Business

Mayor sets out £4.8m boost for East Midlands tourism and investment

25th November 2025

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward has unveiled plans for the new Visit East Midlands and Invest East Midlands programmes to strengthen the region’s profile and drive growth.

The initiatives will spotlight the East Midlands as both a leading UK visitor destination and a prime investment region, and were signed off by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board on the 24th November. EMCCA will provide £4.8 million in baseline funding over the next two years to strengthen the visitor economy, support local businesses, and attract new investment into Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

The move supports the newly published East Midlands Growth Plan and is expected to help EMCCA leverage further Government and private sector contributions as it works towards its £13 billion growth ambition.

A unified approach to promotion and growth

A new Visit East Midlands partnership will be formed to promote the region’s attractions, develop new experiences, build a clear identity for the area and deliver coordinated campaigns to encourage more visitors from the UK and internationally.

Running alongside it, Invest East Midlands will work with partners to attract new businesses and investment, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “Visit East Midlands was something I promised to deliver when I was elected, because working together as one region is how we put the East Midlands back on the map. We won’t grow if we don’t work together to achieve it – and this moment is a key milestone in defining how that collaborative work will look when it comes to attracting visitors and boosting investment.

“The investment we are making to set this in motion puts in place the building blocks to power our regional economy and will be the foundation for future investment. We will work hard to ensure this investment pays off.”

Strengthening regional identity

The decision follows a review into how economic development functions,including visitor economy, business support and inward investment, are currently organised across the region. With the UK Shared Prosperity Fund due to end in March, the review highlighted the need for improved coordination and a clearer regional identity and brand.

In response, EMCCA will invest in three major programmes:

Invest East Midlands – Driving regional effort through working with partners such as Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Marketing Derby, Destination Chesterfield and Freeport to bring in new investment and support business growth.
Visit East Midlands – Promoting the region, working with partners such as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire and Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to grow the visitor economy and develop new visitor experiences and campaigns.
East Midlands Growth Hub – Providing support and advice to help local businesses start and grow, delivered in partnership with universities and the private sector.

Detailed plans for each programme will now be developed with regional investment and visitor economy partners, councils, businesses and national organisations.

Mayor Claire Ward continued: “I will continue fighting for more investment to come into this region so we can deliver real change. This new approach will ensure the East Midlands gets the attention, recognition and money it needs to help me do that.”

Chair of EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board, David Williams, said: “I welcome the Mayor’s decisive action to use EMCCA funds to invest in the future of the East Midlands. In a time where funding is challenging, this commitment will enable us to strengthen our regional economy, enhance our visitor offer and create the conditions for sustainable business growth, driving prosperity for communities and businesses alike, strengthening the positioning of the East Midlands as a leading destination for investment and tourism.”

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

Sheet Anchor Evolve expands Chesterfield portfolio

25th November 2025

Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, has completed the acquisition of 9, 11–13 Market Place in Chesterfield, further strengthening its investment presence in the town. The property comprises two retail units, let to Card Factory and Primark, occupying a prominent position in the heart of Chesterfield.

This latest purchase follows Sheet Anchor Evolve’s acquisition of Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in June this year, as part of its ongoing commitment to invest in and enhance Chesterfield’s town centre offering.

Chris Daly, Director at Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core said, “This acquisition builds on our long-term investment in Chesterfield and reflects our confidence in the town’s continued evolution. We’re increasingly focused on creating mixed-use environments that bring together retail, leisure, workspace, and residential elements.

“At Vicar Lane, we’re currently undertaking a strategic review to explore how we can enhance the tenant mix, improve public spaces, and introduce complementary uses. Our goal is to ensure the centre continues to serve the community while remaining relevant and resilient for the long term”.

Sam Cohen, Asset Manager at Sheet Anchor Evolve, will oversee the management of the property. The transaction was completed by solicitor Andrea Livingstone of Clarke Willmott on behalf of the landlord, with Brad Maher from Cited acting as agent.

For further opportunities at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, contact Sam Cohen at scohen@saevolve.com

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

Local Champions continue to grow

24th November 2025

Local businesses are thriving as several homegrown companies expand their services, launch new offerings, and bring innovative solutions to our region. From workplace wellbeing to technology consulting and iconic property acquisitions, Chesterfield is proving to be a hub for entrepreneurial growth.

