New senior associate for Geldards’ Derby commercial property team
Law firm Geldards is strengthening its Commercial Property team in Derby with the appointment of senior associate Chloe Buxton.
Joining the team from Flint Bishop, where she practised for the past four years, Chloe brings to the team specialist experience in commercial and residential property development and finance.
Chloe completed her law degree at the University of Nottingham and qualified as a solicitor in 2016. She honed her specialism in Commercial Property gaining experience with a number of law firms in the East Midlands before joining Geldards.
On joining the team Chloe says: “I am thrilled to be joining the Commercial Property team at Geldards. It’s a great opportunity for me to work with such a respected team and I am looking forward to getting to know the clients.”
Graham Banks, partner & head of Derby Property team says: “It’s been a really busy year for the team, and we have completed some landmark deals, so it is a great time for Chloe to be joining. We look forward to her skills complementing and enhancing our talented team and are looking forward to what next year brings.”
Top 3 features of a successful entrepreneur
If you’re an entrepreneur, you already know how difficult this role can be at times. Not everyone is cut out to succeed in this profession, some people just don’t have what it takes. It’s a harsh truth, but a truth nonetheless. So what are the characteristics and personality traits of an entrepreneur exactly? Let’s find out!
Not Being Afraid of Asking for Help
An entrepreneur is always looking for solutions. To be successful, you can’t give up easily. That’s why, if faced with a task they can’t deal with, a good entrepreneur asks for support. A great option, in this case, is reaching out to a business coach for entrepreneurs like Jake Smolarek. A professional like that will be able to help you get a fresh perspective. Often, advice from someone else is exactly what you need to move on to a new project. That’s why it’s such a great way of dealing with slumps and any type of issues. A coach with experience will know what you need, so the collaboration will surely be beneficial for you.Knowing That Failure Is a Part of the Process
As an entrepreneur, you’re someone who has their own ideas and is not afraid to make them a reality. But along the way, there are always some problems and matters that require a certain amount of time to get sorted out. Nothing’s ever only easy. That’s why a successful entrepreneur, that’s on their way to a great career, is well aware of that. More so, an entrepreneur is not afraid of challenges, treats them as just another step on their way. Failure is an integral part of everything, it’s how you deal with it that decides your fate.Taking Risks and Having Bold Ideas
Successful entrepreneurs can’t be just like everyone else, they have to be willing to implement change. Their ideas can’t be something boring or already well known – they have to be innovative and one of a kind. Being an entrepreneur means being creative and brave, as you have to constantly be coming up with new ideas and overcome hurdles. You can’t be too cautious, taking risks is what’s ultimately going to bring you success, even if it may bring some trouble too. Nothing is certain, when you’re an entrepreneur, a lot of things have to be decided by you. That’s why you have to be confident but also smart and always on your toes. Think outside the box. Only by considering even the most unconventional options will you be able to truly choose the best one.Final Tips
Entrepreneurs are highly creative and bold people. To become a successful one, you have to have certain features. Not everyone could be satisfied or happy with that job, so it’s only advisable for individuals who are incredibly resilient to try their luck in this profession. As an entrepreneur, it’s all about your ideas and your actions, unlike a typical office job. You have to be prepared for the challenges and, if needed, ask for help. A good entrepreneur knows that this job isn’t easy but can be rewarding if you try hard enough and aren’t afraid of unconventional solutions.Major improvements to Kettering’s town centre due to start in January
The Kettering High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) project, a £4 million partnership between North Northamptonshire Council and Historic England, is working to revitalise parts of Kettering town centre to improve the look and feel of the town’s street scene and showcase all it has to offer.
Across England, the £95 million government-funded High Streets Heritage Action Zone programme, which is being delivered by Historic England with local partners, will unlock the potential of high streets, fuelling economic, social and cultural recovery and breathe new life into it for future generations.
The aim is to transform and restore disused and dilapidated buildings into new homes, shops, workplaces and community spaces, restoring local historic character and improving public realm.
Street scene improvements will begin in January in Kettering town centre along the southern end of the High Street, Meadow Road and parts of Lower Street and Gold Street. The works are due to be completed by summer 2022.
As part of the works, new street trees will be planted to enhance the existing planting. Replacement pavement and road surfaces, new seating and bins will be designed to improve functionality for users and compliment the town’s rich heritage, encouraging visitors to look up at Kettering’s fine historic buildings.
Building owners will also benefit from the HSHAZ scheme with grants available for building repairs, shopfront improvements and building conversions.
Cllr David Brackenbury, NNC’s Executive Member for Growth & Regeneration, said: “This exciting programme of works will breathe new life into Kettering’s town centre and unlock its potential. It is hoped that this work will encourage people to visit and stay a while and use the businesses and services available in Kettering.”
Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the NNC, said: “I am delighted that this phase of the project is starting, and we will all be able to enjoy the improvements by summer next year. This exciting project will see the area revitalised and I cannot wait to see the end result.”
