Celebrate Chesterfield

Planning application submitted for the Gateway at PEAK Resort

Revised Phase 1 planning applications have now been submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council for the Gateway at PEAK, which has been consented on 300 acres of land regenerated from opencast mining located on the eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park, outskirts of Chesterfield.

The Gateway is intended to play an important role in cementing Chesterfield as a destination town and as part of the Peak District experience providing visitors to the region and the local community with low impact ways to explore the National Park thanks to a zero-carbon travel hub.

Like a ski resort, PEAK Resort will be built around a carless mobility service, not in this case to mountains and skiing, but into the Peaks for biking and hiking, for nature, heritage, sport and culture. The commercial village will comprise of experiential retail, locally sourced dining and unique spaces for events, artisan craft and learning experiences.

Phase 1 of the development will create around 1,000 jobs across these sectors with a commitment to education and green skills delivered via an onsite skills academy.

The planning consents for PEAK Gateway Resort were implemented and safeguarded in 2016. The founders of Birchall Properties, the landowner, have already invested over 35 years in nature recovery, passive rewilding and preparation for the development on the 300-acre Birchall Estate which had been the subject of extensive open-cast activities.

PEAK PHASE 1 PLAN

The development footprint for Phase One of PEAK Resort is just 10% of the 300-acre reclaimed estate. The rest of the estate continues to facilitate ongoing work and experimentation to improve biodiversity net gain and research into suitable building materials for the future development which can be gathered and replenished. It is also currently home to Forest Schools, helping bring children from urban environments into the great outdoors in safe, educational settings.

Stanton Williams were recently appointed to design the Gateway at PEAK and in recent months key, strategic agreements have been entered into, which will be announced soon. These include:

  • Heads of terms with national retail brands to become anchor tenants for the commercial village element of the Gateway.
  • An agreement with a hotel operator to bring a flagship concept to Gateway and operate the 165-room hotel.
  • Heads of terms with vehicle and transport partners to operate the zero-carbon travel hub.
  • Agreements with regional education providers to develop education and learning opportunities at the Gateway.
  • Heads of terms with a leading UK Waste Management partner to deliver waste management solutions and enable an innovative circular economy with a focus on waste reduction and recycling.

Further information:

  • PEAK Resort is a phased development of national significance. Phase 1 will represent a £200m capital investment supporting and showcasing clean growth in the visitor economy across multiple sectors.
  • Section 73 and Reserved Matters Applications relating to the already consented planning approvals have now been submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council.
  • Outline and reserved matters approvals were granted for previous iterations of PEAK Resort. The revised Phase 1 has now been developed to incorporate latest best practice and operator requirements.
  • The Gateway will comprise zero carbon travel hub enabling carless access to and within the Peak District National Park, a 165-room resort hotel, a variety of F&B outlets and spaces for experiential retail facilitating all types of outdoor pursuits including a significant focus on horticulture and adventure sports.
  • The Gateway will deliver 1,000 new FTE jobs and key strategic partnerships and heads of terms are being reached with several parties which will secure the Gateway’s proposition as a travel hub, in education and skills, experiential retail, leisure, hospitality and accommodation.

Find out more about investment opportunities here in Chesterfield.

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

The Gateway @PEAK Bird's Eye View

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Why Chesterfield, Why Now? – Property and Construction firms highlight town’s investment prospects

Chesterfield, with its rich history and vibrant community, is not just a picturesque town with its unique Crooked Spire, but also a thriving hub undergoing a series of multi-million-pound regeneration projects.

Thanks to its strategic location in the centre of England alongside the M1 corridor with proximity to several major cities, Chesterfield has the ingredients that make it an enticing prospect for investors seeking growth and potential.

But don’t just take it from us, take it from the businesses which have invested here and call our town their home!

To coincide with the annual Chesterfield Investment Summit, we asked businesses in the town’s Property and Construction Group a simple question – Why Chesterfield, Why Now?

We think the responses below speak for themselves!

