Digital innovation company finds oasis at new Chesterfield office

Digital innovation company, Oasis Studio has expanded into a new office at Tapton Innovation Centre in Chesterfield following significant growth in 2024. Specialising in digital property marketing, Oasis Studio has gained recognition for its  EyeSiteView platform, which enhances the home-buying experience through digital strategies. Jade Chinn, Business Development Manager at Oasis Studio, said 2024 had been a fantastic year: “We’ve had the privilege of working with more housebuilders, helping them bring new homes to market faster and more effectively. Our expansion into Tapton Innovation Centre is a key step forward, providing us with the space and facilities to continue delivering top-tier digital marketing solutions.” The relocation to Tapton Innovation Centre was driven by the need for a scalable workspace that encourages collaboration and creativity. “What stands out about Chesterfield is how much the town invests in its businesses,” added Jade Chinn. “It creates real opportunities for networking and collaboration, helping companies connect and grow together. It’s a place where you can truly thrive, supported by a community that values innovation and partnership.”

EY boosts Midlands Private team with two appointments

EY has strengthened its Private team in the Midlands with two new appointments. Olivia Prew joins as Head of Private in the Midlands and Hannah Al-Anazi joins as Associate Director for Private and Mid-market. Olivia brings nearly two decades of experience, working extensively with private businesses, entrepreneurs and mid-market private equity clients, helping them to achieve their strategic aspirations and create long-term value. Prior to joining EY, she was Head of Origination at international corporate finance advisor, Clearwater. Olivia Prew, EY Head of Private in the Midlands, said: “I am delighted to join EY in the Midlands – the region is home to a range of dynamic businesses, management teams and entrepreneurs. “In this ever-changing and complex business environment, there is increasing demand from entrepreneurs and management teams to partner with advisors who understand their needs and are able to offer high quality advice and solutions. “The strength and experience of EY’s team, understanding of the local market and international reach, means we are ideally positioned to support clients in navigating their individual challenges and growth journeys.” Hannah Al-Anazi joins EY as Associate Director, bringing experience in Executive Search and Leadership advisory. Hannah has spent over a decade working on global mandates focusing on positions spanning across Finance, Cyber, ESG/Sustainability and Life Sciences. Most recently, Hannah worked in a strategic leadership consultancy that provided advisory-led services for owner managed businesses, as well as private equity funds and their portfolio companies, pre-deal and post-deal. Hannah Al-Anazi, EY Associate Director for Private and Mid-Market, said: “I am excited to contribute to the expansion of our presence in the Midlands and look forward to collaborating with our team to provide insights and strategies that drive growth and enhance operational effectiveness for privately-owned businesses.” Olivia and Hannah join Anisha Patel in the Private team, focusing on originating and building relationships with both new and existing clients in the mid-market. Simon O’Neill, EY’s Managing Partner for the Midlands, said: “Olivia and Hannah’s appointments come at a pivotal time as EY continues to strengthen its Private team in the Midlands. “Their extensive experience and strong networks in the Midlands will be invaluable as we continue to support our clients in executing their strategies in an ever-evolving market. We are thrilled to welcome them to the team.”

Lincolnshire estate planning firm secures funding to expand outreach

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Westwood Estate Planning, a Lincolnshire-based estate planning business, has received £8,000 in funding from First Enterprise through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. The funds will support marketing efforts to raise awareness of estate planning and financial wellbeing.

The business provides legal services including will writing, lasting power of attorney, probate, and estate administration. Founder Gary Tonsley established the company after experiencing firsthand the challenges of inadequate financial planning when his mother passed away without arrangements in place.

The funding will enable Westwood Estate Planning to expand its client education initiatives, including seminars, newsletters, and partnerships with financial advisers. First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, a not-for-profit lender, provides loans between £500 and £150,000 to start-ups and SMEs unable to access traditional bank financing.

Representatives from First Enterprise and the British Business Bank praised the company’s efforts to improve financial literacy and support local families in securing their futures.

Lincoln footbridge to be demolished for hotel development

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A pedestrian bridge over Melville Street in Lincoln is set to be demolished in May as part of a multi-million-pound hotel project by Lincolnshire Co-op. The bridge, previously part of the former City Square shopping centre, has been deemed an obstacle to development both logistically and visually.

Lincolnshire Co-op, which has outline planning permission for the hotel, is working with the Department for Transport and other stakeholders to finalise the demolition timeline and road closures. Notices have been issued under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, confirming the planned removal.

The demolition is expected to take place over a weekend to reduce disruption. The bridge, a popular location for city and cathedral views, will be permanently removed as part of the site’s redevelopment.

Compleat Food Group acquires The Real Yorkshire Pudding Co amid job cuts

The Compleat Food Group has acquired The Real Yorkshire Pudding Co for an undisclosed amount, shortly after announcing plans to cut nearly 200 jobs across its Nottingham and Crewe sites.

The Yorkshire-based Real Yorkshire Pudding Co, which generates £33 million in revenue, supplies both own-label and branded chilled Yorkshire puddings.

This acquisition follows Compleat’s 2024 purchases of SK Foods and Zorba Foods, which specialise in private-label party foods, dips, and deli fillings, and Harvey & Brockless, a specialty food producer and distributor.

Backed by private equity firm PAI Partners, The Compleat Food Group was formed in 2021 and employs over 5,000 staff across 15 locations. Its portfolio includes brands such as Pork Farms, Wall’s Pastry, unearthed, Vadasz, Squeaky Bean, Wrights, and Palace Culture.

