About Chesterfield

Community and charity efforts highlighted across Chesterfield

People and businesses in Chesterfield continue to show their support for our local communities.

Recently, a Chesterfield firm raised over £7,000 by hosting a charity golf day in the town. In addition, a local manufacturing firm donated life-saving equipment to one of the town’s walking football teams.

Meanwhile, a teenager from North Derbyshire has picked up a national award after raising more than £10,000 for various causes.

Read more about the latest fundraising initiatives below:


SMH Group’s charity golf day raises £7,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association

SMH Group - MNDA - Golf Day

SMH Group, a local firm of chartered accountants and business advisers, has raised over £7,000 for the company’s charity of the year, the South Yorkshire branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).

The money was raised at the firm’s annual charity golf day, which took place at Chesterfield Golf Club in September.

The MNDA is a charity close to many people at the SMH Group, as it supports individuals and families battling the devastating impact of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). With no known cure, the MNDA plays a pivotal role in providing essential care, support, and research funding to improve the lives of those affected by MND.

Ross Jordan, Partner at SMH Group comments: “As a progressive company by nature, we wanted to make this year’s charity golf day bigger and better than ever. After the success of our first two events, we had a big target to aim at and we’re absolutely thrilled to have smashed it, raising more than three times the amount we did last year.

“This was achieved by opening the event up to more sponsors, who we can’t thank enough for their kind donations of tee sponsorship, competition sponsorship, raffle and auction prize donations, as well as all 29 teams who donated to take part – we couldn’t have done this without you!

“We had a lot of keen, and competitive, golfers take part, which made for a very entertaining day with the individual on-course competitions, as well the overall team competition for first, second and third place.”


Spireites Walking Football Club receives a life-saving donation from United Cast Bar

united cast bar defibrillator donation

Local engineering company, United Cast Bar Ltd. have donated two CellAEDs (Defibrillators) to the Senior Spireites Walking Football Club following one of their players suffering a Cardiac Arrest during a recent match.

Thanks to the knowledge and quick action taken by another player, CPR was administered and their closest AED was used to revive the player (Mel) suffering Cardiac Arrest. Mel is now recovering at home following a short hospital stay.

Malc Perks, Chair of the Senior Spireites, says the experience made him realise that the club needed better access to defibrillators (AEDs) for away matches in other locations, and social trips that are attended.

He said: “seeing first hand how vital the AED was in saving Mel’s life made me realise that we needed other units for use at all our events and matches. James from UCB and the CellAED supplier CorMed-DX have been very quick to respond to my request which means that our members will be better protected at future matches and events that the club attends.

“Our experience shows that we were lucky to have someone who knew how to do CPR. To make sure that others can do the same thing in future we are having several of our members enrol on CPR courses in the next few weeks. As a result, I would urge all sporting clubs to make sure that they have access to a defibrillator, know how to use it, and have people in the club who are CPR trained.”


Ashgate Hospice launches ‘Go Pink’ fundraiser

Ashgate Fundraising team

Local charity Ashgate Hospice, which provides patients with end-of-life care is urging people to ‘Go Pink’ to help raise funds and awareness.

The hospice will host its second Go Pink for Ashgate week fundraiser between 9th and 15th October this year.

Families, schools and organisations are encouraged to organise their own pink-themed fundraising event or initiative to help Ashgate raise funds so it can be there for patients and their loved ones.

Seven schools, including Arkwright Primary School, Old Hall Junior School, Walton Holymoorside Primary School and St. Mary’s Catholic High School will be supporting Go Pink for Ashgate by holding non-uniform days and urging pupils to wear pink.

Rachel Broughton, Community Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, said: “It’s time to get your pink on! Can you wear something pink or hold a pink themed event and show your support in return for a donation to the hospice?

“Why not dress as a pink flamingo or wear pink bunny ears to work – do whatever you wish!

“Please reach out to us if you’d be interested in being involved; your support will help raise the £9 million needed to provide our care each year.”

To find out more about how you join in with the Go Pink for Ashgate week celebrations go to https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/go-pink.


North Derbyshire teenager wins 2023 British Youth Award for fundraising efforts

Hayden Hudson

A teenager from North Derbyshire has been honoured with a prestigious national award after showing selflessness, kindness and commitment for a number of causes.

Hayden Hudson, aged 13 will be one of only 24 people nationally to be presented with the BCyA Medal of Honour, in a special ceremony taking place at The Palace of Westminster on 12 October 2023.