‘Tremendous support’

emily smith, holywell hotel by Voeberg

Emily Smith, Property Developer behind the highly anticipated Holywell Hotel by Voeberg said: “Chesterfield caught our attention initially due to its strategic location along the M1 and the opportunities for restoring and converting properties.

“The Council and local services have shown us tremendous support for our projects, which makes it an exciting place to be investing. Chesterfield’s unique local charm and welcoming community make it an ideal place to create something new to meet a growing market demand.

“It’s a town where you feel the warmth of support, and investing here has been a truly positive experience.”

‘Experienced workforce’

roy peters estates

Roy Peters Estates have been active in Chesterfield since the early 1970s and have seen many changes in our Market Town during the last 50 years. The company offers a locally focused letting and management service.

Emma Gallagher, Director, Office Manager and Head of Commercial Operations has seen a marked increase in quality retail and office instructions over the last six months.

She said: “Chesterfield is centrally located and remains a busy market town with a good retail offering and access to an experienced workforce.”

‘Thriving business landscape’

FI Real Estate Management is the company behind the recent £2 million refurbishment at The HQ in Chesterfield.

Tim Knowles, founder and Managing Director of FI Real Estate Management (FIREM), commented: “We have seen first hand the positive impact that our investment has had on Chesterfield.

“We’re passionate about putting Chesterfield on the map as a great place to work, improving its offering in line with nearby cities and enriching the lives of the local business community.

“Further investment is vital to ensuring the town continues to grow and develop in line with neighbouring cities, such as Sheffield and Nottingham, making Chesterfield a thriving business landscape for all.”

‘Excellent location’

Richard Hinds, hbd

HBD’s successful Markham Vale scheme continues to be developed alongside Derbyshire County Council. The project, off J29a of the M1 has ensured new premises for dozens of businesses and thousands of jobs for local people.

Richard Hinds, Senior Development Manager at HBD, said: “Chesterfield is an excellent place to do business, demonstrated by the huge success of our Markham Vale scheme. The development is now home to more than 78 businesses and has created over 2,700 new jobs.

“Chesterfield not only benefits from an excellent location at the heart of the UK transport network, but offers a strong local labour market, supporting companies as they continue to grow.

“HBD is pleased to invest in Chesterfield and look forward to progressing the expansion of Markham Vale, providing more high-quality industrial and logistics space to meet occupier demand.”

‘Extremely welcoming’

Phil Dalton Roofing

Dalton Roofing provides residential and industrial roofing solutions to people and businesses across the area.

Speaking about locating his business in the town, Philip Dalton, Owner of Dalton Roofing said: “I moved my business to Chesterfield in 2018, after running my business from Sheffield for 28 years, as you can imagine, this was a big change for me.

“Not only did I move my business, but I also moved my family to live in Chesterfield and I can honestly say I have never looked back.

“The location is fabulous, being close to the M1 and the Peak district, we feel central to all the areas that we cover.  The business community are extremely welcoming and offer great business support.  Chesterfield is up and coming and full of future potential.”

‘Training for tomorrow’s workforce’

Lime Living Jamie Wajs

Lime Living is an estate agency which recently expanded into new premises at The Glassyard.

Jamie Wajs, owner of Lime Living commented: “Our town is the ideal location, with it being very placed for excellent access to the M1 network, direct train links to London and other nearby major cities.

“We also have Chesterfield College and the University of Derby Campus providing education and training for tomorrow’s workforce. Not only is our town able to train and retain a business’s workforce through exceptional facilities and resources, but it can attract employees too, through the welcoming community living our town offers.

“For me, it is a no brainer for businesses to invest in our town! There is an excellent access to a wide range of local support networks and we also have a wide variety of commercial property. This ranges from land & new build, warehouses & industrial, business parks to Grade A offices, meaning our town provides excellent opportunity, whether it be a new start up, expansion, relocation or modern hybrid working hubs.”

‘A refreshing level of cohesiveness’

Investment Chesterfield Harworth Group

Harworth Group has acquired a 133-acre stalled brownfield site in Staveley, and is now bringing forward exciting plans to deliver 600 new homes, extensive green space and other amenities.

