East Midlands manufacturers see boost to growth prospects
East Midlands manufacturers are seeing a much stronger picture as they enter the second half of the year with business confidence increasing and the sector forecast to outpace the economy overall in 2024.
The findings come in the Q2 Manufacturing Outlook survey published by Make UK. According to the survey, both output and orders have picked up substantially compared to the first quarter and are set to strengthen in the next three months in line with the national picture.
The East Midlands in particular is set to benefit from increased production in the automotive and food and drink sectors which have a strong presence in the region. This better picture is translating into increased recruitment intentions with job prospects especially strong compared to historical levels.
Business confidence has also risen to equal the highest level recorded since the survey started measuring the indicator in 2014. The only previous occasion it reached the current level was during the immediate post covid rebound.
The survey also asked companies to list their top three priorities for the next Government. More than two thirds of manufacturers (69.1%) said delivering an industrial strategy was the top priority, more than half (54.2%) said strengthening EU/UK relations, while almost half (44%) said reducing the business tax burden. This was followed by investment in national infrastructure (31.5%) and reforming the Apprentice Levy (24.1%).
Make UK is forecasting that manufacturing will grow by 1.2% in 2024 but moderate to 0.8% in 2025. GDP will grow by 0.9% in 2024 and 2% in 2025.
Chris Corkan, Region Director for the Midlands at Make UK, said: “After the economic and political shocks of the last few years there is now strong confidence among manufacturers in the East Midlands. At long last, companies can see concrete signs of growth and a much better economic outlook ahead.
“With prices cooling and, potential cuts in interest rates to come, the next Government must capitalise on this scenario by delivering a modern, long term industrial strategy which goes beyond the 2030s and has cross Government support.”
Practical completion achieved on more units at Dove Valley Park
Clowes together with their lead contractor, Roe Developments have achieved practical completion at plot 10B and 3A at Dove Valley Park, Foston as part of the multi-million-pound property deal with Hines.
Dove Valley Park’s site owners, Clowes Developments instructed Roe Developments to build 10B (152,466 sq ft) and 3B (110,292 sq ft) stand-alone units as part of the 1.36 million sq ft portfolio with global real estate investment, development and property manager, Hines.
10B unit sits on the southern side of the business park whilst 3A is located on the northern side next to GXO.
The brand-new commercial units were designed by IMA architects and comprise of single storey warehouse with office and welfare space split over two floors at the front of the building. The units benefit from a large secure yard with level-access loading bays and docks.
Both plots have considerable onsite parking facilities with disabled bays and EV charging stations. Warehouse roofs were designed to carry photo voltaic panels subject to the occupier’s requirements. Additionally, these units have floor to ceiling double glazed in the warehouse area and 10% roof lights, creating a brighter environment for warehouse workers.
Marc Freeman, Director at Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd, said: “Clowes are pleased to deliver the last two units for Hines’ growing portfolio in the East Midlands and now look forward to delivering the ‘final phase’ of development at Dove Valley Park.
“Clowes together with IMA Architects have recently submitted a planning application to South Derbyshire District Council for the 35.29-acre site creating over half a million square feet of employment space for B2, B8, with ancillary E(g) use. Four units of varying sizes will be created to meet market demand for quality industrial space, along with the necessary associated hard and soft landscaping, car parking and infrastructure.
“In addition, a new Innovation Centre will be created that will serve as a central hub for all businesses in the local vicinity. The aim is to draw people together and provide spaces for gatherings, along with informal meeting space and access to external areas. The Innovation Centre will also serve as a space for start-up businesses to begin and has been developed in consultation with The University of Derby.”
Nottingham fintech Connected Data appoints Head of Data
Data driven technology company Connected Data has appointed Charlie Horner as Head of Data.
Connected Data is opening up and transforming access to vital market data, to improve the way debt is managed by organisations.
As Connected Data expands its data partner network and further integrates them into its services, Charlie will play a key role in evolving and accelerating this work.
Charlie brings with him over 30 years of experience in senior data industry roles that have focused on the effective use of data and analytics to deliver positive outcomes for organisations across various sectors and their customers.
This includes 10 years with the debt management specialist TDX Group (an Equifax company), focusing on the use of data and analytics to help creditors benchmark and improve their collections and recoveries strategies and operations.
