Solar farm approved near M1 services in Northamptonshire

April Lara
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Solar farm approved near M1 services in Northamptonshire

A new solar development has been approved for an 18-acre site near the M1 Watford Gap services, positioning it close to key transport infrastructure and existing warehousing.

The site, located near the A5 corridor and adjacent to operational wind turbines, will host over 15,000 solar panels. Once operational, the array is expected to generate up to 6 megawatts of renewable electricity, sufficient to supply approximately 2,100 homes.

West Northamptonshire Council’s strategic planning committee approved the proposal without objections. The visual impact was deemed minimal due to the surrounding industrial landscape.

The site, previously used for livestock grazing, will continue to support sheep alongside the solar infrastructure, integrating renewable energy generation with agricultural use.

The project adds to the region’s growing portfolio of onshore renewable energy assets, contributing to the UK’s broader decarbonisation targets and domestic energy production.

Electrical engineering giant moves into new 100,000 sq ft facility at Fairham Business Park

Tess Egginton
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Electrical engineering giant moves into new 100,000 sq ft facility at Fairham Business Park
Fairham Business Park in Nottingham, developed by Clowes Developments, is welcoming a major new occupier: global technology leader ABB. The 100,000 sq ft building, designed by IMA Architects and built by TanRo, will accommodate ABB’s growing demand for Furse earthing and lightning protection solutions. It incorporates advanced technology, flexible automation, R&D and testing capabilities, and digital systems to increase production capacity, improve efficiency, and support sustainable manufacturing. More than 100 employees will relocate to the new site from ABB’s existing Nottingham premises, continuing the company’s deep local heritage—Furse was founded in Nottingham in 1893, and ABB has operated in the city for over a century. ABB’s new facility is built to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards, featuring photovoltaic rooftop panels, electric vehicle charging points, energy-efficient systems, and waste-reduction processes. James Richards, development director at Clowes Developments and Fairham Business Park, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome ABB to Fairham Business Park. Their investment validates the site’s exceptional location, diverse occupier mix, and top-tier industrial units. As we launch the next phase of development, we look forward to delivering even more opportunities.” Tim Gilbertson, FHP Property Consultants, added: “This is a landmark deal for Nottingham. ABB needed a first-class, future-ready facility close to the city but outside the parking levy. Fairham offered the ideal solution. We’re proud to have supported ABB’s continued growth in the region.”

17,000 East Midlands jobs at risk as family businesses respond to inheritance tax change

