Chancerygate completes multiple sales at Leicestershire logistics hub

April Lara
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Chancerygate completes multiple sales at Leicestershire logistics hub

Chancerygate has sold five units at Genesis Park, its 128,000 sq ft urban logistics development in South Wigston, Leicestershire. The £23 million scheme now hosts a mix of investors and owner-occupiers.

Sammic, a global catering equipment manufacturer, purchased a 9,500 sq ft unit, while investor Stepnell acquired a 4,800 sq ft unit. Personal Homecare Pharmacy, already operating a 9,000 sq ft unit on site, expanded with an adjacent 5,800 sq ft unit. William & Phillips Holdings added two units to its existing portfolio at the park. Another 6,800 sq ft unit is currently under offer.

Genesis Park comprises 15 units ranging from 4,800 sq ft to 18,500 sq ft. Four units remain available on either a freehold or leasehold basis, sized between 5,400 sq ft and 9,900 sq ft.

The development is positioned as flexible urban logistics space catering to modern operational needs, emphasising sustainability and strategic location. Sutton Phillips, Savills and JLL are acting as agents for the scheme.

Chancerygate’s senior development and transaction director, Matthew Connor, said: “Completing these latest deals at Genesis Park highlights the high demand from both owner-occupiers and investors for the urban logistics accommodation we are delivering. “The returning business of existing owners also evidences our scheme’s ability to meet the demands of modern operations through its sustainability credentials, flexible sizing and strategic location. “With limited space now remaining at Genesis Park, any interested parties should get it touch to discuss the available leasehold and freehold opportunities at the scheme.”

Charity skydive sees Platform colleagues raise over £5,000 for NSPCC

Tess Egginton
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Charity skydive sees Platform colleagues raise over £5,000 for NSPCC
A group of fearless colleagues have raised £5,110 for the NSPCC. The team from Platform Housing Group swapped solid ground for the skies earlier this month to raise vital funds for the organisation’s corporate charity partner for 2025/26. The eight colleagues jumped from Brackley Airfield in Northamptonshire as part of a charity skydive, cheered on by family, friends and fellow Platform colleagues. The daring challenge follows the success of last year’s skydive in aid of Dementia UK, becoming one of Platform’s most popular fundraising activities. Each participant had a target of £395, but their combined efforts exceeded expectations, with every penny raised going towards the NSPCC’s vital work protecting children and supporting families across the UK. Chris Pinson-Bradley, community engagement manager at Platform Housing Group and organiser of the event, said: “It’s not every day you decide to jump out of a plane but knowing we have raised more than £5000 for the NSPCC made it absolutely worthwhile. “The support from colleagues, family, friends and our wider community has been overwhelming. I’m so proud of everyone who took part, it really shows the power of teamwork when it’s for a cause we all care deeply about. ” Those taking part were organiser Chris Pinson-Bradley, community engagement manager; Ashley McAllister, customer experience advisor; Bryan Richert, home ownership officer; Gill Murphy, retirement housing officer; Heidi Bumphrey, supported living service manager; Jodie Downton, supported living operations manager; Karen Gammon, rent officer and Lindsey Norris, external contracts delivery coordinator. Anita Hill, corporate partnerships manager at the NSPCC, said: “We are thrilled with the incredible effort from colleagues at Platform Housing Group and so grateful for the £5,110 raised through their skydive. “This generous support helps us continue our mission to keep children safe, provide essential services like Childline and be there for families when they need us most.  Platform’s commitment is truly inspiring.” The challenge is just one of the many fundraising activities colleagues are taking on for the NSPCC. There is still time to donate; please visit the fundraising page at Platform Housing Group – fundraising for NSPCC (2025-26) is fundraising for NSPCC

UK-US deal accelerates new nuclear projects

April Lara
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UK-US deal accelerates new nuclear projects

UK and US companies have signed a series of agreements to accelerate the development of nuclear power, supporting private investment and creating thousands of jobs across the two countries. The deals follow a government-level agreement designed to reduce licensing times for new nuclear projects from three to four years down to around two, enabling faster project delivery.

In the UK, the agreements are expected to expand the nuclear sector, which added 11,000 jobs this year. Projects include plans for up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, potentially generating enough electricity for 1.5 million homes and creating up to 2,500 local jobs, with wider UK programmes targeting a fleet producing 6GW of power. Total economic value for the North East is estimated at £12 billion, with the overall programme projected at £40 billion.

