chesterfield business news

Chesterfield Champions kickstart 2024 with new hires and promotions

4th January 2024

Several businesses in Chesterfield, part of the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions, have started the year with positivity, by announcing new hires and promotions.

Find out which firms have been announcing growth in the town by reading our roundup below:

Banner Jones welcomes six colleagues onto trainee scheme

With 3 of its current trainee Solicitors due to qualify this month, regional law firm Banner Jones has welcomed six more colleagues from across its Chesterfield, Sheffield and Mansfield offices onto its Trainee Scheme.

Reflective of the firm’s ongoing commitment to investing in its staff, all of the candidates have completed their LPC and are now undertaking their Period of Recognised Training, following which they will be fully qualified solicitors.

Over the period of their training they will gain an understanding of several areas of law, spending a period of time in a contentious area of law, a non-contentious area of law and the Company’s compliance department.

Banner Jones’ Trainee Scheme, which is fully funded by the firm, aims to provide an opportunity for those with a desire and interest to learn new skills to further their careers, whilst also training to achieve a recognised legal qualification.

In addition to providing support to this cohort of trainees, the firm is also supporting Tim Barley in his Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship, Claudia Risorto, who joined Banner Jones in September, and is undertaking her Law Degree Apprenticeship, and various other members of staff to undertake CILEx and Licensed Conveyancing qualifications.

Commenting on the announcement Banner Jones’ CEO, Simon Wright, said: “We’re delighted to be training such a large number of colleagues to qualify as Solicitors, in addition to providing support to those undergoing various other qualifications.

“It is important to us that all of our staff enjoy working for Banner Jones, and that they have every possible opportunity to further their careers during their time with us.

“Our trainees and apprentices are an integral part of our future, and we wish them every success moving forward with their studies.”

Training Principal, Katie Ash, added: “With recruitment so difficult at the moment, and having always sought to support our employees’ development and ambitions, the decision to extend our training programme to nurture even more of our own talent was a natural one.”

Banner Jones is an award-winning regional law firm which boasts specialist departments across the full spectrum of legal services, including family law, employment law, conveyancing, dispute resolution, company formation, business sales and purchases, commercial agreements, commercial property, debt recovery and personal injury claims.

BRM bolsters dispute resolution team with four key appointments

Chesterfield and Sheffield-based law firm, BRM is delighted to announce the appointment of Director Simon Lockley, alongside Kirsty Coggin as Senior Associate, Annabel Denby Hollis as Senior Solicitor and Adam Mayer as Chartered Legal Executive, to the firm’s Dispute Resolution team.

The appointments will position BRM with the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.

Simon joins BRM with more than 30 years litigation experience with his most recent role being Head of the Sheffield Office at Lupton Fawcett.

Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam are joining Simon in the move after a combined 15 years with Lupton Fawcett and have started at the firm this week. Annabel will join BRM on 15 January 2024.

Simon is regularly instructed by both corporate and individual clients in high-value litigation and specialises in company and shareholder disputes, complex contractual claims and professional negligence.

Simon also has extensive experience in claims against employees and directors for breach of contract/duty, civil fraud and insolvency litigation.

Listed as a key individual in his field in the Legal 500 UK, Simon is regarded as ‘highly rated by clients’ and ‘technically superb’.

Simon said: “BRM is an ambitious, modern and forward-thinking firm and I am delighted to be joining its Dispute Resolution team as a Director.

“The firm is business-focussed and has a fantastic reputation in Sheffield and Chesterfield as well as the wider city region”.

“BRM is making a real statement and both my team, and I are looking forward to being part of the firm’s growth in Sheffield and its ambitions for the future.”

Rob Cooke, Head of Dispute Resolution and Executive Director at BRM, said: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome Simon, Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam to the Dispute Resolution team here at BRM.

“As we have previously worked together, I know first-hand the fantastic reputation Simon has both in the city and the profession and the positive difference he will make to our team.

“Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam will bring their collective experience to the team and will position us as the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.”

Kirsty joins the firm as Senior Associate and was recently rated as a ‘Key Lawyer’ in the Legal 500.

She said: “BRM is dynamic and forward looking. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the firm and be part of its growth and exciting vision for the future.”

New Director joins UKATA

UKATA has announced the appointment of Ali Rees (Evans) to the Board of Directors from 1st November 2023.

The Board of Directors comprises of elected individuals from the membership of the association, and whose function is to provide strategic direction and governance.

UKATA Directors have a responsibility to understand the environment in which the association is operating and to lead the association in fulfilling its purpose as effectively as possible with the resources available.

Ali’s role as a learning and development professional for the last 22 years has given her significant insight and experience in ensuring all learning interventions are effective and provide valuable return on investment. Since working in local authority, Ali has been delivering asbestos training and creating a pool of resources to assist with duty holder responsibilities for a portfolio of 600 premises and 100 housing stock.

As director, Ali will use her skills in business, HR, organisational development, and performance management to support UKATA to move forward and maintain its status as a leading trade association.

Speaking of the new appointment, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans said “Following our board meeting in October 2023, the board of directors have unanimously agreed to co-opt Ali Rees (Evans) from Caerphilly County Borough Council as a non-licensed director of UKATA. Ali has always been very supportive of UKATA, and we very much look forward to working with her more closely”.

Ali commented “I’d like to thank UKATA for giving me this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to working with them in our collective aim of ensuring effective management of asbestos in the UK through positive training solutions”.

BHP strengthens its Charities team with two senior promotions

BHP, one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the North of England, has announced two key promotions within its Charities team.

Neil Baldwin, from the firm’s Cleckheaton office, and Nicola Adams, who is based within its Chesterfield office, have both been promoted to Director RI (Responsible Individual), meaning they are able to sign off client audits on behalf of the firm.