Louise Brennan, Historic England’s Midlands Regional Director, said: “Kettering has a great High Street with many fine buildings and huge potential. Historic England is excited to be funding these major improvements to the street scene. Good design, traditional and high quality materials will ensure these works complement the unique character of Kettering’s town centre.”
Proposals brought forward for next phase of redevelopment at Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter
As part of the continued regeneration of The Cornhill Quarter in Lincoln, Lincolnshire Co-op are bringing forward proposals for the next phase of its development.
Having established a vibrant leisure and retail environment in this area of the city, they are now seeking to bring further investment through the addition of both residential and hotel accommodation at the site.
McCarthy Stone, the developer and manager of independent retirement living communities, is bringing forward proposals for a flagship development at the City Square Centre site on Sincil Street and Waterside South, combining specialist retirement accommodation with leisure facilities available to both its residents and the wider community.
Adjacent to the McCarthy Stone development, on Melville Street, Lincolnshire Co-op is proposing to develop the site for a hotel with around 150 bedrooms, supporting and enhancing the city’s role as a key destination for tourism.
As identified by the Consultation Draft Local Plan (2021), Lincoln continues to attract increasing numbers of visitors, and hotels in the city are already frequently full and forced to turn business away.
Both McCarthy Stone and Lincolnshire Co-op have commenced a pre-application consultation programme. Because of the ongoing impacts of Covid-19, the consultation programme is being undertaken in digital and postal format.
Plans in for 34,000 sq ft car dealership in Leicester
Property developer HBD has submitted planning for a new 34,000 sq ft car dealership at its Melton Road site in a jobs and investment boost for Leicester.
HBD is progressing the plans after agreeing terms with TMS Motor Group – a circa £10million deal that represents the largest investment made by TMS to date and will see the creation of 20 new jobs.
TMS Motor Group is family owned and run, operating from five centres across Coventry, Hinckley and Leicester. This latest addition will be its sixth centre, further expanding its reach across the Midlands. The new proposed dealership will offer both Volvo and Kia vehicles, alongside a service centre.
Josh Spicer, development surveyor at HBD, said: “We’re pleased to be working with TMS to deliver a new dealership for Leicester – it’s positive to see investment being ploughed into the city, driving up confidence and creating new jobs. Melton Road is very well-located, providing straightforward access for both TMS and its customers, and I’ve no doubt it will prove a successful addition to the Group.”
Len Hallows, Managing Director of TMS Motor Group, said: “This development represents the largest investment made by TMS to date – it will combine both Volvo and Kia on one site and provide customers with a modern retail facility with plenty of car parking, along with electric charging points.
“The proposed new site will also provide opportunities for new employment across our business, including apprenticeships. It’s a fantastic location close to the outer ring road, coupled with new facilities that will create a relaxed, comfortable environment for customers, with flexible waiting, working and assessment areas that will be designed and built sustainably.”
Major pub company acquired
Fortress Investment Group has acquired Vine Acquisitions Limited (Punch Pubs & Co.) from Patron Capital Partners.
The transaction is entirely funded by equity provided by funds managed by Fortress affiliates, with no additional debt finance, with existing management maintaining its equity ownership.
Punch Pubs & Co., led by Chief Executive Officer Clive Chesser, is one of the UK’s leading pub companies with 1,300 pubs across the UK.
Its strategy focuses on running the best community pubs, led by passionate and independent publicans via a specialist multi-model platform to deliver the optimum return.
Punch’s resilient business model and a suburban and rural estate has enabled it to weather the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, culminating in the acquisition of 56 pubs from Young’s Ram Pub Company in July.
Cyril Courbage, Managing Director, Fortress Investment Group, said: “We are excited to team with Clive and the Punch management, which has done an exceptional job of navigating the challenges of the Covid crisis while positioning the business for long-term growth and value creation.
“We believe in providing strong management teams with the flexibility and support to execute their long-term strategic plans. The UK is an extremely attractive investment environment, and we will continue to explore other opportunities in this sector and across the UK, Ireland and Europe.”
Clive Chesser, Punch Pubs & Co. CEO, said: “This is very positive news for everyone connected with Punch, and we are extremely excited about the opportunity that lies ahead with Fortress Investment Group. Fortress is a hugely experienced investor who understands the strengths of our business and fully buys into our strategic positioning and business plan.
“We welcome their ambition and commitment to work alongside the existing management team to invest in the business with innovation and capital to ensure our long-term success in what is a highly competitive market.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the teams at both Patron Capital and May Capital for the outstanding backing that they have provided during their ownership of the business. Their support has been invaluable over the last four years, none more so of course than during the pandemic.”
Stephen Green, Senior Partner, Patron Capital, said: “Punch is a fantastic business and has been an extremely successful investment for our investors, thanks to the talent and hard work of the management team and our partner on the investment, May Capital. We wish Clive and the team well for the future with Fortress.”
CTS to step-up growth after multi-million pound refinancing
Construction Testing Solutions (CTS), the Palatine-backed provider of construction and infrastructure testing and consulting services, has completed a multi-million pound refinancing with European credit specialist Kartesia.
