About Chesterfield

Local organisations discuss proactive approach to anti-social behaviour

18th July 2017

A range of organisations have joined together to discuss ways to tackle issues of homelessness and anti-social behaviour in Chesterfield town centre.

The Town Centre Summit, called by Derbyshire’s PCC, Hardyal Dhindsa, met for the first time on Friday (14 July).

The meeting saw representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire County Council, Derbyshire Police, Derbyshire Probation Trust, health agencies, the voluntary and community sector, East Midlands Chamber and Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins unite to find sustainable solutions to a range of issues.

This proactive approach follows reports of anti-social behaviour around bus shelters in New Beetwell Street and key town centre sites, including the Crooked Spire church, related to alcohol or drug taking, as well as periods where the number of people rough sleeping on the streets has increased.

The group agreed to work together to address the behavioural problems but was also keen to get to the root causes of the issues and help to support people to get themselves out of the situation. The group will focus on:

Enforcement – looking at what powers can be used to control problems of anti-social behaviour often related to drug or alcohol use
Treatment and support – to focus on providing longer term solutions to enable the people concerned to receive mental health, alcohol or drug treatment as well as finding long term housing solutions
Welfare policy – focusing on asking the Government to reconsider some of the changes to welfare reforms that are contributing to the issue.

Hardyal Dhindsa, Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said:-

“I was pleased to see such a good and positive attendance and would like to thank everyone who joined us.

“Everyone who came to the meeting had the best interests of the residents, business and visitors to Chesterfield at their heart and that is a good starting place.

“A lot of good suggestions were made and we have set up smaller groups to look at the issues identified and then provide practical solutions to them.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:-

“I felt it was a very productive meeting and a good first step towards dealing with the issue but everyone around the table recognised that success will be judged by actions and not words.

“There are no simple answers to the issues because there are multiple causes and so many different agencies have a part to play in providing the answers.

“What came across was a real determination to resolve those issues for the benefit of everyone in Chesterfield.”

At the meeting the agencies involved agreed to share information better so that opportunities to link up activities are not missed.

Jacqui Willis, chief executive of NDVA, which works to support health and social care related voluntary organisations working in Derbyshire, said:-

“We are pleased that the authorities are working together with the local community and voluntary sector to tackle these issues.

“The voluntary sector has a key role to play in providing long term solutions to the problems that individuals are facing and by closer working the impact of that work can be enhanced.”

Andy Watterson, business crime manager at East Midlands Chamber said:-

“There are some great schemes happening in Chesterfield like the Northern Gateway and it is important that the issues we have seen don’t impact on the success of the economic focus of these schemes.

“Chesterfield is not alone in having problems like this but it is important that we tackle them so that they don’t discourage people coming to visit, go shopping and do business here.”

At the meeting it was agreed that the wider issue of welfare reforms that are contributing to the causes of many of the issues that have been seen in Chesterfield would be raised in Parliament by MP Toby Perkins.

He said:-

“To find effective solutions we need to look at the root causes and the experience in Chesterfield has been that these issues have been exacerbated by welfare cuts implemented by the Government.

“Ministers cannot simply expect councils to ‘clear’ the streets of homelessness without understanding that making poor people poorer inevitably leads to the unfortunate scenes we’re all working to address.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure

Tapton Lock retains prestigious Green Flag award

18th July 2017

Tapton Lock has retained the prestigious Green Flag award given to the country’s finest green spaces by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

It joins Shipley Country Park and Elvaston Castle who were also awarded the the coveted honour.

Councillor Simon Spencer, Cabinet Member for Highways Transport and Infrastructure at Derbyshire County Council, said:-

“We have some fantastic parks and countryside sites − but don’t just take our word for it. These awards show we provide some of the best in the country.

“Whether it’s a quiet stroll you’re after, cycling with friends or a picnic with the kids there really is something for everyone.

“Staff are constantly working to make Shipley, Elvaston and Tapton Lock even more appealing for visitors so why not make a date to visit this weekend and take a look for yourself.”

