Development

New £5.4m development delivers 26 affordable homes in Chesterfield

Dozens of affordable properties have been developed in Chesterfield, bringing new life to a previously disused space.

The former unused land off Swaddale Avenue has been transformed into a thriving community of 26 affordable homes. The development has been officially opened by Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) in partnership with MyPad.

The thoughtfully-designed scheme offers a range of homes, including two-bed bungalows, and two and three-bed houses to rent or purchase via shared ownership. The affordable rent homes have been let to people on Chesterfield Borough Council’s housing waiting list, and will be managed by NCHA. All but the final few homes are already occupied.

The homes have been built sensitively and with energy efficiency in mind. Built by MyPad and designed by Player Roberts and Bell Architects, the homes have been given an energy rating of ‘B’.

The new scheme was officially opened with a celebration event to mark the completion of the development and the positive impact it will have on the local community. It was attended by representatives from Chesterfield Borough Council and MyPad.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and member for the Brimington South ward, said: “We are really pleased to see residents moving into their new homes after NCHA completed their development here in Chesterfield.

“These homes provide a range of affordable options for residents and give them the opportunity to either rent a property or get their foot on the housing ladder. The development has also brought a mix of housing types to the area, including sought after bungalows.

“As a council it is one of our main priorities to increase the number of affordable homes in the area and have a strong relationship with housing providers like NCHA who can help us to achieve this.

“I would like to thank NCHA for investing in our borough, our residents and communities, and I look forward to many more successful developments coming to life in the future.”

This £5.4 million initiative was made possible through a collaborative funding effort between NCHA and Homes England, which aligns with NCHA’s Strategic Partnership for 2021-2028, aimed at delivering affordable housing across the East Midlands.

Allan Fisher, NCHA’s Director of Development and Sustainability, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “We’re delighted to be building much-needed affordable homes in Chesterfield, where demand for quality housing continues to grow. These new homes are part of our commitment to invest in the area and build a strong portfolio of affordable, sustainable homes that support local communities.”

The transformation of the site represents a significant step towards addressing the ongoing need for affordable, well managed housing in Chesterfield.

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an ideal location to live and work: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

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Major milestone in partnership between Banner Jones and Stancliffe Homes

Two Chesterfield Champion businesses are celebrating a key milestone in their long-standing partnership.

Banner Jones has recently advised on the sale of Stancliffe Homes’ 200th property and supported the acquisition of its eighth residential development site.

The announcement highlights the strength of the East Midlands housing market, where sustained demand and ongoing investment in strategic land continue to drive growth in both new build completions and housing starts.

Stancliffe Homes, a privately owned house builder headquartered in Derbyshire, has worked with Banner Jones since 2018, drawing on the firm’s legal expertise across land acquisition, planning agreements, funding, and plot sales. Together, the partnership has supported the delivery of high-quality housing in locations including Worksop, Wingerworth, Bolsover, Tansley and Mansfield.

In March alone, Stancliffe Homes completed 23 new homes across its sites – each built with the company’s hallmark attention to detail and design quality. In the same month, the housebuilder was also awarded the highest award possible by the Housebuilders Federation for customer satisfaction.

The firm also has several live planning applications, including for new developments in Darley Dale, Wingerworth, Calow, Bolsover and Rutland – all of which will continue to contribute to housing growth and local economic activity across the region.

With an ambitious pipeline and plans to deliver a further 300 homes by the end of 2028, Stancliffe Homes continues to play a key role in supporting regional housing delivery and economic growth.

Andrew Fielder, Director and Head of Business Legal Services at Banner Jones, said: “This milestone reflects the success of our collaboration and the strength of the East Midlands housing sector more broadly. We’re proud to be working alongside a developer like Stancliffe Homes, whose commitment to quality and regional investment is evident in every project.”

“Beyond delivering much-needed homes, these developments create jobs, drive supply chain opportunities, and support the growth of communities across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.”

Sam Jones, Managing Director at Stancliffe Homes, added: “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far, and our partnership with Banner Jones has played a key role in that. Their team understands the fast-moving nature of residential development and consistently delivers pragmatic legal advice that supports our long-term growth.”

