Full steam ahead at Forbes Park, Long Eaton
Progress is being made at Clowes Developments’ brand new industrial hub, Forbes Park, located off Fields Farm Road in Long Eaton.
Forbes Park construction works began in Spring 2021. Despite nationwide challenges within the construction industry, main contractor Roe Developments and the wider team including IMA Architects, Millward Consulting Engineers and Postins Project Services have delivered the first phase of the development.
Occupiers of Block F including Toolstation and City Plumbing are open and trading. The final occupier, yet to be named, are completing their fitout and are aiming to begin trading by the summer.
Block D comprising of four individual units totalling circa 13,700 sq ft has been sold in its entirety to a private investor. Occupiers are expected to move into their new premises later this year.
The construction of Unit A, comprising a standalone 19,500 sq ft unit with a secure goods yard and private car park, completed in April 2022, this unit will soon be occupied by its new owners.
Construction continues in other areas of the site. Unit C is expected to be ready for occupation by the end of the year with a private investor already lined up to take occupation of the building upon completion.
Block E comprises four terrace retail / fast food units with a prominent roadside presence and convenient parking. The target completion date for the units is 19 May 2022 with a national bakery chain due to take occupation of Unit E1 once complete.
Richard Sutton from NG Chartered Surveyors said: “This is a landmark moment for Long Eaton’s newest development and for Clowes who have created something very special. It’s been fantastic working for them alongside the team at FHP to achieve a fantastic result with nearly all the units sold or pre-let ahead of the practical completion date.”
Chris Proctor of FHP is also anticipating the completion of further units, saying: “Clowes Developments have created a fantastic new trading estate for Long Eaton, which is supported by the fact all units have either been pre-let or pre-sold.
“It has been a pleasure working on the scheme alongside Clowes, NG Chartered Surveyors, IM Architects, Geldards and Roe Developments on this highly successful scheme of new trading units. I look forward to the completion of further units on the estate, with a number of these already under offer.”
New appointment for Midlands-based engineering consultancy
Nottingham-based engineering consultancy, Howard Ward Associates (HWA), has appointed Arron Ross as structural engineer to join its expanding firm.
Founded in 1977, civil and structural engineering consultancy HWA works across all sectors and specialities including residential, emergency services and solar PV, providing civil and structural design services to projects with construction values ranging up to £30 million.
With nearly six years’ experience within the construction industry, Arron has joined HWA to assist with the technical delivery of a growing workload.
He is a graduate of the University of Brighton with a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree and has expertise in steelwork design, testing and structural product development.
Arron is keen to progress in his new role by developing his skills and knowledge in both design and project management and with support working towards attaining chartership status.
On his new role, Arron said: “Joining the HWA team felt like the ideal career move for me as the company culture aligns with my values and the team works on a vast array of projects across multiple sectors. I’m very keen to bring a great work ethic and eagerness to my role as I expand my knowledge and experience and take on new challenges.
“It is evident to me that HWA treat its staff as its greatest asset. Everyone works together as a close-knit team and I’m looking forward to progressing with the company.”
Giles Ward, Managing Director of HWA, said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Arron to our team. With the uncertainty that the job market has seen over the last two years, sourcing the right person for the job has been of paramount importance to us.
“Arron makes fantastic addition to our growing consultancy. His technical and personal skills, experience and enthusiasm were exactly what we were looking for and we wish him every success in his new role here.”
With a number of exciting local and national projects in the pipeline this year, HWA have recently assisted in the completion of the new Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service Joint Headquarters and the new £13.2m Alfreton Park School.
New Head of Property at Actons
Actons Solicitors, based in the heart of Nottingham city centre, has promoted one of its Directors to Head of Property. Caroline Pearson becomes Head of Property at Actons, following a ten year stint by Amanda Gordon, who continues as a Director in the Property team. The change is part of the firms’ succession planning ahead of the retirement of Amanda Gordon at the end of September.
Caroline qualified as a Solicitor in 2001 and joined Actons in 2007 and advises organisations on a range of commercial property transactions, from high-street premises to major development projects.
