Robbie Bell returns to heating and plumbing sector as new CFO of Highbourne Group

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Robbie Bell returns to heating and plumbing sector as new CFO of Highbourne Group

Northants-based Highbourne Group has appointed Robbie Bell, who spent almost 10 years in a similar role at Screwfix earlier in his career, as its new CFO.

Robbie replaces Interim CFO Harvey Ainley and begins work immediately for the UK leader in the plumbing, heating and renewable energy market.

Highbourne’s brand portfolio includes some of the biggest names in the sector, including City Plumbing, The Bathroom Showroom, PTS, DHS, The Underfloor Heating Store, Plumbworld and PlumbNation.

CEO Dave Evans said: “We are delighted to welcome Robbie Bell to our Senior Leadership Team. We believe he is the perfect appointment as we look to lead industry change and continue to grow our business. Those are things that require an experienced CFO capable of making a big impact, and Robbie brings this.”

Robbie joins from Holland & Barrett, where he was also CFO, having held similar roles at Welcome Break and a number of large retailers.

During his time at Screwfix, he saw trade counters grow from 50 to 600, overseeing sales growth of over £1bn.

He said: “It’s an exciting time to be re-joining the sector and I’m looking forward to supporting Highbourne in their strategic ambitions.

“I have already been impressed by Highbourne’s business plans and by CEO Dave Evans, HIG Capital and the Senior Leadership Team.”

Electrical training specialists expand to Sawley Park

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Electrical training specialists expand to Sawley Park
After a successful six months at Connect Derby’s Marble Hall managed workspace, electrical training specialists Just Electrical Training have expanded to new premises at Sawley Park on Nottingham Road in the city. The company, which was launched in 2016 by Richard Bentley and Sarah Stenson-Bentley, took space at the iconic former Rolls-Royce building on Nightingale Road in October last year. Since then, the company has gone from strength to strength and has now outgrown its accommodation at Marble Hall. Following a sustained period of growth Richard and Sarah realised the business also needed a workshop and classroom space and has now moved to the popular Sawley Park which is home to a diverse range of businesses. Just Electrical Training offers a programme of affordable electrical training courses for anyone who is new to the trade, already in the trade and associated trades. Courses range from electrical installation, inspection and testing to fundamental testing, domestic installer and portable appliance testing. Speaking on the move and the help and support the business has received from Ann Bhatti and her team over the past six months, Richard and Sarah said: “When we joined Connect Derby last year, Marble Hall was the perfect base for us with space that suited our needs in an environment that enabled our business to expand, with a broad range of facilities, including car parking, meeting rooms and on-site café. “The help and support from the Connect Derby team has been first class. We received a great service from the reception team at Marble Hall, who were always on hand to help. “It was a difficult decision to leave, but our new premises at Sawley Park have enabled us to embark on the next phase of our growth plan, which is very exciting.” Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “We are sorry to say goodbye to Richard, Sarah and their team at Just Electrical Training after just six months at Marble Hall, but we are delighted to follow their growth and would like wish them all the best at their new premise at Sawley Park.”

Long-standing manufacturer of leather goods enters administration

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Long-standing manufacturer of leather goods enters administration
Founded over 40 years ago and with its manufacturing facility in Naseby, Northamptonshire, Roma Leather has entered administration. The company manufactured and sold leather accessories including belts to retail customers principally in the UK and USA. Turnover was approximately £1.7m in 2022, with the company employing 33 people. The business was severely impacted by the fall off in high street and online sales which resulted in customers reducing or delaying their demand for the company’s products. Management have explored a range of options to rescue the business, including attempting to sell the business and assets as a going concern. Unfortunately, no party was prepared to acquire the business on that basis. All employees were made redundant prior to the appointment of Tom Straw and Chris Lewis of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP as joint administrators, and the business has ceased trading. Tom Straw, joint administrator at RSM UK, said: “Regrettably this 40-year-old company has been placed into administration despite the efforts of the management team to find a buyer for the business as a going concern. This business failure illustrates the issues facing many UK SMEs in the current challenging economic environment.”

BSP Consulting business development manager shortlisted in Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

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BSP Consulting business development manager shortlisted in Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

The business development manager at East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has been named as a finalist in the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards.

Carrie Booth, who joined the business in 2004 as a junior member of the admin team and now leads the business development side of the operation, has been shortlisted in the Inspirational Leader – Consultant Award.

The awards, which attracted a record breaking number of entries this year, champion the role of women in construction and engineering.

Carl Hilton, Managing Director at BSP Consulting, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Carrie has been shortlisted in these national awards. She puts her heart and soul into creating business opportunities for the team, which has played a key role in helping to make BSP Consulting one of the largest independent civil and structural engineering firms in the East Midlands.

