Property and Construction

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

New waterside development offers office, retail and dining opportunities

A project to transform Staveley’s canal basin has taken another step forward with the completion of The Moorings, a two-storey waterside development led by Derbyshire County Council.The Moorings is expected to create between 40 and 60 new jobs, which will contribute to the local economy and attract visitors to the Chesterfield Canal and the surrounding area.

The development, part of the £25 million Government-funded programme Staveley Town Deal, is ready to welcome its first occupants with a mixture of office, retail and leisure areas on offer.

The building offers 6 office units on the first floor available to rent, ranging in size from 450 square feet to 750 square feet (42 metres squared to 70 metres squared). On the ground floor, there are units suitable for retail use and a larger area that will be used for a restaurant or café-bar. The restaurant area overlooks the canal basin and has an outdoor dining area.

Access to the area has been improved with a new road and footpath, and should encourage more visitors to make recreational use of the canal for walking, cycling and boating.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Councillor Rob Reaney, said:  “It’s great to see the completion of the Moorings building at Staveley, which will be a fantastic waterside destination for both local people and visitors to enjoy.

“We’re inviting contact from retail, dining and other businesses looking to relocate or expand into this purpose-built space and we’ve already received considerable interest from a number of potential tenants.

“We look forward to seeing businesses moving into The Moorings and opening up to customers, creating  jobs and new leisure opportunities for the area.”

The Moorings is being managed and funded by our partnership with the Staveley Town Deal, which is overseen by Chesterfield Borough Council. The Town Deal is providing £3.5 million of the £4.5 million cost of the project, with the balance being met by Derbyshire County Council.

This building forms part of the wider Markham Vale programme of works, a flagship, 85-hectare business park based on the site of the old Markham Colliery. The programme is a joint venture being delivered jointly with HBD focused on attracting and supporting businesses to thrive.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “I’m thrilled to see this prominent project right by the canal, completed. This landmark development is a key part of the Town Deal programme as it will help create new jobs and encourage people to explore the historic canal, contributing to our overall goal of ensuring that Staveley is a place where everyone can start, stay, and grow.”

Discover more about the Staveley Town Deal Projects.

Find out more about available commercial property in Chesterfield.

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

Closer public and private sector ties will support Chesterfield’s growth

At the recent UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) held in Leeds, the vision for Chesterfield’s ambitious £2bn regeneration programme was discussed.

Chesterfield is undergoing a significant transformation and regeneration programme, with an overarching ambition to turn it into one of the East Midland’s most exciting and dynamic growth regions.

Example activities include the project revitalising the heart of Chesterfield and its historic marketplace, the Markham Vale enterprise zone, the Chesterfield Waterside project and the PEAK gateway resort.

Sarah Wills, Associate Director at planning consultancy nineteen47, which is also a member of the Chesterfield Champions network of regional businesses, commented: “It’s impossible not to think about how to achieve inclusive, sustainable regional growth without considering the role housing delivery has to play.”

It is estimated that the Chesterfield regeneration projects are set to deliver 3,900 homes, 7,800 jobs and an extra £473m to the regional economy.

Alongside this, Chesterfield Borough Council in its 2024-27 housing strategy has laid out aspirations for what it describes as “good quality homes, a pleasant environment and strong communities”.

“There is already momentum in Chesterfield toward a collaborative effort to tackle the ambitious but necessary housing targets faced by the district. With these targets in mind, it’s important that this momentum is maintained. This is a highly collaborative effort, and closer public-private working will be an important part in achieving this,” commented Sarah.

Building closer partnerships was a key part of the discussions at a recent meeting of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group forum. This initiative is part of the Chesterfield Champions Network and brings together leaders from the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council.

“There’s already a level of collaboration between the public and private sectors in Chesterfield as seen through the Destination Chesterfield Property and Construction Group,” highlights Sarah.

Sarah highlights the example of the Construction Skills Hub run by Chesterfield College and situated at Mastin Moor site of the Devonshire Group, the organisation which manages the Chatsworth Estate. The aim of this initiative is to train and develop new skills for future generations of construction professionals, which is a vital area to ensure sustained housing delivery.

