New wind turbine approved to support farm diversification in Nottinghamshire

April Lara
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New wind turbine approved to support farm diversification in Nottinghamshire

A new wind turbine installation at New Holbeck Farm in Halam, Nottinghamshire, has received planning approval following a Section 73 application to revise an earlier consent. The farm will replace its storm-damaged, non-operational two-blade turbine with a Vestas V47 model featuring a three-blade design and a 68.5-metre tip height.

The project forms part of Sharman Farming Ltd’s strategy to decarbonise energy usage and strengthen the long-term viability of its agricultural operations through renewable energy integration. The updated turbine model is tailored for rural use, reflecting a broader push in the UK toward decentralised clean energy solutions amid ongoing energy supply challenges.

Technical assessments, including noise and radar impact studies, confirmed the site’s suitability for the replacement infrastructure. Work on installing the new turbine is scheduled to begin this summer, and energy production is expected to commence in the autumn.

BNPL regulation targets clearer standards and reduced risk for consumers

April Lara
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BNPL regulation targets clearer standards and reduced risk for consumers

The UK government has confirmed new buy now, pay later (BNPL) lenders regulations, mandating affordability checks and clearer consumer protections. The move addresses growing concerns around unregulated short-term credit usage, which has surged to 11 million users nationwide.

The updated legislation, set to take effect in 2025, requires BNPL firms to perform upfront affordability assessments, speed up refund processing, and give customers access to complaint resolution through the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) reports a marked increase in BNPL use, particularly among women aged 25–34 and lone parents. Around 40% of the latter demographic now rely on the service. Despite its convenience, industry watchdogs and consumer groups have raised alarms about the ease shoppers can incur unsustainable debt through these platforms.

BNPL providers operating in the UK will be subject to consistent standards aligned with other credit products. This could affect customer onboarding flows, lending algorithms, and risk management protocols.

The rules also allow firms to differentiate on transparency and consumer trust, as regulatory certainty may bolster investor confidence and long-term scalability in the sector.

The announcement comes amid a broader government effort to rein in emerging forms of consumer credit and provide stronger regulatory oversight for fast-growing fintech solutions.

Glamping plan rejected over noise and visibility concerns

April Lara
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Glamping plan rejected over noise and visibility concerns

Derbyshire Dales District Council has rejected plans to expand a Derbyshire campsite with four glamping pods, citing concerns over noise, landscape impact, and residential amenity.

The proposal, submitted by a local farming family operating the Racecourse Retreat campsite near Wirksworth, aimed to diversify income through rural tourism. However, council planning officers and elected members concluded the site’s elevated location, overlooking nearby homes, made it unsuitable for additional development, despite its status as a lawful camping site.

The application followed a previously rejected bid in 2022 for six pods on the same land. This revised plan proposed partially embedding two pods into the hillside and recessing the other two to minimise visibility. Supporting statements highlighted benefits such as mental health tourism, bike hire facilities, and contributions to the local economy through increased footfall. The applicants also noted the availability of on-demand transport services to mitigate concerns over the site’s rural location.

Despite these measures, councillors expressed unease about potential noise from outdoor activities like BBQs and hot tub use, light pollution, and the visual intrusion on the natural landscape. Several local residents objected on similar grounds, with one describing the scheme as an expansion of caravan operations incompatible with the area’s tranquil character.

While councillors acknowledged the wider pressures on farming and the need for diversification, they ultimately found the application lacked sufficient detail and presented enforcement challenges. There were also broader concerns about the cumulative effect of tourism-related developments across the countryside.

The council encouraged the applicant to return with a more robust and context-sensitive business case.

