Housing provider launches tree replacement programme
A housing provider has launched its first ever tree replacement and maintenance programme.
Platform Housing Group – one of the largest housing associations in the Midlands – will deliver the programme across its geographical area, on land where trees are felled when they are dead, dying or diseased.
The initiative aims to ensure that every tree that is cut down is replaced.
Nicola Chamberlain, Head of Estate Services at Platform Housing Group, said: “We are delighted to announce this new programme; as guardians of our public open spaces and the flora and fauna within our communities, we feel that it is our duty to do what we can to tackle the climate emergency and provide much needed habitat for local wildlife.”
A total of 78 locations – in Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire as well as Birmingham and Leicester – are on the team’s replacement list where trees have been felled. The work – which will cost around £14,000 to complete – will include the purchase of new high quality trees, takes and tagging, along with labour costs.
Where possible, the replacement trees will be planted in similar places to where the original trees were located, with tree species recommended by the social landlord’s in-house arboriculture surveyor and specialist suppliers. Species will include ornamental cherries, pyracanthas, silver birches and magnolias.
Nicola concluded: “We will only fell trees if there is no other alternative and all options to save the tree have been exhausted. Trees are essential for people, wildlife and the environment; we are pleased to be able to contribute in some small way to help mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.”
East Midlands entrepreneurs hold back as local start-ups plummet
A steep drop in the number of new businesses set up in the East Midlands has continued into a second month, with signs that heightening economic risk is stifling local entrepreneurs.
This is according to the Midlands branch of national insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and is based on an analysis of regional start-up data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe.
The figures show there were 1,775 businesses set up in the East Midlands in December, which is down by over a quarter (29%) compared to the 2,500 new businesses registered in October. The December figure is also significantly lower (11.51%) than at the end of 2023, when there were 2,006 start-ups in the final month of the year.
R3 also reports that the economic picture for established businesses in the region continues to be volatile and mixed. The number of East Midlands companies with late payments on their books remained high in December at 24,124, but the volume of debt owed by firms in liquidation across the region fell compared to the previous month.
R3 Midlands Chair Stephen Rome, a partner at law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper in the region, said: “It’s understandable why local entrepreneurs have taken such a cautious approach over the last couple of months.
“We are facing significant geopolitical issues which could hamper company growth, while higher levels of inflation, international trade restrictions and increasing economic uncertainty are putting sizeable pressures on local companies and restricting new business opportunities.
“There are projections, however, that the UK economy will rebound in 2025. From my own professional experiences and those of my fellow R3 members, I can see that there is both strength and resilience in our local economy and, armed with the right professional support, companies should be well-placed to combat challenges in the year ahead.
“Importantly, should significant cash flow difficulties arise, it’s crucial to take professional advice as soon as possible. There is a significant amount which can be done to rescue and support local businesses if help is taken early enough.”
Peak District National Park Authority shares significant restructure proposals under financial pressures
The Peak District National Park Authority is beginning consultation with a number of staff over restructure proposals that are being driven by a need to cut costs.
The Authority is facing ongoing financial pressures due to a fixed government grant that does not take into account inflation and additional pressures such as the recent increase in Employers National Insurance Contributions, the rise in the minimum wage, the ending of the government’s rate relief scheme, and some external costs rising by as much as 150%.
Overall the Authority has faced a real-terms cut of around 50% over the last ten years. The continual squeeze on funding has happened at the same time as those using the National Park have increased and expectations about what the National Park should be delivering for nature, climate and wellbeing are rising.
It is only two years since the Authority last had to undertake a restructure programme. Those changes reduced management costs and combined several service areas whilst allowing for an investment in the Authority’s statutory planning function.
However, since the last round of changes the Authority has faced unprecedented financial pressures whilst the core government grant remains flat.
The current round of proposed changes includes making efficiencies within important functions such as customer services and communications and having to reduce the size and scope of much cherished work in the areas of community engagement, education and wellbeing.
With the ongoing support of a philanthropic donor, some transformational changes are also being proposed for the Authority’s Visitor and Cycle Hire Centres to ensure their long-term viability.
Phil Mulligan, the Authority’s Chief Executive, said: “We are facing a very challenging financial landscape. The proposals we are having to consider are extremely difficult and upsetting for everyone.
“We are looking at potentially cutting or reducing some of our high profile and much valued programmes. None of us want to make these decisions but they cannot be avoided unless there is significantly better news from government on our funding.”
The Authority has confirmed the possibility of a number of redundancies, which it is seeking to mitigate through the consideration of voluntary redundancies across the organisation. It is expected that the restructure will be concluded ahead of Authority Members needing to agree next year’s budget at their meeting on 21st March.
