Team formed to develop proposals for new leisure centre and Civic Offices in Swadlincote
A new Project Team has been formed to develop options and proposals for Swadlincote’s leisure centre and Civic Offices.
Greenbank Leisure Centre and the Civic Offices are ageing and becoming unfit for purpose in comparison with modern leisure centre facilities and future office requirements. Due to their age, condition and South Derbyshire District Council’s decarbonisation targets these buildings will require substantial future maintenance and investment.
At the Finance and Management Committee meeting on Thursday, 24 November, the Committee endorsed the establishment of a new Project Team that will work up proposals for a new leisure centre and Civic Offices.
One of the initial challenges facing the newly formed team will be determining where the new buildings could be built. So, identifying potential sites and evaluating their suitability will be the priority focus of the project.
The financial viability of the proposals will also need to be assessed.
Councillor Robert Pearson, Leader of South Derbyshire District Council, said: “This new team will start work to explore and present a variety of options which will be carefully scrutinised by partners, stakeholders, residents and staff.
“It is of paramount importance that we ensure residents and our staff have access to modern buildings and facilities that truly serve their needs well into the future.”
The project is at an early stage, and no decisions about the new leisure centre or the Civic Offices have been taken. The Green Bank Leisure Centre, and the adjacent Civic Offices have been at Civic Way, Swadlincote, since the 1970s.
Just weeks left to save Derby train manufacturing
A lobby of Parliament has heard from the UK boss of train-maker Alstom that there could be just weeks left to save nearly 180 years of train manufacturing in Derby.
Managing Director of Alstom in the UK & Ireland, Nick Crossfield, made the prediction at the lobby after appearing at a meeting of a select committee on rail rolling stock.
Production lines at the firm’s Litchurch Lane site are set to come to a halt due to a lack of orders for new train fleets from the UK rail sector. The lobby, attended by members of both houses, as well as city and business leaders, was convened to call on the Government to act.
Mr Crossfield told the lobby: “We are at a most critical stage and if we do not get clarity and commitment in the next two to three weeks then we are in a very different environment. Long term, the UK rail market is the second largest in Europe. The question is, how does Britain want to get those trains?”
Councillor Baggy Shanker, leader of Derby City Council, said: “The lobby was well attended and together Team Derby has highlighted just how urgent and critical it is for the Government to take action promptly to secure the immediate future of rail manufacturing in Derby. We all now anxiously wait for a decision from the Secretary of State for Transport.”
Speaking at the lobby, John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby, said: “The Bondholder business community of Derby stands in full support of Alstom and its suppliers.
“The short-term threat is real – and we must protect those thousands of jobs. We’ve been here before – and we need an industrial strategy that puts the rail sector at its heart.”
Alstom, and its unions, have been in talks with the Department for Transport for months in an attempt to persuade it to bring forward contracts to safeguard the jobs of hundreds of workers at the Litchurch Lane factory and thousands more in the UK supply chain.
It has been supported by management at Transport for London, which wants Alstom to build additional trains for the capital’s Elizabeth Line.
Rail sector experts also believe there is desperately needed refurbishment work for current rail fleets in passenger service that could be commissioned into Derby.
City leaders have been working closely with Alstom, Unite and senior government officials to explore potential resolutions to the current situation since possible job cuts were revealed back in September.
At the lobby, local MPs of different political hues came together to discuss the crisis. Also present was Lord McLoughlin, himself a former Transport Secretary, who spoke about the skills that existed in Derby, the importance of the supply chain and the quality of trains the city produces, particularly for the Elizabeth Line.
Growth continues at Games Workshop
Revenue and pre-tax profits are showing continued growth at Games Workshop, the Nottingham-based manufacturer of miniature wargames.
In a new half year update the business confirmed trading is in line with expectations, with the Board’s estimate of results for the six months to 26 November 2023, at actual exchange rates, being core revenue of not less than £235 million (up from £212.3 million last year) and licensing revenue of c. £12 million (down from £14.3 million).
Core operating profit, meanwhile, is estimated to be no less than £82 million (increasing from £70.7 million) and licensing operating profit is anticipated to be £11 million (down slightly from £12.9 million).
Furthermore, profit before tax is estimated at not less than £94 million (growing from £83.6 million).
Under Games Workshop’s profit share scheme, it is paying £2,500 in cash to each employee in December to reward their contribution to the firm’s performance. Dividends declared and paid in the period are 195p per share, £64.2 million.
Frasers Group hails “strong set of results”
The CEO of Frasers Group has hailed a “strong set of results” for the retail giant’s first half.
According to unaudited results for the 26 weeks ended 29 October 2023 (FY24 H1), group revenue passed £2.7bn.
Meanwhile, the Shirebrook-based firm’s reported profit before tax surged to £310.2m from £287.2m last year.
Michael Murray, Chief Executive of Frasers Group, said: “We have delivered a strong performance in the first half of the year, with great momentum as we head into the Christmas trading period. The elevation strategy continues to drive strong trading performance across the business with good growth in Sports Direct supported by our brand partners.
