PAB Languages Centre secures place on prestigious framework

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PAB Languages Centre secures place on prestigious framework

PAB Languages Centre has been named as a supplier on the KCS Procurement Services Language Services Framework Y23031 for the next four years.

Operating nationally and regionally, the East Midlands business will provide an array of services, including translations, transcriptions, ancillary services, telephone and video interpreting, and face-to-face interpreting with a focus on inclusivity through BSL interpreting.

The award of Framework Number Y23004 by KCS Procurement Services marks a pivotal step for PAB in expanding its footprint in public sector language services.

Tarryn Kerr, Director of KCS Procurement Services, said: “We are delighted to have launched our new Language Services framework, which has been created to help support public sector organisations across the UK. “Our framework experts have undertaken a stringent tender process to award to the successful suppliers and we are pleased that PAB Languages Centre is one of our new partners. We look forward to creating a long-lasting relationship with PAB Languages Centre and working collaboratively to support the needs of the UK public sector.”

“Being part of this prestigious framework is not just a great achievement; it’s a responsibility that we take very seriously,” said Iwona Lebiedowicz, Managing Director of PAB Languages Centre Ltd.

“We understand the critical role language services play in a diverse and multicultural society. Being appointed onto the framework reflects our team’s dedication to delivering top-tier language services and demonstrates PAB’s excellence in service quality, efficiency, and reliability.”

This framework is designed to streamline the procurement process for public sector entities, offering a direct award capability that ensures a quick and compliant route to acquiring language services.

New Chief Executive for Futures Housing Group

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New Chief Executive for Futures Housing Group
Futures Housing Group has appointed Tim Mulvenna as its new Chief Executive Officer, taking up the post later this year. Tim will succeed Lindsey Williams who became the first CEO of Amber Valley Housing in 2003 and has remained with the organisation through its merger with Daventry District Housing to create Futures in 2007. Lindsey announced her intention to step down in September 2023. Tim has nearly 20 years’ experience in housing and joins from The Barnet Group where he is Chief Executive. The Group is responsible for all aspects of homelessness and housing in the borough. It includes the ALMO (arms length management organisation) which manages Barnet Council’s housing stock, a care and a support company, a registered provider, and a sales and lettings agent. The organisation has delivered the first new build council housing in the area for nearly 50 years and set up its own registered provider of social housing which has developed and acquired over 800 new homes. Previously Tim was Group Director, Customer Services at L&Q, London’s largest housing association where, amongst other things, he was responsible for rolling out the direct maintenance service as well as the stock investment programme. Commenting on his appointment, Tim said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Futures. The organisation has a brilliant track record and the focus on customers is clear. “The challenges for housing associations and our residents have never been greater and I look forward to working with the team to continue to improve services and deliver more much needed affordable homes.” Chairman of Futures’ Group Board, Mike Stevenson, who has led the search for Lindsey’s successor added: “We’re immensely proud of our people, our culture and most of all the great homes and services we offer our customers. “Lindsey has played a central part in making the organisation the great success it is today and so finding the right person to follow in her footsteps was really vital. So, following a thorough recruitment process, we’re really pleased to have appointed Tim as our new Chief Executive and look forward to welcoming him onboard. “This is an ideal time for Tim to join the Futures family. We have just launched our new corporate plan setting out our ambitions for the next three years and recently retained our G1/V1 ratings from the regulator following our latest in-depth assessment. “So with Tim picking up the reins we will be fantastically well equipped to deliver our vision of providing quality homes and services for better futures across the East Midlands.”

