UK greenlights 138MW solar project in Derbyshire

April Lara
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UK greenlights 138MW solar project in Derbyshire

BayWa r.e. has secured UK government approval for its 138MW Oaklands Farm solar project in Derbyshire. The Development Consent Order (DCO), granted on 19 June by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, follows a planning review process that began earlier this year.

The ground-mounted solar installation is set for agricultural land between Rosliston and Walton-on-Trent. A 37.5MW battery energy storage system will be co-located with the solar array, supporting grid reliability and capacity.

Connection is planned via the Drakelow substation, formerly part of a coal-fired power station near Burton-upon-Trent.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with operations expected to start by 2028. This marks BayWa r.e.’s first UK solar project to receive DCO approval, and its fourth solar approval this year, bringing its 2025 UK pipeline to 235MW.

The project supports the UK’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan and strengthens BayWa r.e.’s position in the renewables market through large-scale infrastructure aligned with national decarbonisation goals.

Regional investment boost must deliver for all East Midlands businesses

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Regional investment boost must deliver for all East Midlands businesses

The UK Government’s newly published Infrastructure Strategy outlines £70 billion of planned investment across various sectors, including transport, housing, clean energy, and public services. East Midlands Chamber has responded with cautious optimism, calling for clarity, fairness, and execution that supports all parts of the region.

For the East Midlands, key projects identified include funding for the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to support initiatives in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, such as the Trent Arc programme, the Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route, and road upgrades along the A614/A6097. Additional investments target Leicester Royal Infirmary, the Derby and Ilkeston flood defence schemes, and nuclear energy development at West Burton through the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme.

While these allocations are welcomed, the Chamber has flagged concerns about uneven regional support, particularly the need for Leicestershire to receive proportional investment. Businesses also remain wary of the potential financial burden, particularly as they already face elevated National Insurance contributions and minimum wage increases. With the Autumn Budget on the horizon, the business community is urging the government to ensure infrastructure funding does not translate into higher taxes or costs for employers. The call is clear: implementation must be regionally balanced, transparent, and business-sensitive.

NAHL fails to dispose of critical care business

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NAHL fails to dispose of critical care business

After engaging in discussions to sell Bush & Co., NAHL has revealed that the process to dispose of the group’s critical care business has concluded without a sale.

NAHL, the Kettering-based marketing and services business focused on the UK consumer legal market, said the process “drew interest from a wide variety of potential bidders.” The group held “lengthy discussions” with and received “detailed proposals” from two final parties. These discussions, however, have now ceased. The business’s board has concluded that neither proposal delivered appropriate value to shareholders and is now considering its options.

Associated British Ports acquires Grimsby Seafood Village

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Associated British Ports acquires Grimsby Seafood Village
Associated British Ports (ABP) has extended its property portfolio with the acquisition of the long leasehold interest of Grimsby Seafood Village, a seafood processing centre. The multi-let industrial site spanning over four acres is located on ABP’s Port of Grimsby in the Humber. The purchase of the long leasehold lasting 125 years, which ABP had previously granted to the owners of the complex, provides future security and support for an important hub of UK food production. The 70,000 square foot site comprises 21 units with several fish processing businesses. In 2010 the complex was built and operated by the Great Grimsby Seafood Village Limited. Andrew Dawes, regional director of the Humber ports, said: “The acquisition of the Grimsby Seafood Village strengthens Associated British Ports’ commitment to Keeping Britain Trading. “It enhances our property portfolio with a vital hub for the UK’s seafood supply chain – supporting regional jobs, boosting food security, and anchoring long-term supply chain resilience in the heart of the Humber.”

