Business

DRIIVe opens to strengthen Chesterfield’s rail sector

24th July 2026

A £6 million investment has transformed Barrow Hill into a hub for rail innovation, with the opening of the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe).

The state-of-the-art centre offers modern classrooms and training areas, specialist research and development facilities, including a digital laboratory, alongside high-quality commercial workshop space for rail businesses, researchers and learners.

Developed by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, DRIIVe was officially opened by Ivan Fomin, Independent Business Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board. The majority of the project has been funded through the Government-backed Staveley Town Deal, with additional funding provided by the East Midlands Combined County Authority and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Ivan Fomin said:

“It is fantastic to be able to open this new innovation centre – it represents everything we are trying to achieve through the Town Deal. We want Staveley to be a town where people can start, stay and grow. Providing training facilities but also space for business will help ensure that local people can develop the skills they need to build fantastic careers in the rail sector.”

Managed by Barrow Hill Ltd, DRIIVe will provide education and training from Level Two through to postgraduate research while offering specialist facilities for rail businesses to develop new technologies and grow within the sector.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“DRIIVe represents our ambition to be a leading destination for the rail industry – it will not only provide training and a base for businesses but also has the facilities needed to carry out cutting-edge research and development. We expect that having a facility like this will help attract businesses to the nearby East Midlands Industrial Zone site.

“DRIIVe will ensure that local people have access to training which will enable them to gain the right skills to access good quality jobs created by new businesses being attracted to the area.

“Partnership sits at the heart of DRIIVe, and we want to continue working with businesses to ensure DRIIVe supports the sector, but we also want to use this facility to inspire the next generation of rail engineers. We are already developing a detailed outreach programme for local schools to achieve this. DRIIVe is an ambitious project, and I am confident it will be truly transformational for our borough.”

The centre is expected to support businesses across the rail supply chain while helping develop the skilled workforce needed for future industry growth.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle is a fantastic example of how targeted investment into our region’s strengths can create lasting benefits. By putting funding into this project, we’ve helped bring this important project to life, accelerating the delivery of specialist skills and supporting the future of the rail industry.

“The opening of DRIIVe is a significant milestone in the wider regeneration of the area, which will also unlock future opportunities at nearby sites such as Hartington Staveley as part of our East Midlands Investment Zone ambitions. As we work to attract investment from clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing, facilities like this give us a strong platform to grow our high-value sectors, including rail, where the East Midlands has heritage, a strong track record, and a real competitive advantage.”

Discover more about the Staveley Town Deal projects transforming the area by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/

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

Awards recognise Chesterfield’s creative, community and education leaders

22nd July 2026

From educational achievement and award-winning green spaces to creative excellence, Chesterfield Champions are continuing to earn recognition for the positive impact they make locally and beyond.

Chesterfield tuition centre named Derbyshire’s Independent Educator of the Year

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West & Matlock has been named Derbyshire’s Independent Educator of the Year for the second consecutive year at the Business Awards UK, recognising its commitment to supporting young people across the region.

Based in Chesterfield, the centre delivers tailored learning programmes designed to meet individual needs, supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. Alongside improving academic performance, the team places a strong emphasis on developing confidence and creating a positive learning environment.

The latest accolade recognises the dedication of the centre’s team and the impact it continues to make for local families.

Lorna Bell, Centre Owner at Kip McGrath Chesterfield West & Matlock, says:

“Winning Derbyshire Independent Educator of the Year 2026 is an incredible honour.

It recognises not only the academic success of our students but also the caring, supportive environment we’ve worked so hard to create. Every child deserves the opportunity to believe in themselves, and we’re proud to play a small part in helping young people across Chesterfield and Matlock achieve their full potential.

This award belongs to our wonderful team, our amazing students and the families who trust us with their children’s education.”

Beyond the classroom, the centre continues to support community initiatives across Chesterfield.

This year, Kip McGrath Chesterfield West & Matlock sponsored the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, helping create opportunities for families to enjoy creative activities and celebrate learning together.

Receiving the award for a second year highlights the centre’s continued investment in helping young people develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed, while reinforcing Chesterfield’s reputation as a place that values education, opportunity and community.

Hollingwood Hub celebrates tenth consecutive Green Flag Award

Hollingwood Hub, located on the Chesterfield Canal in Staveley, has once again been recognised as one of the UK’s best green spaces after receiving a Green Flag Award for the tenth consecutive year.

Managed by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, the award recognises the volunteers and staff who maintain the popular visitor destination to a nationally recognised standard.

