Andrew + Ashwell makes leadership team promotions
Andrew + Ashwell, a property consultancy firm in Leicestershire, has promoted two surveyors within its leadership team.
Kelvin Wilson, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the industry, has been elevated to the position of director, having previously served as an associate director. Additionally, Joe Dodd, a dedicated member of the team, has been promoted to the role of associate director.
Kelvin Wilson, who has been an integral part of Andrew + Ashwell for several years, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to delivering outstanding service to clients.
His promotion to director is a well deserved recognition of his hard work, dedication, and proven track record of success within the company. In his new role, Kelvin will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the firm, driving growth, and ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality service to clients.
“I am honoured and excited to take on the role of director,” said Kelvin. “Having been at the firm 10 years this year, starting as a fresh faced graduate in 2014, I have seen the company continue to evolve and I look forward to building on our long term reputation of excellence and to continue driving the company forwards.”
Joe Dodd, who has shown exceptional commitment in his role at the company, has been promoted to the position of associate director. Joe’s promotion is a testament to his hard work, expertise, and commitment to delivering exceptional results for clients.
In his new position, Joe will continue to play a key role in supporting the company’s growth and success, working closely with the leadership team to drive innovation and excellence in service delivery for clients, whilst helping the younger members of the team to progress.
“I am very proud to be given a new role and responsibilities as associate director at A+A,” said Joe. “I have been fortunate to gain guidance from a team with a wealth of experience and I am committed to continuing to deliver the highest standard of service to new and existing clients and contributing to the ongoing success of the company.”
Manchester Airports Group seek planning permission for new manufacturing park
Manchester Airports Group is seeking planning permission to turn land near East Midlands Airport into a new hi-tech logistics and manufacturing park as part of the East Midlands Freeport.
It relates to a site just south of the A453 alongside the airport, and if approved could result in more than 2,000 new jobs once fully operational and employ up to 174 people during a two-year construction period.
It’s estimated the new development could contribute up to £132m per year in GVA to the East Midlands economy, along with almost £9m in additional annual business rates contributions.
The land has been designated a tax site as part of East Midlands Freeport to help attract new investment and jobs to the region. The draft local plan also identifies it as a potential location for strategic distribution, located in the heart of the country close to the M1 and major road network, the UK’s number one dedicated cargo airport, and the East Midlands Gateway rail freight hub and logistics park – all within what’s known as the UK’s logistics ‘Golden Triangle.’
The plans laid before North West Leicestershire District Council describe the outline proposals as several units up to 25m tall, providing up to 135,000 square metres of floorspace for general industrial and storage or distribution uses, along with offices. The largest units would be located closest to the A453, with smaller units along the southern end of the site. This would help towards meeting a need identified by North West Leicestershire District Council for 2.5m square metres of additional warehousing in the area by 2041.
EMA’s MD Steve Griffiths said: “This is a prime site for a development of this kind, given its proximity to major road and rail networks and the UK’s number one express air cargo hub. Given its status as a Freeport tax site, we are confident that if approved, we will have little difficulty in attracting businesses, bringing much-needed jobs to the region during its construction and operation.
“The proposals we have submitted to the council outline how we have carefully considered the opportunities and constraints of the site, seeking to strike the balance between the need for such a development against the potential impact on the environment and local residents. We have met and will continue to meet members of Diseworth Parish Council and community groups and have aimed to address their concerns in our proposals.”
Tom Newman-Taylor, Chief Exec of East Midlands Freeport, said: “Our mission is to act as a catalyst for economic regeneration across the East Midlands to create thousands of jobs boosting skills for local workers, and accelerating the region’s commitment to decarbonisation through sustainable development and low-carbon energy investments.
“We support moves by our key partners to develop the Freeport’s strategically important sites which offer unparalleled connectivity to the rest of the UK. We also welcome the consultation the airport has carried out with the local community and the steps they have taken to address their concerns as part of the process.”
Gain exposure amongst the property & construction industry at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Raise the profile of your business by submitting a nomination for Business Link’s prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024!
Toasting the region’s property and construction industry, its people, and exceptional developments, the annual awards attract leaders from across the region and are the perfect way for firms to promote the work they are completing and create more buzz.
The awards provide an opportunity to put on display outstanding new commercial and residential developments, as well as those putting sustainability at the forefront and illustrating design excellence; recognise the region’s developers, architects, contractors, and agents making great impact over the past year; showcase significant deals and those involved, and ensure responsible businesses get their moment in the spotlight.
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 professionals from across the East Midlands.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours.
Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
- 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 for the event’s other awards)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
Tickets can now be booked for the 2024 awards event, click here to secure yours.
Taking place in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 3rd October, from 4:30pm – 7:30pm, connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Global Brands expands spirits portfolio with Irish acquisition
Chesterfield-based Global Brands has announced a further expansion of its spirits portfolio, thanks to its recent partnership with Shanky’s Whip, the original Irish black liqueur and whiskey blend.