Housebuilder invests £80m into regeneration of forgotten Leicester waterways

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Housebuilder invests £80m into regeneration of forgotten Leicester waterways
Housebuilder, Keepmoat, is investing more than £80m into a regeneration scheme that will help transform disused and neglected industrial buildings near Leicester’s waterways. Now named Waterside, in honour of its picturesque proximity to the Grand Union Canal and River Soar, the scheme is being delivered in partnership with Leicester City Council to create new, energy-efficient homes that will replace 17 acres of brownfield land. Previously home to abandoned textile factories, the housebuilder’s investment has transformed the waterways from Wolsey Island to the city centre. The wider regeneration project has also delivered flood protection measures, enhancements to biodiversity and improved access to the canal and river for local people. The transformation is set to be complete by the end of 2026, when Waterside will offer a community of 350 homes nestled on the banks of the canal. Keepmoat has also worked with the local authority to improve the walking and cycling routes to Leicester city centre. As the development approaches the final phases of the regeneration, Keepmoat has shifted its focus to deliver a neighbourhood in Frog Island to meet the needs of the local community. Adam Sharpe, regional managing director at Keepmoat, East Midlands, said: “We’re thrilled to be continuing delivery under our strategic partnership model to unlock this vibrant brownfield site. “At Keepmoat we’re proud to transform and breathe new life into areas in need of regeneration. By delivering quality, sustainable homes in Leicester, we’re able to support a vibrant new community in an area people want to live – close to employment hubs and amenities.” City mayor Peter Soulsby added: “Leicester’s Waterside has for a long time had immense potential for regeneration. Bringing that redevelopment forward for the benefit of the city has been a long-held ambition of mine. “These new homes are a key part of that and have been a vital catalyst for the surrounding Waterside developments. We’ve worked closely with Keepmoat as our development partners to help transform Waterside into a vibrant, attractive neighbourhood in which to live and work.”

Strong start for NK Motors’ new Long Eaton showroom

April Lara
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Strong start for NK Motors’ new Long Eaton showroom

NK Motors’ newly launched used car showroom in Long Eaton has posted a strong performance in its first month of trading, recording 82 customer enquiries and converting 43% of them into sales. A total of 36 vehicles were sold from an average on-site stock of 27 cars.

The Long Eaton location, opened in April, is NK Motors’ third site, joining its flagship Kia dealership in Derby and another sales centre in Nottingham. The business, which employs 80 staff and posted £80 million in revenue for 2024, is targeting £100 million in turnover for 2025. It also leases more than 1,000 fleet vehicles to corporate clients annually.

The group invested £100,000 refurbishing the Long Eaton premises, which it originally owned before leasing it out to another motor retailer in 2014. The site became available again after the previous tenant entered administration.

The new operation is self-contained, managing all its back-office functions, including finance, marketing and vehicle photography, on site. It has a showroom capacity for 80 vehicles, with plans to expand via an adjacent 40-car overflow site also owned by the group. Vehicles on offer range in value from £5,000 to £50,000.

Seven new roles were created with the site’s reopening, attracting over 500 applications. A further four hires are expected in the coming months. The launch also generated significant online engagement, including 25,000 Instagram hits and 18 five-star customer reviews.

Affordable housing partnership to continue in Towcester

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Affordable housing partnership to continue in Towcester
More affordable housing is to be delivered in Towcester as part of Amplius’ ongoing partnership with Persimmon Homes Midlands. The businesses are extending their relationship to build more affordable homes at The Furlongs in the town. So far, the agreement has seen 123 affordable homes provided since 2021, with at least another 12 guaranteed to be built. The one, two, three and four bedroom homes, which include some accessible bungalows, have been made available for affordable rent, social rent and Shared Ownership. Marcus Keys, chief development and commercial officer, Amplius, said: “By working closely with Persimmon Homes Midlands, we’re providing much-needed affordable housing in Towcester. “These homes give local people the chance to get on the housing ladder and to have a house they’re proud to call home. “We’re really pleased with the progress being made by the Persimmon team and we’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with them to deliver even more affordable homes.” David Ablett, construction director at Persimmon Homes Midlands, added: “Handing over a portion of our homes at Towcester is the latest example of our successful partnership with Amplius, which is delivering much-needed new homes for local families. “We’re continuing to work hard to prioritise quality and affordability for all our customers. “We’ll continue to work closely with our local partners to ensure our investment makes a positive difference to communities across the region.”

