Derby brewery places pub arm into administration
Derby Brewing Company’s pub arm, Real Brewing Pub Company, has been placed into administration amidst a challenging trading environment and “unreasonable behaviour of the HMRC.”
The brewery will not be affected and will continue to operate with two sites the Hole in the Wall, Mickleover & NOTSA, Aston on Trent continuing to be operated by Derby Brewing under a new pub company.
Three sites will close with immediate effect, The Clubhouse, Derby, The Pig Lichfield & The Pointing Dogs, Matlock.
A statement from Derby Brewing Company says: “It is with huge sadness and regret that we have to announce that Real Brewing Pub Company, the pub company arm of Derby Brewing Company has today entered administration. The brewery will not be affected and continue operate going forward with two of our sites the Hole in the Wall, Mickleover & NOTSA, Aston on Trent continuing to be operated by Derby Brewing under a new pub company.
“It has been an extremely challenging trading environment over the last couple of years, including the pandemic, increased loan burdens on the back of this, ongoing recruitment challenges, soaring interest rates, supplier cost increases, cost of living crisis resulting in reduced trade and huge increases in the cost base with uncapped energy contracts.
“In spite of these challenges we had a plan in place to continue to steer through this however the business has HMRC arrears predominantly from the pandemic, like many in the industry, the HMRC had been working with us however this recently changed and the debt was demanded to be paid back within a short period, which meant the we could no longer continue to trade.
“Sadly our two freehold sites The Greyhound, Friar Gate & Derby Brewing Tap House, Derwent Street will be sold to clear the arrears to meet their timeframe. Both will remain open and be sold as going concern safe guarding jobs and are now being marketed by the administrator.
“Three of our sites will unfortunately close with immediate effect, The Clubhouse, Derby, The Pig Lichfield & The Pointing Dogs, Matlock.
“As detailed the Hole in the Wall & NOTSA will continue to be operated by us, again safe guarding the team.
“Thankfully in all cases staff will be paid and there will be an opportunity to continue Derby Brewing’s story all be it in a different and smaller guise.”
Paul Harris, MD, Derby Brewing, added: “It is with huge regret that we have been unable to steer the business through this extremely challenging period. We have unfortunately joined a growing list of operators to close previously successful businesses.
“The final nail in the coffin was a combination of the government allowing energy contracts five-fold previous levels to remain in place once their 50% support was removed and the in our view unreasonable behaviour of the HMRC.
“We are extremely sad for the team members who have lost their jobs and the dismantling of a business we as a family have been built over nearly 20 years.”
Trevor Harris, director of brewing, said: “This is an extremely upsetting situation for the team and family, we are pleased however that we have been able to continue the name of Derby Brewing, returning the business into a smaller family operation where we hope to build from.”
Preferred developer revealed for £130+ million Northampton regeneration project
West Northamptonshire Council has confirmed that national regeneration developer, Cityheart is their preferred development partner to bring forward the Four Waterside and Marefair sites.
Working in a joint venture partnership with West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) Cityheart will deliver a transformational and ambitious scheme for the town centre.
Situated at the entrance of the town from Northampton’s railway station, the Four Waterside and Marefair scheme is one of the largest brownfield developments in the county with two sites totaling five acres. Work is anticipated to start in 2025 to unlock this space, providing a new hotel, grade A office space for new and existing businesses, high-quality homes and improved paving and planting to elevate the area.
With nearly 20 years of experience, Cityheart works in partnership with councils across the country to rejuvenate towns and cities, including the £135 million Galleries town centre redevelopment in Wigan. This eight acre, highly sustainable mixed-use regeneration site providing a new market and hotel, high-quality homes, leisure venues, co-working space and events space.
This is Cityheart’s first appointment via the Pagabo National Framework Agreement for Developer Led schemes (Region: East Midlands Lot 3c [£40m+] = Mixed Use).
WNC has secured a £1.5 million grant from The Towns Fund and a further £7 million from the Northampton Waterside Enterprise Zone, to help deliver the project which will contribute to the wider transformation across the town. This funding will enable the development to be brought forward and have a significant impact on the local economy with a projected £130 million gross development value.
The Towns Fund is part of the Government’s plan for ‘Levelling Up’ the UK economy and the Council has secured £24.9 million to invest into transforming Northampton’s Town Centre.
Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “We are delighted to announce that we are working with Cityheart to deliver this significant development. Their expertise will be invaluable in transforming the two vacant brownfield sites and providing high-quality facilities to meet the needs of our local community and benefit our local economy.
“This area has stood empty for too long, and we are excited to now begin the relevant preparation before we start work in 2025. Once complete, this development has the potential to have a transformational impact upon Northampton town centre and beyond.”
Andrew Sanderson, development director of Cityheart, said: “This superb site will open up the gateway to the town centre from the rail station and will be transformational for Northampton.
“It will deliver waterside residences and highly sustainable workspace, enhancing the living experience for people in the town centre. Cityheart is extremely proud to be appointed as preferred developer and we look forward to making a start on the project before the end of the year.”
East Midlands business confidence up
Business confidence in the East Midlands rose five points during October to 38%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Companies in the region reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up one point at 39%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up eight points to 36%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 38%.
