Azets strengthens regional senior leadership team

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Azets strengthens regional senior leadership team

Azets has strengthened its regional senior leadership team by appointing Danielle Hamill as Regional Managing Partner of East and West Midlands. The appointment comes at a pivotal time of growth for Azets, as the business looks to double total revenue to become a £1bn firm by 2027.

With over 16 years of experience, Danielle joined the firm (previously Baldwins) at 16 years old as an apprentice. Having progressed her career with Azets, she is a partner within Azets’ Coventry office and an ACA-qualified chartered accountant.

Danielle provides a range of services to her clients which include accounts, taxation, audit & business advisory. Whilst working with a wide range of clients, Danielle specialises in owner-managed SMEs and UK subsidiaries of foreign groups. Danielle manages a diverse portfolio of businesses, across a range of industries including construction, engineering, legal & professional services, and retail.

On her appointment, Danielle said: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Regional Managing Partner for East and West Midlands, as we continue to grow in the region.

“We have an established office network in the area that includes teams in Tamworth, Coventry, Nottingham, Wolverhampton and Stourbridge and the next stage of our journey looks incredibly exciting.

“We’re looking forward to expanding within specialist areas of accounting such as medical audit, so that we continue to meet the needs of our expanding business, as well as supporting the regional business community.”

Richard Goddard, Regional Managing Director of Azets Central and West, added: “Despite the challenging economic background, as a region, we continue to go from strength to strength thanks to a collaborative approach from our teams and clients.

“The appointment of Danielle reflects our commitment to support continued growth, so we can continue to meet the needs of our expanding business, as well as helping the growing number of SMEs in the country across complex areas of accounting and business services.”

Build for the Future, East Midlands returns with expert workshops to showcase construction innovation and expertise

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Build for the Future, East Midlands returns with expert workshops to showcase construction innovation and expertise
With two weeks to go until the coveted Build for the Future, East Midlands event, Heritage Lincolnshire and Archaeological Project Services have added more speakers and sessions to the agenda.  The event, which is set to take place on 23 April 2024, will celebrate its fifth year in 2024 and aims to address the evolving needs of those working within the construction, property, heritage, sustainability, and trade industries by offering a unique blend of insightful discussions, networking opportunities and workshops. One of the highlights of this year’s event will be a series of exclusive talks and workshops dedicated to growing your business and gaining key contacts in the industry, including a Meet the Buyer session with Compliance Chain. This session will enable local businesses to connect with leading contractors such as Kier and Wates Construction and help grow their supply chains in the East Midlands.  Attendees can also expect expert-led sessions offering valuable insights into strategies for ensuring your business complies with the latest legislative changes including the Building Safety Act 2022, in addition to talks surrounding contracts for successful building projects, demonstrations and a business networking session hosted in conjunction with the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce Construction and Property Network with over 80 businesses in attendance.  Event Organiser, Hannah Tomlinson of Globella said: “Since the event launched in February 2020 it has grown significantly and year-on-year we receive more and more interest from attendees and exhibitors alike. We are really looking forward to the event later this month and providing a platform that connects businesses across the East Midlands to collaborate, share knowledge and gain inspiration for the future of the industry.” In addition to the informative sessions, the event will also feature an expansive exhibition floor displaying the latest products, services, and innovations from leading industry suppliers. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with exhibitors, discover cutting-edge solutions and forge valuable partnerships to propel their businesses forward.  For more information about the events and to book your tickets, please go to www.buildforthefuture.co.uk. Free delegate tickets can be booked online at Build for the Future: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/build-for-the-future-east-midlands-2024-tickets-682312243287 Free delegate tickets can be booked online at Heritage for the Future: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritage-for-the-future-east-midlands-2024-tickets-682322855027

Renewable energy company secures framework appointment

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Renewable energy company secures framework appointment

Nottingham-based Geo Green Power has been appointed to Fusion21’s Heating, Renewables and Electrical framework which supports UK Public Sector organisations in accessing a supply chain of trusted contractors for the full provision of Heating, Renewables, and Electrical works.

Fusion21 is a national social enterprise specialising in efficient and impactful public sector procurement and social value services. Geo Green Power’s 14 years of experience in installing renewable systems, demonstrable expertise and a number of key industry accreditations secured their appointment to the framework which will run until 2028.

Chris McQuillan, Framework Manager at Fusion21, said: “We are delighted to welcome all of the new suppliers onto Fusion21’s Heating, Renewables and Electrical Framework, including Geo Green Power. The tender process was highly competitive and has identified the best contractors for our members to use for the delivery of a whole range of heating and electrical programmes.

“Members accessing this framework will benefit from flexible call-off options, UK-wide coverage, and the option to deliver social value to their communities, aligned to their organisational priorities.”

