Destination Chesterfield

Several Chesterfield Champions named as finalists for Derbyshire Business Awards

A number of Chesterfield Champion businesses have been listed amongst the finalists for the prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards, hosted by East Midlands Chamber.

The Champions included in the list of nominations include Global Brands Ltd, SDE Group, Shed Grounds Maintenance, Dalton Roofing, KranLee Logistics, DBC Training, EcoTech Engineers and Geeks Headquarters.

Finalists were revealed at the President’s Summer Celebration on 21st August. Finalists were selected by a panel of judges made of sponsors and senior management at East Midlands Chamber.

East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins said: “When I look at the people and organisations that have entered or been fortunate enough to become finalists for this year’s East Midlands Business Awards I’m blown away by the calibre and talent. The quality of entries was exceptionally high and I’m sure the judging panels had some tough decisions to make as the shortlist was compiled.

“To host today’s Summer Celebration was a proud moment; it’s been wonderful to see so many influential and inspirational people in one place. The East Midlands business community is strong and when I see so many leaders, rising talent, apprentices, and innovative people all in one place, I’m reminded why the region is a Centre of Trading Excellence. While announcing the finalists is exciting, it’s the sharing of ideas that means everyone at an event like this gains.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the finalists that were revealed today at the Business Awards which are not too far away now. Even if not a finalist, the opportunity to be among so many businesses and to converse with them is really worthwhile so for anyone that hasn’t yet booked to attend, I’d urge them to do so.”

Nick Catt, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It is fantastic to see so many of our Chesterfield Champions nominated as finalists in these prestigious awards.

“The East Midlands Chamber business awards showcase the best companies across our region, and to see so many fantastic companies growing and thriving in our town is very pleasing.

“Congratulations to all businesses nominated, and we wish you the best of luck at the Awards on the 25th October.”

chamber business awards 2023 rose cottage

Business Improvement Through Technology

  • DevTank
  • Defib4Life
  • Global Brands Ltd

Community Impact Award

  • SPATIAL Careers Service
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • E Safety Training
  • Derby Theatre
  • AtkinsRéalis

Outstanding Growth Award

  • Longbow Venues
  • Alphageek
  • Enicor
  • SDE Group
  • Valve & Process Solutions

Excellence in Collaboration

  • TecInteractive | Blueprint Interiors
  • Derby Theatre | Derby City Council Volute |
  • Tomato Energy | Cleeve School & Sixth Form
  • Railston & Company | GEV Wind Power

Environmental Impact Award

  • Shed Grounds Maintenance
  • DevTank Ltd
  • Cosy Direct
  • Purpose Media
  • Tomato Energy

Commitment to People Development Award

  • Dalton Roofing
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Pennine Healthcare
  • Sky Recruitment Solutions
  • Longbow Venues

Education and Business Partnership Award

  • DBC Training
  • University of Derby | Rolls Royce Submarines
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • Hardy Signs
  • Derby Theatre | Saint Ralph Sherwin Trust

Apprentice of the Year

  • Jessica Mitchell, EMA Training
  • Amber Whitby, Pentaxia
  • Sarah Illsley, Pentaxia
  • Amie-Jayne Knight, Sky Recruitment Solutions

Entrepreneur of the Year

  • Rob Hattersley, Longbow Venues
  • Elaine Penhaul, Lemon & Lime Interiors
  • Laura Holland, EcoTech Engineers
  • Katy Upton, Fortitude Nicsa

Excellence in Customer Service

  • Anoki
  • Longbow Venues
  • Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport
  • KJB Toolhire
  • Ascentant Accountancy

Excellence in International Trade

  • Global Brands
  • Valve & Process Solutions
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Altek Europe

Small Business of the Year

  • Thompson Tree Services
  • Geeks Headquarters
  • Bluebell Dairy
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Astute Recruitment

Excellence in Innovation

  • Gordon Ellis & Co
  • Brilliant Ideas
  • Tomato Energy

Business of the Year

  • To be announced at the award ceremonies
Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Destination Chesterfield welcomes eight new board members

Destination Chesterfield has announced the recruitment of eight new board members to strengthen the promotion of Derbyshire’s largest town.

The Destination Chesterfield Board is made up of local businesspeople who volunteer their time to influence the strategic direction of place-making and place marketing for Chesterfield.

