Local social entrepreneurs can now get a helping hand to turn their ideas into reality from Derby’s first Social Entrepreneurs in Residence.
Keith Jeffrey, former Chief Executive of QUAD, Derby’s centre for arts and film, and Paul Squires, an experienced leadership consultant, have been appointed to provide expert advice, guidance and connections to nurture local businesses that combine profit with purpose.
In collaboration with Derby City Council and local partners, the newly-appointed Social Entrepreneurs in Residence have established a pilot programme – Derby Social Ventures – to provide direct support to the city’s social entrepreneurs.
Social enterprises are businesses that aim to make a positive impact on society or the environment while also making a profit.
While sharing some challenges with traditional businesses, social entrepreneurs can encounter specific obstacles, such as limited access to funding.
Funded by Derby City Council, the pilot programme aims to create a thriving social enterprise ecosystem where social entrepreneurs can develop the skills and knowledge they need to flourish and connect with other people working on similar projects.
Working in partnership with the University of Derby and East Midlands Chamber, the programme will also gather information to help shape future support for social enterprises.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Portfolio Holder for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said: “Social enterprises are a wonderful example of businesses operating as a force for good. They not only create jobs and boost our local economy, but also tackle pressing social issues head-on.
“We believe that social enterprises have the power to transform lives and communities. This scheme goes some way to fulfil our manifesto promise to support new businesses, co-operatives and social enterprises to take up space in our city.”
Keith Jeffrey of Derby Social Ventures said: “While there are other initiatives supporting social entrepreneurs across the country, we believe this is the first time a city has appointed Social Entrepreneurs in Residence to specifically focus on providing direct support to social enterprise.”
Paul Squires added: “With our extensive experience of the sector, we understand the motivation and the unique challenges for social entrepreneurs. Our goal is to offer a range of activities and support to people starting up or already running businesses which make a social impact.”
The pilot runs until 31 December 2024.
Aggregate Industries has committed to be ‘nature positive’ by 20230.
Announcing the launch of the company’s first company-wide nature strategy Anna Baker, the company’s Sustainability Director, said: “It’s been widely documented that we are currently in a nature crisis. As our primary business model relies on the extraction of natural resources, we know that we need to play our part in contributing to a nature positive future which is why I am so pleased to launch our Nature Strategy.
“It provides clear commitments to ensure we reduce future negative impacts, restore nature and habitats and advocate for nature throughout our entire value chain.
“We recognise that during this time we’ll be learning, growing and sharing our experiences to deliver the nature based solutions needed to become Nature Positive by 2030.”
The company acknowledges that the nature and climate crises are intrinsically linked, and nature-based solutions will play a vital role in reducing the impact of climate change.
By launching its nature strategy the company looks to accelerate action and build upon a strong foundation, which includes investing £24m in restoration activity over the last five years.
Other fundamental drivers for the framework set out in the nature strategy include adopting the Science Based Target Network’s Framework for Nature, which outlines how we interact with nature, and, the Global Goal for Nature, which sets out how organisations can contribute towards nature positivity by 2030 in order to help biodiversity to recover and thrive.
Aggregate Industries intends to measure the biodiversity value of all of its active aggregates sites by surveying habitats and species and then set out on a journey to reduce future negative impacts, restore nature and habitats and advocate nature positivity.
On top of this, it will ensure that it has biodiversity plans at all of its active UK quarry sites, have dedicated places for nature across all 200 of its sites and further roll out of a woodland programme building on the 105,000 trees already planted at its Glensanda super quarry in western Scotland as part of a new 64-hectare woodland.
Among other key actions the company plans to undertake by 2026 are:
Increase use of Construction Demolition Materials to three million tonnes per year
Reduce freshwater withdrawal intensity in the production of cement (by 30%) and readymix concrete (by 3.9%)
Establish Biodiversity Indicator Reporting System (BIRS) and biodiversity baseline roadmap
Creation of a new AIUK Wildlife Fund
Produce a heatmap to understand the suppliers that have the greatest potential nature impact
Undertake nature impact assessments on the procurement of five high nature impact products.
Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council have announced a resolution to the dispute over plans for the Sinfin New Waste Treatment Facility.
Following a period of “constructive dialogue,” the councils have addressed the key issues that led to the dispute. Agreement on the terms of a new Inter Authority Agreement has been reached in full – which means both organisations can move forward in partnership with the confidence and certainty required to successfully complete the project.
