Agents appointed for marketing of £6.3m hub

Steve Fisher
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Agents appointed for marketing of £6.3m hub

Having already successfully marketed the majority of development plots on Phase I of the FEZ, Pygott & Crone have been appointed as the commercial agent for The Hub building.

Their success on Phase I has resulted in 7 out of 11 plots under offer within the first year of being on the market. Cllr Colin Davie, Executive Councillor for economy and place at the County Council, says: “With excellent progress being made on the building, I’m delighted that Pygott & Crone will soon be able to market the office space within the Hub. “They have a great understanding of the ethos of the FEZ and what it will bring to Lincolnshire and our residents. “The Hub building will be a great centre for smaller businesses to collaborate and benefit from brand new facilities, research and training opportunities.” Sarah Louise Fairburn, Deputy Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Chair of the LEP’s Food Board, adds: “The Hub is an exciting development at the FEZ that will provide the connections and support for SME businesses in the agri-food tech sector to grow, innovate and collaborate. “The LEP is pleased to have provided the £6.3m to enable construction of this extremely important building for knowledge transfer and business support within the UK food Valley.” Tim Downing, Director at Pygott & Crone, said: “Our commercial team are really looking forward to marketing this innovative development which offers much needed space for food related business in the region. “The hub will enable business in the food sector to collaborate with other like minded companies across the whole enterprise zone and will help cement Lincolnshire’s reputation as the centre of the UK food valley. “Our UK wide network of offices have already received many positive enquiries.” The Hub brand has also been revealed, designed by Bourne-based Green Trumpet, to sit alongside the existing branding of the FEZ.

Half of East Midlands businesses have an equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, new research finds

Tess Egginton
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Half of East Midlands businesses have an equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, new research finds
Better workplaces, improved decision-making and increased innovation are among the benefits cited by East Midlands businesses that have an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy, according to a new report. Research by East Midlands Chamber, in partnership with housing association emh group, found that almost half (48%) of businesses in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire have a dedicated policy in place. More than two-thirds (68%) consider EDI can contribute, at least to some degree, in the success of their business plans over the coming 12 months – while it was attributed as an important part of leadership strategy by 55% of firms. When asked to give a score between one and 10 to how important consideration of EDI would be to the success of their organisation, the average score was 5.6 – suggesting that while it may not be integral to firms overall, it’s also not an insignificant consideration within business activity in the East Midlands. The research will be presented at the Chamber’s Celebration of Culture and Communities event, which will be held tonight (24 March) at Leicester Tigers’ Mattioli Woods Welford Road stadium – showcasing the region’s diverse mix of cultural backgrounds via music, dance and food. East Midlands Chamber director of resources, Lucy Robinson, who is the business representation organisation’s diversity and inclusion champion, said: “It’s clear from these findings that equality, diversion and inclusion is increasingly becoming less of a ‘nice-to-have’ for organisations and more business-critical. “The majority of East Midlands businesses recognise an important role for EDI within their planning and activity, and there’s clearly a need for further support in helping those that identify its value but are yet to have policies in place. “A core of roughly one in 10 feel it doesn’t play any role in their success. When examining this figure further, these businesses are more likely to be micro in size, with a very small bias towards the manufacturing industry. “Given that those actively engaged in the EDI agenda have illustrated some very real commercial benefits – ranging from a better workplace culture, recruitment and retention, through to supporting innovation and a diversity of thought in decision-making – we should now be looking at how to better showcase good examples of business success in this agenda. “We will also explore further work that may quantify how progressive approaches to EDI can result in productivity gains – which is high on the business priority list as they seek to grow once more following the pandemic.” Key findings in equality, diversity and inclusion research The Chamber and emh group surveyed 341 East Midlands companies in November for the study – the first of its kind in the region – which found: · 48% of businesses have a specific EDI-related policy, but four in 10 (40%) haven’t and 12% were unsure whether they did · 68% felt having specific approaches to EDI would play a role in supporting the achievement of business plans for the next 12 months, with 26% believing this role would be significant and 11% saying it would play no part · 55% of respondents felt EDI formed an important part of their leadership discussions and strategy, with 14% saying this was to a great extent and 12% believing there was no EDI focus at all · When asked about the benefits of having an engaged approach to EDI, 61% said it can help create an inclusive working environment, 54% believed a “diversity of thought” could lead to better decision-making, 45% felt it supported innovation and creativity, 42% claimed it supported staff retention and recruitment, and 41% identified how it helped to better represent customers and clients – with just 17% seeing no real benefits The research also highlighted some particular sectoral gaps across the East Midlands economy when it comes to embracing the EDI agenda. While 48% of all businesses have a specific policy in place, the proportion fell to 43% for manufacturers – although those unsure increased to 20%, suggesting slightly less understanding or communication of EDI activity within these businesses.
Chan Kataria OBE
Chan Kataria OBE, Chief Executive at emh group, said: “This research builds on our joint commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within communities and organisations across the region. The findings provide a solid platform for exploring opportunities to enhance performance on EDI. “We see this as a starting point for showcasing engagement on EDI issues and exploring some of the barriers within specific sectors and small businesses. We look forward to further discussions with Chamber members to consider and share good practice.” How businesses can increase engagement with the EDI agenda A set of recommendations were made as part of a discussion paper published by the Chamber and emh group, titled Understanding attitudes and approaches to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the East Midlands: · Further support on developing EDI-specific polices can be offered to those businesses that view these as having a value but are yet to have policies in place · Businesses that are active in this space should be encouraged to demonstrate their approaches and showcase best practice · There is an opportunity for further work to quantify how progressive approaches to EDI can support a business’s success and productivity gains

£12m Extra Care facility opens in Lincolnshire

Steve Fisher
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£12m Extra Care facility opens in Lincolnshire

Lincoln’s De Wint Court Extra Care facility in Boultham Moor has been officially opened, with residents set to move in next month.

