Derby industrial property sold
On behalf of private clients, FHP Property Consultants have sold Units 4 – 6 Downing Road, West Meadows Industrial Estate, Derby.
The property is situated on Downing Road, which is conveniently located close to Pentagon Island at the intersection of the A52 and A61.
The premises originally comprised three industrial/warehouse units which have all recently been combined and linked together providing 28,675ft2. The accommodation provides clear span space and has recently refurbished offices.
The unit has been sold to a local owner/occupier who required the space due to expansion.
Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants said: “I am pleased this transaction has completed in what has been a great result for both our client and the purchaser. The unit itself provides good quality warehouse accommodation which is perfect for storage and distribution.
“There remains good demand for freehold warehouse units in Derby and further afield due to shortage in supply. As a result, I am currently speaking with several parties that missed out on this opportunity and would be delighted to hear about any available units.”
2025 Business Predictions: Alex Bennett, Managing Director, MEC Consulting 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 Alex Bennett, Managing Director at MEC Consulting Group.
We are of the opinion 2025 will be a year of opportunity. Having negotiated a turbulent five years with Covid, the cost-of-living crisis and political instability, we now have some certainty, and the property and construction industry can collectively start to drive the economy forward.
We are expecting a big push on residential development to meet the government’s 1.5m homes target, and have already felt an increase in activity in recent months. Now with the release of the new NPPF confirming increased housing targets, unlocking grey belt land and accelerating affordable housing delivery, residential development should progress at a faster pace and on more of an open-door policy than we’ve experienced in recent years.
This activity will hopefully drive more business growth, give confidence for additional investment in people and training, and enable us to escape ‘survival mode’ that has been de rigueur for the past five years.
But of course it is wise to approach these opportunities with a degree of trepidation.
How will the industry, its people and systems cope? Especially with the small matter of geopolitical issues that cause economic uncertainty.
The private and public sector is significantly under-resourced and heavily reliant on fundamentally broken systems. Plugging the skills shortage is a huge challenge with new funding, training and policies desperately needed to achieve these ambitious targets.
From a technical perspective, the new NPPF has introduced ‘vision led’ transport and has sought to clarify how the sequential test should be applied. Both will require further interpretation, no doubt through Appeal, as we seek to narrow the parameters and this will no doubt present challenges for developers and the industry as we seek to quickly understand how these new requirements can and will be applied.
In summary, if 2025 is going to present opportunity, then we must approach this sustainably and not act in haste that we create a vacuum of ‘what’s next’? We must learn from previous mistakes and not fall into the trap of a boom and bust strategy. This applies both to our business and the industry as a whole. If we can achieve this, then I suggest 2025 has cause for cautious optimism.
Businesses thanked for stepping up to the plate for YMCA Derbyshire
Businesses working in IT, accountancy, PR and much more have been warmly thanked for stepping away from their desks to cook meals for the community at YMCA Derbyshire’s campus in Derby.
YMCA Derbyshire runs a monthly project at its London Road base, working with businesses and partner organisations who undertake to pay for and cook a two-course meal for up to 80 people.
So successful is the project that cooking slots at the YMCA are filled for months in advance with companies keen to give back to the community and provide hot meals for those who need them most.
The company providing the most meals for YMCA Derbyshire in 2024 was Derby IT company L.E.A.D. IT Services.
The company’s last voluntary day in 2024 saw team members leave their laptops and support desks for a morning to cook up beef and veggie chill plus sponge and custard for pudding.
Sophie Jepson, resource and project manager at L.E.A.D. IT Services, said: “We always enjoy cooking meals for YMCA Derbyshire – it’s a nice change from our day jobs which are obviously fairly technical. It is a brilliant charity and we’re happy to lend our support where we can.
“There are still a lot of people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and if we can help by cooking a meal for a morning, then it’s a pleasure to do so. The Community Meal is a great scheme, and we’re delighted to be involved.”
Another company which joined the project was Derby-based Vibrant Accountancy which provided a meal cooked up by learners from special educational needs organisation Transition 2.
Vibrant provided the ingredients for the meal prepared by Kristina, Seth and Maddie from Transition 2, which helps prepare Derby people with special educational needs and autism for employment.
