Development

Business round-up: partnerships, appointments and awards

Chesterfield College Group to become strategic partner of Chamber

East Midlands Chamber has announced that Chesterfield College Group will join as a new strategic partner.

Chesterfield College Group collaborates with hundreds of employers across the region, ranging from micro-businesses to large multinational organisations. The College has been rated Good by Ofsted, with an Outstanding grade for teacher training provision, and has won multiple awards for its accountancy training. In 2026, it will further expand its facilities with the opening of a new £10 million Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Building.

As a strategic partner, Chesterfield College Group will engage with East Midlands Chamber members across the region and contribute its expertise to policy discussions when political leaders meet with the Chamber.

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said:

“Further Education is an essential component in supporting provision of a skilled workforce for the future and Chesterfield College Group has built strong connections with business in Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

“I’m pleased to welcome Chesterfield College Group as a strategic partner, where I’m certain our shared goals of bringing employers and educators together to achieve growth will make for valuable collaboration.”

Chesterfield College Group Principal and CEO Julie Richards said:

“East Midlands Chamber’s insight into what businesses need and the importance they place on further education and prioritising skills to best equip the workforce of tomorrow, aligns perfectly with the College’s vision of empowering people through education, where individuals grow and communities thrive.

“We are excited for all of the opportunities this partnership will open for our students and apprentices as well as the business communities we serve.”

Shorts appoints Tom Wotton as Tax Director

Accountancy firm Shorts, with offices in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, is delighted to announce the appointment of Tom Wotton as Tax Director, effective Monday 26 January 2026.

Tom’s arrival strengthens the firm’s Tax Advisory team, increasing its leadership to four tax partners and five tax directors. His appointment further enhances Shorts’ ability to deliver high‑quality tax advice to its growing client base and supports the continued development of the Tax Advisory team.

Tom brings significant experience from previous senior roles, having advised a wide range of businesses and their owners. His expertise will be invaluable in supporting Shorts’ clients and expanding the firm’s tax advisory capabilities.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom said:

“I am excited to join Shorts at such a dynamic time for the firm. I look forward to contributing to the continued growth of the Tax team and working closely with colleagues and clients to deliver robust and forward‑thinking and proactive tax advice.”

Scott Burkinshaw, Tax Partner at Shorts, added:

“We are delighted to welcome Tom to the firm.  Tom’s appointment demonstrates our continued investment in high-calibre people and our commitment to providing outstanding service to our clients.  Our tax advisory team is having a very busy year at present and the whole firm plans to grow further. His broad and high levels of experience will be great assets to the team.”

This appointment is the latest example of Shorts strengthening its specialist advisory services.  As a firm that is proud to retain its independent status, Shorts remains committed to investing in highly qualified talent to service their clients. See shorts.uk.com

Peak Edge Hotel achieves near five-Star quality score 

Local venue Peak Edge Hotel, has achieved an AA Quality Score of 85% following its latest AA overnight inspection – a level of performance typically associated with five-star hotels and placing it among the strongest-performing four-star hotels in the UK.

The independent assessment also reaffirmed the hotel’s Four Star AA Silver Award, alongside Two AA Rosettes for its Red Lion Restaurant, recognising excellence across hospitality, service, bedrooms and food.

The AA Quality Score sits at the top of the four-star category and above the national average, reflecting consistent performance across hospitality, food, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Inspectors praised the Peak Edge team as “wonderful, confident, friendly and attentive,” noting that the hotel offers a “memorable stay.”

Food was highlighted as a particular strength, underpinned by Peak Edge’s close connection to Walton Lodge Farm Estate, a Red Tractor certified working farm and home to the hotel’s owner, Steve Perez. The estate supplies rare breed meat, eggs, herbs, honey, and seasonal fruit and vegetables to the hotel and restaurant, reinforcing a genuine field-to-fork approach that is rooted in Derbyshire provenance rather than trend.