“She is extremely capable, tenacious, dependable and 100% committed to her role. She always delivers, not only for BSP but for the numerous groups she is a member of too.

“This shortlisting is very well deserved and we’re sure that anyone in the construction sector in the East Midlands who knows Carrie will be delighted to hear the news that she is a finalist in the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards 2023.”

The awards, which are run by Construction News and New Civil Engineer, will be presented at the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Conference in London on 4th October.

Carrie Booth, who works across BSP’s offices in Nottingham, Derby and Leicester, said: “I feel very humbled to have been shortlisted in these awards, which turn the spotlight on women working in construction and engineering.

“The shortlist features a list of very talented women from companies working across the construction and engineering sector in the UK and I am honoured to be amongst them.”

Carrie is on the board of directors of construction industry network group Pro-Con Nottingham, regional secretary and a committee member of the East Midlands fbe, a committee member of Women in Construction, and a member of Nottingham, Leicester, Lincoln and Derby Interacts.

Ward partners with EfW specialist Andusia and invests in Net Zero push

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Ward partners with EfW specialist Andusia and invests in Net Zero push

Midlands-based metal recycling and waste management firm, Ward, has signed a new partnership with recovered fuel specialist Andusia that will see more waste diverted from landfill and exported to Europe, where it will be used to create energy.

The partnership will see over 25,000 tonnes per year of residual material from Ward’s materials recovery facility making its way to energy from waste (EfW) plants in Germany.

As part of the agreement, Ward has been working with baling systems specialist Witham Mills to install new baling and wrapping equipment at its Forward site at Ilkeston.

Powered by renewable energy, the move underpins Ward’s ongoing commitment to achieving its Net Zero aim of delivering 100% of materials processed from ending up in landfill.

Ben Stubbs, Operations Manager at Ward, said: “Energy from Waste is becoming pivotal in achieving global Net Zero aims and something we’ve been increasingly focused on, so this partnership demonstrates an ongoing commitment for Ward.

“As a leading waste and recycling specialist, we consistently produce a high-quality product to a tight specification, which is vital for ensuring a reliable RDF supply. In addition, our continuous investment in improving and increasing our waste processing capacity makes us the perfect strategic partner for Andusia.”

Mark Terrell of Andusia said: “We were impressed by Ward’s reputation as a leading waste and recycling specialist and their aim to achieve zero to landfill wherever possible.

“Our organisations are perfectly aligned and Andusia is proud to be supporting Ward’s mission by working together to ensure more waste is recovered and diverted away from landfill and back into the supply chain to create renewable energy.”

Hundreds of jobs on the line at Boots site as manufacturer proposes factory closure

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Hundreds of jobs on the line at Boots site as manufacturer proposes factory closure
Hundreds of jobs are at risk in Nottingham with plans to close a major factory that makes products for Boots. Fareva, which bought BCM (Boots Contract Manufacturing) in 2017, has started consultation with staff at the Thane Road factory in Beeston, according to BBC reports. It is said to follow economic changes associated with political unrest in Europe and the impact of COVID-19 on the business, with production volumes decreasing and leaving spare capacity. Production activities at the D10 factory at the Boots campus are proposed to be transferred to Wales, where 150 new roles would be created at Fareva’s Pontyclun site. Priority will be given to Nottingham staff. Product testing, research and development, commercial and procurement activities will, however, continue to operate out of Nottingham.
Production is to continue in Beeston until 2024, with no redundancies expected to be made until early next year.

MHR wins title of Midlands Family Business of the Year 2023

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MHR wins title of Midlands Family Business of the Year 2023
Nottinghamshire-based HR, payroll, and finance expert, MHR, has been awarded the Midlands Family Business of the Year award, at the 2023 Midlands Family Business Awards. Established in 2010, the Midlands Family Business Awards is an independent, charitable initiative organised by Nottinghamshire family business, The Wilson Organisation. Through the Awards, The Wilson Organisation seeks to celebrate and recognise the success, achievements and innovations of the region’s family run and owned businesses. The winner of The Family Business of the Year award was determined by a panel of appointed, expert, independent judges, including leading figures from the local business community and a representative from a professional standards body, including PwC. The rigorous process included a written submission, as well as an in-person interview with all members of the judging committee. MHR has been owned by the Mills family since 1984 when it was founded by John Mills. Mr Mills still serves as group chairman while his daughter, Jessica Mills, was appointed chairman in 2021 after previously holding various leadership and board positions within the company. Jessica Mills, chairman, MHR, says: “To be recognised as Midlands Family Business of the Year 2023 is an incredibly proud moment for myself, my father and everyone who works at MHR. “It is a testament to our incredible employees and their unrivalled dedication to support our customers and each other. Our teams are filled with passionate individuals who are dedicated to providing the best innovative products and services possible. “We’re incredibly proud to be a family business. This award will give us all a moment to reflect and celebrate on all we have achieved throughout the past 39 years. “Congratulations to all of the winners on the night, and to every nominated business. They have all made a considerable contribution to the health of the Midlands business community.”

