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Chesterfield to host a packed programme of events in 2023

Residents and visitors are encouraged to ‘save the date,’ as details of a packed programme of events is coming to Chesterfield are announced for 2023 – including some exciting new additions.

Designed to provide fun and unique experiences for our communities, this year’s events programme will continue to support the town centre and the wider borough by encouraging people to spend more time in Chesterfield, while enjoying the borough’s award-winning parks.

Among the new Chesterfield events in 2023 is Eat in the Park – a two-day live music event hosted in Queen’s Park this summer. The event, which will include two stages full of entertainment for all the family and food vendors selling food from around the globe, will take place on 5 and 6 August 2023, with tickets on sale now.

There will be two stages, the main stage and the Buxton Brewery Tent stage, both with six acts appearing on each stage each day. There will be a mixture of tribute acts and local performers to entertain those attending, as well as entertainment for children with the performers singing a range of well-known children’s songs from TV and film.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Chesterfield is set to be a hive of activity this year, with a fantastic range of entertainment happening in and around the town centre, and in our award-winning parks.

“We’re delighted to welcome the Eat in the Park event as an exciting new addition to this year’s calendar. This took place in Buxton for the first time last year and was very successful, with just under 5,000 people attending the event each day – and we’re sure it will be just as popular in Chesterfield this summer.”

One of the Eat in the Park event organisers Jake Burnham explained: “We are extremely excited to bring Eat in the Park to Queen’s Park in Chesterfield – it’s a great town to hold the second event in and we can’t wait until August.”

The Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival is taking place on 22 and 23 July and will include a variety of food retailers, as well as a drinks marquee. Children at the event will also be able to enjoy the Bubble Magicians and other entertainment. There will also be music at the event from a few local bands too.

Councillor Kate Sarvent continued: “The Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival is a new edition to the event calendar too, this will take place in Queen’s Park in July and is free to enter.”

Now a firm favourite on the calendar, the popular Chesterfield Pride event will take centre stage at Stand Road Park on 23 July – with live music and acts throughout the day. The event is now recognised as the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s events programme is part of the Love Chesterfield campaign – launched in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to celebrate everything that’s great about the town, while supporting the trading ambitions of local retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.

Councillor Sarvent added: “As well as some new additions to our line up we’re also planning for the return of some of people’s favourite local events – including the Medieval Fun Day and the 1940s Market. It’s all about bringing Chesterfield to life, creating opportunities for people to make lasting memories, and to come out and show their support for our amazing local businesses.”

More details of each event will be published over the coming months, but key dates and details to note include:

Chesterfield Festival of Cricket – 11 June – 18 June

The Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council, returns to Queen’s Park this June. The event promises to be the biggest ever festival at the park with Derbyshire facing Yorkshire in the County Championship, starting on Sunday 11 June, before the Falcons take on the Vikings in Vitality Blast action on Sunday 18 June. Find out the latest information visit cricket.derbyshireccc.com/chesterfield-festival-of-cricket

Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival 22 – 23 July from 10.30am to 4.30pm

Being hosted in Queen’s Park for the first time. This event is free for the whole family to enter, and you can enjoy a range of food and entertainment throughout the weekend.

Chesterfield Pride – Sunday 23 July

Attend the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration at Chesterfield Pride on 23 July. This event is happening at Stand Road Park, Chesterfield, and will feature live stage show entertainment.  Find out more about the event and buy your tickets by visiting: www.chesterfieldpride.co.uk

Medieval Fun Day – Tuesday 25 July

The popular Medieval-themed fun day is returning to entertain the crowds on 25 July 2023 10am to 4pm in Chesterfield town centre.

Eat in the Park – Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August

Tickets are on sale now, to find out more about the event’s line up and to buy tickets visit eatinthepark.uk. If you have any questions about the event, please email info@eatinthepark.uk

1940s Market – Thursday 2 November

Crowds are expected to flock to Chesterfield to attend the 1940s market, a great event for all vintage fans. The event is taking place on 2 November, from 10am to 3.30pm to tie in with Chesterfield’s much-loved Flea Market.