The inspection also recognised Peak Edge’s ongoing investment in the property, including a custom walk-in wine cellar from Sorrells, with further bedroom and bathroom upgrades planned. Bedrooms, public areas, and grounds are well maintained, and the hotel’s peaceful countryside setting enhances the overall guest experience.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“We’re incredibly proud of this result. The AA inspection is a rigorous, independent benchmark, so achieving an 85% Quality Score and reaffirming our Silver Award and Rosettes is a real credit to our team. It reflects the standards they deliver every day, while continuing to invest in the hotel and our food story for the long term.”

Located in a prime position, on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Peak Edge Hotel is a four-star countryside retreat known for its relaxed, welcoming style, strong food credentials and deep-rooted connection to local land, producers and place.

For more information, visit peakedgehotel.co.uk.

Peak Edge hotel farm

To keep up to date with what’s happening in our locally visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/news

 

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home

Local licensed venues invited to sign up to Best Bar None scheme

The council urges local licensed venues to join the Best Bar None scheme to boost safety and vibrancy in the day and night-time economy.

All pubs, bars, clubs, and other licensed venues can register for 2026 accreditation. For the first time, restaurants can also take part, giving more venues the opportunity to champion higher standards and safer socialising.

The Home Office backs Best Bar None, which helps customers spot well-run pubs, bars, clubs, and other alcohol-serving businesses.

Launched in Chesterfield town centre in 2024 by the council in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch, and Derbyshire Constabulary, the scheme aims to reduce alcohol-related crime and ensure safer socialising.

It also builds positive relationships between the licensed trade, police, and local authorities, encourages best practice, and improves venue management.

Since its launch, Chesterfield Borough Council has expanded the scheme to include all licensed premises, including restaurants, across the borough. Over 20 venues currently hold Best Bar None accreditation, and the council hopes this number will grow as more premises commit to safe socialising.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“Chesterfield is a very safe place to live, socialise and visit, and while alcohol-related crime and disorder can occasionally arise – as it does in towns and cities across the country – we are committed to ensuring that Chesterfield remains safe, welcoming and fun for everyone, and the Best Bar None scheme helps us to achieve this.

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs and restaurants across the town and we would love to see as many of them as possible become accredited venues and work together to help keep Chesterfield’s day and night-time economy thriving.

“If you own a licensed premises, please do get in touch so we can tell you more about the benefits of becoming an accredited venue, and help raise the bar on standards for your customers and staff.”

More information is available at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

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

Local businesses and charities making an impact in 2026

​SMH Mitchells is pleased to announce the successful Management Buy-Out (MBO) of Peak Electrical Supplies, a leading independent electrical wholesaler.

The deal, led by Andrew McDaid, Partner at SMH Mitchells and a specialist in corporate finance and MBO structures, played a key role in delivering a successful outcome.

The transaction marks an important milestone for the business, with Nicola and Jason Andrews acquiring 100% ownership of Peak Electrical Supplies.

Previously advised by a smaller accounting firm that lacked the technical capacity to structure and finance a transaction of this complexity, Nicola and Jason turned to Andrew for expert guidance. Drawing on extensive experience, including the successful MBO of Juice Electrical Supplies, Andrew provided a clear roadmap for the acquisition and project-managed the deal through every stage of its lifecycle.

Andrew McDaid, Partner at SMH Mitchells, said:

“It has been a pleasure to work with Nicola and Jason to help them realise their ambition of owning Peak Electrical Supplies. Many small firms struggle to navigate the complexities of an MBO, but at SMH Mitchells we thrive on finding creative financing solutions. Having previously structured the deal for Juice Electrical Supplies, I knew exactly how to tailor a package that would protect the cash flow of Peak Electrical while providing a solid foundation for future growth.

We are thrilled that Peak Electrical Supplies has become an ongoing client of the firm. Our role now shifts from architects of the deal to partners in their growth. We look forward to working closely with Nicola and Jason to help them scale the business, optimise their tax position, and achieve the ambitious long-term goals they have set for the company.”

