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Conference urges business growth and collaboration to boost Chesterfield’s economy

Businesses in Chesterfield are being encouraged to explore ways in which they can grow, as part of ambitious plans to improve the town’s economy and create higher-value jobs for residents.

Speakers at Destination Chesterfield’s annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference highlighted ways in which local businesses can harness support to innovate and create new jobs.

They also identified that if all organisations in the town currently categorised as ‘low growth’ experienced just a 1% uplift, it would significantly boost the local economy.

Helping businesses to grow and ensuring people have the right skills are key objectives of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Growth Strategy (2023-2027). To support this, delegates at Celebrate Chesterfield heard from businesses which are innovating and overcoming challenges to boost growth.

Mike Isherwood, Managing Director of event headline sponsor, System Q explained how his business has evolved and adapted to become a supplier to major organisations, including the Ministry of Defence: “We are committed to providing our customers with the most innovative and advanced technology, ensuring their safety and security at all times.

“Our company is proud to be a part of the thriving high-tech community in Chesterfield, a town known for its innovation and progress. Despite the common belief that the best firms and talent are found in larger cities, this quaint town is home to a wealth of undiscovered talent.”

Ash Young, Managing Director of CarMats.co.uk recently relocated his business to the town.

He said: “If we hadn’t done things differently, we wouldn’t have seen the growth that we have. When we set up the business we were aiming for 100 orders per day, but because we changed the way we marketed the products, we are now shipping around 150,000 orders per year and we’re going to turn over about £7.5m this year.

“We’ve managed to hire a really skilled team in Chesterfield and the transport links mean it’s easy for us to get out to couriers easily.”

Amy Revell, of We Are Spaces Ltd recently expanded her business into larger office space at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, having initially moved into the development last year.

She said: “We currently turn over around £7m and have 15 employees, and we are rapidly growing. Chesterfield has played a big part in our growth – we have a lovely office space here which we managed to grow from one of the smaller suites into a larger one. We’ve managed to recruit really good people in the area, and we are strategically placed really well. Being so central has allowed us to grow all of our core services nationally.”

At the conference, Destination Chesterfield also launched its ambitious new strategy and plan, which outlines the partnership’s aims to attract further inward investment, support businesses to grow and encourage more people to visit the town.

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, commented: “This plan reflects our town’s ambition, and where we collectively see the biggest growth opportunities. Recent research has identified 26% of revenues from tourism, inward investment and talent growth are shaped by people’s perception of a town or city.  Meaning our collective work to promote the town are vital to achieving the towns growth aspirations.

Celebrate Chesterfield business innovation panel, Mike Isherwood, Cllr Tricia Gilby, Adam Doyle

“Since 2010, Destination Chesterfield has worked alongside Chesterfield Borough Council and Chesterfield Champions to promote the area as a contemporary destination to invest, work, live and visit, and our public-private partnership continues to play a central role in the town’s success. We must continue working together to raise the profile of Chesterfield to realise its significant potential.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council added: “Celebrate is always a fantastic event that showcases the very best that our borough has to offer. It was great to be able to meet with businesses to talk about how the council can support them to grow, but also to hear from them directly and discover what else we can do to drive growth and investment.

“I was also pleased to see a strong reception the new Destination Chesterfield strategy and plan – this aligns closely with our own growth strategy and together we can help grow our local economy, attract more investment and deliver benefits for both businesses and our residents.”

The 2024 Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference was also sponsored by Markham Vale and the University of Derby. The event also saw almost 40 businesses exhibiting across the East Midlands Chamber Business Support Zone and the Invest in Chesterfield Zone.

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

Hotpod Yoga studio set to open at Chesterfield’s Elder Way

Hotpod Yoga will be the first tenant to locate to the new units created in the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of the new Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield franchise, has signed a 10-year lease on unit 7, a 1,420 sq ft unit located at the top of Elder Way near Saltergate.

He said: “I love the location. It is prominently located in the town centre and offers convenient parking for customers. It is a beautiful building, full of history and fresh energy. I am very much looking forward to opening the studio.”

Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield will open to the public on Thursday 18 April, with the first class taking place at 12.30pm.

Part of the national Hotpod Yoga chain, the new studio on Elder Way will offer an immersive yoga experience, using a pod as a safe environment for people to practice yoga in 37-degree heat while maximising the senses through relaxing sounds and calming scents.