“We’re continuing to invest in land, people, and new opportunities – and with a strong pipeline of projects in planning, we’re looking forward to building on our success throughout 2025 and beyond.”

Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services team supports property developers, landowners and investors with a full range of commercial legal services, from real estate and planning law to corporate transactions and finance.

Stancliffe Homes and Banner Jones support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Chesterfield Champions share inspiring milestones and community highlights

From professional achievements and civic celebrations to exciting new appointments and major business wins, Chesterfield’s Champions continue to make headlines for all the right reasons.

This month’s roundup shines a spotlight on the latest success stories from across the town—including the qualification of two new psychotherapists at the Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic, the appointment of Chesterfield’s new Mayor, growth in Bridge Help’s dynamic team, and a major framework win for BSP Consulting.

Dive into the full stories below and discover how local businesses and leaders are making a positive impact in our community.

Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic Celebrates Success of Newly Qualified Psychotherapists

Dan and Sid TLC

The Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic (TLC) in Chesterfield is proudly celebrating a significant milestone, as two of its trainee practitioners have officially qualified as psychotherapists and joined the ranks of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

After dedicating two years to intensive training and contributing nearly 300 hours of therapeutic support between them, Sidonie Herring and Daniel Brereton have successfully earned their professional qualifications and are now pursuing full-time careers as integrative psychotherapists within the TLC team.

Sian Spencer Bray, Clinical Director and Lead Psychotherapist at TLC, praised the achievements of the pair: “Watching them grow into the therapists they are today has been such a privilege, and we can’t wait to witness where their careers take them. The feedback they’ve received from clients has already been exceptional—comments like ‘feeling respected, safe, valued and comfortable’ and even ‘feeling a million times better’ than when they first started truly speak to their impact.”

Sidonie Herring expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her training at TLC: “I’m so pleased to have achieved my qualification, and even more pleased that I got to do it through TLC. From the start, I felt supported by Sian and had everything I needed to work professionally as a trainee. It’s been incredibly rewarding to not only see my own growth but also to witness how TLC as a whole has evolved and expanded its services.”

Daniel Brereton echoed the sentiment, celebrating his new Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Practice: “I’m ecstatic to have achieved my qualification and to be starting a new adventure both personally and professionally. TLC has been a fantastic placement—there’s a real wealth of experience and support here. Psychotherapy can be a lonely profession, but at TLC, there’s always someone to turn to. I feel very fortunate.”

The Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic continues to serve the Chesterfield community with a focus on compassion, professional excellence, and long-term support for both clients and its practitioners. With their new therapists now fully qualified, TLC further strengthens its commitment to accessible, high-quality mental health care in North Derbyshire.

Councillor Barry Dyke set to be sworn in as Chesterfield’s latest Mayor

Cllr Barry Dyke and Marie Dyke.

Councillor Barry Dyke is set to become Chesterfield’s 384th Mayor and will lead a celebration parade on Saturday 17 May.

Councillor Dyke will be sworn in as civic head for the borough at Chesterfield Borough Council’s Annual Council Meeting on Wednesday 14 May.

His wife, Marie Dyke, will take up the role of Mayoress. Councillor Shirley Niblock will be appointed as Deputy Mayor with her husband, Paul Niblock, serving as Deputy Consort.

Chesterfield residents can come and celebrate Chesterfield’s new Mayor at the annual Civic Parade which will take place from 10.15am on Saturday 17 May in the town centre. The parade will include a procession through the town and a service at the Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire).

Councillor Barry Dyke said: “I’m honoured to take on this role and look forward to meeting members of our community right across the borough. I can’t wait to get started on fundraising for the three incredible charities that I have chosen to support through this year’s Mayor’s Appeal.”

The Mayor’s Appeal will be raising funds for Poolsbrook Social Welfare Scheme, Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust Charity, and Staveley Armed Forces and Veterans Appreciation.

The Civic Parade is an opportunity to celebrate the new Mayor. The parade will leave from the Town Hall on Rose Hill at 10.40am and will head through the town centre to the Church of St Mary and All Saints (Crooked Spire) where there will be a service at 11am.  At noon the parade will return to the Town Hall.

