Destination Chesterfield

Construction progressing on major cold store expansion for Magnavale

Magnavale, one of the UK’s leading providers of temperature-controlled storage, has announced that its development currently taking place at its Chesterfield cold storage facility has made significant progress, and is on track to be completed in late 2024.

Since breaking ground in February 2023, construction of Magnavale’s Chesterfield cold storage expansion has progressed smoothly. As of August 2023, the company reports that the steel framework is now complete, and the installation of insulated wall and roof panels is also nearing completion.

A Magnavale spokesperson said: “Over the month of September, the construction crew will be finishing the roof membrane and intumescent painting of the new steelwork. Concurrently, work will commence on the small plant rooms and internal services including electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, and other systems.

“On completion, the expansion will add a significant 25,000 pallet positions to the cold stores’ existing capacity of 44,000, bringing the total pallet capacity of the facility to 69,000, making it one of the largest cold stores in the area.

“This expansion will not only accommodate the increasing volumes of Magnavale’s existing customers but also open doors to new customers wanting to utilise Magnavale’s temperature-controlled facilities and value-added services.
The facility features one of the most comprehensive portfolios of value-added services, encompassing, blast freezing, microwave up-tempering and contract packing.

“Coupled with its strategic location, just off the M1, Magnavale Chesterfield is extremely desirable for food manufacturers that wish to cut unnecessary cost, risk, and complexity from their cold chain.”

Well served by the M1 and the Midland Mainline, Chesterfield is within one hour’s drive of four major airports and London is under two hours by rail. Find out more about why the town is perfectly located to base your business.

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

magnavale cold store expansion

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

Investors praise Chesterfield’s location and lifestyle in new campaign

A series of short films celebrating small and medium-sized companies investing in Chesterfield during 2023 have been premiered online by Destination Chesterfield, the organisation responsible for promoting Derbyshire’s largest town as a place to invest, work, live and visit.

The Why Chesterfield, Why Now? films, which are being published and promoted across a range of online and social media channels, including YouTube and the Destination Chesterfield website, seek to inspire more businesses to locate in Chesterfield and attract investors to the Chesterfield Investment Summit, which will take place in October.

They feature four companies – ChargedEV, Rosewood Wealth Management, NeoDyne and Voeberg Hospitality – that have already created more than 100 jobs in Chesterfield and are expected to invest over £5.6 million in the town’s facilities over the next ten years.

All four business leaders featured in the films cited Chesterfield’s central location and transport connections as significant benefits of being located in the town. They also mentioned lifestyle, access to talent and a supportive investment environment as reasons to base businesses in Chesterfield.

Chesterfield will hold its eighth annual investment summit on 18 October 2023, which will outline the town’s growth strategy, detail new investment opportunities, and provide an update on development activities. More than 200 delegates, including domestic and commercial property investors and business leaders from the UK, are expected to attend the event, which is sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and Turner & Townsend.

Data shared in Chesterfield’s growth strategy, published in April 2023, show the town’s business population grew by more than a fifth (21 per cent) in the last decade and created 2,000 new jobs. Chesterfield aims to attract 400 more businesses and a further 2,000 jobs by 2030.

Matt Close, UK Business Lead at NeoDyne, an Irish industrial automation and electrical engineering company that opened its first UK office at Spire Walk in August, said: “There’s a huge benefit to be able to go and see our manufacturing customers and their processes. Getting to them easily and quickly is why we’ve opened the UK office, and Chesterfield is close to many areas that undertake manufacturing in the UK. There are good transport links from airports, public transport and the road network, a history of engineering excellence in the area, and several local universities we’re partnering with and have recruited from.”

Emily Smith, Director of Voeberg, the property investment company developing The Holywell Hotel in Chesterfield town centre, comments: “We moved from Scotland almost two years ago looking for a new investment area for our residential and commercial projects. Chesterfield was one of the first places we looked at because of the location, and it stood out because of the demand in the area. Chesterfield gave us that kind of local feeling that you don’t get in big cities and the ability to bring something new to the area. Going through this project, we’ve worked closely with the council, which has been massively supportive.”

Mark Pymm, Founder and Managing Director at ChargedEV, an electric vehicle chargepoint installation specialist which relocated to The HQ in March, comments: “We’re already one of the leading installers of EV charging points in the UK, and we expect to maintain that position. We needed new premises that allowed us to grow and scale our customer operations and office-based functions, and this building was prime for that. We chose to maintain a team in Chesterfield because of its transport links and central location, which offer easy access nationwide, and because of the diverse and talented range of people we can get here.”

