Developer reveals Buxton community’s response to shopping centre redevelopment plans

Tess Egginton
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Developer reveals Buxton community’s response to shopping centre redevelopment plans
Developer Capital&Centric has revealed the Buxton community’s initial response to its plans for The Springs Shopping Centre. Almost 700 people provided their thoughts on the plans, with more than 400 showing up in person. The feedback shows strong support for better connections from the train station into the heart of town, especially for those on foot or bike. People also called for the design to reflect Buxton’s historic charm, with appetite for traditional materials, local stone and craftsmanship blending old with new. Locals further said they want the revamped town centre to prioritise indie shops, restaurants and bars. There was demand too for new spaces for live music, exhibitions, and family-friendly fun. As part of the next stage, Capital&Centric has revealed what the revitalised riverside space could look like, turning the currently hidden away River Wye into a feature for Buxton’s future public realm. John Moffat, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “We’ve always said this would be shaped by the people who live and work in Buxton and this first conversation proves how much passion there is for the town’s future. “We’ve taken the feedback seriously, from calls for design that honours the past to a town centre that’s buzzing with independent shops and culture. The River Wye has been hidden for too long and we’re really excited to be opening it up and making it part of a proper public space the whole town can enjoy.”

Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, deputy leader and executive councillor for regeneration, tourism and leisure at High Peak Borough Council, added: “Thanks to everyone who has taken part in the conversations about the future of Buxton town centre. Your views matter and, I hope you can see, are being reflected in the plans worked up by our development partner Capital & Centric.

“We’re a town famous for our water and opening up the River Wye helps to celebrate one of Buxton’s defining characteristics. It’s great to see the introduction of new public areas for people to appreciate and to spend time in which is one of the things you’ve told us you want to see more of.”

More detailed plans will follow, with another opportunity for locals to share feedback ahead of planning submission.

Councils lead the way in fostering-friendly workplace policies

April Lara
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Councils lead the way in fostering-friendly workplace policies

Four councils in the East Midlands—Derby City, Derbyshire County, Nottingham City, and Nottinghamshire County—have achieved Fostering Friendly status, recognising their efforts to support employees who are foster carers. This initiative, developed by The Fostering Network, encourages businesses to help foster carers balance their professional responsibilities with their caregiving roles.

The scheme promotes practical workplace adjustments such as paid time off for training and appointments, as well as flexible working hours. These actions are designed to make fostering more accessible for working individuals, helping foster carers manage their dual roles without compromising their careers.

The four councils are also part of a regional initiative, Foster for East Midlands, aimed at recruiting more foster carers and enhancing the quality of care across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The collaboration strives to keep children closer to their families, schools, and communities, offering them more stability and better long-term outcomes.

Businesses in the region are being urged to consider how they can support fostering, including offering flexible hours or raising awareness of fostering opportunities within their organisations. Larger-scale initiatives, such as apprenticeships or work experience placements for young people in care, can have a lasting impact on the community.

Organisations that join the Fostering Friendly scheme are provided with resources and guidance to develop supportive workplace policies and communicate their commitment publicly. This initiative not only helps foster carers but also enables businesses to strengthen their ties to the community while supporting the stability and well-being of children in care.

Superdrug to expand its presence at Highcross Leicester

April Lara
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Superdrug to expand its presence at Highcross Leicester

Superdrug is set to open a new 9,000 sqft store at Highcross Leicester in Autumn 2025, marking a major step in its expansion within the health and beauty sector. The store will occupy two units previously home to Paperchase and Designer Furniture Store, further strengthening the shopping centre’s beauty and wellness offering.

This new location follows recent openings by global brands like Rituals and Space NK, continuing Highcross’s strategy of attracting high-profile beauty and wellbeing retailers. The move reflects Superdrug’s ongoing commitment to physical retail, with the brand already established as the UK’s second-largest health and beauty retailer.

