Plans to transform Leicester’s St Margaret’s junction to help encourage more walking and cycling, and improve bus journey times, have been given a major cash boost.
Leicester City Council has been awarded over £12 million from the third round of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which is designed for long-term, major capital projects which will help create jobs, encourage new investment and enable business growth.
The proposed highway development project would transform the sprawling junction linking St Margaret’s Way, Burleys Way, Vaughan Way and Church Gate. It will also see the permanent removal of the last remaining pedestrian underpasses on the city’s inner ring road. The large underpass complex was closed and fenced off earlier this year, following surveys that showed many people choose not to use them due to safety concerns and the fear of crime.
Proposed improvements include filling-in all three underpasses and major remodelling of the junction to help improve bus journey times, provide a more attractive route for walkers and cyclists and create more green space at this important gateway into the city centre. Ensuring the area feels safe for people to use after dark is another key aim of the project.
The introduction of new bus lanes on sections of St Margaret’s Way and Sanvey Gate will help improve journey times and service reliability by creating a direct link between the new St Margaret’s Bus Station and the A6, A50 and Anstey Lane bus corridors.
New cycle tracks would also be created on parts of St Margaret’s Way and Sanvey Gate to link to recently created and planned works expanding the citywide network of safer routes for cyclists.
Footpaths would be widened and improved, and new parallel crossings for pedestrians and cyclists will be introduced across the busy junction.
New landscaping would also help create a stronger link between the city centre and the medieval St Margaret’s Church building, which dates back to the 13th century.
The proposed improvements are intended to encourage more walking and cycling, with transport surveys showing that currently just three per cent of people using the junction do so on foot or bike.
The scheme will also help to promote new development and regeneration in the area, including providing the infrastructure needed to support investment in new city centre homes to help meet rising demand.
Cllr Adam Clarke, deputy city mayor for climate, culture and economy, said: “This is great news for the city and a fantastic opportunity to build on the improvements we have already seen from the award-winning redevelopment of St Margaret’s bus station – the first operationally net zero bus station building in the UK.
“The nearby St Margaret’s junction is an outdated throwback to the original 1970s ring road design. Its underpasses are unappealing to pedestrians and are a magnet for anti-social behaviour.
“As it stands the junction is a barrier for pedestrians and cyclists, and the current arrangement does no favours for buses leaving the new St Margaret’s Station.
“These proposals will address an important missing link in our transport network and help this sprawling junction into an attractive gateway into the city centre for all road users. It will also help reveal one of Leicester’s finest historic church buildings and reconnect it and the surrounding area to the city centre. Importantly, it will also make the route feel safer for people to use, especially at night.
“The award of over £12 million from Levelling Up Fund is a huge endorsement of the importance of this scheme.
“Providing more attractive and sustainable travel choices for people will help deliver a greener solution for the future growth of the city and support our work around the climate emergency and air quality improvements. We need to be radical and ambitious to meet these challenges.”
Alongside the award of £12,177,706 from the Levelling Up Fund, the city council will invest £3 million of capital funding towards the project.
Work is expected to get underway in 2025.
Solicitors have Enthusiasm to raise money for youth organisation
Lawyers across Derbyshire and East Staffordshire have agreed to work together to raise funds for an organisation that supports children and young people from deprived backgrounds.
Derby and District Law Society has named Enthusiasm Trust as its chosen charity for the year and hopes to raise cash to support its work helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds reach their full potential.
Oliver Maxwell, from Nelsons Solicitors on Lodge Lane, was appointed as president of the society in May and chose the charity after attending a Marketing Derby bondholder event at Enthusiasm’s headquarters on Cotton Lane.
The first fundraising activity was a Great British Bake Off-style competition which saw solicitors from across the society’s membership demonstrating their showstopping baking skills in a contest which raised more than £500.
The money will help Enthusiasm Trust continue to provide youth clubs, workshops, homework support and one-to-one mentoring programmes to give young people the opportunities to gain skills, knowledge and experience from a variety of activities.
