Europe’s “incredible” disabled golfers seeking Cup glory after Derbyshire’s Purpose Media steps in to help fund their trip

Tess Egginton
-
0
Europe’s “incredible” disabled golfers seeking Cup glory after Derbyshire’s Purpose Media steps in to help fund their trip

Sixteen of Europe’s most talented disabled golfers are ready to fly to the USA to compete in their version of the Ryder Cup after an East Midlands marketing agency signed up as their sponsor.

The team, which consists of golfers from across the continent, including England, Scotland, Denmark and Germany, have been selected to play in the Cairns Cup, an annual transatlantic contest which pits Europe against a team from the United States.

The Cairns Cup is disability golf’s premier matchplay event and, just like the Ryder Cup, it sees players slug it out over three days with a four-ball, foursomes and singles rounds.

The event is taking place at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Detroit at the end of July, with the USA defending their title, which they picked up at 2022’s event, which took place at The Shire London, in Barnet.

Although the golfers play to a high standard, they have to rely on funding to compete, meaning that they need to attract sponsorship to meet the cost of taking part.

Among the firms helping them to pay their way is South Normanton marketing agency Purpose Media, which has contributed towards their costs and air fares, giving them a huge boost in their preparations.

It has also helped organise a fundraising golf day at Morley Hayes, in Morley, on May 9, where local businesses will be invited to play alongside members of the Cairns Cup team, so they can understand the challenges that they have to overcome in order to complete a round of golf.

The event, which is being held in partnership with the Cairns Cup and S O’Brien Heating Solutions, which is based on Pride Park, will begin at 9am and will cost £400 for a team of four.

The Cairns Cup was established in 2018 when former soldier and disabled golfer Kevin Booth and fellow players decided to set up a Ryder Cup-style competition in memory of a friend, Billy Cairns, who died during a previous Europe vs USA disabled golf event called the Phoenix Cup.

Six years on, the Europeans are putting out an experienced team featuring players with a range of disabilities, including amputees, paralysis, cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s.

The team is captained by Netherlands player Tineke Loogman, who was born with one arm, and its players include Kris Aves, who was left paralysed when, while serving with the Metropolitan Police, he was run over by a terrorist driving a stolen van in the Westminster Bridge attacks of 2007, and Trevor Crombie, who has cerebral palsy.

The event has grown in stature every time it has taken place and Kevin, who is now vice president of the European team, says everyone is looking forward to flying to the States to avenge last year’s defeat.

He said: “We’re so grateful to Purpose Media for supporting us and for sharing our philosophy that the game of golf is for everyone and everyone deserves the opportunity to play it.

“All of our players have had to overcome challenges and have all got stories that will touch your heart, but when people see them play they are amazed by their ability with the golf club and the way they refuse to let their disability stop them from getting out onto a golf course.

“This will be my last Cairns Cup event I will be organising so I’m really looking forward to it. It’s a huge undertaking and we’re confident that we can win this time round.”

Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media, is a keen golfer himself, but has a very personal reason for wanting to support the Cairns Cup European team.

He said: “When I was 19 I suffered an injury while playing football and nearly had to have my foot amputated, and more recently, while on holiday I fell and broke my neck and was inches away from being left paralysed.

“So when I first saw these incredible Cairns Cup golfers I thought ‘that could have been me’, but I was totally unprepared for how incredible they are and what they’ve had to overcome.

“We’re really proud to be sponsoring the team and we’re confident that there will be a good turn-out at the golf day. Even if they’re not a super-keen golfer, no-one can fail to be amazed at what these guys achieve and playing against them is extremely inspirational.”

Renewables company makes eleventh strategic acquisition

Tess Egginton
-
0
Renewables company makes eleventh strategic acquisition
Cleantech business Green Building Renewables has expanded its nationwide network into Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire with its eleventh acquisition.   

Newark-based JL Phillips Renewable Energy Limited increases the company’s turnover to £42 million as it remains on track to reach its £100 million turnover target by the end of 2025.

Since 2021, Green Building Renewables has increased its turnover more than tenfold from £3m to over £40m. Its rapid growth reflects the increasing demand for renewable technology in domestic and commercial settings.

JL Philips’ acquisition allows Green Building Renewables to expand further into Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. The company already has an existing office in Nottingham. 

Green Building Renewables’ continued strategic vision is to extend the benefits of solar energy and low carbon heating to as many local communities as possible by investing into existing local reputable renewable installation companies. 

Managing Director of Green Building Renewables, Chris Delaney, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Jason and his team to ours. JL Phillips is our eleventh acquisition and it demonstrates our commitment to continually investing in renewables and low carbon technology across the country as we aim to build the largest renewable installation company in the UK.” 

Jason Phillips, Managing Director of JL Phillips, added: “Our team is excited about joining Green Building Renewables’ nationwide network of renewable energy experts. The model that Chris and his team are building to offer local installers across the country is important. It ensures that customers get the best local service they can from installers who know their area and understand their needs.” 

The investment into JL Phillips will increase jobs by 25% in the region and is part of a wider strategy to recruit and train the renewable workforce of the future. There remains a skills shortage in the UK when it comes to qualified solar panel installers and heat pump engineers.

In the last two years, Green Building Renewables has grown from one office in York to 15 regional offices across England. By the end of 2024 the company aims to have full coverage of England. 

Staff numbers have increased sixfold in the last two years and the aim this year is to increase staff numbers by a further 60%. The SME has recruited 19 staff already in 2024 and currently has 20 vacancies across the business.  

Chris Joubert, Merger and Acquisition Director at Green Building renewables, added: “JL Phillips is the second acquisition of the year for the company and it’s only March. We are in active conversations with other companies, and we are confident that by the end of the year we will have complete coverage of England through our nationwide local network. This will ensure everyone in the country will be able to access our trusted and highly rated services.”

