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Winners of Chesterfield’s Best Bar None 2025 awards crowned

The ‘best’ in Chesterfield have been crowned at the annual Best Bar None 2025 Awards, an event that celebrates positive steps licensed venues are taking to improve nighttime safety.

Sponsored by Global Brands and Gough and Kelly, the annual Best Bar None awards took place at the SMH Group Stadium on Wednesday, 23 July, where more than 20 venues from across the borough were recognised for their commitment to creating a safer night out.

A total of 27 licensed premises picked up their Best Bar None accreditation, including: Apartment, Aruba, Association, Beach and Groove, Brampton Social, Bulls Head, Chandlers, Chesterfield Arms, Chesterfield Football Club, Crown and Anchor, Crown and Cushion, Derby Tup, Dirty Habit, Donkey Derby, Einstein’s, GAS Bar, Holme Hall Inn, Junction Bar, Lockoford Inn, Original Gravity, Portland Hotel, Rose and Crown, Rosie O’Learys, Spa Lane Vaults, Star Inn, Winding Wheel and Ye Royal Oak (Shambles).

As well as the Best Bar None accreditation awards, five special awards were up for grabs on the night. The winners of each category are:

Best managed venue

Winner: Portland Hotel

Runners up: Donkey Derby, The Winding Wheel Theatre

Best tenanted venue

Winner: Rose & Crown

Runners up: Derby Tup, Chesterfield Arms

Best independent venue:

Winner: Einstein’s

Runner up: Association, Chandlers

People’s Choice award (as voted by members of the public ):

Winner: Chandlers

Overall winner

Winner: Chesterfield Football Club

Runner up: Einsteins, Rose & Crown

The Best Bar None scheme, supported by the Home Office and drinks industry, was initially launched in the town in 2024 by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary with the aim of reducing alcohol-related crime and providing a safer night out for everyone.

The scheme is designed to build positive relationships between the licensed trade, police and local authorities and also aims to champion improvements in the way venues are managed and encourage best practice to be shared.

Since its launch, Chesterfield Borough Council has expanded the scheme and now invites all licensed premises from all across the borough to register for Best Bar None accreditation.

Those that apply will be assessed against a set of criteria, and successful businesses are invited to the annual awards ceremony to celebrate the achievement of local premises.

More information on the scheme can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield is a very safe place to live, socialise and visit, and while alcohol-related crime and disorder can occasionally arise – as it does in towns and cities across the country – we are committed to ensuring that Chesterfield remains safe, welcoming and fun for everyone, and the Best Bar None scheme is helping us to do just that.

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, pubs and clubs across the town, and it is positive to see so many of them passing their assessment and picking up the Best Bar None accreditation at the awards ceremony. It was a great night to celebrate the fantastic businesses we have on offer across our borough, and we will continue to highlight the work they are doing to ensure we have an attractive nightlife and to keep our town safe for all.”

Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added: “Chesterfield boasts a fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a wonderful place to enjoy an evening out, and we want to make sure everyone feels safe when out and about.

“We are pleased to see so many local businesses coming together and picking up their Best Bar None accreditation again-it does show how serious we all are to making sure everyone can enjoy themselves safely on a night out.”

Other licensed businesses from across the borough are also being encouraged to sign up for the Best Bar None scheme. They can find out more and sign up by contacting the council’s licensing team via email: glenn.holden@chesterfield.gov.uk or by calling 01246 345230.

Check out ideas for where to eat and drink in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure

Wilding Chesterfield project puts nature at the heart of neighbourhoods

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s Wilding Chesterfield project has received £245,000 in support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.  The project will aid nature’s recovery in urban spaces and make it a priority for the people who live there.

With urban wildlife under increasing pressure, the Wilding Chesterfield pilot project aims to turn the town’s streets into homes for the species that were once thriving there, such as hedgehogs, bats, swifts, and the Big Five pollinators: flies, wasps, bees, butterflies and moths.

Thanks to National Lottery players, the project will focus on identifying the state of urban wildlife, restoring existing species and their habitats, and growing resilient populations, through community-led action across the town.

Wilding Chesterfield will offer a vibrant programme of community events and workshops, empowering residents with knowledge and tools to create wildlife-friendly neighbourhoods.