Hayden has raised in excess of £10,000 for multiple charities during the past five years. After learning about how the cancer unit at his local hospital helps people who are unwell and suffering, he decided he wanted to do something to help. Although Hayden has ADHD, ASD and learning difficulties, he decided to physically challenge himself to raise funds for charity.

Each year Hayden undertakes two fundraisers. He selects the charity he would like to help and then thinks of bigger and better ways to raise funds. His fundraisers are usually endurance challenges and require extensive physical effort.

Hayden is passionate about swimming, with aspirations to one day represent Team GB at the Olympics. Many of his fundraising activities are sponsored swims, one of which saw him swim 44 miles over the course of two weeks. He also undertook a triathlon with a bike ride over 18 miles, to raise money for Bluebell Wood, a hospice for children.

During lockdown, when the swimming pools were closed, Hayden embarked on a 100-mile sponsored bike ride, raising much needed funds for the local food bank and Parish church. Hayden continues to challenge himself for the benefit of others in the community.


SMH Group, United Cast Bar and Ashgate Hospice 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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Chesterfield Football Club opens newly-refurbished training ground

Chesterfield Football Club has officially opened its newly developed training ground in Hasland.

The decision was taken by the board to develop the training ground in order to provide the squad with suitable facilities and attract talent to the club.

After securing the site on a long lease, around £300,000 was spent on a scheme of improvements, including the installation of suitable drainage and irrigation.

The facility has been named the Erwin Training Ground in memory of the late Erwin Miller. Erwin’s son, Karl, is the managing director local business, Motan Colortonic.

Commenting on the decision to sponsor the training ground, Karl said: “I think it’s a great honour and it’s something we wanted to do to remind us and everybody that people need help. My father helped many people. He was a great believer in developing and this is our way of helping the development of the Chesterfield team in the future.”

Chesterfield FC’s Marketing Manager, Bridget Ball said: “The support we receive from the local business community is vital and I would like to thank Karl for his generous support, which is very much appreciated.”

John Croot – Chief Executive at Chesterfield FC said: “Our state-of-the-art facilities are making a real difference to the team and community and would not be possible without some very special companies who continue to support Chesterfield FC in their quest for a better future together.”

Current club sponsors and commercial partners were invited to view the revamped facilities on Monday and the following companies have kindly signed-up to provide sponsorship:

  • Andrew Herring and Co
  • Chesterfield College
  • Dorlec
  • Drillwell
  • Ideal Flooring
  • Leengate Valves
  • LMD Vacuum
  • Penny Hydraulics
  • Print Digital Media
  • White Stores

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

Erwin training ground Chesterfield FC

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Chesterfield community groups urged to apply for grant funding

Community groups and voluntary organisations are reminded to check if they are eligible for grant funding from a scheme designed to help boost grassroots projects.

Over £59,900 of funding has already been allocated to organisations across the borough as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Fund – and applications are still open, giving even more eligible groups the chance to apply.

With grants ranging from £500 to £6,000, the Community Grants Fund scheme aims to support local projects that will help to build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

Funding can also be used to develop volunteering opportunities, help people prepare to get in to work, and to support organisations to expand their reach into different areas of the borough.

Further information can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/community-grants-fund

The scheme is already helping to fund 16 projects across the borough – ranging from funding new equipment, setting up new community groups, refurbishing community hubs, helping deliver programmes to help develop skills and employability, providing volunteering opportunities, and running workshops to help with mental health issues.

The deadline for community groups and voluntary organisations to submit an application is Friday 27 October.

Alongside the Community Grants Fund, the council is also running a community development project which will provide support to organisations wishing to apply for a grant.

Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, said: “We are really pleased to have secured this funding – it will support the delivery of important projects across the borough. We’ve already been able to provide 16 groups with funding since we launched the scheme earlier this year and are looking forward to watching those projects progress.

“I strongly urge other groups in our community to check if they are eligible and get their application in before the deadline so that we can make sure our communities continue to thrive.

“If you are unsure if you are eligible or would some support and guidence with submitting a bid, you can talk to our team who will be more than happy to help. You can contact them by emailing communitygrants@chesterfield.gov.uk or calling 01246 959657.”

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).

