Firm chosen to deliver new rail training centre

The centre is due to be built next to the Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Work to build a new rail innovation and training centre in Chesterfield is set to get under way in the new year after a contractor was chosen by the borough council.

The new venue, due to be constructed next to the Barrow Hill Roundhouse in Staveley, will offer specialist training along with research and development facilities plus commercial space for rail-related businesses.

Chesterfield Borough Council says it has appointed Stepnell Ltd to lead the project, with work on site expected to start in early 2025.

The centre - due to be named the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle - is one of several projects being funded with £25.2m from the government's Towns Fund.

The borough council said the facility would create jobs and skills opportunities for local people as well as bolstering Chesterfield's ambitions to be "a leading destination for the rail sector".

Council leader Tricia Gilby said: "It's great to see the project continue to gather pace, and we look forward to working with the contractor, and our partners, to progress construction of [the centre] early next year.

"The facility will be completed by the end of 2025."