The grants could help them boost productivity, improve community buildings or to improve accessibility to tourist attractions and green open spaces that support local communities and businesses.
The scheme aimed at boosting the rural economy launched Round three of funding on Monday (8th July 2024) with around £80,000 of capital only funding available. Applications will be treated on a first come first served basis until all funding has been allocated.
The scheme, made possible thanks to £400,000 from Rural England Prosperity Fund in 2023, has been extremely popular and has already seen a wide range of businesses and organisations funded to make business performance improvements, purchase new machinery and vehicles and install energy efficiency measures.
Those eligible for the grant include businesses and local organisations that wish to invest in new technologies and equipment that increase productivity; protect and improve local historic buildings and tourism venues which can include new kitchens, energy efficiency improvements and cultural offerings; provide diversification outside of agriculture and develop local tourism attractions.
There are a range of grants available, with funds from £7,500 to £22,500. The grants also have an intervention rate of 75%, meaning businesses and organisations need only find a minimum of 25% of the total eligible project costs to apply.
Executive Member for Rural Affairs at the Borough Council, Councillor Martin Cartwright said: “We are delighted to be able to continue to offer these grants to support our rural communities and businesses, helping them to thrive especially given the challenging and difficult circumstances over the recent years.
“Due to the amount on offer, we are expecting these grants to be very competitive, so please apply straight away if you think you’ll be eligible. Our thanks to the Rural England Prosperity Fund for helping to make this possible.”
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council makes £80,000 available to boost rural businesses
Rural businesses and organisations are being invited to apply for grants by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council.
Nottingham City Council sets out plan to bring about improvements
Nottingham City Council has drawn up a blueprint for how it will become a financially sustainable, resilient and better run organisation.
The Council’s Improvement Plan, due to be discussed by its Executive Board on 16 July, addresses the issues and challenges which led to the Government’s appointment of Commissioners to oversee the authority. The Plan has been developed and agreed with the Commissioners and will guide the improvement required across the Council over the next 2 years.
Delivery of the Plan will result in a Council that looks, feels and operates significantly differently to the way it currently does. It will enable the Council to be:
- A Council that delivers for Nottingham with a clear direction and purpose – a clear vision and purpose will guide the transformation of the organisation, its budget strategy, workforce development, and future priorities for the city and its residents; and clearly explain how the council will deliver, enable and influence others to achieve those priorities.
- A Council that is financially sustainable – The Council needs to ‘live within its means’ and be able to deliver a balanced budget and sustainable financial plan. This will be attained through the delivery of credible savings plans, robust financial management, improved commercial practice, and a programme of capital assets disposal.
- A Council that is well run with effective people, processes and systems – The Council will continue to modernise how it operates and improve its productivity and operational efficiency so it can deliver to the best of its ability. This includes strengthening governance, making sure roles and responsibilities are clearly understood, and looking at how service delivery is supported and enabled by business processes and systems.
Over £17k raised by East Midlands business at annual charity football event
A provider of innovative technology solutions has helped raise over £17,000 in support of fundraising initiative The Transaid Cup.
Working alongside the charity and Libra Europe, 15 Microlise Group employees took to the pitch at Ilkeston Town F.C. to compete against 14 other industry teams.
The teams played against each other in a 7-aside format, with Dawsongroup going head-to-head with Brigade in the final match, stealing the crown with an impressive 3-0 victory. Other teams in attendance on the day included Blue Cube, Boughey, Goodyear, GXO, Iron Mountain, RHA, MAN, Libra Europe and Michelin.
Creed generously supported the event for a second year in a row, providing items for the tuck shop for team players to enjoy at the end of the day – including soft drinks, crisps, snacks and ice creams. All teams also provided a raffle prize up to the value of £50.
The money raised will go directly to international development organisation, Transaid, which helps to transform lives through safe, available and sustainable transport in sub-Saharan Africa.
The charity works closely with local communities, government agencies, and the private sector to develop sustainable transportation systems and advocate for policy changes that enhance mobility and improve road safety.
The Transaid Cup offered multiple avenues for participation, including team registrations, spectating, volunteering, and company sponsorship. Its JustGiving page is still open for donations.
Nadeem Raza, Microlise Group’s CEO, said: “Following the success of last year’s event, where we raised £15,000, we are delighted to extend our support for Transaid this year.
