Rula Developments acquires 39-acre site in Bingham for new business park

April Lara
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Rula Developments acquires 39-acre site in Bingham for new business park

Rula Developments has secured a 39-acre site in Bingham, located 8 miles east of Nottingham, from The Crown Estate to create a new business park, Bingham 46. The site has outline consent for employment uses, with plans to offer a mix of trade counters, offices, manufacturing, warehousing, general industrial, and roadside facilities.

The park will provide over 500,000 sq ft of space, with units ranging from 10,000 sq ft to 350,000 sq ft, subject to planning approval. The development will feature low site density and exceed current biodiversity net gain standards, aiming for a 15% increase. Sustainable design features include photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pumps, and energy-efficient lighting. The project will also target an A-rated EPC and BREEAM Excellent certification.

Strategically located near the A46 dual carriageway, the site benefits from strong transport links to Nottingham, Newark, Grantham, and Leicester and regular bus and train services. The masterplan includes pedestrian and cycle linkages and connections to the adjacent housing development, offering access to the town centre’s amenities.

Rula Developments is working closely with The Crown Estate on the scheme and will submit a reserved matters application soon. The development aims to attract both local and regional businesses by offering high-quality facilities and access to a skilled workforce.

Savills and M1 Agency are handling the forward letting and sale of the development, which is expected to provide significant local employment opportunities.

New horizon takes shape on Grimsby’s skyline

Tess Egginton
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New horizon takes shape on Grimsby’s skyline
Grimsby’s new Horizon Youth Zone has reached a major construction milestone, with work now complete on the roofline of the final building, which offers a first glimpse of how the development will look on the town’s skyline. Located on Garth Lane, the development is being delivered by national charity OnSide in partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council, which is contributing to the development as part of the Greater Grimsby Town Deal, and the Department of Culture Media and Sport, through the Youth Investment Fund. The site is being transformed by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter and is due to open this autumn. As part of the work, a series of Grade II listed 19th century maltings and grain store buildings, known as West Haven Maltings and Migar House, have been fully restored and repurposed. The middle part of the building sits at the heart of the development alongside the River Freshney and on a river wall which had to be rebuilt using a pontoon in the river to create a safe working platform. The building had fallen into a state of disrepair but it has been rebuilt, and work is now complete on its new roof structure. In addition to the refurbishment and restoration aspects of the project, the final piece of the scheme will see Hobson & Porter constructing a large outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA). Horizon Youth Zone will offer a safe and inspiring place for young people aged 8 to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, to enjoy their leisure time. Joe Booth, Business Development Director from Hobson & Porter, said: “With construction due to complete this summer ahead of the Youth Zone opening in autumn, this part of the development and restoration of the building, which was in a poor state of disrepair, is an achievement worth marking for the whole project team. “It’s been a highly complex part of the scheme, that also required a retaining river wall to be built, but it’s the final piece of the jigsaw that now shows how Horizon Youth Zone will integrate into Grimsby’s skyline. “The feedback we’ve received from the people of Grimsby has been fantastic, regardless of whether or not they’re connected to the project, because it’s given these buildings and this site a new lease of life and is going to make a huge difference to so many local young people, as well as bringing a state-of-the-art facility to the town.” Lucy Ottewell-Key, CEO of Horizon Youth Zone, said: “We’re delighted with how work is progressing and to see the completed roofline on this final building feels like a major milestone ahead of our opening later this year. “There’s a genuine buzz across North East Lincolnshire about Horizon Youth Zone and what it means for young people throughout the region, especially because so many local businesses, organisations and patrons are supporting us and making it possible, which is very exciting for everyone involved.” Horizon Youth Zone is an independent charity with a private sector led board, and once opened, it will be part of the OnSide network of 15 Youth Zones nationwide, which support over 50,000 young people annually. After completion, it’s estimated that Horizon could benefit up to 4,000 young people from North East Lincolnshire each year. Capital funders of Horizon Youth Zone comprise of Historic England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Architectural Heritage Fund, The Youth Investment Fund, Evergreen Life, St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation, Ørsted and Greencoats Wind UK. Horizon Youth Zone is also building a family of Founder Patrons, comprising of local organisations and philanthropists, who will support the Youth Zone during its first four years.

Underfunded waterways pose business risks for UK industries

April Lara
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Underfunded waterways pose business risks for UK industries

A recent protest across Lincolnshire, involving a flotilla of canal boats and cruisers, highlights growing concerns over the lack of government funding for the UK’s inland waterways, posing a potential business risk for industries reliant on them. The protest, organised by Fund Britain’s Waterways (FBW), draws attention to the urgent need for increased investment in maintaining the nation’s canals and rivers, contributing significantly to the UK economy.

