G F Tomlinson selects Treetops Hospice as charity partner
Contractor G F Tomlinson has partnered with Treetops Hospice as the company’s chosen charity for 2025.
The partnership marks the continuation of a valued relationship, with the contractor having supported the hospice through various initiatives in previous years, following the Local Communities Partnership Programme back in 2021.
The programme was launched in conjunction with partners Arc Partnership – which is a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, as well as Perfect Circle to support communities in the Midlands with an impactful community project on a pro bono basis and G F Tomlinson provided ongoing support and construction-based assistance for the end-of-life care charity – as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to social, economic and environmental benefits in the local communities.
Treetops Hospice provides compassionate care and support for adults with life-limiting conditions, and their families, across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The charity’s vital services include emotional and therapeutic support, end-of-life care, and wellbeing initiatives.
As part of its commitment to supporting this local charity, G F Tomlinson has been an integral contributor to Treetops’ annual Treecycling scheme.
This initiative allows households to recycle their real Christmas trees while raising funds for the hospice. For two consecutive years, G F Tomlinson has donated vans, drivers, and volunteers to facilitate the campaign. The collected donations directly support Treetops’ services, and the partnership ensures the continued success of the scheme.
In addition to Treecycling, G F Tomlinson has provided pro bono support by assessing and advising on crucial refurbishment projects at the hospice. The team worked closely with Treetops to determine detailed costings for repurposing a spa room into a therapy room and updating their Cheetham Centre.
This support has been instrumental in enabling the hospice to apply for funding for these essential upgrades, ensuring a high standard of care and facilities for its beneficiaries.
The contractor plans to continue its support of the end-of-life charity over 2025, with a series of planned activities and events to raise its profile and much-needed funds for vital support work in the community.
Adrian Grocock, managing director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to announce Treetops Hospice as our chosen charity for 2025. The work they do to support individuals and families during difficult times is truly inspiring and we are proud to continue our partnership.”
Natalie Godrich, relationship manager, community engagement at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful to G F Tomlinson for their ongoing support. Their contributions to our Treecycling scheme and expertise in refurbishment projects has been invaluable. Partnerships like this help us provide the best possible care to those who rely on our services.”
Weightmans opens new Nottingham office to grow Midlands operations
Weightmans has opened a new office in Nottingham as part of its strategy to expand its presence across the Midlands. The office will serve as a regional hub alongside the firm’s existing locations in Birmingham and Leicester.
Two corporate partners, Freya Summers and Mallory Coxe, have joined from Wright Hassall to strengthen the firm’s corporate practice in the region. Equity Partner Jane Price will lead the Nottingham office, working with the new partners to develop the team and client offerings.
The Nottingham office is located at Cubo, Standard Court, close to Nottingham Castle. The move is intended to increase the firm’s access to local talent and support growth in priority sectors, including Healthcare, Public Bodies, Owner-Managed Businesses, and Private Clients.
This expansion extends Weightmans’ geographical footprint across the Midlands and reinforces its position as one of the region’s leading law firms, with a focus on corporate services and regional business development.
IMA’s Tasawar Rahim qualifies as an architect
IMA Architects’ Tasawar Rahim has successfully qualified as an architect, marking the culmination of years of dedicated study and professional development.
Tasawar has completed his final examinations and is now registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), as a fully qualified architect. His achievement represents the successful completion of a rigorous pathway that combines academic study, practice-based experience and professional assessment.
Tasawar first joined IMA in 2022 as a Part 2 architectural assistant, but his journey has seen him study at three institutions. He gained a BA Hons in Architecture at the Kent School of Architecture and Planning, completed his Master of Architecture at the Manchester School of Architecture prior to joining IMA, then undertook Part 3 at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University whilst working at IMA.
Tas is the second member of the IMA team to qualify as an architect this year, following director Joe Travers who completed his RIBA qualification in June.
Speaking about the achievement, Ben Hall, managing director of IMA Architects, said: “We are incredibly proud of Tas and the dedication he has shown in reaching this important milestone.
“Qualifying as an Architect requires a great deal of hard work and persistence, and Tas has balanced this brilliantly with delivering high-quality work for our clients. Following Joe’s qualification earlier this year, it is fantastic to see another member of our team achieve success, and it underlines the strength and ambition of the people who make up IMA.”
Tas has played an important role in a number of high-profile industrial and commercial projects during his time at IMA. His work has spanned design development, planning applications, and client liaison, building a strong foundation of experience that he will now carry forward as a qualified architect.
Tasawar said: “I am extremely proud to have achieved my Part 3 and become an Architect. It has been a long journey with many challenges along the way, but also a hugely rewarding experience.
“Balancing my studies with project work at IMA has given me invaluable skills and confidence, and I am grateful for the support of my colleagues throughout. Qualifying as an Architect has been a personal ambition for many years and I am excited to take this next step in my career.”
Work completes on theatre transformation for Sutton
Work is complete on a new venue for theatre, cinema and live music in Sutton.