From creating hedgehog highways so they can move safely through gardens and installing swift boxes to replace dwindling nesting sites, to providing bat boxes to support these vital nocturnal pollinators and recommending pollinator-friendly plants for gardens and shared green spaces, Chesterfield is about to get wilder.

To support communities with the delivery of the two-year project, the Trust will be working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council, and it has recruited a dedicated Urban Rewilding Programme Officer to focus on habitat creation and monitoring, and a Wilder Connections Officer to support action at the community level.

Katherine Clarke Strategic Lead for Urban Rewilding at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust said:  “Through community-led action, we’re creating space for nature in the town’s streets, supporting the recovery of species, while also helping people reconnect with wildlife where they live. We can’t wait to start working towards a greener, more resilient Chesterfield where both people and nature can thrive together.”

Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, added:  “We’re proud to work with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and our community to help make nature a priority in our borough. The Wilding Chesterfield project complements the work we are delivering through our management of grassland, wildflower meadows, tree planting and other initiatives that aim to create spaces for nature to thrive.  “This project is really exciting because it aims to help local people connect with nature and understand how they can help wildlife to thrive. This will foster a new generation of stewards that will help ensure our borough is a welcoming place for nature for decades to come.”

Discover more about Wilding Chesterfield at https://www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/wilding-chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

£700,000 of grant funding to build a solar farm in Derbyshire

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has secured £700,000 of grant funding from the Government’s Mayoral Renewables Fund to build a solar farm in Derbyshire.

The Mayoral Renewables Fund from the recently formed Great British Energy aims to support Combined Authorities across England to deliver priority renewable energy generation projects on their own estates.

Derbyshire County Council will use the £700,000 to develop a 2MW solar farm on reclaimed land that was part of the Williamthorpe Colliery, a former coal mine near Chesterfield. The installation of the project is due to be completed in Spring 2026.

The site will generate around 1.9 million kWh per year which is enough energy to power over 700 homes annually, based on average UK households. The energy generated on the solar farm will be exported to the grid and will reduce Derbyshire County Council’s energy bills by more than £100,000 per year. Over the project lifetime, it is expected to save the council more than £3m.

Renewable energy generation is also a key part of the East Midlands’ approach to tackling climate change, and the projects will see the region’s carbon footprint reduced by an estimated 8,550 tonnes of CO2 over 30 years.

The project will also support the work of the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s Nature and Biodiversity Taskforce by including improvements to nature on the site. Wildflower and tree planting will create vital habitats for pollinators and wildlife to thrive.

The solar farm at the former Williamthorpe Colliery marks another clean energy regeneration project in the East Midlands region. From the former coal-fired power station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar to the STEP Fusion plant at West Burton, areas that were historically linked to coal mining are being transformed across the region with clean energy projects, providing more jobs and energy security for local people.

Speaking about the funding secured for the region, the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “I’m spearheading a green industrial revolution here in the East Midlands to protect future generations from the impacts of the climate crisis. Last year, we said farewell to the use of coal in our region, and we’re now transitioning to become a clean energy powerhouse, with solar being an important part of the energy mix.

“Our approach to tackling the climate crisis presents a huge opportunity for our communities. We’re creating a region that is more resilient and sustainable, which will support everyone who lives in the region to thrive. “

“As Mayor, I’m putting national net zero policy into practice on a local level by securing this funding – and this is just the start of our productive relationship with Great British Energy.”

Posted in Development, Home, Property and Construction

Business support programme powers growth for Chesterfield businesses

Nearly 5,000 businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicester have received expert support through the Accelerator Programme.  The initiative is helping Chesterfield firms grow, innovate, and create jobs.

Delivered by East Midlands Chamber and backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Accelerator Programme launched in 2023 and has already supported 4,790 businesses across the region. The programme offers tailored advice, access to funding, sustainability support, and specialist services for exporters and high-growth firms.

Thanks to its success, the programme has been extended until March 2026.

