Destination Chesterfield

Family fun returns to the town centre with the Christmas Elf Trail

The Christmas Elf Trail is back in Chesterfield and is ready for you to explore.

This is a fun, free activity for the whole family to enjoy, all you have to do is find the elves who are hiding in shop / venue windows in Chesterfield town centre, to be in with the chance of winning an annual family pass to Matlock Farm Park.

The trail is open from Thursday 24 November 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023 and can be completed at anytime that is suitable for you.

When you find one of the elves, you can scan the ‘Elf QR Code’ which gives you access to the special and secret elf webpages, which we have hidden on the Destination Chesterfield Christmas website.

Santa has hidden a letter on each of the webpages which spells out a magical word. Collect all the letters, unscramble them and spell out the special Christmas word and you will be entered into a competition to be in with a chance of winning the prize. You will need to fill in the online form to enter.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is a great activity that allows you to explore the town centre. Not only is it free but it is interesting too as you have to find all of the letters to spell out a festive word to enter the prize draw. I really enjoyed finding the elves last year, so I’d encourage you to give it a try too.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “The Elf trail is always hugely popular.  Why not combine this free festive activity with your Christmas shopping or a bite to eat with friends and family.”

You can find the clues to where the elves are hiding on the Destination Chesterfield website. Each of the elves have different names and will be pictured in the windows of different locations in Chesterfield.

You can also collect a paper entry form from the Visitor Information Centre in Chesterfield and return the completed form there to enter the competition if you would prefer to complete the trail in this way.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have teamed up again to host a variety of events across the town centre including the elf trail, Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa’s Grotto.

Find out more about all of the Christmas events taking place and more ideas of things to do in Chesterfield visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas.

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Posted in Apprentice Town, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

New business lounge unveiled in Chesterfield

Business growth and support company, Great2, hosted a successful launch event to unveil their new Business Lounge at their co-working space Great2Work in Chesterfield.

The event was well-attended with local businesses expressing their delight at the Business Lounge. “It is a great addition to the area, there isn’t a facility like this in the town”, “the meeting rooms and training suite are just what I need”. The new Business Lounge at Hayfield House (on Devonshire Street, off Holywell Street) is thought to be the first of its kind in the area.

The event heard speakers including Dom Stevens of Destination Chesterfield who highlighted the investment plans for Chesterfield, Andy Ball CEO of Great2 defined the ethos behind Great2, the new Business Lounge and why he is so passionate about helping local businesses to grow. Front of House, Hannah Finney revealed how memberships and bookings operate at Great2Work.

There was also an opportunity for our guests to network with the other local businesses attending the event over a drink and nibbles as well as a tour of the coworking space and meeting rooms. The lucky winners of our raffle prizes included John Batty of Paperclip who won the Casa Hotel B&B voucher, Paul Chapman from S40 Local who won a free Great2Work Business Lounge membership for 1 month and Mike Jones from the HQ who won a free Great2Work Day Pass for our coworking office in Chesterfield.

The Business Lounge was developed to attract freelancers, micro and small businesses to the town centre. Giving them a comfortable place to go for informal meetings with colleagues or clients and a place to work from in between meetings. With a monthly membership of £50 and no tie-ins, you can come and go as you please (no need to book). WiFi is included and there’s an ‘honesty box’ for refreshments.

Steve Wicks, Corporate Banking Manager, Handelsbanken, Chesterfield said of the event “Great to see the new Business Lounge. It’s an impressive facility and a great addition to Chesterfield’s offering for quality office/working space.”

Andy Ball, CEO of Great2 commented: “My vision for Great2 is to become the ‘go-to’ partner for local businesses who want to grow sustainably and make a difference. Our new business lounge is a first for Chesterfield and our aim is to give local businesspeople a professional, flexible and comfortable place to work from – keeping businesses in the town and using town centre facilities. The business lounge alongside our coworking space and business support services allows Great2 to provide a full suite of tools to help local businesses grow.”

Great 2 supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Great 2 Hayfield House

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

Chesterfield Champions getting into the festive spirit with eye-catching Christmas trees

A number of Chesterfield Champions have been getting involved with one of Chesterfield’s favourite festive events this year, after unveiling their designs for this year’s Festival of Christmas Trees.

The annual display, which takes place in the historic Crooked Spire Church brings together businesses, charities, community groups and other local organisations to show off their trees for the whole community and visitors to the town to enjoy.

The trees are on display from 17th-27th November, with the church also open for people to view the displays on the day of the Christmas lights switch-on and market.

