The pre-pack deal completed by administrators from Alvarez & Marsal Europe involved the sale of a number of depots, saving 116 jobs. Not all Go Plant depots were sold, however, with some shutting, resulting in redundancies.
Martin Smith, CEO of Sweeptech, said: “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Go Plant, which marks a significant milestone in our journey towards becoming a truly national waste management company. “This strategic move not only enhances our ability to serve our customers with excellence but also underscores our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.” “We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we integrate Go Plant into the Sweeptech family,” added Smith. “Together, we will continue to innovate, drive positive change and set new standards of excellence in waste management.”Sweeptech acquires Leicestershire firm out of administration
Sweeptech has acquired Leicestershire firm Go Plant, solidifying its position as a provider of road sweeping and waste management services.
The acquisition of Go Plant, which went into administration last week, aligns with Sweeptech’s business strategy for national coverage. By integrating Go Plant’s operations, Sweeptech now has a network of depots spanning the North East, North West, Yorkshire, the Midlands, London, the South, and South East.
Healthcare services provider hails “improved performance against tough operational backdrop”
Totally plc, a provider of frontline healthcare services, corporate fitness and wellbeing services across the UK and Ireland, has reported “improved performance, against a tough operational backdrop,” in a new trading update for the 12 months ended 31 March 2024 (FY24).
This is despite a dip in revenue, with Totally anticipating, subject to audit, to report revenue for the period of £106 million, down from £135.7 million in the year prior. The Derby-based business, meanwhile, anticipates reporting EBITDA for the full year of £2.3 million, growing from £1.1 million in H1 24.During FY24, the group executed internal restructuring to right size the organisation in a difficult operating environment. Actions during the second half of the year delivered further reductions in overhead costs leading to a full year reduction in FY24 of £2.2 million and annualised savings of £3.5 million. FY24 exceptional costs incurred to achieve these cost savings are forecast to be £0.8 million.
Wendy Lawrence, Chief Executive Officer, Totally, said: “We remain steadfast in our commitment to stand alongside our healthcare colleagues to ensure the population can access the care they need when they need it.
“Our teams have worked tirelessly during times of unforeseen pressure with clarity and I am proud of the way Totally has approached these times and managed its own pressures without compromising quality.
“There is no doubt that the market continues to be difficult, and as commissioners have considered the actions required to move forward, we have also ensured that our house is in order. We have robustly addressed the cost base, which ultimately protects the services we deliver to patients, our workforce and long-term shareholder value.
“These cost savings supported our performance for FY24 and will continue to do so in future years. I am delighted to see new business opportunities emerging as we turn our focus to a return to profitability and growth.”
Record revenue and progress towards profitability for Light Science Technologies
Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, which comprises three divisions for controlled environment agriculture (CEA), contract electronics manufacturing (CEM), and passive fire protection (PFP), has hailed record revenue and “strong progress towards profitability” in its audited results for the year ended 30 November 2023.
Revenue grew 13.8% to £9.3m, up from £8.17m in the year prior. Meanwhile, the Derbyshire-based business reduced its loss before tax to £1.14m, in comparison to £2.72m last year.
The year also saw the company complete a successful £1.45m (net proceeds) fundraise facilitating product development and CEA IP protection. Furthermore, the firm acquired Tomtech and Injecta Fire Barrier’s trade and assets, creating the new PFP division.
Simon Deacon, CEO of Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, said: “We are very pleased to report significant operational progress in the period, with strong progress across all parts of the business delivering record Group revenues which exceeded internal management expectations.
“The CEM division continues to underpin Group revenue generation and present significant growth opportunities in new and existing markets, whilst the PFP and CEA divisions offer exciting, and potentially very lucrative, growth opportunities in the medium to long term.
“We move forward with a significantly strengthened corporate team and long-term global structural drivers that complement our business model. The Light Science management team is committed to growing a complementary portfolio of companies that is diverse, operationally self-funding, and delivers for its shareholders.”
Manufacturing slips back into contraction as output and new orders decline
The UK manufacturing sector showed renewed signs of weakness at the start of the second quarter. April saw output and new orders slip back into contraction territory following short-lived upturns in March, as uncertain market conditions, client destocking and supply-chain disruption (mainly relating to the Red Sea crisis) stymied opportunities for sustained expansion.
The seasonally adjusted S&P Global UK Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ IndexTM (PMI®) fell to 49.1 in April, down from March’s 20-month high of 50.3.
Four of the five PMI constituents (output, new orders, employment and stocks of purchases) registered contractions. Longer supplier delivery times was the only variable to buck the negative trend on the PMI. However, this was largely a ‘false positive’, largely reflecting disruptions caused by the Red Sea crisis as opposed to stronger conditions driving up demand for raw materials (input buying activity actually fell during the latest survey month).
The latest contraction of production volumes – the thirteenth during the past 14 months – was mainly the result of output being scaled back in both the intermediate and investment goods industries. The link between market demand and the trend in production was highlighted by these two sectors also seeing lower intakes of new business.
In contrast, the performance of the consumer goods industry continued to strengthen, with output and new orders in this category rising for the second successive month (albeit at slower rates of growth).