The new Hotpod Yoga unit is one of seven street level units and large basement that have been created by regeneration specialist Jomast Developments. Additionally, there is a 92-bed Premier Inn hotel which has been successfully trading on the upper two floors of the building since 2019.

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director welcomed Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield to Elder Way saying: “The addition of Hotpod Yoga to Elder Way brings forward the health and wellbeing element we envisaged for the building when we redeveloped it. Elder Way offers an ideal location for businesses. Not only is it an iconic building, but it is centrally located and benefits from excellent amenities and footfall from surrounding businesses, all of which have been further boosted by Chesterfield Borough Council’s investment in the town centre.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to be able to welcome a new business to the town centre and I am delighted that they have chosen to be based on Elder Way. Following on from the redevelopment of the old Co-op department store we invested in improving the paving and area from Elder Way along Packers Row as part of our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project.

“This investment has helped create a more attractive area and we will begin work on the wider project in the marketplace later this year. Using external funding to help improve our town centre is about creating an environment where businesses and visitors want to be, which will help grow our local economy.

“I wish Chris all the best with his new business venture, and I look forward to welcoming more businesses to Elder Way in the future.”

Work is now underway to install the heated pod, showers, toilets, changing and reception areas ahead of the opening next month.

Chris commented: “The unit is a real blank canvas which is making for a straightforward fit out.”

As a former NHS mental health nurse, Chris, who is also a qualified yoga teacher, aims to offer both health and wellbeing benefits through the yoga classes which will be delivered by fully qualified instructors. Classes, which are suitable for all levels, will run seven days a week from 6.30am.

The opening of the new yoga studio at Elder Way brings the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. Previously owned by another franchisee, and located at Chesterfield FC, the studio was forced to close amid the Covid crisis.

Chris commented: “I am delighted to bring the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. There was demand for it then and I believe demand has increased further as people recognise the mental health benefits of hot yoga as the heat enables the mind to become more focussed.”

Launched in 2013, Hotpod Yoga is now Europe’s largest yoga business with around 70 locations, including Sheffield and Derby.

Six units now remain available at Elder Way with joint agents, WSB Property and FHP, reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk

To book a class at Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, visit hotpodyoga.com/studios/chesterfield/

Chris Wilkinson Hotpod Yoga Elder Way

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PEAK Gateway Resort receives reserved matters planning approval

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved the reserved matters planning application for a revised first phase of the PEAK Gateway Resort on the reclaimed Birchall Estate. The 300-acre property is located on the eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

PEAK proposes to bring the scope and services of internationally successful ski resorts to create the UK’s equivalent for biking, hiking and other adventure sports as well as for nature, culture and heritage experiences.

PEAK will have its own micro grid for energy, waste and water. PEAK will generate and consume its own energy and operate a zero-carbon tourism dedicated mobility service.

Planning permission includes extensive overnight and holiday accommodation supported by hospitality, leisure, wellness, a multi-disciplinary bike park and experiential retail. As such, it is one of the largest permitted mixed-use leisure schemes in the UK. Five of the six largest cities in England are within 75 miles, providing a visitor catchment of over 20 million people.

Labelled Gateway at PEAK Image

Locally, PEAK has the potential to create over 1,000 new jobs. It will partner with the education sector to deliver a Green Skills Academy in support of both PEAK and Chesterfield’s commitment to training and upskilling across a broad range of key sectors, but especially for construction and tourism.

PEAK will be open to day, as well as stay visitors. Local residents and businesses will be able to take advantage of incentives and membership opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “PEAK Resort offers a fantastic opportunity to bring more visitors into Chesterfield, grow our local economy and create a range of new jobs.

“It will be an incredible asset for our borough and will be a national leader in respect of clean energy, zero carbon mobility and skills.

“I look forward to seeing this development take shape over the next few years.”

PEAK Gateway Resort from above

The current landowner has, over many years, fully reclaimed the 300-acre Birchall estate from opencast. The property now provides the perfect natural setting for the consented development. Nature and outdoor experiences are at the heart of the PEAK offer and BNG (Biodiversity Net Gain) resulting from the development will all be achieved on the property.

Birchall and PEAK hope to be an exemplar of the reclamation of land from the industries of the past into enterprises of the future.

Rupert Carr, a director of Birchall and Peak Gateway Properties, said at the Planning Committee Meeting: “PEAK is the opportunity to deliver a clean growth infrastructure for the regional visitor economy, an opportunity for Chesterfield and indeed the region to build a significant presence in one of the fastest growing economic sectors. PEAK is finally of its time.”

