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Devonshire Property Group commences construction on major industrial site in Staveley

Six much-needed industrial and warehouse units totalling 22,613 sq ft are being built in North Derbyshire to meet market demand.

Devonshire Property Group has started work on Hartington Business Park, off Farndale Road in Staveley, which will comprise three terraces of brand new, high specification, modern industrial and warehouse units ready to let for the start of 2023.

The development will offer six units across three terraces with units available from 2,429 sq ft to 4,856 sq ft. Alternatively, units could be combined to create single units up to 8,044 sq ft, offering ultimate flexibility and catering for occupier needs. The units are being marketed by the Sheffield office of Knight Frank and Commercial Property Partners (CPP).

Harry Orwin-Allen in Knight Frank Sheffield’s industrial team said: “There is a distinct lack of supply for good quality industrial spaces under 10,000 sq ft. This speculative development delivered by Devonshire Property Group will prove attractive to occupiers seeking high quality accommodation in the region.

“The units are currently under construction and will be ready for occupation in Q1 2023.”

Max Pickering of CPP added: “With the supply of good quality, smaller industrial buildings expected to remain low, Hartington Business Park will address some of the apparent supply imbalance with good quality units that cater for a range of occupier requirements.”

Key features of the units will include modern steel portal frames, steel profile cladding, concrete floor, secure concrete yard areas, ground level loading door, EV Charging points, three phase power supply and fibre broadband.

Hartington Business Park is located on the northern edge of Staveley, which is around five miles northeast of Chesterfield. The site benefits from access to the motorway network via J30 and J29A of the M1, both around three miles away from the development.

For further information contact Harry Orwin-Allen at Knight Frank on 0114 272 9750 or email harry.orwin-allen@knightfrank.com or call Max Pickering at CPP on 0114 273 8857.

Find out more about the range of developments taking place in Staveley at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

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

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

Family fun returns to the town centre with the Christmas Elf Trail

The Christmas Elf Trail is back in Chesterfield and is ready for you to explore.

This is a fun, free activity for the whole family to enjoy, all you have to do is find the elves who are hiding in shop / venue windows in Chesterfield town centre, to be in with the chance of winning an annual family pass to Matlock Farm Park.

The trail is open from Thursday 24 November 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023 and can be completed at anytime that is suitable for you.

When you find one of the elves, you can scan the ‘Elf QR Code’ which gives you access to the special and secret elf webpages, which we have hidden on the Destination Chesterfield Christmas website.

Santa has hidden a letter on each of the webpages which spells out a magical word. Collect all the letters, unscramble them and spell out the special Christmas word and you will be entered into a competition to be in with a chance of winning the prize. You will need to fill in the online form to enter.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is a great activity that allows you to explore the town centre. Not only is it free but it is interesting too as you have to find all of the letters to spell out a festive word to enter the prize draw. I really enjoyed finding the elves last year, so I’d encourage you to give it a try too.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “The Elf trail is always hugely popular.  Why not combine this free festive activity with your Christmas shopping or a bite to eat with friends and family.”

You can find the clues to where the elves are hiding on the Destination Chesterfield website. Each of the elves have different names and will be pictured in the windows of different locations in Chesterfield.

You can also collect a paper entry form from the Visitor Information Centre in Chesterfield and return the completed form there to enter the competition if you would prefer to complete the trail in this way.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have teamed up again to host a variety of events across the town centre including the elf trail, Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa’s Grotto.

Find out more about all of the Christmas events taking place and more ideas of things to do in Chesterfield visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas.

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Posted in Apprentice Town, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

BHP becomes first tenant at flagship One Waterside Place in Chesterfield

Leading North Derbyshire and Yorkshire accountancy firm BHP has moved into Chesterfield’s most sought-after address at One Waterside Place.

BHP is the building’s first tenant and takes one floor in the six-storey building, relocating from its current site on Saltergate in Chesterfield town centre, which they occupied for more than 30 years.

The new office will be home to more than 70 BHP employees across its Personal and Corporate Tax, Healthcare, Audit and Accounts, and Payroll teams.

The ‘Grade A’ 5,550 sq ft office space boasts state-of-the-art office facilities, breakout spaces, meeting rooms, a café/bar area, modern kitchen, LED lighting, air conditioning and cycle parking.

