More Chesterfield businesses must access apprenticeships and skills support to meet economic need
Chesterfield businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of funded training to accelerate workforce development and boost productivity, to support the town’s economic growth.
Delegates at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference heard about support for skills development in Chesterfield and the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s priority to further improve training and skills to match the region’s economic needs.
Regional skills and employment initiatives will be backed by a £70m investment spanning six workstreams, each designed to offer a clear pathway of support from early careers inspiration through to skills delivery at higher levels for all residents.
Speaking at the event, Cllr Paul Hezelgrave, Portfolio Lead for Skills & Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), addressed the town’s role in the growth of the region.
He said: “With a working age population of some 64,000, and a town that currently supports 51,000 jobs, forecasted to grow further in the coming years, Chesterfield is an important economic centre; the town’s growth principles of delivering higher value, sustainable and inclusive growth support our vision and will be intrinsic in us delivering our priorities.”
The conference also heard how young people in our region and people with disabilities are becoming more involved through the Connected Futures Project. Discussions around skills and inclusive recruitment seek to improve employment outcomes for working-age young people with learning difficulties and autism spectrum disorders.
A team of Youth Voice Ambassadors representing our region spoke to delegates about the importance of inclusivity in decision-making processes and empowering young people along their journey into the world of work.
In addition to regional investment, delegates heard how later this year a £40m investment from the government via the Growth and Skills Levy will replace the existing Apprenticeship Levy, bringing more flexibility to skills and talent growth, funding a wider range of apprenticeships and training that is aligned with the evolving needs of business.
The Conference was held during National Apprenticeship Week, which Chesterfield celebrates as the first town in the UK to officially declare itself an ‘Apprentice Town’.
New figures released during National Apprenticeship Week highlight the growing success of apprenticeships in Chesterfield, with achievement rates rising by 33% in 2023/24 compared to 2019/20. In the past financial year alone, 370 individuals successfully completed apprenticeships in the town.
As well as allowing learners to progress quickly whilst in paid employment, research further underscores the significant economic benefits of apprenticeships, with a report by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research finding that every pound invested in apprenticeships delivers a net gain of £21 to the UK economy. Currently, over 1,500 individuals are undertaking apprenticeships in Chesterfield, representing a substantial investment in local talent.
To help businesses navigate their options, the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service offers specialist support tailored to workforce development needs. Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice-Chair of Destination Chesterfield, urged local companies to take action: “I welcome the additional investment that EMCCA is bringing to skills and employment activity in Chesterfield.
“It strengthens the offer that we are already delivering to support businesses in the borough. I strongly encourage all businesses to get in touch with our Skills Brokerage Service at the earliest opportunity to see how we can provide the support they need to enhance skills and grow their business.
“We need to work together to ensure Chesterfield possesses a vibrant and talented workforce that can take advantage of future opportunities to grow our economy.”
Freeths names first recipients of newly launched bursary programme
Law firm Freeths has named the first two students who have been accepted onto its newly launched bursary programme. They are Umamah Faquirbhai from De Montfort University (DMU) and Maymunah Valimia from the University of Leicester.
The bursary will provide the local undergraduate law students with £4,000 annually, during their second and third years at university, as well as wider support from the firm during this time. This includes mentoring, a paid summer placement and an interview for the firm’s graduate apprenticeship scheme, based in Leicester.
Having impressed senior leaders at Freeths during an assessment day, both Maymunah and Umamah are now determined to make the most of this opportunity.
Maymunah said: “I come from a low-income family, but I don’t want that to stop me. I’m determined to become a great lawyer and I’m up for the challenge. When I researched Freeths, I loved what I found and had a feeling this was right for me.”
Umamah continued: “This opportunity is a real stepping stone for me. I want to do my best for my entire family. I work part-time as an exam invigilator and the bursary means I can now work fewer hours and focus on my studies.”
The bursary was established in memory of Mukesh Patel, former Managing Partner of Freeths’ Leicester, who passed away in February 2023 aged 54, leaving behind his wife Rita and their two sons.