PEAK Resort will also support the UK’s first hydrogen and EV tourist mobility service linking visitors to Chesterfield’s medieval market town centre, its national rail station and surrounding attractions as well as to the trails and natural wonders of the National Park.

Tarah Gear, director at Milligan who are part of Peak Gateway Properties said; “PEAK will become a blueprint for sustainable tourism, adding value to Chesterfield’s economy and community through job creation, investment in skills and regional connectivity.

“Milligan are proud to have been part of the team bringing the project forward to a point of market readiness. PEAK, as proposed, has been achieved through true partnership, a collaboration between local and regional stakeholders as well as national and international commercial operators. PEAK now has the opportunity to be a trailblazer and set new standards for the future of leisure and tourism.”

Colliers’ National Capital Markets team have been appointed to take the project forwards.

PEAK Gateway View

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

Quirky new Chesterfield town centre store to provide ‘a smile, a laugh and bit of mischief’ to customers

A quirky independent store has opened its doors in Chesterfield Town Centre, selling a wide range of gifts and other unique items.

Eclectic Delights of Serendipity is owned by mother and daughter duo, Cheryl Knowles and Saffy Kendal-Allan, and has been running in Derbyshire for several years. Now, the business has begun welcoming customers to a new shop, based at 12 High Street.

The pair told us their story of running the business, and how it led to them taking the step to open in Chesterfield: “Some may know us from our little shop in Matlock Bath or previously our Hope shop or even know us from the beginning of our journey, 9 years ago at Cheryl’s first tiny shop just off Newbold Road.

spice girls mats eclectic delights

“Cheryl started off in her small shop doing re-loved furniture and small gifts which then took on a life of its own and she had to move into a larger shop at Hope Valley where she began being known more as a Gift, Clothing and Re-loved furniture shop. After a few years there, Cheryl then set her eyes on the ‘sea-side-without-a-sea’ town of Matlock Bath where Saffy joined to manage the shop as Cheryl continued in Hope Valley.

“However, after lockdown we decided to shut the Hope Valley shop and focus our efforts on Matlock Bath. After five years we decided we wanted a shop closer to home and by luck 12 High Street became available and three weeks later we are now in and ready for business.”

Cheryl and Saffy also explained what customers can expect to find when visiting the new Chesterfield shop.

They added: “Our shop name is exactly the type of items we sell: a broad and diverse range of items that you weren’t looking for but they appeared when you needed them. We are proud stockists of local independent suppliers such as: Letterbox Love, WaggyDogz, Enchanted Love, and so many more.

ecelctic delights

“We truly believe in having something that is for everyone which is why we don’t just sell cards and gifts but leather handbags, a MyMoments machine (which creates personalised items) and currently in the process of making a Boutique on our first floor. We also have plans for workshops on our first and top floor for both adults and children – so watch this space!”

In addition, the duo emphasised the importance of looking after customers and explained how they want to build up their community around the shop and the town: “What sets us apart from others is our customer care. We might be a shop, but we focus and care for our customers and their mental well-being while they are in our shop.

“Not everyone needs to buy something, but sometimes they just need someone to talk to and that’s what we are there for. We truly believe that if you look after the community around you, the community will look after you. Also, being a Mother and Daughter team we are always ready with a smile, a laugh and bit of mischief for all our customers as you can usually find us laughing and causing havoc together.

Being able to share this dream of running a shop together and bringing things in that we love and adore as well as spending so much time together is amazing and has brought us so close!”

“We are so excited to be a part of Chesterfield’s wide range of quirky independents. We have lived in Chesterfield for over 15 years and love the character of the town and its people. Chesterfield has such a friendly and welcoming community of people which we feel is unlike most towns or cities. As shoppers and now a business in the town we agree that we all need to support our local independents – each one brings something different and unique to the town making it a fun, diverse and great place to live and shop!”

For more information about the store, head over to the Eclectic Delights of Serendipity Facebook page.

Looking for a great opportunity to kickstart your leisure or retail business? Find out more about locating it in Chesterfield.

heart & home eclectic delights

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National Careers Week: How Chesterfield apprentices are unlocking business growth in Chesterfield

Chesterfield businesses are being urged to futureproof their workforces by finding out more about the far-reaching benefits of taking on apprentices in the town.

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a powerful tool for bridging the gap between education and employment. In Chesterfield, this holds particularly true, as businesses stand to gain several benefits by taking on apprentices.

