A gruelling challenge to raise awareness of the construction industry’s most shocking statistic

Tess Egginton
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A gruelling challenge to raise awareness of the construction industry’s most shocking statistic

Craig Sanders, Protrade’s Joint Managing Director, wants to raise awareness of the most shocking statistic in the construction industry which sees a staggering two suicides per day from workers.

In an effort to put something back into an industry he has worked in for more than 30 years, Craig will be raising money for Lighthouse Club by completing the 355 miles Pennine Cycleway between the 2nd and 6th May. Lighthouse Club are the only charity to provide emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support for construction workers and their families.

We spoke to Craig about his Just Giving event and the reasoning behind it.

“I was shocked to hear that two construction workers take their own lives, every working day in the UK. I believe the construction industry has the second-highest statistic when it comes to suicides, which is both startling and devastating. Long working hours, tight deadlines, lack of a routine, working in isolation and separation from families, all contribute to poor mental health within the industry.

“I decided to complete the Pennine Cycleway route as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for a charity that supports the backbone of UK Construction; an industry I have worked in for the last thirty years. If my gruelling adventure means that just one more person is saved by getting the support they need, it’ll be the most rewarding thing I have ever done.

“We’re not exactly ‘in-shape’, so this will be challenging to say the least.”

Craig spoke of how he wasn’t aware of the statistics until he had looked into it. Although The Lighthouse Club’s work mainly focuses on mental health, they also work across a number of wellness areas within the construction industry, including financial which has become prevalent in recent years with everything that is happening.

A lot of construction workers often work away from home, are away from their families, have tight deadlines, and they’re operating within what is, notoriously, a macho environment where people don’t talk about how they feel.

“Since speaking to people within the industry about this, what’s clear to me is that everyone seems to know someone that has taken their own life. This is something that resonates with me, too. From my own experience, many years ago I worked on the trade counter and knew a guy that was a regular – lovely guy, with a great family – and I was shocked to find out that he had taken his own life two years ago. No one knew what he was going through or that he was struggling. That stays with you and more needs to be done to raise awareness of these issues within the industry.”

We asked Craig what message he would give to anyone that finds themselves in that situation.

“It’s easy to say you should speak to someone. That’s easier said than done and the reality is, though, people often don’t. I wasn’t even aware of the Lighthouse Club and I would suspect that there will be many others within the industry that are not aware of the charity and the incredible work they do. Hopefully, by doing this cycle ride, I will be able to raise their profile as well as money for them and what they do for the industry. They’ve got a 24 hour, seven days a week, phone line where workers can reach out and talk to them, offload, and get some support.”

Protrade’s Joint MD, Des Duddy, added: “I’d also say that if it was that easy to speak to someone, so many more people wouldn’t find themselves so far down the line. It’s almost like saying ‘snap out of it’ – if it was that easy, nobody would be depressed or struggle with their mental health. There’s an onus on organisations to create a culture whereby colleagues look out for one another.

“Certainly, since Craig started training for this event and dug into the story behind the Lighthouse Club, it has made us far more aware and conscious than we have ever been. This event that he is doing may well be for charity, but it’s tough. Craig has gone from doing nothing to something that is really strenuous and demanding on the body. A lot of the time with events like these it is a case that the person doing it is taking their hobby and extending it a little bit further. That’s not the case with Craig. He is a fish out of water and this is going to be a real challenge. It’s absolutely commendable what he’s doing.”

To donate to Craig’s Pennine Cycleway challenge and help support the valuable work of the Lighthouse Club, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/craig-sanders7

Notts businessmen take on Sri Lankan Tuk Tuk challenge for Rainbows

Tess Egginton
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Notts businessmen take on Sri Lankan Tuk Tuk challenge for Rainbows

Two Nottingham businessmen have completed a hair-raising challenge driving a Tuk Tuk around Sri Lanka to raise money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

Tom Tomlinson (35) and Drew Hewitt (33), both of West Bridgford, put their 10-year friendship to the test as they worked together to navigate the tiny three-wheel vehicle across a 400km route.

Taking it in turns at the wheel, Tom and Drew, drove through cities, towns, mountains and costal roads over six days earlier this month.

To date, they have raised £1,480 for Rainbows, which cares for children and young people with life-limited illnesses from the East Midlands – including those from Nottinghamshire.

Tom, who is Managing Director of Tomlinson Estate Management, was slightly apprehensive ahead of the challenge as the only training carried out was an hour’s Tuk Tuk driving around Belvoir Castle.

He said: “This was a tough, but an incredible challenge in a fabulous country. Many of the other Tuk Tuks broke down, but we were lucky ours didn’t. It was very difficult to drive over some of the terrain, but that was just part of the challenge, and we had a lot of fun.”

