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Local business support boosted with launch of Early Stage Angel Investment Fund

‘Early stage’ businesses based in Chesterfield can now pitch to access new funding to support growth.

The Early Stage Angel Investment Fund (ESAIF) was developed by the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (D2N2 LEP) ahead of it becoming part of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) earlier this year.

The Fund, which has been launched at events in Derby and Nottingham.  aims to stimulate investment and growth in ‘early stage’ companies – those that have been trading between six and 24 months.

D2N2 LEP/EMCCA are contributing £4 million to the fund, match-funded by ESAIF fund manager, Haatch. Over the longer term these funds will be re-invested in the programme, to catalyse investment and growth for more early-stage companies.

The Derby launch event, held at Derby Arena, featured a video keynote address by Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands , and presentations by D2N2 LEP Deputy Chair and EMCCA’s business representative David Williams MBE DL, Lewis Stringer of British Business Bank, Samantha Deakin of the University of Derby and Fred Soneya of ESAIF fund manager Haatch.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “Supporting our local economy is one of my priorities as Mayor of the East Midlands and I’m delighted we’ve been able to launch the Early Stage Angel Investment Fund.

“I look forward to hearing all about the impact of this fund, how it supports our local businesses, and how it will help our regional economy thrive. I’m keen to see what we can achieve together through this significant investment and strong collaborative partnership.”

The Early Stage Angel Investment Fund was announced by D2N2 LEP Chair Elizabeth Fagan at the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds earlier this year.

To find out more information about the Fund and to make an application visit: https://haatch.com/investors/haatch-d2n2-esaif/

If you’re looking for more support for your business, find out more about the schemes which may be applicable to you at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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Vicar Lane announces free parking on selected 2024 dates

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in the heart of Chesterfield has announced free parking for shoppers on six dates in 2024.

On the last Sunday of every month for the rest of the year, shoppers can enjoy their visit without needing to stop at the payment kiosk upon exiting the carpark. Customers can simply park, shop and leave completely hassle-free.

Free parking can be enjoyed on the following dates, starting this weekend:

  • Sunday 28th July
  • Sunday 25th August
  • Sunday 29th September
  • Sunday 27th October
  • Sunday 24th November
  • Sunday 29th December

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager, Vicar Lane said, “We are delighted to be launching this new initiative with YourParkingSpace. It gives us a chance here at Vicar Lane to reward our customers and show them just how valued they are!’’

The shopping centre is also hosting several activities this summer as part of its Summer of Sport screenings. The Olympics will be broadcast on the big screen in St. James’ Square on 26 July – 11 August, followed by the Paralympics from 28 August – 8 September.

The pop-up giant games will also be out on the green in St James’ Square for families to enjoy. Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine.

Over the Summer holidays, the kids can get involved in free Olympic themed activities. The young Olympians will receive a passport on their first visit and be challenged to collect stamps each time they come to Vicar Lane. A prize will be awarded on their third visit and they will be entered into a prize draw if all stamps are collected.

For more information on stores to visit and to keep up to date on what’s going on at Vicar Lane visit https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/

Planning a visit to Chesterfield? Make the most of your stay by getting a few hints and tips on our visiting page. 

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

Vicar Lane eurovision

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Council continues to make progress on climate targets

Chesterfield Borough Council is continuing to make progress to its target of becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030 and carbon neutral borough by 2050 as its Climate Change Annual Report is published.

The annual report sets out the work the council has undertaken over 2023/24 to make progress towards its targets. In the last year the council has planted more than 5000 trees, invested almost £4 million of energy efficiency improvements in its properties, funded community projects, developed a plan to reduce emissions in operational buildings, established a new community-based Climate Forum and much more.

Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, said: “In just the last year we have seen record breaking temperatures and severe flooding, both of which have deeply affected our communities and demonstrates why we must take action to reduce our emissions, and why we must do it now.