Public sector organisations can now access Geo Green Power’s services, which include the installation of solar PV, battery storage, EV charging and heat pumps in addition to ongoing service and maintenance support through the Fusion21 framework.

Managing Director at Geo Green Power, James Cunningham, said: “We were drawn to Fusion21 as they share many of the same values as ourselves with regards to their social and environmental targets and taking positive climate action.

“We’re delighted to be part of the framework and are looking forward to discovering what opportunities it opens up for us. In the last 18 months we have gone from strength to strength, expanding our team and moving into new premises. We’re confident that we will deliver the outstanding results that Fusion21’s members expect.”

Derby IT and Telecoms company expands team

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Derby IT and Telecoms company expands team

Derby-based IT and Telecoms company Link ICT has further expanded its IT support technical team following the appointment of Adam Walsh and Andy Barton.

The appointments follow a number of new client wins to provide outsourced IT services to four more local Derbyshire schools and project work won as part of the Government’s ‘Connect the Classroom’ initiative which is providing funding for schools to upgrade IT networks to improve IT performance.

Adam, who lives in Chellaston, holds several BTEC qualifications related to information systems and creative technology. He joins Link ICT as an IT support apprentice and will be mentored to provide customers with first line IT support.

He said: “I am very interested in IT and believe this apprenticeship role will enable me to build on the knowledge I have gained at college with practical ‘hands on’ experience working at Link ICT.”

Also joining the team is Andrew Barton who is an experienced IT technician who holds various hardware manufacturers accreditations, Comptia Server, AEB Exams and numerous software skills. 

Also from Derby, Andrew previously worked for Specialist Computer Centre as a senior network and hardware engineer and team leader.  

In his new role, Andrew will be broadening his software skills and utilising his vast knowledge and customer experience. He said: “Working at Link ICT has a real family feel with a great team spirit. I like the fact everyone gets involved and there is a sense of real team effort.”  

RSM UK promotes new partner in Leicester

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RSM UK promotes new partner in Leicester

Audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK has promoted Jo Duddle to partner to help shape the future of the firm and drive growth from within its own ranks.

Based in the accounting and business advisory team in Leicester, Jo joined the firm as a manager eight years ago and has successfully progressed her way through the ranks to partner.

Jo predominately works as part of the finance function support solution across the Midlands. With over 20 years’ experience she leads on a portfolio of entrepreneurial and scaling businesses, providing support to them across advisory, digital and management information, alongside their compliance needs.

Jo Duddle, partner at RSM UK, said: “Becoming a partner at RSM is a huge achievement. It’s an exciting time for the business so I’m thrilled to play a part in shaping the future of the firm and to continue supporting our clients in navigating opportunities in the everchanging business environment.”

Helen Brocklebank, regional managing partner in the Midlands at RSM UK, added: “I’m delighted to see Jo embark on this next chapter in her career at RSM. Jo’s promotion is a reflection of her hard work, talent and dedication, as well as RSM’s commitment to investing in and developing its people.

“Jo will have an integral role in ensuring we continue to deliver a premium service to clients in the Midlands, nationally and internationally.”

East Midlands retailers show interest in Ted Baker rescue

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East Midlands retailers show interest in Ted Baker rescue
Retail giants Next, based in Leicester, and Frasers Group, based in Shirebrook, have reportedly shown interest in snapping up fallen fashion brand Ted Baker’s European arm. Both companies, which have a history of acquiring troubled retailers, are understood to have contacted administrators at Teneo Advisory, according to The Times, to explore a sale of all of or parts of Ted Baker. This week Teneo revealed the closure of 15 Ted Baker stores in the UK, including in Nottingham, and the cutting of head office roles, seeing the loss of 245 jobs. Each store is said to currently be loss making, with administrators saying there is no prospect of a return to profitability.

Planned closure of Nottingham Ted Baker store underlines need for investment in the city, says Chamber

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Planned closure of Nottingham Ted Baker store underlines need for investment in the city, says Chamber
The imminent closure of Nottingham’s Ted Baker store on Bridlesmith Gate further reinforces the challenges faced by city centre retail and the need for investment, says East Midlands Chamber. The store is one of 11 across the country set to close by 19th April after the brand entered administration last month. East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Chris Hobson said: “The Ted Baker store has been a familiar part of Bridlesmith Gate for a number of years so it’s sad to hear its doors are to soon close, especially in a city centre with so much growth potential. “The announcement is a reminder of the challenges faced by the retail sector, however, new and fledgling businesses with their sights on a traditional high street presence shouldn’t be discouraged – where possible businesses should wholeheartedly embrace digital technology and the wide customer base it provides, so that huge online market can be complementary to their bricks and mortar offering. “It’s also a timely reminder that the public and private sector must work together to support the development and modernisation needed to pull people into the city centre to work, study and live. “Getting the city centre where it needs to be so that people enjoy leisure time alongside their work life is within reach, but continued investment and following through on plans is critical.”

