Property and Construction

Free brick and groundworks training to be provided at Chesterfield Construction Skills Hub

A new pilot aims to attract new entrants to work in the construction industry.

Chesterfield College Group has partnered with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to deliver the Access to Homebuilding pilot scheme to attract new entrants into the construction industry. The pilot scheme is the latest in a line of initiatives CITB has undertaken as part of its commitment to supporting the Government’s homebuilding target of 1.5 million new homes.

The pilot will see three different 4–6-week intensive courses take place on-site at the Construction Skills Hub at Mastin Moor, Chesterfield. Located within a live 650-unit housing development, the courses provide a unique opportunity for real-time learning and working directly with employers.

CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook report forecasts that about 150 extra bricklayers and groundworkers will be needed in the East Midlands each year for the next four years to meet demand.

The three courses on offer from October 2025 are:

  • A 4-week intensive Bricklaying course for anyone aged 18+ and unemployed
  • A 6-week Bricklaying Upskilling programme for Labourers (one day a week, must 18+)
  • A 6-week Groundworks Upskilling programme for Labourers (one day a week, must be 18+)

The 4-week intensive Bricklaying course is designed to give unemployed individuals aged 18+ hands-on skills and site experience with a clear pathway to working in the industry. Attendees will also have the opportunity to attain the industry-required health and safety CSCS card to enable them to start work on-site in industry.

The 6-week programmes for Labourers offer employers the chance to upskill their workforce with practical Brickwork and/or Groundworks training, equipping attendees with site-ready skills.

Danny Clarke, Engagement Director, England, at CITB said: “We are delighted to launch this partnership with Chesterfield College Group, these sorts of initiatives are vital to attract a diverse range of new talent into the construction industry and address the skills shortage.

“The average construction salary is nearly £7,000 higher than the UK average. So, if you want a well-paid, fulfilling career that teaches you valuable skills for life, then look no further than the construction industry.”

To find out more about the free courses on offer and to apply, visit https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/citb

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

Chesterfield Champions drive investment, innovation and collaboration across the region

Chesterfield’s business community continues to demonstrate its strength and diversity, with four Chesterfield Champions making headlines for their contributions to business growth, regeneration, and regional pride.

Mitchells Chartered Accountants and CMP Legal have successfully supported the sale of AGG Electrical Safety Testing to private investment firm Rose Street Partners. Founded by brothers Andy and Gavin Griffiths, AGG has grown from a local PAT testing provider into a nationwide facilities management business. The Chesterfield-based firms worked closely to ensure a smooth and tax-efficient sale, protecting the founders’ interests throughout.

Gavin Griffiths said:

“The collaboration between Mitchells and CMP Legal made what could have been a stressful process incredibly smooth. We felt protected by their professionalism and vast knowledge throughout.”

FHP Property Consultants, acting on behalf of Marroe Developments, are marketing Egstow View Business Park in Clay Cross, a major new industrial and trade counter scheme bringing four acres of previously vacant land back into use. Located just off Junction 29 of the M1, the site has already attracted national occupiers including Howdens, Screwfix and Starbucks. The development forms part of a wider mixed-use scheme and benefits from proximity to the £24.1m Clay Cross Town Deal regeneration programme.

Darran Severn of FHP said:

“The scheme is really starting to take shape and it will not be long until units are available for occupation. The location and prominence of the site is excellent, and this is evident by the calibre of businesses committing before practical completion.”

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, the region’s official tourism body and Chesterfield Champion, has launched a new campaign to boost off-peak tourism and support local visitor economy businesses. The initiative encourages year-round travel to the area, highlighting seasonal experiences and hidden gems across the Peak District and Derbyshire. The campaign aims to extend visitor stays and increase spend, helping businesses thrive beyond the traditional summer season.

BSP Consulting has played a key role in one of the East Midlands’ most striking new landmarks, a life-sized sculpture of a Lancaster Bomber titled On Freedom’s Wings. The structural engineering firm designed the steel framework, podium and foundations for the 29-metre-high installation near Norton Disney.

Carl Hilton, Managing Director of BSP Consulting, said: “This project has been the result of many people devoting their time, expertise, and energy to move it forward through each stage. It has been a true collaboration of professionals, all united by the desire to achieve something remarkable.”

