Destination Chesterfield

Prominent former council building to be converted into dozens of apartments

A building on the edge of Chesterfield Town Centre is set to be given a new lease of life, with work starting on the conversion of the former North East Derbyshire District Council offices on Saltergate.

The developer, Homes by Holmes has unveiled plans to turn the prominent building into 59 contemporary apartments, with a generous split of three bed, two bed and one bed properties.

Despite being in such a prominent location in the town, the property has stood vacant for over four years. However the company says it plans to bring the building back to its former glory.

The firm has outlined a 24-month build timescale for full completion, with an aim of having the first phase of apartments ready for occupation before Christmas 2022.

Homes by Holmes believes the project will bring countless benefits to the town, including job prospects and work for local businesses, contributing towards the revival of the town centre and high-street retailers with increased footfall, and an opportunity for local residents to get on the property ladder in the face of current housing shortages.

Securing the development also means a lot to the company’s owner, James Holmes, who grew up working on the Chesterfield’s historic markets.

He said: “I’m extremely pleased to have secured this development because of my family’s connections to Chesterfield. I see it as a big responsibility to regenerate the building and the immediate vicinity.

“I’m proud of the fact that I’ve built the business into a position that we can make a difference in the town I have such a connection to, particularly in a building that is so high-profile. I really think we’re bringing something better here.

“Subject to us getting planning permission by the end of the month, I would expect the first phase to take around 15 months and we’re hoping for the second phase to only be six months behind that, with a potential third phase taking around a year.”

The company has already taken steps to make the site more pleasing on the eye, including the installation of colourful banners in the windows of the building to celebrate the Chesterfield ‘In-Bloom’ campaign, which aims to make the town a cleaner and greener place to live, work and visit.

To find out more about the wide range of regeneration taking place across Chesterfield, go to https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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Talented Chesterfield professionals recognised at inaugural ‘Generation Next’ Awards

Talented young people working within several Chesterfield businesses have been given recognition at East Midlands Chamber’s first ever Generation Next Awards.

The ceremony celebrated emerging talent across the whole region, with Chesterfield’s Oasis Studio, GBS Apprenticeships and Banner Jones Solicitors named amongst the winners.

The Excellence in Innovation and Technology Award was given to Tony Buck, who has led Chesterfield-based creative design studio Oasis Studio’s EyeSiteView team, which is aiming to transform how residential property is traded by using virtual and immersive technology.

Coral Guard of GBS Apprenticeships took home the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ accolade, on the same day as the company’s grand opening of its new offices at Chesterfield’s Markham House.

The winner of the Customer Service Award was announced as Jenna Hadfield, who works for Chesterfield’s Banner Jones Solicitors as a will writer, based at the company’s offices on Glumangate and in Dronfield.

East Midlands Chamber director of resources and Generation Next lead Lucy Robinson said: “Generation Next is a really exciting new initiative from the Chamber and we’re delighted to have held our first major event, which was a fantastic showcase of the amazing young talent we have across the East Midlands.

“Young people don’t always receive the recognition they deserve but we hope that celebrating their achievements will provide the confidence they need to continue growing as they develop within their careers.

“Our winners are an incredible advert for our region’s entrepreneurial instincts and we can’t wait to continue supporting them as their careers develop.”

Professor Kamil Omoteso, pro vice-chancellor and dean of the University of Derby’s College of Business, Law and Social Sciences, said: “Since the University of Derby became a partner in the Generation Next scheme earlier this year, it has been fantastic to see how it is providing valuable support to young professionals across our region, and I would like to congratulate the East Midlands Chamber on developing this very welcome initiative.

“Celebrating the success of young people through these awards demonstrates the huge talent that exists across all areas of employment and enterprise. Recognising innovation and impact, entrepreneurial skills and the positive effect of volunteering in our communities are excellent measures of their skill, knowledge and dedication.

“Leadership is a vitally important quality which we integrate across our curriculum at the University of Derby and deliver to our local business community, so the Generation Next Future Leader Award, which we have sponsored, is a particularly exciting category for us, identifying those who have already made a significant contribution to their industry and have the potential to make a real difference in their field.”

Generation Next was established by East Midlands Chamber last year as a network for young professionals to make connections, build new skills and advance their careers.

It features networking sessions and educational events on topics such as marketing, brand awareness, sales and personal finance, as well as the awards.

A board of 12 “champions”, consisting of young people in the East Midlands business community and two University of Derby students, lead the network.

