Author: Dom Stevens

Free brick and groundworks training to be provided at Chesterfield Construction Skills Hub

A new pilot aims to attract new entrants to work in the construction industry.

Chesterfield College Group has partnered with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to deliver the Access to Homebuilding pilot scheme to attract new entrants into the construction industry. The pilot scheme is the latest in a line of initiatives CITB has undertaken as part of its commitment to supporting the Government’s homebuilding target of 1.5 million new homes.

The pilot will see three different 4–6-week intensive courses take place on-site at the Construction Skills Hub at Mastin Moor, Chesterfield. Located within a live 650-unit housing development, the courses provide a unique opportunity for real-time learning and working directly with employers.

CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook report forecasts that about 150 extra bricklayers and groundworkers will be needed in the East Midlands each year for the next four years to meet demand.

The three courses on offer from October 2025 are:

  • A 4-week intensive Bricklaying course for anyone aged 18+ and unemployed
  • A 6-week Bricklaying Upskilling programme for Labourers (one day a week, must 18+)
  • A 6-week Groundworks Upskilling programme for Labourers (one day a week, must be 18+)

The 4-week intensive Bricklaying course is designed to give unemployed individuals aged 18+ hands-on skills and site experience with a clear pathway to working in the industry. Attendees will also have the opportunity to attain the industry-required health and safety CSCS card to enable them to start work on-site in industry.

The 6-week programmes for Labourers offer employers the chance to upskill their workforce with practical Brickwork and/or Groundworks training, equipping attendees with site-ready skills.

Danny Clarke, Engagement Director, England, at CITB said: “We are delighted to launch this partnership with Chesterfield College Group, these sorts of initiatives are vital to attract a diverse range of new talent into the construction industry and address the skills shortage.

“The average construction salary is nearly £7,000 higher than the UK average. So, if you want a well-paid, fulfilling career that teaches you valuable skills for life, then look no further than the construction industry.”

To find out more about the free courses on offer and to apply, visit https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/citb

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

50 independent retailers in Chesterfield

There are many great independent retailers in Chesterfield town centre and across the borough.

From clothes to records and from toys to special gifts, we are sure you will find something special from one of our friendly independent retailers!

Here is a list of 50 retail businesses to try. Click on the name of the business to be taken to their website and learn more.

Short on time and prefer to jump to a specific section? Click on one of the links below:

You can find more inspiration on shopping in Chesterfield here.

If you have experienced great customer service or found that unique gift? Make sure you leave a review or share a post on your social media and include #LoveChesterfield

Food and drink heaven in Chesterfield

Looking for tasty treats? Then try these independent retailers.

1. Cheese Factor – A family-run business trading for 50 years, offering 150 different cheeses from around the world in their town centre shop.

2. Brampton Brewery – Brampton is an award-winning brewery with a number of local pubs. Their beer seller shop stocks a range of alcoholic drinks to try.

3. Northern Tea Merchants – A tea and coffee lover’s dream. Over two million cups of their tea and coffee are enjoyed every week!

4. Hogg Norton – Award-winning independent producer and retailer of fruit liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages.

5. Jackson’s the Bakers – Fresh bread, pies and sweet treats to savour from this local family business, baking in Chesterfield for over 80 years.

6. The Savvy Baker – Delicious brownies & blondies for those with a sweet tooth, available in York House business centre or through delivery.

7. Street Spirit – Stock an amazing and unique range of gin, spirits and beer in their store.

Marvellous markets in Chesterfield

Chesterfield was granted its market charter in 1204, now you can browse a range of independent traders across the outdoor market and market hall.

8. Chesterfield Markets  – Home to a variety of independent traders in both outdoor and indoor markets, offering an array of unique products.

9. Steph’s Sustainable Stuff – Chesterfield’s first zero-waste shop based on our historic outdoor market.  Meeting all your low and zero-waste needs.

