Sandwich bread baker fined after worker loses finger
A bakery has been fined more than £360,000 after one of its employees lost a finger in machinery at a site in Northamptonshire.
Jacksons Bakery, a supplier of bread used in the commercial making of sandwiches, was given the fine after an engineer had a finger on his right hand caught in a flour sifting machine.
The then 31-year-old was assisting colleagues as they attempted to maintain the machine by clearing a blockage at the plant in Corby on 2 February 2023.
Following removal of a guard, as the engineer assisted with the task, he checked the tension of a drive belt and his hand got pulled around the bottom pully which resulted in the amputation of part of his right middle finger. The engineer was unaware that the machine had been switched back on.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Jacksons Bakery Limited failed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all their employees.
In this instance there was a failure to implement a safe system of work ensuring that machinery was isolated and then locked off during maintenance work when fixed guards would be removed.
Additionally, HSE found that engineers were unclear on when to isolate and ‘lock out tag out’ machines due to an absence of adequate training and instruction – and the fact that it was custom and practice to not robustly isolate and lock off illustrated an absence of adequate supervision and monitoring.
Jacksons Bakery Limited of The Riverside Building, Liverstone Road, Hessle, East Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to contravening a requirement of section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
The company was fined £366,666 and was ordered to pay £5,386 costs at a hearing at Wellingborough Magistrates Court on 3 October 2024.
After the hearing, HSE inspector Rebecca Gibson said: “This unnecessary incident highlights the duty on employers to ensure that there are robust procedures in place relating to maintenance activities.
“If an appropriate ‘lock out tag out’ procedure had been produced and implemented and with suitable training, the serious injury would have been avoided.”
U-turn for East Midlands economy as number of companies with late payments falls along with insolvency activity
The monthly number of East Midlands businesses with late payments on their books has fallen for the first time this year, while there has also been a drop in insolvency activity in the region.
According to the Midlands branch of R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body, the quantity of East Midlands companies with unpaid invoices past their due date fell to 24,145 in September, which is the region’s lowest number for 2024. It is also the lowest figure for the month across all English regions, except for the North East.
R3’s figures, which are based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, also show a decrease in insolvency activity in the East Midlands, which includes liquidator and administrator appointments as well as creditors’ meetings.
R3 Midlands Chair Stephen Rome, a partner at Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “There are signs that the local economy is shifting from a period of high inflation, stagnation and recession to conditions which are more favourable for growth.
“We have seen retail sales rise over the summer, and the construction and tourism sectors have also received a boost. However, despite some improvement in the local economic picture, there are still significant obstacles to overcome as we head into the critical pre-Christmas trading period.
“It is therefore absolutely crucial for both new and longer-established businesses to keep a careful eye on cashflow and to plan ahead. As soon as any significant financial difficulties arise, professional advice should be sought so that rescue options can be maximised.”
Unique village centre site sold for new housing in Melbourne, Derbyshire
A development opportunity in the market town of Melbourne has been sold to Cameron Homes by Loughborough-based specialist land and development consultancy Mather Jamie who acted on behalf of the landowner.
Formerly used as the Melbourne Senior Citizens Community Centre, the site is an extraordinary development opportunity which benefits from full planning permission for the demolition of existing building and the erection of five new high-quality dwellings with associated amenity space and car parking. Plot sizes range from 1,065 sq ft to 1,700 sq ft.
Commenting on behalf of Mather Jamie, Development Surveyor, Sam Tyler, said: “Melbourne is a thriving village on the edge of the National Forest, and 8 miles south of Derby.
“With more than 60 restaurants and shops on offer nearby, the potential to have quality housing within the village centre will be a much added boost to the local economy and a huge attraction for new home owners.”
Cameron Homes began designing and building individual homes in 1994. Its ethos is to take the right parcel of land in the right location to create beautiful homes that owners would fall in love with, that blend with existing communities, and enhance the surroundings.
Elliott Lawley from Cameron Homes added: “This site and its location fits our development model perfectly. Our plan is to be very sensitive to its conservation area location, in the very heart of Melbourne, whilst also meeting the demands of the local community.
“Mather Jamie has been a pleasure to deal with and extremely professional and co-operative during negotiations.”
Government consults on plans to modernise pension provision
The UK government is fast-tracking plans to modernise its own pensions system by broadening access to Collective Defined Contribution schemes.
