Property and Construction

Chesterfield Champions driving growth, recognition, and safety

Chesterfield Champions are marking achievements in branding, national recognition, and skills development.

Addooco launches its next phase with a new brand

Addooco, specialists in private cloud, connectivity, and managed IT solutions, has unveiled a new brand identity. They developed the rebrand in collaboration with fellow Chesterfield Champion, Defeye Creative.

The rebrand represents a step in Addooco’s growth from a regional IT partner to a nationally recognised provider of infrastructure and digital transformation services. Addooco has reorganised its services into six categories: Complete, Grid, Clear Skies, Works, Secure, and Tech Team. A redesigned website is now live at Addooco — Make IT Happen

The project introduced messaging such as “Make It Happen” and “Engineers of Change” to reflect Addooco’s practical approach to IT solutions.

“This wasn’t just a design refresh; it’s a statement of who we’ve become,” said Richard Walters, CEO at Addooco. “We’ve grown with our clients and evolved with the market, and now we have a brand that reflects our ambition without losing our approachability.”

Defeye’s Director, Matt Pritchard, added: “Helping Addooco evolve visually and strategically was a privilege. We’ve worked with them for years and saw this as a chance to tell a bigger story, one of growth, ambition, and local excellence.”

Both Addooco and Defeye are proud members of Destination Chesterfield’s Chesterfield Champions network. Their collaboration highlights how local businesses can raise regional and national profiles.

ADDOOCO logo

 

East Midlands Chamber shortlisted for National Chamber of the Year

The British Chambers of Commerce has shortlisted East Midlands Chamber as a finalist for the “Chamber of the Year” award 2025. This is the highest recognition available to accredited chambers across the UK.

The Chamber, which supports businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire, has delivered a wide-ranging programme in recent years. This includes the £4.6m UKSPF-funded Accelerator project, which since 2023 has:

  • Supported more than 13,600 firms
  • Secured £9.7m in funding, grants, and loans
  • Helped safeguard or create 1,101 jobs
  • Produced decarbonisation plans for 1,093 businesses
  • Assisted 2,607 companies in improving productivity
  • Supported 196 exporters and 143 start-ups
  • Helped 400 SMEs adopt new technologies

“UK Chamber of the Year is the highest level of recognition a chamber of commerce in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland can get, so to be announced as a finalist is tremendous,” said Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber.

“Being shortlisted is a testament to the sheer dedication and hard work of the East Midlands Chamber team, underlining their commitment to championing the business community every day and leading growth across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire.”

The British Chambers of Commerce will announce the winner in October.

Scott Knowles - East Midlands Chamber

DBCP strengthens building safety with new inspector

DBCP is the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. It has appointed Registered Building Inspector Luke Merrey to its team.

Luke’s background in property sales and lettings adds sector-wide insight. He holds 2A Registered Status with the Building Safety Competence Foundation, and has a Distinction in the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying. He is close to completing his Level 5 Diploma and is working towards 2F status.

His responsibilities will include plan checking, site inspections, advising applicants, and maintaining detailed records to ensure developments comply with building regulations.

“I’m thrilled to start my new role and continue my journey in Building Control. I wish I’d found out about Building Control when I was at school,” said Luke. “I am genuinely passionate about all areas of the sector. Seeing my knowledge grow through the LABC Academy Scheme has been amazing, and I am delighted to bring my learning and experience to architects, builders, and property owners throughout High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, added: “We are delighted to have Luke on board. He has a deep understanding of the sector from both an inspector and a property manager perspective.”

Luke’s appointment highlights DBCP’s ongoing investment in qualified professionals. The industry is facing a national skills shortage following stricter regulations being introduced after the Grenfell tragedy.

Luke Merrey - DBCP smiling

For more information on how to become one of our Chesterfield Champions click here.

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

Industrial park in Chesterfield to be auctioned

Derbyshire County Council’s 29,000 sq ft Cobnar Wood Close industrial units development in Chesterfield is to go up for auction this month with a £1.35m guide price.

