Vice-chairmanship of ethics committee awarded to East Midlands accountant

Stuart Pearcey
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Vice-chairmanship of ethics committee awarded to East Midlands accountant

East Midlands accountant and ethics adviser Stuart Brown from Duncan & Toplis has been appointed as vice-chair of the Ethics and Advisory Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales for the next three years.

Mr Brown, who has been a member of the ICAEW’s Ethics Advisory Committee since 2021 and the organisation’s Members and Commercial Board since 2023, is also a Director and Head of Technical and Compliance at Lincolnshire-based Duncan & Toplis.

He said: “Over recent years the accountancy profession has justifiably been under intense scrutiny because it is essential that accountants are reliable, honest and trustworthy professionals with absolute integrity. I believe that ethics is the foundation of being a Chartered Accountant and we must all play our part in upholding the reputation of our profession.

“It is a great honour to be selected as the vice-chair of this committee, helping to maintain the standards for accountants around the world.”

Damon Brain, CEO of Duncan & Toplis, said: “It says a lot about Duncan & Toplis and our commitment to accounting ethics when a leading member of our team is appointed as the vice-chair of the Ethics Advisory Committee at the ICAEW, one of our profession’s most respected membership bodies.

“We pride ourselves on upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism and we’re passionate about doing right by our people, our clients and our communities. I’m sure Stuart will make an excellent vice-chair of this committee and I’d like to congratulate him on his appointment.”

Grade II listed office building sold in Leicester City Centre

Tess Egginton
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Grade II listed office building sold in Leicester City Centre
Andrew + Ashwell has sold Berkeley House, a Grade II listed office premises located in the heart of Leicester City Centre. The 14,722 square foot property, renowned for its architectural significance and close proximity to Leicester Railway Station, has been acquired by CECOS Capital Ltd, reflecting continued confidence in Leicester’s commercial property market. The property is an example of Leicester’s rich architectural heritage. Designed by Percy Herbert Grundy, a Leicester architect, who originally configured the property for Goddard’s Silver Plate Powder and Polish firm, the property is an impressive example of art deco design which boasts a number of ornate features, including large span curtain walling, crittall lights and expansive internal ceiling lights. Despite its historical significance and original construction as a factory, the building has offered a mixture of open-plan and cellular office accommodation for some years and will continue in this vein with its new owner. CECOS Capital Ltd, the new owner, is excited to integrate this iconic building into their portfolio. Jawad Tanveer, Director, said: “We are delighted to acquire such a distinguished property in Leicester City Centre. “This building not only represents a significant investment opportunity for our business but also aligns with our vision of preserving historical landmarks while promoting modern business environments. We look forward to continuing its legacy and ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Leicester’s architectural and commercial landscape.” Joe Dodd, Associate Director of Andrew + Ashwell, said: “This transaction highlights the strength and resilience of Leicester’s commercial property market and despite media uncertainty, the continued need for office space in a central location. “Whilst there is a lack of Grade A accommodation within Leicester, the sale of Berkeley House represents demand for larger office footprints and a desire to be positioned within the City. We are pleased to have facilitated this sale for an existing client and contributed to the ongoing vibrancy of Leicester’s city centre.”

Historic Derbyshire mill complex set for transformation into apartments and houses

Tess Egginton
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Historic Derbyshire mill complex set for transformation into apartments and houses
Matthew Montague Architects have submitted a planning application to Derbyshire Dales District Council for the conversion of a 300-year-old derelict mill complex located near Matlock in Derbyshire. The proposal aims to breathe new life into the derelict Lumsdale Mill by converting it into 11 apartments and 14 houses, offering a blend of modern residential living combined with the rich heritage and beauty of the site. The planning application proposes converting the former mill into apartments, with additional houses to be constructed within the surrounding grounds. If planning permission is granted the development will include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments plus a number of bespoke affordable homes; making much needed accommodation in the area available to a range of residents. With a total of 59 parking spaces planned for the site, the project aims to strike a balance between historical preservation and modern functionality. Architect at Matthew Montague Architects, Paul Myers said: “The redevelopment of the site will provide much needed quality accommodation whilst preserving and securing the buildings for many years to come. The new dwellings combine heritage, innovation and sustainability; it will be a great place to live.” The mill complex was originally built as the Farnsworth Bleach Works in the 17th century, it has been used for various business over the years; most recently a printing business. The remaining outbuildings would become commercial and business premises, adding a dynamic dimension to the revitalisation of the area. Matthew Montague said: “Because the buildings are in a varying state of disrepair and lack modern facilities, they are basically not viable for ongoing commercial use. “With considered design the new development will fund the restoration of important historic structures and ensure the long-term preservation of the site, whilst providing great new facilities for business to work from.” He concluded: “It’s a fantastic site, that is significant to the county’s history. We are delighted to be involved with its evolution and to help develop and preserve it for the next hundred years.” A decision on the comprehensive scheme is expected from the district council in the coming months.