10. The Market Co – Organiser of the Chesterfield Artisan Market and champion of artisan sellers. Chesterfield Artisan Market takes place on the last Sunday of the Month.

11. Charles Hedley – Award-winning retailer of pre-owned luxury fashion located in Chesterfield Market Hall.

12. The Watch Box – Watch repairs and sales in Chesterfield Market Hall.

Finding the latest fashions in Chesterfield

From clothing boutiques to bridalwear, Chesterfield’s independent retailers will dress you with style.

Female retail fashion owner beside a rack of black and white fashion at Dotique, Chatsworth Road

13. Dotique – Independent clothing boutique, stocking a variety of well-loved designers.

14. Blanc – Leading independent womenswear retailer, based at The Glass Yard, selling a wide range of stunning clothes.

15. M’s Accessories – Boutique store located in The Yards in Chesterfield.

16. Little White Dress – Off the peg wedding store located on Chatsworth Road in Chesterfield.

17.  Dressed4U – Budget-friendly boutique catering for special occasions!

18. Love Too True – North Derbyshire-based online fashion manufacturer and retailer.

Clothing for him

From vintage to formal, night out to casual wear, Chesterfield’s independent retailers have got you covered.

Jeans on shelf at Chesterfield Retailer

19. Zebra – Well-established men’s retailer located near the Winding Wheel Theatre.

20. Rebel Menswear – Men’s clothing retailer located in the heart of Chesterfield.

21. Ingmans – Clothing retailer and cobbler based in Chesterfield town centre.

22. Brand Runner – Supplies the latest designer clothing and accessories at up to 80% off RRP!

23. Oliholpho – Boutique selling high-quality smart-casual clothing, with unusual brands not normally found on the high street.

Find that perfect gift in Chesterfield

Discover unique gifts for the special ones in your life.

Unique products and gifts including candles, soaps and cards on display in a Chesterfield shop

24. Shop Indie – Check out quirky, unique and independent gifts from the Vicar Lane store.

25. Libby’s Gift Shop – Libby’s is all about simple pleasures – enjoyable shopping with lots of unusual treasures in their gift shop.

26. Lucky Magpie Salvage – Over the years they have become incredibly knowledgeable in the world of unique finds and salvage. Supplying the likes of Pinewood Studios and assisting clients with stunning pieces for the home and business.

27. Huckleberry Willow – An emporium of design-led products, unusual gifts & home accessories.

28. StraightCurves– Offering a range of unique craft kits for the creative ones

29. Eclectic delights of Serendipity – From wax melts to leather bags, cards to jewellery, doggy goodies to art & craft you’re sure to find a gift for every occasion.

30. Curious Goods – Stocking a vast range of peculiar goods including crystals & gemstones, tarot & oracle cards, and incense & oils. Plus much more!

Something sparkly for yourself or someone special

Whether you are looking for fine jewellery for that special occasion or costume jewellery for everyday use. Chesterfield’s independent Jewellers have you covered.

Man showing two women a box of jewellery

31. Adorn Jewellers – Located in the Shambles, Adorn provides a range of unique jewellery and unusual wedding rings.

32. John Stevenson Jewellers – Established over 45 years ago, and still one of the most prestigious family jewellery businesses in Derbyshire.

33. C. W. Sellors – Located on Low Pavement in Chesterfield, C.W. Sellors is one of the UK’s leading independent fine jewellery and luxury watch retailers.

34. Stuart Bradley – Family-owned and run jewellers and gift shop situated right next to the Crooked Spire.

High street names supporting local

Don’t miss our shopping centres full of high street names as well as local independent gems.

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

35. Vicar Lane Shopping Centre – Discover lots of independent retail and food and drink businesses at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre.  They organise some great events as well including outdoor cinema on their big screen.

36. Waterstones Chesterfield – The national book chain holds a great range of books by local authors and regularly hosts signing events.

Time to relax – Music, bikes, games and more!

