Interior fit out starts to transform Nottingham’s new Central Library

Tess Egginton
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Interior fit out starts to transform Nottingham’s new Central Library
Anticipation is building as work starts on the interior fit out of the new Central Library, which sits at the heart of the Broad Marsh regeneration area. The work involves turning the shell of the building – part of the new Broad Marsh Car Park and Bus Station complex – into a modern library, with the installation of new floors, lifts, electrics and plumbing. Nottingham City Council are working with interior fit out and refurbishment specialists Overbury and acclaimed architects FaulknerBrowns, M&E consultancy Chord and Morgan Sindall construction to transform the inside of the building. The new library, spread over three floors and fully accessible via lifts, will feature a high-quality children’s library with an immersive story telling room, extensive book collection and comfortable areas to sit and read. Other amenities will include:
  • Feature book walls and shelving to display a large collection of books
  • Free Wi-Fi and free access to computers, laptops and iPads
  • A café & ground floor reception area which can be converted into a performance space
  • Specialist and rare collections room for local study material
  • Learning lab for special activities and school class visits
  • Meeting rooms
  • Exhibition space
  • Creative design areas
  • Business Intellectual Property Centre for the city.
A new Central Library is one of the key elements of the regeneration of the city’s Southside area and will be surrounded by transformed streets – creating fully pedestrianised areas with planting and seating and a new plaza that would link through the demolished section of the former shopping centre to Lister Gate and the city centre beyond. A masterplan is in place outlining a vision for the Broad Marsh site, including green space, an enhanced entrance to the City of Caves attraction and a mixture of housing, retail and leisure uses. Nottingham City Council has recently bid for £20m of Levelling Up funding to prepare the Frame of the derelict shopping centre to be transformed into a space to bring people together for play, performance and food, unlocking the wider vision for the site. Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, portfolio holder for leisure, culture & planning at Nottingham City Council, said: “It’s great to see that work is moving quickly and we’re at a really exciting stage where we will start to see our plans come to life as Overbury transform the interiors. “This library will meet the needs and expectations of our city’s residents, with a bright state-of-the-art facility – including a fantastic children’s library and some great features such as an immersive story telling room using the latest audio visual technology to help bring books alive. “The new library will help to bring people into the area and with the wider regeneration work, these pedestrianised streets will give people a place to visit and enjoy, with the library and its cafe at the heart of this.” Andrew Wood, Managing Director at Overbury, said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Nottingham City Council to deliver this exceptional new Central Library for the people of Nottingham. The library will be a fantastic creative and community orientated space, which Overbury and our partners will bring to life through all elements of the interior fit-out. “Throughout the project, we also look forward to prioritising social value and sustainability. We have committed to building back into the local area by focusing project spend within the local Nottinghamshire area and the surrounding Midlands region. “Furthermore, part of the spend will be with not-for-profit local enterprises. Using our in-house carbon calculation tool ‘CarboniCa’, developed by Morgan Sindall plc, we will also measure the embodied carbon of the project.”

Improving road and rail connectivity highlighted as priorities for ‘Levelling Up’ the East Midlands

Tess Egginton
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Improving road and rail connectivity highlighted as priorities for ‘Levelling Up’ the East Midlands
Better rail links, reduced congestion and safer roads are all highlighted as key priorities for ‘Levelling Up’ the East Midlands in a new document. Transport for the East Midlands (TfEM) and Midlands Connect, have highlighted eight shared priorities in a new joint vision for the cities and counties of the East Midlands. Delivering these priorities will boost growth and investment, contribute to the Government’s ‘Net Zero’ and ‘Levelling Up’ Agendas, and help address the historic underfunding of transport in the East Midlands. The eight priorities are:
  • Electrification of the Midland Main Line
  • Improved rail connectivity between Nottingham, Leicester and Coventry
  • The delivery of HS2 to the East Midlands and Leeds
  • Enhancements to the A46 Growth Corridor
  • Reducing congestion and improving safety on the A5 Growth Corridor
  • Supporting growth and improving reliability throughout the A50/A500 Corridor
  • Improving safety and reliability on the A1
  • Improving connectivity across EMDevCo and East Midlands Freeport areas.
Sir Peter Soulsby, chair of Transport for the East Midlands and City Mayor for Leicester, said: “The East Midlands has a strong track record in delivering high levels of housing and employment growth in the national interest over many years. “But with better connectivity, we could do so much more. “The eight strategic priorities Transport for the East Midlands and Midlands Connect have jointly identified will unlock growth across the region and allow our towns and cities to thrive – contributing to the Government’s ‘Levelling Up’ agenda.” Cllr Richard Davies, Transport for the East Midlands vice chair and transport lead for Lincolnshire County Council, explained the importance of just one of the eight projects: “The A46 Newark Northern Bypass remains Transport for the East Midlands’ top strategic road priority. “From Farndon to the interchange with the A1 and A17, the A46 has been a bottleneck for years, raising serious concerns about congestion, pollution, and safety. “While National Highways has identified a preferred route for an enhancement to the A46 which would improve the junctions with the A1 and A17 and connectivity across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, delivery funding has yet to be agreed and this crucial decision will now be for the new Government to make.” Sir John Peace, chairman of Midlands Connect, said: “At Midlands Connect, we are committed to working closely with Transport for the East Midlands to help deliver growth opportunities and better connections. “Investment in this region’s transport will have a remarkable benefit to the whole country and create a positive ripple effect to boost the development of industry, skills and infrastructure. “Taking forward these joint priorities will help lay the groundwork for improved connectivity across the Midlands, unlocking the potential of major economic hubs such as EMDevCo and the two Freeports – opening the region’s businesses to the world.”

