The Chesterfield Canal, a key part of the town’s industrial heritage, is being transformed into a thriving corridor for business and leisure. Originally constructed to transport coal, iron, and stone, the canal’s restoration is set to support a wide range of new opportunities for local businesses, residents, and visitors.
A recent master plan aims to complete the final 8.5 miles of the canal, making the full 46-mile stretch navigable again. This initiative is more than a historical restoration; it’s a forward-thinking development with a focus on economic growth. The canal will become a hub for outdoor activities, such as cycling, walking, and paddle sports, while also creating new spaces for businesses, cafés, and shops. With 18 hubs identified along the route, each with its unique character, the plan aims to offer something for everyone, whether for leisure, business, or community engagement.
In particular, the Staveley Canal Basin is being reimagined with new business spaces and recreational facilities, offering a perfect setting for cafés and shops. The regeneration is expected to generate significant economic benefits, with £250 million projected in visitor spending and thousands of jobs to be supported across the region. This project positions the canal as a key player in boosting local economies, while also enhancing biodiversity and providing a space for future generations to thrive.
Wates, Stepnell, Morgan Sindall, Kier and BAM have partnered with the newly formed Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) as Gold Corporate Partners, in a move that signals growing momentum behind a sector-wide push for collaboration, innovation and improved delivery standards.
The five firms are committed to supporting CCBP’s mission to tackle long-standing issues in the industry, including supply chain instability, skills shortages, and the need for stronger, more collaborative relationships between clients and delivery teams. As founding partners, they will contribute their knowledge and expertise to help shape the Centre’s future direction.
The centre is focused on closing the gap between academia and practice by facilitating meaningful collaboration through its academic Advisory Boards and Corporate Partner network. This unique partnership ensures feedback and research flows both ways to encourage tangible improvements in project delivery, sustainability and sector culture.
Robbie Blackhurst, chair of the Centre for Construction Best Practice, said: “At CCBP, we believe innovation and best practice in the built environment can only happen through collaboration. The commitment from BAM, Kier, Wates, Morgan Sindall, and Stepnell shows they share that vision.
“With major government investment underway and urgent challenges around skills, net zero and delivery capability, we need joined up and research-led action. CCBP connects industry and academia to address these issues head on, not through a talking shop, but by driving practical change through research and collaboration.
“It’s encouraging to see companies who normally compete working together for the benefit of the wider industry.”
Stephen Beechey, group public sector director at Wates Group, said: “Improving how we deliver the built environment requires more than technical solutions – it takes genuine collaboration, shared learning, and a long-term view of value.
“That’s why we’re pleased to support the Centre for Construction Best Practice. Its focus on bridging industry and academia aligns with our belief that thriving places are created when expertise is shared, and delivery is reimagined.”
Rebecca Boundy, managing director for clients and markets at Kier, added: “We joined CCBP because we believe in the value of bringing together industry expertise and academic research to drive meaningful change.
“Working alongside other contractors and researchers, we will create practical solutions which improve how we deliver projects. It’s about combining knowledge, technology, and collaboration to raise standards and create lasting impact.
“We’re excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities this partnership will bring—not just for Kier, but for the wider industry.”
Adrian Blackie, pre-construction director at BAM echoed this point, commenting: “As a corporate partner for the Centre for Construction Best Practice our ambition is to collaborate with industry partners and academia to drive best practice, promote innovation, and make our vision possible.”
CCBP recently hosted its first roundtable, where partner organisations agreed a focus on improving the UK’s construction delivery model. Key concerns raised included a lack of early contractor engagement, inconsistent accountability, and poor risk allocation, all of which can lead to programme delays and cost overruns.
The Centre will work to promote earlier collaboration between clients, designers and contractors, with an emphasis on role-based competency frameworks, transparent risk sharing, and quality-led procurement strategies.
Steffan Speer, technical director, Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “At Morgan Sindall Construction, we’re always seeking better ways to deliver. To create real, lasting value for our customers and communities. My role allows me to work across the business to embed best practice and explore innovation wherever it can drive positive change – whether through technology, quality, or collaboration.
“That’s why becoming a corporate partner of CCBP made sense. It connects us with like-minded businesses who are equally focused on improving how we design and build – not only in terms of performance, but in purpose. We want to be part of something that challenges the status quo, shares learning openly, and accelerates change and innovation across our industry.
“This partnership is an opportunity to shape the future of construction in a more conscious, efficient and impactful way. That’s something I’m proud to support, and something I believe will benefit the entire built environment.”