Public to decide who leads £4bn boost for the East Midlands

Tess Egginton
-
0
Public to decide who leads £4bn boost for the East Midlands
A £4 billion investment in the future of the East Midlands will be guided by a public vote. Derbyshire, Derby, Nottinghamshire and Nottingham have opened the door to a massive investment in transport, skills, housing and the environment after securing a deal to set up a combined county authority covering the region. But what the combined county authority does will be led by a mayor – and the public get to decide who that mayor is. The first ever election for a mayor of the East Midlands will take place on Thursday 2 May, and a campaign has just been launched to encourage people to head to the polls on voting day. The £4 billion investment has been made possible after government agreed to give up some of its powers and transfer them to the mayor and combined county authority through a landmark devolution deal agreed in 2022. The move means that the East Midlands will be on an equal footing with areas like the West Midlands, Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire, where elected mayors have secured similar large-scale investment pots. The East Midlands deal is one of the biggest so far, and the team setting up the combined county authority say the mayor will have the powers and resources to begin a long-term process of growing the region’s economy by investing in skills that lead to better jobs, transport that works better across the region, housing where it’s needed and an economy equipped to deal with net zero. Mark Rogers, interim Chief Executive of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), said: “This is a big deal in every sense. It’s on a scale that the East Midlands hasn’t seen before, and gives it the powers and resources it needs to turn round under-investment, tackle challenges and open up massive new opportunities for people and places.
“This is all about bringing power back to the East Midlands, and the most significant part of that process is the vote – the people will decide who’ll lead this transformation.”
The campaign to encourage voting is based on the shift of powers from Westminster to the East Midlands. With a slogan ‘here, not there’ it promotes the powers the mayor will have to take big decisions about the future of the East Midlands ‘here’ in the region rather than ‘there’ in London. The combined county authority is being formed by Derbyshire County Council, Derby City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Nottingham City Council and was developed in partnership with district and borough councils across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Leaders and deputy leaders from each authority will sit on the combined county authority, but they’ll also be advised by specialists from different parts of the community. This includes a business advisory board that will be developed by the interim representative for business, David Williams, who chairs the law firm Geldards, which has a major office presence in both Derby and Nottingham. He said: “This is going to make a huge difference to the East Midlands and there’s a clear emphasis on investing in projects and places that are going to support a long-term improvement to people’s lives. “This is why it’s so important that everyone out there has their say. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest billions of pounds in people’s futures – so our people need to decide who they want to make the key decisions.” The mayor will lead a combined county authority that is being given powers currently held by Westminster to invest over the long-term in priorities like transport, skills, housing and regeneration and net zero. It won’t duplicate what local councils do. The object is to invest in ways that suit the East Midlands, making it easier to travel across different East Midlands transport networks, matching skills to what the region’s businesses do, enabling house building and land regeneration where it’s needed and exploiting the region’s strengths in net zero technologies to create a robust, renewable energy system. The EMCCA is being funded by government and will not take money away from existing council budgets.

East Midlands business confidence falls in March

Tess Egginton
-
0
East Midlands business confidence falls in March

Business confidence in the East Midlands fell 17 points during March to 35%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Companies in the East Midlands reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 15 points at 37%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down 19 points to 33%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 35% (vs. 52% in February).

Businesses in the East Midlands identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (48%), investing in their team, for example by hiring new staff or investing in training (37%), and entering new markets, for example by diversifying into adjacent markets or exporting to new ones (36%).

The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.

National picture

Overall UK business confidence registered 42% in March, the same as in February, as firms’ confidence in their own trading prospects (49%) held steady, and confidence in the economy strengthened by one point (35%).

Yorkshire and the Humber was the most confident UK nation or region in March (60%), followed by the North East (56%) and London (52%).

Sector insights

Services confidence fell 5 points to 40%, the first decline since December. That drop, however, was offset by rises in confidence in the manufacturing, retail and construction sectors.

The gains in manufacturing (up 1 point to 41%) and construction (up 2 points to 40%) were relatively modest and confidence remained below levels seen at the start of 2024. Firms in the retail sector reported improved confidence (up 5 points to 45%), which was the strongest result for over two years.

Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “While it might be discouraging to see a drop in business confidence in the region this month, a pickup in businesses looking to evolve their offering since last month points to an increasing focus on diversification as a route for growth.

“As an upcoming devolution deal will deliver £38m per year for the newly formed East Midlands Combined County Authority, regional businesses can look forward to fresh development opportunities. We’ll continue to be by the side of local firms as they prepare to capitalise on all opportunities ahead.”

Historic redundant buildings converted into modern offices for Derby charity

Tess Egginton
-
0
Historic redundant buildings converted into modern offices for Derby charity
The Liversage Trust, an historic Almhouses Charity with a legacy dating back to 1529, has successfully revamped a redundant site on Alice Street in Derby. This site, situated within the Nottingham Road Conservation Area, has been revitalised into contemporary offices and workshops featuring courtyard parking. The Liversage Trust, renowned for its commitment to offering accommodation and care for Derby residents in need, boasts a diverse and well-managed property portfolio comprising 163 Almhouses, a 40-bed care home, and an array of commercial units and residential properties across the city. The charity’s flagship site is the historic Almshouses on London Road, dating back to 1836, which stands opposite the new Nightingale development. With plans to convert the Almshouses including the on-site office; a development project began to relocate the offices to the redundant building on Alice Street. The Alice Street buildings are of the 1930’s period and have a character typical of functional industrial buildings with solid brick Flemish bond walls, steel industrial small paned windows of the Crittal type and slate pitched roofs. The offices are now fully renovated and are a blend of modern amenities and sustainable design elements. Their completion marks a significant milestone for the Trust and makes a positive contribution to the preservation of the Nottingham Road Conservation Area. Architect, Matthew Montague said: “The new offices will add great operational benefit to the Trust, enhance the future viability and prosperity of the conservation area and strengthen the trust’s portfolio. The project has gone well on site and we are delighted to handover ahead of schedule.” Andy Mellors, General Manager of The Liversage Trust, said: “We are delighted with the completed project; the new space meets the evolving needs of our organisation and reflects our commitment to historical preservation; all of which allow us to keep the heritage and work of The Trust progressing and moving forwards.”

