chesterfield news

Conference urges business growth and collaboration to boost Chesterfield’s economy

Businesses in Chesterfield are being encouraged to explore ways in which they can grow, as part of ambitious plans to improve the town’s economy and create higher-value jobs for residents.

Speakers at Destination Chesterfield’s annual Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference highlighted ways in which local businesses can harness support to innovate and create new jobs.

They also identified that if all organisations in the town currently categorised as ‘low growth’ experienced just a 1% uplift, it would significantly boost the local economy.

Helping businesses to grow and ensuring people have the right skills are key objectives of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Growth Strategy (2023-2027). To support this, delegates at Celebrate Chesterfield heard from businesses which are innovating and overcoming challenges to boost growth.

Mike Isherwood, Managing Director of event headline sponsor, System Q explained how his business has evolved and adapted to become a supplier to major organisations, including the Ministry of Defence: “We are committed to providing our customers with the most innovative and advanced technology, ensuring their safety and security at all times.

“Our company is proud to be a part of the thriving high-tech community in Chesterfield, a town known for its innovation and progress. Despite the common belief that the best firms and talent are found in larger cities, this quaint town is home to a wealth of undiscovered talent.”

Ash Young, Managing Director of CarMats.co.uk recently relocated his business to the town.

He said: “If we hadn’t done things differently, we wouldn’t have seen the growth that we have. When we set up the business we were aiming for 100 orders per day, but because we changed the way we marketed the products, we are now shipping around 150,000 orders per year and we’re going to turn over about £7.5m this year.

“We’ve managed to hire a really skilled team in Chesterfield and the transport links mean it’s easy for us to get out to couriers easily.”

Amy Revell, of We Are Spaces Ltd recently expanded her business into larger office space at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, having initially moved into the development last year.

She said: “We currently turn over around £7m and have 15 employees, and we are rapidly growing. Chesterfield has played a big part in our growth – we have a lovely office space here which we managed to grow from one of the smaller suites into a larger one. We’ve managed to recruit really good people in the area, and we are strategically placed really well. Being so central has allowed us to grow all of our core services nationally.”

At the conference, Destination Chesterfield also launched its ambitious new strategy and plan, which outlines the partnership’s aims to attract further inward investment, support businesses to grow and encourage more people to visit the town.

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, commented: “This plan reflects our town’s ambition, and where we collectively see the biggest growth opportunities. Recent research has identified 26% of revenues from tourism, inward investment and talent growth are shaped by people’s perception of a town or city.  Meaning our collective work to promote the town are vital to achieving the towns growth aspirations.

Celebrate Chesterfield business innovation panel, Mike Isherwood, Cllr Tricia Gilby, Adam Doyle

“Since 2010, Destination Chesterfield has worked alongside Chesterfield Borough Council and Chesterfield Champions to promote the area as a contemporary destination to invest, work, live and visit, and our public-private partnership continues to play a central role in the town’s success. We must continue working together to raise the profile of Chesterfield to realise its significant potential.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council added: “Celebrate is always a fantastic event that showcases the very best that our borough has to offer. It was great to be able to meet with businesses to talk about how the council can support them to grow, but also to hear from them directly and discover what else we can do to drive growth and investment.

“I was also pleased to see a strong reception the new Destination Chesterfield strategy and plan – this aligns closely with our own growth strategy and together we can help grow our local economy, attract more investment and deliver benefits for both businesses and our residents.”

The 2024 Celebrate Chesterfield Business Conference was also sponsored by Markham Vale and the University of Derby. The event also saw almost 40 businesses exhibiting across the East Midlands Chamber Business Support Zone and the Invest in Chesterfield Zone.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , , ,

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre welcomes chartered surveyors to grade A office space

A multi-disciplinary firm of chartered surveyors specialising in property auctions, surveys and agency has announced a move to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

PriceLinsey boasts a combined 43 years of experience, with each team member having worn many hats in the property industry across Chesterfield, Sheffield, and also Manchester.

The three directors had known one another for almost a decade before deciding to venture out on their own and join forces, with Richard and Marcus going on to meet Jodie when they worked alongside each other at another local property firm. Living and working in the town, they are proud to represent Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

Marcus Linsey, Director at the company commented: “Moving into the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre was a really good move for our business. The new grade A office accommodation with its easy-in easy-out terms suites our every growing business and is superbly positioned within the heart of the town for us to connect with other solicitors and estate agents that we work alongside. The modern look and feel of the building also reflects our brand image.”

PriceLinsey NGEC

The company said that with all three directors living and working in the town, it made sense to make Chesterfield PriceLinsey’s new home.

Marcus continues: “The people and business are friendly and supportive and there are real opportunities for growth especially where business work together. Chesterfield is the perfect place to live and work being strategically located close to the M1 motorway, mainline railway station yet also within touching distance of the peak district for when you need to get away from it all! Personally, we love Chesterfield markets and the events that are help there like Peddler Market. The high street is changing and events like these help draw people into the town.”

“We work closely along side other local business including valuation work for solicitors and survey work for estate agents, and have been humbled by the positive response we have received since establishing. When we were expanding and looking for more office space, the borough council pulled out all the stops to allow us to move into the Enterprise Centre in the timescales we needed- which was short notice!”

PriceLinsey is now hoping to capitalise on further growth in the town following its recent move, with Marcus adding: “We hope the business will continue to grow by increasing the number of properties sold at auction and are keen to work alongside local authorities in the region to act on their behalf.

“On the other side of the business, we are carrying out an ever increasing amount of survey and valuation work. As this builds up we hope to take on an apprentice to help with this work. Who knows- we may soon need a bigger office in the NGEC!”

