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Bridge Help’s Chesterfield Foodbank appeal raises £6,000

A six-week fundraising appeal, which has resulted in a whopping donation of £6,000 of food, toiletries and cash, will help hundreds of people in need across Chesterfield in 2023.

Launched in November 2022, Bridge Help’s annual Chesterfield Foodbank raised £3,000 thanks to donations from the firm’s brokers, suppliers, friends and family. The short-term commercial finance provider matched all donations, bringing the final total to £6,000.

A £4,400 haul of food and toiletries – which filled three vans – was delivered to the food bank just before Christmas. A £1,600 cash donation was also given to the charity to enable it to help people throughout the year when donations fall.

The food donated weighed in at more than 1.2 tonnes, enabling up to 1,300 meals to be made.

Roisin O’Gorman from Chesterfield Foodbank thanked Bridge Help for the donation, saying: “This donation will make such a positive difference at this incredibly difficult time. Demand for the Foodbank has increased by 35% since last year and 50% from the year before. The food donated will help keep us stocked up throughout the year when our donations start to dry up. You have really helped local people in crisis who are facing poverty!”

As well as a £500 donation of food to the collection, Stoneacre Motor Group and Maxus supplied two vans and members of their team to help Bridge Help and staff from Chesterfield Foodbank load and transport everything to the foodbank’s distribution centre on Carrwood Road in Sheepbridge.

As well as essentials – tins, pasta, long life fruit juice and milk, Bridge Help also donated toiletries, chocolate and biscuit treats for Christmas. Donations were collected and stored at the firm’s offices on Old Brick Works Lane.

Arranged by the firm’s Business Development Manager Phoebe Sellars, who is also a trustee of Chesterfield Citizens Advice, she said: “Each year the Bridge Help Foodbank appeal raises more than the last, which truly amazed me this year as everyone is feeling the effect with the cost-of-living crisis. Once again, people have been so generous and enabled us to give our biggest donation ever.

“Being a trustee of Chesterfield Citizens Advice I know how much this donation is needed this year. More and more people are having to make the impossible decision between choosing whether to eat or heat. I am pleased that we have been able to make a small difference locally.”

This was the third consecutive year Bridge Help has organised a collection and donation to Chesterfield Foodbank.

Since launching the Chesterfield Foodbank appeal in 2019, Bridge Help has donated more than £11,000 to the Sheepbridge-based foodbank warehouse, which is operated by The Trussell Trust.

The Chesterfield Foodbank distribution centre supplies six food banks – central Chesterfield, New Whittington, Loundsley Green, Brimington, Hope Valley and Hasland, which is the most recent foodbank. The Hasland foodbank was opened in April 2022 to cope with the increase in working people struggling to eat amid the cost-of-living hike.

Chesterfield Foodbank provides three days of nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to people who are referred to them and has been operating since 2013. The foodbank works through local agencies issuing vouchers to people in crisis who cannot afford to buy food.

Bridge Help supports 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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City Taxis welcomes Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity as its Chesterfield charity of the year

Having pledged to support a small charity in each of their operating areas, local taxi company City Taxis has announced its latest charity partner for 2023 – the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity.

Chesterfield Royal Charity supports both the patients and staff at the hospital, by improving the environment and facilities on offer, all designed to enhance care and wellbeing. Through donations, the charity goes above and beyond to provide more than what is offered through ‘normal NHS funding’, from relaxation gardens and MRI scanners to water stations and mental health support for staff.

The Charity is currently working on its ‘Care for the Carers Appeal’ which is funding a £2m Health and Wellbeing Hub, which is being built on the hospital site. The Hub will offer all staff a safe place to actively look after their mental and physical health and wellbeing. Amongst the hub’s facilities will be a gym, counselling rooms and complimentary therapies.

Sacha Skinner, Marketing Manager at City Taxis, said: “Since finalising our City Charity strategy, we have worked with our Site Managers to select several local charities that we believe could really benefit from our support.

“In summer (2022) we teamed up with Sheffield Hospitals Charity to throw a ‘Thank You NHS Gala Ball’, where all funds were donated to the charity’s ‘We’ve Got You’ Campaign – dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of NHS staff across Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.

“When we learned that Chesterfield Royal Charity were also working on a large project to support the health and wellbeing of their staff, we knew this was something we wanted to get involved with.

