About Chesterfield

SMH Group grows with latest merger

Chartered Accountants & Tax Advisors, Howard Matthews Partnership, have merged into the SMH Group, allowing the established firm to offer even more financial services to its clients backed by the strength of the Yorkshire and Derbyshire-based group.

The SMH Group, which has a base in Chesterfield and sponsors Chesterfield Football Club’s stadium, boasts a comprehensive suite of additional business and personal financial services, spanning accountancy, financial guidance, commercial finance, wills & probate, and mortgage advice, serving businesses and individuals across the region.

Howard Matthews, Senior Partner at Howard Matthews Partnership comments: “Our alignment with the SMH Group, sharing similar values and client-centricity, promises an exciting future for everyone. They’re the perfect fit to ensure we can take Howard Matthews Partnership to the next level.

“SMH Group have the expertise to deliver the highest quality service to our clients, as well as introducing their full-service offering meaning they can access all their financial requirements under one roof. I am confident the merger will be of benefit to all our clients and staff alike.”

Jonathon Dickens, Partner at the SMH Group adds: “This latest merger into the SMH Group is an excellent opportunity for both firms – it provides long term security and more added value services for clients of Howard Matthews Partnership and allows us to bring the SMH Group into a new area in Harrogate, as we continue to expand into North and West Yorkshire.

“Our thanks go to Anna Catee at CMP Legal and Philip Jordan of Taylor & Emmet LLP, who advised on all the legal aspects of the deal.

“We would like to offer a warm welcome to all staff and clients of Howard Matthews Partnership into the SMH family.

SMH Group and CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

howard-matthews-SMH Merger 873

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Chesterfield’s Noonah unveils new cutting-edge AI Photo Booth

Noonah, a Chesterfield company with expertise in event technology, has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art AI Photo Booth for immersive brand experiences.

The firm says its latest innovation guarantees an exceptional event journey, with high-quality outputs, generated with unmatched resolution and artistic flair. It promises to elevate every captured moment, with rapid output generation within seconds, meaning attendees can instantly see their AI-enhanced photos in real time.

Safety and customisation take centre stage, as the booth is fully brandable and offers robust moderation tools, ensuring a secure and tailored experience. Noonah’s commitment to inclusivity is evident with ethnicity consideration, promoting diverse and representative outputs.

In addition, Noonah’s in-house tech team is continually introducing new modes, making the AI Photo Booth future-proof for any event or brand activation. Built for versatility, ease of setup, portability, and onsite technical support makes it ideal for pop-ups, conferences, and diverse event settings.

The new technology can include features such as:

  • AI Themer Mode, which seamlessly transforms your audience into avatars of your chosen theme, whether it’s a dynamic brand campaign, a blockbuster film release, or a seasonal setting.

  • AI Headshots Mode, providing versatile headshots which can serve as event media, perfect for ID badges, office lanyards, and professional platforms like LinkedIn.

  • AI TimeMachine Mode, allowing users to experience historical milestones, future landscapes, or age transformations.

  • AI Stylize Mode, transforming ordinary snapshots into pieces of art, each embodying a unique and visually striking style. Whether it’s the charm of anime, the fun of cartoons, the bold strokes of comics, or even the elegance of renowned art styles.

  • AI Destination Mode, which can allow attendees to picture themselves amid the lush greenery of a jungle, the tranquil shores of a beach, the bustling energy of New York’s Times Square, or even the majestic grandeur of the pyramids.

“This new AI Photo Booth redefines how brands connect with their audiences at events,” said Hannah Mott, Marketing Manager at Noonah. “It’s not just a booth; it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences.”

For inquiries regarding the new product, contact info@noonah.co.uk or visit noonah.ai

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

 

LS Hero Noonah AI

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“A perfect location to live, work and play” – Chesterfield property firms highlight advantages of Derbyshire’s largest town

Property firms are shining a light on why Chesterfield is an excellent location to live and work, with the launch of a compelling new promotional film.

