East Midlands Manufacturing Network reaches 150 members a year after launch
The East Midlands Manufacturing Network set up by East Midlands Chamber last March, now has 150 members keen to promote the importance of the manufacturing industry to the wealth and prosperity of the East Midlands.
The network was an initiative that formed part of the UK Community Renewal Fund-backed East Midlands Accelerator project run by the Chamber, although the business representation group always had the intention of continuing its support for the long term.
The Chamber recognised that very often, the challenges manufacturers face can be tackled via collaboration with others and engagement with the right people, through the right channels.
With its connections to Government, local authorities, landowners, the region’s other support agencies and universities, it is well placed to help manufacturers navigate a multitude of issues ranging from planning control to lack of expertise.
East Midlands Chamber deputy chief exec Diane Beresford said: “It’s a challenging time for manufacturers. More than any other sector, they’ve been hit by the meteoric rise in energy costs and raw materials, against a backdrop of recruitment issues.
“The reason the membership continues to grow is because the network offers very real and valuable support, and a safe space to share the concerns of running a manufacturing business at the present time. We’ve already seen several interesting collaborations that have sprung from the network.
“One area which we’re particularly keen to develop is the concept of technology forums. We know that digital technology is an important growth enabler for manufacturers.
“In the spirit of collaborative learning, we’d like to develop a roadshow where network members can host such forums to showcase how they have embraced technology. Sharing best practice and lessons learned in this way is undoubtedly of huge benefit to those members at an earlier stage of the same journey.”
Network meetings are held every six weeks in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, North Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.
Topics to be covered are varied, and set by the membership in that area. They might include an update from Make UK, information on the adoption of Made Smarter in the East Midlands, an outline of Digital Upscaler technology support from the Chamber, or an announcement on the latest tailored manufacturing support on offer from the universities.
Chesterfield arts charity selects new Managing Director
Charity Junction Arts has appointed Emily Bowman, the current Deputy CEO for The Mighty Creatives, as its new MD.
Emily will join the Chesterfield-based charity on April 1st, and will help the team to deliver an ambitious programme of creative events and initiatives throughout 2023. She will lead the charity to deliver its vision, support the Arts Council England’s ‘Let’s Create’ strategy and will be responsible to the Board on all matters of strategy, policy development and management.
Junction Arts has engaged communities across Bolsover District, North East Derbyshire, Chesterfield and rural areas of the East Midlands for over 45 years. Following an uplift in National Portfolio Funding from the Arts Council until 2026, the charity has aspirations for significant growth and is hoping to embark on a number of exciting partnership projects over the next three years.
Emily is currently the Deputy CEO for The Mighty Creatives, a children and young people’s charity based in Leicester and Arts Council England’s Bridge organisation for the East Midlands. She has worked in the creative sector for 20 years and at a senior leadership level since 2015. Through her background and training in performance and her work in arts leadership, she has a deep understanding and passion for arts, culture, and creativity, specifically focused on young audiences, with experience in co-producing high-quality programmes that are accessible to all.
She said: “I am thrilled to be joining Junction Arts. I am excited to be leading such a vibrant and dedicated team and will do all I can to continue to grow and develop the organisation, building on its current success and supporting more people to engage, and creativity to thrive across our communities.”
Lucie Maycock, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Junction Arts said: “Emily has all the right experience, skills, and strategic thinking to take on this exciting role. She is passionate about community arts and making a real difference. Our shared values and her experience working with children, young people and communities, developing programmes that support their cultural, personal and professional development, will enhance our new and existing programmes. Helping to make a real impact and take the organisation to the next level.”
Melton Building Society reopen Mutual House Office after major refurbishment
Melton Building Society are pleased to announce the reopening of their Mutual House offices after undergoing a major transformation.
The building society partnered with local business, Blueprint Interiors, to undertake a full refurbishment of the Melton Mowbray site, resulting in state-of-the-art facilities and an eco-friendlier environment.
