About Chesterfield

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

10 walks to make the most of our great outdoors

With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Chesterfield offers a treasure trove of easy walks, perfect for getting outdoors.

Are you looking for somewhere different to take your dog? Maybe you fancy a stroll through town combined with a spot of shopping? Or what about a peaceful meander to spot friendly wildlife and beautiful flora?

Whatever your reason, we’ve picked ten delightful spots for you to explore, each offering unique charm and beauty. As well as suggesting nearby eateries to pop into for a quick rest or to warm up from the winter’s cold.

So put on your warmest pair of boots, wrap up in a cosy coat, and grab the dog’s lead; these walks are set to help you soak in the magic of winter.

If you’d like to recommend more easy walks to be featured here, please let Alex Baddley know by emailing Alex.Baddley@chesterfield.co.uk.

If you’re short on time use our quick links below to jump to the section that interests you the most.

1. Get outdoors in our historic town centre

queens park ariel shot

Start your adventure at the iconic Crooked Spire, a must-see landmark. If you have time, book a tour around the church and up the tower for stunning views over the town.

Take a leisurely walk through our vibrant town centre, looking up to enjoy our black-and-white architecture. Wander through the bustling Chesterfield Market, known for its specialist events and local produce. Afterwards, nip into The Shambles and The Yards for hidden shopping gems and local art.

Chesterfield’s historic shopping streets are complemented by a modern, outdoor shopping centre at Vicar Lane. And of course, the indoor Pavements Shopping Centre offers a range of independent retailers for you to browse.

Walk west to West Bars and walk under the Royal Mail office. Before you reach the bridge, spot one of the largest and most impressive public artworks locally – Angela Conner’s Poise (Wind Sculpture). Divided into six segments, see if you can see it moving gently back and forward.

Cross over the bridge to Queen’s Park, where you can relax by the pond and watch the world go by, or enjoy a spot of cricket. Meet at the bandstand every other Thursday at 10:30 am to join the MindSpace – Chesterfield Walk and Talk Group.

For those wanting to extend their walk, exit the park towards Chatsworth Road for the suburban charm of independent shops and cafés. Continue for Inkerman Park, Manor Fields, Somersall Park and Walton Dam.

2. Peaceful Holmebrook Valley Park

Take a stroll through over 140 acres of picturesque parkland to feel as though you’re far away from the hustle and bustle, despite only being a ten minute drive from Chesterfield town centre.

A highlight feature, the stunning lake at Holmebrook Valley is a peaceful spot for a circular walk, surrounded by greenery. Take a moment to rest on one of the many benches scattered around the lake while listening to the calming sounds of nature.

Paths at Holmebrook Valley are smooth and well-signposted, although be aware that the toilets and cafe are at the top of the hill.

3. Tranquil Chesterfield Canal

Enjoy a serene walk along the peaceful towpath of the Chesterfield Canal, known as The Cuckoo Way with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.

The flat route from the Canal Basin at Chesterfield Railway to Staveley is perfect for an easy walk. As well as featuring some of the oldest staircase locks ever built, significant restoration has been carried out along the canal since 1989 including two new marinas.

And the future is exciting, with work in progress to extend the canal by half a mile from Hartington Harbour onto the Staveley Puddlebank, and two miles of multi-use towpath all the way to Renishaw.

Enhance your experience with a delightful cruise on a Tripboat from Hollingwood Hub or Tapton Lock.

At Tapton Lock try Spanish cuisine at Casa Hotel or a variety of artisan dishes from The Batch House, opposite the home of Chesterfield FC.

Stop off at Katey’s Coffee Shop when you reach Hollingwood.

While shopping in Staveley, enjoy historic landmarks from Staveley Hall to Mill Green Bridge and the beautiful Chesterfield Canal on the Staveley Walking Trail.

4. Linacre Reservoirs

Linacre Reservoir

Escape to the peaceful Linacre Reservoirs, a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, the reservoir offers a network of easy paths ideal for a gentle stroll. Enjoy the serene water views, spot local wildlife, and breathe the fresh country air.

