East Midlands Freeport reappoints chair to guide next phase of growth

Tess Egginton
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East Midlands Freeport reappoints chair to guide next phase of growth
East Midlands Freeport (EMF) has reappointed Nora Senior CBE DL as chair, ensuring continuity of leadership as the UK’s only inland freeport enters its next phase of delivery across three nationally strategic sites. The announcement coincides with the launch of EMF’s new Investment Strategy and 2025/26 Business Plan, which set out priorities to unlock significant private sector investment, support clean growth, and strengthen the East Midlands’ role in advanced manufacturing, logistics, energy and innovation. Since its establishment in 2021, EMF has secured £150m of private investment and enabled the creation of more than 850 skilled jobs. The Freeport’s current priorities include: transport and connectivity improvements to enable long-term growth across the region, advancing commercialisation at the nationally significant East Midlands Intermodal Park (EMIP), and driving clean energy and innovation at the Ratcliffe-on-Soar site, supporting the UK’s transition to net zero. Nora Senior has provided strategic direction for the Freeport since inception, overseeing its progress from start-up to operational delivery. Under her leadership, EMF has built a robust public–private partnership, established strong relationships with government, industry and regional stakeholders, and aligned its strategy with national priorities in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and trade. Her reappointment provides stability at a time when EMF is focused on delivery that will shape both the regional economy and the UK’s wider competitiveness. Nora Senior CBE DL, chair of East Midlands Freeport, said: “East Midlands Freeport is delivering real impact — attracting investment, creating jobs, and laying the foundations for long-term prosperity. As we move from ambition into implementation, I am pleased to continue leading this partnership to ensure we maximise the Freeport’s potential for our region and the UK.” An award-winning business leader, Nora has held senior positions including executive group chair of a multinational communications company, president of the British Chambers of Commerce, and vice chair of council at the University of Nottingham. Her experience in strategic communications and international business engagement will continue to be an asset as EMF strengthens collaboration with government, investors and industry. Tom Newman-Taylor, chief executive of East Midlands Freeport, added: “Nora’s leadership has been central to establishing East Midlands Freeport as one of the UK’s most advanced. With her reappointment, we can move forward with confidence – accelerating delivery across our sites and ensuring the Freeport continues to attract investment and create opportunities locally, regionally and nationally.”

Donation enables Footprints to complete sensory room and install community coffee bar at new Clifton centre

