The completion of several high-quality schemes in Chesterfield has led to a significant increase in demand for office space, as reported by Destination Chesterfield. According to recent data, the opening of the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in July 2022 has fueled the demand for space in Chesterfield’s enterprise centers. Occupancy rates in the newest center have exceeded expectations, with 81 percent of the office suites now occupied, surpassing the 50 percent target set by the Chesterfield Borough Council. Additionally, nearly half of the tenants, amounting to 14 businesses, have either relocated to Chesterfield or established satellite offices in the town since July 2022.
Furthermore, established enterprise centers in Chesterfield have also witnessed a rebound in occupancy rates, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The Dunston Innovation Centre and Tapton Park Innovation Centre now boast occupancy rates of 85 percent and 87 percent, respectively. This is a significant improvement compared to the occupancy rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the centers experiencing rates below 80 percent and plummeting to as low as 57 percent.
In another positive development, two floors of One Waterside Place, a 35,000 sq ft office block located near Chesterfield’s mainline railway station, have already been occupied. The remaining space has garnered strong interest, demonstrating the demand for office space in the area. One Waterside Place, situated within the £340m Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme in Basin Square, has played a crucial role in attracting businesses to the town.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, expressed her enthusiasm for the growing local economy. She highlighted the impact of the investments made in modern and attractive office spaces, which have seamlessly attracted new businesses and generated employment opportunities for residents. The council leader further emphasized Chesterfield’s advantageous position, innovative culture, competitive cost structure, and high quality of life as key drivers of growth in the borough. This overall appeal has sparked a surge in demand from local start-ups, entrepreneurs relocating from major cities like London, Leeds, and Sheffield, as well as larger businesses seeking more space or consolidation in a central location.
Supporting the positive outlook, Tim Turner, Managing Director at Blue Deer Ltd, praised Chesterfield as a thriving business destination that aligns perfectly with the office and retail offerings available at The Glass Yard. Turner attested to the robust demand for space in the area since their establishment last year, pointing out the interest from both local companies and incoming businesses.
Overall, the completion of high-quality schemes in Chesterfield has significantly catalyzed the demand for office space, fueling economic growth in the region. The successful occupancy rates in the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, Dunston Innovation Centre, Tapton Park Innovation Centre, and One Waterside Place exemplify the town’s attractiveness to businesses of all sizes and industries.