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Mortgage 1st expands offer with launch of new lending brand

Mortgage 1st, a brokerage based in North Derbyshire has announced the official launch of a specialist lending brand to keep up with unpredictable market conditions.

Specialist 1st will be an appointed representative of Connect for Intermediaries (Subject to FCA approval) and will have access to their extensive lender panel.

The new brand is designed to advise directly on complex buy-to-let, adverse credit, second charge lending, commercial purchases, development finance and bridging finance and will see the appointment of an experienced specialist adviser as well as a number of Mortgage 1st advisers becoming dual authorised under the new brand.

Jon Stones, managing director of Mortgage 1st, said: “We always planned to establish a specialist arm under Mortgage 1st & after closely following market trends and conditions, this became a very sensible move to make as we enter 2024.

“As a company we are determined to keep moving forward, enhancing our service and overall offering to Mortgage 1st customers whilst providing our advisers the opportunity to enhance their own skillsets. Advisers need a comprehensive suite of lending solutions to keep up with the ever changing market and customer demand and this move will enable us to help far more clients directly.

“Connect have an excellent reputation within this sector, extensive lender panel and have been wonderful to deal with as we begin building Specialist 1st. Their close relationship with Stonebridge also made them the ideal choice for us & we are excited to be working closely with Liz, Kevin and the entire team at Connect.”

Kevin Thomson, Sales Director of Connect for Intermediaries added: “ We are delighted to be working with Specialist 1st as they embark on their diversification into the specialist mortgage markets. We look forward to supporting the whole team at Specialist 1st and being with them every step of the way so they can achieve their growth ambitions.”

Specialist 1st will be headed up by Mortgage 1st’s Head of Partnerships Paul Lewis.

Mortgage 1st supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Jon Stones, Mortgage 1st

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D2N2 LEP secures funding for next wave of Skills Bootcamps provision

D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has secured almost £5 million to broaden its successful Skills Bootcamps offer.

The organisation has a successful track record of delivering Department for Education funded Skills Bootcamps, which have been developed by the Government as part of the Skills for Life programme.

Following successful applications in four previous waves of Skills Bootcamps, D2N2 LEP has now been allocated further funding as part of the fifth wave of Skills Bootcamps allocations.

The funding of £4,967,950 represents an increase of almost £1.5 million on the previous allocation in Wave 4 (£3.5 million).

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks for adults aged 19 or over. They give people the opportunity to build up valuable sector-specific skills based on local employer demand and provide a direct path to a job on completion.

With this funding boost, D2N2 LEP indends to broaden the range of sectors that its Skills Bootcamps support. For example, for the first time, Skills Bootcamps in leadership and management will be offered for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

The organisation will also work with providers to offer a wider range of Skills Bootcamps programmes in priority areas of digital, construction, engineering and green skills (construction and electric vehicles).

As the lead partner, D2N2 LEP will be working with Derbyshire County Council to open the procurement window to allow providers to apply for delivery contracts for Wave 5 Skills Bootcamps programmes. D2N2 LEP will make an announcement as soon as this window opens, expected to be later this Spring.

Employment and Skills Manager at D2N2 LEP, Richard Kirkland, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve succeeded in our application to be a Wave 5 Skills Bootcamps provider, following our successful track record of delivering Skills Bootcamps in all four of the previous waves. It’s fantastic that through the increase in funding we’ve secured, we’ll be broadening our offer to include new programmes, such as leadership and management for small and medium sized businesses.

“This is really positive news as I look back on my 40 year career in education and skills and prepare to retire; it’s such a proud moment for me. I would like to thank all my colleagues, all our providers and partners for their support over the years and I wish all the Skills Bootcamps learners all the very best in their future careers.”

Richard will leave D2N2 LEP at the end of this month to commence his well-earned retirement, following his 40 year career in education and skills.

Businesses across Chesterfield are encouraged to find out more about the skills support available to help them grow their organisations, by attending the Employability and Skills Conference on Thursday, 8th February.

Find out more about D2N2 LEP’s Skills Bootcamps programme

MTM_manufacturing

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Chesterfield’s Noonah unveils new cutting-edge AI Photo Booth

Noonah, a Chesterfield company with expertise in event technology, has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art AI Photo Booth for immersive brand experiences.

The firm says its latest innovation guarantees an exceptional event journey, with high-quality outputs, generated with unmatched resolution and artistic flair. It promises to elevate every captured moment, with rapid output generation within seconds, meaning attendees can instantly see their AI-enhanced photos in real time.

