Development

Full refurbishment completed at The HQ in Chesterfield

Leading property and asset management firm, FI Real Estate Management (FIREM), has completed all phases of a full refurbishment of The HQ, Rowland Hill House to reveal 44,000 sq ft of modern open-plan office space.

The £1.2m project has seen FIREM upgrade the former Royal Mail building to Grade A office space specifically designed for flexible working, offering bespoke and turnkey packages tailored to meet specific business needs and requirements.

After the completion of the first phase in April 2022, FIREM began a second phase of works to the ground and third floors, completing in February 2023.

The rise of hybrid working has created a shift in office requirements for businesses across the region, with The HQ pioneering a new approach in the Chesterfield business community.

Award-winning commercial vehicle hire company, Northgate Vehicle Hire, has recently signed a lease of 8,000 sq ft, alongside other tenants, Derbyshire Police and Reed in Partnership, demonstrating the diversified offering of the office facilities to suit a range of businesses.

Tim Knowles, founder and Managing Director of FIREM commented: “The HQ’s office concept has never been seen before in Chesterfield and reflects the work we are doing to progress Chesterfield’s business offering in line with nearby cities.

“It is arguably the most competitive office product in the Chesterfield market, offering businesses a bespoke turnkey service from day one that can be modified to suit their changing needs and requirements.”

Modern, well connected office spaces are now available across Chesterfield. Regardless of your workspace requirements, from co-working and hotdesking to spacious offices for a large team, our aim is to make you as productive as possible.

To find out more about the wide range of office spaces on offer across the town, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

FI Real Estate Management supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

The HQ reception

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Chesterfield’s Grade A office spaces contribute to town’s ongoing success

Grade A office spaces in Chesterfield are proving a major success, bringing new investment and jobs to the local area. Recently-completed developments are attracting businesses to Chesterfield, as well as providing modern spaces for existing firms in the town to grow.

Examples of this can be seen at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, One Waterside Place and The HQ. Did you know that office spaces at the Northern Gateway Enterprise centre are already 75% let?

To find out about their success, we’re taking a look at some of the prime locations you can choose from when investing in Chesterfield.

If you want to know more about how Chesterfield’s office spaces can help your business grow, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

One Waterside Place

Grade A One Waterside Place office

For large, modern, and well located office space, look no further than One Waterside Place.

Bolsterstone Group recently delivered the new 36,000 sq ft Grade A office space at Chesterfield Waterside in the Basin Square neighbourhood. This development provides large spaces (up to 15,000 sq ft) which are critical to support inward investment into Chesterfield.

Furthermore, companies based in the centre have the advantage of being a very short walk away from Chesterfield Rail Station.

Tenants including BHP Accountants and Varley have already made One Waterside Place their new home.

Speaking on why Chesterfield is such an attractive proposition for any relocating business, Tom Swallow, Development Manager at Bolsterstone Group said: “Chesterfield has so much going for it. We are centrally located, close to big cities and the Peak District and have amazing transport links.

“Chesterfield station provides a link to London in under two hours. Manchester or Leeds can also be easily reached in just over an hour.

“As well as affordable house prices, Chesterfield also has a great mix of independent and boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.

“The town’s location together with its offer is ideal for companies who are looking at providing a good quality of life for their employees.”

Tom added that he believes the provision of high-quality office space in the town is hugely important. He commented: “It is needed to both help existing companies grow and also support direct inward investment from companies looking to relocate into the area.

“Quality offices are also more sustainable in economic, social and environmental ways. This can benefit companies looking to improve their ESG agenda as well as helping Chesterfield achieve its net zero ambitions.”

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre Grade A office space

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has exceeded initial expectations since its opening in 2022.

Several organisations are now operating from the building, with more than 75% of the space available already taken.

So, what do businesses love about it? Of course, it’s central location – in the heart of Chesterfield town centre. But tenants also benefit from ‘easy in and out’ letting terms at the Grade A development.

Tenants also benefit from access to a range of other council services. This includes business support and corporate rates for leisure passes, parking permits and conferencing facilities.

With its town centre location, the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is easily accessible by car, train, bus and cycle users. It’s situated opposite the new Saltergate multi-storey car park and close to all major bus routes and Chesterfield Train station.

