Upperton boosts precision filling at Nottingham site

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Upperton boosts precision filling at Nottingham site

Upperton Pharma Solutions has expanded its production capabilities with the addition of a Fill2Weight gravimetric powder filling system at its Nottingham facility. The upgrade strengthens the company’s capacity for accurate and consistent powder dosing across multiple dosage forms, including oral, nasal, pulmonary, and parenteral products.

The Fill2Weight machine, developed by 3P innovation, uses a gravimetric dosing mechanism that ensures each capsule or device meets precise weight specifications. This capability supports complex and high-potency formulations, as well as projects involving limited-quantity active pharmaceutical ingredients.

The new system forms part of Upperton’s 60,000-square-foot GMP facility, which provides formulation development and clinical manufacturing services for small and mid-sized pharmaceutical companies. Its advanced dosing technology enables faster development cycles, allowing partners to progress from research to clinical trial stages with greater efficiency and reduced risk.

Ian Lafferty, Chief Technical Officer at Upperton, commented: “This addition marks a significant advancement in our GMP manufacturing capabilities, increasing our capacity to manufacture small-molecule and high potency medicines for clinical trials”.

Upperton continues to position itself as a key CDMO partner in the formulation and production of solid oral and dry powder medicines. The company’s investment in precision filling technology reinforces its commitment to supporting innovative drug development and manufacturing for the global pharmaceutical sector.

Housing and school development in Barrow-upon-Soar set for approval

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Housing and school development in Barrow-upon-Soar set for approval

A large-scale housing and education project in Barrow-upon-Soar is expected to move forward following a recommendation for approval by planning officers at Charnwood Borough Council.

The proposal, submitted by Bloor Homes, outlines the construction of up to 220 residential properties on land north of Willow Road in Leicestershire. Sixty-six of the planned homes are designated as affordable housing, with the remainder comprising a range of property types to accommodate different household needs.

The development includes a new primary school to support growing demand in the area, alongside contributions to local infrastructure such as road upgrades, public transport enhancements, and improvements to nearby healthcare facilities.

A legal agreement is being prepared to formalise the developer’s financial contributions to community services and amenities. The council’s planning committee is expected to review and decide on the application later this month.

If approved, the project will mark a significant expansion for Barrow-upon-Soar, supporting both residential growth and local service capacity.

Festival raising over half a million for rough sleepers set to return

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Festival raising over half a million for rough sleepers set to return
Beat The Streets, the music festival originated by DHP Family to raise funds to help homeless people, will return on Sunday 25 January 2026. The multi-venue festival in Nottingham has raised an impressive total of £554,155 for Framework – the charity working to end homelessness across the East Midlands – since its inception in 2018. Joseph Patten, DHP Family, said: “Hitting a milestone like half a million pounds raised after our 2025 festival was a massive moment for everyone involved in Beat The Streets and we’re excited to get the ball rolling again now for 2026. “We’ll have an exciting line-up of Nottingham’s greatest musicians coming soon, so watch this space and grab your ticket next week to show your support for Framework.” Last year’s Beat The Streets fundraising went towards securing Nottingham’s Street Outreach Team. These vital frontline workers go out 365 days a year to provide lifesaving support to rough sleepers across the city helping them to find safe and suitable accommodation. The funds raised in 2026 will go towards Framework’s Homeless to Home campaign to complete the development of 20 self-contained homes in Basford. When complete, Lee House will become home to some of the most vulnerable men in Nottingham along with round the clock support to help them move towards a better future. Previously the money raised has enabled Framework to employ mental health workers to support rough sleepers with complex needs, enabled its emergency winter shelter to stay open all year and helped to open new accommodation for former rough sleepers. Claire Eden, Framework’s head of fundraising, said: “Funds raised at Beat The Streets make a massive difference in helping Framework meet the challenges of homelessness, and particularly rough sleeping, in Nottingham. “Income from Beat The Streets allows us to address the most urgent need at that time, supplementing the ongoing commitment of Nottingham City Council. “Since 2018, Beat The Streets income has been used to employ extra staff, keep services open, and help fund the building of new accommodation, among many other things. Being able to count on this support is worth its weight in gold. “We are so grateful for the continuing commitment of DHP to present this outstanding music and fundraising event, and to everyone who makes it happen – the staff at DHP, the musicians who give their services and everyone else who volunteers and, of course, the enthusiastic audiences. “Roll on Sunday 25 January for another memorable and inspiring event.” Beat The Streets has seen hundreds of artists from across the region take to the stages over the years including Jake Bugg, Sleaford Mods, Grace Petrie, Ferocious Dog, Do Nothing, Divorce, Bored Marsh, JayaHadaDream and GIRLBAND! to name just a few. The festival will take place across stages at Rock City, Rescue Rooms, Stealth, The Bodega and Rough Trade. Beat The Streets tickets giving access to all participating venues throughout the whole day are available for the recommended donation of £20. Additional donations can be made at the time of purchase.

