Ibstock appoints new chair

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Ibstock appoints new chair

Ibstock, a manufacturer of building products and solutions, has appointed Richard Akers as a non-executive director and chair designate.

Jonathan Nicholls will step down as chair and retire from the board on 15 May 2025. Jonathan joined Ibstock’s board as a non-executive director in 2015 and was appointed as chair in 2018.

Richard brings a wealth of leadership experience and sector insight to the role having spent his career in the property, house building and land transaction industries, including twenty years with Land Securities Group PLC where he was a senior executive, member of the board, and managing director of the retail portfolio.

He recently joined Miller Homes Limited as chair in January 2025, prior to which he was the chair of Redrow PLC until its merger with Barratt Developments PLC completed in October 2024. Richard spent nine years in non-executive director roles with Barratt Developments PLC and is currently the senior independent director at Shaftesbury Capital PLC.

He has also held non-executive roles at Unite Group PLC, EMAAR Malls in Dubai and the Battersea Power Station Development Company and was a fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Jonathan Nicholls said: “It has been a pleasure to be part of Ibstock’s board since its IPO in October 2015 and a privilege to have been chair since 2018. I would like to thank my non-executive colleagues on the board for their support, commitment and enthusiasm during my tenure.

“I look forward to working with Richard to ensure a smooth transition when he joins us in May. Finally, the success that Ibstock has achieved over the last few years is down to the excellent leadership of Joe Hudson our Chief Executive Officer ably supported by Chris McLeish, our Chief Financial Officer and I wish the business well for the future.”

Richard Akers said: “I am delighted to be joining a company with strong growth ambitions at such an important time for the building industry. I look forward to working with the board as well as Joe and the executive team as Ibstock continues to deliver on its current operational strategy.”

Joe Hudson, Group Chief Executive, said: “I would like to thank Jonathan for all his leadership and support over the last 9 years. His wisdom and counsel have helped Ibstock to navigate through challenging market conditions, as well as a significant investment programme. He has also been a real support to me personally.

“We are delighted to welcome Richard to Ibstock. He has strong experience as a chair and with our customer base which will be helpful as we capitalise on future recovery in our markets.”

Construction work completes at rejuvenated Glossop Halls

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Construction work completes at rejuvenated Glossop Halls
Work to re-open the rejuvenated Glossop Halls is now in its final stages as the High Peak Borough Council-led element of the construction work has now been completed. The Council is preparing the final paperwork to enable it to hand over the buildings to its chosen operating partner, so they can complete their fit out for a summer opening. The multi-million pound regeneration project will ensure these historic civic buildings remain at the heart of town life for generations to come. Council Leader, Councillor Anthony Mckeown, said: “We are delighted to have reached this stage. It has taken a little longer than we hoped due to the complexity and scale of the project – which grew from repairing the roof to the regeneration of the whole complex – but we now thrilled to be in the process of handing over to our new operator so that they can start their fit-out. “It’s an exciting time for the town. The investment in these buildings and the opportunities they offer for businesses and the community means they will remain at the heart of Glossop now and in the future.” There will be new business opportunities, including for creatives and entrepreneurs, as well as new food and drink, leisure and socialising spaces, and places for community use. Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, said: “It’s fantastic to have formally completed the construction works. Once we’ve completed the final paperwork, our new operator will be able to get on site and complete their preparations for opening. “I know they’ve got big plans which mirror the Council’s ambitions and the vision we have for these buildings which will, once again, see them buzzing with activity. It’s the biggest regeneration project in Glossop for decades and will be a game-changer for our town.”