Rothera Bray makes record 15 promotions across the firm

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Rothera Bray makes record 15 promotions across the firm
Rothera Bray has made a record number of internal promotions, with fifteen team members from across the firm’s office locations being promoted. Among the promotions, five solicitors have been appointed to the newly introduced managing associate role, a testament to their leadership and specialist expertise. The new managing associates are:
  • Eleanor Robinson, private client – West Bridgford
  • Kiran Phagura, conveyancing – Leicester
  • Lucy Walsh, conveyancing – Derby
  • Ruth Tarr, mental capacity and court of protection – Nottingham
  • Sarah Soo, private client – West Bridgford
In addition, four solicitors have been promoted to the position of senior associate:
  • Amy Moore, commercial property – Leicester
  • Emma Adcock, family law – West Bridgford
  • Marneya Chauhan, commercial property – Leicester
  • Sade Love, conveyancing – Nottingham
Six solicitors have also been recognised with promotion to associate:
  • Abbey Freeman, conveyancing – West Bridgford
  • Arron Halait, corporate – Leicester
  • Emily Sherwood, family/child care – Nottingham
  • Georgina Power, transport – Nottingham
  • Jasmin Marshall, private client – Mapperley
  • Sarah Singh, private client – West Bridgford
Christina Yardley, CEO at Rothera Bray, said: “These promotions are a reflection of the outstanding talent, dedication, and professionalism we are proud to foster at Rothera Bray. “Each individual has demonstrated not only exceptional legal expertise but also a commitment to client service and teamwork that truly embodies our firm’s values. We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued success in their new roles.”

IMA Architects extends backing of Leicestershire women’s county cricket team

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IMA Architects extends backing of Leicestershire women’s county cricket team
Leicestershire-based industrial and commercial architects, IMA Architects has announced its ongoing support for Leicestershire County Cricket Club and its women’s team, The Foxes, as a shirt sleeve sponsor. This is the second year running that IMA has supported The Foxes, who will compete on three fronts this summer, as they bid to secure silverware in T20 Vitality Blast League 2, Metro Bank One Day Cup League 2 and the Vitality T20 Women’s County Cup. Led by captain Becki Brooker, Leicestershire recently named a 17-strong squad, boasts returning stars and a host of exciting additions from across the country. IMA and Leicestershire County Cricket Club (LCCC) have a long-standing partnership, following a series of projects to improve the facilities at the Uptonsteel County Ground. Ahead of the new season, IMA successfully delivered a new changing places facility and multi-faith room, as well as upgrading the Boardroom into an away team dressing room and providing new Umpire facilities. This led to LCCC winning the award for the ‘Best Development or New Facility Under £500,000’ at the 2024 Business of Cricket Awards. During a previous season, IMA also redeveloped LCCC’s changing rooms, providing the team with first class facilities in which to prepare for their games. The changing rooms have been extended, with improved shower facilities installed. Ben Hall, managing director of IMA Architects, said: “We’re pleased to build on our partnership with LCCC again this year by sponsoring The Foxes as they start their first season as a Tier Two County team. “LCCC’s commitment to improving Uptonsteel County Ground and making it a top-class facility for its own squads and visiting teams has been impressive and we’re proud to have played a part in supporting its ongoing both on and off the field.”

Inflation drop does little to ease pricing strain on East Midlands firms

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Inflation drop does little to ease pricing strain on East Midlands firms

Despite a modest fall in UK inflation to 3.4% in May, businesses in the East Midlands are still under pressure to raise prices, according to regional insights from East Midlands Chamber.

The Office for National Statistics’ latest inflation estimate remains well above the Bank of England’s 2% target, adding further uncertainty for firms facing cost increases from higher employer National Insurance contributions and the recent rise in the National Living Wage.

Data from the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey shows that half of local businesses expect to raise prices in the coming months, with inflation ranking as one of their top concerns. This pricing pressure is compounded by continued hesitancy around interest rate cuts, as the Bank of England weighs inflationary trends.

While recent government investment in areas like AI, skills development, and apprenticeships offers some longer-term optimism, the Chamber says any upcoming fiscal decisions must be carefully costed to avoid worsening already difficult trading conditions.

Real-world driver training strengthened through heritage rail partnership

April Lara
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Real-world driver training strengthened through heritage rail partnership

East Midlands Railway (EMR) is expanding its hands-on training for driver apprentices through a growing collaboration with the Great Central Railway (GCR), a heritage rail line operating between Loughborough and Leicester North.

The partnership enables EMR apprentices to train on GCR’s line using Class 153 units, providing practical instruction that simulators cannot replicate. This includes real-time exercises on gradients, power adjustments, and managing speed, all under the supervision of qualified EMR trainers.

Originally, the heritage line was used by EMR to simulate onboard scenarios for guards, including emergency procedures and customer service situations. These controlled, real-time simulations allowed for safe learning without disrupting live rail services.

