Destination Chesterfield

Local residents asked to share views on Staveley’s future

2nd September 2020

Residents are being invited to have their say on the future of Staveley through an online consultation organised by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The feedback will contribute to the development of a new vision for Staveley that will be used to support the Staveley Town Deal.

The Staveley Town Deal is aiming to secure up to £25m of funding to help build a stronger economy for Staveley. This consultation will be used to support a new ‘place vision’ for Staveley; Chesterfield Borough Council want to know what makes the Staveley area special, how you feel about the area, and how you would might like to see it develop in the future. The consultation is open until Tuesday 15 September.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s vital that local residents and businesses have their say on the future of Staveley. We need to work together to ensure that we are delivering the projects that matter most to the people of Staveley.”

Ivan Fomin (pictured), who is chairman of the Staveley Town Deal Board and Managing Director of local business MSE Hiller, said: “It is a great chance for local people to be involved in deciding how this funding should be used. A key measure of the success of the project will be the level of local benefits that can be achieved for the local community.”

The Town Deal will allow Staveley the opportunity to build on the foundation of previous regeneration activity. For example, the council previously worked with Staveley Town Council on the refurbishment of Staveley Hall which was funded by Heritage Lottery and European Regional Development Fund. This has enabled the renovation of the listed building and the creation of managed workspaces and a community café.

There are also plans for the development of the Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route and work is progressing on the remediation of the Hartington site.

The new ‘place vision’ will be used to support the Town Investment Plan which the council aims to submit to Government in the Autumn. It has already submitted a bid for accelerated funding to help kickstart several projects that will have an immediate impact.

A total of five projects were put forward for consideration from this accelerator funding including new CCTV equipment for the town centre, sports pitch development at Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club and new play equipment for King George V Playing Field.

A Staveley Town Deal board has been established and this will help oversee and guide projects that deliver the most value for residents of Staveley. The board is composed of elected members from Chesterfield Borough Council, Staveley Town Council and Derbyshire County Council, both local members of parliament, representatives from local charitable organisations, Derbyshire Police, education leaders and representatives of the local business community.

The Town Deal Board is also appealing for project ideas to be submitted to be considered for inclusion of the bid. Some projects have already been identified, but more are welcome.

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and share your views here: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/get-involved-in-the-staveley-town-deal

You can also make suggestions for projects here: https://mytown.communities.gov.uk/town/staveley-derbyshire/

Staveley Hall

Elliot Mather raises thousands for Ashgate Hospicecare

27th August 2020

Elliot Mather Solicitors has raised a total of £14,000 for Chesterfield charity, Ashgate Hospicecare.

The impressive fundraising figure is the result of a year of company raffles, as well as many team members taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk and local events such as the Redbrik Chesterfield Half Marathon. The money will help Ashgate Hospicecare to offer a vital range of therapy and support services on site for patients with life-limiting illnesses, as well as family members.

Alan Grant, Chief Operating Officer at Elliot Mather Solicitors said: “As a company, we believe that it is important to give back to the local community. Our Chesterfield office has been supporting Ashgate Hospicecare for several years and we find it amazing how their events bring people together in solidarity.”

“We are thrilled to have raised such an amazing amount of money for such a worthy cause and it is because of the dedication of our team that we have been able to do this.”

“Although the coronavirus pandemic has affected many fundraising events, this will not affect their determination to continue fundraising. They are looking forward to what the next 12 months will bring for them!”

Elliot Mather Solicitors and Ashgate Hospicecare support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Virtual careers fair launched for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire school leavers

20th August 2020

An innovative online careers and employability platform, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, has been launched today (20 August).

The launch has been timed to coincide with the release of the GCSE exam results, and whatever the outcomes, this platform is aimed at helping school leavers in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire make important decisions about their future amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

Developed by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Destination Chesterfield and the D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub, the My Future platform aims to provide free careers information to Year 11 and 13 young people.

The virtual careers fair platform aims to give young people across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire access to the widest range of high-quality careers advice, employment support, skills and educational programmes, by showcasing up to 100 businesses, education and training providers across 10 zones.

Using innovative 360expo software, the My Future platform has been developed in partnership with Chesterfield-based Oasis Studio. It has been created in just a few weeks in order to provide support for young people facing uncertainty in their future as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ahead of the launch, the D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub has worked with careers leaders from 21 schools and colleges across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, to reach out to all Year 11 and Year 13 school leavers encouraging them to access the My Future platform.