The Green Flag Award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces. This year, a record 2,391 sites across the UK achieved the accolade, recognising spaces that are welcoming, well managed and accessible to visitors.

Hollingwood Hub has become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Alongside its award-winning gardens, the site is home to the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s Information Centre and Shop, Katey’s Coffee Shop, regular boat trips aboard Madeline and paddlesports activities delivered by CJB Training & Adventure with support from Trust volunteers.

Jim Bower, who leads the Trust’s Gardening Team at Hollingwood Hub, said:

“It is brilliant to get this official recognition for the hard work of our volunteers. The public tell us they love it and we take great pride in creating such a welcoming space.”

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said:

“The Canal Trust volunteers at Hollingwood Hub have shown what can be achieved when green spaces are properly supported and managed.

“Congratulations to everyone involved.”

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, celebrates parks and green spaces that provide safe, welcoming places for communities and visitors while meeting the highest standards of management and maintenance.

Chesterfield creative agency celebrates double award recognition

Chesterfield creative agency CRUSH is celebrating national and regional recognition after being shortlisted in two prestigious industry awards, highlighting the strength of the town’s creative sector.

The agency has been shortlisted for Best B2B Creativity at the 2026 Midlands Marketing Awards for its work with global technology distributor Arrow ECS. Meanwhile, Founder and Creative Director Natalie Burkinshaw has been named a finalist for Creative & Media Entrepreneur of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Founded in Chesterfield in 2003, CRUSH has built an international reputation for delivering branding and creative campaigns for engineering, manufacturing and technology businesses. Its client portfolio includes Arrow ECS, Fugro, Ordnance Survey, Ziemann Holvrieka and Briggs of Burton.

Natalie’s nomination recognises her leadership in growing the agency over more than two decades. The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, often described as the “Grammys of entrepreneurship”, celebrate entrepreneurs building successful businesses across the UK. This year’s awards attracted more than 5,000 applications, with 740 businesses shortlisted.

Natalie said:

“I am thrilled to be a finalist for the Creative & Media Entrepreneur of the Year for the Midlands. These awards showcase entrepreneurs from across the country, in all sorts of categories, and each year they receive thousands of entries. A huge thank you to the judges for selecting me!”

The Midlands Marketing Awards nomination recognises CRUSH’s creative approach to helping business-to-business brands communicate complex products in engaging and memorable ways.

Natalie added:

“Great B2B creativity earns trust and turns heads. It builds brands that people remember in a crowded market, and that sales teams are genuinely proud to put in front of prospects.

“At the end of the day, it’s not Business to Business, it’s Person to Person.”

CRUSH, Chesterfield Canal Trust and Kip McGrath Chesterfield West & Matlock are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

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

New growth strategy to drive investment, skills and growth in Chesterfield

21st July 2026

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved a new four-year growth strategy that will help attract investment, strengthen skills, enhance our town centre and create new opportunities for businesses and residents.

The Growth Strategy 2026-2030 sets out a long-term vision to ensure Chesterfield remains a thriving, resilient and forward-looking borough, building on the success of previous economic growth programmes.

Approved at a meeting of full council on Wednesday, 15th July, 2026 the strategy outlines how the council will work alongside businesses, education providers and regional partners to support economic growth while ensuring local people benefit from new opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“This strategy will help ensure that our borough remains a thriving place to live and work but it also sets out our commitment to delivering inclusive growth so that everyone in our community can share in the benefits of a growing economy. Whether it is working with our partners to enhance skills provision for local people or attracting new businesses and investment to our borough, we want our economy to provide everyone with the chance to build a fantastic life in Chesterfield.

“Through this strategy we are building on our success – we have seen thousands of jobs created, new businesses move into the borough and record levels of investment by both the private and public sector. We want this trend to continue, and we will work with our partners to ensure we can achieve even more for our communities.

“We are an ambitious borough and that is reflected throughout this strategy, but our key aim is to unlock our potential to assert Chesterfield’s role as a regional driver of economic growth.”

Five priorities for future growth

The strategy identifies five priorities that will guide economic growth over the next four years:

Help businesses grow and attract new investment.
Build infrastructure that supports employment and housing growth.
Strengthen the character and vibrancy of Chesterfield’s town centres.
Develop Chesterfield’s role as a visitor destination and gateway to the surrounding area.
Ensure local people have the skills needed to progress in the labour market and benefit from future employment opportunities.

To deliver these ambitions, the council will continue working with businesses and skills providers to improve access to training and employment support. It also commits to initiatives such as local labour clauses on major planning applications, helping local communities benefit directly from new developments.

