New LLEP directors introduced

Tess Egginton
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New LLEP directors introduced

Three new directors have been welcomed onto the Board of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) during an in-person AGM at City Hall.

The trio were officially announced during the annual general meeting in Leicester on Wednesday evening.

They will be among 19 LLEP directors tasked with making decisions relating to the delivery of the objectives and outcomes set out in the Economic Growth Strategy.

The new directors, who take up their roles after a public recruitment exercise during the summer, are:

  • Gosia Khrais, commercial and marketing director, Charnwood Campus

  • Jo Tallack, senior general manager, Highcross Leicester

  • Glynis Wright MBE, partner, Nelsons Solicitors

The LLEP Board comprises 16 directors. They are ambassadors for Leicester and Leicestershire at local, national and international level. The roles are unpaid and last for a minimum term of three years.

Elsewhere in the meeting, LLEP co-chair Anil Majithia offered thanks to the two directors who stepped down from the Board over the last 12 months.

Former LLEP chair Kevin Harris, Leicester managing partner for RSM UK, and Jaspal Singh Minas, who served as president of the Leicestershire Asian Business Association (LABA) and led the formation of the National Asian Business Association, were each recognised for their work over the last eight years.

Mr Majithia said: “We thank Kevin and Jaspal for their commitment and leadership since 2014 and also welcome Gosia, Jo and Glynis to the LLEP Board.

“Each is a well-known and respected local leader with a deep knowledge of their sector and of regional and national networks.

“We know that they will contribute a great deal to the LLEP and look forward to them getting started.”

Seven existing directors were reappointed to serve further three-years terms on the Board. They are:

  • Andy Reed OBE, founder, Saje Impact

  • Anil Majithia, chair, Regional Advisory Board East Midlands, Canal and River Trust

  • Emma Anderson, director, Freeths LLP

  • Dr Nik Kotecha DL OBE, chairman, Morningside Pharmaceuticals Ltd

  • Neil McGhee, Chief Executive, Sempervox Ltd

  • Chas Bishop, Chief Executive, National Space Centre

  • Verity Hancock, principal, Leicester College

The National Local Growth Assurance Framework requires all LEPs to meet minimum diversity requirements. The LLEP must have a minimum of one third female representation. This week’s changes mean that it now has nine female directors and 10 male.

Elsewhere at the AGM, LLEP co-chair Mr Reed presented the LLEP’s Annual Report while Mr Majithia described the annual Financial Statement.

Loughborough University updated on progress at the £9m SportPark 4, which is being part-funded through the Getting Building Fund and is nearing completion.

There was also a public Q&A which included an update on the ongoing County Deal talks, with Mr Reed noting that any future devolution would take several years to introduce.

He closed the meeting by thanking directors and staff for their ongoing work and commitment through uncertain times.

Board Members play a key role in helping the LLEP to shape the local economy by influencing local and national government, as well as providing effective governance to the partnership.

They shape and deliver the Midlands Engine Strategy and the Government’s Levelling up agenda, acting as ambassadors for Leicester and Leicestershire at a local, regional and national level and making key local investment decisions.

Connectivity Survey highlights significant areas of concerns for SME’s

Steve Fisher
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Connectivity Survey highlights significant areas of concerns for SME’s
Cost, a lack of time, and inflexibility are the leading challenges faced by SMEs when it comes to managing their digital tools, according to the British Chambers of Commerce. After a survey of more than 900 firms, the BCC says the results come at a time when SMEs are already facing an uphill battle to survive with rising inflation, spiralling energy costs and low growth risking long-term prosperity. The management of digital tools stood out as a significant cause for concern for SMEs, with almost four in ten believing they did not have the capacity to effectively manage multiple ICT suppliers, contracts, and licences. A quarter did not feel that their digital tools were resilient enough to help protect their business from emerging trends; just over a fifth did not feel that their digital tools were secure, whilst 17% disagreed their current suppliers of connectivity tools enabled them to adapt to changing circumstances. BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland said:“In an environment where businesses are facing spiralling energy costs, record inflation and a declining economy, firms must feel confident in the technology they rely on to serve their needs and carry them into the future. “Our Connectivity Survey has highlighted significant areas of concerns for businesses, with firms expressing particularly low levels of confidence in the flexibility and value for money offered to them by suppliers. “With BCC data highlighting the huge challenges businesses are facing in the current economic environment, now more than ever, they need help wherever they can find it. Finding the right connectivity tools for firms can not only save time and money, it can also help future-proof businesses against further challenges down the line. “Suppliers of digital tools and services must work with businesses, in particular small and medium sized businesses, to ensure that they find their right fit and reap the benefits of a flexible and secure connectivity offering.”