Finch Consulting hires functional safety specialist

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Finch Consulting hires functional safety specialist
Leicestershire-based health and safety risk management experts, Finch Consulting, have appointed electrical engineer Jim Creswell. With over 20 years of practical experience, having previously been a military electrical and mechanical draughtsman and more recently focusing on functional safety systems for machinery, Jim will be joining Finch as a senior consultant from his most recent role at Cyan Tec Systems, an automation and robotic solutions company. In his new role, Jim will be building Finch’s functional safety capability and expanding their involvement in laser applications alongside providing client facing training. He has ambitions to progress into the Expert Witness side of the business and represent the company at marketing events once he has settled in. Commenting on his appointment, Jim said: “Although I was not actively looking for another role, I was intrigued when an opportunity to work at Finch presented itself. The team of people at Finch speak the same (technical) language I do and are passionate about a whole range of engineering areas which were of interest to me. “What really made me think that Finch was right for me was the diligence and attention taken to ensure that I was ‘a Finch person’. They took the time to get to know me and I met lots of friendly and welcoming people that make Finch unique.” Andrew Millington, finance director, added: “Functional safety is a strong area of work for us, and we wanted to bolster our ranks to better serve our clients. Jim performed excellently during his interviews, we were really impressed with his ability to communicate and keep calm in high pressure situations.”

UK Anti-Doping relocate to SportPark in Loughborough

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UK Anti-Doping relocate to SportPark in Loughborough
UK Anti-Doping, the national body responsible for creating a UK-wide environment of confidence in clean sport and the global fight against doping in sport, has moved into a new extension opened recently at SportPark, Loughborough University. Workplace consultants Blueprint Interiors has been appointed to fit-out the new space to reflect their brand values and identity. Previously based in London, UK Anti-Doping decided that locating alongside other leading sport bodies at Loughborough University would create the ideal office environment. SportPark is a unique facility that embraces the PassivHaus concept – the only internationally recognised, performance-based energy standard in construction. Commenting on the move, Philip Bunt, COO from UK Anti-Doping, said: “In relocating to SportPark, we are now based in an outstanding, energy efficient base alongside other mission-driven and innovative sports organisations and also co-located with the UK’s leading university for sport. “It is therefore an ideal location to support our future ambitions. Our new base will also enable us to influence athletes and teaching curriculums, work closer with other sports organisations, and attract future talent.” Blueprint Interiors has transformed the new office space to create a space that was fit for purpose in a post covid world. UK Anti-Doping recognised that knowledge workers can get tasks done easily at home but this isolated working style meant colleagues missed out on vital opportunities to collaborate and share knowledge across the team. The new location has room for growth with capacity for over 60 people. Rachel Biddles from Blueprint Interiors said: “In order to be as flexible as possible and meet the individual needs of each member all 24 workstations have rise and fall desks. All meeting rooms have been designed to be multi-functional and highly configurable. “There is also a large town hall space area designed for collaboration. This combination of space planning ensures that whatever work is being done, all colleagues have the resources and space to work at their best.” As a PassivHaus building, sustainability was also a key objective. Working alongside an in-house design team who had set the framework for these key requirements Blueprint Interiors used its previous experience of fitting out other spaces within the University campus to help UK Anti-Doping consider their workspace needs and future proof the design as much as possible ready for anticipated growth in their team.

Works start on new boathouse, restaurant and water sports facilities at Nottinghamshire nature reserve

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Works start on new boathouse, restaurant and water sports facilities at Nottinghamshire nature reserve

Construction works have now begun to deliver a new boathouse, restaurant space and extended visitor car park at Kings Mill Reservoir, a nature reserve in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire.

Approved for planning by Ashfield District Council in February, works have now started on the new extended car park to accommodate the new boathouse building. The construction of the new building is due to start in late summer, with the demolition of the former sailing club taking place later this year.

As well as the restaurant and function space on the first floor, the boathouse building will provide modern, accessible changing facilities for water sports and a meeting/training room on the ground floor.

These facilities will support activities including sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and open water swimming and will allow more residents and visitors to Kings Mill Reservoir the opportunity to access water sports.

The East Midlands-based construction team has been announced as Lindum Group as main contractor, Influence Landscape Planning and Design as landscape architect, BSP Consulting as civil and structural engineer, Gleeds as project management and quantity surveyor, and Player Roberts Bell Architects.

The scheme is part of Ashfield District Council’s £62.6m Towns Fund project, and since submitting the initial planning application, the council has been undertaking surveys and site investigations, including bat surveys, to ensure wildlife is protected and habitats are enhanced by the new facility. The new building will include new bat roosts.

