Armsons Barlow to transform Derby College Group’s campus

Tess Egginton
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Armsons Barlow to transform Derby College Group’s campus
Derby-based project managers, construction cost consultants and building surveyors Armsons Barlow are helping to bring an education facility at Derby College Group’s campus to life. Work has already begun on the new East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) building which is located at the college’s Roundhouse Campus on Pride Park, expanding the current footprint by adding 1,100 square meters to house the new facilities. The EMIoT facility, which will be net zero, will feature state-of-the art classrooms and collaborative workspaces, providing students with a hands-on and immersive learning experience. The cutting-edge technology will allow teaching to be carried out on-site or anywhere in the world. It aims to address the increasing demand for skilled professionals and in-technology related fields and will equip students with future-ready skills necessary to meet the evolving demands of the workforce. A groundbreaking ceremony, which took place recently at the college, marked the official start of construction on the state-of-the-art EMIoT facility. Armsons Barlow are working alongside architects YMD Boon on the project, along with structural engineers JPL; M&E engineers, Hba Consulting; consultants Thornton Firkin and contractors Davlyn Construction. Armsons Barlow will be working alongside the design team to provide project management services for the project. The project is a partnership between Derby College Group, Loughborough University, Loughborough College and University of Derby, working with key industry players such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota Manufacturing UK, Alstom, and Bloc Digital. The development is set to be completed and ready for opening in September 2024. Sally Walters, director of Armsons Barlow, said: “We are thrilled to be a part of this transformative project which will shape the future of education and training in the East Midlands. “Our role as project managers underlines our commitment to ensuring that this groundbreaking initiative is successfully executed to bring together education, industry, and cutting-edge technology.”

Dow Schofield Watts’ corporate finance team expands again

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Dow Schofield Watts’ corporate finance team expands again

Dow Schofield Watts (DSW) has appointed an additional Partner in its expanding Midlands corporate finance team. Ryan Shields joins from Grant Thornton in Milton Keynes where he was an M&A Director.

Ryan is the fifth and final founding member to join the team, with his arrival having been delayed due to contractual commitments. He joins the existing Partners – Harry Walker and Shaf Bheda, together with Director Fahim Kassam and Associate Directors Daniel Chouciño and Lucy Fairclough, bringing the total number in the team to six.

Ryan will be focusing on building Dow Schofield Watts’ corporate finance presence in Milton Keynes and Northampton, an area where he has a strong track record.

He has spent his career at Grant Thornton, joining in 2012 and gaining his accountancy qualifications, then moving into the corporate finance team and rising through the ranks. Working with entrepreneurs, owner-managers, large corporates, management teams, and private equity he has advised on a wide range of transactions.

His sweet spot is selling privately owned businesses with a value between £10m to £50m with significant experience across the business support services (built environment and energy), industrials, and technology sectors.

“I have loved my years at Grant Thornton, but now is the time to move on and be part of building a new challenger boutique focusing on the mid-market where we all feel there is a distinct opportunity,” said Ryan.

“The DSW Corporate Finance team in the Midlands has made no secret of its plans to invest in expanding strategically to bring its signature Partner-led approach to Milton Keynes and Northampton. DSW has a highly regarded and recognised brand and corporate finance offering, which I’m thoroughly looking forward to playing a role in.”

Recent significant deals include advising private equity house Freshstream Investment Partners on their investment in Project Better Energy, the sale of Motor Parts Direct to South African listed Motus, the sale of Miers Construction Products to SIG PLC and the sale of Oysta Technology to The Access Group.

Harry Walker added: “Ryan is the last piece of the current jigsaw for DSW Corporate Finance in the Midlands. He is an established and highly regarded corporate finance operator, and his focus on Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire strengthens our geographical reach in the South Midlands and into the Central and East markets.

“On top of that, Ryan enhances our mid-market offering, being another partner with experience in delivering some of the region’s most significant private equity and owner-managed deals in recent years.

“We’re excited to have assembled a roster of dealmakers with over 60 years’ experience between them and are looking forward to building the business together with our clients and fellow Midlands professionals.”

Hopkins Solicitors expands their legal support into Derbyshire

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Hopkins Solicitors expands their legal support into Derbyshire
Hopkins Solicitors Ltd has announced the acquisition of Miles & Cash Solicitors. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in the growth and expansion of Hopkins Solicitors Ltd’s footprint into Derbyshire’s legal community. By joining forces with Miles & Cash, Hopkins Solicitors Ltd strengthens its position as a provider of legal services, offering an expanded range of expertise and resources to Heanor’s local residents and small businesses. Miles & Cash’s Managing Partner, Chris Sedgwick, said: “Our search for a law firm to transform the business was easy, having known a number of the Hopkins staff personally, we knew they held the same values and high levels of quality service. “In addition, we knew that during their previous acquisitions of other local law firms they ensured that existing clients knew that the business was still there to support them, and that the employees felt secure and supported on their future career growth.” “We are excited about the opportunities that this acquisition presents for our clients and our team,” said Chris. “Joining Hopkins Solicitors Ltd allows us to continue providing the highest level of service to our clients while offering expanded resources and expertise across a wider spectrum of legal areas. We look forward to a seamless integration and continued success as part of the Hopkins Solicitors family.” Miles & Cash Solicitors has built a solid reputation for its expertise in Children and Care Law, serving a diverse client base with integrity and professionalism. This team including solicitors Chris Sedgwick (Partner) and Lucy Fisher (Associate) have stayed onboard further expanding Hopkins’ already extensive and reputable Children Law and Care Team. Martyn Knox, Managing Director of Hopkins Solicitors, said: “We look forward to getting to know and support the members of Heanor’s local community, both as clients and as future employees. We believe that our local expertise and our honest commitment to high standards is what allows us to provide a personal approach to our clients, and truly make a difference in improving people’s lives.” In March 2024 interior and exterior renovations began on the existing Miles & Cash office which is located in Heanor’s town centre just north of Derby, between Ripley and Ilkeston. Once complete, the office will be expanding and housing at least 8 solicitors offering a full range of legal support services including private family law, children & care law, residential conveyancing, wills & probate, civil litigation, personal injury & medical negligence, employment law, company commercial and commercial property law. The acquisition of Miles & Cash Solicitors underscores Hopkins Solicitors Ltd’s commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional results for its clients.