Both councils remain committed to the original decision, made in February 2023, to progress option one: fix and operate the existing plant and have completed soft market testing throughout 2023 with positive engagement from the waste industry which confirmed there was capability, capacity and appetite in the market to deliver the project.
The councils will now move forward with the procurement exercise to rectify defects at the facility and bring it into use.
A spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council said: “We’re pleased to confirm that the dispute has been fully resolved and both councils have reaffirmed their commitment to working in partnership to get the waste treatment centre at Sinfin operational.
“This is in line with the decisions to fix and operate the facility which were taken by Cabinet Members at both councils at their respective meetings in February 2023.
“We look forward with confidence to moving the project forward to provide both councils with the most viable and cost-effective, long-term solution for the management of household waste, to benefit residents in both the city and county.”
Leicester City Council has appointed Loughborough-based Scope Construction as development partner to create a £1.8m children’s home in the city.
Maz Patel, the company’s MD, said: “It is great to be breaking ground on this latest project. Scope and our local supply chain take pride in the work we do and we aim to deliver a first-class project for the client and the local community. We look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with the council.”
Located in the west of the city, it will be the first children’s home to be built in Leicester for more than 40 years.
The home will provide purpose-built accommodation for six young people, between the ages of eight and 17, offering five bedrooms with ensuite facilities as well as two semi-independent living flats, a kitchen, lounge, games room and sleeping quarters for staff.
The build is the latest phase of work by the city council to expand its in-house provision of places for children and young people who can’t live with their birth families.
Work was recently completed to convert two council-owned houses in the south of the city into a children’s home, providing residential care for five young people.
The two projects mean the city council will be able to care for more children and young people in-house, increasing the number of council children’s homes from six to eight, caring for up to 48 children and young people.
Deputy city mayor for social care, Cllr Sarah Russell, said: “We are determined to provide the best possible care for the children and young people we look after. Most children who can’t live with their birth families live with foster carers, but this isn’t right for everyone, and increasing demand for children’s social care services in recent years means there has been a significant rise in demand for residential children’s homes. This is the case across the country.
“Providing more children’s homes within the city means children and young people can continue to receive support within their communities rather than them moving away from Leicester. This continuity and stability can be very important to children experiencing major disruption to their lives.
“There are also long-term financial advantages to providing more places ourselves.”
The new home will feature a range of energy efficiency measures including roof-mounted photo-voltaic panels, and air source heat pumps. It will also serve as a hub for training for social care staff, foster carers and other professionals.
Construction is expected to take about a year to complete, with the new children’s home likely to open in late 2025.
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies that serve a variety of sectors, has made its 8th acquisition in 2024.
Established in 2013, ECAS is headquartered in Birmingham and is an industry leader in environmental compliance. It provides compliance services for utility and commercial clients that help protect the environment by driving positive, sustainable, and long-lasting change in communities nationwide. This includes an award-winning programme that ensures food service establishments dispose of fats, oils, and grease responsibly and sustainably, in line with The Water Industry Act 1991.
Philip Soden, CEO of ECAS, said: “We’re thrilled that the Phenna Group has recognised our hard work, success, and potential. From our first engagement with the Phenna Group team, we felt confident that we’d found the right partner to support our future growth. I look forward to working with Mike and his team to fast-track our ambitious plans.”
Mike Andrews, Divisional MD, Compliance and Certification at Phenna Group, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Philip and his team to Phenna Group. He has built a very successful business over the last decade with an excellent reputation for customer service and technical capability. I am excited to see the ECAS team deliver on their exciting growth plans.”
Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, added: “I’m excited to have ECAS join our Group. ECAS is a market leader in the environmental compliance space and this acquisition expands our current service offering within the Compliance and Certification division. I look forward to seeing Philip and his team excel within Phenna.”
Phenna Group were advised by RSM and Hill Dickinson LLP.
ECAS were advised by Keyston Law and Evans Mockler.
With the nomination deadline nearing for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, there are 10 categories open for entry, offering a prime opportunity to showcase outstanding businesses, teams and projects at the prestigious event.
One such category is Residential Development of the Year, which can be entered here.
The winner of this category will be the scheme that has displayed a true commitment to providing much-needed housing in the East Midlands. There is no size limit, but schemes must have been completed over the last 12 months.