SDL Property Auctions, part of Eddisons, has been appointed to sell the 12-unit development, which is home to businesses such as industrial pumps distributor Applied Pumps, on behalf of the local authority. The units will be included in the auctioneer’s next live-streamed property auction on 25 September.

Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, which currently generate a total rental income of £160,000, set to rise to £170,000 next year, are located next to Chesterfield Trading Estate on the A61, four miles from Chesterfield and 10 miles from Sheffield.

Andrew Parker, partner and auctioneer at SDL Property Auctions said: “Like many local authorities, Derbyshire County Council is reviewing its property portfolio as part of wider financial pressures. Cobnar Wood is a solid industrial investment with a healthy mix of tenants, and its location close to Chesterfield and Sheffield makes it particularly attractive.

“We’re seeing strong demand for well-located industrial space across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire and, with rental income already secured and due to increase, this site is well placed to benefit from that trend. We expect it to generate keen interest at auction later this month.”

For more information about Cobnar Wood Industrial Units, or to register to bid remotely online, by phone or by proxy, visit sdlauctions.co.uk.

Discover more about available commercial property in Chesterfield

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Chesterfield is named one of the best places to live in Derbyshire

Chesterfield has been named one of the top 10 places to live in Derbyshire by lifestyle guide Muddy Stilettos, reinforcing the town’s growing reputation as a destination of choice for families, professionals and businesses.

The accolade highlights Chesterfield’s unique blend of countryside charm, community spirit and urban convenience. With its location on the edge of the Peak District, excellent transport links, and vibrant local culture, the town continues to attract people looking for quality of life and opportunity.

This latest recognition follows a series of national endorsements. Chesterfield was recently featured in The Guardian’s list of Britain’s happiest places to live and retained its title as the happiest town in the East Midlands in the Rightmove Happy at Home Index.

Residents consistently praise Chesterfield’s access to green spaces, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community. The town is home to one of the oldest open-air markets in England and the iconic Crooked Spire Church, which stands as a symbol of Chesterfield’s rich heritage. Its historic streets, cultural venues and growing number of independent shops and eateries contribute to a lively town centre that blends tradition with modern living.

Chesterfield also continues to invest in its future. Ongoing regeneration of the town centre, new housing developments, and improvements to local infrastructure are helping to create a place where people can live well, work productively and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:  “This recognition reflects what so many of us already know: Chesterfield is a fantastic place to live. We’re proud of our heritage, our green spaces, and our welcoming community. With continued investment and regeneration, we’re building a place that offers opportunity, quality of life and a real sense of belonging.”

To explore what makes Chesterfield a great place to live, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/living.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction

Planning approved for Eyres building redevelopment

Plans to redevelop the former Eyres furniture store in Chesterfield town centre have been approved.

A local developer will transform the former store into 20 apartments and 10 commercial units, starting from 500 sq ft.

The Eyres building holds deep historical value in Chesterfield. The developers aim to honour its legacy while giving the space a fresh purpose.

Jamal Khan, Lettings Director at Highgates, said: “We’re proud to market the ground-floor units. As an independent business, we understand how vital it is to support local entrepreneurs and help them grow in Chesterfield.”

“This mixed-use design makes smarter use of the site and helps build a vibrant, sustainable local economy. New residents will live directly above revitalised shops, creating a lively community hub.”

“This project shows strong confidence in Chesterfield’s property market. Demand remains high for well-located homes and retail spaces. With attractive lease terms and incentives, the development offers a great opportunity for local businesses.”

Work is expected to start shortly to prepare the retail units at the former Eyres Furniture Store.

For more details on the available units, contact Highgates Sales & Lettings at info@highgatesestates.co.uk or call 0114 312 4994.

This latest announcement follows a range of investments and openings in Chesterfield town centre recently, which include:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield Town Centre

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

New Oak Estates recognised in best estate agent guide 2025

New Oak Estates has been identified as one of the top estate agents in the UK and features in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025

The Best Estate Agent Guide was created to help sellers and landlords find the top agents in their area. Each year, the Guide is compiled following a rigorous assessment which analyses more than 11,300 agents against criteria which matter most to homeowners, including property marketing, customer service, and results.