In Chesterfield, the programme has made a tangible difference to local businesses, helping them scale up, adapt, and thrive in a changing economy.  Businesses have already benefited from the programme, include:

  • Black Swan Cyber Security received expert advice and funding to develop a new cybersecurity product, helping the business grow its client base and expand its service offer.
  • Images Costumes, a theatrical costume supplier, used Accelerator support to invest in digital marketing and streamline operations, boosting visibility and efficiency.
  • Ellenvale Interiors, a bespoke furniture and interiors business, accessed one-to-one adviser support and workshops to refine its growth strategy and reach new markets.
  • Finneys Wood Finishes received help to explore decarbonisation options and improve sustainability, reducing costs and future-proofing the business.

Across the region, the Accelerator Programme has:

  • Created 143 new businesses
  • Supported the creation of 598 jobs
  • Safeguarded 505 existing roles
  • Helped 401 businesses introduce new products, technologies or processes

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber, said: “The tailored business support and workshops the Chamber delivered under the Accelerator Programme have made a very tangible impact in the region when it comes to business expansion, job creation and safeguarding, and the introduction of new products, technologies and processes.
With time limited to get registered, I’d urge businesses interested in exploring the wide range of support available to take that first step and get in touch.”

The Accelerator Programme offers the following support:

  • One-to-one support from expert business advisers
  • Access to grant funding (where available)
  • Growth vouchers for new technology
  • Decarbonisation and sustainability support
  • Export and high-growth business services
  • Workshops and webinars on key business topics

Businesses can register now to access support before the programme ends in March 2026. A full schedule of upcoming training events is available at:
https://bit.ly/AcceleratorTrainingEv

A wide range of business and skills support is available for businesses in Chesterfield.  Discover more at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Celebrating local business success

Our latest round-up highlights achievements from Chesterfield Champions, highlighting local business success. From commercial property growth and legal sector expansion to hospitality innovation and sustainable tech support, these stories showcase the diversity of our local economy.

Investment opportunities flourish across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

FHP Property Consultants is driving commercial growth in Chesterfield and beyond, with a range of opportunities across the industrial, office, and retail sectors.

In Chesterfield, FHP is working with East Midlands Chamber to market two modern office suites. With excellent transport links to the A61 and M1, Suite Stewart (536 sq ft) and Suite Westlake (850 sq ft) offer flexible, high-quality workspace ideal for growing businesses.

In Clay Cross, FHP supported the successful delivery of Wingfield View Business Park, which brought 60,000 sq ft of industrial space to market. Building on this momentum, Roe Developments is now delivering Egstow View Business Park, offering 13 trade counter and warehouse units, with three already under offer.

FHP is also working with Atkinson Construction on a new mixed-use development in Grassmoor. Phase one will deliver four high-spec office buildings, while phase two will introduce small to medium-sized industrial units built to the same high standard.

The Baileys Square regeneration project is also transforming Clay Cross town centre into a vibrant leisure and retail destination. It features new pedestrianised areas and units ranging from 500 to 4,809 sq ft.

Banner Jones expands private client team

Banner Jones Solicitors has strengthened its Private Client division with six new appointments across its Chesterfield and Sheffield offices, reflecting growing demand for services such as Wills, Probate, and Estate Planning.

In Chesterfield, Tina Fisher and Lucy Vinson bring extensive experience in estate administration and Will writing. In Sheffield, new team members include Solicitor Sophie Marshall, Probate Executive Jake Coy, Will Writer Aimee Gill, and Paralegal Savannah.

Kathryn Wheeldon, Head of the Private Client Team, said: “Each new team member brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to client care. This marks a significant step forward in our growth.”

BSP Consulting promotes senior leaders

BSP Consulting, one of the East Midlands’ largest independent civil and structural engineering firms, has announced two senior promotions. Jo Posnett returns as Associate Director, while Oliver McElroy has been promoted to Associate.

Jo will help lead the firm’s restructured transport planning team. Meanwhile, Oliver continues to play a key role in the rollout of Civils3D software across the business.

Carl Hilton, Managing Director, said: “These appointments reflect our ongoing investment in people and the future of the business.”

Peak Edge Hotel innovates with wine and golf experiences

Peak Edge Hotel, a 4-star boutique retreat near Chesterfield, has unveiled a walk-in wine cellar designed by luxury specialists Sorrells. Guests can explore rare and premium wines, including a £3,050 bottle of 2006 Petrus.  They will also enjoy this as part of an immersive dining experience at the award-winning Red Lion Restaurant.