“Our long-term ambitions for our Premium Lifestyle business remain unchanged although it is likely that progress will remain subdued for the short to medium term in the face of a softer luxury market however, we continue to invest with confidence in our unique proposition.
“During the period, we have opened new elevated stores, and further strengthened brand partnerships to allow us to deliver the best consumer experience. I am also excited about the potential of our strategic investments which we expect to unlock further opportunities for the Group. We have a clear ambition to be the leading sports retailer in EMEA and we are making progress on broadening our footprint through a focused international M&A strategy.
“As we look to 2024, we are confident that our diversified proposition will continue to provide consumers with choice across a range of brands and price points. I want to thank our talented colleagues for their relentless focus and hard work which has enabled another strong set of results.”
Profits dip at Watches of Switzerland Group
Watches of Switzerland Group has seen a 20% dip in pre-tax profits in its first half, while revenue has also witnessed a small decline.
According to results for the 26 weeks to 29 October 2023 (H1 FY24), group revenue sat at £761 million, down from £765 million in the same period of the year prior.
While the Leicester business saw strong momentum in the US with a 5% increase in revenue to £328 million, revenue in the UK and Europe was down 4% at £433 million, in part due to a more challenging consumer environment in the UK, and several high turnover showrooms being closed for upgrade during the period. Statutory profit before tax, meanwhile, declined to £67m from £83m.Keeping positive, Brian Duffy, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our good first half performance reflects the Group’s growing leadership position in our chosen markets as the strength of our longstanding brand partnerships and our proven business model continue to drive our performance forward.
“We are particularly pleased with performance in the US, where we grew revenue +11% in the period, and the US now comprises 43% of Group revenue. The consumer environment in the UK continues to be more challenging and UK and Europe revenue was -4% in the period, impacted by the timing of product intake in Q1 FY24 and temporary showroom closures for refurbishment.
“We have expanded our retail network at pace in the first half, opening a total of 19 showrooms globally, whilst investing in elevating the luxury experience for our clients through significant refurbishments across seven showrooms.
“We were also delighted to complete the acquisition of selected luxury showrooms from Ernest Jones in November 2023. Looking ahead into the balance of the financial year, we will integrate the Ernest Jones portfolio and continue to deliver on our exciting pipeline of new projects.
“Demand dynamics remain strong, and our client registration lists continue to grow, whilst the pre-owned market remains a significant opportunity. We are encouraged by the early performance of the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme following its launch in the first half in both the US and UK. We will continue to expand the number of showrooms to meet demand for all pre-owned luxury watches and are excited by the growth potential in this category.
“Looking ahead, we are well positioned for a good holiday trading period as we present our clients with our strongest ever range of luxury watches and luxury branded jewellery. We remain on track to deliver full year guidance, with our confidence for H2 underpinned by the reopening of several high revenue showrooms which were closed for upgrade in H1.
“Looking further ahead, we are confident in our Long Range Plan objectives of doubling sales and profit by 2028 through capitalising on our leading market positions and the unique growth opportunities available to us as the world’s largest luxury watch retailer.”
Social media followers to help IT firm support Northants charity
Staff from IT consultancy 3RS IT Solutions have pledged to support a charity which supports adults with mental health needs, autism and learning and physical disabilities, by undertaking fundraising challenges suggested by their social media followers.
Director Stephen Souch and services operations manager, Ethan Malvern, will be raising money for Teamwork Trust by participating in a series of activities and challenges over the course of the next year – all of which will be decided by a series of online polls across their social channels.
Stephen said: “Some people may know that my son is autistic, and The Teamwork Trust does a huge amount to support people with additional needs in Northamptonshire. We want to help them by raising as much money as we possibly can.
“Ethan and I have formed two teams, Team Souch and Team Malvern, but we need help in deciding which challenges we should take part in.
“Over the coming weeks we will be posting a series of polls on our social media channels and we are inviting everyone to go online and vote.
“While we’re secretly hoping people aren’t too brutal, we will try anything, so we would urge everyone to get online and have their say!”
Helen Burdett-Wright, Chief Executive at Teamwork Trust, said: “Thank you to 3RS IT Solutions – for your support, generosity and such a fun-filled and committed fundraising drive.
“We are 40 years old this year and are all about supporting autistic adults, people with learning disabilities and individuals with mental health needs. This support will make a huge difference to our life changing charity and our service users can’t wait to find out more and get involved.”
To learn more about their challenge and to vote in the online polls visit 3RS IT Solutions’ social media channels at www.linkedin.com/company/3rs-it-solutions/ or search for 3RS IT Solutions on Facebook.
Streets Chartered Accountants covers tax, national insurance, pensions and more in new news roundup
Streets Chartered Accountants covers tax, national insurance, pensions and more in its latest monthly news roundup.
