Loughborough College wins sustainability award for pioneering green education project

Loughborough College has been named the winner of the Sustainability Project category at the Midlands Sustainability Excellence Awards 2025, held at Edgbaston Park Hotel. The award recognises the College’s ground breaking work through the East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT), a trailblazing initiative dedicated to driving sustainability in education, infrastructure, and industry collaboration. The EMIoT, housed within Loughborough College, was honoured for its innovative approach to embedding sustainability into every aspect of its operations. The project was supported by a £9.6m DfE grant investment and is designed as a low-energy facility, featuring solar panels, advanced insulation, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and heat pump technology. These features all contribute significantly to the institution’s net zero ambitions. “We are incredibly proud to be recognised for our commitment to sustainable education,” said Dale Richardson, director of estates and sustainability at Loughborough College. “This award is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students, and industry partners who are working together to build a cleaner, greener future.” Key highlights of the EMIoT’s sustainability project include:
  • £6.5 million secured from the IoT Innovation Fund to support green skills development.
  • A curriculum driven by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
  • Plans to train 2,000 students by 2027 in clean energy and digital sectors.
  • Strong partnerships with leading businesses in construction, energy, and manufacturing.
By creating inclusive, forward-thinking learning environments and fostering deep industry ties, Loughborough College is equipping the next generation with the green and digital skills necessary to address global climate challenges. With its vision set firmly on becoming the UK’s leading hub for green skills and sustainable technologies, Loughborough College’s EMIoT continues to pave the way for environmentally responsible education and industry transformation. The project design was developed by Race Cottam Associates and delivered on site by Lindum Construction. Lindum Construction manager, Mark Robertson said: “This award recognises the high level of commitment Loughborough College has to sustainable education and Lindum is proud to have been their chosen construction partner in creating their pioneering new Institute of Technology building. “We are pleased to have delivered the building which has a low energy demand, with highly efficient passive design features and building services systems. Technologies incorporated include mechanical ventilation with heat recovery and heat pumps for heating and hot water. These technologies, plus solar panels on the roof, are compatible with a net zero carbon future. “As a regional construction Company, Lindum continues to strive to improve its sustainability performance and we look forward to hopefully employing some of the highly skilled graduates that the EMIoT will produce in the future, helping to advance our understanding and practical appliance of greener technologies.” Carl Hubbard, director at sustainable MEP design consultancy CPW, added: “I am so pleased to see this project recognised. Loughborough College has been truly dedicated to creating a highly efficient, low carbon building – we are proud to have worked alongside them to support on the journey to a net zero carbon future, championing passive design features and a fabric-first approach.” The East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) is an innovative partnership between Loughborough College, Derby College Group, Loughborough University and the University of Derby.

Solar farm approved near M1 services in Northamptonshire

A new solar development has been approved for an 18-acre site near the M1 Watford Gap services, positioning it close to key transport infrastructure and existing warehousing.

The site, located near the A5 corridor and adjacent to operational wind turbines, will host over 15,000 solar panels. Once operational, the array is expected to generate up to 6 megawatts of renewable electricity, sufficient to supply approximately 2,100 homes.

West Northamptonshire Council’s strategic planning committee approved the proposal without objections. The visual impact was deemed minimal due to the surrounding industrial landscape.

The site, previously used for livestock grazing, will continue to support sheep alongside the solar infrastructure, integrating renewable energy generation with agricultural use.

The project adds to the region’s growing portfolio of onshore renewable energy assets, contributing to the UK’s broader decarbonisation targets and domestic energy production.

