The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025: “It’s a fantastic awards event that we enjoy being part of,” says past winner

Tess Egginton
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The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025: “It’s a fantastic awards event that we enjoy being part of,” says past winner
With nominations now being welcomed for Business Link Magazine’s East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, last year’s ‘Commercial Development of the Year’ winner has reflected on the prestigious event. Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “It’s a fantastic awards event that we enjoy being part of and have had previous success, including winning the Commercial Development of the Year for the Air and Space Institute in Newark last year and receiving the accolade of Overall Winner from all the categories a few years previous. “The East Midlands Bricks Awards brings together hard-working individuals and colleagues to celebrate all that is good in the local construction industry, and we are proud to have been recognised amongst our peers for our work in the region. We congratulate the Bricks team on the 10th year anniversary of the awards.” The East Midlands Bricks Awards celebrates the successes of property and construction companies in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. This year’s eagerly anticipated awards ceremony, marking 10 years of the event, will take place on Thursday 2nd October at Nottingham’s famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion highlights development projects, businesses, 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. It also toasts the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes. Welcoming almost 150 professionals, nominating a company or project for the awards is a great way to showcase your successes, recognise your team’s efforts, and reach our audience of over 60,000 business readers, while also offering a chance to connect with respected professionals. And better yet, it’s completely free to enter! Making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the event, where you’ll be in the running for one of our coveted awards.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here.

Supporting imagery, video, documents, or links to these, can be sent to bricks@blmgroup.co.uk. Video nomination pitches are also welcome as an alternative or companion to written entries. Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                

To be held at:

With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.