For more information on the services available at SMH Mitchells, visit www.smh.group/mitchells

Chesterfield and Sheffield-based legal firm is once again supporting community wellbeing by partnering with Chesterfield FC Community Trust.

BRM Solicitors will offer professional will writing services throughout February in exchange for a voluntary donation to the trust, supporting programmes for people of all ages across Chesterfield. From 1 to 28 February 2026, BRM will waive its usual will writing fee, with suggested donations of £75 for a single Will or £150 for a mirror Will.

This is the second year BRM and the trust have delivered the Wills Month campaign, following the success of the 2025 initiative, which raised £11,390 for local community programmes. Donations support activities including youth engagement, wellbeing initiatives, mental health support, inclusive sport and dementia support.

BRM is also a Gold Friend of Chesterfield FC Community Trust, reflecting its ongoing commitment to the town. The campaign is led from BRM’s Chesterfield office by executive directors Rob Woodhead and Paul Berresford.

Paul said:

“As a Chesterfield-based employer, it’s a privilege to support an organisation that does so much for those living in the town and surrounding area.

“Anyone considering making a Will can register their interest with BRM ahead of the campaign in February, knowing their voluntary donation will help fund programmes that benefit so many in our community.”

Keith Jackson, deputy head of community for Chesterfield FC Community Trust, said:

“The money raised directly goes towards projects for people affected by cancer, those who have a dementia diagnosis, and supports our Christmas project delivering food hampers to children in Chesterfield.

“Without the support of local businesses, the trust would be restricted in the impact that we are able to have, so by completing a Will during February at BRM and making a donation, your kindness will be directly changing lives in the local community.”

Anyone interested in making a Will with BRM in support of Chesterfield FC Community Trust can register their interest at www.brmlaw.co.uk

Photo caption: Launching the 2026 BRM Chesterfield FC Community Trust Wills Month are (from left) BRM executive director Rob Woodhead, paralegal Grace Blant, solicitor Jess Bradfield, associate solicitor Rose Evans, and executive director Paul Berresford.

Sheffield Children’s Hospital celebrates major anniversary milestone

2026 marks a landmark year for Sheffield Children’s Hospital, celebrating 150 years of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust alongside 50 years of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Sheffield Children’s Hospital plays a vital role in providing specialist care for children and young people from Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, as well as the wider region. Each year, more than 16,000 children from Chesterfield and Derbyshire attend the hospital for specialist treatment, underlining its long-standing importance to local families and its place within the region’s healthcare system.

As part of the anniversary year, the hospital and charity are marking five decades of charitable support that has helped enhance care, facilities and patient experience alongside NHS provision.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary, the charity has launched Theo’s 50 for 50 Challenge, inviting supporters to complete 50 miles during February in any way they choose – from walking and running to cycling. Participants will receive a free charity sports top, with additional rewards available for fundraising milestones.

The anniversary year follows a successful 2025 events programme, which included the record-breaking £437,000 Snowflakes campaign, alongside the Winter Ball, quizzes, abseils, skydives and running challenges.

For more information on Theo’s 50 for 50 Challenge, visit: sheffieldchildrens.org

Posted in Business, Development, Home

New bespoke, handcrafted design business opens at Chesterfield Market Hall

GL Laser Creations is a new independent business now trading from Chesterfield Market Hall, offering handmade and personalised wooden gifts designed and made on site.

Owner, Gemma spent many years working as a manager for a large corporate company, having worked her way up from the bottom. Alongside a busy family life, she always had a creative side, which first came to light when she designed unique items for her own wedding. With support from her husband, a chief engineer working with industrial machinery, including lasers and CNC equipment, those early designs were cut and made with industry professionals and quickly became a hobby.

The business has its roots in a very personal story. Gemma’s mum always encouraged her to follow what she loved and noticed how her passion for creating lit her up. After her mum sadly passed away 16 months ago, shortly after reaching retirement age, that encouragement became the motivation to finally take the leap.

