chesterfield champions

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

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Multiple accolades for Superior Wellness at UK Pool & Spa Awards

Chesterfield based Superior Wellness were successful in winning several awards at the prestigious event held on 8 December 2022 in Birmingham.

The first award success was for the International Team of the Year, with the Superior Wellness Logistics team winning. Luke Shiels, Logistics Manager said: “We are over the moon to win this award, it’s great for the team to be acknowledged at the UK Pool & Spa awards. I am extremely proud of my team for all of their effort and hard work this year! We have all pulled together to make partner deliveries as smooth as possible and ensure that trade show season went ahead without any issues. Well done to all of you!”

The second accolade was for Marketing Initiative of the Year – for the location shoots. Superior Wellness has invested heavily in its marketing department with location shoots being a main focus throughout 2022. The team have travelled all over the country to many beautiful destinations and from this has been able to produce high quality marketing material for brands and partners.

Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “I am delighted that we have won the Marketing Initiative of the Year Award.  Our content has gone up a level with our new marketing studio and on location photoshoots. The team have worked incredibly hard, and I am very proud of them all.”

Superior wellness marketing team

Superior Wellness also received a Gold Award for the following categories:

  • Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – AquaSolus Eco-Heatlock
  • Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – Platinum Premium Shield
  • Spa Product of the Year – Ruby hot tub, Thermals Spas
  • Spa Product of the Year – Tokyo hot tub, Platinum Spas
  • Pool and Spa Supplier of the Year – Platinum Spas
  • Marketing Initiative of the Year – Marketing Studio

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “It is a great honour for us all to end the year with the award success, the team have been working hard all year and it’s great to see that all of their hard work has been recognised. I am extremely proud of the whole team.”

Showcasing the very best examples of pool and spa design from across the country, the UK Pool & Spa Awards celebrated its 12th anniversary with featured projects and products.  With 225 entries from 60 companies to assess, 22 judges were involved in the 2022 decision-making.

Entrants were awarded gold, silver or bronze standard in the competition covering both home and public pool and spa facilities in a contest that attracted over 2,000 on-line votes and votes from judges, before being scrutinised by an independent jury.

Winners across 30 categories were announced during the presentation at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 8 December which featured a guest appearance from The Pool Guy, a pool maintenance specialist from Bedfordshire, who boasts 13.7 million followers on Tik-Tok and over one million likes on You Tube.

More information on the awards, including a full list of winners, can be found at www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

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

Superior wellness team

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Chesterfield Champions sponsor local community awards ceremony

Several Chesterfield Businesses and organisations have pledged to sponsor the upcoming BrightLife ‘Champions Against Loneliness’ Awards.

The ceremony is set to held at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield, on February 17th, 2023.

The awards evening is a fundraising event at which the local charity BrightLife will acknowledge and celebrate those members of society who have gone above and beyond in their actions to ensure that loneliness and isolation doesn’t occur amongst older people living within Chesterfield, Bolsover and North East Derbyshire.

The 2023 award categories will include:

  • Champion
  • Champion Young Person
  • Champion Volunteer
  • Champion Medical Professional
  • Champion Carer
  • Champion Business
  • Champion Neighbour
  • Champion Family
  • Champion Charity

Sponsors for the event include Banner Jones Solicitors, Heron Publications – the producer of Twist Magazine, and 1866 Sport – the official radio station of Chesterfield Football Club.

Ann-Marie Lowe, Marketing Manager of Banner Jones Solicitors commented: “Banner Jones has worked alongside BrightLife (formerly Age Concern Chesterfield and District) for several years as we have always recognised the importance of supporting the elderly and vulnerable in our society.

Unfortunately we see the effects of loneliness in our everyday work with clients and it was this that gave us a reason to get behind this event and help to raise money for this outstanding local charity.”

Mike Firth, Director of Heron Publications commented “We are proud how closely our magazines are tied to the fabric of the communities they serve. When we heard that BrightLife was planning to recognise some of the most deserving individuals and groups in these communities, we were interested to find out more.

“We are excited to be a sponsor of the event and urge anyone who knows someone who strives to combat older people’s loneliness and isolation to get involved.”

Bridget Ball, 1866 Sport’s marketing manager, added: “We are delighted to be working with BrightLife and helping them recognise those have helped combat loneliness.”