In this role, Charlie was instrumental in enabling some of the UK’s major creditors across various sectors make improvements in their debt management activities that led to £millions worth of positive opportunities.
With a specific focus on collections and recoveries, Charlie has also provided strategic and technology advisory and delivery services across clients’ credit management lifecycles for the enforcement market integrator, Just (Part of the Arum Group).
With over 17 years at Experian, the global data and technology company in various analytical, product development and client management roles, Charlie has helped organisations maximise the use of Experian products and services, and achieve significant improvement to their business performance.
On his decision to join the Connected Data team, Charlie said: “I have spent over 30 years applying data and analytics to debt management, so I recognise the immense value that the effective use of data and analytics across the customer lifecycle can bring, specifically when it comes to achieving more positive outcomes for both organisations and their customers too.
“My new role with the Connected Data team will allow me to continue to champion the intelligent use of data to help companies prevent, reduce and resolve customer debt.
“I am very excited to be joining a team of experts that have worked across some of the biggest organisations in the credit industry and a company that is driving real improvements in the way debt is managed with its approach, enabling organisations to more easily contract, acquire, deploy and optimise data from multiple data sources into debt management processes.”
Commenting on Charlie’s appointment, Anthony Sumner, Director of Data and Analytics at Connected Data, said: “The Connected Data vision is to drive true data enablement of customer and debt management processes across all industries, so that organisations can better understand, identify, support and resolve debt issues with their customers.
“Charlie not only brings incredible knowledge in data and analytics, but a reputation with customers and suppliers alike of someone who is driven by doing the right thing and driving positive outcomes for customers and their end consumers. We are delighted to have him join the Connected Data team.”
Kimberley Business Booster Grants open
Businesses in Kimberley interested in applying for the latest Round of Business Booster Grants can now apply online.
The Kimberley Levelling Up Business Booster scheme allows businesses to apply for up to £5,000 to help businesses attract people back into the town centre.
The scheme is part of the Kimberley Means Business Levelling Up project, and follows on from the first two Rounds where over £350,000 has been distributed to local businesses.
The purpose of the scheme is to support local businesses and to enhance the aesthetic appeal of Kimberley, for both residents and visitors, developing people’s pride in the town and attracting footfall in the town centre.
Ryan Dawson, Head of Planning and Economic Development, said: “We’re pleased to be able to announce a third round of grants available for businesses in Kimberley which will help support our local businesses to thrive.
“It’s been great to see how businesses have benefitted from our previous rounds of funding, so we are keen to receive applications from even more businesses in this round with their fresh ideas.’’
Next stages of planning application for new prison approved
Harborough District Council has approved further details in the planning application for the new prison at Gartree, near Market Harborough.
Councillors approved proposals for the appearance and layout of the new prison submitted by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) at Planning Committee on Tuesday 11 June 2024.
The committee also agreed to delegate authority to a designated council officer to approve planning conditions relating to specific issues including drainage and environmental considerations.
These will be discharged in agreement with the Planning Committee Chairman and following receipt of the necessary technical approvals from the expert technical organisations as needed.
In April 2022, Harborough District Council’s planning committee refused the outline application. An appeal from the Ministry of Justice against the decision was received in June 2022.
On Wednesday 15 November 2023 the government announced The Secretary of State’s decision that the Appeal from the MOJ should be allowed and outline permission should be granted, subject to conditions.
The MOJ is expected to start work on site later this year.
Controversial logistics hub gets the go-ahead
Plans for a controversial new logistics hub at St Johns, Enderby, which residents have fought against, have been approved.
Previously receiving refusal last year, the application from the Drummond Estate, now revised, includes plans for warehouses, offices, and gatehouses.
While many elements of the application remain from prior proposals, a planned training centre has now been omitted and replaced by industrial units.
Residents had been concerned about the loss of green space, one of the last between the village and Leicester, the effect on the road network and wildlife.
Public comments on the application saw 2,660 objections made of the 2,699 received.
The vision is for the site to accommodate four logistics buildings and three general industrial buildings.
Central Building refurbishment works commence at Castle Meadow Campus
Refurbishment works have begun to transform the Central Building at the University of Nottingham’s new Castle Meadow Campus.
