Turnover success for growing manufacturer
Doorcerts, the Nottinghamshire-based fire door supplier and manufacturer, is celebrating its growth after its first full financial year in new premises.
The company was officially founded in Ripley in 2020 but it wasn’t until it, and established sister company Fire Door Specialists, moved to Stanton Hill, Ashfield in late 2022 that it began operating fully.
In its financial year December 2022 to January 2023, it hit its forecast turnover and is already on track to be well ahead of its £1m target for this year.
When it moved to Stanton Hill, Doorcerts had just two staff members. Now it has seven and is also recruiting for an additional estimator.
It carries out work for a range of public and private sector organisations, and can name customers such as Cadburys, the Ministry of Defence, property developers and local councils among its client list.
Director and co-founder Kieran Percival said: “When we moved premises, we did so because we wanted space for the business to grow. We had, and continue to have, big plans and we are well on the way to achieving them.
“We have grown quite considerably recently, and we are very grateful for the support and advice we have been given along the way. Although we are growing, we are also a close-knit team here at Doorcerts and I think that that, along with being dedicated to customer service and having an ethos of transparency, has been the hallmark of our success so far.”
One of the people that Doorcerts recruited was the highly-experienced Sarah Armson, who has a background in fire safety products.
As commercial manager, she has overseen the development of the business, putting in place robust systems and policies, and co-ordinating the marketing along with specially-recruited marketing coordinator Craig Priest.
Derbyshire charity golf day set to help to make the sport more inclusive
The owner of a Derby heating firm is looking forward to raising awareness of the need for more accessibility on golf courses after agreeing to co-sponsor a fundraising event featuring some of Europe’s leading disabled golfers.
Stephen O’Brien, who owns Derby-based S O’Brien Heating Solutions, has joined forces with Derbyshire marketing agency Purpose Media to host a golf day next month to help generate funds for this year’s Cairns Cup competition.
The Cairns Cup is disability golf’s premier matchplay event and resembles the Ryder Cup, with a team of 16 golfers from Europe taking on a team from the USA over three days with a four-ball, foursomes and singles rounds.
The golf day, which will take place at Morley Hayes on June 11, is being held to raise funds to pay their costs and will see teams from businesses from across the East Midlands competing throughout the day alongside a number of the European squad, whose disabilities include paralysis, cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s.
They include star player Kris Aves, a former Metropolitan police officer who suffered spinal injuries when he was run over by a terrorist driving a stolen van in the Westminster Bridge attacks of 2007 – just minutes after he picked up a special award for his service to the force.
Now paralysed from the waist down, Kris gets around the golf course on a Paragolfer, a special wheelchair which enables him to get into a standing position when he needs to take his shots.
Other Cairn Cup team members will be taking part on June 11, alongside a team from British Inclusive Golf, who will be showing what’s possible in the world of disabled golf.
Steve is a keen golfer himself, having originally played the sport when he was 12. He gave it up a few years later but, when lockdown restrictions were lifting after COVID three years ago, he headed back out onto the golf course to get some much-needed fresh air and exercise.
He said: “I really enjoy my golf, so sponsoring an event like this seems like the right thing to do, but I really want to highlight how important it is to make golf more inclusive.
“A lot of golf courses are really not inclusive for disabled players, especially when it comes to getting in and out of the bunkers where disabled players are at risk of picking up penalties for not playing their shots.
“The rules need to change, so we need to raise awareness of the situation, which our golf day will do. It will also give local businesses the opportunity to play alongside the Cairns Cup players and see first-hand how incredible they are.”
The Cairns Cup takes place at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Detroit at the end of July and the European team will be seeking revenge, having lost to the USA at The Shire London, in Barnet, in 2022.
The event was established in 2018 when former soldier and disabled golfer Kevin Booth and fellow players decided to set up a Ryder Cup-style competition in memory of a friend, Billy Cairns, who died during a previous Europe vs USA disabled golf event called the Phoenix Cup.
Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, said: “Our charity golf day will give players a unique opportunity to understand the challenges faced by disabled golfers and the incredible ways in which they have adapted in order to play their game.
“We’ve got plenty of activities organised for the day and we’re all looking forward to it.”