The £12 million, 50 one-bed and 20 two-bed apartment extra care facility is the first such scheme to open its doors. Jointly funded between Lincolnshire County Council, City of Lincoln Council and Homes England, the facility has care provision available, non-resident management and support staff, a wellbeing suite, changing places facility, restaurant and salon. Councillor Wendy Bowkett, Lincolnshire County Council’s executive member for Adult Care and Public Health, said: “This type of accommodation will be vital going forward with the forecast increase of older aged people and vulnerable adults in the county. “It will provide quality accommodation for these groups who want to remain in their own homes but also gives them the option of on-site care.” Residents can enjoy the benefits of renting a home, free from the worries of maintenance or gardening, along with like-minded over 55s. With access to care and support on-site 24 hours a day, together with additional communal facilities, De Wint Court offers the perfect place to make your home.
Cllr Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Quality Housing at City of Lincoln Council said: “These new apartments will enable residents to maintain independence in their own homes as their needs change with care providers arranged by the county council. “De Wint will play a vital part in our commitment to provide quality homes, to meet the diverse housing need within the city, and I welcome our new residents to the development.” Stuart Leslie, Divisional Director at Esh Construction added: “We are proud to have delivered this fantastic new extra care facility in Lincoln, providing high quality and much-needed new homes to enable people to live independently with onsite care and support. “Throughout this scheme we worked hard to maximise the social and economic benefits for the local area. Through our commitment to employing locally, more than 70 operatives were Lincolnshire residents, and 24 new jobs were created for local people who were previously unemployed.” Christine Seaton Senior Manager – Affordable Housing Growth at Homes England said: “This is a high-quality development of apartments for older people that will support independent living and contribute to their wellbeing and the wider community. I am pleased to see these homes completed and ready for new residents. “Homes England recognises and supports homes that make a meaningful contribution to people’s lives and their community. We are pleased to work in partnership with the City of Lincoln and Lincolnshire County Council to make these homes happen.” The county council is investing £12m to support the development of Extra Care Housing for older people and Community Supported Living options for adults with a disability. Work is due to start on a Welton scheme in October in partnership with LACE Housing. Another scheme at the Hoplands site in Sleaford will begin next year, in partnership with North Kesteven District Council. These schemes will provide a fantastic opportunity for residents to remain in a home of their own, connected to their local community, where they can be supported and encouraged to live meaningful and independent lives.
 

£21m full fibre rollout sparks Lincoln jobs boost as contractor appointed

Tess Egginton
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£21m full fibre rollout sparks Lincoln jobs boost as contractor appointed

CityFibre, the independent full fibre platform, has awarded a £21m contract to Trust Utility Management Ltd. to deliver its network rollout in Lincoln, a project which has sparked the creation of more than 80 local jobs.

Lincoln has been chosen as one of the latest cities to benefit from CityFibre’s £4bn Gigabit City Investment Programme, which will bring next generation, gigabit-speed broadband to nearly every home and business in the city, and to up to 8 million premises nationwide.

The latest milestone has incited a recruitment drive with new workers needed to support throughout the build process.

Works commenced in Lincoln in March and real progress is already being made. The rollout is progressing into new areas with construction underway in Abbey Ward while work in areas such as Glebe Ward is set to start in the near future. Once the city-wide rollout reaches completion in 2024, almost every home and business locally will have access to full fibre services from a choice of internet service providers.

Neal Wright, city manager for Lincoln, said: “CityFibre is investing £21m in a full fibre roll out which will benefit residents and businesses across the city with broadband of up to 900mb. In Trust Utility Management Ltd, we have found a partner that recognises the importance of this project, knows what is needed to deliver for the people of Lincoln and can grow with us as we move into new areas of the city.

“In addition to future-proofing Lincoln’s digital capabilities, this project is providing a welcome boost to the jobs market. It has sparked the creation of 83 new roles, with local talent needed to help us carry out this important project.”

Liam Coyne, commercial director, Trust Utility Management Ltd., said: “We are pleased to have been appointed by CityFibre to construct full fibre networks in Lincoln and support its wider plans of transforming the digital infrastructure of cities and towns across the UK.

“We are certain that with our vast utility contract management experience and the high calibre team that we are building, this project will prove to be a success for Trust Utility Management Ltd. and our client, CityFibre.”

In Lincoln, the team is using a range of construction methods while working in close partnership with Lincoln City and the County Council and local communities to deliver a fast rollout while managing potential disruption.

Leicester pension specialist acquires Dorset-based firm

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Leicester pension specialist acquires Dorset-based firm
Leicester-based company, Westerby Trustee Services Limited, a specialist self-invested personal pension provider for individuals and businesses, has acquired Corporate & Professional Pensions (CPPL).
 
The completion of the deal came about after Weymouth-based CPPL entered administration earlier this year. The acquisition means that all CPPL staff will transfer to Westerby, marking a new era of growth for the firm, which is based in Leicester city centre.
 
