Belinda Lunn, Senior Responsible Owner Army Basing Project Kendrew said: “I am delighted to see the Kendrew Barracks project progressing as part of our ongoing effort to rationalise the Defence estate, provide the right infrastructure for the Army and enable the delivery of the important Military Working Dogs capability.”
Expected to complete in December 2025, the project team working on the scheme also includes architect Corstorphine + Wright.
Willmott Dixon to deliver £61m estate investment for the British Army in Rutland
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has appointed Willmott Dixon to deliver a £61m estate investment for the British Army at Kendrew Barracks in Rutland.
Procured through the Crown Commercial Service framework, Willmott Dixon will be delivering technical infrastructure to enable the rebasing of 18 Army Education Centre and 1 Military Working Dogs from St George’s Barracks to Kendrew Barracks.
The project will deliver 15 buildings – 11 which will be brand new with four being refurbished or retrofit – and will enable the disposal of St George’s Barracks scheduled from 2026.
The project will deliver some 13,000 sq m of space, including refurbishment of 110m of hangars. The facilities will comprise 173 new kennels for permanent, isolation and quarantine needs with a vet centre and training facilities, squadron offices and stores for all squadrons, a new gym and the repurposing of hanger B as the Regimental Headquarters and Quartermaster stores.
Nick Heath, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “This significant investment from the Army, supported by the DIO, is set to create high-quality facilities for those stationed at Kendrew Barracks. It’s always a privilege to contribute to national defence by making sure the estate meets the needs of those who access and use the facilities.
“Operating on a live barracks, as we will be throughout this project, creates unique challenges in terms of ongoing operations, but our wealth of experience within the sector means we are well positioned to understand and overcome these.
“Works will incorporate DREAM – the environmental assessment tool for new building and refurbishment projects on the defence estate – and we are aiming for high standards across all elements of the project.
“In particular, the new build elements will be targeting net-zero carbon in operation. With modern methods of construction also set to be used within the kennels structures, the entire scheme has been considered in relation to its current and future impact.”
60 new homes get the green light for Northampton
Vistry Group, the provider of affordable mixed-tenure homes, has been given the green light by West Northamptonshire Council to start building 60 new homes on Towcester Road, Northampton, in partnership with emh group.
This new development will consist of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes in the heart of south-west Northampton. Planned by Vistry, working under its Countryside Partnerships brand, it aims to strike a balance between family-friendly housing and green open spaces. The project will also include over £550,000 of investment in the local community.
Andy Reynolds, managing director of Vistry South East Midlands, said: “We are thrilled to receive full planning permission for this exciting new development which will not only meet the housing needs of the community but will also blend with the local environment.
“We’re excited to be working with emh to play a part in Northampton’s growth and to be entrusted with the build of these much-needed new homes which will contribute to the unique character of the area and will release over half a million pounds of investment in local services, creating a thriving and sustainable community.”
Chris Jones, executive director – development at emh, said: “We’re proud to be working alongside Vistry Group to provide this new affordable homes development in Northampton. The scheme has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of local people, with community, green spaces and the environment in mind. We look forward to seeing the development progress in the coming months.”
Frontline healthcare services provider sees difficult year
Totally plc, a provider of frontline healthcare services alongside corporate fitness and wellbeing services, has slipped to a pre-tax loss while revenues have fallen.
According to preliminary results for the 12-month period ended 31 March 2024, revenue at the Derby-based firm dipped by 21% to £106.7 million, from £135.7 million in the year prior.
Meanwhile, in a year where Totally let go some of its team, as it right sized structures, the company slid to a loss before tax of £3.9 million, from a profit of £1.8 million for the year prior.
Looking ahead, the business expects revenues for the year ending 31 March 2025 to decline further, to £85 million.
Simon Stilwell, Chairman, said: “It was undoubtedly a difficult year for the Group but the actions on costs, structure, internal process and financial controls taken in the second half of the year have seen a stabilisation in the business.
“As we look to the year ahead, we are a stronger organisation with clear accountability and improving performance.”
Breedon delivers “resilient performance”
Pre-tax profits have fallen while revenue has risen at Breedon Group, the construction materials group.
According to unaudited results for the six months ended 30 June 2024, revenue increased by 3% in comparison to the same period of last year to reach £764.6m. This was supported by Breedon’s entry into the US.