Central Technology expands with new North West office in Warrington

Central Technology (CT) has opened a new office in Warrington, marking the company’s fourth location and a key milestone in its growth across the UK. The new office will enable CT to better serve clients in the North West and strengthen its regional presence.

Founded in Chesterfield, Central Technology has built a reputation for delivering innovative IT solutions and technology services to businesses across a range of sectors. Since its launch, they have focused on helping organisations modernise infrastructure, streamline operations, and adopt cutting-edge technology to drive growth.

The company has steadily expanded, establishing offices in key locations to stay close to clients and regional markets.

The Warrington office represents the next step in this expansion, providing a local hub for businesses seeking expert technology support. The team looks forward to building relationships with clients in the area and exploring new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

On-Site workplace pain and injury relief to Chesterfield businesses

Chesterfield businesses now have access to professional pain and injury relief delivered directly on-site, thanks to a new workplace programme from The Body Health Centre. The service helps teams stay healthy, mobile, and pain-free throughout the working day.

The Body Health Centre’s experienced therapists specialise in targeted treatments for workplace-related aches and injuries. From desk-based tension and repetitive strain to physically demanding roles, they help teams:

Reduce aches, stiffness, and fatigue
Prevent work-related injuries
Improve posture and mobility
Boost staff morale and productivity

Businesses can book flexible options, including one-off wellbeing days or regular workplace visits.

Services include on-site sports massage and soft tissue therapy, postural and movement assessments, injury prevention support, and workplace ergonomics advice. Each session is tailored to the business and its team, combining clinical expertise with practical results.

The team delivers evidence-based care and rehabilitation, offering the same professional standard as clinic treatments. Workplaces benefit from fewer sick days, improved energy and focus, and a healthier, happier workforce.

Businesses in Chesterfield and surrounding areas can book a workplace visit or find out more by calling 01246 860317 or emailing tbhc7@outlook.com.

BHP launches expert technology consulting service for Chesterfield SMEs

Chesterfield small and medium-sized businesses can now access specialist technology leadership through a new consultancy from leading accountancy firm BHP.

The Information and Technology Consulting service gives SMEs access to experienced technology leaders without having to hire a full-time IT director. It helps businesses define and deliver tailored technology strategies, either as part of a wider business plan or as a standalone project.

The initiative is led by technology experts Carolyn Pearson and Jim Stott. Carolyn has international experience with the BBC, ITV, easyJet, and KLM, specialising in technical development, programme delivery, and large-scale transformation. Jim brings board-level experience, aligning technology strategy with business outcomes across software development, infrastructure, and service delivery.

Melanie Foster, BHP’s chief information officer, said:
“Technology drives business growth, but SMEs often struggle to know when and how to invest. Our service provides expert guidance to help businesses build value, accelerate growth, improve efficiency, and use data to make informed decisions.”

Mark Roberts, head of consulting at BHP, added:
“Carolyn and Jim bring real-world experience in growth strategy and transformation. Our flexible model delivers expert technology leadership without the cost of a full-time director, letting SMEs focus on their core strengths while maximising business value.”

SMEs start the process with BHP’s TechOrtunity workshops, which provide a deep dive into aligning technology with business goals.

For more information, visit BHP Information and Technology Consulting.

Dawson Radford advises on acquisition of Iconic ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ property

Dawson Radford Solicitors and Sheffield-based Mason Thomas Law have advised on the purchase of Skeldale House in Askrigg, North Yorkshire, the iconic setting for the BBC series All Creatures Great and Small.

The firms worked with entrepreneur Greg Parkin, with Dawson Radford handling the acquisition of the established luxury holiday business and Mason Thomas Law advising on the property itself. The teams completed a complex, time-sensitive transaction smoothly.

Skeldale House, a Grade II listed Wensleydale property, featured in 90 episodes of the BBC series between 1978 and 1990. Built in the early-to-mid 19th century, it has served as a family home, care facility, and B&B before becoming luxury serviced holiday apartments in 2021.

Greg, who previously built and sold several successful construction businesses, said the opportunity to acquire Skeldale House was “too good to miss.” He added: “It’s a very special place. I grew up watching All Creatures Great and Small and have always loved the Dales. Skeldale House captures authenticity, beauty, and a sense of welcome. I want guests to feel the same when they visit.”