Almost half of East Midlands staff now ‘hybrid working’

Tess Egginton
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Almost half of East Midlands staff now ‘hybrid working’
Nearly half of workers in the East Midlands are spending at least one day a week at home, new figures have revealed. In a government survey of more than 1,100 firms in the area, 31.9 per cent said their workers were in the office one or two days a week, while a further 15.9 per cent were in three to four days a week. Across the East Midlands, 15.9 per cent staff never work at home, the study found. The 47.8 per cent of staff now hybrid working in the East Midlands is above the UK average of 42.7 per cent. The Office for National Statistics data was gathered in the two weeks to August 21, and surveyed a total of 9,207 firms across the UK. Hybrid presentation expert and former politician Gavin Brown, director of UK firm Speak With Impact, said the new numbers showed habits which developed as a result of the pandemic were here to stay. He added that there were opportunities for East Midlands businesses who embraced the hybrid world to broaden their horizons, as well as for individual employees who excelled in a hybrid environment. Gavin Brown, director of Speak With Impact, said: “Unless you work every day in the office, or indeed every day at home, you are a hybrid worker. “These figures show us that now accounts for almost half of East Midlands workers, and it illustrates just how drastically things have changed in a couple of years. “This transformation in working and business environment must be adjusted to, and holds a great deal of opportunity. “But pitching, collaborating and performing in a hybrid world requires an entirely different set of skills which, prior to the Covid pandemic, almost nobody had. “If businesses can excel in this hybrid world by maximising in-person and virtual opportunities in tandem, it could provide a real boost to our economy and to individual prospects generally. “Other parts of the developed world are doing this now, and it’s essential the East Midlands and the wider UK does not get left behind.”

Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance say’s ‘Thanks to ride of thanks’

Steve Fisher
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Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance say’s ‘Thanks to ride of thanks’
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance are saying a big thank you to the hundreds of motorcyclists from across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire who took to the streets on the 4th September for their annual Ride of Thanks ride-out. Approximately 280 bikers created an eye-catching procession as they wound their way round the 62-mile circular route taking in some of the most glorious countryside and villages across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Several trikes and 3 wheelers also joined in on the action. The event raised a total of £3,264 which will be split between LNAA, the Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes Service and Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes. Both blood bike groups provide a free service to the LNAA ensuring that life-saving blood and plasma are delivered on board 24/7. Chris Bailey, Operations Manager for LNAA said: “Thank you to the organisers of the Ride of Thanks for the very generous donation of £1088. The money raised will help keep our helicopter airborne and Critical Care Cars operational across both counties. Events like this raise awareness of not only LNAA, but also those other Charities that support us, such as the Blood Bikers. Without their support it would be challenging to provide the advanced level of service we provide, which has seen over 100 units of blood products transfused on scene this year; the highest in any year for LNAA” The LNAA is one of the UK’s leading Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS) Charities. The enhanced level of pre-hospital critical care delivered to patients at the scene, gives people with the most severe injuries and medical conditions the very best chance of survival when minutes matter. And with the crews are on call 24 hours of the day, 365 days of the year, the highly skilled doctors, paramedics and pilots are there to help people in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, involved in life-threatening incidents every single day. Roland Johns, volunteer and joint organiser of the event said: “On-line registration was slow to start with but increased nearer the event and even a few bikers turned up on the day and donated the £10 requested to take part. As part of the preparation, we contacted all the 26 villages on the route and encouraged residents to come out and give us a wave as we passed by. I am pleased to say that we received great support and it was lovely to be greeted at all the villages that we passed through.” The Ride of Thanks was such a success due to the hard work and commitment from all committee members, sponsors Robin Hood Harley Davidson, the volunteers that marshalled the route, the people in the communities that cheered the bikers along the route and of course all the bikers who took part. Plans are already underway to make the Ride to Save Lives 2023 even bigger and better so even more money can be raised to support these three life-saving charities.”

