chesterfield news

East Midlands secures Government backing for shared priorities to drive regional growth

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward has formally secured Government support for a set of shared growth priorities aimed at driving long-term economic growth, investment, and opportunity throughout the region.

This agreement marks a major milestone in the East Midland’s ambition to lead the way in delivering the Government’s national growth mission, with our region at the heart of that.

The shared priorities are built around the East Midlands’ strengths and opportunities. Over the next decade, EMCCA and central Government will work together to deliver progress in three key areas.

Innovation

  • Strengthen links between universities, businesses and research centres
  • Help local businesses make better use of new technologies
  • Attract more investment into high-sector growth

Skills

  • Improve access to training and support people to get better jobs
  • Work with universities and local businesses to grow specialist skills
  • Create clearer paths in key industries like green energy and digital

Transport

  • Make local and regional travel faster, more reliable and easier to access
  • Ensure transport needs are reflected in national road and rail plans
  • Explore new and innovative transport solutions for the region

These focus areas will form the foundation of EMCCA’s Local Growth Plan, helping to unlock investment, create high-quality jobs and support inclusive growth across the region.

We welcome the Government’s commitment to aligning national policy and funding with our regional ambitions. The Local Growth Plan will serve as the key vehicle for that collaboration, giving the East Midlands a stronger voice in national decisions and future spending reviews.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I’m in regular contact with the Deputy Prime Minister and her Cabinet colleagues about the huge opportunities for growth in the East Midlands. The East Midlands Local Growth Plan crystallises the shared priorities of the people and businesses of the East Midlands and national government. It will be how we secure the future that this region wants to build for itself – something that I and other leaders can use to secure investment into the future.”

“This is partly about our growth sectors – but also about the enablers of growth, which benefit the entire economy. For us, transport, skills, and innovation are those enablers, and we have been pleased to see that government is backing us on this.”

“There is more work to do yet, but we are pulling together to develop a plan that can be translated, swiftly, into reality.”

The Local Growth Plan will include:

  • A detailed overview of the region’s economic strengths, challenges and opportunities
  • A clear set of growth priorities agreed with Government
  • A pipeline of projects and proposals to attract both public and private investment

Guidance to support the final stages of plan development will be published alongside the upcoming spending review, with publication of the East Midlands Local Growth Plan to follow shortly after.

Invest in Chesterfield

Growth sculture on horns bridge roundabout in chesterfield with crooked spire church in background

Located in the centre of England with excellent transport links, Chesterfield is an ideal location for your business to grow.

Find out more about investing in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Chesterfield Champions announce further successes

A trio of Chesterfield Champion organisations have announced successes, with award wins and new hires revealed.

Our latest roundup features news from Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants and Crush Design. Find out the latest below:

Chesterfield design agency wins international award for rebrand

transform awards

Local design agency Crush won Bronze at the continental Transform Awards Europe 2025, in recognition of their rebrand for German engineering firm, Ziemann Holvrieka.

These awards see hundreds of leading design and branding agencies, from across the entirety of Europe, enter with their latest projects in rebranding and brand development.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder and Creative Director, Crush commented: “Crush hasn’t entered any awards over the years, but this year we felt that it was about time we showed off our work to the world – giving us a chance to compete against some of the biggest and most acclaimed design agencies out there.

“To have even been shortlisted, let alone win Bronze, has meant the world to us as a small, independent Chesterfield-based agency.”

Working with Ziemann Holvrieka, a global leader in the beverage processing industry, the Crush team created a comprehensive, modern corporate rebrand, aimed at positioning the engineering company as forward-thinking and innovative within its ever-changing sector.

Judges at Transform Awards commented: “Beverage brand Ziemann Holvrieka’s outdated brand was not allowing it to reach its audiences effectively. It worked with Crush to create an identity inspired by the shape of the tanks and vessels produced by the company.

“The new look is sleek, professional and confident, allowing Ziemann Holvrieka to communicate its industry expertise and ambitious future aspirations.”

BHP appoints first Head of Employment Taxes in bold service expansion

Kyle Newton

BHP, one of the North’s leading accountancy firms, has appointed Kyle Newton as its first-ever Head of Employment Taxes as part of a strategic expansion of its services, reinforcing its commitment to providing specialist expertise to its clients.