Scroll down to see some of the fantastic trees donated by Chesterfield Champion businesses for this year’s event, and to find out more about the fun gifts, food & drink and activities you can find in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

Find out more about how your business can support the marketing of the town through Chesterfield Champions at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

Start Financial Planning

Start Financial Planning are using their tree to launch a fun charity competition for visitors at the festival.

Chartered Financial Planner, Steve Taylor commented: “Our tree this year is made from fake bank notes, and we’re asking people to guess the value of notes on the tree.

“The closest guess will get half the total value of the tree donated to their favourite local charity, and the other half will be donated to the wonderful folks at the Crooked Spire as a thank you for hosting the event.

“We’re delighted to be part of this year’s festival – it’s always a fantastic community event and we can’t wait to use our entry to give a little bit back.”

Rosewood Wealth Management

Shannan Pool-Gorman, Independent Financial Adviser at Rosewood Wealth Management commented: “Rosewood are proud to be participating in the festival of Christmas trees in the crooked spire church this year amongst our local businesses in the Chesterfield community.

“Our tree has been designed using recycled wood and a local business for lasering of the decorations, demonstrating our commitment to lowering our environmental impact and supporting sustainability. Within our decorations we wanted to showcase our team, services offered and our sense of humour by playing on words related to the financial industry within well loved Christmas songs.”

Jones & Co. Independent Financial Advice

This tree from Jones & Co. Independent Financial Advice is inspired by the sector the firm operates in, with newspaper clippings from the Financial Times and other relevant publications.

A spokesperson for the company said: “Wishing all of the wonderful people of Chesterfield a very merry Christmas from all of us at Jones & Co Independent Financial Advice”

Northern Tea Merchants

Did you know Northern Tea Merchants recently scooped two accolades at this year’s Love Chesterfield Awards?

James Pogson, Director at Northern Tea Merchants said: “Our tree is to celebrate the things our customers love about our business. Our leaf teas, our freshly roasted coffees and our fine quality tea bags are all featured as decorations. We are always busy at Christmas time thanks to our loyal and discerning customers and we simply could not exist without them.

“Chesterfield is a very traditional town at Christmas and many people come here, even in bad weather, to visit the Festival of Christmas Trees and to enjoy our lovely, bustling town centre and markets.”

Fairplay

Chesterfield charity Fairplay have set their tree up in front of the beautiful stained glass window backdrop this year… The charity supports children and young people with disabilities and their families across North Derbyshire. Fairplay offers support to children aged 0-25 with physical, learning, behavioural and sensory disabilities.

 

Sparky Ink Studio

Jane Marie Wright, owner of Sparky Ink Studio said: “Our Studio loves Christmas and we were delighted to get the chance to take part in the Christmas Tree Festival. Some of our students have worked really hard to create some decorations to reflect our Studio.  Our ‘Sparky mascot’ tree topper was created by trainee Dan and I think its finishes it off beautifully.

“The amount of effort that has gone into this year’s festival by all the businesses involved and the Crooked Spire is sparkly festive and amazing. Something needed during these darker days. A must see for anyone visiting Chesterfield.”

 

Junction Arts

Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts said: “This tree was built with our volunteers as a celebration of the amazing lanterns made each year at the Bolsover Lantern Parade and last year at Chesterfield’s Lantern parade.

“The Crooked Spire tree festival is such a fantastic festive collaborative event which really celebrates the diversity of local businesses, charities, and community groups in the Chesterfield community!”

Elliot Mather LLP

The Chesterfield law firm has pulled off an innovative design using a bookshelf and some legal books, topped with a sparkling star.

Bethany Grisdale-Downs, Marketing Executive at Elliot Mather LLP said: “We really enjoy taking part in the Christmas Tree Festival each year, not only does it encourage us to get creative, but we get to see some brilliant trees from other businesses in Chesterfield.

“This event brings the local community together and you can really see the effort people put in.”

Derbyshire Voluntary Action

Derbyshire Voluntary Action has used this year’s Christmas tree to highlight it’s ‘Feeling Connected’ project, which aims to tackle loneliness and social isolation across our town.

Find out more about The Hub on Low Pavement, which is a safe space where people can go to join one of the activities the organisation runs. Activities include a singing group, mindful photography, board games group and more.

Wilkins Vardy

We love the subtle nod to Chesterfield Champions on this tree by Wilkins Vardy!

Company Secretary Paula Towndrow said: “We are thrilled to be participating in the Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire again this year! It’s fantastic to see the local community come together for the occasion and spread some festive cheer at Chesterfield’s most iconic landmark.

“The trees all look amazing and seeing them in all their glory has certainly set us up for a very Merry Christmas here at Wilkins Vardy!”

