Development

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, 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

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

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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Figures revealed at annual Investment Summit show new businesses are booming in Chesterfield

Official figures presented today at the Chesterfield Investment Summit show record levels of startups setting up in the Chesterfield area, alongside substantial growth in the town’s visitor economy and construction sectors. Survival rates for companies in Chesterfield far exceed the national average.

New business activity in Chesterfield, Derbyshire’s largest town, reached record levels in 2022 and is expected to grow again this year, according to figures shared today at the Chesterfield Investment Summit. Analysis of Companies House data, the official register of UK companies, shows that 1,021 startups with Chesterfield addresses were registered in 2022, 4% more than in 2021, and indicates the area is on track to create over 1,100 more businesses in 2023.

Analysis from Destination Chesterfield – the organisation responsible for promoting investment in the town – shows strong levels of new business activity in several sectors prioritised in Chesterfield Borough Council’s growth strategy, as well as encouraging signs for the town’s independent retail sector:

  • 92 new hospitality companies were launched in Chesterfield during 2022, a 10% increase on 2021 (84) and more than three times the number (29) created in 2012. Hospitality is a crucial component of Chesterfield’s growing visitor economy, which attracted 3.7 million people in 2022 (20% more than 2021), according to Chesterfield Borough Council. The visitor economy supports over 2,000 full-time jobs in Chesterfield and was worth £207 million last year.
  • 106 new professional services companies were created in Chesterfield during 2022, an increase of 29% on 2021 (82). They include 27 management consulting companies, 22 engineering advisory firms and 12 advertising and digital media specialists. Chesterfield is actively encouraging professional services firms to locate to the town to help achieve a 15% increase in higher-skill, higher-wage knowledge-based occupations for residents by 2030.
  • 99 construction startups were established in Chesterfield in 2022, 10% more than 2021 (90) and 55% higher than 2012 (64). Data from Chesterfield Borough Council shows the number of new homes built in Chesterfield has more than doubled over the last decade to reach 373 completions in the year to April 2023. Chesterfield has exceeded its new build target in each of the last four years and the council has earmarked several prime locations for new residential development as part of plans to build more than 4,000 new homes by 2035.
  • 124 retail and wholesale startups began trading in Chesterfield in 2022. Although this was down 5% on 2021 figures, it represents a 49% improvement over the last decade and is expected to grow to more than 150 in 2023. The number was driven, in part, by a threefold increase in online retail startups over the last decade. Entrepreneurs in Chesterfield launched 23 e-commerce companies in 2022 and are on track to create over 40 more during 2023.

Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “New business activity is booming in Chesterfield, which is seeing growth from homegrown startups and those relocating to the town from elsewhere.These outcomes are the fruits of a purposeful strategy to secure new business investment in Chesterfield and help our existing businesses to grow.”

Dr Huw Bowen - Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council

“Chesterfield Borough Council is supporting, either through direct investment or public-private partnerships, a series of projects to provide high-quality commercial space for businesses. It has helped bring to market almost 300,000 square feet of modern office, industrial, manufacturing and logistics space since the start of 2022, and expects further new premises totalling more than one million square feet to become available by the middle of 2025.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, comments: “Chesterfield is growing thanks to its location, its supportive community, the incredible lifestyle you can enjoy here, and the investments that are being made in high-quality business space and housing. We’ve seen more interest from local and incoming entrepreneurs post-pandemic, who are creating new jobs and opportunities for the abundant talent pool Chesterfield can access, and we expect that growth to continue as the town seizes new opportunities associated with the East Midlands devolution deal over the coming years.”

peter swallow speaking at Celebrate

Official figures also show that businesses based in Chesterfield consistently enjoy significantly higher survival rates than the national average. The latest data from the Office of National Statistics show that 62% of Chesterfield companies started in 2018 were still trading after three years, compared to 54% for all of the UK. Similar figures were recorded for businesses founded in 2016 and 2017.

More than 200 delegates, including domestic and commercial property investors and business leaders from the UK, attended the Chesterfield Investment Summit today. The Summit is organised by Destination Chesterfield and sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and Turner & Townsend.

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.

spire drone 1

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

North East Derbyshire firms urged to take up support for growth, innovation and decarbonisation

How to grow, sustain, innovate and decarbonise are top of the agenda for an innovative new programme being launched in North East Derbyshire.