Vistry Group to deliver 1,000 homes in two deals with Homes England

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Vistry Group to deliver 1,000 homes in two deals with Homes England
Vistry Group, the mixed tenure housebuilder, has secured two partnership deals with Homes England, delivering 1,000 homes. The majority of the 1,000 new homes will be manufactured off-site using timber frames from the Vistry Works East Midlands factory in Leicestershire. Vistry Group has been appointed by Homes England to deliver the regeneration of City Hospital. In bringing this site forward for development, the company has worked closely with Birmingham City Council and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust. The site has outline planning permission for 750 homes, of which more than 50% will be affordable or private rent tenures, with the remaining homes for open market sale. The site will also have more than 8,000 sq ft reserved for commercial and community space. A second partnership deal in Hardingstone, Northamptonshire, will see Vistry deliver 250 mixed tenure homes with more than 50% presold. The site is also formerly owned by Homes England and has outline planning permission. Greg Fitzgerald, chief executive of Vistry Group, said: “These deals further evidence the benefit of our long-term strategic partnership with Homes England, enabling the Group to deliver a significant number of mixed tenure homes in the Midlands. “Furthermore, the unique capabilities of Vistry Works will allow us to utilise timber frame manufacturing at scale across both sites, speeding up housing delivery whilst reducing carbon emissions.”

West Northamptonshire entrepreneurs awarded business grants

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West Northamptonshire entrepreneurs awarded business grants
18 entrepreneurs from West Northamptonshire have been awarded business grants of £2,000 from the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire’s (BIPC) Build Your Business initiative. This project has received £374,600 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, allocated by West Northamptonshire Council who host BIPC Northamptonshire for the county. Build Your Business sees the potential entrepreneurs participate in various business support sessions, designed to help strengthen their business and enable them to establish sustainable new enterprises, followed by the opportunity to secure seed funding. The successful grant winners of the first round of grants are:
  • Alessandra Amico-Jones – Alessandra Amico-Jones EFT
  • Chris Bartley – Towcester Carpet Cleaning Company
  • Leah Campbell – The Inclusive Strengths Co
  • Callie Early – Ace Decluttering
  • Milly Fyfe – No Fuss Meals For Busy Parents
  • Brendan Gilbert & Harry Evans – TwelveTwentyFive
  • Stephen Hodgkinson – Affordable EV Charging Solutions
  • Nicola Kay – Kay Howard Tutoring
  • Zoe Laughton – Laughton Young Consulting Limited
  • Roddy Lloyd-Jones – LJPhotostop
  • Tessa McAndrew – Remidy Clinic
  • Francis Robertson-Marriott & Ralph Major – The Cool Classics (TCC)
  • Aveline Rust & Aprille Russell – Glam-Start Hair and Beauty Academy
  • Davit Sikharulidze – Mavis Technologies Limited
  • Vicky Skinner – Animal Focused
  • Gareth Watson & Sarah Watson – Procare Clean
  • Adrian Watt – Brackley Ewaste Recycling
  • Michelle Westgarth – Wootton Wellness Counselling Services
Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration & Growth, said: “A huge congratulations to all the winners of the Build Your Business programme. “Entrepreneurs and start-up businesses thrive in West Northamptonshire and we are dedicated to delivering the necessary support to amplify these activities even more and enable long-term business survival in the area. “It is for this reason that we are proud to host the BIPC Northamptonshire Team in West Northamptonshire Council, along with hosting the South East Midlands Growth Hub and our very own Economic Growth & Inward Investment Service. “As a local authority we want to see every business in our area thrive and for this reason we have allocated the majority of our UK Shared Prosperity and Rural England Prosperity funding towards supporting businesses and creating employment opportunities to sustain the local economy. I encourage all businesses to take a look at our funding website to find details on how to apply for all of our support and grants.”