In collaboration with fellow Chesterfield Champion Stanedge Golf Club, the hotel has also launched a Stay and Golf package. It includes a round of golf, a stay in a Superior Room, and a discount on the à la carte menu.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director, said: “We’re committed to delivering unforgettable experiences, from fine dining to golf breaks, all rooted in local quality and hospitality.”

CRUSH supports sustainable Tech Start-Ups

Chesterfield creative agency CRUSH is supporting the next generation of green entrepreneurs through the Ignite with Ebico 2 programme. Launched by the Ebico Trust, the initiative offers fully-funded branding, design, and website development to sustainable tech start-ups.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder of CRUSH, said: “We’re proud to support sustainable innovation and help start-ups connect with their audiences through strong, purposeful branding.”

Get Involved: Become a Chesterfield Champion

The Chesterfield Champions network brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals who are passionate about promoting Chesterfield.  Find out how to become a Chesterfield Champion

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

Made in Chesterfield Festival builds future talent pipeline for economic growth

Chesterfield businesses are once again leading the way in shaping the town’s future workforce as the Made in Chesterfield Festival returns this autumn. Running from 25 September to the end of October, the festival introduces students to careers in the manufacturing and property sectors through hands-on experiences.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership, in association with Chesterfield College, the festival provides a direct link between employers and future talent. At the same time, it helps schools meet the updated Gatsby Benchmark requirements for careers education.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Board Member at Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Modern manufacturing is full of innovation and opportunity, right here in Chesterfield. But do our young people know about the businesses and careers open to them locally? Made in Chesterfield helps our young people see what’s possible. It also shows employers like us at MSE the future talent that is available.”

This year, the festival introduces the Innovation Challenge, a new programme that pairs schools with local employers to solve real-world business problems. Students will visit a workplace, collaborate in teams, and present their solutions at a showcase event. As a result, they will gain valuable insight into how classroom learning connects to real careers.

James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Ltd, added:

“The Innovation Challenge is an exciting way to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. It connects the classroom to real careers and gives students a chance to apply their learning in a practical setting.”

Claire Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership, said:

“Made in Chesterfield is tailor-made for the Gatsby Benchmarks and takes away pressure from schools to organise visits themselves. The Made in Chesterfield Festival provides meaningful encounters to support businesses to inspire and find their employees of the future.”

Andrew Knowles, Head Teacher at Tupton Hall School, said:

“As a headteacher, I see firsthand how powerful it is when students engage with real employers. The Made in Chesterfield Festival brings careers education to life and helps our pupils see a future for themselves in the local economy.”

Claire Godfrey, Deputy Principal at Chesterfield College Group, the headline sponsor of the festival, added:

“We see this as a vital opportunity to connect education with industry. We support our local employers with the future skills and talent they need to flourish here, giving our students the knowledge and ability to enjoy successful careers in the area. This fantastic festival engages students at an earlier age, providing a real-world insight and enthusiasm about the fantastic career paths that are available in and around Chesterfield, so we’re delighted to be headline sponsor once again.”

Since its launch in 2014, the festival has reached more than 3,500 students. It continues to challenge outdated perceptions of careers in manufacturing and the property sector. Moreover, it strengthens the relationship between education and industry across North Derbyshire.

Businesses supporting include United Cast Bar Ltd, Weightron Bilanchai, MSE Hiller, Penny Hydrolics, Fast Signs, Aztec Oils, and Superior Wellness.

Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership deliver Made in Chesterfield in association with Chesterfield College. Chesterfield Borough Council, EMCCA Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and headteachers from schools across the region support the delivery of the Festival.

The Innovation Challenge event is organised in partnership with CBE+, Workwise, and North East Derbyshire District Council.

To find out more about taking part in the festival, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/made-in-chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Chesterfield’s green spaces shine with nine Green Flag Awards

Chesterfield continues to prove its commitment to quality of life, community wellbeing, and environmental excellence, securing nine Green Flag Awards. These awards reinforce Chesterfield’s reputation as a family-friendly place to live in Derbyshire.