These stories reflect the impact of Chesterfield Champions across sectors, from professional services and property to tourism and engineering, and showcase the collaborative spirit driving growth and innovation across the region.

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

Chesterfield Borough Council Chief Executive announces retirement

Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, has announced he will be retiring at the start of May 2026, after eighteen years in the role.

Huw has been instrumental in developing Chesterfield’s £2 billion growth programme and championing the importance of local people being able to benefit from the jobs and skills opportunities that such growth creates.

He has reset the values of the council, delivered improvements across all service areas, including multi-million investments in sports and cultural facilities and introduced a demanding performance culture focused on results and success.

Dr Huw Bowen Speaking at the 2024 Chesterfield Investment Summit

Huw said, “Chesterfield is a very special place. It has been a privilege to serve the people of the town and borough, and my aim each and every day has been to improve Chesterfield and the quality of life of its residents.

“I feel very proud to have been part of the council’s improvement journey over the past twenty-three years and fortunate to have worked alongside so many dedicated councillors, talented staff and committed partners.

“I leave the council in a strong place to ensure that Chesterfield sits at the heart of the government’s planned reforms for how local government is organised in Derbyshire.

“It will be a sad day when my time at the council ends. Until then, I remain committed to working tirelessly on the council’s priorities and to ensuring a smooth handover to the new Chief Executive when they are appointed.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the council, commended Huw’s outstanding commitment to delivering excellent public services to Chesterfield’s communities.

Councillor Gilby said: “Huw has served the borough of Chesterfield with inspiring vision, determination and good humour for over 23 years and I can honestly say that – thanks to his exceptional leadership – the borough is a better place to live, work and visit.

“There have of course been challenges along the way, including the global pandemic and over a decade of austerity which has eroded local government budgets. But Huw has always remained focussed, and with an unparalleled passion for delivering the very best for the people of Chesterfield.

“During his time, Huw has forged excellent relationships throughout the council, with councillors and the workforce. He has also been a champion of strong partnerships, building valuable networks with partners across the borough and wider afield, including from the business and voluntary sectors, to ensure our ambitious plans are achieved.

“Huw will be with us for a further seven months, and in due course the council will move towards the appointment of a new Chief Executive, ensuring a smooth transition as we continue on our journey towards local government reorganisation in Derbyshire in the coming years.”

Dr Huw Bowen, Cllr Tricia Gilby, Mayor Claire Ward and Andrew Byrne at the East Midlands Pavillion at UKREiiF,

Huw was instrumental in the creation of Destination Chesterfield and has served as a board member over the last 15 years.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said, “I would like to thank Huw for his commitment to a place-led partnership approach to support economic growth and the people of the Borough of Chesterfield.  15 years ago, this led to the creation of Destination Chesterfield and since then, Huw has worked alongside other board members to develop an environment where the public, private and voluntary sectors are working together collectively for Chesterfield.”

“Huw’s expertise, ability to build strong relationships and his passion for the borough of Chesterfield have made the Destination Chesterfield Partnership stronger and contributed to its ongoing success.  The board look forward to continuing to work with Huw until May to shape the next phase of Destination Chesterfield and how we support the delivery of Chesterfield’s £2 billion regeneration journey.”

Huw will be showcasing Chesterfield’s £2 billion growth programme at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November – Find out more and book a place.

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

Summit to spotlight how investment in Chesterfield is fuelling inclusive growth for the East Midlands

Business owners are invited to discover how Chesterfield’s ongoing regeneration is unlocking significant investment opportunities and driving inclusive growth across the region. 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit takes place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at the Casa Hotel. The event will provide an in-depth update on the transformative projects shaping the town’s future. It will highlight how regeneration is creating new opportunities for local people, businesses, and investors. 

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, will address the summit, sharing her vision and priorities for the East Midlands.

Claire Ward commented: “Chesterfield is part of our region’s ambitions for inclusive growth. By working together, we can ensure that investment benefits every community, creating new opportunities and a brighter future for all. I look forward to engaging with local businesses and partners at the summit.” 