Commenting as the acquisition was announced, Westerby Group Managing Director Steve Harvey said: “We are delighted to announce our acquisition of CPPL. CPPL has great synergy with Westerby as it provides a high level of service to its customers in the specialist area of Self Invested Personal Pensions (SIPP) and Small Self Administered Schemes (SSAS). So, we are very much looking forward to this exciting new chapter as CPPL becomes part of the Westerby brand.”
 
The retention of CPPL’s Weymouth office and staff will provide a continuity of service whilst the two businesses are integrated.
 
“We would like to extend a warm welcome to all of the CPPL clients and professional connections and offer reassurance that the transition process will be smooth with no disruption to the service they are accustomed to receiving,” adds Steve Harvey. “Not only that, we look forward to CPPL’s staff and clients joining us as we will all benefit from their integration into the Westerby brand.”
 
Westerby Group chairman Les McLintic added: “As a company, Westerby has been growing organically for over 30 years. This acquisition will not only enhance our growth strategy, but it will also contribute to our long-term future strength in the industry.”

Chesterfield chosen as new home for manufacturer

Tess Egginton
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Chesterfield chosen as new home for manufacturer

A manufacturer of timber holiday lodges and buildings, Pinelog Ltd, is set to relocate its production facility from Bakewell to Chesterfield and create 30 new jobs.

Nick Grayson, chairman of Pinelog Group, a family-owned business which also owns Landal Darwin Forest and Landal Sandybrook Holiday Parks and employs approximately 240 people, made the announcement at the annual Celebrate Chesterfield event held on Wednesday 23 March at the Winding Wheel.

The move to Chesterfield marks the end of Pinelog’s 10-year ambition to modernise their premises. The company will make the move from Bakewell, where it has been based since 1974, to its new premises on Sheepbridge Works in May later this year.

The new 36,000 sq ft industrial unit, formerly occupied by Vesuvius, will enable the company to bring its production process under one roof. The site also offers a central location, excellent road links and access to a skilled local labour force and supply chain network.

In addition to complete holiday lodges, components for the construction of timber Glulam framed commercial buildings designed and built by Pinelog, will also be manufactured at the new site.

Mr Grayson said: “Our refusal to compromise on our requirements for a new facility has meant it has been a long process, but it has paid off. All our requirements have been met at Chesterfield.

“The move to our new facility in Sheepbridge marks a new chapter in Pinelog’s story; one where we can modernise, invest in new technology and further improve the business to capitalise on the staycation boom and growth in sustainable construction.”

As part of the company’s growth plans, Pinelog will develop partnerships with local skills providers, including Chesterfield College.

He added: “A number of our staff live in Chesterfield, as do I, so I know there is a good local labour pool we can draw on immediately to increase production capacity in the business. We have also got to look to our future workforce, so we will be investing in apprenticeships and skills and training through Chesterfield College.”

Mr Grayson’s announcement was welcomed by delegates at the business event, which was organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with The University of Derby and sponsored by CT and Markham Vale.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, welcomed Pinelog Ltd to Chesterfield saying: “The investment by Pinelog in the town is testament to Chesterfield’s strong offering for manufacturing businesses. We not only have excellent road and transport links, but we also have the premises, people and skills and good local supplier network.

“Our economic development team have worked closely with Pinelog to help support their move into the town. I am delighted that Chesterfield has been selected by Pinelog as the location to take the business to the next level and we look forward to continuing to work closely with them as they settle into their new business base here in Chesterfield.”

Dominic Stevens, manager of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Despite the challenges the pandemic has thrown at the town, Chesterfield has kept moving and the announcement by Pinelog Group at the conference was testament to that. We’re delighted that Pinelog chose Celebrate Chesterfield as the event to share its relocation news.”

PR agency teams up with charity to promote UK’s first live mental health event of its kind

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PR agency teams up with charity to promote UK’s first live mental health event of its kind

Nottingham-based digital PR company, Jennie Holland PR, is working with Birmingham-based charitable organisation Be;Live, in the build up to its first-of-its-kind, live mental health event, taking place in Birmingham next weekend (2 April). 

Jennie Holland PR, which has a wealth of experience in the not-for-profit sector, has been appointed to provide digital PR services on a pro-bono basis for Be;Live, to build awareness and maximise ticket sales for the upcoming event.  

Be;Live was founded by James Crystal, who began the organisation after suffering abuse as a teenager which manifested into several years of substance misuse and criminal activity, eventually leading to a prison sentence and a diagnosis of PTSD and depression.

Now aged 28 and five years sober, James’ and the event’s aims are simple; to educate, inspire and empower people around the topic of mental health and ultimately contribute to reducing the UK’s stark mental health statistics.

Be;Live brings together not only professionals and specialists but also those with lived experiences, who have survived serious adversity, to share their stories, support and advice in order to change the way we all see mental health, providing tools for attendees to take the first steps in creating positive mental health.

Taking place at Gas Street Central in Birmingham on Saturday 2 April 2022, the event – which can be attended in person or virtually – will feature a range of guest speakers, including former Sky Sports presenter Simon Thomas and ex-premier league footballer Clarke Carlilse among many others, who will be sharing their own personal stories around mental health.

Jennie Holland PR is providing publicity services to Be;Live by securing print, online and broadcast media coverage for the event as well as influencer marketing services.