£2.5m regeneration scheme transforms Leicestershire town centre

Tess Egginton
-
0
£2.5m regeneration scheme transforms Leicestershire town centre

A town centre regeneration project has been completed, revitalising the area for local businesses and residents and enhancing community space.

Shepshed’s Market Place in Leicestershire is now a versatile and pedestrian-friendly environment, following work undertaken by multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard. The improvements, which are set to boost trade and increase footfall in the region, include new car parking spaces, seating, bicycle parking facilities and an array of trees and plantings.

Pavements in Market Place and along nearby Brook Street have also been upgraded and expanded, with soft landscaping elements implemented to increase accessibility and reinforce visual identity in the town centre.

The transformation forms part of a wider set of public realm works by Charnwood Borough Council, which will enable the town centre to host new events and market stalls.

The work, which has been several years in the making, saw Pick Everard deliver project and cost management services via Perfect Circle and the SCAPE Consultancy direct award framework, designed to drive collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings on construction projects.

Matt Hall, director at Pick Everard, said: “It’s fantastic to see the transformation of Shepshed’s Market Place complete, which will generate increased footfall for local businesses. Improving our high streets and public spaces is vital to ensure they suit the way we live our lives today.

“The scheme has placed accessibility and flexibility at the fore to ensure the space can be used for a variety of purposes, including town centre events that will turn Shepshed into a destination offering.

“The work undertaken was both challenging and rewarding, with collaboration and engagement with project partners and the community ensuring any disruption was kept to a minimum in a live working environment. We look forward to watching the space evolve as a modern town centre that benefits residents and visitors alike.”

The Market Place renovation also coincides with improvements to the local Bull Ring, Hall Croft and Field Street.

The scheme, known as the Shepshed Town Centre Masterplan, is led by Charnwood Borough Council, working alongside Shepshed Town Council and Shepshed Town Team.

Cllr Jewel Miah, leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “It is so pleasing to see this project completed and it has made the area a much more attractive place for people.

“We have worked closely with the town council and the town team in consultation with local businesses and residents throughout the process and I hope these improvements will have a positive impact on the town.

“The area is now better for residents and is much more accessible and safer.”

Creative agency makes move to Ednaston Park

Tess Egginton
-
0
Creative agency makes move to Ednaston Park
Behaviour change marketing agency MacMartin have relocated to Ednaston Park Business Centre located between Derby and Ashbourne. The company was previously located at Needwood House in Burton upon Trent. Ran by sisters Anna and Claire, MacMartin began in 2017, they now employ a small team of creative experts. MacMartin have been involved in delivering impactful campaigns for Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and YMCA to name a few. Commenting on MacMartin’s move to Ednaston Park, Gina Connett, Facilities Manager at Ednaston Park Business Centre, said: “We are delighted to welcome MacMartin to Ednaston Park Business Centre. “Their team perfectly complement our diverse, growing business community here. We look forward to watching MacMartin prosper within the beautifully unique surroundings that Ednaston Park has to offer.” Set in 18-acres of landscaped gardens, Ednaston Park was built in the 19th century. Until 2016 it housed the St Mary’s Nursing Home; it was then bought by Clowes Developments in September 2017. Since then, the developer has invested heavily in the property to turn it into modern office accommodation, combining contemporary styling with many of the building’s original period features. Ednaston Park now comprises of flexible commercial space in the form of 32 office suites ranging in size from 54 sq ft to 553 sq ft, available as single or multi-office lets. It also features meeting rooms, a break-out area and landscaped gardens. In 2022, Clowes demolished the old nunnery living quarters at the back of the main building to create a further three units known as Ednaston Mews, now fully occupied. Recently completed at the start of 2024, adjacent to the business centre is the newly refurbished Ednaston Barns which benefit from their own self-contained plot to the side of the main building.

Corby business sold to employees

Tess Egginton
-
0
Corby business sold to employees

A Corby-based international telematics firm has been majority sold to an employee ownership trust (EOT).

Mobilevalley has used a £1 million funding package from HSBC UK to support the transfer of ownership of the business to its employees, securing up to 18 jobs in the local area.

An EOT is a special form of employee benefit trust introduced by the Government in September 2014 to encourage more shareholders to set up an employee-led business. Following the move, employees at Mobilevalley are now able to have a meaningful say in how the business is run and operated, driving long-term business growth, employee engagement and ensuring its services are protected for its customers.

As part of its growth plans, the move has also enabled Mobilevalley to open its new branded Midlands Telematics Centre in Corby. The state of the art 3,500 sq ft centre will provide all its services under one roof and is designed for commercial partners and those looking for HGV telematics or CCTV products.

The company is expecting a 10 per cent increase in turnover as a result of the deal.

Troy Smith, Managing Director at Mobilevalley, said: “Our business model is only achievable through the hard work and dedication of our employees, and we’re so pleased that HSBC UK has been able to support our vision of ensuring our business stays committed to its people.”

Nicholas Young, Business Banking Area Director at HSBC, added: “HSBC UK is committed to supporting local economies and communities. A transaction like this ensures the longevity of a successful local business, even after the founders retire.

“We’re pleased to have been able to support Mobilevalley with this key milestone in their lifecycle and enable the business to progress its succession plan.”