£120m refinancing deal for housebuilder

Steve Fisher
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£120m refinancing deal for housebuilder
Allison Group has has secured £120 million of funding to achieve its goal of delivering 2,000 homes a year by 2025. A £20 million, 5 year term loan from HSBC and a 5 year £100 million Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) has been put in place with HSBC and NatWest, placing the group in a strong position for future growth plans. The RCF will be used for investment in new land and development and will enable Allison Group to achieve its goal of delivering 2,000 homes a year by 2025.  The business recognises that this target cannot be reached without the support of its supply chain and in recognition of this the group is pleased to be able to announce that from 1st August 2022 it has improved supplier payment terms from 45 to 30 days. Chief Operating Officer and former Chief Finance Officer Alastair Gordon-Stewart talks of how pleased he is to announce the news of the refinancing: “I am very satisfied with the financial firepower the refinancing gives to the Allison Group.  This builds on our long standing relationship with HSBC and I am delighted to form a new relationship with NatWest and look forward to working with both Lenders into the future.” John Anderson, CEO of Allison Group said: “Refinancing will undoubtedly bring exciting possibilities for Allison Group. We are making significant progress and have excellent ideas in store for our future that will now be viable with the £120 million we’ve secured from HSBC and NatWest. We are continuing to seek new talent, improving payment terms for suppliers, and making great headway towards our goal of building 2,000 homes a year. Our growth strategy is being brought to life and we are excited about what the future holds for us.”

Tenders invited for enviro-crime enforcement contracts in Lincolnshire

Steve Fisher
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Tenders invited for enviro-crime enforcement contracts in Lincolnshire
A tendering process inviting businesses to carry out enforcement across council areas of South Holland, Boston, and East Lindsey has been launched for the first time. The work will cover litter, dog-fouling, fly-tipping and other enviro-crime offences which blight communities. It’s felt that opening up procurement to work across all three areas is a key milestone for the Partnership while also being able to address enviro-crime head on across each authority. The successful bidder will provide foot patrols and overt CCTV surveillance across the Partnership to tackle littering, dog fouling and fly tipping. Officers will also be able to enforce offences in areas under Public Space Protection Orders. CCTV surveillance has already proved successful in Boston at fly-tipping hotspots with incidents on a downward trend. Enviro-crime enforcement officers have also recently started in East Lindsey and now the scheme aims to share that best practice by introducing the measures across the Partnership. The launch of the procurement process is a significant milestone for the Communities Directorate as set out in the Annual Delivery Plan. Cllr Deborah Evans, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services at Boston Borough Council said: “While I have been frustrated by the length of time it has taken to get the tender out, I can see the huge benefits of the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership coming together to make our councils attractive to potential enforcement companies and better value for money for our residents. “Giving us a wider choice will deliver the best possible outcome and service for the people of Boston.” Cllr Martin Foster, Portfolio Holder for Operational Services at East Lindsey District Council said: “I am very happy that Partnership working has led to this opportunity to help deliver a wider-approach to tackling enviro-crime across each authority. “By working across the Partnership, the successful bidder will also help deliver our key education messages to all our residents no matter where they live over such things as fly-tipping and litter.” Cllr Anthony Casson, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection, at South Holland District Council said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for enforcement companies to operate across three councils and make a difference to enviro-crime issues which impact so many villages and towns. “I am sure residents will be supportive to bring this enforcement to South Holland and being able to deliver a cost-effective way to tackle the problem collectively for all our residents is a positive step forward.”

New funding to spark growth of regional SME housebuilders

Steve Fisher
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New funding to spark growth of regional SME housebuilders
A new fund has been launched to help SME housebuilders to add more than 5,000 properties to the UK’s housing stock when traditional funding is not available. Mattioli Woods and other private institutional investors, alongside Homes England and Greater Manchester Pension Fund, have committed £80m to the Initial Close of the Newstead SME Real Estate Lending Fund. The Fund is to be managed by specialist fund manager Newstead Capital and the intention is to grow the fund to £300m in subsequent capital raised and deliver £1bn of funding over the Fund’s lifetime. It is intended to help to meet Homes England’s mission to accelerate change in the housing market by bringing in new sources of institutional capital and more lending channels to the SME housebuilding sector, whilst enabling the construction of over 5,000 high-quality, affordably priced, and efficient new homes throughout England. Peter Denton, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: “This partnership is our latest intervention to offer SME housebuilders a route to finance that may otherwise be unavailable through traditional means. “Introducing new sources of institutional capital to support SME house builders is a priority for Homes England and our cornerstone investment in this fund signals government support for accessible and competitive finance to meet the needs of SME developers across the country.

“We look forward to working with our new partners and welcome further institutional capital to help grow this fund and give SME housebuilders the helping hand they need to get more quality homes built in our regions.