Total new business placed with UK manufacturers contracted in April, amid signs of weaker demand from both domestic and overseas sources. The downturn in new export business extended to 27 successive months, with reports of weaker intakes from Germany, Ireland, Asia and the US. Strong competition, distribution issues and cost increases were all factors contributing to lower new export order inflows.
Average purchasing costs rose for the fourth successive month in April, with the rate of increase accelerating to its highest since February 2023. Multiple inputs were reported to be up in price, with specific reference to higher costs for energy, polymers, steel, textiles, timber and transportation.
There were also reports citing increased shipping costs (Red Sea crisis), market forces and the pass-through of higher wages at suppliers. Manufacturers’ selling prices rose in response, taking output charge inflation to an 11-month high.
The continued subdued performance of the UK manufacturing sector was reflected in the labour market. Staffing levels were reduced for the nineteenth consecutive month. Job losses were mainly in the consumer and intermediate goods sub-industries, as employment rose in the investment goods category.
April saw weak demand, cost control initiatives, supply-chain disruptions and a preference for reduced stock holdings influence levels of purchasing activity and inventory holdings. Input buying volumes subsequently fell for the twenty-second month in a row, while stocks of both purchases and finished goods were further depleted.
The decrease in holdings of inputs at warehouses was also affected by delays in receiving goods ordered from suppliers. Average vendor lead times lengthened for the fourth month running, amid continued reports of disruption caused by the Red Sea crisis.
The outlook for the UK manufacturing sector remained positive in April. Over half of companies (52%) forecast that output would increase over the coming year, compared to only 8% anticipating a decline. Optimism was linked to hopes for a revival in demand, new product launches, efficiency gains and an improvement in market conditions.
Commenting on the latest survey results, Rob Dobson, Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said: “The UK manufacturing sector suffered a renewed downturn in April, as output and new orders contracted following short-lived rebounds in March.
“The sector is still besieged by weak market confidence, client destocking and disruptions caused by the ongoing Red Sea crisis, all of which are contributing to reduced inflows of new work from domestic and overseas customers, with specific reports of difficulty securing new contract wins from Europe, the US and Asia.
“The downturn is also sustaining cost caution at manufacturers, leading to lower employment, stock holdings and cutbacks in purchasing activity. The news on the prices front is also worrisome for those looking for a sustainable path back to target (consumer price) inflation, with cost pressures growing in industry and feeding through to higher selling prices at the factory gate.”
Aye up, it’s GS on Ai on PR: By Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR
Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR, discusses the use of artificial intelligence in PR.
Aye up, it’s GS on Ai on PR
Now, that’s what I call an initial effort! Which is nearly as HILARIOUS as the joke prompts I fed into ChatGPT this morning before I began this piece. I was even half tempted to let the mystery machine write some of this column as I am up against a deadline on a range of content from tequila and tax to insulated conservatory roofing and private investigators (I have a varied client portfolio). However, the chances of me risking that damage to my brand is tiny. Not because it would be particularly BAD in terms of how it sounded but because it would be perfectly mundane! That’s because it would not be ME and if you are a regular reader (hi mum), you would spot it a mile off and all of the equity I have created with a slew of pithy headlines, cheeky turns of phrase and crafty nods to regional dialects would be for the birds (or me ducks). On the shelf behind my desk is a HUGE jar of Marmite. NB: not a jar of yeast extract. It is unashamedly the Marmite brand because it serves to remind me to be myself, not “meh”-self. In a world where content can be squirted out of the Ai sausage machine with incredible speed, this extra special something is crucial because there is a secret ingredient in every prize winning product from an artisan and it is normally THEM. Imagine if you hired me to promote your business (go on, it’ll be fun and I’m pretty handy!). I can guarantee that within 5 minutes of us chatting about the business brand values I will be asking about YOU or about the founder, or the MD – I want to know the “face” of the business. That’s because I’m still a journalist at heart and us reporters think a little differently. Why? It comes down to a simple thing, people sell stories, not brands. Therefore, people should TELL stories, not brands. If I write “Virgin Atlantic” here, not one of you reading this just looked into the middle distance and thought “mmmm, Everyone Can Take On The World,” you thought about Richard Branson. Now might be a good time to remind you that I chaired a press conference for him a few years back, I might have mentioned that a few times! Now, in terms of global reach, his brand and profile might well be virgin on the ridiculous (sorry couldn’t resist) but to a journalist, he is still gold-dust. If the PR team wants to launch a new Virgin business, they have a word with Mr B. Now, he won’t be the person running the tactics and strategy (he’s a tad busy), but he will be the face and he will be at the press conference doing something cheeky and subversive. That’s his brand and by extension, Virgin’s. Today, I have 3 different clients to pitch across the property, financial and national business media. My opening line to my target reporters will not involve the business name whatsoever. It will lead with the relevant person to that audience from within those businesses and explain why they are relevant as much as the story angle. Try this little exercise. PR: “Would you like to hear from a business that installs conservatory roofing?” Journo: “Err…no.” PR: “Sorry, would you like to hear from a family firm that began 10 years ago at a kitchen table and now employs 124 people?” Journo: “Go on then.” NB: reporters rarely gush with excitement when pitched. Or what about this: Journo: “Looking for an expert on security from cyber and physical theft in the corporate world.” PR: I have ACME Ltd who are really good at this. They have X locations around the world.” Journo: *tumbleweed PR: Their expert on this used to be in the Royal Grenadiers.” Journo: The ones with the hats?” PR: Yes, the ones with the hats. Journo: Ping it over. Ai can be hugely effective if you struggle to get anything out there content wise or even as a starter for 10 but please remember, your secret sauce when it comes to branding, PR and getting noticed is not more sauce, it is more oomph. The world is getting noisier as content becomes easier but if you are going to be heard, sometimes it takes a whisper in the right ear. A former business journalist, Greg Simpson is the author of The Small Business Guide to PR and has been recognised as one of the UK’s top 5 PR consultants, having set up Press for Attention PR in 2008. He has worked for FTSE 100 firms, charities and start-ups and conducted press conferences with Sir Richard Branson and James Caan. His background ensures a deep understanding of every facet of a successful PR campaign – from a journalist’s, client’s, and consultant’s perspective. See this column in the May edition of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.Clowes Developments raise over £2,000 at ‘ProperTee’ charity golf day for Derbyshire Mind
Clowes Developments kick started their 60th anniversary celebrations with their first ever ‘ProperTee’ charity golf day on Friday 3rd May. Hosted at Brailsford Golf course, 12 local businesses gathered to raise in excess of £2,000 for Derbyshire Mind.
