Development

D2N2 LEP secures funding for next wave of Skills Bootcamps provision

D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has secured almost £5 million to broaden its successful Skills Bootcamps offer.

The organisation has a successful track record of delivering Department for Education funded Skills Bootcamps, which have been developed by the Government as part of the Skills for Life programme.

Following successful applications in four previous waves of Skills Bootcamps, D2N2 LEP has now been allocated further funding as part of the fifth wave of Skills Bootcamps allocations.

The funding of £4,967,950 represents an increase of almost £1.5 million on the previous allocation in Wave 4 (£3.5 million).

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks for adults aged 19 or over. They give people the opportunity to build up valuable sector-specific skills based on local employer demand and provide a direct path to a job on completion.

With this funding boost, D2N2 LEP indends to broaden the range of sectors that its Skills Bootcamps support. For example, for the first time, Skills Bootcamps in leadership and management will be offered for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

The organisation will also work with providers to offer a wider range of Skills Bootcamps programmes in priority areas of digital, construction, engineering and green skills (construction and electric vehicles).

As the lead partner, D2N2 LEP will be working with Derbyshire County Council to open the procurement window to allow providers to apply for delivery contracts for Wave 5 Skills Bootcamps programmes. D2N2 LEP will make an announcement as soon as this window opens, expected to be later this Spring.

Employment and Skills Manager at D2N2 LEP, Richard Kirkland, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve succeeded in our application to be a Wave 5 Skills Bootcamps provider, following our successful track record of delivering Skills Bootcamps in all four of the previous waves. It’s fantastic that through the increase in funding we’ve secured, we’ll be broadening our offer to include new programmes, such as leadership and management for small and medium sized businesses.

“This is really positive news as I look back on my 40 year career in education and skills and prepare to retire; it’s such a proud moment for me. I would like to thank all my colleagues, all our providers and partners for their support over the years and I wish all the Skills Bootcamps learners all the very best in their future careers.”

Richard will leave D2N2 LEP at the end of this month to commence his well-earned retirement, following his 40 year career in education and skills.

Businesses across Chesterfield are encouraged to find out more about the skills support available to help them grow their organisations, by attending the Employability and Skills Conference on Thursday, 8th February.

Find out more about D2N2 LEP’s Skills Bootcamps programme

MTM_manufacturing

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“A perfect location to live, work and play” – Chesterfield property firms highlight advantages of Derbyshire’s largest town

Property firms are shining a light on why Chesterfield is an excellent location to live and work, with the launch of a compelling new promotional film.

The new Why Chesterfield, Why Now? film, featuring insights from key figures in the local property industry, showcases the numerous advantages and opportunities Derbyshire’s largest town offers residents and investors alike.

Major housing schemes and development opportunities

A digger and construction worker on a Stancliffe Homes development

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director of The Devonshire Group, kicks off the video at the Mastin Moor investment on the northeast side of Chesterfield. The ambitious project includes 650 new homes, later living facilities, a new local centre, and approximately 50 acres of parkland. Byrne says Chesterfield is a great place to invest and closes the film by praising the town as a great environment in which “to live and to work and to play.”

Andrew comments: “Chesterfield is a great place to invest. The population of Chesterfield is estimated to grow by about 9,000 between now and 2035. Those people are going to require homes. So it’s important that we start that process as early as we can.

“It is a thriving market town, it’s a good sized town, it’s got good education, and it’s got that playground of the Peak District National Park on its doorstep.”

Waterside Quarter development proves Chesterfield’s appeal

Avant homes Waterside Quarter

During the video, Jack Staples from Avant Homes shares progress from the Waterside Quarter development, launched in 2020. Avant has successfully sold all 170 new properties on the development, proving Chesterfield’s appeal. Staples highlights Chesterfield’s abundance of amenities and excellent transport links.

Speaking on-site at Waterside, Jack said: “We’ve got just over 170 new properties. We’ve just sold our final homes on the development. In terms of amenities, transport links, Chesterfield offers a lot, but without that city price tag.”

Historic market town attracts families and commuters from London

Birdseye view of Chesterfield market place with stalls and people

Emma Liversidge, Land and New Homes Manager at Redbrik, emphasises the charm of Chesterfield as a historic market town with a village atmosphere. She notes the community’s friendliness, making it an attractive family destination.