The property now offers six luxury serviced suites, a self-contained holiday apartment, and an event space called ‘The Surgery’, featuring original veterinary paraphernalia, James Herriot memorabilia, and photos from filming. Plans include bespoke rural retreat packages to let visitors explore the landscape that inspired James Herriot’s stories.

Cathy Mason, solicitor and director at Mason Thomas Law, said: “Skeldale House is part of Yorkshire’s cultural heritage. Completing the purchase within a tight timeframe was a real team effort. It’s exciting to see the property continue its legacy as a Dales destination.”

For more information, visit www.skeldalehouse.co.uk.

For more information on Chesterfield Champions please click here: Chesterfield Champions

Posted in Business, Home

Exciting new food vendor coming to The Batch House

21st November 2025

Local food lovers have something new to enjoy: Butcher & Catch, the acclaimed Yorkshire-based Meat House and Seafood Bar, is opening at The Batch House.

Since opening in 2021, The Batch House based on Whittington Moor has quickly become a hub for food and social gatherings in Chesterfield. It is part of The Glass Yard, the wider redevelopment of the historic Chesterfield Glass Works, a landmark of the town’s industrial heritage. The Glass Yard now combines artisan food vendors, bars, and creative spaces, with The Batch House serving as a key part of this lively scene.

Butcher & Catch already delights customers in Sheffield, where its stall at the award-winning Cutlery Works Food Hall in Kelham Island serves an innovative and hearty menu. Now, the team is bringing their signature dishes to Chesterfield, promising a dining experience that is both unique and perfectly suited to the Batch House family of vendors.

Highlights of the menu include the Soft-Shell Crab Roll, celebrated for its playful and fresh flavors. Meat lovers can enjoy the Signature Meat Tray, which features local produce such as Pipers Artisan Sausage and Moss Valley baby back ribs. Traditionalists will appreciate proper Fish & Chips with mushy peas—a perfect choice on home match days.

Moreover, Butcher & Catch will keep things exciting with regular specials and a loyalty rewards scheme, ensuring that customers always have something new to try.

“Our feast-like food has already caught the eye of many Chesterfield customers, and we think that our menu offers something different but fits well within the Batch House family of food vendors.”

The Chesterfield stall is expected to open within the next few weeks, and the team encourages locals to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

With its mix of fresh seafood, hearty meats, and inventive dishes, Butcher & Catch looks set to become a must-visit spot for anyone exploring The Batch House.

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure

Local businesses lighting up the community

17th November 2025

Local Chesterfield businesses are making a real difference, bringing joy, creativity, and support to the community. From festive Christmas tree campaigns to charity balls celebrating women, these businesses are not just thriving, they’re giving back in big ways.

RSPCA Chesterfield’s Pawfect Pines Christmas tree campaign

RSPCA Chesterfield is spreading festive cheer with its ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign, offering real Christmas trees in a range of sizes, including some up to 10 feet tall.

Collection starts at the charity’s Christmas Fayre on Sunday, 30 November. Visitors can browse and choose their ideal tree, enjoy some fun and games, have a mulled wine, and take a tour of the animal centre. All proceeds from the sale go directly to RSPCA Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, helping local animals in need.

Lyndsey Dudley, supporter engagement manager, said:

“Our ‘Pawfect Pines’ campaign is a wonderful way for people to celebrate the festive season while making a real difference for local animals. Every tree purchased helps us provide care and support for vulnerable pets. We’re inviting the community to get involved and make this Christmas extra special.”

To secure your tree, order online by Monday, 24 November at the RSPCA Chesterfield website, or come along and pick one out in person from Sunday 30 November at the centre in Spital.

Chesterfield business owner hosts Charity Ball for Nottingham Women’s Centre

Chesterfield entrepreneur Gemma Feek is bringing a sparkle to Nottingham next March with the Celebrating Her Charity Ball. The event takes place at Colwick Hall on Friday, 6 March 2026 and will support the Nottingham Women’s Centre.

Gemma, Director of Terrena Ltd and Chesterfield Champion Inspire Design and Development Ltd (IPD Ltd), is celebrating five years of Terrena Ltd alongside the rebrand of IPD Ltd.