BHP Partner Dominic Staniforth said: “We’re delighted to have officially moved into our brand-new office here at One Waterside Place. It’s been exciting to welcome the team in to experience the facilities first-hand.

“We’ve loved being part of the Chesterfield community for the past 30 years and the move demonstrates our commitment to the local economy and employment market, while providing us with a fantastic base for our firm to grow.

“One Waterside Place is superbly located and offers our people a great place to work, with an array of restaurants, cafés and shops on the doorstep. We look forward to being in our new home for many years to come.”

Lisa Leighton, BHP’s Joint Managing Partner, said: “Chesterfield has always been an important location for us. We’ve had a base in the town since 1991 and have built up a fantastic reputation in the area.

“The new office is an excellent space that provides first-class facilities for our team. I know I can speak on behalf of my Chesterfield colleagues when I say that we’re proud to be the first tenants in such a prestigious building and we look forward to our bright future at One Waterside Place.”

As well as nearby motorway links, One Waterside Place is desirably located next to Chesterfield’s mainline train station, with services reaching London St Pancras in under two hours.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted to welcome BHP to our new Grade A office accommodation in the heart of Chesterfield. Their investment is a ringing endorsement of our town and will help ensure there are great jobs for our residents. I want to wish them the best for their future,”

One Waterside Place is owned by Chesterfield Borough Council. The building’s property developer was Bolsterstone Group Plc and BHP’s office space was kitted out by Absolute Commercial Interiors Ltd.

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

How Chesterfield’s business community is supporting local people this Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner, businesses and charitable organisations are doing their bit to help out across our area this festive season.

From toy appeals, donations to local foodbanks and support for local charities, the town is coming together in a number of ways to support those in need.

Find out how you can get involved with some of the great charity and community initiatives below, and don’t forget to find out more about the great range of festive events, activities and shopping guides at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

Chester’s Christmas Toy Appeal at Chesterfield FC

Chester’s Christmas Toy Appeal is now underway at Chesterfield Football Club. Any new, unwrapped toys, for children aged 0-18 years, are welcome.

Sponsored by Brett Martin, the initiative provides toys at Christmas for children’s charities and families who have experienced hardship.

To make a donation to the appeal, please call in at the Technique Stadium – main reception or the HUB – from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

The following business have also agreed to be a drop-off point for the appeal:

  • Ideal Flooring – behind Morrisons on Chatsworth Road.
  • World Choice Holidays inside Tesco.
  • Chester’s Den.
  • Rosewood Wealth Management Ltd, 388 Brimington Road, Chesterfield, S41 OTF.

Applications are now being invited from charities and families for toys donated to the appeal. Find out more here. 

Bridge Help’s foodbank appeal

Amid the cost-of-living crisis, Bridge Help is urging local businesses to dig deep and donate to its annual Christmas collection for Chesterfield Foodbank.

Launched in 2020, Bridge Help’s annual fundraising appeal has enabled the commercial finance company to donate more than £5,500 of food and toiletries to Chesterfield Foodbank.

Bridge Help is inviting people to donate either money or non-perishable food and toiletries. All monetary donations will be used to buy much-needed items and donated to Chesterfield Foodbank.

The annual appeal is organised by Phoebe Sellars, who is a Business Development Manager at Bridge Help as well as a trustee of Chesterfield Citizens Advice in her spare time.

Phoebe said: “As a volunteer for Chesterfield Citizens Advice I am hearing first-hand how the cost-of-living crisis is affecting people in the community. Some of the stories are heartbreaking. Rather than sit and wait until December we decided to bring our appeal forward. This will hopefully enable us to collect as much as possible and make a very real difference to local people who will be forced to use this vital service over winter.”

Donations to the Bridge Help Chesterfield Foodbank Appeal can be made until Friday 16 December.

You can drop off donations at Bridge Help’s offices on Old Brick Works Lane, off Sheffield Road. Just simply call ahead to arrange a drop off time. If you would like to make a donation, please call Phoebe on 0333 303 4681.

City Taxis supports Cash for Kids Mission Christmas Appeal

City Taxis is supporting the biggest Christmas gift appeal in the UK, Cash for Kids Mission Christmas!

Mission Christmas aims to make Christmas Day different for children and young people living in poverty across the UK.

Christmas is a luxury that some families cannot afford, but by collecting and distributing gifts and cash donations, Mission Christmas can make sure that disadvantaged children have something to open on Christmas morning.