Bev Wakefield, founder and owner of Vibrant Accountancy, said: “It was an amazing day. Vibrant’s vision is all about making an impact on our clients and our community, so we were very happy to come with the learners from Transition 2 to deliver the meal.
“It got the Vibrant team involved in the charity, but it was also about giving back and supporting the community.
“It was brilliant to see how much confidence Transition 2 had given Maddie, Seth and Kristina. This is a great organisation creating opportunities for people who perhaps didn’t think they would be available to them.
“The Vibrant team were sous-chefs on the day, the team from Transition 2 did all the cooking – we were just on hand with some chopping and peeling!”
Vibrant’s accountants and the Transition 2 team put together a two-course lunch featuring pasta and garlic bread, with lemon drizzle cake for pudding. Bev added that Vibrant Accountancy was also exploring ways of providing Transition 2 learners with further opportunities.
Simon Hancox, deputy head of service at Transition 2, said the YMCA meal was part of learners’ “bespoke pathway into employment.”
He said: “Transition 2 is committed to improving vocational outcomes for young people with SEND in Derby as part of Derby City Council’s plan for growth and building a resilient city that delivers strategies to promote inclusion in learning and employment.
“This event, and the build up to it, has helped learners to improve their functional skills, self-management, teamwork, personal and food hygiene, customer service, health and safety, stamina and work readiness, and to build aspirations for future work possibilities.”
YMCA Derbyshire runs its community meals on the last Friday of every month, in partnership with Head High mental health charity, run by Amanda Solloway.
Debs Powell at YMCA Derbyshire said: “The support we have had has been amazing. It’s so heart-warming that companies and partner organisations are willing to both pay for and send volunteers to cook a meal for people in our community.
“The meals are always so well received and it’s a great opportunity for businesses to volunteer and provide some help where it is really needed.”
Anyone who would like to take part in YMCA Derbyshire’s Community Meals can contact, debs.powell@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk
Construction supplier relocates to Nottingham industrial and logistics scheme, Power Park
A supplier of fixings and support systems to the construction sector, MIDFIX (Midland Fixings Limited) are relocating from Beeston to Oxenwood’s Power Park, Nottingham industrial and logistics scheme.
The new 101,837 sq ft warehouse and administrative headquarters is one of the six-unit development, totalling just over 426,000 sq ft of warehouse space. The new warehouse will see the complete relocation and expansion of the business from their current facilities on Lilac Grove in Beeston which is located less than a mile away.
Accent Interiors will be undertaking a substantial fit-out for MIDFIX which includes extending the office accommodation to provide an additional 7,000 sq ft.
MIDFIX chose Power Park for its new HQ and central warehouse due to location and being able to create efficiencies through bringing three buildings under one roof. The move will create a state-of-the-art logistics centre and modern office facilities with space to facilitate future growth plans.
Stewart Little, CEO of Oxenwood, said: “Power Park Nottingham is proving to be an important scheme for the area, it has delivered much needed new industrial warehouse facilities into the market, and we are very pleased to welcome MIDFIX here.
“They are a successful local business who had been looking for the right building for some time and now join our other new tenants Kast Concrete Basins and Skillnet at Power Park.”
The joint letting agents for the scheme are M1 Agency, Savills and CPP.
The agents commented: “This letting is one of the largest warehouse deals in Nottingham for many years, it highlights the strong demand for high-quality, well-connected warehousing space but also shows the sensitivity to occupiers around maintaining and growing their workforce, being close to the city centre population has been key to this.
“We have good levels of interest in the remaining units and hope to announce further lettings soon.”
Craig Straw of Innes England, who acted on behalf MIDFIX, said: “We are delighted to have secured this modern purpose built facility on behalf of MIDFIX in such close proximity to their existing base enabling a seamless transition and minimal disruption to the workforce.”
Inflation slows
UK inflation slowed in December, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), inflation came in at 2.5% in the 12 months to December, down from 2.6% in November, and lower than expectations.
Significant downward contributions to the change came from restaurants and hotels, alcohol and tobacco, and clothing.
Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, stood at 3.2% in the 12 months to December, decreasing from 3.5% in November.