Since being founded by Chesterfield Borough Council and local businesses in 2010, Destination Chesterfield has showcased the town as a contemporary destination to work, live, visit and invest.

The partnership works alongside a community of more than 230 businesses, known as Chesterfield Champions, to achieve this.  Board members are representatives from their Chesterfield Champion Companies.

Joining the Destination Chesterfield board are:

  • Ann Fomukong-Boden, Owner, Kakou CIC
  • Andrew Dabbs, Director, Whittam Cox Architects
  • Nick Hogan, Owner, Chesterfield Escape Rooms
  • Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP LLP
  • Ryan Wilkes, Director of Owner Managed Business, Shorts Chartered Accountants
  • James Borkoles, Head of Business Development, University of Derby
  • Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director, Devonshire Group
  • Nick Catt, Managing Director, Weightron Bilanciai

As the new board members begin their voluntary roles, the Chair of Destination Chesterfield, Peter Swallow has announced that he is stepping down from his position after 14 years of service.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Vice Chair and Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, will lead the board while a new chair is elected.

Peter commented: “It is fantastic to be signing off my chairmanship by welcoming eight new board members, who will all be helping to guide the future marketing and economic growth of Chesterfield.

“One of Chesterfield’s great strengths is the collaborative nature of its business community, and this is reflected in the broad range of sectors represented on the board. The new members all have a vast amount of knowledge and expertise when it comes to the needs of our businesses and communities.”

“As I come to the end of my service as Chair of this successful partnership, I would like to wish Destination Chesterfield and all organisations across our town success in bringing further growth and regeneration, fulfilling Chesterfield’s ambition to be a fantastic location to live, work, visit and invest.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby said: “On behalf of the Destination Chesterfield Board, I would like to thank Peter Swallow for his years of dedicated service to the town. I am looking forward to working with all new and existing members of the Destination Chesterfield board to continue building on the progress made by the partnership over recent years. Not only does Destination Chesterfield raise the profile of our town, it also acts as a vital private sector voice for the area, ensuring that our businesses are heard.”

Meet the new board members

Andrew Dabbs, Director, Whittam Cox Architects

“I’ve lived locally my entire life, and being part of a thriving business in Chesterfield is something I’m very proud of. I’m excited to be part of the Destination Chesterfield board, with my role going hand-in-hand with my existing involvement in the town’s Property and Construction Group. Being part of the board gives me a great opportunity to represent our sector and the communities we ultimately serve through our work. There is so much talent and quality in our region and I’m delighted to be working with colleagues to showcase it.”

Nick Hogan, Owner, Chesterfield Escape Rooms

“I genuinely feel honoured and privileged to be able to join such an experienced team, all with the intention of making our hometown a better to live, work, invest and visit. Everyone on the board has got something a little different to offer and specialise in. During the selection process, I focussed on my expertise of recently opening a business in the town centre. I firmly believe Chesterfield can buck the national trend and would love to engage with anyone thinking about opening a business in town. It only takes a few great businesses to open to create a snowball effect.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Owner, Kakou CIC

“I am deeply honoured to join the Destination Chesterfield board and play a greater part in supporting Chesterfield’s vibrant community. This role presents an incredible opportunity to contribute to the growth and well-being of our Town.

“My main aims and aspirations for this role are centred around fostering strong collaborative connections and partnerships within the Town’s diverse corporate, third sector and community organisations; in addition to shining a light on the creativity, innovation and heritage that define our unique Town.”

Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP LLP

Dominic Staniforth BHP

“Chesterfield is a town full of driven and passionate people who share a common purpose to make it an excellent place to live, work, invest and study. I am honoured to be joining the Destination Chesterfield board, which brings together leaders from our business community and the public sector to guide the strategic promotion of the town.

“This position will sit alongside my other exciting new role as Chair of the new Chesterfield Town Board, which will oversee the spending of almost £20m from the government to bring more positive change to our town.”

Ryan Wilkes, Director of Owner Managed Business, Shorts Chartered Accountants

“I am very grateful and honoured to be selected to represent Chesterfield, where I have called home all my life. I am keen to build on my knowledge of the area, to help provide support and showcase both emerging and established businesses in Chesterfield, as well as the town as a whole.

“I have a unique insight into the thriving businesses around the area through my role at Shorts, which I would like to share and shout about to attract new business to Chesterfield and show what a great town it is. Talent attraction and retention are also big areas I would like to focus on. We have a great business community here, and we need to continue building talent to help grow our organisations. I want to help show the rest of the UK what Chesterfield has to offer, and to show the people and businesses of Chesterfield why they should stay!”

