Fire sprinkler firm snapped up
Compliance Group, the integrated provider of safety and regulatory compliance services across electrical, fire, and water, has revealed its latest merger with Kettering-based CT Fire Protection.
CT Fire Protection joins Compliance Group’s Fire Division to deliver high-quality fire sprinkler systems and associated services.
Founded in 1995 by Curtis and Toni Waters, CT Fire Protection specialises in fire sprinkler systems and fire pumps, as well as dry and wet risers, fire hydrants, and fire hose reels.
Julian Williams, CEO of Compliance Group’s Fire Division, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome CT Fire Protection into our Fire Division. CT exemplifies exceptional customer service backed by technical excellence. Adding sprinkler services will greatly enhance our offering to our customers.”
Curtis and Toni Waters added: “We are thrilled to join Compliance Group. Our customers, some of whom have been with us for over 25 years, will benefit from the investment in our business infrastructure and access to a wider array of compliance services.”
Viridis supports Sustainable Development category for a further year at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Viridis Building Services Ltd has returned to sponsor the Sustainable Development of the Year category for a further year at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024.
Growing your business by building greener, Viridis are experts in providing sustainable passive environmental building services solutions incorporating renewable, low carbon, low energy, H.V.A.C, M.E.P, systems for the built environment whilst meeting client’s aspirations, helping you create sustainable, appealing and cost-effective buildings on the journey to Net Zero.
Speaking with Business Link, a spokesperson for Viridis Building Services Ltd said: “Viridis are proud to sponsor the Sustainable Development of the Year award for another year. We have promoted this award for the past few years due to our own values as a team and how these fits in with those.
“It allows us the opportunity to review innovative ideas, solutions, and developments in and around the East Midlands. We are passionate about sustainability and are proud to see that others have the same ethos as ourselves with their entries.
“We believe being involved in this award allows us to further promote these pragmatic design solutions to create new relationships to present to others what can be done – to hopefully create an even more innovative sustainable future through places and spaces.
“We are excited to see this year’s entries, as we are every year, and look forward to presenting the winner of this award. We feel that the Bricks is an opportunity to bring everyone in the area together to celebrate our achievements and promote our works to create a bigger and better East Midlands.”
The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, recognise development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Winning one of these awards will add considerably to a company’s or individual’s brand and enhance their commercial reach significantly.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Speaking with Business Link, a spokesperson for Viridis Building Services Ltd said: “Viridis are proud to sponsor the Sustainable Development of the Year award for another year. We have promoted this award for the past few years due to our own values as a team and how these fits in with those.
“It allows us the opportunity to review innovative ideas, solutions, and developments in and around the East Midlands. We are passionate about sustainability and are proud to see that others have the same ethos as ourselves with their entries.
“We believe being involved in this award allows us to further promote these pragmatic design solutions to create new relationships to present to others what can be done – to hopefully create an even more innovative sustainable future through places and spaces.
“We are excited to see this year’s entries, as we are every year, and look forward to presenting the winner of this award. We feel that the Bricks is an opportunity to bring everyone in the area together to celebrate our achievements and promote our works to create a bigger and better East Midlands.”
The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, recognise development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Winning one of these awards will add considerably to a company’s or individual’s brand and enhance their commercial reach significantly.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Practical completion for first phase of student accommodation at The Island Quarter, Nottingham
The Conygar Investment Company PLC, the property investment and development group, has revealed that practical completion of its first phase of student accommodation at The Island Quarter in Nottingham has been achieved.
As a result of achieving practical completion, the property, which comprises 693 beds, in addition to extensive amenity space, is now under the control of appointed manager Fresh Property Group and available for occupation.
This will enable their full access to the premises and further enhance ongoing student lettings in good time for the September 2024 student intake.
Robert Ware, Chief Executive of Conygar, said: “We are delighted have to have reached this milestone in the development of The Island Quarter and would like to thank all of the parties involved who have ensured the provision of a very high quality, amenity filled property, which was delivered on time and on budget, and which we believe is a very exciting addition to the student accommodation offering in Nottingham.”