Bluebell Wood Childrens Hospice

Bluebell Wood’s Tree has been put up in the spire to highlight the charity’s winter fundraising campaign. You’ll be able to spot the charity taking part in bucket collections across the town this festive period, and will also be offering a Christmas Tree recycling scheme in exchange for donations from local residents.

Isobel Wells, Regional Fundraiser for Chesterfield and Derbyshire said: “With only fifteen per cent of its funding coming from government sources Bluebell Wood is reliant on its fantastic supporters, without you the charity couldn’t reach as many people who need is as possible.”

Roy Peters Estates

This tree from Chesterfield Estate Agent, Roy Peters is celebrating all things local this Christmas, with all the decorations on the tree being either bought or made in Chesterfield!

Shorts Accountants

Shorts have been taking part in the Chesterfield Festival of Christmas trees since it began in 2014, and we are proud to continue to support this increasingly popular event.

Shorts was founded by Samuel Edward Short, in 1890. Back then, Samuel Short was a prominent individual amongst the Chesterfield business community, a benefactor of many local charities, the Mayor of Chesterfield (in 1908) and Churchwarden of the Parish Church from 1903 until his death at the age of 45, in 1914.

The Christmas Tree Festival brings everyone together – local businesses, organisations, charities, and education alike, in joint celebration of the festive period. Continuing to take part in this community event is very important to us, sitting alongside the connection that we have through Samuel Short.

The festival organisers very kindly ensure that our tree is always positioned in front of a plaque near the alter, commemorating his life, which reads “An earnest Churchman and a faithful citizen, who served well his Church and his native town.”

Banner Jones Solicitors

Ann-Marie Lowe, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones Solicitors said: “Banner Jones are one of the original supporters of the event and each year we have created something different, as we know how much it is enjoyed by thousands of local people.

“For many, it signifies the start of the Christmas season. Banner Jones has been part of Chesterfield for over 140 years and our tree this year will be adorned with photographs of how Christmas has changed over that time.

Mortgage 1st

Mortage 1st has put together a dazzling blue tree together for this year’s Festival of Christmas Trees, put together by their “very own Christmas fairy, Sarah Cave.”

The company said: “If you’re in or around Chesterfield over the next few weeks it’s definitely worth a visit!”

Adorn Jewellers

Laura Jo Owen, Owner of Adorn Jewellers said: “We’re so happy to be taking part in the magical Festival of Christmas Trees again this year. It’s such a joyful event and we love how it brings the community together.”

Vines Legal

Matrimonial and family law specialists, Vines Legal have set up their tree in the Crooked Spire, which features branded baubles and bows, and includes some mini legal books too!

R.P Davisdson Cheese Factor

The Cheese Factor is dedicating this year’s tree to a beloved colleague who sadly passed away earlier this year.

Simon Davidson, Owner of The Cheese Factor commented: “We are dedicating the tree this year to Georgina who worked at the Cheese Factor, sadly passed away earlier this year through Cancer.

“She loved Christmas and was always so excited to do the Christmas tree at the church each year. She was a big part of the Cheese Factor family and will be greatly missed.”

Milestone Financial Planning

Craig Croft-Rayner, Independent Financial Planner at Milestone commented: “We are grateful to be involved for a second year in this wonderful event, spreading Christmas cheer across the Chesterfield community.”

Sicily Restaurant

The winner of Restauarant of the Year at the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards has produced a special lemon-themed tree for this year’s event.

Sicily Co-owner, Monica Sardisco said: “We have been in Italy last week because had a little nephew born, and we bought decorations there… The tree smells of lemons too, so it’s very realistic!”

StraightCurves

This Chesterfield business are specialists in all things crafty, so it is no surprise to see some fantastic knitting, crochet and origami going into the decoration on StraightCurves’ tree!

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Global Brands announces £2 million distribution centre expansion

Global Brands, the leading independent drinks company and distributor, are increasing their distribution capabilities with significant expansion to their warehouse facilities in Clay Cross, Derbyshire.

The current Global Brands Distribution Centre has 152,000 sqft of warehouse space, employing 80 members of staff. This expansion will increase the warehouse size to 180,800 sqft, and add 30 members of staff to the production and distribution line at the facilities. The expansion will increase total storage capabilities at the warehouse from 30 million to 40 million bottles, across 17,000 pallets.

Following extensive groundworks, the steel frame is being erected over the next two months, and a concrete slab base will then be poured and set. Works for the 28,800 sqft extension will conclude in January 2023.

The expansion follows a sustained increase in demand versus 2019 (the last year of undisrupted trading) for the company’s portfolio of drinks brands, including VK, Hooch, Franklin & Sons, All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake, Beviamo, Kick Energy, Lustre, and Amigos Tequila Beer.