The store will feature a comprehensive range of skincare, fragrance, and cosmetics, including popular brands like L’Oréal, Revolution, e.l.f, and TIRTIR. It will also house a nurse-led aesthetic clinic offering treatments such as anti-wrinkle procedures and fillers. In addition, a Beauty Studio will provide services like eyebrow threading, eyelash extensions, and nail care.

Superdrug’s investment in this location is part of its broader strategy to enhance its in-store customer experience while expanding its regional presence. The new store will contribute to Highcross Leicester’s growing appeal as a hub for both affordable and premium beauty products, with a focus on a diverse customer base.

Midlands startups quadruple venture capital investment

Tess Egginton
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Midlands startups quadruple venture capital investment
Venture capital (VC) investment into the Midlands’ start-up and scaling businesses increased in the second quarter of 2025, bucking the national trend, according to the latest KPMG Private Enterprise Venture Pulse report. The Midlands’ start-ups raised £108.5m in the second quarter of 2025, more than four times the £26m raised in the first three months of the year. 28 investments were concluded in the region – 11 in the East Midlands and 17 in the West Midlands – compared to 12 in the previous quarter, highlighting increased appetite among VC investors looking to support the region’s burgeoning start-up community. The largest raise included a £14.9m investment into Nottingham-based scheduling platform developer Cronofy – enabling them to pursue further growth both at home and overseas in the US. Cronofy was one of six Midlands companies in the business and productivity software sector securing VC funding this quarter – reflecting the national trend – as start-ups focused on products and services that streamline business operations continue to gain popularity among funders. Andy Bostock, Birmingham office senior partner at KPMG UK, said: “Venture capital investment in the Midlands’ most promising early-stage businesses has surged this quarter, rebounding from a Q1 lull. While national investment remains subdued, the Midlands has bucked the trend, demonstrating real resilience. “The most active areas were innovation-led sectors such as business and productivity software, many of which are leveraging AI as a key development tool. This reflects the adaptability of Midlands businesses in embracing high-growth technologies and leading the charge in innovation. “The Midlands is fast becoming a hub for high-growth ventures. With continued public and private backing and the right advisory support, these investments have the potential to drive long-term growth, research and commercialisation.”

Morrison Design

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Morrison Design
Morrison Design: Creating Purposeful Architecture Since 1948 Headquartered in Derby, Morrison Design is a team of highly skilled, forward-thinking architects with a proven track record of delivering intelligent, impactful design. Since 1948, the RIBA Chartered practice has remained at the forefront of the industry – continually evolving while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality, and innovation. They specialise in Hotels & Hospitality, Science & Technology, Public Sector (including Healthcare and Education) and Masterplanning, working with clients as Architects, Project Managers and Principal Designers. They work across the UK and Ireland with clients in London, Dublin and locally in and around Derby. Morrison Design’s portfolio includes Hilton, Holiday Inn, the NHS, Mercure, Rolls-Royce, Crowne Plaza, Lubrizol, Crimson Hotels, Mornington Hotels, Point A Hotels, Derby College, University of Derby, Morley Hayes, and Horizon Healthcare. Recent Highlights 2025 has seen the successful completion of several key developments, including:
  • Point A Liberties, a new 95-bedroom hotel in central Dublin
  • University of Derby’s new Super Lab – a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary learning environment for Biomedical Science students
  • The Sustainable Travel Hub at the University of Derby’s Kedleston Road campus
Their work continues to shape the East Midlands and beyond – from the Lubrizol Conference Centre in Hazelwood to the regeneration of Rolls-Royce facilities, upgrades to Morley Hayes and the delivery of high-performance academic environments such as the Super Lab, OMICS Lab and Performance Analysis Suite at the University of Derby. A Practice Built on Purpose Morrison Design believe architecture is about more than buildings – it’s about impact. They’re driven by a commitment to people, place and planet, with a business culture that puts integrity, wellbeing and sustainability at the centre of everything they do. Sustainability The practice recognise the significant role architecture plays in mitigating environmental impact. They believe sustainability starts at home and have taken action to reduce their environmental impact in their studio. This includes purchasing locally sourced milk, recycled paper and improving recycling facilities. Mental Health & Wellbeing Morrison Design are committed to fostering a healthy, supportive workplace. With certified Mental Health First Aiders and team-wide training in Mental Health Awareness and Stress Management, they create a culture of openness and care. Regular initiatives such as wellbeing walks, team socials and tea at three sessions encourage connection and wellbeing. Learning & Development The team are proud to cultivate talent from within. All three directors began their careers at Morrison Design as apprentices or junior team members, progressing through the business to lead a management buyout in 2019. They provide ongoing professional development, mentorship and industry placements to support career progression and broaden access to architectural practice. Diversity & Inclusion As signatories of the RIBA Inclusion Charter, the team are committed to maintaining an inclusive and equitable workplace. Guided by input from their Diversity & Inclusion group, they organise regular events around International Women’s Day, Pride, Black History Month and International Day for Persons with Disabilities – with a focus on both celebration and education. Their progressive internal policies – including those supporting menopause, menstruation, fertility journeys and flexible working – are designed to create a supportive environment for all. Giving Back The Morrison Deisgn team regularly participates in volunteering, fundraising and mentoring initiatives. Each year, they nominate a charity close to the hearts of their team. In 2025, they’re proudly supporting Ben’s Den, a local charity providing holidays and respite for children with cancer. 
Copyright 2019 Matthew Shaw.
Recognition In 2025, Morrison Design has been recognised as a finalist in multiple categories at leading industry awards, including:
  • Architect of the Year Awards – Retail & Leisure Architect of the Year
  • Constructing Excellence East Midlands – Building Project of the Year, Infrastructure Project of the Year and People & Culture Award (Highly Commended)
  • London Construction Awards – Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year
  • National Building and Construction Awards – Architectural practice of the year and Project of the Year – up to £10 million
To learn more about Morrison Design, please visit https://www.morrisondesign.co.uk/