For more information on the wide range of quality office spaces available for businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Pricelinsey NGEC 2

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

Staveley Town Deal is a ‘Once in a generation opportunity’

Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, Ivan Fomin has provided an extensive update on the progress of several projects taking place as part of the £25m town deal, which will make a major impact on the future prosperity of the town for its residents and communities.

Strong progress is being made on the transformation of Staveley, with several projects being brought forward thanks to the £25m Town Deal Fund.

In January 2020 we held the first Staveley Town Deal Board and I had the honour of being elected as Chair of that Board responsible for the governance and oversight of the bidding process and subsequent delivery of the Towns Fund money allocated to us. We have already achieved plenty of progress over the last few years, and I’m excited by what is to come in 2024.

We were lucky enough to be granted in excess of the initial £25m as we had put forward 11 strong cases for projects within the greater Staveley area. We have delivered five ‘accelerator’ projects including juniors pitch drainage at Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club (SWMFC), town centre CCTV enhancement, improvements to King George V Park, design and enabling works for the DRIIVe project and the new performance canopy at Springwell Community College.

For the projects themselves, we have seen good progress but sometimes frustratingly they are hampered by uncontrollable events such as land acquisition and of course cost inflation.

Hartington Industrial Park has particularly suffered from the delay in land release by third parties, but this has moved forward, such that access to the site will be secured as will the route of the new mains incoming power supply.

hartington industrial park

Chesterfield Canal Trust continues to be a shining example of project management and is well on the way to commencing work on site. You may also have seen in the media that they have secured a large donation of the clay needed to construct the puddle bank on the eastern side of the proposed new route. The re-routing of utility services is bringing some challenges, but they are confident these can be resolved. A contractor has also been secured for a new bridge over the canal for cyclists and pedestrians, linking the Trans Pennine Trail and the Arkwright Trail.

TPT Bridge Chesterfield canal artist impression

Staveley Waterside which covers the onward development of the canal basin has passed planning approval. The development will bring flexible space for small businesses, alongside generating opportunities for retail and food & beverage outlets.

staveley waterside

The new DRIIVe rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill is a scheme of national significance and has now received planning permission. This unique project will provide workshop and classroom space to support specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses – bolstering Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector.

Driive artists impression

The Barrow Hill Memorial Hall has such historical importance it is wonderful to see the plans for resurrecting this building. The project is managed by a community trust, and they have employed a new project manager to oversee the next stages of the renovation. Once complete the new facility will provide a bar and café, health facilities, function room, and sports hall. It will provide a much-needed centre for the community to come together.

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall Image

Staying in Barrow Hill you may recall the announcement in October that the Barrow Hill line would be given the go ahead. It is important to note that this is subject to the scheme going through a government business case review, but we are pleased that there is every chance this line and the associated railway station will now come forward. As a Board we have allocated funding to enhance the new station, but meanwhile are pressing on with the delivery of the surrounding works such as pedestrian crossings, lighting, Wi-Fi and bus information systems. We await the outcome of the business case reviews.

A major concern of the Board is how the people of Staveley are going to access the new jobs which are being created. Even despite the success of the industrial investment in Markham Vale there is still no suitable bus service from Staveley. The Wheels to Work scheme proposes to help with this by introducing a number of travel related options to enhance mobility, and the first e-bikes and e-mopeds have now been made available to users.

markham vale

The Construction Skills Hub is an exciting initiative where the training will take place alongside a live building site. This has been designed to be a mobile scheme, and the first site has been established at the new Devonshire Group development at Mastin Moor. It is hoped in future that the installation will then be moved to new sites along the proposed relief route from Staveley to Chesterfield.

Staveley Miners Welfare Football Club continue to show massive commitment to the Staveley Town Deal, having obtained planning permission for their new training academy for BTEC sports skills development. Construction tenders came in higher than expected and this has led to a revised plan to refurbish an existing building to welcome the first cohort of students in addition to new buildings.

Artist impression of Staveley Miners Welfare Academy

Image supplied by Staveley Miners Welfare F.C. – Designed by Verteks Associates Ltd

These inflationary pressures in the construction sector have also influenced what will be possible to deliver on the Staveley 21 – a significant regeneration and revitalisation project in Staveley town centre. It is based around the masterplan developed in 2021 and includes improvements to the marketplace, a new lighting scheme, additional tree planting, a better connections to the canal and enhancement to the public realm. Shop front grants are available to local retailers to make exterior improvements to their business premises.

One casualty in 2023 was the loss of the Staveley Hall project. This project was to add a function room extension to the Grade 2 listed hall, but in the end it became apparent that it was unlikely to be able to satisfy planning conditions, and the project was reluctantly dropped. This meant that the funding allocated to that project was available to be used by other existing projects which could demonstrate the additional benefits from having the extra funding.

As a Board we were keen not to just put all the allocation into the Staveley 21 town centre scheme (which could no doubt have used all the £25 million of funding!), but rather to see what additional benefits could be found from the other nine projects too. We continue to work with all projects to ensure we can maximise the benefits and develop the programme on that basis.

One of the early considerations we had as a Board was the importance of communication with the residents and businesses in Staveley as to the progress of the programme, and we invited our Board member, Head Teacher from Springwell Community College, to chair a sub-group responsible for communication and engagement. While it is clear you can never have enough information being circulated, the group has been successful in liaising with local groups and attending events.

This has also allowed us to work closely with school pupils in the area to explain to them the work that is being done on the various projects, and to try to give them some vision for their future in Staveley.

