Business

Accessibility improvements made at Peak Edge Hotel and Red Lion Restaurant

The Peak Edge Hotel and Red Lion Restaurant has undergone recent improvements to improve accessibility at the venue.

With the building originally developed in the 18th century but still thriving in the 21st century, the hotel ownership and staff have developed the venue to meet modern accessibility standards.

The works will enable more people to enjoy the food, drink and hospitality offer at Peak Edge.

Improvements to the property over recent years include dedicated parking, accessible rooms, wide corridors, lifts and access ramps to the rear of the property. However the hotel found integrating the restaurant with the rest of the building a challenge.

In response to this, the hotel’s owner, Steve Perez, reached out to Access Lifts in late 2023, with the main obstacle being the tight constraints of the stone built corridors leading up to the restaurant, with no space for a conventional platform lift.

Therefore, the only viable solution was a Hidden Platform Lift. This new Hidden Platform Lift allows the corridor and steps leading up to the entrance to be used as normal when the lift is in its resting position, but the lift features an on-platform handrail with controls to allow the restaurant and hotel guests to move between the two levels.

The lift has been supplied with remote control key fobs for use by members of staff too, if any guests require assistance. The lift has been neatly finished with wooden floorboards to match the surrounding floor and steps, and is already in use.

Steve was committed to this investment to improve accessibility for guests. He commented: “We knew we needed a better solution to provide easier access, particularly between the hotel and the bar and restaurant and it took some time to find the right solution and it is part of an ongoing journey.”

Steve added: “A coaching inn in 1788 was never designed for modern usage or to modern standards and we continue to invest to improve accessibility whilst maintaining the character and history of the place. Visitors will have seen the original stone with 1788 engraved in it in the bar and they love the original features.

“We need to keep modernising and providing the best quality and standards for all our guests,” added Steve, “but the history is definitely part of our charm. When you are next in, take a look at our photo wall with all the old images on it. There’s a great shot of what the Walton Suite used to look like and we’ve recently discovered some bills from the 1970’s which really show how times have changed.”

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

Peak Edge Hotel

 

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Destination Chesterfield Chair wins prestigious property award

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow has won a prestigious regional award for his services to the property and construction sector.

Peter took home the Property Personality of the Year Award at the Insider South Yorkshire Property Dinner 2024.

The event at Sheffield City Hall celebrated the best completed projects, deals and industry individuals in the region, with the Property Personality category being voted for by colleagues across the property sector.

As co-founder of Bolsterstone Group, Peter has worked on and delivered a variety of projects in our area. One of Peter’s main regeneration projects in our town has been the Chesterfield Waterside Scheme, which has seen success with new housing and a modern seven-storey office, One Waterside Place, built and already fully occupied.

Further development at Waterside seeks to deliver a hotel, multi-storey car park and residential accommodation, centred around the new canal basin and a pedestrianised public realm.

peter swallow

Speaking on his award win, Peter Swallow commented: “I was surprised and thrilled to receive the Property Personality award. It was made even more special by the fact that it was voted for by colleagues across the regional property sector.

“I would like to thank all those people for their support and would also like to express my gratitude for the collaboration across the sector, which has enabled regeneration across several key sites in our region.

“Many congratulations to all the winners and nominees at the event, Our role as a sector in making towns and cities better places to live, work, and play should never be underestimated.”

Further investment opportunities are available at Chesterfield Waterside and across our town. Find out more about why Chesterfield is ideally located to support the growth of your business at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

Peter Swallow collects property award on stage

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East Midlands Mayor meets new Prime Minister to discuss devolution

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has been Downing Street with the country’s regional mayors to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to discuss more powers and funding for the East Midlands.

Mayor Claire attended a high-level roundtable for UK Mayors as the government announced it was setting up a council for regions and nations to support a drive to loosen Westminster’s “tight grip” over big cities and regions.

The Prime Minister said: “I’m a great believer in the idea that those with skin in the game – those that know their communities – make much better decisions.”

The government has said it wants to give more power to the regions, recognising the part regions like the East Midlands have to play in delivering economic growth – a central pledge by the new government.

Mayor Claire said: “It’s the beginning of a new era for our villages, towns and cities. After years of languishing at the bottom of every funding league table, the East Midlands will finally get the investment it deserves. I wholeheartedly welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to giving our communities more of a say on some of the most important issues.

“I think it’s significant that the roundtable took place so early in the government’s first week in charge. Both the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister understand that mayors are uniquely placed to make the best decisions for the places we serve and know that we can lead the drive for growth across the country.

“It was, of course, a thrill to be in Downing Street and make the case for our great region. There are many challenges ahead, but I’m confident we’ll have great support from the government to make our region the best place to live, to work and to learn.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an ideal location to base your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Claire Ward and regional mayors stood in front of London bus

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Award wins for Chesterfield’s new Emergency Department

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Emergency Department continues to receive accolades, this time with a ‘highly commended’ at the Constructing Excellence East Midlands awards.