Gold seen as safe haven amid tax hikes and market volatility

April Lara
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Gold seen as safe haven amid tax hikes and market volatility

A recent survey of UK retail investors indicates that gold is now the most favoured asset class for the next 12 months, with 58% of respondents expecting its value to increase. This marks a notable shift in investor sentiment as geopolitical and economic uncertainties persist.

The findings, published by Charles Schwab UK, show that confidence in gold has overtaken traditional indices such as the FTSE 100, which only 39% of investors expect to rise. Similarly, 40% are optimistic about the Dow Jones and 38% about the Nasdaq.

This movement towards gold comes amid growing concerns about tariff policy and the recent hike in capital gains tax, which exempts physical gold investments. The Royal Mint has reported increased demand for physical gold assets like coins and bars.

Younger investors are particularly active in this trend, with 31% increasing exposure to precious metal stocks in the past quarter. Overall, 73% of investors view mining and precious metals companies as sound investment opportunities. This figure is even higher among millennials at 79%, reflecting a generational leaning towards assets perceived as inflation-resistant and less exposed to political risk.

By comparison, just 70% of investors view AI stocks as strong investments, highlighting a broader pivot toward defensive positions in portfolios.

“Good progress” at Topps Tiles as sales and profit rise

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“Good progress” at Topps Tiles as sales and profit rise

Topps Tiles, the Leicester-based tile specialist, has made “good progress” across key growth areas in its half year results, focused on modernising the trade digital experience, expanding into new coverings categories, business-to-business sales, and the Pro Tiler Tools and Tile Warehouse businesses.

According to unaudited consolidated interim financial results for the 26 weeks ended 29 March 2025, adjusted sales (excluding the financial impact of the firm’s acquisition of CTD) increased by 4.1% to £127.8 million, with an improving trend across the first and second quarters.

Adjusted profit before tax, meanwhile, was up 3.2% at £3.2 million. Topps Tiles has also hailed a strong start to the second half, with adjusted sales in the first seven weeks up 9.5% year-on-year.

Rob Parker, Chief Executive, said: “I am pleased with the progress we have made over the first half, which has included an improving sales trend, offsetting the majority of our inflationary cost pressures, and continuing to deliver our strategy; while also delivering a small increase in underlying profitability.

“We have recently announced the conclusion of the CMA investigation into our acquisition of CTD, which will form a major part of the business-to-business element of our growth strategy moving forwards.

“As we look forward to the second half, current trading shows a strong improvement in both our market leading omni-channel business, Topps Tiles, and also in the newer parts of the Group; and we have a clear plan to move CTD into profitability by the final quarter of our financial year and into growth beyond that.

“As a result, we expect our full year profits to show a meaningful improvement over the prior year.”

Midlands firms embrace growing popularity of Employee Ownership Trusts

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Midlands firms embrace growing popularity of Employee Ownership Trusts
Grant Thornton UK Advisory & Tax LLP, the business and financial advisory firm, is witnessing a surge in interest from Midlands-based companies exploring Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs). Introduced by the UK government in 2014 to promote employee ownership, EOTs are a specific type of Employee Benefit Trust that acquires shares in a company and holds them on behalf of the employees. EOTs gained significant traction following regulatory changes in 2020. According to the Employee Ownership Association, employee-owned businesses are now growing at an average rate of 23% annually – an upward trend reflected in Grant Thornton’s experience. “There has always been demand for succession planning, but Employee Ownership Trusts are attracting a lot of interest and can be a valuable option for businesses in our region,” said Tara Walker, an associate tax director who is focused on equity-based employee rewards at Grant Thornton in the Midlands. “By design, the EOT encourages long term employee ownership, incentivised by a sale free from capital gains tax and up to £3,600 per year tax free for employees in qualifying bonus payments. “EOTs allow business owners to pass on their legacy while fostering a culture of shared success among employees. Studies also show that employee-owned businesses often experience higher levels of motivation, productivity, and retention, leading to long-term success. “Tax efficiency is understandably of great interest to business owners and the potential for capital gains tax exemptions makes EOTs an attractive financial option for people seeking an exit strategy.” While HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) does not release official figures on EOT formations, industry data highlights their accelerating adoption. By the end of 2023, over 1,650 UK businesses had transitioned to employee ownership, with 542 making the shift in 2023 alone. Monique Beaulieu, partner in tax and reward advisory services at Grant Thornton UK, said: “Interest in employee-owned businesses continues to grow across all sectors and regions. Last year’s consultation and the Autumn 2024 budget adjustments have not dampened enthusiasm for EOTs as a viable succession planning tool, particularly among business owners in the Midlands.”