To encourage young people to visit the platform, the North Derbyshire Careers Hub is also giving away an iPad to one of the first visitors to the site who finds the golden spire which will be hidden within one of the virtual stands.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Whether you’re finishing GCSEs, A-Levels or college courses, what you have achieved this year is remarkable, especially given the extra challenges you have faced due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Whatever your results are, you should be especially proud of yourself.”

“Now is the time to start thinking about the future and what that next step is, and the My Futures platform is the perfect way to get started.”

“My Future has led to a truly innovative digital platform that provides access to a wide range of careers advice, employment support, apprenticeships, skills and training programmes, all under one virtual roof. I hope that My Future will help young people to build the career and future that they want, so that we can continue to build a thriving borough together.”

James Brand, D2N2 LEP board member and Managing Director of United Cast Bar, a Chesterfield-based business which is featured in the engineering and manufacturing zone on the platform, said: “My Future is a fantastic platform which we were delighted to get involved with. It’s a great opportunity for businesses to reach out to young people during these challenging times. The platform will offer real support and guidance to school leavers who have been unable to access the careers information they would normally have had to help them make informed decisions about their future.”

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager explained: “Everyone has worked tremendously hard to get the platform up and running. We have been overwhelmed by the support and involvement of businesses and training providers to make My Future happen and support local school leavers during this challenging time.”

D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub Lead Dan Heffernan said: “In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to ensure our young people are given high quality and relevant transitions support. My Future will ensure that we continue to inspire our future workforce, give them advice on their future career prospects, and showcase the types of next steps that are available.

“On behalf of D2N2 LEP I want to thank all of the organisations that have contributed to this project so far, all of whom are helping to transform the skills and employability agenda across North Derbyshire.”

There are around 100 virtual exhibition pods active on the platform across 10 zones, including careers and transition, regeneration, enterprise and employment support, digital and technology, engineering and manufacturing, financial and professional services, health, community and public service, property and construction, logistics and distribution and tourism, hospitality and retail.

Young people can take control of their future by visiting My Future and learning about the many opportunities available to them at www.myfuture.org.uk from Thursday 20 August. The mobile app can also be downloaded here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Confidence in Chesterfield’s recovery plans

12th August 2020

Ten years ago the country was in the depths of a financial crisis and Chesterfield Borough Council responded with forward-thinking, throwing its weight behind the establishment of the town’s marketing campaign, Destination Chesterfield.

As the then vice chair of Destination Chesterfield and councillor, John Burrows, said: “We could have chosen to bunker down and ride out the recession, but we didn’t. We chose to be proactive and forge ahead with our marketing plans.”

And history, as they say, is repeating itself will the launch of the council’s ambitious Economic Recovery Plan which aims to support and rebuild the town’s economy in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This cannot be the job of the council alone. It has to be a team effort and it is encouraging to see that the council is not alone in its efforts to support the high street’s recovery. As well the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme to support the hospitality sector, locally grown initiatives like the Twist & Save Card scheme, are also encouraging local people to use local shops and services and drive that all important footfall.

There are encouraging signs for the town’s recovery already. Chesterfield’s retail scene is fully re-open and we have even seen a number of new independent shops open since lockdown.

The structural steelwork frame for Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

More encouragingly, during lockdown we saw developments move forward. Construction began on the Innovation Centre at Saltergate and Peak Resort took a step forward with the announcement that the UK’s first fully serviced national park gateway will be opened there.

This lays a very firm foundation for the growth of Chesterfield’s tourism and hospitality sector which will enable us to make the most of the increased popularity of staycations.

This summer, the country as a whole has truly seen the value of a staycation, and Chesterfield’s proximity to the Peak District is delivering immediate benefits to our economy. The opening of the gateway facility at Peak Resort will turbo charge the benefits of having the Peak District on our doorstep.

Out of crisis often comes opportunity and entrepreneurialism. Chesterfield has the raw ingredients to support this – from office and retail space and development land to funding and expert advice. Teamwork is key.

There is no denying that we all have a long road ahead of us in our recovery, but I am confident that Chesterfield will once again respond to the challenge, and the borough will continue to thrive.

Peak Resort – David Loyd Leisure Site Cleared

Posted in Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield

Work progresses on site of Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

11th August 2020

The erection of the structural steelwork frame for Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre marks a major milestone in the development’s progress.