Electrical engineering giant moves into new 100,000 sq ft facility at Fairham Business Park

Fairham Business Park in Nottingham, developed by Clowes Developments, is welcoming a major new occupier: global technology leader ABB. The 100,000 sq ft building, designed by IMA Architects and built by TanRo, will accommodate ABB’s growing demand for Furse earthing and lightning protection solutions. It incorporates advanced technology, flexible automation, R&D and testing capabilities, and digital systems to increase production capacity, improve efficiency, and support sustainable manufacturing. More than 100 employees will relocate to the new site from ABB’s existing Nottingham premises, continuing the company’s deep local heritage—Furse was founded in Nottingham in 1893, and ABB has operated in the city for over a century. ABB’s new facility is built to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards, featuring photovoltaic rooftop panels, electric vehicle charging points, energy-efficient systems, and waste-reduction processes. James Richards, development director at Clowes Developments and Fairham Business Park, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome ABB to Fairham Business Park. Their investment validates the site’s exceptional location, diverse occupier mix, and top-tier industrial units. As we launch the next phase of development, we look forward to delivering even more opportunities.” Tim Gilbertson, FHP Property Consultants, added: “This is a landmark deal for Nottingham. ABB needed a first-class, future-ready facility close to the city but outside the parking levy. Fairham offered the ideal solution. We’re proud to have supported ABB’s continued growth in the region.”

17,000 East Midlands jobs at risk as family businesses respond to inheritance tax change

More than 17,000 jobs could go across the East Midlands as the owners of family businesses and farms respond to changes in inheritance tax announced in last year’s Budget. New research from Family Business UK (FBUK), supported by 32 trade associations and conducted by CBI Economics, reveals the full impact of changes to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) on the East Midlands economy. It shows that 17,183 FTE jobs could be lost across the region, a reduction of more than 8.5% driven by the decision of business owners to cut investment by more than 16%. The cuts will be felt directly in businesses and farms, and across their supply chains reducing activity and turnover. The research suggests that across the East Midlands businesses affected by BPR could see turnover fall by 10.2% and those affected by APR by 11.7% – putting the region amongst the worst affected across the UK. Overall, the loss of jobs and investment could cut economic activity (GVA) across the East Midlands by more than £1 billion (£1.068bn). Neil Davy, CEO, Family Business UK, said: “This latest research shows just how far-reaching, and immediate, the impact of these policy changes is. No industry, sector, region or parliamentary constituency will be immune. “In construction, services, manufacturing, tourism, transport, agriculture and horticulture, family business owners are responding to the changes to BPR and APR by tearing up long-term plans to invest in their businesses, their employees and the communities in which they are based. “While parts of government are looking at how to boost regional growth and create opportunities in every sector of the economy, this research shows how changes to BPR and APR will achieve the exact opposite. “Within our diverse and rapidly changing economy, family business owners have been building Britain for generations. If they are to continue to do so, with confidence in the future, the Government must urgently reconsider these policy changes.” Steve Rigby, chair of FBUK and co-CEO of Midlands-based Rigby Group, said: “Without doubt these tax changes will hit UK businesses hard, particularly in the Midlands. We are at the eleventh hour, but it is still not too late for the Government to reconsider solutions that would generate tax without threatening the future growth prospects of family businesses. “More than half of family-owned businesses have reported halting or cancelling investments, with many now contemplating the sale of their firms to mitigate the financial burden. “Business in the Midlands are already facing many challenges and it is no wonder it is one of the worst affected by these changes. We hope that the Government will act on Family Business UK’s important findings.” Family businesses play a vital role in the economy accounting for nine out of every ten private sector firms. BPR and APR are critical to family businesses. The changes announced in the Budget mean that from April 2026 family business owners will have to pay 20% inheritance tax on their business and agricultural assets when they die. Since the Government announced the changes, family business owners have taken immediate steps to mitigate the cost of the policy change. At a UK level, the research shows:
  • Over 60% of businesses anticipate reducing investment by more than 20%, with average investment declines of 15.8% (APR) and 15.5% (BPR).
  • Around a quarter (23%) have reduced headcount due to BPR and APR changes.
  • Business restructuring is a growing concern: Around 1 in 5 are considering downsizing under both BPR and APR, with up to 12% contemplating a sale.
  • Reduced community support: 15% (BPR) and 12% (APR) of businesses have cut charitable donations or community activities, which will impact vital local initiatives.
Across the UK, by 2030, the changes to BPR and APR could lead to:
  • 208,500 jobs losses from family businesses and across their supply chains
  • £14.86 billion less economic activity (GVA) – almost equivalent to the value of UK motor vehicle manufacturing (£15.7bn GVA)
  • a £1.87 billion net fiscal loss to government
Family businesses operate in every sector of the economy and the latest research demonstrates the widespread impact of the change to BPR and APR. Sectors expected to see the steepest cuts to investment include Accommodation and Food Services (-17%), Construction (-17%), Agriculture and Horticulture (-17%), Manufacturing (-16%), Real Estate activities (-16%), Retail and Wholesale; repair of motor vehicles (-15%). For those affected by APR, investment is likely to fall most in agriculture and horticulture, with average cuts of around 17%, Accommodation and Food Services (-16%) and Real Estate activities (-16%).