“Every corner you turn in Chesterfield, there’s a new development popping up. It is a historic market town, but I think it does have that sort of village atmosphere. Everyone’s very friendly, everyone knows each other, which attracts families to the area. There’s quite a lot of commuters that are settling in Chesterfield, because it’s got the good schools, it’s on the edge of the Peak District, but mainly it has really good transport links.

Attracting hybrid workers with superb quality of life

Blue Puffin Billy train driving past at Queen's Park

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

Tom Ward, Sales and Marketing Consultant at Redbrik, sheds light on the influx of hybrid workers relocating to Chesterfield from London for the town’s affordable housing. He commented: “With Chesterfield having a train to London we’ve had a lot more people moving from London, maybe they only need to be in the office for one day a week. So it’s easy to come up here, we’ve got housing that’s more affordable, but you can still have that connection.”

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director of LimeLiving Estate Agents, echoes Ward’s sentiments when talking about Chesterfield’s growing appeal with the rise of hybrid working and flexibility. Wajs notes that many people who previously moved away have returned, recognising Chesterfield’s proximity to major cities and its convenient Peak District National Park access.

Jamie said: “We’ve seen relocation being at the forefront really of the majority of buyers coming in. We are finding also that, since the pandemic, hybrid working has come to be a lot more popular now and flexibility, and that people have come back to Chesterfield as well that have previously moved away. I think when you look at what’s around us here, we’re not too far from any of the major cities, but then you’re only minutes drive from the Peak National Park.”

The film paints a compelling picture of Chesterfield, showcasing its growth, community spirit, and investment potential. As Chesterfield continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the balance the town offers, making it a welcoming and increasingly attractive location for families, investors, and remote workers.

For more information on living in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

To discover why Chesterfield is an excellent location to invest and grow your business, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Plans revealed for more than 300 homes on North Derbyshire site

More than 300 homes could be built in Killamarsh, with a housebuilder set to submit plans to transform a former colliery site.

Housebuilder Harron Homes North Midlands is preparing to submit a reserved matters planning application to North East Derbyshire District Council for 322 new homes, in collaboration with Homes by Honey.

This site, next to Green Lane and Upperthorpe Road, has been purchased from Harworth Estates and two other private landowners who previously secured outline planning permission for 397 new homes.

The proposal is to transform the former Westthorpe Colliery site into a development of one to five bedroom homes over 45 acres of land, 20% of which would be designated for affordable housing. In addition, financial contributions of circa £750,000 will be made towards Sports Facilities, Education and Health Care in the local community.

The site sits within commutable range of Sheffield, Chesterfield and Rotherham with Killamarsh’s close proximity to the M1.

John Booth, Regional Managing Director for Harron Homes North Midlands, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to bring a wide range of homes suitable for a range of house-hunters in the area. We’ve taken on board previous concerns related to the number of houses being constructed and have been working closely with the council to generate a proposal to benefit everyone.”

Living in Chesterfield

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield has so much to offer those looking for a new home.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling market town or a picturesque village, Chesterfield boasts mix of contemporary and traditional housing.

It has excellent transport links to nearby towns and cities. Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham can all be reached easily within an hour, and London can be reached in under two hours by rail.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield.

A typical Harron Homes street scene for illustrative purposes only

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BRM unveils new brand identity and major office revamp

Derbyshire and South Yorkshire law firm, BRM has announced its rebrand after a period of significant growth across the organisation.

BRM’s new brand follows office expansion, targeted growth and high-profile appointments across the firm.

As well as a new logo, updated company values, and a new tagline, the rebrand sees the launch of the firm’s new website which better reflects the culture of BRM and the breadth of legal services it delivers nationally.

The company has completed a quarter of a million-pound refit of its Chesterfield office on Saltergate, whilst also expanding its Steel City House office in Sheffield by 3000 square feet.

Adrian Sheehan, Executive Director at BRM, said: “Our new brand marks a new era for BRM, and we’re delighted to share it with our clients, colleagues, and the community.

“Our updated brand better represents us as the firm we are in 2024. We’re a forward-thinking, innovative, and trusted organisation, and our new identity aligns with those values.

“Our new brand signifies the next step in our evolution and brings us up to date to reflect the quality of our services. One major step for us, is that we have dropped the word ‘solicitors’ in our name.

“We’re embedded within both the corporate world and the community, so our brand is now strong enough on its own. We will now be known as simply, ‘BRM’.