The newly refurbished office space is a reflection of Melton Building Society’s commitment to providing its members and colleagues with the best possible experience. The renovation project includes a complete overhaul of the building’s interior, resulting in a modern and spacious workspace that fosters productivity and community collaboration.
Creative and Commercial Director of Blueprint Interiors, Chloe Sproston, commented on the completed project: “Melton Building Society now has a relevant workplace with the tools and spaces they need to deliver their great service. We are also delighted that the response to the finished workplace has been so well received by the team, as they continue to position Melton Building Society as a modern mutual. The delivery stage of the project has been a huge success, thanks to all stakeholders cooperating for the benefit of the joint end goal. We’ve delivered a space that future proofs the Societies operating base by creating a diverse and flexible workspace for its people, as well as creating a valuable asset for their customer communities and local business network.”
To celebrate the reopening, colleagues have been invited back in for a tour of the premises and a demonstration of the new technology and amenities. Blueprint Interiors have created a range of work and meeting spaces designed to improve efficiency and customer service.
Simon Taylor, Chief Executive of Melton Building Society, says, “We are thrilled to reopen our head office and welcome our colleagues back into this fantastic new space. The transformation of the building is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in the project, and we’re confident that the new facilities and technology will enable us to deliver an even better experience for our members.”
The Mutual House office will serve as the hub for Melton Building Society’s operations, offering savings accounts and mortgage solutions, as well as welcoming in members and inviting community groups to use the meeting spaces for educational workshops. Local charities will also be welcome to use the facilities for free to hold fundraisers or meetings.
Robinson invests in two senior sales team members
Specialist packaging manufacturer Robinson has invested in its sales team with two new senior appointments in the UK.
Angela Doyle joins Robinson from Berry Plastics and previously Constantia Group where she worked in the flexibles sector in both the UK and Ireland in commercial sales, primarily in the food and beverage sector. Looking forward to her role as a New Business Development Manager at Robinson, Angela highlighted: “I have a strong technical and commercial skill set, working closely with customers and production on development, problem solving and meeting deadlines. I have always enjoyed being part of a team, leading innovation and out of the box thinking.”
“Robinsons has a really strong collaborative, welcoming culture and I am looking forward to playing my part in the team, creating new business opportunities and building on the strong company foundations”.
Also joining the team as Business Development Manager is Nick Hudson. His background is in UK manufacture and outsourcing of premium packaging across many substrates.
Nick commented: “I am really looking forward to creating awareness of the company’s commitment to sustainable, innovative rigid box packaging and its high standards of quality and service leading to Robinsons being the first choice for customers”.
Nottingham’s planners get access to 3D city map technology
Nottingham has been successful in securing a £375,000 Government grant to modernise the planning application process through the use of 3D technology.
The money, which has come from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, will be spent on enhancing a cutting-edge system to map the city in three dimensions.
The project is part of a national £3.2m scheme through the PropTech Innovation Fund involving 27 local planning authorities. Nottingham will work closely with Bradford Council on this particular pilot.
It will improve the planning process as applicants, planning officers, councillors and the public will be able to view accurate, real-life images of how a proposed development will look within the existing built environment. The main aims are:
- To make it easier for people to engage in the planning process;
- Increase the transparency of decision-making;
- Speed up the time taken from application to formal decision.
Lauren joins CMP Legal as Employment Director
Chesterfield-based CMP Legal has appointed Lauren Pickard as its new Employment Director. Lauren is a specialist Employment Law Solicitor and joins CMP Legal from national law firm Knights plc where she worked as a Senior Associate, previously based in Sheffield. She has a wealth of knowledge and employment law experience from managing performance, disciplinary and grievance matters to redundancy and restructuring advice, delivering training, drafting contracts and more.
Lauren said: “CMP Legal has swiftly established itself as a niche practice offering high quality advice. The lawyers at CMP Legal have a wealth of experience and this, combined with their desire to do things in a dynamic and progressive way, works strongly to the benefit of clients.”