Waterways generate £2.5 billion annually through water-based tourism, while also offering vital social, health, and environmental benefits. However, the FBW, a coalition of groups representing hundreds of thousands of users, warns that rising maintenance costs and climate change challenges threaten to undermine the sector’s sustainability.

For businesses that depend on waterways for logistics, tourism, and recreation, the risk of reduced government funding could result in deteriorating infrastructure and diminished operational capacity. While the Canals and Rivers Trust currently receives £740 million in government grants through 2027, future funding remains uncertain, with reduced support expected beyond that period.

500,000 sq ft logistics and manufacturing site completes in Derby

Tess Egginton
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500,000 sq ft logistics and manufacturing site completes in Derby
Logicor, an owner, manager, and developer of European logistics real estate, has completed its latest logistics and manufacturing site, Derby 507. This 508,003 sq ft development is set to create up to 1,000 jobs for the local community, providing a boost to the region’s economy. Based in Infinity Park Derby, Derby 507 is located within a hub of major manufacturers including Rolls Royce, Toyota, JCB, Alstom, and Nestle. Derby 507 has also achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating and an EPC A+ rating. The facility will include 30 secure cycle spaces, multiple EV charging stations, and solar installations to promote renewable energy use. Charlie Howard, Logicor, UK Managing Director, said: “We are focused on creating high-quality logistics spaces that support local economies and enhance the logistics infrastructure across the UK. The development will provide significant employment opportunities while facilitating growth for businesses in the region.”
Christopher Tebbs, Inward Investment Executive at Marketing Derby, said: “Logicor’s investment into the ‘Derby 507’ scheme shows great confidence in the city from a major global investment player. This new 508,000 sq ft speculative build has the potential to support over 1,000 jobs for the local area whilst attracting a world-class end-user. “This commitment furthermore speaks volumes about the wider Infinity Park Derby scheme, which is set to become one of the region’s new Investment Zones under the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).”

Greencore’s mission to acquire Bakkavor takes step forward with agreement in principle for £1.2bn deal

Tess Egginton
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Greencore’s mission to acquire Bakkavor takes step forward with agreement in principle for £1.2bn deal

Convenience foods manufacturer Greencore’s mission to acquire Bakkavor, the manufacturer of fresh prepared food, has taken a key step forward, with the businesses reaching an agreement in principle on the key financial terms of a possible cash and share offer.

The £1.2 billion deal bringing the companies together would create a leading UK convenience food business with a combined revenue of £4 billion.

Under the terms of the offer, Bakkavor shareholders would be entitled to receive 85 pence in cash for each Bakkavor share and 0.604 Greencore shares.

Greencore shareholders would own approximately 56% and Bakkavor shareholders would own approximately 44% of the combined group.

Following the rejection of previous bids from Greencore, which has its UK head office in Worksop, the board of Bakkavor has now indicated that the key financial terms represent a value it would be minded unanimously to recommend to Bakkavor shareholders.

Nottingham electrical insulation components manufacturer snapped up

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham electrical insulation components manufacturer snapped up
Termate, a Nottingham-based manufacturer of electrical insulation components, has been acquired by n Industries. The strategic partnership positions Termate for accelerated growth and expanded global reach. For over 80 years, Termate has established itself as a trusted provider of safety-critical electrical components, specialising in busbar supports, standoff insulators, busbar plugs, and a range of insulation and termination products. “Joining n Industries marks a significant milestone for Termate,” said Rob Swann, departing Managing Director and owner. “Their decentralised structure and commitment to supporting Termate’s excellent management team will enable them to capitalise on the company’s strong foundations to meet the increasing demand for products in key sectors. “With the global energy transition and the rapid expansion of data centres and energy storage solutions, the need for high-quality, reliable electrical insulation has never been greater. This partnership with n-industries will empower Termate to better serve their global customer base and drive innovation.” David Bristow, acting Managing Director, added: “It’s an incredible privilege and really exciting to be leading Termate into the next chapter of development and growth at a pivotal point in the company history as we join the n Industries Group. “Building on the exceptional legacy built by Rob in recent years, I have immense confidence that the strong and loyal Termate team, working together with the depth of experience at n Industries and their passion for growing small UK companies, will be able to make a real success of the opportunities that exist for Termate.” CEO of n-Industries Group, Jonathan Bates-Kawachi, said: “Termate has an outstanding reputation for excellence in designing and manufacturing electrical insulation components. The safety critical nature of Termate’s broad range of products and the excellent growth opportunities available make Termate an excellent fit within our group. “We are excited to work with David, Craig, Lucy and the excellent team at Termate to build on the impressive legacy and history of the business within the Swann Family, and under the leadership of Rob Swann over the last 18 years.”