Delivered by Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, the refurbishment works will breathe new life into the Central Building, which sits on the site of the former HMRC offices, helping to establish the campus as a social and commercial hub for the university.
The Castle Meadow Campus is a zone for entrepreneurship and innovation in the city centre, with a sustainability strategy implemented by the university that assesses each development to ensure carbon neutral targets are being met. Encompassing seven buildings, it features state-of-the-art facilities for its community of students, academics, and industry partners.
The Grade II listed Central Building is undergoing extensive renovation works including the complex replacement of the tensile fabric roof to ensure a future proof building, and the addition of a new mezzanine at first floor level offering views of the roof through a large, glazed roof light at its centre.
A new welcome reception area will provide unobstructed views from the entrance into the heart of the building. Alongside this, a new bistro café with kitchen facilities, study spaces and external seating will provide a social space accommodating over 200 visitors.
The new HV power sub stations are now under construction, with trench ducting between the neighbouring buildings being created and new power supplies being installed. Restoration works to the listed concrete slabs are underway, with specialist contractors carefully removing years of paint and debris, bringing the structure back to its original state.
The replacement of the roof is an extensively technical process due to its intricate design. As the build is a predominantly steel framed structure supported by tensile fabric and tensioned steel cables, it’s fundamental that each fabric panel is dismantled in sequence, to preserve the building and protect the fragile and vulnerable elements.
Structural temporary works will be implemented to support this process taking place over a 20-week period.
G F Tomlinson have a long-standing relationship with the University of Nottingham. Previous schemes delivered by the contractor include the Advanced Manufacturing Building at the Jubilee Campus, along with the Biodiscovery Institute and the East Midlands Conference Centre refurbishment at the University Park Campus. With extensive experience of refurbishing Listed buildings, G F Tomlinson also delivered the multi-million redevelopment of the Nottingham Castle.
As part of their commitment to provide added social value throughout the project, G F Tomlinson have already donated 10 dual side benches from the former changing rooms of the building to local football club, Pelican Colts. Year 10 students from Lees Brook Academy, Bemrose School and Minster School have been provided with work experience placements, working alongside the project team to gain valuable on-site skills and experience, helping them to scope out careers in construction.
Managing Director, Adrian Grocock, said: “We’re pleased to be building on our long-standing working relationship with the University of Nottingham to bring this landmark Central Building at Castle Meadow Campus to fruition. The team has worked extensively to plan intricate works for the unique building and roof design, drawing upon our specialisms and expertise.
“The city centre campus is a shining example of how the city can retrofit existing buildings to create sustainable modern facilities, and the Central Building works will maximise the current building’s potential to become a landmark social and commercial city hub.”
Director of Estates and Facilities at the University of Nottingham, Gary Moss, said: “Creating inclusive, sustainable environments is at the heart of our campus development programme.
“This great work with G F Tomlinson, who share these values, will enable the reimagined Central Building to become a welcoming, vibrant landmark at the heart of our new Castle Meadow Campus. With work well underway, including the complex roof replacement, we’re thrilled to be on track for a Spring 2025 opening of our new city centre campus hub.”
Northampton retail sites acquired
Evolve Estates, part of M Core, has acquired a portfolio of retail units in
Northampton as part of its continued strategic growth.
The deal includes 15-27 and 27/29 on Abington Street, the main road linking the
east of Northampton town centre with the Market Square, and 9/15 and 1-13
Wood Street. Units are let to established occupiers such as Waterstones, Barclays
Bank, Bodycare, Holland & Barrett, and Superdrug.
Evolve Estates acquired the units for an undisclosed sum as part of its proactive
acquisition drive in shopping parades, centres and retail parks across the UK.
Joe O’Keefe, Co-Founder at Evolve Estates, said: “This is an exciting and logical
addition to our portfolio, we already own and manage the Grosvenor shopping
Centre which has proved to be a great success.
“This continuity of ownership is great news for the community and local shoppers to the area, aiming to create spaces where businesses can grow and provide the community with further services and retail opportunities.”
Agents acting on behalf of Evolve were Tim Lloyd at Cited, Gregg Goodman as
the solicitor at Clarke Willmott. The vendor’s solicitor was Mishcon de Reya LLP.
