Tuesday, May 6, 2025

July start for next major phase of Chesterfield town centre regeneration

Tess Egginton
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July start for next major phase of Chesterfield town centre regeneration
The next phase of the regeneration of Chesterfield town centre is set to start in July – with experienced contractor, Thomas Bow, now appointed to take the project forward. The multi-million pound Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project includes a range of improvement works to transform the look, feel and flow of the town’s key public spaces. The works are due to start on 1 July and will take eighteen months to complete. The project will begin in Market Square, where improvements will create a new market layout with new stalls and enhancements to paving, seating and lighting, before moving on to New Square, where works will be carried out to create an attractive flexible space to support both traditional and speciality markets and a wider range of uses. The final phase will involve improvement works to Rykneld Square. Separately, G F Tomlinson will carry out improvements to Corporation Street to create a new gateway to the refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall. A spokesperson for the council said: “We’re pleased to confirm Thomas Bow as our contractor and look forward to the project gathering pace over the coming weeks – with work due to start next month. The town centre will remain open for business, although inevitably the work will cause some short-term disruption and we thank people in advance for their patience. “We have a detailed plan to support our market traders and town centre businesses throughout the improvement works, and we’ll also be making sure we keep members of the public up to date by sharing information as the work progresses.”
New Square – the plans will create an attractive and flexible space that will complement the main market and speciality markets, but can also be used to host festivals, events, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings – bringing the town centre to life.
Thomas Bow is an experienced civil engineering contractor having worked on major public realm regeneration projects in cities across the Midlands, including Lincoln, Nottingham and Leicester. They will be operating a site office from Low Pavement and from where members of the public will be able to view the plans and find out more about how the project is progressing. John Allen, Construction Director from Thomas Bow, said: “We are delighted to secure this important scheme with Chesterfield Borough Council. As a local contractor with significant experience in successful public realm delivery across the Midlands, our teams are very much looking forward to embarking on this project in the coming months.”
Rykneld Square – this area will be transformed to create a more welcoming, green space from which to enjoy the much-loved Crooked Spire, and better connect this landmark to the town centre.

Duo of major student schemes tipped for approval in Nottingham

Tess Egginton
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Duo of major student schemes tipped for approval in Nottingham
Two major student accommodation schemes have been recommended for approval ahead of Nottingham City Council’s Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday 19 June. The first development, on Norton Street, on part of the former John Player factory in Radford, would comprise two accommodation blocks of 7 storeys. Each block would accommodate a mix of studios and 3 to 10 bed cluster apartments, comprising 587 bedspaces in total. The ground floor of ‘Block D’ would have extensive communal and ancillary areas including a lounge, study area, gym, spa, laundry room, and bike storage. A lounge area with roof garden is additionally included at level 7. ‘Block E’ would also have a lounge area at ground floor level. Landscaped outside space is to be provided within a ‘green heart’ area. Hyson Green Developments are behind the plans for the site, currently a former car park. The second development, which sits at the junction of Wilford Road and Traffic Street, involves the erection of an up to 17 storey building. The site has historically been used for industrial and commercial purposes since the 1880’s and was latterly occupied by Sentinel House, used by Boots as offices and a laboratory. This was demolished and the site cleared in 2008. The site is currently hoarded and in use as a construction compound and parking area associated with the development of sites on Traffic Street. The scheme comprises 396 bedrooms across a range of cluster flats and studios. The lower ground, ground and first floors would accommodate communal facilities such as a gym, cinema, private dining space, games area, amenity spaces, meeting rooms, a cycle store, laundry and waste storage facilities. Externally, a sunken entrance space incorporates soft landscaping and tapering steps to provide informal seating, whilst a further courtyard space with soft landscaping and seating is also proposed. Jensco is behind the plans.