Cllr Samantha Deakin, Executive Lead for Parks and Environmental Services at Ashfield District Council, said: “The plans for Kings Mill Reservoir are extremely exciting. We can’t wait to be able to open up the offer of a variety of great new activities to visitors.

“The location of the new restaurant offering will be a fantastic addition to the reservoir and will bring in even more visitors to Ashfield. I want to reassure residents that the demolition and construction phases of this project will be done sensitively to ensure none of the resident wildlife will be disturbed.”

Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning, said: “This is another milestone for our plans to make Mill Waters one of the top tourist destinations in the East Midlands. We want to hear from clubs or individuals, who are keen to get involved in developing and running water sports activities at the reservoir. Please get in touch with the team if you are interested.”

Newark-based Influence Landscape Planning and Design is the landscape architect on the project. As part of the planning application, Influence provided visual appraisal and comprehensive landscape design to complement the new building.

Kathryn Dunk, principal landscape architect at Influence, said: “Kings Mill Reservoir is a special place where nature and visitors flock. It’s a place for being close to nature, enjoying the surroundings and experiencing the myriad of water sports on offer.

“I’m really pleased that progress is being made to create the new leisure building which will sit alongside the water sports facilities and provide a place to dine and relax. Naturally landscape plays a key part here and we have created designs that responds to the specific character of the reserve, with a naturalistic planting palette of grasses and wildflowers and native Downy Birch trees reaching across the site to the water’s edge.”

As well as the structural design of the new building, Nottingham-based BSP Consulting’s role includes drainage design, featuring permeable car parking based on sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).

BSP Consulting director, Tony Goddard, said: “Given the sensitive water environment of the reservoir, we were keen to provide a sustainable drainage system which improves water quality, controls the flow of water into the reservoir and minimises pollution.

“As a company, BSP is very pleased to be part of the team delivering this scheme at Kings Mill Reservoir which will provide modern, accessible changing and storage facilities for water sports, along with a multi-purpose social space on the ground floor, with a dedicated restaurant on the first floor.”

Lindum Construction manager, Mark Robertson, said: “We are looking forward to getting started on this project, which will result in a superb leisure attraction for local people. The restaurant will be in a fantastic location with views of the water.

“We have a strong pipeline of local subcontractors who will be working on this scheme with us so the council’s investment will continue to circulate within the economy.

“It is good to be working with Ashfield District Council again. Lindum has a delivered several housing schemes for the authority over the past three years and we’ve developed a strong relationship, based on openness, trust and successful delivery of projects.”

The new leisure facilities will complement the expansion of the existing onsite adventure centre, Mill Adventure Base, to include outdoor activities which will be operational later this year.

The works at Kings Mill Reservoir have been procured through the SCAPE Regional Construction framework and all works are due for completion in summer 2024.

Northants housebuilder boss crowned Climate Champion of the Year

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Northants housebuilder boss crowned Climate Champion of the Year

The boss of a Northamptonshire firm said he remains committed to his net zero mission after being crowned Climate Champion of the Year at a national awards ceremony.

Luke Simmons, Managing Director of East Haddon-based housebuilder Cora, scooped the Climate Champion of the Year (North) award at Tuesday’s Unlock Net Zero Live Awards in Manchester.

The inaugural awards ceremony recognised and championed businesses and leaders in the UK housing sector going above and beyond on their journey to decarbonisation.

Judges were impressed by Luke’s work rebranding the business from Barwood Homes, signalling a shift to a profit with purpose model with a key focus on sustainability and a target to become net zero by 2050.

Luke said: “I feel incredibly humbled to have won such a prestigious national award, which I would not have received were it not for the amazing work of my team.

“Everyone at Cora is fully behind our sustainable mission and is committed to helping achieve our decarbonisation goals.

“Together we are setting the standard when it comes to being an environmentally-conscious housebuilder – and are creating amazing places throughout the Midlands in the process with consistently brilliant reviews from our customers.”

The award win comes less than a fortnight after the firm won twice at the SME Northamptonshire Business Awards, including Gold in the Sustainability category.

Steps the business has taken to support the environment include running new compounds off photovoltaic energy, while 96% of all construction waste was recycled in 2022 – equalling 374 tonnes or the equivalent weight of 31 double decker buses.

A supply chain of low-carbon businesses has also been built, alongside a new Grow Local programme that allocates procurement preferences to suppliers and SMEs within a 50-mile radius.

Cora also contributed more than £11,000 towards nature preservation in the last financial year and planted over 9,000 trees and shrubs.

Luke added: “We have already achieved so much as a business, but still have a way to go yet to accomplish our ultimate goals.

“The entire Cora team will continue to innovate, educate and collaborate with our partners and suppliers to make our net zero ambitions a reality.”