However you like to spend your leisure time, Chesterfield’s retailers will be able to help you.

Model at Geeks HQ

37. The Little Ark – Sustainable and eco-friendly toys and gifts for your little ones.

38. Geeks Headquarters – The perfect place to play trading card games, board games, roleplaying games and miniature games! They sell Magic the Gathering, Yu-gi Oh!, Pokémon and even more!

39. WD Models – The family-run supplier of model kits. Whether it’s planes, trains, or automobiles, there’s a vast supply for enthusiasts to buy or sell. And, they offer a model repair service to help bring your cherished models back to life.

40. Tallbird Records – Chesterfield’s longest-established record shop.  They sell new and old vinyl, second-hand CDs, record players, merchandise, artwork, books & other stuff!

41. Vanishing Point Records – Recently expanded independent vinyl store located in the Yards in Chesterfield.

42.  J.E. James Chesterfield – Located just off the Whittington Moor roundabout, J.E. James has been supporting people in Chesterfield to find the perfect bike for over 20 years.

43. Real Time Music – Perfect for every musician, find your latest instrument in the heart of Chesterfield.

Home and furnishings

Find the perfect accessories for your home.

Matt Cockayne Artist

44. Etienne Blinds – Located close on Sheffield Road, Etienne provides a vast range of made-to-measure blinds, curtains and accessories to suit every need.

45. Now and Then – Quality home decorations and furnishing store located on Chatsworth Road.

46. Matt Cockayne Illustration – Find beautiful prints for your home from local artist, Matt Cockayne Illustrations. Visit his studio at The Green in Hasland.

47. Delightful Decor – Explore handmade homeware and gifts, all made by British artisans. Furthermore, why not make the most of Delightful Decor’s bespoke picture framing and mounting service?

The best of the rest

There is such a diversity of retailers that we couldn’t fit them all into our categories.  So here are some more eclectic independents!

48. Hoods Florists – If you’re looking for the perfect bouquet, then you can head to Hoods Florists, based on Sheffield Road in Chesterfield.

49.  Barkworthy Dog Emporium – Everything you could ever need for your special pooch, unique handmade collars, healthy wholesome treats, birthday cakes, toys, bath goodies and even gifts for dog-loving humans!

50. The Glass Yard Speedshop – A haven for all things motorcycle-related, located at the Glass Yard.

Keep an eye out for our gift guides throughout the year with some unique items to purchase for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and more.

You will can find out about new opens, latest news, events and ideas for things to do in Chesterfield on our social media pages: Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions drive investment, innovation and collaboration across the region

Chesterfield’s business community continues to demonstrate its strength and diversity, with four Chesterfield Champions making headlines for their contributions to business growth, regeneration, and regional pride.

Mitchells Chartered Accountants and CMP Legal have successfully supported the sale of AGG Electrical Safety Testing to private investment firm Rose Street Partners. Founded by brothers Andy and Gavin Griffiths, AGG has grown from a local PAT testing provider into a nationwide facilities management business. The Chesterfield-based firms worked closely to ensure a smooth and tax-efficient sale, protecting the founders’ interests throughout.

Gavin Griffiths said:

“The collaboration between Mitchells and CMP Legal made what could have been a stressful process incredibly smooth. We felt protected by their professionalism and vast knowledge throughout.”

FHP Property Consultants, acting on behalf of Marroe Developments, are marketing Egstow View Business Park in Clay Cross, a major new industrial and trade counter scheme bringing four acres of previously vacant land back into use. Located just off Junction 29 of the M1, the site has already attracted national occupiers including Howdens, Screwfix and Starbucks. The development forms part of a wider mixed-use scheme and benefits from proximity to the £24.1m Clay Cross Town Deal regeneration programme.

Darran Severn of FHP said:

“The scheme is really starting to take shape and it will not be long until units are available for occupation. The location and prominence of the site is excellent, and this is evident by the calibre of businesses committing before practical completion.”