Corporation Tax marginal rate
The Corporation Tax main rate for companies with profits in excess of £250,000 increased to 25% on 1 April 2023…read more
Marriage allowance entitlement
The marriage allowance applies to married couples and those in a civil partnership where a spouse or civil partner does not pay tax or pay tax above the basic rate threshold for Income Tax…read more
Income Tax – £5,000 savings zero rate band
If you have taxable income of less than £17,570 in 2023-24 tax year you will have no tax to pay on interest received…read more
CGT – Lettings relief
In general, there is no Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on a property which has been used as the main family residence…read more
IHT – Giving away your home before you die
The majority of gifts made during a person’s life, including gifting a home, are not subject to tax at the time of the gift…read more
Filling gaps in National Insurance record
National Insurance credits can help qualifying applicants to fill gaps in their National Insurance record…read more
NIC changes for the self-employed
In the recent Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced two important changes to National Insurance contributions (NIC) for the self-employed…read more
NIC changes for employees from 6 January 2024
In the recent Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a significant change to National Insurance contributions (NIC) for employees…read more
Tax relief on pension contributions
Taxpayers can usually claim tax relief for their private pension contributions…read more
Help to Save bonus payments
The Help to Save scheme is intended to help those on low incomes to boost their savings…read more
Due a student loan refund?
Student Loans are part of the government’s financial support package for students in higher education in the UK…read more
Childcare support from HMRC
Parents may be eligible to receive childcare support from HMRC using the Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme…read more
Current State Pension age
The second review of the State Pension age has been published by the Department for Work and Pensions. The State Pension age is currently 66…read more
Paying tax by direct debit
One of the many ways that payments can be made to HMRC is by using a direct debit…read more
Tax Diary December 2023/ January 2024
1 December 2023 – Due date for Corporation Tax payable for the year ended 28 February 2023.
19 December 2023 – PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 December 2023 (if you pay your tax electronically the due date is 22 December 2023).
19 December 2023 – Filing deadline for the CIS300 monthly return for the month ended 5 December 2023.
19 December 2023 – CIS tax deducted for the month ended 5 December 2023 is payable by today.
30 December 2023 – Deadline for filing 2022-23 self-assessment tax returns online to include a claim for under payments to be collected via tax code in 2024-25.
1 January 2024 – Due date for Corporation Tax due for the year ended 31 March 2023.
19 January 2024 – PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 January 2024 (if you pay your tax electronically the due date is 22 January 2024).
19 January 2024 – Filing deadline for the CIS300 monthly return for the month ended 5 January 2024.
19 January 2024 – CIS tax deducted for the month ended 5 January 2024 is payable by today.
31 January 2024 – Last day to file 2022-23 self-assessment tax returns online.
31 January 2024 – Balance of self-assessment tax owing for 2022-23 due to be settled on or before today unless you have elected to extend this deadline by formal agreement with HMRC. Also due is any first payment on account for 2023-24.
Read more
Midlands’ business profit expectations plummet as low optimism reflects bleak economic outlook
The December round of Grant Thornton’s Business Outlook Tracker, which monitors mid-market business sentiment, shows that profit expectations have plummeted since October, with 1 in 3 (32%) expecting a decrease in profit in the next six months.
Business optimism also continued a downward trend across all indicators, whilst investment expectations also fell across all categories.
Key findings include:
- Profit expectations have plummeted 20 percentage points (pp) since October to 46% – this is 9pp below the rolling average
- 1 in 3 (32% expect a decrease in profits)
- Optimism about economic growth stayed flat since October at 58% – this is 11pp below the rolling average (69%) and just 1pp higher than the lowest recorded level
- Revenue growth expectations fell 12pp below the rolling average to 58%
- 18% of respondents were pessimistic about revenue growth – this is the highest level recorded in three years
- Pessimism levels were also at a record high for funding position (17%)
- Investment expectations continue to slow down with all expectations down or the same as in October. Technology (down by 8pp), recruitment (down by 6pp) and skills development (down by 5pp) / growing in international markets (down by 5pp) saw the biggest declines since the last round in October
James Brown, practice leader for Grant Thornton UK LLP in the Central and East region, said: “Throughout most of 2023, businesses have remained relatively optimistic about the economy and their ability to weather the many challenges.
“This latest set of business outlook data suggests that businesses are now starting to come face to face with hard realities resulting from a combination of poor economic performance, biting covenants, higher interest rates, relatively high levels of inflation, energy cost increases, political uncertainty, and decreased investment expectations.
“The only way to get the economy onto a high growth, low inflation path which leads to economic prosperity and welfare gains is to invest in areas that improve productivity, close the productivity gap, and enhance skills. Currently there are decreased investment expectations across the board, including in these key areas.
“The government has put some measures in place such as the Apprenticeship Levy, green grants, R&D tax credits – and while businesses should take advantage of these, they currently don’t seem to be sufficient to ward off all the pressures faced.
“Businesses will know that investing in these areas is critical to their long-term competitive success – so the fact that they are cutting back in these areas paints a clear picture of the pressure they are under.
“With all of this in mind, it is understandable that optimism is at an all-time low, as businesses are in the thick of the storm and trying to find a way through. However, over half (58%) of respondents remain optimistic about the economic outlook, suggesting that businesses can still see light at the end of the tunnel.
“The economy is predicted to improve from 2026 onwards, by which point government policies such as childcare and pension reform will hopefully have kicked in and started loosening the labour market.”
If Father Christmas was a journalist which list would you be on? By Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR
Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR, helps you prepare to pitch the media.