“We are very proud to be supporting such a wonderful charity and very much looking forward to getting involved in lots of fundraising activities and volunteering to support this project.”

Ken Godber, Director at Chesterfield Royal Charity, said: “We are extremely proud to welcome City Taxis on board to support for our ‘Care for the Carers’ appeal.

“We know the Health and Wellbeing Hub will make a huge difference to the 4,500 colleagues working at the hospital.

“It’s been a very difficult time for the NHS and with support from City Taxis for the whole of 2023 we think we’ll be able to make even more investments in the Hub.

“Thank you to them and all their drivers for this commitment.”

In 2022, six members of the City Taxis team took on the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k to help raise funds for the Health and Wellbeing Hub build, which is set to open in spring 2023. Visit the link for more information: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/CarefortheCarersCRH

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

 

City Taxis at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

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Vicar Lane announces upgrade to car parking facilities

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre will be undergoing an upgrade to the car park and general parking facilities in the coming weeks.

YourParkingSpace has been chosen as a partner to bring the parking facilities into the digital-era and streamline shoppers’ parking experience from 11th January.

Shoppers will see improvements to the car park access as entry/exit will be controlled by a new Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. In addition, there will be a number of ways to pay either on site at a Payment Kiosk where cash and card is accepted, or digitally with ‘Pay by Mobile’ or ‘Express Checkout’ using the relevant QR codes that can be found on site.

Frequent visitors to Vicar Lane will also have the option to Pre-Book a space or set up AutoPay.

YourParkingSpace offers 24/7 customer service support and a free app to download for Android and IOS users.

Vicar Lane’s multistorey car park provides 400 spaces including 18 disabled spaces and 12 parent and child parking spaces.

Shaun Brown from Vicar Lane said: “We are delighted to be working with YourParkingSpace to upgrade and modernise our car park for visitors of Vicar Lane. We know this investment will enhance our shoppers experience giving choice and flexibility to everyone’s busy day to day activities.’’

Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is  home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. Shoppers of all ages will find they can shop for products from clothing, mobile phones and cosmetics to greetings cards and household items with lots of friendly, attentive staff ready to help.

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/  

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 Fun Day

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Global Brands Limited announces the purchase of the Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef brands

Global Brands Limited has announced its purchase of the Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef trademarks from Molson Coors Beverage Company.

The brands have been produced and distributed by Global Brands since 2012 and will now form parts of its owned portfolio.

This sale to Global Brands will mean Global Brands own the brands and can now focus on them as part of their own portfolio with all the freedoms that brings.

Nino Beneta, Managing Director of Molson Coors Export and License EMEA & APAC said: “We are excited to see Global Brands progress in growing these brands over the last decade and look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of the Reef, Hoopers and Hooch brands going forward.

“Moving forward as an EMEA & APAC Export and License team our focus will continue to be on a select portfolio of key international brands such as Coors, Staropramen, Carling, Madri Excepcional and Blue Moon.”

Steve Perez, Chairman and Founder of Global Brands said: “We are delighted to welcome the Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef brands as fully-fledged members of the Global Brands family. This will give us the opportunity to invest further into the brands with the added security of owning the equity.

“We re-launched Hooch in 2012 at the Publican Awards with Keith Lemon and reinvigorated the brand, with new flavours and focus. Hooch is a staple of the RTD category sold by major retailers, and is a popular, well-loved brand. This deal will reinforce Global Brands’ position as the leading independent producer of RTD brands in the UK.

“We have lots of ideas for innovation and look forward to sharing these with the trade and consumers shortly. We have enjoyed a fantastic supportive relationship with Molson Coors over the years and look forward to continue working closely together through their route-to-market team. It’s an exciting start for GBL in 2023!”

Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef join the expanding and popular Global Brands portfolio – which includes VK, the biggest RTD brand in the On Trade, Franklin & Sons, the 2nd biggest premium tonic brand in the On Trade, and All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake, Beviamo, Kick Energy, Lustre, and Amigos Tequila Beer. Global Brands are the biggest branded supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK Off Trade (by volume).

Hooch has enjoyed huge growth with Global Brands since 2012. Recent NPD for Hooch under Global Brands includes the launch of Pink Hooch in 2020 – the most successful ready-to-drink NPD launch of the year4 – and the launch of Orange Hooch in the summer of 2022. Alongside the original, no nonsense alcoholic lemon brew Hooch, is the passion fruit and mango sidekick Hoola Hooch, and a range of Hooch spirits.

