Development

Chesterfield property and construction firms announce new recruits, promotions and expansions

Chesterfield businesses are continuing to grow, either with new team members, internal promotions, and even international expansions.

Our latest roundup features three property and construction firms, BSP Consulting, Derbyshire Building Control Partnership, and Redbrik Estate Agents.

Property and Construction firms in the town continue to collaborate in driving forward investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield. Find out more about the work of the Property and Construction Group here.

BSP Consulting announces promotions for key team members

Pedro and Oliver promotion 3

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has promoted two members of its team.

Pedro Navarro has been made an Associate, while Oliver McElroy have been promoted to Principal Engineer.

BSP Director Tony Goddard said: “These promotions are in recognition of their tireless technical work within the civils team and their proven ability encouraging and developing younger staff, managing project finances and going the extra mile to nurture positive client relationships.

“On behalf of everyone at BSP Consulting, I’d like to congratulate Pedro and Oliver and wish them well in their new roles.”

Pedro has been with BSP since June 2017, while Oliver joined in November 2020.

One of the largest independent civil and structural engineering companies in the East Midlands, BSP is an award-winning firm that operates across the UK, offering civil engineering, structural engineering, transport engineering, geotechnical and environmental engineering. BSP works across all sectors including housing, student accommodation, commercial, industrial, health, education, senior living, retail and heritage.

Wealth of industry experience joins DBCP

Leonie King and Catherine Potiphar

The delivery of building control services across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands has been further boosted with two new appointments at DBCP.

Experienced building control surveyor Leonie King has joined DBCP’s team of field-based building control experts, while former site manager Catherine Potiphar has been appointed as a trainee building control surveyor.

DBCP operates across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, working directly with eight local authorities to provide the best, most up-to-date building control service.

Leonie King praised the supportive team at DBCP saying: “Thanks to the experience and knowledge within the team I am learning something new every day. I am passionate about continued professional development particularly in the field of building control. Rules, regulations and techniques are changing all the time and it’s essential we keep abreast of these in order to deliver the best service. Quality and standards are at the heart of everything DBCP which absolutely aligns with my own approach to building control.”

Prior to joining DBCP Catherine was a site manager for 12 years. Her career change is giving Catherine the opportunity to build her skills, knowledge and qualifications through a Building Control Surveyor degree with the University of Wolverhampton which is being funded by DBCP.

She explained: “There are a huge number of transferable skills between my previous career and my new one in building control. It’s great to now be able to combine on site and off site working yet still remain in the industry I love. I am really enjoying the training and development I am undertaking – learning new skills, keeps the brain active!”

Delighted to welcome Leonie and Catherine to the team, David Pratt, DBCP Building Control Manager, commented: “It’s hugely important to us that our team of building control surveyors are not only qualified but also experienced; this enables us to provide the best service to across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands and why demand for our services is increasing. We want to expand the team further but with the right people. The opportunity to develop a career both in building control and DBCP right now are very exciting.”

International estate agency services launched by Redbrik

Redbrik Estate Agents has announced the expansion of its sales service under a new brand –  Redbrik International.

The firm launched its international department with two fantastic developments, Ombria  Resort and Wyndham Grand, located in Portugal’s Algarve region.

Managing director, Mark Ross, said: “During the past ten years, Redbrik has grown from a single sales office to a multi-branch agency covering sales, lettings, land and new homes, and now international sales!

“We pride ourselves on the award-winning service our team provides, and I know they can’t wait to begin working with investors and homeowners from across the country on this pair of superb developments.

“The launch of Redbrik International, managed by our New Homes Team, is an exciting step for the business, and we look forward to bringing exclusive new investment opportunities to our clients.”

BSP Consulting, DBCP and Redbrik support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Superior Wellness listed among UK’s fastest-growing firms for 2nd year running

Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness ranks 30th on the FEBE For Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs Growth 100: an annual list that reveals the UK’s fastest-growing privately owned businesses.

