Tuesday, April 29, 2025

New Hydrogen Propulsion Lab at University of Nottingham gets the go-ahead

Tess Egginton
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New Hydrogen Propulsion Lab at University of Nottingham gets the go-ahead
Planning permission has been granted for the construction of a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion lab on the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus, in partnership with Research England and industry partners. YMD Boon is the architect, lead designer and principal designer (building regulations) for this facility, which will advance research in sustainable transport technologies and play a key role in shaping the future of zero-carbon propulsion. With a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, the team has developed a facility that meets the complex requirements of hydrogen research while prioritising safety and efficiency. Strategically integrated with the adjacent Power Electronics and Machines Centre (PEMC), the Hydrogen Propulsion Lab will provide an advanced environment for high-power propulsion system testing. The lab will feature cutting-edge cryogenic test capabilities, environmental chambers for altitude simulation, and testing areas for gaseous hydrogen, ammonia, and other green fuels. These capabilities will enable the university’s world-leading researchers to push the boundaries of propulsion technology in a controlled and secure setting, supporting industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and power generation in their transition to clean energy solutions. The Hydrogen Propulsion Lab is part of a wider initiative to establish Jubilee Campus as a hub for zero-carbon innovation. In parallel, the university is launching a new Zero Carbon Innovation Centre, funded by East Midlands Freeport, in partnership with Loughborough University. Shari Setayesh, Director of YMD Boon, said: “We are thrilled to be leading the design of this groundbreaking facility, which will drive innovation in sustainable propulsion technologies. “Collaborating closely with the University of Nottingham and key stakeholders, we are creating a space that not only meets the complex demands of hydrogen research but also supports the transition to a cleaner, greener future. We are proud to continue our partnership with the University and look forward to the development of this project.” Professor Chris Gerada, Professor of Electrical Machines and lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham, said: “A new hydrogen lab for the East Midlands is a leap forward in establishing the region’s leadership in zero carbon innovation on the world stage. “It is this region that has the right place, the right people, and the right technologies that industries need to achieve their decarbonisation ambitions.” Construction of the Hydrogen Propulsion Lab is set to be completed by mid-2026. The facility is designed in collaboration with Turner and Townsend, GF Tomlinson, CPW, Derry Building Services, and Price & Myers.

Calls for Government to take a lead in strengthening cyber security

Stuart Pearcey
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Calls for Government to take a lead in strengthening cyber security
The British Chambers of Commerce is warning that businesses face increased cyber security risks without stronger engagement with government. In a new report published today, the BCC is calling for ministers to:
  • Carry out a cyber security awareness programme for businesses, particularly smaller firms
  • Update the National Cyber Strategy
  • Reform cyber security insurance to provide firms with better protection
  • Address the shortage of UK cyber security professionals and support more training in all workplaces
  • Engage directly with businesses to strengthen confidence in the UK’s digital infrastructure
The report has been produced by the BCC’s Digital Revolution Challenge Group, drawing on expertise from businesses of all sizes and sectors, academia and think-tanks. It advises that the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, due this year, must be developed in full consultation with businesses. This is to avoid creating ‘an unnecessary burden for businesses’ and to ensure that firms are ‘actively incentivised to report cyber breaches or attacks’. This will then support the Government’s growth agenda by strengthening cyber resilience. Changes to working environments have created more IT challenges for businesses. BCC research has revealed more than half of firms believed working from home left their computer systems more exposed. The report highlights an urgent need to tackle the current shortage of cyber security professionals, and the digital safety skills gap facing over half a million businesses. Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the BCC said:  “Cyber threats against businesses are growing, and without coordinated action many SMEs will remain at risk. Our report outlines some immediate actions for ministers to engage directly with firms. “There’s a lack of specialist digital security knowledge in many smaller companies.  Government needs to take the lead and proactively engage with business to raise awareness. “Businesses are keen to see the detail of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill in the coming months. The legislation must send a signal of confidence to the UK’s SMEs and not create unnecessary costs and reporting burdens. “Cyber resilience isn’t just about protection; it’s about trust, innovation, and supporting the long-term growth of businesses.”