Last year the award was won by Lincoln’s St Marks student accommodation (Phoenix Brickwork UK Ltd), with Elms Phase Two Ltd (Elms Developments) and The Condor, Derby (St James Securities and Grainger) runners up.
Upon winning, Jamie Duerden, Brickwork Managing Director at Phoenix Brickwork UK Ltd, said: “I am overwhelmed with gratitude that Phoenix have been chosen to win this award. St Marks was a fantastic project and a huge accomplishment for our team being our largest masonry scheme to date. A big thank you to Bowmer and Kirkland Ltd for trusting us to deliver this prestigious project and a special thank you to our Phoenix team for all their efforts!”
A further statement from the business added: “This project holds a special place for Phoenix as one of our highest-valued and most spectacular builds. The impressive scheme of 10 blocks has provided homes for 1372 students at The University of Lincoln. A big thanks to East Midlands Business Link for recognising our project within these awards.”
Submit your nominations for Residential Development of the Year here before entries close on Thursday 5th September.
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby.
Other award categories open for entry include: Most Active Estate Agent, Commercial Development of the Year, Responsible Business of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Sustainable Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here.
The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – clickhere to secure yours.
The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Nottingham-headquartered software company Ideagen has announced an expanded three-year partnership with Nottingham Rugby Club, becoming the primary sponsor of the championship team.
Under this new agreement, Ideagen will be the front-of-shirt sponsor for both home and away kits and the main sponsor at The Bay, the home ground of the club. The new kit gets its first run out against Leicester Tigers at Welford Road next Friday.
Ben Dorks, Ideagen CEO and regular at The Bay, said: “We’re delighted to be strengthening our ties with Nottingham Rugby Club.
“Community, ambition and adventure are our company values, and our relationship with Nottingham Rugby is a great example of bringing this to life. Ideagen colleagues have loved supporting the team from the sidelines on matchdays and we’ve been able to work with the club to grow our education programme, showcasing the connection between sport and technology and the importance of teamwork and respect.
“We’re proud to support the team through this expanded sponsorship and look forward to many more successful seasons together.”
Nottingham Rugby Chairman, Alistair Bow, added: “Nottingham Rugby are delighted to be working with Ideagen, an organisation that shares our passion for the city. There are exciting times ahead for the club and Championship Rugby as a whole and Ideagen will play a key part in supporting us on our journey.
“We are proud to be partnering with them and look forward to the impact we can make both on and off the pitch with the local community.”
Ideagen’s relationship with Nottingham Rugby also extends beyond sponsorship. Will Yarnell, Commercial Compliance Manager at Ideagen, plays as the squad’s scrum-half and has recently re-signed for the 2024/25 season.
Will said: “It’s fantastic to see the business continue to support the club with this sponsorship. Both Ideagen and Nottingham Rugby serve as key pillars of the local community, and it’s great to see home-grown organisations supporting one another.
“Many of my Ideagen colleagues have already enjoyed visiting The Bay to watch some amazing rugby in action. I hope that even more will have the chance to experience it in the future.”
Ideagen, who are also shirt-sleeve sponsors of Premier League football club Nottingham Forest, have their global headquarters based in Ruddington. They have been a significant supporter of Nottingham Rugby Club since 2022. Initially partnering as a premium sponsor, the Ideagen logo has featured on the team’s shirts for the last two seasons.
New artwork has been shared that shows what a brand-new retail, office and makers’ centre on Victoria Street in Stapleford could look like.
The £6.2m building, called the Pencil Works, is funded through the Stapleford Towns Fund. It has been designed to offer high-quality facilities to support the town aims of becoming a great place to visit, work and do business. Stapleford was awarded £21.1m from the Government to generate improvements across the town.
The building is projected to create 50 jobs and 1,000 square metres of new retail, leisure and office space.
Plans include a creative makers’ space for specialist craftspeople and artists, three retail units for food/drinks outlets, public toilets, and disabled parking and bicycle storage on the ground floor, and flexible office space for small businesses on the first floor.
Subject to planning permission, work would get underway in winter with completion in late 2025.
The architect’s visualisations are subject to change as plans develop over the coming months in partnership with local people. A formal public consultation on the plans will take place in October 2024, including a drop-in event for local people to meet the team and ask questions.
Paul Sweeney, Director, Robert Ellis Estate Agents, said: “The Pencil Works will become an iconic landmark building in the centre of the town.