The awards, announced during national Love Parks Week, are given to parks which meet eight strict criteria including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure

HS2 train link for Chesterfield a ‘game changer’

17th July 2017

A decision to bring the HS2 rail line through Chesterfield offers a once in a generation opportunity to create jobs and economic growth.

That was the message from Chesterfield Borough Council leader Councillor Tricia Gilby as she welcomed news that HS2 has decided to go ahead with plans for the main HS2 high speed rail link to follow a route through north Derbyshire and South Yorkshire that roughly follows the M1 and M18, with a spur coming off that would serve Chesterfield and Sheffield city centre.

It was also confirmed that Staveley will be home to a HS2 maintenance depot, creating jobs and helping to develop the former industrial sites in the area as part of a wider regeneration plan.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:-

“This is a real game changer for Chesterfield because of the faster connections it will bring to London, Leeds, Manchester and other major cities and the extra capacity on those trains.

“Having high speed trains will benefit not only Chesterfield’s economy but also the wider area as Chesterfield is the link in to other parts of north Derbyshire and the Peak District National Park. It makes Chesterfield a destination to arrive at and that offers the opportunity to develop infrastructure around the station to bring wider economic benefits over time.”

The council is currently working with partners across the East Midlands and Sheffield City Region to maximise the potential opportunities to develop infrastructure that will enable the town to benefit from the rail link and to give local people the skills and training needed to get jobs created by HS2.

An East Midlands HS2 Growth Strategy which sets out plans to achieve this is currently being developed and will be launched later this summer.

Councillor Gilby added: “We will be telling the Government that by investing in infrastructure we can maximise the economic benefits of the HS2 link sooner, bringing more jobs to Chesterfield and the surrounding areas.

“At Staveley we need to ensure that the maintenance depot plans link in with the pre-existing plans to redevelop the former industrial sites in that area. As that land has contamination on it we need to start work sooner rather than later to ensure that everything is ready to benefit from the HS2 rail link when it arrives.

“We do recognise that in addition to the positives of the HS2 link there will be disruption as well. We will be working with HS2 and the Government to ensure all possible mitigation measures are in place to minimise this as much as possible.”

The HS2 announcement has also been welcomed by business leaders.

Peter Swallow, chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Proposals for an HS2 stop in Chesterfield and the Staveley maintenance depot have already sparked a surge of interest in the town from all types of inward investor, including commercial developers and house-builders, thus reinforcing Chesterfield’s status on the national investment map.

“Chesterfield’s location and connectivity gives the town a unique appeal and this has already been recognised by many of those looking to invest. The HS2 announcements made to date have helped to raise the town’s profile even further, and promoted Chesterfield to a different league of investor.

“Key developments like Peak Resort and Chesterfield Waterside are already well underway and HS2 will help make Chesterfield a destination in its own right- an HS2 stop in the town will be another massive step forward.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development

Local charities set to benefit from classic car and bike show

17th July 2017

Local charities are once again set to benefit when hundreds of classic cars and bikes turn up at the picturesque Ashover Show Ground this Sunday for an all-day rally, which is expected to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

The Ashover Classic Car & Bike Show will be attended by enthusiasts from all over the region and is expected to include classic cars, bikes and scooters from all eras.

Organised jointly for the seventh year running by the Rotary Clubs of Chesterfield, Chesterfield Scarsdale, Clay Cross and Matlock this annual charity event has now raised a total of over £70,000 for local charities.

There will be attractions for all the family, with a variety of refreshment stands and licensed bars. There is also musical entertainment and displays in the main event arena, kids rides, and a large side show with Autojumble and an Arts and Craft Fair.

This year, specialists from event partner H&H Classics, Europe’s largest specialist classic vehicle auction house will be in attendance at the show. The H&H team, in association with the UK’s specialist insurance and valuation expert for classic cars, Hagerty International, will be able to discuss just about everything to do with the cars from condition, history and a general idea of what it might be worth. If required they can also put owners in touch with Hagerty International for a formal valuation.