CDC pension schemes were first introduced to the UK in 2022, and have the potential to deliver reliable returns for savers, while ensuring more predictable costs for employers.
Today, industry experts, savers and pension providers can have their say on new proposals to extend the current offering of CDC pension schemes to more employers, delivering better value for money for future pensioners and unlocking huge investment potential.
In Canada, the funds from pooled pension contributions are invested into a wider range of assets like infrastructure, startups and private equity – which can benefit the wider economy and boost returns.
Extending CDCs could similarly allow for greater return on investment for those saving into the schemes and allow for larger investment in the UK – supporting the Government’s growth mission to boost the economy.
Minister for Pensions Emma Reynolds said: “We are seizing this opportunity to modernise our pensions market to deliver better outcomes for millions of workers. People work hard to put money aside for their pension with every pay cheque. This significant innovation will offer a more predictable income and greater finance security for future pensioners.”
Currently only single or connected employers can set up CDC schemes, with the first scheme launched by the Royal Mail yesterday.
Building on the significant appetite from industry for extending CDC provision, the Government is now seeking to broaden access further by allowing unconnected multiple employer schemes – making this pension model more accessible to a wider range of businesses and employees.
This work builds on plans to review our pensions landscape as well as our new Pension Schemes Bill which could boost pension pots – with further consolidation and broader investment strategies to possibly deliver higher returns for pensioners.
The consultation seeks views from employers, industry experts, pension providers and the public on draft regulations and their potential impact.
The consultation will run for six weeks – running until 19 November 2024.
New team member, promotion, and investments at Mackworth Vehicle Conversion Specialists
Mackworth Vehicle Conversion Specialists, a provider of bespoke vehicle solutions, has appointed a new team member, made a promotion, and made a significant investment in facilities.
Mackworth has welcomed Phil Taylor as the new Quality and Compliance Inspector. With over five years of experience in quality assurance from his time at Toyota, Phil brings a wealth of expertise in maintaining high standards in the automotive industry.
At Toyota, Phil was responsible for conducting 300 checks in just five minutes on a rolling road, inspecting up to 280 vehicles daily.
At Mackworth, Phil’s role will be critical in ensuring that all vehicle conversions and modifications adhere to customer specifications and industry standards. He will be responsible for performing final quality checks on completed builds, verifying that each vehicle meets the bespoke needs of customers and adheres to Mackworth’s rigorous quality assurance protocols.
Andrew Kent, General Manager at Mackworth, said: “Phil’s eye for detail and dedication to quality will play a key role in enhancing the company’s operations, ensuring that all vehicles leave the facility ready for use and in perfect condition.”
Andrew continued: “Phil’s extensive background in quality assurance and his passion for the industry make him a valuable asset as Mackworth continues to grow and develop its capabilities.”
The company has also promoted Emma Ockhuis to Customer Sales Administrator. Emma has been with Mackworth for just over 12 months, during which time she has demonstrated exceptional dedication, attention to detail, and a strong passion for customer service.
Andrew said: “Emma has a fantastic work ethic and attitude; she’s always willing to go the extra mile for the team and our customers. Her positive approach and attention to detail have been invaluable, and she’s become someone the team can always rely on. Emma is not only efficient and organised, but she always brings her smile to work, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the work environment, Mackworth has invested £25,000 in upgrading its workshop toilet facilities. The new installation features automatic taps, promoting hygiene and water efficiency, along with efficient hand dryers, and modern cubicles and urinals. This investment aims to create a comfortable workspace for employees, ensuring the team can operate in the best possible conditions.
Frasers Group acquires over 1 million sq ft of retail assets
Frasers Group has made three real estate acquisitions in strategic retail locations.
The Shirebrook-based business has acquired Princesshay Shopping Centre in Exeter, Fremlin Walk Shopping Centre in Maidstone, and The Olympus Centre in Quedgeley.
Covering over 600,000 sq ft and including Princesshay Shopping Centre, this retail destination for shoppers in Exeter city centre and the wider region is home to more than 60 retailers across boutique, specialist and national brands.
Fremlin Walk Shopping Centre (350,000 sq ft) is a key retail destination in the heart of Maidstone, and home to major UK high street tenants.
It is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment ahead of the opening of a multi-brand 70,000 sq ft FRASERS flagship store, offering consumers access to more brands from the Group’s ecosystem including a Sports Direct, USC, Evans Cycles, GAME and Jack Wills. A 5,000 sq ft FLANNELS store is also set to open this month.