If you or anyone you know has helped to prevent loneliness and isolation amongst older people living within your community, please submit a nomination at www.brightlife.charity/champions or phone BrightLife on 01246 273333.

Casa Hotel

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Rosewood Wealth Management receives prestigious industry recognition

Rosewood Wealth Management recently received recognition from Bankhall, a national provider of regulatory compliance support within the financial services industry.

Winning the Best Small Adviser of the Year 2022, Donna Robertson co-director at Rosewood commented: “Rosewood are extremely proud and delighted to have accepted the award, which was based on commitment to compliant advice, diligence in delivering the best outcome for clients and feedback from file reviews and compliance visits to the office”.

A crucial element of Rosewood’s ethos is continuous improvement with a holistic commitment to process driven efficiencies.

Having undergone a recent certification audit, Rosewood has been accredited with ISO 9001 evidencing their commitment to a quality management system along with ISO 14001 demonstrating commitment to reducing their impact on the environment.

Shannan Pool-Gorman, co-director at Rosewood commented: “These global accreditations mean that any current or potential client has peace of mind that they are dealing with a company that has high quality standards embedded within their operating methods and company culture, which is very important to us and something we really pride ourselves on”.

Rosewood Wealth Management believes in providing all of their clients a truly individualised financial advice service. Whether a client is just starting their journey and buying their first home, looking towards their first investment, saving for their future or looking to enjoy their wealth, Rosewood is there to help and provide guidance and support with a service tailored to each client.

The services they provide include investments, pensions, protection – including business protection and general insurance – mortgages, and equity release.

To find out more about the fantastic range of businesses in Chesterfield’s financial sector, click here. 

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

Rosewood Wealth Management

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Chesterfield Royal installs State-of-the-Art £1.5m MRI Scanner

A state-of-the-art £1.5m brand new MRI scanner has been installed at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – expecting to help diagnose more than 16,000 patients a year.

An MRI scanner– or Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner – uses magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses to produce three dimensional detailed images of most areas of the body without the use of radiation. It is used to diagnose and monitor treatments in both adults and children.

The Trust has two MRIs on site with this new Siemens Magnetom Sola 1.5 T replacing an 11-year-old machine, which was removed in September.

The installation was carried out by a 50 tonne crane and took seven hours with the cryogenics and superconductor – needed to operate the machinery – being connected to the power supply and configured. The new machine will become operational from 23 December – just in time for Christmas.

The new MRI will have a life span of between 10-15 years and weighs just over 4 tonnes – the equivalent of a hippopotamus or about three cars. It will operate 12.5 hours a day, seven days a week – with scans lasting between 10-60 minutes. All scans are prioritised with urgent cases often receiving the results on the same day.

Kevin Sargen, Medical Director at the Trust commented: “This is great news for the people of Chesterfield and shows that as a Trust we are investing in modern care and facilities – this being alongside the £27m Urgent and Emergency Care Development and the £2m Paediatric Assessment Unit.”

An MRI is typically used to diagnose a variety of pathologies including stroke, tumours, vascular anomalies and many musculo-skeletal problems.

Rebecca Ward, MRICT lead at the Trust, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing in such an advanced piece of equipment into the hospital. The new technology will offer far greater quality and speed over our previous scanner. We know that it will improve our performance and mean we diagnose more people as well as providing a better experience for patients.”

Kevin Sargen, added: “I’d take this opportunity to flag that people need to access the right care by contacting their GP, 111 or pharmacies before coming to our Emergency Department – allowing us to ensure we can prioritise more serious conditions and those requiring access to diagnostics such as this new MRI.”

Chesterfield Royal Hospital 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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Chesterfield organisations strengthen their teams with new appointments

Several Chesterfield businesses and organisations have announced new additions to their teams recently, which builds upon the wealth of existing talent across the town.

DBCP

Derbyshire Building Control Partnership bolstered its ranks recently, taking on two new team members.

Barry Thomas joins DBCP’s team of Building Control Surveyors to assist with the growing demand for building control services for projects in Derby City Centre, while Tracey Mansell has joined the company’s technical support team based in Dunston Innovation Centre.

Barry joins from Thurrock Council where he was a building control surveyor. It was in this role that he completed a degree in Building Control at Wolverhampton University as well as achieving full Chartership status with the industry’s leading bodies CABE and CIOB.

He commented: “It’s a very exciting time for me professionally. Derby is a great city and there is so much happening there with residential and commercial developments of all sizes. It’s great to be involved with key projects through my role with DBCP.”