The ceremony recognises exceptional and innovative designs that have made a positive social impact.

Officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 12 July last year, the £27m state-of-the-art Emergency Department was shortlisted in two separate categories in the East Midlands region: Integration and Collaborative Working, and Building Project of the Year.

Constructing Excellence is a membership organisation that exists to drive a better construction sector and an improved built environment through innovation, best practice and collaboration.

The awards, which are judged by a panel of industry experts, are designed to showcase how organisations are living the Constructing Excellence principles.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “We are delighted to receive this award, alongside our construction partners – DSFS and IHP (the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine). A lot of hard work and dedication went into the build of our ED, and it is a good example of putting our patients at the centre of everything we do.

“With an innovative approach to patient flow, highly specialised equipment, ultra-modern technology and a fresh and bright interior – even using locally sourced artwork. We are very proud of our exceptional ED and equally proud of all the people who work in the department to look after our patients.”

This is not the first time Chesterfield’s ED has won an award – it also scoped the ‘Best Interior Design category’ in the national ‘Building Better Healthcare Awards’ in November 2023.

Adrian Leigh, Senior Project Manager for Integrated Health Projects (the Trust’s construction partner), said: “It is real kudos for us and the Trust to have been shortlisted for an award by Constructing Excellence East Midlands.

“The fact that we have been highlighted for Integration and Collaborative Working is a positive reflection on the close working relationship between all partners involved, to create this unique construction.

“From involving the people that would be working in the new ED to the people using it, getting this award one year on from delivery is amazing validation for all the hard work that went into making Chesterfield’s ED the best it could be.”

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

HRH Princess Royal opening new emergency department

HRH The Princess Royal opening Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s new Emergency Department.

 

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New EV charging hub to open in the centre of Chesterfield

An ultra-rapid EV charging hub is set to open within just a few minutes’ walk of Chesterfield’s historic marketplace.

Residents and visitors in the town will benefit from a new eight-bay charging station, which will be situated off Saltergate.

The new charging hub has been installed by Be.EV, and is set to launch this Friday with a special half price offer for its app users.

The ultra-rapid chargers, which Be.EV says are the fastest in Chesterfield, can add up to 165 miles of range in a short 20-minute stop (compared to several hours on a 7kW fast charger).

Switched on and available for use, the Chesterfield hub joins the north’s largest public EV charging network that connects communities nationwide.

Chesterfield has nearly 3,500 EVs, and the installation will help accelerate the EV transition in the town, and for the wider Midlands region. This is one of Be.EV’s first charging sites in the region, and the charging network already operates over 700 charge points nationwide.

Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, says: ”We’re very pleased to bring ultra-rapid, ultra-convenient EV charging to Chesterfield and to have expanded our network in the Midlands.

“We’re on a mission to roll out reliable chargers to communities nationwide that need them, and this location will provide market-goers and local residents with future-proofed, ultra-rapid charging.

“The UK needs to transition to cleaner transport, and ensuring we have the infrastructure to support this shift is critical to our environmental goals.

“Other landowners and local authorities should take note. As more and more people choose to drive EVs, they’ll naturally gravitate to destinations where they can conveniently charge their car whilst shopping.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “The opening of the new charging hub on Saltergate is welcome news for our town, as residents and businesses look to make more sustainable choices.

“Having this site in the town centre will give EV users the opportunity to pop into local shops, cafes and restaurants too, providing a boost to our high street businesses.”

For those wanting to use the site, its full address is 85 Saltergate, Chesterfield, S40 1JR.

During last month’s World Environment Day, businesses in Chesterfield’s network of Chesterfield Champions showcased how they are transitioning to a more sustainable future. Find out more here. 

Car on charge at BE EV charging site, saltergate

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New strategy approved to meet housing needs in Chesterfield

A new three-year strategy – which outlines how Chesterfield Borough Council will ensure all local residents have access to a quality home that meets their needs – has been approved.

The strategy sets out the council’s housing ambitions from 2024 to 2027 for housing of all tenures across the borough – with the aim of ensuring that everyone in the community can access good quality, affordable and well managed homes.

The new strategy has been developed in line with consultation feedback received from tenants, residents and elected members.

It sets out the programme of activities and initiatives that the council will deliver over the next three years and identifies seven key priorities for the housing service to focus on:

  • Continuing to deliver more homes by building more properties
  • Providing homes that are affordable
  • Investing in and improving the quality of existing homes
  • Climate change and decarbonisation
  • Following legislation set out in the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023
  • The provision of specialist and supported accommodation
  • Tackling homelessness and rough sleeping

Stancliffe homes construction building

Councillor Jean Innes, cabinet member for housing, said: “We understand that a home is much more than just bricks and mortar and our new housing strategy highlights how we can improve the range of homes available across the borough and help to improve the lives of local people.