Ahead of National Careers Week 2024 (4-9 March), a panel of apprentices building their careers in the town have outlined these advantages, from fostering a skilled workforce for the future, to enhancing company culture and driving innovation.

Speaking to Destination Chesterfield and the Derbyshire Times, apprentices in the town spoke of the numerous ways in which they are contributing to their organisations. In an era defined by advancing technology and evolving industry demands, the need for skilled workers has never been more pronounced. By taking on apprentices, businesses in Chesterfield have been able to address this need by nurturing fresh talent and providing them with invaluable hands-on experience.

Lucy Jones, Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentice with DBCP commented: “Apprentices have different backgrounds, ideas and viewpoints which can help to combat challenges which may arise in the business.

Lucy Jones - DBCP

Lucy Jones – DBCP

“They bring a different mindset to everyone else. You get to mould that person for your business and work with them to be a better version of themselves, with a range of skills from time management to dealing with clients. Apprentices are taking their learning and applying it to your business straight away.”

Moreover, businesses have the opportunity to tailor apprenticeship programs to align with their specific needs and objectives, ensuring that apprentices receive training that directly translates into tangible contributions to the company.

By investing in the development of apprentices, businesses not only secure a pipeline of skilled workers but also cultivate a culture of learning and growth within their organisation. This commitment to employee development not only benefits the individual apprentice but also contributes to the long-term success and sustainability of the business and Chesterfield’s economy.

Chanelle Wallace, Level 2 Hairdressing Apprentice at MD Hair said: “Being based at the salon gives me a great opportunity to learn everyone else’s techniques and soak up all their experience. I’m then able to use that to find my style and ways of doing things, which I think helps to strengthen and grow the team. If you work with more experienced people, you’re going to learn those key social skills, which for my area of work is so important.”

Woman in a salon drying another woman's hair

Chanelle Wallace, MD Hair, Level 2 Hairdressing Apprentice

Apprenticeships are crucial in driving innovation by injecting fresh perspectives and new ideas into the workplace. As digital technologies continue to reshape industries, businesses in Chesterfield can leverage apprenticeships to harness emerging talent and foster a culture of innovation.

Isaac Marbridge, Level 7 ACCA Chartered Accountant Apprentice at BHP commented: “If a business has the flexibility to work with an apprentice, I’d recommend it. I have quarterly meetings with my manager, and we discuss my progress. I get to regularly put forward skills which I want to get trained up on, which I’m then able to go and pursue. That could be something unique that nobody else has done. This means I can then bring fresh knowledge into the business, which overall will help the organisation.

Isaac Marbridge, BHP Accountants speaking at the Chesterfield Employability and skills conference

Isaac Marbridge, BHP Accountants speaking at the Chesterfield Employability and skills conference.

“Businesses will gain a lot by getting a different perspective. My industry, accountancy, is transforming and we must keep up with new technologies. Younger people coming through as apprentices and trainees will be better placed to get trained and help to drive the business forward. We’ve had talks about AI and how that is set to impact our sector, and we’ve got younger people already looking at how we can use it to our advantage.”

Furthermore, apprenticeships provide businesses with the opportunity to future-proof their workforce by equipping apprentices with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape. Whether it’s mastering new technologies, adapting to shifting market trends, or navigating regulatory changes, apprenticeships empower businesses in Chesterfield to stay agile and resilient in the face of uncertainty.

Moreover, apprenticeships provide existing employees with the opportunity to mentor and support the next generation of talent, fostering a sense of pride and fulfilment in their roles. This mentorship not only enhances the professional development of apprentices but also cultivates strong bonds between team members, leading to greater cohesion and productivity.

DBCP’s Lucy Jones added: “Most of the inspectors in our organisation are from an older generation. I think that it is important that we get trainees and apprentices into that role to keep it going and ensure the future of our industry. The job comes with a lot of responsibility, so it’s vital we give people that hands-on experience as soon as we can.”

In Chesterfield, businesses stand to gain a wealth of benefits by embracing apprenticeships as a cornerstone of their workforce development strategy. To assist businesses in ensuring they have the workforce required to meet the demands of the future, Chesterfield Borough Council has launched a skills brokerage service, which can signpost firms to the support they require.