Martin Sartorius, Principal Economist, CBI, said: “Inflation remained moderately above the Bank of England’s 2% target in December, reflecting the impact of ongoing price pressures such as strong wage growth. Looking ahead, we expect inflation will stay elevated this year, partly due to Autumn Budget measures contributing to higher prices.
“Persistent, above-target inflation supports our expectation that the Monetary Policy Committee will loosen policy at a gradual, quarterly pace throughout 2025. The next rate cut is still likely to come in February, which will bring some respite for businesses and households as they continue to face high borrowing costs.”
Roads Minister visits Derbyshire factory to learn of pothole repair technology
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood has visited Derbyshire – home of the worst potholes in the country, according to the RAC – to see cutting-edge technology helping councils tackle potholes.
She visited the JCB power systems plant at Foston the Minister spoke to engineers to learn about the latest innovations being used to tackle the pothole plague. She will operate JCB’s ‘pothole pro’, a machine that can fix a pothole in eight minutes, with a cost of around £30. The ‘pothole pro’ is currently used by 20 local authorities.
A £1.6bn investment in pothole repair nationally includes an additional £20 million for the East Midlands County Combined Authority, that will enable councils to fix up to 7 million more potholes.
She said: “Potholes are a clear sign of decline in our infrastructure and for too long roads like those in Derbyshire have been left in a state that endangers and costs road users.
“It’s time for change and we are investing £1.6 billion to fix up to 7 million more potholes across England this year, including over £75 million for the East Midlands Combined Authority.
“JCB’s ‘pothole pro’ is one of the many great examples of using new technology to repair potholes faster and demonstrates how companies are harnessing new technology to repair potholes faster.”
Ben Rawding, JCB’s general manager, municipalities, said: “Last month’s announcement by the Department of Transport of £1.6 billion of funding for road repairs in England during 2025 is very welcome. Our appeal to the Minister will be for this funding to be spent wisely to ensure permanent long-term repairs become the priority for local authorities making best use of value-adding, productive technology such as the JCB pothole pro.”
Rail support specialist acquired by Austrian company
Harry Needle Railroad Company – the independent provider of locomotive hire, storage and maintenance – has been acquired by the Austrian rail contractor Swietelsky for an eight-figure sum.
The deal will enable founder Harry Needle to realise his majority share in the business while continuing in his role as Managing Director, and allow Swietelsky to expand its operations in the UK with the addition of a 15-acre facility in Worksop that is one of the largest of its type in the country.
It will also provide an exit for Harry Needle’s main funder, Frontier Development Capital (FDC), which supported the acquisition of the Worksop site five years ago and the subsequent growth of the business.
Established in 1999 by former paratrooper Harry Needle, Harry Needle Railroad Company started out recovering spares from redundant rolling stock and went on to acquire a fleet of locomotives for hire. In 2019, with backing from FDC, it acquired the derelict former rail depot in Worksop and invested £8m to convert it into a complete operations centre.
The site, which has its own testing facilities, can accommodate up to 20 vehicles per week for repair, refurbishment, and maintenance. Together with its original site in Chesterfield, the company can offer storage for up to 700 railway vehicles.
Harry Needle now employs around 30 staff across the two sites and offers locomotive hire and storage services to manufacturers and operators including Alstom, Porterbrook and South Eastern. Since acquiring the Worksop site, it has grown turnover by 600%.
Swietelsky, one of Austria’s leading construction companies, is also Europe’s largest privately-owned track maintenance contractor. It currently operates UK sites in Reading, Manchester and Glasgow through its joint venture with Babcock.
Harry Needle, Managing Director at Harry Needle Railroad Company, said: “Over the past five years our business has grown to become a UK leader in rail support services. Joining forces with Swietelsky will give us the right structure and support to take it to the next level.
“FDC’s backing has been crucial to the transformation of our Worksop facility and the significant growth of the company and we thank them for their support. We look forward to working with the Swietelsky team as the business begins the next stage of its growth journey.”
FDC provided investment from its Rail Supply Growth Fund.
Jack Glonek, Investment Director at FDC, said: “Harry Needle Railroad Company was already successful but with the acquisition of the Worksop site, it began a new era that saw it become a leader in its field. It has been a privilege working with Harry and his team, supporting them with multiple investments and watching the business go from strength to strength.”
Marcus Mayers of specialist rail consultancy RASIC advised Harry Needle Railroad Company on the sale.