885 new homes set for Leicestershire village

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885 new homes set for Leicestershire village

Kirby Muxloe is set for 885 new homes after Blaby District Council’s planning committee resolved to grant outline planning permission at its meeting on 29 June 2023. 

Blaby District Council’s planning committee resolved to approve the scheme by 5 votes to 4. 

Kirby Muxloe is seen as one of the district’s key areas for housing growth due to its close proximity to the city of Leicester. The site represents a housing allocation within the Blaby District Local Plan (Delivery) DPD, identified for ‘at least 750’ new homes.   

The proposal relates to land north of Hinckley Road and incorporates public open space and significant areas of landscaping, plus land reserved for a new primary school. It will make financial contributions towards secondary, special and early years education.

Transport improvements include contributions towards improvements to Desford Cross Road, the A47/Beggars Lane and A47/Kirby Lane junctions and public transport and cycling improvements. There will be other contributions towards community facilities, libraries and health care facilities.  

The application was originally submitted in 2019 but later revised in November 2021 to incorporate additional parcels of land to complete the housing allocation and bringing it further in line with the adopted development plan.   

Richard Edwards, group land and planning director at L&Q Estates Ltd, said: “This decision is the result of much hard work and proactive collaboration with the council. The approved scheme will not only meet the identified housing needs of local people but also makes a significant step towards delivering a much-needed new primary school.” 

Pegasus Group project managed the planning application and environmental statement, led on the design and masterplanning of the scheme, landscape and visual assessment work and advised on matters of heritage and archaeology.   

Associate planner, Georgine Doyle, said: “As with any proposal of this scale, there have been potential impacts to work through and we have committed to working closely with the council throughout the determination period to address these and to secure a positive recommendation and approval at committee.  

“The scheme will make a huge contribution towards meeting housing needs in the district and beyond which, in the current climate, is something to be celebrated.” 

As part of Pegasus Group’s multidisciplinary service for L&Q Estates, James Fairweather (Associate Urban Designer) led the design and masterplanning team from initial concept through to the masterplan.

James said: “The residential areas proposed are balanced out by an extensive network of public open spaces, parks and play areas for the benefit of the new community. We will retain a high proportion of the existing trees and hedgerows, and provide large areas for new planting to flourish, creating an attractive place to live.  

“We have worked collaboratively for a number of years to deliver a high-quality masterplan that will benefit future residents for generations to come. The design is focused on a series of linked public open spaces that create safe walking and cycling routes around the site and lots of green spaces for children and adults to enjoy.”  

Pegasus Group worked with transport and environmental consultant Vectos, noise and air quality expert M-EC Consulting and ecological and agricultural expert CSA Environmental.  

Survey shows growing contribution of manufacturing to East Midlands economy

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Survey shows growing contribution of manufacturing to East Midlands economy
A new report out today from Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP shows that manufacturing is growing in importance to the success of the East Midlands economy, with the sector accounting for 16.4% of the region’s economy in 2022 (an increase from 15.9% in 2021), way above the national average of 10%. The report also shows an increase in 7,000 jobs in manufacturing in 2022 compared to 2021, up to 265,000. According to the report, which analyses the contribution of manufacturing to the East Midlands economy, the East Midlands was also the best performing UK area in terms of increasing its output in the last twelve months according to Make UK and BDO data. This is largely down to the strong recovery in the aerospace and automotive sectors which were initially slower to recover from the pandemic. Three subsectors account for almost half of manufacturing in the East Midlands. Food and drink remains the biggest manufacturing sector in the region accounting for almost a fifth of output (19.1%), followed by transport equipment (14.6%) and rubber and plastics (11.5%). The East Midlands also continues to be a strong export performer, accounting for 7% of total UK manufacturing exports, a slight increase from 6% in 2021. The EU is the region’s main export destination where its dependence has decreased (49% from 51%) followed by Asia & Oceania, which at 25% (up from 22%) is a significantly higher exposure than other UK regions. North America is the third largest market, accounting for 14% of the region’s exports. Chris Corkan, regional manager for Make UK in the Midlands, said: “Industry remains critical to the growth of the East Midlands economy, providing high value, high skill jobs and aiding the process of levelling up. To build on this position we need a national industrial strategy which encompasses local growth strategies which fit with the priorities and strengths of the region including infrastructure, innovation and skills in particular.” Jon Gilpin, head of manufacturing at BDO in the Midlands, added: “The growth in manufacturing output and jobs that we’ve seen in the East Midlands over the last year is testament to the resilience of the sector across the region. “Local manufacturing companies have had to overcome the multiple challenges thrown up by Brexit, shortages in skilled labour, pandemic-related supply chain delays and the huge energy price rises we have seen following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. “While everyone is hoping for some respite, the headwinds show no sign of abating. With high inflation and interest rates continuing to rise, manufacturers will need to remain alert, responsive and resilient in the face of any future geopolitical or economic shocks.”