The community grants are just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

town hall drone shot

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Win tickets to the Chesterfield pantomime by completing our survey

Residents and visitors have the opportunity to win two pantomime tickets to see Aladdin at The Winding Wheel Theatre this year, by completing our Love Chesterfield consumer survey.

Both the consumer and business surveys are published on a quarterly basis to allow us to track your thoughts and feedback on what has been happening in and around Chesterfield.

Love Chesterfield is a campaign organised by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to promote and support high streets and town centres across the borough of Chesterfield.

The short surveys will ask you two different sets of questions, depending on if you are a consumer or a business owner.

The consumer survey will ask you to update us on what events or venues you have attended and services you have used recently in our communities.

Chesterfield Town Centre vicar lane high street

The business survey will ask about your performance and any changes you have noticed in the last three months (July 2023-September 2023).

Please spend a few minutes to complete the relevant questionnaire. The results will allow us to monitor the performance of the town, the success of marketing campaigns and business support and will help to shape future activity to support high street businesses across the borough.

The survey will close on 13 November 2023.

At the end of the consumer questionnaire, there is an opportunity to win two free tickets to see Aladdin at The Winding Wheel Theatre which is on stage from 1 December 2023 to 2 January 2024. The winner will be notified by email or phone by 24 November 2023.

Businesses who complete the survey, will have the chance to enter a prize draw to win advertising for your business in the Destination Chesterfield business or leisure e-shot (worth £100).

The Leisure E-shot which is sent to nearly 8,000 contacts on a weekly basis or The Business E-shot which is sent to almost 5,000 contacts on a weekly basis.

A winner will be drawn in Spring 2024. To qualify for the prize draw, you must have filled out the previous surveys in May and July 2023 as well as this survey and the planned one January 2024.

The email the banner ad will feature in will depend on the type of services and products the winning business delivers – the most relevant email will be selected by matching the business end consumer with the email’s audience.

Complete the surveys here:

Business:
https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/5c6siw

Consumer:
https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/7tbl3t

Winding Wheel

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50 food and drink businesses to try in Chesterfield

Ever struggle to decide which food and drink business to visit? From street food to fine dining, and cocktail bars to cosy cafés – you will find a venue for every occasion in Chesterfield.

Here is a list of 50 fabulous food and drink businesses you should experience. Click on the name of the business to be taken to their website and learn more.

You can find more inspiration on eating out in Chesterfield here.

Experienced a great meal or customer service? Make sure you leave a review or share a post on your social media and include #LoveChesterfield


Time to wine down – cocktail and wine bars

Friends enjoying a cocktails in the sun at Dirty Habit in Chesterfield

Nothing beats 2-4-1 cocktails or a glass of your favourite wine – here are a few bars that might tickle your fancy.  

1. Dirty Habit – A great option for meeting with friends and family as they offer a chilled music vibe, a laid-back style and table service.

2. Junction Bar – Located on the busy Chatsworth Road, this bar is conveniently located for drinking and socialising with friends.

3. Chandlers Bar – A dedicated eclectic vintage-themed cocktail bar, offering beer, wine, and homemade cocktails.

4. Einstein’s – A Bavarian Bierhaus, cocktail bar and kitchen nestled in the heart of Chesterfield.

5. The Brampton Social Club – Enjoy a great range of beers, a delicious wine list and a range of classic and interesting cocktails at The Brampton Social Club

6. Armisteads – Offers a chilled and relaxed atmosphere, serving a range of cocktails and craft beers.

7. Darwin and Bear – A quirky bar offering the perfect place to enjoy food and drink with friends. To make your even more memorable, there are even retro video games built into booth seating!

8. Empire – Serves a range of fresh cocktails, alcohol, fresh bean barista coffee, plant-based available, and a selection of hot and cold drinks.


Bottoms up! Real ale pubs

A pint of Brampton Brewery beer being served

Imagine being out with friends and family, enjoying a pint of your favourite real ale or larger – sounds perfect, doesn’t it? Here are some of the pubs in our local area where you can do just that.

9. The Rose and Crown Brampton – A friendly and progressive take on a time-honoured British pub experience. Offering a handpicked selection of real ale, cider, and gin.

10. The Market Pub – A pub in the heart of the town centre, offering a selection of cask ales, 100 different wines, 50 different malt whiskies and a homemade food menu.

11. Chesterfield Arms – A traditional pub with a twist! This is a cosy multi award-winning brewpub serving a great selection of real ale and craft beers.