There will be several dignitaries from across Derbyshire in attendance at the parade, along with Aldermen and former Mayors of Chesterfield, and groups such as the Royal British Legion and uniformed youth organisations.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the parade and church service, with seats being allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Councillor Barry Dyke and Marie Dyke replace Councillor Jenny Flood and Heather Beardsmore who served as Mayor and Mayoress for the 2024 to 2025 civic year.

Bridge Help welcomes ‘driven and career-focused’ Daisy Wilson to the business development team

Daisy Wilson, BDM, Bridge Help - landscape

Chesterfield-based Bridge Help has further strengthened its Business Development Team with the appointment of Daisy Wilson, an impressively driven and career-focused former private bank Relationship Support Manager.

Ahead of joining Bridge Help as a Business Development Manager, Daisy a Relationship Support Manager at Cater Allen Private Bank, part of Santander Bank following the completion of her degree at Sheffield Hallam University.

She now joins the four-strong, all-female Business Development Manager team led by Head of Sales, Katie Snodden. Daisy’s appointment to the fast-growing short term commercial finance provider, is a further reflection of Bridge Help’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting diversity in the finance industry.

After joining Santander as a call handler in the fraud team, she was promoted to a Relationship Support Manager role in the private banking division and it was in this role that Daisy discovered her enthusiasm for business development.

“From the moment I heard about the opportunity with Bridge Help, I just knew it was a perfect fit,” said Daisy. “The flexible and family-focused culture at Bridge Help was a huge pull, but it also met my passion for prospecting and being in a sales-driven environment which I discovered I loved during my last role.”

Daisy is now looking forward to making her mark in the bridging sector: “I know this is a fast-paced, challenging role, but I want to prove what’s possible. I’m excited to set myself ambitious targets, exceed them, and help grow the business. I also want to set a great example to my young daughter and show her, that with hard work, anything is achievable.”

Outside work Daisy, who lives in Staveley, leads a busy home life with her daughter, a dog, three rabbits, three guinea pigs, and a horse. An avid equestrian, Daisy is currently preparing for her first show jumping competition.

Bridge Help CEO Chris Sellars said: “With big targets for growth in 2025, I am delighted to welcome Daisy to the team. She’s shown great resilience, focus and a real hunger to succeed not only in life but her career. These are all qualities that will serve her well as a BDM at Bridge Help. We’re delighted to have her onboard and look forward to supporting her growth and success here at Bridge Help.”

Daisy will be working from Bridge Help’s Head Office in Chesterfield and is looking forward to connecting with brokers and borrowers to help them navigate bridging finance.

BSP Consulting celebrates framework successes

CARL HILTON MD of BSP Consulting - head and shoulders

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineer BSP Consulting has been awarded a place on the Eastern Procurement Development Consultancy Services Framework.

The framework is for services that will be undertaken predominantly for local authorities, housing providers and public sector organisations mainly across Eastern Procurement’s core geographical area – the East of England.

Lasting for four years, the framework has an estimated value of approximately £17m.

At the same time, BSP Consulting has been appointed onto a new consultancy framework for Newark and Sherwood District Council for Civil and Structural Engineering Services.

BSP Consulting has been working with Newark and Sherwood District Council on its Housing Revenue Account new build programme for the last four years and as part of the new consultancy framework will continue to deliver civil and structural services across various projects including HRA new build.

BSP Consulting managing director Carl Hilton said: “We are very proud to have been appointed onto the Eastern Procurement Development Consultancy Services Framework and the Newark and Sherwood District Council Framework For Civil and Structural Engineering Services.

“The re-appointment of BSP Consulting onto the Newark and Sherwood District Council framework is a ringing endorsement of our commitment to our clients and the services that we offer to both the public and private sectors.

“BSP is one of the largest independent civil and structural engineering consultancies in the East Midlands and we have extensive experience of working with local authorities, housing providers and public sector organisations.

“We look forward to offering our services and expertise to support investment in these sectors in the future.”

