TUC Midlands joins supporters of Midlands Rail Hub
The TUC Midlands has joined supporters of the Midlands Rail Hub project, news that has been welcomed by Midlands Connect.
Maria Machancoses, CEO at Midlands Connect said: “It is fantastic news the TUC in the Midlands has signed up as a supporter of the Midlands Rail Hub. The Rail Hub is our flagship project at Midlands Connect and the support of the TUC is a welcome one. We know that their members in transport, health and other unions are closely aligned to the government’s missions and we hope they can see, like we do, the Rail Hub will help deliver on these.”
Rob Johnston, interim Regional Secretary at TUC Midlands said: “The Midlands Rail Hub is a vital infrastructure project for the Midlands. Delivery is vital if we are to maximise economic growth in our region and to drive the inclusive growth that will provide the good jobs and opportunities that we want for our communities.
“We look forward to working with Midlands Connect and all other regional stakeholders to make the case for the delivery of this vital project as quickly as possible.”
Delivered in full, the proposals would provide a massive uplift in capacity in the railway network in the Midlands, with up to 100 extra trains into Birmingham each day and many more services each day between our biggest cities in the West and East Midlands.
New analysis has shown that 12,750 new jobs are expected to become available thanks to the Midlands Rail Hub project. The Rail Hub is the region’s biggest rail improvement scheme and will serve more than 50 stations, covering 7 million people. Work is expected to run from 2025 until 2033 and will see the building of two ‘chords’ as well as further engineering interventions throughout the region.
Derby commercial vehicle service providers makes acquisition
Derby-based Motus Vehicle Solutions, commercial vehicle service providers and a part of Motus Group (UK), has acquired Aftercare Response, an autonomous division of the Bevan Group.
Aftercare Response is a nationwide provider of breakdown assistance, tail lift maintenance, and emergency repairs.
This acquisition marks the latest in Motus Vehicle Solutions’ ongoing expansion strategy, as the group continues to strengthen its portfolio of specialist services and extend its customer offering.
Peter Glover, Managing Director of Motus Vehicle Solutions, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aftercare Response into the Motus Vehicle Solutions family. Their expertise in rapid response services and customer support aligns perfectly with our mission to provide the best possible service to our customers.
“Our plan for Aftercare Response is to build on their position by further strengthening its operations and ensuring they benefit from the resources of the wider group. This acquisition not only broadens our service capabilities, but also ensures customers experience improved efficiency and reduced downtime across their fleets.”
Aftercare Response’s existing team and services will remain in place, ensuring continuity for customers, while benefiting from the enhanced resources and support of the Motus Vehicle Solutions group.
Clowes Developments promotes two to associate director
Clowes Developments has promoted two employees to associate director. Sarah Day and Rob Hopkinson have been working towards their promotion since they joined the business early in 2022.
Thomas Clowes, Managing Director of Clowes Developments commented on their achievements: “Developing our team and rewarding hard work with opportunities to progress is something we’ve always been proud of. The promotion of Sarah and Rob further reinforces our commitment to nurturing talent.
“From day one they’ve bought into our ethos and line up with our ambitions for the next few years, both in terms of ethic and personality.
“Sarah has brought a keen eye for quickly identifying opportunities and analysing market trends (along with an enviable phone book) whilst Rob has been the driving force behind addressing our infrastructure concerns in a prompt and cost-effective way. Two valuable members of the team I’m happy to see moving forward.”
In 2022 Sarah made the decision to diversify her existing experience in residential development to a wider-ranging and more commercial focus of Clowes. Supporting Robert Hepwood, land and planning director, Sarah joined the Group as a senior land manager. She has been focused on identifying new land opportunities and managing the existing portfolio by progressing planning permissions and maximising land receipts.
Sarah said: “Reflecting on Clowes’ remarkable achievements over the past few years, I am both proud and grateful to be part of a company that prioritises business advancement, staff development and the delivery of exceptional quality across the portfolio.
“As we look to the future, I recognise the ambitious targets that lie ahead. However, I am confident that, through our collective hard work and dedication, we will continue to affirm Clowes’ position as a major influence and a respected leader in the industry.”
