Development

East Midlands Chamber secures £8.9m funding to deliver new generation of business support

Businesses in the region are to receive a significant boost to their operations with a helping hand from East Midlands Chamber’s new generation of business support.

The chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire has secured £8.9m of public funding until March 2025 to deliver its Accelerator project, which aims to provide one seamless point of entry for relevant business support.

It comprises key activities under the strands of net zero, innovation, digital and finance, with the aim of helping companies at all stages of their development to start, sustain, grow and innovate.

The East Midlands Chamber Accelerator project brings together a number of publicly-funded contracts including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a key part of the Government’s levelling up agenda to enhance communities, businesses and skills; Innovate UK EDGE, which helps innovative SMEs to grow and achieve scale; and Made Smarter East Midlands, which assists manufacturers in switching to advanced and automated technologies.

Diane Beresford, deputy chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The East Midlands Chamber Accelerator programme has been carefully designed to provide businesses across the district with the right support, at the right time.

“At the heart of the project is a team of locally-based advisers and specialists, employed by the Chamber, who will offer high-intensity support to businesses seeking to grow, create new jobs or exploit technology to improve performance.

“Working with an adviser or specialist will be a key ingredient for businesses interested in taking advantage of Accelerator support and a diagnostics report will show them where best to point their energies.”

Key activities will be delivered under the strands of net zero, innovation, digital and finance to help businesses achieve the following:

  • Develop new-to-the-firm technologies
  • Improve productivity
  • Safeguard and create jobs
  • Adopt new digital technologies and processes
  • Engage in new markets
  • Improve productivity
  • Introduce new products and services
  • Increase revenue
  • Make progress on their journey to net zero.

The Net Zero Accelerator will build on the success of the Sustainable East Midlands campaign to deliver events, workshops, and the opportunity for an energy-saving and improvement opportunities audit.

Other investment themes include increasing investment in research and development at local level, with a focus on commercialising ideas and accelerating the path to market; improving training hubs, incubators and accelerators to support entrepreneurs and start-ups through the early stages of development and growth; and taking a whole systems approach to infrastructure investment that delivers effective decarbonisation across energy, buildings and transport.

While the Accelerator programme is open to participation from all sectors, there is recognition that manufacturing, visitor economy, retail and services businesses are critically important sectors that warrant targeted support.

The East Midlands Chamber Accelerator programme will build on the success of the Growth Hub service via a range of fully-funded action-planning workshops delivered locally on topics such as finance, carbon efficiency, HR and digital marketing.

Working with a locally-based business adviser or specialist will be the first port of call for businesses interested in taking advantage of Accelerator support. Diagnostics will be assessed, and a business action plan produced through the Balanced Scorecard strategic management system model.

Growth vouchers worth up to £2,000 – covering 100% intervention – will be available for specialist or sector-specific training or consultancy advice, in addition to support for identifying and accessing grant funding.

Businesses employing more than five people and with a turnover of £100,000 are invited to apply for a Chamber subsidy covering the £750 cost of joining the Help to Grow: Management course being delivered by the region’s universities, with the remaining cost of attendance covered by a Government subsidy.

The course provides an excellent opportunity for senior managers and leaders to engage with and learn from their peers.

Collaboration is very much the theme too for the Chamber’s East Midlands Manufacturing Network, in which manufacturers have the opportunity to share best practice and seek advice during local forums that take place every six weeks.

Businesses interested in benefitting from this next generation of business support are invited to contact the Chamber’s Information team on 0333 320 0333, info@emc-dnl.co.uk to arrange an exploratory meeting with a business adviser.

Upcoming events delivered as part of the Accelerator programme include:

  • 2 November: Building a high-performance team
  • 7 November: WordPress masterclass
  • 14 November: Negotiating sales through excellent customer care
  • 15 November: Getting started with paid advertising
  • 21 November: Managing finance

Workshops will be held in person at various locations across the districts.

For a full list of East Midlands Accelerator events, visit bit.ly/AcceleratorEvents

Find out more about support available to businesses based in Chesterfield.

Commerce House, East Midlands Chamber

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Young people encouraged to discover career pathways in construction

A series of three events aim to help young people and their and parents and carers learn more about apprenticeships and the options available to them after completing school.

The first Apprenticeship and Technical Education Information Event will be held at Staveley Miner’s Welfare Football Club on Wednesday 15 November from 6pm to 7.30pm. The event is free to attend and designed to allow parents, carers and young people to speak directly with local employers about their options after completing school.