Mukesh was a respected and popular member of Freeths and his local legal community. He was born and went to school in Leicester and led the firm’s regional Dispute Resolution team. He subsequently became Managing Partner in 2014.
Freeths launched the scheme to honour Mukesh’s legacy and highlight his commitment to diversity and equality within the legal sphere and the local business community. The programme aims to continue Mukesh’s passion for opening doors for young people from less privileged backgrounds in Leicestershire.
Lisa Gilligan, Managing Partner of Freeths Leicester, added: “We were delighted by the quality of applicants and both Umamah and Maymunah were stand out candidates and are worthy recipients of the bursary.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming them into the office for their summer work experience and it’s been great to get to know them during the application process. The firm’s commitment to the bursary is a fitting tribute to Mukesh’s legacy and one that he would have been proud of.”
East Lindsey Council moves to exit nuclear waste site process
East Lindsey District Council is preparing to withdraw from discussions on a potential nuclear waste storage site in Lincolnshire, signaling a shift in its stance on the controversial project.
The council initially joined a Working Group in 2021 to explore the feasibility of using the former gas terminal in Theddlethorpe as a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). However, Nuclear Waste Services (NWS), the government agency overseeing the project, has since identified a different location—four square kilometers of agricultural land between Gayton le Marsh and Great Carlton—as a preferred site.
Council leaders now argue that the new location, which has no history of industrial use and sits in a rural area near the Lincolnshire Wolds, is unsuitable for such a facility. The council has also raised concerns about additional infrastructure, including the potential construction of pylons in the area as part of the National Grid’s Grimsby to Walpole project.
As a result, East Lindsey District Council plans to withdraw from the process. However, Lincolnshire County Council remains involved, and a formal public support test is still planned for 2027. If the county council also withdraws, the siting process in Lincolnshire would likely end.
Nuclear Waste Services has acknowledged East Lindsey’s concerns and thanked the council for participating in the discussions. The agency is also considering two other potential sites in Cumbria.
Kettering Hospital to Expand Maternity Unit with £33M Investment
Kettering General Hospital has secured NHS approval for a £33 million expansion of its maternity unit after structural issues forced a partial closure in 2023. The project, expected to be completed within two years, will include a new 32-bed facility and additional upgrades to improve maternity care.
The decision follows the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) in the roof of the hospital’s Rockingham Wing, a material commonly used in the 1970s that has since been found to deteriorate over time. The structural concerns led to significant disruption in maternity services, prompting urgent action to address the issue.
This investment is part of a broader government commitment of up to £1.5 billion for the hospital’s redevelopment. The University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) has worked closely with NHS England to determine the best approach to restoring and improving maternity services.
Construction in the broader hospital rebuild is scheduled between 2032 and 2034.
Derelict Derbyshire site to be transformed into watersports hub
A long-abandoned garden centre in Cromford is set for redevelopment after Derbyshire Dales District Council approved plans for a new watersports facility. Peak UK Kayaking, a company known for designing gear used by Olympic athletes, will repurpose the former Cromford garden centre site along the A6 and canal.
The development will include facilities for Paddlepeak, the company’s charitable initiative, which introduces children to kayaking and supports river clean-up efforts along the Derwent. The project is also expected to create more than 10 jobs.
The garden centre, which has been vacant since 2006, has become a hotspot for trespassers and urban explorers. Local authorities have expressed support for the site’s revitalization, though concerns remain about sewage management and potential environmental impacts on the river.
Peak UK Kayaking, founded in the Lake District and operating in Cromford since 1995, has since expanded its operations and now produces 35,000 garments annually.
New Enterprise Centre completes at Arnold’s AMP building
Gedling Borough Council has completed its new Enterprise Centre at the flagship AMP building in Arnold. This space, designed to support local startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is now ready for use.
The council have invested funds, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), into fitting out the previously vacant first floor of the AMP, transforming it into modern office spaces and a meeting room. The facilities also include parking, an EV charging point and a shower room, so that tenants can choose sustainable travel options.