“Becoming carbon neutral is an ambitious task and the ongoing financial challenges the council faces make this even more difficult, but we are continuing to make the changes we need to and by setting out detailed objectives on an annual basis we are delivering real progress. In February we approved our next Climate Change Delivery Plan which is even more ambitious and will a further reduction in our emissions.

“I am proud of what we have achieved over the last year but there is still lots to do to reach our target of becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030.”
The annual delivery plans are built around the six themes set out in the council’s climate change strategy, including buildings and energy use, travel, green space and land use, communications and engagement, data and monitoring, and council influence.

Within each theme there are specific actions, in 2024/25 these include, strengthening measures which require contractors and suppliers to demonstrate their green credentials when being considered for work, starting work on the major decarbonisation of our operational buildings, continuing to provide support to the Chesterfield Climate Forum and taking steps to move to a low carbon vehicle fleet.
The council has just taken delivery of new electric cars that will be used to deliver the Chesterfield Careline service.

Councillor Martin Stone said: “Decarbonising our fleet is a difficult task, but it is important because transport is one of the largest sources of emissions. I’m looking forward to seeing how these new vehicles perform in our fleet, expanding the number of electric vehicles and looking at alternative fuels for some of our maintenance equipment.”

The council will be introducing more electric vehicles into the fleet over the summer and these will be used to deliver building cleaning, environmental protection, and housing services.
In the autumn the council will be trialling the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil to power vehicles like a road sweeper where electric alternatives are currently unavailable.

To read the full annual report and find out more about what the council is doing to meet its commitment to tackling climate change visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/climate-change

Looking for support to make your business more sustainable? Go to our business support page to find out about the latest initiatives available to you.

 

anzacs chesterfield

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Seven Chesterfield parks and green spaces receive Green Flags

Chesterfield has once again been recognised for its excellent parks and green spaces with a magnificent seven green flag awards.

Monkey Park (Chester Street Recreation Ground), Brampton has been awarded the flag for the first-time following improvements carried out over the last few years.

A further six spaces including Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, King George V Park (Staveley), Eastwood Park (Hasland) and the gardens of Chesterfield and District Crematorium have all retained Green Flag status. The award is an internationally recognised mark of quality for parks and green spaces.

In addition, Chesterfield Canal Trust’s Hollingwood Hub was recently awarded an impressive eighth Green Flag.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It’s magnificent that we have held our Green Flag Awards once again in these parks as well as gaining another for the work undertaken at the Monkey Park. Our teams do a fantastic job to maintain these spaces for all to enjoy.

“To achieve these awards during the second year of our Parks and Play Strategy demonstrates our commitment to the health and well-being of our residents. It is one of our key aims is to continue this valuable work for the good of our communities.”

Over the last couple of years, Monkey Park has received a new footpath network, rustic furniture and a table tennis table, and with help from Brampton Primary School and local children’s charity, Fairplay, a new orchard has been planted as well as daffodil bulbs. This year also sees the colourful addition of a wildflower explosion planted at the main entrance to the park to welcome visitors in.

The Parks, Open Spaces and Play Delivery Plan (2023 to 2028), which was approved by Cabinet in February 2023, sets out Chesterfield Borough Council’s commitment to making sure local communities continue to have access to modern and well-maintained spaces for leisure and play, and to support people’s health and wellbeing.

It will lead to more than one million pounds being invested in parks and green spaces over the course of the five-year programme. Communities will benefit from 18 enhanced youth and play spaces, and also aims to double the number of its sites that are acknowledged by the Green Flag Award.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for their management across the United Kingdom and around the world.

With plenty of access to green space and a good mix of picturesque urban and rural landscapes, Chesterfield can offer a fantastic quality of life for you and your family. Find out more about living in Chesterfield.

Man, woman and girl watching a boy go down a slide

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

Office occupancy success continues across Chesterfield

Chesterfield is fast emerging as a prime destination for office space. With its strategic location and proactive community, combined with modern commercial developments, our town is becoming a beacon for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the region.

The success story of office developments in Chesterfield is a reflection of the town’s adaptability and forward-thinking approach, as businesses adapt to hybrid working models.