It costs £400 per team of four to take part in the Morley Hayes charity golf day, which will include breakfast, a two-course dinner and an awards ceremony, as well as competitions throughout the day. To sign up to the golf day visit www.purposemedia.co.uk/purpose-media-golf-day-2024/
East Midlands business confidence on the rise
Business confidence in the East Midlands rose five points during May to 40%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Companies in the East Midlands reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up six points to 40%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up five points to 41%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 40% (vs. 35% in April).
Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (36%), evolving their offering (36%), and entering new markets (33%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. The data for this edition was collected between 1–16th May, before the UK general election was announced.
National picture
In May, overall UK business confidence reached its highest level since 2015 – rising by eight points to a net balance of 50%.
Businesses showed increased optimism in both their trading prospects (up nine points month-on-month to 54%) and the economy (up seven points to 46%). Firms’ trading outlook was the most optimistic in seven years, while economic optimism was the highest recorded since September 2021.
Scotland and the South East of England were the most optimistic of the UK nations or regions in May (both 57%), followed by the West Midlands (56%).
Sector insights
Similarly, there were particularly strong results reported in the construction and services sectors this month. Prospects in the construction sector jumped to 58% (up 20 points), the highest for 14 months, while in services, expected output increased to 57% (up 12 points). On the latter, it is the highest level since the survey was expanded in 2018. Expected business activity in the retail sector also improved to 49% (up three points).
Although trading prospects in manufacturing eased slightly to 49% (down three points), the underlying trend over the last three months remains positive.
Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It’s encouraging to see higher confidence across the East Midlands this month, particularly when it comes to firms’ own trading outlook. As businesses pursue their growth plans, we’ll continue to be their side to help make them a success.
“There’s good reason to be cheerful. May also saw the completion of the next step in a £1.14bn devolution deal for the region with the election of the first ever East Midlands Mayor.”
Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “These results highlight a notable improvement in business confidence. Optimism about the economy increased to 46% this month – the highest result since September 2021, when the country was emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic, but before the energy crisis after the invasion of Ukraine.
“The regional picture has also improved – we’ve now seen increases in seven of the UK’s 12 regions, where there was previously a more mixed picture. Results in the South East, Scotland and the West Midlands were particularly strong. Across the sectors, there were strong, broad-based improvements in services and construction.”
East Midlands Mayor gives green light to country’s largest local area energy plan
An ambitious scheme to meet Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire’s net zero targets has moved one step closer to reality, after the newly formed East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) gave its backing to the region’s Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP).
The LAEP – which has been designed and developed by a number of local authorities across the region, alongside the Midlands Net Zero Hub – will be supported by EMCCA, which is funding its implementation over the next two years.
The initiative will see a data-driven, net zero ‘action plan’ rolled out across the region, which will aim to deliver an effective, on-time and value for money approach to climate resilience, tailored to the need of local communities.
It will set out priority areas for different elements of the region’s energy system and identify the areas where specific technologies – such as heat pumps, EV charging and insulation schemes – would be most effectively installed.
Mott MacDonald and Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) have been appointed to drive the project forward over the next two years, working collaboratively with local authorities and Midlands Net Zero Hub.
The Local Area Energy Plan, once implemented, will be the largest of its kind in England – putting the region in a strong position to attract investment and create jobs in green industries.
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “Thanks to the fantastic work of our local authorities and valued partners, our region is in a strong position to meet the challenge of net zero and secure a sustainable future for our young people.
“We need to make big, systemic changes to the ways we produce and consume energy – and here in the East Midlands we want to drive this on a local level, putting communities in control of how best to tackle climate change.
“That’s why I am delighted to see the East Midlands Combined County Authority, which I chair and lead, supporting the Local Area Energy Plan. Not only will it provide a clear roadmap for a greener future, but it will also encourage more investment in low carbon technologies – creating high-skilled jobs and business growth in sectors that are working towards the net zero transition.”
Wayne Bexton, Director of Green Growth, Investment and Assets at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The appointment of a LAEP provider for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire is a significant milestone which will enable the new combined county authority to detail a clear, innovative path to achieving net zero.
“The work will ensure we can harness further investment into the region, creating new jobs and opportunities for training in low carbon industries.
“Our region has an unparalleled opportunity to lead for the UK on this agenda, and this is an exciting next step on that journey.”
