Prime Minister urged to ‘switch on’ East Midlands by naming the date for electrification of final section of Midland Mainline

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Prime Minister urged to ‘switch on’ East Midlands by naming the date for electrification of final section of Midland Mainline
Rishi Sunak has been urged to ‘switch on’ the East Midlands rail network as fast as possible by accelerating work to electrify the region’s main link to London. The Midland Mainline carries 3.75 million passenger journeys a year between Chesterfield, Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and London, but trains still have to travel on diesel power for part of the journey – impacting emissions, reliability and the time it takes to travel. While the Midland Mainline section between London and Bedford was switched to electric power in the 1980s, the final section into the heart of the East Midlands still hasn’t been upgraded 40 years on. Now, the region’s local authorities have come together under the banner of Transport for East Midlands to call on government to name the date when work will start on a project that has been planned for years and was highlighted as a transport priority two years ago in government’s Integrated Rail Plan. Sir Peter Soulsby, the elected Mayor of Leicester who also chairs Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM), said: “In the wake of the decision to cancel HS2, our message to the Government is simple and unequivocal – name the date for Midland Mainline electrification, sign the project off and switch on the East Midlands rail network. “If we’re not proceeding with high-speed rail then we must upgrade our existing infrastructure as a matter of urgency. Midland Mainline will be able to offer a better service for more people on upgraded trains if the final stretch into the East Midlands is at last electrified.” Sir Peter added: “We need to change Westminster’s attitude towards transport investment in the East Midlands. We receive too little, it takes too long, and the huge potential of our businesses and communities is not being fulfilled. This has to change if we’re to power up our future.” As it stands, 80% of the environmental benefits of travelling by train instead of car can be lost due to the emissions from locomotives moving under diesel power. Diesel trains are also noisier, and impact air quality along the line and in stations. Transport for East Midlands has set out the case for Midland Mainline electrification in a new report called ‘The Future is Electric’. Produced by expert transport analysts, the report shows that: · Midland Mainline adds £450m a year to the economy · Passenger numbers on the line have more than doubled since the 1990s · Midland Mainline’s catchment is more densely populated than either West Coast or East Coast mainlines · But while they are fully electrified, Midland Mainline is not · Fully electric trains will be cheaper to operate, faster and more reliable · Midland Mainline’s diesel operations emit 48,000 tonnes of CO2 a year · Experience shows an electrification programme will benefit local jobs and businesses first. Electrification of the final section of the Midland Mainline would also become part of a much wider electrically-powered rail corridor, joining up with government’s Network North plan for electrification of the Hope Valley Line between Manchester and Sheffield, the line between Leeds and Sheffield, and enhancements between Nottingham and Newark. Sir Peter Soulsby said: “This isn’t just about the Midland Mainline finally receiving the investment it needs. It also makes strategic sense to upgrade the line so that it becomes part of a regional and national electrified rail network.”

Older person’s scheme reaches milestone

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Older person’s scheme reaches milestone
An older person’s scheme in Clifton has reached a significant milestone, with the first bricks for the 50 new apartments laid. These homes are part of the redevelopment of the old South Nottingham College off Farnborough Road in Clifton. The three-storey building, which has been named Farnborough Court, will have a mix of one and two-bed apartments, each fitted with a wet room for people aged 55 and over. Whilst the homes are self-contained, the scheme includes shared facilities, such as lounges, a kitchen and gardens. On-site staff will be on hand to provide additional support, and the building and surrounding areas will be fully accessible with facilities for storing mobility scooters. Allan Fisher, director of development at NCHA, said: “It was great to visit site and see the build progressing so well. It feels good to be providing these bespoke apartments, giving older people a greater choice in where they want to live.” There’s a special focus to make these new homes energy efficient. This will both reduce their carbon footprint and help reduce energy costs for the new residents. The homes will be completely gas-free, and fitted with PV solar panels. The walls, floors and ceilings are filled with thick insulation and the windows are argon filled to keep the warm air in. NCHA are working with Nottingham City Council, Homes England and Geda Construction to deliver the development which is due to be completed by winter 2024. Councillor Jay Hayes, Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “The council welcomes this new affordable development for older people in Clifton. New homes of all types and tenures contribute towards local people being able to live in safe, warm and affordable homes, built to a high standard, in vibrant local neighbourhoods where everyone has a chance to thrive.”

Businessman reveals £5m vision to transform landmark Oakham hotel

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Businessman reveals £5m vision to transform landmark Oakham hotel

Rutland-based businessman Ryck Turner has unveiled his £5 million plan to create the quintessential English country inn located in the heart of Oakham.

The 54-year-old entrepreneur, who lives in Whissendine, bought the Whipper-In hotel and a number of neighbouring buildings in Market Place in the town for over £3 million last year.

