BDO expands Midlands team with VAT partner hire

Tess Egginton
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BDO expands Midlands team with VAT partner hire
Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has strengthened its Midlands team with the senior appointment of Chris Rowe as VAT partner, following a raft of promotions across the region earlier this month. Chris joins the Midlands Tax team and brings over 13 years’ experience to the position. In his previous role as director at EY, he led the automotive team nationally for Indirect Tax, and was also Tax lead on a number of key accounts. Chris also brings sector expertise across retail and manufacturing. At BDO, Chris will be responsible for helping to build the Midlands VAT team, both in terms of people and revenues. He will also utilise his sector expertise by adding value to the firm’s Midlands manufacturing hub, while working nationally in the automotive market. Kyla Bellingall, Midlands Managing Partner, said: “We’re delighted to welcome someone of Chris’ experience to the Midlands team, in what is an excellent hire for both our VAT and sector teams, as we look to solidify our presence in the regional market over the coming months and years. “Having the right people in place to drive those ambitions, while supporting Midlands businesses in the notoriously complex areas of VAT and Indirect Tax, is absolutely vital. His arrival comes at an exciting time for the firm regionally, after 97 promotions in the Midlands across core areas of our business, including audit, tax and advisory.” Chris said: “I’m really excited to get started at BDO. The culture within the business is fantastic and truly encourages collaboration, not only within specialist teams, but across the various sector disciplines, both regionally and nationally. “The opportunity to build what is already a strong VAT team, as we look to capitalise on the significant market potential, is  very exciting and I’m delighted to be playing a key role in realising those ambitions in the Midlands.” Earlier this month, BDO promoted 97 people across its team in the Midlands, including three promotions to partner. The promotions follow a raft of appointments, including John Rouse who was appointed as partner in the FAVS team, and a duo of director hires in the Business Services & Outsourcing practice.

What to consider when hiring additional support for a construction project

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What to consider when hiring additional support for a construction project
Do you own a commercial property that is currently undergoing or about to undergo construction and renovations? Keeping your property in tip-top condition is one thing, but sometimes it needs more than cosmetic touches and a more in-depth project is warranted. The problem is that a construction project on a commercial property isn’t always quick and easy, and can’t be compared to home renovations. This is why it’s important to have the right people on the job. Here we’ll take a look at what to consider when hiring additional support for a construction project.

What is the Scope of the Project?

Before you can start hiring additional support, you must be clear about the scope of the project. How big/small is it, what are the end goals, and why are you taking on the project? Being specific about your expectations, wants and needs will help you to figure out such important things as the timeline, budget, resources needed, professionals needed, materials and so forth.

Do You Have a Vision?

It’s really difficult to hire additional support when you don’t have a solid grasp of your vision. You need to be specific so you can communicate efficiently with the various tradespeople. If you’re having a hard time forming a vision, try flipping through décor magazines, looking online, and paying attention to how other businesses are set up.

What’s the Budget?

Speaking of the budget, this is a great time to give it thought and set one that you’re comfortable with. When setting the budget you need to be realistic and it’s also smart to build a contingency fund within. There’s nothing wrong with having a positive mindset and believing all will go well, but issues can arise and they can end up costing more than you had anticipated. Having a bit of a slush fund will ensure there isn’t too much stress when these unexpected costs pop up.

Does It Make Sense to Hire a Construction Project Manager?

Depending on the size of the construction project, it may be too much for you to manage. If you’re trying to juggle running your company with overseeing the construction project, things are bound to be overlooked and forgotten, which isn’t good. Hiring a construction project manager means someone else will be in charge of the renovations, sticking to the budget, procuring the materials, hiring sub-contractors, and so forth.

Does the Professional Have Experience with Commercial Projects?

It’s also important to recognise experience — not just any type of experience, but the relevant experience. If you’re hiring a professional tradesperson, you need to know they have handled commercial projects like yours in the past. Residential and even industrial experience isn’t the same, and for the job to be done safely, correctly, to code and promptly, they will need specific experience. If you’re in search of “electricians near me”, check out a site like MyBuilder.com, which acts as a directory of vetted and reviewed electricians. They can share information about their work, qualifications, licenses and experience. You can ensure you pick one that has commercial experience. Be sure to take the time and read the reviews provided by customers, as this will help you narrow down your options. When it comes to qualifications, if you are hiring a tradesperson, you will want to look into whether they are a member of a trade association. Being a member means they will be kept up to date on all the latest news, information, policies, rules, practices and more. It’s also important to ask if they are registered. If they are a builder they should also have insurance, in particular contractors’ all-risk liability, employers’ liability insurance and public liability insurance. Insurance protects them and you should anything go wrong.

