Loughborough University has launched a public consultation on a proposed new student accommodation development on its Loughborough campus.
Rydal Group acquires Nottingham healthcare tech firm’s IT division
Warehouse solutions firm lets 345,000 sq ft unit
Trelleborg and Nottingham Trent University form Knowledge Transfer Partnership for smart medical textiles
Trelleborg, a leader in engineered coated fabrics, has formed a new Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Nottingham Trent University’s (NTU) Medical Technologies Innovation Facility.
The Medical Technologies Innovation Facility accelerates the research, development and delivery of innovative medical technologies and services for organizations across the breadth of medical and health sectors, by widening access to world-class facilities, equipment and expertise. This collaboration, part-funded by Innovate UK, aims to expand Trelleborg’s capabilities in smart fabrics for healthcare applications through cutting-edge innovation and research-driven solutions. The partnership will propel the development of a smart mattress system designed to enhance patient care and reduce medical interventions. NTU’s Dr. Yang Wei, an expert in smart medical textiles, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Trelleborg on this project. The development of smart fabrics will significantly impact the healthcare industry, and our shared vision aims to provide innovative solutions addressing real-world challenges. “This KTP demonstrates the power of combining academic research with industry expertise to create tangible advancements.” Antony Croston, Commercial Director Healthcare & Medical for Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics, said: “This KTP is an important milestone in transforming the future of healthcare textiles. “By combining NTU’s research expertise with our local capabilities in engineered coated fabrics, we aim to pioneer innovations that improve patient well-being while driving global change in medical textiles.”552-bed student scheme planned for Loughborough University
Name for Derby’s Becketwell venue revealed in multi-year deal
More shared ownership buyers increasing stakes in homes
Leicestershire housing association Platform Home Ownership has reported a 50% rise in staircasing enquiries, as more shared ownership buyers seek to increase their equity in their homes.
Staircasing allows homeowners to gradually buy additional property shares, reducing rental costs and moving toward full ownership. Platform, which offers shared ownership homes across the county, has seen a 179% increase in total sales in the current financial year compared to the previous one.
Most shared ownership buyers start with a stake of between 10% and 75% of a property’s market value, paying rent on the remaining portion. Deposits for these schemes typically range from 5% to 10% of the share purchased, making entry into homeownership more affordable.
Market conditions influence staircasing costs, with each transaction requiring a valuation by an accredited surveyor. Platform Home Ownership’s Staircasing and Resales Manager, Laura Hathaway, noted that 72% of the association’s customers ultimately staircase to full ownership, while 28% purchase additional shares on an interim basis.
The surge in staircasing enquiries reflects a growing demand for long-term housing security, as buyers look for flexible ways to build equity and manage housing costs.
Nottingham leads UK cities in EV adoption
Nottingham is emerging as the UK’s leader in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, with 21% of drivers planning to switch to an EV when they next replace their car, according to new research by Motorpoint.
The study ranks UK cities based on willingness to adopt EVs, with Nottingham taking the top spot, followed by Bristol, London, Belfast, and Newcastle.
Despite rising interest, home charging remains a key challenge. Motorpoint found that 72% of petrol and diesel drivers lack access to home charging, with 37% citing high installation costs as a barrier. Nearly half (45%) believe more financial support is needed for home charging infrastructure.
Motorists in Glasgow and Newcastle showed the highest confidence in EVs as the future of transport, with support 7% above the national average. Glasgow, Newcastle, London, Sheffield, and Birmingham are the cities most convinced of EVs’ long-term viability.
The study also revealed strong loyalty among current EV owners, with all surveyed drivers stating they plan to stay electric for their next vehicle.
NHS trust secures long-term lease at Scunthorpe’s Elizabeth Quarter
The Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) has signed a 15-year lease for office space at Elizabeth Quarter, a newly developed council-owned building in Scunthorpe.
The three-storey property includes a ground-floor café and reception area, with modern office space spanning approximately 1,250 sqm across the upper floors. The building was marketed for lease and attracted strong interest from potential tenants.
RDaSH will use the offices for clinical consultations, patient appointments, and as the headquarters for its Community Mental Health and Talking Therapy workforce. The trust, which provides mental health and children’s services in the region, sees the move as a key part of its expansion in North Lincolnshire.
The council expects the agreement to drive further commercial interest in the site, particularly for the ground-floor café. The move aligns with its strategy to support local economic growth and ensure value for money for taxpayers.
RAF Scampton to be sold on open market despite regeneration plans
The UK government will sell RAF Scampton on the open market, rejecting West Lindsey District Council’s bid to acquire the site for a £300 million redevelopment project.
Earmarked initially by the previous Conservative government for migrant housing, the site’s asylum plans were scrapped in September. The Home Office cited regulatory requirements preventing a direct sale to the council, emphasising that disposal of public land must follow market rules.
Since March 2023, the site has cost over £60 million. Government officials claim the sale will prevent further taxpayer losses. Meanwhile, the council, which had partnered with Scampton Holdings Ltd. for regeneration, argues that contamination, heritage issues, and infrastructure limitations make a public-private partnership the only viable option for redevelopment.
Scampton Holdings remains committed to the project despite setbacks. Chairman Peter Hewitt criticised the delays, while local MP Sir Edward Leigh called the government’s decision “madness,” arguing it wasted time and resources on failed asylum plans.
Bungalow development proposed for underused land in Thurnby
A proposal to develop vacant land in Thurnby’s conservation area into nine bungalows, a public car park, and green space has been submitted to Harborough District Council (HDC).
The site, located next to Grange Lane, is overgrown and not publicly accessible. Developer D.W. Hicks Holding Ltd plans to build a mix of semi-detached and detached bungalows, along with a 16-space car park intended to support nearby amenities, including a café and sports field.
Previous proposals for larger housing developments on the site were withdrawn in 2014 and 2015. The latest plan divides the land into residential housing, an expanded green area, and community parking.
Developer Derrick Hicks stated that the project would enhance the area while addressing local demand for bungalows. A consultation is open until 16 April, with a council decision expected by 12 May.