Fireworks – Friday 3 November

Chesterfield Borough Council’s annual fireworks extravaganza is due to take place on 3 November and will be an event for the whole family to enjoy. Taking place at Stand Road Recreation Ground, Whittington Moor there will be a range of entertainment on the main stage – as well as the popular fireworks display.

Chesterfield Market and Christmas Lights Switch On – Sunday 19 November

Looking forward to Christmas 2023, the festive Christmas lights switch on is taking place on 19 November from 12 noon to 6pm and will be a great free afternoon out for all the family.

To keep up to date with all of the latest Chesterfield events in 2023 taking place around the borough visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events

Medieval Fun Day 2022

 

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Brand new Tractor Fest event coming to Chesterfield

Around 100 tractors will be on display at a new family-friendly festival coming to Chesterfield this Spring.

Tractor Fest is being organised in support of Ashgate Hospice and is set to take place at the Storforth Lane Industrial Estate in Hasland on 26th March.

From vintage vehicles to modern machinery – there will be a huge collection of tractors on display as well as fun activities, including mini tractor driving, colouring, arts and crafts and more.

The event, which is being held by Harold Lilleker & Sons Ltd in support of the hospice, costs £3 for adults and is free for children under the age of 11.

Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We are delighted to be bringing Tractor Fest to Chesterfield this March in conjunction with Harold Lilleker & Sons.

“We’re so excited about this event as it promises to be a super fun day out for family and friends across North Derbyshire and beyond. Whether you’re a self-confessed petrol head or just looking for a day out with the family, there’ll be plenty on offer to keep you covered.

“The event will be taking place at our retail and fundraising headquarters in Hasland; so once you’ve finished browsing the engines on display, you can pop into our furniture store and clearance shop for a spot of shopping or stop by Ashgate Coffee Co for a cuppa and a bite to eat!”

All proceeds from Tractor Fest will help fund vital care for patients and families who need the care of the hospice.

The charity must raise £8 million each year so it can continue providing palliative and end of life care to people across North Derbyshire.

Pre-purchased tickets are not needed for the event and the entry fee can be paid on the gate.

The event will be taking place between 10am and 3pm. Its location can be found by searching S41 0QD into a satnav.

Any owners of a tractor or other farming vehicles who would like to showcase their vehicles is invited to contact the hospice directly to arrange this.

To find out more about Ashgate Hospice’s Tractor Fest head to the charity’s website at www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/tractor-fest

Alternatively, supporters can contact the hospice’s fundraising team on communityfr@ashgatehospice.org.uk or by calling 01246 567250.

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

tractor fest 2

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Growth for Chesterfield businesses with new appointments and promotions

Several Chesterfield businesses have announced growth, strengthening their teams with new additions and promotions in recent months.

Companies in the digital, legal and professional services sectors have taken on new personnel or promoted from within, showing strong local development despite the tough economic climate nationally.

Hear from our businesses below on how they have bolstered their teams, which includes Central Technology, Bridge Help, Shorts and BRM Solicitors.

Central Technology announces new Managing Director and CEO

rob and ian announcement Central Technology

In order to support its continued growth plans and the development of its national branch network, Central Technology has announced a restructuring of the board team. Rob Longden is set to take over from Ian Snow as Managing Director, whilst Ian will move into a newly created CEO position.

Central Technology has achieved consistent year on year growth over the last 12 years and this change will enable that growth to further accelerate in line with current targets.

Rob has been with Central Technology for 6 years and has spent that time within the sales, operations and service delivery teams, most recently as Commercial Director. Rob has over 30 years of IT industry experience within both SME and corporate sectors developing, implementing and managing service delivery teams, ITIL frameworks and driving service excellence through process and operational controls.

Ian’s move to a full-time CEO role will see him focus on the strategic development of the business and ensuring the exceptionally high levels of customer service are maintained. This new role will draw on his past experience at Deloitte and as a Director at two high growth, market leading lift installation and maintenance businesses.

Ian commented: “Our goal was always to get CT into a position where Rob could take over as Managing Director and utilise his vast industry knowledge to help the business achieve its full potential. I am delighted we have reached the point where we can put this plan into action.”