“By empowering smaller regional housebuilders, the Fund will help to encourage the creation of sympathetic and environmentally responsible projects while supporting the regional SME house building sector and boosting regional job creation. The Fund employs a robust underwriting process overseen by Newstead, incorporating its own credit, environmental, social and governance metrics and will encourage the development of sustainable housing by taking new homes’ energy efficiency into account at the underwriting stage. Simon Champ, CEO at Newstead Capital, said: “This is an exciting step for Newstead. Our fund is the first of its kind. We are providing a conduit for long term institutional investors to gain access to a market which until now has been out of reach. “The Newstead RELF is aimed exclusively at the unfulfilled need for capital from regional housebuilders. Regional housebuilding has historically been critical to the economy, providing the country with a diverse range of smaller housing communities. The fund gives pension, insurance, and wealth management institutions an appropriate long term investment platform to support this vital industry.

“By meeting this demand, we will provide an attractive return for investors, the taxpayer and Manchester retirees, while also empowering local SME builders to compete with larger housebuilders. The Newstead RELF fund will allow more new homes to be built, tackling the housing shortage and contributing to levelling up by allowing smaller sites to be developed, with the associated environmental benefits.”

Government to make 33,000 more loans available to new businesses

Steve Fisher
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Government to make 33,000 more loans available to new businesses
An £884m loan scheme for new businesses is to be greatly expanded, delivering much needed finance to the UK’s array of innovative start-ups, the Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg announced over the weekend. With 33,000 new loans available, the programme’s eligibility will be expanded to support businesses trading for up to three years, up from two years. Businesses can apply immediately under the new criteria. This builds on the Start Up Loans programme that has provided more than 95,000 loans to start-ups across the UK since June 2012, offering an average of just over £9,000 in support. Start Up Loans provide a fixed interest rate of 6%, as well as mentoring, support and funding to aspiring business owners across the UK, providing support to those who might find it difficult to secure loans from traditional lenders. Alongside this, a new second loan will be available to businesses operating for up to five years, providing eligible businesses between 3 and 5 years old a much-needed Government-backed finance to support their expansion at a crucial juncture. Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg said: “Encouraging entrepreneurship and new businesses to thrive is critical to growing the economy and raising living standards. “From a hair salon in Wales, to a furniture business in Northern Ireland and a cake seller in the Lake District, expanding the Start Up Loans Scheme will support these small businesses through this challenging period and position them to grow – creating jobs and opportunities across the UK.” The scheme has backed businesses across the United Kingdom, with more than £54m provided to businesses in Scotland, £42m in Wales and over £12m in Northern Ireland. Expansion of the Start Up Loans scheme follows the 2021/22 Spending Review, at which the government made the commitment to provide 33,000 loans to the programme over the next three years. The extension provides further government support for businesses grappling with cost pressures and adds to measures announced by the Chancellor earlier this week, including the introduction of the Energy Bills Relief Scheme to help support them with the costs of energy, reforming off payroll working rules and simplification of the alcohol duty system. It also builds on key measures the Government has announced for small businesses in particular, including extending the £4.5 billion Recovery Loan Scheme and delivering the Help to Grow schemes, which provide mentoring and free software to thousands of businesses across the UK. Michelle Ovens, founder of Small Business Britain said: “The expansion of funding opportunities for start-ups and growing businesses will certainly be welcomed by small firms as a positive move to unleash their potential. Access to finance is vital for entrepreneurs to grow, and with rising costs and challenges across the board they need all the help they can get right now to realise their ambitions.”

£50m boost to cut industry’s reliance on fossil fuels

Steve Fisher
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£50m boost to cut industry’s reliance on fossil fuels
Nearly £50 million in government funding is being made available to support the future of British industry through the development of fuel switching technology. It’s intended that a wide range of industries, including steel, ceramics, pharmaceuticals and food production will be helped to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and slash energy costs. Business and Energy Minister Lord Callanan said: “We’re investing £49.4m to back British industry, making sure they’re fit for the future and helping end their dependency on expensive fossil fuels.

“Developing fuel switching technology will make this possible, accelerating the transition to cleaner fuels across our economy, and driving down costs for businesses.

“Industrial fuel switching shifts industrial energy use from high carbon to low carbon fuels, with the aim of decarbonising industry in line with the UK’s target of reaching Net Zero by 2050 while boosting economic growth, jobs and prosperity.” Fossil fuels (including coal, gas and oil) made up around 55% of industrial energy consumption in 2019. As set out in the Industrial Decarbonisation Strategy, to decarbonise industry in line with net zero, it is expected that industrial emissions need to fall by around 2 thirds by 2035 and at least 90% by 2050. Investing in this technology will make it easier and more cost-effective for industry to be powered by cleaner fuels like hydrogen and renewable electricity, instead of fossil fuels. The funding, available through Phase 2 of the £55 million Industrial Fuel Switching competition, will support the development of new fuel switching technology in the UK, helping to attract private investment into the country and supporting new green jobs.