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, the region’s official tourism body and Chesterfield Champion, has launched a new campaign to boost off-peak tourism and support local visitor economy businesses. The initiative encourages year-round travel to the area, highlighting seasonal experiences and hidden gems across the Peak District and Derbyshire. The campaign aims to extend visitor stays and increase spend, helping businesses thrive beyond the traditional summer season.

BSP Consulting has played a key role in one of the East Midlands’ most striking new landmarks, a life-sized sculpture of a Lancaster Bomber titled On Freedom’s Wings. The structural engineering firm designed the steel framework, podium and foundations for the 29-metre-high installation near Norton Disney.

Carl Hilton, Managing Director of BSP Consulting, said: “This project has been the result of many people devoting their time, expertise, and energy to move it forward through each stage. It has been a true collaboration of professionals, all united by the desire to achieve something remarkable.”

These stories reflect the impact of Chesterfield Champions across sectors, from professional services and property to tourism and engineering, and showcase the collaborative spirit driving growth and innovation across the region.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield Borough Council Chief Executive announces retirement

Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, has announced he will be retiring at the start of May 2026, after eighteen years in the role.

Huw has been instrumental in developing Chesterfield’s £2 billion growth programme and championing the importance of local people being able to benefit from the jobs and skills opportunities that such growth creates.

He has reset the values of the council, delivered improvements across all service areas, including multi-million investments in sports and cultural facilities and introduced a demanding performance culture focused on results and success.

Dr Huw Bowen Speaking at the 2024 Chesterfield Investment Summit

Huw said, “Chesterfield is a very special place. It has been a privilege to serve the people of the town and borough, and my aim each and every day has been to improve Chesterfield and the quality of life of its residents.

“I feel very proud to have been part of the council’s improvement journey over the past twenty-three years and fortunate to have worked alongside so many dedicated councillors, talented staff and committed partners.

“I leave the council in a strong place to ensure that Chesterfield sits at the heart of the government’s planned reforms for how local government is organised in Derbyshire.

“It will be a sad day when my time at the council ends. Until then, I remain committed to working tirelessly on the council’s priorities and to ensuring a smooth handover to the new Chief Executive when they are appointed.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, commended Huw’s outstanding commitment to delivering excellent public services to Chesterfield’s communities.

Councillor Gilby said: “Huw has served the borough of Chesterfield with inspiring vision, determination and good humour for over 23 years and I can honestly say that – thanks to his exceptional leadership – the borough is a better place to live, work and visit.

“There have of course been challenges along the way, including the global pandemic and over a decade of austerity which has eroded local government budgets. But Huw has always remained focussed, and with an unparalleled passion for delivering the very best for the people of Chesterfield.

“During his time, Huw has forged excellent relationships throughout the council, with councillors and the workforce. He has also been a champion of strong partnerships, building valuable networks with partners across the borough and wider afield, including from the business and voluntary sectors, to ensure our ambitious plans are achieved.

“Huw will be with us for a further seven months, and in due course the council will move towards the appointment of a new Chief Executive, ensuring a smooth transition as we continue on our journey towards local government reorganisation in Derbyshire in the coming years.”

Dr Huw Bowen, Cllr Tricia Gilby, Mayor Claire Ward and Andrew Byrne at the East Midlands Pavillion at UKREiiF,

Huw was instrumental in the creation of Destination Chesterfield and has served as a board member over the last 15 years.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said, “I would like to thank Huw for his commitment to a place-led partnership approach to support economic growth and the people of the Borough of Chesterfield.  15 years ago, this led to the creation of Destination Chesterfield and since then, Huw has worked alongside other board members to develop an environment where the public, private and voluntary sectors are working together collectively for Chesterfield.”