The new Why Chesterfield, Why Now? film, featuring insights from key figures in the local property industry, showcases the numerous advantages and opportunities Derbyshire’s largest town offers residents and investors alike.

Major housing schemes and development opportunities

A digger and construction worker on a Stancliffe Homes development

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director of The Devonshire Group, kicks off the video at the Mastin Moor investment on the northeast side of Chesterfield. The ambitious project includes 650 new homes, later living facilities, a new local centre, and approximately 50 acres of parkland. Byrne says Chesterfield is a great place to invest and closes the film by praising the town as a great environment in which “to live and to work and to play.”

Andrew comments: “Chesterfield is a great place to invest. The population of Chesterfield is estimated to grow by about 9,000 between now and 2035. Those people are going to require homes. So it’s important that we start that process as early as we can.

“It is a thriving market town, it’s a good sized town, it’s got good education, and it’s got that playground of the Peak District National Park on its doorstep.”

Waterside Quarter development proves Chesterfield’s appeal

Avant homes Waterside Quarter

During the video, Jack Staples from Avant Homes shares progress from the Waterside Quarter development, launched in 2020. Avant has successfully sold all 170 new properties on the development, proving Chesterfield’s appeal. Staples highlights Chesterfield’s abundance of amenities and excellent transport links.

Speaking on-site at Waterside, Jack said: “We’ve got just over 170 new properties. We’ve just sold our final homes on the development. In terms of amenities, transport links, Chesterfield offers a lot, but without that city price tag.”

Historic market town attracts families and commuters from London

Birdseye view of Chesterfield market place with stalls and people

Emma Liversidge, Land and New Homes Manager at Redbrik, emphasises the charm of Chesterfield as a historic market town with a village atmosphere. She notes the community’s friendliness, making it an attractive family destination.

“Every corner you turn in Chesterfield, there’s a new development popping up. It is a historic market town, but I think it does have that sort of village atmosphere. Everyone’s very friendly, everyone knows each other, which attracts families to the area. There’s quite a lot of commuters that are settling in Chesterfield, because it’s got the good schools, it’s on the edge of the Peak District, but mainly it has really good transport links.

Attracting hybrid workers with superb quality of life

Blue Puffin Billy train driving past at Queen's Park

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

Tom Ward, Sales and Marketing Consultant at Redbrik, sheds light on the influx of hybrid workers relocating to Chesterfield from London for the town’s affordable housing. He commented: “With Chesterfield having a train to London we’ve had a lot more people moving from London, maybe they only need to be in the office for one day a week. So it’s easy to come up here, we’ve got housing that’s more affordable, but you can still have that connection.”

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director of LimeLiving Estate Agents, echoes Ward’s sentiments when talking about Chesterfield’s growing appeal with the rise of hybrid working and flexibility. Wajs notes that many people who previously moved away have returned, recognising Chesterfield’s proximity to major cities and its convenient Peak District National Park access.

Jamie said: “We’ve seen relocation being at the forefront really of the majority of buyers coming in. We are finding also that, since the pandemic, hybrid working has come to be a lot more popular now and flexibility, and that people have come back to Chesterfield as well that have previously moved away. I think when you look at what’s around us here, we’re not too far from any of the major cities, but then you’re only minutes drive from the Peak National Park.”

The film paints a compelling picture of Chesterfield, showcasing its growth, community spirit, and investment potential. As Chesterfield continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the balance the town offers, making it a welcoming and increasingly attractive location for families, investors, and remote workers.

For more information on living in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

To discover why Chesterfield is an excellent location to invest and grow your business, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Four Chesterfield Champions announce new senior appointments and promotions

Four Chesterfield Champions have revealed new appointments and promotions to kickstart 2024.