Barry will be supported in his role by DBCP’s technical support team which has been joined by Tracey. In her new role, Tracey will provide frontline support to builders, architects and property owners, and DBCP’s team of building control surveyors operating throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

Tracey commented: “I have always had a keen interest in architecture, building and design and a dedication to delivering excellent customer service so when this role came up, I seized the opportunity.”

Avant Homes

Chesterfield-based Avant Homes has strengthened the team in its Central region with the appointment of a regional planning manager.

Katy Falls has more than 12 years’ experience in the planning industry and began her career in local authority planning before moving into housebuilding in 2015.

As regional planning manager, Katy will be responsible for moving potential sites through the planning process while establishing strong relationships with local authorities.

Commenting on her appointment, Katy said: “As a planner, my favourite part of the job is successfully obtaining planning permission and seeing developments come to life. It is exciting to play a role in delivering new homes for our customers, and to contribute towards creating communities where people want to live.

“I have always favoured the residential side of planning, so I am looking forward to taking the next step in my career with a company which has such impressive and ambitious growth plans.”

Avant Homes Central currently has nine live developments ranging from Chesterfield to Mansfield with many more due to start as the business continues to implement its growth plans.

Avant Homes Central is part of the Avant Homes Group, one of the leading private developers of residential property in the UK.

Speaking about Katy’s appointment, Avant Homes Central managing director, Chris Coley, said: “With Katy’s experience in planning within local authorities and housebuilding in the Midlands, it’s an exciting time for the business to be welcoming her to the planning team.

“As the planning manager for the region, Katy will be pivotal in working closely with local council’s to secure planning consent for our new sites and drive our Central operation towards expansion success.”

Katy Falls planning manager Avant Homes

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is proud to announce the appointment of a new highly respected and experienced Chief Operating Officer.

Michelle Veitch, who is currently Chief Operating Officer at Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), will take up the post at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in March next year.

Michelle started her career in the NHS via the NHS General Management Graduate Training Scheme and since then has undertaken a number of senior operational roles at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, Nottingham University Hospitals, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

As Chief Operating Officer, Michelle will lead our vision to provide exceptional care by exceptional people by working collaboratively and with compassion across the organisation and outside of it – driving results, performance and quality.

Michelle said: “I’m incredibly excited for the new role and challenge of working at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at RDaSH and having worked here for over two years, I have made some fantastic friends and was proud to work alongside many talented and committed colleagues.

“Chesterfield has an excellent reputation for patient care and quality services, and I look forward to bringing the lessons I have learnt from my career to support Chesterfield and its community. I look forward to working with colleagues across Derbyshire.”

Milestone Financial Planning

Milestone Financial Planning recently announced it had strengthened its team with the appointment of Financial Advisor, Samantha Halifax.

Samantha commented: “I’ve been working in financial services for over 8 years, in a variety of roles, including as a mortgage advisor and private banker. It’s great to be reunited with Michael, Peter, Mark and Jo again and to meet the rest of the team.”

DBCP, Avant Homes, Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Milestone Financial Planning 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’s Central Technology celebrates 20 years of business

A Chesterfield company, which provides IT, telecoms and cyber security support has celebrated 20 successful years of trading in the town.

To celebrate the milestone and outline its vision for the future, Central Technology has announced a major rebrand, new website and a major offer to its customers.

The rebrand has given CT the opportunity to reflect the changing times, the firm’s growth, approach, achievements, and innovations over the past two decades and importantly demonstrate why it is different to other IT providers.

The company’s new website also reflects this and gives visitors more of an insight as to why people love to work for the company, and how its IT solutions are making a big difference to customers.

To celebrate this major milestone, CT is offering 20% off professional services until the end of November. Click here for further details.

Ian Snow, Managing Director of Central Technology said: “Continuing to succeed after 20 years in the IT Support/MSP industry is no mean feat.  Our success and growth is down to our committed and brilliant team who continue to provide the support our customers need.  Being in IT can be pressurised at times, but the culture that we have grown here at CT has created a relaxed, supportive and friendly working environment which we are very proud of and continues to drive the success of the company.

“With over 70 people based in our HQ here in Chesterfield, we are set to continue to grow over the next few years as we continue to expand our services nationwide.  To mark this milestone, we have re-branded to reflect how far we have come, our approach, achievements and innovations over the past two decades and importantly to demonstrate why we are different to other IT providers.”

