Cinema purchase adds pace to town revamp
A quest to rid an Erewash town of a major eyesore has taken a leap forward – with an announcement by the borough council that it has bought Long Eaton’s derelict Galaxy cinema.
The news – which follows painstaking negotiations – avoids a long drawn-out compulsory purchase as the authority drives forward levelling-up investment of £25million in the town.
The council revealed it has also acquired the former Stage One nightclub – clearing the way for a wholesale regeneration of what is known as Galaxy Row.
Both buildings are poised to be bulldozed as part of Long Eaton’s “Town Deal” – which is cash that Erewash Borough Council helped secure from the government.
The demolitions will see smart new homes and commercial units built on the prominent Derby Road site. The plan is for three business premises plus 16 flats and four townhouses. There will be 28 parking spaces, which will be accessed from Oxford Street at the rear of the development.
The council is currently actively seeking a development partner for the scheme. The decrepit cinema has blighted Long Eaton since closing more than a decade ago. Planners said: “No proposals for re-use have come forward in ten years. It does not lend itself to a conversion to an alternative use.
“Given the apparent lack of developer interest and limitations of the former cinema for its reuse and the poor current appearance of the building, the loss of the building is considered acceptable.”
A £10million refurbishment of the High Street is looming. Richard Ledger, who is chairman of the Long Eaton Town Deal Board, welcomed the purchase of the cinema and nightclub. The local businessman, who studied physics with Stephen Hawking at Cambridge, said: “Long Eaton will be reinvigorated under the Town Deal – becoming an increasingly vibrant place to live and work.
“I would like to thank not only the council but also the people of Long Eaton who along with local businesses have been backing the campaign to unleash the town’s potential.”
Erewash councillor Curtis Howard, who is Lead Member for Town Centres, Regeneration and Planning, said of the authority’s acquisitions: “This is a vital step toward finally getting spades in the ground on one of our most important levelling-up projects. Once completed, the new Galaxy Row development will provide new and modern commercial space for local businesses, and much needed, high-quality new homes.
“With this and proposals for the £10million High Street upgrade now well underway, we are ambitious for the future of Long Eaton town centre. This proves it.”
PDS Ltd to take on Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in support of YMCA Derbyshire’s new housing development
PDS Ltd, a technology solutions provider, is participating in the Three Peaks Challenge on Sunday 23rd June, as part of its ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility.
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is an intense and rewarding endeavour that involves climbing Pen-y-Ghent (694 metres), Whernside (736 metres) and Ingleborough (723 metres) respectively. These hills form a part of the Pennine range, and the walk will be completed in under 12 hours.
The PDS team embark on this rigorous journey to raise funds for YMCA Derbyshire’s Foundry Point, a vital initiative that provides affordable housing for young people entering work or on low wages.
These flats will need to be furnished with white goods, Wi-Fi, furniture, flooring and blinds. The funds raised during this event will go towards buying these essentials.
Nathan Lawson, Managing Director at PDS Ltd, said: “We are excited to take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and support a cause as impactful as the YMCA Derbyshire’s Foundry Point scheme. Our fundraising target is £2,500 and PDS Ltd will match this.
“Our team is motivated to not only meet the physical demands of the challenge but also to raise significant funds to help kit out the new flats at Foundry Point. We are passionate about giving young people the best start in life.”
The company has set up a fundraising page to collect donations for the challenge and would be extremely grateful for any support of this important cause by donating and cheering on the team as they undertake this formidable challenge.
For more information about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and how you can support PDS Ltd’s fundraising efforts for YMCA Derbyshire, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/pds-1708511950094.
Blueprint Interiors achieves prestigious Steelcase Platinum Partner status for second consecutive year
Blueprint Interiors, a Midlands-based workplace consultancy and commercial office fit-out specialist, has been awarded Steelcase Platinum Partner status for the second year running.
This achievement places Blueprint Interiors among an elite group of just four Platinum Partners recognised in the UK for 2024.
“We are proud to receive this recognition from Steelcase for the second year,” says Gemma Ryder, Head of Furniture at Blueprint Interiors.