Work starts on new Towcester special school

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Work starts on new Towcester special school
Construction works have started on the development of a new special school located in Towcester which will provide much-needed places for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Construction firm Wilmott Dixon are underway with the development of the new school, called Tiffield Academy, which is set to open in autumn 2025 and will cater for children and young people between the ages of four to 18 with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC), speech, language and communication needs (SLCN), as well as those with severe learning difficulties (SLD). The school will be designed to physically accommodate 250 pupils, although it will operate to an admissions number of 230, with the remaining 20 places expected to be filled through emergency placements or other extenuating factors. Commemorating the occasion with a ground-breaking ceremony, stakeholders came together to mark the start of the project, which will take shape over the next 18 months. Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, Education and Skills at West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) was joined by representatives Wilmott Dixon who are delivering the project and Greenwood Academies Trust who will be responsible for running the new school. This work follows planning approval in January this year for a three-storey building that is specially designed to create an environment for children to learn, grow and thrive. The school will have general and practical teaching spaces, a lift providing access to the upper floor, with each key stage next to a calm room, intervention room and a group room. There will be two halls proposed to provide physical activities, music, drama and assembly spaces. The Early Years phase will be co-located with need specific sensory rooms and separate dining spaces for primary and secondary pupils. Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, Education, said: “It is positive to see work underway at the Tiffield site in preparation for opening in Autumn 2025 as we know these additional spaces are very much needed and will make a significant difference to the children and young people who will attend the school, as well as their families. This school will provide an engaging environment and excellent teaching and learning facilities to help our students learn, develop and connect. “This is a step forward and is part of our wider programme of creating 600 new specialist places locally as we continue to see a high demand for SEND places to meet the needs of our children and young people. “We know this is not a solution for all and that there remain challenges with demand in other areas. We are working hard to provide support in all areas across our SEND offer and are working with schools and learning providers to embed a graduated response to ensure children’s needs are identified as early as possible and met in the best way. We are also reviewing the needs of all children to understand if and when additional specialist provision is needed.” Spokesperson for Wilmot Dixon said: “We would like to thank West Northamptonshire Council for providing us with the opportunity to be a part of this new prestigious SEND project. As a result of the collaborative approach between each stakeholder, we are well underway to delivering this exciting new facility. Our goal is to assist West Northamptonshire council and the Greenwood Academy Trust in creating a positive legacy for the trust and the wider community for many years to come.”

Vistry Group completes deal to deliver 133 affordable homes for Rushden

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Vistry Group completes deal to deliver 133 affordable homes for Rushden

Vistry Group, the provider of affordable mixed-tenure homes, has sealed a £34 million deal to bring 133 affordable family homes to Rushden in partnership with Platform Housing Group.

The site, which was formerly owned by Co-op, benefits from full planning permission and work is expected to start in summer 2024. This new development will consist of one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom houses and maisonettes, including air source heat pumps to reduce carbon emission, with thoughtfully designed green spaces to create a new area which will integrate well with the local community. As well as new homes, the development will also mean more than £700,000 of investment in services to benefit the whole community. All the homes will be manufactured off site using open panel timber frames from the Vistry Works East Midlands factory in Bardon. Building homes using this modern method of construction (MMC) reduces the carbon footprint of every property. Each home built using these panels emits 14,460kg CO2e less than a traditional brick-and-block house. Andy Reynolds, managing director of Vistry South East Midlands, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Platform Housing Group on this 100% affordable development which will not only meet the housing needs of the community but create beautiful green spaces which blend with the local environment. “We’re excited to be a part of Northampton’s growth and to be entrusted with the build of these much-needed new homes which will contribute to the unique character of the area as well as releasing over £700,000 of investment in local services to create a thriving and sustainable community.” Ann Taylor, director at Savills, acting on behalf of Co-op, said: “We are delighted to see this site complete and come forwards for development. The land has been vacant for a long time, therefore the new homes, the significant S106 contributions into the wider community, and the associated new jobs are all a welcome benefit of development. It is exciting to finally see this scheme become a reality.” Michael Baggett, director of land and partnerships at Platform Housing Group, added: “Strong partnerships that truly work for all parties will be the key to unlocking opportunities and delivering affordable housing at scale. At Platform we are determined to keep building homes and working with Vistry we are proud to be offering so many people the chance to have a place they can call home.” The parties’ professional advisors were Rachel Saint of Paris Smith acting for Co-op, Patrick Aide of Freeths acting for Vistry Group and Gabor Taller acting for Platform Housing Group.

