North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has granted planning permission to build 17 town houses on land either side of the Royal Hotel in Ashby de la Zouch.
The application was reported to a meeting of the district council’s planning committee in August 2023. At that meeting, members resolved to grant planning permission, subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement – the obligations of which would secure the renovation of the hotel.
After negotiation with the hotel’s owner – Oakland Hotels Limited – the Section 106 agreement was completed on Tuesday 23 July 2024.
The development and sale of the town houses on land surrounding the hotel will now fund its renovation, and ultimately bring it back into use.
The Royal Hotel closed in 2018 due to financial pressures and the need for investment to bring the building up to modern standards, and has remained empty ever since.
Since its closure, the owners installed CCTV across the site to monitor both the building and the car park, boarded up the windows and installed fencing around the whole site.
Conservation officers from NWLDC have inspected the building regularly to ensure it has been maintained in good condition whilst closed.
However, the Grade II listed building was included on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2021.
Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: “Since the Royal Hotel’s closure in 2018, North West Leicestershire District Council has carried out a huge amount of work with the owners to not only protect and maintain the building whilst it stood empty, but also find a viable way to bring it back into use.
“The planning permission granted to Oakland Hotels Limited paves the way for the hotel’s continued refurbishment and eventual reopening.
“It also demonstrates the owner’s commitment to ensuring that the hotel remains an important and prominent part of Ashby’s heritage.
“I am delighted that the Royal Hotel’s future should now be secure, and that local people will be able to enjoy and appreciate this historic building for generations to come.”
Nottingham workflow automation specialist expands further into Asia-Pacific region
Nottingham-based workflow automation specialist, Intoware, is set to expand further into the Asia-Pacific region after securing a distribution partner based in Singapore.
The company has joined forces with TPM Solutions Pte Ltd – which also has offices in America and Spain – to drive sales of its flagship digital workflow platform, WorkfloPlus across the APAC region.
Keith Tilley, Chief Executive of Intoware, said: “Our new partnership with TPM Solutions represents a significant milestone in our global expansion efforts.
“This collaboration allows us to increase our presence further into the Asia-Pacific region, a crucial market for continued growth. By building on our existing relationships with partners in this part of the world, we are not only broadening our geographical footprint, but also enhancing our ability to showcase Intoware’s technology to a diverse range of new markets.
“Our partnership with TPM Solutions underscores our commitment to delivering digital transformation services to a global audience, reaching more customers and industries than ever before.”
David Turner, Managing Director of TPM Solutions, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Intoware and to be playing a part in helping the company achieve its ambitious growth plans by combining its groundbreaking technology with our local expertise and market knowledge.
“WorkfloPlus offers a whole host of benefits for companies across many sectors, from energy to transport and manufacturing to oil and gas. Its capabilities in streamlining operations, enhancing productivity and facilitating digital transformation are impressive, and we are confident customers throughout the Asia Pacific will relish what Intoware can bring to their businesses.”
Midlands space innovation recognised at Farnborough Airshow
The achievements of eight innovative projects that are pivoting Midlands manufacturers into the high-growth space industry as part of a £1m R&D programme were recognised at Farnborough Airshow.
The Pivot into Space programme, which is being led by the Midlands Aerospace Alliance with funding from the UK Space Agency – matched by industry – has already created a launchpad into the space industry for nine small supply chain companies of a size that would normally face significant barriers to entering this demanding sector. The programme has not only provided grant funding worth £18,000 – £50,000 to each company, but also valuable technical and commercial guidance, access to industry contacts, exclusive events, and networking opportunities.
The fast-track programme means that, following a rigorous assessment process by technology experts, the companies selected for the programme will have transformed their existing capabilities and technologies into potential solutions for space industry challenges within 12-18 months. These solutions will then have a wide range of applications in the UK’s growing space markets including use on spacecraft, launchers and ground support equipment. Even though the projects are only part-way through, so great is the potential that several have already attracted customer interest, with some customers already actively guiding and supporting them.
Now, as the global industry gathers for the largest industry event of the year, three of the Pivot into Space companies have taken to the stage at a dedicated technology conference at Farnborough Airshow to share their initial results. Burcas, PAK Engineering, and SHD Composites each presented case studies showing how they have been transforming their specialist knowledge and skills to provide solutions to technology challenges faced by the space sector.
Farnborough Airshow has proved the perfect opportunity to recognise the progress of these innovative projects as they enter their advanced stages. With 74,000 visitors expected to visit throughout the week, it was an optimum opportunity for these companies to showcase how their innovative capabilities can potentially transform the space sector.