“Its dedication to increasing road safety and supporting the career development of drivers closely aligns with our own in-house values. We’re hugely proud of our team members for making the day a huge success and we’re looking forward to continuing to support such a worthy cause.”
Caroline Barber, Chief Executive at Transaid, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Transaid’s long-term corporate partner Microlise, for their generosity and support.
“It’s incredibly heartwarming to see the industry come together to support our charity, raising vital unrestricted funds which will enable us to save lives through our vital work in improving road safety in sub-Saharan Africa. The day was a great success!”
Head of BDO Midlands celebrates two years at the helm with new senior appointment
Accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO has added its Midlands Regional Managing Partner, Kyla Bellingall, to its new national Leadership Team.
The appointment follows the election of Mark Shaw as the firm’s new Managing Partner with both appointments effective from 1st October 2024. Kyla’s leadership team role will focus on regions, markets and sectors and she will continue as Regional Managing Partner in the Midlands.
Kyla has more than 25 years’ experience having joined the profession as a school leaver apprentice. She joined BDO as an Audit Partner in 2015 with a focus on developing a not-for-profit sector group in the Midlands. Prior to her appointment as Regional Managing Partner, Kyla was Head of Audit for the Midlands for two years, navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and driving revenue growth of 75%.
Since taking on the position of Regional Managing Partner in July 2022, BDO’s Midlands practice has experienced strong growth including nine new partners and revenue growth of over 40%, with a team of over 500 people now working across its Birmingham and Nottingham city centre offices.
Commenting on her appointment, Kyla said: “After a wonderful two years of leading BDO’s Midlands team I am delighted to be taking on this additional role, ensuring we continue to champion our regional offices at the most senior level within the firm. I have ambitious plans for BDO’s Midlands practice with further investment planned for later in the year.
“The growth of our Midlands practice is a reflection of BDO’s growth as a firm overall. Our core market of mid-sized, ambitious and entrepreneurial businesses has demonstrated strength and resilience during a challenging economic period.
“I look forward to working with Mark and the new Leadership Team at an exciting time for BDO as we continue to support businesses across the UK, building on our heritage and looking to our future.”
Mayor meets Prime Minister for devolution talks
The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has been to Downing Street with the country’s regional mayors to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to discuss more powers and funding for the East Midlands.
Mayor Claire attended a high-level roundtable for UK Mayors as the government announced it was setting up a council for regions and nations to support a drive to loosen Westminster’s “tight grip” over big cities and regions.
The Prime Minister said: “I’m a great believer in the idea that those with skin in the game – those that know their communities – make much better decisions.”
The government has said it wants to give more power to the regions, recognising the part regions like the East Midlands have to play in delivering economic growth – a central pledge by the new government.
Mayor Claire said: “It’s the beginning of a new era for our villages, towns and cities. After years of languishing at the bottom of every funding league table, the East Midlands will finally get the investment it deserves. I wholeheartedly welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to giving our communities more of a say on some of the most important issues.
“I think it’s significant that the roundtable took place so early in the government’s first week in charge. Both the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister understand that mayors are uniquely placed to make the best decisions for the places we serve and know that we can lead the drive for growth across the country.
“It was, of course, a thrill to be in Downing Street and make the case for our great region. There are many challenges ahead, but I’m confident we’ll have great support from the government to make our region the best place to live, to work and to learn.”
Northamptonshire residential park home maker snapped up
Hull family business J.R. Rix & Sons Ltd has acquired a Northamptonshire residential park home maker to build on its holiday home and lodge portfolio manufactured by Victory Leisure Homes.
The company has become sole shareholder in Prestige Communities Group Ltd – parent company of well-known residential brand Prestige – for an undisclosed sum.
The move sees Rix Group enter the residential park home sector for the first time, after growing Victory Leisure Homes into one of the UK’s top holiday home and lodge manufacturers. The Prestige portfolio also offers an extended range of premium holiday and leisure homes, growing the Group’s presence and market share.
James Doyle, Managing Director of J.R. Rix & Sons, said the acquisition will bring stability to Prestige Communities Group, which has undergone several changes in ownership over recent years.
Mr Doyle said: “We’re delighted to complete the purchase of Prestige. I feel we are well positioned to support and invest further in the company ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in the park home and leisure space.
“The acquisition extends our product range into the residential park home sector and will enable us to build on the successes achieved by Victory Leisure Homes in the holiday park sector.
“We feel there is a good cultural fit with the people at Prestige which will be fundamental to the business’s future success and we look forward to working with Mitchell Comer and his management team.”
