Chesterfield council approves mixed-use development in town centre

April Lara
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Chesterfield council approves mixed-use development in town centre

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved plans to transform the former Eyres furniture store on Holywell Street into a mixed-use development. The scheme will deliver 20 residential apartments across the first to third floors, featuring one and two-bedroom layouts, alongside 10 ground-floor commercial units, including a café with kitchen facilities.

The application, submitted by a developer based in Sheffield, faced objections from local stakeholders concerned about potential overdevelopment, increased traffic, and the absence of on-site parking. The site is located on a busy section of Chesterfield town centre, surrounded by bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Approval of the project aligns with the council’s broader strategy to promote residential and commercial growth in central locations, supporting urban regeneration and increasing town centre footfall. The development is expected to create new business opportunities for retailers while contributing to the local housing supply.

Construction timelines and operational plans for the commercial units have yet to be announced. Stakeholders and potential investors in Chesterfield’s property and retail sectors will be watching how the scheme integrates with existing businesses and urban infrastructure.

Melton fulfilment firm expands with new warehouse

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Melton fulfilment firm expands with new warehouse
Fulfilment specialist Hallmark Consumer Services has expanded its operations with the addition of a new warehouse at its Grantham site. The additional facility has been developed to support a significant increase in demand for the company’s services, particularly contract packing and kit assembly. Hallmark Consumer Services is headquartered in Melton Mowbray, with a second site in Grantham providing access to the A1. The new facility increases the company’s overall warehousing space by 40 percent. As well as boosting Hallmark Consumer Services’ storage capacity and operational efficiency, the new warehouse enables the company to handle a wider range and volume of goods for its growing client portfolio. “This expansion marks a key milestone in our growth journey and is a testament to the strong and consistent demand we’ve seen for our services,” Philip Hall, managing director of Hallmark Consumer Services explains. “The new space not only provides us with room to grow over the next three years but also enables us to deliver even more responsive and adaptable fulfilment solutions. We’re proud to serve a diverse and growing client base that trusts us with their fulfilment and packing needs.”

Levi’s UK posts revenue growth despite workforce reduction

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Levi’s UK posts revenue growth despite workforce reduction

Levi Strauss’s UK division has reduced its workforce by nearly 230 roles, bringing headcount down to 1,630 in the year ending 30 November 2024. The cuts follow a period of expansion in 2023 and coincide with rising turnover, which climbed from £89m to £96.8m. Pre-tax profits increased to £9.5m, up from £7.7m the previous year.

The Northampton-based operation attributed part of its revenue growth to a global marketing campaign featuring Beyoncé, which strengthened brand visibility and reduced the need for discount-led sales. The business also reported shifts in consumer behaviour, with price-conscious shoppers increasingly using outlet stores.

Looking ahead, Levi’s UK intends to prioritise expansion in womenswear and tops, invest further in premium denim lines, and introduce more flexible production strategies to support growth and operational efficiency.

TUNE

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TUNE
TUNE is a developer with a visionary approach to delivering high-impact, design-led housing that prioritises sustainability, community, and long-term value. Through Modern Methods of Construction, environmental innovation, and thoughtful placemaking, the business is setting a new standard for affordable housing development in the East Midlands. Illustrating TUNE’s impact on the region is Prospect Place in Nottingham – an EPC A-rated, 100% affordable scheme recognised by Homes England – showcasing TUNE’s ability to regenerate challenging urban sites and create places that genuinely enhance lives.
Prospect Place
The development of 36 family homes on a previously neglected site, for Nottingham Community Housing Association, represents a significant investment in the regeneration of Lenton. Designed to provide high-quality, affordable homes for local families, Prospect Place’s homes feature low-carbon timber construction, air source heat pumps, and full-house ventilation systems to reduce energy bills, alleviate fuel poverty, and lower environmental impact. The development utilises low-carbon bricks, panelised timber frames, and precast foundations – ensuring a low embodied carbon footprint and exceeding government targets for Modern Methods of Construction. The homes have achieved an EPC rating of A, demonstrating their outstanding energy efficiency.
Find out more about TUNE on their LinkedIn page.