“It will deliver a much needed 21st century commercial space for a variety of businesses which will provide a synergy to the existing commercial enterprises in the town, increasing business to business activity, and becoming a destination that attracts people from the local community and further afield who will spend time and money in Stapleford.
“The creative space will be something not seen before in Broxtowe. It will provide artisans an outlet to work and collaborate with others. The front lends itself to businesses to provide an outdoor cafe/bistro vibe and will flow into Walter Parker VC Memorial Square, providing a more usable outdoor space for markets and events.”
Ian Jowett, Chair of Stapleford Towns Fund, said: “The Towns Fund is all about helping our town get back on track and this is one of our largest projects that aims to support local businesses, artists and creators, and create jobs.
“Though this investment we can offer the very best facilities and something different to other towns. We want to give people a reason to come to Stapleford for work, leisure and pleasure, as we know this will really help to boost our local economy.”
The inspiration for the name has been taken from Stapleford’s historic F. Chambers & Company Limited Pencil Works factory which resided on Broad Oak Drive from 1915 until 1973. The company was the first to manufacture cosmetic pencils for Boots in 1931. While they sold their business in the 1990s, the Chambers’ family still produce pencils in Stapleford.
A fall in the number of monthly company insolvencies in England and Wales reflects an improvement in local trading conditions, with a growing quantity of struggling businesses able to be rescued rather than closed down.
This is according to the Midlands branch of insolvency and restructuring body R3 and follows latest monthly statistics published by the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies decreased by 7.3% in July 2024 to a total of 2,191 compared to the previous month’s total of 2,363.
The drop in monthly company insolvencies follows soaring figures for June, which saw a 15.7% increase compared to the previous month, and a 17.1% rise against June 2023.
R3 Midlands Chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “With the monthly decrease in business insolvencies there has been a rise in administration numbers, which is potentially positive for business rescue prospects.
“Increasing numbers of businesses have been able to take early advice for exploring and activating rescue plans, enabling them to continue to trade rather than be wound up.
“This has been helped by recent improvements in market and economic conditions, driven mainly by a successful summer of sport and more stability for businesses following the General Election.
“Better trading conditions for the retail and hospitality sectors are likely to continue over the summer, while the construction sector could receive a further boost through the government’s planned housing and infrastructure initiatives, although it will take time for them to have an impact.
“Despite the economic improvements, we would urge individuals and businesses facing financial issues to maximise their outcome options and seek advice early, making the most of the free initial consultation most R3 members offer.”
A rural consultancy has enabled a pioneering arable farm to sell ‘carbon credits’ generated from sequestered carbon in its soil to a top Formula 1 team to offset their emissions.
Blaston Farm in Leicestershire, owned by Philipson Estates, has been at the forefront of regenerative farming for many years and has worked with Fisher German to help turn the farm into one that sequesters and stores a surplus of carbon.
With Fisher German’s advice alongside agronomists Indigro and soil monitoring firm Ecometric, it has recently produced a detailed soil organic matter testing methodology and moved to a more regenerative style of farming.
If a farm’s captured carbon is more than its yearly emissions, it means the surplus can be sold on the open market to private buyers looking to offset their emissions in the form of carbon credits.
After vigorous analysis from Ecometric, credits were listed on the Regen Network platform. Blaston Farm was able to sell credits to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 team via carbon finance specialist Respira International.
Vicky Povey, agribusiness graduate at Fisher German, said: “Creating carbon credits in this way is relatively new, and the market is very much an emerging one.
“But if a farm can demonstrate that it is sequestering carbon in its soils over time via detailed analysis from companies such as Ecometric, then it is looking more and more like a viable way of generating extra income, particularly as BPS declines to zero in 2027, and helping the environment.
“Blaston Farm and Philipson Estates are very much pioneers in this regard and have shown that for the right farm, carbon credits are valued by the market.
“For a company such as the Mercedes AMG PETRONAS F1 team to be purchasing credits, it shows the blue-chip firms hold them in high regard when it comes to offsetting emissions.
“It’s fair to say that this method isn’t foolproof. The number of credits generated can depend on the type of soil a farm has and weather conditions. When assessing farm suitability for carbon sequestration, it is worth assessing fields individually and bearing in mind the trade-offs associated with reduced cultivation.
“In addition, the longevity of these practices is somewhat unknown. We know the soil cannot store infinite amounts of carbon, so it is uncertain exactly how long we can continue to increase soil organic matter.