Max Denton, Skills Delivery Assistant at Chesterfield Borough Council is currently working towards a Level 4 Project Management apprenticeship. He commented: “The role I carry out aligns with one of the five objectives in the council’s growth strategy, which is ensuring that people in our borough have the right skills to progress in the labour market and benefit from future employment opportunities.

Three men stood having a conversation

Max Denton, Chesterfield Borough Council, Level 4 Project Manager Associate

“I believe that there is a lot of opportunity in Chesterfield at the moment. It is a pleasure to see the amount of development taking place here. It will certainly lead to more employment opportunities in the town. The focus of our growth strategy is to create higher-value jobs and growth, and I would encourage businesses to get in touch with us to see how we can support them.”

To find out more about apprenticeships and skills support for businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

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Study ranks Chesterfield as the best town in the UK for access to green spaces

A study has named Chesterfield as the best town in the UK for access to green spaces.

The Green Giants market research exercise, which was commissioned by home improvements company Eurocell has set out to discover which UK towns and cities have the best access to green space.

To do this, the study looked at several data points, including the number of homes in each town or city with a private garden, the average square footage of that garden, as well as the average distance to public green space and the percentage of homes on the market that are currently listed as having a private garden.

These figures were then given a score out of 10 and ranked, leading to a total score out of 40.

Eurocell placed Chesterfield in top spot with a score of 30.8 out of 40. It found that:

  • 95% of homes & flats in the town had private outdoor space.
  • The average size of private outdoor space was 249.7 sq. m.
  • The average distance to nearest park, public garden or playing field was 296.7 m.
  • 92.05% of homes currently on the market have a garden.

Speaking about our town’s listing at the top of the table, Eurocell said: “Chesterfield, in Derbyshire, comes out on top as being the best place to live in the UK when it comes to access to green space. Close to the Peak District, Chesterfield is surrounded by the woodland walks and diverse habitats of the national park.”

“And the town itself has numerous parks and gardens including Holmebrook Valley Country Park and Linacre Reservoir.”

See the full top 20 list here. 

People living and working in Chesterfield also commented on the availability of open spaces as one of the area’s key strengths.

Jade Chinn, Marketing Lead at Oasis Studio said: “I personally like taking advantage of all the beautiful country parks and estates we have to explore in and around Chesterfield, Linacre Reservoir and Holmebook being personal favourites. They are also great for team building days!”

Jason Evans, HSE Advisor and Principal Designer at Mascot Management Ltd. added: “I love to go walking along the Chesterfield Canal. It’s on our doorstep and I feel it is still a bit of a hidden gem for our area. It’s a lovely place where you can get some relaxation time and take in the wildlife and scenery.”

Peter Botham, Founder and Managing Director of Shed Grounds Maintenance said: “One of my cherished spots in Chesterfield is Queen’s Park. When I was a child, my godparents would take me on the charming little train track that winds its way around the park. Now, I’ve had the joy of passing on this tradition to my own children.”

Oasis Studio, Mascot Management and Shed Grounds Maintenance support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Family walking at Queen's Park, surrounded by wild flowers

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

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Local businesses grow into new spaces at Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Two Chesterfield-based companies have expanded into larger offices at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre – after growing their businesses over the last year.

We Are Spaces, a commercial interior design and property solution company, and Integrated Interest, a sales and marketing technology company, have expanded into larger office spaces in the centre.

Owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, the flagship office development opened in July 2022 and with the expansion of these businesses is now 85% let.

Amy Revell, co-founder and director of We Are Spaces, said: “The Enterprise Centre is a wonderful space for us to call our home. “The Grade A space and service we receive from the team here really Is great value for money. We are incredibly settled and have a great relationship with the other businesses and staff, so we didn’t want to lose this, when needing to increase the size of our office to meet the new needs of our team”.

amy revell wearespaces

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

“The Enterprise Centre has made the process so easy for us to move into a bigger suite without incurring big moving costs and disruption. We always knew that when we first based ourselves here, it provided us with lots of flexibility to grow efficiently and we are doing just that.

“It’s a pleasure to have our offices within the enterprise centre and we are investing a huge amount to create an amazing fit out for our clients and staff to enjoy for many more years to come.”

Steven Brough, director of Integrated Interest, said: “When we first started looking for office space the Enterprise Centre was at the top of the list straight away, with it being in such a prominent location. It is perfectly placed for access by car, bus or train, and with access to Chesterfield town centre and Queen’s Park, there is everything you need on the doorstep. With it being such a new building, everything is modern and creates the feel I wanted for a technology company.”