Rob joined Clowes Developments in 2022, transitioning from a regional house builder to lead the Group’s technical function as technical manager. As an experienced civil engineer, Rob supports the Land & Planning team in acquiring new opportunities, advancing sites within the Group’s extensive portfolio and managing infrastructure delivery on active development sites.
Rob said: “The past two years have been incredibly rewarding, filled with opportunities for growth and learning and I would like to thank the team at Clowes for their support.
“It is refreshing to be part of a business where hard work and dedication is recognised, and I’m very proud to have taken this next step in my career. I look forward to contributing further to the Group’s growth and success in the future.”
With the support of Sarah and Rob, the Group has acquired two new sites within the last few months. Harrier Park and Pleasley Hill, both on the outskirts of Nottingham, will provide the Group with a total of 800,000 sq ft of commercial development opportunities, housing, convenience and leisure use facilities designed to enhance their respective surrounding areas with employment and improved amenities. Works have already begun to deliver both schemes; it is expected that both business parks will be operational by the end of 2025.
4Zero Marketing raises over £1,000 for Baby Loss Awareness Week
In support of Baby Loss Awareness Week, the 4Zero Marketing team recently took part in a 26-mile charity walk around Nottingham, successfully raising vital funds for Forever Stars, a charity dedicated to supporting families affected by baby loss.
This event united businesses and individuals, raising awareness and providing essential financial support for the charity’s bereavement services.
Baby Loss Awareness Week occurs every October, offering a time to remember babies lost during pregnancy or shortly after birth while raising awareness of the necessary support for grieving families. Charities like Forever Stars are instrumental in providing emotional support and bereavement services, including dedicated spaces within local hospitals.
The charity walk commenced at the Harrington Arms in Sawley, Nottingham, and journeyed past notable landmarks such as Attenborough Nature Reserve, Beeston Marina, Trent Bridge, City Ground, Meadow Lane, Holme Pierrepont, and concluded at the Boat and Horses back in Beeston.
4Zero Marketing joined other businesses and dedicated individuals in this important initiative to bolster the vital work of Forever Stars for bereaved families.
Jemma Taylor-Smith, Director of 4Zero Marketing, said: “Walking for Forever Stars allowed us to come together for a purpose that is truly meaningful. We were touched by the stories shared and feel grateful to have played a part in raising awareness and funds for such a vital service.”
Emily Miller, Director of 4Zero Marketing, added: “Participating in this walk was a deeply moving experience for our team. We are incredibly proud to support Forever Stars and contribute to the awareness and understanding of baby loss. It’s a cause that resonates with many, and we hope our efforts will help make a difference.”
Founded in 2014 by Richard and Michelle Daniels after the stillbirth of their daughter Emily, Forever Stars has worked tirelessly to provide bereavement suites in local hospitals, offering families much-needed care during their most challenging times.
Thanks to the generous support of donors, 4Zero Marketing raised over £1,000 for Forever Stars, aiding the charity in its ongoing efforts.
Donations are still being accepted via a Just Giving page.
East Midlands business confidence rises in October
Business confidence in the East Midlands rose 11 points during October to 50%, 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 64%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up 13 points to 35%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 50% (vs. 39% in September).
Looking ahead to the next six months, businesses in the East Midlands identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (50%), evolving their offering, for instance by introducing new products or services (31%) and entering new markets (30%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
National picture
Overall UK business confidence dipped slightly in October to 44% – down three points from September’s 47%.
This was driven by marginal falls in firms’ confidence about their own trading prospects (53% vs. 56% in September) and the economy (35% vs. 38% in September).
The North East of England was the most confident UK nation or region in October (63%), followed by London (56%) and the North West (53%).
Sector insights
Firms’ trading prospects pulled back for the third consecutive month in manufacturing to 46%, the lowest level since March. There were also moderate declines of 3 points in both retail and services to 51% and 57% respectively.
Expectations in construction bucked the trend, rising to 50%.
Dave Atkinson, Regional Director for the East Midlands at Lloyds, said: “It’s great to see East Midlands firms bucking the national trend with a rise in confidence, and particularly encouraging to see many businesses feeling optimistic when it comes to their own prospects.