With the addition of Class 153 units, the training scope has expanded to include systems such as power-operated doors, providing apprentices with experience directly applicable to the EMR fleet. EMR trainers underwent route familiarisation and safety assessments under GCR’s standards to ensure seamless delivery.

Both organisations have conducted safety validations to uphold rigorous training standards. Feedback from apprentices has been strongly positive, highlighting the effectiveness of learning in a realistic setting.

EMR and GCR are now exploring further enhancements to the driving programme, aiming to equip apprentices with the skills required for long-term careers in the rail sector.

Merger sees Streets expand North West presence

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Merger sees Streets expand North West presence
Streets, a Lincolnshire accountancy, audit, assurance and advisory practice, has announced a new merger with the Burnley-based firm MacMahon Leggate. The merger sees MacMahon Leggate become part of Streets. It also further extends Streets’ footprint across the North West, adding to its growing number of offices nationally. The merger coincides with the launch of Streets’ refreshed brand and visual identity. Richard Robinson, director at Streets MacMahon Leggate, said: “Merging with Streets is a hugely positive move for both our clients and our team. As a larger, people-centric firm with a small-office feel, Streets gives us the backing and bandwidth to offer clients an even more proactive, tailored and knowledgeable service with faster response times and a broader range of expertise. “For our clients in Burnley and East Lancashire, the merger opens the door to a truly comprehensive advisory service. Everything from business start-up support to scale up advice, corporate and personal life tax planning, and personal wealth management is now available under one roof. “Our team is equally excited about the future as they now have the opportunity to learn from a multidisciplinary group of professionals, progress their careers locally, and collaborate with like-minded colleagues who share a clear purpose and vision. “Personally, joining Streets gives me the support of a dynamic, growing team and the freedom to focus on what I do best, building lasting business relationships and helping clients thrive.” Paul Tutin, chairman and managing partner, Streets, said: “We are delighted to welcome Richard and his team to Streets. Their well-established presence in Burnley and East Lancashire aligns perfectly with our strategic vision for the North West, and the merger complements our growing number of regional offices. “We see great synergy and shared values in the way MacMahon Leggate supports its clients, and it is especially pleasing that we can build on this strong local reputation while offering broader advisory services and greater opportunities for growth. “This merger also comes at an exciting time as we unveil our new brand, a clear signal of our commitment to evolve while staying true to our values with independent ownership, people-focused service and a dedication to supporting clients and communities across the UK.” As part of the merger process, Streets Law – the firm’s specialist legal services arm – advised on all corporate aspects of the deal, working closely with internal colleagues across tax and audit.

Bank of England holds interest rates at 4.25%

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Bank of England holds interest rates at 4.25%
The Bank of England has held interest rates at 4.25%, in line with expectations. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which sets monetary policy to meet the 2% inflation target, voted 6 to 3 in favour of leaving rates unchanged. Three members preferred to cut rates to 4%.
Alpesh Paleja, deputy chief economist, CBI, said: “Today’s pause on interest rates is a pit stop on the way down. While inflation is likely to be bumpy over the next few months, we expect that the Monetary Policy Committee will look through this. Price pressures are gradually waning as the MPC predicted and downside risks to inflation are growing, particularly as the labour market looks to be cooling more decisively. “Nonetheless, there is still entrenched concern among some of the MPC about the persistence of underlying price pressures. The Committee will likely want to see further evidence that indicators of domestic inflationary pressure are easing – particularly wage growth, which remains higher than the MPC would like. They will also have one eye on whether renewed conflict in the Middle East will cause an oil price shock, which would have the potential to push up inflation even further. “The balance of all these factors reinforces our view that while the Bank will reduce interest rates further, they will do so gradually. We expect the MPC to cut rates three more times, bringing Bank rate to 3.5% early next year.”

UK government backs £25m conservation hub at Twycross Zoo

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UK government backs £25m conservation hub at Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo is set to launch a new £25 million Global Conservation Centre, bolstered by £18 million in government funding. Positioned as the UK’s largest-ever public investment in a zoo, the facility aims to become a central hub for international conservation efforts, scientific research, and education.

The site will host a 200-seat lecture theatre overlooking a new Bornean orangutan habitat, research labs, wildlife classrooms, and on-site accommodation for visiting scientists and students. The initiative involves collaboration with eight leading UK universities and is expected to open by late 2026.