The Enterprise Chesterfield model aims to provide space for new and small businesses, where they can access a range of support that will help them to grow.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to see local businesses growing, employing more of our residents, and expanding their presence in the Enterprise Centre.

“Our investment in the development formed a key part of our economic recovery plan following the pandemic – the growth of these businesses and the high occupancy rate of the centre shows how the building has helped our borough’s economy to bounce back and has created new employment opportunities for our residents.

“As well as growing the local economy, our enterprise centres also provide a small income for the council. This income helps ensure we can support businesses to grow whilst still providing the essential services our residents rely on.

“We knew our Enterprise Chesterfield model would be successful because we’ve seen businesses based at our other centres grow significantly and expand their presence in our borough, but it is great to see this working as planned in our newest centre less than two years since opening.”

Female leader of Chesterfield Borough Council in red jacket on Town Hall balcony

Cllr Tricia Gilby

Chesterfield Borough Council also owns Dunston Innovation Centre and Tapton Innovation Centre, both of which are also over 85% let.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is Chesterfield’s flagship centre and includes 32 office suites in a range of sizes, which all include individual security and high-tech features which allow businesses to adapt to modern ways of working.

Sustainability sits at the heart of the building, with built in energy efficient systems that help businesses keep costs down whilst also reducing their carbon footprint.

The centre also includes a breakout room where businesses can network and build relationships so that they can work together more efficiently.

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

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

Find Your Perfect Office in Chesterfield.

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

 

2 male and 2 female business people speaking at table at Chesterfield Enterprise Centre

Northern Gateway Chesterfield Enterprise Centre

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

Craft and makers market coming to Chesterfield

A new pop-up market will bring a selection of crafters and makers to Chesterfield each month this year.

Little Hummingbird Events are partnering with Chesterfield Borough Council to bring their unique offering to Chesterfield on one Saturday each month from 10am to 4pm starting on 9 March.

The Independent Makers and Crafters Market will include seasonal food offerings, handmade gifts and much more – hosting it alongside the town’s regular Saturday market will encourage more people to visit and support both market traders and local retailers.

Nicola Hudson, owner of Little Hummingbird Events, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council on this exciting new monthly project.

“As a small company ourselves our passion is helping to support small independent businesses. It is this ethos which drives us to help them reach new and regular audiences so that their own business models grow.

“What most people don’t realise is, the bulk of business in the UK is in fact small business. If ever there was a time to support small independents, it is now.”

Little Hummingbird Events have previously worked in Chesterfield, hosting a Maker’s Market in summer 2023.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re excited to welcome Little Hummingbird Events and their fantastic traders back to the town centre.

“The aim is to enhance the market offering bringing new people into the town centre and encouraging them to support existing businesses as well as the new traders. I hope a lot of people will come along and support the new traders coming to Chesterfield.”

Markets are planned on the main market for each month throughout 2024, for a full list of dates head over to our events page.

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield, home to a range of unique independent shops and well-known national retailers.

town centre chesterfield market hall

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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Chesterfield firms urged to access skills support to grow town’s economy

Businesses across Chesterfield have been told they must act today to futureproof their businesses and the town’s economy, by ensuring their staff are receiving the relevant training and skills.

The Chesterfield Employability and Skills Conference (Thursday, 8th February 2024) was hosted in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

The event at the Winding Wheel Theatre in the heart of the town, introduced a new wave of support for firms in the area, signposting businesses to relevant schemes which will help them to upskill and reskill their staff. Attendees at the event were given the chance to meet with representatives from the following organisations:

  • Chesterfield Borough Council, Skills Brokerage Service
  • Chesterfield College
  • Derbyshire BAME Forum
  • Direct Education Business Partnership
  • University of Derby
  • D2N2 Careers Hub/ D2N2 LEP
  • Derbyshire County Council/ National Careers Service
  • North East Derbyshire District Council
  • Department for Work and Pensions
  • Auto Windscreens, owned by Markerstudy Group
  • East Midlands Railway

The call for businesses to access this support comes as firms in some of the town’s key sectors say they are finding difficulties in filling vacancies with suitable skilled people.

The latest East Midlands Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey showed that more than 70% of businesses in the region are struggling to fill vacancies, with skilled manual or technical roles proving the most challenging. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, digital and health & social care are just some of the sectors which Chesterfield Borough Council aims to support with workforce growth.