Caroline Pearson said: “I’m really pleased to be taking on the role as Head of Property, and look forward to working with the other members of the team, continuing to develop strong relationships with our clients and helping them to achieve their goals. There is some great talent in the team which has continued to grow throughout the pandemic with the arrival of Sumandeep Nahl and Neelam Khaleel.”
“Amanda will continue to play an instrumental part in the Property team ahead of her retirement and is definitely a hard act to follow. I’m very excited about the future.”
Amanda Gordon added: “It’s important for businesses to remain fresh and dynamic – and Caroline’s promotion is the natural next step for the team ahead of my retirement after the summer.”
“I know Caroline will do a great job of taking the team forward and helping our clients with their property transactions. My focus over the next six months is to ensure a smooth handover to Caroline and the other members of the team.”
Actons boasts a seven-strong property team, plus support staff, covering commercial property and development work for organisations and individuals across the region, as well as high-end residential conveyancing.
New Deputy Area Director for HSBC
HSBC have appointed Richard Parker as new Deputy Area Director, to lead a team that manage SME clients across the six counties of: Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire.
Working as part of a leadership team that relationship manage some 2,500 SME clients, Richard brings a wealth of experience, including Corporate Relationship Management and Business Development experience as well as Corporate Banking Leader with international experience.
In his previous role as relationship Director for HSBC, Richard Managed a portfolio of UK and international corporate clients and proactive in business development across a diverse range of industries and sectors where the business turnover is up to £350m.
Richard has worked in partnership with clients to understand the challenges and issues which impact on their business and provide appropriate solutions to address these needs.
He is experienced in providing Trade Finance, Term Debt, Working Capital, Cash Flow and Asset Based Lending facilities and has supported a number of clients through milestone events such as MBO’s, Private Equity fund raising and Acquisitions.
He joined HSBC in 2017 after leaving Barclays Corporate banking, where he managed a portfolio of corporate clients, across a range of industries, with turnovers in excess of £10m.
£3.8 million Loughborough town centre regeneration scheme enters final phase
The Bedford Square Gateway Project in Loughborough town centre has entered its final phase.
The project will regenerate Ward’s End, Devonshire Square and Bedford Square to make it more attractive to visitors.
Today (Friday), Ward’s End and Devonshire Square will reopen to traffic. Most of the work there is now finished.
The area has been improved with high-quality paving, wider pavements, new street furniture and a new wide-open space in Devonshire Square to host events and activities.
Cllr Jenny Bokor, the Council’s lead member for Loughborough, said: “The Council has invested significantly into this scheme for the benefit of local businesses and residents.
Ward’s End and Devonshire Square look much more inviting to shoppers and visitors and we have retained most of the parking in the area.
We know it has caused disruption and we would like to thank everyone for their patience.”
Ward’s End and Devonshire Square are now complete except for a few minor works.
The roads will reopen at 4.30pm today. There are some minor works to carry out in coming weeks, including the replacement of temporary paving. However, the latest phase of the scheme is essentially complete.
The £3.8 million regeneration scheme has been funded by Charnwood Borough Council, Loughborough Town Deal and the LLEP.
Cllr Jonathan Morgan, Leader of Charnwood Borough Council and LLEP Board member, said: “This milestone means most of the regeneration scheme is completed and you can already see the difference it has made.
The area is a much nicer place to visit and spend time in.
Andy Reed OBE, interim Chair of the LLEP Board, said: “We know that town centres were impacted significantly by the pandemic, both in terms of reduced footfall and in the shift to online shopping.
By investing for the long-term in the revitalisation of our public places, while also improving access for pedestrians, we can support local businesses while meeting the sustainability goals of our wider Economic Growth Strategy.”
Work started on The Bedford Square Gateway project in early 2021. The final phase of the scheme is now underway.
“Positive start to the year” for Travis Perkins
Travis Perkins has seen a “positive start” to 2022 with total sales for the three months to 31 March 2022 13.6% ahead of last year.
In the Merchanting segment, total sales were up by 17.9% with all businesses performing in line with expectations.
The business said pricing accounted for approximately two-thirds of the growth with manufacturer increases continuing to be passed through in an orderly manner.
Travis Perkins added that customer demand remains robust across its end markets with larger customer activity underpinned by the backlog of social and economic infrastructure work and ongoing requirement for new housing.
