Clegg Construction makes food bank donation

Nottingham-based contractor Clegg Construction has handed over hundreds of pounds worth of food, toiletries, nappies and other items to Maltby Foodbank in Yorkshire.

The company is partnering with Maltby Learning Trust on a £5.9m renovation scheme to repurpose the derelict Maltby Grammar School near Rotherham.

As part of its commitment to the local community, Clegg Construction held a collection for Maltby Foodbank at its head office in Nottingham and at the site.

Clegg Construction pre-construction director, Ross Crowcroft, said: “Supporting the local community wherever we are involved in a project is very important to us.

“Our teams, sub-contractors and associates have been extremely generous with their donations, and I’d like to thank them for their kindness. We hope their support will make a big difference to families and individuals in the Maltby area who are in crisis.”

Approximately 3% of families in the UK – at least 2.1m people – used a food bank in the year ending March 2022. Maltby Foodbank gave out 391 three-day emergency food supplies to people in crisis last year.

The donations from Clegg Construction – which weighed an impressive 212.5kg – were handed over at the foodbank, which is based at the Full Life Church in High Street, Maltby, and is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks supported by The Trussell Trust. They included £200 worth of donations from Linsco, a Nottingham-based recruitment company working in the building, construction and property sector.

Denise Cropper from Maltby Foodbank said: “Since 2015, Full Life Church has run our local food bank in partnership with Trussell Trust. Together, we serve around 516 families a year. 

“We are extremely grateful for this generous donation from Clegg Construction, its staff and associates. Our local community is really struggling with the rising costs, and this will help so many families in their time of crisis.   

“We want to make sure that no one in our local community has to go hungry, but we rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us. Donations such as these can make a real difference and we’d like to thank everyone for their support.” 

The collection and donation from Clegg Construction is part of a wider commitment to the Maltby area, with the company also planning to support Maltby Academy students with careers advice. 

Built in the early 1930s, Maltby Grammar School closed in 2012 and had fallen into a state of disrepair after being mothballed.

Maltby Learning Trust is now bringing the historic building back into use creating an incubator space for training and apprenticeships, bookable workspaces and serviced hot-desking, and start-up support for the leisure and hospitality sectors.

The re-purposed building – known for its impressive clock tower – will also extend Maltby Learning Trust’s Post 16 specialist facilities for students who attend Maltby Academy and Sir Thomas Wharton Academy sixth form. As part of the project, Clegg will preserve and repair the clock tower, which hasn’t worked for over 8 years.

Other members of the team on the project, which is being supported by £4.5m from The Levelling Up Fund, include Self Architects, engineer GCA Ltd and employer’s agent and project manager Cube.

Plans submitted for Derby’s Friar Gate Goods Yard redevelopment

Wavensmere Homes and Clowes Developments have submitted a full planning and listed building application to Derby City Council for the redevelopment of the city’s historic Friar Gate Goods Yard.

The detailed design proposal sets out the vision for the reanimation of two landmark Grade II listed buildings into over 110,000 sq ft of commercial space, with 276 new homes also planned for the 11.5-acre (4.96Ha) site.

A painstaking restoration of the 19th Century Bonded Warehouse and Engine House could deliver a total of 111,275 sq ft of flexible offices, health and fitness space, a restaurant/café, together with a regional sales centre for Birmingham-headquartered Wavensmere Homes.

Steps at Bonded Warehouse at Friar Gate Goods Yard

The plans also include extensive new areas of Public Open Space, including play spaces and pocket parks. A new multi-purpose public realm and community space is also proposed for the elevated area adjacent to Friar Gate Bridge, with retention of some of the original railway arch facades.

New vehicular, pedestrian and cycle access would be created at various points around the site, from Uttoxeter New Road, Great Northern Way, and Friar Gate, with the Mick Mack cycling route also extended.

Friar Gate Goods Yard has been in the ownership of the Clowes family for over 40 years, with a number of options for redevelopment proposed but not progressed, due to heritage constraints and commercial viability. Wavensmere Homes and Clowes developments have worked with Glancy Nicholls Architects and Pegasus Group to incorporate the views from over 200 local public consultation responses into the plans for the redevelopment of the derelict site.