East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as evolving their offer (42%), introducing new technology (29%) and investing in sustainability (28%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. A net balance of 29% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 24 points on last month.
National picture
Overall UK business confidence rose three points in October from 36% to 39%, and firms’ outlook on the overall UK economy increased four points to 34%. Businesses’ confidence in their own trading prospects also continued the upward trend, rising four points to 45%.
Companies’ hiring intentions reached their highest level since May last year, with 32% of firms intending to increase staff levels over the next 12 months, up six points month-on-month.
Firms in Yorkshire reported the highest levels of business confidence, jumping 12 points to 52% – the highest reading for the region since March 2022. Companies in the South West reported the biggest uptick in business confidence, increasing 26 points month-on-month to 47%.
Following a fall in confidence in September, the retail and service industries both saw an increase in business confidence, with retail business confidence increasing by five points to 37% and services rising seven points to 43%. Levels are still lower than seen in August, however, when retail business confidence was at 44% and services at 42%. Manufacturing confidence was 36%, unchanged from last month when confidence rose to a three-month high. Construction fell for a second month in a row to 31% (down five points).
Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It’s fantastic to see business confidence increase in the East Midlands as we head into the final quarter of the year. There’s been a significant jump in businesses expecting to hire more staff over the next 12 months, as many firms look to meet the seasonal demand of the winter period.
“As always, we’ll be by the side of the region’s firms to ensure they have the cashflow they need to grow their teams. While the talent market in many industries remains tight, businesses need to ensure they can offer potential staff a competitive salary, as well as opportunities for upskilling and development. By ensuring they have headroom in their finances, businesses will be able to recruit the staff they need to meet demand and maximise opportunities for growth.”
Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Business confidence this month reflects a more positive outlook as we head into the important festive period, with trading prospects and economic optimism both at their second highest levels this year.
“The level also underlines the wider upward trend of steadily rising confidence in 2023. If you look at the year in quarterly time periods, confidence has steadily risen from 20% in the first quarter, 26% in the second and in September an average of 27% in the third.
“However, our data shows that firms are still safeguarding their profit margins in response to the possibility of interest rates remaining high, wage increase pressures, and the prospect of higher energy prices again this winter.
“Therefore, businesses will be keeping a keen eye on the forthcoming Autumn Statement and Bank of England policy announcements as they navigate through a challenging economic period ahead.”
Royal approval for Notts net zero firm’s historic library project
A Nottinghamshire firm that specialises in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings has been praised by the Princess Royal for helping to preserve a rare collection of books in an historic church library.
Viridis, based in Collingham, near Newark, recently completed work to optimise energy efficiency, costs, UV exposure and humidity control at St Botolph’s Church, in Boston, Lincolnshire.
Part of the medieval church, also known as the Boston Stump, houses a library containing around 1,200 historic books that are often sought after by academics.
One of the books – St Augustin’s Commentary on Genesis – dates back to 1170, and it had been feared that over-exposure to natural light, temperature and humidity variations, would permanently damage an important part of our literary history.
Viridis was therefore commissioned by the Boston Stump Restoration Trust to design a new energy system that would help to preserve the books for enjoyment by future generations.
The finished project, which also included improving energy efficiency in the main church and neighbouring Blenkin Memorial Hall, was inspected by the Trust’s patron, Princess Anne, on a recent visit.
Lee Marshall, managing director of Viridis, said: “Princess Anne accompanied me to the library with just a small handful of other staff and proceeded to spend 25 minutes discussing the improvements we had designed.
“I was amazed at her deep level of interest – she was really keen to find out more about what we had done. And she was extremely impressed by the achievement.”
Lee said that the first thing his team of scientists, architects and engineers did on an important heritage asset like St Botolph’s was to understand how the building worked as “a piece of technology.”
The next stage is figuring out how the team can optimise the internal environment while at the same time reducing the level of mechanical and electrical services that go into running the various parts of the building.
“In terms of the library, which is a relatively small space, it was receiving too much natural light through its large, ornate south-facing window and two smaller windows, so we had to address that as it was damaging the books,” he said.
“With its thick stone walls, which can keep heat in as well as out, we also manipulated physics to ensure the internal temperate remains at a moderate 17 degrees – which is not too cold and not too hot for the delicate books.”
The excess of natural light in the library was reduced by building bookshelves in front of the two smaller windows and installing louvre blinds in the large window, which can be manually controlled by staff according to needs.
Viridis also installed a humidification unit, about the size of a small filing cabinet, to ensure the air was not too wet and not too dry, both of which can damage ancient books.
“As engineers, we work with the environment,” said Lee. “Instead of wasting energy by using a third-party water source in the event that the air is too dry, our unit stores and utilises the free moisture that exists in the atmosphere. It is these small details that help to provide our clients with the big benefits.”
In the main St Botolph’s Church, parts of which date back to 1309, Viridis re-ordered the heating system. It reduced the building’s boiler capacity by 50 per cent and reduced its operation and energy use by up to 400 per cent, vastly increasing energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
As a result, the building is now much warmer than before, it costs less to heat and, significantly, the church has reported a huge increase in visitor numbers, which it puts down to the warmer environment inside.