The partnership will see Global Brands take full UK distribution for Shanky’s Whip across on and off trade, online and cash and carry channels. The strategic alliance comes on the back of Global Brands’ recent spirits focus, having recently announced their off trade partnership with Red Leg Rum and the launch of Take, their own flavoured Tequila.
Owned by importer and distributor Biggar & Leith, Shanky’s Whip is a unique Irish whiskey liqueur, blended with vanilla and caramel, made to shot, sip, or mix. Shanky’s current major listings include Greene King, Amazon, Costco and Whitbread, amongst other regional groups and venues.
Global Brands, whose portfolio includes VK, Hooch, and Franklin & Sons, is set to leverage its robust distribution network, and market insights to enhance the market prominence of Shanky’s Whip, propelling its growth by positioning the brand as a challenger against mainstream competitors.
Julian Atkins, MD at Global Brands, said: “Becoming the UK distributor for Shanky’s Whip marks another milestone in our ongoing spirits strategy as we continue to diversify the business into new categories through a combination of NPD and working with established industry partners. Elwyn Gladstone and Mark Teasdale have an amazing track record of creating and building brands and we are delighted to be working with them.”
“Shanky’s authentic provenance, unique brand proposition and iconic flavour is fast becoming a consumer favourite, and we’re looking forward to leveraging our capabilities to support the brand.”
Elwyn Gladstone, Founder of Biggar & Leith, added: “This partnership with Global Brands will help to expand our distribution footprint across the UK. We have enjoyed tremendous growth for Shanky’s Whip overseas and see real opportunity here in the UK.”
“Global Brands will play a key role in our UK growth, and we look forward to seeing the results of the partnership come to fruition over the coming months, on our journey of achieving key grocery listings.”
30,000ft² of warehouse space let on Sherwood Park
Acting on behalf of longstanding clients, Tim Gilbertson of FHP Property Consultants has let a substantial warehouse at Sherwood Park just off Junction 27 of the M1 motorway.
In this latest letting on the park, a long lease has been agreed to expanding local occupier Staytite, who have taken over 30,000ft² of accommodation set on a large site.
Tim Gilbertson, director of FHP, said: “Once again it has been a pleasure acting on behalf of our longstanding clients to dispose of another unit for them here, this is the latest in a number of lettings we have undertaken over the last few years and it has been a pleasure once more to act on their behalf.
“Equally, it has been enjoyable to work with Staytite and see their expansion and relocation from slightly further north taking benefit of this excellent building which sits adjoining the M1 motorway.
“In a market where demand remains healthy, supply levels are really dropping now but we continue to see disposals happen in this mid-range sector, and this latest letting of 30,000ft² takes more space from our market so I applaud Staytite in securing this building so quickly.
“From our client’s perspective, it’s been a great deal as not only have we given them a new occupier but also done so in double quick time leaving virtually no void period between the departure of the former tenant and the arrival of the new one.
“My best wishes to both parties and I’d be delighted to speak to clients both old and new for any industrial or distribution space that they have coming available in the East Midlands as we continue to experience decent levels of demand and very limited supply in all locations and sectors.”
Andrew Black, Managing Director of Staytite, said: “This fantastic facility quadruples our previous storage capability and will allow Staytite to expand in line with the needs of our manufacturing and rail customers.
“Its strategic location offers swift delivery of expertise to the Midlands and North of England, ensuring we meet our clients’ demands with enhanced efficiency and reduced lead times.”
Refurb will have pub open again by end of next month
Building work has started on a £243,000 revamp of The Crown on the market square in the centre of Rugby with a view to its re-opening at the end of next month, having created six new jobs.
Every element of the interior will benefit from the investment including the installation of new furniture, wide planked timber floors, a feature fire place, carpet and lighting and redecoration of the toilets.
Local resident Joe Wild will be taking on the management of the pub, and says: “I am looking forward to opening the doors, meeting customers, and getting to know them. I want The Crown to offer relaxed top-quality drinks, good company, and great service – the sort of place I would like to go.
Nathan Darby, Star Pubs Business Development Manager, said: “The Crown is a lovely characterful pub in a prominent location in the town. In has become tired looking in recent times and so fallen out of favour. With its upgrade, new look and with Joe at the helm I am sure it will become a popular town centre local once again. I wish him and his new team every success.”
The refurbishment at The Crown is part of a £39m investment that Star Pubs & Bars is making in 621 pubs in 2024.
Start-ups aiming to help the elderly and support disadvantaged young people secure funding
A start-up business that aims to improve the lives of the elderly has won the Ingenuity Impact Entrepreneur of the Year award from Nuffield Health in the Ingenuity Impact Showcase 2024.
