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Christine Durrant to become Council’s next Chief Executive

12th December 2025

Chesterfield Borough Council is set to welcome Christine Durrant as its new Chief Executive when current chief, Huw Bowen, retires next May. The appointment is due to be confirmed at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday 17 December.

Christine currently serves as the council’s Deputy Chief Executive, having been a key member of the senior leadership team since 2019. She brings more than 30 years of local government experience, including 19 years in senior leadership roles, and previously worked at Derby City Council, finishing as Strategic Director for Communities and Place as well as, Deputy Chief Executive.

Her appointment follows a thorough assessment process, including a skills evaluation and a final interview, after which the council’s Member Appointments Panel recommended her for the top role.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, said: “I’m delighted that Christine has been recommended for appointment as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive.

“Christine has already served the council with distinction for the past six years. During this time, she has built an excellent reputation as a leader and manager, for delivering strong public services and for forging effective relationships with the council’s many partners.

“With local government reorganisation just over two years away, Christine is also well placed to lead the council at a time of significant change – carrying forward the respected legacy of our outgoing Chief Executive, Huw Bowen, when he retires in May.”

Christine has over 30 years’ experience in local government, with the last 19 years’ in senior leadership roles. Prior to joining Chesterfield Borough Council, Christine worked for Derby City Council for over 20 years, and in her final years as the city council’s Strategic Director for Communities and Place, and Deputy Chief Executive.

Christine, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to find myself just one step away from being appointed as Chesterfield Borough Council’s next Chief Executive. It will be a privilege and honour to take up the role in May.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the council. It is a great place to work with committed councillors and dedicated staff that are as one in relation to wanting to make Chesterfield a thriving borough and improve the quality of life of local people.

“As well as ensuring that the council continues to deliver for its communities, one of my top priorities will be to work with the Leader of the Council to ensure that the council, its residents and businesses are well placed to benefit from the government’s planned reforms of local government within the area of the county of Derbyshire.”

Christine will take up the role of Chief Executive on 4 May 2026, subject to her appointment being approved by Full Council.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield is once again named happiest place to live in the East Midlands

11th December 2025

Chesterfield has been ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

The annual study asks thousands of people across Great Britain how they feel about where they live. This year, more than 19,500 residents took part, sharing what truly contributes to their everyday happiness.

Rightmove found that the factors most strongly linked to a positive sense of wellbeing are the simple things that make daily life easier, safer and more enjoyable. Green spaces continue to be among the most valued features in the index, offering places to relax, exercise and connect with nature. The study also revealed that people living close to a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty typically report higher levels of happiness.

Our town continues to stand out as a place where people feel proud to live. Many contributors said that Chesterfield gives them a strong sense of pride, belonging and community. Access to green landscapes remains particularly important, with those living near the Peak District National Park especially likely to report high levels of wellbeing.

Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield Board Member Ryan Wilkes said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.”

“As a lifelong resident, it’s fantastic to see our brilliant outdoor spaces, local businesses and community spirit highlighted.

“If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home, and that’s without mentioning the abundance of picturesque outdoor spaces on our doorstep!”

Earlier this year, Chesterfield was also named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments and regeneration projects, including the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood, which will bring more new homes.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/living

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Tesco set to open in former M&S store

10th December 2025

Tesco has been confirmed as the first tenant for the former Marks & Spencer building on High Street in Chesterfield.

Following a significant investment programme by property developer ALB Group in 2–8 High Street, the ground floor has been divided into three retail units, with Tesco securing the central space.

The 5,000 sq ft unit will be transformed into a Tesco Express. The handover is expected at the end of January 2026, with the retailer signing a 15-year lease.

Situated opposite the historic 800-year-old Market Place and adjacent to Primark, the building is one of the most recognisable on our town’s main shopping street.

ALB Group is progressing work to rejuvenate the building ahead of Tesco’s fit-out. Alongside the new supermarket, two additional ground-floor units are being created within the same block, both around 5,000 sq ft. These units are reportedly attracting significant interest from national and regional occupiers, suggesting continued demand for well-located space in our town.

Arran Bailey, Managing Director at ALB Group, said: “This deal is another example of our commitment to breathing new life into key town and city centres across the UK. The former M&S site is in a prime location, and securing Tesco is a huge vote of confidence in Chesterfield’s high street.”