“Firms will be working hard to translate this sentiment into further growth, and we’ll continue offer the support they need to help them meet their goals.”
Corby investor acquires refrigerated coldroom firm
Nene Capital, a Corby-based investor in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has acquired Cold Tech (Services), a refrigerated coldroom and cabinet maintenance firm.
This acquisition enhances Nene Capital’s portfolio with a company renowned for its bespoke solutions in food, retail, pharmaceutical, and logistics sectors.
Cold Tech (Services) Ltd. will continue under its established brand, ensuring uninterrupted service and trusted relationships. Nene Capital will support Cold Tech by investing in resources to expand its capabilities while maintaining quality and customer satisfaction.
Stephen Bayliss, Managing Director of Nene Capital, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Cold Tech (Services) Ltd. to our growing portfolio. This acquisition represents a significant step in our mission to invest in businesses that offer sustainable value and operational excellence.”
Simon Stringer, Finance Director of Nene Capital, said: “Cold Tech is a well-established business with over ten years of successful trading during which it has achieved a strong position in its market. We are excited to take the business into the next stage of its development.”
The transaction was supported by the corporate deal team at solicitors Howes Percival LLP and the Growth Finance team at Allica Bank.
117-home Woodthorpe development gets green light
Plans have been approved by Charnwood Borough Council to pave the way for a new 117-home housing development to be built in Woodthorpe.
Miller Homes, the housebuilder behind the scheme, is to build 117 new homes on a 14.4-acre parcel of land to the south of Terry Yardley Way in the village, including 35 homes to be provided as affordable housing.
The plans were approved by the council at its planning committee meeting on Thursday, 24 October, with construction work set to begin on the site of the new homes in early 2025.
Miller Homes East Midlands, whose regional offices are located at nearby Pride Park in Derby, will build a mix of two to five-bedroom homes for private sale in Woodthorpe, as well as a collection of one to four-bedroom affordable properties, at its development which is to be known as Meadowbrook Chase.
The developer will also provide a locally equipped area of play to the south of the development, which will include a variety of sustainable play equipment for children, such as swings, a see-saw and a multi-play structure.
Tom Roberts, operations director for Miller Homes East Midlands, said: “Our plans for this development in Woodthorpe have been carefully considered throughout all phases of the planning process, and so we’re naturally really pleased to have secured consent via Charnwood Borough Council for our proposed scheme.
“Woodthorpe has been identified as an area for residential growth within the local plan for the area, and we will now be able to deliver new career opportunities within the jobs market locally, as well as enhancements to local services and support for the community, through our 117-home development, to be known as Meadowbrook Chase.
“Miller Homes will be building 82 homes for private sale, alongside a further 35 affordable homes at this site, which will go some way towards achieving the council’s goals from its local plan and will deliver attractive new build housing for this area, with a strong mix of size and style of property to suit homebuyers looking to move to or within Woodthorpe.”
Many of the properties to be built by Miller Homes will feature bird or bat boxes to enhance and protect local wildlife, while the developer’s landscape strategy also provides areas to the north of the site earmarked for a planting buffer and an attenuation pond to support the drainage system at the site.
The first homes are due to be completed in Summer 2025.
Rail links could boost tourism economies in East Midlands hotspots
Improvements to the Castle Line rail corridor in the East Midlands would boost economic growth in tourism and hospitality sectors, according to the latest research.
The Castle Line is an important route linking multiple key destinations – Nottingham, a business and nightlife hotspot, renowned for the historic legend of Robin Hood, Lincoln, a historic cathedral-city, and Newark, a quaint market town.
Midlands Connect submitted plans to upgrade the route, to the Department for Transport last year. The proposals include increasing the line speed from predominantly 50mph to 75mph, with a long-term aim to double the frequency of services in the future.
A recent report titled ‘Tourism on Track’ explores how improved connections to the East Midlands would expand the visitor bases of these hotspots, shift the demographic groups attracted to the area and reduce car use.