Oliver said: “I attended an event at Enthusiasm’s headquarters a couple of years ago and was really moved by the sterling work being done there. I was particularly impressed by the creative projects they carried out during lockdown.
“So, when I was given the presidency, it was an easy decision to name Enthusiasm as my chosen charity because it really is a laudable cause.
“The Bake Off was the first event we have all taken part in and there are some talented bakers among the membership. Gemma Plummer from Eddowes Waldron, based at St Peter’s Churchyard, won the ‘best bake’ prize for their Halloween inspired cake, with the Family Law Group on Iron Gate raising the most money.”
The Derby and District Law Society was established in early 1886 and today represents lawyers across the whole of Derbyshire and East Staffordshire. It aims to support the legal profession locally by offering training, social events, and representing its members’ interest. Additionally, the society aims to assist the public in sourcing solicitors with a particular specialism.It already has strong links with Enthusiasm Trust as Claire Twells, from Smith Partnership, is vice chair of the board of trustees while Melanie Brigden is also a board member and a leading partner at Nelsons Solicitors.
April Allman, CEO of Enthusiasm, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the law society has named Enthusiasm Trust as its chosen charity, because any additional funding really goes a long way and helps us to make a genuine difference to the lives of the people we work with.
“Every year Enthusiasm needs to raise £300,000 to keep delivering its services and so we are really keen to encourage the business community to get on board and help us financially.
“We have a wonderful army of volunteers – 12 young volunteers and 10 at the family hub – and collectively they have worked well over 2,500 hours in the last 12 months.
“Employers can have such a positive influence and impact on young people – both financially and in so many other ways. No matter how big or small the support or donation our organisation will always ensure our young people will benefit from the generosity.”
Senior promotion and investment in younger generation at East Midlands landscape architecture practice
Influence Landscape Planning and Design has promoted Kathryn Dunk to principal landscape architect and expanded its design team.
Kathryn joined Newark-based Influence in 2015 as senior architect/landscape designer. Over the last eight years she has delivered award-winning landscape architecture schemes across the country, and become pivotal to the growth of the business.
Influence moved to the ownership of managing director Sara Boland in 2018. Under her leadership the company has significantly expanded its portfolio and team, particularly the next generation of landscape professionals, which Kathryn has also played a part in.
The company places great importance on sharing the landscape architecture profession with young people and enabling them to access the career with the practice at different stages of education.
Over the last 12 months the company has hired four design assistants and one administration assistant, of which three are graduates and one has joined straight from school after completing A Levels.
Influence’s most recent hire is design assistant Ella Cosgrove, who joined the practice having completed an Interior Architecture degree at Sheffield Hallam University.
Sara Boland, managing director, said: “It is wonderful to be acknowledging talent at a senior level as well as supporting the next generation coming into landscape.
“Kathryn’s 25 years of experience and technical and creative expertise are a real asset to the business. Her ability to apply practical solutions to challenges and her sensitive approach to design, plus strong client relationship skills, are why she has become principle. I’m really pleased for her, and I look forward to the next stage of her career.
“Exposing young people to our craft early on has always been important to me, and it feels right to be expanding our design team with lots of new talent and energy straight from education. Entry to landscape is so varied now and no one should be put off by where they are in their education, or career, or by what course they have taken, there is always a route.
“Seeing our junior team grow and the quality of work they deliver makes me very proud. One day they will be the ones designing the green spaces around us.”
Light Science Technologies makes fire protection acquisition
Light Science Technologies Holdings plc, the Derbyshire-based controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology and contract electronics manufacturing (CEM) group, has entered into an asset purchase agreement (APA) with Fire Barrier International Ltd (FBIL), to acquire its Injecta Fire Barrier trade and assets (IFB).
The APA is structured with the consideration being a deferred profit share agreement, with no initial or fixed outlays and the acquisition is expected to be near term cash generative for the group.
There are a number of synergies with the group’s existing operations – especially within the CEM division, which has long standing relationships within the fire protection market, providing technology and equipment for the fire safety sector for over 10 years.