Work on the site has been progressing safely through the Coronavirus pandemic with work on the foundations beginning in April and now the steelwork is being erected, which means that the new Enterprise Centre is on track to be completed and will be a key contributor to the town’s economic recovery.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, who visited the site said: “This is both an exciting and an important development for Chesterfield, and I’m pleased that work is continuing to progress despite the current challenges.”

“This Enterprise Centre is key to ensuring that Chesterfield remains a thriving borough and will create lots of new opportunities for local businesses and people, supporting the sustainability of the town centre.”

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is an important development in Chesterfield’s post-Coronavirus economic recovery plans. It is also a key part of the plan to regenerate this key area of the town and to ensure the town continues to thrive.

Robert Woodhead Limited’s Project Manager, Daniel Cove, said: “Our current works on site centre around the installation of the steel frame and are expected to be completed within the next two weeks. This will then allow us to bring back the ground workers, install the lift pit, the underground tanking and the perimeter blockwork to allow for the installation of the ground floor slab. We are also expecting to receive delivery of the pre-cast concrete stair and the composite metal decking at the end of August to allow for the installation of the roof and expect to be watertight by mid-October.

“We are working with local companies on this project, the ground worker we have contracted for the works is DJ Newbury who employ a number of Chesterfield residents. Going forward we hope to engage with local supply chains for a number of trades including dry lining, flooring and painting and decorating.”

Andrew Dabbs, Board Director at Whittam Cox Architects, said: “As a local practice we are delighted to see progress being made on site.”

“The Enterprise Centre is an important part of the Northern Gateway regeneration in Chesterfield, providing a new and unique commercial offer which is designed to be a catalyst for further investment and development.”

As well as providing high quality facilities for businesses wanting to locate in the town centre, the architecture will provide a new contemporary landmark which will enrich the urban fabric of the town. This building is further evidence that Chesterfield can deliver its ambition and realise a building fit for a long and sustainable future.

Scheduled for completion in Spring 2021, the new building will provide 32 high-quality offices in a range of sizes (26 to 120 square metres) over three floors. It offers a shared reception and lobby area, meeting rooms, first floor break out area, bicycle store, shower and changing facilities, air conditioning throughout, lift access, internal bin store, kitchenettes on each floor for use by occupants, individually metered power supplies, access control to all office doors, CCTV coverage to internal communal areas and external area. IT fibre connection into building with maximum speed multi bandwidth and WIFI is provided throughout.

Office space is offered on easy in and out letting terms and tenants at the Enterprise Centre will also benefit from access to a range of other council services and venues, including business support and corporate rates for leisure passes, parking permits and conferencing facilities.

With its town centre location, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is easily accessible by car, train, bus and cycle users. It’s situated opposite the new Saltergate multi-story car park and close to all major bus routes and Chesterfield Train station.

The building has been designed to have sustainability principles at its heart, minimising its impact on the environment and achieving considerable efficiencies in energy use.

The new centre is an important addition to Chesterfield Borough Council’s commercial property portfolio and will hopefully be a key component in Chesterfield’s post COVID 19 recovery.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre project has benefited from grant funding support from the Sheffield City Region Investment Fund.

To find out more about your business being based in the Enterprise Centre email either claire.cunningham@chesterfield.gov.uk or hannah.ramsdale@chesterfield.gov.uk.

To find out more about the Northern Gateway development, click here.

Architects for the centre, Whittam Cox have produced a virtual walkthrough of the building which you can watch below:

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Summer

Chesterfield’s Robinson Plc appoints sustainability expert as new director

6th August 2020

Award-winning sustainability expert Lubna Edwards has joined Chesterfield-based Robinson Plc, custom manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging, as their Group Sustainability and Marketing Director.

Lubna will be building on the company’s heritage and strong commitment to sustainability and launching a range of new initiatives as the 180-year-old business rebrands in the autumn.

With over twenty years’ experience in sustainability leadership, Lubna is excited to become a part of the successful company, which announced their latest significant operational investments and 5% year-on-year sales growth, despite challenging market conditions.

Lubna’s appointment follows that of Dr Helene Roberts as the new Chief Executive of Robinson plc, both previously having worked at leading global packaging manufacturers Klöckner Pentaplast and Sealed Air.

Dr Helene says: “We are absolutely delighted to have Lubna on our leadership team. Lubna is a force for change in the plastics industry – a champion of sustainability and the voice of reason at a time when misconceptions about plastics and the packaging industry are prevailing. Tirelessly working to make people more aware of the benefits of plastic in a sustainable world, Lubna is also now in demand globally as a leader for change and engagement in an environmentally and socially compassionate way, while meeting market needs”.