Michael Gallagher, Director of Environment & Sustainability at Nottingham City Council (Interim) and Senior Responsible Officer Midlands Net Zero Hub, said: “The development of the largest Local Area Energy Plan in England, supported by the Midlands Net Zero Hub, has been a brilliant collaborative effort across all local authorities in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
“We are excited to be working with Mott-McDonald and IES to develop a joined-up plan that can help the region identify a cost-efficient route to net zero for the region that attracts investment, enables projects and supports economic growth.”
Work will get underway on rolling out the plan from June 2024.
Freeport initiative aims to link East Midlands to the coast through ‘green’ corridor
Freeport East and East Midlands Freeport are forging a new partnership to support a green freight corridor that will help decarbonise transport and drive enhanced skills and employment initiatives along the length of one of the UK’s most important transportation routes.
Building on the opportunities created by the Government’s recently published Freeports Delivery Roadmap, the initiative will support the decarbonisation of transport flows between the two Freeport locations. By working together, the Freeports will accelerate the technologies, business models, innovation and infrastructure needed to drive decarbonisation by utilising green hydrogen, electric charging systems and novel technology applications, such as digital twins.
Green Corridors are already an established part of the maritime decarbonisation sector. Delivering a green corridor initiative between the UK’s largest container port and the heart of the Midlands logistics Golden Triangle offers the opportunity to combine maritime and land transport decarbonisation initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of goods entering and leaving the UK.
Every day more than 5,000 trucks and freight trains leave the ports in the Freeport East area, with most heading towards the Midlands and onwards to other part of the UK. East Midlands Freeport, which is centred on the Golden Triangle for logistics, road, rail and the UK’s largest dedicated air cargo operation at East Midlands Airport, provides significant opportunities to drive clean fuel applications that will influence the whole of the UK.
Projects already under way that will support the corridor include development of green logistics infrastructure in Felixstowe, Stowmarket and East Midlands Gateway. East Midlands Freeport is supporting the transition of the UK’s last coal fired power station at Ratcliffe on Soar to a clean energy production hub, while Freeport East is also developing a Green Hydrogen Hub that will support clean fuels for transport decarbonisation.
Tom Newman-Taylor, Chief Executive of East Midlands Freeport,said: “This exciting initiative illustrates how Freeports can be forerunners in the decarbonisation of transport and industry. We’re looking forward to working with Freeport East and our partners to deliver greener freight along this important corridor. With large-scale clean energy investments we can drive demand and opportunities for greener logistics, using our central location to deliver widespread change.”
Will Morlidge, Chief Executive of D2N2 LEP and Co-Chair of East Midlands Hydrogen, said: “I wholeheartedly support this commitment from East Midlands Freeport and Freeport East. Accelerating hydrogen freight decarbonisation is one of the seven priorities for East Midlands Hydrogen and this agreement will play a key role in achieving it. We’ll continue to work closely with East Midlands Freeport and our other East Midlands Hydrogen partners to drive this important priority forward.”
Town Board launched to drive £20m investment in Chesterfield
Plans to invest almost £20m in Chesterfield over the next decade have taken a major step forward, with the launch of a new independent board which will oversee how and where the funding is spent.
Local business leader Dominic Staniforth has been appointed to chair the new Chesterfield Town Board – sitting alongside representatives from other local businesses, community and voluntary organisations, and the public sector, including representation from Chesterfield Borough Council.
It follows the Government’s ‘Long-Term Plan for Towns’ announcement in October last year, which named Chesterfield as one of 55 UK towns to benefit from the new funding initiative – which aims to give local communities a greater voice in shaping improvements across the town.
Board members have now held their first formal meeting where it was agreed to run a public consultation exercise in June, giving local people the chance to have their say on how the money should be invested.
In line with Government guidance, a representative of Chesterfield Borough Council sits on the board, and the authority will also act as the board’s accountable body. However, all decisions about how the £19.5m worth of endowment-style funding is invested will be made by the Chesterfield Town Board, in consultation with local people.
Dominic Staniforth is a partner at BHP LLP Chartered Accountants – which has a base at One Waterside Place – and has been an active part of Chesterfield’s business community for many years.
He said: “Chesterfield is already a great town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better – a place to live, work, invest and study – and this funding will further bolster our ability to deliver on that collective ambition.
“I am honoured to have been invited to become chair of the new Chesterfield Town Board and it’s fantastic that leaders from across the town, and the council, have already begun work to identify how and where this funding could make the greatest impact for local residents and businesses.
