Lee O’Connor appealed against a decision last year (6 July) by Mansfield District Council Planning Applications Committee to refuse outline planning permission for the development with access off Quarry Lane.
A four-day inquiry was held in April at Mansfield Civic Centre during which Siobhan Watson, of the Government’s Planning Inspectorate, heard evidence for and against the development.
Her 10-page decision was issued on Tuesday 14 June and concluded: “Whilst there are some benefits to the scheme, including the provision of market and affordable housing, these do not outweigh the cumulative harm I have found.
“The loss of the GI [Green Infrastructure], whatever type of habitat existed, and the harm to LG [Local Greenspace] and COS [Community Open Space] are sufficient to make the scheme unacceptable even without the additional biodiversity harm.
“The proposal therefore conflicts with the development plan as a whole and does not represent sustainable development.”
The Inquiry heard in April that the development was contrary to the council Local Plan designations on GI and would have an impact on the biodiversity of an important area of peaceful habitat supporting, among other species, certain rare varieties of bat.
The Inspector also decided it would have detracted from the quality of local green spaces – namely Quarry Lane Local Nature Reserve (LNR) – which her report said provided a unique place for school trips and family outings within a heavily built-up area.
She said the quarry and nearby LNR and River Maun Local Wildlife Site (LWS) and the Maun Woodland and Scrub LWS remained important habitats for invertebrates and bats, even though Gregory Quarry had been largely cleared of vegetation before the inquiry.
The inspector said bat surveys that were carried out had been inadequate but still showed that the site was an important foraging habitat for a significant variety of bats. Seven species were spotted, including the rare Leisler’s bat and the serotine species, which is extremely rare in Nottinghamshire and has only been recorded five times in 15 years.
The inspector also pointed to a “clear policy conflict” with the council’s Local Plan as it would involve the loss of a significant area of GI in central Mansfield.
Cllr Stuart Richardson, portfolio holder for regeneration and growth, said: “We are pleased that this decision has recognised the importance and value of retaining areas of green space within an urban environment.
“Even though this quarry is not open to the public, it still represents a valuable natural asset in this part of Mansfield and its continued presence also enhances the quality of local green and open spaces around it.
“Yes, we need more houses – like everywhere in England – but this should not be at any cost. Green corridors are also an important feature of any urban landscape.”
Inspector dismisses planning appeal in homes bid for Mansfield quarry
A planning inspector has dismissed an appeal by a landowner seeking to build 204 houses at Gregory Quarry in Mansfield.
Plans approved for extension of Lincoln business park
North Kesteven District Council has approved plans for a third phase of Kirk’s Yard in Branston, Lincoln.
Kirk’s Yard is a 2.4-acre business park, located approximately 4 miles from Lincoln City Centre, which has been developed by local commercial property developer, Stirlin.
Stirlin completed the first phase of Kirk’s Yard back in March 2019, which comprises 6 industrial units, ranging in size, from 1,000 sq ft to 1,400 sq ft.
Due to high demand, this was swiftly followed with a second phase, which provided 5 more units at slightly larger sizes, ranging from 1,507 sq ft – 2,005 sq ft.
Following the success of these phases, with all units now occupied by a variety of growing businesses, Stirlin have been given the go-ahead to extend the site and construct a further 10 units.
Phase 3 will provide industrial units ranging in sizes from 1,507 sq ft – 2,005 sq ft. Each unit will be built to a high specification, providing warehouse space with an electric sectional door and personnel door, DDA compliant toilet facility and allocated parking spaces.
Managing Director of Stirlin, Tony Lawton, says: “We’re delighted to receive planning approval for a third phase at Kirk’s Yard. Following the significant interest we received for the first two phases, with all units now sold, we’ve seen a strong demand for new employment space in the area.
“The site has proven extremely popular, particularly due to its easy access to the new Lincoln Eastern Bypass, which allows people to avoid traffic congestion in the City Centre.”
Jamie Thorpe, chartered surveyor at the site’s sole estate agency, Pygott & Crone, says: “Stirlin’s development of Kirks Yard in Branston has been hugely successful. Phase 2 saw all units sell off-plan well in advance of build completion and we are experiencing pent up demand in this location, with a waiting list of enquires. It comes as no surprise that the Local Authority welcomed a much-needed extension to the business park that will facilitate business growth and job creation in the area.”
Tony continues: “In addition to this scheme, we have numerous other new developments and phases on the horizon. We are continuously exploring opportunities to provide more space to facilitate growing businesses and bring further employment to the county.”
