On Thursday 3rd October, East Midlands Business Link’s prestigious Bricks Awards will take place at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrating the region’s property and construction industry.
The annual event recognises development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.
With nominations closing on Thursday 5th September, 10 categories are available to enter. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your projects and team, reward their hard work, and boost morale.
Amongst this year’s categories is Responsible Business of the Year, which can be entered here.
The winner of this award will have demonstrated corporate responsibility in their field, working in harmony and for the betterment of the local community in which it operates and setting a shining example for the rest of the supply chain.
Last year the award was won by Cawarden, with G F Tomlinson and Aspbury Planning Limited runners up.
Upon winning, William Crooks, Managing Director of Cawarden, said: “Cawarden’s second consecutive win of the Responsible Business of the Year award is a true testament to our unwavering commitment towards improving the industry’s image. Our efforts to raise the bar for our people, planet, and community have been recognised through this award. Being a part of the regional property and construction sector is a source of immense pride for us, and we will continue to strive towards excellence.”
This year’s Responsible Business of the Year award will once again be sponsored by Press for Attention PR.
Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR, shared: “I have sponsored The Bricks for many years now and as far as I recall, always this particular category. Why is that? Well, it is the PR and the former journalist in me combined.
“There are some superb stories that come to light here that might otherwise struggle to make the news or are perhaps kept under the bushel to an extent. I get that. The work and changes that are being created are the key thing when it comes to being responsible from an ESG perspective, not the column inches. That being said, here’s a chance to cast off those sharing shackles and to shine the spotlight proudly on some of the fantastic feats and worthy work that is taking place across the region within the built environment. Cheers to you all.”
Offering advice to those entering the awards, Greg added: “First up, tell us judges a story. We don’t need to hear about what you do, your history and inside leg measurements. Set the scene by all means but grab our attention early on by explaining the problem or challenge as it stood and how you tackled it and crucially…why? How did you change things? What does it mean for the user/stakeholder. Remember, nobody wants a drill…they want a home in the wall. Show us the results.”
Submit your nominations for Responsible Business of the Year herebefore entries close on Thursday 5th September.
Winners and sponsors at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd 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 Paul Southby.
Other award categories open for entry include: Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Architects of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Most Active Estate Agent, Excellence in Design, and Sustainable 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 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – clickhere to secure yours.
The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Chesterfield software company RA Information Systems is to become an employee-owned business through an Employee Ownership Trust.
A company spokesman said: “The move reflects our commitment to sustaining the company’s independence and recognising the invaluable contributions of our employees. This decision not only secures the future of our business but also honours the legacy of our founders by preserving the unique culture that has defined RA Information Systems for over three decades.
“An EOT is particularly well-suited to RA Information Systems’ business model, where people are at the heart of its success. By placing ownership in the hands of those who contribute most, The company is aligning its structure with its long-term vision and values. This transition allows the firm to continue providing the high level of service which clients have come to expect while giving something back to dedicated colleagues.”
The Trustee of the RA Information Systems EOT Limited now owns 100% of the company shares. The initial Trustee Directors include Rob Dabbs, Helen Hadfield, and Rachel Judge, who will oversee the trust and ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of the employees and the business.
There will be no immediate changes to the day-to-day management of the company. The founding family —Rob, Annette, and Jon Dabbs — will continue to be actively involved, ensuring continuity and stability. The firm is confident that this new ownership structure will provide the stability, depth of management knowledge, and quick decision-making necessary to support customers well into the future.
Rob Dabbs, Trustee Director at RA Information Systems, said: “This transition to an Employee Ownership Trust is a natural evolution for our company. It ensures that our values are safeguarded while maintaining our unique culture. For our customers, it’s business as usual—we remain committed to delivering excellence, with the same dedication and passion that has always been at the core of RA Information Systems.”
Eddisons plans to extend its East Midlands regional reach further into Leicestershire with the appointment of Aman Verma as Associate Director, moving in from Phillips Sutton Associates.
This is the second senior hire for Eddisons in the East Midlands this summer, and this latest appointment is part of the firm’s strategic expansion in the region.
Addison’s Director Gilbert Harvey said: “Extending Eddisons’ offer in the East Midlands was always part of the business’s plan which began with the acquisition of Northamptonshire surveyors Budworth Hardcastle in 2022.
“While we have grown our regional roster of clients and instructions over the past two years, an active recruitment campaign – which is ongoing, with more appointments set to be announced in the autumn – is part of our plan for strategic growth across all counties in the East Midlands.
“Aman’s depth of knowledge of Leicestershire and the contrasting strengths of its commercial markets across the county will play a key part in presenting the Eddisons’ offer to new property audiences, as well as reinforcing our regional reach to existing clients.”