“Listening to the views of local people and understanding where they think this investment could make the biggest difference is at the heart of this work and we will be sharing more information about how to get involved in the coming weeks.”
Working closely with the council, the Board will now oversee the development of a long-term vision statement and three-year investment plan – to be developed following consultation with local people, and based on what they see as priority areas for investment. This must be submitted to the Government for approval later this summer.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of the council, said: “We have really strong and innovative business and community networks here in Chesterfield and this is again another great opportunity to bring people together – backed by millions of pounds worth of funding – to deliver projects which will make a real difference to the quality of people’s lives over the next 10 years.
“We’re delighted to welcome Dominic to the role of chair, as a local business leader with extensive experience of the area, and a shared passion and commitment to make the town of Chesterfield thrive for generations to come.”
In line with Government guidance, the funding must be spent across three key themes, which include: safety and security (to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour), high streets, heritage, and regeneration (making the place more attractive and accessible to residents, businesses, and visitors), transport and connectivity (improving access to the town centre, supporting greener modes of travel and enhancing public transport options).
Council receives approval of £15m regeneration fund
Bolsover District Council has received confirmation that its list of projects for the £15million Regeneration Funding awarded in the Autumn Statement has been approved.
The council submitted its schedule of schemes at the end of January 2024 in line with the government guidance and against tight timescales.
The funding is place-based for the whole of the District of Bolsover. When drawing up the list of schemes the council stipulated that the money should benefit the entire district and the projects put forward support this commitment.
The projects include improvements to the public realm around the district, enhancing shop fronts to help make the area more visually appealing to attract shoppers and visitors and the establishment of community and creative hubs.
Also included in the bid was the redevelopment of prominent buildings in Bolsover town to help create a thriving place people want to visit and work in.
Council Chief Executive, Karen Hanson said: “We had just eleven days from when we received the funding criteria to submitting the initial schemes, so we are delighted to have received confirmation that we have the go-ahead.
“We will now look to prioritise the schemes and ensure the money we have been allocated is well spent and benefits our communities.”
Figures released earlier this year indicate that since 2020 just over 10% of the money allocated from the Government’s Levelling Up agenda has been spent as local authorities are struggling to meet the deadlines. Something which Council Leader, Steve Fritchley was keen to avoid.
Councillor Steve Fritchley said: “Since the announcement was made in the autumn, I made it quite clear that we were going to spend the money in the District of Bolsover and not be sending any back.
“So, I want to thank all our officers who have worked tirelessly on this project to get it to this stage and over the line, sometimes in very difficult circumstances. The key to this now is delivering on what we have promised by March 2026, and that is something I know we will do.”
Rotherhill Developments makes director promotion
Midlands commercial property developer and asset manager, Rotherhill Developments, has promoted Ed Jeffrey to director.
In his new role as director at Rotherhill, Ed will continue to source and deliver commercial opportunities, working closely with agents, landowners and building owners directly to secure new developments and investments, as well as implementing asset management initiatives across Rotherhill’s existing portfolio to deliver returns for investors.
Additionally, he will be actively involved in the onboarding of new recruits to the business as the team continues to expand.
Ed Jeffrey says: “Over the last five years at Rotherhill, I have acquired and delivered a wide range of projects. The majority have focussed on repositioning existing assets, with and without income.
“They have involved back-to-frame and lighter touch refurbishments, changes of use and the release of land for delivering new build development, together with more typical investment asset management where tenants are in situ.”
Paul Bagshaw, owner and founder of Rotherhill Developments, says: “Ed’s promotion is a reflection of his hard work and dedication over the last five years. He has a strong track record of success.
“Since joining Rotherhill, he has overseen the delivery of a number of successful projects from acquisition to exit and continues to help expand our pipeline, with the business on track to acquire 5 new projects in the first half of 2024.
“We are actively engaged in plans to grow the company in terms of recruitment, increasing the pipeline activity and accelerating deals, with Ed’s promotion part of the overall business strategy.”
Mortgage Advice Bureau acquires remaining shareholding of First Mortgage Direct
Derby-based Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) has acquired the remaining 20% shareholding of First Mortgage Direct for £9.35m from Managing Director Ian McGrail.
It follows the firm’s acquisition of 80% of First Mortgage in 2019.First Mortgage made a profit before tax of £5.4 million in the year ended 31 December 2023, and had net assets of £9.3 million as at 31 December 2023. Ian McGrail will continue to be Managing Director of First Mortgage.