Run by the University of Nottingham and in partnership with Nuffield Health, the Ingenuity Programme provides start-up skills and training, networking, mentoring, and routes to funding for early-stage impact-driven businesses to make social, health and environmental change.
The most impactful ideas are awarded a top prize and receive a share of £75,000 funding to help them in the early stages of their entrepreneurial journeys.
The programme supports participants to turn ideas for change into exciting new ventures and adopts an agile and flexible approach to ensure diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility.
The Ingenuity Programme is designed to demystify entrepreneurship and support those not currently served by existing services available in Nottingham and in the UK’s start-up landscape. This includes engaging with and supporting underserved and underrepresented groups both from within the university and its local communities.
This year, the overall winner was Max Bateson from HYGGE who won the Ingenuity Impact Entrepreneur of the Year award, supported by Nuffield Health.
HYGGE aims to provide innovative solutions for the challenges of the UK’s aging population, integrating modern technology, adaptable living spaces, and a supportive environment to support caregivers and improve the lives of the elderly. This also aims to reduce the burden on informal carers and provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional care homes, promoting independence and social interaction for the elderly.
Max Bateson, Health Champion and Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, said: “Really happy to have gotten this far and to be able to present HYGGE. For me, the best part of this has been meeting so many people along the way who have been so great in offering expertise to help HYGGE.
“Working with Ingenuity has been great as every time I join a networking call in particular I always get a new boost of motivation to push harder as I see so many people doing amazing things to offer a product or service to help others!”
Other successful business ventures of the event included Jade Morgan from BaseGap who won the Communities Champion, and Saskia Manson from re-new who was the Climate Champion.
BaseGap, founded by Jade Morgan, tackles the double disadvantage of young people facing poorly designed homes and public spaces. This social enterprise believes young people aged 14-25 from underprivileged communities deserve inspiring surroundings. BaseGap works with them, educators, and councils to co-create comfortable and supportive spaces.
Re-new provides a library of reuse methodologies and real-world case studies to enable integration of material reuse into major redevelopment projects from the outset.
Jade Morgan said: “The Ingenuity Programme propelled BaseGap from a passionate idea to a viable social enterprise, equipping me with the skills and confidence to turn my vision into a reality. I’m truly grateful to the team for their continuous support!”
Ben Davies, Organisational Development Director at Nuffield Health, said: “At Nuffield Health, we are passionate about partnerships that tackle the UK’s major health, social, and environmental challenges, so we’re proud to once again be working alongside Ingenuity Impact, which provides vital support to emerging entrepreneurs who are making tangible and positive differences in their communities.
“This year, I’ve been blown away by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the winners. A huge well done to everyone who took part.”
Claire Mulholland, Director of the Ingenuity Programme, said: “I am delighted with the outcome of the 2024 Ingenuity National Competition and the positive, meaningful impact of the programme this year.
“The Ingenuity Programme team are so incredibly proud of our 2024 Changemakers and their commitment to developing businesses focused on improving health, tackling climate change and building stronger communities.
“Thank you to our participants, alumni, corporate, community and university partners, mentors, judges, contributors and other valued members of our Ingenuity Programme network.” East Midlands educators and employers address People and Skills challenges at summit
East Midlands Chamber’s annual People and Skills summit took place on 12th June at Nottingham Trent University, bringing together 200 delegates from the business community and education sector.
Through a series of talks, keynote speakers and workshops, the summit was centred around the Chamber’s Manifesto for Growth 2024 – which outlines a set of policy asks for the next government to consider.
Speakers at the summit included: Professor Baback Yazdani, Executive Dean of Nottingham Business School; Kate Lee, Talent & Resourcing Manager, Samworth Brothers; Emma Kwiatkowski, Director, Hays; Craig Brothers, Vice President, East Midlands Chamber; Laura Shepherd, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Loughborough College and Dr Gareth Thomas, Managing Director, Skills and Employment Support Ltd.
East Midlands Chamber Head of Special Projects Richard Blackmore said:
“Reforming skills is an essential ingredient to economic growth and all the research we conduct with businesses in the East Midlands – like our latest Quarterly Economic Survey where 66% of respondents in the region reported difficulties recruiting staff – has underlined the need to address the issue. The East Midlands People and Skills summit is one of the ways the Chamber can get right into the heart of the issues faced by businesses, breaking them down and finding solutions to overcome each hurdle.
“Candidate needs are evolving, while factors like technology advance just as quickly. Businesses need to ready themselves for emerging technology like AI and what that might mean for the skills candidates might need in the future. Workplaces need to be attractive to new recruits and be open minded to finding ways to match their needs with those of prospective employees. That can mean consideration of things like having a strong Corporate and Social Responsibility policy, offering employees the opportunity to engage with communities and charities, for example.
“If we can pinpoint the sticking blocks in skills, recruitment and retention, we can fix them and that’s why it’s so important that businesses and educators engage with each other, to solve staffing issues both now and in the future.”
