Commenting on the masterplan proposals, Beth McDonald, Managing Director at Derbion said: “As Derbion continues to attract leading retail and leisure brands, our position in the heart of the Derby means that we have an important opportunity to evolve and develop our wider footprint to improve the vitality of the city centre and increase connectivity.
“The masterplan proposals are a framework for development over the next 10 years and beyond to revitalise three key sites that will support the wider regeneration of Derby and attract and engage more people to visit and explore the city.”
An exhibition of the masterplan proposals will be open to the public on Level 2 of Derbion, opposite Zara, on Thursday 5th December from 11am to 4pm and Friday 6th December from 11am to 3pm. Derbion unveils updated plans to revitalise key sites
Updated plans for the potential development of three key sites within Derbion’s footprint will be unveiled at a public exhibition this week.
The Derbion Masterplan is a framework for the long-term development of under-used land that will complement and support the existing centre and its significant position within Derby. It is a starting point for exploring future opportunities over the next 10 years and beyond, that will benefit both Derbion and the ongoing regeneration of Derby City Centre.
Plans were originally presented in 2022 and considered the potential of two sites, Eagle Quarter and Bradshaw Way. They have now been updated with a revised layout and reduction in height of the proposed buildings. A third site, the Riverside Quarter, is also included.
Planning permission has already been granted for the Eastern Gateway project, which forms the first phase of the proposed Eagle Quarter development. Work is now underway to create a new public square on the corner of East Street and Morledge and provide an enhanced gateway to the city from the bus station.
The Derbion Masterplan proposes how the rest of the Eagle Market site could be developed for around 500 new homes and commercial uses, within a framework of green, accessible routes and new public spaces. The updated plans for the Eagle Quarter also include the retention of Derby Theatre, providing a green cultural square at the heart of the project.
The proposals for Bradshaw Way include around 480 new homes and commercial space around landscaped public areas, transforming the gateway site and improving links to the Nightingale Quarter.
Following the closure of the Riverside car park last year, the masterplan has been extended to encompass the Riverside Quarter, presenting an opportunity to provide around 380 new homes with new public spaces and walkable streets that will improve connections towards the river and into the rest of the city centre.
Commenting on the masterplan proposals, Beth McDonald, Managing Director at Derbion said: “As Derbion continues to attract leading retail and leisure brands, our position in the heart of the Derby means that we have an important opportunity to evolve and develop our wider footprint to improve the vitality of the city centre and increase connectivity.
“The masterplan proposals are a framework for development over the next 10 years and beyond to revitalise three key sites that will support the wider regeneration of Derby and attract and engage more people to visit and explore the city.”
An exhibition of the masterplan proposals will be open to the public on Level 2 of Derbion, opposite Zara, on Thursday 5th December from 11am to 4pm and Friday 6th December from 11am to 3pm.
Commenting on the masterplan proposals, Beth McDonald, Managing Director at Derbion said: “As Derbion continues to attract leading retail and leisure brands, our position in the heart of the Derby means that we have an important opportunity to evolve and develop our wider footprint to improve the vitality of the city centre and increase connectivity.
“The masterplan proposals are a framework for development over the next 10 years and beyond to revitalise three key sites that will support the wider regeneration of Derby and attract and engage more people to visit and explore the city.”
An exhibition of the masterplan proposals will be open to the public on Level 2 of Derbion, opposite Zara, on Thursday 5th December from 11am to 4pm and Friday 6th December from 11am to 3pm. Internationally experienced employment lawyer joins Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors
Internationally experienced employment lawyer Kate Cauldwell-Hunt has joined the specialist law firm Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors as its new senior associate.
It’s a professional reunion for Kate and her new firm’s founder Michael Cummins, who worked together at Gateley more than 20 years ago.
After training and qualifying as a solicitor at Gateley, Kate worked as an employment lawyer, including at Averta Employment Lawyers, before moving to Pinsent Masons Vario where Kate worked both in the UK and then in Singapore where she led on the provision of flexible legal services for the international firm Pinsent Masons.
As an account director for Pinsent Masons Vario, Kate managed the recruitment and deployment of lawyers and other legal professionals for assignments with the firm’s clients or internally within Pinsent Masons.
