Development

£3.3 million investment at Chesterfield Station

A major infrastructure upgrade is taking place to strengthen two platforms at Chesterfield station.

The £3.3 million investment will see 40-metre sections of platforms 1 and 2 reconstructed to provide better structural integrity, improving passenger experience and reducing maintenance costs in the long-term.

Network Rail began site preparation in August, ahead of the main project work starting on Monday 13 October.

The station will remain open to passengers throughout, and the core work will take place over Christmas to minimise passenger disruption as trains do not run in this area on Christmas Day or Boxing Day.

The project will see the existing platform surface removed and new steel cross members installed. Construction of the new platforms will include using glass-reinforced plastic panels, which are easier to install but just as durable as a traditional build.

In addition, the steel superstructure beneath the platform on Crow Lane will be grit-blasted, repaired and repainted before the end of 2025.

Half of the platform areas will be hoarded off for a period from October to February to allow work on top of and beneath the surface during daytime working hours.

The project is expected to be completed before the end of March 2026 and includes new fencing and lighting to improve security and safety at the station.

Jonny Ham, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said: “This investment is vital in maintaining the long-term safety and reliability of Chesterfield station.  “We’re working hard to minimise disruption and deliver modern, resilient platform structures that will serve passengers for decades to come.”

Philippa Cresswell, EMR customer experience director, said: “We’re pleased to support Network Rail as they deliver these essential upgrades at Chesterfield station. “The temporary closure of Crow Lane will mean journeys to and from the station may take a little longer, so we encourage customers to allow extra time when travelling.

“We’d like to thank everyone for their patience while this important investment takes place, and once complete, the improvements will provide a safer, more modern station environment for everyone travelling through Chesterfield for many years to come.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Plan for growth across the East Midlands launched

Residents across the East Midlands could see better jobs, more affordable homes, and stronger, fairer communities through a bold new 10-year growth plan.  

The East Midlands Growth Plan 2025-2035 sets out a long-term vision to deliver fast, fair growth for all, ensuring every community and resident across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire benefits from economic progress. 

The plan will add £13 billion to the regional economy and support 60,000 more people into work over the next decade. It also sets ambitious goals to deliver more than 100,000 new homes, 210,000 new qualifications, and invest more than £2 billion in new transport infrastructure to better connect people to jobs and opportunity. 

At its heart is a commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that the proceeds of economic success are shared fairly, with investment directed where it will have the greatest impact on people’s lives. 

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “For the first time, we have a growth plan that is backed by the region and puts us in pole position to succeed.

“This plan is about unlocking growth while tackling inequality, creating better jobs, fairer pay, and new opportunities in every community. By working with business, government, and local partners, we can build a stronger, more inclusive economy that delivers for everyone.

“The East Midlands has the people, the ideas and the determination to drive Britain’s growth. We must now turn our potential into prosperity, creating the right conditions for business to thrive and local people to succeed.”

The plan identifies key sectors which will power future growth, including clean energy, MedTech and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital industries, and the visitor economy. It also outlines major place-based projects such as the Trent Arc and Supercluster, which together could deliver £3.3bn in economic value and create more than 55,000 high-quality jobs. 

EMCCA’s Inclusive Growth Framework, developed from the East Midlands Inclusive Growth Commission’s findings, is a key step in making sure everyone in the region benefits from growth. It sets out a vision for 2040 in which every young person has a fair start, every resident has a route to good work, and every community shares in the region’s success. 

Using practical ideas like better skills, housing, transport, and the Opportunity Escalator pathway to better jobs, the Framework turns this vision into action. The East Midlands Growth Plan puts the Framework into practice by guiding investment, supporting local industries, and creating thriving communities with fair opportunities for all. 

Mayor Claire added: “I want the East Midlands to be one of the UK’s fastest growing and most inclusive regional economies – a place where people are proud to live, work, and build their futures. This plan is the roadmap to get us there.”

The Growth Plan was formally approved by the EMCCA Board before being launched at Derby’s Museum of Making, where business leaders and civic partners were invited to pledge their support to “drive inclusive growth that benefits every person and place across the East Midlands.”

David Williams, chair of EMCCA’s business advisory board, said: “This is an exciting plan with a bold ambition to place the East Midlands at the very forefront of the UK economy, especially in key, growing sectors such as clean energy, medical technology and advanced manufacturing.

“Backed by a stronger local skills base, with more apprenticeships and graduate retention, businesses will be supported to grow, scale and innovate, with upgraded infrastructure to cut costs and boost competitiveness, alongside improved access to finance, investment, and export markets.”