Revised plans lodged for prime Derby riverside site

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Revised plans lodged for prime Derby riverside site
Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments have submitted revised plans for the redevelopment of one of the final plots of vacant land within Derby’s newly revitalised Cathedral Quarter. 195 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments are now proposed for the Full Street site, within a redesigned finely detailed u-shaped nine-storey red brick building. The revised plans address concerns from stakeholders, with a reduction in the height of the proposed development tabled to bring it within the confines of the extant office planning permission. The top/ninth floor has been redesigned with a discreet glazed curtain wall, set-back by 1.5m to create full roof terraces. The stepped roofline – and loss of four apartments alongside the riverside elevation – will enable the proposed development to blend in with the existing adjacent residential building. The revised dwelling mix introduces studio apartments and two-bedroom duplex homes, along with fully glazed cantilevered balconies to all plots overlooking Cathedral Green and the River Derwent. The 0.2Ha site is bounded by Full Street to the west and the River Derwent to the east. Measuring approximately 50m wide by 50m long, the site was previously occupied by a police station, which was constructed in the 1960s and demolished in 2013. Phase One of Wilson Bowden’s Full Street development was completed in 2016. It includes the refurbishment of the Riverside Chambers office complex, delivery of 46 new apartments at Number One Cathedral Green, and a Premier Inn hotel. This remaining parcel of land had been earmarked for an office development of up to 100,000 sq ft, but is instead being brought forward by Wavensmere Homes for an apartment scheme, benefiting from a waterside location, with views of the 16th Century Derby Cathedral and its 212ft tower. Also lying adjacent to the site is the Museum of Making at the restored Derby Silk Mill, which re-opened to the public in 2021. The Full Street residential development proposals are designed to complete the jigsaw of this prime Derby city centre site by providing dual aspect landscaped public realm over Cathedral Green, whilst enhancing activity at street level. Nottingham-based Franklin Ellis Architects has drawn up the revised plans, inspired by the traditional architecture and heritage assets within the vicinity. In addition to the apartments, 2,000 sq ft of mixed-use space has been accommodated at ground floor level to overlook Cathedral Green and Full Street. A range of uses are earmarked for this space, including a new café and residential facilities such as a gymnasium, co-working zone, and concierge point. James Dickens, Managing Director of Birmingham-based Wavensmere Homes, said: “This challenging brownfield site occupies one of the best locations within Derby city centre and benefits from rich views of the Cathedral Quarter and the River Derwent. “It has been vacant for 10 years and the opportunity to create an exemplary development, reflective of the prime gateway location is exciting. “Our proposed scheme will help towards Derby City Council’s target to provide a minimum of 11,000 new homes throughout the city over the coming decade. “By appropriately densifying this derelict brownfield site within such a prized and popular city location, we will create highly energy-efficient homes for well over 250 people who will then spend their time and disposable income locally. “We look forward to continuing to work with Derby City Council’s Officers, Councillors, and wider stakeholders, as our revised plans are considered.” The plans for the Full Street site include two communal staircases, courtyard car parking provision and secure bicycle spaces. The latest green energy features will be incorporated into the design for the new homes, to enable a high EPC rating to be targeted, whilst exceeding the new Part L building regulations. The scheme will promote sustainable development through the use of low carbon materials, modern methods of construction, and renewable energy generation via roof mounted solar PV panels. Matthew Branton, Managing Director of Franklin Ellis Architects, said: “Throughout the design process, our team has been conscious of the need for this proposed development to carefully close the wider urban block and positively front Full Street, Cathedral Green and the waterside, improving the safety, attractiveness, and animation of the adjacent public areas. “We have taken a context led approach to a layered facade design, incorporating quality detailing and a refined material palette, whilst paying homage to the surrounding architecture and heritage assets, ensuring the Cathedral is always the star of the show. “Since first submitting plans last October, we have spent considerable time refining the design and generating these revised plans, which address stakeholder feedback.”

Eight-figure investment works complete for logistics firm

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Eight-figure investment works complete for logistics firm

Midlands-based contractor, G F Tomlinson, has completed the latest scheme for Ascott Transport Limited (ATL) at their Midlands Hub in Foston, Derbyshire, as part of a major eight-figure investment project.

The development, which is the second project that G F Tomlinson has constructed for ATL, includes a new 127,000 sq ft warehouse with 14 loading bays, offices, welfare rooms and external concrete yards and roads.

The modern facility will enable ATL to meet increased demand from both new and existing clients as part of their strategic expansion plans.

The first phase of the development, which allowed the company to almost double its Midlands operating capacity, included a 190,000 sq ft high-bay warehouse, three-storey gatehouse, high-spec offices, workshop, outside storage, and parking facilities.

The addition of the new warehouse not only expands ATL’s operational capacity but also cements its position as a major logistics and storage hub in the Midlands.

Technological innovations within the building included the warehouse’s internal floor, which was designed and constructed with no joints, to facilitate the smooth movement of semi and fully automated MHE throughout the warehouse.

The development also boasts a number of sustainable features including photovoltaic panels, which will generate enough solar power to sufficiently supply the warehouse’s energy requirements, and their recent investment into electric trucks, along with 400mm thick walls and roof to create a thermally stable warehouse and increased insulation to the office areas.

During the project, a pre-cast retaining wall was infilled on-site using surplus soil, reducing waste and transportation costs. An attenuation pond adjacent to the warehouse was also created to hold the site’s surface water to prevent flooding.