Edwards Employment Solutions moved into the building in 2022. Managing Director Izabella Edwards commented: “Our move to the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has been an absolute game changer for us.

“From a business point of view, we are benefitting from the excellent location. People looking for a new job are able to pop in and see us when they are in town. We even have our clients from local businesses coming in to see us!

“We now have such modern and functional facilities to host people – it’s really working well for us.  In addition to this, my team and I are really enjoying being back in Chesterfield Town Centre and making the most out of shopping and eating out at lunchtime.  I would encourage any business thinking about making the move to go for it, we’ve certainly not looked back.”

The HQ

Grade A office space at The HQ, Chesterfield

Specifically designed as a solution to modern ways of working, The HQ recently underwent a £1.225m refurbishment to upgrade the existing building to Grade A office facilities.

With 44,000 sq ft. of flexible and conventional office space, The HQ has been popular with several local and regional businesses. Firms working across various industries operate from the development, including ChargedEv and Derbyshire Police.

Businesses benefit from not only the high-quality space but also the community and support network within the building. This gives them a forum to connect and collaborate with businesses they otherwise may not meet.

Dominic Knowles, Head of Offices at FI Real Estate Management, which operates The HQ commented: “The market town boasts an active and vibrant business community that is keen to forge partnerships, giving local and regional firms the opportunity to expand their networks.

“Chesterfield is also ideally located near the motorway network with great access to the M1; the neighbouring cities of Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham can all be reached within an hour.

“Nestled on the edge of the Peak District and surrounded by a selection of high-quality bars, restaurants and shops, Chesterfield is the perfect location for those looking to create the desired work-life balance.”

Dominic explained why the provision of Grade A office space is key to the town’s future. He added: “Providing quality office space ensures the town keeps pace with nearby cities.

“Investing in office space helps attract more businesses, which then stimulates further investment in the area, boosting employment and enriching the working lives of the local community. It also helps employers incentivise staff to come back into the office.”

Chesterfield Property and Construction Group

Bolsterstone Group, FI Real Estate Management, Whittam Cox Architects and Chesterfield Borough Council are all represtented in the town’s Property and Construction Group, which aims to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield.

Find out more about the group at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/propertygroup/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

North East Derbyshire businesses to benefit from Shop Front Enhancement Scheme

North East Derbyshire businesses are set to benefit from the launch of a new Shopfront Enhancement Scheme, with grants up to £10,000 up-for-grabs.

North East Derbyshire District Council is inviting businesses and landlords with street-facing commercial premises in the district to apply for grants to help improve the visual appearance of their properties.

This means businesses in towns such as Clay Cross, Dronfield and Eckington will be eligible for the support.

Funded through the North East Derbyshire UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme, the Shopfront Enhancement Scheme will not only enhance the character, value and appeal of each individual property, but collectively will have a positive impact on the appearance of the district’s high streets.

Matthew Broughton, North East Derbyshire District Council’s Director of Growth and Assets, said: “The Shopfront Enhancement Scheme is an exciting opportunity for businesses and landlords to improve their properties, helping to make our town centres and high streets a more inviting and vibrant place for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

“The Scheme will have a positive impact on our local communities and make a visible difference to our district whilst also providing an opportunity to make premises more energy efficient and reduce their utility costs and carbon footprints. We look forward to supporting North East Derbyshire District businesses to improve their properties, footfall and help their businesses thrive.”

Grants are available from a minimum of £500 to a maximum of £10,000, a contribution of up to 75% of total project costs.

The scheme could fund the following types of work:

  • New signage, windows, doors, canopies and professional fees
  • Improved energy efficiency
  • Appropriate lighting
  • Access improvements
  • Reinstatement of historical shopfront
  • Stonework repairs
  • Appropriate external art-work
  • External planters or seating

All works must adhere to the recommendations and principles of NEDDC’s Shopfront Design Guide.

For more information on eligibility criteria, the Shopfront Design Guide, and application process, visit the shop front enhancement pages on the council’s website.

For advice about the scheme, Email North East Derbyshire Council’s Economic Development Team.

The Shopfront Enhancement Scheme is the latest project to get underway, as part of a £2.5m package of funding awarded to the Council earlier this year from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, to spend on initiatives to improve the District’s parks, play areas, shop fronts, tourism offer and business support, amongst other improvements over the coming years.

