Development

NeoDyne expands its Chesterfield office

30th September 2025

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

26th September 2025

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

25th September 2025

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

Chesterfield Market Place transformation welcomes shoppers

18th September 2025

Chesterfield Market traders are celebrating the completion of major regeneration work to revitalise the main square.

The transformation has delivered a vibrant and welcoming space, featuring new feature paving, restored historic cobbles, bespoke market stalls with traditional coverings, upgraded facilities, and stylish street furniture. These improvements create an inviting environment where visitors can shop, relax, and enjoy the heart of Chesterfield.

The redesigned layout offers wider, more open avenues for shoppers to explore, along with a new central flexible space designed to host a variety of events throughout the year.

It is the first major area to be completed as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project.

The first full day of trading in Market Place took place today. (Thursday 18 September.)

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is the start of a new chapter for our town centre, with the historic market at its heart. The improvements we’ve made will ensure we can attract great traders and more customers to Chesterfield for many years to come.

“We have one of the finest and oldest markets in the country and some of the most reasonable stall prices too. This coupled with a range of town centre events and activities will help draw to crowds in.

“There is still more work to be done across the town centre and the next phase of works in New Square will see that area completely transformed to create a flexible events space that can support markets on busy days like during our flea market but can also be used to support community events, festivals and much more.”

Wendy Bailey, who sells Antiques on Chesterfield’s Thursday Flea Market, said: “The new stalls are fantastic, they provide a great space which we can trade from in all weathers, are built to a really high standard and we’ve had lots of great compliments from customers about them. With the upgrades across the square the Market is looking the best it has for many years, and it creates a really welcoming environment for both traders and customers.”

The works have been carried out on behalf of the council by Thomas Bow.

John Allen, Construction Director at Thomas Bow, said: “We are delighted to have completed phase two of this important project for Chesterfield. It has been a privilege to work collaboratively alongside the council and local traders to help create a space that the whole community can be proud of whilst maintaining access to the key area of the town. In addition to our work in the market place we have made a positive impact in the local communities through our social value programme alongside this scheme. We look forward to continuing this successful project into phase three.”

The next major phase of the market squares transformation is now underway, with contractor working on the lower half of New Square behind the Market Hall. All businesses and properties based on New Square will be accessible throughout the works.

This will see New Square transformed into a flexible events space that can support traditional markets on busy trading days but also host community events, festivals and much more.

Work in New Square is set to fully completed in Spring 2026.

Regeneration work is also ongoing in Rykneld Square where a greener space is being created that will provide views of the iconic Crooked Spire.

A future phase of the town centre regeneration project will focus on the transformation of Corporation Street to provide an enhanced welcome to the town centre for visitors and complement the ongoing refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall, home to the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum. This work is expected to be completed in time for the building reopening in 2026.

The project is funded through an almost £20 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. With the funding split between town centre regeneration works and the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall.

To find out more about the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise

Find out more about upcoming markets and events in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Half term, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions driving growth, recognition, and safety

11th September 2025

Chesterfield Champions are marking achievements in branding, national recognition, and skills development.

Addooco launches its next phase with a new brand

Addooco, specialists in private cloud, connectivity, and managed IT solutions, has unveiled a new brand identity. They developed the rebrand in collaboration with fellow Chesterfield Champion, Defeye Creative.

The rebrand represents a step in Addooco’s growth from a regional IT partner to a nationally recognised provider of infrastructure and digital transformation services. Addooco has reorganised its services into six categories: Complete, Grid, Clear Skies, Works, Secure, and Tech Team. A redesigned website is now live at Addooco — Make IT Happen

The project introduced messaging such as “Make It Happen” and “Engineers of Change” to reflect Addooco’s practical approach to IT solutions.

“This wasn’t just a design refresh; it’s a statement of who we’ve become,” said Richard Walters, CEO at Addooco. “We’ve grown with our clients and evolved with the market, and now we have a brand that reflects our ambition without losing our approachability.”

Defeye’s Director, Matt Pritchard, added: “Helping Addooco evolve visually and strategically was a privilege. We’ve worked with them for years and saw this as a chance to tell a bigger story, one of growth, ambition, and local excellence.”

Both Addooco and Defeye are proud members of Destination Chesterfield’s Chesterfield Champions network. Their collaboration highlights how local businesses can raise regional and national profiles.