Last year Tom climbed Mount Snowdon with colleagues from Tomlinson Estate Management. They raised £2,778 for Rainbows.

He added. “Rainbows is very important to so many people. It is a fantastic place for big kids and little kids and the support they get, as well as their families, is just wonderful. I also know it has been a tough time for them to fundraise with all of the Covid restrictions, so we wanted to do as much as we could to help.”

Drew, who owns Gloryholes, a miniature golf course in Nottingham, added: “It was incredibly challenging at times with the conditions of the roads and unpredictable weather. Nevertheless, we always had a smile on our faces and were warmly greeted by all locals.”

Kirsty Coxon, Rainbows community fundraiser, said: “What they guys did was incredible. To take on such a challenge for us is fantastic and it sounds like they had a lot of fun while doing it. Supporters like Tom and Drew enable us to keep doing the work we do to brighten short lives and we thank them, and everyone who has sponsored them.”

To still support Tom and Drew, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Thomas-Tomlinson4

East Midlands business confidence slumps to lowest in UK

Tess Egginton
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East Midlands business confidence slumps to lowest in UK
Business confidence in the East Midlands fell six points during April to 16%, the lowest of any UK region or nation, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. Companies in the region reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 11 points at 19%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down one point to 13%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 16%. Despite the fall in confidence, East Midlands businesses flagged a range of growth opportunities for the next six months, including evolving their offering with new products or services (38%), investing in their teams (32%) and making the most of new technology (23%). The Business Barometer, which questions 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. A net balance of 19% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up six points on last month. Overall UK business confidence remained unchanged during April, at 33%. Firms’ outlook on their future trading prospects rose five points to 39%, but their optimism in the economy dipped slightly on March (down from 32% to 26%). The net balance of businesses planning to create new jobs also decreased by six points to 26%. Every UK region and nation reported positive confidence readings in April. Wales (up 25 points to 20%), the South East (up 19 points to 30%) and the West Midlands (up 10 points to 42%) reported the largest increases month-on-month, with the West Midlands now the most optimistic region overall. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “While it is disappointing to see this fall in confidence, it certainly isn’t all doom and gloom. There is still a positive reading overall, with many firms seeing opportunities to grow or expand their teams this year. “There are exciting plans afoot in the region too, including a new ‘Gigafactory’ in Leicester that will potentially kick off next year, which will no doubt bring a boost to businesses across the supply chain. We’ll be sure to play our part in helping firms to navigate the current challenges they are facing so they can continue to target growth in future.” From a sector perspective, manufacturing confidence increased by eight points to 43%, erasing part of the 19-point decline in March, helped by somewhat stronger trading prospects. Retail and services confidence, however, were little changed on the month and is weaker than at the start of the year, with businesses increasingly concerned about the outlook for the wider economy. Retail confidence edged up one point to 29%, while services confidence was unchanged at 32%. Construction confidence fell for a second month to 33%, but is still on a par with the all-sector average. Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “April’s data is mixed and follows the significant decline in business confidence in March after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Although firms reported a partial recovery in their trading prospects, optimism for the wider economy declined for a second successive month. “Positives remain as overall confidence is above the long-term average, but it is still expected that growth will moderate over the coming months and many businesses will remain cautious as they face into these headwinds.”