While organising the funeral, Gemma created wooden book-style covers for the order of service, as she wanted people to keep something meaningful rather than something that would be folded away. These later developed into her now best-selling wooden cards.

After leaving her corporate role to support her dad, an opportunity came through a friend who offered workshop space and access to an industrial laser at Arena UK in Grantham. This allowed her to continue creating while also caring for her family, and gave her the confidence to see whether the business could stand on its own.

Speaking on her decision to open at the Market Hall, Gemma said:

“When it came to opening a shop, Chesterfield Market Hall stood out for its support of new and independent businesses. The affordable setup allowed GL Laser Creations to start small, build a customer base, and test the market.”

The response so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with many customers returning regularly to check in and support the business.

Around 80% of the products sold are original designs, exclusive to the shop. Everything can be personalised at no extra cost, and bespoke items are made to order. Customers only pay once they are happy with the finished piece.

All products are made by hand from start to finish. Gemma designs each item on her own software, runs the laser herself, and completes all building and painting. A laser engraver is also available in the shop, allowing customers to have items personalised while they wait and be involved in choosing fonts and layouts.

Popular products include wooden cards, wine holders, and decorative lanterns, all designed to offer something different from what is usually available on the high street.

New designs are added weekly, and the business continues to grow through word of mouth, leaflets, and support from Market Hall management through social media.

GL Laser Creations is open at Chesterfield Market Hall and can also be found on Facebook: www.facebook.com

For more independent retailers in Chesterfield, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Manufacturing, Stay, Visiting

Major expansion announced by Harrison Silverdale in Derbyshire

Harrison Silverdale is proud to announce the construction of a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at its flagship UK factory in Dronfield, marking a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to sustainable, low-carbon manufacturing.

Designed to significantly expand production capacity, the new facility will bring together advanced engineering capability, cutting-edge automation, and renewable energy generation under one roof. It represents a bold investment in the future of British manufacturing, strengthening Harrison Silverdale’s ability to serve customers across the UK and international markets with speed, precision, and consistency.

At the heart of the new operation will be next-generation production technology, including Star Micronics CNC sliding head lathes. These advanced machines will increase machining capacity, enhance precision, and further elevate the quality of the precision-engineered components produced by Harrison Silverdale.

To support even higher standards of quality and efficiency, the facility will also incorporate a MecWash industrial component cleaning plant. This advanced cleaning system will ensure exceptional levels of cleanliness and repeatability, meeting stringent customer specifications while reinforcing the company’s robust internal quality assurance processes.

Sustainability is a central pillar of the project. In line with Harrison Silverdale’s long-term environmental strategy, the site will feature a 41 kW PV solar array. The installation will generate a significant share of the facility’s energy requirements, reducing carbon emissions and contributing directly to the company’s net-zero ambitions.

“Our investment in this new facility reflects our dedication to innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility,” said Mark Harrison, Managing Director at Harrison Silverdale. “By integrating cutting-edge machining, advanced component cleaning, and renewable energy generation, we are building a manufacturing operation ready for the future.”

Construction is already underway, with completion scheduled for May 2026. The project is expected to support continued business growth, create new skilled employment opportunities, and reinforce Harrison Silverdale’s reputation as a leading UK supplier of precision fasteners and assembly components.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

£2 million funding boost for Staveley Town Deal projects

£2 million of funding will help to enhance key projects in Staveley and deliver more benefits for the local community.

East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is providing additional funding to enhance two of the Staveley Town Deal projects, creating an improved green space at the Moorings at Staveley Basin and delivering more for the local community at Barrow Hill Memorial Hall, especially for children and young people.

Chesterfield Borough Council applied for the funding on behalf of the Staveley Town Deal Board.