Stuart Bradley from the organising committee, said:-

“This annual event has proved very popular with classic car and bike enthusiasts because of its ideal location in the Derbyshire countryside in the lovely village of Ashover

The main sponsor of this charity event is Stoneacre, one of the most successful and fastest growing motor groups in the UK. Other sponsors include:- JCT600 (Mecedes Benz Chesterfield), The Van Yard, PCS Motor Factors, BRM Solicitors, Sally Botham Estates, Saxton Mee, Bothams Mitchell Slaney and Stuart Bradley Jewellers.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Exciting opportunity for budding chefs to work across the Chatsworth Estate

17th July 2017

The Duke and Duchess of Devonshire’s estate, which includes the famous local attraction of Chatsworth, is offering seven fantastic apprenticeships, to young people with a passion for food and a desire to train as a chef.

The successful apprentices will get the opportunity to work across the Devonshire Group’s three acclaimed restaurants on the Chatsworth Estate during the 13 month apprenticeship, where they will carry out work based learning with tutors from Learning Unlimited, part of the Chesterfield College Group. At the end of the apprenticeship programme successful learners will also be guaranteed positions at one of the restaurants and hotels within the group across Derbyshire and Yorkshire.

Clare Clifton, Group Training & Development Manager for the Devonshire Group at Chatsworth, said:

“We have an excellent track record of supporting apprentices and we are able to provide a range of career opportunities within the Group. We encourage our chefs to continue their professional development with us and to undertake ongoing study. In addition to the formal qualification and training, the apprenticeship will include the opportunity to gain experience across a range of restaurants – from fine dining to good pub food, working with our amazing chefs.”

Jordan Garratt, Chef de Partie with the Devonshire Group who trained at Chesterfield College and was a Young Chef of the Year finalist in 2014 told us:-

“The learning possibilities are endless here. The variety of things you get to work on is fantastic and there is a great team atmosphere. Working here is one of the best places to be if you want career progression.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business

Driving day raises more than £50,000 for local charities

17th July 2017

Around 100 people with their super cars took part in a charity Driving Day, the first event of its kind in Derbyshire, organised by The Star Trust.

The event, which set out to raise money for #ChallengeDerbyshire, a fundraising initiative which supports three local north Derbyshire based charities including Ashgate Hospicecare (70%), Blythe House Hospice (20%) and Helen’s Trust (10%), started at Thornbridge Hall near Bakewell with a scenic drive through the Peak District. Drivers paid to enter and additional funds were raised through a charity auction and raffle, bringing the total raised on the day to £53,000.

Steve Hampson, Chairman of The Star Trust, said:-

“We are proud to be involved with Challenge Derbyshire and supporting local charities as we do. The events we hold are huge fun, populated by some truly amazing and generous people. This great result has now meant that The Star Trust has donated £435,000 to 39 East Midlands based charities.”

Paul Beedham from Derbyshire, said:-

“My good friend Pat Musgrave is on the board of The Star Trust and his business P&D is a #ChallengeDerbyshire business club member and he knew I had had personal experience of Ashgate Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust. When he told me about the day I was delighted to sign up. Six years ago my wife, Bridget, was diagnosed with a primary brain tumour and it was terminal. She came home after treatment and Ashgate put in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Counselling for her, myself and our children who were just 7 and 9 years old. Helen’s Trust put in a stair lift so that she could come downstairs and be with the family. She lasted 10 months and thanks to Ashgate Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust we were able to make the most of the time we had.

“So when Pat asked me to take part I jumped at it and it has been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to do so. Both Bridget and I were keen on our cars and I brought my car after she died as I thought life is too short. We’ve had a great day and I can’t thank them enough.”

The money raised from the day will pay for specialist equipment at the three charities.