Skills & Employment Support Limited Managing Director Dr Gareth Thomas, who chaired a panel discussion on engagement between businesses and educators said of the benefit of the summit:
“It drives relationships, gets more businesses talking to the training organisations and the educators, and supports innovation. There’s a lot that the education sector can learn from industry and if some of that expertise can be shared on the back of the summit that’s great. The summit helps to raise awareness of the great offer of training and funded training that is available here in the East Midlands that most employers probably aren’t aware of.”
Small firms need Government to reduce cost of international trade
Small firms say the “supply chain could crumble” unless the next Government prioritises international trade.
Figures from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) show that one in five (22%) small firms are worried about the costs of exports and imports over the next five years.
The research also shows how one in four (27%) would like to see a reduction in the cost and time it takes to import and export.
Elsewhere, three in ten (28%) say that one of the measures in FSB’s manifesto proposal for a Small Business Act should focus on making it easier for the UK to trade internationally.
Tina McKenzie, FSB’s Policy Chair, said: “International trade fuels progress and fresh ideas, and without it, our supply chain crumbles. Small firms who reach global markets also tend to grow faster and be stronger during tough economic times.
“However, our research presents some troubling figures, so the next Government will therefore need to keep trade at the top of their agenda.
“Strengthening trade links with major markets like the EU and USA is key to the UK’s future as a global trading force. This would also incentivise small firms to start and continue trading.
“Our election manifesto outlines ways to achieve this, including creating a simple online trade portal that collects all the information small firms need to provide just once – a “once and done” approach. The hefty paperwork and confusing fees associated with international trade are also a concern, and those administrative burdens need to be reduced.
“Investing in training for Border Force staff is a quick way to keep goods moving smoothly across the borders, as will on-the-ground resources to improve customs training.
“There also needs to be plans for a next-generation export development grant or tax relief scheme, taking inspiration from successful international examples, such as the ones used in Australia for decades.
“In the 2026 review of the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Government should negotiate to remove the need for an intermediary for the EU VAT system. They should also aim for mutual recognition of product standards and professional qualifications in key sectors.
“We were pleased to be invited to work with the Labour Party on an exports taskforce, which will create a better approach to industrial trade and policy, and be published shortly.
“Simplifying international trade for small businesses will allow us to drive significant economic growth and increase resilience. We must not let this opportunity pass us by.”
Stud Brook Business Park takes shape with lead construction contractor appointed
Clowes Developments have confirmed that TanRo will be the lead construction contractor on units 2-7 at the 20-acre Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington.
The mixed-use development will include employment, amenity, office and industrial units for sale or let ranging in size from 1,500 to 45,000 sq ft – as well as a retail offer. The units have been designed by IMA Architects.
James Richards, Development Director at Clowes Developments, said: “With the recent success and speed of delivery at Fairham Business Park, we have secured a contract to work with TanRo again on this development which is just a stone’s throw away from Fairham in Castle Donington. We are really pleased to see this site coming to life and we look forward to further cementing our relationship with TanRo on this project.”
Duncan Paterson, Contracts Manager at TanRo, added: “We are delighted to work with Clowes Developments again on this brand-new mixed-use development at Castle Donington.
“At Fairham Business Park, we have consistently delivered high-quality units ahead of schedule, and we are excited to bring the same level of excellence to Stud Brook Business Park. This collaboration underscores our commitment to developing premier commercial property that meet the needs of its occupiers and contributes to the growth of the local economy.”
NG Chartered Surveyors have been appointed as joint agents with FHP Property Consultants to market leasehold opportunities at Stud Brook Business Park.
Local partners celebrate completion of new homes in Blaby District
Representatives from emh group, Blaby District Council, Homes England and Lovell recently met to celebrate the opening of The Villers in Whetstone.
The Villers is an affordable housing development, providing a range of family housing, dementia-friendly bungalows, and supported living for people with a variety of complex needs. The homes are built on a former industrial brownfield site, and the development contains 77 homes with a range of types and sizes, with a split of social rent and shared ownership tenures.
The Villers was delivered by emh group, as part of its Strategic Partnership agreement with Homes England, and in partnership with Blaby District Council and development partners Lovell.
Emh worked closely with Blaby District Council to ensure the development met critical local housing needs and helped to ease pressure on the local need for temporary housing.
Chan Kataria, Group Chief Executive at emh, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to come together with our partners to celebrate the completion of this fantastic scheme.
“Through our strong partnership with Blaby District Council, we have delivered homes that meet the needs of local people, helping them to meet their housing aspirations. I’m proud that we have been able to work with our partners to achieve emh’s ambition of building high-quality homes for thriving communities.”