Speaking on doing business in the town, Ian commented: “Being based in Chesterfield for 20 years is true testament to how much we value the town and are proud of how its developments past, present and future, which have continued to strengthen the economy, encourage more businesses to relocate and importantly drive more talent to the area.

“Importantly, its central location and transport network has allowed us to expand our services nationwide to support even more customers across the country.”

Central Technology 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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Chesterfield’s Custom Solar wins national award for innovative project

Custom Solar has recently been awarded ‘Commercial Solar Project of the Year’ at this year’s Solar and Storage LIVE, for its innovative work at Portsmouth International Ports.

The Solar PV Project, in partnership with Portsmouth City Council involved designing and developing a Solar PV carport canopy system, a 1.2Mw battery storage solution and a 600kWp rooftop solar system.

This project was unique due to challenges faced at foundation and surveying. Operations teams encountered a plague burial site on the planned locations for the carport canopies. After archeologists surveyed the site, the team were instructed to widen the site and ensure that the structures were less than 1m deep. Considering this, the foundations had to be redesigned completely by Customs design engineers to revert to a concrete pad foundation of 3m x 3m per post fixing.

This makes the 2,660 solar panel installation a landmark moment, worthy of its award, as it is one of the first carport canopies to sit at 5 meters high with only 1-meter depth for fixings. Portsmouth International Ports are also the first UK port to have solar canopies, which will contribute to generating 35% of the site’s power.

Custom Solar’s CEO, Gary Sucharewycz, Said: “We are delighted to have won the award for Commercial Solar and Storage project of the year. To have been recognised at the main industry awards for such a prestige project that the team have developed from concept, is a great reward for everyone involved.

“We have worked with a fantastic client in Portsmouth City Council to have successfully delivered the project through many challenges. We see this as a great case study for how solar and storage can be deployed in major operational environments, with solar car port canopy’s set to play a big role in clients generating their own power and assisting their Net zero ambitions to be realised.”

Cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment at Portsmouth City Council, Cllr Kimberly Barrett, said: “It is the council’s priority to support clean growth. I’m delighted that we’ve met our target to begin generating clean energy at the port by the end of 2022, and when fully operational, it will reduce annual emissions by 239 tonnes at this busy site. We’re committed to take positive action to tackle climate change, and this cut in emissions will boost our ambitions to reduce carbon emissions across the city to net-zero by 2030″.

Custom Solar LTD designs, develops, installs, and maintains large scale infrastructure storage and solar systems for clientele including commercial and public sector institutions across the UK. The firm’s track record of tailoring projects for large-scale commercial clients relies on our creativity, our expertise in engineering, and an industry-leading attitude to health & safety.

The company 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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Chesterfield Champions provide support to the local community

Several businesses and organisations in Chesterfield are doing their bit to support the community.

A number of initiatives and fundraising efforts have been launched to support charities and local residents. Find out more in our roundup below:

Chesterfield Football Club launches ‘Feed Chesterfield Together’

Feed Chesterfield Together has been launched by the Community Trust as a joint venture with Chesterfield Locality Children’s Partnership (LCP). The aim of the campaign is to support local food provisions within Chesterfield and the surrounding areas.

Community manager Jayne Bacon outlined the new initiative, explaining: “It’s about helping local families through what’s going to be a difficult winter.

“Feed Chesterfield Together will raise funds to support existing food provisions such as food banks and distribution units to help and support vulnerable families in the town.

“We want to provide our support and help to feed the most vulnerable this winter as it’s going to be a tough time for everyone.

“We’re delighted with how things have gone so far. We began with a bucket collection at the last home match, raising £250 to begin with, which is a great start.”

David Mills, chair of the LCP, is proud that Chesterfield Schools and pupils have come together to support this crucial initiative. He said: “Schools have provided a platform for children and young people to support the most vulnerable families in Chesterfield.

“This demonstrates the tremendous positive contribution children and young people can make to their local community in a very challenging time.”

Jayne spoke about the importance of the Trust being involved with these sorts of projects.

“It’s absolutely vital for us,” she said. ”We are a community facility, and we want to be here for the people of Chesterfield when they most need help and support.

“It’s essential that we provide support to the most vulnerable in Chesterfield and help them in any way we can.”