Toolstation total sales however were down 6% in the first quarter, with like-for-like sales down 11.9%, reflecting “a tough prior year comparator and the return of Toolstation’s customer mix back to its core trade base who continue to appreciate the value and convenience of the customer proposition.”
Nick Roberts, Chief Executive, said: “The Group has had an encouraging first quarter and, although the wider economic backdrop remains uncertain, we are well placed to build on this positive start in the coming months.
“The energy efficiency of the UK’s built environment remains a key focal point for households and politicians alike and the current cost of energy is likely to prompt further demand for improvement in both new and existing buildings. Allied to the significant pipeline of investment in the UK’s social and economic infrastructure, we remain confident in the structural drivers of demand in our end markets.
“As the UK’s largest building materials supplier and a leading partner to the construction industry, we are uniquely placed to support the country in this drive and are working closely with all key stakeholders, including government, housebuilders, tradespeople and developers, to address these challenges.”
New study reveals nearly 1 in 5 employers are likely to make redundancies over the next year
A new survey from Acas has found that nearly 1 in 5 of employers (18%) are likely to make staff redundancies over the next year.
Acas commissioned YouGov to ask British businesses about their redundancy plans in the next 12 months.
The poll found that large businesses were more likely to make redundancies than small and medium sized (SME) businesses. 3 out of 10 large businesses (30%) are likely to make redundancies and 10% of SMEs said that were likely to do so.
Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said: “The impact of global events has seen some businesses facing difficult circumstances and our poll reveals that nearly 1 in 5 are considering redundancies in the year ahead.
“Redundancies at large organisations have been in the news recently and it appears that 3 in 10 organisations that employ more than 250 employees are likely to make redundancies in the next 12 months.
“Acas advice for bosses is to exhaust all possible alternatives to redundancies first but if employers feel like they have no choice then they must follow the law in this area or they could be subject to a costly legal process.”
If an employer finds there are no other choices than to make redundancies then there are strict rules on consulting staff that they must follow.
An employer must discuss any planned changes and consult with each employee who could be affected. This includes staff who may not be losing their jobs but will be impacted.
The minimum consultation period varies depending on the number of employees that an employer wishes to make redundant. By law, employers who wish to make 20 or more staff redundant over any 3 month (90 day) period must also consult a recognised trade union or elected employee representatives about the proposed changes.
For 20 to 99 redundancies, consultation must start at least 30 days before the first dismissal can take effect, and for 100 or more redundancies, it has to start at least 45 days before. For less than 20 redundancies, there is no set time period but the length of consultation must be reasonable.
If an employer does not meet consultation requirements, employees can take their employer to an employment tribunal. If successful, the employer may have to pay up to 90 days’ full pay for each affected employee. Someone can also make a claim of unfair dismissal to an employment tribunal on the grounds that they were not consulted, or the consultation was not meaningful.
Employers should consider all possible options before considering redundancies as other solutions to their situation could be found through consultation with their staff, employee representatives and unions.
Acas advisers have seen many examples of this joint working that’s produced creative alternatives to job losses, such as part-time working, cuts to overtime, finding alternative roles and retraining. Growing number of businesses at risk of collapse, as costs spiral and Covid loan repayments come due, says new report
The latest Begbies Traynor “Red Flag Alert” research, which has examined the financial health of British companies for the past 15 years, highlights the strain two years of extraordinary financial pressures have had on thousands of UK companies.
Helped through the pandemic and its aftershocks by state support, the report now reveals a 19% jump in the number of companies in critical financial distress with these measures cut off and costs spiralling.
The most recent County Court Judgements (CCJs) data revealed 11,673 rulings in March – up 179% on the monthly average for the previous two years – and the highest level in a single month for five years.
With companies struggling with rising inflation, coupled with the demands of repaying Government Covid support loans, there is now a growing risk of a wave of insolvencies affecting vulnerable British businesses.
Julie Palmer, partner at Begbies Traynor, warned that unless there is action to allow struggling businesses to mitigate the impact of these pressures, they risk being unable to continue to operate.
“The critical distress and CCJ data are likely predictors of a wave of insolvencies coming – it’s just a case of when the dam holding it back finally bursts.