Neil Brown, Co-Founder at CMP Legal says: “Lauren has an excellent reputation in the region and will be a fantastic asset to both our business and our clients. We are delighted to welcome her into our expanding team as we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients.”
Multi award winning Derbyshire Architects celebrates 25 years
Matthew Montague Architects are celebrating 25 years in business. Formed in 1998 by architect Matthew Montague the business has evolved and grown into one of the largest, independent architects’ practices in the region.
The name Montague has long been synonymous with the built environment in Derby and across the Midlands. Derek Montague, Matthew’s father founded Montague Architects in 1969. Matthew worked at his fathers practice for 10 years before starting Matthew Montague Architects (MMA).
Over the past quarter of a century the practice has won over 20 awards for its designs including RIBA regional awards for housing, numerous civic and conservation awards and East Midlands Architects Practice of the Year 2019.
Back in 1998; working from his home office Matthew commenced his first solo commercial project; the refurbishment and extension of Lonsdale House for travel agents, Lonsdale Travel. The project comprised extension and refurbishment, it was at this time that the original mill building was almost doubled in size and the rotunda constructed. In 1998 the building had already been extended, an annexe was built in 1995, designed by Matthew whilst he was working at his father’s practice. The project took a year to complete and was awarded the George Larkin award in the same year for ‘Recognition of a significant improvement to the City of Derby’s Environment.’
Matthew commented, ‘I remember the time vividly, the A6 is one of the main arteries into the city and I wanted to create a visual gateway and Lonsdale Travel wanted a statement building. It was a £450,000 contract which was a healthy budget back then, I remember receiving my first cheque several months into the project, I’ll never forget it and to receive an award was the icing on the cake. Matthew Montague Architects, was off and running!’
In 2002 the practice moved to offices on Friar Gate as it continued to grow, projects in the 2000’s included St Benedicts School, the school Mathew attended, Derby Theatre, Denby Pottery, Derby County Football Clubs World Cup bid, the Clough Taylor Memorial, East Midlands Airport and G F Tomlinson builders HQ in Little Eaton.
In 2011 the practice merged with AFS Architects, the first job for Repton School also commenced in this year. The association with Repton School spans more than a decade, the practice has worked on many projects for the school including The Quad building, IT Block, the Theatre, Headmasters House and new sports facilities.
Matthew said ‘we have been working with Repton School for over a decade; the dining room at Repton Preparatory School (Foremarke as it was) is one of the buildings that I am most proud of. It was designed by my colleague Daniel Evans and is a fantastic example of the synergy between old and new; it is a modern, practical building set perfectly in a historic setting. We are currently working on several other projects for the school as part of their 5-year improvement plan, it is an association I am very proud of.’
The practice relocated to The Cheese Factory in 2013, a building Matthew purchased from the Buildings at Risk Register and painstakingly restored and converted.
2017 was a busy year for the Practice as it merged with Montague Architects once again strengthening the team and in a sense completing the circle which started back in 1969.
The practice emerged from COVID, staff returned to the office and the practice completed 100 domestic projects, in one year, the most it has ever done.
Recently the practice has worked 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 focuses on the development of the area around One Friar Gate Square, Ford Street, Bridge Street, Agard Street and Nuns Street, in Derby.
Matthew, 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 proud to be involved with.”
Roll-Royce appoints new man to join the Board of its Small Modular Reactor business
Rolls-Royce SMR has appointed Neil Fleming, above, as a Director on its board representing Rolls-Royce PLC.
Neil took his place on the board of the Derby-based company, charged with creating Small Modular Reactor technology, to replace Ben Fidler, who resigned from the board after leaving Rolls-Royce.
Neil is the Rolls-Royce Group Mergers & Acquisitions Director, based in London. He leads a team based in the UK and Germany with oversight of all M&A activity (including acquisitions, divestments, and joint ventures) across the Group.