Derbyshire Mind is the local independent mental health charity within the national Mind network. Their focus is on improving mental health and wellbeing for people across Derby and Derbyshire. They provide a range of community mental wellbeing services designed to support local people with mental health problems as well as the wider population.
Clowes Developments were joined by CARVE, FHP Property Consultants, IMA Architects, Reach Timelapse, NG Chartered Surveyors, Photos.co.uk, O’Brien Contractors Ltd, TanRo, BE Design, Fisher German, and Jackson Purdue Lever. Teams of 4 enjoyed breakfast rolls and networking before heading out ready for a shot gun start at 10am. With a real mixed bag of skill, Texas scramble format was applied.
Mark Van Keulen, CARVE, said: “There were a few teams taking their time to get around the 12-hole course, but on the hole, we saw some interesting, brilliant and hilarious golf.
“Members of the Clowes team were out delivering refreshments to players on the course, which provided some real comedy moments and some much needed relief for those who were having a less than ideal day on the greens.
“Derbyshire Mind ran a pitch and putt ‘hit to win’ competition at the end of the tournament and raised a really good amount of cash. Property people are very competitive, some paid for multiple go’s just to win a bottle of Peroni!”
Following a round of golf, guests enjoyed a short presentation by Vic Handley, a very brave man who will be taking on a 3,000-mile solo row across the Atlantic Ocean in December this year.
Vic wanted to celebrate his 70th birthday with his biggest challenge yet in order to raise money for Derby County Community Trust, Derby & Derbyshire Umbrella, Enthusiasm and Derbyshire Mind. Guests were able to take a look around Vic’s boat which was on site for the duration of the event and talk to him about his adventure whilst enjoying a two-course lunch at Acorns, Brailsford Golf Course’s club house.
Whilst the day was all about raising money for Derbyshire Mind, inevitably, everyone fought hard to take home the ‘winners’ title, but secretly, a few wanted the loser’s spoon. In the end, BE Design bagged the win and Clowes took home the spoons.
Kate Henderson, Head of Marketing at Clowes Developments, said: “Congratulations to the winners (and losers) on the day. We are delighted to have raised over £2,000 for Derbyshire Mind.
“I would like to personally thank our co-hosts CARVE, our prize sponsors FHP Property Consultants, Longest Drive sponsor, IMA Architects and Nearest to the Pin sponsor, Golf Star.
“Additionally, we had some great support from our colleagues, friends, family and local businesses who donated items or purchased tickets for our raffle. This is the first of many events scheduled for this year as we celebrate 60 years in business.”
Clowes Developments will also be taking part in Mental Health Awareness Week from the 13th-19th May. Clowes’ Corporate Social Responsibility team including Amanda Page, Donna Burkitt and Lucy Bloor have organised a corporate quiz night at Pride Park Stadium on 16th May. If you would like to enter a team and take on ‘the great and the good’ businesses from across the East Midlands please email lucy.bloor@clowes.co.uk.
Off-market deal sees rubber and latex clothing producer expand
A fast-growing producer of rubber and latex clothing for men has expanded after taking a 3,820 sq ft unit at the Robin Hood Industrial Estate, just outside Nottingham city centre.
Invincible Rubber will use Unit 14 on the industrial estate as a showroom and for the storage and distribution of its range of rubber clothing.
The off-market deal was brokered by associate director Charlotte Steggles of NG Chartered Surveyors.
Paul Lewis of Invincible Rubber said: “We made the decision to move to our new premises after the lease on our former base came to an end.
“The move means that we will be able to expand and create more jobs and business opportunities in Nottingham and beyond.”
Phenna Group makes third ecological sector acquisition
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which aims to invest in and partner with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies, has made its third acquisition in the ecological sector.
Joining Ecology Solutions and RammSanderson, NLG Ecology augments Phenna Group’s Infrastructure platform, with RammSanderson incorporating the NLG experts into their growing team.