Nicola joined the firm straight out of school in 2007, and became a Chartered Accountant in 2012, having completed her AAT qualification. Nicola was previously on the audit committee of Chesterfield College and has been a trustee of Derwent Rural Counselling Service for over 10 years, including being Chair from 2016 to 2018.

Jane Marshall DL, BHP Partner and Head of Charities and Not for Profit, said: “At BHP, we’re committed to supporting and developing the skills of our people for the long term. To see Neil and Nicola, who both joined the business at the start of their careers, take the next step on their journey is fantastic and a testament to their hard work on behalf of our charity clients.

“I look forward to continuing to work with them to support our clients as we navigate the continuing challenging economic environment.”

Nicola said: “I am extremely proud to have achieved this promotion at BHP. A Responsible Individual role was always something I personally wanted to achieve in my career. BHP has given me the support and opportunity to do this, and I am looking forward to taking on new responsibilities and putting pen to paper on audit reports.”

Six new board members appointed by East Midlands Chamber

Stuart Dawkins will remain as president of East Midlands Chamber for another year after the business representation group held its annual general meeting (AGM) in December.

The former FTSE 100 bank communications director continues in the honorary role after Dawn Whitemore, who was due to succeed him for 2024, chose to defer her year as president until it is compatible with her position as chief executive of SMB College Group.

Craig Brothers, owner of Nottinghamshire-based digital transformation consultancy Six Degrees Associates, was inaugurated as vice-president, with Dawn now set to succeed him as president at the AGM in 2025.

Six individuals were also elected to the Board of Directors, a group of 17 experienced business leaders representing different fields and sectors who provide strategic direction to the senior leadership team in driving forward the chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire.

The new board members are:

Martin Barnett, chair of TTK Confectionery (trading as The Treat Kitchen)
George Oliver, owner of 1284
Maz Patel, managing director of Scope Construction
Amit Sonpal, director of commercial banking at Barclays Bank
Anjuu Trevedi MBE, head of knowledge exchange and innovation at De Montfort University and senior partnerships development manager at Twycross Zoo
Sandra Wiggins, manufacturing mentor and leadership coach at Authentically Balanced.

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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, Chesterfield business promotions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield

Workpays outlines steps to become a leading training provider in sustainability

4th January 2024

Chesterfield training provider, Workpays has outlined the steps it has taken to be a leading training provider for sustainability.

The company has achieved Bronze Level accreditation as a Carbon Literate Organisation with its Managing Director and Director of Excellence, who have led the drive, receiving CLO accreditation. Throughout 2024, the company will roll this out to all staff through its internal Workpays Academy.

Managing Director, Alex Glasner commented: “We want to train a generation of people into careers focussed on sustainability. Therefore, we’re delighted to become the nation’s first training provider not only to offer several specialised green-focused courses, but also to embed green skills into each one of our courses. All Workpays’ courses consist of units such as Environmental Awareness, Domestic Energy Efficiency, and Sustainability.”

The organisation has made sector-specific modules to ensure learners can better understand the importance of sustainability within their area of study and interest, ranging from vocational awards and certificates to green-themed sessions for English, ESOL, and Digital Skills, giving a better understanding of how the sector can be improved and where changing legislation may affect learners’ future careers.

All of Workpays’ courses include a wide range of fusion skills (12 skills identified to be fundamental to the future world of work from research and studies done by NESTA and presented within the Education for Sustainable Development Toolkit supported by the Education and Training Foundation). Every course provides important future-proof skills such as problem-solving, higher-level analysis, and evaluation.

These awards and certificates are fully funded and Workpays has formed a newly-created green progression pathway that learners and apprentices can move through to gain the qualifications they need to find a green career or to gain a better understanding of how to be a sustainable leader.

The Sustainable Leader apprenticeship pathway has been designed to relate sustainability to standards such as Team Leader, Operations Manager, and Improvement Technician to help apprentices understand how to improve their workplace and meet the SDGs, giving real-life examples and experience.

Full green courses include:

Entry Level 3, Level 1, and Level 2 Awards in Progression
Entry Level 3 Certificate in Progression
Entry Level 3 and Level 1 Award in Mental Wellbeing
Level 1 and Level 2 Awards in Personal Wellbeing

Alex added: “Workpays is committed to being a specialist in green courses, sustainability, and leading the way in providing high-quality inclusive education for all. We have been asked to join and represent training providers within the FE sector in several forums and groups such as #SustainFE helping other institutions and organisations map and create relatable curriculum content for sustainability. Workpays will continue to build on this in the new year.”

Workpays 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, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield apprenticeships, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield careers, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Skills, Love Chesterfield, Workpays

Chesterfield businesses encouraged to grow with University of Derby support

3rd January 2024

Business leaders in Chesterfield are being encouraged to explore how they can realise the potential of their organisations, with support to grow from the University of Derby.

Help to Grow: Management is a practical training course delivered by world-class business schools, accredited by the Small Business Charter focusing on building and strengthening people’s capabilities to lead a business, delivered by the University of Derby across Derbyshire.

This course incorporates hybrid learning, peer group networks and mentoring and will support managers and leaders of small and medium-sized businesses to boost business performance, resilience, and long-term growth. The 12-week course is 90% funded and the fee payable by participants is £750. The course has been designed to allow participants to complete it alongside full-time work.

