Partnership boosts rail telecoms with new infrastructure investment

April Lara
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Partnership boosts rail telecoms with new infrastructure investment

A strategic partnership between Network Rail, Freshwave, and Neos Networks aims to improve the UK’s rail telecoms network by eliminating signal blackspots and modernising the infrastructure. Neos Networks will be responsible for deploying 1,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable along key railway lines, including the East Coast Main Line, Chiltern Main Line, and West Coast Main Line. The initiative will also commercialise spare fibre capacity, creating a robust digital connectivity backbone for businesses. The partners have plans to extend this network to over 5,000 kilometres in the future.

The collaboration addresses the growing demand for high-performance digital infrastructure, driven by factors such as AI growth and data centre capacity. Freshwave will address signal gaps by deploying mobile infrastructure in 57 tunnels along major rail routes, including the 4 km-long Chipping Sodbury tunnel. Mobile connectivity will also be enhanced at 12 key stations, such as Birmingham New Street, Glasgow Central, and King’s Cross, with installations expected to begin in 2026.

These upgrades are crucial for improving Network Rail’s asset monitoring capabilities and enabling advanced technologies like trackside sensors and CCTV. The enhanced network is expected to bring long-term economic benefits, contributing to the UK’s digital future and supporting the formation of Great British Railways.

Plans lodged for a further 53,000 sq ft at new £27m Markham Vale scheme

Tess Egginton
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Plans lodged for a further 53,000 sq ft at new £27m Markham Vale scheme
Developer HBD, part of Henry Boot, has submitted a planning application for the second phase of ARK, a £27m GDV scheme at its flagship M1 industrial and logistics development, Markham Vale. ARK is being delivered by Origin, a joint-venture partnership between HBD and Feldberg Capital. Work began earlier this year on the first phase of the new development, which consists of four units from 17,000 sq ft to 36,000 sq ft. Henry Boot Construction is the contractor for phase one, with the first four units due to complete late 2025. The second phase of ARK will deliver the final 53,000 sq ft unit, with work expected to start on-site in Q4 subject to planning permission being granted. Origin is committed to delivering ESG-compliant I&L space, with ARK meeting stringent sustainability benchmarks, targeting BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating. Markham Vale is a 200-acre industrial and logistics scheme delivered by HBD in joint venture with Derbyshire County Council. It has created more than 2,600 jobs since work began and counts Bilstein Group, Great Bear, Smurfit Westrock and Sterigenics among its occupiers. Vivienne Clements, executive director at HBD, said: “Working with Derbyshire County Council, HBD has delivered 2.5 million sq ft at Markham Vale, creating a very successful industrial and logistics destination. With established demand from logistics and manufacturing businesses, it’s very positive to be able to bring forward a further 53,000 sq ft unit at ARK.” Jamie Acheson, managing director of Feldberg Capital, said: “The submission of planning for ARK’s second phase represents a significant milestone in our strategic partnership with HBD. “This 53,000sq ft unit will complete our vision for a best-in-class industrial development at Markham Vale, addressing the clear market demand we’re seeing in this prime logistics location. “As Origin continues to expand its portfolio of ESG-compliant assets across the UK, ARK exemplifies our commitment to developing sustainable, future-proof industrial spaces that meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.” The agents for ARK are JLL and CPP.

Businesses urged to bolster cyber defences amid rising geopolitical tensions

April Lara
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Businesses urged to bolster cyber defences amid rising geopolitical tensions

UK businesses are facing heightened cybersecurity risks, particularly due to a surge in cyberattacks linked to Iran, following the escalation of the Middle East conflict. Cybersecurity experts have warned of an uptick in attacks from online groups associated with Tehran, targeting both UK-based organisations and entities in the US and Israel.

Analysis by cybersecurity firm EclecticIQ shows a significant increase in cyberattacks since the Israel-Iran conflict began. The firm also reported a growing collaboration between pro-Iranian and pro-Russian hacktivist groups, amplifying the threat to UK businesses.

The UK government has urged businesses to strengthen their cyber defences in light of the growing threat. While some companies are already taking action, authorities stress that all organisations, regardless of size or sector, must urgently review and enhance their cybersecurity measures.

The recent wave of attacks has included Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) assaults on key British businesses, including those in the defence sector. These attacks aim to overwhelm a company’s computer networks with excessive traffic, causing disruptions. In addition to DDoS attacks, businesses have also faced data-deleting malware and an increase in disinformation campaigns.