Kindeva Drug Delivery expands in Loughborough

Tess Egginton
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Kindeva Drug Delivery expands in Loughborough
Global drug-device combination product CDMO, Kindeva Drug Delivery has expanded its Loughborough facilities at the Charnwood Campus Science Innovation and Technology Park. This strategic move by Kindeva supports the growth of green propellant commercialization and secures a dedicated space for the company’s commercial analytical laboratory services team who will be housed at this location after renovations are completed later this year. The move doubles Kindeva’s UK laboratory footprint, expands operations, and will relocate approximately 50 quality control employees from Kindeva’s Loughborough manufacturing site. The company just announced its investment in a second manufacturing line for the production of pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) products containing low GWP (Global Warming Potential) propellants at this facility. This additional space also offers potential for further expansion to support future innovation and sustainability opportunities, including development and other supporting capabilities in one location. “As Kindeva continues to grow worldwide, this expansion is one more step in furthering the commercialization of our customers’ low GWP pMDI products,” says Carl Brookes, Vice President, Manufacturing and Operations – Loughborough at Kindeva. “This is an exciting time for green propellants, and Kindeva is committed to remaining at the forefront of these product transitions supporting a greener planet. As Kindeva continues to develop more sustainable technologies and processes, we are constantly evaluating the potential across all our drug-device platforms and our sites. “Our expansion on Charnwood Campus will help Kindeva continue to advance with leading facilities for our employees who are tasked with ensuring some of the highest standards of quality and safety for the products we make, and ultimately improving the health of patients we serve.”

Construction starts on 500,000 sq ft warehouse at Infinity Park Derby

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Construction starts on 500,000 sq ft warehouse at Infinity Park Derby
With up to 1,000 new jobs to be created, Logicor, the owner, manager and developer of European logistics real estate, has begun construction of a new logistics building, Derby 507, at Infinity Park Derby. The site will offer over 500,000 sq ft of premium warehouse space, with a significant number of jobs generated both during the construction phase and when the building is complete. A new link road will also be constructed connecting Infinity Park Derby to a new dedicated junction on the A50. Works are due to start in 2025. Logicor will work with Infinity Park Derby LLP to deliver Derby 507 to the highest sustainability targets, aiming for BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and an EPC rating of ‘A’ status. The construction will also deliver 17% biodiversity net gain, offer secure cycle storage and EV storage for both cars and HGVs. Derby 507 is located on Infinity Park Derby, a 100-acre development with Enterprise Zone Status (EZS).
“We know there is local and national need for high quality, sustainably built logistics real estate in order to meet consumer demand – driven largely by ecommerce,” said Charlie Howard, Managing Director, UK at Logicor. “Derby 507 will play its part in meeting that need. It has the potential to support over 1,000 jobs in Derby as well as real time improvements to the surrounding road network with the new link road bypassing the main city area. “Located within the Derby Enterprise Zone and so close to the road networks, it is an attractive prospect for those businesses looking from which to base their operations and we are looking forward to introducing this scheme to new and existing customers in 2025.”
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Logicor, to deliver Derby 507. The main build contract has now been awarded to Bowmer & Kirkland, who successfully oversaw the adjacent Oregon Timber Frame development for us,” said Nick Richardson, Infinity Park Derby LLP. “Our focus is ensuring that the scheme is delivered on time, in budget and a high-quality product is ultimately produced. “As well as constructing Derby 507, the project will also see the acceleration of a large proportion of the new link road being delivered through our Infinity Park Derby development. “The remainder of the works, including a new junction onto the A50, should commence next year and improve the existing access arrangements for Infinity Park as a whole, as well as opening up the wider South Derby Growth Zone area, benefitting from a further 3.5m sq ft of employment space coming forward.”