Derelict cinema and former nightclub to be demolished for Long Eaton regeneration scheme

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Derelict cinema and former nightclub to be demolished for Long Eaton regeneration scheme
Long Eaton’s derelict Galaxy cinema is set to be demolished in April to make way for its redevelopment as part of the £25 million Town Deal. The former Stage One nightclub which stands next to it will also be demolished to make way for a wholesale regeneration of what is known as Galaxy Row. The demolitions will see new homes and commercial units built on the Derby Road site. The plan is for three business premises plus 16 flats and four townhouses. The council has partnered with Mypad and Tuntum for the development scheme. Chair of the Long Eaton Town Deal, Richard Ledger, said: “This marks a significant milestone in our Town Deal vision for Long Eaton. After considerable effort to secure these properties, we’re thrilled to see demolition begin. “This is the first step in transforming Galaxy Row into a vibrant hub of homes and businesses, and we’re committed to keeping the community informed every step of the way. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this redevelopment will have on Long Eaton.” The demolition work is expected to take around four months with construction work set to begin straight after.

Hulleys of Baslow to cease trading as new operators take over key routes

April Lara
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Hulleys of Baslow to cease trading as new operators take over key routes

Derbyshire bus operator Hulleys of Baslow will cease trading on Thursday, 27 March, after facing reliability issues and losing several council-funded routes.

Derbyshire County Council has secured replacement operators for key services, with Stagecoach Yorkshire taking over the 63 Chesterfield to Matlock route and Linburg Coach Travel running the 257 Sheffield to Bakewell service. The council had previously moved some routes to alternative providers to address performance concerns but could not prevent Hulleys’ closure.

Efforts are underway to maintain commercial routes, and local bus companies may offer employment opportunities to affected staff. Leonard Curtis is handling the company’s liquidation.

G F Tomlinson expands social value team to strengthen community impact

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G F Tomlinson expands social value team to strengthen community impact
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has expanded its social value team with the addition of Shelley Williamson as social value manager and Emma Morley as performance framework controller. As G F Tomlinson continues to strengthen its social value approach, both Shelley and Emma will play integral roles in shaping the future of the company’s community engagement and sustainability strategies. Their combined expertise will drive forward initiatives that align with evolving industry trends, including sustainable procurement, digital technologies, and skills development. Bringing 15 years of industry experience, Shelley takes on the role of social value manager, leading on all social value commitments, stakeholder engagement, and community-focused initiatives. Shelley’s expertise in developing and delivering social value strategies will further embed G F Tomlinson’s role as a responsible and community-driven contractor. Shelley said: “I am passionate about creating and delivering initiatives that leave a lasting legacy. From supporting career programmes with education providers to engaging with social enterprises, my focus is on ensuring we positively impact communities, employees, and stakeholders alike. Construction is a diverse and inclusive industry, and my goal is to inspire the next generation and break down barriers to employment.” With seven years of experience in the construction sector, Emma takes on the role of performance framework controller and will be responsible for tracking, analysing, and reporting on key performance indicators and social value initiatives across all projects. Her expertise in data analysis and attention to detail will ensure that the company continues to meet and exceed its social value targets, including local labour engagement and local spend. Emma said: “Working closely with the Framework team to refine performance metrics and drive data-driven decision-making is incredibly motivating. I am eager to contribute to the company’s ongoing success in delivering impactful social value outcomes.” Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to welcome Emma and Shelley to the team. Their expertise, passion, and dedication to social value will be instrumental in driving our initiatives forward. At G F Tomlinson, we are committed to creating positive, lasting change in the communities we serve, and strengthening our social value team is a significant step in cementing that commitment.”

Access Insurance expands with Ladbrook acquisition

April Lara
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Access Insurance expands with Ladbrook acquisition

Access Insurance has acquired Ladbrook Insurance, a Derbyshire-based specialist charity broker, strengthening its position in the UK charity insurance market. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition marks Access Insurance’s fourth in its ongoing expansion strategy. Now part of the Benefact Group, Access serves 18,000 clients, including charities, social enterprises, and voluntary organisations. The deal provides Access with a new base in Derbyshire, enhancing support for clients in the North.

Ladbrook CEO Tim Larden joins Access as sales and marketing director, bringing over 20 years of industry experience. The move is expected to support Access’s long-term growth strategy and its focus on risk management solutions for the third sector.