Clay Cross

Birds’ eye view of Clay Cross Town Centre

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Vicar Lane Shopping Centre invites visitors to celebrate the coronation in St. James’ Square

On Saturday 6th May, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is set to host a celebration to mark the coronation of King Charles III in St James’ Square for shoppers and visitors alike to enjoy.

Between 10am and 3pm, families can pull up a deckchair on the green in St James’ Square which will be laid out amongst some family favourite giant games.

For those wanting to watch the ceremony, Vicar Lane will be showing the Coronation Service live on their big screen which is due to begin at 11am.

Throughout the day, there’ll be many more activities to marvel at such as stilt walkers, face painters and royal themed entertainers, bringing a sense of joy to Steeplegate and Vicar Lane. no booking is required and all the entertainment is free.

In the lead up to the event, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre are running a very royal social media competition, giving one lucky follower the chance to win a Hamper Fit for A King worth up to £80! Keep an eye out on their social media channels for further details.

Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator at Vicar Lane said: We are very much looking forward to welcoming new and existing visitors to celebrate this significant day that will go down in history with us.

“It is always so great to see the community using the space here at Vicar Lane so we hope everyone will enjoy the activities we have on offer.”

Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is  home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. Find out more about independent retailers in the town, alongside our historic market and market hall at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

Find out more about local events taking place to mark the coronation of King Charles III in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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

Wimbledon Vicar Lane Big Screen

The big screen at St. James’ Square, Vicar Lane

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Derbyshire tourism organisations receive new national accreditation

The two organisations responsible for leading on the promotion, marketing and development of the visitor economy in the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby have formed a partnership that has been recognised by VisitEngland – in a government programme to establish a new structure for the tourism industry.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby have come together as Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby to receive official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status from VisitEngland.

The LVEP programme is a new national portfolio of strategic and high-performing tourism bodies that work in collaboration with local, regional and national stakeholders on shared priorities to support and grow the visitor economy.

LVEP accreditation recognises tourism bodies that can play a critical role in place-shaping, providing effective leadership and management of their destination and ensuring the area is inclusive, accessible and sustainable for visitors both nationally and internationally.

The creation of LVEPs was part of the UK Government’s response to the recommendations of ‘The De Bois Review’, to reshape destination management across England, reducing fragmentation and bringing coherence to its tourism landscape.

As well as a nationally recognised official status, LVEPs will also be able to access expert advice, dedicated toolkits and training programmes from VisitBritain/VisitEngland in areas ranging from distribution, accessibility and sustainability to business support and marketing.

Importantly, LVEPs will also be able to bid for Government funding streams to support the growth of the visitor economy in their area.

Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby has joined the LVEP programme as one of 12 new partnerships alongside Marketing Cheshire, Experience Oxfordshire, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, Visit West, Marketing Manchester, Visit Hertfordshire, Visit Kent, Liverpool City Region, Cumbria Tourism, and Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire says: “Receiving Local Visitor Economy Partnership status is fantastic news for the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby. Not only does this official accreditation reflect the effectiveness of our strategic approach to growing the county’s visitor economy, but the wide-ranging support we offer to tourism businesses.

“Great destinations are great places to live, work and visit and it’s essential that we work collaboratively to develop our offer and secure further investment. We are very proud to be at the forefront of delivering the ambitions of the De Bois review and welcome the role that we can play in driving forward change, working closely with our partners and local authorities.

“Having this official status will help us grow our visitor economy further, and will ensure the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors.”

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We strongly backed this LVEP application and to hear it has been successful is wonderful news which will be welcomed by everyone involved in the county’s tourism sector.

“We already have a thriving tourism industry and strong local visitor economy but this will provide a huge boost to the excellent work that is already being carried out by all the partners involved, who continue to attract millions of visitors to our beautiful and varied county from across the country and much further afield.

“The national recognition will lead to more collaborative working locally, regionally and nationally, better access to extra funding and expert advice on hand from VisitBritain/VisitEngland, ensuring every opportunity can be taken to support, promote and grow this valuable sector which benefits so many.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “VisitEngland is delighted to welcome onto the programme the 12 new LVEPs, who will play a central role in transforming the visitor economy in England in an inclusive, accessible and sustainable way. Ensuring we have the right national and local infrastructure in place to grow our visitor economy will ensure England continues to be a compelling destination, for both domestic and international visitors, for years to come.