Derbyshire construction firm makes contracts manager promotion

Tess Egginton
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Derbyshire construction firm makes contracts manager promotion
After joining the Enrok team just 18 months ago as a project manager, Matt Shelley, MCIOB has been promoted to contracts manager to focus on client liaison, pre-construction and planning. Responsible for overseeing all of Enrok’s construction projects, Matt will now have a greater focus on client liaison, managing site teams and ensuring they have the long-term help and support they need to run successful, safe projects. Entrusting his teams to deliver on short term goals, Matt will concentrate on the wider outlook of projects and be involved in pre-construction planning and tender submissions, as well as meeting prospective clients and broader company development. Talking about his promotion Matt said: “I’ve always had a long term plan and vision for where I want my career to be heading and this is a positive next step for me in a great team. It’s an indictment of joining a company riding a wave of success and I guess its recognition and reward for doing a good job, which is always appreciated. “First and foremost, I want to continue Enrok’s outstanding safety record and strive to bring in best practice expertise from working with larger contractors. Secondly, I want to continue to play an active part in growing our business and replicating the fantastic year we have had for many more to come.” With over 20 years’ construction management experience, Matt has worked for several market leaders across several number of sectors including manufacturing, retail, education, probation and multinational consumer goods. He’s been involved in leading large teams to deliver multi-million-pound projects for some well-known brands. Jordan Mallisch, director at Enrok Construction, says: “Matt’s been instrumental in several of our projects since he joined us, working on Hartshill doctor’s surgery in Nuneaton and our Regan Way and Ashbourne projects too. It’s great to have Matt as part of the senior management team and be involved with projects from start to finish. We’re really pleased to promote him within the firm and look forward to where we can take the business in the future.” Matt concludes: “I really enjoy the inclusive, open and honest culture at Enrok. When big decisions need making, the whole senior team are involved. We come to a conclusion together, which is great for bringing everyone on board and driving the business forward.”

Godwin secures planning permission for residential development in Shepshed

Tess Egginton
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Godwin secures planning permission for residential development in Shepshed
Property developer Godwin Developments has secured outline planning permission for a residential scheme comprising up to 50 new family homes on Ashby Road, in the Leicestershire town of Shepshed. The development is located on a vacant site next to the established community of Crowson Close and is part of the emerging Charnwood Local Plan. It will create a much-needed extension to the town of Shepshed which plans to build 2,331 new homes by 2037 to satisfy growing demand. The development is well positioned for access into the town and all major amenities including local primary and secondary schools, shops, health care, services and employment, as well as the surrounding regional and national transport networks. It lies just over half a mile from junction 23 of the M1 motorway and approximately three miles from Loughborough, the principal settlement in the Borough of Charnwood. It is also surrounded by a range of historic parks and gardens and Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve is within a short drive. The approved outline plans feature an extensively landscaped area facing Ashby Road Central, giving residents access to shared green space and adding to the appeal of the town. As a part of the work to increase connections with the town of Shepshed, the proposals will improve footpaths, offering active forms of travel to new residents. Nick Harrison, planning director at Godwin Developments, said: “We’re pleased to have secured planning permission for our residential development in Shepshed which will play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for new homes in the area. This housing scheme will support the Council’s strategy for sustainable development, while also promoting Shepshed as a desirable place for people of all ages to live, work and play.” The Godwin Developments team included Planning and Design Group Ltd as the planning consultants and engineering firm HSP Consulting.

Cooper Parry appoints new COO

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Cooper Parry appoints new COO
Hard on the heels of launching new plans to grow fivefold in five years, Cooper Parry have announced a significant appointment to boost their leadership line-up. Phil Erridge recently joined the firm as chief operating officer after 16 years with HSBC where he led HSBC’s global wholesale model management and delivery function.
Phil brings experience of taking on a number of significant senior roles with HSBC. These include leading the integration activities of the global Wholesale COO organisation, creation of a data-led customer experience and sales function, and managing the Commercial Bank’s financial crime risk function globally. Phil is passionate about developing organisational capabilities; using a powerful blend of data, technology and collective team effort to continually develop all the operating elements of the business to enhance “how we do” what we do. All of which hits the right notes at Cooper Parry as they are driving growth across new and existing opportunities and markets following significant recent investment from Waterland Private Equity. Working alongside CEO Ade Cheatham and Cooper Parry’s Leadership Team, Phil will lead the firm’s integration activities across several strategic acquisitions and drive operational efficiency. Speaking about Phil’s appointment, Ade said: “I’m delighted to welcome Phil to the CP family. His role as COO will be invaluable as we target significant and ambitious growth over the next five years. And now with substantial PE investment behind us, having someone with Phil’s global breadth of experience and can-do attitude is both timely and terrific.” On joining Cooper Parry, Phil added: “What attracted me to CP was the both the culture of the business and its desire to continually improve and challenge the market. For me, this mindset is hugely exciting as it provides an environment to do great things. I’ve watched with interest the growth of Cooper Parry and I’m thrilled to be joining at a time of significant growth and massive change.”

