An application to extend a housing scheme at Cork Lane, Glen Parva, has been approved by Blaby District Council’s planning committee.
Developers Vistry are already working on the site after permission for a 165-home scheme was granted on appeal in January 2023 by a government planning inspector.
This latest proposal for Phase II, featuring 26 homes, was recommended for approval due to this being an existing development. It will be at the south-western corner of the site continuing the line of planned houses.
Conditions have been imposed to ensure disturbance is limited for existing residents living nearby. Lessons learned from the initial works will be taken on board by the developer when Phase II begins.
Ground preparation works, including piling, on the first phase have caused concerns among some neighbours.
The piling is necessary to provide stable foundations as the area is a former landfill site.
Blaby District Council continues to act on these concerns and officers are actively monitoring the site to ensure all actions are within specified national guidelines.
At a recent meeting between Vistry, Council officers and local Councillors, Vistry agreed to look at a series of extra mitigation measures for the current works.
They also agreed to provide further information on dust sampling and piling work and liaise more closely with local Councillors and residents to keep everyone informed.
A more detailed plan of action is expected from them within the next few days. The regional managing director from Vistry has also sent a letter to local residents recognising the disruption, thanking them for their patience and providing contact details for residents to raise issues.
Councillor Lee Breckon, Chairman of the planning committee, said: “While we recognise there has been concern from local residents about the development at Cork Lane, the main housing scheme is progressing. As such we have approved the extension to the scheme. We will continue to work with Vistry to minimise disruption and act in the best interests of residents.”
To mark World Homeless Day on 10 October, the charity working to help rough sleepers off the streets of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire is launching an urgent appeal to save its street outreach services as numbers sleeping rough have soared by 35 percent.
The Framework Street Outreach Teams supported 161 people in Nottingham City, 134 people in Nottinghamshire, and 128 in Sheffield in August 2024. This represents an average increase of 35 percent from 2023 compared to a 27 percent increase seen nationally.
The charity faces a funding shortfall of £189,122 which means many people may not get the support they urgently need this winter. Now the charity is launching its Winter SOS appeal ahead of World Homeless Day on 10 October in an attempt to plug the gap and protect their lifesaving services.
Claire Eden, Framework’s Head of Fundraising and Communications, said: “We need more resources, staff and specialist workers to address and meet the needs of the people we find sleeping rough. As recently as this summer, we found a family with young children sleeping on the streets. Our Winter Appeal SOS is a distress call. A call for urgent help and assistance.”
Framework will launch its Winter Appeal at Broadway Cinema on Sunday 6 October with the Nottingham premiere of Someone’s Daughter, Someone’s Son, the powerful documentary by Lorna Tucker exploring the lives of people sleeping rough.
Now a successful filmmaker, Lorna Tucker was once a teenage runaway sleeping rough on the streets of London. For this frank, forceful and inspiring documentary, she returns to her former haunts and speaks to current and former homeless people about why, 25 years later, record numbers of people are still reduced to living on Britain’s streets.
The audience will be welcomed by Framework’s Head of Fundraising and Communications Claire Eden, and a short video piece introducing Framework’s winter fundraising appeal. The screening hosted by Framework will be followed by a Q&A with the director, and a representative of Framework’s outreach team.
Claire Eden added: “It is very important to Framework that we continue to meet the current need but also that we develop the services and respond to emerging and specific needs. Such as the needs of a growing number of women who are homeless but who are ‘hidden’ from services because of their need to stay safe from the perils of visibly sleeping rough. Perils such as sexual and physical abuse and harassment.”
The teams in Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire and Sheffield work 365 days a year, providing life-saving support and advice for hundreds of people who are sleeping rough.
Sam Lanes, Manager of Framework’s Street Outreach Team in Nottingham, said: “The number of people we find sleeping rough each day on our early morning walks on the streets of Nottingham has been increasing for some time and continues to increase significantly.
“We know the trauma and risk faced by people on the streets so it is vital that we can continue to be there to support them and avoid people putting themselves in the life-threatening position of sleeping not only on the streets but hidden away in car parks, cemeteries, quarries, building sites or wherever they can find shelter and relative safety.
“Rough sleeping is the tip of the homelessness iceberg – what happens when people run out of options. We ask the public to use our free 24-hour hotline number 0800 066 5356 to alert us if they come across someone sleeping rough, and for people to contact us if they find themselves on the streets.”
People can support Framework’s Winter Appeal by donating at www.frameworkha.org/SOS
Businesses are being invited to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chesterfield by getting involved with local schools.
This is an opportunity not just to give back to the community but to help cultivate future talent to drive Chesterfield’s economy forward.
Local businesspeople are encouraged to engage with students by attending careers fairs, conducting mock interviews, and participating in employer question-and-answer sessions.
Beyond these events, some schools are also seeking work experiences for students in years 10 and 11, providing them with invaluable insights into the world of work.
The schools reaching out include Brookfield Community School, Outwood Academy Hasland Hall, Outwood Academy Newbold, Parkside School, Springwell Community School, St Mary’s Catholic High School, Whittington Green School and Netherthorpe School.
It is hoped that links with businesses will provide real-world experience and guidance to shape the career paths of young people.