In addition to the Government’s agenda for the Town Deal Board, we were also keen to find additional ways in which we could have a positive influence and add long term value to the work that was being done in the area. Our Board member, local GP and Divisional director from the Royal Primary Care Trust was able to help us understand the health metrics locally and also raised the issue of lack of cooking skills being taught to young people these days in schools.

The Town Deal Programme Manager, supported by Chesterfield College, have pushed forward with an initiative called Staveley To Eat Well (STEW), whereby a number of local school pupils spend time with catering students at the college to learn how to produce some simple but healthy meals.

Just before Christmas last year, I was invited to visit Staveley Junior School to have a look at the Christmas cards and decorations they had made. It was an opportunity for me to discuss with the Head Teacher the challenges the school faces, and we hope to be able to connect the school to local businesses who can help not only with funding, but also on developing the links with the world of work and careers.

We have a busy year of delivery ahead of us and I have encouraged projects to display hoardings and sign boards so that the residents can see more detail of what is going on at the various sites around the area. I hope that by this time next year we are seeing some real changes to the look of the wider town’s built environment and amenities.
This Town Deal is a once in a generation opportunity for us all, and I hope you are encouraged by the hard work and commitment that is going into delivering these projects.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board

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

More than 160 new energy-efficient homes to be built in Bolsover

Chesterfield housebuilder, Woodall Homes has secured a resolution to grant permission at Bolsover District’s Planning Committee this week for one of the firm’s biggest developments to date.

The development lies on the countryside edge of Bolsover and will comprise 161 energy-efficient properties, with a mixture of one to five-bedroom homes, including bungalows.

Accessed by a new tree-lined link road connecting Shuttlewood Road and Oxcroft Lane, the scheme will feature broad swathes of attractive, accessible open spaces, with multifunctional green infrastructure, landscape corridors, wildlife-friendly habitats and a local play area for community use, along with pedestrian and cycle connections linking to Bolsover’s amenities.

Oxcroft View bolsover

Darren Abbott, Planning Director at Woodall Homes said: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured a successful resolution to grant full planning permission for our new site in Bolsover. This will be one of our largest developments and will make a significant contribution to achieving our targeted growth as a business in the coming years. It will cater for a wide range of needs within the area, providing accommodation perfect for couples, families and buyers who are ready to downsize.”

Committed to their sustainability pledge, Woodall Homes strives to deliver excellent developments which nurture safe and inviting communities and their previous work within the area at Scarsdale Green is an outstanding example of how these communities are built.

For more information about Woodall Homes and their work within Derbyshire, visit: https://woodallhomes.co.uk/

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield has so much to offer. Find out more about the wide range of benefits associated with living here for you and your family here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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

Oxcroft View 15

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Hotpod Yoga studio set to open at Chesterfield’s Elder Way

Hotpod Yoga will be the first tenant to locate to the new units created in the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of the new Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield franchise, has signed a 10-year lease on unit 7, a 1,420 sq ft unit located at the top of Elder Way near Saltergate.

He said: “I love the location. It is prominently located in the town centre and offers convenient parking for customers. It is a beautiful building, full of history and fresh energy. I am very much looking forward to opening the studio.”

Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield will open to the public on Thursday 18 April, with the first class taking place at 12.30pm.

Part of the national Hotpod Yoga chain, the new studio on Elder Way will offer an immersive yoga experience, using a pod as a safe environment for people to practice yoga in 37-degree heat while maximising the senses through relaxing sounds and calming scents.

The new Hotpod Yoga unit is one of seven street level units and large basement that have been created by regeneration specialist Jomast Developments. Additionally, there is a 92-bed Premier Inn hotel which has been successfully trading on the upper two floors of the building since 2019.

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director welcomed Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield to Elder Way saying: “The addition of Hotpod Yoga to Elder Way brings forward the health and wellbeing element we envisaged for the building when we redeveloped it. Elder Way offers an ideal location for businesses. Not only is it an iconic building, but it is centrally located and benefits from excellent amenities and footfall from surrounding businesses, all of which have been further boosted by Chesterfield Borough Council’s investment in the town centre.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is fantastic to be able to welcome a new business to the town centre and I am delighted that they have chosen to be based on Elder Way. Following on from the redevelopment of the old Co-op department store we invested in improving the paving and area from Elder Way along Packers Row as part of our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project.

“This investment has helped create a more attractive area and we will begin work on the wider project in the marketplace later this year. Using external funding to help improve our town centre is about creating an environment where businesses and visitors want to be, which will help grow our local economy.

“I wish Chris all the best with his new business venture, and I look forward to welcoming more businesses to Elder Way in the future.”

Work is now underway to install the heated pod, showers, toilets, changing and reception areas ahead of the opening next month.

Chris commented: “The unit is a real blank canvas which is making for a straightforward fit out.”

As a former NHS mental health nurse, Chris, who is also a qualified yoga teacher, aims to offer both health and wellbeing benefits through the yoga classes which will be delivered by fully qualified instructors. Classes, which are suitable for all levels, will run seven days a week from 6.30am.

The opening of the new yoga studio at Elder Way brings the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. Previously owned by another franchisee, and located at Chesterfield FC, the studio was forced to close amid the Covid crisis.

Chris commented: “I am delighted to bring the Hotpod Yoga brand back to Chesterfield. There was demand for it then and I believe demand has increased further as people recognise the mental health benefits of hot yoga as the heat enables the mind to become more focussed.”

Launched in 2013, Hotpod Yoga is now Europe’s largest yoga business with around 70 locations, including Sheffield and Derby.

