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Brand-new podcast launches to promote town

A brand-new monthly podcast, sharing the successes, stories, news and events happening in Chesterfield, has been launched on Spotify by Destination Chesterfield.

Chesterfield’s answer to BBC One’s The One Show went live on Friday 28 May.

The Chesterfield Show, which aims to keep people up-to-date with what’s on and what’s happening in the town, has been created by former Peak FM news presenter Josh Marsh who is now the marketing co-ordinator for Destination Chesterfield.

The new podcast combines Josh’s broadcasting and production talents with news and views from around the borough. People can expect hear positive, uplifting news that always remains topical as well as discussions around the ongoing regeneration in the area in the monthly podcast.

The first edition is packed full of local stories, including:

Commenting on the new podcast, Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “The purpose of Destination Chesterfield has always been to promote the town as a great place to live, work and invest. The Chesterfield Show podcast is another vehicle we are using to share the positive stories of the many inspiring projects, businesses and individuals within the town. It’s yet another example of the town’s forward-thinking approach to promoting itself which has helped us attract investment throughout the pandemic.”

At the annual Celebrate Chesterfield conference it was revealed that SMEs in the borough are reporting growth in turnover and staff numbers through the pandemic, while developments have continued to move forward at pace.

More than £1bn of regeneration projects are currently underway, with multi-million-pound schemes like Chesterfield Waterside, Glass Yard, PEAK and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre starting to come out of the ground during lockdown.

Visit https://open.spotify.com/show/4pdhLtkuPdr5iLplFeX0Eb and listen to the first episode of The Chesterfield Show now.

If you’d like to be considered for an interview or involvement in a future episode of The Chesterfield Show, please contact josh.marsh@chesterfield.co.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield Awards, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

New-look events programme promises an action-packed summer for Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield town centre will be a hive of activity this summer with the launch of a new-look events programme – designed to increase footfall and support our returning retailers, market traders and hospitality businesses.

From circus workshops and stilt walkers to sports and heritage themed events, there will be something for everyone throughout the coming months.

The council will pay particular attention to ensuring people feel safe when visiting Chesterfield town centre through the implementation of appropriate Covid-19 safety measures.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s refreshed programme is part of the Love Chesterfield campaign – launched in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to celebrate everything that’s great about the town, while supporting the trading ambitions of local retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “After what has been an incredibly difficult year, our new-look events programme aims to create a real buzz and positive atmosphere – reflecting the great character and spirit of our town, our residents and our businesses.

“We will be funding a range of regular events which means there will be something going on throughout the summer months, providing a chance for everyone to get out and about and enjoy the fun experiences that have been missed by so many of us during the pandemic.

“Looking further forward, we’re planning events into the autumn – including the popular 1940s Market – and our Christmas in Chesterfield celebrations are also taking shape.”

‘Summer of Fun’ events will run through July, with walkabout entertainment and activities tied to key events such as Wimbledon, the Tokyo Olympics and the Chesterfield Festival of Cricket.

August will see a range of events themed around a ‘Summer of Play’ – tied to the council’s Year of Outdoors project which focuses on improving people’s health and wellbeing.

Activities will run every weekend, including circus workshops, treasure hunts and town centre trails.

Shoppers got a taste of the new style entertainment at the launch of the Love Chesterfield campaign in early May – with a range of street performers entertaining the crowds as customers were welcomed back into the town centre.

The Motor Fest event, which usually takes place in August, is to be paused again for this year. Given the ongoing pandemic, it is too early to hold a single event which attracts tens of thousands of people into an open town centre space and ensure compliance with Covid-19 safety measures. However, the council is already working with local organisers to create a bigger and better Motor Fest event for 2022.

The annual Medieval Market will be replaced for 2021 by a community-focussed market event that will celebrate the work of Chesterfield’s voluntary and community sector through the pandemic, while helping them to raise much-needed funds. This will be held in August, and be based in the Market Place with stalls, fun fair rides, and family entertainment.

Councillor Gilby added: “We of course hope that the Government is able to proceed with the last step of its roadmap out of lockdown on 21 June, however, should it not prove possible the council has worked hard to build an events programme that is as adaptable as possible should some elements of the current Covid-19 restrictions need to stay in place over the coming months.