Tess Egginton
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Donation enables Footprints to complete sensory room and install community coffee bar at new Clifton centre
Chartered surveyors FHP has donated to Nottingham charity Footprints Conductive Education Centre, enabling it to progress with the next phase of works at its new centre in Clifton. A previous supporter of the charity, FHP chose Footprints due to the major renovation project of its new HQ at the former Highbank Community Centre in Clifton. Following the completion of phase one works, which saw vital facilities created including dedicated session rooms for Conductive Education, a speech and communication room, an accessible children’s toilet training room, and family room, Footprints’ new accessible hub for children who live with mobility and communication difficulties opened to families in June 2025. The donation from FHP will enable the charity to start work on its new sensory room, which has been designed to accommodate the needs of children and adults of all abilities, and will be available for Footprints’ families and the community. The funds will also allow works to begin to install the community coffee bar onsite within the centre. The coffee bar will provide a welcoming place for Footprints families, giving them a chance to connect, share experiences, and support one another in a relaxed and inclusive environment. It will also be open to the public. FHP is continuing to support Footprints post donation, making introductions to local firms who may be able to help with the tarmacking of the centre car park and solar panel installation. In future phases of works, there is still much to do to fulfil Footprints’ needs and ambitions of providing its life changing services to as many families as possible, and to provide a social and vibrant hub for the local community. Works the charity is looking for partners on include: the refurbishment of what will be a community hall, outdoor sensory areas from each of the three session rooms, solar panels to assist with efficiency of the building and help with running costs, an outdoor seating area as an extension to the coffee bar, refurbishment to damaged windows, blinds, and a porch to the entrance of the centre to protect attending families from the weather. Stephen Frew, business and charity manager at Footprints, said: “We are very excited to start the next phase in the transformation of our new charity home in Clifton. The first part of this year has been focused on welcoming families to our new centre and running our Conductive Education and Speech and Communication sessions from there. “Thanks to the incredibly generous donation and support from FHP, we’re now able to start the works for the much-anticipated community coffee bar, which will be available not only for our families, but also for the community around us. The donation will also be utilised for our sensory room, another accessible and positive space which our families will benefit from and also children, young people and adults across the area. “We really are overwhelmed by the support we’ve received so far on our transformation project, from FHP and all of the organisations across the East Midlands, as well as the amazing number of volunteers who we’ve worked with. We’re so proud of the accessible, positive and community hub we’re developing.” David Hargreaves, director at FHP, said: “At FHP, the team always strive to support causes close to their heart and we’re delighted that we can help organisations such as Footprints that work tirelessly in improving lives in the local area. It’s incredibly important to promote the charity’s great work and we hope the new coffee bar and sensory room will continue to benefit Footprints’ families and communities.” Previously operating from a site within a Sneinton school which closed, Footprints had already planned to relocate to a new location, with larger and more accessible facilities. Thanks to significant fundraising efforts and the support of more than 150 volunteers and a raft of generous partners, the charity is progressing its works to transform the site into an accessible and inspiring new space that will serve more children and families. Ashby-based workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors has been instrumental in enabling the charity to relocate, by project managing and sourcing donated materials for the transformation of a long-time vacant building into a fully accessible centre for children and families living with disabilities. Footprints continue to seek donations and volunteers for the ongoing project. If you’d like to support and be part of this exciting project, contact enquiries@footprintscec.org

WBR Group bolsters legal team

Tess Egginton
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WBR Group bolsters legal team
WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS administration and integrated professional services, has appointed solicitors Raksha Aggarwal and Nathan Mee to its growing legal team. Raksha Aggarwal joins WBR as a corporate solicitor, bringing with her experience in both corporate and commercial law. Since qualifying in 2020, Raksha has advised a diverse client base, from SMEs to large corporate bodies on complex transactions including mergers and acquisitions, company reorganisations, and demergers. Her expertise also spans commercial contracts, including distribution agreements and terms and conditions. Outside of her legal career, Raksha is an avid cricket enthusiast and a proud supporter of Leicester City Football Club. Nathan Mee joins WBR as a solicitor in the Commercial Property team. Having worked in law since 2012, Nathan brings a wealth of practical experience across a broad range of non-contentious commercial property matters, including acquisitions and disposals, landlord and tenant arrangements, secured lending and development projects. Nathan qualified as a solicitor in December 2023 but spent the previous ten years in the industry working as an apprentice and paralegal before completing his training and qualifying as a solicitor. Away from the office, Nathan supports Nottingham Forest and often travels to games across the country as well as spending time with his young family in the Leicestershire countryside. Roy Botterill, general counsel at WBR Group, said: “We are proud to welcome Raksha and Nathan to the team. Their combined experience and client-focused approach will strengthen our legal offering and support our clients across a wide range of commercial and corporate matters. These appointments reflect our continued investment in legal talent and our commitment to delivering exceptional service.” Nathan Mee added: “I am really pleased to join WBR Group and contribute to its dynamic legal team. Having worked across a variety of property transactions, I look forward to supporting our clients with practical, commercially minded advice.” Raksha Aggarwal said: “Joining WBR Group is a fantastic opportunity to work with a forward-thinking team and support clients through complex legal challenges. I am looking forward to collaborating across departments and helping shape innovative legal solutions.”

