Development

New eye hospital to reduce waiting times in Chesterfield

A state-of-the-art eye care hospital is set to open in Chesterfield, and promises to reduce waiting times for patients in our area.

The SpaMedica clinic, which can be found just outside the town centre on Spire Walk, Derby Road, specialises in NHS cataract surgery and will reduce the waiting time to just four to eight weeks from referral, compared to a national target of 18 weeks.

The new hospital has already created a variety of clinical, administrative and operational jobs for the local community, and will help to meet rising demand for treating the sight-stealing condition, with the number of people living with sight loss expected to increase by 20% by 2032.

SpaMedica’s Chesterfield clinic is the second within the county, with the other being based nearby in Derby.

Around 21% of the Derbyshire population is aged over 65 – some 223,000 residents. With approximately 30% of over 65s believed to live with a cataract that impairs their vision, up to 67,000 people in Derbyshire could be affected.

Hospital manager Kirsty Hardy said: “We have a fantastic new facility in Chesterfield and can’t wait to help patients from across Derbyshire get back to doing the hobbies and activities they love – like reading and driving – as soon as possible.

“We know that cataracts can have a major impact on people’s ability to live life to its fullest, so working in partnership with the NHS to reduce waiting times for surgery means a lot to us.

“Many people in England don’t realise that they have the right to choose where they have their cataract treatment. All they need to do is ask their optician or GP to refer them to their hospital of choice.

“Our Chesterfield hospital is easy to get to by car or public transport – and we offer a free door-to-door transport service for patients if they need it, too.”

If you’re looking for a perfect location and quality of life for you and your family, look no further than Chesterfield. Find out more about living in our town here.

SpaMedica Chesterfield team

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

East Midlands Mayor meets new Prime Minister to discuss devolution

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has been Downing Street with the country’s regional mayors to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to discuss more powers and funding for the East Midlands.

Mayor Claire attended a high-level roundtable for UK Mayors as the government announced it was setting up a council for regions and nations to support a drive to loosen Westminster’s “tight grip” over big cities and regions.

The Prime Minister said: “I’m a great believer in the idea that those with skin in the game – those that know their communities – make much better decisions.”

The government has said it wants to give more power to the regions, recognising the part regions like the East Midlands have to play in delivering economic growth – a central pledge by the new government.

Mayor Claire said: “It’s the beginning of a new era for our villages, towns and cities. After years of languishing at the bottom of every funding league table, the East Midlands will finally get the investment it deserves. I wholeheartedly welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to giving our communities more of a say on some of the most important issues.

“I think it’s significant that the roundtable took place so early in the government’s first week in charge. Both the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister understand that mayors are uniquely placed to make the best decisions for the places we serve and know that we can lead the drive for growth across the country.

“It was, of course, a thrill to be in Downing Street and make the case for our great region. There are many challenges ahead, but I’m confident we’ll have great support from the government to make our region the best place to live, to work and to learn.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an ideal location to base your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Claire Ward and regional mayors stood in front of London bus

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

Award wins for Chesterfield’s new Emergency Department

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Emergency Department continues to receive accolades, this time with a ‘highly commended’ at the Constructing Excellence East Midlands awards.

The ceremony recognises exceptional and innovative designs that have made a positive social impact.

Officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 12 July last year, the £27m state-of-the-art Emergency Department was shortlisted in two separate categories in the East Midlands region: Integration and Collaborative Working, and Building Project of the Year.

Constructing Excellence is a membership organisation that exists to drive a better construction sector and an improved built environment through innovation, best practice and collaboration.

The awards, which are judged by a panel of industry experts, are designed to showcase how organisations are living the Constructing Excellence principles.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “We are delighted to receive this award, alongside our construction partners – DSFS and IHP (the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine). A lot of hard work and dedication went into the build of our ED, and it is a good example of putting our patients at the centre of everything we do.

“With an innovative approach to patient flow, highly specialised equipment, ultra-modern technology and a fresh and bright interior – even using locally sourced artwork. We are very proud of our exceptional ED and equally proud of all the people who work in the department to look after our patients.”

This is not the first time Chesterfield’s ED has won an award – it also scoped the ‘Best Interior Design category’ in the national ‘Building Better Healthcare Awards’ in November 2023.