This year, New Oak Estates was among the winners, taking home a Gold Award

“We are delighted to have been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025.” Paul Flitter, New Oak Estates Director, said. “This industry-wide assessment rewards the agents who meet the very highest standards, and we are thrilled to have been recognised within the Guide as one of the best in the UK for the second year running!

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live.  Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal.  Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.  “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

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

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

Business awards success for Chesterfield Champions

Chesterfield’s business community is proving its strength this summer, with a series of business award wins and shortlists placing local firms in the spotlight.

Mortgage 1st, Roy Peters Estates, and CMP Legal, all Chesterfield Champions, have received major recognition for their innovation, leadership, and community impact.

Together, their successes showcase the talent and ambition fuelling the town’s economy.

Mortgage 1st – Industry leadership and community impact

Mortgage 1st, a Chesterfield-based brokerage, is celebrating an outstanding summer, earning national titles and local recognition.

In June, the firm was crowned Mortgage Broker of the Year (11–50 advisers) at the Financial Reporter Broker’s Choice Awards, winning for the third consecutive year.

The following month, Managing Director Jon Stones was named Business Leader of the Year at the prestigious British Mortgage Awards, praised for his people-first culture and ambitious leadership. Regarded as one of the industry’s most respected events, the awards are often called ‘the Oscars of the mortgage world’.

That same month, Mortgage 1st also received the Business Community Award at the Bolsover Place Programme anniversary event, recognising its inspiring work with schools and young people.

Adding to the celebrations, three team members are finalists in the Women’s Recognition Awards this October:

  • Lisa Stones, Operations Director – Women in the Mortgage Industry
  • Hayley Port, Mortgage & Protection Adviser – Protection Adviser of the Year
  • Nicola Hardy, Senior Specialist Adviser – Specialist Lending Adviser of the Year

Judges praised Jon’s leadership, stating: “A really close category of exceptional leaders, but Jon stood out with a business performance that demonstrated growth and diversification, a culture that focuses on people before results, and an ambition and commitment to his firm and market that was really impressive.”

“It’s been another fantastic year so far for our business. Jon & I are extremely proud of what we continue to achieve alongside our talented team,” Operations Director Lisa Stones commented.

Mortgage 1st Business awards

Roy Peters Estates – Award-winning standards

Roy Peters Estates is also celebrating both individual and company success.

After dedicated study, apprentice George completed his Level 3 in Housing and Property Management with Distinction. He also gained his Apprenticeship and Membership of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (Propertymark).

George will be presented with his certificates by Founder and Managing Partner Roy Cutt. The presentation will take place in the company’s garden.

The garden was created by the directors to recognise the team’s efforts in achieving the British Property Award. The firm has once again been named Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield at the British Property Awards. This marks its second year running and fourth time overall.

Judged through mystery shopping, the award highlights the consistently high standards delivered by the team.

Roy Peters Estates has also joined the Propertymark Company Advantage programme, further underlining its commitment to industry-leading standards.

“Roy, Emma, and Richard, Directors of Roy Peters Estates, are delighted to welcome George as a full member of our team following his great results and industry qualifications, and also wish to recognise the hard work of every member of our small team in ensuring we retained the Best Letting Agency in Chesterfield Award for the second year running.”

Roy Peters and George

CMP Legal – National recognition in the legal sector

CMP Legal has been shortlisted for six awards across the Yorkshire Legal Awards and the East Midlands Chamber Enterprising Women Awards.

Co-founder and solicitor Anna Cattee is a finalist for Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year. She was recognised for leading £140 million worth of corporate transactions in just 12 months. A record rivaling some of the region’s largest law firms. She is also one of the few Notary Publics in the region and a mother to three young children.

“Over that time, I’ve gone from being an employed junior lawyer to a salaried partner and now co-founder of a successful law firm,” Anna said. “These award nominations are wonderful recognition for everyone at CMP Legal. Without teamwork, we could not have achieved what we have in less than five years.”