The Generation Next Awards will be broadcast again by Notts TV in the coming weeks.

For more information about the Generation Next network, visit generationnextemc.co.uk.

Generation Next Awards 2021 winners

Breakthrough Award (sponsored by Nottingham University Business School)

Winner:

Daniel Jones – Professional Heating Solutions

Finalists:

Holly Daulby – Honest Communications

Max Poynton, Jacob Watts and Matthew Bond – Project D

Kate Johnson – Rate Social

Junyi Xiao – W&W Trading and Consulting

 

Excellence in Innovation & Technology Award (sponsored by GBS Apprenticeships)

Winner:

Tony Buck – EyeSiteView (Division of Oasis Studio)

Finalists:

Rikan Patel and Tanrik Patel – Business 2 Business

 

The Community Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs)

Winner:

Charlotte Robey Turner – Leicestershire Cares

Finalists:

George Hanvere and Elliot Dipper – Paragon Law

Nisha Pahuja – Charnwood Regency Guesthouse Limited

Katie Gilbert – TTK Confectionery

 

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Loughborough College)

Winner:

Coral Guard – GBS Limited

Finalists:

Chloe Newton – BEDE Events

Chris Guard – GBS Limited

Chloe Deville – Hardy Signs

Olly Torrence – Purpose Media

 

Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Fraser Stretton)

Winner:

Max Poynton, Jacob Watts and Matthew Bond – Project D

Finalists:

Trent Peek – CCM Group

Holly Daulby – Honest Communications

Jordana Chin – Nutri2Go Ltd

Aaron Gent – Aroment

 

Customer Service Award (sponsored by East Midlands Chamber)

Winner:

Jenna Hadfield – Banner Jones Solicitors

Finalists:

Beth Bearder – Keebles

Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions

Emily Marriott – Order Blinds Online

Evie Margetts – Corporate Architecture

 

Generation Next Future Leader Award (sponsored by the University of Derby)

Winner:

Kate Walker – ExpHand Prosthetics

Finalists:

Edward Morley – Rise & Recline

Harry Dodge – Far-UK

Leah Binney – TTK Confectionery

Theo Kirk – Express Recruitment

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GBS Apprenticeships expands into new Chesterfield town centre offices

Chesterfield-based training provider GBS Apprenticeships has expanded its operations, by moving into a new premises at Chesterfield’s Markham House.

GBS provides a wide range of training programmes, with courses ranging from one-day tailored solutions to employer-led apprenticeship programmes that support businesses in sustainable growth.

The company was previously situated in Chesterfield’s Market Hall, however the move to Markham House comes after a period of significant growth over the last few years.

Chesterfield MP and Shadow Minister for Apprenticeships & Skills, Toby Perkins was in attendance at the event.

Declaring the new GBS office officially open, he said: “It’s really important that there is a huge investment in the next generation so it is fantastic to have worked with GBS Apprenticeships over the last year or so. I’ve actually got an apprentice from GBS working in my office too.

“I think it really is important that we make sure all businesses know we can invest in the next generation coming through, and that there is funding there to support businesses who want to take an apprentice on.”

Steven Guard, CEO at GBS Apprentices commented: “We now have three really good-sized training rooms and can accommodate a lot more people in the centre. It is really ideal having the job centre nearby and other services around us to make a difference locally providing a quality education to young adults and older apprentices too.

“What we want to do with this centre is make it a resource for Chesterfield. Not only is it a great centre for us to deliver our training, we want it to be a facility for other partnerships and initiatives in Chesterfield to use as a venue to further the initiatives that are going on here.

“We’re aiming to be a digital centre and really start to be able to equip people with those vital digital skills that can get them on those career paths. We want to be that go-to place where people can come. We’ll never stop speaking to people and giving advice to people. We need to have that community of providers to make the best of what we have here in Chesterfield.”

GBS Apprentices support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Citizens Advice Chesterfield appoints youngest ever trustee

Phoebe Sellars (22) has been appointed as the youngest ever trustee of Citizens Advice Chesterfield.

Phoebe, who hails from Chesterfield and is a Business Development Manager at Chesterfield-based bridging finance company Bridge Help, will be officially voted in as a trustee of the charity later this month.

Welcoming her to the volunteer role, Linda Moore, Chair of Citizens Advice Chesterfield said: “Phoebe’s enthusiasm and energy is contagious and, as a charity, we need people like her to help raise awareness of our cause and appeal to a broader audience. Quite often people don’t realise that we are a charity and as such, we do need to raise funds. We are delighted to welcome her on board.”