Tom Sewell, regional director of Stepnell, added: “We’re proud to align ourselves with an organisation that shares our ambition to shape a more conscious, forward-thinking built environment. This partnership offers valuable opportunities to collaborate with like-minded peers, contribute to meaningful research, and help influence the future of policy.”
With backing from its Gold Corporate Partners, the Centre will now press ahead with its research agenda and sector engagement programme. This will include the publication of government whitepapers, industry-wide working groups, and events that bring together practitioners and academics to address real world challenges and shape practical solutions that can be adopted across the supply chain.
Property and construction leaders from across the region will descend on Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on Thursday 2nd October for East Midlands Business Link’s 10th Bricks Awards.
The prestigious annual event recognises development projects, businesses and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also showcase the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
With nominations open until Friday 15th August, and 10 categories available to enter, ensure to take this opportunity to shine a light on your projects and team, reward their hard work, and boost morale.
One of this year’s categories is Most Active Agent, which can be entered here. The winner of this category will be the estate agents / property consultants who have had the biggest impact on the commercial property sector over the last 12 months, whether that be in deals done, quality of any given deal, or excellent customer service.
It’s completely free to submit a nomination and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony.
Last year the award was won by Rigby & Co, with FHP Property Consultants and Salloway Property Consultants runners up. Russell Rigby, managing director at Rigby & Co, said: “It is a real thrill and boost to be awarded the Most Active Agent of the Year award at the 2024 Bricks! The ceremony, and the award, generated a great deal of PR / media profile, which was very very helpful, and it also served as a great motivational boost to the team at Rigby & Co. I would encourage firms to enter and have a go!”
Russell also thanked Donna Hill and her team at BH PR & Communications for assisting with the business’s nomination. Russell added: “Donna writes our award nominations and has an incredible track record!”
Submit your nominations for Most Active Agenthere before entries close on Friday 15th August.Guests network at the East Midlands Bricks Awards
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October,at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands.
Other award categories open for entry include: Responsible Business of the Year, Developer of the Year, Sustainable Development of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Residential Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here.
The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 will also receive agrand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm)
Where: Derek Randall Suite,Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham
Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands
Tickets: Available hereDress code: Standard business attire
Thanks to our sponsors:
Workers at a Derbyshire packaging company say they are facing a summer of uncertainty after meetings with bosses hit a stalemate.
139 members of staff at DS Smith Clay Cross face redundancy after being told that the Pilsley Road factory is one of five sites earmarked for closure by the end of the year.
DS Smith was acquired by International Paper earlier this year with the American firm stating that they had no plans to close any UK sites. However, the company released a statement last month saying the move was “to improve efficiencies and to respond to the evolving needs of our customers in what are tough trading conditions for the industry.”
Workers at DS Smith Clay Cross, which has employed local people for more than 60 years, have met with International Paper representatives, but there appears to be further confusion over the company’s decision to close the factory, with contrasting information communicated to staff.
John Smith, who has worked for DS Smith for more 19 years, said: “We have been told on several occasions how well we have been performing, contributing to the local economy and praised for raising money for local schools and charities.
“However, following two meetings with International Paper representatives and a visit from our local MP – who fully backed our campaign to keep DS Smith Clay Cross open – we are no clearer over the future of the site.
“We have been told that the decision to close Clay Cross was because of lack of work throughout group. If that’s the case why not ask for voluntary redundancies throughout group rather than the brutality of shutting down a whole factory?”
International Paper initially stated that DS Smith Packaging, prior to the takeover, were the ones whose decision it was to close the Clay Cross site. And now they’re saying it was a decision made by International Paper.
“We really have no idea what is going on and, the worry for us, is that International Paper don’t appear to know either.”
John Smith went on to say that he believes the workers have been ‘hoodwinked’ and that they were led to believe that DS Smith Clay Cross was profitable.
He said: “We are not fools; we know that a business has to be profitable to be viable, but we are. We are hitting record numbers and new work is continuing to come in.
“DS Smith Clay Cross has consistently performed well, and so the decision to shut the factory is questionable. We have an excellent reputation within the industry, and an impeccable health and safety record.
“There are still so many questions that need answering – and I fear we may never know the decision behind International Paper’s decision to choose DS Smith Clay Cross as one of the five sites it plans to close at the end of the year.”
There has been suggestions that International Paper plan to sell the Clay Cross site to housebuilders, but this has been rebuffed by bosses.
