Leisure

Marks and Spencer confirms expansion into larger Chesterfield store

Retail giant Marks and Spencer has committed further to its future in Chesterfield, by announcing plans to expand into a larger premises in the town.

The company has officially announced it will be moving to the former Debenhams store on the Ravenside Retail Park, which is a purpose built unit. It means M&S will be expanding its range of food, clothing and homeware to shoppers in Chesterfield.

Craig Baldock, Regional Manager for M&S said: “We’re excited to announce our plans to open a brand new, larger M&S store at Ravenside Retail Park, which will offer local customers in Chesterfield a much bigger range of M&S products across our Foodhall and Clothing & Home departments. The new store will be finished and open to customers later this year.

“We believe this is the right decision to ensure we can deliver the very best M&S offer for customers in Chesterfield and the wider local area. We will keep the community updated as the works progress.

“Shopping habits are changing, so we’re rotating our store estate and this investment in Chesterfield is part of our work to ensure we have the right stores to offer our customers a brilliant shopping experience.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Marks and Spencer moving to Ravenside Retail Park represents a significant investment in our borough, creating more jobs and demonstrating confidence in the growth of the local economy. A new, expanded M&S store will mean they can offer a wider range of products and have a modern store that is fit for the future.

“Whilst the move is disappointing for our high street, we are making significant investments in this area to ensure we can create a modern, vibrant visitor destination which builds confidence in the town – including our ambitious town centre regeneration plans which are moving forward after we secured nearly £20m from the Government’s levelling up fund.

“The council does not own the building currently occupied by Marks and Spencer but we will work with them and the landlord to explore alternative uses for this key town centre building.”

The move is the latest in a line of new openings and expansions into the town, such as Rebel Menswear, Boba Shack and Pizza Pi.

To find out more about the fantastic range of independent retailers and nationally recognised brands in our town, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

The Goldsmith Clinic announces growth with new treatment rooms

A Chesterfield clinic offering a wide range of medical skincare and aesthetic treatments to support peoples’ wellbeing has expanded it’s premises, enabling more capacity and availability of treatments.

The Goldsmith Clinic was founded by respected registered nurse practitioner Theresa Goldsmith in 2015, before moving to Lordsmill Street in Chesterfield Town Centre in 2019.

Now, following three years of continued success, the clinic has opened two new treatment rooms, and Theresa says she’s delighted to see the growth of the business, despite the recent challenges created by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“A short time after moving into this building, we went into lockdown so there were times we had to adapt the way we were working. predominantly, I moved back into general practice to work as an Advanced Nurse Practicioner.

“But since we’ve come back after lockdown, we’ve been really busy, the business has grown. We’ve had the renovation, we’ve taken on a new therapist and introduced a lot of new treatments such as skin remodeling; something which Judy Murray had done earlier on in the year!”

Theresa also reiterated the importance of continuing to support local, independent businesses across Chesterfield: “Please continue to do what you’re doing. The support we have had has been phenomenal. I’m very grateful to our client group because they’ve come back bigger and stronger than they were before.

“Spread the word about local businesses, word of mouth works really well. What we want to see in Chesterfield is ongoing growth. We want to see the high street thriving so anything you can do to support local businesses is really helpful.”

Find out more about Chesterfield’s wide range of fabulous, independent town centre businesses at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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

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

Shoe Zone to open new store in Chesterfield this April

UK footwear retailer Shoe Zone, is set to open a new store in Chesterfield on 1st April.

Located on the popular Packers Row, in the heart of Chesterfield town centre, the brand-new location will be offering a wide selection of footwear and accessories for men, women and children.

The new store will, for the first time ever, be stocking popular brands such as Lotus, Heavenly Feet, Jana Softline, S’Oliver and Gola, as well as Shoe Zone’s signature affordable shoe and accessory range.

Shoe Zone’s new Chesterfield store will give shoppers easy access to some of the most in-demand shoes of the season. From walking boots to canvas shoes to cosy slippers, it will feature something for everyone, for every occasion and for every budget.

Lisa Carline will continue her role as store manager. Opening Monday to Saturday 9am – 5:00pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm, the newest addition to Shoe Zone’s growing portfolio of stores will provide more choice for shoppers in the local area.

