Seven figure deal secured for Nottingham office

In a testament to the growing confidence of the East Midlands commercial property market, Innes England has completed a major deal with an offer being tendered within 24 hours of the property reaching the market.
Located at The Triangle, at Nottingham’s NG2 Business Park, the detached 5,730 sq ft property was put on the market on December 5, with an offer at the asking price being received the following day. 

The final paperwork concluded on Valentine’s Day just 10 weeks later, with the new owners now planning to move in by the summer.

The seven-figure deal reflects the burgeoning commercial property market in the East Midlands despite it still absorbing the consequences of the UK’s economic turmoil in the second half of last year.

Ross Whiting, director at Innes England who handled the deal having previously managed the property, said: “The striking thing about it has been the quick turnaround between putting the property to market and signing the final bits of paperwork.

“Especially for a property of this size and for a solid price, the fact that an offer was tendered within 24 hours which was consequently paid just ten weeks later, with Christmas and the New Year period in between, is remarkable. The quick timeframe meant that handling the transaction was an exercise in due diligence and ensuring every detail was taken care of.”

Colleague Andy Nuttall, associate director in the property asset management department, added: “Our management of the property served us well as we worked with all the parties involved to ensure a smooth sale process, including dealing with the service charges and compliance. We are also pleased to continue managing the property on behalf of the new owners.”

The vendor, Rod Shiers, said: “It wasn’t surprising to see such keen interest in the property – it’s an impressive building in a desirable location that has great access to the tram and the A52. Ross and the team at Innes England worked hard to assist us in achieving a prompt sale and gave good advice throughout the process.”

Topps Tiles hails record first half revenues

After reporting record years for revenue in both 2021 and 2022, Topps Tiles, the tile specialist, has delivered a record first half. According to a trading update for the 26-week period ended 1 April 2023, revenues at the Leicestershire-based firm reached £130.5m, £11.3m or 9.5% higher than the prior year. Approximately £9m of revenue growth was related to the acquisition of Pro Tiler Tools and the launch of Tile Warehouse in 2022. Rob Parker, CEO, said: “Our performance across the first half has been good, with a record period for group revenues, supported by like-for-like sales growth in Topps Tiles of 4.3% and an excellent post-acquisition performance from Pro Tiler Tools. “The economic outlook remains uncertain but early signs of easing supply chain pressures, allied to the group’s strong balance sheet, world class customer service, specialist expertise and growth strategy give us confidence in our ability to drive value for all stakeholders over the medium term.”

Green light given to start work on 333 brand-new Nottingham homes

Countryside Partnerships, the mixed tenure developer, has been granted planning permission by Rushcliffe Borough Council to start work constructing 333 brand-new homes at Fairham and has signed agreements with emh group and Start Living for the scheme’s affordable and private rented homes. Countryside Partnerships is the first developer to start work on the site, which will bring forward much-needed housing to the local area. ‘Alvaredus’, so named as a nod to the area’s lineage to Alvaredus de Clifton, a Norman knight, will deliver 333 new homes and provide a sustainable new community made up of two, three and four- bedroom properties. The scheme will deliver 133 homes for private sale, 100 affordable homes for emh group and 100 private rental homes through Start Living, the single family build-to-rent joint venture between Gatehouse Investment Management and TPG Real Estate Partners. Martin Harrison, Managing Director, North East Midlands, Countryside Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to get the green light to start work to build a well-planned, safe and friendly community with a great mix of housing options to suit everyone. “It is great to be partnering with emh group on this inclusive residential development which will not only create housing, but also local employment and with millions of pounds of investment in the local economy.” Chris Jones, executive director for development at emh group, said: “We are proud to be working with Countryside Partnerships on this exciting new scheme. These 100 new high-quality homes will contribute towards meeting the housing aspirations of people in the area and will support the local community to thrive.” Paul Stockwell, Managing Director of Gatehouse Investment Management, said: “Having worked closely with Countryside Partnerships on other developments, it is hugely pleasing to be undertaking another project with them, which when complete will be Start Living’s third site in Nottingham. Securing planning permission is a major milestone for the scheme, and we look forward to construction getting underway.” Homes England and Clowes Developments have partnered to deliver Fairham, a 606-acre mixed-use neighbourhood located on the southern edge of Clifton. Fairham will not only deliver new employment opportunities but will also assist Rushcliffe Borough Council in meeting its new homes target of 13,500 dwellings by 2030. In order for Countryside Partnerships to achieve planning consent for Alvaredus, the team had to pay close attention to the Fairham masterplan and adhere to strict design codes intended to encourage developers to create schemes that comply with Fairham’s aspirations for quality, deliverability and sustainability, providing people with the opportunity to flourish and thrive in a well-rounded built and natural environment. Residents at Alvaredus will benefit from Fairham’s expansive cycle ways, green corridors, ecological and wildlife zones, a neighbourhood centre and excellent public transport links. Robert Hepwood, director – Clowes Developments, said: “After many years of planning Fairham, we are absolutely delighted to welcome Countryside Partnerships to the development. To date, most of the works at Fairham have centred around a £100 million infrastructure works package, ensuring that power, utilities, sewerage, drainage, and roads are in place. “The first four buildings on Fairham Business Park are nearing completion with occupiers scheduled to move in before the end of the year. We have worked closely with the NET to create a brand-new access road off Mill Hill serving the Park and Ride and Fairham. “Having the first housing developers mobilising their team on site is a very exciting next step for Fairham.” Countryside Partnerships is due to start the construction of Alvaredus at Fairham imminently.