The charity identifies children and provides support through community organisations, social workers, schools, and the emergency services to ensure that help is given to those who need it most at this crucial time of year.

City Taxis, City Grab, and City Connect are proud to be supporting such a fantastic campaign, particularly with the current cost of living crisis affecting many families and their ability to enjoy a stress-free Christmas.

Gifts can be dropped off at the locations listed below:

Chesterfield

  • Pizza Pi – Vicar Lane Shopping Centre (City Grab outlet)
  • City Chesterfield Office – Holywell Street (City Grab outlet)

Paul Gosney, Business Development Director of City Taxis, said: “Having supported Cash for Kids Mission Christmas campaign in previous years, we are so pleased we are able to be involved again, particularly during these difficult times.

“The Mission Christmas campaign is not just about giving gifts – it’s about supporting our communities, spreading the love, and taking care of each other.

“The Cash for Kids team do a fantastic job of putting smiles on children’s faces every Christmas, year on year, so let’s all come together and help make this happen for 2022!”

Volunteer for one of Bluebell Wood Childrens Hospice’s bucket collections

Fancy spreading some Christmas cheer at a bucket-collection? The fundraising team at Bluebell Wood have the perfect opportunity for you. Across November and December the charity has multiple opportunities where you would be lending a helping hand, in stores local to you, in aid of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice cares for children and young adults whose lives are sadly just too short, helping hundreds of families from across Chesterfield, North Derbyshire and beyond at the hospice and in their homes each year.

Isobel Wells, Regional Fundraiser for Chesterfield and Derbyshire said: “With only fifteen per cent of its funding coming from government sources Bluebell Wood is reliant on its fantastic supporters, without you the charity couldn’t reach as many people who need is as possible”

If you would like to know more, please contact Isobel.wells@bluebellwood.org

Junction Arts hosts ‘The Big Give Christmas Challenge’

Between 12 noon on Tuesday 29th November – 12 noon on Tuesday 6th December, Junction Arts is attempting to raise £2000 in online donations. Donations made through the charity’s Big Give page will be doubled enabling it to providemore engaging opportunities for young people across Chesterfield, Bolsover district and NE Derbyshire.

For more details go to: https://junctionarts.org/the-big-give-2022/

Junction Arts also has charity Christmas cards for sale. Working with artist Ella Bramwell-Hopkins and the Arty Ladies group in Creswell, the design has been based upon stories and artwork created during a session reminiscing previous Christmases. Cards can be bought through Etsy. Find out more.

Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts commented: “Our annual Christmas campaign is Community Christmas because that’s exactly where the money goes, back to supporting the neighbours, friends and families of those who are giving.

“Through our projects, we promote the importance of people coming together creating supportive and caring communities. This is also promoted through fundraising for us through fun activities which create funny memories and great moments to share with others.”

Local businesses sponsor a snowflake for The Childrens Hospital Charity

The Children’s Hospital Charity’s much-loved display, established in 2004, brings people together with a shared goal to build a better future for the staff, patients and the families at Sheffield Children’s.

In return for pledging to raise funds, each sponsor sees their snowflake sparkle on one of our sites, with an attached name tag recognising their contribution for all to see.

The snowflake appeal has now raised more than £1m for Sheffield Children’s Hospital since its inception. The money raised will support the fundraising for a new on-site helipad and a redeveloped Emergency Department at Sheffield Children’s.

As well as the Homes-by-Holmes building on Saltergate in Chesterfield (pictured above), snowflakes supporting Sheffield Children’s can also be found on the hospital and various locations across North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.

Chloë Brunton-Dunn, Corporate Partnerships Officer at The Children’s Hospital Charity said: “It has been brilliant to see our snowflakes light up Chesterfield for the second year this Christmas, and we’re so grateful to James Holmes for his continued, amazing support of Sheffield Children’s.

“We’d like to say thank you to every individual, family, business, community group, school, street and suburb that has come together to support our snowflake appeal. We’d also like to say a special thank you to Elev8 Access Platforms Ltd for all their help installing the snowflakes on the Homes-by-Holmes building in Chesterfield.

“The money raised will help Sheffield Children’s where it is needed most, including by building a new on-site helipad. We’re now over two thirds of the way to our target and we hope construction can start in the new year, so the snowflakes will leave a life-saving legacy long after Christmas.”