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.

Hooch Global Brands

 

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Support for more Derbyshire businesses and organisations to reduce energy use and cut carbon

More Derbyshire businesses and organisations will be eligible for help to reduce their energy costs and cut carbon emissions as part of the Green Entrepreneurs Fund programme

More than £715,000 has already been awarded to businesses and organisations through the grants programme which Derbyshire County Council is running in collaboration with the University of Derby, as part of the drive to help the county reach net zero by 2050 or sooner.

But now changes made to the eligibility criteria for the programme’s Small Grants Fund mean even more businesses and organisations will be able to access funding to help implement green energy plans to reduce their energy costs.

Small grants from £6,000 up to a maximum of £20,000 can be applied for towards projects such as, but not limited to:

  • installing solar panels
  • replacing old heating systems with air/ground source heat pumps
  • retrofitting old boilers to make them more energy efficient
  • fitting electric vehicle charging points at their premises
  • installing energy efficient LED lighting
  • improving the insulation in their premises to help prevent heat escaping
  • funding to replace equipment and machinery with energy-saving alternatives
  • battery storage for solar generated energy.

Applicants will be required to show how their proposals would cut carbon emissions and how they are planning to reduce their emissions to net zero – which means reducing carbon emissions right down to the lowest possible level and off-setting those that cannot be cut through measures such as planting more trees and other forms of habitat creation to absorb excess carbon from the atmosphere, making the overall net emissions zero.

They will also be asked to highlight how the grant funding will support them to improve their management of resources and staff to increase sustainability and show how the project would or could include wider community benefits such as protecting jobs or encouraging greener behaviour among staff.

Councillor Tony King, Cabinet member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, said: “We know that small businesses are feeling the pinch with rising energy bills and costs of materials and goods generally.

“This change to the Small Grants Fund criteria means that we can help more small businesses to invest in energy efficiency measures to help cut their costs as well as their carbon footprint.”

As well as the Small Grants Fund, the programme is also accepting applications to the Green Entrepreneurs Scholarship Fund to support individuals to retrain with skills to enable them to enter the field of low carbon, green energy.

And the Green Entrepreneurs Demonstrator Fund is also open for applications from high quality, larger scale carbon-cutting projects in Derbyshire. This fund is open to projects that are designed to encourage solutions beyond the mainstream of current thinking and the minimum grant available through this fund is £200,000.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “The University has an ambition to make Derbyshire synonymous with sustainable business. This extra funding capacity to support businesses on the journey to zero carbon is invaluable, particularly at a time when energy costs are rising. We look forward to seeing the innovative projects that can be supported as a result.”

Find more information on the Green Entrepreneurs Fund programme here.

Wind Turbine in Chesterfield

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Charities, community groups, and students strengthen links at University of Derby event

A vibrant Voluntary Sector Marketplace has introduced university students and lecturers to groups across the county, to further champion working together in classrooms and communities.

More than 300 students and lecturers from the University of Derby met with charities and community organisations from across the county at a packed event on November 24th 2022, as part of the partnership between the University and local charity Community Chesterfield.

Over 40 representatives from the charity and voluntary sector in Derbyshire helped to make this event a huge success, presenting a series of lectures to nursing students at the university talking about the impact of groups in our community and on health and social care, and encouraging staff and students to become champions for the invaluable work being done.

Introducing hundreds of students and lecturers to connect with groups such as Ashgate hospice, the Volunteer Centre, Derbyshire Carers Association, Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust, and many more, the event encouraged the participants to make plans together to strengthen their links and plan future collaborations in the classroom, and in communities across the region.

The university this week was awarded the Bronze Engage Watermark for its community engagement and partnerships, working with education is critical to ensuring the continued success and reach of charities and community groups across Derbyshire.

Daniel Jones, Marketing and Communications officer at Community Chesterfield said: “Our partnership with the University of Derby is integral to our success in delivering such outstanding support to both students and community groups across the county, helping to shape the future of charities and volunteer groups and increase the understanding of how vital support within our communities is”.