Property consultancy makes 24 promotions across East Midlands offices

A property consultancy has made 24 promotions across its offices in the East Midlands following a period of growth. Fisher German has promoted 19 colleagues at its head office in Ashby, while five have been promoted at its Market Harborough offices. Three have been named as partners – Louise Duffin and James Watson at Market Harborough, and Richard Gadd at Ashby, while seven people have also progressed within the partnership. At Ashby, Matthias Charlton becomes associate partner, Joanne Ziemelis becomes senior associate, while Antonia Wyatt, Emma Pattisson, Hannah Price and Robert Webster have been promoted to associate. Bev Cowley becomes PR manager, Joanne Morton becomes senior administrator, Katy Bregazzi becomes senior GIS technician, Emily Weston becomes senior planner, and Joanna Grew is now people system officer. Further promotions at the Market Harborough office include Harry Edwards, who becomes associate partner, Matthew Trembath, who is now an associate, and Julia Dilworth, who becomes a senior estate administrator. The promotions in Market Harborough come after a recent move for the team to a new office at Welland Business Park after being based in the town’s high street for decades. Louise, who joined Fisher German as a graduate in 2001, advises a variety of clients across Leicestershire, Rutland and beyond on estate management, and regularly works with Fisher German’s development and planning teams on major projects. She heads up a team of seven and is hopeful of attracting new surveyors into the company now she has been invited into the partnership. Louise said: “It’s fantastic I have joined the partnership after working my way up through Fisher German since joining right after I finished my degree. “Fisher German has always supported me in my career from day one, and for me to have the opportunity to become a partner despite working part-time shows the faith in me and in what I can do for the company. “It’s great that 24 of us have been promoted across the East Midlands, and this reflects the strength of the team in the region. “I am excited to help bring in new talent to our new office in Market Harborough, help them grow their careers, and continue the excellent advisory work we provide for our clients every day.” The news follows Fisher German’s merger with Matthews & Goodman in June last year – a deal which has created one of the largest providers of multi-disciplinary property services in the UK, with 28 offices and a turnover approaching £60 million. Fisher German has made a total of 54 promotions, including ten partner promotions, through the firm’s career progression framework, which gives employees a clear pathway to advance within the business. There have also been 20 progressions within the partnership. Duncan Bedhall, senior partner at Fisher German, said: “I would like to congratulate all of those who have received promotions, and it is fantastic to welcome ten colleagues to the partnership. “This announcement demonstrates the career progression opportunities at all levels and specialisms within the firm and shows our commitment to investing in learning and development right across the business. It also highlights the exceptional quality and hard work of our colleagues. “It is excellent to see a number of colleagues who joined us from Matthews & Goodman receive promotions. “The business continues to go from strength to strength following the merger, and we continue to capitalise on collaborative opportunities within the firm which benefit both the business and our clients. “I look forward to announcing further promotions across the firm later in the year.”

Basford planning consultancy celebrates 40th year in business

The 1st April to most is an opportunity to play tricks on each other, but for Aspbury Planning, this year was serious, as the business turned 40 years old. The business (originally named Antony Aspbury Associates) was founded by Tony Aspbury in 1983 with the first offices based at Castle Gate, Newark. In 2007 the business moved to its current location at 20 Park Lane Business Centre in Basford. In the spirit of growth and reinventing itself, in 2015 the business moved into its next phase with a new name and so ‘Aspbury Planning Ltd’ was born. Aspbury has always been and will continue to be a hub for development and growth. It has helped to develop confidence and skills in its team that have led to substantial promotions for them in the planning world. 2022 saw Denise Knipe become Managing Director and secure Asbury’s future for many years to come. In an ever-changing world where many things are uncertain, Aspbury Planning has stood the test of time. Its future looks bright and its team are stronger than ever. It plans to celebrate this momentous occasion with a party in the summer months to thank everyone who has helped Aspbury Planning to achieve the success it has, so watch this space. In the meantime, if you need help with your project contact Aspbury Planning today! Aspbury Planning is small, but mighty, with the skills and knowledge to drive projects forward, whilst providing a consistently excellent service.