The Olympus Centre (65,000 sq ft) is a fully-let retail park located in the Quedgeley area of Gloucester. Strategically positioned, the retail park has good access to a thriving local catchment population and has strong fundamentals as a retail destination.
The three centres see an annual footfall of almost 17 million visitors.
Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group plc, said: “The acquisition of Princesshay, Fremlin Walk and The Olympus Centre reinforces our commitment to investing in physical retail. Securing properties which serve as the primary retail destination for the community remains a top priority for us.
“Such acquisitions unlock new growth opportunities for our retail concepts, while revitalising high streets and physical shopping locations up and down the country. At Frasers, we strive to re-invent and elevate retail for UK shoppers, bringing the very best brands, environments, and experiences to all our customers across the country.”
Frasers Group was advised by James Keany, Executive Director, Head of National Agency at CBRE on this acquisition.
Derby City Council instructs Salloway to sell Allestree Hall
Salloway Property Consultants have been instructed by Derby City Council to sell Allestree Hall.
Set in 8.7 acre grounds and including the former stables and icehouse, the building is steeped in history and character but requires new owners to repurpose and restore the building back to its former glory.
Allestree Hall was built in the early 1800’s on land previously owned by the Mundy family of Markeaton Hall.
Commissioned by Bache Thornhill, Architect James Wyatt was instructed to build an imposing mansion within a country park setting. The Grade II* listed building was built over three storeys with Ashlar stone elevations with sash windows and a central full height bow with a foundation stone bearing the initial JW and dated 1802.
The house was used as a residence from the early 1800s up until the late 1920s with notable stewards amongst others including William Evans, Sir Thomas Williams Evans, Colonel Herbert Johnson.
In 1928 the property was sold to Commercial Constructions Limited who broke the estate up, before disposing of this in 1936. Following the onset of the wars the property was utilised by the National Fire Service as the County Headquarters, albeit conflicting reports suggest that Sherwood Foresters Regiment occupied the property during a similar period.
In 1946 Derby City Council acquired the hall and subsequently converted some of the grounds into an 18-hole golf course. In November 2020 the golf course closed with the land returned to nature to become the UK’s largest urban re-wilding project.
The picturesque setting and scale of this property means that there is great potential in what the building could be utilised for and, subject to meeting the necessary planning and listed building requirements, Salloway believe that the building may be adaptable for educational, office, leisure and recreational or residential use.
“We went live with the property on Friday afternoon and given the volume of enquiries and requests for further information we are looking to conduct block viewings with an intention to draw interest to a close, by late October/early November,” said Chris Keogh, Associate Director, Salloway.
Refurbishment begins at Sutton Theatre
Sutton Community Academy’s theatre has now been stripped out ready for refurbishment works to begin.
The works are part of Ashfield District Council and Sutton Community Academy’s plans to upgrade the theatre, which will be rebranded and opened to the public as Cornerstone Theatre. The project is being funded as part of the Council’s £6.27m Future High Streets Fund, and is central to their plans to revitalise Sutton town centre.
The new theatre, which is due to be completed mid-2025, will allow residents and visitors to watch professional theatre performances, cinematic experiences, music and comedy nights in the heart of Sutton. Students at the college will continue to use the theatre for their performances and will give them valuable experience in a high-quality facility.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration, and Local Planning, said: “This project will help us achieve our goals of creating a vibrant and safe night-time economy in Ashfield. We are so proud to be investing in arts and culture, to allow more people of all backgrounds, young and old, in Ashfield and beyond to experience the magic of cinema, live theatre and music right here on their doorstep.
“All our regeneration projects, funded through over £100million external investment, have the common aim – to create an Ashfield that is a great place to live, work, play, study and visit.”
New dressing rooms and a green room, toilets – including a changing places room – foyer and box office will be created to accommodate the improved theatre. Inside the theatre itself the auditorium will be completely refurbished with new flooring, ceiling, acoustic wall treatments and doors.
A new retractable seating system will provide seating, and specialist lighting will also be installed. Considerations are being made to ensure the theatre will be an accessible space for staff, performers, and the audience.
Simon Martin, Vice Principal at ATTFE, said: “ATTFE is hugely excited to be involved in the inception and the future running of the Cornerstone facility. Sutton-in-Ashfield and the surrounding area has long needed investment in and opportunities for cultural experiences of all sorts, and Cornerstone will provide these for the direct communities, neighbourhoods, and families that we serve.”