As a trustee, Phoebe will help create, shape and deliver a strategy that supports the aims and principles of Citizens Advice Chesterfield which is to provide help to those who are in need in the local area.

Phoebe is no stranger to charity work. Last year she was responsible for organising Bridge Help’s Christmas collection for Chesterfield Food Bank. It resulted in more than £1500 of much- needed food and toiletries being donated by the local business community.

Delighted to take up the role of trustee, Phoebe said: “This is a real honour for me. I live and work in Chesterfield and feel passionately about strengthening the community that I live in, work in and love. Citizens Advice Chesterfield does such good work for so many people in my home town.

“I’m really eager to take on this new challenge in my life. The pandemic has hit many young people hard and as a young person, who has been very fortunate to have had the opportunities in life that I have had, I really want to give something back. Becoming a trustee with Citizens Advice Chesterfield is an excellent way for me to do this.”

Chesterfield Citizens Advice, which is based at Broad Pavement, helps people who live within the borough of Chesterfield, by providing support with debt and money advice, financial skills, fuel poverty, welfare benefits and advice at GP and community settings. It is part of the national Citizens Advice network which through independent charities offers confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free.

The national Citizens Advice charity was established in 1939 to meet the needs of a civilian population during war time. Since then, the network of independent charities has become a vital service to many people with problems and in need of good quality independent advice. During the pandemic, the charity faced unprecedented challenges with the demand for their services rapidly increasing. In their busiest week, their website alone had 2.4 million views.

To access advice and support from Chesterfield Citizens Advice, please contact 0808 278 7843.

Citizens Advice Chesterfield and Bridge Help support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Plans to revitalise Chesterfield Market

The rejuvenation of Chesterfield Market is moving forward as Chesterfield Borough Council considers ambitious plans to create a vibrant open-air shopping experience with new event space, seating, and landscaping

Drawn up following a first round of consultation with local market traders, town centre businesses and residents, the draft Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield Vision Master Plan is to go before the council’s Cabinet on 20 July.

If approved, the draft Master Plan will be subject to further consultation before specific delivery plans are finalised – with initial work set to begin early 2022.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centre and visitor economy, said: “Like towns everywhere, Chesterfield must address the challenges that the rise in online shopping presents to the future sustainability of our town centre, a trend that has been further worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Chesterfield Borough Council recognises the need to invest now to make sure Chesterfield town centre remains modern, vibrant, and relevant.

“As the heart and soul of our town centre, we must do all we can to make sure that Chesterfield Market continues to prosper in the modern world, as a destination of choice for traders, residents, and visitors.

“The council’s ambitious plans lay down a new vision for Chesterfield Market and have been drawn up following a first round of consultation with local market traders, town centre businesses and residents.

Key proposals include:

  • The re-siting of market stalls currently located in New Square and on Low Pavement into a single market ground of 100 stalls in Market Square – creating a more defined and vibrant market area. The area will also include a flexible events space.
  • The re-modelling of New Square as a flexible events space – able to hold large-scale events, and accommodate temporary installations and active edges linked to local bars and restaurants
  • Upgrades to the paving to improve the quality while also making it more accessible for people dependent on wheelchairs, pushchairs, or mobility aids
  • The introduction of new seating areas and attractive landscaping to create spaces where people want to sit and chat whilst taking in what the town has to offer
  • The planting of more trees to increase biodiversity and improve the street scene
  • Brighter, more vibrant stall coverings and flexible stalls supplied with water, better lighting and digital connectivity

The proposals have also been developed with due regard for the Conservation Area including giving greater prominence to the Market Hall and the town pump, which is currently obscured, by opening-up the public space in these areas.

If approved, the proposals will be subject to a consultation period running from 2 August to 12 September 2021.

Councillor Sarvent added: “Many elements of the draft Vision Master Plan reflect what market traders, town centre businesses and residents have already told us they want to see from a revamped Chesterfield Market.

“If approved, the draft Vision Master Plan will be subject to further consultation. I would therefore encourage as many people as possible to take a look and have their say on the future of Chesterfield town centre and in particular, the key proposals for our treasured market grounds.”

The council has already secured £1.15m funding through the Derbyshire Business Rates Pilot and D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership. Further funding for later phases is being sought as part of a bid that the council has recently submitted to the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

Due to the ongoing uncertainty created by the Covid-19 pandemic, the second phase of consultation will be carried out via a virtual exhibition.