Dogs love to explore and play in the woodland. It’s a five-mile route covering all three shimmering reservoirs and surrounding streams, and there are plenty of side tracks to discover too – if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous.

5. Scenic Monsal Trail

Dog friendly days out. Family walking on scenic trail with dog

Monsal Trail offers a picturesque walk through the Peak District, with gentle walking through a former railway line. Enjoy stunning countryside views, cross impressive viaducts, and explore old railway tunnels.

From Hassop station, the route to the right has the wow factor. Leading you through an old railway tunnel, the path opens onto an old railway bridge overlooking the lush Peak District greenery. It’s a there-and-back route – so you can walk as far as six miles if you have the time or shorten the walk for more relaxed days. And there are toilets and cafes along the way.

6. Breathtaking views from Birchen Edge to Chatsworth

Courtesy of Chatsworth House Trust’ DPC Photography

This walk combines panoramic countryside views with a touch of history. Start your journey at Birchen Edge and follow the trail through enchanting woodlands and open moorlands for reflection and relaxation. As you walk, take a moment to admire the Three Ships – three large gritstone rocks etched with the names of famous naval ships.

Your journey ends at the magnificent Chatsworth House with beautiful woodland surrounding the house. Why not stop for a well-deserved tea at the estate café?

7. Explore Hardwick Hall and surrounding woodland

Child playing in front of Hardwick Hall in summer

Explore the surroundings of Hardwick Hall – one of England’s finest Elizabethan houses. Find beautifully landscaped gardens and gentle walking paths that allow you to soak in the grandeur of the hall and its surroundings.

Take your time to explore the woodland trails, although be aware that there are hills to navigate.

Hardwick Hall offers many architectural and artistic delights from Elizabethan tapestries to Forties furnishings. Afterwards, rest in the café with a local treat, or enjoy a picnic with a view of the magnificent house.

8. An adventure along the Five Pits Trail

Five Pits Trail- Cycling in Chesterfield

Discover the Five Pits Trail, a five point five mile path that follows the old railway lines that once served the local coal mines, with informative signposts to learn about the area’s coal mining history along the way.

The trail is flat and well-maintained. As you walk, you pass peaceful woodlands and open fields and plenty of birds and butterflies.

9. Nature haven Poolsbrook Country Park

Poolsbrook

Another flat route to take at your own pace, this tranquil spot at Poolsbrook Country Park is home to swans, ducks and woodland birds. So, do bring along your binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.

Take a gentle stroll around the lake. Then pause on one of the benches to soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re feeling peckish, the park’s café offers refreshments, or bring a picnic to share.

10. Hidden gem Edges and Ales

If you’re up for the challenge, you can start a hilly 8.5-mile circular walk from either Millthorpe or Linacre Reservoir, and make your way past four pubs along the way: Royal Oak at Millthrope, Tickled Trout at Commonside, Three Merry Lads at Cutthorpe, and The Peacock  at Cutthorpe.

As well as the chance to stop off for a quick drink, this fantastic route also passes multiple cultural heritage sites like Cartledge Hall, Great Brind Wood, and Pratthall. Plus, if you finish at Linacre, you can pop over to Cutthorpe Creamery Farm Shop and grab yourself some fresh milk or milkshake!

Are you inspired by our easy walks to get you exploring outdoors?

Group of walkers taking part in Chesterfield Area Walking Festival

Ready to get active, enjoy nature, and explore the town’s rich history? Then put on your walking shoes and embrace the beauty around our town.

If you know others who would enjoy easy walks to make the most of the great outdoors? Share this blog post with them and on social media, if you found it helpful. Also, we love to see your photos. So, please tag us in on our Facebook or Instagram pages using the handle @chesterfielduk.

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

£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

Chesterfield careers programme celebrates inspiring young people for two years

A pioneering project designed to provide local people with valuable work experience and career insights has reached a significant milestone – supporting more than 730 young people over the last two years.