Local company takes 37,650 sq ft unit at Lime Kilns Business Park

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Local company takes 37,650 sq ft unit at Lime Kilns Business Park
Andrew + Ashwell has let Unit 14 at Lime Kilns Business Park, acting on behalf of LondonMetric PLC following their recent acquisition of Urban Logistics REIT. The transaction sees the property let to a thriving local company as part of its expansion plans. The modern detached industrial unit, constructed in 2020, provides 37,650 sq ft of industrial accommodation just off the A5 and within close proximity to the M69. “Despite ongoing economic challenges, the industrial market continues to show resilience, particularly in the mid-box sector where good quality space remains scarce,” said Kelvin Wilson, director at Andrew + Ashwell. “This letting highlights the strength of occupier demand in Leicestershire and the value of presenting high-specification space to the market.” Sam Pringle, asset manager at London Metric, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new tenant to Lime Kilns Business Park. This letting reflects our focus on maintaining high occupancy levels across the portfolio and ensuring our assets support the growth of dynamic local businesses.”

Futures appoints new board director specialising in technology

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Futures appoints new board director specialising in technology
Futures Housing Group has appointed Guv Dhaliwal as a new non-executive director to further strengthen the board’s expertise in digital and technology. Guv has over 25 years’ experience in senior technology leadership across the housing sector and large global businesses and brings extensive expertise in digital transformation and strategic leadership. Alongside his new appointment, Guv is chief information officer at housing association Amplius, where he leads on technology, data and transformation. Passionate about the role housing plays in people’s lives, Guv is motivated by using technology and data to improve services, strengthen communities and create long-term value for customers. Commenting on Guv’s appointment, group chair Pauline Davis said: “Like most organisations, we have to keep abreast of the fast changing digital environment. So we’re absolutely delighted to have found someone as experienced and well placed as Guv to help us embrace these changes and ensure at the strategic level that we not only keep pace but make sure we use all the opportunities that digital brings to improve our customers’ lives.” Guv said: “I’m excited to be joining Futures as a Non-Executive Director. For me, this is all about using technology and data to make a meaningful impact in social housing. I’m really looking forward to contributing to that purpose and driving positive change.”

Bodycare faces possible administration with jobs and stores at risk

April Lara
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Bodycare faces possible administration with jobs and stores at risk

UK health and beauty chain Bodycare is reportedly on the brink of administration, putting around 1,500 jobs and numerous high street stores in jeopardy. The retailer, founded in 1970 in Lancashire, stocks major brands including L’Oréal, Nivea, and Elizabeth Arden.

The company has faced financial pressures for several years, worsened by pandemic-related losses. A temporary £7 million debt facility offered short-term relief, but operational costs, inflation, and tax increases have intensified challenges. Bodycare is owned by Baaj Capital, a family office, and has been under advisory review by Interpath to explore potential rescue options.

Retail leadership comes from experienced executives with backgrounds in department stores, yet the business continues to navigate a highly competitive market. Shifts in consumer habits and the broader instability of UK high streets have added to the pressures. Recent industry examples include River Island, which avoided administration through restructuring and store closures.

A sale or investment deal could preserve the chain and protect staff, but without a buyer, store closures and redundancies are likely. The outcome will affect suppliers, commercial landlords, and the wider health and beauty sector.

WBR Group strengthens technical and proposition capabilities with key promotions

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WBR Group strengthens technical and proposition capabilities with key promotions
WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS administration and integrated professional services, has made two strategic promotions. Caitlin Southall has been promoted to director of SSAS transformation and proposition and Mark Plewes steps into the role of head of pensions technical. These appointments reflect WBR Group’s continued investment in deepening its technical expertise and enhancing its client proposition as it strengthens its position in the SSAS and wider tax and pension sectors. Caitlin, who joined WBR Group in 2024 as head of SSAS proposition, will now lead the evolution of WBR Group’s SSAS offering so that it remains at the forefront of the sector in terms of innovation, service quality, and adviser support. Her expanded remit recognises her pivotal role in shaping WBR Group’s proposition strategy and driving client centric product developments. Caitlin will continue to work closely with the wider senior leadership team, to align WBR’s proposition with the evolving needs of advisers, SMEs, and family businesses across the UK. Mark, previously a key member of WBR Group’s technical team, brings over a decade of experience in pensions legislation. As head of pensions technical, he will lead the team and ensure the firm continues to deliver expert guidance across its SSAS and wider tax and pensions services. Mark’s promotion reflects his deep expertise and the critical role he plays in supporting both internal teams and external clients. Prior to WBR, Mark spent over 11 years at Rowanmoor in the pensions team. As part of its ongoing commitment to client education and empowerment, WBR Group has also launched a new Trustee Guide. This comprehensive resource is designed to help SSAS trustees better understand and fulfil their roles, responsibilities and duties. The guide reflects WBR’s belief in the importance of clear, accessible information and will serve as a valuable tool for both new and experienced trustees navigating the complexities of SSAS governance. Martin Tilley, COO of WBR Group, said: “We are delighted to recognise Caitlin and Mark for their exceptional contributions to WBR Group. Their promotions are a testament to the depth of talent within our organisation and our commitment to developing leaders who can drive innovation and deliver outstanding service. The launch of our new Trustee Guide further demonstrates our focus on client support and education, ensuring trustees are equipped with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.”