SoundingBoard volunteers provide free support to businesses and charities

April Lara
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SoundingBoard volunteers provide free support to businesses and charities
SoundingBoard has made its panel of experts available to help Leicestershire businesses and nonprofits looking to overcome barriers to growth.

The volunteer-led social enterprise offers local businesses a unique opportunity to unlock growth with the help of ideas from selected panels of seasoned business leaders.

Each month, SoundingBoard convenes a panel of experts to meet in Loughborough for an intensive 2-hour session focussed purely on the unique situation of one invited business.

Guest businesses use the sessions to get ideas and introductions which help them capitalise on opportunities and address barriers to growth. The confidential sessions provide tailored, high-level discussion, and practical ideas which help to drive local economic development.

A manufacturing consultancy that received SoundingBoards support said: “SoundingBoard gave us new avenues to explore and a renewed impetus to stretch ourselves and grow as a business. It was a highly valuable session.”

SoundingBoard director Scott Charlish said: “We estimate that it would cost around £2,000 to access two hours of our panel’s time on the commercial market – if indeed it were possible to buy such a service on the commercial market.

“Our aim is to focus our panellists hundreds of years of combined experience and networking on generating ideas and network introductions for local entrepreneurs – all at no cost to them.”

Initially launched in 2021 – then named nCourage – the panel has since met with dozens of East Midlands SMEs, social entrepreneurs, and charities. It was incorporated as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2024.

The CIC began trading as SoundingBoard in Spring 2025, when a UKSPF grant from Charnwood Borough Council enabled it to rebrand and launch an automated website.

The website is now being used to accelerate SoundingBoard’s impact by providing an automated channel for prospective guests and panellists to register their interest.

Councillor Jenni Tillotson, lead for economic development, said: “Charnwood Borough Council’s Economic Development Strategy strengthens our local economy by prioritising our business environment, people and skills, and innovation.

“SoundingBoard itself supports those three priorities, but also helps other local nonprofits and SMEs to grow too.

“It’s a unique community-led solution to overcoming business growth barriers, which is why we wanted to help accelerate its development through UKSPF.”

Since its pilot in 2021 and incorporation as a Community Interest Company in 2024, SoundingBoard has already met with more than 20 local businesses.

Guests have ranged from tech firms to manufacturers, charities to university spinouts.

A Leicestershire creative business owner described who attended a previous panel said: “This is a rare opportunity for a business owner or entrepreneur to take a good look at their business and aspirations with professionals who can help give you a better perspective.”

Nottingham small business owners invited to talk AI at netwalk event

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham small business owners invited to talk AI at netwalk event
Small Business Britain and BT are bringing their next ‘NetWalk’ to Nottingham this month, to help boost skills around some of the hottest technology topics for small businesses today, artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber security. Small business owners from across the area can join a one-hour ‘NetWalk’ on 24 September at the Forest Recreation Ground, where they will hear practical tips from experts and small businesses leading the way on the latest technology updates. This will include cyber security advice from specialised experts at BT and officers at Nottinghamshire Police, as well as tips on how AI can transform operations, save time and boost creativity. “AI is not just for big tech companies. It is transforming the way small businesses operate every day, helping business owners save time, make smarter decisions, and unlock new opportunities for growth,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO and founder of Small Business Britain. “This NetWalk gives entrepreneurs a unique chance to meet and connect with other businesses in similar situations and pick up some really practical technology tips, from those leading the way across Cyber Security and AI.” Chris Sims, chief commercial officer, UK Business at BT, said: “NetWalks provide small businesses with the perfect environment to connect and learn. This Nottingham event will give participants the chance to meet AI experts, discuss opportunities and challenges, and discover how embracing AI can increase efficiency, creativity, and growth in their businesses.” Participants will meet AI experts Matt Hughes and Kristian Downer, ask questions during the Netwalk, and book short one-on-one masterclasses. Cybersecurity officers from BT and Nottinghamshire Police force will also be available to give practical advice on protecting businesses from online threats. The event will finish with refreshments at local business the Homemade Cafe. Small business owners can register for the event at https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/netwalks.