Latest ONS numbers ring alarm bells for SMEs, says FSB

Stuart Pearcey
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April rings alarm bells, according to the Federation of Small Businesses.
Latest figures from the ONS shows that GDP was flat in April, promoting the FSB’s Martin McTague to say the economy was not yet delivering the conditions that small businesses needed to flourish. He said: “Coming off the back of solid growth in the first quarter, it is especially disappointing. With the election just weeks away, no political party has yet set out a compelling vision for how it would achieve a steady increase of two to three per cent growth per year. To ensure that GDP climbs – and stays – at healthy levels, the next Government must prioritise this. It’s the only way we can rebuild the number of small businesses in the UK from 5.5 million to the pre-pandemic level of six million. “Construction output fell for the third month in a row, underlining the need for a new Small Housebuilder Strategy, to ensure sufficient capacity to achieve ambitious housebuilding targets. “Our latest Small Business Index shows that while small firms’ confidence score in the first quarter climbed to positive territory for the first time in two years, the domestic economy was still seen as the top barrier to growth, and today’s GDP result could contribute to a decline in the findings for the second quarter. “Now that the National Living Wage (NLW) increase has kicked in, employment costs are a growing pressure. To help offset that, our election manifesto calls for the Employment Allowance to be raised to £6,500 and automatically go up each year with the NLW. “Whoever takes office on July 5 should also see through a Small Business Act, establishing legislation to bolster small businesses on crucial issues. This does not require any extra spending but will bring a wealth of benefits to the economy. The Act would enshrine measures to clamp down on big businesses with poor payment practices, improve access to finance, and put in place a 33 per cent SME statutory public procurement target. Other measures could include reforming business rates and increasing the number of start-up loans. “Small firms are the key to economic recovery – after all, they’re the ones who drive innovation and create jobs. Supporting them is a sure-fire way to strengthen our economy and ensure lasting growth. The next Government has its work cut out for it, but with the right focus, it will be able to make a substantial impact on the economy.”

East Midlands Chamber plans to reveal region’s top 500 companies at next week’s annual dinner

Stuart Pearcey
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East Midlands Chamber plans to reveal region’s top 500 companies at next week’s annual dinner
The East Midlands region’s top 500 companies will be revealed at the East Midlands Chamber’s annual dinner next week. East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins said: “I’m delighted to host the Annual Dinner once again, which is very much the jewel in the crown of the Chamber’s calendar.   The most influential of the East Midlands business community will be able to reflect on the challenges of the year gone by and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, while enjoying an excellent menu. De Montfort University Professor David Rae, who compiled data for the Top 500 index, said: “East Midlands Chamber has been a partner of the East Midlands Top 500 Companies since its inception and we’re delighted this year to be sponsoring the presentation of the Top 500 at the East Midlands Chamber Annual Dinner. This rightly positions the Top 500 at a prestigious gathering of business leaders in the region.” Mr Dawkins added: “The venue Goosedale is a stunning setting, and it’s tremendously exciting that we’ve not only secured a superb keynote speaker in Katie King, with her extensive knowledge on AI and its potential; we also have the Top 500 Companies being revealed at the event too. I’m very much looking forward to sharing my thoughts and to speaking with my fellow diners at what will be a memorable evening.” The event is on June 20th.

Council puts historic building up for auction

Tess Egginton
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Council puts historic building up for auction
Derbyshire County Council’s former adult community education centre in New Mills town centre is to go up for auction this month with a £235,000 guide price. The historic, two-storey, 15,000 sq ft building stands on a one-acre site on Spring Bank and was most recently the home of the High Peak Community Arts organisation. It is now being put up for sale by the council and will appear in the online auction being held by SDL Property Auctions on 27 June. Built in 1891, the stone-built property was originally constructed by local philanthropists and business owners, the Mackie Family, as the Mackie Memorial Library. Andrew Parker, auctioneer and managing director at SDL Property Auctions, said: “This imposing building, which has been an important presence in the town for over 130 years, would be well suited to a variety of alternative uses that would make a positive new addition for people in New Mills. “Redeveloping the property to create apartments, a medical centre or some other community scheme, subject to obtaining the appropriate planning consents, are all options. It will be interesting to see what the next chapter holds for this characterful building.”

Loughborough’s BRUSH acquires Scottish M&E building consultancy

Tess Egginton
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Loughborough’s BRUSH acquires Scottish M&E building consultancy
Energy engineering solutions provider BRUSH Group has acquired Rybka, the Scottish mechanical and electrical building services and sustainability consultancy. The acquisition expands the Loughborough firm’s portfolio of services to include mechanical and electrical consulting engineering, BIM (Building Information Modelling), building physics, Passivhaus design and low carbon consulting. It also gives BRUSH a foothold in the Scottish market whilst enabling Rybka to grow into England and Wales, supported by London-based building services consultancy Eta Projects Ltd – acquired by BRUSH in 2022 – which has a strong track record in healthcare and critical infrastructure. Nicolas Pitrat, CEO of BRUSH Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Rybka on board as part of the BRUSH Group. We already share a lot in common and I see many of our values reflected in the way the team at Rybka works together to deliver outstanding results for their clients. “I am impressed with their breadth of knowledge and expertise, and having Rybka as part of the Group will support our ESG ambitions and create decarbonisation opportunities with our customers.” David MacLeod, Rybka chairman, said: “We are very excited to be joining the BRUSH Group. Our proven track record as a provider of outstanding consultancy services, along with BRUSH’s reputation for delivering engineering excellence, will ensure we continue to go from strength to strength. “Working in partnership with BRUSH we will grow our geographical footprint and build on our existing expertise, while continuing to deliver an exceptional customer experience.” Established in Scotland in the 1990s, Rybka has continued to grow, especially with the advent of the decarbonisation agenda and drive towards a low carbon economy. With more than 50 staff located in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, Rybka will become a key part of the BRUSH Engineering Solutions portfolio whilst operating independently with existing partners and clients. Rybka is the latest in a series of acquisitions and ventures by the BRUSH Group. The company anticipates that this acquisition will give rise to career opportunities for both the teams at Rybka and BRUSH, with the creation of more job roles across the UK.