Steve Perez, Founder and Chairman at Global Brands: “I’m thrilled to announce the expansion of our distribution facilities in Clay Cross, following a sustained increase in demand nationally and huge demand internationally for our key growth brands like Franklin & Sons. The new extension will support our growing operations with additional storage and increased distribution capabilities.

“This is just the first phase in work to continue increasing capabilities at the site over the next two years. We plan to continue investing in our Global Brands Distribution Centre to the point where we can eventually hold one product for every person in the UK.”

Alongside the current construction, Global Brands has recently purchased an adjacent piece of land for further investment into the area and facilities. The acquisition was brokered by BRM Solicitors.

Adrian Sheehan Executive Director at BRM Solicitors: “It is always rewarding to advise on a deal which will bring further development opportunities and employment to the region.

“BRM are proud to stand to shoulder to shoulder with this long-standing client and Chesterfield success story.

“It is great to see Global Brands go from strength to strength and highlights a commitment to Chesterfield.

“The Real Estate team at BRM are delighted to advise Steve and the team at Global, who are always driven and enthusiastic to get deals done quickly and efficiently.”

Steve Perez adds: “BRM have advised Global Brands for the past 35 years, from when the business was just a one-man band, through to becoming one of the largest employers in the area. This is a credit to the expertise that BRM and Adrian Sheehan offer and cater to a variety of business needs.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an excellent place to invest and locate your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

 

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

Join us for a great Christmas in Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council is joining forces with Destination Chesterfield again this year to bring you a great selection of events and activities to enjoy in our town.

The Christmas in Chesterfield Campaign, called Everything for the Perfect Christmas, will run from Monday 14 November to 4 January 2023 and has been designed to include something for everyone.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There is lots to get involved in around Chesterfield throughout the festive season.

“The cost of living is affecting everyone, but we have lots of free things for you to do to get into the Christmas spirit, including completing the Elf Trail, visiting the Christmas Lights Switch On, taking a trip to Revolution House or wandering around one or all of our popular markets. We hope you enjoy everything we have planned.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council to promote the town and all that it offers this Christmas.

“Chesterfield has a rich mix of independent shops, stores and market traders as well as well-known high street names which offer something for everyone’s tastes and budgets – from food and drink to gifts and experiences. Shopping local this Christmas has never been easier and is an ideal way to support the local economy and its businesses.”

Shopping

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If you are looking to do some festive shopping, Chesterfield has a great range of independent retailers, offering treats and advice if you are unsure what to buy for a friend or family member.

We also have a number of markets taking place in November and December where you could pick up a few special gifts, as noted below:

If you are looking for more gift ideas for Christmas, visit chesterfield.co.uk/Christmas for locally sourced Christmas gifts, locally sourced food and drink for festive celebrations, great places to eat out with friends and family and more ideas for festive events.

Meet Santa in the Market Hall

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Booking is now open to meet Santa in the Market Hall this year. Santa will be welcoming visitors into his grotto on the Market Hall balcony from 20 November. The cost will be £6.50 per child, which includes a present. Places must be booked in advance online or at the Visitor Information Centre.

Turning on the Christmas Lights

The Christmas Lights Switch On – a firm favourite in the festive calendar – takes centre stage on 20 November. This will be a magical event in the heart of Chesterfield, and everyone is welcome.

The event will run from 12pm to 6pm, with the official lights switch on at 4.45pm.

This year’s special guest, in Chesterfield to meet families ahead of the lights switch on, is Shrek.

Shrek will be making personal appearances at intervals between 12pm and 3pm outside the Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square.

Elf Trail

Have fun exploring Chesterfield and find the festive elves who will be hiding in the windows of our local shops and venues waiting for you to locate them from 21 November 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023. Spot them all and you could win a free Annual Family Pass for Matlock Farm Park.  Find out more.

Attend our pantomime

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Tickets are now on sale to see Sleeping Beauty at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre. You can find out more and book tickets at www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/sleeping-beauty-pantomime.

Carol concert at Revolution House

carol concert at revolution house

Revolution House will host a carol concert on Thursday 8 December at 6.30pm with members of Holymoorside Band. Carol sheets will be provided, and we suggest everyone attending wears appropriate clothing and brings a torch (although there will be some lighting on site).

Revolution House will be open from Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December, 11am to 3pm.  It will be decorated for Christmas with traditional greenery, including a kissing bough, and a flower festival with arrangements throughout the house, created by volunteers. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

There is lots going on in Chesterfield throughout the festive season for everyone to enjoy, for more information visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

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Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Festive fun returns to Chesterfield with annual Christmas Lights switch-on

The Christmas Lights Switch On in Chesterfield will take place on 20 November, and everyone is invited to join us.