Andy Sewards, Chairman of G F Tomlinson, said: “Building on our long-standing relationship with ATL, it’s been a privilege to be part of the next phase of their growth plans. We’re pleased to have reached this completion milestone, which reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality projects that contribute positively to the communities we serve.”

Pete Ascott, Managing Director of ATL, said: “G F Tomlinson have been a consistent partner for us throughout this journey and both phases of the development have been a great success. The second phase adds a further 21,000 pallet storage capacity to our portfolio so now, with the development complete, we can begin our extensive growth plans and support our clients with industry leading quality warehousing space.”

Just not cricket – community farm fears for future as academy ground gets green light

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Just not cricket – community farm fears for future as academy ground gets green light

An award-winning community farm and wellbeing centre which has been described in parliament as a “point of light” in supporting some of Northamptonshire’s most vulnerable individuals is under threat as the proposed cricket ground for Northamptonshire’s academy, women’s and disability sides appears to have been given approval.

The proposed site backs on to New Manor Farm in Moulton where Sol Haven, which hosts wellbeing projects, particularly for people who have experienced hardship, has been based for nearly a decade.

Sol Haven is co-founded by Sammuel Yisrael and Natasha Caton and provides sessions in rural skills, growing food, eco-therapy, meditation, nature-based arts and crafts, and cooking, which is led by Natasha, who is a Michelin-trained vegan chef.

Natasha experienced various addictions and homelessness at a young age, and partnered with Samuel, a long-time community volunteer with people who are disabled, have learning disabilities or are living homeless, to create a project that could help people grow and recover from adversity by connecting meaningfully with natural surroundings.

As well as being officially recognised by the then prime minister Boris Johnson, Sol Haven has collected a raft of awards for its work in supporting vulnerable people, including the Lush Spring Prize for social and environmental regeneration.

However, with plans for the new facility seemingly moving forwards, co-owner Natasha Caton said traffic and fans travelling to matches would disrupt the calm the farm provided and also potentially have a major impact on local residents.

“This came pretty much out of the blue to us. In fact, the first we knew about it was when someone mentioned it on Facebook,” explains Natasha.

“There will undoubtedly be an impact on the way we run things here as we are proudly seen as an oasis of calm, peace and tranquility for our users, many of whom are very vulnerable and have been signposted to us from local stakeholders from within the care sector.

“Also, this is far from an issue that is just going to potentially impact Sol Haven. There are environmental impacts in terms of flora, fauna and biodiversity and also the impact of noise and traffic. There appear to be plans for parking on the new site but it won’t take much of a leap to find the little roads around the area are soon full of cars.

“Right now we are processing what this all means whilst trying to focus on supporting our users but finding that balance is a battle all of its own.”

Co-owner Sammuel Yisrael adds: “These are worrying times as previous works have caused issues already with the building of a housing estate built on the field behind. It appears that a lot of waste from there was dumped on a piece of land that was earmarked for community use.

“This has caused flooding on to the farm fields and into Sol Haven and also made the school playing fields unuseable. This has a massive impact on the children in the neighborhood.

“We are concerned that any additional development could make this sorry situation worse and also promises for keeping community space will not be honoured as seen with this other building development. What is critical right now is a plan that engages with the local community and their needs.”

East Midlands manufacturer delivers first project in tertiary education sector

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East Midlands manufacturer delivers first project in tertiary education sector

Mansfield-based Deanestor has delivered its first project in the higher education sector – providing fitted furniture for the Clarice Pears Building which houses the University of Glasgow’s School of Health and Wellbeing. 

Built by Multiplex and designed by AtkinsRéalis, the £50m facility on the University’s Gilmorehill Campus brings together five academic teams from different locations across Glasgow. This has created a single multi-disciplinary centre for world-class research into improving health and reducing health inequalities.

The building is named after Clarice Pears, the mother of the founders and trustees of the Pears Foundation which donated £5m towards the building’s construction.

Deanestor fitted out 42 rooms across five storeys, manufacturing more than 700 items of fitted furniture and joinery at its factory in Mansfield. These included the main reception desk in the entrance atrium, purpose-designed tables and benching, informal booth seating to encourage social interaction and quiet study, storage solutions, kitchenettes, and worktops.

William Tonkinson, Managing Director of Deanestor, said: “This scheme, uniquely, utilises our experience of delivering fitout contracts for state-of-the-art hospital and laboratory projects and also multi-school campuses that promote a high level of collaborative learning and social integration.

“We are really proud to have contributed to this wonderful building that has created such an exciting global centre of research excellence.”

The choice of natural materials for the interior included extensive use of wood finishes to help promote a sense of naturalness and calm in the building.

Bespoke, full height seating booths in a maple wood finish with brightly coloured seating according to the zone, add to the aesthetic impact and were also manufactured by Deanestor.