Donna Robertson, Director of Rosewood Wealth Management, an independent financial advice company relocating to One Waterside Place, part of Chesterfield Waterside, comments: “Chesterfield has a great community feel, people do want to help each other out. It is exciting to be part of that and to be able to grow the business and give back to the community. It was great to get in when Chesterfield Waterside was just starting to take off, and be here from the start, knowing how amazing this development is going to be.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, comments: “Entrepreneurs and SMEs are vital for economic growth and Chesterfield provides this section of the business community with everything they need to thrive. Businesses in Chesterfield enjoy a strategic location in the centre of the UK, offering access to great talent, great transport links and a great quality of life. Chesterfield is investing in the facilities and homes required to deliver sustained growth, support local startups and scaleups, and attract great people and businesses from elsewhere looking for a compelling alternative to big cities.”

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

The HQ Chesterfield Charged EV

 

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

How is Chesterfield creating quality urban spaces for future work and play?

Town centres across the UK must evolve as people demand more experiences and better accessibility. In Chesterfield, several projects are moving forward to improve the look and feel of our key spaces, known as the public realm.

At this point, you might be thinking – ‘What exactly is the public realm?’ In simple terms, it encompasses all publicly owned areas outside of buildings, such as streets, squares, parks, and pedestrian zones. These spaces act as the backdrop for our daily lives, providing settings for social interaction, leisure, and recreation.

Organisations in the town’s Property & Construction Group aim not only to enhance the visual appeal of the town but also to foster a sense of community and pride among its residents.

To find out more, we have been catching up with the people behind some of Chesterfield’s key local public realm projects. Read below to find out about the exciting changes you can expect, or may already have seen across the area.

Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield

We will all see major changes to our town centre over the next couple of years. That is because Chesterfield Borough Council has secured £25m in Levelling-up Funding from the government.

A significant portion of this funding will be spent on improving the public realm in the town. We will benefit from enhancements to the Market and New Square, including more seating, improved lighting, refreshed paving, and a new market layout with modern stalls.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield will improve the look, feel and flow of public spaces across the town centre. We want to celebrate our heritage whilst ensuring the town centre is an attractive place to live, work and visit.

“The improvements aim to encourage people to spend more time in this area, as well as creating enhanced flexible event space to boost visitor numbers.

“Elsewhere, improvements to the public realm will be made along Burlington Street, Rykneld Square and Corporation Street where paving, planting and lighting will be improved.  This will create an enhanced visitor experience when travelling to the market from the railway station and will also support the businesses situated along this route.

“We have already made a start towards this vision with works on Packers Row. This area demonstrates the high standards we are aiming for across the town centre. We expect works to start on the Market area during Spring 2024 with the entire project complete by March 2025.”

Chesterfield Waterside

One Waterside Place

One of Chesterfield’s flagship regeneration schemes, The Chesterfield Waterside project is beginning to come to life.

A new seven-storey office development is now open, with firms such as BHP and Varley operating from there.

But that’s not all!

New homes and leisure spaces will bring a key area close to the railway station back into use.

Speaking on Chesterfield Waterside’s ambitions to create a vibrant public realm for the area, Tom Swallow, Development Manager at Bolsterstone Group commented: “One of the main aims for the regeneration at Chesterfield Waterside is to deliver a truly sustainable development in which people can live, work and ‘play’.

“A high-quality public realm is integral to this aim. It provides a space which people can truly use and appreciate. It is also essential to the making of a new place adjacent to Chesterfield town centre.

“The main function of the public realm is to make places more accessible. It is about creating permeability through the space, linking the surrounding areas such as the town centre, train station and Chesterfield Canal. We are looking to do this through the creation of new public squares, footpaths and shared surface roads which encourage people to walk rather than drive.

“High-quality public realm also supports retail and leisure trade. It drives footfall as occupiers look to locate to areas which complement their business in a safe environment. To achieve this, we’re focusing strongly on landscaping and design during the planning stages. The aim is to draw people to Chesterfield with unique a unique offering. The public realm is the key to unlocking this.”

Elder Way

elder way public realm bsp

The Chesterfield Elder Way scheme is breathing life into the town’s famous former Co-op department store.

This area has already seen major improvements – from modern paving to the addition of nature. It has been designed to give the northern entrance to the town centre a modern feel. BSP Consulting explains how they have collaborated with partners to transform Elder Way.