Families are invited to watch the stage show in the Market Place from 3pm, but there is a range of entertainment to enjoy in the town centre ahead of this as listed below. The lights switch on itself is at 4.45pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas lights switch on is one of my favourite events of the year. Residents and visitors will have lots to enjoy this year from meeting Shrek in Rykneld Square to seeing the live stage show, there is something to entertain everyone.”

The entertainment will be as follows – these acts will be performing at internals from lunchtime onwards:

  • The Rose Choir will be performing outside the library
  • You will be able to see the Phoenix Concert Band
  • The Pantonic All Stars Steel Band will be performing on Burlington Street
  • There will be walkabout entertainment around the market area including Band Beja, Glowbots, Carol Singing Christmas Crackers, The Greatest Showman Show, the Fairy Godmother and National ELF Service.
  • In the Pavements Shopping Centre, you will be able to see the Victorian Carol Singers performing between Boots and W H Smith
  • Outside Marks and Spencer visitors can meet Percy Pig

Chesterfield Museum

Chesterfield Museum will be offering a pop-up exhibit in the old Wards Shoe Shop (opposite Boots) where visitors can take part in Christmas crafts, Victorian games and handling objects from 10am – 4pm.

Crooked Spire Church

Visit St Mary and All Saints Church, otherwise known as the Crooked Spire, to see A Festival of Christmas Trees from 12pm – 5.30pm.

Stage entertainment

The stage show will start at 3pm and will include The Rose Choir (from Chesterfield Studios), the Carol Singing Christmas Crackers, Band Beja, and interviews with a Councillor and an independent trader.

There will be appearances from Santa, the Mayor and Mayoress and some of the Sleeping Beauty pantomime cast including a song by Olivia Bailey who plays Princess Aurora. The lights will be switched on at 4.45pm and then the crowd will be entertained by The Greatest Showman Show.

The entertainment programme is subject to change.

As one of our most popular events of the year, we expect a high footfall in the town centre so please allow plenty of time to both arrive and depart the event.

Tickets are now on sale to see Sleeping Beauty, this year’s pantomime, at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre. You can find out more and book tickets online.

Meet Shrek in Chesterfield

This year’s special guest, in Chesterfield to meet families ahead of the lights switch on, is Shrek.

Shrek will be making personal appearances at intervals between 12pm and 3pm outside the Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square.

There is lots going on in Chesterfield throughout the festive season for everyone to enjoy, for more information visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Made in Chesterfield returns to connect manufacturing and engineering businesses with next generation of employees

The annual Made in Chesterfield festival, which aims to get more local young people interested in careers in businesses operating in the town’s engineering, manufacturing, property and construction businesses has returned for the eighth consecutive year.

Co-ordinated by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership and sponsored by the Chesterfield College Group, the 2022 Made in Chesterfield festival was officially launched at Chesterfield College.

Speaking at the event, Reece Berry (20), Software Engineer Apprentice at Weightron Bilanciai and a former pupil of St Mary’s Catholic High School, said: “Young people need to be aware of apprenticeship opportunities in the engineering and manufacturing sector. They offer brilliant careers for young people.

“I chose to go down the apprenticeship route as I was passionate about IT and software development. I had the option to go to university, but I wanted to work in a real, live environment to gain a mixture of skills that would benefit me in multiple ways.

“Weightron Bilanciai is providing me with the training, support and skills I require to undertake the challenge of becoming a highly skilled software engineer and developer, this has given me the chance to explore and learn areas of IT I never knew about.”

During the four-week festival, which runs until Friday 2 December, young people from Chesterfield’s secondary schools will be introduced to the varied science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers available in local businesses through a number of workplace visits and events.

Performance vehicle specialist Scooby Clinic, engineering business MSE Hiller and manufacturer United Cast Bar are amongst a number of businesses who are inviting young people to their workplaces during the campaign.

The annual festival is playing a key role in helping address the technical skills shortage amongst businesses locally. According to the UK Commission for Employment & Skills, 43 per cent of STEM vacancies nationally are hard to fill, mainly because of a shortage of applicants with the required skills and experience.

Since launching in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has introduced more than 3,500 young people to the jobs and careers available within local businesses operating in the STEM sector.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the borough, commented on being part of the annual initiative: “It’s fantastic for us to be able to showcase our industry and business to young people and encourage them to consider a career path that may not have been on their mind beforehand. We have been involved with Made in Chesterfield since the campaign began and it has helped us attract young people into the business in both apprenticeship roles and work experience placements.

“Each year, Made in Chesterfield makes a real difference to local businesses, education providers and young people. I am delighted to see it return once again.”