Mather Jamie, a specialist land development and property consultancy, has negotiated the sale of land in Coalville for a single-storey housing project.
Acting on behalf of a private landowner, Mather Jamie sought developer interest for a prime development site in Coalville. The site, which has full planning permission for 24 single-storey dwellings with garages and associated off-street parking and infrastructure, spans 2.67 acres.
It is strategically located to the south of Coalville, within the civil parish of Hugglescote and Donnington le Heath. Broadmead LLP has acquired the land with plans to deliver the approved bungalow scheme.
Chris Milne from Broadmead LLP said: “We’re committed to providing the homes people want, where they’re needed most. This opportunity allows us to build much-needed housing in this part of Leicestershire and look forward to the next stage of this process and seeing our plans become a reality.”
Sam Tyler, Development Surveyor at Mather Jamie, added: “This is an exciting scheme that will bring much-needed single-storey housing to the local area. Broadmead LLP has worked diligently to deliver an excellent outcome for our client.”
Rothera Bray Solicitors have been appointed to the legal panel of the Amputation Foundation.
Founded in 2017, the Amputation Foundation is a charity dedicated to providing immediate, empathetic, and effective support to amputees and their families.
As one of the Amputation Foundation’s recommended legal partners, Rothera Bray will leverage their extensive experience in limb loss litigation and will aid the charity in expanding its reach and delivering its strategy to support more people affected by limb loss.
Founder Stephen Cruse said: “Amputation Foundation is delighted to welcome Rothera Bray to the AF family. As the charity grows, so too does our need for additional support and having met with Rothera Bray on several occasions, we were excited by the synergy and ethos we shared.
“AF is expanding its regional support hubs and sharing a partnership with another Midlands based legal firm will help us and our members to access broader support.
“As a bilateral below knee amputee, I set Amputation Foundation up with one thing front and centre of my mind and that was and always will be, to support individuals and their families through what is invariably a life-changing experience.
“We are really looking forward to working with the Rothera Bray team to ensure our support can reach those people who want and need it.”
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to support those affected by limb loss,” said Greg Almond, Partner and Head of the Serious Injury team at Rothera Bray Solicitors.
“We are honoured to join the Amputation Foundation panel and contribute to their invaluable work. Together, we will provide vital resources and legal expertise to improve the lives of amputees and their families.”
Inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs and apprentices are among East Midlands women to be showcased at 2024’s Enterprising Women Awards.
Organised by East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women network, the ceremony at Winstanley House in Leicestershire on 20th September will unveil the winners of 10 award categories.
Enterprising Women Co-Chair Eileen Perry said: “With exactly one month to go until the Enterprising Women Awards, we’re busy setting the stage for an unmissable evening at this beautiful venue in Leicestershire. East Midlands women absolutely can thrive in business and these awards show that by doing so, they are driving continued change in perception within the business community.
“For me, what happens off the stage can be just, if not more valuable than on the stage. The huge boost to self-confidence you get sharing in the wins of brilliant businesswomen in the East Midlands is one thing, but the opportunity to network and build connections is really something that cannot be underestimated in growing your presence.
“I’d urge anyone poised to press the button to join us at the Awards to get registered straight away so as not to miss out on what is certain to be a really uplifting evening.”
Finalists for the Enterprising Women Awards 2024:Businesswoman of the Year (sponsored by Michael Smith Switchgear)
Bhumika Parmar BP Legal
Lai-Yee Cheung Sanjay Foods
Andrea Grey PPL PRS
Jo Jepson Base 51
Michelle Williams Meesh ConsultingFemale Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group)
Katy Upton Fortitude Nicsa
Laura Holland EcoTech Engineers
Michelle Williams Meesh Consulting
Poonam Sharma BarclaysSocial Commitment Award (sponsored by Tomato Energy)
Jessica Popplewell-Barker Rykneld Homes
Emma Sharpe Menphys
Sally-Anne Hurn Duncan & Toplis
Natalie Dunbar Consultus
Blu Hardy Hardy Signs
Bodie Hodges Foundation Bodie Hodges FoundationFemale Employee of the Year (sponsored by Nelsons)
Jay Dodson Base 51
Sarah Spray Menphys
Anne-Marie Hunt NatWest
Charlotte Barker The Maynard
Lai-Yee Cheung Sanjay Foods
Hannah O’Brien Colleague BoxTeam of the Year (sponsored by Breedon Consulting)
Base 51 Base 51
Family Law & Care Team Timms Solicitors
Olivia Beesley, Jodie Pringle Purpose Media
Summit Creative Summit Creative
The Maynard The Maynard
Bodie Hodges Foundation Bodie Hodges FoundationApprentice of the Year Award (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)
Elena Richards Rolls-Royce
Amber Whitby Pentaxia
Sarah Illsley Pentaxia
Lillie Jeffries- Williams Rolls-Royce
Manhoor Akhter Rolls-RoyceEmerging Leader Award (sponsored by Sarah Higgins Corporate Coaching)
Lai Yee Cheung Sanjay Foods
Alice Houghton The George Hathersage Longbow Venues
Bethany Grundy PPL PRS
Ruby Birks Purpose Media
Kamila Rozkowska M&E Accident Repair Centre LtdSmall Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Unique Window Systems)
Medilink Midlands
Michelle Williams Meesh Consulting
Sabrina Sudera Design Studio Architects
Laura Holland Ecotech Engineers
Rachel Biddles Blueprint InteriorsShe Who Innovates Award (sponsored by Pick Everard)
Kate Allan ExpHandMedilink Midlands
Preethi Kang Qinesis
Deborah Chester RimPro Tech
Elena Richards Rolls-Royce PLCLifetime Achievement Award (sponsored by Paradigm Wills)
To be announced at the ceremony
A wood recycling company has been fined after an employee was killed when he was struck by a JCB wheel loader.