With over 25 years’ experience in the telematics installation sector, Mobilevalley is a specialist installer of high-end tracking devices and telematics for large vehicle fleets including trucks, buses, vans and trailers. Its customers stretch across the UK and Europe and span public transport, emergency services and logistics.

UK Space Agency chooses Space Park Leicester for regional office

Tess Egginton
-
0
UK Space Agency chooses Space Park Leicester for regional office
Space Park Leicester has been chosen to host one of three new regional offices for the UK Space Agency, as part of its national expansion to support the space sector across the UK. The expansion will see the UK’s executive agency for space activity base staff at the University of Leicester’s £100 million science and innovation park. Aligned with the government’s Levelling Up strategy, the expansion will enable the Agency to collaborate more closely with the UK’s thriving space sector, while promoting regional skills and job opportunities to deliver increasingly ambitious missions and capabilities. Within its first two years, Space Park Leicester has already been established as the second largest campus-based cluster with a dedicated space focus in the UK and generated an estimated £89m for the economy in its first year. Professor Richard Ambrosi, Executive Director of Space Park Leicester, said: “Space scientists at the University of Leicester have a long history of working with the UK Space Agency on numerous space missions and programmes spanning upstream technology development and downstream science. “University of Leicester expertise has supported missions with UK Space Agency involvement such as the European Space Agency’s Bepi Colombo mission to Mercury, the Rosalind Franklin Mission to Mars, the Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer mission to launch in 2025 and carbon monitoring mission MicroCarb just to name a few.” Recent projects to receive support from UK Space Agency at Leicester include work on carbon mapping sensors for monitoring greenhouse gas emission management programmes in Bahrain. Funding has also been awarded for a Midlands Space Cluster Development Manager to work with local government, businesses and academia, to coordinate space activity and encourage collaboration and inward investment in the Midlands, as well as to the Midland Aerospace Alliance’s Pivot into Space R&D programme. At the start of the year, University of Leicester scientists also received funding from the UK Space Agency’s Space Science and Exploration Bilateral Programme to deliver (with other UK and Spanish collaborators) a Raman spectroscopy instrument for commercial lunar rover and lander missions investigating minerals on the Moon, helping us to understand whether this is a resource that could be used for longer term lunar exploration. Professor Sarah Davies, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Leicester, said: “We are delighted that the UK Space Agency is joining our dynamic and collaborative community at Space Park Leicester. “Space Park draws together colleagues from industry and academia who are working in space and the space-enabled sectors and whose activities and objectives are consistent with those outlined in the recently-published Space Industrial Plan. “Given the value of the UK space sector to our economy, locating UKSA offices in places such as Space City Leicester will be crucial to realising the UK’s ambitions in Space and the University of Leicester is committed to supporting that endeavour.” The UK Space Agency is opening new headquarters at the Harwell Science Campus’ Space Cluster in Oxfordshire and regional offices in Scotland, Wales and the Midlands as it works to support the space sector across the UK. The new structure will create significant opportunities to build on high-growth areas, such as Earth observation and satellite broadband. It will also help the UK establish early leadership in emerging markets such as in orbit spacecraft servicing, active space debris removal, and the new lunar economy, enabling us to help forge a greener, smarter and more inclusive sector. Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said: “This is a transformational moment for the UK Space Agency, responding directly to the feedback that the Agency should be embedded in the sector. “Our new headquarters, located at the UK’s biggest space cluster in Harwell, will connect to new regional offices in Leicester, Edinburgh and Cardiff, and our existing London and Swindon teams, helping us recruit space talent from across the nation and deliver the National Space Strategy. “Space Park Leicester is a vital part of both Space City Leicester and the broader Midlands Space Cluster, with both a national and international focus. As the city’s hub for space research and innovation, since opening in 2022, it’s crucial we nurture Space Park Leicester’s skills and expertise and connect them with the wider sector to ensure we continue this journey.”

Pork pie maker fined £800,000 after two Nottingham workers lose fingers

Tess Egginton
-
0
Pork pie maker fined £800,000 after two Nottingham workers lose fingers
A company that specialises in making pork pies has been fined £800,000 after two young workers lost fingers in incidents at two different Nottingham bakeries. Pork Farms Ltd, which makes other savoury goods such as quiches, at several sites across England, was given the fine after both workers were injured just weeks apart at the end of 2022. The first incident took place on 16 November when a 22-year-old worker had his hand trapped while trying to clear a blockage on a conveyor at the firm’s Tottle Bakery on Dunsil Drive. He had to have a finger amputated after his hand was trapped between a chain and sprocket on a conveyor at the site. However, just weeks later, on Christmas Eve, Mahamad Hassan, who was just 19, suffered similar injuries at Pork Farms Limited’s Riverside Bakery. The teen also had a finger amputated as a result of coming into contact with a rotating shaft on a conveyor. Nottingham Magistrates’ Court heard that the company had failed to ensure that the conveyors involved in both incidents were adequately guarded. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that dangerous parts of both conveyors were accessible at the time of each incident. At the Tottle Bakery, an unsuitable interlock was used on a hinged guard over a chain conveyor system and an inadequate inspection and maintenance regime led to this interlock failing. The chain conveyor automatically moved as he tried to adjust the position of the chain following a blockage in the area. At the Riverside Bakery, a section of the driveshaft of a lineshaft style conveyor was unguarded and spacing of the rollers was sufficient for a person’s arm to pass through and reach the driveshaft below. Mr Hassan was injured when his arm went between the rollers and his gloved hand became entangled in the rotating driveshaft. In addition to physical guarding issues, there was no warning system to give notice that the conveyor was about to start working and emergency stop controls were not readily accessible. Pork Farms Limited, of Queens Drive, Nottingham, pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £600,000 for the incident at the Tottle Bakery and £200,000 for the incident at the Riverside Bakery. The company was also ordered to pay costs of £6,482 at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 18 March 2024. Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Tim Nicholson said: “Both of these incidents were completely preventable. They left two young men with injuries that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. “Companies shouldn’t overlook important machinery safety basics, including provision and maintenance of adequate guards and protection devices, to ensure that access to dangerous parts of machinery is prevented. “Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

Revenue and profit dip at Forterra

Tess Egginton
-
0
Revenue and profit dip at Forterra

Revenue and profit have dipped at Forterra, the manufacturer of clay and concrete building products.

