About Chesterfield

Construction Skills Hub gains regional recognition for tackling industry skills shortage

An innovative training facility in Chesterfield is gaining regional attention for its hands-on approach to construction skills development. As a result, the Construction Skills Hub is helping position the town as a leader in workforce transformation.

Located on a construction site in Mastin Moor, the Hub equips learners with practical qualifications in groundworks, brickwork, and joinery. It operates through a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group.

Funded by the Staveley Town Deal, The Hub recently featured on BBC Politics East Midlands. It has been shortlisted for Regeneration and Restoration Project of the Year at Insider Media’s East Midlands Property Awards 2025. Insider Media will announce the winners in September.

Thanks to its real-world setting, the Hub gives students the experience and qualifications they need to enter the construction sector. Shortly, it will also offer degree-level apprenticeships.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “It is fantastic that this project is getting recognition. This is a key project because it helps ensure local people can gain the skills to access careers in construction. This contributes to our aims of making Staveley a place where people can start, stay and grow.”

Over the next ten years, the Hub will support more than 5,000 learners. Chesterfield College and the University of Derby will deliver the qualifications.

Julie Richards OBE, Principal of Chesterfield College, said: “Projects such as this are at the core of how we operate. Working directly with key employers, the Hub is supporting students to develop the skills required to meet the ever-increasing demand. Sitting on the Staveley Town Deal Board I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area.”

Currently, the Hub focuses on site-based trade qualifications. However, it will soon expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. This ensures learners gain future-ready skills that align with the evolving needs of the industry.

In addition, the Hub will provide degree-level apprenticeships in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, and Civil Engineering.

Matt Snowden, Associate Provost for Industry Engagement at the University of Derby, said “We are proud to be working in partnership with Chesterfield College and Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver training through the Construction Skills Hub, providing real-world learning opportunities for people looking to embark on a career in the construction industry or develop their skills so they can progress onto new roles. As a Civic University, we commit to supporting regional economic growth and tackling skills shortages by working collaboratively with industry partners. This includes the delivery of our Degree Apprenticeships in Civil Engineering and our new provision in Construction Management, helping to build a strong pipeline of skilled local talent.”

The Hub sits on land provided by the Devonshire Group, which is also delivering the neighbouring housing development.

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “During every project we undertake, we always look for opportunities to add value and create a lasting legacy for the communities that we serve. We are delighted to be a partner on the Construction Skills Hub on our site. The Hub provides ongoing opportunities for education and skills development that we hope will have a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come.

The Construction Skills Hub plays a central role in Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan. Its delivery supports the council’s goal of creating a thriving borough and improving the quality of life for local people.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “We are committed to making sure that our borough is a place where everyone has the opportunity to gain the skills and experience needed to secure an excellent career. We’re proud to support the construction skills hub because it is crucial to helping our residents get ahead, make a better life for themselves and grow our local economy.”

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub and the Staveley Town Deal, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

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

Chesterfield businesses unlock over £170k in funding to upskill their workforce

Chesterfield businesses have accessed more than £170,000 in government funding through the Adult Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, helping them invest in their teams with little or no cost to their organisation[1].

The funding, which was part of a wider allocation secured by Derbyshire County Council during the 2024/25 financial year, has enabled 104 adult apprenticeships across the county, supporting workforce development in 41 local businesses.

In Chesterfield alone, 11 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have benefited from £170,426 in levy transfer support, including organisations from healthcare, childcare, engineering and social care.

More information about apprenticeship funding in Chesterfield is available at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/hiring-an-apprentice/apprenticeship-funding-opportunities/

Sheepbridge-based manufacturer, Graphoidal Developments, which specialises in lubricating and coating solutions for the glass container industry, was just one of the 11 to benefit. The funding supported both a level five operations manager and a level six product design and development engineer.

“Accessing the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer funding has been a game-changer for our business,” said Carl Singleton, Operations Director at Graphoidal Developments. “It enabled us to upskill without the financial burden.”

“Working with the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service made the process straightforward, too. They guided us through every step and helped us find the right training provider. We’d encourage other local businesses to explore what support is available.”

The Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, funded by Chesterfield Borough Council, provides free, impartial advice to local employers looking to invest in training and skills development. It can help businesses identify training needs, access funding streams such as the Levy Transfer, connect with local training providers, and offer support with inclusive recruitment, all at no cost.

