Buxton Opera House secures vital funding
Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre have been successful in their application for funding from Theatres Trust.
Together with nineteen other venues spanning across the United Kingdom, the High Peak Theatre Trust (operators of Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre) will receive the grant award through the Small Grants Programme with The Linbury Trust.
The funding will be used towards the modernisation and futureproofing of the backstage communications system within the Grade II*-listed Buxton Opera House. This project is being undertaken to continue to offer the best experiences to touring productions and in-house productions, as well as providing industry standard training opportunities to young people across the local areas.
Amy Simcox, Head of Development at Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre, welcomed the news of Buxton Opera House’s successful funding application through the Small Grants Programme with The Linbury Trust: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded this funding to improve our backstage communications system.
“The new system will be a vital contribution in enabling us to support young people to learn brand new technical skills, forming the foundation of a potential career in arts production. This funding also means we can continue to offer a great experience to both our touring and in-house productions for years to come. We are very grateful to the Theatres Trust for their support.”
Jon Morgan, Director of Theatres Trust also offered his congratulations to Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre in their successful grant award: “Theatres Trust is delighted to support this wonderful theatre with a project that will benefit young people training in theatre skills, audiences and performers alike. This is exactly type of project that our Small Grants Programme with The Linbury Trust was designed to fund.”
Logistex wins significant automation contract for Yusen Logistics (UK) Ltd in Northampton
Logistex have secured a significant automation contract with Yusen Logistics (UK) for their new 1.2 million square foot warehouse facility in Northampton.
This Sustainable Distribution Centre (SDC), with a total capacity of 240,000 pallet locations, will serve as an automated shared user facility for both B2B and B2C operations, featuring two distinct chambers for Pharmaceutical and Ambient activities.
Logistex’s scope includes an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) with Aisle Changing and Fixed Aisle cranes, an Automated 4-way Pallet Shuttle solution tailored for Pharmaceutical clients, and a further Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) Goods to Person solution servicing both Pharma and Ambient chambers.
Logistex’s warehouse system, Reflex, will directly interface with all technologies and automation equipment providers, ensuring complete inventory and picking control.
Justin Saw, Business Development Director at Logistex, said: “The team at Logistex have collaborated closely with Yusen Logistics (UK) throughout the tender process, establishing a strong partnership. With the freedom to integrate best-in-class technology to optimise the solution, this collaboration showcases Logistex’s capabilities as a systems integrator at the highest level.”
Benjamin Bird, Business Development and Solutions Director at Yusen Logistics, said: “This project represents a strategic milestone in our commitment to delivering sustainable logistics services before 2030, giving our customers net zero warehousing solutions.
“It will also empower Yusen Logistics to meet the future needs of our customers through shared user automation, able to deliver B2B & D2C operations. Alongside the Sustainable Distribution Centre’s proximity to the new rail terminal, it is ideally positioned to offer further carbon reduction incentives for our customers and create a full operation that has ESG at its heart.”
Large firms to be held to account over late payments
The government has unveiled new measures to eradicate late payments from large firms to small ones and the self-employed, which are estimated to cost small firms £22,000 a year on average and lead to 50,000 business closures each year.
All large businesses will be required to include payment reporting in their annual reports – putting the onus on them to provide clarity in their annual reports about how they treat small firms. This will mean company boards and international investors will be able to see how firms are operating.
Enforcement will also be stepped up on the existing late payment performance reporting regulations which require large companies to report their payment performance twice a year on GOV.UK.
Under current laws, responsible directors at non-compliant companies who don’t report their payment practices could face criminal prosecutions including potentially unlimited fines and criminal records.
The consultation which will be launched in the coming months, will also consider a range of further policy measures that could help address poor payment practices.
Every quarter, 52% of small firms in the UK suffer from late payments, meaning roughly 2.6 million small firms face this issue, with the Federation of Small Businesses describing it as one of the biggest problems facing SMEs.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Late payments are simply unacceptable and this government is determined to level the playing field for small business. When the cashflow runs dry, small firms go under, which is why we need to hold larger business to account with their payment practices and foster an environment that supports growth and jobs.
“Slashing trade barriers, reforming business rates, getting more SMEs exporting – this government is committed to small firms. We know there’s a lot more to be done, but today we are calling time on late payers once and for all.”
Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair at the FSB, said: “This is what real change looks like. Listening to small firms and prioritising action to tear down each and every barrier to growth.
“The Business Secretary has clearly recognised the importance of eradicating bad payment culture, which so devastates the UK supplier base and holds back growth. This series of actions today – including the crucial steps being taken to deliver on Jonathan Reynolds’ commitment on audit committees – shows the Government is rightly focused on delivery and working in partnership with the business community.“There will be so many decisions the Government needs to get right, early – an actively pro-small business budget, a good industrial strategy and tackling late payment. Announcing this programme of work today is a huge confidence boost for the small business community and a clear signal the new Government intends to stand up for small firms.”
East Midlands fruit and vegetable importers brace for more border checks after government delay
East Midlands Chamber has called for simplification of international import rules, following news the government have postponed checks on some fruit and vegetables entering the UK by six months.
Physical checks on ‘medium risk’ items entering the UK from the European Union were due to be in place from 1st January but the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) have announced the date is to be pushed back to 1st July 2025.
East Midlands Chamber Director of Partnerships David Pearson said: “While deferring the date of so-called ‘medium risk’ fruit and veg border checks coming in will temporarily ease some of the burden on businesses already grappling with the reams of paperwork needed to trade internationally, importing goods remains a challenge.
“There are costs associated with importing most goods to the UK and the time taken to fill in forms is a hindrance to businesses.
“Reforming International Trade is one of the key asks of the Chamber’s Manifesto for Growth and for the East Midlands to thrive, it’s essential that the new government prioritise lifting the many barriers that complicate import and export.
“With the upcoming Autumn Budget, the new government has an opportunity to support businesses that trade internationally, simplifying things like guidance on rules of origin and I urge them to seize those opportunities.”
Europe’s largest independent gas turbine service provider moves to Teal Park
Gas Turbine Services has signed a new lease on 13,347 sq ft of industrial accommodation on Teal Park on Lincoln’s Whisby Road.
The firm is moving from its current Leafbridge Business Park premises to Teal Park – regarded as the epicentre of industrial gas turbine maintenance in the Lincoln area.
The move to Teal Park follows identification by the business, two years ago, that its Leafbridge Business Park facility would limit future expansion, not only in engine throughput but also in responsiveness to the ongoing changes and competitive demands of the energy market.
The new base at Teal Park sees Gas Turbine Services move to a facility which was originally built and designed for the express purpose of gas turbine support & maintenance and, according to Robert Dye, Technical Director and co-owner, the new base means a swift and seamless transition to meet the company’s current and future expansion requirements.
He said: “For our specific sector specialisation, there was never any question of relocating outside of the Lincoln area – especially taking into account the wealth of local expertise and knowledge as we recruit and expand our business.”
Eddison’s Director William Wall, who led the property deal on behalf of the landlord, added: “Gas turbines are one of the long-established specialisms of the manufacturing sector in Lincoln and the surrounding area.”
“The county’s position on the map, with access to the east coast ports and a road network to the engineering hinterland of the East Midlands, makes it a prime location for operators in the energy sector.”
Gas Turbine Services, part of the Anglo-Danish HKJ Group, was established more than 30 years ago. Headquartered in Esbjerg, Denmark, it has been operationally based in the Lincoln area for the past 16 years.
Shortlist revealed for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Business Link can now reveal the shortlist for this year’s highly anticipated East Midlands Bricks Awards – THE event for Property & Construction in 2024.
Showcasing the outstanding work of those behind the changing landscape of our region, the Bricks Awards features a diverse range of categories and a glittering awards ceremony that will host many of the region’s industry leaders. This event is also an ideal opportunity to celebrate and network with the very best in the business.
The awards ceremony announcing the winners will take place on Thursday 3rd October, at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground.
East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
When: Thursday 3rd October 2024, 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Where: The Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground
Keynote speaker: Paul Southby, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire
Dress code: Standard business attire
Tickets: Available at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/east-midlands-bricks-awards-2024-tickets-902294566337?aff=oddtdtcreator
Thanks to our sponsors:
Book your place at the awards now to avoid disappointment!