Transformation of former bus depot into new neighbourhood gets funding boost

Tess Egginton
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Transformation of former bus depot into new neighbourhood gets funding boost
Proposals to transform a vacant former bus depot into a vibrant new neighbourhood are set to take a step forward as West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is awarded vital funding to deliver the regeneration scheme. WNC has been awarded £1.37m from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund to develop Northampton’s St James Depot, a project which would provide more than 70 homes. West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet will meet on 11 February to discuss the next phase of plans to breathe new life into this vacant site. Built in the early 1900s, the 4.5 acre site was the home of Northampton’s tram and bus depot until its closure in 2013. Church’s bought the depot a year later so it could expand its operations, but it remained vacant and was bought by the Council in November 2023. The Council has identified a need for quality housing in the area, but developing this site poses a range of challenges. Asbestos and ground contamination, the flooding risk, and structural deterioration all need to be tackled before construction work can start, while any development must also retain the Grade II listed Transport Office, built in the 1930s. The funding requirements as part of the Brownfield Release Fund outline that the contract for these remedial works must be in place by 31 March. Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “This redevelopment is a fantastic opportunity to transform a gateway site into Northampton Town Centre and it will complement the wider regeneration of our town. “By revitalising the St James Depot site, we are not only preserving the historical significance of the Transport Office but also creating much-needed housing and boosting the local economy. We are committed to overcoming the challenges and delivering a project that benefits our residents and the wider community.” If cabinet approve the proposals, the next steps will include:
  • Transport Offices: The Grade II listed building will undergo a light strip out of fixtures and fittings, with asbestos removal where it does not impact listed features.
  • Original Section of Tram Depot: The front and rear facades of the original building will be retained. Works will include an internal strip out and asbestos removal. Roof coverings will be removed, but the roof structure and internal walls will remain to support the facades. 
  • Bus Depot Extension: The mid to late 20th-century extension will be demolished. Hoarding will be reinstated to secure the site post-demolition.

Three banned for misleading investors over Derby development

Stuart Pearcey
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Three banned for misleading investors over Derby development
Three people have been banned as company directors after they misled investors who paid more than £4m into a Derby city centre student accommodation development. Fraser MacDonald was a director of Prosperity Cathedral View Development Ltd which was behind The Croft development on Cathedral Road before the company went into administration in 2020. The 53-year-old was also a director of Prosperity Cathedral View NMPI Ltd, a company used as a fundraising vehicle to attract investors for the development. In his role as Investor Relations Director, MacDonald allowed 42 investors to be misled when they entered into loan agreements with Prosperity Cathedral View NMPI worth a combined £4.13 million. They thought their money would go into the Derby development, but instead more than £2 million was transferred to a connected company. MacDonald, of Walkdale Brow, Glossop, Derbyshire, has been disqualified as a company director for seven years, until February 2032. The companies’ Chief Exec Gavin Barry, 49, and COO Edward Fowkes, 52, were both also disqualified as directors in 2021 for their roles in causing or allowing the investors to be misled in 2019. Ann Oliver, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: “Fraser MacDonald, Gavin Barry and Edward Fowkes allowed the continued promotion of an investment offer which was misleading to investors. “Significant sums of money were invested by people who thought they had more security over their investments than they actually did. “We also uncovered evidence that the three directors did not use all the funds borrowed for financing the development at The Croft development as they had promised.”

MacDonald has now been removed from the corporate arena until January 2032 and joins Barry and Fowkes in being barred from running, managing or promoting a company without permission of the court.

A total of 44 investments were made by 42 high net worth investors in the Derby scheme between January and July 2019. The highest individual investment during that period was £504,000.

US giant acquires Lincolnshire PPE manufacturer

Tess Egginton
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US giant acquires Lincolnshire PPE manufacturer
Goldfreeze Limited, the manufacturers of Chill, Cold and Freezer PPE, based in Sleaford, Lincolnshire and founded by Tarek Hayat, has been acquired by US giant RefrigiWear for an undisclosed sum rumoured to be in the region of £3-4 million. RefrigiWear, established in 1954, has 70 years of commitment to designing warm industrial apparel, with an understanding of the challenges faced by working in the extreme cold. RefrigiWear entered the UK market in Q1 of 2024 determined to “become the trusted and go-to supplier for Thermal Protective Clothing globally,” raising a share capital of in excess of £13 million before acquiring FlexiTog (Goldfreeze’s largest competitor) in March 2024. Having acquired FlexiTog and Goldfreeze, RefrigiWear has become a powerful force in the UK cold chain industry’s PPE supply chain. RefrigiWear CEO Ryan Silberman now sits on the board of Goldfreeze.