Latterly Kate managed recruitment of lawyers and business services professionals for the London office of another international law firm, Clyde & Co.
Now the solicitor has joined the seven-strong Leicestershire-based Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors which since 2022 has provided employers with advice and representation on all aspects of employment law.
Michael said: “It is wonderful to welcome Kate to our firm more than 20 years after watching her set out on what has become an impressive career of great variety in location and expertise.
“I know she is looking forward to getting back into the thick of employment law here in the UK and in a setting where she is a key player in a focussed team with a collegiate feel and our approach to providing high quality work for our family of clients.
“It is also exciting for us to welcome Kate just a month after her fellow new senior associate Katie Baker-Clifton. Their arrival is a significant step forward for our firm.”
Kate said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Mike again and excited to be working with such a friendly and welcoming team. It is a privilege to work with this team with its fantastic reputation and wealth of experience.”
UK’s ‘critical £1.3 trillion mid-market’ can be engine of growth for East Midlands economy
Mid-market corporates (MCCs) play a significant role across the East Midlands jobs market, employing nearly a quarter of the workforce.
And a new report issued by NatWest, in partnership with Oliver Wyman and supported by the Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds MP has identified that UK mid-market businesses have an oversized impact on the UK economy, are particularly important to regional economies and are the unsung engine of the economy:
- c.13,000 of these businesses exist across the UK;
- while being only 0.5% of the total number of UK companies each MMC business contributes the equivalent of 200 SMEs to the economy;
- every year they contribute £1.3 trillion of turnover and £420 billion of Gross Value Added (GVA) to the economy, nearly one third of all companies;
- with the correct support, MMCs could contribute an additional £115bn to turnover and £35bn of GVA by 2030. For areas outside of London and the South East, the growth potential could be up to £70bn and £24bn for turnover and GVA respectively, and
- employ 7.3 million Britons – 26% of the total and are essential employers across the UK’s regions.
- Insufficient access to skills – MMCs struggle to fill vacancies at every level (specialist and entry level) and the problem is getting worse;
- Infrastructure and planning restrictions – MMCs are typically more regionally based, limitations in regional infrastructure (e.g., housing, rail/bus links, grid connectivity, broadband) disproportionally affects this segment. Compounded by problems with the planning system;
- Complexity growing faster than their capacity – the level of complexity can exponentially increase as they establish new business lines, enter new markets or breach thresholds for regulation or red tape;
- Lack of self-identity and collective profile – MMCs do not self identify as a distinct segment (unlike the German Mittelstand), and therefore cannot collectively advocate for additional support and policies which would enable growth;
- Lack of data and transparency – this segment loses in terms of policy support and other targeted measures as the lack of data means it is difficult for public and private sector stakeholders to understand the importance of the MMC segment to the economy and define policy and other targeted measures to support growth and productivity.
Care group secures facilities to refinance and support future growth
OakNorth, the digital bank for entrepreneurs, has provided funds to MPS Care Group, a provider of residential nursing and care homes for adults.
Founded in the 80s, MPS Care owns and operates a number of care homes with over 180 beds providing care in the North East, North West and the East Midlands.
According to research from Knight Frank this year, while bed supply has grown 3% over the last decade, the over 65 population has grown by around 16% over the same period, meaning demand greatly outstrips supply. With an ageing population, it is expected that by 2050, there will be a shortfall of more than 200,000 beds across the UK.
Paul Gray, Chairman of MPS Care, commented on the transaction: “Since our founding almost 40 years ago, our goal has been to be the care provider of choice, by providing the highest level of care to all our residents and continually improving the quality of our service.
“Covid-19 was a particularly challenging period for the sector, but by consolidating our portfolio and ensuring we provide comfortable, safe and homely environments for all our residents, we were able to come out the other side even stronger.
“As we look ahead to the future, we’re excited to have the backing of OakNorth – they’ve supported some of the strongest operators in the business, so receiving this funding from them puts us in great company.”
Dale Cowdell, Director of Debt Finance at OakNorth, continued: “The UK elderly care sector has faced its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but with an ageing population and demand for beds already far outstripping supply, it’s vital that providers such as MPS receive the support they need.