Nominations open: East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023

Nominations are now OPEN for East Midlands Business Link’s annual Bricks Awards, shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry. The prestigious event recognises development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. Take this opportunity to showcase your team, reward their efforts, and boost morale. To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:

Nominations end Thursday 31 August

Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 28 September, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction professionals from across the region. The event will also welcome Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place Marketing at Leicester City Council, as keynote speaker. Find out who last year’s winners were here.

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the awards event – 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 County Cricket Club 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.
Guests network at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022
Thanks to our sponsors:                                                             To be held at:

6 steps for social media success

Nearly every business owner knows the importance of social media marketing – and video is the most effective form of online advertising content, generally achieving better audience retention and engagement when compared with other formats like still images. This ultimately leads to a higher click-through rate and more sales. However, that’s only when you use video on social media in the correct way. Here is your six-step action plan for successful social media video marketing. Step 1) Create 4 short videos each month Assuming you post one video each week, making four short and engaging videos all in one ‘batch’ saves a lot of time – being part of your monthly to-do, rather than weekly. To ensure suitability across multiple social media platforms, your marketing videos should be no longer than 59 seconds. This also helps with viewer retention, as you won’t be requesting too much of their time. Each video should be highly engaging, with a ‘hook’ at the beginning to keep viewers interested. Step 2) Export each video in both Square and Portrait aspect ratios Aspect ratio basically refers to the ‘crop’ or ‘shape’ of the video, such as landscape (widescreen), square, or portrait. Typically, these would be referred to as 16:9, 1:1 and 9:16 respectively. As most social media videos are watched on phones, your videos should be uploaded using the most suitable aspect ratio, to ensure that they take up a lot of ‘real estate’ on a phone screen. This means you should opt for square (1:1) and portrait (9:16), as these are the most favourable across various social media platforms. Make sure you export each of your four videos in both square and portrait, effectively creating eight videos. Step 3) Post square videos on Facebook and LinkedIn Facebook and LinkedIn can be awkward places to post portrait videos, as you usually find that a portion of your video (e.g. the bottom quarter) is covered up by the platform’s interface and buttons. Particularly if you then boost the video, Facebook will crop a portrait video to make it less tall, potentially hiding an important part of the video content. It is best, therefore, to post the square aspect ratio versions of your four videos to Facebook and LinkedIn. Step 4) Post portrait videos on TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts These platforms are designed for 9:16 portrait videos, allowing you to dominate a phone screen’s real estate and achieve maximum attention from your audience. Step 5) Boost the videos to reach a big targeted audience Some business owners believe they will have success with social media video marketing without actually ‘boosting’ their posts (paying Facebook, for example, to show the videos to more people). However, it’s just not realistic to expect a return on investment if you don’t make an investment. You should ideally spend at least £50 per video to reach a big and targeted audience. Videos without any ‘boost’ budget don’t even reach all of your page followers, while a boosted video can be seen by many, many more people and specifically target your demographic and geographical region. Step 6) Make it really easy for yourself If you want to make life easy, get the very best high-quality content, and be left only to post and boost the videos, you should look to hire a video production company that specialises in this kind of videography. While some such companies might charge thousands per month, Glowfrog Video Production are currently offering a social media discount bundle deal, in which you get four videos each month – in both square and portrait aspect ratios – for just £99 each! Just click here for more information or head to www.glowfrogvideo.com/bundle.