“Huw’s expertise, ability to build strong relationships and his passion for the borough of Chesterfield have made the Destination Chesterfield Partnership stronger and contributed to its ongoing success.  The board look forward to continuing to work with Huw until May to shape the next phase of Destination Chesterfield and how we support the delivery of Chesterfield’s £2 billion regeneration journey.”

Huw will be showcasing Chesterfield’s £2 billion growth programme at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November – Find out more and book a place.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Property and Construction

Summit to spotlight how investment in Chesterfield is fuelling inclusive growth for the East Midlands

Business owners are invited to discover how Chesterfield’s ongoing regeneration is unlocking significant investment opportunities and driving inclusive growth across the region. 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit takes place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at the Casa Hotel. The event will provide an in-depth update on the transformative projects shaping the town’s future. It will highlight how regeneration is creating new opportunities for local people, businesses, and investors. 

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, will address the summit, sharing her vision and priorities for the East Midlands.

Claire Ward commented: “Chesterfield is part of our region’s ambitions for inclusive growth. By working together, we can ensure that investment benefits every community, creating new opportunities and a brighter future for all. I look forward to engaging with local businesses and partners at the summit.” 

Andrew Byrne, Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, will discuss what inclusive growth means to the Devonshire Group and how this is being delivered across their sites in the borough.

Andrew Byrne said: “Inclusive growth is about ensuring that everyone in Chesterfield can share in the benefits of regeneration. At Devonshire Group, we are committed to creating places that support local jobs, skills, and communities. The summit is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the progress being made and to invite more partners to join us on this journey.” 

A key feature of this year’s summit will be a panel discussion focusing on the East Midlands Investment Zone site in Staveley. The session will explore the unique opportunities and benefits the Investment Zone brings to the borough, including its potential to attract new businesses, create skilled jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth. Simon White from Tawnywood will join a panel to share insights on how the Investment Zone is supporting business expansion and innovation in Chesterfield. 

Organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with the Devonshire Group and Tawnywood, the event will showcase major regeneration projects across the borough.  Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council, will provide updates on the £2 billion of regeneration projects across the borough. 

There will also be a focus on activity in Chesterfield town centre.  This includes an update from Dominic Staniforth, Chair of  Chesterfield Town Board, and insights from  Amy Revell, Co-Founder of We Are Spaces, a commercial interior firm, which is refurbishing an office space in the town centre. 

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, added: 

“The Investment Summit is a fantastic opportunity to spread the word about all the incredible things happening in Chesterfield. I look forward to welcoming local businesses and investors to the summit and discussing with them how they can play a key role in Chesterfield’s future.” 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit is also supported by East Midlands Chamber and We Are Spaces. 

To see full event details and secure your place, please book online at:
https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/investment-summit/ 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Work begins on new bungalow development amid growing national demand

Construction is now underway on a new development of 17 high-quality bungalows in Wingerworth, designed exclusively for people aged 55 and over. The homes are being delivered by Chesterfield-based housebuilder and Chesterfield Champions, Stancliffe Homes, following planning approval from North East Derbyshire District Council.

The development, named Kingswood Park, will feature five distinct styles of two- and three-bedroom bungalows. Each home will be built to high energy-efficiency standards and finished to the premium specification Stancliffe Homes is known for. Interest in the scheme is already strong, with enquiries coming in before any formal advertising has begun.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Kingswood Park, said: “We’ve already had so many enquiries about when these new homes will be available to the market. Given the strong demand for our high-quality new build homes in the locality, we’re expecting these further homes to be hugely popular.”

The start of work at Kingswood Park comes as national research highlights a chronic shortage of bungalows across the UK. A recent survey by the HomeOwners Alliance found that 38% of homeowners aged 55 and over would prefer a bungalow for their next move. Yet figures from the National House Building Council show that bungalows made up just 1% of new home registrations last year.

Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance, said: “Our research shows that too many older homeowners feel stuck in homes that no longer work for them.”