Northamptonshire expands adult learning with two new centres

April Lara
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Northamptonshire expands adult learning with two new centres

Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service (NALS) has launched two new learning centres in Northampton and Towcester, increasing access to adult education across the county.

The centres are funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and managed locally by West Northamptonshire Council. They feature purpose-built classrooms and resources designed to support learners of all ages and backgrounds.

The new facilities allow NALS to run a wider variety of courses at more flexible times while continuing to operate in community venues across the county. Course offerings include core skills in English and Maths, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), digital skills, health and wellbeing, and professional development.

Many courses are available free of charge to local residents. The centres aim to provide practical opportunities for skills development, career advancement, and personal growth, while supporting wider community engagement and lifelong learning.

NALS is currently enrolling learners at both sites, with immediate availability across multiple courses designed to meet individual and professional development needs.

Nuclear plans take shape at former Cottam coal site

April Lara
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Nuclear plans take shape at former Cottam coal site

A former coal power station in Nottinghamshire is set to host a small modular reactor (SMR) designed to supply electricity to advanced data centres. Cottam Power Station, decommissioned in 2019, saw its eight 114m cooling towers demolished in August this year.

Three companies, US energy firm Holtec International, EDF UK, and property manager Tritax, have signed an agreement to develop the SMR on the site, which covers around 900 acres. Feasibility studies and early-stage investment planning are underway, with operational targets set for the 2030s.

The reactor would be the second SMR of its type, following a facility in Michigan, US. The project is expected to generate skilled roles in manufacturing, construction, and long-term operations, while also supporting the growth of data infrastructure in the region.

The site forms part of the Trent Valley Supercluster, proposed as an AI Growth Zone, linking advanced nuclear technology with digital sector development. Cottam originally opened in 1968 with a capacity to power 3.7 million homes and was intended for 30 years of operation before its life was extended to 2019.

The initiative reflects broader UK efforts to integrate small modular reactors into the national energy mix, repurposing former fossil fuel sites for low-carbon industrial activity.

Consultiv Utilities extends services to Leicestershire and Rutland football clubs

April Lara
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Consultiv Utilities extends services to Leicestershire and Rutland football clubs

Consultiv Utilities has partnered with the Leicestershire and Rutland FA to provide energy consultancy to clubs across the region. The deal covers three competitions: the Under-7s 3v3 programme, the senior Challenge County Cup, and the Walking Football league.

Clubs involved will gain access to consultancy on energy contracts, cost management, and sustainability initiatives. Options include solar panel installations, battery storage, EV charging infrastructure, LED lighting, and waste management improvements. The programme also introduces revenue opportunities through sports vouchers and referral schemes.

The Under-7s 3v3 format focuses on fast-paced skill development for young players, while the County Cup supports semi-professional and grassroots football. Walking Football engages over 400 participants in age- and gender-specific divisions, promoting inclusivity across the community.

Consultiv Utilities brings experience with sports organisations and membership bodies, helping clubs optimise energy use, lower overheads, and implement efficiency upgrades. The partnership targets financial resilience and operational sustainability for football clubs in Leicestershire and Rutland.

My human video got mistaken for AI: by Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR

Tess Egginton
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My human video got mistaken for AI: by Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR
Greg Simpson, founder of Press For Attention PR, considers the problems of being too polished and the opportunity in authenticity. Someone offered me a better lip-syncing service for my videos last week. The irony? There was no lip-syncing involved. It was just me, talking to camera, being what I thought was quite polished in my delivery. My immediate reaction was worrying. Do you think I’m a wooden performer? Do you think all my content is AI-generated? Are you not trusting it anymore? That moment crystallised something I’d been sensing but hadn’t quite put my finger on. We’ve reached a tipping point where being too good at your job makes you look artificial. The polish problem As a former business journalist, I’ve spent 17 years perfecting my on-camera presence. Clean delivery, minimal stumbles, professional presentation. Turns out, that’s now working against me. The data backs this up. Only 45% of UK respondents can correctly identify AI-generated content. We’re living in a world where audiences have developed default scepticism about everything they see. Academic research confirms what I experienced firsthand. Human writing can be mistaken for AI, especially when it’s polished and error-free. My journalism background, which gave me that crisp, professional delivery, now makes me look suspiciously perfect. The authenticity advantage Here’s the counterintuitive bit. Our imperfections have become our competitive advantage. We shouldn’t worry about going “um” and “ah” anymore. We should embrace it. The opportunity to be normal, to stumble on words occasionally, to rephrase things or re-clarify something is exactly how you’d speak in real life. We shouldn’t be afraid to do that on camera, especially as AI becomes more dominant. It’s okay to only be okay. In fact, I think it’s positively encouraged to be less polished rather than picture perfect every time. The strategic response This creates a fascinating opportunity for PR professionals and content creators. As AI-generated material floods the market, with estimates suggesting 90 percent of online content could be AI-generated by 2025, authentic humanity becomes premium. We need to be more “I” in a world of AI. That means scratching your head occasionally. Looking off camera. Consulting notes. Showing the natural hesitations and corrections that signal genuine human thought. The very imperfections we’ve been trained to edit out are now our authenticity markers. What this means for your content If you’re creating educational content, following methodologies like Marcus Sheridan’s “They Ask You Answer,” you’re probably facing this same challenge. Your professional competence is making you look artificial. The solution isn’t to become genuinely bad at your job. It’s to deliberately incorporate the human elements that AI still struggles to replicate convincingly. Show your working. Include the natural pauses. Let people see you think. In a world where everyone’s suspicious of perfection, being perfectly imperfect becomes your differentiator. The person who offered me that lip-sync service did me a favour. They showed me that my authentic human delivery had become so polished it looked artificial. Now I know exactly how to fix that. A former business journalist, Greg Simpson is the author of The Small Business Guide to PR and has been recognised as one of the UK’s top 5 PR consultants, having set up Press For Attention PR in 2008. He has worked for FTSE 100 firms, charities and start-ups and conducted press conferences with Sir Richard Branson and James Caan. His background ensures a deep understanding of every facet of a successful PR campaign – from a journalist’s, client’s, and consultant’s perspective.   See this column in the September issue of East Midlands Business Link here.

East Midlands unveils first regional inclusive growth plan

April Lara
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East Midlands unveils first regional inclusive growth plan

Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire will receive a new framework aimed at boosting economic and social outcomes across the East Midlands. The Inclusive Growth Commission, established by the East Midlands Combined County Authority and local council leaders in November 2024, has delivered the UK’s first regional model focused on inclusive growth. The RSA was appointed to lead the Commission.

The plan outlines strategies across skills, health, housing and transport to support access to well-paid jobs, career progression and stronger community networks. Central to the report is the “Opportunity Escalator,” a framework designed to remove barriers and provide clear pathways for individuals to progress in work and life.

Economic projections indicate the region could attract £200 billion in investment by 2035. Targeting 18 emerging industrial sites could increase earnings for 30,000 low-paid workers by an average of £6,700 annually. Improved social networks could add £1.4 billion in household income for the poorest communities over the next decade, while reducing work-related health problems could save up to £10 billion annually.

The Commission recommends ensuring all young people have access to career guidance, work experience and wellbeing support, alongside adult retraining for high-demand sectors such as green energy and digital skills. Strengthening community engagement through local enterprises and public hubs is highlighted, together with promoting fair workplaces and attracting investment to deliver economic growth alongside social and environmental benefits.

The framework positions the East Midlands as a model for scalable, people-centred growth and provides local authorities and businesses with actionable steps to align workforce development, infrastructure and investment strategies.

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