PEAK gateway resort breaks ground
The PEAK gateway resort on the eastern boundary of the Peak District has broken ground, with Phase One scheduled to open to visitors in 2027/8.
Consented on 283 acres of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose built national park gateway ‘resort town’.
PEAK Gateway will offer visitors facilities and services as a base from which to access the trails and attractions of the 550 square mile National Park. Similar to a ski resort, PEAK Gateway has visitor mobility at its heart. PEAK’s mobility system will link up the trails and country lanes of the Peak District without the need for a car and help establish the area as the largest integrated off and on road cycling and hiking region in the UK.
Planning approvals totalling 1.8m sq ft have been granted to facilitate a multi-branded mixed use development available to both day and stay visitors. The approvals offer extensive experiential retail, a wide range of leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic with operating theatres, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development has consent for its own energy park.
PEAK Gateway will be delivered by way of an incremental and phased ground leasing strategy. Heads of terms have already been agreed for the first two anchor plots with Colliers acting as Real Estate Adviser and leasing agents for Birchall Properties, the land owner. Phase One represents in the region of 30% of the consented development and is scheduled to open 2027/8.
Fully implemented PEAK has the potential to achieve a development value of over £1bn and sustain thousands of jobs. Around 70% of the reclaimed estate will be set aside for continued biodiversity gains as well as offer nature connectivity to encourage people’s engagement and delight in nature.
Sheffield City Region granted £2.85m for the construction of the now completed resort public highway access from A61 interchange at Sheepbridge and the new public rights of way around the resort estate.
The commencement of land formation works continues the delivery of the outcomes promised by the grant. Booths Group have been appointed lead contractor for the land formation activity.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Acting Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “PEAK offers an opportunity to use formerly open cast land in a way that supports nature but also creates new opportunities for our residents and increases the number of visitors coming to Chesterfield. It is great to see work starting on site and I look forward to seeing the development progress.”
Scott Knowles, CEO of the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, said: “PEAK’s gateway manifesto provides the opportunity for regional businesses to participate in the construction and operation of a world class ESG exemplar enterprise celebrating and making available the cultural and natural assets of our region.”
Jo Dilley, Managing Director, Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, said: “The PEAK Gateway development, is a transformative project that will redefine the visitor experience in the Peak District. With the introduction of high quality serviced hotels, we will be able to cater to more groups and international visitors, offering world-class accommodations and amenities.
“The sustainable transport solution at the heart of PEAK will not only enhance the visitor experience by providing seamless access to the park’s trails and attractions but also significantly reduce car traffic in busy hotspot areas, a change that will be warmly welcomed by local residents. This development marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and enjoyable future for all who visit and live in and around the Peak District.”
James Shorthouse, Head of Alternative Markets at Colliers Real Estate, said: “We are delighted to have advised PEAK, and to be delivering exciting new developments bringing visitors and employment to Chesterfield and the East Midlands region of the UK.”
Matthew Booth, Founder of The Booth Group, said: “This is a three year programme for Booth’s and perfectly complements our specialism of regenerative land solutions bringing challenging landscapes back into beneficial use. We are thrilled to be part of the iconic Peak Gateway development, activating the UK’s growth potential through the regeneration of land for local communities and legacy value.”
Rupert Carr of Birchall Properties said: “From the outset PEAK has been a land first business, over 30 years and millions of pounds has been invested in the revival of the former opencast estate and the obtaining of now implementable planning permissions.
“It’s great to finally be underway and to be involved in a regenerative enterprise capable of activating and sustaining clean growth in the regional visitor economy.”
Sixth new recruit for Link ICT
Link ICT has expanded its team further following the appointment of Daniel Woodward as an IT Technician. This will be the company’s sixth new addition in just under a year, increasing the total number of employees to 17 people.
In his new role, Daniel, who lives in Chesterfield, will be providing on-site IT support to Link ICT’s growing client base of schools, academy groups, and businesses based across the East Midlands region.
Daniel previously worked for Currys Plc where he started as an instore IT support technician helping customers define their needs, setting up laptops and giving customers one-to-one tutorials on their new devices.
He later transferred to the regional hub in Newark and became a regional repair technician where he worked as part of a team repairing IT equipment and recycling components from many different devices including laptops, desktop towers, all-in-one PCs, and televisions.