Businesses must have sales between £3m and £200m, trading for at least three years and have turned an operating profit in the latest financial year to make it into the top 100.

The Growth 100 celebrates British business at its best – highlighting founders that are driving their companies to deliver significant sales, revenue and profit.

Superior Wellness leads the market as the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer, creating premium, high quality products focused on improving your health and well-being. This year marks the 2nd in succession that the company has been listed on the FEBE Growth 100 list.

The firm continues to innovate and has recently launched new brands Chill Tubs and Hekla Saunas, which are proving a popular addition to its portfolio of products.

The company’s Chill Tubs brand was recently showcased on ITV’s This Morning, with presenter Matthew Wright taking a plunge in the water, which was cooled to 8.3 degrees.

To be on the list businesses must be UK registered, independent and unquoted, meeting the following criteria:

  • Sales between £3m and £200m
  • Trading for at least three years
  • An operating profit in the latest financial year
  • Founder(s) must still be involved

The Growth 100 annual list shines a light on the finest and fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the country, where the founder or founders are still involved. The Growth 100 is run by FEBE, the club built for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director, said: “We were so proud when we heard the news that Superior Wellness had made it onto Growth 100 list. We ranked 30th in Britain for the fastest-growing companies privately owned businesses.

“This is such an incredible achievement for us as a company and a real accolade to the team and their hard work.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all the Superior Wellness team and our partner network for making this possible.”

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

superior wellness exterior

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Derbyshire tourism attractions win prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence

Five tourism businesses from across the Peak District and Derbyshire are celebrating success after winning coveted accolades – including two prestigious Gold awards – at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

The finalists competed against hundreds of tourism businesses from across the country to reach the awards ceremony which was hosted by TV presenter Alex Polizzi at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter on Wednesday 7 June.

Top spots were taken by the Blind Bull at Little Hucklow near Buxton, who won the Gold Pub of the Year award, and Peak District-based outdoor activity provider Pure Outdoor, winners of the Gold Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award.

National recognition was also received by Great British Car Journey in Ambergate, who won the Bronze New Tourism Business of the Year award; Wildhive Callow Hall near Ashbourne, winners of the Bronze Small Hotel of the Year award; and myGuidedWalks, who won the Bronze Experience of the Year award for their Peak District Walking Experience.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence champion quality, innovation and best practice across the tourism industry, recognising businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.

This year’s awards aligned with 16 local competitions from across England, including the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence represent the highest accolades in English tourism and so we’re incredibly proud that the Peak District and Derbyshire has received national recognition with not one but five prestigious awards.

“These awards are a timely reminder of the value and quality of our world-class tourism offer, and of the commitment and dedication of the talented businesses and individuals who work so hard to provide visitors with experiences to remember.

“Winning at an aligned local competition is the only way to qualify for these national awards, so we encourage businesses to look out for applications opening for the 2024 awards in the coming weeks.”

Raab Dykstra-McCarthy, Owner and Manager of The Blind Bull, Gold winners in the Pub of the Year category, said: “We are over the moon to win Gold in the Pub of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. For a small, independently owned pub in a tiny village in the heart of the glorious Peak District, to be recognised nationally, after being open for less than three years, is just such an incredible feeling and rather unbelievable. Full credit goes to our wonderful team who really are the heart and soul of The Blind Bull. Finally, a huge thank you to our customers for continuing to support us!”

Guy Wilson, Founder of Pure Outdoor, Gold winners in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism category, said: “We’re so pleased to receive the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Gold Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. We’re passionate about being a better business and look to continue developing in this area over the coming years. I’d like to thank all staff involved in growing our business not just for profit, but for people and the planet too.”

Richard Usher, Founder and CEO of Great British Car Journey, Bronze winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category, said: “What a phenomenal journey the last two years have been for Great British Car Journey. To be recognised in the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence has just blown us all away. We knew we had something special when we opened the museum in May 2021, but to have it confirmed is wonderful.
“It’s onwards and upwards for Great British Car Journey. We have many exciting plans in the pipeline which will ensure we continue to stand out in both the classic car and visitor attraction market.”

