chesterfield news

New leisure centre to be built in Clay Cross

A new leisure centre is set to be built in Clay Cross, which will be developed on the site of the current Sharley Park Leisure Centre.

North East Derbyshire District Council has been granted planning permission for the new leisure centre – Clay Cross Active, with works set to commence in early 2023.

The new centre will be a low carbon, low energy building and a hub for the community. Along with the 100 plus gym space, soft play, swimming, café and TAG Active facilities, there will be the addition of North East Derbyshire Citizens Advice and other services, all nestled within the new building.

Whilst works are underway, the gym and swimming pools will remain open. However, so that works can be started, the fitness studio, sports hall, spinning studio and squash courts are closed.

Some classes will still be running at alternative venues, please visit their website for more details.

Built by the Council’s development partner, Alliance Leisure, the new facility is expected to open in winter 2024 and is funded through the Clay Cross Town Fund and North East Derbyshire District Council and partners.

North East Derbyshire District Cabinet Member for Leisure, Cllr Alan Powell said, “We are delighted to get planning permission for the new leisure facility at Clay Cross and are excited to start work on site.

“The current facility is old and dated and our residents have said they wanted a new facility which will bring the community together, and we are delighted to say this will be happening imminently.

“With climate change at the heart of all our decisions, the centre will be low carbon, have solar PV and air source heat pumps and will be an asset to the community, bringing tog/ether other services to make a real hub for Clay Cross.

Clay Cross Town Board Deputy Chair and North East Derbyshire District Council Deputy Leader, Cllr Charlotte Cupit said, “We are delighted to get the go-ahead for this amazing facility for all the community to enjoy. We listened when you said you wanted a new facility and this will be just that and more with other partners involved and it will be a real hub for the community for years to come.

Julia Goddard, Senior Business Development Manager at Alliance Leisure said, “Alliance Leisure’s role in the project is to deliver a leisure and wellbeing facility that the local community can be proud of. Having delivered over 200 leisure developments across the UK we are bringing this expertise to our delivery of Clay Cross Active. Our team will be assisting at every stage of the project and look forward to seeing the new centre open in 2024.”

Whilst the site will be staying partially open, current leisure centre members can also use the other three centres in the district as part of their membership deal.

clay cross active

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

Chesterfield holiday lodge location ranked as the best in the UK by national holiday provider

A picturesque holiday lodge park on the outskirts of Chesterfield has come out on top as the best in the UK, according to national accommodation provider Pitchup.

The company has released a list of the ‘top 10’ best reviewed log cabin locations across the country, with Ernest’s Retreat sitting at the top of the list.

The site, which sits on a working farm in the picturesque North Derbyshire countryside received the most positive reviews on the Pitchup website. The company released the list to showcase the best romantic retreats for couples ahead of this Valentine’s Day.

Located just shy of the Peak District, the accommodation allows fans of Pride and Prejudice to easily reach the famous Chatsworth House, as well as a host of other literary landmarks.

It is believed that Jane Austen based Mr Darcy’s country estate, Pemberley, on Chatsworth House. This famous landmark was also featured in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, along with Haddon Hall, another stately home within 25 minutes of Ernest Estate.

On the website’s reviews section, Stephen B described Ernest’s Retreat as: “Beautiful, secure & very well maintained” giving special mention to the very warm welcome received by the hosts, the “spotless” washing up area and the “very comfortable” mattress, not to mention the ice cream honesty box!”

Dan Yates, Managing Director of Pitchup.com said: “Lodges and log cabins are a great luxury alternative for those seeking a holiday but who don’t want to spend excessively given the current climate. We’ve seen more people turning to this type of break instead of forking out for premium hotel or holiday let stays and the reviews show just how much they’ve enjoyed the experience.

“It’s such a huge achievement for this site to be so highly rated in this category. As with any type of glamping, lodge and log cabin customers have extremely high standards, often comparing their breaks with boutique hotels.

“Ernest’s Retreat not only offers beautiful views and impeccable cleanliness but also provides the perfect base for literary fans to enjoy the landscape that inspired Austen’s classic romance novel.”

