Lauren joins CMP Legal as Employment Director
Chesterfield-based CMP Legal has appointed Lauren Pickard as its new Employment Director. Lauren is a specialist Employment Law Solicitor and joins CMP Legal from national law firm Knights plc where she worked as a Senior Associate, previously based in Sheffield. She has a wealth of knowledge and employment law experience from managing performance, disciplinary and grievance matters to redundancy and restructuring advice, delivering training, drafting contracts and more.
Lauren said: “CMP Legal has swiftly established itself as a niche practice offering high quality advice. The lawyers at CMP Legal have a wealth of experience and this, combined with their desire to do things in a dynamic and progressive way, works strongly to the benefit of clients.”
Neil Brown, Co-Founder at CMP Legal says: “Lauren has an excellent reputation in the region and will be a fantastic asset to both our business and our clients. We are delighted to welcome her into our expanding team as we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients.”
Multi award winning Derbyshire Architects celebrates 25 years
Matthew Montague Architects are celebrating 25 years in business. Formed in 1998 by architect Matthew Montague the business has evolved and grown into one of the largest, independent architects’ practices in the region.
The name Montague has long been synonymous with the built environment in Derby and across the Midlands. Derek Montague, Matthew’s father founded Montague Architects in 1969. Matthew worked at his fathers practice for 10 years before starting Matthew Montague Architects (MMA).
Over the past quarter of a century the practice has won over 20 awards for its designs including RIBA regional awards for housing, numerous civic and conservation awards and East Midlands Architects Practice of the Year 2019.
Back in 1998; working from his home office Matthew commenced his first solo commercial project; the refurbishment and extension of Lonsdale House for travel agents, Lonsdale Travel. The project comprised extension and refurbishment, it was at this time that the original mill building was almost doubled in size and the rotunda constructed. In 1998 the building had already been extended, an annexe was built in 1995, designed by Matthew whilst he was working at his father’s practice. The project took a year to complete and was awarded the George Larkin award in the same year for ‘Recognition of a significant improvement to the City of Derby’s Environment.’
Matthew commented, ‘I remember the time vividly, the A6 is one of the main arteries into the city and I wanted to create a visual gateway and Lonsdale Travel wanted a statement building. It was a £450,000 contract which was a healthy budget back then, I remember receiving my first cheque several months into the project, I’ll never forget it and to receive an award was the icing on the cake. Matthew Montague Architects, was off and running!’
In 2002 the practice moved to offices on Friar Gate as it continued to grow, projects in the 2000’s included St Benedicts School, the school Mathew attended, Derby Theatre, Denby Pottery, Derby County Football Clubs World Cup bid, the Clough Taylor Memorial, East Midlands Airport and G F Tomlinson builders HQ in Little Eaton.
In 2011 the practice merged with AFS Architects, the first job for Repton School also commenced in this year. The association with Repton School spans more than a decade, the practice has worked on many projects for the school including The Quad building, IT Block, the Theatre, Headmasters House and new sports facilities.
Matthew said ‘we have been working with Repton School for over a decade; the dining room at Repton Preparatory School (Foremarke as it was) is one of the buildings that I am most proud of. It was designed by my colleague Daniel Evans and is a fantastic example of the synergy between old and new; it is a modern, practical building set perfectly in a historic setting. We are currently working on several other projects for the school as part of their 5-year improvement plan, it is an association I am very proud of.’
The practice relocated to The Cheese Factory in 2013, a building Matthew purchased from the Buildings at Risk Register and painstakingly restored and converted.
2017 was a busy year for the Practice as it merged with Montague Architects once again strengthening the team and in a sense completing the circle which started back in 1969.
The practice emerged from COVID, staff returned to the office and the practice completed 100 domestic projects, in one year, the most it has ever done.
Recently the practice has worked extensively with The University of Derby on its vision of how the University intends to develop its city centre footprint and improve connectivity between its sites. The City Masterplan focuses on the development of the area around One Friar Gate Square, Ford Street, Bridge Street, Agard Street and Nuns Street, in Derby.
Matthew, said: “it has been a fantastic opportunity to be involved with the masterplan, it is ambitious, forward thinking and will help shape the future development of the University and the city, bringing new opportunities for students and businesses, it’s something we are proud to be involved with.”