Georgina Mackintosh, senior PR manager at Jennie Holland PR, said: “We are honoured to be working with Be;Live – James is a hugely inspiring and humble individual who, after going through traumatic events and facing mental health struggles of his own, is now striving to help others and let them know that no one has to go through hardship alone.

“As a Midlands-based digital PR team, we are proud to be able to offer our expertise to help promote this unique and important event – which is open to everyone and free for students.

“Be;Live is an event unlike anything the UK has seen before and it will make a real impact on people’s lives, both those who want to improve their own mental wellbeing but also those who simply want to have a better understanding of mental health to support friends and family. We look forward to attending this year and for years to come.”

James Crystal, founder and Managing Director of Be;Live, said: “We’re overwhelmed with the amount of support we’ve had from businesses who are extending the work from our small team here at Be;Live.

“The team at Jennie Holland PR have delivered so much more than we could have hoped including an interview with Global and several PR pieces in press to help drive awareness of our event. It goes without saying, it’s the people behind these supportive brands who have understood how important an event like Be;Live is and we honestly felt Jennie and her team were just as passionate about our cause as we are. We’re eternally grateful for all of their support.”

Ticket sales and brand sponsorship of the event will raise funds for independent mental health charities who provide free mental health services on the front line. In person event tickets start from less than £23, and virtual event tickets costs just over £10. Further information about the event can be found at www.belive.org.uk.

Finch Consulting lands asset management specialist in recruitment drive

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Finch Consulting lands asset management specialist in recruitment drive
Leicestershire-based health and safety engineering risk management experts, Finch Consulting, have appointed Chartered Mechanical Engineer Paul Wood as a senior consultant. With over 15 years’ experience in mechanical engineering, Paul will be joining Finch from his most recent role as an engineering manager of asset management with the Peel Ports Group. In his new role, Paul will be helping the business develop and roll out a range of asset management focused services to support the existing portfolio of business offerings. Paul has a wide range of knowledge and experience in varied industries, including manufacturing, heavy engineering and maritime environments. Paul said: “Finch stood out as a forward thinking, team-focused company who aim to be the best in their field and want to help the various industries they work with to, not only make them safer, but help them achieve their business objectives.” At the beginning of the year, Finch also recruited Rachael Robinson into the nucleus of the business, the Finch Support Team. Her role is to provide support for the consultants in the delivery of projects. Dom Barraclough, Managing Director at Finch, said: “We are very pleased that Paul and Rachael have decided to become Finch’s. Paul’s asset management experience is significant in our efforts at expanding our offering to our clients. Rachael will be a massive help in supporting the consultants with their workload.”

Timms Solicitors announce new partner

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Timms Solicitors announce new partner
A senior family lawyer has become a partner with Timms Solicitors, which has offices in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, Burton-upon-Trent, Swadlincote and Ashby. Dee Khunkhuna specialises in childcare law and advocacy and has been with Timms for seven years. She is a member of the Law Society Children Panel and Advanced Family Law Panel and deals with complex children matters and other areas of family law. She joins the existing partners – Fiona Moffat, Jo Robinson and Lisa Collett. Managing partner Fiona Moffat said: “We are delighted to welcome Dee to the partnership. She is a highly skilled and experienced solicitor who is a fearless advocate and well respected across the region for her expertise in this complex area of Family Law. “I am particularly delighted that Dee has joined the partnership having successfully completed our innovation Pathway Programme which, combined with her personal and professional skills, has helped to prepare her for this senior position with the firm.” Dee continued: “I am honoured to be joining the partnership and to play a greater role in the firm’s ambitions to do new and great things.”

Chesterfield data science services firm acquired

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Chesterfield data science services firm acquired
TPXimpact, the tech-enabled services company focused on digital transformation, has acquired Chesterfield-based Peak Indicators, a data science services and analytics consultancy. Peak Indicators work with the UK Public and Commercial sectors to provide deep technical skills in data engineering, business analytics, data science and artificial intelligence. Customers include Devon County Council, HSBC, Northern Power Grid, North East Lincolnshire Council and John Lewis, alongside a number of other commercial sector companies. Andy Ball and Antony Heljula, founders of Peak Indicators Ltd, said: “From the inception of Peak Indicators, we have strived to create a company that is committed to our people, our customers and our community. These core values align with those of TPXimpact and we are excited to join them in using our collective skills to continue improving the world around us. “We are excited to join another purpose-led business in the next stage of our growth journey. As part of the TPXimpact team, we look forward to continuing to deliver impactful change.” The news comes as TPXimpact also acquires Stirling-based Swirrl, a cloud-based open data consultancy with a focus on data integration and dissemination in public sector organisations. Neal Gandhi, CEO, TPXimpact, said: “I am delighted to welcome the Swirrl and Peak Indicators’ teams to TPXimpact. With a comprehensive and specialist range of data capabilities now in place, these acquisitions represent another key strategic step forward for TPX in our mission to take on the multitude of complex challenges facing the public and commercial sectors and deliver sustainable digital change. “More than ever, we are now confident in our ability to bid for and win larger, more lucrative contracts with our enhanced service offering.”