Houses at Friar Gate Goods Yard

James Dickens, Managing Director of Wavensmere Homes, said: “This is the most comprehensive planning application we have ever submitted. We have fully 3D modelled the entirety of the 19th Century Bonded Warehouse and Engine House, which has enabled us to present how the buildings could be carefully brought back to life.

“The context of the new homes and several acres of new Public Open Space are also fully illustrated. The opportunity to work collaboratively to reanimate this landmark city centre site is an honour and the plans showcase our vision, fine attention to detail, and bold investment into this nationally important regeneration project.

“When we first revealed our indicative plans during the public consultation process, we received a pleasing amount of interest from prospective operators of the health and fitness centre, office space, and the restaurant/café – all of which will be within the Bonded Warehouse.

“We also have a database of over 500 prospective purchasers wishing to buy one of the townhouses, indicating the pent-up demand and appeal. We look forward to continuing to work with Derby City Council’s Officers, Councillors, and wider stakeholders, as this planning application is considered.”

Houses at Friar Gate Goods Yard

Adam McPartland, Director of Glancy Nicholls Architects, said: “The Friar Gate Goods Yard redevelopment plans illustrate the millions of pounds that need to be invested into saving these distressed 150-year-old listed buildings. Glancy Nicholls Architects has brought its expertise in restoration and retrofit design to sustainably restore two of Derby city centre’s most notable historic structures, providing a vibrant new chapter of their story.

“The overarching brief from Wavensmere Homes was for a huge emphasis to be placed on exemplary placemaking. By having a mix of commercial uses within the two buildings – and opening the inaccessible site up to create a series of new linear parks – it could enable hundreds of people to appreciate these heritage assets on a daily basis.

“In addition to the proposals for the listed buildings, the designs for the 227 two- and three-bedroom townhouses are bespoke. Curved and terraced street scenes celebrate the beauty and vista of the Bonded Warehouse, while incorporating a range of energy saving technologies and strategies.

“We have also proposed a four-storey apartment building containing 49 apartments to reinstate the lost streetscape of the Stafford Street frontage. The highest EPC rating of A is being targeted for the new homes and commercial space to keep energy consumption and carbon emissions to a minimum.”

Three-storey townhouses at Friar Gate Goods Yard

The site sits just outside the Friar Gate Conservation Area, which features notable Georgian townhouses with high-quality brickwork and fine architectural detailing. The Friar Gate Goods Yard was intended as the main goods depot for the Great Northern Railway line, to handle coal, livestock, timber, and metals.

Designed in 1870, and entering operation in 1878, the Bonded Warehouse building contained extensive warehouse space and offices. It was used as a store for the American Army in WWII to house ammunition and other supplies.

The Engine House was also built for the Railway by Kirk & Randall of Sleaford. It is Italianate in style and built from Welsh slate roofs. The Engine House supplied power to the hydraulic lifts and capstans at the Bonded Warehouse.

The site first became derelict in 1967, and over time became overgrown and fell into a poor state of repair. An arson attack took place at the Goods Yard in 2020, which exposed the whole inner iron structure of the two historic buildings.

Townhouses at Friar Gate Goods Yard

Grant funding to support rural businesses in North West Leicestershire

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Rural businesses in North West Leicestershire are set to benefit from nearly £500,000 in grant funding to support the growth of the rural economy. The North West Leicestershire Rural Business Grant programme, funded by the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is being run by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC). The council has received a total of £469,090 for the programme, which will be split across the next two years. The grants will help small and medium-sized businesses in rural locations to fund projects that support business growth, tourism and visitor economy development, invest in carbon reducing technology or farm diversification. £117,272 is available in 2023, with businesses able to apply for a grant of between £1,000 and £25,000. Recipients will have to provide at least 50 percent match-funding alongside the grant. The fund is now open for applications and will close on 30 November at 5pm. Applications will be considered on a first-come-first-serve basis. SME’s employing under 250 staff can use the funding to support capital projects, such as:
  • buying new equipment to modernise
  • farm tourism facilities such as accommodation, wedding venues and leisure facilities
  • investing in energy efficiency or achieving zero carbon
  • investing in premises, new technology and innovation
An estimated 3,120 businesses in the district could be eligible for the fund. NWLDC has used guidance and eligibility criteria from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). DEFRA has defined areas of the district as rural; this definition excludes businesses in parts of Bardon, Coalville, Hugglescote, Thringstone and Whitwick. Councillor Tony Gillard, NWLDC Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration, said: “As a predominantly rural district I am delighted that we have received government funding to help us support our rural businesses. “The rural economy is a thriving part of the district, and one we want to continue to grow. I would encourage any rural business looking to expand, innovate or diversify to apply for the fund.”