CMP Legal is also a finalist in three further categories at the Yorkshire Legal Awards:

Trainee of the Year (Harrison Easley), Employment Law, and Corporate & Commercial.

Harrison’s nomination celebrates his innovative work introducing AI into the firm’s practice management system.

The firm is also shortlisted in the Enterprising Women Awards for Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year. Winners will be announced on 26 September 2025.

These nominations follow national recognition earlier this year. CMP Legal was listed in the Legal 500 for Corporate and Commercial. An exceptional achievement for its first submission.
The firm also won Niche Law Firm of the Year and Legal and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year at the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

Anna CMP Legal

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

DBCP apprenticeship programme grows future talent

A former teaching assistant from Sheffield has taken her first steps towards a new career after joining DBCP as part of the company’s successful apprenticeship programme.

Shannon Edwards-Owen, 23, is starting her role as a Level 2 Business Administration Apprentice with the Chesterfield-based provider of building control services.

The former Parkside School student previously worked in education. She completed a foundation degree in Working with Young People and Families at Sheffield Hallam University. However, she decided it was time for a change and began looking for opportunities to develop her skills in a business setting.

“The apprenticeship with DBCP offers me the chance to build a career in a business environment, which is something I have become increasingly curious about,” Shannon said. “You make career choices at 16 which don’t always meet the needs of the adult you become.”

As part of her 18-month apprenticeship, Shannon will spend one day a week at Chesterfield College. She will spend the rest of her time gaining valuable workplace experience with DBCP’s busy Business Administration team, based at Dunston.

“We were impressed with Shannon’s CV. Beyond her qualifications, she’s shown an exceptional work ethic across multiple sectors since leaving school.” Said David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager. “We can see that she has what it takes to balance work and training. She’s precisely the kind of talent we’re proud to nurture at DBCP.”

Previously in her career, Shannon has worked in education, retail, and hospitality since she was 16 years old. She is no stranger to learning new processes.

Following on, Shannon said: “I could tell immediately that DBCP had a positive, engaging team and a history of supporting career-entry apprentices. The interview was a great experience. I was really encouraged to know how well other apprentices had done and to see first-hand the roles they now have within the business. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career with DBCP.”

DBCP has built a strong reputation for supporting and investing in apprentices. Several of its team members began their careers through the same scheme.

Apprentice Building Control Surveyor Charlotte Gladwin won the title of LABC Newcomer of the Year in 2024. She has already gained recognition for her achievements. Charlotte is now in the running for Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year. The Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025 will present the award.

Additionally, Harvey Ellis, another DBCP apprentice, is also a finalist competing for Higher Apprentice of the Year. Adding to the celebrations, DBCP has made the shortlist for SME Employer of the Year.

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards will reveal the winners on Thursday 2 October.

To read more on our successful champions nominated at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, please click here.

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team at www.dbcp.co.uk or call 0333 880 2000.

To find out more about apprenticeships and current vacancies visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Skills

EyeSiteView Ltd launches following years of growth

One of Chesterfield’s most innovative digital businesses has marked a major milestone with the launch of EyeSiteView Ltd. The company specialises in property marketing using immersive 3D technology to help housebuilders sell new homes off-plan.

Previously, EyeSiteView operated for several years as a division within Oasis Studio. Now, it has become a standalone company with its own identity and strategic direction.

Tony Buck and Paul Deakin co-founded the business. Since its inception in 2016, they have led the EyeSiteView brand.

“This has been years in the making,” said Tony Buck, director of EyeSiteView.” To see the company grow from an idea into a trusted partner for housebuilders across the UK, and now a fully independent business, is something I’m incredibly proud of. We’ve built a brilliant team here in Chesterfield, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

“We’ve always believed that buying a home should be an exciting, confident experience – even off-plan. Our digital tools make that possible. This new chapter gives us even more focus to serve our clients, support our team, and help shape the future of property sales.”

