Freeths names first recipients of newly launched bursary programme

Tess Egginton
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Freeths names first recipients of newly launched bursary programme
Law firm Freeths has named the first two students who have been accepted onto its newly launched bursary programme. They are Umamah Faquirbhai from De Montfort University (DMU) and Maymunah Valimia from the University of Leicester. The bursary will provide the local undergraduate law students with £4,000 annually, during their second and third years at university, as well as wider support from the firm during this time. This includes mentoring, a paid summer placement and an interview for the firm’s graduate apprenticeship scheme, based in Leicester. Having impressed senior leaders at Freeths during an assessment day, both Maymunah and Umamah are now determined to make the most of this opportunity. Maymunah said: “I come from a low-income family, but I don’t want that to stop me. I’m determined to become a great lawyer and I’m up for the challenge. When I researched Freeths, I loved what I found and had a feeling this was right for me.” Umamah continued: “This opportunity is a real stepping stone for me. I want to do my best for my entire family. I work part-time as an exam invigilator and the bursary means I can now work fewer hours and focus on my studies.” The bursary was established in memory of Mukesh Patel, former Managing Partner of Freeths’ Leicester, who passed away in February 2023 aged 54, leaving behind his wife Rita and their two sons. Mukesh was a respected and popular member of Freeths and his local legal community. He was born and went to school in Leicester and led the firm’s regional Dispute Resolution team. He subsequently became Managing Partner in 2014. Freeths launched the scheme to honour Mukesh’s legacy and highlight his commitment to diversity and equality within the legal sphere and the local business community. The programme aims to continue Mukesh’s passion for opening doors for young people from less privileged backgrounds in Leicestershire. Lisa Gilligan, Managing Partner of Freeths Leicester, added: “We were delighted by the quality of applicants and both Umamah and Maymunah were stand out candidates and are worthy recipients of the bursary. “We’re really looking forward to welcoming them into the office for their summer work experience and it’s been great to get to know them during the application process. The firm’s commitment to the bursary is a fitting tribute to Mukesh’s legacy and one that he would have been proud of.”

East Lindsey Council moves to exit nuclear waste site process

April Lara
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East Lindsey Council moves to exit nuclear waste site process

East Lindsey District Council is preparing to withdraw from discussions on a potential nuclear waste storage site in Lincolnshire, signaling a shift in its stance on the controversial project.

The council initially joined a Working Group in 2021 to explore the feasibility of using the former gas terminal in Theddlethorpe as a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). However, Nuclear Waste Services (NWS), the government agency overseeing the project, has since identified a different location—four square kilometers of agricultural land between Gayton le Marsh and Great Carlton—as a preferred site.

Council leaders now argue that the new location, which has no history of industrial use and sits in a rural area near the Lincolnshire Wolds, is unsuitable for such a facility. The council has also raised concerns about additional infrastructure, including the potential construction of pylons in the area as part of the National Grid’s Grimsby to Walpole project.

As a result, East Lindsey District Council plans to withdraw from the process. However, Lincolnshire County Council remains involved, and a formal public support test is still planned for 2027. If the county council also withdraws, the siting process in Lincolnshire would likely end.

Nuclear Waste Services has acknowledged East Lindsey’s concerns and thanked the council for participating in the discussions. The agency is also considering two other potential sites in Cumbria.

Kettering Hospital to Expand Maternity Unit with £33M Investment

April Lara
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Kettering Hospital to Expand Maternity Unit with £33M Investment

Kettering General Hospital has secured NHS approval for a £33 million expansion of its maternity unit after structural issues forced a partial closure in 2023. The project, expected to be completed within two years, will include a new 32-bed facility and additional upgrades to improve maternity care.

The decision follows the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) in the roof of the hospital’s Rockingham Wing, a material commonly used in the 1970s that has since been found to deteriorate over time. The structural concerns led to significant disruption in maternity services, prompting urgent action to address the issue.

