Manufacturing

DRIIVe opens to strengthen Chesterfield’s rail sector

A £6 million investment has transformed Barrow Hill into a hub for rail innovation, with the opening of the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe).

The state-of-the-art centre offers modern classrooms and training areas, specialist research and development facilities, including a digital laboratory, alongside high-quality commercial workshop space for rail businesses, researchers and learners.

Developed by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, DRIIVe was officially opened by Ivan Fomin, Independent Business Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board. The majority of the project has been funded through the Government-backed Staveley Town Deal, with additional funding provided by the East Midlands Combined County Authority and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Ivan Fomin showing the award for The Derbyshire Rail Industry

Ivan Fomin said:

“It is fantastic to be able to open this new innovation centre – it represents everything we are trying to achieve through the Town Deal. We want Staveley to be a town where people can start, stay and grow. Providing training facilities but also space for business will help ensure that local people can develop the skills they need to build fantastic careers in the rail sector.”

Managed by Barrow Hill Ltd, DRIIVe will provide education and training from Level Two through to postgraduate research while offering specialist facilities for rail businesses to develop new technologies and grow within the sector.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“DRIIVe represents our ambition to be a leading destination for the rail industry – it will not only provide training and a base for businesses but also has the facilities needed to carry out cutting-edge research and development. We expect that having a facility like this will help attract businesses to the nearby East Midlands Industrial Zone site.

“DRIIVe will ensure that local people have access to training which will enable them to gain the right skills to access good quality jobs created by new businesses being attracted to the area.

“Partnership sits at the heart of DRIIVe, and we want to continue working with businesses to ensure DRIIVe supports the sector, but we also want to use this facility to inspire the next generation of rail engineers. We are already developing a detailed outreach programme for local schools to achieve this. DRIIVe is an ambitious project, and I am confident it will be truly transformational for our borough.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby speaking at the opening of The Derbyshire Rail Industry

The centre is expected to support businesses across the rail supply chain while helping develop the skilled workforce needed for future industry growth.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle is a fantastic example of how targeted investment into our region’s strengths can create lasting benefits. By putting funding into this project, we’ve helped bring this important project to life, accelerating the delivery of specialist skills and supporting the future of the rail industry.

“The opening of DRIIVe is a significant milestone in the wider regeneration of the area, which will also unlock future opportunities at nearby sites such as Hartington Staveley as part of our East Midlands Investment Zone ambitions. As we work to attract investment from clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing, facilities like this give us a strong platform to grow our high-value sectors, including rail, where the East Midlands has heritage, a strong track record, and a real competitive advantage.”

Discover more about the Staveley Town Deal projects transforming the area by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Skills

Made in Chesterfield returns to champion future talent and local industry

Made in Chesterfield returns from Thursday, 24th September 2026, showcasing local manufacturing and connecting employers with young people through a month-long programme of activity across Chesterfield.

A flagship initiative for the borough, Made in Chesterfield brings together manufacturers, education providers and partners to celebrate the strength, innovation and growth of the local manufacturing sector while inspiring the next generation of talent.

Coordinated by Destination Chesterfield and delivered in partnership with headline partner Chesterfield College, the campaign highlights the borough as a leading location for manufacturing, while creating meaningful links between businesses and future employees.

Developing future skills through industry engagement

The programme launches on National Manufacturing Day with an employer-led Innovation Challenge, allowing students to work directly with local businesses on real-world projects.

Young people will develop practical skills, gain valuable insight into modern manufacturing and present their ideas at a showcase event, bringing together participating schools and employers.

Students at Made in Chesterfield

Julie Richards, Principal of Chesterfield College, and Destination Chesterfield board member, said:

“We are proud to continue our role as headline partner for Made in Chesterfield. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring our students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the local economy.”

Chesterfield College will play a central role in delivering the initiative as part of its wider work with employers to support skills, training and workforce development across the borough.

Showcasing a modern manufacturing sector

Alongside skills development, Made in Chesterfield provides a platform for businesses to showcase the innovation, technology and expertise driving the sector forward. The campaign also challenges outdated perceptions of manufacturing careers, highlighting the breadth of opportunities available locally.