Joanne Neville, Head of Regional Planning at Harworth commented: “We have found all local partners to be engaging and responsive as we work with adjacent landowners to develop this important site.

“We have seen a real commitment from all local partners to promote the economic growth of the town, for example in the development of the Chesterfield & Staveley Regeneration Route, demonstrating a refreshing level of cohesiveness between the public and private sector. Chesterfield is definitely open for business.”

‘Great proximity to major road networks’

Chesterfield Champions - Jason Evans Mascot Management

Mascot Management has worked on several projects in Chesterfield recently, including The Glassyard and 33 new homes in Duckmanton. Jason Evans, Director at Mascot Management said: “I see the quality of life in Chesterfield as an important factor in attracting talent and investors.

Key factors like the lower cost of living, friendly residents and businesses, good access to cultural amenities, and the open countryside of the nearby Peak District make Chesterfield a great place.

“It has established industrial clusters, and business parks that benefit from being in the heart of the country with great proximity to all the major road networks, including the M1 motorway. This makes Chesterfield an attractive place for people to access, live and work”.

‘A great living environment’

Hannah Rutter Redbrik estate agents Chesterfield

Redbrik Estate Agents recently found in a study that Google searches had significantly increased showing interest in Chesterfield homes.

Hannah Rutter, Property Consultant at Redbrik commented: “The proximity to the Peaks make for a great living environment and offers ease of access to the countryside for their employees during their free time.

“Chesterfield is a fantastically efficient commuting hub for their business and staff with Sheffield, Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Leeds and Leicester all being within a 90 minute journey. A wonderful town with a great blend of character and modern, from the Crooked Spire to Casa Hotel.”

Want to find out more about how Chesterfield can provide the perfect location for your business base? Head over to our Invest in Chesterfield page.

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Superior Wellness Managing Director recognised among the most ambitious business leaders in the UK

Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness Ltd has been named one of The LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2023.

Created by trusted investment partner LDC – part of Lloyds Banking Group, and supported by The Times, The LDC Top 50 champions the business leaders who are pushing for growth and building successful medium-sized businesses.

This year’s nominations were of an exceptionally high calibre and the competition was fierce, showcasing the drive and determination that unites business leaders across the UK.

The leaders featured in The LDC Top 50 are growing their businesses at home and overseas, making a positive contribution to society and driving progress against their sustainability goals. They hail from every corner of the UK and span every sector of the economy. Together, they employ more than 6,700 people and turn over more than £1.2bn.

Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest-growing hot tub manufacturer with a vision to be the world’s market leader in hot tub and swim spas. With a network of 250 plus partners in more than 20 countries globally, sales increased by £48m in 2021 to £57m in 2022.  The level of growth that the business has experienced since launching in 2011 is commendable. This has been achieved through hard work, dedication and the direction of Rob.

Rob Carlin has been a driving force in the wellness industry since 2011. With his exemplary leadership and innovative vision, he has propelled Superior Wellness to become one of the leading hot tub companies in the world.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Superior Wellness Ltd said: “I am delighted to be included in this year’s UK Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2023.  Under my leadership I have expanded the portfolio of brands, reached out to prospects to grow the network and created a strong presence in the industry. I have also fostered a culture of innovation and creativity within the team.

“I always want to be moving forward and to improve as a company. I’m not happy sitting still.”

John Garner, Managing Partner at LDC, added: “We started The LDC Top 50 six years ago to champion the remarkable success stories of medium-sized businesses, the unsung heroes of the British economy. Since then, we’ve received more than 3,000 nominations and celebrated more than 500 business leaders through the programme, surpassing all our expectations. Every leader in this year’s cohort has a story as impressive as the next, and I’d like to congratulate them on their achievements so far. We can’t wait to see where they go from here!”

Find out more about business in Chesterfield.

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

rob carlin superior wellness

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Figures revealed at annual Investment Summit show new businesses are booming in Chesterfield

Official figures presented today at the Chesterfield Investment Summit show record levels of startups setting up in the Chesterfield area, alongside substantial growth in the town’s visitor economy and construction sectors. Survival rates for companies in Chesterfield far exceed the national average.