The latest Government insolvency figures for March reinforce this worrying trend with creditors voluntary liquidations – the most common type of corporate insolvency – more than doubling compared to March 2021 and up 62% compared to March 2019
“The Government’s finances are themselves taking a hit from the increasing interest environment; they are simply not able to introduce further significant funding into the system, and they now have a choice to make. Do they rush to recover funds handed out during the pandemic to ensure there was a functioning economy afterwards? Or look for ways to control the number of businesses that fail?
“Having put so much money into protecting businesses over the past two years, ministers won’t want to see it wasted as companies collapse, unable to repay their debts.”
Ms Palmer said one way the Government could ease the pressure on embattled businesses while not writing off debts racked up through measures such as the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) would be taking a longer-term view.
She continued: “I’d expect low-cost forms of further support, probably through leniency in repaying pandemic funding.
“We could see an approach similar to war bonds, with terms being extended as ministers follow the adage that a rolling loan gathers no loss.
“Taking a hard line on repaying CBILS and other loans would likely drive businesses over the edge, risking the billions fed into the economy being wasted, and the legacy of this support probably explains the year-on-year fall in significant financial distress.”
Ric Traynor, executive chairman of Begbies Traynor, commented; “Inflation has become a global issue, not just a domestic problem. The effects of increasing costs are now starting to take their toll on businesses and consumers alike. For the first time in more than a decade, inflation is the prime concern for businesses.
“This could mean that companies which have just been surviving, being kept alive only by government support, finally succumb to the inevitable.
“Additionally, consumer demand is likely to slow markedly as cost pressures pile up ahead of the anticipated increase in energy costs in October, and families reduce their appetite for spending accordingly. If these pressures take their toll on both corporate and personal finances, it could be particularly difficult in the latter quarters of this year.”
Notts based illegal waste operator and landowner prosecuted
A Nottinghamshire man has been handed down a 20-week suspended prison sentence for burning waste illegally in Newark, Nottinghamshire. The owner of the land on which the waste was burned has also been prosecuted and each has been ordered to pay costs of over £18,000.
The case against 61 year old Samual Hussan, of Beaver Cotes Close, Newark and 75 year old Frederick Hardy, of Corner Farm, Farndon, Newark, was held at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 27 April 2022.
Hussan had admitted the offence at a previous hearing. He received a 20-week prison sentence suspended for 2 years, a 12-week curfew from 8pm-6am, was ordered to pay costs of £18,236.20 and a victim surcharge of £115. In addition, he was disqualified from being a director for 5 years.
At a previous hearing, the landowner, Frederick Hardy, admitted he had knowingly permitted the operation without the necessary environmental permit. He was fined £2,666 and ordered to pay costs of £18,236.79 and a victim surcharge of £170.
The court was told that Hussan had made a significant financial gain from operating the site. Operations at the site commenced in February 2018.
Hussan told officers from the Environment Agency that he had been paid £50 per tonne for the waste and that there were 300 tonnes of bales on the site.
However, officers discovered that waste on the site included road plainings, wood, plus construction and demolition waste. There were also at least 1,000 bales of waste which contained carpets, duvets and mattresses.
The court was told that it was estimated that Hardy had subsequently cleared the site at a cost in excess of £64,000 and removed the waste to landfill.
Newark and Sherwood District Council first received a complaint about the burning of materials on the site in March 2018.
Hussan originally denied burning waste on the site and that the majority of his activities had involved the grading of wood. He believed that exemptions from an existing environmental permit covered his activities.
Hardy admitted he had allowed Hussan to use the site and that he was aware of waste being burned. He had organised access to the site from neighbouring land and for the construction of a weighbridge.
The court was told that Environment Agency officers in May 2018 had de-registered 14 exemptions for the site on the basis that they posed a significant environmental risk.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “We hope this case will send a clear message that we do not hesitate to take action to protect the environment and bring perpetrators to justice.
These people operated the site without the required permit which, as well as undermining the regulatory regime, also had an impact on lawful waste operators.
We are actively targeting illegal waste activities across the country and would urge all those seeking to become involved in the waste industry to ensure they have the appropriate permits and authorisations in place before commencing their operations.