With 17-years experience, working for firms including Deloitte, PWC and BDO, Kyle has supported employers across both the private and public sectors with managing the increasing cost and challenges with rewarding people via payroll, expenses or non-cash benefits.  This work supports businesses with both the recruitment and retention of staff. He has also supported businesses with increasing benefit offerings, reshaping them in a tax efficient manner; or designing and implementing policy and control frameworks to aid compliance.

In his new role, Kyle will work closely with BHP’s wider tax team to provide comprehensive support across all tax areas, delivering specialist advice aligned with the latest HMRC guidance for employee tax.

Commenting on his appointment, Kyle said: “I am excited to be joining BHP and supporting clients at a time when HMRC enforcements are increasing and with employer’s national insurance increasing in April to 15%.  Both create further challenges with businesses managing the trade-off between cost impact, recruitment/retention of key talent and productivity.

“I’m passionate about delivering tailored advice and practical solutions based on the latest HMRC guidance, tax legislation and case law, helping businesses to navigate challenges and continue to thrive. My aim is to reduce business cost and/or reduce administrative time”

Hamish Morrison, Joint CEO at BHP, added: “At BHP, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of expertise, and providing clear advice, which is especially important with significant changes on the horizon such as those around national insurance. Expanding our tax services with Kyle’s appointment strengthens our ability to support businesses, and his wealth of experience will be invaluable to our clients as they look to not only navigate the changing landscape but grow and thrive.”

Banner Jones Celebrates Double Win at Sheffield & District Law Society Awards

Banner Jones Lauren Sara and Katie Sheffield and District Legal Awards

Leading regional law firm Banner Jones has once again been honoured at the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards, securing Employment Law Team of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. The firm also celebrated Lauren Mahon’s Rising Star Award, recognising her exceptional work in family law.

The Employment Law team, led by Katie Ash and Sara Patel, was praised for its expertise in supporting both individuals and businesses. Their work spans settlement agreements, contract drafting, training, complex dismissals, discrimination claims, disciplinaries and grievances, consultancy agreements, restrictive covenant enforcement, and business transfers and disposals.

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law, commented: “Winning this award for the fourth year in a row is an incredible honour. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who are committed to delivering the highest standard of legal support for our clients.”

Lauren Mahon’s Rising Star Award reflects her expertise in family law, including divorce, children matters, civil partnership dissolution, and pre/post-nuptial agreements. She has successfully led several complex cases involving children and financial settlements, earning praise for her commitment to clients and legal excellence.

Alongside these wins, Banner Jones was shortlisted for both the Residential Property Team of the Year and Commercial Property Team of the Year awards, further demonstrating its breadth of expertise.

The awards were announced at the annual Sheffield & District Law Society ceremony on 28th February at the historic Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield.

Banner Jones’ Chief Executive, Simon Wright, commented: “The Sheffield & District Law Society Awards are a fantastic platform to recognise the talent and dedication within the region’s legal sector. Winning two awards this year, alongside being shortlisted in two further categories, is an incredible achievement for our teams.

“These accolades are a testament to the expertise and commitment of our people across multiple disciplines. From our award-winning employment law specialists to our exceptional property teams and rising stars, we are proud to see their hard work acknowledged at such a prestigious event.”

Crush, BHP and Banner Jones support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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‘We must continue celebrating and supporting our cultural assets’

Destination Chestefield Board Member, Ann Fomukong-Boden shares her views on the importance of art for Chesterfield’s communities and regeneration

Do you remember the sculpture being built at Horns Bridge Roundabout? ‘Growth’ has now stood proudly for over a decade, and has become another iconic landmark for our town, complemented by our historic Crooked Spire, which sits beside it on the skyline.

But at the time it was revealed, ‘Growth’ ignited debate. Everyone had an opinion about it. Love it or not, it certainly highlights how the arts shape our community and identity.

To me, the arts make our town unique and vibrant, drawing residents and visitors. I wanted, this month, to highlight some of the initiatives that keep Chesterfield’s creative spirit alive.