Rosewood Wealth Management supports Action for Children with family hampers

At Rosewood Wealth, the team is this year supporting Action for Children, a not-for-profit charity, by collecting donations that will build hampers for families that are financially struggling.

These hampers will help provide food for the festive period so families can enjoy Christmas and celebrate without the worry of putting food on the table.

If you can help, please drop any donations to Rosewood’s offices at 388 Brimington Road, Chesterfield , S41 0TF before Monday the 6th of December.

Recycle your Christmas Tree with Ashgate Hospice and Bluebell Wood

If you’ve got a real Christmas tree but don’t want the hassle of trying to dispose of it after the festive season, why not donate to a local charity and get their team of volunteers to collect it for you?

Both Bluebell Wood Childrens Hospice and Ashgate Hospice are running the initiative in January 2023, but you can register your collection now on their websites!

Ashgate Hospice: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/treecycle/

Bluebell Wood: https://www.bluebellwood.org/recycle-your-christmas-tree

Poignant lantern-lit procession to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice

Hundreds of families are set to celebrate their loved ones at a poignant sell-out lantern-lit procession and remembrance ceremony in December – and others are being invited join in from home.

Ashgate Hospice’s new-look Light Up a Life event has launched and the charity is giving the community a way to remember their loved ones during what can be a difficult time for many.
The 1.2-mile procession, which takes place on Sunday 4th December, will see 350 supporters light up the streets of Chesterfield with special lanterns personalised in tribute to family and friends.

It will bring walkers to the hospice’s site at Old Brampton, where they will be joined by a further 200 supporters coming just to the ceremony.

Whilst the event is now full, Ashgate is encouraging people to support the hospice’s appeal by donating for a unique lantern to personalise and keep at home.

The unique remembrance service will be led by local celebrant Jonathan Reeve and will feature gentle live music from local singer Ariarna Joy, in the beautifully-lit gardens from 6pm.

Supporters of the hospice’s Light Up a Life event will receive a lantern in the post which can be personalised with a photo of their loved one and a special message in return for a suggested £20 donation. They will also be sent an electric light to place inside their lantern.

Click here and find out more about how to register for Ashgate Hospice’s Light Up a Life event this winter.

Fortem Solutions Supports Local Foodbank

Fortem’s Chesterfield team recently posted on social media how the company is supporting residents in need by linking up with Chesterfield foodbank!

Sparky Ink Studio produces charity Christmas cards

The team at Chesterfield’s Sparky Ink Studio has been busy getting into the festive spirit, by hosting a charity Christmas card competition!

Mortgage 1st collects donations for Chesterfield Foodbank

Staff at Mortgage 1st have this year decided to forgo their secret Santa in order to provide essential food and items for Chesterfield foodbank:

 

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All the above organisations support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Reserved Matters approval for 75 new homes in Calow

Woodall Homes has announced Reserved Matters approval for the residential development of 75 dwellings in Calow.

Further to Outline planning permission having been granted in December 2021, the brand-new development located on Top Road has now received Reserved Matters approval.

The new site will feature a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties, including bungalows. The development will be accessed from Oaks Farm Lane, which is to be upgraded and will include a 2m wide footpath.

This development includes comprehensive landscaping proposals, providing for broad undeveloped areas of green infrastructure, wildlife-friendly habitats, native planting and additional hedgerows, plus the retention of existing woodland, which is to be protected. The public right of way through the development will also be maintained, providing recreational access to the countryside for the community.

Darren Abbott, planning director at Woodall Homes said: “We can’t wait to get started on the new development, with work expected to begin in early 2023.

“There is already a fantastic community growing within Calow, with our nearby Churchfields progressing well. We love working within the area and I know the entire team are looking forward to the beginning of this next project.”

Woodall Homes currently have five developments currently under construction across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.  For more information on the available properties, visit the website at https://www.woodallhomes.co.uk/developments/#current-developments

The company also recently announced a new luxury eco-development in Chesterfield, featuring some of the latest sustainable technology. Find out more about the project here.

Whether it’s a town or village experience, contemporary or traditional housing, buying or renting, living in Chesterfield and the surrounding area is affordable and offers something for everyone. Find out more about living in Chesterfield here.