Tess Egginton
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17,000 East Midlands jobs at risk as family businesses respond to inheritance tax change
More than 17,000 jobs could go across the East Midlands as the owners of family businesses and farms respond to changes in inheritance tax announced in last year’s Budget. New research from Family Business UK (FBUK), supported by 32 trade associations and conducted by CBI Economics, reveals the full impact of changes to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) on the East Midlands economy. It shows that 17,183 FTE jobs could be lost across the region, a reduction of more than 8.5% driven by the decision of business owners to cut investment by more than 16%. The cuts will be felt directly in businesses and farms, and across their supply chains reducing activity and turnover. The research suggests that across the East Midlands businesses affected by BPR could see turnover fall by 10.2% and those affected by APR by 11.7% – putting the region amongst the worst affected across the UK. Overall, the loss of jobs and investment could cut economic activity (GVA) across the East Midlands by more than £1 billion (£1.068bn). Neil Davy, CEO, Family Business UK, said: “This latest research shows just how far-reaching, and immediate, the impact of these policy changes is. No industry, sector, region or parliamentary constituency will be immune. “In construction, services, manufacturing, tourism, transport, agriculture and horticulture, family business owners are responding to the changes to BPR and APR by tearing up long-term plans to invest in their businesses, their employees and the communities in which they are based. “While parts of government are looking at how to boost regional growth and create opportunities in every sector of the economy, this research shows how changes to BPR and APR will achieve the exact opposite. “Within our diverse and rapidly changing economy, family business owners have been building Britain for generations. If they are to continue to do so, with confidence in the future, the Government must urgently reconsider these policy changes.” Steve Rigby, chair of FBUK and co-CEO of Midlands-based Rigby Group, said: “Without doubt these tax changes will hit UK businesses hard, particularly in the Midlands. We are at the eleventh hour, but it is still not too late for the Government to reconsider solutions that would generate tax without threatening the future growth prospects of family businesses. “More than half of family-owned businesses have reported halting or cancelling investments, with many now contemplating the sale of their firms to mitigate the financial burden. “Business in the Midlands are already facing many challenges and it is no wonder it is one of the worst affected by these changes. We hope that the Government will act on Family Business UK’s important findings.” Family businesses play a vital role in the economy accounting for nine out of every ten private sector firms. BPR and APR are critical to family businesses. The changes announced in the Budget mean that from April 2026 family business owners will have to pay 20% inheritance tax on their business and agricultural assets when they die. Since the Government announced the changes, family business owners have taken immediate steps to mitigate the cost of the policy change. At a UK level, the research shows:
  • Over 60% of businesses anticipate reducing investment by more than 20%, with average investment declines of 15.8% (APR) and 15.5% (BPR).
  • Around a quarter (23%) have reduced headcount due to BPR and APR changes.
  • Business restructuring is a growing concern: Around 1 in 5 are considering downsizing under both BPR and APR, with up to 12% contemplating a sale.
  • Reduced community support: 15% (BPR) and 12% (APR) of businesses have cut charitable donations or community activities, which will impact vital local initiatives.
Across the UK, by 2030, the changes to BPR and APR could lead to:
  • 208,500 jobs losses from family businesses and across their supply chains
  • £14.86 billion less economic activity (GVA) – almost equivalent to the value of UK motor vehicle manufacturing (£15.7bn GVA)
  • a £1.87 billion net fiscal loss to government
Family businesses operate in every sector of the economy and the latest research demonstrates the widespread impact of the change to BPR and APR. Sectors expected to see the steepest cuts to investment include Accommodation and Food Services (-17%), Construction (-17%), Agriculture and Horticulture (-17%), Manufacturing (-16%), Real Estate activities (-16%), Retail and Wholesale; repair of motor vehicles (-15%). For those affected by APR, investment is likely to fall most in agriculture and horticulture, with average cuts of around 17%, Accommodation and Food Services (-16%) and Real Estate activities (-16%).

Silverstone Soccer sees splendid support

Tess Egginton
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Silverstone Soccer sees splendid support
With the event drawing closer, all team spaces are now filled for the sixth annual Silverstone Soccer charity event, in aid of Cynthia Spencer Hospice. The popular five-a-side footballer fundraiser, hosted by Northampton-based company Silverstone Leasing, will be held at Daventry Town Football Club on Sunday 22nd June. Ten determined teams of footballers will don their boots to compete for the much-coveted winners title in the tournament pitch battles, while spectators can enjoy family fun including Scott’s Soapy Suds charity car wash, kids bouncy castle, display cars and refreshments. The Silverstone Leasing team are hoping for a record-breaking year, after already raising thousands of pounds for Cynthia Spencer Hospice through the sporting event, as well as numerous other fundraisers. And it has kicked off in the right way, with leading businesses in the town publicly supporting the tournament, either by entering a team or through vital sponsorship. This year’s four corporate sponsors are Acorn Analytical Services, KCI Complete Office Solutions, Wilson Browne Solicitors, and BMW Wollaston. Organiser of the event and Silverstone Leasing team manager Ryan Bishop said: “I am delighted at the response from our community for our sixth Silverstone Soccer event. It has become a really impactful and well received fundraiser which makes such a huge difference to the hospice, a cause really close to all our hearts that does the most incredible work in our county. “Thanks to our sponsors and to Daventry Town Football Club for helping to make the event happen, we are very grateful of your invaluable support. “I hope the local community will come along on the day, to cheer on our teams and join in with the family fun on offer. You can help make our event the biggest and best we’ve ever achieved.”

Nottingham College opens £250k green skills training hub

April Lara
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Nottingham College opens £250k green skills training hub

Nottingham College has launched a £250,000 Green Skills Centre at its Basford campus, aiming to address regional skills shortages in construction and renewable energy. The facility, located within the Nottingham Sustainability Enterprise Centre, features live training bays for technologies such as solar PV, battery storage, air source heat pumps, EV charging systems, and solar thermal solutions.