Roll-Royce appoints new man to join the Board of its Small Modular Reactor business
Rolls-Royce SMR has appointed Neil Fleming, above, as a Director on its board representing Rolls-Royce PLC.
Neil took his place on the board of the Derby-based company, charged with creating Small Modular Reactor technology, to replace Ben Fidler, who resigned from the board after leaving Rolls-Royce.
Neil is the Rolls-Royce Group Mergers & Acquisitions Director, based in London. He leads a team based in the UK and Germany with oversight of all M&A activity (including acquisitions, divestments, and joint ventures) across the Group.
Neil joined Rolls-Royce in October last year with nearly two decades of global experience in M&A, strategy and partnerships across multiple sectors including energy, infrastructure, and industrial technology. Neil has previously served on the board of directors for several companies in the UK and Europe.
Rolls-Royce SMR Chairman Paul Stein said: “I’d like to thank Ben for all his hard work, support and commitment and I wish him the very best of luck as he pursues new opportunities.
“We’re glad to have Neil representing Rolls-Royce on our board; his knowledge and experience will be a vital asset at such an exciting time.”
Neil added: “Rolls-Royce SMR has real potential and is central to the delivery of several of Rolls-Royce’s key objectives including net zero, supply security, UK economic contribution and exports. I’m delighted to be involved and look forward to helping move forward at pace.”
Rolls-Royce signs MoU with Ukraine to pave the way for post-war rebuild
Rolls-Royce SMR has signed an agreement with Energoatom – Ukraine’s national nuclear energy generating company – paving the way for the two companies to work together at the possibilities of deploying Rolls-Royce SMRs in the Ukraine when the country begins its re-build.
In the document Rolls-Royce SMR makes a commitment to support the rebuild of Ukraine with its factory-built Small Modular Reactor power station – each capable of generating enough carbon-free electricity to power a million homes for more than 60 years.
The Rolls-Royce SMR CEO Tom Samson said: “The UK Government has led global efforts to support Ukraine and its people, it is an honour to support these efforts. We first began discussions with a Ukrainian utility company before the Russian invasion, after they saw how their country could benefit from a fleet of SMRs.
“Through Britain’s sovereign nuclear technology, we can potentially help the people of the Ukraine rebuild rapidly and restore their energy security and their independence.”
Petro Kotin, President of Energoatom, said Ukraine was continuing its course towards energy independence, which was impossible to imagine without advanced nuclear technology. He said: “The cooperation between Energoatom and Rolls-Royce SMR has reached a new level. Today we signed an agreement that will allow Ukraine not only to start an efficient post-war recovery of the energy infrastructure, but also to become one of the first countries in the world to attract promising technologies of small modular reactors for this purpose.”
Chance to dream becomes reality – N’hants community garden celebrates lottery funding
A Northamptonshire business centred around a community garden concept that “grows people” is celebrating after receiving a National Lottery award from the National Lottery Community Fund.
“Sol Haven”, run by Sammuel Yisrael and Natasha Caton in Moulton, hosts wellbeing projects, particularly for people who have experienced hardship and has delivered wellbeing events to over 500 people, including many vulnerable and homeless individuals.
Last year, after receiving commendation as “Points of Light” in parliament and a letter from the prime minister for their tireless work and impact, they also began to roll out these “Ploughing The Mind” workshops and projects to SMEs.
This sees employers and employers spending time at the garden with the Sol Haven team and their specialist consultants to work on wellbeing within the workplace.
Now, with the latest funding, Sol Haven will be able to treble the size and scale of their work, which co-founder Sammuel Yisrael will make a significant impact to many more people.
‘It is wonderful news that we have received this incredible support from the National Lottery Community Fund,’ explains Sammuel.
‘The work we do has the power to create and sustain incredibly positive change in people, whether they are signposted to us from health professionals and counsellors or visiting us as part of a corporate wellbeing day. We’d be honoured to welcome enquiries from any businesses that are exploring their wellness strategies and delighted to create a bespoke experience for them.’
‘Of course, this positive change cannot be achieved without a high class team and matching resources, all of which takes time and money. The funding will not only make a big difference to us as a business but to many more people who can hopefully now come and visit us to explore our concept as a “community garden where people grow”.
Prior to the funding announcement, Sol Haven also boosted their Artists in Residence programme which is run in partnership with C2C Social Action and The Hope Centre.