“But farmers who are already trying regenerative farming methods ought to think about having their soil carbon levels measured against their emissions to generate credits. The market is only growing, and as companies are increasingly looking for ways to offset their emissions, it could be a great way to make extra money when farms are often under pressure.
“For farmers thinking about generating carbon credits, it is vital to get expert advice so they can be sure it is a viable option for them.”
Blaston Farm has engaged with regenerative farming practices for several years, including the creation of wildlife habitats alongside arable land, the use of renewable energy such as solar panels and air-source heat pumps, and participation in SFI schemes.
Hylton Murray-Philipson, owner of Philipson Estates, believes that having exhausted the soil through years of continuous arable cropping, the heavy clay at Blaston has a 20-year journey of sequestration and recovery ahead.
Hylton added: “Soil organic matter is a much more immediate form of sequestered carbon compared to trees or peatland.
“At Blaston Farm, we have worked to improve soil quality by diversifying our crops and focusing on a more natural way of farming, which has enabled the soil to take in more carbon.
“We felt the creation of highly audited carbon credits would be valued by the market, and the fact that we’ve sold a number of them to Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 has proved us to be right.
“We’re looking forward to continuing to capture more carbon to generate more credits, which are currently listed on the Regen Network platform, and show that other farms – and of course, the environment – could benefit from this practice too.”
Derby-based project managers, construction cost consultants and building surveyors Armsons Barlow have completed a project to deliver a new car park in Swadlincote, South Derbyshire.
The scheme was undertaken on behalf of South Derbyshire District Council and represents a key part of the town’s broader regeneration project, aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and supporting the vitality of local businesses.
The project involved the demolition and clearance of several abandoned and derelict buildings, including the former Banks House and Bretby View.
The team from main contractor Cawarden stripped the site, demolished all concrete obstructions, including slabs, foundations, and drainage systems, before creating a new car park with associated drainage, kerb lines, retaining walls, access and landscaping.
The completed free to use car park covers over 2,000m² of tarmac with 54 spaces including eight EV charging points, with three of these designed to be extra wide to make them accessible for wheelchair users. The car park has been created to serve the town centre, ease parking constraints and foster economic activity.
The project has also introduced a ‘pocket park’ which features a granite path that loops through the site, leading to a circular seating area and is planted with over 200 native copper beech trees, creating a green space for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
Armsons Barlow worked alongside structural and civil engineers ABA Consulting Engineers, principal designers CJ Consilium Ltd and main contractors Cawarden.
Sally Walters, director of Armsons Barlow, said: “We are delighted to have completed this significant project in Swadlincote, which not only provides essential parking facilities but also enhances the landscape of the town with the addition of attractive green spaces.
“The successful delivery of this project reinforces our commitment to supporting local communities through sustainable development.”
Winvic Construction Ltd has been selected by GLP to construct MPN 761 at Magna Park in Lutterworth. The Winvic GLP partnership is a first and the industrial facility totalling 761,000 sq ft is the largest speculative unit that the developer has brought forward to date.
The project will see the main contractor reach a significant milestone in its 23-year history of constructing industrial facilities; MPN 761 located on Magna Park North marks Winvic’s construction of 100 million sq ft of industrial space.
MPN 761 will be the sixty-fourth industrial building that Winvic has been contracted to deliver with Net Zero Carbon requirements and it is set to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating and EPC A. The sustainable first-in-class design means it is 100% PV ready and WELL Building Standard compliant.
The building, with an 18-metre clear height to haunch, comprises a 716,662 sq ft warehouse, an 8,202 sq ft undercroft warehouse, a 1,615 sq ft plant deck and 34,667 sq ft space across a three-storey office and two transport offices; Winvic will fit out the offices to Cat A standards.
Winvic will also construct parking areas for 525 cars, 277 HGVs and 180 bicycles as well as undertake landscaping and planting.
The project will be handed over to GLP in June 2025.
Winvic will be working with GLP to undertake several social value activities to benefit people and businesses that are local to Magna Park as part of its ongoing commitment to deliver positive project legacies.
For example, Winvic will focus on providing employment opportunities to young people, engaging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and working with local schools and community organisations; this will include volunteering and providing regular donations to local food banks.