In recent years, Chesterfield has seen a remarkable transformation. Its skyline has evolved with state-of-the-art office spaces that blend modern amenities with the town’s historic charm.

One Waterside Place, The Glass Yard and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre have all opened in the last couple of years, whilst quality refurbishments such as The HQ and The Quad have added to the availability of highly-demanded grade A space.

Interest in Chesterfield is fueled by a combination of factors: excellent transport links, competitive prices, and a council committed to supporting business innovation and development.

Chesterfield’s strategic position, offering easy access to major cities like Sheffield and Nottingham, makes it an ideal location for businesses seeking connectivity without the hefty price tags of larger urban centers. Moreover, the town’s investment in infrastructure and sustainable development is attracting a diverse range of companies.

PIB, Nuzest and Varley are just some of the companies opening new offices in Chesterfield recently, whilst businesses such as BHP, Rosewood Wealth Management, We Are Spaces and Vines Legal have thrived in the town, culminating in moves to larger offices.

We’ve spoken to the people involved in these transformational office projects, which are setting Chesterfield apart as a leading hub for enterprise and innovation.

With new stock continuing to come to the market, including the recently completed York House, there are plenty of opportunities to invest in Chesterfield.

Join hundreds of businesses benefitting from Chesterfield’s ideal location, affordability and work-life balance. Find out more about office spaces available in our town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

Chesterfield Innovation Centres

2 female business people at white desks talking at Chesterfield Enterprise Centre, Crooked Spire visible through window

Northern Gateway Chesterfield Enterprise Centre

Chesterfield’s three innovations centres continue to report impressive occupancy rates. The recently-developed Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in the heart of the town has an occupancy of 85% currently. Occupancy at Dunston Innovation Centre sits at a whopping 95%, and Tapton is currently 83% full.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “Our Enterprise and Innovation Centres provide businesses with the space and support they need to grow and thrive in our borough and there has been lots of demand for space in all three of our centres over the last year.

“Our investment in these centres has been a key element of our plan to grow the local economy and create new employment opportunities and we’ve seen the success of this investment through businesses growing and expanding their presence in our borough.  New businesses receive a warm welcome into our centres, and our dedicated team are always happy to help businesses find the right space for them. If you’re looking for new office space in Chesterfield, please get in touch with our team who will be pleased to help you in your search.”

One Waterside Place

Group of business people at table listening to young male presenting in front of a screen with PowerPoint at BHP, 1 Waterside Place, Chesterfield

BHP, 1 Waterside Place, Chesterfield

All floors of the flagship One Waterside Place building, situated just a few yards from Chesterfield Railway Station have now been taken.

The seven-storey development is home to BHP Chartered Accountants, Rosewood Wealth Management and Wesco Anixter. Meanwhile one of the first businesses to move into the building, Varley, has taken a second floor of space to take the occupancy to 100%.

Peter Swallow, Managing Director of Bolsterstone Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We’re delighted that Varley has expanded their office space within One Waterside Place. Together with BHP, Rosewood Wealth Management and Wesco Anixter, the building is now fully occupied.

“One Waterside Place has been a huge success for both Bolsterstone and Chesterfield Borough Council; it has been instrumental in setting new headline rents for office space in the town.  Whether it’s a private or public partnership, our aim is to create places people want to live, work and invest throughout the UK. It’s certainly been the case with Chesterfield Waterside. The success of One Waterside Place and Waterside Quarter is helping us attract substantial interest in the next delivery phase of the regeneration scheme.”

“We are now progressing well with our plans to bring forward the next stages of Basin Square. There has been significant interest shown and we envisage being able to take some elements to the next stage later this year.”

The Quad and The HQ

The HQ 873

Two recently-refurbished buildings, situated near Queen’s Park and Chesterfield town Centre, have both seen huge demand.

The Quad and The HQ underwent major improvements, carried out by FI Real Estate Management.