“Steelcase is a world-renowned leader in furniture, technology products, and architectural services designed to empower people. Their ethos of designing products to help people do their best work in the many places where work happens directly aligns with our own, which is why our partnership is so successful.”
On awarding the trophy, Kris Newman, Senior Business Manager at Steelcase, said: “Our Platinum Partner programme recognises our Dealer Partners for not only for their commercial success, but also their alignment with our insight-driven approach to the office furniture industry.
“Blueprint Interiors exemplifies the qualities of a distinguished Steelcase Platinum Partner and working with the team has been an absolute joy. Their commitment to exceptional customer service and dedication to creating inspiring workspaces for their clients has been just one of many of the contributing factors to their continued success.”
Blueprint Interiors achieved this status by exceeding demanding criteria, including surpassing sales targets, demonstrating exceptional financial stability, and seamlessly integrating Steelcase co-branding requirements into their marketing and PR initiatives.
“We are incredibly grateful to our valued clients for their continued partnership, which has been instrumental in achieving this prestigious recognition,” adds Ryder. “We also extend our appreciation to Steelcase for supporting our dedication to delivering best-in-class experiences for all our clients.”
The team is looking forward to continuing its successful partnership with Steelcase and using this recognition to deliver even more innovative and people-centric workspace design solutions in the future.
Work begins on transformation of derelict Sutton site
Work has begun on the transformation of the derelict Fox Street, Sutton, into an event and market space.
Ashfield District Council plan to create a flexible outdoor space that links pedestrians from ASDA to the town centre, and can accommodate markets and events. The site is located behind Lloyds bank and is currently a disused wasteland. The transformative works will see a 41-space car park created with new lighting, CCTV and native trees and hedging planted to enhance biodiversity.
The river Idle, which runs through the back of the site, will be cleaned, and restored, providing a natural focal point. The works to Fox Street are being funded by Ashfield District Council’s £6.27 million Future High Streets Fund.
Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “We can’t wait to see this project begin. The Fox Street site has been an eyesore for a long time and our renovation works will breathe life into it, creating a space that can be used for events and markets – capitalising on the natural footfall in this part of Sutton.
“Ashfield District Council’s plans for the entire District are revolutionary and will create a lasting impact on Ashfield; a great place to live, visit, work, and play.”
The next stage of the regeneration of Sutton town centre will start shortly after Fox Street, with ground being broken on Portland Square in June. The Council’s ambitious plans for Portland Square will create a modern, attractive, and useable town centre, funded as part of their £62.6 million Towns Deal.
The new-look Portland Square will feature two raised lawns with inbuilt seating, ambient lighting, planting and semi-mature trees to bring greenery back into the urban setting. Alongside the planters will be CCTV cameras, streetlighting, a new level flooring and more room outside businesses for outdoor seating.
Both sites are expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Lindum Group Managing Director Kevin Damarell said: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the council through this scheme at Sutton in Ashfield.
“We’ve been working with the authority since mid-2023 to help find the most cost-effective way to deliver the works, which will make a huge difference to the town centre, and ultimately provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.”
Lindum will be calling on the expertise and skills of local businesses to deliver this project, including Townscape Products, based in Fulwood Road South, which is one the UK’s premier street furniture manufacturing companies.
Townscape Products Head of Sales, Jess Fergusson, said: “Townscape are very pleased to be working with Lindum Group and Ashfield Council to help realise this Town Centre improvement scheme.
“The raised platers and seating will provide a vibrant focal point for the local community enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the square and adding a much-needed green space for all to enjoy.’’
Scheme to help Charnwood businesses take next step
A scheme has been launched to support Charnwood businesses which are looking to reach new heights.
Charnwood’s Scale-Up programme is searching for companies which may benefit from business support to help them grow and expand.
It is being supported by the borough council using the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is being delivered by specialist expert advisors, Exemplas.
Each business which takes part will be thoroughly assessed on its ambition, capacity and potential for growth, and will work one-to-one with an expert advisor to draw up a bespoke growth action plan.
Cllr Jenni Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for economy development, regeneration and town centres, said: “This scheme will help businesses which have ambitions to be bigger, better and more prosperous.
“The Scale-Up programme will help local companies take that next big step into growth. By supporting businesses like this, the Council is helping to create jobs and opportunities for people in the future and continue to make Charnwood a great place to do business and invest.”