The new funding will support the Leicester-headquartered company to continue a growth strategy that has already seen it acquire five businesses since it secured investment from Palatine’s Buyout Fund in 2018.
CTS offers a range of construction testing services including materials testing, structure and pavement surveys and geotechnical and geo-environmental investigations. With support from Palatine, the UK mid-market private equity investor, it has grown to become a national network of 19 laboratories and offices, employing more than 600 skilled engineers and technicians.
In the last 12 months CTS’ revenues have passed £40m for the first time, while the business has also recently moved to a new head office, following its separation from sister company CET Group.
Chief Executive Phil Coles said: “The new funding from Kartesia will be key to delivering our strategic growth plan, giving us the firepower to make further acquisitions in the short and medium term, while also allowing us to invest in our people and technical capabilities.”
Nick Holman, director at Kartesia, said: “We are delighted to complete our second transaction with Palatine and support CTS; a resilient and critical service provider with an excellent track record in the UK market. Our capital will help the company continue its impressive growth story and fulfil its buy-and-build ambitions.”
Tom Hustler, investment manager at Palatine Private Equity, said: “This refinancing deal is an important step forward for CTS and will allow it to continue to add depth and scale to its capabilities in line with its strategic vision of becoming an industry-leading nationwide construction testing business.
“We are pleased to be supporting Phil and the management team and look forward to making continued progress in 2022.”
Since becoming part of Palatine’s portfolio CTS has acquired: Esseltest, Enverity (2019), Card Geotechnics Ltd (CGL) (2020), Nicholls Colton, (2021) and most recently Silkstone Environmental in August.
Palatine was advised by a team from Clearwater International.
2022 Business Predictions: Amanda Dorel, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Amanda Dorel, regional director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank.
Businesses in the East Midlands have shown tremendous resilience throughout 2021. Our Business Barometer has indicated that confidence among local firms has grown steadily throughout the year, rising significantly from a negative reading at the start of the year to an impressive 42% in November.
However, the events of the past few weeks have demonstrated that we cannot predict what is around the corner. Firms have had to react quickly to ongoing supply chain disruption, and continue to face uncertainty over the impact of the Omicron variant.
Despite this, businesses will still be tentatively looking towards new opportunities in the new year; both at home, aided by more regional investment, and abroad, where new trade deals could open up wider prospects for East Midlands firms.
We expect sustainability to be one of the key factors dictating the business agenda in 2022. Eco-friendly credentials are no longer a ‘nice to have’, consumers expect firms to be making the right call on their environmental impact, and last month’s COP26 conference has increased this scrutiny even further.
We will be working with businesses to help them become greener through schemes such as our Clean Growth Finance Initiative (CGFI), which provides discounted funding to help businesses transition to a lower carbon, more sustainable future.
While there will be challenges in the months ahead, there will also be opportunities. Businesses must ensure they are ready to take advantage of these.
Banks Infrastructure wins major earthworks contract at Nottinghamshire gypsum mine
The new infrastructure division of County Durham-headquartered renewable energy and property firm The Banks Group has won its first major contract.
Banks Infrastructure has taken over as principal contractor at Bantycock Quarry near Newark after winning a competitive tender from operators Saint-Gobain Formula.
Bantycock Quarry Manager, Kevin Glasper, from Saint-Gobain Formula explains why they chose Banks Infrastructure for the new contract: “We are always looking for ways to continuously improve our operations in terms of efficiency, environmental performance and restoration, and Banks’ reputation in all these areas is first class.
“As a company with over 40 years’ experience as a surface mining business, they are ideally suited to our gypsum quarrying operation at Bantycock. They offer larger, more high-tech mobile plant with state-of-the-art ‘telematics’ monitoring equipment which will enable them to deliver the best fuel and performance efficiency.
“As well as the day-to-day extraction, moving and crushing of gypsum, we are also looking forward to working with them on the restoration of quarried areas as we finish working them. They have experience of restoring 114 mines around the country so also bring particular expertise in this area from which we – and the local area – will benefit.”
Gavin Styles, executive director at The Banks Group, adds: “Our ability to quickly adapt and refocus our business has long been a strength. Following a difficult 2020, we set out to repurpose our mining division and I am delighted that our new Banks Infrastructure division has won its first major contract.
“It is an exciting time with a significant challenge of transitioning to net zero. Responsible businesses are essential to this being a success. Our ambition is to build long-term working relationships with businesses who share our values and approach and together help drive down the financial, social and environmental costs of the transition.
“We are delighted to be working with Saint-Gobain Formula who share our values as we fully support their commitment to making the world a better home.”
D2N2 Hydrogen Taskforce to accelerate hydrogen collaboration across the region
D2N2’s Hydrogen Taskforce could be a key building block for the Midlands Engine as part of a new strategy for hydrogen technologies announced this week.
Last year Derby set out its aim to become the UK’s centre of excellence for future fuel technologies, using the city’s advanced manufacturing expertise to revolutionise the way low-carbon energy is used to power businesses, transport and homes.