Eastern Procurement’s Development Consultancy Framework is a one-stop shop for development consultancy services in the East of England, including architecture, planning, Employers Agent / QS, engineering, and clerk of works. Designed for social housing, simplicity and value, EP’s fully managed process ensures compliant, cost-effective delivery from selection to project completion. Members benefit from direct appointments, mini-competitions, expert support, and ongoing performance monitoring.

BSP Consulting, which is based in Nottingham and has offices in Derby, Leicester and Sheffield, was one of ten companies awarded a place on the Eastern Procurement Development Consultancy Services Framework.

The appointment marks the 17th framework that BSP currently has a place on.

BSP Consulting is an award-winning firm that operates across the UK, offering civil engineering, structural engineering, transport engineering, geotechnical and environmental engineering. The company works across all sectors including housing, student accommodation, commercial, industrial, health, education, senior living, retail and heritage.

For more information about BSP Consulting visit www.bsp-consulting.co.uk

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Final chance to have your say on new Local Plan

There is still time for residents and businesses to have their say on the new Chesterfield Borough Local Plan. The online consultation is open until 5pm on Friday, 23rd May.

The Local Plan is a crucial part of the planning process. It sets out how many homes and commercial properties will be built over the next 15 years, and where.

It identifies how sustainable infrastructure can be provided to meet the needs of existing and new residents. This includes school places, GP surgeries, leisure facilities, roads, and green spaces.

The Local Plan will implement updates to the national planning policy. Changes include the new housing targets introduced since the current Local Plan was adopted.

People do not have to respond to every element of the consultation. They can choose to highlight issues important to them.

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and environment, said: “This consultation is an opportunity to share these views with our planning team and potentially have them incorporated.

“Telling us what you think will help create a plan everyone can get behind and that building across the borough is both sustainable and appropriate.”

As well as setting out where development should happen, the Local Plan will include policies to guide the planning process. It also plays a key role in tackling the climate emergency.

Councillor Martin Stone, said: “We aim to become a carbon-neutral borough by 2050. The Local Plan will play a key part in ensuring we can meet this target. Your feedback can help ensure we include policies and identify ways to support nature, improve biodiversity and encourage housing to be more efficient and produce less emissions.”

To find out more and share your views online or in writing, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/new-local-plan

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Luxury salon Feather & Fern brings glamour to Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield’s newest and largest luxury hair salon, Feather & Fern is officially open, with owners Sara Fern and Kerry Featherstone promising clients ‘a warm and relaxing environment with a touch of glamour’.

Feather & Fern, has opened on Knifesmithgate in Unit 1 at Elder Way, following the agreement of a 10-year lease on the prominent 1,636 sq. ft unit in February.

In just nine weeks, the space has been transformed into a 10-chair hair and beauty salon.

This is the first business for owners Kerry and Sarah. Speaking about their journey to business ownership, Kerry said: “The excitement has overtaken the stress of creating a brand new hair salon. It’s been an incredible, fun journey and we are really excited to be finally open and welcoming clients to the amazing space Sara and I have created.”

Feather & Fern boasts six stylists, a beauty and cosmetics specialist, along with two apprentices.

The opening of Feather & Fern marks another exciting tenant for the former Co-Op department store in Chesterfield town centre which has been transformed into a Premier Inn hotel and eight street level units by Jomast.

Feather & Fern is located in what was the electrical department of the Co-Op located on Knifesmithgate. The business joins HotPod Yoga and Bottle & Thyme as tenants of Chesterfield’s newest leisure quarter.

The opening of Feather & Fern means that all three corner units at Elder Way are now fully occupied. Four street level units remain on Elder Way and just one unit remains available on Knifesmithgate. Developer Jomast reports strong interest in the remaining Knifesmithgate unit.

Welcoming Kerry and Sara to Elder Way, Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “The salon is stunning, and I wish them much success for the future of their new business. Feather & Fern is a fantastic addition to the vibrant community we are building at Elder Way.”

Elder Way continues to go from strength-to-strength since welcoming its first tenant to the street level units last year. Last month, the 92-bed hotel, which is located on the upper floors of the development, was named as the Hotel of the Year by Premier Inn.

