£21.5m funding backs Nottingham student accommodation scheme

April Lara
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£21.5m funding backs Nottingham student accommodation scheme

Arc & Co. and Hampshire Trust Bank have finalised a £21.5 million development facility to deliver a 210-bed purpose-built student accommodation project in central Nottingham.

The funding package has been structured and arranged by Arc & Co., with Hampshire Trust Bank providing the finance. Construction is already under way and the scheme is scheduled for completion in time for the 2027 student intake.

The project is entering a market where student demand in Nottingham continues to exceed available supply. Both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University remain major draws for a growing student population, creating consistent pressure on accommodation capacity.

Philip Kay, Director at Arc & Co, said: “PBSA remains a highly active sector for Arc & Co., and we were very pleased to support the sponsor on this important Nottingham scheme.

“Our role was to structure and arrange a funding solution that aligned with the developer’s requirements, and HTB proved to be an excellent partner throughout the process. Their ability to navigate the complexities of a transaction of this scale and deliver with certainty made them the right lender for this project.”

For Hampshire Trust Bank, the transaction reinforces its activity in the student housing sector, one of the more resilient segments of the regional property market. It also adds to the bank’s expanding portfolio of complex development finance projects.

Arc & Co. has been active across the UK this year, closing a series of large funding deals exceeding £20 million each. These include a £26 million bridging loan for a prime London residential property, a £36 million gross development value student accommodation scheme in London, and a £59 million loan secured against a hotel portfolio.

Acrisure expands UK broking brand with latest rebrands

April Lara
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Acrisure expands UK broking brand with latest rebrands

Acrisure has continued its UK integration programme with the rebrand of two long-established brokerages, Hine Chartered Insurance Brokers in Manchester and CRK Commercial Insurance Services in the Midlands. Both now trade under the Acrisure name.

The move is part of a wider strategy to consolidate a growing number of acquisitions into a single, unified platform. Other firms that have already transitioned include Sutton Winson, Affinity Brokers, FinCred, and Building and Land Guarantees. Acrisure aims to streamline operations and strengthen its market position in the UK through this process.

Hine, a Chartered insurance broker with more than four decades in the market, becomes the first Acrisure-acquired brokerage in Northern England to adopt the global brand. It has built a reputation for specialist risk management and insurance services for both business and private clients.

CRK, founded in 2000, is known for its commercial insurance expertise in manufacturing and engineering. It joins Building and Land Guarantees as Acrisure’s second rebranded brokerage in the Midlands.

Acrisure’s UK network now spans 19 offices, employing more than 800 staff across the country. The business is supported by operations including Acrisure Re, Acrisure London Wholesale, three Managing General Agents, and the Eleven Network. It also maintains partnerships in sport and the community, notably with Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and The Blaze women’s cricket team.

Acquisition sees Ideagen add specialised chemical management to EHS portfolio

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Acquisition sees Ideagen add specialised chemical management to EHS portfolio
Ruddington-headquartered software company, Ideagen has acquired SafetyStratus, a Texas-based provider of enterprise environmental, health and safety (EHS) software. SafetyStratus offers a wide-ranging EHS platform with a distinct focus on sophisticated chemical management. Its specialised modules include chemical management, chemical inventory, radiation, hazardous waste and biosafety. The company serves a diverse customer base of university labs, commercial laboratories and large enterprises that rely on precise chemical handling and compliance. This acquisition adds advanced chemical management capabilities to Ideagen’s EHS and quality management (EHSQ) solutions and will allow the company to offer Ideagen Chemical Management as a specialised platform within and alongside its existing EHSQ portfolio. Ben Dorks, CEO of Ideagen, said: “Our customers in life sciences, healthcare, energy and manufacturing need sophisticated chemical management solutions that understand the complexity of their operations. SafetyStratus brings exactly that – deep expertise in chemical inventory, radiation safety and hazardous waste management that goes far beyond traditional EHS platforms. “This acquisition means we can now provide our existing customers with integrated chemical management capabilities, while offering new clients the specialized compliance solutions they’ve been seeking within a comprehensive EHS platform.” Aditya Avadhanula, CEO and co-founder of SafetyStratus, said: “Joining Ideagen represents an incredible opportunity to amplify what we’ve built over the past 15 years. Our customers have always been at the heart of everything we do – from the university research labs conducting cutting-edge science to the manufacturing facilities managing complex chemical processes. Now we can serve them at an entirely new scale. “For our team, this means we can focus on what we do best – solving the complex challenges that come with sophisticated chemical management – while leveraging Ideagen’s global reach and resources to serve even more organizations that need these capabilities. “This acquisition validates that there’s real demand for chemical management solutions that understand the nuances of regulated industries. Together with Ideagen, we’re positioned to set new standards for how organizations handle chemical compliance, safety and operational excellence.” The addition of SafetyStratus takes Ideagen’s acquisitions to nine in 2025 including aviation noise monitoring business, Casper (September), environmental monitoring solution Envirosuite, wearable tech company Reactec and lone worker safety solution WorkSafe Guardian in August, food and beverage solutions SafeFood 360 and Authenticate in July, policy management solution ConvergePoint in June and contractor management company Beakon in February.