Clowes Developments

Tess Egginton
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Clowes Developments
Headquartered in Derbyshire, Clowes Developments is one of the UK’s largest and strongest privately-owned property investment and development organisations, dedicated to a simple aim: to build a lasting legacy of strong, sustainable places that will enable future generations to prosper. Charles W Clowes founded Clowes Developments on 17th September 1964; he did so on the guiding principles of honesty, integrity, passion and innovation. That DNA still runs deep throughout the company, influencing decision-making over half a century later. The Clowes family still own and run the business, giving relief from the demands of PLC shareholders and allowing the freedom to build an extensive portfolio in creative and imaginative ways. The group holds over 3,000 acres of land and 15,000 residential plots in 130 development sites across the country, including more than 50 office and business parks and several larger mixed-use sites. Rooted in the East Midlands, the Group’s extensive portfolio reflects a strategic commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and community enrichment. Amongst the schemes Clowes is behind are the recently delivered Fairham Business Park, part of the a 606-acre Fairham site in Nottingham, Beauchamp Business Park, Kibworth, and Stud Brook Business Park, Castle Donington. Fairham
Fairham is a 606-acre site on the southern edge of Nottingham, set to become the region’s prime commercial and residential destination. Boasting world-class connectivity, Fairham sits alongside the new £150 million A453 Remembrance Way that links directly to the M1. It is also next to the NET tram terminus at Clifton, within a 15-minute drive of East Midlands Airport and a 15-minute drive or tram ride from Nottingham city centre. With over one million square feet of commercial space planned alongside 3,000 residential dwellings and a neighbourhood centre, Fairham Business Park is already over 50% complete. Occupiers include high-profile names such as Vision Express (Essilor Luxottica), SLS Medical, ABB, MacFarlane Packaging, Davenham, and Ocado. This development is significantly contributing to job creation and inward investment in the Borough of Rushcliffe. Beauchamp Business Park
Beauchamp Business Park comprises a mixture of high-quality B1 and B2 industrial units. The development was delivered over two phases and comprises units ranging in size from 1,270 to 10,085 sq ft. The development is located on the northern side of Kibworth, a large conurbation mid-way between Leicester (9 miles) and Market Harborough (7 miles) on the A6, which also links to Kettering via the A14 and the M1 at Leicester via the A563 ring road. The site was developed by Clowes Developments together with a trusted and experienced professional team including IMA Architects, TanRo, Millward Consulting Engineers, Gateley’s Legal and Postins Project Services. Philips Sutton and TDBRE were instructed as marketing agents for the scheme. Construction of the first phase of the scheme began in September 2023 with 80% of the units sold or under offer within two months of being launched to the market. Phase Two delivered an additional three terraces and a stand-alone unit which following the success of Phase One gave Clowes Developments the confidence in the market to build on a speculative basis. Stud Brook Business Park
Strategically located in Castle Donington, at Stud Brook Business Park Clowes is delivering a range of high-spec industrial and distribution units, with all units in phase one having now achieved practical completion, and officially handed over to their new occupiers. Phase one features units from 8,500 to 30,000 sq ft, with industry leaders including Argon Medical, Bucher Municipal, Unilode, and Shawpak now either fully operational or finalising their fit outs, with plans to be fully operational by summer 2025.
The project delivery was supported by a trusted professional team including IMA Architects, Millward Consulting Engineers, Geldards LLP, and Postins Project Services. The completed buildings meet modern sustainability standards, including: BREEAM Excellent, EPC Rating A, and designed and built to deliver ‘Net Zero in Occupation’. Meanwhile, Roe Developments has commenced construction of Units 1B to 1F, which will comprise five new trade counter units, ranging from 3,229 to 4,606 sq ft. The units will wrap around the now fully operational Starbucks Drive-Thru, located prominently at the front of the park. Plot 1 also neighbours the newly opened Sainsbury’s Local, offering added convenience and footfall for future occupiers. Several tenants are already lined up.
People and culture Clowes is also committed to investing in its people, nurturing internal talent and supporting future industry leaders, seeing the recent promotions of Kevin McFarlane (Director) and Rob Hopkinson (Associate Director), while Emma Purdy has completed her APC qualification with full support from the Group. Furthermore, graduate Jenny McCrea has joined from Nottingham Trent University, with more graduate and placement recruits arriving this summer, and the Group has also welcomed several work experience students. ESG In alignment with its ESG strategy, Clowes actively supports both local and national charities, while advancing carbon reduction initiatives and sustainable development practices. 2024 marked a new chapter for the group as Clowes implemented a charitable giving policy. For the financial period 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025, the Group elected Derbyshire Mind as the beneficiary of charitable fundraising initiatives, with a total of £7,102.61 donated. For the financial period 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2026, the Group has elected Macmillan as the beneficiary of charitable fundraising initiatives. Clowes Developments has also proudly achieved its first year of Planet Mark Business Certification for reporting year 2023 – 2024, this demonstrates the Group’s commitment to cutting its measured footprint annually. Planet Mark is a leading carbon reduction and net zero specialist. Achieving Business Certification is the best first step to take on the transition towards net zero. Clowes is a fervent believer that sustainability is more than just a box to be ticked. In designing and delivering its developments, Clowes is committed to doing all it can to bring a balanced approach to sustainability. Wherever possible, the Group makes sure it’s accountable environmentally, socially and economically. That way, Clowes can play its part in ensuring a better quality of life for everyone – now and for generations to come.
To learn more about Clowes Developments please visit https://clowes.co.uk/

NHS trust plans workforce reduction to meet £97m savings target

April Lara
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NHS trust plans workforce reduction to meet £97m savings target

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust is set to cut at least 430 roles in a bid to save over £97 million in the current financial year. The cost-cutting initiative is part of a broader transformation programme aimed at modernising service delivery and improving efficiency across the trust, which operates Queen’s Medical Centre and City Hospital.

The majority of the planned reductions will affect corporate and support functions, with the trust aiming to reduce its dependency on agency and temporary staff. Clinical roles are expected to be protected where possible, with the trust favouring natural attrition and voluntary departures to minimise compulsory redundancies.

In addition to job cuts, the trust is investing in digital and operational improvements, including a new patient-facing app, enhancements to outpatient services to reduce waiting times, and the expansion of surgical theatres to increase capacity for day case procedures by 5,000 annually.

Despite making £91.2 million in savings last year, the trust overspent by £51.6 million and continues to face pressure to reduce its wage bill, which accounts for 70% of its £1.8 billion annual budget. The organisation currently employs the equivalent of 18,300 full-time staff. The plan supports national directives for NHS trusts to streamline back-office operations.

Automation hub construction to begin at Ashfield tech park

April Lara
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Automation hub construction to begin at Ashfield tech park

Lindum Group has been appointed to deliver the new £44 million Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) in Sutton-in-Ashfield, the flagship facility of the £100 million Ashfield Innovation and Technology Park.