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Global Brands announces £2 million distribution centre expansion

Global Brands, the leading independent drinks company and distributor, are increasing their distribution capabilities with significant expansion to their warehouse facilities in Clay Cross, Derbyshire.

The current Global Brands Distribution Centre has 152,000 sqft of warehouse space, employing 80 members of staff. This expansion will increase the warehouse size to 180,800 sqft, and add 30 members of staff to the production and distribution line at the facilities. The expansion will increase total storage capabilities at the warehouse from 30 million to 40 million bottles, across 17,000 pallets.

Following extensive groundworks, the steel frame is being erected over the next two months, and a concrete slab base will then be poured and set. Works for the 28,800 sqft extension will conclude in January 2023.

The expansion follows a sustained increase in demand versus 2019 (the last year of undisrupted trading) for the company’s portfolio of drinks brands, including VK, Hooch, Franklin & Sons, All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake, Beviamo, Kick Energy, Lustre, and Amigos Tequila Beer.

Steve Perez, Founder and Chairman at Global Brands: “I’m thrilled to announce the expansion of our distribution facilities in Clay Cross, following a sustained increase in demand nationally and huge demand internationally for our key growth brands like Franklin & Sons. The new extension will support our growing operations with additional storage and increased distribution capabilities.

“This is just the first phase in work to continue increasing capabilities at the site over the next two years. We plan to continue investing in our Global Brands Distribution Centre to the point where we can eventually hold one product for every person in the UK.”

Alongside the current construction, Global Brands has recently purchased an adjacent piece of land for further investment into the area and facilities. The acquisition was brokered by BRM Solicitors.

Adrian Sheehan Executive Director at BRM Solicitors: “It is always rewarding to advise on a deal which will bring further development opportunities and employment to the region.

“BRM are proud to stand to shoulder to shoulder with this long-standing client and Chesterfield success story.

“It is great to see Global Brands go from strength to strength and highlights a commitment to Chesterfield.

“The Real Estate team at BRM are delighted to advise Steve and the team at Global, who are always driven and enthusiastic to get deals done quickly and efficiently.”

Steve Perez adds: “BRM have advised Global Brands for the past 35 years, from when the business was just a one-man band, through to becoming one of the largest employers in the area. This is a credit to the expertise that BRM and Adrian Sheehan offer and cater to a variety of business needs.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is an excellent place to invest and locate your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Global Brands and BRM Solicitors support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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

Join us for a great Christmas in Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council is joining forces with Destination Chesterfield again this year to bring you a great selection of events and activities to enjoy in our town.

The Christmas in Chesterfield Campaign, called Everything for the Perfect Christmas, will run from Monday 14 November to 4 January 2023 and has been designed to include something for everyone.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There is lots to get involved in around Chesterfield throughout the festive season.

“The cost of living is affecting everyone, but we have lots of free things for you to do to get into the Christmas spirit, including completing the Elf Trail, visiting the Christmas Lights Switch On, taking a trip to Revolution House or wandering around one or all of our popular markets. We hope you enjoy everything we have planned.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council to promote the town and all that it offers this Christmas.

“Chesterfield has a rich mix of independent shops, stores and market traders as well as well-known high street names which offer something for everyone’s tastes and budgets – from food and drink to gifts and experiences. Shopping local this Christmas has never been easier and is an ideal way to support the local economy and its businesses.”

Shopping

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If you are looking to do some festive shopping, Chesterfield has a great range of independent retailers, offering treats and advice if you are unsure what to buy for a friend or family member.

We also have a number of markets taking place in November and December where you could pick up a few special gifts, as noted below:

If you are looking for more gift ideas for Christmas, visit chesterfield.co.uk/Christmas for locally sourced Christmas gifts, locally sourced food and drink for festive celebrations, great places to eat out with friends and family and more ideas for festive events.

Meet Santa in the Market Hall

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Booking is now open to meet Santa in the Market Hall this year. Santa will be welcoming visitors into his grotto on the Market Hall balcony from 20 November. The cost will be £6.50 per child, which includes a present. Places must be booked in advance online or at the Visitor Information Centre.

Turning on the Christmas Lights

The Christmas Lights Switch On – a firm favourite in the festive calendar – takes centre stage on 20 November. This will be a magical event in the heart of Chesterfield, and everyone is welcome.

The event will run from 12pm to 6pm, with the official lights switch on at 4.45pm.