Ian Jones, Housing Services Manager for Blaby District Council, said: “It is so satisfying to see this development completed. Thanks to our partnership with emh Group and Homes England we now have a range of modern and much-needed affordable new homes in Blaby District. This will enable more people to get on the property ladder as well as access homes at an affordable rent.”
The Villers has seen a high level of demand, particularly for the shared ownership homes which had over 500 people interested in the 39 available homes. All new residents come from the local area, helping them to stay connected to schools, family, friends and support networks.
The Villers is built on land which until recently consisted of derelict industrial buildings and overgrown vegetation. The site has historical significance, being the former home of the Whittle Estate, developed by Air Commodore Sir Frank Whittle, and later an important centre for the nuclear industry and computer research. The site also incorporates part of the embankment of the disused Great Central Railway.
The site has a sense of openness, with homes addressing a soft landscaped area centred around a pond creating a ‘village green’ feel. The connection to open green space is further enhanced through the integration of the wildlife corridor along the former railway line.
Coalville Town FC scores big with donations from Aggregate Industries
Grassroots football team, Coalville Town Youth Football Club, has a new, full size 3G pitch and extended car park thanks to a significant monetary and material donation from construction supplier, Aggregate Industries.
Coalville Town Youth FC started 25 years ago and over the past five years has become a non-profit organisation and then a charity. This enabled the club to be eligible for The Football Foundation and FA grants to improve its facilities.
Before it could receive grant funding for its priority 3G pitch, it was clear from the start that the club would need to raise a minimum of £220,000 to put towards the project. As well as other fundraising efforts by the club, Aggregate Industries’ Bardon Hill Community Fund donated the final £15,000 needed to get the club over the line of its £220,000 barrier.
Not stopping there, the team at Aggregate Industries was keen to offer further support to help the club complete its projects and grow. The business consequently donated 260 tonnes of Type 1 aggregate to complete the car park area at the Owen Street club, allowing parents and local crowds ample space to easily park.
This year Coalville Town Youth FC will have around 1,000 children and young adults signed up to one of its many teams. This includes both male and female football teams across every age group from under sevens to adult teams, mini football for those under the age of six and inclusive football sessions. In addition the facility will be used by the wider community for walking football, wellbeing sessions and as a training venue for other local football clubs and for Coalville Town Rugby Club.
Wayne McDermott, Club Secretary at Coalville Town Youth FC, said: “We are so grateful to Aggregate Industries for not only completing our efforts to raise £220,000 to kickstart our 3G pitch project, but then going above and beyond to donate such a high quantity of material from its local quarry to our car park.
“With our new 3G pitch, we will not only be able to better serve our many youth teams, but also offer more casual games, wellbeing sessions, and an educational program run by Derby County in the Community. In the past we have had to operate over four sites, however that’s changed now the 3G pitch has been installed at Owen Street, and we can use it seven days a week, which will enable it to become an important hub in the local community.”
The new car park was completed just in time for its first use during the club’s annual presentation weekend, which saw all of the players and their families attend to collect awards and celebrate their participation and achievements over the season.
Lee Sleight, Managing Director Aggregates at Aggregates Industries, adds: “When we heard how close Coalville Town FC was to raising the necessary £220,000 for their 3G pitch project, we were more than happy to help get them over the finish line. Upon seeing the great work they do for so many children and young adults in the local community, we knew that there was more we could do to support them and were delighted to be able to utilise our expertise in construction materials to donate the much-needed aggregates for their car park.
“We hope that both the funding and materials help the club continue to flourish and offer a greater breadth of services to Coalville locals.”
Government clears funding for TfL to order ten new Elizabeth Line trains to be built at Derby
The government has confirmed funding for TfL to procure 10 new Elizabeth Line trains to be built by Alstom at Derby, providing certainty for the factory.
Following careful consideration of TfL’s business case, the government has approved TfL’s request for funding for the additional trains.
The trains are needed due to strong passenger demand, expected growth on the Elizabeth Line, and will allow TfL to increase capacity on the network in the coming years.
In accordance with section 101 of the Greater London Authority Act 1999, the government will provide TfL with the capital funding requested for the additional trains only.
Alstom has signed a contract worth around €430 (£370) million for 10 new nine-car Aventra trains for Transport for London’s Elizabeth line, along with associated maintenance until 2046.
“We are delighted to now have a confirmed workload for Derby Litchurch Lane and our supply chain across the UK,” said Nick Crossfield, Managing Director UK and Ireland at Alstom.
He added: “The UK remains one of Alstom’s most important global markets.”
East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “The base at Litchurch Lane has been a powerhouse of UK train manufacture for decades and is a key driver of both Derby’s economy and the country when you consider the wider supply chain. “With the continued uncertainty the factory has been facing for so long, due to a gap in orders, news of this multimillion-pound order for the Elizabeth Line is welcome, especially as the new trains will be built at the site itself.”Nottingham College Chair recognised in HM The King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List
The Chair of Governors from Nottingham College has been recognised in HM The King’s Birthday Honours List 2024.
