Destination Chesterfield

Gogglebox personality to headline Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference

20th January 2020

Gogglebox personality Baasit Siddiqui is headlining a free event next month which will bring together North Derbyshire’s business community and education sector ahead of the creation of thousands of jobs.

The Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference aims to strengthen links between education providers and local businesses to ensure school leavers are ready to take up an estimated 10,000 job opportunities that are being delivered as a result of more than £1bn of development in the borough of Chesterfield.

Baasit Siddiqui, who appears on the hit Channel 4 show with his brother and father (The Siddiqui Family) is the keynote speaker at the conference, which is being held at Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa, Brimington, from 8:00am – 10:30am on Wednesday 26 February.

A former teacher, who boasts 10 years of teaching experience, the TV personality is an expert on education and social mobility. He is the Managing Director of Siddiqui Education Ltd, a Derby-based company which uses his public profile and the positive reputation of the Siddiquis from Gogglebox to help motivate and inspire school children.

The conference is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, The D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub, and Destination Chesterfield.

At the conference, which returns for the fourth year, Mr Siddiqui will focus on how an education, which helps develop a range of transferable skills, can be used to support students as they progress through their educational and employability journey.

He will be joined by Rachel Quinn – Head of People and Skills at D2N2 LEP, Michael Timmins – Director of Water, Ports and Power North at AECOM and representatives from The Careers Enterprise Company and Cornerstone Business, as well as student council members at Whittington Green School.

The students at Whittington Green School are just some of more than 14,000 students in North Derbyshire, who are set to gain their GCSE and A Level qualifications in the next five years.

Councillor Terry Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, explained why the conference is so important to Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

He said: “One of the Council’s priorities is to ensure that local people benefit from the economic growth that we are seeing in Chesterfield and support them into local jobs and good careers. There are a number of significant growth and regeneration projects underway in the borough. Collectively, these projects provide an opportunity to put Chesterfield on a higher growth path and will bring the opportunity for local people to access up to 10,000 new jobs.”

“The conference plays an important role in bringing together both business and education leaders to ensure communication lines are open and young people can benefit from employment and training opportunities now and in the future within the town.”

Daniel Heffernan of The D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub added: “We’re delighted to be involved in the event which will showcase the fantastic collaboration that is already taking place in the area. Importantly it also brings together business and education leaders who are eager to understand how they can better support the regions young people. Ultimately this will help lead to improved employment opportunities, and subsequent economic growth.”

Places at the conference are limited. To find out more and to book your free place at the event, please click here.

North Derbyshire Careers Hub launched by D2N2

20th January 2020

Over one hundred people attended the launch of the North Derbyshire Careers Hub on 14 January. The hub is an initiative between D2N2 and the Careers and Enterprise Company designed to improve the life chances of the region’s young people.

At the launch, hosted at the Casa Hotel in Chesterfield, guests learned first-hand how the ambitions of the Hub will shape the future of young people. Attendees were encouraged to think about the skills that will be needed in the future workplace and new careers available in a rapidly changing landscape.

The North Derbyshire Careers Hub is made up of 21 schools and colleges working together to transform careers education for young people across the region. Careers Hub will maximise the quality and impact of careers support for young people across the north of the county.

Led by D2N2 with £80,000 in financial support from the Careers & Enterprise Company; the Careers Hub works collaboratively with universities, training providers, employers, Enterprise Advisers, and careers professionals alongside lead school Shirebrook Academy to deliver the Gatsby Benchmarks and improve careers outcomes for young people.

In addition, the hub also offers a central fund for employer engagement activities and training for a ‘Careers Leader’ in each school.

Amongst the speakers at the launch event were D2N2 Head of People & Skills Rachel Quinn, Abdul Bathin from the Careers & Enterprise Company, and Dom Stevens from Destination Chesterfield.

Local students also helped support the event with compare duties performed by Head boy of Tibshelf school, Max Derbyshire and refreshments provided by pupils from Stubbin Wood Special School.

Chloe Pearce, 14, from Outwood Academy Newbold said: “The event has been really interesting, especially seeing what goes on in careers behind the scenes and it’s been great getting students involved in the whole experience.”

D2N2 Careers Hub lead Dan Heffernan said of the launch: “I’m delighted to be managing this project on behalf of D2N2. This launch event showed the real appetite for change across North Derbyshire, and the team and I look forward to working closely with all our partners in the coming months.

“The North Derbyshire Careers Hub will play a key role in the long-term success of our region’s economy, building on the success of our existing Enterprise Advisor Network, and the strong partnerships between schools, colleges, and businesses.”

“We want to ensure young people get timely and relevant careers advice and meaningful encounters with the world of work. This will help lead to improved employment opportunities and subsequent economic growth.”

John Yarham, Interim Chief Executive of the Careers & Enterprise Company said: “This is brilliant news for young people in the county. The North Derbyshire Careers Hub will mean more and more young people get the opportunity to meet all and interact with a huge range of employers.

“These opportunities will help inspire young people, inform them about the different paths open to them, and prepare them for the world of work.”

The North Derbyshire Careers Hub is part of a wider network of hubs set up across the country by LEPs and supported by the Careers & Enterprise Company.