Oliver Marshall of FHP Property Consultants said: “The letting to Tesco adds to the revitalisation of the heart of the town and shows the continued appetite for well-positioned, quality retail space in busy high street locations. This unit is right in the heart of the town, surrounded by other strong retailers, and we’re confident it will perform extremely well.

We also have two further units of c. 5,000 sq ft remaining in the building on the ground floor of the building, facing the Market Place. Whilst we have had some good interest, we are keen to discuss this with any other interested parties”.

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

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

Discover Peak District adventures from Peak Edge Hotel

9th December 2025

Peak Edge Hotel has announced two new packages designed for visitors seeking active breaks in the Peak District. The family-owned four-star hotel now offers golf breaks in partnership with Stanedge Golf Club and car-free e-bike holidays with PeakePedals. As well as expanding helicopter access for guests.

Stay and Golf Packages

From March, 1^st 2026, guests can book a Stay and Golf package combining overnight accommodation, breakfast, pre-booked tee times at Stanedge Golf Club, and 10% off à la carte dining at the hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant. Stanedge Golf Club is an inclusive 10-hole course with no dress code or handicap requirements, making it ideal for beginners and social players.

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

“Golf is a way to enjoy fresh air, spend time together and have fun without feeling intimidated.”

More information: peakedgehotel.co.uk | stanedgegolfclub.co.uk

Stay and Play E-Bike Holidays

PeakePedals has partnered with Peak Edge Hotel to offer guided and self-guided e-bike tours across the Peak District. Packages include half-day and full-day rides, point-to-point routes with luggage transfers, and inclusive options for mixed-ability groups. Bikes can be delivered to the hotel for convenience.

Andrew Talbot, Co-founder of PeakePedals, said:

“These breaks allow visitors to settle into one base and explore the surrounding scenery at their own pace.”

Peak Edge Hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and serves local produce from Walton Lodge Farm, including native-breed beef, Dorset lamb, and free-range eggs.

Find more information about short breaks in Chesterfield on the Stay in Chesterfield website.

Helicopter access extended for hotel guests

Peak Edge Hotel has expanded its helicopter landing capacity, increasing from a small number of landing spots to eight dedicated landing spaces on its private grounds. Already popular with pilots and guests flying in for countryside escapes, refined dining and celebrations, the expanded capacity now makes helicopter arrivals easier and more accessible than ever.

The hotel is now listed on SkyDemon, the UK’s leading flight-planning app, enabling pilots to locate, plan and land directly at the hotel with ease.

The upgraded helicopter landing areas sit discreetly within Peak Edge’s grounds, just a few steps from the hotel. With capacity for multiple arrivals each day, they are ideal for:

Wedding parties and VIP guests
Couples marking a special celebration
Destination diners flying in for the 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant
Corporate guests seeking travel efficiency
Travellers flying cross-country for a scenic Peak District escape

The guest services team coordinates all helicopter arrivals to ensure a smooth, seamless transition from aircraft to check-in.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel said:

“Increasing our helicopter capacity is about making it even easier for guests to reach us in a memorable, time-saving and enjoyable way.”

“Whether it’s a bride and groom making a dramatic entrance or a couple enjoying a unique countryside escape, we’re thrilled to offer an arrival that people won’t forget.”

For more information on Peak Edge Hotel, visit peakedgehotel.co.uk

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions Mitchells merges with SMH Group

7th December 2025

Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers has merged with SMH Group, one of the region’s leading professional services firms with offices across Yorkshire and Derbyshire.

The Chesterfield office will continue to operate under the name SMH Mitchells. All existing staff will remain in place, and current fee structures will be maintained to ensure continuity for clients. Day-to-day operations and client relationships are expected to remain largely unchanged.

By joining SMH Group, Mitchells gains access to additional in-house services such as financial planning, wills and probate, commercial finance, and residential mortgages. These services will be available alongside existing accountancy and advisory support, with clients continuing to work with their usual contacts. The merger brings together wider expertise under one group, providing a broader range of professional advice when required.

Andrew McDaid, Partner at Mitchells, comments:
“Joining SMH Group marks the start of an exciting new chapter for our team and our clients. We have always been proud of the strong relationships we have built in Chesterfield, and this merger allows us to protect that legacy while giving us the support and resources to grow. What matters most to us is looking after our people and delivering great service to our clients, and SMH Group shares that same approach. We are confident this is the right move for our firm.”