Lubna has appeared on both national and regional television aiming to debunk the many misconceptions around the industry, explaining the benefits of plastics, a unique valuable material that should be managed and disposed of responsibly, collected, sorted and recycled. She is determined to support the development of a circular economy and prevent leakage of plastics into our marine and land environment.

Lubna, who will be developing a new dynamic sustainability strategy on her arrival, is thrilled about her new role. She says: “I am elated to be working with an organisation that has such a remarkable history and heritage, helping to embed sustainability at the heart of everything we do. I am passionate about packaging, in particular closed loop plastic packaging which can, if we all take a joined-up approach, drive transformational change and create a better, circular future for plastic, while remaining high performing and fully functional”.

Aside from media appearances, Lubna lobbied for change, working with industry and governmental organisations on single-use plastics with the European Commission and HM Treasury.

Lubna is trustee member of RECOUP, and has been Board member of RECOUP, INCPEN, BPF, EUPC, UK Plastics Pact, and chaired the EUPC PET Sheet association. She also extended her efforts into the community for example as a Starpack awards sponsor for educational institutes focussed on packaging design, and collaborating with schools as part of WRAP’s Fresher for Longer engagement campaign.

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home

Government funds projects across D2N2 region to deliver homes, infrastructure, and jobs

4th August 2020

Tens of thousands of new homes and other vital infrastructure projects were given the green light with nearly £1.3 billion of investment confirmed today (4 August 2020) by Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick. These plans include a centre of excellence for modern construction techniques and digital technology in Chesterfield.

The new Digital learning centre in the existing Chesterfield College facilities will look to target provision of modern construction techniques like Augmented/Virtual reality as well as Building Information Modelling.

The centre will provide new space for a centre of excellence and will deliver new learners to Chesterfield and the surrounding areas with higher level skills to aid regional construction and manufacturing businesses.

The move is part of the government’s comprehensive plan to deliver upgrades to local infrastructure and boost skills to help fuel a green economic recovery.

Over 300 successful projects in England are being told they will receive a share of the £900 million Getting Building Fund, which was announced by the Prime Minister in June, to invest in shovel-ready housing and infrastructure projects, creating jobs and supporting economic recovery across the country.

As part of that announcement, £44.4million was awarded for projects within the Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire.

The investment is expected to deliver up to 45,000 homes, create up to 85,000 jobs and reduce around 65 million kgs of CO2 emissions across England.

In D2N2, the funded projects are expected to deliver wide-ranging support and diversification of the local economy and will assist nationally important industries including manufacturing and aerospace.

Amongst the portfolio of funded projects, there is also a strong focus on research and development in modern construction techniques, food manufacturing, electrification of flight and low-carbon technologies.

There is a key focus on job opportunities, including in the health sector where there is strong demand.
Sustainability runs through the programme along with encouraging diversification of the town and city offer; unlocking housing and associated infrastructure to support them as thriving centres.

Projects receiving funding within D2N2 include:

A centre of excellence for modern construction techniques and digital technology in Chesterfield
A spine road to unlock further phases of development at Berry Hill in Mansfield and includes community facilities
The new Bridge Court Health Education campus in Worksop which will provide further education opportunities in the health and digital sectors
The UK Electrification of Aerospace Propulsion Facility at the University of Nottingham
A Digital Turbine Centre in Worksop which will establish 5G Hub and act as a catalyst for skills and innovation development
The Manufacturing Research Centre based on Infinity Park in Derby
Key infrastructure developments designed to unlock the development of the former Drakelow power station in South Derbyshire
Smartparc, a food innovation park built on a 140-acre brownfield site near Derby
The renovation and repurposing of municipal buildings in Glossop, turning them into incubation units for business start-ups
Further investment into the Southside project in Nottingham to remove blight through the demolition of a derelict shopping centre.

All project funding is subject to the delivery of a full business case which will be considered by the D2N2 Investment and main Boards.

Housing Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: “As we get Britain building we are also laying the foundations for a green economic recovery by investing in vital infrastructure for local communities, creating jobs and building environmentally-friendly homes with a huge £1.3 billion investment announced today.”

“This government is determined to level up all parts of the country and this funding will not only give a much-needed boost to our economic recovery, it will help build the good quality, affordable homes the country needs.”