Carrie Booth, Business Development Manager at BSP said: “BSP has recently been a part of the team that completed a key public realm project in the town. This involved works to the whole length of Elder Way, along with its junctions with Saltergate and Knifesmithgate. The work was part of the wider Northern Gateway regeneration scheme.

“BSP worked alongside Danaher & Walsh, who were appointed by Chesterfield Borough Council to carry out the public realm and highway works.

“The recent scheme that our engineers were involved in included reconstruction of existing footways and paved areas. It also included the introduction of trees, pavement widening, taxi rank improvements, and a range of formal and informal pedestrian crossing improvements.

“We worked on de-cluttering the street scene, adding new bus shelters and re-positioning bus stops on Elder Way. Furthermore, we implemented new street furniture, improved the design of loading bays, and carriageway resurfacing.

“Making the town more accessible to residents and visitors will play a key role in its future regeneration. As a result, Chesterfield’s economy will be boosted, attracting future economic growth and creating more jobs. We are excited to be part of the team regenerating the local area.”

Chesterfield Station Masterplan

Plans to transform Chesterfield Station and the areas around it will ensure a bright and inviting welcome to everyone.

The Chesterfield Station Masterplan centres around a new transport hub, capitalising on the benefits of Chesterfield’s proximity to nearby cities.

Chesterfield Borough Council is partnering with Aecom and Whittam Cox Architects on the proposals.  View the plans in more detail here.

The plans include a new public boulevard for pedestrians and cyclists, leading from the station to the town centre. In addition, those walking to and from the town centre will benefit from a new footbridge over the a61 bypass.

Andy Dabbs, Board Director at Whittam Cox and Chair of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group commented: The forthcoming masterplan for Chesterfield Station is not merely a logistical upgrade, but also a reimagining of the space as a welcoming gateway to the town. Careful selection of materials, incorporating both hard and soft landscaping elements, will significantly alter the station’s look and feel.

“Attention to accessibility features, such as well-designed pathways and signage, ensures that the arrival space will be user-friendly for all. By creating a balanced, aesthetically pleasing environment directly outside the station, the masterplan aims to provide a fantastic arrival experience that complements the overall town centre.

“This approach to integrating materials and accessibility features enhances the urban fabric and further solidifies Chesterfield’s status as an increasingly desirable destination.”

Find out more about the wide range of regeneration projects currently taking place in Chesterfield.

To get more information on Chesterfield’s Property & Construction group, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/propertygroup/ or email: PropertyGroup@chesterfield.co.uk.

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

Chair’s blog: “It has been delightful to see so many people attending events”

As summer draws to a close, I wanted to reflect on some of the fantastic activities which have happened in our town over the last few months…

It has been delightful to see so many people attending events, bringing local communities together and supporting our independent businesses.

Back in June, we saw some fantastic cricket as Derbyshire played host to Yorkshire at Queen’s Park, with Derbyshire coming out victorious in front of a fifth successive sell-out crowd.

The Chesterfield Canal Festival also saw more than 8,000 people visiting Staveley. It is brilliant to hear of the work Chesterfield Canal Trust is carrying out with partners to restore the canal and the Staveley basin.

Elsewhere, Chesterfield’s reputation for having one of the biggest and best Pride festivals in the region was once again showcased, with more than 5,000 attendees enjoying ‘90s boyband, A1 and rapper Tinchy Stryder.

The first-ever Chesterfield Children’s Festival proved a hit with youngsters, with silent discos, comedy clubs, theatre workshops, and more. It is wonderful to see that our town is providing a quality leisure offer for people of all ages.

One of the events which really stirred emotions was the Sparkle Night Walk, in aid of Ashgate Hospice. A record 3,100 people took part, raising over £150,000 for a charity which I know is dear to so many in our area. A big well done to everyone who got involved.

We also saw the first-ever Peddler Market in Chesterfield, which was welcomed to the town centre with resounding success. It was great to see people enjoying quality food and drink from the traders, including Chesterfield’s own Pizza Pi! I can’t wait to see its return on the 15th and 16th of September.

I’m excited to see how Chesterfield’s programme of events continues to develop in the coming years, with upcoming regeneration in our marketplace set to create a more communal and social space in the heart of the town. Somewhere you will enjoy sitting and chatting with family and friends.