12. Tramway Tavern – A local pub offering a comfortable and welcoming environment, serving award-winning cask ales, Brampton wine and world beer.

13. The Neptune Beer Emporium – Traditional pub and music venue offering 8 rotating cask ale pumps alongside real cider, larger, craft beer and Belgian beers on draught.

14. The Brampton Bierhuis – Located right next to Brampton Brewery, this is the perfect location to sample some of the best award-winning ale and beer.


Time to get dressed up – romantic dining

Celebrating something special? These restaurants serve tasty food and drink in an intimate setting.

Couple sat down enjoying food and drink at Casa Hotel

15. Cocina at Casa – A two-rosette, award-winning restaurant providing an authentic taste of British food with a Spanish infusion, using locally sourced ingredients.

16. The Tickled Trout – An award-winning gastro pub located in Barlow, serving pub food alongside innovative specials using the highest quality artisan ingredients available.

17. The Peak Edge Hotel – Red Lion Pub & Restaurant – Located on the edge of the Peak District, the Red Lion restaurant boasts a warm and friendly relaxed atmosphere serving a menu full of fresh and local ingredients.

18. Figaro Wingerworth – Whether it be breakfast, lunch, or dinner this plant-based café has you covered.

19. Bottle and Thyme – A family-run, independent restaurant, and bar. Serving a fresh, local, organic, seasonal menu from breakfast through to evening meals.

20. The Old Post – Enjoy a premium dining experience set within one of the third oldest buildings in the town centre, which used to be a post office (hence the name).

21. The Bulls Head Holymoorside – As well as being a great place to meet for a drink, dining here is a must. Award-winning pub using fresh, grown, bred and foraged produce from the local area.


For pizza and pasta lovers

Group of friends enjoying food and drink at Sicily Restaurant in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is home to some of the best Italian restaurants serving up your favourite pizza and pasta dishes.

22. Sicily Restaurant – Enjoy a holiday vibe with the relaxed informal dining experience of Sicily Restaurant on Sheffield Road.

23. Teresa Lambarelli’s Italian Cafè and Pasta Bar – Traditional Italian café and pasta bar, restaurant, and takeaway, serving freshly ground Portioli Coffee, pasta, pizza, platters, panini, and cocktails.

24. Blue Oceans Mediterranean Restaurant – Experience the taste of the Mediterranean with a range of dishes available on the menu. Choose from pizza, pasta, seafood and more.

25. Lombardis – Beautifully decorated and delicious food to make you feel like you’re on holiday in Italy.

26. Nonnas – Situated on Chatsworth Road, offering wholesome Italian hospitality. The open-view restaurant is open every day for lunch and dinner.

27. Filippelli’s Bistro & Bar – Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner delivering wholesome food and drink that caters for everyone.


Want to try something new? Dining with a twist

Lots of people having food and drink at Batch House food hall

You may be an adventurous individual or looking for a dining experience with a difference. Make sure to check out what these venues have to offer – you won’t be disappointed.

28. Batch House – This venue has it all, from pasta to loaded fries, stone-baked pizzas to ice cream and much more.

29. Boba Shack – Offers a huge range of ‘pick & mix’ bubble tea drinks options as well as a pre-mix menu for those who are unsure of what to order.

30. Afats Grill – A Turkish restaurant, using its Turkish heritage to offer dishes created in southeast Anatolia

31. Chesters – Enjoy traditional fish and chips sitting in a beach hut at the restaurant or if you’re in a rush collect your food using the drive-through.

32. Fat Pig BBQ – A local catering company specialising in takeaway BBQ-style food and not forgetting dirty fries!

33. Odyssey Restaurant – Offers a journey of authentic flavours, sounds and atmosphere, bringing a sense of Greece to the heart of Chesterfield.

34. Galleon Steak House – Boasts a great variety of steaks, ranging in multiple sizes depending on how hungry you are!

35. Tyzacks – Stanedge Golf Club – This family-friendly restaurant welcomes everyone to enjoy their delicious food whether you’re a golf lover or never played before.


Scones and cakes – afternoon tea for two

A couple enjoying afternoon tea including scones and sweet treats at Ringwood Hall Hotel

Chesterfield has many places that offer wonderful afternoon tea. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon, eating delicious sandwiches and sweet treats. Who would you share with?

36. Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa – Beautiful 19th-century manor house, set amongst 6 acres of award-winning gardens. Why not pair your afternoon tea with a visit to the spa?

37. The Café at Libby’s – Treat a friend to an afternoon tea, including a selection of sandwiches and delicious cakes from The Café at Libby’s.

38. Dronfield Hall Barn – Enjoy the cosy atmosphere in the Barn or sit outside amongst the beautiful gardens in the summer to enjoy your afternoon tea.

39. Café Nellie – Independent café and coffee shop serving breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. They are also dog-friendly!


Coffee and catch up with friends

Friends socialising over a coffee and cake at Vintage Tea Rooms

Complete a shopping trip or catch up with friends and family at one of our friendly cafes.

40. Vintage Tea Rooms – From homemade cakes to a pot of tea to share, the Vintage Tea Rooms is the place to visit if you fancy a treat.

41. The Café at Northern Tea Merchants – A quaint café down Chatsworth Road offering traditional charm and coffee-filled aromas.

42. Peacocks Coffee Lounge – If you are looking for somewhere to catch up with friends in Chesterfield town centre, Peacocks Coffee Lounge is the ideal location with indoor and outdoor seating.

43. Koo – Located on Chatsworth Road, this venue is a popular location for brunching or catching up with friends over a coffee.

44. No 10 Tea Rooms – A successful family-run business, offering a professional friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere for all customers.

45. Café One – A place for people in the community to relax, drink great coffee while they meet a friend, get work done, or meet a loved one for some lunch.


Unique café experiences for food and drink

Owner of Qoozies serving funky milkshake and smoothie drinks

From pancakes to smoothies, and themed nights to sharing boards – these venues serve much more than just coffee and cake.

46. Qoozies – For something a little different, head to Qoozies for a funky milkshake or a healthy Qoozies Burger and a nutritious Smoothie.

47. Graze – A friendly café providing speciality and bistro nights for you to experience.

48. CAWA Coffee – The place to visit for filled savoury and sweet croissants, as well as delicious hot drinks. Products are baked fresh daily and they even roast their own coffee.

49. Cibo Bistro – A small friendly bistro kitchen serving meals, light bites, dessert, ice cream milkshakes and coffee.

50. Birdcage – An eatery crossed between a café and a bar, selling freshly ground coffee as well as alcoholic beverages and a variety of sweet treats.


 

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Chesterfield Waterside developer takes prestigious regional award

The company behind the multi-million pound Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme has won a prestigious regional award for another project in nearby Sheffield.

Bolsterstone Group PLC, based in our town scooped the Property Deal of The Year accolade at the Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards 2023 (21 September).

It recognises the £150 million of investment which was secured from Legal & General by regeneration specialist Bolsterstone in order to bring forward the first phase of the £300 million West Bar scheme in Sheffield City centre.

Held at New Dock Hall in Leeds, the Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards were hosted by world-cup winning former rugby union player Kyran Bracken MBE.

Judges of the awards acknowledged that the ‘West Bar development will be transformative for Sheffield.’

Peter Swallow, Managing Director of Bolsterstone Group PLC and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, collected the award at the black-tie event.

He said: “I am delighted that West Bar has been recognised. We are immensely proud of what we have achieved in conjunction with our partners. West Bar is a truly collaborative scheme that will deliver lasting and far-reaching change to Sheffield City centre.”

The Property Deal of The Year award is one of a number of awards that Bolsterstone’s projects have been shortlisted for in 2023.

The large floorplate grade A office – One Waterside Place – at the £360 million Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme was recently Highly Commended in the Regeneration and Restoration Project of the Year category in the 2023 East Midlands Property Awards.

Like West Bar, Chesterfield Waterside is a large-scale regeneration project. It is through its public/private partnership model that Bolsterstone is transforming cities and communities throughout the region, creating new places to live, work and invest.

Co-founded in Chesterfield in 1989 by Peter Swallow and Mike Corker, Bolsterstone has built a significant reputation as a regeneration specialist and is currently leading more than three quarters of a billion pounds of regeneration projects working alongside the public sector – current examples being West Bar, Chesterfield Waterside and New Bolton Woods in Bradford.

In addition to regeneration, Bolsterstone is also renowned for commercial and industrial developments, acquiring new sites and redeveloping existing sites for major names like B&Q, KFC, Aldi, UPS and Costa.

“Whether it’s a private or public partnership, our aim is to create places people want to live, work and invest throughout the UK,” Peter added.