Central Foods makes business development manager promotion
Frozen food distributor Central Foods has promoted Mackenzie Roper to business development manager.
Mackenzie, who joined Central Foods in January 2023 as a sales executive, has also been named Salesperson of the Year at the company, which is one of the country’s leading frozen food distributors to the food service sector.
Central Foods MD Oli Sampson said: “Mackenzie is a first-class operator and has worked hard since joining Central Foods two years ago.
“His promotion to business development manager is very well deserved and we congratulate him on his new position.”
Central Foods currently sells to over 200 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers.
The company, which is based in Northamptonshire, is proud to be a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more.
Mackenzie said: “I am proud to be continuing my career with this great company and can’t thank the team enough for their continued support.
“My appointment has come at an exciting time for the business with lots to look forward to.”
Games Workshop reports best first half-year performance
Games Workshop, the Nottingham-based manufacturer of miniature wargames, has reported its best first half performance.
According to half-yearly results for the 26 week period ended 1 December 2024, revenue at the business jumped to £299.5m from £247.7m in the same period of the year prior. Pre-tax profit, meanwhile, grew to £126.8m from £95.2m.
Kevin Rountree, CEO of Games Workshop, said: “I’m delighted to report our best first half-year performance. A huge thank you to our staff, customers, trade accounts and broader stakeholders for their ongoing support.”
Games Workshop noted that it is not expecting any material impact on its financial performance for the year to May 2025 following the UK’s Autumn Budget (e.g. increases to the National Living Wage), as it already pays all UK staff, as a minimum, close to the new level. The business noted however that it may drive third party input cost increases in 2025/2026. The firm added that it is busy progressing the construction of its fourth factory at its HQ in Nottingham, which is due to be completed in the summer of 2026, while Games Workshop’s new paint factory at nearby Easter Park will be operational this financial year.The company recently concluded negotiations with Amazon for the adaption of Games Workshop’s Warhammer 40,000 universe into films and television series, together with associated merchandising rights.
2025 Business Predictions: Claire Taylor, Director, Creationz Marketing
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 Claire Taylor, Director at Creationz Marketing.
Tough trading conditions call for smarter marketing
With economic challenges predicted for 2025, many businesses may be tempted to scale back marketing budgets. However, history shows that businesses maintaining or even increasing their visibility during downturns often emerge stronger. The focus will shift to smarter, data-driven marketing strategies that maximise ROI, ensuring every campaign delivers measurable results. Companies that stay visible and connected with their audiences will be better positioned to weather the storm and seize opportunities. Clever Marketing will be the order of the day!
AI continues to change the face of Marketing
AI will continue to be a powerful tool in marketing, changing how businesses create and deliver content. However, the rise of AI-generated material will increase the need for brands to retain their human touch. Consumers will crave authentic connections, leading to a surge in storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, and personalised interactions. Successful businesses will strike a balance—leveraging AI for efficiency while ensuring their marketing remains relatable, engaging, and uniquely human.
As the top two predictions look at the Marketing industry, it is important to also look at the skills and competencies of what it takes to be a marketer in 2025.
Curiosity and adaptability will define successful marketers
With new tools, communication channels, and approaches emerging year on year, Marketers will need to be more curious than ever—embracing change, exploring innovative methods, and continually upskilling. Agile and flexible professionals will stand out, as the ability to adapt will become a core requirement. Seeking guidance through coaching and mentoring will be essential for marketers to navigate the complexities of their roles, grow their expertise, and thrive in this dynamic environment.
Small business owners invited to make a huge difference to children and young people
Entrepreneurs and small business owners are being invited to make a huge difference to children and young people across the country by joining the NSPCC’s Partners in Business initiative.
Dozens of organisations across the country have already signed up to the scheme to support the charity’s vital work through donations, one-off events or a year of fundraising, with 50 participants raising enough to fund 2,200 Childline counselling sessions in 2024.
Partners in Business offers support, guidance and fundraising inspiration to participants for up to a year, while sharing information about new and existing NSPCC campaigns and services in the region.
Nathan Shrubb, NSPCC Partners In Business manager, said participants’ activity could range from making a donation, completing a one-off fundraising activity or choosing the NSPCC as their charity of choice for the year.