New business activity in Chesterfield, Derbyshire’s largest town, reached record levels in 2022 and is expected to grow again this year, according to figures shared today at the Chesterfield Investment Summit. Analysis of Companies House data, the official register of UK companies, shows that 1,021 startups with Chesterfield addresses were registered in 2022, 4% more than in 2021, and indicates the area is on track to create over 1,100 more businesses in 2023.

Analysis from Destination Chesterfield – the organisation responsible for promoting investment in the town – shows strong levels of new business activity in several sectors prioritised in Chesterfield Borough Council’s growth strategy, as well as encouraging signs for the town’s independent retail sector:

  • 92 new hospitality companies were launched in Chesterfield during 2022, a 10% increase on 2021 (84) and more than three times the number (29) created in 2012. Hospitality is a crucial component of Chesterfield’s growing visitor economy, which attracted 3.7 million people in 2022 (20% more than 2021), according to Chesterfield Borough Council. The visitor economy supports over 2,000 full-time jobs in Chesterfield and was worth £207 million last year.
  • 106 new professional services companies were created in Chesterfield during 2022, an increase of 29% on 2021 (82). They include 27 management consulting companies, 22 engineering advisory firms and 12 advertising and digital media specialists. Chesterfield is actively encouraging professional services firms to locate to the town to help achieve a 15% increase in higher-skill, higher-wage knowledge-based occupations for residents by 2030.
  • 99 construction startups were established in Chesterfield in 2022, 10% more than 2021 (90) and 55% higher than 2012 (64). Data from Chesterfield Borough Council shows the number of new homes built in Chesterfield has more than doubled over the last decade to reach 373 completions in the year to April 2023. Chesterfield has exceeded its new build target in each of the last four years and the council has earmarked several prime locations for new residential development as part of plans to build more than 4,000 new homes by 2035.
  • 124 retail and wholesale startups began trading in Chesterfield in 2022. Although this was down 5% on 2021 figures, it represents a 49% improvement over the last decade and is expected to grow to more than 150 in 2023. The number was driven, in part, by a threefold increase in online retail startups over the last decade. Entrepreneurs in Chesterfield launched 23 e-commerce companies in 2022 and are on track to create over 40 more during 2023.

Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “New business activity is booming in Chesterfield, which is seeing growth from homegrown startups and those relocating to the town from elsewhere.These outcomes are the fruits of a purposeful strategy to secure new business investment in Chesterfield and help our existing businesses to grow.”

Dr Huw Bowen - Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council

“Chesterfield Borough Council is supporting, either through direct investment or public-private partnerships, a series of projects to provide high-quality commercial space for businesses. It has helped bring to market almost 300,000 square feet of modern office, industrial, manufacturing and logistics space since the start of 2022, and expects further new premises totalling more than one million square feet to become available by the middle of 2025.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, comments: “Chesterfield is growing thanks to its location, its supportive community, the incredible lifestyle you can enjoy here, and the investments that are being made in high-quality business space and housing. We’ve seen more interest from local and incoming entrepreneurs post-pandemic, who are creating new jobs and opportunities for the abundant talent pool Chesterfield can access, and we expect that growth to continue as the town seizes new opportunities associated with the East Midlands devolution deal over the coming years.”

peter swallow speaking at Celebrate

Official figures also show that businesses based in Chesterfield consistently enjoy significantly higher survival rates than the national average. The latest data from the Office of National Statistics show that 62% of Chesterfield companies started in 2018 were still trading after three years, compared to 54% for all of the UK. Similar figures were recorded for businesses founded in 2016 and 2017.

More than 200 delegates, including domestic and commercial property investors and business leaders from the UK, attended the Chesterfield Investment Summit today. The Summit is organised by Destination Chesterfield and sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and Turner & Townsend.

Destination Chesterfield has received £180,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It follows a successful funding bid by Chesterfield Borough Council, to secure £2.69 million worth of funding for local projects.

spire drone 1

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Sustainable heating and cooling provider announces move to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

A cutting-edge provider of heating and cooling solutions has made Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre its new home.