Other initiatives include the development of advanced data centres powered by small modular reactors at the former Cottam coal-fired station in Nottinghamshire, supported by Holtec, EDF, and Tritax, representing an £11 billion investment and creating both construction and long-term operational roles. Last Energy and DP World plan a micro modular reactor to provide clean power for the London Gateway port, backed by £80 million in private funding.

Fuel and technology agreements include Urenco and Radiant supplying advanced HALEU fuel to the US, while TerraPower and KBR will evaluate UK sites for Natrium reactors, each supporting roughly 1,600 construction jobs and 250 permanent positions.

The agreements form part of the UK government’s wider strategy to expand homegrown nuclear energy, including the Sizewell C development, small modular reactor programmes, and investments in fusion energy.

Specialist technical consultancy expands into Nottingham

Tess Egginton
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Specialist technical consultancy expands into Nottingham
MEC Consulting Group has expanded into Nottingham with the launch of its fourth office. The multi-disciplinary firm has taken office space within the ARC Space Studio in the city centre. Eight staff have relocated from MEC’s Leicester head office, with the new Nottingham team led by regional director, Tim Rose. “A central Nottingham office has been a consideration for some time and was built into our recruitment strategy, hence why we’ve been able to establish a strong, multifaceted team from the outset,” said Tim. “However, when the opportunity arose to join ARC Design Studio in their new co-working building, it felt like a natural fit, having collaborated with them on multiple projects. “ARC Space is a community-focused workspace that fosters teamwork and a strong sense of connection, which aligns perfectly with our own values. It also reflects a model that’s worked well for us in other locations, and we’re confident it will not only strengthen our relationship with ARC Design Studio but also provide a solid foundation for continued growth in Nottingham and the wider East Midlands.” Working alongside Tim at MEC Nottingham are Nathan Allen and Callum Astle (Lighting); Tom Sturtridge and Hope Waters (Flood Risk & Drainage); Jed Nicholson and Michael Webb (Civil Engineering); and Olesija Cepnijan (Geo-Environmental).

Vistry East Midlands

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Vistry East Midlands
Vistry East Midlands is the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes. Its purpose as a responsible developer is to work in partnership to deliver sustainable homes, communities, and social value, leaving a lasting legacy of places people love. A multi award-winning housebuilder which has been awarded the 5 Star Rating by the Home Builders Federation, Vistry sells homes on the open market through three respected brands: Bovis Homes, Linden Homes, and Countryside Homes. Building everything from starter homes through to five- and six-bedroom family houses, Vistry is able to deliver schemes from smaller developments of around 100 dwellings, to larger urban extensions with thousands of new homes and supporting infrastructure. All its homes, regardless of the brand, are designed to meet today’s consumers’ needs, blending tradition and innovation across design and construction to create homes and developments with contemporary living standards. With a product range including one-bedroom apartments through to larger family homes, Vistry works with local people to create communities, and it is passionate about building the right homes for customers. Vistry also has an exciting timber frame manufacturing operation called Vistry Works, with factories in Leicestershire and Warrington supporting a drive towards net zero. Part of making Vistry means being committed to the Future Homes Standard and delivering modern methods of construction at scale. This is so Vistry can build high-quality homes faster, more economically and in a more environmentally friendly way. Using timber frame panels from its Bardon factory, for example, has allowed the firm to reduce carbon emissions by 14,460kg CO₂e per home. For Vistry East Midlands, the past year has marked outstanding progress, having completed on 1,637 homes, delivering 597 affordable homes, 546 PRS and 444 private homes within the region. With a bold approach to development and a deep commitment to sustainability and community, the region has completed and launched several high-demand schemes that showcase excellence in housebuilding. An exemplary project has seen Vistry East Midlands lead the way on the £191m Top Wighay development in Nottinghamshire, a transformative 763-home scheme that includes 269 affordable homes, 97 private rental units, and 397 open market properties. The development will also feature a new primary school, retail centre, employment land, and a £6 million investment in local services. A dedicated Skills Academy on-site supports local employment and training, reinforcing Vistry’s commitment to social value.   To learn more about Vistry, please visit www.vistrygroup.co.uk

Stapleford to get new £236k skatepark

April Lara
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Stapleford to get new £236k skatepark

Stapleford is set to receive a £236,000 skatepark at Pasture Road Recreation Ground, following two years of consultation, community engagement and fundraising. The project has secured a £100,000 grant from the FCC Communities Foundation and is supported by the Government’s £21.1 million Stapleford Towns Fund. Additional funding came from a Crowdfunder UK campaign, match-funded by Sport England, which received donations from 202 local residents.