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield and North Derbyshire at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Ernest’s Retreat – photo credited to pitchup.com

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield College praised by OFSTED in recent inspection

Chesterfield College has announced it has received a ‘good’ rating by education inspector OFSTED, following an inspection in late 2022.

The college was found to be ‘Good’ across all eight key areas of the key areas of inspection, and also received the highest possible rating for its contribution to meeting skills needs. Inspectors praised the college’s  ‘highly responsive’ approach to the ‘changing needs of the local community’.

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO at Chesterfield College, said: “We are delighted to achieve such a positive Ofsted inspection which is testament to the remarkable staff and students at Chesterfield College.”

“We are particularly pleased to achieve the highest judgement for our contribution to the skills agenda, one of only a handful of providers to be recognised for this across the UK.”

“This demonstrates the college’s ability to support our local businesses and communities to grow and prosper and confirms the positive relationships we have fostered to address the skills needs for the future.”

In the report, OFSTED praised learners at the college, stating:

  •  “Students’ work shows strong critical analysis skills and the ability to understand and analyse complex information.”
  • “Students demonstrate high levels of empathy and maturity in their practical work.”
  • “Many volunteer in valuable community activities. For example, students participate in a clothes swap that promotes sustainability and design clothes with school children that promote inclusivity.”
  • “Students explore each other’s opinions respectfully and can link British values to their subject.”

On standards of teaching at the college, OFSTED commented: 

  • “Teachers set clear expectations for students’ behaviour. Classrooms are calm and productive environments.”
  • “Teachers plan the curriculum effectively to gradually develop students’ and apprentices’ underpinning knowledge and skills”
  • “They use a variety of appropriate activities, provide clear explanations and design good-quality resources. Teachers make good links between theory and practical activities.”
  • “Teachers prepare apprentices well for their final assessments.”
  • “Teachers provide students with good-quality written or spoken feedback. Students understand their strengths and how to improve their work.”
  • “They benefit from a range of opportunities to keep their subject-specific knowledge and skills up to date, such as on-site visits and shadowing activities in industry. They use this experience to enhance the curriculum for students and apprentices. For example, carpentry and joinery teachers receive training on sustainable kitchen fitting and share this with students.”

OFSTED also recognised the college’s contribution to meeting skills needs:

  • “The college makes a strong contribution to meeting skills needs.”
  • “Leaders understand very well how they contribute to meeting the skills needs of the local and regional area. They establish several highly beneficial partnerships with relevant stakeholders to support economic recovery and regeneration.”
  • “Leaders and managers involve employers and universities very effectively in curriculum design and implementation.”
  • “Leaders are very proactive in seeking advice on new sector developments and the latest industry standards. They make good use of funding to update premises and purchase industry-standard equipment and resources to meet future skills needs. This equips students very well with the skills they need for their future careers.”
  • “Leaders are highly responsive to the changing needs of the local community, which is rightly valued by their partners. For example, managers quickly adapted the ESOL curriculum as a direct response to the growth of Ukrainian refugees in the area.”

On the support offered to learners, OFSTED said:

  • “Students and apprentices highly value the support and encouragement they receive from staff. Learning, engagement, achievement and progress (LEAP) mentors have a very positive impact on students. They help them to develop useful strategies to manage their physical and mental health.”
  • “Students and apprentices feel safe at college or at work. They have access to a wellbeing hub, where they can receive specialist advice and support. Staff are vigilant, and students and apprentices are confident that any concerns that they raise will be dealt with effectively by staff.”
  • “Students, including those with high needs, have access to a wide range of clubs and societies”
  • “Students with additional needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place to meet their needs. Teachers support students with special educational needs and/or disabilities who move from pathway courses into vocational courses well. They ensure learning support staff are consistent and that any ongoing support strategies are understood by teachers.”
  • “Managers ensure that students and apprentices have access to a wide range of help and support. They work well with local agencies and charities to provide this. Where referrals are made, staff record these in detail and take timely and appropriate actions to support students. The safeguarding team is diligent, reflecting on and developing approaches to supporting students and apprentices.”