Scheduled over International Women’s Day weekend, the ball will bring together professionals and community members from across the East Midlands to honour women and their allies creating positive change.

“I have ambitious goals for this event—it’s going to be a huge celebration!” said Gemma. “We’ve lined up a sax player, aerial acrobat, dancers, a DJ, live band and more. Most importantly, it’s about raising awareness and funds for Nottingham Women’s Centre and the incredible work they do.”

Gemma’s dedication to empowering women stems from her own journey. As a mum who returned to education later in life, she’s passionate about helping others pursue their goals. She’s also training for the London Marathon 2026 to raise additional funds for the Centre.

For more information and tickets, visit: https://lnkd.in/ehAah2t3

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane bring festive cheer for Sheffield Children’s Hospital

Chesterfield shoppers will once again have the chance to add a sparkle to the festive season with snowflakes 2025 at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre. The campaign raises money for Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, helping fund vital care for children and families across the region.

For £200, supporters can gift a personalised Snowflake tag to sit proudly on the front of the Chesterfield Vicar Lane display. Each tag carries your name and brings a little festive magic to shoppers, staff and visitors throughout December.

The Vicar Lane location is one of 13 sites across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire taking part this year, including:

Sheffield Children’s Hospital
Becton Centre
Ryegate Children’s Centre
Sheffield City Hall
Crystal Peaks

Snowflakes at Vicar Lane directly support Sheffield Children’s Hospital, making a real difference for the children and families they care for.

For more information, visit the Sheffield Children’s Hospital snowflakes website.

Record number of early-bird entrants to the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

Chesterfield’s popular annual running event, the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K, is off to a flying start for 2026. With a record number of runners signing up during the early-bird period.

Next year’s race, taking place on Sunday 17 May, will mark the fifth edition of the event. It has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated sporting occasions, attracting hundreds of runners each year. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants.

This year, 714 people registered during the early-bird period, a more than 25 per cent increase on last year. In 2025, 1,515 runners took part on the day.

The Chesterfield 10K isn’t just about running. The event also raises thousands of pounds for local charities, including Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice, and Bluebell Wood. Supporting people across Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and South Yorkshire.

John Timms, lead organiser and director at MLS Contracts Ltd, said: “It’s fantastic to see early-bird sign-ups grow by a quarter from last year. It shows how much this event means to the local community and the difference it makes for our charity partners.

“General entries are now open, and there’s still plenty of time for anyone wanting to take on the challenge to sign up and start training for the big day. See you in May!”

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home

New video highlights Supported Internships for young people

13th November 2025

A new video is shining a light on how Supported Internships are helping young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) into work.

The film features eight young people from across the East Midlands sharing what inspired them to join and how the experience is shaping their future.

Research by the Connected Futures programme found that many young people and families are unaware of Supported Internships. It also showed that more information is needed on how to access them.

The video aims to raise awareness and show how Supported Internships can make a real difference. It also encourages more employers to take part by offering placements or shorter externships that match an intern’s skills and interests.

Supported Internships are one-year programmes for 16 to 24 year olds with SEND who have an Education Health and Care Plan. Interns work with local employers, gaining experience in real workplaces and building practical skills for paid employment.

Paula Symonds, Projects Manager for Connected Futures, said:

“The campaign video was commissioned to encourage more young people to consider a Supported Internship as a step towards employment. We also want to encourage more employers to offer internships or shorter externships where the intern moves out of the host business to a local employer that is better matched to their skills and future goals.”

The campaign was created by Connected Futures in the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). It is supported by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), Nottinghamshire County Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and Derby City Council.

To find out more and watch the video, visit: www.youtube.com

DEBP is one of over 200 businesses working with Destination Chesterfield to support the town’s economic growth. Find out more about the town’s Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in Business, Home, Skills

East Midlands Investment Zone celebrates first year of growth

12th November 2025

Thousands of jobs are set to be created across the East Midlands thanks to a “once-in-a-generation” growth and investment initiative.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority is now celebrating a major milestone this month as the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) marks its first year of activity.

The 10-year programme aims to unlock millions of pounds in investment, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities, and laying the foundations for thousands of high-quality jobs in the region.

