Derbyshire closes five adult education centres amid funding shift

April Lara
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Derbyshire closes five adult education centres amid funding shift

Derbyshire County Council has announced the closure of five adult education centres, citing rapid changes to grant conditions and funding allocations. The affected centres are Ashbourne Adult Education Centre, Derbyshire Eco Centre near Wirksworth, Community House in Long Eaton, The Ritz in Matlock, and Shirebrook Adult Education Centre.

The decision follows the council’s earlier closure of centres in Alfreton and Glossop. The council indicated the moves respond to the reallocation of most adult education funding to the East Midlands Mayoral Strategic Authority. No public consultation has been scheduled for these closures.

The closures will impact 1,337 learners. The total annual cost of operating the five centres was £1.044m, averaging £1,050 per learner. Costs varied by location, from £498 per learner at the Eco Centre to £1,462 at Community House in Long Eaton.

The council plans to continue offering adult education courses through its remaining ten centres and is reviewing potential future uses for the vacated properties, including sale or lease. A full review of adult education services and stakeholder consultation is expected to take place in the autumn.

The Department for Education has transferred Derbyshire’s adult skills funding to the regional authority as part of a wider strategy to devolve decision-making to local bodies. Nationally, the Adult Skills Fund will provide over £1.4bn in 2025-26, supporting initiatives such as Technical Excellence Colleges.

For first time in almost 50 years Nottingham’s Council House clock to undergo major restoration

Tess Egginton
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For first time in almost 50 years Nottingham’s Council House clock to undergo major restoration
Nottingham’s iconic Council House clock is set to undergo major restoration this autumn for only the second time in its near 100-year history. Installed in 1928 and built by renowned Nottingham clockmakers G & F Cope, the clock has been a constant presence in the heart of the city. It was last fully dismantled and inspected in 1978, and while some minor repairs have taken place since then, it is now due a full service to prepare it for the next 50 years of timekeeping. Nottingham City Council, in partnership with specialist suppliers, will lead the restoration. This will include a full inspection and servicing of the clock’s mechanism, hour strike, and bells, alongside future-proofing essential components and restoring the clockface’s centre cross with traditional 23.75ct gold leaf. Thanks to support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Council has secured £60,000 to fund the restoration works, including contingency for any additional minor repairs. Works are due to start on 1 September and are expected to be completed by 7 November. Nottingham Council House is a defining landmark of the city centre, located in the heart of Old Market Square. Inside the Dome at the top of the Council House is ‘Little John’, the famous hour bell. Nicknamed “Little John” since the building first opened, the bell was cast in 1927 by the world-renowned bell founders John Taylor & Co of Loughborough. It is the fifth heaviest bell in the UK, and its powerful E-flat tone is the deepest in the country – reportedly heard up to seven miles away. Little John was also considered as a possible replacement for the Big Ben chimes on BBC Radio 4 live broadcast when the Palace of Westminster was undergoing repairs. During the 10-week project, Little John and the bells will temporarily fall silent while restoration takes place. Councillor Jay Hayes, executive member for housing and planning, said: “The Council House clock is a cherished part of our city’s skyline and history. This restoration is an investment in Nottingham’s heritage, ensuring that it continues to stand proudly and reliably for generations to come. I’m pleased we’ve been able to secure external funding to support these important works and preserve this landmark for the future.”

Gateley snaps up boutique IP firm

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Gateley snaps up boutique IP firm

Gateley, the professional services group, has acquired Groom Wilkes & Wright LLP (GWW) for up to £9m.

Founded more than 20 years ago, GWW is a boutique IP firm specialising in every aspect of trademark and design law, representing clients across all sectors from start-ups to several of the biggest brand-owning companies globally.

For the year ended 5 April 2025, GWW delivered revenue of £4.7m, with corporatised profit before tax of £1.4m. As at 5 April 2025, GWW had net assets of £0.3m.