Nomination deadline nears for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 – enter exceptional developments and businesses now!

Shine a light on exceptional businesses and developments, and reward the teams behind them, by submitting a nomination for East Midlands Business Link’s esteemed Bricks Awards before entries close on Thursday 31 August. The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 will celebrate the region’s property and construction industry, its people, and outstanding projects. Award categories include: most active estate agent, commercial development of the year, responsible business of the year, residential development of the year, developer of the year, deal of the year, architects of the year, excellence in design, sustainable development of the year, contractor of the year, and overall winner. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 28 September, at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening that will also provide plenty of opportunities to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region. After winning a trio of awards at last year’s event, Jon Marston, Managing Director of Building East Midlands, Galliford Try Construction, said: “We are immensely proud of the work that has taken place at Broad Marsh Car Park, and the recognition it has received at the East Midlands Bricks Awards is just reward for the efforts of the team. I congratulate all those involved for their achievement in winning these three awards.”  Entries for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 are open until Thursday 31 August. To nominate your (or another) business/development, please click on a category link below or visit this page:

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 28 September 2023 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place Marketing at Leicester City Council, our keynote speaker. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:                                                             To be held at:

Medical training and equipment provider makes Chesterfield move

A business which provides equipment and training to NHS Trusts, universities and colleges has opened a new facility in Chesterfield. Sim & Skills will be based at the Peak Business Park on Foxwood Road in Sheepbridge, occupying the building which used to house local radio station, Peak FM. Listeners to the old radio station will be happy to hear the company will be giving new life to the studio, using the space to showcase its latest products with webinars and online demos. The company was founded during lockdown back in 2020, and since then has become one of the fastest-growing distributors of Healthcare simulation and clinical skills trainers in the country. The business is now a team of seven people, all of whom boast a wide range of healthcare simulation experience. It says the town’s central location and transport links make it an ideal place to grow. The new warehouse, office and training space have been created with the help of local businesses and suppliers. Sim & Skills aims to provide the training equipment that doctors, nurses and health professionals need. Having the resource to practice with specialised equipment in a simulated hospital environment enhances skills and improves patient safety. The company has customers based across the country and beyond, and has already supported many local training providers, including Chesterfield College. Managing Director Mark Cook said: “We’ve been searching for the ideal property for some time. When we saw Radio House in Chesterfield, we knew it was the one for us. The studio space is unusual but great for what we need. The building is a good size and will support us as we continue to grow.” One visible change the company has made to the building is the installation of a defibrillator. As a medical training equipment provider, Sim & Skills believes it’s important to support the saving of lives. A spokesperson for the business said: “We hope the defib is never needed, but if any of our Peak Business Park neighbours ever find themselves in an emergency situation, the defibrillator is there to be used and could save a life.” Sim & Skills also has plans to support the next generation of professionals as the business grows. Operations director Chris Dinsdale said: “As we expand our warehouse and customer service team in Chesterfield, we’re really keen to help local young apprentices who have an interest in business and logistics.”

New occupier secured at Hinckley retail development

Harris Lamb has secured food on-the-go favourite Greggs as the occupier of a new retail unit in Hinckley.

The 1,200 sq ft premises are part of a newly developed two-unit site constructed by developers HDD and subsequently purchased by Heart of England Co-Operative Society.

Further to the Fieldfare Road development being completed earlier this year, Heart of England Co-Operative opened a 4,300 sq ft convenience store at the site, and tasked Harris Lamb’s Retail team with securing a tenant for the neighbouring unit.

David Walton, head of retail, said: “This is a prominent roadside unit with an estimated 25,000 vehicles passing its A47 location every day, which attracted significant interest from potential occupiers.

“Around 850 new homes are being built to the rear of the site, which was a key factor in us identifying it as a suitable location for Heart of England Co-Operative Society in its drive for additional convenience store locations.

“Greggs is a great fit for this location and we are delighted to have completed a new lease with them. Both occupiers complement one another with well-established, quality convenience retail offerings and will benefit from high levels of passing trade.”