East Midlands firm secures two freighter maintenance contracts

April Lara
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East Midlands firm secures two freighter maintenance contracts

BCT Aviation Maintenance has secured two new line maintenance contracts at East Midlands Airport, where the company is based.

The contracts cover services for Central Airlines, a Chinese cargo operator running two Boeing 777F freighters into EMA twice weekly, and Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services, which has also been operating a Boeing 777F on the UK–China route over the summer.

BCT Aviation Maintenance will manage all line maintenance for both carriers at the airport. The company has been operating at East Midlands Airport for more than fifteen years and supports a growing number of cargo operations as the airport strengthens its position in UK air freight.

Independent games developer hails “strong start to the year” as profits rise while revenues slide

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Independent games developer hails “strong start to the year” as profits rise while revenues slide

everplay group, formerly Team17, an independent games developer, has hailed “a strong start to the year,” as profits rose while revenues slid.

According to unaudited results for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (H1 2025), group revenues fell 10% to £72.4 million. The business shared that this was a result of the timing of license revenues and new title launches at the astragon division, as well as declines in physically distributed sales and a “very strong” prior year back catalogue performance.

Profit before tax, meanwhile, grew to £14.3m, up from £12.4m in the same period last year.

Four new games launched during the period (in comparison to nine in the same period last year) with four existing games released on additional platforms (H1 2024: four). Revenues from new releases increased 40% in the period.

Three acquisitions of IP and back catalogue publishing rights were completed, at a total cost of less than £8 million, adding additional revenue streams.

Frank Sagnier, interim executive chair of everplay, said: “It has been a strong start to the year. The improved performance of our new releases shows the progress we have made continually enhancing our internal procedures, such as our greenlight process, the quality of our production, and our marketing approach.

“I am delighted by the strategic progress we have made across the business, with the Group already benefitting from new revenue streams from our recent IP and back catalogue acquisitions.

“I would like to thank our people across the Group, led by teams that are truly focused on making great games and apps for our players. Since spending more time in the business in my role as Interim Executive Chair, I have been overwhelmed by the teams’ creativity, skills and knowledge.

“Looking ahead, we have a busy second half to deliver, but the team remains laser-focused on performance and delivering on our strategic priorities to ensure continued long-term growth for the Group and our shareholders.”

Revenue and profit rise at Alumasc

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Revenue and profit rise at Alumasc

Revenue and profit are on the rise at Alumasc, the sustainable building products, systems and solutions group.

According to unaudited results for the year ended 30 June 2025, revenue grew 13% to £113.4m, which the firm said was driven by “sustainability-linked innovation, outstanding customer service, enhanced technical sales capabilities and expanded export focus.”

Meanwhile, underling profit before tax at Alumasc increased by 9% to a record £14.2m.

All three divisions – Building Envelope, Housebuilding Products, and Water Management – delivered record results, despite the persistence of challenging market conditions.

Paul Hooper, chief executive, said: “We are pleased to report the Group has delivered a 9% increase in underlying operating profits and 13% revenue growth despite a highly challenging construction market environment; this is clear evidence of the strength of our business model with its high-quality, innovative product offering, diversity of end markets; and the rising demand for sustainable solutions driven by climate change and evolving building regulations.

“We have continued to develop innovative systems and products, helping us gain valuable market share. Our diversified model gives us strong access to infrastructure, commercial property and UK housebuilders alongside specialist sectors globally, enabling us to capture increasing demand across multiple channels and geographies.

“During the period, we’ve continued to advance our portfolio of environmentally efficient products, whilst also reducing our own environmental footprint, helping us to continue to be an effective champion for sustainable solutions.

“We remain committed to building on our growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions. The Board remains confident in Alumasc’s ability to consistently deliver strong results and navigate market headwinds, positioning us to continue to outperform the sector as we head into FY26.”

Journeo snaps up Crime and Fire Defence Systems Limited

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Journeo snaps up Crime and Fire Defence Systems Limited

Journeo, a provider of information systems and technical services to transport operators, local authorities, and the public transport networks that connect them, has acquired Crime and Fire Defence Systems Limited (CFDS), a specialist infrastructure protection systems integrator in physical and cyber security solutions to the UK Critical National Infrastructure, Defence and Utilities markets.