New Global HQ for Frasers raises questions over future of Shirebrook base

Steve Fisher
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New Global HQ for Frasers raises questions over future of Shirebrook base
High street retail group Frasers has announced major investment plans into a Global Headquarters Campus at Ansty in Rugby, Warwickshire, in the heart of the country. The company, which owns household names such as Sports Direct, House of Fraser, Game and Evans Cycles say the project will support the continued growth of the business and allow the business to drive productivity, growth, and innovation across the UK and globally. However, the investment also raises questions over the future of the company’s current Shirebrook base. A spokesperson for the company states: “Frasers Group is proposing to deliver an exceptional campus environment, reflecting quality design, operation, and sustainability. It will be landscape-led, driven by responsible and sustainable design principles. Where possible it will retain, reinforce, and enhance the existing landscape character and features. “The proposals will also benefit the community, with several features open to the public. This will include a gym, swimming and sports hub, with bookable courts and pitches, and conferencing and training facilities. The enhanced landscape features will also include open space which will be accessible to all.” The new Global Headquarters Campus is planned for land at Junction 2 of the M6 sitting adjacent to the strategic motorway network – connected to all regions of the UK by road, rail, and air.  
 

4 reasons Leicester businesses should go green

Tess Egginton
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4 reasons Leicester businesses should go green
Leicester has committed to developing more green policies and making better changes, which is reflected by the people and businesses of the city. Businesses looking to succeed in the city should look to go green and make changes where possible. Read on to learn about four reasons Leicester-based businesses should do this. It Will Match The Environment City The first reason Leicester-based businesses should go green is that it will suit the city. That’s because the city of Leicester was Britain’s first Environment City. The city’s greening was praised during the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio. On the international stage, Leicester is considered at the forefront of urban nature conservation with a strong emphasis on sustainable development. If you are looking to open a business in Leicester or have an existing business in the area, going green would be an important part of your business strategy. It Can Lead To Extra Cash An unexpected reason to go green in Leicester is that it can lead to extra cash. This can be obtained in a few different ways. Leicester-specific businesses may be eligible for up to £7k if they go green through certain schemes. This relates to reducing their carbon emissions and general energy efficiency. This works by ensuring the businesses use more energy-efficient changes such as solar panels or heat pumps. Businesses can also save extra cash by changing their supply chain. They can find a more sustainable supplier that reduces the number of trips they take, allowing you to get more of what you need and reduce the amount of money you’re paying for the service. If you manage to go greener with energy use, you should spend less overall. This is because you will use less energy, reducing your bills. If you use effective green policies, then you should be able to attract more modern customers. It Will Allow The Business To Do More Good One of the most important reasons Leicester businesses should look to go green is that it is ethically the right thing to do. All businesses should be looking to reduce their waste and carbon footprint to help protect the planet and act in the best interests of the local and global environment. The world is changing, and you need to learn how to guide your business correctly and navigate strategic opportunities that may have been presented by climate change. You can sign up for specific courses that educate you on how to combat climate change within your business. The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership offers an online short course that can help you gain insight into the risks associated with climate change and how to manage them. This can help you create a plan that looks to build upon a profitable business model while being sustainable. Not to mention, you will gain valuable and relevant skills that will allow you to make more informed decisions in the future. Businesses within Leicestershire should be looking to make sustainability a part of their corporate identity. This should start from the top, as it will encourage everyone to do more to enact change. A business can change its culture and be more sustainable by getting more people involved at all levels. It Can Improve Brand Reputation  An added bonus of a green business within the Leicestershire area is that it can help improve brand reputation. Consider the recent green investments that have occurred within the city of Leicester: the addition of bicycles around the city that you can rent has been a success, with the e-bike share scheme undergoing a major expansion. This led to a major reputation boost for the brand, as it provides a useful service while being green. The same result could be obtained for your business. It depends on what industry you are operating in and where your business is situated. If you are looking to start any green policies or launch any green products/services that will interest your customers, then you should advertise them and market them in the right way. Consider what your options could be and what is practical to do. Remember, the reasons that you go green shouldn’t be focused on improving your reputation. It should be done for the right reasons. It’s also worth pointing out that if you are doing it in a disingenuous way, this will harm your reputation, and it could be hard to repair. Ensure you are doing all your research regarding climate change and work hard to create a plan to transform your business to be greener. Leicester is a city at the forefront of environmental change, so you should do all you can to adapt to the changing world and gain more insights to rewire your business model.