Safety and customisation take centre stage, as the booth is fully brandable and offers robust moderation tools, ensuring a secure and tailored experience. Noonah’s commitment to inclusivity is evident with ethnicity consideration, promoting diverse and representative outputs.

In addition, Noonah’s in-house tech team is continually introducing new modes, making the AI Photo Booth future-proof for any event or brand activation. Built for versatility, ease of setup, portability, and onsite technical support makes it ideal for pop-ups, conferences, and diverse event settings.

The new technology can include features such as:

  • AI Themer Mode, which seamlessly transforms your audience into avatars of your chosen theme, whether it’s a dynamic brand campaign, a blockbuster film release, or a seasonal setting.

  • AI Headshots Mode, providing versatile headshots which can serve as event media, perfect for ID badges, office lanyards, and professional platforms like LinkedIn.

  • AI TimeMachine Mode, allowing users to experience historical milestones, future landscapes, or age transformations.

  • AI Stylize Mode, transforming ordinary snapshots into pieces of art, each embodying a unique and visually striking style. Whether it’s the charm of anime, the fun of cartoons, the bold strokes of comics, or even the elegance of renowned art styles.

  • AI Destination Mode, which can allow attendees to picture themselves amid the lush greenery of a jungle, the tranquil shores of a beach, the bustling energy of New York’s Times Square, or even the majestic grandeur of the pyramids.

“This new AI Photo Booth redefines how brands connect with their audiences at events,” said Hannah Mott, Marketing Manager at Noonah. “It’s not just a booth; it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences.”

For inquiries regarding the new product, contact info@noonah.co.uk or visit noonah.ai

Noonah supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

LS Hero Noonah AI

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“A perfect location to live, work and play” – Chesterfield property firms highlight advantages of Derbyshire’s largest town

Property firms are shining a light on why Chesterfield is an excellent location to live and work, with the launch of a compelling new promotional film.

The new Why Chesterfield, Why Now? film, featuring insights from key figures in the local property industry, showcases the numerous advantages and opportunities Derbyshire’s largest town offers residents and investors alike.

Major housing schemes and development opportunities

A digger and construction worker on a Stancliffe Homes development

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director of The Devonshire Group, kicks off the video at the Mastin Moor investment on the northeast side of Chesterfield. The ambitious project includes 650 new homes, later living facilities, a new local centre, and approximately 50 acres of parkland. Byrne says Chesterfield is a great place to invest and closes the film by praising the town as a great environment in which “to live and to work and to play.”

Andrew comments: “Chesterfield is a great place to invest. The population of Chesterfield is estimated to grow by about 9,000 between now and 2035. Those people are going to require homes. So it’s important that we start that process as early as we can.

“It is a thriving market town, it’s a good sized town, it’s got good education, and it’s got that playground of the Peak District National Park on its doorstep.”

Waterside Quarter development proves Chesterfield’s appeal

Avant homes Waterside Quarter

During the video, Jack Staples from Avant Homes shares progress from the Waterside Quarter development, launched in 2020. Avant has successfully sold all 170 new properties on the development, proving Chesterfield’s appeal. Staples highlights Chesterfield’s abundance of amenities and excellent transport links.

Speaking on-site at Waterside, Jack said: “We’ve got just over 170 new properties. We’ve just sold our final homes on the development. In terms of amenities, transport links, Chesterfield offers a lot, but without that city price tag.”

Historic market town attracts families and commuters from London

Birdseye view of Chesterfield market place with stalls and people

Emma Liversidge, Land and New Homes Manager at Redbrik, emphasises the charm of Chesterfield as a historic market town with a village atmosphere. She notes the community’s friendliness, making it an attractive family destination.

“Every corner you turn in Chesterfield, there’s a new development popping up. It is a historic market town, but I think it does have that sort of village atmosphere. Everyone’s very friendly, everyone knows each other, which attracts families to the area. There’s quite a lot of commuters that are settling in Chesterfield, because it’s got the good schools, it’s on the edge of the Peak District, but mainly it has really good transport links.

Attracting hybrid workers with superb quality of life

Blue Puffin Billy train driving past at Queen's Park

Queen’s Park, Chesterfield town centre

Tom Ward, Sales and Marketing Consultant at Redbrik, sheds light on the influx of hybrid workers relocating to Chesterfield from London for the town’s affordable housing. He commented: “With Chesterfield having a train to London we’ve had a lot more people moving from London, maybe they only need to be in the office for one day a week. So it’s easy to come up here, we’ve got housing that’s more affordable, but you can still have that connection.”