East Midlands Chamber shortlisted for National Chamber of the Year

The British Chambers of Commerce has shortlisted East Midlands Chamber as a finalist for the “Chamber of the Year” award 2025. This is the highest recognition available to accredited chambers across the UK.

The Chamber, which supports businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire, has delivered a wide-ranging programme in recent years. This includes the £4.6m UKSPF-funded Accelerator project, which since 2023 has:

Supported more than 13,600 firms
Secured £9.7m in funding, grants, and loans
Helped safeguard or create 1,101 jobs
Produced decarbonisation plans for 1,093 businesses
Assisted 2,607 companies in improving productivity
Supported 196 exporters and 143 start-ups
Helped 400 SMEs adopt new technologies

“UK Chamber of the Year is the highest level of recognition a chamber of commerce in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland can get, so to be announced as a finalist is tremendous,” said Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber.

“Being shortlisted is a testament to the sheer dedication and hard work of the East Midlands Chamber team, underlining their commitment to championing the business community every day and leading growth across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire.”

The British Chambers of Commerce will announce the winner in October.

DBCP strengthens building safety with new inspector

DBCP is the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. It has appointed Registered Building Inspector Luke Merrey to its team.

Luke’s background in property sales and lettings adds sector-wide insight. He holds 2A Registered Status with the Building Safety Competence Foundation, and has a Distinction in the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying. He is close to completing his Level 5 Diploma and is working towards 2F status.

His responsibilities will include plan checking, site inspections, advising applicants, and maintaining detailed records to ensure developments comply with building regulations.

“I’m thrilled to start my new role and continue my journey in Building Control. I wish I’d found out about Building Control when I was at school,” said Luke. “I am genuinely passionate about all areas of the sector. Seeing my knowledge grow through the LABC Academy Scheme has been amazing, and I am delighted to bring my learning and experience to architects, builders, and property owners throughout High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, added: “We are delighted to have Luke on board. He has a deep understanding of the sector from both an inspector and a property manager perspective.”

Luke’s appointment highlights DBCP’s ongoing investment in qualified professionals. The industry is facing a national skills shortage following stricter regulations being introduced after the Grenfell tragedy.

For more information on how to become one of our Chesterfield Champions click here.

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

Travelodge invests in Chesterfield as part of national expansion strategy

9th September 2025

Travelodge has announced the acquisition of a Chesterfield hotel, reinforcing its commitment to growth and rebranding across the UK.

The hotel, formerly operated under the Ibis brand, is one of four newly acquired sites by Travelodge, alongside locations in Preston, Bradford Shipley and Cardiff. The move is part of the company’s wider UK strategy to convert existing hotels into Travelodge-branded properties, bringing the total number of rebranded acquisitions this year to 16.

Located within walking distance of Chesterfield town centre and railway station, the 86-room hotel offers convenient access to local attractions including the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield Museum, and the nearby Peak District. It is also just a short drive from Chatsworth House, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers.

The hotel will undergo a full refurbishment later this year as part of Travelodge’s multi-million pound upgrade programme. The refit will introduce the brand’s latest design standards, including a contemporary reception area, next-generation rooms, and enhanced interiors focused on comfort and functionality.

“These acquisitions are another strong addition to our UK portfolio and demonstrate the continued momentum behind our rebrand-led growth strategy,” said Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge. “We’re seeing increasing opportunities to convert well-located, existing hotels into Travelodges.

Travelodge’s investment reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s visitor economy and its strategic location as a base to visit the Peak District. The company has identified over 300 further locations across the UK for future expansion, with Chesterfield’s inclusion underscoring its appeal to national operators.

The rebrand is expected to enhance the town’s accommodation offering, supporting the town’s wider ambitions to grow tourism and business travel.

This investment showcases confidence in Chesterfield town centre, alongside other recent investments for residential, commercial and retail activity, including:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Industrial park in Chesterfield to be auctioned

8th September 2025

Derbyshire County Council’s 29,000 sq ft Cobnar Wood Close industrial units development in Chesterfield is to go up for auction this month with a £1.35m guide price.

SDL Property Auctions, part of Eddisons, has been appointed to sell the 12-unit development, which is home to businesses such as industrial pumps distributor Applied Pumps, on behalf of the local authority. The units will be included in the auctioneer’s next live-streamed property auction on 25 September.

Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, which currently generate a total rental income of £160,000, set to rise to £170,000 next year, are located next to Chesterfield Trading Estate on the A61, four miles from Chesterfield and 10 miles from Sheffield.