Flexible packaging manufacturer ceases trading after sale unsuccessful
Nottinghamshire-based Surepak Limited is ceasing to trade despite appointed administrators at PKF Smith Cooper being hopeful of a sale following the interest of 96 parties.
Surepak Limited’s financial concerns became apparent during the global energy crisis when its electricity costs increased by more than 425%. This increase, coupled with the loss of two significant contracts, decreased the company’s turnover by c.£1m, due to customers’ packaging requirements changing and the relocation of a customer abroad.
The Nottinghamshire-based organisation sought a buyer after sole director Stuart Yorston filed for administration on 9th February 2024. This was to safeguard the company’s business, assets, and employees from a winding-up petition served by a creditor, which was due to be heard on 14th February.
PKF Smith Cooper’s Business Recovery and Restructuring Partners Dean Nelson and Nick Lee were appointed joint administrators on 12th February. Despite the challenges, Surepak Limited has continued to trade for the short term whilst in administration and the administrators diligently pursued potential buyers, receiving substantial interest from 96 parties.
Despite the optimum effort following a merger and acquisition process, and various offers being received, the sale progression has subsequently been unsuccessful, resulting in Surepak Limited ceasing to trade on 10th May 2024. Incorporated in 1991, the company has been trading for over 32 years, starting out as a distributor, before moving into manufacturing in 2005.
Polypouch UK Limited has purchased the order book.
The administrators said they are disappointed with the ultimate outcome in not securing a sale of the business and assets as a going concern, however they would like to wholeheartedly thank the employees for their hard work and dedication, as well as customers for their continued support throughout this difficult process.
Go ahead given to new food waste recycling site
A food waste recycling operator in Lincolnshire, BioteCH4, has been granted planning permission to build a second anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in the region, increasing the capacity to turn unavoidable food waste into green energy and biofertiliser.
The application for a new plant at the Hemswell Cliff Site near Gainsborough was approved by Lincolnshire County Council’s Planning and Regulation Committee on Monday 3 June.
The new 6MW AD plant will include a waste reception building, three digesters, a gas bag and a new access road. It will produce a quantity of green energy that is equivalent to powering over 19,000 homes when fully operational.
AD is the most sustainable process of recycling food waste, into methane-rich biogas and biofertiliser. Last year, BioteCH4 recycled over 600,000 tonnes of food waste across its six sites, transforming it into 300MWh of energy.
Lee Dobinson, Chief Commercial Officer at BioteCH4, said: “We’re pleased to receive planning permission for a new anaerobic digestion plant at our Hemswell Biogas site. The new facility will increase the group’s processing capacity by 200,000 tonnes annually. This will allow us to meet growing demands for food waste recycling, increase green energy outputs, and further strengthen our voice as market leaders.”
Freeths continues to expand with corporate director appointment in the East Midlands
Law firm Freeths has appointed corporate director Hannah Tessyman to further grow and expand the practice across the East Midlands. She joins from Knights.
Experienced in the sector, Hannah has over ten years’ experience with a particular focus on M&A and complex corporate reorganisations. Her clientele ranges from local and regional businesses to large national corporates.
Hannah’s appointment comes just weeks after corporate partner Martin Smith joined the firm to bolster the practice in the region. Hannah’s arrival is one of several significant senior hires for the corporate team over recent months, with more to follow in the coming months.
In her new role at Freeths, Hannah will work alongside Martin and the national team to drive forward the firm’s corporate presence in the East Midlands.
Commenting on the appointment, Martin Smith, said: “We’re delighted to have Hannah on board as we continue to grow. I’ve worked with Hannah for many years and her ability to deliver a quality service for clients is second to none. It’s an exciting time for the Freeths East Midlands corporate team.”
Hannah Tessyman added: “It’s a really exciting time to be joining Freeths as the firm continues on an upward growth trajectory.