Spitfire sets sights on East Midlands expansion

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Spitfire sets sights on East Midlands expansion

Spitfire Homes has outlined further growth across the East Midlands with plans for 48 new homes in Kislingbury, Northamptonshire. The proposed development will sit alongside the company’s existing Pembleton collection, extending its presence in one of the region’s sought-after village locations.

The move forms part of a wider strategy that includes planning applications for more than 500 homes across the Midlands, covering sites in Solihull, Harborne, Droitwich, Belbroughton, and Broadway. The combined projects aim to strengthen the company’s regional footprint while supporting local employment through construction and supply networks.

Matt Vincent, Operation Director at Spitfire Homes, said: “Submitting these planning applications is an important milestone in our ongoing growth plans across the Midlands. Our proposals would deliver more than 500 high-quality new homes across the region, offering a diverse mix of properties tailored for first-time buyers, growing families, and downsizers seeking style and comfort without compromise.”

If approved, the Kislingbury scheme will contribute to housing supply in the East Midlands, aligning with continued demand for sustainable, design-led developments that support both communities and local economies.

Inflation comes in lower than forecast for September, standing unchanged from August

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Inflation comes in lower than forecast for September, standing unchanged from August
Inflation remained stubborn at 3.8% in the 12 months to September, unchanged from August, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). While this is below forecasts, with inflation expected to come in at 4%, it remains well above the Bank of England’s 2% target. On a monthly basis, CPI was unchanged in September 2025, as in September 2024. Transport made the largest upward contribution to the CPI rates; recreation and culture, and food and non-alcoholic beverages made the largest offsetting downward contributions. Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, came in at 3.5% in the 12 months to September, down from 3.6% in August and below forecasts.
Martin Sartorius, principal economist, CBI, said: “Inflation came in lower than expected in September, bringing some relief to hard-pressed households, though it remains well above the Bank of England’s 2% target. Price pressures should begin to slowly ease in the coming months, but we are unlikely to see a more substantial downshift in inflation until the first half of next year. “Today’s downside surprise raises the possibility that a rate cut by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee could be back on the table in November. While some MPC members may prefer to keep rates on hold given the recent uptick in inflation expectations, September’s softer reading could give the broader Committee greater confidence to reduce rates without risking further persistence in price pressures.”

East Midlands mayor displays regional potential to global investors

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East Midlands mayor displays regional potential to global investors
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has met with key investors this week to highlight the region’s growing economic opportunities and showcase the East Midlands as a prime destination for investment.
During a series of one-to-one meetings and roundtable discussions at the Regional Investment Summit , mayor Claire and officials from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) outlined the region’s ambitious growth plans, including a £2bn transport investment programme, a £160m Investment Zone, and the £38m annual East Midlands Investment Fund. Mayor Claire said: “The East Midlands is a region ready to deliver. From advanced manufacturing and clean energy to digital innovation and the visitor economy, we have the assets, talent, and infrastructure to support long-term growth. These discussions with investors are about turning potential into real opportunities for our communities and businesses.” The Mayor’s meetings also highlighted the region’s flagship projects, including Peak Cluster (one of the world’s largest carbon capture and storage projects, securing UK cement and lime industries and safeguarding thousands of jobs), Supercluster (anchored by the UK’s flagship STEP fusion prototype at West Burton, creating a globally significant clean energy and innovation hub), and Trent Arc (linking Derby, Nottingham, and East Midlands Parkway, delivering city centre regeneration, industrial hubs, and over 30,000 new homes). Mayor Claire said: “These discussions are about improving lives across the East Midlands. “Attracting new businesses, supporting the growth of local industries, and creating high-quality jobs will ensure that everyone in the East Midlands feels the benefit of economic growth. Investment into housing, skills, clean energy and infrastructure will make our region more connected, resilient, and prosperous. “This will give people better opportunities to live, work, and build a future here.” The Mayor will continue engaging with investors, ensuring that projects are aligned with the region’s East Midlands Growth Plan, which aims to strengthen communities across the East Midlands and deliver 60,000+ more people in work, 210,000 more people with skilled qualifications, 100,000+ homes built, £13bn added to the economy, £2bn+ investment in transport infrastructure, and 1GW additional clean community energy generation.