UK economy showed no growth in April

Tess Egginton
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UK economy showed no growth in April
The UK economy showed no growth in April, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). It comes after GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, increased 0.4% in March, and reflects expectations that GDP would be flat. Economic growth was held back by further contraction in the construction industry, with construction output falling by 1.4% in April, its third consecutive monthly fall, and weakness in the manufacturing sector, with production output dropping by 0.9% in April. Meanwhile services output grew by just 0.2% in April, its fourth consecutive monthly growth. The figures were in part impacted by wet weather, where rain was 155% of the long term April average. Ben Jones, Lead Economist, CBI, said: “After one of the wettest Aprils since records began it’s no surprise that rain dampened consumer spending, with many households also feeling the pinch from higher prices and bills. “But consumers and firms alike are going to start to feel the benefit of lower inflation, which in turn should boost confidence and support spending as we head into a summer packed with major entertainment and sports events, like the Euros. “Lower inflation, rising real incomes and low unemployment mean household spending is set to drive a steady economic recovery in the year ahead, which should broaden out to stronger business investment next year. “However, to ensure longer-term, sustainable growth we must tackle our ongoing productivity problem. Top of the in-tray for the next government should be a cutting-edge trade and investment strategy, a Net Zero Investment Plan and more support for firms to invest in automation and AI. “At the same time, a focus on building momentum behind the ‘big three’ enablers of tax, planning and skills policies within the first 100 days can give firms a clear flightpath for growth.”

Net zero firm devises way to save NHS millions in energy bills

Tess Egginton
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Net zero firm devises way to save NHS millions in energy bills
A company that helps organisations reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs has become the first to design a method of harnessing waste heat from MRI machines. Viridis Building Services devised the ground-breaking innovation as part of its work to deliver the UK’s first fully net zero Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), in Scunthorpe town centre. Not scheduled for completion until this autumn, the £19.4m Scunthorpe CDC new-build project is already on target to achieve net zero status, having been passed as such by Building Regulations and construction-stage EPC ratings. Viridis was tasked to achieve as close as possible to net zero with the scheme but is confident that it will surpass expectations and create a building that will even be able to feed excess energy back into the National Grid. The firm, based in Collingham, near Newark, has introduced a combination of natural and mechanical heating and ventilation, roof-mounted PV tiles and optimal lighting systems. But as part of its problem-solving process, it has also pioneered a method for capturing the enormous amounts of rejected heat from the centre’s two MRI machines and feeding that energy back into the 2,000 sq. metre building. This innovation alone could save the NHS millions of pounds in energy costs if the same method was introduced across its estate. Lee Marshall, Managing Director of Viridis, said: “The knock-on benefits to this unique breakthrough could be huge. “Not only have we delivered the UK’s first net zero Community Diagnostic Centre, we have also achieved a solution with the MRI heat recovery process that could save millions in energy bills and make a significant contribution to the reduction of the NHS’s carbon footprint.” Scunthorpe CDC is one of the 160 Community Diagnostic Centres that the Government pledged to deliver before the end of 2024. The centres, which are being located in high-population areas close to public transport networks to provide easy patient access and encourage a reduction in car travel, will provide non-invasive treatments such as MRI scans, CT scans, ultrasounds and X-Rays.
Architect impression of the new Scunthorpe CDC
Due to its strong reputation for delivering net zero buildings, Viridis was given a completely open brief with Scunthorpe CDC by Northern Lincolnshire & Goole NHS Foundation Trust. “We were told they wanted a ‘nearly’ net zero building, as part of the NHS Estate’s commitment towards eventually achieving net zero across its entire portfolio,” said Lee. “How we achieved that was effectively up to us. So we employed our usual process of combining each team member’s individual expertise in various disciplines to ask how we can exceed the brief and actually deliver a fully net zero building – within budget. “We do not stop short at only implementing what has gone before. We always challenge the norms – and, like here, it often pays off.” The Viridis team working on this project comprised of experts in mechanical engineering and electrical design, renewable energy and the environment. The team’s first ideas focused on the thermal efficiency of the building – ways to contain heat and recover waste heat. They then began to look at various energy systems within the building, such as lighting, and came up with ways to optimise them to create maximum efficiency and minimum carbon emissions. But the major breakthrough came about when the team began to investigate the enormous quantities of heat that are traditionally rejected from MRI machines.
Architect impression of the new Scunthorpe CDC
The use of MRI machines as energy providers rather than energy wasters had never been done before. Heat produced by MRIs would normally be ‘disposed of’ through a fan to the outside atmosphere, whereas Viridis found a way to collect and re-use it with the use of heat pumps. A building like Scunthorpe CDC would typically have expected to pay around £60k-£65k per year for its energy. But with the Viridis innovations, it is expected to have zero energy costs and figures indicate it may be able to sell around £1k of energy back to the Grid.