Silverstone Soccer sees splendid support

With the event drawing closer, all team spaces are now filled for the sixth annual Silverstone Soccer charity event, in aid of Cynthia Spencer Hospice. The popular five-a-side footballer fundraiser, hosted by Northampton-based company Silverstone Leasing, will be held at Daventry Town Football Club on Sunday 22nd June. Ten determined teams of footballers will don their boots to compete for the much-coveted winners title in the tournament pitch battles, while spectators can enjoy family fun including Scott’s Soapy Suds charity car wash, kids bouncy castle, display cars and refreshments. The Silverstone Leasing team are hoping for a record-breaking year, after already raising thousands of pounds for Cynthia Spencer Hospice through the sporting event, as well as numerous other fundraisers. And it has kicked off in the right way, with leading businesses in the town publicly supporting the tournament, either by entering a team or through vital sponsorship. This year’s four corporate sponsors are Acorn Analytical Services, KCI Complete Office Solutions, Wilson Browne Solicitors, and BMW Wollaston. Organiser of the event and Silverstone Leasing team manager Ryan Bishop said: “I am delighted at the response from our community for our sixth Silverstone Soccer event. It has become a really impactful and well received fundraiser which makes such a huge difference to the hospice, a cause really close to all our hearts that does the most incredible work in our county. “Thanks to our sponsors and to Daventry Town Football Club for helping to make the event happen, we are very grateful of your invaluable support. “I hope the local community will come along on the day, to cheer on our teams and join in with the family fun on offer. You can help make our event the biggest and best we’ve ever achieved.”

Nottingham College opens £250k green skills training hub

Nottingham College has launched a £250,000 Green Skills Centre at its Basford campus, aiming to address regional skills shortages in construction and renewable energy. The facility, located within the Nottingham Sustainability Enterprise Centre, features live training bays for technologies such as solar PV, battery storage, air source heat pumps, EV charging systems, and solar thermal solutions.

The new centre expands the college’s existing green skills training provision, complementing its Gas Centre and EV technology courses, which are delivered across its campuses. It is expected to support the UK’s wider net-zero transition by preparing learners with practical experience in low-carbon technologies.

Developed with input from industry partners including Quantum Training, the centre is part of a broader strategy to meet rising demand for green talent across sectors such as construction, engineering, and energy. It also aligns with government housing targets and carbon reduction commitments.

The investment supports a growing need for workforce development as employers seek candidates equipped with green skills in both new builds and retrofit projects. The college’s initiative positions it as a regional contributor to the upskilling efforts needed for the UK’s low-carbon transition.

Infrastructure funding targets Lincolnshire school and healthcare sites

A total of 18 schools across Lincolnshire will undergo repairs and upgrades as part of a government infrastructure initiative set to begin this summer and continue through to April next year. The funding is drawn from a wider £40 million allocation earmarked for schools throughout the East Midlands.