Nick Catt, Managing Director at Weightron Bilanciai Ltd and Destination Chesterfield board member, said:

“Modern manufacturing is driven by innovation, technology and opportunity, and we have that in abundance here in Chesterfield.

“The challenge is ensuring our young people are aware of the exciting careers available right on their doorstep. Made in Chesterfield helps change that by giving a real insight into local businesses and the opportunities they offer.”

The initiative continues to build on strong foundations. In 2025, more than 100 young people took part in the first manufacturing activity day, working with six local businesses. Since launching in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has engaged with over 3,500 students across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Andrew Knowles, Headteacher at Tupton Hall School, added:

“Made in Chesterfield is a proven way to give our students valuable exposure to local employers. Our young people are the region’s future workforce, and opportunities like this help build confidence, raise aspirations and show them that successful careers can be built right here in Chesterfield.”

Get involved

Businesses across the manufacturing sector are now being invited to get involved by opening their doors, sharing their expertise and demonstrating the products, technologies and skills that make Chesterfield a leading manufacturing location.

The programme will also include a Made in Chesterfield celebration event in October at Chesterfield College, bringing together Chesterfield Champions, partners and stakeholders. 

Delivered in partnership with organisations including Barrow Hill Roundhouse, CBE+, Chesterfield Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council, Tupton Hall School, United Cast Bar, Weightron Bilanciai and the Work-wise Foundation, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to developing skills and supporting business growth.

Businesses interested in taking part can register their interest and find out more by contacting: info@chesterfield.co.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction

£107m investment plan set to drive growth and opportunity across the East Midlands

A £107m investment programme approved on Monday, 29th June 2026, will support business growth, skills development and thriving communities across Derbyshire, including Chesterfield.

A major £107 million Local Growth Fund programme is moving forward, marking a significant step in strengthening the East Midlands economy and creating new opportunities for people and businesses across the region.

Backed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Investment Committee, 17 programmes have now been endorsed to progress towards delivery. The funding will support a wide range of initiatives designed to drive long-term economic growth across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

For Chesterfield, the programme presents a strong opportunity to unlock further investment, support local businesses and strengthen the town’s role as a key economic centre within Derbyshire.

Driving investment into places and communities

More than £18m has been allocated to programmes focused on creating thriving places, including town centre regeneration, rural development and improved digital connectivity. Community-led energy initiatives and social investment projects will also play a key role in strengthening local neighbourhoods.

In addition, a £30m Housing and Regeneration Investment Fund will support the delivery of new homes and revitalise communities, alongside a £1.6m programme aimed at bringing empty homes back into use and tackling homelessness.

These initiatives will help ensure that places like Chesterfield continue to evolve as attractive, well-connected locations for residents, businesses and investors.

Supporting skills and unlocking opportunity

A further £17m will be invested in the ‘Opportunity Escalator’ programme, which focuses on helping people into work, improving skills and supporting employers to develop their workforce.

This includes targeted support through economic inactivity, skills co-investment and youth ambition programmes. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen employment pathways and ensure businesses across Derbyshire have access to a skilled and future-ready workforce.

Backing businesses to grow

Business growth is a central pillar of the programme, with more than £21m allocated to initiatives that will help firms scale, export and compete.

Funding will be delivered through a range of programmes, including the Business Investment Fund, Scale Up, Local Business Support and Visitor Economy initiatives. These are designed to provide tailored support to businesses of all sizes, helping to unlock investment and drive economic resilience.

For Chesterfield-based businesses, this investment offers new opportunities to access funding, expand operations and reach new markets.

Boosting innovation and future industries

A further £12.3m will support innovation and cluster development, fostering collaboration between businesses, universities and research organisations. This will help accelerate growth in priority sectors and ensure the region remains competitive in emerging industries.

Alongside this, a £2m feasibility fund will help bring forward new ideas and ensure projects are investment-ready, supporting a pipeline of future developments.

A long-term vision for growth

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“Growing the economy in all parts of this region needs us to invest in different ways at the same time. Whether it is investing into places, investing into businesses, or investing into people: all of it matters.

These projects will make a real difference in helping our high streets to thrive, enabling business success, and ensuring that more people can shape and benefit from our region’s growth.”

The Local Growth Fund forms a central part of EMCCA’s Growth Plan for 2026–2030, which aims to support 60,000 more people into work, deliver 100,000 new homes and add £13 billion to the regional economy.