Hubs have garnered support from the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) and more than 100 ‘cornerstone employers’ across the country who have committed to driving and championing connections to the world of work; including Airbus, KPMG, Anglian Water and GCHQ.

The Careers Hubs are based on a pilot scheme by the Gatsby Foundation (which is behind the Gatsby Benchmarks, an internationally recognised ‘checklist’ of what schools and colleges need to do to provide the best careers advice) and the North-East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), run from 2015 to 2017.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield

Try something new this January

31st December 2019

Have you decided on your New Year’s resolution?

Choosing one, which you will be able to keep for longer than a few weeks, can be really challenging. But committing to try a few new experiences is something everyone can achieve, as well as having a lot of fun.

We’ve selected five ideas from Chesterfield businesses. Why not give them a go with your family, friends or colleagues?

1. Learn a new skill

If you enjoy getting creative, you may be inspired by Chesterfield College’s £15 taster courses in silversmithing or ceramics? These are a great way to try out a new hobby and if you enjoy the taster you can sign up for a six week course to perfect your skills.

Find out more about the Ceramics taster.
Find out more about the Silversmithing taster.

Or why not try your hand at gin making? Love Brewing on Chatsworth Road runs gin experiences every Friday and Saturday evening to get you started with your own bespoke flavours, including a 200ml bottle of your creation to take home (per pair).

Find out more about the Make Your Own Gin Experience.

2. Experience new local events

You may be feeling blue now the festivities are over, but now is a great time to plan your diary for 2020. There are plenty of exciting new events to look forward to as well as the return of many popular favourites.

Extreme Bike Battle
Chesterfield Autojumble Market
Make Your Own Gin Experience
Brampton Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
Sporting Dinner: An Evening with Paul Merson and Phil Thompson at Casa Hotel

Click here to find more local events updated throughout the year.

3. Support local businesses

How often do you shop locally? Are there small changes you could make to help boost the local economy?

S40 Local Magazine is supporting #FiverFest from 15th to 29th February and is spreading the message that if every adult in Chesterfield spends £5 per week in local independent shops rather than online or in supermarkets, we will boost our local economy by £20.4M per year.

Click here for details of many local businesses from solicitors to shops.

4. Become a volunteer

Have you thought about becoming a volunteer? It’s a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and give something back to the local community. These are just a few of the many valuable opportunities locally:-

If you’re a local employer, could you donate your time to support young people in Chesterfield with mock interviews or work experience? Click here for more information online.

If you’d like to support the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity, you could become a volunteer fundraiser. Some of the past fundraising activities have helped cancer and dementia patients with art therapy and activities, refurbished medical rooms and enabled the hospital to purchase new rehabilitation equipment. For more information click here.

At Citizens Advice Chesterfield there are a variety of roles to choose from: including adviser, telephone adviser, receptionist, trustee, campaigner, ambassador and fundraiser. Full training is given and you’d be part of a friendly group of volunteers. Click here for more information online or contact Linda Moore, Chair of the trustee board and a key fundraiser.

Perfect for people who love where they live, Chesterfield Visitor Centre and Museum are always looking for new volunteers. Click here to find out more.

Find more local charities here.

(Photo shows local builder, Avant Homes supporting local charity, Fairplay).

5. Taste local produce

You can add some colour to the dark January days with this new sparkling water from Chesterfield’s Franklin & Sons. Bursting with real, zesty fruit, the new range of Sister’s Soda is available in three unique combinations. The Sister’s Soda range has three unique flavours including Guava & Lime, Pomegranate & Hibiscus and Pineapple & Cardamom and is available in pubs and bars across Chesterfield as well as supermarkets. Click here for more information online.

Or have you tried the delicious gluten free Coffee and Walnut cake from Liza Bakes? A finalist at the national British Baker Awards in the gluten free category, the popular treat has a rich coffee flavour and nutty texture and you would never guess it’s gluten free! Available in a selection of cafes across Chesterfield or or click here to see more online.

For more information about local producers click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield

Chesterfield: A review of the year

20th December 2019

While 2019 has been another year of political uncertainty, one thing that has remained consistent is Chesterfield’s progress.

Destination Chesterfield and its many Champions forged ahead with their plans, providing a solid platform for further growth and development in 2020.

2019 was the year that major developments started to come out of the ground, resulting in jobs and exciting new venues being created in the town centre.

The new Premier Inn hotel opened in April 2019 on the first and second floors of the former Co-op department store on Elder Way, forming part of the Northern Gateway development. It created 37 new jobs and is currently achieving an occupancy rate of around 90% at weekends and an impressive 60% during the week – helping the town increase its number of overnight stays and footfall.

Increasing footfall was high on the agenda for Chesterfield town centre in 2019 with retailers, the council and Destination Chesterfield coming together to collectively promote the town, helping attract visitors and new businesses to high streets throughout the borough.

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre received national recognition for its contribution to increasing footfall in the town centre in December when it won the gold award in the Re:wired category at the prestigious REVO Gold Awards which recognise and celebrate the best examples of innovative retail property technology.

