New Enterprise Centre completes at Arnold’s AMP building
Gedling Borough Council has completed its new Enterprise Centre at the flagship AMP building in Arnold. This space, designed to support local startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is now ready for use.
The council have invested funds, supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), into fitting out the previously vacant first floor of the AMP, transforming it into modern office spaces and a meeting room. The facilities also include parking, an EV charging point and a shower room, so that tenants can choose sustainable travel options.
The AMP, located on the former Arnold Market site, opened in 2022 and has since become home to several successful small businesses on its ground floor. With the completion of the first-floor development, the centre will further support Gedling Borough Council’s priorities, including revitalising town centres, increasing footfall to the Arnold shopping precinct, and creating opportunities for local businesses.
The building has been designed to use less energy, use more renewable energy and reduce its CO2 emissions. It has several energy efficient designs including 51 solar panels, natural ventilation points, and high efficiency LED lighting. The building is also fitted with rainwater retention tanks to offset carbon emissions and has an Energy Performance Rating ‘B’, which is above average for commercial property.
Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the Enterprise Centre at the AMP. This new space will provide a vital resource for local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs looking for office space in the heart of Arnold. We’ve seen the success of the ground floor units and we are confident the first floor will follow suit, bringing more jobs and growth to the area.”
Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy at Gedling Borough Council, said: “This sustainable project is part of our wider effort to support high streets, including free two-hour parking in all our car parks.
“The AMP’s expansion is yet another step in our commitment to boosting the local economy and providing essential support for businesses. The energy efficiency measures will benefit new tenants and contribute to the council’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030”.
The completion of this project comes as part of broader regeneration plans for the northern part of Arnold, including the council’s recent purchase of vacant units and the development of a masterplan aimed at attracting further investment into the town.
TBG Furniture secures private equity investment to drive growth
TBG Furniture, a leading manufacturer of upholstered furniture and soft furnishings, has secured investment from Blandford Capital in a deal that marks NorthEdge Capital’s exit from the business.
The company, which generates approximately £80 million in annual revenue, operates across the UK and internationally, supplying retailers, the leisure industry, and the furniture trade. It employs nearly 1,000 people across North Wales, Lancashire, Derbyshire, and Romania facilities.
Under the new ownership, CEO Tom Prestwich and the existing management team will continue to lead the business. The investment from Blandford Capital is expected to support further expansion and strengthen TBG’s position in both domestic and export markets.
The acquisition includes TBG’s key brands: Westbridge Furniture, Tetrad, Belfield Leisure, and Clinchplain. Blandford Capital’s involvement is aimed at capitalising on growth opportunities in the UK’s upholstered furniture sector while expanding international reach.
NorthEdge Capital, which has backed TBG Furniture since its ownership of the Belfield Group, has now exited the business as part of the transaction.
Dawson Group expands East Midlands operations with Newark storage site
Asset leasing firm Dawson Group is expanding its presence in the East Midlands with a new storage site in Newark. The company has secured nearly five acres of land on Brunel Drive to support its industrial equipment leasing operations, which will continue to be managed from its Sutton-in-Ashfield base.
The location, situated less than a mile from the A1, provides easy access to key transport routes, enhancing Dawson Group’s ability to serve regional and national clients.
The lease agreement was facilitated by property agencies Eddisons and CPP on behalf of the landlord. The demand for secure open storage sites remains high, particularly in logistics and infrastructure-related sectors, as businesses seek strategically positioned locations to support supply chain operations.
Apprenticeship sector celebrated at glittering awards ceremony
As part of its National Apprenticeship Week (10th to 16th February) festivities, the College welcomed apprentices, teaching staff and employers to recognise their outstanding achievements over the past year.
The event was hosted by Laura Shepherd, Loughborough College’s Director of Strategic Partnerships and External Relationships, who led the celebrations by highlighting the successes of all involved.
She said: “Apprenticeships form a key part of what makes Loughborough College so special, and we are proud of our expanding provision across several key sectors in the Midlands, including Engineering, Warehousing and Logistics, and Education and Care.
“Not only were we impressed by the amount of award nominations we received, but the calibre of talent as well. Getting to read about the fantastic work that goes on across the industry was truly inspiring. Well done to all of our nominees, finalists and winners.”
The eight awards were split into three main categories: Employer of the Year, Special Awards and Apprentice of the Year. Each one highlighted the award winner’s dedication to the apprenticeship sector and their commitment to developing the workforce of tomorrow.
Corrie Harris, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “Apprenticeships represent a unique and invaluable route into a successful career, and we were thrilled to celebrate our students, employers and staff at the awards ceremony.
“Our apprenticeship programmes do not just transform careers; they transform lives and provide apprentices with the confidence to excel in their professions and contribute to local, national, and regional communities.”
