New city centre ambitions for Derby

Steve Fisher
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New city centre ambitions for Derby
Derby City Council are taking the first steps in launching a new ambition document and city conversation to address the issues that are facing UK cities.
As part of the city’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and to meet the challenges of the 21st century, Derby City Council has created a new ambition document which outlines ideas for a bold, transformational vision for Derby city centre, now is the time to have your say!
Derby’s city centre conversation begins on Wednesday 8 June on the Let’s Talk Derby website and will be a chance for residents and businesses to review emerging ideas and share your feedback.
The conversation is a way for citizens to engage with the new ambition document, that was approved at a Special Cabinet meeting in May.
The vision will focus on longer-term ideas and interventions that will transform the city centre and secure its future as a vibrant place that people can feel proud of and want to visit. It will recognise the challenges facing all city centres, not just Derby, and provide an over-arching ‘direction-of-travel’ that will inform future plans and actions.
The document is broken down into 12 themes that focus on the main issues facing our city centre and the key areas we want to improve or reimagine.
• Climate change • Culture • Public realm • Green and blue infrastructure • City living • Accessibility and connectivity • Heritage • Design quality • Learning • Business and creativity • Shopping and leisure • Delivery and coordination
Cllr Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council said: “We’re excited to start this open conversation with our residents, businesses and stakeholders. This is a fantastic opportunity to talk about what we want Derby to be in the future. From these discussions we’ll be creating a brand new vision for the future of our city centre. I urge everyone to take the time and share ideas for the Derby of the future.
Whilst we need to take urgent action now to deal with the immediate challenges and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we also need a longer-term plan that addresses the structural issues that face the city centre, of which can’t be solved overnight.
We’ll be working closely with our Team Derby partners and to get a greater understanding of what our residents and businesses would like and need to see in their city centre. These conversations will be the first step towards creating a new vision which will restore its position as the heart and soul of Derby.”
This is the first time a city-wide future regeneration conversation has taken place of this size since the creation of the City Centre Masterplan in 2016. The previous plan brought about exciting developments within the city, including the Becketwell development and Our City, Our River flood defence scheme.
These conversations around the ambition will inform the next stage in the process for developing a new City Centre vision to be published in 2023.
The conversation begins on Wednesday 8 June and will run for 12 weeks over the summer on the Let’s Talk Derby website for residents, business and stakeholders to share ideas and feedback

Nottingham Castle claims leading RICS award

Steve Fisher
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Nottingham Castle claims leading RICS award
The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. They recognise outstanding achievement, teamwork and companies. Nottingham Castle was submitted for the award by architects, master planners and heritage consultants Purcell, who highlighted their remarkable work to transform the Castle. Purcell led both the conservation management plan and subsequent design that has preserved, restored and enhanced the site, safeguarding its future. The project included the refurbishment of the 17th century Ducal Palace, medieval Gatehouse, and sprawling cave networks. A new Visitor Centre, located within the foreground of the remodelled landscape, provides new guest facilities. The site was recognised for successfully creating a vibrant and accessible space which contributes to the Castle’s important cultural role in the city. Zoë Skelding, Partner at Purcell, said: “The works conducted at Nottingham Castle celebrate the site’s diverse heritage in a compelling and engaging way that reflects its national and global significance, and we are delighted that the RICS have acknowledged its remarkable transformation. “Our team worked closely with Nottingham City Council and its partners to restore and reimagine the site to conserve its historic fabric and enhance the visitor experience, safeguarding it for future generations. Sensitive conservation, contemporary new-build and sustainable technologies have been blended seamlessly to restore the Castle as a flagship for the City and a catalyst for its regeneration.” In granting the Award to Nottingham Castle, the RICS Judges commented that: “This project is a well-considered and executed revitalisation of a much-loved community asset, which has been saved for the benefit of many and will bring visitors to the city.” The work at Nottingham Castle will now go on to compete at the national Grand Final in London on 21 October this year. David Johns, interim CEO at Nottingham Castle Trust, said: “Congratulations to Purcell, Nottingham Castle Transformation Team and everyone involved in the restoration of Nottingham Castle which reflects the grand scale of what has been achieved. It’s our privilege to occupy a place with spaces so wonderfully designed and detailed for our visitors to experience.” Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Planning at Nottingham City Council said: “We’re delighted that the work to transform Nottingham Castle has received this recognition which is a testament to the ambition, skill and teamwork of all involved over the past few years. “Due to this transformation work we now have a Castle we can be truly proud of, showcasing Nottingham’s 1,000 years of history and providing a local as well as international heritage attraction”. The work recognised by RICS was partly funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, Nottingham City Council and Nottingham Castle Trust, the project brings to life the Castle’s architecture, heritage and significance, and the role it has played in the United Kingdom.

