Fugitive tax fraudster has five years added to sentence
A fugitive fraudster who stole more than £750,000 in a tax and mortgage fraud faces an extra five years in prison for not paying back the money.
Crooked tax agent Robin Moss will also have his prized possessions, including thousands of pounds of collectible Moorcroft pottery, gold coins and jewellery, auctioned off to recover some of the stolen cash.
Moss, an internationally-ranked chess player, lied about his income, made bogus claims in the names of unsuspecting clients, and provided false documents that were used in fraudulent mortgage applications.
The 60-year-old was sentenced in his absence to 10 years in prison for tax fraud, money laundering, mortgage fraud and theft. He was convicted in October 2023, after a joint investigation between HMRC and police officers from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit.
Moss has now been handed an extra five-year sentence at Nottingham Crown Court for failing to repay a £970,101 confiscation order.
He now faces a total of 15 years in prison and will still owe the money, plus interest that continues to accrue, even after he has served his extended sentence.
Mark Robinson Operational Lead, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said: “Our work doesn’t stop at conviction – we always look to recover the proceeds of crime, money that should have been used to fund our public services.
“We’re determined to track down Robin Moss and when we do, he’ll now spend even longer in prison and still owe the money.
“We encourage anyone with information about tax fraud to report it onlineto HMRC.”
Landmark rail innovation centre plans steam ahead
Plans to create a modern rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill, Staveley – which will create jobs and skills opportunities for local people, and bolster Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector – have reached a major milestone.
Proposals to create the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse are pressing ahead after Chesterfield Borough Council appointed a contractor to lead the scheme.
It follows consideration of a report at meetings of Cabinet and Full Council last week which agreed the final elements of the funding package required to support the delivery of the project, and to appoint Stepnell Ltd as the contractor to lead the work.
The plans have been drawn up as part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal and will see the creation of a new facility providing specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses.
Work on site is expected to start in early 2025.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This is a really exciting, landmark project that will create new opportunities for local people to access high-quality skills and jobs, while bolstering Chesterfield’s position as a leading destination for future innovation and investment in the rail sector.
“The DRIIVe project will also play a key role in the emerging East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) with its focus on advanced manufacturing and green technology industries, by attracting the rail sector and associated supply chain to the nearby Chesterfield EMIZ sites.
“It’s great to see the project continue to gather pace, and we look forward to working with the contractor, and our partners, to progress construction of DRIIVe early next year. The facility will be completed by the end of 2025.”
Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The DRIIVe project adds to our public sector expertise of infrastructure and education projects, and will enhance our partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Staveley Town Deal.
“Through committing to delivering early community engagement in the project, the specialist facility will be built to the highest standards of railway training and have an important impact on developing talent in STEM in the region.”
The project will see the creation of 22 job opportunities for local people and a hub from which to increase awareness of rail-related career opportunities, developing STEM skills required to access the industry through a community outreach programme that will support 1,000 individuals each year.
Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is a scheme delivered locally but of national significance, which will open the door to new, high-quality skills and career opportunities for people in Staveley – something which is right at the heart of what we are aspiring to achieve as part the Town Deal programme.
“It’s the latest positive news for Staveley, with our Town Deal projects really gathering pace, and almost all now being delivered on site. This is a fantastic achievement involving lots of different partners, and people will soon start to see the impact of these projects in their communities. Staveley will truly be a place to start, stay and grow.”
The DRIIVe project is being delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with the University of Derby, Chesterfield College and Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society.
Mervyn Allcock, Manager of the Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Staveley Town Deal Board member, said: “This is a project of national significance for the Rail sector, and we are so proud to be creating this fantastic facility here at Barrow Hill.
“The siting of these state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities right next to this amazing venue of international significance will greatly benefit the area and improve the quality of life of local people.”
DRIIVe will include classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.
The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.
Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.
Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to submit an investment plan to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.
Rushcliffe businesses invited to apply for up to £500 of low carbon grants
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders across Rushcliffe can now apply for low carbon grants of up to £500, to help them improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s (RBC) Low Carbon Grant is supported by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and will assist businesses to make more sustainable upgrades to their premises.
Examples of changes which could reduce energy costs and improve efficiency include:
- replacing lightbulbs with LED lighting
- fitting secondary glazing
- upgrading insulation
- installing smart meters or thermostats
- installing low flow taps & toilet measures
- upgrading heating with air curtains
- Carbon Literacy for SMEs on Tuesday January 21, from 9am to 5pm, online
- Low-Cost Carbon Cuts: Affordable Tech, Savvy Procurement, and Smart Behaviour on Wednesday January 22, from 10am to 11am, online
- Net Zero Journey: Understanding & Implementing Carbon Reduction Planning with Science-Based Targets on Wednesday February 5 from 10am to 11am, online
- How environmental responsibility can bring your business alive on Thursday February 6 from 10am to 11am, online
Revamp completes for historic Leicester hotel and shopping street
Main works to revamp one of Leicester’s busiest shopping streets and refurbish the street-facing ground floor of the landmark Grand Hotel building are now complete.