Formed in 2008 and based in Cheshire, NLG Ecology offer a range of ecological services that can be incorporated into client plans, including Preliminary Ecological Assessments, Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey, Protected and Notable Species Survey, Tree Surveys to BS 5837, Ecological Impact Assessment, Protected Species Licence Applications and Mitigation, Habitat Management Plans, Creation and Management of Habitats and Species and Habitat Monitoring.
Neil Lee-Gallon said: “We are delighted to be joining Phenna Group and excited to be working alongside the Ramm Sanderson team. I’ve known them for many years and share the same culture and values so think it’s an excellent fit.
“From our first engagement with the Phenna Group team, we have felt confident that we have found the right partner to support our future growth.”
Oli Ramm, Managing Director at RammSanderson, said: “I’m excited that Neil and his team have decided to join Phenna Group and RammSanderson team to help us expand our offering and give us greater regional presence in the north west.
“The combination of our skills and experience can only benefit our combined customers through expanded capabilities and broader geographic reach. I look forward to working with them to continue our growth and deliver best in class customer service.”
Paul Barry, Chairman and Founder of Phenna Group, added: “I am delighted that Neil and his team have decided to join Phenna Group and warmly welcome them to our team.
“In Ecology Solutions and RammSanderson we already have a strong presence in the sector, adding the capabilities of NLG Ecology is highly complementary and boosts our offerings, extends our geographic presence and augments our Infrastructure platform.
“I look forward to working with Neil, Oli and their teams to deliver their ambitious growth plans.”
Phenna Group were advised by Johnston Carmichael and Browne Jacobson. NLG Ecology were advised by Benchmark International and KBL Solicitors.
Amazon to create new multi-million-pound fulfilment centre in Northampton
Amazon is to create a new multi-million-pound fulfilment centre in Northampton.
The building is set to feature three floors of robotics, with products stowed and customer orders picked using advanced technology.
At launch 1,400 new jobs are expected to be created, with this growing to more than 2,000 jobs within three years.
Neil Travis, Amazon’s regional director, told the BBC: “The East Midlands is an important region for Amazon, with more than 6,000 small and medium-sized enterprise selling partners, and I am delighted to confirm our ongoing commitment with this £500m investment in a new, state-of-the-art fulfilment centre in Northampton.
“Amazon continues to invest in our buildings and innovative technology to provide our people with some of the most advanced workplaces of their kind in the world, ensuring their wellbeing while delivering for our customers.”
PJ Thory and Gemmix make quarry and concrete site acquisitions
Grant Thornton UK LLP’s corporate finance team in the East of England has advised PJ Thory on the acquisition of three quarry sites and Gemmix on the acquisition of five ready-mix concrete sites which is believed to make it the largest independently owned supplier of ready-mix concrete in the UK.
These transactions add to the Group’s well-established operations, acquiring the sites from Heidelberg Materials, which was forced to sell them by the Competition and Markets Authority following its acquisition of Mick George Group.
The ready-mix concrete sites are in Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Leicestershire, while the quarries are located in Norfolk and Northamptonshire.
Toby Hare, Corporate Finance Director at Grant Thornton UK LLP, said: “We are delighted to get this deal over the line, it’s been a complex, rigorous, fast-paced and at times challenging, process.
“PJ Thory has successfully executed multiple opportunistic acquisitions by providing a synergistic fit for the Heidelberg sites, making it the leading independently owned provider in the UK.
“Being deeply embedded within the regional landscape, the team is proud to be supporting another trusted local company on the next, exciting chapter in its growth journey.”
Toby Hare was assisted by Grant Thornton partner Stuart Davies. A Mills & Reeve team made up of James Hunter and Sophie Denton has provided corporate legal advice with support from colleagues in regulatory, property and contracts.
East Midlands recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise revealed
The recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced, celebrating the achievements of UK businesses, including numerous East Midlands firms.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses.
The Award programme, now in its 58th year, has awarded over 7,000 companies since its inception in 1965. His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year.
Businesses are recognised for International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity through social mobility.
Minister for Enterprise Kevin Hollinrake said: “I congratulate the recipients of this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise, who exemplify the talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of British business.
“I wish them every success and commend the invaluable contributions they make to communities both at home and overseas, helping to grow the UK economy.”