Community Chesterfield is a collaboration between Derbyshire Voluntary Action and the University of Derby, connecting students, university lecturers, and community groups across the county to work with and support each other in a true partnership and has been recognised this year with awards at the Voluntary Sector Awards and the Nursing Times Awards for their successes.

One University of Derby student commented: “It has opened my eyes to the possibilities both for employment and to signpost people to. It has highlighted that there may be opportunities and options out there for me once I graduate… I think what the volunteer sector do is absolutely amazing and I would imagine that it could be very rewarding.”

Community Chesterfield, Derbyshire Voluntary Action and University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Volunteer Marketplace Community Chesterfield

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Chesterfield businesses share more festive joy with support for the local community

Businesses across Chesterfield have shared more festive joy in the run-up to Christmas.

From fabulous charity efforts to hosting a Santa’s grotto for our four-legged friends, here’s a taste of what our business community has been up to this December.

Find out more about some of the great festive initiatives carried out by our network of Chesterfield Champions here.

Banner Jones Solicitors donates to local foodbank

The staff at Chesterfield law firm Banner Jones have come together to collect their largest ever donation for the local foodbank, Gussie’s Kitchen – including toys, toiletries and tasty treats.

Set up in April 2016 and based in St Augustine’s Church in Chesterfield, Gussie’s aims to provide a friendly social space for communities to come together, meet new people and enjoy a tasty, low cost meal made using surplus food distributed by FareShare.

Due to demand within the community Gussie’s have expanded their services to now also act as a foodbank as well as offering seasonal clothing.

The supplies donated by Banner Jones will be handed out to members of the local community using the service this Christmas.

Ann-Marie Lowe, Banner Jones’ marketing manager, said: “Christmas is a wonderful time to get together and spend quality time with families and friends, but for many people it can be an extremely difficult time of year. Especially for those who are struggling financially.

“We are delighted to have collected so many items, and to have been able to support those who are less fortunate this festive season. We hope the gifts go some way to putting a smile on someone’s face this Christmas.”

Redbrik continues to support community with charitable donations 

The Redbrik Foundation has recently donated over £3500 to organisations across Sheffield and Chesterfield.

Established in 2020, the Foundation supports several charitable organisations each year, primarily seeking to enhance the lives of children and young people, the elderly or vulnerable and those with disabilities.

The latest funds were presented to three organisations; Ashgate Hospice received a donation of £1368, £1000 was donated to The Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflake appeal and the Foundation granted £1500 to Whirlow Hall Farm.

Funds raised by Redbrik colleagues at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k in October were donated exclusively to Ashgate Hospice in memory of colleague Kirstie Snape, as per the wishes of Kirstie’s family. In March 2021, Kirstie was sadly diagnosed with cancer, and after a brave fight with many highs and lows, she passed away in September this year.

The Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflake appeal will contribute to building a helipad at the hospital to save vital minutes when every second counts for patients. Whirlow Hall Farm’s grant will provide alternative education programmes for vulnerable children and young people who cannot attend mainstream education due to a variety of medical needs, mental health issues and learning disabilities.

David Cooper, Redbrik Director and Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, said: “We are delighted to provide support to all three incredible local charities, and we know first-hand the difference these donations will make in helping the organisations continue their work for the local community.

I am proud of each and every one of our Redbrik team who took part in the 10k to raise money for Ashgate Hospice in Kirstie’s memory, and I commend their dedication to fundraising during such a difficult time.”

The Redbrik Foundation has more to offer and would love to help fund more local charities. If your charity is interested in support from The Redbrik Foundation, contact David Cooper by email on david.cooper@redbrik.co.uk.

Vicar Lane Takes part in ‘Let’s Can Hunger’ campaign

vicar lane xmas

To support Chesterfield Foodbank, Vicar Lane took part in a LET’S CAN HUNGER campaign to collect donations of essential supplies, for families and those most in need within the community this Christmas.

Having already run two very successful collections this year for the people of Ukraine, this was another opportunity for the local people of Chesterfield to give what they can, to support a charity that relies heavily on what they receive by the community.

Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator, Vicar Lane said, “We are always blown away by the generosity of our local community, so we anticipate this to be a successful collection to support the work that Chesterfield Foodbank do.”

Paperclip supports Christmas lunch for the disadvantaged

Christmas Day Lunch for the disadvantaged

Paperclip  is supporting a Christmas Day lunch for local people in need of a hot meal, some company, or assistance with mental health or substance abuse.