Keith Hirst, Headteacher at Brookfield Community School, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “There is no better way to inspire our young people and give them insights into the world of work than by connecting them with local businesses. Engaging in activities like mock interviews, careers fairs, and Q&A sessions allows our students to understand how businesses operate and what it takes to build a successful career.”
Mr. Hirst added: “We aim to support our local businesses in developing strong workforces. These sessions offer mutual benefits—for our schools, our young people, and Chesterfield’s broader economy.”
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the council’s Skills and Employment Partnership, echoed these sentiments, urging businesses to get involved: “It is vital that we bridge the gap between education and business to ensure our young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in their chosen careers.
“Businesses have a crucial role to play in inspiring future talent, showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in Chesterfield, and preparing local students for their future steps. This is not just a chance to contribute to the community but an opportunity to connect with potential future employees, understand the emerging workforce’s expectations, and ensure that the skills they are nurturing align with industry needs.”
Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments’ £30m proposals for the redevelopment of one of the final plots of vacant land within Derby’s newly revitalised Cathedral Quarter have been approved by the City Council’s Planning Committee.
195 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments will be delivered at the Full Street site, within a u-shaped nine-storey red brick building.
The 0.2Ha site is bounded by Full Street to the west and the River Derwent to the east. Measuring approximately 50m wide by 50m long, the site was previously occupied by a police station, which was constructed in the 1960s and demolished in 2013.
Designed by Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects, the apartment scheme has been carefully considered to respond to the historic riverside setting.
Phase One of Wilson Bowden’s Full Street development was completed in 2016. It includes the refurbishment of the Riverside Chambers office complex, delivery of 46 new apartments at Number One Cathedral Green, and a Premier Inn hotel.
Prior to it being replanned and brought forward by Birmingham-based Wavensmere Homes, this remaining parcel of land had been earmarked for a speculative office development of up to 100,000 sq ft.
James Dickens, Managing Director of Wavensmere Homes, said: “This challenging brownfield site, which has lain vacant for over a decade, occupies one of the best locations within Derby city centre and benefits from rich views of the Cathedral Quarter and the River Derwent.
“The City Council’s planning committee took on board how our plans reflect stakeholder feedback and are within the confines of the extant office planning permission. Receiving the go-ahead will help Derby to meet the high demand for new homes – and improve its Five Year Housing Land Supply.
“As with nearby Nightingale Quarter and Friar Gate Goods Yard, we will construct an exemplary development, reflective of the prime gateway location. By appropriately densifying this derelict brownfield site, we will create highly energy-efficient homes for well over 200 people, who will then spend their time and circa £5m of disposable income per year locally.
“Prior to that, our construction programme will generate around 150 jobs. We look forward to continuing to work with Derby City Council to prepare for a start on site as soon as are able to.”
The new apartment scheme will benefit from a waterside location, with views of the 16th Century Derby Cathedral and its 212ft tower. Also lying adjacent to the site is the Museum of Making at the restored Derby Silk Mill, which re-opened to the public in 2021.
Wavensmere’s plans for Full Street have been sensitively designed to complete the jigsaw of this prime Derby city centre site by providing dual aspect landscaped public realm over Cathedral Green, whilst enhancing activity at street level.
In addition to the apartments, 2,000 sq ft of mixed-use space will be accommodated at ground floor level to overlook Cathedral Green and Full Street, providing an active frontage. A range of uses are earmarked for this space, including a new café and high-quality residential facilities such as a gymnasium, co-working zone, and concierge point.
The top/ninth floor is set-back by 1.5m to create full roof terraces for nine duplex homes. All plots overlooking Cathedral Green and the River Derwent will benefit from fully glazed cantilevered balconies. The scheme will also feature two communal staircases, courtyard car parking provision and secure bicycle spaces.
The latest green energy features will be incorporated into the design for the new homes, to deliver a high EPC rating, whilst exceeding the new Part L building regulations. The highly sustainable new development will utilise low carbon materials, modern methods of construction, and renewable energy generation via roof mounted solar PV panels.
Matthew Branton, Managing Director of Franklin Ellis Architects, said: “Throughout the design process, our team has been conscious of the need for this unique development to carefully close the wider urban block and positively front Full Street, Cathedral Green and the waterside, improving the safety, attractiveness, and animation of the adjacent public areas.
“Our context led approach to the layered facade design incorporates quality detailing and a refined material palette, whilst paying homage to the surrounding architecture and heritage assets – ensuring the Cathedral is always the star of the show. We are thrilled to have worked with Wavensmere Homes to deliver this terrific result for the Cathedral Quarter and people of Derby.”
Property and construction professionals from across the region gathered last night (Thursday 3rd October) at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground for Business Link Magazine’s annual East Midlands Bricks Awards.
Recognising and celebrating those behind the changing landscape of our region, rewarding the very best companies, teams and individuals, the event offered the perfect opportunity to showcase the outstanding work carried out across the East Midlands over the past year and network with many of the region’s industry leaders over nibbles and complementary drinks.
Attendees also heard from Paul Southby – chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire – who kicked off the event with the keynote speech.