Can They Provide You with References?

A simple question to ask any additional support people is if they can provide you with references. Ask for at least two and be prepared to follow up with them. You can also ask to see their portfolio if applicable.

How Does the Construction Affect Day-to-Day Activities?

The final consideration is how all this construction will affect the daily activities in the workplace. Will employees still be able to do their job efficiently, effectively and safely? If the answer is no to any of these questions, then you need to come up with a solution. That could mean temporarily moving off-site to another location, allowing employees to work remotely from home, or shuffling people around so they work in an area that isn’t currently under construction. In extreme cases, it may be necessary to close down for a few days. Factoring in all of these considerations will help ensure that your construction project goes smoothly, you have qualified and experienced people doing the work, and that it is as stress-free as possible.

Lloyds Banking Group appoints housing expert as new ambassador for the Midlands

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Lloyds Banking Group appoints housing expert as new ambassador for the Midlands
Lloyds Banking Group has appointed Andrew Asaam as its new group ambassador for the Midlands. Alongside a team of experts from across the group, Andrew will work with local politicians, regional business leaders, community networks and charities to help address the challenges facing the Midlands. There will be a strong focus on exploring ways of helping people in the region access affordable and sustainable housing. Andrew will also champion small businesses and promote the importance of skills and apprenticeships, as well as advise on the Midlands’ transition to a low-carbon economy. Andrew, who is homes director for Lloyds Banking Group, was born and raised in Birmingham and studied economics at Coventry University. He said: “As a proud Midlander, I’m really honoured to have been asked to take on this role because our region has so much to be shouting about. “We have a long history of innovation which continues today – not least in our advanced manufacturing technology and health and life sciences sectors – and we’re also building on our strong automotive heritage, as electric vehicles and Birmingham’s clean air zone push us forward on the road to net zero. “The Midlands’ place in the heart of England makes it central to the success of the UK. I’m really looking forward to working with other leaders in the region to help bolster growth and attract investment.”

Lace Market ‘loft style’ offices let

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Lace Market ‘loft style’ offices let
The ‘loft-style’ fourth floor office at the popular 34 Stoney Street has been let in a deal brokered by Thomas Szymkiw, office agent at FHP Property Consultants. The 1,400 sq ft suite provides Budgeting Solutions an opportunity to acquire a fully refurbished space within the roof eaves of this historic Grade II former Lace Mill. The refurbishment included a full strip out with the installation of LED lighting, heating and cooling system, brand new kitchenette, WC’s and some clever glass partition work between the roof trusses to create independent meeting spaces. Thomas Szymkiw, associate director at FHP, said: “This letting completes the final piece of the jigsaw for our clients who from acquisition of the property have undertaken a full and substantial refurbishment – sympathetically looking after its historic and period features whilst modernising the internal suites to the new tenants’ exacting specifications. “It just goes to show that in the current market occupiers are demanding quality and when this is delivered – fantastic results will follow. “It’s great news for the Lace Market office scene to have this building now fully let and I wish Paul at Budgeting Solutions and all the tenants the best of luck for the future.” Paul Bavington, of Budgeting Solutions, said: “It’s been great working with Thomas/FHP on structuring the right deal with the landlord and being involved in specifying the fit out to ensure we created a workspace designed for hybrid working. “As a fast growing technology business, this space will enable colleagues and clients alike to embrace true digital working patterns.”

Leicestershire architects complete £100m scheme with Clowes Developments

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Leicestershire architects complete £100m scheme with Clowes Developments

IMA Architects has completed its latest project with Clowes Developments, with more projects confirmed for 2023.

Involved from the outset, IMA acted as Planning Consultants as well as Architects, helping to finetune the project and liaising with both Clowes Developments and NFUM throughout. The team produced footprint layouts of the proposed units to highlight achievable floorspace, as well as contributing to the full production of drawings and working closely with key contractors.

With practical completion achieved at the end of October, the six units are located across three sites in Corby (2), Castlewood (2) and at East Midlands Distribution Centre in Castle Donnington (2) – with a mix of B2 and B8 use – and will become part of NFUM’s property portfolio.

Five of the units were constructed on a speculative basis with no end users secured, while one unit – plot A1 in Corby occupying 162,490ft² – has been pre-let to Deichmann Shoes (UK). The first to be built, this unit was not initially part of the deal, but became part of the project during negotiations. The other five units occupy a combined floorspace of 838,586ft² and are now on the market for suitable occupants.

Speaking on the project, Ben Hall, director at IMA, said: “Our professional relationship with Clowes is longstanding and we have successfully delivered over 60 projects since 2009, with more confirmed on 2023. On this particular project, we were the only Architects on site and, as the demand for commercial rental units grow, so does the development potential – so we look forward to being part of future schemes.