The booths were provided in different sizes and configurations and incorporate acoustic treatment with padded upholstery above head height to create a canopy that promotes quiet working in the inclusive study spaces. Each was fitted with power, data and charging facilities.

Other booth-style seating arrangements were designed to encourage collaborative working and study whilst incorporating good acoustic performance with the use of upholstered screens.

The Clarice Pears Building is a prominent feature on a new central university square and accommodates over 8,000sqm of research, engagement and teaching space. It will be used to host workshops and knowledge exchange events, as well as to develop new multi-disciplinary postgraduate courses.

New care home set for Derbyshire town following sale of development site

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New care home set for Derbyshire town following sale of development site
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold a development site with planning permission for an 81-bedroom care home in Clay Cross, Derbyshire. The scheme, delivered by Minton Care Ltd, has been prepared for an 81-bedroom, three-storey care home development with an anticipated GIA of circa 4,568 sqm, equating to 56.3 sqm per resident. The care home has been designed to comprise a number of resident amenities including all en suite bedrooms, a range of lounge and dining spaces, a hair salon, a gym, a library, a cinema and activity room, a café, and landscaped gardens. Following a confidential sales process by Christie & Co, the site has been purchased by LNT Care Developments which has plans to complete the home in 2025. Keeley Sharp, Strategic Land Director at LNT Care Developments, says: “We are delighted to be developing a 66-bed LNT care home in Derbyshire this year. “Once complete in Q2 of 2025, the luxury facility will provide a much-needed choice of quality care for the surrounding communities whilst complementing our existing and emerging pipeline within the region.” Sara Hartill, Associate Director – Healthcare Investment & Development at Christie & Co, says: “After a competitive marketing process, we are delighted to have sold this market-leading site in Clay Cross, Derbyshire, to LNT. “The site benefits from a superb location within the town and will undoubtedly provide excellent care for the local community. We look forward to visiting the finished scheme in due course and working with Minton Care Ltd going forward as they bring further quality care development opportunities to the market.” The development site was sold for an undisclosed price.

Major milestone for new student accommodation scheme in Derby

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Major milestone for new student accommodation scheme in Derby
Members of the development team and key stakeholders came together to celebrate the topping-out of a new student residential scheme in Derby. The scheme, which is being developed by the Derby-based Berry Group, comprises of 44 student studios on the corner of Slack Lane and Uttoxeter Old Road in the city. The topping-out ceremony marks the milestone of reaching the highest point in the construction of this project, which involves the erection of a contemporary three-storey student block with a GDV of circa £5m+. The scheme represents the group’s first new build student accommodation venture in Derby. Clearing of the site commenced in January 2023 and was followed by ground-breaking ceremony in May 2023. Construction work is progressing as planned, with the building expected to be completed by the end of July 2024, ready occupation in September 2024. Commenting on the topping out event on the Slack Lane site, Sam Berry, director of Berry Group, said: “Today’s topping-out ceremony is an immense step towards the completion of our exciting student residential scheme in Derby. “The team have worked extremely hard to ensure this scheme will create contemporary student accommodation which enhances the local residential area.” Director Sarah Clowes added: “Today’s event signifies a major milestone in the Berry Group’s on-going commitment to driving positive change and growth in Derby’s property landscape. We look forward to delivering high-quality accommodation for the city’s students.”

Ashfield businesses offered support to go green

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Ashfield businesses offered support to go green
Help is being offered to Ashfield firms who want to reduce their energy bills and look for greener alternatives to running their business. The Accelerator project aims to encourage local businesses to make the vital steps towards decarbonisation and net zero. It is being funded through Ashfield District Council’s £3.2 million allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber. The project signals a new era of local place-based support for the District and, as well as reducing energy costs, aims to help businesses improve productivity through innovation and digital technology, and develop through new overseas markets and workforce upskilling. Net Zero support under the Accelerator project includes: • 1-2-1 consultancy – developing a comprehensive energy and premises audit which includes a review of a business’s energy and fuel consumption. A site visit will involve an Energy Saving and Improvement Opportunities (ESIO) audit using equipment such as cameras, infrared temperature sensors, energy monitors and temperature data loggers. Information collected will be collated into an energy savings opportunity report. • Training – including a newly-launched and accredited Carbon Literacy course. Delivered as two half-day online sessions, it allows delegates to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to develop responses to lowering their organisation’s carbon footprint, typically by 5-15% per certified participant. John Bennett, Executive Director Place, for ADC said: “It is fantastic we can offer support like this to help businesses go green. Ashfield District Council is committed to achieving net zero by 2030 and we want to do everything we can to encourage companies across the District to play their part too. “Our UK Shared Prosperity Fund is funding a huge range of support, training, and upskilling for residents and businesses in Ashfield. The Ashfield Accelerator just one of these initiatives and I would urge local businesses to get involved and take advantage of this great opportunity.” Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, added: “There are so many reasons why a business should consider more environmentally-sound practices. Consumers and businesses are becomingly increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, and businesses that show they’re attentive to this can differentiate themselves from the competition. “More than that, there are small and often inexpensive changes that can be made to reduce energy consumption and improve bottom line as a result. I would urge any Ashfield business looking for guidance on where to start, to engage with one of the Chamber’s business advisers who will be able to make arrangements for support.”