The event will begin at 4:30pm and continue until 7:30pm, with plenty of time for networking and celebrating. The occasion will additionally feature Paul Southby as keynote speaker. Paul is a partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema in Nottingham’s Lace Market, and a longstanding trustee of environmental charity Clean Rivers Trust. He is chair of Nottingham Partners, a group of businesses that supports the work of the local inward investment agency, Invest in Nottingham, and a board member and past chair of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Limited. Paul is also a former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire (2022/23).Shortlist for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Architects of the Year – sponsored by Mather Jamie IMA Architects Design Haus Architecture Matthew Montague Architects Commercial Development of the Year – sponsored by Global HSE Group Brackley Property Developments – The Dock Extension, Leicester Pick Everard – Nottingham Central Library G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark Contractor of the Year – sponsored by EMEC Ecology Cawarden Clegg Construction Winvic Deal of the Year – sponsored by Tutum Consulting heb Surveyors – The Oaks, Mansfield FI Real Estate Management – The Quad, Chesterfield Freeths – Former Boots factory site, Beeston Developer of the Year – sponsored by IMA Architects Vistry Group East Midlands Indurent Wavensmere Homes Excellence in Design – sponsored by Cawarden G F Tomlinson – The Air and Space Institute, Newark Design Haus – Musters Road Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn Most Active Agent – sponsored by Roy Geddes Bricks Rigby & Co FHP Property Consultants Salloway Property Consultants Residential Development of the Year – sponsored by Devello Distinctive Developments – Woodwell and Meadow Barn Phoenix Brickwork UK LTD – IQ Nelson Court Chevin Homes – Chevin Close Responsible Business – sponsored by Press for Attention PR Stepnell Ltd Cawarden Cora Sustainable Development of the Year – sponsored by Viridis Building Services Ltd CPMG – Sir Peter Rubin Centre for Veterinary Education Henry Brothers Construction Ltd – Alfreton Park School Keepmoat – Gedling Green The Overall Winner, sponsored by Blueprint Interiors, will also be announced at the ceremony, who will be awarded a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000.
To be held at:
Strong sales see Next upgrade expectations
Enderby-based retailer Next has upgraded its expectations for the year following strong half year results.
In the half year ending July 2024, total group sales rose to more than £2.9bn, up from £2.7bn in the same period of 2023.
Meanwhile, Next Group profit before tax saw a 7.1% increase to £452m from £422m.
The business has also seen a robust start to its second half, with full price sales over the first six weeks materially exceeding expectations, being up 6.9%.
As a result, second half full price sales growth has been upgraded to be up 3.7% versus last year (previous guidance +2.5%), and full year, full price sales are now expected to be up 4.0%, with total Group sales (including subsidiaries) up 6.6%.
Furthermore, full year pre-tax profit guidance has been increased by £15m to £995m (up 8.4% on last year).
On upgrading its full year sales and profit guidance, Next said: “We are upgrading the profit guidance we issued on 1 August by +£15m to £995m. This is as a result of the strength of our full price sales over the last six weeks.
“We now estimate that full price sales in the second half will be up +3.7% (against our previous estimate of +2.5%). This represents an increase of £30m of full price sales which, after accounting for other anticipated changes in our cost base, is expected to deliver an additional £15m of profit.”
Rolls-Royce to sell Naval Propulsors & Handling business
Rolls-Royce has reached an agreement to sell its Naval Propulsors & Handling business to Fairbanks Morse Defense.
The sale comprises the naval propulsors units in Pascagoula, Mississippi and Walpole, Massachusetts, in the US, as well as the specialized naval handling systems unit in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.
The Naval Propulsors & Handling business manufactures and supports a range of specialist propellers and waterjets for naval applications, as well as specialized handling systems that enable the deployment and recovery of manned and unmanned craft, and other cargo, from naval vessels.
Rolls-Royce will retain its Naval Gas Turbines and Generator Sets operations, which provide power dense solutions for naval propulsion and onboard power needs.
Adam Riddle, President – Defense and Chairman & CEO, Rolls-Royce North America, said: “Rolls-Royce Naval Propulsors & Handling is an industry leader and trusted supplier to navies around the world.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Fairbanks Morse Defense, who recognizes the value of this business and the outstanding opportunities for its strong future. We believe this transaction represents the best outcome for the business, its people and the military customers they serve.”
Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution deal gets the green light
Devolution for Greater Lincolnshire is to go ahead, bringing together North East Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, and Lincolnshire County Council together as the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority.