“Going forwards, we look forward to working with Clowes on upcoming projects, and we are proud to have them as a returning client.”

James Richards, director at Clowes Developments, said: “We are pleased to have completed this project with NFUM and to have had the expertise of IMA on board from the outset. IMA form an important part of the puzzle which enables us to deliver such complex transactions.

“IMA worked seamlessly with our dedicated legal team at Geldards, employers’ agents, Postins Project Services, various contractors and, of course, our internal team at Clowes.

“Their ability to work well with key parties across all sites helped to ensure that the work was completed within the agreed timescales which is essential for us. We are confident that the units will all soon find suitable occupiers and be an asset to the local East Midlands economy for years to come.”

Marketing agency branches out into UAE

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Marketing agency branches out into UAE
Full service marketing agency Purpose Media has been appointed on a project in Dubai on behalf of a client which provides commercial refrigeration solutions. The appointment follows on from projects they have already carried out in Milan, Belgium and Austria on behalf of commercial refrigeration solutions manufacturer True Refrigeration. Based in the US, the company exports worldwide and has a UK operation based in Rotherham from which it has been spearheading expansion into the UK and Europe. True have been pioneers of commercial refrigeration solutions for more than 70 years and has been operating in Dubai and the middle-east markets for over 20 years. With a turnover in excess of $1bn globally and a large market share in the US where it is the go-to refrigerator brand, the company has been working with Purpose Media to plan and deliver their UK marketing strategy. The project in the UAE involves documenting and filming their attendance at Gulf Host Dubai, MENA’s largest Hospitality Equipment and Foodservice show. The show happens each year at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Matt Bonser, account director at Purpose Media, said: “True is an important client for us as they represent our ability to support local businesses on global projects. It is going to be a frenetic five days for the team as they gather the video and photographic materials we will then transform for use across all digital marketing channels to grow True’s brand profile and reputation across the UAE and Europe.” Founded in 1945, True now has offices and facilities in the UK, Germany, Australia and South America. True products can be found in foodservice operations such as workplace café’s, restaurants, breweries, bars, bakeries, food halls and take away’s all around the world. Clients include McDonalds, Zizzi, Pizza Hut, KFC, Subway and Dunkin Donuts.

Eight storey apartment building tipped for approval in Nottingham

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Eight storey apartment building tipped for approval in Nottingham
Plans for a new apartment building in Nottingham have been tipped for approval.
The proposals for 1 Wallett Street come from Arkwright Property Co Ltd and would see existing buildings on the site demolished.
The site currently comprises a collection of industrial buildings and a large surface car park, which will be replaced with a building that steps down in height from 8 storeys on the frontage to Crocus Street to 4 storeys adjacent to Meadows Way.
141 apartments are planned, comprising 72 one bed and 69 two bed flats.
There would be 44 car parking spaces at the ground floor level along with bin and cycle storage facilities.

Nottingham Building Society and Gen H sign £600m agreement to boost home ownership

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Nottingham Building Society and Gen H sign £600m agreement to boost home ownership
Nottingham Building Society (NBS) and fintech mortgage lender Gen H have agreed a new partnership of up to £600m. NBS will provide forward-flow funding to Gen H over a minimum of two years to boost the prospects of home ownership for first-time buyers and remortgagers. The deal reflects a shared commitment to transform the housing market and make home ownership a reality for millions more people. Under the agreement, The Nottingham’s funding will enable Gen H to accelerate the rollout of its innovative suite of mortgage products and widen the opportunity for home ownership. The agreement marks a milestone for both parties, as Gen H’s first Building Society funding partner, and The Nottingham’s first key partnership in support of its new purpose-driven strategy. Gen H, also known as Generation Home, was founded in 2019 with the mission to make everyone a homeowner. The company began trading in October 2020 and its mortgage products have since helped thousands of aspiring homeowners take their first step onto the property ladder. Gen H estimates that around two-thirds of first-time buyers need financial help from friends or family and seeks to solve this problem through tailored solutions that broaden and simplify access to home ownership. These include income boosters that help customers borrow more, deposit boosters that enable interest-free loans from friends and family, and a unique Home Agreement that facilitates dynamic ownership of homes. The partnership with NBS will also allow for Gen H to steadily continue its lending growth, while becoming a fixture in the mortgage market alongside high-street banks. William Rice, CEO, Gen H (Generation Home), said: “At Gen H, we believe that owning a home should be an opportunity for everyone. That’s why we’re rebuilding the home-buying process to make it simple, transparent and fair. “Our partnership with The Nottingham is a crucial step in our journey; its mutual ethos and 170-year legacy of supporting people to own their own home is a great fit with our mission.” Sue Hayes, CEO, Nottingham Building Society, said: “We are delighted to partner with Generation Home. Our shared purpose and the depth of cultural alignment across our businesses provide us with a unique platform for success. “They present a unique proposition that, with our support, can enable home ownership to become a reality, rather than a dream. Mutuality is the bedrock on which the Society has been run since its inception, and we are proud to be partnering with a business that shares our resolute determination to help people own their own home. “This matters now, more than ever.”