In a bid to realise its goal, Derby City Council commissioned Arup – a global, employee-owned, built environment consultancy – to study the potential of hydrogen as an energy source for the region, and to set out a roadmap of how that could become a reality.
Hydrogen is increasingly recognised as a viable and low carbon future fuel that can help the UK meet its net zero commitments by 2050.
The work by Derby City Council, Arup and D2N2 reflects the case for the scaling up of hydrogen made in the government’s recently released UK Hydrogen Strategy report, which pledges support for creating a market and developing home-grown supply chains, leveraging local research and innovation strengths, and attracting investment to create high quality jobs, industry and export opportunities.
As the UK transitions to a low carbon economy there are significant opportunities from the changes to technology, methods of production and forms of consumption. The D2N2 hydrogen taskforce has been set up to lead by example and foster collaboration to create pace and greater co-ordination, as well as a strong single voice to investors and Government.
The new taskforce brings together business, entrepreneurs, academia and public sector partners to champion a range of projects aimed at delivering opportunities for investment, business growth and jobs across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire (D2N2). The taskforce will focus on five main areas:
- Production, distribution, and storage
- Heating
- Transport
- Industry
- Jobs, skills and research.
Dozens of council buildings set to benefit from £24m carbon cutting programme
AN ambitious programme to cut the carbon cost of dozens of council buildings in Leicester has reached a milestone.
Earlier this year, Leicester City Council was successful in its bid for over £24million of Government funding through the Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
The new funding – provided by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) – will support an ambitious programme of works to improve the energy efficiency and cut the carbon footprint of over 90 city council-owned buildings, including 55 schools.
After a busy summer installing new energy saving LED lighting in over 50 buildings, work has now been completed on the first installations of new solar photo-voltaic panels on school buildings.
Wyvern Primary School, in Rushey Mead, is one of the first schools to benefit. Work is now complete on the installation of a 45-panel photo voltaic array on its main roof. The school has also seen all 880 of its light fittings upgraded to energy efficient LEDs.
These two measures will help the school cut its own carbon footprint by almost 20 tonnes per year, and make an estimated annual energy saving of around £12,500.
Solar panels are due to be fitted on 60 buildings as part of the city council’s Salix funded programme, with work now complete at three schools. It is estimated that the overall programme will see around 2,800 new solar panels installed in total – enough to cover 18 championship courts at Wimbledon.
Over 50 buildings are already benefitting from new LED lighting, and twenty more will see their lighting upgraded in the coming months.
In addition, the programme will see over 12,000 square meters of replacement double glazed window installed across 40 buildings, and 35 sites are set to benefit from new air source heat pumps to replace gas boilers.
Along with works to 55 schools, improvements will also be made to council-run leisure centres, libraries, community centres and offices. In total, 37 non-school buildings will benefit from the programme, including De Montfort Hall which will see its stage and auditorium lighting replaced with energy efficient LEDs.
It’s estimated the combined energy efficiency improvements being funded through the programme will result in an overall carbon saving of around 3,000tCO2e – equivalent to the average emissions produced by over 900 standard homes.
Deputy City Mayor Cllr Adam Clarke, who leads on environment and transportation, said: “The need to retrofit older buildings to make them energy efficient is among the many challenges presented by the climate emergency.
“This new funding was a huge boost to our low carbon ambitions as a council, and it is great to see the progress being made to help cut the carbon cost of our schools, libraries, leisure centres and other buildings.
“It is an ambitious programme of investment that will help us dramatically cut carbon emissions from our buildings and save hundreds of thousands of pounds in energy costs – something that is very welcome in these challenging times.
“It also just one part of a major, multi-million programme of investment in the city that will help us make an important step forward in our citywide response to the climate emergency.
“Now, more than ever, it is vital that we work with local partners to maintain this momentum and continue to urge central Government to support Leicester’s vision to be carbon neutral by 2030.”
Cutting the carbon footprint of the city’s buildings is a key action resulting from the first Leicester Climate Emergency Strategy. The strategy sets out an ambitious vision for how the city needs to change to move towards becoming carbon-neutral and adapting to the effects of global heating by 2030, or sooner.
To find out more visit www.leicester.gov.uk/ClimateEmergency
Senior plant scientist joins growing AgTech firm
AgTech firm Light Science Technologies (LST) has made a new addition to its rapidly expanding team of scientists, as the business experiences an accelerated period of growth and the sector sees increasing global interest in indoor farming.
Chuan Ching Foo, known as CC, joins the team as senior plant scientist, where she will take on full responsibility for the running and management of LST’s onsite lab facilities where new crop testing is carried out, while also supporting the company’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality, flavour, and freshness of produce for indoor growers and farmers in polytunnel, glasshouse and vertical farming.
With a background in Bioscience, CC studied in her native country of Brunei where she has a BSc in Biotechnology from Monash University, Malaysia. In 2013, she came to the UK to study for her MSc in Crop Improvement, before completing her PhD in Photosynthesis and Photoprotection in Crops at the University of Nottingham, where she also served as a lab technician overseeing lab and growth room facilities.