“Our enhanced programme for this year has been designed to offer choice and new experiences for new and returning audiences. We recognise the importance of everyone feeling safe in Chesterfield town centre and if they do, they are more likely to visit and support our fantastic shops, eateries and bars as we get back to a more normal way of living.

“In planning our new-look programme we have had to take some difficult decisions. We won’t be going ahead with some of the events that are usually in our annual calendar but feel confident in our enhanced offer of more regular activities.

“Our community-focused market event will also provide the opportunity for us all to say a massive thank you to our amazing voluntary and community organisations who have done so much for the borough’s residents over the past 15 months.”

More information about the Love Chesterfield events programme will be published on the council’s website at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/love-chesterfield and also on social media channels using the #LoveChesterfield hashtag.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Head of the Family Department at Elliot Mather LLP Appointed as President of Derby Law Society

Julie Skill, LLP Member and head of the Family Department at Elliot Mather has been appointed as President of the Derby Law Society.

Julie has practised Family Law since 1989 and has been with the firm since she was a paralegal. She possesses a high level of expertise relating to a broad range of family matters. She advises on matters such as, pre-nuptial agreements, and if the worst happens and a relationship does fail, she handles all aspects of that relationship breakdown, including issues relating to children, finances and domestic abuse in an efficient and practical manner.

Commenting on her appointment as President of the Derby Law Society, Julie said: “I am extremely proud to even have been considered for the role and I am thankful for the nomination to be chosen. To have my name added to the list of such esteemed predecessors is an absolute privilege and honour. Although I am taking over the role of President at a very unique and somewhat bizarre time, I am dedicated to ensuring that I do justice to the position.”

The Derby Law Society was established in early 1886, and consisted of 35 members who were committed to starting a Law Library. Since then, the Derby Law Society has experienced exponential growth and represents lawyers across the whole of Derbyshire and East Staffordshire.

The Society aims to support the legal profession locally by offering training, social events, and representing its members’ interest. Additionally, the Society aims to assist the public in sourcing solicitors with a particular specialism.

The team at Elliot Mather are extremely proud of Julie’s latest appointment of President and we are sure that she will be a great success in the role.

Managing Partner, Julie Page has said: “Elliot Mather recognises the important role of the Derby Law Society and I am thrilled that Julie will be at the helm for the next 12 months. I know that Julie will approach this opportunity with the same passion and commitment that she shows to all aspects of her professional career.”

Elliot Mather LLP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Construction underway at new Chesterfield Care Home, creating historic gateway into its former life

Construction is well underway at a new 72 bed care home in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, which incorporates a doorway into its past.

The care home, designed by RIBA Chartered HSSP Architects, the multi-award-winning architecture practice, integrates a listed, Victorian ‘Drill Hall’ doorway arch into the design of a modern, innovative care home providing high dependency care for its residents.

The care home sits on the site of the former ‘Drill Hall’ which was built in 1897 to provide a space for the volunteer 6th Battalion Sherwood Foresters to train. It was a valued part of the community until it was demolished in 1991 and replaced with a car park. During its deconstruction, the listed decorative main stone archway was saved, and put into storage where it has been for nearly 30 years.

As part of the planning and design process, the stone, grand ornate archway which is typical of the Victorian era has been the inspiration for the new frontage.

HSSP Director and project Architect, James Botterill, said: “On viewing the historical archway which has been laying in nearby storage for decades, we began to pick-up the styling and character of the building that had once stood. It’s an impressive piece of architecture and we were determined its strong decorative character should be incorporated into the design of the new building –  transitioning its past into the modern world. It was a fantastic design challenge but one that could have easily fallen into the realms of pastiche. By focusing on textures, materials and shape, we were able to add to its evolution and add personality and style onto the new design.”

The site, which is situated on the main road into the town, also had other design challenges to overcome that have influenced the design. The steep sloping topography has allowed for a 4 storey building to appear only 2 storeys at the road frontage, ensuring the development is not overbearing upon the street scene. Employing biophilic principles, the building opens up the hillside providing residents with clear access and views of the nearby allotments. The main living area enjoys a free flow of space leading directly to the terrace areas.