Plans for next year include a new market layout with modern stalls, more seating, better lighting, and refreshed paving. This will all provide the flexibility needed to host events regularly in the town centre, providing that much-needed footfall for our independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The regeneration will go ahead thanks to £25m of funding, secured by Chesterfield Borough Council, with the market being just part of a major project that will see several improvements to our town centre, including the Stephenson Memorial Hall. Who knows what fun awaits once all the work is completed!?

I hope that we can all continue to support our local events, businesses, and people. By doing so, we can make a huge impact on the future economic growth of our area by attracting more visitors to stay here, more families to live here and more businesses to invest here.

Peddler Market

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Peddler Market Chesterfield to host exclusive business networking event

The popular Peddler Market in Chesterfield is getting ready to welcome businesses from across the town and region to Peddler Connect, an exclusive networking session at its next market in September.

The event, which is one of the UK’s leading street food markets, launched for the first time in Chesterfield back in June and was enjoyed by visitors from Chesterfield and further afield, who enjoyed a wide range of food, drink, crafts, and live entertainment.

Visitors will once again be able to enjoy the buzz of Peddler Market in the scenic and historic setting of Chesterfield town centre next month, and the event has partnered with Destination Chesterfield to ensure businesses hear how they can get a slice of the action.

A free, informal networking session is being hosted on Friday, 15th September, offering delegates an exclusive opportunity to meet and purchase food and drink before the event opens to the public.

Luke Hood, Head of Marketing at Peddler Events commented: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming businesses to our next event in Chesterfield and are delighted to be playing our part in helping to create connections, which will benefit the local economy.

“On top of that, guests will be able to sample some of the amazing food, drink, and entertainment on offer, ensuring they can enjoy networking with a twist in a relaxed and informal setting. Our launch event in June was a huge success, and we can’t wait to welcome more people to Peddler Market Chesterfield this time around.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “It has been fantastic to see the popularity of Peddler Market since its launch in the town this summer. We are pleased to be supporting firms by bringing them together in a unique setting and helping them to make those all-important links which businesses thrive on. I would encourage anyone in the business community to come along and enjoy the afternoon.”

Find out more about the networking event and book your place at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/peddler-connect/

Funding to help bring the event to Chesterfield has been provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Chesterfield Borough Council received £2.69m of UKSPF funding which will be invested across the borough over the next three years. A portion of this will be invested into promoting the borough as a place to visit, and providing support for arts, culture, and heritage activities.

peddler networking

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

Chesterfield Champions celebrated as 2023 Derbyshire Business Awards finalists revealed

East Midlands Chamber has revealed this year’s finalists for its Derbyshire Business Awards, including six Chesterfield Champions that have made the lineup.

CarMats.co.uk, Eco Tech Engineers, Hopkinson Waste, Penguin PR, Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare, and Rosewood Wealth Management are set to be celebrated at a prestigious awards ceremony taking place in November.

The dinner is one of three taking place to honour around 150 companies across the three counties of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

Finalists now have a chance to state their case for winning at virtual judging panels taking place in the week commencing 11 September. Panels will comprise sponsors, a Chamber board member and a representative from the Chamber’s senior leadership team.

An overall Business of the Year is also selected for each county from all finalists by headline partner Mazars. Last year’s winner for Derbyshire was Katapult.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The resilience, ingenuity and hunger for growth within the East Midlands business community never ceases to amaze.

“Our firms have faced some of the greatest challenges they will have ever encountered in recent times. Rather than become consumed by these, they have instead found new ways to succeed, whether that be through collaborating with other organisations, adopting new technologies to innovate, connecting with local communities, developing new export markets, or identifying opportunities for driving environmental and cost efficiencies.

“These achievements are reflected across the lineup of this year’s Business Awards, along with individual honours that recognise the tremendous entrepreneurship existing in our region, as well as the future generation of talent among our outstanding apprentices.”

A gala dinner takes place for Derbyshire Businesses on Friday 10 November at Derbyshire County Cricket Club. Hosted by ITV Central news presenter Sameena Ali-Khan, the evening features a three-course gourmet dining experience, keynote speakers, live entertainment and networking opportunities.