With 56,000 sq ft of floor space, The Quad is now at full occupancy with DHU Healthcare moving into the building. Investment at the HQ has created over 100,000 sq ft of modern open-plan office space, with the majority now snapped up.

Dom Knowles, Head of Offices FI Real Estate Management, commented: “The way businesses use office space is fundamentally different to just a few years ago. As developers, it’s our responsibility to provide workspaces that respond not only to the needs of the current market but to set the trends for future ways of working.

“Our space at The HQ and The Quad is flexible and customisable, allowing our tenants to maximise their workspace without compromising on convenience. Elevating spaces with the highest standard of amenities creates spaces where people love to come to work and will ultimately thrive, which benefits the business. We’ve had a large volume of interest in this development throughout the refurbishment and I expect we will be fully let in the coming months.”

An Agents View

Destination Chesterfield team working in the office

The first half of 2024 has pleasingly been a busy period for FHP Property Consultants.  The company was involved in the letting of space at One Waterside Place, as well as several other sites across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

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

Join hundreds of businesses benefitting from Chesterfield’s ideal location, affordability and work-life balance. Find out more about office spaces available in our town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

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

New businesses set up shop in Chesterfield Market Hall

Chesterfield’s historic Market Hall has welcomed several new traders as the building in the heart of our town continues to evolve.

The Catch have taken a unit inside selling fresh fish, Blueberry Café is operating the Market Hall Café and Galaxy Travel have taken a unit on the outside of the Market Hall.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “It is always a pleasure to be able to welcome businesses into the Market Hall. There is a fantastic variety selling everything including luxury goods, fresh produce, carpets, wool, and so much more. I’d encourage everyone to go and support these great independent businesses in our town.

“The Market Hall is a fantastic place to do business, it sits right in the heart of our town centre, includes a strong community of businesses that work together, with the offer of affordable rents for small businesses to start and to grow.

“With the works planned through our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project a strong future lies ahead for the Market Hall, with an expanded events space and a revitalised outdoor market the Hall will become an even more important focal point in our town.

“I hope all these businesses will settle into their new premises and have a successful future in the town centre.”

The Catch opened in May and offer a wide range of fresh fish prepared by expert fishmongers.

Aashirvad and Manu, the owners of The Catch, said: “We’re excited to share our passion for fish and its health benefits with the community! We will save you the prep work by cutting and cleaning your fish exactly as you like. We offer pre-orders to ensure we can provide exactly what you desire, along with a wide variety of cuts to suit your preference.

“From whole fish for the adventurous cook to convenient pre-portioned options, The Catch is your one-stop shop for fresh, delicious seafood.”

Blueberry Café has been appointed to run the Market Hall Café and they took over the operation of the café in March.

James Shawe, owner of Blueberry Café, said: “We are delighted to be running the café in the Market Hall. Established in 2008, we have carefully grown the business and are always looking for exciting new opportunities.

“Working with Chesterfield Borough Council has given us the opportunity to invest in the café, protect jobs and develop the business to ensure we continue to offer a superb range of products and services for all visitors to Chesterfield.”

Galaxy Travel has recently taken on one of the units on the outside of the Market Hall. A local taxi and travel firm the company provides a service for any occasion including local trips, nights out, minibus hire, or an airport transfer.

David Lewis, owner of Galaxy Travel, said: “We chose to base our local taxi business in Chesterfield town centre, specifically in the vibrant Market Hall, as we believe in supporting and being a part of the thriving community of traders. Our dedication to providing fast, reliable, and helpful taxi service is enriched by the bustling energy and charm of this historic town. We are proud to be a part of Chesterfield’s dynamic business landscape.”

Markan Foods Limited who will be specialising in Nigerian food will also be setting up in the Market Hall very soon.

With the ongoing multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield, that will transform the look, feel and flow of the town’s key public spaces, now is a fantastic time to set up your business in the Market Hall.

The Market Hall benefits from a central location, offers affordable rents for small businesses and flexible terms for leasing premises.

