chesterfield news

Calls made for government funding to unlock regeneration in Staveley

Politicians and businesses are calling for government funding to help bring forward the Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route (CSRR), to ensure a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to revitalise several former north Derbyshire mining communities is not missed.

The proposed 6km road would unlock the development of the former Staveley Works site for new housing, commercial units and community spaces, and also the former Staveley Chemical Works site for employment uses. Investment in the new road would also align with many of the projects currently being delivered through the £25.2 million Staveley Town Deal.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader, Councillor Tricia Gilby, was joined by local MPs Toby Perkins (Chesterfield) and Louise Jones (North East Derbyshire), plus officer representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council, and landowners Harworth Group and The Devonshire Group, on a recent site visit to discuss the enormous potential of the Staveley Growth Corridor in terms of new homes, new jobs, a new primary school and new leisure opportunities centred on the Chesterfield Canal.

Harworth Group and The Devonshire Group have both submitted planning applications to Chesterfield Borough Council to develop their respective parts of the former Staveley Works site, which if fulfilled could generate an additional £205 million of spend per annum into the local economy. In addition, The Devonshire Group is exploring how it can redevelop the adjacent former Staveley Chemical Works site for employment uses.

These proposals are dependent on the delivery of the Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route, which if constructed will also unlock other regeneration and development opportunities in the Staveley area, relieve road congestion and improve air quality.

The former Staveley Chemical Works site together with the former Hartington Colliery site are also earmarked for inclusion in the proposed East Midlands Investment Zone – where the priority will be to attract new green technology and advance manufacturing businesses and create new high-quality jobs for local people.

Funding for the road project is currently being considered by the Department for Transport.

Many of the region’s political leaders have signalled their support for the new route and the regeneration that would be unlocked by it, including East Midlands Combined County Authority Mayor Claire Ward, who visited the site in July.

Toby Perkins MP said: “The Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route is vitally important to the regeneration of Staveley and alongside improving traffic flows for everyone, it is likely to lead to thousands of new jobs and hundreds of new homes. It is important that money is found to complete the detailed land investigation work which is needed to provide certainty on the costs of the clean-up and construction. And after that we need confirmed approval that the funding for the road will be made available. I will be stressing the importance of this to the new Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, alongside our new Mayor Claire Ward and other local politicians and business leaders.”

Louise Jones MP said: “There is huge potential for the Regeneration Route to unlock the homes and jobs that our community needs. I’m determined that we grab this opportunity with both hands – I’ll be working with Toby Perkins, Claire Ward and our local councils to secure the funding we need to get the project up and running.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We couldn’t be better placed to realise the enormous potential of the Staveley Growth Corridor. The public and private sector are fully aligned in terms of their shared commitment to delivering 1,300 new homes and separately building a commercial estate that will support the creation of 6,400 new jobs over a five to ten-year horizon.

“Our collective ability to do this is however reliant on government support for the Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route and trying to secure this is a priority action. It is therefore very encouraging to have the full support of our local MPs and East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward.

“We want Chesterfield to be a thriving borough and working together as partners we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver long-lasting change and future prosperity for communities that are still recovering from the decline of mining and other traditional industries.”

Councillor Carolyn Renwick, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment, said: “The Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route is one of the most significant economic growth opportunities in the East Midlands. It has the capacity to deliver the government’s growth agenda by reclaiming brownfield land and facilitating forward jobs, homes and environmental benefits at scale, ensuring an old industrial site is brought back to life.

“With our partners, Chesterfield Borough Council, Harworth Estates and The Devonshire Group, we want to work with government to deliver this transformational investment that will bring widespread benefits to communities along the Staveley Corridor and join the dots with other strategic investments in Chesterfield and across Derbyshire’s northern growth zone.”

Jo Neville, Harworth Group’s regional head of planning, said: “The walkaround the site and the previous visits from the East Midlands Mayor earlier in the summer show real commitment from the region’s leaders to addressing local housing need and creating opportunities for communities.

