Funding secured for £24m Build to Rent scheme in Leicester
United Trust Bank (UTB) is providing £15.3m of funding to growing Build to Rent developer Oblix Living to complete their conversion of Saxon House in central Leicester.
Founded in 2020 by Rishi Passi and Anthony James, Oblix Living is a specialist developer, investor and operator of residential rental assets in strategically selected locations across the UK. It develops mid-sized schemes in urban areas where there is demand for well serviced rental accommodation. Its developments are service led, technology enabled and focus on young professionals seeking flexibility, security and amenities fit for modern day living.
Saxon House was built in 1993 and occupied by HMRC until 2021. It was acquired by Oblix Living in 2022 with plans to convert the 89,000 square foot, six storey former office building into ‘The Saxons’, comprising 100, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with a gym, workspace, residents lounge and 28 resident car parking spaces.
Specialist lender, United Trust Bank, is providing the £15.3m of funding required to complete the scheme which has an estimated GDV of £24m. This is the second Oblix Living development supported by UTB which also provided £11m towards the developer’s £17.2m, 95 apartment scheme at Iron Yard in Sheffield city centre, which is now complete and leasing up.
Rishi Passi, Chief Executive Officer of Oblix Living, said: “We’re pleased to be working with UTB again to deliver another high quality build to rent development to meet the growing demand from young professionals for professionally managed, well designed, amentised buildings throughout the UK.
“The team at UTB have been a pleasure to work with. Their responsiveness and willingness to go above and beyond have been invaluable in ensuring that we have the financial resources needed to conitue our growth trajectory.”
Hardeep Thandi, Director – Property Development, United Trust Bank, said: “The Build to Rent sector is booming and we are delighted to be supporting another exciting scheme by Oblix Living which will bring much needed high specification rental accommodation to one of the UK’s fastest growing cities.
“Rishi, Anthony and the Oblix Living team have a huge amount of collective experience in residential and commercial development, lending and investment and at UTB we enjoy working with developers who are committed to building outstanding homes and are meticulous in their planning and delivery. Oblix Living are exactly that and I look forward to a long and fruitful partnership extending for many years to come.”
Nottingham firm expands global operations
Nottingham-headquartered compliance software company, Ideagen, has boosted its global footprint with a £2.5m investment in two new state-of-the-art facilities in India and Malaysia.
The two offices officially opened in Kuala Lumpur and Hyderabad last week with Ideagen CEO, Ben Dorks, joining both celebrations with local teams.
Speaking about the investment, Ben said: “Our operations in both Malaysia and India play an important role in helping to support the safe hands and quiet voices that protect the world.
“This investment in our people supports the continued development of our software solutions and growth plans, providing employees with a first-class working environment. It’s important our people have the best facilities with the best equipment and tools available to them.”
Ling Poh Teng, head of development and operations for Ideagen in Malaysia, echoed Ben’s comments at the Kuala Lumpur opening: “It’s a fantastic modern office set-up for our growing team and will help us attract the best talent while positioning us well for the future. Our team will love working here!”
The Hyderabad office provides Ideagen with a second location in the country, already having an established base in Odisha.
Ashish Mohanty, head of Ideagen’s India operation, said: “It’s an exciting time for the team to move into these offices. This investment demonstrates Ideagen’s commitment to growth in India, while also making the employees here feel supported and valued. It will serve us very well as we grow.”
Work completes on Grade II listed buildings at Ruddington museum
Refurbishment works have completed on the Framework Knitters Museum’s Grade II listed cottage and frameshop buildings.
The £62,295 project included external works, which were carried out on the buildings, and repairs to the roofs and chimneys, replacing the gutters, and repointing the walls, as well as insulation to the roofs and walls to improve the energy efficiency and provide much-needed protection from weather conditions.
The funds for the work, which was undertaken by Stevenson Bros, were awarded through the Arts Council of England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND).
MEND is an open-access capital fund, which is designed to help museums and local authorities to undertake infrastructure and urgent maintenance that are beyond the scope of day-to-day maintenance budgets.
Sarah Godfrey, creative and commercial manager of the museum, said: “We’re delighted that work has completed on our cottage and frameshop buildings, it’s important to keep them alive and thanks to generous funding from the Arts Council we were able to carry out much-needed repairs.
“The restoration, which has also made the buildings more environmentally sustainable, will help to ensure that a wide range of people can continue to access the museum, and to celebrate our historical textile heritage, for many years to come.”
Peter Knott, Midlands area director for Arts Council England, said: “The Framework Knitters Museum is a place of considerable communal and historic value, which tells the fascinating 400-year history of framework knitting.
“It is much loved by its local community and this work will help to secure the long-term survival of the buildings. We’re proud to have supported the project through our Museum Estates and Development Fund (MEND).”
East Midlands businesses lose confidence in May
Business confidence in the East Midlands fell 24 points during May to 17%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Companies in the region reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 31 points at 15%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down 18 points to 18% this gives a headline confidence reading of 17%.
East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as investing in their team (37%), devolving their offer (28%) and entering new markets (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 10% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, down 18 points on last month.
Overall UK business confidence dropped five points to 28% in May. Despite the dip, every UK nation and region report a positive confidence reading.