According to my research, you better watch out.
I am also reliably informed from my network of sources that you better not cry.
Don’t even think about pouting.
The reason for these tips?
Simple, Santa Claus is on a deadline.
Of course, being a diligent type, he’s making a list and doubtless will be checking it twice.
Clearly, this will then help him discover who’s been naughty or nice
Because as you might have realised, Santa Claus is on a deadline.
Now, deconstruction of favourite Christmas tunes aside, which list do you think you’d be on if you were really honest about the way you pitch the media and deal with reporters? That is assuming that you do actually do this of course. I realise that to many people, the very notion of “reaching out” to the media is right up there with sticking pins in their eyes or watching another HILARIOUS episode of “Mrs Brown’s Boys” whilst forcing down another mince pie. However, for those brave souls who might be planning to pitch the media as part of their marketing new year’s resolutions, or for anyone who might need a refresher after a “challenging” year of less than stellar pitching, here’s how to make the Nice list and avoid the Naughty list.- Have a list
- Check that list (more than twice)
- Learn what they want
- Check how they want to be pitched
- Answer the question/be useful
- Don’t try and wangle the angle
- Check the requirements
- Meet the deadline
- Picture the scene
- Don’t b*gger off
Glowfrog Video Production expands operations to Nottingham
Glowfrog, a renowned video production company based in Derby, has expanded its operations with the opening of a new premises in Nottingham. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing the company’s ability to serve businesses in Nottingham and surrounding areas more efficiently, while maintaining its commitment to delivering top-notch corporate video production services.
Having already successfully catered to a diverse range of clients across the East Midlands, Glowfrog’s expansion to Nottingham is a testament to its continued growth and dedication to meeting the evolving needs of businesses in the region. The new location enables the company to provide a more localised and responsive service to clients in Nottingham, ensuring quick and direct access to its award-winning video production expertise.
Local Presence, Global Excellence:
While Nottingham already boasts several video production companies, Glowfrog stands out as a pioneer in the industry, bringing with it a superior level of creativity, professionalism, and an extensive track record of producing high-quality corporate videos. As an award-winning video production service, the company prides itself on its ability to deliver visually compelling content that not only meets but exceeds client expectations.
Meeting the Video Production Needs of Nottingham Businesses:
The move to Nottingham is not just about expanding physical presence but also about being attuned to the specific needs of businesses in the area. By establishing a local base, Glowfrog aims to provide a tailored and responsive approach to the video production requirements of Nottingham’s thriving business community.
About:
Glowfrog is an East Midlands based video production company with a focus on delivering award-winning corporate video production service. The company is committed to setting new standards of excellence in the Nottingham business landscape. For more information, visit www.glowfrogvideo.com.
Contact:
Director – Matt Middleton
Glowfrog Video Production Nottingham
Westminster B., Theatre Square, Nottingham, NG1 6LG
Tel: 0115 772 0465
Email: hello@glowfrogvideo.com
About:
Glowfrog is an East Midlands based video production company with a focus on delivering award-winning corporate video production service. The company is committed to setting new standards of excellence in the Nottingham business landscape. For more information, visit www.glowfrogvideo.com.
Contact:
Director – Matt Middleton
Glowfrog Video Production Nottingham
Westminster B., Theatre Square, Nottingham, NG1 6LG
Tel: 0115 772 0465
Email: hello@glowfrogvideo.com
Businesses back call for improvements on ‘unsafe’ A1 in Nottinghamshire
Drivers are avoiding one of the East Midlands’ major roads and businesses are spending hundreds of pounds on vehicle maintenance due to its poor condition, according to a new survey of the A1 by Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM).
Congestion, poor road conditions and signage, junction safety and accidents are the major concerns of the 1,100 people and businesses surveyed around Newark, Retford, Worksop, Stamford and Grantham.
More than 60% of 1,000 drivers surveyed felt unsafe travelling on the A1, with nearly half reporting either being in an accident on the road themselves, or knowing someone who had. More than 70% say they have avoided travelling on it.
Parliament has been told that there have been 27 deaths on the A1 in the East Midlands between 2015 and 2020, and more than 200 incidents where it had to be closed – sometimes for hours on end.
Of 100 businesses surveyed by TfEM, all have had to pay for maintenance or repairs due to the road’s condition, with more than 60% saying they have paid between £300-£1,000. Nearly all reported changing the way they operate to accommodate the road’s condition, such as planning different routes, hiring drivers experienced in using the A1, and carrying out risk assessments.
The A1 is the UK’s longest road and a nationally significant freight artery linking Scotland, the North, and the Midlands with London and the South East.
It also plays a key role in the East Midlands economy, particularly for the agri-food, logistics, manufacturing and tourism industries. Up to 100,000 homes and employment growth are also planned along the A1 corridor in the region.
Several sections of the road have already been upgraded to A1M motorway standard through Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Yorkshire and parts of the North East. However the 72-mile stretch that serves 1.9 million people between Stamford in Lincolnshire and Worksop/Retford in Nottinghamshire remains an unlit dual carriageway with no CCTV monitoring.