Six units now remain available at Elder Way with joint agents, WSB Property and FHP, reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk

To book a class at Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, visit hotpodyoga.com/studios/chesterfield/

Chris Wilkinson Hotpod Yoga Elder Way

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Work completed on luxury Chesterfield town centre apartments

The creation of 55 high-spec apartments in a prominent Chesterfield town centre building has been completed less than a year after work began.

The project has come in bang on schedule, and a launch date for the new apartments above shops in Burlington Street is taking place today (Friday, March 15).

Nottingham-based developer ALB Group has achieved a “first” for the company in its conversion of the town centre space.

As part of the redevelopment, an extra floor has been added at the top of the building, providing an additional 13 apartments, many of which have the benefit of a balcony.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said he was delighted with the end result.

“The result is unbelievable,” he said. “Not only has it made the existing building look so much more appealing and modern, but it has also created some apartments with fabulous outside space.

“The upper two floors of the building have now been remodelled while the ground floor remains in use for commercial retailers.”

Tenants currently occupying the commercial space on the ground floor include H Samuel, Betfred, and Max Speilman.

Arran said: “It’s the first time we have added an extra storey onto a block, and it’s turned out fantastically – we are very pleased with the results.”

The development has taken just 51 weeks from work starting until finish.

“We are extremely happy with how this redevelopment has turned out,” said Arran. “It has transformed the high street, breathing new life in this part of the town, while also providing high specification ‘must have’ apartments for the people of Chesterfield.”

ALB is committed to championing improvements in town and city centres across the country. The firm has made recent property purchases in Norwich, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Nottingham, Peterborough, Ipswich, Huddersfield and Birkenhead, where footfall has since seen significant increases.

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, our town has so much to offer. Find out more about living in Chesterfield here. 

Chesterfield apartments burlington street external

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Inspirational work continues in Chesterfield’s business community

Inspirational work continues to take place amongst Chesterfield’s businesses to support good causes and community initiatives in the town.

Our latest roundup of feel-good stories includes a celebration of inspirational women in the town, support for a cheerleading group to fulfill their ambitions of taking part in a world championships, a heartfelt charity challenge taking place at the upcoming Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k race, and young Chesterfield footballers being given the skills to save lives.

Read more in our latest roundup from our Chesterfield Champions below:

Chesterfield Football Club plays host to inspirational Women’s Day event

Banner Jones International Women's Day event

More than 60 businesswomen from across South Sheffield and Derbyshire came together last week at Chesterfield Football Club to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.

The inspirational event was hosted by MMB Magazine and sponsored by regional law firm Banner Jones, with the proceedings led by event host Natalie Jackson who is a former lawyer and Director at See Sporty Be Sporty.

Natalie is actively encouraging girls to participate in sports, creating partnerships helping businesses to support local young people working with the Outward Bound Trust.

The first speaker at the event, which took place on February 29th, was World Thai Boxing Champion and UK Boxing Champion Rachael Mackenzie who shared her journey to success. And what a journey it was!

The inspirational evening consisted of networking opportunities, and a chance to celebrate the achievements of women in the local community. Half of the funds raised were also donated to support Chesterfield FC Women, supporting their journey in securing funds for pitch hire, referees, kit, training, and other essential needs.

A number of other inspirational women were invited to share their experiences, including top female football referee Georgia Ball, founder of Colleague Box Natalie Bamford, the first female shareholding management board member of Banner Jones, Katie Ash, and Business Expansion and Inward Investment Specialist Nicolle Ndiweni.

Katie Ash, panel speaker and event sponsor commented: “We were delighted to sponsor this event focussed on celebrating the achievements of women and inspiring the next generation of women in business.

“Women have been forcing change and we are seeing the fruits of their labour but there is still a way to go. This event got us thinking about inclusivity, what it means and how we can put it at the centre of everything we do. It was also great to see such a big turnout for the event and I am looking forward to supporting the coming events this year to build stronger relationships within our local community of women in business”.

Andrea Parkinson, Chesterfield FC Women 1st Team Manager, also attended the event. They held a very successful raffle with funds raised going towards securing referees for the remaining matches of the season.

As this event has been so popular and there is a clear demand for more Women’s networking in Chesterfield, Abbie at MMB Magazine is planning future events.

The first MMB Private Lunch Club Derbyshire will be held in Chesterfield town centre on the 14th May 2024, 12pm-2pm in Café No10’s new private dining area upstairs. Look out for more information but email abbie@mmbmagazine.co.uk if you are interested in attending.

DBCP help make Trailblazer Allstars’ World Cheerleading Championship dreams a reality

Trailblazer Allstars with DBCP banner

A cheerleading squad is off to the US in April to compete in the Allstar World Cheerleading Championships – the Olympics of the cheerleading world – thanks to a bit of help from DBCP, the Chesterfield-based building control services provider.

DBCP has made a generous £1000 donation to the Trailblazer Allstars to help towards their trip of a lifetime to Orlando in Florida where the championships are taking place.

The donation will be used alongside additional fundraising by the team, to purchase training kit, uniforms, flights and accommodation, entry fees and performance music at the international competition.

DBCP has a special connection to The Trailblazer Allstars; a member of its technical team is the squad’s ‘flyer’. By day, Jade Sheppard can be found processing building control applications, but in the evening and at weekends, she is the athlete who is lifted and thrown into the air during a stunt or appears at the top of a pyramid during performances.

In addition to DBCP’s donation, the squad have fundraised tirelessly for the trip over the last 12 months, after learning they had been invited to compete in the Cheerleading World Championships which are held every year.

Jade said: “We’re so grateful to DBCP and everyone else who has donated to help get us to the Cheerleading Worlds. It has made a huge difference. As a team we don’t receive any funding to help us get there so heavily rely on fundraising. All donations are helping make our dreams to showcase our skills on a huge stage a reality.”

