New film studio moves a step closer for Derby

Plans to bring back to life a long-time redundant factory on the edge of Derby city centre have taken a massive step forward. Damien Walters Limited, working in conjunction with MARV, have completed the purchase of the 80,000 sq ft former Aida factory on City Road at Chester Green from Derby City Council. The process follows twelve months of detailed work between Derby City Council and a team of locally based consultants working with Damien Walters. With temporary planning permission already in place for part of the building, a detailed planning application will be submitted shortly to fully repurpose the site with construction work expected to begin at the end of Q4, 2023. The proposal puts forward that Derby City Gymnastics Club and Gym will relocate from Chapel Street with a new stunt training academy to be incorporated into the new gym. Three film studios are to be created within the older part of the building, which runs down the full length of City Road. The final phase involves the delivery of a new world class rehabilitation centre for elite sports participants and the wider stunt industry. Commenting on the completion of the purchase, Damien Walters said: “We are absolutely delighted to have concluded the purchase of this property, and I’d like to pay huge thanks to all the people working on both sides of the deal for all their hard work. “We have already been rehearsing one major movie in the building and anticipate further rehearsal and production work to take place over the summer and into autumn, when we hope to secure planning to then deliver the first phase of the major building project at the beginning of next year.” Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism at Derby City Council, added: “We are working hard to build a really healthy, proud and vibrant Derby and this investment is great news. “It’s a positive show of confidence in the city and its people. These are ambitious plans which, if approved, will bring welcome diversification to the city economy, and create exciting jobs and opportunities for the people of Derby.” Russell Rigby, Managing Director of Rigby & Co, who brokered the property deal, added: “We have been working hard for the past three years to try and secure the very best fit in terms of property, to enable Damien and the wider team to deliver something that once complete, will be truly jaw dropping. “This level of investment in the mixed-use property will launch Derby onto the global map for film production, and stunt training.” Damien Walters Limited was represented by Rigby & Co, working with Geldards LLP. Derby City Council were represented by Freeths.

Clowes Developments and partners to deliver new £8m facility for Terinex Flexibles at Dove Valley Park

Work is underway at the latest phase of Dove Valley Park, the 200-acre industrial and distribution development in Foston, South Derbyshire.Clowes Developments and their professional team including IMA Architects, CDS Engineers, and Savills, acting as Employers Agent, are bringing forward site 10A, a 4,231 sq m plot located on the southern area of Dove Valley Park south of the A50. IMA Architects is providing all architectural services and acting as Principal Designer on the scheme. The development will see the construction of a new £8m facility that will become the new home of Terinex Flexibles, an OGM Holdings Group company. Terinex Flexibles is a leading supplier of printed flexible packaging films and solutions used within the food, pet food and medical packaging industries. The 46,000 sq ft, state of the art premises, will feature production, warehousing and research and development facilities. The building will also include advanced sustainable energy systems to recover heat for re-use, and solar panels for generating power to operate the factory. OGM Holdings is aiming to create the most sustainable, low carbon footprint, flexible packaging factory in the UK. Completion of the building is expected in January 2024 and will bring further employment opportunities to the area. Dove Valley Park Ltd, a subsidiary of Clowes Developments, has been developing the business park for a number of years and is already home to occupiers including Top Hat, JCB, Müller, Futaba Ltd and GXO. Marc Freeman, director at Clowes Developments, said: “Dove Valley Park is a fantastic location for logistical enterprises, benefiting from easy access to the A50. The site continues to grow in popularity with occupiers, creating valuable employment opportunities in South Derbyshire. “We are looking forward to delivering the new site for Terinex Flexibles. Clowes Developments is currently constructing a further 270,000 sq ft across the site which will enhance the existing offering for perspective occupants.” Jack Mellor, associate at IMA Architects, said: “This is our latest project with Clowes at Dove Valley Park, and we are proud to be playing our part in creating a thriving business location. Being involved in the site, from the planning stage to completion, means we are able to create premises bespoke to the needs of the end user, something that was important to Terinex Flexibles.” Paul Wightman, group Managing Director of the OGM Group, said: “Our new location for Terinex Flexibles will facilitate the further growth of our business and we are looking forward to adding to our team in South Derbyshire. “The new site will be more than double the size of our current factory and will accommodate new equipment, our expanding team and increased R&D capabilities to benefit our food, petfood and medical packaging customers. “Reducing the environmental impact of industry in the UK is both a moral obligation and a business necessity. We aim to build the UK’s best flexible packaging factory with the lowest environmental footprint producing very high quality products. We can’t wait to move in next year.”