Hamish Falconer, MP for Lincoln, said: “I wholeheartedly support Midlands Connect’s outline business case for funding to improve the Castle Line from Nottingham to Lincoln, allowing for faster and more frequent trains along the route.
“Lincoln has a lot to offer its visitors, with sites of major historic significance, as well as a bustling network of medieval streets, packed with quaint pubs and charming independent shops. But it is clear that the state of the city’s rail links has become a barrier to the city’s growth as a competitive tourist destination.
“Visitors are a major driver of our local economy, and by investing in the Castle Line rail upgrades – better connecting Lincoln to the wider Midlands and East Coast main line – we would support our tourism industry to flourish.
“Midlands Connect’s plans have my full support, and I hope to see the project progress.”
Tourism stakeholders in the East Midlands outlined concern that the current rail provision between Lincoln and Nottingham is presenting a challenge to the tourism and hospitality sectors in both cities.
The research found these sentiments were shared by rail customers who referenced issues such as slow, crowded and infrequent trains, affecting the appeal of using the trains for tourism.
Current timetable re-structuring is providing the opportunity to increase to two services an hour between Nottingham and Lincoln and these plans are also being considered.
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “Investing in the Castle Line rail corridor will be a significant step forward for the East Midlands’ visitor economy.
“By improving the speed and frequency of services between key destinations like Nottingham, Lincoln, and Newark, we will unlock new opportunities for tourism growth across the region.
“This investment would not only attract more visitors to our historic cities and market towns, boosting local businesses in hospitality and leisure, but also support sustainable travel options, reducing car use and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
“The East Midlands is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, and better rail connections will ensure more people can enjoy everything we have to offer.”
Nottinghamshire motorcycle retailer falls into administration
Pidcock Motor Cycles Limited, an approved motorcycle retailer for a number of well-known manufacturers, has entered administration.
The Nottinghamshire business fell into financial difficulty following a challenging trading period linked to cost inflation and weak consumer demand.
Nathan Jones and John Lowe, partners at FRP Advisory, were appointed as joint administrators on 21st October 2024.
Through an accelerated sales process, the administrators have secured interest in the company’s BMW site and are currently considering offers from prospective buyers. The company’s Ducati and Triumph sites have been closed permanently.
18 employees have been made redundant across the two closed sites and are being supported with applications to the redundancy payments service.
Nathan Jones, joint administrator of Pidcock Motor Cycles and partner at FRP, said: “Pidcock is not the first retailer to struggle in challenging market conditions over the past year. The company is a reputable seller, partnered with some of the world’s best-known bike brands, and we’re not surprised that there has been interest from prospective buyers.
“While it’s unfortunate that a viable route forward for all three sites hasn’t been possible, we’re hopeful of a positive outcome for the Company’s BMW outlet. Securing that, as well as supporting employees affected by the closures, is our focus now.”
Sales from all of the company’s sites have been paused and a managed system put in place to allow owners to collect vehicles that have already been purchased. All customer deposits are being protected throughout the administration process and FRP plans to contact customers about how to collect either their vehicle or their deposit in the coming days.
Plans submitted for new Mansfield homes
Plans for 380 new homes at Penniment Farm, Abbott Road, Mansfield, have been submitted to Mansfield District Council.
The site, which is part of the Mansfield Local Plan, already has outline planning permission for up to 400 homes. The application includes significant financial contributions exceeding £2.5 million, including nearly £1.6 million contribution towards primary school education in the Pleasley, along with over £500,000 allocated for bus service improvements. The proposed development will feature a mix of 1 to 4-bedroom homes, all fitted with electric vehicle chargers. As part of the development, 28 homes will be offered as affordable rent or shared ownership options. Residents will benefit from approximately 6.25 acres of public open space, equivalent to four football pitches, and two on-site children’s play areas. The development also features biodiversity enhancements such as a bat commuting corridor, hedgehog highways and bird boxes. George Breed, Senior Land and Planning Manager for Persimmon Nottingham, said: “We are delighted to have submitted our reserved matters application for Penniment Farm, this development will provide high-quality new homes for local homebuyers alongside significant investment into the local area. “We look forward to working with Mansfield District Council and local stakeholders to bring this project to life.”