Rolls-Royce signs engine agreement with STARLUX Airlines
Rolls-Royce has signed an agreement with STARLUX Airlines for 10 Trent XWB-97 engines to power five Airbus A350F aircraft, firming up the options it made at the Singapore Airshow in February 2024.
This brings STARLUX Airlines’ freighter fleet to a total of ten and will make them one of the largest purchasers of the A350F.
Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer, Rolls-Royce – Civil Aerospace, said: “It’s been a pleasure collaborating with STARLUX Airlines and we’re delighted that they have opted for an additional five Trent XWB-97 powered Airbus A350F. We thank STARLUX Airlines for its continued confidence in the power of our Trent engines.
“The engine will benefit from the £1bn investment we’re making to the Trent engine family that improves their durability and efficiency across all operations. We are proud to continue supporting the expansion of STARLUX Airlines and look forward to supporting these new aircraft as they enter into service.”
Glenn Chai, CEO, STARLUX Airlines, said: “STARLUX Airlines has continuously nurtured the cargo market since its inception, capitalizing on the strategic advantages offered by Taiwan’s geographical location.
“This acquisition of five more A350F freighters not only prepares us for the rapidly growing demand in the cargo market but also reflects our optimism about the potential of the international cargo market.
“The A350F is the most fuel-efficient freighter in the industry, meeting customer requirements to reduce carbon emissions and is in line with STARLUX’s ESG plan to achieve zero emissions by 2050.”
Planning approval secured for new Public Mortuary in Northampton
Plans to deliver a state-of-the-art public mortuary in Northampton have taken a significant step forward, as planning permission has been officially granted.
This major milestone paves the way for work to begin later this month on a facility that will transform bereavement and post-mortem services for families across Northamptonshire and the wider region.
Once completed in autumn 2025, the new mortuary will be a purpose-built facility, designed to deliver the highest standards of care and compassion during some of the most challenging times in people’s lives.
It will provide modern, dignified spaces for families, including private viewing and identification areas, ensuring a compassionate and respectful experience for those dealing with the loss of a loved one.
The facility will seek to provide services that are currently unavailable locally and simplify existing services by consolidating them into one central location.
For professionals such as funeral directors and healthcare staff, this will mean a more efficient and accessible service, while families will benefit from quicker outcomes and reduced delays.
Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member HR and Corporate services at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “The new mortuary is more than just a building – it’s a commitment to better care, greater compassion, and smarter, more efficient services.
“Bereavement is one of the hardest experiences anyone can go through, and this new facility will make that process a little easier by providing families with the dignity, care, and support they deserve.
“It’s also a big step forward in how we manage and deliver post-mortem services, using modern technology to reduce delays and create a better experience for everyone involved.”
Beyond its immediate services, the mortuary will play a vital role in disaster preparedness. It will be equipped to support emergency services and police in the event of a major incident, including mass fatality situations.
This capability ensures Northamptonshire is better prepared to respond to unexpected challenges while continuing to provide essential services to the community.
Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with initial works focusing on ground preparation and site readiness. The project will be delivered by Stepnells LTD, a contractor with extensive experience in delivering projects of this scale.
Construction commences on over 100,000 sq ft of industrial premises and employee facilities at Silverstone Park
Construction of over 100,000 sq ft of further industrial premises and employee facilities at Silverstone Park has commenced.
The industrial development named ‘Evolve’ will include more than 95,000 sq ft of industrial units and office space on a six-acre plot of land adjacent to both the Park’s Innovation Centre and the entrance to the neighbouring Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit.
Nine properties, all hybrid style and ranging from 7,549 to 24,638 sq ft in size, will be built as part of the development which will also feature a stylish reception area, contemporary offices, double-height workshop space and loading doors.
Demand for the space has seen several pre-lets already in talks, with performance automotive parts specialist ‘AliTech Precision’ finalising its contracts just as spades were going in the ground.
Darren Cudd, Managing Director, AliTech, said: “We are excited to join Silverstone Park’s growing campus.
“As a hub of innovation and engineering in the UK, located adjacent to the world famous circuit, we believe this is the perfect place for AliTech to further our businesses growth and we look forward to working alongside the other global leaders already based here.”
The new phase of development will also see the arrival of a new café, children’s nursery, and state-of-the-art gym.
Chris Kimber-Nickelson, Commercial Director, Silverstone Park, said: “We are excited to get this latest development off the ground.
“It will provide businesses with another high quality, contemporary working environment and smart flexible space ready for a bespoke fit-out. We are certain that the prime location – right next to the Silverstone Circuit – will also provide a buzz for businesses and their employees.”