Vicar Lane and its owner Alterx have worked with tech specialist Maybe*Tech to engage with the Chesterfield audience. The findings have led to a new approach to the leasing of empty shops with Steeplegate coming to life again as a venue for independent brand

2019 was also the year that jobs at created Markham Vale exceeded those employed there when the site operated as a colliery. 2019 was the year that Chesterfield welcomed Spanish train manufacturer Talgo following the opening of its UK head office at Barrow Hill.

And the town isn’t showing any signs of slowing down in 2020. More jobs are set to be created at Elder Way in 2020 as the basement and ground floor of the former Co-op are transformed into restaurant, bars and a gym by the developer Jomast.

Further buildings are also set to come out of the ground at Northern Gateway and Chesterfield Waterside, while planning approval was granted in late 2019 for the David Lloyd Adrenalin World at Peak Resort in Unstone.

Exciting times are ahead for visitors, residents and businesses.

Destination Chesterfield’s Champions were asked to reflect on 2019; what were their highs and memorable moments, and also asked to look ahead to what they believe 2020 holds in store for them and the town.

Name: Lee Ashley

Job Title: Director

Company: Spire Recruitment Ltd

What has been Chesterfield’s most significant achievement in the last decade?

“I have been impressed with how all the plans for our town have come together and have actually happened, it is great to see so many businesses doing well and playing an active part in making Chesterfield a prosperous area. The amount of construction work in the region is great, all the new additions to our town are brilliant and give people reasons to visit the town centre. The fact so many new companies have chosen Chesterfield as their home is positive as well – the economy in Chesterfield is very stable and long may that continue!”

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“Spire Recruitment is approaching its sixth Birthday and we are looking to expand our team. We hope by growing, it will give us even more opportunities to show local companies what we are all about. 2020 is a year we are really looking forward to and we wish everyone else a Happy New Year.”

Name: Craig Evans

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Company: UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA)

What are the opportunities for school leavers in 2020 to join your sector?

“Apprenticeships are an important route to further education. They allow young people to have a real job with training, earn while they learn, develop their skillsets and understand their full potential. UKATA currently employs five apprentices and three former apprentices and, as a former apprentice myself, I understand first-hand the very real benefits apprenticeships provide both to the business and the individual.”

Has your business pledged to support a charity in 2020? If so, which one and how will it be supporting it?

“UKATA is supporting the British Lung Foundation in 2020, to raise awareness, fund research and support victims of asbestos related diseases. For over 30 years, BLF has been the only charity in Britain solely based on researching lung diseases. They help people of all ages suffering from a variety of conditions including asbestos related cancer – mesothelioma. 10,000 people are newly diagnosed with a lung disease each week in the UK, over 5,000 die each year due to asbestos related diseases.”

Name: Zhanna Troshina

Job Title: Sales and Marketing Executive

Company: RA Information Systems

What excited you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“Chesterfield has experienced a huge expansion of the businesses operating in workspace industry over the last five years and has an abundance of new business premises, modern office, innovation and multi-use accommodation. The industry growth is predicted to continue with flexible workspaces becoming increasingly required. Rapid urbanisation may increase workspace business rates and reduce availability in cities, which will result in Chesterfield being considered as a convenient and ideal location. These positive trends show a prodigious opportunity for the town’s future.”

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“RA Information Systems has substantial experience working with workspace providers such as Business and Incubation Centres and Science Parks. The industry growth represents a good opportunity for us to continue delivering projects comprehensive of services such as IT infrastructure, shared internet connectivity, VoIP telephony, data security, industry specific software and tech support. We look forward to offering technology solutions enabling further growth of this evolving industry.”

Name: Jane Manfredi

Job Title: Proprietor

Company: proMUA & Beauty Training

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“At proMUA & Beauty Training we pride ourselves in being a VTCT approved centre offering World Class Qualifications at Level 2 and 3 in Beauty Therapy and Make-up. We are excited to be offering Beauty and Make-up courses for 14-16-year olds in 2020. These will be a Level 1 and will run one day per week after school. This will be a fantastic opportunity for school children to gain a vocational qualification alongside their school studies.”

What excites you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“Having my business in the centre of Chesterfield, it’s great to see new developments happening. The Northern Gateway scheme is very exciting and, with projects already completed in the town centre, it’s definitely encouraging new businesses to come to Chesterfield creating job opportunities. It’s good news that the planning for the Chesterfield Enterprise Centre has been passed so I’m looking forward to seeing the development of that in 2020.”

Name: Clare Talati
Job Title: Director
Company: Derbyshire Education Business Partnership

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“In 2019, we achieved the matrix Standard and were Highly Commended in the Careers Provider of the Year category at the Careers Excellence Awards. We were also finalists at the East Midlands Chamber Business Awards for Outstanding Growth. We can’t wait to see what 2020 will bring! We intend to grow our programmes to help ensure learners benefit from, and schools meet, the Gatsby benchmarks. We‘ll also be expanding the work we deliver with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities schools.”

What are the opportunities for school leavers in 2020 to join your sector?