For Chesterfield, this investment reinforces its position as a key location for growth, offering new opportunities for businesses, residents and investors to benefit from a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.

Find out more about business support in Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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

Steelwork completes as final phase of ARK takes place

Steelwork has been completed on the final phase of the ARK industrial and logistics (I&L) scheme at Markham Vale, marking a key milestone in the delivery of the £30 million development.

ARK is a high-quality industrial and logistics development at Markham Vale, designed to deliver modern, sustainable employment space for manufacturing, distribution and logistics businesses. The scheme places strong emphasis on ESG principles, including energy efficiency, long-term performance and environmentally responsible design.

Origin, a joint venture between HBD, part of Henry Boot, and Feldberg Capital, is delivering the circa £9 million second phase of ARK, which will provide a final 53,700 sq ft unit.

Practical completion is expected in Q3 2026.

The milestone follows completion of the first phase in October 2025, which delivered 107,000 sq ft of ESG-compliant industrial and logistics space. Capital Angling was the first occupier at the landmark M1 scheme, taking a 17,050 sq ft unit.

Markham Vale is a 200-acre industrial and logistics development delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. Positioned at the heart of the motorway network with direct access to the M1 via Junction 29a, the scheme has become one of the region’s most established business locations, creating more than 2,600 jobs and attracting a range of national and international occupiers including Great Bear Distribution, Smurfit Kappa and Bilstein.

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD, said:

“The completion of steels at ARK keeps us firmly on track for the delivery of phase two later this year. As a flagship location, Markham Vale continues to attract a wide range of occupiers thanks to its connectivity and strong track record. We’re pleased to be delivering additional high-quality space that supports business growth and job creation in the region.”

Jamie Acheson, Managing Director of Feldberg Capital, said:

“ARK demonstrates our focus on targeting well-connected locations and delivering best-in-class, sustainable assets that meet business’ evolving requirements. With demand for ESG-compliant space continuing to grow, ARK is well-placed to attract high-quality occupiers.”

ARK is being developed to a BREEAM Excellent specification, reflecting Origin’s commitment to delivering next-generation industrial and logistics space designed for long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.

The agents for ARK are Knight Frank, JLL and CPP.

For more information about the Markham Vale development and its ongoing regeneration, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/markham-vale/

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

DRIIVe rail innovation centre completed ahead of opening

Construction of a landmark rail innovation and training centre in Staveley has been completed, marking a significant milestone for Chesterfield’s rail sector development.

The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, will open later this year and will create new jobs, training opportunities and research facilities for the rail industry.

Delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council, the state-of-the-art facility was constructed by contractor Stepnell.

Designed as a flagship destination for the rail industry, DRIIVe will provide modern classrooms and training spaces, specialist research and development facilities, including a digital laboratory, and high-quality commercial workshop space.

The project forms part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal programme and has also received support from the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“It’s fantastic to see work on the construction of DRIIVe now complete. This has been a long-standing ambition for our council, and its delivery strengthens Chesterfield’s position within the rail sector.

“DRIIVe is a unique facility that not only provides space for businesses to undertake vital research and development, including cutting-edge digital innovation, but also creates new training opportunities for local people. This will help us attract high-value employers to the area while ensuring our residents gain the skills and qualifications needed to secure high-quality jobs in the industry.

“Partnership has been at the heart of DRIIVe and this spirit of collaboration will continue. By working with businesses and industry experts we can ensure that this project will deliver for our community. I’m looking forward to meeting the first learners when they start on site later this year.”

DRIIVe is being delivered in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, which will manage the facility on a day-to-day basis.

Mervyn Allcock, General Manager of Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Board Member of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“This is a project of national significance for the rail sector, and we are so proud to have this fantastic facility here at Barrow Hill. It will help improve our commercial offer and strengthen our position in the industry.”

“These state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities will greatly benefit the area by helping to attract new businesses and providing local people with the skills they need to build a great career in the rail sector.”

DRIIVe

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers, offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.

As well as supporting future skills development, DRIIVe will also provide a base for rail supply chain businesses, giving companies access to the latest research, innovation and collaboration opportunities.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands and Chair of the East Midlands Combined County Authority, said:

“This isn’t just a new building, it’s a real opportunity for local people, offering them more chances to train, learn new skills and move into well-paid jobs right here in the region.