Exhibition documents will also be available to view at Chesterfield Market Hall and interested parties will also be able to obtain paper copies of the questionnaire from the council’s Customer Services Centre, just off New Square.

Discover more about development and regeneration projects taking place across Chesterfield.

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

New festival aims to build on town’s recent plastic-free accolade

Chesterfield campaign group, Plastic Free Chesterfield, is aiming to build on their recent Plastic Free Community award by organising a Plastic Free Festival, taking place on Sunday 8th August, 10am-5pm on New Square at Chesterfield market.

Organisers say the Plastic Free Festival aims to be the one-stop place to help people to reduce their single-use plastics. At the event, festival-goers can enjoy a plastic-free marketplace with stallholders selling products that encourage a plastic-free lifestyle, with businesses such as the award-winning Steph’s Sustainable Stuff, Elsie Moss Botanical, Astra Designs UK and Smarties Fruit & Veg.

Alongside the stalls will be craft recycling and upcycling workshops provided by local crafters. And to provide a festival-feel, there’ll be live music and dance performances along with food and drink courtesy of local Plastic Free Champion business, El Cafe Verde.

Special guest performances on the day include Nick Toczec, Yorkshire poet and entertainer, as well as the Chesterfield Garland Dancers. Local budding poets are being asked to take part in a Plastic Free Poetry competition, with winners performing at the festival itself.

So that the event can live up to its name, attendees will be encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, cups, coffee mugs and containers. And two Crooked Spire branded festival cups (a reusable coffee cup and a half pint cup), sponsored by local Chesterfield businesses, will be available either to loan or buy at the event.

 

The festival is sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council, with over £700 of funding for the event coming from the council’s Community Infrastructure Levy grant scheme.

Greg Hewitt, Plastic Free Chesterfield Community Lead said: “The Plastic Free Festival will be a really great opportunity to show off the fantastic work that the Chesterfield community have achieved so far to reduce their single-use plastics, celebrating our recent Plastic Free Community accreditation. The festival is the first of its kind in the area and aims to help the public to discover some fantastic local independent businesses, of which all are reducing their plastic footprint.”

“We are delighted that not only has Chesterfield Borough Council given us some funding to be able to run the event, they’ve also given us permission to hold the festival on New Square on Chesterfield market. It will be a great family fun day out.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re proud to be funding the Plastic Free Festival, by working together with the community we can make real changes that will help improve the local environment and help us all reduce our carbon footprint.”

“The festival is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to understand how they can lead a plastic-free lifestyle. But it is also an important celebration of the businesses and organisations that have helped our town become an accredited Plastic Free Community.”

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Derbyshire Institute of Sport helps to produce nine athletes for Tokyo Olympics

A total of nine athletes, who have previously been supported by Derbyshire Institute of Sport, have now booked their places to Tokyo this summer.

Jess Turner sealed her place at the Olympics after winning Gold at the Muller British Championships in the 400m hurdles. She had previously achieved the Olympic qualifying time more than once this year, so when she won at the weekend with a stadium record time of 54.83 she automatically qualified for the Tokyo Olympics.

Jess said: “My dream since I was a little girl has come true!”

Para-badminton champion Jack Shephard will make history as one of the first two badminton athletes to ever represent Team GB in the Paralympics.

DIS performance consultant and former national badminton coach Andy Wood explained: “Para-badminton is being included for the first time at Tokyo 2020 and it has always been Jack’s aim to represent his country and win Gold. I am delighted for him that he has this opportunity.”

Andy has led national badminton teams through five Olympic cycles.

Chesterfield’s Liam Pitchford will compete at his third Olympics at the age of just 27. He competed in the table tennis team events at both the London 2012 Olympic Games and the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. In 2016, he helped Team GB to reach the quarter-finals where they were defeated by the Chinese team who ultimately took Gold. Liam also competed in the singles in Rio, reaching the last 32.

Six other former DIS athletes had previously been announced as Olympians. They are swimmers Jacob Whittle, Molly Renshaw, Sarah Vasey and Abbie Wood and marathon runners Jessica Piasecki and Ben Connor.

DIS managing director Chloe Maudsley said: “The good news just keeps coming for athletes who worked with us. Our aim when we set up DIS after the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games was to increase the number of Derbyshire-based world-class athletes. We hit our initial target of creating and supporting 20 world-class athletes by 2020 and that success has now been crowned by the nine athletes going to Tokyo this summer. We can’t wait to cheer them on.