Mark Taft, the programme’s dedicated Scale-Up Advisor, said: “I take great pride in working with ambitious SMEs and am excited about working closely with Charnwood’s business community to offer support and advice they can use to scale up.”
Companies can apply to be part of the Scale-Up programme via the Leicestershire Business Advice Service.
As there are limited places available on the programme, each business will be evaluated by a panel for suitability. If successful, the Scale-Up Advisor will undertake a comprehensive diagnostic with the business to establish their priorities, compose an action plan and agree a business improvement project.
This could include a grant contribution capped at a maximum of £1,000 to use to fund an expert to help remove the company’s barrier, accelerate business growth, and scale up their business.
Top tips for ensuring workplace safety compliance in 2024
Ensuring workplace safety compliance is crucial for any business. In 2024, staying up-to-date with safety regulations can protect employees and avoid legal issues. Here are practical tips to help maintain a safe and compliant workplace.
Regular safety training
Regular safety training is essential to keep all employees aware of current safety protocols. Training sessions should cover potential hazards, emergency procedures, and the proper use of safety equipment. Employees must understand how to report unsafe conditions and the importance of following safety guidelines.
Providing refresher courses is equally important. These sessions help reinforce safety practices and update employees on new regulations. Incorporating practical demonstrations can enhance understanding and retention of safety procedures.
Conduct routine inspections
Routine inspections are vital to identify and rectify potential hazards. Inspections should be thorough, covering all areas of the workplace. This includes checking equipment, ensuring exits are clear, and verifying that safety signs are visible and up-to-date.
Employers should document findings and take immediate action to address any issues. Regular inspections can prevent accidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations. It’s advisable to have a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked during inspections.
Maintain equipment and infrastructure
Maintaining equipment and infrastructure is a key aspect of workplace safety. Regular maintenance checks can prevent equipment failure and reduce the risk of accidents. This includes inspecting machinery, electrical systems, and other critical infrastructure components.
For electrical safety, it’s important to know how long an EICR lasts. You can contact experts such as Hexo Electrical Testing to see how long an EICR lasts. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) typically lasts for five years for commercial properties. Regularly updating this report ensures compliance with safety standards.
Implement clear safety policies
Clear safety policies provide a framework for a safe working environment. These policies should outline procedures for handling hazardous materials, emergency response plans, and guidelines for safe working practices. Policies must be accessible to all employees and included in training sessions.
Regularly reviewing and updating these policies is crucial to adapt to new safety regulations and workplace changes. Employees should be encouraged to provide feedback on safety policies, which can help identify gaps and areas for improvement.
Foster a safety culture
Creating a safety culture in the workplace encourages employees to prioritise safety in all their activities. This culture starts with leadership. When management demonstrates a commitment to safety, employees are more likely to follow suit. Regularly communicating the importance of safety and recognising safe practices can reinforce this culture.
Encouraging open communication about safety concerns is also vital. Employees should feel comfortable reporting hazards or suggesting improvements without fear of reprisal. This proactive approach can help identify and mitigate risks before they lead to accidents.
Use technology for safety management
Leveraging technology can enhance workplace safety management. Safety management software can streamline the process of tracking incidents, conducting inspections, and maintaining records. These tools can provide real-time data and analytics to identify trends and areas needing attention.
Additionally, wearable technology, such as smart helmets and vests, can monitor workers’ health and safety in real-time. These devices can detect hazardous conditions, such as high levels of toxic gases, and alert both the worker and management immediately. Implementing such technologies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall safety compliance.
Regularly review safety procedures
Regular reviews of safety procedures ensure they remain effective and compliant with current regulations. This involves assessing the efficacy of existing safety measures and making necessary adjustments. These reviews should consider any changes in the workplace, such as new equipment or processes, that might introduce new risks.
Involving employees in these reviews can provide valuable insights. Workers on the front lines often have firsthand knowledge of potential hazards and can offer practical suggestions for improvement. Regularly updating procedures based on these reviews helps maintain a safe working environment.