David Hopkins, #ChallengeDerbyshire founder and CEO of Markovitz, said:-

“We are so indebted to The Star Trust for choosing us as their partner for the event. The fact that we were able to raise such a fantastic amount in one day is a huge boost as we strive to hit our ambitious target of one million pounds. As always, thanks must go to the #ChallengeDerbyshire Business Club members who once again came out in force to ensure that every pound donated goes directly to our three amazing charities. Particular thanks must go to Emma and Jim Harrison for giving up their beautiful home for the day, as well as feeding a hundred guests so lavishly.”

Posted in About Chesterfield

Golf Development grant awarded to Chesterfield golf clubs

17th July 2017

A group of Derbyshire golf clubs and coaches have joined forces to help spearhead the drive to encourage more people into the sport in the region.

The formation of the North East Derbyshire Golf Development Group involves 8 clubs in the area and has been set up to deliver a range of activities to make it easier than ever to learn how to play golf.

Now the group has received additional support after their small grants application to Sport England of £10, 000 for developing golf in the North East region of Derbyshire was successful. The grant will be used to raise the profile of golf out in the local community with an aim to encourage people to take up the sport and hopefully become golf club members.

Several community golf coaches will be engaged to take the sport out into local parks, schools, organisations and businesses, with the help of a new inflatable and portable net, which means someone can try swinging a golf club and hitting a ball away from the traditional greens and fairways of a course.

Currently Fame Tate (Tapton Park Golf Course) and Craig Pollard (South Chesterfield Golf Course) have signed up to deliver golf in the community through the project.

Fame, former Ladies European Tour player, commented:-

“I am particularly excited to be working on this project as my passion as a coach is getting more people playing the game. Hopefully the sessions we are planning to organise will encourage a wide variety of people to give golf a go.”

The money will allow the NE Derbyshire Regional Golf Development Group – made up of Bakewell, Barlborough Links, Chesterfield, Matlock, Shirland Stanedge, South Chesterfield and Tapton Park golf clubs – to raise their profile out in their local communities even further.

Nigel Furniss, Development Officer for the Derbyshire Golf, said:-

“It is really encouraging to see clubs coming together and working in partnership to try and develop the game of golf.

“All clubs are facing the challenge of recruiting and retaining members and it is easy to take an individual approach to the problem.

“But this group has recognised the potential of strength in numbers and of pooling ideas and resources to the benefit of the sport and also their own clubs.

“The additional funding will help the group progress further and we are indebted to Sport England for their support.

“Our target now is to introduce 800 people to golf and hopefully excite them to want to continue in the game and hopefully join a club, but more importantly become a lifelong participant in a sport which brings so many health and social benefits.”

Posted in About Chesterfield

Last Display at Chatsworth Country Fair for White Helmets!

13th July 2017

Death-defying and jaw-dropping feats of skill and courage performed on horses at full gallop by legendary Cossack Warriors will be seen for the first time at this year’s Chatsworth Country Fair.

The three-day celebration of the countryside set in the beautiful Chatsworth parkland is offering an array of family entertainment, from the whirlwind that is Dzhigitovka! – The Way of the Cossack Warrior, to what is set to be one of the very last displays by the army’s world famous motorcycle display team The White Helmets.

Today, the equestrian art of dzhigitovka, which sees the rider leaping from his horse at full gallop or sliding under its belly, is practised as a sport by the distant descendants of the Cossack Warriors. But, three centuries, ago it was a military technique that allowed the riders to dodge bullets and arrows and attack the enemy where least expected. The Cossacks will be a highlight of the Grand Ring programme, which runs from 10.45am to approximately 6.30pm each day.

Founded in 1927, The British Army’s White Helmets, made up of volunteers from the Royal Signals, owe their heritage to the daring dispatch riders of the First World War.

Now, after 90 years, the display team is being disbanded to make way for a more modern presentation of the Royal Signals in a digital age. With Chatsworth set to be one of the very last chances to see these highly skilled riders perform their crowd-pleasing routine of tricks, it should be an occasion to remember.