All 72 rooms have been designed with modern ensuites, communal living areas combine home comforts with the requirements of high-dependency nursing, and staff areas are spacious and airy.

James concluded: “We have worked in partnership with the developer and planners to bring our vision to life. The planners were delighted with our perceptive designs that revert the site back to its former street scene appearance and we look forward to seeing a piece of history reincarnated in the next guise of its life.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Double nomination for BHP at regional industry awards

Local independent accountancy firm, BHP, has been nominated in two categories at the prestigious Yorkshire Accountancy Awards.

The first nomination is for the Tax Service Award, which celebrates accountancy firms in Yorkshire who’ve stood apart from the competition through their technical ability and innovation in delivering tax services to clients.

BHP’s second nomination is for Support Staff of the Year, which celebrates the region’s most dedicated support staff or team working in IT, HR and other areas, whose exceptionally high standards contributed to the accountancy firm’s success.

Now in its fourth year, the Yorkshire Accountancy Awards celebrates the achievements of the region’s best and brightest from firms of all sizes, working with clients both locally and internationally. The event will be held on the 8 July at the New Dock Hall in Leeds.

BHP hope to build on their previous run of success at the awards, which includes Paul Winwood being recognised as Partner of the Year in 2020, as well as the accountancy firm’s win of Mid-Tier Firm of the Year and Best Employer of the Year back in 2019.

Hamish Morrison, Joint Managing Partner, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to hear that we’ve been nominated for these two awards.

“We’ve had to overcome some tremendous challenges over the past year to succeed as a business, and that wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of our IT team, who went above and beyond in ensuring BHP was not just fully functional during a sudden transition to remote working.

“Through their use of best-in-class technology solutions, they did not just keep the lights on but ensured that we could continue to offer clients and staff the high-quality experience they have come to expect from us.

“I’m also incredibly proud of all the colleagues within our tax team, whose pro-active approach to business tax planning throughout these difficult times has led to continued success for our clients.”

For more information about BHP, visit www.bhp.co.uk.

BHP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield College asks creative businesses to join their campaign to highlight how Creativity Pays

Chesterfield College is calling for creative businesses across Derbyshire to join their campaign to highlight how crucial creative skills are for the economy, our communities and our wellbeing.

The campaign, Creativity Pays, will showcase creative businesses and careers as well as connect the community to support local makers and creatives. It also aims to encourage people to develop the skills the creative industries sector in our region need for the future.

Pre-pandemic the creative industries sector in the UK was enjoying a boom and growing faster than any other sector. Jobs were growing at 2.7 times the national average, and the sector contributed £13.2m/hour to the economy (source: DCMS 2019).

Importantly, designers, filmmakers, actors, photographers, journalists, publishers, musicians have all played a role in supporting us through the challenges we have faced as a society during the pandemic. Whether that is through bringing us news, crucial information or keeping us entertained as we stayed at home.

Over the last year, the creative industries sector has been hit hard by the pandemic. However, there are many who believe this sector will form a crucial part of our recovery and will help us build back for the future.

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of The Chesterfield College Group said: “This initiative provides us with a unique opportunity to highlight how important creative industries are for our region. As a college with a strong history in developing creative skills and supporting creative businesses, we are at the forefront of developing the skills required for a career in the sector. This campaign provides us with the opportunity to celebrate creative careers, the success of our students and the creative businesses in Derbyshire who are so important for our local economy which in turn will encourage others to develop their creative skills.”

Talking about why he feels Creativity Pays, former Chesterfield College art student and successful artist Peter Barber said: “I have built my career doing something I love over the last 25 years since leaving college. I have worked in the community and now I am a commercial artist. I believe creative careers are so important. When you look at almost anything there is in the world around you, it literally started life with someone with a pencil. We are lucky enough in Britain that creative industries are strong and people want to create and work here. My work in advertising had a bit of a resurgence after the last lockdown and I think we will see that happen again. We are in a good place for the future.”