“We’re looking forward to continuing to work with our partners in Chesterfield to deliver at Staveley Works and hope the government recognises the strategic case for investing in this part of the country as part of its national growth agenda.”

Andy Byrne, Group Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group, said: “We are committed to helping bring the successful regeneration of this once thriving industrial heartland to fruition, so it is reassuring to see and hear the continued support of local politicians. With plans submitted and the support from local stakeholders, we’re raring to get started, so all that’s left is commitment from the Department for Transport to help deliver the new route and unlock this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

Staveley regeneration route campaign - politicians viewing plans for new road

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Chesterfield design agency nominated as finalists for prestigious business awards

A Chesterfield-based design agency has recently been shortlisted for two prestigious awards, in business and entrepreneurship.

Led by Natalie Burkinshaw (Founder and Creative Director), Crush is a design agency that works to support local businesses through to global corporations with impactful branding, design, website development and marketing support.

This month, the agency has been shortlisted for the regional East Midlands Business Awards, under the category ‘Creative and Media’, whilst the agency founder, Natalie, has been shortlisted for the national, female-championing Novi Awards, under the category ‘Female Entrepreneur’.

As an independent agency working in an environment of 25,000 other UK agencies, these awards prove to be a testament to Crush’s expertise and experience within the creative sector.

From rebranding Chesterfield Borough Council to building the new Ministry of Sound website, Crush’s ethos centres around their motto of ‘Global reach, Local love’. This ethos, too, is reflected in these awards themselves, as an agency nominated for both a regional business award, and a national award honouring the impact of female leadership, innovation and entrepreneurism in business.

Taking place in October this year, the East Midlands Business Awards is an annual event that brings together inspirational business leaders from the local region, recognising shared business success. With several categories, including Creative and Media, the awards aim to unite organisations from across a wide range of different sectors and specialisms to come together in a celebration of excellence in business.

On the other hand, The Novi Awards are specific awards aimed at celebrating female leaders and championing change in business. A 100% female-owned, global community of women, Novi recognises women amongst a variety of categories such as entrepreneurs, leaders, rising stars, mentors and many more. The Novi Leadership Summit and Awards  takes place in London later this year.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder and Creative Director at Crush said: “I am exceptionally proud of the whole team. They each bring a unique quality to Crush and it’s a genuine delight to see what they create and deliver for our clients. Entering awards is not something we have ever done before but this year I wanted to really celebrate the team’s hard work and dedication. Becoming finalists in our first two submissions is an absolute honour, not to mention a terrific surprise.”

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

Woman with dark hair sat at desk with apple mac in front of her

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BHP invests in future talent with 34 new trainees

Chesterfield-based independent accountancy firm BHP has welcomed 34 new trainees.

This latest intake includes 17 graduates, nine non-graduates and eight placement students. All of the trainees will take part in BHP’s successful training programme, which is run across each of BHP’s five offices, and all its service lines. The programme provides an opportunity for those looking to break into the finance industry to gain hands-on experience while studying for their professional qualifications.

For the past five years, the BHP training programme has helped over 200 professionals build thriving careers. This year’s programme included a two-week induction, where the entire cohort came together with past trainees and team members from all five of BHP’s offices to share experiences and learnings.

Karen Arch, chief people officer at BHP, said: “At BHP, we’re passionate about nurturing and developing the skills of young professionals looking to break through and leave their mark on the finance industry.

“One of the core values at BHP is about having a positive impact, whether that be on our clients, the communities in which we work or the lives of people who work here. Our trainee programme is key to this as not only through each intake do we help create the next generation of advisors, we also ensure that our clients and our own business are able thrive – not just today, but long into the future.

“Being certified as a Great Place to Work® we pride ourselves on being a supportive workplace that always keeps the wellbeing and future success of our people at the forefront of our business.”