The strategy also builds on major regeneration projects, including Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield, by supporting more events in the town centre, continuing investment in public spaces and working with Chesterfield Town Board, part of the Government’s Pride in Place programme, and the East Midlands Combined County Authority to unlock new opportunities such as the East Midlands Investment Zone.

Other major projects highlighted within the strategy include the Staveley Growth Corridor, the reopening of the Barrow Hill Line, the Staveley Vision Masterplan and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan.

To discover more on what makes Chesterfield a great place to live, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living

For more information and to read the full Growth Strategy 2026–2030, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/chesterfields-growth-strategy

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

Government confirms plans for two new councils in Derbyshire

17th July 2026

Chesterfield Borough Council has welcomed the Government’s decision to create two new unitary councils in Derbyshire, marking the next step in reshaping local government across the county.

Subject to Parliamentary approval, Derbyshire will be served by two new unitary councils from Wednesday, 1st April 2028. One council will cover the north of the county and the other the south, with the boundary following the proposal known as Option B1 in the One Derbyshire, Two Councils case for change submitted to Government in November last year.

The announcement provides greater certainty about the future structure of local government in Derbyshire, helping businesses, investors and partners plan for the future with confidence. Chesterfield will continue to play a key role in driving economic growth across the county through major regeneration projects, investment opportunities and skills initiatives.

Councillor Tricia Gilby said:

“The specific proposal which has been supported by Government, Option B1, was the option formally endorsed by Chesterfield Borough Council. Based on a strong and robust evidence base, we are confident it provides the best foundation to plan for the future needs of our communities, ensuring local government has the capacity, resources and resilience to support growth, deliver vital services and respond to changing demands in the years ahead.

“Chesterfield is a place with a long-standing commitment to growth, jobs and prosperity for residents and businesses. Chesterfield’s ambition and potential will continue to be a powerful driving force for our county and our region. We will carry that commitment and momentum into this next chapter for local government.”

Under the Government’s current timetable, the new unitary councils will become operational from Wednesday, 1st April 2028.

Chesterfield Borough Council will continue working with partners across Derbyshire to ensure the new arrangements support investment, growth and opportunities for local communities and businesses.

To discover more about what makes Chesterfield a great place to do business, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/

Learn more about the local government reorganisation by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/your-council/the-future-of-councils-in-derbyshire-local-government-reorganisation/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield apprenticeships help businesses build their future workforce

13th July 2026

Whether you’re looking to tackle skills shortages, plan for future growth or bring fresh ideas into your business, apprenticeships can help. Across Chesterfield, employers of all sizes are using apprenticeships to develop talent, build specialist skills and create a workforce that’s ready for the future.

With Government funding and employer incentives available, apprenticeships provide an accessible and cost-effective way for businesses to invest in future talent. Chesterfield’s Skills Brokerage Service can help you understand the support available and guide you through the process.

The benefits are being shown by businesses nationwide. Research shows that 92% of employers who have taken on apprentices believe it has led to a more motivated and satisfied workforce, while 86% say apprenticeships have helped them develop the skills their organisation needs. What’s more, 80% of employers have seen improved staff retention, demonstrating the long-term value apprentices can bring to a business.

From professional services and financial advice to animal care, local businesses are seeing apprentices make a real impact from day one while gaining nationally recognised qualifications alongside practical workplace experience

Developing future professionals through apprenticeships

SMH Mitchells, part of the wider SMH Group, has used apprenticeships for many years to build a reliable pipeline of skilled accountants and advisers.

The Chesterfield-based firm, which has supported businesses across the region for more than 150 years, offers structured routes into accountancy, enabling apprentices to progress through AAT qualifications before moving on to professional accreditations including ACCA and ICAEW.

Many employees have started their careers with the business as apprentices before progressing into senior positions.

Among the latest success stories are Jordon Langley and Aiden Siddall, who were recognised at Chesterfield College’s AAT Awards in recognition of their commitment and achievements during their studies.

The business believes apprenticeships help bridge the gap between education and employment, allowing individuals to apply their learning in a professional environment while building confidence and experience. Apprentices also bring new perspectives and digital skills that support innovation and continuous improvement across the business.

Andrew McDaid at SMH Mitchells says:

“By welcoming apprentices into our teams, we continue to build a workforce that is adaptable, forward-thinking and ready for the future of accountancy.

Apprentices often bring a strong awareness of new digital accounting technologies and cloud-based platforms, supported by the modern methods and approaches they are learning through their studies. This helps them apply fresh thinking to real client work while developing their technical skills in a practical environment.”