Stancliffe Homes has built bungalows across many of its schemes consistently for the last seven years and recognises the growing need for suitable homes for the UK’s ageing population. The company notes that prioritising the construction of bungalows isn’t just about meeting demand, it’s about enabling older people to live independently, stay connected to communities, and free up larger family homes for younger generations.

The homes at Kingswood Park are designed to support independent living while reducing environmental impact. Each bungalow will include air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solar panels, EV charging points and other energy-efficient features. These homes not only support sustainable living but also help reduce energy bills and future-proof housing for changing needs.

By building bungalows in established communities like Wingerworth, Stancliffe Homes is helping older residents stay connected while enjoying the benefits of modern, manageable homes.

Discover more about living in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Inspiring the next generation of construction workers

Young people from across Derbyshire took part in an event which aimed to provide them with more information about the range of careers available in the construction industry and gave them the opportunity to try some of the skills needed.

During the two-day event at the Construction Skills Hub, the participants took part in a variety of activities including bricklaying, joinery, roofing, operating a mini digger, a tour of the Mastin Moor site and an interactive challenge where they needed to plan and construct towers using spaghetti and marshmallows. They also had the opportunity to speak with experts from the sector about opportunities in construction.

The event was organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, Action for Construction and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) with G F Tomlinson, Devonshire Group, Harron Homes, Drury Joinery, and Bowmer & Kirland supporting the event.

It was held at the Staveley Town Deal funded Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor, which provides an innovative approach to construction training with students studying on a live construction site, where they can gain both skills and experience in the sector.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management said: “It’s fantastic to see so many young people take part in this event which is a fun and engaging way of providing information on the roles available in the construction industry. It will give young people the experience they need to make informed decisions about their future and how they can have a great career in our borough.

“Collaboration like this between businesses, the public sector and education sector is crucial to providing relevant and up to date information for young people, and I want to thank all our partners who helped ensure this event was a success.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School – Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive at Chesterfield College, said: “Our construction skills hub is an innovative site for education, and we are delighted to welcome the eight schools to enjoy an invaluable experience here. Construction and wider practical skills are often under-represented in secondary curriculum, so days like today are crucial to show leaners the benefits of studying in a different way.

“A career in the construction industry is exciting, rewarding and can take you to see many parts of the world. This careers event will be one of many ways in which we showcase the benefits of studying in this industry. We strive to work with as many learners as we can and would welcome schools to contact us to join in on these experiences.”

Alex McClymont, Engagement Advisor for Derby and Derbyshire at CITB, said: “These events are something we get really excited for each time. Getting new people in to construction is a big challenge and one we’re addressing head on, alongside local partners. Groups of year 9 and 10 students from local schools, rolled up their sleeves and explored construction through activities like bricklaying, joinery, machine driving, sparking interest in rewarding careers. Events like these are vital for inspiring diverse young talent to help address the industry’s skills gap, ensuring a strong pipeline for our local workforce.”

Rachel Cracknell, Head of Personal Development at Netherthorpe School, said: “This has been a very exciting opportunity for our students. It has provided them with hands-on experience across a range of construction trades and has not only helped raise aspirations but has given them the chance to meet potential future employers.

“The students have absolutely loved the experience and for some, this has helped to confirm that they want to aspire for a career in construction. We would like to thank everyone involved in planning such an inspiring and creative event and would love the opportunity to come back again in the future!”

The pupils who took part in the event came from a variety of schools across Derbyshire including Netherthorpe School, Whittington Green School, Springwell Community College, Holly House School, Ashgate Croft School, Mercia Academy, Derby Cathedral School, St Benedicts Catholic Voluntary Academy, Ecclesbourne School and The Bolsover School.

The Construction Skills Hub provides students with trade-based skills and qualifications in things like groundworks, brickwork, and joinery on a live construction site. This allows them to also gain the experience needed to access careers in the construction sector, and in time the Hub will support degree level apprenticeships.