“We promote careers in all sectors by working with local employers. This helps inform young people about the opportunities available and the skills employers value and look for. Bringing the world of work to life for learners is at the core of what we deliver. Therefore, we are proud to be part of Made in Chesterfield; raising the awareness of careers – in manufacturing, engineering, science and technology – with 3,000 students reached since the campaign began in 2014.”

Name Julie Richards
Job Title: Principal and Chief Executive Officer
Organisation: Chesterfield College

What excited you most about Chesterfield’s future?

“It is exciting to know that Chesterfield College is playing a part in developing a learning culture within our town and we are helping to build a community of learning to support growth and prosperity.

“We support young people and adults to progress into successful careers by giving them the skills and experiences they need. Ensuring local companies have the ability to develop their workforce effectively and are able to meet the need to develop technology skills is a key part of how we support businesses to grow and thrive.”

Has your business made a New Year’s resolution and, if so, what is it?

“In 2019, we played a part in raising awareness of the need for fair funding for colleges through the national ‘Love our Colleges’ campaign. We want to ensure the Government understands the important role further education plays so we will continue to campaign for fair funding in 2020 and beyond to ensure we can carry on inspiring futures and changing lives for our community.”

Name: Stephen Gordon
Job Title: Executive Director
Company: Banner Jones Solicitors

Has your business made a New Year’s resolution and, if so, what is it?

“Working in a business sector that is notorious for using lots of paper, we’ve decided that it’s time to be different and are striving to become ‘paper-lite’. We’ve already started the process and, in some departments, we are already working without paper. This not only helps us to reduce our carbon footprint but also produces a better, clearer working environment for our staff. We hope to finish the process in early 2020.”

Has your business pledged to support a charity in 2020? If so, which one and how will it be supporting it?

“As a business. we take the wellbeing of our staff very seriously and have recently appointed a dedicated Performance & Wellbeing Coach to provide support when needed. To continue with this focus on mental health we have decided to make ‘Mind’ our charity of the year in 2020 and will plan various fundraising initiatives around this. We’ve always been a big supporter of local charities such as Ashgate Hospicecare and they will also remain close to our hearts in 2020.”

Name: Tim Benson
Job Title: Associate
Company: AECOM

What are the opportunities for school leavers in 2020 to join your sector?

“Investment in infrastructure will continue to increase over the next 12 months, providing many employment opportunities in transportation, power generation and new housing. In addition to the delivery of new infrastructure is the challenge that the climate emergency puts on the way we use existing infrastructure. These demands require new thinking and new solutions, presenting plenty of opportunities for school leavers to get involved straight away through our apprenticeship programme.

Has your business pledged to support a charity in 2020? If so, which one and how will it be supporting it?

“On a local level, we are looking to support various local charities next year as part of our commitment to Social Value. All of our employees are given two days every year to give something back to our local communities. We are currently in discussion with Derbyshire Voluntary Action group, Groundwork Towards Work and Young Enterprise East Midlands, and have established relationships with local organisations including Ashgate Hospicecare and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.”

Name: Mark Ross
Job Title: Managing Director
Organisation: Redbrik Estate Agents

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“We are already excited about the opportunities for real growth in 2020 and for Redbrik to become more of an integral part of homeowner’s lives. We have always prided ourselves on our innovation and the ability to solve our customers’ problems, and we plan on doing this next year through the launch of new services to the property sector. There will be fantastic opportunities for people who love customer service, marketing and property to join our expanding team – watch this space!”

Has your business pledged to support a charity in 2020? If so, which one and how will it be supporting it?

“As a company, we are focused on supporting charitable causes across the communities we serve. We are very proud to be sponsors of the Redbrik Chesterfield Half Marathon, enabling over £100,000 to be raised since 2017 for local charities. The event’s charity partners are Ashgate Hospicecare and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and, this year alone, runners pledged excess of £40,000 for them. In 2020 we would love to get over 2,000 runners on the start line and double the amount we’ve raised so far for the charities.”

Name: Leah Shortt
Job Title: Operations Manager
Company: Learning Unlimited

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“We pride ourselves on being able to support businesses to attract new talent through apprenticeship and training programmes. Our newly appointed product development team is looking forward to supporting employers to create dynamic and cutting-edge education and training programmes to meet the needs of industry, whilst addressing local skills shortages. Our years of experience in education and training puts us in an advantageous position when it comes to working in partnership with business and shaping their future workforce and skills development.

What are the opportunities for school leavers in 2020 to join your sector?

“The range of career routes opened up by the number of apprenticeships available is really exciting. I would encourage any school leaver to look beyond traditional routes into employment and explore the options available to them through apprenticeships. You can achieve university-level qualifications and get vital skills at the same time as earning a wage. Our apprenticeships careers fair on 4 February 2020 at Chesterfield College will showcase the range of opportunities available and give you chance to meet local employers.”

Name: Anna Melton
Job Title: Director
Company: In the Works PR

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“The demand for video content continues to increase and became an integral part of what we offer at In the Works PR 2019. We have invested heavily in editing software as there is certainly going to be lots of opportunities for film where our construction and development clients are concerned and their projects start to take shape in 2020.”