Antonia Yendell, Head of Space Ecosystem at the UK Space Agency, said: “Pivot Into Space is one of a number of initiatives that support the UK’s regional Space Clusters to build further on their strengths – in this case, the Midlands Space Cluster’s rich heritage in engineering and innovation. By backing innovative companies across the Midlands to unlock new opportunities and access growing markets, we want to kickstart economic growth, enhance our space capabilities and strengthen our national space ecosystem.”
“We’ve been really excited by how many small Midlands manufacturers have come forward with novel ideas to help the space industry solve a range of technical problems,” said Andrew Mair, Chief Executive, Midlands Aerospace Alliance. “The Midlands is a rich pool of engineering talent keen to diversify into the high-growth markets of the future. With great support from the UK Space Agency, Pivot into Space is fast becoming a trailblazing programme that is helping our companies build on what they’re good at to create new business opportunities in new markets.”
Jobs on the line at Derby warehouse
Jobs could be lost at a JD Sports warehouse on Derby Commercial Park.
It follows the retailer signing a 20-year lease on the 514,000 sq ft distribution centre just three years ago.
Now, the company has entered a period of consultation with staff as it reviews the future of the Derby site.
A JD Group spokesperson told the BBC: “We have entered into a period of consultation with colleagues based at our Derby distribution centre.
“This is in relation to a review of the Derby distribution centre. We are doing all we can to look after those colleagues impacted and recognise this may be an unsettling time for them.”
Elsewhere in Derby, it was recently announced that JD will more than double the size of its existing 9,397 sq ft presence at Derbion. Set to open towards the end of this year, the new 20,175 sq ft flagship store will showcase brands including Nike, Adidas, The North Face, Jordan and EA7.
Manufacturing output expectations strongest since 2022
Optimism among manufacturers fell slightly in July, after rising in April for the first time in nearly three years, according to the CBI’s latest quarterly Industrial Trends Survey.
Output volumes were broadly unchanged in the quarter to July, following a similar result in the three months to June, and under-performed expectations for modest growth. However, manufacturers continue to expect output to increase over the next three months, with growth expectations the strongest since March 2022.
Total new orders fell in the quarter to July but are expected to be broadly stable over the next three months. Inventory building is expected to provide some support to output in the months ahead. Stocks of work in progress are expected to rise at the fastest pace in over two years, with stocks of raw materials and finished goods also set to increase.
Average cost growth accelerated compared with April and remained elevated compared to historical norms. Cost growth is expected to slow in the quarter to October, while remaining historically strong. Domestic and export price inflation also accelerated but are both expected to slow in the next three months.
Meanwhile, manufacturers expect to raise their headcount in the next three months (and at the fastest pace for a year), and investment intentions for the year ahead have generally improved.
Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “Sentiment among manufacturers has cooled a little over the past few months, as output growth consistently underperformed expectations. But the near-term outlook for the sector remains positive amid an ongoing recovery in the wider UK economy.
“Manufacturers appear confident that output growth will pick up in the quarter ahead, with expectations the strongest in over two years. Firms are looking to increase stock levels to meet expected demand. And the share of manufacturers working below capacity has fallen sharply over the last quarter, feeding through to a more positive outlook for both hiring and investment.
“Last week’s Kings Speech, with welcome measures to reform planning and speed up approvals for major infrastructure projects, has the potential to give businesses the confidence they need to grow, invest and drive economic growth. And as the economy picks up steam, firms will want to see a relentless focus on delivery from the new government, to turn proposed measures into swift and bold action.”
The survey, based on the responses of 257 manufacturing firms, found:
- Output volumes were broadly unchanged in the quarter to July (weighted balance of -3%, from +3% in the three months to June). Firms expect volumes to grow in the next three months (+25%), the strongest expectations since March 2022.
- Output rose in 6 out of 17 sub-sectors, with growth in the motor vehicles & transport equipment, chemicals, mechanical engineering and electrical goods sub-sectors offsetting declines in furniture & upholstery and metal manufacturing sub-sectors.
- Total new orders fell in July, at a similar pace to the previous quarter (balance of -9% from -6% in April). Domestic orders fell through the quarter (-15% from -6%), while the volume of new export orders was broadly unchanged (+3% from -14%). Manufacturers expect total new orders to be essentially unchanged over the next three months.
- Business sentiment fell in July, after rising in April for the first time in nearly three years (balance of -9% from +9% in April). Export optimism for the year was flat after rising last quarter (0% from +6%).
- Investment intentions for the year ahead generally strengthened compared with April. Manufacturers expect to raise investment in product & process innovation (a balance of +18% was the strongest since January 2022, up from +15% in April), in training & retraining (+7%, from +1%), and in plant & machinery (+6%, from +2%). Investment in buildings is set to fall (-11%, from -3%).