Sarclad employees’ hike raises £2,000 for Turkish earthquake relief funds
More than two dozen employees from specialist metals industry supplier Sarclad have stepped up to the challenge of a 10-mile sponsored hike in the stunning surroundings of the Peak District’s Hope Valley.
Rotherham-based Sarclad has a strong network of customers and contacts in Turkey, and had a team on the ground in the country at the time the earthquake struck, project managed by Alan Breeze.
Alan, who came up with the idea of the sponsored hike, said: “I was very impressed with the Sarcald team who pulled together to support this emergency. We are really delighted to have raised over £2k for the relief campaign so far and would welcome further donations.’’
Former Register Office to be regenerated as home for counselling service
Beighton Construction is overseeing the 14-week refurbishment of the former Chesterfield register office on Beetwell Street for charity Derwent Rural Counselling Service.
The company will carry out roof works, an internal strip out, a new damp proofing system and new electrics.
Inside the refurbishment project will include plastering, internal walls, decoration and floors plus new toilets and a lift with a view to the building opening this summer, and an official launch event in September.
Beighton Construction director Andrew Holmes said: “The works have started externally with scaffold erection, followed by the installation of new perimeter gutters by the roofing team.
“Internally, once the strip out works have taken place, the basement will be prepared for a new damp proofing system and structural alterations will be made to various walls and the first floor in readiness for the new lift.
“New floor screeds and plaster repairs will be carried out through the building, including the construction of new partition walls. Mechanical and electrical works will also run alongside the building works for the duration of the project.”
Final plans for the three storey premises, set to open in summer 2023, include office space, treatment and consulting rooms, meeting rooms and relaxation space to help cope with an increased demand for DRCS services in the area plus tenanted options including rooms and floorspace.
Janette Smeeton, chief executive at DRCS, said: “I am pleased that we are now moving forward on this important scheme that will be the largest building housing talking therapies in the county, and know the people of Chesterfield and beyond will benefit from having high quality facilities in the heart of the town.
“Restoring and reintroducing the building to community use will give it a new purpose, and allow us to deliver a high-quality service to support our service users, and offer room rentals and services to other organisations in the town.”
Over the last 30 years, DRCS has become the largest third sector provider of counselling services in the region offering help to individuals, via self referral or via a GP, with common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress and long term conditions through counselling, CBT, guided self-help, and other forms of talking therapy.
In the last eight years, DRCS has been in partnership with Derbyshire Healthcare Foundation Trust to improve access to psychological therapies throughout Derbyshire achieving above national recovery rates and shorter waiting times.
Pick Everard on the move to Sadler Bridge Studios
independent property, construction, and infrastructure consultancy Pick Everard has moved its Derby operation to Sadler Bridge Studios, part of the Connect Derby portfolio of managed workspaces.
The company is making the move from Kenning Studios on Queen Street to Sadler Bridge Studios as part of a wider national office strategy enabling the business to adopt more agile and collaborative ways of working for its growing 650-plus work force; specifically for its team of 30 based at the Derby Studio.
The Derby office directly supports a range of commissions with important locally based clients including Bowmer + Kirkland, Rolls-Royce, Nottingham Trent University, Leicester Tigers, Derbyshire County Cricket Club and PMI Developments.
Sadler Bridge Studios is located in the heart of Derby’s commercial district, close to shops, bars, and public transport links. The purpose-built workspace was constructed in 2014 and has 35 units in a three-storey modern multi-occupancy office building. SBS also contains RASK, a Scandinavian-style café on the ground floor.
Partner David Nisbet said: “The location of our new home in the heart of the city is perfect for us, and the facilities are ideal for our evolving office portfolio.
“Our aim is to provide outstanding services to our clients and communities, developing our agile and collaborative style of working.
“The team at Connect Derby has been very accommodating and have enabled us to achieve a seamless transition into our new office space.
Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “I’d like to welcome such a long-standing and well-established business as Pick Everard to Sadler Bridge Studios. They are a great addition to the range of creative businesses already based here.
“Sadler Bridge Studios’ city centre location is proving increasingly popular with businesses looking for a flexible and hybrid working environment. We now boast a diverse community of new and established businesses from across the creative industries and the supply chain to the creative industries.”