He said: “Our Partners in Business have done fantastic work in the last 12 months, with fundraising events helping to support the NSPCC’s vital work with children and young people across the country.
“We also know that their support of the NSPCC can be a benefit to their brand reputation and trust amongst customers, while a recent survey also showed staff feel more proud to work for companies in a charity partnership with the NSPCC. We would love to welcome more small businesses and entrepreneurs into Partners in Business in 2025.”
Businesses which sign up receive regular details about the charity’s work in their local region, as well as fundraising advice and support from NSPCC experts who will make sure fundraising activities are fun, inclusive and successful.
Marcus Phoenix, Director of Midlands-based Candy Castle Animations Ltd, said: “Being there for young people as early as possible is the best way to ensure a bright and nurturing future for them. It is our responsibility collectively to ensure they are protected and cared for.
“We support the NSPCC in every way we can, from making direct donations to making donations instead of sending printed Christmas cards to our partners and customers. Partners in Business makes it easier to be aware of ways you can support the NSPCC and have access to everything you need to make an impact.”
Every £50 raised for the NSPCC could support parents and families for two hours, £500 could fund a Helpline practitioner give 22 hours of support to adults concerned about a child’s wellbeing, while £4,800 could recruit, train and support three new Childline volunteers to speak directly to young people in their darkest hours.
East Midlands output growth quickens to fastest for three months
Latest Regional Growth Tracker survey data from NatWest signalled a sharper upturn in business activity at East Midlands firms as 2024 came to a close.
The headline NatWest East Midlands Business Activity Index picked up to 50.7 in December, from 50.1 in November. The latest data indicated a marginal expansion in output across the region’s private sector, but one that was the steepest for three months.
That said, the rise in activity belied a faster decline in new business in December. The quicker fall in new orders led firms to cut their staffing levels sharply as backlogs of work were depleted to the greatest extent in 15 months. Cuts to part-time work and the non-replacement of voluntary leavers in a bid to lower costs were key drivers of the fall in employment, according to panellists.
Despite subdued demand conditions, firms were able to hike their selling prices at a faster pace in December in response to sharper input cost inflation. Anecdotal evidence stated that companies sought to pass through higher costs to customers. At the same time, the degree of confidence in the outlook improved to the strongest since last September.
Lisa Phillips, Regional Managing Director, Midlands and East, Commercial Mid Markets, said: “The East Midlands private sector ended 2024 on a mixed footing as, despite a sharper rise in output, new business contracted to a greater extent. Cost cutting remained a key priority as customers and businesses alike reduced their spending. As such, employment declined at the fastest pace since August 2020 amid greater evidence of spare capacity.
“On a more positive note, although input prices increased at a quicker pace, firms were able to pass-through higher costs to customers via the fastest rise in output charges since March 2024. Confidence to hike selling prices reflected greater optimism in the outlook for output, with expectations the strongest since last September.”
Performance in relation to UK
The East Midlands was one of only three monitored regions and areas of the UK to register a rise in output during December, alongside London and the North East. Moreover, the pace of activity growth seen in the region was slightly faster than the UK average.
East Midlands firms recorded a third successive monthly decline in new orders in the final month of 2024. Moreover, the pace of contraction quickened to the fastest since last June and was moderate overall. The rate of decrease was sharper than the UK average, however.
Nevertheless, companies were more upbeat in their expectations regarding output levels in the coming year in December. The degree of confidence in a rise in activity over the next 12 months was the strongest in three months and broadly in line with the long-run series average. Firms in the East Midlands were the most optimistic of the 12 UK regions and areas monitored by the survey.
December data signalled a loss of jobs across the East Midlands private sector, as has been the case on a monthly basis since July 2023. The pace of decline in employment quickened substantially, and was the steepest since August 2020. Moreover, the rate of job shedding was sharper than the UK average, with only Wales, the South East and West Midlands registering greater decreases in staffing levels.
Meanwhile, spare capacity reportedly burgeoned as backlogs of work contracted at the quickest pace since September 2023. Reduced new order inflows enabled firms to process outstanding business, according to anecdotal evidence.
East Midlands businesses registered a faster rise in input prices during the final month of 2024, with cost burdens increasing at the sharpest pace since last July. The rate of cost inflation was slightly softer than the UK average, however.