- The main constraint on investment was uncertainty about demand (cited by 44% of manufacturers), followed by inadequate net return (35%), a shortage of labour (20%), and a shortage of internal finance (19%). Concerns around the cost of finance have retreated from a 33-year high set in January (excluding the pandemic period) but remain double the long run average (10%).
- Average costs rose rapidly in the quarter to July (balance of +52%, from +39% in April; long-run average of +18%). Costs growth is expected to remain elevated in the quarter to October (+36%).
- Average domestic prices increased over the three months to July (balance of +15%, from +10% in April). Export price inflation also accelerated from April (+22% from +9%, and the fastest pace in over a year). Both domestic and export price growth are expected to slow in the next three months (+2% and +6%, respectively).
- Stocks of work in progress (balance of +4%) rose marginally in the quarter to July, while stocks of finished goods (+2%) and of raw materials (-1%) were broadly stable.
- Manufacturers expect stocks of work in progress (+13%) to rise at the fastest pace in over two years during the next three months, with stocks of raw materials (+7%) and of finished goods (+5%) also set to increase.
- Numbers employed were unchanged in the quarter to July, after falling in April (balance of 0% from -6%). Firms expect numbers employed to rise modestly in the next three months (+16%).
East Midlands businesses urged to benefit from government training programme
Small and medium sized businesses in the East Midlands are being offered their last opportunity in 2024 to take advantage of a government training scheme delivered by De Montfort University’s Leicester Castle Business School (LCBS).
The Help to Grow: Management scheme is delivered via Small Business Charter accredited business schools for companies with ambitions to scale up and grow.
LCBS has helped over 200 local SMEs realise their growth ambitions since launching the course in 2020. The programme, worth £7,500, is 90% funded by the government with the remaining 10% paid for by an LCBS bursary.
A few places are still available for the upcoming course, which will take place over 13 weeks, beginning with an introductory online session on September 2nd.
The programme will be delivered via a combination of nine online sessions and four in-person modules at Harborough Innovation Centre. This hybrid approach offers participants the opportunity to forge in-person relationships with professionals with similar concerns and challenges while maintaining the convenience of a predominately online format.
The course is designed to fit in alongside the demands of full-time work and the tutors assigned to each module are professionals with real-world experience in their specialist areas which include digital transformation, winning new markets, marketing strategy, employee engagement and financial management.
As well as the weekly sessions focusing on one topic, participants are assigned a mentor to support them in creating a bespoke Growth Action Plan. Peer-to-peer learning is also a key part of Help to Grow: Management, with professionals forming valuable support networks that last beyond the duration of the course.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming participants to our third and final intake of 2024,” said LCBS’s Help to Grow: Management programme director, Dr Danny Buckley. “As always, we’re anticipating great demand for the course, so we encourage interested parties to secure their place as soon as possible to end 2024 on a high and enter the new year armed with the resources and skills they need to make 2025 their best year yet.”
This chance to grow their business is open to any decision-making professional with at least one direct report in a UK-based business employing between 5 and 249 staff, which has been operational for at least a year.
2023 participant Mark Massetti, Managing Director of Watford Control Instruments Limited, said: “The course was a complete game changer for me. As business owners, we think we know stuff but we don’t have any real way of benchmarking ourselves.
“Unsurprisingly, and without a doubt, the content on digitisation was absolutely transformative for our business. We have saved hours of staff resources and these can now be redeployed into looking after our customers or generating revenue. I also found the modules on marketing really well explained and very helpful.”
Nationally, 90% of participants reported improved leadership and management of their business six months following Help to Grow: Management. Not only that, 80% cited improvements in employee engagement in the same period.
Following the programme, participants have access to alumni events, and many continue to engage with the peer network they establish as course members.
“Implementing the process of asking how efficient and streamlined the business is and taking action has been a big takeout from this for me,” adds Mark Massetti. “Also, it was great to meet the other participants – we had some really good times on the course!”
26 acre Sherwood Oaks development site sold in multi-million pound deal
With a multi-million pound deal, heb have announced one of the region’s biggest land transactions.
Acting on behalf of Arron Kendall of Moorfields, as Administrator for Sherwood Oaks Homes Ltd and Sherwood Oaks Holdings Ltd, heb Surveyors have confirmed completion of the sale of the 26 acre Sherwood Oaks development site to Persimmon Homes.
The sale comprises some 30 fully finished, high quality houses together with the remaining part-serviced development land which has consent for a further 283 new homes.
Chesterfield-based Stancliffe Homes have simultaneously acquired the completed dwellings from Persimmon, and are able to immediately begin the process of selling individual homes to occupiers.