The finalists and winners in each category are revealed below:Nick Pettit, Tim Hubner, Chris Sharman
Commercial Development of the Year – sponsored by Global HSE Group
Winner
G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark
Runners up
Brackley Property Developments – The Dock Extension, Leicester
Pick Everard – Nottingham Central Library
Darren Chapman and Ed Tripp
Contractor of the Year – sponsored by EMEC Ecology
Winner
Clegg Construction
Runners up
Cawarden
Winvic
Robert Maxey and Simon Prescott
Deal of the Year – sponsored by Tutum Consulting
Winner
heb Surveyors – The Oaks, Mansfield
Runners up
FI Real Estate Management – The Quad, Chesterfield
Freeths – Former Boots factory site, Beeston
Mark Macmanard, Ryan Pritchard, Conor Garvey
Developer of the Year – sponsored by IMA Architects
Winner
Vistry Group East Midlands
Runners up
Indurent
Wavensmere Homes
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Richard Evans, William Crooks
Excellence in Design – sponsored by Cawarden
Winner
Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn
Runners up
G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark
Design Haus – Musters Road
Lisa Osborne-Biesty and Alex Edmeades
Most Active Agent – sponsored by Roy Geddes Bricks
Winner
Rigby & Co
Runners up
FHP Property Consultants
Salloway Property Consultants
Steve Fisher and Amy Biddell
Architects of the Year – sponsored by Mather Jamie
Winner
Matthew Montague Architects
Runners up
IMA Architects
Design Haus Architecture
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Richard Evans, Iain Hibbert
Residential Development of the Year – sponsored by Devello
Winner
Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn
Runners up
Phoenix Brickwork UK LTD – IQ Nelson Court
Chevin Homes – Chevin Close
Richard Varney and Greg Simpson
Responsible Business – sponsored by Press for Attention PR
Winner
Stepnell Ltd
Runners up
Cawarden
Cora
Clare Swaine, Ian Taylor, John McKay
Sustainable Development of the Year – sponsored by Viridis Building Services Ltd
Winner
Henry Brothers Construction Ltd – Alfreton Park School
Runners up
CPMG – Sir Peter Rubin Centre for Veterinary Education
Keepmoat – Gedling Green
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Andy Sawyer, Richard Evans
Overall Winner –sponsored by Blueprint Interiors
Distinctive Developments
See the event in the images below, taken by Richard Picksley.
1 of 46
Lisa Osborne-Biesty and Alex Edmeades
Mark Macmanard, Ryan Pritchard, and Conor Garvey
Richard Varney and Greg Simpson
Nick Pettit, Tim Hubner, Chris Sharman
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Andy Sawyer, Richard Evans
Robert Maxey and Simon Prescott
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Richard Evans, Iain Hibbert
Steve Fisher and Amy Biddell
Clare Swaine, Ian Taylor, John McKay
Darren Chapman and Ed Tripp
Jo Plant, Jonathan Plant, Richard Evans, William Crooks
Winners and sponsors at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Thanks to all our sponsors for supporting the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024. Business Link Magazine looks forward to returning next year for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025!
The doors to Dock 3–5 in Space City have officially opened, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Leicester City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, on October 2.
The premium managed workspace stakes its ground in the Space City Enterprise Zone and is proud to foster Leicester’s low-carbon hub for high-tech, knowledge-based industries and innovative businesses.
The hub will support enterprises and enable job creation, promoting the development of a thriving community of cutting-edge companies in Leicester. Inaugural tenants include Kazzoo IT Solutions, Somerbys IT, IN Focus ITS, Employee Zero, World Products, Translatr, Impact Venture, and The VoIP Shop.
Applications are open to other companies associated with the downstream space sector, high tech, sustainability and innovation, or supporting companies.
City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby delivered a speech, welcoming new tenants and congratulating the project team. He commended the hub’s potential to drive economic growth and innovation in the region.
Dock 3 – 5 has been designed sympathetically and with sustainability at their foundation. The buildings are net carbon zero, no oil and gas is used on site, and all heating is powered by electricity only. A sustainable drainage system and ecological considerations such as bird boxes, retention of established trees, and reduced external lighting to minimise disruption to local wildlife like bats, were key considerations in the design.
The design also maximises flexibility of accommodation with the office buildings, which speaks to its forward-thinking ethos. They are designed to operate independently whilst still ensuring that occupiers feel integrated into the overall building.
Offices in Dock 3 and Dock 4 can be combined, providing scalability for businesses to expand as they grow and need more space. When these buildings are fully occupied there will be over 120 businesses with more than 600 employees working in these five Dock buildings.
The Dock 3-5 expansion follows a cohesive campus-style design, visually in line with the adjacent Dock 1 and Dock 2 units. The project reflects a consistent approach to sustainability, aligning with Leicester City Council’s commitment to achieving net carbon zero goals.
The development is part of the Council’s efforts to regenerate the area. It attracted significant investment from the Levelling Up Fund to deliver Dock 3, 4 and 5. Leicester-based firm Brackley Property Developments served as the development partner, with construction carried out by county-based Wilten Construction Ltd.
Sir Peter Soulsby, Leicester City Mayor, said: “The Dock expansion marks an exciting milestone in Leicester’s sustainable economic development. We’re not just supporting local businesses and job creation; we’re also paving the way for long-term regeneration in Leicester.
“This project is a testament to the council’s proactivity in fostering innovation, sustainability, and growth within – and most importantly for – our community. I’m excited to see the impact it will have on the region.”