In terms of progression and employment for srudents at the Chesterfield College, OFSTED noted: 

  • “Young people set career goals and plan how to achieve them. Apprentices often secure permanent roles following their studies. Adults develop valuable life skills or gain qualifications to help them progress to higher education. Students with high needs have clear progression routes to develop their independence or gain employment.”
  • “Leaders and managers plan the curriculum with a strong focus on progression and employment. For example, there are clear progression routes from entry level pathway courses to vocational courses. Students are well prepared to make the transition because of the subject taster sessions they complete.”
  • “Young people benefit from good opportunities to undertake a range of work-related activities. This includes work experience, guest lecturers, work-related projects and visits and trips. Students with high needs, who study vocational courses, benefit from these high-quality opportunities.”
  • “Careers staff work very closely with curriculum teams to help students, adults, apprentices and students with high needs understand the potential routes available to them.”

Find out more about learning in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/learning/

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

Julie Richards, CEO at Chesterfield College

 

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Green Arch Consulting advises banking regulator on sustainability

Chesterfield’s Green Arch Consulting is working alongside the Central Bank of Nigeria to help the organisation in its transition to a low carbon future.

The business’s founder, Emma Knight-Strong is a registered expert on sustainable finance and Green Transitions through the UK Governments “Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions” programme (UK PACT).

Funded by the UK’s International Climate Finance, the UK PACT programme has provided funding for projects and skill-shares across three continents since 2018.

In 2022, Green Arch Consulting undertook a review for the Central Bank of Nigeria to help them evolve the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles, which are a set of principles designed to accelerate the transition to a lower carbon, climate resilient economy.

In January 2023, the business was commissioned to undertake further work to progress the update and evolution of these principles in line with international best practice.

Emma Knight-Strong, who lives and works in Chesterfield, will be carrying out a series of virtual workshops with the Central Bank as well as external stakeholders within the Nigerian financial space. The results of the workshops will be fed into, and Green Arch Consulting will be advising on, the redrafting of the principles.

Emma, founder of Green Arch Consulting commented: “Sustainability is increasingly an imperative for businesses to consider – this is driven by increasing regulations and policies driving in that direction, the very real physical impacts that climate change is having on businesses and their supply chains, as well as an overwhelming shift in public opinion on the topic.

“The financial world is increasingly heavily regulated in this area, resulting in significant pressures on the businesses and assets that they finance to consider sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues in a way never before seen.”

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

Emma Knight-Strong Green Arch Consulting

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Chesterfield to host a packed programme of events in 2023

Residents and visitors are encouraged to ‘save the date,’ as details of a packed programme of events is coming to Chesterfield are announced for 2023 – including some exciting new additions.

Designed to provide fun and unique experiences for our communities, this year’s events programme will continue to support the town centre and the wider borough by encouraging people to spend more time in Chesterfield, while enjoying the borough’s award-winning parks.

Among the new Chesterfield events in 2023 is Eat in the Park – a two-day live music event hosted in Queen’s Park this summer. The event, which will include two stages full of entertainment for all the family and food vendors selling food from around the globe, will take place on 5 and 6 August 2023, with tickets on sale now.

There will be two stages, the main stage and the Buxton Brewery Tent stage, both with six acts appearing on each stage each day. There will be a mixture of tribute acts and local performers to entertain those attending, as well as entertainment for children with the performers singing a range of well-known children’s songs from TV and film.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Chesterfield is set to be a hive of activity this year, with a fantastic range of entertainment happening in and around the town centre, and in our award-winning parks.

“We’re delighted to welcome the Eat in the Park event as an exciting new addition to this year’s calendar. This took place in Buxton for the first time last year and was very successful, with just under 5,000 people attending the event each day – and we’re sure it will be just as popular in Chesterfield this summer.”

One of the Eat in the Park event organisers Jake Burnham explained: “We are extremely excited to bring Eat in the Park to Queen’s Park in Chesterfield – it’s a great town to hold the second event in and we can’t wait until August.”

The Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival is taking place on 22 and 23 July and will include a variety of food retailers, as well as a drinks marquee. Children at the event will also be able to enjoy the Bubble Magicians and other entertainment. There will also be music at the event from a few local bands too.

Councillor Kate Sarvent continued: “The Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival is a new edition to the event calendar too, this will take place in Queen’s Park in July and is free to enter.”