This investment is part of a broader government commitment of up to £1.5 billion for the hospital’s redevelopment. The University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) has worked closely with NHS England to determine the best approach to restoring and improving maternity services.

Construction in the broader hospital rebuild is scheduled between 2032 and 2034.

Derelict Derbyshire site to be transformed into watersports hub

April Lara
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Derelict Derbyshire site to be transformed into watersports hub

A long-abandoned garden centre in Cromford is set for redevelopment after Derbyshire Dales District Council approved plans for a new watersports facility. Peak UK Kayaking, a company known for designing gear used by Olympic athletes, will repurpose the former Cromford garden centre site along the A6 and canal.

The development will include facilities for Paddlepeak, the company’s charitable initiative, which introduces children to kayaking and supports river clean-up efforts along the Derwent. The project is also expected to create more than 10 jobs.

The garden centre, which has been vacant since 2006, has become a hotspot for trespassers and urban explorers. Local authorities have expressed support for the site’s revitalization, though concerns remain about sewage management and potential environmental impacts on the river.

Peak UK Kayaking, founded in the Lake District and operating in Cromford since 1995, has since expanded its operations and now produces 35,000 garments annually.

New Enterprise Centre completes at Arnold’s AMP building

Tess Egginton
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New Enterprise Centre completes at Arnold’s AMP building
Gedling Borough Council has completed its new Enterprise Centre at the flagship AMP building in Arnold. This space, designed to support local startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is now ready for use. The council have invested funds, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), into fitting out the previously vacant first floor of the AMP, transforming it into modern office spaces and a meeting room. The facilities also include parking, an EV charging point and a shower room, so that tenants can choose sustainable travel options. The AMP, located on the former Arnold Market site, opened in 2022 and has since become home to several successful small businesses on its ground floor. With the completion of the first-floor development, the centre will further support Gedling Borough Council’s priorities, including revitalising town centres, increasing footfall to the Arnold shopping precinct, and creating opportunities for local businesses. The building has been designed to use less energy, use more renewable energy and reduce its CO2 emissions. It has several energy efficient designs including 51 solar panels, natural ventilation points, and high efficiency LED lighting. The building is also fitted with rainwater retention tanks to offset carbon emissions and has an Energy Performance Rating ‘B’, which is above average for commercial property. Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the Enterprise Centre at the AMP. This new space will provide a vital resource for local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs looking for office space in the heart of Arnold. We’ve seen the success of the ground floor units and we are confident the first floor will follow suit, bringing more jobs and growth to the area.” Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy at Gedling Borough Council, said: “This sustainable project is part of our wider effort to support high streets, including free two-hour parking in all our car parks. “The AMP’s expansion is yet another step in our commitment to boosting the local economy and providing essential support for businesses. The energy efficiency measures will benefit new tenants and contribute to the council’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030”. The completion of this project comes as part of broader regeneration plans for the northern part of Arnold, including the council’s recent purchase of vacant units and the development of a masterplan aimed at attracting further investment into the town.

TBG Furniture secures private equity investment to drive growth

April Lara
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TBG Furniture secures private equity investment to drive growth

TBG Furniture, a leading manufacturer of upholstered furniture and soft furnishings, has secured investment from Blandford Capital in a deal that marks NorthEdge Capital’s exit from the business.

The company, which generates approximately £80 million in annual revenue, operates across the UK and internationally, supplying retailers, the leisure industry, and the furniture trade. It employs nearly 1,000 people across North Wales, Lancashire, Derbyshire, and Romania facilities.

Under the new ownership, CEO Tom Prestwich and the existing management team will continue to lead the business. The investment from Blandford Capital is expected to support further expansion and strengthen TBG’s position in both domestic and export markets.

The acquisition includes TBG’s key brands: Westbridge Furniture, Tetrad, Belfield Leisure, and Clinchplain. Blandford Capital’s involvement is aimed at capitalising on growth opportunities in the UK’s upholstered furniture sector while expanding international reach.