“It’s now warmer and therefore more welcoming, which was a very important part of our brief,” said Lee. “The church as a whole is now far more sustainable, and we have created an environment in the library that saves some very historic books. I’d like to thank the team at St Botolph’s for their vision and support.”
Other important books housed in St Botolph’s Library include a 1542 edition of the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, a Book of Common Prayer printed in 1549 and a collection of books by Dutch philosopher Erasmus, published between 1545 and 1548.
Detailed planning application submitted for Louth development
Developer Charterpoint and housebuilder Snape Properties have jointly submitted a detailed planning application for a site near Louth.
The 12-acre plot off Daisy Way is an extension to the popular Westfield Park and already has outline planning permission for up to 90 new properties.
Now a detailed application has been submitted to East Lindsey District Council for the next stage of the development.
The proposals are for 90 properties, including a mix of one, two, three and four bedroom homes, plus a children’s play area, surface water attenuation ponds, wildflower meadows, sustainable drainage and an amenity lawn for communal informal recreation.
Adrian Goose, CEO of Charterpoint, said: “We are very pleased that Charterpoint and Snape Properties have jointly submitted a detailed planning application for this site off Daisy Way near Louth.
“In conjunction with Charterpoint, Snape Properties has built a flourishing community at Westfield Park and this additional plot will bring more much-needed homes to the town.”
The site, which is bounded by the A16 Louth bypass to the north west and by Westfield Park to the south and east, will be accessed off Daisy Way and will include green infrastructure to provide an attractive quality environment for residents and visitors with consideration given to access for pedestrians and cyclists, enhancement of wildlife biodiversity, sustainable drainage solutions and promotion of use of outdoor spaces for improved mental and physical health and well-being.
Open water, swales and ditches are also included as part of the sustainable drainage strategy to contribute to local biodiversity.
Nottingham immigration law firm makes trio of strategic hires
Nottingham-based UK immigration law firm, OTB Legal, is expanding again, after making three strategic new hires. The firm has welcomed two associate solicitors and a new paralegal.Highly-experienced Kate Gamester joins OTB Legal as associate solicitor. She specialises in business immigration, sponsor licence management and compliance and right to work checks.
Kate has worked for a number of multinational household names throughout the course of her career, across a wide range of business sectors, and is also experienced with UK Expansion Worker sponsor licence applications.Meanwhile, Amie Higgins also joins OTB Legal as associate solicitor. Called to the Bar in 2005 and admitted to the Roll as a solicitor in 2008, Amie is a highly experienced and sought after human rights and public law specialist.Amie is accredited as a Supervising Advanced Caseworker under the Law Society’s Immigration & Asylum Accreditation Scheme (IAAS) and a former winner of the LAPG ‘Immigration Lawyer of the Year’ award.
Amie provides advice and assistance in all aspects of asylum and immigration law challenges on both a private and legal aid basis, where available. Amie also works as a legal compliance consultant, providing training and support to lawyers and law firms on legal aid, quality standards, equality, diversity and inclusion and safeguarding.
Finally, OTB Legal welcomes Bridget Umoru as a paralegal. Bridget was called to the Bar of England and Wales and has worked with various legal charities providing practical and emotional support to vulnerable clients. She is also experienced in providing high level day to day support to solicitors, particularly in immigration and personal law matters.OTB Legal’s Marcus Worthington said: “I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to Kate, Amie and Bridget – they’ll be key members of the team as we move forward and have extensive experience in immigration law.
“The high calibre of legal professionals we’re now attracting to OTB Legal is testament to our track record of getting the very best outcomes for our clients. I have no doubt that our new trio will build upon and enhance this tradition and their arrival is well-timed and builds momentum after our encouraging rankings in Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500.”
CMA inquiry launched for Alumasc acquisition
White Hart Hotel to reopen in historic Uphill Lincoln
Following a comprehensive six-month refurbishment, the White Hart Hotel in Lincoln is set to open its doors to the public on Monday 6th November.
Purchased in 2022 by Lincolnshire resident and businessman, Andrew Long, the hotel has been completely transformed and now offers both locals and visitors to Lincoln a truly stylish place to stay, eat and celebrate.
Originally one of the oldest Coaching Inns in the region, the White Hart Hotel is located on Bailgate, one of the city’s most historic streets, within yards of the iconic Lincoln Cathedral and medieval Lincoln Castle.
As well as a tasteful renovation of the bedrooms, the hotel now proudly boasts the fully refurbished and renamed Colonnade Cocktail Bar & Lounge at the very heart of the hotel, the all-new Gibson Club Bar for more relaxed occasions and a wealth of additional wedding and function suites. The hotel’s stylish new Antlers Restaurant, will be opening at the start of December, serving the very finest local and seasonal produce from a host of local suppliers and artisan producers.
Andrew Long says: “Since acquiring the White Hart, we have had ambitious plans to turn it into one of the most elegant and desirable hotels in the region. The comprehensive yet sensitive and respectful refurbishment we have carried out on Lincoln’s most historic hotel should ensure that it quickly regains its reputation as the city’s leading ‘special occasion’ destination for both locals and visitors alike.
“We can’t wait to welcome our guests, old and new to see what we’ve been able to achieve.”