If you’re interested in setting up a business in Chesterfield Market Hall, contact Hannah Ramsdale or Claire Cunningham on 01246 345255 or email economic.development@chesterfield.gov.uk. Looking for further information about why Chesterfield is a great place to invest? Go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Chesterfield is home to many independent retailers, cafes and restaurants, who are all ready and waiting to provide you with a great experience. Find out more about visiting our town here.

 

 

 

Birdseye view of Chesterfield market place with stalls and people

 

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New business centre now open in Chesterfield following major refurbishment

A new business centre comprising several office spaces is now open in the centre of Chesterfield.

York House Business Centre, based on St. Mary’s Gate is situated in the heart of the town, providing an accessible and convenient location for companies looking for quality office space.

Space available ranges from 72 sq ft to 1,211 sq ft, which includes lift access and a communal meeting room. Both floors also contain male, female and disabled WCs, while the ground floor boasts a cafe and communal kitchen, with an outdoor courtyard also available to use.

The property has 24-hour access and benefits from internal and external CCTV. In total, the building has undergone refurbishment thought to be around £800,000.

Emma Gallagher, Director at commercial property agent, Roy Peters Estates, said: “We are delighted to continue our involvement with York House and be part of the next chapter in the life of such a beautiful and historic building.

Office space with white and blue lighting ready for occupation

“A mixed use development such as this promises to bring numerous benefits to the town with the diversity of those occupying the variety of space available. With the affordable rent and flexible terms, it will also encourage those just starting out in business to take that first step.

“We have had strong demand in the Business Centre already with 7 spaces let in the first week and prior to the official opening of the building.”

Andy Dabbs, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Chair of the town’s Property and Construction Group, commented:

“Having the spaces for businesses to grow in Chesterfield is crucial, and the investment at York House will provide the premises businesses need to thrive in the heart of our town.

“Chesterfield is superbly located for businesses, with connections to several major cities within just an hour’s commute via road or rail.

“Furthermore, your organisation will be welcomed by our vibrant and supportive business community, making the town an ideal place to invest.”

Want to find out more about commercial property in Chesterfield? Get in touch with us today at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

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

York House business Centre

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

Acquisitions, appointments and competition wins for Chesterfield Champions

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions continue to grow.

Our latest roundup includes several successes from across our business community, with announcements of new hires, acquisitions, competition wins and sponsorships across the town.

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It is very pleasing to see Champions achieving further success across our town, as our organisations continue working together to support the local economy and raise the profile of Chesterfield. We would like to wish all businesses in Chesterfield further growth and success in the future.”

Find out the latest news from across the Chesterfield Champions network below.

Shorts announce acquisition of Hewson & Howson

shorts acquisition

Accountancy and Tax specialists Shorts have announced the acquisition of South Yorkshire Accountancy firm Hewson & Howson, in a deal which sees all of the Hewson & Howson employees join the Shorts team.

Formed by Ian Hewson and Andrew Howson in 1995, Hewson & Howson built a respected reputation throughout their 30 year history, specialising in providing a partner led service to owner managed businesses. Driven by the decision for both Ian Hewson and Andrew Howson to retire, transferring the business to an accounting firm with a similar culture and service ethic was a key priority for both outgoing partners.

Andy Irvine, Managing Partner at Shorts, said “Hewson & Howson have a long-standing reputation for providing their clients with high quality tax and accountancy service and we are delighted to now welcome their team and clients to Shorts. Their approach of providing a fully supportive and personal service, and building long standing relationships with their clients is very much in line with the culture here at Shorts and we are looking forward to working with their clients and team over the years to come. Our very best wishes go with Ian and Andrew for a long and happy retirement.”

Ian Hewson added “When Andrew and I considered retirement and selling the practice, finding the right firm, with the perfect synergy for our clients and team was very important in that decision. Having built a business with a solid reputation, it was important to us that our clients would continue to be looked after with the same attention and support, following the transfer. We firmly believe that the culture at Shorts aligns with our own and we are confident that we leave our clients in the very safest of hands at Shorts going forward.”