James Borkoles, Head of Business Development, University of Derby

“I’m very excited to be joining the Destination Chesterfield board at this critical time – the pace of change is relentless and there are significant opportunities to set our sights high in terms of developing Chesterfield as a first choice place for businesses to start, develop and thrive.

“My involvement, and that of the University of Derby, is to ensure that businesses are given the best support possible to establish themselves, grow and evolve to meet the challenges in the short and long term. This might be through skills provision, apprenticeships and securing talent to grow your business, or it might come through innovative, applied research and consultancy.”

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director, Devonshire Group

“I’m delighted to be joining the Destination Chesterfield Board. The Devonshire Group has a long-standing relationship with Chesterfield and through our property development activity we are actively investing into the area.

“Working with the Council and Chesterfield College we have partnered in the delivery of the Construction Skills Hub on our housing scheme at Mastin Moor.  Having a skilled workforce is key to the area’s success and I hope to continue to help shape and deliver those skills, to ensure Chesterfield remains a great place in which to invest.”

Nick Catt, Managing Director, Weightron Bilanciai

Man smiling at camera wearing blue formal jacket

“I’m enthused and excited to become part of the Destination Chesterfield board. I love working in the town because of our central location with great access to the motorway network, businesses can find good employees who benefit from a great work/life balance.

“I’m particularly looking forward to the redevelopment of the town centre and market square. I would like to see our town further develop its nighttime culture, with more places for people to go and enjoy, encouraging more visitors to our area.”

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A Real Balance Between Work and Play: Why Professionals Are Choosing Chesterfield

Business leaders in Chesterfield have shared their thoughts on why they’ve chosen the town as a destination to build their livelihoods. Speaking at the recent Destination Chesterfield roundtable, held in conjunction with the Derbyshire Times, business owners and employees praised the work-life balance offered in the town, alongside its central location and access to opportunities.

Situated near the Peak District National Park, Chesterfield residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor activities. The proximity to such natural beauty, coupled with a wealth of green space within the town, contributes to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Jamie Wajs, Owner of Lime Living Estate Agents, believes people are moving to Chesterfield from other areas due to the town’s unique offerings. He said, “We see a lot of people from industry moving into town or returning here because there’s a real balance between work and play.”

Catherine Wenborn, Owner of Vines Legal Ltd, emphasized this point, stating, “There is a very strong family focus here. I have been a relative newcomer to the area, but there are families that go back generations and there’s a very strong community. Chesterfield is very well accessed with transport links which also makes it a nice place to live.”

Catherine previously spent time working in London and compared it to the lifestyle she now enjoys in Chesterfield. She told delegates that the difference is stark: “The whole idea of ‘bright city lights’ in the capital really wasn’t the case at all. Here in Chesterfield, you feel like you’re part of the community. People are friendly and welcoming, even if they do tease me about my southern accent!”

Rebecca Erskine, Owner of Yellow Bird Marketing and Communications, added, “I think it’s the amount of space we have to live our lives as well. If you want to be part of something in the hustle and bustle, you can be, but if you want to be somewhere completely remote, you’re only 15 minutes away. It’s such an area of natural beauty that everything around us is really appealing.”

Chesterfield’s strong sense of community was highlighted by several people during the discussion. Helen Bradshaw, Business Development Director at Learning Curve Group commented, “I moved up here when I was 22, having lived in many towns and cities. I came here on a weekend to visit and then ended up moving up here permanently! I’ve always found Chesterfield to be a very green town, which has a friendly feel and community spirit to it.”

Work Live Round Table

“You feel like everyone is really in the same boat, supporting the same goals. I think people take pride in this town, and so a lot of businesses take pride in what they are bringing to the community.”

A significant draw for many is Chesterfield’s remarkable work-life balance. Its proximity to many other urban centres provides access to opportunities while allowing individuals to retreat to a quieter, more manageable lifestyle. Paul Stuart, Head of Business Support Services for East Midlands Chamber, added, “I think the space available for businesses is good. It’s also things we don’t necessarily think of which add to the quality of life, such as the commute. Our head office is based in Chesterfield, and where I live is just 15 minutes away, and that’s the thing that makes it comfortable for me. I’m not stuck on the motorway or relying on trains.”

