Business

Inspiring the next generation of construction workers

Young people from across Derbyshire took part in an event which aimed to provide them with more information about the range of careers available in the construction industry and gave them the opportunity to try some of the skills needed.

During the two-day event at the Construction Skills Hub, the participants took part in a variety of activities including bricklaying, joinery, roofing, operating a mini digger, a tour of the Mastin Moor site and an interactive challenge where they needed to plan and construct towers using spaghetti and marshmallows. They also had the opportunity to speak with experts from the sector about opportunities in construction.

The event was organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, Action for Construction and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) with G F Tomlinson, Devonshire Group, Harron Homes, Drury Joinery, and Bowmer & Kirland supporting the event.

It was held at the Staveley Town Deal funded Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor, which provides an innovative approach to construction training with students studying on a live construction site, where they can gain both skills and experience in the sector.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management said: “It’s fantastic to see so many young people take part in this event which is a fun and engaging way of providing information on the roles available in the construction industry. It will give young people the experience they need to make informed decisions about their future and how they can have a great career in our borough.

“Collaboration like this between businesses, the public sector and education sector is crucial to providing relevant and up to date information for young people, and I want to thank all our partners who helped ensure this event was a success.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School – Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive at Chesterfield College, said: “Our construction skills hub is an innovative site for education, and we are delighted to welcome the eight schools to enjoy an invaluable experience here. Construction and wider practical skills are often under-represented in secondary curriculum, so days like today are crucial to show leaners the benefits of studying in a different way.

“A career in the construction industry is exciting, rewarding and can take you to see many parts of the world. This careers event will be one of many ways in which we showcase the benefits of studying in this industry. We strive to work with as many learners as we can and would welcome schools to contact us to join in on these experiences.”

Alex McClymont, Engagement Advisor for Derby and Derbyshire at CITB, said: “These events are something we get really excited for each time. Getting new people in to construction is a big challenge and one we’re addressing head on, alongside local partners. Groups of year 9 and 10 students from local schools, rolled up their sleeves and explored construction through activities like bricklaying, joinery, machine driving, sparking interest in rewarding careers. Events like these are vital for inspiring diverse young talent to help address the industry’s skills gap, ensuring a strong pipeline for our local workforce.”

Rachel Cracknell, Head of Personal Development at Netherthorpe School, said: “This has been a very exciting opportunity for our students. It has provided them with hands-on experience across a range of construction trades and has not only helped raise aspirations but has given them the chance to meet potential future employers.

“The students have absolutely loved the experience and for some, this has helped to confirm that they want to aspire for a career in construction. We would like to thank everyone involved in planning such an inspiring and creative event and would love the opportunity to come back again in the future!”

The pupils who took part in the event came from a variety of schools across Derbyshire including Netherthorpe School, Whittington Green School, Springwell Community College, Holly House School, Ashgate Croft School, Mercia Academy, Derby Cathedral School, St Benedicts Catholic Voluntary Academy, Ecclesbourne School and The Bolsover School.

The Construction Skills Hub provides students with trade-based skills and qualifications in things like groundworks, brickwork, and joinery on a live construction site. This allows them to also gain the experience needed to access careers in the construction sector, and in time the Hub will support degree level apprenticeships.

Over ten years, the Hub aims to provide careers insights, training and work experience for over 5,000 learners with qualifications delivered by Chesterfield College and the University of Derby.

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/staveley-town-deal-projects/construction-skills-hub

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

Work begins at Hartington Commerce Park

Work has started to build a new industrial site in Staveley that will help attract new businesses and create more jobs as part of a regional growth strategy.

Hartington Commerce Park is a 20-hectare site that has outline planning permission for industrial and warehouse development and work has started with a new access road which will connect the site with Hall Lane. The project is led and owned by Tawnywood Ltd.

Development of the site is primarily funded by the private sector but funding from the Staveley Town Deal is being used for enabling works on the site, including the creation of the new access point and connecting the site with utilities.

Once complete Hartington Commerce Park will form part of the Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone which will support the growth of the advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors.

