own business models grow.

“What most people don’t realise is, the bulk of business in the UK is in fact small business. If ever there was a time to support small independents, it is now.”

Little Hummingbird Events have previously worked in Chesterfield, hosting a Maker’s Market in summer 2023.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re excited to welcome Little Hummingbird Events and their fantastic traders back to the town centre.

“The aim is to enhance the market offering bringing new people into the town centre and encouraging them to support existing businesses as well as the new traders. I hope a lot of people will come along and support the new traders coming to Chesterfield.”

Markets are planned on the main market for each month throughout 2024, for a full list of dates head over to our events page.

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield, home to a range of unique independent shops and well-known national retailers.

town centre chesterfield market hall

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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