“By backing projects like this, we’re making sure innovation works for communities, helping people build their future, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the East Midlands as a place where the rail industry can grow and thrive.”

Funding for the project has primarily been provided through the Government-backed Towns Fund programme, which awarded £25.2 million to support regeneration projects across Staveley.

For more information on DRIIVe and other local developments in and around our area, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Chesterfield Borough Council and Stepnell are three of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

 

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

How we’re showcasing Chesterfield as a unique place to invest

Each year, UKREiiF (the UK Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum) brings together investors, developers, councils, and businesses from across the UK to explore where investment will happen next.

Put simply, it’s one of the country’s most important stages for attracting investment and shaping future growth – with more than 16,000 people from across the sector expected to attend.

For us, this isn’t about simply showing up.

It’s about standing out, and making sure Chesterfield is clearly understood as a place where investment can succeed, grow and deliver.

It’s also a shared story. One we are telling alongside our business community and Chesterfield Champions.

A place shaped by real opportunity

We’re entering a significant phase of growth in Chesterfield, with major regeneration already underway and new opportunities coming forward.

Rather than promoting isolated sites, we’re telling a joined-up story. We’re connecting sectors, places and long-term delivery into one clear investment proposition.

From an evolving town centre to strategic employment sites, the pace of change in Chesterfield is visible, and investable.

What makes Chesterfield stand out

Advanced manufacturing and engineering

We are building on a strong manufacturing and engineering heritage, with established strengths at locations such as Markham Vale – a major business park with excellent connectivity and a thriving business base.

This is being taken further through new opportunities at Staveley, part of the East Midlands Investment Zone, bringing forward large-scale sites for advanced manufacturing and green industries.

Together, these sites create the space, and the conditions for long-term, high-value growth.

Regeneration and the built environment

Regeneration is already reshaping Chesterfield.

From town centre transformation to strategic housing development, projects such as Chesterfield Waterside, the Spire Neighbourhood and the Station Masterplan Area are creating new places to live, work and invest.

Alongside this, continued investment in infrastructure and public spaces is improving how people move through and experience our town – strengthening the foundations for future growth.

Visitor economy and quality of place

Investment in our town centre, public spaces and events is bringing more life, energy and activity into Chesterfield.

This isn’t separate from our investment story. It’s a key part of it.

Because when people choose to spend time somewhere, businesses follow. And when businesses grow, confidence in the place grows with them.

Connecting it all: a clear, evidence-based proposition

At UKREiiF, we’re bringing these elements together into a single, compelling narrative.

Taken together, these opportunities represent around £2 billion of investment across Chesterfield and Staveley – spanning new homes, employment sites and town centre regeneration.

Chesterfield plays an important role in the East Midlands’ wider growth ambitions. We’re working closely with partners through the East Midlands Combined County Authority and Team East Midlands to raise the profile of the region and attract investment – ensuring Chesterfield is part of a stronger, more visible regional offer.

The borough also forms part of the Canal Corridor – a strategic growth area identified by EMCCA.

Within this area, plans for Chesterfield and Staveley could deliver up to 3,900 homes and 7,800 jobs, bringing together connected projects – from town centre regeneration to Investment Zone sites – into a coordinated programme of development.

Why this matters

UKREiiF is where places compete for attention, investment and long-term partnerships.

Our role is to ensure Chesterfield is:

  • clearly understood
  • confidently positioned
  • recognised as ready to deliver

Because ultimately, the ambition is simple: to make sure Chesterfield is not just considered but actively chosen.

And UKREiiF is just the start. We’ll carry that momentum forward into our upcoming Chesterfield Investment Summit, where we’ll continue telling Chesterfield’s story and building the partnerships that turn opportunity into delivery.

Get involved

This is a story we are proud to tell,  and one that is strongest when shared.

If you’d like to play a role in promoting Chesterfield as a place to invest, get in touch about becoming a Chesterfield Champion.

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

East Midlands investment ambitions highlighted ahead of UKREiiF

The East Midlands ambition to become one of the UK’s most attractive investment destinations was showcased to business leaders and developers at the launch of the region’s UKREiiF programme earlier this month.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, and East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Chief Executive, Amy Harhoff, welcomed businesses, investors and civic representatives from across the region to Derby’s Museum of Making on Wednesday, 6th May 2026.