Reward the efforts of your team and showcase your achievements at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023

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Reward the efforts of your team and showcase your achievements at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023
Providing the perfect forum to showcase your business’s achievements, enter the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 NOW – ahead of nominations closing on Thursday 31 August. The prestigious event, organised by East Midlands Business Link Magazine, is an independent awards and publicity programme recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. The annual awards and networking event draws leaders from throughout the East Midlands and is the ideal way for businesses to promote themselves and those they work with. Indeed winning one of these awards will add considerably to a company’s or individual’s brand and enhance their commercial reach significantly. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 28 September, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening that will also provide plenty of time to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region. Jon Marston, Managing Director of Building East Midlands, Galliford Try Construction, who took home three awards at the 2022 event, said: “We are immensely proud of the work that has taken place at Broad Marsh car park, and the recognition it has received at the East Midlands Brick Awards is just reward for the efforts of the team. I congratulate all those involved for their achievement in winning these three awards.” To nominate your (or another) business/development for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023, please click on a category link below or visit this page:
The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 will also be awarded a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.
Find out who last year’s winners were here.

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023 – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 28 September 2023 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm. Connect with local decision makers over canapés and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place Marketing at Leicester City Council, our keynote speaker. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:                                                             To be held at:

All Corby Towns Fund projects given the green light by Government

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All Corby Towns Fund projects given the green light by Government
Final approvals have been given by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) for Corby’s remaining two projects in the Towns Fund – the train station to town centre link road and Smart and Connected Corby. Together with two previously approved projects, the four projects will bring many benefits to the town and surrounding area:
  • The Corby 6th Form College
  • Multi-use building
  • Train station to Town centre link road
  • Smart and Connected Corby
The last two projects in the list have now been given the formal, final go ahead to proceed by central Government. They will further add to the positive impact the overall Towns Fund project will have on the local economy and assist with the future viability of the town centre and diversify the uses of the area. The news comes as work is well underway on the new Corby 6th Form, based in Chisholm House, and will be open to students from September 2023, run by the Bedford College Group. The new college will accommodate 339 students by 2025/26 and be capable of welcoming over 660 students per academic year to study in this newly refurbished building in the heart of Corby. Also located in the town centre will be the Multi-use building, which when open will provide accommodation for a modern Cultural and Community Hub, as well as meet the identified demand for creative, media and third sector uses. Once complete, Oakley Road will provide attractive and safe pedestrian/cycle connections between the town centre and the railway station through the Train Station to Town Centre – link road project. It will connect the station directly with the Chisholm House and Multi-use Building project area, making a significant contribution to the active healthy travel agenda and help to reduce congestion and emissions across Corby. Finally, the Smart and Connected Corby project will establish Corby as a ‘smart and green’ town centre, allowing for monitoring and management of the flow of pedestrians, cyclist and motorists to assess the impact of interventions and help as the town’s population increases. Cllr David Brackenbury, the council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “It is great news that we have been given the green light for all four of these fantastic projects, which will help enable Corby to grow and diversify. “The new 6th Form college will help support the education and develop the skills of our younger residents, whilst the multi-use building will provide a community and cultural hub and the final two projects will improve the local infrastructure and assist in future proofing the town. “I would like to also take this opportunity to thank the Officers who have been working extremely hard on developing these exciting projects.” Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council, said: “The £19.9m of funding we were allocated has to be used on the four identified projects, which will bring numerous benefits to the area, so I am pleased that Government has given us the final go ahead and we will be able to continue to move forward with these important projects.”