A new cohort is now available to join this January. Benefits from taking part in the course include:

Enhance your management and strategic capabilities
Produce a growth plan for your business
Build resilience to future shocks
Learn how to innovate in your business
Adopt digital technologies to boost productivity and operational agility
Develop your value proposition and reach into growth markets
Improve employee engagement and responsible business practices

One of the course tutors, Dr. Elnerine Greeff, Lecturer in Marketing at Derby Business School, commented: “I’m especially excited to form part of this Help to Grow initiative. The beauty of this programme is that we have businesses which are just starting out now, and we have people with a wealth of experience.

“It is everything that you wanted to learn in your three-year business course at university, condensed and tailor-made to your business, with face-to-face time, mentorship, and absolutely everything that you need to make successful what you are already passionate about.”

Get more information on the Help to Grow: Management programme here. To explore the range of business support available to organisations in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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

Branded stone wall in front of red brick building - University of Derby Chesterfield campus

University of Derby, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in business support, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, chesterfield news, Help to Grow, university of derby

New pottery painting shop enables Chesterfield residents to unleash their creativity

19th December 2023

A new pottery shop, which enables customers to paint their own pots has opened in Chesterfield.

Peel Pottery is now up and running in the Old Mill building of H&F on New Beetwell Street in the town centre.

The store offers a pot ceramic studio suitable for all ages and abilities, whether for the lone painter, a group of friends, work colleagues or special occasions. The shop also specialises in children’s birthday parties, hen parties and team building sessions.

Owner, Louise Peel explains where the idea for the new store came from:

“I have been learning the art of pottery for a few years now, and feel that Chesterfield deserves a lovely space for any individual to come and unleash their creativity. So I have spent some time creating an area at our shop, ready for ‘paint a pot’ and we are also in the process of setting up evening classes in pottery and other arts. I have friends willing to come down and teach jewellery making, Painting tutorials and more.

“The ceramic studio is located on the first floor of H&F and can accommodate up to 24 people, and it has a kitchen area providing light refreshments whilst you create your ceramic masterpiece.

“As a local person I feel that we need a hub that offers several independent services. The building of H&F in January will offer a café and restaurant area at the rear (Devil’s Depot), our handcrafted furniture and accessories at H&F in the main building, and our ceramic studio and workshop on the first floor. This should offer a little something for everyone all under one roof. So please pop down and visit us”

Find out more about the new centre at: www.peelpottery.co.uk or www.handf.co.uk

Visit Chesterfield for a great day out or to stay. Our town is brilliantly located in the centre of the UK, with a great range of entertainment for all ages and interests. For more information, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, chesterfield town centre, Love Chesterfield, Peel Pottery, things to do in Chesterfield, visiting chesterfield

General Election must not get in way of businesses, says Chamber

19th December 2023

The uncertainty surrounding when a General Election takes place must not get in the way of businesses’ ability to drive forward the growth that will bring down inflation and boost wages.

This was the view of business leaders speaking at East Midlands Chamber’s Annual State of the Economy Conference.

On the day the Bank of England kept the base rate at 5.25%, the highest point in 15 years, and 24 hours after the latest economic data showed the UK’s GDP shrank more than expected by 0.3% in October, speakers made the case for cross-party consensus on key economic issues such as skills, productivity, and research and development – which they said are crucial to raising business investment from its current low bar.

Among the business leaders and economists were Institute of Directors director-general Jonathan Geldart, Barclays global head of transactional FX sales Sat Khuntia, PwC East Midlands partner Alex Hudson, Freeths Leicester managing partner Lisa Gilligan, Future Life Wealth Management founder and divisional director Jillian Thomas, and Mukesh Bulsara, partner at business advisory services firm Coadax and vice-chair of Leicestershire Business Voice.

Data from the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, run in partnership with the University of Leicester School of Business, was presented to give a snapshot of the past year. It showed how after a general improvement in activity and sentiment throughout the first half of 2023 there has been an overall slowdown towards the end of this year.

Historical trends show activity often slows ahead of a General Election

East Midlands Chamber director of policy and insight Chris Hobson said: “Our Quarterly Economic Survey results for 2023 can be viewed as a game of two halves, with the recent slowdown underpinned by a decrease in advanced orders – both at home and overseas – along with a weakening labour market, flat investment intentions and a decline in cashflow performance.

“Driving this has been, firstly, fiscal pressures from 14 consecutive increases in the base rate by the Bank of England. It may be the lag time between rate hikes and subdued consumer demand has now passed and we are experiencing the full impact of that prolonged, proverbial belt-tightening.

“Away from this, we’re also experiencing an unpredictable political environment, with multiple ‘resets’ as the country gears up for a General Election. This has meant an increase in policy announcements, arguably with more of an eye on positioning as opposed to meaningful growth strategies for UK plc.

“Looking at historical trends via our State of the Economy Index, it’s not unusual to see things slow down ahead of an election, but the concern is that continued uncertainty about when this might take place could act to lengthen the duration of this for businesses.

“Sentiment is an incredibly powerful – and often underestimated – factor in economic activity. As businesses seek surety over the environment into which they’ll be investing over the coming 12 months, it’s incumbent on all parties to ensure we don’t allow the nature of our political cycles to mean we are found wanting.

“But one note of confidence – this time 12 months ago, many were predicting a recession in 2023 that never materialised. And when talking to individual businesses, the big picture trends we see are hiding many, many positive stories of growth and success.”