The initial works have seen the new entrance to the site cleared in preparation for an access road and utility connections which will help encourage further development of the site.

The Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone is part of an initiative funded by the Government and led by East Midlands Combined County Authority. It aims to drive economic growth and create thousands of jobs across the region.

The next phases of development at Hartington Commerce Park will see the access road completed. Buildings will then be developed as businesses confirm they want space on the site.

Learn more about the site and the East Midlands Investment Zone at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November at the Casa Hotel – Book your place now.

Discover more about the projects of the Staveley Town Deal.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield’s manufacturing sector says it must stay proactive to thrive

Chesterfield’s manufacturing sector is navigating a challenging economic landscape. But local leaders say the key to long-term success lies in collaboration, proactive engagement, and a shared commitment to shaping the future.

At a recent roundtable hosted by Destination Chesterfield in partnership with the Derbyshire Times, the manufacturing industry and support organisations discussed the sector’s resilience. Participants stressed, however, that resilience alone would not be enough.

Ivan Fomin of MSE Hiller said, “You can’t sell to customers who aren’t investing. We’ve got the technology and talent, but without demand, we’re treading water.

“Yet, if we want to lay the groundwork for future growth, we must continue to engage with the wider eco-system, from mock interviews to celebratory initiatives like Made in Chesterfield. We’ve got a very cooperative business community. It’s not everywhere. When I talk about it in other places, they wish they had what we have in Chesterfield.”

The need to develop networks was echoed by Josh Kirkwood of Graphoidal. He said, “We’re keen to engage with colleges and support initiatives that showcase what manufacturing in Chesterfield is all about. Even when times are tough, it’s vital to keep those relationships strong.”

The round table also showcased how education providers are stepping up. Chesterfield College is launching a new Engineering, Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre, alongside a fresh approach to business partnerships.

“We’re building a framework to understand what employers need, reward collaboration, and measure impact,” said Rhys Robinson, Director of Engineering and Digital Services to Business. “It’s not just about guest lectures – it’s about shaping curriculum and outcomes.”

The University of Derby is also evolving its strategy.

“We’re aiming to be the most industry-engaged university in the UK,” said Rob Ricketts, Industry Engagement Lead. “Every academic must bring industry into their teaching. Students will leave with real experience, not just theory.”

Manufacturing is deeply embedded in Chesterfield’s identity.

“We’ve got 335 manufacturing businesses – 9% of our total – compared to a national average of 4.5%,” said Lynda Sharp from Chesterfield Borough Council. “A significant portion of our workforce is employed in the sector.”

Support for this key sector is available from East Midlands Chamber, Chesterfield Borough Council, and Destination Chesterfield, offering routes to access funding, skills development, and strategic advice. But as Ian Bates from the Chamber noted: “Businesses say they need help, but they don’t always engage.”

Practical steps for manufacturers to build networks:

Discover support for your business: http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support

Join the next Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Manufacturing Forum on 21st October at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-and-north-derbyshire-manufacturing-forum

Posted in Blog, Business, Home, Manufacturing

NeoDyne expands its Chesterfield office

NeoDyne has recently taken on further office space in Spire Walk in Chesterfield to support its rapid growth.

NeoDyne is building a hub for advanced engineering and digital technology in Chesterfield. From BESS and Biomethane Gas Injection to global MES rollouts, NeoDyne is driving innovation on projects like Botley BESS and UK-wide energy initiatives, while supporting customers across Europe and beyond.

Matt Close from NeoDyne said, “The company was reaching the point where we were outgrowing its current space. Expanding our high-quality Chesterfield office space made good sense to build on the investment made two and a half years ago when we first invested in the United Kingdom.

NeoDyne’s culture is heavily based on employing young, talented people and seeing them grow when they invest in them. Since they started two and a half years ago, they have employed over 10 graduates and two apprentices, as well as some more experienced staff.

Matt continued, “ While this is far quicker than they expected, we are looking to replicate this growth over the coming years and will need additional office space to accommodate the additional resources.