LLEP Board moves to cement legacy with decision on service provision beyond March 2024

The Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) will preserve its legacy – and continue to provide services – as work begins on the transition of core functions. Directors have tasked new Chief Executive, Phoebe Dawson, to collaborate with partners on identifying which LLEP functions will be required in future. Work will then commence to transition those functions into alternative accountable bodies. It comes after the Government indicated that central funding for local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) nationwide will be withdrawn at the end of March 2024. The Chancellor described during the Spring Budget his intention for LEP services to be delivered by local government from as early as April 2024. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities subsequently wrote to LEPs to confirm the decision and establish the scope of each LEP’s existing work and relationships. LLEP directors met soon after the Chancellor’s announcement to begin forming a plan for meeting the Government’s deadline. Their outline for working with core stakeholders on the transfer of powers was then ratified at a LLEP Board meeting on 13 June. The LLEP Board agreed to form a transition group, chaired by Phoebe, to work with key partners on transferring LLEP functions while building on gains made over the years. Andy Reed OBE, co-chair of the LLEP, said: “Phoebe has been a valuable recent addition to the LLEP team and will focus on finding ways to further progress the many good things the LLEP has delivered over the years. “The announcement during the Spring Budget was not unexpected and we had been talking with stakeholders for more than a year. What is important now is that we build on that collaboration with more formal talks to agree our approach ahead of the Government funding deadline in nine months’ time.” Anil Majithia, co-chair of the LLEP, said: “It’s really important that we maintain our service delivery as the cost of doing business continues to challenge so many. LLEP officers will ensure smooth transition as our teams continue helping local businesses towards increased productivity, investment-readiness, and growth.” Phoebe started as Chief Executive in May and has since been meeting staff members, delivery partners, and other stakeholders to discuss the local approach. She said: “Government has put a timeline in place and therefore transition planning must commence promptly. Not only will this preserve our legacy, and provide the best outcomes for all of our stakeholders, it will also give greater clarity to our team members in relation to their own futures.” Plans are being made to maintain core functions through to March. Funding has also been agreed to provide Careers Hub support through to August 2024 – the end of the next academic year. “Team members are naturally concerned about the uncertainty around their own functions,” Phoebe added. “The Board has ratified transition, and we will provide that transition with an updated Delivery Plan setting new objectives for each of the team. “This will maximise the value of functions within our existing portfolio, while also positioning us to continue seizing upon opportunities as we move towards March 2024.” The Delivery Plan will be presented to the LLEP Board at its meeting in August.

Blueprint Interiors complete fit-out on iconic 50’s building

Workspace consultants and commercial office interior fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors has completed the fit-out of an iconic high-profile 1950’s office building located on the A5 in Nuneaton. Formerly the original HQ of HORIBA MIRA, the building underwent refurbishment and has been leased as a temporary solution to a Swedish automotive brand, who will eventually move to a brand-new purpose built complex within MIRA Technology Park, one of the UK’s leading locations for automotive research and development. The overarching objective was to be sympathetic to the key features of a 1950’s building whilst also modernising the interior office space to ensure HORIBA MIRA was able to retain its tenant and continue occupancy within the technology park. Delivering the design vision meant stripping out several areas where over the years lowered ceilings and office partitioning had been added. When the ceiling in the reception area was removed an amazing double height space was revealed. This feature is now a central focal point which ‘wows’ visitors and helps to convey a positive first impression. Internally the style takes its lead influence from the building’s iconic original crittal windows. The entire space has been transformed, including a wide variety of functional desk spaces, break out rooms and meeting rooms. Functional features such as toilets and showers have been refitted with modern energy efficient equipment. Mark Rogers, Facilities & Maintenance Manager at HORIBA MIRA, said: “Blueprint Interiors has delivered a great result and we’re delighted with the transformation of the building. We now have the wide variety of workspaces that we required with the building modern, people-focused and climate-controlled with an exceptional main reception.” Chloe Sproston, Creative Director from Blueprint Interiors, added: “The deadline, the budget and some of the 1950s features found during the strip out meant the project presented some unusual challenges, making it truly unique. “It’s given both us and the client great satisfaction to know we’ve breathed new life into a special space that will continue to live for many more years to come. We are very pleased that the feedback about the transformation has been summed up by the client in just one word – amazing!” Based in Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire Blueprint Interiors has previously been involved in the commercial fit-out of the social hub within MIRA Technology Park and has recently completed projects for other high profile brands including The Melton Building Society, Gleeds, Roythornes Solicitors, Worldline and Futures Housing.