Crystal Carter, workspace development manager at Dock, adds: “After months of hard work, we’re so pleased to see this ribbon finally cut and the doors officially open. Dock 3–5 represents the future of managed workspaces, where innovative businesses can grow while contributing to Leicester’s drive toward net zero and a more sustainable future.
“Both economically and environmentally. We’re excited to welcome a new set of companies to this vibrant community, which is a testament to the success of what we’ve built with Dock 1-2. Please speak to us if you want to join the community.”
Profits at Bardon Hill-based Aggregate Industries could rise by £8m over three years thanks to a groundbreaking safety project between the company and Leeds Beckett University.
AIUK estimates that as a direct result of the project the company the increased profits will come from savings through reduced injuries, increased productivity due to work system redesign, reduced injury-related employee absence, and an increase in the number of bids won for new work.
The Safety Voice project was a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership, part-funded by the Government through Innovate UK with the objective of reducing transport-related risk across AIUK’s sites. The team – including Leeds Beckett psychology experts and a full-time KTP Associate – created a dynamic toolkit to reduce future incidents and fatalities. This is now being rolled out across the organisation worldwide and creating a safer and healthier place for employees.
The project was led by Dr Jim Morgan, Principal Lecturer and Leader of the Psychology Applied to Safety and Health (PASH) research group at Leeds Beckett. He said: “We have designed a toolkit, using academic theory and models, which proactively identifies safe and unsafe behaviours within the business. This includes a step-by-step process for developing work system redesign – the way work is planned and conducted – and behaviour change programmes. This means AIUK can fully understand the underlying factors that influence their workplace safety and are putting in place strategies to prevent fatalities and reduce future incidents.”
The KTP has now been graded ‘Outstanding’ by independent assessors at Innovate UK – this is the highest possible rating awarded to projects.
A key element of the KTP’s success was Laura Jackson – the full-time Associate recruited to manage the project as a member of the AIUK team, with the support of the Leeds Beckett academic experts. She led four research studies, including questionnaires and interviews involving more than 280 drivers, and a highly innovative eye tracking and sleep study.
The Safety Voice Toolkit supports AIUK’s long-term aim to be the safest company in the industry, and to achieve ‘zero harm’ in its workplaces. It will be shared across the UK construction materials industry to inform best practice.
Laura Jackson has secured a newly-created role at AIUK as Behavioural Safety Business Partner – leading AIUK in their journey to improve behavioural safety across the whole organisation. She is also continuing to study for her Masters by Research (MRes) degree at Leeds Beckett University.
She said: “To achieve AIUK’s ambitions, they needed the psychological expertise relating to safety and health in the workplace at Leeds Beckett. The targeted and tailored safety behaviour change interventions that we have developed are not something that could be achieved by off-the-shelf consultancy services.
“The KTP has had a significant impact on safety culture at AIUK. I worked hard to gain trust with colleagues, and tactfully engaged stakeholders, to successfully instil core values, foster collaboration, and promote accountability. This has been a genuine ‘bottom up’ approach to zero harm strategy – and is the first step in a long-term shift in how we manage and prioritise safety in the workplace. I am now enhancing our strategic safety plan for 2024 onwards, which includes a structured approach to identifying, addressing and preventing unsafe behaviours and conditions.”
Jo Griffiths, Head of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Leeds Beckett University, added: “To have achieved an Outstanding grading for the project is testament to the success of this collaboration between Laura, our academic team, and AIUK. We are thrilled with the impact this is creating across the international Holcim Group – and look forward to continuing to make lasting impact for the extensive range of businesses, public sector and third sector organisations we work with through our KTP programme.”
Pub company Punch Pubs & Co has added to its growing portfolio by acquiring the Grey Horses Inn in Carlton-in-Lindrick, Worksop.
The village pub is situated on The Cross, just off the High Road and will sit within Punch’s leased and tenanted estate, run by father and son duo Ken and Jack Jarvis.
As multiple operators, Ken and Jack are experienced in the hospitality industry and eager to further embed the Grey Horses into the community thanks to the success of its former Publicans Chris and Sally.
Speaking about the acquisition, Punch Pubs & Co Head of Estate Development and Acquisitions Andrew Cannons, said: “We are delighted to welcome experienced operators Ken and Jack to the Grey Horses, and are looking forward to working alongside themselves and the team as they embark on their new venture.
“This is an excellent pub that perfectly aligns with our leased and tenanted estate, and I’m sure that with Punch’s industry-leading investment and support, the Grey Horses will continue to flourish for many years to come.”
The community-focused pub benefits from two separate trading areas, a timber bar servery and a cosy feature fireplace. It also features a function room, with its own bar and dancefloor area in addition to an enclosed beer garden with picnic bench seating.
Punch Pubs Operations Manager David Hill added: “Chris and Sally have run a fantastic pub for many years, so it was important for us to ensure we could continue their legacy. Ken and Jack are excellent operators and great people who I’ve no doubt will work brilliantly alongside the team to keep the Grey Horses thriving in the community.”
Leicestershire’s Hike SEO, a digital marketing platform which guides small businesses with little to no knowledge of SEO to the top of search engine rankings, has secured a £250,000 intellectual property-backed loan from NatWest to support its growth plans.
The loan marks a significant milestone for the firm, which has acquired more than 10,000 users across the world since launching in 2017. With the funding Hike is set to launch new AI-powered features over the next year, as it supports more small business owners to take charge of their SEO and improve their visibility on search engines.