Nottingham Venues celebrates success at the Nottingham Hospitality Association Awards 2025

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham Venues celebrates success at the Nottingham Hospitality Association Awards 2025
Nottingham Venues, the collection of independent venues specialising in meetings and events set within the University of Nottingham campus, is celebrating success in three categories at the Nottingham Hospitality Association Awards 2025. The event, held on Thursday 23 January 2025, recognised excellence across the local hospitality sector, with Nottingham Venues’ dedicated team receiving well-earned accolades. The company entered five categories and either won, or was placed, in three. Among the evening’s highlights was the remarkable victory of Sing Ding Yu and her Operations Team at The East Midlands Conference Centre, who were awarded the prestigious Top Team Award. The team’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, developing a strong team culture and contributing to record-breaking sales earned them the award. Tom Waldron-Lynch, CEO of Nottingham Venues, said: “The Operations Team are true advocates of our business, always striving to deliver excellent customer service in our mission to be the best meetings and events business. They exemplify our core values – inclusive, ambitious, fair, open and respect and have contributed to record sales and exceptional team engagement.” In addition to success for the Operations Team, individual team members were also recognised for their hard work and contribution to the success of the business. Lassad Jaballah was named runner-up in the Unsung Hero Award category, honouring his invaluable behind-the-scenes efforts that keep operations running seamlessly. Bozena Juszko secured third place in the Back of House Customer Service Award, a testament to her consistent dedication to delivering excellence. Peter Bartlett, General Manager of Nottingham Venues’ Orchard Hotel and East Midlands Conference Centre, added: “These accolades are a reflection of the talent, hard work, and passion that drive Nottingham Venues forward every day. The company extends its congratulations to all nominees and winners, and thanks to every team member who plays a role in Nottingham Venues’ ongoing success.”

Vistry Group completes contracts on 475-home site in Hinckley

Tess Egginton
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Vistry Group completes contracts on 475-home site in Hinckley
Vistry Group, the provider of affordable mixed-tenure homes, has completed contracts for a major site in Hinckley, Leicestershire, with outline planning permission to deliver 475 new homes for the area. The site, to the east of Stoke Road and north of Normandy Way, in the north of the town, has a development value of £140m. Of the new homes being delivered, approximately 30% will be affordable, 20% will be developed for the private rented sector, and 50% will be for sale on the open market through a combination of its retail brands Bovis Homes, Linden Homes and Countryside Homes. All the houses will be constructed using modern methods of construction, with timber frame panels produced at the local Vistry Works factory in Bardon, Leicestershire. This will improve the sustainability and speed of the construction process, as well as reducing disruption for the local community. Each home built using these panels emits 14,460kg CO2e less than a traditional brick-and-block house. Andy Reynolds, Managing Director of Vistry South East Midlands, said: “Completing the purchase of this high-quality site is hugely exciting as it is destined to become Vistry’s flagship development in Leicestershire, providing 475 mixed-tenure homes for the area. “With a significant shortage of supply in the area, the acquisition of this site is a major milestone in bringing forward a new mixed-tenure development that will provide modern, well-connected homes catering to people with a wide range of requirements and at various stages of life.”

Lincoln industrial engineers place business in hands of employees

Tess Egginton
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Lincoln industrial engineers place business in hands of employees

Lincoln industrial engineers Castlet Holdings Ltd, who list Siemens, Tata Steel and BAE Systems among their customers, have placed their company’s future in the hands of the employees. On the advice of Sills & Betteridge Corporate Partner Euan McLaughlin, Castlet Holdings Ltd has been sold to an Employee Ownership Trust. Having provided remedial advice on various shareholder issues in the past, Euan proposed to the Board that an EOT was the key to the long-term stability and success of the business – which was already owned by a group of its employees. Euan collaborated with other professionals, including business consultants Mobius Group and regional accountancy practice Wright Vigar, to flesh out the terms of the deal and undertake shareholder engagement. Euan said: “EOTs are a relatively new phenomena which are fast gaining traction as their benefits become more widely understood – tax advantages, succession planning and social responsibility among the key motivators. “They are most suited to business owners who value the future of their company and the people who helped to build it, over an immediate cash sale – and can be an excellent option where a trade sale is either unavailable or unattractive to business owners.”

Pets become part of the climate change solution as Nottingham dog food company embraces solar power

Tess Egginton
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Pets become part of the climate change solution as Nottingham dog food company embraces solar power
The UK’s dogs are now part of the climate change solution, thanks to Nottingham-based fresh dog food company Years.com, which has partnered with solar developer Electron Green and commercial landlord Urban Logistics to harness solar power for its operations. The new rooftop solar installation is projected to reduce Years.com’s reliance on the electricity grid by over 26%, delivering projected electricity savings of almost £22,000 in its first year alone. Darren Beale, founder of Years.com, said: “At Years.com, our mission is to help dogs live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Protecting our environment is part of that bigger picture, and we are thrilled to have solar power in place. “We had been considering this for some time, but with competing business priorities, it always seemed out of reach. Thanks to Electron Green and our landlord Urban Logistics, the solar system is free and we pay for the green electricity we use.” The solar panels were installed in January 2025, covering 761 square metres of rooftop space with 390 panels. The entire installation was funded by landlord Urban Logistics, with Years.com purchasing the clean electricity it generates. The solar energy will feed directly into the Years facility, effectively powering the steam cooking process, which accounts for approximately 26% of the company’s total power demand. Because the solar is on the roof of Years.com, the supply has guaranteed provenance and is not subject to transmission losses associated with renewable electricity fed through the grid. Daniel Green, CEO and Co-Founder of Electron Green, said: “British businesses consistently tell us they need greater certainty over their future energy costs, alongside practical, off-the-shelf solar solutions that reduce emissions. The Years.com and Urban Logistics partnership is a great example of taking decisive action, benefitting both businesses as well as the environment. “We’re here to provide businesses with flexibility on how they manage and pay for electricity. With energy demands expected to rise by 50% over the next decade, businesses need confidence in their energy supply and greater control over their costs.” Richard Moffitt, Director of Urban Logistics REIT, said: “This is an excellent example of strong asset management from Urban Logistics, working in partnership with our tenant to deliver a sustainable, cost effective solution that is easily replicable and to the benefit of all stakeholders.”