East Midlands Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey Q4 2023 findings

Key findings from the Quarterly Economic Survey Q4 2023 for the East Midlands, which was completed by 370 organisations between 6 and 30 November 2023, included:

UK and overseas sales have each remained steady throughout the year, increasing by a net 2% between the third and fourth quarters, but there were declines in advanced orders for a net 9% and 10% for UK and overseas respectively
Recruitment has slowed with a net 8% drop in businesses that added to their headcount in the prior three months compared to the previous quarter, although there was a net 1% rise in firms expecting to increase their workforce in the next three months
Many employers continue to face challenges with filling job vacancies – 55% of organisations attempted to recruit and, of those, more than seven in 10 (72%) experienced problems in finding suitable staff. Skilled manual and technical, and professional and managerial roles were the most difficult to fill.
After easing throughout the year, price rises are back on the agenda. In Q1, 54% of businesses had expected to increase their prices due to cost pressures from energy, raw materials, people and fuel. This fell to 30% in Q3 before rising again to 40% in the final quarter of the year, with increased labour costs the main driver
A net 7% of firms reported cashflow was down in Q4, a 6% rise from the previous quarter
There was no difference in intentions to invest in plant and equipment between the third and fourth quarters, but investment intentions for training increased by 5%. Both indicators have remained very low throughout 2023, with the total proportion of firms intending to increase their investment never climbing above 20%
Business confidence shows a mixed picture, with confidence in profitability prospects down by 2% compared to the previous quarter but up by 4% for turnover expectations.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, east midlands chamber, Love Chesterfield

More new openings at Vicar Lane as centre reaches over 90% occupancy

18th December 2023

As it heads into the all-important festive period, Vicar Lane will have over 90% occupancy rate in time for Christmas, with five new openings at the scheme this year.

The centre team’s new leasing strategy has involved targeting local independent businesses to re-enliven the previously struggling street, Steeplegate, as an independent quarter. This has led to three new independents acquiring space at the scheme this year.

Two tenants have moved from Market Hall in Chesterfield to the centre to expand into bigger units. For sustainable toy shop, The Little Ark, this has resulted in a 200-480% increase in sales week-on-week. For Spirits & Beer Specialist, Street Spirit, their opening day saw 300 visitors come to the store and it has been positive ever since with a large increase in visitors to the shop compared to their shop in Market Hall.

Coffee shop, Coffee #1 officially opened on Thursday 30^th November in the prominent unit by Vicar Lane’s event space on St James Square. They serve a range of hot drinks, coffees and pastries, which has proven very popular with the local community.

Two clothing stores also opened at the scheme. Vintage clothing store, Y Not Vintage opened in June and designer clothing store, Brand Runner opened on 2^nd December.

These recent openings will see over 90% of units filled by the end of 2023. This includes two units which have been utilised for Vicar Lane’s Christmas campaign. One unit has been transformed into a Winter Wonderland Christmas Grotto and another has become Santa’s Elf Workshop where an Elf Training Academy and festive crafts take place.

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager said “I am delighted in the interest in Vicar Lane, both from visitors and potential occupiers. We have really focussed our efforts on welcoming independents to the scheme this year as well as supporting our current tenants. The management team aim to provide a great experience for everyone here so it’s fantastic to see the hard work and changes have paid off.”

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield.

Looking to start-up or grow your business? Find out why Chesterfield is the perfect base to help you achieve your ambitions.

Vicar Lane 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, Christmas, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield shopping, Love Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Year of progress for Chesterfield’s property and construction sector

15th December 2023

2023 has been a year of strong progress for Chesterfield’s property and construction sector, with many of the town’s major investment schemes reaching milestones.

Office success

Opened in January 2023, the new office space at One Waterside Place was fully occupied less than 12 months later. The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has also seen success with 80% of office space let by its first anniversary.

Town centre investment

These new hubs are encouraging further inward investment in our town centre, boosting jobs, and increasing footfall to support other surrounding businesses. One example is the apartment hotel planned opposite the Enterprise Centre. The £1m Holywell Hotel by Voeberg will boost overnight stays in our town for both business and leisure, supporting the town’s ambitious growth strategy.

At the Chesterfield Investment Summit back in October, we heard about the investment going into town centres across the borough. Almost £9m will be spent on improving Chesterfield town centre, with a revamp of the marketplace and key points of interest around the heart of the town, and a £17m project has begun to remodel and refurbish the Stephenson Memorial Hall – extending the Pomegranate Theatre and modernising Chesterfield Museum.

Investing in skills

In addition, Staveley’s high street will see a £6 million boost which will transform the area and make our town a more attractive proposition for visitors and businesses in the retail and food and drink sectors. The funding is part of a £25m deal to spend on 10 regeneration projects for Staveley, including the restoration of Chesterfield Canal up to Renishaw, Hartington Industrial Park, which has now been levelled, a modern rail innovation and training centre at Barrow Hill, which invited tenders at the end of 2023, and the Construction Skills Hub.

I’m delighted to see the new mobile Construction Skills Hub now operational, initially at Mastin Moor, helping to bring forward the next generation of talent in the sector. We know that firms are currently facing recruitment issues due to a skills shortage. So, we are all excited by the prospect of 5,000 learners being trained right here in Chesterfield between now and 2030. I can only speak from experience when I say that a career in property is a truly rewarding and exciting one!

It was also fantastic to see the latest plans for The Gateway @PEAK revealed at the Chesterfield Investment Summit, bringing an all-year leisure, education, wellness, and entertainment destination to our town, further cementing Chesterfield’s credentials as a base for exploring the beautiful Peak District.

Partnership working

Throughout this year, Chesterfield Property and Construction Group members have played an important role in increasing partnerships between the public and private sectors. The group has consistently focused on 5 key themes. These include town promotion, skills and talent development, business engagement, addressing the climate emergency, and providing support to the Local Authority’s endeavours in supporting the town and the property sector.