Anthony Smith, Chief Executive at Shoe Zone, said: “We’re excited to launch the new store in Chesterfield and offer customers access to our popular range of trendy and affordable shoes and accessories.

“We’ll be offering shoppers a fantastic selection of offers and styles, from brands such as Heavenly Feet and S’Oliver, perfect for the spring season. We can’t wait to welcome customers, old and new, into the store!”

Shoe Zone’s new Chesterfield store opens on 1st April. Shoppers are reminded that the UK retailer offers both a student discount and a public sector discount, in-store and online.

Packer’s Row recently welcomed another new store, with Rebel Menswear expanding into the former Greggs bakery unit after trading for many years at their former Burlington Street premises. Find out more.

Chesterfield Town Centre is home to many retailers, from nationally recognised brands to dozens of quirky, independent shops. Find out more about shopping in our historic town centre and market at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

 

 

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Matlock Farm Park’s George Finlay wins national Tourism Superstar award

Matlock Farm Park’s George Finlay is celebrating after being announced as VisitEngland’s 2022 Tourism Superstar.

22-year-old farm supervisor George saw off tough competition from nine other finalists across England to be crowned the winner, receiving 29% of the public vote and becoming the competition’s youngest winner to date.

The Tourism Superstar award was launched by national tourism agency VisitEngland and The Mirror 10 years ago to recognise the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry.

George was nominated for his enthusiasm, passion, knowledge and dedication – attributes that win him regular praise in visitor reviews. His responsibilities include looking after the health and welfare of animals, interacting with visitors and running informative animal-based activities such as wallaby encounters and meerkat talks.

George is particularly passionate about the mental health benefits of animals and when Matlock Farm Park was closed during Covid restrictions, he was the driving force behind the creation of weekly Facebook Live broadcasts to entertain visitors with uplifting content.

In addition, George actively seeks to encourage younger visitors to have a love for animals and with his beaming smile and friendly approach, he goes out of his way to ensure people of all ages and abilities have a memorable day.

The announcement comes after George won Silver in the Tourism Young Achiever category at the Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards earlier this month.

Reacting to news of his win, George said: “I am over the moon to have won the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar award. I feel so lucky to work in a job where I can share my passion for animals with visitors of all ages and winning this national award, which is voted for by members of the public, is a huge honour.

“The Peak District and Derbyshire is an incredible destination, with so much to offer visitors, and I’m delighted that I get to play a small role in helping people to have memorable experiences. Thank you to everyone who voted!”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “At just 22 years old, George is a fantastic ambassador for our vibrant tourism sector and we’re delighted to see him win this prestigious national award.

“George embodies all that is great about working in the Peak District and Derbyshire’s tourism industry – he is friendly, helpful and engages with people of all ages with a view to making their trip special. A huge well done to George and thank you to everyone who voted.”

Andrew Stokes, Director of VisitEngland, said: “Tourism Superstar recognises the people who go the extra mile to create standout visitor experiences, and each finalist has gone above and beyond for tourists. George has clinched the title thanks to his tireless work in ensuring visitors to Matlock Farm Park gave the best time whilst making sure the animals have all they need.

“During Covid, he also extended the healing reach of the animals into people’s homes with his live streams, from lambing to feeding, supporting people to feel connected. Many thanks to all our finalists and to everyone who took the time to take part in the voting.”

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

The Pomegranate Theatre to support Ukraine with charity film screening

The Pomegranate Theatre in Chesterfield is joining cinemas across the UK to support Ukraine.

A charity screening of Olga, a new film about a young female Ukrainian gymnast forced to train in exile, will be held on Thursday 31 March at 7.30pm.

From each ticket sold, a donation will be made to support Ukraine, with donations going to The Disasters Emergency Committee.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re proud to support the charity screenings of Olga taking place across the UK. For the last few weeks, we have all been thinking of the people of Ukraine as we observe in silence and disbelief the tragic consequences of Russia’s actions. This film screening offers us the opportunity to understand more about Ukraine but also raise funds for the Disasters Emergency Committee who are doing vital work to support the Ukrainian people at this time.”