Leicester City Council has carried out a range of improvements to part of Granby Street – between Dover Street and Belvoir Street – to create more space for cyclists and pedestrians and the potential for outdoor café-style seating areas.
Former pay-and-display parking bays – which have been out of use for more than three years – have now been converted into wider, high-quality footpaths and cycleways to help improve the route between the railway station and the city centre. The main carriageway, which is still open to general traffic, has also been completely resurfaced.
New on-street parking bays have been created on nearby Chatham Street, York Street and Calais Street.
The works are part of wider, ongoing heritage-led investment to improve the shopping environment on Granby Street.
This includes the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed Grand Hotel’s street-facing ground floor and historic shopfronts, which have undergone a year-long revamp and renovation programme as part of Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zones.
The shopfronts that line the hotel building’s Granby Street ground level have been restored to as close to the building’s original design as possible, using sustainable hardwood and toughened glass.
Recessed doorways have been fitted with bespoke iron gates and all shops now have new signage that complements the architectural heritage of the building.
Improvements have been made to the hotel’s oriel windows and balcony. The distinctive canopy above the Grand Hotel’s main Granby Street entrance has also been restored to its former glory.
The work was funded by a £700,000 award from the High Street Heritage Action Zones programme, with the hotel owners contributing a further £200,000 towards the costs.
City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The Grand Hotel is a fine example of Leicester’s Victorian past and the city’s rich architectural heritage. With support from Historic England, this landmark building and its historic shopfronts have been restored to their former glory.
“Alongside this, we have made major improvements to this part of Granby Street, creating more space for pedestrians and for outdoor café-style seating along this important and well-used gateway into the city centre.
“It is important that we continue to invest in these sorts of ambitious improvement schemes, working with property owners and businesses to improve shopfronts, preserve the architectural heritage of our historic buildings, and help ensure our shopping streets continue to be welcoming and attractive places to visit and enjoy.
“We have seen how this approach can be a catalyst to transform areas like the Old Town and help attract millions of pounds of private investment into the city centre.”
Andrew Pring asset and investment manager at Jupiter Hotels, the owners of the Grand Hotel, said: “We are delighted with the improvements made to the façade of the hotel and would like to thank all those that have been involved with this project.
“Work has now commenced to completely refurbish the internal areas of the hotel with all 104 bedrooms being extensively upgraded along with all the public areas. We are looking forward to reopening the hotel and welcoming guests in the spring of 2025.”
Louise Brennan, Historic England Regional Director (Midlands), said: “The Grand Hotel scheme is a brilliant example of how heritage can contribute to the regeneration of our towns and cities. Our past is part of our future, and it’s great to see the results of our work with Leicester City Council and the owners of the hotel.
“The restoration and public realm works are a triumph for this part of Leicester, giving new life to a Victorian icon of the city.”
Work to restore the Grand Hotel was led by Leicester-based Hickman & Smith Architects and carried out by specialist contractors Trinity. Early survey and design work was undertaken by conservation experts Conception Architects.
Improvements to Granby Street itself were carried out by the city council’s in-house team of expert stone masons and highways engineers. Final works to close off Dover Street are planned in the new year.
BRUSH supports Leicestershire children’s charity this Christmas
Leicestershire’s most disadvantaged children could receive a special gift or two this Christmas thanks to local charity Toys On The Table, supported by Loughborough-headquartered BRUSH Group.
Employees of the energy engineering solutions company have gathered together a vast collection of new toys and games for the charity to distribute to children who might otherwise not have anything to open on Christmas day.
Besides the generous gifts from its workforce, coordinated by the BRUSH sponsorship committee, the company has also contributed a substantial sum to buy even more toys, and also donated copies of Loughborough Edition Monopoly featuring BRUSH as the Electric Company.
Nicolas Pitrat, BRUSH Group CEO, said: “We first got involved with Toys On The Table last year and, having seen the positive impact the charity is making, we wanted to extend our support for this year.
“I would like to thank everybody in BRUSH who has donated to this year’s collection, and I hope our contribution goes some way to helping more children and their families to enjoy a happy Christmas.”
MP visits Derby vehicle conversions specialists
Mackworth Vehicle Conversion Specialists (VCS), part of Motus Vehicle Solutions, recently welcomed Catherine Atkinson MP, Member of Parliament for Derby North and a member of the Transport Committee, to its Derby site.