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director of LimeLiving Estate Agents, echoes Ward’s sentiments when talking about Chesterfield’s growing appeal with the rise of hybrid working and flexibility. Wajs notes that many people who previously moved away have returned, recognising Chesterfield’s proximity to major cities and its convenient Peak District National Park access.

Jamie said: “We’ve seen relocation being at the forefront really of the majority of buyers coming in. We are finding also that, since the pandemic, hybrid working has come to be a lot more popular now and flexibility, and that people have come back to Chesterfield as well that have previously moved away. I think when you look at what’s around us here, we’re not too far from any of the major cities, but then you’re only minutes drive from the Peak National Park.”

The film paints a compelling picture of Chesterfield, showcasing its growth, community spirit, and investment potential. As Chesterfield continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the balance the town offers, making it a welcoming and increasingly attractive location for families, investors, and remote workers.

For more information on living in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

To discover why Chesterfield is an excellent location to invest and grow your business, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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Four Chesterfield Champions announce new senior appointments and promotions

Four Chesterfield Champions have revealed new appointments and promotions to kickstart 2024.

Find out about the latest successes from Peak Architects, Superior Wellness, Shorts and the University of Derby in our latest roundup:

Trio of promotions for Peak Architects

Peak Architects promotions

After a year of continued growth, Peak Architects has announced a series of promotions. Oliver Glaves is now an Associate, while Alasdair Struthers and Zanthe Wray have been promoted to Senior Architects.

Since joining Peak Architects in 2020, Oliver has proven himself to be an integral member of the Peak Architects team. With a specific focus on the management and technical delivery of its commercial portfolio, his proactive approach and commitment to excellence has contributed to the practice’s growing reputation.

Zanthe joined Peak Architects after working for Ollier Smurthwaite and local practice HCD; whilst Alasdair has previously worked at Peter Barber Architects in London. Zanthe and Alasdair have been instrumental in the development of the practice’s design and quality standards, which has seen the successful delivery of a series of award-winning projects.

Director Paul Holden commented: “These well-deserved promotions are not just a recognition of their work to date, but also an investment in the future of Peak Architects; we are looking forward to their continued development and contribution to the growth of the business. Well done from everyone at Peak Architects”

Shorts promotes Alicia Williams to Director

Alicia Williams Shorts

Shorts has announced the promotion of Alicia Williams to the position of Genus Director with effect from 1st January 2024.

Since joining Shorts in 2016 as an Accounts Senior, Alicia has demonstrated exceptional aptitude and dedication, earning promotions to Client Financial Controller and Finance System/App Integrator in 2017 and then Client FD and Digital Improvement Lead in 2022. Her progression to Director is testament to her exemplary skills and is a reflection of the active role she has played in the development of our Genus, Management Information offering during that time.

On confirming the promotion, Partner Malcolm Pope said: “Alicia is not only recognised as a leader within Shorts, but also the wider UK accounting community, following an appearance at a Xero Talks Event in London (and subsequent Podcast) and her involvement in the recording of numerous videos for reporting software provider Fathom.

“She has long been Shorts’ ‘go-to’ in terms of helping our clients improve efficiencies and opportunities through the introduction of software solutions, but she has also more recently been heavily involved in the development of what comes next for Shorts in all things AI / Data Analytics completion of the Data Analytics qualification from the ICAEW. Alicia’s promotion is very much deserved and she has worked hard to achieve it.”

Alicia said: “I am incredibly proud to have been promoted to Genus Director at Shorts and excited to be taking the next step in my professional journey. Shorts has fostered a culture of learning and development, and my promotion showcases the firm’s genuine commitment to supporting its employees’ career growth through structured paths. I am excited for my new role, working closely with both our existing clients and futures ones and helping to contribute to the continued success of the firm.”

Superior Wellness Appoints New Operations Director

Mat Day Superior Wellness

Superior Wellness has revealed the appointment of Mathew Day as the company’s new Operations Director. With over 15 years’ experience across a broad range of sectors, he brings a wealth of experience to the role.

With an impressive career, Mathew brings exceptional operational expertise and strategic leadership to his new position. Before joining Superior Wellness, Mathew was Head of Operations for Kingfisher Lighting for four and a half years.

Mathew started his journey in the 3PL world working for blue chip companies such as Clipper Logistics, Kuehne + Nagel and Europa Worldwide in which he has held numerous management positions.