New chair appointed at Ashgate Hospice to lead charity

Man with green blazer smiling

Ashgate Hospice has announced the appointment of Chris Hallam as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Chris, a distinguished Behavioural Psychologist with extensive leadership experience in the banking sector and consultancy, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the North Derbyshire hospice.

The 58-year-old, who was formally appointed to the role at a trustee meeting in May, expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to building on the hospice’s remarkable achievements and advancing its mission.

Chris said: “What a huge privilege it is to be given this chance to lead such an important organisation like Ashgate Hospice.

“I am in awe of everything our staff, volunteers, patrons, supporters and patients do to make the hospice the place it is today.

“My personal values of kindness, fairness, and togetherness align closely with Ashgate’s values of compassion, teamwork, and being respectful, open, and inclusive.

“I have deep roots in this area, having been nurtured by the communities of North Derbyshire. My role at Ashgate is a wonderful chance to give back to the community that has been a significant part of my life.”

Chris was inspired to work with Ashgate Hospice after a personal experience when his school friend received care at a hospice.

The care and support his friend received “made a profound difference to him and his family”, and Chris wanted to do his bit to help other families in similar circumstances.

Expressing excitement about the future of Ashgate Hospice, Chris added: “The superb leadership team is developing ambitious plans to ensure we continue to grow and spread the Ashgate magic far and wide.

“Our priorities will focus on expanding our reach, improving our services, and innovating in how we deliver care to a broader community.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of funding for end-of-life care. We must raise our voice nationally to address this issue.

“Despite these challenges, I am confident in our ability to continue providing exceptional care.”

Competition success for Learning Curve Group students

Learning Curve Group students and tutors

Students at Chesterfield’s Learning Curve Group have been praised for claiming top prizes in a series of national competitions.

In Blackpool at the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists competition, Learning Curve took home the following accolades.

  • First place 1960s Makeup by our Level 2 student Emily Wharton
  • First place for creative nail art by our Level 2 student Cassie Swindell
  • Fourth place Bridal Makeup by Level 2 student Emily Wharton

Students competed against substantial community/ public colleges of which entered several students in each competition. However with practice, skill, high levels of creativity and perseverance Learning Curve managed to take home three wins.

At the World Skills Beauty Therapy competition, Learning Curve initially entered 10 media makeup students, a mixture of level 2 and level 3 in the photographic entry stage back in May. The college managed to gain a place for all students to compete in the regional stage, which was an outstanding achievement, especially when only just over 1000 students gained places in this stage across the UK.

Learning Curve Group also entered 3 Beauty Therapy students, another mixture of level 2 and level 3 students into the Beauty therapist and Practitioner competitions.

Upon this success, in June, Learning Curve took students to York City College to participate in the next stage of the competition. Learners demonstrated exceptional professionalism, courage and determination. Now, students and tutors are awaiting results from this competition . If the team are to be successful, the next stage will be the national Competition which is held in Manchester in November.

Lastly, another Learning Curve student, Naomi Morris, started her journey with the college aged just 16 years old as a Study Programme Learner. Naomi completed 3 years at the Chesterfield Academy where she studied Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy and Level 4 Diploma in Permanent Hair Removal & Skin Rejuvenation.  She has since been successful in being offered a place with Steiner Cruise Ships and is due to start her new job role this year.

Spireites land new stand sponsorship deal

Group of people in uniform with footballer stood between them, with truck and football stand in background

A new sponsorship deal has been agreed which will see the West Stand at the SMH Group Stadium re-named The LMD Vacuum Excavation (West) Stand.

Commenting on the news, Mick Dysart, LMD Vacuum Excavation’s managing director, said: “We are really proud to be able to sponsor the West Stand.

“We’re lifelong supporters and it is a real privilege to be able to do something for the community and sponsor the club.

“Being in the Football League is where we should be as a club, and I think we have got a squad that can compete at the top of end of the table.”