Loughborough University development could fix “significant problem” in solar panel industry

Tess Egginton
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Loughborough University development could fix “significant problem” in solar panel industry

A new development at Loughborough University could fix a “significant problem” within the solar panel industry.

A team, led by Professor Michael Walls from the University’s Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology (CREST), has worked on a new way to improve the cover glass for solar modules – which increases the amount of light transmitted into the panel whilst decreasing the amount of soiling clinging to the surface. The new concept aims to reduce the number of panels with anti-reflective coatings – with 90% of modules currently unable to withstand regular cleaning. Academics at the University found the standard anti-reflective coatings used by the solar industry are easily damaged by abrasion during cleaning. In addition, the coatings are ‘hydrophilic’ which means they are more likely to adhere to dust or other soiling. Soiling on the panel prevents light getting to the active part of the module and reduces the power being generated. Professor Walls said: “The issues surrounding the solar panel industry will only become greater as time moves on, as the industry is growing at a staggering rate. Solar use is forecast to exceed coal by 2027 to become the most important source of electricity generation across the globe. “This project addresses the significant problems of reflection and soiling to increase the power output from solar modules. “We use a polymer to glass laminate. The polymer faces the sun and has a very low reflection – much lower than glass. At the same time, it is highly hydrophobic so soiling doesn’t easily stick and makes the surface much easier to clean. “Crucially, the polymer/glass laminate is robust and abrasion resistant. Although the industry is conservative, the advantages are compelling. If the industry adopts the technology, the economic and environmental impact will be substantial.”

Recruitment consultancy makes public pledge to support Armed Forces community

Tess Egginton
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Recruitment consultancy makes public pledge to support Armed Forces community
A Kettering recruitment consultancy has publicly pledged its support to the armed forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. For many years, Wills Consultants has worked closely with the armed forces to help those leaving the military to secure permanent employment roles that help them adjust to civilian life. They have now gone one step further in signing the Armed Forces Covenant and by doing so, acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served their country, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the community, economy and society. Since it was established in June 2013, thousands of companies have voluntarily added their names to the roster. Wills Consultants cofounder Nikki Wills said: “We are very proud of the work we do to help those leaving the armed forces to find the right role for them in civilian life. It can be a difficult transition period for veterans, and it is vital to provide the right support to make the transition as easy as possible. “We work hard to match companies to veterans and believe it is imperative to invest plenty of time to ensure that the two are a compatible match. “We are delighted to be able to publicly show our support for the military through the Armed Forces Covenant and I would encourage all businesses to consider doing the same thing and backing this fantastic scheme, which honours all those people who so selflessly serve our country to keep us safe.”

Furnley House Foundation FiveAthlon Challenge raises over £11,000 for local Leicestershire charities

Tess Egginton
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Furnley House Foundation FiveAthlon Challenge raises over £11,000 for local Leicestershire charities
From Wednesday 5th to Sunday 9th June, Chief Executive Officer Stefan Fura, Head of Culture Kevin Dunn and Protection Specialist Darren Bradbury, joined forces for the FiveAthlon Challenge. This event aimed to raise funds for three Leicestershire based charities. The Inspiring FiveAthlon Challenge pushed the team to their limits, not just physically but also mentally. Over five consecutive days and across five diverse locations, each team member took on their own rigorous activity: Stefan Fura swam 2km, Kevin ran 13.1 miles and Darren cycled 91 kilometres per day. During the challenging days, friends of Furnley House joined the team for various legs of the challenge, amplifying their efforts to maximise fundraising. The Furnley House Foundation was born out of local financial adviser and mortgage broker Furnley House’s ambition to create opportunities and improve the lives of the local community. The money raised from the Furnley House Foundation will support three charities that were selected during the 2023 Leicestershire Community Champions Awards and includes: Charity of the year winner – Steps Conductive Education Centre; and finalists Focus Charity and Heartwize. Steps Conductive Education Centre is a registered charity supporting families with children who have special educational needs. Focus Charity supports vulnerable young people, many of whom are in mental health crisis. Heartwize delivers basic life support training which includes CPR using resuscitation dolls as well as teaching how to use a defibrillator. Kevin Dunn, Head of Culture, said: “The FiveAthlon Challenge was an incredible experience that pushed us all to our limits. Knowing that our efforts will make a real difference for amazing causes is what really kept us going. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported us, whether by sponsoring, donating, spreading the word, providing butties or joining us for a leg of the challenge, your support made all the difference. Thank you!”