Lincolnshire Co-op commits £8.5m to renewable energy through long-term wind power deal

April Lara
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Lincolnshire Co-op has signed an £8.5 million Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA) to secure renewable energy for the next 10 years. The agreement, part of a £40 million partnership with four other co-operatives, will cover approximately 50% of the society’s emissions across 220 outlets.

The contract, beginning 1 April 2025, ensures Lincolnshire Co-op will receive 10,000 megawatt-hours of energy annually from the London Array offshore wind farm. The facility, located off the north Kent coast, is operated by German energy giant RWE and supplies 10% of the UK’s wind power.

The deal, facilitated by Inspired PLC with legal support from Shoosmiths LLP, aims to provide price stability while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. In addition, Lincolnshire Co-op has invested £2 million in solar panels for 62 sites and is upgrading refrigeration systems for greater energy efficiency.

For businesses, the move highlights the growing role of long-term renewable energy contracts in managing operational costs and sustainability commitments.

Phenna Group makes trio of acquisitions

Tess Egginton
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Phenna Group makes trio of acquisitions
Nottingham-headquartered Phenna Group, which invests in and partners with niche independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies, has made a trio of acquisitions, seeing Atlantic Testing Laboratories, Great Place To Work, and the Ecology Division of Ground Control Ltd join the group. Snapping up Atlantic Testing Laboratories (ATL), a full-service engineering support firm headquartered in Canton, New York State, Phenna significantly strengthens its presence in the United States. ATL, which has 270 employees and 11 offices, will be an integral part of the firm’s Americas Region, delivering TICC expertise to roads, pavements, groundworks and utilities sectors. Eric D’Orio, Divisional MD, Americas for Phenna Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome ATL into Phenna Group. “ATL has built an outstanding reputation for excellence in engineering support services, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our strategy of investing in high-quality businesses that share our commitment to safety, integrity, and customer value. We look forward to working closely with ATL’s talented team to drive continued success.” Marijean Remington, CEO of ATL, said: “After nearly 60 years of dedication and innovation in the industry, ATL recognized the need for a strategic partner to help propel our growth and enhance the breadth of services we offer in construction materials, drilling/geotechnical, and environmental. “We are thrilled to have found that partner in the Phenna Group, whose expertise and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision for the future. Together, we look forward to an exciting new chapter of expanded capabilities and opportunities, continuing our legacy of delivering exceptional value to our clients.” Phenna Group were advised by RSM and Eversheds Sutherland. ATL were advised by Hancock Estabrook and The Bonadio Group. The acquisition of Great Place To Work secures a recognised and leading brand that augments Phenna’s certification and compliance division in the United Kingdom and will allow the business to generate significant cross selling opportunities across its group of companies.
Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Backed by 30 years of data, their globally recognised Great Place To Work Certification and Best Workplaces Lists enable employers to attract and retain talent, benchmark company culture, and increase revenues. Kunle Malomo, CEO of Great Place to Work UK, said: “Selecting the right partner to support our mission and growth ambitions was a major decision for myself and co-shareholders. “Since my very first interaction, I’ve felt confident we have found an equally like-minded partner who will help us reach our vision of a great place to work for all and who also shares our people-focused values. “They have been open, honest, and transparent in all our dealings to date, which gives me high confidence that we will do great things together. We believe that the future of work is for all and to do that requires a deep, data-driven understanding of employee sentiment, experience, and engagement. “There’s a real sense of excitement about this next chapter, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish collectively in the future.” RSM, Eversheds Sutherland and Hill Dickinson advised Phenna Group. Benchmark International, Alvarez & Marsal and Penningtons advised Great Place to Work UK.
The acquisition of the Ecology Division of Ground Control Ltd will see the team join RammSanderson, a Phenna Group company, enhancing the company’s position as a leader in ecological and environmental consultancy. Ground Control has been a trusted provider of grounds maintenance, arboriculture, and environmental services, with its ecology division playing a key role in delivering sustainable, nature-positive solutions. By integrating this team into RammSanderson, Phenna expands the services and expertise available to clients. Stuart Abbs, Divisional MD Infrastructure Division at Phenna Group, said: “We have long enjoyed a successful working relationship with Ground Control, particularly through their provision of drilling services to our geoenvironmental businesses within the Phenna Group Infrastructure Division. “Bringing their ecology team into RammSanderson deepens our partnership and expands our collective capability to deliver first-class ecological services to our clients.” Nick Sanderson, Managing Director (East Midlands and South East England) at RammSanderson, added: “We are delighted to welcome a fantastic group of ecologists to our team. “Their expertise and experience will further enhance our service offering, allowing us to support a broader client base and extend our geographic reach. This move aligns perfectly with our mission to provide high-quality, pragmatic ecological consultancy.” Jason Knights, Managing Director of Ground Control, said: “This move represents a natural evolution for our ecology team, not a departure from our ecological services, but a strategic step forward. “Ecology remains a core part of our offering, and by our team joining forces with RammSanderson, we’re significantly expanding the depth and breadth of what we can offer to clients as well as ensure our ecology team has the best possible opportunities to grow and develop.”