“I’d also like to thank the businesses who sponsor DIS and its athletes through our Thrive Programme. Their support makes it possible for us to help talented athletes become world champions.”

To find out more, ring Chloe on 07974 231564 or email her at info@derbyshireis.co.uk

DIS supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Champions welcome the lifting of Covid restrictions

Chesterfield Champions have welcomed the lifting of Covid restrictions, although some with a note of caution, following Monday’s announcement that, subject to a final review of the data, legal restrictions will end on Monday 19 July.

The lifting of the remaining lockdown restrictions is expected to further boost the local economy. Most recently East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) Quarterly Economic Survey for Q2 2021, State of the Economy Index showed its highest score since Q3 2018. The score has replaced hopes for a steady recovery post pandemic to big growth expectations for the region.

Cllr Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centre and visitor economy, said: “Like town centres up and down the country, it’s been an incredibly difficult time for our businesses – as well as the wider community. But Chesterfield is a resilient place and we have some truly inspiring independent businesses. By continuing to work really closely together, and with our partners like East Midlands Chamber and Destination Chesterfield, we’re confident in our town’s ability to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic.”

Cllr Kate Sarvent

Dom Stevens, Manager of Destination Chesterfield added: “It’s been a long hard road for many Chesterfield Champions, but light is finally at the end of the tunnel. What we have seen during this time is what a tightly knit, resilient and supportive business community there is in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire and I am very much looking forward to seeing people within it face-to-face at our events going forward.”

Dom Stevens

Destination Chesterfield is hosting its first in-person event in 16 months on Wednesday 7 July, when it hosts the judging for the Food Producer of the Year award at Casa Hotel for the 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards.

Venues, including hotels, theatres and training providers, have particularly welcomed the lifting of restrictions which will enable them to return to full capacity 16 months after the pandemic started.

John Croot, Chief Executive at Chesterfield FC is looking forward to the team’s ground once again being full. He said: “We are delighted to hear that the restrictions will be lifted. People have been waiting for this news for so long.

“We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to the Technique Stadium. We have a number of events in our hospitality lounges over the next few months and it will be great to see the rooms full again.”

John Croot, Photographer Gray Hughes

Lotty Hawkins, Assistant Manager at Matlock Farm Park echoed John saying: “We‘re looking forward to seeing the children’s delight when they first go the play centre – it’s going to be lovely having the building filled with children’s voices again.”

Lotty Hawkins

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles commented: “While the hospitality industry is enjoying a great summer bounce back, it has still been severely held back by capacity limits that have also affected the leisure and events industries.

“So there will now be a lot of excitement in the countdown to 19 July, when we sincerely hope the Government will indeed go ahead with stage four of its roadmap to reopening our economy and lift almost all the remaining restrictions.”

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

Fiaz Sadiq, Managing Director for ActionCOACH Chesterfield: “It’s great to hear from the Prime Minister that the easing of restrictions will be lifted from Monday 19 July, it’s a very positive and welcomed decision that we feel everyone was hoping for! Particularly, small independent businesses, as we’ve seen first-hand the devastating effects that this pandemic has caused, and the real struggle for so many!”

Fiaz Sadiq

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care is amongst the raft of businesses that have been impacted by the restrictions. Dawn Brown, owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care explained: “The lifting of the restrictions will enable me now to hold an open day to showcase our services to new and old clients.  We look after people’s fur babies and not being able to show them around has limited the number of new clients sending their dogs to us.  Luckily our reputation has been enough for most clients to send their pooch without looking around but it will be great when we can organise viewings again.”

Suppliers and service providers to the hospitality sector are equally excited to see the lifting of restrictions. John Smith, Director at Accountancy Recruitment Group, said: “Our market has been very busy throughout the pandemic but the changes from the 19 July should, in particular, see a positive bounce-back for our clients across hospitality and leisure sectors.”

Chris Sellars, Chief Executive of bridge finance company Bridge Help agreed saying: “I believe we will see increased investment in commercial property, particularly in the hospitality sector, across the country and locally which is great news for the town.”

Chris Sellars

While the lifting of restrictions has generally been welcomed, a number of businesses, particularly those in the healthcare, beauty and retail sectors in the town centre, have advised caution and requested that customers continue to wear masks if they feel unwell.

Martin Wallis-Keyworth- Owner, Less than Zero Barbers said: “We think it’s now appropriate for people to get back to their day to day lives without compulsory restrictions or mask wearing. It will be good practise though, when people are unwell, to wear a mask wherever possible to limit any risk to themselves and others.”

