East Midlands business confidence rises as more firms plan to hire

Business confidence in the East Midlands rose six points during March to 43%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in the East Midlands reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up seven points at 50%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up five points to 35%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 43% (vs. 37% in February). A net balance of 42% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up seven points on last month. Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (47%), entering new markets (39%) and investing in their team, for example through training (38%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. This data was gathered between the 3rd – 17th March, ahead of the Spring Statement. National picture  Overall, UK business confidence was 49% in March – the same as in February. While firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects held steady at 57%, their confidence in the wider economy dropped one point to 40%. The West Midlands and London were the joint most-confident of any UK nation or region in March (both 62%), followed by the North West (59%). Sector insights Retail confidence rose seven points to 58%, a post-pandemic high, reflecting positive trading prospects. In contrast, the manufacturing sector saw the largest decrease in business confidence this month, declining 12 points to 39%, due to increased concerns about supply chain disruptions. Construction firms also saw a decline to 48% and businesses in the service sector saw confidence decline to 47%. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds, said: “It’s great to see business confidence in the East Midlands rise this month, and particularly to see it driven by greater confidence from firms in their own prospects. “As local companies press ahead with their growth plans, we’ll continue to provide our tailored, on-the-ground support – helping them make the investments they need to achieve their ambitions.”

Zeeko moves into Space Park Leicester research lab

An ultra-precision polishing technology firm has moved into a research lab at the University of Leicester’s £100m space research and innovation facility. Zeeko Ltd, known for machines that produce high-precision optics for the space industry, has taken up a research lab at Space Park Leicester to further their work in optical innovation. The lab at Space Park Leicester will serve as a hub for Zeeko Ltd’s research project focused on optics for laser fusion, a technology with the potential to change the landscape of energy generation. This project, which brings significant research and development activity to Leicester, is set to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of freeform optics. The research conducted in their lab will not only contribute to scientific advancements but may also play a direct role in the manufacturing of parts for future satellite missions. Richard Freeman, Managing Director of Zeeko Ltd, said: “We moved to Space Park Leicester because it provides access to highly knowledgeable people, important diagnostic instrumentation and a fertile environment for developing links with potential end-users of research outputs. “Our new lab is allowing us to further our research in optics for laser fusion and continue to provide groundbreaking solutions for the space industry.” Zeeko Ltd’s Ultra-Precision Surfaces (UPS) research group has established an advanced optical manufacturing research facility at the Leicester venue run in collaboration with Space Park Leicester. The group has been awarded the Super-polished Freeform Optical Systems (SFOS) project. Funded by the Eureka SMART program, the project is led by Zeeko Ltd and brings together Space Park Leicester and the University of Leicester with Thin Metal Films Ltd and Swiss academic and industry partners. The project’s primary objective is to develop superior processes and metrology to deliver complex ‘freeform’ optics of unprecedented quality.

£10m Chesterfield ‘green skills’ hub takes shape

Chesterfield College’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences building, an innovative hub for sustainable engineering and science, has marked a key milestone.

Chesterfield College, Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, local employers and other key stakeholders attended a steel signing ceremony for the project to mark the completion of the steel frame at the 2,450m2 new-build facility.

Set to open in 2026, the project will house cutting-edge facilities for students across science, engineering, manufacturing, construction and automotive studies. This includes an advanced engineering lab, electrical installation workshop, electric/hydrogen vehicle workshop, 3D printing and prototype workshop, science labs, general teaching and ICT suite, and collaboration space. Jonathan Sizer, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, said: “With a focus on innovation, growth and sustainability, the state-of-the-art facility is progressing well with the steel frame now complete. “We are ensuring that the project meets Chesterfield College’s mission of inspiring futures and changing lives, and look forward to continuing to work closely with students, staff and stakeholders to create a facility that everyone can be proud of. “We have extensive experience in delivering high-quality educational projects in the area, so it’s great to bring this expertise to our first project for Chesterfield College.” Julie Richards OBE, Principal and CEO, Chesterfield College, said: “After a long time in the planning stages I am absolutely delighted to finally share details of the new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences facility we will be offering to our learning community from 2026. “Concentrating on the latest industry skills and technology, with a real focus on vitally important green skills, the facility has been curated in consultation with local employers to ensure it produces a skilled workforce to supply local demand for years to come.” As part of the works, the existing North Block 1 building and temporary structure will be demolished following the completion of the new facility to make way for a revitalised green space area. Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands was appointed to deliver the project through the YORbuild3 Medium Works framework.

New homes get go-ahead in Hinckley and Bosworth

Plans for over 300 new homes have been approved by Hinckley and Bosworth Councillors across two key locations.

Persimmon Homes North Midlands’ proposals for 81 new homes in Earl Shilton were given the green light by local Councillors with 16 of the homes available through discounted ownership and social rent. Persimmon will invest £2 million through the Section 106 agreement, supporting infrastructure and services. This includes funding of over £500,000 towards primary schools and road enhancements to accommodate the new community. The housebuilder also secured further approval in Newbold Verdon, where 239 new homes will be built, with 96 designated as affordable housing. Through the Section 106 agreement Persimmon will contribute over £1.7 million, including nearly £700,000 to secondary education, over £130,000 to SEND schools, and more than £120,000 towards enhancing and maintaining existing public open spaces. In addition to these contributions, the development will provide a new country park, an 18% gain in onsite biodiversity, and two dedicated parking areas for neighbouring allotments.
Rob Blaney, Land and Planning Director for Persimmon North Midlands, said: “We are pleased to have received planning approval for these developments, which will provide high-quality homes for local people. “Our team has worked closely with Hinckley and Bosworth Council to ensure these homes meet the needs of the community. With a wide range of homes to choose from these new developments will be a fantastic place to live for homebuyers.”