£42m Leicester Square boutique hotel for sale amid growing investor demand

April Lara
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£42m Leicester Square boutique hotel for sale amid growing investor demand

A newly converted boutique hotel in Leicester Square has been listed for £42 million, reflecting increased investor appetite for London’s luxury hospitality sector. The 2-5 Charing Cross Road property is set to open by June.

London’s high-end hotel market is expanding, with 757 new luxury rooms expected by the end of 2025—the largest annual increase since 2014. Despite rising costs, demand remains strong, with occupancy rates returning to pre-pandemic levels.

However, profitability faces pressure from rising wages and operational expenses. RSM UK warns of cost challenges ahead, but increased consumer spending could help sustain growth.

Global real estate firms Avison Young UK and JLL also market the freehold contract for 3-5 Charing Cross Road.

Three Bunkers £100k golf challenge kicks off with focus on those to benefit from support

Tess Egginton
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Three Bunkers £100k golf challenge kicks off with focus on those to benefit from support
The annual Three Bunkers golf challenge has kicked off its 2025 appeal by focusing on how funds raised will help local beneficiaries. Now in its 5th year and already having raised nearly £50k, The Three Bunkers Challenge involves 24 golfers playing 27 holes within 10 hours at courses in Derby, Leicester & Nottingham. All money raised goes to local charity Big C Little c which supports cancer research and children at risk. This year, a major beneficiary will be the Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre (CBTRC) which is based at The University of Nottingham, conducting pioneering, internationally recognised research aimed at improving the lives of young people like James Kerry. Until 2024, eight year old James from Nottingham was leading a healthy and active lifestyle doing kick boxing and playing football. Following weeks of severe bouts of sickness and headaches, James was diagnosed with a brain tumour that had also spread to his spine. Showing incredible bravery and determination, James learned to walk again and started his own fund raising activities for CBTRC and has so far raised £32,000 from selling bracelets he makes himself and a sponsored walk around the Nottingham Forest City Ground pitch. Spurred on by his grandson’s bravery, Dave Chapman from MAF Finance Group, a previous participant in the Three Bunkers challenge, approached the Three Bunkers organisers to see if there was a way to support CBTRC. Challenge organiser Elliot Cook, from Simple Marketing Consultancy, said: “Big C Little c was founded to support cancer research and children, so it made absolute sense to nominate CBTRC as one of the beneficiaries in 2025. “We’ve committed to hold the challenge until £100,000 has been raised for Big C Little c to help them support local cancer research projects and initiatives that help young people.’’ This year’s Three Bunkers Challenge takes place on Friday 23 May 2025 and involves teams from Actons Solicitors, Fiscal Engineers, Finance for Enterprise, MAF Finance Group, Michael Reed Wealth Management, Shakespeare Martineau Solicitors, and Simple Marketing Consultancy. All money raised will be donated to the charity Big C Little c which was founded in 2019 by business entrepreneurs, Andrew Springhall and Colin Shaw, former chairman of PKF Cooper Parry, who joined forces to create a charity that would encourage East Midlands businesses to organise events to raise money for cancer research, the NSPCC and other children related charities. Every year over 450 children are diagnosed with a brain tumour. A huge range of research is carried out at the CBTRC, looking into as many aspects of child brain tumours as possible. It’s aim is to find a cure for all child brain tumours and to reduce the disability caused by them. Although the Centre’s research is progressing, it needs more funding to make the most of the scientific knowledge that is being uncovered in order to save more lives. Andrew Springhall, from Big C Little c, added: “More often than not cancer treatment has worse side effects than the initial symptoms and institutions like CBTRC are doing an incredible job researching treatments that are more targeted on the cancer tumours which ultimately means patients enjoy a better outcome. “We sincerely hope the money raised will progress cancer research and help children at risk.” Players will commence the Challenge at 7am at Morley Hayes Golf Club, players then travel to Charnwood Forest Golf Club and conclude at The Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club, reaching three corners of the East Midlands Counties of Nottingham, Derby & Leicestershire, covering just over 70 miles. The organisers also welcome support via online donations or gifting prizes which can be auctioned during the prize presentation. So far fourballs from Chevin Golf Club, Charnwood Forest & The Nottinghamshire have been gifted.
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