Pre-tax profits, however, were down by 18%, at £46.5m, as the macroeconomic and political landscape in Great Britain continued to present significant headwinds, exacerbated by challenging operating conditions created by wet weather.
Looking ahead, Breedon expects growth in all its markets from 2025 as the economic and political landscape stabilises.
Rob Wood, Chief Executive Officer, said: “For the team to deliver such a resilient performance given the challenging GB market conditions we have faced is an incredible achievement.
“We achieved a major strategic objective in March, entering the US and establishing our third platform with the transformative acquisition of BMC, creating the foundation from which we will build out our US business.
“We expanded our routes to market, delivering two bolt-on transactions in GB, and growing organically through our downstream businesses, pulling through more of our own material.
“We moved our sustainable growth strategy forward on all fronts in the first half of 2024 and were pleased to see this recognised by CDP with our first ratings placing us at the forefront of our sector for Climate Change and Water Security.
“During this time the quality and flexibility of the Breedon team, of whom I am incredibly proud, have kept us close to our customers, accelerated our drive for efficiencies, and strengthened our operations. As the economic and political clouds clear in GB, our markets will return to growth in time and we will be well placed to grow and succeed.”
Rolls-Royce welcomes Virgin Atlantic order for 14 Trent 7000 engines
Virgin Atlantic has agreed to place an order for 14 additional Trent 7000 engines to power seven Airbus A330neo. Rolls-Royce’s Trent 7000 is the exclusive engine for the aircraft.
The aircraft will enter service in 2027 and adds to the existing Virgin Atlantic fleet of Trent 7000-powered A330-900s.
Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer, Rolls-Royce – Civil Aerospace, said: “Virgin Atlantic is an existing Trent 7000 customer, and we are delighted that they have elected to return for seven Airbus A330neos – confirming their confidence in the Trent 7000 and A330neo combination. We look forward to supporting these new aircraft as they enter service.”
Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer, Virgin Atlantic, said: “We know our customers and crew love flying on the A330neo. Ordering another seven of these beautiful, carbon and fuel-efficient aircraft, powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engine, completes our fleet transformation and will ensure that our customers can continue to enjoy our award-winning experience in the sky.”
The Trent 7000 is the latest addition to the Rolls-Royce Trent family of engines and exclusively powers the Airbus A330neo. After entering service at the end of 2018, the Trent 7000 has flown more than two million hours.
Incorporating the latest generation technology, the A330neo/Trent 7000 combination delivers a 14% better aircraft fuel burn per seat (compared to the A330/Trent 700), while significantly lowering emissions.
Rolls-Royce is investing more than £1bn in a programme that will deliver further improvements to the Trent engine family.
Accountants hit the heights for fundraising challenge
A group of intrepid hikers from the Kettering office of accounting and advisory firm Azets have completed a mountainous challenge to raise funds for a Northamptonshire charity.
The team of hiking heroes scaled Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) on 13 July 2024 to raise vital funds for their locally nominated charity of the year, Breast Friends Northamptonshire.
Breast Friends Northamptonshire is a local support group for people affected by breast cancer, run by people affected by breast cancer. The charity is passionate about promoting wellbeing from diagnosis, treatment and beyond.
The team endured a six-hour hike, involving steep terrains and torrential rain before reaching the peak of 1,085 metres, in doing so raising more than £1,600.
Among the hiking heroes were Penny Chown, ABAS associate, and Annabelle Gallagher, Audit & Assurance associate director at Azets in Kettering.
Penny Chown said: “This was an exhilarating adventure in support of our 2024 chosen local charity, Breast Friends Northamptonshire. Our team overcame the challenge through sheer teamwork and unwavering spirit.
“This journey not only tested our endurance but also strengthened our friendship, as we shared moments of pride, fun, and lots of laughter along the way. I am proud to have taken part in the experience and to have contributed to a cause that means so much to our community.”
Annabelle Gallagher said: “I am so incredibly proud of the team and those who have supported, organised, and encouraged along the way. This charity is particularly close to my heart, having witnessed my mother’s own battle with breast cancer back in 2021.
“It is so vitally important that those affected have a local and personable support group that can provide a helping hand in all stages of this terrible disease.”