Former trainee steps up to managing partner at Leicester-based accountants

Tess Egginton
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Former trainee steps up to managing partner at Leicester-based accountants
Tom Copson will step up to managing partner at Leicester-based chartered accountants Rowleys, after re-joining the firm two years ago as a partner. Tom spent five years at Rowleys as a trainee, prior to joining an international accountancy firm as an auditor. He re-joined the firm in early 2020 after 14 years, his ongoing relationship with some of the partners, coupled with Rowleys’ independence, innovative outlook and agile approach being the key factors in his return. Tom will officially take up the role of managing partner on 1st October and will take the reins from Robert Radford who has been managing partner for the last 15 years. At the same time Craig Shevas, who is the longest standing partner, will step up to senior partner. Craig and Tom will work closely with Paula Swann-Jones and Mark Hook on the strategic direction of the business. The ambition of the partners continues to be the growth of the firm, remaining independent and ensuring clients and its people are at the heart of everything they do. Commenting on his appointment, Tom said: “I’m delighted and proud to be appointed as manager partner and to lead the firm through the next phase of its growth. “Rowleys played a significant role in my early career and I have many fond memories of those first few years. A number of people I worked with back then are still here today, which is testament to the great culture we have. “I want to ensure that we continue to build and develop our team of people, be pro-active as our industry continues to evolve and maintain the friendly and personable culture that we are known for.” Robert adds: “Since joining the firm in early 2020 Tom has brought energy, enthusiasm and a true passion to deliver a great experience for our clients and our people. Tom, working with the other partners and Rowleys’ strong management team, will take the firm to the next phase in its succession.” Craig commented: “With Robert retiring in 2023, myself and the other partners decided that Tom is the ideal person to step up as managing partner. He is extremely dedicated to developing the firm and I’m excited to see what the future holds for Rowleys and our clients.”

trentbarton’s MD Jeff Counsell to retire

Tess Egginton
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trentbarton’s MD Jeff Counsell to retire
trentbarton and Kinchbus Managing Director Jeff Counsell is to retire in February 2023 after 24 years with the company and almost half a century in the bus industry. And in March trentbarton group commercial director Tom Morgan will step up to the newly created role of Managing Director (buses) for all the bus operators of trentbarton’s parent company Wellglade. Jeff started as a 15-year-old engineering apprentice at Lancashire United Transport in the 1970s. He joined trentbarton in 1999 as engineering director and progressed to director of service delivery before becoming Managing Director in 2009. His role directing both operations and engineering also encompassed the two companies’ relationships with national and local government, an aspect which has been of prime importance during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond. Jeff said: “Throughout my years the industry has seen many opportunities and challenges including deregulation, recessions and the pandemic. But our industry is all about people and our people at trentbarton and Kinchbus always pull together. “It’s a great team – from the bottom to the top. Our frontline staff are always impressive. Our drivers, our engineers, everyone, they never flinch from the challenges. I’m deeply proud of them and will miss being with them.” Wellglade chairman Brian King said: “Jeff has played a key role in keeping trentbarton and Kinchbus at the forefront of the bus industry. “They have won numerous awards from not only the bus industry but also the business community. When he retires next February, he will be able to look back proudly on his career in buses. “Tom’s new role will cover the commercial, operational and external relations activities of our bus companies. He knows the businesses and the area well from his current and previous positions.” Tom Morgan joined Wellglade in 2009 to work on the Nottingham Tramlink project and has subsequently been trentbarton’s assistant operations manager for Derby and the general manager at Kinchbus.
Tom Morgan
Tom said: “I’m very grateful to Jeff for his guidance and faith since bringing me into the business in 2009 and for the chances to progress in my career. I’m incredibly excited about what lies ahead. “The bus industry has gone through a difficult time, but the future is full of opportunities which we are well placed to grasp by listening to our customers, maintaining our high standards, continuing to innovate, embrace new technology and by investing in and empowering our dedicated and passionate team members.”

Residential development set for former Atherstone Hunt kennels as site sold

Tess Egginton
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Residential development set for former Atherstone Hunt kennels as site sold
Burton-based commercial property agents Rushton Hickman and their joint agent Gareth Holland & Co. have sold the former Atherstone Hunt kennels in Witherely, near to Atherstone in Leicestershire, on behalf of the Thorpe Estate. The site became vacant in October 2019 following the Atherstone Hunt announcing they would cease hunting activities after nearly 200 years. Outline planning consent was granted in January 2022 for redevelopment of the site’s existing historic buildings into a complex of six two-bedroom homes and a trio of three-bedroom properties as well as a new cottage style three-bedroom home. Following a short marketing period for the sale of the property by method of informal tender with a guide price of £1,200,000, a local housing developer purchased the site with a winning bid of £1,250,000. Rushton Hickman director Mark Richardson said: “The competition to purchase this site was fierce. Interest in residential schemes is still high as the continued upward trajectory of house prices and Gross Development Values is able to offset this. “The end product of something as unique as this scheme was also obviously going to fetch a premium. The fantastic result we’ve had for our client in achieving in excess of the guide price is testament to that.” Graham Bancroft, director of Rushton Hickman, added: “The interest in residential development sites remains strong. We have achieved sales on several land opportunities over recent months and I am pleased to say we have yet more we are still to bring to market.”

