Love Chesterfield

North Derbyshire Radio displays impressive growth in listeners

A Chesterfield-based radio station has announced a rapid growth in listeners since its launch last year.

North Derbyshire Radio has been broadcasting online since March 2021, and has grown from strength-to-strength, with more than 100,000 listeners tuning in over the last two months.

The latest statistics unveiled by the radio station also show that each listener has tuned in for an average of six hours during that time, with a total of 600,000 listening hours recorded during that period.

Station Controller, Naz Premji launched North Derbyshire Radio in 2021, having gained a wealth of experience at stations such as BBC Radio 5 Live, former Chesterfield-based station Peak 107 FM and reporting for the BBC’s Final Score show on television.

He commented: “We are delighted with our growth over the last 18 months since we launched. We provide local news, local sport and great music with presenters you all know and love.”

“This is just the beginning and we have more plans to make our station even better.”

North Derbyshire Radio is home to several local presenters who have a great knowledge of the area, such as Chris Birks, Claire Salanyk, Andy Liversidge and Nigel Turner. Listeners can also tune into the familiar voice of Sean Goldsmith, who presented Peak 107 FM’s breakfast show for several years, along with working at a host of well-known stations across the UK.

The station covers the latest local and national news, local weather reports, coverage of North Derbyshire’s sporting action, and music from the 1970s to the present day.

It is available online at www.northderbyshireradio.com and on the North Derbyshire Radio smartphone app, along with smart speakers, smart TV’s via Roku TV and Fire TV and on Freeview Channel 277.

Businesses wishing to advertise on the station can get in touch via email at: sales@northderbyshireradio.com.Chesterfield Champions can take advantage of a special offer.

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

Naz Premji, Station Director, North Derbyshire Radio

 

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City Taxis return as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

City Taxis are returning as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, including reprising their role as Title sponsors of the City Taxis Fun Run which takes place on the 10k race day 16th October 2022.

The Fun Run forms part of the race day activity, and anyone can take part on the 1Km course around Queens Park which will start after the 10k race has left the park at 10 am.

Sacha Skinner, Marketing Manager of City Taxis, said: “We are so excited to be back sponsoring the City Taxis Fun Run at the Chesterfield 10k for 2022.

“The event last year was a fantastic day where we saw so many inspirational people taking to the course with the aim of helping worthy charities and the incredible work they do.

“We are so proud to support the event, helping to raise its profile and in turn benefit the charities. It’s important to us that we give back to the communities we serve, and this is such a great event to do that.

“City Taxis will also be returning as sponsors of the Fun Run, which sees families and children get involved in the action. You can even bring the family dog!”

John Timms, Event Director, added: “Last year City Taxis were integral to the success of the event, from providing the lead vehicle to their sponsorship of the City Taxis Fun Run.

“It’s a much-loved part of the race day, and we welcome everyone to join in. It’s open to all regardless of age or ability and you will go home with a well-earned specially designed medal.”

Once again City Taxis are providing the lead vehicle for the 10k race. This year the vehicle is a hydrogen-powered second generation Toyota Mirai with water as its only emission. Not only will it contribute to the event being more environmentally friendly but will also benefit the crowd of runners behind the vehicle.

Runners in this year’s 10K are fundraising in support of local charities including Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

Entry is just £5 for the City Taxi Fun Run on race day at the race information point, or you can register in advance for the Fun Run or the 10K at www.chesterfield10K.com

City Taxis and Redbrik 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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Great2Work launches initiative giving businesses the chance to trial co-working space for free

Chesterfield’s Great2Work has unveiled the launch of a new ‘golden ticket’ scheme, giving local businesses and start-ups the chance to try out their innovative co-working space.

The team at Great2Work are giving out a Golden Ticket to 10 individuals, which is a free Day Pass to use the co-working space in Chesterfield. Once that person has used it, they then pass it on to someone who they know that can then use the free Day Pass.