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College Group explains, “It’s vitally important we continue our support for the Made in Chesterfield initiative. We are proud to play our part in the growth of engineering, science, technology and manufacturing locally. The increasing development of STEM in Chesterfield is something we have mirrored in our curriculum with investment in the latest technologies, such as 3D printing and augmented reality, all with a focus on sustainability.

“Partnering with initiatives such as Made in Chesterfield and working with local employers and schools, our core focus is to provide a clear, aspirational pathway for the next generation of local workforce be that through full time study, apprenticeships, T-Levels or higher education. Our mission of inspiring futures and changing lives is brought into clear focus through working with Made in Chesterfield and we are delighted to once again host this year’s launch event.”

Made in Chesterfield is delivered in association with the Chesterfield College Group and with support from Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and NatWest.

To find out more about Made in Chesterfield and how you can get involved, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

“Having a ready and skilled workforce will help us attract new investment to the area”

Destination Chesterfield Chair Peter Swallow has penned his views on the success of the recent Love Chesterfield Awards and looks ahead to the innovative MADE in Chesterfield campaign, which helps engage young people with manufacturing, engineering, property and construction businesses. 

As chair of Destination Chesterfield, I was honoured to attend of the Love Chesterfield Awards recently. As I looked around the packed room at the Winding Wheel, I felt very proud to be part of the town.

I saw passion, enthusiasm and dedication from the owners, employees, family and friends of the 34 businesses represented there on the night. All the businesses were independently owned and many of them operate on the high street. Through these businesses and the investment being made in the town, I am confident we are creating a town centre that will meet the needs of not only shoppers and visitors but the businesses that are based there.

The town centre of the future is one that delivers an experience, a product or service that you can’t get online or from an out-of-town retail park or shopping centre. Independents are critical to this vision. It is not only their products and services that people visit them for, but also their warm welcome, knowledge and customer service.

The town has a long and proud tradition of independent businesses that starts with our market – described by Cllr Kate Sarvent at the awards as ‘the beating heart of Chesterfield’. It may have its origins in the 13th century, but the market is as important to our future as it is to our past, proven by Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambitious plans to develop the spaces within the market.

Internet shopping has been a large factor in this as have our increasingly busy lives. However, Chesterfield has all the raw ingredients to create a thriving town centre of the future – a multi-functional social centre. They are about enjoyment, creativity, learning, socialising, culture, health and wellbeing and democratic engagement – a ‘21st century agora’ where people engage in the life of their locality. Independent businesses are key to this, as are event spaces and town centre living.

Through annual campaigns like Love Chesterfield and the town’s manufacturing and engineering sector celebration – Made in Chesterfield, which takes place this month, we aim not only to celebrate the sectors but also raise awareness of the plethora of careers and opportunity available in them to young people. They are the future skilled workers of these sectors and key to the businesses already here thriving but, having a ready and skilled workforce will help us attract new investment to the area. Likewise, we must also ensure we create the environment that young people want to live and grow their career. Investment is happening throughout the borough to ensure this.

£26million alone is being spent enhancing the town centre. Work has begun on improvements to the Market Place, New Square, Corporation Street, Rykneld Square and Burlington Street.

Together with the major refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall on Corporation Street and the reimaging of the market and market squares we will have a town centre that delivers on every level and, importantly, for everybody. Young people in particular I hope, will see a future for themselves on the high street as both shoppers, visitors and entrepreneurs.

The £26million project is aptly named Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield’. Looking around the room at the Love Chesterfield Awards – seeing both the winners and finalists, I can say with confidence that Chesterfield’s town centre has a very strong heartbeat already.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre praised by tenants for accessibility, facilities, sustainability and style

Seventeen businesses have made Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre their home since it opened in July this year. The flagship office development has let more than 50% of rooms in just four months after opening.

Targeted at new and growing businesses in Chesterfield, the 32 high quality office suites spread over three floors have attracted tenants from a range of sectors and industries into the town centre, including recruitment, IT, design, marketing, education and training, and fashion.

The building is part of the £19.9m scheme to breathe new life into the northern entrance to Chesterfield town centre and is Chesterfield Borough Council’s newest enterprise centre. It was part funded through a grant from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Investment Fund, with additional funding provided by Chesterfield Borough Council.

Providing 26,000 sq.ft. of modern workplace accommodation, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre was designed to ‘provide a new contemporary landmark which will enrich the urban fabric of the town’.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to see so many new businesses moving into the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. We’ve built on our experiences at Tapton and Dunston Innovation Centres to develop this building and it is already evident that we have been successful in creating a modern environment where Chesterfield’s budding entrepreneurs can collaborate and flourish.”