This year’s special guest, in Chesterfield to meet families ahead of the lights switch on, is Shrek.

Shrek will be making personal appearances at intervals between 12pm and 3pm outside the Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square.

Elf Trail

Have fun exploring Chesterfield and find the festive elves who will be hiding in the windows of our local shops and venues waiting for you to locate them from 21 November 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023. Spot them all and you could win a free Annual Family Pass for Matlock Farm Park.  Find out more.

Attend our pantomime

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Tickets are now on sale to see Sleeping Beauty at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre. You can find out more and book tickets at www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/sleeping-beauty-pantomime.

Carol concert at Revolution House

carol concert at revolution house

Revolution House will host a carol concert on Thursday 8 December at 6.30pm with members of Holymoorside Band. Carol sheets will be provided, and we suggest everyone attending wears appropriate clothing and brings a torch (although there will be some lighting on site).

Revolution House will be open from Thursday 8 December to Saturday 24 December, 11am to 3pm.  It will be decorated for Christmas with traditional greenery, including a kissing bough, and a flower festival with arrangements throughout the house, created by volunteers. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

There is lots going on in Chesterfield throughout the festive season for everyone to enjoy, for more information visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

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Festive fun returns to Chesterfield with annual Christmas Lights switch-on

The Christmas Lights Switch On in Chesterfield will take place on 20 November, and everyone is invited to join us.

Families are invited to watch the stage show in the Market Place from 3pm, but there is a range of entertainment to enjoy in the town centre ahead of this as listed below. The lights switch on itself is at 4.45pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas lights switch on is one of my favourite events of the year. Residents and visitors will have lots to enjoy this year from meeting Shrek in Rykneld Square to seeing the live stage show, there is something to entertain everyone.”

The entertainment will be as follows – these acts will be performing at internals from lunchtime onwards:

  • The Rose Choir will be performing outside the library
  • You will be able to see the Phoenix Concert Band
  • The Pantonic All Stars Steel Band will be performing on Burlington Street
  • There will be walkabout entertainment around the market area including Band Beja, Glowbots, Carol Singing Christmas Crackers, The Greatest Showman Show, the Fairy Godmother and National ELF Service.
  • In the Pavements Shopping Centre, you will be able to see the Victorian Carol Singers performing between Boots and W H Smith
  • Outside Marks and Spencer visitors can meet Percy Pig

Chesterfield Museum

Chesterfield Museum will be offering a pop-up exhibit in the old Wards Shoe Shop (opposite Boots) where visitors can take part in Christmas crafts, Victorian games and handling objects from 10am – 4pm.

Crooked Spire Church

Visit St Mary and All Saints Church, otherwise known as the Crooked Spire, to see A Festival of Christmas Trees from 12pm – 5.30pm.

Stage entertainment

The stage show will start at 3pm and will include The Rose Choir (from Chesterfield Studios), the Carol Singing Christmas Crackers, Band Beja, and interviews with a Councillor and an independent trader.

There will be appearances from Santa, the Mayor and Mayoress and some of the Sleeping Beauty pantomime cast including a song by Olivia Bailey who plays Princess Aurora. The lights will be switched on at 4.45pm and then the crowd will be entertained by The Greatest Showman Show.

The entertainment programme is subject to change.

As one of our most popular events of the year, we expect a high footfall in the town centre so please allow plenty of time to both arrive and depart the event.

Tickets are now on sale to see Sleeping Beauty, this year’s pantomime, at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre. You can find out more and book tickets online.

Meet Shrek in Chesterfield

This year’s special guest, in Chesterfield to meet families ahead of the lights switch on, is Shrek.

Shrek will be making personal appearances at intervals between 12pm and 3pm outside the Visitor Information Centre in Rykneld Square.

There is lots going on in Chesterfield throughout the festive season for everyone to enjoy, for more information visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Consultation begins on £1.14 billion devolution plans for our region

A public consultation about devolution for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham has begun.

The consultation is taking place from Monday 14 November until Monday 9 January 2023 and is an opportunity for everyone in the area to have their say about devolution proposals. It is open to residents, businesses, community and voluntary groups, and other organisations in the region.

Derbyshire County Council leaders, and those of Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, and Nottingham City Council all signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at Rolls Royce in Derby, following an announcement from the Government that a package of new powers and funding, worth £1.14 billion, were available for the area.