In addition to supporting global biodiversity, the centre is designed to generate regional economic value. Estimates suggest that the project will create 90 direct jobs and inject £3.9 million of Gross Value Added (GVA) annually into the local economy.

A new Indonesian-themed zoo zone will open alongside the centre, featuring habitats for threatened species and linked education programmes. Twycross Zoo is also expanding its conservation work in Indonesia through partnerships with Borneo Nature Foundation and Action Indonesia.

The centre supports Twycross Zoo’s wider 2030 strategy, which targets reversing IUCN Red List status for 15 species. Construction begins in June 2025, establishing the Midlands as a growing centre of applied conservation expertise.

Redevelopment of Nottingham Forest’s City Ground takes step forward

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Redevelopment of Nottingham Forest’s City Ground takes step forward
Revised plans for the redevelopment of Nottingham Forest’s City Ground have taken a significant step forward, with approval recommended for the proposals ahead of a planning committee meeting next week (26th June). The hybrid scheme comprises a full planning application for the redevelopment of the Peter Taylor stand (including the demolition of existing buildings/structures), new public realm, a replacement club shop, and car parking, and an outline planning application for up to 170 residential units. This application was originally received by Rushcliffe Borough Council in November 2019, with a final revised scheme presented to the planning committee in July 2022. Notable revisions were made, related to the reduction in scale of the residential aspect, the introduction of commercial uses to the residential building, the re-provision of the club shop within the stand, and technical work to demonstrate impacts of the development could be adequately mitigated and controlled. While, at the time, planning committee meeting members resolved to allow the granting of planning permission, subject to conditions, due to the extended passage of time that has elapsed, it has been considered necessary to return the application to the planning committee for fresh consideration. The plans will see the demolition of the Peter Taylor Stand, Champion Centre, Club Shop, associated outbuildings, and NRC’s Britannia Boathouse building, and the development of a new stand with capacity for 10,000 seats, including associated stadium facilities and a new club shop. The proposal would increase the overall capacity of the existing stand by around 5,000 seats. The replacement stand would also accommodate business and commercial activities. The replacement stand would continue to be accessed from Pavilion Road, but a new plaza would be created between the proposed replacement stand and the proposed residential building. The residential element would offer 170 apartments over 13 floors, with seven commercial units on the ground floor. Issuing a joint statement, Nottingham Forest and Rushcliffe Borough Council said: “Nottingham Forest has been in regular dialogue with Rushcliffe Borough Council, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council regarding the redevelopment of the City Ground. “The parties can confirm they are working towards the Rushcliffe Borough Council Planning Committee date of Thursday 26 June to consider the application. There will be no further comment other than as required by the relevant legal process.”

New homes prioritise affordability and sustainability in Derbyshire

April Lara
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New homes prioritise affordability and sustainability in Derbyshire

Work is progressing on a £14.5 million affordable housing scheme in Sandiacre, Derbyshire, led by Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) in partnership with Moorbridge Developments. The 53-home development sits across Gas Street near the River Erewash and Erewash Canal, close to the Grade II-listed Springfield Mill.

The project includes 22 shared ownership homes and 31 for affordable rent, all managed through Erewash Borough Council’s Home Options system. Properties will range from two to four bedrooms and are designed with high energy performance in mind. Each unit features solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, private gardens, and allocated parking. All homes are built to EPC A rating using a fabric-first construction method to improve energy efficiency and reduce running costs.

NCHA’s delivery is supported by funding from Homes England as part of a strategic push to expand affordable housing across the East Midlands through 2028. The site, designed by Urban Plus and built by Moorbridge Developments, aims to blend sustainability with the area’s industrial heritage.

Construction has already started, with the first homes expected to be ready by autumn. Full project completion is scheduled for summer 2026.