Neil joined Rolls-Royce in October last year with nearly two decades of global experience in M&A, strategy and partnerships across multiple sectors including energy, infrastructure, and industrial technology. Neil has previously served on the board of directors for several companies in the UK and Europe.
Rolls-Royce SMR Chairman Paul Stein said: “I’d like to thank Ben for all his hard work, support and commitment and I wish him the very best of luck as he pursues new opportunities.
“We’re glad to have Neil representing Rolls-Royce on our board; his knowledge and experience will be a vital asset at such an exciting time.”
Neil added: “Rolls-Royce SMR has real potential and is central to the delivery of several of Rolls-Royce’s key objectives including net zero, supply security, UK economic contribution and exports. I’m delighted to be involved and look forward to helping move forward at pace.”
Rolls-Royce signs MoU with Ukraine to pave the way for post-war rebuild
Rolls-Royce SMR has signed an agreement with Energoatom – Ukraine’s national nuclear energy generating company – paving the way for the two companies to work together at the possibilities of deploying Rolls-Royce SMRs in the Ukraine when the country begins its re-build.
In the document Rolls-Royce SMR makes a commitment to support the rebuild of Ukraine with its factory-built Small Modular Reactor power station – each capable of generating enough carbon-free electricity to power a million homes for more than 60 years.
The Rolls-Royce SMR CEO Tom Samson said: “The UK Government has led global efforts to support Ukraine and its people, it is an honour to support these efforts. We first began discussions with a Ukrainian utility company before the Russian invasion, after they saw how their country could benefit from a fleet of SMRs.
“Through Britain’s sovereign nuclear technology, we can potentially help the people of the Ukraine rebuild rapidly and restore their energy security and their independence.”
Petro Kotin, President of Energoatom, said Ukraine was continuing its course towards energy independence, which was impossible to imagine without advanced nuclear technology. He said: “The cooperation between Energoatom and Rolls-Royce SMR has reached a new level. Today we signed an agreement that will allow Ukraine not only to start an efficient post-war recovery of the energy infrastructure, but also to become one of the first countries in the world to attract promising technologies of small modular reactors for this purpose.”
Chance to dream becomes reality – N’hants community garden celebrates lottery funding
A Northamptonshire business centred around a community garden concept that “grows people” is celebrating after receiving a National Lottery award from the National Lottery Community Fund.
“Sol Haven”, run by Sammuel Yisrael and Natasha Caton in Moulton, hosts wellbeing projects, particularly for people who have experienced hardship and has delivered wellbeing events to over 500 people, including many vulnerable and homeless individuals.
Last year, after receiving commendation as “Points of Light” in parliament and a letter from the prime minister for their tireless work and impact, they also began to roll out these “Ploughing The Mind” workshops and projects to SMEs.
This sees employers and employers spending time at the garden with the Sol Haven team and their specialist consultants to work on wellbeing within the workplace.
Now, with the latest funding, Sol Haven will be able to treble the size and scale of their work, which co-founder Sammuel Yisrael will make a significant impact to many more people.
‘It is wonderful news that we have received this incredible support from the National Lottery Community Fund,’ explains Sammuel.
‘The work we do has the power to create and sustain incredibly positive change in people, whether they are signposted to us from health professionals and counsellors or visiting us as part of a corporate wellbeing day. We’d be honoured to welcome enquiries from any businesses that are exploring their wellness strategies and delighted to create a bespoke experience for them.’
‘Of course, this positive change cannot be achieved without a high class team and matching resources, all of which takes time and money. The funding will not only make a big difference to us as a business but to many more people who can hopefully now come and visit us to explore our concept as a “community garden where people grow”.
Prior to the funding announcement, Sol Haven also boosted their Artists in Residence programme which is run in partnership with C2C Social Action and The Hope Centre.