Nine promotions made at East Midlands law firm
East Midlands-based law firm Rothera Bray has made nine promotions across a range of key practice areas, including the elevation of two professionals to partner and four individuals to senior associate roles across four office locations.
Notable among the promotions are Ann Farnill, previously a Senior Associate Solicitor in wills and probate, and Emily Weston, formerly a Senior Associate Solicitor in conveyancing, who have been promoted to partner.
Four colleagues have also been promoted to senior associate: Transport Barrister Olivia Maginn, based at the firm’s Nottingham office, Conveyancing Associates Julekha Nathani and Kiran Phagura, based at the firm’s Leicester office, and Wills and Probate Associate Eleanor Robinson, based at the firm’s West Bridgford office.
Additionally, Family Law Solicitor Charley Kelly, Conveyancing Solicitor Tina Rana, and Wills and Probate Solicitor Aleksandra Cebula, who is based at Rothera Bray’s Beeston office, have been recognised with promotions to associate positions.
Christina Yardley, CEO of Rothera Bray, said: “It is fantastic to be able to recognise and reward the invaluable contribution our people make to the firm and our clients.
“These promotions highlight not only the dedication and excellence demonstrated by each individual but also the firm’s commitment to investing in its people, nurturing talent and fostering growth within its ranks.”
East Midlands fitout specialist Deanestor announces financial results and record £30m order intake
Mansfield-based Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading furniture and fitout specialists, has released its latest financial results for the year ending December 2023 which show a £3m increase in turnover to £22.4m and a record order intake of over £30m.
Forward orders have increased by more than £3m to over £30m compared to the same period last year for projects to be delivered through to the end of 2025.
Turnover rose by £3m in 2023, up from £19.2m in the previous year and again with a healthy operating profit. Net assets in the same period increased by £1.5m.
Projects have been delivered and awarded across diverse market sectors – healthcare, education, student living and build-to-rent – for the manufacture and installation of fitted furniture, bespoke kitchens and specialist joinery, and with a high level of repeat business from tier one contractors and major residential property developers.
William Tonkinson, CEO of Deanestor, said, “This latest set of figures demonstrates strong and sustainable growth for the business across multiple sectors. We have an exceptionally healthy project pipeline and are anticipating an increase in turnover to £24m by the end of 2024.”
“Our financial performance is testament to the hard work of our teams in the East Midlands and in Fife – from design and estimating to manufacturing and work on site – who help our clients achieve the balance between first class fitout services, fitted furniture of the highest quality, and project delivery to the required budget and programme.”
“Quality and longevity are vitally important for fitting out retained assets – from hospitals that are operational 24/7 to co-living apartments that require strong tenant appeal, long-term.”
In Scotland, Deanestor continues to perform well from its regional headquarters in Fife, particularly in the education sector. Current projects include Deanestor’s 13th school furniture and fitout project for Robertson Construction – a £3.8m contract for the new East End Community Campus in Dundee.
Contracts nearing completion in the build-to-rent residential sector include a contract worth around £2.5m to provide 399 bespoke, high specification kitchens for Winvic Construction at New Garden Square in Birmingham – Deanestor’s third project for Moda Living.
Also in the co-living sector, Deanestor has just been awarded a contract for more than 100 kitchens for a multi-tenure project in the EdCity development in London’s White City, working once again with Bowmer + Kirkland.
Hospital fitout contracts totalling £4m have also been secured, the largest of which is a project worth more than £1m for Integrated Health Projects (IHP) – a joint venture between VINCI and Sir Robert McAlpine, to fit out two 54-bed adult mental health facilities at Kingsway Hospital in Derby and in the grounds of Chesterfield Royal Hospital.
Deanestor’s latest major project in the student living sector is a £2m contract to fit out the bedrooms, studio and communal kitchens for a 550-bed scheme.
Nottingham students and entrepreneurs offered free mentoring by Oxford Business College professionals
Nottingham-based students, budding entrepreneurs and local companies can get free help to take their business to the next level with mentoring and support from Oxford Business College.
The college has launched the Oxford Business Innovation and Incubation Centre (OxBIIC), which will support growing businesses with mentoring, workshops and product development sessions.
Fifty businesses – including 39 students and 11 local companies – are taking part in the first intake, and will receive one hour of mentoring every fortnight. Businesses could get up to three years of free mentoring.