Rob commented: “It is one of the proudest moments of my professional career to lead this tremendous company and the talented people within it, as well as being able to ensure successful outcomes for our valued customers.

“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and work alongside our team and customers for a number of years. I believe it is this business experience coupled with my industry knowledge that puts me in a unique position to drive Central Technology forward. I am truly excited to see what we can achieve together in the coming months and years.”

Bridge Help makes senior promotion

Kate Snodden Bridge Help

Chesterfield’s commercial finance specialist, Bridge Help has promoted Katie Snodden to the newly created role of Head of Sales.

The promotion recognises the significant contribution Katie has made to the business since she joined as a Business Development Manager in 2021.

In 2022 alone Katie, who lives in Chesterfield, secured more than £8million worth of loans for brokers throughout England and Wales. In her newly created role, she will now lead Bridge Help’s team of Business Development Managers in growing the company’s loan book which it aims to double in 2023.

Chris Sellars, CEO and General Counsel of Bridge Help said: “Katie has built some amazing relationships across the industry, all whilst taking on additional responsibilities within the company. Her appointment is integral to our growth plans for next year and she is absolutely the right person for this role.”

Katie added: “I am thrilled to take on this exciting role. One of the many reasons I joined Bridge Help was the opportunity to grow my career and skillset within the business.”

Katie joined the bridging finance sector from the transport and logistics sector having previously worked within financial services for a large, chartered accountancy firm in London. Her appointment at Bridge Help signalled her return to the financial services sector, which she describes as her ‘first love’.

To further support the firm’s ambitious growth plans, at the end of last year, Bridge Help joined NACFB, the largest trade association for commercial finance brokers in the UK.

BRM Real Estate team strengthened by appointment of new Director

BRM Shoots Chesterfield and Sheffield Employment team

Image Copyright Paul David Drabble

Regional law firm BRM Solicitors has appointed experienced Real Estate Director George Thomson and Paralegal Georgina Kassim to support its clients in Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

Newly appointed Director, George Thomson specialises in agricultural and commercial property and has previously worked with a range of clients from large public sector organisations to smaller owner-managed businesses.

A strong background in agricultural property work enables George to support farmers, agricultural land and property owners, and other rural businesses in all of their property and land transactions.

George said: “I am delighted to re-join BRM as a Director during an exciting period of growth and look forward to contributing to the firm’s continuing success and expansion in the region.”

The team has also welcomed paralegal Georgina Kassim. Georgina will be working alongside George in the Chesterfield office.

Georgina said: “This is an exciting new role with a forward-thinking law firm and I am looking forward to working with the current and new clients”

Sanjeev Batra, Head of Chesterfield Real Estate said: “These recent appointments will help support our growth strategy and ensure the continued high-quality service that we already provide to our clients. George is a highly-skilled lawyer, and I am happy to add his experience and knowledge to our team.”

Shannon Wilson joins Shorts’ Radius team

shannon-wilson-radius

The Shorts team says it is thrilled to have welcomed Shannon Wilson to the Radius R&D Tax Reliefs team. Shannon joins Radius as a Manager, adding further expertise and experience to our specialist R&D tax team.

Shannon joins Shorts after 4 years as a specialist R&D Tax Consultant at a major professional services consultancy firm. Prior to this, she achieved her bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Chester, followed by a master’s degree in Financial Management from Sheffield Hallam University.

On joining the firm as part of the Radius team, Shannon said: “It’s always nerve-racking starting a new job, but I’ve had such a warm welcome from everyone I have met so far. In the short time I’ve been here, everyone has truly made me feel part of the team. I look forward to seeing how I can develop my career further with such a forward-thinking and well-established company as Shorts.

“Shorts has already offered me the opportunities to further expand my skills, knowledge, and capabilities through getting stuck into, not only the preparation of R&D claims but also the internal side of things – demonstrating a culture of openness and the acceptance of new ideas from employees to continually grow the business.”

Scott Burkinshaw, Tax Partner and Head of Radius, was delighted to welcome Shannon to the team: “Radius is built around deep expertise, a proactive ethos, and a passion for great client service. Shannon brings all of this to the Radius team, and I have no doubt she will excel at delivering great service and advice for our clients.”