The college is inviting people to get involved in the campaign in a number of ways including:
• Tell the story of how creativity pays for you on social media using #creativitypays
• Shout about the local creative businesses you love and add them to their Creativity Pays directory #creativederbyshire

Find out more about the campaign and how to get involved at chesterfield.ac.uk/creativitypays/.

Chesterfield College supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Redbrik named the best UK property company to work for

North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire Estate Agents, Redbrik has been awarded the title of Property’s Best Company to Work For in the UK in this year’s Best Companies Awards.

Celebrating the best of UK businesses, the Best Companies List is now in its 20th year.

For 2021, Redbrik has been named in the following three categories:

• Number 1 in the Top 5 UK property companies to work for
• Number 24 in the Top 75 best regional (Yorkshire and Humber) companies to work for
• Number 31 in the Top 100 UK small companies to work for

In addition, the estate agents received a 2-star accreditation as an outstanding company to work for.

Redbrik Managing Director, Mark Ross, commented: “We are nothing without our people; teaching, training and nurturing our fantastic team will always be one of our top priorities. I want to thank every employee for making Redbrik a vibrant, fun and exciting place to work and for the recognition we have achieved together.

“When engagement is a priority, everyone wins. Our employees love being part of Redbrik, and our customers receive the best service because our team genuinely care about the work they are doing.”

Best Companies specialise in workplace engagement, helping businesses to understand how their employees feel about their workplace. The confidential b-Heard survey gathers data about all aspects of the employee experience to generate a Best Companies Index (BCI) score, which then feeds into the Best Companies List.

The lists and winners of each category were revealed at Best Companies Live, an online event on Friday 21st May, hosted by Dan Walker.

Working in Chesterfield includes opportunities at a wide range of businesses including IT specialists, world class engineering and communications companies. From high street names to local specialists, arts and culture, hotels and an historic town centre market, the town has a vibrant heart. Find out more about working in the town here.

Redbrik Estate Agents supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Ashgate Hospicecare launches Forget-Me-Not Appeal

Ashgate Hospicecare has launched a new way for supporters to celebrate, mourn and remember their loved ones with its Forget-Me-Not Appeal.

As part of the appeal, which is sponsored by Graysons Solicitors, people can make a suggested donation of £25 for a custom made, beautifully crafted forget-me-not flower, to pay a lasting tribute to friends and family.

The striking purple flowers, each measuring 45cm in length, have been made by the Oswestry-based British Ironwork Centre.

The limited-edition flowers will form a display from 8th to 30th June, within the picturesque grounds of Chatsworth.

Jack Wood, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospicecare, said: “The last year has been a difficult time for everyone. One of the most heartbreaking aspects of COVID is how it has kept people apart, particularly at times when people needed each other more than ever.

“It took away the opportunity for people to say their final goodbyes, to be by their bedside and to share in those sacred last moments. This is extremely difficult for those left behind, as they look for a way to process their experiences and navigate this new world of grief.

“That is why we are proud to be able to offer our community a meaningful way to remember their loved ones and to provide them with the time to reflect.

“A forget-me-not flower can be dedicated to anyone; they don’t need to have accessed the support and services of Ashgate Hospicecare.”

“The hospice allowed Julie to spend her final moments in peace.”

Steve Griffiths, 67, from Winster in the Peak District, will be dedicating a forget-me-not in memory of his wife, Julie, who experienced ‘exceptional’ care at Ashgate Hospicecare’s inpatient unit after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare type of lung cancer.

Steve said: “The hospice allowed Julie to spend her final moments in peace. The last thing I’d want was for her to have an unpleasant death; she’d suffered enough already. Ashgate gave her a very calming and peaceful end to her life and I’m enormously grateful for this.

“That’s the marvellous thing about Ashgate – it takes the stress away so you can focus on creating those final memories together. The team are always there and make everything as easy as possible for you. Whatever we needed was there, whenever we needed it.

“In tribute to Julie, I’ve chosen to support Ashgate Hospicecare’s Forget-Me-Not Appeal and dedicate a keepsake flower in memory of her. I know Julie would have loved to have walked through the stunning grounds at Chatsworth to see the meadow of flowers glistening in the sun.”

Visit the forget-me-not display at Chatsworth

Thousands of forget-me-nots will form a display at Chatsworth, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.