Projects include essential fire safety upgrades at Spalding Grammar School to prevent potential closure, as well as asbestos removal at Westgate Academy in Lincoln. Other recipients include Boston Grammar School, The King’s School in Grantham, and Branston Community Academy, reflecting a geographic spread of improvements across both primary and secondary institutions.

This round of investment signals continued public sector capital expenditure on essential facilities, with a focus on safety compliance and modernisation. For B2B service providers, particularly those in construction, engineering, compliance, and building materials, the pipeline of work offers partnership opportunities within government-backed programmes.

In parallel, the Pilgrim Hospital in Boston has been allocated £7 million for upgrades to its electrical systems and fire safety. Additionally, Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust will receive £750,000 for similar improvements across its estate, supporting the resilience of healthcare infrastructure.

These investments suggest a sustained demand for skilled contractors, compliance consultants, and building systems suppliers across the education and healthcare sectors.

New homes approved for key Northamptonshire development

West Northamptonshire Council has approved the construction of 278 new homes as part of the second phase of the Norwood Farm development, a large-scale housing project on the outskirts of Northampton.

The homes will be built between Harpole and Duston, within a site divided by New Sandy Lane. This phase comprises a mix of one- to four-bedroom units, with 139 units designated as affordable housing, which is significantly above the required provision.

Norwood Farm is a primary strategic site slated to deliver a total of 1,900 homes. In addition to housing, the development will include retail space, a school, and public green areas. Each property in the upcoming phase will consist of private parking, with additional visitor spaces planned.

The planning decision marks the first major development approved since Reform UK took leadership of the council following local elections.

The scheme forms part of the region’s broader push to meet housing demand and stimulate long-term economic growth. It is also expected to draw further interest from contractors and suppliers in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Phenna Group goes down under to snap up Civiltest

Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies, has made its 9th deal of 2025, acquiring its 15th business in the APAC region – Civiltest. The deal is complementary to Phenna’s acquisition of Australian Soil and Concrete Testing (ASCT) in November 2023, further strengthening its geotechnical and construction materials testing capabilities across Australia. Civiltest is a geotechnical engineering, consulting, and soil testing business that has been operating for over 30 years. Headquartered in Melbourne, it provides services throughout Victoria and Western Australia to the mining, infrastructure, commercial, and residential industries. Grant Gibbs, CEO of Civiltest, said: “We are very excited to be joining Phenna Group. We believe that Phenna provides the right partner to support our future growth aspirations. “Over the past three decades, we have built a strong business and feel that Phenna provides the right cultural fit to continue that growth. The engagement with the Phenna team has been very positive, and we look forward to working with Brett and his team.” Brett Coleman, divisional MD Asia at Phenna Group, said: “I am excited to welcome Grant and the team to Phenna Group. Over the past 30 years, Civiltest has built an enviable reputation for providing services and solutions to its customers. “Alongside ASCT, which we welcomed into the Group in late 2023, Civiltest further enhances our specialist geotechnical and materials testing offering across Australia. I look forward to working with Grant and his team to continue their exciting growth.” Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, added: “I am very pleased to welcome Civiltest to Phenna Group. Their experienced team and technical capability support and expand our fast-growing operations in the region. “Combined with the expertise of ASCT, we are building a powerful platform to serve the infrastructure and construction sectors across Australia. We look forward to supporting Grant and his team and seeing them continue their growth journey within Phenna Group.” Phenna Group were advised by RSM Melbourne and Squire Patton Boggs. Civiltest were advised by Shepard Webster & O’Neill and Carroll Goldsmith Lawyers.