Hike now plans to expand its team by up to 30%.
Andrew Allen, Hike SEO’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re thrilled that Hike has secured an IP-backed loan from NatWest, which is a huge vote of confidence in the value of the software we have built. This funding will support the development of new AI-driven functionality, providing a simpler and better experience for small businesses handling their own SEO.
“Importantly, this loan allows us to achieve this growth without further diluting equity for existing shareholders. The support of NatWest and our Relationship Manager Chris has been fantastic throughout the process.”
Chris Garnett, NatWest’s Senior Relationship Manager, said: “Since first meeting Andrew at Hike in May, I really bought into what the business was trying to achieve, helping SMEs take control of their own SEO. The IP loan funding was a great way for them to take the next step in their journey by leveraging their IP rather than diluting their ownership.”
Neil Bellamy, Head of Technology, Media and Telecoms at NatWest, added: “Hike is exactly the sort of high growth, disruptive company that NatWest’s IP-backed loan is intended to benefit. Like so many of today’s growth companies, Hike needed help validating and unlocking the value locked up in its intellectual property and other intangibles.
“This solution is genuinely for the mass market, making lending affordable for fast growing, IP rich businesses to borrow as little as £250,000. Together with our partners Inngot, we’re disrupting the lending market for SMEs in the same way that Hike is disrupting SEO!”
Martin Brassell, CEO of Inngot, said: “Today, IP drives company growth and profitability. Few high growth companies have the kind of tangible assets traditional banks are still hoping to find.
“With NatWest and Inngot’s approach, these business-critical intangible assets can be properly taken into account, even at modest levels of lending. This points to the role IP can now play in supporting growth for scale-ups on their journey to maturity.”
Thirty golfers from RS in Corby, a global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, have raised more than £850 at a charity golf day in aid of Corby Foodbank, which distributes three-day emergency, non-perishable food parcels to local people in food crisis.
Held at The Leicestershire Golf Club, the event was organised by RS’ employees, Sam Marchant and Daniel Waller.
“It was a fantastic day for such a great cause,” said Sam, RS PRO category manager at RS. “This was our second annual charity golf day and we managed to smash our fundraising target of £850.
“We have a lot of keen golfers in the business, so once a year it’s important for us to get together, have a laugh and play some below average golf!
“The need to use a foodbank can happen to anyone and, unfortunately, the use of foodbanks is on the rise. However we hope that with regular donations through fundraising and food parcel donations, we can help provide adequate support to this amazing cause.”
RS has established a great relationship with Corby Foodbank, with a number of employees throughout the year committed to helping out with volunteering – whether this is by assisting with food parcel distribution or helping with the movement of much-needed stock.
Alongside the charity golf day, the company also organised a collection of much-needed items for food parcels, arranging delivery of these to St Peter & St Andrew’s Church on Beanfield Avenue, where the foodbank is based.
The foodbank’s manager, Martin Langford, who also joined the golfers on the day to give a thought-provoking talk of the who, what and how the foodbank operates, highlights that fundraising and donations made by companies such as RS is pivotal to the work they do: “The contributions we receive from RS continue to make a real difference to the people of Corby who are in need.
“Their recent donation of items to the foodbank contained not only non-perishable foods, but also toiletries and pet foods which allows us to provide a well-rounded parcel for both individuals and families alike.”
Sales are down at Topps Tiles, the Leicester-based tile specialist, according to a new trading update for the 52-week period ended 28 September 2024.
Group sales for the year, excluding revenues from the assets acquired from the administrators of CTD, were approximately £248 million, a decline of 5.7% from the Group record high of £263 million reported in the previous year and broadly in line with the year ending September 2022.
Group sales in the fourth quarter were 4.4% lower, a slight improvement on the trends seen across the rest of the year, largely reflecting the weaker comparatives from the end of FY23.
Topps Tiles noted that the trading environment remained “very challenging across the whole year with continued weak demand in the domestic Repair, Maintenance and Improvement (RMI) sector, especially for bigger ticket projects.” Topps believes that the market has declined by 10-15% year-on year.
In August 2024, the business announced the acquisition of the CTD Tiles brand, certain assets, direct selling teams and 30 stores for £9 million. Following receipt of an initial information request from the Competition and Markets Authority, Topps has now been informed by the CMA that it intends to review the acquisition under UK merger control.
Rob Parker, Topps Group CEO, said: “We remain focused on the delivery of our new Mission 365 goal. In a year that has proved challenging in many ways, I am pleased by how well our teams have responded to the weaker market, demonstrating both our resilience and our ability to continue to outperform.
“I am also satisfied that despite these challenges we have been able to continue to deliver against our strategy and take opportunities as they have arisen, supported by our strong balance sheet.
“Looking ahead, macro-economic indicators point to a stronger market in 2025. While the timing and trajectory of the recovery remains hard to predict, we are confident that our clearly articulated and proven strategy will enable the further development of the Group in all market conditions.”
Work to build a new school in Mansfield for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is progressing well.
To mark the first stages of this work, Nottinghamshire County Councillors and partners gathered at the site of the former Ravensdale School site in the town. It will have capacity for up to 160 pupils across the seven to 19 years age range.