To address those challenges, Chesterfield’s new skills brokerage gives businesses in the borough the opportunity to gain free, impartial, bespoke advice to support them to access funding, alongside connecting companies to training and development opportunities.

The full range of services offered includes:

  • Access a range of fully funded courses to upskill the workforce, ranging from basic skills and business fundamentals to leadership and management, green and digital skills.
  • Accessing a variety of funding streams.
  • Support to employ Apprentices, including how to access apprenticeship funding and information around the apprenticeship levy.
  • Recruitment and retention advice.
  • Succession planning.
  • Advice and continued support.

Michael Timmins, Director at AECOM and Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses in attendance at the Employability and Skills Conference. We know that firms across our area are concerned about the future of their workforces, so it is extremely important that we continue to highlight the support that is out there. I would urge businesses of all sizes to make the most of the assistance available. We must all work together to secure the future growth of Chesterfield and ensure that our workforce has the right skills and abilities to meet future challenges.”

Michael Timmins speaking at 2024 employability and skills conference

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership said: “We work closely with a wide range of partners to help local people develop the skills that businesses need both now and, in the future, which in turn will help ensure everyone can benefit from a growing local economy.

“Our Skills Brokerage service aims to help businesses access the funding and the information they need to deliver skills development programmes for their employees, but this is just one of the initiatives we have launched that aim to help businesses based in our borough to grow. If you are running a business in Chesterfield, please contact our team directly to find out more about the support available to you.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby speaking at 2024 skills and employability conference

For more information about this service or to arrange a meeting contact Chris McKechnie, Skills Brokerage Business Advisor by calling 07583416749 or emailing Chris.McKechnie@chesterfield.gov.uk.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Brokerage Service is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

skills conference 2024

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

Chesterfield’s rising stars spearhead campaign to promote local apprenticeships

Young people building their careers in Chesterfield have spoken of the benefits that apprenticeships have in paving the way for a prosperous future.

Speaking to Destination Chesterfield and the Derbyshire Times, the town’s rising stars expressed their satisfaction at not following the ‘traditional’ University route and gaining valuable workplace experience alongside their studies.

Abigail Dodd, Level 3 Apprentice Business Administrator at Rosewood Wealth Management, commented: “I don’t think I would have learned anywhere near as much at University or College, compared to the skills I have developed during my apprenticeship.

“The skills which I’ve learned on the job are incomparable to anything that you could learn in a classroom. Getting the hands-on experience, such as greeting and communicating with clients is unlike anything you could learn in traditional education.”

Woman sitting at a computer with the Rosewood logo behind her

Abi Dodd, Rosewood Wealth Management

There are currently more than 2,500 people currently participating in apprenticeships in Chesterfield. Participants were keen to highlight the key advantages of opting for an apprenticeship in the town.

Tom Zerboni, Level 2 Junior Estate Agent at Lime Living, believes his apprenticeship has given him the chance to showcase a high level of responsibility and maturity: “I’m already going out and showing people around properties. Working with a smaller company, I’m getting broad experience in terms of getting to grips with all aspects of the business and being able to help my colleagues.”

Man on the phone sitting in front of a computer

Tom Zerboni, Lime Living, Level 2 Junior Estate Agent

A common theme was how apprenticeships provide hands-on experience, whilst enabling participants to gain high-level qualifications.

Ewan Walker, Level 3 Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at MSE Hiller, said: “There is textbook learning, but also things that you can pick up ‘on the job.’ There could be something in class which you may not have much knowledge of, but as an apprentice, you’ve done it in the field, so you get a much better understanding.

“I’ve been able to go through the whole company and learn so many different things. For example, welding, centrifuge balance, fitting and site work. I recently got to visit Walkers Crisps in a customer-facing capacity.”

Ewan Walker MSE Hiller 873x466

Milena Vasileva, Level 7 Architecture Apprentice at Whittam Cox Architects, commented: “There are seven people taking part in an apprenticeship at our company.

“Alongside studying at University, I’ve also been able to develop skills such as time management, working under pressure, working at a fast pace, prioritising workload and decision-making. You wouldn’t be able to develop those skills as quickly if you weren’t working in the industry alongside your studies.”

Woman in peach shirt smiling and sitting at desk

Milena Vasileva, Whittam Cox, Level 7 Architecture Apprentice

Chesterfield’s apprentices contribute to the local economy by addressing the skills gap. As apprentices become skilled professionals, they meet the demands of the local job market, fortifying Chesterfield’s industries and supporting economic growth.