Smith added: “We have generations of families who work here and, during Covid, we were key workers who produced the packaging for products on supermarket shelves.
“There are young people here who have young families, and for them this news is such a blow. They feel let down.
“We are a loyal workforce, and we want answers from International Paper over the future of the Clay Cross site.
“DS Smith contributes massively to the local economy, and it will be devastating if the factory shuts. We are going to continue to do everything in our power to keep DS Smith Clay Cross open.”
International Paper said it expected the proposals would be implemented by the end of this calendar year. The consultation period is ongoing.
GMB Union has described the closures as ‘brutal’. Matt Roberts, GMB national officer, said: “The loyal DS Smith workforce were reassured throughout the takeover that it would be a positive step.
“But brutal closures of multiple sites and savage job cuts at others so soon into the new ownership are way beyond their worst fears.
“This cruel move is a huge shock for these workers, their families and their communities – not to mention a disaster for this strategically important industry.”
C&C Insurance Brokers has launched its newest regional office in Nottingham, marking the company’s ninth site. The new location will be led by Luke Oprych, a seasoned professional with over 21 years of experience in the insurance industry. Previously working at Momentum, Partners&, and CGI, Luke brings a wealth of expertise to the role, aiming to strengthen C&C’s presence in the East Midlands and across the East of England.
The Nottingham office is set to cater to clients in sectors such as transport, haulage, construction, and commercial enterprises. While based in Nottingham, Luke plans to extend C&C’s services to clients nationwide, recognising that strong client relationships and trust transcend regional boundaries.
Luke Oprych is known for his hands-on approach, prioritising client needs and offering bespoke solutions, from securing better premiums to enhancing protection levels. His leadership vision is inspired by the success of C&C’s other regional offices, particularly C&C Leeds, which has seen rapid growth under Tom’s leadership.
The new office highlights C&C’s commitment to fostering an environment where employees can thrive, with over 40% of staff having been with the company for more than five years. Luke, who values a transparent, growth-oriented workplace, believes that C&C’s collaborative culture will be key to the Nottingham office’s success.
In addition to his work, Luke enjoys playing football and has recently joined a veterans’ team, though he admits his last match left him “booted around the park.”
C&C’s expansion into Nottingham underscores the company’s ambitious growth plans, with Luke Oprych leading the charge to deliver tailored, client-focused insurance solutions across the UK.
On 4th July, business representatives gathered for a roundtable discussion on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) at emh Group’s Leicester office. Organised by East Midlands Chamber and its strategic partner emh Group, the event focused on sharing best practices and addressing key challenges within EDI, such as concerns over ‘getting it wrong,’ balancing free speech, and determining what to include in company policies.
The roundtable followed the release of a regional report on EDI in businesses, which revealed that while 70% of firms in the East Midlands have an EDI policy, one-third still fear making mistakes. The report, which advocates for 2025 to be a ‘year of action,’ highlights the benefits of an inclusive environment and the ongoing hurdles in achieving full engagement with EDI. While most businesses recognise the importance of inclusion, fear of making errors remains a significant barrier for many. A portion of businesses also believe that EDI policies offer little to no benefits.
The roundtable allowed businesses to share successful strategies and discuss ways forward. These insights will inform future policies, regional initiatives, and government recommendations to support firms in improving EDI engagement.
As businesses face evolving challenges, collaboration in EDI is seen as crucial in driving regional productivity and fostering inclusive environments.
Full planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of the Grey Friars site in Leicester’s Old Town.
It allows the restoration and conversion of two Grade II listed buildings and one non-designated heritage asset into 62 residential apartments and a commercial space.
The development will provide a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, bringing new life to three empty historic buildings.
A new extension has been designed to blend in with the current roof, ensuring the building’s main appearance from the front remains largely unchanged, while modern materials make a clear distinction between the historic structure and the new addition.
The Grey Friars area of Leicester is recognised as the burial site of King Richard III, whose remains were discovered beneath a nearby car park in 2012, marking one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 21st century.
Keshiv Sudera, managing director of Design Studio Architects, said: “This is more than a housing project — it’s a legacy scheme for Leicester. Grey Friars holds immense historic value, but like many heritage sites, it’s been under pressure from vacancy and neglect.
“We’re honoured to breathe new life into this location, delivering thoughtfully designed homes and restoring its relevance in our modern city. This development reflects our commitment to architecture that respects the past while shaping a more vibrant urban future.”
Construction is expected to begin later this year.