It is being designed, project and cost managed by Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, with construction being undertaken by Morgan Sindall. The school is expected to open in 2025.
Nottinghamshire County Council says the purpose-built facility will provide a specialist learning environment for children with social, emotional, and mental health needs.
Councillor Sam Smith, Cabinet Member for Education and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), explains why the council is investing £20 million into this project.
He said: “As a council, we are committed to meeting the needs of children and young people with SEND, and their families, and to providing much-needed special school places in Nottinghamshire. This is why we are investing in this new SEND school, so it’s great to see work progressing.
“It’s vital that every child in Nottinghamshire, no matter what their background, gets the best possible education, in the best possible setting.”
The project is part of a wider programme being delivered by the county council to create up to 490 additional SEND school places by 2026 to address the growing demand for more specialist school places across the county.
One of the partners who gathered at the site was David Cotton, chief executive officer for Diverse Academies Trust. He said: “It has been a privilege to be joined by colleagues and partners as we celebrate the first steps in creating an innovative new school building. This development reflects a significant investment in our region to support the needs of many families who require access to specialist educational facilities for their children.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Department for Education and Nottinghamshire County Council on this project, and particularly extend our thanks to Arc Partnership and Morgan Sindall Group for their dedication in helping bring this incredible vision to life.”
Commenting on the project’s importance, Sara Williams, Head of Pre-Construction at Arc Partnership, said: “We are supporting Nottinghamshire County Council in meeting its target of 490 new SEND school places by 2026 – an incentive that will make a real difference to many young people and their families across the county for years to come.
“Working in close partnership with the council and Morgan Sindall, the school is designed, cost and project managed by Arc Partnership, ensuring real value is delivered not only for the council but the local area as well.”
Richard Fielding, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Midlands, describes the environmental technologies being used for this project.
He said: “In the spirit of looking to the future, we’re working with Arc Partnership to promote sustainable construction technologies within local communities. Our team and local supply chain have already been instrumental in reducing the project’s overall embodied carbon by 37 per cent, with more than 700 tonnes of CO2 saved on the project – that’s the equivalent to heating 260 homes annually.”
It is finally the day to attend the eagerly anticipated East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024!
It is an evening for Business Link and professionals alike to recognise, celebrate, and network with the property and construction industry – those behind the changing landscape of our region.
Winners will be announced today (Thursday 3 October) in the Derek Randall Suite at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. The event will start at 4:30pm and conclude at 7:30pm, with complimentary drinks and nibbles served on arrival.
The event will also feature Paul Southby as keynote speaker. Paul is a partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema in Nottingham’s Lace Market, and a longstanding trustee of environmental charity Clean Rivers Trust. He is chair of Nottingham Partners, a group of businesses that supports the work of the local inward investment agency, Invest in Nottingham, and a board member and past chair of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Limited. Paul is also a former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire (2022/23).
Shortlist for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Architects of the Year – sponsored by Mather Jamie
IMA Architects
Design Haus Architecture
Matthew Montague Architects
Commercial Development of the Year – sponsored by Global HSE Group
Brackley Property Developments – The Dock Extension, Leicester
Pick Everard – Nottingham Central Library
G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark
Contractor of the Year – sponsored by EMEC Ecology
Cawarden
Clegg Construction
Winvic
Deal of the Year – sponsored by Tutum Consulting
heb Surveyors – The Oaks, Mansfield
FI Real Estate Management – The Quad, Chesterfield
Freeths – Former Boots factory site, Beeston
Developer of the Year – sponsored by IMA Architects
Vistry Group East Midlands
Indurent
Wavensmere Homes
Excellence in Design – sponsored by Cawarden
G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark
Design Haus – Musters Road
Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn
Most Active Agent – sponsored by Roy Geddes Bricks
Rigby & Co
FHP Property Consultants
Salloway Property Consultants
Residential Development of the Year – sponsored by Devello
Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn
Phoenix Brickwork UK LTD – IQ Nelson Court
Chevin Homes – Chevin Close
Responsible Business – sponsored by Press for Attention PR
Stepnell Ltd
Cawarden
Cora
Sustainable Development of the Year – sponsored by Viridis Building Services Ltd
CPMG – Sir Peter Rubin Centre for Veterinary Education
Henry Brothers Construction Ltd – Alfreton Park School
Keepmoat – Gedling Green
The Overall Winner,sponsored by Blueprint Interiors, will also be announced at the ceremony, who will be awarded a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000.
East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024When: Thursday 3rd October 2024, 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: The Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground
Keynote speaker: Paul Southby, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire
Dress code: Standard business attire
Tickets: Available at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/east-midlands-bricks-awards-2024-tickets-902294566337?aff=oddtdtcreatorThanks to our sponsors:
Maven has led a £2.2 million funding round in Nottingham-based data driven technology company, Connected Data.
Connected Data, founded by former Experian and TDX executive Kirk Fletcher, was established to revolutionise the way debt is managed by organisations across various industries, including utilities, financial services, local government and debt management services.
Connected Data’s cloud-based data services blend the latest business intelligence, analytics and AI with the widest range of predictive data solutions to transform the entire debt management process.
Its services help organisations reduce, resolve and prevent debt with minimal internal resource impact as well as enabling clients to meet evolving consumer protection regulations, paving the way for fairer, more positive outcomes for consumers in debt.