Ben Thompson, Deputy CEO, MAB, said: “Acquiring an 80% shareholding in First Mortgage in 2019 was strategically important to MAB at the time, enabling us to grow our expertise in specific market specialisms such as new build, and accelerate our overall market share as a Group.
“Despite the various challenges we all faced together over the last five years, the business has grown substantially in size and in profitability and has become even more important to MAB. We are therefore really pleased to have now acquired the final 20% shareholding from Ian McGrail.
“Importantly, we are delighted that Ian has decided to commit to stay on as Managing Director and take First Mortgage further over the coming years, having done such an excellent job of the last five, and indeed the years prior to that.”
Dr. Martens targeting savings of up to £25m following dip in revenue and profit
Dr. Martens has revealed a cost action plan targeting savings of £20m to £25m after a year of decreased revenue and profit.
According to preliminary results for the year ended 31 March 2024, revenue was down 12% to £877.1m at the Northamptonshire shoe icon, while pre-tax profits dropped to £97.2m from £170.1m in the year prior. It follows a weak performance in the USA.
Kenny Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our FY24 results were as expected and reflect continued weak USA consumer demand. This particularly impacted our USA wholesale business and offset our Group DTC performance, where pairs grew by 7%.
“We have achieved robust performances in EMEA and APAC, and our supply chain strategy continues to deliver good savings. We are clear that we need to drive demand in the USA to return to growth in FY26 onwards and are executing a detailed plan to achieve this, with refocused and increased USA marketing investment in the year ahead.
“We are also announcing a cost action plan across the Group, targeting savings of £20m to £25m. I am confident that the actions we are taking as we enter this year of transition will put us in good shape for the years ahead.”
Returning sponsor Mather Jamie backs Architects of the Year at East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Mather Jamie has returned to sponsor the East Midlands Bricks Awards for another year, backing the Architects of the Year category for the 2024 event.
The well established and specialist land development and property consultancy, based in Loughborough, prides itself on providing a comprehensive range of director-led advisory services to landowners, occupiers, developers and investors nationwide. One of the East Midlands’ leading commercial and agricultural surveyors and valuers, Mather Jamie’s principal services include strategic land development advice, acting as rural estate managers and letting agents, and commercial property agents.
Speaking with Business Link, Amy Biddell, director at Mather Jamie, said: “This is Mather Jamie’s second year of sponsoring the Bricks Awards. The event is a great way to promote our services to an elite audience of landowners, property developers and building contractors. It’s great to be able to celebrate in a room full of like mind businesses who share a passion for the East Midlands construction sector.”
Offering advice to those entering Mather Jamie’s sponsored category, Amy added: “For architects looking to submit an application, we will be looking for them to demonstrate an understanding of planning regulations so that development meets approval. Sustainability and biodiversity are hot keywords within the industry, so we will be looking for entries to showcase an innovative approach to sustainable working practices, which meet development briefs.
“Other points to consider include;
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. 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.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Offering advice to those entering Mather Jamie’s sponsored category, Amy added: “For architects looking to submit an application, we will be looking for them to demonstrate an understanding of planning regulations so that development meets approval. Sustainability and biodiversity are hot keywords within the industry, so we will be looking for entries to showcase an innovative approach to sustainable working practices, which meet development briefs.
“Other points to consider include;
- Design ethos that shows sympathy to local aesthetics
- Consideration for ecology/environment
- Ease of construction without too many modifications to design or materials
- Demonstrate client satisfaction
- Schemes that also benefit the local community.”
Award categories include:
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. 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.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Local lawyers to fund raise for SV2 charity
Derby and District Law Society (DDLS) has chosen to support SV2 with fund raising over the next 12 months.
SV2 is a Derbyshire charity that supports anyone who has experienced sexual abuse and was chosen as DDLS’s charity of the year by the incoming president Tina Attenborough.
Mrs Attenborough explained: “I was keen that we supported a charity that helped a wide range of people and age groups in the county during my year as president.
“SV2 perfectly fitted that brief as the charity provides a wide range of services to support victims and survivors of sexual abuse regardless of their age, gender, when the offence took place or whether they have reported the crime to police or not.
“We have a busy programme of events throughout the year – culminating in our annual awards dinner to be held in March 2025 – so we hope to be donating a good amount of money to the charity at the end of the 12 months.”