Martin Wallis-Keyworth

Theresa Goldsmith, owner of The Goldsmith Clinic and a registered nurse agreed saying: “Throughout covid restrictions we have all practiced very safely and will maintain the high level of cleanliness to help prevent any risk of virus transmission – Covid or otherwise.  I hope that people will continue to use their judgement and if they have any sign of any infection, they take the necessary precautions.”

The Goldsmith Clinic

Stuart Chambers, part of the management team at Pavements Shopping Centre: “I hope that people will realise they have responsibility towards others as well as themselves. I will continue with the mask and hand sanitising because it makes sense.”

Lotty added: “I think that most people will still exercise some caution as Covid-19 clearly remains a big issue. However, our visitors have always exercised personal responsibility and we hope that courtesy for others will continue. The advantage of visiting Matlock Farm Park is that we provide such a large outdoor area where people can maintain distance from others.”

Despite some nervousness remaining about Covid, many businesses who have adopted homeworking during the pandemic are looking forward to a return to the workplace for both staff and customers.

Scott Knowles added: “Dropping homeworking guidance for office-based businesses is another important step in our return to normality. While we expect the future of work to be a hybrid between the office and home where this is possible for some, the majority of businesses we represent have told us the office will remain a key part of their organisations – especially for younger employees who benefit from working alongside more senior colleagues and have perhaps felt more socially isolated during the pandemic.”

Lisa Stones, Director, Mortgage 1st said: “The one thing we are looking forward to the most is being able to get together as a team. We have advisers all over the county and have missed spending time together both for business and pleasure. We have a party planned later this month for the whole team so we can celebrate and raise a glass to everyone’s hard work and dedication over the last year and a half.”

Lisa Stones

Kerry Bentley, Managing Director at DBC Training added: “Our delivery centres re-opened to learners in March with appropriate social distancing and covid-secure measures in place, however, many of our learners have continued to engage in online and remote learning. As restrictions are lifted, we hope to see an increase in public confidence in attending classroom-based learning and we are looking forward to welcoming more people into our Chesterfield delivery centre.”

Kerry Bentley

Despite some trepidation about restrictions being eased, businesses are optimistic for what the future holds for both them and the town.

Fiaz Sadiq added: “Now that restrictions are lifting, owners can really start to work on the plans they had for the future of their business, which will in turn will help with the regrowth of this thriving and beautiful little market town, and we can’t wait to see how it bounces back.”

Laura Jo Owen, Owner of Adorn Jewellers said: “We’re looking forward to weddings going ahead. Many of our wedding ring customers have had to postpone their celebrations and are excited to celebrate with friends and family later this year. Coupled with the lockdown proposals, it’s set to be a great year for weddings and we’re so looking forward to meeting more couples and creating their dream wedding rings.

“Lockdown hasn’t dulled our sparkle and now we’re looking forward to shining brightly with our lovely family, friends and customers in Chesterfield.”

Adorn Jewellers

Adorn Jewellers

Cllr Sarvent added: “The borough as a whole is benefitting from a £1bn growth programme which is bringing forward new jobs and opportunities for local people. Likewise, our town centre is not standing still. We’re investing in significant town centre developments and improvements including the new Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, work on Elder Way and plans to revitalise the market.

“Enquiries from businesses wanting to start, grow or relocate in Chesterfield are on the rise, and early indications show that the number of people shopping in Chesterfield town centre is heading in the right direction, moving back towards pre-Covid levels.

“Since the start of the pandemic we’ve paid out over £48.5m worth of Government grants – a lifeline to our businesses. We’re fully behind our town centre and high streets and continue to have a range of support packages in place to help them get back on their feet, as we move beyond Covid-19 restrictions.

“The council has funded the new Digital High Street project which is helping businesses branch out online, our Love Chesterfield campaign is encouraging people to shop local and has a range of free marketing resources for our independents to use. We also have a dedicated town centre engagement officer who provides advice and support. In addition, this summer we’ve launched a new-look events programme, including our popular specialist markets and at our fantastic arts and leisure venues, all of which are encouraging people back into our town centre, safely.”

There are more than 180 Chesterfield Champions, a network of businesses, charities, schools and training providers who are driving the development of the local economy, shaping its future and showcasing all that is good about the area.