Jayne also revealed that a warm space in the HUB will be made available for families over the winter. She said: “We will be opening the HUB from 5pm to 7.30pm, Monday to Friday, where the heating will be on and we will provide books, magazines and board games.

“It’s a space for people to stay warm and safe. Some of the Feed Chesterfield Together funds will be allocated to offering food and drinks in the warm HUB via Chester’s Den cafe.

“We want people who use the warm HUB to feel welcome, have fun, stay warm and have food available too. It’s vital for us to provide these opportunities and we really want to provide a safe space for families to make use of.

“It’s important that we open our doors. We are a community facility, and we want to open that up for people to use. We’re hopeful this will help a number of families.”

A GoFundMe page has been set-up for people who would like to make a donation to help the project. To access this, please visit www.gofundme.com and search for ‘Feed Chesterfield Together’.

Paperclip takes part in ‘Wear it Pink’ day

Paperclip has been ‘Wearing it Pink’ to raise monies for the charity, Breast Cancer Now. The ‘official’ day is Friday (21 October).

Each team member made a donation and Paperclip agreed to match the funds raised.  1 in 8 Women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime

Find out more on the ‘Wear it Pink’ website.

Kids Planet Sheepbridge creates accessible indoor pumpkin patch

Autumn is in full swing at the Kids Planet nurseries, and one nursery in particular has gone above and beyond in its pursuit to provide children with an accessible magical space to experience pumpkin picking.

The Kids Planet Sheepbridge team have created their own indoor pumpkin patch for the children to explore, truly bringing the outside in with hay, pumpkins, leaves, wheelbarrows, wellington boots, and more.

The children of all ages are using the pumpkin patch, and will be doing some pumpkin decorating and sensory activities with the inside of the pumpkins, working in line Kids Planet’s values of inspiring awe and wonder.

Lauren Poundall, Acting Nursery Manager at Kids Planet Sheepbridge, said: “We are thrilled with our indoor pumpkin patch. It was important to us to create this in order to give all children the opportunity to experience Pumpkin Picking, as sometimes these types of places are not easily accessible to all.

“We wanted to build an inspiring environment which would interest and spark children’s communication. Our Families have loved the Pumkin Patch and the children come into nursery asking to go and see the hay and the Pumpkins.”

Ashgate Hospice’s ‘Light up a life’ returns

Ashgate Hospice’s new-look Light Up a Life campaign has launched and the charity is giving the community a way to remember their loved ones during what can be a difficult time for many.

Supporters will receive a lantern in the post which can be personalised with a photo of their loved one and a special message in return for a suggested £20 donation.

They will also be sent an electric light to place inside their lantern and an invitation to join a special procession and remembrance ceremony in Chesterfield on the evening of Sunday 4th December.

The poignant 1.2-mile procession, which will start around 5pm, will bring walkers to the hospice at Old Brampton for a special remembrance ceremony in the beautifully lit gardens from 6pm.

The evening will include a touching reflection from local celebrant Jonathan Reeve, gentle live music and refreshments.

Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “Every year, Ashgate Hospice unites our community to remember our loved ones during this difficult time.

“But this year will be especially poignant as we will finally get to remember together, in-person, for the first time since the pandemic.

“We hope our Light Up a Life event will bring some comfort to families like Ali’s at such an emotional time of year.

“I hope you will join us at this very special remembrance event and help raise vital funds to support many more families when they need urgent care and support.”

Find out more about Ashgate Hospice’s Light Up a Life appeal at https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life or by calling 01246 567250.

Chesterfield Football Club, Paperclip, Kids Planet 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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Property & Construction group praises ongoing collaboration across Chesterfield

Members of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group have praised the ongoing collaboration between private and public sector organisations across the town, which is helping to drive forward several landmark regeneration schemes in the area.

The Chesterfield Investment Summit was delivered to packed room at the Casa Hotel on 28th September 2022. At the summit, the town’s property and construction sector and a handful Chesterfield Champions were invited to a lunch event, which enabled further networking and an opportunity to ask questions to Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader, Tricia Gilby and Chief Executive, Huw Bowen.

After the event, Cllr Tricia Gilby commented: “Chesterfield is very resilient and has consistently come out of national crises stronger than it went into them. In the last recession we established Destination Chesterfield, and this has reaped rewards. We also resolved as a council and with all our partners, to come out of the pandemic fighting and as a result a number of developments came out of the ground, including One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

“Chesterfield Brough Council and our partners will now work together with inward investors to ensure the next five years are as good as, if not better, than the last five years.”