The prestigious Green Flag Awards, managed by Keep Britain Tidy, are the international benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces. They recognise locations that are safe, welcoming, well-maintained, and environmentally sustainable. For families seeking fresh air, nature, and safe outdoor spaces, Chesterfield continues to deliver.

This year marks a record for Chesterfield. Stand Road Park received its first-ever Green Flag led by Chesterfield Borough Council and the Friends of Stand Road Park. Enhancements included reinstated footpaths, a restored wetland area, new planters, and bug hotels to support biodiversity. Looking ahead, the council plans to extend woodland trails, plant wildflowers, and continue its wetland restoration efforts.

Seven other parks retained their Green Flag status, including Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, King George V Park in Staveley, Eastwood Park in Hasland, and Monkey Park. These spaces offer families and residents a wide range of outdoor experiences, from peaceful walks to active play.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “We have some incredible parks and green spaces across our borough, and it is fantastic that we have been awarded a record number of Green Flags this year. Providing high-quality green spaces is key to supporting nature in our borough, but also helps promote health and wellbeing and contributes to ensuring that Chesterfield is a great place to live and raise a family.”

Adding to the borough’s success, Hollingwood Hub, home of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, celebrates its ninth consecutive Green Flag Award. The site features a beautiful garden, visitor centre, café, and access to canal-side activities, including boat trips and paddlesports. It’s a popular destination for families and visitors alike.

Jim Bower, who leads the Trust’s Gardening Team, said: “We are delighted to be awarded a Green Flag again. We get lots of appreciative comments from many members of the public.”

The Guardian includes Chesterfield in an article as one of the happiest places to live. Eurocell, in their 2024 study, highlight Chesterfield as the UK’s best town for access to green spaces. Its access to nature, strong community spirit, and investment in public spaces all contribute to this reputation. For families, the town offers a safe environment with numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

The council’s Parks, Open Spaces and Play Delivery Plan outlines over £1 million in investment to enhance spaces. This long-term vision ensures that residents and visitors of all ages can enjoy safe, inclusive, and inspiring outdoor spaces.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “Quality parks and green spaces like the Hub make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. Crucially, Hollingwood Hub is a vital green space for communities in Chesterfield to enjoy nature, and it is a free and safe space for families to socialise.”

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ryan Wilkes, said: “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!”

Whether it’s a peaceful walk through Queen’s Park, a family day out at Poolsbrook, or a canal-side coffee at Hollingwood Hub, Chesterfield’s green spaces are more than just parks; they’re places where people connect, relax, and thrive.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, LeisureTagged in , , , , , ,

Construction Skills Hub gains regional recognition for tackling industry skills shortage

An innovative training facility in Chesterfield is gaining regional attention for its hands-on approach to construction skills development. As a result, the Construction Skills Hub is helping position the town as a leader in workforce transformation.

Located on a construction site in Mastin Moor, the Hub equips learners with practical qualifications in groundworks, brickwork, and joinery. It operates through a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group.

Funded by the Staveley Town Deal, The Hub recently featured on BBC Politics East Midlands. It has been shortlisted for Regeneration and Restoration Project of the Year at Insider Media’s East Midlands Property Awards 2025. Insider Media will announce the winners in September.

Thanks to its real-world setting, the Hub gives students the experience and qualifications they need to enter the construction sector. Shortly, it will also offer degree-level apprenticeships.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “It is fantastic that this project is getting recognition. This is a key project because it helps ensure local people can gain the skills to access careers in construction. This contributes to our aims of making Staveley a place where people can start, stay and grow.”

Over the next ten years, the Hub will support more than 5,000 learners. Chesterfield College and the University of Derby will deliver the qualifications.

Julie Richards OBE, Principal of Chesterfield College, said: “Projects such as this are at the core of how we operate. Working directly with key employers, the Hub is supporting students to develop the skills required to meet the ever-increasing demand. Sitting on the Staveley Town Deal Board I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area.”

Currently, the Hub focuses on site-based trade qualifications. However, it will soon expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. This ensures learners gain future-ready skills that align with the evolving needs of the industry.

In addition, the Hub will provide degree-level apprenticeships in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, and Civil Engineering.