The mini budget – Streets Chartered Accountants to explain what it means for you

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The mini budget – Streets Chartered Accountants to explain what it means for you
The new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng, is set to deliver a mini-budget on Friday, 23rd September 2022. Following the appointment of a new Prime Minister, Liz Truss, the Chancellor will outline the ‘new’ government’s plans to help ease the cost of living and to boost growth. It is likely to see measures to reduce the tax burden and incentives for growth, along with details of support to help businesses and individuals manage the rising energy bills. Following the Chancellor’s announcements, Streets Chartered Accountants will be holding a special webinar on Monday 26th September at 3pm. They will provide details of the announcements along with guidance on what they may mean to businesses and individuals. To register for the virtual event click here. This presentation will be recorded and available on-demand for those not able to join live. Simply register your place to receive a link to watch at a time to suit you.

Plan for £3m heritage vehicle centre on historic site motors ahead

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Plan for £3m heritage vehicle centre on historic site motors ahead

The team behind plans to build a £3m heritage vehicle centre on a historic site in Osmaston have thanked Derby City Council after they were given the green light to start work on the project.

Owners of Great Northern Classics said contractors are expected to move onto the site within days after “tremendous support” from the council helped them to get the necessary permission and funding over the line.

The project, which is expected to create 120 jobs, will see the former Light Alloy Factory in Osmaston Road transformed into a centre where owners of classic vehicles including cars, motorbikes and lorries can bring their pride and joys to be repaired and restored.

Similar to the concept of BBC TV’s Repair Shop, they will be able to access upholsterers, electricians, mechanics and bodywork specialists, all of whom will be given workshop space all under the same roof within the 85,000 sq ft building.

But the centre is also designed to preserve and propagate crucial skills for the classic vehicle industry by acting as a training academy for a new generation of young artisans and skilled workers, who will be offered apprenticeships to enable them to learn their trade direct from the experts themselves.

And it will also have extra facilities so that visitors will be able to meet and look at the work taking place and attend/host conferences and meetings, while the site will offer vehicle storage as well.

The idea for Great Northern Classics belongs to Shaun Matthews, a classic vehicle fanatic and the former MD of Denby-based Deb Group’s International Dispensing, R&D and IP Divisions, who wanted to establish an academy where the skills of classic vehicle restorers could be passed on.

He approached current Derbyshire High Sheriff Mike Copestake and Derby architect Derek Latham, who are experts in renovating old buildings, asking for help to find somewhere suitable to house it.

A number of possible sites were considered until Rolls-Royce agreed to sell the company the former Light Alloy Centre, which is currently home to the aerospace firm’s heritage collection of aero-engines.

Plans were promptly drawn up and, earlier this year, the scheme was approved by Derby City Council, which has also made another contribution to the scheme by lending the company £1.25m from its Derby Enterprise Growth Fund.

Shaun said: “I am so happy to see this project getting off the ground after so long and we’re hugely indebted to Derby City Council for their tremendous support.

“Classic vehicle ownership is booming, but it’s served by a cottage industry of talented engineers who are working away in small workshops all over the country and, frankly, aren’t getting any younger.

“We want to change that, by bringing them together under one roof while giving young people who want to become motor engineers a place to learn their skills from these experts, all of which will create jobs and attract visitors to the city.”

Mike Copestake, who is also a director of the project, said: “We are extremely grateful to the city council for sharing our vision and enabling us to start work on what promises to be a landmark development for this area of Derby.

“There is so much engineering history in Osmaston and we’re only round the corner from where Roll-Royce used to build the Silver Ghost motorcar at the start of last century.

“It’s wonderful to be able to rekindle that automotive spirit by ensuring that owners can preserve their classic vehicles and a new generation of engineers can learn the skills they need for their careers in engineering.”

Chris Poulter, leader of Derby City Council, said: “We want to ensure that as much of our spending as possible remains within the city, supporting Derby people – and Derby City Council is pleased to support this exciting opportunity. Not only will it secure the future of a historic cultural asset, but it also gives back to the people of Derby.

“It will create a space that attracts visitors, boosting the city economy and where young people can learn valuable skills totally befitting of Derby’s engineering heritage.”

The classic vehicle industry is estimated to be worth around £7bn to the UK economy and employs 35,000 people across the country, according to the Federation of British Heritage Vehicle Clubs.

Great Northern Classics is due to open in summer next year.

An artists’ impression of how the interior of Great Northern Classics heritage vehicle centre will look when it opens its doors next year.