Currently ninth best in the world, the Trailblazer Allstars are one of only three teams from the UK competing in the 2024 world championship held at Disney World. Jade and 19 of her fellow cheerleaders, together with coaches and helpers, will head to the US at the end of April where they will spend a week training before competing over two days.

David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager said: “We are all very proud of Jade and her team’s achievements and are delighted to support them in getting to the Cheerleading Worlds. Jade’s full of energy in the office at DBCP! If the team take this energy to the competition, we have no doubt that they will be bringing back a medal for the U.K. in April.”

At the Cheerleading World Championships, the Trailblazer Allstars will compete in the highest division (Level 7). This is the third time they’ve competed in Florida. During the 2022 competition they finished ninth out of more than 20 teams. This year the team is hoping to hit a new high following the creation of a non-tumble category.

The new category is designed specifically for teams that have limited training facilities and are unable to incorporate floor gymnastic displays in their routines. Jade added: “With the introduction of the non-tumble category, Trailblazer Allstars have a real chance against the US teams at the World Championship.”

If you would like to donate to the Trailblazer Allstars’ cheerleading world championships dream, you can do so via their JustGiving page.

‘Wonderful’ care volunteer’s friend received at Ashgate Hospice inspires her to take on Chesterfield 10K

Helen Hadley Ashgate Hospice running the Chestefield 10k

The close friend of a woman who received “wonderful” Ashgate Hospice care is running the Chesterfield 10K in her memory.

Helen Hadley started volunteering at the hospice’s reception in Old Brampton, Chesterfield, after her friend Margaret Umney died in March last year, aged just 44.

She will be one of hundreds of runners taking to the streets on Sunday 24 March for the event, sponsored by the Redbrik Foundation.

Helen, 45, from New Whittington, hopes to raise as much as she can for the charity, which cared for Margaret at home, allowing her to fulfil her wish of dying at home with her family by her side.

The route will start and finish in Queen’s Park and will see runners embark on a journey around the heart of Chesterfield, heading past landmarks including the town’s famous Crooked Spire.

Runners of all abilities – as well as volunteers – are being urged to sign up for the event.

Helen said: “When I ran the Chesterfield 10K a couple of years ago, Margaret was one of my biggest supporters; she was always sending me positive messages.

“It only seemed fitting to run the event this year in her memory. The hospice did such a wonderful job of caring for Margaret; the team at Ashgate ensured she was able to be at home with her husband Dan, and children Ellie, Shannon and Lewis.

“Being able to raise funds towards the charity’s care is definitely a big added bonus for me.”

Ashgate Hospice has once again been announced as one of the Chesterfield 10K’s charity partners, and participants are being encouraged to sign up and fundraise to help fund the charity’s vital end of life services.

Taking part will help people like Margaret, from New Whittington, who was diagnosed with breast cancer five years before she died.

She spent years undergoing intense treatment until she was told nothing more could be done.

Helen added: “The hospice is a place that so many of us are all too familiar with and has played a part in ours or someone that we know’s life.

“Volunteering there, I get to witness first hand, the amazing work that the team do. They receive less than 40% of their funding from the government, so every single pound makes an enormous difference.”

Other participants include David Hudson, from Wingerworth, who will have his parents, Brian and Elizabeth, on his mind whilst taking on the event, after they died in 2002, just four months apart. He hopes to raise £500 towards the hospice’s care in their memory.

“My father passed away after being diagnosed with bowel cancer,” said David. “I love hearing people’s stories about how they have coped with cancer and this has inspired me to raise money for Ashgate Hospice.

“It’s an amazing charity that does amazing things for sick people, including those who have cancer. I think my parents would love the work does Ashgate for people in the community if they were still with us.”

Entry into the 2024 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K costs £25 per person. Participants can also choose to purchase a t-shirt for an additional £10.

Volunteers are also needed at the event to help with marshalling and with bag collection – anyone who is able to help is asked to complete this form or contact Ashgate Hospice’s events team.

If you have any questions about this event, please email Ashgate Hospice’s events team at events@ashgatehospice.org.uk.

Young Spireites learn life saving first-aid skills

csals Chesterfield FC First aid training

Players from Chesterfield FC Junior & Youth Academy took part in a first aid session provided by CSALS, a charity dedicated to ensuring more people are equipped with vital life-saving knowledge.

CSALS’ lead trainer, John Hutchinson, showed the youngsters how to perform CPR and other first aid skills.

The session was delivered in the HUB at the SMH Group Stadium and funded by Auto Windscreens as part of their support for CSALS via the charity’s 999 Appeal.

Shaun Atton, Business Development Director from Auto Windscreens, said: “We’ve been based in Chesterfield since being founded in 1971 and take our responsibilities to the community around us very seriously.

“We’re proud to support CSALS’ life-saving work and its most recent training session at Chesterfield FC, for which we’ve been a sponsor since 2022.

“We also make CSALS courses available to all our colleagues and their families, as we believe it’s important as many people as possible can provide assistance in an emergency.”

Debra Johnson, CSALS’ community facilitator, said: “We were delighted to see the aspiring young footballers learning skills that could help them save a life. I would like to thank Auto Windscreens for providing the funding to enable the session to go ahead.”

Chesterfield FC, CSALS, Ashgate Hospice, Banner Jones Solicitors, Redbrik and DBCP support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Champions announce new hires, promotions and award wins

Several Chesterfield businesses have taken on new team members, announced promotions, and even scooped awards for tourism recently.

Read the latest news from our town’s community of Chesterfield Champions below.