Danny Nelson, Managing Director of Industrial, Distribution and Logistics, said: “MPN 761 has become a special project for three reasons; it marks Winvic’s construction of 100 million square foot of industrial space, it’s GLP’s largest ever speculative unit and it has brought the start of a new and exciting contractor-client relationship. I’d like to thank GLP for appreciating our industrial sector expertise and ESG credentials, and for appointing us on this next phase at Magna Park.
“The premier and historic logistics developer is widely acclaimed within the industry for setting new standards in terms of design, environmental management, sustainability, occupier efficiency and local job creation, and we’re proud to now be a part of the Magna Park story. The team is looking forward to progressing safely through the programme and have their sights set on completion in June 2025.”
Peter Baird, Senior Construction Manager, GLP, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with Winvic to deliver MPN 761 as we embark upon the next important phase of development at Magna Park North. This is a testament to our confidence in the resilience of the UK logistics market and the strategic importance of the Midlands in particular.
“Winvic possess an impressive track record within the industrial sector, and we are pleased to welcome their expertise to our supply chain as we deliver a best-in-class mega distribution unit with occupier demand, technological advancements and environmental, social and governance principles at its core.”
Professional services group Gateley has appointed Edward Knapp as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chair Designate. Edward becomes a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect and will become Chairman when Nigel Payne steps down from the board on 1 November 2024.
Edward is a global business leader with extensive experience in growth strategy design and delivery, technology, risk management and transformation with a particular focus on professional and financial services.
He has held executive and senior leadership roles in consultancy and professional services, high-growth technology companies and major financial institutions worldwide, including McKinsey & Company, Barclays, HSBC, Revolut and M&G, where he has most recently brought a particular focus on advisory, wealth management and talent.
As a member of the UK Endorsement Board he is accountable for influencing, endorsing and adopting standards for audit, accounting and professional services spanning UK PLCs.
He currently serves as a Non-Executive Director of F&C Investment Trust plc and has extensive international private-equity backed and plc board and advisory experience, including Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee and Non-Executive Director of AIM company Ten Lifestyle Group plc and formerly as a Non-Executive Director of Mattioli Woods plc.
On appointment, Edward will become a member of the Remuneration, Audit and Risk and Nomination Committees. From 1 November 2024, he will take over the role of Chairman of the Board, and Chairman of the Nomination Committee.
Rod Waldie, CEO of Gateley, said: “On behalf of the board, I thank Nigel for his significant contribution to the Group throughout the nine year period since IPO. His experience, tireless commitment, clear perspective and support have been instrumental in growing the diverse and resilient professional services business that Gateley is today.
“I am delighted to welcome Edward to the board. He brings extensive and valuable executive and non-executive experience across a range of sectors, commercial acumen and strong and effective leadership. He will be an excellent chairman for the Group.
“I very much look forward to working with Edward as we continue to grow the Group, maximising the strengths and opportunities generated by the unique combination of professional services in our business.”
Edward Knapp, incoming Chair of Gateley, said: “It’s an honour to be appointed as the next Chairman of Gateley. Nigel and the whole team have achieved so much since IPO. The business has an extraordinary track record and heritage of delivering for clients across its legal and professional services capabilities.
“I am looking forward to engaging with our clients, colleagues, communities, shareholders and the whole board to help Gateley navigate the next chapter of outstanding client service, capitalising on its compelling talent proposition to deliver sustainable profitable growth and shareholder returns for the long term.”
Insurance intermediary, Specialist Risk Group (SRG), has acquired Loughborough-based Anthony James Insurance Brokers, subject to regulatory approval.
This latest acquisition further expands and strengthens SRG’s retail pillar, Specialist Risk Insurance Solutions (SRIS).
Founded in 2009, Anthony James Insurance Brokers has built a strong reputation for providing comprehensive insurance services for businesses across the UK. Its expertise spans a wide range of sectors including commercial, corporate, and high-net worth personal lines, making Anthony James a valuable addition to SRG’s existing portfolio.
Chairman and founder, Steve Boorman, and Managing Director, Jacob Duckworth, will continue to lead the business, aiming to accelerate growth both organically and through acquisitions. Their team of 50 staff will also transition to SRG, maintaining operations from the Loughborough and Nottingham offices as they establish and strengthen SRG’s presence in the East Midlands.
Anthony James becomes SRG’s fifth acquisition since it announced its new investment partners, Warburg Pincus and Temasek, in May this year.