Andrew Parker, partner and auctioneer at SDL Property Auctions said: “Like many local authorities, Derbyshire County Council is reviewing its property portfolio as part of wider financial pressures. Cobnar Wood is a solid industrial investment with a healthy mix of tenants, and its location close to Chesterfield and Sheffield makes it particularly attractive.

“We’re seeing strong demand for well-located industrial space across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire and, with rental income already secured and due to increase, this site is well placed to benefit from that trend. We expect it to generate keen interest at auction later this month.”

For more information about Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, or to register to bid remotely online, by phone or by proxy, visit sdlauctions.co.uk.

Discover more about available commercial property in Chesterfield

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Seven ways to grow your business this September

4th September 2025

Ready to get back on it and grow your business?

Hopefully, you feel refreshed after a well-deserved summer break. Now, it’s time to accelerate growth, reconnect with customers and plan for the final quarter.

September is a time to refocus and reignite your strategy for the rest of this year and beyond.

But you’re not alone in this journey. Chesterfield’s vibrant business community offers a wide range of support to help local companies thrive.

Whether you’re a start-up or an established company, an independent trader or a global exporter, we want to ensure you have the tools, resources, and connections to achieve your goals.

Here are seven ways to grow your business in Chesterfield this autumn.

1. Innovate and make efficiencies with advice and funding

Keen to innovate but unsure where to start? Get in touch for a free one-to-one business review from the Chesterfield Innovation Support Programme, covering next steps, funding advice and workshop recommendations.

If you’ve wanted to update your tech or processes for a while, but held off due to funding, now is the time to apply for growth vouchers through the Derbyshire Accelerator project. The funding offers up to £2,000 of specialist training or consultancy support in any area where you can demonstrate that new functionality or processes will support growth in your business.

Some examples of where you might benefit include:

CRM
AI
Websites and E-commerce
Finance
HR & Employment Law
Leadership & Management
Marketing Strategy and Operations
Sales and Social Media

High-performing businesses can also access support and funding for innovation (and talent) through the High Growth Accelerator project. Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses must have achieved at least 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over each of the past three years.

Chesterfield Innovation Support Programme is operated by Chesterfield Borough Council with funding from East Midlands Combined County Authority. Accelerator projects are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by East Midlands Chamber. Submit your details to be referred to the most appropriate expert for your business.

2. Boost your talent with the latest knowledge about skills

Chesterfield’s Skills Brokerage Service offers free advice to identify workforce development needs. Services include:

Assessing training and skills gaps
Accessing funding
Securing apprenticeship support
Developing talent pipelines

Some of the current courses with funding available include digital skills and marketing, management, team leading, English and Maths, green skills, and property and construction.

High-growth businesses can access talent grants to help grow sustainably at scale. Support includes a range of high-growth workshops and forums. To be eligible, Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses must have achieved at least 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over each of the past three years.

Submit your details for a referral to the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service.

3. Make global trade easier with advice, support and funding

The Chamber has launched the East Midlands International Trade Network, with the first local meeting taking place in Clowne in autumn 2025. The chaired forum includes support, advice from industry experts and peers, and opportunities to shape the development and delivery of the Export Accelerator project.

The first forum meeting follows the success of the Export Accelerator project, which launched in the spring and has so far helped almost 230 businesses navigate the complexities of international trade. The project supports initial research, the launch of a product or service to a new overseas market and more.

“The Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey for the East Midlands revealed a 10% drop in overseas sales and 3% in orders,” says Deputy Chief Executire, Diane Beresford, “which really underlines the extent of the challenges when exporting overseas so it’s no surprise that take-up of the Export Accelerator grants and training bursaries has been so high.

“We have some brilliant examples of businesses tapping into consultancy support in areas such as CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) and attending tradeshows as far afield as Japan. If they haven’t already, I’d urge businesses to sign up for the forum meetings in September to find out about the wide range of services to boost their overseas trade.”

Grant funding of up to £8,000 is available for specialist consultancy, overseas trade show visits, salaries and equipment. Along with fully funded workshops and webinars, there is the opportunity to apply for a £2,000 bursary, which can be used to attend one of the Chamber’s International Trade training courses, including its flagship BCC-Accredited International Trade Operations and Procedures qualification.

The Accelerator project is delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). Submit your details for a referral to a Chamber business adviser.

