Vehicle leasing firm’s footballer fundraiser returns for sixth year
Nottingham hotel tax expected in 2026 after delay
Businesses warn of hiring slowdowns, price hikes due to rising costs
According to a report by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and AAB, UK businesses anticipate reduced recruitment and higher prices as increased employer National Insurance contributions take effect in April 2025.
Survey results show that 82% of businesses expect the tax hike to impact operations, with 58% predicting recruitment challenges and 54% expecting price increases. Additionally, 79% believe the government has not assessed the economic impact adequately.
East Midlands Chamber CEO Scott Knowles stated that businesses already facing prolonged economic strain will struggle with higher staffing costs, potentially limiting growth. The chamber’s survey found that over half of companies in the region expect to raise prices, and those revising hiring plans have doubled to 22% from the previous quarter.
Knowles urged policymakers to consider business concerns in the upcoming comprehensive spending review to support growth and economic stability.
Derby tech firm expands services after securing £750,000 contract
Alton Valley, a Derby-based network and security solutions provider, is launching 24/7 operations after securing a £750,000 contract. The move aims to support mission-critical industries with continuous service, leveraging the company’s security-cleared team for sensitive projects.
The expansion follows a record £7 million turnover in 2024, a fourfold increase over three years. Alton Valley’s growth strategy focuses on meeting rising client demands for around-the-clock support in high-security sectors.
Nottinghamshire solar project moves closer to approval
Plans for the Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park in Nottinghamshire have advanced following a six-week public consultation. Developer Elements Green gathered over 300 pieces of feedback and engaged with more than 500 residents across nine events between January 9 and February 20.
The proposed solar farm, northwest of Newark-on-Trent, aims to generate up to 800 MW of electricity—enough to power around 400,000 homes and businesses. It will also include battery storage, 50,000 new trees, 800 acres of wildlife areas, and 46 km of hedgerows. The project features 19 new routes connecting public footpaths and a £40 million community fund for local initiatives.
Elements Green has secured partnerships with the RSPB, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, and Pro Renewables, which will supply British steel for the project. The next step is submitting a development consent order application, which will undergo a formal review process with additional public input.
NewGen IT moves to larger Wellingborough office after rapid growth
NewGen IT has relocated to a new, purpose-built office in Wellingborough following a year of expansion, securing multiple contracts and adding three new team members. The company outgrew its previous office in Irchester and now operates from a space designed to accommodate up to 24 employees.
The move supports NewGen IT’s long-term growth strategy and enhances client services, including on-site training and improved meeting facilities. The company aims to continue scaling in 2025 and beyond, strengthening its market position and expanding service offerings.
Recruitment firm makes strategic leadership promotions
New infrastructure funding could unlock more housing in Derbyshire
A £1 million funding proposal from the East Midlands Combined County Authority could enable the construction of 200 additional homes in Wingerworth, Derbyshire. The funding would support a new southern access road to The Avenue, a former industrial site that underwent a £185 million remediation effort.
The Avenue, once a heavily contaminated coking plant, closed in 1992 after four decades of coal, gas, and chemical production. The site was redeveloped after extensive cleanup with housing and a 220-acre country park.
North East Derbyshire District Council approved plans for 469 homes in 2014, with 252 already completed by Tilia Homes. However, further expansion is contingent on infrastructure upgrades. Derbyshire County Council has proposed a £1.3 million project to upgrade the junction at Derby Road and Mill Lane, adding traffic signals to improve access. Work is expected to start in October and be completed by March 2026.
The improvements would also unlock 10 acres of commercial space and enhance public transport connections. Local officials stress that without public funding, further development of homes and business facilities may be stalled.
Househam Sprayers secures new ownership, operations to continue
Househam Sprayers Ltd, a Lincolnshire-based manufacturer of self-propelled sprayers, entered administration earlier this month and has been acquired by the newly formed Househam Group Ltd. The acquisition aims to stabilize the business’s finances and position it for long-term growth.
The company’s leadership team includes Managing Director Robey Willey, with Nick Snowden (Commercial Director), Dean Eaton (Operations Director), and Frank Pearson (Finance Director) overseeing key functions. A senior management team has also been appointed to handle the supply chain, product support, engineering, and HR.
Househam Group will retain all 47 employees and continue production without disruptions. Existing customers, suppliers, and partners will receive direct updates on operational changes.
Midlands Engine Investment Fund II marks over 100 deals with investment in air compressor installation business