Paul Smith, Founder and Guide at myGuidedWalks, Bronze winners in the Experience of the Year category, said: “MyGuidedWalks are thrilled to have won Bronze for Experience of the Year at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. This is a huge honour for us, and we are so grateful to our customers, family, friends and other Peak District and Derbyshire businesses for their support. A big special thanks also to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire team for their support and training over the last 5 years.
“At myGuidedWalks, we are committed to providing unforgettable walking and nature based experiences in the Peak District National Park for our guests, and we will continue to work hard to make www.myGuidedWalks.co.uk the best it can be.”

Ed Burrows D.L., Co-Founder of Wildhive Callow Hall, Bronze winners in the Small Hotel of the Year category, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received an award for Wildhive Callow Hall at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The team are so proud to receive such recognition from the panel of judges as one of the top hotels in the country. Everyone involved with Wildhive has worked so hard to open the hotel and ensure amazing experiences for our guests and now as we approach our two year anniversary this September, we have lots to celebrate!”

Great British Car Journey - Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

Great British Car Journey – Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023. Image by VisitBritain, Daniela Luquini

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New emergency department now open at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s new Emergency Department has now opened.

The hospital’s new development includes a state-of-the-art approach to patient flow, highly specialised equipment, ultra-modern technology and a real grounding in the community through the locally sourced artwork and wayfinding.

However, the message from the hospital to the public remains that people should only visit the department if they truly need to.

Dr. Katherine Lendrum, Clinical Lead for the UECD and ED Consultant, commented: “The new Emergency Department is an absolutely amazing facility which will provide our local population with Emergency Care but only when they really need it!

“We genuinely hope we don’t need to see people but if someone needs us, we will be there and do our absolute best to give high quality care in a timely manner.

“Emergency departments are open 24/7 365 days a year; they are staffed by a large team of nurses and clinicians (doctors and allied health professionals) who have expertise in immediately life or limb threatening emergencies.”

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “This is a truly fantastic facility for the hospital and the communities we serve. With clinical leadership, engagement at all levels and years of planning, I’m very proud of the skills, experience and hard work that have gone into shaping our new Emergency Department.

“We are on time in opening the facility and have delivered on budget, despite building work starting during Covid. It is testament to a great team who have worked tirelessly to deliver this work. Thank you to everybody involved.”

Dr Anthony Kenny, Programme Director for the Emergency Department development, said: “The new department has the ability to live monitor patients, it has a dedicated children and young people’s area and a specialist zone for neurodiverse patients or those experiencing a mental health crisis, all of which mean we are providing a truly world-class facility for the region.

“The area above the department is one of the proudest ‘added extra’ elements; we have a state-of-the-art simulation suite and facilities which will support training for ED colleagues to provide the best possible care and we have also included modern changing and break-out rooms.”

Dr Lendrum concluded: “Sometimes (in up to 70% of attendances) people choose to come to an emergency department with less urgent problems – perhaps because they don’t know where to go or because they perceive they will be seen quicker; get all the tests they need done or be treated faster.

“Problems that have lasted many days, weeks or months, that you would like a second opinion on or are already being managed by another team often do not fit into an emergency category.

“If you feel well enough to have your tea before coming to an ED think again – could my problem be managed by someone else better tomorrow?! It is everyone’s responsibility to use health care services wisely.”

Alternative sources of help for less urgent problem, particularly out of hours include NHS111, local pharmacies and urgent treatment centres.

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.

chesterfield royal new Emergency department

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Chesterfield property firms addressing sector skills gaps

Attracting new talent into the property and construction sector is more important than ever. Industry experts have stated that an extra 225,000 workers are required by 2027, equating to roughly 3,500 per year in the East Midlands Region.