More than 140 delegates attended the event to learn more about Team East Midlands’ vision and priorities ahead of the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), which attracts more than 16,000 delegates and 3,500 investors and developers, and aims to connect “people, places and business” to drive regeneration and sustainable growth. It takes place at the Royal Armouries Museum and New Dock, Leeds, Tuesday, 19th May to Thursday, 21st May 2026.

Mayor Claire Ward said:

“The East Midlands is a region of real strength and opportunity. We have established industries, emerging sectors, and a clear, shared ambition to drive inclusive growth for all our communities.

“UKREiiF is an event where we can show how serious we are to potential partners, businesses, and stakeholders, because they will be there too, keen to learn about what we have to offer and how they can be part of it.

Mayor Claire Ward added:

“Government at all levels can create the conditions for growth, but we know it is our people and businesses who deliver it. Our region will translate increased investment into good jobs, quality homes, and stronger infrastructure: everything we need for a robust economy.”

The launch event outlined EMCCA’s wider regional priorities and highlighted a collaborative approach to driving investment, regeneration and economic growth across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

This year’s Team East Midlands Pavilion at UKREiiF will showcase major development opportunities, regeneration schemes and investment sites from across our region.

Highlights include discussions around Nottingham’s Trent Sports District, the Supercluster clean energy initiative, and investment opportunities in Derby and Chesterfield.

Among the priorities being highlighted is the Canal Corridor, which has been identified within EMCCA’s Vision for Growth as a major strategic regeneration opportunity for Chesterfield and Staveley.

Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Borough Council will attend UKREiiF, showcasing Chesterfield’s investment opportunities.

The Canal Corridor has the potential to deliver 3,900 new homes, 7,800 jobs and £473 million in annual GVA, helping to strengthen connectivity between communities, innovation sites and emerging clean energy clusters across the East Midlands.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“Chesterfield is a place with real momentum. We’ve made significant progress in recent years, and our focus now is on building on that success to create a borough where businesses, communities and investors can grow with confidence.

UKREiiF is an important platform for us to highlight the strengths that make Chesterfield such an attractive place to invest,  from our skilled workforce and excellent connectivity to the strong partnerships that drive our regeneration plans. We’re looking forward to meeting delegates who share our ambition and want to be part of the next chapter in Chesterfield’s growth.”

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented:

“Chesterfield is bringing forward an investment pipeline of around £2 billion, supported by a diverse range of development‑ready sites across the borough.

From major regeneration zones to employment land and mixed‑use opportunities, the scale of what’s available reflects the confidence investors already have in the town. UKREiiF gives us the platform to highlight these opportunities and demonstrate how partners can play a role in delivering the next phase of Chesterfield’s growth.

An event showcasing Chesterfield’s £2 billion regeneration story will take place in the East Midlands Pavilion at UKREiiF on Thursday, 21st May, from 10.30 until 11.30.

To register your interest and find out more, visit: www.ticketsource.com/destination-chesterfield/chesterfields-2-billion-regeneration-story-bringing-the-east-midlands-canal-corridor-to-life

For more details about Team East Midlands’ UKREiiF programme, see www.eastmidlands-cca.gov.uk/ukreiif-2026

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

East Midlands investment opportunities promoted on global stage

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, joined East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward in Washington DC to promote investment opportunities across our region.

Mayor Claire travelled to the United States as part of the Bloomberg Harvard Programme for Mayors, which offers executive training, coaching and networking to support regional leaders in tackling complex challenges, driving innovation and improving local services.

During her visit, she attended an Investors Roundtable hosted by the Chancellor as part of the  International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meetings. The session brought together key investors and businesses with a strong interest in supporting growth and investment in the UK.

While in Washington, the Chancellor outlined how the government plans to go further and faster in delivering its economic strategy, focused on stability, increased investment and reform to build a stronger, more resilient economy.

She also recently highlighted that increasing investment in regions beyond London and the South East represents one of the UK’s greatest opportunities for economic growth.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

“The opportunities on offer in the East Midlands are huge. Whether it’s investing in the next generation of nuclear technology with Rolls-Royce, the developments at the Freeport, or the decision to place Great British Railway’s headquarters in Derby, this government is putting its weight behind the region, and there’s no doubt it’s an attractive destination for businesses from around the world to invest in.