Over ten years, the Hub aims to provide careers insights, training and work experience for over 5,000 learners with qualifications delivered by Chesterfield College and the University of Derby.

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/staveley-town-deal-projects/construction-skills-hub

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Work begins at Hartington Commerce Park

Work has started to build a new industrial site in Staveley that will help attract new businesses and create more jobs as part of a regional growth strategy.

Hartington Commerce Park is a 20-hectare site that has outline planning permission for industrial and warehouse development and work has started with a new access road which will connect the site with Hall Lane. The project is led and owned by Tawnywood Ltd.

Development of the site is primarily funded by the private sector but funding from the Staveley Town Deal is being used for enabling works on the site, including the creation of the new access point and connecting the site with utilities.

Once complete Hartington Commerce Park will form part of the Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone which will support the growth of the advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors.

The initial works have seen the new entrance to the site cleared in preparation for an access road and utility connections which will help encourage further development of the site.

The Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone is part of an initiative funded by the Government and led by East Midlands Combined County Authority. It aims to drive economic growth and create thousands of jobs across the region.

The next phases of development at Hartington Commerce Park will see the access road completed. Buildings will then be developed as businesses confirm they want space on the site.

Learn more about the site and the East Midlands Investment Zone at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November at the Casa Hotel – Book your place now.

Discover more about the projects of the Staveley Town Deal.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

£80,000 set to be awarded to local community groups

Community groups and voluntary organisations in Chesterfield are set to benefit from a share of a further £80,000 in funding as grant applications reopen.

Chesterfield Borough Council has once again reopened applications for its Community Grants Fund scheme, which has already seen more than £450,000 of funding awarded to organisations across the borough.

Since the Community Grants Fund scheme launched in 2023, it has helped more than 100 local organisations that support resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help to tackle food poverty and social isolation, or support people to get in to work.

It is also supporting projects that will reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

Applications for funding from the scheme are now open for eligible groups to apply. The deadline for applications is Friday 24 October 2025.

More information on the eligibility criteria and details on how to apply can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/community-grants-fund

The funding that has been awarded to local groups so far is being used to deliver initiatives that are having a positive impact on Chesterfield residents.

WORTH, a local wellness centre that supports women and children that have been affected by domestic abuse, has used funding received via the scheme to create a ‘Garden of Hope’. A survivor of domestic abuse has joined in with the project to seek a safe space where she can rebuild her confidence and connect with others.

She reflected: “I didn’t think I could be good at something again, but this garden has shown me I can. It has given me a sense of purpose and belonging.”

Elsewhere, Monkwood Community Food Hub has received funds to renovate its kitchen and has been able to provide local families with something hot to eat and drink.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We are lucky to have so many groups here in Chesterfield that help to improve the lives of local people, and this latest round of grant funding will allow us to support even more projects.

“Since the Community Grants Scheme was launched in 2023, we’ve helped more than 100 groups from across Chesterfield Borough by providing funding to help them to deliver vital projects.

“From allowing local groups to deliver exciting gardening projects that bring people together, to volunteers providing hot meals and opportunities for residents to get together, the scheme is having a positive impact on the lives of local people, and it shows our commitment to putting our communities first.”

Alongside the Community Grants Fund, the council is running a community development project which will provide support to organisations wishing to apply for the grant. If you would like any help or guidance with submitting a bid, please contact the team on:

Email: communitygrants@chesterfield.gov.uk

Phone: Phone: 01246 959657 / 07790 977317 or 01246 959415 / 07929 000796

Post: Community Grants Fund, c/o Wendy Blunt,
Health and Wellbeing Officer,
Chesterfield Borough Council,
Town Hall,
Chesterfield,
S40 1LP

Funding for the grants scheme has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded a further £1.1m through the UKSPF, to deliver a range of projects until March 2026. The funding was allocated to the council by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Work begins on modern custody suite

Builders and contractors are on site to begin work on a brand new custody suite in Chesterfield.