IFB will also advantage from the additional governance required under the group’s plc umbrella, which is expected to be a strong selling point for potential clients. It will further benefit from the group’s knowledge and knowhow within maintenance and installation operations.
IFB will be integrated into the company’s newly incorporated subsidiary LSTH IFB Limited. IFB commenced trading in 2022 and currently owns two pumps, which are capable of generating significant annual revenues. It has completed two projects to date, generating c.£790,000 in sales. It currently has a quoted pipeline of potential sales opportunities worth c.£7 million and a forward order book worth c.£600,000. FBIL is currently wholly owned by LSTH’s CEO, Simon Deacon. LSTH will acquire IFB from FBIL on a contingent deferred consideration basis, with no initial or guaranteed deferred consideration payments. Total maximum consideration payable is £1.75 million over a five year payout time limit.Simon Deacon, Chief Executive Officer of LSTH, said: “The Government has called for urgent action to make buildings safe across the UK, and there are over 40,000 buildings in UK which need urgent attention. These include hotels, students’ accommodation, apartments, hospitals, government buildings.
“Fire safety is paramount – the Government has already allocated over £5 billion to replace dangerous cladding – a figure that is expected to increase significantly, with some contractors suggesting that a figure closer to £50 billion would be appropriate.
“We believe that with our knowledge in the industry and our installation teams across the Group, this new division, in a growing market with high demand, resolves a significant problem quickly and cost effectively – and more importantly keeps people safe.
“The cash-generative nature of the business will be valuable as we grow, and the synergies with existing operations make it a strong fit as part of our managed expansion.
“We are excited by the continued opportunities across the CEM and CEA divisions and, given wider government legislation and need for protective solutions, believe that IFB will be a strong addition that will be self-funding from day one.”
Referral programs that work: proven strategies for success
Referral marketing has emerged as a powerhouse in the business world, providing a cost-effective and authentic way to acquire new customers. We’ll conduct an exploration of why, among the myriad strategies available, referral programs stand out as a particularly effective tool for growth, dissecting their dynamics, key components, and the crucial role incentives play in their success.
The Power of Effective Referral Programs: A Game Changer
Referral programs are not just a marketing trend; they are a game-changer in the competitive business landscape. The trust and credibility that come with a referral from a satisfied customer can significantly influence potential buyers, and harnessing this power can lead to exponential growth, creating a ripple effect that outpace other outreach marketing efforts. Successful referral programs tap into the psychology of human behavior, leveraging the innate desire to share positive experiences with friends and family. Word-of-mouth marketing, amplified through a structured referral marketing program, has the potential to transform satisfied customers into enthusiastic brand advocates.Analysing the Dynamics of Successful Referral Campaigns
To understand the dynamics of a successful referral marketing campaign, it’s crucial to analyse the factors contributing to their effectiveness. A well-executed campaign goes beyond simply asking for referrals; it involves understanding customer motivations, creating a seamless user experience, and building a sense of community around your brand. Customer advocacy plays a central role in successful referral dynamics. Identifying and nurturing advocates within your existing customer base is critical. These advocates don’t just appreciate your product or service but are willing to actively promote it. By understanding the traits of these advocates, businesses can tailor their referral programs to resonate with this influential segment.Critical Components of a High-Performing Referral Program
Crafting a high-performing referral program requires careful consideration of its key components. The foundation lies in a seamless and user-friendly process that encourages customers to participate effortlessly. This includes a clear call-to-action, intuitive user interfaces, and optimised communication channels. Moreover, a successful program incorporates tracking mechanisms to monitor the progress of referrals. Utilising referral marketing software is imperative for efficient tracking, analysis, and management of the program. This software not only simplifies the process but also provides valuable insights into the campaign’s performance.Crafting Irresistible Incentives: The Heart of Referral Success
At the heart of any successful referral program lies the incentive structure. Crafting irresistible incentives is essential to motivate customers to actively participate in the program. These incentives can take various forms, including discounts, exclusive access to products or services, or monetary rewards. The key is to align the incentives with the values and preferences of the target audience. By offering rewards that resonate with customers, businesses can significantly increase the likelihood of successful referrals. Striking the right balance between enticing incentives and maintaining profitability is an art that defines the success of referral program marketing.Identifying and Cultivating Potential Advocates