Now he aims to spend a further £2 million extending, refurbishing and reshaping the inn.

Ryck’s grand design for the 17th Century Grade II listed building, which used to be called The George Hotel, includes creating a new restaurant to replace the current dining room, with the kitchen being doubled in size. The new dining room, which will face out onto the Market Place, will have a guests-only cocktail bar and an exclusive private dining room and lounge on the floor above.

He also plans to convert the coach house at the back of the property into a unit with bedrooms, a 15-seater private cinema, a gym and spa featuring a treatment salon, a sauna and a jacuzzi.

The masterplan for the new hotel, which is to be renamed The George Inn, will see the business run 18 bedrooms.

As well as the Whipper-In, Ryck also acquired the building which housed the Rutland Chinese Restaurant, the building currently occupied by Curtis bakery and the building where the Cancer Research UK shop is trading.

Ryck, who moved to Rutland five years ago, said: “I drove past the hotel in the spring of 2022, loved the look of it and thought the location was perfect. Within a few weeks I had paid £3 million for the hotel and the three buildings along the row.

“When I was a schoolboy at Oundle School I used to go for lazy Sunday lunches with my parents at The George Hotel in nearby Stamford and I thought that was heaven on earth. It was all so relaxed and convivial and we could just sit there playing cards and board games.

“To me that was the quintessential English country inn and that is what I want recreate here in Oakham. I saw the Whipper-In and thought: ’This can be my George Hotel’. That is when I set myself the challenge to make that happen.”

Ryck joined his family business, which was started as a wholesale and retail newsagents in Sheffield in 1891 by his great great grandfather Harry Turner, almost 30 years ago. The business evolved over the years moving into commercial property, crisp manufacturing and pet food manufacturing.

While continuing to manage the family property portfolio, Ryck has also created his own commercial property investment business.

The first thing Ryck did after buying the Whipper-In was to spend a year refurbishing and re-engineering many aspects of the hotel while keeping it open and running.

“The hotel needed a lot of TLC,” said Ryck. “So, I have spent the first 12 months having the place largely redecorated and redressed and certain aspects, including a new cellar cooling system in the bar, updated and refurbished. This process, which included bringing in new furniture, has enabled us to stay open and to continue to welcome guests while improving the customer experience.”

Ryck plans to tackle the future renovation, redesign and expansion of the hotel in phases.

“As things stand, the first phase will be to transform the old coach house at the back of the hotel near Burley Road into a fabulous new area which will feature bedrooms, a 15-seater private cinema, a gym and spa, featuring a treatment salon, a sauna and a jacuzzi,” he said.

“The idea behind this is that guests seeking peace and quiet can arrive here, and if they want to, enjoy a relaxing stay without having to leave the hotel as we will provide all the facilities they want.

“The hotel is ideally placed in the heart of the town. Some bedrooms have a wonderful view of the Market Place with Oakham School and Oakham Castle just yards away and the spire of All Saints Church in the background. Other bedrooms feature the original oak beams and some look out onto the courtyard garden.

“My dream is to have this hotel providing guests with a fantastic customer experience through a combination of a convivial atmosphere, first-class service and top-quality food.

“I am big believer that things happen for a reason. I think it is fate that I identified this place as perfect to create my own version of the George Hotel not knowing that it used to share the same name. Now all I have to do is create a coaching inn that befits that name.”

Inside the lounge area at the Whipper-In Hotel in Oakham’s Market Place

Northern Irish firm acquires Ilkeston precast concrete drainage business

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Northern Irish firm acquires Ilkeston precast concrete drainage business
Northern Irish firm Tracey Concrete has acquired Stanton Precast Drainage of Ilkeston. SATEBA, a French and European leader in sustainable rail infrastructure, has sold the Stanton Precast Drainage business. Tracey Concrete has been an established name in precast concrete drainage since 1979. A statement from Tracey Concrete says: “We are pleased to announce a significant milestone for Tracey Concrete in the UK market. We have successfully acquired Stanton Precast Drainage in Ilkeston, Derby. “This strategic move is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality precast drainage solutions and reinforces our position in the industry. By merging our expertise and resources, we are well-positioned for continued expansion and success.” A statement from SATEBA says: “With a shared vision for the future, we’re confident this transition will herald a promising era for the Stanton drainage business, which was not a core business for SATEBA. “SATEBA is retaining its UK infrastructure and rail business and remains committed to its UK team for future development. The company will remain on the same site which has been split between the two companies.”