Silver awards for Matlock Farm Park and Peak Edge Hotel

Mum and son feeding a goat at Matlock Farm Park

Matlock Farm Park took home three silver awards for Visitor Attraction of the Year, Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award and Team of the year at the recent Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards.

Chesterfield’s Peak Edge Hotel was also amongst the businesses recognised at the event, with a silver award for Hotel of the Year.

The winners of the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards were announced at a special awards ceremony at the Museum of Making in Derby

Some of the area’s finest visitor attractions, experiences, pubs, restaurants and accommodation providers were amongst those recognised at the awards, designed to showcase excellence and outstanding achievement across the area’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire in collaboration with Visit Derby as the region’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), this year’s awards celebrated the success and resilience of tourism businesses whilst highlighting the sector’s valuable contribution to the local economy.

The awards were hotly contested, and finalists progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and a rigorous judging process by an independent panel of experts to arrive at last night’s ceremony.

Finalists, guests and partners enjoyed a drinks reception sponsored by White Peak Distillery followed by a three-course formal dinner in the historic surroundings of the Museum of Making, which is widely regarded as the site of the world’s first factory, at the heart of the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

Host Andy Miller compered the event as Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners were revealed in 14 awards categories celebrating the best of tourism in the local area.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards are a celebration of all that’s great about our tourism industry locally, and recognise its vital importance to the local economy as well as the dedication of those who work in this important sector.

“Tourism is worth £2.59 billion to the Peak District and Derbyshire, supporting thousands of jobs, and a strong, sustainable visitor economy is vital for the future success of our communities. The quality and diversity of our tourism offer is inspiring, and it has been an immense privilege to bring together such a wide range of tourism-related businesses to pay tribute to their hard work. It’s only fitting that many of our winners could now go on to represent the area nationally at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. Congratulations everyone!”

Mitchells Chartered Accountants welcomes new Senior Tax Specialist to bolster expert team

Mitchells group shot Liz Tim Jane B LR

Mitchells has announced the addition of Jane Falconer-White to its growing team in Chesterfield. She joins Chartered Tax Advisers Tim Leeman & Liz Fisher at the firm.

Jane brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the company, further strengthening its commitment to delivering exceptional tax advice to clients of all sizes.

Jane is a seasoned tax adviser and former management consultant, with a proven track record of success working with a diverse range of clients, from blue-chip organisations to individual sole traders. She also boasts a unique background in IT and project management, bringing valuable technical expertise and a collaborative approach.

But Jane’s strengths extend beyond qualifications and experience. She is passionate about simplifying the complex world of tax and empowering clients to make informed financial decisions. Driven by a desire to help people understand and improve, Jane excels at bridging the gap between technical jargon and everyday language. Mitchells believes that this, coupled with a flexible and fast-learning nature, makes her a perfect fit for the organisation.

“I’m excited to join Mitchells Chartered Accountants and contribute my skills to their already impressive team,” says Jane. “I’m particularly drawn to the firm’s focus on technology-driven solutions and client-centric approach, which aligns perfectly with my own values and working style.”

Mitchells Chartered Accountants Partner, Andrew McDaid adds, “We’re delighted to welcome Jane Falconer-White to the team. Her diverse experience, technical expertise, and passion for communication make her a valuable asset. We’re confident that Jane will play a key role in helping our clients navigate the ever-evolving tax landscape and achieve their financial goals.”

Banner Jones announces plans to bolster Residential Property team amidst continued growth in demand

Richard Joy and Kate Skelton

Banner Jones has announced plans to build on the existing expertise and capacity of its Residential Property team amidst continued demand for its services, having handled over 13,500 new residential property related matters over the last three years.

The announcement coincides with news that Shareholding Director and Solicitor Richard Joy will become the sole Head of Residential Property across the firm following the recent retirement of Mark Bilton, a well-known and highly regarded property solicitor in the Mansfield area, who stepped down from his role as Executive Director in November last year.

Richard will now work closely with Kate Skelton, a property law expert who deals with property sales and purchases, transfers of equity and re-mortgages, who has been promoted to Shareholding Director and who is stepping up as operational lead of the firm’s Sheffield and Dronfield-based residential property teams.

Looking to the future the duo say they are hoping to build on the existing expertise and capacity of the team, which has invested heavily in its IT infrastructure in recent years in order to best meet the evolving needs of clients.

The developments have included the launch of the firms online ‘Flying Start’ client portal which allows for much of the conveyancing transaction to be completed online, typically saving up to four weeks throughout the conveyancing process. The ability to deal with the transaction securely and electronically has significantly speeded up the onboarding and transaction times and allows clients to undertake the steps required at a convenient time without the need to attend our offices.

The firm’s Project Management System now also includes an integration to enable property searches to be ordered automatically, allowing for artificial intelligence to assist the expert legal advisors to produce reports for clients based on search reports received.

This year, the firm has also developed a compliance support service for estate agents designed to underpin their increasingly stringent regulatory requirements surrounding ID verification for anti-money laundering and material information disclosure.

Commenting on his role and the department’s continued growth ambitions, Richard Joy said: “I am delighted to be continuing in my role as Head of Residential Property, working alongside Kate to deliver on our growth ambitions which will further strengthen our existing client service offering.

“The conveyancing market in particular has been very active in recent years, and we are confident that the investments that we have made in our IT infrastructure means that we are well equipped to keep up with increased demand and to better meet the needs of clients who increasingly want to work in a more fluid and dynamic way.

“We’re committed to continuing to challenge the way that we do things moving forward to further enhance what we do and how we do it, and I am looking forward to leading the team throughout that process.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to wish Mark the best of luck as he moves to the next chapter in his life.”