Sarclad employees’ hike raises £2,000 for Turkish earthquake relief funds
More than two dozen employees from specialist metals industry supplier Sarclad have stepped up to the challenge of a 10-mile sponsored hike in the stunning surroundings of the Peak District’s Hope Valley.
Rotherham-based Sarclad has a strong network of customers and contacts in Turkey, and had a team on the ground in the country at the time the earthquake struck, project managed by Alan Breeze.
Alan, who came up with the idea of the sponsored hike, said: “I was very impressed with the Sarcald team who pulled together to support this emergency. We are really delighted to have raised over £2k for the relief campaign so far and would welcome further donations.’’
Former Register Office to be regenerated as home for counselling service
Beighton Construction is overseeing the 14-week refurbishment of the former Chesterfield register office on Beetwell Street for charity Derwent Rural Counselling Service.
The company will carry out roof works, an internal strip out, a new damp proofing system and new electrics.
Inside the refurbishment project will include plastering, internal walls, decoration and floors plus new toilets and a lift with a view to the building opening this summer, and an official launch event in September.
Beighton Construction director Andrew Holmes said: “The works have started externally with scaffold erection, followed by the installation of new perimeter gutters by the roofing team.
“Internally, once the strip out works have taken place, the basement will be prepared for a new damp proofing system and structural alterations will be made to various walls and the first floor in readiness for the new lift.
“New floor screeds and plaster repairs will be carried out through the building, including the construction of new partition walls. Mechanical and electrical works will also run alongside the building works for the duration of the project.”
Final plans for the three storey premises, set to open in summer 2023, include office space, treatment and consulting rooms, meeting rooms and relaxation space to help cope with an increased demand for DRCS services in the area plus tenanted options including rooms and floorspace.
Janette Smeeton, chief executive at DRCS, said: “I am pleased that we are now moving forward on this important scheme that will be the largest building housing talking therapies in the county, and know the people of Chesterfield and beyond will benefit from having high quality facilities in the heart of the town.
“Restoring and reintroducing the building to community use will give it a new purpose, and allow us to deliver a high-quality service to support our service users, and offer room rentals and services to other organisations in the town.”
Over the last 30 years, DRCS has become the largest third sector provider of counselling services in the region offering help to individuals, via self referral or via a GP, with common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress and long term conditions through counselling, CBT, guided self-help, and other forms of talking therapy.
In the last eight years, DRCS has been in partnership with Derbyshire Healthcare Foundation Trust to improve access to psychological therapies throughout Derbyshire achieving above national recovery rates and shorter waiting times.
Pick Everard on the move to Sadler Bridge Studios
independent property, construction, and infrastructure consultancy Pick Everard has moved its Derby operation to Sadler Bridge Studios, part of the Connect Derby portfolio of managed workspaces.
The company is making the move from Kenning Studios on Queen Street to Sadler Bridge Studios as part of a wider national office strategy enabling the business to adopt more agile and collaborative ways of working for its growing 650-plus work force; specifically for its team of 30 based at the Derby Studio.
The Derby office directly supports a range of commissions with important locally based clients including Bowmer + Kirkland, Rolls-Royce, Nottingham Trent University, Leicester Tigers, Derbyshire County Cricket Club and PMI Developments.
Sadler Bridge Studios is located in the heart of Derby’s commercial district, close to shops, bars, and public transport links. The purpose-built workspace was constructed in 2014 and has 35 units in a three-storey modern multi-occupancy office building. SBS also contains RASK, a Scandinavian-style café on the ground floor.
Partner David Nisbet said: “The location of our new home in the heart of the city is perfect for us, and the facilities are ideal for our evolving office portfolio.
“Our aim is to provide outstanding services to our clients and communities, developing our agile and collaborative style of working.
“The team at Connect Derby has been very accommodating and have enabled us to achieve a seamless transition into our new office space.
Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “I’d like to welcome such a long-standing and well-established business as Pick Everard to Sadler Bridge Studios. They are a great addition to the range of creative businesses already based here.