Tenants have praised the centre’s location, citing it as a primary factor in their decision to make the centre their new home. “Good transport links,” were the primary factor for Logical Personnel Solutions for choosing Northern Gateway as its new home.

Izabella Edwards, Managing Director at Edwards Employment Solutions Ltd. commented: “Our move to the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has been an absolute game changer for us.  From a business point of view, we are benefitting from the excellent location. People looking for a new job are able to pop in and see us when they are in town, and we even have our clients from local businesses coming in to see us.

“We now have such modern and functional facilities to host people – it’s really working well for us.  In addition to this, my team and I are really enjoying being back in Chesterfield Town Centre and making the most out of shopping and eating out at lunchtime.  I would encourage any business thinking about making the move to go for it, we’ve certainly not looked back.”

The central location and transport links were also key for Potentia Teaching School Hub which acts as a ‘local’ centre of excellence’ for schools in Amber Valley, Bolsover, Chesterfield, Derbyshire Dales, High Peak and North East Derbyshire.

Alan Kealy, Director of Potentia Teaching School Hub, explained: “As a DfE designated hub for six areas within Derbyshire, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre enables us to provide a professional service from a central location so that we are able to support nurseries and schools effectively.”

The high quality interior of the building has been a major pull for a number of tenants, including James Taylor, founder and managing director of Roaring Mouse Public Relations, one of the first businesses to relocate to Northern Gateway in July. He explained: “This is a space that impresses customers and inspires our people. We are delighted to have a stylish, contemporary office that supports collaboration and enables us to do the best work possible for customers around the world.”

Lucinda White, director of Pure Awards, who moved into the centre in September, commented: “Not only is it an ultra-modern space, with floor to ceiling windows and instant hot water on tap but it is the ideal environment for the ‘agency’ feel business of Pure Awards.”

Accessibility and sustainability are central to the building which has been designed by Chesterfield architects Whittam Cox. The building has also been designed to minimise its impact on the environment and achieve considerable efficiencies in energy use.

The sustainability and accessibility credentials of the building were key for Kakou Technologies when selecting the centre for its new home. Ann Fomukong-Boden, co-founder and MD explained: “As a Disability Confident employer designing inclusive and accessible technologies, we required office space with good access to local transport links, not only for our staff, but for our visitors. The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is fully accessible, matches our sustainability principles through the excellent BREEAM rating and centre environmental policies, and provides us with the flexibility we require to grow our business.”

Accessibility was also important for Gillian Scotford, a leading disability campaigner and founder of AccessibleUK.  Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre proved the perfect location for the organisation when she decided to make the move from being home to office-based.

She explained: “The time was right for AccessibleUK to have an office base where we could bring our clients from across the country to our beloved Accessible Derbyshire to deliver training and provide consultancy. The Northern Gateway Enterprise centre is somewhere we feel extremely proud to welcome businesses to such a wonderful, expanding market town with great transport links and accommodation provisions.”

The town centre location was a pull for East Midlands Chamber which is soon to lease space in the building in addition to its headquarters outside the town centre. The additional space will be used as a convenient drop-in meeting point for Chamber members.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber, explained: “We want to create a members’ lounge for them to drop in and use as they see fit, while it adds more meeting space in addition to our headquarters in Dunston Road.

“We are excited to see the range of benefits the centre will have on the growth of businesses and the creation of jobs in Chesterfield, both of which will provide a boost to the town’s economy.”

Inside, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre boasts 24/7 access, IT fibre connection which offers maximum speed multi bandwidth capability, Wi-Fi and air conditioning throughout. Each office benefits from access-controlled doors and CCTV coverage is available in internal communal areas and external areas.

Within the centre itself, there is a shared reception and lobby area, two meeting rooms, a break-out area and kitchenettes, bicycle storage, shower and changing facilities, lift access and individually metered power supplies.

The interior of the Enterprise Centre has been designed by Amy Revell, Co-Founder and Director of We Are Spaces Limited, who is now also a tenant at Northern Gateway. She said: “Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has given us Grade ‘A’ office space for people to work in. These workspaces are comparable to those in bigger cities like Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester which deliver the connectivity for hybrid working for a better work/life balance.”

The building fronts Chesterfield’s new office campaign which was launched earlier this year. The campaign, which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, has been developed by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire Economic Partnership.

The campaign also showcases One Waterside Place a new Grade A office development. Together with the Enterprise Centre, the buildings add to the town’s already impressive portfolio of properties. Together they add more than 100,000sq. ft of additional high quality office space to the town’s offering, enabling the town to capitalise on the ‘flight to prime’ trend for office space.