The Careers Made in Chesterfield (CMiC) programme, which launched in 2023, delivers careers education, advice and guidance, and directly links young people, parents, teachers and carers to local opportunities from Chesterfield’s property and construction, manufacturing and engineering and social care sectors.

CMiC is a key part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan which aims to ensure that local people have the right skills to support their career progression and benefit from future employment opportunities.

The CMiC workshop programme is delivered in local schools and the Chesterfield Youth Hub by the Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), and over the last two years it has:

  • Hosted nine workshops engaging with 732 individuals across the programme
  • Provided experiences of work for 49 individuals including visits to large council regeneration projects including Stephenson Memorial Hall and the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project which has included town centre regeneration works.
  • Supported 44 professionals across 28 businesses and organisations including Frank Shaw Associates, Rodgers Leask, Met Office, University of Derby, Nottingham Trent University, Chesterfield College, Fortem, and the Environment Agency to name a few.

Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at Direct Education Business Partnership, said: “CMiC is now entering its third year, and we are incredibly proud of how it’s grown. Each year, it expands to include more job sectors, introducing students to a wider range of career options.  One of the best parts of the programme is working closely with local employers.  This provides students with first-hand insights into the skills, qualifications, and pathways required to secure employment directly from local industry professionals.”

Chesterfield College has supported the CMiC programme by delivering the Chesterfield to Eat Well sessions to two local schools – Springwell Community College and Parkside Community School – focussing on the benefits of eating healthily and how to cook low budget meals at home. 74 students have engaged with sessions over the last two years.

Six encounters between local teachers and businesses have resulted from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) facilitating teacher encounter sessions over the last two years, taking Chesterfield teachers out of the classroom and allowing them to visit different workplaces to see what different careers and opportunities are available for our young people.

Funding from EMCCA Careers Hub has also allowed Chesterfield Borough Council to engage with 328 individuals at apprenticeship and technical information events in the last two years, delivered within different communities in Chesterfield to raise awareness of apprenticeship and T-level opportunities locally to parents and carers.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Allowing young people to make informed decisions about their future career paths by creating work placement opportunities, engaging with local businesses and attending workshops where they can ask employers questions directly is really important to allow them to understand what skills they will need to develop their learning.

“The Careers Made in Chesterfield programme has had a fantastic second year. The collaboration between schools and businesses, allows students to find out more about the options open to them in the workplace.

“If you’re a local business, I would encourage you to find out more about the scheme because it will help guide young people to into industries in the future, benefiting both them individually and the wider local economy.”

Diane Beresford, Deputy CEO of East Midlands Chamber, and Chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership said: “6 out of 10 East Midlands businesses say they have difficulty recruiting suitable staff, according to the findings of the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey, which really underlines the importance of getting people upskilled. Maximising skillset when young is a gift to employers who want candidates that can hit the ground running.

“The Careers Made in Chesterfield programme is that bridge that brings young people’s thought processes into close alignment with the needs of businesses – what are the skills I need to prioritise; what line of work would best suit me; what should I do about getting there? Getting insight like that at a young age is invaluable really.”

Discover more about supporting careers activity in Chesterfield by sigining up to our email updates.

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

Breathing new life into a communal garden

Green-fingered tenants in Chesterfield have been busy breathing new life into their communal garden – creating a vibrant space for neighbours to come together.

Tenants at Glebe Court in Old Whittington, which is an independent living scheme owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, have been able to transform the shared outdoor space after they secured £200 in funding from Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s ‘Feeling Connected’ funding stream.

The funding has enabled the purchase of plants, bird feeders and gardening equipment, all of which have contributed to a greener, more welcoming environment for the residents to enjoy.

To make the garden accessible to all, tenants have also repurposed old trestle tables from the recently-regenerated Chesterfield Market to create raised planting beds – ensuring that those with mobility needs can take part in the transformation project too and enjoy the communal area to its full potential.

Further funding has also been secured by the tenants to buy some water butts, allowing rainwater to be recycled to help maintain the outdoor space.