In 2023, the group tailored its activities to deliver tangible outcomes, including:

Property Forums: Providing updates on the latest market activity to local property businesses.
Activity at UKREiiF: Group members attended the event in Leeds, which is seen as one of the UK’s largest investment shows. The group, alongside Destination Chesterfield, officially launched the Chesterfield Investment Prospectus and championed the town during panel discussions and networking sessions with sector colleagues.
Careers Made in Chesterfield: 11 businesses participated in workshops at Parkside Community School to showcase the range of careers available within the industry to 110 students. This resulted in 14 high-quality placements for young people to learn about the property and construction sector.
Skills and Talent Masterclass: Facilitating discussions among key figures from property and construction, alongside skills and training providers, to address the sector’s skills challenges.
Quality and Sustainability Masterclass: Exploring sustainable development in Chesterfield and emphasizing its importance for the town’s future.
Regular Social Media Activity: Highlighting key industry updates on topics such as skills, sustainability, and diversity, and promoting town developments.
Networking and Social Events: Including walking tours and brewery visits to support business-to-business relationship development.

The group, part of Destination Chesterfield, will continue its focus on building resilience and collaborating to support Chesterfield’s economy. Chesterfield remains an attractive destination for investment. We look forward to strengthening existing relationships, as well as forging new ones, and adapting to the evolving needs of the town.

Professionals within the Property and Construction Sector keen on learning more about the group’s plans are encouraged to reach out to Destination Chesterfield by email.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Featured, Property and ConstructionTagged in Andy Dabbs, chesterfield business news, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Property and construction group, Whittam Cox Architects

Businesses celebrate Chesterfield’s biggest successes from 2023

15th December 2023

2023 has seen significant investment in Chesterfield, with sites including One Waterside Place, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, and Hartington Business Park all helping to grow our town’s economy.

Meanwhile, announcements of further developments in the town continue to drive forward economic activity, with multi-million pound projects set to get underway in Chesterfield and Staveley’s town centres. Planning permission has been submitted for the much anticipated Gateway @Peak development, giving visitors a base to explore Chesterfield and the Peak District.

With major progress being made across our town in 2023 and further ambitions for growth in 2024, the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have shared with us their biggest successes from the past 12 months.

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“This year, it has been great to see the success of the town’s new flagship office spaces, One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. Elsewhere, Markham Vale continues to attract new businesses to the area, and Staveley’s Hartington Business Park has also demonstrated a strong appetite from businesses to invest in our town. In 2024, I look forward to projects such as the Gateway @Peak, the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, and the revitalisation of our high streets boosting Chesterfield’s regeneration even further.”

About Destination Chesterfield.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader, Chesterfield Borough Council

“There is lots to be excited about in 2024. We will continue to put external funding to good use by investing in the future of our borough, our project to revitalise Chesterfield town centre will begin and link with the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall into a world-class theatre and museum. Working with our Staveley Town Deal partners, significant progress will be made towards realising the ambitious projects that will ensure the town is a place to start, to stay and to grow. We will also be investing in more affordable housing for our community. Heading into 2024 we continue to face some difficult decisions around our budget, but we will ensure that putting our community first is at the heart of everything we do.”

About Chesterfield Borough Council

Dom Stevens, Manager, Destination Chesterfield

“2023 has been a year of positivity and progress. New events such as Peddler Market, Chesterfield Children’s Festival, and Eat in the Park, alongside established favourites, have helped to support our independent businesses and the wider economy. In 2024, I look forward to more of the same, with partnerships and collaborations helping bring forward our town’s ambitions.”

About Destination Chesterfield.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager, DBCP

“The new office developments in Chesterfield have been a triumph for the town in 2023. They have attracted businesses into the town and set the bar for construction standards and high quality where building control is concerned. With all the developments happening now, and in the future, it is an opportunity for the town to lead on build quality next year and beyond.”

About DBCP

Amy McCroray, Marketing Administrator, Rosewood Wealth Management

This year, Rosewood has enjoyed being part of Chesterfield’s flagship regeneration project, Chesterfield Waterside. Joining 3 other businesses in relocating to the environmentally-friendly Basin Square office building, the development will encourage more visitors to Chesterfield and create stronger local business links. Looking ahead to 2024, the Rosewood team is most optimistic about the continued regeneration of the town with upcoming projects to include the refurbishment of Chesterfield train station.

About Rosewood Wealth Management

Nick Grayson, Managing Director, Pinelog Limited

“2023 was the year that Pinelog became part of Chesterfield’s business community, after we relocated our manufacturing premises from Bakewell to Sheepbridge. Being able to see Chesterfield’s success developing in real time and the growth in business premises has been immensely encouraging. There is so much happening in the town, and I am delighted that the business is now part of the story. 2024 will be an exciting year for Pinelog and Chesterfield.”

Anna Melton, Owner and Director, In the Works PR

“What a year 2023 has been! Full of highs and lows, which Chesterfield has dealt with and, in many cases, emerged stronger. Looking to the future, I have high hopes for the town centre. There is a lot of investment taking place and the new offices at the Donut and Waterside are adding to footfall. I think 2024 will be the year that local people rediscover Chesterfield town centre.”

About In the Works PR

Rob Woodhead, Head of Private Client and Executive Director, BRM Solicitors

“2023 has seen a year of progressive change for Chesterfield and we’re looking forward to seeing what 2024 will bring for the town. We’re delighted to continue to be one of the leading providers of commercial and private client legal services in the area and we’re delighted to champion Chesterfield as a great place to do business as well as being a sought-after place to live. We’ve had another successful year supporting the local community and being a part of the ongoing regeneration of the town through various commercial property deals.”