To become a member of the Chesterfield Champions scheme, please visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/sign-up/

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Chesterfield school pupils create artwork for highly anticipated Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Pupils at a Chesterfield school have created an artwork for display in the new Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre that celebrates the history of the site.

The year five and six pupils from Abercrombie Primary School visited the site on Monday (5 July) where they presented their artwork to representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council, Robert Woodhead Ltd and Whittam Cox Architects.

Whilst visiting the site the pupils also got to learn more about how the building has been constructed and the different types of jobs involved in the process.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It was fantastic to receive this artwork for our new enterprise centre and it will be proudly displayed in one of the meeting rooms. I want to thank all the children for their incredible effort in creating this piece of art.

“This project has also been a positive opportunity for the young people to learn more about construction industry and introduce them to the possibility of a future career in this sector. I hope they all had an enjoyable visit and learned more about the building.”

As part of the council’s planning permission the development is subject to a Local Labour Clause which has created 135 local jobs, three apprenticeships and generated over £1.7m of contracts across the local supply chain. It also commits the contractor to supporting skills development and both Robert Woodhead Group and Whittam Cox Architects have engaged in this through initiatives such as My Future, Women in Construction Mentoring Programme, virtual workplace tours and this project.

Matt Bust, of contractors Robert Woodhead Ltd said: “We are so pleased to have been able to work with Abercrombie Primary School. I would like to thank the students for their creative efforts to produce such a great piece of artwork. I am looking forward to seeing it in the new Enterprise Centre.”

Andy Dabbs, Board Director at Whittam Cox Architects and Chair of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Forum commented: “It is wonderful to be engaged on such projects where corporate and social responsibility goes beyond words and is evidenced through our actions. Now more than ever our industry needs to work harder together to support developing an accessible platform for the next generation and when you see the quality of work produced by Abercrombie Primary School why would you not want to capture that talent!

“The Chesterfield Construction and Property Group was established with a clear purpose to support our local community, through collaboration and engagement, and if anyone from the sector would like to get involved, please do get in touch.”

The pupils were asked to create the artwork by Chesterfield Borough Council, Robert Woodhead Ltd and Whittam Cox Architects earlier this year. They were given some information about the history of the site to help inspire them to create this work. It will be displayed in one of the meeting rooms in the new centre.

The new Enterprise Centre will include 32 high quality office suites in a range of sizes (26 to 120 square metres) and state of the art meeting facilities. It will have 24/7 access, an IT fibre connection which offers maximum speed multi bandwidth capability, Wi-Fi and air conditioning throughout. With its town centre location, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is easily accessible by car, train, bus and cycle users.

Together these features will ensure it appeals to any company looking to become established in Chesterfield.

The project builds on the success of the council’s Dunston and Tapton Innovation Centres which for many years have offered excellent support and accommodation to innovative and growing businesses.

The centre is well connected in a town centre location and is classed as ‘grade A’ office accommodation – a mark of the highest quality. Prospective tenants can find out more on the Enterprise Centre webpage, by emailing economic.development@chesterfield.gov.uk, or by calling 01246 345255.

For property and construction professionals who wish to find out more about getting involved with the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, please email PropertyGroup@chesterfield.co.uk or visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/propertygroup/

 

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

“I am reminded of how lucky we are in Chesterfield to live in such beautiful surroundings.”

Destination Chesterfield Chairman Peter Swallow has shared his optimism for the future across Chesterfield in his latest blog.

Following the easing of restrictions on the hospitality sector in May, it has been a pleasure to be able once again to sample our wonderful restaurants and cafes. This is not just because of the record rainfall we experienced, followed by the recent very welcome sunshine – but because it’s given me a real sense that the end of the pandemic is in sight.

As summer is here, I am reminded of how lucky we are in Chesterfield to live in such beautiful surroundings. We have a wealth of picturesque places to visit, right here on our doorstep. It’s a great place to live and an excellent base for UK staycations.

By way of example, we have Chatsworth with its stunning grounds and gardens and also the glorious Peak District – which is celebrating 70 years since becoming the UK’s first national park, both offering a host of summer activities for us all to get involved in. Our very own Chesterfield Museum has re-opened after 14 months and is looking forward to welcoming visitors old and new.

It’s also been refreshing to see the weekly open air markets back in the town centre as well as the monthly Artisan market. They too send out a re-affirming message that we are well on the way to normal service resuming in our lives – 19 July permitting.

Continuing the positive theme, I am delighted to report that, despite the constraints of the pandemic, significant progress has been made at each of Chesterfield’s key building developments.