The full list of finalists for the 2023 Derbyshire Business Awards are:

Business Improvement through Technology, sponsored by Purpose Media
Coach Hire Comparison
Devtank
LT VA Services
Strive Business Solutions
Test Your Intolerance

Community Impact, sponsored by University of Derby
Archaeological Research Services
Derventio Housing Trust
Penguin PR
Sporting Communities

Outstanding Growth, sponsored by Amazon
AG Group
Bloc Digital
EcoTech Engineers
Ocean King
Test Your Intolerance

Excellence in Collaboration, sponsored by ITS Technology
Be the One in 111
Bloc Digital and JCB
Colleague Box and Blue Light Card
Cosy Direct and Derby Kids’ Camp
Partnerships for Better Business
Sunbelt Rentals UK

Environmental Impact, sponsored by Futures Housing Group
HSG UK
Licence Check
Hopkinson Waste

Commitment to People Development
Longbow Bars & Restaurants
Midland Lead
Morrison Design
Purpose Media
Vibrant Accountancy

Apprentice of the Year
Anthony Yeomans – Devtank
Elena Richards – Rolls-Royce
James Bird – The Silver X Group
Leah Bancroft – Longbow Bars & Restaurants
Lucy Hilton – Cosy Direct
Molly Grice – EEM

Entrepreneur of the Year
Ian Chambers – App4 Developments
James Bowers – Enicor
Jonathan Edgeley – Montrose Health Group
Rob Hattersley – Longbow Bars & Restaurants
Steven Thai – Ocean King

Education and Business Partnership Award, sponsored by Concertus, part of Vertas Group
Althaus Digital
EMA Training
Embark Federation
Penguin PR

Excellence in Customer Service, sponsored by Aston Lark
Longbow Bars & Restaurants
Motorcycle Funerals
Peak Translations
Reformed IT
The Silver X Group

Excellence in International Trade
Bloc Digital
IVC Brunel Healthcare
Spatial Global

Small Business of the Year
Bloc Digital
CarMats.co.uk
Cedar Tree Chiropractic
EcoTech Engineers
Reformed IT
Rosewood Wealth Management

Excellence in Innovation, sponsored by Rolls-Royce
Bloc Digital
Engine Mobile
Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare

Derbyshire Business of the Year, sponsored by headline partner Mazars
Winner to be announced on the night

2023 Derbyshire Business Awards winners on the stage at the ceremony

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home

Leading industrial automation and electrical engineering firm opens new headquarters in Chesterfield

One of Ireland’s leading industrial automation and electrical engineering companies has opened its UK headquarters in the centre of Chesterfield today.

NeoDyne’s newly recruited team, based at the company’s state-of-the-art Spire Walk office, was joined at the launch by Toby Perkins MP, Shadow Minister for Skills and Further Education; local councillors Jenny Flood and Keith Miles, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council Amanda Serjeant; and Dom Stevens from Destination Chesterfield.

Referring to Chesterfield’s long history of engineering excellence, Matt Close, UK Business Lead, said NeoDyne was harnessing the area’s potential and local talent to guarantee the success of the office. “Chesterfield was the ideal location to base our UK headquarters, with its accessibility to the midlands and the north,” he said. “We are proud to invest in and support the local economy and to work closely with Destination Chesterfield to champion the area.”

Matt Close joined NeoDyne at the start of the year, bringing over 25 years’ experience of working with leading UK automation and engineering companies. He will head up the Chesterfield team.

2_NeoDyne team with Toby Perkins MP and Cllr Amanda Serjeant Dep Leader Chesterfield Borough Council

Introducing Matt, Martin Farrell, NeoDyne MD, said, “With his industrial background, knowledge of our sectors and business connections, Matt brings a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the team. Matt has already grown our UK operation to 15 engineers with plans for significant further expansion. I am confident our UK office will go from strength to strength under his leadership.”

The launch was also attended by representatives from local universities, including Sam Trafford, Andrea Huidan and Greg Stewart, University of Sheffield; and Joe Hockney and John Sorsby, Sheffield Hallam University.

Thanking them for attending, Matt said, “Working with local institutions like Sheffield Hallam University and The University of Sheffield has helped us build a talented and skilled UK-based team. This talent pipeline is another key factor behind our decision to base ourselves in Chesterfield. We are committed to partnering with local universities to help develop future engineering talent through placement and graduate recruitment programmes.”

Toby Perkins MP said: “I am delighted to be joining NeoDyne for the opening ceremony of their new premises in Chesterfield. It is a real show of confidence in our town that NeoDyne has chosen to open here, bringing with them new jobs, and helping to boost the local economy. The company is bringing in highly-skilled jobs and will be a welcome addition to the strong engineering and manufacturing base we have here in Chesterfield.