As the country celebrated the Coronation, London reported the highest levels of business confidence at 43% (down four points on last month), followed by the North East at 35% (down six points month-on-month). The West Midlands, South East and South West, also reported high readings in May, all at 30%.
Firms remain optimistic about their own trading prospects, with a net balance of 34% expecting business activity to increase over the next 12 months, down just five points on last month.
Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Business confidence in the East Midlands has dipped this month, following a similar trend seen across the other regions of the UK. However, confidence remains firmly in the positive territory and businesses continue to plan investments in their teams to drive growth.
“We will remain by the side of the region’s firms, to help them fund training opportunities and bring in the skills they need to deliver on their ambitions.”
Confidence among manufacturers increased to a one-year high of 40% (up from 29%), while retail registered a more modest two point rise to 26%, and construction remained robust at 34% despite its monthly nine point decline. Services confidence, however, fell back to 26% from 36%, almost erasing last month’s rise. Overall, confidence across the broad sectors remains above levels at the start of the year.
Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “As the economic environment remains challenging, compounded by stubborn inflation and higher wage pressures, business confidence has dipped slightly this month as firms feel cautious about the wider economy and their own trading prospects.
“However, while firms’ trading prospects and economic optimism both eased back, they still remain in positive territory as the UK has avoided an outright contraction in GDP – indicating a certain amount of underlying resilience in the economy.”
Stone Plus calls in the administrators
Jo Hammond and Gareth Rusling of Begbies Traynor have been appointed joint administrators of Stone Plus UK Limited.
Based in Mawsley, Kettering, the business supplies builders merchants and landscape centres with a range of natural stone, porcelain and concrete landscaping product, and also has distribution rights for Oakdale Greenscaping and McMonagle Stone for the south of England.
The company experienced financial difficulties due to shipping problems and cashflow pressure which led to significant debts accruing and made the business unviable. The director instructed Begbies Traynor to review the company’s financial position and it was subsequently placed into administration.
Stone Plus UK had three employees, all of whom have been made redundant.
Eddisons has been appointed to complete a marketing campaign for the business and its assets, and is currently evaluating offers prior to concluding a sale.
200 Degrees chooses West Bridgford for 20th shop
Speciality coffee roaster 200 Degrees has picked West Bridgford for the location of its 20th shop.
In a first for 200 degrees, the new shop features a roof terrace, making this the perfect location for summer drinks. Coffee lovers will be able to enjoy their favourite cup of hot – or iced – coffee overlooking views of the avenue.
This will be 200 Degrees’ fourth venue in its home city of Nottingham, following the success of its Flying Horse Walk, Carrington Street and Milton Street shops.
Rob Darby, CEO at 200 Degrees, said: “Nottingham is where it all began for 200 Degrees and the success of our three city shops – particularly Milton Street which opened last summer – has been phenomenal.
“We’ve had our sights set on West Bridgford for a long time, as it’s where our co-founder Tom and I have made our home. It’s also the location of our Meadow Lane Roast House, which provides all the coffee we need for our 20-shop estate, eight barista schools, wholesale partners and online coffee customers.
“West Bridgford is a thriving location, occupied by other popular brands and valued wholesale customers such as Birds Bakery and Forde’s, and it’s an exciting opportunity to join the buzzing food and drink scene there.
“We’ve often been asked when we’d be setting up shop in West Bridgford, so we’re looking forward to serving some of our long-time 200 Degrees supporters a little closer to home.”
It’s been a busy month for the independent coffee roaster already, as its 19th shop in Chester opened on Saturday 27 May, and the team are keen to crack on with the next project.
Sustainability is not such a modern concept
As the chase for net zero gathers momentum SMEs are being increasingly challenged to not just create plans for sustainability but to achieve them.
According to some reports, 50% of businesses have ambitions to achieve net zero by 2050 but only 11% believe they have the right strategy to get them there.
The focus on the environment may seem like a relatively recent movement but for some it has been a philosophy for well over a century.
Known as Lincolnshire’s favourite coffee roaster, Stokes Tea & Coffee is an award-winning family business with more than 120 years of experience in sourcing, roasting, blending and supplying the freshest coffees, finest teas, equipment, servicing and barista training. The company also runs multiple destination cafés and hospitality spaces.
Stokes has built a reputation amongst its peers for leading the way in sustainable practices. This is in part, testament to some solid habits which are as alive today as they were when the company began back in 1902. The mantras of ‘make do and mend’ and ‘waste not want not’ together with an uncompromising commitment to world-class levels of quality, are not just standing the test of time, they’ve been instrumental for decades in delivering effective ethical and eco practices.
Emma Olivier Townrow, Business Development Manager at Stokes, is helping to co-ordinate the sustainable efforts, she describes the journey so far.
“Stokes has never been just about profit. The family has always given back to its communities, operated responsibly, ethically and sustainably. These are not just snappy sound bites. I can honestly say that these behaviours and values are quite literally built into the DNA of the company. Minimising waste, being efficient and valuing resources is the Stokes philosophy.
“The company has just got on with it for decades and never been interested in virtue signalling or labelling its efforts when it comes to environmental or community activities. This has presented a very different challenge, as unlike many other businesses where sustainability initiatives are being developed to meet the requirements of things like B Corp certification, Stokes has so much in place already that is just business as usual.