Carole Thorogood, who has been Chair since 2017, has been recognised as Medallist of the Order of the British Empire, in acknowledgement of her services within further education (FE) over the last 18 years.
During her tenure at Nottingham College and before then as Chair of Central College Nottingham, Carole has steered transformational change, overcome an extraordinarily challenging financial landscape for the college and delivered education improvement to benefit Nottingham and beyond.
This has culminated in the delivery of the flagship £58m City Hub in the centre of Nottingham, one of the largest investments of its kind for any further education college in the country. City Hub houses a 200-seat theatre, a gourmet training restaurant and state-of-the-art classrooms and learning facilities for students.
Today, Nottingham College is the only FE college serving the city, with around 21,000 learners enrolling every year. An award-winning education institution, the college prides itself on its responsiveness to the educational and training needs of the region, to ensure students are equipped with the skills and attributes that will enable them to make a positive contribution to the economy and society at large.
Carole said: “This is an absolute honour and of course a complete surprise. During my time at Nottingham College I have been supported by countless colleagues who have shared my passion for the city, for its young people and for the transformational power of further education. This award is testament to the collective impact of those individuals.
“Together, over the last few years, we have steered the college through some choppy waters and have secured its future as a high-performing, first choice education provider for Nottingham, that people can rightly be proud of.
“I’m truly thrilled to have been included in this year’s HM The King’s Birthday Honours List and I draw a huge sense of pride knowing that I have played my part in a much larger ensemble cast, throughout the last 18 years, who have led the charge for further education in this city. I’ve loved every minute of it!”
Janet Smith, CEO and Principal at Nottingham College, said: “Carole is an outstanding Chair of Governors, and this award is testament to her leadership and dedication to the people of Nottingham who choose to study, train and work here.
“Our ambition for Nottingham College is to be recognised as an outstanding provider of choice for education and skills training, and to know that we have the influence and support of our exceptional Chair and Governing Board underpins this goal.
“We are absolutely delighted for Carole and offer our congratulations and thanks for her many years of service to Nottingham College – and we hope many more years to come.”
Europe’s disabled golfers given proper send-off as Derby fundraisers chip in with £15,000
A Derby golf day held to raise money to fund Europe’s challenge in this summer’s Cairns Cup competition has helped send the team off in style – after generous players chipped in with £15,000.
The corporate event, which took place at Morley Hayes, was organised to help with the travel and accommodation costs to ensure 16 players from across the continent can line up against a USA team when the Cup tees off next month.
The Cairns Cup is disability golf’s premier matchplay event and resembles the Ryder Cup, with a three day event with a four-ball, foursomes and singles rounds, contested by golfers with a range of disabilities, including paralysis, cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s.
Among those who will line up in the Cup is vice-captain Kris Aves, who lost the use of his legs when he was struck by a van driven by a terrorist in London in 2017, and James Gallagher, who has cerebral palsy.
Both Kris and James were also present and playing alongside the golfers at the event, which was organised and sponsored by Derbyshire firms Purpose Media and S O’Brien Heating Solutions.
They invited firms across the East Midlands to take part in a day’s worth of golf, ending with a charity auction which added a few more 0’s to the final total.
Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, said: “Our target for the event was £10,000 so everyone delighted that we smashed that and raised such an incredible amount of money.
“Kris gave a very compelling speech during the prize-giving and was out and about on the course, while James was running a putting competition, so everyone got to see what they could do and learn more about disabled golf and the Cairns Cup.
“I’ve been involved with the Cairns Cup for nearly 10 years now and I want to help them. I’ve had two horrendous injuries in the past and so I understand where these guys are and how important being able to play sport is.”
Stephen O’Brien, managing director of S O’Brien Heating Solutions, added: “We had a cracking day, we got a lot of positive feedback and £15,000 raised for the Cairns Cup is not to be sniffed at.
“Kris was fantastic, he knows that his story helps to promote disabled golf and raise awareness of the Cairns Cup. He was a big golfer before his accident and it’s helped him to get back to where he needs to be mentally.
“I think we all understand how sport and getting out into the fresh air helps us with our mental health and he was a great example of that.”
The Cairns Cup takes place Cherry Creek Golf Club in Detroit at the end of July, where the European team will be looking to avenge their defeat from when the Cup was last contested at the Shire Golf Club two years ago.
Dains Group makes Scottish acquisition
The Dains Group has acquired Condies Chartered Accountants in a move that underscores their commitment to the Scottish market.
Condies has offices in Dunfermline, Edinburgh and Dundee and has grown consistently in recent years, driven by a commitment to investment in technology and an experienced and dedicated team.