Central Technology, Bridge Help, BRM Solicitors and Shorts support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New £750,000 walking and cycling route announced for Staveley and Markham Vale

A new walking and cycling route is set to be developed in Staveley, which will connect Markham Vale to the existing cycle route in the town.

The £750,000 investment is part of a wider £7 million fund announced by the government, which will improve a number of areas across the East Midlands region.

The funding which has been given the green light is part of an early investment offered to our area as part of devolution negotiations. It is not dependent on devolution proposals going ahead.

It is part of £18 million on offer from the government to the region for investment in different projects supporting local priorities, which relate to housing, the environment, infrastructure, skills, and transport in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham

The programmes which are being funded are:

  • £750,000 for a new cycling and walking route in Derbyshire, a 1¼ mile link connecting Markham Vale to the existing cycle route in Staveley.
  • £1.5 million for the new roundabout on the A6 at Fairfield in Buxton, Derbyshire, allowing access to housing development land. The roundabout provides access to sites for 461 new homes, including 30% classified as affordable. It also brings work to an area of social deprivation. This work has been completed, with the funding which has just been approved going towards the cost.
  • £1.5 million for a new growth through green skills. The investment will enable the creation of a new £5.4 million flagship skills centre and low carbon demonstrator in our region, to be operated by West Nottinghamshire College, as well as two electric minibuses for getting students to and from the site, to support the growth of a future low carbon economy as we work towards net zero.
  • £2 million for a new long-term private rental scheme to address homelessness in Nottingham City and Derby City and reduce the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for housing.
  • £1.22 million for more affordable housing in Derby city, where there is currently a shortage, to provide 15 extra social houses to be let at an affordable rent. It will mean less reliance on temporary bed and breakfast placements and shorter waiting times for longer-term accommodation.

Other regeneration and net zero projects are also in the pipeline, with decisions on these expected soon.

Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council have been working with the Government on devolution plans including a package of local powers and funding worth £1.14 billion, from 2024. If the plans go ahead, it would also mean a new regional mayor.

The leaders of the 4 councils signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at Rolls Royce in Derby. Since August, the councils have developed a more detailed proposal, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area. The proposal was the subject of a public consultation, which took place from 14 November 2022 to 9 January 2023.

Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “The approval of these projects is a solid example of the benefits that devolution are bringing to our region.

“These schemes will make a measurable difference to people’s quality of life through opportunities to gain new skills, environmental and health benefits from walking and cycling, better housing and new infrastructure.

“This is the East Midlands levelling up, and finally getting the benefits that we have missed in the past.”

Devolution would mean a new guaranteed funding stream for our region of £38 million a year over a 30-year period. Covering Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham, the devolved area would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one of the biggest in the country.

The devolution deal includes an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land and control over a range of budgets like the Adult Education Budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

The regional mayor would lead a new combined authority, which would include representatives from existing local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

Devolution would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

The public consultation on devolution, open to residents, businesses, community groups and other organisations, took place from 14 November to the 9 January.

 

Markham Vale Staveley

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Superior Wellness launches new Platinum Spas Deluxe Range

Chesterfield hot tub manufacturer Superior Wellness has launched a range of new products, which are set to be unveiled at the UK’s leading pool, spa and wellness show today.

The Platinum Spas Deluxe Range boasts premium features and upgrades – introducing the Tahiti, Refresh, Happy, Palma and the brand new all seater Seville.

With a brand-new look and feel the Deluxe range has changed with a more aesthetically pleasing design with the curvature of the acrylic. Designed with comfort in mind the seats are now sculpted and shaped around your body.

For a cleaner look the control panel is now solely located on one side without the distraction of other components and features. Featuring more modern and premium looking side panels complete with an LED Platinum Spas logo the new models are certainly more stylish.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director said: “The Deluxe range now includes the award-winning energy efficient insulation Platinum Premium Shield. This is designed by the Superior Heatlock Insulation Process which provides a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs.