Diane Beresford, Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership and Deputy CEO of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are pleased to see businesses taking advantage of funding opportunities to upskill their workforce and drive growth, and we hope that more will do so over the next financial year. With expert support available through the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, there’s never been a better time for businesses to take that next step.”

A dedicated skills website is available for businesses to access via Destination Chesterfield, the town’s place marketing partnership, which works with partners to boost investment and has engaged with over 500 companies over the past two years.

Andy Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Employers upskilling their teams and strengthening their organisations is vital to the long-term growth of our town. Initiatives like this, combined with expert guidance from the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, are key to building a resilient, future-ready workforce that helps Chesterfield compete in an increasingly competitive market. I urge businesses to access business and skills opportunities now.”

Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

[1] The Adult Apprenticeship Levy allows businesses to access 95 – 100% of the costs of apprenticeship training (up to the funding band maximum).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, SkillsTagged in , , , , ,

Local footballer launches Pro90 Academy

A young Chesterfield entrepreneur is turning his passion for football into a business, thanks to support from the Derbyshire business start-up support scheme.

Ewan Catt, a semi-professional footballer and Sports Exercise Science graduate, has launched Pro90 Academy, a football coaching business. The business offers youth development programmes, elite training sessions, school partnerships, and rehabilitation support for players returning from injury.

“As I neared the end of my degree, I began to think about my football coaching academy, turning my passion into a business,” said Ewan. “I initially did some research into local business support and found the Derbyshire business start-up support scheme. I arranged an online meeting with one of the business startup advisors, where we discussed my ideas around Pro90 Academy.  They explained how they could support with business advice, help develop a business plan and a 2-year financial forecast.   This included a startup grant support for my website and the equipment I required for football coaching.”

With no prior business experience, Ewan credits the support he received as essential to getting Pro90 Academy off the ground.

“The team then helped me tweak my business plan and worked with me to produce a comprehensive plan. Having never been in business before, the support I received was invaluable.”

Ewan’s journey began in Chesterfield’s grassroots football scene, progressing through professional academies before signing for Buxton FC at 17. He now plays for Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club, while running Pro90 Academy full-time.

Pro90 Academy has already secured its first school coaching contract and is delivering one-to-one and group sessions across Chesterfield. Ewan is also running football summer camps throughout August at Queen’s Park Sports Centre, offering coaching for children aged 6–12.

Ewan gives the following advice to those looking to start their own business.  “When starting in business in Chesterfield, don’t be afraid to reach out for local business support and advice at Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire County Council and local business support hubs. ”

Councillor Rob Reaney, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “It’s vital that local start-up companies get the support they need to turn their ideas into a reality.

“We want to encourage more entrepreneurism in Derbyshire to help boost the local economy, and I’d encourage anyone who needs help in getting their new business off the ground to get in touch with the Derbyshire Business Start-up Support Scheme to see how we can help, just as Ewan did. We wish Ewan every success with his new business and look forward to following his progress.”

Ryan Wilkes, Board member at Destination Chesterfield, added, “It’s fantastic to see young entrepreneurs like Ewan launching new ventures. Pro90 Academy is an example of how passion, talent and the right support can come together to create something that benefits the community. We encourage anyone thinking of starting their own business or already in business to take advantage of the business support available.”

Discover more about Pro90 Academy at https://www.pro90academy.com/

The Derbyshire business start-up support scheme offers free, impartial advice and support to new businesses. It also provides grant funding of up to £10,000 to eligible businesses. The initiative is delivered by Derbyshire County Council and funded by East Midlands County Combined Authority’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

Find out more about the business and skills support available in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Mayor puts prosperity of people and places first in new drive for East Midlands growth

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward is meeting people across the region as she builds up to the launch of plans that could unlock a new kind of economic growth.

Mayor Claire will meet residents, business leaders and people working in health and skills at a series of events in Chesterfield, Derby and Nottingham in late July.

Over the past few months, she has secured £4 billion in government investment in the East Midlands, opening up the potential for nationally-significant developments, business expansion, jobs growth, transport improvements and more housing.

But she’s also brought together a group of specialists who have been working with communities and talking to business, skills and health leaders about ways of opening up the benefits of growth to more people and places in the region.