Now a firm favourite on the calendar, the popular Chesterfield Pride event will take centre stage at Stand Road Park on 23 July – with live music and acts throughout the day. The event is now recognised as the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s events programme is part of the Love Chesterfield campaign – launched in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to celebrate everything that’s great about the town, while supporting the trading ambitions of local retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.

Councillor Sarvent added: “As well as some new additions to our line up we’re also planning for the return of some of people’s favourite local events – including the Medieval Fun Day and the 1940s Market. It’s all about bringing Chesterfield to life, creating opportunities for people to make lasting memories, and to come out and show their support for our amazing local businesses.”

More details of each event will be published over the coming months, but key dates and details to note include:

Chesterfield Festival of Cricket – 11 June – 18 June

The Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council, returns to Queen’s Park this June. The event promises to be the biggest ever festival at the park with Derbyshire facing Yorkshire in the County Championship, starting on Sunday 11 June, before the Falcons take on the Vikings in Vitality Blast action on Sunday 18 June. Find out the latest information visit cricket.derbyshireccc.com/chesterfield-festival-of-cricket

Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival 22 – 23 July from 10.30am to 4.30pm

Being hosted in Queen’s Park for the first time. This event is free for the whole family to enter, and you can enjoy a range of food and entertainment throughout the weekend.

Chesterfield Pride – Sunday 23 July

Attend the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration at Chesterfield Pride on 23 July. This event is happening at Stand Road Park, Chesterfield, and will feature live stage show entertainment.  Find out more about the event and buy your tickets by visiting: www.chesterfieldpride.co.uk

Medieval Fun Day – Tuesday 25 July

The popular Medieval-themed fun day is returning to entertain the crowds on 25 July 2023 10am to 4pm in Chesterfield town centre.

Eat in the Park – Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August

Tickets are on sale now, to find out more about the event’s line up and to buy tickets visit eatinthepark.uk. If you have any questions about the event, please email info@eatinthepark.uk

1940s Market – Thursday 2 November

Crowds are expected to flock to Chesterfield to attend the 1940s market, a great event for all vintage fans. The event is taking place on 2 November, from 10am to 3.30pm to tie in with Chesterfield’s much-loved Flea Market.

Fireworks – Friday 3 November

Chesterfield Borough Council’s annual fireworks extravaganza is due to take place on 3 November and will be an event for the whole family to enjoy. Taking place at Stand Road Recreation Ground, Whittington Moor there will be a range of entertainment on the main stage – as well as the popular fireworks display.

Chesterfield Market and Christmas Lights Switch On – Sunday 19 November

Looking forward to Christmas 2023, the festive Christmas lights switch on is taking place on 19 November from 12 noon to 6pm and will be a great free afternoon out for all the family.

To keep up to date with all of the latest Chesterfield events in 2023 taking place around the borough visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events

Medieval Fun Day 2022

 

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Brand new Tractor Fest event coming to Chesterfield

Around 100 tractors will be on display at a new family-friendly festival coming to Chesterfield this Spring.

Tractor Fest is being organised in support of Ashgate Hospice and is set to take place at the Storforth Lane Industrial Estate in Hasland on 26th March.

From vintage vehicles to modern machinery – there will be a huge collection of tractors on display as well as fun activities, including mini tractor driving, colouring, arts and crafts and more.

The event, which is being held by Harold Lilleker & Sons Ltd in support of the hospice, costs £3 for adults and is free for children under the age of 11.

Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We are delighted to be bringing Tractor Fest to Chesterfield this March in conjunction with Harold Lilleker & Sons.

“We’re so excited about this event as it promises to be a super fun day out for family and friends across North Derbyshire and beyond. Whether you’re a self-confessed petrol head or just looking for a day out with the family, there’ll be plenty on offer to keep you covered.

“The event will be taking place at our retail and fundraising headquarters in Hasland; so once you’ve finished browsing the engines on display, you can pop into our furniture store and clearance shop for a spot of shopping or stop by Ashgate Coffee Co for a cuppa and a bite to eat!”

All proceeds from Tractor Fest will help fund vital care for patients and families who need the care of the hospice.