Have you experienced the Chesterfield Children’s Festival produced by local charity Junction Arts? Each year, it fills Queen’s Park with music, theatre, dance, and storytelling, immersing families in creativity and creating memories for parents and their little ones.

Meanwhile, Chesterfield Studios’ Rose Theatre undergoes an exciting extension into the adjacent historic Rose Hill Church, providing more space for its 400 students. Could the next West End star come from Chesterfield? Of course they can!

Art connects us to our history and instils pride. While Chesterfield Museum undergoes refurbishment, its ‘Museum on the Move’ initiative brings exhibits directly to communities. The reopening of the museum and theatre in 2026 will offer even more cultural inspiration.

Looking ahead, Derbyshire Makes will celebrate creativity in craft, design, and manufacturing over three years. The first event in March showcased innovative, local makers and traditional crafts.

Beyond its economic and historical value, art can bring people together. It unites communities, encouraging us to learn from one another.

My SocialFuse Festival continues to champion Chesterfield’s incredible purpose-driven and community organisations. Furthermore, West Studios, in partnership with Chesterfield College, has nurtured artistic talent for a decade, cultivating a collaborative hub for designers, artists, and entrepreneurs.

Finally, art enhances our wellbeing. It gets us outside, encourages us to slow down, and allows us to appreciate our surroundings.

The ongoing public art project, Animate Chesterfield creates lasting cultural landmarks. Local artist Lucie Maycock was appointed last year to deliver workshops in the town centre.

Lucie collected stories and memories from members of the community and her new artworks will share and celebrate these stories. By the time you read this, some of the works will have been revealed to the public, and I can’t wait to see how they will add further vibrancy to the town.

Art is everywhere in Chesterfield and its impact is undeniable. But to keep our creative heartbeat strong, we must continue celebrating and supporting our cultural assets.

Immerse yourself in our local culture and keep up with what’s happening across Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Director, Kakou.

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Have your say on Chesterfield’s new Local Plan

Residents and businesses are invited to have their say on the new Chesterfield Borough Local Plan – people can submit feedback online or in writing.

The Local Plan – which is prepared by Chesterfield Borough Council – is a crucial part of the planning process and sets out how many homes and commercial properties will be built, and where.

This aims to ensure that new development is sustainable and supports local economic growth without negatively impacting upon people’s health and wellbeing or the environment.

Changes to national planning policy, including updated housing targets which have been introduced since the current Local Plan was adopted, have meant that a new Local Plan is needed.

The new Local Plan will set out where development should happen over the next fifteen years and identifies how infrastructure including school places, GP surgeries, leisure facilities, roads, and green spaces can be provided to meet the needs of both of existing and new residents.

Residents and businesses can comment on the new Local Plan to highlight their key priorities and influence what will be incorporated into the draft Local Plan.

At this early stage the consultation will not include detailed policies or site allocations.

The new Local Plan consultation is open from Monday 31 March until Monday 12 May.

Two local drop-in sessions will be held where residents can speak to council planning officers about the new Local Plan.

  • The first is on Monday 28 April from 4pm to 7pm at the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley.
  • A second session will be held on Wednesday 30 April from 4pm to 7pm at the Town Hall.

As well as taking part in the consultation on the new Local Plan, stakeholders can also suggest sites for development as part of a new ‘call for sites’ process.

This will ask owners of land or premises to submit suggestions for sites with the potential for new land uses and development. Residents can also submit suggestions, but the land must be available for development.

All submitted sites will be assessed and may be incorporated into the new Local Plan.

Following the consultation all comments will be considered, and a draft Local Plan will be prepared. This will then be subjected to a second public consultation before the council submits it to the Government for independent examination.

Following this process elected members at Chesterfield Borough Council will decide whether to adopt the new Local Plan.

To find out more and share your views about the new Local Plan, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/new-local-plan

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Estate agent expands into new Chesterfield office

An estate agency business has expanded its offering to Chesterfield, following continued growth and success.

Haus Homes Chesterfield offers our community sales and lettings property services. Haus offers services for people to buy, sell, rent, or let homes across Chesterfield and Dronfield.

Haus Homes started in Sheffield in 2017, and after years of moving people between Sheffield and Chesterfield, the company felt the natural next step was to branch out into our town.