Businesses and householders should carry out checks to ensure that they are using legitimate companies to deal with their waste. To check if a waste carrier is genuine visit: https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/index.” Anyone who suspects a company is operating illegally can call the Environment Agency 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.Demolition of former Cummins factory in Lincolnshire paves the way for mixed-use area
A major milestone in the development of St Martin’s Park, Stamford, has been met as demolition and clearance of the former Cummins factory commences.
South Kesteven District Council and Burghley have appointed Contractor GF Tomlinson Group to undertake the work and they began site set up last week, with welfare units placed on site. Demolition works will begin shortly and will continue for the remainder of the year.
The 14.7-hectare St Martin’s Park will include a designated commercial area; mixed-use area; retirement village; range of residential properties, including affordable homes; and areas of green and open space.
Kelham Cooke, Leader of South Kesteven District Council, said: “This high-quality, well-designed and sustainable development will preserve and enhance the setting of this part of Stamford.
“The important mixed-use development will bring significant benefits to the town and wider area, providing new employment opportunities and homes for the town and district.
“We are really pleased to have reached the next phase of this collaboration which supports our vision for the area and are proud to be creating a legacy for future generations, while protecting our strong heritage.”
As joint landowners, both South Kesteven District Council and Burghley Estates are committed to long-term investment and growth in Stamford while creating a balanced community that meets local housing needs.
Miranda Rock, Burghley House Director, said: “We are delighted to be taking important steps towards creating a development which will bring huge benefits to Stamford and the wider economy.
“We will ensure the St Martin’s Park development delivers sensitive and sustainable mixed-use amenities that work for the whole community.”
Planning permission for the site was granted in October 2021 with the decision notice being issued last month.
Business Lincolnshire announces return of Lincolnshire Manufacturing Conference
Business Lincolnshire are proud to announce the Greater Lincolnshire Manufacturing Conference 2022: De-risking for a Sustainable Future.
The fully funded conference, which is being organised in partnership with NatWest, exclusively serves the manufacturing sector within Greater Lincolnshire. The conference takes place at Kenwick Park Hotel, Louth, on Friday 20th May 2022. The annual event celebrates its fifth conference, in a welcome return following a three-year hiatus caused by the pandemic.
Greater Lincolnshire Engineering and Manufacturing (GLEAM) network are sponsoring the networking breakfast, which coincides with registration and an industry exhibition. This year’s theme focuses on ‘de-risking for a sustainable future’.
A programme of presentations and discussions will explore sustainable business opportunities, the practicalities of carbon capture and storage, insights into how to take the first steps towards net-zero, and more. Peer-to-peer problem-solving and knowledge-sharing workshops will take place throughout the day, providing time to discuss and unpick topics covered by the speakers.
The day’s events will close with the opportunity for delegates to attend site tours of local manufacturers Bottomley Distillers, Micronclean, and Wolds Manufacturing Services.
Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “This conference plays a vital role in supporting the county’s manufacturing community. It provides opportunities to network, share ideas and seek out solutions to common challenges, and of course to hear about new developments from industry leaders. This is always an event to look forward to as we help this important sector thrive.”
To attend the event, delegates must represent manufacturing-based businesses, partnerships, sole traders, and registered charities, with a trading address located within Greater Lincolnshire. Due to anticipated high demand places are limited to one person per organisation. To find out more and book your ticket visit: https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/events/event-details/?id=3934&navigatedFromSearch=true
Independent retailers continue to provide new jobs and fuel economic growth, says report
The Shopify Economic Impact Report conducted by Deloitte has revealed how British independent retailers are continuing to fuel job creation and local economic growth, with exports helping UK merchants thrive despite macroeconomic headwinds.
Record numbers of UK independent retailers broke international borders in 2021, with exports from UK Shopify merchants reached £2.7 billion in 2021, up 43% increase from the £1.9 billion made through exports in 2020, as retailers turned their attentions to international growth.
Dave Linton, founder of Madlug, which donates a bag to a child in care for every bag sold to a customer, is continuing to expand overseas and credits the ability for small independent brands to forge a close connection to their customers. He said: “Once customers are connected to a brand’s mission and purpose, they are willing to continue spending with that brand, even in the face of inflation, rising living costs and international shipping charges. In the past year, we’ve seen strong sales to Europe, Canada and America and some sales also to Australia and Dubai. We have also been able to hire two more young people who have been through the care system themselves and add great value to our business as a result.”