“Sadler Bridge Studios’ city centre location is proving increasingly popular with businesses looking for a flexible and hybrid working environment. We now boast a diverse community of new and established businesses from across the creative industries and the supply chain to the creative industries.”
Sadler Bridge Studios is one of seven buildings within the diverse Connect Derby portfolio alongside Friar Gate Studios, Kings Chambers, Shot Tower, Riverside Chambers and the iconic Marble Hall on Nightingale Road in Osmaston.
Bloc Digital launches US business as base for growth in America
Marketing content and digital solutions specialist Bloc Digital has launched a US business to unlock further opportunities for growth in North America.
The establishment of Bloc Digital Inc comes as the company continues to experience sustained and increasing expansion in the US market, seeing an 80% increase in income within the last year.
This latest milestone in the business’ development is being consolidated with a trade mission to the US, during which Bloc Digital’s co-founders Keith Cox and Chris Hotham will be welcomed by prominent US companies, such as Nordson Corporation and Rolls-Royce Defence America.
The visit is being hosted by the Chamber of Commerce in Mentor, Ohio – a centrally located hub for industrial and manufacturing businesses.
Keith said: “The digital nature of our business gives us a truly global reach and has enabled us to work successfully with American clients for many years.
“Building on our growth and the foundations we laid prior to global Covid disruptions, we are thrilled to establish Bloc Digital Inc and be transitioning from a business with international clients into being an international business ourselves.”
Bloc Digital supports industry through digital solutions and marketing material, with six core disciplines: design, 3D modelling, animation, immersive (VR and AR), development (web and app), and data.
Its technology and services help clients to work smarter, be more connected, and have greater impact on their customers and markets.
Chris said: “We’re looking forward to connecting with several high-profile companies in the US who are already impressed by our portfolio and are excited by the new opportunities and collaborations our trade mission will bring.”
Green light for iconic £6m development at Derbyshire marina despite ‘Government obstacles’.
Plans for a new £6m mixed-use building at the site of the UK’s largest inland marina have been approved despite complaints that Government policy discourages entrepreneurial investment.
South Derbyshire District Council this week approved Mercia Marina’s proposed Promenade building, an iconic glass, stone and timber structure housing 14 apartments above seven ground floor retail units.
The planning application, lodged more than 12 months ago, succeeded due to what the marina’s owner John Thornton describes as ‘foresight’ of the local authority, which recognised the scheme’s £11.9m estimated benefit to the local economy over 10 years and the creation of 43 new jobs.
Yet John, former CEO of Derbyshire-based chocolate manufacturer Thorntons, also criticised recent Government policy and attitudes which, he claims, offer few incentives to regional private investment schemes such the Promenade development.
Construction of the Promenade, which the marina expects to begin in around 12 months, follows the completion of two similar developments on the 77-acre site over the past decade – the Boardwalk and Piazza – which have won national awards for architecture.
The Promenade will replace three existing buildings, one of which was originally a timber fishing hut prior to the marina opening 15 years ago and is now a much-loved tea room that will relocate to the new building.
John, founding partner of Mercia Marina, which sits next to the Trent & Mersey Canal at Willington, Derbyshire, said: “We are delighted this iconic new building has received planning approval from South Derbyshire District Council (SDDC).
“We very much hope and believe that the Promenade, which is in keeping with the style of the existing Piazza and Boardwalk buildings, will, when built, become a heritage asset complementing the Canal Conservation Area.
“It has been a slow and difficult process. But it is thanks to the foresight, support and leadership of South Derbyshire District Council, which realises that the region’s economic, employment and cultural welfare depend upon the encouragement of private investment, that the project has been approved.
“When the economy strengthens, inflation recedes and confidence returns, we look forward to bringing the project to fruition.”
John said that the planning application had succeeded despite, not because of, recent UK Government policy.