“We’ve served the people and businesses of South Yorkshire and Derbyshire for many years, and we are proud to be a strong pillar within the community. We have several charity and sporting partnerships within the region, which we look forward to continuing under our new brand.

“We’re a strong believer in company culture, and creating a positive environment for our teams to thrive in. We’re delighted both our Sheffield and Chesterfield offices have been fully renovated to fall in line with the re-brand which will add that extra bit of excitement around our new look.”

Thanks to recent expansion, the firm has appointed more than 20 new starters to its teams over the last six months, increasing staff numbers by 70 per cent over the last four years.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said: “BRM is a fantastic place for people to bolster their legal career. Our ability to provide jobs, recruit and retain employees from the local area is a source of great pride to us.”

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, added: “Our updated identity is simple and modern and better portrays our first-class service, our commitment to being a leading employer, and our delivery of industry-leading legal services.

“We’re very proud of our history, our people, and the services we offer, and we’re very excited that our new, modern brand represents the exciting future and new era for BRM.”

Visit BRM’s website for more information about their legal services: brmlaw.co.uk

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

BRM rebrand

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Refurbishment completed at Chesterfield town centre pub

A pub in the heart of Chesterfield, sitting next to the town’s historic market has undergone a refurbishment, with owners saying the venue looks ‘unrecognisable’ from its previous layout.

The Crown and Cushion has been revamped and transformed in the space of just six days, with visitors giving rave reviews to the pub for its new look.

After changing the exterior with a new coat of paint and signage last year, work has now taken place to brighten up the interior of the pub too.

The pub has been brightened up with much lighter pastel colours used throughout, complemented by feminine fabrics and patterns and lots of on-trend foliage with graffiti that incorporates features from the magnificent history of the market town.

Managers of the Crown and Cushion, Gill and Diane told us: “It’s such an amazing pub, with so much history and deserves the love that has been put into it with this makeover. We’ve seen lots of new faces at our launch party as well as the regulars returning, and everyone is absolutely loving the pub and what the company have done with it!

Crown and Cushion-bar area

The owners are also looking forward to the year ahead, with further plans to host entertainment and fun for guests.

They added: “We’ve got loads of exciting plans coming for 2024, with some great entertainment. Fun and friendly is our vibe – and that’s what this year is going to be all about.

“Head to the Crown and Cushion to see the transformation, and be sure to say hi!”

To find out more about the pub, head over to the Crown and Cushion Facebook page.

With plenty of unique ways to create a memorable night out, there is something for everyone in Chesterfield – no matter what you enjoy. Check out our visiting page for some great ideas and activities in the town: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Crown and Cushion interior

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Global Brands announces net zero strategy

Global Brands, an independent UK drinks company based in Chesterfield has committed to a sustainability journey to reach net zero by 2050.

The business is the largest supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK off-trade with brands including VK and Shake Baby Shake, and resides over the second largest premium tonic brand in the UK on-trade, Franklin & Sons. Global Brands acquired Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef from Molson Coors in 2023.

The sustainability journey for Global Brands commits to a path to net zero by 2050, with a 92% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset. By 2030, Global Brands will have a 40% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset.

The drinks business has achieved carbon neutral status this year, offsetting current carbon emissions while starting to reduce scope 1, 2 and some of scope 3 emissions. Emissions are based on an assessment by Carbon Footprint Ltd of the operational emissions across Global Brands facilities and transport activities.

Current carbon reduction strategies across the business include running operations from solar panels on the roof of the company’s 181,000 square foot warehouse, starting to switch the lorry fleet to HVO fuels, and commitments to reduce single use plastic across the business.

Key to the carbon reduction strategy is a focus on logistics and distribution – the main source of carbon emissions across Global Brands. By 2030, the entire lorry fleet will run on HVO fuels.

In the short term, Global Brands are supporting several projects that compensate for emissions that can’t be reduced immediately. To achieve this, Global Brands are investing in wind power initiatives in several developing countries, reducing and removing emissions, creating jobs and improving livelihoods, reducing dependency on other countries for energy, and protecting natural resources. These projects are across North West Africa, the Dominican Republic, and India, and are managed through Verified Carbon Standard, the world’s leading greenhouse gas crediting program.

Across the Global Brands portfolio, 100% of cans, plastic, and glass bottles are recyclable, with 90% of brands utilising 100% recyclable paper labels.

Zehra Gezer, Head of Marketing Projects at Global Brands: “At Global Brands, it’s our mission to continue creating and delivering delicious liquids and remarkable brands, enjoyed the world over.