Jonathon Dickens, CEO at SMH Group, adds:
“Mitchells is a respected firm with a long history in the region, and we are delighted to welcome them into the SMH Group. Their values align closely with ours, and their team brings a strong mix of experience and local insight. Together, we will be able to offer even more to clients and create new opportunities for our people across both firms.”

The transaction was supported by Chesterfield Champion CMP Legal acting for SMH Group, Shakespeare Martineau advising Mitchells, Mason Thomas Law handling the property legal work, and Cortus providing financial due diligence. The firms have thanked everyone involved for their support.

For more information on the services now available, visit www.smh.group/mitchells or contact SMH Mitchells at the Chesterfield office.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

First wave of Accelerator funding boosts Derbyshire businesses

5th December 2025

The Derbyshire Accelerator programme is firmly on track to deliver growth and innovation across the county. The first wave of businesses have successfully secured fully funded expert consultancy support.

Firms across Derby and Derbyshire looking to develop, grow and innovate are benefitting from extensive support available through the Derbyshire Accelerator programme. Delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of the local authorities in Derbyshire, the project runs until 31 March 2026 and has received £722,398 from the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The one-year extension builds on the initial three-year programme delivered in Amber Valley, Chesterfield, Derby City, Derbyshire Dales, High Peak, North East Derbyshire and South Derbyshire.

During the first phase (Autumn 2023 to March 2025), the programme achieved:
• 61 new businesses created
• 259 jobs created
• 276 jobs safeguarded
• 163 businesses introducing new products, technologies or processes
• Significant numbers entering new markets, increasing R&D activity and boosting export capability

Since April 2025, 900 Derbyshire businesses have joined the extended programme. Many have received tailored one-to-one support from a Chamber Business Adviser or attended action-planning workshops covering digital skills, sales and marketing, leadership and management, and workplace problem-solving.

A total of 141 businesses have already accessed Growth Vouchers worth £2,000 each for specialist consultancy or training to adopt new technology or processes. Businesses have also been signposted to the Export and High Growth Accelerator projects where relevant.

Get Loos in Chesterfield is one of the businesses benefiting from better systems and stronger leadership through the Derbyshire Accelerator support programme.

Fast-growing portable toilet provider Get Loos needed support to manage enquiries, improve processes and access finance. A business review led to co-founder Adam Sinnott joining the High Growth Academy and securing a £5,616 grant for a CRM and automation tools, saving around 15 hours a week. A £2,000 Growth Voucher, leadership training and finance workshops have further strengthened the business and safeguarded jobs.

Adam Sinnott said:
“We knew we needed better systems and stronger leadership structures to match the pace of our growth, but finding the right guidance and tools wasn’t always easy… We’re now more structured, more confident and more in control of our growth than ever before.”

East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said:

“We are now past the halfway point of the Derbyshire Accelerator programme and I’m thrilled that there has been such a high take-up of support. Businesses are often clear on what they want to achieve but working out how to get there can be the real challenge. By advising them on tapping into expert advice and financial support on a wealth of different subjects, the Accelerator project really is offering the most tailored support – whether that be introducing a CRM to better engage with customers, introducing e-commerce to their website and undertaking research into new overseas markets to boost sales, or equipping business owners and emerging leaders with the skills to get the best out of their teams.

“I would urge businesses to consider where they might benefit from specialist training and consultancy as there is still budget for Growth Voucher support in some districts and fully funded workshops have been scheduled until the end of the programme in March.”

North East Derbyshire District Council Assistant Director for Regeneration and Programmes Steve Lee added:

“The benefits brought to businesses though the Derbyshire Accelerator’s dedicated one-to-one support as well as its engaging workshops delivered to wider audiences have been outstanding. Through the co-ordination meetings between the local authorities supporting Derbyshire Accelerator, I was fortunate to hear many inspirational stories regarding the positive impact that the programme has provided to businesses from a breadth of sectors and locations across the county.

“We are very grateful to the Chamber’s committed Team for their quality provision and recommend that local businesses seize the opportunity to take the next step in their growth, or tackle the challenges they face, with the support that Derbyshire Accelerator can offer.”

For further business support please visit our funding page: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support

Posted in Business, Development, Home

Sheffield Management School offers support to tackle business challenges

5th December 2025

Businesses across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire have just weeks left to apply for a unique opportunity to collaborate with students at The University of Sheffield Management School and gain fresh insights into their most pressing challenges. Applications close at the end of December, giving organisations the chance to start the new year with a clear plan for growth and innovation.