Derbyshire timber buildings specialist transitions to Employee Ownership Trust

Geldards has advised Derbyshire-based Arctic Cabins on its transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). A family-run business established over twenty years ago by owner Gareth Parkinson and his Finnish wife Virpi, Arctic Cabins takes inspiration from the Scandinavian lifestyle which places sturdy wooden shelters, often with a central BBQ, in communities and national parks as refuges to be used by the community. The trend for homeworking since the pandemic, coupled with a gardening boom, has seen the demand for practical home office solutions and additional living space skyrocket, and Arctic Cabins have experienced a huge surge in demand for their versatile wooden cabins as a result. Manufactured in Derbyshire, the company relies on its skilled carpenters and craftspeople to produce a high quality range of cabins and BBQ huts and its product range has grown over the years, to include the Cabin Master brand which offers bespoke insulated garden rooms which are hand crafted to customers’ exact specifications. Protecting the hard-won business legacy built up by a dedicated workforce over the decades, was a primary consideration for Gareth when planning for his exit from the business. Keen to secure the future of the business, protect staff jobs and retain highly skilled employees, a transition to an Employee Ownership Trust was the right solution for Arctic Cabins. An Employee Ownership Trust hands ownership of the business to employees, rather than a sale on the open market, and trustees are appointed to ‘look after’ shares in the business on behalf of the employees. The rise in popularity of Employee Ownership Trusts has grown enormously over the past two years, with business owners becoming alive to the benefits that EOTS can offer. They prove to be an effective model to realise a succession plan for business owners, which puts employees at the heart of the decision. Geldards advised Arctic Cabins on the formation of an Employee Ownership Trust and the purchase by the EOT of the entire share capital. Andrew Evans, partner at Geldards, said: “It was great to be instructed by Gareth and the team at Arctic Cabins as long time clients of the firm, and take them through the challenges of a transition to employee ownership. The positive feedback from the initial presentation to all the staff and the enthusiasm of the employee trustees emphasised the suitability of Arctic Cabins for employee ownership. I look forward to continuing to work with Arctic Cabins in the future.”

Frasers Group appoints Mike Ashley as a consultant

Acquisitive retail giant Frasers Group has reportedly appointed its founder Mike Ashley as a consultant. Mike Ashley stepped down as a director of the Shirebrook-based business last year, and will now, according to The Sunday Times, advise the firm on supply chain and operations. The Sunday Times notes that while Ashley will not be paid for his consultancy services, the agreement may raise concerns that he is acting as a shadow director. The company is understood to have taken legal advice. Frasers Group has recently undertaken a flurry of investments, upping its stake in electrical retailer AO to over 22% and snapping up an almost 9% shareholding in Currys, alongside others.

New timber frame factory gets the go-ahead

Approval has been granted by Charnwood Borough Council for the creation of a new Space4 timber frame factory – believed to be the biggest in the UK – on the edge of Loughborough. Following approval from Charnwood Borough Council on 22 June 2023, the state-of-the-art facility will bring up to 120 new jobs to Loughborough and the surrounding areas, whilst also utilising the latest automation technology as part of the manufacturing process. The factory will produce timber frame units for up to 7,000 homes a year and is set to be in full operation towards the end of 2025. Gareth Wicks, Managing Director Designate at Space4, said: “We’re delighted to have received approval for our new Space4 facility and I want to thank Charnwood Borough Council for their support. Not only will the development deliver up to 120 new jobs, it will also further our goal to place sustainable practices at the very heart of our developments. “We’re committed to creating vibrant, successful communities with the environment in mind. We’ll continue to work in partnership with the Council and other stakeholders to ensure our new Space4 factory delivers real benefits for local industry and the wider Loughborough community.” The new Space4 facility will be placed on the Garendon Park Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE), a community of over 3,000 homes on the Garendon Park estate. Across the whole of the SUE, a cumulative figure of over £43m will be paid to support local infrastructure delivery and ensure economic development. Dan Endersby, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes North Midlands, said: “Approval for the new Space4 facility at our Garendon Park development comes at a particularly exciting time as we welcome our first residents and continue to build our presence in Loughborough. “Garendon Park will be one of Persimmon’s flagship communities, with over 3,000 homes, employment and leisure facilities, and a range of preserved historic monuments around the site.”