Looking for support to upskill your workforce? Get in touch with us today and we’ll refer you to the right people to help your business grow.

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

Large group of accountancy trainees wearing formal attire in a large huddle

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Apprenticeship events aim to help young people discover career pathways

A series of three events aim to help young people and their and parents and carers learn more about apprenticeships and the options available to them after completing school.

After a successful first year there will be three more Apprenticeship and Technical Education Information Events held in venues around Chesterfield between October 2024 and May 2025.

All three events include information around construction, manufacturing and engineering and health and social care sectors. They will include a question-and-answer panel and the opportunity to speak with Young Apprentice ambassadors to gain a full understanding of different opportunities within these sectors once completing formal education.

The events are organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, the East Midlands Combined County Authority Careers Hub and Workpays.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth said: “We saw lots of young people and their parents come along to these events last year because they provide a fantastic opportunity to find out more about apprenticeships. This information allows young people to make informed decisions about their future and reassures parents about the opportunities available to their child.

“Working in partnership with East Midlands Combined County Authority Careers Hub, the ASK programme and local businesses is crucial to ensuring that the information provided at the event is relevant to people in Chesterfield and can help create a pipeline of talented school leavers that can help local businesses to grow.”

There will be three events held over the next year. The first will be held at Staveley Miner’s Welfare Football Club from 6pm to 7.15pm on Wednesday 23 October, the next event will be at Hasland Village Hall on 26 February 2025 and the final event will be held at the SMH Group Stadium on 21 May 2025.

Will Morlidge, Interim Executive Director of Inclusive Growth at East Midlands Combined County Authority, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way for many young people – and older workers – to better understand not only what businesses are looking for, but also to understand their own motivations and strengths. That empowers learners to make smart choices about their future career, and we know that being in the learning environment or job that is right for an individual hugely increases the likelihood of completing the learning or sticking with an employer. It’s vital that we keep getting the message out to learners and employers an apprenticeship can be a smart move for the learner and an excellent value for money investment for a business.”

Tina Patel, from the ASK programme, said: “After the successful events from last year, these   events will provide information and guidance on how to look for the opportunities available in construction, manufacturing, and health sectors. I am looking forward to meeting you all at these events, to support parents and young people to look at all the opportunities available and to answer any questions. We have an ASK ambassador who will be attending, who can support with searching for local vacancies and provide resources.”

All three events for the next year have been listed on the Chesterfield Borough Council website.

Careers event at Staveley MWFC

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Business community called to inspire future talent in Chesterfield

Businesses are being invited to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chesterfield by getting involved with local schools.

This is an opportunity not just to give back to the community but to help cultivate future talent to drive Chesterfield’s economy forward.

Local businesspeople are encouraged to engage with students by attending careers fairs, conducting mock interviews, and participating in employer question-and-answer sessions.

Beyond these events, some schools are also seeking work experiences for students in years 10 and 11., providing them with invaluable insights into the world of work.

The schools reaching out include Brookfield Community School, Outwood Academy Hasland Hall, Outwood Academy Newbold, Parkside School, Springwell Community School, St Mary’s Catholic High School, Whittington Green School and Netherthorpe School.

It is hoped that links with businesses will provide real-world experience and guidance to shape the career paths of young people.

Keith Hirst, Headteacher at Brookfield Community School, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “There is no better way to inspire our young people and give them insights into the world of work than by connecting them with local businesses. Engaging in activities like mock interviews, careers fairs, and Q&A sessions allows our students to understand how businesses operate and what it takes to build a successful career.”

Mr. Hirst added: “We aim to support our local businesses in developing strong workforces. These sessions offer mutual benefits—for our schools, our young people, and Chesterfield’s broader economy.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the council’s Skills and Employment Partnership, echoed these sentiments, urging businesses to get involved: “It is vital that we bridge the gap between education and business to ensure our young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in their chosen careers.