RammSanderson in conservation success at Friar Gate, Derby

Tess Egginton
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RammSanderson in conservation success at Friar Gate, Derby
RammSanderson, working alongside Clowes Developments Ltd, have led a successful translocation of the rare plant Common Broomrape (Orobanche minor) from the former Friar Gate station and rail yard in the centre of Derby, as the first step towards the regeneration of this area of the City Centre. The plant has very specific habitat requirements and is only found in a handful of locations across Derbyshire. It lacks chlorophyll, which gives many plants their green leaf colour and also provides them the means of turning sunlight, plus water and nutrients from the soil, into energy to fuel them to grow. Instead, this plant is parasitic and feeds off the roots of its ‘host’ plants to survive. Clowes Developments Ltd, owner of the Friar Gate site consulted RammSanderson with regards to ecology early on when proposals began to take shape to assess and make safe the fire-damaged Friar Gate site. In doing so, the site was identified as containing the rare Broomrape plant. The work to inspect the buildings, by the design team (Architects: Maber, Engineers: Jackson Purdue & Lever) is being carried out by Derby firm Cawarden and to complete this safely, large, specialist access cranes will be brought onto site. For that to happen a haul road needed to be built on-site and the rare plants were exactly where the haul road needed to be installed. For that reason, RammSanderson acted quickly to find new homes for the plants and move them before work on site commenced. Spearheaded by director Oliver Ramm, the company engaged with a cross-party stakeholder group including Clowes Developments Ltd, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and Severn Trent Water to secure receptor sites for over 30 of these plants: “Through early engagement with the whole project team, to understand the needs of our client and through stakeholder liaison we’ve been able to identify the issue and use our initiative to provide the opportunity for the long-term survival and spread of these plants at several locations across Derby and Derbyshire, which is a fantastic achievement.” The approach taken involved reviewing a number of possible receptor locations across Derbyshire, then selecting the most appropriate sites. The plants were then translocated and the nominated receptor sites are on land owned and operated by Severn Trent Water, for whom RammSanderson are a framework consultant, and so have an excellent working relationship. The plants will be monitored and managed by RammSanderson’s Habitat management team with liaison via Severn Trent and funds secured from Clowes Developments Ltd to ensure their continued success. Oliver added: “Because the inspection and stabilisation work to the Bonded Warehouse and Engine Shed only needed Listed Building Consent, the City Council didn’t need to consult on ecological matters as with a normal planning application. The client was under no legal or planning obligation to do the translocation, but being a responsible developer, Clowes gave us the freedom to act on their behalf and ensure these rare plants were removed from harms way. “My thanks go to Clowes and their Design Team; everyone involved at Severn Trent Water who’ve been fantastic in letting us move these plants onto their land; to Derbyshire Wildlife Trust for their involvement and collaboration; and to my team who’ve worked very hard to make sure this all happened before the work on-site commenced. We’ll now be monitoring the plants in their new homes for the next five years to make sure the plan has worked.”

Window open for £17m building framework across Nottinghamshire

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Window open for £17m building framework across Nottinghamshire
SME contractors across Nottinghamshire are being invited to secure their role in £17 million-worth of construction and retrofitting projects being procured by Arc Partnership Limited for Nottinghamshire County Council. Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and public sector procurement specialist SCAPE, has outlined the timetable for its General Building framework, with SME contractors across the county now able to respond to a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) to submit their interest to tender. Running for a period of four years from 2023 to 2027, up to 33 contractors including SMEs will secure a place on the framework, delivering construction and maintenance services across Nottinghamshire County Council properties including County Hall. Following an initial period of market engagement, Arc Partnership has lowered some barriers to entry by reducing the turnover-based requirements on a range of lots across the framework. Firms will have until midday 17th June to answer the PQQ. The second-generation framework marks a £7million expansion on the cumulative value of projects being procured through Arc Partnership’s existing framework. The expansion will further aid the growth of local businesses while delivering extensive social value in local communities, including through skills development. SME contractors across Nottinghamshire will sit at the heart of the new framework, with the successful firms well positioned to contribute to the county’s ongoing regeneration. So far Arc Partnership projects have generated more than £210 million in local investment, with almost £190 million in contracts for Nottinghamshire businesses. Councillor Reg Adair, Vice-Chairman of the Economic Development and Asset Management Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “Enhancing the local economy and promoting a prosperous community for our residents is our number one priority. We remain committed to creating the right environment for businesses to succeed. Local contractors are a vital part of this and are the cornerstone of the new framework. “The second-generation framework embodies all of our ambitions for a brighter future for Nottinghamshire, as we strive to deliver more sustainable and cost-effective infrastructure, to make the best use of taxpayer’s money and achieve our long-term net zero ambitions.” Daniel Maher, Managing Director of Arc Partnership, said: “Delivery underpinned by value for money, quality of output, and customer excellence across our built environment programmes, on behalf of Nottinghamshire County Council, remains top of our agenda to support the county’s ongoing economic recovery. “In recent years, our framework has supported local contractors and provided them with a healthy pipeline of work to help them succeed and, in turn, create more employment opportunities by investing in the future of the region’s workforce. The expansion of our framework reaffirms our commitment to provide greater opportunities for local SMEs to deliver transformative programmes of work with a clear focus on community value.” The chosen contractors will also benefit from access to SCAPE’s network of delivery partners, allowing them to forge relationships with firms who are responsible for as much as £18bn in public sector investment – both in Nottinghamshire and across the UK. Arc Partnership, which was formed in 2016, currently supports more than 50 local businesses across its network of supply chain providers, delivering major projects, planned works, responsive repairs and servicing for the County Council.