Infrared Group Ltd. specialises in offering a range of efficient heating and cooling options, including air source heat pumps and air conditioning systems. The company’s flagship product, the Infrared Heating Panels, stands at the forefront of its commitment to providing innovative solutions for homes and businesses.

With extensive research driving product selection, Infrared Group believes its heating panels represent the ideal heating solution for tomorrow’s world. Products are tailored around the UK Government’s plans to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and phase out the use of gas boilers, with the main aim of future-proofing clients’ homes, businesses, and projects.

Aaron Joseph, Sales Director at Infrared Group commented: “We stock a wide range of top brands for air source heat pumps and air conditioning with products and prices to suit all budgets. With a focus on rapid growth, we are actively seeking nationwide partnerships with developers who share our vision for the future of efficient heating technology.

“We not only provide top-notch installations but also pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service. We’re embarking on a journey to a more efficient and sustainable future in heating and cooling.”

Leaders at the firm say they are ‘thrilled’ to be relocating to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

Nathan De La Rosa, Industry Specialist at Infrared Group said: “This strategic move stems from our commitment to both efficiency and accessibility.

“Chesterfield offers a prime location in the centre of England, providing excellent transport links to both the north and the south. Moreover, we are passionate about contributing to the development of the Northern Gateway and believe our presence here will help to play a pivotal role in our growth.

“The modern facilities at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre are nothing short of fantastic, aligning perfectly with our vision for the future. Furthermore, our founders and dedicated team of staff hail from the Chesterfield area, and we are deeply committed to putting Chesterfield on the map and contributing to the region’s progress. We have a vehement passion to build local relationships with fellow business owners in Derbyshire as well as nationwide.”

Looking ahead, the company’s aspirations are firmly rooted in building its brand and spreading awareness about the benefits of ultra-efficient infrared heating. Infrared Group’s mission is to collaborate closely with homeowners, businesses, and developers, empowering them to revolutionise their heating solutions.

Aaron Joseph added: “We hold a steadfast belief that as people increasingly recognise the immense advantages of infrared heating, it will become the standard in buildings of the future. Our journey at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in Chesterfield is not just about business growth; it’s about catalysing a transformation in how we all approach heating and cooling, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and efficient future for all.”

Chesterfield boasts a wide range of modern, well-connected and affordable office spaces available to assist businesses in their growth. Find your perfect office today.

infrared group team photo

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Ceremony celebrates construction of multi-million pound mental health facilities in Derbyshire

A new 54-bed mental health facility for adults is progressing in Chesterfield, providing acute adult care on the Royal Hospital site.

Integrated Health Projects (IHP), the joint venture between VINCI Building UK and Sir Robert McAlpine, has celebrated the ‘topping out’ of the Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s new mental health facilities across Derbyshire.

Mark Powell, Chief Executive of Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Simon Corben, Director and Head of Profession for NHS Estates and Facilities at NHS England, and Geoff Neild, Programme Director for the Making Room for Dignity Programme attended an event held at Derby Kingsway Hospital alongside members of the project team.

The pioneering new mental health facilities are delivered as part of the Trust’s ambitious £150 million Making Room for Dignity Programme – a project using a blend of central, regional and Trust funding to completely revamp the county’s mental health inpatient (hospital) facilities.

The works include the Derwent Unit, a 54-bed mental health facility for Adult Acute Care at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital, and the Carsington Unit, another 54-bed mental health facility for Adult Acute Care as well as a 14-bed Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit at Kingsway Hospital in Derby.

Every room across both Adult Acute Care facilities will be en-suite and temperature controlled, with the facilities also including a shared therapy suite, kitchen, indoor fitness room, online library resource room, arts room and access to a secured roof terrace and garden for wards on the first floor.

James Beardmore, Project Manager at IHP, said: “We are proud to celebrate this significant milestone for these important projects and the exemplary collaboration demonstrated by the project team. We look forward to delivering these adult acute care facilities for the Trust’s ambitious Making Room for Dignity Programme. Once completed, they will greatly improve mental healthcare services across the region.”

Geoff Neild, at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Derwent Unit at Chesterfield and Carsington Unit at Derby form the backbone of our dormitory eradication programme giving each service user their own en-suite bedroom.