Bridget Ball, Chesterfield’s marketing manager, said: “I would like to thank LMD Vacuum Excavation for their valued support.

“We look forward to working with Mick, Sandra and the team and establishing a mutually beneficial relationship.”

Based at Duckmanton, LMD Vacuum Excavation operate nationwide, working with blue chip construction firms and utility companies.

The company is one of the largest operators of vacuum excavation in the UK.

The organisations featured in this article 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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Accessibility improvements made at Peak Edge Hotel and Red Lion Restaurant

The Peak Edge Hotel and Red Lion Restaurant has undergone recent improvements to improve accessibility at the venue.

With the building originally developed in the 18th century but still thriving in the 21st century, the hotel ownership and staff have developed the venue to meet modern accessibility standards.

The works will enable more people to enjoy the food, drink and hospitality offer at Peak Edge.

Improvements to the property over recent years include dedicated parking, accessible rooms, wide corridors, lifts and access ramps to the rear of the property. However the hotel found integrating the restaurant with the rest of the building a challenge.

In response to this, the hotel’s owner, Steve Perez, reached out to Access Lifts in late 2023, with the main obstacle being the tight constraints of the stone built corridors leading up to the restaurant, with no space for a conventional platform lift.

Therefore, the only viable solution was a Hidden Platform Lift. This new Hidden Platform Lift allows the corridor and steps leading up to the entrance to be used as normal when the lift is in its resting position, but the lift features an on-platform handrail with controls to allow the restaurant and hotel guests to move between the two levels.

The lift has been supplied with remote control key fobs for use by members of staff too, if any guests require assistance. The lift has been neatly finished with wooden floorboards to match the surrounding floor and steps, and is already in use.

Steve was committed to this investment to improve accessibility for guests. He commented: “We knew we needed a better solution to provide easier access, particularly between the hotel and the bar and restaurant and it took some time to find the right solution and it is part of an ongoing journey.”

Steve added: “A coaching inn in 1788 was never designed for modern usage or to modern standards and we continue to invest to improve accessibility whilst maintaining the character and history of the place. Visitors will have seen the original stone with 1788 engraved in it in the bar and they love the original features.

“We need to keep modernising and providing the best quality and standards for all our guests,” added Steve, “but the history is definitely part of our charm. When you are next in, take a look at our photo wall with all the old images on it. There’s a great shot of what the Walton Suite used to look like and we’ve recently discovered some bills from the 1970’s which really show how times have changed.”

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.

Peak Edge Hotel

 

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Destination Chesterfield Chair wins prestigious property award

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow has won a prestigious regional award for his services to the property and construction sector.

Peter took home the Property Personality of the Year Award at the Insider South Yorkshire Property Dinner 2024.

The event at Sheffield City Hall celebrated the best completed projects, deals and industry individuals in the region, with the Property Personality category being voted for by colleagues across the property sector.

As co-founder of Bolsterstone Group, Peter has worked on and delivered a variety of projects in our area. One of Peter’s main regeneration projects in our town has been the Chesterfield Waterside Scheme, which has seen success with new housing and a modern seven-storey office, One Waterside Place, built and already fully occupied.

Further development at Waterside seeks to deliver a hotel, multi-storey car park and residential accommodation, centred around the new canal basin and a pedestrianised public realm.

peter swallow

Speaking on his award win, Peter Swallow commented: “I was surprised and thrilled to receive the Property Personality award. It was made even more special by the fact that it was voted for by colleagues across the regional property sector.

“I would like to thank all those people for their support and would also like to express my gratitude for the collaboration across the sector, which has enabled regeneration across several key sites in our region.

“Many congratulations to all the winners and nominees at the event, Our role as a sector in making towns and cities better places to live, work, and play should never be underestimated.”

Further investment opportunities are available at Chesterfield Waterside and across our town. Find out more about why Chesterfield is ideally located to support the growth of your business at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

Peter Swallow collects property award on stage

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New eye hospital to reduce waiting times in Chesterfield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SpaMedica Chesterfield team

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