“Many of our products such as Hooch and VK, are easy-drinking beverages for partying and fun, and these shouldn’t come with an environmental impact.

“Likewise, sourcing and infusing the most remarkable ingredients from across the globe into every Franklin & Sons product, shouldn’t be at the expense of increased emissions.

“Across Global Brands, we do recognise that we operate in a significantly single use industry, with many products in our category prioritising convenience over sustainability. But having a good time and enjoying remarkable drinks shouldn’t be at the expense of the environment.

“We understand that offsetting emissions is only a part of reducing our carbon footprint in the short-term, and long-term action is ultimately required to become truly carbon neutral.

“However, we believe it is important to do everything in our power to balance our impact as a business in the here and now, so we are proud to support a number of projects that compensate for the emissions we cannot reduce immediately by funding an equivalent carbon dioxide saving elsewhere.

“Through an active carbon emissions reduction strategy, we’re committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and this sustainability journey will underpin and encourage sustainable growth, especially as we continue to expand internationally and supply drinks that can be enjoyed the world over to more consumers.”

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

 

hooch global brands

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Chamber lands global accreditation for workplace wellbeing

East Midlands Chamber is helping to set the bar for workplace wellbeing after landing a global accreditation – with the help of the region’s top expert in the field.

The region’s largest business representation group has achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating at its offices in Chesterfield and Nottingham, following consultancy support from workplace consultants and office fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors, based in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

Administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating for buildings that focuses on operational policies, maintenance protocols, stakeholder engagement and emergency plans to address a post-Covid environment now and into the future.

WELL certification helps large and small businesses to take the necessary steps in order to prioritise the health and safety of their staff, visitors and stakeholders by reviewing environmental aspects such as air and water quality, nourishment, light, noise and comfort.

The WELL Health-Safety Rating focuses on stakeholder engagement, health resources, emergency preparedness and cleaning procedures. East Midlands Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “The pandemic shone a new light on how we manage workspaces in order to instil confidence among employees and visitors who use our buildings, whether it is everyday or on a hybrid working basis.

“We therefore felt it was important to adopt a recognised standard to ensure our buildings support the wellbeing of our people when they are working from the office in order to support collaboration with colleagues.

“Working closely with our patron Blueprint Interiors, we focused on areas including air and water quality management, cleaning and sanitation, emergency preparedness, health service resources, and stakeholder engagement and communication.

“As a result of these efforts, we are delighted to have received the WELL Health-Safety Rating, which we believe will enhance our offer as an employer of choice in the region while also acting as an exemplar for our 4,000-plus members.”

Workplace design consultancy and interior fit-out specialist Blueprint Interiors became the first company in the East Midlands to achieve the WELL Health-Safety Rating in 2021, and now supports other businesses to meet the requirements for accreditation.

Rebecca Beadle is a WELL-accredited professional, and lead project designer and well-being specialist at Blueprint Interiors.

She said: “We are continuously innovating in order to bring workplace consultancy, practical processes, sustainable building techniques, psychological theory, data insights and accreditations such as the WELL Building Standard together to ensure workplaces meet the needs of the people that use them. East Midlands Chamber has fully embraced all these principles and we are pleased to have been able to support it to achieve this prestigious rating.”

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

Dean Symonds and Lucy Robinson

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Rodgers Leask keep plans on track for new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Further details for the new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill Roundhouse have been revealed by one of the companies involved in the project.

National engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask is leading the design team currently working on RIBA Stage 4 designs for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield, which is awaiting planning permission.

The modern rail innovation and training centre will provide more than 1,400 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, and specialist research and development facilities – including a digital laboratory and commercial offices.

Appointed via the ESPO 2664 framework, Rodgers Leask’s involvement so far includes a full-service offering, comprising structural and civil engineering consultancy, geo-environmental engineering investigations and transport planning advice. The consultancy’s various experts are working to overcome the operational constraints posed by the busy industrial site, while also protecting the surrounding area’s interesting features – such as the historically significant Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Kriston Harvey, director at Rodgers Leask, said: “This is a very important project for the area and therefore we’re proud to be involved. Not only will it bring additional full-time jobs to the local area, it will also provide training facilities to enable people to learn new skills and open the door to highly skilled career opportunities in the rail industry. The research and development aspect of the building will see it become a prominent location for rail technology research and innovation, with fantastic links to the rail network.