“For those service users from Derbyshire requiring intensive psychiatric care there is currently no provision within the county and our service users are currently placed in out-of-area facilities. This has a huge impact on the ability of family and loved ones to provide support at a time when it is often most needed. Kingfisher House will provide a 14 bedded unit meeting the needs of male service users in Derbyshire. Along with the newly refurbished Audrey House the Trust can meet the majority of the needs of both male and female service users requiring high acuity facilities.

“I am delighted that these new facilities will give staff, service users, family and friends fantastic settings in which to deliver or receive therapeutic care and support.”

topping-out_group-photograph

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Transition Chesterfield opens Eco Hub thanks to community funding

Transition Chesterfield has benefited from Chesterfield Borough Council’s community grant funding, enabling them to open an Eco Hub in the town.

Based on Low Pavement in Chesterfield, the Eco Hub is a pilot project that will work with residents to:

  • Improve their awareness of ‘Transition Chesterfield’ and the aims and objectives of the community group
  • Improve their awareness of climate action and the protection of the environment
  • Improve their understanding of net zero and a more sustainable Chesterfield
  • Access further learning and volunteer opportunities

Transition Chesterfield was one of the local organisations to benefit from the first round of funding, receiving £2,500 to open the new hub in the town centre.

The Eco Hub is initially open every Friday from 10am to 12.30pm until May 2024 and may open at other times if successful in recruiting enough volunteers.

The Hub at Low Pavement itself is open most days though for other community-based activities.

A total of £59,965 has been awarded to 16 local groups via the council’s new Community Grants Funding scheme so far, and applications for the second round of funding are now open.

The council is looking for grant applications from community groups and local voluntary organisations in Chesterfield and surrounding areas who have climate focused projects to deliver.

Karl Deakin, a volunteer with Transition Chesterfield, said: “We’re excited to win this funding which gives us a much-needed base for our activities. Our hub project will encourage interest and participation amongst residents to reduce their carbon footprint. It’s also a great opportunity for people to volunteer to help our environment and meet new people.”

Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning, and environment said: “Climate change is one of the biggest challenges humanity faces worldwide, and it needs us all to consider how we can make individual changes to our routines as well as how we can will make substantial changes in the borough of Chesterfield.

“Community groups can play a huge part in helping to educate and inform our communities so we would love to hear about any local project ideas that could benefit from the available grant funding.

“Chesterfield Borough Council has more than £118,000 available to eligible local groups in this financial year (2023/24) so we are encouraging as many people as possible to find out more about the scheme and submit an application.”

The funding allocated through the grant scheme will support local groups to deliver projects that will build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

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.

Grants range from £500 to £6,000, and the deadline for applications for phase two is Friday 27 October.

Further information about the Community Grant Scheme, including details of how to apply can be found on the council’s website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/community-grants-fund.

Funding for Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community 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 community grants are just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was 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.

transition chesterfield eco hub

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Redbrik shortlisted for flurry of top estate agency awards

Redbrik Estate Agents has been shortlisted for a number of top industry awards as the firm celebrates further growth and success.

The company has been shortlisted for Best Large Estate Agent at the Yorkshire Residential Real Estate Awards, as well as nominated in four categories at The Negotiator Awards.

The categories include Employer of the Year; Property Management Department of the Year and New Homes Specialists, with Land and New Homes Manager Emma Liversidge shortlisted as Rising Star of the Year.

It comes after Redbrik introduced their revolutionary new service, SecureMove™, at the end of last year.

SecureMove™ is an industry-leading process designed to minimise fall-throughs, speed up sales and provide more certainty to both buyers and sellers by legally preparing properties for sale before they go on the market.

Managing Director at Redbrik, Mark Ross, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be nominated for so many incredible awards and I would like to thank the entire team for their hard work and dedication.

“This is our tenth year in business and we have achieved so much in that time. Since introducing Securemove™ last November, we have seen some fantastic results. We have successfully cut down completion times from the industry’s average of 150-180 days to an impressive 69 days, and on average, we are contract-ready in just 59 days. We have also seen our fall-through rates plummet to just 11 per cent, bucking the national trend.