Landowner pulls out from proposed Garden Village development

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Landowner pulls out from proposed Garden Village development
Bassetlaw District Council is delaying the submission of its draft local plan until June to allow for a final round of targeted consultation after one of the two landowners unexpectedly withdrew their site from the proposed Garden Village development. While this means the Council’s vision for a sustainable Garden Village cannot move forward at this stage, there will be no increase in the housing numbers for any other part of the District. This is because the Garden Village was to be self-sustainable and balanced its housing numbers with its employment land. Subject to approval by Cabinet, the next step is for the Council to undertake an Addendum Consultation, ahead of submitting the plan to the Independent Planning Inspectorate. Each time the draft local plan is amended, the council are required to undertake a period of consultation. The consultation will focus on the parts of the draft local plan relevant to the Garden Village.
  • There will be no increase in housing numbers in any other part of the District.
  • The Addendum Consultation will run for six weeks between April and June.
  • The Government require all Councils to have an up to date adopted local plan by December 2023, with repercussions if they do not meet the deadline.
  • The draft local plan would deliver significant infrastructure improvements across the District, including: new schools, new roads, cycle paths, children’s play areas, GP surgery improvements, bus routes, flood management scheme, improvements to Bassetlaw Hospital and more.
Cllr Jo White, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “It is extremely disappointing that one of the Landowners has pulled their site from the Garden Village at this late stage. Having a landowner of a key site pull out at this stage of a Local Plan is so unusual we can’t find an example of it happening elsewhere. “We are required by Government to complete this Local Plan by 2023 and work will continue to take the draft local plan forward as it will deliver significant infrastructure improvements across Bassetlaw. Residents have told us that they want to see investment in new schools, improved GP surgeries, new roads and cycle paths, new bus routes, new play areas and sports pitches. A local plan will deliver on these priorities.” Some of the key infrastructure headlines to be delivered through the local plan include: Retford
  • New cycling infrastructure in Ordsall and Hallcroft
  • Improvements to cycleways
  • Bus service from Ordsall to town centre/rail station
  • Improvements to bus stops
  • Improvements to Grove Road level crossing
  • Extensions to public rights of way in Ordsall, north and east Retford
  • Improvements to A620 Babworth Road / B6420 Mansfield Road / A620 Straight Mile / Sutton Lane; and Ordsall Road/A620 Babworth Road; and London Road / Whinney Moor Lane / Bracken Lane; and London Road / Whitehouses Road
  • New country park
  • 5.5ha of new open space
  • New children’s play areas
  • New allotments
  • Community garden
  • 6610 new trees
  • Improvements to local open space
  • New sports pitches
  • Improvements to Retford Golf Club
  • New primary school
  • Funding to deliver a primary school
  • Apprenticeship/graduate level training for residents in construction and new businesses
  • New health hub with space for GP branch surgery & community health care facilities
  • GP surgery improvements
  • 328 affordable homes
  • 1332 accessible homes
  • Extra care housing
  • 45 wheelchair accessible homes
Tuxford 
  • 18 affordable homes
  • 75 accessible homes
  • Funding to improve primary and secondary schools
  • GP surgery improvements
  • Improvements to local open space
  • 375 trees
  • Improvements to bus stops
  • Improvements to public rights of way
  • Improvements to Long Lane
Worksop
  • New distributor road & cycle track between Carlton Road and Blyth Road
  • New cycle track along the A57 between Manton Wood & Apleyhead
  • Bus service from north Worksop to town centre/rail station
  • Bus service from Apleyhead to town centre
  • Improvements to bus stops
  • Extensions to public rights of way in north Worksop
  • Improvements to cycleways
  • Improvements to Blyth Road/Farmers Branch and Blyth Road/Kilton Hill
  • Improvements to the junctions along the A57
  • 9.1ha of new open space
  • New children’s play areas
  • New allotments
  • 6675 new trees
  • Improvements to Clumber Park
  • Improvements to local open spaces
  • New sports pitches
  • Improvements to sports facilities in Manton area
  • New secondary school satellite
  • Funding to deliver a secondary school
  • Funding to help deliver Worksop Flood Management Scheme
  • Apprenticeship/graduate level training for residents in construction and new businesses
  • Improvements to Bassetlaw Hospital
  • GP surgeries improvements
  • 412 Affordable homes
  • 1335 accessible homes

Pendragon delivers “strong set of results” with record underlying pre-tax profit

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Pendragon delivers “strong set of results” with record underlying pre-tax profit
Pendragon, the Nottingham car retailer, has “delivered a really strong set of results” for 2021, according to its CEO. Results for year ended 31 December 2021 show the business achieved a record underlying profit before tax of £83m, leaping from £8.2m in 2020. Meanwhile revenue grew to £3.4bn from £2.9bn.

Bill Berman, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We have delivered a really strong set of results, with positive contributions from all parts of our business. Late in 2020, we set out our new strategy to transform our operations and adapt to the fast-changing retail environment. Our focus since then has been on creating value through the delivery of this strategy and we are seeing the operational and financial benefits of this hard work in our results today.

“Our sector has experienced a unique set of trading conditions during the period and I am delighted with how we have performed in this environment. We have made the most of the favourable market dynamics to deliver record underlying profits and we have also reported a return to profit for CarStore, our relaunched, used car brand.

“We expect existing supply chain constraints to continue in the current year, and we are mindful of the potential for further disruption to new vehicle supply chains as a result of the conflict in Ukraine. Despite this, we have the right strategy in place and we expect to make positive progress towards our long-term goals this year.”

