Sunday, March 9, 2025

Midlands Consortiums secure £40.8m to boost electric charge points

Tess Egginton
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Midlands Consortiums secure £40.8m to boost electric charge points
Thirteen local authorities across the Midlands region have received £40.8m of Government funding aimed at getting more electric vehicle charge points into areas with limited off-street parking. A partnership of eight local authorities across the Midlands region, led by Lincolnshire County Council and Worcestershire County Council, have successfully bid for £20.64m of funding. These two consortiums are the last to be approved for funding after five other local authority partners, being led by Nottinghamshire County Council, secured £20.17m, therefore totalling £40.8m of funding for the partnership overall. The funding comes from Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, which will help deliver more than 16,000 charge point sockets across the region, with exact numbers determined as part of future contracts. The bid was submitted in 2024. The thirteen local authorities include Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Herefordshire Council, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Staffordshire County Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Telford & Wrekin Council, Worcestershire County Council, Warwickshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council and Rutland County Council. Almost 31% of Midlands residents do not have access to off-street parking. It is hoped that increasing the number of public on-street charge points will make it easier for those without a driveway to make the switch to an electric vehicle. This will also increase the ease of travel and charging for all EV users in the county. Two of the Midlands Consortiums tenders are out now with the final consortium to go to procurement Spring 2025, with a five-year delivery aim to install these across the partnership area. Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: “Making charging as seamless and as easy as possible is a crucial to making the switch to electric a success, and rolling out over 16,000 chargers across the Midlands will make driving an EV cheaper and easier, especially for those without a driveway. “Electric vehicles will power growth, cut emissions and improve lives in the Midlands and beyond, as we continue to deliver our Plan for Change.” Councillor Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “I’m pleased that Worcestershire, alongside other local authorities, has been successful in this bid for significant funding towards boosting electric vehicle infrastructure. “It’s hoped that installing more public chargepoints, will not only support those who already have an electric vehicle, but also encourage others to make the move towards purchasing one.” Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said: “We are delighted that our collaboration with local authorities has resulted in a significant funding boost for electric vehicle infrastructure across the region. “This is a great step in moving towards a reliable electric vehicle charging infrastructure network across the Midlands, which will become increasingly important as we move closer to the 2035 ban of diesel and petrol vehicles. “We will continue to work with local authorities to accelerate the roll-out of electric vehicle infrastructure across the Midlands.”

Leicestershire Business Voice appoints new chair

Tess Egginton
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Leicestershire Business Voice appoints new chair
Leicestershire Business Voice (LBV), the business advocacy group for Leicester and Leicestershire, has appointed Sue Tilley as its new chair. Sue brings significant experience to her new role including economic strategy, inward investment, business innovation, partnerships between business and education, and business development, in both the public and private sectors. Sue will direct the LBV board members as they develop and deliver a strategy to support the business community in Leicester and Leicestershire. This will include advocating for members and the wider business sector with key local, regional and national stakeholders, running a programme of strategic business-themed events throughout the year and growing the membership of LBV through the new 100 Club initiative. Sue will replace outgoing chair, Robin Pointon, who steps down after four years as chair. Robin will remain on the board of LBV. Robin Pointon said: “I am delighted that Sue Tilley is our new LBV chair. Her knowledge of the local business community and key stakeholders is exceptional. More than this, she commands great respect across all sectors and so well suited for this role.” Sue is founder and director of Sue Tilley Associates and a member of the board of trustees at the Leicestershire Education Business Company. She was previously head of inward investment, economic strategy manager – business, head of business, innovation and partnerships, and head of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP). Prior to that, Sue was head of inward investment at Prospect Leicestershire, worked in sales director, business development director and general manager roles, and was owner and managing director of the Classy Rags clothing company. Sue Tilley said: “LBV is an ideal platform with which local businesses can get involved and make a difference. I’m so proud to have been selected to lead such a trusted business group as LBV and look forward to working with the rest of the board, a group of vibrant business leaders, all invested in the growth of the local business sector. “Through my professional work, I’m a strong advocate for business in Leicester and Leicestershire. I understand how important relationships are with key stakeholders such as councils, MPs and universities, and having been in a start-up business of my own, I’m passionate about driving opportunities for the local SME community.”