“I was very attracted by how clearly the corporate practice is thriving despite recent and current economic challenges, together with the long-established strength of the firm’s reputation for delivering a quality service to its clients. I am delighted to continue doing that whilst growing our corporate offering in the East Midlands.”
Stephen Eve Financial Planning celebrates its second birthday
Midlands-based wealth management company Stephen Eve Financial Planning has reached its second birthday since it was launched by Ben and Danielle Slater in June 2022. Starting with zero clients on day one, the founders have now supported over 100 clients since inception, with 85 of those becoming ongoing clients who have regular financial reviews.
Based in Regent Street in Nottingham city centre, Stephen Eve Financial Planning helps its clients achieve their financial aspirations by providing a range of services including retirement planning, investment advice and cash-flow analysis.
Feedback from clients over the last two years has been encouraging with some of the highlights being:
“…giving advice without jargon and making the complex simpler!” – Catherine Grainger
“…explaining our options in a thorough, clear, and totally understandable way. We now have confidence in our finance options for the future, thank you” – Bev Orridge
“We look forward to many more years of working with the team at Stephen Eve.” – Martin Schofield
“We feel content and assured that they have our best interests at heart.” – Mary Dugan
Directors Ben and Danielle comment that clients are at the heart of the business but some memorable milestones have also been:
- Moving into the Regent Street office after a year of working from home
- Employing Rav, the business Paraplanner
- Partnering with Switch Up charity to support Nottingham’s young people
- Working with more young people, welcoming them to the office for work experience and supporting graduates at Nottingham Trent on skills bootcamps
- Launching the Check-In service to give clients confidence to manage their own money, if they wish to take a more hands-on approach
- Reaching £35m of assets under management
- Winning the Wealth & Finance International award for Best Independent Retirement Planning Firm 2024
- Becoming a finalist for Generation Next Start Up of the Year Award and national UK StartUp Awards
- Winning the regional UK StartUp Awards Professional Services Start Up of the Year
- Ben being shortlisted for the 2024 Professional Adviser Awards Young Achiever of the Year
- Being featured in publications like The Guardian and Popsugar
- Ben appearing on the Financial Planner Life podcast, with Sam Oakes
Just over a week to go until businesses battle at the 2024 Lincoln Dragon Boat Race!
The spectacular event, taking place on Saturday 15th June, has become one of the biggest in the City’s event calendar, attracting hundreds of spectators and competitors on the day along the Brayford Waterfront.
This year the event is raising money for Lincolnshire’s first responders LIVES and nearly 20 teams have signed up to take part on the day.
Teams include the two headliners Freedom Fire & Security and Siemens Energy as well as other local organisations from across Lincolnshire.
The event promises to be colourful and great fun, no previous experience is required, just plenty of team spirit!
As well as the boat racing there will also be plenty of family activities, food and drink stalls along the Brayford Waterfront for the whole family to enjoy, and there will also be a special performance from Rock Choir Lincolnshire from about 12.30pm on the day.
Teams are encouraged to raise money for LIVES through sponsorship and fundraising.
LIVES is a vital Lincolnshire charity who attend 999 medical emergencies across the county, 365 days a year. Whether they are providing rapid first response support on their doorstep, or highly specialised medical interventions to the most seriously ill patients, they all volunteer their time – for free – to save lives and be there when someone is having their worst day. The charity provide the equipment and training for the ever increasing need.
Charlie McCelland from LIVES said: “We are immensely excited to be announcing the Dragon Boat Race for 2024 after the success of previous year’s event. We need to raise over £1.4 million every year to ensure our highly skilled volunteers are there when a 999 call is made, when minutes matter. The Dragon Boat Race is a great day out and will entice some healthy competition between local businesses in order to raise these vital funds to keep our Emergency Responders on the road and continue saving lives in Lincolnshire.”
For further information and details for the day contact Alex Bennett alex.bennett@ringroselaw.co.uk or visit https://www.ringroselaw.co.uk/about/lincoln-dragon-boat-race/
Rothera Bray welcomes dispute resolution consultant
East Midlands based firm Rothera Bray continues its recruitment drive with the appointment of Kendal Litherland as a consultant in the Dispute Resolution team.