On 29 April 2019, Thomas Brooke was walking across the yard at John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited in Nottingham. A JCB wheel loader, with its bucket raised, was operating in the yard along with other vehicles, but as the shovel moved forward, it collided with Tom who died from his injuries.
Tragically, Tom was working for the family company. At the time of the incident, Tom’s son Rupert was aged four. His wife, Jessica Brooke described Tom as a kind and caring person who was dedicated to his family and was loved by everyone who knew him.
In a statement, she said: “Our hearts are broken. The pain and suffering of his loss has been immense, and no words can describe the impact that his loss has had; both Rupert and I have been forever changed.
“We were partners in crime, soulmates and best friends and together took on whatever challenges life threw in our direction.”
Describing the relationship Tom had with Rupert, who is now nine, Jessica said: “From the moment that Rupert was born Tom was a natural father and Rupert and Tom had a very special bond. They were as thick as thieves, both being at their happiest when in the other’s company. Tom was a brilliant role model to Rupert in every respect; he was Rupert’s favourite person in the whole world and Rupert couldn’t have wished for a better father.
“I grieve the future that we will never have but also, and particularly, that Tom will never see Rupert’s future.”
The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited did not properly organise its workplace to keep pedestrians safe. There were no control measures, such as physical barriers, to prevent pedestrians accessing areas where loading shovels, lorries, forklift trucks and 360 grabs operated. It failed to properly assess the risks from operating machinery with reduced visibility and did not properly train, instruct and monitor employees.
On 20 August 2024, John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited of Fosse Way, Widmerpool, Nottingham pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 17(1) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and section 33(1)(c) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 at Nottingham Crown Court. They were fined £22,500 and agreed to pay costs of £44,227.28.
Speaking after the sentencing, HSE inspector Lindsay Bentley said: “This has been a very difficult case for all concerned. However, those in control of work have a responsibility to implement safe methods of working. Had simple measures been taken, this tragedy could have been prevented.”
This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Kate Harney and supported by HSE paralegal officer Rebecca Forman.
A second sub-letting has been completed at Discovery House, situated on Ruddington Fields Business Park.
The ground floor suite comprised 2,769 sq ft of open plan office accommodation that was undergoing a refurbishment during the letting, which allowed the occupier to adapt their preferences alongside the refurbishment.
Capita, the sublessor, occupy the whole of Discovery House offering a fully manned concierge area, WC and shower facilities, alongside meeting rooms that can be hired out for client meetings.
Capita’s need for office space had significantly reduced since the Government introduced the working from home scheme which led to a reduced office footprint.
PremTech Ltd are the latest to agree a sub-letting at Discovery House, with their main office based in Ashby-De-La-Zouch.
A sub-letting was previously carried out in 2023 for part of the ground floor, to Bentley Project Management Ltd. PremTech Ltd have now obtained the remaining space on the ground floor securing 8,000 sq ft of take-up for Capita to reduce their expenditure.
Amy Howard, Surveyor at FHP Property Consultants, said: “PremTech Ltd had been actively looking at offices for several months, considering numerous options along the way. Despite multiple viewings, it became evident that they had specific requirements for their new office space.
“Discovery House emerged as a strong contender, although a few of their needs remained unresolved. To address these concerns, we arranged an on-site meeting with Capita allowing a thorough discussion of the remaining issues.