Local businesswoman in final line up for two national awards

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Local businesswoman in final line up for two national awards
A local businesswoman has reached the national finals of two prestigious awards schemes that recognise the positive impact that small businesses have on the nation’s economy. Rachel Hayward is the founder of Ask the Chameleon and specialises in producing funding and commercial procurement applications and business award submissions for ambitious East Midlands micro, small businesses, and Third sector organisations. Since the business launched in 2015, ATC has secured a total of £117m in contracts, with potentially a further £100 million contract values in the pipeline, as well as numerous high profile awards for clients. She has been named the East Midlands self employed/freelancer of the year in the 2024 awards organised by the Federation of Small Business (FSB) which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Rachel will now attend the national final in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens on May 9 alongside the other regional winners from across the UK. Ask the Chameleon has also reached the national final of The Small Awards which are a nationwide search for the smallest and greatest firms in the UK, across all sectors. The awards are organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions, inspires and accelerates the nation’s 5.5 million small firms and the winners will be announced in London on May 16. Rachel explained: “I am obviously delighted to have won the regional FSB award and being part of an impressive line up of business people for the national award is a huge honour. “Having now been shortlisted for the supply chain champion category of the Small Awards, I hope that May will be a double celebration. “I wanted to enter these awards to highlight the typical characteristics of the self-employed and freelancers who need to be motivated, flexible and resilient to achieve their goals and to showcase that this has been particularly important during and post pandemic when most of us were ineligible for support that other businesses relied on for survival.” Rachel continued that her passion was to support SMEs in the region: “Although SMEs are the lifeblood of the economy, most do not have the capacity to bid for tenders to secure their own growth or do not feel they would be judged able to deliver public sector tenders. “By working in collaboration with my SME clients and providing services such as a monthly tender alert, I am able to unlock opportunities and level the playing field for them so that they can successfully navigate the complex procurement landscape to grow their businesses.”

Strong year as Microlise Group sees revenue growth and increased profitability

Tess Egginton
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Strong year as Microlise Group sees revenue growth and increased profitability
Microlise Group, a provider of transport management software to fleet operators, says it “performed well” in 2023, delivering double digit revenue growth and increased profitability. In audited results for the twelve months ended 31 December 2023, the Nottingham firm saw an increase in total revenue to £71.7m, up from £63.2m in 2022. Microlise said growth in the period “was a result of continued strong demand from Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) customers and increased revenue from direct customers towards the end of the year as an improvement of new vehicle availability in H2 enabled the Company to deliver against its record orderbook.“

Recurring revenue, meanwhile, was up 11% to £45m, ahead of market expectations and supported by the renewal of several major customer contracts and new customer wins.

Moreover, profit before tax grew to £2.5m, up from £1.4m in 2022.

Nadeem Raza, CEO of Microlise, said: “Microlise performed well in FY23, delivering double digit revenue growth, increased profitability and strong cash flows. During the period, we secured the renewal of several major customer contracts and significant new logo wins.

“We are continuing to build a resilient business to deliver sustained, efficient growth having made three key acquisitions that have enabled us to improve and expand our product offering.

“Our focus remains on scaling our business and increasing margins through consistently improving the efficiency of our business. With the supply chain issues in the first half of the year now fully behind us, and with a strong order book and healthy pipeline, we look forward to 2024 with confidence.”

Rolls-Royce gets UK Space Agency backing

Tess Egginton
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Rolls-Royce gets UK Space Agency backing
Rolls-Royce has secured funding from Phase 2 of the UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund (IBF). The funding enables strategic research partnerships within the UK space sector and emerging space nations to work together.
The new £1.18 million award from the Fund backs collaboration to identify and advance the optimum technologies for a fission nuclear system, benefitting both UK and U.S. space nuclear development programmes for a range of space power missions. Rolls-Royce is collaborating with U.S. firm BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC (BWXT) to deliver this phase of development, which has been cemented in a Teaming Agreement between the two companies. The agreement facilitates business collaboration and joint developments of new and novel nuclear applications in the space domain, which utilise the core nuclear design and manufacturing strengths of each party. This agreement further strengthens UK and U.S. collaboration on first-of-a-kind space technology innovation, as detailed under the Atlantic Declaration commitment. In an announcement made by UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak and U.S. President, Joe Biden on 8th June 2023, both countries pledged to study “opportunities for co-operation on space nuclear power and propulsion.” BWXT brings extensive experience in nuclear capability in the U.S. having manufactured nuclear components for over 70 years, complementing Rolls-Royce’s comparable experience in the UK. This synergy has built a strong strategic partnership, rooted in the successful delivery of nuclear projects for their respective countries over many decades.