With over three decades of experience, Kendal has built a nationally recognised reputation in handling professional negligence claims for claimants against various professionals including solicitors, insurance brokers, barristers, surveyors, accountants, structural engineers, architects, IFAs and SIPP operators.
His expertise extends to resolving disputes for both commercial entities and individuals, through negotiation, mediation and formal litigation.
In addition to professional negligence work Kendal also has experience of a wide range of civil and commercial disputes.
Commenting on his appointment, Kendal, who is a member of the Professional Negligence Lawyers Association, said: “I’m thrilled to become a part of Rothera Bray and the Dispute Resolution team. The team have been incredibly welcoming, and I’m excited to leverage my expertise to enhance the quality of our services.”
Christina Yardley, CEO at Rothera Bray, said: “We’re delighted to have Kendal join our team. With his extensive experience and stellar reputation in the field, his addition strengthens our capacity and expertise in meeting the growing demand for our professional negligence services.”
Acquisition sees emission control technology firm expand
Gainsborough-based Eminox has acquired UK and US based SaveGuard (formerly Culimeta-Saveguard). The move enhances Eminox’s ability to deliver pioneering emission reduction technologies to customers, worldwide.
SaveGuard, known for its highly technical, cutting-edge thermal and acoustic insulation products, has manufacturing facilities in Ashton-Under-Lyne, UK, and Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA.
It designs and produces a range of automotive products used in vehicle exhausts, including acoustic and thermal insulation materials, Katpak, Thermolastic, knitted products, bespoke sleeves, insulation jackets, and heat shields. The acquisition also includes the FireHalt product line, known for its cavity fire barriers designed and manufactured in the UK.
“The acquisition of SaveGuard aligns with our vision of expanding our value offering and enhancing our technological capabilities,” said Jonathan Griffith, Managing Director of Eminox. “SaveGuard’s renowned products and expertise complement Eminox’s mission to continue the development of innovative emission reduction solutions for our customers, globally.
“In addition, the strong alignment of values between SaveGuard’s operational teams, Eminox and the wider Hexadex Group further reinforces the strategic fit of this acquisition and we are excited to welcome SaveGuard into the Hexadex Group.”
Bleckmann takes over logistics for SuperDry at Burton site
Bleckmann, a logistics service provider, is set to assume control of the logistics operations for Superdry at ‘The Duke’ site in Burton on Trent.
The transition will involve approximately 170 employees, who will transfer to Bleckmann under the same terms and conditions they are presently working under.
No redundancies are planned as part of this transition. Rather, Bleckmann expects to attract new customers to this warehouse, creating more jobs in the region.
“At the European mainland Superdry has been a client since 2007 and we are proud that we also will do their logistics in the United Kingdom,” said Reinardt van Oel, Chief Operations Officer Belgium and UK at Bleckmann.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Superdry, Julian Dunkerton adds: “I am delighted that Bleckmann has now become our Global Logistics provider. This is a partnership that goes from strength to strength.”
Derby-based precision engineering group makes acquisition
Accrofab, the Derby-based precision engineering group acquired by Endless LLP’s Enact Fund III in July 2023, has acquired RTI Advanced Forming Limited (RTI) from Howmet Aerospace.
RTI will be carved out of Howmet and gradually integrated into the Accrofab group.
Based in Welwyn Garden City with 74 employees, RTI specialises in super plastic titanium forming supplying to a long-standing blue chip customer base including aerospace OEMs and tier 1 suppliers. RTI is one of a handful of companies in the world with the engineering expertise to be able to make these complex formed products.
Accrofab’s acquisition will expand and complement the group’s position on single-aisle aircraft and diversifies the customer base across both engine and structural precision engineered components.
Enact will provide fresh capital to support planned improvements to the site and unlock RTIs potential for growth, through new business and increased market share. Accrofab’s turnover will increase from £30m to approximately £50m following the acquisition of RTI.