Sarah Green, Event Organiser, said:-

“We’re delighted to have secured one of the best line-ups I can remember and I can’t wait to see the displays from the new acts as well as old friends. As our regular visitors will know, away from the thrills and spills of the Grand Ring, there is a wealth of things to see, do and try – and eat! We look forward to welcoming everyone for what promises to be a memorable three days.”

The iconic Second World War planes of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flypast will return to the skies of Derbyshire while Jump4Heroes, the British Legion’s Extreme Human Flight Team, will be dropping into the arena trailing smoke and flying flags.

Visitors will also get to see the majestic sight of one of the country’s largest hot air balloon lifts setting off each day.

Animals are naturally take a starring role this year, whether it’s the adorable ponies taking part in the high-speed Mounted Games, the terrier race and hounds parade, CJ with her birds of prey or the popular Dog and Duck Show.

There is plenty on offer for children too, whether it’s joining the Band of The Royal Logistics Corps for the traditional Children’s March Past; taking part in ‘Scufts’, the family fun dog show or all manner of active fun from zorbing and climbing to bouncing and balancing. Some fantastic activities on offer are listed below:

• Pony Rides

• Wow Water – Zorb balls

• Highline Adventure – Climbing Wall and Spider Mountain

There’s numerous activities for visitors of all ages to try, from laser and clay pigeon shooting and archery to fly fishing tuition. See listed below some of our top picks:

• Archery

• Family Fun Dog Show

• Gundog Scurry

Always a crowd favourite is the chance to experience first-hand some of the nation’s favourite chefs whipping up delicious culinary delights. This year, there is a mouthwatering line-up of talent led by Paul Hollywood on Friday, Mary Berry CBE on Saturday and John Torode and Lisa Faulkner on Sunday along with some fantastic local chefs showcasing their talents all set in the foodie haven of the Fine Food Village.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield businesses and jobseekers set to benefit from region-wide jobs board

13th July 2017

The creation of a new dedicated jobs board is set to benefit Chesterfield businesses, who will find it easier to find and retain talented and locally-based employees.

The Sheffield City Region Jobs Board, created by Sheffield-based technology and recruitment solutions firm TribePad, aims to support employers within the city region – including Chesterfield – whether they are operating in the private, public or third sectors.

Using the latest algorithmic insight, the specialist online platform ensures that regional jobs rank higher within the principal internet search engines, thereby providing benefits to both local employers and job seekers.

It aims to boost local employment and retain talented people by showcasing some of the best jobs and people based on locality.

TribePad, which lists Tesco and the BBC among its clients, is offering this facility to Chesterfield businesses completely free of charge.

Dean Sadler from TribePad said:-

“Our aim is to support the local economy by making it easier for jobseekers and businesses to connect.

“Following a successful pilot, TribePad may look to replicate this initiative elsewhere, however it is our intention that it will remain a free service for the Sheffield City Region and its employers.”

For regional businesses, and incoming inward investors, this online platform will be free to use and is being pitched as a new recruitment resource.

McLaren Automotive, who will be creating more than 200 new jobs in the recently announced Composites Technology Centre in Sheffield is one of the first big names to have signed up to the Jobs Board and expects it to play an important part in their recruitment process.

Jonathan Clement from McLaren Automotive said:-

“Sheffield City Region has a long-standing reputation for excellence in research, advanced manufacturing and engineering; consolidated by the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre and the wider Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District.

“We will be creating significant numbers of jobs over the next few years as we establish a manufacturing presence here.

“It is important to us that we tap into the specialist expertise that exists here.

“A regional jobs board is a fantastic way for us to achieve this and ensure that we raise awareness of employment opportunities with local residents.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

Gist development to create 200 jobs at Markham Vale

12th July 2017

Up to 200 new jobs are set to be created at Markham Vale as supply chain specialist Gist Limited announces it’s opening new premises at Chesterfield’s flagship regeneration site.

Work has already started on the firm’s new bespoke, high-spec chilled warehouse and storage facility at the site located just off junction 29A of the M1.