Catherine’s visit offered a chance to shine a spotlight on the people behind the work at Mackworth VCS. She met team members across the business, learning about their roles and seeing first-hand the skill that goes into each project. Her visit highlighted the dedication of the workforce and the important contributions they make to the transport sector.
Phil Taylor, Quality and Compliance Inspector at Mackworth VCS, shared his enthusiasm for the visit: “It’s not every day you see an MP taking such an active interest in what we do. It’s easy for companies like ours, tucked away on industrial estates, to be overlooked. Catherine’s visit showed she really understands the importance of businesses like ours in driving the economy and supporting the country’s infrastructure.”
A highlight of the visit was the Q&A session with Mackworth’s shop floor team. Catherine faced direct and insightful questions from employees on topics like sustainability, public transport, and local infrastructure.
Phil reflected on the discussion: “We asked her some tough questions about going green and reducing carbon footprints for businesses like ours. I even brought up the idea of hydro energy, and she told us about Darley Abbey potentially becoming the first hydro-powered town. That was such a positive response and shows she’s really thinking about innovative solutions.”
Andrew Kent, General Manager at Mackworth VCS, emphasised the value of Catherine’s visit: “It’s a privilege to welcome someone who not only listens but genuinely engages with our team. Catherine’s responses were thoughtful and honest, and she clearly recognises the critical role we play in the local economy and the transport sector.”
The challenges of public transport were also on the agenda, with Catherine addressing concerns about reduced bus routes in the Midlands.
Phil explained why this resonated with the team: “Public transport has such a big impact on people getting to work, especially when owning a car isn’t affordable for everyone. Catherine admitted she’s not happy with the current reductions in bus routes and is fighting to address this in Parliament. That honesty and commitment were really encouraging to hear.”
Peter Glover, Managing Director at Motus Vehicle Solutions, echoed the team’s sentiments: “Visits like this are so important. They strengthen the connection between policymakers and businesses like ours, giving us a platform to highlight both the challenges we face and the innovative work we’re doing to solve them. It’s inspiring to see Catherine championing priorities like sustainability and local business growth.”
The discussion also touched on traffic congestion, housing developments, and the ripple effects they have on infrastructure.
Phil commented: “One of my colleagues asked about the backlog of traffic on the A38 due to all the new housing developments. Catherine admitted she didn’t have all the answers right now, and honestly, that’s what you want to hear – it’s refreshing to see that kind of transparency from an MP.”
Catherine’s visit ended on a high note, with her praising Mackworth for its commitment to training and developing skilled workers through apprenticeships and internship programmes.
Andrew summed up the day: “This visit wasn’t just about showcasing what we do; it was about creating a real dialogue. Catherine’s interest and engagement mean a lot to us as a business, and we’re excited about the possibilities this connection could bring in the future.”
Chesterfield firm names man to drive sales in America
Steve Noel has been appointed as US General Manager, a strategic role designed to lead the expansion efforts of hot tub manufacturer Superior Wellness in the United States.
Steve previously held key roles in distribution and operations, including as Senior Operation Manager at Target Corp., where he managed operations across over 100 Target stores in the Southeast. Additionally, he spent seven years with Sleep Number Inc., overseeing essential functions in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. This extensive experience equips him well for his new role at Superior Wellness, where he will be instrumental in establishing and leading the company’s facility in Cameron, South Carolina.
Steve said: “I could not be prouder or more excited to join the Superior Wellness team, especially as part of launching the facility in Cameron. I’m thrilled to help build something sustainable here in the States that will drive the company’s growth for years to come. We have a beautiful facility in South Carolina that will soon be a showcase for excellence.”
In his new role, Steve will focus on building a strong foundation in warehousing and distribution at the Cameron facility, setting the stage for long-term operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the US team. His operational expertise and leadership experience are invaluable assets as we expand our presence in the US. I look forward to working closely with Steve as we drive Superior Wellness forward.”
Entrepreneur Nathalie scoops ‘highly commended’ award
Chesterfield entrepreneur Natalie Burkinshaw has been won a ‘highly commended’ award at a ceremony celebrating female business leaders.
The founder of design agency Crush had been shortlisted as a finalist for Female Entrepreneur of the Year at the Novi Awards, dedicated to ‘championing female business leaders who are breaking barriers across the business world’.
Natalie said: “I am blown away with winning this accolade from Novi. The awards day was absolutely energising, an experience like no other for female business leaders. I had the privilege of meeting some awe-inspiring women who came from every walk of life.”
A female-owned and founded design agency, in an industry where 97% of creative directors are male, Crush has been working on branding, design and website projects for over two decades from its Chesterfield-based studio.
Having already been over the moon to have been shortlisted in the first place, Natalie came away from this year’s Novi Awards with a special prize of Highly Commended, just missing out on top spot.