This event has a construction focus with local firms including The Devonshire Group, Harron Homes and Oasis Studio, talking about the wide range of roles in the sector including the building trades but also other roles including architecture, surveying, marketing, business support and many more.

There will be a question-and-answer panel where the attendees can ask about opportunities in the construction sector and pathways into it.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Young Apprentice ambassadors about their apprenticeship experience. Free refreshments and hot food will be provided to everyone attending.

The event is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, the D2N2 Careers Hub and Workpays.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is crucial that we provide the support young people, and their parents need to make informed decisions about the future. Earlier this year we launched our Skills Action Plan which is all about taking a more collaborative approach to developing skills and career opportunities in Chesterfield and events like this are key to realising that ambitious approach.

“Working with our partners at D2N2 and the ASK programme, along with local employers ensures that young people attending the event can develop a really good understanding of careers available in the construction industry and the paths they can follow from school to secure these careers. We are creating a thriving borough where everyone can benefit from a growing local economy.

“Please do come along to this event or one of the other sector specific events later this year – it’s a fantastic way to help young people make the right decision for themselves to develop a great career in our borough.”

Laura Wilkins, Operational Careers Hub Lead, said: “The D2N2 Careers Hub are thrilled to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council and WorkPays to hold the first Apprenticeship and Technical Education Information event. We are excited to invite young people, parents/carers and the wider community to meet local employers from the construction sector and hear from apprentices about their experience of working and learning.

“This will be the first of three events to be held in the Chesterfield area, our aim for these events is to ensure that young people and their parents/carers receive the information, advice and support they need to be able to make an informed decision about their next steps, and whether an apprenticeship or technical education pathway is right for them.”

Tina Patel, from the ASK programme, said: “I am looking forward to meeting parents and carers who can expect an in depth and insightful talk about the world of apprenticeships to enable you to support your child with their future career decisions. The event will provide you with a greater understanding of the vocational pathways available and how you can support your child to apply for vacancies.”

Details about further Apprenticeship and Technical Education Information Events will be shared on the council’s website and social media.

Oasis Studio, The Devonshire Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, D2N2 Careers Hub and Workpays support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

College students construction
Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

Regional leaders urge government to upgrade Midland Main Line rail infrastructure

Rishi Sunak has been urged to ‘switch on’ the East Midlands rail network as fast as possible by accelerating work to electrify the region’s main link to London.

The Midland Main Line carries 3.75 million passenger journeys a year between Chesterfield, Derby, Leicester and London, but trains still have to travel on diesel power for part of the journey – impacting emissions, reliability and the time it takes to travel.

While the Midland Main Line section between London and Bedford was switched to electric power in the 1980s, the final section into the heart of the East Midlands still hasn’t been upgraded 40 years on.

Now, the region’s local authorities have come together under the banner of East Midlands Councils to call on government to name the date when work will start on a project that has been planned for years and was highlighted as a transport priority two years ago in government’s Integrated Rail Plan.

Sir Peter Soulsby, the elected Mayor of Leicester who also chairs Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM) said: “In the wake of the decision to cancel HS2, our message to the Government is simple and unequivocal – name the date for Midland Mainline electrification, sign the project off and switch on the East Midlands rail network.

“If we’re not proceeding with high-speed rail then we must upgrade our existing infrastructure as a matter of urgency. Midland Main Line will be able to offer a better service for more people on upgraded trains if the final stretch into the East Midlands is at last electrified.”

Sir Peter added: “We need to change Westminster’s attitude towards transport investment in the East Midlands. We receive too little, it takes too long, and the huge potential of our businesses and communities is not being fulfilled. This has to change if we’re to power up our future.”

As it stands, 80% of the environmental benefits of travelling by train instead of car can be lost due to the emissions from locomotives moving under diesel power. Diesel trains are also noisier, and impact air quality along the line and in stations.

East Midlands Councils has set out the case for Midland Mainline electrification in a new report called ‘The Future is Electric’. Produced by expert transport analysts, the report shows that:

  • Midland Main Line adds £450m a year to the economy
  • Passenger numbers on the line have more than doubled since the 1990s
  • Midland Main Line’s catchment is more densely populated than either West Coast or East Coast mainlines
  • But while they are fully electrified, Midland Main Line is not
  • Fully electric trains will be cheaper to operate, faster and more reliable
  • Midland Main Line’s diesel operations emit 48,000 tonnes of CO2 a year
  • Experience shows an electrification programme will benefit local jobs and businesses first

The push to speed up electrification of the Midland Main Line is being supported by East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, which represents thousands of firms across the region and is the biggest organisation of its type in the UK.