Financial services activity sees strong rebound in first quarter

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Financial services activity sees strong rebound in first quarter
Financial services business volumes grew at a fast pace in the first quarter of 2024 after having fallen in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to the latest CBI Financial Services Survey. Firms expect volumes to increase at an even quicker rate over the next three months. The quarterly survey, conducted between 1 and 19 March, also showed that FS firms’ optimism increased quickly over the quarter. Headcount in the sector grew at a fast pace for a fourth consecutive quarter, and firms anticipate that headcount growth will accelerate further in the next three months. Key findings:   
  • Business volumes grew rapidly in the quarter to March (+36%) after having fallen last quarter (-23% in December). Firms expect volumes to increase at an even quicker rate in the next three months (+50%).
  • Optimism increased at a quick rate in the quarter to March (weighted balance of +29% from -3% in December).
  • Average spreads declined in the quarter to March (-19% from -4% in December) but are expected to increase next quarter (+9%).
  • The value of non-performing loans increased in the quarter to March (+11% from +3% in December) but is expected to fall next quarter (-7%).
  • Profitability grew at a quick rate in the quarter to March (+37% from -3% in December). FS firms expect profitability to increase at a similarly fast pace next quarter (+38%).
  • Headcount grew at a fast pace in the quarter to March (+40% from +46% in December). Firms expect headcount growth to accelerate slightly next quarter (+45%).
  • Firms expect to increase investment in IT in the next 12 months (compared to the last 12). Capital expenditure on land & buildings is set to be unchanged, while firms expect to cut back on investment in vehicles, plant & machinery.
  • Uncertainty about demand was the most commonly cited factor likely to limit investment in the next 12 months (53% from 53% in December).
Louise Hellem, CBI Chief Economist, said: “It’s encouraging to see that the financial services sector had a strong start to the year after a weak final quarter in 2023. Firms expect this positive momentum in activity and hiring to continue going forward, although investment intentions are more mixed. “As a key enabling sector to the rest of the economy, the uptick in activity and hiring will be welcome news. But with global capital markets up for grabs in the race for net zero, we need to send a signal to investors that the UK is open for business, by reinforcing the UK’s leadership in sustainable finance, and offering a world-leading regulatory framework. “So, the CBI is calling for the delivery of a Net Zero Investment plan to ensure public spending is targeted to those areas where there are market failures and to further leverage private sector investment.”

Community cash up for grabs from housebuilder’s £10,000 fund

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Community cash up for grabs from housebuilder’s £10,000 fund

Charities and community groups across the East Midlands will benefit from £10,000 of housebuilder funding this year.

Miller Homes has launched its annual Community Fund initiative, which enables local charities, businesses and sports clubs to apply directly to the housing developer for up to £2,000 per organisation as part of the overall pot for 2024.

Each of the housebuilder’s 10 trading regions will have access to £10,000 as part of the Community Fund, including the developer’s Derbyshire-based East Midlands region.

Applicants can request a specific donation amount from Miller Homes, ranging from £250 to £2,000, and must provide their proposals for how the money will be spent as part of their application.

The housebuilder supported several groups as part of its Community Fund programme in 2023, including foodbanks, schools, football and cricket clubs, homelessness charities and autism support groups.

Entries for the first funding round of 2024 can be submitted until Wednesday, April 24, when applications will close for Miller Homes to review the submissions ahead of making their choices of which groups will benefit.

Alastair Parsons, area sales director for Miller Homes East Midlands, said: “As a responsible housebuilder, we appreciate how important giving back to the communities where we’re delivering new homes really is, and our Community Fund enables us to achieve this.

“Twice annually, we open our doors to local charities, sports clubs, small businesses and those who best represent their communities to apply for a donation from Miller Homes to help them achieve their next goals.

“We are really proud to be able to fund local community projects and we always marvel at the stories we hear in response when we see how our money has been used to create positive momentum for those involved.

“So, with applications open again for the first round of funding in 2024, I hope we will receive some inspiring entries once again, to allow Miller Homes to contribute towards our communities as part of our long-term aim to create a better place for people to prosper.”

Renewable energy company expands to Bradmore Business Park

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Renewable energy company expands to Bradmore Business Park
Renewable energy company, GeoGreen Power Ltd has let Unit A Bradmore Business Park in Bunny. The property comprises a detached two storey office building situated within a Parkland Campus to the south of Nottingham. Bradmore Business Park comprises three sister buildings that were developed in 2011, all consisting of modern detached office space. FHP let Unit A Bradmore Business Park, which it says generated a strong level of enquiries with the majority of interest leaning more towards a floor-by-floor option of circa 3,000 sq ft, which seems to evidentially be in strong demand for ‘out-of-town’ business park floor space requirements. Ideally, FHP wanted one occupier to take the whole space available to make it more of an attractive option for its client, although they were open to either. “We were delighted when GeoGreen Power Ltd came along and expressed their interest in the whole property,” FHP noted. “After viewing the suite only once, they were already set that this was the office for them as the characteristics of the building appealed to them and their type of occupation. Amy Howard, surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, added: “It was a great result in the end for both our client and GeoGreen Power. The demand for ‘out-of-town’ office space especially in this size bracket is not as high as it once was, so it was a great result to secure a deal so quickly and complete on the legals within four weeks of being under offer. “This property is an example that if a landlord maintains their property well and offers high quality modern office space then the demand is still there and prospective tenants are keen to move. “GeoGreen Power Ltd had only recently started their office search but had not yet come across one that suited their needs and ultimately fell in love with Bradmore Business Park on their first viewing and I wish them all the best on continuing their journey. “We are witnessing demand increasing for offices situated within business parks, with accessibility being a key requirement alongside ample car parking making it attractive for employees and accessible. I am excited to see what this year brings with the office market as in recent months we have seen a rise in take up.”