“The behaviours and practices require retrospective ‘labelling’ as it were, rather than having to start something new, it’s been a case of finding and formalising what’s already in place. I’ve been working on the B Corp application to help Stokes get formal recognition and certification for the amazing work it’s been doing.
“There’s a vast amount already in place including investment in new heating systems and eco-friendly coffee roasters that significantly cut down on energy usage and emissions and a clear focus on minimising waste through upcycling, recycling and re-purposing. Stokes is close to its supplier base at home and abroad to ensure every penny spent benefits communities near and far. The company demonstrates that a team focus and strong principles can make huge headway when it comes to the sustainability journey.”
Emma’s Top Tips for Achieving Net Zero Targets:
1. Don’t be overwhelmed by the prospect of driving sustainable agendas, the UN targets all ultimately lead to overall benefits for businesses including efficiency, savings and greater business/community engagement.
2. Start small, for example by finding 3 ways to reduce single-use plastic, switch to greener suppliers or support a community project to develop a fresh perspective and approach towards tangible and sustainable business practices. Once you start looking, you’ll be surprised by how many ways you’ll find to reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Get your team onboard, share your ambitions and seek ideas from your people, better still create incentives or rewards for innovative ideas. Nothing breeds success like success, so find the wins and celebrate them.
4. Rethink how you dispose of your waste products – can they be reduced, reused or recycled?
5. Don’t be nervous about sharing your aims and ambitions with your customers, data shows consumers appreciate and value sustainable businesses. So, share your aspirations and seek collective solutions.
Find out more at: www.stokescoffee.com
Major milestone for Matthew Montague Architects
2023 marks the 25th anniversary of Matthew Montague Architects (MMA), which has provided the region a wealth of buildings in sectors ranging from sport to leisure, education, commercial, civic and residential.
The business has recently been working extensively with the University of Derby on its vision of how the University intends to develop its city centre footprint and improve connectivity between its sites.
The City Masterplan developed by the architects’ firm focuses on the development of the area around One Friar Gate Square, Ford Street, Bridge Street, Agard Street and Nuns Street, in Derby.
Matthew Montague said: “It has been a fantastic opportunity to be involved with the masterplan. It is ambitious, forward thinking and will help shape the future development of the University and the city, bringing new opportunities for students and businesses. It’s something we are really proud of.”
Daniel Evans, lead architect of the masterplan, added: “The concept for design focuses on simplicity, vibrancy, safety and sustainability. It draws on Derby’s industrial heritage and uses it to create a modern environment, keeping spaces open day and night.”
Being Derby born and bred and with his father being a founding member of Derby Civic Society, Derby’s heritage is very important to Matthew and over the years many heritage and restoration projects have given the practice a respected reputation for protecting and enhancing buildings that have contributed to Derby’s historic core.
The practice has designed and sympathetically restored many shops fronts across the city, more than 20 on The Wardwick and several others on Green Lane – many of these winning civic society awards.
MMA has been working with Derby’s oldest charity, The Liversage Trust, for many years. The Liversage Trust was established by Robert Liversage, a Derby business man in 1529. The Trust is an Almhouses Charity offering accommodation, care and grants to Derby residents in need. It has a varied, well managed, professional property portfolio comprising 160 Almhouses, a 40 bed care home and a variety of commercial units and residential properties across the city.
The portfolio has been managed, conserved and developed by the architect’s practice for over four decades. Initially by Montague Architects and subsequently by Matthew Montague Architects.
Matthew said: “The Liversage Trust has been part of Derby’s heritage for many years. Its portfolio of properties was managed and developed by Montague Architect’s for many years until we merged with them in 2017.
“We currently have projects to refurbish the London Road Almhouses and a full renovation of the redundant workshops on Alice Street to create new offices and workshops for the Trust’s staff. The refurbishment works to the Almhouses will futureproof them for the next 100 years, it’s a pleasure to be a part of it.”
The history of MMA is also interwoven with Derby County Football Club. Matthew’s support extends beyond the team’s performance on the pitch to being heavily involved in the design of the Academy facilities and a considerable amount of work around Pride Park Stadium including the iconic Clough Taylor memorial.
Repton School is another longstanding client of MMA, with numerous projects going back to the refurbishment of the 400 Hall Theatre in 2011. More recently a new dining hall was constructed at Foremarke Hall; Repton Preparatory School.
Matthew said: “This is one of my favourite projects that the practice has completed. The design is by my colleague Daniel Evans; it’s great design, a modern, high-quality project, it flows and sits seamlessly in its wonderfully historic setting. There is a great sense of satisfaction seeing a building completed as it was originally conceived.”
2023 is looking to be a good year for the practice as it continues to work with the University on their vision within the city. Meanwhile, AG Homes are set to build 33 apartments on Mansfield Road, a scheme designed by MMA, and there are exciting projects with Repton School, several commercial developments and houses.
Matthew added: “We are actually working on a project to refurbish Lonsdale House, which is fantastic as this was my first commercial job back in 1998, so 25 years later we are doing it all again!”
Timms Solicitors makes trio of key appointments
Timms Solicitors have made three key appointments across the firm to support its on-going growth.