The recipients from the East Midlands include: INNOVATION Halo Solutions Ltd – Nottinghamshire – Lifesaving software invented by counter-terrorism police officer, motivated to help after Manchester Arena bombing. Hygienex trading as HSG UK – Derbyshire – HSG’s revolutionary washroom innovation technologies significantly reduce water consumption, save money and improve the environment. Whitehouse Construction Co. Ltd – Derbyshire – A flood resistant door and gasket for domestic properties, providing a passive defence against water. Winbro Group Technologies Ltd – Leicestershire – High performance, flexible manufacturing system for machining; Turbine Blades, Hydrogen Fuel-Cells, Semiconductor and Medical parts. Zeeko Limited – Leicestershire – Innovative process and product range enhancing the established business and offering growth and diversification opportunities. INTERNATIONAL TRADE CMS Cepcor Ltd – Leicestershire – The leading supplier of aftermarket parts to crushing operations around the world. Devol Kitchens Ltd – Leicestershire – Beautifully made furniture and accessories designed and crafted in Britain. Doff Portland Limited – Nottinghamshire – Sale of environmentally responsible horticultural products to European hobby gardeners, and the agricultural sector. Global Brands Limited – Derbyshire – The leading independent producer and creators of remarkable, tasty liquids, enjoyed around the world. Halliday Lighting Limited – Nottinghamshire – Experts in exterior lighting solutions internationally for sports, ports, airports, and industrial applications. Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd – Derbyshire – Global leader in the development and supply of measurement technology for the steel industry. Learn Well Trading Limited – Rutland – Delivering the best kind of open-ended, child-led, play-based learning, into homes and classrooms worldwide. Matrix Corp. Pvt Limited – Northamptonshire – Provider of high-purity non-ferrous recycled metals to customers in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. McGhee Investments Ltd – Derbyshire – Global specialists in the controlled manufacture, machining, recycling, testing and distribution of graphite products. NMS International Group Ltd – Leicestershire – NMS manages complex projects in difficult places. United Cast Bar (UK) – Derbyshire – Global leader in the production and international supply of continuous cast iron bar. Wrendale Designs Ltd – Lincolnshire – Leading supplier of beautiful quality design-led giftware featuring characterful illustrations inspired by the natural world. Zeeko Limited – Leicestershire – Zeeko continues to increase exports of its optical manufacturing technologies to the world’s biggest companies. PROMOTING OPPORTUNITY (THROUGH SOCIAL MOBILITY) Rockleigh Ltd – Northamptonshire – Rockleigh Ltd is providing life-changing opportunities for marginalised people. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ML Operations Ltd, trading as Midland Lead – Derbyshire – Sustainable manufacturer of recycled lead sheet – positively impacting on our team, community and environment. Commenting on the King’s Award, Halo Solutions founder and CEO Lloyd Major said: “Halo is in the business of protecting people and anywhere where the public gather, from train stations to football stadiums, festivals to universities and everywhere in between. It takes great communication and co-ordination of information and resources to keep the public safe at all times. The Halo system is the software that connects everything together to enhance public safety and security, which helps to protect everyone. “Winning the King’s Award for Enterprise is a stunning recognition of the hard work we do in this space as a British tech company, bringing innovative software to the operational environments that need it most. We have an amazing team who are dedicated and committed to public and crowd safety, enabling our clients to keep their public spaces, events and infrastructure safe and protected. “It was a fitting honour that Halo played a part in the safety and security aspects of the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and at the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.” James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Foundries, said: “The team and I are over the moon. It is recognition for our continued product development and commitment to producing a high quality product that has enabled us to open new markets around the world and trade competitively internationally. “Having a King’s Award for Enterprise gives us a further platform to develop and grow the business internationally. There are exciting times ahead for United Cast Bar.” HSG founder and Managing Director Simon Rice said: “We are deeply honoured that our continued innovation in sustainable technologies has been recognised with The King’s Award. “This recognition demonstrates our ongoing commitment to reducing water wastage – enabling our customers to reduce their carbon footprint as well as saving them money and improving the washroom environment. “Although we are a relatively small company, we certainly punch above our weight in the industry and have some of the most prestigious venues in the country on our client portfolio. “It is therefore a huge honour to be able to display The King’s Award emblem on all our packaging and marketing materials and to fly the flag outside our offices in Pride Park.”Contractors working on Hinckley’s Big Pit site warned to clear mud from road or face criminal sanctions
Contractors working on Hinckley’s Big Pit site have been served a Community Protection Notice, requiring them to clear mud from the road surrounding the Ashby Road site or face criminal sanctions.
After an appeal, the Secretary of State gave permission for 60 homes to be built on the site in January 2019. Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council had previously refused planning permission over concerns about access to the site and fears the area would be prone to flooding.
Once work got underway it generated a significant amount of mud on the road and pavements outside the site. As a result, the Council’s planning enforcement team issued a community protection warning letter to Ambion Contractors in January 2024 warning them that they must ensure wheel-washing facilities on site are operated effectively to keep the area clear of mud.
The contractor was also warned to ensure road sweepers are used regularly and particularly when earth is being moved around the site and instructed to create a hard surfaced area for contractors’ vehicles and site visitors to further limit transfer of mud to the road.
A second warning notice was issued last month after further complaints about the site were received from local residents but the road and pavements around the site “continue to be left in an unacceptable state,” so the Council has now issued a Community Protection Notice to the contractor.
Head of Planning at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, Chris Brown said: “Ashby Road remains in an unacceptable state around the site with mud over the road making it dangerous for drivers and pedestrians. This cannot continue.
“The council has now issued two warnings to the contractor which regrettably have not resulted in the improvements we would expect to see, so we have been left with no other option than to serve a Community Protection Notice.
“Non-compliance with any Community Protection Notice (CPN) carries criminal sanctions and can lead to a criminal record. Any company that fails to comply with a CPN can face seizure and forfeiture of items, default works and recovery of costs and/or a fine of up to £2,500 in relation to an individual or up to £20,000 in the case of a body.