Appointment made to head up Midlands expansion of Cornerstone Commercial Finance

Tess Egginton
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Appointment made to head up Midlands expansion of Cornerstone Commercial Finance
Finance industry professional John Maude has been appointed by Cornerstone Finance Group to lead the Commercial Finance business in the Midlands region. John has been appointed Head of Commercial Finance (Midlands) to drive further expansion of the commercial lending business, where he’ll have responsibility for growing both the team and client base. John has over 36 years of experience, where he has led teams within both the business and commercial banking fields and is looking forward to applying his skills to expand the Cornerstone client base and help Midlands-based businesses to secure lending to meet their business needs. John said: “I am delighted to be joining the Cornerstone Finance Group with the remit of building the business and establishing the brand as the number one commercial broker in the Midlands. “Businesses across the Midlands are striving for growth and Cornerstone has vast experience of working with such clients to offer bespoke advice whilst working together to find solutions that are right for them.” John started his career at RBS, later becoming NatWest, where he held a number of roles and spent 30 years in leadership. He has recently held the role as Regional Managing Director, Midlands, South West & Wales, followed by the last 18 months as Head of Business Banking Portfolio Management. John’s appointment will see Cornerstone Commercial Finance extend its reach from Wales and the south west of England into the Midlands area. Commenting on his appointment, Cornerstone Commercial Finance Managing Director, Kevin Morgan said: “John’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the Cornerstone business, and we are delighted to have him on board to lead the expansion of the business in the Midlands. “We have grown the business in Wales and the south west and are delighted that with John at the helm we can offer Midlands businesses a range of commercial lending solutions. “John has a proven track record in financial management and business development that aligns with our strategy of providing bespoke solutions to our clients and we look forward to the valuable contributions he will make to the success of Cornerstone Finance Group and our clients.”

Sustainable and inclusive fleet management strategies

Tess Egginton
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Sustainable and inclusive fleet management strategies
Managing a fleet efficiently is crucial for any business reliant on transportation. However, achieving this in a way that is both sustainable and inclusive can present unique challenges. Here are some practical strategies to help your business navigate these challenges and achieve a fleet that is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly and accessible to all. Embrace Green Technology One of the most impactful steps towards sustainable fleet management is the adoption of green technology. This can include electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid models that significantly reduce carbon emissions. While the initial investment might be higher, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance costs are considerable. Moreover, as regulations around emissions tighten, having a green fleet can future-proof your business and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Installing charging stations at your business premises is another step towards sustainability. Partnering with local authorities to access public charging infrastructure can also be beneficial. Incentives and grants are often available for businesses transitioning to electric vehicles, so take advantage of these opportunities to offset costs. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring Maintaining your fleet in top condition is essential for both sustainability and efficiency. Regular maintenance checks ensure that vehicles run smoothly and efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Implementing a robust monitoring system can help track vehicle performance and identify any issues early on. Telematics systems can provide valuable data on driving habits, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs. This data allows for proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of your vehicles. Additionally, encouraging eco-friendly driving habits among your drivers, such as smooth acceleration and braking, can further enhance fuel efficiency. Prioritise Accessibility Inclusivity is another critical aspect of modern fleet management. Ensuring that your fleet includes vehicles that can accommodate passengers with disabilities not only broadens your customer base but also demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility. Reputable, long-established companies like Cab Direct offer wheelchair-accessible taxis, which can be a valuable addition to your fleet. Having a mix of vehicles that cater to various needs ensures that you can provide services to a wider audience. This inclusivity can enhance your reputation and open up new business opportunities. Additionally, being known as a company that prioritises accessibility can build customer loyalty and trust. Invest in Training and Development Your drivers play a crucial role in the sustainability and efficiency of your fleet. Investing in regular training programs can ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to operate vehicles efficiently. Training should cover eco-driving techniques, safety practices, and the proper use of any new technologies or vehicles introduced to the fleet. Moreover, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and encouraging feedback from your drivers can lead to innovative ideas for further enhancing fleet efficiency and sustainability. Recognising and rewarding good practices can also motivate drivers to maintain high standards. Efficient Route Planning Efficient route planning can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Using route optimisation software can help identify the most efficient routes, taking into account factors such as traffic, road conditions, and delivery schedules. This not only saves time and fuel but also improves service delivery and customer satisfaction. Real-time tracking and dynamic routing can further enhance efficiency. By responding to traffic changes or urgent delivery requests promptly, you can ensure that your fleet operates at maximum efficiency at all times. Adopt a Circular Economy Approach Adopting a circular economy approach in fleet management involves considering the entire lifecycle of your vehicles. This means planning for the reuse, refurbishment, or recycling of vehicles and their components at the end of their service life. Partnering with companies that offer vehicle recycling services can ensure that your old vehicles are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Furthermore, exploring options for using remanufactured parts for vehicle repairs can reduce costs and environmental impact. This approach not only supports sustainability but also promotes resource efficiency. Engage with Stakeholders Engaging with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and suppliers, is vital for successful sustainable and inclusive fleet management. Regular communication and collaboration can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that everyone is on board with your sustainability goals. Customer feedback can provide insights into how your services are perceived and where there might be opportunities to enhance inclusivity or efficiency. Working closely with suppliers can also lead to better deals on green technology and maintenance services. Measure and Report Progress Finally, measuring and reporting your progress is crucial for continuous improvement. Set clear sustainability and inclusivity targets for your fleet and regularly review your performance against these goals. Transparency in reporting can build trust with stakeholders and demonstrate your commitment to these values. Using performance indicators such as fuel consumption, emissions, maintenance costs, and customer satisfaction can provide a comprehensive view of your fleet’s performance. Regularly sharing these results with your team and stakeholders ensures accountability and helps drive ongoing improvements. Achieving sustainable and inclusive fleet management requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates green technology, efficient practices, and a commitment to accessibility. By embracing these strategies, your business can enhance its operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and provide inclusive services to a broader customer base. Investing in sustainability and inclusivity is not only beneficial for the environment and society but also positions your business as a leader in responsible and forward-thinking practices.