Launched in October 2024 with £160 million of funding from the Government, EMIZ is designed to supercharge growth across the region by focusing on two key strengths: clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands Investment Zone provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the people in our region – and in just 12 months we are already seeing the results.

“Thanks to £160m of Government funding, we are investing in the skills, innovation, and infrastructure that will create thousands of well-paid jobs and make the East Midlands a magnet for clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.”

The programme aims to attract at least £383m in private sector investment and generate up to 4,300 skilled jobs – driving inclusive economic growth for communities in the region.

Investing in places, people, and potential

The first year of EMIZ has seen progress across its three designated strategic sites – Infinity Park in Derby, Hartington Staveley near Chesterfield, and Explore Park near Worksop – as well as a number of supporting projects across the wider region.

Key achievements include:

Hartington Commerce Park in Chesterfield: outline planning permission has been granted and initial work has started on industrial and warehouse developments on the 20-hectare site.
Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield: enabling works to support the region’s growing rail cluster.
Research & Innovation Sprint: the University of Nottingham has created innovation roadmaps and supported 15 cutting-edge projects testing innovative products and processes for the green economy and advanced manufacturing.
Skills Sprint: the University of Derby has shaped a skills pipeline to connect local people to high-value careers.
Nuclear Skills Academy: feasibility work on a second academy at Infinity Park Derby.

Together, these projects are helping to unlock brownfield land, boost local supply chains, and strengthen the region’s position as a leader in green growth and advanced manufacturing.

Mayor Claire continued: “This first year has built strong foundations for the future, and we are determined to go further – attracting more private investment, supporting local businesses to grow, and ensuring every community can share in the benefits of this new era for our region. This is inclusive growth in action.”

Next steps

As the East Midlands Investment Zone moves into its second year, the focus will be on:

Building the pipeline of new projects to keep up momentum.
Bringing forward investments identified in the EMIZ Strategy and Investment Plan for funding approval.
Working with local partners to deliver infrastructure, training programmes, and innovations which unlock further opportunities for residents and employers.

With its ambitious vision, strong local partnerships, and long-term commitment from Government, the East Midlands Investment Zone is set to keep powering growth in the region for the next decade and beyond.

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

Community garden project to transform Chesterfield Station

10th November 2025

A group of volunteers working with East Midlands Railway (EMR) are creating a bee-friendly garden at Chesterfield Railway Station to celebrate the town’s heritage and its links to the Peak District.

The Chesterfield Station Garden Renovation will feature storytelling elements, woven into the landscape, including sculptures and artwork created by local schools, colleges, and apprentices. These community contributions will reflect Chesterfield’s rich history – such as George Stephenson, the Crooked Spire, Chesterfield’s coat of arms, and even Lord Stanhope’s Chesterfield Sofa.

East Midlands Railway, which manages Chesterfield Station and runs the Station Adopter Scheme, has welcomed the initiative as a model of community collaboration.

Sam Smith, Community Ambassador, at East Midlands Railway said:

“Our Station Adopter Scheme is all about empowering local communities to shape their stations. The Chesterfield Garden project is a brilliant example of how creativity and collaboration can transform public spaces and enhance the passenger experience.”

Rekha Mistry, Head Gardener at Haddon Hall and Presenter on BBC Gardeners’ World recently joined the Chesterfield Station Adopter team and has been instrumental in shaping the vision. She said:

“A garden is much more than an outdoor space. It should tell a story, and Chesterfield has so many to share – from its industrial heritage to its natural beauty. This project is about creating a space that welcomes visitors, supports biodiversity, and connects the community through creativity and history.”

The garden will be located between platforms 2 and 3 and will include:

New landscaping with weed control sheeting, wood chippings, and planters
Bee-friendly planting to support biodiversity
Sculptural and artistic features designed by young people in the community

Work on the garden is expected to begin in November 2025, and completion of the basic landscaping and planting is scheduled for completion by March 2026.

Some initial work has already taken place, including the temporary relocation of plants and some clearing of weeds, giving a glimpse of what’s to come. The project element of the garden will be an ongoing programme with input from as many groups of young people as possible and could extend for two years.

The Chesterfield Station Adopter team run by EMR consists of 18 volunteers, supported by an additional team of around six volunteers from local charity Phoenix Futures. The project has already received pledges of support from Chesterfield Champions NT Killingley and Chesterfield College, Chesterfield Rotary and Network Rail.