Henton and Chattell acquires Newark site from Farmstar

Tess Egginton
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Henton and Chattell acquires Newark site from Farmstar
Henton and Chattell is taking over the Newark branch of Farmstar Ltd. The acquisition marks the next stage in Henton and Chattell’s growth strategy and strengthens its presence in the agricultural, groundcare, and garden machinery sectors across the East Midlands. The deal will see the Newark depot fully integrated into Henton and Chattell’s operations from this week. All existing staff will be retained. Peter Chaloner, managing director of Henton and Chattell, said: “We are incredibly pleased to officially welcome the Newark team and customers into the Henton and Chattell family. “This is a significant milestone for our business, and the Newark site provides us with a strong platform to further expand our reach and deliver an even broader range of products and services in the region. “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Sam Davies, Managing Director of Farmstar Ltd, whose constructive and collaborative approach has helped ensure a smooth and positive transition for all parties involved.”

Work begins on £23m affordable housing development in Bulwell

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Work begins on £23m affordable housing development in Bulwell
Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) has broken ground on two long-vacant brownfield sites in North Nottingham, paving the way for the construction of 102 affordable homes in Bulwell. The £23m development will see the transformation of two adjacent five-acre sites, including the former Henry Mellish School on Kersall Drive and the disused Piccadilly playing field. Delivered in partnership with Nottingham City Council, the schemes will bring forward a mix of two- and three-bedroom houses. Of these, 34 will be available for shared ownership. A further 68 homes will be made available for social rent through the City Council’s housing register. All homes will meet a minimum EPC rating of A, offering residents lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Fran Cropper, new business and development manager, said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Nottingham City Council again on this important scheme with social value. We’re proud to bring this new housing scheme to Nottingham, addressing local housing needs while paving the way for a sustainable future.” Cllr Jay Hayes, executive member for housing and planning at Nottingham City Council, said: “This development marks a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable homes for local people. “We’re proud to see NCHA delivering housing that not only meets an urgent need but that will also help build strong and inclusive communities. Everyone deserves a safe, secure place to call home, and I look forward to seeing the Henry Mellish and Piccadilly developments come to life.” Known as Maple Fields and The Crescent, the developments will deliver 45 and 57 homes respectively. The sites have stood empty for over 15 years and benefit from full residential planning consent, previously secured by Godwin Developments. Owl Partnerships are the lead contractor on both sites. Gareth Wilkes MCIOB, construction director at Owl Partnerships, said: “Breaking ground on these sites is a proud moment for the team. It’s the result of strong collaboration and a shared vision to deliver homes that truly serve the Nottingham community. We’re focused on delivering quality and sustainability, and creating places people are proud to live.”