Derby training provider marks decade of growth with £2 million turnover

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Derby training provider marks decade of growth with £2 million turnover

Derby-based training firm Nine Dots Development has reached a £2 million annual turnover in its tenth year of operation. Founded in 2016 by Jordan Burke and James Davison, the company has grown from a £73,000 first-year turnover to working with global clients including BAE Systems, Fred Perry, Scania, and Associated Press.

The company employs 25 staff and a network of 50 consultants delivering management training, apprenticeships, and leadership development to organisations across the UK and overseas. Nine Dots is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute for Leadership and Management, and is rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

Its expansion has been driven by the continued demand for professional development and leadership training following the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy in 2017. The business has delivered programmes in markets including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the United States.

Nine Dots’ portfolio covers leadership, management, HR, and emotional intelligence training, with a focus on helping employers develop effective leaders and teams. The company’s founders aim to build on its international growth and strengthen partnerships with employers seeking to improve workforce capability and performance.

RSM UK makes Midlands director promotions

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RSM UK makes Midlands director promotions
Audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK has made four new director promotions in the Midlands region. The promotions include Franz Zaragoza and Erin Sims in risk and governance, and Chas Ruprai in deal services, all of whom are based in Birmingham, as well as Victoria Davies in audit and based in the firm’s Nottingham office. RSM’s newly appointed Midlands’ directors are among 31 promotions to director across the national firm, with over half of this year’s cohort starting their careers with RSM as trainees. The promotions span all areas of the firm, with audit promoting 12 directors, seven in tax and 12 in consulting. The newly promoted directors are located throughout the UK across 15 offices. Helen Brocklebank, RSM UK’s regional managing partner in the Midlands, said: “I’d like to congratulate our new directors in the Midlands and across the firm. Their promotions are testament to their hard work and talent, and they should all be extremely proud of reaching this huge milestone in their careers at RSM. “We’re committed to growing and developing our people from within, as well as providing an environment for local talent to thrive. I wish them all the very best as they step into their new roles and strengthen our Midlands team, while helping to shape the future of our firm.”

Bold new UK headquarters for global digital services provider

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Bold new UK headquarters for global digital services provider
Tasked with creating a cost-effective, future-ready HQ, Proici Commercial Interiors recently transformed an empty industrial unit into a vibrant flagship workspace of 29,000 ft² in just 40 weeks. The new headquarters in Nottinghamshire unites all teams under one roof and combines agile office space with a mini data centre, gym and commercial canteen, with a flexible, collaborative design. The project brief called for a workplace that would inspire creativity, foster connection, and adapt to the company’s evolving needs. Proici’s commercial design and fit-out expertise transformed an empty industrial shell into one that successfully balances open-plan energy with quiet focus areas, using modular layouts, acoustic zoning, and a cohesive brand-led interior scheme. At the heart of the building now is a striking split-level breakout hub — the social and cultural centre of the office. Accommodating over 100 people, it serves as both a canteen and informal workspace, encouraging collaboration and a strong sense of community. The addition of a mezzanine creates visual interest and openness, as well as further flexibility for meetings and events. As a result, staff engaging with external partners and customers are now enthusiastic about hosting them at the office to foster stronger business relationships, this is a notable shift from their previous preference to meet offsite. Industrial details, such as exposed roof trusses and raw finishes reference the building’s origins, while new windows now flood the entire unit with natural light – enhancing both wellbeing and productivity. Behind the scenes, Proici delivered robust IT infrastructure, secure access systems, and a fully equipped commercial kitchen, ensuring the HQ functions efficiently for staff and visitors alike. The new headquarters stands as a confident expression of the brand and of Proici’s capability to deliver modern, adaptable workplaces that unite people, drive innovation, and set the benchmark for clients’ future office design needs. Click here for the full case study – https://proici.co.uk/case-studies/global-digital-services-provider