Midlands identified as fraud hotspot

New data has identified the Midlands as a top fraud hotspot, with the region ranking as the UK’s third most prevalent for fraudulent activity by total value. Fraud totalling £24 million in value was reported in the region during 2024, according to BDO’s latest FraudTrack survey. This total includes a case against a Worcester-based supervisor, alleging around 4,000 fraudulent furlough claims totalling £7 million. Such false claims and overpayments ranked as the second largest granular fraud type by value nationally, totalling £60 million of reported frauds across the UK in 2024. Only London and the South East, and the North West, recorded higher levels of reported fraud value than the Midlands in 2024. Nationwide, money laundering was the largest overall type of fraud and economic crime by value, with the average value of individual cases jumping 10-fold versus the previous year. BDO’s research found that money laundering cases totalled £337 million, representing 61% of the total 2024 reported value of fraud and economic crime. Overall, the value of reported fraud and economic crime in the UK fell 76% compared to 2023 amid a 63% drop in high-value fraud cases. The fall in fraud values broadly follows the five-year downward trend in reported fraud. While money laundering represented the highest number of frauds by value, ‘non-corporate fraud’ such as phishing scams and identity theft were the most common fraud type by number, representing 41% of fraud cases reported in 2024. Commenting on the latest report, Ian Bennington, partner and national lead for governance, risk and compliance services, said: “While there are some signs of optimism in our data – notably the decline in overall reported fraud values on a national scale – it’s important that we identify regional hotspots to develop more effective fraud prevention and detection strategies. “The latest edition of our FraudTrack survey highlights that fraud is not evenly distributed across the UK, with the Midlands coming out as the third most prevalent region for fraudulent activity. “By better understanding the dynamics and propensity of fraudulent activities in the region, we can help businesses become better prepared in the face of evolving threats. Indeed, regional fraud trends are something businesses should pay particularly close attention to given that, from September this year, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) introduces a new corporate criminal offence for failing to prevent fraud.” The failure to prevent fraud offence to be introduced under ECCTA is designed to incentivise large organisations to step up their fraud prevention strategies by holding organisations criminally responsible for failing to prevent fraud committed by their employees or associates for the organisation’s benefit. The BDO Fraud Survey 2024 found that 78% of business had begun preparing for the legislation, with 43% reporting an increase in fraud awareness. Sat Plaha, partner and head of regional forensic services, continued: “It’s encouraging to see organisations taking ECCTA seriously and enhancing their fraud risk management strategies accordingly. However, there are still many businesses that are underprepared and will need to take urgent action to ensure they are compliant.”

East Midlands leads UK business confidence in May

Business confidence in the East Midlands was the highest of any UK nation or region in May, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in the region reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 29 points at 67%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up 31 points to 66%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 66% (vs. 36% in April). A net balance of 44% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up six points on last month. Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as entering new markets (61%), evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products and services (50%) and investing in their team, for example through training (47%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall, UK business confidence increased 11 points in May to 50% – its highest level since August 2024. Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects strengthened six points to 56%, while their confidence in the wider economy also climbed 16 points to 44%. The North East (65%) was the second-most confident UK nation or region in May. Sector insights Construction firms’ confidence rose to a nine-month high of 56%, while those in the service sector reported a one-year high of 54%. Manufacturing confidence also rose by two points to 40%. However, retail confidence fell by five points to 40%, the lowest level since January this year. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds, said: “It’s fantastic to see local confidence grow, to the extent that the East Midlands is now leading the country. “We’ll continue to support local firms as they work to translate this outlook into action and long-term growth – whether that’s through advice, insight or lending.”

526 new homes get green light for Boulton Moor, Derby

Vistry Group, the provider of mixed-tenure homes, has received planning permission to build 526 new homes on a 47-acre site in Boulton Moor, Derby. The new development proposes a mix of family homes for the area, including 63 affordable homes and 463 homes for the open market and private rental sector. Dave Bradley, managing director of Vistry North Midlands, said: “We are delighted to receive planning permission for the construction of 526 high-quality new homes at Boulton Moor. “This marks a significant step forward in bringing much-needed housing to the area, including a blend of affordable, PRS and private homes designed to create a vibrant and sustainable community. We look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders to bring this development to life and provide homes that cater to the needs of local people.” This development forms the third phase of Derby’s Strategic Urban Extension, designed to create a 2,600-home village attached to the city. It will incorporate facilities including schools, shops, a care home, businesses, a transport hub, and electric charging stations. Work is expected to start later this year.