Spanning over 31,000 sq ft, the ADMC will serve as a national centre for automation, providing support for UK businesses of all sizes to adopt tailored automation strategies. Modelled on the UK’s Catapult Centres, it will house research, technical, and engineering teams, and offer collaborative space for industry and academia.

Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2025, with completion anticipated in late 2026. The facility is expected to open to tenants and users in early 2027.

Academic and industrial partners, including Nottingham Trent University and Vision West Nottinghamshire College, as well as local manufacturers, are involved in shaping the centre’s offerings to meet current sector needs.

The project is being procured through the SCAPE Regional Construction framework, enabling early contractor engagement and efficient delivery. It forms part of Ashfield District Council’s broader regeneration strategy aimed at creating skilled jobs and strengthening the district’s position in advanced manufacturing and automation.

Holcim UK strengthens asphalt footprint with Gloucester site acquisition

April Lara
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Holcim UK strengthens asphalt footprint with Gloucester site acquisition

Holcim UK has acquired an asphalt plant in Sharpness, Gloucester, from Sharpness Asphalt Limited. Strategically located next to the local wharf, the site enhances Holcim’s regional presence and supports its expansion strategy in the UK asphalt market.

The facility will temporarily close for upgrades and is expected to reopen next month under the Holcim Express Asphalt brand. Once operational, the site will focus on rapid turnaround services for small load collections, with a target service time of 30 minutes for single-product loads. Additional services will include material tip-off, an onsite shop for ancillary items, refreshments, WiFi access, and washroom facilities.

The move is part of Holcim’s broader effort to grow its Express Asphalt network, which is designed to cater to trade customers and SMEs requiring fast, reliable service and access to supplementary onsite resources. The acquisition also strengthens Holcim’s footprint in the South West, a region where infrastructure and commercial development continue to generate strong demand for asphalt and surfacing materials.

Sudden hit for East Midlands economy as local entrepreneurs decide to hold back

Tess Egginton
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Sudden hit for East Midlands economy as local entrepreneurs decide to hold back
A steep fall in the number of businesses set up in the region over the past two months indicates local entrepreneurs are increasingly reluctant to ride out current economic challenges, including April’s rises in the National Minimum Wage and Employers National Insurance, as well as new US tariffs. This is according to the Midlands branch of national insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and is based on a monthly analysis of regional start-up data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe. R3’s figures show there were 2,139 businesses set up in the East Midlands in May, which is a substantial 19.31% decrease compared to the 2,651 new businesses registered in March. The May figure, however, is marginally higher than the 2,076 start-ups established twelve months previously in May 2024, which gives a longer-term indication of the state of the region’s economy, along with further R3 analysis showing that the number of companies with late payments on their books dipped in May. R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “The immediate decline in local entrepreneurship is reflected across the whole of the UK and highlights the uncertainty caused by rising employment costs, contracting economies, world politics and spiralling fuel and energy costs. “It appears that many businesses are taking sound steps to minimise their current financial exposure and to push into new markets and ventures only at a time when they have the best economic platform to succeed. “Meanwhile, for those directors who are worried about the viability of their business going forward, R3’s advice is to seek professional help and to do it as soon as possible. The sooner support is sought, the more opportunities there may be to assure a company’s survival and future success.”

New homes plan set to reshape Leicestershire village edge

April Lara
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New homes plan set to reshape Leicestershire village edge

Plans have been submitted to develop a 20.7-acre site on the outskirts of Newbold Verdon, Leicestershire, with 200 new homes. The application, lodged by Bloor Homes, outlines proposals for residential development alongside community infrastructure, including a potential health and wellbeing hub or retail unit, as well as sports facilities and expanded school playing fields.

The proposed site is situated off Bosworth Lane, B585, and currently comprises agricultural land. Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council is reviewing the application, with a planning decision expected later this year.

The development reflects continued demand for housing in rural areas, with implications for local infrastructure, service providers, and supply chain partners operating in the construction, education, and healthcare sectors.