Wavensmere Homes makes strategic appointment with new role

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Wavensmere Homes makes strategic appointment with new role
Regeneration specialist Wavensmere Homes has appointed Olivia Smith into the newly created role of Private Client Relationship Manager. Olivia will be responsible for nurturing the housebuilder’s customer sales relationships, with £1bn of new homes due to be launched, or in planning. Olivia Smith joins Wavensmere Homes from Derby-based Ashley Adams Estate Agents, where she was based for close to four years, having been promoted into the role of Sales Account Manager. Previously, Miss Smith was a New Homes Sales Negotiator for Spicer Haart. She transitioned into a new homes sales role with the national estate agency brand in 2019, having commenced her career as a Senior Lettings Negotiator for Connells Estate Agents, based in Lichfield. James Dickens, Managing Director for Wavensmere Homes, said: “Olivia has sold our homes at consecutive developments across the Midlands during the past five years. While working for us indirectly, she has been a great company ambassador and understands our ethos and vision. “During Olivia’s career to date, she has sold over 300 new houses and apartments. While doing so, she has grown her own investor platform, establishing and maintaining relationships with purchasers that loyally follow her from site to site. “We have structured this newly created role around Olivia’s skillset, as she has a strong appreciation of the importance of client relationships. Her commitment to meeting individual requirements and investment goals underpins Wavensmere’s customer journey, but by selling via a third-party agent, there is a risk this can be diluted. “Olivia’s timely appointment will enable us to take a more strategic approach to the sales launches for our upcoming developments.” Olivia Smith, Private Client Relationship Manager for Wavensmere Homes, said: “I am delighted to be joining such a dynamic housebuilding business that is leading the way nationally for the delivery of new homes on brownfield land. “The consequential ripple effect Wavensmere’s transformational projects have on the wider area are enabling investors to reap much higher returns than other comparative residential investments. “Despite the challenges the industry has faced, it has been a joy to see how the Wavensmere brand has accrued a loyal following over recent years. This is testament to the build quality, value for money, customer care, and the dedication and significant investment to placemaking and provision of on-site community amenities. “I am excited to take the leap to an in-house role and take on the responsibility for working with Wavensmere’s existing database of 500 committed investors.”

Clegg Group partners with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust

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Clegg Group partners with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust
Nottingham-based construction specialists, Clegg Group, has partnered with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust as part of its commitment to the environment and sustainability, making nature part of its business with mutual benefits to both parties. Clegg Group has become a Business Partner of the charity, which is the leading wildlife conservation charity working to protect and enhance the wildlife and habitats of Nottinghamshire. Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, based at the Old Ragged School in Brook Street, Nottingham, has charitable aims to protect Nottinghamshire’s wildlife, restore biodiversity, and inspire people about the natural world. One of their goals is for at least 30% of land to be connected and protected for nature’s recovery by 2030. The charity states that 30% is the bare minimum that nature needs to start recovering and that we are far short of this currently. The sponsorship for the partnership has come from Clegg Group’s Charity Fund – used to support local worthy causes and aligns with the Group’s aim of promoting environmental sustainability, protecting wildlife, and promoting health and well-being. Mark Hyde, business development manager at Clegg Construction, which is part of Clegg Group, and is also a trustee of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, said: “One of the Trust’s aims is to inspire at least one in four people in Nottinghamshire to take action for wildlife, at home, at work, at school or in their neighbourhood. “We are delighted that Clegg Group has become a Business Partner of the Trust, helping to raise awareness of the Trust and its aims, and to offer support for the charity. “Clegg Group is a Nottingham-based company, working in the county as well as further afield, and many of our team also live here. As such, we’re keen to do our bit to help protect nature and our local environment, as well as support important good causes like Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. “Being a trustee of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is a privilege and something I enjoy, and I am very pleased that Clegg Group is also now getting involved formally to support this very worthwhile charity.” As part of the partnership with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, there will be opportunities for Clegg Group staff to get involved in various initiatives around environmental sustainability, protecting wildlife and health and well-being promotion. Emily Patrick, Business Partnerships Lead at Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, said: “We are thrilled to have the support of local businesses like Clegg Group who want to see change in Nottinghamshire. Without the support of our business partners, volunteers and members we wouldn’t be able to make the impact we do for wildlife.”