4. Attend business events and workshops

Businesses across Chesterfield are keen to support others by sharing their knowledge and expertise by hosting workshops, webinars and events in the area. In addition, East Midlands Chamber, Chesterfield Borough Council, and the University of Derby host regular events across a wide range of topics, all aimed at supporting business development and growth.

Keep up-to-date on all the latest business events in our area at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/events/

Is your business hosting an event in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire? We would love to hear from you to help spread the word. Email info@chesterfield.co.uk with the details.

5. Join our community of Chesterfield Champions

Do you love Chesterfield? Do you want to support our town’s growth whilst growing your own business? Consider becoming a Chesterfield Champion to help promote our place as a destination to invest, work, live and visit.

As well as being a CSR opportunity, becoming a Chesterfield Champion offers marketing and relationship-building opportunities. It includes a business profile, events and media opportunities.

If you’re passionate about supporting the town, email Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk to learn more.

Need specific support or advice to grow your business? Our directory of Chesterfield Champions provides details to bolster your business. It includes businesses, consultants and service providers which specialise in the following sectors:

Professional services, business advice & HR
Skills, education and recruitment
Visitor economy
Creative and digital
Healthcare and public
Charities
Financial and legal
Food, drink and retail
Export, wholesale and distribution
Manufacturing and engineering
Property and construction
Marketing, media and PR

So, if you need support or a particular area of expertise, we recommend you choose one of Chesterfield’s friendly, down-to-earth and honest businesses. We’re all in it together.

6. Promote your business through awards

Gain recognition by entering local, regional, or national awards. We are keen to celebrate success stories and promote award-winning businesses.

Whether you excel in innovation, customer service, or sustainability, awards showcase your strengths. Explore award opportunities and promote your business via the dedicated Chesterfield awards page.

Did you know there is a business in Chesterfield dedicated to supporting companies with award applications and nominations? Find out more at: https://pureawards.co.uk/

7. Share your successes in local media

Another way you can promote your business is by sharing your latest successes in the form of a press release or news story.

Has your business recently expanded or moved to a new premises? Maybe you have taken on new staff members or apprentices? If your business has experienced growth, launched an innovative new product or collaborated with another local business, we want to hear about it!

Please submit your press release or details of your positive news to Alex.Baddley@chesterfield.co.uk.

You can also submit news online to the Derbyshire Times for consideration by visiting the YourWorld website.

Wondering how to structure your press release, or wondering what information to include? Take a look at this useful guide.

Get in touch

For more information on the topics mentioned, email info@chesterfield.co.uk or complete our form for a referral to the most appropriate support.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Skills, UncategorisedTagged in business funding, business grants, business news, business support, Chesterfield business advice, Chesterfield business funding, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, Chesterfield business support 2025, Chesterfield skills support, Destination Chesterfield

Planning approved for Eyres building redevelopment

3rd September 2025

Plans to redevelop the former Eyres furniture store in Chesterfield town centre have been approved.

A local developer will transform the former store into 20 apartments and 10 commercial units, starting from 500 sq ft.

The Eyres building holds deep historical value in Chesterfield. The developers aim to honour its legacy while giving the space a fresh purpose.

Jamal Khan, Lettings Director at Highgates, said: “We’re proud to market the ground-floor units. As an independent business, we understand how vital it is to support local entrepreneurs and help them grow in Chesterfield.”

“This mixed-use design makes smarter use of the site and helps build a vibrant, sustainable local economy. New residents will live directly above revitalised shops, creating a lively community hub.”

“This project shows strong confidence in Chesterfield’s property market. Demand remains high for well-located homes and retail spaces. With attractive lease terms and incentives, the development offers a great opportunity for local businesses.”

Work is expected to start shortly to prepare the retail units at the former Eyres Furniture Store.

For more details on the available units, contact Highgates Sales & Lettings at info@highgatesestates.co.uk or call 0114 312 4994.

This latest announcement follows a range of investments and openings in Chesterfield town centre recently, which include:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield Town Centre

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

DBCP apprenticeship programme grows future talent

27th August 2025

A former teaching assistant from Sheffield has taken her first steps towards a new career after joining DBCP as part of the company’s successful apprenticeship programme.

Shannon Edwards-Owen, 23, is starting her role as a Level 2 Business Administration Apprentice with the Chesterfield-based provider of building control services.

The former Parkside School student previously worked in education. She completed a foundation degree in Working with Young People and Families at Sheffield Hallam University. However, she decided it was time for a change and began looking for opportunities to develop her skills in a business setting.