Lincolnshire leaders talk of positive future ahead as new authority meets for the first time

Michael Fisher
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Lincolnshire leaders talk of positive future ahead as new authority meets for the first time
Local powers and investment to support business, up-skill people, and improve highways and housing are key priorities of the new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, (GLCCA). Leaders of the three lead local authorities – Lincolnshire County Council and North and North East Lincolnshire unitary authorities – spoke of their ambitions for the future as they marked the first meeting of the GLCCA. Cllrs Martin Hill, Rob Waltham and Philip Jackson – all members of the GLCCA board – were addressing an audience of business leaders and representatives from local communities, MPs and colleagues following the inaugural meeting, which was held at Lincoln Cathedral on Thursday (March 6). They talked of the real possibilities that now exist across the whole of the Greater Lincolnshire footprint with a Mayor, to be elected on May 1, chairing an authority that can work to effect positive change. Giving an overview of the positive work that will begin in earnest by the GLCCA, Lincolnshire County Council Leader, Cllr Martin Hill said: “We’re now starting a new era in Greater Lincolnshire – erasing boundaries as we continue to strive to get the best for our residents and businesses. “Connecting companies, organisations and decision makers is key to making the most of these new powers and funding we have from the government. Our area contributes significantly to the nation and this deserves to be recognised – whether it’s our contribution to defence, food security or logistics. Being able to boost these areas not only benefits Greater Lincolnshire, but the whole country.” Cllr Philip Jackson spoke of the ‘economic powerhouse’ sectors of decarbonisation, offshore wind turbines, food processing, and ports and logistics and how the GLCCA can work with all business to enable and support continued growth. He said: “Over the last decade we have once again seen the great benefits of our position along the south bank of the Humber estuary, with regional, national and world-leading organisations creating opportunity and growth. As one of the GLCCA’s key priorities states, now is the time we can work to further turbo charge that growth for the benefit of all within Greater Lincolnshire.” Cllr Rob Waltham, the Leader of North Lincolnshire, added: “I’m proud to have been part of the negotiations that lead to this historic moment, which marks the beginning of a new era for Lincolnshire. “Devolution means we can make decisions locally and focus on the needs and ambitious of our communities, not be dictated by London. The new mayoral authority will invest in skills to prepare young people for the world of work, transport to improve connectivity and business growth to create more better paid jobs for our local residents and this is just the start. I’m looking forward to working with communities across the region to build a stronger, more prosperous Greater Lincolnshire.”

Leicestershire care provider rated ‘requires improvement’ over medicine and record-keeping failures

April Lara
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Leicestershire care provider rated ‘requires improvement’ over medicine and record-keeping failures

Premium Home Care Services Limited, also known as Home Instead Senior Care, has received a “requires improvement” rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection. The watchdog flagged concerns over medicine management, record-keeping, and leadership at the domiciliary care provider based in Beaumont Leys, Leicestershire.

The inspection found that the service failed to meet legal requirements for the safe administration and management of medicines. Inspectors reported a lack of guidance for medication use, poor oversight, and failure to follow best practices, resulting in a breach of the Health and Social Care Act 2008.

The CQC cited inadequate systems to update care records when multiple healthcare professionals were involved, leading to confusion over care responsibilities. Additionally, inspectors found safeguarding incidents were not always reported or addressed in line with policy due to weak managerial oversight.

Leadership and governance were also criticised, with the report highlighting a lack of audits and oversight that resulted in another regulatory breach. Multiple management changes have impacted the service’s effectiveness. However, the report acknowledged a positive workplace culture, with staff feeling valued and respected.

Despite the overall “requires improvement” rating, the service was rated “good” for its effectiveness, responsiveness, and quality of care. During inspection in late 2023, the service supported 65 people with personal care in their homes.

UK space partnership to accelerate technology deployment

April Lara
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UK space partnership to accelerate technology deployment

Space Park Leicester and Perpetual Atomics partnered with Sidereus Space Dynamics to enhance the UK’s space technology and scientific missions capabilities. The collaboration includes dual Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Sidereus, Space Park Leicester, and Perpetual Atomics, focusing on rapid prototyping, validation, and deployment of space technologies.

The partnership will support additive manufacturing of space engine components, heat shield innovation, and advanced materials for space applications. UK-based organisations will gain access to Sidereus’ EOS system, a single-stage-to-orbit launch vehicle that enables cost-effective testing of mission-critical materials in microgravity and very low Earth orbit.

Sidereus aims to provide flexible access to space, removing reliance on restrictive launch schedules. Perpetual Atomics will focus on advancing radioisotope power technologies and energy systems for deep space missions. The initiative is expected to strengthen the UK’s space engineering and innovation position.

Boots sale worth £8bn possible after 300 store closures

April Lara
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Boots sale worth £8bn possible after 300 store closures

Boots, the well-known UK pharmacy and retail chain, is poised for a potential £8 billion sale, with reports suggesting a deal could be finalised this week. This follows the closure of 300 stores as part of a significant cost-saving effort by its parent company, Walgreens Boots Alliance, which is facing financial challenges. The private equity firm Sycamore Partners is expected to acquire the business, raising questions about Boots’ long-term presence on the UK high street.

Despite the closures, Boots in Nottingham, has seen a marked performance improvement. The company’s retail sales surged by 8.1% between September and November 2024, driven by strong online growth and its pharmacy services. Online sales increased by 23%, while pharmacy sales grew by 5.8%, bolstering the company’s appeal to investors.