The charity must raise £8 million each year so it can continue providing palliative and end of life care to people across North Derbyshire.

Pre-purchased tickets are not needed for the event and the entry fee can be paid on the gate.

The event will be taking place between 10am and 3pm. Its location can be found by searching S41 0QD into a satnav.

Any owners of a tractor or other farming vehicles who would like to showcase their vehicles is invited to contact the hospice directly to arrange this.

To find out more about Ashgate Hospice’s Tractor Fest head to the charity’s website at www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/tractor-fest

Alternatively, supporters can contact the hospice’s fundraising team on communityfr@ashgatehospice.org.uk or by calling 01246 567250.

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.

tractor fest 2

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Growth for Chesterfield businesses with new appointments and promotions

Several Chesterfield businesses have announced growth, strengthening their teams with new additions and promotions in recent months.

Companies in the digital, legal and professional services sectors have taken on new personnel or promoted from within, showing strong local development despite the tough economic climate nationally.

Hear from our businesses below on how they have bolstered their teams, which includes Central Technology, Bridge Help, Shorts and BRM Solicitors.

Central Technology announces new Managing Director and CEO

rob and ian announcement Central Technology

In order to support its continued growth plans and the development of its national branch network, Central Technology has announced a restructuring of the board team. Rob Longden is set to take over from Ian Snow as Managing Director, whilst Ian will move into a newly created CEO position.

Central Technology has achieved consistent year on year growth over the last 12 years and this change will enable that growth to further accelerate in line with current targets.

Rob has been with Central Technology for 6 years and has spent that time within the sales, operations and service delivery teams, most recently as Commercial Director. Rob has over 30 years of IT industry experience within both SME and corporate sectors developing, implementing and managing service delivery teams, ITIL frameworks and driving service excellence through process and operational controls.

Ian’s move to a full-time CEO role will see him focus on the strategic development of the business and ensuring the exceptionally high levels of customer service are maintained. This new role will draw on his past experience at Deloitte and as a Director at two high growth, market leading lift installation and maintenance businesses.

Ian commented: “Our goal was always to get CT into a position where Rob could take over as Managing Director and utilise his vast industry knowledge to help the business achieve its full potential. I am delighted we have reached the point where we can put this plan into action.”

Rob commented: “It is one of the proudest moments of my professional career to lead this tremendous company and the talented people within it, as well as being able to ensure successful outcomes for our valued customers.

“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and work alongside our team and customers for a number of years. I believe it is this business experience coupled with my industry knowledge that puts me in a unique position to drive Central Technology forward. I am truly excited to see what we can achieve together in the coming months and years.”

Bridge Help makes senior promotion

Kate Snodden Bridge Help

Chesterfield’s commercial finance specialist, Bridge Help has promoted Katie Snodden to the newly created role of Head of Sales.

The promotion recognises the significant contribution Katie has made to the business since she joined as a Business Development Manager in 2021.

In 2022 alone Katie, who lives in Chesterfield, secured more than £8million worth of loans for brokers throughout England and Wales. In her newly created role, she will now lead Bridge Help’s team of Business Development Managers in growing the company’s loan book which it aims to double in 2023.

Chris Sellars, CEO and General Counsel of Bridge Help said: “Katie has built some amazing relationships across the industry, all whilst taking on additional responsibilities within the company. Her appointment is integral to our growth plans for next year and she is absolutely the right person for this role.”

Katie added: “I am thrilled to take on this exciting role. One of the many reasons I joined Bridge Help was the opportunity to grow my career and skillset within the business.”

Katie joined the bridging finance sector from the transport and logistics sector having previously worked within financial services for a large, chartered accountancy firm in London. Her appointment at Bridge Help signalled her return to the financial services sector, which she describes as her ‘first love’.

To further support the firm’s ambitious growth plans, at the end of last year, Bridge Help joined NACFB, the largest trade association for commercial finance brokers in the UK.