Wright Vigar achieves Payroll Assurance accreditation from CIPP

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Wright Vigar achieves Payroll Assurance accreditation from CIPP
Wright Vigar, an independent regional chartered accountancy firm, has officially been reaccredited under the Payroll Assurance Scheme (PAS), the UK’s gold standard for payroll compliance, developed by the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) in partnership with HMRC. This prestigious accreditation recognises Wright Vigar’s commitment to delivering payroll services that meet the highest standards of accuracy, governance, and professional development. The assessment covers both operational processes and people management, ensuring clients benefit from secure, compliant, and expertly managed payroll support. “Payroll is one of the most sensitive and regulated areas of business finance,” said Helen Molloy, COO at Wright Vigar. “This accreditation gives our clients confidence that their payroll is not only compliant but proactively managed to reduce risk and improve efficiency.” The Payroll Assurance Scheme is designed to help organisations demonstrate best practice in payroll operations. Wright Vigar’s successful accreditation confirms that its systems are robust, its staff are well-trained, and its services are aligned with current UK legislation, including PAYE, RTI, auto-enrolment, and data protection requirements. This achievement reinforces Wright Vigar’s position as a trusted adviser to businesses across the region, offering a full suite of payroll services tailored to SMEs, family businesses, and growing enterprises.

Rolls-Royce outlines plans for new Derby facility

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Rolls-Royce outlines plans for new Derby facility

Rolls-Royce is planning a new manufacturing services building at its Sinfin A site in Derby as part of ongoing efforts to modernise its infrastructure.

The proposed two-storey structure would cover approximately 3,000 square metres and include manufacturing areas, offices, and welfare facilities such as a canteen and toilets. The design features a sloped roof up to 12.6 metres high, fitted with solar panels and rooflights to improve energy efficiency.

According to documents submitted to Derby City Council, the project aims to replace older infrastructure and improve operational performance across the site. Construction is expected to take around ten months, with no changes proposed to existing site access.

Rolls-Royce has asked the council to determine whether an environmental impact assessment is necessary before submitting a full planning application. A decision on that request is anticipated by early November.

The development would further strengthen Rolls-Royce’s long-term investment in its Derby operations, where it continues to upgrade facilities to meet modern health, safety, and environmental standards.

Atos invests £10m to boost East Midlands tech growth

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Atos invests £10m to boost East Midlands tech growth

Atos is strengthening its presence in the East Midlands with the launch of a new Digital Agentic Centre in Nottingham, part of a £10 million investment to advance the UK’s digital infrastructure.

The Nottingham facility will drive innovation in artificial intelligence and automation, developing technologies that enhance efficiency, reliability and productivity for public and private sector organisations. It forms a key part of Atos’ strategy to anchor more high-value digital work in the region, positioning the East Midlands as a growing hub for advanced tech capability.

Alongside the new centre, Atos will extend its graduate and apprenticeship programmes to create around 50 new roles by 2026. These will support the development of local expertise in AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing and data analytics, helping build a stronger regional workforce equipped for the next wave of digital transformation.

Michael Herron, Head of Atos UK&I, said, “Our new sovereign offerings will ensure our clients have a future-ready end-to-end IT estate under their control so that they can easily adapt to any regulatory or geopolitical changes. For businesses in the public, defence and critical national infrastructure sectors, the need for sovereign AI capabilities is mission-critical, and we’re proud to be working with them to make safe and reliable digital and AI development possible.

“As part of this, we are reimagining what an IT career pathway looks like in an age where humans and AI co-exist together. Our new early-career roles will give young people in the UK a multi-faceted career in the digital arena. Sovereignty, for us, includes nurturing the next generation of tech talent in the UK&I.”

Atos’ investment aligns with its wider national strategy to strengthen regional resilience, advance sovereign digital capabilities and build a sustainable pipeline of technology talent across the UK.