Prior to this he was the IT Systems Administrator for a small chain of local hotels, where he helped to design networks, implement solutions for complex issues, and train staff how to use the equipment. His role also included a project to install in-room wifi access.
Commenting on his new role, Daniel said: “I have loved working IT ever since I did my work experience years ago when I visited local schools and helped the local IT technician with similar tasks to the role I will be doing at Link ICT. This was a wonderful experience, and I have never once regretted my career choice.
“Obviously, there are now huge technological differences, such as working with Cloud Servers and Mobile Device Management systems, but I am sure I will thoroughly enjoy the role, and I look forward to helping clients and adding to my skills and experience.”
In his spare time Daniel has a huge number of interests, from quizzing to creating websites, digital design, mobile application development and desktop application development. He also has a keen interest in motorcycles and helicopters.
Link ICT was founded in 2004 and recently re-located to new offices in Pride Park, Derby.
Sales grow at Dunelm
Dunelm Group, the Leicester-headquartered homewares retailer, has seen a rise in second quarter sales.
According to a trading update for the 13-week period ended 28 December 2024, sales grew by 1.6% to £490m, in a challenging market.
It sees first half sales reach £894m, a 2.4% increase, with the business’s furniture categories performing particularly well. “We are pleased with this solid performance in a market which remained volatile,” Dunelm shared.
Nick Wilkinson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We’re pleased with our performance in the first half; we are growing sales and volume, with customers again responding well to the value and choice we offer across our ranges.
“At the same time, we’ve made significant strategic progress across multiple initiatives which are helping us to improve our attractive, specialist offer and continue to gain market share. We have taken our first steps outside the UK with the acquisition of 13 stores in Ireland, opened our first inner London store in Westfield, and made further improvements to our online customer experience which is contributing to continued strong digital growth.
“As we move into the second half of FY25, we have successfully launched our Winter Sale which is being well received by customers seeking amazing value across a wide choice of relevant products for the colder months. As we navigate this challenging environment, we see even more opportunities to harness our unique business model, raise the bar on our proposition and fulfil our ambitions as The Home of Homes.”
Revenue slips at Ibstock in challenging year for construction markets
The CEO of Ibstock, the Leicestershire-headquartered manufacturer of building products, has praised the business’s “resilient performance” in 2024, in a new trading update, despite a dip in revenue.
Full year revenues at the company are expected to have decreased by 10% to approximately £365 million, in comparison to £406 million in 2023. The decline comes in hand with 2024 being a challenging year for UK construction markets, with total UK brick deliveries expected to be over 30% below the 2.5 billion recorded in 2022.
Ibstock highlighted a progressive improvement in sales volumes across the second half of 2024, with revenues in H2 2024 being 3% ahead of the prior year period and 6% ahead of H1 2024.
Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 is expected to be approximately £79 million.
Joe Hudson, CEO of Ibstock PLC, said: “We are pleased to have delivered a resilient performance, consistent with the guidance we gave at the half year, in a market where revenues continued to be impacted by subdued activity levels.
“This result reflects our active management of capacity and cost, continued disciplined pricing and a progressive improvement in demand across the second half, as expected.
“Looking to 2025, we expect a further improvement in market volumes to build through the year. We made good strategic progress during 2024 to add efficient and sustainable new capacity to our network and we will continue to bring capacity back into production selectively to support our customers.
“We see a significant opportunity for a new era in housebuilding in the UK and with the investments we have made and our market leadership positions, the Group remains well placed to support this over the medium term.”
Heritage Fund supports final phase of museum transformation project
The National Lottery Heritage Fund has announced its initial support for the final stage of transformation at a Leicester museum.
Development funding of £411,111 has been awarded to Leicester City Council that will allow it to work up its latest plans for Leicester Museum & Art Gallery in more detail, before it applies for a full grant of more than £5 million next year.
Made possible thanks to National Lottery players, the funding means that the council can now develop its proposals for a scheme that would complete the refurbishment of Leicester Museum.
Plans include two brand new galleries that would focus on the people and the events that have shaped the city’s history over the past 2,000 years, new teaching spaces, and a major new environment gallery that would cover themes such as natural history and climate change.