Led by senior partners Trevor Wright and Katy Adams, GWW will operate within Gateley’s Business Services Platform and will continue to trade under the name Groom Wilkes & Wright.

The Platform combines the commercial expertise of IP and dispute resolution lawyers within Gateley Legal along with trade mark and patent attorneys Adamson Jones and life sciences patent attorneys Symbiosis IP, both acquired by the Group in 2022.

Rod Waldie, CEO of Gateley, said: “I am delighted to welcome Groom Wilkes & Wright to the Group. This strategic acquisition will extend our reach in trade mark work across our consultancy and legal services teams who operate in this field.

“The Acquisition forms part of our acquisitive and organic growth plan to develop a distinct and innovative intangible assets offering that further builds on the extensive expertise we have in the market and where we are already seeing huge potential for further growth.” 

Trevor Wright, senior partner and founder of GWW, said: “I’m thrilled that my colleagues and I are joining Gateley today.

“Since our first meeting I have been impressed by their strategic vision of building deep expertise in a broad range of trade mark and wider IP professional services, and by the progress they have made to date in delivering that strategy.

“We share the same core values of a commitment to excellence in client service, delivered as a team. I am very grateful to my colleagues for all their hard work and dedication to this point. Gateley will be a fantastic new home for them and for the GWW business.”

LDC backs Bespoke Kitchen Foods

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LDC backs Bespoke Kitchen Foods
Bespoke Kitchen Foods, a provider of innovative vegetarian and vegan products for the pub and casual dining market, has secured investment from LDC, part of Lloyds Banking Group. Based in Coalville, Leicestershire, Bespoke supplies premium products to branded pub and restaurant chains and food wholesalers supplying the foodservice channels. Its products are developed specifically to meet customer requirements and include sweet and savoury baked and formed products. Founded in 2008, Bespoke has grown rapidly, with revenue increasing 18% on average over the last three years. In January 2025, it opened a new production facility near its headquarters to further increase its manufacturing capacity, raising its headcount to over 100. This growth has been supported by the rising popularity of vegetarian and vegan categories and more health-conscious dining. According to market research provider IMARC Group, the UK’s vegan and vegetarian food market is growing at over 11% and is expected to reach £1 billion in size by 2033. LDC is backing the firm’s management team, led by CEO Sam Tidball. The private equity investor will support the business’s organic and acquisitive growth strategy, which is underpinned by expansion into new segments, including high street casual dining chains. The investment was led by LDC’s East Midlands and East of England team, including investment director Simon Peacock, and partner and head of the East Midlands and East of England David Bains, supported by investment executive Josh McHugh. Following the transaction, Simon and David will join Bespoke’s board as non-executive directors alongside Chris Copestake as executive chairman. Chris is a foodservice industry veteran, bringing decades of food and drink industry experience to the role, including more than 4 years as chair and then CEO of private equity-backed food ingredient specialist Freshcut Foods, and as founder of soups and sauces business TSC. Robert Burrell will also join the board as CFO, bringing strong experience in both food manufacturing and hospitality from previous roles at Geary’s Bakery, Denby and The Mellors Group. Sam Tidball, CEO of Bespoke, said: “We’re at a pivotal moment in our business journey. Consumer preferences continue to evolve, and more people than ever before are choosing to reduce meat consumption when eating out. “Partnering with LDC, an investor with deep sector experience based right on our doorstep, will help us to seize opportunities for growth in new categories and markets, all while continuing to provide exceptional culinary experiences for our customers right across the UK.” Simon Peacock, investment director at LDC, added: “We’ve been investing in market-leading food and drink businesses for decades, and Bespoke is a fantastic example of the innovation and ambition that characterise the sector. “Sam and the team are well positioned to take advantage of rising demand for their products among an increasingly health-conscious customer base, as well as to make strategic acquisitions in a highly fragmented market. We’re looking forward to using our experience to support them as they pursue their goals over the next few years.” A debt facility was provided by OakNorth, which was led by director of debt finance, Ian Fairclough. LDC was advised by Food Strategy Associates on commercial and operational diligence (Robert Lawson, Richard Wyborn, Nigel Devine) with support from Future of Foodservice (Simon Stenning), Coppett Hill on Go-To-Market DD (Dave Kirby and Harry Von Behr), Cooper Pary on corporate finance (Tom Summers), Cortus Advisory on financial diligence (Paul Kithoray and Phil Dean), Browne Jacobson on legals (Sam Sharp, Matt Bolton and Shaun McCabe) and Moore Kingston Smith (Guy Taylor). Bespoke was advised by Needle Partners on legals (Sharon Needle and Connor Kendle).