Global investment manager acquires East Midlands solar project

Tess Egginton
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Global investment manager acquires East Midlands solar project
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, a specialist global investment manager, has acquired the 350 MW solar PV project, Mallard Pass in the East Midlands. The project, located on the Rutland-Lincolnshire border, represents Quinbrook’s second nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP) after Cleve Hill Solar, which is in final stages of construction. Construction of Mallard Pass is expected to begin in 2026 with commencement of operations in 2028. Keith Gains, Managing Director and Regional Leader UK for Quinbrook, said: “Renewable power projects of the scale of Cleve Hill and Mallard Pass help accelerate the UK’s energy transition and decarbonisation along with enhanced resilience of energy supply. “Mallard Pass represents another value-add investment opportunity for Quinbrook in large scale solar. Quinbrook plans to leverage our extensive global experience in large-scale renewables development, construction and operations to bring high-quality solar technology and innovation to Mallard Pass including its demand-side capacity potential.” Preliminary analysis indicates that over the project’s anticipated lifetime, Mallard Pass could support more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs and generate upwards of £124 million in local socio-economic contributions. Mallard Pass is estimated to produce over 14 million MWh of renewable power over its lifespan and reduce CO2 emissions by 665,000 tonnes, equivalent to CO2 emissions from 738,691,906 pounds of coal burned. Quinbrook also aims to deliver a 71% biodiversity net gain at Mallard Pass, combining natural capital enhancement and creation initiatives and leveraging its experience from implementing 67% biodiversity net gain at Cleve Hill. “Solar projects of this scale play an important role in the decarbonisation of the UK grid and our country’s energy security,” said Rosalind Smith-Maxwell, Director for Quinbrook. “The investment in Mallard Pass is another excellent example of Quinbrook’s focus on holistic and impactful investment in the infrastructure needed to advance the energy transition.” Quinbrook and affiliate, Private Energy Partners, will now proceed with detailed design, procurement and construction planning.