Andrew Byrne, Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, will discuss what inclusive growth means to the Devonshire Group and how this is being delivered across their sites in the borough.

Andrew Byrne said: “Inclusive growth is about ensuring that everyone in Chesterfield can share in the benefits of regeneration. At Devonshire Group, we are committed to creating places that support local jobs, skills, and communities. The summit is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the progress being made and to invite more partners to join us on this journey.” 

A key feature of this year’s summit will be a panel discussion focusing on the East Midlands Investment Zone site in Staveley. The session will explore the unique opportunities and benefits the Investment Zone brings to the borough, including its potential to attract new businesses, create skilled jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth. Simon White from Tawnywood will join a panel to share insights on how the Investment Zone is supporting business expansion and innovation in Chesterfield. 

Organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with the Devonshire Group and Tawnywood, the event will showcase major regeneration projects across the borough.  Dr Huw Bowen, Chief Executive Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council, will provide updates on the £2 billion of regeneration projects across the borough. 

There will also be a focus on activity in Chesterfield town centre.  This includes an update from Dominic Staniforth, Chair of  Chesterfield Town Board, and insights from  Amy Revell, Co-Founder of We Are Spaces, a commercial interior firm, which is refurbishing an office space in the town centre. 

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, added: 

“The Investment Summit is a fantastic opportunity to spread the word about all the incredible things happening in Chesterfield. I look forward to welcoming local businesses and investors to the summit and discussing with them how they can play a key role in Chesterfield’s future.” 

The Chesterfield Investment Summit is also supported by East Midlands Chamber and We Are Spaces. 

To see full event details and secure your place, please book online at:
https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/investment-summit/ 

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

Work begins on new bungalow development amid growing national demand

Construction is now underway on a new development of 17 high-quality bungalows in Wingerworth, designed exclusively for people aged 55 and over. The homes are being delivered by Chesterfield-based housebuilder and Chesterfield Champions, Stancliffe Homes, following planning approval from North East Derbyshire District Council.

The development, named Kingswood Park, will feature five distinct styles of two- and three-bedroom bungalows. Each home will be built to high energy-efficiency standards and finished to the premium specification Stancliffe Homes is known for. Interest in the scheme is already strong, with enquiries coming in before any formal advertising has begun.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Kingswood Park, said: “We’ve already had so many enquiries about when these new homes will be available to the market. Given the strong demand for our high-quality new build homes in the locality, we’re expecting these further homes to be hugely popular.”

The start of work at Kingswood Park comes as national research highlights a chronic shortage of bungalows across the UK. A recent survey by the HomeOwners Alliance found that 38% of homeowners aged 55 and over would prefer a bungalow for their next move. Yet figures from the National House Building Council show that bungalows made up just 1% of new home registrations last year.

Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance, said: “Our research shows that too many older homeowners feel stuck in homes that no longer work for them.”

Stancliffe Homes has built bungalows across many of its schemes consistently for the last seven years and recognises the growing need for suitable homes for the UK’s ageing population. The company notes that prioritising the construction of bungalows isn’t just about meeting demand, it’s about enabling older people to live independently, stay connected to communities, and free up larger family homes for younger generations.

The homes at Kingswood Park are designed to support independent living while reducing environmental impact. Each bungalow will include air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solar panels, EV charging points and other energy-efficient features. These homes not only support sustainable living but also help reduce energy bills and future-proof housing for changing needs.

By building bungalows in established communities like Wingerworth, Stancliffe Homes is helping older residents stay connected while enjoying the benefits of modern, manageable homes.

Discover more about living in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Inspiring the next generation of construction workers

Young people from across Derbyshire took part in an event which aimed to provide them with more information about the range of careers available in the construction industry and gave them the opportunity to try some of the skills needed.

During the two-day event at the Construction Skills Hub, the participants took part in a variety of activities including bricklaying, joinery, roofing, operating a mini digger, a tour of the Mastin Moor site and an interactive challenge where they needed to plan and construct towers using spaghetti and marshmallows. They also had the opportunity to speak with experts from the sector about opportunities in construction.

The event was organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, Action for Construction and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) with G F Tomlinson, Devonshire Group, Harron Homes, Drury Joinery, and Bowmer & Kirland supporting the event.