Pendragon shareholders vote in favour of Lithia bid

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Pendragon shareholders vote in favour of Lithia bid
In a general meeting, the shareholders of car retailer Pendragon have voted in favour of Lithia’s bid for the company’s UK motor and leasing business. Backed by 98% of shareholders, the offer by Lithia UK Holding Limited, a subsidiary of Lithia Motors, was revealed last month and was followed by a number of alternative bids from firms including Hedin and PAG International and AutoNation, who ultimately backed out of the acquisition race. Lithia Motors, one of the largest automotive retailers in North America, had increased its offer for Pendragon’s UK motor business and leasing business to £367 million. The total cash consideration is £397 million, including a previously publicly disclosed subscription for shares in Pendragon. Pendragon and Lithia also agreed the terms of a strategic partnership, including the rollout of Pinewood, the company’s dealer management software (DMS) business, to Lithia’s existing 50 UK sites, and the creation of a joint venture to accelerate Pinewood’s entry into the attractive North American DMS market.

As part of the transaction, it was announced that Pendragon’s Pinewood division, which operates the company’s proprietary DMS business, would become a standalone entity, retaining Pendragon’s existing listing on the London Stock Exchange and creating a pure play Software as a Service (SaaS) business with an accelerated growth plan.

East Midlands entrepreneurs take a hit as insolvency activity rises and start-ups fall, yet cashflow continues to improve

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East Midlands entrepreneurs take a hit as insolvency activity rises and start-ups fall, yet cashflow continues to improve

A fall in the number of start-up businesses in the East Midlands, as well as a rise in insolvency activity, indicates a significant economic challenge for local entrepreneurs entering the final quarter of 2023.

This is according to the Midlands branch of national insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and is based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe.

R3’s figures show a month-on-month decrease of 5.81% in the number of businesses set up in the East Midlands in September, falling from 2,462 to 2,319, while insolvency-related activity – which includes liquidator and administrator appointments as well as creditors’ meetings – rose by 36.05% over the same period.

R3 reports, however, that business cashflow continues to rally against a challenging economy, with a marginal fall of 0.55% in the number of East Midlands companies with late payments on their books, a downward trend in the region which has continued over the last six months.

R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a director at law firm Thursfields in the region, said: “While this research contains some flickers of positivity for East Midlands companies, the economic backdrop remains vastly unstable, making it very difficult for businesses to forecast the challenges they will be facing next week, let alone next month.

“Monthly corporate insolvency figures are at their highest in many years, with director fatigue and creditor pressure meaning many companies are turning to an insolvency process to help resolve their financial issues.

“While the number of East Midlands companies with late payments on their books continues to fall, the statistic remains high at 23,331. Coupled with rising insolvency figures, it is clear that many organisations, both start-ups and established businesses, are now at a point where they need specialist help to survive.

“R3’s advice to any director who is concerned about the viability of their company is to seek professional help as soon as problems arise, with more potential solutions available to turn the business around. Many R3 members offer a free consultation to those who wish to explore their options.”

Refurbished Staveley business park 66% let

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Refurbished Staveley business park 66% let
Hartington Business Park at Staveley, which completed a refurbishment in July, has already secured significant lettings since its launch to market in January this year. Marketed by letting specialists Commercial Property Partners (CPP), alongside Knight Frank, on behalf of the Devonshire Property Group, interest to date in the brand new, terraced, industrial warehouse accommodation has been exceptionally strong, resulting in three of the units already snapped up with a fourth under offer – leaving just two available. Ranging in size from 2,479 sq ft up to 4,899 sq ft, the units have been built to a shell specification allowing occupiers the flexibility to utilise the space for maximum business benefits. Office fit-out packages are also available from the landlord, if required. The Hartington units, built with a steel portal frame and steel profile cladding, offer 6m clear height, secure concrete yards, EV charging points, full fibre broadband and ample parking spaces. CPP senior surveyor Max Pickering said: “Hartington Business Park has been built to a high specification and is in a great location for a range of commercial or industrial businesses looking to have a base in central Derbyshire. “Its easy access to the M1 has garnered interest from a variety of would-be tenants and we are confident the remaining units will be occupied in the very near future. “Its accessibility to a large skilled workforce within commuting distance of Chesterfield, Sheffield, Doncaster and Nottingham, has also been a strong pull for businesses looking to relocate.” Adam Mayfield, property development surveyor at the Devonshire Property Group, said: “We are delighted at the current appetite for Hartington Business Park, testament to a first-class build, fit out and premium location. “Our thanks to the team at CPP for their support and expertise in securing the current deals and ongoing marketing.”