Identifying potential advocates within a customer base is a strategic step in building a successful referral program. Customer advocacy goes beyond simple satisfaction, involving a deep emotional connection with the brand. Businesses can employ various techniques, such as customer surveys and feedback analysis to identify those most likely to become passionate advocates. Once identified, cultivating these advocates requires a personalised approach. Building relationships, acknowledging their loyalty, and involving them in exclusive brand experiences can turn satisfied customers into dedicated advocates. These cultivated advocates become the driving force behind a referral program’s success.Leveraging Technology for Optimal Referral Program Management
In the digital age, leveraging technology is not just an option but a necessity for optimal referral program management. Referral marketing ideas are pivotal in streamlining the process, automating tasks, and providing real-time insights. From tracking referrals to analysing performance metrics, technology ensures efficiency and effectiveness. Integrating referral marketing software into the overall referral marketing strategy creates a seamless experience for businesses and customers. Automating tasks allows companies to focus on design and relationship-building, while customers enjoy a frictionless referral process.From Customers to Advocates: A Step-By-Step Guide
Transitioning customers into advocates is a strategic process that involves a well-defined roadmap. A step-by-step guide ensures that businesses navigate this transformation smoothly, maximising the potential of their customer base. The journey begins with delivering exceptional products or services that naturally elicit satisfaction. Once satisfied, customers can be engaged through personalised communication, exclusive offers, and loyalty programs. As this relationship deepens, identifying and nurturing advocates becomes the focus, eventually leading to their active participation in the referral program.Measuring Referral Program Impact: KPIs and Metrics
To gauge the success of a referral program, businesses must employ key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics. These metrics provide insights into the program’s effectiveness, along with customer engagement and overall impact on business growth. Common KPIs include the number of referrals generated, conversion rates, and customer lifetime value. Tracking these metrics allows businesses to refine their strategies, optimise incentive structures and continuously improve the referral program for sustained success.Referral Program Success Stories: Lessons from the Trenches
Examining real-world success stories provides valuable insights into the diverse approaches businesses take to create effective referral programs. From small startups to industry giants, each success story offers unique lessons and inspiration for those looking to harness the power of customer advocacy. By looking at what works for competitors and industry leaders, you can see the adaptability of referral programs across different industries and business models. Whether through innovative incentive structures, creative referral in marketing or exceptional customer experiences, these success stories demonstrate no one-size-fits-all approach to referral program success and provide valuable ideas.Navigating the Digital Landscape: Best Practices for Online Referrals
In the digital era, online referral marketing tips have become a cornerstone of successful marketing strategies. Navigating the digital landscape requires businesses to adopt best practices that align with the preferences and behaviors of online consumers. Creating shareable content, optimising referral processes for mobile users and leveraging social media platforms are essential components of successful online referrals. The interconnected nature of the digital landscape allows businesses to amplify the impact of their referral programs through strategic online referral marketing efforts.Ethical Considerations in Referral Program Implementation
While referral programs offer tremendous benefits, ethical considerations must be at the forefront of their implementation. Transparency, honesty, and fairness are fundamental principles that should guide every aspect of a referral program. Businesses must communicate clearly with customers about the incentives and rewards associated with referrals. Additionally, ensuring that the program does not exploit customer trust or compromise the brand’s integrity is paramount. Ethical implementation not only builds trust with customers but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the referral program. In conclusion, referral programs, when executed with precision and care, are a potent tool for business growth. By understanding the psychology of customer advocacy, leveraging technology and incorporating ethical considerations, businesses can create referral programs that resonate with their audience and drive sustainable success. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the adaptability of referral programs remains a crucial asset in any marketer’s arsenal.Northamptonshire groundworks & civil engineering contractor files for administration
A Northamptonshire groundworks & civil engineering contractor has filed for administration.