East Midlands Expo welcomes BSP Consulting as sponsors for 2022

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East Midlands Expo welcomes BSP Consulting as sponsors for 2022
Business Shows Group are welcoming longstanding exhibitors BSP Consulting as sponsors to the 2022 East Midlands Expo, taking place on Monday 14 November at DeVere’s East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham. BSP have exhibited at the event for over 15 years and Business Shows Group have celebrated many business birthdays with them along the way. Having sponsored the event previously, Carrie Booth and the team are already organised with directors Mark Rayers and Tony Goddard lined up for this year’s seminar, presenting  ‘Sustainability and how engineering plays its part’. Attendees can also join BSP’s Managing Director Carl Hilton and business development manager Carrie Booth at the day’s network lunch, for which tickets are available by pre order only at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/product/network-lunch-nottingham/ The East Midlands Expo, for which Business Link is a proud partner, will open to attendees at 9am on Monday 14 November, with a seminar taking place between 10:45am and noon, a special networking lunch taking place between 12:15pm and 2:15pm, and the exhibition closing at 3:30pm.

For more information on exhibiting at the event click here.

To register to attend the event for free click here.

To secure tickets for the networking lunch click here.

City Taxis return as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

Michael Fisher
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City Taxis return as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k
City Taxis are returning as partners of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, including reprising their role as Title sponsors of the City Taxis Fun Run which takes place on the 10k race day 16th October 2022. The Fun Run forms part of the race day activity, and anyone can take part on the 1Km course around Queens Park which will start after the 10k race has left the park at 10 am. Sacha Skinner, Marketing Manager of City Taxis, said: “We are so excited to be back sponsoring the City Taxis Fun Run at the Chesterfield 10k for 2022. “The event last year was a fantastic day where we saw so many inspirational people taking to the course with the aim of helping worthy charities and the incredible work they do. “We are so proud to support the event, helping to raise its profile and in turn benefit the charities. It’s important to us that we give back to the communities we serve, and this is such a great event to do that. “City Taxis will also be returning as sponsors of the Fun Run, which sees families and children get involved in the action. You can even bring the family dog!” John Timms, Event Director, added: “Last year City Taxis were integral to the success of the event, from providing the lead vehicle to their sponsorship of the City Taxis Fun Run. “It’s a much-loved part of the race day, and we welcome everyone to join in. It’s open to all regardless of age or ability and you will go home with a well-earned specially designed medal.” Once again City Taxis are providing the lead vehicle for the 10k race. This year the vehicle is a hydrogen-powered second generation Toyota Mirai with water as its only emission. Not only will it contribute to the event being more environmentally friendly but will also benefit the crowd of runners behind the vehicle. Runners in this year’s 10K are fundraising in support of local charities including Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation. Entry is just £5 for the City Taxi Fun Run on race day at the race information point, or you can register in advance for the Fun Run or the 10K at www.chesterfield10K.com

East Mids solicitor recognised with national accreditation

Michael Fisher
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East Mids solicitor recognised with national accreditation
Senior Associate and solicitor, Gemma Hopper, from the Court of Protection department at leading law firm Nelsons, has been recognised with a national accreditation for her expertise in providing legal support for older and vulnerable clients, their families and carers. The accreditation is awarded by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly) – an organisation setting the standards for the highest quality legal advice in specialist areas, such as wills, powers of attorney, deputyships and elder abuse. To achieve the accreditation, Gemma completed an assessment to demonstrate a solid understanding of the specific needs and considerations required when safeguarding and protecting older clients’ interests. Since joining Nelsons in 2019 as a Court of Protection solicitor, Gemma provides specialist support to clients who lack the mental capacity to make decisions in relation to their property and financial affairs. She brings a wealth of experience and focusses on supporting and empowering Nelsons’ elderly clients. This has given her a unique understanding and insight that allows her to approach all clients sensitively and provide advice on what is sometimes a life-changing decision. Gemma said: “I am delighted to be an SFE full accredited member and hope it will enable me to support more clients and their families. “At Nelsons, we strive to give a voice to everyone who needs it, and in my case, it is so important for more vulnerable or elderly clients. Being accredited marks a great milestone in my career and I am very proud of the accomplishment.” Craig Staten-Spencer, legal director and trust manager at Nelsons, said: “Becoming an SFE full accredited member is a great achievement for Gemma, but also for the court of protection team and firm as a whole. Guiding our more senior or vulnerable clients is an important part of our work at Nelsons, and I am pleased to see Gemma’s contributions have been recognised.” Lakshmi Turner, chief executive of SFE, said: “When it comes to planning ahead for later life, getting the right advice is essential. An SFE accredited lawyer is an expert in this area of the law and understands the wider, often sensitive, issues around health, care and family that may need consideration. SFE lawyers understand the issues affecting older and vulnerable clients and follow a strict code of practice with respect and dignity at its heart. “Ultimately, choosing an SFE lawyer means you’ll be guided through this complex and sensitive area of law and will enable you to lay solid foundations to protect you and your loved ones in later life.”