Space Park Leicester and University make space sustainability commitment

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Space Park Leicester and University make space sustainability commitment
Space Park Leicester and the University of Leicester have joined organisations in industry and academia in committing to the sustainable use of space. The initiative brings together industry, academia, government stakeholders and international bodies to ensure that space continues to support the environmental, economic and scientific interests of future generations. The University is one of over 112 signatories of the Memorandum of Principles for Space Sustainability, a UK initiative linked to the UN Secure World Foundation, which will seek to promote and facilitate understanding of outer space activities. Those principles will be echoed in the Astra Carta, a framework launched on 28 June by the Sustainable Markets Initiative. It builds on the foundation of the Terra Carta to shape a future of responsible and sustainable space exploration, development, and cooperation. The launch of the Astra Carta framework brings to reality a vision for space sustainability outlined by His Majesty King Charles III, in his previous role as Prince of Wales, at the Space Sustainability Summit in 2022. The launch of the Astra Carta coincides with a ministerial roundtable with George Freeman, Minister of State in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and symposium on Space Sustainability at the Royal Society attended by Professor Richard Ambrosi, Executive Director of Space Park Leicester. He also attended a Royal Reception in support of sustainability in space, where King Charles was presented with the Memorandum of Principles and officially launched the Astra Carta. Professor Richard Ambrosi, Executive Director of Space Park Leicester, said: “Space presents a range of exciting opportunities, but it is imperative that we ensure that space continues to support the environmental, economic and scientific interests of future generations. There is also an important cross disciplinary aspect to this initiative since it aggregates science, technology, engineering, law, policy, finance and insurance sectors. “As part of our growing collaboration with Reef Group, who will also be present for this event, we are working collaboratively on addressing global challenges as well as space sustainability challenges. At Space Park Leicester, we’re delighted to be part of this initiative and to work with the community to address this challenge. “It is an honour and privilege to be invited to attend the round table with Minister, the Symposium and to attend the launch of the Astra Carta by His Majesty King Charles III.” The Secure World Foundation defines space sustainability as: “Ensuring that all humanity can continue to use outer space for peaceful purposes and socioeconomic benefit now and in the long term.” The signatories to the Memorandum of Principles seek to promote and facilitate international cooperation and understanding of the long-term sustainability of outer space activities, and through these efforts establish transparent Space Sustainability Principles of responsible behaviour, based on, expanding and developing the initial principles. The Memorandum of Principles for Space Sustainability has been signed on behalf of the University of Leicester by President and Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nishan Canagarajah. Professor Canagarajah said: “We are committed to the betterment of future generations and building a more sustainable world – here on our own planet and in new frontiers beyond. The potential that space affords is enormous. Leicester is proud to be among the signatories to the Memorandum of Principles for Space Sustainability and to make a commitment to use it responsibly.”

100,000 sq ft industrial unit let in Burton

Tess Egginton
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100,000 sq ft industrial unit let in Burton
Rushton Hickman have completed the letting of 100,596 sq ft of industrial/warehouse space at the brand-new Quintus development at Branston Locks, Burton alongside joint agents JLL and Cushman and Wakefield. The unit in question that was let was Unit 5 and it benefitted from 10 Loading docks, 9 EV charging spaces, 4 Level access doors and 86 car parking spaces. Graham Bancroft, director of Rushton Hickman, said: “The Quintus development has been a major success for the area and has provided much needed warehousing and logistics space. Our clients speculatively built the units due to their confidence in both the market and also the quality of build that they were going to construct. “The location of the development fronting the A38 and providing fantastic road communications to the motorway networks meant that there was always going to be strong interest from logistic based businesses which has proved to be the case here again.”

Pendragon chairman steps down “to pursue other interests”

Tess Egginton
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Pendragon chairman steps down “to pursue other interests”

The non-executive chairman of Pendragon, Ian Filby, is set to step down from his position “to pursue other interests.”

The Nomination Committee, led by senior independent director Dietmar Exler, will now commence the process to identify and appoint Ian’s successor, and is being supported by external consultants.

Ian will continue in his role at the car retailer until this process is complete.   

Dietmar Exler, senior independent director, said: “On behalf of the Board, we thank Ian for his service to Pendragon and wish him all the best for the future.”

Ian Filby, non-executive chairman, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Board members, the leadership team and, most importantly, our associates for their commitment to the company and passion for their work.

“I am proud of the progress that has been made both strategically and financially by the leadership team and the stability that this has created. I wish them every success in the future.”