SV2 CEO Rachel Morris added: “We work closely with a wide range of fellow professionals, including members of DDLS, as part of our support for survivors through the criminal justice system when perpetrators are prosecuted.
“Having the opportunity to further raise awareness amongst lawyers of the widespread impact of sexual abuse and violence on children, women, men and their families across the county through our association with DDLS is therefore extremely welcome.
“We are very grateful that they have chosen us as their charity of the year which will enable us to provide the much-needed support for survivors in Derbyshire and help them to rebuild their lives.”
SV2 have supported 1536 children, young people and adults between March 2023 and March 2024 through a range of services including through the helpline, ISVA support through the criminal justice system, counselling and therapy.
The charity also supports the wider families and works to prevent and raise awareness of rape and sexual abuse and their effects through training and education programmes across the county.
EMEC joins forces with Inspired Villages to embrace biodiversity net gain
Nottingham-based East Midlands Environmental Consultants (EMEC) has been enlisted by retirement developer and operator, Inspired Villages, to conduct biodiversity net gain (BNG) calculations and offer recommendations on best practice.
Established in 2017, Inspired Villages currently operates nine communities nationwide and has head offices in Edwalton Business Park, Nottingham.
Dedicated to environmental sustainability and social impact, Inspired Villages has committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon in unregulated energy across all its villages by 2030. Demonstrating this commitment, all projects initiated since 2022 underwent biodiversity Net Gain assessments, positioning the company favourably for the mandatory BNG legislation changes implemented in February 2024.
To support Inspired Villages in their environmental objectives, EMEC has been engaged to provide Baseline Biodiversity Net Gain calculations, assessing habitat units across their sites and suggesting improvements to enhance biodiversity.
The recommendations made have been tailored to each village dependant on the habitats present and their current condition and will include the planting of native species and managing habitats in such a way to enhance biodiversity. Other recommendations unrelated to BNG but that will still enhance biodiversity on the villages have also been recommended, these include the installation of bat and bird boxes and insect hotels.
Speaking on behalf of Inspired Villages, James Wilcox, Head of Sustainability, said: “Our pursuit of Net Zero is closely tied to the natural world and biodiversity is crucial for residents’ health and wellbeing.
“By aiming to be ‘nature positive by 2030,’ we strive to rejuvenate ecosystems rather than witness their decline. With EMEC’s assistance, we’re committed to ensuring our new developments create more valuable natural spaces than they did previously.”
Jake Hill, Ecologist at EMEC, said: “Collaborating with Inspired Villages on this project has been extremely rewarding. Enhancing biodiversity not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for village residents.”
Planning committee gives green light to Derby food market scheme
Derby City Council planning committee members have given the green light to a proposal which will create a food and beverage offer in one of the city’s regeneration areas.
Burton Abbey Developments is looking to create an outdoor artisan food and beverage market – similar to those seen in London and Manchester – on an empty plot of land in St Peter’s Churchyard.
The proposals had been refused twice and council officers were proposing a third refusal to the committee. Now, however, the plans have been approved.
The application received strong backing from the city’s business community – including Marketing Derby and the Derby Economic Development Advisory Committee – which submitted letters of support.
John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby, said: “We back this application, it’s exactly what the area needs. The report describes the site as ‘open, undeveloped space, vegetation and amenity which contributes to the verdant value of the street scene’.
“In truth, it is derelict and in desperate need of some TLC which this proposal brings. The Heritage Impact Assessment actually states the scheme would ‘enhance the conservation area’ due to the investment it brings.
“The proposal fits perfectly with Derby City Council’s ambition to create a vibrant city centre by regenerating such sites and this amenity will help attract more visitors.
“It’s exactly the sort of thing Derby is crying out for and the applicant has shown considerable patience and willingness in seeking planning for over three years.”
Known as The Yard Derby, the revised scheme involves creating 10 retail units arranged in an ‘L-shaped’ configuration along the southern and western edges of the site, situated away from the Grade II*-listed St. Peter’s Church and the Grade II*-listed Old Grammar School.
The plans incorporate a seating area with a capacity for up to 100 people.
One key aspect of the proposal and location involves the developer’s plan to create a sympathetic entrance through the historic 19th-century wall bordering the site.
The scheme’s backers included respected heritage architects Lathams as well as historian Maxwell Craven, both of whom have carried out detailed analysis of the site.
