Businesses to help shape future of Chesterfield

Residents, businesses, community groups and organisations in Chesterfield are being asked to have their say on how they think almost £20m worth of investment should be spent to help improve the town over the next 10 years. A new and independent board, called the Chesterfield Town Board, is driving forward this investment and wants to hear people’s views to understand local issues and priorities as well as ideas for the future of Chesterfield. People can put forward their views as part of an online survey – which will be open until noon on Monday 24 June – and a series of engagement sessions are also being held with local community groups and organisations. Dominic Staniforth, Chair of the Chesterfield Town Board, said: “Listening to local people and understanding how residents, businesses and community representatives think this money should be best invested is at the heart of our plans. “This means our investment proposals will be developed by local people for local people: bringing together residents, business, and community leaders to devise and agree a shared vision for the future. “It’s really important that we hear from as many people as possible, to understand local issues and priorities as well as ideas that people may have for the future of Chesterfield.” The short survey asks people to answer a series of brief questions, seeking their views on how the funding should be spent on projects which fit into three key themes:
  • Safety and security – this could include projects which help to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, for example.
  • High streets, heritage and regeneration – this could include projects which would enhance the town, making the place more attractive and accessible to residents, businesses and visitors.
  • Transport and connectivity – this could include projects which support improved access to the town centre, including work to support greener modes of travel, as well as public transport options.
People’s views will be used to help shape the development of a long-term vision statement and three-year investment plan setting out how and where the money will be spent. Dominic added: “Chesterfield is a great town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better – a place to live, work, invest and study – so please do spare a few minutes to complete our short survey and be part of our shared ambitions for the town.” Local business leader Dominic Staniforth was appointed as Chair of the Board. He sits alongside representatives from other local businesses, community and voluntary organisations, and the public sector, including representation from Chesterfield Borough Council.

Innovative approaches to workplace inclusivity

Workplace inclusivity is more than a moral obligation; it is a strategic advantage that can enhance productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. Inclusivity ensures that every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. Keep reading as we explore innovative strategies to foster inclusivity within organizations, highlighting practical steps and real-world examples. Workplace Inclusivity And What It Means Workplace inclusivity is more than just diversity. While diversity focuses on representing different demographics, inclusivity ensures that these diverse voices are heard, valued, and integrated into the organizational fabric. Inclusivity involves creating an environment where all employees, regardless of their background, feel a sense of belonging and respect. An inclusive workplace encourages open dialogue and actively seeks out diverse perspectives. This enhances decision-making and fosters a culture of innovation. Companies prioritizing inclusivity often see higher employee engagement, better team collaboration, and improved retention rates. Creating such an environment requires a committed effort from leadership and a clear understanding of the principles of inclusivity. However, the benefits are worth the time and effort invested into creating an inclusive workplace. Creating An Inclusive Culture Building an inclusive culture starts with a commitment from the top. Leadership must visibly support and model inclusive behaviors. This can be achieved by establishing clear policies that promote inclusivity and providing regular training for all employees on unconscious bias and cultural competence. Encouraging open communication is essential. Employees should feel comfortable voicing their opinions and concerns without fear of retribution. Regular feedback mechanisms, such as surveys and anonymous suggestion boxes, can help gauge the inclusivity of the workplace environment. Additionally, recognizing and celebrating the diverse backgrounds and contributions of employees through events and awards can reinforce a sense of belonging. Innovative Recruitment Strategies Recruitment is another influential area where inclusivity can be fostered from the outset. Traditional hiring practices often unconsciously favor certain groups, leading to a lack of diversity. Innovative recruitment strategies can help address these biases. Blind hiring practices, where personal information is removed from applications, can ensure candidates are evaluated based on their skills and experience rather than demographics. Diverse hiring panels can also make a significant difference. Including individuals from varied backgrounds in the recruitment process helps mitigate bias and promotes a more inclusive hiring culture. Partnering with organizations that support underrepresented groups can expand the talent pool and attract diverse applicants. Inclusive Leadership Practices Leaders play a pivotal role in shaping an inclusive workplace. Inclusive leadership involves:
  • Actively seeking out and considering diverse perspectives.
  • Promoting equity.
  • Ensuring all team members have the opportunity to succeed.
Leaders should be trained in inclusive practices and encouraged to mentor and sponsor employees from diverse backgrounds. Mentorship and sponsorship programs can provide underrepresented employees with the guidance and support needed to advance their careers. Inclusive leaders should also set clear expectations for inclusivity and hold themselves and their teams accountable for maintaining these standards. Doing so creates a culture where every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute. Technology And Tools For Inclusivity Technology can be a powerful ally in promoting workplace inclusivity. Tools that detect and mitigate bias in recruitment and performance evaluations can ensure fairer outcomes. Accessibility software can make the workplace more inclusive for employees with disabilities, while platforms for anonymous feedback can provide a safe space for employees to voice their concerns. For instance, AI-driven tools can analyze job descriptions and highlight biased language, ensuring more inclusive job postings. Collaboration tools that support various communication styles and languages can help create a more inclusive environment. Implementing these technologies requires a thoughtful approach to use them effectively and ethically. PDF remediation is another critical tool for inclusivity. Many organizations use PDFs to share important documents, but these files can often be inaccessible to employees with visual impairments or other disabilities. PDF remediation involves making PDFs accessible by ensuring they are readable by screen readers, have proper tagging, and include alternative text for images. In addition to these tools, organizations should consider implementing accessibility software that caters to various needs. This could include text-to-speech programs, screen magnifiers, and voice recognition software. These technologies can empower employees with disabilities, allowing them to perform their tasks effectively and efficiently. Flexible Work Arrangements Flexible work arrangements are another key component of an inclusive workplace. These arrangements can benefit diverse employees, including those with caregiving responsibilities, disabilities, or other personal circumstances. Offering remote work, flexible hours, and job-sharing options can make the workplace more accessible and accommodating. Clear policies and guidelines are necessary to implement these arrangements fairly and effectively. Managers should be trained to manage remote teams and support employees in balancing work and personal responsibilities. By providing flexibility, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and support the diverse needs of their workforce. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, employee-led groups that foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. They provide a platform for employees to connect, share experiences, and support one another. ERGs can also serve as valuable resources for organizations, offering insights into the needs and concerns of diverse employee groups. In order to be effective, ERGs need support from leadership, including funding and opportunities to contribute to organizational decision-making. Successful ERGs can influence policies, provide mentorship, and organize events that promote inclusivity. By empowering ERGs, companies can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Measuring And Improving Inclusivity Measuring inclusivity is crucial for understanding initiatives’ effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. Tools such as employee surveys, diversity audits, and inclusion indices can provide valuable data. Organizations should regularly review this data and adjust their strategies accordingly. Continuous improvement is essential for maintaining an inclusive workplace. This involves setting clear goals, tracking progress, and holding leaders accountable for outcomes. Providing ongoing training and development opportunities can help employees stay informed and committed to inclusivity. Companies can create a more equitable and successful workplace by making inclusivity a core organizational value. The Bottom Line Workplace inclusivity is essential for fostering a productive, innovative, and engaged workforce. By adopting innovative approaches and continuously striving for improvement, organizations can create an environment where all employees feel valued and empowered. Implementing these strategies not only benefits the employees but also contributes to the organization’s overall success. Promoting inclusivity is a step towards a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone involved.

Showcase exceptional property and construction firms at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024

With nominations now open for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, showcase your business, team and projects by submitting an entry for the esteemed event. The annual awards celebrate the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from office, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes. Shine the spotlight on your team, reward their efforts, and boost morale. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region. Reflecting on last year’s awards Clare Swaine, business development manager at Henry Brothers, who won Commercial Development of the Year for SportPark Pavilion 4, said: “I was delighted to collect this award on behalf of Henry Brothers, it was a fantastic team effort to deliver this impressive Passivhaus building which is supportive of Loughborough University’s path to net-zero and is a tremendous asset to the University and wider Leicestershire economy. The event was also a great networking opportunity and it was interesting to hear more about the various developments happening in the region.” To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:

Nominations end Thursday 5th September

Find out who last year’s winners were here.
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours. Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:      

             

To be held at:

Hinckley & Rugby supports seven local charities with grants totalling over £25,000

Hinckley & Rugby Building Society’s Community Foundation has donated over £25,000 to seven local charities, helping them to deliver their much-needed services in the coming year. The Foundation, which was launched in March 2022, was introduced to help local charities tackle important social issues facing their local communities by providing substantial financial donations and practical support where required. The successful charities who have received grants this year are Carers Trust – Heart of England, Green Towers – Hinckley Club for Young People, Stand Against Violence, The Bodie Hodges Foundation, Hinckley Homeless Group, Feed the Hungry, and Lutterworth Hygiene Bank. Representatives from the charities were invited to attend Hinckley & Rugby’s Annual General Meeting to receive their funds and to meet the team, and to discuss how the Society’s support will assist with their work. Chloe Scanlan, Fundraising Officer from Feed the Hungry, said: “The Society’s funding will support the renovation of an old mobile library, to be used as our second mobile foodbank/pantry, providing food, cleaning products, and hygiene items to those struggling with the increased cost of living. This new vehicle will enable us to support more local people in areas such as Rugby.” Hinckley & Rugby CEO Barry Carter said: “The Foundation is a great way for us to have a meaningful and positive impact on our local communities. We’re committed to backing good causes in our neighbourhoods, and these charities provide a wide range of vital support that is hugely valuable to many local people.”

Tree experts expand in UK with acquisition of East Mids firm

Bartlett Tree Experts, the scientific tree and shrub care firm, has expanded in the East Midlands with the acquisition of Canopy Tree Services. With the acquisition, Bartlett has opened a new East Midlands office, located in Draycott, Derbyshire. Canopy Tree Services was founded by Ben Edmonds and Steve Barker in 2004 to provide tree surgery services in the Derby, Nottingham, and Leicester areas. The owners were looking for ways to offer a wider range of services and expertise for managing tree health. They found the right fit in Bartlett Tree Experts, and were impressed with Bartlett’s approach to safety, quality work, and customer service. Edmonds, who has joined Bartlett’s new East Midlands office along with a team of six arborists, said: “Bartlett Tree Experts is a multi-generational, family business that has been a leader in the industry for 117 years and is known for its scientific approach to tree care. Their commitment to customer satisfaction aligns perfectly with our own values.” Jim Ingram, President and Chief Operating Officer of Bartlett Tree Experts, said: “We are excited to welcome the talented team from Canopy Tree Services to our new East Midlands office. This acquisition allows us to expand our full range of scientific tree care services while continuing to honor our commitment to exceptional safety, science, technology, and business.” Richard Trippett, Vice President of Bartlett’s operations in the UK, said: “Our acquisition of Canopy Tree Services will expand Bartlett’s scientific plant health care services for more residential and commercial property owners within the East Midlands, which will go a long way toward improving the health and beauty of their trees and landscapes.”

Deal not sealed for small business voters, as poll reveals over half could still be swayed in election

Millions of voters who run their own businesses are still to make a final decision on who they will back on polling day, according to a snap general election survey by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). It reveals that 96 per cent of small business owners intend to vote, but one-in-five (20%) have yet to decide which party they will choose, while a further one-in-three (33%) have a good idea who they will vote for but could still change their mind. FSB’s research found 90 per cent of small business owners are concerned business taxes could rise under the next Government, while 92 per cent of small employers said they were concerned a future Government could increase the costs and risks associated with employing people. More than half (53%) say they are concerned about small business energy costs over the next five years; more than six-in-ten (61%) are concerned about the level of inflation over the next five years. The findings come as FSB publishes a manifesto for small businesses and the self-employed – a blueprint for whoever forms the next Government aimed at driving economic growth and increasing the small business community from 5.5 million back to its pre-pandemic size of six million within the next Parliament. FSB’s Policy Chair, Tina McKenzie, said: “Small business owners and the self-employed are a shrewd and motivated part of the electorate. “They’re used to weighing up competing offers when running their businesses, and it’s clear from our research that when it comes to the election they’re looking for which of the parties has the most compelling pro-small business offer. “Small businesses are the key to securing economic recovery, driving innovation, and creating jobs in all parts of the UK. “Our small business manifesto sets out the measures needed to create the conditions for that to happen, many of which do not involve additional spending. “We’re looking to all of those seeking to form the next Government to show their commitment to the millions of hard-working voters who run their own businesses, including through a Small Business Act so we have new legislation to protect small businesses on crucial issues such as late payment.” MANIFESTO PROPOSALS FSB’s manifesto for small businesses and the self-employed sets out more than 150 specific proposals to cover the period of the next Parliament. These include: Committing to a Small Business Act, legislating to help small firms by:  
  • Enshrining in law measures to clamp down on big businesses with poor payment practices towards their smaller suppliers.
  • Improving small businesses’ ability to access finance, including closing loopholes in protections for those giving personal guarantees.
  • Making a 33 per cent SME statutory public procurement target, increasing the involvement of small businesses in taxpayer-funded projects.
Giving reassurance on tax:
  • Fundamentally reform business rates to help small businesses in all sectors.
  • Rule out increases in tax on dividends for directors of limited companies and National Insurance for the self-employed.
  • Restore the small profits threshold for corporation tax to the previous level of £250,000 and pledge not to increase the small profits rate.
Backing small employers, jobs and skills:
  • Automatically increase the employment allowance with the National Living Wage.
  • Maintain current co-investment rules to back small business apprenticeships.
  • Reintroduce universal work experience into secondary schools.
Encouraging start-ups:
  • Increase the number of start-up loans offered by 5,000.
  • Create a new ‘new enterprise allowance’ for those out of work looking to start a business.
  • Make it easier for people working for themselves to get a mortgage and save for their retirement.
Driving future growth:
  • Introduce a new Small Housebuilder Strategy, to ensure sufficient capacity to achieve ambitious housebuilding targets.
  • Commit to a target that at least half of all direct Government funding of private Research and Development (R&D) goes to SMEs.
  • Provide consumer-style protections for smaller businesses when it comes to the energy market.

The Access Group acquires global hotel tech specialist

Loughborough-headquartered The Access Group, a £1bn+ business management software provider, has added global hotel and casino technology specialist SHR to its hotel management technology suite. The latest acquisition represents a significant milestone for the Access Hospitality division, giving it a North American footprint in its quest to become a leading global provider of the full range of hotel operations, distribution, and guest engagement solutions. By pairing SHR’s capabilities with those of Guestline – an end-to-end hotel platform which Access acquired in 2023 – Access Hospitality customers will have a comprehensive integrated technology solution from one provider. SHR’s 2,000 hotel customers will join Guestline’s 3,000 properties, with all clients of the enlarged Access Hospitality division benefitting from improved ability to boost efficiency and profitability, with a complete digital guest journey. The acquisition of SHR will strengthen Access Group’s modular product approach, allowing hoteliers to design their ideal tech stack according to need. Based in Houston, Texas – with offices in Ireland and Spain – SHR’s technology solutions include a dynamic Central Reservation System (CRS), Internet Booking Engine (IBE), Customer Relationship Manager (CRM), Revenue Management System (RMS), and digital marketing and loyalty program tools. Its use of AI personalises the content guests see on hotel websites, increasing relevance and helping hoteliers maximise direct revenues through greater conversion, upselling and cross-selling. Access aims to become the mid-market hotelier’s ‘go-to’ technology provider, focusing on independent hotels and national and regional chains globally by combining SHR’s products with those of Guestline’s Property Management System (PMS) and the wider Access portfolio, including ResDiary, Procure Wizard, Rotaready, CPL, Trail, Access EPoS, Acteol CRM, Design My Night, Newbridge, Wireless Social and Maintain. The appointment of former Guestline CEO Andrew McGregor as VP Accommodation of Access Hospitality earlier this year demonstrates the group’s commitment to, and investment in, developing the organisation as a leading global business software provider for the hotel industry. The Access Hospitality division supports over 20,000 businesses including hotels, multi-site pubs and bars, restaurants, food-to-go, and leisure operators. Champa Magesh, MD Access Hospitality, said: “We’ve always worked to provide world-class products and unrivalled technological capabilities, and SHR embodies that ambition. The acquisition further bolsters our accommodation offering following the addition of Guestline last year. “SHR is undoubtedly the world’s leading automated hotel technology platform and a significant addition to our hospitality offering. In this increasingly complex industry, leveraging AI’s immense potential gives hoteliers a competitive edge – enabling them to revolutionise guest experiences, drive operational efficiencies, and increase revenue.” Andrew McGregor, VP Accommodation of Access Hospitality, said: “This deal takes us a step closer to achieving our goal of being the global go-to technology partner for hotels, helping them deliver exceptional guest experiences and increase their profitability. “SHR’s pioneering use of technology and laser focus on customer experience make it a natural fit to integrate into the Access Hospitality portfolio. This acquisition marks a key milestone in our drive to grow our market share by opening up the USA and tapping into the massive growth opportunity the market presents.” Rod Jimenez, CEO SHR, added: “Access is already a leader in providing software and services to UK and European hotels. Its focus on offering solutions that support customers with their entire operations enable hoteliers to deliver excellent guest experiences cost-effectively, profitably and sustainably. “By joining the Access Hospitality family, SHR’s customers gain access to a complete suite of products and services. The ability to draw on the expertise of Access’ extensive network of partners will not only help our customers; it will provide us with the ability to accelerate capabilities and innovation across our products and customer support services.”

The best ways to boost morale and teamwork in your business

A team that operates in harmony, with high morale and a shared sense of purpose, can propel a company to new heights, while a disengaged and disjointed workforce can act as an anchor. Fostering a positive work environment and cultivating a culture of teamwork is crucial for unlocking the full potential of your employees. When individuals feel valued, supported, and part of a cohesive unit, they are more likely to exhibit increased productivity, creativity, and commitment to the company’s goals. Open Communication: The Foundation Of Trust Effective communication is the bedrock upon which strong teams are built. By establishing open lines of dialogue and encouraging a two-way flow of information, businesses can create an environment where employees feel heard and empowered to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback. Regular team meetings, one-on-one check-ins, and collaborative brainstorming sessions not only facilitate the exchange of information but also foster a sense of transparency and trust within the organisation. When employees feel that their voices are valued and their contributions are recognised, they are more likely to feel invested in the company’s success. Recognising And Rewarding Excellence Everyone appreciates feeling appreciated for their hard work and dedication. By implementing a robust system of recognition and rewards, businesses can cultivate a culture of positivity and motivation, fuelling a cycle of excellence that benefits both employees and the organisation as a whole. Whether it’s through formal recognition programs, performance-based incentives, or simple gestures of appreciation, acknowledging the efforts and achievements of your team members can go a long way in boosting morale, fostering a sense of pride, and inspiring others to strive for greatness. Professional Development Opportunities Investing in the professional growth of your employees is not only a powerful motivator but also a strategic investment in the long-term success of your business. By providing access to training programs, workshops, and educational resources, you demonstrate a commitment to their personal and professional development, fostering a sense of value and loyalty within your workforce. Encouraging cross-training and job rotation can broaden the skill sets of your employees, promoting a deeper understanding of the organisation’s operations and facilitating collaboration across different departments or teams. Away Days And Field Trips While work is undoubtedly the primary focus, taking time to step away from the daily grind can rejuvenate your team and foster a stronger sense of camaraderie. Away days and field trips provide an opportunity for employees to bond, engage in team-building activities, and explore new environments together. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, a cultural excursion, or a visit to an industry-related facility, these shared experiences can break down barriers, encourage creative thinking, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the diverse talents and perspectives within your organisation. It may be worth investing in a minibus if you are making away days and field trips part of your regular schedule. If you’re looking for a minibus for sale, talk to the team at The Minibus Centre. They have a range of options, including a 9-seater minibus, for sale and lease. Fostering A Collaborative Environment Collaboration is key to success. By creating an environment that encourages teamwork and cross-functional cooperation, you can tap into the collective expertise and creativity of your workforce, solving complex problems and seizing new opportunities with greater efficiency and innovation. Implementing collaborative tools and platforms, such as project management software, video conferencing solutions, and shared workspaces, can facilitate seamless communication and coordination among team members, regardless of their physical location or department. Embracing Diversity And Inclusion A diverse and inclusive workforce is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. By embracing individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, you tap into a rich tapestry of experiences, ideas, and problem-solving approaches that can drive innovation and enhance your company’s competitive edge. Cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute can foster a sense of belonging and commitment among your employees, ultimately translating into increased productivity, creativity, and overall organisational success. Leading By Example As a leader, your actions and behaviour set the tone for the entire organisation. By consistently embodying the values and principles you wish to instil in your team, you establish a powerful example that inspires others to follow suit. Whether it’s demonstrating a commitment to work-life balance, exhibiting empathy and emotional intelligence, or celebrating the successes of your team members, your actions carry weight and can shape the culture of your organisation in profound ways. Encouraging Social Connections While the workplace is primarily focused on professional endeavours, fostering social connections among your employees can have a profound impact on morale and teamwork. By creating opportunities for informal interactions and casual socialising, you allow individuals to form genuine bonds and develop a sense of community within your organisation. This could take the form of team-building activities, shared meals or coffee breaks, or even company-sponsored social events. When employees feel connected on a personal level, they are more likely to develop a sense of camaraderie and a deeper commitment to supporting one another in pursuit of shared goals. By implementing these strategies and cultivating a positive, collaborative, and inclusive work environment, you can unlock the full potential of your workforce and position your business for sustainable success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Experienced farming consultant and graduate join property consultancy’s Market Harborough team

