Utility and infrastructure service provider takes 10,000 sq ft at Derby business park

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Utility and infrastructure service provider takes 10,000 sq ft at Derby business park
Network Plus has relocated to new offices at Brunel House, within London & Continental Railways’ RTC Business Park, Derby. The business has taken over 10,000 sq ft of modern, open plan accommodation, which benefits from on-site facilities within the business park, including a refurbished campus, restaurant/catering facility and a variety of conference rooms. Network Plus delivers essential utility and infrastructure services for the UK’s major providers of gas, power, telecoms, transport, water and waste water. Steve Squire, executive director at Network Plus, said: “Choosing the right location was the first step. We sought an address that was not simply a place to work, but one that suited the needs of our staff. The search took us through numerous neighbourhoods, each with their own unique characteristics. “Eventually, we found a building that resonated with our needs and had the additional facilities to make the workplace an enjoyable and comfortable experience.” Darran Severn, director at FHP Property Consultants, said: “Pleasingly, there has been good activity within the office sector across Derby this year, and this is one of a number of office lettings over 10,000ft2. “As a result there is a limited availability of space particularly over 5,000ft². We are continuing to see businesses relocate to better quality office space that can boost creativity, collaboration and employee wellbeing.”

Healthcare equipment supplier faces financial collapse, risks service disruption

April Lara
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Healthcare equipment supplier faces financial collapse, risks service disruption

NRS Healthcare, a significant supplier of home healthcare equipment across England and Northern Ireland, is reportedly on the verge of insolvency. The company, which works with local councils and the NHS, could run out of cash by the end of the week, potentially disrupting services for vulnerable patients.

Local authorities, particularly in southeast England, have expressed concerns about the potential impact, including the risk to patient safety and the ability to meet legal obligations to provide community support. The company supplies critical equipment such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, and fall-monitoring devices, and serves as a key partner for about 40% of healthcare equipment deliveries in England.

The firm has faced several challenges, including a costly cyberattack and financial strain from unprofitable contracts. Rising inflation and increasing operational costs, including national insurance contributions, have compounded the situation. While NRS has begun transferring services to alternative suppliers, local authorities are working to mitigate any disruption by seeking temporary solutions. A government spokesperson confirmed that they are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with partners to ensure continuity of care.

Just 2 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025!

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Just 2 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025!
With only two weeks remaining until nominations close for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, ensure to submit your entries for the 10th annual celebration of the property and construction industry by Friday 15th August. The Bricks shine a light on the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes. Take this chance to showcase exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as prestige developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes. It’s completely free to enter and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony.

To make a nomination for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, please click here, or on the category headings below.

Categories include: All finalists will have the chance to take home the Overall Winner award, which this year comes with a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

A glittering awards ceremony revealing winners will take place on Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, also offering the perfect opportunity to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region. The event will additionally feature Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker.
Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, click here to secure yours. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region. New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                                          

To be held at:

Wavensmere scoops two City Heritage Awards for Derby’s Nightingale Quarter restoration