Nottingham investment management firm sold following appointment of administrators
Nottingham-based Intelligent Money Limited’s (IML) business and assets have been acquired by Quai Administration Services Limited, a specialist platform in pension, savings and investment administration services, via a pre-pack transaction.
It comes after Richard Heis and Ed Boyle from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators to IML on 28 May 2024.
All products and approximately c.£1.2 billion of assets under investment have been transferred to Quai’s regulated business, Quai Investment Services Limited, as part of this transaction. In addition, IML’s 15 employees have transferred to Quai.
Separately, IML’s 10,500 qualifying workplace pension scheme (QWPS) clients were purchased by Digital Wealth Systems Limited (Digi), a provider of workplace pensions to both employers and employees. These schemes will be operated by Quai.
IML is a UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Authorised and Regulated product provider. It provides a range of regulated products including SIPPs, ISAs and GIAs, together with the technology, administration and technical expertise for c.20,000 customers, with total assets under management equating to c.£1.4 billion.
The company had recently experienced a number of complaints made to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) which brought rise to compensation claims at a level the company was unable to meet. As a result of these challenges and potential financial liabilities, the directors of the company resolved to place the company into administration.
Richard Heis, Managing Director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “We are pleased to have concluded these transactions which safeguard the interests of customers and which secure the long-term future of the business under new ownership.
“We will continue to support the orderly and seamless transfer of all assets to the respective purchasers, who are now the new provider, operator and administrator of IML’s products, ultimately ensuring it remains business as usual for the company’s circa 20,000 clients.”
Interpath Advisory were advised by Gateley in respect of the transaction.
Hartington Business Park fully let
Devonshire Property Group has reached full occupancy at its Hartington Business Park scheme in Staveley.
Capital Angling Limited, an existing tenant at the site, has agreed to take on a further 2,465 sq ft to support its expanding e-commerce operations.
The business, which provides a wide range of fishing tackle and equipment, has agreed a five-year lease on a second unit at site, taking its footprint at Hartington Business Park up to 7,364 sq ft.
Adam Mayfield, Property Development Manager at Devonshire Property Group, said: “Reaching fully let status at Hartington Business Park is indicative of the high level of demand for industrial warehousing in Derbyshire.
“We are really pleased to be able to help support Capital Angling’s expansion on site and to provide them with a platform to continue to grow their business.
“The strong tenant confidence in us and the scheme is a testament to our continued investment in the area and our commitment to ensuring that the unit sizes & specifications suit a broad range of occupiers and exceed energy efficiency standards.”
Jamie Jackson, Director at Capital Angling Limited, said: “Hartington Business Park has proved to be an ideal location to grow our business, particularly given its proximity to both our customer base as well as some of their favourite fishing spots.
“Our success, and the support we’ve had from Devonshire Property Group, has been key to us being able to expand into our second unit at the site.”
Streets Chartered Accountants covers property finance, charitable support, restaurant cash flow and more in new news roundup
Streets Chartered Accountants covers property finance, charitable support, restaurant cash flow, and more in its latest monthly news roundup.
This month’s office focus
In the first of a series of videos to promote Streets’ growing number of offices and their teams, Nathan Bignell who heads up the Banbury office shares his insight into the local business community, the clients they look after and the services they provide. Watch Now.
Podcast: There is so much more to the Fringe 24…
In this Brighton Fringe 2024 special episode of The Streets Sessions, Streets talk to Duncan Lustig-Prean, Chair of Brighton Fringe, about this year’s festival and the highlights, along with its importance for the entertainment industry and the wider community.
Streets also look at the business side of running the festival and the support provided by Streets through its Brighton based media and entertainment practice Mark Carr & Co. Listen Now.
Property finance – unlocking opportunities with confidence and support
Exploring, navigating and understanding the complex landscape of property finance options can not only be time consuming, but hard to understand with the diverse range of financing options that are available in the market.
It is essential from the outset for business owners to carefully evaluate their financing and find the right finance option for success and making informed decisions within the business. Read More.
Podcast: It’s more than an Open Road when it comes to charitable support…
This episode of The Streets Sessions features Claire Beacham, a regional manager with Open Road – a drug and alcohol recovery charity in Essex and the Medway, which is Streets Whittles, Streets’ Colchester practice’s, nominated charity.