Initially led by two of the scheme’s residents, the project has blossomed into a vibrant community project, with more tenants getting involved and helping to enhance the outdoor space.

Tenants have already noticed a marked increase in bird activity and have commented on how much more pleasant the garden feels.

Tenants Ian and Julie have been heavily involved in the transformation of the communal garden. They said: “When we first moved in we noticed that the garden was more landscaped, and we talked with other tenants about turning it into a native wildlife garden as it was all sterile before and didn’t really attract wildlife.

“People now sit outside and listen to the birds and enjoy looking at the flowers, it makes people feel happy.”

Margret is another one of the tenants who has been involved with the project. She said: “I’ve always loved gardening and had to leave a lot of plants at my old house when I moved here. It’s good to have help from other tenants as it can be harder for me to garden now and we help each other out with equipment, plants and different tasks. Carl, one of my neighbours at Glebe Court, has helped me with planting and watering.  Some of us will have trips out to the garden centre too, to choose plants for the garden.

“I can see the garden from my flat window and it looks nice. We have more wildlife in the garden now too, including birds, squirrels and even an owl who visits.”

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “It’s been fantastic to see tenants at Glebe Court coming together to transform their communal garden and I’m looking forward to visiting soon so I can see what they have achieved.

“As well as creating a more vibrant area, this project has also created opportunities to socialise more, with tenants gathering more frequently than they usually would to work collaboratively to create a space that they can all enjoy together.

“As part of our commitment to tackling loneliness and social isolation, all of our independent living schemes offer communal areas to allow residents to come together, so it’s great to see that this space is being enjoyed and the tenants are transforming it into an area that they can be proud of.”

Encouraged by the success of the initial improvements, tenants are now applying for additional funding to allow them to continue working together to develop the garden.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

New exhibition celebrates Chesterfield’s railway heritage

Railway Town is a free exhibition that will be hosted at the Winding Wheel Theatre from Tuesday 7 October until Wednesday 29 October and open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 1pm and from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Marking the 200th anniversary of the modern railway the exhibition will explore the history of Chesterfield’s three railway lines, the connection to industries in Brampton and the town’s connection with the father of the railways, George Stephenson.

There will also be a series of talks about the history of the railways, including an illustrated slideshow presentation by Stephen Gay on Saturday 18 October, this explores his favourite railway lines – featuring stories of his adventures with his faithful German Shepherd dog Wrawby, historical information, poetry readings and lots of laughs.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The development of railways helped industries in Chesterfield to grow. And of course, we have a special connection with George Stephenson with him choosing to spend his final years in our town.

“This exhibition will help you explore this history and understand the incredible impact the railways have had in our town and with this year being an important anniversary of the rail industry there has never been a better time to uncover this history.”

Photographs and maps that are included in this exhibition have been shared by The Intrepids, a railway walking group.

This exhibition is part of Museum on the Move, which aims to ensure that whilst Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre are closed for refurbishment residents and visitors can still connect with our borough’s history and culture.

This is the latest event in Chesterfield to celebrate Railway 200.  Barrow Hill Roundhouse near Chesterfield will also host a spectacular three-day gala this October.

From Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October 2025, visitors will experience a once-in-a-generation celebration at the UK’s only surviving operational railway roundhouse. The event will feature iconic locomotives, including the legendary A3 60103 “Flying Scotsman”, which will be on display and hauling trains across the weekend.

Discover more events happening in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Half term, Home, Leisure

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is being given a new lease of life

The refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is progressing rapidly and will create an enhanced community building with healthcare facilities.

Barrow Hill Community Trust is leading the multi-million pound refurbishment of its historic home which is partly funded by the Staveley Town Deal.

The construction began in January 2025 and has progressed quickly with the installation of a new roof and skylight, a new heating system for the whole building and the internal layout of the building has been adapted to create healthcare facilities and an expanded community space.

The next phase of works will see internal walls finished, a kitchen fitted out, the relaying of historic parquet flooring and works to finish the ground floor – ready to welcome the community back in December 2025.