“Manufacturing in Chesterfield has changed from the days when thousands turned up at factory gates every morning, but still there are products across the world, that are ‘Made in Chesterfield’. “I look forward to formally welcoming NeoDyne to our town and discussing their plans for the future.”

NeoDyne has enjoyed continued growth since its launch in 1998 and employs more than 170 automation, electrical, and IT engineers in six offices across the UK and Ireland.

As a leading industrial automation and electrical engineering solutions and services provider, the company has more than 300 customers, including large multinationals in pharma, high-end food and beverage manufacturing and energy.

Looking to expand or relocate your organisation? Find out why Chesterfield is the perfect location to base your business here.

NeoDyne team with Toby Perkins MP

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

Peak Gateway appoints Stirling Prize winning architects

International, award-winning architects, Stanton Williams have been appointed to design The Gateway at PEAK, consented on 300 acres of reclaimed land located on the eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park, near Chesterfield.

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

Alongside Stanton Williams, a multi-skilled project team has been assembled, led by Milligan, a specialist destination and mixed-use real estate developer, who are working closely with regional strategic partners, including Chesterfield Borough Council, The University of Derby and the Peak District National Park Authority.

Peak Gateway Properties has briefed the team to define and design the Gateway build and operations around the principles of a ‘regenerative enterprise’, promoting the restoration and regeneration of natural resources and social systems.

The founders of Birchall Properties, the landowner, have already invested over 35 years in nature recovery and passive rewilding on the 300-acre Birchall Estate which had been the subject of extensive open-cast activities. By way of the Environment Act 2021 any development on the property must achieve a biodiversity Net Gain of at least 10% on its pre-development status.

The Gateway at PEAK will be an international standard tourist destination providing a basecamp and a gateway into the 550 square mile Peak District National Park.

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

Gateway @PEAK location

John Milligan, CEO of Peak Gateway Properties and Chairman of Milligan said: “It used to be that an iconic building was one that stood out from its surroundings. The Gateway will be iconic, but we’re setting a new standard for what that means. Here buildings will integrate with their surroundings and work to enhance biodiversity beyond what will be mandated.

“We want to attract a discerning visitor, who cares about the protection of the UK’s original National Park and wants to enjoy the wellbeing benefits that nature and being in the outdoors, for either leisure or sport, can provide. A wide range of experiential retail brands with a unique proposition centred on nature and the outdoors will help create the destination.

“The travel hub is central to the Gateway’s proposition, allowing visitors to transition into electric or hydrogen vehicles for onward exploration of the Park, its stunning landscapes and thousands of activities and attractions. This is a way to expand access to the park and support more destinations in a low impact way. Currently 85% of visitors travel into the Park by car which is not sustainable. Last year we ran the first trial for the travel hub alongside Toyota and other local partners. The technology operated on a 40% regenerative energy basis which is fantastic. The trial stakeholders and users endorsed the urgent requirement for this sort of service – when it’s up and running we hope it will be an exemplar for other hubs around the Park and for other National Parks in the UK to follow.”

Gavin Henderson, Principal Director at Stanton Williams, said: “We are delighted to be working with PEAK Gateway Properties to realise their ambitious vision for this exceptional site. The Gateway will be a unique destination designed as a cohesive group of buildings integrated into the landscape. The scheme embraces the principles of the circular economy and uses highly sustainable, durable materials including local stone and timber. As well as regenerating a former open-cast mine, it supports natural ecosystems through habitat protection and enhancement, while connecting people with nature and encouraging active and low-carbon travel to and within the Peak District.”

Rupert Carr, a founder shareholder in Birchall Properties, the landowner, and a director of PEAK Gateway Properties said; “The planning consents for PEAK Gateway Resort were implemented and safeguarded in 2016. We are very pleased to be moving forward again after surviving the challenges of Brexit and COVID.

“The realisation of Gateway fulfils our long-held ambition to showcase regenerative enterprise through land reclamation, a low carbon build and significant local employment creation.

“It is particularly pleasing to be a first mover in respect of offering tourists a zero carbon, carless mobility service to the attractions and landscapes of the UK’s first national park and to the medieval market town of Chesterfield.”

The Gateway’s zero carbon mobility service and its related infrastructure are critical to the delivery of this £300m investment programme into the visitor economy. The intention is to emulate the success of an international ski resort by providing hospitality and mobility from the outside of a national park. The Gateway, phase one of the PEAK Gateway Resort, represents a £150m capital investment and over 1,000 jobs, secured through a ‘green economy’ skills academy.