Paul Tyler, Office Managing Partner at Azets in Kettering, added: “I am immensely proud of the collective spirit and dedication the team has demonstrated in organising this challenge in aid of an amazing local charity.
“Their commitment to making a difference in our community is a shining example of what we stand for as both a local office but also as part of the wider Azets Group.”
You can still support Breast Friends Northamptonshire via the team’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/azets-kettering-171525979857
Chesterfield town centre regeneration work starts on site
Work on the next phase of the multi-million pound regeneration of Chesterfield town centre has officially started on site.
Councillors Tricia Gilby and Kate Sarvent met with Louise Bruynseels a regular market trader and John Allen the Construction Director at contractor Thomas Bow, to see how works had been progressing to the upper section of Market Place during the first week of construction.
The works will see the creation of a new market layout with new stalls and enhancements to paving, seating and lighting. Work will then move on to New Square – to create an attractive and flexible space that will complement the main market and speciality markets, but can also be used to host festivals, events, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings.
The town’s historic cobbles will be lifted, and re-laid and some new paving will also be installed – together this will maintain the historic look but will provide a more level surface throughout the Market Place, making it easier for people with accessibility issues such as wheelchair and mobility scooter users or parents with pushchairs to navigate the market.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re all immensely proud of our town centre and historic market, and we’re investing in its future to help it thrive for generations to come.
“It’s fantastic to see work begin on site, and we all look forward to seeing the improvements take shape over the summer. The town centre is very much open for business, although inevitably there will be some short-term disruption and we thank people for their patience.
“We’re working closely to support our market traders and town centre businesses and will keep people up to date as the project progresses.”
All town centre businesses and market stalls will be open as usual during the regeneration work. Some market traders have temporarily re-located to either the lower half of Market Place, New Square, or other areas of the town centre nearby – but the market will run as usual on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (and speciality markets as usual on Sundays).
Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield is an 18-month scheme to improve the look, feel and flow of key public spaces, and revitalise the historic market.
Further phases of works include Rykneld Square which will be transformed to create a green and welcoming space from which to enjoy Chesterfield’s much-loved Crooked Spire.
Separately, G F Tomlinson will carry out improvements to Corporation Street to create a new gateway to the refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall, which houses the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum.
Construction starts on site of 280 new homes in Nottinghamshire
Midlands-based homebuilder Spitfire Homes has commenced work on the construction of 280 new properties in Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire.
The collection will include a range of detached, semi-detached and terraced properties ranging from one- to five-bedrooms.
The delivery of new properties also includes community contributions totalling over £2 million, including a commitment of nearly £450,000 intended for local highway infrastructure and public transport improvements.
Over £870,000 is also set to go towards enhancing and expanding Radcliffe-on-Trent Infant and Nursery, and Radcliffe-on-Trent Junior School, so they can offer more places to local children.
Matt Vincent, Operations Director at Spitfire Homes, said: “We are excited to have started on site at this new location, with Radcliffe-on-Trent marking Spitfire’s debut collection of homes in Nottinghamshire.
“We are committed to meeting the continued demand in the market for high-quality, design-led homes and strengthening our pipeline following a portfolio of successful schemes in Warwickshire, Northamptonshire and the Cotswolds.
“Radcliffe represents an opportunity to showcase Spitfire as a forward-thinking homebuilder that creates vibrant and diverse communities. Now that we have officially broken ground on site, we’ll be supporting the employment of over 850 people and investing over £2 million into the local community including contributions towards education and transport infrastructure.
“The first homes are due to be made available this autumn, with first occupations expected from Spring 2025.”
Each property will compliment the local vernacular of the surrounding area, presenting a mix of multi-tonal red and orange brickwork, and chalk white render, to create a range of varied streetscenes. Leading the team on site is Senior Site Manager, Tim O’Toole, who has been recognised at the NHBC Pride in the Job Awards for his previous two developments for Spitfire.
Tim added: “Everybody on site is dedicated to ensuring these homes deliver to the high standards associated with owning a Spitfire home. I am excited to be involved in creating a new community in Radcliffe-on-Trent and deliver properties that our customers will proudly call home, from first-time buyers to downsizers and everything in between.”