According to full year results for 2023, revenue slid from £455.5m in 2022 to £346.4m.

Meanwhile, profit before tax declined from £70.6m to £31.1m.

Neil Ash, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Forterra produced a resilient performance in 2023, in what turned out to be a very challenging year for our industry. Demand for new housing in the UK fell substantially, driven by increasing interest rates adversely impacting affordability and therefore demand for new homes.

“In light of this lower demand management took decisive action on our cost base. Assuming 2024 demand remains consistent with 2023, our management actions will ensure output is broadly matched with sales, thus limiting future inventory build.

“Importantly, however, these temporary reductions will not impact our ability to respond quickly when our markets recover. Indeed, one bright spot during 2023 was the commissioning of the new Desford brick factory, which gradually ramped up production throughout the year, and which will provide a significant capacity uplift in improved markets.

“With the long-term under-supply of housing in the UK continuing to worsen, and with our previous capacity constraints now addressed, the Board remains confident in the Group’s ability to benefit as our key markets recover.”

During the year production was reduced through the mothballing of factories, shift reductions and production breaks. In addition, Forterra restructured commercial and back-office functions.

These actions are set to deliver annualised fixed costs savings in excess of £20m, with around £6m realised in 2023 and the balance being realised in 2024.

Revenue and profit soar at Journeo

Tess Egginton
-
0
Revenue and profit soar at Journeo

Journeo plc, the Ashby-de-la-Zouch-based information systems and transport technical services group, has seen revenue and profit soar.

According to final results for the year ended 31 December 2023, revenue increased 118% to £46.1m, up from £21.1m in 2022.

Profit before tax, meanwhile, increased 312% to £3.7m, up from £0.9m in 2022.

Russ Singleton, CEO of Journeo plc, said: “I am very pleased with the progress we have made towards reaching our goal of becoming a market leader in our field. Our strengthening intellectual property and increased barriers to entry into our markets are helping us establish defendable market positions.

“Each year, we are growing our recurring revenue base as well as our sales order book, providing us with greater forward earnings visibility. Together with healthy cash balances, we are able to invest further in our technologies and business.

“The acquisitions of Infotec and MultiQ have performed well since joining the Group, extending our capabilities and geographic reach. We continue to seek out complementary acquisitions that can provide Journeo with access to adjacent markets or increase the services we deliver into our current markets.

“As we entered 2024, we did so with momentum in our strategy, which is enabling us to deliver valuable products, software, and services for our customers. Our strong order book, growing sales pipeline, and increasing leadership positions give us confidence in our ability to further grow the business.”

Contractor appointed for design and re-development of former Beales building in Mansfield

Tess Egginton
-
0
Contractor appointed for design and re-development of former Beales building in Mansfield

Mansfield Connect has taken a step forward following the appointment of a contractor for the design and re-development of the former Beales building in Mansfield.

Mansfield District Council has appointed Kier Group plc following a competitive tender process to undertake phase one for the Mansfield Connect project. It will see the 1930s former Beales building in the heart of the town centre transformed into a modern, multi-agency and community hub. Phase one was given the green light in a delegated decision taken by Councillor Craig Whitby, Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Finance. It will see the overall design and development of the project, then subject to progress, the council will then tender and award a contract for phase two in autumn 2024, which will see the main construction work being undertaken. Project work is expected to start on site in January 2025, with it being fully operational and open in January 2027. Following a submission made by the council, the scheme was allocated the full £20 million from round two of the government’s flagship Levelling Up Fund in January 2023. It is expected to house a variety of public, educational, enterprise, and health and wellbeing services, along with space for private sector investment and Mansfield District Council’s new headquarters. The project is anticipated to cost around £30 million to complete, and this will be made up of the £20 million Levelling Up Fund, £5 million from the Levelling Up Partnership, with the balance from partner contributions, and from Mansfield District Council anticipated capital receipts. Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “Mansfield Connect is a key regeneration project that will transform the long vacant Beales department store into a multi-use, multi-service community and civic hub. “Its creation will significantly improve access to a range of public services to support our communities; create new opportunities for enterprise and skills development; provide important new town centre amenities; and, by re-opening long closed frontages, will support greater footfall and high street vibrancy. “The co-location of the council with partners in the town centre represents an opportunity to bring key services together, facilitating service transformation and significant efficiency gains within the council and across partner services. “This once-in-a-lifetime regeneration project is a fundamental step forward in creating a brighter and transformative future for Mansfield’s residents, and we anticipate it will stimulate further private sector investment and economic opportunity in the town centre and beyond.” The council purchased the building in December 2021 to take control over shaping a new future for the town centre. It forms a key part of the council’s adopted Town Centre Masterplan and complements several other regeneration projects and developments being progressed across the town. It also aligns with the broader council strategies promoting Growth, Aspiration, Wellbeing and Place. The CEO of Mansfield BID, Jay Rowlinson, said the project is the key to unlocking more business and investment in the town centre. He said: “The impact the multi-agency hub will deliver to our local businesses is two-fold. We will see an increase in footfall in the town centre by having a one-stop shop for council services, education, benefits, and job support. “Also, our town centre businesses will further reap the benefits with all these staff and additional visitors using their eateries, shopping with them for goods, and enjoying what the town offers. “It will not only increase the vibrancy of Stockwell Gate, a key entry point into our town, but it will also bring a building that has stood empty back into use, and I look forward to seeing the progress get underway.” The Mansfield Connect building will be both refurbished and rebuilt to ensure maximum value for money while ensuring important heritage assets are retained. It is anticipated that the front art-deco of the former Co-op building will be retained, and the remaining parts of the building could be demolished with a new building created. It is also anticipated that the existing two shopping link footbridges over Stockwell Gate will be removed within the scheme, opening a key entrance into the town centre, and unlocking its vibrancy. More details will be confirmed during the phase one process, and subsequent planning application due to be submitted later this year.

