DRIIVe is a modern rail innovation and training centre located next to Barrow Hill Roundhouse.
It provides classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.
The centre has been designed to support speciality training providers - offering rail-related education from level 2 through to postgraduate training and research. This will help ensure that local people can access the skills they need to secure careers in the rail sector.
Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe serves as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.
DRIIVe was officially opened in July 2026 with the first learners expected to start on site in October 2026.
For commercial enquiries about space at Barrow Hill or access for research please contact Barrow Hill Commercial
Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.
This project was delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society.
The new training, research, commercial office and workshop space will support more than 20 full time jobs. By year five, DRIIVe aims to support around 270 trainees, ensuring local people can access highly skilled careers in the rail industry.