Andrew added: “The White Hart first opened more than 600 years ago as a Coaching Inn and has been one of Lincoln’s premier hotels since being substantially rebuilt and extended in the mid 1800s.”
Hotel General Manager, Paul Noble, said: “We’ve spent the last few months training and developing our highly valued team and getting ready to reopen, so we’re excited to be able to put our carefully laid plans into action.
“Not only have we considerably improved our food offering and menu choices, but we’ve also had a complete overhaul of our renowned cocktail menu to ensure each guest has a truly memorable experience – whether they are visiting for a few hours or staying for several days.”
Andrew Long has also acquired the nearby Judge’s Lodgings, a similarly historic gem close to the White Hart Hotel on Castle Hill. Andrew plans to refurbish and redevelop the Judge’s Lodgings in conjunction with the former White Hart Hotel Garages and 2 Bailgate, providing fully serviced ‘apartment style’ Rooms, Restaurant and Licensed Cafe Bar, together with a high quality Retail Arcade and the continued provision of approximately 30 customer car parking spaces.
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Full planning application submitted to redevelop Derby city centre site
A full planning application has been submitted to Derby City Council for the redevelopment of one of the final plots of vacant land within the Cathedral Quarter.
186 one and two-bedroom apartments are proposed by Wavensmere Homes and Wilson Bowden Developments for Cathedral One – a nine storey, u-shaped, red brick building.
The site was previously home to a police station, constructed in the 1960s and demolished in 2013. Phase One of Wilson Bowden’s Full Street development was completed in 2016, including the refurbishment of the Riverside Chambers office complex, some 46 new apartments at Number One Cathedral Green, and a Premier Inn hotel.
The remaining parcel of land had been earmarked for an office development of up to 100,000 sq ft, but will now be brought forward by Wavensmere Homes for an apartment scheme.
Franklin Ellis Architects has designed the scheme, which also includes 2,000 sq ft of mixed-use space at ground floor level to overlook Cathedral Green and Full Street. Uses earmarked for this space include a new café and facilities such as a gym, co-working zone and concierge point.
James Dickens, Managing Director of Wavensmere Homes, said: “This challenging brownfield site occupies one of the best locations within Derby city centre and benefits from rich views of the Cathedral Quarter and the River Derwent.
“It has been vacant for 10 years and the opportunity to create an exemplary development, reflective of the prime gateway location is exciting.
“The plans we have submitted for Cathedral One would help towards Derby City Council’s target to provide a minimum of 11,000 new homes throughout the city over the coming decade.
“By appropriately densifying this derelict brownfield site within such a prized and popular city location, we will create highly energy-efficient homes for well over 250 people who will then spend their time and disposable income locally.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Derby City Council’s Officers, Councillors, and wider stakeholders, as this planning application is considered.”
Matthew Branton, Managing Director of Franklin Ellis Architects, said: “Whilst designing Cathedral One, our team at Franklin Ellis were conscious of the need for this proposed development to carefully close the wider urban block and positively front Full Street, Cathedral Green and the waterside, improving the safety, attractiveness, and animation of the adjacent public areas.
“We have taken a context led approach to a layered facade design, incorporating quality detailing and a refined material palette whilst paying homage to the surrounding architecture and heritage assets, ensuring the Cathedral is always the star of the show.
“We have spent many months refining the design and generating these comprehensive plans, which reflect feedback from the recent public consultation, together with the Council’s Design and Heritage Review Panels – creating Derby’s most sought-after apartment development.”
Frasers Group divests IP of Missguided to SHEIN
Shirebrook-based Frasers Group has divested the IP of Missguided to SHEIN, which it says is “in line with its disciplined approach to managing its portfolio of brands.”
Under the terms of the transaction, SHEIN will acquire the IP and trademarks of Missguided, whilst Frasers will retain Missguided’s real estate and employees which have now been integrated into Frasers’ fashion division.
Frasers noted that the transaction has enabled “exciting discussions with SHEIN around opportunities for potential collaboration across our brand portfolio.“
Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group, said: “With I Saw it First and Missy Empire, we now have a foothold in women’s digital-first fashion.
“Retaining the combined Frasers fashion teams whilst rationalising our portfolio in this space to focus on fewer brands makes a lot of sense in the current climate. We are also excited about the ongoing discussions around further collaboration between Frasers Group and SHEIN.”
Meanwhile the retail giant is touted to be considering an offer for online bikes retailer, Wiggle, following its collapse into administration, according to Sky News reports.Loughborough University’s research with adidas wins best UK industry-academia partnership
Loughborough University’s twenty-year partnership with global sports brand adidas was named winner of the 2023 Royal Academy of Engineering Bhattacharyya Award in recognition of their stellar academia–industry collaboration.
Drawing on the University’s first-class capabilities in engineering, aerodynamics, ergonomics and sports science, project teams have worked to make sport safer, more accessible and allow people to perform at their best, whilst developing the adidas talent pipeline.
For the first time in the Bhattacharyya Award’s history, joint winners were declared with the University of Manchester and for its twenty-year partnership with the nuclear decommissioning sector, providing expertise for quicker, safer nuclear decommissioning.
The Bhattacharyya Awards were presented by Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, CEO of the Royal Academy of Engineering, with each industry-academia partnership receiving a £25,000 prize to further extend the impacts of their work.