Lincoln press release distribution service acquired by US firm

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Lincoln press release distribution service acquired by US firm
3BL Media, the environmental, social and governance (ESG) content distribution and analytics platform for purpose-driven companies, has acquired RealWire Limited, expanding audience and reach in the United Kingdom and Europe. The acquisition is the eighth for 3BL Media since 2009. Terms were not disclosed. “Companies worldwide are committing themselves to ESG performance and transparency, and the combination of RealWire with 3BL Media will provide greater reach to stakeholders including online news outlets, journalists and investors,” said Dave Armon, CEO of 3BL Media, adding that previous UK acquisitions included Ethical Performance and ReportAlert. Based in Lincoln, since launching in 2000, RealWire specializes in increasing the online impact of press releases while cultivating positive relationships with business and trade journalists. RealWire’s editorial and client services team, led by Managing Director Emily Gosling, will enhance 3BL Media’s distribution network by providing concierge service to the growing journalist corps covering climate and sustainability topics. “Historically, RealWire has been an important B2B communications platform for technology, telecoms and healthcare businesses,” said Gosling. “We have seen ESG rise on our clients’ agenda, so joining 3BL Media will enable us to reach new audiences immediately on a global scale while we apply our unique model for micro-targeting to beat reporters who opt into our distribution network.” Of the more than 8,000 reports and stories on ESG topics that 3BL Media distributed last year, environmental topics generated the most volume and audience interest, said Armon. Diversity, equity and inclusion was the top content category in the first quarter of 2022.

First business development at the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone

Steve Fisher
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First business development at the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone

The first sale of land at the FEZ is complete with Holbeach-based business AJS Control & Automation now able to start work on their new development.

AJS have purchased a plot covering just over 0.6 acres to build a two-storey office, research and development facility and workshop premises over 12,905 square feet. Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy at the county council, said: “This is the first of many businesses that will benefit from locating at this amazing, collaborative site. The South Lincolnshire FEZ offers so much for local, national and multi-national firms at the forefront of the agri-food and technology sector. “We’re providing the infrastructure, collaboration opportunities and research capabilities that businesses need, but we’re also making it quicker and easier for them to locate here.” James Taylor, Managing Director at AJS Control & Automation said “We have been looking for a new property to house our three rapidly growing businesses for some time now. I was on the launch call for SLFEZ during lockdown and knew this was the place for AJS straight away! I believe this will form a community of likeminded businesses looking to work together to aid food production sustainability. Myself and all of our team cannot wait to get to our new site.” Other occupiers of the South Lincolnshire FEZ include the University of Lincoln’s National Centre for Food Manufacturing’s Agri-Food Centre of Excellence and Institute of Technology, as well as Lincolnshire County Council’s purpose-built, high quality business space, The Hub. Jasper Caudwell, at Pygott & Crone, the appointed marketing agent, said “AJS have been working alongside us from the very early stages and it gives us all great pleasure in seeing them take ownership of Plot 9. They will form an integral part in the future growth of the site and we are looking forward to seeing their development materialise. The completion of Plot 9 is a timely one, with the launch of the HUB building being just around the corner.” Sarah Louise Fairburn, Deputy Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Food Board, said “It’s fitting that the first commercial tenant to move onto our ground-breaking South Lincolnshire FEZ is a business focusing on one of the three themes our food industry has agreed for the UK Food Valley: supporting the automation and digital transition of the food chain. “The food industry is investing rapidly in automation, and with the University of Lincoln now the leading innovation centre for this technology in Europe, AJS can be assured that its growth will be well supported. In my own business I am developing new automated solutions for warehouse pick and pack and it’s vital that we facilitate the growth of a thriving automation cluster in Lincolnshire.” Councillor Nick Worth, South Holland District Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for people, places, economy, said: “It is great to see a local business take this exciting first step to join the FEZ, which will give a variety of innovative food businesses a unique location to support each other and develop together. “I look forward to seeing more new arrivals in the coming months, and the employment opportunities and boost to the economy these will bring for Holbeach, South Holland, and the wider area.”
 

Hat-trick of deals at Morris Court

Steve Fisher
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Hat-trick of deals at Morris Court
Commercial property specialists NG Chartered Surveyors have completed a hat-trick of deals at Morris Court on the ever-popular Colwick Industrial Estate in Nottingham. Acting on behalf of a private landlord, Charlotte Steggles at NG has let Unit 2 to electrical wholesale distributor Eyre & Elliston, Unit 5 to industrial bakery equipment supplier Maven; and negotiated a lease renewal on Unit 4 to Impact Electrical – an electrical wholesale business. Together, the deals mean that over 11,000 sq ft of space has been successfully let by NG. Charlotte said: “Morris Court is an incredibly popular location for growing businesses and I was incredibly pleased to get these deals completed on behalf of our landlord client. They now have three successful businesses as tenants, all of who recognised the value of a proactive landlord who invests in their property portfolio. “NG used our market knowledge to match up the two new tenants with these prime units and secured a satisfying outcome for our client on the lease renewal. I wish all three businesses all the best for their future at Morris Court and look forward to working with them again in the future.” Gavin Williams, Managing Director at Maven, said: “Maven are a growing business and this space will support us now and going forward. The move will mean a huge amount to us as it gives us the opportunity to grow and develop in the future. Charlotte and the whole NG team were great and kept us up to date on how things were going every step of the way.”

