New development set to build on business park’s success

Plans for a major extension to a Derbyshire business park, potentially creating 800 jobs, have been given the planning go-ahead.

HBD, the developer behind Markham Vale, will work with Devonshire Property Group to create an extension to Markham Vale North after winning planning approval from both Chesterfield Borough Council and Bolsover District Council.

It follows three years of extensive discussions with both councils and the local community.

The development will boast strong sustainability credentials, with an extensive landscaping plan that protects and improves the existing river corridor.

Significant planting will include around 5,700 new trees (including 2.15 hectares of new woodland planting), 3.7 hectares of new grassland habitat and 2km of new native hedgerow to screen the development and create areas of new habitat.

Markham Vale, a joint venture partnership between HBD and Derbyshire County Council, which began in 2006, has created more than 2,700 jobs across a wide range of sectors, including advanced manufacturing and logistics.

It is home to a range of businesses, including Bilstein Group, which manufactures and distributes automotive parts, Granger International manufacturers of waterproof outdoor products and shoe care products, and Sterigenics, makers of sterile healthcare products.

Andrew Byrne, from Devonshire Property Group, said: “We are delighted that both planning committees have approved this exciting project.

“This is a high-quality extension to an already successful employment location and will make a real contribution to the strength of the local economy and the environment.

“It is a further demonstration of how the Devonshire Property business is actively investing into both Chesterfield and Bolsover, delivering on our stated ambitions of creating jobs and opportunities for local communities.”