New growth strategy revealed for Chesterfield

A new growth strategy for Chesterfield has today been revealed, as well as details of commercial property projects that will deliver more than 1m sq ft of new office and industrial space over the next two years.

Speaking at the UKREiiF event, Dr Huw Bowen, chief executive of Chesterfield Borough Council, said that Chesterfield was “delivering consistent and sustainable business growth”, and had seen interest in its commercial space increase from both local start-ups and companies considering relocation to the town since the pandemic lockdowns.

Data shared in Chesterfield’s growth strategy reveal that the town’s business population has grown by more than a fifth (21%) in the last decade and created 2,000 new jobs, including 1,800 high-value roles in sectors such as advanced manufacturing and professional services. Chesterfield aims to attract a further 400 businesses and 2,000 more jobs to the town by 2030.

Chesterfield has also earmarked several prime locations for new residential development as part of plans to build more than 4,000 new homes by 2035. The number of new homes built in the town has exceeded targets in the last three years, and data from Home.co.uk shows that residential properties in Chesterfield sell faster, on average, than in Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby.

Bowen said: “Chesterfield is delivering consistent and sustainable growth, and becoming a destination of choice for entrepreneurs, knowledge workers and investors seeking a compelling work-life alternative to big cities. Our investments in assets, infrastructure, and partnerships are fuelling the transition to a higher-skilled, higher-wage economy. Our indigenous business base is growing, and we’ve seen enquiries from companies considering relocation to Chesterfield rocket since the pandemic.”

Peter Swallow, chair of Destination Chesterfield, added: “Chesterfield is a great place to live, and now, an even better place to do business. We’re investing in high-quality commercial spaces, opening up opportunities for more high-quality homes, and creating an environment that nurtures both residents and entrepreneurs. With our strategic location, culture of invention and competitive cost base, Chesterfield is the perfect location for startups, scaleups, innovators and investors.”