Derby’s £45.8m Becketwell Live venue reaches practical completion

Tess Egginton
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Derby’s £45.8m Becketwell Live venue reaches practical completion
The £45.8 million Becketwell Live has reached practical completion with developers St James Securities delivering the venue on time and on budget. Derbyshire-based construction firm Bowmer + Kirkland recently completed the final stages of construction on the entertainment venue ahead of its opening this Spring. The venue has now been handed over to owners Derby City Council and operators Legends and ASM Global. Becketwell Live is set to become a hub of entertainment, attracting audiences from across the region and beyond. Built on the site of the former Pink Coconut nightclub on Colyear Street, the new venue will significantly enhance Derby’s cultural offering, with a larger, more flexible space than the city centre has had in the past. Set to attract an additional 250,000 visitors to Derby each year and generate more than £10m GVA per year for the area, the flexible venue will bring diverse events to Derby, drive the night-time economy and increase levels of investment in surrounding areas of the city centre. With a capacity of 3,500, made up of a flexible combination of floor seating, retractable bleacher seating and fixed upper tier seats, the venue can host a range of events from concerts, stand-up comedy, and exhibitions, to business events. The venue will boast state of the art acoustics, all of which have gone through thorough sound testing for all types of events. The purpose-built, state-of-the-art back of house spaces have been designed in such a way to ensure smooth transitions from one type of event to another. Plus, there is an array of General Admission and premium space for guests to enjoy. The Becketwell regeneration scheme is being delivered by Leeds-based property developers St James Securities, who have a track record of delivering successful major regeneration schemes. In February 2022, Peveril Securities, the development arm of the Bowmer + Kirkland Group, agreed to become funding and development partners for future phases of the Becketwell scheme. Becketwell Live forms the second phase of the £200m scheme, which is the most significant urban rejuvenation project in the city for more than three decades. Phase one includes The Condor, the city’s first purpose-built Build to Rent scheme, owned and operated by Grainger plc and Springwell Square, and a new public green space for the city. Commenting on practical completion of the arena, Paul Morris, Development Director at St James Securities, said: “The completion of Becketwell Live marks a transformative moment for Derby, delivering a world-class venue that will and drive significant economic growth and serve as a catalyst for the city’s future regeneration. “This project has been more than five years in the making, and we are immensely proud to have developed a venue that will attract top-tier events and enhance the city’s cultural vibrancy, enriching the lives of its residents.” Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Culture, said: “This is a huge leap forward in the Becketwell journey, bringing us much closer to realising our vision of transforming Derby into vibrant city centre that prioritises and celebrates culture. “A huge thanks to all of our partners and everyone involved for their incredible work on this project. This has been a long time in the making and I’m very proud that we’ve been able to support our partners to reach practical completion on time and on budget. “Becketwell Live will provide a significant boost to our city’s cultural sector and economy and we can’t wait to open the doors to the public this Spring.” Marcus Sheehan, General Manager of Becketwell Live, said: “This is yet another exciting milestone as we move closer to opening the doors of Becketwell Live. Thanks to the brilliant teams who have done an incredible job in bringing this venue to life, ready to bring the very best in live entertainment to the heart of Derby.” Gus Kedzior, Bowmer + Kirkland’s Regional Director for North Midlands & Yorkshire, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been appointed to build this amazing landmark venue in Derby. Our site team has done a great job in ensuring this project has been handed over on time, within budget, and we are thrilled with the final outcome. “It really has been a team effort throughout, and a pleasure to work collaboratively with St James Securities, Legends and ASM Global, and Derby City Council. Becketwell Live will now become the third scheme we have completed for DCC, joining Moorways Sports Village and Derby Arena. “It is also worth noting the additional social value that a building of this scale creates for the local area, bringing jobs, apprenticeship opportunities and income. We are proud to have played a vital role in helping to rejuvenate this area of the city and are looking forward to seeing its doors open to the public in the spring.” Ralph Jones, Managing Director of Peveril Securities and main Board Director of Bowmer + Kirkland, added: “Peveril Securities and St James Securities both share the same ambition for Derby city centre, and we are proud to have worked together to deliver such a transformational scheme. “We are delighted to have brought our financial strength, development and construction expertise to this exciting project, which is local to Peveril Securities.”

Staffline hails “outstanding” 2024 performance

Tess Egginton
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Staffline hails “outstanding” 2024 performance
Staffline, the Nottingham-based recruitment and training group, has hailed an “outstanding” 2024 performance in a trading update for the year ended 31 December. Revenue passed £1bn at the firm, seeing a 12.8% increase on 2023, which Staffline said reflected “market share gains, and strength of Staffline’s business model despite a challenging market for recruitment and training.” Gross profit increased by 9% to £88.1m, “driven by a strong performance across the Group’s recruitment activities and underpinned by an excellent result in permanent placement fees from new customers.” Meanwhile, underlying operating profit saw a 7.8% increase to £11.1m, with stronger performance from Recruitment GB and Recruitment Ireland offsetting a weaker performance from PeoplePlus, and underlying pre-tax profit exceeded market expectations, “notwithstanding the impact of the slower than expected reduction in interest rates, which partially offset the strong underlying operating profit performance.” Looking to 2025, Staffline believes its performance will be impacted by ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty. Albert Ellis, Chief Executive Officer of Staffline, said: “The Group delivered an outstanding operational and financial performance in 2024, driven by increased market share and new customers combined with a disciplined approach to costs. “The traditional peak trading period in the run up to Christmas was a success due to the Company’s commitment to service excellence. Strong trading cash flow exceeded expectations, underpinning the share buy-back programme, and resulted in £9.7m of net cash (pre-IFRS16) at the end of the year. “Staffline remains a trusted strategic partner across a number of key sectors, both in the UK and Ireland, and I am confident that despite the challenging backdrop, our track record in continuing to increase market share will continue to support growth in 2025.”

Housebuilder acquires land for 45 new homes in Cotgrave

Tess Egginton
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Housebuilder acquires land for 45 new homes in Cotgrave
Housebuilder Allison Homes’ newly established East Midlands region has secured its first site in Nottinghamshire, bringing new homes to the town of Cotgrave. The upcoming, 3.8-acre development is located off Hollygate Lane and will provide a total of 45 new energy efficient properties, which will be installed with air source heat pumps. Alongside delivering new homes, Allison Homes East Midlands will be making section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions worth over £650,000 to support Cotgrave’s highways, bus services, play areas, education services and waste management. The housebuilder will be submitting a reserved matters planning application following pre-application advice, and subject to approval construction work is due to commence later in 2025. This scheme will be Allison Homes East Midlands’ fifth site overall and first in Nottinghamshire. Karl Edwards, Operations Director at Allison Homes East Midlands, said: “We are incredibly proud to have acquired our first site in Nottinghamshire, and are looking forward to establishing ourselves in the county. “This new development will deliver 45 high-quality homes, community benefits and a host of new employment and training opportunities for local people, as well as help boost the local economy.”