Defence estate modernisation moves forward in East Midlands

April Lara
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Defence estate modernisation moves forward in East Midlands

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed a £237 million contract with Bovis Construction Limited to modernise facilities at Kendrew Barracks and Bulwell Army Reserve Centre. The programme is part of the £5.1 billion Defence Estate Optimisation Portfolio, which is focused on upgrading infrastructure across the UK.

At Kendrew Barracks, work will include the development of new Single Living Accommodation for junior ranks, along with updated regimental offices, catering, and medical facilities. Supporting infrastructure will also be delivered to meet long-term operational needs.

Bulwell Army Reserve Centre will see investment in unit offices, secure storage, and a dedicated band practice facility. Together, the projects are designed to enhance the daily working and training environment of military personnel.

Major General AJ Smith CBE, Director of Basing and Infrastructure said: “This investment in new and improved infrastructure at Kendrew Barracks and Bulwell Army Reserve Centre will deliver significant and long-lasting benefits for our people. The project will improve quality of life for both Regular and Reserve personnel, while supporting military capability and delivering a more modern, sustainable estate.”

The investment also underpins wider estate restructuring. Kendrew Barracks is due to become the new base for 36 Engineer Regiment, relocating from Maidstone. Additional unit relocations from Grantham, Telford, and Nottingham are expected, enabling the disposal of several older sites.

Design and development work is ongoing, with construction scheduled to begin in autumn 2026. The scheme will create modern, sustainable facilities intended to support operational effectiveness and improve quality of life for both Regular and Reserve forces.

Keepmoat strengthens East Midlands division with new head of land & partnerships

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Keepmoat strengthens East Midlands division with new head of land & partnerships
Housebuilder, Keepmoat has strengthened its Nottinghamshire-based East Midlands division with the appointment of a new head of land & partnerships. With more than 11 years of industry experience, Charlotte Sargeant will support the wider land and partnerships team in driving acquisitions, focusing on strengthening new and existing partnerships, advancing local opportunities and supporting the team in achieving further organic growth across the East Midlands. She joins the housebuilder with extensive experience in sourcing and acquiring land, successful planning applications and delivering strategy across affordable housing, having previously held roles at Barratt & David Wilson Homes. Commenting on her appointment, Charlotte said: “I’m really proud to have joined a partnerships-first, national housebuilder focused on growth and multitenure developments. I look forward to using my experience in land and planning to enhance our region and provide the wider community with much-needed housing. “Through its strategic partnership model, Keepmoat is committed to delivering high quality, sustainable homes and I am eager to continue this effort and to develop both new and existing partnerships to meet local housing targets and strategies.” The East Midlands team is currently delivering multiple live sites across Nottingham, West Bridgford, Beeston, Gedling and Leicester. Adam Sharpe, regional managing director at Keepmoat East Midlands, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte to the team and I look forward to working with her to enhance our land pipeline and contribute to the growth of our region. “Charlotte brings a wealth of knowledge, industry insight and a fresh perspective to the role and will assist the team in accelerating our strategic goals. At Keepmoat, we are excited to see the positive impact she will make as we continue to grow and expand the region.”