Shimona Mehta, EMEA Managing Director at Shopify, said: “Innovative British businesses are creating jobs at a rapid clip despite the odds and continue to flex their entrepreneurial muscle: something that will be increasingly important as we navigate the cost of living crisis ahead. Not only does it underline the UK’s potential as a powerhouse for entrepreneurship, but the role that commerce is playing in driving economic growth and job creation.”
FSB welcomes plan to delay full EU import checks
Responding to the Government’s decision to delay the imposition of full EU import checks, which were set to take effect this summer, Federation of Small Businesses National Chair Martin McTague said: “Imposition of full import controls this summer would have meant yet another burden for small firms which are already wrestling with new trade rules and spiralling operating costs.
“This move will give them more time to prepare for future changes and reassess supply chains.
“Over the long term, the Government should do its utmost to minimise trade friction with regions all over the globe – increasing the threshold at which import tariffs kick in, and putting small business chapters at the heart of all new free trade agreements.”
Packaging business expands in Mansfield
AM Packaging (Mansfield) Limited has expanded with the letting of Unit 5 Anglia Way, Mansfield.
FHP Property Consultants secured the deal on behalf of Ash Bow Estates Limited.
The business was looking for larger warehouse premises in the local area.
Chris Proctor of FHP Property Consultants said: “It has been a pleasure dealing with AM Packaging with this deal requiring a real team effort in respect of the vacating occupier moving out and AM Packaging moving into the unit, which was all done within 24 hours of one another! I wish AM Packaging all the best with their new unit.”
Lee Childerley of AM Packaging said: “I’d like to take the opportunity to personally say a massive thank you to Chris Procter from FHP Property Consultants, for helping our team find our perfect premises to help continue our growth as a company.”
Firm fined £44,000 after poultry shed malfunction kills 27,000 chickens
A company that manages poultry farms has been fined £44,000 after a computer malfunction in a broiler shed ventilation system caused the death of more than 27,000 chickens.
Leicestershire County Council’s Trading Standards Service prosecuted Hudson & Sanders Limited after the birds died at a farm near Melton Mowbray.
The firm pleaded guilty to four charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 in a hearing at Leicester Magistrates Court on Wednesday (27).
Some 50,000 chickens were being kept in a large shed at Hose Lodge Farm in Colston Bassett when, on May 26, 2020, the systems that regulated air flow, vital for the welfare of the chickens, failed.
The court heard that inlets on the side of the building closed during a rest period for the birds in the afternoon, but another tunnel ventilation system failed to open creating a sealed unit.
On what was a warm day, the temperature within the shed rose rapidly.
The birds could not cool down because of the ventilation failure, causing them heat stress, suffering and death.
An alarm sounded when the temperature rose to 37 degrees and staff were alerted but council investigators said that should have been set to go off at 27 degrees.
At the time of the incident, the farm manager was on leave but still attended as he lived on the site.
A relief manager provided by Hudson & Sanders Limited, had left the site to take a break when the incident occurred.
By the time staff were able to get into the shed 27,249 of the chickens had died.
The council prosecuted the company for being negligent in its care of the birds, which were being farmed for their meat.
Trading standards also said the company had failed to ensure there were enough staff to look after the chickens and that they were not trained to the level they needed to be, which led to a situation where they didn’t know what to do in time.
The county council argued the offence was aggravated because an Animal and Plant Health Agency vet had visited the farm in November 2019 and raised concerns about there not being sufficient staff or a ventilation plan.
District Judge Nick Watson described the May 26 incident as a disaster and said those birds that survived would also have suffered.
He fined the company £44,000 and ordered it to pay the county council’s costs of £12,634.83.
In mitigation, solicitors for the defendant said the company, which managed poultry operation on behalf of the farm’s owner, regretted the incident.
The court heard Hudson & Sanders Limited had no previous conviction for animal welfare offences and had an otherwise excellent reputation in the industry.
After the hearing, the county council’s head of regulatory services, Gary Connors, said: “This was an awful but thankfully rare incident in terms of the scale of unnecessary suffering. However, we hope the level of fine prompts businesses operating in this sector to review their operations to ensure they have adequate staffing and procedures in place to avoid such a distressing incident happening again.”