The new gallery would mean a welcome return for some of the animals in the city’s natural history collection, with new displays and new interpretation reflecting the changes in attitude to the environment that have taken place over the last 20 years. The animals have been in storage since the Wild Space gallery closed last year.
As part of the Voices of Leicester project, an extensive activity plan would also be rolled out to engage with local communities, ensuring that those who live in the city today can help shape the museum’s exhibits and events.
Thanks to the funding, the council will now appoint design teams to develop detailed schemes for the new galleries and carry out some initial public engagement activities to help it work up its final proposals. An application to the Heritage Fund for a full grant of £5,234,445 will be submitted in spring/summer 2026, which – if successful – would fund the new galleries.
Assistant city mayor for culture Cllr Vi Dempster said: “Leicester Museum has been welcoming people for more than 175 years, but the old building has needed ongoing investment to bring it up to the standards of a modern visitor attraction.
“Over the past 10 years we’ve been upgrading the infrastructure of the building, installing new lifts and ramps, for example, to improve access to all areas of the museum – and this week, we’ve started work on a major scheme that will create a new suite of art galleries, a new shop and a brand new café.
“But this initial funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the icing on the cake.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, we have the opportunity to complete the refurbishment of Leicester Museum with a project that would include two new galleries that would delve into the city’s 2,000-year history, and an important new gallery that would focus on key environmental themes, including climate change.
“We’ve called this our Voices of Leicester project because listening to what people want to see and do at Leicester Museum is so important, if the museum is to continue to be relevant to visitors from all of Leicester’s communities.
“We’re extremely grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, whose support will help us ensure that every gallery and every space at Leicester Museum offers visitors an exceptional experience, allowing us to reach even more people within Leicester and beyond.”
Robyn Llewellyn, Area Director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are pleased to support Leicester City Council with their ambitious plans for Leicester Museum & Art Gallery’s redevelopment.
“Thanks to National Lottery players this project will create new opportunities to engage Leicester’s communities with heritage and spark discussion, learning and enjoyment.”
Fusion energy development gets £410m investment
Researchers developing cutting-edge fusion energy are being given investment of £410m investment to kickstart economic growth.
The funding will support rapid development of the UK fusion energy sector over the next two years, with investment in the skills needed for scientists, engineers, welders and programme managers to enter the cutting-edge industry. Fusion already supports at least 2,400 jobs in the UK, with thousands more to follow as the technology advances.
Industry leaders have been shortlisted by UK Industrial Fusion Solution
Mayor for the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “This is fantastic news for Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands, a region that’s ready and willing to lead the way in clean, green energy.
“I am delighted the government is committed to this investment in the East Midlands and look forward to working together to kickstart a green industrial revolutions, creating skilled jobs in our former coal mining communities.”
Five construction and engineering bids have progressed to the next round of the UKIFS competition to deliver the prototype fusion energy plant by 2040, driving progress towards the commercialisation of fusion in the UK to supply families and businesses with secure, clean and unlimited energy.
Professor Sir Ian Chapman, UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) CEO, said: “I am delighted by the strong support from government to delivering fusion as a safe, sustainable energy of the future, and to anchor this exciting new industry in the UK.”Office building let at The Triangle
A major office deal has been completed at one of Nottingham’s most prestigious addresses.
The transaction has seen the 4,055 sq ft building on the NG2 Business Park, on the fringe of Nottingham city centre, let.
The two-storey building sits alongside existing occupiers including Experian, Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover, Pentland, Specsavers, Staffline and VF Northern Europe.
Charlotte Steggles, Director at NG Chartered Surveyors, brokered the deal on behalf of a private landlord client. Amy Howard of FHP Property Consultants acted for the new tenant.
Charlotte said: “This is a great outcome for both the new occupier and our forward-thinking landlord who has continued to invest in The Triangle.
“This city fringe location combines the benefits of city centre premises with the attraction of a modern business park environment that also provides good access to the city’s main arterial route, and this deal shows that demand for high quality office space is very much alive and kicking in the city.”
Amy said: “We are pleased to have successfully assisted our retained client in securing their office suite after an extensive year-long search for the ideal fit for their requirements.
“NG2 Business Park, located on the fringe of Nottingham city, offers a prime location with nearby amenities such as cafes, bars and restaurants as well as excellent transport links and secure parking. The business park provides the perfect out-of-town office space within an in-town location.”