Fluid Ideas creates drive-in Derby studio to rival London and Manchester

Michael Fisher
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Fluid Ideas creates drive-in Derby studio to rival London and Manchester
Creative agency Fluid Ideas has unveiled the latest phase of its expansion – a drive-in studio for filming, photography, recording and events. The studio, called Flux, features an infinity cove, a fully-functional kitchen set and an audio booth for recording voiceovers and podcasts. Fluid has invested a six-figure sum to transform a 1,300sq ft building next to its headquarters in a former cotton mill at Darley Abbey Mills, a World Heritage Site on the outskirts of Derby. Jamie Hovell, an associate partner at Fluid, said the new multipurpose facility – in the old Engine House – gives the Midlands a genuine alternative to Manchester and London for filming, photoshoots and recordings. “The combination of the drive-in feature, the infinity cove with overhead lighting rig and the kitchen set means we have a distinctive and really versatile space which our team will utilise for client projects,” he said. “In just 10 weeks, we’ve transformed a vacant and unloved industrial building to create a real point of difference for Fluid and the region, and one which we are confident will appeal to our clients and the wider creative community. “It’s a spacious open studio with plenty of space for lighting and cameras. The infinity cove is brightly lit and curves into the floor, so there are no corners or shadows. It can easily be repainted according to the colour needs of each client. “We’d been scoping out places to create a facility of this kind for some time, and visited a number of potential sites before the Engine House became available. It’s the perfect location, and seeing the new space we had envisioned for so long transformed from a blank canvas and spring into life over the weeks has been a real joy.” Jamie added: “We see Flux becoming a hub in the Midlands. Until now, people have had to travel to Manchester or London for such a facility. “Now there is somewhere closer to home which businesses, art directors, marketing teams and other agencies can hire for their own projects. It can also be used for off-site meetings, product launches, get-togethers and workshops.”

Rolls-Royce to invest in Derby

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Rolls-Royce to invest in Derby
Rolls-Royce is investing in its assembly, test and shop visit capacity in Derby and Dahlewitz, Germany to address growing long-term demand for new civil large engines and improve customer aftermarket support services for its global Trent fleet.
As outlined at last year’s Capital Markets Day, Rolls-Royce expects an annual increase of 7 – 9% of Rolls-Royce powered aircraft in service for the remainder of the decade and forecasts engine flying hours to reach 120 – 130% mid-term compared to 2019 levels. To prepare for this growth, Rolls-Royce is investing £55m and recruiting more than 300 front-line operations roles, split between its operations in Derby and Dahlewitz. About half of the investment and about two thirds of the jobs will be created in Derby. The investments include expansion of engine build capacity in Derby to deliver over 40% more new engines per year from 2025 – compared with average deliveries over the last 10 years – and increase of services capacity. These investments follow last month’s announcement to invest £1bn in a continuous improvement programme for the Trent engine family. Rob Watson, President – Civil Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, said: “These latest investment in our engine build and services capacity is further proof of our commitment to deliver both excellent products and services to our global customer base. We are ready to support our continued growth in the widebody market – delivering even greater availability, reliability, and efficiency.”

Space firm behind ‘shoebox-sized laboratory’ comes to Leicester

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Space firm behind ‘shoebox-sized laboratory’ comes to Leicester
The creators of a shoebox-sized laboratory which enables experiments to be carried out in space are now working with Space Park Leicester. Frontier Space Technologies’ SpaceLab is designed to host numerous experiments in microgravity and the firm aims to launch its first on-orbit demonstrations next year. The technology will make space research and development far more accessible and affordable to industry and the firm’s logistics and technology innovation will cut the time it takes businesses to get their research into space from around five years to as little as a month for Frontier Space Technologies’ repeat customers. This has huge potential for a variety of sectors, including the pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries, as they will not have to wait as long to see a potential return on their investment into space research. Frontier Space Technologies has also become the latest company to be accepted on the European Space Agency – Business Incubation Centre for the United Kingdom (ESA-BIC UK) programme at Space Park Leicester, the University of Leicester’s pioneering £100 million science and innovation park. Frontier Space Technologies Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Mateusz Zalasiewicz said: “The market we’re targeting is rapidly growing – space has only recently turned commercial, and commercial space biotech has huge potential for human therapeutic innovation, so this is an exciting time for us. “The advice and support we receive from ESA-BIC was one of the big draws of the programme; we’ve already attended very useful events and we’re keen to start using all the technical support available to us. “We’re delighted to join the eco-system at Space Park Leicester. Leicester is the perfect place for us because it has a growing space economy and there are a lot of life sciences and pharmaceutical companies in the city.” Carrying out experiments in space is attractive to business because of its microgravity. Mateusz explained: “If you want to research or manufacture new medicines you often use protein crystals during the process. “On Earth, if you try to make large crystals they tend to be imperfect due to gravity gradients causing sedimentation. The crystals you get in microgravity tend to be much larger and much purer, and that’s a major research benefit. “It’s the same for other industries – if you want to manufacture semi-conductors crystal of an extremely high purity you can do that in microgravity to a better degree. “It really depends on the industry, and what you’re trying to do, but in general the absence of gravity, and also access to space background radiation for certain things, is extremely useful and you can’t really replicate that on Earth.” Fellow Co-founder and CEO Dr Aqeel Shamsul added: “Lots of businesses aren’t aware you can do this in space or they think it’s going to be expensive. The paradigm shift is that this is all becoming much more accessible now and access to this unique environment can significantly improve products and processes here on Earth.” Vinay Patel, Head of Commercial and Innovation at Space Park Leicester, said: “Frontier Space Technologies is playing a vital role in opening up space experimentation to industry. “We’re very excited about the work they’re doing and are thrilled they’ve joined us in Leicester.”