Lewis Silcock Business Development Manager at DBC Training said, “There’s quite a lot of greenery, fields, and parks, and you don’t have to get in the car and drive somewhere to take the dog for a walk. We love to go out as a family to the park, and it’s nice to be able to just step out of your door after work. Chesterfield has the right balance between green spaces and business space.”

Jo Down, Assistant Principal for Student Experience and Wellbeing at Chesterfield College, shared her perspective: “I believe as someone born and raised in the town, we can often take things for granted. I love to walk and run down the canal, and we have lots of nice cafes and eateries to socialise. There’s a lot of regeneration happening in the town too, especially in the town centre, and I really think that will contribute to the offer further.”

Chesterfield’s central location in the UK makes it an ideal hub for connectivity and accessibility. With cities like Sheffield and Nottingham nearby, and Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds within easy reach by road and rail, there is plenty of opportunity to make connections and grow a business. Catherine Wenborn added, “Coming from Kent, most of the big work was in London because there weren’t any other cities. Here, you’ve got various cities dotted about, which has made such a difference.”

Rebecca Erskine elaborated on the community aspect, “I go to different events, and you often bump into people who you work together with. It’s a great place to make personal connections with people, which in turn helps to strengthen your business.”

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield is a location where people are able to thrive both personally and professionally. Find out more about living and working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

Mum, Dad and child in kitchen smiling

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Leaders call for improved rail services across the East Midlands

Leaders across the East Midlands region have come together to call for a long-term plan for improving regional rail services.

It follows a report from Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM) that shines a spotlight on the opportunity to improve rail travel across the area.

The report, titled “A Platform for Growth”, highlights the need to develop a more competitive rail offer in the East Midlands, improve performance standards, and for an East Midlands voice within the new Great British Railways.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Chesterfield Railway Station is one of the busiest in the East Midlands and of vital importance to unlocking the economic potential of our borough and the wider economies of north Derbyshire and the Peak District.

“We need our train services to be catalysts for growth bringing more and better jobs to our economies, stimulating inward investment, enabling social mobility and introducing new audiences to the area’s visitor attractions.

“To achieve this, there needs to be investment in our stations, better quality trains, more frequent and reliable services, and fare structures that encourage people to leave their cars at home.”

Sir Peter Soulsby, Chair of TfEM, said: “Our evidence suggests that regional rail services in the East Midlands are directly worth around £356 million per year to our regional economy. We have major population growth forecast and exciting local plans for many more new jobs and homes.

“Due to years of underinvestment, the East Midlands rail network is sparse and infrequent compared to other regions. This inevitably impacts on punctuality and the ability to run the level of services the region requires.

“Around 75% of stations in the East Midlands are served by just one train per hour or fewer, with even lower levels of service levels on Sundays and increasingly overcrowded trains on Saturdays.

“But it doesn’t have to be this way.

“We need to see a new clear plan for growth for this region in terms of both services and performance. The rail industry cannot ‘cut itself’ to financial sustainability – it must grow patronage to survive, and the East Midlands is a great place to start!”

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “Rail is proudly embedded in the culture of our region, yet there is so much more room for improvement when it comes to infrastructure and regional services in the East Midlands.

“Our regional rail network doesn’t yet match the ambition of our towns and cities. Commuters, local communities and business can see what rail investment has done elsewhere and rightly expect the same standards here.

“If we’re going to reduce the number of car journeys and meet our climate goals, we need to boost sustainable travel by investing in our rail network and making sure commuters are getting a fair deal. If we get this right, we could unlock tens of millions of pounds of direct economic benefits.”

Will Rogers, Managing Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “Although our regional fleet is undergoing a major £28.2 million refurbishment, the East Midlands transport spend per head has been significantly below the UK average level for all of the last 25 years.

“We are keen to work in partnership with Transport for the East Midlands, our mayors and other stakeholders to improve this situation. Rail is a key enabler of economic and social value and for our region to compete, grow and meet the ambitions of its citizens, greater investment in rail infrastructure and services is vital.”

Transport for East Midlands leaders call for investment in rail services

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New business centre now open in Chesterfield following major refurbishment

A new business centre comprising several office spaces is now open in the centre of Chesterfield.

York House Business Centre, based on St. Mary’s Gate is situated in the heart of the town, providing an accessible and convenient location for companies looking for quality office space.