The Duke of Devonshire and President of Ashgate Hospicecare, said: “We are delighted to welcome the local community to Chatsworth to pause in a moment of reflection together.

“Undoubtedly, this has been an extremely challenging year, which makes this display ever more poignant, while raising much needed funds for our much-loved local hospice.

“Money raised from appeals such as this one, ensures the continuation of the exceptional care and services that Ashgate delivers to thousands of families across North Derbyshire.”

The suggested donation for a forget-me-not is £25 and money raised will be used to fund the hospice’s round-the-clock specialist end-of-life care.

To dedicate a flower, visit https://www.ashgatehospicecare.org.uk/forget-me-not/ or call the fundraising team on 01246 567250.

Supporters will be able to collect their flower, or have them posted to them in July, once the public display is removed.

Ashgate Hospicecare and Chatsworth support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women Awards 2021 finalists revealed

Apprentices, entrepreneurs and STEM ambassadors are among those recognised at East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women Awards this year.

Finalists have been announced for the 2021 awards, held in partnership with headline sponsor Futures Housing Group, across eight categories.

Alongside individual categories, topped off by the Business Woman of the Year, there are group awards including Small Business of the Year and Team of the Year.

The shortlisted individuals and companies will find out whether they have won at an awards ceremony on Friday 8 October, which is currently planned as a gala dinner in Nottingham.

It will be the headline event for the Enterprising Women network, which is co-chaired by Chamber president Eileen Richards MBE and past president Jean Mountain.

Eileen said: “The East Midlands is home to some fantastic success stories of enterprising women and it’s great to be able to celebrate the people, teams and businesses that help to make our region so great.

“These awards are a huge part of the Chamber calendar and we can’t wait for the big night, which we hope will be a physical celebration that we can all look forward to.”

Jean added: “As we approach the 25th anniversary of the Enterprising Women network next year, this is once again a very strong line-up in our awards shortlist.

“We’ve loved watching our finalists and winners in previous years go on to achieve great things, and I’m sure the class of 2021 will be no different.”

The finalists were announced at a special Enterprising Women event last night (Thursday 20 May), in which guest speaker Lindsey Williams, group chief executive of Futures Housing Group, spoke about her career journey.

The current Chamber vice-president is a passionate advocate for social housing and has played a key role in boosting the sector’s profile with central Government.

Lindsey said: “I’m delighted that Futures Housing Group is sponsoring the East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women Awards for 2021.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to read through the nominations from women across the region and I’m pleased to say we have seen some outstanding nominees.

“As a female leader, I know the challenges and barriers women can face in the workplace and when building a career. That’s why I really value the opportunity to champion, support and encourage enterprising women throughout the region.

“Hopefully the awards will inspire a new generation of women to step forward and be the leaders of the future. I wish all nominees good luck in the awards.”

For more information about the Enterprising Women network, click here.

 

Enterprising Women Awards 2021 shortlist

Business Woman of the Year (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)

Rowan Bradley, Children’s Therapy Solutions
Natalie Bamford, Colleague Box
Sandra Wiggins, DPI UK
Jillian Thomas, Future Life Wealth Management
Claire Twells, Smith Partnership
Helen Wathall, Wathall’s Funeral Directors

Female Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Midlands Engine Investment Fund)

Rachel Hayward, Ask the Chameleon
Janice Holmes, Janice Rose Lingerie
Iwona Lebiedowicz, PAB Languages
Nicky Botham, Shed Grounds Maintenance
Jaz Kaur, Fraser Stretton Estate Agents

Social Commitment Award (sponsored by PPL PRS)

Bodie Hodges Foundation
CR Civil Engineering
Cross Productions
Halo Recruit
Hot House Music

Small Business of the Year (sponsored by Unique Window Systems)

Access Training
Balls2 Marketing
Breedon Consulting
Shed Grounds Maintenance
We Love Surveys

Female Employee of the Year (sponsored by Smallman & Son)

Vicky Evans, Air Ambulance Service
Ana-Andreea Covaliu, Design Studio Architects
Hollie Newton, EMA Training
Rosie McLaughlin, Embark Federation
Matilda Swanson, Loates HR Consultancy