Ground-breaking lawyer joins University Law Society as president

Steve Fisher
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Ground-breaking lawyer joins University Law Society as president
Leicester University Law Society has announced that I. Stephanie Boyce will act as its president for the next academic year, starting in October 2022. Each year the society appoints a senior member of the judiciary or legal sector to take up the position to represent the standards and values of the society. I. Stephanie Boyce made history when she became the first person of colour to become the president of the Law Society of England and Wales in March 2021. She is also the sixth woman to hold the position. Graduating from London Guildhall University in 1999, Stephanie was admitted as a solicitor in 2002. Her legal career has focussed on corporate governance, public and regulatory law advising some of the largest not-for-profit bodies, charities, regulators and government bodies. As president of Leicester University Law Society, I. Stephanie Boyce will make an annual Presidential Address at University of Leicester’s law school in March. Previous presidents to have addressed students at the University of Leicester have been Sir Nicholas Green KC, Sir Terence Etherton and Lord Neuberger. Former president Ms Justice Cheema-Grubb addressed students during their graduation in 2020. I. Stephanie Boyce said: “I am deeply honoured to become president of Leicester University Law Society. I follow in a line of remarkable presidents, and I resolve to build upon their legacy. “Studying Law at university should be an opportunity open to all talented prospective students irrespective of their background. “I will not only seek to encourage applicants from a broad range of backgrounds to apply to study Law at Leicester but as importantly, to demystify Law as a subject for anyone who might be contemplating studying it at degree level but for those who do to connect and seize brilliant opportunities.” Professor Sally Kyd, Head of Leicester Law School, said “That I. Stephanie Boyce has accepted the position of President of LULS is excellent news for the School and our students. “Her commitment to demystifying the law aligns perfectly with our ethos for legal education at Leicester, and the opportunity to hear directly from someone who has achieved such a high standing in the legal profession will no doubt provide valuable inspiration to our diverse student body.” Ben Follows, Chairperson for Leicester University Law Society, said: “We gratefully welcome I. Stephanie Boyce to the position of LULS President for the upcoming academic year. “She is an exemplary figure in her field for campaigning for a stronger and more diverse legal sector, as well as improving access to justice, and supporting legal education. “In addition, I believe her story and career overcoming challenges will without a doubt provide a shining source of inspiration for our members as they begin their careers.” “We look forward to welcoming I. Stephanie Boyce to the Law School in March for the annual Presidential Address.”

Plans submitted for £67m mixed-use scheme in Boston

Tess Egginton
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Plans submitted for £67m mixed-use scheme in Boston

Residential land specialist Terra has submitted a hybrid planning application for a mixed-use scheme of up to 320 new homes and a care home in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Located on land off Toot Lane, less than two miles from Boston town centre, the £67m hybrid scheme is for a detailed first phase of 153 one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, with the proposed care home and balance of 320 homes submitted in outline form.

The 11Ha (27.3 acre) site, which is shown as a Housing Commitment in the South East Lincolnshire Local Plan adopted in 2019, is located within the Settlement Limits of Boston. Terra has undertaken pre-application engagement with local residents, parish and district councillors.

Two areas of Public Open Space and a fully equipped play area will create focal points for the scheme, while tree, hedgerow and shrub planting will deliver net biodiversity gains.

Jordan Langdon-Bates, land and development director of Terra, said: “We are very pleased to be submitting a Hybrid application for this much-needed mixed-use scheme. With so many employment opportunities close by, Boston is an attractive and affordable place to live, and this highly sustainable scheme will add to the vibrancy of the local area.

“The scale of this well-located site will enable the creation of a high-quality new community of eco-efficient modern homes, within easy reach of town centre amenities and local schooling. Subject to planning approval, this immediately available site could help to meet South East Lincolnshire’s annual housing targets at a time when there is a considerable shortfall in the number of new homes being built across the UK.

“We are looking forward to continuing to work with Boston Borough Council officers, the parish council and all stakeholders as our plans are considered.”

A total of 153 apartments, bungalows and houses are proposed for phase one of the development, comprising 123 build to rent dwellings and 30 affordable housing properties, which represents 20 per cent.

On-plot parking could comprise a mix of driveways, frontage parking, and rear parking courts. The proposed two-storey care home has been specifically designed to be positioned in the north-east corner of the site, covering approximately 0.6Ha (1.5-acres). Hawthorn Tree Primary School is located opposite the entrance to the site, while the rest of the immediate area is predominantly residential.

Planning and design specialists Nineteen47, engineers M-EC and ecology experts fpcr worked with Terra on the plans, which include pedestrian and vehicular access created from Toot Lane.

New Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors at NTU

Steve Fisher
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New Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors at NTU
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) has appointed Caroline Wayman as Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the NTU Board of Governors. Caroline will be succeeding the current Chair, Neil Goulden, when he concludes his term in office in October 2023. Caroline is a current member of the Board of Governors and works as a partner in Financial Services at PA Consulting. Formerly the Chief Ombudsman and Chief Executive of the Financial Ombudsman Service, Caroline was also a member of the Board and Chair of the Nominations and Governance Committee of the Crown Prosecution Service. She was the Senior Independent Director there until June 2022, having joined the board in June 2018. Neil Goulden, Chair of the NTU Board of Governors and Pro-Chancellor said: “We are delighted to welcome Caroline as the new Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors. Caroline has been doing fantastic work since she joined us as a Board member in 2020 and NTU will really benefit from her leadership and experience in this role. I wish Caroline the best of luck with this new position.” Caroline Wayman commented: “I am delighted to be appointed to this role and look forward to helping the University to go from strength to strength. I would like to thank Neil Goulden for his fantastic support and look forward to working closely with him over the next year.” The Board of Governors oversees all of the University’s activities and has legal and constitutional responsibility for the conduct of NTU’s affairs.

Private sector slows at fastest rate since early 2021

Tess Egginton
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Private sector slows at fastest rate since early 2021
Private sector activity fell in the three months to September (balance of -19%, from -5% in August), according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator, and businesses expect the decline to accelerate over the next quarter. The fall over the past quarter was the fastest since February 2021 with activity declining across all sectors. Business volumes in both business & professional services (-14% from -1%) and consumer services (-57% from -37%) fell at a faster rate than in the quarter to August. Meanwhile, distribution sales fell after having grown slightly in the quarter to August (-13% from 7%), and manufacturing output fell at a similar pace as last month (-4% from -7%). Looking ahead to the next three months, private sector activity as a whole is expected to decline at an even quicker pace (-30% from -19%). Prospects have deteriorated across all sectors: services activity (-30% from -25%), manufacturing output (-17% from -4%), and distribution volumes (-44% from -13%) are all expected to decline at a faster rate in the next three months. Alpesh Paleja, CBI lead economist, said: “Across the private sector, firms have had to contend with significant uncertainty surrounding energy costs as well as ongoing supply chain challenges and weaker consumer demand. “While there are fears that economic activity may fall even quicker still next quarter, the Government has only [last] week made some significant moves to shield all businesses from high energy costs, while also setting out its plans to kickstart economic growth. “These bold plays will help in building up fragile business confidence and get firms on the front foot once more.”

Form new connections at the East Midlands Expo

Tess Egginton
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Form new connections at the East Midlands Expo
On Monday 14 November 2022 businesses will flock to the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham for the East Midlands Expo. An established event of over 20 years, the free to attend expo is a prime networking opportunity aimed at the construction, property, business, investment, finance, professional services and related B2B markets. The day, for which Business Link is a proud partner, will begin with exhibitor breakfast networking, with the exhibition opening to attendees at 9am. A seminar will take place between 10:45am and noon with BSP Consulting’s directors Mark Rayers and Tony Goddard lined up to present  ‘Sustainability and how engineering plays its part’. A special networking lunch (for which tickets can be purchased here) will then take place between 12:15pm and 2:15pm, and the exhibition will close 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.

From property agents to developers, architects, contractors, investors, PR firms, and more, see the list of current exhibitors here.

Half-year sales and profits rise at Next

Tess Egginton
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Half-year sales and profits rise at Next
Sales and pre-tax profits have risen at Next, according to the retailer’s half-year results for the 26 weeks ended 30 July 2022. The business has reported a “good first half, with overall sales ahead of expectations.” Next says this was driven by the over-performance of its retail stores and a strong performance from the formal parts of its clothing ranges. Full price sales were up 12.4% versus 2021 and 22.3% against 2019. The company meanwhile posted a profit before tax of £401m, up 16% on 2021 and 22% against 2019. Following the half year results however, August trading was below the group’s expectations, although sales in September have improved. As a result Next has decided to reduce its forecast for full price sales in the second half from +1% to -1.5% versus last year. Furthermore, profit guidance for the full year has been reduced from £860m to £840m, which would be a rise of +2.1% on last year. Charlie Huggins, head of equities at Wealth Club, said: “Next is seen as a bellwether of the UK High Street and today’s cut to full year guidance lays bare the challenges being faced. Asos and Boohoo’s trading performance has been nothing short of dire. Even Primark’s recent trading update called out significant margin pressures. In this context, Next’s half year results are more resilient than most. “The fact that many retailers are struggling shouldn’t be a surprise. This is arguably the most difficult trading environment since the 2008/09 financial crisis. Inflation is at levels not seen for four decades. Sterling is in the doldrums, trading at its weakest level against the dollar since 1985. Add to this, the war in Ukraine and the spectre of further interest rate rises. It’s not exactly conducive to consumers restocking their wardrobes. “Perhaps the biggest issue for the whole sector is that while things look challenging right now, they look set to become even more so. This is due to the precipitous decline in sterling which will only exacerbate inflationary pressures. “Next looks better positioned than most of its peers to weather the storm, and emerge stronger in light of its high margins, robust cash flows and strong balance sheet. But 2023 could be a very difficult year the way things are shaping up.”