Space available ranges from 72 sq ft to 1,211 sq ft, which includes lift access and a communal meeting room. Both floors also contain male, female and disabled WCs, while the ground floor boasts a cafe and communal kitchen, with an outdoor courtyard also available to use.

The property has 24-hour access and benefits from internal and external CCTV. In total, the building has undergone refurbishment thought to be around £800,000.

Emma Gallagher, Director at commercial property agent, Roy Peters Estates, said: “We are delighted to continue our involvement with York House and be part of the next chapter in the life of such a beautiful and historic building.

Office space with white and blue lighting ready for occupation

“A mixed use development such as this promises to bring numerous benefits to the town with the diversity of those occupying the variety of space available. With the affordable rent and flexible terms, it will also encourage those just starting out in business to take that first step.

“We have had strong demand in the Business Centre already with 7 spaces let in the first week and prior to the official opening of the building.”

Andy Dabbs, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Chair of the town’s Property and Construction Group, commented:

“Having the spaces for businesses to grow in Chesterfield is crucial, and the investment at York House will provide the premises businesses need to thrive in the heart of our town.

“Chesterfield is superbly located for businesses, with connections to several major cities within just an hour’s commute via road or rail.

“Furthermore, your organisation will be welcomed by our vibrant and supportive business community, making the town an ideal place to invest.”

Want to find out more about commercial property in Chesterfield? Get in touch with us today at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

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

York House business Centre

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Chesterfield business leaders react to Labour’s general election win

The Chair of Destination Chesterfield and the Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber have both given their views on the general election result.

This morning, it has been confirmed that the Labour Party will govern the country after securing a large majority in the commons.

Reacting to this morning’s news, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to the new Prime Minister, and to all candidates who took part in the election campaign.

“Countless hours of work go into campaigning ahead of a general election, ensuring voters are well informed of each party’s priorities.

“A change in leadership for the country will mean potential new opportunities for Chesterfield, as we look forward to unlocking further investment for our region.

“Recent regeneration projects which have taken place across Chesterfield show that partnership working between the public and private sectors are vital to boosting growth and jobs. Therefore, we are eager to continue this collaboration with the government to put forward Chesterfield’s case for further growth and investment in the future.”

peter swallow speaking at Celebrate

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber also reiterated the fact that government must play its part in unlocking economic growth for the region.

He said: “Business wants the best outcomes that will remove barriers to economic growth in the East Midlands and we look forward to hearing the new Government’s plans as soon as possible.

“Government’s purpose is to create an economic environment that allows businesses to invest, to create and sustain jobs – and then to get out of the way to allow business to thrive. That’s what the business community needs for growth in the East Midlands and we stand ready to advise and hold the new government to account at both national and regional level to ensure that enacting the needs of our region’s businesses is top of the list.

“Business currency is confidence – confidence means growth, investment into people, plant and machinery and digital transformation. Our Manifesto for Growth sets out what businesses in the East Midlands need across the areas of Investment, Innovation, International Trade and Infrastructure. We’ve presented it to Westminster; it’s ready for the new government to get on with and I urge its implementation.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is ideally located to be the base for your business.

Scott Knowles

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

 

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Forge Bakehouse opens tasty new location in Chesterfield town centre

A new bakery and cafe is opening its doors in Chesterfield town centre, offering artisan breads, pastries and more tasty treats.

Sheffield’s Forge Bakehouse is continuing its expansion with the launch of a new location in The Pavements Shopping Centre.

Forge Bakehouse already has shops and cafes in Sheffield’s Abbeydale, Beauchief, Lodge Moor and Dronfield as well as an outlet at the Forum in Sheffield city centre and at Sheffield Station.

Having achieved success in the city, the bakery has invested in a new location here in Chesterfield.

“Having established ourselves successfully in Sheffield, we felt the time was right for expansion and recognised there is demand for our range of products in North East Derbyshire,” said Forge Bakehouse owner Liva Guest.

“The core of our success is the continued use of the finest quality ingredients and a team of fantastic chefs, bakers and baristas.

“Dronfield proved extremely popular with customers as soon as we opened at the Civic Centre and Chesterfield is just as successful.

“Chesterfield is such a vibrant and welcoming traditional shopping centre and our visitors are already enjoying the opportunity to call in at Forge Bakehouse for a break.

“The location we have selected within the Pavements Shopping Centre is convenient and extremely attractive and makes a welcome addition to our portfolio.”