Nottinghamshire Healthcare receives £2.6m for heating decarbonisation project

April Lara
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Nottinghamshire Healthcare receives £2.6m for heating decarbonisation project

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has secured £2.6 million in funding to overhaul the heating system at The Wells Road Centre in Nottingham. The project is part of the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, designed to help public sector organisations meet carbon reduction targets.

The funding will enable the Trust to replace the gas boilers currently in use at The Wells Road Centre with a high-temperature water source heat pump. This system uses electricity to extract heat from a nearby water source to provide both heating and hot water, replacing the centre’s reliance on gas. Additional energy efficiency upgrades will include the installation of internal LED lighting, improvements to the Building Management System, and enhanced insulation.

This move will significantly cut carbon emissions, aligning with the Trust’s Green Plan and its goal to achieve Net Zero. The project is expected to have positive environmental, operational, and community impacts, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare environment. The work is scheduled to start in 2025/26 and is expected to be completed by March 2028, with minimal disruption to services.

Leicester City and King Power deepen ties with University of Leicester through new scholarships and initiatives

April Lara
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Leicester City and King Power deepen ties with University of Leicester through new scholarships and initiatives

Leicester City Football Club and King Power have reinforced their partnership with the University of Leicester through a fresh agreement to enhance collaborative efforts in Thailand. The expanded cooperation focuses on child health, education, and professional development, aiming to drive impactful change in both Leicester and Thailand.

A major element of the partnership is the extension of the Leicester City Football Club Professorship in Child Health, which has been a key resource since its establishment in 2018. The role will now support projects related to gestational diabetes and environmental health in Thailand, alongside ongoing research into the health of pre-term babies.

The agreement also includes the launch of two new scholarships: one for disadvantaged students in Leicester and another for Thai students to study at the University of Leicester. These scholarships will provide much-needed financial support to help young people overcome barriers to higher education. Additionally, the University will offer professional development programmes to King Power executives, strengthening the ties between the two organisations.

This partnership underscores a shared commitment to education, health improvement, and the creation of lasting opportunities for individuals in both regions.

HyMarnham Power hits key milestone in low-carbon hydrogen production project

April Lara
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HyMarnham Power hits key milestone in low-carbon hydrogen production project

The HyMarnham Power project, a collaboration between GeoPura and JG Pears, has reached a significant infrastructure milestone in its low-carbon hydrogen production initiative. Located in the East Midlands, this project has completed essential utility works, with electrolyser commissioning now underway.

Scheduled to begin full operations in Autumn 2025, HyMarnham Power is among the first projects under the Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 (HAR1) to be realised. The £50 million project is expected to drive the development of green hydrogen, with a capacity of 15MWe from electrolysers. Local energy sources, including a biomass CHP plant, will support its operations, meeting the low-carbon hydrogen standard and reinforcing the region’s push for sustainable energy solutions.

The project has a strategic location on the site of the former High Marnham coal power station, which is now a key renewable energy hub. This site benefits from an active National Grid substation, which will support future renewable energy and hydrogen projects.

HyMarnham Power is part of GeoPura’s plan to expand its hydrogen-powered generator fleet, providing zero-emission power across various industries, including construction, events, and broadcasting. The facility is set to support Midlands-based companies aiming to lower their carbon emissions.

The government, through its commitment to HAR1, is backing projects like HyMarnham Power as part of its energy security and economic growth plan. As the UK continues to invest in clean hydrogen technologies, this milestone underlines the growing role of hydrogen in decarbonising sectors across the country.

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