This Inclusive Growth Commission will reveal its final recommendations in September, and they will come only a few weeks ahead of the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s Local Growth Plan, which will set out a roadmap for regional investment and the role the East Midlands will play in the UK’s wider growth ambitions.

Mayor Claire said: “As Mayor, I’ve secured more than £4 billion in investment to drive growth in the region. The scale of the investment we will be making in the East Midlands puts us at the heart of the country’s future, but this is not the end of the story.

“I want everyone to be part of this economy and to feel the benefits of their contribution. That means investing in a way which creates good jobs, thriving places, and an enabling, reliable transport network. This is growth held to higher standards: inclusive growth.

“One of the characteristics of inclusive growth is that the people who create the prosperity – you – get to say what good looks like. So, I’m inviting you to tell us: sign up to one of our summer events, think about our outline plans, and tell me what you think. Working together, we can turn our region into the best place to live, work, and learn.”

The events will take place in Derby on 22 July, Chesterfield on 23 July and Nottingham on 24 July, and residents, businesses, local authorities and community leaders are all being invited to attend.

Details of the three events are available here – East Midlands Combined County Authority: summer engagement events

At each event, Mayor Claire will outline the region’s investment programme and how it will be delivered and invite members of the Inclusive Growth Commission to talk through their work. They will then hold round table discussions with people at the events to hear their views and answer questions.

Feedback from the events is expected to be built into the work of the Inclusive Growth Commission and into the East Midlands Local Growth Plan – which will set out a roadmap for investment and show how the expansion of the region’s economy can contribute to government’s ambitions for wider national progress.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield celebrates safe nights out with Best Bar None Awards – Public voting now open

Chesterfield is once again celebrating its vibrant nightlife, as the town’s pubs, bars and clubs prepare to be honoured at the 2025 Best Bar None Awards. You are now invited to vote for your favourite venue, helping to spotlight businesses that make nights out safer and more enjoyable.

The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, 23 July at the SMH Group Stadium, hosted by Chesterfield Borough Council. The event recognises venues that promote responsible drinking and work actively to reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder.

A Community Committed to Safety

Since launching in 2023, the Best Bar None scheme has brought together local authorities, police, and the licensed trade. Backed by the Home Office and the drinks industry, the initiative encourages better venue management and stronger community partnerships.

All licensed premises in Chesterfield were invited to apply for accreditation. Those who met the criteria will receive official recognition at the ceremony.

Public vote now open for the Best Bar None Awards

Residents can now vote in the People’s Choice Award, which celebrates the venue that makes them feel most welcome and safe.

Vote at chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/1v9ilh

Voting closes shortly before the awards night.

Celebrating Excellence Across the Borough

In addition to the public vote, four special awards will be presented:

  • Best Managed Venue
  • Best Tenanted Venue
  • Best Independent Venue
  • Overall Best Venue

These categories highlight the diversity and quality of Chesterfield’s hospitality sector.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said: “Chesterfield is a safe and welcoming place to live, socialise and visit. Our local venues play a vital role in creating that atmosphere. These awards celebrate their hard work and encourage others to join the scheme.”

Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added: “We’re proud of the collaboration between businesses, the council and the police. The Best Bar None scheme helps us maintain a safe and enjoyable night-time economy. It’s fantastic to see so many venues stepping up.”

Businesses encouraged to join Best Bar None

Licensed venues are encouraged to get involved. Accreditation not only boosts reputation but also strengthens ties with the local community. To apply, contact the Licensing Team at Chesterfield Borough Council:

licensing@chesterfield.gov.uk
01246 345230
www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

Check out our blog for inspiration on where to eat and drink in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Geeks Headquarters expands to Chesterfield High Street

Chesterfield independent business, Geeks Headquarters, is expanding and relocating to larger premises in the town centre.
The expansion marks a major milestone in its 10-year journey.

The family-run gaming retailer known for its vibrant community and wide range of trading cards, board games, and role-playing products will open at the beginning of August.   The new store on Chesterfield High Street, next to Clarks, spans three floors, nearly three times the size of its current venue, offering more space for events, tournaments, and an expanded product range.

Alberto Naso, owner of Geeks Headquarters, said, “We’ve grown from a market stall to a thriving hub for gamers across the region. The new shop will allow us to host more events and stock exciting new products.  We will also continue to offer a free, welcoming space for people to play, connect and belong.”