Despite weak demand conditions, firms were able to raise their selling prices at a steeper pace in December. The rate of inflation was the quickest since last March and was slightly faster than the UK average.
Daltons Wadkin appoints new specialist to drive Fiber Laser growth
Daltons Wadkin, a Nottingham-based multi-material machine solution supplier, has expanded its team by hiring a specialist to lead the company’s fiber laser and sheet metal offering.
Adrian Wright has joined the family-run business as a Fiber Laser Sales Manager, bringing over three decades of experience in the fiber laser and sheet metal market, working for some of the most prestigious names in the industry.
He will now lead on managing Daltons Wadkin’s exclusive partnership with CNC and fiber laser producers, Kimla, to grow the fiber laser installations across the UK and Ireland.
In 2022, Daltons Wadkin announced that it had become the sole distributor for Kimla’s range of CNC routers and fiber laser cutters, following a 15-year partnership.
Managing Director Alex Dalton said: “We’re excited to welcome Adrian to lead our fiber laser division. His deep expertise in the sheet metal arena and fiber laser sector is exactly what we need to propel our growth.
“Kimla’s fiber laser technology is truly cutting-edge, supported by our robust network of trained engineers across the UK and Ireland. Adrian’s appointment is the final piece, allowing us to bring these components together and advance confidently in the market with a dedicated expert.”
Adrian Wright said: “I can’t wait to join the team at Dalton Wadkin, and especially the fantastic opportunity to show customers and companies alike the Kimla range of products, including the incredible Kimla Fiber Lasers machines.
“Kimla and Dalton Wadkin have built up a tremendously close working relationship over the past 15 years, and I intend to fully utilise and embrace introducing these machines to customers.
“Key to our success will be showcasing our machines to their fullest potential via live demonstrations in either Nottingham or Poland. Kimla are not just machine builders but are true innovators invested in developing the fiber laser machine from the ground up.
“Designing and manufacturing their own linear motors, coupled with their unique machine design, are just two examples of what makes a Kimla Fiber machine cut materials faster with unrivalled part quality.”
Fire-damaged former cinema to go under the hammer as redevelopment opportunity
The former Savoy Cinema in Spalding, which, with a 1,500-person seating capacity, was Lincolnshire’s largest cinema when it opened in 1937, is to go up for auction this month with a guide price of £250,000-£270,000.
Converted to a bingo hall after audiences declined in the 1970s, the imposing building was damaged extensively by a fire in 2021 and has since remained disused.
Now the 15,000 sq ft cinema, which stands on a 0.7 acre site, is being offered for sale by joint auctioneers SDL Property Auctions and Eddisons Peterborough.
The auctioneers believe the building would be suitable for redevelopment and South Holland District Council has confirmed it would support proposals for a mixed-use commercial and residential scheme on the site. The Westlode Street property is close to the town centre, within Spalding’s conservation area.
Andrew Parker, auctioneer and partner at SDL Property Auctions, said: “This was once a splendid building that was a real asset to the town of Spalding and it has been disused and unloved for over three years since the fire.
“It would be great to see an imaginative mixed-use scheme bring the site back to life, perhaps retaining the original 1930s art-deco façade. Needless to say, the council’s support for a redevelopment scheme makes this a fantastic investment opportunity.”
Clegg Construction starts work on £8.1m Derbyshire school project
Contractor Clegg Construction has begun work to deliver a new primary school.
Drakelow Primary School will be part of a 2,200-home residential estate currently under construction by Countryside Partnerships on the former Drakelow power station site.
The 420-pupil primary school, being built on Marley Way, has been designed to be flexible in use and meet a range of requirements. Both the indoor and outdoor areas will maximise the learning experience, with classrooms flowing onto outdoor teaching spaces to allow for integration of inside and outside teaching, linking to the main play area.
New sports facilities, including a 3G pitch, will be included, as well as a habitat area to provide forest school experiences.
The scheme will also feature a 26-place nursery and a 45-space staff car park.
The building’s heating capacity will be met by externally mounted air source heat pumps and the school will benefit from underfloor heating fed from a low-temperature hot water system from the central heat pump plant.