ATS Euromaster closes Kettering branch as part of UK-wide restructuring

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ATS Euromaster has permanently closed its Kettering service centre, one of 86 locations shutting down as parent company Michelin shifts to a mobile servicing model. The nearest remaining branch is in Northampton, with 235 centres operating across the UK.

Employees affected by the Kettering closure have been offered interviews at Halfords, which has also committed to prioritising MOT and service bookings originally made with ATS to minimise customer disruptions.

An ATS Euromaster spokesperson previously cited overcapacity, rising costs, and sluggish market growth as reasons for the restructuring. The closures are expected to impact up to 400 employees across the UK.

Humber businesses urge mayoral candidates to unify for regional growth

Business leaders across the Humber call on mayoral candidates in Hull, East Yorkshire, and Greater Lincolnshire to adopt a coordinated economic strategy to maximise the region’s potential. A joint letter, signed by major companies including ABP, Drax, Reckitt, Arcadis, Able, and Smith-Nephew, as well as organisations like the Humber Energy Board and Hull University, highlights challenges and opportunities for the area.

Concerns include the uncertainty surrounding the Scunthorpe steel plant and the Humber’s absence from the Chancellor’s recent growth speech. Business leaders argue that a unified approach is essential to securing investment and maintaining the region’s economic competitiveness.

The letter emphasises the Humber’s strengths in renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, citing the potential for 28GW of offshore wind energy and £15 billion in private investment for carbon capture and hydrogen projects. It calls for a Humber Estuary Growth Zone to align Freeport development with other key infrastructure projects, ensuring a streamlined approach to attracting investors.

Mather Jamie welcomes graduate commercial surveyor

Mather Jamie has appointed Matthew Egglenton as its new graduate commercial surveyor. Matthew joins the East Midlands property consultancy after completing a BSc (Hons) in Real Estate at Nottingham Trent University. He will now be working towards his Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) while supporting Mather Jamie’s senior surveyors across a range of commercial property transactions. In his role, Matthew will be gaining valuable hands-on experience including property viewings, advising clients on leasehold and freehold sales & lettings, valuation, carrying out marketing inspections, researching market comparables and assisting with negotiations. Speaking about his decision to join Mather Jamie, Matthew said: “The company has a proven track record of successfully guiding graduates through the APC process, and I was keen to be part of a respected firm with a strong reputation in the East Midlands. I’m looking forward to developing my skills and progressing my career in commercial property.” Alex Reid, commercial director at Mather Jamie, added: “We are very pleased to welcome Matthew to our commercial team. His enthusiasm and commitment to developing his expertise in the property sector align perfectly with our values. We look forward to supporting him through his APC and helping him build a successful career with us.”

Melton Building Society appoints Non Executive Director

Melton Building Society has welcomed Ashraf Piranie to its Board of Directors. Ashraf will in addition sit on the Society’s Audit Committee and assume the role of Chair of subsidiary Nexa Finance Ltd. The Society will benefit from the vast knowledge and guidance that comes with Ashraf’s long and successful career in financial services. Ashraf brings valuable experience from his sixteen years within the Building Society sector, having held the position of Group Finance and Operations Director at West Bromwich Building Society and Deputy Chief Executive and Finance Director at Nottingham Building Society. In addition, Ashraf has held senior positions as Chief Financial Officer at Redwood Bank, Finance Director and Joint Managing Director at Al Rayan (formerly Islamic Bank of Britain) and Director of Finance at Santander (formerly Alliance & Leicester). Ashraf also brings valuable experience in strategy (including acquisition and mergers), change management, finance and treasury. An experienced Non Executive Director, Ashraf is currently Chair of the Risk Committee at both Monument and GB Bank and sits on their main Boards. Commenting on his appointment Ashraf said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Sue and the rest of the Board, in what is a landmark 150th year for the Society. “With my experience I’m keen to guide and support the business as they enter the next phase of their digital transformation. I look forward to representing the views of our membership as we progress with our aims of making a Society fit to serve our members for the next 150 years.” Sue Douthwaite, Chair of the Board, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ashraf as he joins us on the Board of directors at Melton Building Society. “His expertise and experience in financial services, particularly his years spent within the Building Society sector will be incredibly valuable as we shape our aspirations for our Society and continue to strive to fulfil the needs of our members now and into the future.”

Work starts on next phases of sustainable Nottingham housing development

The Fruit Market housing development in Nottingham’s Sneinton Market has entered phases 2 and 3 of construction. Delivered by igloo Regeneration, phases 2 and 3 will see the construction of 26 new homes clustered around two large communal gardens. The milestone follows the completion of phase 1 which saw a sustainable, garden neighbourhood of 13 design led homes. Phases 2 and 3 will continue the scheme’s sustainable ethos. The development is completely gas-free, utilising air source heat pumps, underfloor heating and high levels of thermal insulation to make the scheme one of the most energy-efficient and future proofed in the city. Sam Veal, Director at igloo Regeneration, said: “This milestone marks a key moment for the Fruit Market development and its positive impact on the wider Nottingham city centre, as we move forward with the delivery of much needed, high-quality homes for the community. “With Phases 2 and 3, we remain dedicated to providing sustainable, community-focused homes that are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of residents, creating spaces where people can truly feel at home. “The continued growth of the Fruit Market community will ensure that these new homes will make a lasting positive impact on this vibrant area and the wider city centre, and we look forward to seeing the full development come to life.” Construction is underway on the scheme, with completion scheduled for summer 2026.