Working with developers across the country, EyeSiteView delivers interactive digital platforms that make it easier for buyers to explore and personalise homes. Buyers can even secure their chosen property before a single brick is laid.

Staying true to its vision, the company aims to transform how new homes are marketed and sold through intuitive, data-driven technology.

EyeSiteView continues to operate from its base at Tapton Innovation Centre in Chesterfield. Flying the flag for digital innovation within the town’s growing property and construction sector.

Eyesite view Property marketing specialist.

EyeSiteView Ltd proudly joins the Chesterfield Champions network. This group of local businesses and organisations works together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. To learn more or become a Champion, visit Chesterfield Champions.

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

Chesterfield talent shines at regional apprenticeship awards

Six organisations from Chesterfield have been named finalists in the 2025 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards, underlining the town’s ongoing commitment to developing future talent.

The nominees cover sectors ranging from healthcare and construction to education and digital industries. This reflects the diversity of apprenticeships that support sustainable business growth in Chesterfield.

One of the individuals recognised for her outstanding contribution to apprenticeship mentoring is Rachel Griffiths, Office Manager at Dalton Roofing. Her dedication to supporting young talent has earned her a place as a finalist in the Mentor of the Year category.

Rachel said: “I am totally overwhelmed to be shortlisted. Supporting and helping others is one of the most rewarding areas of my job, so to be recognised for this is amazing.

“Having apprentices in our business is extremely important to us. It keeps the younger generation and talent coming through.”

Juniper Training has also been recognised for its long-standing commitment to apprenticeships. With over four decades of experience delivering high-quality programmes, the organisation continues to play a vital role in preparing young people for the world of work.

Sian Frater, Marketing Manager at Juniper Training, said: “Being recognised for our work is a huge achievement for the whole Juniper Training team.”

Julie Richards, Principal at the Chesterfield College Group, says, “We are delighted to be nominated across two categories, which is a testament to the ongoing hard work and dedication from our staff in serving the training needs for businesses across the region. Over the past year, both our Chesterfield and Derby campuses have supported an increasing number of employers across a wide range of industries, in either recruiting apprentices for the first time or growing their apprentice numbers as they recognise the value and impact they have in their business.”
 
 

Ceremony to recognise finalists of 2025 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

The awards, hosted by National World Events, celebrate the best apprentices, mentors and employers across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday, 2nd October at the Village Hotel in Nottingham.

Chesterfield’s strong representation this year reflects the town’s ongoing investment in skills development. Initiatives such as the Chesterfield Skills Action Plan and the Chesterfield Champions network support this. These efforts are helping to create life-changing opportunities for young people while strengthening the local economy.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Vice Chair of Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “Apprenticeships are a powerful way for businesses to grow their teams and develop future leaders. It’s fantastic to see Chesterfield so well represented at these awards. A clear sign that the town’s investment in skills is paying off.

“We wish all the finalists the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating their achievements in October.”

Local finalists

The local people and organisations recognised in the 2025 Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards include:

 

Mentor of the Year

Rachel Griffiths, Dalton Roofing Ltd

 

Apprentice Ambassador of the Year

Philip Dalton, Dalton Roofing Ltd

Rhys Robinson, Chesterfield College Group

 

Health and Public Service Apprentice of the Year

Charlotte Gladwin, DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

 

SME Employer of the Year

DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

Less Than Zero Barbers & Training Academy

 

Construction Apprentice of the Year

Gabriella Day, Dalton Roofing Ltd

 

Training Provider/Programme of the Year

Chesterfield College Group

Juniper Training Ltd

 

Higher Apprentice of the Year

Harvey Ellis, DBCP (Derbyshire Building Control Partnership)

 

Gabriella Day, Dalton Roofing Ltd – Construction Apprentice of the year

 

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

For more regional awards visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/promote-your-business/

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

Landmark rail innovation centre taking shape in Staveley

A cutting-edge rail innovation and training centre rises rapidly in Barrow Hill, marking a major milestone for Staveley’s growth.

The steel frame is now under construction to build the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe).