NorthEdge Capital, which has backed TBG Furniture since its ownership of the Belfield Group, has now exited the business as part of the transaction.

Dawson Group expands East Midlands operations with Newark storage site

April Lara
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Dawson Group expands East Midlands operations with Newark storage site

Asset leasing firm Dawson Group is expanding its presence in the East Midlands with a new storage site in Newark. The company has secured nearly five acres of land on Brunel Drive to support its industrial equipment leasing operations, which will continue to be managed from its Sutton-in-Ashfield base.

The location, situated less than a mile from the A1, provides easy access to key transport routes, enhancing Dawson Group’s ability to serve regional and national clients.

The lease agreement was facilitated by property agencies Eddisons and CPP on behalf of the landlord. The demand for secure open storage sites remains high, particularly in logistics and infrastructure-related sectors, as businesses seek strategically positioned locations to support supply chain operations.

Apprenticeship sector celebrated at glittering awards ceremony

Michael Fisher
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Apprenticeship sector celebrated at glittering awards ceremony
As part of its National Apprenticeship Week (10th to 16th February) festivities, the College welcomed apprentices, teaching staff and employers to recognise their outstanding achievements over the past year. The event was hosted by Laura Shepherd, Loughborough College’s Director of Strategic Partnerships and External Relationships, who led the celebrations by highlighting the successes of all involved. She said: “Apprenticeships form a key part of what makes Loughborough College so special, and we are proud of our expanding provision across several key sectors in the Midlands, including Engineering, Warehousing and Logistics, and Education and Care. “Not only were we impressed by the amount of award nominations we received, but the calibre of talent as well. Getting to read about the fantastic work that goes on across the industry was truly inspiring. Well done to all of our nominees, finalists and winners.” The eight awards were split into three main categories: Employer of the Year, Special Awards and Apprentice of the Year. Each one highlighted the award winner’s dedication to the apprenticeship sector and their commitment to developing the workforce of tomorrow. Corrie Harris, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “Apprenticeships represent a unique and invaluable route into a successful career, and we were thrilled to celebrate our students, employers and staff at the awards ceremony. “Our apprenticeship programmes do not just transform careers; they transform lives and provide apprentices with the confidence to excel in their professions and contribute to local, national, and regional communities.”

£12.6m delivery contract signed for Nottingham’s first new bridge since the 1950s