Since being acquired by Enact in July 2023, Accrofab has continued to grow from strength to strength and is well positioned to grow through further complementary acquisitions. Enact is proactively seeking the Accrofab Group’s next acquisition.
Richard Harrison, Enact Partner in the Manchester office, said: “Since carving out the Derby and Alcester sites from the Bromford Group, the newly formed Accrofab Group is in great shape and we see it as an exciting platform for further acquisitions.
“Enact Fund III is committed to backing the Accrofab Management team with its buy-and-build strategy and so the RTI acquisition marks a key milestone on this journey. We are very excited to welcome RTI to the Accrofab Group.”
Simon Ward, Chair of the Accrofab Group, said: “I am pleased to have completed our first acquisition which builds on our strategy to enhance the capability & commercial offerings of the Accrofab Group.
“The opportunity this unlocks for our customers is exciting, as it builds on the Accrofab reputation for performance which we can now enhance further with a wider opportunity for integrated solutions.”
Enact (Kiran Reddy and Jake Farrell) were advised by Shoosmiths (Elia Montorio & Kendra McCullough), Kroll (Martin Gray, Stuart Finch, Paul Carter, Richard Li & Lucy Edwards), Claritas (Matt Hodgson, Peter Hully & Robin Greenwood), Vista (Dan Blake & Peter Warburton) and Jackson Breen (Allan & Mark).
Cynergy Business Finance will also partner with Enact by providing a new asset-based lending (ABL) facility to support the RTI acquisition, having already supported the original Accrofab acquisition. Cynergy (Danny Monksfield & Brad Shackleton) were advised by Bermans (Dave Gledhill) and SIA (Neil Evans and Ian Dyer).
Howmet Aerospace were advised by Angle Advisors (Cliff Roesler, Michael McCoy & Adam Hale).
Motorcycle company sues Next over t-shirt
Motorcycle company, Harley-Davidson, is suing Leicestershire retailer Next over claims that one of its t-shirts copies its logo.
Harley-Davidson is suing Next in London’s High Court over the top, alleging that its biker angel wings, flames and ‘Rise and Roar’ text, infringes its trademarks, according to the Financial Times.
Reports from the Financial Times reference a lawsuit filed last month, with Harley-Davidson’s thoughts that the product “essentially replicates” the outline of its logo and includes “graphic material and text which is…commonly seen in the context of a motorcycle-based branding and more specifically the claimants’ branding.”
The t-shirt has been sold for children between 3-16 years old.
Harley-Davidson is looking for an order from the court that Next destroy its “infringing materials.”
As well as its motorcycle business, Harley-Davidson also has a clothing division.
Cyber security research wins funding to explore commercialisation
Two projects from De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) have won funding from a programme designed to support commercialisation of cyber security research.
Philleted Phish and Telehealth CybrShield are being supported by the Cyber Security Academic Start-Up Accelerator (Cyber ASAP) which is funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to help researchers turn ideas into businesses, and develop their entrepreneurial skills.
Cyber ASAP creates a pipeline to commercialise innovation, moving research into marketable technologies, products and services. Both DMU projects align with the UK Government’s aims to boost cyber security protection.
Philleted Phish aims to help prevent people falling victims to scams and online frauds by spotting and stopping phishing emails, a type of cyber attacks that targets people through their emails. People can mistakenly think they are receiving genuine communications and be tricked into clicking links which allow malware or divulging private information.
Cyber attacks cost UK businesses £37 billion a year – and around 90 per cent of these attacks start with a phishing email. Dr Iryna Yevseyeva, Professor Eerke Boiten, Dr Viktor Basto-Fernandes, part-time lecturer at DMU, and PhD student Trevor Wood are developing proof-of-concept software for smaller businesses and individuals. Current commercial solutions are available but cannot be run on laptops and are designed for large scale businesses.
The Philleted Phish team said: “This is a very exciting opportunity. It has the potential to reduce the amount of successful cyber-attacks on small businesses, which will in turn increase their profitability and reduce the flow of funds to organised crime. Domestic users will be able use the service too, keeping them, and their children, safer online.”