Company insolvencies soar, but it’s not all bad news for Midlands businesses
The number of monthly company insolvencies in England and Wales has soared in June, after a surprise fall in May, but it may not be all bad news for struggling Midlands businesses as new government figures highlight a growing quantity able to be rescued rather than wound up.
This is according to the Midlands branch of insolvency and restructuring body R3 and follows monthly statistics published by the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies increased by 15.7% in June 2024 to a total of 2,361 compared to the previous month’s total of 2,040, and by 17.1% against June 2023’s figure of 2,016.
The research also shows that monthly corporate insolvencies increased by 49.5% from June 2022’s total of 1,579, and by 61.1% compared to the pre-pandemic level of 1,466 in June 2019.
R3 Midlands Chair Stephen Rome, a partner at law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “The rise in corporate insolvencies is driven by an increase in Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidations, which is a process usually used by smaller businesses and can be driven by cashflow problems or difficulties with access to finance.
“These latest statistics also show that compulsory liquidation numbers have risen to their second-highest level since January 2021, suggesting that creditors are taking a much tougher stance this financial year.
“But there are some positive signs in these figures for local businesses. Company Voluntary Arrangement and Administration numbers have increased compared to last month, and Administration numbers are higher than this time last year and in June 2019, indicating a growing number of businesses for which this is an option, and which have secured creditors willing to support rescue proposals.
“The reality, however, is that businesses are still trading amid high costs and cautious consumer spending. Despite recent data pointing to economic growth and falling inflation, it seems that the improvement has come too late for some.
“While retail sales rebounded in May, they are still down year-on-year, and restaurant spending fell again last month as consumers continued to be cautious with discretionary spending.
“These sectors have struggled since the start of the year and have yet to bounce back from a disappointing pre-Christmas trading period, so we may see insolvency numbers increase in the Autumn if trading conditions don’t improve.
“There was positive news, however, for the construction sector, which saw growth in May after a disappointing start to 2024 and a delay in new work at the end of last year. While the uncertainty the General Election will have brought this sector is likely to impact firms and output in the short-term, the new Government’s pledges to invest in infrastructure and encourage housebuilding could reinvigorate two key markets for this industry if they come to fruition.
“It’s also worth noting that many local businesses continue to be positive about the future, with lower inflation and the prospect of higher sales and profits boosting their confidence about the coming months, but we’ve yet to see the full impact of the General Election on the economy and purchasing decisions, and, despite their optimism about the future, organisations remain concerned about customer demand, staff turnover and meeting their regulatory requirements.”
Finch Consulting appoints accomplished health & safety expert
Leicestershire-based health and safety risk management experts, Finch Consulting, have appointed accomplished health & safety expert Richard Bowen.
With over two decades of experience in the oil and gas, defence and manufacturing industries including a health & safety director for top tier COMAH sites in the UK and EHS lead for large oil and gas capital projects in central Asia, Richard will be joining Finch as a senior consultant to help build their health & safety and process safety capabilities.
In his new role, Richard will be using his experience and expertise in risk management and process safety to support Finch’s portfolio of clients and help develop further business opportunities.
Commenting on his appointment, Richard said: “I was really impressed by everyone I met at Finch, they really have a unique blend of talent that I felt I could fit right in with. Being able to utilise my experience and skills, as well as learning some new ones, in such a dynamic and vibrant community of EHS practitioners is very exciting.
“I’m key to play a part in helping the business to achieve its growth plans and hopefully help to develop new opportunities at the same time. On a personal note, I am a passionate learner and look forward to continuing my professional development by learning from the vast expertise that exists within the Finch team.”
Dom Barraclough, Managing Director, said: “We expect Rich’s arrival to bring new opportunities for our community. He is well connected and respected and will work with other consultants to build and promote our Health and Safety capability. His assistance to Tristan (Pulford, Capability Director) in developing our Process Safety capability will be invaluable.”
Profit warnings issued by listed Midlands companies up 15% in first half of 2024
Listed companies in the Midlands issued 15 profit warnings in the first half of 2024, an increase of 15% on the same period in 2023, according to the latest EY-Parthenon Profit Warnings Report.
Companies in the Midlands issued six warnings in Q2 2024, down by a quarter on Q2 2023 when eight warnings were issued. This is the region’s lowest quarterly total since Q1 2023, when five warnings were issued.