“Businesses have a crucial role to play in inspiring future talent, showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in Chesterfield, and preparing local students for their future steps. This is not just a chance to contribute to the community but an opportunity to connect with potential future employees, understand the emerging workforce’s expectations, and ensure that the skills they are nurturing align with industry needs.”

For more information on how your business can support local schools, including a list of schools and event dates, please visit the Chesterfield website.

Looking to upskill your workforce and boost your business? Explore available resources and support at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Businessperson speaks to room full of school pupils

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Timber Floor trade counter operator secures new Chesterfield showroom

Timber Floor Studio has completed a relocation in Chesterfield, in a move that places the company in a prime position on one of the town’s busiest roads.

The business has made the move to the new unit, just off the A61 at Whittington Moor Roundabout. Timber Floor Studio is an independent business dedicated to supplying and installing high-quality flooring. It provides flooring for homes and businesses, serving Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and surrounding areas.

The letting follows a brief marketing period by Salloway Property Consultants, which generated a high amount of interest from occupiers throughout the midlands and further afield.

Salloway Property Consultants were appointed by the property owners to assist in securing a suitable tenant for the property. The premises are located adjacent to an existing trade counter unit, comprising c. 2,200sq.ft. of showroom space including office accommodation.

William Speed of Salloway Property Consultants, who agreed the deal on behalf of a private client, commented: “It’s great to be able to facilitate a move for a local company in Chesterfield. Timber Floor Studio have showrooms in Doncaster, Worksop and Chesterfield but the Chesterfield move is a real upgrade for them, moving into a much more prominent unit beside the A61.”

Tony Adams from Timber Floor Studio knew it was the right location for them since the property first went on the market: “We have been looking to relocate for some time now so when this property came onto the market, we knew it was right for us. We are very excited to open our new trade counter at Greenline Business Park, we recognise that the location offers us great opportunities.”

William Speed added: “It is still evident that high spec industrial and trade counter units are extremely popular in Chesterfield, with more and more tenants looking for space. We strongly recommend that anyone looking to sell or let their premises contacts us to discuss potential options.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an ideal location to base your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Exterior of Timber Floor Studio building with branding and signs on

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£780,000 investment to deliver a countywide cultural programme in Derbyshire

Major Arts Council England investment will help to deliver a countywide cultural programme across Derbyshire.

A place partnership award of £780,000 has been secured by Derbyshire County Council from Arts Council England to support Derbyshire Makes, a major new programme of countywide cultural activity.

This new 3-year programme will celebrate making in all its forms and shine a spotlight on the county’s extraordinary creative and cultural industries.

Inspired by the county’s significant making and manufacturing heritage, unique landscape and the artists, craftspeople, designers and manufacturers who call Derbyshire their home, Derbyshire Makes will explore innovation, creativity, design, craft, skills and manufacturing, all through the lens of making.

It will provide hands-on making opportunities for residents, creative projects for local school children and volunteering opportunities, as well as paid opportunities for local artists and creative businesses.

It also aims to nurture people’s creative potential and build new skills across the county for the future. Activities will include walks, talks, exhibitions, events, markets, hands-on workshops, a major digital commission, an annual festival and so much more.

Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Making, creativity and culture helps to bring communities together, animate high streets, support town centre regeneration, boost the local economy including tourism, safeguard traditional skills and crafts and support local creative businesses.

“I’m pleased that with the help of funding from Arts Council England, we’re able to bring this exciting programme of events to our communities to get more people involved in creative arts and learn about the important role making plays in the Derbyshire story, not just in our past but also our present and future.”

Derbyshire Makes is one of the county’s most far-reaching cultural programmes and has already secured 50 partners to support its delivery.

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted to be investing £780,000 in Derbyshire Makes through our Place Partnership programme, thanks to National Lottery players.

“Culture can play a vital role in bringing people together, providing opportunities for people to develop skills and boosting the local economy, and we look forward to seeing how this investment helps to make a difference to people across Derbyshire.”