Some of the A1’s entry and exit lanes in the East Midlands are short and – unlike motorways – there are also crossing points where vehicles can drive directly across carriageways.
The surveys’ findings follow research published by Midlands Connect earlier this month, which found that delays on this part of the A1 are costing the regional economy around £1.75m every year – equating to commuters losing around £1,400 every day and HGV drivers losing just under £514,000 a year.
Sir Peter Soulsby, Chair of TfEM and elected Mayor of Leicester, said: “This survey adds the voices of local people and businesses to the mounting evidence that the A1 is not fit for purpose in the East Midlands.
“In the past few years, there have been 27 fatal accidents on this stretch of the A1 – significantly higher than average for an A-road dual carriageway – and more than 200 road closures, some of which have lasted up to 10 hours. This is an appalling human cost and unacceptable.
“While the forthcoming National Highways safety work to improve the road’s lane markings and signage is very welcome, what we really need is a more strategic approach to enhancing the route to improve reliability and resilience and bring the A1 in the East Midlands up to a standard that reflects its national and regional economic role.”
Improving the safety and reliability of the A1 is one of Transport for the East Midlands’ and Midlands Connect’s shared priorities for the region’s cities and counties.
Political leaders across the East Midlands are supporting TfEM’s call for action. Alicia Kearns, the MP for Rutland and Melton, who also chairs the A1 Group of MPs, said: “As I have made clear in parliament, the A1 is failing us as a critical economic artery. It has also taken a heart-breaking toll on people’s lives and the concerns these surveys highlight about the road’s safety should set alarm bells ringing.
“This is an ‘A’ road with sub-standard junctions and right turn movements, accident blackspots and a lack of resilience or alternative routes during closures. Critically, there is also a lack of safety technology, including CCTV and even SoS telephones, so those in danger are unable to get the help that they need.
“As a matter of urgency, we need to see a clear plan to address these concerns. Too many people have lost their lives on the A1, and the toll it is taking on businesses and communities is unacceptable. Its safety infrastructure must be raised to a higher standard.”
Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Newark’s position on the A1 and A46 means it’s in a great economic position with links to the north, south, east and west and a safe and a reliable transport network is enormously important to our residents and local businesses.
“The Council has been raising safety concerns regarding the A1 for some time, particularly with traffic queuing to get off the A1 onto the A46 and into Newark. Accidents on the A1 can quickly cause gridlock in Newark and there is a clear case for upgrading the safety infrastructure on the A1 and ensuring people feel safer and delays and congestion are better managed.
“If people are seeking alternatives to the A1 because they feel it’s unsafe, or businesses are spending lots on repair bills when they use it, that is a significant cause for concern.”
Cllr Ben Bradley MP, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, added: “The A1 is a hugely important artery for our whole region, and hasn’t really been fit for purpose for a long time. Investment in bringing this road up to motorway-levels of safety infrastructure would be most welcome, and the survey demonstrates the strength of local concerns.
“The quality and capacity limitations of the A1 could hold back our economy, too. Major investments such as the £20bn STEP Fusion project – developing a world-first fusion power plant near the A1 at Retford and bringing in a huge amount of inward investment to the region – will not be able to deliver the maximum benefit to local people without these infrastructure improvements.
“Government’s commitment to investment here would be very beneficial.”
The campaign to improve the A1 in the East Midlands is also being supported by business and transport organisations nationally and regionally, including the Road Haulage Association, which represents thousands of businesses in the road transport industry.
James Barwise, the RHA’s Policy Advisor, said: “It’s unacceptable that there have been 27 deaths on the A1 in the East Midlands between 2015 and 2020, and more than 200 incidents where it had to be closed. Something has gone badly wrong when a third of drivers are saying they avoid driving on one of our most important roads because they’re worried for their own safety.
“Improving our roads is absolutely vital in connecting our cities and improving our economic productivity, but never more so when it’s needed to save lives.”
The importance of a resilient transport network in the East Midlands has also been highlighted in a new East Midlands All Party Parliamentary Group Report. It calls for greater certainty on the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the region following an inquiry into the social and economic opportunities of investment, in the wake of the cancellation of HS2 to the East Midlands and the Government’s publication of ‘Network North’.
EY appoints new UK insurance leader
EY has appointed Martina Neary as its UK insurance leader, joining the UK financial services leadership team to lead across general insurance, life and pensions and specialty insurance.
In addition to her new role, Martina will remain as the financial services Midlands leader for all sectors and service lines and continue to focus on her portfolio of clients.
Martina joined EY in 2016 as a partner in the CFO advisory business. In 2020, she stepped into the role of EY’s UK financial services Midlands leader, and in 2021 she also became EY’s UK life and pensions insurance leader. Prior to joining EY, she spent fifteen years with KPMG.
Martina takes over the role of UK insurance leader from Rodney Bonnard, who led the UK insurance business since 2015, overseeing double digit year-on-year growth during that period. Rodney remains a core part of EY’s UK financial services leadership team and continues his role as UK financial services markets leader.