New dean appointed at Nottingham University Business School

The University of Nottingham has appointed professor David Park as the new dean of the Nottingham University Business School. Dr David Park is a professor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation and was previously associate dean (external engagement) and the director of Executive Education for the School. Professor Park holds three degrees (BEng, MSc, PhD) from the university, in engineering and artificial intelligence, and has a wealth of practical entrepreneurial experience gained in the UK and New Zealand from starting and running his own innovative businesses and social enterprises. He has first-hand experience in raising millions of dollars’ worth of start-up funds, growing effective, multi-disciplinary teams, and completing multi-million-dollar licensing deals with FTSE100 companies. He has also played an active role in helping create national policies across a number of sectors including food, geospatial engineering and UAV systems. As well as providing strategic support and mentoring to hundreds of early-stage companies and social enterprises across the UK, he has enthusiastically mentored and taught thousands of Undergraduate and Postgraduate students from across the world. Professor David Park, dean of the Nottingham University Business School, said: “This is an exceptionally exciting time to become dean of Nottingham University Business School. There are some fantastic opportunities on the horizon in academia and business to help us realise the School’s potential.” The news comes as the School is set to make a significant investment in its staff, students and research, as well as expanding its operations to the new Castle Meadow Campus in the city centre. The Business School will conduct teaching, research and partnership activity on the new site, establish a new Executive Education Centre, and provide a practice-orientated campus where employers and postgraduate students can work and learn together.

Third acquisition in two months for Cooper Parry

Derbyshire-based Cooper Parry has acquired London financial planning business, Future Perfect, to become part of the Cooper Parry Wealth family. The deal quickly follows the acquisitions of ihorizon, one of the UK’s leading early stage accounting players, and Acclivity, a boutique advisory firm specialising in accountancy, tax and consultancy to entrepreneurs and high growth early stage businesses. All three are London-based, specialist firms and take Cooper Parry’s total headcount to over 540. Ade Cheatham, Cooper Parry CEO, said: “It’s been an incredibly fast start to the year and we’re on a roll. This Future Perfect deal is another sign of Cooper Parry’s 100% commitment to size and scale through the PE-backed acquisition of high calibre firms – who are the right fit – to help drive our ambitious client-first growth.” Stephen Jones, Cooper Parry Wealth CEO, said: “Right from the first tentative conversations with Future Perfect, we realised there was a genuinely likeminded approach. A proper connection. Both firms share a very similar philosophy. As a result, the client experience should be very smooth from the word go.” Sue Royle, co-founder, Future Perfect, added: “We were really impressed by the dynamic culture and ambition to be a leading financial planning force in the UK. It’s clear that everything’s in place to deliver an enhanced experience for our clients. I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.” Nick Crowe, co-founder, Future Perfect, said: “In recent years, we’ve had a good deal of interest from other businesses. We have always had some key non-negotiables. Cooper Parry Wealth ticked every box – and plenty more. They are well-established, credible and will provide our client base with a perfect new home.”

Accountancy team goes eggstra mile for kids this Easter

Children who’ve faced a difficult start in life will benefit from some Easter joy this year, thanks to the fundraising work done by East Midlands accountancy firm Page Kirk. Generous team members have donated Easter Eggs to the NSPCC’s Midlands Hub, which runs vital services including DART – a domestic abuse recovery programme for children and parents – as well as an online safety initiative for primary school kids called InCtrl. Amanda Willis, head receptionist at the accountancy firm based in Nottingham, takes responsibility for co-ordinating the fundraising efforts. “At Page Kirk, we wanted to do our part to support the NSPCC’s important work. We hope these chocolate treats will bring some normality and joy to children who’ve sadly faced a number of problems in their lives,” she says. “It’s great to know that we’re supporting an important cause like the NSPCC and we’re intending to help a number of other charities in the months ahead.” The NSPCC Midlands Hub, which has been based out of Jenny Farr house in Nottingham since 1985, provides a range of services to support local families, including their Direct Services team and Childline colleagues, as well as those from the Schools Service, Local Campaigns and Fundraising. Beth Thomas, who works at the Midlands Hub, expressed her gratitude for the donation, saying: “Thank you so much for your wonderful donation. All of those Easter goodies are on their way to some lovely children that we’ve been working with over the last couple of months on various programmes.” As part of Page Kirk’s commitment to corporate responsibility, they have pledged to support 12 charities throughout 2023, a different one each month. January saw them donating baby items to charity Baby Basics in Long Eaton, while in February they raised much needed cash for Brinsley Animal Rescue. Next to benefit will be survivors of sexual violence, who are the focus of the firm’s charity work throughout April. The direct beneficiary will be Nottinghamshire Sexual Violence Support Services (Notts SVS Services), which provides free support to anyone aged 18 or over living in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, who has experienced sexual abuse, sexual violence or rape. The organisation offers a helpline, counselling and therapies, email support and group support. It also provides Independent Sexual Violence Advisers for those going through the criminal justice process and people who have survived institutional child sexual abuse. Karen Jardine, campaigns and communications officer of Notts SVS Services, said: “Notts SVS Services are delighted to be Page Kirk’s chosen charity for April. Sexual violence affects many people’s lives and yet it is rarely talked about. “This can increase the feelings of shame and isolation for survivors. Through their fundraising, Page Kirk are not only helping to change the lives of those who have experienced sexual violence, but are also letting them know that they are valued and are seen.”