The Telehealth CybrShield team are working to protect medical data and make it more secure, using complex cryptography and AI algorithms to scramble online information making it harder for cyber attackers to access.
Telehealth CyberShield device tackles two main issues: financial losses and cyberattacks in the healthcare sector. The team, of Dr Richard Smith, Dr Mujeeb Rehman, Dr Arslan Shafique and Dr Muhammad Kazim, plan to work with healthcare providers to develop it commercially.
Dr Smith said: “Telehealth Cybrshield provides an innovative, highly-efficient and secure device for protecting medical data. It provides real-time, robust security by utilizing a future-proof, low computational complexity approach for healthcare data. It mitigates cyber threats by ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of the data it protects and seamlessly integrates with existing data processing devices.”
Nationally the DCMS funding has helped projects to leverage £12,382,895 in additional investment which includes venture capital and angel investment.
All units under offer at new Clay Cross commercial development
A new industrial estate in Clay Cross near Chesterfield has demonstrated success, with significant business demand.
Wingfield View Business Park is a new development, comprising 19 industrial/warehouse units totalling just over 60,000ft².
FHP Property Consultants have been working alongside joint agents, Knight Frank, and have confirmed that all units are now under offer with 50% having already exchanged contracts. The units will be ready for occupation in July 2024.
The business park is being built by Roe Developments who have completed several projects in Clay Cross to date.
Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants says: “This has been an extremely successful development and one which has been a pleasure to work on. The size of units delivered is exactly what the local market requires, and consequently the majority of these units are going to local businesses.
“There has been a continued demand for units up to 10,000ft² particularly on a freehold basis and the flexibility here has been key to getting all the units under offer.”
Harry Gamble of FHP Property Consultants says: “It has been a delight to work alongside my client in letting out these high quality industrial/warehouse units.
“With businesses starting to be more wary about taking on a new unit, it has been a pleasure to work with all the tenants and purchasers in taking on these units. I wish every business success in the future.”
Following the success at Wingfield View Business Park, Roe Developments are now building out Egstow View Business Park which will offer trade counter and warehouse units in Clay Cross. This scheme should be ready Q2 2025 and three units are already under offer.
Work underway on disability charity’s new hub
It’s been a busy year for Mosaic 1898, a Leicester-based disability charity, since they embarked on an exciting journey to restore and revive an old, at-risk community asset in Whetstone. Their project promises to create a life-enhancing hub of care and support for disabled people and the local community.
Zoheb Shariff, CEO, Mosaic 1898 said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating this moment, a milestone that is a testament to our team, partners, supporters, and community. This is another feat in our charity’s long history that will no doubt be a catalyst to further our work to enrich the lives of disabled people by creating spaces where communities can thrive.”
The charity recently appointed Scope Construction as the principal contractor and inaugurated the build at a humble breaking ground ceremony, celebrating the moment with their people, partners and supporters as well as representatives from Blaby District Council.
Alberto Costa MP for South Leicestershire together with the charity’s Chairman, Steve Smith did the honours of putting the very first spade in the ground to mark the occasion.
Steve Smith, Chairperson, Mosaic 1898 said: “It’s a very exciting time for Mosaic 1898. It hasn’t been easy to get to this point, but taking on the challenges was always going to be worth it. It’s wonderful to see the redevelopment work commence on this project, that will benefit and enrich the lives of disabled people in Whetstone, Blaby, and beyond for many years to come.”
In its 125th year, Mosaic 1898 purchased the site with an ambitious vision. The site consists of 3 buildings, each of which will be carefully transformed into accessible spaces for social good, including:
The Chapel: a space that has been serving the community for over 100 years, will be restored, and preserved, once again to become a place of opportunity, impact, and belonging for the local community.
The Community Building: will be a catalyst for the charity to reach more disabled people through new and existing services and activities. The building will become a truly accessible space, complete with changing, sensory, holistic therapy, and health check rooms.