Nationally, in Q2 2024, the number of profit warnings issued by UK listed companies fell 26% compared with Q2 2023, with 49 warnings issued – the lowest quarterly total since 2021.
Despite a decrease in the number of quarterly profit warnings, the proportion of UK listed companies issuing a warning over the past year stands at 18.4%, exceeding the peak level observed immediately after the 2008 global financial crisis.
This high level can be attributed to a significant number of ‘new’ companies issuing warnings for the first time within a 12-month period. During Q1 2024, 61% of profit warnings came from companies that had not issued one for the past 12 months, and during Q2 2024 this figure stood at 50%.
Leading factors behind many Q2 profit warnings included contract issues which were cited in 29% of warnings. As companies contended with increasing labour and supply expenditure, cost pressures rose as a key factor in profit warnings for the first time in more than 12 months and were cited in more than a quarter (27%) of Q2 profit warnings.
Jo Robinson, EY-Parthenon Partner and UK&I Turnaround and Restructuring Strategy Leader, said: “An unprecedented rollcall of global elections and geopolitical risks means that an element of uncertainty remains, potentially exerting further pressure on spending and growth. We can expect the economy to continue to recover, but slowly and unevenly.
“We have started to see more companies coming back to the restructuring table because they haven’t made the fundamental changes needed to adapt their operations and balance sheets to new demand, cost and competitive realities. Refinancing is a growing risk, with many companies surprised by the added levels of due diligence and time needed to refinance in this market.
“We expect all of this to drive a slow uptick in restructuring, but without necessarily a big upsurge in administration appointments, as more companies tackle their issues through restructuring plans and consensual agreements with creditors. The profit warning cycle may have turned, but we are at the start of the restructuring one.”
FTSE Industrial Support Services accounted for more than a fifth of all warnings in Q2 2024
While overall profit warnings fell in Q2 2024, there were a number of sectors where warnings remained high, revealing persistent and developing challenges.
Companies within FTSE Industrial Support Services, which encompasses business service providers, industrial suppliers and recruitment companies, issued 10 warnings in Q2 2024, accounting for 20% of all UK profit warnings during the period. Of the 19 warnings issued by the sector in 2024, eight have come from business services providers, seven from recruitment and training companies and four from industrial suppliers.
Warnings were also seen across FTSE Software and Computer Services (5), Retailers (4), Household Goods and Home Construction (4) and Finance and Credit Services (3).
In the Midlands, companies operating in Consumer Discretionary FTSE sectors continued to issue the highest number of warnings (eight), making up 53% of the region’s total warnings in H1 2024.
Dan Hurd, EY Partner, Turnaround and Restructuring Strategy based in Birmingham, said: “The FTSE Industrial Support Services sector is heavily reliant on business and public sector spending and is particularly vulnerable to economic fluctuations and cost-cutting measures. With 19 warnings so far in 2024, companies have cited decreased sales, challenging contract negotiations, and budgetary pressures as key concerns.
“Cost increases in labour, equipment, and debt, alongside necessary investments in supply chain improvements and new technologies, have compounded the financial strain. Recruitment companies, as business confidence indicators, have notably issued 12 profit warnings in the last 12 months.
“The sector’s challenges are exacerbated by complex outsourcing contracts and cost inflation, with nearly half of the warnings in H1 2024 mentioning higher costs. Companies are therefore having to actively manage the risks on existing contracts whilst learning from the past and trying to avoid the pitfalls of overly aggressive pricing strategies on new work.”
Contractor appointed to build new £15m health services hub for Belper
Contractor Henry Brothers Construction has been appointed to build a new £15m centre for community health services in Belper, Derbyshire.
The modern facilities – designed to have high environmental credentials to ensure long-term sustainability – will be built on the site of the former Belper Clinic, as part of the Babington Hospital site on Derby Road, Belper.
Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust has commissioned Midlands-based contractor Henry Brothers to deliver the new building.
It will include environmentally sustainable features such as photo-voltaic panels on the roof to harness the power of the sun, with pledges to use local and recycled material from demolished buildings in the build where possible, along with timber from certified sources.
The health hub will feature 15 consulting rooms, six treatment rooms, a health education group room and other facilities, and will provide a range of services including community nursing, midwifery clinics, podiatry services, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, continence advisory service, wound care and phlebotomy.