Heineken invests in Northamptonshire pub as part of wider UK upgrade

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Heineken invests in Northamptonshire pub as part of wider UK upgrade

The Five Bells in Bugbrooke, Northamptonshire, is undergoing a major refurbishment following a £400,000 investment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and local operators Bups Chaggar and Denis Gill. The redevelopment is expected to create 15 jobs and marks one of several regional projects under Heineken’s £40 million national pub estate investment for 2025.

Of the total, £3.1 million has been allocated to venues across the East Midlands. The Five Bells, closed since mid-2023, is scheduled to reopen in early December.

The project includes a full interior and exterior overhaul, with redesigned dining and bar areas, upgraded accessibility and facilities, and a new kitchen layout aimed at expanding the menu options. The building will feature new furnishings, lighting, and décor, while the exterior will be repainted and fitted with new signage and outdoor seating areas.

The pub will offer a varied food menu alongside traditional drinks, operating daily with extended food service hours through the week. The refurbishment aligns with Heineken’s broader strategy to modernise its UK pub portfolio and strengthen partnerships with local operators.

BGF prepares £500m institutional fundraise to expand UK investment base

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BGF prepares £500m institutional fundraise to expand UK investment base

BGF is preparing for its first external capital raise, seeking up to £500 million from institutional investors to broaden its funding beyond its founding banks—Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, and NatWest. The move marks a strategic shift as the firm aims to diversify its investor base and strengthen its capacity to finance small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK and Ireland.

The planned raise, expected in 2026, follows BGF’s commitment to invest more than £3 billion over the next five years. Investment bank Lazard has been appointed to advise on the process. The new funds would allow BGF to channel additional capital into growing companies, aligning with government efforts to attract long-term institutional investment through initiatives such as the Mansion House Accord.

Since its formation in 2011, BGF has invested over £4.7 billion in more than 600 businesses, creating around 27,000 jobs and contributing £7.1 billion in revenue growth. The firm reports a 21.4% internal rate of return since 2016, highlighting its performance in backing growth-stage companies through minority stakes.

BGF’s next phase signals an evolution in the UK’s growth capital landscape, as the firm adapts to increasing competition from private equity, family offices, and debt funds while maintaining its regional focus outside London and the South East. Recent exits include Brisant Secure, Fulfilmentcrowd, and Braidwater.

Latest corporate insolvency figures highlight ‘stable stress’ across the region

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Latest corporate insolvency figures highlight ‘stable stress’ across the region
Continuing high levels of corporate insolvencies in England and Wales indicate a sense of ‘stable stress’ across the local economy, with latest figures highlighting only a marginal decrease in numbers. This is according to the Midlands branch of the UK’s restructuring, turnaround and insolvency trade body R3 and comes on the back of new statistics published by the Insolvency Service which show that corporate insolvencies decreased by 2% in September to a total of 2,000 compared to the previous month. There was also a marginal fall in August of 1.7% against July’s total of 2,083. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “We may be seeing some small decreases in insolvency levels, but activity remains high, impacting heavily on businesses and households alike. “With the November budget around the corner, many business leaders are nervous about what lies ahead and are putting off making major recruitment or investment decisions. They will be hoping that the Chancellor introduces confidence building measures to encourage investment, recruitment and expansion rather than further increasing the tax burden and worsening cashflow problems. “Ongoing challenges such as higher energy and materials costs, cautious consumer demand and creditor pressure have combined with slower than anticipated reductions in the cost of borrowing to leave some businesses fighting hard to stay afloat. “This pressure is reflected in the latest Office for National Statistics data, which revealed that around one in six [17%] trading businesses reported having no cash reserves in late September 2025 – the highest proportion since the question was introduced in June 2020. “This is deeply concerning, as a lack of cash reserves leaves businesses particularly vulnerable to even small financial shocks, such as a bad debt or loss of a customer, challenges which they might previously have been able to weather. It suggests insolvency activity is likely to stay at the current level for some time. “R3’s message to businesses and individuals, therefore, remains the same: seek advice from a regulated professional at the first signs of financial distress. Taking action early gives you more time, more options and a greater chance of achieving a positive outcome.”