Journeo’s strategic acquisition of CFDS will add depth and breadth to capabilities in critical ‘cost of failure’ solutions across public transport, passenger information and vital national infrastructure installations, such as those at major railway stations, international airports and nuclear power generation facilities.

The total consideration comprises approximately £10.7m in cash from existing resources, £2m in deferred cash payments repayable in equal amounts after 12 and 24 months following completion and £1m through the issue of new ordinary shares of 6.5p each in the company to the vendors of CFDS with a 24-month minimum holding period.

It is expected that CFDS will have over £1m of cash on completion, resulting in an aggregate cash balance of £9m for the enlarged group post completion of the acquisition.

For the 12 months ended 30 April 2025, CFDS reported audited revenue of £17.33m, PBT of £1.36m and had net assets of £3.93m.

Russ Singleton, CEO, Journeo, said: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of CFDS, a recognised leader in utility Infrastructure Protection solutions. This acquisition aligns with our strategy of taking our core capabilities into adjacent markets and strengthens our offering and broadens our reach. We look forward to working closely with the CFDS team to unlock value and deliver enhanced integrated solutions to a broader client base.”

KPMG Corporate Finance and Squire Patton Boggs advised Crime and Fire Defence Systems Ltd on its investment from Journeo Plc. Sell-side support was also provided by Navig8 Avisory. Giles Taylor, partner at KPMG, said: “We are delighted to have advised the shareholders of Crime and Fire Defence Systems on its investment from Journeo Plc. It’s a great example of a thriving Infrastructure Services M&A market and the quality of Yorkshire private enterprise businesses. This transaction represents an exciting next chapter for Crime and Fire’s development.”

Roberts Bakery to close Ilkeston site putting 38 jobs at risk

April Lara
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Roberts Bakery to close Ilkeston site putting 38 jobs at risk

Roberts Bakery has announced plans to close its Ilkeston manufacturing facility in Derbyshire, affecting 38 employees.

The site, which produces speciality breads and morning goods, was reviewed as part of a broader assessment of the company’s product portfolio, operational footprint, and long-term strategy.

The closure reflects a strategic shift in the company’s operations.

A formal consultation period with staff is set to begin in the coming weeks as the business considers next steps.

Shawbrook Group swoops for specialist lender

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Shawbrook Group swoops for specialist lender

Shawbrook Group is set to acquire ThinCats, a specialist lender.

The acquisition of ThinCats represents a strategic investment in accelerating the growth of Shawbrook’s existing presence in the specialist SME lending market.

ThinCats has an established market position, proven origination capabilities and a technology-enabled business model that is strategically aligned to Shawbrook’s. It will continue to operate as a separate brand with independent teams.

Marcelino Castrillo, CEO at Shawbrook, said: “ThinCats is a leading UK FinTech with an excellent track record for delivering bespoke funding to growth-focused SMEs, whose owners, management teams and sponsors value speed, flexibility and certainty.

“ThinCats’ approach is aligned to our own strategy of leveraging technology, credit excellence and an entrepreneurial culture to deliver a premium proposition to established UK SMEs.

“This acquisition will serve to further scale-up and deepen our presence in the very large and growing SME market. As part of the Shawbrook Group, the ThinCats proposition will benefit from our platform, including distribution channels, investment and funding structure, which will allow us to scale the brand more efficiently and serve even more UK SMEs with highly tailored funding solutions.“

Amany Attia, CEO at ThinCats, said: “Becoming part of Shawbrook represents an exciting step for ThinCats and a strong endorsement of our model, supporting established and growth-focused SMEs. “Underpinned by the significant technology, data and capital resources of the wider Shawbrook Group, ThinCats will continue to offer the high levels of coverage, innovation, service, and ongoing borrower relationships that business owners, professional advisers and financial sponsors have come to expect.“