We look to recruit graduates and apprentices in engineering roles, from Electrical Engineers, Automation, Digital Manufacturing, and similar skills.”

Chesterfield is currently NeoDyne’s only office in the UK.  Its location provides Neodyne with a good central base and excellent transportation options. It also offers a strong pool of local engineering talent, especially from the local universities with which it partners.  Recently, they have also undertaken a promotional video to strengthen their ties with the University of Sheffield.

Matt added, “Chesterfield plays a vital role in NeoDyne’s UK operations by combining strategic connectivity with a strong talent proposition. Its excellent transport links provide efficient access to clients and industry hubs. Realistic house prices and quality schools create an attractive environment for staff seeking work-life balance. This blend of accessibility, affordability, and lifestyle advantages not only supports effective customer service but also strengthens NeoDyne’s ability to attract and retain high-calibre talent.”

Discover more about the benefits of investing in Chesterfield.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Skills

Chesterfield careers programme celebrates inspiring young people for two years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about Staveley Town Deal Projects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chesterfield celebrates National Manufacturing Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capital Angling hooks unit at Markham Vale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Pandora opens new concept store at Vicar Lane

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about shopping in Chesterfield

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

Tourism in Peak District and Derbyshire worth £3.58 billion

Tourism in the Peak District and Derbyshire continues to thrive, with new STEAM (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Monitor) figures for 2024 revealing a record £3.58 billion contribution to the local economy – a 9.1% increase on 2023, or around 6% in real terms, when adjusted for inflation.

The latest data highlights the growing strength and resilience of the area’s visitor economy and highlights the significant impact of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire in its role as the region’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), with its value-over-volume approach driving sustainable, long-term economic growth across the region.

Highlights from the 2024 figures include:

  • Overnight stays have seen the most significant growth, up 14% on 2023 (approximately 11% in real terms), demonstrating increased demand for longer, higher-value visits.
  • Serviced accommodation has led the way, with a remarkable 7% increase year-on-year (26% in real terms), highlighting strong performance for the destination’s hotels, B&Bs and inns.
  • Visitor days remain stable and consistent with 2023 levels, supporting the region’s strategy of prioritising value over sheer visitor volume.
  • Employment supported directly and indirectly by tourism has reached 33,000, an increase of 6%, underlining the sector’s vital role in local job creation.
  • Data includes insights from short-term lets (including Airbnb), providing a comprehensive and accurate picture of the visitor economy.
  • Visitor satisfactions also high, with recent surveys reporting a 6/10 satisfaction score based on feedback from those who have visited the Peak District in the past 6 months.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “These outstanding figures are a testament to the strength and appeal of the Peak District and Derbyshire as a world-class visitor destination. We are particularly proud of the growth in overnight stays and serviced accommodation, which shows that our strategy to focus on value over volume is delivering tangible economic benefits.

“These impressive results clearly demonstrate the impact of the work led by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire as the region’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), with a strong focus on attracting high-value visitors and championing sustainable tourism to build a more resilient, year-round visitor economy. We look forward to building on this success with continued collaboration across the region.”

Sir Richard FitzHerbert, Chair of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: ‘These record-breaking figures are fantastic news for the Peak District and Derbyshire and a clear sign of the vital importance of our visitor economy. Tourism is not only bringing billions into the local economy, but it is also supporting thousands of jobs and communities across the region. As Chair, I am immensely proud of the collaborative efforts that have made this possible, from our brilliant businesses to our dedicated partners. Together, we are ensuring that tourism continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, while celebrating and protecting the landscapes, heritage and hospitality that make the destination truly unique.’

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “Visitor economy is hugely important for the region, because it matters everywhere: to our cities, our market towns, and our rural areas.

“As these figures show, visitor economy plays a vital role in shaping the East Midlands’ identity and gives a major boost to our local economy, while also helping to protect our rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

“This growth reminds us of what we already know – the Peak District, Derbyshire, and indeed, the whole East Midlands are incredible places to live, work, and visit.”

The latest tourism figures align with the wider priorities of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), which recognises tourism as a key economic driver in the region’s future growth.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home