Buxton Training secures 2,868 sq ft facility

Buxton Training Enterprises, a training provider supporting students primarily in Years 9 to 11, has expanded its operations with the acquisition of a new facility in Arnold, Nottingham. The company has moved into Unit 2 Catton Road, a refurbished industrial warehouse located adjacent to its existing premises at Unit 4 Catton Road. This strategic expansion will enable Buxton Training Enterprises to increase its capacity and enhance its service offering to young learners across the region. Known for delivering vital vocational and skills-based training, Buxton Training Enterprises plays a key role in bridging the gap between mainstream education and future employment for young people. The new facility will support the company’s continued growth and commitment to providing high-quality, hands-on learning opportunities. The property deal was completed by Alicia Lewis, surveyor at NG Chartered Surveyors. Alicia said: “We’re proud to have helped Buxton Training Enterprises secure a facility that supports their important mission. Their expansion into 2 Catton Road is a great example of how the right space can help a growing organisation scale its impact in the community. “This was the first viewing we carried out at 2 Catton Road and the property went under offer in record time. The deal was completed in just one week to ensure a quick turnaround for the Buxton Training team.” Richard Harpham, director at Buxton Training Enterprises, said: “This move marks an exciting new chapter for Buxton Training. With this additional space, we can extend our reach and invest further in our students’ futures. “We’re deeply committed to providing an environment where young people can thrive through tailored, practical education – and this new facility allows us to do just that.”

Board change at Willmott Dixon sees new Midlands commercial director

Contractor Willmott Dixon has made a key change to its senior leadership team, with Catherine Payne appointed as the new commercial director for the Midlands, succeeding Stephen Keach who is retiring after a 31-year career with the company. Stephen joined Willmott Dixon as an assistant project surveyor in 1994 and progressed through the business, before being appointed to the board as a commercial director in 2008. During his tenure as commercial director he has played a pivotal role in Willmott Dixon’s success and growth across the Midlands, overseeing numerous projects across multiple sectors, and establishing the East Midlands region, raising their profile to become one of the largest, most successful contractors in this area. Stephen said: “My career with Willmott Dixon has been incredibly rewarding. The UK construction industry is one of the best in the world and I’ve been fortunate to play a part in improving the living environment for hundreds of thousands of people across the Midlands and creating a positive legacy that will last for many decades. “As I look back on my long and happy career, my advice to anyone starting out is quite simple; make the most of the opportunities that come your way, stay positive, work hard and make it happen. “It has been a privilege to be part of Willmott Dixon, and I’m confident Catherine will bring a fresh perspective and energy to the role. I’m looking forward to working together in the next few months during this transition phase, and I wish her every success as part of the team.” Catherine brings over 20 years of experience to the role, having worked across the public and private sector, for Tier 1 contractors across the UK. During the past 15 years working in the Midlands, Catherine has held commercial director positions for several years with both Wates and Bouygues UK. Her new role will see her responsible for a portfolio of projects across the region, currently turning over in excess of £200 million. Her responsibilities will include focusing on work winning, negotiating new contracts, assisting with framework renewals and general support in project delivery, along with managing the commercial team. Catherine said: “I’m honoured to be taking on this role at such an important time for Willmott Dixon. Stephen is leaving behind an exceptional legacy and I look forward to hitting the ground running to build on that strong foundation and help drive forward the company’s excellent reputation for commercial excellence and innovation.” Catherine’s experience spans a variety of sectors and she has been involved with a number of high-profile projects in the Midlands, including the Highcross shopping centre, Leicester, Resorts World at the NEC and the final phases of the Sandwell Aquatics Centre as part of the Commonwealth Games. As a judge for the Women in Construction Awards and a regular mentor for apprentices and those starting out in their career, Catherine is passionate about championing professional careers in construction. Catherine continued: “I’ve always had an active involvement in the journey of those beginning their career and I would love to see construction professions at the forefront of school leaver options. I hope my new role will provide a platform to continue my efforts to encourage more understanding of what a career in the industry can look like.”