Its director of policy, Chris Hobson, said: “We cannot cancel our way to economic growth and we want to see government end years of uncertainty by committing to electrify the last leg of the Midland Main Line now. In the space of the last seven years, this project has been paused, cancelled and then revived. It needs to be delivered.

“We already have teams of engineers working to electrify the line as far as South Wigston in Leicestershire. At a time when government is concerned about funding, it would make absolute sense to electrify the next stage as soon as this work is completed so that we avoid the costs and delays involved in having to remobilise a specialist workforce.

“The decision to cancel HS2 has been a bitter blow for a region that has both rail engineering expertise and huge potential for expansion. Given the growth challenges our economy faces, we cannot afford to wait any longer for an investment that is long overdue – Midland Main Line electrification must happen now.”

Electrification of the final section of the Midland Main Line would also become part of a much wider electrically-powered rail corridor, joining up with government’s Network North plan for electrification of the Hope Valley Line between Manchester and Sheffield, the line between Leeds and Sheffield, and enhancements between Nottingham and Newark.

Sir Peter Soulsby said: “This isn’t just about the Midland Main Line finally receiving the investment it needs. It also makes strategic sense to upgrade the line so that it becomes part of a regional and national electrified rail network.”

Chesterfield rail train station

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Eco-friendly train launched in Chesterfield

Positive Traction has launched the UK’s first re-engineered battery-powered shunting locomotive.

The eco-friendly train is free from carbon and particulate emissions.

Invited guests from the Railfreight sector, UK government & local authorities as well as rolling stock owners attended the launch at  Barrow Hill Roundhouse in Chesterfield.

Alistair Gregory, Director of Positive Traction said: “Class 08 shunting locomotives have been the workhorses of ports, distribution centres and depots across Britain’s railway for over 60 years. As the UK moves towards Net Zero, diesel engines are increasingly unacceptable. To address this challenge, the 08e is a cost-effective battery-powered alternative for environmentally friendly facility operations.

“I’d like to thank all our partners for supporting our cleaner, greener UK transport vision, including Lithion Battery Inc. and Barrow Hill Limited.

Stagecoach Yorkshire and their partner Volvo, who supplied the latest electric Volvo BXL bus to bring guests from Chesterfield station to the launch in a  sustainable way.”

After the launch, the eco-friendly train will remain on test at Barrow Hill before moving to a customer site for operational evaluation.

Rail Innovation in Chesterfield

Chesterfield has a history of innovation and is located at the heart of the UK’s largest rail cluster.

This will continue at Barrow Hill with the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle, which will be built as part of the Staveley Town Deal.

The centre will provide 1,423 square metres of floor space, consisting of classroom and workshop training areas. Additionally, the centre will boast specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

DRIIVe will support a network of speciality training providers – offering rail-related education from level 2 through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses. These companies will also have access to the latest research and innovation.

Eco-friendly train e-o8 on track at Barrow Hill Roundhouse

The 08E locomotive created by Positive Traction

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield

Hartington Business Park already 66% let following recent launch to market

Hartington Business Park at Staveley, which completed a refurbishment in July, has already secured significant lettings since its launch to market in January this year.

Marketed by letting specialists Commercial Property Partners (CPP), alongside Knight Frank, on behalf of the Devonshire Property Group, interest to date in the brand new, terraced, industrial warehouse accommodation has been exceptionally strong, resulting in three of the units already snapped up with a fourth under offer – leaving just two available.

Ranging in size from 2,479 sq. ft up to 4,899 sq. ft, the units have been built to a shell specification allowing occupiers the flexibility to utilise the space for maximum business benefits. Office fit-out packages are also available from the landlord, if required.

The Hartington units, built with a steel portal frame and steel profile cladding, offer 6m clear height, secure concrete yards, EV charging points, full fibre broadband and ample parking spaces.

The Park is conveniently located on the northern edge of Staveley, five miles to the North East of Chesterfield. The site further benefits from easy access to the M1 via J30 and J29A, located just 3.5 miles and 2.5 miles away respectively.