“A CPN can be appealed through the magistrate’s court, with sanctions held in abeyance until the outcome of the appeal.
“Leicestershire County Council, as the Highway Authority, have also been made aware of concerns.”
Derbyshire logistics businesses snapped up by Preston firm
Preston-headquartered GBA Logistics has acquired The Silver X Group and Bow Distribution and Warehousing, the Derbyshire-based logistics businesses.
GBA intends to keep the brand names of Silver X and Bow, and the existing management teams led by Gavin Burgess (Managing Director and founder) will join the GBA family.
The merged companies will work together on leveraging their strengths for mutual growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Silver X and Bow to the GBA Logistics family,” said David J Birkbeck, chairman and founder of GBA. “Their longstanding commitment to customer service excellence and their reputation for integrity perfectly complements our own values.
“This acquisition brings together two successful family-owned companies who both have big ambitions for the future.”
Gavin Burgess said: “I am very excited about the future as part of GBA Logistics. GBA’s wide range of services and excellent European network will turbo-charge Silver X’s growth plans.”
Peter Zak, Group Managing Director of GBA Logistics, added: “I am looking forward to working with Gavin and his team, we have built up a trusting relationship and our businesses will be stronger together.”
Glowfrog supports Derby Museums renovation project
With thanks to funding awarded by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and The Wolfson Foundation through the DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund, Pickford’s House will shortly undergo a comprehensive facelift, with each room receiving new interpretation, displays, and more immersive layout exhibits.
These enhancements aim to elevate the visitor experience and offer a fresh perspective on the rich history encapsulated within the walls of this architectural gem.
Among the notable updates, local video production company Glowfrog (www.glowfrogvideo.com) have offered their services pro-bono to create a captivating welcome video for the museum.
This video will provide an engaging overview of the house’s history and cater to disabled visitors who may face accessibility challenges, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Laura Phillips, Head of Interpretation and Display at Derby Museums, said: “The meticulous curation of each room at Pickford’s House reflects our commitment to preserving and presenting history in an engaging manner.
“Glowfrog’s offer to create an inclusive experience through the welcome video resonates with our vision of making the museum accessible to all.”
As a gesture of appreciation and recognition, Derby Museums encourages local businesses to explore Glowfrog Video Production’s website at www.glowfrogvideo.com for more information about their award-winning video production services.
Personal Tax changes coming in from 6 April 2024 – are you ready for them? By Jennie Brown, tax partner at Streets Chartered Accountants
Jennie Brown, tax partner at Streets Chartered Accountants, considers tax changes set to affect individuals’ finances.
As we usher in the new tax year, several significant changes are set to impact individuals’ finances.
The key changes and their impact are outlined below:
Dividend allowance slashed
The tax-free dividend allowance has been reduced from £1,000 to £500. This will affect both those who receive dividends as part of investments but also individuals who trade through a limited company preferring to take a minimal salary, plus dividends – an approach which can be more tax efficient in terms of remuneration planning, as dividends are not subject to National Insurance and taxed at a lower rate than salary.
However, National Insurance Contribution reductions, along with Corporation Tax rises and the reduction in dividend allowance have and will for some make being self-employed or paying them a salary rather than dividends more attractive. Therefore, it may be time to review your remuneration strategy.
Capital Gains Tax threshold reduced
The annual exempt allowance for capital gains tax (CGT) will be halved from £6,000 to £3,000, down from £12,300 just two years ago. Additionally, there will be a new reduced CGT rate of 24% for residential property sales for higher-rate taxpayers, down from 28%, while the basic rate remains unchanged at 18%. These changes may give rise to the need to consider the sale or acquisition of property or other business assets which might be subject to CGT.
National Insurance Contributions reductions for employees and the self employed
Employee national insurance contributions (NICs) will see a further 2% reduction to 8%, following a prior 2% cut announced in the Autumn Statement 2023. This reduction is estimated to save the average worker on £35,400 over £900 annually, resulting in a reduced tax rate of 28% for basic rate taxpayers compared to the previous 32% as of 5 January 2024.
For self-employed individuals, the main rate of Class 4 NICs is being reduced from 9% to 6%, alongside the abolition of the requirement to pay Class 2 NICs. These changes aim to simplify the tax system and save an average self-employed person on £28,000 over £650 annually.
Threshold freezes and adjustments
The basic rate and higher rate tax thresholds will remain frozen until 2028 at £12,570 and £50,271, respectively. This freeze may pull more taxpayers into higher-rate tax brackets, with over a million expected to face 40% tax charges for the first time. The additional tax 45% threshold remains unchanged at £125,140.
Additionally, the income limit for married couples’ allowance increases to £37,000 from the current £34,600.
High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) Increase
The high income child benefit charge (HICBC), the threshold for which child benefit can be received, will rise to £60,000 from the current £50,000. However, the charge is tapered, meaning it may still be beneficial for parents or their partners earning between £60,000 and £80,000 to claim child benefits. The charge increases by 1% for every £200 of income exceeding £60,000 and equals the amount of the child benefit payment if income exceeds £80,000.
Child benefit rates will increase with the eldest child receiving £25.60, up from £24, and other children receiving £16.95, up from £15.90.
Pensions, making retirement better?