Major student development hits key milestone in Beeston

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Major student development hits key milestone in Beeston
A new student development in Beeston has moved a step closer to completion with a topping out ceremony hosted by developer Cassidy Group. Once completed, Beckton House, situated in Station Road in the town centre, will provide 419 studio apartments for students at Nottingham’s two universities. The five-storey block is currently under construction with contractor Winvic Construction, with the completion of the building’s structural frame marked with the traditional topping out ceremony featuring representatives from Broxtowe Borough Council and the developer’s consultancy team. The project is due to complete in August next year and will open its doors for the September 2026/27 academic year. Patric Cassidy, director at Cassidy Group Ltd, said: “Beckton House will be great not just for the students that will live here, but it will hugely benefit the surrounding area. Students will have first-class accommodation within what will be an EPC ‘A’ rated energy efficient building with great transport links right outside their front door, and it will boost the local retail economy due to an influx of customers keen to find out what Beeston has to offer. “Broxtowe Borough Council has been very supportive throughout this process, and the work of Winvic and our fantastic team of consultants mean that we are ahead of schedule which guarantees an early opening for the next academic year.” Accommodation will be managed by Fresh, which operates several other purpose-built student blocks in Nottingham. Internally, Beckton House will feature social areas for residents to meet friends or study outside of their room, plus facilities including a cinema room, a private dining kitchen, and a gym. Sam Scott, managing director at Fresh, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to mobilise and launch Beckton House. With excellent transport links to both universities and market-leading facilities, Beckton House is ideally positioned to be a valuable addition to student accommodation in the Beeston area. “Drawing on our extensive knowledge of the Nottingham market, we look forward to welcoming residents when the development opens in September.” Mark Jones, managing director for multi-room at Winvic, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate this key milestone at Beckton House with Cassidy Group and our project partners. The topping out marks significant progress on a development that showcases Winvic’s expertise in delivering high-quality, sustainable student accommodation in thriving university cities. “Beckton House will not only provide outstanding facilities for students but also contribute positively to the wider Beeston community. We’re proud to be working collaboratively with Cassidy Group to bring this forward safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards of quality.” Beckton House is one of three student accommodation schemes brought forward by Cassidy Group in the East Midlands, with the developer also behind new facilities on London Road and Arkwright Street in Nottingham’s city centre. The Beeston project was funded by Zorin Finance.

East Midlands innovation firms benefit from £80 million investment fund

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East Midlands innovation firms benefit from £80 million investment fund

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II has provided a major boost to the East Midlands’ business community, helping firms across manufacturing, medical technology and construction accelerate growth since its launch in February 2024.

Administered by the British Business Bank, the fund has deployed over £50 million in direct investment and attracted an additional £30 million in private sector backing. The result is more than 180 smaller businesses gaining access to vital finance across the Midlands, with a strong showing from East Midlands innovators.

Among the region’s recipients, University of Nottingham spin-out Forge Genetics secured £2 million to advance its gene editing research. Sleaford Building Services received £750,000 to fund expansion and increase capacity, while medical packaging specialist Shawpak in Derbyshire obtained £500,000 to upgrade its facilities and meet growing demand.

The investment has reinforced the East Midlands’ reputation for research-led innovation and agile manufacturing. Many of the businesses supported are developing technologies and processes with national and global potential.

Keira Shepperson, Senior Investment Director at the British Business Bank, said, “The East Midlands has a strong track record in innovation, as shown by the firms the Fund has been able to invest in. From cutting edge medical technologies to evolving manufacturing and construction firms, the region is pushing through and bringing new ways of working to life. The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is here to back that sense of ambition and entrepreneurial spirit. We look forward to continuing to support these firms and more as they gear up for 2026.”

Part of the Bank’s £1.6 billion Nations and Regions Investment Funds, the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II provides loans and equity investment ranging from £25,000 to £5 million through accredited regional fund managers. The initiative is designed to diversify finance options and strengthen the East Midlands’ role in the UK’s innovation economy.