Civic celebration event for Forest after securing historic promotion

Steve Fisher
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Civic celebration event for Forest after securing historic promotion
Nottingham has the opportunity to celebrate Forest’s famous promotion to the Premier League at a special event today (Monday) in Old Market Square. Players and club officials will be showing off the Championship play-off winners trophy on the Council House balcony as part of a lunchtime celebration. Comedian and lifelong Forest supporter Matt Forde and BBC Radio Nottingham commentator Colin Fray will host the event, which will include interviews with the players before the trophy is raised aloft to the crowd below. Forest played out a thrilling game this afternoon against Huddersfield Town in front of a capacity crowd at Wembley – it was the club’s first trip to the new stadium since it opened in 2007 and their first major final for 30 years. Tomorrow’s event will start at 1pm in Old Market Square and supporters are asked to arrive no earlier than 11.30am to ensure time for preparations. The celebration falls on the first day of the school half-term holiday and is designed to be a family event. There is strictly no alcohol, flares or pyrotechnics – anyone caught with the latter may be subject to a club ban. It is expected to be very popular and there will be road closures and diversions put in place, plus some temporary changes to bus services. Trams will not move through Old Market Square for a short time and services will terminate at Royal Centre and Nottingham station. Councillor David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Forest secured promotion – it means a huge amount to the city after more than two decades outside the top flight. “On behalf of the Council, I’d like to congratulate Steve Cooper, his players and staff, the club’s board and owners, plus the wonderful supporters who travelled down to north-west London today in their thousands to represent our proud city. We must recognise Huddersfield, too, who played so well on the day. “This is a huge moment for Nottingham. We said last week that, beyond the sheer pride and joy that promotion brings, having a team in the Premier League offers the local economy an estimated £120m boost. “We expect it could lead to an extra 100,000 people coming to the city as visiting football fans, as well as an increase in national reputation helping to attract students applying to our two universities and people looking for holiday breaks, along with extra spend by Premier League club staff and players. “But above all that, this is simply a wonderful moment for Nottingham and we hope many Forest supporters, their families and city residents are able to join the players outside the Council House tomorrow. For those who unfortunately can’t attend, the event will be live-streamed.”

£5.9 million investment to refurbish Lincoln Central Market

Steve Fisher
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£5.9 million investment to refurbish Lincoln Central Market

City of Lincoln Council can confirm works to refurbish Lincoln Central Market have now begun.

Initial works began in April to the grade II listed Central Market following investment from Historic England through the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme, which has enabled a programme of historic building restorations designed to revitalise the area and uncover the city’s rich history. Some £5.9 million investment has also been earmarked for the project thanks to a successful bid for funding through the Be Lincoln Town Deal, which has seen £19 million awarded to the city by government to drive economic regeneration and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth. The market was first built in 1937 to the design of architect Robert Atkinson and incorporates the relocated façade of the original 1737 butter market which was located at St Peters at Arches in Lincoln. The proposed scheme is for the major regeneration of the Central Market building, which will include:
  • The opening up of the blind arches on the north and east elevations
  • A new mezzanine floor and relocation of the existing butcher and fishmonger stalls into the main market hall under the mezzanine incorporating its own glazed entrance
  • Replacement roofing and glazed lantern
  • Demolition of the butcher’s corridor to the south of the building and the construction of a new two storey extension to accommodate a new restaurant with a roof terrace
  • New heating and lighting in the building
  • Freestanding stalls in the interior space of a contemporary, minimal design for local businesses to promote local produce and an area within the centre of the Market Hall to accommodate seating for the associated food outlets within the stalls.
  • Unisex toilets including disabled and baby changing facilities
It is also proposed to repave and enhance external areas in City Square and Sincil Street to encourage the evening economy, with space for outdoor dining by the waterway and events. The vision is to stem the decline in footfall, occupancy and turnover by reinventing the market to create a hybrid offer which combines local produce, food and non-food retailing, with expanded food and beverage and communal dining. The addition of the mezzanine level will allow for additional seating and flexible uses. The creation of the standalone restaurant unit within the new two storey extension, will create a further ‘destination’ dining space as well as supporting the evening economy. Cllr Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council said: “The vision for Central Market for some time has been to design a building of destination, an attractive and modern retailing and leisure space, offering a mix of stalls and delivering a place where people want to visit and dwell rather than simply pass by en-route to the High Street or the Transport links in the city. “Thanks to funding from government’s Towns Fund and High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ), we now have the opportunity for major investment into the market to create a sustainable future for this important historical asset, which will in turn support the diversification and recovery of the High Street.” David Walsh, Principal Advisor at Historic England added: “The start of the refurbishment of Central Market is a major milestone in heritage led regeneration in the Cornhill Quarter and Lincoln city centre. “The works will allow this wonderful building to have a new lease of life, support local businesses and provide a destination for visitors. “I am delighted to see the Lincoln High Street Heritage Action Zone now having a real effect on the ground, in this and other projects, and helping Lincoln move forward after a difficult few years.” Minister for Levelling Up Neil O’Brien said: “I am thrilled to learn that the £5.9 million refurbishment of Lincoln Central Market has started and that residents will soon be able to feel and experience the benefits of Towns Fund investment. The improvements to this historic market will increase visitor footfall, support local businesses and restore pride for the people of Lincoln. “The project is a key plank of the ambitious proposals set out in Lincoln’s £19 million Town Deal. We are levelling up communities like Lincoln up and down the country and delivering on our mission to spread prosperity to every part of the country, as set out in The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill earlier this month.” Liam Scully, Chair of the Be Lincoln Town Deal Board added: “By restoring and repurposing the market building, this will create a modern and diversified market offer, combining retail, food, leisure and technology. “In doing so, the Be Lincoln Town Deal Board are proud to support the creation of this anchor destination with the Cornhill Quarter, which is emerging as a prime leisure and retail area in the city.” The designs for the market building have been carefully developed in conjunction with advice from Banks Long & Co commercial and letting agents, Lincolnshire County Highways, the LA Planning Conservation Officer, Historic England as well as feedback received from local businesses, traders and the residents of Lincoln following a public survey in February 2021. The works being carried out by local based construction company Lindum are expected to be complete by the end of 2023.  