In Chesterfield, businesses in the sector continue to work collaboratively in improving access to careers in construction for the future generation.

This was recently identified at a masterclass discussion, aimed at sharing ideas and best practice to support both young people and businesses in securing a future pipeline of talent.

The event, which comprised several leaders from across the property and construction sector in Chesterfield, helped to update the sector on the latest career initiatives taking place, along with signposting firms to various support options open to them.

What is the sector doing to improve the skills pipeline in Chesterfield?

Careers Made in Chesterfield - improving access to careers in construction

A key initiative designed to improve access to careers in construction is  Careers Made in Chesterfield, which saw several businesses participating in face-to-face workshops at Parkside Community School.

Further bolstering the skills needed within the sector in Chesterfield, the Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor will welcome learners from autumn. Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the skills hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity, and work experience on a live construction site.

The Made in Chesterfield Festival is also returning in November 2023, which sees students visiting business premises, to be inspired by the breadth of career options available.

Speaking at the Masterclass, Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group commented: “We have previously done a lot of work for school-age students, such as the Careers Made in Chesterfield project and the Construction Skills Hub in Staveley, but we also want to focus on the transition from school or further education into the workplace.

“As a forum, we are continuing to try and identify any barriers to reduce drop-out rates in the sector. Ultimately, firms want to connect with students who are interested in the industry and turn them into employees and future business leaders.”

“I believe this is extremely important for the sector because without a reliable pipeline of skilled people, we are not going to be able to grow and projects we want to see in the future.

“We all live, work, and play in things that have been built, so our sector does touch all aspects of society. If we are to keep improving, developing, and hitting sustainability objectives, we need to ensure we have the people to be able to do it.”

Skills support for property and construction businesses

current apprentices in Chesterfield

During the session, Andrew Rodney, Senior Customer Engagement Manager at CITB updated on some of the initiatives on offer to support employers in bolstering their workforce.

Andrew said: “CITB exists to support employers. We know that businesses can find it difficult to know where to look in accessing the right training for their staff and how to access grants to support training.

“Our advisors are here to support businesses in a physical sense, by listening to their training needs and signposting to the most appropriate training organisation. We have recently created a new team to help employers recruit and mentor apprentices.

“There are so many different types of grants available for the property and construction sector. The easiest way to find out more about these would be to access our website. We encourage anyone who is not sure to give us a call and speak to an advisor, so we can point you in the right direction. We want to help in removing barriers for businesses and ensuring that they can access skilled young people to help them grow.”

Help and advice for young people looking to get into property and construction

Property Made Visit - access to careers in construction

Focusing on supporting young people during the discussion, Jenny Kitchen, Founder of Building Rapport explained the work taking place as part of the Regeneration Brainery project, which aims to improve access to careers in construction for young people.

Jenny explained: “Regeneration Brainery exists to fill the skills and diversity gap by engaging with young learners and those seeking employment in the built environment. We bring students and education providers together with businesses that are recruiting apprentices, and we help young people to find meaningful work experience.

“We need one in five school leavers to join our sector to address the current skills crisis. So businesses need to have their own resources to attract and retain young people. Offering high-quality work experience to raise awareness of the variety of roles is a collective approach our sector needs to take seriously.

“During a week with us, students spend time in businesses, on-site, and with a whole variety of professionals, giving them a snippet of working life in our sector.

“We help get young people job ready by nurturing and mentoring them, to find a career, and crucially stay in a career long-term.

“We’ve got the students who are willing to learn, and see a place for themselves in our sector, but they (or their schools) don’t know how to get there aside from a traditional university route, which isn’t the right choice for everyone.

“It is vital to give them the support they need in the first year of starting a new career, to improve retention of skilled young people in the property and construction sector, and to “grow our own.”

“If we don’t address our recruitment processes, we are at risk of excluding many talented, underprivileged, or neurodiverse young people. Who don’t have the confidence or support network to encourage or help them with their first job application.