Work underway to transform site of former police station into extra care housing scheme

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Work underway to transform site of former police station into extra care housing scheme
The site of a former police station in the heart of Hucknall is set to become a new extra care housing scheme, with construction work well underway. The £15.9m scheme is being constructed on behalf of affordable extra care housing provider Preferred Homes Ltd by Midland-based Deeley Construction, and will see the creation of 73 apartments for affordable rent. The affordable extra care housing scheme will regenerate the site of Hucknall’s derelict former police station, which has now been demolished to make way for the new development that has been designed to provide a modern and comfortable living space for residents. When completed, it will comprise a three-storey and a four-storey building, with a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. The scheme will also feature communal space, including a lounge area, dining area, plant room, multi-purpose room and a bistro for the community and residents to use. Watnall Road is the second development which will be delivered by Deeley on behalf of Preferred Homes. The sustainable scheme will feature a rooftop photovoltaic system to provide renewable energy, air source heat pumps for each apartment and four electric vehicle charging points for residents. Chris Newman, Operations Director at Deeley Construction, said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Preferred Homes Ltd to deliver important affordable homes for people in Hucknall. “The development is only two-minutes from the historic market town centre, positioning it right at the heart of community in Hucknall. When completed it will see the regeneration of a brownfield site to provide high quality, comfortable and sustainable homes for residents.” Richard Frank, Property Director at Preferred Homes, said: “Hucknall marks our first development in the north midlands, and our second constructed by Deeley Construction. “We know this will be an invaluable asset for the community, so it is fantastic to get spades in the ground. “Deeley understands our ambition when it comes to constructing high quality extra care housing that supports the health and wellbeing of vulnerable older people, and we look forward to bringing that vision to fruition at Watnall Road.”

CEO takes on London Marathon for children’s hospice

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CEO takes on London Marathon for children’s hospice
Only a few years after breaking his hip, the CEO of an East Midlands car supermarket is taking on the TCS London Marathon to raise money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Michael Bell, CEO of AvailableCar Ltd, which is in Castle Donington and Sutton-in-Ashfield, is aiming to raise thousands of pounds when he takes on one of the world’s biggest marathons on Sunday 27 April. AvailableCar Ltd has supported Rainbows since 2008 and has raised over £1.4m in that time. For Michael (39), completing the TCS London Marathon will also be a personal challenge. In 2019, he had to retire from the event due to injury. “Firstly, to raise money for Rainbows is such an incredible privilege. And for me, the London Marathon is like a scratch that I have never itched. When I was running it in 2019, I started to get a niggle in my hip. Then I got pain and on mile 19, I heard a pop,” said Michael. “I was helped to first aid and was taken to A&E. I had a broken hip, which was caused by running and over training, and I had to have two operations. “This will be my first full marathon since I broke my hip, and I am a little nervous. But for me, to have a bit of pain for three or four hours, will be worth it to raise money for Rainbows. “I love supporting Rainbows. It is an amazing place and touches so many people across the whole of the East Midlands. “Rainbows is so encompassing, it isn’t just what they do for the babies, young people and children, it is about everything they do for the families, especially siblings. “Every bit of support Rainbows gives along the way is unbelievable. The care everyone gets and the experiences they are offered; it is absolutely magical, and families make memories that will last forever. “I wanted to give something back to the community and I thank everyone who is supporting me.” Neil Swift, Rainbows Supporter Experience Officer, added: “To recover from a broken hip and two surgeries to take on a marathon is really remarkable, and we are delighted to have Michael as part of Team Rainbows. “The London Marathon is a great event for our charity and this year, we have 14 people taking on the event and we are grateful for all of their support. Every penny they raise goes towards the care of more than 750 babies, children and young people wherever they need us – at the hospice, in hospital or at home. “We wish Michael and all of our runners the best of luck.” To sponsor Michael, visit  https://www.justgiving.com/page/michael-bell-2