Arts Derbyshire will coordinate a programme of free, hands-on making activities across six community Hubs in Chesterfield, Bolsover, Swadlincote, Glossop, Heanor and Matlock/Cromford/Wirksworth.

The aim is to collaborate closely with a diverse collective of local partners and groups dedicated to enhancing Derbyshire’s cultural offer, and to involve as many participants as possible in an eclectic range of participatory activities and commissions.

Claire Tymon, Director, Local, states: “Building on our work with the Derbyshire Cultural Framework, Local are excited to curate and deliver the countywide Derbyshire Makes programme. By harnessing our deep-rooted expertise in Derbyshire and tapping into the unique creativity of our communities, we aim to co-create a memorable programme that truly showcases what makes our county special for residents and visitors alike.”

Stephen Munn, Director, Arts Derbyshire, says: “Arts Derbyshire is delighted to be part of this important and innovative new project to be delivered across our county over the next three years. Winning this tender is a significant milestone for Arts Derbyshire. We are eager to embark on this journey working with local artists, cultural partners and audiences to help create an even more vibrant cultural landscape that benefits everyone in Derbyshire.”

In addition to the £780,000 Place Partnership award from Arts Council England, funding was ringfenced for Derbyshire Makes from Covid Recovery funding. The Culture, Heritage and Tourism (CHAT) board will oversee the Derbyshire Makes project.

More details will be announced later in the year including how to get involved.

Growth Sculpture Horns bridge Roundabout

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Hospice’s refurb to improve patient experience gets under way

A refurbishment project at Chesterfield’s Ashgate Hospice will double the capacity of outpatients it can provide palliative care for.

Work to enhance outpatient services at the site in Old Brampton, Chesterfield, started on 23 September and will be complete by January. The project will see the charity’s Day Services area, as well as the main reception, waiting area, clinic rooms and fundraising hub upgraded.

As part of the plan, Day Services will be separated into three spaces to provide a larger capacity and variety for its regular drop-in sessions. Rooms will also be redecorated and new furnishings will be installed throughout.

The work aims to improve the patient experience for patients with an incurable diagnosis like Mand Black, who accesses support, advice and activities at the unit. The 53-year-old, who was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2015, has been visiting Day Services for more than a year.

Mand, from Chesterfield, said: “I was diagnosed nine years ago – you bump into people and can see on their face: ‘Aren’t you dead yet?’ According to the books I should be. But I don’t want to be dead yet so I’m not planning to be!

“Lots of people think hospices are all about end of life but palliative care is not necessarily about dying; in my case it’s all about trying to live well.

“Day Services is an environment where everybody knows that there’s something going on, but we just accept each other as we are and often don’t even talk about our illnesses.

“There are so many complementary therapies you have access to. I’ve had some amazing massage and reflexology at the drop-in sessions, I’ve learnt tai chi and the craft activities are just excellent.

“You can get medical and financial advice that has given me instantaneous reassurance and meant I haven’t had to try and get a hospital appointment – that’s been just priceless.

“And just being able to meet others who have that unspoken understanding is so special. The whole thing has been such a positive experience.”

The revamped space will allow the hospice to run drop-in sessions, activities, and other programs at the same time, which is not possible in the current space. It will also mean the service can be opened for an additional two days per week, meaning double the number of people will potentially be able to access the unit.

Sarah Kerry, Day Services Manager for Ashgate Hospice, said the project would improve the experience for patients and those important to them accessing services: “We’re so pleased that work is about to get under way on refurbishing our outpatient services at the hospice,” she said.

ashgate daycare refurb - artists impression

“Our Day Services are often attended by people in the early stages of their illness, and we want to be able to provide a space that enables our patients to live well with their diagnosis.

“The work will enable us to offer a more practical, modern, accessible and welcoming service for people attending drop-in sessions, support groups or outpatient appointments.

“Having flexibility in the space gives us the chance to increase the variety of our services for our patients.