She has previously taught in student workshops and also worked as a research technician with Verdesian Life Sciences and Azotic Technologies, as well as working on numerous collaborative projects with global institutes including CIMMYT in Mexico; Lancaster University, CSIRO based in Australia and NIAB in the UK.
LST, located on Derby’s Hilton Business Park, creates lighting and sensor technology for commercial indoor farming such as vertical farming, polytunnels and greenhouses.
Currently employing 17 staff, it has its eyes on global expansion as part of the company’s longer-term growth plans. In October, the firm announced its flotation on the stock exchange after raising over £5 million in funds.
Commenting on the new appointment, Simon Deacon, CEO of LST, says: “I am delighted to welcome CC who has the talent, experience and drive we need to take us to the next stage of LST’s strategic objectives in indoor farming and help build on the ongoing momentum we are currently experiencing. We’re excited to utilise her expertise alongside further developing our award-winning technology to revolutionise agriculture and indoor growing.”
“I am thrilled to join LST at a time of such ambitious growth,” says CC. “COP26 has highlighted the urgent need for us all to switch to a way of sourcing food that is sustainable and reliable, and through the use of AgriTech, has reinforced the benefits and potential it will bring over the next few years. To be able to harness my knowledge in crop science to create a more sustainable world is incredibly motivating and LST sets up the perfect opportunity.”
RBC Group expands remanufacturing facility at fully let Old Dalby Business Park
A Leicestershire business park owned by independent property company Hortons’ Estate Limited is fully let after an existing tenant’s expansion secured the final available industrial/warehouse unit on the site.
Engineering and technology firm, RBC Group has signed a 10-year lease with landlord, Hortons’ Estate Ltd on 51,000 sq ft of additional space at Old Dalby Business Park, near Melton Mowbray.
The deal extends RBC Group’s commitment at the business park to almost 200,000 sq ft of industrial accommodation, which includes its current headquarters at Unit 3, one of Europe’s largest remanufacturing facilities.
The firm operates five additional depots at strategic locations across the UK, supporting its delivery of automated retail, manufacturing, technology, asset management, payment solutions and integrated logistics.
Old Dalby Business Park is a 39-acre industrial complex located between Leicester, Nottingham and Loughborough, approximately 1.2 miles from the A606.
The site offers a range of warehousing and manufacturing accommodation from 2,000 sq ft to 135,000 sq ft, and is home to established occupiers including Toyota Material Handling UK Limited, Funbikes and East Midlands Pharmaceutical.
Jeremy Boothroyd of Hortons’ said: “We are very pleased that RBC Group has chosen to commit to Old Dalby as the location for the continued expansion of its industry leading services.
“Like many of our occupiers on the business park, we have developed a positive working relationship with the team at RBC Group and look forward to supporting their growth and development in the years ahead as the business continues to evolve and expand.
“Old Dalby is a popular and established industrial location and now the existing accommodation is fully let, we are exploring further development opportunities on the site.”
Colin Lowe of RBC Group said: “We are delighted to have acquired additional space at Old Dalby Business Park. Old Dalby has been our home for many years, and as we execute our plans to grow the business and invest for the future, our signing of a long-term lease demonstrates our continued commitment to the local community and UK innovation.
“Moreover, as RBC Group expands, we will be creating jobs in cutting-edge fields from manufacturing to artificial intelligence, developing the future of automated retail and, in all our work, building toward a greener and more equitable future.”
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson appointed to £7bn Department for Education framework
G F Tomlinson are celebrating their re-appointment as an approved partner for the new £7bn Department for Education 2021 Construction Framework, a four year framework for the delivery of both education and non-education projects in the public sector.
The framework supports the delivery of the Department for Education’s school building programmes, with an emphasis on achieving net zero carbon in operation.
Following a rigorous selection process, G F Tomlinson is one of only 26 contractors to be selected nationally, and will deliver projects valued between £0.5m and £6.0m across the East and West Midlands.
This is the third consecutive Department for Education framework the regional contractor has been appointed to since 2014. Over the last 8 years, the company has delivered more than £55m of new build and refurbished primary, secondary, SEND and alternative provision schools, providing 4,467 new pupil places across the Midlands.
The new framework will be available to local authorities, schools, academies, FE colleges, universities and other public bodies which provide educational facilities in England, whilst also being available to central government, including government agencies.
G F Tomlinson has a strong focus on sustainability and social value, and will deliver schemes which meet stringent framework targets for local spend/labour, apprenticeships, T Level placements and reducing waste and carbon emissions.
Chris Flint, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are proud to have been re-appointed to the 2021 Construction Framework which continues our long-association with the Department for Education and expands on our delivery of high quality education facilities across the Midlands.
“With our experienced and committed framework team, we are ideally placed to ensure the educational facilities delivered through the framework meet the immediate and long-term needs of users, providing safe, healthy and productive environments.
“The DfE framework places decarbonisation at the forefront of every scheme. Our standardised school solutions comply with the DfE’s Output Specification and meets the zero carbon requirements for new schools. We will work with the DfE, their Technical Advisors and the schools themselves to ensure schemes continue to respond to the climate emergency and achieve the Government’s net zero targets.”