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

Bolsterstone's Peter and Tom Swallow accepting the Property Deal of the Year Award

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East Midlands businesses tell Chamber what they want from next Government ahead of party conferences

Long-term strategies for energy and industry are top of the wishlist for the region’s businesses ahead of the next General Election, according to a new study by East Midlands Chamber.

Speeding up the rollout of full-fibre broadband and 5G connectivity, greater investment in road and rail infrastructure projects, and better incentives for upskilling and reskilling people followed closely behind as priorities.

The chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire asked businesses to provide views on 20 policy asks in its latest Quarterly Economic Survey, with the development of a long-term energy strategy for the UK ranking as being the most important.

Results were compiled to establish a list of top priorities for businesses, which has been published ahead of the upcoming Labour and Conservative party conferences in October.

Chris Hobson, director of policy and insight at East Midlands Chamber, said: “With a General Election drawing closer on the horizon, it’s hugely important for the voice of businesses to be heard by the next Government in order to drive sustainable economic growth that delivers jobs and prosperity.

“After many years of policy flip-flopping, economic shocks and the resulting uncertainty this has created for businesses, long-term planning appears to be front and centre of minds.

“A long-term energy strategy is understandably top of the list given the huge rise in utilities costs for firms and households over the past two years combined with the opportunities business see to deliver future solutions in this space. It’s closely followed by a comprehensive industrial strategy that finally addresses the UK’s perennial productivity problem – which is crucial to growing output, creating jobs and bringing down inflation.

“In our regional economic blueprint, A Centre of Trading Excellence: A Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond, launched in Westminster last year, we highlighted the importance of infrastructure – that is, both digital and transport – as one of ‘four Is’ to spearheading growth.

“Businesses are telling us they want to see real improvements across broadband and 5G connectivity, which are both crucial to 21st century working, while investing in our roads and rail is crucial to their future success – an important consideration at a time Government is deliberating over the future of HS2 and our region continues to be bottom of the pile for public transport investment.

“We have also spoken in our manifesto about ‘getting the basics right’ and ‘growing our competitiveness the right way’, and both these themes are reflected in our survey as firms tell us they want the broken business rates to be made fit for purpose and better incentives to support the net zero agenda.”

Policy priorities for East Midlands businesses

The responses on policy priorities were gathered by East Midlands Chamber in August and September 2023 as part of its Quarterly Economic Survey, in which 296 businesses across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire took part.

They were presented with a list of 20 policy asks of Government and asked to score them based on importance to their organisation, providing additional comments as to why. The top 10 priority areas, in order, were:

  • The development of a long-term Energy Strategy for the UK
  • The development of a long-term Industrial Strategy for the UK
  • Speeding up the rollout of full-fibre broadband
  • Greater investment in local infrastructure projects (road, rail)
  • More flexible/generous incentives for investment in staff development/reskilling (including application of Apprenticeship Levy)
  • Greater investment in major infrastructure projects (road, rail)
  • Speeding up the rollout of 5G technology
  • Comprehensive reform of the business rates system
  • Greater investment in integrated public transport networks
  • More flexible/generous incentives for developments associated with the green agenda.

Perfectly located in the centre of the UK with excellent connectivity to several major cities, find out why Chesterfield is a great location for your next business base.

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

Chris Hobson, East Midlands Chamber

Chris Hobson, Director of Policy and Insight, East Midlands Chamber

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University of Derby awarded prestigious Gold status for teaching excellence

The University of Derby has been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country.

The university, which has a campus in Chesterfield, was recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.

The TEF is a national scheme run by the Office for Students that aims to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most: teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

As well as achieving an overall rating of Gold, in the two underpinning ratings of the TEF, Derby was awarded Gold for student experience and Silver for student outcomes.

Derby’s continued success in the TEF, as it was awarded Gold when the Framework first launched in 2017, comes off the back of recent achievements in the National Student Survey 2023, in which the University was ranked in the Top 20 nationally for assessment and feedback, as well as in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, where the University was rated in the Top 20 for teaching quality, and in the Top 20 in the UK for overall student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2024.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted that we have once again been awarded Gold in the TEF and I am so proud of colleagues at the University of Derby for their hard work and commitment to excellence which has resulted in this fantastic achievement.