Persimmon will shortly recommence construction of the remainder of the development, which has been re-branded as Regency Grange. A sales office is expected to open for business this August.
“We are delighted to secure a successful disposal of this substantial and complicated site for our client Arron Kendall at Moorfields, and in as short a time as possible,” said Robert Maxey at heb Chartered Surveyors.
“We have been acutely aware that the local community has been keen to see this stalled development brought back to life, and it is always satisfying to assist with bringing much needed new family housing to the market.”
Gareth Hankin, regional MD of Persimmon Homes, said: “We are really excited to be bringing the Persimmon brand to this part of Mansfield. It really is a great location – within easy reach of the town centre and with a wealth of local amenities. On top of that there is fantastic open countryside just minutes away.”
“Interest in the existing houses is already strong, due in part to the fantastic build quality on offer,” added Sam Jones of Stancliffe Homes. “Our reputation for delivering quality is incredibly important to us. When became aware of the opportunity it was immediately apparent that the high specification of the houses was a great fit with our brand.”
Future secured for iconic dancehall with 100 year history
One of Nottingham’s best loved venues with a history stretching back almost 100 years is set to open its doors once again this September.
The 2,500-capacity venue, most recently known as Pryzm, will be returning to its original incarnation of “The Palais” ahead of celebrating its 100th year in 2025.
Plans are already underway by new owners DHP Family for a rejuvenation of the iconic space on Lower Parliament Street, with a new stage, PA, and other works to restore the venue to its historically high standard.
The Palais is set to re-open its doors from mid-September, providing a diverse array of events for Nottingham and bringing dancing back to its well-trodden dancefloor.
The Palais de Danse first opened 24 April 1925 as a dance hall and billiard saloon. The dance hall was considered to be one of the finest of its kind outside London and its exterior architectural features were distinctive, particularly the large ornate globe. It hosted dancing in the evening and daily afternoon tea dances, as well as private hire every Tuesday and Friday.
During the late 1980s, it reinvented itself as a nightclub, most well-known for hosting the popular TV show Hitman and Her, and has been known by several names including the Ritzy and Oceana.
Now the venue prepares for its next chapter, set to once again become an important cultural asset for Nottingham as an event space for private hire, with the diary open for bookings.
The Palais manager Sam Dye said: “As a local business deeply rooted in Nottingham’s music scene, we feel it’s only right to recognise the heritage of the venue and revive Nottingham’s original dancehall. So many generations of families have danced at this iconic venue, so we’re delighted to be bringing it back into use once again.”
Olympics springboard doubling of export documents
In the run-up to the Paris 2024 Olympics, East Midlands Chamber has seen the number of documents it processes to take items to the EU double, compared to the same time in 2023.
In July the Chamber saw a surge in requests for ATA Carnets – a travel document required by border officials when temporarily exporting items like sports equipment – twice as many as July 2024.
East Midlands Chamber International Trade Manager Lucy Granger said: “The Olympics seem to have heightened people’s awareness of the documents they need to have when exporting items like sporting equipment to the EU.
“In the same way an Olympic athlete doesn’t want to be told at the border that their javelin can’t go with them to France, people are realising – as we’ve seen by the doubling of requests we’ve had this July, compared to last – that to temporarily export items like a drum kit to play in a band, they’re going to need this paperwork sorting.
“An ATA Carnet tells those guarding international borders that the drum kit is going, then coming back to the UK.
“This summer we’ve had requests for things ranging from canoes to D-Day beacons and even a Porsche 991.”
4D Medicine raises £3.4m
4D Medicine – a Nottingham-based company whose innovative biomaterial has potential to be used for a wide range of 3D printed implants and surgical devices – has raised £3.4m ($4.4m) in a Series A investment.
The funding round was led by Oshen Holdings and backed by DSW Ventures, SFC Capital, Boundary Capital and private investors including several leading scientists and surgeons. It will enable the company to complete pre-clinical testing of its first product range and seek FDA clearance for entry into the US market.
A spin-out from the Universities of Birmingham and Warwick, 4D has developed a resorbable biomaterial, 4Degra, that is being used to develop implants such as orthopaedic devices or soft tissue scaffolds to help patients recovering from surgery or injuries. Preliminary testing has shown that as healing progresses, the biomaterial gradually erodes and is resorbed by normal metabolic processes as natural tissue grows back in its place.
4Degra promises some key advantages over existing resorbable biomaterials used for implants. With some materials, the entire product breaks down rapidly, creating acidic by-products that can cause pain, inflammation and cysts. By contrast 4Degra degrades gradually, starting from the surface, and does not release harmful acidic by-products.
4Degra can be 3D printed to create complex geometries. As it can be produced in both soft and hard formulations, it also has the potential to be used both for flexible products such as films and membranes, or where a more rigid product is required such as plates, pins and bone scaffolds.