Investment continues to be made across Chesterfield town centre including the purchase of the former Marks and Spencers store, the Spread Eagle reopening and infrastructure works in the Market Square.

If you are interested in commercial space in and around Chesterfield town centre enquire here.

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Chesterfield showcases £2 billion regeneration vision at UKREiiF 2025

Chesterfield is set to unveil its ambitious £2 billion regeneration programme at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds from May 20–22, positioning itself as one of the most exciting growth areas in the East Midlands.

Chesterfield’s presence will focus on a wide range of investment-ready opportunities across housing, town centre regeneration, green industries, advanced manufacturing, retail, leisure, and tourism.

Attendees can explore Chesterfield’s £2 billion transformation journey, learn more about current developments, and connect with decision-makers directly.

The borough is a key player in the East Midlands’ advanced manufacturing sector, anchored by the highly successful Markham Vale enterprise zone at Junction 29a of the M1. Home to dozens of businesses and built with infrastructure to scale, Markham Vale exemplifies the strategic commercial opportunity that Chesterfield is keen to promote.

Further strengthening the borough’s investment case is its inclusion in the East Midlands Investment Zone, with two sites at Staveley offering financial incentives for companies in green technologies and advanced manufacturing.

Chesterfield’s town centre is undergoing a major transformation, with investment creating vibrant opportunities for new homes, leisure, retail, hotel developments, and modern office space. These enhancements are not only improving the quality of life for residents but also attracting a new wave of businesses and visitors.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Chesterfield’s regeneration story is one of ambition, collaboration, and real momentum. We’re delivering well-connected, future-proofed developments that unlock value across multiple sectors—from housing and advanced manufacturing to town centre regeneration and the visitor economy.

“With a proactive local authority, strategic location, and a shared commitment to inclusive growth, we’re creating an environment where investors and businesses can thrive. We are ready to welcome your business.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Chesterfield is on the rise. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a wave of transformation—and we’re just getting started.

“Our borough is becoming a magnet for innovation, sustainable growth, and talent. From housing and advanced manufacturing to retail and hospitality, we’re inviting investors and partners to be part of Chesterfield’s next exciting chapter.”

Destination Chesterfield will join a united delegation in the brand-new East Midlands Pavilion, which will present a bold new vision for inclusive growth across the region.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward will lead the East Midlands team, which also includes the leadership team from the East Midlands Combined County Authority, Destination Chesterfield, Marketing Derby, Invest in Nottingham, Invest in Derbyshire and East Midlands Freeport.

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

Iconic Chesterfield department store snapped up by developer

Nottingham-based ALB Group has acquired the former Marks and Spencer department store in one of Chesterfield town centre’s most prominent buildings.

The developer stepped in to make the deal for an undisclosed fee before the 68,000 sq ft premises, comprising two adjacent buildings, was due to be offered at auction, for a guide price of over £3m.

Marks and Spencer vacated the store in High Street, Chesterfield, over two years ago when it relocated to nearby Ravenside Retail Park.

The premises is distributed over five floors and occupies a prime location next door to Primark and opposite Chesterfield’s historic open air market, in Market Place, which has been undergoing a major refurbishment.

ALB Group is currently in advanced negotiations with a major retailer interested in taking up part of the ground floor of the building. The firm is seeking additional tenants for the remaining ground floor commercial space.

The upper floors are expected to be either residential, office space or commercial use pending further consultations with ALB’s architect John Morgan, of Nottingham-based architect Leonard Design.

Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said: “We’re delighted to have secured the deal to purchase this magnificent property.”

Oliver Marshall, director of FHP Property Consultants, which is marketing the building on behalf of ALB Group, said: “While we are close to securing a major tenant for part of the ground floor of the building, we are seeking additional businesses to take up the remaining space.

“There will be up to 10,000 square feet available, which could be let to a single tenant or carved up as appropriate to sizes ranging from around 3,000 square feet. All interest will be considered, whether it’s from retail businesses, leisure, cafés or restaurants.”

ALB Group, which has gained a reputation over the past few years for regenerating buildings in town and city centres across the UK, recently transformed another large property in Chesterfield town centre just a stone’s throw from the M&S building.