Forge Bakehouse produces an acclaimed range of artisan breads, pastries, sandwiches and savouries at its Abbeydale bakery which are sold through the company’s shops and are also available for weddings, corporate events, markets and meetings.

The cafes have also established a strong reputation for their range of coffees and teas, with a team of experiences baristas making regular innovative additions to their offer.

At the same time, the addition of new savoury lines like the Forge Bakehouse melted cheese croissant has increased the brand’s popularity as both an eat-in and take-out destination.

To find out more about Forge Bakehouse and its full range of products and services visit www.forgebakehouse.co.uk

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, stated: “We are excited to see Forge Bakehouse investing in our town centre. Chesterfield is an excellent location for investment, offering a vibrant community, a deep historical heritage, and great connectivity.

“The town’s blend of modern conveniences and traditional charm creates a perfect environment for businesses to succeed and develop.”

Chesterfield is home to many independent cafes, restaurants and bars serving up a range of cuisines and tasty treats. Find out more about eating out in our town here. 

Exterior of bakery in shopping centre with yellow signage

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

Chesterfield manufacturers encouraged to inspire future talent as businesses celebrate 10 years of innovative scheme

Businesses are gearing up to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the renowned Made in Chesterfield initiative, which brings together schools and local firms to close skills gaps in the town.

Designed to spark interest in manufacturing, engineering, and construction careers among young people, the campaign offers a unique opportunity for businesses in those key sectors to inspire the future workforce.

Destination Chesterfield is seeking companies to participate in this year’s Made in Chesterfield scheme. By engaging with school pupils, your business can offer firsthand insights into the exciting career paths within these crucial sectors.

Celebrating a decade of partnership and collaboration, the Made in Chesterfield campaign will run throughout October 2024.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership, and supported by Chesterfield College Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and NatWest, the campaign has a proven track record of success.

Since 2014, over 3,500 students have explored career opportunities in the area’s manufacturing, engineering, and construction sectors.

Chesterfield College Group, the project’s headline sponsor, has witnessed a surge in students enrolling in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) subjects, underscoring the campaign’s significant impact.

Julie Richards OBE, CEO of Chesterfield College Group, shared: “Supporting Made in Chesterfield aligns with our mission to connect students with employers, providing inspiration and creating opportunities for successful careers. Our Engineering, Manufacturing, and Science Centre and involvement in the town’s new Construction Skills Hub highlight our dedication to providing the best career opportunities for young people in engineering and construction.”

Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “With an ageing workforce creating a skills gap in manufacturing, it’s crucial to cultivate new talent. These tours and interactions give young people invaluable insights into the promising careers in STEM fields.”

Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), added: “We are thrilled to continue supporting Made in Chesterfield, facilitating connections between employers and young people. This initiative provides meaningful experiences, raising awareness of local opportunities and helping employers meet potential future employees.”

Don’t miss this chance to contribute to Chesterfield’s future. Learn more about how your business can get involved with Made in Chesterfield by visiting https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/ or contacting Direct Education Business Partnership at madeinchesterfieldvisits@debp.org.

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Chesterfield College Principal awarded OBE for services to further education

The Principal of Chesterfield College and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Julie Richards has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2024.

Julie Richards has served on the Destination Chesterfield board since she was appointed CEO and Principal of Chesterfield College in 2017.

Upon hearing the news of Julie’s recognition for her services to further education, Chair of the Chesterfield College Group Corporation, Beej Kaczmarczyk said: “This is a tremendous accolade for both Julie and the college, and an acknowledgement of her dedication and contribution to Further Education and our college.”

Reacting to her new title, Julie commented: “I am delighted to receive the OBE in recognition of the incredible impact the Further Education sector has for so many people across the UK, whilst very often it is the forgotten but vital element of our education system.

“First and foremost it is received on behalf of the incredible people I have the privilege to work with every day at Chesterfield College, who work tirelessly to inspire the future and change the lives for so many young people and adults in our community and who inspire me every day.”

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager said: “I’d like to personally wish Julie a huge congratulations on receiving this OBE. Since taking up the role as Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College, Julie’s insight into the education sector has played a key role in shaping the strategic promotion of Chesterfield as a member of the Destination Chesterfield board.

“Her passion and determination to support our town’s young people and provide them with rewarding careers is always evident, and it’s great to see her being recognised with such a prestigious honour.”