New electric vehicle charging forecourt on the cards for Markham Vale

Tess Egginton
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New electric vehicle charging forecourt on the cards for Markham Vale
A greener future may be on the cards at Markham Vale as Derbyshire County Council and HBD’s flagship regeneration site could become home to the county’s first all-electric vehicle charging forecourt – providing charge points for up to 36 vehicles at any one time just off the M1. Sustainable energy business GRIDSERVE wants to build the forecourt opposite the existing Enterprise Way service area with charge points for electric cars, HGVs and buses. If planning permission is granted, it would also create up to 25+ full time equivalent employment opportunities through the design, engineering, construction and operation phases. GRIDSERVE CEO, Toddington Harper, said: “We are committed to delivering EV charging infrastructure that both enables the transition to net zero carbon transport, and excites drivers to make the transition to electric vehicles. The geographical distribution of EV charging across the UK is essential to usher in the mass market era of electric vehicles. “This development would benefit the local community, and the wider UK as it reduces its reliance on fossil fuels. We are proud to have chosen the area of Markham Vale for this project and we hope the people across the region share our passion for delivering a cleaner, more sustainable future in the earliest possible timeframes.” Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “We welcome GRIDSERVE’s interest in Markham Vale and if their proposal is granted planning permission, the new EV forecourt will help to give motorists the confidence to make the switch to an electric vehicle and move us closer to our target of helping to get 1,000 public facing electric vehicle charge points in place throughout the county by 2025. “Decarbonising transport is one of our top priorities as part of our climate change strategy which aims to reduce emissions generated by the county council to net-zero by 2032 or sooner and help the rest of Derbyshire reduce carbon emissions generated within the county to net zero by 2050 or sooner.” Markham Vale is one of 100+ electric charging forecourts currently in development by GRIDSERVE and if planning permission is granted for the Derbyshire site it would be powered by renewable sources, with solar panels and on-site battery storage to capture and store electricity. Richard Hinds, development surveyor at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is one of the largest industrial and logistics schemes in the North, so it’s important that we look to the future to ensure that the right infrastructure is in place to provide motorists with clean energy. “We’re very pleased to welcome GRIDSERVE and look forward to working with the team as they bring their plans forward.” The planning application has been submitted to Chesterfield Borough Council.

Leicestershire-based property portfolio handed to Newton LDP

Steve Fisher
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Leicestershire-based property portfolio handed to Newton LDP
Newton LDP has been appointed by an established Leicestershire-based high net worth individual to manage a significant mixed property portfolio including approximately 3,000 acres. The new instruction comprises the owner’s private residence and grounds, agricultural land and farms, commercial forestry, let residential and commercial properties, stretching as far as Kent in the southeast to Scotland in the north. Management will fall under the scope of Newton’s LDP’s rural property team led by experienced Director Will Young, who joined the company in February, with over 20 years’ experience in the industry. Newton LDP operates nationally, and will be overseeing the landowner’s responsibilities and working with the owner to deliver a strategy which maximises the value of the portfolio. Will, who has a strong agricultural background as the son of a farmer, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for us, and we are delighted to be able to add value and realise the potential of our client’s diverse estate. “Newton LDP continues to add to its existing and diverse range of experience and expertise to facilitate its ambitious growth strategy. “It is therefore pleasing to secure the management of this exciting new property portfolio just a couple months after launching our new rural property team which expands our offering to farmers, land and property owners.” Newton LDP also offers development consultancy and development land agency advice to a range of clients. Richard Foxon and Piers Beeton are experienced and respected operators within the development land sector and can demonstrate a proven track record, strong reputation, unrivalled contact base, complimented by exceptional market knowledge.