Find out more about our award-winning legal services for businesses and individuals at www.bannerjones.co.uk

Long-serving Head of Charities at BHP to retire

Jane Marshall BHP

Jane Marshall, Partner and Head of Charities and Not-for-Profit at BHP, is to retire from her role at the end of March after 37 years at the firm.

As one of the leading independent accountancy firms in the North, Jane has helped grow the firm’s charities and not-for-profit expertise, leading it to be repeatedly recognised, at a national level, by Charity Finance Magazine in its annual audit survey. Most recently, in December 2023, BHP was named in the top 12 Charity Audit firms in the UK.

The recognition is based on feedback from clients and saw the firm top the national table for client service, scoring 97% for charity expertise and marking the 12th consecutive year of high scores for the firm. Following Jane’s retirement, Audit and Charities’ Partner, Laura Masheder will take on the role as Head of Charities and Not-for-Profit.

Jane founded BHP’s successful annual Charity Conference in 2005, after realising there was no provision for such high calibre events outside of London. Over the intervening 18 years, 15 conferences have been held, with the 2023 event attracting over 100 delegates from charities across the region to hear about the latest developments in the charity sector. During her time with the firm, Jane has also been a member of the ICAEW Charity Committee and was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire in 2017.

Jane began her work with charities and not-for-profits in the 1990s, before becoming Head of Charities in 2005 and Partner in 2008. She has overseen the team’s growth to be 65-strong, with professionals from across BHP’s five offices currently supporting over 250 charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Laura Masheder will be supported by three partners and three Director Responsible Individuals (RI). Laura is an accomplished Partner and has specialised in the charity and not-for-profit sector for over a decade. She has been working alongside Jane since joining BHP’s charity team in October 2022 and has a wide range of experience providing audit, compliance, technical accounting and compliance services to many charities and owner managed businesses.

Jane said: “I’ve enjoyed many happy years with BHP and have seen the firm grow from one office in Sheffield in the 1980s to be represented now by five offices, covering the whole of Yorkshire and North Derbyshire and serving an enviable client base. I’m enormously proud of the Charities and Not for Profit team we’ve developed, and I know it will flourish and grow further under Laura’s leadership.

“I wish the firm every success in what’s to come and will continue to champion the expert work and values of everyone involved in the firm.”

BHP Joint CEO Lisa Leighton said: “Jane will be greatly missed by her colleagues, clients and so many of her friends and associates across the firm and the industry. She has shared her vast knowledge and experience with countless team members over the last 37 years and leaves a lasting legacy within our Charities team.

I’d like to thank Jane for her commitment and dedication to BHP and the not-for-profit sector and wish her a very happy retirement.”

Laura added: “Jane has played a key role in establishing BHP as a Northern powerhouse within the third sector and I look forward, along with the rest of the team, to continuing to support our clients as they navigate what can only be described as a challenging economic period.
Personally, I wish Jane all the best for her retirement and can’t thank her enough for sharing her expertise and guidance with me since I joined the firm.”

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.

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PEAK Gateway Resort receives reserved matters planning approval

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved the reserved matters planning application for a revised first phase of the PEAK Gateway Resort on the reclaimed Birchall Estate. The 300-acre property is located on the eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

PEAK proposes to bring the scope and services of internationally successful ski resorts to create the UK’s equivalent for biking, hiking and other adventure sports as well as for nature, culture and heritage experiences.

PEAK will have its own micro grid for energy, waste and water. PEAK will generate and consume its own energy and operate a zero-carbon tourism dedicated mobility service.

Planning permission includes extensive overnight and holiday accommodation supported by hospitality, leisure, wellness, a multi-disciplinary bike park and experiential retail. As such, it is one of the largest permitted mixed-use leisure schemes in the UK. Five of the six largest cities in England are within 75 miles, providing a visitor catchment of over 20 million people.

Labelled Gateway at PEAK Image

Locally, PEAK has the potential to create over 1,000 new jobs. It will partner with the education sector to deliver a Green Skills Academy in support of both PEAK and Chesterfield’s commitment to training and upskilling across a broad range of key sectors, but especially for construction and tourism.

PEAK will be open to day, as well as stay visitors. Local residents and businesses will be able to take advantage of incentives and membership opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “PEAK Resort offers a fantastic opportunity to bring more visitors into Chesterfield, grow our local economy and create a range of new jobs.

“It will be an incredible asset for our borough and will be a national leader in respect of clean energy, zero carbon mobility and skills.

“I look forward to seeing this development take shape over the next few years.”

PEAK Gateway Resort from above

The current landowner has, over many years, fully reclaimed the 300-acre Birchall estate from opencast. The property now provides the perfect natural setting for the consented development. Nature and outdoor experiences are at the heart of the PEAK offer and BNG (Biodiversity Net Gain) resulting from the development will all be achieved on the property.

Birchall and PEAK hope to be an exemplar of the reclamation of land from the industries of the past into enterprises of the future.

Rupert Carr, a director of Birchall and Peak Gateway Properties, said at the Planning Committee Meeting: “PEAK is the opportunity to deliver a clean growth infrastructure for the regional visitor economy, an opportunity for Chesterfield and indeed the region to build a significant presence in one of the fastest growing economic sectors. PEAK is finally of its time.”

PEAK Resort will also support the UK’s first hydrogen and EV tourist mobility service linking visitors to Chesterfield’s medieval market town centre, its national rail station and surrounding attractions as well as to the trails and natural wonders of the National Park.

Tarah Gear, director at Milligan who are part of Peak Gateway Properties said; “PEAK will become a blueprint for sustainable tourism, adding value to Chesterfield’s economy and community through job creation, investment in skills and regional connectivity.