Ashfield council appoints contractor to revitalise derelict site in Sutton

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Ashfield council appoints contractor to revitalise derelict site in Sutton
The centre of Sutton in Ashfield is to be enhanced with a project to be delivered by Lincoln-based Lindum Group, which next month will start  to breathe new life into a derelict site on Fox Street. It will become a flexible outdoor space linking pedestrians from ASDA to the town centre, but also to be a venue for markets and events. Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “We can’t wait to see this project begin. The Fox Street site has been an eyesore for a long time and our renovation works will breathe life into it, creating a space that can be used for events and markets – capitalising on the natural footfall in this part of Sutton. Ashfield District Council’s plans for the entire District are revolutionary and will create a lasting impact on Ashfield; a great place to live, visit, work, and play.” Lindum Group MD Edward Chambers said: “Our previous projects with the council together have included the creation of Moor Market in Kirkby and construction of more than 60 new energy-efficient homes across the district. “We’ve been working with the authority on this scheme since mid-2023 to help find the most cost-effective way to deliver the works, which will make a huge difference to the town centre, and ultimately provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.” The site is currently a disused wasteland. The transformative works will see a 41-space car park created with new lighting, CCTV and native trees and hedging planted to enhance biodiversity. The River Idle, which runs through the back of the site, will be cleaned, and restored, providing a natural focal point. The works to Fox Street are being funded by Ashfield District Council’s £6.27million Future High Streets Fund. The next stage of the regeneration of Sutton town centre will start shortly after Fox Street, with ground being broken on Portland Square in May. The Council’s ambitious plans for Portland Square will create a modern, attractive, and useable town centre, funded as part of their £62.6million Towns Deal.

More jobs to be created in Worksop as part of East Midlands Investment Zone

Tess Egginton
-
0
More jobs to be created in Worksop as part of East Midlands Investment Zone
Plans to unlock £160 million in government grants have taken a notable step forward as the final steps are taken to formalise the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) – part of which will be on the edge of Worksop – helping to create new jobs, increase productivity and boost the local economy. Bassetlaw District Council Cabinet members have agreed to progress to the next stage of the proposed EMIZ which will include three sites: the Centre of Excellence in Modern Construction (Bassetlaw and Bolsover); Infinity Park Derby (Derby City and South Derbyshire); and Hartington Staveley (Chesterfield). The EMIZ is intended to act as a catalyst for new investments from existing companies in the region, including Laing O’Rourke in Bassetlaw and Rolls Royce in Derby. Together, these sites are intended to support growth in the green industries and advanced manufacturing sectors across the East Midlands as a whole. It’s expected they will collectively help to bring in over £380 million in private investment and upwards of 4,000 jobs to the region. By continuing to be key partners in this inward investment strategy, Bassetlaw District Council can bid for flexible funding in the future worth around £120 million which it can spend on areas including skills, local infrastructure, business support and research and innovation. This could be anywhere in the district, including projects associated with the STEP fusion energy project at West Burton. Cllr James Naish, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, said: “We are pleased to see that once more, Bassetlaw’s potential as a vibrant place to live, work and do business is being recognised as one of only three parts of the East Midlands to be part of the emerging East Midlands Investment Zone. “By continuing to engage and work at a regional level, the Council and its partners will be able accelerate the transformation of the district into a hub for new technologies. “We welcome the opportunities that this will bring to secure new investment; to create high-quality apprenticeships and jobs; and, ultimately, to improve life chances for Bassetlaw residents.” The financial incentives on the three sites – totalling 95 hectares in total – will initially last five years with the potential for a further five-year extension. Bassetlaw District Council’s Cabinet has given permission to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the new East Midlands Mayoral Combined County Authority (EMMCCA). It is expected that investment incentives at the Laing O’Rourke Centre of Excellence in Modern Construction (CEMC) on the edge of Worksop, will fast track the development of a modular construction hub and an apprenticeship training academy, boosting local productivity. Linked with the University of Nottingham this vital economic boost will create positive opportunities for raising the skillsets of local residents. The latest Cabinet paper details how the EMIZ will be established at the start of next month when the East Midlands Mayoral County Combined Authority (EMMCCA) is formally created.