“The strategy does not just focus on council properties. It also highlights how we are going to work with all of our residents to ensure they can access quality accommodation that meets their needs.

“The strategy has been developed at what continues to be a challenging time for local government, as well as for our communities – as we all face the impact of rising inflation, the increased cost of living, the legacy of the pandemic, and greater demand for housing services both locally and nationally.

“But despite this challenging context we remain determined in our commitment to ensure everyone in our borough can access an affordable and quality home and our newly adopted strategy sets out how we will achieve this.

“We really value the thoughts of our local residents and partners and are always looking for ways that they can have their say and help to shape our services. That is why we wanted to consult with them on the new strategy and have taken their feedback on board to make sure that it focuses on the most relevant issues which will allow us to make the greatest impact over the next three years.”

The strategy has a strong role to play in helping the council reach its target of becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2050, by establishing plans to decarbonise its own housing stock and support the decarbonisation of the borough’s private sector housing stock.

As well as ensuring its own stock meets the government’s Decent Homes Standard, the council will also enforce conditions in the private rented sector to ensure that private landlords supply good quality, healthy and safe private rented properties.

The full strategy is available to view at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/housing-strategy

badger croft chesterfield

Living in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is centrally located in the heart of England with close proximity to the Peak District National Park and several major UK cities.

Did you know our town is rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands? Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Grandma, mum and kids reading a book together in the garden

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GCL Products Ltd announces partnership with Spanish stone supplier

Chesterfield-based building solutions company, GCL Products Ltd has announced a new partnership with Téseris Stone, becoming an official stockist of their products in the United Kingdom.

The collaboration aims to enhance the construction and aesthetic quality across residential and commercial properties, as well as improving the availability of much-desired Spanish marble in the UK market.

Téseris Stone is a Spanish company renowned for its high-quality marble and stone products. Specialising in the extraction, processing, and distribution of natural stone, Téseris Stone offers a diverse range of products that cater to various construction and design needs.

By partnering with Téseris Stone, GCL Products Ltd is now able to offer a variety of top-tier marble and stone options sourced from some of the finest quarries in Spain. Téseris Stone is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation, with each stone product meeting rigorous standards. This partnership will enable architects, developers, and homeowners access to a broader range of premium materials for their surfacing needs.

Fergus Slack, Managing Director of GCL Products Ltd. commented: “We are excited to team up with Téseris Stone, known for their exquisite stone products. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing our clients with high-quality, durable materials that not only meet but exceed their surfacing requirements.

“Our customers can now enjoy more variety and higher quality in their choice of materials for resin bound projects.”

The business is a member of Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group, which brings together organisation across the sector to raise the profile of our town. The group regularly holds events and discussions to share best practice around quality, sustainability, skills and other issues affecting the property sector.

Find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

 

Teseris stone GCL Products 873

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Chesterfield business leaders react to Labour’s general election win

The Chair of Destination Chesterfield and the Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber have both given their views on the general election result.

This morning, it has been confirmed that the Labour Party will govern the country after securing a large majority in the commons.

Reacting to this morning’s news, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to the new Prime Minister, and to all candidates who took part in the election campaign.

“Countless hours of work go into campaigning ahead of a general election, ensuring voters are well informed of each party’s priorities.

“A change in leadership for the country will mean potential new opportunities for Chesterfield, as we look forward to unlocking further investment for our region.

“Recent regeneration projects which have taken place across Chesterfield show that partnership working between the public and private sectors are vital to boosting growth and jobs. Therefore, we are eager to continue this collaboration with the government to put forward Chesterfield’s case for further growth and investment in the future.”

peter swallow speaking at Celebrate

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber also reiterated the fact that government must play its part in unlocking economic growth for the region.

He said: “Business wants the best outcomes that will remove barriers to economic growth in the East Midlands and we look forward to hearing the new Government’s plans as soon as possible.

“Government’s purpose is to create an economic environment that allows businesses to invest, to create and sustain jobs – and then to get out of the way to allow business to thrive. That’s what the business community needs for growth in the East Midlands and we stand ready to advise and hold the new government to account at both national and regional level to ensure that enacting the needs of our region’s businesses is top of the list.

“Business currency is confidence – confidence means growth, investment into people, plant and machinery and digital transformation. Our Manifesto for Growth sets out what businesses in the East Midlands need across the areas of Investment, Innovation, International Trade and Infrastructure. We’ve presented it to Westminster; it’s ready for the new government to get on with and I urge its implementation.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is ideally located to be the base for your business.

Scott Knowles

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber

 

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Spireites collaborate with fellow Chesterfield business to create exciting new product for fans

Chesterfield Football Club has collaborated with local business and fellow Chesterfield Champion, CarMats.co.uk to launch a custom product for supporters.