Funded by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the annual Bhattacharyya Award is awarded to a UK university or college that has demonstrated a sustained, strategic industrial partnership in any academic discipline that has benefitted society and is deserving of national recognition. The Award was set up in tribute to the late Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya KT CBE FREng FRS, Regius Professor of Manufacturing at the University of Warwick, and founder of WMG.
Collecting the award with Dr Tim Lucas, adidas Vice President of Engineering and Technology, Professor Andy Harland, Director of Loughborough University Sports Technology Institute, said: “Lord Bhattacharyya was a pioneer in his field, and it was fitting for us that Professor Roy Jones – the world’s first Professor in Sports Technology – was with us to collect this award.
“Roy pioneered the discipline of sports engineering at Loughborough and his values and principles still guide our group today. It was his vision, together with that of Dr Tim Lucas in adidas Innovation that started our journey that has shaped the lives of so many colleagues and researchers over two decades.
“Tim and his team have been critical in translating Loughborough research to influence so many iconic sporting products and given international reach to our impact.
“This award is for everyone who has played a part, from academic colleagues, to students, researchers, technical and admin staff as well as all our partners within adidas who have made the last twenty years so fulfilling and enjoyable.
“We look forward to building on this award to extend our partnership and influence more lives through great engineering research.”
Loughborough University was shortlisted for the 2019 Bhattacharyya Award for its partnership with Rolls-Royce, which first began in the 1960s and was formalised in 1991 with the establishment of the Rolls Royce University Technology Centre – later leading to the establishment of the National Centre for Combustion and Aerothermal Technology, on Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park.
Professor Nick Jennings, Loughborough University Vice-Chancellor said: “I am hugely proud that the University’s outstanding collaborative track record with adidas has been recognised by the Royal Academy of Engineering as the UK’s most exceptional industry–academia partnership together with the University of Manchester and the nuclear decommissioning sector.
“adidas has enabled the University to raise the level of its research ambition, creating a world-class environment that continually opens new opportunities to advance original knowledge, drive innovation and enrich our student experience.”
Leicester mayor calls on Government to increase council funding
Leicester’s City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby has written to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to warn that the city council will struggle to balance its books in the next 18 months unless there is a change to Government funding.
In his letter to Michael Gove, Sir Peter said: “Hardly a week goes by without a local authority warning that it faces financial crisis and the equivalent of bankruptcy, were it a private company. Thanks to extremely prudent financial management we are not there yet, but without a serious rethink from the Government we are rapidly running out of options.”
Like other councils across the country, Leicester City Council is facing huge cost increases for social care, with more adults needing support with day-to-day living, and more children needing care. Social care services in the city are on course to cost an extra £50m a year by 2025. The council also faces cost increases from the recent rise in inflation.
Sir Peter added: “The pressures on social care are huge and are being experienced by all authorities. I don’t believe that the Government has the slightest awareness of the impact the rise in costs will have on councils. Indeed, we have been warned to expect a further round of austerity in 2025, which would be disastrous.
“Previous Government cuts have forced us to reduce spending on our other services by 50%. I now fear for the future of services such as parks, sports, museums, libraries, cultural services and community centres – indeed all those services that make our city a pleasant place to live.
“Without more Government money, these services face savage cutbacks, and Leicester faces the real prospect that the council will join the ranks of those receiving a section 114 notice before we can set the council’s budget for 2025/26.”
Amy Oliver, the council’s director of finance, said: “Councils are under unprecedented financial pressures. It is a legal requirement for councils to provide some services, such as social care, and if the cost of these services continues to go up, either the Government must provide more money or other services will have to be cut.”
East Midlands devolution takes step closer to reality
The proposed East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has moved one step closer to reality after key legislation was approved in Westminster.
The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill has been granted Royal Assent after completing its passage through Parliament, paving the way for the creation of the EMCCA and the region’s very-first Mayoral elections next May.
Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council will now decide whether to move forward with devolution plans, with decisions expected before the end of the year.
The East Midlands devolution deal, agreed with Government ministers last summer, would see Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham benefit from £1.14 billion of funding to invest in local projects related to transport, education and skills, housing, the environment and economic development.
Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “This is a key milestone on the road to agreeing plans to bring in £38 million a year for the East Midlands and move major decision-making to the people who best know our communities, rather than Westminster.
“It’s about improving the lives of people across our region by bringing more and better jobs, opportunities for training, better transport and housing, improving the local economy and accelerating our route to Net Zero. But that’s just the start. If this deal is agreed, we’re determined to build on it over time as other areas have done, bringing further benefits for our residents in the future.”
Ben Bradley MP, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “This is truly a milestone moment in the quest for devolved powers for our region. Now we know this is definitely happening, and we’ve secured more powers, local control, funding and independence from central government to affect real change in the East Midlands. That’s fantastic news.
“In truth though, it just confirms the start of the journey. The end game is delivering outcomes like better transport, quality jobs and new training opportunities for local people.”
Baggy Shanker, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “Devolution will bring much-needed funding to Derby and the wider region, especially with so many of our residents experiencing the cost-of-living crisis.