Growing talent from within your business

Mortgage 1st has used apprenticeships to grow talent from within, reducing recruitment pressures while creating clear career pathways.

Lewis Atkins joined the company in 2021 as a Level 3 Business Administration apprentice. After successfully completing his apprenticeship, he progressed into the role of Protection Consultant, supporting clients with insurance arrangements and helping advisers manage customer policies.

Since moving into his new role, Lewis has become a valued member of the team and has received the company’s Admin of the Year award for two consecutive years.

Mortgage 1st says apprentices have brought enthusiasm, adaptability and fresh thinking to the organisation, helping strengthen services while supporting business growth.

The company believes investing in young people delivers long-term benefits, creating a workforce that combines practical experience with recognised qualifications and industry knowledge.

Lisa Stones, Operations Director at Mortgage 1st, highlighted:

“We’ve learned that investing in young talent delivers long-term benefits for both the individual and the business. Apprentices bring energy, adaptability and a fresh outlook, and with the right support and training they can grow into highly skilled and trusted members of the team.

Their development has reinforced the importance of creating clear career pathways and fostering a culture of learning.”

Fresh ideas that help businesses evolve

DogLand has found apprenticeships bring both practical support and fresh ideas into the business.

Lilly joined the business through the Juniper Training apprenticeship programme and has quickly established herself as a valued member of the team.

Working within DogLand’s busy daycare environment, she has developed her understanding of animal welfare and behaviour while gaining hands-on experience in the day-to-day operation of the business.

Alongside developing technical skills, Lilly has also introduced new ideas that have benefited the company. Her interest in social media and digital marketing has helped enhance DogLand’s online presence and customer engagement, demonstrating how apprentices can contribute fresh perspectives while continuing to learn and develop.

The team has praised Lilly’s growing confidence, willingness to learn and ability to take on increasing responsibility, viewing her journey as a strong example of how apprenticeships can support both personal development and business success.

Dawn Brown, Owner of DogLand, explained:

“Her positive attitude, commitment to learning, and ability to both absorb and share knowledge make her an excellent example of how apprenticeships can benefit both the individual and the employer.

We are incredibly proud of Lilly’s progress so far and look forward to supporting her continued development and career journey within the pet care industry.”

Building Chesterfield’s workforce of the future

While operating in very different sectors, SMH Mitchells, Mortgage 1st and DogLand share a common experience: apprenticeships help create skilled, confident employees who contribute from an early stage in their careers while supporting long-term business growth.

Whether you’re recruiting your first apprentice or looking to grow your existing team, support is available every step of the way. Chesterfield’s Skills Brokerage Service can help you understand funding, identify the right apprenticeship programme and connect with local training providers.

Find out how apprenticeships can help your business grow by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/hiring-an-apprentice/

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

Chesterfield business owner named finalist at UK Small Business Awards 2026

9th July 2026

Chesterfield entrepreneur who has helped more than 35 businesses, charities and community organisations strengthen their digital presence has been named a finalist at the UK Small Business Awards 2026.

Jessica Smith, founder of Justjessvirtual, has been shortlisted in the Female Entrepreneur of the Year category, recognising the growth of her business and its impact in supporting organisations to increase their online visibility.

Founded during the Covid-19 pandemic, Justjessvirtual provides social media management, digital marketing, content creation and communications support to businesses and organisations across Chesterfield and beyond. Since launching, the business has worked with clients across sectors including health and wellbeing, retail, professional services, charities, community organisations, trades and events.

Jessica established the business after relocating to Chesterfield, where she built a new life and career before deciding to launch her own business. Today, much of her work comes through relationships built within the town’s business community.

Jessica said:

“Chesterfield gave me a fresh start and has become the place where I’ve been able to build both my business and my family life. The local business community has been incredibly supportive, and so much of my work has come through local relationships and referrals.

“When I started Justjessvirtual, I wanted to help businesses and organisations tell their stories more effectively online. Seeing the difference that digital visibility can make for small businesses, charities and community groups has been incredibly rewarding.”

One of Jessica’s proudest achievements has been supporting the African Caribbean Community Association in Chesterfield with its digital communications, website and funding communications. The work helped strengthen the charity’s online presence and supported successful funding bids, enabling the organisation to continue delivering services for the local community.

Jessica has also supported major community events, helped businesses improve their digital marketing strategies and created content that has reached audiences of more than one million people online.

Looking ahead, Jessica hopes to continue growing the business while supporting even more organisations across Chesterfield to build confidence in digital marketing and social media.