Office Design Trends for 2022: Hybrid Working
There’s been a shift in the way businesses use their offices over the last 18 months, shaping office trends for 2022. Lincolnshire-based commercial interior design and fit out company APSS has nearly 25 years’ experience in creating amazing workspaces for businesses across the country and it has been looking at the different ways in which offices are changing.
Many businesses are now opting for a more permanent hybrid working environment. The office design post-COVID has certainly changed. So what can be expected from the office environment, and what will this mean for companies?
In 2022, office design, the flow of people moving about the office and its functionality are at the top the priority list. With a focus on environmental impact and creating flexible, hybrid working environments, businesses are adapting to a new working format. A pleasant office space increases productivity, boost staff morale and make an impression on visitors to your place of business.
Biophilic offices are proving popular as they provide a link to nature. Nature friendly offices are becoming highly sought after by leading office designers as they create optimal working environments allowing occupants to work more. They have a positive impact on mental wellbeing, productivity, and morale for all who use the office space.
Hybrid Working Environment
According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, around 70% of companies will incorporate a hybrid working environment. Office trends will see a shift to create more varied spaces to work in. This includes more than just the normal banks of desks or office and meeting room space. The hybrid office design supports staff working both in and out of the office environment. They need to quickly access the information and speak to the rest of the team easily. The post-pandemic workplace needs to be far more flexible. The key is organising offices so it is optimized for how staff productivity and efficiency. Different business types require various layout ideas. Some require a central meeting hub. Others will require staff to be in full time when it is not possible for them to work from home. In this case the traditional desk spaces will continue to be required. Staff have got used to working from home over the last 18 months. It has become apparent the hybrid working environment is not a passing trend. Staff want more comfortable furnishings in the office and separate areas they can work in a quieter environment. They are requesting freedom of movement in the office rather than being chained to a desk, depending on the work they are doing. Many businesses may find they are rarely at full capacity anymore as more people work from home at least some of the time. This has freed up space in the office for meeting areas and staff amusements like a games area or a table tennis table. It has become more important for hybrid working environments to be a central meeting hub for employees and customers.Bring Nature Into The Office
According to the EMEA, offices which incorporate natural elements report a 13% higher level of well-being than offices that don’t. More businesses are looking to incorporate biophilic (or green) walls, planter storage units or potted plants to incorporate the outside on the inside. Living plants incorporated into offices will help increase oxygen levels, decrease fatigue and improve concentration levels. This will help boost productivity whether at home or in the office. Wooden slatted walls or area dividers are great for creating separation between departments or work/meeting spaces. They look aesthetically pleasing and create a more natural feel. Alternatively, go a step further and incorporate tree trunks for a unique partition wall.The Sustainable Smart Office
Businesses are looking at the different ways they can become more environmentally friendly and reduce their carbon footprint. This is because of the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties 26th meeting (COP26) being held in 2021. As a country, we need to make big changes now so in 2030 we will start to see the effects of our efforts. The majority of consumers look for businesses which pay attention to the environmental and social impact it has on the world. Making changes to your corporate fleet, recycling more and minimizing business travel are great places to start looking to make a change. But many businesses are also looking to create a smarter office environment which reduces energy consumption. The last couple of years have pushed emerging trends into hyperdrive. What would normally have taken five to 10 years to become the norm in office design, has been forced to happen overnight. Many companies, don’t want to go back to what can now potentially feel like the Stone Age. A smart office incorporates the best management tools to help staff work better, faster and happier. Using light sensors, installing automatic doors, using automatic bathroom facilities like flushes, taps and hand dryers is a great cost and energy saving tactic. It also helps reduce the number of touch points in a shared environment. You can even install intelligent climate controls now which detects preferences, usage patterns and regulates the temperate automatically. This could potentially end staff disagreements over whether the office is too hot or too cold. This has helped staff feel more confident in the work environment. It includes the extra benefit of creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly workspace, saving money on electricity and water. It’s a win-win situation. The government is looking at ways to incentivize businesses to use renewable energy. We have found many businesses installing solar panels on its roof which can significantly reduce bills and provides energy for your business.Office Design for Staff Wellbeing
Office design has change to incorporate more space between desks to accommodate social distancing. Perspex screens, also known as COVID screens, have become standard fittings in offices that continue to utilize an open plan environment. Alternatively, where offices have more space, the cellular office design is being brought back into fashion. This limits the spread of germs and has proven to reduce absence due to sickness by up to a quarter. It promotes productivity thanks to a quieter environment. Fewer distractions and additional privacy are also a benefit. Cellular offices can be tailored to each team or department’s requirements.Leicestershire businesses encouraged to take part in pilot scheme that will overhaul skills development
Businesses across Leicestershire have been invited to take part in a pioneering scheme that will help pave the way for a new approach to how skills programmes are delivered.
The Leicester and Leicestershire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) pilot will put the county’s employers at the centre of skills provision, building stronger links with local colleges and training providers.