Car manufacturer to open nationwide training centre in Derby

Car manufacturer KIA is set to drive into St Modwen Park Derby, with the City Council giving the nod to its plans for a nationwide training centre. It means KIA’s existing training centre in Nottingham will be relocated. Utilising a 39,590 sq ft unit, the new training facility would train members of staff employed in KIA’s UK dealerships and workshops, including a mix of apprentices and adult learners. 15-17 full time staff will be employed at the site including tutors, centre manager and administrators. The facility will be operated by Skillsnet who manage a number of similar sites in the UK including the Ford academy. The facility will contain eight training rooms provided at ground and first floor level, together with a theatre/presentation room. The ground floor will also contain a ‘mock-up showroom’ and a large workshop area with a number of workshop bays and test areas. It is anticipated that the facility could accommodate up to 100 trainees per day.

Smiths Property Experts snap up NB Estate Agents

Smiths Property Experts have acquired and taken over the sales operation of competitor NB Estate Agents in Loughborough.

The takeover is part of a wider plan that affords both Smiths and NB clients greater marketing reach, along with access to even more industry experience.

NB have a history of excellence in estate agency, as one of Loughborough’s leading independent firms, with offices located between the ring road and Church Gate.

Tom Smith, Managing Director of East Midlands-based Smiths Property Experts, said: “We are beyond excited to announce this news. As a long-operating competitor, I know only too well that the team have worked tirelessly at NB to establish a fine reputation driven in large part by sales manager, Anna Law.

“Anna is staying in seat and brings years of experience and a determination to succeed on behalf of her clients. Clients past and present, you have my word that we will continue to add to the foundations laid by Anna and the team moving forward.”

Anna Law said: “Having met Tom, Lucinda, and the team at Smiths, I am confident that we will strengthen relationships with our clients and become a force to be reckoned with in our market. For NB clients nothing will change; I am here to provide the support, service, and results that we are known for with an experienced and motivated team.”

Pharma services company refocuses for growth

Nottingham specialist pharmaceutical services company, Oncimmune Holdings, has revealed a new plan for delivery of refocused growth and changes to its board and executive leadership team. It comes after the recent divestment of Oncimmune Limited to Freenome Holdings, Inc., which strengthened Oncimmune’s cash position and provides its ImmunoINSIGHTS services business with guaranteed minimum revenues for at least the next two years from Freenome, as well as allowing Oncimmune to restructure and partly repay its loan with IPF Partners. It also follows losses widening to over £11m at Oncimmune, with administrative and research & development expenses jumping, in the firm’s 2022 financial year, despite a slight revenue rise. Oncimmune’s Board believes the company is now poised to enhance shareholder value by: refocusing commercial efforts towards higher value customers and Oncimmune’s core services offering, continuing to penetrate key customers with whom Oncimmune has long term contractual relationships, partnering with key technology suppliers on cross-selling opportunities, launching new biomarker tools as well as novel service offerings for measurement of certain biomarkers, and carefully controlling and optimally utilising its operational cost base and central overheads. As part of the refocussing of Oncimmune’s business, Dr Adam M Hill will be stepping down as CEO and as a director of the company. Pending the appointment of a permanent successor, the Board has appointed Ron Kirschner, the company’s general counsel and company secretary, as acting CEO, and a director of the company. The company is actively recruiting for additional resources in its leadership team. Alistair Macdonald, Oncimmune’s chairman, said: “The Board would like to thank Adam for his foresight, perseverance and hard work, often in challenging conditions, over the last five years. I also welcome Ron to his new role. “Since joining Oncimmune three years ago, Ron has been an instrumental part of the company’s operational and strategic leadership, providing close support to the Board throughout. The Board is grateful to Ron for stepping up to lead the company as it refocuses and as it builds a new senior executive team. “Certain of the company’s shareholders have recently engaged the Board and executive team to contribute their views on the future strategy of the company, for which I am grateful. The Board believes that the plan we set out today is the one best designed to capitalise on the company’s resources and create value for all shareholders. “I, and the rest of the Board, will continue to engage with our wider stakeholders to ensure that we remain attentive to all views as we deliver best-in-class service offerings to our customers. “Whilst the current headwinds in our sector are expected to lead to a tough end to our financial year ending August 2023, the Board believes that the company now has a solid foundation in place from which to launch the new plan to deliver growth through FY2024 and beyond.” Adam Hill, Oncimmune’s outgoing Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am delighted to have had the opportunity to lead Oncimmune for the last five years. As I transition to a new opportunity, I look forward to seeing the new team drive the next stage of the organisation’s journey.”