The AMP, located on the former Arnold Market site, opened in 2022 and has since become home to several successful small businesses on its ground floor. With the completion of the first-floor development, the centre will further support Gedling Borough Council’s priorities, including revitalising town centres, increasing footfall to the Arnold shopping precinct, and creating opportunities for local businesses.
The building has been designed to use less energy, use more renewable energy and reduce its CO2 emissions. It has several energy efficient designs including 51 solar panels, natural ventilation points, and high efficiency LED lighting. The building is also fitted with rainwater retention tanks to offset carbon emissions and has an Energy Performance Rating ‘B’, which is above average for commercial property.
Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the Enterprise Centre at the AMP. This new space will provide a vital resource for local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs looking for office space in the heart of Arnold. We’ve seen the success of the ground floor units and we are confident the first floor will follow suit, bringing more jobs and growth to the area.”
Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy at Gedling Borough Council, said: “This sustainable project is part of our wider effort to support high streets, including free two-hour parking in all our car parks.
“The AMP’s expansion is yet another step in our commitment to boosting the local economy and providing essential support for businesses. The energy efficiency measures will benefit new tenants and contribute to the council’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030”.
The completion of this project comes as part of broader regeneration plans for the northern part of Arnold, including the council’s recent purchase of vacant units and the development of a masterplan aimed at attracting further investment into the town.
TBG Furniture secures private equity investment to drive growth
TBG Furniture, a leading manufacturer of upholstered furniture and soft furnishings, has secured investment from Blandford Capital in a deal that marks NorthEdge Capital’s exit from the business.
The company, which generates approximately £80 million in annual revenue, operates across the UK and internationally, supplying retailers, the leisure industry, and the furniture trade. It employs nearly 1,000 people across North Wales, Lancashire, Derbyshire, and Romania facilities.
Under the new ownership, CEO Tom Prestwich and the existing management team will continue to lead the business. The investment from Blandford Capital is expected to support further expansion and strengthen TBG’s position in both domestic and export markets.
The acquisition includes TBG’s key brands: Westbridge Furniture, Tetrad, Belfield Leisure, and Clinchplain. Blandford Capital’s involvement is aimed at capitalising on growth opportunities in the UK’s upholstered furniture sector while expanding international reach.
NorthEdge Capital, which has backed TBG Furniture since its ownership of the Belfield Group, has now exited the business as part of the transaction.
Dawson Group expands East Midlands operations with Newark storage site
Asset leasing firm Dawson Group is expanding its presence in the East Midlands with a new storage site in Newark. The company has secured nearly five acres of land on Brunel Drive to support its industrial equipment leasing operations, which will continue to be managed from its Sutton-in-Ashfield base.
The location, situated less than a mile from the A1, provides easy access to key transport routes, enhancing Dawson Group’s ability to serve regional and national clients.
The lease agreement was facilitated by property agencies Eddisons and CPP on behalf of the landlord. The demand for secure open storage sites remains high, particularly in logistics and infrastructure-related sectors, as businesses seek strategically positioned locations to support supply chain operations.
Apprenticeship sector celebrated at glittering awards ceremony
As part of its National Apprenticeship Week (10th to 16th February) festivities, the College welcomed apprentices, teaching staff and employers to recognise their outstanding achievements over the past year.
The event was hosted by Laura Shepherd, Loughborough College’s Director of Strategic Partnerships and External Relationships, who led the celebrations by highlighting the successes of all involved.
She said: “Apprenticeships form a key part of what makes Loughborough College so special, and we are proud of our expanding provision across several key sectors in the Midlands, including Engineering, Warehousing and Logistics, and Education and Care.
“Not only were we impressed by the amount of award nominations we received, but the calibre of talent as well. Getting to read about the fantastic work that goes on across the industry was truly inspiring. Well done to all of our nominees, finalists and winners.”
The eight awards were split into three main categories: Employer of the Year, Special Awards and Apprentice of the Year. Each one highlighted the award winner’s dedication to the apprenticeship sector and their commitment to developing the workforce of tomorrow.