The judges noted her 20 plus years of business leadership and innovation within the design sector as a significant achievement that they felt shouldn’t go unnoticed, along with her charitable activities outside of the workplace.
2025 Business Predictions: Marc Abrams, Nottingham Office Senior Partner at KPMG UK
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Marc Abrams, Nottingham Office Senior Partner at KPMG UK.
Getting back to sustained economic growth will be a defining issue in 2025 and with the new East Midlands Combined County Authority in power, there’s plenty to play for. Access to its £4billion spending pot will help to boost growth opportunities for our region’s great businesses and universities, and bring the East Midlands onto a more equal footing with other devolution areas.
As home to some of the country’s leading manufacturers, how the East Midlands embraces the green agenda to develop its manufacturing strengths will be essential in driving change and boosting our vibrant health and agri-tech sectors. As a region, we already have much to be proud of in this space, and as the new Combined Authority grows and develops, the role of local businesses will be critical to its success.
Innovation in tech will also continue to accelerate at pace in 2025, with generative AI leading the charge both at home and in the workplace. Technology has the power to revolutionise industries across the East Midlands, and those businesses that are bold and invest in digital transformation will be best-placed to capitalise on new opportunities.
The digital economy will continue to expand, driven by e-commerce, digital payments, and online services. Every new year brings new opportunities, and ambitious businesses are already making moves to enhance their digital presence and leverage technology to reach and serve customers effectively – for those that follow suit, the sky is the limit.
Trade associations unite to call for consultation over inheritance tax changes
Collectively, these associations represent more than 160,000 family businesses, who warn that the changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief announced in the Autumn Budget will have ‘a severe and long-lasting impact on these businesses and the livelihoods of the millions of people they employ’.
In the open letter, published by Family Business UK, leaders warned that the policy changes will ‘starve’ these businesses and the economy of much-needed investment, ‘leading to forced, premature business sales and the loss of jobs in constituencies across the country’.
They add that BPR and APR ‘are not loopholes’ but measures that exist to ‘allow profitable businesses to continue trading, without penalty, when the owner dies’.
Economic impact analysis commissioned by FBUK and produced by CBI Economics has revealed that between 2026/7 – 2029/30 the changes to BPR could reduce economic activity by £9.4bn, lead to more than 125,000 job losses – including among the SMEs the government is trying to support and protect – and result in a net fiscal loss to the Exchequer of £1.25bn.
The NFU’s own impact analysis, produced in consultation with former Treasury and Office for Budget Responsibility economists, found that 75% of commercial family farms will be above the £1m threshold.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said the Family Business UK letter further showed just how poorly thought through the inheritance tax changes were. He said: “As a signatory of the letter, alongside 31 other trade organisations representing the industry and associated businesses, we strongly echo the sentiment that the proposed tax could have far reaching consequences for the broader economy, employment and public finances.
“No one thinks this is a good policy, not even the government’s own advisers. It’s time for Treasury to listen to farmers and the multiple other organisations calling for these proposals to be opened up for consultation.”
CEO of Family Business UK Neil Davy said: “The model of family business ownership is unique. It powers the entire economy from farming to finance and everything in between. This letter, and those who have chosen to sign it, are testament to just how widespread family ownership is, and how committed we are to speak up on behalf of our members.
“Already, family business owners are taking decisions to withhold planned investments and are putting recruitment on hold.”
According to CBI Economics, family businesses mitigating the cost of a potential future Inheritance Tax bill would be most likely to reduce investment and employment leading to an:
- average reduction in investment of 16.5%
- average reduction in headcount of 10.2%
- average loss of turnover of 7.4%.
Historic Nottingham War Rooms to get new lease of life with regeneration plans submitted
Regeneration plans for Nottingham War Rooms on Chalfront Drive in Beechdale have been submitted by Aspbury Planning alongside Nottingham-headquartered practice CPMG Architects ahead of the historic, derelict site being transformed into a mixed-use community hub.
The building was originally constructed in the Cold War era as one of 17 Regional War Rooms across England and Scotland to withstand a nuclear strike, before becoming a Seat for Regional Government in the 1960s following a second phase of construction.
The structure also housed a BBC emergency broadcasting facility for use in a national emergency, prior to being used solely for storage since it was decommissioned in 1969.
Redevelopment of the 4,563 sq m, Grade II listed concrete building includes the preservation of important historic spaces developed in the 1950s and 1960s, such as the Lamson Tube Room, plant rooms and kitchen facility.
CPMG will being using its architecture and interior design expertise to transform the site into a community hub offering long-term and viable use, while including designated heritage zones.
The design plans also include exhibition spaces, media spaces, co-working and conference facilities, health and wellbeing amenities, café and restaurant, and a roof terrace.