New MD appointed at Lawson-West Solicitors

Tess Egginton
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New MD appointed at Lawson-West Solicitors
Lawson-West Solicitors has appointed existing Board director, Vicky Jones, as the firm’s Managing Director. Vicky Jones, former head of the Probate, Wills and Trusts team at the Leicestershire law firm, has been an active Board member for many years with Associate Solicitor Phoebe Skarlatos taking over the running of that department in April 2022. As well as Managing Director, Vicky who joined the firm in 1997, is a STEP-qualified Wills and Probate solicitor and continues to advise Lawson-West clients on their Wills and helping clients through the Probate process. Vicky’s appointment and promotion to Managing Director sees existing MD and locally well-known commercial solicitor, David Heys, starting a new life as a specialist consultant helping business owners grow their businesses. Lawson-West will be David’s first client and he will provide invaluable strategic advice to the Board and commercial insight in this new role. The firm’s Board of decision-making directors is made up of Vicky Jones (MD) and fellow directors Ashley Hunt, Vaishali Thakerar, Rebecca Beswick and John Stables (non-executive Director). In 2016 David Heys was appointed Lawson-West’s first Managing Director having joined the firm as head of commercial and residential property in 2004. He became a partner in 2007 and grew and led the commercial arm of the practice at Lawson-West until 2019. In recent years the firm’s prosperity has gone from strength to strength, predicting a £4.6m turnover this financial year. David’s tenure has seen the firm building a solid foundation of clients, infrastructure, systems and IT security, new offices in Meridian Business Park in Leicester and Roman Way in Market Harborough, profitable operations and nearly 70 staff. Vicky Jones said: “Having been with Lawson-West since 1997, I have seen a lot of changes from early offices in traditional high street premises at Uppingham Road, Market Harborough and Wigston and all the activities of the firm then and how our firm has grown and developed to be the firm it is today with accessible business locations and modern facilities. “I’m familiar with and proud of the quality legal services we provide in commercial and property, conveyancing, dispute resolution, employment, family law, probate, wills and trusts. “I’m delighted to be appointed as Managing Director of Lawson-West Solicitors leading an extremely strong Board with ambitious plans and highly talented Heads of Department, so you can be sure Lawson-West will continue to grow and prosper. “We operate a successful legal business, offering clients a law firm that provides quality legal advice, exceptional client service standards and we value success for all our clients and their legal and resolution needs.” David Heys, departing MD, said: “I am incredibly proud to have been part of Lawson-West.   I am a problem solver and I love helping people, whether they are clients I am helping to achieve their business dream and aspirations or coaching and mentoring colleagues to achieve their full potential. “Lawson-West is unique amongst its competitors because we are not a conventional law firm of fusty old lawyers. From top to bottom our staff are focused on helping clients and, more importantly, supporting each other so that clients get our best possible service and this is reflected in client feedback on our service-focused approach and depth of care given by our staff. “Excellence in client service is Lawson-West’s top priority and sets us apart from our competitors. My departure is another example of our careful strategic planning and I’m delighted to hand the reigns over to my friend and fellow director Vicky Jones, a dedicated, highly competent and exemplary lawyer and leader who has had an amazing 26-year career at Lawson-West having worked her way up through the firm. “All of the directors love working with her and I know great things will come of her appointment.”

Firms urged to inspire young people to explore careers in manufacturing, engineering, and construction

Tess Egginton
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Firms urged to inspire young people to explore careers in manufacturing, engineering, and construction
A campaign to inspire young people into manufacturing, engineering, and construction careers is set to return to Chesterfield this November. Destination Chesterfield is calling upon local companies to get involved in the successful Made in Chesterfield scheme, which enables school pupils to get an up-close and personal look at what a career in these key sectors can offer. The annual campaign, which will run during November and December 2023, is now in its ninth year. It aims to help reduce the skills gap in some of the town’s most valuable industries, to ensure local people and businesses can continue to thrive in the future. Made in Chesterfield is organised by Destination Chesterfield, alongside Direct Education Business Partnership, and supported by Chesterfield College Group, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd and NatWest. Through the project, thousands of young people have had the chance to explore the wide range of rewarding careers available in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) sectors. Since the campaign’s inception in 2014, more than 3,500 young people from schools have spent time in the area’s manufacturing, engineering, and construction businesses. Headline sponsor of the project, Chesterfield College Group has also seen an increase in the number of students getting involved in STEM-related subjects since the launch of the campaign. Julie Richards, CEO of Chesterfield College Group, said: “Having supported Made in Chesterfield consistently over the past few years I’ve seen the real impact the initiative has for the next generation engineering and construction workforce. “As we position ourselves as a reliable conduit between student and employer to enable the opportunities and inspiration for successful future careers, supporting this initiative is something we feel passionate about. “With work on our new cutting-edge Engineering, Manufacturing and Science Centre due to commence this year and our involvement with hugely impactful programmes such as the Staveley Construction Skills Hub, Made in Chesterfield further solidifies our commitment to ensuring the young people we serve have access to the very best opportunities in their chosen engineering and/or construction career.” Ivan Fomin, Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “There is no doubt that we are experiencing a skills gap in manufacturing, caused by an ageing workforce. Therefore, it has never been more important to generate the future pipeline of talent to ensure our local manufacturing and engineering firms can continue to grow. “Being able to offer these tours and interact with young people on a face-to-face basis provides them with an invaluable insight into the exciting potential and scope for growth that a career in STEM can offer.” Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said: “Made in Chesterfield is a fantastic programme that creates an opportunity for businesses to interact with young people and help them to make informed choices about their future. “We’re proud to support this programme because helping young people find the right path for them guarantees that they can have a great career in our borough but it also helps employers ensure that the future workforce is developing the skills that they will need. “Together this will help improve the quality of life for residents whilst also creating a thriving local economy with opportunities for everyone.” Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), added: “DEBP are pleased to be able to continue supporting the Made in Chesterfield initiative; enabling space for employers and young people to come together. “Made in Chesterfield provides meaningful experiences for learners to increase their awareness of local opportunities, and for employers to showcase their businesses and meet potential future employees.”
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