Lee Anderson, SRG Group Deputy CEO, said: “Steve, Jacob and the team at Anthony James are a brilliant addition to our growing Group. They have built a fast growing and profitable business that we have admired for a number of years, and we are delighted to welcome them to SRG. The Anthony James team will add tremendous value to our retail business, SRIS, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact Steve and his team make as part of our exciting growth strategy.”
Steve Boorman, Anthony James Chairman, said: “It became clear when getting to know Lee and the SRG team throughout the deal process that we shared the same people-focussed and growth-oriented values. I would like to thank my team for all their hard work, and we now look forward to working with our SRG colleagues on our exciting future ahead.”
With only two weeks remaining until nominations close for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, ensure to submit your entries for the annual celebration of the property and construction industry by Thursday 5th September.
The Bricks shine a light on the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Take this chance to showcase exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as outstanding developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
A glittering awards ceremony revealing winners will take place on Thursday 3rd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, also offering the perfect opportunity to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region.
The event will additionally feature Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, as keynote speaker.
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
On Thursday 3rd October, East Midlands Business Link’s prestigious Bricks Awards will take place at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrating the region’s property and construction industry.
The annual event recognises development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.
With nominations closing on Thursday 5th September, 10 categories are available to enter. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your projects and team, reward their hard work, and boost morale.
Amongst this year’s categories is Responsible Business of the Year, which can be entered here.
The winner of this award will have demonstrated corporate responsibility in their field, working in harmony and for the betterment of the local community in which it operates and setting a shining example for the rest of the supply chain.
Last year the award was won by Cawarden, with G F Tomlinson and Aspbury Planning Limited runners up.
Upon winning, William Crooks, Managing Director of Cawarden, said: “Cawarden’s second consecutive win of the Responsible Business of the Year award is a true testament to our unwavering commitment towards improving the industry’s image. Our efforts to raise the bar for our people, planet, and community have been recognised through this award. Being a part of the regional property and construction sector is a source of immense pride for us, and we will continue to strive towards excellence.”
This year’s Responsible Business of the Year award will once again be sponsored by Press for Attention PR.
Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR, shared: “I have sponsored The Bricks for many years now and as far as I recall, always this particular category. Why is that? Well, it is the PR and the former journalist in me combined.
“There are some superb stories that come to light here that might otherwise struggle to make the news or are perhaps kept under the bushel to an extent. I get that. The work and changes that are being created are the key thing when it comes to being responsible from an ESG perspective, not the column inches. That being said, here’s a chance to cast off those sharing shackles and to shine the spotlight proudly on some of the fantastic feats and worthy work that is taking place across the region within the built environment. Cheers to you all.”
Offering advice to those entering the awards, Greg added: “First up, tell us judges a story. We don’t need to hear about what you do, your history and inside leg measurements. Set the scene by all means but grab our attention early on by explaining the problem or challenge as it stood and how you tackled it and crucially…why? How did you change things? What does it mean for the user/stakeholder. Remember, nobody wants a drill…they want a home in the wall. Show us the results.”
Submit your nominations for Responsible Business of the Year herebefore entries close on Thursday 5th September.
Winners and sponsors at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby.
Other award categories open for entry include: Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Architects of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Most Active Estate Agent, Excellence in Design, and Sustainable Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here.
The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – clickhere to secure yours.
The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Chesterfield software company RA Information Systems is to become an employee-owned business through an Employee Ownership Trust.
A company spokesman said: “The move reflects our commitment to sustaining the company’s independence and recognising the invaluable contributions of our employees. This decision not only secures the future of our business but also honours the legacy of our founders by preserving the unique culture that has defined RA Information Systems for over three decades.
“An EOT is particularly well-suited to RA Information Systems’ business model, where people are at the heart of its success. By placing ownership in the hands of those who contribute most, The company is aligning its structure with its long-term vision and values. This transition allows the firm to continue providing the high level of service which clients have come to expect while giving something back to dedicated colleagues.”
The Trustee of the RA Information Systems EOT Limited now owns 100% of the company shares. The initial Trustee Directors include Rob Dabbs, Helen Hadfield, and Rachel Judge, who will oversee the trust and ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of the employees and the business.
There will be no immediate changes to the day-to-day management of the company. The founding family —Rob, Annette, and Jon Dabbs — will continue to be actively involved, ensuring continuity and stability. The firm is confident that this new ownership structure will provide the stability, depth of management knowledge, and quick decision-making necessary to support customers well into the future.