Tess Egginton
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£12.6m delivery contract signed for Nottingham’s first new bridge since the 1950s
Nottingham City Council have entered into a £12.6m delivery contract with Balfour Beatty to deliver the city’s new 85 metre long walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent. It is expected that over 100 people will be employed during the project, including four apprentices. The network arch bridge will be 20 metres high from its deck to its peak, weighing in at 160 tonnes, or about as much as a blue whale. The new foot and cycle bridge will link the north side of the river where the new Trent Basin community of 350 homes continues to take shape, and the south side of the river with sports facilities, riverside walks and green spaces close by. This contract signing signals the start of construction for the bridge scheme, with the first activity on site the demolition of the warehouse previously used by Flo Skate Park – this is required to create the space necessary for the construction of the bridge. Construction timeline:
  • February/March: Site clearance including vegetation clearance and demolishing a warehouse formerly used by Flo Skate Park
  • March: Balfour Beatty will bring equipment, materials and cabins to site
  • April onwards: Pilings are screwed into the ground to support the bridge structure
  • Summer – Autumn: The bridge will be built on site using large, prefabricated sections of steel arriving from local company Briton Fabricators Ltd, based just eight miles away in Hucknall
  • November: The completed bridge and basin bridge will be lifted into place on its supports by a huge crane
  • Winter 25/26: Ramps, steps and hard and soft landscaping completed including paving, planting and lighting
  • Spring 2026: The new bridge opens
The new bridge will be the first built in the city since the 1950s – linking the north side of the river with popular Colwick Park along with the regenerating Trent Basin area, and the south side of the river with its many sports facilities including the City Ground, Trent Bridge, Holme Pierrepont and Nottingham Rugby Club. The new bridge is entirely funded by the Transforming Cities Fund, provided by Central Government. In addition to the construction of the Bridge, work is underway to ensure that it will be well connected to the cycle route on Daleside Road with the wider sustainable transport connections through to the city centre in addition to along the banks of the river to Colwick Park. Nottingham City Council Leader and Executive Member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications, Councillor Neghat Khan said: “I’m delighted to share that Nottingham City Council has officially partnered with Balfour Beatty, our trusted lead delivery partner, to bring our exciting new walking and cycling bridge to life. “This ambitious project, fully funded by Central Government through the Transforming Cities Fund, marks a significant step toward a greener, more connected future. “I’m eager to see construction progress and watch this landmark take shape on our city’s skyline. Once completed, the bridge will enhance Nottingham’s cycling and pedestrian network, providing a safe, traffic-free route over the river and empowering more people to travel sustainably and healthily.” Errol Wisby, Portfolio Director at Balfour Beatty, said: “We’re pleased to have partnered with Nottingham City Council and SCAPE to deliver this landmark project, which will enhance connectivity and promote sustainable travel in Nottingham city centre. “We now look forward to works commencing in earnest and seeing the positive impact this project will have on Nottingham and its residents both now and in the future.” Ricky Lee, associate director of project management at Pick Everard, who deliver project and cost management and health and safety services for the scheme, said: “This is a landmark scheme for Nottingham City Council and the wider community, with the bridge itself set to be one of longest single-spanning network arch bridges for cyclists and pedestrians in the UK. “Naturally, a project of this scale requires extensive collaboration across various stakeholders to ensure it is a successful and rewarding scheme for residents and those visiting the city. “Operating under Perfect Circle via the SCAPE Consultancy Framework, we’re looking forward to work commencing on site, which complements wider regeneration efforts across the city and recognises Nottingham as a sustainable place to work and live.” Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Leader Councillor Neil Clarke said: “This is another milestone for the project and a step closer to more connectivity for residents on both sides of the river for further opportunities to travel in a more sustainable way. “Creating this new link for cyclists and pedestrians will create easier access to nearby open spaces in Lady Bay and West Bridgford and our local sports grounds and leisure facilities, encouraging more people to make lower carbon journeys.”

Former lace factory to address crucial gap in homelessness support system following sale

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Former lace factory to address crucial gap in homelessness support system following sale
BB&J Commercial has sold Lee House, 10 Alpine Street, Old Basford to Framework Housing Association. Previously owned by Fredk. Johnson Lace Ltd, Lee House has been a key part of Nottingham’s lace and textile industry since 1989, providing workspace for various textile and fabric businesses and contributing to the city’s manufacturing heritage. With its industrial legacy coming to an end, Framework Housing Association plans to redevelop the site into 20 self-contained units under the Homes England ‘Single Homeless Accommodation Programme’. This development will provide long-term housing solutions for individuals facing severe disadvantage, addressing a crucial gap in the homelessness support system. Designed with safety and community integration in mind, the project will incorporate controlled access and CCTV, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for residents and neighbouring businesses. Cameron Godfrey, agent at BB&J Commercial responsible for the sale, said: “We received a significant amount of interest in Lee House, but it was clear that Framework’s proposal would deliver lasting benefits to the community. “Seeing this historic site repurposed into a development that will positively impact vulnerable individuals is truly rewarding. I extend my best wishes to my client as they move on from Lee House and look forward to seeing Framework Housing Association bring their vision to life, delivering much-needed housing and support to those in need.” The seller, Neil Johnson, said: “I would like to say thank you to Cameron and Mark. Your advice was invaluable, and your exposure to the market was surprising. Putting my mind back to the beginning, I think we had five offers in the space of 2 weeks. “In the end our buyer was a very professional outfit, they kept us in the loop all the way to the end.”
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