Olga’s lead actress, Anastasia Budiashkina, who arrived in Poland after leaving Kharkiv in Ukraine to escape the war, said: “I am very glad that Olga will be seen in the UK, and people will see the situation going on with Ukraine. Everyone involved with Olga worked very hard, and I put a part of myself into the film. I hope everyone will enjoy Olga.”

The film tells the story of fifteen-year-old Olga, a promising Ukrainian gymnast who is exiled in Switzerland but as she prepares for the European Championships the Ukrainian people stage a revolution. Can Olga reconcile her personal goals with the history unfolding in her homeland?

A subtle, tense drama it has received praise from critics.

The previews are a result of a partnership from 606 Distribution and the BFI, with support from the UK Cinema Association.

Tickets for the screening can be purchased on the Chesterfield Theatres website: https://chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/olga

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

New Chesterfield care home includes luxurious cinema, hair salon, tea room and bar

A brand-new care home in Chesterfield will provide its residents with a number of luxurious facilities, after being officially opened earlier this month.

Belvedere House is a brand new purpose-built residential care home based in the heart of Chesterfield, situated on St Augustine’s Road. It was officially unveiled in a grand opening attended by the mayor of Chesterfield, Cllr Glenys Falconer on Saturday, 19th March.

The facility built by Crown Care Group will provide luxurious living accommodation, with 64 bedrooms as well as a range of facilities for residents to enjoy including a cinema, tea room, bar/ brasserie, garden room, hair salon and extensive landscaped gardens.

The home will generate up to 50 jobs within the local area when it is at maximum capacity.

Claire Adsetts, Customer Relations Manager for Crown Care Group said: “We are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to provide the very best care within a luxury setting, the whole team are keen to provide a professional service while also creating a home from home feel for our residents.

“We are extremely proud of the home and feel you really need to see it to believe the five star hotel feel that has been created. We are currently open to viewings and look forward to becoming an integral part of the local community.”

Claire added that providing quality care for people in the town is of great importance: “The care sector is an integral part health and social care, ensuring choice and the right care are available to all. Providing a brand new home with up to date luxury facilities will offer a choice to people who are looking for a care home but feel they have yet to find a home that provides luxury accommodation at an affordable price.

“Our initial team have now been recruited but we are keen to accept applications across all roles within the home for our next phase of recruitment.”

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

Peak Edge Hotel receives go-ahead for hotel expansion and luxury spa

Derbyshire’s premium, four-star Peak Edge Hotel, has just been granted planning permission to expand the existing hotel and build a luxury spa.

The application for planning was approved on March 22nd, which will see an additional 27 bedrooms, in addition to a large spa facility featuring a range of experiences including a heated, indoor-outdoor hydro pool, sauna, steam rooms, several treatment rooms, and its own dedicated café bar.

The development follows huge efforts over the last 18 months to renovate and expand the hotel and adjoining 2 AA rosette awarded restaurant, Red Lion. Works already completed include an expansion of the existing Orangery Suite into the new Oak Room; additional restoration works to the property’s second function suite, The Walton; an expansion of the Red Lion restaurant and additional back of house and office space.

Owner Steve Perez said: “This is the exciting next phase in building a stunning destination for visitors to Derbyshire and for the local community. The extended hotel and luxury spa facility will be built to blend into the existing countryside and will be designed to the most exacting standards. We’re hoping to build a hotel and spa that exceeds expectations of all our guests, present and future”.

With planning permission now approved, updates on the plans, designs, and timings will be shared throughout the process.  Building work is likely to start in late Autumn, ideally in October, with completion expected by November 2023.

To find out more about Peak Edge Hotel visit www.peakedgehotel.co.uk

Recently, the hotel was commended as the best wedding venue in Derbyshire, after scooping the accolade at the 2022 Hitched Wedding Awards.

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

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

Recruitment Event returns to Chesterfield Market

People searching for work in Northern Derbyshire are being invited to a recruitment event, where they can meet employers and find out more about local job vacancies and training schemes that lead to employment.