Interest rates rise to 2.25%

Tess Egginton
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Interest rates rise to 2.25%
The Bank of England has further raised interest rates, from 1.75% to 2.25% – seeing the base rate grow to the highest level in 14 years. It comes as the Bank of England continues to battle severe inflation, a top business concern in the East Midlands impacting investment intentions. The decision however will increase the risk for firms exposed to increasing mortgage costs and debt burdens. “Raising the base rate to the highest level in 14 years is further evidence the Bank of England is taking a hard line on tackling inflation,” said East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) Chief Executive Scott Knowles. “Our Quarterly Economic Survey shows that unrelenting inflation, largely driven by rising energy costs, is by far and away the top business concern at present and is hampering investment prospects. “But the Bank faces an increasingly tricky balancing act. The interest rate is a very blunt instrument to control inflationary pressures that are largely driven by rocketing energy costs and global supply chain disruption. Its decision to raise rates will increase the risk for individuals and organisations exposed to rising mortgage costs and debt burdens – dampening consumer confidence. “Recent energy price cap announcements will have provided some comfort to businesses and households alike and should place downward pressure on the rate of inflation. “[Friday’s] fiscal statement by the Chancellor is now a critical moment. He has the unenviable task of shoring up the economy while avoiding additional inflationary stimulus. “The Bank, looking to dampen consumer demand, and Government, looking to increase growth, could now be pulling in opposite directions. “What businesses will want to see is a plan to address the short-term drivers of inflation, as well as a long-term strategy to promote investment that gives them confidence for the future and counteracts the recessionary pull of rising interest rates.”

World first as Nottingham car marketplace helps sell first Ariel Atom supercar with Bitcoin

Tess Egginton
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World first as Nottingham car marketplace helps sell first Ariel Atom supercar with Bitcoin

AutoCoinCars, the Nottingham-headquartered car marketplace that allows dealerships to advertise their cars for sale to cryptocurrency users, is celebrating after the first ever sale of an Ariel Atom in Bitcoin.

The deal for the iconic Ariel Atom 3.5R model was sealed by one of its partner dealerships, Supercar Clinic on Halliwell Road, Bolton, which completed the sale of the supercar to an undisclosed client in a deal worth £64,995 (circa 3.6 Bitcoin at the time).

Luke Willmott, co-founder and COO of AutoCoinCars, which has over 850 dealerships using its platform, is also the owner of Castle Gym which recently announced it has been forced to close.

Luke says: “There’s no secret that business has been challenging of late with Castle Gym and that has taken a huge amount of my resources, both financial, mental and emotional but that’s the life of an entrepreneur.

“Thankfully, I have diverse business interests and a fantastic team behind me and with AutoCoinCars we are constantly involved in new developments. I am still working hard behind the scenes on something with regards to Castle Gym but in the meantime, to have a world first with such an iconic UK brand is pretty awesome.

“We now have over 850 dealerships on our platform as more and more people seek the flexibility of buying with cryptocurrency. There has often been criticism of cryptocurrency in that it is not tangible. However, we can now help people to unlock the potential of their portfolio by converting their Bitcoin into physical assets and we’re delighted to be part of this world first.”

New home for water industry experts at Friar Gate Studios

Tess Egginton
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New home for water industry experts at Friar Gate Studios
Water industry experts, Invenio Systems, have relocated to Friar Gate Studios, part of the Connect Derby managed workspace scheme. The company was founded in 2015 by Stephen Tooms and Stuart Trow to provide innovative solutions to the water industry. Invenio Systems’ main focus is on developing new techniques to collect and analyse data, which will provide better information on which to make investment decisions, and to guide routine operations. Since being acquired by Halma in 2019, the company has grown rapidly and now operates offices in Cwmbran, Washington, Tyne and Wear and Newport. The move to Friar Gate Studios was to enable expansion of the Data Science team and centralisation of some operational support activities. It is designed to support the rapid growth in services and systems offered to water companies across the UK. Commenting on the move to Friar Gate Studios, Keith Hilson, director of Invenio Systems, said: “We are very happy with our new office space at Friar Gate Studios, which is perfect for our needs. The facilities are great, especially the large meeting rooms which we use regularly to meet and plan with clients. “The Connect Derby staff are always on hand to help with any queries and issues we have and have made us feel at home here. “Being located in the Midlands will enable us to service our clients quicker and more efficiently, which will improve the level of service we provide.” Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “We are delighted to welcome Stephen, Stuart, and their team to our flagship building at Friar Gate Studios. Their innovative business is a great addition to the range of creative and non-creative businesses already based here. “Friar Gate Studios’ city centre location is proving increasingly popular with businesses looking for a flexible working environment and we are now proud to boast a dynamic and diverse community of new and established businesses.”
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