Steve Carlier, President for Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd, said: “We are delighted to win the award for the second phase of the International Bilateral Fund and to be continuing our collaboration with the UK Space Agency and our international project partner BWXT.

“The Teaming Agreement between Rolls-Royce and BWXT brings together over 130 years of safe and secure nuclear delivery on both sides of the Atlantic. “This new agreement builds on our complimentary core competencies and market knowledge from our respective countries. This enables us to build upon our existing relationship and explore potential strategic relationships and business arrangements to further develop nuclear technologies and products for Space.”

Joe Miller, president of BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC, said: “BWXT and Rolls-Royce share a commitment to creating and delivering nuclear energy systems to explore space, support global security imperatives and generate clean energy.

“Today’s announcement, and our teaming agreement more broadly, allows our companies to use our complementary areas of expertise for this award and new opportunities to come.”
All space missions depend on a power source to support systems for communications, life-support and science experiments. Nuclear power has the potential to dramatically increase the duration of future space missions and their scientific value. Nuclear power, effectively utilised in space, will deliver a step change in mission capability across an extensive platform of applications. Space micro-reactors are a solution to meet these requirements in a sustainable and resilient way, and this latest award from the UK Space Agency ensures the continued development of this technology.

Professor Anu Ojha, Director of Championing Space at the UK Space Agency, said: “Our International Bilateral Fund bolsters international collaboration that harnesses the UK’s national expertise, supports new space capabilities and catalyses investment. This exciting research by Rolls-Royce to develop space nuclear power is an opportunity to showcase the UK as a spacefaring nation.

“Innovative technologies such as this one could pave the way for continuous human presence on the Moon, whilst enhancing the wider UK space sector, creating jobs and generating further investment.”
This latest tranche of investment follows £2.9 million of funding awarded to Rolls-Royce from the UK Space Agency under the Lunar Surface Nuclear Power Contract and Phase 1 of the IBF project in 2023, which delivered an initial demonstration of a UK lunar modular nuclear reactor.

Chesterfield pharmacy moves to new HQ and invests in innovative equipment

Stuart Pearcey
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Chesterfield pharmacy moves to new HQ and invests in innovative equipment
Chesterfield-based Peak Pharmacy has invested in new, innovative equipment to speed up its processes, along with improving accuracy and capacity. The organisation recently moved to a new headquarters at the Horizon 29 development near Chesterfield and is now investing in an Austrian system provided by Knapp to improve the way it dispenses medications for customers. Managing Director, Joe Cattee explained: “Knapp partners with a number of organisations within the country already and supports with the ability to pick products by using fully automated and manual picking zones for speed and convenience. “The attraction to work with this provider was that they have designed a system that enables us to dispense patients’ medication at our site. This takes this workload out of community pharmacy and creates capacity within our pharmacy network for our teams to support patients in different ways. “The machine is significantly more accurate than human dispensing, and the speed in which we can dispense medication means that we can do approximately half of all the prescriptions we do on a monthly basis through our Hub. Clearly, there will be some requirements to support and educate both our pharmacy teams and patients, but it enables us to revolutionise what we do under extremely challenging conditions.” The new technology is helping Peak Pharmacy to revolutionise how it operates, enabling the business to continue thriving during a challenging economic climate. Joe Cattee added: “Community pharmacy is vastly underfunded across England. It’s being reported that 8 pharmacies a week are closing in the current climate with funding decreases between 2015 & 2019, and a flat fee funding contract introduced from 2019 – 2024. This obviously has a detrimental effect on the million visits to community pharmacy in England every day. “By investing in automation at our Hub, we reduce the stress and pressure on our pharmacy teams, ensuring a better level of patient care is provided. The launch of the ‘Pharmacy First’ scheme on 31st January 2024, enabling community pharmacy to treat seven common health conditions without visiting a GP, shows the direction of travel that community pharmacy needs to undertake. “By removing dispensing volume across our estate, and assembling centrally, we can ensure a more accurate and timely service of medication provision, whilst also having capacity to engage in more NHS and private services to support patient wellbeing. In short, if we don’t adapt then we will not remain a viable business. Community pharmacy plays a huge part in supporting the country, but the financial reimbursement for what we do means that the costs of running our business now outweigh the revenue we receive for the services we provide.”
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