Planning document approved to make it easier to ‘green’ new Nottingham developments

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Planning document approved to make it easier to ‘green’ new Nottingham developments
Formal approval has been granted for a planning document to make new developments in Nottingham more environmentally-friendly. Senior councillors on the city council’s Executive Board gave the green light to the Reduction of Carbon in New Development Supplementary Planning Document (Carbon SPD) on Tuesday (17 June). SPDs add further detail to policies in Nottingham’s Local Plan. They can be used to provide guidance for development on specific sites or on particular issues, and are a material consideration in planning decisions but not part of the statutory Local Plan. The aim of the one approved, which was created in partnership with Broxtowe Borough Council, is to promote the reduction of carbon in new developments at the earliest design stage when this can be of no cost, or low cost, to developers. It will help the council to raise profile of the global climate crisis and encourage those companies building in Nottingham to support lower carbon use and long-term costs. The Carbon SPD forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce energy demand, improve energy efficiency and enhance the use of renewables in new developments. It explains how new developments can meet these requirements through:
  • Energy and carbon reduction: strategies include passive design and passive cooling (which minimise energy consumption and reduce heat gain), incorporation of green and blue infrastructure (how natural and semi-natural areas are connected), enhancing building energy efficiency, utilising low-carbon heat sources and technologies, and integrating renewable energy
  • Sustainable construction: Emphasis is placed on the prudent use of materials, including the reuse and recycling of materials, sustainable material selection, reducing embodied carbon, and promoting building reuse and retrofit
Councillor Jay Hayes, executive member for housing and planning at Nottingham City Council, said: “This is a really important document that officers have worked on jointly with colleagues at Broxtowe and I’m pleased that we’ve been able to approve it today at Executive Board. “We’ve made a commitment as a city to jointly deliver carbon neutrality by 2028 and have been clear from the outset that’s not something that the council can do by itself. We need local organisations and industries to help – and developers are key to that. “It can be a complex area for them to navigate but the Carbon SPD will help developers explain to our Planning Committee how they will be reducing carbon use during and after construction. “This is a win-win situation really because it allows developers to showcase their environmental credentials and understanding of how traditional building methods must change and adapt. At the same time, it helps both ourselves and Broxtowe work towards our carbon-neutral aims.”

£22m Castleward deal brings build-to-rent to Derby regeneration

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£22m Castleward deal brings build-to-rent to Derby regeneration

A £22 million deal has been finalised for the fourth phase of Derby’s Castleward regeneration scheme, introducing build-to-rent (BTR) housing for the first time in the development’s history.

The agreement brings together Lovell Partnerships and BTR developer-operator Placefirst, marking Lovell’s first BTR venture in the East Midlands. The deal extends Lovell’s role as lead contractor at Castleward, which is the city’s flagship £100 million regeneration project.

Placefirst has acquired two plots from Compendium Living that will deliver 33 single-family rental homes and 79 apartments. The handover of the first properties is scheduled for Q1 2026.

Located between Derby Midland Station and Derbion shopping centre, Castleward is set to deliver around 800 homes, commercial space, and green infrastructure by completion. The scheme plays a central role in the city’s residential pipeline and urban revitalisation strategy.

This latest phase signals growing institutional appetite for suburban BTR stock in the Midlands, underlining demand for professionally managed rental housing in regeneration-led zones.

Beth Bundonis, regional managing director at Lovell in the East Midlands, said: “Our vital work to create purposeful communities and bring forward effective housing in the East Midlands continues, with phase four – and the forthcoming phase five – adding to the vital regeneration of Derby and creating a lasting legacy built around top-quality housing. “This deal allows us to broaden the scope of what’s being delivered in Castleward and is a first for Lovell in the East Midlands, helping to solidify us as an enabler of housing choice for the fantastic partners we work with. “Through those such as Placefirst and Compendium Living – the latter of which has sold homes under the previous three phases – we’re able to make sure that whether they are looking to rent or buy, people can find a new home at Castleward.” Henry Marshall, investment director at Placefirst, said: “This latest partnership with Lovell marks an exciting milestone for Placefirst as we continue to grow our presence in the East Midlands – a region with huge demand for high-quality, sensitively-designed rental homes in well-connected, vibrant locations. “This forward-funded deal is a great example of how we work flexibly with partners to unlock opportunities and bring long-term, professionally managed homes to market – just one of a number of delivery models we employ.”

New social housing gets go-ahead on derelict Mansfield site

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New social housing gets go-ahead on derelict Mansfield site

Plans to transform a long-derelict area of Mansfield town centre into social housing have been given the go-ahead.