Nottingham Building Society to close 17 branches

Steve Fisher
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Nottingham Building Society to close 17 branches
The Nottingham Building Society says it will close a third of its branches due, it says, to “changing consumer behaviour”. A total of 17 branches across East Midlands, including Lincolnshire will close by the end of this year . In a statement, the Nottingham Building Society explain: “Following a detailed review of our branch network we can see the way members are using our branches has changed. People are visiting us less and less each year, reducing the number of times they visit, and using alternative ways to manage their money – over the telephone and online. “In some of our locations there are days where we have very few members transacting in our branches. In others, less than 30% of members have transacted in the branch in the last 12 months. We also have decreasing customer numbers and savings balances in some branches. Whilst we know it doesn’t suit everyone there is a continuing trend towards having the ability to transact digitally and we’ve seen this trend continue post the pandemic. “We have a responsibility to our members to make sure we have an efficient branch network and that we operate in locations where members need and use them the most. We’ve been very thoughtful, and done a significant amount of analysis, to understand the impact branch closures will have. We have looked at the distance to an alternative Nottingham branch, whether there are other financial service providers on the high street or whether we are the last remaining branch. We’ve also considered the impact on colleague morale of working in branches where they have little to no interaction with members. “

Belmayne invites public to talk about finances

Michael Fisher
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Belmayne invites public to talk about finances
Dronfield-based financial planners, Belmayne, are offering free initial consultations with their experienced advisers to mark UK Financial Planning Week. Local residents are invited to book face to face, online or telephone appointments during the week commencing October 3 to learn more about the importance of investing in their future. The independent firm is supporting the national initiative to dispel myths around financial planning and encourage conversations about money. It will also be publishing a series of daily blogs, tackling common issues affecting consumer decisions about pensions and investments. Run by the not-for-profit Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI), Financial Planning Week aims to help consumers build confidence, combat stress and anxiety and deal with the challenges that surround financial decisions. Belmayne partner, Martin Birch, said: “When household finances are stretched to breaking point, many of us put retirement plans on the backburner. However, laying the foundations early is the only way to reach your life goals. We want to encourage consumers to learn as much as they can about the benefits of financial planning and consider their particular circumstances in more detail. Meeting with an independent planner is the best way to start a conversation about the future and the results could be life-changing.” Sally Plant, CISI assistant director, financial planning and education development, added: “It has never been more important to get the message out – that financial literacy is an important tool for life, and financial planning is an essential part of wellbeing and mental fitness. Financial Planning Week helps raise awareness about the role of qualified financial planners in helping people from all walks of life, and all ages – and importantly, not just the wealthy – to think ahead and plan for the future.”

East Midlands manufacturer secures £1.5m furniture and fitout contracts in Scotland

Michael Fisher
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East Midlands manufacturer secures £1.5m furniture and fitout contracts in Scotland
Mansfield-based Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading furniture and fitout specialists, has been awarded its second contract this year for North Lanarkshire Council, taking the value of these orders to £1.5m. The latest project is to provide furniture and fitout services for a £20m community hub in Chryston which is being delivered by hub South West Scotland and their construction partner, Robertson Group. Deanestor will manufacture, procure and install over 5,200 items of furniture and equipment for Chryston Community Hub, including shelving, seating, storage cabinets, worktops, tables, and teaching aids. Designed by Ryder Architecture, this is a shared campus development for primary education and community health provision in a single building. The building will have spaces for up to 509 primary pupils to meet the rising demand for school places in the area. Due for completion in autumn 2023, the hub will also incorporate a community health clinic to support the provision of health services. William Tonkinson, Deanestor Managing Director, said, “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this second project for North Lanarkshire Council. Both schemes are very innovative, using a shared campus approach to deliver state-of-the-art facilities to the benefit of the local communities.” “Chryston Community Hub is a really unique scheme and a flagship development for shared community facilities. Deanestor has extensive, specialist experience in the delivery of furniture and fitout services for both education and healthcare projects, which will add value to this latest contract.” Deanestor’s project for a second community hub and learning centre for North Lanarkshire Council is now underway. Here, Deanestor is working with hub South West Scotland’s construction partner, BAM Construct UK, to provide around 4,400 items of bespoke school furniture and equipment for a £20m shared learning campus in Wishaw. This will accommodate 500 pupils from Newmains and St Brigid’s Primary Schools, and a 100-place early years centre. Deanestor will fit out more than 100 rooms in seven zones. Designed by BDP and scheduled to open around the end of 2022, this development will create a stimulating learning centre for denominational and non-denominational primary and early years education. Deanestor provides high quality furniture and fitout solutions to construction clients and contractors for healthcare, education, student accommodation, build-to-rent and laboratory projects – both new build and refurbishment. It offers bespoke design services to meet specific project requirements and is responsible for installation to provide a seamless approach for its customers and a single point of contact.