The new purpose-built facility for Derbyshire Constabulary, based in Dunston, will serve the north of the county, and work is currently underway to prepare the grounds and foundations.

The project will be delivered by Chesterfield Champions Willmott Dixon.

It will take over from the current custody suite, based in Ripley.

The modern design, which has gone through a thorough design and approval process with contractors Willmott Dixon, has been based on national guidance and research to ensure it meets the needs of every prisoner..

Inside the suite, there will be 36 cells, interview and consultation rooms, as well as dedicated voluntary attendance and bail areas.

There will also be a virtual court to help with dialling into hearings, as well as a larger, naturally lit charge area and specially designed process rooms.

Welfare facilities will also be included, as well as modern CCTV and security and areas for vehicles.

Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Price at Derbyshire Constabulary said: “This new custody suite represents a significant investment in our operational capabilities. The modern facility will provide our officers with the modern and fit for purpose working environment they need to serve the communities of Derbyshire effectively.”

Michelle Cotterill, project director at Willmott Dixon, added: “We are proud to be working with Derbyshire Constabulary to deliver this critical infrastructure. As a company with extensive experience in law-and-order projects, we understand the unique requirements of custody facilities and the importance of creating environments that support both operational efficiency and officer wellbeing.”

The main structure is set to be constructed in 2026, and the build is currently due to complete mid-2027.

Posted in Development, Home

Chesterfield’s manufacturing sector says it must stay proactive to thrive

Chesterfield’s manufacturing sector is navigating a challenging economic landscape. But local leaders say the key to long-term success lies in collaboration, proactive engagement, and a shared commitment to shaping the future.

At a recent roundtable hosted by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with the Derbyshire Times, the manufacturing industry and support organisations discussed the sector’s resilience. Participants stressed, however, that resilience alone would not be enough.

Ivan Fomin of MSE Hiller said, “You can’t sell to customers who aren’t investing. We’ve got the technology and talent, but without demand, we’re treading water.

“Yet, if we want to lay the groundwork for future growth, we must continue to engage with the wider eco-system, from mock interviews to celebratory initiatives like Made in Chesterfield. We’ve got a very cooperative business community. It’s not everywhere. When I talk about it in other places, they wish they had what we have in Chesterfield.”

The need to develop networks was echoed by Josh Kirkwood of Graphoidal. He said, “We’re keen to engage with colleges and support initiatives that showcase what manufacturing in Chesterfield is all about. Even when times are tough, it’s vital to keep those relationships strong.”

The round table also showcased how education providers are stepping up. Chesterfield College is launching a new Engineering, Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre, alongside a fresh approach to business partnerships.

“We’re building a framework to understand what employers need, reward collaboration, and measure impact,” said Rhys Robinson, Director of Engineering and Digital Services to Business. “It’s not just about guest lectures – it’s about shaping curriculum and outcomes.”

The University of Derby is also evolving its strategy.

“We’re aiming to be the most industry-engaged university in the UK,” said Rob Ricketts, Industry Engagement Lead. “Every academic must bring industry into their teaching. Students will leave with real experience, not just theory.”

Manufacturing is deeply embedded in Chesterfield’s identity.

“We’ve got 335 manufacturing businesses – 9% of our total – compared to a national average of 4.5%,” said Lynda Sharp from Chesterfield Borough Council. “A significant portion of our workforce is employed in the sector.”

Support for this key sector is available from East Midlands Chamber, Chesterfield Borough Council, and Destination Chesterfield, offering routes to access funding, skills development, and strategic advice. But as Ian Bates from the Chamber noted: “Businesses say they need help, but they don’t always engage.”

Practical steps for manufacturers to build networks:

Discover support for your business: http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support

Join the next Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Manufacturing Forum on 21st October at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-and-north-derbyshire-manufacturing-forum

Posted in Blog, Business, Home, Manufacturing