Find out about the latest successes from Peak Architects, Superior Wellness, Shorts and the University of Derby in our latest roundup:

Trio of promotions for Peak Architects

Peak Architects promotions

After a year of continued growth, Peak Architects has announced a series of promotions. Oliver Glaves is now an Associate, while Alasdair Struthers and Zanthe Wray have been promoted to Senior Architects.

Since joining Peak Architects in 2020, Oliver has proven himself to be an integral member of the Peak Architects team. With a specific focus on the management and technical delivery of its commercial portfolio, his proactive approach and commitment to excellence has contributed to the practice’s growing reputation.

Zanthe joined Peak Architects after working for Ollier Smurthwaite and local practice HCD; whilst Alasdair has previously worked at Peter Barber Architects in London. Zanthe and Alasdair have been instrumental in the development of the practice’s design and quality standards, which has seen the successful delivery of a series of award-winning projects.

Director Paul Holden commented: “These well-deserved promotions are not just a recognition of their work to date, but also an investment in the future of Peak Architects; we are looking forward to their continued development and contribution to the growth of the business. Well done from everyone at Peak Architects”

Shorts promotes Alicia Williams to Director

Alicia Williams Shorts

Shorts has announced the promotion of Alicia Williams to the position of Genus Director with effect from 1st January 2024.

Since joining Shorts in 2016 as an Accounts Senior, Alicia has demonstrated exceptional aptitude and dedication, earning promotions to Client Financial Controller and Finance System/App Integrator in 2017 and then Client FD and Digital Improvement Lead in 2022. Her progression to Director is testament to her exemplary skills and is a reflection of the active role she has played in the development of our Genus, Management Information offering during that time.

On confirming the promotion, Partner Malcolm Pope said: “Alicia is not only recognised as a leader within Shorts, but also the wider UK accounting community, following an appearance at a Xero Talks Event in London (and subsequent Podcast) and her involvement in the recording of numerous videos for reporting software provider Fathom.

“She has long been Shorts’ ‘go-to’ in terms of helping our clients improve efficiencies and opportunities through the introduction of software solutions, but she has also more recently been heavily involved in the development of what comes next for Shorts in all things AI / Data Analytics completion of the Data Analytics qualification from the ICAEW. Alicia’s promotion is very much deserved and she has worked hard to achieve it.”

Alicia said: “I am incredibly proud to have been promoted to Genus Director at Shorts and excited to be taking the next step in my professional journey. Shorts has fostered a culture of learning and development, and my promotion showcases the firm’s genuine commitment to supporting its employees’ career growth through structured paths. I am excited for my new role, working closely with both our existing clients and futures ones and helping to contribute to the continued success of the firm.”

Superior Wellness Appoints New Operations Director

Mat Day Superior Wellness

Superior Wellness has revealed the appointment of Mathew Day as the company’s new Operations Director. With over 15 years’ experience across a broad range of sectors, he brings a wealth of experience to the role.

With an impressive career, Mathew brings exceptional operational expertise and strategic leadership to his new position. Before joining Superior Wellness, Mathew was Head of Operations for Kingfisher Lighting for four and a half years.

Mathew started his journey in the 3PL world working for blue chip companies such as Clipper Logistics, Kuehne + Nagel and Europa Worldwide in which he has held numerous management positions.

As the Operations Director, Mat will play a pivotal role on the operational side of the business driving processes and efficiencies with the Senior Management Team to support the company’s expansion plans and long-term vision.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Mat Day to the Superior Wellness team. His extensive experience and proven track record as an operational leader make him an excellent addition to the team.

“We are confident that Mat will contribute significantly to our continued success as we continue to grow globally. Mat’s experience will continue to strengthen our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with him.”

New Operations Director Mathew Day said: “I am very excited to join the team here at Superior Wellness. The business is extremely well placed for further significant growth, building upon the strong foundations in place due to the quality of its partner relationships, product offerings, and its people.”

Based in Chesterfield, Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer with a network of global partners, distributing several brands including Platinum Spas, Chill Tubs and Hekla Saunas.