“This meeting proved beneficial allowing us to secure them as an occupier. A key advantage of this collaboration was that Premtech could directly work with Capita on the refurbishment, ensuring the office was tailored to their preferred tastes.
“PremTech are a great new addition to the Business Park, offering a diverse range of occupiers. I am thrilled to have successfully closed this deal for my client, achieving their primary goal of reducing their costs while also breathing new life into Discovery House. I wish both parties all the best in their next endeavours.”
Elizabeth Cashon, Estates Surveyor, Group Property at Capita, said: “This is the second successful letting that FHP has secured for us in Discovery House, we came to them for advice and they delivered on this in securing two tenants.”
Shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, nominations will close on Thursday 5th September for the annual East Midlands Bricks Awards.
With 10 categories available to enter, the independent awards and publicity programme recognises development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.
Amongst this year’s categories is Excellence in Design, which can be entered here.
The winner of this category will be the developer who has shown true originality in design excellence across a scheme or schemes over the last 12 months, whether this be aesthetically, functionally or in any other manner.
Last year the award was won by Chevin Homes, for Amber Farm, with Marchini Curran Associates (Phoenix cinema and art centre) and Trident Construction Services (Lark Hill Retirement Village refurbishment) runners up.
Upon winning, Dan Stack, director, Chevin Homes, said: “All at Chevin Homes are delighted to have won the Excellence in Design award for our Amber Farm development in Oakerthorpe. It is an event that we thoroughly enjoy as we get chance to catch up with contacts from across the East Midlands.”
This year’s Excellence in Design award will be sponsored by Cawarden. Speaking with Business Link, William Crooks, Managing Director at Cawarden, said: “Here at Cawarden, we’re proud to return as sponsors of the Excellence in Design category in the prestigious 2024 East Midlands Bricks Awards. As a Specialist Contractor, we understand the vital role innovative design plays in shaping our built environment.
“Last year’s event showcased the remarkable talent and creativity within our region, and we’re eager to once again celebrate those pushing the boundaries of design excellence. Our commitment to sponsoring this category stems from our belief in the power of visionary design to transform spaces and enrich communities.”
Sharing advice for those entering the awards, Crooks added: “For those contemplating a nomination, our foremost advice is to embrace boldness and innovation. Demonstrate how your project pioneers new frontiers and positively impacts the environment, people, or communities. We eagerly anticipate reviewing the exceptional submissions and paying tribute to the visionaries propelling design excellence in the East Midlands.”
Submit your nominations for Excellence in Designherebefore entries close on Thursday 5th September.
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd 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 Paul Southby.
Other award categories open for entry include: Most Active Estate Agent, Contractor of the Year, Responsible Business of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, and Sustainable 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 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Book your tickets now
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – clickhere to secure yours.
The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
New figures show that Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) receipts collected by HMRC between 2023-24 has decreased by 6% compared to the previous year, totalling £285m – matching the increase in plastic packaging that meets the 30% recycled content test.
The number of companies registered to pay the tax rose very slightly by 527, now standing at 4669.
The tax was announced in the Budget in 2018 and officially introduced in April 2022, making this the first year the statistics could be compared. The tax applies to manufacturers and importers of plastic packaging components which contain less than 30% recycled plastic.
Those whose packaging contains the 30% recycled plastic content are exempt but must still register with HMRC and prove the 30% threshold has been met.
Chris Morgan, Tax Director at BDO, said: “This is still a fairly new tax, with many businesses still getting their heads around the details.
“Many businesses who technically fall into the net will be overseas entities, importing goods into the UK and there is a chance that the very small increase of just 527 companies registered to pay the tax means some are falling through HMRC’s net.
“The fact that there has been a 22% fall in plastic packaging imported into the UK may indicate that importers are switching to other packaging to reduce their exposure to PPT.
“The 6% decrease in the value of receipts collected is likely a result of several factors. More businesses are investing in their supply chains to ensure their packaging meets the 30% minimum recycled materials threshold or ensuring they can prove this to HMRC.
“However, it’s worth remembering that the PPT charged per tonne of plastic has increased by inflation, so without that, the decrease in revenue would likely be significantly higher.
“We can see from these stats that the actual tonnage of taxable plastic packaging has decreased by around 12%, but the tonnage declared with 30% or more recycled plastic, has increased by 6%.
“While this is a good start, looking ahead, the new Labour Government will want to ensure they keep up the pressure on businesses using plastic packaging. As well as increasing the charge each year, this may involve trying to ensure more overseas businesses are aware of the tax and informed of their obligations to register, even if they are exempt.
“There is also a strong chance that the government will impose incremental increases to the 30% recycled plastic threshold, putting further pressure on businesses reduce the use of virgin plastic.”
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Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd 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 