“Milligan are proud to have been part of the team bringing the project forward to a point of market readiness. PEAK, as proposed, has been achieved through true partnership, a collaboration between local and regional stakeholders as well as national and international commercial operators. PEAK now has the opportunity to be a trailblazer and set new standards for the future of leisure and tourism.”

Colliers’ National Capital Markets team have been appointed to take the project forwards.

PEAK Gateway View

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New partnership to deliver cutting-edge CPD courses for business executives

A groundbreaking partnership aimed at revolutionising professional development and career advancement opportunities has been launched by the University of Derby and In Professional Development.

This strategic collaboration combines the academic excellence of the University of Derby with the innovative training solutions provided by In Professional Development, providing individuals and organisations with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

This integration will ensure that those who attend the courses are equipped not only with academic qualifications but also with practical skills that are highly sought after by employers.

The collaboration will extend beyond the classroom (face to face and virtual), offering tailored professional development solutions to organisations seeking to upskill their workforce. Through workshops, seminars, and customised training programmes, employees will have the opportunity to enhance their expertise in key areas such as leadership, project management, digital marketing and more, which they can use to drive organisational growth and success.

The partnership brings together the University’s expertise in industry-focused teaching and state-of-the-art facilities, with In Professional Development’s experience in delivering executive education and its reputation as one of the largest providers of Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualifications outside of universities.

Commenting on the partnership, Samantha Deakin, Head of Enterprise at the University of Derby, said: “Our partnership with In Professional Development is a strategic boost to our already strong offering in executive education. Our range of CMI-accredited degrees, from undergraduate Business Management to MBAs, along with our successful business-to-business training initiatives, sets a strong foundation for this collaboration.

“This move is about enriching the way we educate business leaders. The partnership will blend In Professional Development’s extensive connections and industry insights with our academic and research expertise, offering a unique and relevant learning experience. It’s about taking our commitment to top-quality education to the next level and adapting to the changing needs of the business world.”

The first course to launch will be the Executive Leadership Programme, which is designed to help business leaders to unlock potential through transformative leadership for Executives.

As the partnership develops, more courses will be added, including industry-specific options.

The new partnership is the first step in the creation of a residential hub for CPD in Chesterfield, where the University has a teaching site. Courses will also be delivered at the University’s sites in Derby, with a conference for School and Academy leaders planned in June.

Marc Davis, Executive Director of In Professional Development, said: “We are excited to partner with the University of Derby to deliver high-quality professional development solutions that meet the evolving needs of individuals and organisations. By combining our expertise in training and development with the University’s academic resources, we aim to create a seamless pathway for individuals to enhance their skills and achieve their career goals.”

This partnership underlines the shared commitment of both institutions to fostering lifelong learning and empowering individuals to reach their full potential in the workforce.

The University’s new Business School is currently under construction in the city centre and when completed will provide a facility for cutting-edge research, learning and teaching, and support businesses in the region and across the globe.

Want to receive regular skills updates? Sign up for our skills and employability newsletter to be informed of the latest news, events, initiatives and showcases taking place in the local community: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-employability-newsletter-signup/.

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.

Back of red brick University of Derby building, purple flowers at front

University of Derby, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield

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£117m to be invested in council housing across Chesterfield

Around £117 million is to be invested into council homes across Chesterfield over the next four years – as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s continued commitment to creating affordable, decent homes for people across the borough.

The Housing Capital Programme sets out the investment priorities for the next financial year, which will see the council spend £30.1 million on improving and increasing the housing supply in the borough.

The capital programme also details the council’s longer-term plans through to March 2028 to ensure that the council can continue to meet the decent homes standard, further improve the energy efficiency of its houses, and provide quality, affordable and accessible homes for local people.

Modernisation and refurbishment of the council’s existing homes remains a key priority in the council’s programme and will see the continuation of kitchen improvements and roofing upgrades, whilst there will also be improvements to footpaths, fencing and gates to help improve the look and feel of neighbourhoods.

In addition to refurbishing the existing housing stock, the council is committed to building almost 100 new council properties by 2028 to increase the number of affordable homes available in the area. Work to create 22 new build properties at Middlecroft and Westwood Avenue is now well underway, and additional sites have also been identified for new build projects.

In line with the council’s climate strategy, the work set out in the capital programme will also make a significant step towards improving the energy efficiency of its homes, for example replacing boilers and windows with more efficient options – allowing Chesterfield to become a low carbon, resilient and sustainable borough. This will not only help to reduce carbon emissions but will also help to reduce energy bills for tenants.

A further investment will also be made to help tackle damp and mould in homes. A recent survey has shown that the number of homes experiencing issues with damp and mould has almost halved but the council remains committed to tackling these issues.

Councillor Jean Innes, cabinet member for housing, said: “Our aim, as always, is to enhance Chesterfield’s housing offer and ensure we can provide affordable high-quality homes. A stock condition survey carried out in 2022 identified that the quality of our council homes has improved from the previous survey that took place in 2017.  This shows our investments have been made in the right areas, but we know there is more that we can do to ensure we can achieve and maintain a 100% decent homes standard.

“Our newly approved capital programme set out our strong commitment to achieving this and improving our homes to ensure they meet the needs of the people of Chesterfield, as well as actively contributing to the climate change agenda by ensuring all homes are energy efficient.

“Like local authorities across the country, the council is facing unprecedented financial challenges  but our priority is to make sure under-pressure budgets are spent on the essential services that local people rely on, including the provision of quality and affordable homes for the people of Chesterfield.”

town hall drone shot

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