Designed by architects Race Cottam Associates, it will accommodate all existing outpatient and clinical services provided at Babington Hospital.
Ian Taylor, managing director of Henry Brothers Construction, said: “We are proud to have been appointed by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust to build this important new community health facility for the people of Belper.
“Henry Brothers has wide experience of delivering community facilities in Derbyshire and beyond, such as schools and health care services, and we look forward to starting on site.
“Once completed, the Belper health hub will play an important role in the local community, providing key facilities to residents, and we are pleased to be involved in delivering this development for Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust.”
Planning permission for the new community health services hub was granted by Amber Valley Borough Council in September last year, paving the way for the process of inviting tenders and appointing a contractor, procured through the Pagabo Framework.
Jim Austin, executive director at Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to announce the award of the contract for this project in anticipation of the start of work on site.
“Once completed, this new building will deliver healthcare facilities fit for the 21st century for people in Belper and surrounding area. It has been a long time in the planning and we’re excited to see site preparations for building work to start soon.”
Enabling work at the site is now getting under way, with a planned construction phase of 66 weeks. It is being built to BREEAM excellent standards to ensure long-term sustainability.
Other members of the construction team alongside Henry Brothers and Race Cottam Associates include project manager Capita, civil and structural engineer Eastwood Consulting Engineers, and mechanical and electrical engineers EP Consulting.
Stellar Asset Management buys Newark Golf Club
Twenty jobs and a golf club that dates back more than a century have been saved by the sale of the assets of Newark Golf Club to Stellar Asset Management, which owns a number of golf clubs and leisure resorts.
The deal has not only secured the future of the historic golf club and saved jobs, but will also deliver a significant dividend to its 400-plus members.
Earlier this year directors of the club, founded in 1901, recognised that its funds were not
sufficient to undertake the substantial improvements needed to update the 18-hole course and club house, threatening its ability to continue to operate without becoming insolvent.
With the support of the membership, the directors worked with Begbies Traynor to market the club while managing its cash flow and reserves, enabling it to continue to trade during the sale process. The sale was supported by the club’s lender Clydesdale Bank.
Yü Group records “set of strong results”
Yü Group, the independent supplier of gas and electricity, meter asset owner, and installer of smart meters to the UK corporate sector, has recorded a “set of strong results” in a trading update for the six months ended 30 June 2024.
The business saw first half revenue reach £310m, up 60% on the same period last year (£195m), despite mild Spring temperatures reducing consumption. Monthly average bookings, meanwhile, were down at £46.9m (H1 23: £51.3m and FY23: £55.5m), reflecting reduced commodity market prices. This was offset by the Group delivering a 35% increase in supplied meter points in H1 24, and 82% from June 2023, to close at 72,300 (H1 23: 39,700; FY23: 53,400).Yü Group noted it is on track to deliver EBITDA and EBIT margins and therefore profitability for FY24 in-line with current market expectations.
Bobby Kalar, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I’m proud to report a continued set of strong results; with revenue, meter points supplied energy, and meters installed increasing by c.60%, 82% and 125% respectively on the same period in 2023.
“We continue to focus on delivery of our strategy, increasing market share through our unique Digital by Default offering and supported by our new agreement with Shell, and to deliver sustainable margins as we scale.
“Cash generation is very strong and provides a good basis to support our progressive dividend policy and to invest in strategic initiatives.
“I remain excited by the future and am fully committed to delivering shareholder value. I would like to thank my fantastic team for continuing to deliver our growth trajectory and enabling the Group to benefit from its position as a key challenger brand in a £50 billion market.”
Green light for 1.5 million sq ft industrial & logistics development in Derbyshire
Harworth Group has secured a resolution to grant outline planning consent from Amber Valley Borough Council for the development of 1.5 million sq ft of Grade A Industrial & Logistics space and up to 300 new homes at its Cinderhill development in Derbyshire.