Derby businessman’s family to honour his legacy by leading his company forward

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Derby businessman’s family to honour his legacy by leading his company forward
The family of a respected Derby businessman who died unexpectedly last year has pledged to preserve his legacy by taking the helm of the company he led for more than three decades. Andy Priestley started working for design, refurbishment and fit-out firm DSP (Interiors) in 1988 and took over the reins four years later, dedicating his entire career to the company until his sudden death aged 57 last year. Now Louisa, his wife of 35 years, has taken over as Managing Director, while daughter Olivia, 23, has become Marketing Director, with 20-year-old son Harrison undertaking an apprenticeship at the firm. The family, which also includes Harrison’s twin brother Mason, who is studying for a degree at Sheffield Hallam University, hope they will do Andy proud by continuing his legacy. Louisa, who has been part of the company for more than 20 years, said: “Losing Andy was a total shock. We had just returned from a bucket list trip to Scotland completing the NC-500. “We are all still very much grieving however, we know that he would want us to continue his legacy – DSP was his passion and the team here were his second family. “We owe it to him, to his team and to our customers to ensure DSP remains the leader in its field. His influence is still very much present in everything we do, and that won’t change.” DSP (Interiors) has worked with some of the biggest companies in the East Midlands including Rolls-Royce, Alston, SureScreen Diagnostics, Ward Recycling, Charterspace and KTM Motorsports. The firm, which provides bespoke designs and fit-outs, employs 12 members of staff and many have worked for the company for between 20 and 30 years. The family has spent the last few months putting transparent systems in place which are shared across the team and introducing a cloud-based CRM system to harness the skills and knowledge Andy and the team had. Olivia, a former Trent College pupil, has recently graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in Business and Spanish. She had always intended to join the family firm eventually, but had not expected it would be under such tragic circumstances. Olivia said: “I spend a lot of time each day asking myself what Dad would have done, and now I understand the operation so well there are many things I would love to be able to chat about with him. “I know Dad would be incredibly proud of us all and not a day goes past where we don’t talk about him. I think looking after – and growing – DSP is an appropriate tribute to him. “We’ll never stop missing him, but I hope we can continue to honour his legacy by carrying forward his vision, values and passion for what he built. His influence is felt in everything we do and we are committed to making him proud every single day.”

Headline speakers revealed for Leicestershire Innovation Festival launch

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Headline speakers revealed for Leicestershire Innovation Festival launch
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL and the founders of AI+ will be the headline speakers at the launch of Leicestershire Innovation Festival 2025. They will kick off the seventh annual festival focussed on small business productivity and growth in Leicester and Leicestershire. More than half of available places for next week’s funded launch event have already been reserved. Dr Kotecha, who founded and leads both RandalSun Capital and Randal Charitable Foundation, is a major investor in regional innovation. He will talk on the need for increased regional productivity. Dr Kotecha chaired the Innovation Board, which launched the festival in 2018, and is the founder and former Chair of Morningside Pharmaceuticals, an international manufacturing firm he built and grew in Loughborough. Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, Founder, RandalSun Capital and Randal Charitable Foundation, said: “The accelerating speed of development in digital technology presents a fast-changing landscape of opportunities and challenges for SMEs. “Technology also offers immense potential for small businesses to make accessible small steps which can transform productivity and profitability. “As we have seen with the emerging Industrial Strategy, AI and digital are being promoted as a means of moving the East Midlands and UK economies forward.” Steve Barradell and Guy Boyle, directors of Loughborough-based Institute, will follow Dr Kotecha with a discussion on emerging digital tech and its implications for small business. Guy Boyle, Creative Director, Institute, said: “There’s a lot of tactical noise about AI currently out there but very little of the big picture stuff. “Why, for example, is industry using digital technology yet asking for the same skills it did 100 years ago? Why are businesses designing new processes that reflect an analogue world? “We’re interested in increasing knowledge among SMEs so they can ask better questions of those selling them current digital solutions.” Steve and Guy will also reveal details of Phase 2 of their AI+ Innovation for Business Course. The funded 12-week course for SMEs returns later this year in partnership with Loughborough College. Supported by Innovate UK, Phase 1 of the programme introduced dozens of local businesses to the potential of emerging digital technologies. The launch event of Leicestershire Innovation Festival runs from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the National Space Centre in Leicester on Monday 31 March.