The businesses is helping out by providing and servicing the telephone hotline, and by volunteering on the day.

To find out more about the Christmas Day lunch event, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/christmas-lunch-for-the-disadvantaged-hosted-by-paperclip/

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care hosts Santa’s Grotto for dogs

Rossi the boxer Rose Cottage Christmas

It would be unfair to leave our precious pooches out of the festive celebrations, wouldn’t it?!

Local Doggy Day Care business, Rose Cottage have ensured dog owners can get their pets into the spirit by hosting a Santa’s Grotto, between 12th-16th December.

Aptly named, SantaPAWS enabled owners to compete for the prize of ‘best dressed’ dog. Rossi the boxer dog (pictured) came out on top with his cute reindeer antlers and Christmas jumper!

Rossi and his owner took home a hamper box worth £50 in dog treats.. Someone is going to have a very merry Christmas indeed!

Banner Jones Solicitors, Redbrik, Rose Cottage, Vicar Lane and Paperclip 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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Chesterfield Champions get involved in annual Santa Fun Run event

A number of Chesterfield Champion organisations will be represented at the Santa Fun Run, taking place in Queen’s Park in Chesterfield on Christmas Eve.

Organised by Cannon Events since 2016, the event features participants dressed in Santa suits running around the park, with a 1500m race (10am) and another one of 5k (10.30am).

Around 500 people are expected to take part, with Unit1 Fitness & Martial Arts leading the warm-ups ahead of the races and Ashover Band playing Christmas carols.

CSALS (Community Save a Life Scheme) will also be represented at the event, with the aim of raising the awareness of the need for more life-savers.

As part of the organisation’s efforts to actively promote the need for more people to learn life-saving skills, CSALS offers a free online first aid course.

Thousands of people have now completed the course, providing them with first aid skills which could result in lives being saved.

Race director John Cannon said: “A few years ago, I had a bit of an issue with my heart and ended up having an angiogram.

“The work that CSALS do is therefore close to me and I think if we can get the message out on Christmas Eve about the importance of first aid, hopefully a lot of people will take up the offer of doing the free online course. I think it’s really, really important.”

CSALS’ Nick Johnson will once again act as host at the event and he will be joined by Debra Johnson, community facilitator for the charity. Debra said: “We are really looking forward to being involved in such a popular event. It will be a great opportunity to raise awareness of the charity and promote the free online course, offered in partnership with Virtual College.”

Chesterfield Football Club’s official radio station, 1866 Sport is the official radio partner for the event, which will see funds raised for Ashgate Hospice.

To sign-up for the event, please visit www.entrycentral.com/festival/1926

To access the free online course, please click on the following link: https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/prepared

CSALS, Chesterfield Football Club and Ashgate Hospice  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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Workpays’ Big Assembly 2023 event set to inspire the next generation

A major skills event hosted by Chesterfield training provider, Workpays, is returning to Derbyshire on National Apprenticeship Week 2023.

The Big Assembly is an award-winning, annual broadcast that provides apprenticeship advice to schools, parents, students, and employers. Last year’s broadcast was watched live and on demand by 100,000 people.

Today, Workpays is proud to announce The Big Assembly will be broadcast live at the National Stone Centre, a 40 acre Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Tens of thousands of people have signed up already and, if you haven’t yet, you can too at www.bigassembly.org.

Alex Glasner, MD, Workpays, said: “The aim of the Big Assembly is simple: inspire the next generation of apprentices. For many school leavers, the broadcast is a starting point to discover what their next steps are after graduation – whether it be employment or further education. The Big Assembly is the jewel in the crown of National Apprenticeship Week.

“With more and more people tuning in each year, we are excited to partner with the stunning National Stone Centre in Derbyshire, which supports many different types of apprenticeships.

“This year’s Big Assembly will be the BIGGEST one ever.”

Sarah Fry, Head of Membership and Marketing, Institute of Quarrying said: “The National Stone Centre is the home of the Institute of Quarrying, a membership organisation which serves the on-going training and development needs of the skilled workforces of the mineral products industry. We are delighted to be hosting the Big Assembly.”