University of Derby appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Stephen Dudderidge University of Derby

The University of Derby has appointed Stephen Dudderidge to the new role of Chief Operating Officer, to drive forward the University’s strategic ambitions and future growth.

Stephen is currently Registrar & Secretary at the University of Brighton and will join the University of Derby on 8 April.

At Brighton, Stephen is a member of the Executive Board and leads a wide range of central professional services as well as the institution’s corporate and academic governance.

Stephen joined the University of Brighton in October 2016 after a lengthy career at the University of Nottingham. Having lived and worked for many years in the East Midlands, Stephen has a strong affinity with the region and a knowledge of the University of Derby’s important stakeholder community.

Commenting on his appointment, Stephen said: “I am delighted to be joining the University of Derby at such a pivotal time for the institution and the sector.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across the institution with a view to building on an already strong platform of cohesive service delivery.”

In his new role at Derby, Stephen will be responsible for working with the University’s executive team, led by Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University, in shaping and advancing the University’s position as an applied and industry-engaged university, building on its reputation for innovation and recent success of achieving Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming Stephen to the University.

“He has an excellent track record of leading services, and extensive experience of developing and implementing strategic plans and projects, so he is very well placed to support the University as we continue to deliver our ambitious strategy and strive for future success.”

The businesses featured 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.

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Plans revealed for more than 300 homes on North Derbyshire site

More than 300 homes could be built in Killamarsh, with a housebuilder set to submit plans to transform a former colliery site.

Housebuilder Harron Homes North Midlands is preparing to submit a reserved matters planning application to North East Derbyshire District Council for 322 new homes, in collaboration with Homes by Honey.

This site, next to Green Lane and Upperthorpe Road, has been purchased from Harworth Estates and two other private landowners who previously secured outline planning permission for 397 new homes.

The proposal is to transform the former Westthorpe Colliery site into a development of one to five bedroom homes over 45 acres of land, 20% of which would be designated for affordable housing. In addition, financial contributions of circa £750,000 will be made towards Sports Facilities, Education and Health Care in the local community.

The site sits within commutable range of Sheffield, Chesterfield and Rotherham with Killamarsh’s close proximity to the M1.

John Booth, Regional Managing Director for Harron Homes North Midlands, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to bring a wide range of homes suitable for a range of house-hunters in the area. We’ve taken on board previous concerns related to the number of houses being constructed and have been working closely with the council to generate a proposal to benefit everyone.”

Living in Chesterfield

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield has so much to offer those looking for a new home.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling market town or a picturesque village, Chesterfield boasts mix of contemporary and traditional housing.

It has excellent transport links to nearby towns and cities. Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham can all be reached easily within an hour, and London can be reached in under two hours by rail.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield.

A typical Harron Homes street scene for illustrative purposes only

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BRM unveils new brand identity and major office revamp

Derbyshire and South Yorkshire law firm, BRM has announced its rebrand after a period of significant growth across the organisation.

BRM’s new brand follows office expansion, targeted growth and high-profile appointments across the firm.

As well as a new logo, updated company values, and a new tagline, the rebrand sees the launch of the firm’s new website which better reflects the culture of BRM and the breadth of legal services it delivers nationally.

The company has completed a quarter of a million-pound refit of its Chesterfield office on Saltergate, whilst also expanding its Steel City House office in Sheffield by 3000 square feet.

Adrian Sheehan, Executive Director at BRM, said: “Our new brand marks a new era for BRM, and we’re delighted to share it with our clients, colleagues, and the community.

“Our updated brand better represents us as the firm we are in 2024. We’re a forward-thinking, innovative, and trusted organisation, and our new identity aligns with those values.

“Our new brand signifies the next step in our evolution and brings us up to date to reflect the quality of our services. One major step for us, is that we have dropped the word ‘solicitors’ in our name.