Single-use vape ban prompts enforcement push for retailers

Leicestershire’s Trading Standards team is preparing to enforce new legislation banning the sale and supply of disposable vapes from 1 June. The law applies to all businesses, including online and in-store retailers.

Roughly 400 independent vape sellers across the county have been contacted by Trading Standards to help them prepare for compliance. The clampdown follows rising concerns over youth vaping rates and environmental waste linked to single-use products.

Retailers found selling banned items after the deadline risk unlimited fines or up to two years in prison. They are also legally required to dispose of remaining stock via registered vape recycling services; disposing of them in general waste is prohibited. Only reusable, refillable, or rechargeable vapes will remain legal to sell.

This move comes as national data shows a significant increase in underage vape use, with the percentage of 11-to-15-year-olds using vapes now at nine per cent, triple the figure from three years ago.

Leicestershire businesses seeking compliance support can contact the local Trading Standards office. Residents are also being encouraged to report non-compliant retailers through the council’s reporting platform.

Government shifts apprenticeship focus, raising concerns over higher-level training access

The UK Government has announced plans to shift funding away from Level 7 apprenticeships to lower-level schemes as part of a broader £3 billion investment in skills training, aimed at creating 120,000 new opportunities by January 2026.

While this move is intended to boost early-career pathways and support individuals entering the workforce without academic qualifications, the reallocation of funding has prompted concern among business groups in the East Midlands. The region’s business community is wary that prioritising entry-level apprenticeships could limit routes for workers to develop advanced capabilities through work-based learning, particularly in sectors that demand specialist knowledge.

With skills shortages continuing to hamper recruitment, seven in ten East Midlands firms report difficulties in finding qualified candidates. As a result, employers are increasingly turning to apprenticeships as a means of building industry-specific talent pipelines. Business leaders warn that narrowing access to higher-level schemes could reduce flexibility for companies seeking to upskill existing employees or attract candidates into technical and leadership roles through non-academic means.

The business case, they argue, is not just about volume but about aligning training investment with real-world workforce needs, whether at Level 2 or Level 7. As the government reforms the apprenticeship system, maintaining a balanced approach to skills development will be critical for long-term business resilience.

Phenna Group makes eighth acquisition of 2025

Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification, and Compliance (TICC) companies, has made its eighth acquisition of 2025.

Swooping for Statutory Inspections Limited, a provider of forklift inspections and compliance services, the acqusition further strengthens Phenna’s position in the UK’s Built Environment sector.

Statutory Inspections Limited will join Phenna’s Built Environment division and be integrated into BTIS, enhancing its capabilities and regional reach.

Julia Willis, managing director of Statutory Inspections Limited, said: “We’re very proud of the business we’ve built and are delighted to be joining Phenna Group and BTIS.

“From our first conversations, it was clear that they share our commitment to quality, integrity, and customer service. We’re also excited to be joining forces with the BTIS team; this is a fantastic opportunity for our people and clients alike.”

David Blanchard, managing director of BTIS, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome the team at Statutory Inspections into BTIS.

“Their experience and knowledge will strengthen our existing capabilities and allow us to broaden our reach and service offering. I’m looking forward to working closely with them as we continue to grow and deliver best-in-class services to our clients.”

Brian Shannon, Built Environment divisional MD at Phenna Group, said: “Statutory Inspections Limited is a great strategic fit for our Built Environment division.

“Their strong track record and technical expertise enhance the robust services already offered by BTIS. We are excited about the opportunities this brings to better serve our customers nationwide.”

Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Statutory Inspections Limited into Phenna Group. This acquisition is another strong step in our journey to build a best-in-class network of TICC businesses.

“Their culture, commitment to quality, and customer focus mirror our own, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together as part of our Built Environment division.”

Phenna Group was advised by Browne Jacobson LLP and Johnston Carmichael. Statutory Inspections was advised by HCR Legal LLP.

Matt Bolton, partner at Browne Jacobson, said: “The strategic acquisition of Statutory Inspections is a fantastic addition to Phenna Group’s market-leading Built Environment division as part of BTIS. We’re proud to have advised Phenna Group on yet another deal – its eighth of 2025!”

Showcase exceptional property and construction businesses at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Applauding the achievements of the region’s property and construction industry, the East Midlands Bricks Awards are back for 2025, and now is your chance to showcase outstanding businesses and projects by submitting an entry for the esteemed event. The annual celebration, now in its 10th year, shines the spotlight on those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, highlighting development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes, with categories including Contractor of the Year, Developer of the Year, Architects of the Year, Most Active Agent, Deal of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Sustainable Development of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Excellence in Design, Responsible Business of the Year, and Overall Winner. Providing an ideal opportunity to showcase achievements, recognise teams, boost morale, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, the East Midlands Bricks Awards are completely free to enter, and making the top three finalists in your category will win you free tickets to the annual awards ceremony. Winners will be revealed on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. Running from 4.30pm – 7.30pm, the evening will also provide opportunities to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region over complementary drinks. Reflecting on last year’s awards, Robert Maxey, partner at heb Surveyors, said: “It was an honour to take home the Deal of the Year award at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, especially because the other nominees in the category were so strong! It was extremely pleasing to see recognition of our team’s efforts and the event provided a great boost to morale. “Celebrating excellence in our region’s property and construction sector, and offering a great chance to catch up with local professionals, I’d encourage other businesses to get involved with an entry, to showcase your business and the impact it is making in the industry.”

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here, or on one of the categories 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. 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.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

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.

Funding boost for Northamptonshire veterinary service

Mobile Vet Referral, a Northamptonshire-based freelance veterinary service, has secured £50,000 in funding through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, delivered by First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans. The funding was split evenly between the company’s co-founders, allowing for the purchase of specialised veterinary equipment and the launch of digital advertising to support growth.

The business provides advanced diagnostic services, including ultrasound and endoscopy, on a referral basis to other veterinary practices in the region. Positioned as a mobile, independent provider, it aims to offer flexible and specialist services to practices without in-house capabilities.

The funding package is part of a broader initiative to support start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are unable to access traditional lending. First Enterprise provides loans ranging from £500 to £150,000, reinvesting surplus funds into regional economic development.

This latest support underscores the ongoing role of alternative finance providers in backing high-skill, service-driven businesses across the UK’s healthcare and veterinary sectors.

Mental health pressures cloud leadership decisions in East Midlands

A growing number of business leaders in the East Midlands are struggling with mental health issues that affect their ability to make decisions, according to new research released by East Midlands Chamber and mental health advocate Gary Parsons.

The report, published to mark the first anniversary of the Leaders in Disguise podcast, revealed that 75% of leaders in the region say mental health challenges are impacting their decision-making. The data also indicates widespread concerns about work-life balance and financial pressures.

The survey found that 60% of respondents cited work-life balance as their greatest challenge, while 50% said financial stress was a key concern. Nearly one in five reported feeling isolated or lonely in their roles. Despite these pressures, only 30% of leaders felt very comfortable seeking mental health support.

The findings highlight an often-overlooked issue in the corporate world: the toll leadership takes on mental well-being. With mental health being directly linked to strategic clarity and operational effectiveness, the report highlights the need for more proactive support mechanisms within the business community.

The Leaders in Disguise podcast features conversations with business leaders who share their experiences managing mental health, burnout, and pressure while running organisations.