Northamptonshire accountancy firm expands

An accountancy firm has expanded its offering in Northamptonshire by expanding into a second office and setting up a YouTube recording studio. N-Accounting, which is based in Burlington House on Wellingborough Road, is now occupying an additional office in the same building, giving the team extra space and providing more client opportunities. The office now offers a separate meeting room for client privacy, internal meetings and planning sessions for the company’s popular Quarterly Planning Days, the next of which takes place in June. The extra space is also being used to film content for the firm’s dedicated YouTube Channel and other social media platforms. Managing Director Nishi Patel is recording his popular podcast Unrelenting Drive from the new studio. Managing Director Nishi Patel said: “As an ambitious firm which focuses heavily on growth and opportunity, we are thrilled to have moved offices and now be able to record our video content in-house. We were keen to stay in the great location of Burlington House, so it is fantastic that they have been able to accommodate our growth.” N-Accounting have also hired a new marketing assistant who will bolster the team’s promotional capacity and lead generation, as well as an admin and bookkeeping assistant to strengthen the team.

Company fined £2.3m after workers put at risk of death

A major pipeline transportation company has been fined £2.3 million for safety breaches after its employees were exposed to risk of serious injury and even death while working on a leaking pipeline containing petrol under pressure. Workers at Exolum Pipeline System Ltd, formerly known as CLH Pipeline System (CLH-PS) Ltd, were excavating a suspected pipeline leak in the woodland adjacent to the B1398 and M180 near Holme, North Lincolnshire, between 7 to 10 March 2018. The employees were working in an area where a previous repair had taken place. The risks arising from the excavation work and exposure were significant. An unknown defect on the previous repair of the pipeline which contained petroleum under high pressure had the potential to form a flammable cloud extending over several metres from the work area, causing those in the immediate vicinity to potentially be covered in a heavy spray of petrol and engulfed in petrol vapour. If ignition had occurred before the area could be evacuated, then there would have been a very high risk of death or serious injury. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident found that Exolum Pipeline System Ltd failed to properly identify and control the risks associated with carrying out a pipeline repair. Exolum Pipeline System Ltd, of King William Street, London, was found guilty of an offence contrary to Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and an offence contrary to Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 following a trial at Grimsby Crown Court. The company was fined £2.3 million and ordered to pay £157,431 in costs at Grimsby Crown Court on 24 March 2023. HSE inspector Mark Leadbetter said: “This incident had the potential to cause serious injury or death to multiple casualties and could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices. “Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

Pre-let deal sees Maersk establish new centre of excellence at East Midlands logistics park

SEGRO has completed a pre-let deal with Maersk, which will see the Danish shipping and logistics company establish a new centre of excellence at SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway (SLPEMG).
Maersk will occupy a new 685,000 sq ft warehouse, designed specifically for them, which will complete in June 2023. In alignment with SEGRO’s net-zero 2030 and Maersk’s net-zero 2040 commitments, the unit is being constructed to be net-zero for both embodied and operational carbon. It will incorporate a full roof mounted PV array and extensive use of recycled construction materials. Provisions will also be made for the operation of a fully electric fleet of HGV vehicles in the future. The development expands Maersk’s offering of end-to-end logistics in the UK significantly and is the first bespoke pre-let logistics unit that the company will operate in the country.
SLPEMG is SEGRO’s flagship national big box scheme, a 700-acre development that has delivered over 4.5 million sq ft of sustainable logistics workspace. As part of the UK’s only inland freeport, the site incorporates a 50-acre Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI). Maersk selected SLPEMG as the site most capable of delivering operational excellence for their customers’ needs, with its central strategic location and on-site rail freight terminal providing a direct link to the seaports of Felixstowe, London Gateway and Southampton, amongst others, in order to minimise logistics emissions and significantly reduce on-road freight mileage. The benefits afforded to Maersk’s operation by the East Midlands Freeport further helped the case for choosing SLPEMG. SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway started construction in 2017. The site was initially anticipated to be a 10-year programme, however, occupier demand and leasing success has exceeded expectations, as the last big box plot now been leased. Andrew Pilsworth, Managing Director, National Logistics, SEGRO, said: “SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway is especially attractive to customers like Maersk due to the development’s scale, connectivity and our determination to develop to the highest quality and sustainability standards. The extraordinary pace at which we have delivered this scheme illustrates this. “We are very excited to welcome Maersk to SLPEMG and as a new customer to SEGRO. We also welcome the additional employment and economic activity it will bring to the East Midlands, building on the 6,000 jobs already created at SLPEMG.” Paul Woolass, head of Logistics and Services Products UK & Ireland, Maersk, said: “SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway is very much the perfect blueprint for optimising connectivity and flexibility within supply chains. Not only is it ideally positioned in the UK, but the vast infrastructure and cutting-edge technology across the site means operations on UK shores can be done from one place in the most sustainable way possible. It is the epitome of two of Maersk’s key visions for the future: integrating logistics and reaching net-zero emissions by 2040.”