Inflation sees February fall

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Inflation sees February fall
UK inflation dropped in February, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), inflation came in at 2.8% in the 12 months to February 2025, down from 3% reported in January, and below forecasts of 2.9%. The largest downward contribution to the change came from clothing. Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, stood at 3.5% in the 12 months to February, down from 3.7% in January. Martin Sartorius, Principal Economist, CBI, said: “Inflation remained firm in February, broadly in line with the Bank of England’s expectations. Looking ahead, price pressures are set to rise again in April, driven by higher energy costs, regulated price increases, and the passthrough of Autumn Budget measures. “We continue to expect that the Monetary Policy Committee will cut interest rates at a quarterly pace over 2025, in line with its ‘gradual and careful’ forward guidance. This should help ease the strain of high borrowing costs on businesses and households.”

Nottingham’s cutting-edge X-ray tech takes centre stage with MP visit

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Nottingham’s cutting-edge X-ray tech takes centre stage with MP visit

Nottingham-based HALO X-ray Technologies demonstrated its pioneering X-ray technology to local MP, Lilian Greenwood, during her recent visit to the company. HALO X-ray Technologies showcased how its technology is set to transform global aviation and border security. The MP for Nottingham South was shown how HALO is spearheading revolutionary X-ray diffraction solutions that promise faster, more accurate, and more secure screening for passengers and cargo worldwide.

The visit, organised by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), showcased how private equity and venture capital investments are helping to fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen Nottingham’s position as a hub for cutting-edge technology. HALO X-ray Technologies is one of 22 private capital-backed businesses headquartered in Nottingham South, contributing to the region’s economic growth and global technological leadership.

At the heart of HALO’s innovation is its proprietary X-ray diffraction technology, designed to automatically identify materials in real time. This capability significantly enhances security screening in airports and border crossings by reducing false alarms, expediting passenger flow, and increasing threat detection accuracy. The technology has also attracted interest from the medical sector for advanced diagnostic imaging applications, and has applications for industrial inspection.

HALO systems are currently installed at Copenhagen Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as part of an initiative to prove operational performance in a live environment and establish the value proposition for X-ray diffraction at the checkpoint and for the wider aviation security community.

HALO is currently working on UK, EU and US government funded programmes that have helped develop core IP and establish new product opportunities. HALO has to date secured ~£16M funding through various government programmes. This engagement with government and regulators has been key to the continued success of the business and technology.

HALO has also been backed by a consortium of UK government-backed funds consisting of  the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, both managed by Future Planet Capital), and the UK Government’s Future Fund, alongside Agilent Technologies, Inc, a global leader in chemical and life science analysis. The investment support has enabled the company to accelerate R&D and advance commercial partnerships in the security sectors. By supporting HALO, these investors are championing UK-led innovation in aviation security, border protection, and advanced materials detection, helping to drive economic growth and job creation in Nottingham and beyond.

Following her visit, Lilian Greenwood MP commented: “It was fantastic to meet with the team at HALO X-ray Technologies and see first-hand the groundbreaking work taking place right here in Nottingham. This is a great example of how innovation and private investment are driving high-tech job creation and positioning the UK as a leader in aviation and border security solutions.”

East Midlands mid-market businesses show resilience amid rising costs

April Lara
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East Midlands mid-market businesses show resilience amid rising costs

Mid-sized businesses in the East Midlands are showing increased confidence despite rising employment costs, according to Grant Thornton UK LLP’s latest Business Outlook Tracker. The report highlights a shift in hiring strategies, with 50% of businesses now planning to reduce or freeze hiring, up from 43% in December 2024. Many also review pay increases, bonuses, and employee benefits to manage costs.