WBR Group sponsors Navali Navratri event, supporting Saarthi charity
Leicester-based WBR Group, the independent provider of SSAS services and tax experts, has sponsorsed the Navali Navratri event organised for the fourth consecutive year by the Saarthi Charitable Foundation.
Navali Navratri, a nine day Hindu festival dedicated to the Goddess Amba, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and special events will take place on Friday 4th, Saturday 5th and Sunday 13th October.
The festival events, which started on Friday, are being held at the sports centre at Rugby College on Technology Drive.
WBR Group’s support for this event is particularly meaningful as one of their own, Dimple Joshi, is the driving force behind both the charity and the events.
Dimple’s journey into charitable work began in 2019. To celebrate her exam success, her parents made a significant donation to the Guria Foundation Charity in India, which aids children suffering from exploitation.
Dimple Joshi, WBR Group, said: “I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate my exam success than by helping others and my parents were in a fortunate position to be able to do this. I dedicate all of this to them. They chose the Guria Foundation as its purpose is to provide aid for children suffering exploitation.
“Wanting to ensure their donation made a genuine impact, as a family we spent time with the Charity’s founder, interacted with workers, and connected with the children benefiting from the foundation’s work. This experience had a lasting impact on me. I was overjoyed to be able to see their work and the time we spent with the children was priceless and left us feeling that we had made a meaningful impact on young lives.”
Inspired by this experience, Dimple and her parents founded Saarthi, a registered charity dedicated to supporting various initiatives and touching many lives.
The name “Saarthi” roughly translates as someone steering a chariot. The word represents guidance, leadership, and participation in a significant journey.
Saarthi aspires to embody these values by assisting individuals in need across India and being part of their lives.
Dimple added: “This is just the beginning for the charity, and we hope that it will continue to grow and bring real, tangible benefits to people. There is a lot of work ahead and we are looking forward to providing much needed help and support for the people in India and elsewhere.
“The charity will assist in making changes to the life outcomes of the many people it supports. Our goal is to expand our reach to as many people as possible in the future.”
The organisers of Navali Navratri have expressed immense gratitude for WBR Group’s continued support through generous donations.
Tom Moore, CEO of WBR Group, said: “At WBR Group, we believe in the power of giving back and supporting communities both locally and globally.
“Our involvement with Saarthi and the Navali Navratri event is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact. We are proud to support such a meaningful cause that not only celebrates cultural heritage but also brings tangible benefits to those in need.
“As we look forward to launching our own charitable foundation, we are excited to continue expanding our support for diverse charitable initiatives, with Saarthi being a shining example of the difference we aim to make.”
Barratt’s £2.5 billion purchase of rival Redrow Homes cleared
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has cleared Leicestershire-based housebuilding giant Barratt’s £2.5 billion purchase of rival Redrow Homes.
It follows the CMA concluding a Phase 1 investigation into the deal, where it found an area of concern regarding the supply of new build private residential housing in Whitchurch and Nantwich.
The businesses each have major, competing, developments in one of the towns and have agreed to sell remaining homes through an independent agent, with Savills appointed for this.
Moreover, a monitoring trustee and an independent professional quantity surveyor will be appointed to monitor and oversee the merged entity’s compliance with commitments including that unbuilt houses and unbuilt infrastructure in Redrow’s Kingsbourne development in Nantwich are constructed to Redrow’s quality standards and completed in a timely manner; and that aftersales services are provided to all homebuyers to a level meeting or exceeding Redrow’s pre-merger standards.The CMA has now published its acceptance of Barratt and Redrow’s undertakings and will not be referring the acquisition to a phase 2 investigation.
Barratt will commence the integration of the businesses.
David Thomas, CEO of Barratt, said: “Today is a significant milestone for Barratt Redrow, as we come together as one organisation. With this combination, we have created an exceptional housebuilder in terms of quality, service and sustainability, able to accelerate the delivery of the homes this country needs.
“Together, we offer a broader range of homes and price points for our customers who we will continue to put at the heart of everything we do. Our focus now is on integrating our businesses as efficiently and effectively as we can to deliver the expected benefits of the Combination.
“We will leverage the best of both companies to deliver significant benefits to our people, our customers and our supply chain partners, and ensuring that Barratt Redrow is set up to deliver long term value to all of its stakeholders.”