2025 Business Predictions: David Roberts, owner and founder of JDR Group
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to David Roberts, owner and founder of Derby digital marketing agency JDR Group.
2024 has been a pivotal year for the marketing industry, particularly for SMEs.
More business owners are recognising the importance of digital marketing, not just to attract customers but to streamline operations, align marketing and sales and improve decision-making through data-driven insights.
The ability of CRMs to automate processes, track KPIs, and predict outcomes is becoming a fundamental part of business strategy and companies which invest in CRMs and AI-driven platforms are reaping the benefits.
Both these technologies had a significant effect on SMEs during 2024.
Demand for marketing agencies remains strong, but there’s a noticeable trend of businesses attempting to bring marketing in-house. While this can provide a sense of control, it often leads to challenges in managing marketing and sales effectively, resulting in missed opportunities.
Marketing agencies that stay ahead of technological advancements, especially in AI, and demonstrate their value to clients will continue to thrive.
Agencies will need to demonstrate they can deliver better results faster, which requires constant upskilling and investment in technology, and they will need to clearly communicate their value and show measurable results to retain clients.
We are confident and optimistic about 2025, because we have experienced downturns before and this experience gives us a strong foundation to navigate whatever 2025 brings.
The biggest factor influencing businesses in 2025 will be uncertainty, particularly regarding the new government’s policies, taxation, and economic trends. New employment laws, rising taxes, and energy policy changes are all likely to affect SMEs.
These factors could have a knock-on effect on smaller businesses in their supply chains or local economies, so businesses will need to plan ahead, understand their ideal customers and implement systems to attract and retain those customers.
Marketing agencies will need to be proactive in helping them with this, while they will need to also be mindful of new technology which will affect the marketplace.
We know about the effect of AI, which will continue to transform marketing, but also we are looking at driverless cars in the USA, where the technology is advancing rapidly and where Tesla is looking to launch innovations, and blockchain.
Companies will need to stay informed about all of these innovations to ensure they do not miss out on any opportunities they’ll bring during the next 12 months.
Nottingham team acts on major petrol stations purchase
Law firm Freeths Nottingham has advised Zuber Issa, CEO of EG On The Move, on the acquisition of Applegreen’s 98 petrol filling stations across the UK, boosting its forecourt presence.
The purchase is expected to be completed by the end of the month, bolstering the business’s sites to almost 150. EG On The Move is known for its electric vehicle fast charging features and franchises.
As part of the deal, all 1,142 Applegreen’s UK petrol filling roles will be retained, bringing the EG On The Move employee headcount to 4,500.
The transaction was led by Freeths’ Real Estate Partner Atiyya Khaliq, supported by (amongst others) Managing Associates Michaela Maosn and Zac Clayton, and Associate Sam De La Bertauche.
Commenting on the deal, Atiyya Khaliq said: “As a long-standing client, it’s always a pleasure to support the team with its ongoing strategic growth. This deal secures a wider presence across the South of England, cementing its position as leader within the market.”
UK economy returns to growth
The UK’s economy returned to growth in November.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, expanded by 0.1%, although this was below expectations of 0.2% growth. It reverses a 0.1% fall in October.
It reflects, across key sectors, monthly services output expanding by 0.1% in November, after falling by 0.1% in October, construction output increasing by 0.4% in November, following a fall of 0.3% in October, and production output falling by 0.4% in November, following a fall of 0.6% in October.
UK GDP showed no growth in the three months to November.
Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “After a string of disappointing data, it’s good to see that growth returned to positive territory in November, though the economy is still only on track for a very modest expansion at best over the final quarter of last year.
“In the wake of the Autumn Budget a mood of caution seems to have settled over UK businesses. Many firms are entering 2025 with a focus on reducing operational expenditure, which is likely to weigh on pay, hiring and investment in the months ahead.
“The Government can help shift the UK’s economic narrative with more determined focus on measures that could underpin growth.
“Reforming the business rates system, implementing flexibility in the Apprenticeship Levy and supporting people to stay in work through expanding employer occupational health provision would give businesses immediate flex for investment.
“In the long-term there is a pressing need to develop an effective industrial strategy that supports our whole economy.”