Commercial property agents find own new premises

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Commercial property agents find own new premises
A commercial property agent has relocated to a brand-new office just a free kick away from the site of one of the firm’s most memorable deals.

Salloway Property Consultants, which specialises in the sale, letting and management of commercial and industrial property together with providing strategic advice on development land, has purchased premises in Royal Scot Road, on Pride Park.

Founded by lifelong Derby County fan Stephen Salloway, the company was responsible for the sale of the Baseball Ground in the 1990s, paving the way for the creation of Pride Park Stadium itself, and the 100,000 sq ft Soccer Dome which it pre-let to JJB Sports.

The new office is designed to allow Salloway to grow the property management side of the business and expand its land development division with both areas becoming increasingly popular with clients.

Staff have worked together to create a contemporary, user-friendly office space, specifically designed to enhance the teamworking ethos which has been the cornerstone of the firm’s success. Managing Director Stephen said: “We have been based on Pride Park since 2005 when we were the very first commercial property agent to move here. But of course, our association with Pride Park goes back in further than that with our links to the stadium and soccer dome.

“With such strong links to the area, it seems very fitting that the future of our company is being shaped so close to the site of a deal that was really significant in our history.

“Since then, Pride Park has gone from strength to strength and is now seen as one of the region’s most successful business parks with a variety business, leisure and residential users sharing the same address in a fully integrated manner. Many of the property enquiries we receive have already determined that Pride Park is their favoured location.

“Obviously Covid was a shock to the market giving rise to the work-from-home and hybrid-working concepts, but we can sense the resurgence – people want the experience of going out to work. We feel that with our own staff too which is why we have invested in a new office.

“It was certainly all hands to the pump at times but that turned the move into a team-building exercise, which I dare say was quite fun at times. There is little doubt that the move has refreshed and energised us all which is timely as the market, like the economy, starts to re-emerge from the doldrums of high interest rates and we are seeing a marked increase in demand for our services.”

Ashby property consultancy re-elects managing partner for third term after overseeing growth to record size

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Ashby property consultancy re-elects managing partner for third term after overseeing growth to record size
A property consultancy has re-elected its managing partner for a third term after he oversaw its growth to a record size. Andrew Bridge was unanimously voted to stay on as managing partner at Fisher German by his fellow partners until at least April 2028, having first been elected in 2019. His re-election follows Fisher German’s merger with the former Matthews & Goodman in 2022, and the opening of a major new office in Birmingham in late 2023, which has made Fisher German a firm of 800 employees. Andrew is now looking to continue this success by increasing Fisher German’s influence in major cities and ensuring clients receive a joined-up approach from the firm’s many areas of expertise. He said: “It’s a huge honour that Fisher German’s many partners saw fit to elect me again for a third term. It’s a real vote of confidence in the direction the firm is going in. “As a firm, we not only want to help our clients with one issue but to enable them to maximise the value they get from us by assisting them in all sorts of property matters. “We now have an incredible breadth of expert knowledge across our company, from investment; lease advisory, and valuations, through to planning; sustainable energy; infrastructure consultancy; and more. “Our clients are already reaping the benefits of this cross-section of expertise, and I am confident we can continue to grow our influence and win more instructions as I enter into my third term as managing partner.” Andrew is also focusing on Fisher German leading by example when it comes to factors such as ESG and career progression. “Many of our clients are increasingly focused on sustainability and ensuring their supply chain meets that standard – which of course includes Fisher German,” he added. “While achieving monetary value for our clients is obviously important, we need to match our clients’ values by doing all we can to work sustainably too – whether through having greener office space, partnering with charities, encouraging our colleagues to stay physically and mentally healthy, and enabling them to progress their careers as far as they wish to. “I’m looking forward to not only leading Fisher German’s growth as a company over the next few years but to growing those values beyond the bottom line too.”