“The Construction Skills Hub is a strong example of how public-private collaborations can enhance regional housing delivery through skills and education.”

Beyond skills and training, Sarah explains how a significant element of closer collaboration is about leveraging the extensive expertise amongst private sector operators and bringing these conversations to public partners.

From a practical standpoint, Sarah highlights the management of submitting and progressing planning applications to ensure they align with the council’s housing and communities vision.

“The planning process is widely acknowledged as a complex process, and it is a target for widespread legislative reform.”

Chesterfield Borough Council has set out a strong agenda for growth over the coming years, which leverages strategic positioning close to the M1 and proximity to wider established areas undergoing economic development, such as Sheffield and Derby.

Or as Sarah puts it: “Chesterfield is at a real, and exciting, turning point, building on its proud history and strong industrial heritage to create a thriving place for people to live and work.

“It’s important we maintain momentum and embrace a vision-led approach to ensure housing targets are not only achieved, but they are right for Chesterfield, for its community, economy and its future.”

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Family business expands at Chesterfield Market Hall

A family business is expanding into a larger unit in the town’s historic Market Hall, marking a new chapter in its growth.

Cosmetic Company Outlet, founded in 2010 as an online retailer, opened its first physical shop in Chesterfield’s Market Hall in December 2024. The business, now run by Dominic Kerry, has built a loyal customer base by offering top-brand cosmetics at discounted prices. After a successful first year, the business is now moving to a larger unit on the outside of the Market Hall, opposite the Old Post Office and next to Magnolia Barbers.

Dominic Kerry said: “Opening in the Market Hall had been on my mind for a while, and we finally took the leap at the end of 2024. The challenge was always whether we could keep our competitive online prices while covering the costs of a physical shop. Thankfully, the people of Chesterfield have really supported us. They’ve shown that they value local, family-run businesses.”

The new shop is three times the size of the original unit. As the business has grown, so has its product range, creating a need for more space. Customers have travelled from across the region, often drawn by word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues

Inside Cosmetic Company Outlet

Dominic explained. “We’ve had people coming in every week because someone they know told them about us. That kind of support is priceless.”

Support from the local community and fellow traders has played a key role in the business’s success. Dominic also praised the Market Hall management team for their ongoing help and encouragement.

“The Market Hall team have been brilliant. They’ve supported us every step of the way, and we’re excited to welcome both new and returning customers to our new space.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy at Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is always a pleasure to welcome businesses into the Market Hall and to see them grow. With the works planned through our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, a strong future lies ahead for the Market Hall and the Town Centre. Businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet are helping to shape that future and bring new energy to our town centre.”

Chesterfield’s location, community spirit, and ongoing investment in the town centre have all contributed to the business’s growth. For Dominic, the decision to grow in Chesterfield was a natural one.

“We’re a Chesterfield family through and through. Our ancestors have traded in the town for generations in everything from confectionery to printing. The regeneration of the Market Square feels like a turning point for the town’s future.”

Dominic hopes to contribute to the town’s vibrancy by offering a personal, independent alternative to big chain stores.

“We want to give people a reason to shop local. Independent traders like us can offer the kind of personal service that people say they miss. If we can help keep people shopping in Chesterfield, then we’re doing our bit for the town.”

Dominic Staniforth, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “Chesterfield is a town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better, a place to live, work, invest and visit. It’s fantastic to see businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet growing and contributing to the vibrancy of our town centre.”

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield.

Discover more about commercial property in Chesterfield Town Centre 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in Development, Home, Property and Construction

Business support programme powers growth for Chesterfield businesses

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

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

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

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

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

Across the region, the Accelerator Programme has:

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

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

The Accelerator Programme offers the following support:

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

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

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

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

Celebrating local business success

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

Investment opportunities flourish across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire

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

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

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

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

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

Banner Jones expands private client team

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

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

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

BSP Consulting promotes senior leaders

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

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

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

Peak Edge Hotel innovates with wine and golf experiences

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

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

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

CRUSH supports sustainable Tech Start-Ups

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

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

Get Involved: Become a Chesterfield Champion

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

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