The Chesterfield office is based at West Bars, and is led by Ross Bateman. Ross has worked in the Chesterfield property market for the last 10 years, and in Estate Agency since 2012. His team has been curated based on their knowledge and experience, working within the local property market.

Ross commented: “I began working in Chesterfield in 2015 and was drawn to its community spirit and rich history. In 2020, I decided to move here from Dronfield, making Chesterfield not just the center of my professional life but also my home. Chesterfield’s strong sense of community, local culture, and welcoming atmosphere have always impressed me. It’s a town where connections thrive, and supporting one another feels like second nature.”

Speaking on the benefits of living and working in Chesterfield, Ross added: “Chesterfield has many amenities, along with great transport links to major UK cities, and is only a few hours direct train ride to London. Benefiting from being on the doorstep of the Peak District. We look forward to integrating ourselves into the Chesterfield community and meeting more people who live, work, and invest in Chesterfield.”

To browse for sale/to let properties, and learn more about the company’s services, go to: haushomes.co.uk  and follow Haus Homes on Instagram @haushomeschesterfield for regular property and market updates. Alternatively, people are welcome to visit the office at 31 West Bars, Chesterfield, to meet the team and find out how they can help with anything property related.

If you would like to find out more about the great quality of life, access to green space and connectivity Chesterfield offers, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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New advanced manufacturing and life sciences building takes shape at Chesterfield College

The development of a new advanced manufacturing and life sciences teaching centre in Chesterfield is underway, and on-course to open in early 2026.

Chesterfield College recently welcomed employers and dignitaries from across the local community to sign the steels of its new advanced manufacturing and life sciences building development on Infirmary Road.

In partnership with building contractors, Robertson, visitors were treated to a tour of the development, followed by a spectacular lunch served by hospitality and professional cookery students in the college’s on-site restaurant, Taste.

Chesterfield College Principal and CEO, Julie Richards OBE explains: “After a long time in the planning stages I am absolutely delighted to finally share details of the new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences facility we will be offering to our learning community from 2026. Concentrating on the latest industry skills and technology, with a real focus on vitally important green skills, the facility has been curated in consultation with local employers to ensure it produces a skilled workforce to supply local demand for years to come.

Steel signing- Julie Richards

“This build is one of multiple and significant investments we are making to our campus as a result of us successfully securing investment from the government’s Further Education Capital Transformation Fund. Work has commenced on a new commercial zone featuring new hairdressing, beauty therapy and massage facilities which will be open to the public, alongside our already popular training restaurant, Taste.”

Housing cutting edge workshops for students across science, engineering, manufacturing, construction and automotive studies, plans for the building were shared with the visiting party.

To ensure the sustained development of technology and skills available in the new advanced manufacturing and life sciences building, Chesterfield College will be seeking the support of our town’s local business community and will shortly be offering a range of sponsorship packages. If your company would be interested in being the first to find out more, contact: employers@chesterfield.ac.uk

Jonathan Sizer, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, said: “With a focus on innovation, growth and sustainability, the state-of-the-art facility is progressing well with the steel frame now complete. We are ensuring that the project meets Chesterfield College’s mission of inspiring futures and changing lives, and look forward to continuing to work closely with students, staff and stakeholders to create a facility that everyone can be proud of.

“We have extensive experience in delivering high-quality educational projects in the area, so it’s great to bring this expertise to our first project for Chesterfield College.”

Looking for support to enhance skills in your business? Discover more at:

Chesterfield College supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Steel signing March 2025 chesterfield college

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Chesterfield gastropub owner to appear on ITV show, James Martin’s Saturday Morning

A Chesterfield gastropub owner is set to showcase a taste of Derbyshire to the nation this weekend, as he appears alongside James Martin on his Saturday morning cookery show.

Chris Mapp, owner of The Tickled Trout in Barlow, will be cooking for fellow guests on the ITV show in this weekend’s episode (Saturday 5th April).

The Tickled Trout prides itself on creating delicious dishes using locally sourced produce. In 2024, the venue received an AA rosette and was awarded Best Pub Restaurant Chef in the UK, at the Craft Guild Of Chefs Awards ceremony.