The mentoring is being offered at the Oxford Business College campus on Carlton Road in Nottingham, as well as the campuses in Oxford, West London and Slough.
The business experts leading the mentoring have more than 45 years of experience taking companies from inception to IPO and in sectors including manufacturing, retail, food tech and wholesale.
Tech entrepreneur and investor Bryony Tinn-Disbury took a food tech company through three rounds of investment and created an incubator for MedTech entrepreneurs.
Simoni Wong has more than 20 years’ experience at C-suite level and successfully executed two IPOs.
Students, budding entrepreneurs and local businesses can apply to be part of the OxBIIC programme by emailing oxbiic@oxfordbusinesscollege.ac.uk
Mr Sarwar Khawaja, Chairman of the Executive Board of Oxford Business College, said: “The Oxford Business Innovation and Incubation Centre is another way that we are setting our students up to succeed in business. We are also giving back to the local community, and helping turn business ideas into success stories.
“Many Oxford Business College students are born entrepreneurs, and we love to support them as they launch and grow their own businesses. We are delighted to see that 50 firms have already signed up.
“Our flexible courses make it possible for students to hold down a job while studying, making us the perfect place for mature learners and those who want a new career.”
Airfield runway specialist invests £1m in grooving capabilities
Lincolnshire-headquartered global airfield and runway specialist Jointline has made its largest investment since the establishment of the 37-year-old business, to enhance its runway grooving capabilities.
The £1m of new plant and machinery will help drive sustained growth for the privately-owned company, which currently has 120 employees.
Gary Massey, Managing Director of Jointline, said: “The current demand for runway refurbishment and development is the highest it’s been for the past decade. In order for us to fulfil the demand from existing domestic customers – while expanding our overseas operations – we have deployed company funds to purchase multiple new sets of specialist plant and machinery.
“We have also invested in the training and development of long-serving employees and increased our skilled workforce by 20% to 120 employees. This is setting us apart from our competitors, while keeping the team and our customers safe as we carry out grooving assignments on live airfields. I am proud to be leading a business that is set up for the future and able to continue to grow sustainably and profitably.”
Jointline’s investment in the expansion of its grooving division includes the purchase of five ride-on pavement groovers, a bespoke 30-ft articulated trailer and two 44-tonne DAF XF Super Space tractor units. The firm has also invested in the remanufacture of its 30,000-litre capacity water tanker, which has additional safety features, Chapter 8 requirements, and full 360-camera coverage.
Hospitality workers on ‘precarious’ contracts found to be vulnerable to sexual harassment
Hospitality workers on precarious contracts are most likely to experience workplace sexual harassment, according to a new report.
The report reveals how a combination of precarious contracts, sexualisation of service work and the workforce’s demographics have contributed to making hospitality workers more vulnerable to workplace sexual harassment.
Dr Bob Jeffrey, lead author of the research from Sheffield Hallam University, said: “We’ve all seen the headlines over the last year about issues of sexual harassment in the fast-food industry. Our research helps to explain why it’s such a problem, not just in fast-food, but across the hospitality sector.
“Part of the reason for this is the hospitality industry having the largest percentage of zero-hour contracts, which makes it too easy for perpetrators in positions of authority to cut the hours of those who try and speak out.”
Researchers interviewed hospitality workers as part of a wider study on low paid and precarious work. Sexual harassment and unwanted sexual attention were mentioned by a significant number of interviewees.
The report highlights how the hospitality workforce is disproportionately young, female, from a minoritised background, on zero hours contracts and on the lowest rates of pay.
All of which make them more vulnerable to sexual harm, with workers on precarious contracts 60 per cent more likely to report being a victim of sexual harassment, and women generally reporting sexual harassment rates twice as high as men.
Findings showed that several of the women interviewed were harassed by their manager or supervisor, who used their position of authority and responsibility for their working patterns to harass them and control their working lives.
Forvis Mazars appoints audit partner in the East Midlands
Forvis Mazars, a global professional services network, has appointed Mitesh Thakrar as an audit partner in the East Midlands.
Following the recent launch of Forvis Mazars, the newest top 10 global professional services network, Mitesh joins the firm at a period of great opportunity in the East Midlands. He will also be joining an expanding local partnership team following the appointments of Andy Hickson, Claire Cowen and Mark Surridge last September.