Plans to revitalise Boston’s Rosegarth Square take step forward with Crown House redevelopment approval
The planning application for the redevelopment of Boston’s Crown House has been approved. This mixed-use building will be a prominent part of the Rosegarth Square area.
The Crown House development will see a new mixed-use building featuring retail units on the ground floor and apartments on the remaining two storeys above. The scheme will also be enhanced with landscaping, parking and cycle storage to complement the overall Rosegarth Square masterplan, as well as relocating the current toilets and Changing Place into the new building. The scheme aims to transform Rosegarth Square as a thriving community space. It will provide the opportunity for the retail units to offer outside dining as well as the wider area being used by family and friends to meet up and enjoy this part of the town. The changes to the area will also enable quick and easy access to both the bus and train stations and become the gateway to the heart of Boston. This project is a significant part of the Rosegarth Square transformation. With planning permission and demolition notices, Boston Borough Council can now start with the next steps of this project.
The plans follow in the footsteps of the recently approved planning consent for the proposed public realm works, which features new artwork, external social spaces, and a new entrance/drop-off area for the Len Medlock Centre.
It will also include a sensory garden designed for quiet contemplation and reflection, as well as an amphitheatre-style seating area.
Councillor David Middleton, Chair of Planning Committee at Boston Borough Council, said: “The approval of the Crown House redevelopment is a significant milestone for Rosegarth Square and for Boston as a whole. This project exemplifies how thoughtful planning can transform underused spaces into vibrant hubs that benefit the entire community.
“The committee was impressed with the vision and detail in the plans, which will not only enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal but also provide practical benefits like improved connectivity and new facilities. We look forward to seeing this exciting development come to life.”
Nottinghamshire’s DEA Aviation secures new multi-million pound finance package
DEA Aviation, a specialised aerial data-acquisition company based in Nottinghamshire, has secured a multi-million pound finance package with Santander UK, supported by UK Export Finance (UKEF).
Natural energy snack brand raises £2.4m to fuel growth
TRIBE – the natural energy snack brand with a manufacturing site in Leicester – has raised £2.4m in a funding round led by Mercia Ventures and including Yeo Ventures, Crowdcube and private investors.
The funding will enable it to continue its rapid growth and make seven new senior appointments.
TRIBE’s products are all vegan, gluten-free and contain only natural ingredients. They are stocked at health food stores and major supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, the Co-op and Morrisons.
The company gives one pence from every TRIBE bar sold to its sister charity, TRIBE Freedom Foundation. To date over 400,000 people have taken part in its runs and events and it has raised more than £1.9m to combat modern slavery.
TRIBE was founded in 2015 by former lawyers Robert Martineau and Tom Stancliffe, who had previously set up Run for Love, a 1,000-mile run to raise funds to combat modern slavery. After realising they could not find energy snacks without refined sugars and additives, they decided to make their own.
TRIBE delivered revenue of £4m in 2024 and plans to reach over £20m by 2027. The company, which has its head office in London, employs a ten-strong team and uses a network of subcontractors, with logistics carried out in Dudley and manufacturing at sites in Leicester, Chester, Rochdale and Corwen, Wales.
As part of the funding round, the company has appointed a new Chair in the form of Steve Rich, the former Managing Director of FulFil who led its sale to Ferrero for £140m in 2022.
Tom Stancliffe, co-founder of TRIBE, said: “Our journey began with a 1,000-mile run to fight modern slavery and our mission is to fuel active lives with natural energy.
“We are really excited and proud to partner with Mercia and Yeo Ventures for the next stage in our journey. Our new Chair, Steve Rich, also brings huge experience and knowledge to our Board as we look to accelerate our growth.”
Rafael Joseph of Mercia Ventures added: “With consumers moving away from ultra-processed foods, healthy snacks are amongst the fastest-growing grocery categories.
“Restrictions on displaying ‘unhealthy’ foods in supermarkets are also bolstering TRIBE’s sales. TRIBE has all the ingredients for success – an exceptional product underpinned by consumer trends and the ideal team to back it up.”
Christopher Gale, Investment Manager at Yeo Ventures, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Tom and Rob, alongside the team at Mercia Ventures, to support TRIBE in the next phase of its growth journey.
“Positioned at the intersection of sports nutrition and healthy snacking, TRIBE provides a natural alternative to the ultra-processed products that no longer meet the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers.