The new centre expands the college’s existing green skills training provision, complementing its Gas Centre and EV technology courses, which are delivered across its campuses. It is expected to support the UK’s wider net-zero transition by preparing learners with practical experience in low-carbon technologies.

Developed with input from industry partners including Quantum Training, the centre is part of a broader strategy to meet rising demand for green talent across sectors such as construction, engineering, and energy. It also aligns with government housing targets and carbon reduction commitments.

The investment supports a growing need for workforce development as employers seek candidates equipped with green skills in both new builds and retrofit projects. The college’s initiative positions it as a regional contributor to the upskilling efforts needed for the UK’s low-carbon transition.

Infrastructure funding targets Lincolnshire school and healthcare sites

April Lara
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Infrastructure funding targets Lincolnshire school and healthcare sites

A total of 18 schools across Lincolnshire will undergo repairs and upgrades as part of a government infrastructure initiative set to begin this summer and continue through to April next year. The funding is drawn from a wider £40 million allocation earmarked for schools throughout the East Midlands.

Projects include essential fire safety upgrades at Spalding Grammar School to prevent potential closure, as well as asbestos removal at Westgate Academy in Lincoln. Other recipients include Boston Grammar School, The King’s School in Grantham, and Branston Community Academy, reflecting a geographic spread of improvements across both primary and secondary institutions.

This round of investment signals continued public sector capital expenditure on essential facilities, with a focus on safety compliance and modernisation. For B2B service providers, particularly those in construction, engineering, compliance, and building materials, the pipeline of work offers partnership opportunities within government-backed programmes.

In parallel, the Pilgrim Hospital in Boston has been allocated £7 million for upgrades to its electrical systems and fire safety. Additionally, Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust will receive £750,000 for similar improvements across its estate, supporting the resilience of healthcare infrastructure.

These investments suggest a sustained demand for skilled contractors, compliance consultants, and building systems suppliers across the education and healthcare sectors.

New homes approved for key Northamptonshire development

April Lara
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New homes approved for key Northamptonshire development

West Northamptonshire Council has approved the construction of 278 new homes as part of the second phase of the Norwood Farm development, a large-scale housing project on the outskirts of Northampton.

The homes will be built between Harpole and Duston, within a site divided by New Sandy Lane. This phase comprises a mix of one- to four-bedroom units, with 139 units designated as affordable housing, which is significantly above the required provision.

Norwood Farm is a primary strategic site slated to deliver a total of 1,900 homes. In addition to housing, the development will include retail space, a school, and public green areas. Each property in the upcoming phase will consist of private parking, with additional visitor spaces planned.

The planning decision marks the first major development approved since Reform UK took leadership of the council following local elections.

The scheme forms part of the region’s broader push to meet housing demand and stimulate long-term economic growth. It is also expected to draw further interest from contractors and suppliers in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Phenna Group goes down under to snap up Civiltest

Tess Egginton
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Phenna Group goes down under to snap up Civiltest
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies, has made its 9th deal of 2025, acquiring its 15th business in the APAC region – Civiltest. The deal is complementary to Phenna’s acquisition of Australian Soil and Concrete Testing (ASCT) in November 2023, further strengthening its geotechnical and construction materials testing capabilities across Australia. Civiltest is a geotechnical engineering, consulting, and soil testing business that has been operating for over 30 years. Headquartered in Melbourne, it provides services throughout Victoria and Western Australia to the mining, infrastructure, commercial, and residential industries. Grant Gibbs, CEO of Civiltest, said: “We are very excited to be joining Phenna Group. We believe that Phenna provides the right partner to support our future growth aspirations. “Over the past three decades, we have built a strong business and feel that Phenna provides the right cultural fit to continue that growth. The engagement with the Phenna team has been very positive, and we look forward to working with Brett and his team.” Brett Coleman, divisional MD Asia at Phenna Group, said: “I am excited to welcome Grant and the team to Phenna Group. Over the past 30 years, Civiltest has built an enviable reputation for providing services and solutions to its customers. “Alongside ASCT, which we welcomed into the Group in late 2023, Civiltest further enhances our specialist geotechnical and materials testing offering across Australia. I look forward to working with Grant and his team to continue their exciting growth.” Phil Marshall, CEO of Phenna Group, added: “I am very pleased to welcome Civiltest to Phenna Group. Their experienced team and technical capability support and expand our fast-growing operations in the region. “Combined with the expertise of ASCT, we are building a powerful platform to serve the infrastructure and construction sectors across Australia. We look forward to supporting Grant and his team and seeing them continue their growth journey within Phenna Group.” Phenna Group were advised by RSM Melbourne and Squire Patton Boggs. Civiltest were advised by Shepard Webster & O’Neill and Carroll Goldsmith Lawyers.