Magpies to build new nest for fans

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Magpies to build new nest for fans
Notts County’s plans for a new Fan Zone called ‘The Nest’ have been granted conditional permission. The proposals relate a commercial unit on Iremonger Road in Nottingham, near the Meadow Lane ground, which will be used as a facility to meet before and after matches, selling food and drink from a bar and street food traders, and including a giant television screen showing football matches. It will also be utilised as a multi-purpose events space for leisure, entertainment and community use. Notts County said the site will “improve the overall community experience” on match days and several non-match days throughout the year. The previous tenant was East Midlands Fabrications Ltd, who produced general steel fabrications and architectural metalwork. The site offers 12,000 sq ft of indoor space complemented by a large outdoor area. Notts County want to develop a space like that seen at Box Park in Wembley, the Rapidz Fan Zone at Burnley FC, and City Square at Manchester City FC.

Derelict Nottingham building given green light for student accommodation transformation

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Derelict Nottingham building given green light for student accommodation transformation
Plans to transform the Antibo building in Nottingham into student accommodation have been granted conditional permission. The proposals for 54-60 Lower Parliament Street involve the conversion, extensive restoration and upward extension of the former commercial premises into student residence. The building dates back to the 1940’s and was originally constructed as a department store. It was most recently home to the Chez Coor restaurant on the ground floor, with accommodation on the upper floors. The site has since been derelict and found to be associated with anti-social behaviour and illegal activity. Kexgill Ltd is behind the new scheme, which will provide 49 student bedrooms with associated amenity spaces as well as commercial and office space.

Why financial planning is pivotal in today’s economy: by Karen Sheldon, Director of Sheldon Flanders Financial Services Ltd

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Why financial planning is pivotal in today’s economy: by Karen Sheldon, Director of Sheldon Flanders Financial Services Ltd
Karen Sheldon, Director of Sheldon Flanders Financial Services Ltd, the financial advisory firm based in Derby, speaks on why financial planning is pivotal in today’s economy. I love the following sayings…’Fail to plan, plan to fail!’ ‘If you don’t know where you are going how can you ever get there?’ Whilst not specifically related to financial planning, this is so true of financial planning and in my view is essential, especially in today’s society. Most life journeys do not continue in a straight line. There are usually twists and turns and bumps along the way and without financial planning you could face difficult times. Financial planning ensures you can plan your journey and if life events get in the way you can adapt. Financial planning is even more necessary in today’s world. I know every decade has had its challenges, and I’m aware that there hasn’t been such a thing as a “job for life” in a very long time. However, I don’t think I have ever experienced what feels like a constant barrage of challenges and issues affecting markets, issues affecting employment and uncertainty in the economy on such a regular basis, which has in my opinion exacerbated the need for strategic financial planning. I don’t see these challenges ending any time soon. The world is changing rapidly, new markets are opening up, the employment arena looks vastly different and will only keep changing, and the economy is uncertain. The one thing I absolutely stress though, is whilst we do not know what is ahead of us, we do know what planning tools are available today, and whilst these may change in the future, the benefits of planning today will never change. When I decided to set up my firm in 2008 I set out to make an impact and give back to the community as well as work around my children and I haven’t looked back since. At Sheldon Flanders Financial Services Ltd, we specialise in pensions and wealth management and I in particular deal with high net worths for this and with group pensions for companies. As a firm we are on a mission to make sure financial planning is available to all, irrespective of wealth, in a sustainable way. I am looking to grow our team to include advisers that are available to offer advice to those who would at times feel financial advice isn’t available to them. I am also looking to develop an application that will be available to all to help as well in those vital decisions, effectively ensuring we can provide financial planning solutions for all who require it.

Go-ahead given to Rolls-Royce Raynesway site expansion

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Go-ahead given to Rolls-Royce Raynesway site expansion
The green light has been given to Rolls-Royce’s plans to significantly expand its Submarines site in Derby to meet the growth in demand from the Royal Navy, and as a result of last year’s AUKUS announcement. In March 2023 it was confirmed that Rolls-Royce Submarines would provide all the nuclear reactor plants that will power new attack submarines as part of the tri-lateral agreement between Australia, the UK and US. This increase in demand will see new manufacturing and office facilities being built at the Raynesway site, alongside a multi-storey carpark, and will create 1,170 skilled roles across a range of disciplines, including manufacturing and engineering. The proposal includes the demolition of five buildings and the construction of 10. Rolls-Royce Submarines currently employs more than 4,500 people and designs, manufactures and provides in-service support to the pressurised water reactors that power every boat in the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet.