What excites you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“The town leaves 2019 on a high and I am so proud to be part of it. Spades have gone into the ground at major developments this year which is what people have been waiting for. So much happens behind the scenes with commercial developments that often the development can seem like a white elephant because they don’t happen immediately. It’s definitely not the case in Chesterfield. I am hugely optimistic for the town, my business and my team in 2020. It’s definitely going to be a Happy New Year!”

Name: Neil Johnson
Job Title: Managing Director
Company: Derbyshire Building Control Partnership (DBCP)

What excites you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“With a number of large-scale developments starting to come out of the ground in Chesterfield, construction in the town will take a dramatic leap forward in 2020 and this will present opportunities for Chesterfield’s communities. There are many building projects, big and small, scheduled for 2020 and it’s great to see Chesterfield’s ambition and investment continuing at a good pace. This is really exciting for myself and the DBCP team to be involved with – it will certainly keep us busy in the new year.”

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“The increase in construction projects, not only in Chesterfield but across Derbyshire as a whole, places greater demands on our services. So, I see opportunities for growth with recruitment as a major opportunity for DBCP in 2020. We’ve already got a great team, but we’re on the look-out for good building control professionals. There’s a great career opportunity for them with DBCP in 2020”

Name: Peter Swallow
Job Title: Managing Director
Company: Bolsterstone Group Plc

What has been Chesterfield’s most significant achievement in the last decade?

“A highlight for me has to be the creation of Destination Chesterfield of which I am Chair. It has brought together the business, charity and education sectors to really make a difference in driving forward the town. I don’t know of any other town or city that has achieved this, and should all be proud of what has been achieved. By working together, we really have made a difference and established a solid platform for further investment, jobs and opportunity for Chesterfield over the next decade.”

What excites you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“Chesterfield Waterside is really starting to come together. This development will make a significant impact on Chesterfield’s future, providing jobs and homes for local people, and 2020 will be a formative year for the development. Avant Homes began construction of 173 homes in 2019 and they will be released for sale in 2020. This is the year we will also see the office accommodation at the Basin Square neighbourhood come out of the ground, representing the first step in delivering the commercial element of the Waterside vision and we are already in advanced talks with occupiers for the office space. The future is bright for both Chesterfield Waterside and the town itself.”

Name: James Pogson
Job Title: Director
Company: Northern Tea Merchants

Has your business made a New Year’s resolution and, if so, what is it?

“Northern Tea Merchants has been working hard throughout 2019 to reduce the amount of plastic used across the company and in particular tea bags, and that will continue going into 2020. We completed our final Biodegradable Tea Bag Paper test on the 30 October this year and have produced over 500,000 biodegradable bags so far. We will continue working hard and carrying any further research necessary to continue to minimise the amount of plastic we use.”

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“We are excited to continue growing the contract packing side of the business next year whilst continuing to supply our high-quality teas, coffees and cocoa to all of our local Chesterfield customers. Our aim is to keep looking after our loyal, existing customers, by supplying the best tea and coffee at great prices, and welcome more and more new customers with open arms.”

Name: Mark Hill
Job Title: Commercial Property Director (Jomast Developments)
Company: Elder Way

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“In 2020 there is a huge opportunity for us to transform the ground floor and basement of the former Co-op on Elder Way. Right now, the space is empty, but in 2020 I am confident we will see new businesses here. The Premier Inn is open and trading well and now is the time to bring restaurants, cafés and bars together at Elder Way and create a brand new leisure quarter in the heart of Chesterfield.”

What has been Chesterfield’s most significant achievement in the last decade?

“Chesterfield Borough Council has done a great job in supporting inward investment over the last decade. It has been open, welcoming and, most importantly, supportive of investors like us. I know this played a big part in attracting Jomast to invest in the former Co-op building on Elder Way. We’re very glad we took the plunge three years ago to invest in Chesterfield and it’s great to be part of the town’s future with such a landmark development.”

Name: Cllr Tricia Gilby
Job Title: Leader
Company: Chesterfield Borough Council

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“Chesterfield Borough Council is one of the town’s biggest businesses, a £110m business employing 900 staff and delivering 50 services. In 2020, we plan to build dozens of new council homes, set the council and Chesterfield on the right path to carbon neutrality, develop our third innovation centre for new start-up businesses and attract more visitors through our expanding festivals and events programme. We also have the opportunity to boost the fortunes of Staveley by sealing a £25m town deal”.

What excites you the most about Chesterfield’s future?

“Our £2.1bn growth programme. 2020 is a big year for Chesterfield Waterside with new homes, a new office block and a new car park set for construction; also, for Peak with David Lloyd due to build their first Adrenaline World. We hope the Government will confirm the funding for a new £90m road to bypass Brimington and fully commit to HS2, which will bring enormous benefits to Chesterfield. These developments will create thousands of new well-paid jobs for local people”.

Name: Dom Stevens
Job Title: Destination Chesterfield Manager
Organisation: Destination Chesterfield

What are the opportunities for your business in 2020?