The first phase of works is funded by the Staveley Town Deal and a recent visit showed how much progress has been made.

The first phase of works, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, is focussed on the ground floor, and work to protect the building. It includes the installation of a new roof and skylight which will help brighten up a new community café bar, the creation of new spaces which will be used for healthcare provision, and improvements to essential systems in the building which will allow it to be a valuable community facility for many years to come.

Barrow Hill Community Trust has big plans for future phases of the project with other external funding being used to create a new community reading room, a venue suitable for live music and events, a family centre, and an enhanced space for youth provision.

Discover more about Staveley Town Deal Projects

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

City and Guilds present Excellence Award to Chesterfield College Group this National Manufacturing Day

Chesterfield College Group is absolutely delighted to have received an End Point Assessment Excellence Award from Awarding Body City and Guilds in recognition for exceptional apprenticeship success rates.

With several areas registering 100% success rates including Fabrication Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Metal Fabrication and Data Technician, the college’s long standing reputation for quality apprenticeship training is going from strength to strength.

Jonathan Price, City & Guilds Business Development Manager – Central North explains, “City & Guilds are proud to partner Chesterfield College and recognise their fantastic EPA achievements. The college has well above benchmark success rates and the work staff do to make sure apprentices are looked after from day 1. The commitment to the apprentices and to support local and regional employers is clear to see. It is no surprise to see growth in apprenticeships year on year. The college also work hard to make sure the right learners go on to the right apprenticeships which has had a fantastic impact on retention and success rates.”

Director of Engineering, Digital and Services to Business at Chesterfield College Group, Rhys Robinson explains, “I am incredibly proud of the dedication, hard work, and commitment shown by our team in supporting both apprentices and employers. Their efforts have led to a significant increase in retention and success rates, with over 100 successful EPA achievements facilitated through City & Guilds last year alone. Being recognised for excellence in EPA is a fantastic honour, and it reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality programmes that develop the future workforce.”

If you’re interested in taking on an apprentice in your business, Chesterfield College Group can provide a clear, uncomplicated path for you to follow. Take a look at the college’s hub of information for employers here.

If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, then why not take a look at the subjects on offer here? An interview with Chesterfield College is all it takes to add you to our talent pool of next-generation talent for employers to choose from.

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

Chesterfield celebrates National Manufacturing Day

Over 100 students from five schools got an exciting behind-the-scenes look at Chesterfield’s leading manufacturers as part of the first large-scale National Manufacturing Day event in Derbyshire.

Organised as part of the Made in Chesterfield Festival with support from the Work-wise Foundation, Destination Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire Council, the event coincided with Make UK’s nationwide open house on 25 September, when manufacturers across the UK opened their doors to students, communities and the public.

Pupils from The Bolsover School, Tupton Hall, Parkside Community School, Springwell Community College and Early Life Enterprise visited United Cast Bar, CBE+, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd, Penny Engineering and Weightron Bilanciai Ltd.

The day included factory tours, hands-on workshops, and an Innovation Challenge in the morning, with students presenting their ideas at Barrow Hill Roundhouse in the afternoon. Participants discovered a variety of manufacturing processes, as well as insights into engineering, design, and project management.

Event organiser, David Beet from United Cast Bar Ltd, said: “National Manufacturing Day is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and innovation happening right here in Chesterfield and Derbyshire. It’s inspiring to see young people so engaged and excited about the career possibilities in manufacturing.”

Nick Catt, Managing Director at Weightron Bilanciai Ltd and board member for Destination Chesterfield, added, “Here in Chesterfield, we’re proud to be part of a community that not only makes world-class products but also invests in the next generation of talent. Events like the Innovation Challenge for National Manufacturing Day demonstrate to young people that manufacturing isn’t just about machines, but also about ideas and collaboration.  It was fantastic to see so many schools taking part and businesses opening their doors and minds to inspire tomorrow’s engineers and creators.  What a great way to launch this year’s Made in Chesterfield Festival.”