Corrie Harris, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “Apprenticeships represent a unique and invaluable route into a successful career, and we were thrilled to celebrate our students, employers and staff at the awards ceremony.
“Our apprenticeship programmes do not just transform careers; they transform lives and provide apprentices with the confidence to excel in their professions and contribute to local, national, and regional communities.”
£12.6m delivery contract signed for Nottingham’s first new bridge since the 1950s
Nottingham City Council have entered into a £12.6m delivery contract with Balfour Beatty to deliver the city’s new 85 metre long walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent.
It is expected that over 100 people will be employed during the project, including four apprentices.
The network arch bridge will be 20 metres high from its deck to its peak, weighing in at 160 tonnes, or about as much as a blue whale.
The new foot and cycle bridge will link the north side of the river where the new Trent Basin community of 350 homes continues to take shape, and the south side of the river with sports facilities, riverside walks and green spaces close by.
This contract signing signals the start of construction for the bridge scheme, with the first activity on site the demolition of the warehouse previously used by Flo Skate Park – this is required to create the space necessary for the construction of the bridge.
Construction timeline:
- February/March: Site clearance including vegetation clearance and demolishing a warehouse formerly used by Flo Skate Park
- March: Balfour Beatty will bring equipment, materials and cabins to site
- April onwards: Pilings are screwed into the ground to support the bridge structure
- Summer – Autumn: The bridge will be built on site using large, prefabricated sections of steel arriving from local company Briton Fabricators Ltd, based just eight miles away in Hucknall
- November: The completed bridge and basin bridge will be lifted into place on its supports by a huge crane
- Winter 25/26: Ramps, steps and hard and soft landscaping completed including paving, planting and lighting
- Spring 2026: The new bridge opens
Former lace factory to address crucial gap in homelessness support system following sale
BB&J Commercial has sold Lee House, 10 Alpine Street, Old Basford to Framework Housing Association.
Previously owned by Fredk. Johnson Lace Ltd, Lee House has been a key part of Nottingham’s lace and textile industry since 1989, providing workspace for various textile and fabric businesses and contributing to the city’s manufacturing heritage.
With its industrial legacy coming to an end, Framework Housing Association plans to redevelop the site into 20 self-contained units under the Homes England ‘Single Homeless Accommodation Programme’.
This development will provide long-term housing solutions for individuals facing severe disadvantage, addressing a crucial gap in the homelessness support system. Designed with safety and community integration in mind, the project will incorporate controlled access and CCTV, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for residents and neighbouring businesses.
Cameron Godfrey, agent at BB&J Commercial responsible for the sale, said: “We received a significant amount of interest in Lee House, but it was clear that Framework’s proposal would deliver lasting benefits to the community.
“Seeing this historic site repurposed into a development that will positively impact vulnerable individuals is truly rewarding. I extend my best wishes to my client as they move on from Lee House and look forward to seeing Framework Housing Association bring their vision to life, delivering much-needed housing and support to those in need.”
The seller, Neil Johnson, said: “I would like to say thank you to Cameron and Mark. Your advice was invaluable, and your exposure to the market was surprising. Putting my mind back to the beginning, I think we had five offers in the space of 2 weeks.
“In the end our buyer was a very professional outfit, they kept us in the loop all the way to the end.”
Planning permission granted for new Corby apartments
National property consultancy Lanpro has secured a resolution to grant planning permission on behalf of Glenrowan Homes for the development of 150 apartments on Alexandra Road in Corby, Northamptonshire.
The 0.89 ha site, the location of a former Co-op retail unit in Corby town centre, will provide 150 new apartments: 74 one bedroom flats, 75 two beds and one three bed. The scheme will also include 2,165 sq ft of commercial space on the ground floor.
The scheme itself does not provide affordable housing, but £360,000 in financial contributions will be made by Glenrowan Homes towards local affordable housing, education and/or health funding.
The development value is circa £20m.