In addition to One Waterside Place and the Enterprise Centre, the campaign promotes the range of excellent office and flexible workspace available in the borough, including the Innovation Centres at Dunston and Tapton, The HQ, Great2Work, West Studios and The Glass Yard.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “Chesterfield meets the needs of new, growing and established businesses, offering a central location and connectivity, to a local skilled workforce and now, high quality, sustainable office space.

“The new office developments send an important message both locally and nationally that Chesterfield can meet every stage of a business’ life cycle from start-up to maturity.

“The investment in high quality workspaces across the borough will continue to help us to attract further businesses to invest in Chesterfield benefitting the locally economy now and for future generations.”

More than 70 people are now based at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, with numbers set to grow further as businesses secure office space in the building. This will bring additional footfall and custom to surrounding businesses in the town.

Councilor Gilby added: “The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre will support our economy but will also help ensure our entrepreneurs can receive the support they need to see their business thrive. I want to welcome all our tenants and wish them the best of luck; the development of this building is a celebration of their entrepreneurial spirit and the benefits it will bring to our borough.”

To learn more about available office space in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/office/

Or to find out more about office suites in the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, visit https://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/enterprise

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield’s Central Technology celebrates 20 years of business

A Chesterfield company, which provides IT, telecoms and cyber security support has celebrated 20 successful years of trading in the town.

To celebrate the milestone and outline its vision for the future, Central Technology has announced a major rebrand, new website and a major offer to its customers.

The rebrand has given CT the opportunity to reflect the changing times, the firm’s growth, approach, achievements, and innovations over the past two decades and importantly demonstrate why it is different to other IT providers.

The company’s new website also reflects this and gives visitors more of an insight as to why people love to work for the company, and how its IT solutions are making a big difference to customers.

To celebrate this major milestone, CT is offering 20% off professional services until the end of November. Click here for further details.

Ian Snow, Managing Director of Central Technology said: “Continuing to succeed after 20 years in the IT Support/MSP industry is no mean feat.  Our success and growth is down to our committed and brilliant team who continue to provide the support our customers need.  Being in IT can be pressurised at times, but the culture that we have grown here at CT has created a relaxed, supportive and friendly working environment which we are very proud of and continues to drive the success of the company.

“With over 70 people based in our HQ here in Chesterfield, we are set to continue to grow over the next few years as we continue to expand our services nationwide.  To mark this milestone, we have re-branded to reflect how far we have come, our approach, achievements and innovations over the past two decades and importantly to demonstrate why we are different to other IT providers.”

Speaking on doing business in the town, Ian commented: “Being based in Chesterfield for 20 years is true testament to how much we value the town and are proud of how its developments past, present and future, which have continued to strengthen the economy, encourage more businesses to relocate and importantly drive more talent to the area.

“Importantly, its central location and transport network has allowed us to expand our services nationwide to support even more customers across the country.”

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Housebuilder announces launch of 150 new homes in Brimington

A new development in Brimington is continuing to progress, with show homes now available to view on the site which will bring 150 houses to the area.

Construction of the houses on the Brimington Heights site is being carried out by Bovis Homes (part of Vistry Yorkshire), and comprises of 150 three, four and five-bedroom homes.

It provides options for those stepping onto the property ladder for the first time, growing young families, as well as those looking for a place to downsize after their children have flown the nest.

As part of local authority planning conditions for the development, Bovis Homes injected just over £100,000 into the local community, including £57,060 to NHS North Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group.

The development also includes a number of ecological enhancements, such as a native hedgerow that has been planted along the northern boundary of the site, providing a landscaping buffer as well as a feeding corridor for wildlife.

Offering the best of both worlds, Brimington Heights is perfectly positioned just minutes away from the heart of Chesterfield, and on the edge of the Peak District National Park. For those looking to venture a little further afield in any direction, Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield are easily accessible by road or rail.

The developer launched the new homes by inviting viewers onto the site for a spooky family fun day to coincide with Halloween.

All weekend (29-30th October), Halloween crafts, face painting, pumpkin carving and even a ‘trick or treat’ treasure hunt were on offer for kids of all ages. Adults enjoyed a glass of fizz on arrival and a selection of nibbles as they took an exclusive peak at the show homes on site.

The Brimington Heights sales team were on hand throughout the event, to talk through new price releases for the properties on offer, as they helped a range of homebuyers understand how they could own a new home on the development.

Living in Chesterfield and the surrounding area is affordable and offers something for everyone. Find out more about what the town has to offer at: Living in Chesterfield | Destination Chesterfield

To find out more about major developments and regeneration currently taking place across the town, go to: Chesterfield Developments | Destination Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

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