BRM Real Estate team strengthened by appointment of new Director

BRM Shoots Chesterfield and Sheffield Employment team

Image Copyright Paul David Drabble

Regional law firm BRM Solicitors has appointed experienced Real Estate Director George Thomson and Paralegal Georgina Kassim to support its clients in Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

Newly appointed Director, George Thomson specialises in agricultural and commercial property and has previously worked with a range of clients from large public sector organisations to smaller owner-managed businesses.

A strong background in agricultural property work enables George to support farmers, agricultural land and property owners, and other rural businesses in all of their property and land transactions.

George said: “I am delighted to re-join BRM as a Director during an exciting period of growth and look forward to contributing to the firm’s continuing success and expansion in the region.”

The team has also welcomed paralegal Georgina Kassim. Georgina will be working alongside George in the Chesterfield office.

Georgina said: “This is an exciting new role with a forward-thinking law firm and I am looking forward to working with the current and new clients”

Sanjeev Batra, Head of Chesterfield Real Estate said: “These recent appointments will help support our growth strategy and ensure the continued high-quality service that we already provide to our clients. George is a highly-skilled lawyer, and I am happy to add his experience and knowledge to our team.”

Shannon Wilson joins Shorts’ Radius team

shannon-wilson-radius

The Shorts team says it is thrilled to have welcomed Shannon Wilson to the Radius R&D Tax Reliefs team. Shannon joins Radius as a Manager, adding further expertise and experience to our specialist R&D tax team.

Shannon joins Shorts after 4 years as a specialist R&D Tax Consultant at a major professional services consultancy firm. Prior to this, she achieved her bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Chester, followed by a master’s degree in Financial Management from Sheffield Hallam University.

On joining the firm as part of the Radius team, Shannon said: “It’s always nerve-racking starting a new job, but I’ve had such a warm welcome from everyone I have met so far. In the short time I’ve been here, everyone has truly made me feel part of the team. I look forward to seeing how I can develop my career further with such a forward-thinking and well-established company as Shorts.

“Shorts has already offered me the opportunities to further expand my skills, knowledge, and capabilities through getting stuck into, not only the preparation of R&D claims but also the internal side of things – demonstrating a culture of openness and the acceptance of new ideas from employees to continually grow the business.”

Scott Burkinshaw, Tax Partner and Head of Radius, was delighted to welcome Shannon to the team: “Radius is built around deep expertise, a proactive ethos, and a passion for great client service. Shannon brings all of this to the Radius team, and I have no doubt she will excel at delivering great service and advice for our clients.”

Central Technology, Bridge Help, BRM Solicitors and Shorts 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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New £750,000 walking and cycling route announced for Staveley and Markham Vale

A new walking and cycling route is set to be developed in Staveley, which will connect Markham Vale to the existing cycle route in the town.

The £750,000 investment is part of a wider £7 million fund announced by the government, which will improve a number of areas across the East Midlands region.

The funding which has been given the green light is part of an early investment offered to our area as part of devolution negotiations. It is not dependent on devolution proposals going ahead.

It is part of £18 million on offer from the government to the region for investment in different projects supporting local priorities, which relate to housing, the environment, infrastructure, skills, and transport in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham

The programmes which are being funded are:

  • £750,000 for a new cycling and walking route in Derbyshire, a 1¼ mile link connecting Markham Vale to the existing cycle route in Staveley.
  • £1.5 million for the new roundabout on the A6 at Fairfield in Buxton, Derbyshire, allowing access to housing development land. The roundabout provides access to sites for 461 new homes, including 30% classified as affordable. It also brings work to an area of social deprivation. This work has been completed, with the funding which has just been approved going towards the cost.
  • £1.5 million for a new growth through green skills. The investment will enable the creation of a new £5.4 million flagship skills centre and low carbon demonstrator in our region, to be operated by West Nottinghamshire College, as well as two electric minibuses for getting students to and from the site, to support the growth of a future low carbon economy as we work towards net zero.
  • £2 million for a new long-term private rental scheme to address homelessness in Nottingham City and Derby City and reduce the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for housing.
  • £1.22 million for more affordable housing in Derby city, where there is currently a shortage, to provide 15 extra social houses to be let at an affordable rent. It will mean less reliance on temporary bed and breakfast placements and shorter waiting times for longer-term accommodation.