Lincoln Community lottery raises over £150k for local good causes

Steve Fisher
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Lincoln Community lottery raises over £150k for local good causes

Launched by City of Lincoln Council in August 2018, Lincoln Community Lottery has now raised more than £150,000 for good causes located in and around the city.

Every supporter of the lottery has contributed to raising these funds, with 60 pence in every £1 ticket purchased going directly to local good causes. Of this 60 pence, 50 pence directly goes to the supporters chosen good cause and 10 pence supports the Lincoln Lottery Community Fund. The remaining 40 pence in every £1 ticket contributes towards administration costs, prizes and VAT. To date, 81 local good causes are benefitting from the lottery. In 2021, £10,500 from the Lincoln Lottery Community Fund was awarded to five local good causes to deliver a range of activities aimed at supporting residents of the city. Those causes successful in securing a share of this funding in 2021 included Active Arena CIC, Development Plus, Busydays Day Care, Rhubarb Theatre and Building Resilience in Communities. Cllr Sue Burke, Portfolio Holder for Reducing Inequality at City of Lincoln Council, said: “It is incredible to hear over £150,000 has been raised by the supporters of Lincoln Community Lottery so far. “These additional funds have helped our local good causes to deliver a range of vital services to support the residents of Lincoln. “This additional support has been particularly needed over the past two years due to the pandemic, and I would encourage more good causes to consider using the lottery as a tool to raise additional funds in the future.” City of Lincoln Council is encouraging local good causes to join and benefit from Lincoln Community Lottery. There is no cost to a good cause to join the lottery, however, good causes will be required to meet set criteria to ensure the aims of the lottery continue to be met.

Young professionals in East Midlands gain recognition as finalists confirmed for Generation Next Awards

Michael Fisher
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Young professionals in East Midlands gain recognition as finalists confirmed for Generation Next Awards
Some of the most promising young talent across businesses in the region has been recognised among the finalists of East Midlands Chamber’s Generation Next Awards 2022. The second instalment of the awards, held in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby, recognise young professionals and business leaders aged under 35, as well as organisations led by people in this demographic. A shortlist has now been revealed across the 10 categories, ranging from a Breakthrough Award and Customer Service Award through to marking Excellence in Innovation and Technology and the Generation Next Future Leader. New prizes for this year recognise outstanding contributions in diversity and inclusion, arts and culture, corporate social responsibility and sustainability. A virtual judging day will take place on 8 and 9 June, in which finalists will be interviewed by members of the chamber of commerce’s senior management team, Generation Next board and representative of the sponsor. Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July. Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the rising stars of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities. “We received some brilliant applications from a diverse breadth of individuals, and our shortlist of finalists offers a glimpse into the amazing young talent that exists here in the East Midlands.” Finalists were announced at an event held at Cosy Club, in Nottingham, last night (25 May) in which two of the three founders of Derby-based doughnut delivery service Project D – who won the Entrepreneur of the Year category at the inaugural Generation Next Awards – talked about their journey to date and hopes for the future. Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.    

Generation Next Awards 2022 shortlist

Future Leader Award (sponsored by University of Derby) Craig Evans – UKATA Matilda Swanson – Loates HR Mir Patel – Unique Window Systems Theo Kirk – Express Recruitment Emma Roberts – Derby Community Parent Programme CIC Dan Heffernan – D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership David Maran – MP Digital Limited Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions Umar Razah – Mauricare Homes   Breakthrough Award (sponsored by Nottingham University Business School) Alpha Geek Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative Kate Johnson – Rate Social Sophie Redman – Linford Grey Associates Kevin Kapezi & Leo Worsley – Growthack Ltd   Customer Service Award Danielle Harkness – Plastek UK James Hardwick – Future Life Wealth Management Anxhela Agaci – Gents of Notts Arran Gessey – Bam Boom Cloud Ben Wilkinson – MHA MacIntyre Hudson   Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Loughborough College Emily Jacob – emh group Frank Hemmingway – Plastek UK Polly Oakes – Express Recruitment Rebecca Houlston – Cross Productions Ruby Birks – Purpose Media   Diversity & Inclusion Award Fred Gough – University of Derby Jake Wood – Jake Wood PT Martin Croft – Barrister Link Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions   Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group) Adam Bamford – Colleague Box Alpha Geek Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative Kate Johnson – Rate Social Katie Gilbert – TTK Confectionery   Excellence in Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs) David Maran – MP Digital Harsh Shah – De Montfort University Jack Hall – Scenariio Nicola Ciaessen – RSM UK Rachel Saunders – Duncan & Toplis   Sustainability Award (sponsored by MHA MacIntyre Hudson) Carys Tetlaw – RSM UK Daniel Kelk – Plastek UK Jake Hall – Scenariio   Creative Award (sponsored by PPL PRS) Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative Deng Yudan – Follow the Orient Joey Lever – Another World Media Katie Brennan – Cross Productions Sophie Price and Tom Dennis – My Town Vision   Volunteer Award (sponsored by RSM UK) George Hanvere – Paragon Law Izzy Plummer – TTK Confectionery Taylor Gee – 360 Autoleasing East Midlands