The project has already secured funding from EMR’s Performance Improvement Fund, and an application has been made to Community Rail Network for a further grant with a total outstanding budget of approximately £5,000. Additional support is being sought to help expand the scope of the garden and involve more young people in its creation.

Gareth Dillon, Managing Director of NT Killingley said:

“We’re proud to support such a well-conceived local project that brings together horticulture, heritage, biodiversity, and community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to help young people contribute to something lasting and meaningful at the heart of Chesterfield.”

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Living in Chesterfield means being part of a community that values its heritage and invests in its future. This garden project is a perfect example of that spirit – transforming a key gateway into the town with creativity, pride, and collaboration. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase what makes Chesterfield special and to inspire further investment in our public spaces.”

Organisers are now inviting further support from local businesses, organisations, and individuals. Contributions of time, materials, funding, or mentorship for young participants are warmly welcomed.

Those interested in getting involved should contact Lead Station Adopter, Dominic Wish by email: dominic.wish@wishdesigns.co.uk.

Alternatively, follow the progress of the project on the Chesterfield Station Adopters Facebook page. and the Chesterfield Station Adopters LinkedIn page.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development

£25 million investment fund launched to power growth across the East Midlands

10th November 2025

The East Midlands Combined County Authority EMCCA has announced the opening of its Autumn 2025 Investment Fund, making up to £25 million available to support projects that will drive growth, create jobs, and improve lives across the region.

The announcement was made at EMCCA’s October Investment Committee meeting. The fund will back strategic, deliverable projects that align with the region’s ambition to build a fairer, greener, and more prosperous East Midlands.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This is a major milestone for the East Midlands. By launching this £25m fund, we are backing the brilliant ideas that deliver real results for local people.”

Supporting inclusive growth across the region

This funding round follows the EMCCA Board’s approval in September of a new “twin-tracked” investment approach – supporting both short-term deliverable projects and longer-term strategic programmes that can make a lasting difference.

About 75 project proposals were received though the expression of interest call, representing about £160m of investment opportunities – demonstrating strong demand and ambition across the East Midlands.

A shortlist of projects will now be invited to bring forward full businesses to secure investment.

Mayor Claire said: “We want to see bold, practical projects that will shape the future of our places and our people. This is about supporting businesses to grow, improving skills, and investing in the places we’re proud to call home.”

Looking ahead to a new way of investing

Alongside this funding round, EMCCA is evolving its investment approach. Future funding rounds will move towards a thematic, place-based approach. EMCCA will work closely with public and private partners to develop project portfolios that focus on shared priorities rather than traditional open competitions.

Potential focus areas include:

Town-centre and place renewal.
Strategic employment and innovation sites.
Skills and training infrastructure.
Culture, heritage, sport, and rural development.

Accelerating progress

This new funding announcement builds on the progress EMCCA is already making in the region. EMCCA is delivering significant capital investment projects to support the East Midlands Growth Plan.

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

Chesterfield’s collaborative spirit drives economic growth and skills development in manufacturing

6th November 2025

Chesterfield has a well-established manufacturing heritage and a proven track record of cross-sector collaboration. Across education, business, local government, and strategic partnerships, the town demonstrates how joined-up thinking can boost economic growth, skills development, and place transformation.

At a recent roundtable hosted by Destination Chesterfield, held at the Casa Hotel, participants highlighted Chesterfield’s ability to bring people together and how this continues to support the growth of the local manufacturing sector.

“We’ve got a very cooperative business community in Chesterfield,” said Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller. “We get used to it and forget how good it is. When I talk about it in other places, they wish they had it.”

This collaboration is the result of years of relationship-building, shared initiatives, and a commitment to cross-sector working. The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Manufacturing Forum, Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield play vital roles in connecting people and aligning efforts.

Lynda Sharp, Economic Development Manager at Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“We’ve got 335 manufacturing businesses, which is 9% of our total, compared to a national average of 4.5%. There’s strength in numbers, and opportunity.”

Through collaboration, major projects are being completed, driving the sector’s long-term growth and attracting investor interest. These include the new Investment Zone, the DRiiVE rail innovation centre, and the Engineering, Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre at Chesterfield College.