Speaking on his TV appearance, Chris said: “I know James and have done demos with him presenting, but to be on the show was surreal, it was so exciting. I must say that the whole crew and James himself were just fantastic and friendly, so they helped calm the nerves a lot. I also travelled down with Alysia, the Yorkshire Forager, she is a close mate of mine, and that was a huge relief she was there to help me through it.”

To get viewers’ taste buds tingling, Chris prepared one of his signature dishes on the show: “I did our already-famous spiced cod scotch egg with curry mayonnaise, my homage to Cornwall when I was there with Paul Ainsworth. James is such a brilliant professional, it’s very easy being with him, he makes it go extremely smoothly. There’s always room for a chuckle as well during filming!”

Chris believes the show will help to put Barlow and Chesterfield on the map as a place to enjoy quality cuisine, adding: “The show has over 1.5m live viewers, plus those watching on catch-up, which is huge. I am sure it will put Barlow and Chesterfield on the map and I am hoping it helps the pub as well. I can envisage already that the lads in the kitchen are going to be making hundreds of scotch eggs!”

The Tickled Trout is currently under refurbishment, but is set to reopen with an exciting new look this April. Keep up to date on the pub’s social media channels.

Find out more about The Tickled Trout here, or visit the restaurant’s website: https://www.tickledtroutbarlow.com/

Looking for more great places to eat and drink in the Chesterfield area? Check out our list of 50 top places to try in our town.

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

Chris Mapp on James Martin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Derbyshire County Cricket Club records surplus for 2024

Derbyshire County Cricket Club has recorded its eleventh surplus in twelve years for the year ending 31 December 2024.

As a result of careful financial management amid the pressure of increased operating costs, the Club can post a pre-tax profit of £11k, while investing a record amount in its cricket budget and continuing to develop spectator facilities at The County Ground.

Chair, Ian Morgan OBE, said: “Amid testing financial times for all, in which costs are only going up, it is with great pride that we can announce a small surplus and a testament to the hard work of everyone associated with the Club.

“To be debt-free and able to safeguard our future in the current climate is a healthy position to be in, however we must continue work hard off-field to ensure we can compete out in the middle. It is becoming increasingly difficult to challenge financially with the larger counties, but we remain committed to investing in our playing budget to give Mickey Arthur and his squad the best chance of success, while maintaining our secure financial position which is highly regarded across the game.”

In 2024, the Club saw sold-out Vitality Blast matches against local rivals Notts Outlaws and Yorkshire, while group ticket sales more than doubled compared to 2023 and the T20 showpiece event at Edgbaston, returning on 14 June this year as Midlands Mania, also proved to be an important revenue-generator.

The Club’s Conference & Events arm of the business continued to grow last year, while The County Ground once again played host to a major music event with the visit of bestselling rap duo D-Block Europe.

Despite the loss of the Club’s Principal Partner on the eve of the season, Derbyshire continues to be well-backed by its sponsors and that revenue stream remains in achieving a year end surplus.

Chief Executive, Ryan Duckett, said: “This result is largely down to our off-field team who continue to drive revenue and efficiency across both cricket and non-cricket events while striving to maintain a high-quality customer experience.

“It continues to be a challenging economic time, but while the details are yet to be confirmed, the recent external investment which has come into the game represents an opportunity to realise our ambitions for our venue and in turn drive commercial growth and further investment on-field.

“Much of that work will come as part of our long-term ground masterplan, but over this winter, the off-field team have again been busy delivering further improvement which includes significant investment in the players’ changing rooms, LED lighting in the Ryley Wealth Elite Performance Centre, ground-wide Wi-Fi, as well as a new 900-seater stand adjacent to the Media Centre.

“On behalf of the Supervisory Board and the off-field team, I would like to thank our sponsors, Members and all visitors to both cricket and non-cricket events for their continued support.”

The Club’s Annual Report and Accounts were approved by Members at the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 26 March at The County Ground. Derbyshire will be back in action at Queen’s Park later this year for the BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket. Find out more about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/the-chesterfield-festival-of-cricket/

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

(Image credit: Jake Smith)
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New Chair of Destination Chesterfield announced at town’s largest business conference

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director of The Devonshire Group, has been officially announced as the new Chair of Destination Chesterfield.