Team of the Year (sponsored by She Inspires Global)

Astute Recruitment
Cross Productions
DPI UK
Futures Housing Group
RideWise

Outstanding Contribution to Work in STEM (sponsored by Pick Everard)

DPI UK
Emh group
JB Engineering
Midland Lead
Rail Forum

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by EMA Training)

Evie Smith, Reckitt Benckiser (UK)
Brooke Dennis, Recruit 2 You
Courtney Bower, Recruit 2 You
Hannah Ward, Wytech
Bethany Less, Xbite

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Dronfield Hall Barn pilots a rent-a-desk scheme for entrepreneurs and remote-working employees

The award-winning Heritage and Arts centre, Dronfield Hall Barn in north-east Derbyshire, has responded to the post-pandemic changes to working life by launching a new venue for remote workers.

The 600-year-old Medieval barn is a stunning location for the flexible rent-a-desk venture which is available initially for a trial period on consecutive Mondays from 24th May to 28th June. Bookings for a half-day or full-day are made online and guests can enjoy the splendid surroundings of the lofty upper-floor Gallery.

The idea came together through a consultation involving local businesses, and after watching the national trends which show fewer employees returning to their former offices.  A National Lottery Heritage Fund grant has allowed The Dronfield Heritage Trust, custodians of the Barn, to work on a campaign to attract more commercial users. Rent-a-Desk is the first of a series of business-related projects to be launched by the charity this year.

The High Street heritage building is already home to a wide range of arts, cultural and community events as well as having an outdoor and indoor coffee shop and beautiful gardens.  This rent-a-desk pilot will provide feedback from the first business users so the service is ready for a full launch later this summer.

Alan Powell, chair of the Dronfield Heritage Trust says: “We are expecting to see a demand from small business owners, freelancers and  some employees who are tired of perching at the kitchen table or battling over internet access with the kids. They need an alternative desk to land their lap tops and a pleasant place to enjoy time with colleagues and clients. This way we are helping the business community and making the most of our brilliant facilities.”

Louise Third, director of PR company Integra Communications was the first to try out the facilities when indoor gathering was permitted on Monday 17th May. She says: “Packing my briefcase and laptop and heading off to the Barn was like experiencing the first day at school. A little strange at first, especially to be working somewhere other than my home office. But I received a very warm welcome, I could help myself to coffee all day, and hold meetings in the café area. I fully intend to make this a regular base when I need to be in Derbyshire”.

Anyone interested in the rent-a-desk facility, as well as venue hire and catering for business events, can go to the website for more details and booking information. https://dronfieldhallbarn.org/business/

Dronfield Hall Barn supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Local leaders shine spotlight on sustainable transport for English Tourism Week

Robert Largan, Member of Parliament for High Peak, has joined Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire (MPDD) together with local leaders to shine a spotlight on sustainable transport for English Tourism Week (22-31 May 2021).

Mr Largan MP joined Jo Dilley, Managing Director of MPDD; Andrew McCloy, Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority; John Young, Commercial Director of Stagecoach; Sir Richard FitzHerbert, Chair of MPDD; and John Harrison of Speedwell Cavern to highlight the Peak District’s new Hope Valley Explorer bus service – and to promote green travel across the county.

Following a successful pilot in 2019, the Stagecoach-operated bus will run from 23 July to 3 October 2021, offering a hop on hop off service in the Hope Valley. Visitors are encouraged to leave the car behind, take the train from Sheffield or Manchester and join the Hope Valley Explorer at Hope or Bamford – or hop aboard direct from Chesterfield or Dronfield.

Attractions on route include the Peak District’s dramatic Upper Derwent Valley and the fascinating cave networks at Castleton, providing a great chance for visitors to travel by public transport whilst supporting the recovery of local businesses.

In a bid to further boost car-free visits, a series of extended bus services has been announced by Derbyshire County Council for summer 2021, including new hourly Sunday services on routes connecting Derby and Ashbourne; Matlock and Chatsworth; Sheffield, Castleton and Buxton; and Chesterfield and Bakewell. Some of the services also connect with trains at Buxton, Chesterfield and Matlock stations.