Since August the councils have been working on agreeing a more detailed proposal for consultation, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area.

The 4 councils agreed to go ahead with a public consultation as the next step in the process, so everyone has the chance to give their views on the proposal.

Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Devolution is about getting a better deal for Derbyshire and the East Midlands and achieving a fair share for our region. It will bring us more money and mean we can make more meaningful decisions here, rather than in London.

“This deal will bring more and better jobs and opportunities for training, improve the local economy, result in better transport and housing, and accelerate our route to Net Zero. I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and give us their views on devolution.

“A devolution deal, should it be agreed, would be the beginning, not the end. We’re determined to build on this deal over time, as other areas have done.”

Devolution would provide the region with a guaranteed income stream of £38 million per year over a 30-year period, and would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one of the biggest in the country.

If the plans go ahead, it would mean a new regional mayor and it would create the first of a new type of combined authority for the 2 counties and cities, which requires new legislation from central government.

The new elected regional mayor, like those who are already in place in other areas, would represent the whole area. The role of the mayor would be to look at major issues affecting the whole region, give the area a bigger voice, and take advantage of local knowledge and expertise.

As well as the £1.14 billion, devolution plans include an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land, and control over a range of budgets like the Adult Education Budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

Devolution would mean that a future mayor and combined authority could:

  • work towards Net Zero and cleaner air with new low carbon homes, retrofit existing houses with external wall insulation, promote the use of renewable energy, and protect and enhance green spaces, like areas for wildlife and green verges.
  • build on the region’s existing knowledge and expertise in green technology and promote the growth of a future low carbon economy by investing in related skills training at colleges and other training facilities.
  • set up and coordinate smart integrated ticketing and enhanced concessionary fares schemes.
  • work with Homes England to build more affordable homes, by using new powers to buy land and housing (With district and borough council consent).
  • enhance the region’s economy by developing new commercial space to maximise opportunities.
  • work with national government on initiatives to address homelessness, domestic abuse, community safety, social mobility, and support for young people.
  • take advantage of economies of scale by using combined and devolved budgets to deliver more value for taxpayers and more cost-efficient services

The 4 councils sent initial proposals to negotiate a combined devolution deal back in March 2022, after being named as pathfinder areas by the Government in February and then being invited to apply for a devolution deal.

The councils have been working with the government to develop details of the deal, alongside discussions with district and borough councils, businesses, and other stakeholders.

If the devolution deal is formally approved, the government will pass legislation bringing a new combined authority for the East Midlands into existence. The first election for a regional mayor for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, would be in May 2024.

The regional mayor would lead the new combined authority, which would also include representatives from local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

The devolution deal would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

Find out more about the consultation at: http://www.eastmidlandsdevolution.co.uk/have-your-say/

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Chesterfield’s Regeneration Award winner praises ‘collaborative effort’ on landmark housing project

The winner of the 2022 Love Chesterfield Award for Regeneration, which celebrates the built environment in Chesterfield, has heaped praise on the team who made it possible.

A collaborative project between Chesterfield Borough Council and Henry Boot Construction, Badger Croft is described as the ‘largest council housing development in a generation’ in Chesterfield. The £4.1m development has seen 21 brand-new properties constructed on the former Brockwell Court site in Loundsley Green.

The development is providing families with modern homes that have been designed for a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Increased levels of insulation throughout and electric vehicle charging points have been installed on properties with driveways to support lower carbon transport options.

Councillor Chris Ludlow, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “We are delighted that the Badger Croft development has been recognised and won the regeneration award at this year’s Love Chesterfield Awards. The win really is a testament to all the hard work and dedication that has been put in by the council, alongside our partners, Henry Boot Construction.

“Badger Croft is the biggest council housing development of this generation in Chesterfield and marks a huge milestone in our efforts to increase the housing supply across the borough.

“Creating attractive places for residents is at the very heart of what we do and these new properties allow us to provide affordable, modern and accessible homes for families in our borough.”

We recently caught up with Tony Shaw, Managing Director at Henry Boot Construction, to get the company’s reaction to winning the award…

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Tell us how pleased you are to have won the Regeneration Award at the Love Chesterfield Awards 2022!