For private pensions, the new lump sum allowance will be £268,275, while the lump sum and death benefit allowance will be £1,073,100, with the lifetime allowance being eliminated.
The state pension will increase to £221.20 a week from £203.85 and working tax credit elements will also see adjustments.
Inheritance Tax remains frozen
The IHT threshold remains frozen at £325,000, with no increase for 15 years, perhaps not surprisingly the amount paid to HMRC in IHT is at an unprecedented level with £7.5bn said to be collected in the tax year 23/24. It might therefore be time for many to look at IHT planning in the year ahead.
These changes are all part of an ever-changing tax landscape and continue to highlight the need for individuals and businesses alike to keep up to date, as well as to ensure that they seek advice from specialist tax advisers.
See this column in the May edition of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.
Marketing firms join forces in Chesterfield
Chesterfield-based digital and print solutions agency FWD Motion has set up a new partnership with CLM Digital Marketing, a provider of Content Writing and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) services.
Established in 2005 by David Whiteley and Mike Priestley, FWD Motion has expanded its capabilities by joining forces with CLM Digital Marketing, further building on its commitment to delivering exceptional services to clients across various industries.
As part of this merger, Charlotte Marshall, formerly of CLM Digital Marketing, assumes the role of Director and Co-Owner of FWD Motion.
Mike Priestley said: “The decision to merge these two businesses and partner with Charlotte was an easy one and was driven by recognition that our combined strengths create a more comprehensive offering for clients, encompassing a wider range of services to meet evolving digital marketing needs.”
Charlotte Marshall said: “I look forward to leading a team dedicated to ensuring that the excellent websites created by FWD Motion perform well on search engines, with the ultimate goal always being to help our clients to grow their businesses.”
David Whiteley added: “We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte on board. Her commitment to building lasting client relationships, prioritising environmental sustainability, and cultivating the team is a perfect match with our values. She is the ideal fit to lead FWD Motion into its next twenty years of success”.
Contractor fined after young carpenter dies
A carpentry contractor has been fined after a 22-year-old man died after he was struck by construction equipment on a building site.
On 30 October 2019, Niall McCormack from Kettering, Northamptonshire had been working for KM Carpentry Contractors Limited installing roof trusses at a new build site at Alconbury Weald, Cambridgeshire.
Both the truss packs and party wall spandrel panel had been lifted by crane onto a pair of semi-detached properties the day before the incident – temporarily supported by timber restraints.
Mr McCormack was working with another carpenter to remove trusses from the pack, to then spread and install across the building. As the two carpenters were in the process of spreading, the wind caught a spandrel panel, pushing it against the remaining trusses in the pack. Both the truss pack and spandrel panel fell into the work area. Niall McCormack was struck by the falling material and suffered a fatal head injury.
An investigation by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that KM Carpentry Contractors Limited had failed to identify the risk of wind loading, and the effect this could have on the stability of the spandrel panel prior to being secured in place. The method statement for the installation of the spandrel panels included lifting and placing them on the roof only after the roof trusses had been installed and permanently secured. This could not be followed as they had both been placed on the roof at the same time as the roof trusses the day before.
At Cambridge Magistrates’ Court on 25 April 2024, KM Carpentry Contractors Limited, of High Street, Higham Ferrers pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health & Safety at Work etc Act.
The company was fined £8,000 and ordered to pay £6,974 in costs.
A family statement said: “The whole family has been badly affected by Niall’s loss. One of his friends is going to Australia and we can’t help thinking Niall should be here and going with him.
“Niall has lost the ability to grow up and have children of his own. He won’t be getting married and all the things you do as families. He’s missed out on so much, for what, going to work. No one should go to work and not come back.”
After the hearing, HSE Inspector Jenny Morris said: “Our thoughts are with Niall’s family, a 22-year-old who was just setting out on his career in the construction industry.
“This case highlights the importance of identifying the risks associated with a work activity and ensuring a safe system of work is devised and then followed.”
The prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Samantha Wells and paralegal officer Lucy Gallagher.
Access to capital is top challenge for mid-sized businesses
Trying to source new capital, such as bank loans, grants and private equity, is the most significant challenge for over a quarter of the UK’s mid-sized businesses, according to the latest research from accounting and advisory firm, BDO.
BDO’s bi-monthly survey of 500 mid-sized businesses, which looks at the challenges and opportunities facing UK companies with a turnover between £10m-£300m, reveals nearly one in three (32%) have ambitions to access new finance, such as additional bank loans, government grants, private equity or venture capital, or via a listing on UK public markets in the next six months.
However, difficulties accessing finance are proving problematic and restricting growth ambitions. More than a quarter (27%) say it is one of their biggest challenges over the next six months, with a similar number (26%) now struggling to deliver on their growth plans, such as entering new markets or offering new products or services.
Manufacturers are struggling the most with challenges around accessing new capital (32%), with real estate and construction businesses following closely behind (31%).
These findings come as high borrowing costs, driven by elevated interest rates, make it more challenging for mid-sized businesses to access and service debt finance. In addition, while official data suggests inflation may be easing, higher costs across the board remain a constant battle for businesses looking to grow.