Led by East Midlands Chamber, it is one of eight “trailblazer” areas funded by the Department for Education as part of the LSIP programme. In this pilot phase, it is now looking for companies in logistics, manufacturing, and sports and human health to take part in the scheme.
Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs at East Midlands Chamber, said: “We often hear there is a gap between education providers and employers when it comes to skills provision, and how this places businesses at a disadvantage when it comes to filling vacancies – ultimately holding them back from increasing productivity, growing and in turn creating more jobs.
“The LSIP pilot is a fantastic opportunity for the business community to put itself at the centre of this agenda so that learners coming out of our local colleges are well-equipped with the right knowledge, skills and behaviours for the demands of our labour market by aligning courses accordingly.
“To ensure the LSIP accurately reflects the needs of employers in the region, it’s important we hear from as many people from our target sectors as possible. This could include frontline staff, operations and support staff, team leaders, managers, HR departments or learning and development professionals.
“Participants will play an integral role in ensuring the future knowledge, skills and behaviour requirements are provided for within Leicestershire.”
What does the Local Skills Improvement Plan pilot involve?
The first phase of the LSIP pilot involves collecting data via a mobile app. Participants will be asked to answer one or two short questions every weekday for up to four weeks. It should take no longer than a couple of minutes per day. The daily questions will relate to five key training and development themes:- Your confidence in being able to recruit the people you need
- Your views on investment in training and skills
- The knowledge areas most important to the future of your business
- The skills that will be most important for your business
- The behaviours that you feel will be most important for your team to have.
Housing association CEO Lindsey Williams inducted as new East Midlands Chamber president
Lindsey Williams, who has headed up one of the region’s largest housing associations for almost two decades, is the new president of East Midlands Chamber.
The Chief Executive of Futures Housing Group, which manages more than 10,000 homes across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire, was inducted into the role at the Chamber’s annual general meeting.
In her first speech as president, she spoke about her two priorities – to support the Chamber’s objective of strengthening links between businesses and communities to create a “Sustainable East Midlands,” and to support the wider region in attracting, developing and retaining great talent via the young professionals’ network Generation Next.
She said: “I’m extremely proud to become president of East Midlands Chamber after observing much of its great work across the region as a board member, and I’m excited about what we can achieve in the year ahead.
“I’m passionate about people having choice – something that is limited by poverty and a lack of opportunity – so I want to ensure our region has equity of investment compared to the rest of the country and, specifically, to promote how any company can have an impact on the local community.
“As a housing provider with an important role in our communities, I’m aware of the many benefits this can have for organisations – building reputation, raising employee loyalty and establishing networks – and there has probably never been a more important time for this connection as we continue to see the negative impact of the pandemic on communities.
“The Chamber’s aim is to help its members achieve their aspirations in supporting the communities in which they operate by getting 70% of our members active in local communities – so I hope I can support in increasing this number over the next year by sharing best practice and ideas, celebrating the work of members and providing encouragement to organisations to engage.”
Lindsey, who joined the housing sector via a management traineeship at Birmingham City Council before becoming one of the UK’s youngest housing association directors before the age of 30, has been Chief Executive of Futures Housing Group since 2003, when it was known as Amber Valley Housing.
She led it through the acquisition of Daventry and District Housing in 2007, as well as in buying a stake in Nottingham-based training provider Access Training – which helps more than 1,000 learners a year – and launching a grounds maintenance social enterprise Futures Greenscape, which last year merged into the wider group.
During her time at Futures, the organisation has doubled headcount to about 330 people, achieved Investors in People platinum accreditation and, earlier this year, moved from Ripley to a new 20,000 sq ft home called Futures House, based at Pegasus Business Park next to East Midlands Airport. Lindsey has also been a strategic leader on various boards and is an active member of the National Housing Federation in the region.
As well as inviting Chamber members to approach her to discuss how they can build links with their communities and encouraging them to put forward young leaders for Generation Next membership, she announced the three charities she will raise money for throughout 2022.
These are Treetops Hospice Care, an end-of-life care charity that operates in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire; Focus, which helps young people in Leicester to develop skills, confidence and aspirations; and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, which has helped protect the green spaces that have become so valuable during the pandemic.
Outgoing president Eileen Richards MBE, who owns Leicester-based ER Recruitment, presented her three charities – Chesterfield Samaritans, Help the Homeless Leicester and Nottinghamshire Hospice – with their equal share of the £12,000 she fundraised.
In her speech, she said: “I chose these three charities carefully to reflect the wide range of good work being done every day and I’m incredibly proud to have quadrupled the Chamber’s previous best amount thanks to the amazing generosity of our members and staff.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my year as president and feel very honoured for the experience. It has been immensely fulfilling to see my priority objectives take great strides forward.
“Members have come to us in huge volumes and almost two-thirds have accessed at least one service; Generation Next has developed significantly to establish its own shadow board and stage its first awards event; and our strategy to help shape the region’s economic recovery has been witnessed by the Kickstart Scheme, in which we have helped to fill more than 1,500 placements.