Barrow Hill Community Trust is leading the refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall. With support from the Town Deal, the Trust is developing a new community pantry, community bar and café, and a health hub. Town Deal funding has also enabled essential building upgrades, including new electrical and ventilation systems.

Funding from EMCCA will support the creation of a nursery and a physical activity space with youth provision in the evenings, as well as provide match funding to help kick-start works on the second storey. This phase will deliver a new events venue alongside additional community facilities.

Staveley Town Deal projects

Derbyshire County Council have built and operate the Moorings at Staveley Basin – the mixed-use development sits next to the historic town basin and aims to attract new businesses to the area. Additional funding from EMCCA will enhance the landscape around the building and create new pontoons for boats to moor in the basin.

Both Staveley projects align with EMCCA’s ‘Vision for Growth Spatial Strategy’ and will support the ambitions of the East Midlands Investment Zone to regenerate the area.

The funding also ensures these projects are delivered as originally envisioned in the Staveley Town Investment Plan.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This investment is about more than buildings and infrastructure – it’s about people. By working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and communities in Staveley, we’re creating inclusive places where everyone feels welcome and has the opportunity to thrive.

“I am committed to making the East Midlands a place that everyone is proud to call home, and that begins with investing in projects that regenerate our towns, villages, and cities.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice-chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is fantastic news for Staveley that will see an important green space improved and a much-used community asset reach its full potential. We’ll work closely with the project sponsors to ensure they have the support they need to deliver these projects for the benefit of Staveley residents.”

Simon Redding, Chair of Barrow Hill Community Trust said: “This funding will make a major difference to the lives, wellbeing and economic inclusion of the people of Barrow Hill and the surrounding communities to the east of Chesterfield. Finally local people will have the community-led facilities for families, young people and physical activity that they deserve and need.”

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This funding demonstrates how investment from the Town Deal has helped secure further funding for Staveley that will deliver even more benefits for the local community.”

For more information on the Staveley Town Deal project, and other local development’s, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Stay

Midlands Mayors unite to secure new defence plan

Midlands Mayors Richard Parker and Claire Ward are urging regional businesses to seize new defence industry opportunities as government spending on national security increases.

Defence is already a major part of the Midlands economy. Both Mayors have made supporting the sector central to their growth plans.

With global military and cyber threats at their highest level in decades, the Mayors are bringing together senior industry leaders. Their aim is to help Midlands firms secure millions of pounds in new government investment for UK-based companies.

The new Midlands Defence and Security Industry Council will promote Midlands manufacturers and innovators, strengthening national security while creating economic growth and well-paid local jobs.

The Council is the first of its kind in the region. It forms part of the Defence and Security Blueprint for the Midlands, which aims to boost defence capabilities across advanced manufacturing, engineering and digital businesses.

The plan includes upskilling the workforce and creating new career routes for graduates and apprentices. It also offers targeted support to help more SMEs win government contracts or enter defence supply chains.

The blueprint will also support innovative firms developing modern defence technologies. These include advanced composite materials, next-generation cyber security, and secure communications systems.

The Mayors launched the plan during a visit to Safran in Wolverhampton. The company employs 1,500 people making mission-critical flight control and actuation systems for commercial and military aircraft.

Safran recently completed a $1.8 billion investment to expand its UK and global operations. It is one of around 1,000 defence and related companies across the West and East Midlands, employing 50,000 people — 10 per cent of the UK defence workforce.

The government’s Defence and Security Industrial Strategy recognises the potential of the West and East Midlands to play an even bigger role in countering global and cyber threats.

Securing new investment and jobs in these sectors is also been identified as a critical economic priority of the Compact agreement signed by the two Mayors last year on behalf of the West Midlands and East Midlands combined authorities that they lead.

Together, the two regions have a £133bn economy made up of almost 150,000 businesses, and a combined population of 5.2 million people.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Defence is of course about keeping our country and our way of life safe, but it also presents some important economic opportunities.