East Midlands manufacturers see mixed start of the year

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East Midlands manufacturers see mixed start of the year

East Midlands manufacturers are seeing a mixed picture as they start the year but confidence is remaining robust despite the UK economy remaining weak overall.

However, Make UK is forecasting growth for manufacturing of just 0.1% in 2024 and 0.8% in 2025 which is weaker growth than the economy overall.

The findings come in the Q4 Manufacturing Outlook survey published by Make UK and business advisory firm BDO. According to the survey, output in the East Midlands was negative in the first few months of the year. However, looking forward both output and orders are set to pick up substantially in the second quarter of the year with orders in the next three months especially strong.

This positive picture is reflected in strong recruitment by firms and a jump in investment intentions to the highest level of any English region, which may be due to the full expensing policy announced by the Chancellor in the Autumn Statement. 

Chris Corkan, Region Director for the Midlands at Make UK, said: “After the economic and political shocks of the last few years there is now strong confidence among manufacturers in the East Midlands, despite the mixed picture. While growth in the economy is not exactly supercharged, the positive announcements in the Autumn Statement and Budget can at least allow them to plan with more certainty for the future.”

Jonathan Lanes, Head of Manufacturing at BDO in the Midlands, added: “Manufacturers in the East Midlands have continued to show their ability to overcome wave after wave of challenges, but they cannot continue to do this indefinitely without some more long-term support from the Government.

“Despite the challenges faced across the region, demand for labour remains strong with investment intentions higher than in any other English region. That said, the next few months will be critical to the sector within the East Midlands.” 

Administrators appointed to Robinsons Caravans group companies

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Administrators appointed to Robinsons Caravans group companies

Ryan Grant and Chris Pole from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators to Golden Castle Caravans Limited and Robinsons Caravans Limited on 11 March 2024 and 14 March 2024.

Both companies are part of the Robinsons Caravans group which retails caravans and motorhomes from dealerships located across the Midlands and the South West.

Based in Twigworth, Gloucester, Golden Castle Caravans Limited sells new and used caravans and motorhomes, including from some of the UK’s leading manufacturers.

Robinsons Caravans Limited sells new and used caravans and motorhomes from two sites in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, and Worksop, Nottinghamshire.

While certain companies across the Robinsons Caravans group have been historically profitable, others have experienced lower than expected sales volumes in the wake of the cost-of-living crisis and pressure on household disposable incomes. This in turn served to place financial pressure on the wider group, which in recent times had become increasingly unsustainable.

As a result of these mounting pressures, the directors sought to undertake a review of their investment, refinance and sale options. When it became clear that a solvent solution could not be found, they took the decision to seek the appointment of administrators.

Immediately following their appointment, the joint administrators sold the business and assets of Golden Castle Caravans Limited to Gloucestershire Leisure Limited, a connected party by virtue of one of the directors. Seventeen members of staff have transferred to the purchaser as part of the transaction.

Separately, following their appointment to Robinsons Caravans Limited, the joint administrators sold certain of the business and its assets to a Storebon Holdings Limited, part of the Couplands Caravans group. Nine members of staff based at the Robinsons Caravans site in Worksop have transferred to the purchaser as part of the transaction.

The Robinsons Caravans site in Chesterfield, however, is not included in the transaction and as a result, will close with immediate effect. Consequently, 16 members of staff have been made redundant. The joint administrators will be providing support to all those impacted by redundancy, including assisting with claims to the Redundancy Payments Service.

Ryan Grant, managing director at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “These have been testing times for many businesses across the leisure sector as a result of high cost inflation and fragile consumer confidence. We are pleased to have secured these two transactions which safeguard the future of Golden Castle Caravans and the Robinsons Caravans operations in Worksop.”

Leicester College re-opens Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering facilities following multi-million investment

Michael Fisher
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Leicester College re-opens Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering facilities following multi-million investment
Leicester College will formally open its Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering facilities at the Abbey Park campus following an exciting multi-million-pound investment in resources, equipment and teaching spaces. This will enable the College to provide industry standard technical training to students and employers across the region. Leicester College is one of the largest providers of advanced manufacturing and engineering education in Leicester and Leicestershire. The project was supported by capital funding via the T Level capital fund. The upgraded facilities will improve the practical and technical experience for existing and future students, studying for T Level qualifications in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering) and Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, together with a range of other programmes, including new Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in Engineering. They will also enable the College to continue to support regional employers to develop the skills and knowledge needed to develop the engineering workforce of the future. Verity Hancock, Principal of Leicester College, said: “I’m so excited about this huge refurbishment. Our hard-working engineering students and staff deserve the superb facilities and equipment that have been developed. The College is grateful to the Department for Education for their investment and to everyone – designers, architects and builders – who have made this happen.”