Double deal on Innovate Mews

Ventro Ltd and Hire Giant Ltd are the newest tenants at Innovate Mews, a business park located within minutes of J27 of the M1. The units comprise circa 1,500 sq ft of office accommodation across two floors with designated car parking spaces. FHP have secured both tenants with one deal being an off-market transaction and the other securing the tenant within the second week of marketing. Both occupiers have settled into the units, putting the block of offices at full occupancy again. Amy Howard, surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, said: “With securing an off-market deal I was apprehensive to see if we would get the same result at Unit 1, especially given the level of office stock available within close vicinity to the subject property. It was a great result on both units for my client and I am delighted that both deals have now completed. “The level of enquiries remained strong throughout the duration of Unit 1 being advertised as ‘Under Offer’ so there is certainly demand in the out-of-town business parks within the sub-3,000 sq ft sector. I wish both Hire Giant and Ventro Group all the best in their future endeavours.” FHP’s retained client said: “As a remote landlord I rely totally on FHP to find new commercial tenants and manage my property. Amy Howard managed two lettings for me recently – both negotiated successfully. She is commercial, responsive and gets results.”

Share placing sees Light Science Technologies raise £1.5m

Derbyshire-headquartered Light Science Technologies, the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology and contract electronics manufacturing (CEM) group, has conditionally raised gross proceeds of £1.5 million through the proposed issue of 150,000,000 new ordinary shares. The fundraising consists of the placing of 107,750,000 new ordinary shares as well as a private subscription for 42,250,000 new ordinary shares. Simon Deacon, Chief Executive Officer of the company, has agreed to subscribe for 15,000,000 subscription shares. The company also intends to offer up to 50,000,000 new ordinary shares via the Winterflood Retail Access platform (WRAP) to raise up to £0.5 million gross proceeds, to provide qualifying retail investors in the UK with an opportunity to participate alongside the fundraising. The gross proceeds of the fundraising are expected to be £1.5 million, which will be predominantly used for product development and intellectual property protection within the company’s CEA division, as well as for general working capital purposes, including funding costs associated with the fundraising.

Rolls-Royce announces changes to Board and Executive team

Rolls-Royce is making changes to its Board and Executive Team with several people in new roles. Helen McCabe will be joining the Board of Rolls-Royce later this year as Chief Financial Officer, bringing more than 25 years of experience in senior finance and performance management roles within complex multinational engineering organisations. Current CFO Panos Kakoullis is to stay in post until the end of August. She is currently Senior Vice President, Finance for the Customer & Products division of BP, which runs the company’s customer-focused business which reported EBITDA of $13.7bn last year. The exact date on which she will take up her new executive role and position on the Board of Rolls-Royce will be announced later. Chief Exec Tufan Erginbilgic said: “I look forward to welcoming Helen to my leadership team. Her track record of promoting rigorous financial discipline and experience of delivering performance management to achieve dramatic improvements will be invaluable as we move, at pace, to transform Rolls-Royce.” Rob Watson has been appointed as President – Civil Aerospace with immediate effect. Rob joined the Executive Team last year as President – Rolls-Royce Electrical. He has been with Rolls-Royce for 13 years and previously held leadership positions in Defence aerospace as well as working as Chief of Staff to the Chief Executive. As previously announced, Chris Cholerton is moving from his position as President – Civil Aerospace to become Group President, having successfully led the Civil Aerospace business through some of the greatest challenges in its history. As part of this role, Chris will take on executive responsibility for the Group’s nuclear operations. This includes Rolls-Royce Submarines, and the role of Interim CEO of Rolls-Royce SMR while a search is conducted for a successor to Tom Samson who, it has been agreed, will be leaving with immediate effect. Adam Riddle has been appointed President – Defence, and Chairman & CEO – Rolls-Royce North America with immediate effect. Adam has spent nearly a decade in Defence and played a pivotal role in the recent success of the division in clinching key contracts which will generate multi-year returns. Mr Erginbilgic added: “I would like to congratulate both Rob and Adam as they take up their new roles. Both are highly experienced leaders and will bring renewed energy and a determination to succeed to Civil Aerospace and Defence. Their appointments are also evidence of the pipeline of senior talent which exists within Rolls-Royce. With the leadership changes announced today we are acting at pace and gaining the momentum we need to transform Rolls-Royce. Together, my leadership team has a winning mindset, strong strategic alignment and a shared ambition to make Rolls-Royce a company that delivers for all stakeholders.”