“We look forward to working in collaboration with the LVEPs, providing ongoing support including a team of dedicated VisitEngland regional development leads. LVEPs will also have access to resources and guidance from VisitBritain/VisitEngland in areas including product distribution, business support, bidding for funding and marketing.”

VisitEngland welcomed the first three LVEPs, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Visit County Durham and Visit Northumberland, into the programme earlier this year. They form the pilot Destination Development Partnership (DDP) in the North East of England, led by NewcastleGateshead Initiative, first announced by the UK Government in November 2022. The pilot is a valuable opportunity to prove the DDP concept and the impact the model can have on growing the visitor economy, strengthening the case for future funding.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby will work closely with VisitEngland during the LVEP set-up process and beyond, with ongoing support from a dedicated VisitEngland regional development lead.

staying tourists

 

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Progress continues at Horizon 29 development in North Derbyshire

A new industrial development near the M1 in North Derbyshire is progressing rapidly, and is expected to total over one million sq.ft of space once complete.

Horizon 29, located in Bolsover is strategically positioned with J29a of the M1 only a mile away, providing excellent access to the UK’s national motorway network. The scheme extends to 53 acres offering a variety of unit sizes, ranging between 73,174 – 249,995 SQ FT across three phases.

Construction is now 80% complete at Horizon 29 for Phase 1A, and 40% complete for Phase 1B. Cladding has completed for Units 1 and 2 and internal works are progressing rapidly. Steelwork is nearing completion for Phase 1B.

Horizon 29 is an outstanding development for a diverse range of businesses seeking to optimise their distribution network in the East Midlands and to the rest of the UK.

Sustainable features of the industrial and development hub include solar PVs, air source heat pumps, enhanced cladding, responsibly sourced sustainable materials, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points.All external works are being undertaken by McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) including general hardstanding, car-parking, electric vehicle charging points, landscaping, mains services and drainage.

Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are delighted that works are progressing well at Horizon 29 P1B and we’re on track for completion this summer. In a prime location in the Midlands, Horizon 29 will be a premier distribution centre for the region, and an ideal hub for quality tenants looking for direct and easy access to the M1 north and south.

Dick Smallman, construction director at Equation Properties, said: “We are delighted to be working with McLaren on the second phase of this prestigious development, the scheme is progressing extremely well. This is a high-quality product in a premier location.”

To find out more about the current developments taking place across Chesterfield, alongside the benefits the town can offer to businesses investing here, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Horizon29

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Green Arch Consulting supports FTSE 250 listed organisation with ESG reporting

Green Arch Consulting has been retained to develop and write JLEN’s ESG report for 2023.

The company supports businesses in Chesterfield, as well as nationally and internationally, to embed environmental and social considerations into their ‘business as usual.’

This helps to make organisations more resilient to a changing climate and changing public and investor opinions, and helps firms make sense of the rapid rise in environmental issues in the media and with investors, customers and clients.

2023 is the 5th year running that Green Arch has had input to JLEN’s ESG reporting, which Green Arch Consulting was originally responsible for designing and developing.

JLEN is an environmental infrastructure investment fund listed on the London Stock Exchange. It is part of the FTSE 250 and has been awarded the Green Economy Mark from LSE.

The report has won a series of awards including ‘Best ESG Communication’ award at The Association of Investment Companies (AIC) Shareholder Communication Awards 2022. JLEN’s ESG report has also been shortlisted for a number of awards including, most recently the edie Awards 2023, in the Sustainability & Reporting Communications category.

Emma Knight-Strong, sustainability coach and owner at Green Arch Consulting commented: “It is increasingly evident that businesses with a clear sustainability path are more resilient and more attractive to investors, customers and clients.

“There are big risks to business associated with climate change, but there are also big opportunities for businesses that take it seriously and develop a truly sustainable model of operating in a rapidly changing world.”

Speaking about Chesterfield’s sustainability credentials, Emma added: “There is significant expertise in Chesterfield related to the low carbon transition – by collaborating together we can deliver a really interesting offering to clients across the UK and beyond.”