“TRIBE aligns well with our thesis to drive the transition towards a natural and healthy food system, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful impact that the business will have in this evolving market.”
State-of-the-art storage facility completed for Rolls-Royce in Derby
Indurent, a developer and operator of industrial and logistics space across the UK, has completed and handed over a 148,000 sq ft state-of-the-art warehouse facility for Rolls-Royce.
The bespoke storage facility, which is located at Indurent Park Derby, will support the company’s significant manufacturing operation in Derby and increase space in its operational areas.
The unit has been built to the highest sustainability standards, achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditation and an EPC A+ rating for energy efficiency.
The Indurent team worked closely with Rolls-Royce throughout the design and build process, with the specification being adapted to meet Rolls-Royce’s exact needs, including enhanced floor loading three times greater than a standard floor, the installation of a single 12m high door and 100-ton capacity crane for the movement of valuable heavy parts.
The facility is equipped with 1MV of power with solar panels installed across the roof space for on site power generation to reduce energy costs. Indurent has also overseen the delivery and installation of bespoke climate control and lighting systems to the warehouse.
Indurent Park Derby is a 50-acre industrial park. In addition to Rolls-Royce, it is home to heat pump manufacturer Vaillant and Swedish medical technology company Getinge, which has established a Global Centre of Excellence for Chemistry at the park alongside its UK headquarters. Kia has also established their national base for training and development associated with their range of electric vehicles.
Rob Richardson, Development Director at Indurent, said: “We are extremely proud to complete and hand over this state-of-the-art facility for Rolls-Royce, a globally-renowned company which is at the forefront of innovation in manufacturing.
“The arrival of Rolls-Royce to Indurent Park Derby adds to the cluster of high-tech R&D and manufacturing businesses in Derby and underlines that the development of versatile industrial and logistics space, with the availability of a large amount of power, is critical for supporting high-growth sectors, creating a diverse mix of employment and boosting local economies.”
Terry Meighan, Infrastructure Director at Rolls-Royce, added: “The project was delivered on time and on budget but, most importantly, it was done safely. This facility is key to delivering our wider site redevelopment work and is the first of our significant builds to be completed.”
Winvic Construction was the lead contractor for Indurent on the unit, who were supported by Wakemans as project manager.
Affordable housing development site acquired in Langley Mill
Social enterprise Places for People (PfP) has acquired an affordable housing development site in Langley Mill, Derbyshire, working in partnership with Derby-based developer Wheeldon Brothers Ltd.
The Langley Mill site will be a key development supporting the launch of the organisation’s new apprenticeship and skills initiative PfP Thrive based out of its headquartered academy in Derby.
The new development will feature 109 homes, including 43 two- and three-bedroom homes for shared ownership and 66 homes for affordable rent. Designed as a mix of semi-detached, terraced and detached properties, each home will offer modern interiors and two dedicated parking spaces.
Phased construction is scheduled to begin in April 2025 and the sales launch planned for early 2026.
Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North at Places for People, said: “This development represents an important opportunity to provide high quality, affordable homes for the Langley Mill area, enhancing its appeal as a desirable place to live.
“With shared ownership making new-build homes more accessible, and the combination of high-quality design and excellent connectivity, the scheme promises to appeal to a diverse range of residents, contributing to a thriving and inclusive community.
“Thanks to our successful collaboration with Wheeldon Brothers, we are pleased to address the demand for new housing in this location and we are actively seeking further development sites in the East Midlands.”
Founder of Leicester sustainable travel consultancy appointed to board of Modeshift
Robin Pointon, Managing Director and Founder of Leicester-based sustainable travel consultancy GO Travel Solutions, has been appointed to the board of Modeshift, a membership organisation for sustainable travel practitioners.
Robin has extensive experience in the transportation sector, having worked with Leicestershire County Council and Midland Fox/Arriva in public transport roles. As the founder of GO Travel Solutions in 2008, Robin has been dedicated to developing innovative travel planning solutions that encourage sustainability.
“I am excited to be joining the Modeshift board and support its national initiatives,” said Robin. “I believe my experience in sustainable travel will be beneficial to Modeshift’s future endeavours and I look forward to fostering positive change through collaborative partnerships.”