The Manse: formerly the Church Office, is soon to become an around the clock, four-bed care facility. The Manse will provide sought after short breaks for disabled people with complex needs, while offering much needed respite to families and caregivers.
Alberto Costa MP, an avid supporter, said: “This project is supported by the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, with a significant grant of £243,180. With work underway, the project promises to be launched later this year.”
Milestone celebrated at £6.25m light industrial scheme in Leicester
Construction of a new industrial scheme in Leicester has reached a major milestone with groundwork complete and steel frames erected.
Commercial property developer, Brackley Property Developments (BPD), is redeveloping a brownfield site off Blackbird Road near Leicester city centre, on behalf of Leicester City Council.
Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, managing director of BPD was joined on site by Leicester city mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby and main contractor, Wilten Construction Limited, to mark the progression of the new £6.25 million project.
It will create more than 30,000 sq ft of light industrial accommodation, with four new buildings housing 21 small units for start-ups and growing businesses. Units will include roof-mounted solar panels, super insulation and low-energy smart lighting, while tenants will also have access to EV charging and bicycle storage.
The land was previously home to the Ian Marlow Centre, a former housing depot used by Leicester City Council, which contained vacant office, workshop and storage buildings.
BPD won the remit from Leicester City Council to deliver the project following a competitive tendering process. The scheme is being financed by the government’s Levelling Up Fund and is programmed for completion in October 2024.
Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, managing director of BPD, said: “It is pleasing to see the ongoing transformation of the site and the completion of the development’s steel frame. These new units will deliver environmentally sustainable accommodation within Leicester City and go some way to meeting the significant local demand for commercial employment workspace.”
City mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby said: “These much-needed industrial units will breathe new life into a vacant council site and help meet the urgent demand for commercial and industrial workspaces for start-up and growing businesses within Leicester City.
“Along with supporting local employers and the creation of new jobs, these new buildings and workspaces also demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting the local economy through investment in cleaner, greener low carbon developments.”
Johnsons Aggregates & Recycling targets net zero with six-figure investment
BGF-backed Johnsons Aggregates has made a major six-figure investment in new technology and equipment as it accelerates its carbon reduction strategy.
The business recycles incinerator bottom ash (IBA), reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. Metals are extracted from the IBA, turning the residue into a quality aggregate suitable for the construction industry, thereby avoiding any material going to landfill and prolonging the life of finite resources in the country.
Johnsons currently handles more than 700,000tonnes per annum of waste and quarried material, projected to rise to 1,000,000tonnes in the next 24 months.
It is committed to an ambitious carbon reduction program as part of its ESG strategy, reducing its carbon output by 33 per cent to date since 2020.
It has invested £750,000 on the installation of the latest technology PV panels across the two largest of its three processing sites, generating circa 700kwh of annual energy generation. The investment will save more than 200 ton of carbon emissions each year, with periods of self-sufficiency.
2024 will also see further exploration with bio fuels & electric vehicles on the road, as well as electric shovels and kit on sites, plus the introduction of hydrogen fueled vehicles, two of which will be operational by the end of 2026.
Lewis Johnson, CEO of Johnsons Aggregates and Recycling, said: “The waste sector has a lot of work to do in reducing carbon output – we’re proud to be leading the way with these significant investments which form part of an ambitious ESG strategy. It’s vital that the industry commit to major innovation and improvement as we target net zero carbon.”
BGF backed Johnsons Aggregates in 2016.
Jonathan Earl at BGF said: “Johnsons has made significant capital investments across its infrastructure and is also focused on major fleet improvements and other new technologies. Its ambition is matched by its performance, which is fantastic to see – investment in ESG is vital for the long-term, sustainable growth of the business.”
Pall-Ex and Fortec hosts charity football match to raise funds for Combat Stress and SSAFA
Pall-Ex Group hosted the annual Pall-Ex vs Fortec charity football match on the 25th of May, helping to raise £2032 for Armed Forces charities, SSAFA and Combat Stress.