Tungsten Properties relocates HQ to Leicester

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Tungsten Properties relocates HQ to Leicester
Tungsten Properties, the industrial and warehouse developers, has relocated its HQ to Leicester and appointed Luke Davenport as associate development director to bolster the development team, taking its team of development managers to six. Founded in 2005, Tungsten Properties has been previously based in Hinckley, Leicestershire since 2006 when the firm was just two people strong. Today the company now totals a team of 10 with a current work in progress pipeline of 31 projects which total 6.1 million sq ft, and which span from Merseyside to East Sussex. Due to the company’s rapid expansion, Tungsten Properties has taken 4,702 sq ft (436.82 sq m) at Gateway House, Penman Way, Grove Park in Enderby, Leicester on a 5-year lease from Custodian REIT. Luke is an experienced development surveyor and has joined from Henry Boot Developments where he has worked for nearly ten years on projects which include Butterfield Business Park, Luton and Airport Business Park, Southend. Jeff Penman, Managing Director, Tungsten Properties, said: “There’s no getting away from the current and exceptionally high demand in the industrial and warehousing market. In the last few years, our business has seen rapid growth as we have built our development pipeline with some innovative projects under our belt creating both jobs and providing investor returns. We warmly welcome Luke to our team. His depth of experience and sector knowledge will be an invaluable addition. “Our move to Leicester represents a significant milestone in our evolution and, with purposefully designed new space, it’s a great place for our team to continue to thrive and a place to warmly welcome our investors, agents, suppliers and friends. My thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey and here’s to the next chapter.” Jenny Clarke acquired the space on behalf of Tungsten, with Mike Allwood of Andrew & Ashwell acting for Custodian REIT. Vision Projects completed the fit-out on behalf of Tungsten Properties.

New, fully-funded programme to support business innovation and sustainability in Northamptonshire

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New, fully-funded programme to support business innovation and sustainability in Northamptonshire
The South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership’s (SEMLEP) Growth Hub has launched the Green Recovery and Innovation Programme (GRIP). The effects of climate change are becoming clearer and clearer, and are currently only set to get worse. The science is unambiguous; we need to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050 or risk facing serious consequences.  Communities and businesses need to take action. GRIP is an initiative funded by the Government via the UK Community Renewal Fund and delivered by SEMLEP’s Growth Hub available to businesses in North and West Northamptonshire. It is designed to make it as easy as possible for businesses to become more sustainable, more efficient, more innovative, and more successful. The programme will consist of one-to-one support with a range of experts, including innovation and energy specialists, to help business leaders discuss, identify and develop their innovation and sustainability plans. After this, they will be able to attend a series of workshops designed to help boost their productivity and make their business more sustainable. Businesses will also have the opportunity to apply for grants of up to £10,000 to spend on consultancy support and small capital items of up to £5,000 (50% private sector match required), and to support the innovations that will help make their business more sustainable. By participating in the GRIP programme, business leaders will not only be making their organisations more innovative and sustainable, they will be making them more efficient and profitable by reducing waste and cutting costs. Judith Barker, SEMLEP’s director of programmes and governance, said: “This programme is a timely and much-needed boost for the many companies in Northamptonshire looking to accelerate innovation and make themselves more sustainable, both environmentally and financially. We welcome expressions of interest on our website from any Northamptonshire-based business.” Rachel Mallows, SEMLEP’s Growth Hub Board chair, said: “The Green Recovery and Innovation Programme is a wonderful demonstration that business success can and should go hand-in-hand with helping to protect the environment. It will make it easier than ever for Northamptonshire businesses to not only reduce their carbon footprint, but to evolve, grow and thrive at the same time.”

Leicestershire directors to drive awareness of modern slavery

Tess Egginton
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Leicestershire directors to drive awareness of modern slavery
One of the UK’s leading authorities on modern slavery is to address Leicestershire directors next month. Justine Currell, executive director of anti-slavery charity Unseen, will be the special guest of IoD Leicestershire and South East Midlands on 7 April. The event is free to attend for everyone and will be hosted online, starting at 11am. Unseen estimates that around 40 million people worldwide are in modern slavery. The UK has around 10,000 people in modern slavery, according to the Government. Justine will outline her work with Leicestershire City Council to raise awareness of modern slavery issues, particularly within the textiles and fashion sectors. She was instrumental in the Modern Slavery Act getting through Parliament and has worked closely with local authorities to raise awareness of abuse and exploitation by businesses and within supply chains. Under the Act, certain commercial organisations must publish an annual statement setting out the steps they take to prevent modern slavery in their business and their supply chains. Justine joined Unseen in 2016 following a 28-year career in the Civil Service, culminating in leading the human trafficking agenda at the Home Office. She will be joined at the event by Dr Roger Barker, IoD head of policy and governance, who will outline the Institute’s position on modern slavery. Sarah Canning, chair, IoD Leicestershire and South East Midlands, said: “It is incumbent on all of us to be watchful for the appalling crimes of slavery and exploitation. As the leading organisation for directors, we want to amplify the excellent work being done but also provide business leaders with the latest information so they can consider their own positions, supply chains and employees.”