Other regeneration and net zero projects are also in the pipeline, with decisions on these expected soon.

Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council have been working with the Government on devolution plans including a package of local powers and funding worth £1.14 billion, from 2024. If the plans go ahead, it would also mean a new regional mayor.

The leaders of the 4 councils signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at Rolls Royce in Derby. Since August, the councils have developed a more detailed proposal, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area. The proposal was the subject of a public consultation, which took place from 14 November 2022 to 9 January 2023.

Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “The approval of these projects is a solid example of the benefits that devolution are bringing to our region.

“These schemes will make a measurable difference to people’s quality of life through opportunities to gain new skills, environmental and health benefits from walking and cycling, better housing and new infrastructure.

“This is the East Midlands levelling up, and finally getting the benefits that we have missed in the past.”

Devolution would mean a new guaranteed funding stream for our region of £38 million a year over a 30-year period. Covering Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham, the devolved area would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one of the biggest in the country.

The devolution deal includes an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land and control over a range of budgets like the Adult Education Budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

The regional mayor would lead a new combined authority, which would include representatives from existing local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

Devolution would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

The public consultation on devolution, open to residents, businesses, community groups and other organisations, took place from 14 November to the 9 January.

 

Markham Vale Staveley

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Superior Wellness launches new Platinum Spas Deluxe Range

Chesterfield hot tub manufacturer Superior Wellness has launched a range of new products, which are set to be unveiled at the UK’s leading pool, spa and wellness show today.

The Platinum Spas Deluxe Range boasts premium features and upgrades – introducing the Tahiti, Refresh, Happy, Palma and the brand new all seater Seville.

With a brand-new look and feel the Deluxe range has changed with a more aesthetically pleasing design with the curvature of the acrylic. Designed with comfort in mind the seats are now sculpted and shaped around your body.

For a cleaner look the control panel is now solely located on one side without the distraction of other components and features. Featuring more modern and premium looking side panels complete with an LED Platinum Spas logo the new models are certainly more stylish.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director said: “The Deluxe range now includes the award-winning energy efficient insulation Platinum Premium Shield. This is designed by the Superior Heatlock Insulation Process which provides a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs.

“With a focus on innovation, the latest technology and an abundance of features, the new range includes a number of improvements.”

The jets and diverters have been upgraded promoting a better hydrotherapy massage.

The audio system has also improved with brand new speakers which are located on top of the acrylic rather than on side panels, giving the Deluxe range a more modern look and feel.

The hot tub cover is now fabric instead of vinyl. We’ve also increased the overall thickness of the cover providing greater insulation and creating energy savings.

The new deluxe range has also been CEC tested which shows the commitment to being more energy efficient. The circ pump has also been upgraded to a new circulation pump, which is much quieter and more energy efficient.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director at Superior Wellness: “We are very excited about the launch of the new Deluxe range.

“The Seville hot tub is brand new in the range and an all seater spa.  All seater hot tubs are very popular, particularly in the US. They are perfect for families and friends who want to spend time relaxing and enjoying the hot tub together.”

“We always listen to feedback from our customers and partner network to help inform our decisions on innovation.”

The Platinum Spas brand continues to innovate every year with new models being introduced to ensure they offer the very best in technology and design, with a wide choice to suit every budget.

For more information on becoming an authorised Platinum Spas partner or would like to find your nearest Platinum Spas showroom, visit the Platinum Spas website today.

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

superior wellness exterior

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Derbyshire and the Peak District promoted to the world at major travel events

Derbyshire and the Peak District has been promoted to the world at three major travel events last week.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the delights of the destination to thousands of consumers and travel trade buyers at events in Dublin and London to showcase the area’s tourism offer.

As international travel begins to increase, the area’s official destination management organisation has been working hard to keep the Peak District and Derbyshire front and centre in the minds of potential visitors and the world’s leading travel trade operators.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire showcased the destination to an estimated 40,000 visitors at Ireland’s biggest annual travel exhibition, the Holiday World Show, in Dublin and also met with key international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event and the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, both held in London.