“We’re embedded within both the corporate world and the community, so our brand is now strong enough on its own. We will now be known as simply, ‘BRM’.

“We’ve served the people and businesses of South Yorkshire and Derbyshire for many years, and we are proud to be a strong pillar within the community. We have several charity and sporting partnerships within the region, which we look forward to continuing under our new brand.

“We’re a strong believer in company culture, and creating a positive environment for our teams to thrive in. We’re delighted both our Sheffield and Chesterfield offices have been fully renovated to fall in line with the re-brand which will add that extra bit of excitement around our new look.”

Thanks to recent expansion, the firm has appointed more than 20 new starters to its teams over the last six months, increasing staff numbers by 70 per cent over the last four years.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said: “BRM is a fantastic place for people to bolster their legal career. Our ability to provide jobs, recruit and retain employees from the local area is a source of great pride to us.”

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, added: “Our updated identity is simple and modern and better portrays our first-class service, our commitment to being a leading employer, and our delivery of industry-leading legal services.

“We’re very proud of our history, our people, and the services we offer, and we’re very excited that our new, modern brand represents the exciting future and new era for BRM.”

Visit BRM’s website for more information about their legal services: brmlaw.co.uk

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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East Midlands Chamber launches Generation Next Awards 2024 to celebrate region’s young talent

Young business talent across the East Midlands will be showcased through the Generation Next Awards as the programme launches its 2024 season.

The awards are the showpiece programme of Generation Next – a network for young professionals and entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, which is run by East Midlands Chamber in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby.

It features 12 categories, ranging from a Start-up Award and Customer Service Award through to Innovation and Technology Award and the Generation Next Future Leader.

The programme includes a new addition, the “Investing in Young Talent Award”, that recognises forward-thinking businesses which provide mentorship, training and growth opportunities for young professionals.

The application process of each category award is streamlined to a “one form fits all” method involving a reduced number of questions.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the amazing young talent within the East Midlands, and our diverse programme recognises the next generation of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

“We want to encourage young professionals from across the region to tell their story and celebrate their successes.”

This year’s ceremony will be held on 4 July, and the venue will be confirmed in the coming months.

Entries are open for the 2024 awards until Monday 11 March. They can be submitted either by individuals within the 18 to 35 age bracket or on their behalf by a colleague or line manager.

Applications can be downloaded at www.generationnextemc.co.uk/awards and should be emailed to the Generation Next team at gennext@emc-dnl.co.uk upon completion.

Generation Next Awards 2024 categories

  • Future Leader Award (sponsored by the University of Derby)
  • Apprentice of the Year Award (sponsored by Loughborough College)
  • Creators and Makers Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Customer Service Award (sponsored by Express Recruitment)
  • Entrepreneur of the Year Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Environmental Warrior Award (sponsored by Hydropath Technology Group)
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Award (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)
  • Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs)
  • Rising Star Award (sponsored by Nottingham Trent University)
  • Start-up Award (sponsored by University of Nottingham)
  • Volunteering and Charitable Impact Award (sponsored by ITS Technology)
  • New for 2024 – Investing in Young Talent Award (available for sponsorship)

Generation Next Awards 2024

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Refurbishment completed at Chesterfield town centre pub

A pub in the heart of Chesterfield, sitting next to the town’s historic market has undergone a refurbishment, with owners saying the venue looks ‘unrecognisable’ from its previous layout.

The Crown and Cushion has been revamped and transformed in the space of just six days, with visitors giving rave reviews to the pub for its new look.

After changing the exterior with a new coat of paint and signage last year, work has now taken place to brighten up the interior of the pub too.

The pub has been brightened up with much lighter pastel colours used throughout, complemented by feminine fabrics and patterns and lots of on-trend foliage with graffiti that incorporates features from the magnificent history of the market town.