David Williams, Interim chair of D2N2 said: “We very much welcome the announcement by the government. This will provide a major stimulus for our communities across the region.

“We believe the size of the allocation demonstrates a belief in what the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership can deliver and a testament to the collaborative working between the LEP and its partners.

“As we reshape our Local Industrial Strategy to reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic it’s essential we remain flexible to support our communities, that we adapt to new opportunities, and build an economy that it is more resilient in the long term.”

“We will continue to work with the government on future funding for investments to support our ambitions for the region.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home

Shortlist revealed for 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards

29th July 2020

The very best shops, market stalls, events, projects and businesses on Chesterfield’s high streets have been revealed by Destination Chesterfield.

Thirty-six finalists have been named in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards. Postponed since March, the finalist line-up and confirmed awards ceremony date, now come at a time when it is more important than ever to shop locally.

The High Street Awards have never been more relevant. Previously known as the Retail Awards, the Chesterfield High Street Awards recognise the exceptional businesses, people, events and regeneration projects in the town centre, Chatsworth Road, Whittington Moor, Staveley and Hasland that are working together to overcome the challenges of a rapidly changing retail environment.

This year, two new categories have been introduced to the awards line up – High Street Business of the Year and the Future High Street Award – recognising the contribution that non-retail businesses, projects, initiatives and developments make to the modern high street.

Members of the public nominated from December to February. The nominations have now been counted and online reviews have been assessed by Destination Chesterfield, resulting in a 36-strong shortlist across 12 categories.

At the awards ceremony, one of the 27 shortlisted retailers will take the overall top title of Retailer of the Year, sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire).

To ensure the safety of both finalists and guests, Destination Chesterfield will host a virtual awards ceremony later in the year. The winners of the Chesterfield High Street Awards will be announced live on the evening of Wednesday 21 October, and everyone is invited to watch.

Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator said: “The people behind the town’s high street businesses have shown such resilience during challenging times, and we could not be more proud of them. The team at Destination Chesterfield is pleased to have adapted by taking the awards ceremony online. An advantage of taking the ceremony online is that we are able to welcome many more guests to recognise the achievements of high street businesses. ”

“After months of lockdown, never have high street businesses needed our support more than in the current trading conditions. The ceremony is an opportunity to say thank you to them and show all high street businesses our ongoing support.”

Winners of the Chesterfield Retail Awards 2019

The businesses shortlisted so far in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards include:

High Street Business of the Year
Chatsworth Travel
Pinewood Properties
Strada Estate Agents

Future High Street Award
Flexible Leasing at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre
Premier Inn, Elder Way
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre’s Big Screen

Best Town Centre Event
1940s Chesterfield Flea Market
Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival
Chesterfield Motorfest

Best Customer Service
Curious Goods
Crazy about Cakecraft
Tallbird Records

Best New Store
Nana B Baby & Children’s Wear
Shop Indie
The Wool Cabin

National / Multiple Retailer of the Year
Marks and Spencer
Warhammer
Waterstones

Food and Drink Retailer of the Year
Brampton Brewery
Chesterfield Craft
Love Brewing

Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year
Charles Hedley
Dotique
Ingmans

Hair and Beauty Business of the Year
Belle Vie
Fifty Shades of Beauty
One Nine Three Hair and Beauty

Home, Gifts and Leisure Retailer of the Year
Adorn Jewellers
Huckleberry Willow
Quinney’s Pet Supplies

Market Trader of the Year
Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce
Simon Harding’s Fruit and Veg
Steph’s Sustainable Stuff

Independent Retailer of the Year
Fred’s Haberdashery
H&F
Little White Dress

The 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors, including Adorn Jewellers, Apprentice Town (led by Chesterfield Borough Council), BRM Solicitors, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College Group, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), eBusiness Works, JP Fire Safety Solutions, The Pavements Shopping Centre, Peak FM, Q2 Creative and Redbrik Estate Agents.

Destination Chesterfield has a few sponsorship opportunities remaining. If you would like to support the high street please click here or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator, by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207207.

Something Special Bridal received two awards at the Chesterfield Retail Awards 2019

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home

Chesterfield manufacturer to increase workforce by 20%

6th July 2020

A booming post-lockdown order book has prompted a Chesterfield manufacturer to create new full-time jobs, significantly increasing its workforce by more than 20 per cent.