4D Medicine was founded in 2020. The latest funding brings the total raised to date to £5m. The company is now preparing to raise a Series B investment early next year.
Philip Smith, the company’s CEO, said: “I would like to thank all our investors for their trust and support. Our success in continuing to raise investment despite the difficult market conditions over the last few years is testament to their belief in the company’s commercial potential and our world-class team.
“The funds will be used to complete the pre-clinical testing of our first medical device product range and our preparations for entry into the orthopaedic market.”
Didier Cowling, Partner at Oshen Holdings, added: “We were delighted to lead this deal and we look forward to working with the 4D team. The company is now poised to make a substantial impact in the bioresorbable medical device space. We believe that 4Degra is a real game-changer that is enabling 4D to develop novel bioresorbable medical devices with unique properties.”
Doug Quinn, Partner at DSW Ventures, said: “4D’s novel biomaterial platform opens up new possibilities for implants and devices. The company has already attracted attention from large industry players including a potential acquirer. This funding will enable it to apply for regulatory clearance in the US and target opportunities in the £5bn market for resorbable medical devices.”
Jason Druker, Portfolio Manager at SFC Capital, said: “We are delighted to refresh our commitment to Phil and the 4D team. Since we first invested four years ago, they have made great progress and we’re excited to see the impact of their first medical device products.”
A team from Addleshaw Goddard led by George Danczak provided corporate legal advice to the company, with Hill Dickinson advising on matters including the requirements of the National Security Investment Act. Eleanor Baird at Weightmans advised DSW Ventures and Mercia.
Vision shared for future of Castle Meadow Campus
An event at Castle Meadow Campus hosted by G F Tomlinson and Henry Brothers Construction provided an opportunity for Fbe and ProCon members and guests to look at the new University of Nottingham city centre redevelopment site.
The collaborative event was held at the Grade II Listed site where current works include the transformation of the former HMRC headquarters – the Central Building being delivered by G F Tomlinson, and the remodelling of Buildings D and F, by Henry Brothers, into modern office spaces.
Encompassing seven buildings, the complete redevelopment is set to establish the Castle Meadow Campus as a vibrant hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, featuring state-of-the-art facilities for its community of students, academics, and industry partners.
60 members of the Fbe (Forum for the Built Environment) East Midlands and ProCon Nottinghamshire – both of which are professional regional construction and property groups – attended the event, and were treated to a morning of insightful presentations, networking opportunities and firsthand experiences of the ongoing redevelopment works.
While enjoying breakfast sandwiches and hot refreshments, representatives from the University of Nottingham, Arup, and Bond Bryan provided detailed site plans, offering a comprehensive overview of the campus scope and objectives.
Visitors were given guided tours of the current works by G F Tomlinson and Henry Brothers, providing a unique insight into the intricate renovation processes. A highlight of the event was the demonstration of the large-scale Projection Augmented Relief Model (PARM) by Dr. Gary Priestnall from the University’s School of Geography. The interactive 3D model of Nottingham city centre showcased the innovative use of digital and data tools in urban planning and development.
Led by Director, Prof. Paul Grainge, University of Nottingham, ‘City as Lab’ also presented work on leveraging digital and data innovation to address real-world challenges in the Nottingham city region, emphasising the role of the campus as a catalyst for technological advancement and community engagement.
G F Tomlinson, a longstanding partner of the University of Nottingham, is leading the refurbishment of the Central Building, including the complex replacement of the tensile fabric roof and the addition of a new mezzanine level, designed to enhance the building’s functionality and sustainability.
Adrian Grocock, Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: “The event at Castle Meadow Campus was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the extensive work being done to transform the Central Building.
“We were delighted to share our progress with the community and our industry peers and we are extremely proud to contribute our expertise to such a landmark project.
“We have a long-standing working relationship with the University of Nottingham, with this being our 8th scheme working together. It is a real pleasure to combine our university and heritage experience to help the university to deliver another world class facility.”
Henry Brothers Construction, alongside a consortium of industry experts, is nearing completion of the remodelling works on Buildings D and F. Managing Director of Nottingham-based Henry Brothers Construction, Ian Taylor said: “The Castle Meadow Campus is a hugely exciting project for the University of Nottingham and for the city as a whole and we are proud to be playing a part in it.
“Henry Brothers has extensive experience of working with universities across the Midlands to improve their facilities. This is our first contract with the University of Nottingham, and we are really pleased to see the partnership creating such fantastic new facilities in our home city. They will be a tremendous asset to the community, and we are honoured to have jointly hosted this event for our peers in the local construction and property sector.”