Managers of the Crown and Cushion, Gill and Diane told us: “It’s such an amazing pub, with so much history and deserves the love that has been put into it with this makeover. We’ve seen lots of new faces at our launch party as well as the regulars returning, and everyone is absolutely loving the pub and what the company have done with it!

Crown and Cushion-bar area

The owners are also looking forward to the year ahead, with further plans to host entertainment and fun for guests.

They added: “We’ve got loads of exciting plans coming for 2024, with some great entertainment. Fun and friendly is our vibe – and that’s what this year is going to be all about.

“Head to the Crown and Cushion to see the transformation, and be sure to say hi!”

To find out more about the pub, head over to the Crown and Cushion Facebook page.

With plenty of unique ways to create a memorable night out, there is something for everyone in Chesterfield – no matter what you enjoy. Check out our visiting page for some great ideas and activities in the town: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Crown and Cushion interior

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Global Brands announces net zero strategy

Global Brands, an independent UK drinks company based in Chesterfield has committed to a sustainability journey to reach net zero by 2050.

The business is the largest supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK off-trade with brands including VK and Shake Baby Shake, and resides over the second largest premium tonic brand in the UK on-trade, Franklin & Sons. Global Brands acquired Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef from Molson Coors in 2023.

The sustainability journey for Global Brands commits to a path to net zero by 2050, with a 92% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset. By 2030, Global Brands will have a 40% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset.

The drinks business has achieved carbon neutral status this year, offsetting current carbon emissions while starting to reduce scope 1, 2 and some of scope 3 emissions. Emissions are based on an assessment by Carbon Footprint Ltd of the operational emissions across Global Brands facilities and transport activities.

Current carbon reduction strategies across the business include running operations from solar panels on the roof of the company’s 181,000 square foot warehouse, starting to switch the lorry fleet to HVO fuels, and commitments to reduce single use plastic across the business.

Key to the carbon reduction strategy is a focus on logistics and distribution – the main source of carbon emissions across Global Brands. By 2030, the entire lorry fleet will run on HVO fuels.

In the short term, Global Brands are supporting several projects that compensate for emissions that can’t be reduced immediately. To achieve this, Global Brands are investing in wind power initiatives in several developing countries, reducing and removing emissions, creating jobs and improving livelihoods, reducing dependency on other countries for energy, and protecting natural resources. These projects are across North West Africa, the Dominican Republic, and India, and are managed through Verified Carbon Standard, the world’s leading greenhouse gas crediting program.

Across the Global Brands portfolio, 100% of cans, plastic, and glass bottles are recyclable, with 90% of brands utilising 100% recyclable paper labels.

Zehra Gezer, Head of Marketing Projects at Global Brands: “At Global Brands, it’s our mission to continue creating and delivering delicious liquids and remarkable brands, enjoyed the world over.

“Many of our products such as Hooch and VK, are easy-drinking beverages for partying and fun, and these shouldn’t come with an environmental impact.

“Likewise, sourcing and infusing the most remarkable ingredients from across the globe into every Franklin & Sons product, shouldn’t be at the expense of increased emissions.

“Across Global Brands, we do recognise that we operate in a significantly single use industry, with many products in our category prioritising convenience over sustainability. But having a good time and enjoying remarkable drinks shouldn’t be at the expense of the environment.

“We understand that offsetting emissions is only a part of reducing our carbon footprint in the short-term, and long-term action is ultimately required to become truly carbon neutral.

“However, we believe it is important to do everything in our power to balance our impact as a business in the here and now, so we are proud to support a number of projects that compensate for the emissions we cannot reduce immediately by funding an equivalent carbon dioxide saving elsewhere.

“Through an active carbon emissions reduction strategy, we’re committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and this sustainability journey will underpin and encourage sustainable growth, especially as we continue to expand internationally and supply drinks that can be enjoyed the world over to more consumers.”

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

 

hooch global brands

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Chamber lands global accreditation for workplace wellbeing

East Midlands Chamber is helping to set the bar for workplace wellbeing after landing a global accreditation – with the help of the region’s top expert in the field.