We are delighted that Badger Croft won the Regeneration Award, the project was a collaborative effort between everyone involved which led to a brilliant end product, so it’s great to see the project recognised for its regenerative impact in Chesterfield. The Regeneration award is testament to the hard work of the team in transforming the area into quality housing for local families.

How exciting has the Badger Croft project been to work on as a company, and how much of a benefit has the project had on our local community?

As a company based in Dronfield, working on the project with Chesterfield Borough Council had a really local feeling and this was emphasised by our trusted supply chain, with the brickwork, joinery, plastering, plumbing, roofing and window installation all completed by subcontractors who were based within 20 miles of the site.

In conjunction with the Council, we worked closely with Holmebrook Conservation and Improvement Group to implement key landscaping works in the surrounding area. These works were designed to enhance the attractiveness of the area and boost biodiversity. It included the creation of wildflower meadow paths, new wooden planters and fruit trees, all for the benefit of the local community.

Sustainable development is of upmost importance currently – Tell us about the measures you’ve put in place at Badger Croft to ensure the new homes are efficient.

As champions of sustainability, we completely understood the Council’s need for Badger Croft to take account of environmental issues and contribute to a greener future. The new homes were fitted with increased levels of insulation. These naturally warm and energy-efficient homes are not only better for the environment, but they also reduce the running costs for tenants – something that is extremely important in a period of rising living costs and fuel poverty. The homes also boast electric vehicle charging points in the driveways, helping to future-proof the development and encourage the use of more sustainable modes of transport.

With Chesterfield becoming an increasingly attractive place for young families, how vital is it that we create affordable housing to ensure continued growth in the town?

Projects like Badger Croft are of paramount importance to delivering Chesterfield Borough Council’s commitment to increase the supply of affordable properties across the borough. The project is a prime example of how under-utilised brownfield land can be transformed into bright modern homes, not only providing a place for people to live and thrive, but improving the look and feel of the surrounding area. With a mix of 21 new accessible, efficient 3-4 bedroom homes, this is the largest council housing development in the borough since the 1980s. All the homes were added to the Council’s housing register and let to local families.

Chesterfield’s Property and Construction Group works collaboratively with Chesterfield Borough Council to highlight the town’s ongoing regeneration. Why is creating strong relationships between public and private sector so important?

Chesterfield is a hive of regeneration activity and it is brilliant to see a number of other exciting completed and on-going projects constantly improving Chesterfield’s offer. We believe in nurturing a collaborative approach across all our operations – by building strong relationships with all our public and private sector partners, all parties benefit from increased expertise and open communication, ensuring the Badger Croft project proceeded smoothly. The final result was only possible through an open culture of strong engagement between Henry Boot, its specialist consultants and supply chain and the team at Chesterfield Borough Council.

Find out more about the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Property and Construction Group, which brings together business leaders of the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield

https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/propertygroup/ 

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Leading local estate agent Redbrik celebrates multiple award wins

As Redbrik approaches its 10-year anniversary in January, the agent is celebrating a string of successes.

Redbrik picked up three significant accolades in the Best Companies Q4 2022 awards, in the sector, regional and national lists.

The awards ceremony listed Redbrik as the 50th Best Small Company to Work For in the UK, 5th Best Property Company to Work for in the UK and ranked 28th in the Top 100 Companies to Work for in Yorkshire & Humber.

Alongside the new awards, Redbrik retained their 2-star ‘Outstanding to Work For’ accreditation by Best Companies for the second year.

Best Companies quarterly league tables celebrate the very best in workplace engagement, recognising companies nationally, regionally and within their sectors through employee surveys and interviews.

Redbrik have also retained their position in the Best Estate Agent Guide for Sales and Lettings for the sixth year running, placing them in the top 2% of estate agents in the country.

Mark Ross, Managing Director at Redbrik, said: “A lot has changed in the last 10 years, and as we approach such a landmark anniversary, now is a great time to reflect.

“One thing that has never wavered is our commitment to our colleagues and our clients; at Redbrik, we are nothing without our people and we aim to champion every individual within the business, helping them to reach their full potential.

“I would like to thank every person at Redbrik for making it such a great place to work, and for providing exceptional service to our clients, which is reflected by our recurring ranking in the Best Estate Agent Guide year on year.”

The company’s charity foundation recently hosted the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k once again, raising thousands of pounds for local charities. Find out more about the success of the event here.

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

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