“Our students are at the heart of all that we do at the University of Derby, and we are fully focused on ensuring that they receive the highest-quality teaching and learning experience, one that is underpinned by innovation, academic excellence, ground-breaking research and is aligned to industry needs.

“We are proud to have established a strong reputation for learning and teaching over the years, reinforced by this TEF result, and we will continue to drive forward as an ambitious, applied university which focuses on enabling students to achieve the best possible outcomes for their future.”

The TEF ratings reflect the extent to which a provider delivers an excellent experience and outcomes for its mix of undergraduate students and across the range of its undergraduate courses and subjects. 228 providers took part in TEF 2023.

Professor Keith McLay, Provost – Learning & Teaching at the University of Derby, said: “Our approach to learning and teaching at Derby is one that is student-focused, tailored and inclusive, to ensure our students get an outstanding experience during their time with us and that they are challenged to fulfil their full potential.

“We have invested significantly in our learning and teaching frameworks and take seriously our role in providing students with not only state-of-the-art facilities, but ensuring they are surrounded by academic rigour, excellence and expertise. We are therefore delighted with this result.”

In 2017, the University of Derby was awarded a Gold rating in the country’s first TEF. The 2023 TEF results last for four years.

To find out more about studying at the University of Derby, visit derby.ac.uk.

Learn more about learning in Chesterfield.

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

derby uni nursing students st helena chesterfield

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Family-friendly fireworks event to return to Chesterfield’s Stand Road Park

Chesterfield Borough Council is again working with Chesterfield Football Club to deliver the family-friendly fireworks event in Stand Road Park.

1866 Sport, Chesterfield FC’s in-house radio station, will deliver the entertainment at this year’s event with Becky Measures hosting on the night. Confirmed acts include the return of the Disney Princesses performing well-known songs. The fireworks theme will be decades, with the display set to popular sing-along songs from the 60s through to present day.

The event takes place on Friday 3 November, the gates will open at 4.30pm and the event ends at 9pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “It is fantastic to be working with Chesterfield Football Club and Becky Measures again to put on this popular family friendly event. We’re excited that some of the popular acts from last year are returning including the meet and greet with the Disney Princesses – come along early to make sure you don’t miss the chance to win Disney on Ice tickets. Please wrap up warm, wear suitable footwear and join in the family fun.”

Bridget Ball, Chesterfield FC’s marketing manager, said: “We are delighted to be working with Chesterfield Borough Council once again. We will be promoting the event via 1866 Sport in the build-up and then delivering some great entertainment on the night. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Becky Measures added: “I am so looking forward to hosting what is probably the biggest event in Chesterfield. I had a the pleasure of hosting this event for many years in my Peak FM days and I can’t wait to be back with the community of Chesterfield and my home town. The event at Stand Road has always been the one to look forward to and I’m honoured to be a part of it.”

Entry to the event is £3 per person but free for children under five. Entry is cash only and please make sure you bring the correct money as change cannot be given.

This is a family friendly event, alcohol, fireworks and sparklers are prohibited items and will be confiscated if found.

Parking for the event will be available at Chesterfield FC’s SMH Group Stadium for a donation of £5 per car, which will help cover the cost of stewards with any excess being given to Chesterfield FC Community Trust.

There is also a bus stop on Sheffield Road which is less than a two-minute walk from the park, find more details about bus services that stop here on the Stagecoach website.

The fireworks extravaganza is one of a series of events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council. Find out more about upcoming events taking place across the town here.

More information about entertainment and safety at the event will be available on the Chesterfield Borough Council website.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Stand Road Fireworks

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New £1 million car dealership to open in Chesterfield

Bristol Street Motors is investing over £1 million in a brand-new MG dealership in Chesterfield.

This marks Bristol Street Motors’ third MG dealership, with existing locations in Carlisle and Beaconsfield. It is the fourth MG dealership for the brand’s wider group, which has had Macklin Motors Edinburgh MG operating since early last year.

Bristol Street Motors says its Chesterfield MG centre is set to be a ‘game-changer’ in the Chesterfield automotive landscape, offering a comprehensive range of new MG vehicles and exceptional aftersales service.

The dealership’s location, based on Chatsworth Road, has operated as a Vauxhall franchise since 2007. The aftersales facilities have been repositioned to a separate area on the premises, which has enabled the historic service bays to be repurposed into a spacious seven-car MG showroom, showcasing the brand’s innovative and dynamic line-up.