The region’s largest business representation group has achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating at its offices in Chesterfield and Nottingham, following consultancy support from workplace consultants and office fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors, based in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

Administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating for buildings that focuses on operational policies, maintenance protocols, stakeholder engagement and emergency plans to address a post-Covid environment now and into the future.

WELL certification helps large and small businesses to take the necessary steps in order to prioritise the health and safety of their staff, visitors and stakeholders by reviewing environmental aspects such as air and water quality, nourishment, light, noise and comfort.

The WELL Health-Safety Rating focuses on stakeholder engagement, health resources, emergency preparedness and cleaning procedures. East Midlands Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “The pandemic shone a new light on how we manage workspaces in order to instil confidence among employees and visitors who use our buildings, whether it is everyday or on a hybrid working basis.

“We therefore felt it was important to adopt a recognised standard to ensure our buildings support the wellbeing of our people when they are working from the office in order to support collaboration with colleagues.

“Working closely with our patron Blueprint Interiors, we focused on areas including air and water quality management, cleaning and sanitation, emergency preparedness, health service resources, and stakeholder engagement and communication.

“As a result of these efforts, we are delighted to have received the WELL Health-Safety Rating, which we believe will enhance our offer as an employer of choice in the region while also acting as an exemplar for our 4,000-plus members.”

Workplace design consultancy and interior fit-out specialist Blueprint Interiors became the first company in the East Midlands to achieve the WELL Health-Safety Rating in 2021, and now supports other businesses to meet the requirements for accreditation.

Rebecca Beadle is a WELL-accredited professional, and lead project designer and well-being specialist at Blueprint Interiors.

She said: “We are continuously innovating in order to bring workplace consultancy, practical processes, sustainable building techniques, psychological theory, data insights and accreditations such as the WELL Building Standard together to ensure workplaces meet the needs of the people that use them. East Midlands Chamber has fully embraced all these principles and we are pleased to have been able to support it to achieve this prestigious rating.”

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

Dean Symonds and Lucy Robinson

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Rodgers Leask keep plans on track for new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Further details for the new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill Roundhouse have been revealed by one of the companies involved in the project.

National engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask is leading the design team currently working on RIBA Stage 4 designs for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield, which is awaiting planning permission.

The modern rail innovation and training centre will provide more than 1,400 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, and specialist research and development facilities – including a digital laboratory and commercial offices.

Appointed via the ESPO 2664 framework, Rodgers Leask’s involvement so far includes a full-service offering, comprising structural and civil engineering consultancy, geo-environmental engineering investigations and transport planning advice. The consultancy’s various experts are working to overcome the operational constraints posed by the busy industrial site, while also protecting the surrounding area’s interesting features – such as the historically significant Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Kriston Harvey, director at Rodgers Leask, said: “This is a very important project for the area and therefore we’re proud to be involved. Not only will it bring additional full-time jobs to the local area, it will also provide training facilities to enable people to learn new skills and open the door to highly skilled career opportunities in the rail industry. The research and development aspect of the building will see it become a prominent location for rail technology research and innovation, with fantastic links to the rail network.

“As everyone recognises the significant benefits that the project can bring to the community, engagement between the client, design team and other key stakeholders has been very positive and productive.

“Chesterfield has a clear vision for how it wants to develop over the coming years, with a strong plan for growth – it has been exciting to work with the council on this key project.”

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million, with funding for the project being provided through the Staveley Town Deal. Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail – part of Newcastle University.

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Rodgers Leask is working alongside architect Frank Shaw Associates, building services consultancy CPW and planning consultant Planning & Design Group. A planning decision is expected in early 2024.

For more information on civil, structural, geo-environmental and transport engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask, visit rodgersleask.com.

Rodgers Leask, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Chesterfield Borough Councill support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. The business is also a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group.

Driive artists impression

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