Marketing manager Sharon Jeffery and finance and systems manager Ali Jodiyawalla have both been promoted to senior associate. Wills and probate solicitor Matt Kelly has also been promoted to associate after completing Timms’ bespoke Pathways career development programme.
Managing partner Fiona Moffat explained: “Everyone at Timms has a personalised career development plan and we are fully committed to supporting individual’s aspirations and goals.
“These promotions are all very much deserved. The marketing, IT and finance functions are obviously crucial in the sustained growth of the firm across our high street offices in Derby, Burton, Swadlincote and Ashby and Sharon and Ali’s promotions reflect the value that we place on their work and input into the business.
“Matt has successfully completed our Pathway to Associate programme and is contributing a great deal to the expanding wills and probate team.”
Sharon Jeffery, a CIM Marketing Professional, joined Timms in March 2014 following a career within the automotive and professional services sectors.
Responsible for creating and implementing the firm’s marketing and business strategy, Sharon leads a team who manage all internal and external communications, digital marketing, branding, PR and statistical analysis.
Ali Jodiyawalla joined Timms in early 2016 having graduated with a BA Hons in Accounting and spending six years at a reputable firm as head of finance.
In addition to managing the finance and IT department, Ali is also the compliance officer for finance and administrator and is a member of The Institute of Legal Finance and Management (ILFM).
Responsibilities of these roles include, the preparation and implementation of business plans, forecasts, KPI’s, financial reports and compliance with the SRA’s accounts rules.
In addition to accounts and finance, Ali is responsible for the maintenance and development of the IT systems, including network, servers, hardware and applications.
Matt joined Timms in March 2016 and is based at the Swadlincote and Burton offices. He qualified as a solicitor in 2007 and has many years of experience in private client work.
Matt is committed to expanding his wills & probate knowledge and experience and is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). Additionally, Matt is also a fully accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE).
Midlands businesses to delay investment due to corporation tax rise
The rise in corporation tax will force many Midlands companies to delay business investment, according to new research from accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO LLP.
Half of Midlands businesses (50%) say they will pause future investment, after the headline rate of corporation tax rose to 25% at the beginning of April 2023, up from 19% in the 2022-23 tax year.
BDO’s bi-monthly Economic Engine survey of more than 500 mid-market businesses has revealed that 33% of respondents will either have to make redundancies or take on fewer people, with the recent rise in corporation tax leading to a reduction in profits paid out to shareholders for 40% of businesses. Worryingly, nearly half (42%) said the uplift in corporation tax had prompted them to consider leaving the UK.
While many businesses had hoped the Chancellor would publish a roadmap at the Spring Budget setting out a phased reduction in corporation tax rates, no such announcement was forthcoming. The much-debated move follows years of tax-cutting by the Conservatives, from a high of 28% in 2011 to 19% in 2017. In his March 2021 Budget, then Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced plans to increase the headline rate in a bid to aid the country’s financial recovery post-pandemic.
Claire Hudson, tax partner at BDO LLP in the Midlands, said: “Pre-Budget, many Midlands businesses made their feelings clear that they would like to see a reversal of the rise in corporation tax. The Government has so far stood firm, but the Chancellor’s recent remarks on business taxes being too high suggests he might reconsider this position at the next Budget.
“Our survey indicates that the recent rise in the headline corporation tax rate will dampen current business investment plans and potentially hamper growth in the region as businesses pull back on spending.
“It has also highlighted a high degree of concern about the international competitiveness of the UK’s corporate tax regime. However, the new ‘full expensing’ capital allowances regime has been positively welcomed, suggesting the knock-on effect of the tax hike may only be short-term.”
According to Economic Engine survey, 68% of Midlands businesses say that the new capital allowances rules, which give businesses a 25% subsidy to buy new plant and machinery, would lead them to invest more in equipment.
Hudson added: “While it’s encouraging to see businesses planning to capitalise on the rule changes, there will be a swathe of service-led companies that will get little benefit from the new regime. Ensuring that service sector businesses are also incentivised to invest in growth, with subsidies being delivered in other ways, will be key to long-term, sustainable growth across the board.”
Boost morale at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023
Showcasing the region’s property and construction industry, and offering a prime opportunity for networking, the prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards will return on Thursday 28 September, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground.
Nominations for the event are open, and now is the perfect time to make your submissions, ahead of the deadline (Thursday 31 August).
With the economy now recovering after lockdown, and following a successful event held last year, we believe it is more important than ever to celebrate the robustness of the property industry in our region. Take this ideal opportunity to shine a light on teams, reward their hard work, and boost morale.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
To be held at:
Award categories include:
- Most active estate agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner
Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 28 September 2023 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place Marketing at Leicester City Council, our keynote speaker. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
Nottingham’s universities and City Council join forces for study into the region’s creative and digital industries
Nottingham Trent University, University of Nottingham and Nottingham City Council are inviting Nottingham’s creative and digital businesses to contribute to an in-depth study of the sector which has seen unprecedented growth over the past few years.
This joint initiative aims to gain valuable insights into what is enabling growth in the City’s Creative and Digital Industries and what additional support could be provided by the City Council, the universities and economic development programmes to further accelerate the sector’s growth.