Find out more about Green Arch Consulting’s recent work alongside the Central Bank of Nigeria – which is helping the organisation in its transition to a low carbon future: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/02/green-arch-consulting-advises-international-bank-on-sustainability/

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

Emma Knight-Strong Green Arch Consulting

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Sustainable packaging firm in Chesterfield chosen by luxury chocolate maker for Easter

Robinson Paperbox Packaging, a manufacturer based in Chesterfield has once again been chosen by Rococo Chocolates to be the supplier of its flagship Easter egg box for 2023.

Rococo, part of the Dimori group, is one if the leading luxury confectionery brands in the UK with retail outlets in London and various concessions in leading UK department stores such as Fenwick’s.

Robinson, who were recently awarded FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification for its Paperbox division, has produced a rigid shoulder box with internal fitments with a printed satin ribbon to hold the egg in place. The box has been printed in the traditional blue Rococo design inside and out on an uncoated paper. The packaging is 100% recyclable and has no element of plastic in it unlike most other easter egg boxes on the market.

Rococo chose to add a final sticker to the front of the box to distinguish each design, this allowed them to print the boxes in bulk to gain a more cost-effective price.

Nicola Imoli from Rococo commented: “Robinson Paperbox are a perfectly suited partner for our packaging, offering flexible lead times and high-quality boxes made to the highest quality that represent our brand ethos.”

Jon Walker, New Business Development Manager, from Robinson said: “We are absolutely delighted to once again partner with this premium producer to offer the ultimate Easter egg gifts. Our creative team and state of the art machinery allow us to produce packaging that matches the deliciously unique chocolate eggs created by Rococo.”

FSC certification ensures that all products produced at Paperbox are sustainable. FSC-managed forests help provide clean air and water by restricting hazardous chemicals and following strict harvesting and forestry practices. Their work also helps ensure a diversity of animals, trees and plants as well as providing safe working conditions for everyone involved.

This further demonstrates the investment that the company is making in its Paperbox business, following a significant investment in its new SATE box-making machine in Chesterfield, with improved quality and a reduced carbon footprint that allows customers to avoid long, complex supply chains from Asia. Robinson partners with some of the world’s most luxurious brands, from concept to commercialisation, creating widely recyclable packaging made from 100% post-consumer recycled material.

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

Robinson

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Sports agency announces move to Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre has welcomed yet another tenant, with I Am Sports Management announcing the building in the heart of Chesterfield as its new home.

The ‘Grade A’ office space is already more than 60% occupied, with firm taking advantage of the central location, modern facilities and wide range of business support.

I Am Sports Management is a Christian Based Sports Agency. The organisation manages player representation, as well as providing a wider personal service to young players as well as established professionals.

On top of representing athletes in the world of sport, the company’s clients are supported with Mental and Spiritual wellbeing, family support and finance guidance.

Business owner, Steve Jacques commented: “All that we do is based on the foundation of our faith and is delivered in a transparent, ethical and moral basis and treating players as people not assets.”

I Am Sports Management joins several new arrivals to the Enterprise Centre, with digital transformation firm Konektio and charity CP Teens also announcing a move to the development in recent weeks.

Steve explained why the centre provided the perfect base for his organisation: “We wanted a central location but something that was a more contemporary feel and this was exactly what we were looking for. We actually expected to have to go to a city to get this environment.”

“I was born and bred in Chesterfield. In spite of working significant amounts of time in London and with extensive overseas travel, Its my town! It’s ideally central for travel by car, rail and air and has a great mix of activity and peace round the corner in the Peak District.

“Don’t be fooled by the idea of a ‘sleepy market town’. The facilities here are excellent and superb value for money for B2b businesses.

Find out more about basing your business in one of Chesterfield’s quality grade A office spaces at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

i am sports management

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“Together we can all help bring about lasting change and prosperity to the town”

Destination Chesterfield Chair, Peter Swallow is calling on everyone associated with Chesterfield to ‘talk up the town’ and collaborate further to ensure the local economy continues to thrive in the future.

I’ve said it before and I will say it again, we ALL need to talk up the town.

There is more than £2 billion of investment in progress and on the way across our borough to help ensure that we all have a bright future ahead of us. The lasting and far reaching change we are striving for in Chesterfield cannot be done by one organisation alone; it must be a collaborative effort.

We all have a role and responsibility to tell people about the many great reasons they should live, work, invest and stay here.