It was held at the Staveley Town Deal funded Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor, which provides an innovative approach to construction training with students studying on a live construction site, where they can gain both skills and experience in the sector.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management said: “It’s fantastic to see so many young people take part in this event which is a fun and engaging way of providing information on the roles available in the construction industry. It will give young people the experience they need to make informed decisions about their future and how they can have a great career in our borough.

“Collaboration like this between businesses, the public sector and education sector is crucial to providing relevant and up to date information for young people, and I want to thank all our partners who helped ensure this event was a success.”

Luke Mantle, Director of School – Construction, Plumbing, Electrical and Automotive at Chesterfield College, said: “Our construction skills hub is an innovative site for education, and we are delighted to welcome the eight schools to enjoy an invaluable experience here. Construction and wider practical skills are often under-represented in secondary curriculum, so days like today are crucial to show leaners the benefits of studying in a different way.

“A career in the construction industry is exciting, rewarding and can take you to see many parts of the world. This careers event will be one of many ways in which we showcase the benefits of studying in this industry. We strive to work with as many learners as we can and would welcome schools to contact us to join in on these experiences.”

Alex McClymont, Engagement Advisor for Derby and Derbyshire at CITB, said: “These events are something we get really excited for each time. Getting new people in to construction is a big challenge and one we’re addressing head on, alongside local partners. Groups of year 9 and 10 students from local schools, rolled up their sleeves and explored construction through activities like bricklaying, joinery, machine driving, sparking interest in rewarding careers. Events like these are vital for inspiring diverse young talent to help address the industry’s skills gap, ensuring a strong pipeline for our local workforce.”

Rachel Cracknell, Head of Personal Development at Netherthorpe School, said: “This has been a very exciting opportunity for our students. It has provided them with hands-on experience across a range of construction trades and has not only helped raise aspirations but has given them the chance to meet potential future employers.

“The students have absolutely loved the experience and for some, this has helped to confirm that they want to aspire for a career in construction. We would like to thank everyone involved in planning such an inspiring and creative event and would love the opportunity to come back again in the future!”

The pupils who took part in the event came from a variety of schools across Derbyshire including Netherthorpe School, Whittington Green School, Springwell Community College, Holly House School, Ashgate Croft School, Mercia Academy, Derby Cathedral School, St Benedicts Catholic Voluntary Academy, Ecclesbourne School and The Bolsover School.

The Construction Skills Hub provides students with trade-based skills and qualifications in things like groundworks, brickwork, and joinery on a live construction site. This allows them to also gain the experience needed to access careers in the construction sector, and in time the Hub will support degree level apprenticeships.

Over ten years, the Hub aims to provide careers insights, training and work experience for over 5,000 learners with qualifications delivered by Chesterfield College and the University of Derby.

To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/staveley-town-deal-projects/construction-skills-hub

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

Work begins at Hartington Commerce Park

Work has started to build a new industrial site in Staveley that will help attract new businesses and create more jobs as part of a regional growth strategy.

Hartington Commerce Park is a 20-hectare site that has outline planning permission for industrial and warehouse development and work has started with a new access road which will connect the site with Hall Lane. The project is led and owned by Tawnywood Ltd.

Development of the site is primarily funded by the private sector but funding from the Staveley Town Deal is being used for enabling works on the site, including the creation of the new access point and connecting the site with utilities.

Once complete Hartington Commerce Park will form part of the Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone which will support the growth of the advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors.

The initial works have seen the new entrance to the site cleared in preparation for an access road and utility connections which will help encourage further development of the site.

The Staveley, Chesterfield East Midlands Investment Zone is part of an initiative funded by the Government and led by East Midlands Combined County Authority. It aims to drive economic growth and create thousands of jobs across the region.

The next phases of development at Hartington Commerce Park will see the access road completed. Buildings will then be developed as businesses confirm they want space on the site.

Learn more about the site and the East Midlands Investment Zone at the Chesterfield Investment Summit on the 5th November at the Casa Hotel – Book your place now.