CPP Senior Surveyor Max Pickering said: “Hartington Business Park has been built to a high specification and is in a great location for a range of commercial or industrial businesses looking to have a base in central Derbyshire.

“Its easy access to the M1 has garnered interest from a variety of would-be tenants and we are confident the remaining units will be occupied in the very near future.

“Its accessibility to a large skilled workforce within commuting distance of Chesterfield, Sheffield, Doncaster and Nottingham, has also been a strong pull for businesses looking to relocate.”

Commenting on the recent deals, Adam Mayfield, Property Development Surveyor at the Devonshire Property Group said, “We are delighted at the current appetite for Hartington Business Park, testament to a first-class build, fit out and premium location.

“Our thanks to the team at CPP for their support and expertise in securing the current deals and ongoing marketing.”

Find out more about locating your organisation in Chesterfield.

hartington business park

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Support for Chesterfield residents and businesses affected by flooding

Chesterfield’s businesses, organisations and community groups are working hard to support residents affected by flooding in recent days caused by Storm Babet.

Some residents and businesses had to evacuate their homes and premises due to the rising water levels on Friday.

Read more about some of the support and community fundrainsing efforts taking place across the town in our roundup below:

East Midlands Chamber offers support for affected businesses

The chamber of commerce’s information team, which can be contacted by calling 0333 320 0333, can provide advice to businesses – whether or not they are Chamber members – on what they can do and where support is available in their local area.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Major floods like we’ve seen during Storm Babet can cause huge anguish for business owners, but it’s important they know they aren’t alone and support is available.

“Our information team has already provided key advice to some businesses in our region since the floods hit at the end of last week, and we would urge anyone who would benefit from speaking to a friendly voice to get in touch.”

Some local authorities, including Derby City Council, have also asked employers in the area to encourage employees to work from home where possible to minimise traffic while a clean-up operation is carried out.

Scott added: “During an emergency like this, we are all in it together and there are small steps businesses may be able to take to offer their support, such as through encouraging staff to work from home, where this is possible, for a temporary period.

“It’s also important that all parties – such as local authorities, emergency services, central Government and other local stakeholders – co-ordinate effectively during the clean-up to help everyone get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

Fundraiser launched for residents affected by floods

Lifehouse church, based in the Brampton area has launched the appeal in partnership with Toby Perkins MP and local charities, agencies and businesses.

Hundreds of people in Chesterfield have been affected by the flooding over the weekend. Homes were flooded and businesses were forced to close due to the conditions.

Having already raised more than £25,000 over the weekend, the church is hoping to be able to provide food, clothing, supplies and the necessary essentials for those in need. A dedicated pot from the Church charity will seek to directly support families and homes that have been affected.

Church Pastor, Paul Hollingworth commented in a video posted by the church: “We are right in the heart of the community here in Brampton. The floods swept through the whole heart of the town and has had a huge impact on many people’s lives, not just today but for the months ahead.

“We’ve decided to do as much as we practically can today, by setting up a funding page which is going to help people with some of life’s necessities.”

Paul’s wife Sarah, also a Pastor with the church, said: “What we really want people to do is not only give, but to share, because the more people share it the wider the reach is. We have a £50,000 target and I’m really confident that we can smash that.”

Donate to the Appeal on the GoFundMe website.

Offers of Support from Chesterfield Champions

Wilkins Vardy offers temporary business premises

They have a double-width shop front on glumangate (our building was once two properties which we knocked through many years ago) and some offices on three floors, some of which are currently empty.
• They could possibly house part of a small business to sit along our normal office set up on their shop floor.
• They also have some empty space on the upper floors, with IT and telephone connectivity.
•Their shop front has digital displays, so we would be happy for business to use some of these to help with marketing!
You can contact Wilkins Vardy on 01246 270123

 

Paperclip offers 14 days free call answering support for businesses in Noth Derbyshire impacted by the flooding.

If you would be interested in this support please contact Lousie Bellwood at Paperclip on 01246 418181.

The Spire viewed from Old Whittington along Whittington Moor

 

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Why Chesterfield, Why Now? – Property and Construction firms highlight town’s investment prospects

Chesterfield, with its rich history and vibrant community, is not just a picturesque town with its unique Crooked Spire, but also a thriving hub undergoing a series of multi-million-pound regeneration projects.