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Wavensmere scoops two City Heritage Awards for Derby’s Nightingale Quarter restoration
Wavensmere Homes has been awarded two George Rennie City Heritage Awards for the restoration works at its £175m Nightingale Quarter by Derby’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee. The annual recognition made by the Conservation Area Advisory Committee is in memory of the services of the former long standing Conservation Officer for Derby City, Mr George Rennie. All developments that take place within Derby’s Conservation Areas – or if they involve buildings on the Statutory or Local Lists – are eligible. Entries are assessed on the design, selection and use of materials, the overall execution and standard of craftsmanship, the project’s harmony with the street or its surroundings, and whether it enhances a Conservation Area, or a Listed or Locally Listed building. Wavensmere’s restoration of the two Pepperpot towers at the front of the 18.5-acre Nightingale Quarter scheme, on London Road picked up the first award, presented by Councillor Ajit Atwal, the Mayor of the City of Derby for 2025-26. Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: “The transformation of the Nightingale Quarter, and the restoration of the two Pepperpot towers, has breathed new life into our city centre whilst honouring Derby’s proud heritage. “Wavensmere has carried out incredible work to turn what was once a derelict site into a thriving community hub which has been carefully restored, and I’m thrilled that they have been awarded two George Rennie City Heritage Awards. “These awards reflect our mission of transforming Derby’s city centre whilst honouring its heritage. Together, with our partners, we are creating a city that we can all be proud of for our community.” Paul McLocklin, Chair of Derby’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee, said: “These impressive buildings were part of the former Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, are locally listed and very distinct. “The external appearance of these characterful and locally distinct buildings has been transformed by careful repair of their roofs and masonry, so they now make a positive impact on the surrounding area and street scene. There is now The Pepperpot restaurant in one with a high quality glazed extension, while the other has been converted to a gym.” The second award was also presented to Wavensmere for the relocation of the Grade II Listed Queen Victoria Statue and meticulous repairs to the original stone boundary wall to the site. The works also included careful relocation of the granite base and bronze statue and intricate repairs and lime mortar repointing to the stone walls. Ben Clarke, Technical Director for Wavensmere Homes, said: “We are honoured that our design focus and investment into the restoration of the original DRI relics has been recognised by Derby City Council’s Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee. “The historic significance and beauty of the two pepperpots are the pièce de resistance of the Nightingale Quarter community, which is now home to around 1,500 people. “Taking pride of place in front of The Pepperpot restaurant is the Queen Victoria statue, which was erected in 1906 and unveiled by King Edward VII, commemorating her official opening of the former Derbyshire Royal Infirmary in 1894. This is the only statue honouring her 63-year reign across the whole of Derbyshire and is a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Victorian era.” The 18.5-acre redundant 19th Century DRI hospital site was mostly demolished and had lain derelict for a decade, before Wavensmere Homes took ownership in 2019. The regeneration specialist commenced construction in 2020 and is now in the final phases of delivering 125 houses, 800 apartments, an interactive community garden in partnership with Down to Earth Derby, The Pepperpot restaurant, residents’ gym, children’s play area and an expansive co-working facility.

Local commuters welcome upgrades to Castle Line

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Local commuters welcome upgrades to Castle Line
Commuters travelling between Nottingham, Newark and Lincoln have given their support for proposed upgrades to the Castle Line that would see faster trains along the route. The route is a critical east-west link between Nottingham and Lincoln, serving a number of urban and rural areas. The line plays a critical role in connecting suburban and rural communities with the cities on either end of the line. But currently, only 10% of trips between these two cities are made by train. The proposed upgrades, put forward to the Department for Transport by Midlands Connect, aim to increase train speeds along the route from a typical 50mph to 75mph, improving journey times, making rail travel more attractive and reducing reliance on cars. Midlands Connect say that by improving connectivity along the route, the Castle Line could drive economic development, promote more sustainable travel and foster social mobility along the route, helping to address areas of deprivation. It is estimated that the project would cost £18 million and deliver a £2 return in regional benefits for every £1 invested. Midlands Connect recently visited platforms on the route and spoke with commuters at rush hour about the proposed upgrades and how they would be impacted. James Naish, MP for Rushcliffe and chair of the East Midlands All Party Political Group, said: “I strongly support Midlands Connect’s outline business case for funding to improve the Castle Line between Nottingham and Lincoln, allowing for faster and more frequent trains along the route. The Castle Line is a critical local line, connecting many suburban and rural communities to jobs, services, and opportunities in both major cities. “Nottingham and Lincoln are fantastic cities, homes to a diverse range of businesses and excellent universities. By better connecting them to the local communities in between, we can help to improve social mobility and drive forwards economic growth while promoting more sustainable transport choices. “I fully back this proposal.” Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said: “Improvements to this corridor between Nottingham and Lincoln will make life easier for businesses, communities, and visitors to this area. The scheme will tackle the slow and infrequent rail services which have resulted in relatively few journeys being made by train. “The need for sustainable transport solutions is greater than ever before. This project represents the first step in attracting more passengers to use the trains, to allow further improvements in the future. “Midlands Connect is committed to making the case for this strategic investment to boost the economy in the Midlands and improve links between these two great cities.” Commuters raised concerns that the current rail provision between Lincoln and Nottingham is presenting a challenge to accessing employment across both cities. Midlands Connect has said that the improvements would help to increase access to jobs and address social mobility in the rural and suburban locations along the route. Midlands Connect continue to champion the upgrades to the line, with commuters along the route echoing the sentiment of the local tourism industry who also backed the proposals in October 2024.