“It’s also important that more decisions affecting the region are made by locally elected representatives, so I welcome the news that plans for an East Midlands Combined County Authority are taking another step forward.”
David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “This is positive news and allows us to move forward with devolution plans which will make a significant difference to people, both in our city and the wider region.
“More investment and the power to make local decisions on how money is spent would lead to better jobs, housing and training opportunities. Our region has been underfunded for too long and I will work to make sure we get our fair share of funding and maximise its potential.”
The powers and funding will be held by the proposed East Midlands Combined County Authority, for which there will be an elected mayor from May 2024, and is presently being steered by the elected leaders from the two city and two county councils which signed the deal.
Representatives from District and Borough Councils, alongside wider partners from business and other sectors, will further support the organisation’s development and governance.
Devolution plans for the East Midlands are similar to those already in place across other mayoral regions like Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.
If the plans go ahead, the EMCCA – spanning two counties and cities – would be the first combined county authority in the country, with a new elected regional mayor at the helm, representing around 2.2 million people.
More funding is expected to become available once the EMCCA is formed – so far, £18 million has been awarded to the area as early investment during devolution negotiations, which is being spent on improving local housing, transport and skills provision.
Earlier this month, the Government announced around £1.5 billion in transport funding for the East Midlands Mayor, who would be in place from May 2024.
Thanks to devolution proposals, the East Midlands has been invited to establish an ‘Investment Zone’, which will attract £80 million of support over five years, with tax incentives for businesses to help boost economic growth right across the region.
Further investment to boost local projects across the region would also be provided through annual Whitehall budgets and spending reviews.
PwC appoints new regional leader for the Midlands
PwC partner David Morris has been appointed as regional leader for the Midlands region, overseeing the Birmingham, East Midlands and Milton Keynes practices.
David succeeds Matthew Hammond, who is taking on new roles after a decade as a regional leader.
Matthew initially led PwC’s West region for two years and has spent the last eight years leading PwC across the Midlands, whilst also being Senior Partner for the Firm’s Birmingham office.
During that time, PwC’s Midlands practice has almost doubled in size, with investment in over 1,000 new roles and 44 new Partners over the last eight years. In addition Matt has successfully led PwC’s Midlands firm through the opportunities and challenges presented by Brexit and the pandemic, while achieving rapid growth.
Matthew will continue to be based in Birmingham. He will add to his extensive multi-sectoral client portfolio, continue to lead PwC’s Strategic International Markets group, and has been appointed to Chair PwC’s Financial Crime business. Matthew has a number of external roles and he will continue to Chair the West Midlands Growth Company.
Matthew Hammond said: “It’s been an honour to lead the Midlands firm for the last eight years, during which we have delivered record growth through investments in our people and Partners, to serve the whole of the Midlands market.
“Congratulations to David on this appointment. This is a critical period for the region’s economy, and we have the strongest pipeline to deliver against as our clients seek increasing collaboration to meet their growth aspirations.
“I am confident that the breadth of industries across the region and the cross-sector insights and experiences this creates will enable Midlands businesses to capitalise on new and emerging technologies to feed the next stage of growth.
“I am very proud of what our people and Partners have achieved over the last eight years. Amongst them the ongoing work on Inclusion & Diversity, equipping the next generations with digital skills to create their opportunities, supporting our colleagues through the unprecedented times of the pandemic, creating the best workplace at One Chamberlain Square, and our work with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games are just some of them.
“I will continue to be based in Birmingham leading a portfolio of International clients and our Strategic International Markets business, and taking a role in our Financial Crime business also which I am looking forward to. Importantly my local work as Chair of the West Midlands Growth Company and as co-founder of Birmingham Digital Futures will continue.”
With over 20 years with the firm, David brings a wealth of experience, most recently having led the Health Services Sector for more than four years, including through the Covid-19 pandemic.
During his time with PwC, David has led the support for some of the most high-profile change programmes in the public sector, advising boards, regulators and central Government as well as being on the board of a number of large teaching hospitals.
Speaking about his new role, David Morris, said: “It’s a privilege to take on the role as Midlands leader. Having been born and raised in the Midlands, with a career journey that has taken me around the globe, it’s a full circle moment to be stepping into this role to help shape the future of the Midlands firm.
“The region has so much to offer, from being quite literally a place of 1000 trades to the incredible talent and quality educational institutions we have on our doorstep. Having joined the firm in 2004 as a senior associate, I’ve seen first hand the career journey that PwC can offer and it’s a priority of mine to champion, nurture and develop the next generation.
“I take on this role during a time where some businesses are facing economic challenges as we head towards the end of 2023. That said, there are some real game-changing opportunities too, particularly around productivity, technology and ESG, and I’m keen to see how we can help businesses continue to promote this region as the place to be.
“Finally, I’d like to pay tribute to Matt and the fantastic work he has done over the last decade as our regional market leader; his efforts means he hands over a firm ready to take advantage of the opportunities presented.”
Welcoming the appointment, Carl Sizer, PwC’s Head of Regions, said: “I’m delighted that David will be our new regional market leader for the Midlands. His expertise and experience in the firm will provide a unique perspective to the role, with a keen focus on supporting talent as well as our clients.