The skatepark has been designed with input from young people, local skateboard organisations and specialist designers to accommodate BMX and skateboarding of all skill levels. The layout incorporates street obstacles, ramps, ledges and rails, with features informed by research into female participation and accessible design. Facilities will be inclusive of differently-abled and neuro-diverse users, with dedicated programmes and equipment provided through Broxtowe Borough Council.

Broxtowe Borough Council plans to run free coached sessions, women-only sessions, arts workshops, and life-skills programmes linked to skateboarding culture. The skatepark replaces the previous Hickings Lane facility, which was removed in 2022. Construction is expected to begin following final approvals, with the facility designed for long-term use and community engagement.

The project reflects a combination of local initiative, grant funding, and strategic investment from multiple public and charitable sources to enhance recreational infrastructure in Stapleford.

East Midlands electronics firm saved through pre-pack acquisition

April Lara
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East Midlands electronics firm saved through pre-pack acquisition

An East Midlands electronics manufacturer and distributor, specialising in television antennas for the caravan, motorhome and marine sectors, has been acquired following administration. Grade (UK) Limited, trading as Vision Plus, entered administration in August 2025 after several years of declining sales and challenging market conditions in the recreational vehicle sector.

The company recorded a 25 per cent drop in sales in 2024, followed by a further 25 per cent decline in the first quarter of 2025. Increasing competition and changing consumer preferences compounded the business’s difficulties, despite investment in Wi-Fi-enabled antenna technology.

Joint administrators secured a pre-pack sale of Vision Plus to an unrelated buyer, aiming to maintain business continuity, preserve jobs, and maximise returns for creditors.

Financial filings for the year ending December 31 2023, show Grade (UK) Limited held fixed assets of £1.1 million and current assets of around £1.2 million, resulting in net assets just under £2.1 million.

Pre-pack acquisitions remain a common mechanism for rescuing companies, though regulatory scrutiny has tightened, particularly for sales involving connected parties.

Peak District National Park faces funding shortfall and potential staffing changes

April Lara
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Peak District National Park faces funding shortfall and potential staffing changes

The Peak District National Park Authority is preparing for reduced government funding by gauging staff interest in voluntary redundancy and shorter working hours. The authority receives £6.67 million annually from Defra, with the current three-year funding arrangement ending this financial year.

The organisation employs roughly 280 people, including rangers, ecologists, and archaeologists. Over the last decade, government support has fallen by half in real terms while operational costs have risen. Pressures include wildfire management, visitor safety, and parking enforcement.

Plans are under review to increase revenue, including proposals for visitor charges. No staffing decisions will be made until future government funding is confirmed.

Defra has committed an additional £15 million to national parks alongside up to £400 million annually for nature restoration. The department is collaborating with authorities to secure additional funding and promote innovative operational models.

The authority is undergoing a broader organisational restructure to align costs with anticipated budgets.

V Formation expands digital marketing capability

April Lara
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V Formation expands digital marketing capability

V Formation has strengthened its digital marketing team with the appointment of Gabriel Crow. Crow, a Durham University graduate, brings over four years of in-house marketing experience covering SEO, paid social campaigns, analytics, conversion rate optimisation, and UX testing.

He is skilled in tools, including Semrush and Google Analytics, alongside PPC management, web development, design, and data presentation. Crow will work across client projects while contributing to internal process improvements.

The Nottingham-based agency continues to broaden its digital offering to support a diverse client portfolio across multiple sectors.

East Midlands businesses face pressure as GDP stalls

April Lara
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East Midlands businesses face pressure as GDP stalls

The UK economy recorded zero growth in July, according to the Office for National Statistics, prompting concern among East Midlands businesses. The region’s firms continue to navigate rising costs, with higher employer National Insurance contributions, an increased national living wage, and inflation reaching 3.8% last month.

Data from the East Midlands Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey shows fragile confidence, with only three in ten businesses expecting higher profits over the next year. Inflation and corporate taxation remain the primary concerns, reflecting the challenging trading environment.

The Chamber has highlighted the potential impact of upcoming legislation, urging changes to the Employment Rights Bill to reduce administrative burdens and associated costs for companies. Firms are seeking clarity and support ahead of the Autumn Budget on 26 November, stressing the importance of avoiding additional tax pressures.

Businesses in the region are contending with sustained operational and financial strain, and the latest GDP figures underscore the need for policy measures that prioritise firm resilience and cost management.

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