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

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We Are Spaces Ltd expands commercial property portfolio with acquisition of high street property

A prominent building in the heart of Chesterfield’s retail centre is set to undergo extensive refurbishment after its acquisition by the Commercial Interior Design and Build company We Are Spaces.

The three-storey property, located alongside the old Marks & Spencer building, spans an impressive 3,355 sq ft and features independent pedestrian access to the upper two floors.

Having acquired the Grade II listed building for an undisclosed sum via auction earlier this year, We Are Spaces is committed to maintaining it as a commercial space with the aim of attracting smaller businesses that can drive footfall and increase spending within the town centre.

The deal was completed with legal advice and support from leading regional law firm Banner Jones’ commercial property team, and the property was purchased through the auction house Mark Jenkinson.

Amy Revell, co-founder and creative director at We Are Spaces, stated: “As a business, we are committed to projects that reinvigorate the high street, particularly those that bring derelict buildings back into commercial use. Having acquired the site earlier this year, we are now in the early stages of the planning process, with refurbishment works expected to start within a few months.”

amy revell wearespaces

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

We Are Spaces, which specialises in commercial transformation and interior design, added that plans to sympathetically refurbish the High Street building will factor in its heritage and history, whilst also incorporating state-of-the-art technology to ensure it meets the latest sustainability and environmental standards.

Ben Couch from Banner Jones’ commercial property team, who advised We Are Spaces on the acquisition, said: “We are delighted to have worked alongside the team at We Are Spaces to support their latest acquisition.

“As a fellow Chesterfield Champion it’s great to have been involved in yet another project that will fundamentally improve the High Street’s commercial offering, benefiting not only local businesses and the local community, but also the local economy.”

Ben Couch, Banner Jones Solicitors

The acquisition bolsters We Are Spaces’ existing portfolio and, upon completion, will complement Chesterfield Council’s ongoing commitment to reinvigorating the high street through its Vitality and Viability of Centres plan, which includes the revitalisation of the town centre and the new Waterside scheme.

Amy Revell added, “We are dedicated to maintaining this unit as a vibrant commercial space that will help drive footfall, attract more out of town visitors, and bolster the local economy by contributing to Chesterfield’s dynamic business environment.”

Banner Jones is a leading law firm in Chesterfield, offering expert legal advice to businesses in commercial property, business acquisitions and mergers, employment, lease agreements, and other services. As Chesterfield Champions, they support local businesses and contribute to community growth.

We Are Spaces and Banner Jones support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Exterior of shop unit in Chesterfield Town Centre

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Destination Chesterfield Chair nominated for regional property award

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow has been nominated for the Property Personality Award at the upcoming Insider South Yorkshire Property Dinner.

The event, taking place on Thursday 11th July at Sheffield City Hall, celebrates the regional construction industry, and highlights some of the key success stories in the sector from across the region.

Peter Swallow has worked in property development since the early 1980s, but also has a passion for regeneration. As co-founder of Bolsterstone, set up 1989, Peter has worked on and delivered a variety of projects, more recently being a driving force behind the successful Chesterfield Waterside Scheme.

Peter has lived in Chesterfield for over 40 years and is proud to have been Chair of Destination Chesterfield for well over 10 years.

He commented: “It is an honour to be nominated for this prestigious award, which also highlights several other dedicated colleagues working across the property and construction sector in the region.

“Seeing the Chesterfield Waterside development come to life over recent years has been a huge milestone for me personally, and for investment in the town. It is great to see the newly constructed One Waterside Place offices now fully occupied and operational, with several brilliant businesses now located there, bringing significant employment to the area.

“Having spent more than a decade as Chair of Destination Chesterfield, one of my main focuses has been to help drive more investment and regeneration in our town, and I’m delighted that is now coming to fruition, and we are seeing developments  move forward at pace.

“I’m very much looking forward to celebrating our region at the upcoming Insider South Yorkshire Property Dinner, and I’m eager to hear more about the big success stories from across the region.”

Representatives from two more Chesterfield Property and Construction Group organisations also made the shortlist, including Lydia Sadler for DLP Planning and Clare Plant for nineteen47.

The Property Personality award is for the person who has had the biggest personal impact on the property sector in the region, with particular emphasis on their achievements and contributions within the qualifying period, but considering their achievements throughout their career. Click here to cast your vote for the award.

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

Male Chair of Destination Chesterfield Pete on stage at the Winding Wheel Theatre

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