Despite these challenges, 73% of mid-sized firms in the region are optimistic about revenue growth over the next six months, up from 65% in December. Profit expectations have also risen, with 72% forecasting an increase, compared to 43% previously.

In contrast, larger corporations across the UK are becoming less optimistic, with a 10-percentage-point drop in confidence about the UK economy and declines in expectations for funding, revenue growth, and profit increases.

Grant Thornton’s Matt Buckingham noted that East Midlands businesses are adapting quickly, leveraging a mix of global corporates and agile mid-market firms across manufacturing, energy, tourism, and professional services. With the Spring Statement approaching, businesses remain focused on strategic planning to sustain growth despite economic pressures.

Businesses must prepare for single-use vape ban from 1 June

April Lara
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Businesses must prepare for single-use vape ban from 1 June

From 1 June, businesses in Derbyshire will be prohibited from selling, supplying, or possessing single-use vapes for sale, both online and in-store. The ban applies to all disposable vapes, regardless of nicotine content, and will be enforced by Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards team, excluding Derby city.

Violators face a £200 fine per offence, with repeat breaches risking unlimited fines, up to two years in prison, or both. Authorities will also have the power to seize illegal stock.

The move aims to curb environmental damage caused by vape waste and reduce fire hazards from improper disposal. Businesses are urged to review their stock and ensure compliance to avoid penalties.

Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

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Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

Grand Central has notified Network Rail of its plans to introduce a direct rail service between Lincolnshire and London, connecting Cleethorpes, Grimsby, Habrough, and Scunthorpe to King’s Cross. The company will submit a formal application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), and pending regulatory approval, services are expected to launch by late 2026.

The proposed route would add over 775,000 new seats annually, improving regional connectivity and optimising underused rail capacity. Trains will integrate with Grand Central’s existing services via Doncaster, offering more travel options for passengers.

Managing Director Paul Hutchings highlighted the significance of restoring direct rail links to Cleethorpes, last available in 1992. The service aims to enhance economic ties between Lincolnshire and London, benefiting passengers and businesses.

The initiative follows London North Eastern Railway’s failed attempt to establish a similar route in 2023. Grand Central’s expansion could reshape regional transport and support economic growth in underserved areas if approved.

Avant Homes secures approval for £45m North Lincolnshire development

April Lara
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Avant Homes secures approval for £45m North Lincolnshire development

Avant Homes has received planning approval for a £45 million residential development in Yaddlethorpe, North Lincolnshire. The 20.1-acre site, named Moorwell Meadows, will feature 200 energy-efficient homes with two to five bedrooms.

Construction is set to begin in May, and the first homes will be available for sale in October. A show home is expected to open in November, and initial residents are scheduled to move in by December. The project includes a £170,000 community contribution towards improvements to Riddings Community Centre.

Delivered by Avant Homes North Yorkshire, the development aligns with the company’s expansion strategy in Lincolnshire. Avant Homes operates across the Midlands, northern England, and Scotland, focusing on multi-tenure housing for private, rental, and affordable sectors.

Cash injection helps Leicester supported housing provider upgrade homes

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Cash injection helps Leicester supported housing provider upgrade homes
Advance Housing and Support has been awarded £980,000 by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to improve the energy efficiency of its homes. The funding comes from the Warm Homes Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (Wave 3) and will help boost the work Advance is already doing to upgrade all its homes to at least EPC band C by 2030. The full amount of funding will be matched by Advance to install energy efficiency measures such as insulation, low carbon heating systems and new windows and doors to its homes. While helping to reduce Advance’s carbon footprint, the measures will also deliver benefits to customers through lower energy bills and more comfortable homes. Chief Executive, Julie Layton, said: “This funding will support our ambitions to make sure all our properties end up meeting quality standards for energy efficiency, reducing costs and enhancing living conditions for customers.”