Business leaders and key stakeholders from across the town were updated on Andrew’s election to the role at Celebrate Chesterfield 2025.

Held at the Winding Wheel Theatre, the annual conference brought together the local business community to outline the future of Destination Chesterfield’s promotion of the town.

Andrew will lead the strategic direction of the Destination Chesterfield partnership alongside the Destination Chesterfield board and team, guiding the initiative as it continues to raise the profile of the town as a thriving place to live, work, visit and invest.

His appointment to this voluntary position marks a new chapter in the mission to drive investment, support local businesses, and showcase Chesterfield’s unique identity. The post was previously held for more than a decade by Peter Swallow, Managing Director of Bolsterstone PLC.

Speaking to delegates for the first time as Chair, Andrew expressed his enthusiasm for the role: “I am delighted to step into the role as Chair of Destination Chesterfield, and I’m excited to bring my passion for the local area to continue our progress.

“I’m looking forward to working with partners to highlight the new East Midlands Investment Zone, which will bring highly skilled jobs in green industries and advanced manufacturing to the Staveley area.

“We are also evolving into a town to experience – through the revitalisation of our high streets in Chesterfield and Staveley, an extension to Chesterfield Canal, and the ongoing development of the groundbreaking visitor attraction, PEAK Gateway Resort.

“We continue to build quality housing for residents in Chesterfield, including increasing the number of homes around our town centre. My priority, and that of the Destination Chesterfield partnership, is to ensure this continued regeneration benefits residents and bolsters our communities, as we continue to promote Chesterfield as a prime location to live, work, visit and invest.”

For 15 years, Destination Chesterfield has played a crucial role in supporting local economic growth and promoting Chesterfield as a contemporary destination.

During his address at Celebrate Chesterfield 2025, Andrew provided an overview of the new Destination Chesterfield plan, which will guide the promotion of Chesterfield until April 2027. This will concentrate on four key areas of activity:

  • A Place to Call Home – Showcasing Chesterfield as an attractive place to live whilst also encouraging further residential development across the borough.
  • Made in Chesterfield – Promoting manufacturing, engineering, and green industries to attract investment and drive growth, while inspiring future generations to pursue rewarding careers in these thriving sectors.
  • Experience Chesterfield – Showcasing the town’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural offerings to attract new businesses to the town centre and high streets, encourage people to spend leisure time locally, and support the visitor economy, while positioning Chesterfield as a gateway to the Peak District National Park.
  • Telling the Chesterfield Story – Strengthening Chesterfield’s brand and reputation through effective storytelling and working alongside the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions to raise the profile of Chesterfield as a contemporary destination. In addition, supporting businesses to grow by signposting support and encouraging innovation.

Celebrate Chesterfield 2025 was sponsored by DogLand, a business which has seen tremendous success and growth since launching in 2017.

At the event, the business’ founder Dawn Brown shared her inspiring story, crediting Chesterfield’s location and vibrant community for her success: “Since setting up my business, the community has embraced my vision, and the continued support has been invaluable. Being based here has allowed our business to grow and flourish, and thanks to this, we now have plans to expand the DogLand ethos to new areas.

“Chesterfield has a strong, collaborative business network that supports growth and innovation, which is why we are proud to support Destination Chesterfield’s successful promotion of the town.”

The event also hosted the annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business Expo, held in partnership with East Midlands Chamber. The expo allows organisations to showcase their products and services, discuss collaborations and create connections across the business community.

For more information on Celebrate Chesterfield 2025, and to view a copy of the Chesterfield Annual Review, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/celebrate/

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New homeopathy clinic opens in Chesterfield

Chesterfield has welcomed a new addition to its health and well-being scene, providing an alternative approach to health and wellness.

Derbyshire Homeopath has been launched by Amanda Townend, who is passionate about offering individuals a natural and holistic route to healing.

Throughout March, she will be running a Saturday Walk-in Clinic, designed to provide accessible, one-off appointments for those seeking to explore homeopathy as a solution to their health concerns. This service is ideal for individuals who feel that conventional medicine does not fully address the root causes of their conditions.