Sav Patel, Associate Director in Lanpro’s Cambridge office, said: “We are delighted to have won this planning consent on behalf of Glenrowan Homes.
“After a planning long journey, and a near refusal at the first planning committee due to a technical issue, it was very pleasing to get a positive resolution on this major regeneration project which will help to build on the regeneration work of Corby town centre.
“Once complete, the building will be a focal point for the town centre which we hope will lead to other nearby regeneration sites coming forward.”
Chris Carty, Managing Director of Glenrowan Homes, said: “We are delighted that North Northamptonshire Council has recognised the value of the development proposal, which will make a real difference to Corby town centre.
“Corby is undergoing a transformation and growing quicky thanks to demand for new homes. This development will not only help meet need but will help enliven the town centre and support its ongoing regeneration.”
Construction work is due to begin on site in late 2025 and the scheme is targeted to complete in late 2027.
In achieving planning success, Lanpro worked alongside architecture practice McBains and project manager Developer Connections.
Bakewell company secures £250k loan to support regeneration projects
Bakewell-based Digital Urban has secured a £250,000 debt finance package from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II.
The money has come from Maven Capital, Fund Manager for East and South East Midlands, Maven Capital Partners, and will support Digital Urban’s use of cutting edge technology to support urban regeneration projects by creating detailed digital twins and immersive planning solutions. The company’s key services include model development, platform services, and consultation services.
Digital Urban intends to invest in its sales and technical teams, develop scalable products to align with its services, and expand its client base nationally, including planning authorities across the UK.
Digital Urban’s ability to integrate comprehensive data, ranging from public transport usage to environmental impact metrics is used to create highly accurate 3D interactive models, enabling local authorities and stakeholders to visualise complex projects in detail. These models have proven to significantly boost community engagement, with participation from younger demographics rising from 6% to more than 40% in consultation processes.
Simon Mabey, Founder of Digital Urban, said:“Our growth so far has been driven by client referrals and repeat business, which is a testament to the value we deliver. The funding from Maven and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II allows us to actively promote our product suite to a wider audience and reach new markets.
“Local authorities value how we help them engage more effectively with their citizens and stakeholders, and we’re passionate about the work we do. Expanding our reach is an exciting step forward for the team, and we look forward to supporting more communities across the UK.”
AG Corporate Law strengthens team
Boutique law firm AG Corporate Law (AGCL) has reinforced its growing team with the appointments of Corporate Law Executives Oreva Ojuh and Jamie Carrick.
Oreva brings five years of experience in corporate and commercial law. Originally from Nigeria, she qualified as a Barrister and Solicitor before moving to the UK two years ago. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Ambrose Alli University, Nigeria, and a Master’s Degree in International Commercial Law from Nottingham Trent University.
Currently, she is working towards qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. In her role, Oreva will assist with corporate transactions, including reviewing key transaction documents, facilitating communication between parties, and ensuring clients receive timely updates on their legal matters.
Commenting on her appointment, Oreva said: “AGCL is a fantastic place to work. As a fast-growing organisation, with just over two years of practice, AGCL has expanded exponentially, providing top-tier legal services to businesses across the Midlands.
“I am eager to be a part of and contribute to this growth and very excited as I get to carry out work that I love with people that have quickly become my family.”
Joining Oreva at AGCL is Jamie Carrick, who has an impressive academic background, holding an LLB in Law, an LLM (Master of Laws), and having completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC).
Specialising in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), Jamie will support transactions from start to finish, including negotiating terms, conducting due diligence, and drafting key legal documents such as share purchase agreements and shareholder agreements.
Jamie was drawn to AGCL by its dynamic workload, strong workplace culture, and hands-on learning opportunities: “Every day presents a new challenge, and I appreciate the chance to engage directly with directors and gain invaluable insights. The training experience here is practical, and the team provides the perfect balance of independence and support.”
Adam Gilbert, Managing Director of AG Corporate Law, expressed his enthusiasm for the new hires: “It’s been an exceptional couple of years trading for all of us at AGCL.