“It is amazing to be recognised for the innovative and dynamic processes that set us apart from other agents, as well as the outstanding level of talent we have cultivated within the company.”

This year has seen Redbrik complete its 9,000th sale, make two new appointments to its board of Directors and grow to more than 60 employees across four offices operating in Sheffield and Chesterfield, as well as working hard to make changes which revolutionise the industry.

To find out more about Redbrik, visit www.redbrik.co.uk

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

Redbrik directors

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Government confirms Barrow Hill line to reopen for passengers in Chesterfield

The government has confirmed it will fund the reopening of the Barrow Hill Line to passengers after being used as a freight-only line for the last six decades.

The line was closed to the public as part of the Beeching cuts in the 1960s, but local officials have been campaigning to reopen it to passengers, in order to improve sustainable public transport for the region.

Prior to its closure to the public, the Barrow Hill Line line ran between Chesterfield and Rotherham. Trains stopped at Clay Cross, Whittington, Barrow Hill, Staveley, Renishaw, and Killamarsh.

Its re-opening is part of a number of local infrastructure projects announced by the government across the north and midlands.

The ‘Network North’ scheme was revealed at the same time as Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak announced that the second phase of HS2, which would have seen high-speed trains picking up passengers from Chesterfield, had been cancelled.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We have been working with our partners for the last few years to establish a strong business case for the reopening of the Barrow Hill Line and we are pleased that the government can now provide certainty on the future of this project.

“It complements ongoing investment in Staveley through the Town Deal and by the council and private sector partners – together these investments will help ensure Staveley residents have access to more employment opportunities and that the local economy can thrive.

“We were very disappointed with the Government’s announcement to cancel HS2 north of Birmingham, and we are still seeking clarity on what alternative investment may be coming to the Chesterfield borough area.”

In addition, Network North promises a number of infrastrcture improvements for our region:

  • Ensuring the delivery of 10 road schemes in the Midlands.
  • Supporting the incoming East Midlands Mayor with a new transport devolution settlement of £1.5 billion.
  • Extending the £2 bus fare through to the end of 2024.
  • Funding for hundreds of new local bus routes through Bus Service Improvement Plans.
  • Commitment to an additional £2.2 billion to tackle potholes.

It also comes just days after the announcement that a further £20 million has been allocated to improvements in Chesterfield, with a town board expected to be formed in order to formulate a long-term plan for the borough.

Find out more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield – a town with an excellent strategic location, affordable business premises and a wide-ranging network of support.

Chesterfield Rail Train

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Sorbus Finance announces move to Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

A Chesterfield finance broker, which supports businesses to get the best deals on vehicles, premises, equipment and cash flow solutions has moved into the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, one of the town’s flagship office developments.

Sorbus Finance was founded in September 2021, and has developed relationships which allows the firm to access a panel of over 70 lenders.

The company’s aim is to support local firms in gaining extra capital and profits to re-invest in their businesses, employees and local communities.

Sorbus Finance is able to support the town’s business community, ranging from start-ups through to some of the largest businesses in the area turning over £10M+.

Speaking on the move to the Enterprise Centre, Director Arran Turner commented: “Having grown up in Chesterfield I have always seen the potential in the town and the commitment that the business community in Chesterfield puts in to continually pushing for a better future.

“We have one of the best locations to conduct business with great links to the rest of the country, and the developments we can see around the town at the moment are a great visual advert for what we can look forward to in the years to come.

Following the success of Sorbus Finance’s first 12 months of business, the firm wanted to find suitable premises which was not only cost-effective and convenient, but also provided a home for for the future.

Arran said: “From the first time I viewed the Enterprise Centre, it was clear that this was right for my business. The modern and spacious offices, the great team that runs the centre and the other businesses located in the building all take great pride in the space, and want to see each other succeed. Alongside this, the location is perfect for us, close to the railway station, coach station, town centre amenities and road links.