Construction of the new phase on Kirk’s Yard is due to start on site in the coming months, with further details to be announced very soon.
Sports tech business secures £250,000
Nottingham-based BatFast has received £250,000 of funding via the Recovery Loan Scheme which will enable the company to invest in its sales and marketing resources, creating 15 new jobs, and undertake further product development.
BatFast is a sports technology and entertainment business that has developed a patented augmented reality sports simulator for cricket, tennis and baseball. The simulator aims to make team sports more accessible by re-engineering pitches to fit inside urban entertainment or training spaces.
Founded by ex-professional cricketer Runish Gudhka and co-founder Jignesh Patel, BatFast has supplied simulators to multi-entertainment centre operators globally and major cricket events, including during the 2019 Cricket World Cup and the 2021-22 Ashes series in Australia.
Runish Gudhka, CEO of BatFast, said: “BatFast has a clear mission to use technology to drive increased global participation in sports. We are grateful for the support from MEIF and Maven Capital Partners and are excited about the opportunities this investment will create.”
Jonathan Lowe, investment director at MEIF Maven, said: “BatFast have developed an incredibly engaging sports simulator which has broad appeal to experienced and new players alike. We look forward to supporting the company with its global expansion and help realise its future growth and success.”
Will Morlidge, interim Chief Executive at D2N2 LEP, said: “I’m delighted to see the Midlands Engine Investment Fund supporting another dynamic and ambitious business. BatFast is a great example of a firm innovating and adapting to accelerate growth and provide job opportunities, supporting our collective ambitions for inclusive economic growth across the region.”
Nottingham-based supplier of renewable, low-carbon fuel secures funding to drive growth plans
Maven has funded Nottingham-based Roadgas, through MEIF Maven Debt Finance. The business has ambitious growth plans and plans to use the funding to help achieve its goals.
The business designs, manufactures, installs and maintains liquefied and compressed renewable gas refuelling stations, and will use the funding for the installation of dedicated refuelling stations across the UK.
Since 2007, Roadgas has established a strong reputation for its engineering capability and the business has delivered a large number of renewable gas refuelling infrastructure projects to date. It works with several fleet operators across both the public and private sector, including Nottingham City Transport, which owns and operates a fleet of 167 biogas double-decker buses as part of its campaign and commitment to improved air quality.
Growth capital will finance the construction of four new refuelling fuel charging stations in the UK, which will dispense lower carbon density gases only, including bio-BioCNG, b, Bio-LNG and bBiomethane.
David Rix, Managing Director of Roadgas, said: “The exciting expansion plans we have for Roadgas require additional financial support and resources beyond anything the company has seen before. We are delighted to partner with Maven Capital Partners and especially Richard Brighty, who continues to work with us with regard to our financial planning and investments.
“Roadgas has a progressive leadership team, bringing together many years of experience in the gas industry, coupled with an ambitious strategic vision for our continued growth over the next five to seven years to keep us at the forefront of the UK’s green recovery.”
Richard Brighty, investment manager for Maven, said: “Roadgas is delivering an effective solution to the problem of greenhouse gas and carbon emissions in the transport sector. Roadgas is already working with major clients in the haulage and logistics sectors and their strong management team will only accelerate the company’s growth. We look forward to working with David and Becky Rix and watching their team continue to shape and lead this high growth sector.”
790-bed student scheme tipped for approval
Plans for a major student scheme at the site of Forest Mill on Alfreton Road, Nottingham, have been recommended for approval.
The development would house 790 student bedspaces, together with leisure and retail facilities, while 19 family houses are also included in the proposals for the currently vacant site. The family housing is to be provided for a housing association and would be entirely affordable units.
The student element of the scheme is spread over three buildings that front onto Alfreton Road, Highurst Street and Thackeray Street. The tallest element of the scheme would reach to eight storeys, stepping down along Alfreton Road to the former Lloyds bank building on the corner of Boden Street.
Three types of student accommodation are proposed; town houses, cluster apartments, and studios.
What does success mean to you? By Fiona Duncan-Steer, founder of RSViP Business Networking Agency
Fiona Duncan-Steer, founder of RSViP Business Networking Agency, considers what it means to be successful.
This month I have been celebrating fourteen years in business and as many do in conjunction with business anniversaries, I have been milking the occasion for all it is worth by running various campaigns and incentives to my audience.
Reaching this kind of milestone in business has also brought on feelings of reflection and gratitude. Appreciation that after fourteen whole years my business RSViP is still standing, still going strong, and still fulfilling me after all these years.