NRI Civils has been operating for 11 years and has worked with a number of major housebuilders.
It was involved in groundworks at a troubled Cambridge housing estate where up to 83 new homes will have to be demolished due to problems with the designs of the foundations. It is not suggested that NRI Civils caused the issues.
The business’s estimated turnover is £11m.
PBC Business Recovery & Insolvency is handling the administration.
Sherwood area to receive £20m investment
The Government has announced that Sherwood will benefit from a £20 million investment as part of its Levelling Up Fund Round 3.
For years, the District Council has been developing regeneration projects for Ollerton and Clipstone. While it has been applying for funding to make these projects a reality, today is the day that marks the official start of this exciting journey for the Sherwood area.
Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, explains: “This announcement is long-overdue, but it is well deserved and needed, especially for Ollerton. Our regeneration team have been working hard at shaping ideas to where they currently are and without our ‘ready-to-deliver’ projects, the much-needed investment may not have been so forthcoming.
“This investment is great, but it really needs to be supported by yet further investment, in road infrastructure for example, and I hope that the Government will continue investing further in Ollerton and Clipstone.”
The District Council has two projects that it hopes can be funded by this investment. The first is the Ollerton Town Centre Hub which is a joint venture between Newark and Sherwood District Council, Ollerton and Boughton Town Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, and the owners of the existing Forest Centre in the town.
It will see a new public sector hub with services of the Town and District Council’s complemented by a brand-new state-of-the-art library, boutique cinema, and new commercial units. The second project could support a new sustainable industrial estate in Clipstone alongside some wider sports and education facilities.
Councillor Peacock continues: “The Town Centre Hub in Ollerton will be vital in transforming the area into a vibrant and exciting place. Residents will be able to access a range of services and leisure facilities in the heart of the town and it will also offer an opportunity for local businesses to grow.
“We will be continuing to work closely with the Town Council and owners of the Forest Centre to develop the plans and make this happen as soon as possible.
“Hopefully this is the start of bringing more investment into the area. It is only the beginning of our ambition for the Sherwood area to make sure our high streets survive and thrive, allowing residents and businesses to fulfil their potential, and provide more opportunities for leisure, jobs and education.”
The District Council is committed to getting as much investment into Newark and Sherwood as possible and has been successful in securing more than £70 million in grants that will help improve the area over the next few years. This includes £45 million in Towns Fund for Newark, £20 million for the Southern Link Road, more than £4 million for Shared and Rural Prosperity Fund, £750k for the Accelerator Fund and £350k for the Reopening High Street Safely Fund.
Thanks to this investment, and more yet to come, the district can look towards a future where opportunities for education, jobs, business and town centres can grow and attract wider audiences.
Councillor Peacock concludes: “We will not stop in getting as much funding as possible invested across our district. We will do all we can to support our residents, tenants and businesses and that is my promise and commitment to you all.”
Further support for Ashfield businesses to innovate and grow
Businesses in Ashfield are set to benefit from a new scheme commissioned by Ashfield District Council.
“Ashfield Accelerator” will help local businesses to improve productivity through innovation and digital technology, reduce energy costs and access new overseas markets. Additional help is available to develop their workforces and get access to finance.
Ashfield Accelerator will support businesses to:
- Reduce energy bills and move to Net Zero with 1-1 specialist advice to develop comprehensive energy audits and decarbonisation plans.
- Adopt digital technologies and take advantage of national programmes such as Innovate UK EDGE and Made Smarter through help from Innovation and Technology Specialists.
- Take advantage of overseas trading opportunities by producing an export or import strategy, undertaking research into overseas markets and actively preparing a product or service for export or import.
- Develop their workforce to increase employee capabilities, improving local productivity and business support will be focused on the district’s four key sectors: Manufacturing, Construction, Wholesale & Retail, and Transport & Storage (Logistics).