The regeneration scheme on White Hart Street has been approved by Mansfield District Council’s Planning Committee. The £18m development will breathe new life into the site, delivering 60 affordable homes, revitalising heritage buildings into commercial spaces, and reconnecting the area with the wider town centre. The new council homes will offer a mix of property types, including family houses and apartments for older residents. The work is expected to begin in winter 2025 and be completed in 2028. Councillor Stuart Richardson, portfolio holder for regeneration and skills, said: “Our White Hart Street scheme strikes a careful balance between preserving Mansfield’s rich architectural heritage and delivering much-needed regeneration. “We’re creating a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood that both celebrates our industrial past and responds to the housing and community needs of today. “This site has remained derelict for far too long and has struggled to attract private investment. It’s been crying out for a bold, deliverable vision – and this is exactly that. “I’m thrilled we can now move forward with this transformational scheme that will not only provide high-quality council homes but also reinvigorate a key part of our town centre for the benefit of residents, businesses, and visitors alike.” The design for the scheme was developed by Proctor and Matthews Architects, who were selected following a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) international design competition in 2023, commissioned by the council to ensure a distinctive and high-quality architectural approach. Harrison Symonds, senior associate and architect at Proctor and Matthews, said: “Our proposals for White Hart Street set a benchmark for brownfield town centre regeneration. The design integrates and revitalises key heritage buildings to form community spaces at the heart of the development. “The new mixed-use quarter celebrates the rich history of Mansfield while responding to the intricate grain and sensitively repairing the urban fabric. “The support given by Mansfield’s planning committee will serve as a catalyst for the regeneration of the town and provide much needed affordable housing.”

Economic risk from cyber breaches rising fast as M&S-style attacks are just the beginning

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Economic risk from cyber breaches rising fast as M&S-style attacks are just the beginning
Large businesses in the Midlands are increasingly exposed to cyberattacks, with fresh data showing a clear link between company size and breach frequency – but experts are warning that smaller firms may be dangerously underestimating the threat. According to the latest Azets Barometer, just 41% of large UK businesses avoided cybersecurity incidents in the past year, compared to 65% of smaller firms. Meanwhile, 13% of companies with revenues over £10 million reported multiple breaches. The biannual survey, conducted by international business advisory group Azets, reveals a growing concentration of cyber risk in specific sectors. In finance, fewer than four in ten firms avoided breaches in the past 12 months. In retail and hospitality – a sector rocked by high-profile incidents – 43% stayed incident-free, with more than a third suffering at least one attack. By contrast, lower-risk sectors like construction (80%) and healthcare (76%) reported significantly fewer breaches. The findings come just weeks after Marks & Spencer disclosed a cyberattack expected to wipe £300 million from this year’s profits, with systems remaining disrupted for over a month. The Co-op, Harrods, and Adidas have also suffered recent attacks, highlighting the real-world impact of digital exposure. Across all UK businesses, 58% reported no cybersecurity incidents, above the European average of 50%. About 26% suffered one breach, and 9% had multiple, compared to 11% EU-wide. By revenue, the data shows a clear trend that as businesses grow and data volumes increase, so too does the frequency and impact of cyber incidents. Paul Kelly, head of cyber and data privacy services at Azets, said: “The findings revealed in the latest Azets Barometer show a worrying trend for ongoing cyber-attacks on the UK’s larger, data-heavy organisations. This underscores the need for continued focus on cyber resilience, especially in higher risk sectors. “Even though the majority of smaller organisations report no incidents, it’s a matter of when cybersecurity incidents occur, not if. Smaller organisations must continue to be vigilant and invest in cyber resilience measures to reduce the risk of incidents occurring.”