‘Overwhelming’ support to improve Junction 28 of M1

Michael Fisher
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‘Overwhelming’ support to improve Junction 28 of M1
Consumer research conducted by Midlands Connect shows that the 82% of Ashfield or Bolsover residents surveyed would support improvements to upgrade Junction 28 of the M1 in Derbyshire. Junction 28 has, in recent years, become famous for the number of queues which build up every day from vehicles leaving the motorway and either heading off towards Mansfield and Nottingham or down the A38 towards Derby. There are also concerns about the level of noise and air pollution from cars and HGVs that are at the junction, especially around rush hour. The poll showed that 82% of respondents supported improvements being planned and just 6% said they did not. Over half (51%) of respondents questioned said the improvements of Junction 28 would be ‘very important’ for many businesses in South Normanton and Pinxton, with 33% of respondents saying the same for residents in this area. A further 47% said this upgrade would be ‘quite important’ for businesses and for residents (55%), both in South Normanton and Pinxton. Compared to just 2% who said it would not be important to businesses there. In Ashfield 89% of respondents said improving the junction on the M1 would be important* to residents, with this increasing to 94% when asked specifically to respondents from Ashfield. 80% of respondents deemed the project, in their mind, as levelling up and 83% supported the project of improving Junction 28 of the M1 even though we are in a climate emergency. This scheme is a Midlands Connect priority project and we will be submitting it to the government for funding as our ask for third round of the Road Investment Strategy. We have created our shortlist of priorities through our programme of strategic studies, route strategies, specific areas of research and work with stakeholders. We ask for these schemes to be developed as part of Road Investment Strategy pipeline of schemes that may be built, if supported by government, in the third road investment period which runs from 2025 to 2030. Commenting on the consumer research, Midlands Connect Head of Roads Swati Mittal said:  “These figures bare out what I heard at the recent roundtable hosted by Mark Fletcher MP, this scheme is overwhelmingly supported in the local community and is a key priority for Midlands Connect. “We believe that this project will create jobs and generate economic benefits for the whole region, at the same time as maintaining our roads for today’s drivers. We will reduce our own carbon emissions, and support government’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.” Councillor Carolyn Renwick, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment, said: “Junction 28 is a busy interchange and gateway to and from the M1 for traffic travelling from Alfreton, Derby, Mansfield and Ashfield as well as the immediate surrounding area. “It also serves the increasingly popular East Midlands Designer outlet and nearby Clover Nook Industrial Estate as well as other key employment zones in Nottinghamshire. “We wholeheartedly support the bid for Government funding to keep this part of Derbyshire moving by easing congestion to improve journey times for businesses, commuters, residents and visitors alike and cut carbon emissions generated by vehicles caught up in lengthy queues.” Commenting further, Mark Fletcher MP, Member of Parliament for Bolsover added: ‘’This data supports what I have been hearing from local residents in South Normanton and Pinxton since being elected in 2019 – that the project has overwhelming support from local community. In March I held a junction 28 roundtable to bring together local businesses and politicians in support of this project and in the coming weeks I will be submitting a petition alongside the results I have received from my local survey to help strengthen the strategic business case. These improvements are long overdue and are absolutely essential for the economic development of the region. Residents in Bolsover and Ashfield clearly agree it is a key part of our levelling-up agenda. I look forward to working with Midlands Connect and other stakeholders to deliver this vital infrastructure project for the Bolsover constituency and wider East Midlands.’’

BHP Digital Finance appoints new senior manager

Michael Fisher
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BHP Digital Finance appoints new senior manager
BHP has appointed a new senior manager to its Digital Finance team. James Houseman has worked in BHP’s Tax team since 2020 and has extensive industry experience, including a previous role at McLaren Automotive where he worked as a Finance Manager prior to joining BHP. James now joins the Digital Finance department, which supports businesses throughout their growth and development using the latest in accountancy technology. He said: “Digital finance is an exciting and fast-moving field. I’m delighted to be joining the team and look forward to sharing my experience. “I’m keen to be part of the wider finance function and the problem solving that comes with this new role, which is something I really enjoyed being involved with at McLaren. “I’m ready for the challenge of having a big team to look after and being a trusted business advisor for clients.” BHP’s team of digital finance specialists has expanded substantially in recent months, adding five new starters since the beginning of the year, and now totals 39 people. Dermot Lucid, Digital Finance Partner at BHP, said: “James has been a key member of the BHP team since he joined us two years ago and his tax expertise will be an asset to Digital Finance. I’m looking forward to seeing the team move forward and build on the huge progress we’ve made in recent months.”  