Commenting on Martina’s appointment, Anna Anthony, UK financial services managing partner at EY, says: “I am delighted to see Martina take on the role of UK insurance leader. Her progression into this role reflects the instrumental contribution she has made to EY’s UK life and pensions business, and valued leadership of the UK financial services business in the Midlands.
“Just as it did under Rodney’s leadership, I know EY’s insurance practice will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sector and delivering excellence for our clients.”
Martina Neary adds: “The insurance sector is at a pivotal moment. Firms are facing a number of economic headwinds including sustained cost and inflationary pressures, increased competition for customer assets, and at the same time, are embracing a growing appetite – again driven by customers – for digital transformation across the industry.
“While it’s a challenging time, it’s one filled with opportunity, and I’m thrilled to be leading this team as it continues to support our clients.”
Council reveals future office plans
Plans to bring more council teams together into a central office and make further improvements to customer service offerings at localities across West Northants are set to move forward in the year ahead.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is progressing proposals to relocate the majority of its office workers to its base in One Angel Square (OAS), Northampton.
The move follows a thorough review which identified the Council has significantly more office space than it requires, along with a need to change how it uses its buildings to better support residents.
Council staff currently based in the modern part of the Guildhall in Northampton and some teams currently working from The Forum in Towcester will relocate to OAS in stages during 2024 and early 2025, and Northampton’s One Stop Shop will also move from the Guildhall to the lower ground floor of OAS.
The Council will retain the older, historic Guildhall and it will continue to house the Coroner’s Office, committee and meeting rooms.
The plans follow the relocation of services from Lodge Road, Daventry in the summer, and development of the nearby Abbey Centre into a locality hub including Adults, Children’s and other frontline WNC services joining community and voluntary partners.
Cllr Jonathan Nunn, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Changes to the way we work and how we deliver our services mean we have a lot more office space than we need, so it makes real sense for us to review our buildings and it’s what taxpayers would expect us to do.
“Bringing more of our colleagues together into a central Northampton office will enable us to collaborate and innovate to deliver better services for all our residents. As we continue moving towards our commitment to become net zero by 2030, it will also help us reduce our carbon footprint as well as our running and maintenance costs to improve value for money for our residents.”
Once services have relocated from the modern part of the Guildhall during 2024 and 2025, the Council will be looking at disposal options for these surplus offices as it seeks to achieve efficiency savings for taxpayers. The historic part of the Guildhall is not included in these proposals.
Northampton Town Council will continue to operate from the old part of the Guildhall under the current lease arrangements which run until April 2025. WNC will then require the space to accommodate its committees, meetings and other services and will be working with the Town Council to explore suitable alternative locations for the authority when the current lease ends.
Lincolnshire entrepreneur overcomes cancer setback to win national award
Lincolnshire entrepreneur Kirsty Gale, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, has been crowned Businessperson of the Year at the SME National Business Awards 2023 at Wembley Stadium.
Kirsty (43), founder & CEO of the UK’s largest dress specialists Red Carpet Ready, was chosen from thousands of entries by a national panel of judges and was presented with the award at a prestigious ceremony on 1st December 2023.
After leaving school at 16 with only a handful of qualifications, Kirsty started Red Carpet Ready in 2013 without any outside financial support or investment and has achieved impressive year-on-year growth.
Despite difficult trading conditions, the company is on track to achieve a record turnover of £1.6m – an increase of 14% on last year – and was recognised as one of the UK’s fastest growing female-led companies in this year’s E2E Female 100.
Winning Businessperson of the Year is the latest in a long list of accolades Kirsty has achieved and is even more remarkable given that she was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in October.
She recently underwent an emergency lumpectomy and is facing an intensive course of radiotherapy but said her diagnosis has been a catalyst to achieving even greater success.
“I was absolutely thrilled to win Businessperson of the Year as it’s been a really tough year for me personally and I was up against some of the UK’s top male and female entrepreneurs,” explained Kirsty.
“Being told I have cancer was devastating and I was worried about the future as I have an 11-year-old daughter who needs her mum, as well as a business to run, but I am determined not to let it defeat me.
“Instead, I’ve tried to turn something negative into a positive and used it to fuel my ambition. Becoming a market leader is hard work but staying on top is even more of a challenge, which is why I’m constantly striving to lead from the front and exceed customer expectations.
“I’m a strong believer in bricks and mortar; Red Carpet Ready is a shopping destination and we attract thousands of customers from all over the UK every year to our venue which has five luxury showrooms and over 3,500 different styles, all under one roof.
“We’re open seven days a week and provide exceptional levels of customer service to give people an experience they’ll remember for years to come. I also design our own dress label, RCR Exclusives, which is manufactured globally and is by far our bestselling brand.
“Despite facing further treatment I’m full of optimism for 2024 and what we can achieve. I hope my story can inspire others to start their own business; you don’t need to have qualifications or be an expert, but you do need to have the vision and drive to succeed.”
A spokesperson from the SME National Business Awards said: “This year we have had a record number of entrants into the SME National Business Awards. Reaching the finals is a huge achievement in itself, especially considering the wealth of talent and the calibre of entrants for 2023.