“The apprenticeship with DBCP offers me the chance to build a career in a business environment, which is something I have become increasingly curious about,” Shannon said. “You make career choices at 16 which don’t always meet the needs of the adult you become.”

As part of her 18-month apprenticeship, Shannon will spend one day a week at Chesterfield College. She will spend the rest of her time gaining valuable workplace experience with DBCP’s busy Business Administration team, based at Dunston.

“We were impressed with Shannon’s CV. Beyond her qualifications, she’s shown an exceptional work ethic across multiple sectors since leaving school.” Said David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager. “We can see that she has what it takes to balance work and training. She’s precisely the kind of talent we’re proud to nurture at DBCP.”

Previously in her career, Shannon has worked in education, retail, and hospitality since she was 16 years old. She is no stranger to learning new processes.

Following on, Shannon said: “I could tell immediately that DBCP had a positive, engaging team and a history of supporting career-entry apprentices. The interview was a great experience. I was really encouraged to know how well other apprentices had done and to see first-hand the roles they now have within the business. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career with DBCP.”

DBCP has built a strong reputation for supporting and investing in apprentices. Several of its team members began their careers through the same scheme.

Apprentice Building Control Surveyor Charlotte Gladwin won the title of LABC Newcomer of the Year in 2024. She has already gained recognition for her achievements. Charlotte is now in the running for Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year. The Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025 will present the award.

Additionally, Harvey Ellis, another DBCP apprentice, is also a finalist competing for Higher Apprentice of the Year. Adding to the celebrations, DBCP has made the shortlist for SME Employer of the Year.

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards will reveal the winners on Thursday 2 October.

To read more on our successful champions nominated at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, please click here.

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team at www.dbcp.co.uk or call 0333 880 2000.

To find out more about apprenticeships and current vacancies visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

Landmark rail innovation centre taking shape in Staveley

12th August 2025

A cutting-edge rail innovation and training centre rises rapidly in Barrow Hill, marking a major milestone for Staveley’s growth.

The steel frame is now under construction to build the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe).

Once complete, the centre will offer a hub for rail sector growth and innovation.

Sited next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, it includes classrooms, specialist research and development facilities. As well as a digital laboratory and commercial workshop space.

Collaborative growth

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It is fantastic to see this project coming together so quickly. DRIIVe will help grow our local economy by providing local people with the skills they need to access great careers in the rail sector and will help cement our borough’s position in the sector by attracting new businesses to the area.

Construction of the rail innovation centre began in early June. Stepnell is delivering the project on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council.

Tom Sewell, Regional Director at Stepnell, said: “We’re progressing on schedule with the steel frame now taking shape.

“As we move toward the installation of external cladding, we’re actively engaging with the community to ensure alignment with the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal and Chesterfield Borough Council. We’re committed to delivering meaningful opportunities for local people throughout the build, through targeted local spend and support for employability.”

Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society works in partnership to develop DRIIVe. It will take on day-to-day management once the centre opens. The centre will reinvest all profits into the Roundhouse site, helping preserve and strengthen community engagement.

Bob Burgess, Director and Trustee at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “We’re thrilled with the works on site. This facility will help local people access new opportunities and ensure that we can continue to help people connect with our heritage at the Roundhouse.”

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers, offering rail-related education from Level 2 through to postgraduate research. Furthermore, it will serve as a base for rail supply chain businesses, providing access to cutting-edge innovation and facilities.

Investing in Staveley’s growth

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s exciting to see works on this project and the wider Town Deal progressing. It has taken time to get to this stage. But hopefully people are now seeing the projects coming out of the ground and will be able to benefit.”

The Staveley Town Deal has provided the majority of funding for the project. It secured £25.2 million from the Government’s Towns Fund. In addition, funding has been provided by Chesterfield Borough Council, the East Midlands Combined County Authority, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

DRIIVe is a first step in the development of the nearby Hartington-Staveley East Midlands Investment Zone site.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “DRIIVe is a powerful example of how we’re turning ambition into action with the East Midlands Investment Zone. By investing in skills and innovation, we’re building the foundations of a smarter and greener economy while making sure that local people are at the heart of our journey. The East Midlands is stepping up as a leader in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable transport – and DRIIVe is proof of that progress in motion.”

To find out more about DRIIVe and the Staveley Town Deal, please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/Staveley-Town-Deal

Stepnell and Barrow Hill Roundhouse 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, Development, Home, Property and Construction