“As everyone recognises the significant benefits that the project can bring to the community, engagement between the client, design team and other key stakeholders has been very positive and productive.

“Chesterfield has a clear vision for how it wants to develop over the coming years, with a strong plan for growth – it has been exciting to work with the council on this key project.”

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million, with funding for the project being provided through the Staveley Town Deal. Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail – part of Newcastle University.

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Rodgers Leask is working alongside architect Frank Shaw Associates, building services consultancy CPW and planning consultant Planning & Design Group. A planning decision is expected in early 2024.

For more information on civil, structural, geo-environmental and transport engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask, visit rodgersleask.com.

Rodgers Leask, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Chesterfield Borough Councill support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. The business is also a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group.

Driive artists impression

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Conference to showcase skills support on offer to Chesterfield firms 

Businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are being urged to capitalise on the support available to assist with improving the skills of their employees.

The Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Skills and Employability Conference will highlight the support available for businesses to upskill their workforce, further enabling local organisations to grow organically. The event is being hosted at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre, on Thursday, 8th February 2024 (8am-11am).

Book your free place at the event here.

Research conducted by East Midlands Chamber found that 72% of local businesses have difficulties in recruiting suitable staff. Meanwhile, The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (2022), found that nearly two-fifths of organisations (38%) are increasing efforts to meet their needs by developing more talent in-house. Upskilling existing employees is the most common response to solving recruitment issues.

Attendees will hear how local businesses have benefited from investing in upskilling existing employees, including through apprenticeships. BHP Chartered Accountants will share how they have promoted more than 70 of their own staff into more senior roles within the last year, alongside taking on more than 40 new trainees.

Chesterfield Borough Council will also reveal more details about its new skills brokerage service for businesses. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the service aims to give firms a single point of contact for impartial advice and support on how to fill vacancies and reduce skills gaps within their organisations.

College student construction

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “We’re proud to support the annual Skills and Employability Conference because we believe it helps businesses to share best practice and encourages them to work together to develop the skills of our residents, creating a resilient workforce who are able to capitalise on new opportunities and help local businesses to grow. This year the conference will be heavily focused on the support that local businesses can access and I’d encourage any business owner to come along and find out more about the help available to them.”

Michael Timmins, Chair of the town’s Skills and Employment Partnership and Director at AECOM, said: “The annual Skills and Employability Conference continues to prove popular with firms across the town, enabling them to gain the latest information on the initiatives taking place to ensure we keep producing a strong and talented workforce for our organisations to thrive. As a collective, our town must continue to play its part in unlocking the potential of our people, so I would urge any business owner in the area to attend the conference and see how we can support you to grow.”

The Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference is delivered by the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

employ event 873

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Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club Academy moves forward

A new academy being developed by Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club is being redesigned. The completed academy will support young people to gain qualifications in sport.

The project, which is funded through the Staveley Town Deal, had been progressing well over the last two years but due to inflation in construction costs the project is being redesigned whilst still aiming to deliver the same outcomes for young people in Staveley.

The original design would have seen a second storey extension to the clubhouse with new classroom facilities upstairs. Instead, two older buildings will be refurbished and a new unit in the club’s colours will be erected.

Terry Damms, chairman of the club, said: “This is an inspiring project that will create a new facility for 16 to 18-year-olds to gain qualifications and take the first step towards a career in the sports industry.

Unfortunately, ongoing inflation has meant that we can no longer expand our existing clubhouse, but we will instead be refurbishing existing buildings and creating a new freestanding unit.

This will not impact the quality of education we can provide or the numbers of people who can be enrolled. We’re continuing to finalise these updated designs, but we are aiming to welcome the first learners on site in September 2024.”

Students at the new academy will be able to work towards a Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. The classroom space will also be used to provide community-based qualifications such as refereeing.

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board and Destination Chesterfield Board member, said: “This is a fantastic project, that will help transform young people’s futures. The Town Deal Board aims to ensure that Staveley is a place to start, to stay and grow and we can help realise this by investing in training facilities where young people can get the qualifications they need to succeed.”

As well as developing the Skills Academy the club led the site clearance and refurbishment of the car park opposite the Chantry Playing Fields. The enhanced car park provides more spaces and better visibility. It will not only help parents dropping their children off to the club’s youth games, it also serves the cemetery and links up with Poolsbrook Country Park and the Trans Pennine Trail.