James Hale, Building and Design Lead for Castle Meadow Campus, University of Nottingham, said: “We’re pleased to be working together with our partners on the Castle Meadow Campus development. The chance to welcome ProCon and Fbe members and guests to showcase the great work that’s already happening to transform the site was excellent.
“We’re pleased that members and guests showed a keen interest in this historically significant site. With more work to come, we are determined to create an accessible and sustainable world-class campus environment.”
Revenue and profits grow at Derby recruitment group
Revenue and profits are on the rise at RTC Group, the Derby-based engineering and technical recruitment group, according to unaudited results for the six months ended 30 June 2024.
The first half of 2024 saw revenue increase to £49m, up 7.5% compared to the same period in 2023. Profit before tax, meanwhile, grew to £1.2m from £1m.Andy Pendlebury, Chairman and Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to announce that the first half of 2024 saw a further enhancement in performance for the Group, building upon the success achieved in 2023.
“Throughout the first half of 2024, we have continued to make investments in training our people, increasing our headcount, and developing our systems and technology solutions to drive productivity, elevate our client offerings, and secure future business opportunities.
“Our balance sheet remains in a very healthy position with no term debt and no borrowings other than lease liabilities.
“Whilst we are in the early days of a new Government, which inevitably brings some uncertainty regarding long-term strategy, we are encouraged by the proposed 10-year infrastructure plan outlined in Labour’s manifesto, which includes significant investment in the sectors where we are focused.
“Combined with anticipated improvements in the UK’s macro-economic conditions, such as lower inflation and subsequently decreasing interest rates, we are optimistic that this will create an environment where our business can continue to grow.
“Despite the ongoing uncertainties facing the recruitment sector, we remain encouraged and optimistic about our short, medium, and long-term prospects.”
Ground engineering contractor delivers “resilient” results
Van Elle, the ground engineering contractor, has “delivered a resilient performance” in the year ended 30 April 2024 (FY2024).
Results for the year show growth in pre-tax profit, which stood at £5.6m, up from £5.4m in the year prior. Revenue, however, decreased from £148.7m in the year prior to £139.5m, though this was in line with expectations.The business was hit by the impact of a softer housing market, though partially mitigated this through a diverse customer base including partnership and affordable housing customers.
Looking ahead, market conditions are expected to remain challenging throughout the remainder of calendar year 2024.Mark Cutler, Chief Executive, said: “Van Elle delivered a resilient performance in the year, benefitting from the breadth of its capabilities and end markets, despite very challenging market conditions across most sectors.
“The Group has continued to expand its offering, grow geographically and enter new sectors, through the acquisition of Rock & Alluvium, its strategy for the water and energy sectors, and the establishment of rail operations in Canada.
“We start the new financial year with a strong order book and multiple framework agreements. Our focus on key customer partnerships and strategic markets is expected to deliver significant growth opportunities over the medium term.”
Five-step plan revealed to supercharge small business exports
A new paper geared at unleashing a new wave of small business exporters has been released – setting out five priorities to make that goal a reality.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) was asked to lead on an SME Export Taskforce by Jonathan Reynolds MP when he was Shadow Business and Trade Secretary, to address the fact that only 10 per cent of small firms trade internationally.
The taskforce, which features input from companies such as Amazon UK, EY, and Santander, found that the current rules make trading difficult, that Government support is confusing and not always helpful, and the firms that do trade do not have adequate advice.
The paper highlighted five key priorities:
- A cross-Whitehall approach to policy: International trade should be made a priority for all Government departments. Domestic and trade policies must be aligned to ensure the UK maximises the benefits from Free Trade Agreements. This means other Whitehall departments and regulators need to be more aware of trade goals and actively contribute to trade negotiations.
- An open relationship with business: Legislation and trade deals should be developed through open and honest discussions that prioritise the needs of small businesses. A Senior Exports Council should also be created to ensure continuous and meaningful engagement with the business community.
- Global leadership on digital trade: The UK should lead the way on paperless trading across the global supply chain.
- Open to export from day one: SMEs should receive immediate support when they start trading internationally, including robust expert guidance and efforts to overcome mindset-related barriers.
- Addressing the finance gap: Improving SME access to trade finance and reducing the financial barriers to trade.
Businesses connect with students in innovative work experience programme
A team of volunteers headed up by Nicola Moss of Moss Social and Lucy Wake of Thinking Space have delivered an innovative work experience placement for no less than 12 year 10 students from Welland Park Academy, Market Harborough.
Supported by the team at Harborough District Council for the space to host at Harborough Innovation Centre along with Welcomm Communications donating 12 laptops for the students they planned to support, communication has been key to this project. It’s a required skill in business and indeed the focus for the week at The Business Hub work experience program.