Connect with property and construction professionals at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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Connect with property and construction professionals at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
With judging underway for the 10th annual East Midlands Bricks Awards, book your tickets for the highly anticipated event taking place on Thursday 2nd October. Recognising and celebrating those behind the changing landscape of our region – the very best companies, teams, individuals and projects – the event showcases the exceptional work carried out across the East Midlands over the past 12 months. The awards further present a perfect networking opportunity, with the leaders of property and construction businesses from across the East Midlands in attendance. The event will additionally feature Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker. Attend the glittering awards ceremony at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground to see who takes home the title of Contractor of the Year, Developer of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Sustainable Development of the Year, Deal of the Year, Most Active Agent, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, Responsible Business and of course Overall Winner. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, sponsored by SEV, will also be awarded a grand prize – a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Tickets can be booked here.

The event will begin at 4:30pm with networking and continue until 7:30pm, with additional time thereafter for connecting and celebrating. Complementary drinks and nibbles will be served on arrival. Dress code is standard business dress.

With the shortlist now announced, see who the finalists are here.

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 here Dress code: Standard business attire Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with property and construction professionals while applauding the exceptional companies and projects in the region. Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                                          

To be held at:

East Midlands to trial GPS-based rail ticketing

April Lara
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East Midlands to trial GPS-based rail ticketing

Train operators in the East Midlands are launching a trial of digital ticketing technology that tracks journeys using GPS and automatically applies the lowest available fare. The initiative allows passengers to check in via a mobile app, travel without pre-booking, and receive a barcode for inspections or barrier access.

The pilot will run on services between Leicester, Derby and Nottingham, with an expected 4,000 participants. Northern Trains in Yorkshire will join the scheme later this month. The system aims to replace paper tickets and QR-based mobile tickets, streamlining fare collection and reducing the need for planning.

The Department for Transport is leading the programme, citing previous successful trials in Switzerland, Denmark, and Scotland. The scheme aligns with broader efforts to simplify the UK rail fare system, improve passenger convenience, and integrate new technology.

Rail operators are preparing for wider adoption if the pilot proves effective. East Midlands Railway has reported over 500 registrations for the trial, highlighting commercial interest in solutions that simplify fares and enhance the customer experience.

The project forms part of ongoing government and industry discussions on modernising ticketing, including proposals for nationalised Great British Railways and future reforms intended to guarantee best-value fares.

Nottingham businesses gain access to new growth and digital support

April Lara
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Nottingham businesses gain access to new growth and digital support

Businesses in Nottingham now have access to a series of programmes designed to support growth, digital adoption, and sustainability. The Nottingham Accelerator initiative, delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of Nottingham City Council, will run until 31 March 2026. The project has received £124,982 in funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support local firms in innovating, adopting technology, reducing their carbon impact, and achieving sustainability targets.

Support under the programme includes workshops, one-to-one guidance, consultancy, and funding. Digital Transformation advisers offer tailored advice on artificial intelligence, technology adoption, process improvement, and energy efficiency through complimentary audits and decarbonisation webinars. Businesses can apply for growth vouchers of up to £2,000 to access specialist consultancy or training aimed at improving processes, adopting new technologies, and advancing sustainability initiatives.