I have often been asked what my definition of success is and my response is this;
🔑 To wake up every day and look forward to what lies ahead.
🔑To feel true job satisfaction.
🔑To make a difference to others and to the world in some way.
🔑To be accountable for my own actions and to be able to choose who I surround myself with.
🔑To have creative freedom to design and build.
🔑To find the work life balance that suits me and those close to me.
🔑To appreciate and never take for granted the lifestyle my business has afforded me.
🔑To love what I do. Every. Single. Day.
The revenue is just a bi-product and I am in no doubt that if you prioritise all of the above then the money will come – look at tech giants such as Elon Musk who’s main objective was to solve a problem, explore and push boundaries, and to turn what he loves into a business and in turn happened to become one of the richest people in the world in doing so. Steve Jobs – another who’s creative urge led him to launch one of the largest brands in the world, which is still as popular today even after his death; his products making a huge impact and connecting people all over the world.
On a much smaller scale, I still do a little dance each time a new member joins my network, or an exciting enquiry turns into a training, speaking or coaching gig, as I have never allowed myself to become complacent in my business, always striving for growth and development – always looking to help others and make a positive impact in some way, however small.
The pandemic has definitely thrown my industry of events and training into chaos, but I, amongst many others, have chosen to rise and overcome the challenges faced and so this month I celebrate the return of the events industry, I celebrate my business still going strong and I celebrate me, yes me – because if you don’t blow your own trumpet once in a while, who will?
Fiona Duncan-Steer, RSViP www.rsvipnetwork.co.uk www.fionaduncansteer.com
New route through Broad Marsh site opens up new opportunities
A new pedestrian route is to be opened up across the demolished section of the former Broadmarsh shopping centre, showing fresh progress for an area of the city that’s undergoing huge change.
The route will provide uninterrupted open air access between the Southside of the city into the city centre for the first time since the Broadmarsh centre was built in the early 1970s. The building created a huge barrier, requiring visitors to be funnelled through part of the shopping mall to get into the heart of the city. More recently, a covered walkway has been in place to maintain pedestrian access during demolition.
City Council leader, Cllr David Mellen, said: “There are huge changes underway in the Broad Marsh area, with vastly improved streets creating pleasant areas to walk and relax, along with the new car park that’s already open, bus station that’s now started running coach services and the Central Library where fit-out gets underway this summer.
“Of course, one of the major changes is the demolition of the former shopping centre, which makes way for a fantastic vision of what could replace it. We’re pleased that this phase of demolition is now nearing completion, allowing us to open up a new open air pedestrian route between the Southside and city centre for the first time in almost fifty years.
“This is a small but significant step towards creating a reimagined gateway to the city that will play an important role in Nottingham’s future, making it a more attractive and accessible part of the city.”
Now that contractors Willmott Dixon acting on behalf of the City Council have demolished a substantial section of the shopping centre, including areas most recently occupied by Argos, BHS, Boots and TK Maxx among others, it’s possible to provide a pedestrian link between Collin Street and Listergate.
The new route will open later this summer with the previous covered walkway being closed. The move comes as work progresses on extensive improvements to the streets around the new Broad Marsh Car Park, Bus Station and Central Library building – with work to fit out the library due to get underway this summer and National Express starting operating from the new bus station earlier this week.
The section of Carrington Street alongside the new building is now completely pedestrianised and features planting and benches, with the area alongside Middle Hill near the new Nottingham College building given similar treatment. The section of Canal Street alongside the new building is now only accessible for buses, taxis and cycles – reducing another barrier in the city.
The work – funded through a successful bid for the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund – will also see Collin Street transformed from four lanes of heavy traffic to a public space between the new library and what will become the reimagined Broad Marsh area, linked to the Sussex Street area near the college via amphitheatre steps.
The new pedestrian route across the site will eventually be fully developed to tie in with the Collin Street improvements and become part of the ‘green heart’ space that’s been set out in the vision for the Broad Marsh site. The walkway will be four metres wide, with lighting and CCTV and bollards at either end, fenced off from the demolition site either side with windows to see progress on the site.
75 new homes coming to Keyworth
A local housebuilder has revealed that a further 75 new homes will be built as part of a development in Keyworth.
Redrow East Midlands’ Nicker Hill development already features a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom family homes built as part of the development’s first phase.
The new phase will also bring a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes.
Ryan O’Sullivan, sales director for Redrow East Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing an additional 75 new homes to Keyworth as part of our Nicker Hill development.