Hire a drone operator in the East Midlands

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Hire a drone operator in the East Midlands
Drone videos are all the rage right now and it might be time to invest in a drone video to help captivate potential customers and promote your business online. Glowfrog provide CAA registered and fully insured drone pilots to capture footage for businesses throughout the Midlands and can even provide drone filming free of charge when included within a wider scope video production project, or be hired for entirely drone-based projects. Here is a sample of some of the footage they have captured in Derby and Nottingham:    If this is an option you would like to explore, be sure to visit the link below for more information. ->  www.glowfrogvideo.com/drone-video-production 

Former Government business champion takes helm at Loughborough Town Deal

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Former Government business champion takes helm at Loughborough Town Deal
A former Government business champion has been appointed as chair of the Loughborough Town Deal Board. Martin Traynor OBE is a former consultant and Group Chief Executive of the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce and spent many years in the hospitality sector. More recently Martin has been a Small Business Crown Representative for the Cabinet office, helping to improve relations between Government and businesses. He now chairs the Town Deal board responsible for working with 11 projects which are delivering over £40 million of investment into the area, boosting skills, regenerating the town and supporting the visitor economy. Martin has been on the board since its inception and was appointed as chair at the March meeting, replacing Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL. Martin said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the chair of Loughborough Town Deal Board. “The Town Deal has already delivered almost £15 million of investment into the area and several projects have been completed including the creation of the Careers and Enterprise Hub, improvements to the canal side, a significant town centre regeneration scheme and support for the visitor economy. “There is much more on the way, and I am determined to support the remaining Town Deal projects through to their completion. They will leave a significant legacy for Loughborough.” Local businessman Charles Bentley has also joined the Town Deal board. Charles is managing director of Loughborough-based Charles Bentley which provides a wide range of products for the home and garden. The company was founded in 1860. Charles said: “I am extremely pleased to join the board and look forward to working with fellow board members and officers to help drive forward this exciting investment for the town.” Loughborough Town Deal secured £16.9 million from the Government’s Towns Fund and is backing 11 projects in total. Other Town Deal projects already completed include the creation of SportPark Pavilion 4 at Loughborough University which is part of the Healthy and Innovative Loughborough project. Several elements of the Living Loughborough project are also up and running including the expansion of free wi-fi in the town centre, an augmented reality heritage trail and free business support for local businesses. More elements of this scheme are being developed. Other projects include work to save the last major Bell Foundry in Britain – John Taylor & Co; the Lanes and Links scheme which will better link the town centre and Queen’s Park and see the creation of a place to mark the impact of Covid on the community; a Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College; the creation of the Generator, a creative arts and culture hub; support for Great Central Railway; and support for a flood scheme for Loughborough’s Wood Brook. The Town Deal Board involves representatives from Charnwood Borough Council, Loughborough University, Loughborough College, Love Loughborough, Leicestershire County Council, the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, Charnwood Together Economy and Skills Group, local businesses and Loughborough MP Jane Hunt.

Plans for Derby theatres to move forward

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Plans for Derby theatres to move forward
Plans to restore Derby’s Guildhall Theatre and enhance Derby Theatre are set to move forward this week, as part of a major investment putting culture at the heart of the city. Derby City Council’s Cabinet will agree terms for use of £20 million Government Levelling Up Funding allocated to Derby. The funding will be split evenly between the Guildhall Theatre and Derby Theatre. Combined the two projects will generate an additional £2.7m per year for the local economy. A partnership agreement has been drawn up by the two organisations to agree details of how the funding will be spent, with the Council’s Cabinet set to agree the terms of the agreement this week. The £10m allocated to the Guildhall Theatre will contribute to the restoration of the Grade II listed building to its former glory and once again welcome audiences. Restoration plans for the Guildhall Theatre will include a new front of house experience with enhanced foyer as well as a new ground floor cafe and box office opening onto the Market Place. The auditorium will also be remodelled to increase the seating capacity to around 280. Back of house facilities will also be renovated to make the venue more accessible, other improvements include refurbished dressing rooms and the installation of a new service lift.  A new courtyard will also be included in the works, adjacent to Derby’s historic Market Hall, which is due to re-open in the spring of 2025 following major renovations. Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Deputy Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said: “By bringing the Guildhall Theatre back into use, we can not only restore one of our historic buildings but create more space for community-led arts groups to perform right in Derby’s cultural heart. “We’re on a mission to put culture at the heart of our city, bringing pride to our high streets, and attracting further investment into the city. Change is coming and what is planned for Derby’s Market Place is truly exciting.” Derby Theatre’s £10 million allocation will enable the Theatre and the University of Derby to complete phase one of its New Horizons project, delivering a state-of-the-art new accessible studio theatre and Learning and Research Hub. The Learning and Research Hub will allow the Theatre and University to develop further the undergraduate and postgraduate offer onsite in a professional theatre continuing to make the most of and enhance the unique connection between students, professional artists, participants and audiences. Sarah Brigham, Artistic Director and CEO, Derby Theatre, said: “These are exciting times for Derby Theatre as we continue to trailblaze new ways of training the next generation of professionals and creating high quality theatre for our communities. We are known for working directly with people from all backgrounds to release their creativity and this first phase of expansion on our current site will allow us to do even more of that. “I’m excited that as we approach our 50th birthday we are adding a new auditorium to the site and our longer term plans will see a refreshed front of house and backstage facilities.” The Guildhall restoration works are currently planned to begin on site in summer 2025 and be completed in late 2027. The Guildhall already needed £10m of repairs to prevent the building falling into disrepair. In total the extensive restoration is expected to cost £24.55 million, which will be funded by a combination of the £10 million from the Levelling Up Funding and £14.55 million from the Council’s capital budget. Work will also be carried out at 30 and 31 Market Place, which adjoin the Guildhall, allowing them to be brought back into use and contribute to the city.