Pauline Hogg, Managing Partner at Condies, said: “Joining forces with Dains Group is a fantastic opportunity for our team and clients. We are excited about the synergies this partnership will bring and the enhanced capabilities we can offer. Our clients will benefit from the extensive resources and expertise of the Dains Group, while still receiving the personalised service they value.”
Graeme Bryson, Managing Partner of Dains Scotland, added: “This acquisition represents a significant step in our growth strategy, allowing us to extend our reach in Scotland and leverage the exceptional talent at Condies. Together, we are well-positioned to offer an even broader range of services to our clients. I am looking forward to working with Pauline as joint Managing Partner of Dains Scotland.”
“We are proud to welcome Condies to the Dains family,” said Richard McNeilly, CEO of Dains Group. “Extending the incredible work done by Graeme Bryson and the Dains Scotland business is a fantastic opportunity. Pauline and the team at Condies are the blueprint for the perfect acquisition with a total focus on client support backed up by exceptional talent. Working in parallel with the Group, the team are in an amazing position to offer an even broader range of services to our clients.”
Luke Kingston, Managing Partner at Horizon Capital, said “This is another example of an excellent addition to the Dains group, and we are delighted to have supported Richard and the team on this acquisition. With group revenues now over £70m it is clear that Dains is one of the leading operators in its sector.”
Dains were advised by DSW (financial and tax due diligence), Forward Corporate Finance (Financial Modelling), Deloitte (Tax structuring) and CMS (Legal). Condies were advised by Curle Stewart (Legal).
Back-to-back deals see full occupancy at Evelyn Street Industrial Estate
FHP have finalised on the remaining two units at Beeston’s Evelyn Street Industrial Estate, Southwest of Nottingham City Centre.
Both units comprise circa 5,500ft² of clear span warehouse / industrial space benefitting from office and ancillary areas. In order to achieve an attractive rental figure and set a new headline rent throughout Evelyn Street Industrial Estate, FHP’s client carried out a refurbishment to secure a rental of £8.00 per ft².
Initial interest in the units was slower than anticipated, FHP noted, although over time it was evident that the desire and need for circa 5,000ft² units had shifted and increased, generating a number of enquiries leading to several offers brought forward on both units.
Mission Room Ltd and Vaunt Design Ltd are the latest occupiers to secure a unit on Evelyn Street, with a further deal being agreed by joint agents CPP, Sean Bremner, for Unit 37.
Amy Howard, surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, said: “It was a great result to get both of these deals over the line for our client. After a slow start with interest, it was certainly challenging, but this quickly changed with an increase in enquiries and all three units going under offer within two months of each other.
“Securing a new headline rent for the site was also a positive for our client and further
highlights the industrial market rental tones rising due to limited stock availability. Secondary industrial units of this size bracket are achieving £8.00 to £8.50 per ft², it is evident there is limited availability of units within this size range as demand still continues to be on the rise.
“Both Vaunt Design Ltd and Mission Room Ltd worked with our client from initial discussions and developed a landlord-tenant relationship which is key to driving deals across the line. It was a delight to work alongside both tenants and I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”
Sean Bremner, director at CPP, said: “Great to see Evelyn Street back to 100% occupancy. Working alongside FHP, we advised our clients on the essential refurbishment works and they have been rewarded for their investment. Enquiry levels got stronger with multiple
parties pressing to secure the final unit, reinforcing the growth in the rental tone. A fantastic result for the estate.”
Derby businessman named in King’s birthday honours list
Entrepreneur Dean Jackson, whose innovative technology has helped some of the world’s greatest Olympians win gold medals, is picking up a gong of his own after being awarded an MBE in the King’s birthday honours.
Dean is the founder and owner of global triathlon and cycling brand HUUB, whose products have been worn by athletes including the Brownlee Brothers, Sir Jason Kenney and David Weir as well as countless amateur competitors.
Now Dean, who left Noel Baker School with just two O-Levels, will be heading to Buckingham Palace later in the year to pick up an MBE for his services to business and innovation.
But even Dean admits to suffering from imposter syndrome, initially believing the letter informing him of the honour to be an elaborate hoax.
He said: “I found myself checking the phone number on the letter, I even sniffed the paper it was written on, because I couldn’t actually believe it could be true.
“I am incredibly proud, humbled and excited – I’m just a normal bloke from Derby who is working in his passion and loves making athletes faster and better. This is recognition for the amazingly smart people I get to work with every day, who help me create some exciting products.
“I have always wanted to make my family and parents proud and I know this will have surpassed all their expectations. My mother passed away last October, and I hope she’s looking down as gobsmacked as I am.”
Dean famously launched HUUB from his kitchen table creating pioneering technology to measure active drag and create performance-enhancing products for swimmers, runners and cyclists.
The company, which has a Queen’s Award for innovation and two patents for its technology, has collaborated with experts and world-class athletes to create products for sporting participants of all ages and abilities.