Sara Harraway, director and interior design lead at CPMG, said: “The Nottingham War Rooms site offers an opportunity to create a truly unique destination by combining heritage, modern interior design and tangible community benefit.
“While the existing brutalist design will be loved by some and deemed not so visually appealing to others, this ‘brutal beauty’ will be set to make a real difference.
“Our plans centre around enhancing the usability of the site and the creation of a visual dialogue between past and present to respect both the functionality and the significance of the building and its place in the UK’s Cold War history.
“We’ll take a sensitive approach to the interior design, respecting it’s features and seeking to retain its character, using its colour palette, detailing and materials to influence our design development. Lighting will be a critical factor in its success, creating sensitive museum quality environments, to inspirational workspaces and desirable coffee bars and restaurants.
“Following a thorough consultation process prior to the planning submission being submitted, the scheme has come to life. It is incredibly clear how positive and influential the project will be in transforming the building, surrounding area and the local community in Beechdale – which currently does not have adequate provision of available services.
“The Nottingham War Rooms and its history may take centre stage from an outside perspective, but the most value will be gained from the way the repurposed space serves the community and educates future generations.”
The project is being led by property developer Hamilton Russell, in collaboration with landowner Homes England, and includes plans to align all work to local authority targets and environmental plans.
Regeneration and community value will be prominent within the creation of a new 104-affordable home development on the 2.1 hectares of developable land surrounding the war rooms, also being designed by CPMG and backed by East Midlands Housing Group (emh).
The current proposals have provision for two tenure types, shared ownership and social rent. 37% of the proposed homes will be allocated for shared ownership and 63% will be allocated for social rent.
Key project partner and Nottingham-based young people’s charity Base 51 is set to call the War Rooms building its new home if plans are approved, while further partners are set to be confirmed.
Craig Cameron at Hamilton Russell said: “We have been working on this project for a number of years with Nottingham Planning, and are looking forward to getting the planning submitted, and are very excited about the getting started on site in 2025.”
Science company employees raise more than £15,000 for St John Ambulance
Hundreds of science company employees turned their office canteen into a sea of Christmas jumpers as they held one of their final fundraisers wrapping up more than £15,000 in fundraising for St John Ambulance.
Staff at science company Lubrizol’s UK Technical Centre in Hazelwood, near Duffield, put on their best Christmas jumpers, antlers, Grinch outfits and sparkly headgear as a fundraiser for their current chosen charity.
Lubrizol has supported St John Ambulance for the past two years across all its UK sites: Derbyshire, Huddersfield, Blackley in Manchester and Barnsley.
Employees have thrown themselves behind a range of charity fundraisers culminating in dressing up in their festive jumper best for a Christmas meal on-site, donating to St John Ambulance as they did so.
Over two years Lubrizol employees have been raising money for the life-saving charity and will be handing it over when the final donations arrive in early 2025.
Lubrizol staff have undertaken a wide range of charity efforts to raise money for St John Ambulance over the past two years, including employee couple Claire and Tim Hollingshurst who braved blisters and tiredness to walk the whole of the 55-mile Derbyshire Heritage Way within a 24-hour timeframe. The couple and supporters raised nearly £2,000 with their efforts.
Over the past two years teams from St John Ambulance have also visited Lubrizol’s offices across the UK to deliver life-saving first aid sessions.
Across the UK, more than 30,000 cardiac arrests take place outside of a hospital setting annually. But less than one in ten people survive, often because those around them lack the skills or confidence to perform CPR, or access to a defibrillator.
When someone is in cardiac arrest their heart has stopped beating, and every minute without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chances of survival by up to 10 per cent, while early CPR and defibrillation can more than double survival rates.
Claire, who sits on Lubrizol’s charities and communities committee which co-ordinates the company’s charity fundraising each year, said: “Every year we hold our Christmas jumper day at Lubrizol and it’s nice to raise some money for our charity at the same time.
“Some people wear the same Christmas jumper each year but others like to mix it up and surprise us all with something new! One of our senior members of staff likes to wear the same turkey hat each year and it’s a mark of the festive season when we see him wearing it as he walks into the room.
“We’re very proud at Lubrizol to be able to support a new charity every two years and it’s been brilliant to raise money for St John Ambulance in 2023 and 2024. It’s a great organisation that’s saving lives. We’ll be finalising our total in 2025 ready to announce our next chosen charity.”
Pair of Northampton pharmacies sold
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy in Northampton.
Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy are a pair of standard-hour community and health centre pharmacies that dispense a combined average of 17,500 items each month. They are located in Northampton, less than one mile apart on Gloucester Avenue and Delapre Crescent Road respectively.