As the Operations Director, Mat will play a pivotal role on the operational side of the business driving processes and efficiencies with the Senior Management Team to support the company’s expansion plans and long-term vision.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Mat Day to the Superior Wellness team. His extensive experience and proven track record as an operational leader make him an excellent addition to the team.

“We are confident that Mat will contribute significantly to our continued success as we continue to grow globally. Mat’s experience will continue to strengthen our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with him.”

New Operations Director Mathew Day said: “I am very excited to join the team here at Superior Wellness. The business is extremely well placed for further significant growth, building upon the strong foundations in place due to the quality of its partner relationships, product offerings, and its people.”

Based in Chesterfield, Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer with a network of global partners, distributing several brands including Platinum Spas, Chill Tubs and Hekla Saunas.

University of Derby appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Stephen Dudderidge University of Derby

The University of Derby has appointed Stephen Dudderidge to the new role of Chief Operating Officer, to drive forward the University’s strategic ambitions and future growth.

Stephen is currently Registrar & Secretary at the University of Brighton and will join the University of Derby on 8 April.

At Brighton, Stephen is a member of the Executive Board and leads a wide range of central professional services as well as the institution’s corporate and academic governance.

Stephen joined the University of Brighton in October 2016 after a lengthy career at the University of Nottingham. Having lived and worked for many years in the East Midlands, Stephen has a strong affinity with the region and a knowledge of the University of Derby’s important stakeholder community.

Commenting on his appointment, Stephen said: “I am delighted to be joining the University of Derby at such a pivotal time for the institution and the sector.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across the institution with a view to building on an already strong platform of cohesive service delivery.”

In his new role at Derby, Stephen will be responsible for working with the University’s executive team, led by Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University, in shaping and advancing the University’s position as an applied and industry-engaged university, building on its reputation for innovation and recent success of achieving Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming Stephen to the University.

“He has an excellent track record of leading services, and extensive experience of developing and implementing strategic plans and projects, so he is very well placed to support the University as we continue to deliver our ambitious strategy and strive for future success.”

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Plans revealed for more than 300 homes on North Derbyshire site

More than 300 homes could be built in Killamarsh, with a housebuilder set to submit plans to transform a former colliery site.

Housebuilder Harron Homes North Midlands is preparing to submit a reserved matters planning application to North East Derbyshire District Council for 322 new homes, in collaboration with Homes by Honey.

This site, next to Green Lane and Upperthorpe Road, has been purchased from Harworth Estates and two other private landowners who previously secured outline planning permission for 397 new homes.

The proposal is to transform the former Westthorpe Colliery site into a development of one to five bedroom homes over 45 acres of land, 20% of which would be designated for affordable housing. In addition, financial contributions of circa £750,000 will be made towards Sports Facilities, Education and Health Care in the local community.

The site sits within commutable range of Sheffield, Chesterfield and Rotherham with Killamarsh’s close proximity to the M1.

John Booth, Regional Managing Director for Harron Homes North Midlands, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to bring a wide range of homes suitable for a range of house-hunters in the area. We’ve taken on board previous concerns related to the number of houses being constructed and have been working closely with the council to generate a proposal to benefit everyone.”

Living in Chesterfield

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield has so much to offer those looking for a new home.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling market town or a picturesque village, Chesterfield boasts mix of contemporary and traditional housing.

It has excellent transport links to nearby towns and cities. Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham can all be reached easily within an hour, and London can be reached in under two hours by rail.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield.

A typical Harron Homes street scene for illustrative purposes only

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East Midlands Chamber launches Generation Next Awards 2024 to celebrate region’s young talent

Young business talent across the East Midlands will be showcased through the Generation Next Awards as the programme launches its 2024 season.

The awards are the showpiece programme of Generation Next – a network for young professionals and entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, which is run by East Midlands Chamber in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby.

It features 12 categories, ranging from a Start-up Award and Customer Service Award through to Innovation and Technology Award and the Generation Next Future Leader.

The programme includes a new addition, the “Investing in Young Talent Award”, that recognises forward-thinking businesses which provide mentorship, training and growth opportunities for young professionals.

The application process of each category award is streamlined to a “one form fits all” method involving a reduced number of questions.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the amazing young talent within the East Midlands, and our diverse programme recognises the next generation of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

“We want to encourage young professionals from across the region to tell their story and celebrate their successes.”

This year’s ceremony will be held on 4 July, and the venue will be confirmed in the coming months.

Entries are open for the 2024 awards until Monday 11 March. They can be submitted either by individuals within the 18 to 35 age bracket or on their behalf by a colleague or line manager.