Phenna Group acquires environmental consulting services firm

Tess Egginton
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Phenna Group acquires environmental consulting services firm
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies, has acquired STM Environmental. This acquisition is the firm’s second deal in 2025 and adds service and geographic extension to its Infrastructure division. Established in 2004, STM Environmental is based in Twickenham, London and provides a diversified offering of environmental consulting services to the public and private sector. This is predominantly focussed on the supply of geo-environmental and flood risk & drainage services and complemented with the development and supply of environmental data management systems to Local Authorities. Simon Makoni, Director of STM Environmental Consultants, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition: “We’re thrilled that the Phenna Group has recognised our hard work, success, and potential. “Selecting the right partner to aid our ambitious growth plans was a big decision for myself and the STM Environmental team, but from our first engagement with Phenna, we felt confident that we’d found the right partner. I am excited to collaborate with Stuart and his team as we embark on the next phase of growth.” Stuart Abbs, Divisional MD, Infrastructure at Phenna Group, said: “I am very excited to welcome Simon and his team to Phenna Group. “STM Environmental have an excellent reputation in delivering top-tier environmental services for private and public sector clients and their capability perfectly complements our existing capabilities. I am excited to see the STM Environmental team deliver on their exciting growth plans.” Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, added: “I am delighted that Simon and his team have decided to join our Group and warmly welcome them to our team. “STM Environmental is a market leader in the environmental consulting space and this acquisition boosts our current service offering within the Infrastructure division. I look forward to seeing Simon and his team excel within Phenna.” Phenna Group were advised by RSM UK and Browne Jacobson. STM Environmental were advised by Oaklins and Hemingways.

New head of traffic and transportation at BSP Consulting

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New head of traffic and transportation at BSP Consulting
Jason Davenport has been promoted to director of traffic and transportation at East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting. He takes over from one of the founding directors of BSP Consulting, Mark Rayers, who is stepping back to become a part-time consultant to the business. Jason, who was previously associate director of transportation at BSP Consulting, joined the company as a transport engineer just a month after it was founded in 1999 and has been a key member of the team ever since. His expertise includes transport planning, travel plans, transport assessment, access strategy, noise assessments and safety audits. Jason’s experience ranges across all sectors, having worked on schemes at airports and universities through to supermarkets and housing developments. BSP MD Carl Hilton said: “We are very pleased to announce the promotion of Jason Davenport to director of traffic and transportation at BSP Consulting. “Our ethos is to promote from within wherever possible, which provides our team with opportunities to progress their careers and also enables smooth succession planning for the business. “Jason has been a loyal, experienced, and valued part of the team at BSP right from the start and his promotion is very well deserved. “As one of the founding directors of BSP Consulting, Mark has played a pivotal role in the success of BSP – helping the company to grow to become one of the largest independent civil and structural engineering businesses in the East Midlands. “We are very pleased that he is staying with us as a part-time consultant and continuing to support the extensive network of clients that we have built up since the business began more than 25 years ago.” Throughout his time at BSP, Jason has held positions as transport engineer, senior transport engineer, associate and associate director. His appointment as director of traffic and transportation began on 1st February 2025. He said: “Under Mark Rayers, the traffic and transportation department at BSP Consulting has earned an excellent reputation as a professional and skilled team that provides outstanding service to clients. “I have worked with Mark for 28 years in total, having met him before he became a founding director at BSP, and I am proud to have been appointed to head up the team going forward and to continue the good work that BSP has become renowned for.” Jason, who lives in Gedling, Nottingham, is based in BSP’s head office in Nottingham but heads up the traffic and transportation team across the group. Mark Rayers is one of the original four founders of BSP Consulting, which was launched in Oxford Street, Nottingham in 1999. The company has since expanded with offices in Pride Park, Derby and De Montfort Street, Leicester, as well as an office in South Yorkshire, on Smithy Wood Crescent, Sheffield. He has stepped down in his role as a director but will remain a part-time consultant to BSP Consulting, working one day a week.