“The team at Destination Chesterfield are looking forward to relaunching the Chesterfield Retail Awards as the Chesterfield High Street Awards. The new look awards are the culmination of the feedback from past entrants so we are confident that they will reflect the breadth of businesses and activities, that together bring vitality to our high streets across the borough. We’re very excited by the opportunities the new High Street Awards bring not only to businesses and people that enter them, but also the borough as a whole. We want as many people to be involved as possible.”

Has your business pledged to support a charity in 2020? If so, which one and how will it be supporting it?

“As part of Destination Chesterfield’s 10th year celebrations the team has pledged to undertake at least 10 volunteer days in the Chesterfield community. We recognise that the community, charity and volunteer sectors are such an important part of Chesterfield so it’s great that we will be able to support them throughout 2020.”

Over 180 organisations have become Chesterfield Champions to support the development of our economy, shape our future and showcase all that is good about the town. Joining the scheme is a direct statement of belief from organisations about their commitment to Chesterfield and its successful future.

For information on how you can become a Chesterfield Champion, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

Posted in Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development

Nominations now open for relaunched Chesterfield High Street Awards 2020

19th December 2019

Recognising the changing face of the high street, the annual Chesterfield Retail Awards have a brand-new name and look for 2020 – the Chesterfield High Street Awards – as well as two new categories.

The popular awards are now open to almost every business on Chesterfield’s high street from shops, market traders, events and regeneration projects to estate agents, banks, solicitors and accountants.

The new High Street Business category has been added to this year’s awards’ line up to reflect the diversity of Chesterfield’s high street and is open to all non-retailers except food and drink businesses. While the new Future High Street Award recognises the physical improvements and regeneration of high streets across Chesterfield.

Nominations are now open in the quest to find the best customer-facing high street-based businesses across the borough of Chesterfield.

Organiser of the annual awards, Destination Chesterfield, wants you to say which businesses on the town’s high street are your favourites and why. Nominations are open until midnight on Friday 14 February.

All nominated businesses will be evaluated and a mystery panel of judges will visit businesses shortlisted in 11 of the 15 categories before the winners are announced at a glittering black-tie awards ceremony at Casa Hotel on Wednesday 24 June.

The awards’ relaunch recognises the town’s exceptional businesses, people, events and regeneration projects that are working together to overcome the challenges of a rapidly changing retail environment.

Now in its seventh year, the awards have gone from strength-to-strength; mirroring the town’s economy.

Commenting on the relaunch of the awards for 2020, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “The new 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards recognise the contribution that every business based on high streets in the borough is making in creating jobs, attracting visitors to the town, delivering great customer service and collectively helping drive the success of Chesterfield’s economy.

“I urge everyone to get involved and put forward their favourite businesses. We want to celebrate as many as possible in the awards.”

People can now nominate across 12 categories in the 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards:

• High Street Business of the Year
• Future High Street Award
• Excellence in Customer Service
• Hair and Beauty Business of the Year
• Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year
• Best New Store 2019/2020
• Food and Drink Retailer of the Year
• Home, Gifts & Leisure Retailer of the Year
• Market Trader of the Year
• Independent Retailer of the Year
• National/ Multiple Retailer of the Year
• Best Town Centre Event 2019/2020

The 2020 Chesterfield High Street Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors, including Apprentice Town (led by Chesterfield Borough Council), Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College Group, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), eBusiness Works, JP Fire Safety Solutions, Peak FM and Q2 Creative.

You can nominate online at www.chesterfield.co.uk/highstreetawards until midnight on Friday 14 February 2020.

Information about the various sponsorship packages are available at www.chesterfield.co.uk/highstreetawards or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator, by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207207.

Nominate Now

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Visiting

Heathcotes appoints Group Managing Director

12th December 2019

Chesterfield care provider, Heathcotes Group, has appointed Brendan Kelly as Group Managing Director to provide nationwide strategic leadership.

Brendan was a Regional Director with a national charity prior to joining Heathcotes Group in 2009 as Regional Director for Heathcotes Northern. In his new role, Brendan will now oversee all regions with key responsibilities for the operational aspects of the organisation, including quality and compliance, learning and development and employee relations. Brendan has over 20 years’ experience in Health and Social care, primarily in adult mental health and learning disabilities, as well as a wealth of expertise in delivering, managing and developing services including crisis services, supported living and carer education.

David Harrison, CEO at Heathcotes Group, said: “It is fitting that, having reached his tenth anniversary with the company, Brendan is stepping up to this new role – he has been at the heart of Heathcotes’ success over the past decade. Brendan is someone who understands how the culture of an organisation is vital to the delivery of high quality care and he has led that culture at Heathcotes, making us one of the UK’s fastest-growing specialist care providers. We now employ over 2,200 staff as a trusted partner to over 50 local authorities and Clinical Commissioning Groups. I know that Heathcotes’ continued success will be driven by Brendan’s strategic vision and passion for the work we do.”

Brendan said: “I’m delighted to be appointed to this position, with some exciting times ahead for Heathcotes. The company’s ethos remains the same as it was when I joined ten years ago – a commitment to providing a better quality of life and greater opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in society.”