Sutton Community Academy has been handed the keys to Cornerstone Theatre, following a 15-month programme of work.
Ashfield District Council oversaw the project to transform the old theatre into a vibrant events space, with the works undertaken by building contractor Miller Knight.
The project was funded through the £6.27m Future High Streets Fund secured by the Council and is central to its ongoing work to revitalise Sutton town centre and to develop the evening economy.
Cornerstone will open to the public in March next year with residents and visitors able to enjoy professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights. A number of test performances are being held as the college builds expertise and resources to manage the theatre.
Students at the college will also use the facility for their rehearsals and performances.
Cllr Matthew Relf, executive lead for growth, regeneration, and local planning, said: “It is fantastic to see another of our regeneration projects reaching completion. Access to great arts and culture is such an important part of a thriving community that is often overlooked, so we are very proud to be able to bring more to Ashfield.
“An exciting programme of events is taking shape with something for everyone, from community dance through to large music acts, serious drama through to stand-up comedy. It will be a space welcoming shows from our community through to hosting national touring shows. With great local parking and access to great public transport this is yet another great facility within easy reach of all in Ashfield and surrounding areas.
“This is yet another part of our plan to reinvent our town centres as places to not only shop but to live, work, study and play.”
Liz Barrett OBE DL, principal of ATTFE College, said: “Everyone is incredibly grateful for the fantastic collaboration that has taken place to create Cornerstone Theatre. We are looking forward to ensuring it rapidly becomes another beating heart within the community of Ashfield for residents and people further afield to enjoy.”
Work on transforming the theatre has included new dressing rooms and a green room, toilets – including a changing places room – foyer and box office.
The auditorium has been completely refurbished with new flooring, ceiling, acoustic wall treatments and doors. It has a retractable seating system and specialist lighting.
New masterplan to be created for the future development of Swadlincote town centre
A new Masterplan for the future development of Swadlincote town centre is to be created. South Derbyshire District Council has appointed experts BDP to lead the project.
Trends such as the growth in online shopping, increase in home working and expansion of leisure activities are all changing the way people use town centres.
The Masterplan will cover the whole of the town centre, with a particular focus on the local authority land ownership at the western end of the centre. Within this area there is a concentration of ageing public buildings, in particular Green Bank Leisure Centre and the Civic Offices.
BDP, supported by AspinallVerdi, will be undertaking a programme of work during 2025, including seeking the views of members of the public, businesses and property owners during the Autumn.
Dr Justin Ives, chief executive of South Derbyshire District Council, said: “Swadlincote Town Centre is an incredibly important part of our District, providing a hub for local residents and visitors alike. We host many community events within the town centre, support local businesses and also celebrate the heritage of the area, with popular landmarks such as Sharpe’s Pottery Museum.
“A Town Centre Masterplan will help us to preserve the best of what the town centre already offers, while looking to the future of what it could be, and how we could make meaningful improvements.
“Over the last few years, the District Council has undertaken lots of improvements to the town centre, including refurbishing the market square and public toilets, creating the new Midland Road car park, improving shopfronts, and supporting numerous events – now we are keen to hear what the public and businesses would like to see next.”
Stephen Marshall, architect director, BDP, added: “This is a really exciting opportunity to help shape the next chapter for Swadlincote’s town centre. We will be considering the town centre as a whole, with a focus on creating a new vision for the ‘Civic Site’, which is currently home to the leisure centre and council offices.
“We will help to reimagine this important piece of land, creating new spaces and uses that connect with the high street, welcome the community, and attract new life and investment. We will be working closely with the council, local people, and partners to deliver a design that’s ambitious, achievable, and brings vibrancy and prosperity to the town.”
Stanton Cross to gain 60 new homes after appeal approval
Plans for 60 homes at Stanton Cross, near Wellingborough, have been approved on appeal, allowing the demolition of existing farm buildings to make way for the development.
The project forms part of a wider 3,650-home scheme in the area. North Northamptonshire Council’s planning committee initially rejected the proposal in March 2024, citing concerns over infrastructure and affordable housing provision, despite planning officers recommending approval.
The government’s Planning Inspectorate overturned the committee’s decision, ruling that the project could proceed. The developer, Grace Homes, will provide financial contributions under a section 106 agreement, covering education, libraries, sports facilities, and local healthcare services.
Planning guidance adopted for Derby Station Quarter redevelopment
Derby City Council has formally adopted new Interim Planning Guidance (IPG) for a new quarter around the city’s main train station.
The proposed Station Quarter will create a sustainable urban community, and a transport hub fit for the 21st Century.
Adopting the IPG paves the way for the Council to bid for funding to deliver what would be a major scheme at one of the city’s main gateways for visitors.
Derby City Council is currently working on its new Local Plan, so the IPG document will set the direction for the redevelopment of the area in the meantime. This will ensure a coordinated approach to any planning applications in the area.