Midlands identified as fraud hotspot

Tess Egginton
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Midlands identified as fraud hotspot
New data has identified the Midlands as a top fraud hotspot, with the region ranking as the UK’s third most prevalent for fraudulent activity by total value. Fraud totalling £24 million in value was reported in the region during 2024, according to BDO’s latest FraudTrack survey. This total includes a case against a Worcester-based supervisor, alleging around 4,000 fraudulent furlough claims totalling £7 million. Such false claims and overpayments ranked as the second largest granular fraud type by value nationally, totalling £60 million of reported frauds across the UK in 2024. Only London and the South East, and the North West, recorded higher levels of reported fraud value than the Midlands in 2024. Nationwide, money laundering was the largest overall type of fraud and economic crime by value, with the average value of individual cases jumping 10-fold versus the previous year. BDO’s research found that money laundering cases totalled £337 million, representing 61% of the total 2024 reported value of fraud and economic crime. Overall, the value of reported fraud and economic crime in the UK fell 76% compared to 2023 amid a 63% drop in high-value fraud cases. The fall in fraud values broadly follows the five-year downward trend in reported fraud. While money laundering represented the highest number of frauds by value, ‘non-corporate fraud’ such as phishing scams and identity theft were the most common fraud type by number, representing 41% of fraud cases reported in 2024. Commenting on the latest report, Ian Bennington, partner and national lead for governance, risk and compliance services, said: “While there are some signs of optimism in our data – notably the decline in overall reported fraud values on a national scale – it’s important that we identify regional hotspots to develop more effective fraud prevention and detection strategies. “The latest edition of our FraudTrack survey highlights that fraud is not evenly distributed across the UK, with the Midlands coming out as the third most prevalent region for fraudulent activity. “By better understanding the dynamics and propensity of fraudulent activities in the region, we can help businesses become better prepared in the face of evolving threats. Indeed, regional fraud trends are something businesses should pay particularly close attention to given that, from September this year, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) introduces a new corporate criminal offence for failing to prevent fraud.” The failure to prevent fraud offence to be introduced under ECCTA is designed to incentivise large organisations to step up their fraud prevention strategies by holding organisations criminally responsible for failing to prevent fraud committed by their employees or associates for the organisation’s benefit. The BDO Fraud Survey 2024 found that 78% of business had begun preparing for the legislation, with 43% reporting an increase in fraud awareness. Sat Plaha, partner and head of regional forensic services, continued: “It’s encouraging to see organisations taking ECCTA seriously and enhancing their fraud risk management strategies accordingly. However, there are still many businesses that are underprepared and will need to take urgent action to ensure they are compliant.”

East Midlands leads UK business confidence in May

Tess Egginton
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East Midlands leads UK business confidence in May
Business confidence in the East Midlands was the highest of any UK nation or region in May, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in the region reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 29 points at 67%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up 31 points to 66%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 66% (vs. 36% in April). A net balance of 44% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up six points on last month. Looking ahead to the next six months, East Midlands businesses identified their top target areas for growth as entering new markets (61%), evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products and services (50%) and investing in their team, for example through training (47%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall, UK business confidence increased 11 points in May to 50% – its highest level since August 2024. Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects strengthened six points to 56%, while their confidence in the wider economy also climbed 16 points to 44%. The North East (65%) was the second-most confident UK nation or region in May. Sector insights Construction firms’ confidence rose to a nine-month high of 56%, while those in the service sector reported a one-year high of 54%. Manufacturing confidence also rose by two points to 40%. However, retail confidence fell by five points to 40%, the lowest level since January this year. Dave Atkinson, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds, said: “It’s fantastic to see local confidence grow, to the extent that the East Midlands is now leading the country. “We’ll continue to support local firms as they work to translate this outlook into action and long-term growth – whether that’s through advice, insight or lending.”
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