It’s expected that devolution will progress through its final legislative stage to allow the forming of the new authority before the Mayoral election next May.
The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson said: “I am sure I share the sentiments of the Leaders of Lincolnshire County Council and North Lincolnshire Council, when I say this is the best possible news we could have hoped for. Months and months of dedicated hard work and effort has been put into creating a vision for Greater Lincolnshire that will offer a cohesive approach – allowing this region to grow and prosper.
“Our deal was supported by the last Government with millions of pounds of funding agreed to be devolved down to our new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority to ensure we would be able to truly invest in our key priority areas, which will underpin our positive way forward.
“I am therefore delighted that Greater Lincolnshire devolution continues to have the support of the country’s new Government and I now look forward to continuing our journey towards more local control with funding and powers handed to those who are closer to the communities they serve. We have a chance to make a real difference.”
Lincolnshire County Council Leader Martin Hill said: “This is great news and I’m pleased we are able to move forward with devolution to deliver growth in Greater Lincolnshire. We have always been clear that strengthening local decision-making where we consider the needs and wants of our communities, will give the best results for residents and businesses.
“It’s clear that having a Mayoral Combined Authority will give us the ability to liaise directly with the government about what is best for our residents and be able to achieve our ambitious plans more quickly. The decision to take this forward reflects our strong partnership work with North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire councils, and the hard work we have all put in to making sure it’s the right deal for our area.”
Cllr Rob Waltham of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Our £720m deal was supported by thousands of residents and has been on the table for years and negotiated earlier this year. At last, we can get to work on seizing this monumental opportunity – bringing better paid jobs to the area, boosting skills, expanding local infrastructure and enhancing our environment across Lincolnshire.
“We will continue to strengthen ties across our great historic county – I am incredibly proud to have been born, educated and lived and worked in Lincolnshire for most of my life and to have 10 generations of my family living throughout Lincolnshire. We are a great county full of inspirational people who deserve the best opportunities for them and their families as we seek to level up Lincolnshire to deliver a better quality of life for local residents.”
The financial Deal remains the same as finalised between the three lead authorities and the previous Government, with a total investment fund of three-quarters of a billion pounds over the next 30 years. This includes an annual £24m Mayoral Investment Fund to invest in priority areas of jobs and skills; housing & highways, transport, the environment and nature, net zero, digital improvements, and innovation and trade. There is also an initial capital funding pot of £28m including brownfield funding for individual schemes across Greater Lincolnshire.
Leicester College breaks ground on new Aeronautical and Space Engineering Technology Centre
Leicester College has officially broken ground on the construction of it’s new, state-of-the-art Aeronautical and Space Engineering Technology Centre at the Abbey Park Campus.
The new facility, which is scheduled for completion by May 2025, will deliver Level 4 and 5 technical skills, and will provide crucial support for the aeronautical and aerospace industries.
The new 800-square-metre building will be home to workshops, propulsion, aerodynamic, avionic and instrumentations laboratories, and collaborative working spaces. It is designed to support the growing need for skilled professionals in the aerospace industry, which is projected to require over 10,000 additional aerospace engineers in England by 2033.
Leicester College is working with main contractor, Wilten Construction, on the new facility.
Shabir Ismail, Deputy Principal at Leicester College, said: “We are so excited to break ground on our new facility, set to enhance technical skills in the aeronautical and aerospace industries. This facility is not just a building; it’s a demonstration of our commitment to supporting our regional network of employers and stakeholders and building a skilled workforce for the future.
“As the demand for aerospace engineers continues to grow, this project will play a crucial role in addressing that need. We’re excited about welcoming students to the new building next year and look forward to the positive impact it will have on the industry and beyond.”
Phoebe Dawson, Director of Business and Skills at LLBSP, added: “It’s a really exciting time for the college and the city. The UK space sector is worth more than £18.9 billion and growing twice as fast as the UK economy, and it currently employes 52,000 people.
“But staff recruitment is frequently referenced as the biggest constraint to growth and this facility will provide a clear pathway in a broad range of subjects and deliver a talent pipeline for those organisations in that sector locally.
“As a business and skills partnership, we are determined to close the gap between the roles and jobs of the future, and the skills that will be required. This facility is going to go some way to supporting that.”