Emily Noble, Future Careers Manager, Minerals Matter said: “Minerals Matter is working across the mineral products sector and with educators to demonstrate the sustainable and diverse, exciting career opportunities that exist for young people. Having the Big Assembly at the National Stone Centre, in partnership with the D2N2 Careers Hub, enables us to further showcase this great sector and how young people can shape their world within it.”

The 2023 Big Assembly is being broadcast live from the National Stone Centre near Matlock, Derbyshire, on the 7th February at 11:10 am.

This year’s live event will include careers advice from companies big and small and from people who work in lots of different sectors, including media, construction, cars, finance, and our panel has some well-known names.

The 2023 Big Assembly is free and can be watched online. Simply sign up in advance: www.BigAssembly.org

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

The Big Assembly

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Devolution top of the agenda at East Midlands Chamber’s Annual State of the Economy Review

Businesses believe devolution could hold the cards to a more prosperous East Midlands economy – but many have said they want to see Leicestershire at the table with Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The proposed East Midlands Mayoral County Combined Authority was one of the key discussion points at East Midlands Chamber’s inaugural State of the Economy Review, held in partnership with the University of Leicester and Geldards LLP.

More than 50 business and academic leaders attended the event, held at emh group’s headquarters in Coalville today (16 December), which featured panels of business leaders speaking about how they have been affected by economic issues over the past year and future policy needs.

Amber Valley MP Nigel Mills and Nottingham North MP Alex Norris also gave speeches, in which they explained the latest situation with the East Midlands devolution deal – currently undergoing a public consultation with a view to being established in May 2024 – and how it could drive investment to the region.

The deal under review includes the local authorities across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, with a pledge to bring £1.14bn into those two counties over 30 years.

Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs at the Chamber, said: “There is a growing appetite among our business community to devolve decision-making powers over key issues like economic affairs and transport to local areas that have a greater understanding of their needs.

“While there was once a time when companies may not have wanted to wade into the debate over political structures, they have witnessed first-hand the benefits felt by their counterparts in other areas of the country with elected mayors and seen the scale of additional inward investment that devolution has facilitated.

“There was genuine excitement from businesses in the room on the opportunities devolution will bring, but also a concern that Leicestershire may end up missing out as a result of not being part of the current Derbyshire-Nottinghamshire deal.

“For businesses, the three counties are felt to be a natural economic area of co-operation – as devolution progresses, political leaders must present a clear vision for how they ensure Leicester and Leicestershire won’t be disadvantaged.

“When discussing our region’s USP, it was clear it all comes down to us being a Centre of Trading Excellence – a place for making things, moving them and innovating in how we do this – and this is something we have called on the Government to back further in our Business Manifesto for Growth via a package of measures to improve investment, innovation, infrastructure and international trade.”

The Annual State of the Economy Review took place against a backdrop of the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, which paints picture of declining activity throughout the past year but a slight renewal of confidence ahead of 2023 should the political environment stabilise.

A day earlier, the Bank of England raised interest rates from 3% to 3.5% in its latest fiscal intervention to arrest inflation, which was 10.7% in the year to November.

Chris added: “Our Quarterly Economic Survey has illustrated the myriad cost pressures and capacity constraints that firms have faced throughout the year, largely due to global headwinds but also because of our own doing in some cases.

“Looking ahead, businesses are acutely aware 2023 could be another tricky year to navigate as we enter a widely-predicted global recession, although a much shallower and shorter one than in 2008.

“As interest rates hit 3.5% and further forecasted raises are likely to impact further on already-dwindling investment intentions, there are things the Government can do to ‘get the basics right’, as we have stated in our manifesto.

“With four in five businesses with vacancies struggling to recruit throughout the year, we should be helping them to invest in skills – whether that be through expanding the remit of the Annual Investment Allowance so they can claim against training or making the Apprenticeship Levy more flexible to encompass a range of entry-level roles.

“Exporters are also growing frustrated with barriers to international trade and our relationship with the EU may once more become a big issue for 2023, while businesses will be eager to see new markets open up via trade deals to connect our region with the rest of the world.”

Chris Hobson, East Midlands Chamber

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Chesterfield’s business community reflects on achievements made in 2022

2022 has been another year which has seen major progression across Chesterfield.

The town has seen several major regeneration projects completed, including the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, The Glassyard and One Waterside Place to name just a few.

Furthermore, work is beginning on a host of developments as we head into 2023 – with work continuing on the revitalisation of Chesterfield Town Centre, and seveal projects moving forward in Staveley thanks to the Town Deal funding.