At the heart of the proposals is the restoration of historic buildings, allowing the delivery of new and improved spaces for hospitality, meeting up, and entertainment. Coupled with this is the construction of up to 1,500 new city centre homes.
Councillor Shiraz Khan, cabinet member for housing, strategic planning and regulatory service, said: “The IPG document sets the direction of travel for planning policy in the station quarter, one of the most exciting, developments planned for our city. We know how important it is that any development here is done right, and this guidance will help to ensure any work is done appropriately and in keeping with the heritage of the area.”
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, strategy and policy, added: “Adopting this IPG document is a significant step in the Station Quarter project. With this guidance, we will now be able to begin seeking funding to develop the plans further.
“As one of the main gateways to our city for millions every year, it’s crucial that the area around Derby Railway Station offers an attractive and welcoming environment. These plans will create a vibrant and thriving hub for living, working, and leisure that can serve as a catalyst for wider growth in the city.”
Final designs revealed for Ollerton Town Centre regeneration
Newark and Sherwood District Council, in partnership with Ollerton & Boughton Town Council, is inviting residents and stakeholders to attend a public drop-in event to view the final designs for the proposed regeneration of Ollerton Town Centre.
Attendees are being welcomed to visit at any time during the session to meet the project team, ask questions, and explore the refined plans ahead of the formal planning application submission later this year. The drop-in event will take place at Ollerton and Boughton Town Hall on Thursday 11th September, between 3pm and 6pm.
The final designs include a range of features aimed at revitalising the town centre and enhancing its role as a hub for public services, leisure, and community activity.
Key elements of the proposed development include: a three-screen cinema, café, retail and office spaces, a public sector hub, three terraced houses on Sherwood Drive, a new town centre ‘heart’ featuring open space and seating, dedicated space for events and markets, and a north-south pedestrian boulevard connecting Forest Road and Rufford Avenue.
Councillor Claire Penny, portfolio holder for sustainable economic development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “This drop-in event is a vital opportunity for residents to see how their input has helped shape the future of Ollerton Town Centre.
“We are incredibly proud of the collaborative work that has gone into refining these plans, and we believe the final designs reflect a shared vision for a town centre that is welcoming, functional, and full of potential.
“The regeneration will not only enhance the physical environment but also strengthen the social and economic fabric of Ollerton. Together with Ollerton & Boughton Town Council, we’ve worked closely to ensure the plans reflect local priorities and aspirations.
“Their insight and involvement have been key throughout the process. We encourage everyone to come along, speak with the project team, ask questions and be part of this exciting journey.”
Chinese restaurant site transformed into children’s day nursery
A new 81-place children’s day nursery has opened on the site of a former Chinese restaurant in Hilton, with Lots for Tots Childcare welcoming its first flurry of children this month (September) to the Eggington Road nursery.
MHL Commercial created a brand-new nursery space for pre-school children in the area – transforming the 0.42-acre site where the Mandarin restaurant used to be.
Simon Moore, director at Midbrook Buildings, said: “From the moment we got involved with the site, we knew that it had such great potential. We designed and constructed the building and worked with Lots for Tots Derbyshire to create a stunning place for their children.
“This building is now a valuable community asset to the village of Hilton, and it was a real pleasure to work hard to get the everything ready for when it opens in September.”
Beth Wheatley, director of Lots for Tots Childcare, said: “I am so proud of our new building and the incredible team of staff we have in place. I’m really looking forward to welcoming our first families through the door this September — exciting times are certainly ahead.
“I’m excited about the future and about growing a space where children, their families, and our staff can truly thrive together. I’d also like to say how truly grateful I am to everyone who has helped bring this vision to life. We’ve received such wonderful support already, and it means the world.”
Commercial property consultants, OMEETO, completed the letting of the new business in Hilton, after the site was acquired by Derby’s MHL Commercial.
Chris Wright, OMEETO director, said: “This has been a really exciting project to be involved in. The team are enormously passionate about what they do, and they have created the perfect space for children to learn.”
Nottingham Business Park sees multiple office transactions
Nottingham Business Park has recorded three recent office transactions at Ash Tree Court over the past four months. H7 Ash Tree Court, a 2,522 sq ft office suite let to JLA Ltd, was the latest investment sale, achieving a Net Initial Yield of 8.2% following a strategic price adjustment.
Earlier activity includes G6 Ash Tree Court, a 2,103 sq ft office let to children’s charity When You Wish Upon a Star Ltd, selected for its accessible location and transport links. H2 and H3 Ash Tree Court, comprising 3,809 sq ft and let to Primary Integrated Community Services Ltd, were sold off-market to an investor client seeking office property.
Ash Tree Court consists of two terraces with 14 self-contained, two-storey office suites. The estate provides extensive car parking and is positioned 0.5 miles from Junction 26 of the M1, with access to NET tram stops and local bus services.
The three transactions highlight strong demand for well-connected out-of-town office space with modern facilities and convenient transport links. The deals reflect ongoing investor and occupier interest in Nottingham’s suburban office market, supporting rental and capital value growth within the park.