“We are looking forward to how we can develop services even further in the future.”

Mand Black, who attends sessions each week, said she was looking forward to visiting the hospice once the work has been completed. She added: “I’m really excited about the refurbishment. I love the services now, but this work will mean you can go into a private room if needed and it be a bit quieter which will be lovely.

“The staff there will be able to focus on individuals and we – as patients – will be able to get the absolute most out of our visits.”

Work on the project, which will cause minimal temporary disruption to the hospice’s outpatient services, will take between 10 to 12 weeks to complete. Throughout the refurbishment period, the hospice’s Day Services will temporarily relocate to Ashgate’s Harry Fisher building on the site, which will serve as the temporary hospice reception.

Outpatient clinics will be based on the hospice’s Inpatient Unit, while phone and video call services will continue. Find out more about Ashgate Hospice’s Day Services and the refurbishment project on the charity’s website.

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

Ashgate new daycare centre

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Local author uncovers hidden history of Chesterfield town centre in latest book

An author is inviting people to explore some of Chesterfield town centre’s hidden gems in his latest book.

Peter Gray has penned ‘A Walk Around Chesterfield’s Hidden Town Centre,’ working with local publisher, Bannister Publications to release the title.

The book takes the reader through a self-guided walk around the town centre, lasting around three miles, but staying within a third of a mile from Rykneld Square.

40 maps and sketches created by Peter as part of the book provide a fresh perspective on the town centre.

In addition to popular landmarks like The Shambles and The Crooked Spire, the walk highlights a wide range buildings, sculptures, alleyways, snickets, and architectural delights.

The walk featured as part of the 2024 Chesterfield Area Walking Festival, and participants said they’d uncovered something new, even after living in Chesterfield for years.

Peter explains: “My aim was to let people find the nooks and crannies of the town that they may not have visited before and to tell a little about the town’s history.

“I’ve been in Chesterfield for over thirty years and always found it a great place to live, work and raise a family. I was initially inspired by a similar style book about the city of York (The Snickelways of York) and I thought I could do something similar for Chesterfield.

“I’ve found the history of Chesterfield fascinating and in 2016 I was part of the group which put together Chesterfield 750 – a medieval pageant day to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Chesterfield. Everyone who has spoken to me about the walk has said that they’ve found out places of information that they were not aware of before.”

Peter will be back in town on November 9th for a Meet the Author event at Waterstones Chesterfield, giving local history lovers the opportunity to speak about the book and Chesterfield’s historic town centre.

People interested in purchasing the book can buy a copy directly from the Bannister Publications website.

Planning a visit to Chesterfield? Make the most of your stay by finding out about local events, activities, places to eat and more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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

Peter Gray stood wearing red shirt on Elder Way in Chesterfield

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Chesterfield’s Global Brands receives £100,000 grant to support sustainability goals

Global Brands Ltd has been awarded a £100,000 grant to support its ambitious sustainability strategy with new technologies.

The funding will be used to introduce state-of-the-art energy-efficient technologies at Global Brands’ Clay Cross distribution centre, accelerating its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve coveted net zero status by 2050.

The grant, from the Clay Cross Town Deal’s Low Carbon Challenge Fund, will facilitate three crucial elements: the installation of energy-efficient lighting, deployment of battery storage solutions to harness solar energy, and the creation of an onsite Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuelling station.

These measures are expected to substantially reduce emissions from Global Brands’ distribution operations, with the drinks business already aiming for a 40% cut per £M turnover by 2030, as well as a 92% reduction per £M turnover by 2050.

Shaun Bacon, Group Managing and Financial Director at Global Brands, commented: “This investment marks another pivotal moment in our sustainability journey. As part of a single-use industry, it is crucial to lead by example and adopt meaningful changes that reduce our environmental impact. By switching to energy-efficient solutions and alternative fuels, we’re committed to doing our bit locally and hope to inspire other businesses in our community to do the same.”