“We hope that our national leaders will quickly come to realise that it is only through encouragement rather than the recent destruction of private initiative and investment that our country will be able to create the jobs and wealth needed to provide for the future wellbeing of all,” he said.
“The great wealth and social progress created in this country during the nineteenth century was through private rather than public investment, and the levelling up that everyone wishes to see throughout the nation will only be realised when the conditions necessary to encourage and foster local private initiative and investment are created.”
Mercia Marina has grown from a former fishing lake in a gravel pit to becoming one of the leading leisure and tourism businesses in the East Midlands, attracting around 800,000 visitors annually.
The marina supports more than 300 jobs directly, and many more indirectly. An Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) submitted with the latest planning application estimates that the site contributes £18.8m per year towards the local economy (including £9.1m to the visitor economy), with the Promenade set to add a further £11.9m over the next 10 years.
SMB College Group Awarded 2.7 Million in Funding for Decarbonisation
SMB College Group are delighted to announce that they have successfully secured £2.7million as a part of the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
The funding has specifically been awarded for the College to make positive environmental changes at their Brooksby Campus, their specialist 850-acre land-based and Sport site.
With a focus on the Brooksby Hall area of the estate, the college will be replacing the current oil-fired district heating system, in addition to the introduction of solar power and upgrades to windows.
Dawn Whitemore, Principal & CEO of SMB College Group said of the award: ‘SMB College Group are delighted to have been awarded £2.7m towards the decarbonisation of our Brooksby Hall site, located in the heart of our specialist land-based Brooksby Campus. The project will replace the current oil-fired district heating system with greener air source to water source heat pumps, and will include the replacement distribution pipework, the addition of solar power to feed the new system, and upgrades to building fabric to improve efficiency.
‘This investment is highly important to the College Group as we continue to work towards becoming more sustainable as an organisation. Our 850-acre estate at Brooksby is already benefiting from some excellent sustainability initiatives, spearheaded by our fantastic lecturers and land-based students – including a regenerative agriculture project and a river restoration project – and this funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is an extremely welcome addition to this. Long term investment strategies such as these by our Government will safeguard the future of our college, ensuring that we can continue developing the skilled workforce our country needs.
‘Sustainability is one of six key values which underpins everything that we do here at SMB College Group, and we are excited to utilise this funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to further our developments in this area.’
Eight is great for housebuilder
Regional housebuilder William Davis Homes has secured the industry’s prestigious ‘5 star’ status for the eighth year in row – confirming the company’s reputation for excellence.
Building on previous success, the Loughborough-based company has received another overwhelmingly positive score from its customers.
Based on independent customer satisfaction surveys, the sought-after 5 Star Award is the highest ranking given by the Home Builders Federation. It reflects every aspect of the company, from the outstanding quality of its homes to excellent customer service.
The accolade is only given to companies where more than ninety percent of their customers would recommend them to a friend.
Among the company’s happy customers are Glynis and Kevin Marshall, who are so impressed with the company that they’re now in their second William Davis home.
The couple moved to Prince’s Place at Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, after living in their previous home for 26 years, and would recommend William Davis Homes to other house hunters.
Said Glynis: “Prince’s Place is the perfect location, with lots of amenities within walking distance. There’s the countryside on the doorstep, for walking and cycling, and easy access to Nottingham city centre.
“We have found our William Davis home to be solidly built, well designed with a spacious layout and high-quality fixtures and fittings.
“The sales process and customer service have been excellent, with helpful advice and information being provided throughout the process and any issues being dealt with quickly.”
Guy Higgins, Managing Director of William Davis Homes, said: “We’re proud and delighted to have again received such high praise from our customers.
“Winning this award for an eighth successive year is a fantastic achievement. It shows how our entire team has continued to achieve high standards and first-class service over the past year.”
Bank of England announces interest rate increase to 4.25%
The Bank of England has voted 7-2 to raise interest rates from 4% to 4.25%.
This marks the 11th increase in a row as the BoE struggles to get to grips with the country’s spiraling rate of inflation.