City firms urged to take advantage of free 30-day electric van trial
Businesses are being invited to test-drive a new electric van before taking a fully-funded one-month trial.
An event is being held next month in Nottingham where a range of vehicles will be on show for firms of any size, from the public or private sector, to consider for their fleet.
Organised by the City Council as part of the Electric Van Experience (EVE) project, this will take place outside the Arc Building on the NG2 Business Park, Enterprise Way, between 11am and 3pm on Thursday 5 May.
Staff from the Transport team will be on hand to explain the benefits of an electric van, answer any questions and take interested businesses out for a 15-minute drive to help them decide if they’d like to sign up for a 30-day vehicle loan.
Use of the van is free with a nominal administration fee dependant on the size of the company. Voluntary sector and charitable organisations are exempt from this.
Funded by National Highways and delivered as part of the authority’s Workplace Travel Service, EVE was launched a year ago and enables companies to see how making the switch to electric vans could be the right move financially and environmentally.
Councillor Sally Longford, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Energy and the Environment at Nottingham City Council, said: “With the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles brought forward to 2030, we want to support businesses to plan ahead. Electric vehicles are the future but we understand that making the switch is still a big decision.
“Since launching in 2021, the scheme has proved popular and we’ve loaned vehicles to more than 70 businesses. We now want to ensure that more companies have the opportunity to try it out and see if this is for them.
“The idea is for firms to experience the benefits of an electric van for themselves before making any commitment. This isn’t available through dealerships or manufacturers, so it’s a unique opportunity and key to addressing the barriers that businesses face with electrifying fleets.
“Not only will they be able to experience first-hand the cost savings in maintenance and operation, but also the improved driving experience, giving them confidence to go ahead and make their fleets cleaner.
“As a council we’ve long been committed to improving air quality in the city, and this scheme will further help to reduce harmful emissions from the city’s and region’s roads.”
Providing the premises are suitable, businesses who take up the offer will be able to have a charge point fitted at no cost and will be invited to take advantage of the services offered by Nottingham Electric Vehicle Services (NEVS).
Andy Jinks, Midlands regional director for National Highways and funders of the Electric Van Experience, said: “We’re working with councils across the country to encourage businesses to make the switch to electric vehicles and we expect many more to start using electric vehicles when they experience the savings possible.
“We’ve invested £2.69 million in this initiative with Nottingham City Council – a key example of how we are using our air quality fund to benefit the environment and communities around our roads, as well as the people travelling and working on them.”
Businesses interested in the 5 May event should contact the Transport team at transport@nottinghamcity.gov.uk so an accompanied test drive can be scheduled in advance.
Blythin & Brown joins sponsor line up for East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022
Blythin & Brown Insurance Brokers has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022, supporting the Deal of the Year award.
The awards, which will take place on Thursday 15 September at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrate the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.
Nominations are now OPEN for East Midlands Business Link’s annual Bricks Awards.
To submit a business or development, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Speaking with Business Link, Richard Picton, Managing Director at Blythin & Brown, said: “It was an easy decision to sponsor Deal of the Year at this year’s Bricks Awards. Not only is this an opportunity to highlight the Blythin and Brown name but it’s also a great platform where we can showcase the insurance solutions we offer to the Construction and Property sector to a room full of high profile senior decision makers.”
The awards, which will take place on Thursday 15 September at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrate the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.
Nominations are now OPEN for East Midlands Business Link’s annual Bricks Awards.
To submit a business or development, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
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
- Overall winner
Find out who last year’s winners were here.
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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. Dress code is standard business attire.
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New Executive set to lead Nottingham City Council in 2022
Nottingham City Council will elect its new Executive team of councillors on Monday 9 May at the Annual General Meeting of City Council.
From then, the following councillors will take up their responsibility:
- Councillor David Mellen (Leader)
- Councillor Adele Williams (Deputy Leader)
- Councillor Sally Longford
- Councillor Rebecca Langton
- Councillor Linda Woodings
- Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis
- Councillor Toby Neal
- Councillor Audra Wynter
- Councillor Neghat Khan
- Councillor Cheryl Barnard
New £25m taskforce to crack down on those who took advantage of vital Covid support schemes
The Chancellor has announced that a new fraud squad, recruited from data analytics experts and leading economic crime investigators, will crack down on criminal gangs who rip off the taxpayer.