Barwood Capital launches virtual cycle challenge for Baby Basics Northampton

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Barwood Capital launches virtual cycle challenge for Baby Basics Northampton
Northamptonshire-based real estate investment and development firm, Barwood Capital is embarking on a unique virtual challenge from the 6th – 10th October – cycling the distance from John O’Groats to Land’s End (a staggering 816 miles) – with the aim of raising £2,000 for Northampton charity Baby Basics. The company, which has already raised £300 towards its target, is inviting local people, businesses, and supporters nationwide to join in by pledging their own miles or by donating to the cause. Barwood will have a full virtual indoor riding setup on its premises during the week, including two road bikes which will be attached to a smart trainer. A virtual screen will also guide the riders through a virtual environment. Baby Basics Northampton provides essential items such as nappies, clothing, and cots to support new parents who are struggling due to a variety of reasons including financial hardship, housing issues, isolation, refugee status and domestic violence situations. With demand for its services at record levels, funds raised through the cycle will help the charity continue its vital work supporting parents and children across the region. Hugh Elrington, managing director at Barwood, said: “Not only is this a fantastic fundraising challenge for our team – but it’s also a chance to bring the whole community together. Whether you are able to cycle a mile, or ten, or show your support through a donation, every contribution counts. Together, we can clock up the miles and make a real difference for families supported by Baby Basics.” Sabrina Oakey, co-founder of Baby Basics Northampton, said: “We are delighted to have the support of Barwood through their virtual cycling fundraiser. £2,000 could provide 100 babies with a safe place to sleep and give dignity back to over 65 families through essential toiletry sets. “Partnerships like this are invaluable, as they not only raise vital funds but also help to spread awareness of our work. The commitment and energy Barwood are showing will make a real difference, helping us continue BabyBasics Northampton’s work to support families in crisis. “Fundraising activities like this remind us that when communities and businesses come together, the impact can be extraordinary. Together, we’re giving parents hope and babies the safest possible start in life.” Supporters can pledge their miles here or donate here.

Cooper Parry snaps up cyber security firm

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Cooper Parry snaps up cyber security firm
Accountancy firm Cooper Parry (CP) has acquired URM Consulting Services (URM), the cyber and information security specialists, as it looks to create a next-gen professional service group. This marks CP’s 17th acquisition since early 2023 – and the fifth since partnering with New York-based private equity firm Lee Equity Partners just five months ago. The deal pushes CP’s pro forma turnover beyond £240m, as the firm moves towards £600m by 2028 and £1bn by 2030. Founded 20 years ago, URM now anchors the cyber and information security offering at the core of CP’s digital consulting business. Lisa Dargan, CEO, URM Consulting Services, said: “I’m thrilled to be joining forces with such an ambitious firm as Cooper Parry, which through its bold vision is transforming the professional services arena. For 20 years, URM has built an outstanding reputation for providing high quality, tailored consultancy and training services. “We now have the unique chance to lead the next generation of end-to-end assurance providers. Acting as the cyber security cornerstone within the CP group, we’ll be able to offer existing and future clients truly integrated assurance services across all areas of business risk and further strengthen and develop our service offering.” Ade Cheatham, CEO, Cooper Parry, added: “URM is a class act. Lisa and her brilliant team have built something special – with original thinking, deep relationships, and real talent. Their agility in a fast-moving space sets them apart. With Digital consulting already a £20m+ business within CP, this deal adds even more firepower, depth, and client value to the group.”