Grants relaunched for rural Harborough businesses

Tess Egginton
-
0
Grants relaunched for rural Harborough businesses
Businesses in the Harborough district are being encouraged to apply for grant funding through the Harborough Rural Grant Scheme 2024/25.
Eligible applicants can benefit from grants between £5,000-£20,000 to support their business to diversify, innovate and grow. The council is keen to support exciting projects that will help local businesses and the wider economy and community. The scheme spans across four themes:
  • Farm Business Diversification
Supports farm businesses to diversify their business activities outside of agricultural activities. Such projects should improve business resilience, development, and revenue
  • Innovate and Grow
Support micro and small enterprises in rural areas looking to deliver innovative projects. Funding will support projects that change the way businesses do something, to improve efficiencies and to generate more income. Projects will need to demonstrate how they are helping to overcome a rural issue or barrier they face in order to grow
  • Green Technology
Support businesses to invest in energy efficient and low carbon technologies. This means businesses can invest in green technology that will improve their carbon footprint. Businesses could also use this funding to develop their own green technology which can be used to improve the carbon footprint of their business and/or other businesses
  • Rural Tourism
Capital grants to develop local tourism attractions, facilities, or infrastructure to enhance the rural visitor economy and increase opportunities to attract visitors to rural areas. Applicants must be based in rural areas in the Harborough district which can be identified in the grant policy. Before applying, businesses must review the full policy which includes the eligibility criteria. Applications will open on Tuesday 26 March 2024 and close on Friday 27 September 2024. Cllr Galton, Deputy Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “Building on the success of the scheme last year, we are delighted to use funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund to support rural businesses in the Harborough district with growth and development. We want rural businesses to do well so I encourage them to go online and apply.” The grants are being managed and distributed by Harborough District Council using funding received from the government through the Rural England Prosperity Fund which is an extension of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This project has been allocated £230,000 in year two from the Rural England Prosperity Fund, a top-up to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Construction consultancy founder appointed as NTU Alumni and Industry Fellow

Tess Egginton
-
0
Construction consultancy founder appointed as NTU Alumni and Industry Fellow

The founder partner at multi-disciplinary consultancy company Focus Consultants has been appointed as a Nottingham Trent University Alumni and Industry Fellow.

Kevin Osbon is using the opportunity to share details of how he has built a close relationship with his former university and hopes to encourage others to follow in his footsteps.

He believes that more professionals in their 50s could be sharing their expertise and knowledge with the younger generation.

And, rather than retiring early, he is urging them to consider opportunities for working with their local universities instead.

Kevin studied as a slightly mature student at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in the late 1980s during the period that it transitioned from Trent Polytechnic to NTU, gaining a BSc Hons in Construction Management in 1990.

Four years later he set up Focus Consultants in his dining room in Beeston, Nottingham.

Since then, the multi-disciplinary company has grown to have offices in Nottingham, Leicester and London with a £6 million annual fee turnover managing over £300 million of construction projects each year – becoming a leading consultancy in the construction, sustainability, cultural and regeneration sectors.

For the past eight years Kevin has been revisiting the corridors of Nottingham Trent University, this time as a lecturer, having gradually stepped away from frontline consultancy following a structured Management Buy In (MBI) of Focus Consultants. He remains majority shareholder and operates as joint chairperson, now largely overseeing the business.

Although still retaining an interest and a role at Focus, his reduced hours, year on year, gave him the opportunity to teach construction management, quantity surveying and construction commercial management, contract administration and control and finance to NTU undergraduates.

He hopes that by highlighting his professional journey, he can encourage others who have a wealth of experience in their respective careers to find a way to share that knowledge with the younger generation.

“When you come to the point of stepping away from frontline consultancy or construction work then all of that intellectual capital should not be lost,” explains Kevin, 59. “The over 50s have vast resources. I have basically had another career in the eight years that I have been working with NTU – gradually increasing my involvement from teaching to writing papers, contributing to books and various other initiatives. It’s been extremely stimulating.

“I never thought I would become a published author or be part of a team that won an internationally significant award for an academic paper, but that’s what has happened as a result of taking on a teaching role at NTU.

“Some over 50s took early retirement after the pandemic and the government is now encouraging them to return to the workplace. This age group has a lot of wisdom and experience to share with the younger generation. They have a lot to give. In my view, the over 50s are a vastly untapped resource.

“There are stacks of people out there like me, who have had a successful first career but who could go on to have a second successful career in teaching, mentoring or training.”

Not only has Kevin’s latest position benefited him personally, it has also brought a number of benefits both to Focus Consultants and to NTU. The University has been able to tap into the knowledge and resources of the Focus team, while Focus has been able to recruit skilled graduates to join the business. The partnership between the two organisations has recently been formalised in a three-year framework looking to provide deliverables such as:

  • Knowledge exchange and building links with industry
  • Provision of lecturers and guest lecturers
  • Fostering talent and providing workplace opportunities for students and graduates
  • Providing support and expertise for the new Centre for Sustainable Construction and Retrofit
  • Collaboration on project work to facilitate hands-on student work experience
  • Contributions to research initiatives leading to published works

Kevin added: “Little did I know that when I studied at Nottingham Trent University in the late 1980s that I would return to the University as a lecturer towards the end of my career and become involved in research and various initiatives leading to a strategic partnership between my consultancy and NTU.

“I’ve enjoyed a very fulfilling career in consultancy and I’m very proud of the business that myself, my partners and my colleagues have built up over the past 30 years. It feels good to be giving something back to help future generations and it’s also been extremely positive for me personally to have had a second career teaching in my 50s.

“I would encourage the over 50s to consider ways that they can share their knowledge and skills. It’s certainly something that I am very pleased to have done and would recommend it to others, if it’s relevant and appropriate for them.”

Planning & Design Practice form electrifying partnership with Down to Earth Derby