Construction starts on Phase Two of Leicestershire business park

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Construction starts on Phase Two of Leicestershire business park

Construction has begun on Phase Two of Beauchamp Business Park, a new commercial development in Kibworth, Leicestershire. Due to the strength of demand for units at the site, construction of Phase Two has started earlier than originally planned.

Beauchamp Business Park is being brought forward by Clowes Developments and its team including IMA Architects, TanRo, Millward Consulting Engineers, Gateley’s Legal and Postins Project Services. Philips Sutton and TDBRE have been instructed as agents on the scheme.

Planning permission for Phase Two was granted by Harborough District Council in December 2023. The second phase will see the creation of two additional terraces and a self-contained detached unit to be used for B1 and B2 use class. Completion is expected in late 2024.

When complete, Beauchamp Business Park will feature a series of freehold and leasehold industrial units ranging from 1,270 sq ft to 10,085 sq ft.

Construction of the first phase of the development began in September 2023. Due to the demand for units from local business owners and investors, the construction of Phase Two has started earlier than originally planned. 80% of the units on Phase One were sold or under offer within two months of being made available for enquiries, and there is similar interest in Phase Two, with Unit E already under offer.

Clowes Developments have retained IMA Architects who are providing all architectural services and acting as Principal Designer on the scheme.

Ben Hall, director at IMA Architects, says: “The popularity of the site demonstrates the need for quality, well located industrial space in the local area. Phase Two was originally planned to begin in the summer, but due to the demand it was decided that the construction teams could remain on site and push on with the next phase.

“My colleagues and I are proud to be working with Clowes Developments to deliver another site that will bring economic growth and employment opportunities to Leicestershire.”

Kevin Webster, associate director at Clowes Developments, adds: “Groundworks have begun on the second phase, and we are hopeful that the whole site will be finished ahead of schedule. I am already looking forward to the occupiers moving into the units and seeing Beauchamp Business Park really come to life.”

Letting sees new use for former restaurant

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Letting sees new use for former restaurant
A 2,105 sq ft former restaurant in Burton has been let to T J Parry Independent Funeral Directors. The premises have been taken ‘back to the bricks’ and completely re-furbished and re-decorated to create a purpose-built Funeral Home, which is prominently located on the prestigious Anson Court Development at 188/189 Horninglow St. T J Parry & Family Funeral Directors Ltd was conceived by founder Timothy Parry and opened in Station St, Burton in 2018. Tim grew up in Burton upon Trent and following family bereavement to himself, started working in the funeral industry at Bretby Crematorium as a 14-year-old. He continued working his way ‘up the ladder’ at two Funeral Directors and continued to gain valuable experience working alongside many others during his employment. After achieving industry recognised qualifications, Tim decided to set up his own company to provide a trusted, independent service that truly cares for the local communities. Tim said: “We have always provided the highest levels of professionalism, care, dignity, and respect to our clients which we have become well known for and this has resulted in us needing to relocate to larger premises. “We chose the new location as it offers a beautiful and prominent setting for our business. The building is full of character and provides a real charm inside and out now, and following the refurbishment works carried out, offers the most perfect of Funeral Homes. Our new premises provide more quality space for our families and further deceased care facilities. “This move has enabled us to create a calm and comfortable space for grieving families, whilst continuing to provide the highest standards of care for our clients. The additional space also allows for more staff to join our family, as part of our natural growth.” Salloway commercial agency surveyor, Simon Walker said: “I am absolutely delighted to have helped Tim with his relocation to these larger premises, having been initially involved with finding him a suitable commercial property and concluding the letting when he started his own business over 5 years ago. “His relocation to the award-winning Anson Court Development on Horninglow St, Burton provides much needed expansion space for his business, and he has transformed the premises completely to provide a truly high quality feel Funeral Home.”