“Homes at Nicker Hill offer versatile layouts that allow for time spent together as a family, as well as additional bedrooms suitable for growing families, or those looking for versatile space that can serve as a study, playroom, games room or even wellness space.
“This development, which includes houses from our award-winning Heritage Collection, has proven to be a hit with buyers searching for authentic 1930s charm blended with a modern and high-spec interior.”
Expand your network at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022
Taking place on Thursday 15 September, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2022, a stand-out event in the business calendar, will celebrate the region’s property and construction industry while providing a prime opportunity to connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks.
The event will additionally feature John Forkin MBE DL, Managing Director at award-winning investment promotion agency Marketing Derby, as keynote speaker, as well as award-winning mind reader, magician, and professional mentalist Looch, who will bewilder and astonish guests during the evening’s networking.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Tickets can now be booked for the awards event – click here to secure yours.
With nominations OPEN for East Midlands Business Link’s annual Bricks Awards, submit your entries for the prestigious event now – showcase your business, team and projects. Award categories include: most active estate agent, commercial development of the year, responsible business of the year, residential development of the year, developer of the year, deal of the year, architects of the year, excellence in design, sustainable development of the year, contractor of the year, and overall winner. To submit a business or development please click on a category link below or visit this page.- Most active estate agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, the winner will be selected from those nominated)
William Crooks, Managing Director of Cawarden, reflected on winning an award in 2021: “After being named Contractor of the Year at the British Demolition Awards at the start of September, we were absolutely thrilled to win the same accolade from the East Midlands Bricks Awards a few weeks later. The event is a real showcase for the regional property and construction sector and we are proud to be recognised for our project and service delivery expertise as a leading specialist contractor.
“It was a great night and provided an opportunity to catch up with some familiar faces as well as meeting new with the wonderful Trent Bridge Cricket Ground as a backdrop. Well done to the Cawarden team for continuously going above and beyond and maintaining high standards for our valued clients. Congratulations must also go to all the other awards finalists and award winners on the night.”
Dress code is standard business attire.
To be held at:
‘Repurposing place’ the theme of Derby Property Summit 2022
The repurposing of place will be the central theme when the Derby Property Summit returns next month.
Featuring a top line-up of respected keynote speakers, the event will take place in Derby city centre on Wednesday 13 July.
Now held as a hybrid event – with delegates present in person and online – it is set to attract business leaders, key decision-makers and investors from across the region and beyond.
Organised by Marketing Derby, the Derby Property Summit will once again be hosted by BBC and LBC business journalist Declan Curry.
This year’s event will explore the role that inward investment, green growth and foreign direct investment can play in repurposing Derby and the towns of Derbyshire in the post-COVID recovery.
It will take place at the QUAD cinema, with the forthcoming Urban Forest installation, in the Market Place, providing the backdrop – epitomising the ‘repurposing of place’ theme.
As a result of the global pandemic, the world has changed – as has customer expectations of place. Blue and green spaces have become more valued – and this year’s Derby Property Summit will explore how Derby and Derbyshire is reacting to this change.
It will showcase £2 billion of current and upcoming development and regeneration opportunities in both the city and county – and will look at how many of these schemes have been designed to support a more sustainable future.
This year there will be an enviable line-up of keynote speakers, who will share international, national and local perspectives.
The line-up includes Courtney Fingar, editor-in-chief of Global Data’s Investment Monitor, Paul Simpson, Chief Executive of Derby City Council and Chris Henning, executive director of place at Derbyshire County Council.
There will also be talking head contributions from economist Jim O’Neill, Baron O’Neill of Gatley, and businessman Sir Tim Smit, the man behind Cornwall’s Eden Project, who is backing plans by Down to Earth for a nature-based regeneration of Derby.
John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby, said: “We feel that this year will be our most important summit as we look to repurpose our cities and towns. While the challenge is shared, the solutions must be bespoke to each place. We are hoping the line-up of speakers will provide insights and learning that will help shape our plans going forward.”
As well as the speakers, the summit will feature a number of films and presentations, which will show why Derby and Derbyshire is a great place to live, work, invest and play. The summit will also demonstrate the confidence that is being shown by investors in the city and county, creating genuine economic momentum.
Such confidence is not misplaced according to the latest Irwin Mitchell UK Powerhouse report, which said that Derby’s economy will be the fastest growing in the East Midlands by the end of 2023.
Key schemes driving this growth are listed in the Derby Investment Prospectus and the recently created Derbyshire Investment Prospectus, both of which will be showcased at the Derby Property Summit.