DSP (Interiors) shortlisted for national award

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DSP (Interiors) shortlisted for national award
A design, refurbishment and fit-out specialist has been shortlisted for a prestigious industry award for its work transforming a 16,000 sq ft empty building shell into a large bespoke office and warehouse facility. Derby-based DSP (Interiors) has been named one of three finalists in the Interior Fit Out Under £1m category of the FIS Contractors Awards which celebrate outstanding design and craftsmanship. The company was nominated for its work at AMS Hayley Derby, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of engineering components and consumables, based at Ivygrove Development’s Dunstall Park, off Ascot Drive. Its management team tasked DSP (Interiors) to deliver a new facility that would accommodate all aspects of the company’s operations – from office space to warehouse and logistics. The multi-faceted project turned an empty shell into a modern, high-quality office and logistics hub. The finished space includes a spacious office area with meeting rooms, breakout zones, welfare facilities and design elements like biophilic graphic walls and acoustic tiles and slat walls to elevate the space. Louisa Priestley, managing director at DSP (Interiors), said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been shortlisted for this national award. “The AMS Hayley Derby project was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in creating high-performance work environments. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and to the collaborative approach we shared with the client throughout the project.” Following the success of the Derby project, DSP has been working on another turnkey project for AMS Hayley at its Burton branch which is set to complete soon. Simon Lister, director at AMS Hayley Ltd, said: “DSP Interiors listened carefully to our brief and have created a bespoke office and warehouse facility that not only reflects our brand identity but also provides a functional and inspiring work environment for our employees.”

Gateley RJA awarded place on EN:Procure consultancy framework

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Gateley RJA awarded place on EN:Procure consultancy framework
Gateley RJA, the Leicester-headquartered specialist quantity surveying, employer’s agent, project management and clerk of works arm of professional services group, Gateley, has been awarded a place on EN:Procure’s construction consultancy services framework. EN:Procure, the regional procurement arm of social housing consortium Efficiency North, has appointed 106 successful bidders to its latest ‘Gen-4’ version of the construction consultancy services framework. With an estimated total value of £103m, the framework covers a broad range of speciality services for social housing, public sector and commercial buildings. The four-year appointment will see Gateley RJA deliver employer’s agent, project management, quantity surveying, cost management, clerk of works, site supervision and stock condition surveying services on sites across the UK, including the North West, Yorkshire and Humber and the East Midlands. Emma Mottram, director of operations for EN:Procure, said: “The engagement we’ve had on this latest round of tenders has been incredibly high and it’s fantastic to now be able to announce 106 consultants, both new and returning, to the framework. “We wanted to give the opportunity to as many businesses as possible and with such a high standard of tender the selection process was a challenge. Those appointed should be incredibly proud. “We always aim to champion SMEs, which was once again a focus for this framework. It’s brilliant to have such impressive SMEs appointed and we look forward to working with them, alongside the other expert consultants, to deliver outstanding consultancy services and achieve robust ESG targets.” Steven Collin, managing director at Gateley RJA, said: “We are proud to be awarded a place on the EN:Procure framework which will see us providing services to support with driving value and excellence in social housing and public sector projects across the country. “This appointment is testament to the expertise and commitment of our hard-working team to deliver high-quality consultancy services across the built environment sector.”