These developments also extend into education and workforce engagement, ensuring long-term sector resilience.

Rhys Robinson, Director of Employer Partnerships at Chesterfield College, shared how the college is embedding employer engagement into its curriculum. He said:

“We’ve developed a partnership framework that allows us to understand what our employers need, recognise collaboration, and measure the output. It’s about making the college a community space where employers come and go, shaping the curriculum and supporting students.”

The University of Derby is taking a similar approach. Rob Ricketts, Industry Engagement Lead, said:

“We’re aiming to be the most industry-engaged university in the UK. That means every academic must bring industry into their teaching. We’re flipping the model, students will leave with real experience, not just theory.”

This joined-up approach is helping Chesterfield respond to national challenges such as skills shortages, funding uncertainty, and shifting policy landscapes.

Ian Bates, Director of Policy at East Midlands Chamber, said:

“We’ve had a lot of changes in funding. But if you’ve got a framework to deliver support and the funding feeds into that, it makes things simpler. Businesses don’t always need help when you knock on the door; they need it when they need it.”

Destination Chesterfield plays a key role in highlighting the support on offer and opportunities to collaborate.

Dom Stevens, Head of Destination Chesterfield, said:

“We’re a marketing organisation, but we’re also a collaboration organisation. We bring people together to support the economy and the people of Chesterfield.”

As the East Midlands Combined County Authority launches its inclusive growth strategy, Chesterfield is well-positioned to support delivery through its coordinated, cross-sector approach. Strategic investment, strong partnerships, and collaborative initiatives underpin the town’s ability to turn ambition into action.

Initiatives such as the Made in Chesterfield Festival have evolved into region-wide programmes that connect businesses and students with real opportunities. Meanwhile, coordinated investment in place marketing has helped to raise the borough’s profile and attract growth.

Get Involved
If you are a business based in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire and would like to support a collaborative approach to inclusive growth, discover more about Destination Chesterfield and the Chesterfield Champions at www.chesterfield.co.uk/champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing

Chesterfield Investment Summit showcases £2bn pipeline and 7,800 job opportunities

5th November 2025

The Chesterfield Investment Summit has spotlighted a bold vision for the borough’s future, unveiling a £2 billion regeneration pipeline poised to deliver over 7,800 new jobs, 3,900 homes, and £473 million in annual GVA to the local economy.

Held on 5 November 2025, the Summit brought together investors, developers, and civic leaders to explore the transformative opportunities across Chesterfield and Staveley. Central to the discussions was the East Midlands Growth Plan, presented by East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward, which aims to create 100,000 jobs, deliver 52,000 homes, and boost the regional economy by £4 billion over the next decade.

The Mayor emphasised Chesterfield and Staveley’s strategic role in the plan, through the Canal Corridor, which has been identified as a priority area for regeneration and investment.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands is open for business. Our Inclusive Growth Strategy is about unlocking opportunity across every part of the region, and Chesterfield and Staveley are central to that ambition. The Canal Corridor is a priority area for regeneration, and we’re committed to supporting investment that delivers real benefits for communities.”

The Summit emphasised inclusive growth, with speakers and delegates reinforcing the need for economic development to benefit local people and communities. Chesterfield Borough Council Leader Councillor Tricia Gilby reinforced this message: “We’re not pursuing growth for growth’s sake. Our focus is on inclusive growth, ensuring that investment in Chesterfield translates into better jobs, stronger communities, and opportunities for everyone. The Investment Summit is a powerful platform to show how our plans are rooted in local need and ambition.”

Delegates learned more about the East Midlands Investment Zone, including incentives available for investors and details of the Staveley Hartington site. The Summit also spotlighted major developments such as Peak Resort and town centre regeneration in both Chesterfield and Staveley. Investors shared insights into why they are choosing to invest in retail, leisure, community, residential and office opportunities across the borough.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Chesterfield is open for business. We have the sites, the partnerships, and the ambition to deliver transformational change. The Investment Summit is about connecting opportunity with action, and we’re ready to welcome investors who share our vision.”

The Chesterfield Investment Summit was organised by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with the Devonshire Group and Tawnywood, and supported by East Midlands Chamber and We Are Spaces.

Discover more about investment opportunities in Chesterfield at www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments.

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