At Leicester City’s King Power Stadium, teams made up of employees and members from across the Pall-Ex and Fortec networks faced each other in the hopes of securing victory in the third instalment of the charity shield.
The match kicked off at 2pm, with Pall-Ex looking to retain their winning streak after a tense 4-3 win over Fortec in 2023. In front of a crowd of 200 supporters, an action-filled match resulted in Fortec coming out victorious with a 5-1 win.
With Fortec captain Stuart White scoring an early goal just two minutes into the match, the domination from Fortec continued with the first half finishing 4-0. Shortly after coming back out for the second half, Fortec scored once again to make it 5-0, before Pall-Ex managed a consolation goal in the form of a penalty in the 85th minute, making it a 5-1 victory to Fortec.
Following the match, further funds were raised through a penalty shootout enjoyed by both children and adults alike, with each person paying £1 per go to support the charity initiative.
The football match raised a total of £1016 on the day through ticket sales and donations, with the Pall-Ex Group Charitable Foundation matching the figure to bring the total to £2032. The money raised will go towards offering life-changing support services to veterans struggling with complex mental health issues.
With a long-standing commitment to supporting the Armed Forces, Pall-Ex Group is a proud partner of both Combat Stress: The UK’s Leading Charity for Veterans’ Mental Health and SSAFA the Armed Forces charity.
In 2022, Pall-Ex Group achieved the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence, in recognition of the commitment shown to the Armed Forces community. Alongside providing support to military personnel who are looking for work after leaving the forces, its pledges include enhanced leave for Reservists and Cadets within the business and ongoing fundraising for veterans’ mental health charities.
At the Pall-Ex Group ‘World of Excellence’ annual awards evening in February of this year, SSAFA received a donation of £10,000 and recently employees from across Pall-Ex Group took part in Combat Stress’ March in March campaign, raising over £4200 throughout the month.
Kevin Buchanan, Group CEO at Pall-Ex Group, comments: “We are immensely proud to be able to host such fantastic events and in turn support the hard work that both Combat Stress and SSAFA do to aid veterans.
Our pledge to the Armed Forces community is something that we are honoured to uphold at Pall-Ex Group and we are committed to supporting the invaluable work that both of our charity partners carry out with further events throughout the year.
I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the team at Leicester City Football Club for their support with hosting our event over the last three years.”
Occupiers on site as spine road opens at Fairham Business Park
Fairham Business Park, which is being developed and managed by Clowes Developments, is open for business, with occupiers including Vision Express (Essilor Luxottica) and SLS Medical now on site and fully operational from their new premises.
Situated in Fairham, the 606-acre brand new neighbourhood minutes from the centre of Nottingham, Fairham Business Park consists of one million square feet of purpose-built commercial space.
With over half of this already built and occupied and a further two units under construction, property developers, Clowes, felt it was the right time to open the business park spine road, Foresters Way.
James Richards, Development Director at Fairham Business Park and Clowes Developments, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Fairham Business Park is officially open for business.
“Whilst there remains construction on certain plots, this milestone marks a significant step forward for our community, with leading local manufacturing companies already on site and two additional manufacturing and logistics occupiers to be named soon. This vibrant hub of industry and innovation is set to drive economic growth and create numerous opportunities for the region.”
Clowes have also invested heavily into the business park’s green open space and landscaping. Whitings Landscaping have successfully completed an extensive planting task over the last six weeks, with a variety of trees, shrubs, flora and fauna now embedded into the business park’s DNA.
The planting is heavily centred around creating an impressive vista along Foresters Avenue, with its infrastructure designed to create clean, straight lines down the middle of the business park featuring wide footpaths, a treelined street scene, and low-level evergreen planting. There is also a designated footpath around one of the park’s attenuation ponds providing a clear walkway all year round.
With half of the site now under offer or sold, there remains opportunities for build to suit facilities. The next phase of the development will see not just manufacturing and distribution space available but also space suitable for offices, a hotel, leisure facilities and other conveniences including roadside retail and trade counters.