Simon Smith of Wright Silverwood advised Greggs on the acquisition. The unit is now fitted out and Greggs has opened the shop to the public.

Major global award recognition for Noble Events

Noble Events, the Leicestershire-based multi-award-winning bespoke events agency, has won Best Event at the prestigious Global Agency Awards. Sarah Cox, Managing Director at Noble Events, commented on the news saying: “We were beyond thrilled to see that our work with Bentley Motors creating and managing their Extraordinary Journey UK 2022 series of events was recognised at the Global Agency Awards in the category of Best Event. “This once-in-a-lifetime road trip took guests on a breathtakingly scenic route from the home of Bentley Motors in Crewe to The Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland. Feedback from guests was glowing and the programme is now being repeated for 2023.” Guest feedback included, “Kudos to the events team – it was a mind-blowing experience,” “The programme was beyond expectations. Loved everything about it – a trip of a lifetime,” and “Loved the warmth and attention to detail from the team. Made to feel very welcome.” Caren Jochner, Global Head of Brand Experience at Bentley Motors, said: “We want to share with our audiences an extraordinary journey of discovery offering access to usually private and exclusive experiences that only Bentley can provide. “We have worked closely with globally like-minded partners that share our passion for excellence whether it be in the field of cuisine, design, architecture, or wellness – all with sustainability at heart. “This, coupled with our carefully curated driving experiences provides something truly unique – an Extraordinary Journey and once in a lifetime experience that offers the opportunity to connect guests with like-minded souls – an experience money alone can’t buy.” Penny Noble, Founder and CEO of Noble Events, said: “Our relationship with Bentley goes back over many, many years and I was delighted that this event was recognised by the Global Agency Awards. “The hard work the whole team put in over many months to make this the success it was – from both Bentley Motors and Noble Events – was incredible and I’m thrilled they received this incredible recognition. Well done team!” Added Sarah: “We know from firsthand experience just how much work goes into creating and managing an event like this so we’d very much like to congratulate all the finalists in these awards and particularly those in our category. They gave us a close run for our money and we hope to see them all again next year when we defend our crown!” Noble Events is the bespoke events agency that brings people together at unforgettable events by becoming an extension of a client’s team, enabling them to focus on their guests, meet their business objectives and shine in front of colleagues and customers. In short Noble Events connect people. Services include media launches, customer events, incentive travel, conferences, global retailer training, product launches and employee engagement. With clients from across the automotive, luxury and financial services sectors, and with a particular strength in understanding and looking after Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), VIPs, royalty and heads of state, Noble Events are privileged to work with some truly amazing brands. Established in 2008 and headquartered in the UK, Noble Events has also maintained a branch office in Dubai since 2015.

New director for Turnaround Management Association UK

Charles Loake, associate director at Nottingham-headquartered auction house John Pye & Sons Ltd, has been appointed as a director of the Turnaround Management Association UK (TMA).

Following in the footsteps of John Pye colleagues, including Managing Director Adam Pye, Charles is taking over the role from John Pye’s joint head of Property and Business, Trevor Palethorpe as he prepares to step down from the board, following a two-year tenure.

TMA is a global organisation dedicated to business turnaround, recovery and renewal. With around 10,000 members across 20 countries, it combines global networking with sharing the latest news on business recovery, corporate turnaround and restructuring.

Charles has over 20 years’ experience with John Pye & Sons, and has provided valuation and sales advice on some of the UK’s most high-profile insolvencies, including Made.com and Phones4u Limited. He is also a Fellow of NAVA Propertymark (National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers) and a member of NAEA Propertymark, the UK’s leading membership body for property agents.

Charles has a long-term association with TMA and its board and is a regular host of the Annual UK Conference.

Paul Davies, president of TMA UK, said: “We are delighted that Charles is joining the TMA UK Board of Directors. Both John Pye & Sons and Charles have been great supporters of TMA UK and we look forward to working with Charles to continue our excellent relationship.”

Speaking of his appointment, Charles said: “I have always enjoyed being a part of TMA. As a director of a nationwide firm, it’s a great way to connect and stay informed on how our market is performing in all regions of the UK, as well as maintaining and developing new relationships.

“Following in Adam’s and Trevor’s footsteps, joining the board was a natural progression, as we can continue to offer John Pye’s support with hosting future events and grow the TMA membership further.”