The branches were previously owned by Vyas Limited for over 10 years and were brought to market to enable semi-retirement.
Following a confidential off-market sales process with Carl Steer at Christie & Co, and with funding sourced through David Ward at Christie Finance, they have been sold to Sagar Shah, who is now the proud owner of three pharmacies all bought through and funded through Christie & Co and Christie Finance.
Carl Steer, Director – Pharmacy at Christie & Co, said: “Not many first-time buyers find their ideal pharmacy close to home, but we were pleased to help Sagar achieve this 18 months ago, so to be able to help him add two more in his local area is pleasing.
“Delapre and Far Cotton pharmacies were sold off-market and offered to just a handful of likely suitors. The guide price was achieved.
“Year-on-year, not many pharmacies come to market in Northamptonshire, so it was pleasing to complete two more this year after two last year. There are many Pharmacists seeking a pharmacy business across the wider county, and we expect this strong appetite to continue in 2025.”
Delapre Pharmacy and Far Cotton Pharmacy were sold for an undisclosed price.
Regeneration plans move forward for the Hucknall area
Plans to use Nottinghamshire County Council-owned land to help boost the local economy have taken a further step forward.
This is the next phase of the Top Wighay site, near Hucknall, which the county council successfully secured outline planning permission for in 2022 and has already made substantial progress on, with the residential element of the site and the construction of the Oak House office well underway.
This next phase includes the development of land earmarked for employment use. Uses could include workshops, storage, distribution, and other employment uses that can drive local economic growth.
A specialist agency will now be commissioned by Arc Partnership, on behalf of the county council, to come up with a range of options on the potential future use for this land, including a feasibility study into the self-delivery of employment units.
Options will then be considered by the county council in early 2025.
Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, said: “We have big plans for this development to bring more jobs, skills and inward investment to the area.
“With its central location, good public transport links and being close to the M1, this site could be an attractive location for businesses.
“We are a forward-thinking council, so providing workshops or business units for SMEs could be something we could consider.
“This would not only help boost the local economy but would also help generate revenue which could be used towards other council services.
“We will carefully look into all the options available to find what is best for this site.”
A new community is being created on the overall site, including much-needed new homes led by Vistry Partnerships.
Oak House, the council’s new low carbon, all-electric office is currently under construction on the site and due for completion in 2025.
It also forms part of the wider plan to bring more jobs, skills and investment into the Hucknall area.
This new office is being designed, project and cost-managed by Arc Partnership and delivered through Arc’s construction partner, Morgan Sindall Construction.
Sara Williams, Deputy Managing Director at Arc Partnership, said: “We are pleased to be supporting Nottinghamshire County Council with the next phase of the Top Wighay site.
“The options appraisal will consider the viability of all development opportunities for the site and local economy.”
Work starts on new affordable homes for Ashbourne
Work has begun on 35 new, affordable and sustainable homes in Ashbourne.
Sited on the old airfield off Cavendish Drive, the development will be a mix of two and three-bedroom homes, including six bungalows and 29 houses.
Seventeen homes will be available for shared ownership – part rent, part buy – and the remaining 18 for affordable rent. The homes are expected to be complete in winter 2025.
Rob Cogings, Director of Housing at Derbyshire Dales District Council, said: “The provision of affordable homes remains the Council’s top priority and this development follows another recently completed affordable homes development at the former Dove Garage site on Mayfield Road, also in Ashbourne.
“All affordable homes for rent and shared ownership can be viewed online at www.home-options.org. These new homes will be advertised later in 2025.”
Developed by Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) in partnership with MyPad, the scheme will offer much-needed affordable housing for local families.
MyPad will construct the homes, that’ll be built to energy rating A standard. With no gas on-site, the homes will be fitted with air source heat pumps, enhanced insulation, and advanced double-glazed windows, along with EV charging points for each home and PV panels reducing energy bills for residents and supporting Derbyshire Dales District Council’s commitment to a greener future.
NCHA and MyPad recently met with Derbyshire Dales District Council for a tour of the site.
Claudine Edwards, New Business and Development Manager at NCHA, said: “This development reflects our commitment to building homes that are both affordable and environmentally friendly, in line with our sustainability targets.
“With rising energy costs, these homes will provide residents with lower living expenses and a reduced carbon footprint. We’re proud to bring this new housing scheme to Ashbourne, addressing local housing needs while paving the way for a sustainable future.”
John Turner, Land and Partnerships Director at MyPad, said: “We’re delighted to have started another project in partnership with NCHA. This development will provide a range of high quality and efficient homes to meet the growing need for affordable housing in Ashbourne. We’re now fully focused on build to allow the handover of the first completed homes in summer 2025.”