The recruitment event is on Wednesday 30 March between 10am and 12pm in Chesterfield market place. Following on from two previous successful events held last year, Chesterfield Borough Council and DWP Jobcentre Plus are partnering with Bolsover District Council and North East Derbyshire District Council, to ensure it provides the right opportunities for local job seekers.

Previous events, held in September and November last year, have led to around 100 job offers with almost 80 people starting a new job thanks to the recruitment events.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The events last year showed that job seekers want to engage directly with businesses to find out more about the opportunities available to them. We are pleased to be able to host events such as this, that can help individuals find out more about the jobs available locally. It’s important that we continue to help promote the many opportunities in the area to local people and working with our partners will help ensure we can bring more people and more employers together.

“If you’re looking for work, then this event is here for you. You will be able to find out more about current opportunities and may even find your next job on the day.”

Paul Munday, Employer Adviser at DWP Jobcentre Plus Derbyshire, said: “After the success of the last two recruitment events held in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, we are very excited to be running a third on Wednesday 30 March with further support from North East Derbyshire District Council and Bolsover District Council. This event will be a great opportunity to support the DWP’s Way to Work Programme and give north Derbyshire Residents the opportunity to speak to local employers and find sustainable employment.”

Councillor Jeremy Kenyon, North East Derbyshire District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth said, “We have hosted some fantastic online job fairs previously with our partners, helping to secure employment for our local communities.

“This next jobs fair is a great way for local businesses to take part and share their vacancies with us so we can help residents with employment opportunities and progress their career to the next level”.

Cabinet member for economic growth at Bolsover District Council Councillor Liz Smyth said: “It is so important to provide opportunities for people to engage directly with employers and learn more about what opportunities are out there. Holding this jobs fair in person means job seekers can meet recruiters and make those vitally important connections which could lead to employment.”

The drop-in event is open to everyone, with no need to make an appointment, but job seekers registered with Jobcentre Plus can reserve their place by speaking with their work coach.

There will be lots of opportunities available on the day from a range of sectors including, hospitality, social care, engineering, logistics, transport and many more.

As well as job opportunities there will also be several apprenticeship providers who are currently recruiting for new apprentices. An apprenticeship offers a great opportunity to earn while you learn and can help people at any stage in life.

Derbyshire Careers Service will also be attending the event to promote training courses but also advise job seekers on how they can get support with their CV and interview techniques.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

The Derbyshire Times to offer money saving vouchers at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

The Derbyshire Times is teaming up with local retailers to encourage readers to support Chesterfield town centre businesses – and save them money at the same time.

The paper is running a set of vouchers in its March 17 edition which will give readers the chance to claim money off purchases at stores at the Vicar Lane, as well as free drinks – and even free parking at the shopping centre’s car park.

Derbyshire Times editor Phil Bramley said: “We know the cost of living crisis is hitting us all – as well as our local town centre shops, as customers count the pennies.

“That’s why we’re launching the new campaign to help support our high street – AND save readers money when they spend with local businesses.

“The aim is simple, we are encouraging all readers to make a conscious decision to shop locally and spend some time and money with Chesterfield’s shops, businesses and independent traders.

“In return, they’re offering exclusive money-saving deals to thank you for your support, and to help us all with the rising cost of living.

“The vouchers are valid at a number or stores on Vicar Lane, from a free cuppa at the Vintage Tearooms to money off the latest fashion from Ministry and Bon Marche, there are great offers to save your cash – whilst you support your local high street too..”

For more details, see this week’s Derbyshire Times or visit www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/business

Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is a modern, open-air shopping centre home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield town centre: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/chesterfield-town-centre/

The Derbyshire Times and Vicar Lane Shopping Centre support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

(Above photo) Vicar Lane Shopping Centre (Top Right photo) Phil Bramley, Derbyshire Times Editor

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Chesterfield ranked as second best place in the UK to raise a family

A study has Chesterfield as one of the best towns in the country to bring up Children.

The town ranked 2nd in a list of the 50 best towns and cities in the analysis carried out by children’s electric car supplier, Electric Ride-on cars.

The company said: “By analysing multiple factors across towns and cities in England, such as schools, homes, childcare, and quality of life the best places to raise a family have been revealed.”

Chesterfield came just behind Lincoln which topped the list, but came above the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool, Nottingham, London and Leeds to name a few.