Applications can be downloaded at www.generationnextemc.co.uk/awards and should be emailed to the Generation Next team at gennext@emc-dnl.co.uk upon completion.

Generation Next Awards 2024 categories

  • Future Leader Award (sponsored by the University of Derby)
  • Apprentice of the Year Award (sponsored by Loughborough College)
  • Creators and Makers Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Customer Service Award (sponsored by Express Recruitment)
  • Entrepreneur of the Year Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Environmental Warrior Award (sponsored by Hydropath Technology Group)
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Award (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)
  • Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs)
  • Rising Star Award (sponsored by Nottingham Trent University)
  • Start-up Award (sponsored by University of Nottingham)
  • Volunteering and Charitable Impact Award (sponsored by ITS Technology)
  • New for 2024 – Investing in Young Talent Award (available for sponsorship)

Generation Next Awards 2024

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Global Brands announces net zero strategy

Global Brands, an independent UK drinks company based in Chesterfield has committed to a sustainability journey to reach net zero by 2050.

The business is the largest supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK off-trade with brands including VK and Shake Baby Shake, and resides over the second largest premium tonic brand in the UK on-trade, Franklin & Sons. Global Brands acquired Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef from Molson Coors in 2023.

The sustainability journey for Global Brands commits to a path to net zero by 2050, with a 92% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset. By 2030, Global Brands will have a 40% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset.

The drinks business has achieved carbon neutral status this year, offsetting current carbon emissions while starting to reduce scope 1, 2 and some of scope 3 emissions. Emissions are based on an assessment by Carbon Footprint Ltd of the operational emissions across Global Brands facilities and transport activities.

Current carbon reduction strategies across the business include running operations from solar panels on the roof of the company’s 181,000 square foot warehouse, starting to switch the lorry fleet to HVO fuels, and commitments to reduce single use plastic across the business.

Key to the carbon reduction strategy is a focus on logistics and distribution – the main source of carbon emissions across Global Brands. By 2030, the entire lorry fleet will run on HVO fuels.

In the short term, Global Brands are supporting several projects that compensate for emissions that can’t be reduced immediately. To achieve this, Global Brands are investing in wind power initiatives in several developing countries, reducing and removing emissions, creating jobs and improving livelihoods, reducing dependency on other countries for energy, and protecting natural resources. These projects are across North West Africa, the Dominican Republic, and India, and are managed through Verified Carbon Standard, the world’s leading greenhouse gas crediting program.

Across the Global Brands portfolio, 100% of cans, plastic, and glass bottles are recyclable, with 90% of brands utilising 100% recyclable paper labels.

Zehra Gezer, Head of Marketing Projects at Global Brands: “At Global Brands, it’s our mission to continue creating and delivering delicious liquids and remarkable brands, enjoyed the world over.

“Many of our products such as Hooch and VK, are easy-drinking beverages for partying and fun, and these shouldn’t come with an environmental impact.

“Likewise, sourcing and infusing the most remarkable ingredients from across the globe into every Franklin & Sons product, shouldn’t be at the expense of increased emissions.

“Across Global Brands, we do recognise that we operate in a significantly single use industry, with many products in our category prioritising convenience over sustainability. But having a good time and enjoying remarkable drinks shouldn’t be at the expense of the environment.

“We understand that offsetting emissions is only a part of reducing our carbon footprint in the short-term, and long-term action is ultimately required to become truly carbon neutral.

“However, we believe it is important to do everything in our power to balance our impact as a business in the here and now, so we are proud to support a number of projects that compensate for the emissions we cannot reduce immediately by funding an equivalent carbon dioxide saving elsewhere.

“Through an active carbon emissions reduction strategy, we’re committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and this sustainability journey will underpin and encourage sustainable growth, especially as we continue to expand internationally and supply drinks that can be enjoyed the world over to more consumers.”

Global Brands supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

hooch global brands

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Rodgers Leask keep plans on track for new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Further details for the new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill Roundhouse have been revealed by one of the companies involved in the project.

National engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask is leading the design team currently working on RIBA Stage 4 designs for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield, which is awaiting planning permission.

The modern rail innovation and training centre will provide more than 1,400 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, and specialist research and development facilities – including a digital laboratory and commercial offices.