Jessica added:

“My ambition is to continue helping businesses, charities and community organisations feel more confident online. Growth isn’t just about taking on more clients; it’s about creating more impact, supporting more local stories and helping organisations understand the value of being visible.

“Being recognised as a finalist at the UK Small Business Awards is a huge honour. I’m proud to be representing Chesterfield on a national stage and hope it highlights the fantastic businesses and entrepreneurs we have here.”

The UK Small Business Awards celebrate entrepreneurs and organisations making a significant contribution to their industries and communities across the UK, recognising innovation, resilience and business excellence.

To discover support available to start, grow and promote a business in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home

Chesterfield Champions among winners at Chesterfield Business Awards

8th July 2026

More than 150 business leaders, including Chesterfield Champions, gathered at Casa Hotel on Wednesday, 1st July 2026 to celebrate the first Chesterfield Business Awards, recognising the organisations driving innovation, investment and economic growth across our borough.

Supported by headline sponsor SMH Mitchells, part of the SMH Group, alongside a range of category sponsors and partners including the University of Derby, the awards celebrated businesses that are creating jobs, investing in people, delivering outstanding customer service and making a positive contribution to our communities.

The evening showcased the breadth and strength of Chesterfield’s business community, with organisations of all sizes recognised for their achievements across ten award categories.

Among the evening’s biggest winners was Ellenvale Interiors, which secured both Business of the Year and Best Business Growth. Chesterfield Champion Banner Jones Solicitors also enjoyed success, winning Best Enterprising Business (11+ employees) and Excellence in Customer Service.

Other winners reflected the diversity of businesses helping Chesterfield thrive, from established family firm and Chesterfield Champion Dalton Roofing to pop culture retailer CRIT, which was recognised as Best New Business. Together, the winners highlighted the talent, innovation and entrepreneurial ambition that continues to strengthen the local economy.

Founded by Pure Awards’ Lucinda White and delivered in partnership with Chrissie Rowell of Black Hare Marketing and Events, the awards were created to celebrate the businesses, entrepreneurs and organisations contributing to Chesterfield’s continued success.

Chrissie Rowell said:

“To see our vision come to life has been incredibly rewarding. The standard of entries was outstanding, and the support from sponsors, judges, finalists and guests has been phenomenal. These awards were created to champion the businesses that make Chesterfield such a fantastic place to work and do business, and the atmosphere on the night proved just how much our business community deserves to be celebrated. We’re already excited about making next year’s awards even bigger.”

Lucinda White added:

“Every single entry told a story of ambition, resilience and achievement. It has been a privilege to help create an awards programme that genuinely recognises excellence while giving businesses the opportunity to celebrate everything they have accomplished.”

The awards also highlighted the generosity of Chesterfield’s business community, raising £1,322 for Chesterfield Animal Rescue. The funding will support the charity’s work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome vulnerable animals across the region.

Following a successful inaugural event, planning is already underway for the 2027 Chesterfield Business Awards, building on a celebration that showcased the ambition, innovation and resilience of businesses across Chesterfield.

Full list of winners and runners-up:

Best Enterprising Business (up to 10 employees)

Winner: Edwards Employment Solutions Ltd
Runner-up: EyeSiteView

Best Enterprising Business (11+ employees)

Winner: Banner Jones Solicitors
Runner-up: Less Than Zero Barbers

Excellence in Customer Service

Winner: Banner Jones Solicitors
Runner-up: Dalton Roofing

Employer of the Year

Winner: Dalton Roofing
Runner-up: Less Than Zero Barbers

Best Community Impact

Winner: Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust
Runner-up: Pathways of Chesterfield

Best Business Growth

Winner: Ellenvale Interiors
Runner-up: Derbyshire Pie & Co LLP

Best New Business

Winner: CRIT
Runner-up: Peak and Stone Bakery

Sole Trader of the Year

Winner: Helen Rowan Photography
Runner-up: Andrew Haslam Media

Inspiring Business Person of the Year

Winner: Martin Wallis-Keyworth
Runner-up: Annie Johnson
Highly Commended: Izabella Edwards

Business of the Year

Winner: Ellenvale Interiors

Explore award opportunities and discover more ways to promote your business by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/promote-your-business/

Casa Hotel, Chesterfield Business Awards, SMH Mitchells, the University of Derby, Banner Jones Solicitors, Dalton Roofing, Pure Awards, Edwards Employment Solutions Ltd, EyeSiteView, and Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

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

Chesterfield Champions gain national recognition across creative, finance and hospitality sectors

7th July 2026

National recognition is growing for Chesterfield Champions across the creative, financial and hospitality sectors, with recent awards highlighting the strength of businesses based in our town.