Last year, the developer launched 55 high-spec apartments, built on the upper floors of Burlington House, in Burlington Street, replacing the once run-down vacant office space.

ALB Group has become known for town centre revitalisation through a combination of cheaper, more flexible lease contracts with businesses and bringing the vacant upper storeys of commercial buildings back into use, largely through the creation of much-needed residential units.

The company has transformed high streets in places including Ipswich, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Huddersfield and Birkenhead, delivering significantly increased footfall in each of those areas.

ALB Group is known for its regeneration of the Bridlesmith Gate area of Nottingham, where it purchased 14 buildings and has successfully given the once-struggling city centre location a vibe that has been likened to London’s trendy Carnaby Street.

Arran said: “Chesterfield is definitely on the up. Like all town and city centres it has suffered from the increase in online shopping, the cost-of-living crisis and the relocation of larger chains to out-of-town retail parks.

“But the mood is shifting in a positive direction, and we hope to be able to provide a catalyst to that now that we have acquired one of the town’s best-located and most historic buildings.

“We can guarantee that we will help to breathe new life into this area, just like we did with Burlington House.”

Businesses interested in letting the available space on the ground floor of the building can contact Oliver Marshall on 07887 787885 or email oliver@fhp.co.uk

FHP Property Consultants supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield’s Central Technology expands with latest acquisition

Chesterfield’s Central Technology has announced the acquisition of yoko:10, marking a significant milestone in the growth and evolution of the group.

This strategic move strengthens its position as a leading provider of consultative technological and business solutions and underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Over the past eight years, yoko:10 has built a strong reputation for delivering Microsoft Consultancy services across the UK. Their expertise spans SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Purview Data Governance & Data Security, Copilot, Intranets, Viva Engage and Power Platform, providing services for planning, deployment, governance, and adoption of Microsoft cloud technologies to help businesses optimise their digital workplace.

As part of this acquisition, yoko:10 will take office space in each of the Central Technology offices and will become the Microsoft Consultancy provider for the Central Technology Group. The legal aspects of the acquisition were expertly managed by fellow Chesterfield Champion organisation, BRM, setting the foundations for a smooth and efficient integration process.

Rob Longden, Managing Director at Central Technology, remarks: “yoko:10’s values and approach align seamlessly with ours, making this integration a natural step forward. If you’re curious, their name translates to ‘sharing best practice’, which reflects the yoko:10 approach to consultancy.

“The combined strength of yoko:10 and Central Technology will enable us to expand our consultative capabilities. Together, we are positioned to serve as a single point of contact for our clients’ technology needs, providing seamless and comprehensive solutions supported by our network of regional offices.”

CEO smiles to colleagues across table during meeting

This acquisition marks a significant step in Central Technology’s ongoing growth strategy and serves as a foundation for further business expansion. With yoko:10 now part of Central Technology Group, the business is well-equipped to meet evolving client needs and drive innovation in the technology sector. It reflects the long-term vision of building a strong organisation capable of adapting to any challenges and opportunities ahead.

Central Technology supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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RMS Locotec announces Chesterfield move, strengthening town’s rail sector

RMS Locotec, the industrial railway specialist, has consolidated its leasing and maintenance operations in Chesterfield – home to Europe’s largest cluster of rail related businesses.

The move brings together teams and assets from multiple locations into an existing transport and engineering facility less than 500 yards from the grave of George Stephenson, the father of industrial railways.

RMS Locotec has also appointed Lauren Parker to the new role of General Manager. Lauren, who joined RMS in 2010, will now be responsible for growing the business, strengthening relationships with existing customers and expanding into new markets.

RMS Locotec leases locomotives, provides rolling stock maintenance and engineering support, as well as infrastructure services to customers at depots, ports, terminals and quarries across Britain.

Lauren Parker, General Manager of RMS Locotec, said: “I’m really looking forward to deepening our relationships with existing RMS customers, so we can help meet both their current and future needs. I also want to expand the business by sharing our industrial railway expertise and capabilities with new clients.