“Paul has done an exceptional job running the business over the last four decades, making the tough decisions when needed, and taking advantage of opportunities when they’ve come. He is a true entrepreneur and with the excellent leadership of Hannah Marchant and the wider team, the business is well-positioned for growth over the next 40 years.”
John Anderson and Jonathan Thompson from AT Commercial Finance advised on the transaction.
Museum awarded grant to secure its future sustainability
Framework Knitters Museum has been awarded a £244,168 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to secure a sustainable future for the museum.
The Framework Knitters Museum is the only museum in the county that is dedicated to Nottinghamshire’s rich textile manufacturing heritage. The knitting frame, invented in Calverton, was a crucial step in the development of Nottingham’s world-famous lace industry.
Like many museums, financial pressures which threaten its survival are mounting. Without this support from the Heritage Fund, the future of the museum would be at risk.
The project, titled ‘A Stitch in Time’, aims to deliver a range of outcomes to help reduce costs and secure sustainability, such as the replacement of an outdated gas boiler, wiring repairs and new roof insulation.
An additional member of the team will be employed to manage the project, which also includes enhancing the resilience and creative vision of the museum through the support of external experts and advisors.
Chair of Museum Trustees Ian Rowson said: “We are extremely grateful to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, this project will ensure that the endangered craft of frame knitting is kept alive through securing the future of the museum.”
Micromix sows seeds of success with £235,000 funding package
A Nottingham-based manufacturer of plant micronutrients and biostimulants is investing in growth with the purchase of new machinery thanks to a £235,000 funding package from HSBC UK.
The new automatic liquid filling machine will enable Micromix Plant Health to increase its output of plant nutrients and bio stimulants bottle production by some 250%.
This process was previously very labour intensive, so the new equipment will lead to a vast boost in productivity for the company, representing a significant step forward in Micromix Plant Health’s future growth plans.
With this increased capacity, the business is well positioned to meet increased demand over peak periods, enabling a boost in sales and an opportunity to meet the additional requirements of both existing and new clients either for Micromix products or for additional white label production and packaging.
The new kit will also improve the company’s agility in responding to last minute orders – a critical advantage given the urgency in addressing crop nutrient deficiencies or opportunities to enhance yields as agronomists determine them during the crop growth cycle.
The investment follows a management buyout in March 2024 which has allowed for greater scope for investment and ambitious forward planning.
Tom Mawhood, Director at Micromix Plant Health, said: “Having only completed the MBO of the company a few months ago, we are thrilled to have already been able to make this important investment, automating a key process to significantly boost our capabilities. This will be a gamechanger for us, and we’re excited to continue to modernise our equipment and take on more customers.”
Simon Phillips, Relationship Manager at HSBC UK, said: “The new machinery is a catalyst for Micromix Plant Health’s growth, enabling the business to ramp up production and swiftly meet market demands. This is a prime example of how strategic funding can drive innovation and success, and we are thrilled to support the new management team as it takes its first step in its ambitious growth plan.”
Construction of Nottinghamshire Planetarium completes
Pivotal works on the new £6.8 million state-of-the-art Sherwood Observatory Planetarium & Science Centre in Sutton-in-Ashfield are now finished ready to welcome the public. The occasion was celebrated with an official handover event on Friday 15th November.
Works commenced in August last year and were delivered by Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, and procured through SCAPE.
Using the SCAPE Venture framework, client Mansfield & Sutton Astronomical Society, supported by Ashfield District Council, accelerated the delivery of the scheme through early contractor involvement with G F Tomlinson – driving collaboration, time efficiency and cost savings.
The landmark scheme involved the transformation of a disused underground Victorian reservoir into a visitor attraction, and education centre for the general public, schools and group visits, breathing new life into the historic building which now features an exhibition hall, meeting room and café, alongside the cutting-edge planetarium.
Works included building a new structure above the reservoir to increase the useable space, maintaining original and historical features such as intricate brick arches, while evolving the existing structure into a unique and functional building.
Designed to inspire interest and careers and learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with a wraparound experience, the facility will also help to increase annual footfall to the location.
G F Tomlinson concentrated on supporting the local community during construction, and multiple educational and employment opportunities were provided through a dedicated Social Value Working Group (SVWG).