About BRM Solicitors

Siân Spencer Bray, Clinical Director & Lead Psychotherapist, Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic

“2023 has brought to light the togetherness of our businesses. With many collaborations and partnerships, you can see how passionate Chesterfield businesses are about working closely with each other to offer more to customers and service users. The increase in events in and around Chesterfield brings a great sense of community and showcases many of the wonderful businesses we have too. It is wonderful to see so many businesses championing positive mental health and wellness in their workplaces and within the community.”

About Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic

Josh Dickens, Business Development & Marketing Manager, SMH Group

“Chesterfield FC is the biggest success story in our opinion, and we aren’t just saying this because of our sponsorship of the stadium. The team’s captivating performance promises the potential for promotion, anticipating increased attendance, TV exposure, sponsorship opportunities, and financial support for various developmental aspects. Additionally, the Community Trust’s takeover has fostered stability and trust, attracting businesses and fans eager to support the restructured setup.”

About SMH Group

Mike Jones, Customer Relationship Manager, Windowcharm Blinds & Curtains

“Over the past year, there have been many successes for Chesterfield. One of the biggest achievements has been the town’s ability to maintain a strong economy despite the challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis. The community has shown resilience and adaptability, and I believe this will continue to be a driving force for growth in the years to come. With continued investment in infrastructure and businesses, the town has the potential to become a hub for innovation and a destination for visitors.”

About Windowcharm Blinds & Curtains

Chris Sellars, Chief Executive and Legal Counsel, Bridge Help

“The floods were devastating for the town, including a member of the Bridge Help team whose home was flooded. However, to see how everyone pulled together helping residents and businesses, confirmed that Chesterfield’s spirit continues to be strong in adversity. 2024 will be a challenging year for the country, however I have no doubt that Chesterfield will not only come out fighting but stronger – if past performance is anything to go by.”

About Bridge Help

James Pogson, Managing Director, Northern Tea Merchants

“The floods brought devastation to Chatsworth Road and surrounding areas this year, and Northern Tea Merchants was one of the many businesses affected. Whilst terrible, I was delighted at how the community rallied to support each other. Changes need to be made, so I am looking forward to seeing new and successful flood prevention measures in 2024, that will preclude this from happening again and will benefit residents and businesses.”

About Northern Tea Merchants

Jamie Wajs, Owner, Lime Living Estate Agents

“The town continues to show that it has an attractive and strong local business and employment economy and there has been a good level of positive investment in new infrastructure during 2023 and with more in the pipeline for 2024. This is making Chesterfield an attractive place to live and work, with the town having a lot more to offer.”

About Lime Living Estate Agents

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law, Banner Jones Solicitors

“I’m excited to see that there have been so many new business start-ups over the year and businesses relocating to Chesterfield. As a Chesterfield business of 145 years, it is important for us that the local economy grows and strengthens. We continue to build strategic partnerships with local businesses (including other Chesterfield Champions) offering a full range of commercial legal services and employment law services”.

About Banner Jones Solicitors

Stuart Rooker, Careers Lead, Direct Education Business Partnership

“It’s been fantastic to see a brand-new programme piloted in Chesterfield this year and set to expand over the next four. The ‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ (CMiC) workshop programme is an exciting initiative to deliver careers-related workshops in schools and forge links with local businesses. The pilot focused on the property and construction sector, and the project will widen to include health and care, and engineering and manufacturing.”

About Direct Education Business Partnership

David Whiteley, Co-Director, FWD Motion

“Chesterfield’s ongoing resilience is what really stands out for me in 2023. It has been incredibly moving to see the community come together to support one another. We simply hope that in 2024 we see our residents, workers, and businesses back on their feet.”

About FWD Motion

Rod Auton, Secretary, Chesterfield Canal Trust

“I’m delighted that One Waterside Place is now fully occupied. Hopefully this will be the encouragement needed for the rest of the developments around the canal basin at Chesterfield Waterside to get underway. I am very much looking forward to the Staveley Town Deal’s canal projects starting on the ground after years of planning. These are the construction of the first building at Staveley Town Basin, the new Trans-Pennine Trail Bridge and the subsequent restoration of the canal further east.”

About Chesterfield Canal Trust

Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP Chartered Accountants

“Chesterfield is experiencing a renaissance, with schemes like the £340 million Waterside Regeneration project playing a vital role in attracting both talent and high-quality businesses to the area. Our home, One Waterside Place, a desirable location next to the station, has proved the mantra ‘build it and they will come’, with its six floors of Grade A office accommodation now fully let. It was fantastic to see the Government award a £20 million grant from the Levelling Up Fund which will support the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, modernisation of Chesterfield Museum with new education, and community facilities.”

About BHP Chartered Accountants

Amy Revell, Co-Founder and Director, We Are Spaces

“The office market in Chesterfield has been a great success! One Waterside Place is now fully let, The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is more than 85% occupied, The Glass Yard is around 95% occupied and The HQ Building is proving popular. These successes then support further developments to materialise and ensure a good level of Grade A office space continues to be available. I believe we are very well placed to ensure businesses can recruit and retain skilled people in high quality and affordable workspaces.”

Paul Lewis, Head of Partnerships, Mortgage 1st

“It is tough to narrow it down to one standout moment from the year but the town benefitting from £20m over the next 10 years via the Government levelling up investment fund was a pivotal success for Chesterfield in 2023; this along with further investment in and around the town will hopefully see the town centre flourish once more. The hope of enhanced amenities and job opportunities means that we can all look forward to 2024 with great optimism.

About Mortgage 1st

Matt Close, UK Business Lead, NeoDyne

“2023 marks a milestone for NeoDyne with our first Christmas in Chesterfield. The Borough Council has successfully attracted and supported new businesses in 2023, and we’ve certainly experienced the welcome and benefitted from their support. Looking forward to 2024, we’re excited about the continued investment in the town centre and Waterside regeneration projects. We intend to play our part by championing Chesterfield as a great place to live and work.”