“A fantastic celebration of the region’s construction and property sectors” – EMEC joins the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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“A fantastic celebration of the region’s construction and property sectors” – EMEC joins the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
Environmental consultancy EMEC has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, backing ‘Contractor of the Year’. A returning sponsor, EMEC is a one stop shop for specialist ecology, land management and arboriculture services. A wholly owned subsidiary of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, all profits are gift aided to the Trust to support nature conservation. Based in the heart of the East Midlands, EMEC operates for its clients throughout the UK. It serves developers, planners, architects, power and extraction industries, utility companies, local authorities, government agencies and private individuals. Its varied portfolio of work ranges from major national research contracts and large-scale ecological impact assessments for housing and industry, through to management planning for nature reserves, bat surveys of barns and churches and habitat surveys of small-scale developments. Dr Ed Tripp, Consultancy Director at EMEC, said: “We’re proud to once again sponsor the ‘Contractor of the Year’ category at the Bricks Awards, which continues to be a fantastic celebration of the region’s construction and property sectors. “Last year’s event was a brilliant showcase of talent, innovation and collaboration, and we thoroughly enjoyed connecting with so many like-minded professionals who are helping shape the future of our built environment.
Ed Tripp of EMEC (right) hands over the award for Contractor of the Year to Darren Chapman of Clegg Contruction at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
“At EMEC, we work closely with contractors across a wide range of projects, so it’s a real pleasure to help shine a spotlight on those delivering excellence on site. As an environmental consultancy, we believe it’s vital for contractors to take a responsible and forward-thinking approach to sustainability, and this year’s winner will be someone who goes above and beyond to embrace biodiversity within their developments. “We’re looking forward to another inspiring evening and encourage all within the industry to get their nominations in—it’s a great opportunity to recognise hard work, dedication and impact across the industry.” The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes. Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, bolster morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here.

Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries. Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                

To be held at:

With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.

EU reset a step forward in improving trade says East Midlands Chamber

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EU reset a step forward in improving trade says East Midlands Chamber
East Midlands Chamber has welcomed the outcomes of the UK and EU ‘reset’ talks, saying they will help ease challenges businesses have faced since Brexit. Outcomes from the summit included:
  • Routine checks on plant and animal products removed
  • Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement on food and drink import and export
  • Closer cooperation on emissions
  • British steel exports protected from EU tariffs
  • eGates at borders open to British passport holders
East Midlands Chamber head of international trade Lucy Granger said: “After such a prolonged and frustrating time for firms importing or exporting goods with the EU, where moving even small amounts of goods has been prohibitively expensive and reams of unnecessary paperwork time consuming, these agreements are a welcome step forward and pave the way for further improvements. “Getting agreement and removing most routine checks on animal and plant products will make a big difference to businesses trading with the EU, as will the sanitary and phytosanitary deal – that enables everything from burgers to sausages to be shipped without costs getting in the way. “There’s still more that can be achieved – a return to the Pan Euro Mediterranean Convention would mean alignment on rules for components and raw materials, taking out another cost and an exemption on fiscal representation on VAT in the EU would remove another hurdle for businesses, so it’s essential the government build on this first stage of talks.”