76% of local spend took place within 20 miles of the construction site and 77% of labour was sourced within the same radius. Over 2,000 tonnes of excavated sand from the site were donated to two separate golf clubs close to the observatory at a value of £20,000.
The contractor delivered 2,100 hours of educational value through school talks, visits, mock interviews and career fairs with local schools and colleges, and 10 work experience placements were also provided alongside six apprenticeships which totalled 30 weeks of onsite experience.
T level students spent time weekly on site with the design management team, and the contractor also organised mental health visits with the Lighthouse Charity and two ‘Women in Construction’ events.
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to have completed works to this unique and significant Nottinghamshire landmark scheme – providing a world-class immersive facility for all ages in the heart of the Midlands.
“The Sherwood Observatory will inspire and entertain visitors, and for many years to come they will enjoy the learnings that come with understanding the wonder and science of space.
“We’ve wholeheartedly enjoyed working alongside the Sherwood Observatory team, Ashfield District Council and other stakeholders who helped in bringing this incredible project to life.”
Dr Steve Wallace, Chair of Sherwood Observatory and client project manager, said: “Right from the initial vision, this project has been about collaboration and teamwork. The new Planetarium & Science Centre has exceeded expectations and the excitement that has been generated in the area as it has taken shape has been tangible.
“We are really pleased to open our doors to visitors and show them the wonders of the universe.”
Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE, said: “The Sherwood Observatory planetarium has been an excellent project to be a part of. Procured via the SCAPE Venture framework, we worked closely with our partner, G F Tomlinson to support greater efficiency, deliver cost savings and help embed social values initiatives.
“Now open, the planetarium provides a one-of-a-kind attraction not only for the local community but for visitors from further afield. We are looking forward to seeing the next generation of scientists and astronomers that the planetarium inspires.”
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “It really is spectacular, and it is something that will transform the lives of not just the people of Ashfield but also further afield.
“It has been incredible to see the building through the various stages of construction and to see the vision really come to life. I am proud to have been some small part of the process.
“The immersive shows really are incredible and I would encourage everyone to make sure they experience the Planetarium and all that it has to offer. This is something so unique and will see more visitors coming to Ashfield as they are transported through space.
“It truly is an educational experience like no other and hopefully will see more young people develop an interest in learning more about space.”
One of 16 projects being funded by the £62.6million Towns Deal which was secured by the council from the Government in 2021, the project benefitted from Levelling Up funding and grants from the Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation and National Lottery Heritage Fund. Solar panels at the scheme were sponsored by Mansfield Building Society and the Changing Places toilet by East Midlands Rail.
The landmark scheme involved the transformation of a disused underground Victorian reservoir into a visitor attraction, and education centre for the general public, schools and group visits, breathing new life into the historic building which now features an exhibition hall, meeting room and café, alongside the cutting-edge planetarium.
Works included building a new structure above the reservoir to increase the useable space, maintaining original and historical features such as intricate brick arches, while evolving the existing structure into a unique and functional building.
Designed to inspire interest and careers and learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with a wraparound experience, the facility will also help to increase annual footfall to the location.
G F Tomlinson concentrated on supporting the local community during construction, and multiple educational and employment opportunities were provided through a dedicated Social Value Working Group (SVWG).
76% of local spend took place within 20 miles of the construction site and 77% of labour was sourced within the same radius. Over 2,000 tonnes of excavated sand from the site were donated to two separate golf clubs close to the observatory at a value of £20,000.
The contractor delivered 2,100 hours of educational value through school talks, visits, mock interviews and career fairs with local schools and colleges, and 10 work experience placements were also provided alongside six apprenticeships which totalled 30 weeks of onsite experience.
T level students spent time weekly on site with the design management team, and the contractor also organised mental health visits with the Lighthouse Charity and two ‘Women in Construction’ events.
Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted to have completed works to this unique and significant Nottinghamshire landmark scheme – providing a world-class immersive facility for all ages in the heart of the Midlands.
“The Sherwood Observatory will inspire and entertain visitors, and for many years to come they will enjoy the learnings that come with understanding the wonder and science of space.
“We’ve wholeheartedly enjoyed working alongside the Sherwood Observatory team, Ashfield District Council and other stakeholders who helped in bringing this incredible project to life.”
Dr Steve Wallace, Chair of Sherwood Observatory and client project manager, said: “Right from the initial vision, this project has been about collaboration and teamwork. The new Planetarium & Science Centre has exceeded expectations and the excitement that has been generated in the area as it has taken shape has been tangible.
“We are really pleased to open our doors to visitors and show them the wonders of the universe.”
Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE, said: “The Sherwood Observatory planetarium has been an excellent project to be a part of. Procured via the SCAPE Venture framework, we worked closely with our partner, G F Tomlinson to support greater efficiency, deliver cost savings and help embed social values initiatives.
“Now open, the planetarium provides a one-of-a-kind attraction not only for the local community but for visitors from further afield. We are looking forward to seeing the next generation of scientists and astronomers that the planetarium inspires.”
Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “It really is spectacular, and it is something that will transform the lives of not just the people of Ashfield but also further afield.
“It has been incredible to see the building through the various stages of construction and to see the vision really come to life. I am proud to have been some small part of the process.
“The immersive shows really are incredible and I would encourage everyone to make sure they experience the Planetarium and all that it has to offer. This is something so unique and will see more visitors coming to Ashfield as they are transported through space.
“It truly is an educational experience like no other and hopefully will see more young people develop an interest in learning more about space.”
One of 16 projects being funded by the £62.6million Towns Deal which was secured by the council from the Government in 2021, the project benefitted from Levelling Up funding and grants from the Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation and National Lottery Heritage Fund. Solar panels at the scheme were sponsored by Mansfield Building Society and the Changing Places toilet by East Midlands Rail. Digital agency finds new home in the Lace Market
A digital marketing agency has relocated in Nottingham as it prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
Nzime has taken a 2,292 sq ft office unit on the first floor of 19 Stoney Street – a period building in the heart of Nottingham’s Lace Market.
The deal was brokered by Thomas Szymkiw, Head of Agency at NG Chartered Surveyors.
Andrew Horner-Glister, the founder of Nzime, said: “After 20 years of being on Woolpack Lane in the same offices a move has come as an opportunity to shake up what ‘the office’ means to Nzime and its team as this is very different than in the early 2000’s.
“We have been looking to move for the last few years and finding the right space has been a challenge as we wanted a space with soul and personality rather than a regular carpeted, ceiling tile environment.”
Andrew said the move will give him the opportunity to listen to his team and create an environment in the heart of the Lace Market which suits their needs.
He added: “We will be able to close the gap between an office environment and a more comfortable social, hospitality, home feel. We have embedded a cafe feel in the heart of the space for the team to come together over food and drink with plenty of options for people to work in different environments.
“For those wanting to get their head down we still have a quieter studio allowing for minimal distractions and then we have a much more open plan environment containing dedicated meeting and video call spaces.
“Running a hybrid working approach means that when people do come into the office they are often wanting lots of face to face time with colleagues and clients so the new space has been built around this.”
Thomas said: “19 Stoney Street is the ideal place for Andrew to take his company to the next level. The market for high-quality period offices in Nottingham – and especially the Lace Market – remains strong as they often add that something extra to a more modern setting.
“19 Stoney Street is the ideal place for Andrew to take his company to the next level and we wish Nzime well in their new home.”
Eureka! Archimedia finds perfect hire to kickstart growth plans
A Nottingham accountancy practice is expanding after making a key hire. Archimedia Accounts, which is based at Nottingham Science & Technology Park, has hired well-known city finance professional Jill Fox as a Client Manager and Accountant. Chris Demetriou, Co-owner and Finance Director, explained that Jill is the perfect fit for Archimedia. He said: “Jill is completely aligned with our firm’s culture. She cares about clients, which isn’t something easily found these days. All accountants have the skills, but to truly want your clients to succeed is where the magic happens.” Chris said that Jill’s experience will be hugely beneficial to Archimedia’s clients. He added: “I know Jill will go the extra mile for clients because she truly cares about what they want to achieve, saving them money and giving them insights that will help their businesses grow.” Jill is the next step in the expansion plan for Archimedia, said Chris: “Next year we’ll be looking to hire two more employees; an Accountant and and a Senior Bookkeeper. It’s an exciting time for us – and our clients.” Speaking about joining the business, Jill Fox said: “I’ve always admired the way that Archidemia focuses on their clients and the core values it has as a thriving family firm. Until now, I’ve only seen it from the outside but they have a great reputation locally and within the industry for thoughtful, tailored service. I’m excited to become part of the growing team.”