Each year, MBA and master’s students work with businesses from all sectors, delivering rigorous research and actionable recommendations. These projects help organisations tackle issues such as operational efficiency, market expansion, and sustainability, while applying the latest management thinking.

Sheffield-based training provider, Kinch Robinson partnered with the Management School on its international marketing activities. A spokesperson from the firm said: “Working with the Management School was very straightforward, and we felt well supported during the process. The student had understood the brief well and delivered a well-researched and well-written report. We will definitely use it as we formulate our strategy for launching in India.”

Rhoda Watson, Business Engagement Manager at Sheffield University Management School, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations to benefit from the enthusiasm and expertise of our students while gaining actionable insights into their business challenges. Our projects lead to innovative solutions and fresh perspectives that make a real difference.”

The deadline for applications is 31 December 2025, so businesses are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Successful projects will commence in June 2026.

For more information and to apply, visit The University of Sheffield Management School partnerships page at www.sheffield.ac.uk/management/partnerships/host-student-project or contact Rhoda Watson at mrhoda.watson@sheffield.ac.uk.

Posted in Home, Skills

Ten-year plan launches to boost jobs, skills and wellbeing across East Midlands

4th December 2025

A ten year plan has been launched to help thousands more people across the East Midlands access good jobs, boost earnings, and improve health and wellbeing.

The Get East Midlands Working Plan (2025–35) sets out a vision for inclusive growth across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, focusing on three priorities:

Training and employment support: Connecting residents to sustainable jobs through targeted skills and health support.
Joined-up delivery: Coordinating action across employment, health and skills partners.
Removing barriers: Tackling challenges such as transport, housing and health access.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, launched the plan, meeting participants who have completed work-training with East Midlands Railway. She said:

“This is about real people, not just statistics. It’s about a mum who wants to return to work but needs childcare, a young person looking for their first chance, or someone recovering from illness who wants to feel confident again. These people deserve public services that are in their corner, and this plan shows what that will look like in practice.”

Developed by the Get East Midlands Working Partnership – including East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), NHS, councils, employers and colleges – the plan builds on EMCCA’s Inclusive Growth strategy to ensure economic progress reaches every community.

Targets for 2035 include:

Raising employment to 80% (around 60,000 more people in work)
Creating and supporting 100,000 local jobs
Tackling barriers such as poor health, low skills and transport challenges
Boosting productivity and pay

Mayor Claire added:

“The East Midlands is a region of potential: potential which will only be unlocked if everyone plays their part. This is the bedrock of inclusive growth: that everyone’s contribution to our society and economy is valued and respected.

“The Government has set us a challenging target to achieve, but it is one we are embracing – because most people are better off in work and we will be a region where more people live that reality.”

The plan will evolve over time, with regular reviews to keep it relevant and focused on improving lives across the region.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield’s year of investment: confidence, collaboration and £2bn of opportunity

4th December 2025

Chesterfield isn’t just planning for growth, it’s delivering it. With a £2bn investment pipeline and regeneration projects already transforming our town, 2025 has been a year of visible progress and optimism. From major schemes to cultural initiatives, our town is building confidence for the future and creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

Our latest roundtable discussion with Chesterfield Champions discussed progress in 2025.

A year of progress

This year’s Chesterfield Investment Summit, attended by 200 delegates, showcased a £2 billion pipeline of projects and 7,800 potential jobs. Once complete, these developments will bring an additional £473 million in GVA to the local economy.

The summit, organised by Destination Chesterfield, brought together businesses, developers, investors, and public sector leaders to share plans for regeneration and growth. Attendees left “buzzing,” as one put it, because of the scale of investment and the commitment to benefit the people of Chesterfield.

Voices of confidence

For Ruth Whiteman, who launched Peak Project Solutions from her Chesterfield home this year, the Chesterfield Investment Summit was a turning point. She said:

“The room was full of people who care about Chesterfield and want to help it thrive. As a new business owner, that sense of shared purpose gave me confidence that this is the right place to grow.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, summed up the Council’s proactive approach to regeneration, from bringing forward office developments during the pandemic to driving forward town centre regeneration and meet the changing needs of the high street. Cllr Gilby said:

“We pride ourselves on providing leadership. Coming out of the pandemic, we made sure people could see cranes in the sky and optimism in the air. Chesterfield is alive and well and getting on with things.”