“With a focus on innovation, the latest technology and an abundance of features, the new range includes a number of improvements.”

The jets and diverters have been upgraded promoting a better hydrotherapy massage.

The audio system has also improved with brand new speakers which are located on top of the acrylic rather than on side panels, giving the Deluxe range a more modern look and feel.

The hot tub cover is now fabric instead of vinyl. We’ve also increased the overall thickness of the cover providing greater insulation and creating energy savings.

The new deluxe range has also been CEC tested which shows the commitment to being more energy efficient. The circ pump has also been upgraded to a new circulation pump, which is much quieter and more energy efficient.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director at Superior Wellness: “We are very excited about the launch of the new Deluxe range.

“The Seville hot tub is brand new in the range and an all seater spa.  All seater hot tubs are very popular, particularly in the US. They are perfect for families and friends who want to spend time relaxing and enjoying the hot tub together.”

“We always listen to feedback from our customers and partner network to help inform our decisions on innovation.”

The Platinum Spas brand continues to innovate every year with new models being introduced to ensure they offer the very best in technology and design, with a wide choice to suit every budget.

For more information on becoming an authorised Platinum Spas partner or would like to find your nearest Platinum Spas showroom, visit the Platinum Spas website today.

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.

superior wellness exterior

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Derbyshire and the Peak District promoted to the world at major travel events

Derbyshire and the Peak District has been promoted to the world at three major travel events last week.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the delights of the destination to thousands of consumers and travel trade buyers at events in Dublin and London to showcase the area’s tourism offer.

As international travel begins to increase, the area’s official destination management organisation has been working hard to keep the Peak District and Derbyshire front and centre in the minds of potential visitors and the world’s leading travel trade operators.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire showcased the destination to an estimated 40,000 visitors at Ireland’s biggest annual travel exhibition, the Holiday World Show, in Dublin and also met with key international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event and the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, both held in London.

While capturing demand from the rise in domestic staycations has been a key part of their recovery marketing efforts, keeping international markets warm has been just as important, and the Holiday World Show (27th-29th January) was the first large-scale opportunity the organisation has had since the pandemic to promote the Peak District and Derbyshire to overseas visitors and travel trade buyers.

Visitors to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire stand were given information on the destination’s vibrant tourism offer and had the chance to taste quality local produce with whisky samples from Ambergate-based White Peak Distillery. Visitors also had the opportunity to win tickets to Chatsworth, an iconic cultural attraction for international tourists.

In a further boost, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the destination to international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event on 26th January before meeting with overseas tour operators and travel trade buyers at the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, in partnership with UKinbound and the European Tour Operators Association (EOTA), on 27th January.

The events provided a valuable opportunity to forge new relationships with key travel trade decision makers and promote bookable product – ranging from group accommodation to sustainable experiences – to hundreds of international buyers.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Increasing international travel to the Peak District and Derbyshire is crucial for the recovery and growth of the visitor economy. Being part of these important face-to-face events helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for both international visitors and key travel trade buyers, inspiring visits from overseas markets which are continuing to build their confidence about returning to the UK again.

“There are lots of potential opportunities for the area to benefit from some big events happening in 2023, with international visitors expected to take a keen interest in both the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool and King Charles III’s Coronation, which gives us plenty of reasons to shout about the Peak District and Derbyshire as a must-visit holiday destination.”

Hot on the heels of these successful events, the organisation is also registered to attend VisitBritain’s flagship event ExploreGB, which brings together hand-picked international buyers from over 30 markets and the best of the UK travel trade.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s work to increase international visitor numbers is in line with its key aims to drive visitor spend, boost overnight stays, and extend the tourism season.

Inbound tourism has been identified as a key driver of recovery and economic growth and VisitBritain predicts international visits to the UK will total 35.1 million in 2023 (86% of 2019 levels), with a spend of £29.5 billion (104% of 2019 levels).