Ensure proper signage and labelling
Proper signage and labelling are crucial for maintaining safety compliance. Safety signs should be clearly visible and provide essential information about hazards, emergency exits, and safety equipment locations. Labelling hazardous materials with the correct warning symbols and handling instructions is also essential.
Signs and labels should be updated regularly to reflect any changes in safety procedures or workplace layout. Ensuring that all employees understand the meaning of different signs and labels can prevent accidents and improve response times in emergencies.
Ensure adequate personal protective equipment (PPE)
Providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) is a fundamental aspect of workplace safety. Employers must ensure that employees have access to the necessary PPE, such as gloves, masks, helmets, and safety glasses, depending on their job roles. It is also important to regularly inspect and replace PPE to ensure it remains effective.
Training employees on the proper use and maintenance of PPE is essential. They need to understand when and how to use each piece of equipment to protect themselves effectively. Ensuring compliance with PPE usage can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and illnesses in the workplace.
Third new appointment at Derby ICT specialist
Derby-based outsourced IT and Telecoms specialist Link ICT has appointed Jordan Glover as a Business Administrator. This is the company’s third new appointment since the start of 2024 in response to growing demand from schools and businesses investing in improved ICT systems and connectivity.
Jordan, who lives in Derby and has an Honours Degree in Law from Keele University, previously worked for Enterprise Flex-e-Rent, a sister company to Rent-a-Car dealing with fleet vehicle contract administration.
In his new role, Jordan will be responsible for client liaison and procurement as well as general administration and health and safety. This will involve liaising with Link ICT customers and suppliers to maintain healthy and positive relationships, ensuring all customers get the best prices possible and providing support to technicians out on site.
Founded in 2004, Link ICT will soon celebrate its 20th anniversary and is about to move to new offices in Pride Park. The company proposition is slightly different to other outsourced IT providers as all clients have their own dedicated technician working in site on set days and times. This means they become part of the client team, helps to ensure problems are fixed quickly and helps all users gain confidence using IT to work more effectively and efficiently.
Jordan said: “One of the main reasons for joining is because the working environment is endlessly kind and caring. From the moment I was interviewed to being sat in my new chair for the first time, everyone has made me feel valued, cared for and that I am an important part of the team. This isn’t a feeling you get at every company. The role also provides me a huge opportunity to advance my career and gaining more experience in purchasing and customer and supplier relations.”
In his spare time, Jordan enjoys walking in the Lake District, going to the gym as well as running. He also enjoys playing and watching football, and is a huge F1 motor racing fan. As a person who has been diagnosed with epilepsy Jordan raises money for SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) and is currently training to run a 10k around Silverstone Circuit.
Leicestershire e-commerce retailer strengthens presence in nursery sector with acquisition
Leicestershire e-commerce retailer, The Kid Collective has acquired Scandibørn, a supplier of Scandinavian inspired children’s toys, interiors and accessories, from Findel Education Ltd, for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone in The Kid Collective’s strategic expansion in the nursery sector.
“We are so excited to welcome Scandibørn to The Kid Collective family,” said Laura Davies, Founder and CEO of The Kid Collective Ltd. “This acquisition represents a pivotal moment in our journey of growth within the industry, and we look forward to leveraging our expertise to continue to provide the Scandiborn community with products we know they’ll love!”
The acquisition of Scandibørn, and its established customer base, will enable The Kid Collective Ltd to broaden its e-commerce portfolio, and reach a wider audience. Scandibørn
will continue to offer a range of purpose-led gifts, childrenswear, maternity products and interior accessories for newborns through to toddlers, while The Kid Collective maintains its roots in play, for toddlers and the early years category.
Chris Mahady, CEO, Findel Education Ltd, said: “We are extremely pleased to have found
Scandibørn a great new home with The Kid Collective, where it will become part of a fully focused online retail consumer business.
“As part of the recent change in business ownership of Findel with the recent acquisition by Manutan, this decision has been made to ensure Findel focuses resources, time and attention on its B2B core education brands which are its area of expertise.”
Jailed restaurant owner to pay more than £36,000 following Covid Bounce Back Loan fraud
The former owner of a Derbyshire curry house who was sent to prison for Covid fraud has been ordered to repay more than £36,000.