“The East Midlands has the talent, ambition and vision – now with government and business working in partnership to back the East Midlands, we will drive growth, boost jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.”

East Midlands Mayor, Claire Ward, added:

“The Chancellor clearly understands the potential of our brilliant region, and the message from the government is clear: the East Midlands is building the future economy, today, and the opportunities are there to be realised.”

“Ours is a region that powered the country and shaped industry all over the world. It is already a great place to live, work, and learn, but as Mayor, I have even higher ambitions and will work with partners, innovators, and investors to achieve them.”

With ongoing regeneration, strong connectivity and major development sites across our borough, Chesterfield is increasingly positioned as a key destination for inward investment in the East Midlands.

For more information on investment opportunities in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing

Chesterfield celebrates creativity at Derbyshire Makes festival

Residents of all ages came together to celebrate Chesterfield’s creativity on Saturday, 18th April 2026, as the free Derbyshire Makes festival brought our town centre to life.

Led locally by arts charity and Chesterfield Champion, Junction Arts, the event saw artists, makers and community groups transform the town into a vibrant hub of creativity. The festival highlighted both Chesterfield’s rich heritage of making and its growing creative and cultural industries.

A major highlight of the day was The Great Chesterfield Make Off, where 40 local artists created brand-new work live in New Square. Visitors had the chance to watch creativity in action, discover emerging talent and experience the imagination and skill that define the town’s arts scene. From painters and potters to writers, performers, textile artists and designers, the Make Off turned the square into a dynamic open-air studio.

Sorbo Lounge - Derbyshire makes

At Sorbo Lounge, visitors took part in hands-on, artist-led workshops, creating their own mini masterpieces to take home.

Meanwhile, The Pavements Shopping Centre hosted MakeLand, an immersive virtual reality installation by artist John Whall, alongside Chesterfield Makers, a photographic exhibition celebrating local creatives.

The streets were filled with energy thanks to live performances from internationally renowned artist Matt Pang, whose Thingamabob show entertained crowds throughout the day.

Interactive experiences added even more to the atmosphere, including the Newton-O-Matic, a playful installation inspired by Sir Isaac Newton, and Lady of the Loom, a roaming storyteller sharing curious objects and fascinating tales.

The festival also highlighted the endangered local heritage craft of lacemaking, highlighting the work of those preserving the tradition through a special exhibition at Chesterfield Library.

Now in its second year, Derbyshire Makes is Derbyshire County Council’s flagship programme of cultural events across the county. The free festival runs annually across six distinct local hubs between Saturday, 11th April and Saturday, 16th May, 2026.

Junction Arts Project Manager, Kylie North, said:

“We had a brilliant time bringing Derbyshire Makes to Chesterfield. The town has a strong heritage of making, alongside a new, exciting and growing creative community. Local people really embraced the fun and creativity of the day, a huge thank you to everyone who came out and took part.”

Derbyshire Makes is supported by funding from Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

To explore even more cultural events happening across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events

Junction Arts is one of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Manufacturing, Stay

Penny Engineering and Paragon celebrate success at Chamber awards

Two Chesterfield Champions celebrated major success after receiving Chamber awards for outstanding achievement at the East Midlands Chamber Derbyshire Business Awards 2025/26.

Innovation, international growth and a commitment to people development were among the qualities recognised at the Chamber awards.

Penny Engineering and Paragon both took home honours on the night. Penny Engineering was named Green Business of the Year, sponsored by Mackworth Vehicle Conversions, while Tasha Mills of Paragon won the Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by fellow Chesterfield Champion, Chesterfield College Group.

Tasha Mills, Content Creator Apprentice, Paragon, said:

“I’m thrilled to be named Apprentice of the Year in Derbyshire. I joined Paragon just 11 months ago with no marketing experience, so to come this far in such a short time is incredible. This award reflects not just my growth, but the amazing support of my team and the mentorship of our group general manager, Jorden Clay. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together, and this recognition motivates me to continue pushing myself and contributing to the team’s success.”