Ross Butcher, Chair of Modeshift, welcomed Robin to the board: “We are delighted to have Robin join the Modeshift board. His extensive experience and commitment to sustainable travel will be a valuable addition to our efforts in promoting and advancing sustainable travel practices across the country.”
Topping out held at new local centre in Leicestershire
A topping out ceremony has been held at a new local centre at New Lubbesthorpe in Leicestershire which is being delivered by developer Charterpoint in association with The Drummond Trust.
The event was attended by delegates from Blaby District Council – councillors and planners, Lubbesthorpe Parish Council, Leicestershire County Council, Forest House Medical Centre, The OWLS Academy Trust, the local Primary Care Network, Bentley Project Management and surveyor CJ Consilium, who joined representatives from Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust for the event.
It marked a significant milestone in the construction of the two-storey, mixed-use development known as the Brook Centre.
When completed, it will house a Sainsbury’s Local store and four additional units for retail, including a café/bistro, on the ground floor, with the first floor being occupied by Forest House Medical Centre.
Charterpoint MD Giles Nursey said: “We were very pleased to stage a topping out ceremony at Brook Centre to mark a key milestone in the delivery of this important community facility for New Lubbesthorpe.
“It was the perfect opportunity for the Charterpoint team to demonstrate the progress that has been made on site. Once completed, Brook Centre will provide new retail facilities and a café/bistro, plus a new base for Forest House Medical Centre – all enhancing the facilities of this pioneering new community.”
Brook Centre will be the first local centre at the new community in Blaby which will eventually include more than 4,000 new homes.
It was designed by Franklin Ellis Architects and is being built by Derby-based contractor Davlyn Construction on behalf of Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
Land sold for new Coalville care home
The former Coalville Van Centre and associated buildings located just off Ashby Road in Coalville have been sold in a deal arranged by specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie.
The site has been sold to Deeley Group and the company has agreed a deal with Exemplar Health Care to deliver a new care home which will provide comprehensive care for adults living with complex mental health needs, dementia, neuro-disabilities, and physical disabilities.
Deeley Group has now started work on the development with an anticipated completion date in 2026.
Work is underway to demolish the existing buildings to make way for the new care home which will feature 36 en-suite bedrooms split across three units.
Exemplar Health Care currently operates 50 complex care services across England.
Commenting on the deal, Sam Tyler from Mather Jamie, said: “This will be an exciting development for Coalville and ensure valuable brownfield land is utilised to deliver much needed local services which in turn will also create employment opportunities.”
Commenting on the acquisition of the site, Eleanor Deeley, Joint Managing Director at Deeley Group, said: “As demand for high-quality, complex care grows, we are delighted to have been able to secure a site to deliver this for those in Coalville and the surround areas.
“We are delighted that Mather Jamie has helped us to secure the site and to be working to deliver the 36-bed scheme for Exemplar Health Care, this is our sixth scheme with Exemplar and further cements our partnership.”
Optimising logistics: how technology is transforming fleet management
Logistics often resembles a complex balancing act, where efficiency, compliance, and cost must be managed simultaneously. The introduction of cutting-edge technology is reshaping how businesses handle their logistics, leading to significant improvements in performance and cost-effectiveness. Advanced software solutions allow companies to streamline processes and gain a competitive edge in logistics operations.
