Headline speakers revealed for Leicestershire Innovation Festival launch

Tess Egginton
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Headline speakers revealed for Leicestershire Innovation Festival launch
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL and the founders of AI+ will be the headline speakers at the launch of Leicestershire Innovation Festival 2025. They will kick off the seventh annual festival focussed on small business productivity and growth in Leicester and Leicestershire. More than half of available places for next week’s funded launch event have already been reserved. Dr Kotecha, who founded and leads both RandalSun Capital and Randal Charitable Foundation, is a major investor in regional innovation. He will talk on the need for increased regional productivity. Dr Kotecha chaired the Innovation Board, which launched the festival in 2018, and is the founder and former Chair of Morningside Pharmaceuticals, an international manufacturing firm he built and grew in Loughborough. Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, Founder, RandalSun Capital and Randal Charitable Foundation, said: “The accelerating speed of development in digital technology presents a fast-changing landscape of opportunities and challenges for SMEs. “Technology also offers immense potential for small businesses to make accessible small steps which can transform productivity and profitability. “As we have seen with the emerging Industrial Strategy, AI and digital are being promoted as a means of moving the East Midlands and UK economies forward.” Steve Barradell and Guy Boyle, directors of Loughborough-based Institute, will follow Dr Kotecha with a discussion on emerging digital tech and its implications for small business. Guy Boyle, Creative Director, Institute, said: “There’s a lot of tactical noise about AI currently out there but very little of the big picture stuff. “Why, for example, is industry using digital technology yet asking for the same skills it did 100 years ago? Why are businesses designing new processes that reflect an analogue world? “We’re interested in increasing knowledge among SMEs so they can ask better questions of those selling them current digital solutions.” Steve and Guy will also reveal details of Phase 2 of their AI+ Innovation for Business Course. The funded 12-week course for SMEs returns later this year in partnership with Loughborough College. Supported by Innovate UK, Phase 1 of the programme introduced dozens of local businesses to the potential of emerging digital technologies. The launch event of Leicestershire Innovation Festival runs from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the National Space Centre in Leicester on Monday 31 March.

Inflation sees February fall

Tess Egginton
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Inflation sees February fall
UK inflation dropped in February, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), inflation came in at 2.8% in the 12 months to February 2025, down from 3% reported in January, and below forecasts of 2.9%. The largest downward contribution to the change came from clothing. Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, stood at 3.5% in the 12 months to February, down from 3.7% in January. Martin Sartorius, Principal Economist, CBI, said: “Inflation remained firm in February, broadly in line with the Bank of England’s expectations. Looking ahead, price pressures are set to rise again in April, driven by higher energy costs, regulated price increases, and the passthrough of Autumn Budget measures. “We continue to expect that the Monetary Policy Committee will cut interest rates at a quarterly pace over 2025, in line with its ‘gradual and careful’ forward guidance. This should help ease the strain of high borrowing costs on businesses and households.”

Nottingham’s cutting-edge X-ray tech takes centre stage with MP visit

Michael Fisher
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Nottingham’s cutting-edge X-ray tech takes centre stage with MP visit

Nottingham-based HALO X-ray Technologies demonstrated its pioneering X-ray technology to local MP, Lilian Greenwood, during her recent visit to the company. HALO X-ray Technologies showcased how its technology is set to transform global aviation and border security. The MP for Nottingham South was shown how HALO is spearheading revolutionary X-ray diffraction solutions that promise faster, more accurate, and more secure screening for passengers and cargo worldwide.

The visit, organised by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), showcased how private equity and venture capital investments are helping to fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen Nottingham’s position as a hub for cutting-edge technology. HALO X-ray Technologies is one of 22 private capital-backed businesses headquartered in Nottingham South, contributing to the region’s economic growth and global technological leadership.

At the heart of HALO’s innovation is its proprietary X-ray diffraction technology, designed to automatically identify materials in real time. This capability significantly enhances security screening in airports and border crossings by reducing false alarms, expediting passenger flow, and increasing threat detection accuracy. The technology has also attracted interest from the medical sector for advanced diagnostic imaging applications, and has applications for industrial inspection.