Read the full round-up of the event here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2022/10/new-investment-sites-set-to-open-up-across-chesterfield/

The event left attendees impressed with the range of potential investment opportunities opening up across the town, along with optimism for the continuation of strong public/private partnership working across the sector to grow the town’s economy.

Jim Lomas, Director at DLP Planning Ltd:

“It was so pleasing to see such a large turnout for the Investment Summit. There is clearly a great deal of investor interest and enthusiasm from both within and outside the local area. Given our previous and current experience of assisting with the planning process, there is a willingness by the Council to help with business development, housing delivery and infrastructure enhancements, all of which will lead to longer term prosperity and hopefully a greener and more sustainable environment.

“Housing developers in particular are currently delivering the mix and range of property types which are meeting demand and addressing needs. It is clear that many adjoining Local Authority areas outside of Chesterfield are failing to deliver their housing needs and consequently the town is meeting not only its own local needs, but also attracting those from the wider area. The positive consequences for Chesterfield are significant, leading to greater spending power in the local economy, enhanced service provision, regeneration of urban areas and creating a vibrant community, something which can only be welcomed.”

Sarah Wills, Associate Director at Nineteen47 Ltd:

“It was great to be in the room for these discussions. I Really enjoyed hearing about priority projects and collaboration across sectors. It was lovely to hear how integral the Council see the private sector in terms of profile and delivery in the Chesterfield Borough, and we are proud to be a continued part of this conversation.”

Kriston Harvey, Director at Rodgers Leask:

“I think one of the biggest highlights would have to be the fact that following on from previous summits, where it has been great to hear about pipeline projects, we are now able to see these projects coming out of the ground and in some cases complete! Both the Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place are fantastic examples of this and can hopefully be part of the catalyst to drive further regeneration and development.

“Having quality office space locally is clearly a benefit to the town also. This will help to retain businesses within Chesterfield and strengthen the local economy. It was also really good to hear that both the University of Derby and Chesterfield College have big plans – investing in the future generation is critical and it is great to see that there will be even more opportunities for people to stay in Chesterfield and develop new skills.”

Tony Buck, Associate Director at Oasis Studio:

“I always enjoy attending the Chesterfield Investment summit. It was great to see a full house of delegates in attendance, reflective of peoples’ interest in the future of the town. A range of engaging speakers provided a concise summary of all the present and future developments in the pipeline including good conversation around the recently completed office developments at the Waterside and Northern Gateway schemes.  Looking ahead, it appears a number of regeneration projects as part of the Staveley Masterplan are taking shape, adding the plethora of opportunity for local business like ourselves.”

Find out more about ongoing development taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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Value boosting accountants thrive in Chesterfield

A Chesterfield accountancy business has announced remarkable financial growth of more than 300% in the last year.

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax is a small but growing accountancy firm in Chesterfield. Having identified a growing need in the local marketplace for a business-strategy focused accountancy firm, owner Graham Nash launched the firm in 2020, with the initial objective to help turn businesses around and help them recover from the pandemic.

Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, offering strategic business strategy and financial management advice for start-ups and long-established businesses predominantly in the engineering, property and manufacturing sectors.

Owner Graham comments: “In the last 12 months we have experienced a 300% growth financially and doubled the number of clients we work with to over 100. I have recruited a small team within the first 12 months, and this is targeted to expand further in early 2023.”

One example of the combined expertise and efforts at BusinessWise is how they have helped an East Midlands firm more than double its value to over £5m in the two most challenging years in recent economic history.

The Managing Director of the company said: “They took on everything from a detailed review of the financial processes and systems, to implementing new processes to provide accurate figures. They provided detailed monthly reporting, management accounts and forecasting so more informed strategic decisions could be made. They also managed negotiations and discussions with HMRC on our behalf.

“Graham is a highly motivated and professional individual and has become an integral advisor to my business. Without the team at BusinessWise, we would not be in the position we find ourselves today. I can highly recommend his services and he is a real asset to any business in need of support.”

In addition, BusinessWise has actively passed work and referrals valued at £400,000 of business to local suppliers and professional services in the last two years, once again adding value, proposition and strength to the local economy.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your business here in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

BusinessWise Accountancy & Tax 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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