Creative leader recognised in Campaign UK’s 40 Over 40 list

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder and Creative Director of brand and design agency CRUSH, has been recognised for her impact across the advertising, creative and media industries.

Founded in 2003, CRUSH has grown into a specialist agency working with engineering, manufacturing and technology brands building a strong reputation for delivering strategic, brand-led work beyond traditional industry hubs.

Campaign UK’s 40 Over 40 Awards celebrate stand-out individuals aged 40 and above from across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Winners are selected by a panel of senior industry leaders, recognising those making a significant contribution to the sector.

Judges highlighted Natalie’s role in challenging perceptions of where high-quality brand work can be delivered, noting her success in building a female-founded agency operating outside London. They also recognised her work in repositioning CRUSH as a strategic partner to clients, particularly in complex business-to-business sectors.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, Natalie led a transformation of the business, investing in talent, systems and a purpose-built studio, while strengthening the agency’s focus on strategy-led design.

Natalie Burkinshaw said:

“I’m genuinely honoured to be included alongside so many inspiring people.

“When I started CRUSH, I simply wanted to do good work and build something I could be proud of. That ambition remains the same today, and this recognition encourages us to keep pushing forward for our clients and our team.”

Mortgage firm celebrates fourth consecutive national award win

Mortgage 1st has been named Best Mortgage Broker (11–50 Employees) at the Financial Reporter Awards 2026, marking its fourth successive win and highlighting its continued commitment to delivering high-quality mortgage and protection advice.

The Financial Reporter Awards are among the most respected in the sector, with winners voted for by industry professionals. The recognition reflects the strong reputation Mortgage 1st has built with lenders, providers and peers across the UK.

The firm has grown steadily in recent years while maintaining a clear focus on customer service and positive client outcomes. Its team supports a wide range of clients, including first-time buyers, home movers, those looking to remortgage, and property investors, helping them navigate an increasingly complex market.

Lisa Stones, Owner and Operations Director at Mortgage 1st, said:

“Winning this award for the fourth year in a row is something we’re incredibly proud of.

“What makes it even more meaningful is that it is voted for by people across the mortgage industry, reflecting the reputation we’ve built and the service our team delivers every day. We’ve always focused on putting our customers first, and this recognition highlights the hard work, knowledge and commitment of our entire team.”

Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel celebrate top Midlands hospitality awards

Two leading Derbyshire hospitality businesses have been recognised among the best in the region after winning top titles at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards 2026.

Peak Edge Hotel was named Boutique Hotel of the Year, while Cocina Restaurant at Casa Hotel secured Steakhouse of the Year, highlighting a standout year for both venues.

The latest accolade adds to a successful year for Peak Edge Hotel, the four-star luxury venue located on the edge of the Peak District.

At Casa Hotel, the Steakhouse of the Year award reflects a long-term commitment to quality ingredients and a strong farm-to-fork philosophy at Cocina Restaurant.

The venue is the only restaurant in Derbyshire to feature both a specialist DRY AGER® cabinet and a charcoal-fired Josper Grill. This allows premium cuts of beef to be dry aged on site before being cooked over charcoal to enhance flavour.

Much of the produce served at Cocina comes directly from Walton Lodge Farm Estate, home to a range of livestock including cattle, sheep and pigs, alongside free-range chickens and beehives supplying honey to the kitchens.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel, said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for both teams and recognition of the hard work, care and attention that goes into every aspect of the guest experience.

“Whether someone is staying at Peak Edge or Casa, enjoying dinner at Cocina or The Red Lion at Peak Edge, or simply visiting for a drink, our aim has always been to provide the highest standards of hospitality, food and service.

“To be recognised with Boutique Hotel of the Year and Steakhouse of the Year awards against competition from across the Midlands is something we are incredibly proud of.”

Raise the profile of your business by applying for a local, regional or national award, visit: Promote your business Destination Chesterfield

CRUSH, Mortgage 1st, Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel are a few of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Made in Chesterfield returns to champion future talent and local industry

6th July 2026

Made in Chesterfield returns from Thursday, 24th September 2026, showcasing local manufacturing and connecting employers with young people through a month-long programme of activity across Chesterfield.

A flagship initiative for the borough, Made in Chesterfield brings together manufacturers, education providers and partners to celebrate the strength, innovation and growth of the local manufacturing sector while inspiring the next generation of talent.

Coordinated by Destination Chesterfield and delivered in partnership with headline partner Chesterfield College, the campaign highlights the borough as a leading location for manufacturing, while creating meaningful links between businesses and future employees.