HALO systems are currently installed at Copenhagen Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as part of an initiative to prove operational performance in a live environment and establish the value proposition for X-ray diffraction at the checkpoint and for the wider aviation security community.

HALO is currently working on UK, EU and US government funded programmes that have helped develop core IP and establish new product opportunities. HALO has to date secured ~£16M funding through various government programmes. This engagement with government and regulators has been key to the continued success of the business and technology.

HALO has also been backed by a consortium of UK government-backed funds consisting of  the UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, both managed by Future Planet Capital), and the UK Government’s Future Fund, alongside Agilent Technologies, Inc, a global leader in chemical and life science analysis. The investment support has enabled the company to accelerate R&D and advance commercial partnerships in the security sectors. By supporting HALO, these investors are championing UK-led innovation in aviation security, border protection, and advanced materials detection, helping to drive economic growth and job creation in Nottingham and beyond.

Following her visit, Lilian Greenwood MP commented: “It was fantastic to meet with the team at HALO X-ray Technologies and see first-hand the groundbreaking work taking place right here in Nottingham. This is a great example of how innovation and private investment are driving high-tech job creation and positioning the UK as a leader in aviation and border security solutions.”

East Midlands mid-market businesses show resilience amid rising costs

April Lara
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East Midlands mid-market businesses show resilience amid rising costs

Mid-sized businesses in the East Midlands are showing increased confidence despite rising employment costs, according to Grant Thornton UK LLP’s latest Business Outlook Tracker. The report highlights a shift in hiring strategies, with 50% of businesses now planning to reduce or freeze hiring, up from 43% in December 2024. Many also review pay increases, bonuses, and employee benefits to manage costs.

Despite these challenges, 73% of mid-sized firms in the region are optimistic about revenue growth over the next six months, up from 65% in December. Profit expectations have also risen, with 72% forecasting an increase, compared to 43% previously.

In contrast, larger corporations across the UK are becoming less optimistic, with a 10-percentage-point drop in confidence about the UK economy and declines in expectations for funding, revenue growth, and profit increases.

Grant Thornton’s Matt Buckingham noted that East Midlands businesses are adapting quickly, leveraging a mix of global corporates and agile mid-market firms across manufacturing, energy, tourism, and professional services. With the Spring Statement approaching, businesses remain focused on strategic planning to sustain growth despite economic pressures.

Businesses must prepare for single-use vape ban from 1 June

April Lara
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Businesses must prepare for single-use vape ban from 1 June

From 1 June, businesses in Derbyshire will be prohibited from selling, supplying, or possessing single-use vapes for sale, both online and in-store. The ban applies to all disposable vapes, regardless of nicotine content, and will be enforced by Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards team, excluding Derby city.

Violators face a £200 fine per offence, with repeat breaches risking unlimited fines, up to two years in prison, or both. Authorities will also have the power to seize illegal stock.

The move aims to curb environmental damage caused by vape waste and reduce fire hazards from improper disposal. Businesses are urged to review their stock and ensure compliance to avoid penalties.

Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

April Lara
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Grand Central plans direct Lincolnshire-London rail service by 2026

Grand Central has notified Network Rail of its plans to introduce a direct rail service between Lincolnshire and London, connecting Cleethorpes, Grimsby, Habrough, and Scunthorpe to King’s Cross. The company will submit a formal application to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), and pending regulatory approval, services are expected to launch by late 2026.

The proposed route would add over 775,000 new seats annually, improving regional connectivity and optimising underused rail capacity. Trains will integrate with Grand Central’s existing services via Doncaster, offering more travel options for passengers.

Managing Director Paul Hutchings highlighted the significance of restoring direct rail links to Cleethorpes, last available in 1992. The service aims to enhance economic ties between Lincolnshire and London, benefiting passengers and businesses.

The initiative follows London North Eastern Railway’s failed attempt to establish a similar route in 2023. Grand Central’s expansion could reshape regional transport and support economic growth in underserved areas if approved.

Avant Homes secures approval for £45m North Lincolnshire development

April Lara
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Avant Homes secures approval for £45m North Lincolnshire development

Avant Homes has received planning approval for a £45 million residential development in Yaddlethorpe, North Lincolnshire. The 20.1-acre site, named Moorwell Meadows, will feature 200 energy-efficient homes with two to five bedrooms.