Thanks to its strategic location in the centre of England alongside the M1 corridor with proximity to several major cities, Chesterfield has the ingredients that make it an enticing prospect for investors seeking growth and potential.

But don’t just take it from us, take it from the businesses which have invested here and call our town their home!

To coincide with the annual Chesterfield Investment Summit, we asked businesses in the town’s Property and Construction Group a simple question – Why Chesterfield, Why Now?

We think the responses below speak for themselves!

‘Tremendous support’

emily smith, holywell hotel by Voeberg

Emily Smith, Property Developer behind the highly anticipated Holywell Hotel by Voeberg said: “Chesterfield caught our attention initially due to its strategic location along the M1 and the opportunities for restoring and converting properties.

“The Council and local services have shown us tremendous support for our projects, which makes it an exciting place to be investing. Chesterfield’s unique local charm and welcoming community make it an ideal place to create something new to meet a growing market demand.

“It’s a town where you feel the warmth of support, and investing here has been a truly positive experience.”

‘Experienced workforce’

roy peters estates

Roy Peters Estates have been active in Chesterfield since the early 1970s and have seen many changes in our Market Town during the last 50 years. The company offers a locally focused letting and management service.

Emma Gallagher, Director, Office Manager and Head of Commercial Operations has seen a marked increase in quality retail and office instructions over the last six months.

She said: “Chesterfield is centrally located and remains a busy market town with a good retail offering and access to an experienced workforce.”

‘Thriving business landscape’

FI Real Estate Management is the company behind the recent £2 million refurbishment at The HQ in Chesterfield.

Tim Knowles, founder and Managing Director of FI Real Estate Management (FIREM), commented: “We have seen first hand the positive impact that our investment has had on Chesterfield.

“We’re passionate about putting Chesterfield on the map as a great place to work, improving its offering in line with nearby cities and enriching the lives of the local business community.

“Further investment is vital to ensuring the town continues to grow and develop in line with neighbouring cities, such as Sheffield and Nottingham, making Chesterfield a thriving business landscape for all.”

‘Excellent location’

Richard Hinds, hbd

HBD’s successful Markham Vale scheme continues to be developed alongside Derbyshire County Council. The project, off J29a of the M1 has ensured new premises for dozens of businesses and thousands of jobs for local people.

Richard Hinds, Senior Development Manager at HBD, said: “Chesterfield is an excellent place to do business, demonstrated by the huge success of our Markham Vale scheme. The development is now home to more than 78 businesses and has created over 2,700 new jobs.

“Chesterfield not only benefits from an excellent location at the heart of the UK transport network, but offers a strong local labour market, supporting companies as they continue to grow.

“HBD is pleased to invest in Chesterfield and look forward to progressing the expansion of Markham Vale, providing more high-quality industrial and logistics space to meet occupier demand.”

‘Extremely welcoming’

Phil Dalton Roofing

Dalton Roofing provides residential and industrial roofing solutions to people and businesses across the area.

Speaking about locating his business in the town, Philip Dalton, Owner of Dalton Roofing said: “I moved my business to Chesterfield in 2018, after running my business from Sheffield for 28 years, as you can imagine, this was a big change for me.

“Not only did I move my business, but I also moved my family to live in Chesterfield and I can honestly say I have never looked back.

“The location is fabulous, being close to the M1 and the Peak district, we feel central to all the areas that we cover.  The business community are extremely welcoming and offer great business support.  Chesterfield is up and coming and full of future potential.”

‘Training for tomorrow’s workforce’

Lime Living Jamie Wajs

Lime Living is an estate agency which recently expanded into new premises at The Glassyard.

Jamie Wajs, owner of Lime Living commented: “Our town is the ideal location, with it being very placed for excellent access to the M1 network, direct train links to London and other nearby major cities.

“We also have Chesterfield College and the University of Derby Campus providing education and training for tomorrow’s workforce. Not only is our town able to train and retain a business’s workforce through exceptional facilities and resources, but it can attract employees too, through the welcoming community living our town offers.

“For me, it is a no brainer for businesses to invest in our town! There is an excellent access to a wide range of local support networks and we also have a wide variety of commercial property. This ranges from land & new build, warehouses & industrial, business parks to Grade A offices, meaning our town provides excellent opportunity, whether it be a new start up, expansion, relocation or modern hybrid working hubs.”