In his new role Mitesh, who has spent his entire career in the East Midlands and specialises in working with privately owned businesses, will be responsible for further strengthening the audit practice and supporting the firm as it continues to grow its client base in the region.
Mitesh joins Forvis Mazars following a strong financial reporting period in the East Midlands. This has seen the team expand by 10% over the last year and income rise to in excess of £40m across the region. Mitesh joins the firm from Azets, where he was a partner and regional head of audit (East Midlands).
Steve English, office managing partner for Forvis Mazars across the East Midlands, said: “Mitesh brings over a decade’s experience of working in audit and serving clients across the East Midlands.
“His insights into the local market will be invaluable as we look to continue to grow our presence and offering in the region. Mitesh’s dedication to his clients and to audit quality mean he will be a fantastic addition to the team and we look forward to welcoming him.”
Activewear retailer enters voluntary liquidation
Activewear retailer, Lucy Locket Loves has entered voluntary liquidation, owing just under £900,000.
It follows supply chain issues, warehouse floods that caused downtime and lost stock, rising import costs that impacted margins, and the cost of living crisis hitting revenue.
The Dronfield-based business was also affected by a change from monthly to quarterly rent payments for its warehouse, which it was unable to meet.
Founder Lucy Arnold said: “Firstly, I want to apologise to everyone impacted by this, especially our customers and the LLL Team. Despite everyone’s hard work, the challenges of the past 18 months were overwhelming, leading us to enter voluntary liquidation on May 28, 2024.
“Supply chain issues, warehouse floods that caused downtime and lost stock, rising import costs that slashed our margins, and the ongoing cost of living crisis hit our revenue hard and disrupted our operations. These essentially made our traditional business model obsolete.
“In December 2023, we managed to negotiate monthly rent payments for our warehouse, but by May 2024, the owners insisted on reverting to full quarterly payments, which we couldn’t meet. This led to their abrupt decision to take control of our warehouse on May 10th with no notice, disrupting our operations and leaving us without working capital.
“Facing no operational ability and mounting financial obligations, we made the difficult decision to enter voluntary liquidation.
“This has been incredibly distressing, particularly for our team, who were reluctantly made redundant. We deeply regret the impact on our staff and their families and I can never say sorry enough for how abruptly this happened. This has personally been the most upsetting part of this process.”
The business aims to relaunch the Locket Loves website in Summer with a new look, operational hub, and new leggings designs.
In 2020, Arnold was included in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list.
Rolls-Royce SMR wins place on shortlist of two for nuclear development in Sweden
Swedish multinational power company Vattenfall has put Derby-based Rolls-Royce SMR on a shortlist of just two companies competing to potentially deploy a fleet of small modular reactors in Sweden.
This selection follows a thorough assessment process in which Rolls-Royce SMR had the opportunity to present a fundamentally different approach to building nuclear projects and a modularisation strategy focused on risk reduction to Vattenfall, an experienced and technically respected energy utility.
Rolls-Royce SMR CEO Chris Cholerton said: “Success in reaching the final two, in such a fiercely competitive process, reflects the benefits of our integrated power station design, our approach to modularisation and our use of proven nuclear technology.
“Rolls-Royce SMR is the fastest and most affordable way of bringing new nuclear power online and we are excited to work with utilities and industrial customers around the globe, to unlock sustainable sources of low-cost, low-carbon electricity for decades to come.”
Vattenfall’s focus will be deployment at the Ringhals nuclear site with a project that, at the earliest, is operational in the first half of the 2030s, with assessments for SMR and large-scale reactors ongoing.
Sweden has said it needs an additional 100-250 TWh of electricity production over the next 25 years and Vattenfall is poised to play a critical role in the country’s energy transition, including integrating new nuclear capacity into the energy mix.
Rolls-Royce SMR is on track to complete Step 2 and immediately enter Step 3 of the Generic Design Assessment by the UK nuclear industry’s independent regulators this summer. This will be the most important regulatory milestone to date – confirming Rolls-Royce SMR’s first mover advantage as the leading technology in Europe.
Essential strategies for boosting workplace safety
Ensuring workplace safety is crucial for any organisation. By prioritising safety, companies can protect their employees and create a productive environment. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies to enhance workplace safety.
Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
Regular risk assessments are essential to identify potential hazards. By systematically evaluating the workplace, employers can pinpoint areas that may pose risks to employees. This process helps in developing strategies to mitigate these hazards.
Conducting thorough risk assessments involves inspecting machinery, checking for electrical faults, and ensuring that emergency exits are accessible. It’s also important to review these assessments periodically, especially after any significant changes in the workplace. This proactive approach can prevent accidents and ensure a safer working environment.
Provide Comprehensive Training
Proper training is vital for workplace safety. Employees should be well-informed about safety protocols and how to handle emergencies. Training programs should cover various aspects, from operating machinery safely to emergency evacuation procedures.
One effective training method is first aid training. Offering first aid training in Nottingham through reputable services can equip employees with life-saving skills. Companies like Safe Haven Training provide comprehensive first aid courses that are essential for workplace safety. This type of training not only prepares employees for emergencies but also fosters a culture of safety within the organisation.
Implement Safety Protocols
Having clear safety protocols in place is crucial. These protocols should be documented and easily accessible to all employees. They should cover a range of scenarios, including fire safety, handling hazardous materials, and using personal protective equipment (PPE).
Safety protocols should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current best practices. Employees should be encouraged to familiarise themselves with these protocols and adhere to them strictly. This ensures that everyone knows how to act in an emergency, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Promote a Safety Culture
Creating a safety culture is about more than just policies and procedures. It involves fostering an environment where safety is a shared responsibility. Management should lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to safety in all their actions.
Encouraging open communication about safety concerns is also important. Employees should feel comfortable reporting hazards or unsafe practices without fear of repercussions. Regular safety meetings and feedback sessions can help in addressing any issues promptly. A strong safety culture ensures that everyone in the organisation is actively engaged in maintaining a safe workplace.
Maintain Equipment Regularly
Regular maintenance of equipment is critical for ensuring workplace safety. Faulty machinery or tools can cause serious accidents and injuries. Therefore, it’s essential to have a routine maintenance schedule in place.
Maintenance should include regular inspections, servicing, and prompt repairs of any damaged equipment. Keeping detailed records of maintenance activities can help in tracking the condition of machinery and identifying patterns that may indicate potential issues. Well-maintained equipment not only ensures safety but also improves efficiency and productivity.
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for protecting employees from hazards. Depending on the nature of the job, PPE might include items such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and high-visibility clothing. Employers should provide the necessary PPE and ensure that employees are trained in its proper use.
It’s important to regularly check PPE for any signs of wear and tear and replace it when necessary. Proper storage of PPE can also extend its lifespan. By prioritising the use of PPE, employers can significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries.
PIB opens new branch in Chesterfield
PIB Risk Management and PIB Insurance Brokers come together in new offices in Chesterfield for the company, which already has bases in Derby, Leicester, and Lincoln.
The company says the expansion not only underscores its commitment to growth, but also reflects dedication to fostering professional development through the latest training facilities.
Rob Armitage, Business Development Director, PIB Risk Management, said: “We are looking forward to the positive impact that the Chesterfield branch will have on our operations and the local community. The blend of sales expertise and training excellence housed under one roof represents a significant step forward in our journey of growth and innovation.
“The new branch is a testament to our company’s vision of creating dynamic spaces that blend functionality with innovation. Equipped with advanced technology and modern amenities, the Chesterfield location is set to become a pivotal sales hub, driving business growth and customer engagement in the region.
“Moreover, the facility features dedicated training rooms, tailored to provide comprehensive training programmes for our colleagues and the businesses we support. Our external training schedule includes a wide range of accredited and non-accredited courses, tailored to our clients’ requirements.
“The opening of the Chesterfield branch is part of a broader strategy to expand our footprint in the region. By establishing a strong presence in the Midlands, we are better positioned to meet the needs of our clients and support the local economy. This expansion not only brings new job opportunities to the area but also strengthens our ties with the community.
Motorpoint Group sees its “most difficult” financial year
Motorpoint Group, the independent omnichannel vehicle retailer, has called the past financial year the most difficult in its history, due to multiple negative headwinds in the macro environment.
It came as the firm announced its final results for the year ended 31 March 2024 (FY24), in which revenue decreased by 24.6% to just under £1.1bn.