Spireites who want to add a personal touch to their motors can now purchase car mats with a Chesterfield FC logo on, ensuring the club crest travels with them wherever they go to support the team for the club’s first season back in the EFL.

The mats come in a variety of materials and can be customised with a selection of colour, trim and embroidery options. All mats are made to order in the UK.

Ash Young, owner of CarMats.co.uk commented: “We are delighted to have been able to support the club during their promotion winning campaign and took great delight in seeing our logo in the background of so many memorable moments last season.

“As a treasured community asset, we know how important it is to support the work the football club does both on and off the pitch.”

“We hope our Official Chesterfield FC car mats will be the perfect travel companion for supporters on their trips to Football League grounds next season.

Chesterfield FC Marketing Manager, Bridget Ball said: “We are delighted to be working with a local company to provide club-branded car mats.

“We always try to source products locally and support local enterprises, so it is great to be working with Ash and his colleagues.

“I’m sure that the mats will prove to be very popular with our supporters!”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It is very encouraging to see our Chesterfield Champions collaborating to boost our local economy. Business collaboration encourages innovation, creates further growth and opportunity, and drives sustainable growth. By working together, businesses can unlock new potential and contribute to Chesterfield’s growing economy.”

Supporters can order the mats exclusively at https://carmats.co.uk/pages/chesterfield-fc-car-mats

The Spireites begin their pre-season fixtures away at Matlock Town this weekend, before also facing the likes of Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and Derby County in the coming weeks. The first game of the new season will see Chesterfield face Swindon Town at home, on Friday, 9th August.

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

Chesterfield FC Car Mats

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Whittam Cox Architects secures place in prestigious top 100 list

Chesterfield-based Whittam Cox has secured a place in a prestigious listing, which highlights the UK’s top 100 architectural practices.

The firm says its placing in the AJ100 list is a testament to the team’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence in design and innovation.

Over the past year, Whittam Cox has continued to make significant progress as a practice contributing to its position in the rankings.

Nick Riley, Board Director at Whittam Cox, commented: “We are incredibly pleased to see our progress reflected in the AJ100 rankings. This recognition is a testament to our dedicated team and the collaborative efforts with our clients and partners.

“We are particularly proud of our continued work across all sectors, from large-scale urban regenerations to nationwide retail rollouts. The launch of our new business plan and our ongoing focus on creating the best environment for our employees, along with the introduction of our ‘Progressive by Design’ initiative, underscore our commitment to forward-thinking and sustainable design.”

The AJ100, compiled by the Architect’s Journal, is the definitive list of the top architectural practices in the UK. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the market and highlights emerging trends within the industry.

Whilst the work of Whittam Cox takes the company and its staff around the entire UK, its focus and impact in Chesterfield are of equal importance to the organisation. Supporting local communities, economy and built environment is something the company is passionate about. Whittam Cox has been involved in recent projects such as the Chesterfield Station Masterplan, Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, Chesterfield Waterside and many others.

The company is also a member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, which Whittam Cox Director Andy Dabbs currently chairs.

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

Whittam Cox architects team

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Chesterfield entrepreneur nominated for two Enterprising Women Awards

The owner of a Chesterfield structural engineering business has been shortlisted in two categories at East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women Awards.

Laura Holland, of Ecotech Engineers is amongst the finalists for the Small Business of the Year Award and Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

The nominations come fresh off the back of Laura also being nominated for a Generation Next Award, an East Midlands Chamber event which recognises young entrepreneurs and talent in the region.

The event, which takes place in Leicestershire on 20th September will celebrate the best female entrepreneurial talent across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

Reacting to the nomination, Laura said: “I was so pleased to get this news after a whirlwind of a month personally and professionally!

“I’m honoured to be shortlisted with all these amazing women in Business for Small Business of the Year and Female Entrepreneur – especially now I have my own little lady to hope to inspire.

“Another nod to the brilliant team of Ecotech Engineers Ltd and everything we have accomplished over the last 4 years!”

Enterprising Women Co-Chair Eileen Perry said: “On International Women’s Day the theme was ‘Inspire Inclusion’ and these awards are part of embracing and celebrating our differences. The theme of promoting, growing and succeeding is something that we see year on year with the people that apply for the awards. There are people who, for example, have applied for a category like Apprentice of the Year and then gone on to win Female Entrepreneur of the Year. It’s not about the fall of men; it’s about the rise of women and believing in themselves more.”

Enterprising Women Co-Chair Jean Mountain said: “Year in, year out, over the years these awards have been phenomenal. We’ve been doing these awards for around 15 years now and the standard of entries gets higher and higher each year. We set the bar really high and you see it with the fabulous names of finalists that come through and the companies they represent.”

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

laura holland ecotech engineers

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