Planning secured for almost 300 homes in Langold

Tess Egginton
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Planning secured for almost 300 homes in Langold
A reserved matters planning application for 296 new homes in Langold has been approved by Bassetlaw District Council, North Nottinghamshire. Having obtained the outline planning permission for the landowners, Pegasus Group have now secured the approval of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of the development on behalf of Barratt Homes on land to the north and west of Chestnut Road. Chris Calvert, executive director based in Pegasus Group’s Leeds office, said: “We are delighted that planning permission for this development has been granted. “The client and the team worked very closely with council officers, making revisions to the scheme that were significant and directly addressed policies within the Neighbourhood Plan, while also meeting the technical and environmental constraints of the site. “Ultimately, that collaboration has resulted in a development that will bring significant benefits to the community, including:
  • 15% of the properties will be designated affordable housing, including some bungalows
  • public open space, including the provision of a sports pitch
  • the provision of new bus stops.”
In a statement, the council confirmed: “The Local Planning Authority has worked positively and proactively with the applicant to seek solutions to problems arising from the application and as such planning permission/consent is granted on the basis of amendments to the originally submitted application.” The 296 properties are set to meet the needs of a wide range of residents with the two, three and four-bedroom homes in a number of different styles. Access to the development is via Doncaster Road which was approved as part of the outline planning permission in December 2018. Pegasus Group provided public consultation, planning, highways and landscape advice.

Boost your business at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022

Tess Egginton
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0
Boost your business at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022
Boost your business, its reputation, and your team’s morale by entering the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022! Celebrating the region’s property and construction industry, its people, and outstanding developments, the annual awards attract leaders from across the region and are the perfect way for businesses to promote themselves and those they work with. Award categories include: most active estate agent, commercial development of the year, responsible business of the year, residential development of the year, developer of the year, deal of the year, architects of the year, excellence in design, sustainable development of the year, contractor of the year, and overall winner. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 15 September, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening that will also provide plenty of opportunities to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region. After winning an award at the 2021 event, Allan Joyce Architects said: “We are delighted to have won Architects of the Year at the East Midlands Bricks Awards. It is lovely for the whole team, who always work incredibly hard to create amazing designs, to be recognised in this way. It was wonderful to attend the event in person and to hear about all of the great projects happening in our region and the companies involved in them.” To submit a business or development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022 will also be awarded a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000. Find out who last year’s winners were here.

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the awards event – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on 15 September 2022 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge County Cricket Club from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. The event will also welcome John Forkin MBE DL, Managing Director at award-winning investment promotion agency Marketing Derby, as keynote speaker, as well as award-winning mind reader, magician, and professional mentalist Looch, who will bewilder and astonish guests during the evening’s networking. Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:                                      

To be held at:

Leicester independent financial advice firm acquires clients of Mountsorrel business

Tess Egginton
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0
Leicester independent financial advice firm acquires clients of Mountsorrel business
Westerby Investment Management has completed an acquisition of the clients of the independent financial advice company, Blythin & Brown Financial Solutions Ltd (BBFS). BBFS is the financial services arm of Mountsorrel-based general business insurance broker Blythin & Brown Insurance Brokers Ltd. The completion of the acquisition this month (May) means Leicester-based independent financial advice company Westerby Investment Management Ltd will experience a significant increase in its funds under management. As the deal was confirmed, Westerby Group Managing Director Steve Harvey said: “We are delighted to announce this client acquisition which will provide continuity to Blythin & Brown Insurance Brokers Ltd.’s proposition. “Having provided a financial advice solution to its customers for over 50 years, the Blythin & Brown ethos and synergy aligns perfectly with Westerby. We are looking forward to this exciting new chapter with Blythin & Brown Insurance Brokers Ltd.” Westerby Group chairman Les McLintic added: “Traditionally, Westerby has grown organically. This latest acquisition will not only boost that growth strategy, but it will also contribute to our long-term future in the industry for clients old and new.” Blythin & Brown Insurance Brokers Ltd.’s owners Jonathan Blythin & Richard Picton said: “With the intended retirement of Richard Blythin, we were looking for a safe pair of hands to expand our financial advice proposition via a strategic partnership. Choosing Westerby was easy because the synergy of independence, culture and service levels align. “Also, having a long-standing relationship with Westerby cemented the decision. The Blythin & Brown team are looking forward to working closely with Westerby in our various professional propositions in the future to ensure continuity of service for our new and existing commercial and private insurance clients.” The retention of staff will enable consistency whilst the two businesses are integrated. Westerby also assured Blythin & Brown Financial Solutions Ltd.’s clients and professional connections that the high standards of service and advice they are accustomed to will continue through Westerby’s professional services.

LLEP reaffirms support for partners as region moves towards next stage of County Deal negotiations

Tess Egginton
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LLEP reaffirms support for partners as region moves towards next stage of County Deal negotiations

Interim chair Andy Reed OBE has reiterated LLEP support for local partners as they move forward in negotiations with Government over a proposed County Deal for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

The LLEP will continue to work closely with the local authorities as they reach the best settlement for the local economy during talks over a potential Level 2 deal.

Leicestershire was one of nine areas to be invited to bid for a County Deal when the Government published its Levelling Up White Paper in February.

The extent of powers and funding to be devolved under County Deals will be pegged at one of three levels depending upon local circumstances – with Level 3 representing the greatest devolution of responsibilities.

Government requires Level 3 bids to have what it terms a Functional Economic Area. In the LLEP area this would have meant both Leicester and Leicestershire councils, with the possible addition of Rutland, operating under a single regional Mayor.

The first stage of negotiations with Government has concluded without agreement being reached for a Level 3 bid. Further negotiations will now take place over a proposed Level 2 agreement based on a non-mayoral combined authority in which Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland’s three upper-tier councils work together on regional projects.