G F Tomlinson selects Treetops Hospice as charity partner

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G F Tomlinson selects Treetops Hospice as charity partner
Contractor G F Tomlinson has partnered with Treetops Hospice as the company’s chosen charity for 2025. The partnership marks the continuation of a valued relationship, with the contractor having supported the hospice through various initiatives in previous years, following the Local Communities Partnership Programme back in 2021. The programme was launched in conjunction with partners Arc Partnership – which is a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, as well as Perfect Circle to support communities in the Midlands with an impactful community project on a pro bono basis and G F Tomlinson provided ongoing support and construction-based assistance for the end-of-life care charity – as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to social, economic and environmental benefits in the local communities. Treetops Hospice provides compassionate care and support for adults with life-limiting conditions, and their families, across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The charity’s vital services include emotional and therapeutic support, end-of-life care, and wellbeing initiatives. As part of its commitment to supporting this local charity, G F Tomlinson has been an integral contributor to Treetops’ annual Treecycling scheme. This initiative allows households to recycle their real Christmas trees while raising funds for the hospice. For two consecutive years, G F Tomlinson has donated vans, drivers, and volunteers to facilitate the campaign. The collected donations directly support Treetops’ services, and the partnership ensures the continued success of the scheme. In addition to Treecycling, G F Tomlinson has provided pro bono support by assessing and advising on crucial refurbishment projects at the hospice. The team worked closely with Treetops to determine detailed costings for repurposing a spa room into a therapy room and updating their Cheetham Centre. This support has been instrumental in enabling the hospice to apply for funding for these essential upgrades, ensuring a high standard of care and facilities for its beneficiaries. The contractor plans to continue its support of the end-of-life charity over 2025, with a series of planned activities and events to raise its profile and much-needed funds for vital support work in the community. Adrian Grocock, managing director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to announce Treetops Hospice as our chosen charity for 2025. The work they do to support individuals and families during difficult times is truly inspiring and we are proud to continue our partnership.” Natalie Godrich, relationship manager, community engagement at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful to G F Tomlinson for their ongoing support. Their contributions to our Treecycling scheme and expertise in refurbishment projects has been invaluable. Partnerships like this help us provide the best possible care to those who rely on our services.”

Weightmans opens new Nottingham office to grow Midlands operations

April Lara
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Weightmans opens new Nottingham office to grow Midlands operations

Weightmans has opened a new office in Nottingham as part of its strategy to expand its presence across the Midlands. The office will serve as a regional hub alongside the firm’s existing locations in Birmingham and Leicester.

Two corporate partners, Freya Summers and Mallory Coxe, have joined from Wright Hassall to strengthen the firm’s corporate practice in the region. Equity Partner Jane Price will lead the Nottingham office, working with the new partners to develop the team and client offerings.

The Nottingham office is located at Cubo, Standard Court, close to Nottingham Castle. The move is intended to increase the firm’s access to local talent and support growth in priority sectors, including Healthcare, Public Bodies, Owner-Managed Businesses, and Private Clients.

This expansion extends Weightmans’ geographical footprint across the Midlands and reinforces its position as one of the region’s leading law firms, with a focus on corporate services and regional business development.

IMA’s Tasawar Rahim qualifies as an architect

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IMA’s Tasawar Rahim qualifies as an architect
IMA Architects’ Tasawar Rahim has successfully qualified as an architect, marking the culmination of years of dedicated study and professional development. Tasawar has completed his final examinations and is now registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), as a fully qualified architect. His achievement represents the successful completion of a rigorous pathway that combines academic study, practice-based experience and professional assessment. Tasawar first joined IMA in 2022 as a Part 2 architectural assistant, but his journey has seen him study at three institutions. He gained a BA Hons in Architecture at the Kent School of Architecture and Planning, completed his Master of Architecture at the Manchester School of Architecture prior to joining IMA, then undertook Part 3 at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University whilst working at IMA. Tas is the second member of the IMA team to qualify as an architect this year, following director Joe Travers who completed his RIBA qualification in June. Speaking about the achievement, Ben Hall, managing director of IMA Architects, said: “We are incredibly proud of Tas and the dedication he has shown in reaching this important milestone. “Qualifying as an Architect requires a great deal of hard work and persistence, and Tas has balanced this brilliantly with delivering high-quality work for our clients. Following Joe’s qualification earlier this year, it is fantastic to see another member of our team achieve success, and it underlines the strength and ambition of the people who make up IMA.” Tas has played an important role in a number of high-profile industrial and commercial projects during his time at IMA. His work has spanned design development, planning applications, and client liaison, building a strong foundation of experience that he will now carry forward as a qualified architect. Tasawar said: “I am extremely proud to have achieved my Part 3 and become an Architect. It has been a long journey with many challenges along the way, but also a hugely rewarding experience. “Balancing my studies with project work at IMA has given me invaluable skills and confidence, and I am grateful for the support of my colleagues throughout. Qualifying as an Architect has been a personal ambition for many years and I am excited to take this next step in my career.”