Leicester Enterprise Partnership names new Chief Exec to take post in May
In May Phoebe Dawson will take up the post of Chief Exec of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership.
She is now completing the notice period in her current role of Director of Business Engagement and Partnerships at Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP).
Anil Majithia, LLEP Co-Chair, said: “The Board and I are really looking forward to having Phoebe join us as CEO and she will provide excellent leadership at a critical stage.”
Phoebe said: “I look forward to working with the Board, our partners, and our stakeholders, to build on the strong reputation of the LLEP, and bring further growth and prosperity to this exciting and innovative region.”
Phoebe, who is also a Non-Executive Director at Worcestershire Cricket Board, has been a Director at WLEP since 2019.
She shares responsibility for the strategic and operational delivery, as well as delivering the high-performing Worcestershire Growth Hub team, Inward Investment, and stakeholder engagement.
As part of her current role, she is responsible for both the WLEP Growth Hub and Invest in Worcestershire.
She also works closely with local authorities, the business community and partners including the Midlands Engine and the Department for International Trade.
Prior to starting at WLEP, Phoebe spent two years as Chief Executive of Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), developing its vision and providing strategic leadership, as well as day-to-day operational management.
She led the ballot which secured more than £2 million investment for the city and worked with the city council to develop a new brand for the city, Visit Worcester.
Midlands Net Zero Hub secures £47m in grants for greater energy efficiency
The Midlands Net Zero Hub has secured more than £47m to improve the energy efficiency of up to 4,226 socially owned homes in the region from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Working in partnership with 24 consortia members, made up of 14 housing associations and 10 local authorities, the Hub – which is accountable to Nottingham City Council – used the experience of previous project successes to make a strong case to secure the funding.
The grants will be used to retrofit homes in the region, using a ‘fabric-first’ approach which will see over 15,000 measures such as insulation, draught-proofing and double glazing installed to improve the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of the properties. This approach ensures that renewable technologies, including heat pumps, are more effective.
Nearly £600,000 of the funding will be used for developing digital technologies to support smart building use, for example sensors to monitor the effectiveness of the measures installed. The information collected through these technologies will be used to make improvements to retrofit work in the future as well as identifying issues such as damp and mould within properties and flagging fuel poverty.
Through SHDF Wave 2.1, an estimated 356 jobs will also be supported in the region, which will help to grow the green economy and improve opportunities for those working in the retrofit sector.
As part of the consortium bid, Nottingham City Council secured £2.9m to retrofit 371 social homes in the city. These homes will have cavity wall, external wall and draught-proofing installed, which will result in lower bills for Nottingham City Homes residents and support the city’s ambition to be carbon neutral by 2028.
Councillor Sally Longford, Portfolio Holder for Energy, Environment and Waste Services, said: “It’s fantastic news that the Midlands Net Zero Hub has successfully bid for £47m to improve the energy efficiency of homes in the region. Reducing emissions from the county’s buildings is vital as nearly a quarter of the UK’s carbon footprint comes from heating and powering homes.
“This presents a huge challenge as much of the country’s housing stock was built before the 1990s, so poor insulation and fossil fuel heating is widespread. With energy prices soaring, it is more important than ever that we make sure our homes are fit for the future.”
Michael Gallagher, Head of Midlands Net Zero Hub, said: “I’m delighted that the Hub’s domestic retrofit team has secured more Government funding to help mitigate rising cases of fuel poverty in the region. Not only do schemes like SHDF make homes more comfortable for tenants and reduce energy bills, they also help to minimise carbon emissions from domestic properties.
“We are committed to supporting the country’s target to be net zero by 2050 through the work that we do both across the region and nationally. Through all our domestic retrofit schemes, we aim to deliver improvements to homes at scale while driving down costs to make them accessible to all. This ambitious delivery would not be achievable without the support of our regional delivery partners and highly dedicated consortium members.”