Robotics firm set to occupy part of Lincoln office building

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Robotics firm set to occupy part of Lincoln office building
Part of the G Tech Building on Firth Road Business Park in Lincoln will be occupied by a firm operating in the robotics sector, confirms the local agency of Eddisons incorporating Banks Long & Co. The agency’s Lincoln office acted as joint agent with Fisher German, on behalf of the landlord, in a deal which sees the robotics firm take a lease on 7,740 sq ft of ground and first floor office space out of a total of 11,000 sq ft of business accommodation in the G Tech Building. Neighbouring occupiers on Firth Road Business Park include Siemens PLC, ITP & Aero Engines UK Ltd among other technology industry occupiers. The Firth Road Business Park is a short walk from the University of Lincoln’s city centre campus. While the name of the new occupier remains to be announced by the agents, following fit-out of its new premises, William Wall, director, Eddisons incorporating Banks Long & Co, said: “Robotics is one of the fastest growing of the new industrial sectors and an active area for R&D – particularly in the Agri-Tech field where robotics figures alongside digital technologies & artificial intelligence. “Together with the aerospace & defence sectors and large scale commercial logistics operators, robotics is a sector which is helping to re-present the commercial profile of Lincolnshire to new investors and operators.”

Leading accountancy practices merge

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Leading accountancy practices merge
Streets Chartered Accountants, a top 40 UK accountancy practice, has announced the establishment of Streets Steele Chartered Certified Accountants following the merger of the award-winning Bristol practice, Steele Financial with Streets Chartered Accountants. Ben Steele, now Managing Director of Streets Steele, said: “Having started Steele Financial only six years ago we have experienced significant growth and as such, in line with the advice we give our clients, we recognised the need to develop our practice to service growing demand. “In particular it would seem our approach to run a true cloud based and digital accountancy practice along with providing clients a virtual finance office, certainly has made us an attractive proposition for many entrepreneurs and businesses alike. “Recognising the potential, along with the need for us to provide a greater breadth of services, we sought to join up with a larger practice who can not only support us but also support the needs of our clients, now and in the future. We are delighted to say we have found that in Streets Chartered Accountants. “We also believe that our clients will benefit in that the combined firm will be able to offer a wider range of services, including areas of specialist corporate and private client tax planning, international advice and personal financial planning.” Looking at what the merger means to Streets, the firm’s managing partner, Paul Tutin, said: “We are delighted and excited to have Steele Financial become part of the Streets wide practice. “Ben and his team, including fellow director Ryan Saward, are a truly inspiring practice and have earned an enviable reputation, not just in Bristol, but also in London and further afield, for their progressive approach and innovative use of technology to look after the needs of clients. “Such an approach has seen them successfully grow a broad client base as well as particular sector specialisms in hospitality, food and drink and media and entertainment. “We are looking forward to working with Ben and his team on enhancing and developing a practice wide virtual finance office and our respective sector specialisms. “This recent merger comes on the back of an earlier one this year, with Streets Eadie Young in Banbury, Oxfordshire and this time last year Streets Whittles in Colchester, Essex. In line with our own growth aspirations, we also recently opened a new office in Burnley, Lancashire and are currently in talks with a number of practices around further mergers. “With Streets Steele in Bristol, we now have 23 offices from Burnley in the north to Brighton in the south. “Whilst many large firms have moved to more regional models, Streets remains committed to and focused on looking after clients that live, work and operate businesses in the local area. This approach is very much at the heart of our strategic focus for growth, which is likely to include further mergers of like-minded firms. Our aspiration is to become a top 20 UK practice by 2030.”

MTMS founder shortlisted for Rail Benefit Fund’s Heart of Gold Awards

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MTMS founder shortlisted for Rail Benefit Fund’s Heart of Gold Awards

A business owner who has dedicated more than two decades to the rail industry has been shortlisted for a prestigious award for his tireless work helping those less fortunate.

Malcolm Prentice, group chairman of MTMS, based in Moira, near Swadlincote, is in the running for the Lifetime Achievement award for the 2023 Rail Benefit Fund’s Heart of Gold Awards.

The awards celebrate those in the rail industry who have made a real difference in their workplace or community. The nominations are put forward by those working in the industry to thank people who they appreciate, value and inspire them.

Organisers said they received more than 90 nominations as they were “flooded with many inspiring and heart-warming stories.”

The award nomination says of Mr Prentice: “Malcolm Prentice has been a leader, mentor, and generous benefactor in the rail industry for over 20 years. With his heart-warming, gentle approach, patience and engaging good humour, he has shown limitless, and often unseen, benevolence and generosity.

“Caring for the poorest in society across big rail hotspots of the Midlands, he has helped countless young people in their development. With a focus on those in care, Malcolm has arranged Christmas lunches for those who are released from care and are finding life difficult.

“Recently he established hardship funds for cadets, and for decades he has supported hundreds of recently discharged veterans, many of whom work in the rail industry now.

“For over 40 years he has been quietly providing a springboard for the least fortunate in society whilst mentoring those new into business and providing professional guidance that has led many to generate success.”

Mr Prentice, whose charitable work includes a party at Christmas for young people who have come out of the care system and supporting the Armed Forces cadets, said: “I’m almost embarrassed to be nominated, but extremely privileged.