Mitchell Comer, CEO of Northamptonshire-based Prestige, said: “Following the restructuring in February, we have been seeking and discussing a long-term investor/owner proposition that would give Prestige a foundation to build upon, securing the legacy, but equally enabling funding and support for continued growth and innovation.
“J.R. Rix & Sons demonstrated a long-term vision, both for their group of companies, as well as Prestige, and during discussions it was clear we shared common values and aspirations.”
Global lubricant supplier lets 154,452 sq ft unit in Kettering
Prologis UK, an owner, developer and investor of logistics property, has leased DC4 Prologis Park Kettering to Mannol, a global lubricant supplier. The 10-year lease will support Mannol’s expanding UK operations.
Located in the prime logistics ‘Golden Triangle’, the 154,452 sq ft unit will provide the space required for Mannol’s future growth ambitions, with transport links to the M1, M6 and M11, as well as connections to coastal ports and rail hubs, for national and international distribution. Mannol will join household brands including CEVA, Argos and Specsavers at the Park.
Jevgenij Lyzko, Chief Executive Officer at Mannol, said: “As we continue to grow, we were in need of a larger unit to cater for our expanding operations. We chose Prologis UK as our trusted partner to provide this. DC4 Kettering offers a large, modern facility and has the benefit of great transport links to our distribution network and an array of welfare amenities for our workforce.”
In line with Prologis UK’s sustainability credentials, DC4 underwent a full refurbishment, including both the main warehouse and the office block, bringing the unit to an EPC A rating. The all-electric unit is fitted with warehouse LED lighting, sprinklers and racking allowing for immediate occupation.
Tom Price, Leasing Director at Prologis UK, said: “DC4, and Prologis Park Kettering, was the perfect fit for Mannol’s expanding operations. Originally built in 2007, we upgraded DC4 to meet the same high-quality standards of our current generation buildings in order to match customer expectations. The refurbishment programme also allowed for additional future proofing, for example the option to add in additional EV charging points as needed.
“We look forward to welcoming Mannol and watching the business grow and take advantage of all that the location offers.”
ILPP and Cushman and Wakefield acted for Prologis UK. Louch Shacklock acted for Mannol.
BRUSH Group opens multi-million-pound transformer test cell facility in Loughborough
Energy engineering solutions provider BRUSH Group has opened a multi-million-pound world-class transformer test cell facility at its transformer manufacturing facility in Loughborough.
The facility, housed in a huge former workshop at the firm’s Falcon Works in the Leicestershire town, will put newly built power transformers through their paces before being shipped out to BRUSH customers.
Key customer representatives joined BRUSH employees for the official opening of the test cell which features a high-voltage acoustic test area with 12-metre-high doors. From this new testing facility, BRUSH has the capability to conduct a comprehensive range of tests on its transformers.
With dedicated storage for up to four of BRUSH’s biggest transformer units, the facility allows the company to significantly increase its production capacity to meet the UK’s fast-growing demand for power transformers as the country gears up for decarbonisation.
Nicolas Pitrat, CEO of BRUSH Group, said: “We’re seeing rapidly increasing demand for power transformers from all segments of our customer base in the UK, from power networks operators and renewable energy producers to public infrastructure providers and commercial developers.
“Opening of our new world-class test cell here in Loughborough allows us to keep pace with that demand and play our part in the domestic supply chain, enabling energy producers and consumers to connect to the grid and accelerate towards net zero.
“I’m really proud of what the team at BRUSH has achieved with this latest investment, and especially pleased with our team of new engineering apprentices who have come on board to support our growth including operating the new test cell.”
East Midlands business activity growth slowest for six months
The NatWest East Midlands Growth Tracker – a seasonally adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors – posted at 50.8 in June, down from 52.3 in May, to signal only a marginal expansion in output at East Midlands firms.
Moreover, the pace of growth was the slowest in six months. Companies often noted that greater output was linked to backlog depletion, with new business contracting for the first time in 2024 so far.
East Midlands businesses signalled a renewed fall in new business during June, thereby ending a five-month sequence of expansion. The decrease in new orders was solid overall, and the fastest since November 2023. Anecdotal evidence suggested that the drop related to weaker client demand, with growing hesitancy among customers to place orders.
June data indicated further positive expectations regarding the outlook for output over the coming 12 months at East Midlands firms. Companies stated that investment in new products and service lines, alongside hopes of a stronger sales environment buoyed business confidence. The degree of optimism was below both the long-run series and UK averages.
