An independent podiatrist with clinics in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire is celebrating after being crowned Entrepreneur of the Year for the area by the business growth specialists, Entrepreneurs Circle. Steve Carter, who runs We Fix Feet Limited from their Ilkeston and Beeston clinics, was presented with the award by local Entrepreneurs Circle Ambassador Greg Simpson, who hosts the local networking events every month on behalf of the national organisation. Carter, together with co-owner Darren Bloore, has grown the business significantly over the last 12 months, hiring new team members (now 7-strong and recruiting for more) as the business grows and seeing record numbers in terms of customers, turnover and profit. “At the end of the day, any success we are experiencing comes down to creating a fantastic customer experience,” explains Carter, who started his first clinic in Ilkeston in 2004. “In simple terms, yes, ‘We Fix Feet’ but there’s a whole lot more to it, whether recovering from a sports injury or managing long-term foot issues, our goal is to treat, improve, and help you move better. It all begins and ends with the customer experience.” Press For Attention PR owner Greg Simpson, who runs the monthly Entrepreneurs Circle local meetings with co-ambassador Claire Taylor, from Creationz Marketing, notes: “I’ve followed what Steve and Darren have been doing over the last 12 months and ultimately it comes down to consistency and implementation with that laser focus on the customer – not just their feet! “The results have followed as a natural consequence of taking the time to focus ON not just IN their business. “Entrepreneurs Circle helps members like Steve and Darren to grow their businesses. Whether the goal is more customers, more sales, more profits or all of the above, Entrepreneurs Circle gives members the tools, training and support to take their business from where it is now, to where they want it to be – then it is down to them to take action, something Steve and Darren do incredibly well.” Co-owner of We Fix Feet, Darren Bloore, adds: “Whilst we use incredibly advanced treatments like Swift Microwave therapy, Class 4 Laser and Focussed Shockwave therapy, trust and accessibility is the key. “As such, we have created packages of support for our clients and really useful guides and resources that ensure that our patients are not only well informed but better able to access our services. “We’ve learned and (crucially) implemented a lot from Entrepreneurs Circle, Greg and Claire and we are proud to be recognised by them as we strive to take We Fix feet another step in the right direction every day.’”
East Midlands businesses face £58m tax hike as rates relief shrinks
According to an analysis by tax firm Ryan, retail, leisure, and hospitality businesses in the East Midlands will pay an extra £57.85 million in business rates from 1 April following a government cut to tax relief.
The business rates discount for eligible firms is set to drop from 75% to 40% for the 2025/26 financial year, with relief reduced from £2.41 billion to £1.38 billion across England. The East Midlands is among the hardest-hit regions, alongside London (£309.65 million) and the South East (£157.85 million).
The tax increase comes as businesses already face rising National Insurance contributions, an increased National Living Wage, and a new packaging levy, all of which take effect in April.
Local councils are expected to collect £27.8 billion in business rates in 2025/26, up 5.7% from the previous year. Two-thirds of the increase is due to the reduced discount for retail, leisure, and hospitality firms.
Business leaders warn that small and independent businesses in the East Midlands could struggle to absorb the extra costs, putting further pressure on a sector already battling inflation and economic uncertainty.
Work resumes on stalled affordable housing scheme
IHG rebrands East Midlands Airport hotel as Crowne Plaza
IHG Hotels & Resorts is rebranding the Best Western Premier Yew Lodge near East Midlands Airport into Crowne Plaza East Midlands Airport. Bookings are open for stays starting 18 April.
Located in Kegworth, 2.5 miles from the airport, the rebranded hotel will feature 114 guest rooms, a Marco Pierre White-branded restaurant, a fitness centre, and 17 meeting rooms aimed at business and leisure travellers.
The move is part of IHG’s broader UK and Ireland expansion, which includes over 900 new rooms across multiple properties. Recent openings include voco London Marylebone and the UK’s first Garner-branded hotel in Preston Samlesbury.
£3.288m earmarked to boost economic growth in Derby
UK businesses urge government to fix outdated infrastructure
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging the UK government to address critical infrastructure issues to support economic growth. A new BCC report calls for road and rail capacity investment, regional transport projects, and improved grid connectivity. It also stresses the need for long-term policy stability and better planning capacity to restore business confidence, which was shaken by the cancellation of HS2’s later stages.
The report highlights widespread concerns among business leaders. Two-thirds (66%) feel their input is ignored in local infrastructure decisions, rising to 81% for national projects. Additionally, 62% say local bus and tram networks are inadequate, affecting workers’ commuting ability.
The BCC has launched an initiative to train and place 100 additional planners in local authorities to tackle planning delays. The report also urges the government to include business interests in the upcoming Infrastructure and Planning Bill to ensure a coordinated national strategy.
The BCC warns that uncertainty around major infrastructure projects hinders private sector investment and that reform is needed to create a stable environment for long-term economic development.
East Midlands Combined County Authority appoints permanent Executive Directors
Nottingham art gallery secures future with factory purchase
Backlit Gallery in Nottingham has secured its long-term future by raising £884,000 to purchase its Victorian factory premises, Alfred House, from Nottingham City Council.
The gallery, based in Sneinton since 2012, operates 75 artist studios within the former textiles factory, initially built in 1872 by anti-slavery campaigner Samuel Morley. The purchase was completed for £625,000, with remaining funds allocated for renovations, including improved disabled access, a new community garden, and a ground-floor gallery.
Multiple sources provided funding, including £480,657 from Arts Council England and £150,000 from the Garfield Weston Foundation. The Architectural Heritage Fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Foyle Foundation, and the Clothworkers’ Foundation also contributed.
Northampton begins work on £1.6m heritage park
Construction has started on Marefair Heritage Park in Northampton, a project designed to boost footfall and create a more welcoming town centre. The site will feature a castle-themed play area, a community garden, and a walking trail highlighting the history of Northampton Castle.
The project is backed by £1.6 million from the Towns Fund, developer contributions, and West Northamptonshire Council. Initial work includes utility disconnections, securing the site, and relocating heritage features. Future phases will involve tree root protection, structural reinforcements, and excavation for historical displays under archaeological supervision.
The park aims to enhance connections between Northampton railway station and the town centre, supporting local businesses and tourism. Construction is set to be completed by late summer 2025.
Derby accountancy firm expands with key new appointments