Based at Hayfield House on Devonshire Street, the vibrant community at Great2Work enjoys access to a wide range of amenities, support services, meeting rooms, networking and social events as part of their flexible membership plans.

Ideal for local small businesses and entrepreneurs, the professional and friendly environment and services help people connect, collaborate and work productively.

Lynne Pope, Social Media and Content Specialist at Great2Work commented: “Our ethos at Great2 is to nurture small businesses – to help them grow by providing office and meeting space alongside business support services. This Golden Ticket promotion raises awareness of who we are and how we can help by encouraging local businesses to come into our coworking office and to meet our talented team.

“Introducing more businesses to our community and to coworking will undoubtedly lead to opportunities that otherwise may not have happened – we know small businesses often grow through building their networks and relationships.

“Plus, it’s always nice to get a freebie – especially from a friend or someone you know and trust. We’re asking people to pass on the tickets once they’ve used them to people in their networks that they think will benefit from a day at Great2Work”.

Great2Work  supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Regeneration Award shortlist announced for Love Chesterfield Awards 2022

Construction projects across Chesterfield are paving the way for the regeneration of the borough, but only one will be named the winner of the Regeneration Award at the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management.

Badger Croft, Belvedere House and One Waterside Place have all been selected as finalists for the Regeneration Award – sponsored by BHP Accountants – for their innovative developments.

Badger Croft is described as the ‘largest council housing development in a generation’ in Chesterfield. The £4.1m development has seen 21 brand-new properties constructed on the former Brockwell Court site in Loundsley Green.

The development is providing families with modern homes that have been designed for a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Increased levels of insulation throughout and electric vehicle charging points have been installed on properties with driveways to support lower carbon transport options.

Gary Holmes, Contracts Manager at Henry Boot Construction commented: “We are delighted that Badger Croft has been shortlisted for the Regeneration Award. We have a long-standing affinity with Chesterfield; we’re based just up the road in Dronfield, and a lot of our people were born or live in Chesterfield.

“With Badger Croft, we have increased the supply of affordable homes available and transformed a former brownfield site, enabling 21 local families to move into their new homes. We have also worked hard to give back to the wider community by working closely with Holmebrook Conservation and Improvement Group to enhance landscaping works and boost biodiversity.”

Belvedere House Care Home, built by Crown Care Group and located on St Augustine’s Rd, provides care services to its residents and luxurious living accommodation. With 64 bedrooms and a range of facilities for residents to enjoy, including a cinema, tearoom, bar and brasserie, garden room, hair salon and extensive landscaped gardens.

The care home opened its doors earlier this year and has generated up to 50 jobs within the local area.

Shiva Sheikholeslami, Care Home Manager at Belvedere House commented on being part of the final three for the Regeneration Award: “This selection reaffirms that our brand-new care home has positively impacted the Chesterfield community. This means a lot to us; it’s humbling and reassuring.

“We feel positive and assured to witness businesses flourish, areas develop, and new life spread throughout the region. Through regeneration, Belvedere House looks forward to sustainable development and prosperity – we are excited and lucky to be able to experience this growth.”

One Waterside Place will be a landmark building as part of the £340 million Chesterfield Waterside development, creating jobs and modern, high-spec office space for businesses to occupy.

The office accommodation within Basin Square has been designed to a Grade A specification which incorporates BREEAM Very Good Rating, LED lighting and two passenger lifts. They will also provide cycle parking facilities on site, encouraging a greener commute to work.

Tom Swallow, Development Manager, Bolsterstone Group PLC, which is the company developing the Chesterfield Waterside scheme, commented: “It’s a really exciting time to be part of the regeneration projects within Chesterfield.

“I’m delighted that One Waterside Place is shortlisted for the Regeneration Award; this is a great news ahead of the building welcoming tenants later this year.”

The requirements for the award include either a single business or a collective of businesses that have supported or delivered high quality spaces through regeneration, refurbishment, redevelopment, or improvements to the built environment within a 6-mile radius of Chesterfield town centre.

Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group brings together business leaders of the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield.

The collaboration of the Property and Construction Group has allowed Chesterfield to thrive in its plans to develop the town, with new housing and residential developments to Grade A office spaces becoming available to help make Chesterfield the place to invest, work, live and play.

The 2022 Love Chesterfield Regeneration Award winner will be announced alongside the winners of 15 other categories at the black-tie event being held at the Winding Wheel Theatre on 12 October.

See the full list of 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

The 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Business Wise Accountancy and Tax, Chesterfield Borough Council, DBCP, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), , Elder Way, Great2, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, Minuteman Press Chesterfield, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and SMH Group.

 

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Approval granted on widespread improvements for Staveley Town Centre

Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet has given its approval to a new long-term vision for Staveley town centre and an initial £5m package of improvements, to be delivered over the next four years.

A public consultation which took place late last year showed strong support for the draft Staveley Town Centre Vision Master Plan, with 70% of respondents stating that they would be more likely to visit Staveley town centre if the Master Plan’s proposals were implemented.

The immediate improvements planned for Staveley town centre also received a high level of support from the public. These improvements include the regeneration of the Market Square, a shop front improvement scheme, a new and improved link to the canal, a new landmark pavilion building, an enhanced public realm and better signposting of facilities and attractions.

The initial package of improvements will be funded and delivered through the Staveley Town Deal and have been selected on the basis of their ability to improve the current town centre offer, uplift footfall, and prepare the ground for future investment. They are also deliverable within the set timeframe for the Town Deal.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy said: “We want Staveley to be a thriving town centre, that attracts both residents and visitors, encourages new business start-ups and supports existing retailers and businesses to flourish.

“We received lots of support for the ideas and proposals that we set out within the draft Vision Master Plan but we cannot deliver everything at once. Our aim is to make best use of the Staveley Town Deal funding to deliver an initial package of improvements that will help ensure Staveley has a bright future as a place to start, to stay and to grow.

“We will continue to work closely with Staveley’s retailers, businesses and residents to ensure we deliver the planned improvements to time and budget.”

The planned improvements, many of which are conditional on receiving planning consent, include the regeneration of the Market Square, which was supported by 77% of respondents to the public consultation. Elsewhere in the Market Square, the disused toilet block will be demolished and a landmark pavilion building with new commercial space created.

The Market Square will also benefit from new paving, lighting, planting, and benches, as well as improvements to Barnfield Close to encourage members of the public to shop and socialise. Ninety percent of respondents to the public consultation indicated that they would be more likely to visit the town centre if there was more space for festivals and events, which the planned improvements are designed to achieve.

The High Street will benefit from a rejuvenation of the public ream, and a shop front improvement grant scheme will encourage retailers to make changes to their store frontages.

There will also be a focus on increased connectivity both to the canal and wider Staveley area with improved signage, paths and cycling hubs. These improvements were supported by 74% of respondents to the public consultation. There will also be enhanced digital connectivity through the creation of a town centre wi-fi network.

As part of the process of developing the draft Vision Master Plan an independent review was undertaken by IntoPlaces Ltd., a team of three High Street Task Force experts. IntoPlaces Ltd. commented that the Vision Master Plan has the capacity to transform Staveley town centre into a vibrant hub by creating new and diverse spaces and enhancing the current offer. The planned improvements have also been supported by Derbyshire County Council.

The next step is for the Council to appoint a dedicated design team to finalise the planned improvements and seek planning consent, where applicable. More details about the future designs and how the community can get involved will be shared as soon as possible.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, added: “It will take time for us to finalise our plans and gain planning consent but we are committed to working with the community throughout the delivery process in order to ensure that we achieve the best possible outcome for Staveley town centre, its residents and businesses.”

Find out more about the Town Deal and the projects that have received funding on the council’s Staveley Town Deal page.

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Vicar Lane works with Chesterfield organisations to support local residents

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre will launch a major community-based campaign this autumn called ‘We Care’.