Tenants have been confirmed for some of the floorspace in the new office building under construction at Chesterfield Waterside. BHP Chartered Accountants will be making the move to One Waterside Place shortly after its completion later this year. In addition, the first residents have taken occupation in the new housing being developed by Avant Homes in the ‘Waterside Quarter’ area of the project.

The Glass Yard on Sheffield Road is also on schedule for completion shortly. The offices and meeting spaces have been designed sustainably and ergonomically and will incorporate The Batch House – an artisan food and drink hall. A place to work, eat and meet.

Work at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in the heart of the town, continues at great pace, with the plastering works now complete. This too is also on track for completion and will welcome tenants in the summer.

With the demand for regional satellite offices growing since the pandemic, Chesterfield not only has a great supply of high specification, flexible office space but we also offer a cost effective and central location. Once again Chesterfield is ahead of the curve.

With the prospect of HS2 enabling travel from Chesterfield to London in just 73 mins, these are very exciting times for us as a town as we look to attract investment from large companies looking to establish regional offices.

We will continue to benefit and grow as a result of the Waterside Place, Glass Yard and Enterprise Centre developments as we welcome the many new businesses who will soon be making Chesterfield their address of choice.

Just 16 months ago, Chesterfield like the rest of the country and, indeed the world, wondered what the future held amidst the pandemic. Today, we can confidently say the future is very bright for the town thanks to the overall economic strategy and putting in place the tools to facilitate delivery.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Derbyshire economy bounces back strongly, East Midlands Chamber survey finds

Confidence among Derbyshire businesses is continuing to make a strong comeback as the economy reopens – hitting heights not witnessed for almost three years, according to new research by East Midlands Chamber.

The latest Quarterly Economic Survey for Q2 2021 by the region’s leading business representation group shows recruitment, sales and investment all increased significantly as the Government roadmap out of lockdown progressed.

Its State of the Economy Index – a measure of the region’s economic health compiled by aggregating various indicators – reached its highest level since Q3 2018 as the steady recovery was replaced with big growth expectations.

More than 400 businesses across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire took part in the survey between 17 May and 8 June.

Key findings from the survey for Derbyshire included:

• UK sales increased for a net 35% of businesses, while advanced orders were up for a net 31%
• Overseas sales rose for a net 3% of respondents and overseas orders increased for a net 2%
• A net 17% of organisations increased their labour force in the previous three months, while a net 44% expect to grow it over the next three months (only 3% expecting it to reduce)
• There was finally some positive news regarding cashflow, which had decreased for the majority of firms during each of the previous five quarters, with a net 6% reporting it to have improved
• Investment intentions are rising, with a net 32% expecting to spend on machinery and equipment while a net 28% predict they will invest in training
• A net 63% of businesses are confident their turnover will improve over the coming quarter, while a net 33% believe profitability will increase too

Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs at East Midlands Chamber, said: “Building on the recovery seen in Q1 2021, growth across Derbyshire – both in terms of activity and sentiment – continued to strengthen as the Government roadmap for re-opening progressed across the past three months.

“Domestic markets performed particularly strongly for both sales and orders, while overseas markets were stronger for advanced orders than in-quarter sales.

“Employment has also increased and looks set to continue growing with positive recruitment intentions. Encouragingly, following a year of cashflow deterioration, as more businesses have been allowed to open and confidence has grown, access to cash has also improved for the majority of firms.

“While there remain certain sectors for whom the roadmap has been slower to reach them and are still in need of support, the overall picture is one of strong growth and strong prospects for future demand and activity.”

Despite the positive trajectory for most key economic indicators, there were signs of potential growing pains ahead.

Six in 10 respondents attempted to recruit in the second quarter and, of those 62% struggled to fill roles. These difficulties were particularly acute for skilled and professional jobs, but also present across less skilled roles.
As workforces increase, half of businesses reported difficulties in finding the skills they need – versus 42% that were confident of doing so.

Pressures on pricing may be the biggest issue to watch, with a net 49% anticipating increases in their prices over the coming quarter. The biggest pressure is coming from raw material prices (60%), particularly for manufacturers, but it is also coming from other overheads (42%), including energy costs and staff pay.

Chris added: “Although the headline figures are clearly positive, it’s not all plain sailing for businesses.

“At the same time, problems associated with growth are immeasurably preferable to those associated with decline, and businesses overall will be encouraged with where the economy currently is, particularly given where we were six months ago.”

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