“We’re also here to remind those who are less academic that they have choices, they can still follow a degree path via an Apprenticeship route that will lead them to reach their potential.

Chesterfield’s collaborative approach to improve access to careers in construction

Chesterfield’s Property and Construction sector continues to bring together business leaders of the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability, and skills within Chesterfield.

The group works together across four key themes, specifically the skills agenda, business support, promoting investment in Chesterfield, and sustainability and wellbeing.

The recent masterclass discussion was yet another example of how the sector continues to collaborate.

Sue Woollett, Social Value Manager at Stepnell Ltd. commented: “One of the things that I love about Chesterfield is that there is such a collaborative approach to everything, especially in the property and construction sector.

“The regular activity that takes place in the sector helps to introduce different businesses to each other and helps our sector work alongside the public sector to help achieve growth, jobs, and development in the local economy.

“It’s no secret that there is a skills gap in our sector, and there is an aging workforce. I feel that there is a misunderstanding about the variety of jobs that are available in construction. We all want to get across that there is a job for everyone in this sector, and we need to help people to understand how many opportunities there are.”

If your business is interested in getting involved with the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, email: property@chesterfield.co.uk

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Innovative careers scheme inspires Chesterfield’s next generation and aims to reduce skills gaps

A pioneering scheme, which is linking schools with leading property and construction firms in Chesterfield, is inspiring young people to pursue careers in the construction sector.

‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ has resulted in fourteen quality placements being offered for talented young people to learn about the property and construction sector. This follows several businesses from the town’s property and construction sector participating in workshops at Parkside Community School, showcasing the range of rewarding careers available.

Providing face-to-face interaction with students proved very successful, with 40% of students who completed the programme expressing a high interest in working in the construction sector in the future – rising from just 20% when the scheme was originally conceived in September 2022.

The initiative was launched following a report by CITB, which outlines how an extra 225,000 workers are required in the UK’s property and construction sector by 2027, equating to roughly 3,500 per year in the East Midlands Region alone.

During the ‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ programme, business leaders carried out an initial speed networking workshop with pupils, answering their questions and helping to open their eyes into the many different exciting roles associated with property and construction.

In the second workshop sessions, students were tasked with designing a new building within the Northern Gateway area of Chesterfield. Working in groups of five to design a community venue, each group was allocated an employer mentor from the property and construction sector to help develop the design.

The project is enabling students to gain vital work experience, but also showcases the breadth of skills needed to achieve Chesterfield’s ambitious growth and regeneration plans.

The innovative pilot has seen 20 professionals from 11 local businesses helping to deliver the programme to 110 Year 10 students at the school.

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group, and member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group added: “One of the main issues being faced by the property and construction sector is that its workforce is getting older.

“It is vital to begin bringing in the next generation, and Careers Made in Chesterfield is one of many initiatives which will help to secure the future pipeline of talent that our businesses rely on.

“It is a very exciting time to be getting into the sector, and with schemes such as this, our young people will one day contribute towards delivering the physical, social, and green infrastructure that Chesterfield needs to continue its sustainable growth.”

Andrew Byrne, The Devonshire Group

Andrew Byrne, The Devonshire Group

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth commented: “Working with local businesses to deliver the Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot demonstrates how direct engagement with students can spark their interest in different career paths.

“Helping young people learn more about the skills they need and the options available to them is key to ensuring that we can provide secure high quality jobs in Chesterfield and that they can plan for a great future in our borough.”

Ben Riggott, Head Teacher at Parkside School said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot represented a step change in creating sustained connections between our Year 10 students and some great local companies.

“This model is fantastic for several reasons.  Perhaps most importantly, students build relationships with employers across the programme, which in turn enhances their confidence and the likely outcomes of work experience.

One of the firms to be welcoming a student on placement in July is Oasis Studio, which provides virtual reality and augmented reality services to property and construction businesses.

Tony Buck, Associate Director at Oasis Studio commented: “We jumped at the chance to get involved in the pilot scheme. The construction industry is continually evolving, adopting new technologies and construction methods.