Harworth owns or controls the majority of the site through a combination of freehold ownership and under a Planning Promotion and Marketing Agreement (PPMA). Harworth is the first developer to unlock this complex site since taking control of it in 2018. Located in Derbyshire, adjacent to the A38, the Cinderhill site has a long history of industrial uses including an iron foundry and opencast coal extraction. The Group’s proposal includes land remediation, site servicing and installation of high-quality infrastructure to facilitate the construction of Grade A commercial units. The regeneration of this site once complete is expected to create over 1,000 new jobs and the whole scheme has been carefully designed to incorporate infrastructure capable of supporting sustainable living and provides connectivity via cycle paths, footways and bus routes. Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive, Harworth Group, said: “The receipt of planning at Cinderhill is a significant milestone as this complex site has involved careful masterplanning over the years alongside collaboration with a number of different stakeholders. “This achievement highlights our specialist skillset and track record of securing planning and regenerating former industrial land. “We look forward to playing a part in the delivery of a high-quality sustainable scheme in a region which has a strong manufacturing and logistics presence and where Harworth continues to see strong demand for our serviced land products.”Obsequio Group secures financing solution to fuel buy-and-build strategy
Obsequio Group, a provider of fire detection, safety, security and water hygiene solutions, has secured a new senior finance package from Kartesia, a European specialist provider of financing solutions for small and mid-sized companies.
This partnership is set to fuel Leicester-headquartered Obsequio Group’s buy-and-build strategy. The financing provided by Kartesia will support strategic growth initiatives, enabling further expansion through targeted acquisitions of established compliance services and technology businesses. The Obsequio Group buy-and-build strategy focuses on broadening geographical coverage, enhancing service capabilities, and expanding market presence. Obsequio Group currently serves over three thousand public and private sector customers operating across a wide range of sectors including education, industrials and student accommodation. Additionally, Obsequio Group has a growing technology offering through its Drax Technology division, offering a range of monitoring and detection technologies. Following initial investment from Beechbrook Capital in 2021, Obsequio Group has successfully acquired and integrated eight companies including Complete Detection Systems, Genex, Drax360, APS, Brunel and Bryland. Simon Cashmore, Obsequio Group Chairman, said: “From our very early discussions with Kartesia it was evident that there was strong alignment between our teams, complete buy-in to our strategy and a genuine interest and desire to build a detailed understanding of our business, all of which contributed to us selecting Kartesia as our preferred partner for the next stage of our journey. “During the last 3 years we have successfully acquired and integrated a number of businesses into the group and we are delighted to be able to confidently progress our strategy with the financial support of Kartesia, and indeed our partnership with Beech Tree Private Equity.” Daire Creighan, at Kartesia, said: “We are excited to partner with Obsequio Group and Beech Tree Private Equity to support the next chapter of their impressive growth story. “As one of the UK’s fastest-growing founder-led companies, Obsequio Group has significantly expanded its service offerings and geographical presence, demonstrating a commitment to constant innovation and service quality in the fire safety and adjacent compliance sectors. “Their impressive M&A and integration strategy has established Obsequio Group as a market leader across the UK in fire safety and compliance, and we look forward to supporting their ongoing growth and success in partnership with Beech Tree Private Equity.” Ben Cartwright, at Beech Tree Private Equity, said: “We’re delighted to have secured this financing package with Kartesia. This deal will not only enable Obsequio to accelerate its organic growth plans, but will also provide significant additional firepower to pursue other high quality compliance services and complementary technology acquisition targets. “We have a clear plan to build Obsequio into the leading technology-enabled compliance services provider in the UK and I firmly believe that Kartesia’s support over the coming years will help us to achieve this.” Paul Whitehouse, at Beechbrook Capital, added: “It has been a pleasure to work with the Obsequio team over the last three years and support the early stages of their buy and build journey. We look forward to seeing where the next stage takes them and wish them all the best in their future partnership with Kartesia.”Colleges propose merger
Loughborough College and SMB College Group are proposing a merger, following the latter’s financial trouble.
The two colleges are currently in a consultation period, whereby they are working closely with key stakeholders to ensure the new offering meets the needs of the region and shapes professional futures through the development of skills.
Corrie Harris, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “This partnership represents a highly exciting proposition, promising significant benefits and opportunities for students, staff, and employers throughout Leicestershire.
“We hope that it will be transformational, by delivering greater economic prosperity and by offering a larger number of students from across our region an outstanding experience.”