- Access finance including specialised consultancy through growth voucher support and grants to enable them to find suitable solutions that create sustainable growth.
- Grow their networks for collaboration with other local businesses.
Bulwell Levelling Up funding welcomed for Nottingham but disappointment as Broad Marsh misses out again
Nottingham City Council’s Leader has welcomed the Government’s announcement that the authority’s bid to the Levelling Up Fund for a £20m project to improve Bulwell town centre has been given the green light but has expressed his disappointment that Broad Marsh has missed out yet again.
Cllr David Mellen said: “Nottingham had bid for a total of £57 million for Bulwell, Broad Marsh and the Island Quarter from round two of the Levelling Fund last year but didn’t receive a penny so we’re pleased that it’s finally been announced today that Bulwell will receive funding. Bulwell town centre is an important part of the city which serves several communities, and we welcome this much needed investment.
“However, it’s a big disappointment that the site of the former Broad Marsh shopping centre has once again been left out. It’s one of the most significant city centre development sites anywhere in the UK which would bring major benefits to local people including up to 1,000 new homes and more than 6,000 jobs.
“Much progress has already been on made on transforming the area with the new Central Library opening next week alongside the new car park and bus station, the Nottingham College city hub, improvements to the surrounding public spaces and work on the Green Heart city centre park due to start soon.
“Funding from Levelling Up Fund would have helped develop the wider Master Plan for the area. This work will continue including how best to secure support from the public and private sector.
“Our original bid for Bulwell involved improvements to key amenities and links to transport services including enhancing green space and public realm alongside the River Leen; improvements to the market place and better connectivity between Bulwell Bogs, the tram stop, bus station, market place and high streets.
“We need to review the detail of the Government’s announcement and re-test that the original plans are still deliverable against the new timeline and factor in the impact of inflation since the initial bid was submitted nearly a year and a half ago.”
Transformation of former DWP building complete
Ashfield District Council have completed the renovation of the former DWP building on High Pavement, Sutton.
The finished building, now named High Pavement House, was transformed by the Council, and is the second project completed as part of their £6.27 million Future High Streets Fund. The former DWP building was previously renovated in 2019 by a private investor but following the pandemic, the building was left empty until 2022 when work started.
The top floor of High Pavement House now houses 14 modern office units which are ready to be let to start ups, established businesses, and people looking for a professional workspace.
To help businesses flourish at High Pavement House, Ashfield District Council are offering a rent relief grant to offset the first three months rent. The grants, funded by the Council’s £3.2 million UK Shared Prosperity Fund, range from £250 – £960, depending on the size of the unit.
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “We are extremely pleased to have completed another Future High Streets Funded project that will make a real difference to Sutton, and the wider District.
“We are investing time and money into supporting local businesses because we want them to succeed in Ashfield. High Pavement House is perfectly suited to cater to a range of business needs.”
High Pavement House also benefits from 24/7 access for members and the office units, as well as a shared social space with kitchen facilities on the ground floor.
High Pavement House will also be home to Ashfield’s Makerspace, which is set to open in spring 2024. The Makerspace is a unique workshop space for like-minded people to get together and share tools, equipment, and skills.
The Makerspace will be kitted out with top end machinery and equipment for woodworking, metalworking, CNC, laser, 3D printing, screen printing, ceramics, textiles, digital embroidery, a podcast studio, electronics, and a variety of other crafts.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Regeneration, Growth and Local Planning, said: “Everyone knows how excited I am to see the Makerspace for Ashfield, it’s such an interesting concept, one that will benefit so many people. It will allow people to access tools, equipment and skills that they wouldn’t have at home.
“Whether you have a DIY project that you need specialist equipment to complete, you’re a complete beginner and want to learn a new skill, or if you’re a making pro, everyone will be welcome.
“The completion of the building works marks the next stage of the project. We can now start to bring in the machines and equipment and begin to create the space. We will be able to open the doors for an open evening in the Makerspace in the new year, keep your eye on the Makerspace Facebook page for the date.”