The students addressed communication via creating flyers for a networking event. They encouraged businesses to attend by telephoning, emailing and by walking around and knocking on office doors at the Innovation Centre (prearranged and accompanied) to speak with different business people about their sector, their career paths and inviting them along to ‘Cake and Careers’.
A key part of the week was developing a website for The Business Hub, guided and supported by Martin Robson of Roman Britons.
They created a plan for the networking event and communicated to each other who would be responsible for which task. They prepared for the event, did a meet and greet as their guests arrived and chatted over common ground. The students who walked in quiet on Monday morning were professional, conversational, confident and curious. They listened and were interested in what these business people had to share and asked intelligent questions.
John from Design375 said: “It was excellent to have an in-person visit requesting us to join in with the networking event, that takes a lot of courage and the students did themselves very proud stepping out of their comfort zone. Well done.”
They now have lots of business connections who are excited to come into school next term to deliver career talks, support mock interviews and more.
Friday saw the students round off the busy week with a presentation on diversity inclusion from Marc Rowley of HIT Leadership leading to real in-depth discussions.
Marc reflected: “Excellent workshop that engaged the students and made them feel part of something bigger than themselves.”
Topics addressed during the week were sustainability, delivered by James Cox of Unyte Group; marketing with an insightful look at the way charities address marketing from Tim Gorman-Powell from Hope Against Cancer; a masterclass in website creation from Martin Robson who also delivered insight into AI and what it might mean for future jobs and their workplace.
Abigail Brown of Oak Wealth Planning and the Market Harborough Business Network spoke about the value of networking, particularly for small businesses. David Scott of Rambutan cemented the communication piece and how key it is to listen in a methodical way to capture all the data in order to make decisions, and Marc supported with understanding the value differences bring to team working. Along with team-building activities facilitated by Lucy, these students were challenged to think creatively to build a collaborative outcome.
With a supportive network of volunteers, thank yous were also given to Carmen Harrington of Inspired to Change, Linda Dominiak of Tatum Financial Services, Michaela Forty of Family Care Advice Ltd, Cameron Meany of Tax Assist Accountants Market Harborough, Rupert Turton of Action Coach Oakham, Kettering and Market Harborough, and Jack Khurana of Spencer West LLP.
Nottingham care home operator secures funding for expansion
A family-owned Nottingham care home operator has acquired a home in Solihull with the support of a seven-figure funding package from HSBC UK.
Sherwood-headquartered Affinity Care Consortium will use the funding to continue its nationwide growth strategy, supported by the acquisition of the 50-bed Silver Birches care home. Silver Birches will undergo a full estate review, with plans to upgrade and modernise the home, including a full redecoration and technological advancements.
The acquisition comes as part of Affinity Care Consortium’s plan to open six homes in the West Midlands by 2025, in addition to its existing site in Coventry, Coundon Manor, as well as five other services across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
As a result, Affinity Care Consortium is forecasting a £2.5 million annual increase in turnover with 60 new permanent roles expected to be created.
Tanzeel Younas, Co-Owner of Affinity Care Consortium, said: “Buying Silver Birches marks a pivotal milestone in our strategic expansion into Birmingham and Solihull. Our vision is to breathe new life into existing homes through modernisation and enhancement, while simultaneously pioneering new services in the region to cater to those in need.”
David Subba, Healthcare Sector Lead for Thames Valley & Solent at HSBC UK, added: “We are very proud to be able to support the growth ambitions of Affinity Care Consortium, particularly as in doing so the care facilities for residents in Solihull are being improved.
“The healthcare sector needs regular investment to ensure facilities are suitable for increasing numbers in need of support and HSBC UK are keen to support this wherever possible.”
Affinity Care Consortium operates a total of 48 adult care homes, 100 supported living homes, ten children’s homes, one school and 30 homeless housing units.
Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership marks one-year milestone
An innovative partnership which is helping local people access workplace skills and training has marked its one-year milestone.
The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership brings together representatives from the business community, education providers and public sector, to develop programmes and initiatives that aim to help local residents improve their skills to access new opportunities, which will help the local economy to grow.
The partnership has had a busy first year – launching five new skills programmes, established a skills brokerage service, hosted almost 20 events, and created a new initiative that has helped more than 200 young people to make more informed decisions about their future.
Michael Timmins, a director at AECOM and chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “It has been an incredibly busy first year and we’ve launched lots of new initiatives and programmes that will help ensure everyone can develop the skills that local businesses need to grow.
“By working in partnership with the public sector, it has helped ensure that support can be provided to solve the challenges faced by businesses and I look forward to seeing how this partnership develops, and to launching more programmes that will help local people access skills training.”