“Our region’s manufacturing sector already plays a vital role in national security, from the armoured vehicles and aerospace parts that we make in Birmingham and the Black Country, to our automotive expertise in Coventry and Solihull.

“This blueprint is our plan to build on the world-class skills, cutting-edge research capability and engineering know-how we have in our region. It will futureproof our economy against times of uncertainty and create real opportunities for people in every part of the Midlands.”

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “The East Midlands has a proud industrial heritage and a growing reputation for innovation, engineering excellence and digital capability. This plan recognises that our region is not only vital to the UK’s national security, but also central to delivering high-quality jobs, investment and long-term economic growth for all our communities.

“Mayor Richard Parker and I know that by working closely with businesses, universities and government, we can help more local firms secure defence contracts, scale up new technologies and build strong supply chains rooted locally. This is about backing our people with the skills they need, creating clear pathways for apprentices and graduates, and ensuring that increased defence spending benefits people in the towns and cities of the Midlands.”

“Through our partnership with the West Midlands and the Defence and Security Blueprint, the East Midlands is ready to play an even bigger role in keeping the country safe while building a stronger, fairer economy for the future.”

Matthew Badhams, Safran Actuation’s associate director for global defense systems, said: “As the UK’s third-largest employer in civil aerospace and a key regional employer in the Midlands, we’re proud to launch the Defence and Security Blueprint for the Midlands at our Wolverhampton site, alongside partners Richard Parker and Claire Ward.

“Safran Electronics & Defense is a market leader on several of the UK’s most critical military platforms and a trusted partner to the Ministry of Defence. We are fully prepared to support the Government’s Defence Industrial Strategy and share its ambition to make defence a powerful driver of economic growth.

“This regional strategy goes beyond enhancing defence capabilities; it focuses on long-term, sustainable growth. In Wolverhampton, it is closely aligned with the Green Innovation Corridor, which brings together advanced manufacturing, clean growth, skills development, and connectivity.

“By linking defence investment with the Green Innovation Corridor, we aim to create new career pathways for young people, strengthen high-value supply chains, and ensure the defence sector grows in a productive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable manner – benefitting Wolverhampton, the Midlands, and the UK as a whole.”

The region’s Defence and Security Blueprint also sets out plans to maximise the legacy from next year’s Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham, by promoting the region as a global leader in defence medicine, rehabilitation innovation, and inclusive veteran support.

There are 15,000 regular armed forces personnel either living or currently based at Ministry of Defence sites here.

Both the West and East Midlands combined authorities are among nearly 15,000 proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant across the Midlands, committing to promoting inclusive employment and helping veterans thrive in civilian life.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

£121 million investment confirmed for East Midlands roads

A £121 million package has been confirmed after being considered by the authority’s transport committee to improve roads across the East Midlands, following backing from the Mayor of the East Midlands. The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) transport committee has agreed the funding over the next three years to support the region’s four highway authorities.

The investment aims to make roads safer, reduce congestion, and address long-standing wear and tear caused by years of underinvestment. The package now moves to the EMCCA board for final approval.

In Chesterfield, the Staveley Regeneration Route (Derbyshire) is one of the key projects underway. £2.5m is invested in development to support housing and regeneration.

What the funding will deliver:

  • Road repairs and maintenance: Resurfacing worn roads, fixing potholes, and upgrading street lighting.

  • Improved footways and cycleways: Safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists.

  • Proactive maintenance: Measures to prevent future road damage.

  • Combined improvements: Drainage upgrades and public realm enhancements in many locations.

  • Neighbourhood transport projects: Over £13.5 million dedicated to smaller schemes such as traffic calming, better signage, and improved local travel across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire.

Mayor Claire Ward said:

“This year, 2026, is the year of delivery for the East Midlands. With this £121m investment now approved, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and make roads safer, journeys smoother, and communities stronger. This isn’t just planning, it’s action, and residents will start seeing the benefits this year.”