“We have surpassed our expectations, but we are now reaching a stage where we require additional internal support. With Oreva’s extensive experience and Jamie’s enthusiasm and sharp legal mind, they are both ideal additions to our team as we enter this next phase of growth.”
Outside of work, Oreva enjoys reading crime fiction novels and television series, imagining herself in the courtroom tackling defence and prosecution strategies. Jamie, on the other hand, is an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for hockey, rugby, bouldering, and hiking. He is also actively involved in charity work, having participated in several fundraising events, including the Derby 10K, and is set to take on the Trek26 challenge in support of the Alzheimer’s Society.
WBR Group acquires Standard Life’s SSAS book
WBR Group (WBR), the independent provider of SSAS administration and tax advisory services, has acquired Standard Life’s small self administered scheme (SSAS) book of business.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in WBR’s long standing relationship with Standard Life, having administered this SSAS book for over 20 years.
The Standard Life SSAS book of business consists of 270 schemes with 246 properties and £403m in assets under administration.
Clients will continue to be managed by the same dedicated team, ensuring no disruption in service. The only change they may notice will be a slight branding change, reflecting WBR Group’s identity.
There will be a change of trustee from Standard Life Trustee Company Limited (SLTC) to WBR Trustees Limited.
This acquisition will allow clients to benefit from WBR’s specialised expertise and clients will gain access to additional investment options and services.
Martin Tilley, Director of WBR Group, said: “We are really pleased to have the opportunity to acquire the Standard Life SSAS book of business that we have administered under an outsourcing agreement for over 20 years.
“This is an unusual acquisition of a book we obviously know well. The clients will notice very little difference in the service other than having access to a wider range of investment options and potentially enhanced bank interest rates obtainable through our collective buying power.”
Jenny Holt, Product Director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “The SSAS market is specialist and these clients can have complex business and retirement planning needs.
“Transferring schemes will benefit from the services and solutions of a provider focused on meeting these needs while also allowing us to focus on our core Workplace and Retail propositions.”
Key milestone achieved at Redmoor Academy
Works are progressing for Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, on the recently commenced Redmoor Academy project. The completion of the steel frame structure, along with associated groundworks mark an important milestone for the scheme’s ongoing progress.
Funded by Leicestershire County Council, the enhancement works for the academy on Wykin Road will include delivering brand new educational spaces to enrich the lives of pupils and cater to the academy’s increasing capacity.
Works will comprise the construction of a 696 sq m sports hall for indoor sports including cricket, basketball, netball, badminton and handball. The building will include changing rooms, a reception area, offices, four classrooms and a fitness room, creating a first-class learning environment for students.
The new sports hall will be the latest addition to the campus undertaken by G F Tomlinson, following the completion of the new teacher car park last year.
Works are progressing well on site with the Vibro stone piling, drainage, and concrete foundations now complete, alongside the steel frame. Current works taking place include the pre-cast floor planks and sub structure masonry.
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “The team are making great progress at Redmoor Academy and we are pleased to be delivering enhanced educational facilities for current and future pupils at the school.
“The new dedicated spaces will allow the academy to expand and improve its current curriculum catering to the growing pupil capacity of Redmoor for the coming years.”
Redmoor Academy Principal Matt Nicolle said: “As the school has grown, our infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with sports facilities being the worst affected. This fantastic, cutting-edge new sports facility will not only inspire our students to greater achievements but also provide the local community with better facilities.”
UK economy grows, beating expectations
Easing the risk of a recession, the UK’s economy saw fractional growth in the final quarter of 2024.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, is estimated to have risen by 0.1% in the October to December period, following no growth in the previous quarter. It beats expectations of a contraction of -0.1%.
Across key sectors, growth in services (0.2%) and construction (0.5%) output led the way, while production fell by 0.8%.
Monthly data, meanwhile, shows GDP expanded 0.4% in December, above expectations of 0.1%, largely because of growth in the service sector.