Rob Dabbs, Trustee Director at RA Information Systems, said: “This transition to an Employee Ownership Trust is a natural evolution for our company. It ensures that our values are safeguarded while maintaining our unique culture. For our customers, it’s business as usual—we remain committed to delivering excellence, with the same dedication and passion that has always been at the core of RA Information Systems.”
Eddisons plans to extend its East Midlands regional reach further into Leicestershire with the appointment of Aman Verma as Associate Director, moving in from Phillips Sutton Associates.
This is the second senior hire for Eddisons in the East Midlands this summer, and this latest appointment is part of the firm’s strategic expansion in the region.
Addison’s Director Gilbert Harvey said: “Extending Eddisons’ offer in the East Midlands was always part of the business’s plan which began with the acquisition of Northamptonshire surveyors Budworth Hardcastle in 2022.
“While we have grown our regional roster of clients and instructions over the past two years, an active recruitment campaign – which is ongoing, with more appointments set to be announced in the autumn – is part of our plan for strategic growth across all counties in the East Midlands.
“Aman’s depth of knowledge of Leicestershire and the contrasting strengths of its commercial markets across the county will play a key part in presenting the Eddisons’ offer to new property audiences, as well as reinforcing our regional reach to existing clients.”
Mather Jamie, a specialist land development and property consultancy, has negotiated the sale of land in Coalville for a single-storey housing project.
Acting on behalf of a private landowner, Mather Jamie sought developer interest for a prime development site in Coalville. The site, which has full planning permission for 24 single-storey dwellings with garages and associated off-street parking and infrastructure, spans 2.67 acres.
It is strategically located to the south of Coalville, within the civil parish of Hugglescote and Donnington le Heath. Broadmead LLP has acquired the land with plans to deliver the approved bungalow scheme.
Chris Milne from Broadmead LLP said: “We’re committed to providing the homes people want, where they’re needed most. This opportunity allows us to build much-needed housing in this part of Leicestershire and look forward to the next stage of this process and seeing our plans become a reality.”
Sam Tyler, Development Surveyor at Mather Jamie, added: “This is an exciting scheme that will bring much-needed single-storey housing to the local area. Broadmead LLP has worked diligently to deliver an excellent outcome for our client.”
Rothera Bray Solicitors have been appointed to the legal panel of the Amputation Foundation.
Founded in 2017, the Amputation Foundation is a charity dedicated to providing immediate, empathetic, and effective support to amputees and their families.
As one of the Amputation Foundation’s recommended legal partners, Rothera Bray will leverage their extensive experience in limb loss litigation and will aid the charity in expanding its reach and delivering its strategy to support more people affected by limb loss.
Founder Stephen Cruse said: “Amputation Foundation is delighted to welcome Rothera Bray to the AF family. As the charity grows, so too does our need for additional support and having met with Rothera Bray on several occasions, we were excited by the synergy and ethos we shared.
“AF is expanding its regional support hubs and sharing a partnership with another Midlands based legal firm will help us and our members to access broader support.
“As a bilateral below knee amputee, I set Amputation Foundation up with one thing front and centre of my mind and that was and always will be, to support individuals and their families through what is invariably a life-changing experience.
“We are really looking forward to working with the Rothera Bray team to ensure our support can reach those people who want and need it.”
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to support those affected by limb loss,” said Greg Almond, Partner and Head of the Serious Injury team at Rothera Bray Solicitors.
“We are honoured to join the Amputation Foundation panel and contribute to their invaluable work. Together, we will provide vital resources and legal expertise to improve the lives of amputees and their families.”
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Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby.
Other award categories open for entry include: Most Active Estate Agent, Commercial Development of the Year, Responsible Business of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Sustainable Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here.
The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Ian Jowett, Chair of Stapleford Towns Fund, said: “The Towns Fund is all about helping our town get back on track and this is one of our largest projects that aims to support local businesses, artists and creators, and create jobs.
“Though this investment we can offer the very best facilities and something different to other towns. We want to give people a reason to come to Stapleford for work, leisure and pleasure, as we know this will really help to boost our local economy.”
The inspiration for the name has been taken from Stapleford’s historic F. Chambers & Company Limited Pencil Works factory which resided on Broad Oak Drive from 1915 until 1973. The company was the first to manufacture cosmetic pencils for Boots in 1931. While they sold their business in the 1990s, the Chambers’ family still produce pencils in Stapleford.
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