Leicestershire County Council leader Nick Rushton last week told councillors that the county council would continue working with all partners, including the LLEP.

Andy Reed OBE, interim chair of the LLEP Board, said: “We must accept the situation and that the region at least has the opportunity of bidding for a Level 2 Deal. As such, the LLEP will continue to work closely with partners including county, city and district councils to reach the best agreement for our local economy.”

The Levelling Up White Paper suggested that the future role of LEPs may change under County Deals. For example, existing LEP powers over spending on local infrastructure, such as large transport and building projects, could potentially be devolved to local authorities under the terms of a County Deal.

Government has stressed that LEPs will continue to play an important role. This could include serving as a business voice, managing skills and apprenticeships, or running growth hubs to increase productivity among small businesses. The LLEP has already committed to supporting Government as it introduces its Levelling Up agenda.

Meanwhile, the Government’s £2.6billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund launched in April and will start accepting its first funding submissions in June. It replaces EU structural funds and is designed to devolve funding to local authorities to invest in communities, local business, and people and skills.

Much investment in these areas has been delivered by the LLEP over the last decade and it is now in discussions with partners as they work together to achieve the ambitions of the 12 Missions set out in the Levelling Up White Paper.

Mr Reed said: “As we await further clarity on County Deal, we will continue working with partners to invest funding in infrastructure and projects as we make our area more innovative, sustainable and inclusive.

“We will also continue working hard to ensure the voice of business is heard locally and nationally and that its opinions and ideas help shape what a good deal would look like for the Leicestershire economy.”

Mr Reed said the LLEP remains focussed on supporting the best deal possible for local business and on integrating any future County Deal with minimum disruption for services.

“There is still a long way to go with the County Deal process and final details will be months and years down the line,” he added.

“In the meantime, we are very aware of the extremely difficult economic climate residents and businesses face in the immediate future.

“Both the LLEP and the Business Gateway Growth Hub will continue doing all within their powers to support people and businesses across Leicester and Leicestershire through the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Commercial office fit-out specialists expand team

Tess Egginton
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0
Commercial office fit-out specialists expand team

Workplace consultants and commercial office fit-out specialists, Blueprint Interiors has expanded its team following the appointment of Kate Bennett as a project designer and Martyna Paluszkiewicz as pre-construction manager.

Kate joins an all-female design team that collectively has over 55 years of experience and degrees from three top class design universities. In her new role, Kate will be responsible for discussing and defining design briefs, space planning and specifying materials. She will then translate these ideas into visual concepts for presentation to clients for approval.

Martyna has a background in commercial fit out and joinery and will be responsible for overseeing projects from the briefing stage, right through to completion. She will ensure the scope of work is defined accurately and transfers to post contract stage, ensuring it runs smoothly and the highest quality fit-out standards are achieved.

Commenting on her appointment, Martyna said: “WorkLife Central is an amazing place to work with a friendly atmosphere and great people. From day one I have felt like part of the team and I am looking forward to making a positive contribution to the company in order to ensure our clients’ offices meet their business objectives and the design brief.”

Kate added: “I have worked across most industry sectors and so I have a wide variety of transferrable skills and experience which I’m almost certain I will be able to bring to my new role. Our ‘people first’ approach starts within our great office in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, and I can’t wait to advise other employers how they can benefit from this ethos.  By involving us during the feasibility stages of their decision we can help to ensure their space meets the needs of their people.”

East Midlands start-up businesses drop as economy bites deeper

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East Midlands start-up businesses drop as economy bites deeper

The number of new businesses set up in the East Midlands has fallen to its lowest point this year, as record levels of inflation and other key economic stressors start to impact on post-pandemic recovery.

Latest research from the Midlands branch of national insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 shows that there were 2,199 start-ups in the East Midlands in April, an 18% decrease on the March figure of 2,675, and 3% below the 2,257 statistic for February.

R3’s research, which is based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, highlights the effect that the current climate of spiralling inflation, a contracting economy and decreasing consumer confidence is having on the region’s entrepreneurs.

R3 Midlands chair Eddie Williams, partner at PwC in the region, said: “The statistics have revealed that, during the first quarter of 2022, there was an overall increase in start-ups in the East Midlands, many of which were led by individuals who were furloughed or made redundant during the pandemic and who used the lockdowns as a springboard to venture out on their own.

“However, with news that prices are now rising at their fastest rate for 40 years and that UK inflation jumped by 7% between March and April, it appears that the region’s entrepreneurial spirit has been significantly dampened.

“With the global, national and local economies facing enormous challenge, the majority of start-ups are having to fight hard to survive and grow, particularly as they set up and bed in new operating controls and procedures as well as establish and build relationships with suppliers, customers, employees and other stakeholders.

“For those new businesses whose directors may be worried about its situation, the sooner professional advice is sought, the more opportunities may be available to support a company’s survival and future success. Many R3 members offer a free consultation to those who are looking for such help and want to explore their options.”

MHR supports The Queen’s Green Canopy amid ongoing sustainability drive

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MHR supports The Queen’s Green Canopy amid ongoing sustainability drive

John Mills, president and founder of MHR International, the HR, payroll, finance, and learning expert, has marked the company’s celebrations of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by planting a new tree in the grounds of MHR’s headquarters as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy, a national initiative inviting people to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’.