Responding to the figures, Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “News that there was a modest up-tick in growth in the weeks running up to Christmas is far preferable to the alternative but flat growth registered across the final quarter will not come as a surprise to many small firms.
“The fall in production in the last quarter shows that evidence of a feel-good factor from the end of last year is sadly lacking, with members telling us they are finding trading conditions difficult, to say the least.
“With tax changes coming up in April, and the looming Employment Rights Bill which is set to put a big dampener on small businesses’ willingness to take on staff, any economic uplift that has been carried over from last year will be a help, but more must be done to offset turbulence.
“The recent cut in the base rate is a good sign, but will not by itself be enough to give small businesses the confidence they need to choose to invest in their operations, which is what is needed for long-term, substantial and sustainable growth in GDP.
“The Government has loudly stated its commitment to growth, which we agree with, but we need to see words turned into actions in the shortest possible timeframe, so that this positive momentum can snowball into a virtuous circle of investment, productivity gains, and greater prosperity in every part of the UK.”
Plans to build a ‘stronger economy and stronger communities’ outlined in NE Lincs
The new Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall and Market scheme and supporting other development is central to the council’s commitment to growing a stronger economy.
Members of North East Lincolnshire Council’s cabinet have unanimously supported the authority’s proposed Budget, Finance and Business Plan for the financial year starting on April 1, 2025.
This plan will now progress to next week’s Full Council meeting for discussion and vote.
A key detail recommended and approved at last night’s cabinet meeting was a core Council Tax increase of 1.98% and the application of a 2% Adult Social Care precept.
The overall proposed plan reflects the aims and objects set out in the new Council Plan, which will come into effect from April 1. This puts a ‘Stronger Economy’ and ‘Stronger Communities’ at the heart of the authority’s vision.
Priorities to achieving this vision are outlined and include:
- The continued transformation of Children’s Services. The plan details how current work is having a ‘positive impact on outcomes for our children and young people, as well as supporting financial sustainability’.
- Again, with a focus on transformation, attention will be put on Adult Social Care where innovative solutions will be explored. This will help to meet an increase in demand and complexity of care.
- Continuing with a ‘commercial approach’ to grow a strong and sustainable economy. It details how major investments, such as the redevelopment of Freshney Place, are progressing and will support the borough at a time of economic challenge.
- A pledge to ensure the capital programme is reviewed regularly to ensure schemes remain viable. This approach, adds the report, will help ensure plans remain ‘affordable, sustainable and prudent’.
Student housing portfolio relisted at £30M after price reduction
Beachrock has significantly lowered the asking price for a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) portfolio, now seeking £30 million after initially marketing the properties at £90 million. The portfolio comprises over 1,000 student beds across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
The assets are spread across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield. Initially part of the offering, a Cambridge property is no longer included. The remaining properties, which vary in size and price per bed, are available for purchase individually or as a group, with offers due by March 20.
The portfolio is now priced at £26,300 per bedroom, aligning with previous market interest. Beachrock stated that the new price reflects previous interest in the portfolio, aligning with market valuations.
M54-M6 Link road upgrade could reduce congestion and improve freight movement
According to a new analysis from Midlands Connect, a proposed road link between the M54 and M6 in Staffordshire could significantly cut congestion and improve freight movement. The project, which would connect Junction 1 of the M54 to Junction 11 of the M6, is expected to divert thousands of vehicles off local roads and onto a more efficient motorway route.
The A460 carries around 20,000 vehicles daily, with freight accounting for 28% of the traffic. If the link road is completed, traffic on the A460 could drop to just 4,000 vehicles per day, reducing congestion and improving journey times. The most significant delays occur between the Laney Green Interchange and the A460/M6 Toll junction, where peak-hour speeds are well below the national average.
Supporters of the project highlight the environmental benefits of diverting freight from residential areas and the potential for improved transport efficiency. The government approved the link road in 2022, but with the Department for Transport currently reviewing its spending priorities, no timeline has been confirmed for its construction.
Staffordshire County Council has backed the project, citing its potential to enhance connectivity, reduce emissions, and support long-term regional investment.