Clowes Developments adds to Board of Directors

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Clowes Developments adds to Board of Directors
Kevin McFarlane has been appointed as a member of Clowes Developments’ Board of Directors. Kevin started his career at Clowes as a trainee in 2007. After initially leaving to widen his experience elsewhere, Kevin re-joined the Group in 2017. Since 2020, he has led the company’s Asset Management department based at Ednaston Park, overseeing the day to day and strategic management of the Group’s diverse land and property portfolio, with responsibility for identifying and maximising opportunities, whilst minimising exposure to risk. Commenting on his promotion, Kevin McFarlane said: “I feel honoured to join the Board of Directors. “Having worked for the company for nearly a decade, I realise that opportunities such as this don’t come around too often, and I am extremely grateful for the trust that David, Tom and the other Board Directors have placed in me. “I am excited about what the future holds, and I will endeavour to make a positive contribution as the business continues to evolve and move forward.” Managing Director of Clowes Developments, Thomas Clowes added: “This is my first appointment to the Board in my role as Managing Director and I couldn’t think of anyone better. “Brass tacks, Kevin has been responsible for effectively half the group’s value and without him and his team the business simply couldn’t function the way it does. I’m looking forward to seeing Kevin push on in his new role and enhancing this critical element of the business.”

Shirebrook business expands into Council unit

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Shirebrook business expands into Council unit
Bolsover District Council has agreed to lease one of its business units on Vernon Street in Shirebrook to a neighbouring business.
Since purchasing their premises 10-years ago, Gladiator Storage Group Limited have grown sufficiently to need new premises so that they can expand. This unit presents an opportunity to grow their operation without the need to relocate, disrupt staffing, and incur significant relocation costs. The business approached the council to see if they could lease the unit and it was agreed that a ten-year lease would be issued, with a 12-month rent free period, to help offset some of the improvement works the company needs to do, which are essential for their business operations. Cabinet Member for Growth, Councillor John Ritchie said: “Growth is one of our key ambitions, so the more we can do to help local businesses the better. Bringing this unit back into use will help Gladiator Storage Group Limited expand and grow and provide their workforce with a bright and secure future.” The unit’s previous occupant left the building in September 2022 and it has since then been empty, attracting anti-social behaviour to the site.

£1.1m grant secures new lab for Loughborough

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£1.1m grant secures new lab for Loughborough

The Wolfson Foundation has awarded a grant of £1.1 million to Loughborough University to set up the Wolfson X-Lab Extreme.

The new lab will house the Gleeble 3800. Its creation will establish the University and East Midlands as a hub for hydrogen productivity and manufacturing of materials under extreme conditions.

The Gleeble 3800 with its unique enhancements is a specialist piece of equipment worth over £1.6 million. This particular Gleeble will be a specialist piece of equipment and the first of its kind in the UK and Europe, putting the University at the forefront of materials engineering research. It will have specific attachments for cryogenic quenching, ultra-high sustained temperature testing, and laser ultrasonics.   The Wolfson X-Lab Extreme will be a crucial step for a sustainable hydrogen economy in the UK. The procurement of this testing equipment will help accelerate and spearhead UK research in this sector, including materials development for hydrogen storage, distribution and transport.  The new facility will directly address current limitations and bridge knowledge gaps. The equipment will enable the observation of materials and their behaviour at the smallest of scales in-situ in real-time when subjected to extremes long-term.  Materials testing for designing, manufacturing and maintaining new and existing hydrogen storage, distribution and end-use application infrastructure is essential to achieving the UK’s vision and ambitious net zero targets. The Gleeble will help the University to do just that.   The demands of liquid and gas hydrogen mean storage material must be ultra-light, able to sustain very high pressures, be leak-free, have high structural integrity, and withstand extremes of temperature. Understanding the long-term reliability of materials in these settings is imperative, particularly for components in fuel cells, hydrogen internal combustion engines, pipelines, valves, compressors, and pumps.  Professor Anish Roy from the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering (MEME), and Professor Karen Coopman from the School of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering (AACME), are both Associate Deans for Research and Innovation and co-project leads for the new facility.   In a joint comment, Professors Roy and Coopman said: “Thanks to the foundation’s support, the establishment of the Wolfson X-Lab Extreme will be a great opportunity that builds on our longstanding expertise in materials science research including characterisation, computational modelling, design and component manufacture across our Schools.   “It will enable much needed materials discovery and research to support next generation hydrogen storage and distribution solutions, research in space science, fusion materials and cryogenics. We welcome participation from wider academic, industrial collaborators and research organisations to help drive research and innovation globally.”  Moving forward with the inception of the Wolfson X-Lab Extreme, their work will ensure the activities and opportunities emanating from the use of the new facility are maximised through academic partners and industry, leading to tangible societal benefit.   The new lab will be open within the Wolfson School of MEME to external collaborators through a booking process online, enabling access for students, researchers, and scientists across academia and industry, while promoting unique skillsets in the next generation of engineers.   Professor Dan Parsons, the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, recognises how this new facility will play a pivotal role in the advancement of Loughborough’s clean energy research. He added: “I am delighted to welcome the announcement of the Wolfson X-Lab Extreme facility, made possible through the Wolfson Foundation’s generous grant.   “This lab is not only a game-changer for clean energy research but also a testament to Loughborough’s commitment to addressing global challenges through innovation. It will foster collaboration across academia and industry, inspire the next generation of engineers, and solidify our reputation as a hub for world-leading materials research. “We are deeply grateful to the Wolfson Foundation for their continued support and vision in enabling transformational research with real societal impact.”  In addition to research around hydrogen, the lab will aid university ambitions to contribute to Fusion Energy Engineering in the UK. The facility can simulate the physical response of fusion materials at extremes of thermos-mechanical loading, generating valuable experimental data which will feed into constitutive models for advanced reactor design and manufacturing.   The cryogenic module in the Gleeble will also help in designing components for space applications, such as in rocket tank design to store liquid hydrogen, ensuring it is lightweight, robust and reusable.  The Wolfson Foundation has supported the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering (MEME) at Loughborough University for 25 years. During that time, there has been important research in Manufacturing Engineering, Sports Technology, and Renewable Energy Engineering.  The Wolfson Foundation is an independent charity with a focus on research and education. Its aim is to support civil society by investing in excellent projects in science, health, heritage, humanities and the arts.  Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation, said: “The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering at Loughborough is leading the way in developing and testing new materials that can withstand extremes of temperature and pressure. “These materials will have a crucial role to play in accelerating the transition towards low-carbon energy and transport systems. We are delighted to help the University to acquire specialist equipment for the Wolfson X-Lab Extreme to support their research.”   The Wolfson X-Lab Extreme is set to open in late 2025 for testing in early 2026.