Amanda explains: “The NHS provides excellent diagnostic and surgical services, but there is often a gap in aftercare and recovery support. Many people find that pharmaceutical prescriptions only manage symptoms rather than addressing the underlying issues. My clinic offers an alternative, focusing on helping the body to heal itself.”

In addition to the walk-in clinic, Derbyshire Homeopath offers an initial care package, consisting of three appointments where clients can expect to see improvements in their health and overall well-being. These sessions can take place via Zoom or in the client’s home for those unable to travel.

Amanda’s journey into homeopathy began through personal experience: “I started studying homeopathy after using it to support my own family’s health. The turning point came when my husband, who suffered from severe back pain due to an old injury, was advised by doctors that he would need spinal fusion surgery. Instead, after taking a strong and repeated dose of Arnica, his condition improved dramatically, and he no longer experiences debilitating attacks.”

This transformative experience led Amanda to undertake a four-year course in homeopathy, equipping her with the expertise to help others seeking alternative solutions to chronic conditions.

Amanda sees Chesterfield as the perfect location for her business: “Chesterfield is a thriving town with a strong vision for the future. Its proximity to the Peak District and excellent transport links, including access to the M1, make it an ideal place to live and work, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.”

Her clinic is based at the Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic (TLC) at Ashgate Manor, a well-known location that houses a variety of wellness-focused businesses. The welcoming environment aligns perfectly with Amanda’s mission to support people in their healing journeys.

Vision Derbyshire, a Derbyshire County Council scheme which supports start-up companies, has played a crucial role in helping Amanda launch her business: “They have provided invaluable support, from funding a professional photo shoot to supplying essential computer software. Their assistance has truly put my business on the map.”

Sian Spencer Bray, Clinical Director & Lead Psychotherapist at TLC expressed her enthusiasm about Derbyshire Homeopath joining the centre: “We are delighted to welcome Amanda to TLC. We strive to offer a safe and supportive space for individuals looking to improve their health, both physically and mentally. Her expertise in homeopathy aligns perfectly with our mission of providing holistic well-being solutions for the community.”

As a Chesterfield Champion, Sian also highlighted the importance of supporting like-minded businesses: “At TLC, we uphold the highest standards, ensuring that every service we offer aligns with our commitment to evidence-based approaches and genuine community well-being. By partnering with businesses that share our values, like Derbyshire Homeopath, we create a trusted network that benefits the entire Chesterfield community.”

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.derbyshirehomeopath.co.uk or stop by the TLC at Ashgate Manor to learn more about the services available.

Are you looking to launch your business in Chesterfield? Find out more about the support available in our area here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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SDE Group collaborates with John Pye Auctions on smart storage project

Chesterfield’s SDE Group has revealed a successful collaboration with John Pye Auctions to enhance their operational efficiency and safety through the implementation of smart storage solutions.

The project involved a comprehensive assessment of existing equipment and procedures, followed by the design and installation of tailored storage systems. The project not only optimised space utilisation but also streamlined workflows, leading to improved productivity and adherence to safety protocols.

The successful transformation within a 12-month period was a testament to the collaborative efforts between SDE Group and John Pye’s team.

Project Consultant, Elliot Watson explained: “When John Pye Chesterfield first approached SDE for a small quantity of shelving in one of their salesrooms, it was clear to see during our first visit that the site had grown that quickly in such a short space of time, what made sense from an operational perspective (and what was required from a H&S point-of-view) were made secondary priorities to coping with the huge volume of sales the business was experiencing.

“That is why it is even more rewarding to see the site completely transformed within 12 months, after the hours put into reviewing all of their existing equipment and operational procedures, several designs and then re-designs, and then finally getting the project to site prior to their peak sales period.

“Special thanks go to Josh, Steve, John, and the rest of the Chesterfield team for their hard work and cooperation throughout the process.

“Witnessing a transformative project like this is always rewarding — even more so when it supports a local business and strengthens their service to the wider community.”

Chesterfield is home to a vibrant community of businesses which thrive through collaboration. Find out more about locating your business here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

SDE Group 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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