Goodward Construction
Established for over 20 years in the construction industry, Goodward Construction has built a reputation as a trusted leader in both residential renovations and exceptional commercial projects.
From modern architectural designs to sustainable building solutions, every project reflects a commitment to deliver high-quality craftmanship. Goodward’s team of skilled tradesmen focus on delivering excellence, on time and within budget.
The business’s expertise ensures that every material chosen and every detail crafted reflects a commitment to lasting quality and customer satisfaction.
More than just completing projects, Goodward focuses on building long-lasting relationships, continuing to support clients long after the final details are completed.
Commercial expertise
Goodward has a proven track record in delivering a range of commercial construction projects, including business offices designed for safe, comfortable, and efficient use; new builds, from small-scale developments to large industrial units; factory expansions & renovations; car & lorry parks; drainage installation & repairs; earthworks & groundworks.
The contractor recently completed an industrial unit extension at Line Equipment’s headquarters in Nottingham. The project has enabled Line Equipment to significantly expand their operations while maintaining full functionality of their existing facilities throughout construction, a testament to Goodward’s commitment to minimising disruption and delivering on time. The 1,291 sq ft extension was completed in just under 3 months and included structural steelwork, insulated cladding, new personnel and loading doors, upgraded electrical systems, and improved internal logistics flow. The result is a modern, energy-efficient space that supports Line Equipment’s future growth ambitions.
Residential expertise
Goodward approaches every residential project with the understanding that your home is a deeply personal expression of your lifestyle and values.
Quality is the cornerstone of the firm’s work. Goodward partner with trusted local suppliers and skilled craftsmen to source durable, sustainable materials that stand the test of time. From foundation to roofing, the business prioritises precision in every phase of construction, ensuring structural integrity and attention to even the smallest details, such as trimwork, cabinetry, or lighting placement.
The team also integrates smart-home technology and eco-friendly features, such as solar panels, to reduce your environmental footprint. Goodward believes a well-built home should not only look beautiful but also operate seamlessly, providing peace of mind for years to come.
Goodward’s residential expertise spans a wide range of projects, including new build homes, full home renovations, hard landscaping work, luxury swimming pools, personal tennis courts, and riding arenas.
To learn more about Goodward Construction, please visit: https://www.goodwardconstruction.co.uk/
Scenariio strengthens partnership with Treetops Hospice
Derby-based smart building and IT infrastructure specialists Scenariio have donated £3,500 to Treetops Hospice, extending a relationship that began during a special DIY SOS: The Big Build for BBC Children in Need project.
Scenariio was one of many local businesses invited to contribute to the creation of Saplings, a dedicated children’s counselling and therapy centre built as an addition to the hospice’s site in Risley, Derbyshire. Nestled among countryside and surrounded by peaceful, volunteer-maintained gardens, Saplings was designed to provide a safe, calming space for children experiencing bereavement and emotional distress.
As part of the project, Scenariio integrated circadian smart-lighting across the building. The system subtly shifts throughout the day to mirror natural daylight, regulating children’s sleep rhythms when they’re at home and supporting better moods by reducing disruptive artificial light.
The donation from Scenariio will make a significant difference to the hospice’s front-line services. Natalie Godrich, relationship manager at Treetops Hospice, said: “This incredible gift could fund 32 nights of Hospice at Home nursing care, or provide 101 one-to-one bereavement counselling sessions for a child or adult. That’s life-changing support – and we’re truly grateful to the Scenariio team for continuing to stand with us.”
Rob Pritchard, managing director at Scenariio, said: “Our relationship with Treetops began during the DIY SOS build, when we installed our smart lighting in the new Saplings centre. After the project, we stayed in touch and learned more about the hospice’s vital work and the ongoing need for funding.
“Their passion and impact moved us to name Treetops our charity of the year. We’re proud to offer this donation and we’re looking forward to getting more involved by volunteering later this year.”
Private schools in Derbyshire close after financial struggles
Two independent Catholic schools in Derbyshire, Mount St Mary’s College in Spinkhill and Balborough Hall School, have shut their doors after the charitable trust running them entered administration.
The closure follows years of financial difficulties, which began in 2015, with the schools relying on over £3m in loans from the Jesuits in Britain charity. Despite efforts to find a new owner, the trust was unable to secure a viable solution, with a growing debt load and no clear path to financial recovery.
The trust cited wider industry challenges, including the introduction of VAT on school fees in January and the removal of business rates relief for independent schools, both of which have placed additional pressure on the sector.
Mount St Mary’s College and Balborough Hall, both established in the 19th century, became a charitable trust in 2004. The school closures impact pupils, staff, and families, and further updates will be provided soon.
Industry data suggests that around 50 private schools in the UK close each year due to financial pressures and declining student enrolments. In this case, the trust had been operating a significant deficit for over five years, even before the end of tax breaks in 2025.