Catherine Wenborne, MD of Vines Legal, who moved her business from London, echoed this confidence. She said:

“I’ve never lived anywhere with this level of pride and ambition. It’s refreshing and exciting.”

Transforming spaces

That optimism is visible across our town. One Waterside Place, the office development at Chesterfield Waterside, is now fully occupied, with further opportunities for hotel and residential investment. The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, built during the pandemic, has become a hub for modern businesses seeking flexible, high-quality space.

In Chesterfield, the first phase of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project is complete, refreshing the Market Square. In Staveley, the Town Deal is breathing new life into the heart of the town with new community facilities.

Richard Sherwood, Director at Chesterfield-based Roy Peters Estates, said:

“The Chesterfield marketplace refurbishment is fantastic. You walk through town, and it feels vibrant. We should give credit for what’s happened.”

Driving economic growth

Alongside town centre regeneration, strategic sites are powering economic growth.

Markham Vale continues to attract industrial and logistics investment, with new speculative development bringing forward more space for growth.

The East Midlands Investment Zone sites at Staveley will create opportunities for advanced manufacturing and green sector businesses to invest and grow.

Tom Wragg, Associate Director at FHP Property Consultants, sees this as a positive sign. He said:

“The development around Markham Vale, all the industrial schemes going on brings employment and people into the area to live, which ultimately supports the town centres.”

Beyond buildings

Regeneration isn’t just about bricks and mortar. Investment has also focused on experiences that bring people together. The Animate Chesterfield public art project has created a new mural from internationally renowned artist, Peachzz, alongside a heritage arts trail, a town centre projection mapping project, and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.

Events and a Christmas Tipi at Chesterfield Market have added colour and atmosphere to our town centre, creating spaces where people want to stay longer.

Behind the scenes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s commitment to local labour clauses has created 395 jobs for residents and injected £11 million into the supply chain in 2024-2025, alongside 44 apprenticeships.

For businesses like Willmott Dixon, which recently broke ground to build a new £30 million custody suite for Derbyshire Constabulary, social value is central to their work. Jolene McLaren explained:

“We’re committed to supporting apprenticeships and community initiatives alongside major projects. It’s about making sure investment benefits everyone.”

Peter Lawrence, Senior Business Advisor with East Midlands Chamber, echoed that investment is not just about attracting new businesses but supporting those already here. He said:

“Chesterfield is a great place to relocate to with so much investment going in, but also a great place to retain, and looking at the retention of people that already live here and businesses that are already here.”

Looking ahead

As 2025 draws to a close, Chesterfield can look back on a year of progress that has strengthened its economy, enhanced its public spaces, and built confidence for the future.

Discover how you can be part of Chesterfield’s growth story at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Property and Construction

Popular bubble tea store expands to our town centre

3rd December 2025

JoJo’s Bubble Tea, the vibrant Taiwanese-inspired drinks brand with a Western twist, has officially announced the opening of its newest store in Chesterfield’s The Pavements Centre. Renowned for its fruity flavours, signature bubbles, and creative drinks menu, the brand continues to build momentum as it expands into new locations across the region.

Founded by 19-year-old Doncaster-born director Keedan, JoJo’s Bubble Tea first launched in the heart of Doncaster, where it quickly grew into a much-loved local favourite. The brand’s fun, colourful identity and customer-focused approach helped it stand out, creating a loyal following that has supported its journey of steady growth. Now, the team is excited to bring the JoJo’s experience to Chesterfield, marking the next step in its expanding presence.

The new store aims to offer more than just high-quality drinks. At the centre of the brand’s philosophy is a commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all individuals. JoJo’s Bubble Tea proudly champions the LGBTQAI+ community and ensures that its stores are fully accessible for disabled customers. Its menu also reflects this inclusive approach, offering vegan and vegetarian alternatives so that everyone can enjoy the flavours and customisations the brand is known for.

“We see big visions for Chesterfield and its community,” says Keedan. “This new location is an exciting chapter for us, and we can’t wait to share our drink culture and inclusive atmosphere with everyone who walks through our doors.”

With its warm and friendly customer service, bold and playful flavour combinations, and a brand ethos centred around positivity and personality, JoJo’s Bubble Tea aims to bring something fresh and uplifting to Chesterfield town centre. The Pavements Centre provides a central, accessible location for the business to connect with both local residents and visitors.