Eco-friendly school rebuild gets green light in multi-million-pound project

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Eco-friendly school rebuild gets green light in multi-million-pound project
An eco-friendly secondary school for 1,280 pupils will be built in Erewash under plans given the go-ahead by the borough council. The multi-million-pound project – featuring grassy rooftops with solar panels – will see Sandiacre’s outdated Friesland School almost completely demolished along with the former Friesland Leisure Centre, which is on the same site. A brand new net zero campus will host 31 classrooms and teaching areas, along with a drama studio, library, dining hall, sports hall and fitness suite. A replacement main school block will rise to three storeys. The project follows the closure of the site’s Friesland Leisure Centre. Only three buildings currently on the campus would remain – the science and technology block, the sixth form block and the performing arts block. An all-weather pitch and multi-use games area will also be kept, along with three football pitches – but the plans include the installation of amphitheatre-type outdoor seating. This is in addition to a fenced recovery garden for pupils who feel they need a quiet space. There will also be a separate “SEND garden” for those with special educational needs. Cllr Mark Alfrey, who is Erewash’s lead member for environment, said after the planning committee gave the green light: “I am pleased to see the development of Friesland School’s new campus, a transformative development project designed to support both education and sustainability. “The new facilities will include environmental adaptations such as grass rooftops, solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations. “A recovery garden and SEND garden will be included to offer an outdoor calming environment. These types of gardens are designed to stimulate the senses and provide ‘hopeful’ places to rest and process emotions. “Replacing the main school block, the new development will feature a library, dining hall and fitness suite – providing a tremendous boost for the students of Sandiacre. “Additionally, the upgraded sport facilities will significantly enhance opportunities for wider community engagement – promoting healthier and more active lifestyles from an early age. “This exciting project underscores a commitment to fostering an inspiring, sustainable and inclusive learning environment for current and future generations.”

Loughborough hydrogen fuel cell manufacturer secures £17m programme to power zero-emission flight

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Loughborough hydrogen fuel cell manufacturer secures £17m programme to power zero-emission flight
Intelligent Energy (IE), a Loughborough-based hydrogen fuel cell manufacturer, has secured a £17m programme to fast-track development of a new zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell system that could be powering commercial aircraft within the decade. The award is from the ATI Programme, a partnership between the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), the Department for Business & Trade and Innovate UK. It will support Project HEIGHTS – a three-year drive to develop IE’s current 300kW modular aviation fuel cell platform for use in next-generation aircraft. Initial applications include Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and short-range commuter planes. IE’s new fuel cell system – IE-FLIGHT™ 300 – is expected to enter early service in Part 23 aircraft (with up to 19 seats) by the end of the decade, with scale-up plans targeting larger (Part 25) regional aircraft in the 2030s. The investment comes as aviation faces rising pressure to cut emissions. A switch to fuel cell systems across eVTOL, sub-regional and regional aircraft, as well as Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) on larger aircraft, could reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 25.6 million tonnes per year. IE estimates the total market value – encompassing both sales and servicing revenue – is £19.6 billion, and scaling up production could create as many as 1,600 new jobs. David Woolhouse, Intelligent Energy CEO, said: “This programme is about getting hydrogen-powered aircraft in the air, and into service at scale, as quickly as possible. “We firmly believe that hydrogen will be the primary energy source for flight, initially for smaller aircraft but in the longer term for everything that flies. At Intelligent Energy, we have the IP built on 24 years’ experience to give us confidence that we can be the technical leader in this sector. This project supports us in making our modular system even smaller, lighter and more scalable.” The project will be supported by the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), Coventry University and the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC). The funding announcement marks a significant milestone for IE’s aviation division. In February, the company was named as a strategic partner in the Civil Aviation Authority’s Hydrogen Challenge programme. IE is also expanding its UK operations. In addition to its manufacturing base in Loughborough, the company is enhancing its test and validation capabilities with a new £7.1 million fuel cell test centre opening this summer in Northamptonshire.

East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025: “We would really encourage companies to consider applying to these awards,” says Marketing Derby

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East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025: “We would really encourage companies to consider applying to these awards,” says Marketing Derby
As Business Link’s East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 draws closer, marking 10 years of the event, Marketing Derby is encouraging businesses to enter. John Forkin, managing director at Marketing Derby, said: “This year, in particular, Derby has seen some major regeneration projects come to fruition, including Vaillant Live and Derby Market Hall – and later this year, we will see the opening of the University of Derby’s Cavendish Building, which will be the new home of its Business School. “There is so much great work going on in the built environment and we would really encourage companies to consider applying to these awards.” The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrates the successes of the property and construction industry in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. With nominations for the prestigious event now open, it is the ideal time to make your submissions, ahead of the deadline – Friday 15th August. Entering a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, bolster morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony and networking event, which will welcome Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here, or on the category headings below.

Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries.
New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                        

To be held at:

With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.
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