In addition, Dean has also worked closely with athletes including Olympic gold medalists Alex Yee, Georgia Taylor Brown and Jess Learmonth, two-times triathlon world champion Helen Jenkins and he has supported world record attempts by local athlete Leigh Timmis.
Throughout his career with HUUB, Dean has been a dedicated champion of Derby, helping to bring events to the city such as the Jenson Button Trust Triathlon and the annual Brownlee Foundation Triathlon which is enjoyed by 1,200 key stage two school pupils.
Dean also launched Derby City Cycling – the city’s first road cycling team – and the HUUB Wattbike squad made up of multiple national and world champions, world tour riders and UCI World Cup winners. With the rest of the HUUB team he has supported the Derby 10k and a host of comic and sport relief events.
He added: “It’s not bad for a lad from Alvaston – who probably had a collection of neurodiversities that allowed him to see the world in a more creative way.
“My younger self wouldn’t believe I’m getting an MBE and going to Buckingham Palace. I’d love to put my arm round that young lad and tell him that while he may not have a string of qualifications it’s how he sees and interprets the world that will make him shine.
“My family are the greatest believers in me and my customers are my greatest supporters. Thank you to my family and especially my wife Angela and the amazing team of people at Huub – none of this would have been possible without them.”
East Midlands manufacturers see boost to growth prospects
East Midlands manufacturers are seeing a much stronger picture as they enter the second half of the year with business confidence increasing and the sector forecast to outpace the economy overall in 2024.
The findings come in the Q2 Manufacturing Outlook survey published by Make UK. According to the survey, both output and orders have picked up substantially compared to the first quarter and are set to strengthen in the next three months in line with the national picture.
The East Midlands in particular is set to benefit from increased production in the automotive and food and drink sectors which have a strong presence in the region. This better picture is translating into increased recruitment intentions with job prospects especially strong compared to historical levels.
Business confidence has also risen to equal the highest level recorded since the survey started measuring the indicator in 2014. The only previous occasion it reached the current level was during the immediate post covid rebound.
The survey also asked companies to list their top three priorities for the next Government. More than two thirds of manufacturers (69.1%) said delivering an industrial strategy was the top priority, more than half (54.2%) said strengthening EU/UK relations, while almost half (44%) said reducing the business tax burden. This was followed by investment in national infrastructure (31.5%) and reforming the Apprentice Levy (24.1%).
Make UK is forecasting that manufacturing will grow by 1.2% in 2024 but moderate to 0.8% in 2025. GDP will grow by 0.9% in 2024 and 2% in 2025.
Chris Corkan, Region Director for the Midlands at Make UK, said: “After the economic and political shocks of the last few years there is now strong confidence among manufacturers in the East Midlands. At long last, companies can see concrete signs of growth and a much better economic outlook ahead.
“With prices cooling and, potential cuts in interest rates to come, the next Government must capitalise on this scenario by delivering a modern, long term industrial strategy which goes beyond the 2030s and has cross Government support.”
Practical completion achieved on more units at Dove Valley Park
Clowes together with their lead contractor, Roe Developments have achieved practical completion at plot 10B and 3A at Dove Valley Park, Foston as part of the multi-million-pound property deal with Hines.
Dove Valley Park’s site owners, Clowes Developments instructed Roe Developments to build 10B (152,466 sq ft) and 3B (110,292 sq ft) stand-alone units as part of the 1.36 million sq ft portfolio with global real estate investment, development and property manager, Hines.
10B unit sits on the southern side of the business park whilst 3A is located on the northern side next to GXO.
The brand-new commercial units were designed by IMA architects and comprise of single storey warehouse with office and welfare space split over two floors at the front of the building. The units benefit from a large secure yard with level-access loading bays and docks.
Both plots have considerable onsite parking facilities with disabled bays and EV charging stations. Warehouse roofs were designed to carry photo voltaic panels subject to the occupier’s requirements. Additionally, these units have floor to ceiling double glazed in the warehouse area and 10% roof lights, creating a brighter environment for warehouse workers.
Marc Freeman, Director at Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd, said: “Clowes are pleased to deliver the last two units for Hines’ growing portfolio in the East Midlands and now look forward to delivering the ‘final phase’ of development at Dove Valley Park.
“Clowes together with IMA Architects have recently submitted a planning application to South Derbyshire District Council for the 35.29-acre site creating over half a million square feet of employment space for B2, B8, with ancillary E(g) use. Four units of varying sizes will be created to meet market demand for quality industrial space, along with the necessary associated hard and soft landscaping, car parking and infrastructure.
“In addition, a new Innovation Centre will be created that will serve as a central hub for all businesses in the local vicinity. The aim is to draw people together and provide spaces for gatherings, along with informal meeting space and access to external areas. The Innovation Centre will also serve as a space for start-up businesses to begin and has been developed in consultation with The University of Derby.”