The Accelerator project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and East Midlands Chamber.

It signals a new era of local place-based support for districts like North East Derbyshire and will help local businesses to improve productivity through innovation and digital technology, reduce energy costs through decarbonisation and moving towards net zero, and grow through a robust business plan and strategy.

The Accelerator project offers:

  • Net Zero support to help businesses at any stage of their sustainability journey to reduce the cost of their energy bills and improve energy efficiencies. Training and 1-2-1 consultancy will be offered on a range of subjects including waste management and Investors in the Environment, also supporting businesses to develop comprehensive energy audits and de-carbonisation plans.
  • Innovation and R&D support from Innovation and Technology Specialists to help high-growth and scale-up businesses adopt digital technologies and take advantage of national programmes such as Innovate UK EDGE and Made Smarter.
  • Action planning workshops with expert trainers on a range of topics including Finance, HR, Digital Marketing and Sales.
  • Access to finance and specialised consultancy through growth vouchers and grants.
  • Networks for collaboration with fellow businesses including through the national Help to Grow: Management Course and the East Midlands Manufacturing Network which invites North East Derbyshire businesses to attend forums in Derby and in other key locations across the East Midlands.

Businesses are invited to hear about support on offer at the North East Derbyshire Accelerator launch event, taking place on Friday, 27th October 2023 at Coney Green Business Park, Clay Cross. Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, will present on the range of Accelerator support available, and explain how businesses can register to join the project and secure their free training workshop places.

Councillor Jayne Barry, North East Derbyshire District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Growth & Assets, said: “The new Accelerator Programme is a wonderful opportunity for businesses across North East Derbyshire to take their business to the next level – whether that be in terms of growth, developing new processes, adopting new technologies or tackling their energy costs.

“Knowing where to start can, however, be a real challenge. The package of specialist support and guidance on offer from East Midlands Chamber will, I’m sure, be invaluable to businesses seeking to inject new energy into their operations.

“I encourage anyone who would like to hear more about the exciting opportunities available through the Accelerator Programme to join our launch event on 27th October at Coney Green Business Centre.”

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, added: “The Accelerator project will help businesses across North East Derbyshire to improve their operations in a number of areas. Chamber business advisers are on hand to help businesses develop a business strategy to help achieve key objectives such as driving efficiencies and productivity, developing a decarbonisation plan, and becoming more sustainable.

“As well as one-to-one business adviser support, businesses have the opportunity to sign-up for a series of action planning workshops which significantly boost key skills within their teams.”

Businesses wishing to learn more about the Accelerator project in North East Derbyshire can do so by signing up to the 27th October event or visiting the programme at: www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk/accelerator and choosing North East Derbyshire as their district.

Find out more about the range of support available to businesses in Chesterfield and surrounding areas at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Two people shaking hands

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Inspire Design’s Lee Barnes takes the reigns for Clay Cross Town Board

The Clay Cross Town Board has announced the appointment of Lee Barnes to the position of Chair.

The Managing Director of Clay Cross-based Inspire Design Group, Lee is an existing Board Member and is one of several private sector representatives on the Board.

Lee will head all future Clay Cross Town Board meetings, which oversee the delivery and progress of the Clay Cross Town Deal.

Clay Cross residents can take comfort in knowing the future of their town is in capable hands. As a North East Derbyshire resident and Clay Cross business owner, Lee has a breadth of professional experience in revitalising urban areas and guiding multi-disciplinary teams, with a strong commitment to seeing the town thrive.

As Chair, Lee plans to take Clay Cross’ local business scene to new heights for its residents stating, “I’ve got a really interesting journey ahead of me as Chair. I aim to make the most of this wonderful opportunity to help breathe new life into Clay Cross.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to move the town forward together, bringing new job opportunities, and more places to eat and drink and spend leisure time. As a resident myself, I am passionate about getting the best offer for us and am excited to lead us into the next phase of the Town Deal.”

So far, projects announced as part of the Clay Cross Town Deal include the regeneration of the town’s high street, along with a refurbishment of the Sharley Park Leisure Centre, which will be renamed Clay Cross Active.

Lee is also a member of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group, which aims to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield.

Another town in our area which has benefitted from town deal funding is Staveley. Find out more about the range of projects taking place in the town here.

For more information on why Chesterfield is an excellent location to invest in your business, head over to our Invest In Chesterfield page.

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

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