Adrian Leigh, Senior Project Manager for Integrated Health Projects (the Trust’s construction partner), said: “It is real kudos for us and the Trust to have been shortlisted for an award by Constructing Excellence East Midlands.

“The fact that we have been highlighted for Integration and Collaborative Working is a positive reflection on the close working relationship between all partners involved, to create this unique construction.

“From involving the people that would be working in the new ED to the people using it, getting this award one year on from delivery is amazing validation for all the hard work that went into making Chesterfield’s ED the best it could be.”

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

HRH Princess Royal opening new emergency department

HRH The Princess Royal opening Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s new Emergency Department.

 

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

New EV charging hub to open in the centre of Chesterfield

An ultra-rapid EV charging hub is set to open within just a few minutes’ walk of Chesterfield’s historic marketplace.

Residents and visitors in the town will benefit from a new eight-bay charging station, which will be situated off Saltergate.

The new charging hub has been installed by Be.EV, and is set to launch this Friday with a special half price offer for its app users.

The ultra-rapid chargers, which Be.EV says are the fastest in Chesterfield, can add up to 165 miles of range in a short 20-minute stop (compared to several hours on a 7kW fast charger).

Switched on and available for use, the Chesterfield hub joins the north’s largest public EV charging network that connects communities nationwide.

Chesterfield has nearly 3,500 EVs, and the installation will help accelerate the EV transition in the town, and for the wider Midlands region. This is one of Be.EV’s first charging sites in the region, and the charging network already operates over 700 charge points nationwide.

Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, says: ”We’re very pleased to bring ultra-rapid, ultra-convenient EV charging to Chesterfield and to have expanded our network in the Midlands.

“We’re on a mission to roll out reliable chargers to communities nationwide that need them, and this location will provide market-goers and local residents with future-proofed, ultra-rapid charging.

“The UK needs to transition to cleaner transport, and ensuring we have the infrastructure to support this shift is critical to our environmental goals.

“Other landowners and local authorities should take note. As more and more people choose to drive EVs, they’ll naturally gravitate to destinations where they can conveniently charge their car whilst shopping.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “The opening of the new charging hub on Saltergate is welcome news for our town, as residents and businesses look to make more sustainable choices.

“Having this site in the town centre will give EV users the opportunity to pop into local shops, cafes and restaurants too, providing a boost to our high street businesses.”

For those wanting to use the site, its full address is 85 Saltergate, Chesterfield, S40 1JR.

During last month’s World Environment Day, businesses in Chesterfield’s network of Chesterfield Champions showcased how they are transitioning to a more sustainable future. Find out more here. 

Car on charge at BE EV charging site, saltergate

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

New strategy approved to meet housing needs in Chesterfield

A new three-year strategy – which outlines how Chesterfield Borough Council will ensure all local residents have access to a quality home that meets their needs – has been approved.

The strategy sets out the council’s housing ambitions from 2024 to 2027 for housing of all tenures across the borough – with the aim of ensuring that everyone in the community can access good quality, affordable and well managed homes.

The new strategy has been developed in line with consultation feedback received from tenants, residents and elected members.

It sets out the programme of activities and initiatives that the council will deliver over the next three years and identifies seven key priorities for the housing service to focus on:

  • Continuing to deliver more homes by building more properties
  • Providing homes that are affordable
  • Investing in and improving the quality of existing homes
  • Climate change and decarbonisation
  • Following legislation set out in the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023
  • The provision of specialist and supported accommodation
  • Tackling homelessness and rough sleeping

Stancliffe homes construction building

Councillor Jean Innes, cabinet member for housing, said: “We understand that a home is much more than just bricks and mortar and our new housing strategy highlights how we can improve the range of homes available across the borough and help to improve the lives of local people.

“The strategy does not just focus on council properties. It also highlights how we are going to work with all of our residents to ensure they can access quality accommodation that meets their needs.

“The strategy has been developed at what continues to be a challenging time for local government, as well as for our communities – as we all face the impact of rising inflation, the increased cost of living, the legacy of the pandemic, and greater demand for housing services both locally and nationally.

“But despite this challenging context we remain determined in our commitment to ensure everyone in our borough can access an affordable and quality home and our newly adopted strategy sets out how we will achieve this.