Ashley Homes, Financial Director, Penny Engineering, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have received the Green Business of the Year Award. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire team, who continually strive to make sustainability a core part of everything we do.

Being recognised in this way really motivates us to keep pushing for even greater positive change, both within our company and in the wider community. We hope our efforts inspire others to take bold steps toward a greener future as well.”

East Midlands Chamber, Chief Executive, Scott Knowles, said:

“Mention Derbyshire anywhere in the world and people instantly think excellence in making and innovating – a reputation built from a heritage stretching back to the industrial revolution and still evolving and adapting to change. Whether the building of some of the world’s best cars or trains, its advanced manufacturing industry, digital or AI development, the county continually moves forward.

“The Chamber’s Derbyshire Business Awards shine the spotlight on standout people and organisations driving growth through their creativity, their approach and their leadership.
Recognising that talent, enabling firms to celebrate their achievements and build connections across the business community is valuable.

“I would like to extend my thanks to the partners and sponsors that made the Derbyshire Business Awards a superb event and I congratulate all the finalists and award recipients.”
Vaillant were the partner for the event.

Hosted by radio personalities Jo and Sparky from Hits Radio East Midlands, the landmark event saw winners announced across 12 categories, including:

  • Business of the Year
  • Digital Transformation Award
  • CSR Leadership Award
  • Collaboration of the Year
  • Green Business of the Year
  • Commitment to People Development Award
  • Apprentice of the Year
  • Excellence in International Growth Award
  • Education and Business Partnership of the Year
  • Excellence in Customer Service Award
  • Micro Business of the Year
  • Small Business of the Year
  • Innovation of the Year

Browse more local business awards and opportunities: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/promote-your-business

Penny Engineering and Paragon are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing

Funding boost for brownfield housing

The Mayor of the East Midlands has secured £57.2 million to deliver over 1,900 homes on brownfield land, including new developments in Mastin Moor, Chesterfield.

The funding will be used over the next four years to support the construction of more than 1,900 homes across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire. These homes will be built on previously developed sites which are now derelict or underused, offering an opportunity to deliver much-needed housing while making use of existing infrastructure and community connections.

This latest investment adds to more than £36 million already secured, taking the total brownfield funding for the region to over £93 million.

Building work has already begun on several sites, including Mastin Moor in Chesterfield, which forms a key part of the programme.

Mastin Moor will see the delivery of 18 energy-efficient homes, marking a step forward in efforts to expand affordable housing supply locally. The development will include 13 council homes on Miller Avenue and a further five houses on Edale Road.

In total, the site will provide seven four-bedroom homes and 11 two-bedroom homes. All properties will be allocated to families on Chesterfield Borough Council’s housing register, helping address local demand.

Henry Boot Construction has been appointed to deliver the project, with all homes designed to meet A-rated energy-efficiency standards.

Other developments are also underway at Balderton Rise in Newark and Alder Close in Shirebrook, Derbyshire, contributing to the wider regional housing strategy.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is continuing to work with local authorities, landowners, developers, and Homes England to unlock further sites. The Brownfield Housing Fund is expected to act as a catalyst for additional investment while supporting long-term economic growth.

The funding forms part of a wider £234 million Government package awarded to seven Mayoral Combined Authorities to unlock up to 8,000 new homes on brownfield land.

The announcement comes alongside plans for potential new towns and the launch of a National Housing Bank, as part of broader efforts to address the housing crisis, support first-time buyers, and create jobs across the construction sector.

Mayor Claire said:

“Through our previous Brownfield Housing Fund allocation, I can see the appetite that partners have to turn ambition into action. I’m looking forward to working with them to unlock sites, attract further investment, and deliver real change for our residents both now and in the future.”

As EMCCA continues to work with local authorities, landowners, developers, and Homes England, the Brownfield Housing Fund will act as a catalyst for further investment. The programme is helping to meet housing demand, regenerate communities, and support long-term and inclusive economic growth across the region.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed, said:

“People want real change – homes they can afford, local infrastructure that works, and good jobs in thriving communities.” This comes alongside the confirmation of seven sites for potential new towns and the launch of a National Housing Bank.

The Government said these measures form part of its “commitment to ease the housing crisis, supporting first-time buyers, and creating thousands of jobs across construction and related industries”.

To discover further local developments in and around the area, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing