Business

Chesterfield based PCT Healthcare grows

13th September 2016

Chesterfield based PCT Healthcare, has acquired the six well-established pharmacies of K.M. Brennan

The first Brennans pharmacy opened in Beaumont Leys in 1980, the company has since grown from a single site to operating six pharmacies in the greater Leicestershire and Derbyshire area focused on community-based pharmacy services.

Chesterfield headquartered PCT Healthcare is the third largest independent pharmacy chain in the UK. Having earlier in the year completed the acquisition of WR Evans (Chemist), the enlarged group employs over 1,400 people and operates under the Peak Pharmacy, Tims and Parker, Manor Pharmacy and Cox and Robinson brands.

Peter Cattee, PCT Healthcare Chief Executive Officer, said:

“The transfer of Kevin Brennan’s business into Peak Pharmacy is an ideal opportunity for us to develop the business out of our traditional Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire base towards our branches further south.

“Kevin has built up a tremendous business by his hard work and application and we shall be following in his footsteps by continuing to concentrate on personal service, staff training and development and family culture – all supported by our strong operational background.

“Pharmacy continues to be integral to the needs of the NHS and in many regards looks like a practical solution to some of its current problems. PCT Healthcare is well-placed to deliver services in this environment.”

Posted in Business

Free Brexit helpline launched for East Midlands businesses

13th September 2016

Responding to continued uncertainty in the business community, East Midlands Chamber has partnered with law firm Eversheds to offer a free legal helpline to businesses that have queries on how different aspects of Brexit might impact their activity.

Areas that will be covered by the helpline include:

Employment issues
Commercial contracts
Intellectual Property
Funding arrangements
Business structures
Real estate
Other operating issues

Chamber members calling the lo-call rate number (0333 456 0480) will be offered one hour’s free over-the-phone advice by an expert from the Eversheds legal team.

The hotline will be managed by the Chamber, which will arrange for an expert from the Eversheds legal team to speak to callers.

Chris Hobson, the Chamber’s Director of Policy, said:-

“It is now 12 weeks since the landmark referendum result for the UK to leave the European Union, and companies remain confused about what will happen as we go through the Brexit process.

“While the full implications will only become clear once formal negotiations begin, there is work that businesses can start doing now in terms of the considerations they should be making with regards to those areas that we know are likely to be affected in some way, or where uncertainty is already having an impact.

“With over half of our members employing someone from a country in the wider EU, the main issue at the moment seems to be managing questions over what the status of these workers will be post-Brexit.

“But our members have also expressed concerns over intellectual property rights, continued funding for projects currently funded by EU money and the possibility of levies being laid against imports and exports.

“Working with Eversheds, we have set up the hotline so that our members can talk to legal experts to ensure that, even if they can’t at this stage have all the answers, they can at least ensure they’re asking the right questions to put themselves in the best possible position to overcome the uncertainty and realise the opportunities that Brexit will bring.”

James Fry, Partner at Eversheds said:-

“We are delighted to be partnering with the Chamber to help its members navigate through the uncertainty of Brexit.

“At Eversheds we are committed to giving clear, straightforward and objective advice on what exit from the EU may mean for businesses in the East Midlands. The issues are not the same for every business and we will ensure that our legal advice is tailored to specific needs.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

Another deal done on Markham Vale

13th September 2016

Property developer Priority Space has exchanged contracts to acquire a prime 1.6 acre site at Markham Vale in Derbyshire.

The developer, which has exchanged contracts on the site in a joint venture with Hunt Group, will now seek planning permission for some 25,000 sq. ft. of high specification warehouse/industrial accommodation set over 12 units ranging from 1,200 – 3,050 sq ft, which will be available for purchase.

This will be the latest development at the popular Markham Vale, a 200 acre prime business and distribution park with Enterprise Zone status, located off junction 29a of the M1 motorway, and will provide much needed business space for SMEs in the region. The site has recently attracted occupiers such as Great Bear, Andrew Page, Inspirepac, Ready Egg, Meter Provida and Gould Alloys amongst others.

Innes England’s Derby office and Fernie Greaves in Sheffield have been jointly appointed to market the scheme which, subject to planning, is expected to start on site in November this year.

Associate director at Innes England, Stuart Waite commented: “We are delighted to be working alongside Fernie Greaves on this Priority Space scheme. Markham Vale is widely regarded as one of the UK’s premier logistics locations and a flagship scheme for the region which has attracted considerable investment since its inception….we are convinced these units will be received well by the market”

Lee Buchanan, Director at Priority Space, said “After the success of Kiln Park Priority Space are looking forward to delivering their second commercial scheme. We believe the location at Markham Vale to be key in securing fully occupancy of the site. We hope to emulate Kiln Park and secure sales on the entire scheme before completion of the development

Shaun Hunt, Chief Executive at Hunt Group Ltd added, “Following a successful JV project between H.G. Holdings and Priority Space near Leeds we are pleased to be embarking upon this new development project using the same well proven team. The Markham Vale regeneration site is perfectly placed on this busy M1 corridor with many large operators having already established their businesses here. Our flexible, modern and most aesthetically pleasing units are likely to appeal to the more discerning business owner occupiers and investors”

It has also been announced that Britcon (UK) Ltd will be appointed as Main Contractor.

Posted in Business, Development

Chesterfield business begins shipboard testing for USCG Approval

13th September 2016

Chesterfield based business Cathelco have announced that their Evolution ballast water treatment (BWT) system has begun shipboard testing for U.S. Coast Guard Type Approval.

The system has been installed on the Svendborg Strait a 1085 TEU container ship owned by Carsten Rehder of Hamburg.

Julian Glogowski, Technical Director at Carsten Rehder, said:-

“From the start of this project to the final completion we appreciate the care and attention to detail from Cathelco, leading to a smooth, trouble free installation.

“We are very pleased with the outcome and look forward to continuing our relationship with Cathelco”

Peter Smith, Sales Director of Cathelco, said:-

“The system on the Svendborg Strait was installed a day ahead of schedule within a very confined area, demonstrating the flexibility of the equipment.”

The installation of the Evolution system was undertaken within 8 days at the Norderwerft yard in Hamburg. Commissioning and crew training was carried out on the ship’s first voyage.

Stewart Richard Ayre, Senior Project Manager at MPC Münchmeyer Petersen who oversaw the smooth running of the installation, said:-

“We are proud to be partners with Cathelco as the demand for BWT systems accelerates”

The Evolution system will supersede the original Cathelco BWT system which was launched in 2014 and already has IMO Approval and AMS certification. Prior installations include systems for ships ranging from ro-ro carriers to offshore supply vessels.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

New partnership heralds a new age for accounting and independent financial advice

12th September 2016

Two Chesterfield businesses, Start Financial Planning and Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, have joined forces to bring a fresh approach to financial planning for owner managed businesses in north east Derbyshire.

The collaborative working arrangement between the two businesses follows an increase in SMEs in the area now looking to grow following the pre-referendum uncertainty at the beginning of the year.

The low interest rates and grants now available has prompted businesses to turn to Mitchells for practical advice and help on accessing grants and finance, while Start Financial Planning is assisting business owners in protecting the future of the company and their personal finance ahead of potential Brexit uncertainty.

Michael Heath, director of Start Financial Planning, explained:-

“Historically financial advisers and accountants have worked independently of each other which is not necessarily in the best interests of business owners, particularly in the current economic climate.

“It made absolute sense to agree a collaborative working arrangement with Mitchells. By doing so we have created a one-stop-shop for owner managed businesses, offering practical advice in tax, accounting and investments, helping protect the financial future of the business for both the owner and employees.”

Richard Trueman, Managing Partner at Mitchells, added:-

“We’re delighted to have Start Financial Planning on board. Mitchells’ prides itself on both our practical accounting and business advice services, and the agreement with Start is a practical extension of this in response to client demand.

“Start shares our passion for helping SMEs achieve their growth potential and through our working partnership with Start, we are now able to offer our clients a better, seamless service when managing their business turnover and personal wealth.”

Later in the year, Start hopes to agree a further collaborative working agreement with a leading legal services firm in the area in order to deliver a fully comprehensive cradle to grave financial planning service for individuals and businesses in the area.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development

Limited places for Chesterfield Football Club gala ball

5th September 2016

There are a limited number of places available for Chesterfield’s Gala Ball at Chatsworth House next month, which is part of the club’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

The black tie event, taking place on Saturday, October 22, will feature a fantastic three-course meal and superb live entertainment.

Guests will be provided with transport to and from Chatsworth House, where there will be a champagne reception before dinner. Entertainment will be provided by Alexandra, an electric violinist, together with a ‘Rat Pack’ trio.

Tickets are priced at £150 for this prestigious, one-off event, with a limit of 150 places.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Leisure

Businesses invited to free business funding workshop

5th September 2016

With pre-referendum uncertainty over and interest rates at an all-time low, businesses in the area in are being encouraged to forge ahead now with their growth and investment plans.

Businesses looking to access finance and grants can get all the information they need at a free half day workshop – Funding for Business, which is being delivered by Sheffield City Region’s Growth Hub.

Only a limited number of places are available at the workshop, which is taking place at Dunston Innovation Centre on Wednsday 14th September from 10am – 1pm.

Organised in association with Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Borough Council’s Innovation Support Project, the workshop aims to preparing businesses for the post Brexit world of funding.

The European Regional Development Fund-funded workshop will also provide a one-stop-shop for advice and signposting on funding choices open to business, including lending and grants and guidance for making actual applications.

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield said: “The timing of this free workshop couldn’t be better. Many firms held off with their investment and growth plans in the first half of the year due to the uncertainty around Brexit. Now the decision has been made, businesses are forging ahead with their plans and eager to get information on funding streams and grants available to them.”

For more information about the free Funding for Business workshop, or to book one of the remaining places, visit http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/free-business-workshop-funding-for-business/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development

Spireites organise pop-up sensory room

5th September 2016

Chesterfield Football Club will invite a number of fans affected by autism to attend their next home fixture in a pop-up sensory room.

The hospitality box in the Community Stand at the Proact Stadium will be turned into a sensory room for the day when Chesterfield take on Northampton Town on Saturday, September 17.

Multi-sensory equipment, which is extremely therapeutic for people with sensory impairment, will be installed in the hospitality box. The equipment will be provided by Chesterfield-based Rompa, who are world leaders in the design and manufacture of sensory equipment and multi-sensory environments.

The initiative is being organised by the Chesterfield FC Community Trust, in partnership with Accessible Derbyshire – a charity with the aim of improving the lives of disabled people, their families, friends and carers living in or visiting Derbyshire and the Peak District.

John Croot, CEO of the Community Trust, said:-

“We are delighted to be working with Accessible Derbyshire on this project and we are also exploring other ways that we can raise awareness of autism.

“I would like to thank Trevor Marples from TM Accounting, who has agreed to make the hospitality box available.”

Gillian Scotford, one of the founders of Accessible Derbyshire, added:-

“The Proact Stadium boasts some fantastic facilities for people with disabilities – including a Changing Places facility – and we are keen to promote the great work being done by the club in this way.

There are a limited number of places available in the sensory room, which are free of charge and include a buffet.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business

Plans approved for another new building at Markham Vale

5th September 2016

Derbyshire County Council and Henry Boot Developments Ltd are pleased to announce that they have successfully secured Planning Approval for another new development on Markham Vale to be located on part of Plot 13 Markham Vale North.

The project team is aiming to secure all outstanding approvals and subject to securing an occupier, construction of the building is expected to start later this year.

At 480,000 sq.ft. in area, the building will be slightly larger than the Great Bear building on plot 1 which is currently the largest development on site.

Posted in Business, Development

Works to begin at Chesterfield Waterside

2nd September 2016

Work is set to begin on the next phase of the £320million Chesterfield Waterside Scheme.

Chesterfield–based earthworks and landscaping contractor NT Killingley Ltd has been appointed to undertake the site enabling works for phase one of the Basin Square character area, which incorporates the former Trebor site. The works are expected to take around three months.

Killingley is due to commence works on Monday 5 September. The enabling works will prepare the site for construction of a hotel, retail units, apartments, a multi-storey car park and offices next year.

As part of the project Killingley will use their cutting egde modelling capabilities and GPS controlled excavators and bulldozers to rework the site levels. They will create an acoustic noise bund along the A61 on the former Arnold Laver site in preparation for the homes which will be built there to form The Park neighbourhood at Chesterfield Waterside. The current temporary 250 space car park will be relocated to the north end of the site, with access from Brimington Road,

Peter Swallow, Managing Director of Bolsterstone Plc, which is leading the project, said: “I am delighted that the development is making progress. This is a significant step forward for Chesterfield Waterside which will allow us to move into the construction phase next year. Once preparation works are complete and the infrastructure is in place, it will facilitate delivery of development on both Basin Square and The Park, enabling us to progress with the second phase of detailed planning applications for the buildings themselves shortly afterwards.”

Matt Killingley, Managing Director of NT Killingley Ltd, said: “It is a great pleasure to work locally on such a prestigious scheme. The majority of our staff are Chesterfield folk and we are very excited to allow them the opportunity to show the community what they can do. I am sure we will all be very proud of the end result.”

Following the award of a £2.7million Sheffield City Region Infrastructure Fund (SCRIF) grant earlier this year, the enabling works for the development’s £75million Basin Square scheme were able to be brought forward by the developers, Bolsterstone Plc.

A planning application has also been submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council by Bolsterstone for illustrative proposals, indicating the height and massing for the buildings to be constructed in Basin Square.

The exciting mixed-use first phase of Basin Square is of a scale and quality not previously seen before in Chesterfield and will elevate the town’s profile. Once complete, Basin Square is expected to be home to approximately 300 jobs.

Chesterfield Waterside is recognised as being one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects, and is being developed by Chesterfield-based Bolsterstone Plc working in conjunction with Arnold Laver Group and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Additional progress with the Chesterfield Waterside scheme includes the recent granting of planning permission to replace the road bridge over the river Rother on the former Laver timber yard site which will serve The Park residential development, and the submission of a planning application for the works required to re-open a stretch of the Chesterfield canal.

The first phase of residential housing at Chesterfield Waterside, comprising 19 new homes on part of the former Arnold Laver DIY site on Brimington Road, was completed in 2015 on behalf of Great Places Housing Association, and the properties are now fully occupied.

Posted in Business, Development

Manufacturing confidence returns

1st September 2016

Manufacturing confidence rebounded in August from a 41-month low in July.

The month-on-month Markit and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, which jointly publish the data, figure saw the joint-highest rise in the 25-year history of the report, climbing from 48.3 to 53.3, where 50 is the mean.

It is thought that the lower value of Sterling against leading global currencies contributed to the renewed confidence as it made exported British-made goods cheaper and led to a raft of new orders.

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “July’s figure was quite obviously just a reaction to the EU Referendum result and we said at the time that it shouldn’t be regarded in isolation.

“The August rise is higher than might have been expected but, again, we would urge a degree of caution as this is a volatile table and we would expect to see it settle closer to its long term average of 51.5 in coming months.

“Manufacturing and engineering will be vital to the success of the UK post-Brexit and, as the spine of the sector in the UK, these figures are particularly pertinent to the East Midlands.”

Posted in Business