“The Businessperson of the Year award is one of our most highly sought after categories, so to take home the gold trophy is a testament to Kirsty’s hard work and determination. We are pleased that her efforts have been recognised and awarded at a national level.”
Historic city centre pub sold in Derby
Acting on behalf of Telereal Trillium, the landlord, Tom Wragg of FHP has sold 27 Iron Gate, Derby, formerly known as The Thomas Leaper, to Amber Taverns.
The public house formerly known as the Thomas Leaper is located in the heart of Derby’s leisure circuit and was brought to the market by FHP shortly after the Wetherspoons closure of the venue in February 2023.
Tom Wragg, associate director, said: “I am massively pleased that we were able to get this deal over the line as there was a lot of moving parts in negotiating a surrender of the Wetherspoons lease and agreeing the sale with Amber Taverns.
“I feel this is an important deal for Derby, bringing a major operator into the city who are a great addition to the vibrant leisure circuit and will coincide well with the forthcoming improvements to the area.”
Sam Frankland of Amber Taverns added: “Amber Taverns are excited to be opening a site in Derby. Our search for the right site in the city has been a long one, but we are really pleased to have secured such a great looking property in the heart of Derby’s licensed circuit.
“We will undertake a full refurbishment in 2024 and our new venue will be called, The Iron Ram. This will be Amber Taverns 167th site, and we have a strong pipeline for 2024, with our next opening being The Railway in Caerphilly due to open in early December.”
Green energy support scheme for entrepreneurs wins national award
A fund operated by the University of Derby and Derbyshire County Council to support organisations to develop green energy and carbon reduction schemes has won a national award.
The Green Entrepreneurs Programme, a £2 million grant fund open to individuals and organisations looking to invest in and develop projects that support the drive towards the UK’s target of net zero carbon by 2050, was named Sustainability Innovation Champion – Organisation category at the Innovation Awards, organised by the Technology Supply Chain.
Among the organisations which have benefitted from funding is the Arkwright Society Ltd, which received a £198,000 grant towards reinstating renewable hydro energy at Cromford Mills. The project has also been backed by the Severn Trent Community Fund and businesses, including Vaillant.
Mark Wheddon, head of delivery, innovation and research at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to win this award in recognition of our partnership with Derbyshire County Council that supports so many innovative projects in the county as we move towards net zero carbon.
“It is inspiring to see the resourcefulness and creativity of individuals and organisations here in Derbyshire, and it is rewarding to be able to contribute towards initiatives that are making a real difference to our sustainable future.”
Councillor Tony King, the county council’s cabinet member for clean growth and regeneration, said: “We recognise the contribution our business community can make towards meeting our target of becoming a net zero county by 2050.
“We’re proud that through the Green Entrepreneurs Programme and our partnership with the University of Derby, we’ve been able to support local firms to develop green energy and cut carbon emissions as part of our net-zero ambitions.”
Dr Richard Fallon, chief executive of the Technology Supply Chain, said: “The Innovation Awards recognise, celebrate and reward innovation across the UK and internationally.
“Our winners are considered best-in-class, and it is a pleasure to celebrate their achievements. This is a great win for the work done by the University of Derby in supporting SMEs in their region with much needed green innovation.”
Ali gets seat on the Board at UKATA
The Chesterfield-based United Kingdom Asbestos Training Association has appointed of Ali Rees (Evans) to its Board of Directors.
As director, Ali will use her skills in business, HR, organisational development, and performance management to support UKATA to move forward and maintain its status as a leading trade association.
She said: “I’d like to thank UKATA for giving me this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to working with them in our collective aim of ensuring effective management of asbestos in the UK through positive training solutions”.
UKATA COO Craig Evans said: Ali has always been very supportive of UKATA, and we very much look forward to working with her more closely.”
Ali’s role as a learning and development professional for the last 22 years has given her significant insight and experience in ensuring all learning interventions are effective and provide valuable return on investment. Since working in local authority, Ali has been delivering asbestos training and creating a pool of resources to assist with duty holder responsibilities for a portfolio of 600 premises and 100 housing stock.
The Board is made up of elected individuals from the membership of the association, and whose function is to provide strategic direction and governance.
UKATA Directors have a responsibility to understand the environment in which the association is operating and to lead the association in fulfilling its purpose as effectively as possible with the resources available.
Passionate about keeping individuals safe, Ali’s dedication comes from her personal experience of losing a family member and work colleague to mesothelioma.
Leicester’s Grand Hotel on the brink of historic refurbishment
Leicester-based Hickman & Smith Architects and specialist contractors Trinity are to work together on the £900,000 project to rejuvenate the city’s Grand Hotel.
The Grade II listed building in Granby Street in the city centre is set to be repaired and restored as part of Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zones.
As part of a major programme of improvements now under way, the shopfronts that line the Granby Street façade of the hotel will be reinstated as close to the building’s original design as possible, using sustainable hardwood and toughened glass.
Recessed doorways will be fitted with bespoke iron gates, and new signage will be introduced, in keeping with the building.
There will also be improvements made to the hotel’s entrance, with cleaning and repairs made to the oriel windows and balcony. Work to restore the existing canopy above the entrance is also planned.