“We really value the thoughts of our local residents and partners and are always looking for ways that they can have their say and help to shape our services. That is why we wanted to consult with them on the new strategy and have taken their feedback on board to make sure that it focuses on the most relevant issues which will allow us to make the greatest impact over the next three years.”

The strategy has a strong role to play in helping the council reach its target of becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2050, by establishing plans to decarbonise its own housing stock and support the decarbonisation of the borough’s private sector housing stock.

As well as ensuring its own stock meets the government’s Decent Homes Standard, the council will also enforce conditions in the private rented sector to ensure that private landlords supply good quality, healthy and safe private rented properties.

The full strategy is available to view at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/housing-strategy

badger croft chesterfield

Living in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is centrally located in the heart of England with close proximity to the Peak District National Park and several major UK cities.

Did you know our town is rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands? Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Grandma, mum and kids reading a book together in the garden

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

GCL Products Ltd announces partnership with Spanish stone supplier

Chesterfield-based building solutions company, GCL Products Ltd has announced a new partnership with Téseris Stone, becoming an official stockist of their products in the United Kingdom.

The collaboration aims to enhance the construction and aesthetic quality across residential and commercial properties, as well as improving the availability of much-desired Spanish marble in the UK market.

Téseris Stone is a Spanish company renowned for its high-quality marble and stone products. Specialising in the extraction, processing, and distribution of natural stone, Téseris Stone offers a diverse range of products that cater to various construction and design needs.

By partnering with Téseris Stone, GCL Products Ltd is now able to offer a variety of top-tier marble and stone options sourced from some of the finest quarries in Spain. Téseris Stone is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation, with each stone product meeting rigorous standards. This partnership will enable architects, developers, and homeowners access to a broader range of premium materials for their surfacing needs.

Fergus Slack, Managing Director of GCL Products Ltd. commented: “We are excited to team up with Téseris Stone, known for their exquisite stone products. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing our clients with high-quality, durable materials that not only meet but exceed their surfacing requirements.

“Our customers can now enjoy more variety and higher quality in their choice of materials for resin bound projects.”

The business is a member of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group, which brings together organisation across the sector to raise the profile of our town. The group regularly holds events and discussions to share best practice around quality, sustainability, skills and other issues affecting the property sector.

Find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

 

Teseris stone GCL Products 873

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

Chesterfield business leaders react to Labour’s general election win

The Chair of Destination Chesterfield and the Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber have both given their views on the general election result.

This morning, it has been confirmed that the Labour Party will govern the country after securing a large majority in the commons.

Reacting to this morning’s news, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to the new Prime Minister, and to all candidates who took part in the election campaign.

“Countless hours of work go into campaigning ahead of a general election, ensuring voters are well informed of each party’s priorities.

“A change in leadership for the country will mean potential new opportunities for Chesterfield, as we look forward to unlocking further investment for our region.

“Recent regeneration projects which have taken place across Chesterfield show that partnership working between the public and private sectors are vital to boosting growth and jobs. Therefore, we are eager to continue this collaboration with the government to put forward Chesterfield’s case for further growth and investment in the future.”

peter swallow speaking at Celebrate

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber also reiterated the fact that government must play its part in unlocking economic growth for the region.

He said: “Business wants the best outcomes that will remove barriers to economic growth in the East Midlands and we look forward to hearing the new Government’s plans as soon as possible.

“Government’s purpose is to create an economic environment that allows businesses to invest, to create and sustain jobs – and then to get out of the way to allow business to thrive. That’s what the business community needs for growth in the East Midlands and we stand ready to advise and hold the new government to account at both national and regional level to ensure that enacting the needs of our region’s businesses is top of the list.

“Business currency is confidence – confidence means growth, investment into people, plant and machinery and digital transformation. Our Manifesto for Growth sets out what businesses in the East Midlands need across the areas of Investment, Innovation, International Trade and Infrastructure. We’ve presented it to Westminster; it’s ready for the new government to get on with and I urge its implementation.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is ideally located to be the base for your business.

Scott Knowles

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

 

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

Whittam Cox Architects secures place in prestigious top 100 list

Chesterfield-based Whittam Cox has secured a place in a prestigious listing, which highlights the UK’s top 100 architectural practices.