Leicester City Council to boost Waterside development with £4.9m funding

Steve Fisher
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Leicester City Council to boost Waterside development with £4.9m funding
Leicester City Council intends to provide £4.9million of funding to emh Group towards the construction of 55 new affordable rent homes in the Waterside area. Emh Group – one of the largest providers of affordable homes in the East Midlands – has confirmed that the council will be able to nominate people from its housing waiting list for the new homes. The new homes – which will be a mix of one and two-bedroom flats – will be part of the council’s response to the need for affordable housing supported living schemes that support adults who are in receipt of social care. The 55 flats would be part of a larger proposed 75-unit supported housing scheme that emh Group plans to develop. The council’s proposed contribution will be from receipts from the sale of council properties under the Government’s Right to Buy scheme. Cllr Elly Cutkelvin, assistant city mayor four housing said: “By providing Right to Buy funding to emh Group in this way, we can help ensure that dozens of new homes – including much-needed wheelchair accessible properties – are available at affordable rent to some of the most vulnerable people in the city. “There is no doubt that the Right to Buy scheme has hit the supply of council housing hard. We’re losing homes much faster that they are being built and it’s time the Right to Buy scheme was abandoned. In the meantime, it is essential that we invest whatever proceeds back into addressing our local and critical need for more affordable homes.” Whenever a council property is sold under Right to Buy, the proceeds of the sale must be used in line with strict Government guidelines. This means that only some of the proceeds can be used to support the costs of building new affordable homes for rent. It also means that this money can only be used to cover up to 40 per cent of construction costs. Emh Group’s proposed scheme will be part of the delivery of over 360 new homes currently under construction by Keepmoat, the city council’s development partner for the first phase of the Waterside regeneration project. Chris Jones, Executive Director – Development at emh said “We are proud to partner with Leicester City Council and look forward to making a key contribution towards the regeneration of Waterside. “We are committed to building high quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local people as well as provide a boost to local the area.” A formal decision on the proposed use of £4.9million of Right to Buy receipts to help address the need for more affordable housing is due to be taken on Thursday 6 October 2022.

Nottingham achieves a 57% reduction in carbon emissions

Steve Fisher
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Nottingham achieves a 57% reduction in carbon emissions
Nottingham has reduced its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 57.7% per person in the last 15 years the latest review of the city’s Carbon Neutral Action Plan shows. This is the highest reduction for any core city in the country. The City Council and partner organisations across Nottingham have been delivering the plan for two years in order to tackle climate change. Positive results are being achieved and this is reflected in the city’s overall CO2 emissions levels. The Carbon Neutral Action Plan covers a range of themes that impact CO2 emissions in Nottingham that aim to:
  • Reduce CO2 emissions across six key areas: transport, energy generation, the built environment (buildings), water, waste and consumption (what we buy and use)
  • Remove CO2 from the atmosphere
  • Protect and enhance nature
  • Protect the city from extreme weather events
Nottingham is aiming to be the first city in the UK to become carbon neutral by 2028, which is the most ambitious climate and environmental target in the country. The climate crisis remains one of the most complex challenges that our society faces, but over the past year the City Council has delivered some impressive achievements:
  • Nottingham is considered one of the top 100 cities in the world for climate action
  • Progress has been made to decarbonise vehicles in the city, with over 50% of the council’s fleet running on electric battery power while 30% of the city’s buses are either electric or run on biogas
  • Work has begun on an innovative wireless taxi pilot project, which is a first for the UK
  • To date, over 13,000 energy efficiency improvements have been made to social and privately owned homes through the Greener HousiNG schemes
  • 9,000 new trees were planted in 2021-22 which , lower the temperature of the city, and make Nottingham greener
  • Properties across Nottingham have been made more resilient to the impacts of climate changethrough flood management schemes
  • Thousands of kilos of food waste avoided through redistribution project with FareShare Midlands.
Councillor Sally Longford, Portfolio Holder for Energy, Environment and Waste Services, said: “I’m pleased that we are continuing to reduce CO2 emissions in Nottingham. To have the highest per person reduction in emissions of any core city in the UK is impressive and shows the hard work that we’ve been doing across the council and the city. “However, we need to do even more. This year we’ve seen even more extreme weather events at home and around the world, so we can’t be complacent with the progress we’ve made to date. Together, the City Council, partner organisations, and the residents of Nottingham can come together to do our bit to tackle the climate crisis. “I would like to encourage residents to get involved where they can – our Notts Green Rewards app has loads of suggestions to reduce your carbon footprint. Organisations in Nottingham can sign up to our ‘We Support CN28’ campaign to join more than 40 businesses who have committed to reducing their carbon emissions.” Wayne Bexton, Director of Carbon Reduction, Energy and Sustainability, said: “To achieve a 57.7% reduction in carbon emissions since 2005 and be the leading core city on this agenda is testament to the work happening across the city with partners. We have challenges ahead in order to become carbon neutral, but we should celebrate the progress to date and harness the momentum to keep Nottingham at the forefront of tackling climate change.”