Rolls-Royce SMR to create 400 jobs

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Rolls-Royce SMR to create 400 jobs
Rolls-Royce SMR has revealed it is creating 400 jobs and has appointed nuclear recruitment specialists, RPOne – part of the Morson Group – to support its recruitment campaign. Rolls-Royce SMR’s small modular reactor (SMR) programme is the first of its kind in the UK, with the opportunity to develop a factory-built nuclear power plant that is deliverable and scalable at a global level. Rolls-Royce SMR is the UK domestic energy champion and will play a key role in achieving the Government’s British Energy Security Strategy, which pledges to accelerate the expansion of nuclear by delivering the equivalent of one nuclear reactor per year instead of one per decade. Having begun the design assessment process with the UK regulators, the organisation is at a point where it needs to significantly increase its workforce. Roles will be open to experienced nuclear professionals, young talent and graduates alike. Adam Ellis, talent & HR director at Rolls-Royce SMR, said: “This is a perfect opportunity for talented individuals to join our team and bring new ideas and concepts to the table that will create a legacy for generations to come. “We want to build a diverse team of people with a background in science, a passion for nuclear, or from a sector with transferable skills, with a diverse mix of skills and experiences. This is the most exciting nuclear programme in the UK right now, and anyone joining the team has the chance to develop their role and carve a career for life.” Adam added: “RPOne and Morson share these exact ambitions for our future, and their proven nuclear credentials will play an important role in enabling us to source and retain the best talent.” Ged Mason OBE, CEO at Morson Group, said: “Rolls-Royce SMR has the potential to be truly pivotal in the way the UK – and the rest of the world – sources and uses power. The company is setting new standards in recruitment by opening its doors to anyone who has a passion to change norms in science. While there are several niche roles available, which require specific skillsets, others are open to those who want to help define our futures. “Equality, diversity & inclusion is vital to Rolls-Royce SMR, so part of our collaborative focus will be bringing multiple perceptions to the table. It’s a disruptor to the market, and we want candidates of all backgrounds, with all interests, to join the team to offer greater insight and creativity, so that Rolls-Royce SMR can deliver a solution that is representative of society today and in the future. “At its peak, the programme has the potential to create some 40,000 jobs and generate £52bn in economic benefit.”

OMS returns to sponsor the East Midlands Bricks Awards for another year

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OMS returns to sponsor the East Midlands Bricks Awards for another year
OMS has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022, backing the Architect of the Year award for another year.

Speaking with Business Link, Clive Ormerod, founder and Managing Director of OMS and chair of East Midlands Working Well Together, said: “OMS sponsored the East Midlands Bricks Awards for the Architect of the Year Award in 2021 and found the event excellent and it provided a good opportunity to meet people face-to-face and recognise the merits of the construction industry in the region.

“It provides OMS with an exciting opportunity to recognise the work that has gone into developing innovative building designs that integrate with their surroundings whilst meeting the needs of the people that use them. Architecture is where a new structure is conceived and with OMS being involved with delivering a range of training and consultancy to the construction sector this award comfortably fits with our business model.”

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: The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022 will also be awarded a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Find out who last year’s winners were here.

Book your tickets now

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

To be held at:

Chesterfield packaging manufacturer sells Sutton-in-Ashfield property

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Chesterfield packaging manufacturer sells Sutton-in-Ashfield property

Robinson, the Chesterfield-headquartered custom manufacturer of plastic and paperboard packaging, has sold a property in Sutton-in-Ashfield.

A joint venture between Rotherhill Developments Limited and Euro Property Investments Limited has snapped up the site, which is currently used by Robinson for the manufacture of plastic packaging, in an almost £2.5m deal.

As part of the transaction, Robinson will leaseback the property for six to nine months. During this period, production will be relocated to a recently refurbished building on existing Robinson premises in Kirkby-in-Ashfield.

The relocation will require investment of approximately £600,000 and will provide future opportunities to improve operational efficiency in the UK plastics business.

Subject to the necessary planning approvals, Robinson says it expects further sales of surplus property in Chesterfield to be achieved in the next 18 months. It added: “The intention of the group remains, over time, to realise the maximum value from the disposal of surplus properties and to reinvest the proceeds in developing our packaging business.”

Breedon “starts the year well” as revenue grows

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Breedon “starts the year well” as revenue grows

Breedon, the construction materials group, has “started the year well,” according to a trading update, with order intake and volumes following usual seasonal patterns through the first three months of 2022.

The company noted that end markets remain supportive, leading to reported and like-for-like revenue growth of 16% over the first quarter of 2021.

Meanwhile acceptance of rising input costs, and the increasingly dynamic price environment across all major product groups, has enabled full cost recovery through the quarter and is “encouraging,” Breedon said.

Rob Wood, CEO, said: “We recognise that international events have increased macroeconomic uncertainty. Nonetheless, we are encouraged that our end markets, particularly infrastructure and housing, remain supportive and we have successfully recovered input cost inflation in the first quarter through dynamic pricing.

“Our business offers a natural hedge against inflation and we remain confident in the resilience of our local operational model. Normal seasonal patterns of activity are evident with orders and enquiries increasing throughout the quarter and we continue to trade in line with management expectations.”