Accelerator Funding through the Staveley Town Deal was also used to make drainage improvements to the junior pitches on the Chantry Playing Fields. These have helped ensure the pitches can be used throughout the year by young people in Staveley.

Staveley was one of 101 towns across England invited to make a bid for a Town Deal, and based on the Town Investment Plan was awarded £25.2m in March 2021. The funding will support nine projects which will help regenerate Staveley, creating economic growth and new opportunities for local people. All £25.2 million funding must be spent by March 2026.

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Artist impression of Staveley Miners Welfare Academy

Image supplied by Staveley Miners Welfare F.C. – Designed by Verteks Associates Ltd

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield Champions kickstart 2024 with new hires and promotions

Several businesses in Chesterfield, part of the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions, have started the year with positivity, by announcing new hires and promotions.

Find out which firms have been announcing growth in the town by reading our roundup below:

Banner Jones welcomes six colleagues onto trainee scheme

Banner Jones trainees

With 3 of its current trainee Solicitors due to qualify this month, regional law firm Banner Jones has welcomed six more colleagues from across its Chesterfield, Sheffield and Mansfield offices onto its Trainee Scheme.

Reflective of the firm’s ongoing commitment to investing in its staff, all of the candidates have completed their LPC and are now undertaking their Period of Recognised Training, following which they will be fully qualified solicitors.

Over the period of their training they will gain an understanding of several areas of law, spending a period of time in a contentious area of law, a non-contentious area of law and the Company’s compliance department.

Banner Jones’ Trainee Scheme, which is fully funded by the firm, aims to provide an opportunity for those with a desire and interest to learn new skills to further their careers, whilst also training to achieve a recognised legal qualification.

In addition to providing support to this cohort of trainees, the firm is also supporting Tim Barley in his Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship, Claudia Risorto, who joined Banner Jones in September, and is undertaking her Law Degree Apprenticeship, and various other members of staff to undertake CILEx and Licensed Conveyancing qualifications.

Commenting on the announcement Banner Jones’ CEO, Simon Wright, said: “We’re delighted to be training such a large number of colleagues to qualify as Solicitors, in addition to providing support to those undergoing various other qualifications.

“It is important to us that all of our staff enjoy working for Banner Jones, and that they have every possible opportunity to further their careers during their time with us.

“Our trainees and apprentices are an integral part of our future, and we wish them every success moving forward with their studies.”

Training Principal, Katie Ash, added: “With recruitment so difficult at the moment, and having always sought to support our employees’ development and ambitions, the decision to extend our training programme to nurture even more of our own talent was a natural one.”

Banner Jones is an award-winning regional law firm which boasts specialist departments across the full spectrum of legal services, including family law, employment law, conveyancing, dispute resolution, company formation, business sales and purchases, commercial agreements, commercial property, debt recovery and personal injury claims.

BRM bolsters dispute resolution team with four key appointments  

BRM Dispute Resolution team 2023

Chesterfield and Sheffield-based law firm, BRM is delighted to announce the appointment of Director Simon Lockley, alongside Kirsty Coggin as Senior Associate, Annabel Denby Hollis as Senior Solicitor and Adam Mayer as Chartered Legal Executive, to the firm’s Dispute Resolution team.

The appointments will position BRM with the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.

Simon joins BRM with more than 30 years litigation experience with his most recent role being Head of the Sheffield Office at Lupton Fawcett.

Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam are joining Simon in the move after a combined 15 years with Lupton Fawcett and have started at the firm this week. Annabel will join BRM on 15 January 2024.

Simon is regularly instructed by both corporate and individual clients in high-value litigation and specialises in company and shareholder disputes, complex contractual claims and professional negligence.

Simon also has extensive experience in claims against employees and directors for breach of contract/duty, civil fraud and insolvency litigation.

Listed as a key individual in his field in the Legal 500 UK, Simon is regarded as ‘highly rated by clients’ and ‘technically superb’.

Simon said: “BRM is an ambitious, modern and forward-thinking firm and I am delighted to be joining its Dispute Resolution team as a Director.

“The firm is business-focussed and has a fantastic reputation in Sheffield and Chesterfield as well as the wider city region”.

“BRM is making a real statement and both my team, and I are looking forward to being part of the firm’s growth in Sheffield and its ambitions for the future.”

Rob Cooke, Head of Dispute Resolution and Executive Director at BRM, said: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome Simon, Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam to the Dispute Resolution team here at BRM.