“As we consolidate our business in Chesterfield, we will also be looking to play an active role in organisations that promote both our sector and the strategic value of industrial railways.”

RMS Locotec currently has 16 shunting locomotives on-lease with a variety of passenger and freight operators, as well as with customers in the logistics, shipping and aggregate sectors. The business also has a further six locomotives available for spot, temporary or long-term hire.

RMS Locotec infrastructure teams inspect and maintain track assets at more than eight locations across the UK.

Chesterfield is home to a skilled rail sector, and is investing in facilities to strengthen its local talent pool. This includes the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), currently under development next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your business here.

 

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Chesterfield entrepreneur embarks on new business challenge at 77

At 77 years old, a Chesterfield entrepreneur is proving age is but a number, embarking on a new non-profit business journey.

After a lifetime in Local Government and 17 years in retirement, Keith Wood has decided to “rise again from the ashes” as The Yorkshire Fenix, starting up a range of not-for-profit ventures on a business basis in our town.

Yorkshire Fenix Enterprises will specialise in several services, including customised work and leisure wear featuring unique designs, creative writing, public speaking and local venue brokering.

As a creative writer, Keith’s first local historical novel features Chesterfield in the mid-18th Century and is due for release in May. As if this is not enough to fill his time, Keith also works with Dr Elizabeth Rosario, GP and coach, who helps individuals do their best for ageing parents so that they can enjoy life again.

Keith’s philosophy is to embrace new technology whilst still retaining old-fashioned values of good service and value for money. All profits are set to be donated to local charities, which Keith is now inviting to become involved.

Speaking about his business journey so far in our town, Keith commented: “Networking has helped me greatly, and I think this is the way ahead, especially for start-up businesses. I have been helped and encouraged by Caroline Moore from Securit GB – The Speed Shop, a print company, who supply my customised clothing and business cards, operating out of The Glass Yard, Sheffield Road.

“I would also like to thank Ruth Postins, Façade Consultant in Modern Methods of Construction, Kerry Lancaster of Shine On Valeting Services and Patrick and Meg, the new owners of Ye Royal Oak who have helped in my literary ventures… The pub actually features in my novel!

“These people have all freely offered to help me set up my business, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Keith adds: “My adopted home town has a lot to offer, lots of historic buildings to discover, a fabulous library, good local leisure amenities like the Winding Wheel and friendly residents.

“It’s a traditional market town close to beautiful countryside in the middle of England with decent transport links and an ambitious business sector under the banner of Destination Chesterfield.”

Keith is currently constructing his website, queries can be directed to him via email: keith@yorkshirefenix.com.

Looking for support to get your business idea off the ground here in Chesterfield? Find out more about the support available here. 

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Entrepreneurship and high growth set to benefit from partnership between Chamber and University

East Midlands Chamber has entered an exclusive new strategic partnership with the University of Derby centred on entrepreneurship and high growth.

The collaboration will see the University, already a long-term strategic partner of the Chamber, work together on areas like decarbonisation, innovation, joint bidding for public sector business support and development of funded programmes for firms in Derby and Derbyshire.

The University of Derby is headline partner of Generation Next – the Chamber-powered network for inspiring and building the confidence and connections of young professionals and future leaders in the 18-35 age group.

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “Entrepreneurship and high growth go hand in hand, and as a region known for innovation, making and producing, it makes sense to turbocharge those strengths.

“Having been a strategic partner of the Chamber for some time, and as headline partner of Generation Next, I’m delighted to expand on this productive relationship. The University of Derby is well established for its leading research, its approach to decarbonisation and for being an advocate of business growth.

“I’m certain this new chapter of our collaboration will bring even greater benefit to Derby, Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands.”

The University of Derby Associate Provost of Industry Engagement Matt Snowden said: “We are proud to have a longstanding relationship with the Chamber and this new partnership is set to strengthen this even further.

“This relationship is incredibly valuable to the University, as it provides us with opportunities to connect with Chamber businesses and create avenues to employability for students through placements and internships. It also provides a platform for the University to work collaboratively in supporting the regional economy by exchanging skills, fostering innovation and providing essential business support.”

East Midlands Chamber and University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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