Meanwhile the business posted an underlying loss before tax of £8.2m and a reported loss before tax of £10.4m, both widening from £0.3m in the year prior.
Mark Carpenter, Chief Executive Officer of Motorpoint Group PLC, said: “The past financial year was the most difficult in our history, with multiple negative headwinds in the macro environment such as rising borrowing costs and subdued customer demand, coupled with industry specific issues such as lower inventory and deflation.
“The resilience of our cash generation evidences the strength of our business model and we now look forward to continuing our journey of profitable growth as the improving trends of Q4 have continued into Q1.
“Following the rightsizing exercise of FY24, we now have a lean, technology-enabled business. I am very confident in our ability to scale profitability and cash generation as the market improves, which will allow us to invest further in growth.”
The company noted a positive start to FY25, with April and May both profitable.Significant refurbishment of Sutton Community Theatre to create ‘Cornerstone’
Planning has been granted for the refurbishment and upgrade of the Sutton Community Theatre, which will be rebranded as ‘Cornerstone’ upon re-opening and designed by Nottingham-headquartered CPMG Architects.
The Cornerstone project aims to transform the existing theatre into a vibrant multifunctional entertainment space, catering to a wide range of events including professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights, academy concerts, and various community uses.
The upgrades come at a crucial time as the existing facilities age and face issues including a failing heating system, outdated lighting, inoperable microphone systems and inadequate changing rooms. The scope of works will largely be internal, providing complete renovation, refurbishment and reconfiguration to optimise the functionality of the theatre through enhanced facilities.
This includes the creation of a new theatre foyer, refurbishment of the auditorium, upgrades to the stage area, provision of new dressing rooms and backstage facilities, and installation of modern lighting and audio-visual systems.
Steve Milan, associate at CPMG Architects, said: “This represents a significant step forward in the efforts to bring the vision of Cornerstone to life, and providing the community with a space that is truly fit-for-purpose and something all can take pride in. The approval underscores our commitment to delivering architectural solutions that not only meet the functional needs of our clients but also enrich the fabric of the communities they serve.
“While the entrance to the theatre will remain unchanged from a practical perspective, a new foyer will be created at the front of the building, relocating a number of offices to create the new space and visitor facilities. In addition to the internal upgrades, there are a number of external improvement works planned, including recolouring the fly-tower cladding and installation of signage for Cornerstone’s new branding – all designed to be visible from the surrounding streets.”
The existing auditorium space will be given a complete refurbishment, with new flooring, ceiling, acoustic wall treatments and doors. A new retractable seating installation will provide 168 tiered seats, and specialist lighting will be installed throughout, to cater for a range of events. Meanwhile, a newly-constructed balcony will provide a further 24 seats and space for wheelchair users.
Backstage, existing areas will be completely stripped out to reconfigure the space to suit modern requirements. This will see replacement of narrow staircases, and two new dressing rooms, performance green room and shower facilities to the upper ground floor. On the first floor, a further two dressing rooms will be created along with a laundry room, theatre workshop and housing for amplifier and lighting dimmer equipment.
A key focus of the refurbishment is sustainability and energy efficiency. A comprehensive strategy has been developed to ensure that all upgrades meet the highest standards of efficiency and minimise carbon footprints, while working within any constraints. This includes the integration of passive design measures, efficient engineering approaches and the use of natural daylighting where appropriate, and heat recovery systems.
John Bennet, executive director of place at Ashfield District council, said: “This project will help us achieve our goals of creating a vibrant and safe night-time economy in Ashfield. As the new Planetarium will connect young people to space and raise their aspirations, Cornerstone Theatre will ignite their creativity and imagination.
“We are so proud to be investing in arts and culture, to allow more people of all backgrounds, young and old, in Ashfield and beyond to experience the magic of cinema, live theatre and music in an easy to access place.
“All our regeneration projects, funded through over £100million external investment, have the common aim – to create an Ashfield that is a great place to live, work, play, study and visit.”
The Sutton Community Theatre project is one of those under Ashfield District Council’s Future High Streets funding programme through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), aiming to raise perceptions of the town and to contribute towards a vibrant and safe night-time economy in Sutton.
Stage Right Theatre Consultancy has been appointed to specify the theatre lighting and audio-visual systems.