Derby’s first build to rent development to be named after Rolls-Royce’s engine

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Derby’s first build to rent development to be named after Rolls-Royce’s engine
Grainger plc will launch its first build to rent development in Derby next spring – and has now revealed the development will be named ‘The Condor’. The city’s first purpose-built rental development, which is based on the former Debenhams site on Victoria Street, has been named in recognition of the city’s engineering excellence, celebrating the aircraft engine built by Rolls-Royce in Derby in 1918. Famously recognised for its powerful engine system, Rolls-Royce Condor III, was one of the first engines built by Rolls-Royce. With up to 675 horsepower, the engine was experimentally flown to explore the operations of a diesel engine in flight – an innovative development in aviation history. Much like the famed engine, The Condor will be first of its kind in the city of Derby – a purpose built private rental community. With construction work well underway, The Condor, which is due for completion in spring 2023, will offer 259 one and two-bedroom apartments. The development will feature 2,962 sq ft of internal ground floor amenity space for residents, including a shared resident’s lounge and co-working space, as well as 2,185 sq ft of external rooftop space with a terrace overlooking the new public square. In addition to a gym, secure car parking, bike store, and electric car charging points, residents will also benefit from complimentary superfast WiFi and the services of a dedicated onsite Resident Services Team. Leesa Ingham, head of marketing at Grainger, said: “When naming a Grainger development, we take great care and effort to research the local area and understand the heritage of the site. “We identified several themes for our first development in Derby, but loved the idea of ‘The Condor’, given its historic links to the city. We were delighted when Rolls-Royce kindly agreed to letting us use The Condor for the name. “We look forward to drawing further inspiration from the engine in our designs as we head towards completion and launch of The Condor in 2023.” A spokesperson for Rolls-Royce said: “The famous Condor engine was state-of-the-art technology in its day, and we’re delighted that it is still a source of inspiration today.” Paul Morris, development director at St James Securities, added: “We have always been committed to maintaining the heritage of the Becketwell area of Derby and are delighted that Grainger are recognising the city’s engineering excellence by naming the build to rent development after the iconic aero engine, which was built in Derby.”

Chesterfield accountancy firm announces promotions and team expansion

Steve Fisher
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Chesterfield accountancy firm announces promotions and team expansion
Shorts Accountants is pleased to announce the promotion of two key members of its Radius team, which advises on R&D and Patent Box tax reliefs. Darryl Hoy has been promoted to the position of Technical Director within the Radius team, while Emily Hurdley has been promoted to manager. Furthermore, the Radius team continues to grow with the announcement that Matthew Pierce has joined the firm, also as Manager. Matthew’s appointment will augment the team’s continued growth and client service. This news caps off a successful year for the Radius team, despite a challenging business climate throughout the UK and across the world. HMRC investigations into R&D tax relief claims are due to increase as the treasury seeks to bolster tax revenues. As such, it’s vital to offer expert advice to claimant companies. Scott Burkinshaw, Tax Partner at Shorts and Head of Radius, said: “Radius is committed to making sure that the region’s innovative companies are able to claim their full entitlement to government backed R&D tax reliefs. The talent and expertise of our team is central to this, and the performance and contributions of Darryl and Emily have been consistently excellent. “They will continue to play a critical role in delivering and improving the Radius service. I also am delighted to welcome Matthew to Radius; his knowledge and experience will further solidify Radius as the leading R&D specialist in the region.” Shorts has traded in Chesterfield since SE Short established the practice in 1890. Now the largest independent accountancy firm in Chesterfield, Shorts has an established reputation as reliable and forward thinking accountants, taxation and business advisers.

Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust acquires stake in Lincs Offshore Wind Farm

Tess Egginton
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Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust acquires stake in Lincs Offshore Wind Farm

Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust has entered into an agreement to acquire a 7.75% ownership interest in the Lincs Offshore Wind Farm (Lincs).

Lincs, located off the east coast of England, has been operational since 2013 and benefits from the UK’s ROC regime, receiving 2 ROCs per megawatt hour of electricity generation during the first 20 years of operation.

It has an installed capacity of 270MW, made up of 75 turbines each of 3.6 MW spread across c. 35 square kilometres. Lincs is operated and managed by Ørsted, the largest energy company in Denmark and a leading developer and operator of offshore wind farms in the UK and globally.

Completion of the acquisition is expected to take place during Q2 2022 (subject to receipt of consents from existing investors and lenders). Following completion of the transaction, Lincs will represent approximately 10% of the company’s portfolio on a gross asset value basis.