“Chesterfield is thriving and stakeholders investing in Chesterfield have a clear vision for its future. Chesterfield is home to a diverse range of business and industries ranging from Manufacturing, Professional Services, Hospitality, Agriculture and so much more!

“The decision to stay in Chesterfield as opposed to moving towards Sheffield or Nottingham was an easy choice for me, I want to be part of the future of this town and everything it is looking to achieve.”

Over the next 12 months, Sorbus Finance aims to grow its team at different skill levels and is now engaging with local education providers. On top of this, the company is committing to Chesterfield in part of its ‘giving back’ programme, and will shortly be looking to find charitable partners it can work alongside, in addition to supporting one-off events.

Further to the financial brokerage, Sorbus Finance has developed an additional brand, The Lease Hub, which specifically helps businesses and private individuals navigate vehicle leasing in an easy-to-use format.

Arran added: “We are already helping local business move towards Electric Vehicles for the first time, grow their fleet of vehicles and ensure that their employees are travelling in cost-effective, safe and reliable transport.”

For more information of the services offered by Sorbus Finance, visit the company’s website. 

More than 80% of the offices available at Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre have now been let, within just over a year of its opening. Find out more about the modern, affordable office space available in Chesterfield.

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

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Government announces £20 million boost for Chesterfield

Chesterfield is set to benefit from £20 million over the next 10 years, as part of further government levelling up investment being provided to 55 towns across the UK.

Under the new approach, local people will be put in charge, and given the tools to change their town’s long-term future. They will:

  • Receive a ten-year endowment-style fund to be spent on local people’s priorities, like regenerating local high streets and town centres or securing public safety.
  • Set up a Town Board to bring together community leaders, employers and local authorities to deliver the Long-Term Plan for their town and put it to local people for consultation.

The funding follows a £25 million investment awarded to Chesterfield by the government’s levelling-up fund to revitalise Chesterfield town centre and the historic Stephenson Memorial Hall.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “This is good news for Chesterfield, which builds on our success in securing Levelling Up Fund funding for the restoration of Stephenson Memorial Hall and for revitalising our historic market grounds and high streets.

“The announcement also reflects the positive work that we have been engaged in over the past 12 months with the Government’s High Streets Task Force.

“Our aspiration is to strengthen the distinctive character and vibrancy of our town centres. Whilst we await the detail, the availability of additional funding and powers to make it easier for residents and visitors to visit Chesterfield town centre, to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and to make our town centre more attractive and accessible are to be welcomed.

“As the Government’s lead delivery partner, we will also be able to draw on our experience of bringing community leaders, businesspeople and representatives of other local bodies together to establish a new Towns Board, which would mirror that which the council has already established to oversee delivery of the £25.2m Staveley Town Deal.

“We must and will take advantage of all such opportunities. We want our town centres to be competitive, sustainable, safe, and dynamic places that create new openings for local people and support employment and housing growth, and from which visitors can explore the borough and surrounding areas.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “This extra funding for our high streets is extremely welcome, and will help to continue the ongoing work already taking place to regenerate our town centre.

“In Chesterfield, we’re already looking forward to several major improvements in the next few years, including a revitalised market, a refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall and improvements to the connections between key points of interest across the heart of the town.

“Whilst celebrating the magnificent history and heritage of our town centre, we must also be aware that high streets must constantly adapt to changes to ensure their relevance today, and in the future.

“Destination Chesterfield is committed to working alongside partners and businesses in championing our town as an excellent location to work, live, visit and invest.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “It’s promising to see a renewed focus on driving forward towns, which are inhabited by a large portion of our population and have a significant role to play in a successful and thriving economy.

“The changing face of towns, much like in cities, has created challenges in how we ensure they are fit for purpose as places for living, working and spending leisure time.

“A Long-Term Plan for Towns therefore feels like a vision our country has lacked for a long time in order to deliver on their economic potential.

“Local decision-making by those who know the area is crucial to this and gives us the best opportunity to create good jobs for local people, breathe new life into neglected places and unlock wider economic growth that benefits everyone.”

Located in the centre of the UK and sat on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Chesterfield is a great strategic location for your business. Find out more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Market at Christmas

 

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