Operational in July and based in the Cabinet Office, the new £25 million “Public Sector Fraud Authority” will double funding for the Government’s central counter fraud capacity.
Rishi Sunak will unveil the new Public Sector Fraud Authority, which will be up and running by July, doubling the Government’s central counter fraud capacity.
The new body will be made up of leading data analytics experts and economic crime investigators to recover money stolen from Covid support schemes and spot suspicious companies and people seeking Government contracts. Counter fraud experts will also mount mandatory inspections on Whitehall programmes to uncover vulnerabilities.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak said: “We will chase down fraudsters who rip off the taxpayer. This elite fraud squad, backed by £25 million, will ensure the latest counter fraud techniques are being used to track down these criminals.
People are rightly furious that fraudsters took advantage of our vital Covid support schemes, and we are acting to make sure they pay the price”.
Minister for Brexit Opportunities and Government Efficiency, Jacob Rees-Mogg said: “Hardworking taxpayers must and will be protected. Anyone who tries to defraud the public purse will know that we as a government are coming for them and we are going to put them behind bars”.
Recruitment for the Chief Executive of the Public Sector Fraud Authority will start in the coming weeks, with candidates picked from leading counter fraud experts. The new CEO will answer directly to the Chancellor and the Minister for Brexit Opportunities and Government Efficiency. Mr Sunak will unveil details of the new counter fraud squad when he chairs the first meeting of the government’s new Efficiencies and Value for Money Committee later today, set up at the request of the Prime Minister. At the committee the Chancellor will also launch the Government’s Plan for Protecting the Taxpayer to cut waste by slashing the Government’s property bill, doubling the NHS efficiencies target, reducing non-front line civil service head count, as well as “quango” budgets and cracking down on fraud and error. The committee is chaired by the Chancellor and deputy co-chaired by Simon Clarke, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Jacob Rees-Mogg, Minister for Brexit Opportunities and Government Efficiency. The full membership of the committee, confirmed today, is Steve Barclay, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Dowden, Minister without Portfolio and Michael Ellis, Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office.Ideal Heating and DCG team up to address installation skills gaps
Boiler and heat pump manufacturers Ideal Heating have teamed up with Derby College Group (DCG) to launch its first multi-faceted training facility that will support and upskill current and future installers.
Ideal Heating, part of Groupe Atlantic, has been providing central heating boilers to the domestic as well as heating solutions to commercial markets since 1906 and the DCG training suite is their first partnership with a UK college to include their full range of equipment including high-efficiency boilers and air source heat pumps.
The training suite has been developed at DCG’s Roundhouse technical and professional skills college in Derby’s Pride Park where Ideal Heating’s team will deliver expert training themselves and also share their knowledge with the College’s teaching staff as part of their professional development.
Ideal Heating training director Andrew Johnson explained: “As one of the UK’s leading boiler manufacturers, we have long recognised the importance of training across the industry to ensure that our products are installed correctly for maximum efficiency.
“We are also committed to playing our part in training the installers of the future and raising awareness amongst young people of the career opportunities available to them.
“We chose to open this new training facility for the East Midlands at DCG because of their amazing facilities and easy access by road and rail.
“We look forward to developing the relationship over the coming months – welcoming installers into the facility and sharing our expertise with the DCG teaching staff to ensure students and apprentices are work ready for the exciting developments underway in this industry as part of the UK’s decarbonisation agenda and the drive towards Net Zero by 2050.”
DCG’s assistant principal – technology Brian Malyan continued: “Having the latest training equipment installed here at College is beneficial not only to the local and regional companies who are installing Ideal Heating’s equipment in homes and commercial premises but also to our students and apprentices who are the installers of the future.
“As a College, we are committed to working with companies across a wide range of sectors to co-design and co-deliver our curriculum and ensure that our students and apprentices have the skills, behaviours and attitudes they need to successfully enter the world of work.
“Our relationship with Ideal Heating is therefore a win/win for the company, local installers and the College alike.”
