A state-of-the-art rail innovation and training centre has officially opened in Barrow Hill. The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) offers modern classrooms, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial workshop space for businesses and learners in the rail industry.
The £6 million development was funded primarily through the Town Deal programme, with additional support from the East Midlands Combined County Authority and Chesterfield Borough Council. Ivan Fomin, independent business chair of Staveley Town Deal Board, officially opened the centre.
Training and Skills Development
DRIIVe will support specialist training providers offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research. Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice-chair of Staveley Town Deal Board, said the facility will enable local people to gain skills for quality jobs in the sector.
Plans are in development for an outreach programme with local schools to inspire the next generation of rail engineers.
Management and Partnership
Chesterfield Borough Council is delivering DRIIVe in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society. Barrow Hill Ltd, the commercial arm of the society, will manage the facility day-to-day.
Mervyn Allcock, general manager of Barrow Hill Ltd, said the centre has already received significant interest from businesses wanting to use the space. The development builds on Barrow Hill's history at the centre of Chesterfield's rail sector for over 150 years.