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Scott Knowles said:

“Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands play a huge role in driving the UK economy, boasting world-class firms and outstanding talent and innovation. Investment into skills, green energy and business support is essential for all three counties to thrive going forward into the future, so I welcome the plans that have been outlined by Mayor Claire Ward today.  The East Midlands Growth Plan details how the two counties and cities will focus on addressing the age-old challenge of the East Midlands receiving less investment compared to other regions of the UK.

The East Midlands Growth Plan is the first of a new suite of mayoral strategies, including the upcoming Mayor’s Transport Plan and Get East Midlands Working Plan, which together will deliver the Mayor’s vision of inclusive, sustainable growth. 

For residents, this means more chances to access training, better-paid jobs, affordable energy-efficient homes, and improved transport links that make daily life easier. For business, it means a clearer route to invest, scale, and thrive in a region that’s open for growth.

Mayor Claire will be discussing regional growth at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November at the Casa Hotel.
Find out more and book your place at the event at www.chesterfield.co.uk/investmentsummit

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

Firms take the lead in East Midlands green growth

More East Midlands businesses are getting sales from Green Goods and Services, while small and medium-sized firms have increased their green growth engagement in the last year. Headline findings from joint research published by East Midlands Chamber and the University of Derby.

The tenth annual Green Growth Trends in the East Midlands report reveals that more businesses are generating sales from Green Goods and Services. Engagement in environmentally sustainable economic growth has tripled among East Midlands firms since 2015.

Key findings include:

  • Nearly half (46%) of East Midlands firms now earn revenue from Green Goods and Services, up 3% from 2024.

  • Decarbonisation efforts have increased by 2.7% since last year, with 48.1% of firms now actively reducing carbon emissions. SMEs are leading the charge, with seven in ten medium-sized firms and half of small firms investing in decarbonisation.

  • Fewer large businesses are engaged in green growth, dropping from 75% in 2024 to 40% in 2025, while small and medium enterprises are stepping up their involvement.

  • Collaboration remains limited, with less than 10% of firms working together on green growth initiatives, and nearly half (46%) have never engaged in nature-based solutions.

Richard Blackmore, Director of Policy and Insight at East Midlands Chamber, said:
“The lift in the number of firms addressing sustainability goals shows East Midlands businesses are prioritising the journey toward net zero. Smaller and medium-sized firms are embracing the opportunities presented by decarbonisation strategies, from boosting reputation to reducing energy costs and preparing for a cleaner future.”

Dr Polina Baranova, Associate Professor of Strategy and Sustainability at Derby International Business School, added:
“Green growth is multifaceted and faces challenges such as market development for green products, investment in decarbonisation, and skills gaps. A stable and clear policy support is needed to encourage businesses to invest confidently in sustainable growth.”

The full Green Growth Trends in the East Midlands 2025 report is available here.

Posted in Business, Development

Summit to spotlight how investment in Chesterfield is fuelling inclusive growth for the East Midlands

Business owners are invited to discover how Chesterfield’s ongoing regeneration is unlocking significant investment opportunities and driving inclusive growth across the region. 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit takes place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at the Casa Hotel. The event will provide an in-depth update on the transformative projects shaping the town’s future. It will highlight how regeneration is creating new opportunities for local people, businesses, and investors. 

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, will address the summit, sharing her vision and priorities for the East Midlands.

Claire Ward commented: “Chesterfield is part of our region’s ambitions for inclusive growth. By working together, we can ensure that investment benefits every community, creating new opportunities and a brighter future for all. I look forward to engaging with local businesses and partners at the summit.” 

Andrew Byrne, Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, will discuss what inclusive growth means to the Devonshire Group and how this is being delivered across their sites in the borough.

Andrew Byrne said: “Inclusive growth is about ensuring that everyone in Chesterfield can share in the benefits of regeneration. At Devonshire Group, we are committed to creating places that support local jobs, skills, and communities. The summit is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the progress being made and to invite more partners to join us on this journey.” 

A key feature of this year’s summit will be a panel discussion focusing on the East Midlands Investment Zone site in Staveley. The session will explore the unique opportunities and benefits the Investment Zone brings to the borough, including its potential to attract new businesses, create skilled jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth. Simon White from Tawnywood will join a panel to share insights on how the Investment Zone is supporting business expansion and innovation in Chesterfield. 

Organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with the Devonshire Group and Tawnywood, the event will showcase major regeneration projects across the borough.  Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council, will provide updates on the £2 billion of regeneration projects across the borough. 

There will also be a focus on activity in Chesterfield town centre.  This includes an update from Dominic Staniforth, Chair of  Chesterfield Town Board, and insights from  Amy Revell, Co-Founder of We Are Spaces, a commercial interior firm, which is refurbishing an office space in the town centre. 

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, added: 

“The Investment Summit is a fantastic opportunity to spread the word about all the incredible things happening in Chesterfield. I look forward to welcoming local businesses and investors to the summit and discussing with them how they can play a key role in Chesterfield’s future.” 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit is also supported by East Midlands Chamber and We Are Spaces. 

To see full event details and secure your place, please book online at:
https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/investment-summit/ 

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

Work begins on new bungalow development amid growing national demand

Construction is now underway on a new development of 17 high-quality bungalows in Wingerworth, designed exclusively for people aged 55 and over. The homes are being delivered by Chesterfield-based housebuilder and Chesterfield Champions, Stancliffe Homes, following planning approval from North East Derbyshire District Council.

The development, named Kingswood Park, will feature five distinct styles of two- and three-bedroom bungalows. Each home will be built to high energy-efficiency standards and finished to the premium specification Stancliffe Homes is known for. Interest in the scheme is already strong, with enquiries coming in before any formal advertising has begun.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Kingswood Park, said: “We’ve already had so many enquiries about when these new homes will be available to the market. Given the strong demand for our high-quality new build homes in the locality, we’re expecting these further homes to be hugely popular.”

The start of work at Kingswood Park comes as national research highlights a chronic shortage of bungalows across the UK. A recent survey by the HomeOwners Alliance found that 38% of homeowners aged 55 and over would prefer a bungalow for their next move. Yet figures from the National House Building Council show that bungalows made up just 1% of new home registrations last year.

Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance, said: “Our research shows that too many older homeowners feel stuck in homes that no longer work for them.”

Stancliffe Homes has built bungalows across many of its schemes consistently for the last seven years and recognises the growing need for suitable homes for the UK’s ageing population. The company notes that prioritising the construction of bungalows isn’t just about meeting demand, it’s about enabling older people to live independently, stay connected to communities, and free up larger family homes for younger generations.

The homes at Kingswood Park are designed to support independent living while reducing environmental impact. Each bungalow will include air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solar panels, EV charging points and other energy-efficient features. These homes not only support sustainable living but also help reduce energy bills and future-proof housing for changing needs.

By building bungalows in established communities like Wingerworth, Stancliffe Homes is helping older residents stay connected while enjoying the benefits of modern, manageable homes.

Discover more about living in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Inspiring the next generation of construction workers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Work begins at Hartington Commerce Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about the projects of the Staveley Town Deal.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Work begins on modern custody suite

Builders and contractors are on site to begin work on a brand new custody suite in Chesterfield.

The new purpose-built facility for Derbyshire Constabulary, based in Dunston, will serve the north of the county, and work is currently underway to prepare the grounds and foundations.

The project will be delivered by Chesterfield Champions Willmott Dixon.

It will take over from the current custody suite, based in Ripley.

The modern design, which has gone through a thorough design and approval process with contractors Willmott Dixon, has been based on national guidance and research to ensure it meets the needs of every prisoner..

Inside the suite, there will be 36 cells, interview and consultation rooms, as well as dedicated voluntary attendance and bail areas.

There will also be a virtual court to help with dialling into hearings, as well as a larger, naturally lit charge area and specially designed process rooms.

Welfare facilities will also be included, as well as modern CCTV and security and areas for vehicles.

Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Price at Derbyshire Constabulary said: “This new custody suite represents a significant investment in our operational capabilities. The modern facility will provide our officers with the modern and fit for purpose working environment they need to serve the communities of Derbyshire effectively.”

Michelle Cotterill, project director at Willmott Dixon, added: “We are proud to be working with Derbyshire Constabulary to deliver this critical infrastructure. As a company with extensive experience in law-and-order projects, we understand the unique requirements of custody facilities and the importance of creating environments that support both operational efficiency and officer wellbeing.”

The main structure is set to be constructed in 2026, and the build is currently due to complete mid-2027.

Posted in Development, Home

NeoDyne expands its Chesterfield office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about the benefits of investing in Chesterfield.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about Staveley Town Deal Projects

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

Capital Angling hooks unit at Markham Vale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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