Founded in Chesterfield a decade ago, Geeks Headquarters has become a cornerstone of the town’s independent retail scene. Its unique model combines retail with community space, offering free casual play areas, regular tournaments, and services like 3D printing and card grading.

The move comes as the business outgrows its current space, driven by strong customer support and a growing regional reputation. Alberto also praised the ongoing investment in Chesterfield’s town centre, particularly the revitalised market area near the new shop.

Proud of Chesterfield

“We’re proud to be part of Chesterfield’s independent business community,” Alberto added. “We love doing business in Chesterfield as it’s in an ideal position with good travel links. The local community must continue to support local independent businesses, to keep our town vibrant.”

Geeks Headquarters also collaborates with other local businesses, including Board and Bean and RKT Grading Services.

Dominic Staniforth, Destination Chesterfield Board member and Chair of Chesterfield Town Board, said:  “Geeks Headquarters is a fantastic example of how independent businesses are helping to shape a vibrant, modern Chesterfield. Their investment in the town centre is a vote of confidence in our high street and a great boost for the local economy. We’re delighted to see them grow and thrive here.”

Town Centre Investment

The investment follows recent news of improvements to and investment in Chesterfield town centre:

If you would like to discuss investment opportunities in Chesterfield town centre, please contact us.

Geeks Headquarter support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, LeisureTagged in , , , , ,

New supermarket development supports jobs for the community

Thirty local people will be offered guaranteed job interviews at a new supermarket in Brimington. This follows completion of a short training programme. The opportunity is part of a sector-based work academy.

The new Aldi store is located on Ringwood Road. Chesterfield Borough Council approved the planning application in January. As a major development, it includes local labour conditions. These aim to create jobs and training for residents.

Training and job opportunities

The store is expected to create 40 to 50 new jobs. It is due to open in mid-November. A two-week sector-based work academy will begin on the 4th August. The programme is part of the council’s employment and skills plan. It will be delivered in partnership with Chesterfield College.

As a result, 30 people who complete the training will receive guaranteed interviews. To support this, two information events will take place on Friday 18 July. Both will be held at St Michael’s Church Hall in Brimington.

Sessions will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Attendees can learn about the roles available and how to enrol. Anyone interested can register by emailing: paul.munday2@dwp.gov.uk

Supporting local employment

“We want to do all we can as a council to ensure that local talent is recognised and celebrated, so securing 30 job interviews for those who have completed the short training programme is great news,” said Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council.  “By working in partnership with organisations, we help local people develop the skills to progress in their careers or access new opportunities as they become available.”

Scott Smith, area manager for Aldi, said: “Aldi is delighted to be investing in Chesterfield through the opening of a new store in Brimington that is scheduled to open mid-November.  As an organisation, we are committed to supporting local regeneration and are looking forward to working with local partners on the delivery of the sector-based work academy.

Julie Richards, principal and CEO at the Chesterfield College Group, added: “We are delighted to be providing the training to support 30 members of our local community with the opportunity of employment.

Image: Aldi

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Skills

M Core acquires Vicar Lane shopping centre

One of the UK’s largest privately held property investment collectives, Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, has acquired Vicar Lane shopping centre in Chesterfield.

A well-positioned town centre asset

The 202,000 sq ft scheme includes 34 retail units and a 400-space car park. It is home to a strong mix of national and regional occupiers. These include JD Sports, H&M, Iceland, The Works, Deichmann, Waterstones, New Look and Holland & Barrett.

In addition, the site features civic space at St James’ Square, which includes a 12-metre LED screen. It is also located close to key development sites such as Chesterfield Waterside and Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield 

“Vicar Lane is a well-positioned retail destination in a town with ambition and momentum,” said Danny O’Keefe, founding partner at Sheet Anchor Evolve.  “As a long-term investor, our strength lies in our ability to invest in places, work closely with tenants and local stakeholders, and use our in-house expertise to unlock value. This is exactly the type of asset we can evolve through intensive management – enhancing its relevance to the community and supporting its role in Chesterfield’s wider regeneration.”

Supporting local growth

This acquisition supports M Core’s strategy of investing in convenience-led retail. It also reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s town centre as a place for sustainable retail and business activity.

“This latest acquisition underlines our focus on assets where we can bring capital, capability and creativity to deliver strong outcomes,” added O’Keefe

For more information about Vicar Lane Chesterfield, visit: www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk

Chesterfield town centre investment

The investment follows recent news of improvements to and investment in Chesterfield town centre:

If you would like to discuss investment opportunities in Chesterfield town centre, please contact us.