National Manufacturing Day celebrates the diversity of UK manufacturing and helps strengthen connections between education and industry, supporting the development of the skilled workforce needed for the future.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “National Manufacturing Day is a fantastic opportunity for local young people to learn more about industries right here in Chesterfield.

“Initiatives like Made in Chesterfield provide us with the opportunity to work in partnership with businesses and the community sector so we can help local people develop the skills to progress in their careers or access new opportunities as they become available.

“Chesterfield Borough Council prides itself on the relationships that have been formed between schools and businesses, allowing students to find out more about the options open to them in the workplace.”

North East Derbyshire District Council Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Cllr Jayne Barry, said, “This is a great opportunity for our next generation of innovators to get hands-on with employers, opening new doors and insights into the world of work.

“As a council, we are passionate about helping our local economy grow and provide real chances of high-skilled employment for our communities, and this festival does just that.”

The Made in Chesterfield Festival runs until the end of October, providing young people with the opportunity to learn more about manufacturing and engineering careers in Chesterfield.

Made in Chesterfield is organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership in association with Chesterfield College and supported by Chesterfield Borough Council, the EMCCA Career Hub, United Cast Bar Ltd and MSE Hiller.

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

Capital Angling hooks unit at Markham Vale

Capital Angling has snapped up the first unit at ARK, a new £27million GDV scheme at Markham Vale, a flagship industrial scheme delivered by HBD, part of Henry Boot.

The leading fishing brand has taken a 17,050sq ft unit at the sustainable new industrial and logistics (I&L) development close to the M1 in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Work began on-site in Spring 2025 to deliver the first phase of ARK, which includes four units ranging from 17,000sq ft to 36,000sq ft. The buildings will complete later this year.

ARK is being developed by Origin, a joint venture partnership between HBD and Feldberg Capital.

Origin is committed to delivering ESG-compliant I&L space and ARK is no exception, with all four units targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings.

HBD recently submitted a planning application for the final 53,000sq ft unit at the scheme. Work is expected to begin on-site later this year subject to planning consent.

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is an attractive location for fast-growing businesses like Capital Angling, which can take advantage of its strategic location right off the M1 and its excellent infrastructure. We’re pleased to be able to provide the business with high-quality, sustainable space as it continues to expand; we’ve no doubt that ARK will prove a very successful location.”

Jamie Acheson, Managing Director of Feldberg Capital, commented: “Securing Capital Angling as our first pre-let at ARK marks an important milestone for the development, with their decision validating our focus on delivering best-in-class, sustainable industrial and logistics space in strategic UK locations. We look forward to building on this success over the coming months as we approach practical completion.”

Markham Vale is a landmark 200-acre I&L scheme delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. An award-winning development, it sits at the heart of the motorway network with direct access to the M1 via J29a. More than 2,600 new jobs have been created since work began, with occupiers including Great Bear and Sterigenics.

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

Pandora opens new concept store at Vicar Lane

The world’s largest jewellery brand, Pandora, is set to unveil its brand-new store on Thursday 27th September at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, marking the first letting for Street Anchor Evolve who purchased the centre in June 2025.

The new concept store has been designed to showcase Pandora’s craftsmanship, creativity, and contemporary style in a fresh and immersive environment. Visitors will be able to explore Pandora’s latest jewellery lines, discover custom styling options, and enjoy a welcoming in-store experience tailored to inspire self-expression.

To celebrate the launch, the first 50 My Pandora members through the door at 10.00am will receive a £30 Pandora gift voucher, making the opening day extra special for early visitors.

Sarah Bowler, Centre Manager: “We’re thrilled to welcome Pandora as the first leƫng under Street Anchor Evolve’s ownership. This opening strengthens our commitment to offering customers a vibrant mix of global brands and unique shopping experiences right here in Chesterfield.”

Pandora adds to the vibrant mix of popular high street brands and independent retailers at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, helping to enhance the centre’s reputation as the go-to destination for shopping in the region.

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