Neupulse secures funding to advance world’s first wearable device to tackle Tourettes Syndrome

Michael Fisher
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Neupulse secures funding to advance world’s first wearable device to tackle Tourettes Syndrome
Neupulse has secured funding to advance the world’s first wearable device aimed at tackling Tourettes Syndrome (TS) and other tic disorders towards commercialisation.  Neupulse’s recently finalised working prototype stimulates the median nerve in the wrist, reducing the frequency of tics in individuals with TS, a condition that is thought to affect as much as 2 per cent of the world’s child population and 1 per cent of the overall population.  Clinical trials in 2023 showed the Neupulse device can reduce tics by over 25 percentile. Neupulse has secured a £2.5 million seed stage investment led by Scottish impact investor Eos Advisory, alongside a consortium including US-based investors, as Neupulse moves towards regulatory approval phase in the UK, Europe, and the USA. Tourettes Syndrome is a neurological condition characterised by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalisations known as tics.  The causes of TS and other tic disorders remain unclear, but genetic and environmental factors are known to play a role.  TS can cause significant pain and discomfort for those affected, through the hundreds of daily involuntary and often violent motions, in addition to impacting social integration in schooling, work, and wider society. Paul Cable, CEO of Neupulse, said: “Tourettes Syndrome is a debilitating condition, severely so in many cases and to the detriment of quality of life, and our mission is to drastically reduce tics with an easy-to-use wearable device that will be transformative to the lives of affected individuals.  Our device is an alternative to the current provision of treatment for TS, which is centred around medication and cognitive behaviour therapy.  The goal is for Neupulse to be available to the TS community globally in the years ahead.” Ana Stewart, Partner, Eos Advisory, said: “Eos was set up to back science-based companies and founders developing technologies that can positively impact the lives of people across the globe.  Whilst we are focussed on Scottish startups, when one of our investors brought the amazing work of Neupulse to our attention we realised that there was a huge opportunity to add value, well beyond the investment, to help bring this device to market and improve the lives of people affected by TS and related conditions.  What’s even more exciting, is how the nascent technology could be beneficial for many other neural conditions in the future.”

Local housebuilder set to bring 93 new homes to Nottingham

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Local housebuilder set to bring 93 new homes to Nottingham

A local housebuilder is set to bring 93 homes to Fairham, in Nottingham.

Work is set to begin for Redrow East Midlands, who will be joining the Fairham scheme with planning now officially granted by Rushcliffe Borough Council.

Dovecote Grange will include a mix of private and affordable homes for those in the community, including a mix of three, four and five bedrooms on offer from the housebuilder’s Heritage Collection.

The properties will also be part of Redrow’s new Eco Electric generation, featuring air source heat pumps and underfloor heating as standard – designed to significantly reduce energy bills.

Dovecote Grange will form part of the wider 606-acre Fairham site, which will see a new neighbourhood created in the region, bringing new homes, employment opportunities, as well as a new sense community to this area of Nottingham. There will be shared foot and cycling paths, £100m invested in new infrastructure and 200 acres of open space as part of the scheme.

Ryan O’Sullivan, Sales Director at Redrow East Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to have been granted planning permission for this exciting new development. Dovecote Grange will provide much-needed new homes in the area and we’re thrilled to become part of the wider Fairham development.

“Here at Redrow East Midlands, we’re passionate about prioritising sustainability, which is why each home we build will be part of our Eco Electric generation, future proofed with air source heat pumps, underfloor heating and improved insulation.

“We anticipate homes will be incredibly popular, with lots of people looking to Fairham as a vibrant new community with positive prospects for the local area. Now that work is set to begin on site, we’d encourage those looking to purchase a home to register their interest as soon as possible.”

Construction underway on new further and higher education campus in Skegness

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Construction underway on new further and higher education campus in Skegness
Construction has started on the new campus for Skegness TEC which will deliver further and higher education courses for the residents of Skegness and surrounding communities. The new campus, supported by a £14 million government-funded Connected Coast Town Deal, is set to make a huge impact in the community, offering further and higher education tailored towards vocational skills training to meet local needs. Having gained planning permission from East Lindsey District Council last year, works are now underway on the Wainfleet Road site, led by contractors Hobson and Porter. Ann Hardy, CEO of TEC Partnership, said: “I am delighted that construction is underway on our new Skegness Learning Campus. It is going to be great to see our designs and plans become a reality. The new learning campus will bring with it a broad curriculum and new opportunities for the community of Skegness.” Chris Baron, Chair of Connected Coast, said: “It is fantastic to see work now underway on the Learning Campus, a development set to be genuinely transformational for local people, offering access to training in much-needed subjects in Skegness. “The Learning Campus is Connected Coast’s flagship Town Deal, and it has the potential to be an economic game changer for the area, allowing people to gain the skills and knowledge they need to get the jobs they want. “The start of work is a hugely significant milestone, and I look forward to seeing this exciting new facility come out of the ground over the coming months, ready to welcome students in 2025.” The campus will in turn bring enhanced employment opportunities and a broader range of curriculum tailored to economic changes and demands. Over the coming years, the project aims to help over 1,000 residents into employment, supporting growth in the local economy and enriching the community.