Developing future skills through industry engagement

The programme launches on National Manufacturing Day with an employer-led Innovation Challenge, allowing students to work directly with local businesses on real-world projects.

Young people will develop practical skills, gain valuable insight into modern manufacturing and present their ideas at a showcase event, bringing together participating schools and employers.

Julie Richards, Principal of Chesterfield College, and Destination Chesterfield board member, said:

“We are proud to continue our role as headline partner for Made in Chesterfield. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring our students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the local economy.”

Chesterfield College will play a central role in delivering the initiative as part of its wider work with employers to support skills, training and workforce development across the borough.

Showcasing a modern manufacturing sector

Alongside skills development, Made in Chesterfield provides a platform for businesses to showcase the innovation, technology and expertise driving the sector forward. The campaign also challenges outdated perceptions of manufacturing careers, highlighting the breadth of opportunities available locally.

Nick Catt, Managing Director at Weightron Bilanciai Ltd and Destination Chesterfield board member, said:

“Modern manufacturing is driven by innovation, technology and opportunity, and we have that in abundance here in Chesterfield.

“The challenge is ensuring our young people are aware of the exciting careers available right on their doorstep. Made in Chesterfield helps change that by giving a real insight into local businesses and the opportunities they offer.”

The initiative continues to build on strong foundations. In 2025, more than 100 young people took part in the first manufacturing activity day, working with six local businesses. Since launching in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has engaged with over 3,500 students across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Andrew Knowles, Headteacher at Tupton Hall School, added:

“Made in Chesterfield is a proven way to give our students valuable exposure to local employers. Our young people are the region’s future workforce, and opportunities like this help build confidence, raise aspirations and show them that successful careers can be built right here in Chesterfield.”

Get involved

Businesses across the manufacturing sector are now being invited to get involved by opening their doors, sharing their expertise and demonstrating the products, technologies and skills that make Chesterfield a leading manufacturing location.

The programme will also include a Made in Chesterfield celebration event in October at Chesterfield College, bringing together Chesterfield Champions, partners and stakeholders.

Delivered in partnership with organisations including Barrow Hill Roundhouse, CBE+, Chesterfield Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council, Tupton Hall School, United Cast Bar, Weightron Bilanciai and the Work-wise Foundation, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to developing skills and supporting business growth.

Businesses interested in taking part can register their interest and find out more by contacting: info@chesterfield.co.uk

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

Chesterfield’s partnership approach is delivering £2bn of regeneration opportunity

2nd July 2026

Chesterfield’s reputation as a place where public and private sectors work in partnership is helping unlock a £2 billion programme of regeneration and investment opportunities across the borough.

At a roundtable held during UKREiiF, the UK’s biggest regeneration and investment conference, leaders from development, planning, construction and local government pointed to a consistent theme behind that progress: collaboration.

Andy Dabbs, Managing Executive Director at Whittam Cox Architects, said the borough’s proactive approach is making a difference in a challenging market:

“It’s very easy to sit back and wait for the problem to be resolved for you, but what I’ve seen Chesterfield do time and time again is take positive action.

Developments don’t just happen; it’s the ability to engage the private sector, attract funding and build confidence. It feels like Chesterfield has gone against the odds.”

Long-term partnerships delivering results

That collaborative approach is reflected in major projects such as Markham Vale, a long-term regeneration scheme delivered through a partnership between Derbyshire County Council and HBD over two decades.

Tom Wheldon, Executive Director at HBD, said: “That’s a 20-year partnership where you align your company’s interests with the council’s objectives. If you get that alignment right and continue that dialogue, you can achieve great things.”

Highlighting its impact, he added: “There are now more people employed at Markham Vale than were employed in the coal mine; that’s a huge success for regeneration.”

Across the borough, partnership working has already delivered significant outcomes, including more than 1,100 jobs created or safeguarded through the new Grade A workspace developments of One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

Leadership building confidence

A clear message from investors is that Chesterfield offers consistency, clarity and a willingness to work together.

Rhian Davitt-Jones, Director at CBRE, said: “Public sector investment has been critical in driving and de-risking opportunities, setting the building blocks for growth.”

Ken Harrison, Director of Spatial Development at East Midlands Combined County Authority, added: “The ambition of Chesterfield is phenomenal. You’re doing some really stretching things for a town of its size.”

Alex Hyams, Head of Mixed-Use Asset Management at Milligan, said: “The council’s relationships at every level are very progressive, easy to engage with, and when you look at the fundamentals, there is still huge potential.”