“I hope that if I do win, it would enable me to be a mouthpiece for the small UK manufacturing rail industry. This is a changing industry so they do need to have that voice.

“Businesses work with many charities and they do what they can to help young people. This is not about me. I am humbled by it but this is for the SMEs and to support the industry.”

There are five award categories that contenders are shortlisted for – Rising Star, Lifetime Achievement, Team, Wellbeing Champion and Rail Hero Award.

Voters have until October 31 to select their winner.

The winners will be announced online once the voting has closed and they will be invited to London later in the month to receive their awards from Rail Benefit Fund president Pete Waterman.

College’s £3.5m automotive training facility gets go-ahead

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College’s £3.5m automotive training facility gets go-ahead
Plans by Derby College Group to extend one of its sites to create a workshop for engineering students have been given the green light. Earlier this year, the college lodged proposals with Derby City Council for the extension at the rear of the current Stephenson Building at its Roundhouse campus on Pride Park. Now, the city council’s planning committee have given the scheme the go-ahead. The two-storey motor vehicle facility, which is due to open in September next year, has been made possible thanks to £3.5 million from the Government’s Post 16 Capacity Fund. Speaking in July, Steven Elliott, the college’s head of technology apprenticeships, said: “This facility will help strengthen the automotive skills of today’s learners and support the education of the next generation. “We want to inspire anyone who is interested in working in the automotive industry as it is an ever-changing and exciting area to work in. It really has evolved and it’s now an extremely technical industry which requires an abundance of new skills. “By creating this propose-built training centre, DCG will be perfectly placed to meet the needs of the learners and of the employers.” The new facility is a response to changing automotive technology, including the evolving requirements for electric vehicles. The college said it will meet local and national skills requirements and is reflective of learner demand. The building itself will be built in the most efficient and sustainable way in order to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. To accomplish this, the construction will be future-proofed and will incorporate air-source heat pumps, thermal-resistant materials and solar panels. Speaking in July, Iain Baldwin, director of estate at Derby College Group, said: “The building will be in the region of 1,150 metres and will incorporate facilities such as high-level lifts, and a double workshop and will be designed to integrate with the existing Stephenson Building. “And the construction will be environmentally friendly incorporating the latest building techniques and materials.”

Council leader gives “untold damage” warning on rail interchange

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Council leader gives “untold damage” warning on rail interchange
“Untold damage” to rural communities is in store if plans for the huge 662-acre Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange (HNRFI) go ahead, according to Councillor Terry Richardson, Leader of Blaby District Council. He says the scheme, earmarked for swathes of countryside southwest of Elmesthorpe, would change the rural character of the District and its village communities forever. His warning comes as the Council submits its latest formal submission, the Written Representation. In it the Council says it “vehemently opposes the HNRFI due to the far-reaching adverse environmental and social impacts it would cause in the local area.” The Written Representation and a Local Impact Report, highlighting serious concerns about the scheme, have been lodged with the Planning Inspectorate. The Inspectorate is scrutinising the rail freight hub plans, during a six-month examination. Proposed by developer Tritax Symmetry, the hub would sit between the M69 and the Leicester to Birmingham rail line. Neither the Council, nor the Planning Inspectorate can approve nor reject the plans. Due to its status as a National Infrastructure Project its fate will ultimately be decided by the Secretary of State for Transport. However, as a statutory consultee, the Council can raise issues through written submissions as well as at the various meetings and hearings which are taking place through to next spring. Building on previous concerns, the Council’s Written Representation says the scheme has significant deficiencies and fails to mitigate some of its most negative impacts. Objections include that it:
  • Does not have a sufficient transport strategy in place and so will cause significant adverse road network impacts
  • Has not been subject to adequate consultations with local residents
  • Does not include a satisfactory noise pollution assessment
  • Fails to explain the impacts in neighbouring villages such as Narborough from the increased rail crossing barrier downtime
  • Does not provide adequate plans to retain employment benefits in the District
Cllr Richardson said: “We have raised concerns about these proposals ever since they were mooted and our opposition has not changed – in fact it has become more vehement. This scheme would give rise to untold and irreversible damage to our village communities. “Tritax have completely failed to consult adequately and take on board local feeling. Measures to mitigate some of the most negative impacts of the development simply do not go far enough. We have repeatedly raised these points and Tritax have repeatedly failed to act. “If this proposal goes ahead in its present form our communities would be saddled with a monstrous blot on the landscape, noise and light glare 24/7 and huge lorries using villages as rat runs. “We will continue to fight these plans and I would urge any members of the public who are able, to join us at the upcoming hearings and help fight them too.”