“To stay competitive, I believe it’s crucial we have a skilled workforce that can embrace these advancements. I really enjoyed demonstrating the range of opportunities in the sector today.  We utilised our VR headsets during the workshop to offer the students a virtual site visit and help them understand the brief. I was genuinely impressed by the student’s level of maturity and engagement throughout the workshops, and their ideation of concepts was fantastic.”

Further addressing the increasing construction skills shortage within Chesterfield, the Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor will welcome learners from autumn this year.

Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the skills hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity and work experience on a live construction site.

Initially the Skills Hub will provide training in site and bench joinery, brickwork, ground works and electrical installation but in time the offer will expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. It will be open to school leavers and other residents seeking to train or retrain.

The Hub will provide training, careers insights, and work experience for more than 5,000 learners over 10 years.

Businesses and schools that wish to register their interest in the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative, are urged to contact Emily Williams, Skills Delivery Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council on 01246 959717.

The Destination Chesterfield Partnership has received £180,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It follows a successful funding bid by Chesterfield Borough Council, to secure £2.69 million worth of funding for local projects.

Careers Made in Chesterfield header image

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Chesterfield’s DCJ Group named as 6th best insurance broker in UKGI

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management has been recognised as a top performer and awarded an Insurance DataLab Broker Gold Award for 2023 based on their financial performance.

The Insurance DataLab 2023 Broker Performance Report rated 136 of the largest brokers in UKGI across three key metrics – profitability, growth, and productivity, and DCJ achieved a Broker Rating of 67% for its financial performance.

DCJ was one of eight firms to receive the award for their performance over the last 12 months. The research found that overall performance has remained steady over the last three years, with the market average Broker Rating standing at 52.2% for 2023 – a 0.4 percentage point improvement on the previous year.

David Hadkiss, Director at DCJ Group, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded as one of the UK’s top performing brokers.

“The hard work and dedication of our team is the main factor leading towards our recent growth. A huge thank you to all of our clients for their continuing support, which has allowed us to reach this position.”

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management was established in Chesterfield in 1991. From fairly humble beginnings, the company has grown to its current position, controlling circa £12 million in premium income and employing 30 staff. Most of this growth has been organic, although the insurance broker has also acquired businesses along the way.

The firm specialises in providing professional advice to its clients in respect of all types of general insurance products to protect the assets and liabilities of businesses and individuals. It is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and strives to act professionally at all times, in excess of the benchmarks laid down by the FCA.

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

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Chesterfield firms named amongst Derbyshire’s 200 biggest businesses

Several Chesterfield businesses have been included in the list of Derbyshire’s largest 200 organisations, which has been compiled by the University of Derby’s business school.

Global Brands, Robinson PLC and Minorfern Ltd were amongst the Chesterfield Champions listed in the latest annual report.

To qualify for the list, companies must have:

  • been active during 1 July 2020 to 20 June 2021
  • had their registered office in Derby or Derbyshire
  • reported independent accounts to Companies House for the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021

The top three largest sectors across the whole list were manufacturing (30.5%); wholesale and retail trade, including motor vehicles (20.5%); and financial services and insurance (10.5%).

Speaking at the launch event of the Top 200 Businesses report, University of Derby Vice-Chancellor Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL said: “Although covering a period when businesses were impacted by the pandemic, this report confirms that our city and county remain home to some of the world’s most successful businesses.

“The jobs they provide for thousands of people, including our graduates, are vital to supporting our communities and the prosperity of our region. The University will continue to work closely with employers and businesses across a range of sectors to help meet the current and future needs of our region so that we can maintain this position of collective strength.”

The University’s Top 200 Businesses in Derby and Derbyshire report was compiled by a team of researchers from the University’s Business School using publicly available information. It was launched at an event at the University’s One Friar Gate Square, home to its College of Business, Law and Social Sciences, and close to the location of its new Business School, currently under construction.