Derbyshire firm helps preserve national icon

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Derbyshire firm helps preserve national icon
As the nation prepares to mark Trafalgar Day on 21st October, a Derbyshire engineering company is playing its part in preserving the very ship at the heart of the famous battle. Acres Engineering, based in Melbourne near Derby, has supplied its heavy-duty StrongHold Trestles to support HMS Victory’s massive masts and yards (spars) during vital conservation work at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Some of the spars measure up to 23 metres long and weigh up to 2.5 tonnes. The project, known as HMS Victory: The Big Repair, is the most significant conservation programme in the ship’s 250-year history. Despite the scale of the work, the vessel remains open to visitors, giving the public a rare opportunity to see heritage being preserved in real time. Stuart Sheldon, Lead Rigger on the project, said: “Acres’ willingness to explore options and provide the best value for money was very reassuring. The trestles have ensured the spars can be safely and efficiently inspected, and their aftercare has been excellent.” Acres Engineering also donated an additional set of trestles to further support the conservation work. Luke Parker, Managing Director of Acres Engineering, said: “It is an honour for our team to support the restoration of HMS Victory. To be part of preserving such a national icon — and to release this news as the country commemorates Trafalgar Day — makes us especially proud.” The announcement follows Acres Engineering’s recent visit to the Houses of Parliament for the Ada Lovelace Day reception, where the company added its voice to the call for greater diversity and opportunity in UK manufacturing.

Construction begins on new family contact centre in Worksop

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Construction begins on new family contact centre in Worksop
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has started works for a new purpose-built family contact centre in Worksop, providing vital support services for vulnerable children, young people, and families across the county. The energy-efficient facility is being designed, project, and cost managed by Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, and is expected to be complete by summer 2026. The new centre, which was procured under the SCAPE Regional Construction framework will offer a significantly improved setting for supervised contact visits, safeguarding and educational services, including private contact rooms, two conference rooms, kitchen facilities and a secure outdoor play area, creating a calm and welcoming environment for families and professionals. The development, which replaces an outdated bungalow accommodation building, will be a single storey steel frame structure, with external brick walls. Landscaping and car parking will also be included in the scheme. The building will host a number of features that reduce electricity demand from the grid and improve energy security for the Council. The building will feature 25 sq m of photovoltaic panelling to locally generate electricity, a high-performance building fabric and high efficiency mechanical and electrical plant, including air source heat pumps, contributing to Nottinghamshire County Council’s wider strategy of investing in sustainable, modern public service buildings that are cost efficient to run. Andy Sewards, group chairman at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are proud to be working alongside Arc Partnership and Nottinghamshire County Council on this vital project that will positively impact the lives of families across the county. “The new facility will not only provide a safe, secure, and comfortable space for children and families, but it’s also being constructed with energy-efficiency and long-term sustainability in mind. “As a local contractor, we are equally pleased to be providing social value initiatives within the community and employment and apprenticeship opportunities for young people, helping develop future talent in the local construction industry.” Councillor Mick Barton, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “Supporting the most vulnerable children, young people and families in our community is a key priority. This new space will provide essential services in a much better environment and the chance to meet with social workers in a welcoming and calm place to help put everyone more at ease. “The new, fit-for-purpose building with a secure play area is vital, and only a stone’s throw away from the current location. As the contact centre will use less energy because of the way it has been designed, we’ll save money on bills and this investment is also good news for the local supply chain, as there’ll be many contract opportunities to help get the building fully ready.”

North Lincolnshire positioned for major AI investment

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North Lincolnshire positioned for major AI investment

Northern Lincolnshire is being considered as a potential artificial intelligence growth zone, a move that could make it one of Europe’s largest data centre hubs. The proposed Northern Lincolnshire AI Growth Zone (NLAIGZ), led by North Lincolnshire Council and developer Greystoke, would include several large-scale AI data centres and attract over £20 billion in private investment.

If approved, the project is expected to create 15,650 jobs by 2029, including 14,000 in construction and 1,650 operational roles. The facilities would provide around 2.5 GW of computing capacity—nearly double that of the existing London cluster—and form part of the UK Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan.

Key locations under review include the A15 Elsham Wolds Industrial Estate and land near the A180 at South Killingholme. The Elsham site has drawn scrutiny from local water companies regarding flooding and supply concerns, though the developer has stated that water-efficient cooling systems will be used.

Officials say aligning AI and data infrastructure with the region’s offshore wind and carbon capture industries could help secure long-term energy resilience, encourage investment in clean power, and promote local use of Scunthorpe-produced steel. If designated an AI growth zone, North Lincolnshire would join national efforts to expand the UK’s digital infrastructure and regional economic development.

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