The Autumn 2025 programme includes sessions covering the use of ChatGPT for business, an introduction to Vibe Coding, Microsoft 365 CoPilot for business users, harnessing AI for business applications, and mastering graphic design using Canva and Adobe Express. Following engagement with participating firms, East Midlands Chamber will establish an AI forum to identify growth opportunities and support businesses as they progress on their digital transformation journeys.

Smiley Monroe opens Derbyshire depot to speed up UK deliveries

April Lara
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Smiley Monroe opens Derbyshire depot to speed up UK deliveries

Smiley Monroe, a global conveyor belt supplier headquartered in Northern Ireland, has launched a new distribution facility in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. The depot will hold full rolls and cut lengths of flat and chevron conveyor belts, offering next-day delivery and same-day collection for UK customers.

The move responds to increased demand from service companies and other clients in Great Britain, where faster lead times were previously limited by distribution from Northern Ireland. The Midlands location positions Smiley Monroe closer to its GB customer base, improving supply chain efficiency and turnaround times.

Founded in 1979, Smiley Monroe operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in the UK, USA, and India. The company supplies conveyor belts to equipment manufacturers across the construction, recycling, and environmental sectors. The UK expansion is part of broader growth plans and a strategy to maintain close connections with key customers.

Bowmer + Kirkland acquires Denton to expand fit-out capabilities

April Lara
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Bowmer + Kirkland acquires Denton to expand fit-out capabilities

Bowmer + Kirkland Group, a Derbyshire-based construction and development company with a £1.25 billion turnover, has acquired Denton, a UK office fit-out specialist. The move strengthens Bowmer + Kirkland’s position in commercial interiors and workplace solutions.

Denton has operated for 30 years, delivering CAT A, CAT A+ and CAT B office fit-outs across the UK, generating £40 million in revenue. Under Bowmer + Kirkland, Denton gains access to national resources, expanded project capacity and greater operational scale, enabling delivery of larger, more complex contracts while maintaining its established standards and client-focused approach.

Bowmer + Kirkland has more than 100 years of heritage in construction and development, prioritising quality, long-term investment in people, and family ownership. The acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to broaden its service offerings in office design, fit-outs, and workplace solutions that support collaboration, wellbeing and efficiency nationwide.

Platform colleagues take to the skies for NSPCC

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Platform colleagues take to the skies for NSPCC
A group of fearless colleagues from Platform Housing Group are set to swap solid ground for the clouds next month, all in the name of charity. On Friday 5 September, eight colleagues will be jumping from Brackley Airfield in Northamptonshire as part of a daring charity skydive to raise vital funds for the NSPCC, Platform’s corporate charity partner for 2025/26. The team has already raised £2,650 ahead of the big day; each colleague has a target of £395, with all monies going directly to support the NSPCC’s work protecting children and supporting families across the UK. Last year, Platform colleagues raised thousands through a similar skydive for Dementia UK – the housing association’s corporate charity for 2024/25 – with the event proving to be one of the organisation’s most popular fundraising challenges. Chris Pinson-Bradley, community engagement manager at Platform Housing Group and the organiser of the event, said: “It’s not every day you decide to jump out of a plane, but knowing it’s for such an important cause makes it all worthwhile. We’ve had such brilliant support from colleagues, family and friends and we can’t wait for the big day.” Those taking part are organiser Chris Pinson-Bradley, community engagement manager; Ashley McAllister, customer experience advisor; Bryan Richert, home ownership officer; Gill Murphy, retirement housing officer; Heidi Bumphrey, supported living service manager; Jodie Downton, supported living operations manager; Karen Gammon, rent officer and Lindsey Norris, external contracts delivery coordinator. This challenge is just one of the many fundraising activities colleagues are taking on for the NSPCC, which was announced as Platform’s corporate charity of the year in April. Every £4 raised could help answer a child’s call or message for help to Childline; £5 could help pay for a practitioner to answer a call to the NSPCC helpline. To support the team and donate, please visit the fundraising page at Platform Housing Group – fundraising for NSPCC (2025-26) is fundraising for NSPCC
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