Manufacturing price expectations hit new high

Tess Egginton
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Manufacturing price expectations hit new high
UK manufacturing output grew at a brisk pace in the three months to March, but the balance of manufacturers expecting to increase prices rose to a survey record high, according to the latest monthly CBI Industrial Trends Survey. The survey, based on 229 responses, found:
  • The balance of manufacturers expecting to raise prices in the next three months rose to a survey record high in March (+80% from +77% in February, a question first asked in Jan 1975).
  • Output volumes continued to grow at a robust pace in the three months to March (balance of +27% from +26% in the three months to February), with a similar rate expected in the three months ahead (+30%).
  • Output increased in 10 out of 17 sectors, with growth driven by the motor vehicles and chemicals sub-sectors.
  • Total order books matched the record level seen in November 2021 (+26% in March, from +20% in February, question first asked in April 1977). Export order books were above normal to the greatest extent since March 2019 (+7% from -7% in February).
  • Stocks of finished goods were seen as inadequate in March but improved for the third consecutive month (-8% from -14%).
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “This survey highlights strong order books and output growth, but the cost pressures facing manufacturers have been amplified by the conflict in Ukraine. “To deliver a fundamental reset to UK growth, we need to see significant action to incentivise investment, a key driver of productivity growth and the only way to sustainably increase real wages. A permanent successor to the Super Deduction will ensure that economic resilience and growth go hand-in-hand.” Tom Crotty, group director at INEOS and chair of the CBI Manufacturing Council, said: “It is positive to see that total order books remained strong in March, with export orders above normal to the greatest since extent since March 2019. Manufacturing output volumes also grew at a significant pace in the first three months of 2022. “However, the Ukraine conflict has created further headwinds to an already challenging context for the manufacturing sector. The primary business focus is of course on supporting the humanitarian crisis and evaluating their operations in Ukraine and Russia. “But the shock to energy and other commodity markets, along with the potential for trade spillovers, will further add to the cost-of-living squeeze. Manufacturers will be looking to the upcoming Spring Fiscal Event to provide support through these challenges.”

PR agency shortlisted for wellbeing award

Tess Egginton
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PR agency shortlisted for wellbeing award
A Northamptonshire PR agency has been shortlisted for an award in recognition of its commitment to wellbeing in the workplace. Ballyhoo PR has been announced as a finalist in the East Midlands round of the FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards 2022 in the Wellbeing Award category. If successful at the East Midlands regional final in Leicester on Wednesday 6 April, the company will go through to a national UK final. The FSB Celebrating Small Business Awards were established by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to celebrate the achievements and contributions of small businesses and the self-employed across the UK. The Wellbeing Award recognises businesses who have demonstrated their commitment to the health and wellbeing of their workforce by developing and implementing an effective, holistic strategy which has had a proven and significant positive impact on its workforce. Ballyhoo PR has been recognised for creating a flexible and supportive place to work for its small team by offering a truly flexible way of working, particularly during school holidays, and by offering emotional support through regular workshops and training and one-to-one meetings. Formerly based in Corby, Ballyhoo PR moved to its current premises at Lamport Manor in July 2021 after a period of remote working during the pandemic, and credits this move with also being a massive boost to team wellbeing. Emma Speirs, director at Ballyhoo PR, said: “The new office has been a massive boost to the team and their mental health and wellbeing. “Aside from the obvious benefits of moving into an office after working remotely for several months and thriving from being able to see each other and work more collaboratively in person, our new office is one of a few small, converted farm buildings in a courtyard and is in a lovely rural setting where our neighbours include a beauty salon, gym, Pilates studio and lots of horses!” The team also have an office dog in Molly, Emma’s cockapoo who joins the team most days. “Supporting working parents is something that I have always been hugely passionate about,” adds Emma. “When I set up Ballyhoo PR in 2016, my children were six and three and I still hadn’t got that balance right between carrying on with my career and being there for my family. Personally, I wanted a job where I could develop and progress up the career ladder just as I had pre having kids but be there to take them to school, pick them up and have dinner with them and put them to bed. “Starting my own business was a way doing both. As the business has grown and I have taken on employees who also happen to be parents, I wanted to create a supportive but productive working environment that allows everyone to work hard and use their hard won skills and knowledge but still be there for the sports days, school plays, drop-offs and pick-ups. “We want to be part of, if not driving the change, to make being a working parent much easier and we are absolutely over the moon to have been shortlisted for this award. We will all be attending the event in April, which will be a wonderfully boosting experience for the team in itself.”

Construction gets underway on £12m Lincolnshire housing scheme

Tess Egginton
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Construction gets underway on £12m Lincolnshire housing scheme
Work has begun on a £12m development that will create 39 new homes in Marton, Lincolnshire. The two to four-bedroom single and two-storey homes in Stow Park Road are being delivered by E5 Living UK, which is promising a new generation of high specification eco-friendly homes including air source heat pumps for buyers looking for more sustainable heating options. Marton Meadows is the second venture in the county for E5, which is also building nearly 100 new homes at King’s Park in Grimsby and has further sites in Market Rasen and Caistor primed for residential development. E5 has teamed up with its King’s Park architect, the Cleethorpes-based Hodson Architects, for the project. It will be built by Kenmore Design, an experienced residential construction contractor that works across the UK, and the selling agent will be Lincoln’s Mount & Minster. The first properties are expected to come to market in the autumn. E5 director, Kevin Stevens, said: “We are delighted to bring these much needed new homes to Marton, particularly as there’s a nationwide shortage of single storey and eco-friendly homes. People want to live cleaner and take responsibility for themselves concerning the environment we all live in. “Our experience in Lincolnshire to date has shown that buyers are keen on the open plan contemporary style properties we deliver as they offer more flexible living and suit the way we use our homes today.” E5 has already started building links in the community, building a new car park at the neighbouring Marton Academy and is looking to further support local charities and organisations during the build. Andy Miles, director of Kenmore Design, said: “Working with E5 Living UK and in this area of Lincolnshire is an exciting development for us. We will be building on our supply chain network here, which will have a valuable impact on the local economy. “E5 has a clear vision for a new generation of homes at Marton Meadows and we’re looking forward to delivering them.” James Ward, partner at Mount & Minster, added: “It is a fantastic opportunity for environmentally conscious buyers who demand the highest standards of build quality and luxury finishes. “E5 has really listened to what the market is asking for and the new homes in Marton will deliver this with style. I am excited to bring to market a development of extremely well designed and built high spec properties; it is a perfect fit with the Mount & Minster brand.”