The Chesterfield firms named in the list are: 

  • Avant Homes Group – ranked 10th
  • GI Recruitment – ranked 16th
  • Avanti Gas – ranked 31st
  • Vesuvius – ranked 44th
  • BI Group – ranked 65th
  • Eyre and Elliston Holdings – ranked 66th
  • Xtratherm UK – ranked 67th
  • Global Brands (GBL) Holdings – ranked 68th
  • Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services Ltd – ranked 74th
  • Xbite – ranked 87th
  • Hillcare Holdings – ranked 89th
  • Proact IT UK – ranked 90th
  • Carlin Group – ranked 91st
  • Caldic UK – ranked 101st
  • Tennant Metallurgical Group Holdings Limited – ranked 113th
  • Robinson plc – ranked 119th
  • Evolution Funding Group – ranked 121st
  • Designer Contracts – ranked 124th
  • Beachcroft Holdings – ranked 125th
  • United Rental Group – ranked 128th
  • PR Marriott Drilling Ltd – ranked 129th
  • BeaconMedaes – ranked 130th
  • Capital Refractories – ranked 131st
  • James Convenience Retail – ranked 134th
  • Bridgstock – ranked 136th
  • Moorhen Holdings – ranked 137th
  • Minorfern Ltd – ranked 147th
  • Utopia Holdings – ranked 148th
  • Magnavale – ranked 152nd
  • UK Egg Centre – ranked 158th
  • Versus Arthritis – ranked 162nd
  • Lubricant Holdings – ranked 169th
  • Coster Aerosols – ranked 171st
  • Triangle of Chesterfield – ranked 177th
  • Aperam Stainless Services & Solutions UK Ltd – ranked 178th
  • Cathelco – ranked 183rd
  • Rykneld Homes – ranked 190th
  • Dormer Pramet – ranked 192nd
  • Roe Developments (UK) – ranked 194th

The full list can be found at: https://www.derby.ac.uk/business-services/top-200-derbyshire-businesses/2023/business-listing/

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

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

 

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Accolades for Shorts Accountants and Banner Jones Solicitors at South Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards

Teams at two Chesterfield firms are celebrating successes, after wins at the Insider South Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards last week.

It has been a great year for the Corporate Finance team at Shorts, and the firm is delighted to have won four awards at this year’s ceremony. The winners were announced at a black-tie event hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay, at Sheffield City Hall on Thursday 8 June.

The wins included:

  • Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year
  • Deal of the Year (£10m+) Management buyout of Wincro Metal Industries
  • Innovation Investment Award: Investment in Sitehop by Mercia
  • Dealmaker of the Year: Andy Ryder

Following the successes of the evening, Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts (who also went on to win Dealmaker of the Year), said: “It is the expertise and committment of the Shorts team which we see reflected in these successes.

“Last year was a record-breaking year for the Shorts Corporate Finance team, with some fantastic transactions completed, and we are beyond proud to see that hard work being recognised. We have a great team and with an exciting pipeline of opportunities, we are looking forward to another successful year.”

Dealmakers Awards 2023 873

Elsewhere, leading regional law firm Banner Jones has won the National/International Deal of the Year award alongside Translink Corporate Finance at this year’s prestigious event.

The announcement sees the firm’s Business Legal Services department receive recognition for the role it played in advising the shareholders of Chesterfield-based The Corrugated Case Company (CCC), in a major acquisition deal with the UK arm of the global packaging specialist, Tri-Wall, which completed last summer.

Andrew Fielder from Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department – supported by colleagues Tim Barley, Katie Ash and Sara Patel – advised the sellers on all aspects of the share disposal, and of the separate sale of the businesses trading premises.

Commenting on the award win Andrew Fielder from Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received recognition for the work carried out on the CCC acquisition deal, alongside the team at Translink Corporate Finance.