The best ways to support and develop your employees this year

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The best ways to support and develop your employees this year
The importance of supporting and developing employees has never been more obvious. For businesses in the UK, where competition for top talent is fierce and the pace of change is so fast, creating a culture that prioritises employee development is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. This year, as companies push to move through the complexities of the post-pandemic world, focusing on effective strategies to support and grow their workforce is absolutely crucial.  Create a culture of continuous learning The ground floor of any initiative to support and develop employees is the cultivation of a culture that understands the importance of continuous learning. Things move so quickly and the ability to adapt and grow is crucial for both individual and organisational success. A culture of learning encourages curiosity, innovation, and resilience, enabling employees to meet the challenges of their roles and contribute more effectively to the organisation’s goals. Implementing a learning culture:
  • Encourage learning at all levels: Lead by example. Management should actively engage in learning opportunities, demonstrating the value placed on continuous personal and professional development.
  • Personalise learning pathways: Recognise that employees have varied learning styles and career aspirations. Work with them to create personalised learning plans that align with their goals and the needs of the business.
  • Leverage technology: Utilise online platforms and e-learning tools to provide flexible, accessible learning opportunities. Many platforms offer courses ranging from technical skills to leadership development.
Invest in training Investing in employee training is a direct way to support their development and enhance the skillset within your organisation. Training can take many forms, from formal courses and workshops to on-the-job training and mentoring programs. Effective training not only boosts employee performance but also increases job satisfaction and engagement, as it demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to its growth. Strategies for effective training:
  • Assess needs regularly: Conduct regular skills audits and consult with employees to identify training needs within your team. This ensures that training initiatives are targeted and relevant.
  • Diverse training methods: Incorporate a mix of training methods to cater to different learning preferences. This might include in-person workshops, online courses, webinars, and peer-to-peer learning. For example, if you’re looking for training for the leaders in your company, look for leadership skills training that suits different stages. Impact Factory can tailor their skills courses to suit your needs. 
  • Measure impact: Evaluate the effectiveness of training programmes by measuring improvements in performance and feedback from participants. This can help refine future training initiatives and demonstrate ROI to stakeholders.
Provide constructive feedback Feedback is a powerful tool for development when delivered effectively. It provides employees with insight into their performance, highlighting strengths and identifying areas for improvement. Constructive feedback, delivered in a supportive and respectful manner, can motivate employees to develop their skills and contribute more effectively to their teams. Delivering constructive feedback:
  • Regular check-ins: Don’t wait for annual reviews to provide feedback. Regular one-to-ones offer timely insights into performance and development needs, fostering a more responsive and dynamic growth environment.
  • Focus on development: Frame feedback in terms of development opportunities. Discuss actionable steps for improvement and offer support in achieving these goals.
  • Create a two-way dialogue: Encourage employees to share their perspectives and aspirations. This not only helps tailor development efforts but also reinforces their role as active participants in their growth journey.
These strategies represent foundational elements in the endeavour to support and develop employees effectively. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, investing in targeted training, and providing constructive feedback, organisations can enhance their workforce’s skills, motivation, and engagement. As we move deeper into more strategies, it’s important to remember that the ultimate goal is to create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace. Encourage mentorship and coaching Mentorship and coaching are powerful tools for personal and professional development, offering employees guidance, support, and insights from more experienced colleagues. These relationships can help individuals navigate workplace challenges, develop new skills, and advance their careers, contributing to a stronger, more cohesive organisational culture. Implementing effective mentorship and coaching:
  • Formalise mentorship programs: Establish structured mentorship programs that pair less experienced employees with seasoned professionals. Provide guidelines and training for mentors to ensure they are prepared to offer valuable support.
  • Offer professional coaching: Consider investing in professional coaching for high-potential employees. Coaches can work with individuals on specific development areas, leadership skills, or career progression plans.
  • Promote peer learning: Encourage informal mentorship and peer learning opportunities within teams. Sharing knowledge and experiences can foster a supportive learning environment and enhance team collaboration.
Support work-life balance Supporting employees’ work-life balance is crucial for their well-being and overall job satisfaction. A healthy balance can prevent burnout, increase engagement, and improve productivity. Especially in today’s fast-paced work environment, recognising the importance of personal time and flexibility can significantly impact employees’ loyalty and commitment to the organisation. Strategies to support work-life balance:
  • Flexible working arrangements: Offer flexible working options, such as remote work, flexible hours, and compressed workweeks. These arrangements can help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities more effectively.
  • Encourage time off: Promote a culture that values taking time off for rest and rejuvenation. Ensure that employees feel comfortable taking their full entitlement of annual leave without fear of falling behind or being perceived as less committed.
  • Provide resources for well-being: Offer access to well-being resources, such as employee assistance programmes, mindfulness sessions, or fitness memberships. Supporting employees’ physical and mental health contributes to a more positive and productive work environment.
Promote internal mobility Offering opportunities for internal mobility and career progression not only helps retain top talent but also supports employee development by exposing them to new challenges and learning opportunities. Internal mobility can take many forms, including promotions, lateral moves, or project-based assignments, allowing employees to explore different roles and departments within the organisation. Helping to create internal mobility:
  • Career pathing: Work with employees to understand their career aspirations and identify potential paths within the organisation. Transparent discussions about career progression can motivate employees to develop the skills needed for future roles.
  • Skill-based assignments: Encourage participation in cross-functional projects or task forces. These opportunities allow employees to apply their skills in new contexts and learn from colleagues in different areas of the business.
  • Transparent job postings: Ensure internal job openings are widely communicated. Providing clear information about the skills and experiences required for each role can help employees identify development areas and apply for positions that align with their career goals.
Final thoughts Supporting and developing employees is a multifaceted process that requires commitment and creativity from organisational leaders. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, investing in training, providing constructive feedback, encouraging mentorship and coaching, supporting work-life balance, and promoting internal mobility, businesses can create an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to grow.  Organisations that prioritise employee development are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, drive innovation, and achieve long-term success. Remember, the strength of your organisation lies in the capabilities and commitment of your people. Investing in their development is not just a strategy for individual growth but a cornerstone for building a resilient and thriving business.