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

Five local firms making national impact

Chesterfield continues to shine as a centre of innovation, enterprise, and community-driven success, with five businesses recently recognised on regional, national, and international stages. From sustainability leadership to creative excellence and social impact, these achievements reflect the town’s reputation as a place to do business.

Team at Killingley with award on stage.

Killingley: Winner in landscaping excellence

Killingley, a long-established landscaping firm based in Chesterfield, was named Commercial Landscape Company of the year at the Pro Landscaper Business Awards 2025, recognised for its excellence in client retention, industry leadership, and a people-first culture. Judges praised the company’s strong financial stability and standout performance in safety, quality, and employee wellbeing.

Gareth Dillion, Managing Director at Killingley, said: “This is fantastic industry recognition for the entire Killigley team who, through their continued hard work and commitment to representing the company with professionalism and pride, have all contributed to this accolade. Everyone who wears the Killingley brand should feel extremely proud of their combined achievement.”

With over 110 employees and over 50 years of experience, Killingley continues to set benchmarks in commercial landscaping, including multiple national awards from the British Association of Landscape Industries.

Mock up image of award winning website

CRUSH: International acclaim for design innovation

Chesterfield design agency CRUSH has added another accolade to its portfolio, winning in the ‘Excellent Brands – Industry, Machines and Engineering’ category at the German Brand Awards 2025. The award celebrates CRUSH’s transformative rebrand of engineering firm Ziemann Holvrieka, praised for its strategic depth, sustainability focus, and global visual impact.

“Ziemann Holvrieka, a leading company in the beverage industry with over 170 years of experience, has achieved an impressive transformation through its rebranding. The new brand identity seamlessly combines tradition and future by emphasising both technological excellence and sustainability,” noted the German Design Council.

CRUSH’s work included a full brand identity, multilingual website, exhibition design, and comprehensive brand guidelines, showcasing Chesterfield’s creative talent on the international stage.

Kevin Walker Black Swan

Black Swan Cyber Security: Championing small business protection

Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, a Chesterfield-based firm specialising in cyber protection for small organisations, was selected by retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis as a winner in his Small Business Sunday (#SBS) initiative. The recognition brings national exposure and networking opportunities to the business, which supports schools, care providers, and parish councils.

“Theo’s support amplifies our mission to make robust cyber security accessible to organisations of all sizes,” said founder Kevin Walker.

The #SBS network now includes over 4,000 UK businesses, and Black Swan’s inclusion highlights Chesterfield’s growing tech and digital sector.

Jorden Clay (L), Group General Manager, and Paul Urquhart (R), Paragon

Paragon: Leading the way in sustainable business

Advanced cleaning solutions provider Paragon has achieved Gold status from Ecovadis, placing it in the top 5% of companies assessed globally for sustainability. The firm ranks in the 98th percentile worldwide and top 1% in its sector, reflecting excellence in environmental, ethical, and labour practices.

“Sustainability is no longer a bolt-on; it’s built into how we operate,” said Jorden Clay, Group General Manager. “This award recognises the ambition and dedication of our team.”

Paragon’s achievement follows its recent expansion into a new facility on Broombank Road, reinforcing Chesterfield’s credentials as a base for responsible, forward-thinking enterprise.

Kakou: Driving Social Impact Through Inclusive Innovation

Ann Fomukong-Boden, founder of Kakou Technologies, has been shortlisted for the Enterprising Women Award for Social Commitment by the East Midlands Chamber. The nomination celebrates Kakou’s work in ethical innovation and inclusive design, with a focus on empowering communities and regenerating places.

“As a woman in engineering, I’m proud to show that purpose-led business can empower voices and inspire the next generation of changemakers,” said Ann.

Kakou’s recognition places Chesterfield at the heart of a regional movement celebrating women’s leadership and social enterprise.

These achievements reflect more than individual success; they showcase Chesterfield’s dynamic business landscape, where creativity, sustainability, and community values drive innovation.

Killingley, CRUSH, Kakou, Paragon Products and Black Swan Cyber Security support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield

Historic canal to bring future economic and community boost

There’s something meditative about walking along the Chesterfield Canal. The wind whistling through the reeds and a gentle lap of ripples against the bank always seems to slow my steps. And if you pause long enough, you can spot all manner of wildlife, including deer, herons and moorhens to name just a few! 