Interest rates left unchanged
The Bank of England has held interest rates at 4.75%, in line with expectations following the further rise in inflation announced yesterday.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which sets monetary policy to meet the 2% inflation target, voted by a majority of 6–3 to maintain Bank Rate at 4.75%. Three members preferred to reduce Bank Rate by 0.25 percentage points, to 4.5%.
Alpesh Paleja, Interim Deputy Chief Economist, CBI, said: “It was widely expected that the Monetary Policy Committee would keep rates unchanged in December. Having cut twice this year, today’s announcement was in line with the gradual pace of rate cuts that the MPC has previously endorsed.
“However, the trade-off facing the Bank of England is getting more difficult. While the worst of the inflation crisis is undoubtedly behind us, we now expect the CPI rate to stay above the Bank’s 2% target for the next two years- following announcements in October’s Budget.
“Domestic price pressures also remain stubbornly high. At the same time, business surveys – including our own – show a notable deterioration in growth and hiring expectations.
“The MPC has prioritised its price stability mandate in the recent past, which aligns with a gradual loosening in monetary policy. As a result, we expect four more rate cuts over the coming year.
“However, if growth prospects worsen more materially, dampening domestic price pressures in the process, we may be looking at a scenario where rates are cut at a faster pace.”
Footprints calls out for building materials and construction skills for new centre
Nottingham-based charity Footprints Conductive Education Centre is asking the East Midlands construction community if it can pledge its support in 2025.
Footprints transforms the lives of children living with mobility and communication difficulties across the East Midlands and empower their families. Through Conductive Education and its other transformative services, children develop the skills they need to thrive and achieve their potential.
Having outgrew its previous centre, which was within a school in Sneinton, the charity announced earlier this year that it had found its own, larger premises on Farnborough Road in Clifton, and would be moving in 2025.
The brand-new Footprints Centre, home of Footprints Conductive Education and Community hub, will enable the charity to deliver a greater number of transformative services and reach more children and families, as well as connect with the local community. However, the new centre needs significant renovation works before it can be fully operational.
To progress with the building works Footprints is looking for companies who can support with services and donations of building materials, supply and installation of insulation and landscaping services. It is also looking for funds to buy the equipment it needs in the centre to support more families.
The charity has already welcomed over 100 volunteers who have helped to strip back and clear the site, and local businesses have also played a major role in the project to date. Halsall Lloyd Partnership Architects, project manager Gleeds, mechanical and electrical engineer Chord Consult and workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors have donated time and expertise to get the renovation plans together.
John Pye Auctions has also donated goods for the centre, as well as storage and logistical support with the collection and delivery of furniture and materials, and 200 Degrees Coffee will be training volunteers to be baristas in the new coffee bar.
Blueprint Interiors is now calling on its contacts in the property and construction industry to bring together more partners who are looking for a meaningful cause to support in the new year, and can help Footprints get its new centre operational.
John Tansur, Commercial Director at Blueprint Interiors, said: “Having seen the miracles the team at Footprints have performed over the years working with the children and families it supports, it was an easy decision for us to get involved in the project. If the business community can all pull together and deliver the facilities they need then we can help change so many lives for the better.
“To help with longer term financial support, part of the new centre will be a wellbeing coffee bar which will provide a safe and supportive space for families to spend time in and connect with other Footprints families, as well as being open to the local community.”
Stephen Frew, Footprints’ Business and Charity Manager, said: “Moving to our new centre in Clifton will be an absolute game changer for Footprints. As a charity who supports children and families with mobility and communication difficulties, it’s crucial that we provide a space which is accessible and is suitable for all of our needs, now and in the future. And we’re so pleased to have found this at Clifton!
“At our brand-new Footprints Centre, we will be able to deliver a greater number of our transformative services and reach more families and children. We are hugely grateful to the amazing organisations who are working with us on our exciting project, their support will truly make a difference to all of the children and families we support.”
As well as having the wellbeing coffee bar for families and the community, the new Footprints Centre will have three session rooms, and new facilities including a sensory room, function space and outdoor education areas.
To find out more about the project and to pledge support, contact enquiries@footprintscec.org
Football clubs write to Government to support rail link connecting Midlands cities
Coventry City and Nottingham Forest football clubs have written to the Transport Secretary and the Culture Secretary to support a potential rail link that would connect Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham to boost economic growth in the Midlands.
The rail link, planned by Midlands Connect, would reinstate direct rail services between the three cities for the first time in two decades.
The letter signed by the sports clubs says improved rail connections between Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham would help to reduce emissions from match-going fans by offering supporters a reliable alternative to the car. The link would also increase home and away attendance in the major sports grounds and entertainment venues of the Midlands, providing a boost to the local economy.
Interviews with Coventry City, Leicester City and Nottingham Forest fans showed an appetite for improved rail connections for fans in the Midlands.