Our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have shared their successes across the area, whilst looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2023.

“Chesterfield’s biggest achievement in 2022 has been its ability to continually receive large sums funding, which allows positive change to actually happen. Now we have secured funding, the vision can be realised, which benefits everyone in our town.

“My hope for Chesterfield in 2023, is for our town centre to be prioritised. Whilst we will see an increase in vacant properties, this presents us with opportunities to change its core purpose and uses, to create something new and exciting and re-define the traditional town centre model!”

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

 

“We have seen real progression in 2022 on accessing funding and on key developments in and around Chesterfield. This has enabled the development of a platform from which the town can grow further in 2023. Going forward I am very much looking forward to seeing the redevelopment of the market in the town centre, I think this is key to the town’s success at adapting to the future retail landscape.”

Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive, NLT Training Services

“I feel our biggest success in Chesterfield is the way we have bounced back from the impact of Covid-19. Our communities, local businesses, and each of us personally have shown such resilience and there is a lot of positive change toward not letting even a global pandemic set us back.

“My hope is together we continue crafting a better future, working towards UN sustainability goals, strengthening new partnerships, and enacting change at a local level. I’m excited to be able to help shape this growth through Connect and Reflect – our shared learning sessions, I hope you’ll get involved.”

Jenny Raschbauer, Project Director of Community Chesterfield.

Jenny from DVA

“2022 has thrown many curveballs to businesses and families alike. It has been a period of change, recovery, and crisis. I believe Chesterfield’s greatest achievement is found in its ability to bounce back, to successfully galvanise businesses to work better, more collaboratively and with greater levels of support than ever before.

“I hope that we will continue to work closely together in both our businesses and within the wider communities. I hope that we can use 2022 as a benchmark for future growth and evolution, and that we will continue to build up the town and its people into a thriving place to live and work.

Graham Nash, BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax

“The determination of local businesses to keep going and keep trying, even when things are difficult has been brilliant to see in 2022. Instead of giving up, in such challenging times, I’ve witnessed small businesses being brave and bold, and taking risks to build businesses that create jobs and economic growth in our town.

“Looking to 2023, I would love to see full occupancy of retail space in our town centre. We have some great retail units, both new and old and it is sad to see them empty. Full occupancy would offer more choice for shoppers, contribute to increased footfall, and attract more visitors to our town.”

Emily Coy, Business Doctors – Chesterfield

Business Doctors

“The 10th Anniversary of the Tapton Lock Festival was our biggest achievement for Chesterfield in 2022. Organised with a wide range of community groups it was a truly diverse cultural event showcasing the best of Chesterfields creative and cultural communities.

“We hope that Chesterfield will continue to grow its cultural and creative assets in 2023 and recognise the amazing artists and creatives that work with communities across the town. We want Chesterfield to be recognised and celebrated for its creative people and cultural communities.”

Paul Steele, Managing Director, Junction Arts

“It has been wonderful to see commercial premises being built and used in 2022– in particular the Northern Gateway development.  This will encourage business into the town and create employment opportunities. In 2023 I hope to see retail and business growth in the town, taking advantage of the fantastic opportunities which Chesterfield has to offer.”

Catherine Wenborn, Vines Legal Ltd

“Chesterfield is a developing market town which boasts many historic features and landmarks to be enjoyed by all however, in the 2022 we have seen development of new buildings and renovations of existing buildings to meet the demands and progression of the town. We hope to continue to see development of the town, and this includes our move into the newly renovated Hayfield House in January 2023.”

Johnanna Brewer, Associate Solicitor, Family Law Group

“We loved celebrating the success of apprentices and employers within the local community at the Love Chesterfield Awards 2022. Looking to 2023, I hope that the unemployment rate in Chesterfield continues to fall and that employers continue to grow talent and invest in skills for their businesses and subsequently support the local community and economic growth within Chesterfield.”

Peter Roberts, DBC Training

“Chesterfield’s business community has, once again, proved how resilient it is. To have seen the growth and developments that we have during the year is testament to our ‘can do’ approach to everything.  This gives me optimism for 2023. I have no doubt the town and its business community will more than rise to all the challenges that are thrown at us and continue to prove the naysayers wrong.”