Gist manages the supply chains for perishable and chilled products for a wide range of customers in the commercial and industrial sector.

The company has 5,000 employees based at more than 40 sites throughout the UK and Europe.

Alan Devine, Managing Director, Network Businesses, said:

“We are happy to be working with Derbyshire County Council and Henry Boot on the development of this important new extension to our national food logistics network, on time and on budget.

“Our new centre will significantly increase our ability to bring great service to our customers.”

The firm’s 90,760 sq.ft warehouse and storage facility is set to be completed by September 2017.

Gist will be the third business to join Ferdinand Bilstein UK and Great Bear Distribution on Markham Vale North.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King said:

“Gist will be another fantastic addition to Markham Vale.

“The firm’s decision to invest in Derbyshire shows its confidence in the county as a great place to base and grow a business and we’re delighted to hear that they’ll be creating 200 new jobs at the site too.

“Markham’s great location and transport links to the M1 make it a perfect fit for the supply chain specialists and it’s a real boost to Derbyshire’s business community.”

Building work will be carried out by Henry Boot Developments.

Vivienne Clements, Director at Henry Boot Developments, said:

“We are delighted to announce that a deal has been agreed on Markham Vale North, following swiftly on from completion of the Ferdinand Bilstein UK unit.

“Gist is a key player in the supply chain industry, and with the excellent transport routes and access to the M1 from Markham Vale, the new facility will become a key logistics hub for the firm.

“At Markham Vale, land is available in plots up to 15.6 acres, and with the link access road connecting the North land to the M1, we have seen huge interest for space on the land. We are confident there are more exciting announcements to come in 2017 at our flagship logistics park.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development

New Saltergate car park planned

12th July 2017

Plans for a £6.54 million investment to improve the quality of town centre car parking in Chesterfield are being recommended for approval.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet is recommending to full council that it approves plans to demolish the existing Saltergate multi-storey car park and replace it with a new one.

Last year councillors approved plans to refurbish Saltergate at a cost of £3.58 million. Since then more detailed investigations have been carried out on the structure of the current car park and have found hidden problems that would have increased the cost of refurbishment to £5 million.

So councillors are now instead being recommended to approve a £6.54 million proposal to demolish the existing structure and replace it with one that will last 50 years and provide an even higher quality of car park than originally planned.

Councillor Terry Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, said: “The current Saltergate multi-story car park is showing its age and in real need of repair – the top two floors have been closed for the past two years and works have been carried out to keep it open.

“The option to demolish the existing car park and replace it with a newly-built one will require more investment initially but will offer much better value for money in the longer term.

“It will also offer better parking facilities not only to the existing car park users but also to the extra people we expect to use the car park following the development of the former Co-op building and the Northern Gateway project.”

If approved, the new Saltergate multi-storey car park will have 529 spaces – the same as the existing one before the top two floors were closed due to safety concerns.

Councillors will be told that while work is carried out to demolish Saltergate and build a new one, alternative car parking would be available at New Beetwell Street multi-storey car park and at surface car parks in the town centre. An interactive map of car parks is available on the council website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/parking.

The development is part of the Northern Gateway project which will see an enterprise centre for start-up and medium sized businesses built at Holywell Cross (Donut) car park and improvements made to the pedestrian environment in Elder Way and part of Knifesmithgate.

This will be funded by a Sheffield City Region Infrastructure Fund grant of £5.83 million, which is unaffected by the council’s decision to withdraw its application to be a full member of the Sheffield City Region devolution deal.

The Northern Gateway project also includes the £10.5 million redevelopment of the former Co-op store by Central England Co-operative and partner Jomast Developments.

They already have planning permission for a leisure scheme that will include:

Six ground floor restaurants
A hotel on the first and second floors
A health and fitness centre in the basement
The first occupiers to be announced are Premier Inn.

Councillors will decide on the revised plans for the Saltergate multi-storey car park when they meet on Wednesday 19 July.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Visiting