£12.6m delivery contract signed for Nottingham’s first new bridge since the 1950s
Nottingham City Council have entered into a £12.6m delivery contract with Balfour Beatty to deliver the city’s new 85 metre long walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent.
It is expected that over 100 people will be employed during the project, including four apprentices.
The network arch bridge will be 20 metres high from its deck to its peak, weighing in at 160 tonnes, or about as much as a blue whale.
The new foot and cycle bridge will link the north side of the river where the new Trent Basin community of 350 homes continues to take shape, and the south side of the river with sports facilities, riverside walks and green spaces close by.
This contract signing signals the start of construction for the bridge scheme, with the first activity on site the demolition of the warehouse previously used by Flo Skate Park – this is required to create the space necessary for the construction of the bridge.
Construction timeline:
- February/March: Site clearance including vegetation clearance and demolishing a warehouse formerly used by Flo Skate Park
- March: Balfour Beatty will bring equipment, materials and cabins to site
- April onwards: Pilings are screwed into the ground to support the bridge structure
- Summer – Autumn: The bridge will be built on site using large, prefabricated sections of steel arriving from local company Briton Fabricators Ltd, based just eight miles away in Hucknall
- November: The completed bridge and basin bridge will be lifted into place on its supports by a huge crane
- Winter 25/26: Ramps, steps and hard and soft landscaping completed including paving, planting and lighting
- Spring 2026: The new bridge opens
Former lace factory to address crucial gap in homelessness support system following sale
BB&J Commercial has sold Lee House, 10 Alpine Street, Old Basford to Framework Housing Association.
Previously owned by Fredk. Johnson Lace Ltd, Lee House has been a key part of Nottingham’s lace and textile industry since 1989, providing workspace for various textile and fabric businesses and contributing to the city’s manufacturing heritage.
With its industrial legacy coming to an end, Framework Housing Association plans to redevelop the site into 20 self-contained units under the Homes England ‘Single Homeless Accommodation Programme’.
This development will provide long-term housing solutions for individuals facing severe disadvantage, addressing a crucial gap in the homelessness support system. Designed with safety and community integration in mind, the project will incorporate controlled access and CCTV, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for residents and neighbouring businesses.
Cameron Godfrey, agent at BB&J Commercial responsible for the sale, said: “We received a significant amount of interest in Lee House, but it was clear that Framework’s proposal would deliver lasting benefits to the community.
“Seeing this historic site repurposed into a development that will positively impact vulnerable individuals is truly rewarding. I extend my best wishes to my client as they move on from Lee House and look forward to seeing Framework Housing Association bring their vision to life, delivering much-needed housing and support to those in need.”
The seller, Neil Johnson, said: “I would like to say thank you to Cameron and Mark. Your advice was invaluable, and your exposure to the market was surprising. Putting my mind back to the beginning, I think we had five offers in the space of 2 weeks.
“In the end our buyer was a very professional outfit, they kept us in the loop all the way to the end.”
Planning permission granted for new Corby apartments
National property consultancy Lanpro has secured a resolution to grant planning permission on behalf of Glenrowan Homes for the development of 150 apartments on Alexandra Road in Corby, Northamptonshire.
The 0.89 ha site, the location of a former Co-op retail unit in Corby town centre, will provide 150 new apartments: 74 one bedroom flats, 75 two beds and one three bed. The scheme will also include 2,165 sq ft of commercial space on the ground floor.
The scheme itself does not provide affordable housing, but £360,000 in financial contributions will be made by Glenrowan Homes towards local affordable housing, education and/or health funding.
The development value is circa £20m.
Sav Patel, Associate Director in Lanpro’s Cambridge office, said: “We are delighted to have won this planning consent on behalf of Glenrowan Homes.
“After a planning long journey, and a near refusal at the first planning committee due to a technical issue, it was very pleasing to get a positive resolution on this major regeneration project which will help to build on the regeneration work of Corby town centre.
“Once complete, the building will be a focal point for the town centre which we hope will lead to other nearby regeneration sites coming forward.”
Chris Carty, Managing Director of Glenrowan Homes, said: “We are delighted that North Northamptonshire Council has recognised the value of the development proposal, which will make a real difference to Corby town centre.
“Corby is undergoing a transformation and growing quicky thanks to demand for new homes. This development will not only help meet need but will help enliven the town centre and support its ongoing regeneration.”
Construction work is due to begin on site in late 2025 and the scheme is targeted to complete in late 2027.
In achieving planning success, Lanpro worked alongside architecture practice McBains and project manager Developer Connections.
Bakewell company secures £250k loan to support regeneration projects
Bakewell-based Digital Urban has secured a £250,000 debt finance package from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II.