Section 73 and Reserved Matters Applications relating to the consented planning approvals will be submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council early Autumn.

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

The Gateway @PEAK Bird's Eye View

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

New Chester’s drive-thru fish and chip shop opens at Markham Vale

A Chesterfield restaurant and takeaway, which has received rave reviews and awards for its fish and chips over the last decade has completed the opening of a 2nd branch.

Chester’s, which has been based on Sheffield Road since 2012, has now opened a new eatery at Markham Vale, just off Junction 29a of the M1 motorway.

The new branch boasts a drive-thru capability, meaning those passing through on the motorway and around the Chesterfield and Bolsover area can get their favourite dishes conveniently while on-the-go.

Owner, Chris Ioannides commented: “We are so proud and relieved that we have finally got the new branch open.

“It’s been a tough couple of years, from aspects like not being able to get energy to the property, or the extreme price increases we have had to endure since covid.

“We can finally stand from across the road and feel proud. You can expect to see nearly all your favourite dishes that are served from our Sheffield road branch, from our amazing fish to our homemade burger.”

Chris also spoke with fondness about being based in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, telling us he is pleased to have made his latest investment in the area: “We love Chesterfield, and since our first launch at the beginning of 2012, we now know most of our customers by name!”

“It’s not just a business for us, we want to be a part of the town and its people. Many of our customers are like family. We named our breakfast dish on our new menu after a close neighbour to our Sheffield road branch, who made us serve it on our menu, Alf’s breakfast!”

“Sadly he passed, but the memory will always be with us and he will always be part of the making of Chesters. We always try to support local suppliers and businesses on our journey.

Speaking to other would-be entrepreneurs in Chesterfield, Chris added: “Our advice is if you have a business plan, work hard at it, never give up, use local businesses when you can and don’t let little things get you down on the way.”

Find out why Chesterfield is the perfect place to get your business idea off the ground at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Chesters Markham Vale

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

5 reasons why families are choosing to live in Chesterfield

Why are families choosing to live in Chesterfield? In May 2023, the town ranked 2nd best in the UK to raise a family – according to enjoytravel.com.

Meanwhile, local estate agency Redbrik reported a 200% rise in Google searches for houses in Chesterfield over the past year.

To find out why demand has shot up in such a short space of time, we have been speaking to experts and leaders in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions and the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group.

Here are five reasons why Chesterfield is proving a desirable place for families to call their home:

1. Perfect location

Champions Event

 

Located in the heart of the UK, Chesterfield is set amongst the stunning backdrop of the Peak District National Park.

Despite the beautiful landscapes surrounding the town, Chesterfield is close to several major cities such as Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby and Leeds too. The town is easily accessible by all means of transport.

Well served by the Midland Main Line, Chesterfield is within an hour of four major airports. Additionally, London is under two hours by rail.

Speaking about the town’s ideal location, Ross Bateman, Associate Director at Redbrik said: “It is located just a short train ride away from Sheffield, Nottingham and other cities, and a short drive from the Peak District, which positions Chesterfield perfectly in the middle of all the action!”

Furthermore, a pioneering zero-carbon tourist transport network was recently trialed in Chesterfield and the Peak District. The trial was led by the Gateway at PEAK, alongside Toyota and Chesterfield Borough Council.

The PEAK Express will offer visitors access to a hop-on, hop-off service, linking our town to the Peak District. Find out more here.

2. Affordable properties

One of the reasons families are choosing to live in Chesterfield is the town’s affordability.

House prices in Chesterfield offer you more for your money per square foot than nearby towns. According to Rightmove, the average house price is at least £10,000 cheaper than nearby cities of Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham too.

Rental costs are also cheaper than major nearby cities. According to Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, the local market remains competitive.

He said: “Rents are certainly rising in Chesterfield but perhaps not to the same unaffordable levels that we are seeing in some of the larger cities in the region. This is perhaps due to the ongoing development of attractive sites in and around the town.

“Chesterfield remains a forward-thinking market town. There always seems something going on to appeal to families and to individuals and it’s great to see people returning to the High Street.”

3. New houses contributing to the area’s regeneration

badger croft chesterfield

Several new housing sites are coming to life in Chesterfield, bringing quality and affordable homes to the town.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Local Plan (2020) set out the town’s strategy to build 240 homes a year by 2035. So far, that target has been exceeded in each of the last three years.