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire is a committed member of UKinbound, a trade organisation that represents the UK’s inbound tourism sector. Tourism businesses interested in working with the travel trade should contact industry@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Peak District and Derbyshire promoted in London and Dublin

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Peak District Highland Games recognised with national award

A major event in North Derbyshire, which attracts thousands of visitors each year has scooped a prestigious national award. The Peak District Highland Games, hosted by Matlock Farm Park and Man Beast Strongman Events won the ‘Best Event ‘ prize at the 2023 National Farm Attractions Network awards.

The coveted ceremony shines a light on farm parks all over the country who have membership with the highly-regarded organisation.

Lotty Hawkins, Assistant Manager at Matlock Farm Park commented: Matlock Farm Park is just thrilled to win the Best Event award from NFAN, with such strong competition from the best farm parks in the land.

“There’s such a large amount of preparation in the build up to the day, compared to other events we host, for instance setting up extra catering and stalls, grandstand seating, organising sponsors, promotion including our big social media prize giveaway campaign and more, but it is entirely worth it because it is such a special and unique event.

“Not only is it the farm park’s flagship event, but it’s a key Summer event for the region, gaining more of a following each year. Our team work so hard on the day, but they really enjoy the camaraderie of it all!

“It’s all with thanks of course to the super Man Beast organisers and athletes with their planning and delivery. Each year the strong men and women blow us and the crowd away by going the extra mile with all their might in events such as the Eight Tonne Tractor Pull, Tossing of the Caber and Peak Dinnie Stone Challenge. The children spectators in particular feel so inspired watching the athletes do their very best and of course, they love having photos taken with these real life ‘superheroes’.

“The wonderful, cheering spectators who come to enjoy the day with us really make the event special and we would like to thank everyone who supports Matlock Farm Park and The Peak District Highland Games.”

Andy Picken, Founder of Man Beast Strongman Events commented: “We are immensely proud that the Peak District Highland Games has won this prestigious award.

“Together with Matlock Park, Man Beast Strongman Events have created a truly unique national event combining the sport of strongman with the classic Highland Games for the Peak District National Park.

“The Athletes train throughout the year for these games, not only to chase the win but also entertain the amazing crowd and we thank every single one of them for the  commitment and performance they bring each year.”

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

Peak District Highland Games Tug of War 873

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£1.3 million support announced for our region’s creative businesses

Chesterfield’s creative businesses are being encouraged to apply for free support, which will allow them to accelerate business growth, create jobs and prepare for investment.

Part of a programme of support regionally, the East Midlands Creative Consortium (EMC²) has today (Monday 23rd January) began accepting applications from high-potential creative businesses after being awarded more than £1.3 million of Government funding.

EMC² has commenced its regional project across Derby and Derbyshire, Leicester and Leicestershire, Rutland, and Greater Lincolnshire.

It is backed by a coalition of partners including regional universities, Innovate UK, local businesses, and non-profit organisations.

The EMC² website is now live and accepting applications from local creative organisations. The programme starts in the Spring and runs to 2025.

It aims to support 100 creative businesses in four cohort groups across the three years. Around 50 creative organisations have already made early-stage expressions of interest.

EMC² is available to growing creative businesses operating in:

  • Advertising and marketing
  • Architecture
  • Crafts design and designer fashion
  • Film, tv, video and radio
  • Photography
  • IT, gaming, software and computer services
  • Publishing
  • Museums, galleries and libraries

Led by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), the consortium provided one of six successful regional bids for the Government’s Create Growth Programme.

Andy Reed OBE, LLEP Co-Chair, said: “The creative sector has created almost 4,000 jobs since 2010 in Leicester and Leicestershire alone. The vast majority of those jobs are in microbusinesses and Create Growth will help these high-potential employers to scale up.”

Applicants will also gain the opportunity to go on and apply for finance support from a £7m Government fund delivered by Innovate UK.

Creative industries are worth more than £100 billion to the UK economy and account for 2.3 million jobs.

Please note that this funding application is only open to businesses in Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland, and Greater Lincolnshire.

Click here for more information about applying for Create Growth with EMC²

west studios creative businesses

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Chesterfield drinks producer launches new low-calorie VK range

A Chesterfield drinks manufacturer has announced the launch of a new low-calorie product, tapping into the growing demand for healthier options.