She also highlighted progress on the existing £184 million transport programme, which is already delivering safer roads, improved bus services, new cycle routes, and better travel connections.

“By focusing on road maintenance, safer streets, and better transport connections, we are delivering real benefits now while laying strong foundations for long-term improvements over the next seven years,” she added.

The programme remains on track to spend £151m this year, marking the first year of a seven-year plan to deliver long-term improvements across the East Midlands.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Visiting

Progression made on Chesterfield Canal as part of Staveley Town Deal

Significant progress continues on the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal at Staveley, one of the projects within the Staveley Town Deal.

The restoration will reconnect key sections, protect historic features, and create new opportunities for leisure, tourism, and economic growth. The Chesterfield Canal Trust is leading the main phase of restoration works, supported by £5.8 million of the Staveley Town Deal.

Contractor O’Brien Construction Ltd is delivering the main phase of works on the Chesterfield Canal, which includes:

    • Construction of the new Keith Ayling Lock
    • Installation of a water pumping system designed to allow fish and eel passage,
    • Restoration of Bellhouse Basin, including its historic narrows,
    • Reinstatement of the canal through the Hartington Railway Bridge abutments
    • Upgrading footpaths between Bent Lane and Bellhouse Lane
    • Installation of new benches, interpretation panels and extensive landscaping

By restoring navigability and improving surrounding infrastructure, the project will help to encourage an increase in visitor numbers to Staveley, supporting local businesses and tourism as well as enhancing public spaces, including footpaths, bridges and green areas, having an overall impact on improving the quality of life for residents through better access, recreation and employment opportunities.

Over the past months, visible progress has been made on the site. Towards the end of November, the lock excavation was completed, followed by extensive rebar installation and concrete pours throughout early December.

Staveley Town deal

By mid-December, the base slab for the Keith Ayling Lock had been completed, clearly showing how the restored basin will be raised to its final level. Historic stonework from Bellhouse Basin was carefully removed, labelled and stored, ready to be reinstated as part of the restoration.

Meanwhile, Severn Trent Water has been working alongside the project to lower a major 500mm water main beneath the restored canal at Bellhouse Basin, with this element expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The current completion date for the main works is mid-July, bringing Staveley another step closer to seeing the Chesterfield Canal fully restored through this key section.

The Staveley canal restoration is a powerful example of how the Staveley Town Deal is investing in heritage, infrastructure and community wellbeing, creating a destination that will support economic growth while celebrating the area’s industrial past.

For more information and to keep up to date with developments in and around our town, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

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

Chesterfield to benefit from £121m regional road maintenance plan

Chesterfield is set to benefit from part of a £121m investment proposed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) for road maintenance and repairs across the region. The funding will cover the region’s four highway authorities in the 2026/27 financial year.

The funding, to be considered by the authority’s transport committee this week, aims to make roads safer, reduce congestion and tackle years of wear and tear caused by previous underinvestment in the region. 

The proposed investment would be used for a range of work, from repairing worn surfaces and potholes, to maintenance preventing damage before it happens. Some projects will combine road repairs with improvements to pavements, drainage, and public spaces, delivering better results for local communities.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This proposed investment shows our commitment to keeping roads safe and reliable for everyone in the East Midlands. By acting now, we can tackle years of wear and tear, support local communities, and make journeys smoother for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. This decisive action shows we are ready to deliver in 2026.”

Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability at Derby City Council, said: “This proposed additional investment is excellent news for our region.”

Members of the authority’s Transport and Digital Committee will also consider an alternative option this week. This would invest a total of £79.4m in road maintenance for the 2026/27 financial year.

Additionally, more than £13.5m is proposed for local neighbourhood projects. These smaller-scale schemes improve road safety, access, and local travel, directly benefiting people’s daily lives in towns and villages across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

The proposed funding is subject to agreement at the Transport Committee meeting, before going before the EMCCA board for final approval in March.

