The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) project is a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, working with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield College, Derby University and Newcastle University.
A potential opportunity has arisen at the Barrow Hill Engine Shed site (near Staveley, Chesterfield) to develop a new facility for engineering businesses operating in the rail sector and supporting the rail sector supply chain.
It is currently envisaged that the new centre would have training and education facilities for local providers and laboratories to support research and innovation in the sector, particularly in rail engineering, digital and joining technologies. Alongside this, workshops and offices will be available for businesses.
Chesterfield Borough Council has appointed Focus Consultants and Maber Architects to complete a feasibility study for the proposed new facility. As part of this, Focus Consultants are seeking the input of rail sector businesses – particularly engineering based businesses and their supply chain to help inform the proposals and determine the level of need and demand.
Heather Frecklington, Partner at Focus Consultants said “As part of our feasibility study, we are really keen to secure the input of businesses who may be interested in being involved in the project or just have a view of the project proposals. We understand you may have already provided some similar information to inform proposals as part of the Rail Sector Deal and we apologise for any duplication. To enable us to determine the level of need and demand for the proposed facilities at Barrow Hill specifically, it is important we ask these questions – your understanding is appreciated”
The questionnaire can be accessed here https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/DRIIVe
If you have any queries about the questionnaire, please do not hesitate to contact Focus Consultants on 0115 976 5050 or enquiries@focus-consultants.com.