As the cyber threat landscape evolves, UK businesses are urged to adopt comprehensive resilience and incident response strategies, ensuring they are prepared for potential cyber operations, which may not be immediately obvious or proportional.

West Northamptonshire Council to reshape social housing management

April Lara
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West Northamptonshire Council to reshape social housing management

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is set to take a significant step towards enhancing its social housing services. The Council has approved a proposal to consult tenants on bringing the management of housing services, currently run by Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH), back under direct Council control. This move comes after a review of housing management models and in response to updated regulations under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, which requires local authorities to have direct accountability for housing stock management, even when outsourced.

NPH, an Arm’s Length Management Organisation (ALMO), has been responsible for approximately 11,500 council-owned homes since 2015. However, many local authorities are shifting back to in-house management in recent years, aiming to improve oversight, integration, and resident engagement. WNC’s Cabinet has decided on a phased approach to transfer the service, with a clear plan for the next two years to ensure a smooth transition and continuous service delivery for residents.

A comprehensive consultation will take place, involving tenants, leaseholders, and other key stakeholders to gather feedback and shape the final decision. The goal is to streamline operations, improve service coordination across departments, and ensure better outcomes for West Northamptonshire’s residents.

Pharmacy secures funding for healthy growth

Tess Egginton
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Pharmacy secures funding for healthy growth
Derbyshire-based Peak Pharmacy has secured an eight-figure refinancing package from HSBC UK to help power its growth plans. The funding will support the company’s automation strategy following the development of a new 113,000 sq ft warehouse, known as ‘Horizon’. The facility is designed to boost operational efficiency and increase workforce capacity at their branches by over 50 per cent, allowing pharmacy teams to dedicate more time to patient care. With over 130 pharmacies nationwide, Peak Pharmacy currently supplies approximately 1.5 per cent of the prescriptions in England. The new investment will help the business grow further, with plans for strategic acquisitions and service improvements already underway. The company is also on track to reach a milestone – £200 million in turnover by the end of the year, its highest to date. Joe Cattee, managing director at Peak Pharmacy, said: “HSBC UK really understood what we were looking for and invested time with us. After a very longstanding relationship with our previous banking partner, we felt it was time to explore new opportunities and take the next step in growing our business. “As we invest more in automation and continue prioritising patient service, having HSBC UK by our side gives us the confidence and support to build for the future.” Philip Carr, senior relationship director at HSBC UK, said: “It’s a pivotal time for pharmacies and the role they play in supporting primary healthcare. Businesses like Peak Pharmacy need the headroom and financial flexibility to grow, adapt and keep their patients at the heart of what they do.” Dave Ramsden, head of East Midlands corporate, at HSBC UK, added: “Working with Peak Pharmacy underscores HSBC UK’s commitment to offering tailored solutions that help businesses grow and improve. We’re looking forward to seeing the business continue to thrive and bring even more value to the communities they serve.”

Just one sponsorship spot left for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

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Just one sponsorship spot left for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
With the 10th annual East Midlands Bricks Awards taking place this October, excitement is building for the event, with just one sponsorship spot left for the celebration of the region’s property and construction industry. Attracting leaders from across the East Midlands, the event is the perfect way for businesses to raise their profile, showcase the work they are completing, and create more buzz. With only one spot remaining in the sponsor line-up, Angie Cooper can be contacted at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more. This year’s eagerly anticipated ceremony will make its return on Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham – an evening that will also provide plenty of opportunities to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region.
Guests network at the East Midlands Bricks Awards
The event will additionally welcome Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands – as keynote speaker. Recognising those behind the changing landscape of the East Midlands, the occasion will highlight development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. It will also toast the work of architects, agencies, and those behind large schemes.

Make a nomination

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 is completely free to enter, and making the top three finalists in a category will win you free tickets to the awards ceremony. To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page. 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.

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:

Leicester financial adviser’s charity arm makes £3,500 donation to local causes

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Leicester financial adviser’s charity arm makes £3,500 donation to local causes
The Bobby Dhanjal Foundation, the charity arm of Leicester-based independent financial adviser BDWM, has donated £3,500 to five local causes which do vital work for communities in and around the city. The organisations it supported during the latest round of giving were:
  • Baby Basics Leicester (£500) – A Wigston-based charity, which collects, sorts and distributes Moses basket starter kits, clothing, toiletries and other essential equipment to vulnerable local families who are struggling to provide for their newborn baby or young child.
  • Wishes 4 Kids (£1,000) – A local organisation which makes wishes come true for children and youngsters in Leicestershire who are life-limited, terminally ill, have experienced life-changing physical or emotional traumas or have suffered major abuse.
  • Leicester Children’s Holidays (£1,000) – The foundation continued its longstanding support for this local organisation, which takes vulnerable city children away on a traditional seaside holiday in Mablethorpe, when their families are struggling to afford a break.
  • Treehouse Wellbeing (£500) – A children’s mental health charity which will use the funding to offer accessible therapy and support to children, young people and families in Lutterworth, to enhance the lives of the local community.
  • Thin Blue Paw – An animal welfare charity, which protects, supports and rehabilitates serving and retired police dogs from across the UK.
Bobby Dhanjal, BDWM’s company director and founder, said: “Looking after the communities we serve is a big part of our ethos here at BDWM. “So, we were delighted to be able to support five more local charitable organisations with financial donations from the Bobby Dhanjal Foundation. “All these organisations do such vital work for vulnerable people and groups here in Leicestershire and further afield, and these donations will help them continue to deliver this essential support.” The Bobby Dhanjal Foundation was founded in 2012, with the initial aim of ensuring that all children, from any background, race or religion, have the experience of playing and making new friends in a safe environment. Bobby, who grew up in the city, was eager to give something back to the next generation and invest in its future. The Foundation is made up of funds from personal donations and staff activity and is managed in partnership with the Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation. It selects different community groups and local charities to support with fundraising and other activities each year. Over the years, it has helped to raise and distribute more than £80,000 to local good causes.

£100,000 innovation fund to boost Erewash jobs

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£100,000 innovation fund to boost Erewash jobs
£100,000 is being made available by Erewash Borough Council to help create jobs across the borough, by encouraging local firms to innovate. The boost is in the form of research and development grants that businesses can apply for, with the authority to pay two thirds of the bill for coming up with new products, processes and technologies. Firms that agree to meet a third of their project’s costs can be awarded between £5,000 and £20,000. Cllr Curtis Howard, Erewash’s lead member for planning and regeneration, said: “The latest round of grants uses Government money that the council has secured via the East Midlands Mayor. “We have been offering similar R&D grants since 2022. It means a total of £214,000 has been pumped into the local economy – securing existing jobs and creating new ones. Industries that have been helped range from furniture makers to factories that produce machinery. “We’ve been very proud to support our great local manufacturers – but I’d very much like to see a broader range of local businesses apply and benefit.”

Affinity Workforce Solutions acquires The Protocol Group

April Lara
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Affinity Workforce Solutions acquires The Protocol Group

Affinity Workforce Solutions Ltd. has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of The Protocol Group, based in Nottingham. This strategic move will enhance Affinity’s service offering to education sectors across the UK. The Protocol Group’s three established brands (Protocol FE, Bookmark, and eSafeguarding) will continue to operate independently, now benefiting from Affinity’s expanded national network and resources.

This acquisition enhances the group’s capacity, enabling the placement of approximately 30,000 candidates annually. Affinity’s presence in the East Midlands is strengthened, while its compliance services are further bolstered, primarily through the integration of eSafeguarding, a secure platform for managing DBS checks.

As a Crown Commercial Service-approved supplier, Affinity is known for its managed recruitment solutions for schools, colleges, and Multi-Academy Trusts across the UK. The addition of Protocol’s expertise in further education and digital compliance tools enhances this offering, particularly for public sector clients seeking cohesive recruitment and safeguarding services.

The acquisition is a key part of Affinity’s growth strategy, enabling it to serve its existing clients better while upholding the high-quality standards they expect.

New round of grants for Broxtowe businesses

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New round of grants for Broxtowe businesses
Broxtowe Borough Council has launched a new round of SME business grants from the Broxtowe Business Growth Fund, thanks to funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Local businesses can apply for £2,000 – £7,000 of funding, with up to 40% match funding required, to help support and grow Broxtowe SMEs. Business can use the grants to contribute towards shop and business frontage improvements including signage, street scene or conservation area related initiatives, environmental energy saving measures, disability access improvements, or digital, productivity and ecommerce investments that improve productivity or create jobs. Grants will be available for projects completed between 1 October 2025 and 31 March 2026. Applications are now open and will close on 30 July 2025. Portfolio holder for economic development and asset management, councillor Milan Radulovic MBE, said: “I’m delighted to be able to offer this next round of grants from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to be able to help our local businesses. “UKSPF funding has already done so much good for Broxtowe businesses and I can’t wait to see even more projects be completed that help to support our high streets.”
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