The impact of technology on logistics efficiency
Technological advancements are revolutionising the logistics industry by automating processes that were once time-consuming and manual. Automated systems empower businesses to manage shipments and inventory more effectively. For example, automated route optimisation tools enable the creation of the most efficient delivery routes, factoring in variables such as traffic patterns and delivery schedules. This enhances the speed of deliveries and reduces fuel costs, thus boosting overall operational efficiency. A GPS fleet tracking system further enhances logistics efficiency by providing real-time location data for vehicles, allowing companies to optimise their fleet’s performance. Predictive analytics plays a crucial role in logistics management by analysing historical data to forecast demand accurately. This capability enables businesses to optimise inventory levels and plan for fluctuations in supply and demand. By taking a proactive approach, companies can reduce waste, improve service levels, and enhance customer satisfaction. These technologies contribute to operational efficiency while providing valuable insights that inform strategic decision-making.Enhancing compliance and safety through technological solutions
Adhering to regulatory requirements is an essential part of logistics management. By using compliance tools, businesses can effectively meet local and international regulations, avoiding fines and operational interruptions. Automating compliance reporting simplifies this process, ensuring companies maintain necessary documentation and consistently track safety standards without errors. Additionally, technology has enhanced safety measures within logistics operations. Software solutions that offer vehicle inspection features enable detailed assessments and maintenance management. By proactively conducting inspections and staying on top of maintenance schedules, businesses can prevent breakdowns and accidents, ensuring the safety of drivers and cargo. Driver monitoring systems contribute significantly to safety as well. These technologies track driver behaviour, such as speeding and harsh braking, providing opportunities for coaching and improvement. Prioritising safety protects assets, mitigates liability, and enhances a company’s reputation in the market.The role of real-time data in logistics decision-making
Real-time data access is a transformative element of modern logistics management. Connected devices allow companies to monitor operations continuously, gaining insights into delivery statuses, vehicle conditions, and driver performance. This capability enables businesses to make informed decisions quickly, addressing issues as they arise and ensuring smooth operations. Visibility is vital in logistics. Real-time tracking enhances supply chain transparency, enabling companies to address traffic delays or maintenance disruptions quickly. This responsiveness reduces losses and builds trust with customers who rely on timely, dependable service. Utilising data analytics alongside real-time information provides a comprehensive view of operations. Businesses can identify trends and uncover inefficiencies, making data-driven decisions that enhance logistics processes. This analytical approach fosters a proactive mindset, empowering businesses to anticipate challenges rather than merely react to them.Streamlining supply chains with integrated technologies
Integrating technology solutions into a cohesive logistics strategy can significantly streamline supply chains. Connecting different systems creates a seamless flow of information that enhances communication and collaboration among stakeholders. An integrated approach ensures that everyone, from suppliers to customers, has access to the same data, fostering transparency and trust. Collaboration tools enable improved communication among all parties in the logistics process. When suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors share real-time information, they can coordinate more effectively, reducing delays and misunderstandings. This cooperative method is particularly important during disruptions, where quick adjustments are essential to maintain service levels. Incorporating machine learning into logistics systems can further enhance decision-making. Algorithms can analyse historical data and predict outcomes, assisting businesses in identifying the best course of action in various scenarios. This increases operational efficiency and allows companies to respond proactively to market changes.Implementing technology solutions: best practices for local businesses
For businesses in the East Midlands seeking to optimise their logistics operations, implementing technology solutions effectively is crucial. Conducting a thorough assessment of current processes helps identify areas for improvement. Engaging with technology partners that offer tailored solutions can pinpoint the best tools to suit specific business needs. Training staff to adapt to new technologies is equally important. Ensuring employees understand the benefits and functionality of new systems fosters a culture of innovation and efficiency. Regular training sessions and feedback loops help organisations refine their approach and adapt to new challenges as they arise. Phased implementation of technology can facilitate a smoother transition. Starting with pilot projects allows companies to test new systems on a smaller scale before a full rollout. This method helps identify potential issues and adjust strategies accordingly, minimising disruptions to ongoing operations. Monitoring the performance of newly implemented technology is essential for continuous improvement. Regular assessment measures the effectiveness of solutions, allowing businesses to make data-driven adjustments as needed. By evaluating technology performance routinely, companies can ensure they maximise the benefits such tools offer.Gateley CEO “pleased” with half year results as revenue and profit rise
The CEO of Gateley, the professional services group, has said he is “pleased” with the acquisitive firm’s half year results.
For the six months ended 31 October 2024, group revenue grew to £86.3m, up from £82m in the same period of the year prior. Meanwhile, group underlying profit before tax rose to £10.6m, up from £10m. The results saw growth in legal services revenue (2.1%) overshadowed by revenue from consultancy services, which grew 13.6%.Rod Waldie, Chief Executive Officer of Gateley, said: “I am pleased with the Group’s performance in H1 25.
“The Group continues to benefit from the resilience created by our strategy of investing in a diverse and complementary range of professional services. We are pleased that our more recent organic investments are beginning to generate positive returns alongside the strong performance from our recently acquired businesses.
“Our balance sheet provides a strong foundation from which to take a long-term view of potential opportunities to further invest in both legal and consultancy services.
“Finally, as always, I would like to thank our clients for their support and our dedicated people for their ongoing hard work, commitment and can-do attitude.”