The project will build on previous research undertaken by NTU, and an online survey has been developed to gather data from individuals and organizations involved in Nottingham’s creative and digital industries.
Participation in the study is open to all individuals and organisations involved in creative, digital, and cultural businesses in Nottingham. Those able to contribute are encouraged to complete the online survey.
Jeremy Hague, director of Knowledge Exchange at Nottingham Trent University, said: “This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to delve into the heart of Nottingham’s creative and digital industries. By combining our efforts and expertise, we can gain invaluable insights that will drive innovation, inform policymaking, and fuel the continued growth of this thriving sector.”
Helen Kennedy, professor of Creative and Cultural Industries at the University of Nottingham, said: “With our ERDF-funded Live, Experiential and Digital Diversification: Nottingham (LEADD:NG) collaboration coming to an end, this is a significant opportunity to develop a fine-grained understanding of our local creative and digital sector.
“The knowledge we gain from this research will inform how we advocate for further investment in our region and how we can best deploy the world leading research expertise within our university communities.”
Robert Dixon, head of Business Growth at Nottingham City Council, said: “The creative and digital sector is an important and fast-growing part of the wider Nottingham economy. This survey, carried out in partnership with both universities, will provide us with a valuable insight into the needs of these businesses to help us tailor future targeted support.”
Results from the study will be launched in Autumn 2023.
Leicester city centre trading estate snapped up in double deal
A logistics site in Leicester city centre has been snapped up as part of a double-deal.
Warwickshire-based The Wigley Group has agreed to purchase Bermuda Park on Buckingham Close, Nuneaton, and a city centre trading estate on Craven Street, Leicester, at a total price of £7.95 million.
The two fully-let sites offer a combined 13 units, with nine units providing 53,256 sq ft of internal warehouse/industrial space at Bermuda Park, and four units at Craven Street providing a total of 47,343 sq ft of space.
They are the first sites purchased through an exciting new collaboration between The Wigley Group and Reflex Property Finance – sister company of South East-based developer Galliard Homes.
The new partnership, called Waterloo Capital Ltd, will create a new investment fund which will channel capital into shorter term asset management projects across the Midlands region, principally focusing on industrial property.
The Wigley Group was formed in 1964 and is a specialist in the industrial sector with a significant portfolio of property and landholdings.
Reflex Property Finance was founded by Stephen Conway – founder of Galliard Homes – and Jonathan Morgan – former Galliard director – and is a specialist finance provider for development sites and commercial property.
James Davies, Chief Executive Officer at The Wigley Group, said: “We are thrilled to agree terms on these two sites as part of an exciting new agreement with Reflex Property Finance, which will help to drive fresh investment into the region.
“This is a perfect partnership which combines our own expertise in the logistics sector and strong local knowledge of the region, complemented by a funding partner in Reflex who possess a deep understanding of development and investment, due to its experienced founders having grown Galliard Homes into one of the UK’s most successful private residential developers.
“Working with our experienced Asset Management team, we look forward to enhancing the offering at Bermuda Park and Craven Street to meet the growing demand for well-connected industrial and warehouse space in the heartland of industry, the Midlands.”
Jonathan Morgan said: “We are delighted to support The Wigley Group with this strategic investment and look forward to growing the relationship with such an experienced, reputable and well capitalised partner.”
Up to 65 homes coming to Rearsby site after planning permission agreed
Up to 65 homes – including 26 at affordable prices – could soon be built at a site near a Leicestershire village after a property consultancy secured outline planning permission.
The homes, located south of Gaddesby Lane near Rearsby, were given the green light by Charnwood Borough Council’s planning committee after Fisher German submitted the planning application on behalf of land promoters Clarendon Land & Development.
The 8.3-acre site, which is part of Charnwood Borough Council’s emerging Local Plan, will have an allocation of 40 per cent affordable homes built to help people get onto the property ladder – more than the council’s requirement.
The development will also feature common green space for residents to enjoy, including a village green, a natural play area, and a circular pedestrian and cycle route connecting them together.
Biodiversity net gain will be ensured through the planting of a 1.5-acre orchard and wildflower meadow to the south east of the site, which can be accessed via a cycle link to the main site and Gaddesby Lane.
Further benefits under Section 106 agreements include contributions to youth activities, sporting facilities, and allotments at Rearsby.
Fisher German’s development agency team will now look to sell the land to a housing developer so that the new homes can be built, subject to reserved matters being approved.
Victoria Heath, planner at Fisher German, said: “We are delighted that these new homes will soon be coming to Rearsby.
“Fisher German has worked on this application for a number of years, with our experts advising the landowner on promoting the site for development in Charnwood’s emerging Local Plan, working with land promoters Clarendon Land & Development to prepare the site, and carrying out pre-application discussions to ensure a sensitive scheme was produced.
“Now that outline planning permission has been granted, we are looking forward to selling the site to developers to make these homes a reality.
“The development will bring much-needed houses to the area, and with 40 per cent being affordable, it means there is an excellent opportunity for those who cannot afford to buy at market rates to be able to settle down in the village.
“We look forward to the land being sold and reserved matters being agreed so work can begin on building the new houses.”
Ross Jackson, land director at Clarendon Land and Development, added: “We are delighted to have reached this milestone in the delivery of much-needed new homes to Leicestershire.
“In conjunction with the team at Fisher German, we have promoted the site through the emerging Local Plan as a proposed housing allocation, working with officers to demonstrate the deliverability and benefits of a scheme in this location – a good example of how the plan led system should and can work.
“We now look forward to sourcing a development partner to deliver this fantastic scheme.”
Legal supplier to the wedding trade scoops international award
Nottingham-based business Stanford Gould Online has won an award for its professional services to the wedding industry.
The seventh Global Wedding Awards, managed by publishing group AI Media, spans the entirety of the wedding sector, from venues to cake designers, organisers, digital planning software and beyond. The awards recognise businesses who demonstrate extensive expertise, dedication to customer service and client satisfaction with an ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation.
Stanford Gould Online, a division of Stanford Gould Group, is now into its fifth year of trading. It supports wedding suppliers with their legal and contractual matters and provides an affordable, ‘off the shelf’ template solution, tailored to different suppliers in the wedding industry. After recognising a need for businesses in this under-represented industry, director and former practising solicitor Heather Stanford, set up Stanford Gould Online to make it easy for wedding suppliers to protect themselves with legally robust terms and conditions.
Stanford said: “The business pre-dates COVID, but we’re certainly one of the lucky businesses that was overwhelmed with demand for support throughout the pandemic, as the wedding industry was turned on its head. Many suppliers were unprepared for such unprecedented circumstances and their legal terms didn’t protect them. We helped many businesses to navigate this nightmarish period and ultimately remain operational at the end of it.”
Affectionately known as the ‘Legal Fairy Godmother’ by her clients and network, the business owner formally adopted the label as part of her branding by registering the trademark in 2022.
“Legal matters and terminology can be overwhelming and difficult to make sense of, for creative businesses in particular. So many of my clients feel as though I have rescued them from that stress and confusion and a potential minefield of contractual problems.”
Her advice to players in the wedding industry is simple: “Protect yourself from the outset with clear, legally sound terms and cover all eventualities and set out exactly how you work and what clients can expect. It’s the only way to protect yourself and limit the damage in unforeseen circumstances, just like we’ve experienced over the last three years.”
Space Park Leicester ESA BIC UK start-up nominated for prestigious Earthshot Prize
Kita, the carbon insurance specialist for the climate crisis, has been nominated for a prestigious Earthshot prize in the Fix Our Climate category.
This recognition comes shortly after the company became the third to join the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) programme at Space Park Leicester.
The Earthshot prize, launched by Prince William in 2020, aims to incentivise and accelerate solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges. The Fix Our Climate category specifically seeks solutions that address the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero carbon by 2050.
Kita’s nomination for this prestigious award is a testament to its outstanding efforts to help companies reach net zero emissions. Its insurance protects buyers of forward-purchased carbon removal credits against under-delivery. This reduces the risk of missing net-zero targets, investment milestones, and project goals.
Kita uses sophisticated remote monitoring technologies to enable this multi-year insurance product to be provided cost effectively, while at the same time providing an additional layer of transparency to their clients.
Dr Paul Young, chief technical officer at Kita, said: “We are honoured to be nominated for an Earthshot prize and proud to be part of the ESA BIC programme at Space Park Leicester. This recognition and support will help us accelerate our mission to create a more sustainable future for our planet.”
Kita has been nominated for the Fix Our Climate category by Purpose Driven Innovation Ecosystem (PDIE Group), an organisation that is building a global ecosystem for game changers who are co-creating a better tomorrow. PDIE Group are one of the top Earthshot Prize nominators.
William Wells, director of ESA BIC UK at Leicester, expressed his excitement at Kita’s nomination, saying: “We are thrilled to have Kita as part of our ESA BIC programme and to see their innovative solutions recognised on a global scale. This nomination is a testament to the impact that space technology can have in tackling some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.”
Three work colleagues take on non-stop 55-mile Derbyshire Heritage Way walk for lifesaving charity
Three work colleagues are challenging themselves to the max by taking on a non-stop 55-mile heritage walk through Derbyshire to raise money for St John Ambulance.
Married couple Claire and Tim Hollingshurst and their work colleague Rich Trevatt, who all work at science company Lubrizol’s UK headquarters in Hazelwood, will be walking all 55 miles of the Derwent Valley Heritage Way next month, without stopping.
The trio are going the distance in aid of St John Ambulance, named by Lubrizol as its UK-wide charity earlier this year.
Claire said: “I think everyone knows what amazing work St John Ambulance does in helping train people in first aid so they have the skills to save a life. Tim and I have done various challenges over the years but I do think this is our most daunting one yet!”
The trio will embark on their epic walk on June 3 at the Heritage Way’s starting point: Ladybower Reservoir.
Set up in 2002 by the Derwent Valley Trust, the trail follows the river Derwent all the way to its mouth in the heritage inland port of Shardlow. Along the way, Claire, Tim and Rich’s walk will take them through the Chatsworth estate, Matlock Bath, Darley Dale and Derby itself, which they are likely to be walking through as night falls.
Derek Latham, chair of the Derwent Valley Trust, said this was the first attempt of which he had heard, of people taking on the whole 55-mile route non-stop.
“I would like to think this is the first of many, and that Claire, Tim and Rich are setting an example for the future!” he said.
Claire and Tim are no stranger to sporting challenges having previously each run and jogged 1,000 miles in a year in aid of Mind, as well as completing 10,000 sit-ups and press-ups in a year, plus taking on notoriously tough challenges like the Yorkshire Three Peaks and Tough Mudder events. The pair ran, walked and cycled the equivalent distance between John O’Groats and Lands End, also for Mind.
Tim has also walked the West Highlands Way in the past while outdoors-lover Rich has traversed Hadrian’s wall.
But all three said despite these previous experiences they had never taken on so great a challenge as undertaking the 55-mile walk Heritage Way all in one go.
Tim said: “We did have to make it quite challenging for ourselves! It will be hard to carry our food and make sure that we have got enough energy to do it. Then there will be the pain of blisters to contend with.”
Claire and Tim are well acquainted with one section of the Heritage Way, having signed up as rangers last year when the Derwent Valley Trust appealed for volunteers to help maintain the route, which takes in much of Derbyshire’s industrial past. This involves them regularly walking section six of the walk, between Whatstandwell and Belper, making sure it is clear of brambles and signposts are clearly visible so that other walkers can enjoy the route.
Rich said: “I love history and what we’ll be following is that historical industry of Derbyshire: all the mills and mill towns. It will be a fascinating experience.”
So far the intrepid trio have raised more than £500 in sponsorship ahead of their epic walk. To donate, see www.justgiving.com/page/hollingshurst-heritage-way-st-john-ambulance
Claire said: “Charitable fundraising and volunteering are very important to us at Lubrizol so while I’m nervous about doing the Heritage Way, I’m proud to be doing our bit for St John Ambulance. We’ll be very visible as we’ll have the St John Ambulance colours flying behind us on ribbons and balloons! So if you see us tramping along over the weekend of June 3 and 4, feel free to give us a wave or even join us for a bit!”
Charlotte Guiver, director of fundraising at St John Ambulance, said: “We’re so grateful for the incredible fundraising efforts of the Lubrizol team. The money they have raised will make it possible for our volunteers to continue their lifesaving work in communities across the country.
“We are all wishing the team luck on their epic hike – and St John will be cheering them on every step of the way.”
Lubrizol’s support for St John Ambulance comes after its previous two years’ support for Mind, during which time employees raised a phenomenal £28,282 through completing a variety of challenges.
Change is coming: adapting to the new era of hybrid work in the UK
Change is coming, and it’s poised to redefine the work culture in the United Kingdom. As we embrace a post-pandemic world, businesses are finding themselves at the cusp of a seismic shift – the transition towards a hybrid work model. This blend of remote and on-site work arrangements offers unprecedented flexibility and adaptability. But how do we navigate this new terrain successfully? This article aims to guide UK businesses through the opportunities and challenges presented by hybrid work, providing essential insights to ensure a smooth and beneficial transition.
Decoding the Benefits of Hybrid Work for UK Businesses
As the hybrid work model blends remote and on-site work, it offers a unique combination of benefits. First, the flexibility can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity. Many employees value the ability to balance work commitments with personal responsibilities, and studies show that happy employees are more productive. Second, it reduces overhead costs, as less office space and resources are needed. Additionally, businesses aren’t confined to local talent – the hybrid model opens the door to a wider talent pool across the nation, or even globally.
Preparing Your Business for the Transition to Hybrid Work
Transitioning to a hybrid work model requires careful preparation. Start by analysing your business processes and determining which tasks can be performed remotely. Next, communicate clearly with your employees – their insights and concerns are crucial to designing a work model that suits everyone’s needs. Ensure they understand the rationale, the benefits, and the changes that the transition will entail. Also, the establishment of new policies will be necessary to address issues such as data security, employee availability, and performance measurement in the hybrid work context.
Key Considerations in Designing a Hybrid Work Model
Designing a hybrid work model requires strategic thinking. Key considerations include: Which roles are best suited for remote work, and which need in-office presence? How will collaboration and communication be facilitated between on-site and remote employees? How can a fair system be created to measure performance, irrespective of work location? Besides these, it’s crucial to maintain an inclusive work culture where every employee feels valued and integrated, regardless of their work arrangement. These considerations should form the backbone of your hybrid work strategy, ensuring that the model is customised to your business’s unique needs and challenges.
Incorporating Technology for Efficient Hybrid Work Practices
In the new age of hybrid work, technology is the cornerstone of efficiency. It’s important to equip your business with tools that facilitate communication, project management, and file sharing. Online platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams allow real-time collaboration and communication. Project management tools like Asana or Trello can help in task allocation and progress tracking. One often overlooked, but crucial aspect of remote work, is file management. Tools such as PDF compressor tools can be immensely beneficial. When sharing large documents or extensive reports, these tools compress PDF files without compromising their quality, making them easier to share and store. This ensures efficient use of storage space and bandwidth, while maintaining the integrity of your data.
Investing in these technologies doesn’t just streamline hybrid work – it empowers your employees to perform their best, irrespective of their location. Remember, the goal is to create a cohesive digital workspace that mirrors the efficiency and collaboration of an office environment.
How to Address Potential Challenges in Hybrid Working
While hybrid work offers several benefits, it also presents unique challenges. Here’s how you can address them:
- Communication and Collaboration: In a hybrid model, maintaining clear and efficient communication can be a challenge. To address this, implement reliable digital communication tools and establish clear communication protocols.
- Isolation and Engagement: Remote employees might feel disconnected or less engaged. Regular virtual meetings, social activities, and digital recognition can help foster a sense of belonging and maintain engagement levels.
- Performance Measurement: Traditional methods of performance measurement may not work in a hybrid model. Develop clear, objective metrics for evaluating performance, focused more on results than physical presence.
- Data Security: With work happening beyond the office, maintaining data security becomes crucial. Invest in secure virtual private networks (VPNs), multi-factor authentication, and regular cybersecurity training for employees.
Grantham builder must pay £82,000 after illegal asbestos removal
A Grantham builder who hid asbestos near a Welbourn school after lying to customers about his qualifications to remove it is to hand over more than £82,000 he earned from dozens of jobs.
Kent, south-east London, Surrey and Oxfordshire were among the places Lee Charles targeted with false paperwork to win high-value contracts.
Last year he was given 12 months in prison, suspended for two years. Now, a court has decided 40-year-old Charles must pay up £82,100 in a proceeds of crime order.
He used the company name Lincs Demolition Ltd for two years, claiming he was registered to remove asbestos – but he had no legal permit from the Environment Agency to do the work.
He zig-zagged England to act out his crimes as far afield as Abingdon, Walsall, Wellingborough, and Worksop, including Barton-upon-Humber, Doncaster, Grantham, Lincoln, Market Rasen, Newark, Scunthorpe, Sleaford, and Spalding.
Having duped customers, Charles stashed the waste asbestos in hired storage containers at Welbourn, 200m from a school and close to a Girl Guide centre. He told the owners of the storage space he wanted to keep tools there. When he failed to pay the rent on the containers, the owners forced the locks and were confronted with the dangerous contents.
Once exposed, Charles abandoned the storage containers, moving to an unpermitted waste site 16 miles away near Sleaford, where he continued to store asbestos unsafely, posing a risk to public health.
Paul Salter, an environmental waste crime officer for the Environment Agency, said: “Lee Charles’ crimes were not just illegal, but dangerous. He has been ordered to pay back money, and this sends out a clear message to others who flout the law that waste crime doesn’t pay.
“Not only do we use environmental law to prosecute offenders, but use proceeds of crime orders to ensure that criminals are deprived of the benefits of their illegal activity.
“The Environment Agency supports legitimate business by disrupting and stopping the criminal element, backed up by the threat of tough enforcement, as in this case.
“We continue to use intelligence-led approaches to target the most serious crimes and evaluate which interventions are most effective.
“If you see or suspect waste crime is being committed, we urge you to report it immediately to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
In March last year, Charles, of Caldicot Gardens, in Grantham, was convicted by Lincoln crown court after pleading guilty to two counts of operating a waste operation without a permit between 2017 and 2019, contrary to regulations 12, 38(1)(a) and 41(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.
He also admitted two counts of keeping or disposing of controlled waste in a manner likely to cause pollution or harm, contrary to sections 33(1)(c), 33(6) and 157(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
This week Lincoln Crown Court ordered Charles to pay £82,100 under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 following an Environment Agency investigation into the costs he avoided while working illegally.
West Lindsey launches grant programme to support businesses
Businesses in West Lindsey have the opportunity to secure grants of up to £15,000 to help with diversification opportunities, improve commercial sustainability, and evolve green infrastructure.
The grant scheme covers three principal areas – capital and revenue grant provision to support business sustainability, capital grants for non-agricultural farm diversification, and capital and revenue grants for agri-tech business development.
Councillor Trevor Young, leader of West Lindsey District Council, said: “This programme will support West Lindsey businesses to take advantage of diversification opportunities, improve commercial sustainability and evolve green infrastructure. The transition to a low carbon economy and rural/green growth are reflected as key local priorities in the current West Lindsey Economic Recovery Plan and Sustainability, Climate Change and Environment Strategy.”
Sally Grindrod-Smith, Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities, said: “We are working closely with our grant administration partner NBV Enterprise Solutions Ltd, to offer grants to eligible businesses ranging from £1,000 to £15,000.
“The grants – allocated on a first come, first served basis (on receipt of an eligible Expression of Interest) are intended to be flexible in order to respond to local business needs. The Council encourage all prospective applicants to fully review grant guidance, which can be found at: UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund Business Grants | West Lindsey District Council (west-lindsey.gov.uk), prior to submitting an Expression of Interest to ensure their project is eligible for funding.”
The fund is due to close to new applicants in December next year, but may close earlier if all of the Council’s funding allocation is awarded.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and a component of its support for places across the UK. It provides £2.6 billion of capital and revenue funding for investment in local projects to be spent by March 2025.
All areas of the UK will receive an allocation from the fund. The primary goal of UKSPF is to build pride in place and increase life chances across the UK. The Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) is a top-up to UKSPF, to be spent between April 2023 and March 2025.
The fund supports activities that specifically address the particular challenges rural areas face. It is capital funding only and is complementary to funding used to support rural areas under the UKSPF.