New tourism strategy launched for Blaby District to boost local economy

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New tourism strategy launched for Blaby District to boost local economy
Blaby District Council has launched a new tourism strategy to boost the local economy, supporting businesses and backing jobs. The Tourism Growth Plan has been developed with input from partners and local businesses. Building on the success of the previous plan, it sets out ambitions for an increase in visitor numbers and the local economy by 10% up to 2030. Figures from 2023 show tourism added £216.84m to the District’s economy and supported more than 2,000 local jobs. A key strength has been cooperation with local outlets through the Blaby District Tourism Partnership. Working with Visit Leicester has also provided wider opportunities. These alliances remain a priority in the Plan. Other priorities include: supporting firms facing skills or recruitment issues, using waterways, green spaces and cycling and walking routes to draw in visitors, focusing on accessible spaces, and promoting and boosting sustainable tourism. Marc Greenwood, Executive Director for Place at Blaby District Council, said: “Boosting tourism enhances the reputation of Blaby District as an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest in. “By raising our profile as an inspiring destination we can support businesses, safeguard jobs and grow the economy. A healthy tourism sector helps our District thrive. It creates rich memories for visitors and improves local prosperity, a benefit for all residents.” Jo Dempster, Chair of Blaby District Tourism Partnership and Director of Sales and Marketing at Leicester Marriott Hotel, said: “Over the last five years the Tourism Partnership has grown from strength to strength. “It has supported the Growth Plan and contributed to its significant achievements. We will build on this foundation for the new Growth Plan. By continuing to work together we can increase visitor numbers, creating a vibrant visitor economy.”

Significant milestone for development of £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop

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Significant milestone for development of £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop
A ground-breaking ceremony has marked a significant milestone in the creation of an £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop. Expected to be completed by early 2026, Bassetlaw District Council has awarded the building contract to Tilbury Douglas to transform the long vacant site on Newgate Street, which is owned by the council and will be leased to the NHS and operated by Newgate Medical Group. Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh said: “This is a significant milestone in transforming a vacant site into a new Health and Wellbeing Hub that will benefit residents and patients across the area. “A great deal of work has taken place to get us to this stage where construction is getting underway, and we look forward to working with our NHS partners to bring about this exciting development.” The new hub, next to the Newgate Medical Practice, will include 24 consulting rooms, three treatment rooms and additional space for admin and support services. Paul Ellenor, Regional Director for Yorkshire & North East at Tilbury Douglas, said: “Breaking ground on the Newgate Street Health & Wellbeing Hub is an exciting milestone. “This project will not only provide high-quality healthcare facilities for the local community but also create opportunities for apprentices and trainees, reinforcing our commitment to developing the next generation of construction professionals.”

Journeo achieves revenue and proft growth for fifth year running

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Journeo achieves revenue and proft growth for fifth year running

Journeo, an Ashby-de-la-Zouch-based provider of information systems and technical services to transport operators and local authorities, has achieved growth in sales, profit before tax and recurring revenues for a fifth year running.

According to final results for the year ended 31 December 2024, revenue at the firm increased 8% to £49.6m, while profit before tax grew 33% to £5m.

Russ Singleton, CEO of Journeo plc, said: “Journeo has delivered another strong set of results, achieving growth in sales, profit before tax and recurring revenues for a fifth year running. The increasing adoption of our core IP is delivering a growing sales pipeline based on technology created and implemented by the operating companies within the Group.

“In addition to our financial performance, we have made significant operational improvements. We have formed the Journeo Design Centre to create new world-class products and made strategic investments for our next growth phase with new appointments to our Senior Leadership Team.

“We have also made steps forward in our ESG and carbon reporting and are progressing with a number of potential complementary acquisitions.

“We move forward into 2025 with confidence that we will continue to deliver stakeholder value as the Group benefits from Government-backed initiatives for the more sustainable, safer and more secure communities and transport of the future.”

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