Nottingham Venues welcomes new Head Chef at Bramleys

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham Venues welcomes new Head Chef at Bramleys
Nottingham Venues has appointed David Cartwright as Head Chef at its Bramleys restaurant, located within the 4* Orchard Hotel. The former Head Chef at renowned Nottingham fine dining restaurant World Service, David has been excelling in the kitchen for over 15 years. David’s appointment marks the start of a series of changes due to take place at Bramleys and The Orchard Hotel throughout 2025, designed to put Bramleys restaurant on the map as a leading high standard dining destination within Nottingham. Commenting on his appointment, David said: “There is huge potential at Bramleys to create one of Nottingham’s best destinations, and I am excited to lead the team and to elevate the quality of the food and overall experience at the restaurant. “Our plan is to develop a refined, seasonal menu within the restaurant and also offer a series of high-quality small plates in the bar for those looking for a more casual dining option. “We want Bramleys to be a destination where people can come to have a memorable experience, and it is great to have the support of Nottingham Venues to create something special in Nottingham.” Peter Bartlett, General Manager at The Orchard Hotel and East Midlands Conference Centre, said: “David is a fantastic chef with a history of delivering exceptional experiences for diners at restaurants across our region. His vision and knowledge will be instrumental in us refining and improving our offering at Bramleys. “Currently, Bramleys is popular with our hotel guests, but we aim to establish it as a standout destination, offering some of the finest food in the County for both hotel guests and local visitors to enjoy. “I am excited to see the restaurant evolve in the coming months and to unveil our refreshed offering later this year, creating a unique opportunity for Bramleys to shine as a destination in its own right.”

‘Help business to deliver the growth you want’, says Business Board Network Chair

Stuart Pearcey
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‘Help business to deliver the growth you want’, says Business Board Network Chair
Business Board Network Chair Mark Bretton has urged government to give businesses the freedom and support that will allow companies to deliver the growth it’s so keen to see. Responding to the Chancellor’s speech last week he said: “it is business who create the jobs and opportunities that in turn deliver growth.  Government’s role is simple; create the right stimulus and give the freedom and support to allow business to do what it does best.  So no more reviews please, provide the small amount of funding that’s urgently needed and let’s focus on turning the dream of growth into the reality of prosperity.” It was that freedom which he said, would allow developments like the South Yorkshire Airport City. “The planning and eventual realisation of these major investments, and hundreds of others, are very much dependent on the strengths of Business Boards in Mayoral Combined Authorities and across all regions, which act as the instigators and visionaries of local growth. “Put simply, without the support of business and the local Business Boards that represent their voice in local decision making, the dream of growth will remain just that, a dream. “So, it is a confusing contradiction that at the very time government has driving growth as its number one mission and seeking the support of business in doing that, that it has launched a consultation on withdrawing its support for business engagement and regional economic planning. “Local business leaders are completely frustrated at the continual review and rereview of their efforts to work together with local government to drive growth.  They want to get on with real work, knowing that they have the support of government to do this.”
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