In a bid to highlight a whole host of local charities and support groups available to the community, Vicar Lane will set the stage for local residents to get the help they need, make meaningful life changes and connect with others to better cope with today’s a difficult times.

All events will be FREE to join throughout September and October and although some might need a registration, there will be no need to book.

On Saturday the 10th September, visitors can attend a ‘public living room’ in front of the large screen at Vicar Lane, where members of the public can chat to mental health workers about mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Mental Health Liaison Service and The Georgia Bird Foundation are very proud to be working in collaboration with SoBS Chesterfield, The Tomorrow Project, Mentell, Kakou and a number of amazing volunteers to hold this workshop that’s been inspired and supported by CALM’s Last Photo exhibition in London.

On Tuesday 13th September there’ll be an opportunity to get involved in a panel led discussion celebrating the collective impact that our local social enterprises bring to the community – putting people, purpose and planet first. Speakers include; Hannah Bowdler from Junction Arts, Sian Spencer-Bray from Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic, Jenny Raschbauer from Community Chesterfield and Barbara Tomasella from the University of Derby.

As the weeks go on, there’ll be pop ups and drop ins such as ‘Knit and Natter’. A local group that aims to welcome people who knit or crochet, whatever their level or skill, into a relaxed and calming environment with the opportunity to meet others. Plus, a mindfulness colouring workshop, hosted by Junction Arts. An award-winning community arts charity, focused on building confidence and improving wellbeing for all those who attend.

Events will continue to be announced and pop up around the centre so keep an eye out on https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/whats_on/ for a full list of confirmed activity over the coming weeks.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager, Vicar Lane said, “We’re proud to be able to work with local community groups and charities to highlight the ways in which people can get support across many areas from Mindfulness to Loneliness. The cost-of-living crisis, combined with a change in season can make this time of year challenging and so we welcome everybody to get involved with the sessions on offer over the coming weeks. As part of a wider project for us to keep the focus on such important topics, we are exploring ways to ensure our staff and tenants continue to get support and training in mental health awareness and we will keep our community up to date with progress we make.’’

Vicar Lane, Community Chesterfield, Derbyshire Voluntary Action, University of Derby, Junction Arts and Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic 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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The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is open under new ownership

Northern Tea Merchants’ iconic café based on Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, is open under new ownership and with a new name.

Kim Lamin is following a long-held dream of owning her own café and has now achieved this by taking on the reins at The Café at Northern Tea Merchants. Kim has been licensed to use the Northern Tea Merchants’ brand.

She said: “It’s always been my dream to have my own café so when the opportunity arose to run The Café at Northern Tea Merchants, I jumped at the chance. Having been a long-standing customer of Northern Tea Merchants for more than 15 years, I couldn’t say no!”

Kim has recruited three members of staff to help her run the new café – Brennan, Laura and Alida. They bring a wealth of customer service experience to their new roles.

She added: “I feel incredibly lucky to have the best team around me. Our aim with The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is to offer the best customer service, alongside great homemade food and, obviously, the best tea and coffee!”

As well as a wide selection of hot and cold drinks, The Café at Northern Tea Merchant’s now boasts a new menu which includes a range of breakfast, brunch and lunch options, including sandwiches, paninis, salads, home-made quiche, pate, jacket potatoes, cakes and Cream Teas. Afternoon Tea is also available if ordered in advance.

Welcoming Kim and her team, James Pogson, director of Northern Tea Merchants said: “Our shop and café have been a familiar site on Chatsworth Road since 2003 when we first opened. As a customer herself, Kim knows only too well the pleasure of sitting in our café enjoying one of our many teas and coffees while watching the world go by. Nothing beats it!

“We are delighted to have Kim onboard at Northern Tea Merchants. With her enthusiasm and passion, I have every confidence she will make a success of her new venture.”

The Café at Northern Tea Merchants is open Monday – Saturday 9am – 4pm (serving until 3:30pm), to book a table or order an Afternoon Tea, call 01246 232 600.

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

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Zero-carbon tourist transport network to be trialled in Chesterfield and the Peak District

A pioneering trial is taking place in the Peak District National Park where EV and hydrogen vehicles will run together between multiple destinations and attractions.

The trial is led by the Gateway at PEAK, a major new tourism resort in Chesterfield which has planning for 5,000 overnight beds and 2,800 carpark spaces.

The trial route connects eight key locations and attractions including Chesterfield Train Station, Chatsworth, and the Gateway development, which will act as a hub for PEAK Express when it is due to open in 2025. The route is designed so that there’s no more than 20 minutes between each stop, much like the gondola lifts found in international ski resorts.

Currently 85% of park visitors arrive by car and with interest in the great outdoors and the staycation market booming, the numbers are set to increase. Regional stakeholders are also keen for more diverse groups to access the park and to grow the local economy through tourism. However, this must be done in a sustainable way which doesn’t exponentially increase carbon emissions, threaten community wellness and prosperity, or damage the park’s biodiversity.

Once fully operating, PEAK Express at the Gateway alone, aims to remove 500,000 tourism journeys from the National Park, reducing CO2 emissions by 3.6 million kg pa and provide a national exemplar of sustainable visitor economy growth. The long-term ambition is to see multiple hubs located around the Peak District National Park boundary.

Andrew McCloy, Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, said; “We are delighted to be a stakeholder for this ground-breaking trial. Protecting the National Park for future generations and developing more sustainable ways for people to visit is high on our agenda. The PEAK Gateway site outside the National Park is an excellent location for a transport hub. The Peak Express service is a commitment to net-zero and will connect more of the National Park’s attractions without the need for a car, making them more accessible and spreading out the economic benefits of tourism.”

Hydrogen fuel and refuelling stations for the trial are being supplied by the world’s largest hydrogen producer, Air Products. The electric and hydrogen buses will be provided by Toyota where data will be gathered about each technology’s suitability for the varying terrain and refuelling needs. Jon Hunt, alternative fuels manager at Toyota (GB) said; “There is not one simple solution for zero-carbon mobility. That’s why this trial provides us with an exciting opportunity to trial both EV and hydrogen vehicles, assessing which is more suitable to different types of journeys across the park. We will also be looking at optimal ways to provide refuelling and great levels of customer service on board the vehicles.”

Andrew Lavery, Chief Executive of Chatsworth, a key attraction on the route said; “Derbyshire and the Peak District are world-class destinations for domestic and international tourists, and we are thrilled to be part of this trial.  Working with partners we are committed to reducing car journeys and supporting and promoting a more sustainable way of getting to and from the Peak District. There’s also a wonderful connection with hydrogen technology and Chatsworth – Henry Cavendish discovered hydrogen in 1766 and so, this venture is very interesting.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council praised the collaborative efforts of the project team saying: “The value of this partnership is clearly demonstrated when considering significant issues like climate change, which requires collective local commitment and action if we are to make a real difference, and we are delighted to be a key partner in this trial.

“Chesterfield has excellent road and rail connections, making it the ideal base to stay and explore the Peak District from – but we are committed to a net-zero future and this trial is an exciting step forward in how we think about our regional transport links. The trial of PEAK Express at the PEAK Resort, will make it even easier – and cleaner – for visitors to experience the UK’s first national park from neighbouring destinations, like Chesterfield.”

John Milligan, CEO of Milligan developers of the Gateway added; “The PEAK Resort site has been reclaimed from opencast, rewilded and we are investing in its future. PEAK’s proposition emulates the internationally successful ski resort model, providing a mixed range of hospitality, accommodation, retail, wellness and education facilities all served by a zero-carbon mobility service connected to 1,600 miles of trails and world class attractions in the Peak District National Park.

“Milligan has been developing iconic destinations for over 20 years. Our skills lie in curating the right mix of uses which will serve the community and visitors in a sustainable way bringing long term value. This trial is part of the development’s journey to zero and marks an important milestone for Gateway and the National Park.”

The trial has been running since 5th September and will finish on the 16th. The results will be published at the beginning of November. PEAK Express is planned to be fully operational as part of the Gateway at PEAK Resort, due to open in Spring 2025.

Find out more about PEAK at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/peak-resort/

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Chesterfield event technology company goes global

A Chesterfield company which provides customers with groundbreaking experiences has recently worked at a multitude of global destinations for big-named brands and agencies.

Noonah is an event technology company for brands and agencies, providing exciting experiences that maximise event engagement.

Last month, the company provided photo opportunities for Red Hot Chili Peppers in London and a 3-stop tour with Coldplay in London, Frankfurt, and Paris. With more dates added to the schedule, Noonah is set to deliver even more experiences at concerts in the future.

After opening their new LA Office, Noonah has provided event technology for various events and conferences in America. They created the ultimate fan experience for the Major League Baseball Sponsor, Hankook, at the MLB All-Star Conference in California, USA. Noonah provided a Mirror Booth with AR filters for fans, which fed into an eye-catching Tradeshow Mosaic,

Noonah also created a photo experience with a GIF Booth and Mosaic Wall at When We All Vote’s first-ever Culture of Democracy Summit. The event was attended by thousands of guests and featured keynote speakers such as Michelle Obama and Selena Gomez.

Lastly, the company provided numerous experiences for an enormous 4-day convention held in North Carolina, including 360 photo booths, green screen, and touch screen photo opportunities.

Closer to home, Noonah recently created the Love Chesterfield Mosaic, a community project consisting of hundreds of photos of people from across the local area. The artwork now sits proudly in the recently-opened Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. 

Alice Morton, Account Manager at Noonah commented: “We are excited to provide our services here and overseas and continue to put Chesterfield on the map as an excellent place for creative businesses.”

This month, they will continue to expand their business by providing tech for numerous events in locations such as Milan, Paris, and Barcelona. Find out more about Noonah and what they get up to next on their official website www.noonah.com

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

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Markham Vale hails record job figures as it supports region’s post-Covid recovery

470 jobs were created at Markham Vale last year in one of the largest ever annual totals recorded at Derbyshire County Council’s flagship industrial and logistics scheme near Chesterfield.

Markham Vale is a 200-acre joint venture development between property developer HBD and Derbyshire County Council. It is one of the region’s landmark schemes, attracting new businesses and creating thousands of new jobs.

2,702 new jobs have been created at the development to date, with the latest figures demonstrating its impact in driving investment and supporting the region’s post-Covid recovery.

Derbyshire County Council recently had its efforts recognised by Local Government Chronicle, being shortlisted in the Economic Support category in the upcoming 2022 LGC Awards.

Richard Hinds, Development Surveyor at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is a hugely successful scheme and plays an important role in supporting the region’s economy, which is more important than ever as the region recovers from the pandemic and the many challenges that brought.

“2021 was another strong year for Markham Vale – we completed two zero-carbon buildings totalling more than 300,000 sq. ft., Daher Aerospace moved into a new 55,000 sq. ft. unit, and a landmark deal was secured with Gridserve to create Derbyshire’s first EV charging station.

“We’re very proud of what our joint venture has achieved at Markham Vale to date and we look forward to welcoming more innovative, forward-thinking businesses to Derbyshire.”

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration Councillor Tony King said: “These figures are very reassuring and a strong sign that businesses are starting to recover from the pandemic.

“Markham Vale plays a key role in helping to deliver on our commitment to building a strong, diverse, and green economy by creating jobs for local people and attracting local, national, and international businesses.

“As well as welcoming several new businesses to the site last year including Gallery Direct and Daher Aerospace Limited, we saw sustainable packaging firm Smurfit Kappa expand to another unit and we’re looking forward to seeing Markham continue to grow and welcoming even more businesses to the site in the future.”