Liam Hawkins, Operations Director at Maylim, said Chesterfield’s delivery on the ground played a direct role in the company’s decision to invest in the area:

“It was coming to Chesterfield and seeing the works in the market square that allowed me to convince the other directors that we should branch out.

The standard of design and the projects being delivered made it a really attractive place for us.”

Investing in people and skills

Alongside physical regeneration, there is a strong focus on developing local talent.

Andrew Byrne, Group Development Director at the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, highlighted the impact of the award-winning Construction Skills Hub: “It’s a perfect example of partnership, a relatively small project, but one that can make a huge difference.”

That focus is delivering measurable outcomes – through local labour clauses 474 jobs have been created with 23 apprenticeships and £5.7 million of local contracts created in a single year.

Shaun Lunn, Director at AtkinsRéalis, added: “Chesterfield is a tremendous source of talent. We bring in apprentices and graduates every year because they’re a great pipeline.”

A place with a clear identity

For Paul Holden, Director at Peak Architects, the borough’s success also comes from staying true to its identity:

“The developments are reinforcing the strengths of the town, the people and the spaces and pushing it forward without losing what it’s about.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, added: “Putting our communities first has been at the heart of everything we do. Development must benefit local people.”

A platform for the next phase of growth

With a £2 billion pipeline, a strong track record of delivery and a clear partnership approach, Chesterfield is positioned as a compelling location for investment.

As Andrew Byrne concluded: “One of the biggest advantages Chesterfield has is the people who collaborate and are advocates for the place.”

Developers, investors and occupiers can discover more about the next phase of growth at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

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

£107m investment plan set to drive growth and opportunity across the East Midlands

1st July 2026

A £107m investment programme approved on Monday, 29th June 2026, will support business growth, skills development and thriving communities across Derbyshire, including Chesterfield.

A major £107 million Local Growth Fund programme is moving forward, marking a significant step in strengthening the East Midlands economy and creating new opportunities for people and businesses across the region.

Backed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Investment Committee, 17 programmes have now been endorsed to progress towards delivery. The funding will support a wide range of initiatives designed to drive long-term economic growth across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

For Chesterfield, the programme presents a strong opportunity to unlock further investment, support local businesses and strengthen the town’s role as a key economic centre within Derbyshire.

Driving investment into places and communities

More than £18m has been allocated to programmes focused on creating thriving places, including town centre regeneration, rural development and improved digital connectivity. Community-led energy initiatives and social investment projects will also play a key role in strengthening local neighbourhoods.

In addition, a £30m Housing and Regeneration Investment Fund will support the delivery of new homes and revitalise communities, alongside a £1.6m programme aimed at bringing empty homes back into use and tackling homelessness.

These initiatives will help ensure that places like Chesterfield continue to evolve as attractive, well-connected locations for residents, businesses and investors.

Supporting skills and unlocking opportunity

A further £17m will be invested in the ‘Opportunity Escalator’ programme, which focuses on helping people into work, improving skills and supporting employers to develop their workforce.

This includes targeted support through economic inactivity, skills co-investment and youth ambition programmes. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen employment pathways and ensure businesses across Derbyshire have access to a skilled and future-ready workforce.

Backing businesses to grow

Business growth is a central pillar of the programme, with more than £21m allocated to initiatives that will help firms scale, export and compete.

Funding will be delivered through a range of programmes, including the Business Investment Fund, Scale Up, Local Business Support and Visitor Economy initiatives. These are designed to provide tailored support to businesses of all sizes, helping to unlock investment and drive economic resilience.

For Chesterfield-based businesses, this investment offers new opportunities to access funding, expand operations and reach new markets.

Boosting innovation and future industries

A further £12.3m will support innovation and cluster development, fostering collaboration between businesses, universities and research organisations. This will help accelerate growth in priority sectors and ensure the region remains competitive in emerging industries.

Alongside this, a £2m feasibility fund will help bring forward new ideas and ensure projects are investment-ready, supporting a pipeline of future developments.

A long-term vision for growth

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“Growing the economy in all parts of this region needs us to invest in different ways at the same time. Whether it is investing into places, investing into businesses, or investing into people: all of it matters.

These projects will make a real difference in helping our high streets to thrive, enabling business success, and ensuring that more people can shape and benefit from our region’s growth.”

The Local Growth Fund forms a central part of EMCCA’s Growth Plan for 2026–2030, which aims to support 60,000 more people into work, deliver 100,000 new homes and add £13 billion to the regional economy.

For Chesterfield, this investment reinforces its position as a key location for growth, offering new opportunities for businesses, residents and investors to benefit from a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.

Find out more about business support in Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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