As the team prepares to open its doors, JoJo’s Bubble Tea is looking forward to becoming part of the town’s thriving mix of independent and national retailers. Chesterfield customers can expect a welcoming environment, a colourful menu filled with choice, and a brand built on community values.

www.facebook.com/JoJosChesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Local businesses and events celebrate national recognition

2nd December 2025

Our Chesterfield Champions are celebrating success with several businesses shortlisted for the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026 in categories including customer service, sustainability and international growth. Banner Jones Solicitors is also marking a major achievement after winning the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025.

Adding to the excitement, two local events are competing for top honours at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards, showcasing the creativity and community spirit that make our region stand out.

These achievements highlight Chesterfield’s growing reputation for innovation and excellence across business and tourism.

Chesterfield champions shortlisted for Derbyshire business awards

East Midlands Chamber is proud to announce the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026, taking place at Pride Park Stadium, Derby on Thursday 26 March 2026. They will celebrate the outstanding achievements and innovation of Derbyshire businesses over the past year.

With finalists announced across 12 diverse categories, from leadership and innovation to digital development and customer service excellence, this prestigious event provides the perfect opportunity to recognise the hard work and success of local businesses. We are excited to see several of our Chesterfield champions shortlisted, highlighting the region’s exceptional talent.

Businesses shortlisted for awards:

Excellence in Customer Service Award

Kranlee Logistics

Green Business of the Year Award

Penny Engineering

Commitment to People Development Award

Kranlee Logistics

Apprentice of the Year Award

Charlie White – Global Brands
Tasha Mills – Paragon Products (UK)

Excellence in International Growth Award

Penny Engineering
Kranlee Logistics

Banner Jones wins Best Innovation Award at the 2025 LawNet Awards

Banner Jones has won the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025 for transforming the conveyancing process with a fully digital, end-to-end solution. Winning the Best Innovation Award, sponsored by Baskerville Drummond, marks a major milestone for Banner Jones.

The firm uses biometric ID checks, AI-powered search reports and interactive digital quote brochures to improve speed and accuracy.

Handling more than 3,500 conveyancing matters annually, Banner Jones identified inefficiencies in the traditional process and introduced a fully digital client journey. Clients can now complete their part of a transaction remotely, without posting or delivering paper documents in person. This transformation has streamlined operations, reduced delays and saved time for both clients and the firm.

Over the past five years, Banner Jones has co-developed bespoke technology with leading providers to ensure the tools are practical, compliant and effective for real-world legal work.

As the first firm in England and Wales to launch an interactive digital quote brochure, Banner Jones has also shared its expertise at industry events. Estate agents and referrers have responded positively, increasing referral volumes by 33 per cent over two years.

Richard Joy, Head of Residential Property, said: “Winning this award reflects years of investment, collaboration and the dedication of our team. Our digital transformation has simplified a complex process for thousands of clients, and we are proud to see this acknowledged nationally.”

Simon Wright, CEO, added: “This award highlights the talent, creativity and commitment of our people. Innovation at Banner Jones isn’t just about technology — it’s about using our knowledge to deliver smarter, faster and more client-focused legal services.”

Chesterfield events shortlisted for tourism awards

Two of Chesterfield’s standout events are in the running for Festival or Event of the Year at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards 2026.

Matlock Farm Park and Chatsworth Estate have been recognised for bringing the region’s history, culture and community spirit to life.

The Highland Games at Matlock Farm Park attract visitors with traditional sports, music and family fun. Celebrating Jane Austen transforms Chatsworth Estate into a world of Regency charm and literary celebration.

Both events showcase the creativity and energy that make the areas around Chesterfield a must-visit destination.

Public voting is now open, giving residents and visitors the chance to choose their favourite. The shortlist also includes Y Not Festival, The Greatest Gathering, and Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust’s Georgian Festival.

Voting closes at 23:59 on Sunday 30 November 2025. To cast your vote visit: visitengland

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Spring 2026, celebrating the very best of Derbyshire’s festivals and events.

Mortgage 1st shortlisted twice at MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026

Mortgage 1st has been shortlisted in two categories at the MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026.

The firm is a finalist for Broker Firm of the Year (11–50 Advisers), recognising its work in supporting homebuyers across the UK. It has also been shortlisted for Overall Broker of the Year, competing alongside some of the largest names in the industry.

Founded in Chesterfield, Mortgage 1st has grown steadily over the years, offering independent mortgage advice and personalised support to help clients find the right deals for their needs. The team said it was proud to be included among the finalists.

The awards ceremony will take place in February 2026 in London.

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