Appointed via the ESPO 2664 framework, Rodgers Leask’s involvement so far includes a full-service offering, comprising structural and civil engineering consultancy, geo-environmental engineering investigations and transport planning advice. The consultancy’s various experts are working to overcome the operational constraints posed by the busy industrial site, while also protecting the surrounding area’s interesting features – such as the historically significant Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Kriston Harvey, director at Rodgers Leask, said: “This is a very important project for the area and therefore we’re proud to be involved. Not only will it bring additional full-time jobs to the local area, it will also provide training facilities to enable people to learn new skills and open the door to highly skilled career opportunities in the rail industry. The research and development aspect of the building will see it become a prominent location for rail technology research and innovation, with fantastic links to the rail network.

“As everyone recognises the significant benefits that the project can bring to the community, engagement between the client, design team and other key stakeholders has been very positive and productive.

“Chesterfield has a clear vision for how it wants to develop over the coming years, with a strong plan for growth – it has been exciting to work with the council on this key project.”

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million, with funding for the project being provided through the Staveley Town Deal. Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail – part of Newcastle University.

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Rodgers Leask is working alongside architect Frank Shaw Associates, building services consultancy CPW and planning consultant Planning & Design Group. A planning decision is expected in early 2024.

For more information on civil, structural, geo-environmental and transport engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask, visit rodgersleask.com.

Rodgers Leask, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Chesterfield Borough Councill support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. The business is also a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group.

Driive artists impression

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Chesterfield business to feature on TV’s Dogs Behaving Badly

A Chesterfield Doggy Daycare business is set to feature on Channel 5 show, Dogs Behaving Badly this year.

The show’s host, Graeme Hall visited Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare to hire the centre’s ‘field of freedom’ to train two dogs.

The space was used to teach the dogs to walk better whilst on a lead, with Rose Cottage providing a secure location with large fencing, in case the pets were playing up! The epsiode is expected to be aired in the summer of 2024.

Dawn Brown, Owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare commented: “Graeme was a very chatty, great guy. He spent time with me and my team before and after the filming. He also signed books for us and we have lots of pictures with him”

“To be picked out of the whole of Derbyshire to use our field was amazing, and will definitely help us to stand out. He said they searched for a field to hire and ours came up when they researched our services. They were highly impressed with our site, our branding, and our whole different take on dog care in general. We were happy to oblige and would of course welcome further filming if required whilst in our region.”

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care can offer dog owners a full day of enrichment for their beloved pets, covering basic physical emotional and social needs, which ultimately results in a happy dog at the end of the day.

The centre also offers a luxury doggy hotel with TV, air conditioning, and sofas. However, the dogs only enjoy this luxury at night time, because in the day they are far too busy making the most of Rose Cottage’s 5.5 acre site. All walks are done on-site too, with safety always being the top priority.

Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

dogs behaving badly visits rose cottage

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Conference to showcase skills support on offer to Chesterfield firms 

Businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are being urged to capitalise on the support available to assist with improving the skills of their employees.

The Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Skills and Employability Conference will highlight the support available for businesses to upskill their workforce, further enabling local organisations to grow organically. The event is being hosted at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre, on Thursday, 8th February 2024 (8am-11am).

Book your free place at the event here.

Research conducted by East Midlands Chamber found that 72% of local businesses have difficulties in recruiting suitable staff. Meanwhile, The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (2022), found that nearly two-fifths of organisations (38%) are increasing efforts to meet their needs by developing more talent in-house. Upskilling existing employees is the most common response to solving recruitment issues.

Attendees will hear how local businesses have benefited from investing in upskilling existing employees, including through apprenticeships. BHP Chartered Accountants will share how they have promoted more than 70 of their own staff into more senior roles within the last year, alongside taking on more than 40 new trainees.

Chesterfield Borough Council will also reveal more details about its new skills brokerage service for businesses. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the service aims to give firms a single point of contact for impartial advice and support on how to fill vacancies and reduce skills gaps within their organisations.

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Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “We’re proud to support the annual Skills and Employability Conference because we believe it helps businesses to share best practice and encourages them to work together to develop the skills of our residents, creating a resilient workforce who are able to capitalise on new opportunities and help local businesses to grow. This year the conference will be heavily focused on the support that local businesses can access and I’d encourage any business owner to come along and find out more about the help available to them.”

Michael Timmins, Chair of the town’s Skills and Employment Partnership and Director at AECOM, said: “The annual Skills and Employability Conference continues to prove popular with firms across the town, enabling them to gain the latest information on the initiatives taking place to ensure we keep producing a strong and talented workforce for our organisations to thrive. As a collective, our town must continue to play its part in unlocking the potential of our people, so I would urge any business owner in the area to attend the conference and see how we can support you to grow.”

The Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference is delivered by the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

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