Information management specialists secure Markham Vale warehouse

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Information management specialists secure Markham Vale warehouse
Devonshire Property Group, part of the portfolio of Devonshire Group businesses, has let its 102,515 sq ft Markham Vale warehouse following the agreement of a new letting to digital and information management specialists, Restore Records Management. Restore Records Management has agreed to take the unit on a long-term lease. The move is part of a consolidation of properties, as it looks to move into newer, more efficient buildings. Restore expects to be operational at the new site later this Spring. Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at Devonshire Property Group, said: “Letting our property at Markham Vale is not only a really positive milestone for the scheme, but a testament to the site’s proposition and the quality of space on offer. “Alongside Derbyshire County Council and HBD, we’re fully committed to ensuring that the site continues to generate value and quality job opportunities for the surrounding communities. Bringing another strong business in Restore Records Management to the site is part of our work to fulfil that promise.” Nigel Dews, Managing Director at Restore Records Management, said: “The entire facility, will be able to accommodate a staggering 1.4 million boxes, making it one of the biggest sites in our portfolio. We look forward to taking management of the site in the forthcoming weeks.” The agents representing The Devonshire Group were Rebecca Schofield at Knight Frank and Stuart Waite, of CPP. Restore were represented by Cameron Frazer of Berrys.

Beat The Streets raises £81k to save vital frontline services for rough sleepers

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Beat The Streets raises £81k to save vital frontline services for rough sleepers

Beat The Streets has announced the total raised from this year’s festival is a huge £81,600, thanks to the thousands of people, artists and those behind the scenes coming together for a day of live music in January.

All the money raised by DHP Family’s festival will go to support the vital work carried out by the Nottingham based charity Framework to help the growing number of rough sleepers in the city.

A cheque for the 2024 total was handed over by DHP Family MD George Akins to Framework’s Deputy Chief Executive Claire McGonigle this week. In return, the charity presented DHP Family with a commemorative platinum disc in recognition of the fundraising achievement and the company’s ongoing commitment to raising vital funds each year.

This year, the money from Beat The Streets will secure around a quarter of the jobs in the charity’s Street Outreach team, which were at risk due to cuts in Nottingham City Council funding. The Outreach team take to the streets every morning to engage with the growing numbers of rough sleepers, and are at the forefront of the charity’s work aimed at ending homelessness.

In the year to December 2023 the Nottingham Street Outreach team identified and worked with 869 known people sleeping rough in Nottingham, a 19 percent year-on-year increase. Having gained the confidence of someone sleeping rough, team members help the rough sleeper to find accommodation, and work to identify their support needs and employment options.

Working with this highly transient population of rough sleepers, the team also engaged with roughly 800 additional individuals who could not be definitively identified.

Framework’s Chief Executive Andrew Redfern said: “Each year the money raised at Beat the Streets plays a vital part in maintaining support for rough sleepers in Nottingham and we continue to be very grateful for this outstandingly generous assistance.

“In 2023 the funds raised enabled the construction of purpose-built accommodation for rough sleepers and we look forward to celebrating the opening of these new flats in a few weeks.

“The level of rough sleeping continues to rise relentlessly. Funds raised at the 2024 festival back in January will help us maintain the outreach team who work with people on the streets of Nottingham every day of the year. Three posts are at risk due to cuts in City Council funding and Beat the Streets funding will cover a large part of the cost.”

The live music company’s charitable music festival Beat The Streets was launched in 2018 and has now raised a grand total of £490,600 for Framework as well as shining a spotlight on the homelessness crisis. The charity works to turn around the lives of people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness across the East Midlands, providing housing, health, employment support, and care services to people with a diverse range of needs.