“The South Yorkshire Dealmaker Awards provide a unique opportunity for the local deals community to get together to celebrate our successes, and we are thrilled to have taken home the grand prize in the National/International Deal of the Year category.”

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

Dealmakers awards banner jones

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

Peak Resort exceeds nature recovery targets

The 300-acre PEAK Resort site has exceeded the nature recovery targets in support of its revised, post-pandemic first phase.

On-going surveys of the Birchall Estate show a spectacular recovery in biodiversity in areas outside of the principle permitted development areas. A mixture of passive re-wilding, and limited land management in the principle permitted development areas have achieved this. The increased biodiversity balance across the whole estate is already well beyond what will be the mandatory target of a 10% Net Gain set by the Environment Act 2021.

Once PEAK Resort is fully implemented, approximately 70% of the estate ownership will be given over to a nature reserve, equivalent to an area of 1.4 times the size of the National Arboretum.

The first phase of PEAK is proposed on 10% of the Estate and will generate 1,000 jobs. Further details of this development will be published this summer.

Achieving a balance between nature’s needs and people’s wants is at the core of the PEAK’s Regenerative Enterprise manifesto.

From the Middle Ages areas within the Birchall Estate were continuously exploited for quarrying, coal mining, opencast, timber extraction, munitions testing, and building demolition landfill.

The current landowners acquired an interest in the Birchall Estate in the late 1980’s over 35 years ago when large areas of the Estate were ecologically barren following extensive open-cast activity.

They saw an opportunity to regenerate the Estate as a place where both people and nature could flourish.

Over two miles of new public access greenways and woodland trails, adopted as Public Rights of Way, have already been created on the Estate. These include a spectacular river walk and areas of native mixed species hedgerows full of bird song.

The landowners have entered into a joint venture with Milligan, a mixed-use real estate and destination developer for the first phase regeneration programme.

John Milligan, Executive Chairman of Milligan said “It was fundamental to our involvement that the land itself supported a continuity of purpose. The Gateway at PEAK will be a world-class tourist and leisure destination, achieving a balance between the interests of nature and people are critical to its success. Birchall have got this off to a cracking start with the achievements in biodiversity gains to date”.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council said “It is fantastic to see formerly open cast land being regenerated for a purpose which balances both human and natural interests. The council is fully behind this regenerative enterprise which is entirely consistent with our climate change and economic growth ambitions.”

The Landowner, Birchall Properties said, “Good news to be getting underway again in the wake of so many challenges – the banking crisis, BREXIT, and COVID have not been able to distract us from our mission – onwards!”

If you would like to know more or visit the Estate at the end of the current ecology season please visit https://www.peakliaison.co.uk/

Peak is one of over £2 billion of regeneration projects in progress or planned in Chesterfield find out more about some of the developments here and discover why Chesterfield is the perfect place to invest.

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

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

Mortgage 1st acquires Peak Mortgages

Chesterfield mortgage brokerage, Mortgage 1st recently announced the acquisition of Peak Mortgages & Protection.

Formed in 2008 the family-run company has grown exponentially.  During that time they placed over 10,000 mortgages in arranging £1.67 billion of lending.  They have also recently been recognised for their achievements winning a national industry award.

The move will see Mortgage 1st increase to over 70 staff and follows the launch of their insurance brand, Protection 1st.

Mortgage 1st Directors Jon Stones said: “The opportunity to bring Peak into Mortgage 1st is a unique and ideal scenario.  One that will see us continue to grow but also maintain our culture.  We’re excited to welcome everyone from Peak into our team.  We can’t wait to see how both brands continue to grow alongside one another.”

Rhys Schofield founder of Peak Mortgages & Protection says: “We are extremely proud and privileged to be a part of Mortgage 1st.  Working alongside like-minded people who share the same drive and dedication was an absolute must for me. Jon and Lisa have built a wonderful brand.  Visiting their head office I knew this was the perfect home for Peak.”

Mortgage 1st supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Mortgage First team receive an award

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, HomeTagged in , , , ,

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