He added: “We have achieved a great deal in recent years, including the development of a unique model of residential therapy for people with personality disorders, an award-winning apprenticeship programme which has become a benchmark for recruitment in the care sector and the successful introduction of a new independent supported living provision to complement our full-time residential care services. Heathcotes has the potential to achieve much more in the coming years and I’m looking forward to being part of that.”

At the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference at Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa in February, Brendan spoke to delegates about the importance of embedding apprenticeship and skills initiatives into workforce development strategies to facilitate business growth. In March, Heathcotes Group joined the town’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, helping to increase local apprenticeship participation.

Heathcotes Group currently provides 72 specialist residential services supporting adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs, specialist children’s services, and a pioneering service model for people with personality disorders.

Click here to find out more about the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference 2020.

Click here to find out more about becoming an Apprenticeship Ambassador.

Heathcotes Group joined the town’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Network following the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills conference, where Brendan Kelly was a key note speaker.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Made in Chesterfield

55,000 sq ft industrial building now available at Markham Vale

12th December 2019

The brand new 55,000 sq. ft. industrial building at Markham Vale, aptly named MV55, is now available for immediate occupation.

MV55 provides a gross internal warehouse area of 52,500 sq. ft. with a further 2,500 sq. ft. office accommodation at 1st floor level with an option to expand below. With a 10 metre internal height, a 40 metre yard depth, 2 dock level loading doors and 4 level access loading doors, the building provides excellent opportunities for a range of industrial and logistics uses.

Markham Vale is a 200-acre business park with direct access to the M1 motorway via a dedicated junction, J29a. This prime development site offers build-to-suit units from 2,500 up to 300,000 sq. ft. for industrial, warehouse, hotel, office or retail builds.

It has also been announced that HGV repair and maintenance company Transcare 28 Ltd are the latest business to select Markham Vale as a place to meet their growing business needs.

2018 saw 1,600 jobs maintained at the development, along with 164,500 sq. ft. secured of new commercial space for three global businesses; Protec International, Sterigenics and Grangers International.

For a copy of the MV55 brochure or to find out more about relocating to Markham Vale, please click here.

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

Celebrating 2019 as a year of progress for Chesterfield

9th December 2019

My last blog of this year and of the decade! As the end of 2019 moves ever nearer, I think it’s important that we look back at the progress we’ve made as a town this year, as well as looking ahead to the future we’re creating.

Chesterfield has truly had a transformational year and decade. Developments in the area have made huge progress, with some passing major milestones and others being completed, like the successful opening of both the Premier Inn in the former Co-Op building and the new Saltergate Car Park which together have spearheaded the Northern Gateway development.

The plans for Northern Gateway include an enterprise centre for start-up and medium sized businesses on the site of Holywell Cross (Donut) car park.

The former site of the old Queens Park Sports Centre has also been revitalised with the addition of some much needed 3G pitches which are hugely popular with the many grassroots football teams in the area.

As well as construction, it’s been a big year for retail both nationally and in Chesterfield. Although the high street economy as a whole is under threat from the internet it doesn’t have to be the case. I believe that the high street and online can work together and be equally successful in their own space. ALTERIS, the new owners of Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, have proven this.

They are using Facebook to engage with shoppers and drive the redevelopment of the Vicar Lane area. They have asked shoppers what ‘offer’ they want and are responding accordingly and reaping the rewards via the resulting increased footfall. Pop-up shops, free classes, movie screenings and more at Vicar Lane have helped to bring people into the town centre helping Chesterfield’s high street performance remain above the national average.

We can all play a part in Chesterfield’s future retail success– Vote with your feet by shopping local; it really does make a difference.

The launch of the big screen at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre took place on Friday 6th December.

The public / private sector partnerships in Chesterfield are as strong as ever. Its effect is felt in every area of the borough from major developments like Markham Vale and Chesterfield Waterside through to spectacular events like the Christmas lights switch on and regular themed markets.

This collaboration is key to Chesterfield, and its people and businesses continuing to thrive. It also gives us an excellent excuse to celebrate our success with the annual Retail Awards and Food & Drink Awards. More importantly for me, these events recognise young talent – and having met the young chefs, Chesterfield College students and apprentices at this year’s Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, I can confirm that the town has a wealth of it.

I feel confident as we go into 2020 and a new decade that Chesterfield’s future is bright and is in safe hands.

Best wishes for the New Year!

There’s a full programme of entertainment for Christmas in Chesterfield from traditional markets to the annual pantomime and from stand up comedy to musical concerts.

Blog by Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Visiting

Executive Director at Banner Jones says ‘goodbye’ after nearly 30 years

29th November 2019

Chris Sellars, an Executive Director at Chesterfield-based Banner Jones Solicitors has announced that he will leave the firm after almost 30 years to focus on a new venture in property development finance in the New Year.

Chris Sellars joined Banner Jones Solicitors, formerly Jones & Middleton, in 1990 as a trainee; starting what has proved to be a long and successful legal career.

Later forming part of the management team, he helped to drive the firm’s growth strategy and its success in recent years – with the company now employing in excess of 130 people operating out of offices in South Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and London.

Commenting on the news Chris said that whilst it has been a ‘difficult decision’ to leave Banner Jones he was looking forward to embarking on a new chapter of his career.