Once complete, the centre will offer a hub for rail sector growth and innovation.

Sited next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, it includes classrooms, specialist research and development facilities. As well as a digital laboratory and commercial workshop space.

Steel frame Barrow Hill rail innovation centre

Collaborative growth

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It is fantastic to see this project coming together so quickly. DRIIVe will help grow our local economy by providing local people with the skills they need to access great careers in the rail sector and will help cement our borough’s position in the sector by attracting new businesses to the area.

Construction of the rail innovation centre began in early June. Stepnell is delivering the project on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council.

Tom Sewell, Regional Director at Stepnell, said: “We’re progressing on schedule with the steel frame now taking shape.

“As we move toward the installation of external cladding, we’re actively engaging with the community to ensure alignment with the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal and Chesterfield Borough Council. We’re committed to delivering meaningful opportunities for local people throughout the build, through targeted local spend and support for employability.”

Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society works in partnership to develop DRIIVe. It will take on day-to-day management once the centre opens. The centre will reinvest all profits into the Roundhouse site, helping preserve and strengthen community engagement.

Bob Burgess, Director and Trustee at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “We’re thrilled with the works on site. This facility will help local people access new opportunities and ensure that we can continue to help people connect with our heritage at the Roundhouse.”

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers, offering rail-related education from Level 2 through to postgraduate research. Furthermore, it will serve as a base for rail supply chain businesses, providing access to cutting-edge innovation and facilities.

Investing in Staveley’s growth

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s exciting to see works on this project and the wider Town Deal progressing. It has taken time to get to this stage. But hopefully people are now seeing the projects coming out of the ground and will be able to benefit.”

The Staveley Town Deal has provided the majority of funding for the project. It secured £25.2 million from the Government’s Towns Fund. In addition, funding has been provided by Chesterfield Borough Council, the East Midlands Combined County Authority, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

DRIIVe is a first step in the development of the nearby Hartington-Staveley East Midlands Investment Zone site.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “DRIIVe is a powerful example of how we’re turning ambition into action with the East Midlands Investment Zone. By investing in skills and innovation, we’re building the foundations of a smarter and greener economy while making sure that local people are at the heart of our journey. The East Midlands is stepping up as a leader in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable transport – and DRIIVe is proof of that progress in motion.”

To find out more about DRIIVe and the Staveley Town Deal, please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/Staveley-Town-Deal

Stepnell and Barrow Hill Roundhouse support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

New minibus and office space provide more opportunities to support young people

Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) has recently taken delivery of a minibus to further expand its programme offer to schools.

The minibus has been kindly sponsored by MSE Hiller, a Chesterfield-based company that supplies, rents and services centrifuges and environmental engineering products to the water and industrial effluent treatment sectors.

MSE Hiller supports many of DEBP’s programmes, including Made in Chesterfield, where they offer workplace tours to give students the chance to learn about and see what it is like working in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing and construction industries and careers.

Laura Duck, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said, “We offer a range of careers and employability programmes to support young people, but this mainly takes place in school or with a host organisation. Over the last academic year we have been welcoming students to our new learning space in Chesterfield. Whilst we offered transportation, the associated costs meant there were limitations based on school locations and distance to travel. With our own minibus, we can expand access to some of our programmes.”

A newly reconfigured office space has also created a new on-site learning area to deliver a range of programmes to support young people.

The programmes offered on-site include the  Supported Insight Scheme, a work placement for small groups of students with special educational needs and disabilities. It supports students to learn about the world of work, whilst acquiring a range of transferable skills. It involves creating a range of marketing materials to support a business need or an upcoming company event.

They also offer Future Focus, which links with the Bolsover Partnership and Bolsover District Council to support the co-production of a ‘creative hub’ within the district. Students come up with innovative ideas for the hub and present these to employers associated with the planning process at the end of the programme.

Sophie Haley, Future Focus Programme Leader said, “The open-plan learning space is designed to be welcoming, helping students to feel at ease, and build their confidence. With the addition of the minibus, we’re able to invite more schools and support more young people to recognise their potential.”

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