Yusen Logistics to acquire Walden Group’s healthcare logistics business
Yusen Logistics, a subsidiary of NYK Group, is set to acquire the healthcare logistics division of the Walden Group. The transaction involves purchasing the entire share capital of Movianto International B.V. through a Put Option Agreement with Walden Group International Holding B.V.
Following the necessary consultations with works councils under European law, Yusen Logistics Europe (YLEU) and Walden will proceed to sign a Share Purchase Agreement. The acquisition will make Movianto a fully owned subsidiary of YLEU, subject to regulatory approval.
The healthcare logistics business being acquired includes Movianto, Eurotranspharma, Transpharma International, and Walden Digital. The division provides a range of services, such as contract logistics, 4PL, and temperature-controlled transport, across 12 countries in Europe. Walden Digital offers advanced supply chain visibility solutions, which complement Yusen’s existing logistics capabilities.
This acquisition marks a significant step in Yusen Logistics’ strategic expansion in the healthcare logistics sector, a key growth area for the company. The acquisition will bolster Yusen’s presence in Europe and enhance its ability to deliver high-value services globally. It follows earlier acquisitions in the UK and Netherlands, reinforcing Yusen Logistics’ position in the global logistics market.
Utility and infrastructure service provider takes 10,000 sq ft at Derby business park
Network Plus has relocated to new offices at Brunel House, within London & Continental Railways’ RTC Business Park, Derby.
The business has taken over 10,000 sq ft of modern, open plan accommodation, which benefits from on-site facilities within the business park, including a refurbished campus, restaurant/catering facility and a variety of conference rooms.
Network Plus delivers essential utility and infrastructure services for the UK’s major providers of gas, power, telecoms, transport, water and waste water.
Steve Squire, executive director at Network Plus, said: “Choosing the right location was the first step. We sought an address that was not simply a place to work, but one that suited the needs of our staff. The search took us through numerous neighbourhoods, each with their own unique characteristics.
“Eventually, we found a building that resonated with our needs and had the additional facilities to make the workplace an enjoyable and comfortable experience.”
Darran Severn, director at FHP Property Consultants, said: “Pleasingly, there has been good activity within the office sector across Derby this year, and this is one of a number of office lettings over 10,000ft2.
“As a result there is a limited availability of space particularly over 5,000ft². We are continuing to see businesses relocate to better quality office space that can boost creativity, collaboration and employee wellbeing.”
Healthcare equipment supplier faces financial collapse, risks service disruption
NRS Healthcare, a significant supplier of home healthcare equipment across England and Northern Ireland, is reportedly on the verge of insolvency. The company, which works with local councils and the NHS, could run out of cash by the end of the week, potentially disrupting services for vulnerable patients.
Local authorities, particularly in southeast England, have expressed concerns about the potential impact, including the risk to patient safety and the ability to meet legal obligations to provide community support. The company supplies critical equipment such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, and fall-monitoring devices, and serves as a key partner for about 40% of healthcare equipment deliveries in England.
The firm has faced several challenges, including a costly cyberattack and financial strain from unprofitable contracts. Rising inflation and increasing operational costs, including national insurance contributions, have compounded the situation. While NRS has begun transferring services to alternative suppliers, local authorities are working to mitigate any disruption by seeking temporary solutions. A government spokesperson confirmed that they are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with partners to ensure continuity of care.
Just 2 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025!
With only two weeks remaining until nominations close for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, ensure to submit your entries for the 10th annual celebration of the property and construction industry by Friday 15th August.
The Bricks shine a light on the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Take this chance to showcase exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as prestige developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes.
It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony.
To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here, or on the category headings below.
Categories include:- Contractor of the Year
- Developer of the Year
- Architects of the Year
- Most Active Agent
- Deal of the Year
- Residential Development of the Year
- Sustainable Development of the Year
- Commercial Development of the Year
- Excellence in Design
- Responsible Business of the Year
- Overall Winner
Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.
A glittering awards ceremony revealing winners will take place on Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, also offering the perfect opportunity to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region. The event will additionally feature Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker. Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, click here to secure yours. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements.The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Wavensmere scoops two City Heritage Awards for Derby’s Nightingale Quarter restoration
Wavensmere Homes has been awarded two George Rennie City Heritage Awards for the restoration works at its £175m Nightingale Quarter by Derby’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee.
The annual recognition made by the Conservation Area Advisory Committee is in memory of the services of the former long standing Conservation Officer for Derby City, Mr George Rennie. All developments that take place within Derby’s Conservation Areas – or if they involve buildings on the Statutory or Local Lists – are eligible.
Entries are assessed on the design, selection and use of materials, the overall execution and standard of craftsmanship, the project’s harmony with the street or its surroundings, and whether it enhances a Conservation Area, or a Listed or Locally Listed building.