The upcoming Transport Committee will also discuss the progress of the existing £184m transport investment programme. It has already brought safer roads, better bus services, new cycle routes, and improved travel connections across the region.

Mayor Claire said: “This investment is a significant step forward for our region. By focusing on road maintenance, safer streets, and better transport connections, we are delivering tangible benefits for our communities now, while laying the foundation for long-term improvements across the next seven years.”

Key projects which are underway:

The programme is on track to spend £151m this year, a significant increase compared with 2024/25, showing that EMCCA and the constituent authorities are making real progress on projects that matter to communities and delivering on a larger scale than previously.

This year’s programme is the first of a seven-year investment plan, giving the region certainty to deliver bigger and longer-lasting improvements.

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

Derbyshire property group to deliver new trade and industrial scheme

Litton Property Group, Derbyshire based development and investment company, has completed the purchase of a 2.18-acre site at Markham Vale from HBD to deliver a scheme of industrial and trade units.

With current schemes in Derbyshire, South Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Oxfordshire and Bedfordshire, the property company has more than 25 years’ experience in commercial and mixed use development, delivering property solutions to often complex sites, and works in partnership with land owners, occupiers and its supply chain.

Commercial property agents Knight Frank and Curson Sowerby Partners (CSP) have been appointed to market and secure new occupiers for the new development Markham Vale Trade Park, which will offer seven units from 3,817 to 5,745 sq ft. The scheme offers flexibility and units can be combined to accommodate larger occupier requirements of up to 17,000 sq ft.

It will be developed speculatively with completion expected by Quarter 4 later on in the year, and is expected to create over 100 jobs.

Based on the ongoing development of Markham Vale, the new trade park will offer a roadside position close to occupiers, including CHH Connex, Gould Alloys, Subway, Grangers, McDonald’s, KFC, Greggs, SPAR, Shell and Starbucks.

Mark Twelves, Managing Director at Litton Property Group, said: “Markham Vale Trade Park will deliver a new benchmark for trade counter, warehouse and light industrial accommodation in Derbyshire.

“The development is tailored to offer flexibility to accommodate the operational needs of occupiers from a range of sectors. The units have been designed to a high specification with generous parking, efficient circulation space, and excellent visibility within the thriving Markham Vale estate.

“Our purchase and the development of the site sends out a strong signal that Derbyshire is a place that helps businesses to establish, grow and thrive. With a growing workforce, new housing nearby, and strong regional links, it is perfectly positioned for ambitious businesses.”

The specification of the units include high-quality design with glazed facades, 6.5m Eaves Height to allow for internal fit out and mezzanine first floors where required and generous parking with EV chargers. The development will be BREEAM rating of Very Good and have an EPC rating of A.

Rebecca Schofield, partner at Knight Frank, said: “The development will be attractive to both trade occupiers and traditional industrial occupiers wanting to benefit from the scheme’s prominence and accessibility to the surrounding demographic.

“It will provide much-needed Grade A space in a prime business location, with access to a strong labour market, as well as providing a supplies hub to trades operating in the area.

George Haworth from CSP added: “The seven units offer flexibility and we are already seeing good interest from trade and local occupiers. We expect to announce the first occupiers shortly.”

The wider Markham Vale development totals 200-acre industrial and logistics scheme delivered in a joint venture between HBD and Derbyshire County Council. The award-winning development remains one of the region’s best-located industrial and logistics schemes, sitting at the heart of the UK motorway network and providing direct access to the M1 via a dedicated junction, J29a. Chesterfield town centre sits five miles away; Mansfield is 10 miles, Sheffield 21 miles, with easy access to East Midlands Airport.

Research has shown that 119,000 vehicles pass the site a day; 4,080 new homes are within 10 miles of the site; 270,000 people live within 20 minutes; a population of 5.8 million people are within 60 minutes of the site; with 27.7 per cent of the local workforce in construction and manufacturing.

 

For more information on Markham Vale and the latest developments happening in and around chesterfield visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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