Drakelow Primary School, designed by multi-disciplinary consultants ONE Creative environments, is due for completion by the end of 2025.
Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “We are very pleased to have started on site to deliver this new primary school in South Derbyshire which will serve the community currently being developed on the site of the former Drakelow Power Station.
“Drakelow Primary School is a welcome addition to our strong portfolio of design and build schemes delivered across the education sector, and we are delighted to be part of the team appointed to create this important addition to the local community.”
During the development of Drakelow Primary School, the project will be registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and follow the CCS Code of Practice (Care for the Environment, Protect the Workforce, Respect the Community). Clegg Construction will also identify opportunities to engage with and enhance the local community and environment throughout its time on site.
Michael Moore, operations director at Countryside Partnerships, said: “Having worked together to develop the reserved matters application for Drakelow Primary School, we are pleased to now appoint Clegg Construction for the delivery phase of this exciting project.
“The new building will be a valuable addition to the Drakelow development, providing a modern, sustainable and attractive environment in which students can learn and thrive.”
Becki Smith, Associate Director – architect and education lead at ONE Creative environments (ONE), said: “We are delighted that work has started on site for the new Drakelow Primary School.
“Working closely with the Academy Trust, South Derbyshire District Council, Clegg Construction and Countryside Partnerships, we have designed the school to maximise the potential of the indoor and outdoor spaces to support a range of teaching opportunities, as well as support the community.
“Flexibility has been built into the design to meet the school’s requirements now and in the future to provide the best possible learning experiences.”
Nottinghamshire-based solicitors firm acquired
Smalleys Solicitors, based in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, will now be able to offer more legal services to businesses and individuals after being acquired by Coventry-based Askews Legal LLP, along with Cocks Lloyd Solicitors in Nuneaton, and John Mohamed & Co in Bedworth.
Key to the acquisitions is the desire to maintain the identities of the local businesses, which each have long-standing histories in their towns, while helping them to expand their offer to their communities. This will include modernising processes and aiming for further growth.
In each case, the existing partners were retiring and wanted their practices to be taken on by someone who would protect the brand and reputation they have spent years developing. All staff and the physical office locations have been retained and retiring partners are assisting with the transitions.
Smalleys Solicitors has over 20 members of staff, specialising in various aspects of law including conveyancing, wills and trusts, and family law. As well as the existing services, Smalleys’ clients will now also be able to access the additional specialisms offered across the wider Askews group.
Askews Legal LLP is a full service law firm, taking care of legal matters across criminal law, civil litigation, commercial property, public family law, conveyancing, wills, estates and trust, and all aspects of corporate and employment law.
The size of the business has doubled as result of the investment, both in terms of revenue and number of employees, which has increased from 60 to 120.
Practice manager, Pritpal Chahal, said: “We have always had a vision of growth, but we wanted to spend time developing a good solid base from which to achieve that, while at the same time setting ourselves apart as a modern law firm, flexible to the needs of today’s clients and employees.
“We felt the time was right to accelerate our plans for growth and these acquisitions are a massive step forward. We put a lot of time and effort into finding the right businesses to bring into the Askews group, and equally, they had to choose us too.
“The partners at Smalleys, Cocks Lloyd and John Mohamed & Co have all put their heart and soul into these businesses over many years and they didn’t want them to be swallowed up by a big regional business. It was important to them to see their names and reputation continue because they have built up so much respect in their communities, and we are also keen to see that continue.
“The acquisitions allow us to expand the Askews offering into new locations, while bringing more legal services to the Nottingham, Nuneaton and Bedworth areas.”
Smalleys retiring partner, Deanne Taylor, said: “Smalleys has had a presence in Arnold for around 30 years and we’ve built up an excellent reputation in that time. I’m delighted that the firm’s future has been secured by becoming part of a wider group that shares our values, ethics and commitment to providing the best possible service to each individual client.”
Rushton Hickman completes investment sale of Burton property
Rushton Hickman has completed the investment sale of 23 Station Street in Burton upon Trent. This was a rare opportunity with a strong tenant in situ.
The property is in a pedestrianised location of Burton, benefitting from high footfall. The area is well populated with nearby occupiers including Costa Coffee, Isabel’s, Coral and Domino’s.