Chris added: “The campus here at Silverstone Park continues to evolve to the needs of business occupiers and this latest phase of development is an opportunity to deliver a café, nursery, and gym, which we hope will enhance work-life balance for new and existing staff.
“This is in addition to the numerous break-out areas and green spaces, plus pathways and cycle routes that have already been created as part of the larger development of the Silverstone Park site.”
Silverstone Park is now home to more than 90 businesses employing close to 1,600 people.
Many of those businesses specialise in advanced engineering and manufacturing, and operate in areas such as aerospace, agritech, automotive, defence, energy, marine, medical equipment, motorsport (including F1), nuclear and space.
The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club acquired by UK’s largest country club operator
The Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club (The Nottinghamshire) has been acquired by the UK’s largest country club operator, The Club Company.
Set in 340 acres, The Nottinghamshire is a 36 hole golf club which hosts extensive facilities including a bistro experience, wedding venue and a 30-bedroom boutique hotel.
The Club Company collection now totals 18 clubs across England.
Alan Hardy acquired the club in 2010 as Cotgrave Place and has since transformed the club venue from a traditional but struggling golf club into a thriving hospitality complex. During that time, he has focused on investing in the courses, boutique hotel, conferencing and wedding experiences, to the extent that golf makes up only half of the revenue of the club.
Hardy said: “It is with mixed emotions that I can confirm that I’ve come to the end of my 14 year journey with The Nottinghamshire. It is a journey that I am incredibly proud of, having met, worked and played with a wonderful number of people along the way.
“I am proud that we’ve created something special in that time and now have a fantastic team of over 100 people across the venues, in the clubhouse, the back office and out on the course, all of whom I will miss dearly.”
Richard Calvert, Chief Executive Officer of The Club Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club into The Club Company portfolio. Over the last few months, I have personally experienced the dedication and professionalism of the team at The Nottinghamshire.
“This stunning club has an outstanding reputation and has been transformed under the ownership of Alan. We are committed to building on this legacy and will continue to invest in the club and its facilities for the benefit of members and visitors alike.”
Alan concluded: “This has been a truly amazing journey during which we have transformed this club into something truly spectacular.
“Being in the leisure sector, where people choose to spend their spare time and money is uplifting and inspiring. We have taken this place from an incredibly difficult position, creating a wonderfully bright future as we have done that.
“Leaving a legacy here has been my driving force and I have loved every single moment. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this story.”
West Northamptonshire Council to pursue South Midlands devolution bid
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has agreed to pursue proposals to partner with other authorities in the South Midlands in a bid to join the Government’s ‘priority programme’ for devolution.
Councillors met last night (Thursday 9 January) and decided the Council should submit an expression of interest to ministers today for a new strategic mayoral authority covering West Northamptonshire, Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes and North Northamptonshire.
The proposal covering the six authority areas meets all the requirements, set out by the Government in the Devolution White Paper published last month, for the creation a strategic mayoral authority. This included a population size and a coherent economic footprint.
The proposal also builds on the strong history the councils have working as SEMLEP and from which the new South Midlands Authorities (SMA) group was formed to drive economic growth across the region and to lead the new DWP Supported Employment programme for the South Midlands.
WNC is keen to seize the opportunity to leverage the hundreds of millions of pounds of further investment that is now promised to devolved areas.
Devolution is used to describe the transfer of powers from national to local government and in places with a regionally-elected mayor, this also means the transfer of significant investment to drive new infrastructure, jobs and growth.
WNC will today submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) supporting the creation of a new South Midlands Strategic Authority and has invited the other five councils to join them, following on from recent discussions and interest from the Government in the South Midlands being part of the Devolution Priority Programme.
Any Council is able to submit an EOI and proposal for strategic mayoral authority area, although regions that demonstrate a strong and united approach to devolution are expected to be prioritised by the Government.
In September, the six authorities submitted an initial Expression of Interest to the Government for a combined authority, although at that stage it did not assume a mayor would be put in place.
The Devolution white paper made clear however that it expected all areas to be covered by a mayor and to be part of the Devolution Priority Programme WNC now have to confirm acceptance of this as well as interest on the fast track process.
WNC is already a unitary authority created in 2021, replacing and simplifying the two-tier system of county, district and borough councils to deliver all their services to residents in the West Northants area.
WNC is not currently part of a combined authority or strategic mayoral authority, which are formed by two or more neighbouring councils and typically cover around 1.5 million residents. Northamptonshire’s population of approximately 870,000 is more than half of the number of residents required for a new combined authority according to the Government’s criteria.
Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Cllr Adam Brown said: “It is clear that a strategic mayoral authority covering the six South Midlands councils is not only the one option that meets all the Government’s criteria, but also serves the best interests of all residents across our region.
“The six South Midlands authorities already have a strong history of working together to drive economic growth and building on this will only bring more benefits to all of our communities through a devolution deal that could attract millions of pounds of additional investment.
“This is a once in a generation opportunity that we are ready to seize, regardless of party politics, for our residents and, given the clear advice recently received from Government representatives about its coherence and suitability, we remain committed to pursuing this option.
“We hope our partner councils will join us so that we don’t miss out on this opportunity for all our communities.”
A strategic mayoral authority is led by a regionally-elected mayor, which is entirely different to civic and ceremonial mayors at town councils and has enhanced powers and funding devolved from national government to make collective decisions on issues such as economic growth, transport, housing, skills and employment.
A new strategic mayoral authority including the West Northamptonshire area would not replace the existing unitary council but would provide it with a stronger say and more significant role in regional investment and decision making.
Following an extraordinary meeting of Full Council last night – North Northamptonshire Council will also submit an expression of interest to pursue proposals to work with other South Midlands authorities on a devolution bid.
Derbyshire biotech company makes key appointment
Derbyshire biotech company N4 Pharma has appointed Dr Alastair Smith as an independent Non-Executive Director.
Alastair was the founder and former Chief Executive Officer of Avacta Group, an AIM-listed biotech company established as a spin-out from Leeds University in 2005 and listed on the London Stock Exchange AIM market in 2006.
Over his tenure, Avacta grew into one of the leading AIM biotech companies comprising two divisions: a clinical stage oncology drug company and a diagnostics business.
Alastair joins the company’s remuneration and audit committees.
Nigel Theobald, Chief Executive Officer, N4 Pharma, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alastair to the Board of N4 Pharma. His experience in having founded and grown a start-up to become one of the UK’s leading life science businesses will be invaluable in supporting the commercialisation of Nuvec® and advancing our pipeline of innovative therapies.”
The news comes as David Templeton retires as a Director of the company.Nigel added: “On behalf of my fellow Directors and everyone involved with N4 Pharma, I would like to thank David for all he has contributed over his years with the Company. Whilst he will be sorely missed, his work on dual loading of Nuvec® and its potential for oral delivery has left us with a true point of difference and a clear path towards Phase 1 clinical trials. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Alastair Smith said: “I am delighted to be joining the Board of N4 Pharma. I see strong parallels between N4 Pharma and Avacta; both building a pipeline of therapies that are strongly differentiated by a proprietary platform technology and offer additional opportunities for early commercialisation through licensing.”
Grantham day nursery sold to care home operator
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Ancaster Village Nursery & Forest School in Grantham, Lincolnshire.
Ancaster Village Nursery & Forest School is a well-established day nursery located in Ancaster, Grantham, Lincolnshire. Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, the nursery provides care for up to 52 children at a time and operates from a purpose-built rural property.
The sale also included the successful 46 place ‘Out of School’ club which the company runs from the local village primary school.
The nursery has been owned and managed by Linda Lukies since 2007. After many successful years in the childcare sector, Linda made the decision to retire, prompting the sale of the business.
Following a confidential sales process with Jassi Sunner at Christie & Co, it has been sold to new market entrant, Kiddi Corporation Ltd, which is owned by Rupinder Sandhu, a former care home operator expanding into the childcare sector.
Linda Lukies, former owner of Ancaster Village Nursery, said: “I would like to wish Rupinder and Ancaster Village Nursery every success for the future. It has been an absolute pleasure running this wonderful setting with such a passionate staff team and I know that, with Rupinder’s vision and experience, I have left everything in the safest hands.”
Rupinder Sandhu, the new owner of Ancaster Village Nursery, said: “I am extremely committed to delivering high-quality care in the community, drawing on my background in residential care.
“Working with children has always been a passion of mine and, as a parent of young children, I understand first-hand the challenges faced by parents. This drives my dedication to ensuring that childcare settings are nurturing, supportive, and positively promote children’s development.”
Jassi Sunner, Associate Director – Childcare & Education at Christie & Co, said: “With its excellent location, Ancaster Village Nursery & Forest School has built a fantastic reputation over the years under Linda’s leadership.
“The rural setting is logistically well placed for parents and has become a key choice for local families seeking high-quality childcare in a ‘home from home’ environment. After a competitive marketing process, we secured an offer from Rupinder, an experienced care home operator, looking for a new challenge in childcare.
“This transition is a perfect fit, and I have no doubt that Rupinder will build on the strong foundations Linda has established.”
Ancaster Village Nursery & Forest School was sold for an undisclosed price.