“I’d also like to thank Matt Hammond for his dedication to the Midlands for the last eight years. His time in the role has led the region from strength to strength and I’m excited to see what heights the Midlands can reach next.”
Van Elle acquires piling specialist in £3.8m deal
Van Elle, the Nottinghamshire ground engineering contractor, has agreed to acquire the entire issued share capital of Rock and Alluvium, a piling specialist, for a total consideration of up to £3.8m on a cash-free, debt-free basis, subject to completion accounts.
Based in Leatherhead, Rock and Alluvium was established in 1963, joined Galliford Try in 1989, and has built a strong reputation primarily serving the residential and commercial sectors in London and the South East.
The business operates a well invested fleet of 11 piling rigs which complements Van Elle’s existing capital investment programme, has a highly trained workforce and an experienced management team.
Rock and Alluvium represents a strategic and complementary acquisition for the Group and will be integrated within Van Elle’s General Piling Division. It provides the Group with an established presence in the South East, a region with good mid-term growth prospects which is currently under-served by Van Elle.
The company has also entered into a five-year trading agreement with Galliford Try under which Van Elle will provide piling and geotechnical services. It is anticipated the trading agreement will generate revenues in excess of £10m per annum.
Mark Cutler, Chief Executive of Van Elle, said: “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Rock and Alluvium and our Trading Agreement with Galliford Try, which I am confident will deliver positive benefits for both parties.
“This deal accelerates our expansion into London and the South East, by bringing a highly regarded business and team into the Group with a proven track record, a strong order book and a well invested fleet.
“This follows the acquisition of ScrewFast Foundations in 2021. The Board has been very disciplined in reviewing acquisition opportunities in the intervening period to ensure they will support the delivery of our growth strategy. I believe that Rock and Alluvium will prove to be an excellent addition to the Group.
“I look forward to welcoming the management team and all Rock and Alluvium employees to Van Elle.”
For the year ended 30 June 2023, Rock and Alluvium generated revenues of £15.5m and a draft operating loss of £0.2m. The assets subject to the acquisition had a net asset value of approximately £3.7m as at 30 June 2023.
The acquisition is expected to complete in mid-November 2023.
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council present £400,000 boost for rural businesses
Rural businesses and organisations are being invited to apply for grants to help them to become greener.
A new scheme aimed at boosting the rural economy has been launched by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and will run until March 2025.
The initiative has been made possible thanks to £400,000 of funds from the Rural England Prosperity Fund.
Those eligible for the grant include businesses and local organisations that invest in green technologies, as well as those that increase productivity; protect and improve local historic buildings, venues and cultural offerings; provide diversification outside of agriculture and develop local tourism attractions.
Applications are especially encouraged from those who would like to install low and zero carbon-generating technologies, or measures to improve energy efficiency.
There are a range of grants available, with funds from £7,500 to £22,500. The grants also have an intervention rate of 75%, meaning businesses and organisations need only find a minimum 25% of the total eligible project costs to apply.
With a pool of £100,000 available in Year 1 (2023/24) and £300,000 in Year 2 (2024/25), the council is expecting high interest and applications will be treated on a first-come first-served basis.
The fund is open to applications for Year 1 and 2, although applications for Year 2 must be projects that will not commence prior to 1st April 2024.
Executive Member for Rural Affairs at the Borough Council, Councillor Martin Cartwright said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer these grants to support our rural communities and businesses, helping them to thrive especially given the challenging and difficult circumstances over the recent years.
“Due to the amount on offer, we are expecting these grants to be very competitive, so please apply straight away if you think you’ll be eligible. Our thanks to the Rural England Prosperity Fund for helping to make this possible. Good luck with your applications.”
The closing date for the first round of funding is midday on Wednesday 29 November 2023.
New future for Newark Castle takes step forward
Newark Castle is taking another step towards opening its gates as a new and improved visitor attraction. At next Tuesday’s Cabinet Meeting, Newark and Sherwood District Council Members will vote on the approval of a delivery funding application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The Heritage Fund previously awarded a development stage grant in March 2022, adding to £3million of funding from Newark’s Towns Fund deal and a capital contribution.
The project will see the original Romanesque Gatehouse, named by Historic England as the most complete example of such a structure in England, reinstated as the spectacular entrance to the Castle. This will lead to five gallery spaces which follow the Castle’s story through time and bring its Medieval history to life through fascinating, fun and interactive interpretation including models, real and replica tactile objects and furniture, embroideries, trails and play, designed by Nissen Richards Studio.
There will also be a tower-top viewing platform from which visitors can overlook the town and the Castle’s newly enhanced gardens. These have been a focus of the project which also aims to enhance and protect the natural environment and green space within this historic site, establishing more biodiversity and enhancing accessibility through landscape development.
Expert ecologists have been consulted to create a planting scheme which is more wildlife friendly, creating habitats and feeding places for insects, bees and birds, and incorporating bat and moth friendly lighting and bat roosts. There will also be plenty of opportunities for local volunteer gardeners and groups like Flower Pod to get involved.
The gardens were developed in the Victorian era with a commitment to provide a public space for everyone to enjoy. However, this did not account for modern accessibility and the plans will see routes updated for wheelchair users, people with low mobility and those with prams or pushchairs to be able to enjoy them equally as well as increased benches and seating.
Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It was important to us that local people were consulted during this process and we have listened, ensuring that HE Milner’s beloved flowerbed remains and that wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility are able to enjoy the full extent of the gardens.
“This of course means that changes must be made but our landscape architect at Urban Edge Architecture has worked very hard to create new paths which comply to accessibility legislation and which disturb as few trees as possible. I’m delighted that this work will also see an increase in the biodiversity of this important green space as well as driving visitor numbers to boost our local economy and, hopefully, bolstering our residents’ pride in this very special local asset.”
It’s anticipated that, once works are completed, the Castle will attract almost 17,000 visitors from outside of the district, helping to deliver sustainable economic growth as a destination attraction.
Residents and local communities will also be supported through free participation activities, co-creation and opportunities to promote improved wellbeing. The development incorporates a new facility beneath the gatehouse bridge which will be used for both learning visits and for community groups and outreach, providing an extra space in the centre of town for residents to come together.
The town’s early evening economy will be supported too with plans to improve the lighting in the grounds to enable a safe ‘after dark’ experience.
Designs, which remain conceptual and are subject to further development, have been released to give residents an idea of what to expect from this transformative project. These will form part of the application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the next stage will be waiting for approval of this, expected in early spring.
Smoke control specialist acquired by Mansfield firm
Mansfield-headquartered TIS has acquired NSP (Nationwide Specialist Projects Limited), a smoke control and ventilation specialist providing greater levels of safety in high-rise buildings.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone in TIS’ ambitious growth strategy and enables it to continue delivering its promise of bringing new, smarter, impactful technology solutions to customers that help to improve safety, reduce costs and streamline operations.
The combined expertise of TIS and NSP will bring to the market the industry’s first technology-agnostic, fully integrated, automated fire detection, alert and smoke control system for customers. The acquisition has been supported by Key Capital Partners (KCP) who themselves acquired a significant minority share in TIS in 2021.
The 20-strong NSP team will continue to operate from its Kidderminster headquarters, expanding TIS’ West Midlands presence. TIS’ offices in Mansfield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Leeds and Uxbridge expands NSP’s reach to a national level.
James Twigg, CEO at TIS, said: “This acquisition is a decisive step forward for TIS, leveraging our recent growth capital to realise our broader vision of bringing processes and innovations that improve the way the world is protected as it lives and works.
“The deal strengthens our core capabilities and provides opportunities to enter other high-growth sectors such as residential developments. Together with NSP, we’re bridging an important gap in fire safety and smoke control.
“Our engagement with NSP was born out of a desire to provide access to valued resources that perfectly complement our own. The NSP management team brings significant industry knowledge and commercial expertise to TIS.
“Culturally it feels like a perfect fit with both businesses demonstrating a passion for delivering premium service. We are excited to welcome NSP into the TIS family and for our current customers to have access to even more systems under our unique offering of services and solutions.”
Lee Hewings, Managing Director at NSP, said: “NSP’s journey to this point has been about forging valuable collaborations and I am excited about the immediate opportunities our partnership with TIS will bring, enabling us to offer our innovative smoke control services, expertise and knowledge to a much larger audience.
“There are many similarities commercially and culturally between the way TIS and NSP operate, and I believe TIS’ flexible, innovative approach to the design, installation and maintenance of integrated life safety and security systems will complement us well, bringing significant additional value to our customers.”
James Hall, managing partner of Key Capital, said: “The acquisition of NSP by TIS brings together two market-leading businesses and creates a group with real critical mass and a strongly differentiated proposition.
“We are excited by the group’s future and the TIS board is looking forward to working with Lee and his highly-skilled team to build something really special.”
Six-month turnaround sees developer sell Newark industrial unit
Midlands property developer Rotherhill has sold Brunel House, located within Brunel Drive Industrial Estate in Newark, following its acquisition of the unit in March 2023.
Purchased by a local creative event production company, the property is based in Newark’s principal industrial area and comprises a building of 27,500 sq ft with an additional extensive mezzanine, set upon a total site area of 2.65 acres.
Rotherhill purchased the property from Vodafone which operated it as a call centre facility. The building was originally constructed in 1989 as an industrial facility for Fleur de Lys Automobiles to manufacture vehicles.
Ed Jeffrey of Rotherhill says: “This property is in an excellent location within an established industrial estate and benefits from strong transport links.
“Understanding the local market and demand for good quality second-hand industrial space with extensive hardstanding / yard areas, we saw the opportunity to return the property to its originally intended, industrial, use.
“We are pleased to have sold the property to a successful Newark based business. The building will facilitate their growth and future job creation.”
Will Torr of heb acted on behalf of Rotherhill in the acquisition of the property and marketed the building alongside joint agent Anthony Barrowcliffe from FHP.
Will Torr of heb said: “The acquisition strategy centred on repositioning the well-known call centre and re-offering to the market a detached warehouse with high quality offices, mezzanine, and substantial yard. Subsequently, we received a large amount of interest and were pleased to see the building sell to an expanding local owner occupier.”
Anthony Barrowcliffe from FHP added: “I am delighted that after high levels of interest we could find the right buyer for this building. This new facility will support a local business’s growth and secure their future.”