The firm says its placing in the AJ100 list is a testament to the team’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence in design and innovation.

Over the past year, Whittam Cox has continued to make significant progress as a practice contributing to its position in the rankings.

Nick Riley, Board Director at Whittam Cox, commented: “We are incredibly pleased to see our progress reflected in the AJ100 rankings. This recognition is a testament to our dedicated team and the collaborative efforts with our clients and partners.

“We are particularly proud of our continued work across all sectors, from large-scale urban regenerations to nationwide retail rollouts. The launch of our new business plan and our ongoing focus on creating the best environment for our employees, along with the introduction of our ‘Progressive by Design’ initiative, underscore our commitment to forward-thinking and sustainable design.”

The AJ100, compiled by the Architect’s Journal, is the definitive list of the top architectural practices in the UK. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the market and highlights emerging trends within the industry.

Whilst the work of Whittam Cox takes the company and its staff around the entire UK, its focus and impact in Chesterfield are of equal importance to the organisation. Supporting local communities, economy and built environment is something the company is passionate about. Whittam Cox has been involved in recent projects such as the Chesterfield Station Masterplan, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, Chesterfield Waterside and many others.

The company is also a member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, which Whittam Cox Director Andy Dabbs currently chairs.

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.

Whittam Cox architects team

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

Forge Bakehouse opens tasty new location in Chesterfield town centre

A new bakery and cafe is opening its doors in Chesterfield town centre, offering artisan breads, pastries and more tasty treats.

Sheffield’s Forge Bakehouse is continuing its expansion with the launch of a new location in The Pavements Shopping Centre.

Forge Bakehouse already has shops and cafes in Sheffield’s Abbeydale, Beauchief, Lodge Moor and Dronfield as well as an outlet at the Forum in Sheffield city centre and at Sheffield Station.

Having achieved success in the city, the bakery has invested in a new location here in Chesterfield.

“Having established ourselves successfully in Sheffield, we felt the time was right for expansion and recognised there is demand for our range of products in North East Derbyshire,” said Forge Bakehouse owner Liva Guest.

“The core of our success is the continued use of the finest quality ingredients and a team of fantastic chefs, bakers and baristas.

“Dronfield proved extremely popular with customers as soon as we opened at the Civic Centre and Chesterfield is just as successful.

“Chesterfield is such a vibrant and welcoming traditional shopping centre and our visitors are already enjoying the opportunity to call in at Forge Bakehouse for a break.

“The location we have selected within the Pavements Shopping Centre is convenient and extremely attractive and makes a welcome addition to our portfolio.”

Forge Bakehouse produces an acclaimed range of artisan breads, pastries, sandwiches and savouries at its Abbeydale bakery which are sold through the company’s shops and are also available for weddings, corporate events, markets and meetings.

The cafes have also established a strong reputation for their range of coffees and teas, with a team of experiences baristas making regular innovative additions to their offer.

At the same time, the addition of new savoury lines like the Forge Bakehouse melted cheese croissant has increased the brand’s popularity as both an eat-in and take-out destination.

To find out more about Forge Bakehouse and its full range of products and services visit www.forgebakehouse.co.uk

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, stated: “We are excited to see Forge Bakehouse investing in our town centre. Chesterfield is an excellent location for investment, offering a vibrant community, a deep historical heritage, and great connectivity.

“The town’s blend of modern conveniences and traditional charm creates a perfect environment for businesses to succeed and develop.”

Chesterfield is home to many independent cafes, restaurants and bars serving up a range of cuisines and tasty treats. Find out more about eating out in our town here. 

Exterior of bakery in shopping centre with yellow signage

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

Investment success for FHP across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

FHP Property Consultants has reported a strong first half of the year in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, with strong demand for its sites and properties across the area.

The company says it has seen a high amount of interest, particularly between Junctions 29 and 30 of the M1 motorway.

The office agency team has been dealing with a number of good quality enquiries which has led to the letting of 12,000ft² at Holmewood Business Park, Holmewood, a modern office park approximately 4 miles south east of Chesterfield. The 12,000 sq ft development comprises two lettings, one to Rutland UK , and the second to Harmony Fire who have several offices located across the country. Both businesses have committed to new 5 year terms and chose this location due to the connectivity to the M1.