Richard Fowler, Technical Sales and Account Manager, RA Information Systems

“Having worked alongside our customers for over two decades, we have seen a remarkable transformation in Chesterfield’s business landscape. The recent success of Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place, coupled with a surge in office space demand, reflects the town’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and tech-driven environment for businesses. This achievement positions Chesterfield as a robust hub, creating a ripple effect that not only attracts investment but also contributes to technology-driven workspace provision for the local community. Exciting times lie ahead as we continue to shape Chesterfield’s economic success story.”

About RA Information Systems

Emma Pymm, Head of Partnerships and Client Relations, ActionCoach

“The real success for Chesterfield is the continued progression of our business community working together and building impactful relationships. I hope that we can continue to put Chesterfield on the map as not just a through town to the beautiful Peak District, but a thriving gateway for visitors to enjoy and make unforgettable memories. In turn, this will build our economy for future generations. I believe the Gateway at PEAK will play a major part in supporting this.”

Kriston Harvey, Director, Rodgers Leask

“I think the biggest success in 2023 has been the strength of the public and private sector collaboration to drive forward the numerous local projects. It was evident from the full house at the Chesterfield Investment Summit just how broad the support is within the local business community. On a personal level, I was delighted to be involved with the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative. It was great to see the enthusiasm from the students and excellent to hear that a number were now considering a career in the construction industry!”

About Rodgers Leask

Jimmy Drew, Commercial Manager, Derbyshire County Cricket Club

“Our five days of cricket at the picturesque Queen’s Park are the highlight of our calendar, especially the T20 match. In front of a sold-out crowd, an incredible atmosphere and a record victory of 144 runs in 2023, we hope next year’s festival can be bigger and better than previous years, as we continue to put on a brilliant event for the residents in the north of the county.”

About Derbyshire County Cricket Club

Emily Bowman, Managing Director, Junction Arts

“Here at Junction Arts, we are extremely proud of the Chesterfield Children’s Festival that we delivered this year. We welcomed over 8,500 people across the two-day event, boosting the town centre economy and encouraging families to experience a range of creative activities. We are excited to build our offer for Chesterfield next year and are looking forward to creating more memorable moments for families to come together, share ideas and get creative!”

About Junction Arts

Catherine Wenborn, Managing Director, Vines Legal Limited

“The biggest success for Chesterfield over the last year is the continued creation of great spaces for work and leisure encouraging businesses to relocate and visitors to the town. In the coming year I hope to see currently unoccupied premises filled or redeveloped to good purpose.”

Nick Gorman, Owner, CCM Change Consultancy

“The sustained and growing synergetic relationships in our Chesterfield business community continue to be a highlight of working in the town. The networking and knowledge share are vital to the quest for a thriving and rewarding business environment. Our future strategy should involve a plan that looks to capitalise on the environmental ambitions of CBC, matching our local business passion, acumen, professionalism, and innovation with a pursuit of sustainability.”

About CCM Change Consultancy

Georgia Severn, Sales Co-ordinator and Head of Marketing, Custom Solar

“The biggest success for Chesterfield 2023 from my perspective at Custom Solar is the increase in local business’ investments into renewables. We’ve helped multiple clients in our local hometown start their journey to Net-Zero with Solar PV installations, which inevitably, supports the town’s goals too. For 2024 we are excited to continue supporting our neighbouring companies reduce their Carbon emissions as we already have multiple projects for Chesterfield in our pipeline.”

About Custom Solar

Ben Knights, Trainee Estates Manager, FI Real Estate Management

Within 2023 FI Real Estate Management has seen numerous changes to businesses ways of working and how they want to utilise the space in which they work from. Chesterfield itself is almost perfectly adapted to these requirements with the council identifying these trends early and creating space to help nurture growing local businesses. Something we also did ourselves was helping create high quality office space at both The HQ and The Quad in Chesterfield.

About FI Real Estate Management

Emma Woodhall, Director, Learning Curve Group Hair and Beauty Academies

“It’s been a great year for us; we were awarded Training Provider of the Year at the 2023 VTCT Awards. Looking to 2024 our aim is to support hundreds more learners in the region to achieve qualifications to succeed in the industry, training the next generation of beauty therapists and hairstylists! We are looking to build upon current relationships to retain talent within Chesterfield, and support local business.”

The businesses 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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield blog, Chesterfield business community, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Chesterfield regeneration, Love Chesterfield

Regional unemployment rate remains among lowest in the UK

13th December 2023

The East Midlands’ unemployment rate has remained at 3.7% for the fifth month running, new figures by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.

It puts the region near the top of the list for having a low proportion of over-16s out of work and significantly below the UK average of 4.2%.

The data, for the period between August and October 2023, means the region’s unemployment rate has now been under 4% for the past two years, having last been above the threshold in the three months to October 2021.

The economic inactivity rate for 16 to 64-year-olds – which measures the number of working-age people who have dropped out of the labour market for reasons such as retirement, caring duties, long-term ill health or studying – remained at 20.9% for the East Midlands for the third consecutive month, above a pre-pandemic trend around the 19% mark.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The fact our region’s unemployment rate has remained at a relatively low level for such a prolonged period is testament to the efforts and resilience of our region’s business community in the face of significant economic challenges.

“Rising economic inactivity has been one of the greatest concerns over the past couple of years as it led to a dwindling labour market, which has restricted capacity – and therefore the ability to grow, raise productivity and bring prices down.

“While this rate remains above pre-Covid levels, it’s pleasing to see this has now come down by about 2% throughout this year, giving firms more room to manoeuvre.