The Access Group, a Loughborough-based provider of business management software, has acquired MY Compliance Management, complementing its compliance and workforce learning capabilities.
The acquisition expands Access Learning’s position as a digital learning solutions provider, now serving over 3,000 global customers across multiple sectors.
Founded in 2015, MY Compliance Management is a SaaS provider of cloud-based compliance software, offering a suite of modules and applications.
Elliot Gowans, general manager of Access Learning, said: “The acquisition of MY Compliance Management represents an important milestone in our growth strategy. This innovative platform creates powerful synergies with our existing learning solutions, addressing the complete compliance lifecycle – from risk identification and assessment through training delivery to ongoing compliance verification.
“Our customers gain access to a compliance and learning ecosystem that simplifies regulatory adherence and provides the confidence and tools necessary to navigate increasingly complex compliance landscapes. This acquisition underscores our commitment to delivering comprehensive, tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of our expanding global client base.”
Chris Fuller, founder of MY Compliance Management, added: “Joining The Access Group represents an exciting evolution for our business and customers. We’ve been consistently impressed by the Access Group’s product portfolio and their commitment to innovation. Our customers will benefit from a roadmap of enhanced product capabilities, more integrated user experiences, and access to cutting-edge AI functionality.”
Elliot Gowans concluded: “This strategic acquisition not only enhances our product capabilities but also expands our position in the global compliance software sector. We are delighted to welcome MY Compliance Management’s customers, partners, and team members to the Access Group family, and we look forward to supporting their continued success through our expanded solution portfolio.”
Build-to-rent provider, Sigma Capital Group, has acquired four new sites with a gross development cost (GDC) of £100m, which will deliver 415 new homes through its partnership with Vistry Group.
When completed the new developments will be wholly owned by Sigma Capital as well as being leased and managed by their internal Simple Life Team.
The four sites include Top Wighay Farm (East Midlands) which will deliver 153 units, Ibstock, St. Helens (North West) comprising 120 units, Sutton Road, Maidstone (South East) with 87 units and Womersley Rd, Knottingley (Yorkshire) with 55 units. The homes will be built by Vistry Group as part of their ongoing partnership with Sigma Capital Group.
Graham Barnet, CEO of Sigma Capital, said: “We recently celebrated a decade in single-family build-to-rent and this latest round of acquisitions shows that we are still consistently innovating and adding to our growing portfolio.
“With these four new sites, we’re not only expanding our footprint across key regions, but also enhancing the quality of the homes we deliver, working with our trusted partners. Our current pipeline of opportunity now sits at over £5bn GDC throughout the UK, confirming our position as the leading single-family housing provider in the country.
“As demand for high-quality family rental housing continues to grow, we’re proud to play a leading role in supporting housing delivery, offering a professionally managed, secure solution for our customers.”
Stephen Teagle, chief executive, partnerships and regeneration, Vistry Group, said: “We’re delighted to see this further extension of our long-standing partnership with Sigma Capital to deliver high-quality, professionally managed rental homes across the UK.
“These new developments reflect our shared commitment to accelerating housing delivery through diverse tenures, meeting local needs, and supporting the Government’s housing ambitions. Together, we’re creating thriving professionally managed communities with homes people are proud to live in.”
Sills & Betteridge LLP has appointed Melanie Morton as their new Head of Employment Law. Melanie succeeds Stephen Britton, who has transitioned into a Consultancy role with the firm, as part of a phased step back from full-time practice.
Melanie who joins as a Partner, supports businesses of all sizes and sectors, charities, public sector bodies and individuals on the full range of employment matters. Her work includes strategic HR advice, large-scale HR project delivery, severance negotiations, complex grievance procedures, TUPE matters, and employment litigation. She also has a keen interest in delivering bespoke employment law training, helping clients stay ahead of legislative changes and minimise legal risk.
Melanie is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and has been recognised as a Rising Star by The Legal 500 for her excellence and innovation in the field.
Stephen Britton, who previously led the team, assumed the role of Consultant on 1st June 2025. In this capacity, he will continue to support the department by focusing on business development and ensuring a smooth transition of client relationships to Melanie and the wider team. He has served as a fee-paid Employment Judge since 2003 and continues to hold this office in the Midlands West Region.
Senior Partner Karen Bower-Brown said: “I am delighted to welcome Melanie into this leadership role. Her expertise in the field and commitment to client service make her the ideal successor to Stephen, who has guided the department with integrity and skill for many years. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for our Employment Law team.”
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