Bassetlaw secures £20m levelling up boost

Tess Egginton
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Bassetlaw secures £20m levelling up boost
Bassetlaw will receive a £20 million boost as part of a major regeneration project announced by Government. The funding is part of the wider £400 million Levelling Up Partnerships in England, with the cash going to the 20 areas most in need for levelling up. Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young said: “This new Levelling Up Partnership is massive news for Bassetlaw and will make a real difference the region. This £20 million I’m announcing today builds on the millions we’ve already invested in the area to regenerate, level up and create new opportunities for local people. “We are working closely with the Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, and other local leaders, as part of our plans to Level Up the East Midlands, including by creating the East Midlands Combined Authority which will give local communities more power to shape decisions which directly affect them.” The package of investment includes:
  • £14m to redevelop old print rooms in Worksop, a vacant retail unit in Priory Shopping centre and a derelict site in Harworth & Bircotes. This will help create a new education centre, NHS health and wellbeing centre, and community hub.
  • £3m for streetscaping in Retford, Worksop and Tuxford town centres, helping to improve access and tackle anti-social behaviour.
  • £1.5m for Worksop to renovate derelict land and create a community farm shop.
  • £1m to redevelop Retford Town Hall into a new community space, including a banking hub and £150,000 for investment in Manton Children’s centre in Worksop for use as a Family Hub whose services will support local families.
  • £120k of funding to the Council to support them in their local skills scoping work to ensure people can make use of the economic opportunities that STEP will bring and strategic visioning for the arrival of STEP.
  • £100k of funding for studies to help improve the town centres of Bassetlaw, which will further prepare the town and surrounding areas for the arrival of STEP.
This builds on the significant investment already made in Bassetlaw, including nearly £18 million from the Levelling Up Fund, over £3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as well as £20 million from the Long-Term plan for Towns. James Naish, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, said: “This £20 million investment through the Levelling Up Partnership will help to propel change and generate more life chances and opportunities for residents of all ages across Bassetlaw. “The range of projects – put forward by the Council to purposefully cover the whole of the District – includes supporting improvements to the streets where people live and shop; creating new exercise and training opportunities; investing in community spaces such as banking and family hubs; and promoting the employment, business and educational opportunities created by the planned prototype fusion energy plant at West Burton. “Among the eight confirmed projects, there are schemes in Tuxford and Harworth & Bircotes as well as Retford and Worksop, all of which contributes to delivering the Council’s vision for Bassetlaw as a whole to become an even better place to live, work and do business.”

Family run motor group acquires Burton car retailer

Tess Egginton
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Family run motor group acquires Burton car retailer
Read Motor Group has expanded their net in a takeover of Burton car retailer, TL Darby. A longtime Volkswagen dealership, the latest move will see the TL Darby Volkswagen dealership become Read Hyundai Burton. As well as being the place to go for all things Hyundai in Burton, the dealership however will still be working closely with Volkswagen to maintain its current Aftersales service to Volkswagen customers old and new. As a Volkswagen authorised repairer, the same Volkswagen expert after sales team will continue to service and MOT all Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda and Cupra at the site as always. The Read Motor Group has grown from a single Hyundai site in 2010, to spanning 10 sites across the North and Midlands area. It is family owned and run, with company owner Mike Read still very much in the driving seat of the business. TL Darby has been a recognisable name and family-run business in the local area for over 50 years, and as such, owner Richard Darby was keen to be handing over the reins to a fellow family-run business owner. The Read Motor Group owner, Mike Read said: “Richard and the team at TL Darby have long been an important part of the local community, and I am proud to continue his legacy by serving customers in the Burton area with the same team, looking after customers old and new alike. The Hyundai brand is a very exciting brand and has some great things to offer, and I very much look forward to bringing it to Burton.”

Recycling initiative launched to transform lives of homeless people

Tess Egginton
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Recycling initiative launched to transform lives of homeless people

A new programme, devised by the charity Framework, can help businesses recycle domestic or office furniture, electrical appliances, fixtures and fittings and, at the same time, transform the lives of homeless people.

Framework provides supported accommodation for around 3,000 homeless people each year across Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Every year Framework furnishes and equips around 600 units of accommodation – mostly one-bed flats – at an annual cost of £660,000.

The Furnishing Futures scheme aims to help two types of business. It offers a solution for producers, suppliers and retailers seeking to dispose of dead stock including furniture, electrical appliances, kitchenware, soft furnishing and bedding. The scheme is also aimed at businesses wishing to recycle and repurpose items following a refurbishment.

Furnishing Futures is designed to accept either regular or one-off donations. Every donation will receive an impact report to help the business demonstrate the resulting social and environmental impact – outlining the number of people helped and the number of items diverted from landfill. This information can be used to show progress towards achieving Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals.

Nottingham’s Lace Market Hotel has recently become the first donor to the new Furnishing Futures scheme with the provision of beds, desks and chairs. Area Sales Manager Richard Adamson said: “We are proud to have supported Framework’s Furnishing Futures initiative, contributing to their mission to end homelessness and tackle disadvantage by helping to furnish properties for local people experiencing homelessness.

“This initiative is ideal for hotels like ours as we are currently going through a soft refurb. Instead of disposing of these items in a less environmentally- and socially-conscious way, we wanted to ensure our old furniture could help give a new lease of life to someone who needs it.

“We are big believers in helping make our local community a safer, cleaner and more comfortable place for everyone. By working in partnership with Framework we are delighted to have been able to do just that and we would urge other hotels and businesses to consider doing the same.”