The money has come from Maven Capital, Fund Manager for East and South East Midlands, Maven Capital Partners, and will support Digital Urban’s use of cutting edge technology to support urban regeneration projects by creating detailed digital twins and immersive planning solutions. The company’s key services include model development, platform services, and consultation services.
Digital Urban intends to invest in its sales and technical teams, develop scalable products to align with its services, and expand its client base nationally, including planning authorities across the UK.
Digital Urban’s ability to integrate comprehensive data, ranging from public transport usage to environmental impact metrics is used to create highly accurate 3D interactive models, enabling local authorities and stakeholders to visualise complex projects in detail. These models have proven to significantly boost community engagement, with participation from younger demographics rising from 6% to more than 40% in consultation processes.
Simon Mabey, Founder of Digital Urban, said:“Our growth so far has been driven by client referrals and repeat business, which is a testament to the value we deliver. The funding from Maven and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II allows us to actively promote our product suite to a wider audience and reach new markets.
“Local authorities value how we help them engage more effectively with their citizens and stakeholders, and we’re passionate about the work we do. Expanding our reach is an exciting step forward for the team, and we look forward to supporting more communities across the UK.”
AG Corporate Law strengthens team
Boutique law firm AG Corporate Law (AGCL) has reinforced its growing team with the appointments of Corporate Law Executives Oreva Ojuh and Jamie Carrick.
Oreva brings five years of experience in corporate and commercial law. Originally from Nigeria, she qualified as a Barrister and Solicitor before moving to the UK two years ago. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Ambrose Alli University, Nigeria, and a Master’s Degree in International Commercial Law from Nottingham Trent University.
Currently, she is working towards qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. In her role, Oreva will assist with corporate transactions, including reviewing key transaction documents, facilitating communication between parties, and ensuring clients receive timely updates on their legal matters.
Commenting on her appointment, Oreva said: “AGCL is a fantastic place to work. As a fast-growing organisation, with just over two years of practice, AGCL has expanded exponentially, providing top-tier legal services to businesses across the Midlands.
“I am eager to be a part of and contribute to this growth and very excited as I get to carry out work that I love with people that have quickly become my family.”
Joining Oreva at AGCL is Jamie Carrick, who has an impressive academic background, holding an LLB in Law, an LLM (Master of Laws), and having completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC).
Specialising in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), Jamie will support transactions from start to finish, including negotiating terms, conducting due diligence, and drafting key legal documents such as share purchase agreements and shareholder agreements.
Jamie was drawn to AGCL by its dynamic workload, strong workplace culture, and hands-on learning opportunities: “Every day presents a new challenge, and I appreciate the chance to engage directly with directors and gain invaluable insights. The training experience here is practical, and the team provides the perfect balance of independence and support.”
Adam Gilbert, Managing Director of AG Corporate Law, expressed his enthusiasm for the new hires: “It’s been an exceptional couple of years trading for all of us at AGCL.
“We have surpassed our expectations, but we are now reaching a stage where we require additional internal support. With Oreva’s extensive experience and Jamie’s enthusiasm and sharp legal mind, they are both ideal additions to our team as we enter this next phase of growth.”
Outside of work, Oreva enjoys reading crime fiction novels and television series, imagining herself in the courtroom tackling defence and prosecution strategies. Jamie, on the other hand, is an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for hockey, rugby, bouldering, and hiking. He is also actively involved in charity work, having participated in several fundraising events, including the Derby 10K, and is set to take on the Trek26 challenge in support of the Alzheimer’s Society.
WBR Group acquires Standard Life’s SSAS book
WBR Group (WBR), the independent provider of SSAS administration and tax advisory services, has acquired Standard Life’s small self administered scheme (SSAS) book of business.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in WBR’s long standing relationship with Standard Life, having administered this SSAS book for over 20 years.
The Standard Life SSAS book of business consists of 270 schemes with 246 properties and £403m in assets under administration.
Clients will continue to be managed by the same dedicated team, ensuring no disruption in service. The only change they may notice will be a slight branding change, reflecting WBR Group’s identity.
There will be a change of trustee from Standard Life Trustee Company Limited (SLTC) to WBR Trustees Limited.
This acquisition will allow clients to benefit from WBR’s specialised expertise and clients will gain access to additional investment options and services.
Martin Tilley, Director of WBR Group, said: “We are really pleased to have the opportunity to acquire the Standard Life SSAS book of business that we have administered under an outsourcing agreement for over 20 years.
“This is an unusual acquisition of a book we obviously know well. The clients will notice very little difference in the service other than having access to a wider range of investment options and potentially enhanced bank interest rates obtainable through our collective buying power.”
Jenny Holt, Product Director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “The SSAS market is specialist and these clients can have complex business and retirement planning needs.
“Transferring schemes will benefit from the services and solutions of a provider focused on meeting these needs while also allowing us to focus on our core Workplace and Retail propositions.”