Alliance Transport Technologies accelerates growth plans with multi-million pound BGF investment

Tess Egginton
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Alliance Transport Technologies accelerates growth plans with multi-million pound BGF investment
Derbyshire-headquartered Alliance Transport Technologies (ATT) has attracted funding from the growth capital investor, BGF. Alliance has pioneered the use of remanufacturing electronic components to allow commercial vehicle operators to decarbonise the maintenance of their fleets. Over the last few years, ATT has extended this expertise into Hybrid Electric Battery Technology. Using ATTs capabilities, UK bus, coach and commercial vehicle operators are now able to significantly expand the life of the Hybrid Batteries, delivering them both cost savings, reducing their carbon footprint and levels of e-waste. As a result, ATT has won long term service contracts to manage EV batteries with five of the largest UK National Bus Groups. BGF’s investment will enable ATT to accelerate investment in R&D, with the opening of a new R&D centre near Coventry, and deliver ambitious expansion plans supporting fleet managers with innovative solutions to support resource efficiency, decarbonisation, and the move to EV & hydrogen over the next decade. ATT’s growth objectives are underpinned by strong market dynamics driven by the increasing demand for remanufactured solutions as the green and circular economy agendas continue to accelerate. Commenting on the deal, ATT CEO Ivan Gunatilleke said: “The last few years have been tough for all of us both personally and professionally. It is great to see the efforts of the entire ATT rewarded by the BGF investment. This is massive vote of confidence in a team that is committed to making a real difference. “As a business, we’ve been growing steadily and have established ourselves as the first port of call for sustainable aftermarket solutions for our customers. ATT’s reputation has been built on our uncompromising approach to quality and a dedication to partnering with our customers to provide them with a solution that works best for them. “The urgent need to meet carbon reduction goals and support government targets around the transition from diesel vehicles provides a significant opportunity for growth. BGFs backing means we can continue to invest heavily in the things that will make a real difference going forward. Not only research and development but also investing significantly into developing the entire ATT team and the value proposition that we can give our customers.” The deal was led by BGF investors Aaron Baker and Elena Kovalikhina. Aaron Baker has also joined the Board as BGF director. Thierry Bouzac has also joined the board as non-executive chairman (NXC), bringing significant experience from both the aftermarket and services sector. His appointment follows an introduction by BGF’s Talent Network. Aaron Baker, investor at BGF, said: “In ATT, we are backing an enthusiastic and talented management team with a market-leading offering that’s helping customers reduce emissions and increase resource efficiency. In a critical year for energy transition, ATT offers cost, service and ESG benefits to customers, and is an early mover in fleet management support for hybrid and electric vehicles. We’re looking forward to supporting ATT building on the success it has had to date.” The advisors to the transaction were Browne Jacobson (legal), Navigo (FDD), BDO (tax) for BGF and Clarkslegal (legal) for the company.

Corby investor acquires precision engineering business

Tess Egginton
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Corby investor acquires precision engineering business
Corby-based Nene Capital, an opportunity focused investor in UK SMEs, has acquired Seeco, a specialist precision engineering business based in Bedfordshire, in a deal supported by FRP Corporate Finance. Nene Capital has acquired Seeco from its founder management team as its first transaction of 2022. Seeco was formed in 1986 and has gone from strength to strength under the diligent stewardship of its management during the last three and a half decades. Seeco has a long-held reputation for quality and client service, working with a range of customers as a trusted partner, with its loyal and experienced workforce giving the business considerable competitive advantage and it is Nene Capital’s aspiration to continue to support and grow the business from this robust foundation. As part of the deal, the existing management team will remain in place for the foreseeable future and support Nene Capital to identify and appoint suitable successors in due course. Stephen Bayliss, Managing Director of Nene Capital, said: “We are delighted to add Seeco to our growing portfolio of high performing SME’s. This has marked the culmination of what has been an extremely busy start to 2022. This recent acquisition sets out our aspiration for both pace and growth as we continue to build our high growth, high return strategies. “Overall, we remain bullish about the UK upper SME market and our ability to continue to deliver value on a risk adjusted basis. We are actively pursuing other acquisition opportunities to continue to execute our growth aspirations.” Simon Stringer, finance director of Nene Capital, said: “This is an exciting acquisition for Nene Capital. Seeco has built customer loyalty through a focus on quality and delivery and this has in turn established an enviable financial performance and stability. Seeco represents exactly the sort of business we are profiling for this portfolio.” Harry Walker, partner at FRP Corporate Finance, added: “We were pleased to find the ideal home for Seeco; Nene Capital offer the business long term and supportive ownership, while facilitating a managed transition to the next phase of the business’s growth story.” The founders of Seeco were advised on the sale by Harry Walker and Marco Piacquadio of FRP Corporate Finance, with legal advice from Simon Parrott of Sharman’s Law.
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