Lincolnshire fresh produce supplier makes managing director appointment

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Lincolnshire fresh produce supplier makes managing director appointment
Fresh produce supplier A.H. Worth has appointed Matt Walton as managing director of its Fosdyke site and vegetable farms. Matt, former managing director of Branston Ltd and previously part of the A.H. Worth team until 2024, brings extensive experience in the fresh produce sector. In his new role, he will oversee the group’s produce farming and production operations across the UK, Spain and Italy. Commenting on his return, Matt said: “I’m excited to be returning to A.H. Worth and taking on this role at such an important time. With a strong heritage and a clear vision for the future, there are huge opportunities to expand and build on both the company’s track record and the success of the team – and I look forward to playing my part in that journey.” Alongside Matt’s appointment, Alex Boughton will move into a more focused role as managing director, A.H. Worth & Company. In this position, he will lead the group’s central support functions (People and Finance), its arable farming operations, and support the development of the property portfolio, as well as overseeing new growth and diversification opportunities. Alex said: “This new structure allows us to sharpen our focus on operational excellence in our Fosdyke and farms business, while also growing our arable farming and property operations. It enables us to accelerate diversification and growth initiatives and strengthen central support functions across the group. “Most importantly, this structure provides even greater clarity and support for our teams, helping them keep doing what they do best while opening up new opportunities for growth.”

Nottingham spin-out raises £2m for gene-editing tool

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Nottingham spin-out raises £2m for gene-editing tool
A University of Nottingham spinout that has developed a novel gene-editing tool has raised £2m from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through fund manager Mercia Ventures. The investment will enable Forge Genetics to expand its commercial work developing bacteria strains for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and adapt its tool for use with human and animal cells. Forge’s technology offers some key advantages over CRISPR, a widely-used tool that enables scientists to modify genes by inserting or removing sections of DNA. Because it is more precisely targeted, it enables more bacterial cells to survive the editing process, and can be used with a much wider range of bacterial strains. It may also provide a safer way to modify human cells. Unlike CRISPR, it can detect unwanted DNA mutations resulting from the editing process and filter out the damaged cells. Forge Genetics was founded by Professor Nigel Minton, Dr Chris Humphreys and Dr Craig Woods from the University of Nottingham, who were later joined by Dr Lisa Thomas. It currently uses the tool to carry out contract research and since its launch less than two years ago, has secured over £2.2m worth of business. The company, which is based at the university, plans to double its 10-strong team within the next two years. Launched over a decade ago, CRISPR has been widely used in research. The first application, for the treatment of sickle cell disease, was approved in 2023 but it can cost £1.65m or more per patient. Dr Craig Woods, co-founder and CEO of Forge Genetics, said: “The Forge editing tool was designed to overcome the challenges in editing more exotic strains of bacteria and opens up potential for new drugs and other products. The funding will enable us to expand our business more quickly and adapt it for human cells. By offering an alternative to existing gene-editing tools, we also hope to boost uptake of this exciting new technology.” Hannah Tapsell of Mercia Ventures added: “The Forge Genetics team have a strong technical reputation and we have been impressed by the rapid commercialisation they have already achieved. While there is a lot of potential to scale their existing business, there is also an exciting opportunity to expand into other areas and, in particular, to create a new and safer option for editing human genes.”

East Midlands pubs face mass closures without business rates relief

April Lara
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East Midlands pubs face mass closures without business rates relief

More than 200 pubs in the East Midlands risk closure next year unless the Government intervenes to reduce business rates. Research from the Centre for Economic and Business Research, commissioned by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), indicates 226 pubs could shut, threatening 1,486 jobs.

The sector is set to face a significant cost increase in 2026 due to the withdrawal of business rates relief and the revaluation of business properties. Without action, pubs’ business rates bills could rise by more than 50%, exacerbating existing financial pressures.

Pubs currently contribute 2.1% of the UK’s Business Rates bill despite generating only 0.4% of total turnover. At the average ratio, their bill would be £130 million rather than £637 million, meaning the sector overpays by £507 million annually.

The BBPA projects that, without reform, the UK could lose 2,000 pubs next year, affecting local economies and employment. A proposed 20p reduction in the pound for pubs could prevent almost 40% of closures, safeguarding 5,400 jobs and adding nearly £100 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the economy.

Alongside business rates reform, the sector highlights the need for reductions in beer duty, employment cost relief, and a review of packaging expenses. The BBPA argues these measures are achievable without direct cost to the Government and are crucial to preserving pubs as economic and social assets.

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