FHP says there is one remaining office building at Holmewood Business Park comprising 5,267 sq ft, for which it already has strong interest, and the company believes it will be able to declare this “under offer” within the next couple of weeks.

The office team also has 6,000 sq ft “under offer” in Barlborough, just off Junction 30 which is due to complete any week with terms also out on an additional 12,000 sq ft office building in this location.

Darran Severn, Director at FHP Property Consultants commented: “It’s been hard work but pleasing we are seeing some of the deals we agreed earlier in the year completing. We are finding that enquiry levels are consistent and in some of these locations it’s a matter of unearthing the right occupier for the building.

Quality is key, and many of the businesses we are speaking with are looking for refurbished space that is immediately available for occupation. Both capital and rental values remain at existing levels, with typical lease lengths being between 5 and 10 years with breaks in year 3. Whilst there is an element of uncertainty in the air due to political and world events, we do require more stock across Derbyshire to satisfy ongoing requirements.”

The industrial agency team has also been busy working on several schemes in Clay Cross, the first being Wingfield View Business Park, which is being developed by Roe Developments. Wingfield View Business Park is a new industrial estate comprising 19 units totalling some 60,000 sq ft. The units range in size from 2,091 sq ft to 12,062 sq ft and have been available to purchase or lease.

FHP Property Consultants alongside joint agents are pleased to confirm that all units are now under offer with practical completion imminent.

Following the success at Wingfield View Business Park, Roe Developments has started construction on Egstow View Business Park, Clay Cross, which will offer a mix of trade counter and warehouse units. The scheme should be available for occupation around Q2 2025 and FHP has confirmed that there are already four units under offer on a leasehold basis including one drive-through unit.

Elsewhere in the Chesterfield area, FHP completed the sale of 12,500 sq ft unit  in Whittington to another local occupier and haa let a further 3,000 sq ft at Spectrum Business Park, just south of the town centre. Due to the success at Spectrum Business Park, the owners are now looking to deliver further units that will hopefully be available in Q1 2025.

Looking to locate your business in a superb central location with proximity to several major UK cities? Find out more about investing in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

Wingfield View Clay Cross - warehouse units

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

Chesterfield manufacturers encouraged to inspire future talent as businesses celebrate 10 years of innovative scheme

Businesses are gearing up to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the renowned Made in Chesterfield initiative, which brings together schools and local firms to close skills gaps in the town.

Designed to spark interest in manufacturing, engineering, and construction careers among young people, the campaign offers a unique opportunity for businesses in those key sectors to inspire the future workforce.

Destination Chesterfield is seeking companies to participate in this year’s Made in Chesterfield scheme. By engaging with school pupils, your business can offer firsthand insights into the exciting career paths within these crucial sectors.

Celebrating a decade of partnership and collaboration, the Made in Chesterfield campaign will run throughout October 2024.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership, and supported by Chesterfield College Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and NatWest, the campaign has a proven track record of success.

Since 2014, over 3,500 students have explored career opportunities in the area’s manufacturing, engineering, and construction sectors.

Chesterfield College Group, the project’s headline sponsor, has witnessed a surge in students enrolling in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) subjects, underscoring the campaign’s significant impact.

Julie Richards OBE, CEO of Chesterfield College Group, shared: “Supporting Made in Chesterfield aligns with our mission to connect students with employers, providing inspiration and creating opportunities for successful careers. Our Engineering, Manufacturing, and Science Centre and involvement in the town’s new Construction Skills Hub highlight our dedication to providing the best career opportunities for young people in engineering and construction.”

Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “With an ageing workforce creating a skills gap in manufacturing, it’s crucial to cultivate new talent. These tours and interactions give young people invaluable insights into the promising careers in STEM fields.”

Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), added: “We are thrilled to continue supporting Made in Chesterfield, facilitating connections between employers and young people. This initiative provides meaningful experiences, raising awareness of local opportunities and helping employers meet potential future employees.”

Don’t miss this chance to contribute to Chesterfield’s future. Learn more about how your business can get involved with Made in Chesterfield by visiting https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/ or contacting Direct Education Business Partnership at madeinchesterfieldvisits@debp.org.

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