Simon Wright, Executive Director at Banner Jones, said: “For many years Chris has been a fundamental part of Banner Jones; operating as a highly recognised lawyer with a strong reputation for commercial work and business services.”

“During this time, Banner Jones has also gone from strength to strength, growing from a small ‘high street’ practice to its current status as one of the region’s best-known, award winning law firms – recognised for its no-nonsense, bespoke legal advice and excellent customer service.”

“Further growth is anticipated in the future, with significant plans to invest in recruitment and training of existing staff in the coming months already underway.”

“Whilst Chris will be missed his contribution to the firm to date will continue to be felt for many years; and having seen how passionate he is about his new venture we know this is the right decision for him.”

“We all wish him every success for the future.”

Chris added: “This decision has not been an easy one, but I know that the business is in good hands. Banner Jones has grown immeasurably over recent years and is now in a very strong position with a comprehensive regional presence, a loyal and growing customer base and a dedicated workforce.

“I would like to pass on my thanks to everyone at Banner Jones for their encouragement at this time. I will remain a strong advocate of the work that they do in support of their clients. I am very excited for the next chapter in my professional life.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield

5 creative ways to increase sales this Christmas

27th November 2019

Are you wishing you’d started your festive marketing earlier? Chesterfield’s Christmas lights have already been switched on. And the shopping season is in full swing.

But don’t worry. There’s still time to boost sales ahead of December 25th. And there are plenty of opportunities for all kinds of businesses, whether you’re in retail or professional services.

The town’s marketing campaign, Destination Chesterfield makes it easy for you with these 5 creative ideas.

1. Team up with a local business to promote or sell each other’s products and services

Have you thought about how you could collaborate with other businesses? This can create access to new customers, raise awareness and increase sales.

How about packaging products and services to create a distinctive new product e.g. a hamper of local produce. You could create reciprocal offers for each other’s customers or put in place a referral system. It could be as simple as just talking about each other’s business to every customer who comes in.

If you are looking to build links with businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, Destination Chesterfield runs the Chesterfield Champions Network which is made up of over 180 local businesses working together to promote the area.

Find out more about the Chesterfield Champions.

2. Hold a festive event or support an existing event

Why not hold a festive celebration at your business for your key clients to thank them for their business or alternatively get involved in an event that is happening in the local area, for example in Chesterfield, the Festival of Christmas Trees.

Over 20,000 visitors attend the event and the quirkiest, popular trees will be shared across social media channels gaining brand awareness for participating business. Vouchers and calls to action can be left to reach new customers.

Find out more about this year’s Festival of Christmas Trees

3. Run a competition or take part in one

Running a competition over the Christmas period is a great way to generate leads by showcasing your products and services and driving engagement on social media.

Make sure you have a plan to celebrate the winner and follow up with the people who enter as they are interested in your product or service.

If you don’t want to create your own competition, get involved with campaigns that are already happening. At Destination Chesterfield we run a Christmas Stocking Competition where one lucky person wins an amazing range of prizes from local businesses. We showcase those that supply prizes through our marketing channels, highlighting the distinctive businesses in the town.

Find out more about this year’s Chesterfield Christmas Stocking Competition

4. Create a festive experience for the Instagram generation!

We live in a world, where we showcase our lives through images and videos of the experiences we have, the products we buy and the food and drink we consume.

Create something unique and special that links to the values of your core target markets. Done right you will attract new customers through the door, build brand loyalty and have a band full of ambassadors sharing your business and products across social media.

The traditional ones are sometimes the best, Vicar Lane in Chesterfield has created the opportunity to take a picture with Santa. A great example of a a relevant, special experience for families around the world.

5. Be creative with your Christmas Social Media Plan

Social Media should play an important role for all businesses over the festive period.

A previous blog talked about the important role social media plays in driving footfall to town centres and in driving customers to visit your premises.

At Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in Chesterfield, footfall has increased by 29%. Through social media, the centre is interacting with its customers, asking them what they want and developing new events and facilities based on feedback. It is not surprising that giving customers more of what they want keeps them coming back.

Why not run live video events, showcase your products and give advice to people looking for gifts? Or you could simply start interacting with your customers to find out what they like and use the information to shape your future activity.

Posted in Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield

Tenders invited from local business support specialists

18th November 2019

A procurement opportunity has arisen for a bank of high growth business support specialists to supply 1-2-1 business advice and workshops to businesses and entrepreneurs in the Sheffield City Region (SCR).

Tenderers should have extensive experience and or technical expertise in delivering high growth business support in one of the following disciplines:

Legal, HR and Health and Safety
Finance, IT and Risk Management
Sales and Marketing

ScaleUp 360 brings together a consortium of expert business partners from across the SCR to deliver on a tailored scale-up support programme designed to provide the inspirational advice and support that businesses and entrepreneurs need in order to sustainably scale their ventures and become investment ready.

The consortium comprises East Midlands Chamber; Doncaster Chamber; Barnsley Business Village; and Sheffield Hallam University.

The project is receiving funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

The deadline to apply is 4pm on 6th December 2019. Applications can be made here.

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