New pre-construction director appointed at Clegg Construction

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New pre-construction director appointed at Clegg Construction
Contractor Clegg Construction has appointed Christian White as pre-construction director. He brings with him more than 30 years of industry experience, having worked at a number of high-profile regional construction companies in the past. Working with the in-house pre-construction team at Clegg Construction, Christian will be responsible for delivering high-quality, client-focused solutions – ensuring that projects are thoroughly planned and structured to meet client expectations and regulatory requirements. He will also be responsible for implementing the company’s procurement objectives and for the strategic management of Clegg Construction’s framework appointments. Clegg Construction MD Michael Sims said: “I am pleased to welcome Christian as pre-construction director, helping us to develop comprehensive project strategies which set the groundwork for successful project execution. His experience and expertise will strengthen our team, building on the reputation that Clegg Construction has earned over many years. “Christian will work closely with our clients across the private and public sectors to understand their needs and help us lay the foundations for the continued delivery of successful construction developments.” He will be based at the headquarters of Clegg Construction in High Pavement, Nottingham. Christian said: “I am excited to be joining Clegg Construction at a time when the order book is flourishing, with interesting projects currently under way and a number of new schemes in the pipeline. I look forward to building on this, and to meeting existing and new clients as we continue to work with organisations across a range of sectors including healthcare, education and residential.” Christian’s remit will cover Clegg Construction operations across the Midlands, East Anglia, and Yorkshire, working on the delivery of public and private sector projects.

East Midlands offers most efficient conditions for UK tradespeople

April Lara
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East Midlands offers most efficient conditions for UK tradespeople

New data highlights the East Midlands as the most favourable UK region for tradespeople regarding working hours, commute lengths, and mental health outcomes. The findings come from a report by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles that analysed regional variations in working life for trades professionals.

Tradespeople in the East Midlands work fewer hours on average, 9.03 per day, compared to the national average of 9.25 hours. In contrast, those in the West Midlands work 9.81 hours daily. This adds up to a significant difference over a working week, giving East Midlands professionals more personal time or increased availability for additional jobs.

Commute distances also varied sharply. The East Midlands reported the lowest average daily mileage at 67.95 miles, well below the UK average of 88.37 miles. Tradespeople in London and the North West drove more than 100 miles a day, meaning East Midlands workers potentially save over 20 miles daily, equivalent to 82 hours annually.

This efficiency appears to have mental health benefits. Workers in the East Midlands lost just 2.84 days due to mental health challenges in 2024, undercutting the national average of 3.58 days. Wales recorded the highest at 5.75 days lost.

Key stress factors across the UK included long hours, poor work-life balance, and the job’s physical toll. The data suggests that even incremental schedule or travel time improvements can reduce these pressures.

The study also underscores the potential for electric vans to support productivity and well-being across the trades sector. Most electric vans on the market now cover over 150 miles per charge, well above the average daily requirement, making them a practical option for reducing driver fatigue and enhancing comfort with quieter, tech-enabled cabins.

Autonomous vehicle demand lifts Aurrigo revenue by 34%

April Lara
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Autonomous vehicle demand lifts Aurrigo revenue by 34%

Aurrigo International has reported annual revenue of £8.9 million, up 34% year-on-year, driven by strong growth in its autonomous airport operations division.

Based in Coventry with offices in North America and Asia, the company now has ten autonomous vehicles deployed globally. Commercial deals with airports have boosted adoption of its Auto-Sim® digital simulation platform and Auto-DollyTug® electric baggage and cargo tugs.

Following successful trials at Amsterdam Schiphol, Aurrigo’s autonomous equipment has been approved for recommended deployment across a 60+ airport network operated by Aviation Solutions.

In April, the company launched the Auto-Cargo®, its largest vehicle to date, capable of transporting up to 16,500kg. Backed by Innovate UK and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, it will next be trialled by UPS at East Midlands Airport, the UK’s second-largest freight terminal.

Revenue in Aurrigo’s autonomous division rose by 433%, supported by continued business from automotive clients for precision components and wiring harnesses.

The company employs over 110 people and is positioning itself as a first-mover in intelligent Ground Support Equipment (iGSE), targeting wider airport automation opportunities.