The new hornbeam tree has been planted among 107 other mature hornbeam trees at MHR’s Ruddington Hall HQ in Nottinghamshire, which all sit in a 19-acre section of the grounds now named the ‘Queen’s Green Canopy Garden’ in honour of the occasion. The Jubilee tree planting not only celebrates the landmark anniversary, but also forms part of MHR’s continued commitment to sustainability, having been listed among the top 500 most sustainable companies in the Midlands.

This latest initiative forms part of MHR’s ongoing investment in both conservational and environmental maintenance, having undertaken significant work to protect and preserve its headquarters at Ruddington Hall and the surrounding grounds, where it has planted a large number of trees over the years, as well as those at its new office campus, a six-acre site on Mere Way at the Ruddington Business Park.

The development of MHR’s offices also reinforces the UN Sustainable Development Goals, built with an ethos of supporting local trade and businesses, whether for maintenance, decoration, or refurbishment.

John Mills, president and founder of MHR, who holds a Royal Warrant for Supply of Payroll and HR Systems to Her Majesty The Queen, said: “At MHR we are very proud to play a small role in commemorating The Queen’s 70-year long reign and decades of remarkable devotion to a life of service to the nation.

“The Queen’s Green Canopy is a wonderful initiative, and we wanted to create a lasting and physical memory of this special occasion  by dedicating a garden to The Queen in the grounds of Ruddington Hall. The planting of the 108th tree will stand proud alongside the many others we’re fortunate to have surrounding us.

“While we take pride in maintaining the MHR grounds, we also take this out into the local community too, making sure our younger generations can also enjoy green spaces. Supported by a team of colleagues, we recently helped to restore the Loughborough-based Rainbows Children Hospice’s Eco Garden at the end of 2021.

“The project has created a tranquil space in which over 300 children and young people cared for and supported by Rainbows, as well as their families, can reflect, recharge, and enjoy. We’ll soon be undertaking another great project for the hospice by painting the fence in the Remembrance Garden.

“We do this every year as part of a continuous relationship to maintain the space for the families that use it, and we’ll be back again this September. I’m pleased we can give something back for future generations by supporting these types of sustainable legacies,” added Mr Mills.

The Queen’s Green Canopy is a unique tree-planting initiative created specifically to commemorate The Queen’s 70-year reign. Everyone from individuals to community organisations, schools, and businesses, is invited to plant a tree, creating a legacy in honour of The Queen’s leadership over seven decades and to benefit future generations.

Blaby District Council’s Garden Village ambitions receive funding boost

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Blaby District Council’s Garden Village ambitions receive funding boost
A further £135,000 in Central Government funding has been received to help Blaby District Council continue its ambitious plans for a potential future Garden Village site. Set against the challenge for local authorities to provide large numbers of additional new homes in the coming decades, the Council says it has worked proactively to carry out its responsibility of planning for this need. Whetstone Pastures, a proposed development in the south-east of the district, was one of only 19 local authorities to be awarded Garden Village status in 2019 by the then Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, now Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. The Council has previously received £300,000 of capacity funding since this status was awarded in 2019. Garden Villages are a Government initiative for proposed developments of between 1,500 and 10,000 homes. The status ensures that any site has a mixture of housing, housing types, green spaces, employment opportunities, and social infrastructure, all delivered with strong local vision and engagement, with the aim of creating sustainable, vibrant, diverse and, importantly, affordable communities. The Council has now been given a further £135,000 for the next stage of this pro-active growth of the district to ensure that larger-scale, sustainable development sites are utilised to be the home of future district residents and to help prevent existing communities losing their sense of identity. This capacity funding will be used for specialists advising the Council on matters including master planning, urban design, and viability. Blaby District Council considers it vital that developments like this are shaped to include those things deemed to be essential for a sustainable and future proofed true Garden Village Community. The funding will also boost resource within the Council’s Planning Department, helping to ensure that whilst the development if approved is still many years away, Blaby District Council are able to input into the proposal at the earliest possible stage. It is important to note that the site does not benefit from planning permission, nor does it have any planning status in terms of an allocation in the Council’s Local Plan. Any proposals must go through the planning application process before receiving any permission. Councillor Terry Richardson, leader of Blaby District Council, said: “This Government funding is something all residents should be delighted with. “We have to keep making sure that the homes we need to build are placed in sustainable communities. If we don’t do this our only other choice is to add on large numbers of houses to existing villages. “If permission for this proposed Garden Village is given, we can work hard to plan and take control of how new communities look. Our track record with New Lubbesthorpe proves this is something we are excellent at doing. “We are confident that Blaby District Council can and will deliver and, in turn, protect our existing towns and villages.”