Matt Cooke, the Framework fundraiser managing the scheme, says: “The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) estimates that, in 2020, the UK generated approximately 28 million tonnes of commercial waste, much of which was incinerated or sent to landfill.

“That waste will have included many thousands of items of hard and soft furnishings – often in great condition or still brand new – that could have had a new lease of life.

“What many producers, suppliers and retailers might consider ‘dead stock’ is seen by charities like Framework as something that can help build new lives.

“We want to highlight the opportunity to businesses who have a problem disposing of high-quality, ex-display, returned or end-of-line hard or soft furnishings, electrical appliances, kitchenware and bedding.

“In addition, Furnishing Futures is relevant to businesses who are contemplating refurbishment and are looking for a disposal solution that is both cost-free and demonstrates their sense of social and environmental responsibility. We are very grateful to the management at the Lace Market Hotel in Nottingham who have recently provided proof of concept by becoming our first Furnishing Futures donor.

“We invite businesses to join forces with Framework through our Furnishing Futures initiative and donate their stock to give it – and the people we support – a new lease of life.

“Our charity faces immense cost-of-living pressures – for instance our annual fuel bill rose by 81% in the past year meaning there was £1.3m less to spend on supporting people in need. By saving us the cost of purchasing new goods, businesses participating in Furnishing Futures will enable us to divert similarly much-needed resources to support the growing number of people seeking our support in these difficult times.

“Furnishing Futures offers a win for businesses; it is also a win for Framework and the people we support, and it’s definitely a win for the environment!

“So we look forward to working with interested business partners to make a difference together through this exciting and innovative project.”

To turn an empty house or flat into a welcoming home for someone who has been experiencing homelessness the items needed by Framework include:

  • Furniture: 2-seater sofas, dining tables and chairs, coffee tables, bedside tables, wardrobes, chests of drawers and single bed frames

  • Electrical appliances: kettles, toasters, microwaves, vacuum cleaners, TVs, smartphones with chargers, laptops with chargers

  • Kitchenware: cutlery, dining sets (bowls, plates, mugs), cooking utensils, cooking pans, oven trays

  • Bedding: mattresses, sheets, duvets and covers, pillows and cases

  • Furnishings such as roller blinds, lamps and lampshades.

Harris Lamb appoints principal ecologist

Tess Egginton
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Harris Lamb appoints principal ecologist

Property consultancy Harris Lamb has appointed a principal ecologist to its CIEEM-accredited environmental department to meet the growing demand for its services.

Susan Sweetman joins from Wakefield Council and brings more than 15 years experience in key ecological roles throughout the UK to the business, including positions at Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.

Susan, who has an Honours degree in Zoology from the University of Edinburgh and a master’s degree in Conservation and Biodiversity from the University of Leeds, has a particular passion for botany and nature-based solutions.

Dr Holly Smith, head of Harris Lamb’s Environmental department, said: “We are delighted to welcome Susan to our team, where, thanks to her enthusiasm and extensive experience within the field, she will be a huge asset.

“Susan brings a diverse range of skills to the business, including a track record of conducting ecological appraisals, protected species surveys, Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain calculations and is also experienced in providing advice on ecological legislation, policy and knowledge to clients, community groups, landowners, planners and developers.

“Her understanding and confidence in explaining the risks to the environment and penalties faced by stakeholders are essential skills that will be of huge benefit to our clients,” added Holly.

Susan has a passion for protected species, having obtained a Natural England great crested newt survey licence and gained a wealth of experience carrying out bat surveys on top of voluntary work conducted with the Derbyshire Bat Group, in addition to pursuing further experience of carrying out surveys for otter, water vole and white-clawed crayfish.

Susan said: “I was attracted to Harris Lamb due to its excellent reputation for practising ecology within the commercial sector, and I welcomed the opportunity to continue to work with a diverse range of stakeholders to advise on and oversee ecological projects and further their understanding of the importance of sustainability.

“I am passionate about protecting species and habitats and helping them to thrive and am looking forward to providing additional ecological expertise to the commercial and residential developments, and to helping to bring these to fruition while both protecting and enhancing wildlife and biodiversity throughout the country.”

Steve prepares to sleep under the stars to raise money for veterans experiencing homelessness and hardship

Tess Egginton
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Steve prepares to sleep under the stars to raise money for veterans experiencing homelessness and hardship
Steve Davies will be swapping the comfort of his own bed for a sleeping bag today, Friday, March 15, when he takes part in the Great Tommy Sleepout to raise money for veterans who are experiencing hardship and homelessness. Steve, who is Same Day Operations Manager at Hannington-based Xtra Express Logistics, is showing his supporting for the event, which has been organised by the Royal British Legion to support 6,000 vulnerable veterans. Steve will be sleeping out under the stars in his own garden in Northampton to help raise money and awareness. He said: “This is a cause which is really close to my heart, so I want to raise as much money as possible. My Grandad served during the war, and I do a lot to support the Royal British Legion, so this was very personal for me. “I was given a tent free of charge by Alan Day, a very kind-hearted person on Facebook Marketplace from Milton Keynes, and I’m looking forward to getting involved.” Steve has worked for Xtra Express Logistics for 11 years and says the support he has received from his colleagues has been overwhelming. He said: “They’ve been brilliant and I am very grateful. They have made donations and really helped me on my way towards my fundraising target.” To show your support for the Great Tommy Sleepout visit www.facebook.com/donate/1081130819591866/.
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