Blachford UK, based in Holmewood, is looking for 20 people to fulfil a number of jobs and add to its growing work force. The available roles include multi-skilled maintenance engineers, apprentices, FLT Drivers and production operatives. All roles are available to start immediately and, following a 12-week probation period, will become permanent.

The pandemic left the business fearing for its future after it was forced to furlough all staff and shut the factory down for four weeks. After implementing social distancing measures and being given the green light by the Government to re-open, Blachford has since been met with unexpected demand for its acoustic insulation products which it produces for industrial vehicles.

Jason Lippitt, Managing Director, explained: “It’s a complete turnaround situation and a very enviable position to be in considering the current economic climate. Like many manufacturers, lockdown came as a real blow to us and created uncertainty in the business. However, since re-opening the factory, orders from our European and British customers have flooded in, securing the future of Blachford and creating brand new jobs. It’s a great sign for the local economy and manufacturing as a whole.”

Jason added: “All these new roles are part of the company’s growing future. It’s vital to me that all employees progress successfully in their career with Blachford and, more importantly, enjoy being part of a fantastic team.”

People interested in applying for the roles or who like further information, should email recruitment@blachforduk.com

Click here to find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield

D2N2 LEP allocated £44.4m in Government ‘New Deal’ plan

6th July 2020

The D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), covering Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, has received a £44.4 million cash boost from the government to fund projects that will help the local economy and create jobs.

The ‘New Deal’ announcement is part of a comprehensive plan by government to deliver upgrades to local infrastructure and boost skills in a move to fuel economic recovery across the whole of the UK.

Answering a national call from Government, D2N2, together with partners from across the region, put forward a long list of compelling and innovative projects to deliver growth and continue to develop the talent, ideas, and facilities in the region.

These projects will now be evaluated by government to identify which will receive funding and deliver the most value in terms of restarting the local economy and meeting the future challenges of levelling up the UK. Successful projects will need to demonstrate they meet LEP key priorities and can be completed by the end of 2021.

David Williams, Interim Chair of D2N2, said: “We very much welcome the announcement by government. This will provide a major stimulus for our cities, towns and communities.”

“We believe the size of the allocation demonstrates a belief in what the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership can deliver and a testament to the collaborative working between the LEP and its partners.”

“We will continue to work with partners as we begin negotiations with the government to determine which projects will receive funding based on their ability to accelerate growth and create employment.”

“As we reshape our Local Industrial Strategy to reflect the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic it’s essential we remain flexible to support our communities, that we adapt to new opportunities, and build an economy that it is more resilient in the long term.”

“We will continue to work with government on future funding for investments to support our ambitions for the region.”

This fast-tracking of investment, totalling £11 million, will help kick-start activity in towns and high streets across the East Midlands, ensuring local people can see and feel the benefit as soon as possible.

The investment will support economic recovery as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and will be used to improve digital infrastructure; support skills and career opportunities; and the transition to a low carbon economy.

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

Chesterfield’s hospitality and leisure businesses start to reopen

3rd July 2020

More businesses across Chesterfield, including pubs and restaurants, are set to re-open to the public from Saturday 4 July.

To make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable weekend, Chesterfield Borough Council is reminding residents and visitors to adhere to social distancing rules and respect the Covid-19 secure measures that local businesses have put in place.

Residents that are making a special visit to a particular town centre business are being reminded to check that it is open as a number of businesses have delayed opening until Monday 6 July.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said: “After over 100 days of lockdown, this is a great chance for you to visit the town centre and support our local businesses. Sustaining our many brilliant independent businesses as well as the many household names that appear on Chesterfield’s high street is vital for our local economy.”

“Please do look after yourselves and your families. If we all follow the rules we can keep everyone safe. It is vitally important that we all remember this when visiting our favourite pubs and restaurants.”

The council is working closely with its partners to ensure that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

There will be an increased police presence and the council’s town centre ambassadors will also be on hand if people need any support.

The council’s licensing team have been working with business owners to ensure that they have undertaken appropriate risk assessments and have procedures in place to ensure the safety of both their customers and their staff. Bars and restaurants will be collecting customer details as part of their responsibility under the NHS track and trace system.

The council is encouraging visitors to walk or cycle into the town centre where possible, as it is anticipated that taxis will be busy. Each taxi company will also have their own Covid-19 secure working arrangements in place and you should check these when booking.

Residents using public transport are also required to wear a face covering on all public transport.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting