DRIIVe rail innovation centre completed ahead of opening
Construction of a landmark rail innovation and training centre in Staveley has been completed, marking a significant milestone for Chesterfield’s rail sector development.
The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, will open later this year and will create new jobs, training opportunities and research facilities for the rail industry.
Delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council, the state-of-the-art facility was constructed by contractor Stepnell.
Designed as a flagship destination for the rail industry, DRIIVe will provide modern classrooms and training spaces, specialist research and development facilities, including a digital laboratory, and high-quality commercial workshop space.
The project forms part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal programme and has also received support from the East Midlands Combined County Authority.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:
“It’s fantastic to see work on the construction of DRIIVe now complete. This has been a long-standing ambition for our council, and its delivery strengthens Chesterfield’s position within the rail sector.
“DRIIVe is a unique facility that not only provides space for businesses to undertake vital research and development, including cutting-edge digital innovation, but also creates new training opportunities for local people. This will help us attract high-value employers to the area while ensuring our residents gain the skills and qualifications needed to secure high-quality jobs in the industry.
“Partnership has been at the heart of DRIIVe and this spirit of collaboration will continue. By working with businesses and industry experts we can ensure that this project will deliver for our community. I’m looking forward to meeting the first learners when they start on site later this year.”
DRIIVe is being delivered in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, which will manage the facility on a day-to-day basis.
Mervyn Allcock, General Manager of Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Board Member of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:
“This is a project of national significance for the rail sector, and we are so proud to have this fantastic facility here at Barrow Hill. It will help improve our commercial offer and strengthen our position in the industry.”
“These state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities will greatly benefit the area by helping to attract new businesses and providing local people with the skills they need to build a great career in the rail sector.”
The centre will support a network of specialist training providers, offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.
As well as supporting future skills development, DRIIVe will also provide a base for rail supply chain businesses, giving companies access to the latest research, innovation and collaboration opportunities.
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands and Chair of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, said:
“This isn’t just a new building, it’s a real opportunity for local people, offering them more chances to train, learn new skills and move into well-paid jobs right here in the region.
“By backing projects like this, we’re making sure innovation works for communities, helping people build their future, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the East Midlands as a place where the rail industry can grow and thrive.”
Funding for the project has primarily been provided through the Government-backed Towns Fund programme, which awarded £25.2 million to support regeneration projects across Staveley.
For more information on DRIIVe and other local developments in and around our area, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments
Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Chesterfield Borough Council and Stepnell are three of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
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