Currently, the space is occupied by Gizili, a Turkish Street Food restaurant that has revitalised the space.
Reflecting on the sales process, former owner of the property, Mrs Jones said: “When we decided to sell the property, we were very keen to minimise any disruption to our commercial tenant in the property, Gizili Turkish Street Food.
“The Rushton Hickman team did a great job of marketing the property to create interest – and they then worked very effectively with our tenant to best schedule all the viewings. We were able to make a quick decision on the sale thanks to the enthusiasm and professionalism of the Rushton Hickman team.”
Taylor Millington, who facilitated the deal, added: “This successful transaction is a win-win for our client, the purchaser and the tenant. Each party achieved positive outcomes, which is always our goal.”
Rescued manufacturer falls back into administration
Administrators have been appointed to five entities of the Fablink Group: Wharfside Industrial Ltd, Fablink (Evenwood) Ltd, Fablink (Luton) Ltd, Fablink (Northampton) Ltd and Fablink (Wolverhampton) Ltd.
The group, employing 427 people, specialises in the manufacture of metal pressings, fuel and hydraulic tanks, operator cab assemblies and other complex structures.
It was acquired out of administration in September 2024, but since then it has lost the business of certain key customers.
The group’s management team has worked to find a viable solution to rescue the business, however, the significant loss of business has severely impacted the group’s future viability. As a result, the directors have determined that they have no option other than to place the group into administration.
On 7 January 2025, Dan Hurd and Lucy Winterborne of EY were appointed as joint administrators.
Given the lack of ongoing business, the majority of employees have been made redundant whilst the joint administrators continue to explore a sale of certain parts of the group and its assets. All employees impacted are being offered support and advice.
Aggregate Industries wins £20m contract for Leicester road maintenance
Leicester-based Aggregate Industries has won a £20m two-year contract to resurface and maintain the city’s roads.
The contract builds on a four-year contract with Leicester City Council, during which it delivered major road improvements and maintenance schemes across the city.
The business has previously held the contract for Leicester City Council’s carriageways between 2020 and 2024, and this latest contract will run for a period of a further two years, with an option of two extensions of 12 months each.
Kevin Murgatroyd, MD for Aggregate Industries’ Contracting division said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this ongoing project in our hometown of Leicester. Securing this contract is a great win for our team and showcases our proven track record in working for Leicester City Council.”
Martin Fletcher, City Highways Director, said: “After a robust procurement process, Leicestershire based supplier Aggregate Industries UK has secured a two-year contract with the city council. The company has a strong history of delivering road maintenance schemes in the region, including Leicester. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to enhance the safety, quality and longevity of Leicester’s roads for both residents and visitors alike.”
Sperry Rail works with University of Derby to bring AI into railway maintenance
An three-year project using artificial intelligence to revolutionising the railway industry has been launched by the University of Derby and Sperry Rail.
Funded by Innovate UK, the Knowledge Transfer Partnership will investigate the application of AI to automatically detect cracks in railway lines.
Dr Alaa AlZoubi, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science at the University of Derby, is leading the project. He said: “Sperry Rail are world-leaders in rail health solutions. Our partnership to develop advanced AI for railway surface inspections highlights our commitment to innovation and strong academic-industry collaboration.
“This project offers a unique opportunity to integrate novel AI technologies with a deep understanding of railway inspection needs, driving greater efficiency and intelligence in the industry.
“While existing inspection methods are effective, they often require significant time and labour resources. By integrating cutting-edge AI models with railway inspection protocols, this initiative will create automated systems capable of data analysis and predictive maintenance, reducing false detections, minimising service disruptions, and extending the lifespan of railway assets.
“It also provides a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and showcases the transformative potential of academia-industry collaboration in developing solutions that advance technology and its real-world applications.”
Bobby Gilbert, Senior Director Digital Transformation at Sperry Rail, said: “I am excited to be working in partnership with the University of Derby.
“By combining our expertise in non-destructive testing for rail flaws with advanced AI developments and the knowledge available through the University, we are well-positioned to accelerate our efforts in improving rail flaw detection. I am impressed by the calibre of the University research team, who significantly enhance the strength of our data science team.
“I believe we will see our existing AI technology greatly enhanced by developing new AI in the area of data fusion.”