Dawn Whitemore, Principal and Chief Executive of SMB College Group, said: “This strategic partnership marks an exciting step forward for both our colleges as we combine our strengths to enhance educational opportunities for our students and community.
“We are pleased to be working with a partner with the same values and passion as SMB College Group.”
Following the consultation period, both organisations will create a joint merger steering group of governors to oversee the proposal and perform due diligence, with an anticipated merger date of 1st August 2025. Final approval also needs to be secured from the Education and Skills Funding Agency and Department for Education.
This proposed merger will strengthen the current growth plans for both colleges. These include more than £35m investment in significant projects such as the East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) and the Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College in addition to £20m investment in the brand-new Land-based and Agri-tech centre at SMB College Group’s Brooksby campus.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024: recognising the exceptional work of property and construction businesses
With nominations OPEN for Business Link’s annual East Midlands Bricks Awards, don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business, team and projects by submitting an entry for the prestigious event.
Attracting leaders from across the region, the celebration of the property and construction industry is the perfect way for firms to raise their profile and promote the work they are completing, as well as boost morale.
Take this chance to highlight exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as outstanding developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes.
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening also offering time to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the East Midlands.
After winning the Commercial Development of the Year award at last year’s event, Clare Swaine, business development manager at Henry Brothers, said: “I was delighted to collect this award on behalf of Henry Brothers, it was a fantastic team effort to deliver this impressive Passivhaus building which is supportive of Loughborough University’s path to net-zero and is a tremendous asset to the University and wider Leicestershire economy. The event was also a great networking opportunity and it was interesting to hear more about the various developments happening in the region.”
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:
Local businesses boosted with launch of Early Stage Angel Investment Fund
‘Early stage’ businesses based in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire can now pitch to access new funding to support growth.
The Early Stage Angel Investment Fund (ESAIF) was developed by the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (D2N2 LEP) ahead of it becoming part of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) earlier this year.
The Fund, which has been launched at events in Derby and Nottingham, aims to stimulate investment and growth in ‘early stage’ companies – those that have been trading between six and 24 months.
D2N2 LEP/EMCCA are contributing £4 million to the fund, match-funded by ESAIF fund manager, Haatch. Over the longer term these funds will be re-invested in the programme, to catalyse investment and growth for more early-stage companies.
The Derby launch event, held at Derby Arena, featured a video keynote address by Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, and presentations by D2N2 LEP Deputy Chair and EMCCA’s business representative David Williams MBE DL, Lewis Stringer of British Business Bank, Samantha Deakin of the University of Derby and Fred Soneya of ESAIF fund manager Haatch.
The Nottingham event, held at BioCity, featured a video keynote address by Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, and presentations by D2N2 LEP board member Glenn Crocker, Lewis Stringer of British Business Bank, Sarah King of Obu and Fred Soneya of ESAIF fund manager Haatch.
The events were MC’d by EMCCA’s Nicola Swaney and attended by more than 100 delegates over the two days.
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “Supporting our local economy is one of my priorities as Mayor of the East Midlands and I’m delighted we’ve been able to launch the Early Stage Angel Investment Fund.
“I look forward to hearing all about the impact of this fund, how it supports our local businesses, and how it will help our regional economy thrive. I’m keen to see what we can achieve together through this significant investment and strong collaborative partnership.”
The Early Stage Angel Investment Fund was announced by D2N2 LEP Chair Elizabeth Fagan at the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds earlier this year.
Plans submitted for major Northampton industrial development
Trebor Developments and Hillwood have submitted a detailed planning application for a major industrial development in Northampton. The application has been submitted for a single B8 industrial unit of 330,000 sq ft to be developed to BREEAM Excellent and EPC “A” rating.
The site is situated 5 miles east of Northampton Town Centre adjacent to the A45 Expressway, which provides dual carriageway access to Junction 15 of the M1 Motorway in a 7-minute drive.
Subject to planning the building could be available for occupation in 2026 on a build to suit or speculative basis and is available on both a leasehold and rare freehold basis.
James Drew, Trebor’s Development Director, said: “We are delighted to have reached the next key stage of delivery for this major, golden triangle, development. The building is expected to deliver over 350 direct full-time jobs, an ecological net gain of over 10% and generate a total economic benefit of £890m over the life of the scheme.”
Drake & Partners and Knight Frank have been appointed agents.