Chesterfield’s geographical position within the UK is hard to beat. We are centrally located with excellent road and rail links and a number of major airports within a 90 minute drive.

Furthermore, the benefits of our proximity to the Peak District National Park should not  be underestimated. Chesterfield is the gateway to this wonderful landscape, and it attracts millions of visitors each year – with around half of them staying overnight and many of them passing through the town to get to the Peak District.

Herein lies our challenge. By talking up the town to friends, relatives, colleagues and suppliers from outside the area, we can attract more people to visit and stay overnight in Chesterfield rather than just passing through, the result being more revenue for the town as a whole.

Increasing the visitor economy of the town by 20% is one of the key targets in the Chesterfield Growth Strategy which has been launched by Chesterfield Borough Council.

By increasing the visitor economy, we will also help create jobs for local people and opportunities for existing and new businesses.

We must all shout about what the town has to offer to holiday makers visiting the Peak District.

Living and working in the town on a daily basis, we can often become complacent about what it has to offer visitors to the area.

We have a variety of places to stay, including the award-winning Casa Hotel, as well as great road, rail and bus links into the Peak District. You can even cycle from the town into the Peak District.

Beyond our world famous Crooked Spire Church and the Brampton Mile, we have two theatres, Chesterfield FC, historic market, restaurants, bars, cafes, boutique shops, live music venues, Queen’s Park – which is host to many wonderful events like the cricket and concerts in summer… I could go on, the list of reasons to visit and stay in Chesterfield are endless.

Having a thriving local economy is key to developing conversations with national investors and ensuring Chesterfield continues to grow and develop. If we want to see the town thrive in an increasingly competitive market, we need to do more collectively. We must champion Chesterfield outside the area in order to help us bring investment into the borough and create highly skilled jobs.

Together we can all help bring about lasting change and prosperity to the town which will benefit local people now and future generations.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Derbyshire County Cricket Club achieves debt free target with 2022 surplus

Derbyshire County Cricket Club recorded its ninth surplus in ten years for the year ending 31 December 2022, as the Club announced it is debt free two years ahead of schedule.

The Club has announced a pre-tax surplus of £174,000 in 2022, which follows three years of positive financial results and have now achieved a key objective of becoming debt free significantly ahead of the 2024 target.

Chairman, Ian Morgan OBE, said: “The Club exceeded its financial targets once again in 2022. We had budgeted for a small surplus of around £50,000, but were able to achieve three times this in a challenging year, during which the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic were still being felt, coupled with the rising costs all business are facing across the board.

“This positive result has ensured the Club is in a strong position and now debt free, following four years of large surpluses. It is great credit to the tireless work of our executive team, off-field staff and the continued support of a number of key stakeholders, including our commercial partners and Members, to whom we owe our gratitude.”

The Club started to see a return of revenues to more pre-pandemic levels and particularly in ticketing, had a large revenue surplus versus budget.

Chief Executive, Ryan Duckett, said: “In 2020 and 2021 we very much had to lockdown the business to reduce costs; ticket income, commercial sponsorship and conference and events revenues were severely affected, but thankfully we have been able to rebuild the business over the last 12 months, back to pre-pandemic levels and in certain areas beyond.

“Having achieved our objective of becoming debt free we now have strong foundations to build on the positive progress made by Mickey Arthur and the squad last year on the field and further invest in our facilities.”

Chief Financial Officer, Tim Baker, added: “The Club has budgeted for another small surplus in 2023, with a focus on trying to manage rising costs in an increasingly challenging economic climate. We are mindful that 2023 will be a tough year financially and will continue to look for ways to grow our revenues and manage our costs to maintain this healthy financial position and ultimately continue investment in facilities and the cricket budget.”

The Club has delivered on the objective, set by the Board of Directors, to be debt free apart from a long-term mortgage by the end of 2024, two years ahead of the planned schedule. This was achieved by paying in excess of £2,000,000 of loan repayments over the last few years linked to the building of the WDS Business and Media Centre.

The Club’s Annual Report and Accounts were approved by Members at the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 29 March at The Incora County Ground.

Derbyshire will be returning to Chesterfield this Summer for the annual Chesterfield Festival of Cricket. Find out more about the event here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/the-chesterfield-festival-of-cricket/

The club 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, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

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