Matt Snowden, Associate Provost for Industry Engagement at the University of Derby, said “We are proud to be working in partnership with Chesterfield College and Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver training through the Construction Skills Hub, providing real-world learning opportunities for people looking to embark on a career in the construction industry or develop their skills so they can progress onto new roles. As a Civic University, we commit to supporting regional economic growth and tackling skills shortages by working collaboratively with industry partners. This includes the delivery of our Degree Apprenticeships in Civil Engineering and our new provision in Construction Management, helping to build a strong pipeline of skilled local talent.”

The Hub sits on land provided by the Devonshire Group, which is also delivering the neighbouring housing development.

Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “During every project we undertake, we always look for opportunities to add value and create a lasting legacy for the communities that we serve. We are delighted to be a partner on the Construction Skills Hub on our site. The Hub provides ongoing opportunities for education and skills development that we hope will have a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come.

The Construction Skills Hub plays a central role in Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan. Its delivery supports the council’s goal of creating a thriving borough and improving the quality of life for local people.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “We are committed to making sure that our borough is a place where everyone has the opportunity to gain the skills and experience needed to secure an excellent career. We’re proud to support the construction skills hub because it is crucial to helping our residents get ahead, make a better life for themselves and grow our local economy.”

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub and the Staveley Town Deal, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

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

Chesterfield businesses unlock over £170k in funding to upskill their workforce

Chesterfield businesses have accessed more than £170,000 in government funding through the Adult Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, helping them invest in their teams with little or no cost to their organisation[1].

The funding, which was part of a wider allocation secured by Derbyshire County Council during the 2024/25 financial year, has enabled 104 adult apprenticeships across the county, supporting workforce development in 41 local businesses.

In Chesterfield alone, 11 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have benefited from £170,426 in levy transfer support, including organisations from healthcare, childcare, engineering and social care.

More information about apprenticeship funding in Chesterfield is available at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/hiring-an-apprentice/apprenticeship-funding-opportunities/

Sheepbridge-based manufacturer, Graphoidal Developments, which specialises in lubricating and coating solutions for the glass container industry, was just one of the 11 to benefit. The funding supported both a level five operations manager and a level six product design and development engineer.

“Accessing the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer funding has been a game-changer for our business,” said Carl Singleton, Operations Director at Graphoidal Developments. “It enabled us to upskill without the financial burden.”

“Working with the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service made the process straightforward, too. They guided us through every step and helped us find the right training provider. We’d encourage other local businesses to explore what support is available.”

The Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, funded by Chesterfield Borough Council, provides free, impartial advice to local employers looking to invest in training and skills development. It can help businesses identify training needs, access funding streams such as the Levy Transfer, connect with local training providers, and offer support with inclusive recruitment, all at no cost.

Diane Beresford, Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership and Deputy CEO of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are pleased to see businesses taking advantage of funding opportunities to upskill their workforce and drive growth, and we hope that more will do so over the next financial year. With expert support available through the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, there’s never been a better time for businesses to take that next step.”

A dedicated skills website is available for businesses to access via Destination Chesterfield, the town’s place marketing partnership, which works with partners to boost investment and has engaged with over 500 companies over the past two years.

Andy Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Employers upskilling their teams and strengthening their organisations is vital to the long-term growth of our town. Initiatives like this, combined with expert guidance from the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, are key to building a resilient, future-ready workforce that helps Chesterfield compete in an increasingly competitive market. I urge businesses to access business and skills opportunities now.”

Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

[1] The Adult Apprenticeship Levy allows businesses to access 95 – 100% of the costs of apprenticeship training (up to the funding band maximum).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, SkillsTagged in , , , , ,

Local footballer launches Pro90 Academy

A young Chesterfield entrepreneur is turning his passion for football into a business, thanks to support from the Derbyshire business start-up support scheme.

Ewan Catt, a semi-professional footballer and Sports Exercise Science graduate, has launched Pro90 Academy, a football coaching business. The business offers youth development programmes, elite training sessions, school partnerships, and rehabilitation support for players returning from injury.

“As I neared the end of my degree, I began to think about my football coaching academy, turning my passion into a business,” said Ewan. “I initially did some research into local business support and found the Derbyshire business start-up support scheme. I arranged an online meeting with one of the business startup advisors, where we discussed my ideas around Pro90 Academy.  They explained how they could support with business advice, help develop a business plan and a 2-year financial forecast.   This included a startup grant support for my website and the equipment I required for football coaching.”