EDGE appoints new director at Nottingham HQ

Tess Egginton
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EDGE appoints new director at Nottingham HQ
EDGE, a multi-disciplinary property and construction consultancy, has appointed Oliver Hatton as director at its Nottingham headquarters. An accredited RICS Chartered Project Manager, Oliver brings over a decade of experience in the built environment sector, having progressed from assistant project manager to director at national consultancy Pick Everard. During his time there, he was instrumental in growing the Nottingham office and led significant initiatives for regional public sector clients. These included Nottingham’s landmark Broadmarsh regeneration project, which delivered a vibrant new southern gateway to the city centre – featuring high-quality public realm, improved transport hubs and a new central library. In his new role at EDGE, Oliver will focus on strategic project delivery and client engagement, bringing deep regional expertise and leadership to support the company’s continued growth. He sees major opportunity in helping organisations adapt underutilised estates – particularly in the public sector and higher education – driven by shifts in working patterns and mounting pressure to decarbonise. Commenting on his appointment, Oliver said: “I’m thrilled to be joining EDGE at such an exciting time for the business. “The growth over recent years has been truly impressive, but what really stands out is how intentional and considered it’s been – investing in great people, exemplar office environments, and embracing innovation. “EDGE has retained a strong ‘one team’ culture, with senior leadership that’s visible and genuinely hands-on with both staff and clients. It’s a business with high standards and a clear vision, and I’m incredibly excited for this next chapter in my career.” Geoff Tindsley, regional director at EDGE Nottingham, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Oliver to the team. His knowledge of the region and proven ability to lead complex, high-profile projects make him a hugely valuable addition. He’s very highly regarded across the East Midlands and will play a key role in both our regional leadership and national growth.”

Rothera Bray merges with historic Loughborough firm Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth

Tess Egginton
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0
Rothera Bray merges with historic Loughborough firm Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth
Regional law firm Rothera Bray is merging with Loughborough-based Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth, significantly expanding its presence in Leicestershire. The merger will see Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth become part of the Rothera Bray family, marking the firm’s eighth office and strengthening its geographic footprint alongside its existing offices in Leicester and Market Harborough. The merger is effective immediately and all staff will be retained. Founded in 1732 and having occupied its Rectory Place premises since 1863, Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth adopted its current name in 1881. Christina Yardley, CEO of Rothera Bray, said: “We are delighted to welcome Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth to Rothera Bray. Their rich history, deep community connections, and commitment to client service align perfectly with our values. “This merger enables us to serve a wider range of clients across Leicestershire while retaining the personal, high-quality legal support both firms are known for.” Andy Jervis, chairman of Chesterton House Group and owner of Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth, added: “Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth has been an important part of our group since 2017, offering high-quality legal advice to our many financial planning and accounting clients. “We have been deliberating how to ensure its long-term success, and after careful consideration we have concluded that joining with a firm that shares our ethos, values, and commitment to client care is the best way forward. We look forward to continuing to work with Rothera Bray for many years to come.”

College receives £600k to train skilled agri-food workforce

Tess Egginton
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College receives £600k to train skilled agri-food workforce
Students at Riseholme College are to benefit from enhanced agriculture and horticulture facilities and equipment, thanks to funding from Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution deal. Riseholme, based on the outskirts of Lincoln, will receive £600,000 of investment for new skills training infrastructure as a result of the deal agreed with the government last year for Greater Lincolnshire to get a new combined authority headed up by an elected mayor. Land-based college Riseholme will invest in a new state-of-the-art Centre for Plant and Soil Science with the funding. It will be created by expanding the current practical learning space at Riseholme Park and creating a specialist horticulture laboratory and teaching area at the college’s Showground Campus, next to Lincolnshire Showground. The centre will support the delivery of a range of qualifications across further education, higher education, apprenticeships and short and part-time courses in agriculture and horticulture. A range of industry-standard agricultural equipment, including a telehandler, tractor and loader and a portable weighbridge platform will be purchased with the funding as well. The new equipment will also include a crop sprayer and virtual welding simulator. Beth Curtis, vice principal at Riseholme College, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding, which will directly benefit our students by giving them access to cutting-edge facilities and industry-standard equipment. “This funding is not just about new resources – it represents a significant step forward in our mission to prepare learners for successful and meaningful careers in the ever-evolving fields of agriculture and horticulture. “It is essential that our students develop the hands-on skills, knowledge and adaptability that employers are looking for both now and in the future. “We’re incredibly grateful for this recognition of the work we do and the role Riseholme College plays in shaping the future of the agri-food sector. “It reinforces our commitment to excellence in education and training, and our ongoing dedication to nurturing the next generation of skilled, innovative and work-ready professionals who will drive these crucial industries forward.” Riseholme is one of six educational bodies to receive a share of £2.5m under the devolution deal.
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