Agri-food firms can tap into funding from new £7.5m pot

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Agri-food firms can tap into funding from new £7.5m pot
Agri-food businesses in Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland can now apply for funding from a £7.5m pot to support innovation and growth.
A partnership of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, New Anglia LEP (covering Norfolk and Suffolk), and the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority has been awarded the funding from Innovate UK under the Launchpads programme. The programme welcomes SMEs in the region to apply for competitive grants for R&D and innovation projects that focus on agrifood. The grant funding available starts from £25,000, and up to £300,000 is available for projects that provide exceptional impact to the cluster. To be eligible, projects must make a significant contribution to one or more of the following:
  • enhancing the productivity of primary crops, the bioeconomy, livestock, aquaculture or ornamental plants
  • biotechnologies related to agriculture, food and nutrition
  • food that promotes safe, healthy and nutritious diets
  • resource-efficient production methods for low-emission foods
Projects can focus on one or more of the following:
  • sustainability in the context of environmental challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity
  • protecting, maintaining or enhancing animal welfare within current UK regulatory standard
  • nutritional composition, food manufacturing and processing, packaging, and safety
  • minimising negative effects such as pollution, food loss and waste
  • resilience and responsiveness in the supply chain, mitigating risks, interruptions or disruptions
Businesses applying for grant funding must either be based in Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland, Norfolk, Suffolk or Cambridgeshire, or be able to demonstrate how their project will significantly benefit those areas. Sarah-Louise Fairburn, Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP’s Food Board, said: “The announcement of a Launchpad supporting SMEs in our agrifood sector is warmly welcomed. “This news comes just days after the announcement of a £4.9 million grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to help transform the Lincolnshire and north Cambridgeshire (LINCAM) region into a global innovation centre for agricultural technology. “The team at the Greater Lincolnshire LEP has worked hard over a number of months to secure one of only eight Innovation Launchpads in the country for the Lincolnshire food and agritech sectors. “Both announcements put us firmly on course to achieve the ambitious goal of the new UK Food Valley, which is to establish Greater Lincolnshire as a top 10 global food cluster.”

Storm Babet damages packaging manufacturer’s Chesterfield facilities

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Storm Babet damages packaging manufacturer’s Chesterfield facilities

Robinson plc, the custom manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging, has revealed damage to its Chesterfield premises following Storm Babet.

On 20 October, the river Hipper, which flows by Robinson’s premises in Chesterfield, rose to its highest ever known level and flooded through part of the site.

Part of the premises is occupied by the Group, including the Paperbox manufacturing business and the Robinson head office, with the remainder let to tenants. The Paperbox business represented 4% of the Group’s revenues in 2022. The Group’s plastics business was unaffected.

In a statement Robinson said: “The first and main priority was the safety of those working at the site and the implementation of emergency procedures to mitigate the overall impact. We are pleased to report that despite some challenging circumstances everyone has remained safe.

“Despite the substantial efforts of our employees, there has been some damage caused to facilities, materials and equipment and manufacturing operations have paused. There will be disruption as the site clean-up continues prior to recommencement of operations.

“We would like to thank the Robinson team and our external partners for their efforts and our customers and suppliers for their understanding.”

Leicestershire building products manufacturer produces “resilient” third quarter performance

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Leicestershire building products manufacturer produces “resilient” third quarter performance
Ibstock, the manufacturer of building products, has hailed a “resilient” performance in its third quarter, which it says reflects a “continued focus on customer service and execution, coupled with the disciplined management of capacity and costs.” Market demand in the period was more subdued than expected, seeing sales volumes below those achieved during the second quarter of the year. Despite these weaker volumes, Ibstock notes effective cost reduction action combined with stable pricing resulted in margins for the quarter remaining robust. The firm added: “The Board anticipates that the benefits of its actions will continue to mitigate demand weakness in the final quarter and, consequently, its underlying profit expectations for the 2023 financial year are unchanged.” Joe Hudson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “The Group delivered a resilient performance in the third quarter despite a very challenging market backdrop. I am proud of the way that everyone at Ibstock has remained focused on the delivery of a strong operational performance while also ensuring that the Group made continued strategic progress. “As macroeconomic conditions stabilise, we expect a recovery in market activity, reflecting the significant underlying demand for new build housing in the UK. Whilst we are taking a cautious view around the pace and timing of this recovery, we remain confident in our ability to continue to respond to market conditions, taking the action necessary to protect performance, while ensuring the business remains well-positioned for an increase in activity.”