Engineering and groundworks contractor fined following HGV driver’s death

Tess Egginton
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Engineering and groundworks contractor fined following HGV driver’s death
A Nottinghamshire-based engineering and groundworks contractor has been fined £233,000 for safety breaches after a 52-year old HGV driver was struck and killed by the mast of a piling rig at a house build site in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway. On 21 January 2021, Gary Dobinson, who was employed by another company, visited the Hallmeadow development off Elm Road with his lorry to collect and transfer the piling rig owned by Van Elle Limited. Tragically, as the mast of the rig was being lowered in preparation for its transportation, it suddenly collapsed and struck Mr Dobinson. Site workers and the emergency services raced to the scene to try to help him, but he sadly died from his injuries. An investigation by Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that insufficient measures had been taken to maintain the piling rig in a safe condition prior to the incident. Specifically, the securing lug for one of the mast’s retaining pins was badly corroded and failed, allowing the pin to displace, causing the mast to topple. Van Elle Limited, of Southwell Lane, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 5 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. The company was fined £233,000 at Dumfries Sheriff Court on 4 June 2024. HSE inspector James Caren said: “All work equipment should be subject to suitable inspection and maintenance to ensure that it can be used without risk to the safety of those using it and those in the vicinity. Construction plant are exposed to harsh conditions and require effective inspection and maintenance regimes to avoid safety defects developing. “The company should have had robust measures in place to maintain the piling rig so that it was structurally sound and could be operated safely.”

Northamptonshire trade counter and drive thru scheme fully let and sold

Tess Egginton
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Northamptonshire trade counter and drive thru scheme fully let and sold
Tungsten Properties has secured occupiers and freehold sales for all seven of its trade counter units and one drive-thru at Tungsten Trade Park Brackley, Northamptonshire. The new occupiers include Easy Bathrooms, Screwfix, Garage 59, DAR Group, Toolstation, Rapid Electrical, Rexel, and Costa Coffee. All seven trade units and the drive thru have been sold either directly as occupier freehold sales, or as investments to a range of private investors. The project, which commenced in Q3 2021 and reached practical completion in Q4 2022, was Tungsten’s second scheme to be delivered in JV with funder Euro Property Investments Limited. Jeff Penman, Managing Director, Tungsten Properties, said: “Following a significant deterioration in the institutional investment market, we made the decision to separate the estate and sell as seven individual properties which resulted in the project performing ahead of business plan. “The success of the scheme, despite challenging economic conditions post-completion, has led to further deals being agreed between Tungsten and EPIL at sites in Milton Keynes and High Wycombe.” Ashleigh Hayes, associate development director, Tungsten Properties, added: “To have all units occupied and sold shows the strength of demand for trade counters in the thriving town of Brackley. “We have a fantastic tenant line up and the occupiers will undoubtedly benefit from each other’s presence on the Park. This is evidenced by Costa which has already extended their lease, showing the strength of the trading position.” Andrew Franck-Steier, Atlas Real Estate, said: “Tungsten Properties has built another excellent scheme in a prime location in the market town of Brackley which is experiencing significant expansion due to the delivery of new homes and its proximity to the A road and wider motorway network. “The lettings to these key occupiers along with freehold investments have provided investors with long-term income.” Carter Jonas and White Commercial were the appointed commercial agents whilst Atlas Real Estate advised on the investment sales.