John Taylor, COO at Coventry City, said: “For Coventry City and other football clubs, transporting fans efficiently and sustainably is incredibly important.
“This project will help increase attendance and create an easier journey for people using the Coventry Building Society Arena for non-sporting events.
“Connecting the three major cities is massively beneficial for sports clubs like Coventry City, and other local businesses.”
Andy Clark, Head of Rail at Midlands Connect said: “Currently only 3% of journeys on the Coventry-Leicester-Nottingham corridor are made by train, compared to 30% between better connected cities such as Coventry and Birmingham.
“We plan to have a direct, half hourly service with a journey time of 40 minutes from Coventry to Leicester and 70 minutes from Coventry to Nottingham, which would improve the journey for thousands of sports fans and other customers travelling between the three cities”.
Council issues Temporary Stop Notice on 45-house development
Newark and Sherwood District Council have issued a Temporary Stop Notice (TSN) on the Cameron Homes development site at The Vineries, Kirklington Road, Southwell effective immediately.
This action comes after numerous planning conditions were found to be non-compliant, despite repeated efforts to resolve these issues through dialogue between the developer and District Council.
Outlined planning permission was granted in June 2021 for the construction of 45 dwellings on the site, subject to 20 conditions requiring approval before development commenced. Following this, reserved matters was granted in September 2024, which also included several conditions for compliance.
Both permissions necessitated significant work on the existing highway network, including the installation of a new mini roundabout and other alterations, collectively referred to as S278 works.
In late October 2024, it was brought to the District Council’s attention that activities had commenced on-site without the necessary pre-commencement planning conditions being approved. Although initially described as S278 works by the developer, Cameron Homes, it was later revealed that the onsite activities also included main development works.
Despite ongoing discussions, the required planning conditions remain unfulfilled. Issues noted include the creation of an unauthorised temporary access from Kirklington Road, lack of wheel washing facilities, and inadequate tree protection measures.
Councillor Andy Freeman, Chair of Planning Committee at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Issuing a Temporary Stop notice is not a decision taken lightly. Across the country there is a real need to build more homes so it’s disappointing that Cameron Homes have left us no choice but to take enforcement action.
“As a planning authority, we have a duty to take action if planning conditions have been broken regardless of if it’s for a single property or a large development.
“We’re keen to work with Cameron Homes so we can quickly resolve this and would appreciate their co-operation in ensuring they stick to the planning conditions.”
Due to the continued progression of the development and unresolved issues, the District Council has determined that issuing a TSN is necessary. The TSN will halt all development activities for 56 days, except for making the site safe.
This period is intended to allow Cameron Homes to submit sufficient information to discharge the planning conditions and ensure full compliance with the granted permissions.
Final phase gets underway at Market Harborough business park
The final phase of Airfield Business Park is underway after a groundbreaking ceremony in Market Harborough.
With businesses first moving in in 2019, Leicestershire County Council’s development has been fully let at every stage and has proved to be a popular location for businesses – boosting local jobs and the local economy.
A special event was held to mark the start of construction, featuring councillors, Leicestershire-based architects IMA Architects, building contractors Britcon and project managers Pulse Consult.
A local company expanding their business into a new unit when work has finished were also in attendance.
Councillor Lee Breckon, cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “It is fantastic for work to begin on the final phase of this successful business park.
“Airfield is popular with businesses and it’s brilliant that we’re able to help thriving businesses expand. We’ve been able to keep our local businesses local, boosting both employment and the Leicestershire economy.”
Many of the commercial units have already been let. Tenants include fine foods manufacturer and distributor Bramble Foods, who already employ more than 150 people in Market Harborough. They will occupy a 67,000 sq ft unit to expand their growing business when work is completed.
Tony Foster, Managing Director of Bramble Foods, said: “We are very pleased that work has begun on our new distribution unit, it secures the future of Bramble Foods Group in Market Harborough and will be an important part of our continued growth.
“We launched Bramble Foods in 2008 in the town with a team of 6 people we now employ over 140 from the local area so it was very important to us that we kept the local tie.
“With the town growing so quickly it is essential that projects like this continue to help create local jobs and bolster the local economy.
“Bramble will continue to operate from two other sites in town, the preserve manufacturing site on the Riverside Industrial estate and the Bakery and packing facility on Crosby road.”
As with the first phase of Airfield Business Park, commercial units range in size to cater for a variety of businesses’ needs.
Sustainability will also be at the forefront of the county council-led development, featuring sustainable construction methods including the use of solar panels, electric car charging points, insulation and the use of best practice construction methods.
Located next to the roundabout on the B6047 Harborough Road, the development will also include a Costa Coffee and will be capable of hosting a second drive-thru unit.