Syed Hussain was jailed for 18 months and banned as a company director for three years in August 2023 after admitting charges of fraud by false representation and an offence under the Companies Act.
Hussain fraudulently secured a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan in May 2020 while serving a suspended sentence for breaching fire safety regulations at the former Moja Indian restaurant in Matlock.
The 24-year-old then dissolved his Magic of Spice Ltd company on the same day the funds appeared in his bank account.
Hussain, of Provident Street, Derby, was ordered to pay £36,200 during a confiscation hearing at Derby Crown Court on Friday 17 May.
Mark Stephens, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: “Syed Hussain’s cynical actions in exploiting a taxpayer-backed scheme introduced at a time of national emergency were completely unacceptable.
“His behaviour in failing to notify the bank when he was applying to have his company struck off the register was equally calculated and pre-planned.
“The Insolvency Service will not tolerate deliberate abuse of the public purse which is why Hussain now faces a financial penalty to go with the time he has spent behind bars.”
Hussain applied for the maximum permitted £50,000 loan in May 2020, claiming on the application form that the turnover of Magic of Spice was £200,000. He later said putting this figure down was a mistake. Hussain said that he had decided to close down the company based on Dale Road in Matlock when he made the application as it had been struggling for the previous year. The loan application was made by Hussain when he was only months into a suspended sentence for breaching fire safety regulations at his restaurant. Hussain transferred £30,000 of the loan to two family members who used the money for their own personal spending. A further £10,000 was used for personal expenses such as hotels and car hire. No evidence was provided to the Insolvency Service of the money being used for business purposes. Hussain also made no repayments to the loan despite this being a condition of the scheme. Derby Crown Court gave Hussain three months to pay the money or face an additional 18 months in prison. Hussain would still owe the full amount ordered in the event he fails to comply and is returned to prison.Environmental Consultancy EMEC joins the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
Environmental Consultancy EMEC has joined the sponsor line up for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, backing the Contractor of the Year category.
Speaking with Business Link, Ed Tripp, Consultancy Director at EMEC, said: “EMEC is the go to Environmental Consultancy based within the region, for ecology, biodiversity and land management services. EMEC decided to sponsor Contractor of the Year in order to contribute to rewarding exciting and innovative approaches to sustainable development.
“As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, all profits are gift aided to the Trust to support nature conservation, and sustainability is at the heart of our core beliefs. Since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation became mandatory in February 2024, new developments will need to deliver a minimum 10% BNG and its never been more important for Contractors and Ecologists to work together for the benefit of the natural environment.
“Our top advice for any contractors looking to submit an application is to showcase a nature/ecology first approach to their development schemes. We firmly understand the need for new developments in order to drive the economy forward, but we will be looking for contractors who are showcasing an innovative approach to embracing sustainability. Our role as the consultant ecologist is as much about protecting habitats as it is about offering added value advice to the developer so that the communities they create, incorporate diversity.”
The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, recognise development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Winning one of these awards will add considerably to a company’s or individual’s brand and enhance their commercial reach significantly.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
“As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, all profits are gift aided to the Trust to support nature conservation, and sustainability is at the heart of our core beliefs. Since Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation became mandatory in February 2024, new developments will need to deliver a minimum 10% BNG and its never been more important for Contractors and Ecologists to work together for the benefit of the natural environment.
“Our top advice for any contractors looking to submit an application is to showcase a nature/ecology first approach to their development schemes. We firmly understand the need for new developments in order to drive the economy forward, but we will be looking for contractors who are showcasing an innovative approach to embracing sustainability. Our role as the consultant ecologist is as much about protecting habitats as it is about offering added value advice to the developer so that the communities they create, incorporate diversity.”
The East Midlands Bricks Awards, which will take place on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, recognise development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes.
Winning one of these awards will add considerably to a company’s or individual’s brand and enhance their commercial reach significantly.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Award categories include:
- Most active agent
- Commercial development of the year
- Responsible business of the year
- Residential development of the year
- Developer of the year
- Deal of the year
- Architects of the year
- Excellence in design
- Sustainable development of the year
- Contractor of the year
- Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated)
Nominations end Thursday 5th September
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction leaders from across the region.
Tickets can be booked for the 2024 awards event here. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.
Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