Council creates new hope for derelict grammar school with plans for mixed-use development

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Council creates new hope for derelict grammar school with plans for mixed-use development
Amber Valley Borough Council has taken ownership of the former Heanor Grammar School and has commenced with developing proposals for returning the building to its former glory. The council has acquired the site in support of its Future High Streets project, which has secured £8.6m of Government funding, as part of an overall £17.8m town centre regeneration programme. The future of the former school, in Mundy Street, Heanor, which was previously owned by Derby firm Vale Property Limited, has been a subject of discussion for a number of years, with local residents growing increasingly concerned as the building visibly deteriorated. Having now secured the Grade II-listed building for redevelopment, Amber Valley Borough Council now plans to see it restored and repurposed as a mixed-use development, with some work and business space, as well as community facilities for local residents to use. The council has moved quickly to appoint an architect who is experienced in sensitive historic buildings and has commenced the process to appoint the principal contractor to move the project forward quickly due to tight deadlines. Councillor Tony Harper, Amber Valley’s cabinet member for regeneration, said: “It is with huge pleasure that we are able to announce the acquisition of the former grammar school site. “I’m also pleased that we’ve been able to hit the ground running, by appointing the architect and commencing the procurement of the principal contractor, so that we can meet what are very challenging deadlines. “The council is fully aware of how important the building is to the local community and also Heanor’s heritage, and we will now be in a position to preserve and re-purpose it for future generations.” Relevant partners and members of the community will be invited to help shape the overall development through a planned consultation process. Previous plans by the former owner to turn the listed building into 24 apartments, with a further nine apartments in the former science block and 19 homes in the school grounds, were turned down in 2018. Heanor Grammar School operated at the site from 1912 until 1976, at which point it became an annex of South East Derbyshire College before being taken over by Derby College in 2010.

Garden Communities schemes to get funding injection in North Northamptonshire

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Garden Communities schemes to get funding injection in North Northamptonshire
A funding injection for new Garden Communities which will put green, wildlife friendly spaces at the heart of new development has been welcomed by North Northamptonshire Council. The Government has announced that the Council will receive money to take forward projects in support of Hanwood Park in Kettering, and Stanton Cross in Wellingborough. Both projects will deliver footpath/cycleway infrastructure, integrating these new communities into routes that follow the Ise Valley Way, receiving £200,000, and the Nene Greenway receiving £241,000. Tresham Garden Village is another new Garden Community receiving funding support from the Government in its planning. The development of the garden communities is key to regenerating local areas by providing housing and creating job opportunities. The programme provides support to progress long-term major housing projects from their earliest stages. It enables local authorities to recruit specialist staff, undertake the required planning and receive advice and support from the housing delivery body, Homes England. The announcement builds on plans in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill to put beauty and nature at the heart of new development design, with the introduction of mandatory design codes, which will make sure developers respect styles drawn up and favoured locally – from the layout or materials used, to how it provides green space. Cllr Jason Smithers, leader of the Council, said: “This is fantastic news for North Northamptonshire and is a terrific boost for us to be able to provide the homes and jobs which are necessary to allow growth and prosperity to thrive in our communities. “We want North Northants to prosper and flourish and be an area that creates great opportunities for our residents, while at the same time being mindful of our environment. Garden Communities are an innovative way of managing long term growth and I’m delighted to see these projects moving forward.” Cllr David Brackenbury, the Council’s executive member for growth and regeneration, said: “It is a huge undertaking for the Council to plan and manage these projects to deliver the high-quality development and infrastructure that our communities rightfully expect. The funding from the Government recognises this. “This is exciting news for North Northamptonshire as the Garden Communities offer a positive vision for how development can take place in a sustainable way that respects the existing communities and environment.”

Plans submitted for Health & Wellbeing Hub

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Plans submitted for Health & Wellbeing Hub
Architects working on behalf of Bassetlaw District Council have submitted a planning application to develop a vacant site owned by the Council on Newgate Street into a Health and Wellbeing Hub. Located next to Newgate Medical Practice, the proposed development would be built by Bassetlaw District Council and leased to the NHS. Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Simon Greaves, said: “We are working in partnership with the NHS and Newgate Medical Practice to bring forward a vacant site and deliver a new Health and Wellbeing Hub that will benefit residents and patients across the area. A great deal of work has taken place to get us to the current stage. “The submission of the planning application is an important milestone and highlights the ambition of the Council and our NHS partners. The development is still subject to planning permission and NHS funding, but I am hopeful that we could see works begin over the next year.” A spokesperson for Bassetlaw CCG said: “NHS Bassetlaw continues to work in close collaboration with Bassetlaw District Council and Newgate Medical Group to support the development of a high quality Health and Wellbeing Hub adjacent to the current site of the Newgate Medical Practice. “A business case is being developed which seeks to attract several million pounds of NHS investment and, if successful, would mean the commencement of work within the next 12 months.”

Half of firms now more likely to invest in carbon reduction measures

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Half of firms now more likely to invest in carbon reduction measures
New data from the Institute of Directors shows that, as a result of rising energy costs, half of businesses are now more likely to invest in carbon reduction measures.
In a survey of nearly 600 business leaders, 16% also agreed that rising energy costs would make them more likely to invest in carbon reduction measures in the short term, 28% in the medium term and 22% in the long term. Alex (Alexandra) Hall-Chen, senior policy advisor at the Institute of Directors, said: “With rocketing energy prices, many businesses are increasingly looking at investing in carbon reduction measures to ensure that they are more resilient to the impacts of energy price volatility in the short, medium and longer term. “However, businesses also need clear signals from government to encourage long-term planning to move towards net zero. That is why we have called on government to introduce a lower corporation tax rate for companies that achieve net zero.” In its recent policy paper, ‘The Green Incentive: how to put net zero at the heart of business planning’, the IoD has put forward proposals to provide businesses, and particularly SMEs, with an effective incentive to play their part in decarbonising the economy.
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