HBD and Markham Vale 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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Ambassador for Japan celebrates Derbyshire links and local produce at Chatsworth Country Fair

The Ambassador of Japan to the UK met with Derbyshire producers, artisans and craftspeople whilst celebrating Japanese links to the area during a visit to Chatsworth Country Fair on Friday 2nd September.

Ambassador Hayashi and his wife Dr Hayashi were welcomed to the popular three-day annual event by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, on a visit to mark 24 years since the twinning of Derbyshire and Toyota City in Japan.

During his time at Chatsworth Country Fair, Ambassador Hayashi visited the largest-ever Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace which showcased quality Derbyshire-made items ranging from arts, crafts and homeware to fine food and drink.

Now in its third year, the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace had been doubled in size for 2022 to support the post-pandemic recovery of local businesses – giving over 50 independent Derbyshire traders the opportunity to promote and sell their products to thousands of visitors from across the UK.

Exhibitors included Phil Sproson Photography, The Wirksworth Pottery Company, Shivering Mountain Gin, Crooked Pickle Co and The Original Paperstarlights, who supplied handmade lantern decorations that adorned the roof of the Marketplace.

The Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace is part financially supported by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project, which aims to support the growth of small and medium sized visitor economy businesses in Derbyshire.

Chatsworth Country Fair is widely regarded as one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor events, celebrating traditional country pursuits together with showground entertainment, quality trade stands and fun for the whole family.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We were delighted to mark the third successful year of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace with our biggest celebration of Derbyshire producers to date, and we were thrilled that both the Ambassador of Japan to the UK and the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire could meet some of our traders.

“As the industry recovers from the pandemic, it was fantastic to see so many artisans and craftspeople embracing the chance to come together to showcase the high quality and innovative products made here in Derbyshire.

“As well as being very popular with visitors, thanks to support from Chatsworth and our European Regional Development Fund project the Marketplace also gave producers the chance to exhibit at a nationally-renowned, large-scale event – supporting their recovery, fuelling growth and helping them to reach new audiences.”

Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Toyota City has brought thousands of jobs and huge investment to the county over the last 24 years.

“Increasing trade and boosting tourism are key priorities for the partnership so it was a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to experience what Derbyshire tourism and producers have to offer. And with another milestone anniversary ahead for the partnership next year, we’ll be strengthening our friendship with Toyota City further with a programme of events to build on our existing relationship and focus in on those key priorities to benefit both our economies.”

The Duke of Devonshire said: “As the most enthusiastic advocates of Derbyshire, we were pleased to welcome the return of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace to Chatsworth Country Fair. The region is fortunate to have many quality producers, artists and craftspeople and it’s fantastic to share these with an even wider audience.

“It was also our great pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to this year’s Country Fair, to help celebrate Derbyshire’s links with Toyota City and to experience a taste of what Derbyshire has to offer.”

More than 75,000 people flocked to the Chatsworth Country Fair over the weekend (2-4 September).

Stunt horses and daredevil riders from Atkinson Action Horses thrilled the crowds by demonstrating skills that have seen them star in blockbuster films and television shows including Peaky Blinders, The Midwich Cuckoos and Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’; while the Bolddog Lings FMX Display Team drew gasps with their gravity-defying motorbike stunts.

Star chefs Mary Berry, James Martin and John Torode and a host of top-flight Derbyshire chefs drew hundreds to their demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, while Country Fair President Phil Spencer held court in the Grand Ring. The television personality introduced an action packed programme including show-stopping entertainment from favourites such as a Spitfire flyover, a parachute display, Pony Mounted Games, music from massed bands and much more.

As honorary Country Fair President, TV presenter Phil Spencer performed his official duties, such as opening the show, as well as greeting visitors, performers and exhibitors: “It’s a real privilege to have been asked by the Duke and Duchess to stand as President this year. I love to be involved in communities and pastimes that help make the great British countryside all that it is so I’ve had a terrific few days sharing the experience among so many thousands of smiling faces.”

Chatsworth House and Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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