Gracie Stevenson, Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice at Peak Pharmacy, explained what attracted her to the town as an ideal location to launch her career: “Usually the big opportunities are in cities, and I hadn’t considered that there were potential opportunities on my doorstep as well.

“The business I work for recently moved to the new Horizon development near Markham Vale, which has brought all aspects of the organisation together, so to be part of that transition has been a fantastic learning experience. In the big cities, there is lots of competition, but Chesterfield is up and coming, and the route to get into an apprenticeship is probably a lot easier.”

Woman sitting at a computer with a notepad open

Gracie Stevenson, Peak Pharmacy

MSE Hiller’s Ewan Walker agrees that the town’s location and transport links is providing more investment and job opportunities, adding: “We’re a company which deals with organisations up and down the country, so being next to the M1 is a great base for us to get to wherever we need to be.”Further development coming up at Markham Vale will bring in more opportunities and jobs to Chesterfield, which will hopefully bring more apprenticeships too.”

Financial independence is an advantage of apprenticeships. Instead of accumulating student debt, apprentices in Chesterfield earn a wage while learning. Some roles currently being advertised in the town offer wages above £20,000 per year.

This dual benefit ensures that young individuals can support themselves financially from the outset of their career journey. What’s more, apprentices have the opportunity to work their way up the career ladder, and into higher-level and more highly paid roles in the future.

Rosewood’s Abigail Dodd continued: “The apprentices of today are going to be the leaders, teachers, and directors of tomorrow. In the financial advice industry, there is a stereotype that the majority of higher-level professionals working in it are older gentlemen.

“However, at my company, the two directors are women and are considered young for the industry. Our team of seven are all women too. With all the development taking place in Chesterfield, we need to make sure we have got the people to sustain those higher roles.

“Therefore, I think that it is crucial to have more young people taking on an apprenticeship, to get that knowledge and carry on the legacy that other people have had.”

Participants were eager to point out that being an apprentice in 2024 comes with a high level of responsibility from the outset. Whittam Cox’s Milena Vasileva told the panel: “There’s a huge point of interest around competency in our industry and showing visible proof of it.

“Relevant experience is certainly part of that, so being able to prove that as an apprentice, you’ve worked on several projects at a time will add to your competency levels.”

Want to find out more about the apprenticeship roles available locally? Head over to https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/ to discover more.

apprentice round table participants

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

Full steam ahead for rail training and innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Planning permission has been granted for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) – a modern rail innovation and training centre set to be located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

The new centre will provide workshop and classroom space to support specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses – bolstering Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector.

Estimated build costs for the centre stand at around £4 million, with funding provided through the Staveley Town Deal.

Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail (part of Newcastle University).

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s fantastic that our plans for DRIIVe have now been approved – the centre offers the opportunity to drive growth in the rail sector and help our residents access high-quality jobs. The development of DRIIVe is part of our Skills Action Plan that aims to help everyone benefit from economic growth but it also contributes of the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal in ensuring that the town is a place where people can ‘Start, Stay and Grow’.”

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “Getting approval for these plans has been a long journey but will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry and ensure we can continue to preserve our local rail heritage. I look forward to finalising the plans and making a start on site.”

DRIIVe will include classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two 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 which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

DRIIVe will create around 20 full time jobs and by year five it aims to support around 270 trainees, supporting local people to access highly skilled careers in the rail industry.

Mark Robinson, Professor of Rail Systems Engineering and Director of New Rail, said: “Newcastle University and Barrow Hill realised that there was a current and growing need for a railway research and innovation centre that specialised in rail freight. DRIIVe is the ideal one-stop solution providing purpose-built spaces for rail research and development activities and a broad base of rail related training. Ideally placed within the rail industry, DRIIVe will be a focus for rail freight innovation providing test equipment and facilities for engineers, the supply industry and associated commercial space for rail related businesses.”

Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to make a bid to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.

As well as DRIIVe, the funding is being used to support ten projects in the area that aim to ensure the town is a place where people can ‘Start, Stay and Grow.’

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is a huge step for DRIIVe and for the Staveley Town Deal – seeing projects move through the planning process brings us closer to getting started on site and delivering the benefits of these projects for the residents of Staveley. I look forward to seeing DRIIVe develop further and meeting the residents and businesses who will benefit from the completed development.”

Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and the projects being funded through it, including DRIIVe, by visiting:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

Driive artists impression

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

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