Leef acquires Nottingham-based lettings business

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Leef acquires Nottingham-based lettings business
A property management business has acquired the lettings arm of Hockley Developments, one of the largest supported living and residential development companies based in the East Midlands. The Leef Property Group has acquired Sherwood Lettings and Management Ltd adding Sherwood’s 100+ units to its existing 3,000-strong portfolio of managed properties, which span from the Midlands to the North East and Yorkshire. The Warrington-based business, which has operated a local team in the Nottingham area for more than five years, already has experienced agents covering the Midlands region to lease and manage the properties, supported by its head office function. This latest acquisition is another boost to Leef’s fast ascending trajectory that’s seen it bolster its portfolio by more than 800 managed properties already this year. It’s on track to more than double its current portfolio within the next three years through new relationships with developers, investment companies and sales agencies. Joe Knowles, co-founder and director of The Leef Property Group, said: “We’ve had a close relationship with Hockley Developments for a number of years and are familiar with its developments, so taking over the professional management of its rental portfolio fits perfectly into our operating model and specialisms. “We’re expanding rapidly within the Nottingham area, which has a burgeoning rental market. Track Capital’s 2023 report placed Nottingham seventh out of all towns and cities in the UK in terms of rental yields. The average for Nottingham properties is 5.94%, which is well above the East Midlands average of 4.1%. “As we have a proven scalable model, and unrivalled experience, we believe we have the capability to more than double our operations by attracting a range of clients from asset managers to property developers who are placing new schemes under our full management. Business acquisition is another key part of our future growth strategy.” Managing Director of Hockley Developments and Sherwood Lettings, Alan Forsyth said: “The sale of our rentals management arm to Leef enables us to focus on our core business strategy, most notably the design and build of Supported Living developments, as well as sustainably led residential schemes.” Lettings manager Daniella Martin added: “It will also ensure that Landlords will benefit from Leef’s exceptional levels of service, delivered through its well-honed processes and experienced team.”

Future support for businesses and economic prosperity across the South East Midlands assured

Tess Egginton
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Future support for businesses and economic prosperity across the South East Midlands assured
Future support for businesses and economic prosperity across the region has been assured this week following a recent agreement by six councils. This week the SEMLEP Board and Central Area Growth Board (CAGB), the group of Leaders from the area’s six local authorities, approved recommendations for West Northamptonshire Council to be the host authority to take on Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) functions by 1st April 2024. These include strategic economic planning, the Growth Hub, which supports and strengthens businesses, and the Careers Hub, which links schools and colleges with employers to create world-class careers opportunities. The decision follows an announcement from Central Government that it would cease core funding of Local Enterprise Partnerships from April 2024 and for the LEP functions to be delivered by local authorities. Working in collaboration, the six local authorities – Bedford and Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire – will build on the successes of the LEP to secure the future economic success of the South East Midlands region. SEMLEP (South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership) and West Northamptonshire Council will now prepare for the transfer. Further work will happen over the coming weeks and months, led by the Central Area Growth Board, including shaping more detailed proposals for the engagement of local businesses. Hilary Chipping, SEMLEP Chief Executive, said: “This decision marks the end of a long period of uncertainty for the SEMLEP team. We remain committed to responding to the needs of local businesses through our Growth Hub and Careers Hub and will work with our local authority partners to ensure a seamless transition to the new arrangements.” Councillor Jonathan Nunn, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Co-Chair of the Central Area Growth Board, said: “SEMLEP has carried out excellent, invaluable work in supporting our region’s many businesses and boosting economic prosperity across our area and all six local authorities are dedicated to building upon those achievements under these new arrangements from spring next year. “West Northants is privileged to be chosen to host these functions on behalf of all partners, and we will continue to work closely and collaboratively to support and strengthen business communities across our region and shape fresh opportunities for all.” Councillor Pete Marland, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council and Co-Chair of the Central Area Growth Board, said: “It is important the business services currently provided by the South East Midlands LEP continue to be available and I am very pleased that the six local authorities in the area have come together to ensure that continuity.”

Trustees sought to drive forward Barrow Hill Memorial Hall refurb

Tess Egginton
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Trustees sought to drive forward Barrow Hill Memorial Hall refurb
Barrow Hill Community Trust is searching for new volunteer trustees to help support the delivery of a major project to refurbish Barrow Hill Memorial Hall. The Trust is the community development charity for the village of Barrow Hill and surrounding neighbourhoods. With around £1.8 million of funding through the Staveley Town Deal and National Heritage Lottery Fund, the trust will be refurbishing the historic Memorial Hall to create a new community hub where local people can access a variety of essential support services and socialise together. Simon Redding, Chair of the Barrow Hill Community Trust, said: “This is a really exciting time for the entire community, our ambitious plans will help create stronger connections in the community and ensure local residents can access the support they need. “We’re looking for trustees who can spare some of their time to help steer the delivery of this project and ensure we can maximise the benefits for residents.” The Trust is particularly keen to hear from potential trustees who have experience in capital project management, finance, or communications. Barrow Hill Memorial Hall was gifted to the community in 1920 by Charles Paxton Markham as a community war memorial that could be used to support the local community. In 2024 it will be 100 years since the Deed of Trust was approved and to mark the centenary the Trust aims to refurbish the building to serve the community whilst honouring its legacy and past. Plans for the refurbished hall are extensive including new community spaces, enhanced facilities for young people and children, provision for medical facilities, and classroom space. Please e-mail info@barrowhill.community to express your interest.