Global Brands has announced the development of VK & Soda Lime and VK & Soda Berries, which will be launched into venues stocking VK, including NUS venues, as well as into wholesalers for the On Trade.

The two new fruity flavours contain fewer calories than the primary VK range and zero sugar.

The varieties are based on two of the UK’s favourite drinks – ‘Blue’, the UK’s best-selling RTD flavour in alcopops, and vodka, lime, and soda, the classic ‘& soda’ bar call. Each VK & Soda contains 56 calories.

The launch comes as CGA data reveals 84% of Gen Z consumers are looking for healthier options on menus when drinking out, and more consumers are generally looking for zero sugar and lower calorie drinks.

Hard seltzers, the go-to lower calorie beverage in the USA, have fallen flat in the UK however – UK sales of hard seltzers lag behind the expanding global market, which hit $16.36bn in 2022, despite clear demand for zero sugar, lower calorie options from UK consumers – with lack of flavour being a key barrier.

While many hard seltzer brands opt for a fermented sugar base, VK & SODA uses a real vodka base, adding to that crisp and clean taste that consumers expect from vodka drinks.

The launch of VK & SODA is set to engage with RTD consumers, as well as attracting a rapidly expanding segment of consumers to the category that opt for beverages with fewer calories than typical RTDs and zero sugar.

Charlie Leaver, Head of Brand at Global Brands Ltd, commented: “VK & SODA is the pre-mixed drink delivering full flavour and a zesty, crisp taste, with 56 calories and zero sugar. Consumers can have the party vibes and fruitiness that come with a VK, with fewer calories than our iconic, No.1 drink for students.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to release this true innovation for the category – a product enticing the rapidly growing segment of health-conscious consumers, with the full flavour and taste that VK delivers.

“With Gen Z consumers looking for zero sugar and lower calorie options, ensuring that your premises provides this choice is vital to cross-selling existing customers and attracting a new segment to the growing RTD market.

“The variety of flavours in the VK range attracts and retains Gen Z consumers, with the typical flavour choice of an 18-24 consumer varying daily. Following our hugely successful rebrand last year, we’ve strengthened the identity of each flavour in the VK line-up, and have boosted the appeal of the range to Gen Z consumers with these exciting, proven favourite flavours.”

The consumer launch will be kicked off with the VK Refreshers Tour across 16 Universities through January and February, with each date giving students the chance to be amongst the first to try VK & SODA and take home prized VK Merch. This brand in hand experience of VK & SODA creates a buzz and excitement in venue and across campus.

VK & SODA Berries and VK & SODA Lime are available in 275ml PET and glass bottles, and have an ABV of 3.4%.

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

VK Soda Launch 2022 GREEN

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Shadow Minister for Skills & Further Education visits Chesterfield’s new Heat Pump Training Academy

Chesterfield’s MP and the Shadow Minister for Skills and Further Education recently paid a visit to NIBE’s newly refurbished Training Academy in the area.

Toby Perkins MP met with NIBE’s Managing Director Phil Hurley, where they held discussions on the role of heat pumps in decarbonising the economy and the need to upskill the installer base to meet net zero targets.

Mr Toby Perkins was also given a tour around the firm’s latest heat pump products and smart solutions. The refurbished training centre will provide for increasing the available heat pump installer base in the UK.

Mr Perkins’ visit provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of upskilling the new generation of installers and engineers on the route to net zero – and the drive needed to meet the government’s target of 600,000 heat pump installs per year by 2028.

The Shadow Minister for Skills & Further Education commented: “I was delighted to visit NIBE’s new training academy and very pleased that they have chosen to further invest in Chesterfield. Green investment is vital to the future of our economy and our ability to meet our Net Zero commitments and fight climate change.

“The development of new technologies, such as advanced heat pumps, also requires the development of new skills in the workforce. The NIBE training academy will help provide the next generation of skilled engineers in this sector and provide vital new job opportunities locally.  I look forward to watching their progress and hope to come back and meet some of the people who have been trained here in Chesterfield.”