Trading Standards officials probe retail pricing errors in Derby

Stuart Pearcey
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Trading Standards officials probe retail pricing errors in Derby
In a crackdown on bad pricing, Derby City Council’s Trading Standards team have checked the prices of 5,000 products across 47 premises in a citywide sweep, and found 218 non-compliant prices, eight misleading offers and 30 incorrect pricings. While many of the price discrepancies were small, if a major retailer sold items in large quantities then the detriment to the consumer would add up. A spokesperson for Derby City Council said: “Our duty to protect consumers in Derby also stretches to their wallets. At a time where prices are high, it’s important that people are getting a fair deal on essential goods and are not being overcharged for them. “These recent inspections may have only identified a few discrepancies at some stores but these can add up for consumers, especially during a cost of living crisis. We will continue to monitor pricing practices around the city and take action where necessary.” These Derby findings reinforced a wider regional operation called Operation Londonite, which is being led by the Competition and Markets Authority, which conducted on-site inspections and looked at a sample of products – such as fresh fruit and vegetables and products on promotion. During inspections at some stores, the CMA found examples where the retailer was displaying inaccurate prices or failed to display prices at all for certain products. Failing to provide clear and accurate pricing information for products on sale is a breach of consumer law. George Lusty, Interim Executive Director for Consumer Protection and Markets at the CMA, said: “We know how frustrating it can be when you get to the till only to find the price doesn’t match what was advertised. While lots of grocery retailers – particularly supermarkets – are complying with pricing rules, this needs to consistently be the case across all types of stores. “It’s important that shoppers can make well-informed choices based on accurate information, especially at a time when lots of people are looking to save money. That’s why we are reminding businesses of the importance of complying with consumer law.”

What might businesses want from the next government? By James Pinchbeck, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants

Tess Egginton
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What might businesses want from the next government? By James Pinchbeck, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants
James Pinchbeck, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants, provides food for thought ahead of the general election. The wait is over and we now have a date for a general election, the 4th July. Whilst many will have been pressing for and wanting an election, how many of us have considered why or what we really want from the next government? Whilst individuals will no doubt have their own thoughts and asks, these invariably will be unique to them. When it comes to businesses there is probably a more collective thought or ask. Perhaps this might start with a government that provides greater stability, a sense of direction and vision for the future, one that has empathy for people and businesses alike, with the need for disruption and doing things differently being at the heart of addressing the challenges we face. That is opposed to internal politics and disruption we have seen over the term of this parliament, with infighting and a focus on themselves rather than the people they serve. There also feels like a need to demonstrate more in terms of good governance and embracing the Nolan principles of public life, which are around selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. For many in business there is a real quest for a more stable economy along with greater certainty and growth. With a greater sense of confidence and trust, optimism tends to follow along with the assurance and decision to make business investments and to drive change and growth. It would seem that much of the challenge of the cost of living has rightly focused on individuals but we mustn’t forget that people run, manage and work in businesses. Therefore, businesses are also impacted both directly and indirectly by the cost of living and the cost of running a business. Certainly, businesses are keen to see costs come down and stay down, something which no doubt requires a continued focus on the likes of energy costs and overall supply chain management. Rising costs over recent years, along with workforce and skills shortages, are certainly taking their toll on established, new and scale up enterprises. As such there needs to be a greater focus on improving productivity and for ensuring that our education system, from primary to tertiary and lifelong learning, is best placed to support the needs of our businesses. Business leaders are also frustrated by poor infrastructure, not least the inability to travel efficiently and effectively around the country whether by road, rail or public transport – we would all benefit from investment in the same. Whilst healthcare will be high on the list of issues campaigned about and will be on the minds of the electorate, we often overlook the impact on the workplace of people not being able to access and receive the health and welfare care and support they need. Certainly, many a business could benefit from a more robust, resilient and responsive care sector. Though it may seem an age since the pandemic, we are still dealing with the fallout and there still seems a lot to be done to support communities affected and the lasting changes we face. In particular it seems that many of our vital third sector organisations and the social economy has been hard hit and one which, despite its key and vital role in society, is often overlooked. We must also consider Brexit as we still seem to not have realised the supposed or otherwise benefits of our withdrawal from the EU. For some this will be around dealing with the challenges involved in trading with EU states, as well as the need to explore and realise new trading opportunities. There is also the key issues of geo-political challenges and a real sense of unrest, war and conflict around the world. Nor too, global warming and the environment. Whatever the outcome of the election, hopefully this has provided food for thought. Perhaps surprisingly there is little reference here to taxation and the need for tax reform or changes.   See this column in the June issue of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.