Discover more about the projects of the Staveley Town Deal.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is being given a new lease of life

The refurbishment of Barrow Hill Memorial Hall is progressing rapidly and will create an enhanced community building with healthcare facilities.

Barrow Hill Community Trust is leading the multi-million pound refurbishment of its historic home which is partly funded by the Staveley Town Deal.

The construction began in January 2025 and has progressed quickly with the installation of a new roof and skylight, a new heating system for the whole building and the internal layout of the building has been adapted to create healthcare facilities and an expanded community space.

The next phase of works will see internal walls finished, a kitchen fitted out, the relaying of historic parquet flooring and works to finish the ground floor – ready to welcome the community back in December 2025.

The first phase of works is funded by the Staveley Town Deal and a recent visit showed how much progress has been made.

The first phase of works, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, is focussed on the ground floor, and work to protect the building. It includes the installation of a new roof and skylight which will help brighten up a new community café bar, the creation of new spaces which will be used for healthcare provision, and improvements to essential systems in the building which will allow it to be a valuable community facility for many years to come.

Barrow Hill Community Trust has big plans for future phases of the project with other external funding being used to create a new community reading room, a venue suitable for live music and events, a family centre, and an enhanced space for youth provision.

Discover more about Staveley Town Deal Projects

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

Capital Angling hooks unit at Markham Vale

Capital Angling has snapped up the first unit at ARK, a new £27million GDV scheme at Markham Vale, a flagship industrial scheme delivered by HBD, part of Henry Boot.

The leading fishing brand has taken a 17,050sq ft unit at the sustainable new industrial and logistics (I&L) development close to the M1 in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Work began on-site in Spring 2025 to deliver the first phase of ARK, which includes four units ranging from 17,000sq ft to 36,000sq ft. The buildings will complete later this year.

ARK is being developed by Origin, a joint venture partnership between HBD and Feldberg Capital.

Origin is committed to delivering ESG-compliant I&L space and ARK is no exception, with all four units targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings.

HBD recently submitted a planning application for the final 53,000sq ft unit at the scheme. Work is expected to begin on-site later this year subject to planning consent.

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is an attractive location for fast-growing businesses like Capital Angling, which can take advantage of its strategic location right off the M1 and its excellent infrastructure. We’re pleased to be able to provide the business with high-quality, sustainable space as it continues to expand; we’ve no doubt that ARK will prove a very successful location.”

Jamie Acheson, Managing Director of Feldberg Capital, commented: “Securing Capital Angling as our first pre-let at ARK marks an important milestone for the development, with their decision validating our focus on delivering best-in-class, sustainable industrial and logistics space in strategic UK locations. We look forward to building on this success over the coming months as we approach practical completion.”

Markham Vale is a landmark 200-acre I&L scheme delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. An award-winning development, it sits at the heart of the motorway network with direct access to the M1 via J29a. More than 2,600 new jobs have been created since work began, with occupiers including Great Bear and Sterigenics.

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Chesterfield’s manufacturing festival inspires next generation of engineers and innovators

Chesterfield recognises its manufacturers and engineers over the next month through the return of an annual celebratory campaign. Taking place from 25 September until the end of October, the Made in Chesterfield festival aims to change perceptions of the manufacturing industry by connecting Chesterfield’s students with real-world experiences in local advanced manufacturing and engineering businesses.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership in association with Chesterfield College, the initiative supports businesses in showcasing the sector and creating a pipeline of talent while giving students access to cutting-edge technologies, from precision engineering to sustainable manufacturing practices.

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? Perhaps only if they have parents working in the sector. Made in Chesterfield helps our young people see what’s possible. It also shows employers like us at MSE the future talent being nurtured right here.”

To celebrate National Manufacturing Day, the 2025 festival introduces the Innovation Challenge, where students team up with local manufacturers to solve real-world problems.  They’ll visit workplaces, collaborate on ideas, and present their solutions at a showcase event at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Ltd, said: “The Innovation Challenge is an exciting way to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. It connects the classroom to real careers and gives young people a genuine opportunity to develop ideas and confidence.”

The festival showcases the links between the education sector and business, aiming to inspire a pipeline of future talent to consider a career in manufacturing.

Claire Godfrey, Deputy Principal at Chesterfield College Group, the headline sponsor of the festival, added: “Our new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre will equip students with the latest industry skills, including green technologies and digital innovation. Supporting the Made in Chesterfield Festival allows us to showcase these skills and facilities to both young people and employers as we continually help to supply a future-ready workforce locally. 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.”

Other highlights in the festival include the Made in Chesterfield Business Event on the 8th October at Chesterfield College.  Businesses, head teachers and careers leads will have the opportunity to network and discover more about the College’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre.

Businesses taking part in this year’s festival include United Cast Bar Ltd, MSE Hiller, Weightron Bilanciai, Penny Engineering, Fast Signs, Superior Wellness, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd, Fast Signs and CBE+

Also supporting this year’s festival are Chesterfield Borough Council, the EMCCA Career Hub, Workwise, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and North East Derbyshire District Council.

For more information, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made-in-chesterfield/

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

Upscaling Chesterfield firms can get funding and support from new programme

Businesses in Chesterfield looking to grow are invited to join a new programme of events and workshops made up of tailored academic and business support, with funding also available.

The new High Growth Academy aims to equip scaling businesses with the skills, knowledge and resources they need to innovate and grow sustainably. The Academy is delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of EMCCA (the East Midlands Combined County Authority) and in partnership with the University of Derby, University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University.

The Academy is part of the wider High Growth Accelerator project that has received £450, 352 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). It is open to businesses that can demonstrate 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over the past three consecutive years.

High Growth Academy support includes:

  • A series of workshops reflecting the needs of businesses at different stages of their growth journeys: ‘Growth Drivers’ for early-stage businesses with sessions on subjects such as sales, leadership and emerging markets; and ‘Growth Builders’ for senior leaders in more established businesses, with sessions on subjects such as governance, structure and performance management.
  • Monthly High Growth forums enabling businesses to access support, hear from industry experts and share insight with peers. The first forum, taking place on 6th November, “Big Business, Small Feel: Strategy, Systems, and the Human Touch” will be led by Professor Marvin Cooke OBE, former Executive Vice President for Manufacturing at Toyota Motor Europe. It will explore how organisations can maintain a personalised, human-centred approach while scaling operations through strategic planning and robust systems

Additional support to help businesses with their growth journeys is being offered as part of the wider High Growth Accelerator project:

  • One-to-one business support from a High Growth Adviser including advice, mentoring and diagnostic support on areas of relevance to the business
  • Innovation Vouchers of up to £5,000 to support businesses in accessing specialist support from university innovation delivery centres including on food innovation, chemistry innovation, aerospace technology, precision manufacturing, design matters, and virtual and immersive production
  • Student placement support of up to £2,000 to cover the salary cost of an intern for a minimum 8-week period to work on a defined project including, for example, developing new products, bringing new products to market or increasing sustainability
  • Training bursaries of up to £2,000 to attend one of the Chamber’s highly regarded Commercial Training courses, including its Director and Manager Development Programmes

East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said: “Growing at pace is only possible if the business has the right products, processes and people in place. Together with our partners at the University of Derby, University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, East Midlands Chamber has curated a programme of expert High Growth Academy support through its High Growth Accelerator project.

“Our aim is to equip businesses with the skills and knowledge they need to rise to the challenges of today’s business environment, not least tackling recruitment, skills, cashflow and funding concerns. Whether a business is seeking to drive innovation, improve how it manages its finances, adapt its structures or coach its leaders and emerging leaders in high performance, we have the expertise and resources to turn ideas into real action.”

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “Businesses across the East Midlands have boundless potential for growth, but those same businesses tell me every day just how few hours in the day there are to think and plan for this. The High Growth Academy makes that space, drawing on the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s UKSPF funding but also expertise from business and academia. So, whether your business is starting or scaling, this could be the programme for you.”

Businesses can register by completing the Registration Form and a High Growth adviser will respond.

High Growth Academy workshops can be booked here.

The Chamber’s schedule of Commercial Training courses, for which eligible businesses can apply for a £2,000 subsidy to attend, can be accessed on the East Midlands Chamber site.

If you would like more information on business support available to businesses in Chesterfield visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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