This shift in performance could lead to a separation from Walgreens and Shields Health Solutions, with speculation that Boots might be listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Next major step taken in Derbyshire Waste Treatment Facility Project

Tess Egginton
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Next major step taken in Derbyshire Waste Treatment Facility Project
Three major waste management firms have been selected to progress to the next stage of the procurement process to appoint a contractor to fix and operate Sinfin waste treatment centre. Following a first stage selection process, Biffa, Thalia and Viridor have been identified by Derby City Council and Derbyshire County Council as the most suitable qualified companies to move forward to the Competitive Dialogue phase. This marks a significant step in the councils’ joint project to secure a long-term waste management solution for Derby and Derbyshire, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and value for residents. The timeline for the next steps in the procurement are:
  • Competitive Dialogue – October 2025
  • Contract award (Cabinet decision) – December 2025
  • End of due diligence and commencement of rectification phase – June 2027
  • Start of commissioning – June 2028
  • First waste acceptance – November 2028
  • Completion of commissioning and transition to normal operations – Winter 2028 – Winter 2031
Over the next six months the councils and selected bidders will enter ‘Competitive Dialogue’ – structured discussions designed to provide equal treatment of all three companies to clarify, specify and enhance their proposed solution to fix and operate the facility. The process enables both the Councils and bidders to assess approaches and ensure opportunities that strike the right balance between cost and quality are explored. A spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council said: “We were confident we had developed a procurement process and commercial proposition that would be attractive to the right companies. “Shortlisting three major players in the UK waste market proves there’s a competitive market for this project, and operators with the skills and experience to successfully deliver it and its expected benefits. “Fixing and operating the facility was found to be the most viable, cost-effective, and sustainable long-term solution to manage household waste which residents in Derby and Derbyshire either cannot or choose not to recycle.” A spokesperson for Derby City Council said: “This is an important milestone in our commitment to securing a sustainable and cost-effective waste management solution for Derby and Derbyshire. “Reaching this stage with three leading waste management companies demonstrates both the strength of our approach and the level of industry interest in this project. “The council is keen to ensure a sustainable way to dispose of residents’ waste in the long term and seeks to find the most cost effective solution.”

UK opens first public electric charging hub for HGVs

April Lara
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UK opens first public electric charging hub for HGVs

The UK’s first public electric charging hub for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) has been launched at Able Humber Port in Immingham, North Lincolnshire.

Developed by Milence, a joint venture between Daimler Truck, Traton Group, and Volvo Group, the hub features eight charging bays, four of which are high-performance chargers, and two bays are served by a megawatt charger. It can fully charge an electric HGV in about 90 minutes.

The hub is strategically located off the A180 with direct access to the motorway network, making it an important site for HGV operators. In June 2023, North Lincolnshire Council granted the development planning consent.

Milence plans to expand its network across Europe, including routes connecting Immingham to Birmingham. The company aims to establish 1,700 charging points by 2027.

The new hub is seen as a key step in supporting the transition to electric vehicles in the logistics sector, with significant potential for further infrastructure growth in the UK and Europe.

Trio of industrial assets acquired by joint venture

Tess Egginton
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0
Trio of industrial assets acquired by joint venture
A joint venture between global investment firm Sixth Street and Copley Point Capital, an owner and operator of UK industrial property, has acquired a portfolio of three logistics assets from National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society totalling 0.9 million square feet. Two of the assets totalling 0.5 million square feet are leased to Fowler Welch and Great Bear, and are located within Magna Park, Lutterworth, the distribution park located in the Golden Triangle. The third asset is leased to Amazon and located in Doncaster. The acquisition brings the joint venture’s portfolio to six assets across 2.5 million square feet – each acquired since its formation in November 2024. Guillaume Savoie-Coulonval, Managing Director at Copley Point, said: “We are delighted to expand our partnership with Sixth Street and add to our high-quality portfolio. These three distribution warehouses exemplify the type of investments we are targeting across the UK. We remain acquisitive and continue to offer a reliable solution to sellers in the current market environment.” BSBRE advised the seller on the transaction.

Stagecoach offers free sustainability training to suppliers

April Lara
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0

Stagecoach, part of the UK’s leading bus operators, has joined an innovative initiative to offer free sustainability training to its suppliers, marking a first in the UK. As part of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) UK Network’s Sustainable Suppliers Training Programme, the initiative aims to educate suppliers on sustainability and the 10 principles of the UNGC, supporting Stagecoach’s journey to reduce its environmental impact and meet its net-zero targets.

The programme will provide Stagecoach’s suppliers with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to enhance their sustainability practices. The operator’s commitment is seen as a step toward strengthening the environmental credentials of its supply chain, which includes businesses accounting for £200 million in procurement spend.

This move represents a strategic effort by Stagecoach to integrate sustainability into its procurement practices, demonstrating the potential for collaboration between businesses to drive collective action towards a more sustainable future.

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