AW Repair Group sold to Steer Automotive Group in multi-million-pound deal

Tess Egginton
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AW Repair Group sold to Steer Automotive Group in multi-million-pound deal
Azets, the regional accountancy and business advisor to SMEs, has advised on a multi-million-pound sale of specialist accident repair centres, AW Repair Group, to Chiltern Capital-backed Steer Automotive Group. Founded in 1996 by Andrew Walsh, AW Repair Group Limited operates a group of specialist accident repair centres. From its 12 operational sites spread across South Yorkshire and the East Midlands, the business delivers a mix of vehicle accident repair services to its established and growing base of customers in the insurance and manufacturer sector. With over 30 years of experience within the body shop industry, Steer Automotive Group is now the new owner of AW Repair Group. Exiting founder and CEO of AW Repair Group, Andrew Walsh, said: “I started the business at the age of 24 and to negotiate its sale was, at times, emotive, frustrating and also exciting. “Thanks to the guidance from the Azets’ team, namely Martin Poole, Tom Eastwood and Doug Allan, who were always calm, diligent and consistent in their approach and any alternative proposals were always explored. They had a really good understanding of all the intricacies, and worked in partnership with our legal advisors. “We wish the team at Steer Automotive Group all the best and look forward to following their journey.” Martin Poole, partner at Azets, added: “It was a pleasure working with Andrew and Emma, long-standing clients of the firm. Through their hard work, they have grown a business from scratch into one that is at the forefront of the industry. Their commitment and determination through the transaction process has been second to none and they thoroughly deserve the value that they have achieved for all of their efforts. “I have no doubt that the legacy and dedication shown by AW Repair Group’s founder and CEO Andrew and finance and legal director Emma will enable the business to flourish under new ownership.” Azets provided corporate finance, audit and tax advisory services to the shareholders of AW Repair Group Limited.

Melton Building Society appoints local business to carry out Mutual House office revamp

Tess Egginton
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Melton Building Society appoints local business to carry out Mutual House office revamp
Melton Building Society have partnered with fellow Leicester business, Blueprint Interiors, to carry out the refurbishment of their Mutual House offices. Work is set to start in early October to modernise the interior of the well-known building, a landmark passed regularly by commuters travelling along Leicester Road. There will be no disruption to service during the renovations which are intended to improve the functionality of the workspace for Melton Building Society colleagues, and also provide new meeting and event space that will be opened up for use by local charities and community groups. Simon Taylor, CEO of Melton Building Society, commented on the refurbishment plans: “We are thrilled to be able to support a fantastic local business such as Blueprint Interiors by appointing them to carry out the transformation of our offices. “As a mutual, our founding purpose is to ‘build thriving communities’ and so the aim of the revamp is to better accommodate our colleagues, most of whom live locally, with a more efficient work environment and to bring value to our members by investing in our shared future.” Simon continues: “We are very excited to be able to enhance our services by opening up the improved space and inviting our members in on a regular basis – hosting workshops and events and supporting community projects.” As a significant local employer, Melton Building Society has hired 35 new roles this year, taking their total to over 135 colleagues. The planned building works will further support the community by bringing in local firms to provide expertise. Chloe Sproston, creative and commercial director at Blueprint Interiors, comments on the partnership: “It’s been a huge privilege to work alongside The Melton team during our workplace consultancy and design stages. We’ve taken time to understand how its people and processes need to be supported, so that they can deliver on the society’s objective to become a ‘modern mutual’. “The result is a bespoke selection of spaces. From tech driven workspaces to community focused cafes – all perfected to suit the needs and activities of colleagues, members and the wider community. Delivering these transformational spaces is about to begin, and we can’t wait to see it come to life.” The work is set to be completed in the spring of 2023, with plans for a reopening.
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