Sadler Bridge Studios is one of seven buildings within the diverse Connect Derby portfolio alongside Friar Gate Studios, Kings Chambers, Shot Tower, Riverside Chambers and the iconic Marble Hall on Nightingale Road in Osmaston.
Bloc Digital launches US business as base for growth in America
Marketing content and digital solutions specialist Bloc Digital has launched a US business to unlock further opportunities for growth in North America.
The establishment of Bloc Digital Inc comes as the company continues to experience sustained and increasing expansion in the US market, seeing an 80% increase in income within the last year.
This latest milestone in the business’ development is being consolidated with a trade mission to the US, during which Bloc Digital’s co-founders Keith Cox and Chris Hotham will be welcomed by prominent US companies, such as Nordson Corporation and Rolls-Royce Defence America.
The visit is being hosted by the Chamber of Commerce in Mentor, Ohio – a centrally located hub for industrial and manufacturing businesses.
Keith said: “The digital nature of our business gives us a truly global reach and has enabled us to work successfully with American clients for many years.
“Building on our growth and the foundations we laid prior to global Covid disruptions, we are thrilled to establish Bloc Digital Inc and be transitioning from a business with international clients into being an international business ourselves.”
Bloc Digital supports industry through digital solutions and marketing material, with six core disciplines: design, 3D modelling, animation, immersive (VR and AR), development (web and app), and data.
Its technology and services help clients to work smarter, be more connected, and have greater impact on their customers and markets.
Chris said: “We’re looking forward to connecting with several high-profile companies in the US who are already impressed by our portfolio and are excited by the new opportunities and collaborations our trade mission will bring.”
Green light for iconic £6m development at Derbyshire marina despite ‘Government obstacles’.
Plans for a new £6m mixed-use building at the site of the UK’s largest inland marina have been approved despite complaints that Government policy discourages entrepreneurial investment.
South Derbyshire District Council this week approved Mercia Marina’s proposed Promenade building, an iconic glass, stone and timber structure housing 14 apartments above seven ground floor retail units.
The planning application, lodged more than 12 months ago, succeeded due to what the marina’s owner John Thornton describes as ‘foresight’ of the local authority, which recognised the scheme’s £11.9m estimated benefit to the local economy over 10 years and the creation of 43 new jobs.
Yet John, former CEO of Derbyshire-based chocolate manufacturer Thorntons, also criticised recent Government policy and attitudes which, he claims, offer few incentives to regional private investment schemes such the Promenade development.
Construction of the Promenade, which the marina expects to begin in around 12 months, follows the completion of two similar developments on the 77-acre site over the past decade – the Boardwalk and Piazza – which have won national awards for architecture.
The Promenade will replace three existing buildings, one of which was originally a timber fishing hut prior to the marina opening 15 years ago and is now a much-loved tea room that will relocate to the new building.
John, founding partner of Mercia Marina, which sits next to the Trent & Mersey Canal at Willington, Derbyshire, said: “We are delighted this iconic new building has received planning approval from South Derbyshire District Council (SDDC).
“We very much hope and believe that the Promenade, which is in keeping with the style of the existing Piazza and Boardwalk buildings, will, when built, become a heritage asset complementing the Canal Conservation Area.
“It has been a slow and difficult process. But it is thanks to the foresight, support and leadership of South Derbyshire District Council, which realises that the region’s economic, employment and cultural welfare depend upon the encouragement of private investment, that the project has been approved.
“When the economy strengthens, inflation recedes and confidence returns, we look forward to bringing the project to fruition.”
John said that the planning application had succeeded despite, not because of, recent UK Government policy.
“We hope that our national leaders will quickly come to realise that it is only through encouragement rather than the recent destruction of private initiative and investment that our country will be able to create the jobs and wealth needed to provide for the future wellbeing of all,” he said.
“The great wealth and social progress created in this country during the nineteenth century was through private rather than public investment, and the levelling up that everyone wishes to see throughout the nation will only be realised when the conditions necessary to encourage and foster local private initiative and investment are created.”
Mercia Marina has grown from a former fishing lake in a gravel pit to becoming one of the leading leisure and tourism businesses in the East Midlands, attracting around 800,000 visitors annually.
The marina supports more than 300 jobs directly, and many more indirectly. An Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) submitted with the latest planning application estimates that the site contributes £18.8m per year towards the local economy (including £9.1m to the visitor economy), with the Promenade set to add a further £11.9m over the next 10 years.