Frontier Software support Festival of Work

Tess Egginton
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Frontier Software support Festival of Work
Frontier Software support CIPD Festival of Work at ExCel London on 12th and 13th June 2024. The Festival of Work, organised by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), returns for its sixth year bringing together the latest insights, trends, and innovations in HR, L&D, and internal communications. The event includes over 150 inspirational speakers and experts, sharing their knowledge and expertise on a wide range of topics, from employee experience, learning and development, to personal wellbeing. The festival floor is a must-visit destination, with over 170 exhibitor stands showcasing the latest innovations, cutting-edge workplace technology, business management tools and services. Visitors can expect to gain valuable insights, network with peers and discover new solutions to drive business success. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, stay up-to-date on industry trends, or find new corporate solutions, this event is not to be missed. An experienced and trusted provider, Frontier Software has been delivering innovative HR software solutions for over 40 years. Their extensive product range is continually being developed to meet the complex demands of HR professionals. The Frontier Software comprehensive suite of integrated software modules is designed to provide personalised employee interactions, striking the perfect balance between organisational and individual needs. With highly configurable automation tools, you can tailor your HR processes to fit your unique business requirements. Real-time data is always at your fingertips, empowering users to make informed and accurate decisions. Furthermore, the ChatHR feature enables seamless, conversational interactions between employees and your HR database, streamlining employee engagement and support. Visit Frontier Software at the Festival of Work to learn more about HR and/or Payroll cloud-based solutions, and outsourced payroll processing services for organisations of every size and sector.

Boost morale at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024

Tess Egginton
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Boost morale at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Placing the spotlight on the region’s property and construction industry, and offering a prime opportunity for networking, the prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards will return on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. Nominations for the event are open, and now is the perfect time to make your submissions ahead of the deadline (Thursday 5th September). Take this ideal opportunity to showcase projects, businesses and teams, reward their hard work, and bolster morale. To nominate your (or another) business/development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:

Nominations end Thursday 5th September

After winning Architects of the Year at last year’s event, Louise Jones, practice manager at Matthew Montague Architects, said: “We are delighted to win the Architects of the Year Award. 2023 is our 25th year in business and we are thrilled to receive this award in our milestone year. The event was well organised, well attended and thoroughly enjoyable.” Find out who last year’s winners were here.
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours. Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:      

             

To be held at:

Top business strategist joins Ashby-based property consultancy

Tess Egginton
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Top business strategist joins Ashby-based property consultancy
A top business strategist with 25 years’ experience in change management and consultancy has been hired by a property firm as it embarks on a new phase of ambitious growth over the next five years. Ben Southworth has joined Fisher German as its new Chief Operating Officer to drive the delivery of the firm’s growth strategy and to lead its shared services team as the company looks to consolidate its recent success of growing to have more than 800 employees across 26 offices. He will work closely with the directors in Fisher German’s shared services division, which includes functions such as HR, IT, finance, marketing and communications, to deliver a clear and cohesive plan for the division to support the business’s operations and future growth plans. Ben was part of the senior team that led the rescue and turnaround plan for the Co-op Group during its period of crisis in 2014, and has also worked for Deloitte, KPMG, and Accenture. More recently, Ben oversaw the growth of start-up Place Capital Group, which advises local authorities and housing associations on the design and delivery of social housing. Within three years the business now employs over 50 people. Ben said: “I’m very pleased to have joined a company like Fisher German, which is at a key juncture in its growth and is hungry to progress even further. “With its many areas of expertise in agency, advisory services, infrastructure services, and property management, it will be important to ensure all areas of the business are working together towards a common goal while continuing to deliver an excellent service for our clients and winning new work. “I think my range of experience both in management consultancy and change management – especially my recent work in the housing sector – will enable me to provide informed strategic and operational support to Fisher German as it continues on its upward curve.” Andrew Bridge, Managing Partner at Fisher German, added: “Fisher German’s growth, both through organic means as well as acquisitions, has got the company to a stage where it is ready to take that next leap into a new era. “Reflecting on our business plans for 2024-29, we need the correct structure and operational efficiencies in place to realise our ambitions. As such, we have appointed Ben to lead shared services as I focus on my other responsibilities to the Partnership, our clients and the wider firm. “Ben’s track record in ensuring all parts of a business work harmoniously to deliver excellent results meant we felt he would be well-placed to help Fisher German do the same. “After weathering the storm of the pandemic and the subsequent challenges of the property market to grow to our largest size, we’re looking forward to building on this success with Ben as our new COO.”
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