Growth at Vines Legal sees move to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

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Growth at Vines Legal sees move to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre
A niche law firm is moving to Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, following  growth in the town. Vines Legal specialises exclusively in family law, and has been operating since 2009, originally moving into its first Chesterfield premises in 2012. Since then the team has grown organically, resulting in a move to one of the town’s flagship office developments. Catherine Wenborn, Managing Director at Vines Legal, said: “We have found moving our premises to Chesterfield a very positive experience. “The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre ticks all the boxes for this business. We wanted modern, professional office space in the centre of Chesterfield. The Enterprise Centre allows opportunities for the team to expand in the future and provides great opportunities to network with other local businesses who are tenants here. “Chesterfield is a great place to live and work. It has great transport links to all parts of the country and the business and economic growth within the town is very positive.” Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re delighted to see Vines Legal growing and investing in Chesterfield, culminating in their move to the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. “The success of the centre has been there for all to see, with dozens of thriving organisations now operating from it. “Our town is an excellent place to support the growth of businesses thanks to its strategic location and supportive business community. With excellent transport links and a skilled workforce, Chesterfield offers a perfect blend of opportunity and growth potential.”

Scunthorpe United splits ownership

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Scunthorpe United splits ownership
Scunthorpe United has announced a split of ownership between four of the club’s Directors. Chairperson Michelle Harness has allocated shares to Roj Rahman, George Aitkenhead and Ian Sharp, with the quartet now assuming equal joint ownership of Scunthorpe United Football Club with immediate effect. Speaking about the decision to divide the club, Michelle said: “Nine months ago, I took 92% of the shares of the football club from the previous owner and had Roj, George and Ian at my side from day one. “Since September, we have all worked extremely hard to battle the debt we inherited and work towards a more sustainable model. We’re not there yet, but we have made significant strides, and are on course to achieve this in the coming months. “While we are at the stage where we can run from day-to-day on this sustainable model, I simply cannot grow the football club on my own, and I must also look to safeguard the business should anything happen to me, and should the football club need some additional support. “Roj, George and Ian have shown a massive amount of commitment to this football club, and have made a big impact in helping us get to where we are today. Having them in joint ownership with myself will only help us progress further as we look to grow our reputation back to the well-run business that we can remember from years gone by. “I’d also like to thank all the staff at the football club for their tremendous work ethic, determination and drive to bring us through the last nine months, and to the other members of my Board of Directors, who have all done some incredible work in assisting us to get to this stage. “I have no doubt you will show your unwavering support to Roj, George and Ian, like you have shown to me so far.” Vice Chairman Roj Rahman added: “What Michelle has achieved in the last nine months is nothing short of sensational. She will always be our Iron Lady, and everyone associated with Scunthorpe United will forever have the upmost admiration for what she has done to ensure there is, and will always be, a football club within our community. “We’re all just custodians of this football club at the end of the day, and nothing will change as a result of this joint ownership. Scunthorpe United is a club that will always be for the supporters, for the community, and that will not change, regardless of who has the majority of the shares. “Having had to go through an awful lot in nine months, Michelle wished to further safeguard the future of Scunthorpe United by welcoming George, Ian and I as joint owners. It’s something we’re all delighted to accepted. The hard work doesn’t stop, it only continues to grow, as we work to provide a football club for us all to be proud of.” Following the splitting of the club’s ownership, Michelle Harness will continue as the club’s Chairperson, while Roj Rahman will continue as Vice Chair.

Fire sprinkler firm snapped up

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Fire sprinkler firm snapped up
Compliance Group, the integrated provider of safety and regulatory compliance services across electrical, fire, and water, has revealed its latest merger with Kettering-based CT Fire Protection. CT Fire Protection joins Compliance Group’s Fire Division to deliver high-quality fire sprinkler systems and associated services. Founded in 1995 by Curtis and Toni Waters, CT Fire Protection specialises in fire sprinkler systems and fire pumps, as well as dry and wet risers, fire hydrants, and fire hose reels. Julian Williams, CEO of Compliance Group’s Fire Division, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome CT Fire Protection into our Fire Division. CT exemplifies exceptional customer service backed by technical excellence. Adding sprinkler services will greatly enhance our offering to our customers.” Curtis and Toni Waters added: “We are thrilled to join Compliance Group. Our customers, some of whom have been with us for over 25 years, will benefit from the investment in our business infrastructure and access to a wider array of compliance services.”
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