Every venue was packed out on Sunday 28 January to enjoy a full day of live music showcasing more than 50 homegrown artists along with special guest Beans on Toast. The talent on display blew away audiences at Rock City, Rescue Rooms, Bodega and Rough Trade with all proceeds from tickets, bar and merch going directly to Framework.

George Akins, MD, DHP Family, said: “Everyone at DHP is very proud of the funds raised from this year’s Beat The Streets. After working hard to deliver a wonderful day of live music, it’s always great to see our total and hand it over to Framework.

“The funds raised each year at our event make a tangible difference to the lives of homeless people in the area, and thanks to everyone who attended, performed at, and worked on our 2024 event, we’ve been able to make another significant contribution to the hard work that Framework do, at a particularly vital time.”

The funds raised by Beat The Streets in previous years have gone towards keeping Sneinton Hermitage shelter open all year round; accommodating more than 60 high risk service users; employing two full time mental health workers and helping to open Mechanics House, which provides accommodation and resettlement support.

Beat The Streets is delivered by DHP Family in collaboration with local organisations and music groups including I’m Not from London; Farmyard Records; Hockley Hustle, and Rough Trade.

Retailers record six months of negative sales

Tess Egginton
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Retailers record six months of negative sales
Total in-store and online sales fell -2.2% in March, marking the sixth consecutive month of negative sales results, according to new data from BDO’s High Street Sales Tracker. The last six months marks the longest consecutive period of negative growth outside of the COVID-19 pandemic. BDO’s data, which looks at sales across discretionary spend categories, highlighted that in-store sales were negative for the fourth month in a row (-1.8%) and pulled down by sharp falls in both fashion and homewares sales. Non-store sales were also negative (-2.3%), following three successive months of positive results. Sophie Michael, Head of Retail and Wholesale at BDO, said: “These results continue to paint a bleak picture for retailers. Despite both the Easter bank holiday weekend and Mother’s Day falling in March this year, these results serve as a stark reminder of the pressure the sector is under.” Fashion was the only non-store category to see positive results in March but the growth of 1.5% failed to offset the negative in-store sales, which declined by -6.0%. The homeware sector also performed poorly, falling by -10.9%, the lowest monthly result for this category since May 2022. The lifestyle sector performed slightly better, with sales up +0.9% compared to the same month last year. Sophie continued: “Going into April, retailers will see their costs rise even higher with the uplift in the national minimum wage and increased business rates leaving very little room to spend on investment, promotions or other ways of encouraging consumer spending. “Elsewhere, there are reports that order levels fell in March and are expected to fall further in April, showing no signs of appetite for consumers to increase discretionary spend. Retailers will be fixated on managing their cost base to ride out what continues to be a challenging trading period, with no notable recovery on the horizon just yet.”

Tech firm distributes 1,600 bamboo cups to Derby charities so they can enjoy a brew or two

Tess Egginton
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Tech firm distributes 1,600 bamboo cups to Derby charities so they can enjoy a brew or two

A Derby firm has helped spread the message about saving the planet by handing out 1,600 bamboo-fibre cups to local charities and organisations.  

Family-owned Barron McCann, which provides IT services to customers throughout the UK and Europe, handed out the eco-friendly cups to YMCA Derbyshire, Treetops Hospice, Derby County Community Trust, Derby Women’s Centre and Bridge The Gap C.I.C so that they can enjoy a hot drink and know that they are doing their bit for the planet.  

Barron McCann were gifted the mugs – created by British homeware and gifting company Milly Green – by Hampshire-based Cable Talk, which is part of the Barron McCann group of companies. 

Each mug is made from 100% bamboo and is fully recyclable.  

Lucy Laughton, Barron McCann’s business support and social values co-ordinator, delivered the mugs to the five charitable organisations. She said: “We were lucky to receive this kind donation from our friends at Cable Talk and chose local charities and organisations who we felt were deserving of the mugs.  

“The mugs are made from recycled, reusable resources – even the lid is bamboo, so there is no plastic after taste. 

“We all know the benefits of a cuppa and a chat, and I hope that the charities will be able to enjoy drinking from the Milly Green mugs.” 

Paul Taylor is YMCA Derbyshire’s Community Relationship Co-Ordinator. 

He said: “We are extremely grateful to Barron McCann for this kind donation. We will be able to use the mugs to bring a smile to participants of the various projects we run here at the YMCA.  

“Our Health & Wellbeing team will be able to use the mugs for their sessions and I know that they will be most welcome down at our Wilmorton Community Gardens.” 

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