But this is no ordinary stretch of water. It mirrors the story of our wonderful town and its industrial roots. Originally built to transport coal, iron and stone, it is now evolving into a corridor of opportunity.  

Woman on blue trip boat on Chesterfield Canal with red trip boat ahead

This spring, a masterplan was unveiled to complete the final 8.5 miles of the Chesterfield Canal between Staveley and Kiveton Park, making the whole 46-mile route fully navigable once again. But this isn’t just about restoring a piece of our past with rose-tinted spectacles. It’s about reimagining a picturesque channel through our communities, one that connects nature, leisure, health, business and heritage. 

Eighteen different hubs have been identified along the canal’s route, each with their own character and potential. Plans include fitness trails, cycling and walking routes, paddle sports, outdoor learning spaces, wildlife havens, and new job opportunities. 

It’s designed to be a place where people live, work and play. Where you can walk the dog at sunrise, stop for a coffee, kayak in the afternoon, and meet friends for dinner by the water. I’m excited that my young daughter will have access to a beautiful space as she grows up, providing opportunities for us to spend quality time as a family, but also for her to develop new hobbies, interests and activities in the future.  Renishaw canal plan artist impression

Take Staveley Canal Basin, for example. Already a cherished local gem, it’s now the home of The Moorings — a stylish new development offering new business space with room for cafés, shops, and workspaces. Imagine sipping your favourite coffee or a cooling smoothie, while narrowboats pass just metres away — idyllic! 

Did you know that 12 miles have already been restored over the past 35 years? The work continues thanks to dedicated volunteers and bold investments from those who see the canal’s potential.  

Have you walked or cycled over our town’s new 38-metre Trans Pennine Trail bridge yet? Imagine the views and the stunning photo opportunities once the canal beneath has been rewatered.  

But the bigger picture is even more inspiring. This regeneration could bring in over £250 million in visitor spending, boost local nature and biodiversity, and support thousands of jobs and businesses. 

I’ll be spending a lot of time down by the water this summer. Say hi if you bump into me! Explore car-free, dog-friendly days out, fabulous food and drink and discover the canal’s beauty for yourself:  www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Explore this summer in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Development, Home, Summer

Chesterfield barbers named top 50 SME apprenticeship employer four years in a row

Less Than Zero Barbers has once again secured its place in the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2025, as published by RateMyApprenticeship in partnership with the Department for Education. Now ranked ninth nationwide, this marks the fourth consecutive year that the pioneering barbering business has been recognised for its exceptional contribution to apprenticeship training and youth employment.

Founded with a vision to modernise barbering and transform how young people enter the trade, Less Than Zero Barbers has developed an award-winning training pipeline that combines government-funded apprenticeships with privately accredited programmes. The company has supported hundreds of learners in gaining practical skills, customer service expertise, and commercial acumen while championing the independent spirit that defines the UK’s grooming sector.

“We believe apprenticeships are far more than qualifications — they are life-changing springboards for meaningful careers,” said Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Founder and CEO of Less Than Zero Barbers. “To be recognised for a fourth year running demonstrates the impact of investing in people and our commitment to driving standards ever higher.”

With its dedicated academy and expanding network of shops, Less Than Zero Barbers continues to create pathways for local talent. Many apprentices progress to become senior barbers or open their own chairs and businesses under the group’s guidance, strengthening local economies and high streets in the process.

The Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers list celebrates small and medium-sized enterprises across England that demonstrate outstanding dedication to apprenticeships. The rigorous selection criteria highlight not only the scale of provision but also quality, retention, and the transformative impact on learners’ futures.

Apprentice Town

Chesterfield is an ‘Apprentice Town’, where young people, parents and businesses think apprenticeship first.

Growing individuals’ careers and futures alongside successful businesses and a growing local economy.

Taking on apprentices is a positive way for businesses to address their workforce needs.

Benefits include:

  • Solving recruitment challenges and growing your business
  • Increasing productivity
  • A tried and tested way to recruit new staff, re-train or upskill existing staff
  • Flexible training that meets the needs of your business

If you would like support on taking on apprentices or wider skills or business support, you can request further advice at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Search here if you are looking for an apprenticeship in and around Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Skills