Wavensmere’s restoration of the two Pepperpot towers at the front of the 18.5-acre Nightingale Quarter scheme, on London Road picked up the first award, presented by Councillor Ajit Atwal, the Mayor of the City of Derby for 2025-26.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: “The transformation of the Nightingale Quarter, and the restoration of the two Pepperpot towers, has breathed new life into our city centre whilst honouring Derby’s proud heritage.
“Wavensmere has carried out incredible work to turn what was once a derelict site into a thriving community hub which has been carefully restored, and I’m thrilled that they have been awarded two George Rennie City Heritage Awards.
“These awards reflect our mission of transforming Derby’s city centre whilst honouring its heritage. Together, with our partners, we are creating a city that we can all be proud of for our community.”
Paul McLocklin, Chair of Derby’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee, said: “These impressive buildings were part of the former Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, are locally listed and very distinct.
“The external appearance of these characterful and locally distinct buildings has been transformed by careful repair of their roofs and masonry, so they now make a positive impact on the surrounding area and street scene. There is now The Pepperpot restaurant in one with a high quality glazed extension, while the other has been converted to a gym.”
The second award was also presented to Wavensmere for the relocation of the Grade II Listed Queen Victoria Statue and meticulous repairs to the original stone boundary wall to the site. The works also included careful relocation of the granite base and bronze statue and intricate repairs and lime mortar repointing to the stone walls.
Ben Clarke, Technical Director for Wavensmere Homes, said: “We are honoured that our design focus and investment into the restoration of the original DRI relics has been recognised by Derby City Council’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee.
“The historic significance and beauty of the two pepperpots are the pièce de resistance of the Nightingale Quarter community, which is now home to around 1,500 people.
“Taking pride of place in front of The Pepperpot restaurant is the Queen Victoria statue, which was erected in 1906 and unveiled by King Edward VII, commemorating her official opening of the former Derbyshire Royal Infirmary in 1894. This is the only statue honouring her 63-year reign across the whole of Derbyshire and is a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Victorian era.”
The 18.5-acre redundant 19th Century DRI hospital site was mostly demolished and had lain derelict for a decade, before Wavensmere Homes took ownership in 2019.
The regeneration specialist commenced construction in 2020 and is now in the final phases of delivering 125 houses, 800 apartments, an interactive community garden in partnership with Down to Earth Derby, The Pepperpot restaurant, residents’ gym, children’s play area and an expansive co-working facility.
Local commuters welcome upgrades to Castle Line
Commuters travelling between Nottingham, Newark and Lincoln have given their support for proposed upgrades to the Castle Line that would see faster trains along the route.
The route is a critical east-west link between Nottingham and Lincoln, serving a number of urban and rural areas. The line plays a critical role in connecting suburban and rural communities with the cities on either end of the line. But currently, only 10% of trips between these two cities are made by train.
The proposed upgrades, put forward to the Department for Transport by Midlands Connect, aim to increase train speeds along the route from a typical 50mph to 75mph, improving journey times, making rail travel more attractive and reducing reliance on cars.
Midlands Connect say that by improving connectivity along the route, the Castle Line could drive economic development, promote more sustainable travel and foster social mobility along the route, helping to address areas of deprivation. It is estimated that the project would cost £18 million and deliver a £2 return in regional benefits for every £1 invested.
Midlands Connect recently visited platforms on the route and spoke with commuters at rush hour about the proposed upgrades and how they would be impacted.
James Naish, MP for Rushcliffe and chair of the East Midlands All Party Political Group, said: “I strongly support Midlands Connect’s outline business case for funding to improve the Castle Line between Nottingham and Lincoln, allowing for faster and more frequent trains along the route. The Castle Line is a critical local line, connecting many suburban and rural communities to jobs, services, and opportunities in both major cities.
“Nottingham and Lincoln are fantastic cities, homes to a diverse range of businesses and excellent universities. By better connecting them to the local communities in between, we can help to improve social mobility and drive forwards economic growth while promoting more sustainable transport choices.
“I fully back this proposal.”
Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said: “Improvements to this corridor between Nottingham and Lincoln will make life easier for businesses, communities, and visitors to this area. The scheme will tackle the slow and infrequent rail services which have resulted in relatively few journeys being made by train.
“The need for sustainable transport solutions is greater than ever before. This project represents the first step in attracting more passengers to use the trains, to allow further improvements in the future.
“Midlands Connect is committed to making the case for this strategic investment to boost the economy in the Midlands and improve links between these two great cities.”
Commuters raised concerns that the current rail provision between Lincoln and Nottingham is presenting a challenge to accessing employment across both cities. Midlands Connect has said that the improvements would help to increase access to jobs and address social mobility in the rural and suburban locations along the route.
Midlands Connect continue to champion the upgrades to the line, with commuters along the route echoing the sentiment of the local tourism industry who also backed the proposals in October 2024.