“As we have previously worked together, I know first-hand the fantastic reputation Simon has both in the city and the profession and the positive difference he will make to our team.

“Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam will bring their collective experience to the team and will position us as the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.”

Kirsty joins the firm as Senior Associate and was recently rated as a ‘Key Lawyer’ in the Legal 500.

She said: “BRM is dynamic and forward looking. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the firm and be part of its growth and exciting vision for the future.”

New Director joins UKATA

UKATA Banner trade show

UKATA has announced the appointment of Ali Rees (Evans) to the Board of Directors from 1st November 2023.

The Board of Directors comprises of elected individuals from the membership of the association, and whose function is to provide strategic direction and governance.

UKATA Directors have a responsibility to understand the environment in which the association is operating and to lead the association in fulfilling its purpose as effectively as possible with the resources available.

Ali’s role as a learning and development professional for the last 22 years has given her significant insight and experience in ensuring all learning interventions are effective and provide valuable return on investment. Since working in local authority, Ali has been delivering asbestos training and creating a pool of resources to assist with duty holder responsibilities for a portfolio of 600 premises and 100 housing stock.

As director, Ali will use her skills in business, HR, organisational development, and performance management to support UKATA to move forward and maintain its status as a leading trade association.

Speaking of the new appointment, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans said “Following our board meeting in October 2023, the board of directors have unanimously agreed to co-opt Ali Rees (Evans) from Caerphilly County Borough Council as a non-licensed director of UKATA. Ali has always been very supportive of UKATA, and we very much look forward to working with her more closely”.

Ali commented “I’d like to thank UKATA for giving me this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to working with them in our collective aim of ensuring effective management of asbestos in the UK through positive training solutions”.

BHP strengthens its Charities team with two senior promotions

Nicola Adams BHP Charities team

BHP, one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the North of England, has announced two key promotions within its Charities team.

Neil Baldwin, from the firm’s Cleckheaton office, and Nicola Adams, who is based within its Chesterfield office, have both been promoted to Director RI (Responsible Individual), meaning they are able to sign off client audits on behalf of the firm.

Nicola joined the firm straight out of school in 2007, and became a Chartered Accountant in 2012, having completed her AAT qualification. Nicola was previously on the audit committee of Chesterfield College and has been a trustee of Derwent Rural Counselling Service for over 10 years, including being Chair from 2016 to 2018.

Jane Marshall DL, BHP Partner and Head of Charities and Not for Profit, said: “At BHP, we’re committed to supporting and developing the skills of our people for the long term. To see Neil and Nicola, who both joined the business at the start of their careers, take the next step on their journey is fantastic and a testament to their hard work on behalf of our charity clients.

“I look forward to continuing to work with them to support our clients as we navigate the continuing challenging economic environment.”

Nicola said: “I am extremely proud to have achieved this promotion at BHP. A Responsible Individual role was always something I personally wanted to achieve in my career. BHP has given me the support and opportunity to do this, and I am looking forward to taking on new responsibilities and putting pen to paper on audit reports.”

Six new board members appointed by East Midlands Chamber

Five of the new board members, from left - George Oliver, Martin Barnett, Sandra Wiggins, Anjuu Trevedi and Maz Patel

Stuart Dawkins will remain as president of East Midlands Chamber for another year after the business representation group held its annual general meeting (AGM) in December.

The former FTSE 100 bank communications director continues in the honorary role after Dawn Whitemore, who was due to succeed him for 2024, chose to defer her year as president until it is compatible with her position as chief executive of SMB College Group.

Craig Brothers, owner of Nottinghamshire-based digital transformation consultancy Six Degrees Associates, was inaugurated as vice-president, with Dawn now set to succeed him as president at the AGM in 2025.

Six individuals were also elected to the Board of Directors, a group of 17 experienced business leaders representing different fields and sectors who provide strategic direction to the senior leadership team in driving forward the chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire.

The new board members are:

  • Martin Barnett, chair of TTK Confectionery (trading as The Treat Kitchen)
  • George Oliver, owner of 1284
  • Maz Patel, managing director of Scope Construction
  • Amit Sonpal, director of commercial banking at Barclays Bank
  • Anjuu Trevedi MBE, head of knowledge exchange and innovation at De Montfort University and senior partnerships development manager at Twycross Zoo
  • Sandra Wiggins, manufacturing mentor and leadership coach at Authentically Balanced.

The organisations featured in this article support 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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