Construction starts on new Lincolnshire business park

Work has commenced on a new business park in Gainsborough, which will bring around 50 new jobs to the area. The new business park, named Wharton Place, is being developed by established Lincoln-based developer and contractor, Stirlin. Once complete, Wharton Place will see the delivery of over 18,500 sq ft of new employment space across 1.3 acres, with a mix of light industrial units in sizes ranging from 1,270 sq ft – 2,500 sq ft, for a variety of business uses. Wharton Place is Stirlin’s third commercial development in the area, following the success of their Stirlin Place and Willoughton Place. The site is located on Foxby Lane, adjacent Lincoln County Council’s Business Centre: Mercury House, with excellent access to major road networks. All ten units on the development will benefit from allocated parking, an electric sectional door, a personnel door and DDA compliant toilet facility, as well as an eaves height of 5 metres to accommodate a mezzanine floor upon request. Howard Griffith, Stirlin’s Head of Construction, says: “We are delighted to commence works on Wharton Place. We’re seeing a continued demand for modern, cost-effective industrial space in the area, which has prompted the commencement. “Our investment in the area is a testament to the town’s growing appeal as a thriving place to live, work and invest in. We are pleased to be able to help facilitate the growing local business base and bring new employment space to the area.” Jamie Thorpe, Chartered Surveyor for Pygott & Crone, says: “It’s very positive to see the development of Wharton Place being brought forward by Stirlin, highlighting the continued confidence in this sector. The Stirlin team have already delivered two very successful schemes in this location and it’s clear that Gainsborough has been needing new modern business space to accommodate demand in the region.”

St. Modwen Logistics reveals £59m second phase of St. Modwen Park Derby

St. Modwen Logistics, the logistics developers and managers and a Blackstone portfolio company, has invested almost £60m to develop an additional c. 350,000 sq ft of new warehouse space at St. Modwen Park Derby.

Due for completion in 2024, this next phase will see St Modwen Logistics and Winvic Construction Ltd deliver a new 147,000 sq ft warehouse which has already been pre-let. Four additional new buildings totalling c. 200,000 sq ft will also be developed to help meet increased occupier demand for mid-sized industrial and logistics units in the East Midlands.

As part of the first phase of development, to date, St. Modwen Logistics has invested more than £45m in delivering over 300,000 sq ft of sustainable warehousing across four units at St. Modwen Park Derby. Completed in December 2022, it has already attracted two international occupiers, with German heat pump manufacturer Vaillant signing for 131,000 sq ft and Swedish medical technology company Getinge establishing a new Global Centre of Excellence for Chemistry at the scheme alongside its new UK headquarters. The quintet of new warehouses will be built to St. Modwen Logistics’ ‘Swan Standard’ for sustainable construction, meaning they will be highly energy efficient and come with an EPC A+ rating, thereby helping customers to reduce their operational costs. All five units will benefit from the installation of rooftop solar panels as standard. Additionally, all five buildings will aim to place in the top 10% of UK new non-domestic buildings for sustainability by targeting an ‘Excellent’ accreditation from BREEAM, the leading real estate sustainability body. In line with the company’s commitment to sustainable development, the Midlands-based company is also strengthening biodiversity at the Park through the creation of a new riverside nature corridor, having already planted 17,000 trees and shrubs as part of the first phase of construction. Located on Wyvern Way – adjacent to the A52 with direct access to the A38, A50 and nearby M1 motorway, and just 13 miles from East Midlands airport – St. Modwen Park Derby is one of the largest regeneration sites in the region and provides strong transport links and access to one of the highest skilled workforces in the country. Robert Richardson, development director at St. Modwen Logistics, said: “Our committed investments in St. Modwen Park Derby now exceeds £100m and our decision to embark on the next phase of development, underlines our confidence in Derby as hub for logistics as well as high-skilled tech and manufacturing. We expect a diversity of demand for the new units and a wide variety of employment opportunities to be generated. “The first phase of construction on the Park was a huge success and we are looking forward to working with Winvic again to deliver this next phase of development.” Ms Amanda Solloway, MP for Derby North, said: “It has been fascinating to see St. Modwen Park taking shape on what was waste ground next to the Wyvern Centre. Last year, I attended the launch event and saw first-hand the huge benefits that it will bring to Derby in terms of job creation and the provision of high-quality warehouse space and the kind of modern, dedicated office space that the city and the wider Midlands needs if it is to grow and prosper. “To see a further £59m invested into the park is therefore amazing news and an example of levelling up at its best!” Paul Simpson, Chief Executive, Derby City Council, said: “This is more great news for the city in what has been a bumper month of major investment announcements, following the decision to make Derby the home of Great British Railways. “In February we also welcomed two industry leaders, Getinge and Vaillant, to St. Modwen Park. Now we can look forward to seeing more in phase two, which will create more jobs and boost our economy further. It’s clear Derby is seen as a fantastic City in which to invest. “It was great to be on site to mark this occasion, and I look forward to seeing more investment in Derby and in the next phase of St. Modwen Park.” Danny Nelson, Winvic’s head of Industrial, Distribution and Logistics, added: “We have built an outstanding relationship with the St Modwen team in delivering the civils and infrastructure package and the four industrial units at Derby – as well assets across other sites – and we’re delighted to have secured the contract for Phase 2. “Sustainability is a fundamental part of both Winvic’s and St Modwen’s DNA and our one-team approach ensures we’re able to help occupiers achieve their own sustainability goals. The team is looking forward to progressing the scheme at pace and we are scheduled to complete all five facilities early in 2024.”