With no prior business experience, Ewan credits the support he received as essential to getting Pro90 Academy off the ground.

“The team then helped me tweak my business plan and worked with me to produce a comprehensive plan. Having never been in business before, the support I received was invaluable.”

Ewan’s journey began in Chesterfield’s grassroots football scene, progressing through professional academies before signing for Buxton FC at 17. He now plays for Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club, while running Pro90 Academy full-time.

Pro90 Academy has already secured its first school coaching contract and is delivering one-to-one and group sessions across Chesterfield. Ewan is also running football summer camps throughout August at Queen’s Park Sports Centre, offering coaching for children aged 6–12.

Ewan gives the following advice to those looking to start their own business.  “When starting in business in Chesterfield, don’t be afraid to reach out for local business support and advice at Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire County Council and local business support hubs. ”

Councillor Rob Reaney, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “It’s vital that local start-up companies get the support they need to turn their ideas into a reality.

“We want to encourage more entrepreneurism in Derbyshire to help boost the local economy, and I’d encourage anyone who needs help in getting their new business off the ground to get in touch with the Derbyshire Business Start-up Support Scheme to see how we can help, just as Ewan did. We wish Ewan every success with his new business and look forward to following his progress.”

Ryan Wilkes, Board member at Destination Chesterfield, added, “It’s fantastic to see young entrepreneurs like Ewan launching new ventures. Pro90 Academy is an example of how passion, talent and the right support can come together to create something that benefits the community. We encourage anyone thinking of starting their own business or already in business to take advantage of the business support available.”

Discover more about Pro90 Academy at https://www.pro90academy.com/

The Derbyshire business start-up support scheme offers free, impartial advice and support to new businesses. It also provides grant funding of up to £10,000 to eligible businesses. The initiative is delivered by Derbyshire County Council and funded by East Midlands County Combined Authority’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

Find out more about the business and skills support available in Chesterfield

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

Mayor puts prosperity of people and places first in new drive for East Midlands growth

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward is meeting people across the region as she builds up to the launch of plans that could unlock a new kind of economic growth.

Mayor Claire will meet residents, business leaders and people working in health and skills at a series of events in Chesterfield, Derby and Nottingham in late July.

Over the past few months, she has secured £4 billion in government investment in the East Midlands, opening up the potential for nationally-significant developments, business expansion, jobs growth, transport improvements and more housing.

But she’s also brought together a group of specialists who have been working with communities and talking to business, skills and health leaders about ways of opening up the benefits of growth to more people and places in the region.

This Inclusive Growth Commission will reveal its final recommendations in September, and they will come only a few weeks ahead of the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s Local Growth Plan, which will set out a roadmap for regional investment and the role the East Midlands will play in the UK’s wider growth ambitions.

Mayor Claire said: “As Mayor, I’ve secured more than £4 billion in investment to drive growth in the region. The scale of the investment we will be making in the East Midlands puts us at the heart of the country’s future, but this is not the end of the story.

“I want everyone to be part of this economy and to feel the benefits of their contribution. That means investing in a way which creates good jobs, thriving places, and an enabling, reliable transport network. This is growth held to higher standards: inclusive growth.

“One of the characteristics of inclusive growth is that the people who create the prosperity – you – get to say what good looks like. So, I’m inviting you to tell us: sign up to one of our summer events, think about our outline plans, and tell me what you think. Working together, we can turn our region into the best place to live, work, and learn.”

The events will take place in Derby on 22 July, Chesterfield on 23 July and Nottingham on 24 July, and residents, businesses, local authorities and community leaders are all being invited to attend.

Details of the three events are available here – East Midlands Combined County Authority: summer engagement events

At each event, Mayor Claire will outline the region’s investment programme and how it will be delivered and invite members of the Inclusive Growth Commission to talk through their work. They will then hold round table discussions with people at the events to hear their views and answer questions.

Feedback from the events is expected to be built into the work of the Inclusive Growth Commission and into the East Midlands Local Growth Plan – which will set out a roadmap for investment and show how the expansion of the region’s economy can contribute to government’s ambitions for wider national progress.

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