The grant bolsters Global Brands’ existing sustainability strategy, which includes transitioning to a fully electric and HVO-powered fleet, using 100% renewable electricity by 2025, and partnering with suppliers who are equally committed to decarbonisation. The business recently became members of SEDEX, a move that will further enhance its ability to manage supply chain sustainability.

Shaun continued: “With plans already in place to switch the entire logistics fleet to zero-carbon by 2050, and with over 50% of the warehouse energy now powered by solar panels, this funding allows Global Brands to continue driving forward its sustainability goals.”

The grant has been provided by the North East Derbyshire District Council through the Low Carbon Challenge Fund – a programme of support to help stimulate the transition to a low carbon economy.

Lee Barnes, Chair of the Clay Cross Town Board, added: “We’re seeing some significant change as more businesses like Global Brands complete their journey with the Low Carbon Challenge Fund. Recipients have praised the process of receiving grants as being quick, easy and well worth their time, and it’s heart-warming to know we were able to support them as part of their mission to be more sustainable.”

Global Brands continues to take a proactive approach to sustainability, from using 100% recyclable packaging materials to implementing innovative employee training and establishing an internal ESG committee.

With a diverse drinks portfolio featuring iconic names like VK, Franklin & Sons, and Hooch, the company remains unwavering in its commitment to driving continuous improvement across all its brands and operational areas, setting new benchmarks for sustainability within the drinks industry.

For more information on Global Brands’ sustainability initiatives, please visit: https://globalbrands.co.uk/sustainability/

Is your business based in Chesterfield? Support is now available to help grow your organisation. Find out more by getting in touch here. 

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

Two men in high visibility jackets stood in front of wall with sustainability statistics written on.

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New initiative to boost skills in Chesterfield’s manufacturing sector

A new programme aims to help businesses in the manufacturing and engineering sector upskill their staff and bring new people into the sector.

Manufacturing Futures is a new STEM skills programme that will help increase capacity to support more work-based learning programmes including T-levels, apprenticeships, work experience and internships to ensure there is a future pipeline of talent to work in the sector.

Funded by Chesterfield Borough Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund the programme will lead to the creation of new classroom facilities at local business United Cast Bar and will provide mentoring to around 30 people already employed in the sector.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic development, said: “Chesterfield has a proud tradition of engineering and manufacturing, but we need to ensure this sector can continue to grow and provide new opportunities for our residents. I’m pleased that we have been able to fund this programme as it will help people advance their careers and support our residents to take up roles in this sector in the future.

“Working in partnership with businesses and education providers is key to ensuring this programme is effective and provides the support the sector needs.”

Chesterfield College has been appointed to deliver the training elements included within the programme.

James Lund, Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Business Growth at Chesterfield College Group, said: “Chesterfield College are really excited to be involved in the delivery of this project in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Manufacturing Forum and United Cast Bar UK Limited. This will be a real catalyst to increasing the engagement with young people in the local area, to support the future staffing needs of the manufacturing sector. It will create a positive legacy that can be built on for many years to come.”

The programme has been introduced following discussions with the Chesterfield Manufacturing Forum which is co-ordinated by Destination Chesterfield and as well as technical training it will include practical sessions with local employers.

James Brand, Managing Director (Foundries) at United Cast Bar and Chair of the Chesterfield Manufacturing Forum, said: “We are really excited to be able to put this facility in place. It will give us the perfect location to provide upskilling to both our workforce and other businesses in the Manufacturing community.

“The space will also provide a place of learning for T Level and apprenticeship qualifications, allowing UCB to work even more closely with the College and local schools is fantastic.”

The programme is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is one of several skills programmes to receive funding which will help ensure local residents can advance their career and that the local economy can grow.

This is just one of a range of projects and initiatives which is being funded through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6 million from the Government. It will fund initiatives, until 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

Weightron weighbridge manufacturing - sparks flying as employee welds metal

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