Northamptonshire industrial unit sold for £3.2m

An industrial unit in Northamptonshire has been sold for £3.2 million. Warwickshire-based The Wigley Group has sold Unit 1-7 Crick Industrial Estate, Eldon Way, to a London-based real estate investment firm. The Wigley Group, which owns and manages business and commercial property across the Midlands, initially purchased the site with vacant possession in 2017 for £1.8m and has carried out a series of improvement works at the premises since. Most recently, it has equipped the site with a new kitchenette, new offices, refurbished toilets, and carried out extensive maintenance works for logistics specialist Nu Vision Logistics, who have just moved in on a 10-year lease to facilitate their long-term business plan. Set within a three-acre site, the 42,000 sq ft unit is located in the heart of the UK’s distribution network adjacent to J18 of the M1 at Crick, providing easy access to Northampton, Rugby and the wider West Midlands. James Davies, Chief Executive Officer at The Wigley Group, said: “During the six years this unit has been part of our portfolio, we have carried out a series of improvement works, driven rental value, and secured a new tenant who sees their long-term future of the business at Crick Industrial Estate. “With our property portfolio evolving and a series of construction and redevelopment projects due to begin shortly, it’s an exciting time for all of us at The Wigley Group and we are delighted to complete this latest deal, which is a reflection of our positive management of the site.” The Wigley Group was represented by Nick Howe of Edgerley Simpson Howe LLP, while the Purchaser was represented by Ben Wisher of CBRE. James Polo-Richards of J G Poole & Co LLP supported The Wigley Group on the legals.

Atlas to create 100 jobs at new site

Specialist manufacturing company Atlas Composite Technologies is set to create more than 100 jobs at a new facility on the back of a seven-figure investment. Atlas is expanding with a new 30,000 sq ft building at Pride Park in Derby, opposite Derby County FC’s stadium. The site is due to be fully operational by September and will enable Atlas to ramp up production to meet growing demand for its composites. The facility will initially generate 30 jobs, rising to more than 100 over the next three years. Atlas manufactures complex composites for use in a range of sectors, including aerospace, defence, medical, elite motorsport and niche automotive, such as supercars and hypercars. It currently operates from three sites in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Its growth strategy is being supported by WeDo Business Services group, which made a seven-figure investment last year. Ben Swain, head of commercial at Atlas, said: “The new facility takes our total footprint in Derbyshire to more than 90,000 sq ft. It marks a significant milestone for our long-term growth strategy while also reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to our clients, and helping to drive economic growth in the region. “It will enable us to scale up production to meet growing demand for our composite solutions, representing a major expansion of our manufacturing capacity. The new facility will generate 30 jobs initially, and we expect this to grow to more than 100 over the next three years. “It will also enable our Ilkeston headquarters to become a research and development centre, as well as increasing manufacturing there. “Located close to other renowned manufacturing companies such as Rolls-Royce, the new facility positions Atlas at the heart of a thriving industrial hub. “With this strategic move, we aim to leverage the synergies and collaborative opportunities that arise from coexisting with industry leaders, further enhancing our position as a trusted and innovative provider in the composite manufacturing sector.” He added: “This expansion is testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented staff, whose expertise and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in our success. “We are proud to invest in their skills and provide them with an even greater platform to showcase their abilities, while providing new highly-skilled jobs in the advanced manufacturing sector. “The unwavering support and belief in the company’s vision shown by WeDo and Derby City Council have been pivotal in facilitating this expansion.” Atlas, which currently employs 105 staff, expects to grow turnover to more than £10m in 2024 as a result of its expansion. It is seeing strong growth in sectors such as niche automotive, aerospace and defence. The company is recruiting for a range of roles at the new Derby site, including shop-floor manufacturing operatives and positions in its engineering, quality, stores and training teams. WeDo Group Chief Executive Mark Lindsay said: “We are delighted to support Atlas with its latest expansion plans. Atlas has an excellent track record of supplying composite solutions of the highest quality to clients across a range of sectors, and it’s exciting to see the business flourishing. “As our relationship with Atlas strengthens, we are looking to provide ongoing financial support to help kit out the new site and add further value through our outsourced HR support services, to support the recruitment drive and changing requirements of the management team.”