Future of East Midlands energy production explored at summit
Businesses, policy makers and educators gathered in Derby for East Midlands Chamber’s 2024 Midlands Energy Summit on 28th November.
Held in partnership with the University of Nottingham’s Energy Institute and East Midlands Freeport, and sponsored by HyDEX and Tomato Energy, the summit took place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing.
Keynote speakers and panel discussions examined energy storage, provision, distribution and technological developments in areas like fission, fusion and hydrogen.
East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore opened the summit. Speaking afterwards he said: “Energy plays a vital role in growing the East Midlands economy and embracing and exploring the storage and production scope we have right on our doorstep is a key part of our Manifesto for Growth – our asks to policy makers that have ensuring the East Midlands thrives at their core.
“Fast-evolving technology has brought a range of attractive clean energy opportunities that make the clean growth journey to Net Zero something businesses can really benefit from.
“The summit today was about marrying the insight businesses in the East Midlands energy sector have as they embark into new technologies and seize its potential, with the detailed research and analysis that our superb universities and academics bring, so that as a region we can lead the way on future energy provision and distribution.”
Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK Senior Manager, Environment and Carbon Neutrality Project John Malpas delivered a talk on initiatives to support the company’s goal to become neutral. After the summit he said: “We have 30 years of experience of energy reduction and decarbonisation.
“It’s that experience we can share with others, in what pathways we’ve taken, what mistakes or hurdles we came across and then what strategies we’ve adopted, what technologies we’ve adopted, so we can share that information with others and help them along their own pathway.
“As you’re decarbonising, there are opportunities to reduce the cost base through energy cost reduction, utility cost reduction and in all our experiences as we’ve gone down this pathway we’ve reduced our costs, and we’re trying to accelerate that to improve our cash flow in the early years, because in the later years when we transition to new technologies, there’ll be investment to make.”
University of Nottingham Professor of Sustainable Building Design Mark Gillott gave a talk on the role of research in shaping future energy landscape. He said: “Research is vital in terms of developing the systems, ideas and technologies of the future to address the big issues such as climate change, but more importantly, working collaboratively across disciplines and with industry is essential to get these research ideas developed in the real world.
“From the University of Nottingham perspective, we’ve focused in on three key themes: communities and the built environment, transport and power and energy storage.”
East Midlands Freeport Chief Executive Tom Newman-Taylor spoke on how to accelerate the region’s journey to Net Zero. He said: “The Freeport can be a catalyst, and in some ways, the glue, to help this region on its journey towards Net Zero, and put ourselves at the forefront of that journey for the nation to become a clean energy superpower.
“We’re working closely with sectors like advanced manufacturing, advanced logistics and energy producers. We have three really compelling development sites, which themselves have Net Zero targets, and we’re also working with partners on the wider enablers of the transition, from green skills to high-end research to low carbon transport solutions.”
HyDEX and Energy Research Accelerator Marketing and Communications Manager Nick King gave a talk on an energy toolkit HyDEX has developed to guide local leaders in their decisions around hydrogen. Afterwards he said: “Through our HyDEX programme we have been bringing together companies, researchers and the public sector in the Midlands who have an interest in hydrogen, to help develop and kickstart the regional hydrogen economy and support innovation, skills and policy.
“It’s vitally important that businesses and universities work together to share knowledge about the latest developments and technologies in energy. The Midlands Energy Summit is an invaluable forum for helping to connect everyone with an interest in energy in the region.”
Tomato Energy Partnerships and Frameworks Manager Iain Wheeler participated in a panel on energy development to meet the changing needs of business and society. He said: “Getting the energy sector together at events like this is absolutely fundamental, as there are examples of best practice where companies have done something innovative, and they’ve already worked out their pathways to decarbonisation – they’ve done it, they’ve committed time and effort and resources into it.
“Those kinds of companies need to be championed and showcased to show the rest of the business community what they’ve achieved. In the panel discussion I was trying to break it down to things we can implement right now, technologies that are commercially available right now, things that are cost effective to do right now.”