Since its inception in 2020, Connected Data has grown rapidly, with revenues increasing eightfold between 2022 and 2024.
Alexander Sleigh, Investment Director at Maven, said: “Connected Data’s service addresses a critical challenge for utility and financial services companies. With the cost of living crisis driving household debt to new heights, and stricter guidelines like the FCA’s Consumer Duty coming into play, companies are under increasing pressure to refine their debt collection processes.
“Connected Data has already proven its value for clients by reducing the time, cost, and complexity of debt management while increasing confidence in data accuracy and recovery rates. We are excited to work with Kirk and his team to further scale the business and explore new growth opportunities.”
Kirk Fletcher, CEO at Connected Data, said: “Across all sectors, organisations are facing increased pressure on their debt management processes. Our unique approach, our data partnerships and our range of configurable data services has enabled the organisations we work with to truly transform their debt management process to become more effective without the need for significant capital investment or long extended delivery times.
“This investment will enable us to further drive our transformation of the debt management process. We are hugely excited by the impact this will have on our customers, our data partners and, ultimately, consumers in debt.”
The Access Group, a Loughborough-based provider of business management software to mid-market organisations, has entered into an agreement to acquire Tradify, extending its offering in ERP software globally.
Access ERP serves small, growing and medium to large businesses with tailored solutions in a range of industry verticals, including Construction, Supply Chain, Waste Management, Professional Services and Facilities Management.
The introduction of Tradify provides an end-to-end job management platform, built for trades and field-service businesses, enabling small businesses to be more efficient by automating key business processes.
Founded in 2013, Tradify has grown to a base of 20,000 customers from within the trade industry across the UK, New Zealand and Australia.
With offices in the UK and New Zealand, Tradify offers a platform that brings together customer enquiries, service reminders, estimates, quotes, scheduling, staffing, contractor management, job tracking, timesheets, invoices, certification and payments—all in one place.
Claire Carter, managing director of Access ERP, said: “Tradify is a great fit for our business. The proven success and innovation from the Tradify team excite us and show huge potential for the future of this world-class product, in conjunction with the other solutions we provide today. We are delighted to welcome Tradify into our Access ERP eco-system.”
Michael Steckler, Tradify CEO, said: “Entering into an agreement to join The Access Group marks a significant milestone for Tradify. We have been impressed by the Access Group’s focus on customers and commitment to innovation. We are excited to join the team where we can accelerate our ambitions, further enhance our customer experience, and become part of a bigger mission.”
Claire Carter concluded: “This latest acquisition supports our growth strategy and focuses on delivering solutions that meet the needs of our expanding international customer base. We welcome Tradify customers, partners and employees into The Access Group.”
Specialist insurance intermediary PIB has acquired Nottingham-based RS Insurance, adding RS’s expertise in Fleet and Professional Indemnity in particular to its portfolio of specialisms.
Eight people will be moving into PIB from RS, and its Managing Director, Karll Smith, said selling his 45-year-old family business, which he’s owned for two decades, was made easier by what PIB was offering.
He said: “One of the selling points for PIB is that I will get to do full time the best bit of my job, which is to go out and win business and make new relationships with clients. We had multiple offers and PIB’s terms were the best for everybody involved.
“I get to keep running the business the way I run it now and I get to grow it as fast as I can. Because winning a deal and servicing clients is what gives me a great buzz and being part of PIB means I can focus 100% of my time on clients with access to bigger markets.”
PIB was attracted to RS because of its client-centric approach, while Karll and his team will strengthen the Group’s footprint across the Midlands region.
Charlie Upton, PIB Insurance Brokers’ Regional Managing Director for North East and East Midlands, said: “I’m delighted that Karll chose PIB to invest in his business and join our growing success story. As a remarkable leader, he will have the chance to elevate his business to new heights with the investment that comes with an acquisition like this.
“At PIB, we are committed to empowering entrepreneurs to pursue what’s best for their business while benefiting from the strength of our ecosystem. This includes leveraging our scale, fostering group-wide collaboration, and having their back-office processes seamlessly managed.”
A campaign to bring more wildflowers and biodiversity to Lincoln while reducing carbon is launching this month.
Launched by Lincoln-based My Square Metre, Plant it Forward will see local businesses pledging to plant one square metre of wildflowers on behalf of a business of their choice, with that business then doing the same to pass it forward, and so on.
My Square Metre is the first of its kind online carbon offsetting calculator, which identifies often overlooked daily carbon-producing activities, and offsets through wildflower planting.
With an aim for Plant it Forward to reach 2,000 square metres of wildflowers, My Square Metre is hoping that through the interest and support of local businesses, Lincoln will be taking a step closer to a net zero carbon future as well as creating new habitats and boosting biodiversity.
In Britain, 97% of wildflower meadows have been lost since the second world war and 53% of native plants have been lost in the last 20 years due to human impacts. Meadow loss leads to a reduction in pollinators which are essential in food production.
When a square metre of wildflowers is planted through My Square Metre, the land is managed and protected for at least 30 years and the wildflowers will feed 24 bees each year for those 30 years. In addition, using wildflower planting to offset carbon is highly effective as they sequest carbon within the first year of planting, in comparison to tree planting which can take years to sequester.