Estate agency relocates in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market

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Estate agency relocates in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market
An independent Nottingham estate agency is relocating as part of its continued growth plans. Walton & Allen has secured new premises at 35-37 St Mary’s Gate, in the heart of Nottingham’s historic Lace Market district. The move sees the agency take on 1,820 sq ft of open-plan first-floor office space in a prominent character building. The deal was brokered by Thomas Szymkiw, head of agency at NG Chartered Surveyors, who represented the landlord in the transaction. Thomas said: “Walton & Allen’s relocation not only gives the team room to grow but places them in a location steeped in history, close to key amenities and within walking distance of Nottingham’s business community. “This is a fantastic letting for both parties. Walton & Allen is an ambitious and growing estate agency, and 35-37 St Mary’s Gate provides the perfect platform for their next chapter. We’re delighted to have helped facilitate this move and wish Walton & Allen every success in their new home. “Walton & Allen’s move is further evidence of the continued demand for high-quality, flexible office space in Nottingham’s core districts.” Philip Westin-Hardy of New West Chartered Surveyors acted for Walton & Allen in securing the new lease. He said: “We were pleased to advise long-standing clients in securing a new city centre base in the heart of the Lace Market. “The building has the character and blend of amenities we were looking for with open plan space and decent natural light. We wish the clients well in the building and it was also close to their former home so helping in staff and client retention.”

Business Gateway Growth Hub partners with Government to boost access to support for local businesses

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Business Gateway Growth Hub partners with Government to boost access to support for local businesses
The Business Gateway Growth Hub has welcomed a new partnership with the Government as part of its Business Growth Service. The Growth Hub, operating across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, is part of the new service – which is led by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). The national service is designed to make it easier for businesses across the UK to locate and access the support they need to start, grow and succeed. It links businesses with free, expert and impartial advice – including local support through regional growth hubs across England. The new Business Growth Service addresses feedback from businesses that support has previously been difficult to navigate, by connecting support from the UK Government with the vital services also delivered through local partners. Phoebe Dawson, director of business skills, Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Partnership, is responsible for the Business Gateway Growth Hub. She said: “The Business Growth Service will offer businesses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland seamless access to both local and national support. “This new collaboration will ensure businesses in our region can easily find the right help to start up, grow, and also consider routes to international trade – as and when they need it.” The Business Gateway Growth Hub will continue to provide personalised support to businesses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. But it will also be able to connect users with wider government resources through the new, integrated system provided by the Business Growth Service. Dr Yasin El Ashrafi BEM, managing director of Leicester-based HQ Recording and HQ CAN CIC, said: “Our area has some of the most talented and diverse entrepreneurs in the country and accessing the right support can help them to thrive. “This new service makes it easier for local businesses to get that support, unlock their full potential, and help to grow our local economy.”

Build Manager nears completion on bespoke office development for fire safety group