Dipesh Mistry, Chair of the NatWest Midlands and East of England Regional Board, said: “The East Midlands private sector continued to see growth midway through the year, as output rose further. That said, there was a loss of momentum as new business returned to contraction for the first time this year so far. Customer hesitancy is not expected to last, however, as businesses foresee greater activity levels over the coming year.
“Nonetheless, firms adjusted their workforce numbers downwards amid muted demand conditions and as spare capacity built, with backlogs of work falling at the sharpest pace in nine months.
“Meanwhile, inflationary pressures picked up in June. Higher raw material and wage bills spurred renewed momentum in cost and charge increases, with rates of inflation broadly in line with long-run averages. Although input prices rose at a sharper pace than the UK average, the pace of output charge inflation was more muted than at the UK level amid efforts to drive new sales across the region.”
Performance in relation to UK
The rate of expansion in output was weaker than both the long-run series and UK averages.
Meanwhile, new orders contracted at the joint-fastest pace of the 12 monitored UK regions (alongside the East of England).
East Midlands companies signalled a further substantial rise in operating expenses midway through 2024. The pace of inflation quickened from May. Higher input costs were commonly linked to greater raw material prices, including for metals.
The pace of increase in input prices was sharper than the UK average.
East Midlands businesses indicated a sharper uptick in selling prices in June, with the pace of inflation accelerating from May. The rate of increase was broadly in line with the long-run series average despite being softer than the UK trend. Companies often noted that the pass-through of greater costs to customers drove the latest uplift in output charges.
East Midlands private sector companies recorded a twelfth successive monthly decrease in workforce numbers midway through the year. The pace of job shedding accelerated to the sharpest since November 2023 and was solid overall. The region was one of only three to register a decline in employment (others were the South West and West Midlands) in contrast with the UK trend which signalled a fractional uptick in headcounts.
East Midlands private sector firms registered a further decrease in outstanding business in June, thereby extending the current sequence of decline seen since October 2022. The pace of contraction quickened to the fastest since last September and was sharp overall. Panellists noted that lower backlogs of work were due to reduced new orders and sufficient capacity.
The rate of depletion was stronger than the UK trend, with only Yorkshire & Humber, the East of England and Wales seeing steeper declines.
Lomond continues aggressive growth strategy with acquisition of East Midlands estate agent
Lomond has further expanded within the East Midlands region, with its 58th acquisition of Acquire Sales and Lettings, an agent with a presence in Derby, Burton and Chesterfield.
The East Midlands property market has performed strongly in recent years, with house prices climbing by 15.1% in the last three years, outperforming the UK benchmark in the process, while rental values have also climbed by 20%.
Such is the strength of the region’s property market that it has become a key area of focus for Lomond, as the firm continues to execute an aggressive growth strategy that has already seen four acquisitions complete within the East Midlands region.
Lomond previously acquired the Nottingham and Derby lettings book of Royston and Lund, swiftly followed by the significant rental portfolio of Centrick and Nottingham based agent Tassi Sales and Lettings.
Its latest acquisition of Acquire Sales and Lettings brings further investment to the East Midlands region and will add some 700 properties under management to Lomond’s John Shepherd brand.
The already established business will now operate under the John Shepherd brand, guided by Chief Exec Richard Crathorne.
However, Crathorne has been quick to pile praise on his senior team – Operations and Property Management Director Chris Blick, Lettings Director Jack Spellman and Sales Director Katie Ridley – all of whom have been pivotal in shaping the journey of the John Shepherd brand to date, and who remain an integral part of the brand’s future growth ambitions.
Chief Executive of John Shepherd, Richard Crathorne, said: “The East Midlands has been a key area of focus with regard to the expansion of the John Shepherd brand and my senior team have been key in realising the ambitions of the business to date.
“We’ve been on quite the journey and, with the string of significant acquisitions made of late, it’s fair to say that we’re only just getting started.
“We’re extremely excited to welcome the team at Acquire Sales and Lettings to the John Shepherd brand and the wider Lomond family and we look forward to further establishing the brand amongst buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants across the East Midlands.”
Lomond CEO, Ed Phillips, said: “Our latest acquisition of Acquire Properties sees us procure yet another top quality business within the East Midlands area and this will only help fuel the momentum that our John Shepherd brand is building across the region.”