“It was also exciting to see our Business Awards return to face-to-face events and encapsulate the best of all that our people and members do. Each of our three ceremonies highlighted the outstanding talent we are blessed with in our region.”
During the Chamber’s AGM, which was hosted by chair of the board of directors Ian Morgan OBE, Stuart Dawkins was elected as the new vice-president. He brings a wide range experience, including heading strategic planning and corporate communications for a FTSE 100 company, and has been a board member for organisations for a wide variety of sectors.
New directors elected to the board were University of Derby commercial director Dr Peter Dewhurst, Geldards LLP chairman David Williams, SMB Group Chief Executive and principal Dawn Whitemore and Dr Cham Kang, chief visionary officer at business growth consultancy Qinesis.
David Campbell, director of the Chamber’s Derbyshire Business of the Year, SureScreen Diagnostics, which has supplied Covid-19 lateral flow tests to the UK and overseas, gave a speech about his company and there was a presentation for longstanding members of the Chamber.
Denby IT firm spreads festive cheer with food bank donation to local Salvation Army
Families in Amber Valley who were facing a difficult Christmas have received some festive cheer thanks to a local charity and kind-hearted staff from a Denby IT firm.
Axess Systems, which is based in Denby Hall Business Centre, have been collecting food for their local Salvation Army, who will package up the goodies and deliver them to almost 170 families living in Ripley and the surrounding area.
James Walker, marketing executive for Axess Systems, said: “Everyone at Axess – staff, clients and their families – have kindly donated food such as tinned products, tea, coffee and UHT milk, which has been delivered to the Salvation Army in Heath Road, Ripley.
“The food parcels will make a huge difference at this time of year, when many feel isolated or alone.”
Callum Thompson, minister of the Salvation Army in Ripley and Somercotes, said: “We have had to increase our capacity over the past two years due to the pandemic, as the demand has increased.
“Almost 170 families in Amber Valley will receive food parcels from the Salvation Army and 300 children will also receive a large, a medium and a small toy plus a colouring book, a reading book and a teddy. We’re extremely grateful for the donations we receive and would like to say thank you to Axess Systems for their goods.”
The Salvation Army food bank runs throughout the year, with around 600 people benefitting. They also hand out ‘starter packs’ for those leaving foster care, which include cutlery, cleaning products and toiletries.
Callum added: “Before the pandemic, we operated as a drop-off service and as well as donations of food and essentials, people also appreciated our time and knowledge of other services from which they could benefit.
“Unfortunately, due to Covid, that has had to change; we now operate a booking service and take referrals from organisations such as Futures Housing, Amber Valley Borough Council, the local job centre and addiction services.
“It’s a 365 day service and we appreciate all the help we can get. We’re grateful that, thanks to kind-hearted people like the staff at Axess Systems, we can help bring a little festive cheer to people in our area this Christmas.”
How to keep your temperature control equipment operational during the winter months
With the onset of much colder outdoor temperatures and snow and frost more prevalent in parts of the UK, here are a few tips to make sure your temperature control systems will survive the harsher weather conditions.
Delaying or ignoring proper winterisation for your cooling systems could potentially cause a number of problems such as equipment failure, resulting in the need to hire an interim, temporary solution.
Prevention is always better than cure – so be proactive when approaching the maintenance of your cooling systems during the colder months. Undertake routine checks to prevent pipes freezing and ultimately machines not working.
Top Tips:
Glycol – adding the correct (inhibited) anti-freeze/glycol to your system will prevent the fluid inside the system from freezing. The minimum concentration of glycol within the circuit should be 25%. Although be aware that the incorrect concentration of glycol within the system could have a detrimental effect on the efficiency of your cooling circuit. Consideration should also be given to the circulating fluid temperature, plus the ambient exposure of the pipework and cooling system.
Trace heating – check trace heating is operating correctly.
Thermal insulation – ensure all pipework that is exposed to the winter air is appropriately insulated.
Mains Cold Water feeds – ensure all MCW feeds are drained or correctly frost protected.
Seasonal use equipment – turn off any equipment that is not going to be used in the colder months, or alternatively, drain down the circuit. If that is not possible, ensure you run the pump(s) at least once a month, to maintain lubrication.
In the words of Benjamin Franklin – “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
For any further help or guidance, please call Temperature Control and Humidity experts Newsome today on 01422 371711.
New build warehouse investment sold in Derby
Acting on behalf of Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd, FHP Property Consultants have completed the investment sale of Unit A Crown Park, Parcel Terrace, Derby.
The unit was built in 2020 and let later that year on a new 15 year lease to Derbyshire Performance.
Darran Severn of FHP Property Consultants says: “Crown Park comprises six new build industrial/warehouse units ranging in size from 2,583ft2 to 7,750ft2, all of which are finished to a high specification and are tenanted.
“Unit A is somewhat the jewel of the estate benefitting from a good sized self-contained yard to the front and rear of the property. The sale was secured at a price of £510,000 which represented a net initial yield of 6.24% after purchase costs.”