“However, our own research shows there is no room for complacency. Our Quarterly Economic Survey shows a net 7% of businesses have increased their workforce during the final three months of 2023, compared to a net 15% in the previous quarter – an indication of the tough trading challenges that persist. Over the next three months, a net 17% expect their workforce to expand in size, so prospects may improve.

“Many employers continue to face challenges with filling job vacancies. More than half (55%) of organisations attempted to recruit during Q4, and more than seven in 10 (72%) of these experienced problems in finding suitable staff. There are particular shortages to fill skilled manual and technical roles, as well as professional and managerial positions.”

East Midlands Chamber published its regional economic blueprint, titled A Centre of Trading Excellence: A Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond, in November last year, urging Government to focus on the “four Is” of investment, innovation, infrastructure and international trade.

It set out a list of policies to encourage businesses to invest in their people, including introducing flexible incentives for businesses that invest in staff training and bringing forward the introduction of the Lifelong Loan Entitlement to support retraining and the retainment of an older workforce.

Scott added: “We really need a dedicated Government policy that supports companies to invest in their people, whether that be in upskilling their existing workforce or reskilling prospective employees to fill skills gaps.

“We must also tailor policies to recognise the diversity of people who are out of work and avoid a one-size-fits-all solution. We would also like to see Government work with businesses to offer support, and share best practice, on what a flexible and inclusive workplace looks like as this is another vital ingredient in enticing people back to work.”

To read the Chamber’s Business Manifesto for Growth, A Centre of Trading Excellence, visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/manifesto.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in business news, chesterfield business news, east midlands business news, east midlands chamber, East midlands employment figures

Chesterfield’s Addooco celebrates 15th anniversary with award win

13th December 2023

A Chesterfield IT company is celebrating, after winning a coveted award at the same time as marking 15 years of continued success.

Addooco began with humble beginnings in a small office at Chesterfield’s Dunston Innovation Centre with predominantly local clients, before a move in 2016 to state-of-the-art offices on Dunston Technology Park.

Now with global reach and a new best-of-breed data centre, featuring the latest in cutting-edge technology, Addooco celebrated its 15^th Anniversary in 2023.

To cap off an excellent year, Addooco were recently named Technology Supplier of the Year at the Taxi Summit & All Industry Awards.

The Addooco team attended a lavish evening held at The Troxy in London, celebrating the achievements of leading industry fleets and suppliers and attended by nearly 500 business leaders.

On receiving their prestigious Award, Richard Walters, Addooco’s Managing Director, commented: “I am super proud to be celebrating 15 years in business and Addooco being named Technology Supplier of the Year is the icing on the cake.”

Richard added: “We have a great team who work tirelessly and around the clock, who understand our clients and the industries they operate in. Being recognised for our efforts, hard work and progress with this Award feels amazing”.

Addooco IT provides a comprehensive range of managed IT, Cloud, Telecommunications & Support services to progressive organisations across the UK.

The company is a proud Chesterfield-based business, owned by local people and with a team who virtually all live in the town, many of whom have graduated through the company’s successful apprentice scheme.

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

Invest in Chesterfield – the perfect location for your business

North Derbyshire is cost-effective, well-connected and full of potential.

Invest in Chesterfield and you will join businesses from world-leading manufacturers to multinational communication companies. Enterprises of every kind already benefit from our positive approach, supportive community, superb travel links and excellent strategic location.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Addooco IT, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield IT Companies, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Technology Companies, Love Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council agrees new partnership with University of Derby

12th December 2023

Chesterfield Borough Council and the University of Derby have signed a new strategic partnership agreement to establish a closer working relationship and recognise shared ambitions between the two organisations.

The agreement was officially signed by Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, at a ceremony in Chesterfield Town Hall on Monday 11 December.

The strategic partnership agreement sets out three joint ambitions:

To establish Chesterfield as a University town – delivering higher level skills and education for our people and employers.
To work jointly with business partners, education providers and the public sector to deliver world leading research that drives innovation, provide world class facilities to meet the needs of our community and establish a platform to help our entrepreneurs reach their potential.
To use our combined assets, within community partnership across Chesterfield, to raise people’s aspirations through delivering effective core skills, careers information, support and advice.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I am delighted to have signed this agreement with the University of Derby, on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council. This agreement sets out our joint ambition to establish Chesterfield as a University town. Strengthening higher level skills and education across the borough will bring with it further opportunities for residents, businesses, and support for wider economic growth.

“Working with our partners across the borough we are also ambitious to establish opportunities for world leading research and world class facilities to drive innovation and bring inspirational opportunities for our communities and entrepreneurs, helping everyone to reach their potential.

“I look forward to working closely with the University of Derby over the coming years to help achieve our ambitions of being a thriving borough and improving the quality of life of local people.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “As Derbyshire’s only university we take our role working with communities and organisations very seriously, and this Strategic Partnership Agreement underlines our commitment to driving ambition and positive change.

“I am looking forward to seeing the positive impacts of this partnership as we work together to support skills development and improve outcomes for the people and businesses of Chesterfield and the surrounding area.”

The strategic partnership agreement also sets out a series of high level outcomes to which both organisations are committed over the next three years, focusing on the themes of:

Health and wellbeing, community, skills and resilience
Innovation and research
Experiential learning and curriculum design
Brand profile and awareness
Assets and investment

To achieve these ambitions and outcomes a delivery plan is being developed which focusses on the assets of the University and within Chesterfield borough. It will also identify the resources both organisations can contribute to achieving the ambitions laid out in the partnership agreement.

University of Derby and Chesterfield Borough Council 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, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield borough council, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield Education, chesterfield news, Chesterfield partnerships, Chesterfield Skills, university of derby