While capturing demand from the rise in domestic staycations has been a key part of their recovery marketing efforts, keeping international markets warm has been just as important, and the Holiday World Show (27th-29th January) was the first large-scale opportunity the organisation has had since the pandemic to promote the Peak District and Derbyshire to overseas visitors and travel trade buyers.

Visitors to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire stand were given information on the destination’s vibrant tourism offer and had the chance to taste quality local produce with whisky samples from Ambergate-based White Peak Distillery. Visitors also had the opportunity to win tickets to Chatsworth, an iconic cultural attraction for international tourists.

In a further boost, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the destination to international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event on 26th January before meeting with overseas tour operators and travel trade buyers at the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, in partnership with UKinbound and the European Tour Operators Association (EOTA), on 27th January.

The events provided a valuable opportunity to forge new relationships with key travel trade decision makers and promote bookable product – ranging from group accommodation to sustainable experiences – to hundreds of international buyers.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Increasing international travel to the Peak District and Derbyshire is crucial for the recovery and growth of the visitor economy. Being part of these important face-to-face events helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for both international visitors and key travel trade buyers, inspiring visits from overseas markets which are continuing to build their confidence about returning to the UK again.

“There are lots of potential opportunities for the area to benefit from some big events happening in 2023, with international visitors expected to take a keen interest in both the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool and King Charles III’s Coronation, which gives us plenty of reasons to shout about the Peak District and Derbyshire as a must-visit holiday destination.”

Hot on the heels of these successful events, the organisation is also registered to attend VisitBritain’s flagship event ExploreGB, which brings together hand-picked international buyers from over 30 markets and the best of the UK travel trade.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s work to increase international visitor numbers is in line with its key aims to drive visitor spend, boost overnight stays, and extend the tourism season.

Inbound tourism has been identified as a key driver of recovery and economic growth and VisitBritain predicts international visits to the UK will total 35.1 million in 2023 (86% of 2019 levels), with a spend of £29.5 billion (104% of 2019 levels).

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire is a committed member of UKinbound, a trade organisation that represents the UK’s inbound tourism sector. Tourism businesses interested in working with the travel trade should contact industry@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Peak District and Derbyshire promoted in London and Dublin

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Peak District Highland Games recognised with national award

A major event in North Derbyshire, which attracts thousands of visitors each year has scooped a prestigious national award. The Peak District Highland Games, hosted by Matlock Farm Park and Man Beast Strongman Events won the ‘Best Event ‘ prize at the 2023 National Farm Attractions Network awards.

The coveted ceremony shines a light on farm parks all over the country who have membership with the highly-regarded organisation.

Lotty Hawkins, Assistant Manager at Matlock Farm Park commented: Matlock Farm Park is just thrilled to win the Best Event award from NFAN, with such strong competition from the best farm parks in the land.

“There’s such a large amount of preparation in the build up to the day, compared to other events we host, for instance setting up extra catering and stalls, grandstand seating, organising sponsors, promotion including our big social media prize giveaway campaign and more, but it is entirely worth it because it is such a special and unique event.

“Not only is it the farm park’s flagship event, but it’s a key Summer event for the region, gaining more of a following each year. Our team work so hard on the day, but they really enjoy the camaraderie of it all!

“It’s all with thanks of course to the super Man Beast organisers and athletes with their planning and delivery. Each year the strong men and women blow us and the crowd away by going the extra mile with all their might in events such as the Eight Tonne Tractor Pull, Tossing of the Caber and Peak Dinnie Stone Challenge. The children spectators in particular feel so inspired watching the athletes do their very best and of course, they love having photos taken with these real life ‘superheroes’.

“The wonderful, cheering spectators who come to enjoy the day with us really make the event special and we would like to thank everyone who supports Matlock Farm Park and The Peak District Highland Games.”

Andy Picken, Founder of Man Beast Strongman Events commented: “We are immensely proud that the Peak District Highland Games has won this prestigious award.

“Together with Matlock Park, Man Beast Strongman Events have created a truly unique national event combining the sport of strongman with the classic Highland Games for the Peak District National Park.

“The Athletes train throughout the year for these games, not only to chase the win but also entertain the amazing crowd and we thank every single one of them for the  commitment and performance they bring each year.”

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

Peak District Highland Games Tug of War 873

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

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