‘A refreshing level of cohesiveness’

Investment Chesterfield Harworth Group

Harworth Group has acquired a 133-acre stalled brownfield site in Staveley, and is now bringing forward exciting plans to deliver 600 new homes, extensive green space and other amenities.

Joanne Neville, Head of Regional Planning at Harworth commented: “We have found all local partners to be engaging and responsive as we work with adjacent landowners to develop this important site.

“We have seen a real commitment from all local partners to promote the economic growth of the town, for example in the development of the Chesterfield & Staveley Regeneration Route, demonstrating a refreshing level of cohesiveness between the public and private sector. Chesterfield is definitely open for business.”

‘Great proximity to major road networks’

Chesterfield Champions - Jason Evans Mascot Management

Mascot Management has worked on several projects in Chesterfield recently, including The Glassyard and 33 new homes in Duckmanton. Jason Evans, Director at Mascot Management said: “I see the quality of life in Chesterfield as an important factor in attracting talent and investors.

Key factors like the lower cost of living, friendly residents and businesses, good access to cultural amenities, and the open countryside of the nearby Peak District make Chesterfield a great place.

“It has established industrial clusters, and business parks that benefit from being in the heart of the country with great proximity to all the major road networks, including the M1 motorway. This makes Chesterfield an attractive place for people to access, live and work”.

‘A great living environment’

Hannah Rutter Redbrik estate agents Chesterfield

Redbrik Estate Agents recently found in a study that Google searches had significantly increased showing interest in Chesterfield homes.

Hannah Rutter, Property Consultant at Redbrik commented: “The proximity to the Peaks make for a great living environment and offers ease of access to the countryside for their employees during their free time.

“Chesterfield is a fantastically efficient commuting hub for their business and staff with Sheffield, Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Leeds and Leicester all being within a 90 minute journey. A wonderful town with a great blend of character and modern, from the Crooked Spire to Casa Hotel.”

Want to find out more about how Chesterfield can provide the perfect location for your business base? Head over to our Invest in Chesterfield page.

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

BHP announces 79 promotions across its office network

BHP, an accountancy firm based at Chesterfield’s flagship One Waterside Place office development, has announced 79 promotions across its office network in the North Derbyshire and Yorkshire region.

The promotions cover Chesterfield, Sheffield, Leeds, York and Cleckheaton, spaning a range of departments and including recognition across accountancy, management and director positions.

BHP is an independent firm of chartered accountants in Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, which acts for for many of the leading SMEs in the Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire area; providing high quality assurance, advisory, corporate finance and tax services.

The news follows the recent appointment of 44 new trainees as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to investing in future talent. The latest cohort is the second highest for BHP’s training scheme, which provides an opportunity for those looking to break into the finance industry to gain hands-on experience while studying for a professional qualification. Read more about the trainee scheme here.

Karen Arch, Director of People at BHP, said: “These promotions are thoroughly deserved and a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all those involved.

“We’re committed to developing our people and supporting them in all aspects of their working life at BHP. These are key reasons why one in three of our employees have been with us for more than six years.”

Lisa Leighton, Joint CEO, said: “The 79 promotions not only represent the quality of our people but also the confidence we have as a business as we continue to fulfil our ambition of being the firm of choice for owner managed businesses across the North.

“Our people are vital to our success, and we’re proud to have been able to make 104 promotions across the business this year.”

Find out more about the wide range of high quality and well-connected office space available in Chesterfield.

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

BHP;business;WatersidePlace

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Trustees sought to drive forward Barrow Hill Memorial Hall refurbishment

Barrow Hill Community Trust is searching for new volunteer trustees to help support the delivery of a major project to refurbish Barrow Hill Memorial Hall.

The Trust is the community development charity for the village of Barrow Hill and surrounding neighbourhoods. With around £1.8 million of funding through the Staveley Town Deal and National Heritage Lottery Fund, the trust will be refurbishing the historic Memorial Hall to create a new community hub where local people can access a variety of essential support services and socialise together.

Simon Redding, Chair of the Barrow Hill Community Trust, said: “This is a really exciting time for the entire community, our ambitious plans will help create stronger connections in the community and ensure local residents can access the support they need.

“We’re looking for trustees who can spare some of their time to help steer the delivery of this project and ensure we can maximise the benefits for residents.”

The Trust is particularly keen to hear from potential trustees who have experience in capital project management, finance, or communications.

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall was gifted to the community in 1920 by Charles Paxton Markham as community war memorial that could be used to support the local community.