Businesses reported that high costs in the supply chain are a persistent problem. One in five (20%) are suffering from increased costs as a result of changes to trade policy and regulation, such as different tariffs or customs rules, while a similar number (18%) say costs such as fuel are too high.
Business outlook improves after technical recession
Despite difficult trading conditions, mid-sized businesses remain cautiously optimistic. Over half (53%) feel more confident about the outlook for their business for the rest of the year compared with the second half of 2023, when the UK recorded a technical recession.
Many businesses surveyed were buoyed by the prospect of lower borrowing costs, as 27% expect a positive impact from future interest rate cuts. This outstrips concern from businesses who feel less confident, with one in five (20%) saying a cut may come too late to help improve their growth prospects.
Business leaders are calling for the next government to help drive their growth in the long term. Over a third (36%) want to see the Government prioritise improving access to capital, for example by enabling smaller business banks to enter the market or through government grants.
Almost a fifth (19%) want to see less complex regulation around listing on the London Stock Exchange, with a similar number (18%) hoping to see more progress on levelling up the regions outside London and the South East.
Richard Austin, partner at BDO, said: “Access to finance is a huge contributing factor to UK economic growth. Businesses have the appetite to drive forward long-term growth plans, but the difficulties experienced in accessing the capital needed to fund that growth are proving unsurmountable for many.
“Despite remaining resilient and realistic, these businesses need more support to achieve their ambitions. The mid-market is the engine of the UK economy, providing one in four jobs and over £1 trillion in revenues.
“The issues they are highlighting should not be overlooked by policymakers as their growth will play a key role in the overall economic recovery of the UK.”
First East Midlands Combined County Authority Mayor elected
Claire Ward (Labour and Cooperative Party) has been elected as the first East Midlands Combined County Authority Mayor with 181,040 total votes.
The mayor will lead the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), which will have access to more than £4 billion of new investment in the region for skills, transport, housing and regeneration and net zero – with further investment likely to follow.
The vote has been hailed as an “historic moment” in the region’s future which can turn round decades of under-investment.
It also means decisions about key issues affecting the future of people, places and businesses across the East Midlands will now be taken here in the region rather than down in Westminster.
The £4 billion investment has been made possible by a landmark devolution deal which means government has handed back some of its powers to an East Midlands mayor and combined county authority.
The East Midlands Chamber reacted warmly to the appointment, with Chief Executive Scott Knowles saying: “I’d like to extend my congratulations to Claire Ward as she takes on this new role of Combined County Authority mayor. I look forward to sharing insight with Claire into the needs of businesses in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire as this new chapter for the two counties unfolds.
“I wish Claire every success as Combined County Authority mayor and at East Midlands Chamber we stand ready to work with Claire in highlighting the key issues facing businesses in the East Midlands. While there is plenty of growth potential in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, the skills gap and the need for reform in areas like transport are ever present, as are the prohibitive costs of doing business.”
Nikki Paterson, CBI Regional Director for the Midlands, said: “Congratulations to Claire Ward and Richard Parker on their election as East and West Midlands Mayors respectively. After a difficult few years for people and businesses across the Midlands, there’s really no time to waste in getting the local economy firing once again.
“Delivering jobs, opportunity and prosperity has to be at the very top of the new mayors’ ‘to do’ lists. That means pressing ahead with ambitious plans to modernise the local economy and bring high growth sectors to the area.
“Advancing plans to build a Gigafactory at the Coventry Airport site and continuing to support high growth potential sectors, like tech and advanced manufacturing, would be two significant steps to achieving that goal.
“With East Midlands Hydrogen also representing the UK’s largest inland hydrogen cluster, we need to see greater collaboration between the mayors’ office and industry leaders to ensure we can fully capitalise on this incredible driver of growth.”
D2N2 LEP Chair, Elizabeth Fagan, said: “I warmly congratulate Claire on her successful election as our new East Midlands Mayor. I’m truly confident that Claire, our new mayor, will champion the voice of our hard-working, successful businesses, from micro, to SMEs, to global corporates, and ensure a strong economic and inward investment strategy for low carbon economic growth, skills, transport and housing. Our time is now.”
FIFA partnership with Loughborough University paves way for turf testing
A partnership involving Loughborough University and football’s governing body is hoped to improve the durability, safety and performance of artificial pitches.
FIFA have this week issued new testing methods and introduced new testing devices which will be used to assess artificial playing surfaces in line with the highest industry standards.
The changes are the first since 2015 – when the FIFA Test Manual for Football Turf was last updated.
Prof. Steph Forrester from the University’s Sports Technology Institute said: “With the development in artificial pitches since the standards were last updated, it was important that we assess the move in technology and implement a new foundation for testing to take place.
“More and more football is being played every week and these artificial surfaces need to be able to handle it.
“As part of the FIFA Football Turf Technical Advisory Group, we’ve worked incredibly closely with FIFA and Labosport to finalise these new tests which looks to ensure pitch quality across the globe whilst developing new, safe and sustainable innovations and technologies.”
Work at the University led the development of a new advanced artificial athlete algorithm – providing a comprehensive insight into the surface’s performance by measuring peak shock absorption, peak deformation, and energy return – and a lighter and more advanced rotational traction athlete test – providing a deeper understanding of the surface’s rotational traction characteristics.