Construction is set to begin in May, and the first homes will be available for sale in October. A show home is expected to open in November, and initial residents are scheduled to move in by December. The project includes a £170,000 community contribution towards improvements to Riddings Community Centre.

Delivered by Avant Homes North Yorkshire, the development aligns with the company’s expansion strategy in Lincolnshire. Avant Homes operates across the Midlands, northern England, and Scotland, focusing on multi-tenure housing for private, rental, and affordable sectors.

Cash injection helps Leicester supported housing provider upgrade homes

Tess Egginton
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Cash injection helps Leicester supported housing provider upgrade homes
Advance Housing and Support has been awarded £980,000 by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to improve the energy efficiency of its homes. The funding comes from the Warm Homes Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (Wave 3) and will help boost the work Advance is already doing to upgrade all its homes to at least EPC band C by 2030. The full amount of funding will be matched by Advance to install energy efficiency measures such as insulation, low carbon heating systems and new windows and doors to its homes. While helping to reduce Advance’s carbon footprint, the measures will also deliver benefits to customers through lower energy bills and more comfortable homes. Chief Executive, Julie Layton, said: “This funding will support our ambitions to make sure all our properties end up meeting quality standards for energy efficiency, reducing costs and enhancing living conditions for customers.”

New tourism strategy launched for Blaby District to boost local economy

Tess Egginton
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New tourism strategy launched for Blaby District to boost local economy
Blaby District Council has launched a new tourism strategy to boost the local economy, supporting businesses and backing jobs. The Tourism Growth Plan has been developed with input from partners and local businesses. Building on the success of the previous plan, it sets out ambitions for an increase in visitor numbers and the local economy by 10% up to 2030. Figures from 2023 show tourism added £216.84m to the District’s economy and supported more than 2,000 local jobs. A key strength has been cooperation with local outlets through the Blaby District Tourism Partnership. Working with Visit Leicester has also provided wider opportunities. These alliances remain a priority in the Plan. Other priorities include: supporting firms facing skills or recruitment issues, using waterways, green spaces and cycling and walking routes to draw in visitors, focusing on accessible spaces, and promoting and boosting sustainable tourism. Marc Greenwood, Executive Director for Place at Blaby District Council, said: “Boosting tourism enhances the reputation of Blaby District as an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest in. “By raising our profile as an inspiring destination we can support businesses, safeguard jobs and grow the economy. A healthy tourism sector helps our District thrive. It creates rich memories for visitors and improves local prosperity, a benefit for all residents.” Jo Dempster, Chair of Blaby District Tourism Partnership and Director of Sales and Marketing at Leicester Marriott Hotel, said: “Over the last five years the Tourism Partnership has grown from strength to strength. “It has supported the Growth Plan and contributed to its significant achievements. We will build on this foundation for the new Growth Plan. By continuing to work together we can increase visitor numbers, creating a vibrant visitor economy.”

Significant milestone for development of £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop

Tess Egginton
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Significant milestone for development of £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop
A ground-breaking ceremony has marked a significant milestone in the creation of an £8.5m Health and Wellbeing Hub in Worksop. Expected to be completed by early 2026, Bassetlaw District Council has awarded the building contract to Tilbury Douglas to transform the long vacant site on Newgate Street, which is owned by the council and will be leased to the NHS and operated by Newgate Medical Group. Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh said: “This is a significant milestone in transforming a vacant site into a new Health and Wellbeing Hub that will benefit residents and patients across the area. “A great deal of work has taken place to get us to this stage where construction is getting underway, and we look forward to working with our NHS partners to bring about this exciting development.” The new hub, next to the Newgate Medical Practice, will include 24 consulting rooms, three treatment rooms and additional space for admin and support services. Paul Ellenor, Regional Director for Yorkshire & North East at Tilbury Douglas, said: “Breaking ground on the Newgate Street Health & Wellbeing Hub is an exciting milestone. “This project will not only provide high-quality healthcare facilities for the local community but also create opportunities for apprentices and trainees, reinforcing our commitment to developing the next generation of construction professionals.”
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