The establishment of Bristol Street Motors Chesterfield MG has created local employment, as the dealership is actively recruiting for three newly-created roles. The brand’s investment demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the local economy and underlines its role as a catalyst for growth within the area.

Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Bristol Street Motors, commented on the significant investment, saying: “We have witnessed MG’s remarkable success over the last few years, and we are excited to bring this brand’s excellence to Chesterfield.

“Our decision to invest in this new dealership underscores our confidence in both the MG brand and the vibrant economy of Chesterfield. As MG garners awards and recognition, we are proud to be part of its journey.”

MG, a prominent name in the automotive industry, has won an impressive 26 awards in the last three years alone, a testament to its commitment to innovation and quality.

The brand’s noteworthy achievements extend to its market presence, achieving the second-highest market share growth in the first half of 2023, capturing a 1.59% slice of European registrations.

Chesterfield is excellently located, sitting on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park, with superb connections to several major UK cities. Find out more about the range of investment opportunities available in the town.

Vertu_Chesterfield_Team

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Plans for the regeneration of Staveley town centre released as additional funding confirmed

Revised proposals for the multi-million-pound regeneration of Staveley town centre have been released by Chesterfield Borough Council, following Government approval to allocate additional funding to the project.

The six-million-pound Staveley 21 project has been in development over the last year following publication of the Staveley Town Centre Vision Masterplan which received strong public support in November 2021.

The proposals – which are funded through the Staveley Town Deal – were shared at a meeting of Staveley Town Council on Tuesday night.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We know everyone has been keen to see the council’s proposals for Staveley town centre and I’m delighted that we are now able to share these. As a package the proposals seek to enhance the town centre – opening it up for new uses that will encourage more people to visit whilst also supporting existing retailers, market traders and high street businesses.”

A range of visuals have been prepared to bring the proposals to life with a particular focus on the new pavilion building and how the marketplace will look and could be used by different audiences.

Staveley Pavilion Building artist impression

The new pavilion building sits between the Staveley Miners Welfare building and Staveley High Street. Of modern design but one that is also reflective of Staveley’s heritage, the building will form a striking new focal point in the heart of the town centre. Several uses for the building are currently being considered including as a potential site for Derbyshire County Council’s relocation of Staveley library and also for retail, leisure, and business start-up uses.

As an enlarged public open space, the marketplace will be designed as a flexible environment to support existing uses such as Staveley Town Council’s regular markets but also as a setting that can be used to host a wide range of new events to encourage more people to visit the town centre.

Tiered outdoor seating will be introduced to support outdoor theatre and open-air cinema screenings, and play equipment installed to help make the marketplace more attractive to families.

New paving, lighting, street furniture and planting will help create an enhanced atmosphere and visitor experience at any time of day or night whilst new signage will help connect the town centre with Staveley’s other visitor attractions including the Chesterfield Canal and Staveley Hall.

Staveley town centre regeneration artist impression

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, continued: “Town centres across the country are changing and our proposals reflect this need to adapt. We have already secured a main contractor to deliver the project and our aim is to achieve planning permission in Spring 2024. In line with the Government’s requirements, we plan to be on site in Autumn 2024 and for all of the construction work to have been completed by the end of 2025.

“Ahead of this, we are committed to carrying out extensive engagement on the proposals to ensure that we capture the views of all stakeholders and make appropriate adjustments ahead of submitting the necessary planning application.”

“We’re also still seeking applications for the shop front grant scheme which we launched in February. A total sum of £600k is available to support shop owners and landlords to make improvements to their premises.”

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The delivery of the Staveley 21 project is a big first step towards realising the Staveley Town Centre Vision Masterplan which received strong public support in November 2021. It’s exciting to see Chesterfield Borough Council move the project forward move into this next phase, which reflects the Staveley Town Deal Board’s vision and ambition for Staveley town centre. These are significant proposals which will ensure Staveley town centre is a place where local people and visitors will want to spend time whilst also supporting local businesses to grow not only now but in the future.”

Updates about the Staveley 21 project, details about drop-in sessions for residents and businesses, and information on the Shop Front Improvement Grant Scheme will be available on the council’s website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-21

Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal.

Chesterfield is perfectly located, with excellent transport links to enable your business to grow. To find out more about available opportunities in the area, go to our Invest in Chesterfield page.

Staveley town centre regeneration plans from above artist impression

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

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