A highly experienced farming consultant has joined a property consultancy’s team in Market Harborough as it looks to expand in the East Midlands. Peter Roberts has been hired as an Associate Partner by Fisher German after a 14-year career in farm business consultancy, and joins as the firm looks to help farmers through a particularly challenging time for the sector. He will mainly focus on helping farmers in the Midlands with farm management roles and business development as they begin to adapt to new sources of funding, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive, as the BPS scheme is phased out. Peter said: “I had wanted to join a bigger firm, and Fisher German has an excellent reputation all over the country, so it was a great opportunity for me. “I have an extensive background in farm consultancy, focussing on assisting clients to develop their businesses with a strong focus on the financials, so I am well placed to advise farmers around the best ways to manage their businesses through the adoption of new environmental schemes, whilst continuing to balance food production and ensure profitability. “Farming businesses are facing real challenges at the moment, with the reduction of BPS payments, extreme weather and commodity price volatility all combining to put severe pressure on profitability and cashflow, but there are also opportunities out there to develop new income streams and potentially restructure existing enterprises. “I’m looking forward to assisting as many farmers as I can to navigate these challenges, as well as winning more work for Fisher German.” Joining Peter in Fisher German’s agribusiness team at Market Harborough is graduate Vicky Povey, who joins as an agribusiness consultant. David Kinnersley, Head of Agribusiness at Fisher German, said: “It’s great to have a highly experienced agribusiness professional like Peter joining the team alongside a talented graduate like Vicky. “Our goal is to grow the agribusiness team significantly out of our Market Harborough office, and we’re confident that we’ll be able to take on more staff of varying experience in the future as we continue to assist farmers across the Midlands.”

Chesterfield building to undergo extensive refurbishment following acquisition

A prominent building in Chesterfield’s retail centre is set to undergo extensive refurbishment after its acquisition by commercial interior design and build company We Are Spaces. The three-storey property, located alongside the old Marks & Spencer building, spans 3,355 sq ft and features independent pedestrian access to the upper two floors. Having acquired the Grade II listed building for an undisclosed sum via auction earlier this year, We Are Spaces is committed to maintaining it as a commercial space with the aim of attracting smaller businesses that can drive footfall and increase spending within the town centre. The deal was completed with legal advice and support from regional law firm Banner Jones’ commercial property team, and the property was purchased through the auction house Mark Jenkinson. Amy Revell, co-founder and creative director at We Are Spaces, said: “As a business, we are committed to projects that reinvigorate the high street, particularly those that bring derelict buildings back into commercial use. “Having acquired the site earlier this year, we are now in the early stages of the planning process, with refurbishment works expected to start within a few months.” We Are Spaces, which specialises in commercial transformation and interior design, added that plans to sympathetically refurbish the High Street building will factor in its heritage and history, whilst also incorporating state-of-the-art technology to ensure it meets the latest sustainability and environmental standards. Ben Couch from Banner Jones’ commercial property team, who advised We Are Spaces on the acquisition, said: “We are delighted to have worked alongside the team at We Are Spaces to support their latest acquisition. “As a fellow Chesterfield Champion it’s great to have been involved in yet another project that will fundamentally improve the High Street’s commercial offering, benefiting not only local businesses and the local community, but also the local economy.” Amy Revell added: “We are dedicated to maintaining this unit as a vibrant commercial space that will help drive footfall, attract more out of town visitors, and bolster the local economy by contributing to Chesterfield’s dynamic business environment.”