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Build Manager nears completion on bespoke office development for fire safety group
Lincolnshire-based construction firm Build Manager is nearing handover on a bespoke, 4,000 sq ft, two-storey office development for a specialist fire safety, risk management consultancy and training provider. With completion around four weeks away, the project in Saxilby is starting to take shape, with IFI Group’s new signage now installed and landscaping starting to bring the building to life. Inside, M&E, plastering, and other finishing trades are working hard, keeping up momentum and quality. Matthew Jones, co-founder at Build Manager, gave thanks to subcontractors and supply chain partners for their hard work and attention to detail. He shared: “Together we are making this a project we can be proud of. Another few weeks and we’ll be handing over a fantastic new space for a growing local business.” Working alongside Build Manager are AMS Build Group Ltd, Allen Signs Ltd, West Lindsey Landscapes Limited, NAVE Plumbing & Heating LTD, GRS Electrical Services Ltd, SBR Plastering and Drylining Limited, LK2, William Saunders, UDCS Ltd, B C Roofing and Kole Architectural. Build Manager was launched just over a year ago with a focus on upfront commercial viability advice and streamlined, transparent project delivery. Founded by Lincolnshire-based construction professionals Matthew Jones and Ben Taylor, the pair have worked in management for a number of local main-contractors, setting up on their own after spotting a gap in the market for their services. Matthew and Ben have been involved in many notable projects in and around the county, including £2.2m new build commercial units (60,000 sq ft) at Discovery Park on Whisby Road – North Hykeham, the £3m renovation of Lawress Hall for the University of Lincoln, and the new £4.5m Community Ward at John Coupland Hospital in Gainsborough. Winning the IFI Group contract marked the company’s first large-scale commercial development and a strong close to year one. As the office build nears completion, Build Manager is inviting other local businesses considering new developments or construction work to reach out for some free upfront advice and viability studies. Matthew added: “Now we are around four weeks away from completion on this project, we are keen to support other local businesses with growth either via new build or refurbishment.” Local businesses can contact Build Manager at info@build-manager.co.uk or find out more at www.build-manager.co.uk.

Cyber skills shortage threatens UK businesses’ digital security

April Lara
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Cyber skills shortage threatens UK businesses’ digital security

The UK’s cybersecurity workforce is dangerously under-resourced, leaving businesses vulnerable to increasing cyber threats. As the digital economy grows, a mismatch between the country’s training systems and the demands of modern cybersecurity is becoming more evident. Industry experts are warning that outdated education frameworks are ill-equipped to prepare professionals for the sophisticated challenges posed by today’s cyber risks.

A new white paper calls for urgent reform to address the severe shortage of skilled professionals in the sector. It highlights that the UK’s fragmented training systems and lack of coordinated approach are major barriers to securing a robust cybersecurity workforce. As cyber threats escalate, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the country faces a growing gap in the talent required to protect its digital infrastructure.

The government is being urged to take immediate action to overhaul the cybersecurity skills pipeline. Key recommendations include the establishment of a comprehensive cybersecurity skills taxonomy, which would offer clarity around role definitions and career pathways. This would not only provide a consistent approach to recruitment and training but also ensure a better alignment between the skills required by businesses and the qualifications offered by educational institutions.

Experts stress that a cohesive national strategy is needed to create a sustainable, inclusive workforce. Without such a framework, the UK risks compromising its position as a leader in the global digital economy, with businesses left exposed to more frequent and severe cyber attacks.

Government’s Small Business Strategy offers positive steps, but further support is needed

April Lara
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Government’s Small Business Strategy offers positive steps, but further support is needed

The government’s new Small Business Strategy introduces several initiatives aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by small businesses, though further support is needed to address rising costs.

The strategy focuses on addressing late payments by introducing stricter payment terms, mandatory interest on overdue invoices, and penalties for companies with chronic late payment issues. It also promises to boost access to finance with a £3bn increase to the British Business Bank and the provision of 69,000 start-up loans. There is an emphasis on supporting exports with an additional £20bn capacity for UK Export Finance.

A new Business Growth Service is being introduced to help companies access essential support and advice, while regulatory burdens will be reduced with a 25% cut in administrative costs. Further investment in skills development has been allocated, including £1.2bn annually to fund digital skills development and “digital adoption pilots” for businesses. The strategy also outlines the modernisation of tax and customs processes through the use of AI tools to reduce errors. Planning rules for smaller sites will also be simplified to assist business growth.

The East Midlands Chamber has welcomed these measures but urged the government to tackle ongoing challenges, including inflation and staffing costs, which continue to affect small businesses. A recent Chamber survey found that nearly a third of East Midlands firms have faced worsened cash flow, highlighting the importance of the new focus on late payments.

However, ongoing issues like a skills shortage and high inflation need addressing to fully unlock business growth potential. Many businesses are also concerned about the impact of corporate taxes and rising costs. As part of their call to action, the Chamber urged that the government listen to the sector’s needs and ensure that policies do not inadvertently hinder growth.

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