The news follows the launch of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s 5-year Tourism Rescue & Rebuilding Plan, which highlights the destination’s aims to lead the way in sustainable tourism, active travel and transport connectivity.

Led by VisitEngland, the annual English Tourism Week campaign – which this year uses the slogan ‘Here for Tourism’ – highlights the importance and vast contribution the sector makes to the UK economy. In 2019, tourism was worth £2.5 billion to the Peak District & Derbyshire economy, supporting 32,000 local jobs.

Details of the Hope Valley Explorer Bus and public transport across Derbyshire can be found at: visitpeakdistrict.com/getting-here.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, said: “Tourism and hospitality are absolutely vital to our local economy in the Peak District and it’s fantastic to see so many great public transport options available to visitors this summer.

“English Tourism Week is an ideal time to recognise not just the value of the tourism sector, but also the key role it can play in levelling up the UK’s economy, and sustainable tourism will play a huge role in the industry’s future success.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said: “English Tourism Week is a fantastic time to shine a light on sustainable tourism and the role it can play, not just in the sector’s recovery, but in improving public transport links for all those who live, work and visit here.

“Assets like the Hope Valley Explorer offer a great way to enjoy green travel in the Peak District & Derbyshire, whilst supporting the recovery of local businesses, and when used alongside the area’s many fantastic rail links can make for an enjoyable and hassle-free day out.

“Our 5-year Tourism Rescue & Rebuilding Plan maps out the new long-term vision for the sector and sustainable transport will be a key driver of recovery and growth. We’re encouraging visitors to explore as many car-free options as possible this summer and to enjoy a great, green day out in the Peak District & Derbyshire.”

Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council said: “I’m delighted that we are able to provide more bus services into the Peak District on Sundays for the coming summer season. These services will benefit local people and will also link with rail services at Chesterfield, Buxton and Matlock for those coming from outside the county.

“By increasing the services on offer we hope that those without a car can visit the countryside more easily, and that more people will decide to take the bus rather than drive. Having increased services also opens up the possibilities of walkers being able to use them to link up with their walks, opening up additional possibilities for local people and those who come from further afield. Derbyshire is now well and truly open for business.”

Andrew McCloy, Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority said: “We’re delighted to be working again with operators Stagecoach during summer 2021 to bring the Hope Valley Explorer service back to some of most scenic parts of the National Park. It can drop you at the start of a walk, take you to the heart of a picturesque village, or you can simply stay on for a relaxed tour of the valley in the company of a knowledgeable and friendly driver and the fascinating on-board commentary.

“More than anything, you will be helping to lessen the impact of cars on this sensitive location, reducing congestion and pollution and helping us develop more sustainable travel choices for everyone to enjoy.”

“We all need to think about the long-term effect of how we get to and around the National Park and the impact on local communities, our health and fitness, and ultimately the climate. The Hope Valley Explorer shows that there is an alternative to the car that is every bit as attractive and accessible.”

Phil Medlicott, Managing Director, Stagecoach Yorkshire said: “We are delighted to support the return of the Hope Valley Explorer service, working in partnership with the Peak District National Park, which opens up a beautiful part of the countryside for people to enjoy in a sustainable way.

“This service is a great example of partnership working to encourage people onto public transport through connecting with local rail journeys. As the country moves forward and people look to take short breaks or adventures closer to home this year, it’s important that buses play a key role in supporting this and moving towards a greener and cleaner future for travel.”

Sir Richard FitzHerbert, Chair of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said: “The Peak District & Derbyshire has so much to offer visitors and these great public transport services provide even more reasons to explore this summer – without the need for a car.

“From stately homes such as Chatsworth and Haddon to the caves of Speedwell Cavern and Treak Cliff near the wonderful village of Castleton, so many areas are easily accessible by public transport. After the past year, it has never more important to visit and support local businesses and we look forward to welcoming visitors back for a bumper season.”

Throughout English Tourism Week, Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire is also celebrating other methods of green travel with a dedicated Cycle Week across its social and digital channels.

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s Rescue & Rebuilding Plan can be found at: visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/about-us/rescue-and-rebuilding-plan

Posted in Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

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