Tess Egginton
-
0
Planning & Design Practice form electrifying partnership with Down to Earth Derby
Planning & Design Practice (PDP) have joined Derby’s nature-based regeneration journey by partnering with Down to Earth Derby (DTE) as part of their Corporate Sponsorship programme. With links to Cornwall’s eco-focused Eden Project, DTE describe themselves as an independent catalyst for nature-based regeneration. PDP were requested to bring their design expertise to spruce up the toilet area of DTE’s city-centre community garden and event space, Electric Daisy. Launched in June 2023 Electric Daisy is: “A botanical garden meets, late night cocktail bar, in this commercially driven concept.” PDP were able to use their DIY and creative skills to transform a utilitarian looking Portaloo into something which is much more in keeping with the tranquil garden vibe that DTE are trying to achieve. On a cold March morning six members of staff arrived with a plan, three inside the toilet decorating and three outside constructing cladding and trellis, upcycling old sheds and bits of salvaged wood. The design inside the toilet was created using acrylic paints and now hand painted electric daisies adorn the walls. The woodwork was painted black to modernise and the overall effect was much fresher than before and ready to welcome guests when the venue reopens soon. DTE’s business strategy and scalability lead Ross Nicholson said: “Big shout out to Planning & Design Practice for becoming a corporate sponsor at Electric Daisy and for a great day converting our shabby toilet block (inside and out) into a shed (kind of!) which blends much better with the community garden and events space. “A brilliant day’s work, which means we can now crack on with letting nature do its thing – growing stuff up, in and around it.” As well as working on the relaunch of Electric Daisy, Down to Earth Derby have also been commissioned by Wavensmere Homes to create an expansive community garden within its Nightingale Quarter development, on the site of the former Derbyshire Royal Infirmary. The £40,000 pilot project will see an interactive garden and allotment space created on the 18.5-acres and is planned to be unveiled in late spring. If successful the approach will be rolled out across Wavensmere’s city-wide portfolio, creating magnets for nature, wildlife, and people across the city.

Marketing stalwart retires after 35 years

Tess Egginton
-
0
Marketing stalwart retires after 35 years
Simple Marketing Consultancy (SMC) has announced the retirement of its founding director, Bev Cook after 35+ years in marketing roles in the East Midlands. Succeeding her is Elliot Cook who will continue to manage their client portfolio. Bev began her career in the automotive sector before moving into professional services marketing for prominent top tier firms. Upon joining Stoy Hayward she was quickly thrown into the deep end when a week later their merger with BDO Binder Hamlin was announced. She went on to oversee growth of the merged firm from 8 partners and 70 staff to 14 partners and over 200 staff, with the successful launch of the BDO Stoy Hayward Leicester Office. This kick started her consultancy career and roles at Bland Bankart (now Gallaghers Insurance), Faithful & Gould, Flint Bishop, Grant Thornton, and Tenon followed. Whilst at Tenon the firm won the Marketing Society Star Award for best professional services brand and the European Managing Partners Forum Award for best brand in practice. Following the merger with RSM, Bev left Tenon and founded SMC with a business model to provide outsourced marketing support to family and owner managed businesses on a monthly retainer basis. Her son Elliot Cook joined the business in 2016 having provided remote support whilst studying a BSc in Business Administration whilst on a 4 year football scholarship in the USA. Based in Radcliffe on Trent, Nottingham, SMC has advised a number of the region’s award winning family or owner managed businesses such as Blueprint Interiors, Alpha Rail, Purpose Media, Finch Consulting, Lesley Cree Opticians, Mather Jamie and Tecserv UK. Most clients have doubled profits and enjoyed significant brand exposure as a result of the advice and guidance provided. Commenting on her retirement Bev said: “I was really privileged to be mentored by some of our region’s leading professional advisers. They encouraged me to get first-hand experience listening to owner managers and understanding their issues. Thanks to them I was able to differentiate myself as a marketer and also pass this knowledge to Elliot. I firmly believe that as my successor our clients will continue to thrive.” Business partner Elliot Cook added: “Over the past decade, I’ve been fortunate to have an exceptional business partner by my side. With her extensive experience in offering practical marketing advice to business owners, she has been an invaluable mentor and role model. “After nearly four decades in the industry, she has earned the right to hang up her boots and embrace a more leisurely lifestyle. I am immensely honoured to be assuming leadership of the business in her place and eagerly anticipate the exciting future ahead for SMC.” Bev plans to spend her retirement focusing on getting fitter, looking after her Dad and playing golf more. She hopes to continue representing Notts County Ladies Golf Association and will also continue to arrange the annual Three Bunkers Golf Challenge in aid of local charity Big C Little C which has so far raised over £40,000 for local Cancer Research and NSPCC projects.

Council takes ownership of hotel in Sleaford

Tess Egginton
-
0
Council takes ownership of hotel in Sleaford
In a move which will secure a prestigious hotel business, protect jobs and broaden its economic and social benefits, North Kesteven District Council has taken ownership of the Carre Arms Hotel in Sleaford. The purchase of both the hotel and its operating company has been finalised following a decision by Full Council on February 29, 2024, with Members agreeing that there were significant advantages to the community in protecting this key local infrastructure asset, which could otherwise be lost as a viable business. Acquisition of the Carre Arms also assists the Council significantly in advancing its ambitions around expanding the local visitor economy – being one of only two hotels in the immediate area with more than 10 rooms – and the regeneration of Sleaford Town Centre. The move also protects an historic, landmark building and introduces opportunity to enhance its viability as an accommodation, conference and functions provider. Council Chief Executive Ian Fytche said the realisation of this opportunity to move forward a number of the Council’s strategic aims around Sleaford’s regeneration and the potential for growing the local visitor economy was something the Council could not afford to pass over. “For more than 12 years we have recognised the need for expanded hotel provision in order to meet existing and growing demand for business and visitor accommodation, but that is something that the private sector has not been able to provide,” he said. “That reality, allied with the broader aspirations of the Sleaford Masterplan and the Council’s wider strategic interests in redevelopment opportunities in the immediate area of the Carre Arms, have led to the Council taking this proactive intervention. “It is an action entirely consistent with legal and financial frameworks and will ultimately support the Council in both delivering on its objectives and maintaining its own ongoing viability, just as its established Lafford Homes housing company does. “Customers of the Carre Arms will see no immediate difference as there is no change to the operations of the hotel or the circumstances of the employees. “Along with the retiring owners, who have run a successful business for more than 20 years, we thank them for their goodwill both now and over the years in providing a much-needed multipurpose venue in the heart of Sleaford.”
1...181182183...530Page 182 of 530