Charity sleepout returns to Nottingham – and calls for business leaders to take part

Tess Egginton
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Charity sleepout returns to Nottingham – and calls for business leaders to take part
A successful charity initiative to combat homelessness is returning to Nottingham for the seventh time. CEO Sleepout, a national initiative that raises awareness of and funding for homelessness, will return with an event on November 9th at Meadow Lane Stadium, and has issued a call for local business and community leaders to sign up. Homelessness is a growing issue in Nottingham, and chief executive of CEO Sleepout Bianca Robinson said: “According to the latest figures from Shelter, 1,614 people are homeless in Nottingham, which equates to a shocking one in every 201. “Sadly, with the cost-of-living crisis showing no signs of slowing down and rents increasing across the country, we expect these figures to increase – which is why something must be done. “The CEO Sleepout has a great deal of support from businesses across Nottinghamshire and it’s not surprising that we already have nearly 50 business leaders signed up to take part. Since 2016, CEO Sleepout has raised over £270,000 by and for the people of Nottingham. With this year’s efforts, we hope to take that figure well over the £300,000 threshold!” Bianca hopes that the Nottingham Sleepout will raise £50,000 and is looking for another 20 people to sign up. She added: “Business leaders have the power, the opportunity and the responsibility to ensure they are active within communities and play a role in strengthening the fabric of society. “It’s just one night and it is my hope that while looking up at the stars at 3am, they will consider actions they can take as leaders, and enforce these into their business to create greater social impact.” The event will benefit three different Nottingham causes – Emmanuel House, the Notts County Foundation and Friary Nottingham. Ben Talbot, from the Friary, said he was “thrilled” to once again be involved with the event. “Homelessness and the knock-in effects of it are being felt more than ever in Nottingham,” said Ben. “I would encourage anyone who feels strongly about supporting people who are experiencing this to sign up for the sleepout. “Not only will you make a contribution to the cause but you will feel first hand what it is like to be in this vulnerable position.” And Denis Tully, Chief Executive Officer from Emmanuel House, added money raised from the event will help support the charity’s Winter Shelter, which provides 27 beds each night on the coldest months of the year. “The work of the Shelter is about helping people find accommodation solutions. Out of the 107 people that used the Shelter last year we are able to support more than 50 per cent of guests into accommodation. “We anticipate that this year will be particularly demanding on the Shelter as the number of homeless people is increasing with a further likely increase to come. Being involved in the CEO Sleepout gives you an opportunity to gain more insight into what homelessness is about. “When it comes to donating financially you know you are supporting front line services. We can’t do it without you.” And with just weeks to go before the event, Bianca has issued a final call to get as many business leaders as possible to sign up and make it a night to remember, adding: “We aim to raise big money to support charities on the frontline of homelessness in the city, and at the same time bring business leaders together to gain a deeper understanding of the issues around homelessness locally.”

Caddick delivers over 2 million sq ft of industrial space in 2023 following completion of St. Modwen Park, Lincoln

Tess Egginton
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Caddick delivers over 2 million sq ft of industrial space in 2023 following completion of St. Modwen Park, Lincoln
Caddick Construction has handed over St. Modwen Logistics’ newest sustainable warehouse, becoming the latest in a line of industrial buildings for the construction firm. The £8m construction contract saw the delivery of a steel portal framed warehouse, featuring 10 dock levellers with an eaves height of 12.5 metres, making it the largest unit at St Modwen Park, Lincoln. Totalling 111,000 sq ft, Lincoln 111 is the fourth phase at St. Modwen Park in Lincoln. Rated BREEAM Excellent, this scheme secured an EPC A+ rating, helping its new occupiers to save on utility costs and reach their own Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) targets. Paul Dodsworth, Caddick Construction Group Managing Director, said: “St. Modwen Park further demonstrates our skill set in the industrial market and has been built on time and on budget for our valued development partner, St. Modwen Logistics. “This flagship scheme has taken our industrial projects this year alone up to 11, totalling £165 million and amounting to 1,988,234 sq ft. It’s a huge achievement for the business and I look forward to extending this pipeline further as we take on exciting new projects.” Ian Martin, senior construction manager at St. Modwen Logistics, said: “We are always striving to develop industry-leading warehouses in fantastic locations for our customers and by enlisting Caddick Construction’s expertise we have been able to achieve this once again at Lincoln 111. Caddick’s experience in the industry has led to our development being delivered on time and to the highest level of construction standards.”
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