Broxtowe Borough Council signs new contract for housing scheme with Peter James Homes

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Broxtowe Borough Council signs new contract for housing scheme with Peter James Homes
Broxtowe Borough Council has signed a new contract for a housing scheme on Coventry Lane, Bramcote that will be developed by Peter James Homes, on a site assembled on land previously owned by McCann and by Bramcote Crematorium. Broxtowe Borough Council is buying 51 homes from Peter James Homes under a Section 106 planning agreement. 34 of the homes will be for social rent and 17 for shared ownership made up of: 14 one bed houses, 9 two bed houses, 10 three bed houses, 1 four bed house, 9 two bed shared ownership houses and 8 three bed shared ownership houses. The new homes will be delivered in phases between 2025 and 2028, with all properties benefitting from Air Source heating and photovoltaic panels to generate electricity. Vanessa Smith, portfolio holder for housing, said: “We’re delighted to be able to sign this contract with Peter James Homes to allow us to continue to push forward with our Housing Delivery Programme, offering more good quality homes to meet the Borough’s local housing need. It’s great that in the future our tenants will be able to move in to brand new homes powered by green energy.”
Simon Gardiner, MD of Peter James Homes, said: “We are delighted to work again with Broxtowe Borough Council. This will be a high quality scheme providing a total of 169 homes, we have taken a lot of care in working on the layout, the street scenes and pallet of materials that will see some great houses released to the community.”

Lincolnshire’s official tourism body folds amid ongoing financial pressures

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Lincolnshire’s official tourism body folds amid ongoing financial pressures

Destination Lincolnshire, the designated local visitor economy partnership (LVEP) for Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland, has ceased operations due to prolonged financial challenges.

The organisation was unable to generate sufficient income to meet its operational costs, leading to the immediate termination of all staff positions. While the operational team has been disbanded, the board of directors will remain in place to oversee the insolvency proceedings.

Destination Lincolnshire had served as a central hub for coordinating tourism strategy across the region, facilitating collaboration between local businesses, councils, and tourism operators. Its closure now creates a gap in the delivery and oversight of regional visitor economy planning.

The future of tourism development in the area will depend on fresh public-private partnerships and establishing a more sustainable funding model to support strategic projects and tourism infrastructure. The organisation’s legacy includes a framework for regional coordination, which stakeholders may need to rebuild or integrate into other structures.

The closure comes as other destination management organisations across the UK also face financial strain. The industry is increasingly dependent on mixed revenue models and government backing.

APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day

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APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day
The APSS Group, incorporating both APSS and TPS Office Furniture, has raised £650 for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance during its annual Mini Ryder Cup Golf Day, held at Lincoln Golf Club in Torksey. Now in its fourth year, the much-anticipated event brought together APSS staff, suppliers, and customers for a fantastic day of golf, networking and fundraising. The day was not only a celebration of friendly competition, but also a meaningful way to give back to a local lifesaving service. The fundraising came through a charity raffle, with prizes kindly donated by Elite Office Furniture, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining Limited, Troax Group, Howdens, Shaw Contract, Nash Glass Ltd, 360 Recruitment Limited, and Lincoln Golf Club. Among the standout prizes were a supercar driving experience, a five-hob induction burner, and a helicopter ride – a fitting tribute to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Richard Mycroft, Managing Director at APSS, said: “It was a brilliant day all round – great company, great golf, and all for a fantastic cause. “The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is a charity that means a lot to us. You never know when you or someone you love might need them. They provide critical care in the most urgent of situations, and we’re proud to support the incredible work they do.” The APSS Group extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and contributed to the day’s success. The event continues to grow each year, uniting the APSS community while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference.

County Hall redevelopment in doubt as council leadership shifts

April Lara
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County Hall redevelopment in doubt as council leadership shifts

The future of a £132 million redevelopment of Derbyshire County Council’s historic County Hall site in Matlock is uncertain following the change in political leadership. The new Reform UK-led administration has signalled a review of all major projects initiated under the previous Conservative council.

The redevelopment proposal includes converting the existing County Hall into a 100-bed hotel, redeveloping the adjacent north block into 45 flats and eight retail units, constructing 50 new homes within the grounds, and establishing a smaller, modern headquarters elsewhere. All development would be privately funded.

Planning applications for the hotel conversion, north block redevelopment, and demolition of link bridges over Smedley Street have now been validated and entered into public consultation. The housing and new HQ components were submitted earlier in the year, with consultation already closed.

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