In 2024 it will be 100 years since the Deed of Trust was approved and to mark the centenary the Trust aims to refurbish the building to serve the community whilst honouring its legacy and past.

Plans for the refurbished hall are extensive including new community spaces, enhanced facilities for young people and children, provision for medical facilities, and classroom space.

Barrow Hill Community Trust recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality, and challenges and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Please e-mail info@barrowhill.community to express your interest.

For more information about the trust and the refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall, visit: www.barrowhill.community

Find out more about the multi-million pound Town Deal projects set to transform Staveley and surrounding areas.

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall Image

Artist’s impression – Barrow Hall Memorial Hall refurbishment

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Whittam Cox Architects recognised in this year’s Building Top 150

For the eighth consecutive year, Chesterfield’s Whittam Cox Architects has secured its spot in the prestigious Top 50 UK Architects and Top 150 UK Consultants rankings.

Each year, the renowned industry publication ‘Building’ conducts a comprehensive survey of consultants from all disciplines throughout the UK to compile a league table showcasing the country’s top consulting firms.

This survey covers a range of aspects, including financial performance, workforce size, and opinions on market conditions, skills, and the future prospects for the industry. This year, Whittam Cox achieved a ranking of 27 out of the top 50 architect practices, marking a significant advancement from our 40th position last year.

The company says this year’s Top 150 Consultants survey paints an encouraging picture of increased optimism and greater stability. Nevertheless, there remains a notable degree of caution and uncertainty primarily stemming from the continued influence of the macroeconomic climate, which poses ongoing challenges to the construction industry.

Other key concerns highlighted by consultants included staffing issues with attracting and retaining talent, geopolitical events, the impending impact of the Building Safety Act, the ever-pressing issue of climate change, and the accessibility of funding – all playing pivotal roles in shaping our industry’s landscape.

Commenting on the latest milestone, Whittam Cox Board Director Nick Riley said: “This is very positive progression for us, and a reflection of the talent and dedication of colleagues across our entire practice; it’s great to be recognised externally again. Looking ahead, despite obvious headwinds, we remain optimistic about the industry and the sectors we operate in, and our continued evolution as a business.”

The company plays an active role in Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group. Chaired by Whittam Cox’s Andy Dabbs, the group helps to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within the town.

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

 

Andy Dabbs

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Superior Wellness Managing Director recognised among the most ambitious business leaders in the UK

Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness Ltd has been named one of The LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2023.

Created by trusted investment partner LDC – part of Lloyds Banking Group, and supported by The Times, The LDC Top 50 champions the business leaders who are pushing for growth and building successful medium-sized businesses.

This year’s nominations were of an exceptionally high calibre and the competition was fierce, showcasing the drive and determination that unites business leaders across the UK.

The leaders featured in The LDC Top 50 are growing their businesses at home and overseas, making a positive contribution to society and driving progress against their sustainability goals. They hail from every corner of the UK and span every sector of the economy. Together, they employ more than 6,700 people and turn over more than £1.2bn.

Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest-growing hot tub manufacturer with a vision to be the world’s market leader in hot tub and swim spas. With a network of 250 plus partners in more than 20 countries globally, sales increased by £48m in 2021 to £57m in 2022.  The level of growth that the business has experienced since launching in 2011 is commendable. This has been achieved through hard work, dedication and the direction of Rob.

Rob Carlin has been a driving force in the wellness industry since 2011. With his exemplary leadership and innovative vision, he has propelled Superior Wellness to become one of the leading hot tub companies in the world.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Superior Wellness Ltd said: “I am delighted to be included in this year’s UK Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2023.  Under my leadership I have expanded the portfolio of brands, reached out to prospects to grow the network and created a strong presence in the industry. I have also fostered a culture of innovation and creativity within the team.

“I always want to be moving forward and to improve as a company. I’m not happy sitting still.”

John Garner, Managing Partner at LDC, added: “We started The LDC Top 50 six years ago to champion the remarkable success stories of medium-sized businesses, the unsung heroes of the British economy. Since then, we’ve received more than 3,000 nominations and celebrated more than 500 business leaders through the programme, surpassing all our expectations. Every leader in this year’s cohort has a story as impressive as the next, and I’d like to congratulate them on their achievements so far. We can’t wait to see where they go from here!”

Find out more about business in Chesterfield.

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

rob carlin superior wellness

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