The NIBE Training Academy in Chesterfield is currently taking bookings for best-in-class comprehensive installation, commissioning, and servicing and maintenance courses, alongside the NIBE Pro installer partnership scheme, providing MCS & NAPIT recognised and Ofqual regulated training and technical support.

The visit follows the academy’s grand re-opening in December, where NIBE was joined by The Worshipful Mayor of Chesterfield Tony Rogers and his wife Mayoress Sharon Rogers for the unveiling. Attendees got the chance to gain greater insight into the low carbon training opportunities available as NIBE called for a growing installer base.

NIBE Managing Director Phil Hurley said: “It was a pleasure to once again meet our local Chesterfield MP, Toby Perkins, on Friday and to show him around our flagship Training Academy. We held productive talks on the vital need to expand the heat pump installer base in order to meet Government installation targets and how our products will contribute to producing more sustainable heating across the country.”

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

Phil Hurley meets Toby Perkins MP

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One Waterside Place office development opens in Chesterfield

A major regeneration scheme in Chesterfield has announced the opening of a brand new six storey office development. One Waterside Place, part of the flagship Chesterfield Waterside development, was officially opened on Thursday 26 January by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The impressive new building, which has become a striking new feature of the local skyline, features six floors of ‘Grade A’ office space with a ground floor retail unit and has already drawn in new investment to the town.

Accountancy firm BHP moved into the building in November 2022, and were closely followed by leading woman’s leisurewear company Varley in January 2023.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The opening of this new development is a key milestone for the £340 million Chesterfield Waterside regeneration project. One Waterside Place represents our ambition to build a thriving borough and create new opportunities for our residents.

One Waterside Place opening

“Our first tenants have already moved in and I look forward to welcoming more businesses to the building over the next year.”

BHP Partner Dominic Staniforth said: “The new office is an excellent space that provides first-class facilities for our team, with an array of restaurants, cafés and shops close by. I know I can speak on behalf of my Chesterfield colleagues when I say that we’re proud to be the first tenants in such a prestigious building and we look forward to being in our new home for many years to come.”

One Waterside Place provides bespoke office accommodation for established businesses – offering a modern, high-quality base for ambitious companies looking to grow and thrive in a central and well-connected location.

The 35,000 sq.ft. building delivers Grade A, large floorplate office accommodation, which does not exist elsewhere in Chesterfield. The building incorporates two passenger lifts, raised access flooring, air conditioning, LED lighting, a high-quality entrance foyer, showers, on-site cycle parking facilities as well as attractive public realm and landscaping.

The building has been designed with sustainability in mind, boasting a BREEAM score of Very Good and an EPC A rating for its energy performance. The ground floor has been designed to create a new retail or leisure space close to the train station.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Managing Director of Bolsterstone Group Plc, which project managed the delivery of the office and is delivering the Chesterfield Waterside scheme, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver this landmark building.

“Britcon began construction of One Waterside Place amidst the pandemic which brought many challenges in terms of staffing, health and safety and supply of materials. However, they have delivered an exceptional building which they have also used as a learning experience for local students during the build, following an initiative from the council.”

One Waterside place

One Waterside Place sits within the £75 million first phase of the Basin Square neighbourhood of the £340million Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme. Once complete, the Basin Square neighbourhood will also comprise 320 Built-to-Rent apartments, a 400-space multi-storey car park, a 140-bed hotel, retail and leisure units.

This area will be landscaped to a high quality standard with the canal basin being at the heart of the scheme, creating a great environment to spend time in on the edge of the town centre alongside a central community hub for occupiers and residents of the Chesterfield Waterside scheme.

The canal basin site has been brought forward with support from the South Yorkshire Combined Authority Infrastructure Fund. One Waterside Place was funded by Chesterfield Borough Council.

Knight Frank and Derby-based FHP Property Consultants are letting agents for the office space at Chesterfield Waterside. For information or to view the remaining space contact Peter Whiteley at Knight Frank on 0114 272 9750 or Darran Severn at FHP Property Consultants 01332 343 222.

To find out more about the wide range of office spaces in Chesterfield, whether you’re a start-up or looking to expand, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

BHP, Bolsterstone Group, and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

One Waterside Place peter swallow Tricia Gilby

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