Phil Austin, chairman of Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust, said: “Our investment into Lincs is ORIT’s first into an operational offshore wind farm, and will provide us with an additional revenue generating asset, that benefits from the favourable ROC subsidy regime and gives ORIT further portfolio diversification. The acquisition will also strengthen ORIT’s relationships with leading investors and operators in the offshore sector.“

125,000 sq ft Leicester logistics development acquired

Tess Egginton
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125,000 sq ft Leicester logistics development acquired
LondonMetric has acquired an urban logistics property in Leicester as part of a duo of deals worth £28.8 million. The REIT has snapped up a 125,000 sq ft urban logistics forward fund development at Crosslink 646 in Leicester which consists of two units and is expected to complete at the start of 2023. The largest unit totalling 90,000 sq ft is pre-let to EM Pharma Ltd on a new 15 year lease. The smaller 35,000 sq ft unit will be developed speculatively. The property is expected to be certified BREEAM Very Good with the benefit of a solar PV installation. LondonMetric has also acquired a 9 acre site in Droitwich which is used for vehicle storage and let to Amazon. Andrew Jones, Chief Executive of LondonMetric, said: “We are continuing to allocate capital into the strongest geographies within the distribution sector, where we can benefit from attractive entry yields and structurally supported occupier demand to capture superior rental growth.”

Unique Vale of Belvoir stables complex sold for residential conversion

Tess Egginton
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Unique Vale of Belvoir stables complex sold for residential conversion
A unique stables complex in the Vale of Belvoir has been sold by specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie to Sheppard Developments in partnership with Gatter Capital. Situated within the grounds of Wartnaby Castle, known as the ‘Little Belvoir Estate’, the site holds an elevated position above the Vale of Belvoir. Benefitting from full planning permission for the conversion of the existing stable yard and redevelopment of existing cottages, it is anticipated that four luxury residences will be constructed to include ample garaging and home working space. Also included within the sale is a parcel of paddock land which adjoins the stables that has potential for equestrian or amenity use. Commenting on the sale, Mather Jamie senior associate director, Gary Kirk, said: “We were delighted to be instructed on such a unique site. The nature of the range of buildings and their setting presented some interesting technical challenges from a marketing perspective. We look forward to watching this site come forward and deliver new homes, which will be in high demand.” Ben Sheppard from Sheppard Developments added: “We are very excited by this latest acquisition with its unique setting and architecture. It is fantastic to be working alongside Gatter Capital on our second project together creating high end, luxury and distinctive residential properties.” Originally constructed to compliment Wartnaby Castle, the 2 acre site comprises a range of traditional buildings including the stable yard and two adjoining cottages. The Little Belvoir Estate was constructed in 1839 and was likely built as a hunting facility with the stables being an integral part of the wider Estate’s original purpose.

Major UK developer will switch on commercial strategy for transformational East Midlands scheme

Tess Egginton
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Major UK developer will switch on commercial strategy for transformational East Midlands scheme
The team behind the redevelopment of high-profile regeneration projects including Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and London’s Battersea Power Station has become commercial partner for the biggest development opportunity in the Midlands. Areli Developments, founded by Rob Tincknell, will develop the commercial strategy for three massive sites being promoted by the East Midlands Development Company, a public-private partnership backed by a consortium of local authorities and government. Areli has brought together a professional team to support a long-term programme which centres on the development of hundreds of hectares of land around East Midlands Airport, Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station and the Toton-Chetwynd corridor. Each site is the size of London’s Olympic Park, and it’s hoped that they will collectively generate 84,000 jobs and add more than £4 billion to the output of the East Midlands economy in the decades ahead. Some of the sites sit within the boundary of the proposed East Midlands Freeport, while government has also confirmed that HS2 trains will also come into the area. Areli has a global track record for the delivery of transformational projects, and its professional team in the East Midlands will also include architects Benoy, regeneration consultant Urban Delivery and placemaking experts MurrayTwohig. Announcing the appointment, Richard Carr, Managing Director of EM DevCo, said: “Our three sites represent one of the biggest and most ambitious development opportunities in the UK’s regions, and we expect them to have an impact at macro-economic level. “Our ambitions run deep into the quality and nature of the development we’re looking to enable, and bringing on board a partner of Areli’s calibre is a mark of how high we’re aiming.” Tincknell, whose current development portfolio includes over 8m sq ft of mixed use regeneration projects, said: “Areli Developments is thrilled to be appointed as strategic commercial partner to the EM DevCo. “Our team includes some of the leading real estate strategy specialists in the UK, all of whom are extremely excited to work with the DevCo to help create a robust and compelling vision for the future of three extraordinary projects. “One of the key workstreams we’ll be commencing over the next 12 months will be to actively engage with local communities and stakeholders to hear their views and build them into the DevCo’s ambitious plans.” The DevCo has already been appointed a Design Code pilot by government, with a remit to work with partners to ensure the development of beautiful places. Its sites will include the development of a new innovation campus, major residential development, large-scale demonstrators aimed at taking net zero technologies to market-ready status, and supporting infrastructure. EM DevCo is also working in partnership with the East Midlands Freeport, which seeks to build on the area’s status as a major trade gateway. East Midlands Airport is the biggest pure airfreight airport in the UK and it sits alongside the SEGRO road-rail logistics site.
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