Work completes on theatre transformation for Sutton

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Work completes on theatre transformation for Sutton
Work is complete on a new venue for theatre, cinema and live music in Sutton. Sutton Community Academy has been handed the keys to Cornerstone Theatre, following a 15-month programme of work. Ashfield District Council oversaw the project to transform the old theatre into a vibrant events space, with the works undertaken by building contractor Miller Knight. The project was funded through the £6.27m Future High Streets Fund secured by the Council and is central to its ongoing work to revitalise Sutton town centre and to develop the evening economy. Cornerstone will open to the public in March next year with residents and visitors able to enjoy professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights. A number of test performances are being held as the college builds expertise and resources to manage the theatre. Students at the college will also use the facility for their rehearsals and performances. Cllr Matthew Relf, executive lead for growth, regeneration, and local planning, said: “It is fantastic to see another of our regeneration projects reaching completion. Access to great arts and culture is such an important part of a thriving community that is often overlooked, so we are very proud to be able to bring more to Ashfield. “An exciting programme of events is taking shape with something for everyone, from community dance through to large music acts, serious drama through to stand-up comedy. It will be a space welcoming shows from our community through to hosting national touring shows. With great local parking and access to great public transport this is yet another great facility within easy reach of all in Ashfield and surrounding areas. “This is yet another part of our plan to reinvent our town centres as places to not only shop but to live, work, study and play.” Liz Barrett OBE DL, principal of ATTFE College, said: “Everyone is incredibly grateful for the fantastic collaboration that has taken place to create Cornerstone Theatre. We are looking forward to ensuring it rapidly becomes another beating heart within the community of Ashfield for residents and people further afield to enjoy.” Work on transforming the theatre has included new dressing rooms and a green room, toilets – including a changing places room – foyer and box office. The auditorium has been completely refurbished with new flooring, ceiling, acoustic wall treatments and doors. It has a retractable seating system and specialist lighting.

New masterplan to be created for the future development of Swadlincote town centre

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New masterplan to be created for the future development of Swadlincote town centre
A new Masterplan for the future development of Swadlincote town centre is to be created. South Derbyshire District Council has appointed experts BDP to lead the project. Trends such as the growth in online shopping, increase in home working and expansion of leisure activities are all changing the way people use town centres. The Masterplan will cover the whole of the town centre, with a particular focus on the local authority land ownership at the western end of the centre. Within this area there is a concentration of ageing public buildings, in particular Green Bank Leisure Centre and the Civic Offices. BDP, supported by AspinallVerdi, will be undertaking a programme of work during 2025, including seeking the views of members of the public, businesses and property owners during the Autumn. Dr Justin Ives, chief executive of South Derbyshire District Council, said: “Swadlincote Town Centre is an incredibly important part of our District, providing a hub for local residents and visitors alike. We host many community events within the town centre, support local businesses and also celebrate the heritage of the area, with popular landmarks such as Sharpe’s Pottery Museum. “A Town Centre Masterplan will help us to preserve the best of what the town centre already offers, while looking to the future of what it could be, and how we could make meaningful improvements. “Over the last few years, the District Council has undertaken lots of improvements to the town centre, including refurbishing the market square and public toilets, creating the new Midland Road car park, improving shopfronts, and supporting numerous events – now we are keen to hear what the public and businesses would like to see next.” Stephen Marshall, architect director, BDP, added: “This is a really exciting opportunity to help shape the next chapter for Swadlincote’s town centre. We will be considering the town centre as a whole, with a focus on creating a new vision for the ‘Civic Site’, which is currently home to the leisure centre and council offices. “We will help to reimagine this important piece of land, creating new spaces and uses that connect with the high street, welcome the community, and attract new life and investment. We will be working closely with the council, local people, and partners to deliver a design that’s ambitious, achievable, and brings vibrancy and prosperity to the town.”

Stanton Cross to gain 60 new homes after appeal approval

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Stanton Cross to gain 60 new homes after appeal approval

Plans for 60 homes at Stanton Cross, near Wellingborough, have been approved on appeal, allowing the demolition of existing farm buildings to make way for the development.

The project forms part of a wider 3,650-home scheme in the area. North Northamptonshire Council’s planning committee initially rejected the proposal in March 2024, citing concerns over infrastructure and affordable housing provision, despite planning officers recommending approval.

The government’s Planning Inspectorate overturned the committee’s decision, ruling that the project could proceed. The developer, Grace Homes, will provide financial contributions under a section 106 agreement, covering education, libraries, sports facilities, and local healthcare services.

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