To launch Plant it Forward, Lincoln business EcomeOne has committed to being the first company to sign up and will be passing the ‘wildflower baton’ on to Eagle Eye Innovations.
Ed Crowther, founder of My Square Metre, said: “The aim of Plant it Forward is to create meaningful change together, in an easily accessible, affordable and fun way. The cost of planting one square metre of wildflowers through My Square Metre is £10 plus vat, and the impact on our environment is considerable.
“Lincoln and Lincolnshire, like all areas of the country, have seen an extreme reduction in its habitats and biodiversity, as well as the increase in carbon production over the last 20 years. The Plant it Forward campaign is to target this through collaboration – bringing businesses together to make a difference.
“The team and I hope this is the start of a long-standing initiative that will continue to run, helping to build a better future for Lincoln. Big thanks to EcomeOne and Eagle Eye Innovations on getting us started!”
Carrianne Dukes at EcomeOne said: “We are gifting square meters of wildflowers to our clients to support them in their sustainability journey. This allows us to showcase our commitment to helping the planet, while building relationships in a sustainable and meaningful way.”
The target of 2,000 square metres will bring: 6 Tonnes of Co2 sequestered, 1m wildflowers, 24,000 bees every year for 30 years, 285 butterfly pairs, enough insects to feed 10 small birds, 400+ mice and voles and a home for hundreds of different species above and below ground.
A Bassetlaw micro-brewery is among 23 businesses to have received funding and support to cut their carbon footprint and boost their environmental credentials.
Welbeck Abbey Brewery is among those to have benefitted from a Decarbonisation Audit and Grant that has been made possible by funding from the UK Government, distributed by Bassetlaw District Council.
The brewery has used its funding to install a new copper kettle and burner, which has helped reduce its carbon emissions by over 11.6 tonnes of CO2 equivalent a year, equal to the average emissions of 11 passengers on a return flight from Paris to New York.
Claire Monk from Welbeck Abbey Brewery said: “Environmental sustainability has been high on the agenda at Welbeck Abbey Brewery for over a decade. However, in recent years we have made a further push to really reduce our carbon footprint.
“The biggest yet most rewarding project has just come to fruition by replacing a 40-year-old brewing kettle with a custom built one. We are delighted to have had both the technical advice and financial support of Bassetlaw District Council through their grant scheme, without which we may not have gone ahead with the replacement.”
Other businesses have successfully completed decarbonisation works such as installing energy efficient lighting, solar panels, or insulation after receiving grants of up to £5k from the council.
It followed a paid for audit which looked at ways businesses in the district could become more sustainable as well as identifying financial savings.
Cllr Charles Adams, Cabinet Member for Business and Skills and Ward Member for Welbeck, said: “It is great to see a local business being supported to grow and innovate through our funding. I look forward to seeing how Welbeck Abbey Brewery continues to develop and expand over the coming decade.”
Forty-five businesses have completed the energy audit with the rest expected to receive their carbon emission cutting grants in the coming months.
Cllr Darrell Pulk, Cabinet Member for Environment and Energy, said: “These Decarbonisation grants are making a real difference to businesses as not only do they help to cut carbon emissions they also save costs, a win, win scenario.
“Our Vision 2040 is for Bassetlaw to become the greenest, most sustainable district to live and work and this will help improve building efficiency for many local businesses.”
Decarbonisation grants worth a total of £60k, split over 12 businesses, are still up for grabs for micro and small businesses who are looking to introduce energy efficient measures, with funding coming from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Blaby District Council is investing an extra £57,835 to secure the future of a specialist, supported housing scheme.
At the recent Full Council meeting, it was agreed to release the funding for the project at Grove Road in Blaby village.
The 15 one-bed apartments scheme is being delivered by housing association Norton Housing and Support, and Nottingham Community Housing Association. It will provide much-needed homes for adults with mental health needs.
Together with Homes England the Council had already partially grant funded the scheme with a contribution of £75,000 approved in January 2022.
Construction was progressing well until January 2024 when work ceased due to the developer going out of business.
A new developer has been found but extra costs are involved, requiring all partners to help meet the deficit of £173,505.
Councillor Terry Richardson, Leader of Blaby District Council, said: “It was unfortunate problems beyond our control have arisen with this scheme but I am delighted that members are unanimously committed to the project and voted to make the necessary funds available.
“We recognise there is a lack of this type of supported accommodation available in the District. There are currently 101 single people on the Council’s housing register who have a diagnosed mental health condition. This makes up 33% of all applications from single people. These flats will help meet this need.”
The apartments will be let at social rent and owned and managed by Norton Housing and Support. The Leicestershire-based charity and registered housing association supports adults with mental health needs and women at risk of homelessness.
A housing officer will help residents maintain their tenancy and live as independently as possible. Advice and signposting will be available on life issues such as health, education, employment, grants and benefits.
Councillor Les Phillimore, Blaby District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community, Housing and Environmental Services, said: “We are committed to continuing to support this new housing project. It will provide specialist accommodation for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”
The apartments are Norton’s first new build scheme.
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East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
When: Thursday 3rd October 2024, 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: The Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground
Keynote speaker: Paul Southby, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire
Dress code: Standard business attire
Tickets: Available at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/east-midlands-bricks-awards-2024-tickets-902294566337?aff=oddtdtcreator
Thanks to our sponsors:
