East Midlands property consultancy takes on 2,400-mile fundraising relay challenge
A property consultancy is marking its 25th anniversary with an ambitious charity challenge to tour its 25 offices in an epic journey across the country – without any form of motorised transport.
Fisher German, which has offices in Ashby and Market Harborough, has announced its ‘Big 25’ charity challenge to raise at least £25,000 between 25 charities across the country, and will see its colleagues run, cycle, dog-walk, and even space-hop their way between its offices as part of a giant 2,400-mile relay.
The firm has also pledged to match-fund any donations up to £25,000 from supporters, meaning a total of £50,000 could be split between the charities.
The challenge begins on Friday, May 9, with its team journeying from its London office in the City along the Grand Union Canal via methods including cycling, running and walking all the way to its Birmingham office over the course of a week.
Future legs include riding on horseback, sailing, together with great walking, swimming, cycling and running endeavours, before the journey ends back in London on Thursday, October 30.
Key clients of Fisher German will also be invited to take part in the challenge, alongside the grassroots charities delivering vital work in the communities they are located in.
The Big 25 coincides with Fisher German undergoing a major rebrand.
Andrew Bridge, managing partner at Fisher German, said: “We became Fisher German in September 2000, following the merger of Fisher Hoggarth and John German. Our roots, however, stretch back to pre-1830. The firm has grown considerably, and we now employ more than 800 people and assist clients all over the country.
“That’s why we’ve launched the Big 25 challenge to give back to those charities who do so much in the communities we work in, including Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Acorn Children’s Hospice in Worcester, Simon Community Scotland in Glasgow, Sefton Baby Baskets in Liverpool, Katherine House Hospice in Banbury, and Red Kite Family Centre in Thame.
“Our teams have really thrown themselves into this over the last few months in preparation, and we cannot wait to see the first of our colleagues set off from London on a long trip to Birmingham along the canal.
“We not only want to raise vital funds for the fantastic range of charities our staff have chosen but use this as a chance to start a new chapter at Fisher German as we look to grow even further over the next 25 years of the company’s life.
“We would encourage anyone interested to follow the journey on social media, support our staff on their legs, and donate to the charities involved.”
Anyone wishing to donate should visit Fisher German’s GiveWheel link at https://givewheel.com/fundraising/7005/fisher-germans-big-25-challenge/. The money raised will be split equally between the 25 charities.
Fraud losses in Derbyshire jump 467% as scam activity spikes in Q1 2025
Derbyshire businesses and residents suffered £1.3 million in scam-related losses during the first quarter of 2025, according to Santander’s latest Scamtracker report—a dramatic 467% increase on the previous quarter.
The report tracks the scale and nature of Authorised Push Payment (APP) scams and other financial fraud incidents. While Kent led in terms of scam volume outside London with 208 recorded cases, Derbyshire followed closely with 104 incidents. Despite fewer cases, Derbyshire tied with Devon for the second-highest monetary losses outside the capital, each reporting £1.3 million lost.
The volume of scam activity in Derbyshire rose by 10% compared to the final quarter of 2024, signalling growing challenges for financial crime prevention in the region. Other counties, including Hampshire and Greater Manchester, also saw significant increases in fraudulent activity.
The data signals a rising threat for firms managing business payments and customer interactions, particularly as APP scams continue to evolve. The findings reinforce the importance of tightening internal controls, staff training, and client verification procedures to mitigate fraud risks.
The report serves as a warning to businesses operating in high-risk regions to remain vigilant as scam tactics become more sophisticated.
Retailers eye bank holiday lift amid shifting commuter and spending trends
Retailers are banking on a sales uplift during the May bank holidays, as 22 million UK workers plan annual leave, according to Virgin Media O2 Business’s Q1 2025 Movers Index. The report combines anonymised mobile network data with national polling to track movement and behaviour patterns across the country.
Retail footfall dropped 8% year-on-year in Q1 2025, continuing a sluggish start to the year marked by a reported 41% increase in retailers experiencing reduced customer spending. To counter this, 55% of retailers plan to offer special deals or events to draw in customers during the upcoming holidays. However, staffing is a concern, with 42% of retailers blocking employee leave over the period and more than half worried about shortages due to domestic travel plans.
Commuter activity has increased, with a 5% rise in travel during the first three months of the year. Office attendance is also rising, with 52% of employees commuting more frequently and 43% of businesses expected to enforce full-time office returns by June. Wednesday remains the busiest day for office presence. Workers are responding positively to these mandates, especially when companies offer new perks and invest in workplace culture.
Consumer spending remains cautious. Nearly half of Brits plan to spend less over the next three months, with many cancelling subscriptions and prioritising value-driven purchases. The decline is most noticeable among middle-aged shoppers, with the 25–54 demographic making significantly fewer trips to retail areas.
Digital convenience continues to influence purchasing habits. A majority of consumers shop via phone or online to find the best deals, while those who still shop in-store rank checkout speed, Wi-Fi availability, and mobile connectivity as their top priorities. Subscription models tied to travel, wellness, and home improvements may offer stronger potential, as these are the main spending categories identified for spring.
The data highlights a shift in how both consumers and businesses are navigating 2025’s economic landscape. Retailers hoping to drive sales will need to align with evolving work patterns, spending priorities, and customer experience expectations.
145-home development near Leicester Forest East likely to proceed
A proposed housing development by Bloor Homes, involving 145 properties on the southern edge of Leicester Forest East, is expected to secure planning approval from Blaby District Council.
The 27-acre site, located south of the A47, is partly made up of a former golf course and farmland. The plan includes demolishing a 19th-century farmhouse to make way for the scheme. The land is already designated for housing under the council’s local plan.
Local parish councils have raised objections, primarily over the impact of an access road onto the busy A47, as well as concerns about strain on local infrastructure such as schools and healthcare services.
Blaby District Council officers have recommended approving the project, citing the site’s sustainable location and good public transport access. They also confirmed that Bloor Homes would be required to make financial contributions to help offset the development’s impact on local services.
The final decision is set to be made at the council meeting on 8 May.
Private school closure signals business pressure from new VAT rules
St George’s Preparatory School in Boston, Lincolnshire, will shut down at the end of the academic year, citing financial strain following the introduction of VAT on private school fees.
The school, rated “outstanding” by Ofsted, is among the first in the independent sector to announce closure directly linked to the government’s new tax policy, which took effect in January. The VAT measure is part of a broader initiative expected to generate £1.8 billion annually by 2029/30, supporting public services, including state education.
In addition to the VAT burden, the school’s operating costs have risen due to increases in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage. The combined financial pressure has led to daily losses that the school describes as unsustainable.
Falling enrollment has also contributed, as fewer families opt for fee-paying education due to the higher cost base.
The decision highlights growing concern within the independent education sector over the impact of fiscal policy changes on private institutions’ viability. Support measures are being arranged for students transitioning to new schools and for staff facing redundancy.
The policy is currently under legal challenge, with critics arguing it may breach human rights and be discriminatory. The government maintains that the primary aim is revenue generation for public investment.
Travis Perkins sells staircase manufacturer
Travis Perkins, the Northampton-headquartered distributor of building materials, has sold its specialist floor kit, i-joist and staircase manufacturer Staircraft.
Gait Consulting, which is majority owned by the founder of Coventry-based Staircraft, has snapped up the firm for cash consideration of £24m.
Chief financial officer Duncan Cooper said: “The sale of Staircraft is another step towards simplifying the Group’s operating model with a clear focus on being the UK’s leading distributor of building materials.
“The proceeds will be used to strengthen the Group’s balance sheet and will support our disciplined approach to reinvesting in our core assets.
“I would like to thank all colleagues in Staircraft for their contribution as part of the Group and wish them all the best for the future as an independent business.”
Network Rail selects Henry Boot Construction for low-carbon facility upgrade in North Lincolnshire
Network Rail has appointed Henry Boot Construction to deliver a new low-carbon Maintenance Delivery Unit (MDU) next to Barnetby Station in North Lincolnshire, as part of its push to modernise and decarbonise operational infrastructure.
The scheme includes a two-storey, 9,500 sq ft facility with integrated welfare areas, offices, storage, and support infrastructure such as a service yard, car parking, and road reconfiguration. The design features a timber-framed structure, designed to reduce embodied carbon while offering improved thermal performance and daylight efficiency.
Key sustainability features include rooftop solar panels, triple-glazed windows, air-source heat pumps, and electric vehicle (EV) charging points. These upgrades are funded via Network Rail’s Green Bank and are intended to set a new environmental standard for future MDU developments nationwide.
Henry Boot Construction leads the project as principal contractor, while Ridge provides structural and architectural consultancy. The project is being delivered through the Crown Commercial Service’s CWAS framework and is scheduled for completion by early 2026.
Totally to conduct strategic review as financial performance expectations reduced
A formal review will be conducted at Totally, the provider of healthcare and wellbeing services, of the strategic options available to the group to strengthen its balance sheet as financial performance expectations are reduced at the Derby firm.
The Totally board will consider strategic options including selling one or more of the company’s subsidiaries, receiving strategic investment, or undertaking some other form of comparable corporate action.
The company has appointed Ernst & Young (EY) as its adviser to assist with the strategic review.
The news follows a statement this morning (1 May) on trading, the stepping down of Laurence Goldberg, Chief Financial Officer, from the board of directors, and an historic negligence claim from January 2018 that is expected to be more expensive than anticipated.
The business revealed that is has reduced its financial performance expectations, after announcing on 14 February that it expected to report £85m revenue and £3.5m EBITDA for FY25.
This follows the impact of factors including a slower than expected ramp up of a recent contract win and reduced operating margins as higher margin contracts have unwound, principally NHS111. The company had indicated that it may have been possible to redeploy people/costs associated with this contract within the business, however, this has not been possible.
As the board continues to review the group’s financial performance for FY25, current estimates indicate an EBITDA range of between £0m and £2.0m. In addition, exceptional costs during the period are estimated to amount to £3.8m and there have been other cash costs capitalised on the balance sheet of a further £0.8m. The exceptional costs primarily relate to the closing of the 111 contract with the NHS.
Northampton brewery products provider snapped up
Rawlings Group, a Bristol-based specialist in the packaging and drink processing equipment industry, has acquired Northampton brewery products and services provider Niche Solutions.
The Rawlings Group is a multi-brand enterprise consisting of Rawlings, Vigo, Paperbagco, Glass Jars and Bottles, Aqua, and Rawlings Retail.
Through the acquisition of Niche Solutions, which specialises in fermentation aids, cleaning chemicals, kegs, and laboratory testing, Rawlings Group will be able to expand its offerings and provide a one-stop-shop for breweries.
Tom Wood, CEO of Rawlings Group, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Niche Solutions into the Rawlings Group. The acquisition represents an exciting step forward for our business, allowing us to strengthen our services and further support the needs of breweries across the UK.
“Niche Solutions shares our passion for quality and innovation, and we’re excited to deliver an unmatched end-to-end service to drinks producers.”
GS Verde Group supported Rawlings Group with the acquisition.
Mansfield marketing academy secures funding for growth
Growth is on the horizon for a Mansfield marketing academy for entrepreneurs after securing funding from the Community Investment Enterprise Fund (CIEF) delivered by BCRS Business Loans.
Touchpoints Marketing has received £30,000 to expand the business, including moving staff from part time to full time roles and securing key trademarks to protect the company’s intellectual property.
Registered as a limited company in 2021 by experienced marketer Vic Taylor, Touchpoints Marketing will use the funds as it builds a new portfolio of training programmes, including enabling two part time employees to go full time.
The finance has also been used to promote the company at business fairs, purchase laptops for staff, invest in the launch of the company’s first book, maintain cashflow while they await payment from institutional clients and to secure trademark registrations for key offerings.
Vic Taylor, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing who draws upon 25 years of experience, said: “Securing the finance from BCRS Business Loans has enabled us to put in place the changes we need to grow as a company, delivering marketing training which will enable the next generation of entrepreneurs to build businesses which have a positive impact on their communities.
“There is large demand from people who want to start and grow their own business and need to understand how they market their offering, which is where Touchpoints Marketing can teach them the tools they need to grow.
“BCRS have a very personal approach to lending. I had a main point of contact throughout the process, and they took the time to find out what we were doing with the finance.”
Mark Savill, Business Development Manager at Wolverhampton-based BCRS Business Loans, said: “BCRS is a story-based lender, and we support businesses to make a positive social and economic impact. We look forward to seeing Vic and her team progress to the next level in their growth plans while enabling new entrepreneurs to create employment opportunities not only for themselves but for others, benefitting the wider economy.”
Rolls-Royce hails “strong start to the year,” with all divisions performing well
Rolls-Royce has hailed “a strong start to the year,” with all divisions performing well.
In a new trading update the Derby firm highlighted that despite uncertainties associated with tariffs and continued supply chain challenges, 2025 guidance of £2.7bn-£2.9bn of underlying operating profit and £2.7bn-£2.9bn of free cash flow remains unchanged.
The company noted that demand for its products and services remains strong across the group.
“We are continuing to strengthen our balance sheet,” Rolls-Royce added, “enabled by a more resilient and growing cash delivery…. We are making good progress with our £1bn share buyback, having completed £138m by the end of March.” The news follows Rolls-Royce submitting its final tender to Great British Nuclear in April.
The business is holding its Annual General Meeting today (1 May). In his address to shareholders, Chief Executive Tufan Erginbilgic will say: “Our transformation of Rolls-Royce is progressing strongly and we continue to expand the earnings and cash potential of the business.
“We are creating a more resilient and agile Rolls-Royce that is better equipped to respond to changes in the external environment. As a result, we have had a strong start to the year.
“The recently announced global tariff increases have created a degree of uncertainty for the industry. We expect to offset the impact of announced tariffs on our business through the mitigating actions we are taking. We are closely monitoring the potential indirect impact on economic growth and inflation, and will continue to take the necessary actions.
“Good progress on our transformation and the actions we are taking give us confidence in our guidance for 2025 of £2.7bn-£2.9bn of underlying operating profit and £2.7bn-£2.9bn of free cash flow.”
Nottingham car dealership site sold in off-market deal
A dual-franchise car dealership site on Hucknall Road, Bobbers Mill, Nottingham, has changed hands in a discreet off-market transaction. The high-profile property, home to Hyundai and Citroën dealerships operated by Vertu Motors, has been owned by private investors for several years.
The sale was handled by Salloway Property Consultants on behalf of the sellers. Director Stephen Salloway said: “Our clients are prudent family investors who regularly review their portfolio. While there was no immediate plan to sell, the timing of this approach aligned with other opportunities, and they were willing to consider a serious offer.”
The buyer was represented by Will Torr of heb: “We were actively seeking long term income for private investor clients and we identified this site as a suitable addition to their portfolio. We opened a discussion with Steve Salloway and quickly reached terms that satisfied both parties.”
Salloway added: “The transaction progressed smoothly, thanks in large part to the professional efforts of Kerry Elliott of Actons, who acted for the seller, and Carla Dawn and Heather Jellyman at RJS Solicitors, who represented the buyer. Their work was instrumental in bringing the deal to a successful close.”
The Hyundai and Citroën dealerships are unaffected by the transaction.
Winvic announces ‘Beds for Beds’ charity partnership for UKREiiF
Northampton-headquartered Winvic Construction has announced its pavilion programme at UKREiiF next month and has a new partnership with Leeds-based charity Zarach.
Partners joining Winvic in the pavilion include Ridge, UMC Architects and Maber, who alongside industry and government representatives, will bring expertise together to drive conversation and action on key topics such as Net Zero, ESG and social value, the housing crisis, the Building Safety Act, and the growth of data centres.
As part of its UKREiiF attendance, Winvic will be supporting Zarach, a Leeds-based charity helping children living in poverty by providing beds to those without a safe, comfortable place to sleep.
The ‘Beds for Beds’ programme will see the contractor fundraising in the run up to and throughout the event, by inviting its clients, supply chain and partners to join them in making a meaningful impact.
With a target of 24 bed bundles – a bed, mattress, bedding and pyjamas – which symbolises the contractors 24 storeys at its Lisbon Street multi-room scheme in Leeds, Winvic will match-fund the number of bed bundles pledged during the event via a QR Code in the pavilion. Winvic is also working with Leeds-based social enterprise Shine for its catering.
Heidi Salmons, director of marketing, business development and social responsibility at Winvic, said: “We’re thrilled to be a pavilion partner at UKREiiF 2025. Collaboration sits at the heart of everything we do, from industry-wide knowledge sharing to supporting grassroots initiatives that make a real difference. Our sessions will explore key topics and insights into the latest industry trends and challenges, shaping the future of construction and the built environment.
“Guided by our ’Doing It Right’ ethos and The Winvic Way values, our partnership with Zarach reflects our commitment to balancing commercial endeavour with positive community impact during UKREiiF and beyond.
“It means a great deal to us to be supporting such a dynamic and effective charity, which puts the wellbeing and educational needs of children in Leeds at its heart. We hope our partners and wider network embrace the opportunity to make a difference and support our ‘Beds for Beds’ fundraising campaign.”
Ellie McGrath, fundraising and supporter engagement manager at Zarach, said: “Zarach is delighted to partner with Winvic and we are grateful that their contribution to our mission will enable us to lift many more children out of bed poverty. We believe that every child deserves a good night’s sleep and a bed to call their own, and partnerships like this have an impact that lasts a childhood.”
Nathan Spencer, managing director at UKREiiF, said: “We are thrilled to have Winvic on board as a pavilion partner for our 2025 event. Their expertise and reputation in the construction industry make them a perfect fit for UKREiiF, where we aim to showcase the best of the UK’s real estate, infrastructure, and investment sectors.
“Winvic’s participation underscores the importance of innovation and sustainability in the built environment, and we look forward to the insights and contributions they will bring to the forum.”
Hydrogen propulsion lab set to boost UK clean-tech R&D
Construction is underway on a £5 million hydrogen propulsion systems laboratory at the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus, with completion expected by December 2025.
Delivered by Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson, the facility is designed to support high-power testing of propulsion systems using gaseous hydrogen, ammonia, and other alternative fuels. It will serve key industries including aerospace, automotive, marine, and power generation.
The lab will include advanced testing environments such as cryogenic capabilities and environmental chambers capable of altitude simulation. It will also be connected to the university’s existing Power Electronics and Machines Centre (PEMC), giving researchers access to megawatt-class physical testing infrastructure.
Targeting a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, the lab will feature on-site renewable energy generation through integrated photovoltaic panels. Noise levels during operation will be managed with acoustic doors. The building’s steel frame and cladding are being designed to align with the surrounding campus architecture.
This initiative aligns with broader national goals to advance clean energy technologies and strengthen the UK’s low-carbon industrial base.
Adrian Grocock, managing director of G F Tomlinson, said: “We are proud to be part of this landmark project that will position the University of Nottingham as a regional leader in driving economic growth through green industries and advanced manufacturing. “Our longstanding relationship with the university spans over seven capital projects, including our recent work on the Advanced Manufacturing Building on Derby Road, close to the new hydrogen lab site. This new centre, along with its hydrogen propulsion lab, will support world-leading research and play a key role in advancing the UK’s clean energy goals.” Chris Gerada, professor of electrical machines and lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham, added: “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with G F Tomlinson, who are already on site delivering the Central Building refurbishment at the Castle Meadow Campus. “Their experience and expertise in delivering high-quality, innovative projects make them the ideal partner for our new hydrogen propulsion systems lab. This world-class facility and the R&D programmes will deepen our partnership with industries including aerospace, automotive, marine and power generation.”Hydrogen rail freight project targets zero-emissions and UK supply chain growth
A new rail initiative in the East Midlands is exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology to cut emissions in freight transport and strengthen the UK’s industrial supply chain.
Led by the University of Derby in partnership with Clayton Equipment, the pilot project is focused on replacing diesel-powered shunter locomotives with zero-emission fuel cell hybrids. Funded through the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ), the project supports the UK’s wider push towards Net Zero goals and is the first of 15 innovation pilots backed by the newly formed East Midlands Combined County Authority.
The research team has developed a digital twin simulation to model the performance of fuel cell-powered locomotives under different operating scenarios. The model assesses variables such as refuelling, stopping, energy demands, and emission reductions. The goal is to evaluate the feasibility of converting existing diesel-hybrid locomotives into hydrogen-powered systems.
Hydrogen fuel cells, already proven in automotive and passenger rail sectors, offer comparable performance to diesel engines but with zero emissions. Applying this technology to shunting operations could open new commercial opportunities, support low-carbon logistics, and stimulate growth in engineering skills and component manufacturing across the UK.
The project is expected to inform future manufacturing guidelines and enhance the region’s role in green and advanced transport technologies. Based in Derby, a key rail industry hub and the future home of Great British Railways, the project also aims to boost exports and attract investment in local testing and development facilities.
AECOM strengthens UK water capabilities with Allen Gordon acquisition
AECOM has acquired UK-based engineering consultancy Allen Gordon to expand its footprint in the water and energy infrastructure sector. Established in 1971, Allen Gordon brings a strong portfolio of utility and renewable energy clients, which will deepen AECOM’s relationships in these fast-growing markets.
The acquisition aligns with AECOM’s strategic goal to double its global water business within five years. It also comes as the UK anticipates over £250 billion in investment across the water and energy sectors in the next decade—driven by regulatory demands and climate resilience initiatives.
Allen Gordon’s integration is expected to enhance AECOM’s ability to deliver on major frameworks, including the AMP8 regulatory programme set for 2025–2030. AECOM’s Environment, Water and Energy division, launched in 2022, has already supported key national projects such as the Great Grid Upgrade, Southern Water’s Professional Services Framework, and Severn Trent’s flood resilience scheme in Mansfield.
The move further positions AECOM to capitalise on large-scale infrastructure opportunities across the UK and Ireland, with a focus on sustainability, resilience, and regulatory compliance.
125-home development proposed for former Raleigh HQ site in Eastwood
A detailed application has been submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council for a £41 million housing development on the site of Raleigh’s former headquarters in Eastwood, Nottinghamshire.
Developer Homes by Honey is seeking approval for the design, layout, and appearance of 125 residential properties planned for the Church Street location. Outline planning permission was previously granted in January.
The site was vacated by Raleigh in 2024 when the company relocated its head office to Durban House, also in Eastwood.
The proposed development, branded “Raleigh” to reflect the site’s history, includes new vehicle access from Church Street, pedestrian routes from the north, and green spaces integrated throughout the layout.
More than £1 million in financial contributions has been pledged by the developer to support local education, healthcare, and bus infrastructure. The council will issue a final decision on the full application in due course.
L&G adds Nottingham PBSA asset as part of £1bn growth strategy
Legal & General has acquired a 409-bed student accommodation asset in Nottingham for its Institutional Retirement business, continuing its push into the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector.
The property, located near the University of Nottingham’s new Castle Meadow Campus, was completed in August 2024. It is now in its first academic year of operation and will continue to be managed by Homes for Students under the Prestige Student Living brand.
L&G’s PBSA strategy focuses on recently developed, operational assets with strong sustainability credentials. The Nottingham site meets this brief, holding BREEAM Excellent, WiredScore Platinum, and EPC A certifications.
The deal aligns with L&G’s plan to deploy around £500 million into the PBSA market over the next two years, with a target of managing more than 5,000 beds and building a portfolio exceeding £1 billion.
To support platform growth, L&G has appointed James Brant as Senior Asset Manager. He joins from CRM Students, bringing over a decade of experience across university partnerships and private PBSA operations.
The acquisition adds to L&G’s broader residential portfolio and supports its long-term strategy of delivering institutional-grade rental housing on a larger scale.
Derby Eastern Gateway development set to complete this summer
Work transforming the eastern side of Derby city centre is in full swing, with the Eastern Gateway development set to be completed this summer.
Delivered by Derbion and part-funded by Derby City Council, through the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, the Eastern Gateway will introduce a new façade and urban garden, transforming the area opposite the bus station and the eastern entrance to Derbion.
In the coming weeks, work will begin on a brand-new play area, including a climbing feature and interactive activity panels designed to provide inclusive play for children of all needs.
The space will also feature new planting and bench seating, creating a welcoming outdoor area for visitors to enjoy. In addition, plans are underway to bring additional attractions to the area, such as brand promotions, family-friendly activities and pop-up food stalls once the area is fully opened.
The Kinetic Wall and Playground are expected to be in place later this year.
Planning is also in progress for a large-format advertising wall, with installation expected during autumn/winter 2025 if approved.
Beth McDonald, Managing Director of Derbion, said: “The Eastern Gateway project forms part of an exciting vision for Derbion, contributing further to the vibrancy and attractiveness of the city centre.
“With development now in its final phase, we’re looking forward to seeing the transformative impact that this project has in providing a new, welcoming and inclusive space for visitors.”
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: “This development is key to better connecting different parts of our city centre, and it’s brilliant to see the progress happening on site.
“By transforming this area, we’re not just enhancing the look and feel of this important gateway into our city centre but creating a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
“We’re really pleased to be partnering with Derbion on this and are looking forward to seeing the vision turn into reality over the coming months.”
Derby City Council was awarded £15 million through the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to support the development of the city centre, with £3 million allocated to the Eastern Gateway project. Derbion has funded a further £1 million towards the development.
Three units sold at Derbyshire industrial estate for £1.1m
NG Chartered Surveyors has completed the sale of three industrial units at Erewash Court on the Manners Industrial Estate in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, with the combined value nearing £1.1 million.
Units 2 and 3 were sold on behalf of a landlord by NG director Charlotte Steggles, while Unit 5 was handled separately by surveyor Alicia Lewis for another private client.
The transactions signal continued investor and occupier demand for well-located industrial space in the East Midlands, with Erewash Court drawing notable interest due to its accessibility and specification. The deals reflect ongoing strength in the region’s commercial property market, particularly for SME-targeted industrial units.
The estate remains a key location for regional businesses seeking functional, mid-sized premises with good transport links.