The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership is a key element of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan. Launched in 2023, it sets out a variety of partnership initiatives – working with local agencies and businesses – to help bridge the skills gap.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “We want to ensure that everyone can benefit from a growing local economy and through working in partnership with businesses and the community sector we can help local people develop the skills to progress in their careers or access new opportunities as they become available.
“Over the last year we have launched lots of new programmes with the business, education, and voluntary sector, I would like to encourage local residents to look into these opportunities and take full advantage of them because they can help progress their career and build a better life in our borough.”
The Skills Action Plan runs until 2027. It is just one of a range of projects and initiatives which is being funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives, until 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.
Lindum works on 16 schools during summer lesson break
Lincoln-based Lindum construction is working on 16 schools across Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and Yorkshire to complete projects before students return this Autumn, ensuring teaching and learning are not disrupted.
In Nottingham, teams are delivering projects ranging from fire alarms to re-roofing at seven primary schools for Nottingham City Council, another repeat client.
The work for repeat client the Priory Federation of Academies at four sites in Lincolnshire includes science classroom upgrades and internal remodelling of a trades training centre.
In Yorkshire, work involves delivering a pipeline of refurbishments for Red Kite Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust of 14 schools across North and West Yorkshire.
The works include a new landscaped outdoor space for children to enjoy, and roof replacement. We procured our school summer projects through our membership of frameworks.
Lindum Framework Manager Steve Duckering said: “Our commitment to forward-planning is evident in projects like our summer works programme for Nottingham City Council where discussions began as early as October last year, utilising the efficient procurement mechanisms offered by frameworks.
“These frameworks enable us to collaborate with clients early in the process, ensuring projects are meticulously planned and resourced. This proactive approach is essential for successful delivery, especially when working under tight deadlines like the school summer holidays.”
Other school summer works include refurbishments in Boston, Wisbech and Peterborough.
Over 3,000 North West Leicestershire businesses could be eligible for rural grant funding
Rural businesses in North West Leicestershire are set to benefit from over £350,000 in grant funding to support the growth of the rural economy.
The North West Leicestershire Rural Business Grant programme, funded by the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is being administered by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) this year.
The grants will help small and medium-sized businesses in rural locations to fund investment projects that can demonstrate business growth, tourism and visitor economy development, invest in carbon reducing technology or farm diversification.
A total of £351,818 is available in 2024, with businesses able to apply for a grant of between £1,000 and £25,000. Recipients will have to provide at least 50% match-funding alongside the grant.
The window for applications will close on 29 September. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. All successful projects will need to be claimed for by 31 January 2025.
Businesses employing fewer than 250 staff can use the funding to support capital projects, such as purchasing new equipment to:
- Modernise farm tourism facilities such as accommodation, wedding venues and leisure facilities
- Invest in energy efficiency or achieving zero carbon
- Invest in business premises, new technology and innovation.
Buyer sought as Lincolnshire manufacturer falls into administration
A Lincolnshire manufacturer has fallen into administration, with a buyer being sought for the business.
Gareth Harris and Deviesh Raikundalia of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP were appointed as Joint Administrators of MTAG Composites Ltd, MTAG (Holdings) Ltd and Electric Future Group Ltd on Friday 12 July 2024.
Based in Coningsby, MTAG Composites is the trading company in the group and is a manufacturer of moulded composite parts for the rail, aerospace, automotive, construction and leisure sectors, producing items such as train interiors, aircraft seating and boats.
Whilst viable options were being considered, the administrators took the decision to temporarily cease day-to-day operations immediately upon their appointment.
Following an accelerated and detailed review of the financial position, the administrators have decided to recommence day-to-day operations on a limited basis to align with the timetable for an accelerated sales process.
Thus far, the administrators have made minimal redundancies but have retained all of the operational and production staff on a ‘lay-off’ basis. The administrators understand that employees had not been paid for some time prior to their appointment and they are working with the Redundancy Payments Service (RPS) to ensure that those affected receive their statutory entitlements at the earliest possible opportunity.
Gareth Harris, restructuring advisory partner at RSM UK and joint administrator, said: “The decision to recommence operations demonstrates the commitment of all stakeholders to attempt to save this business and the livelihoods of the staff. Although not at full operational capacity, ongoing production will assist us in finding a buyer for all or part of the businesses.”
Deviesh Raikundalia, restructuring advisory director at RSM UK and joint administrator, added: “We have received significant interest in the acquisition of the business in the short time that we have been undertaking the sales process. We are continuing to engage with all parties who have expressed an interest in acquiring all or part of the businesses.
“Staff that we have retained since our appointment will continue to be paid and we appreciate the commitment and patience shown by the employees to date.”