Anna Melton, In the Works PR

Anna Melton

“Despite the challenges the town has faced in 2022, the pace of construction – both in the private and public sector has not slowed down. In fact, it’s been one of the busiest years for DBCP! This shows that Chesterfield is a very investable town. Looking to 2023, I hope to see more developments coming out of the ground. This will show, once again, that Chesterfield is a town that refuses to stand still and, instead, looks forward and invests in the future of the people who live and work here.”

David Pratt, Building Control Manager, DBCP

Derbyshire Building Control Partnership

“The opening of the Enterprise Centre was a real milestone for Chesterfield in 2022. It completed the regeneration of the Northern Gateway which has given the town a ‘revitalised central area to be proud of with new buildings, a transformed former Co-op department store and attractive public realm. It is great to see investment continuing in 2023 with the Levelling Up funding. This will, I hope, give Chesterfield a future-proofed town centre which everyone can benefit from – businesses, residents, shoppers and visitors.”

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“It has been fantastic to see the continued preservation and investment in key town centre buildings throughout 2022 – like the Stephenson Memorial Hall and the former Co-op department store on Elder Way. Buildings like these give Chesterfield town centre its character and set it apart. Chesterfield has some stunning architecture which, through clever thinking is being preserved and repurposed for future users. It will be great to see the Pomegranate re-open in 2023 and new tenants in the units created at Elder Way.”

Mark Hill, Development Director, Jomast Developments

“To see Chesterfield delivering on two huge developments in the town with both the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place being completed and welcoming their first tenants has been very encouraging for the economic outlook for the town in 2023. I hope the town continues on its trajectory for developments and that Chesterfield Borough Council continues making strides to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Following our Love Chesterfield – Sustainability Award win in 2022, this is a cause very close to our hearts!”

James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants

“Chesterfield and district have adapted incredibly well to the challenges of coming out of the pandemic. There have been lots of new businesses opening – The Glass Yard in Chesterfield and the new revamped Blue Stoops in Dronfield – and some of the vibrant festivals we all enjoy have come back to the town centre.

“My hope for 2023 is that Chesterfield and district will continue to thrive. There is so much innovation in the town, but so much more that can be done to make sure we keep moving forward and build on our identity as a business, shopping, and leisure destination.”

Claire Wilks, Commercial Manager, Dronfield Heritage Trust

Christmas Light Switch On and Market Dronfield Hall Barn

“One of the stand-out successes for both Bolsterstone and the town in 2022 has been the opening of the new office block at Chesterfield Waterside with two floors in the building already let. This gives the town much-needed large floorplate, high quality office accommodation. This is yet another tick in the box to enable the town to attract further investment. Chesterfield has all the ingredients to be successful in 2023 and I am very much looking forward to the year ahead and hope it will be a successful one for the town.”

Tom Swallow, Bolsterstone Group PLC

“Our borough emerged from the pandemic in a strong position for the future and, working with partners and business networks, we have progressed and delivered on a whole raft of projects which will help ensure Chesterfield continues to thrive for years to come. Highlights for our local businesses and economy include our successful bid for almost £20m from the Government’s levelling up fund, which is helping us to revitalise our town centre and marketplace. We’re also unlocking the potential of other key sites across the borough, including as part of our Staveley Town Deal project and the opening of flagship developments like the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place – making sure we remain in a strong position to attract investment, jobs and skills provision for the benefit of local people.

“As we look to the new year we must do so against the backdrop of a changing and challenging national economic picture. But our borough has shown itself to be resilient, innovative and collaborative in all that we do, and I feel confident that we will remain in a strong position to continue our growth and realise our ambitions for the future. We firmly believe that 2023 will be another transformative year for our borough, as we continue taking positive strides forward in our work to regenerate our communities and create opportunity for local people and business.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

Tricia Gliby investment summit 2022

“2022 has had some notable successes for both the town and businesses that are based here. We have new high grade office accommodation and regeneration taking place in the town centre. I believe the investment that has been made in recent years will benefit Chesterfield significantly during the economic downturn. Chesterfield has resilience at its core and this has served and will continue to serve us well. I have lived, worked and run a business here for more than 50 years and I know the town is well-placed to ride out the recession and continue to grow. I hope that people share my optimism and continue to work together and support each other in 2023.”

Chris Sellars, Bridge Help

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

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