The article states: “The Derbyshire town of Chesterfield is the second-best place to raise a family with a score of 7.18, which is 2.21 higher than the average score. There are almost 30 schools per square mile on average in the Chesterfield area, it also scores well for safety and air quality.”

Chesterfield also ranked highly in terms of air quality and safety – with 87.5 and 75.49 out of 100 respectively – both key factors to consider when it comes to raising happy and healthy children.

You can see the full survey here.

The ranking follows analysis in 2021 by Rightmove, which found that Chesterfield is the happiest town in the East Midlands. Find out more about the study here.

Rightmove data also saw a surge in people and families looking to relocate to Chesterfield and use the town as a commuter base, with great transport links to nearby Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby. The town is also commutable to London by train in under two hours, with a direct service from the town running to St. Pancras International.

To find out more about the great quality of life on offer in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

The town’s business community are set to come together to celebrate achievements across Chesterfield and the rapid regeneration and growth currently taking place next week, (Wednesday 23rd March 2022) at the sold-out Celebrate Chesterfield 2022. Find out more.

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

Dozens of Chesterfield businesses given online boost by Digital High Street project

Chesterfield businesses have been given a helping hand to boost their confidence and skills to trade online as part of an innovative project – with tailor-made advice designed to build resilience if their physical buildings are forced to close in a crisis.

Chesterfield Borough Council teamed up with East Midlands Chamber to launch the Chesterfield Digital High Street in June 2021 and the project has since helped 84 local businesses to make the most of their presence online. It offers support and guidance on using online tools but can also provide funding for e-commerce websites.

TwelfthCraft is a retail emporium based in The Shambles specialising in dolls houses, miniatures, accessories, curios and gifts. Since joining the project Caroline Gleadall, who owns and manages the store has created an online presence which has led to a 10% increase in sales and has developed a plan to further expand her business over the next three years.

Caroline said: “Thanks to the project, I feel like I’ve already achieved so much. I’ve developed the confidence to pay for Facebook advertising, and the time I’m committing to my social media presence has provided lots of new connections, allowed me to contact my customers, and given them the opportunity to leave reviews I’m about to launch my new e-commerce website which will help me reach new markets.”

The project is open to businesses across the borough. Brampton Brewery is a long-established micro-brewery based on Chatsworth Road but they have benefitted through the Digital High Street project.

Chris Radford, managing director and head brewer, explained: “We have received grant funding through the project for a new website with enhanced e-commerce functionality. Once launched, we hope to see significant growth in our online sales.

“To any business considering getting involved, I’d say this – just do it! There really is no reason not to. You’ll have access to a wide range of advice and services from industry specialists who just want to see you succeed.”

Councillor Dean Collins, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, said: “It’s been a really difficult time for local businesses during the pandemic – many which were left with limited options to trade when Covid-19 forced their buildings to close.

“We’ve been committed to supporting local businesses weather this unprecedented time, and it’s fantastic that so many are already benefitting from this project and realising their full potential. Thank you to East Midlands Chamber for their support and work on this project. If you run a local business there is still time to sign up and find out how you could grow your business online.”

East Midlands Chamber head of enterprise Paul Stuart said: “Purchasing habits have changed as a result of Covid-19, with fewer in-store visitors and a move towards online transactions.

“We expect this to be a long-term shift, so it’s vital that businesses ensure they see this as an opportunity, rather than a threat.

“By engaging with the Chesterfield Digital High Street project, small businesses can benefit from expert support to equip themselves with the right mix of tools needed for the online world – something that will complement their existing services, attract new customers and, ultimately, future-proof their organisations.”

Purpose Media has been supporting the project and have advised over 30 businesses in Chesterfield as part of the Chesterfield Digital High Street Project.

Purpose Media business development manager Grace Golden said: “Through our work in the Chesterfield Digital High Street project, we have helped businesses learn new ways to engage with customers, attract business and increase profitability.

“By implementing new activity online such as posting videos or using Facebook advertising, they have renewed optimism for their future and have confidence in their ability to marketing their business.”

Discover how your business can benefit from this project by visiting: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/chesterfield-digital-high-street

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