Proposed grants could bring makers and designers to Derby city centre

Grants to convert city-centre properties into studios for artists, makers and designers could be available for landlords and business owners. Derby City Council Cabinet will be asked to formally delegate approval of a grant scheme to help create suitable spaces for those working in the creative industries. The idea has been in development since 2018 when the Council received £350,000 through a business rates pilot scheme towards developing a “Make and Trade Zone” for the city centre but was delayed by the Covid pandemic. The Zone would work in a similar way to the development of Sneinton Market Avenues in Nottingham, which has revitalised a derelict site. Now a hub for independent businesses, it’s aimed at start-ups in the creative and digital sector who must use the units primarily as offices and workshops. Regular and one-off events attract footfall throughout the year. A feasibility study was carried out to test the Derby concept, which completed just as the UK went into lockdown. The research identified that the digital, technical and creative industries needed space, ideally in the city centre, to help build a new creative working population. Along with Marketing Derby, The University of Derby will be a key partner in delivering the scheme, bringing valuable experience of developing and running Banks Mill – a refurbished landmark building on Bridge Street, Derby. Fitted out with 38 studios, it offers business support and stepped rents for graduates and those starting out or recently established within the creative industries. The scheme would be divided into two strands: 1. Grants of up to £50,000 for landlords to convert city centre properties into units suitable for creative industry and maker businesses. 2. Grants of up to £10,000 for creative and maker businesses to fit-out and refurbish their rented studios Catherine Williams, head of regeneration at Derby City Council, said: “Derby has always been a city of innovators and our rich heritage of design and manufacturing speaks for itself. “We are committed to supporting the makers of the future and the continued, long-term cultural vibrancy of the city, “Dedicated studios would allow our maker businesses to benefit from being part of a vibrant, creative community who actively share advice and ideas, as well as inspire each other.”

Developer seeks permission to create homes in former mill building

Plans have been submitted to Derby City Council to transform the dilapidated former Osmaston Works in the city into a development containing more than 100 homes. Mill owners ALB Group want to fully regenerate the site, creating much-needed housing for the area, as well as a three-storey office block.
The imposing mill building, built in the late 19th Century, will be retained and converted into 64 one- and two-bedroom apartments, complete with a ground floor gym area. Meanwhile, the surrounding industrial units will be demolished to make way for two further apartment blocks, six small family homes, an office block and associated parking and cycle stores. It is hoped that once planning approval is received, construction work will begin next year. It is envisaged that the mill apartments will attract young professionals, while the two-bedroom terraced houses at the rear, complete with private gardens, will be aimed at families. Arran Bailey, MD of ALB Group, said: “There are so many sites like this around the UK which represent the nation’s once booming manufacturing might but which have sadly been allowed to fall into disrepair. “For largely commercial reasons, developers are reluctant to take on anything like this, where preservation is as important as construction. But we are determined to breathe new life into these down-trodden areas. “These buildings deserve to be retained due to their character and history, and we are confident that residents and businesses in the area surrounding Osmaston Mill will benefit hugely from our proposal.”