New homes at Chesterfield Waterside are bringing people closer to our town centre. Meanwhile, projects to build thousands of homes in Staveley and Mastin Moor are set to transform the area.

Dave Wood, Director at Woodall Homes commented: “Chesterfield is a fantastic place to live, with so much going on in the town centre. It should come as no surprise that the area has become a hotspot for development.

“As a market town, Chesterfield has thriving retail spaces. The town is also host to fantastic events like the brand-new Peddler Market, so there is plenty for people living in the area to get involved with.

“We firmly believe that Chesterfield is a fantastic place to live and to raise a family. This is why we are currently working on three developments in the area; The Orchards at Clay Cross, Churchfields in Calow, and The Shrubberies in Chesterfield town centre.”

4. Great outdoor spaces

With our beautiful outdoor spaces and a fantastic leisure offer which encourages health and wellbeing, you’ll feel very welcome in Chesterfield.

People who live in Chesterfield enjoy being located close to the Peak District. They have access to several Green Flag award-winning parks, and scenic walking and cycling routes.

Ryan Fish, Associate Director at Whittam Cox Architects recently chose to move to the area. He commented: “With the Peak District on our doorstep, a quality affordable building stock and a vibrant emerging town centre, moving to Chesterfield was a no-brainer.

“Immediate access to leafy green walks and room for our family to grow was a very attractive proposition, particularly to our lively 3-year old dalmatian!

“The central connectivity of diverse spaces in the form of Queens Park and the canal all add to the allure and the inherent potential of Chesterfield.”

5. Perfect work/life balance for modern working patterns

Networking at Celebrate Chesterfield

People no longer need to be in a city to secure their dream job. This is due to more people and businesses opting for flexible working patterns.

A rise in home working during the pandemic showed that a hybrid approach can be beneficial, in terms of wellbeing for employees and costs for businesses. Now, Chesterfield is capitalising on its excellent transport links by providing high quality, sustainable and modern office accommodation.

The availability of this space is attracting more people to live in Chesterfield. This is thanks to the ideal commute to and from the workplace, and the excellent quality of life our town offers outside of work.

Jamie Wajs, Director at Lime Living Estate Agents commented: “I think that post-pandemic, many people are working from home or choosing a hybrid approach. People who have lived in the town previously, and moved away for education or work are now coming back.

“I think you can look at where Chesterfield sits now. We all know it’s well placed, has great communication links and offers a great work and play lifestyle, with the Peak District being on our doorstep.”

For more information about living and working in Chesterfield, head over to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

This post has been produced thanks to contributions from Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group. To find out more about the group, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/propertygroup/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

80% of rooms let as Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre celebrates one year anniversary

After being open for just one year, 80% of offices are now let in Chesterfield’s flagship enterprise centre – providing a state-of-the-art base for new and growing businesses.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre was officially opened in July 2022 and to mark one year since opening an informal networking session was held on Thursday 13 July to celebrate with tenants.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We faced many challenges when developing this building but it was a cornerstone of our Covid recovery plan and to see the building almost fully let just one year after opening shows that our local economy is strong and that Chesterfield is a great place to do business. The building is home to a really diverse range of businesses with lots of them being new startups that we hope will grow and thrive in our town.

“It was fantastic to speak with our tenants and learn more about what they do and the opportunities they are creating for local people.”

The Enterprise Centre includes 32 office suites in a range of sizes, all of which are fitted with the latest hi-tech features that are now standard requirements for modern businesses. It has meeting facilities allowing businesses to host hybrid meetings and secure cycle parking and shower facilities to allow tenants to bike to work – supporting low carbon transport options. There are also features like the break out room where businesses can network and find out how they can work together.

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

But the centre provides much more than just office space, as tenants can access bespoke business support services to help them grow and develop, supporting the creation of more jobs and boosting the local economy.

The building also boasts some first-class sustainability features which help keep energy use down and ensure the building is fit for the future – supporting to the council’s target of becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre was part funded through a grant from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Investment Fund, with additional funding provided by Chesterfield Borough Council.

To find out more about your business being based in the Enterprise Centre contact the Enterprise Chesterfield team by calling 01246 903 900 or emailing enterprise@chesterfield.gov.uk

No matter what stage you are along your business journey, Chesterfield has a fantastic range of modern, flexible and sustainable office spaces to suit your organisation. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

Group at North Gateway Celebration

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