Government invests £2.65bn in flood defences to protect businesses and homes

The UK Government has announced a £2.65 billion investment to build and repair more than 1,000 flood defence projects across England over the next two years. The initiative aims to protect 52,000 homes and businesses as extreme weather events become more frequent due to climate change.

A total of £430 million will fund new flood schemes, while £220 million is allocated for repairing existing defences. Additional funding will support flood response equipment, such as pumps, and public awareness initiatives.

Key projects include £34.6 million for the Derby flood risk management scheme, £13.8 million for North Portsea Island in Hampshire, £10.4 million for Preston and South Ribble, and £12.2 million for flood defences from Poole Bridge to Hunger Hill in Dorset.

The investment is part of a broader national strategy to improve climate resilience and safeguard economic infrastructure.

Volunteer-led project to assess Derby’s heritage buildings

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A project that enlists volunteers to survey Grade II listed buildings is expanding to Derby, supported by a £207,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Initially launched in Amber Valley by the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT), the “Buildings at Risk” initiative uses the B@R app to document the condition of historic properties. Volunteers assess structures from public spaces, recording details such as roof and window conditions. The data will be shared with Derby City Council to support conservation efforts.

Since the pilot’s launch, 80 volunteers have surveyed 550 buildings, flagging at-risk properties. DHBT is now seeking more participants in Derby to help protect the city’s architectural heritage.

The expansion will be introduced at events on Wednesday at The Old Bell (15:00-17:00 BST) and Thursday at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre (18:30-20:30 BST).

Ocado’s new Nottinghamshire warehouse to create 422 jobs

Ocado has received approval to open a new delivery and distribution hub at Fairham Business Park, off the A453 in Nottinghamshire. The facility will operate 24/7 and employ up to 422 people, including 358 van drivers, 24 marshallers, 17 office staff, and five maintenance workers.

The site will serve the wider Nottingham area, addressing growing demand for online grocery deliveries. Ocado plans to install fuel pumps, docking areas, CCTV, and other infrastructure upgrades.

Rushcliffe Borough Council approved the development, citing minimal impact on the surrounding environment and infrastructure. The project supports the expanding logistics sector and strengthens Ocado’s distribution network in the Midlands.

Sky shifts to digital customer service, closing call centres and cutting jobs

Sky is restructuring its customer service operations, shifting from call centres to digital support. As part of the move, the company will close three call centres in Leeds, Sheffield, and Stockport and make additional job cuts at its Dunfermline and Newcastle sites. Around 2,000 roles—roughly 7% of Sky’s workforce—are at risk.

The company invests in digital channels, including live chat and app-based support, while maintaining limited phone support. To improve efficiency, it is also developing a new “centre of excellence” in Livingston.

For businesses, the shift signals a growing reliance on automated customer service, which reduces operational costs but potentially limits direct customer interactions.

New hire strengthens estate and farm insurance expansion at Dallas Scott Davey

A specialist in agricultural and commercial insurance, Dallas Scott Davey (DSD), has appointed Toby Baker as part of its strategic growth and ongoing specialisation in estates and farm insurance. Toby, a highly experienced rural risks insurance broker, will be an integral part of the Lincoln team, heading up the company’s expansion into Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties. Toby lives in Pilton, Northamptonshire, and joins DSD, which is part of the TL Dallas Group, following a long and successful career at Lycetts. He will focus on serving farming and estate clients across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Warwickshire, and beyond. As part of DSD’s expansion strategy, the company also plans to establish a satellite office within a livestock mart, providing a local physical presence to better serve clients in the region. “I’m thrilled to be joining DSD at such an exciting time for the business,” said Toby. “The family and employee-owned company’s commitment to providing specialist agricultural insurance solutions aligns perfectly with my experience and passion for supporting rural businesses. I look forward to growing the client base and offering tailored insurance solutions across the region.” Ed Davey, co-founder of DSD, said: “Toby’s wealth of experience in farm and estate insurance makes him a fantastic addition to the team. His deep understanding of rural risks and his commitment to outstanding client service will be instrumental in strengthening our presence beyond our Lincolnshire heartland. We are delighted to have him on board.”

Shawbrook invests in digital growth as profits dip 3%

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Shawbrook Group reported a 3% decline in underlying pre-tax profits to £294 million in 2024, citing significant investment in digital and data infrastructure to support long-term expansion. Despite the drop, profitability improved in the second half of the year.

The specialist lender’s loan book grew 16% to £15.2 billion, driven by strong demand from commercial and retail customers. CEO Marcelino Castrillo remains confident in the bank’s organic growth potential, highlighting its scalable technology and diversified portfolio.

Shawbrook also reduced its cost of risk by four basis points to 47bps, attributing the improvement to a disciplined underwriting approach and enhanced data-driven portfolio management.

The bank expanded its presence in motor finance with the September acquisition of JBR Auto Holdings and signalled its readiness to pursue further strategic acquisitions.