Work is expected to take around five months to complete and will be supported as part of the city council’s successful bid for £1.5million towards a High Street Heritage Action Zone for the Granby Street and Church Gate conservation areas.
Andrew Pring, asset and investment director at the building’s owners Jupiter Hotels said: “We are pleased to be working with both Historic England and Leicester City Council to restore the façade of the hotel on Granby Street close to the original design. This will be the first stage of further significant investment in the hotel, with plans to upgrade the internal areas of the hotel in 2024.”
David Hickman, director and architect at Hickman & Smith, said: “We’re excited to be working with a great team on this project and to help deliver the restoration of traditional features to the Grand Hotel shopfronts. As a local practice, the opportunity to contribute to the regeneration of the Granby Street Conservation Area is a very exciting prospect.
“This project offers a fantastic opportunity to make a long lasting and positive visual impact that will improve the character of the conservation area on this principal route into the city centre from Leicester Station, whilst raising awareness of the benefits of conservation.”
Deputy city mayor Cllr Adam Clarke, who leads on climate, culture and the economy, said: “The restoration of the Grand Hotel’s historic street-level frontages is good news for Granby Street and the city centre.
“The Grand Hotel is a fine example of Leicester’s Victorian past and the city’s rich architectural heritage. It is a local landmark and has long been considered one of Leicester’s most prestigious hotels. With the support of Historic England, this investment will help to restore the building to its former glory, create a much more attractive street scene, and make the area feel safer and more welcoming to all.
“It will also build on recent work to improve routes along Granby Street and Belvoir Street, and will help further improve the look and feel of this important gateway into the city centre.
“It’s important that we continue to invest in our historic city centre shopping streets to support local businesses, boost the city’s economy and create a place where many more people want to live, work and visit.”
A grant of £700,000 has been awarded towards the cost of the restoration work, which is estimated to cost about £900,000. The hotel owners will contribute £200,000 towards the project.
High Street Heritage Action Zones are areas up and down the country which have been singled out by Historic England for funding support. They encourage local councils, businesses, architects and contractors to work together to bid for funding which can be used to sympathetically restore historic buildings.
Louise Brennan, Regional Director for the Midlands at Historic England, said: “This restoration work will be a welcome step in the revitalising of this wonderful area of Leicester. The Grand Hotel is a prestigious building, and we are looking forward to supporting the repair and refurbishment of its street-facing ground floor. Hopefully, this will encourage more people, both tourists and local residents, to step inside to see its fantastic interior and become part of this historic building’s future.”
Gateley RJA strengthens East Midlands residential team with senior appointments
Gateley RJA, the specialist quantity surveying, project management and clerk of works arm of professional services group, Gateley, has strengthened its residential team with two senior appointments in Leicester and Nottingham.
James Frost has been appointed as a senior quantity surveyor at the Kibworth Harcourt office. He previously held roles with Summers-Inman and Gleeds, bringing 12 years of construction experience to the team.
In his role at Gateley RJA, Frost will deliver key quantity surveying and employer’s agent services, as well as driving process efficiencies within the residential team, including a strong focus on cost planning and due diligence.
Casey Harper joins the West Bridgford office as a senior project manager. Harper brings 12 years of construction, residential development and commercial property management experience to the team following appointments with Beyond Consult, Trent & Dove Housing and Nottingham City Homes.
At Gateley RJA, Harper will support residential and affordable housing clients with the delivery and completion of design and build contracts, as well as developer agreements.
Both appointments will bring a strong strategic focus to the consultancy’s residential services offering, as well as leading on the development and management of their respective teams.
Hardeep Kooner, director of residential at Gateley RJA, said: “We pride ourselves on our strong client relationships and the delivery of outstanding services on projects.
“James and Casey both have a wealth of construction and property experience which will bolster our strategic management team and play a core part in strengthening our residential offering.
“Both appointments will make brilliant additions to our team, and I’m looking forward to seeing how their careers progress.”
Intercede secures contract with large US federal agency
Intercede, the specialist in digital identity, credential management and secure mobility, has secured a major new contract win with a large US federal agency, with an aggregate value in excess of $8m.
The order means that the Lutterworth-based group now expects financial performance to be significantly ahead of market expectations for FY24.
Intercede sees the contract as “an exceptional order and deemed ‘one-off'” due to the large number of perpetual licences purchased.
The new customer contract was secured after a “rigorous selection process,” and work will commence immediately to replace the customer’s existing, separate legacy platform with the group’s MyID Credential Management Solution (CMS).
Intercede believes that this new relationship has the potential to develop further as the group’s solutions roll out across hundreds of locations.
Klaas van der Leest, CEO, said: “We are delighted with this new customer win in the US which underlines both our product leadership and our ability to strategically partner with the key system integrators in this market. During the bid cycle, MyID CMS was represented in multiple tenders again highlighting the markets’ confidence in the software.
“We look forward to a productive and deepening relationship with our teaming partners and new federal customer. It is a testament to the hard work of the group’s employees to achieve this landmark contract win. Whilst we are conscious of the exceptional nature of this order our pipeline remains strong and we are confident about the group’s future prospects.”