In conversation with Claire, Streets not only find out more about Open Road’s important work, especially around wellbeing in the workplace, but also what it means to them to work with and to have the support of businesses, in particular Streets Whittles. Listen Now.
Boost your restaurant’s cash flow with these top tips!
Maintaining a healthy cash flow is crucial for the success of any restaurant. Here are five key strategies to get you started. Read More.
SmartMoney
SmartMoney is the bi-monthly magazine from Streets Financial Consulting Ltd, Streets’ independent financial planning arm, full of news and helpful information on personal financial planning. Download Now.
Nottinghamshire hotel sold to overseas buyer
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has completed the sale of a hotel in Nottinghamshire.
Forest Lodge Hotel is a popular hotel, pub and restaurant, centrally located in the village of Edwinstowe. Forest Lodge was under the same ownership for 17 years and has now been bought by an overseas purchaser.
David Lee, Regional Director at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, alongside that of Hadley Park House in Telford to a local businessman, says: “We were pleased to complete our latest 2 hotel deals in the Midlands region.
“The market for all types of hotels remains buoyant, we would like to wish both owners success in their new ventures.”
Professional services group makes eleven promotions in Nottingham
Professional services group Gateley has promoted eleven people in its Nottingham office.
Charlie Jakeman has been promoted to partner within the construction team, having joined Gateley as a legal director in 2021, while Tertia Werry and Janine Gibbs have been promoted to legal director in the real estate and private client teams respectively.
Those promoted to senior associate are Nathan Allaway from the real estate team, Rebecca Sells from the planning team, Rachael Mitchison from the corporate team, Alicia Bradburn from the banking team and Katherine Wright from Adamson Jones, the dedicated patent and trademark practice.
Additionally, three of the Nottingham team have been promoted to associate; Jaclyn Nelson and Catherine Everington who are both from the construction team, and Shiv Nand from the banking team.
Andrew Macmillan, partner and head of Gateley’s Nottingham office, said: “I’m extremely proud to see so many of our talented employees in Nottingham achieve promotions this year. They have all shown a great level of commitment to achieving outstanding results for our clients and deservedly have been rewarded for their work.
“These promotions highlight Gateley’s continued commitment to the development of our employees and having so many promotions in our Nottingham team shows just how well our city is doing at attracting and retaining top talent.”
Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club joins Leicestershire Business Voice as new board member
Leicestershire Business Voice (LBV), the voice for local businesses, has appointed Sean Jarvis as its newest board member. Sean is Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club and joins nine other members on the LBV board.
Sean brings over 30 years’ experience in business and sports administration to his new role. He and the LBV board are responsible for offering an independent and collective voice to represent the local business community through engagements with other key local stakeholders, the public sector and regional bodies. It also provides members with a regular programme of business-themed events and debates.
Sean has been Chief Executive of Leicestershire County Cricket Club since June 2020, where he is responsible for delivering the strategic plan for the club.
Prior to this role, Sean was a Director of Huddersfield Town Football Club and Trustee of the Town Foundation, the official charity of Huddersfield Town FC. He was also a Director of Huddersfield Canalside, the training ground for Huddersfield Town FC and Chairman of Place To Make It, a group of local business owners who promoted Huddersfield.
Sean was the Owner/Marketing Director of Oldham Athletic FC and started his career as a Director of GSM, a marketing agency in Leeds, with a focus on sports clients.
Commenting on his new role, Sean Jarvis said: “I was born and bred in Leicester and although I’ve worked away from the city for much of my career, my connection to Leicestershire is very important to me, so I’m happy to give back through my new role with LBV.
“I’m keen to develop the brand of Leicester and Leicestershire, nationally and internationally, and build on the Cricket Club’s position as part of the fabric of the local business community.
“LBV is well established and respected, and I see it as a primary vehicle to help local businesses to continue to improve. I’m looking forward to helping the board with its collaborations with, and lobbying of, local and regional influential stakeholder organisations.
“I’m particularly keen to see work around infrastructure improvements, developing links between education and business, growing international investment and of course, celebrating the sporting heritage of the city!”
Robin Pointon, Chair of LBV, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Sean to the board of LBV. We’re committed to representing and being a voice for a broad cross-section of businesses in the city and county. Sean’s role at the Cricket Club, his background, vision and ideas will provide us with a new perspective to add to our support for the local business community.”