Planning application submitted for local centre and care home in Leicestershire

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Planning application submitted for local centre and care home in Leicestershire

Developer Charterpoint, in a joint venture with landowner, The Drummond Estate, has applied for planning permission to build a new local centre and a 66-bed care home on land at New Lubbesthorpe, a new community in Blaby, Leicestershire.

The mixed-use scheme features a two-storey local centre which will house a Sainsbury’s Local store and four additional units for retail, including a café/bistro on the ground floor. The first floor will be occupied by Forest House Medical Centre.

The plans submitted to Blaby District Council include a 66-bed modern care home to be built over two and three storeys, which would be delivered by senior living specialist Charterpoint.

New Lubbesthorpe Local Centre is the first retail scheme for the new community, which will eventually feature more than 4,000 new homes.

The local centre and the care home – designed by Franklin Ellis Architects – have already received outline planning permission and will complete the development of the Tay Road feature square that also includes the successful New Lubbesthorpe Primary School.

Charterpoint Managing Director, Giles Nursey, said: “New Lubbesthorpe is an exciting, vibrant community set in a great countryside location just 20 minutes from Leicester city centre and ten minutes from Fosse Park Retail Centre.

“Charterpoint has carefully developed designs for the first of two local centres planned for the site, plus an adjacent care home, and we are very pleased to have now submitted a reserved matters planning application to Blaby District Council as the next part of the development process.”

Martin Ward, a trustee of the Drummond Estate, said: “Community facilities, such as these, are vital to maintain the fantastic sense of community we have created at New Lubbesthorpe. The new local centre will complement the successful primary school and will be welcomed by those already living here and the new residents moving to site.”

New Lubbesthorpe is a pioneering new community set in 325 acres of new parklands and wetlands, south of Leicester Forest East. Around 780 of the 4,250 homes have so far been built and occupied.

It is expected that work will begin on site for the new local centre and the care home in spring 2023, subject to planning permission.

Leicestershire celebrates major environmental achievements during COP 27

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Leicestershire celebrates major environmental achievements during COP 27
As world leaders continue to discuss the climate crisis at COP 27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, action to reduce carbon emissions continues to be taken closer to home. The LLEP Business Gateway and its partner Zellar, are celebrating a milestone for their pioneering initiative which helps Leicestershire businesses save money and reduce the carbon they generate. Eighteen months ago, the LLEP Business Gateway launched the Zellar programme, giving 100 local SMEs free access to an online platform through which they could track their carbon emissions and kickstart their sustainability journeys. Today they announced that they have so far helped local businesses save a massive £143k on their energy bills, allowing them to invest in sustainable changes to secure further savings. Participating companies have so far invested £400,000 in green technologies since the start of the Zellar programme and contributed 3,400 hours of volunteering towards local environmental projects. Welcomm Communications – a telecoms business based in Market Harborough – has been using Zellar since the start of this year. Their sustainability champion, Wendy Savill, said: “Since starting on our sustainability journey, we have been so encouraged by the Zellar platform in many ways, not least by realising the cost savings we have made. “These have come from making small changes in the business which were so easy to implement. We are excited to measure further changes in the near future and to achieve more savings, especially in the current economic climate. A huge thanks to Zellar for giving us that focus.” Acting head of the LLEP, Sue Tilley, added: “We are so proud of how Leicestershire companies have embraced this initiative as part of their response to the climate emergency. “We’ve always been leaders in environmental issues and it’s great to see that tradition continuing with our Zellar project which is the first of its kind in the UK. We do still have 16 free places left if any other businesses would like to join the scheme to save money and attract new customers.” A further benefit to the region has come in the form of a £600,000 investment from the Co-operative Bank to Leicestershire businessman Gary Styles, who is the founder and CEO of Zellar. Mr Styles said: “The Co-operative Bank is a perfect investor for Zellar. We hold so many shared values and they have the highest Environmental Social and Governance score of any UK high street bank. “We’re also incredibly thankful to the LLEP Business Gateway and to all the pioneering Leicestershire businesses that have supported our journey so far. We would urge more businesses to get onboard and grab those final free licenses.”
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