Leicestershire Builder December 2022 issue

The property – 44-46 Ruby Street, Newfoundpool, Leicester LE3 9GR – has planning permission (Leicester City Council planning ref: 20190277) for 7 two bedroom houses.

Work starts on new commercial development in Fleckney

THE GROUND has been broken on the start of a 34 week project to build a new commercial development in Fleckney, Leicestershire.

The development is located on Churchill Way and the first phase will provide over 12,000 sqft of high quality office and workshop space which will be occupied by a national organisation. The second phase of the development has detailed planning consent for over 40,000 sq.ft of new commercial space.

The land was brought to market by Loughborough-based specialist land development and property consultancy Mather Jamie Works are expected to be completed by the end of June 2023 and Wilten Construction, based in Market Harborough, has been appointed by the developer, VentURe Properties Group as the main contractor.

Other advisers and project partners on the development include RJA Consultants who are acting as the employers agent, Corporate Architecture Limited, engineering consultants Jackson Purdue Lever and the approved inspector, Assent Building Control Limited.

Work starts to build student village energy and data hub at Loughborough University

CONTRACTOR Henry Brothers has started work on site to build a new energy and data hub for the student village at Loughborough University.

The £3.25m design and build project includes new mechanical and electrical infrastructure, external works and landscaping, housed in a single-storey building on Elvyn Way in the centre of the university’s student village.

It will provide a district heating and hot water scheme for the student accommodation and will replace Whitworth Tower, where the existing energy hub is located.

This is the latest in a number of developments that Henry Brothers has delivered for the university. The company is currently on site building the four-storey SportPark Pavilion 4 – the first Passivhaus development on the university campus.

Previously Henry Brothers successfully delivered the £30m refurbishment scheme of the W and S buildings, completed the £3.6m Towers dining facility, and was the contractor for the £17m STEMLab building, which opened in 2017.

Managing director of Henry Brothers Construction several years we have built a strong and successful partnership with Loughborough University, helping the university to upgrade and create new facilities. We are excited to have now started on site to build a new energy and data hub for the student village.”

Designed by David Morley Architects, into the natural slope of the land.

The work will be carried out in three phases to maximise construction during periods when students are not in residence and is due to be completed by September 2023.

Other members of the team include structural engineer Ridge & Partners, M&E consultants Axis and FPCR landscape architects.

Correction to info in the October issue

SOME INCORRECT information was included in one of the Leicester City planning application details which we reproduced in the October issue. The printed details showed the wrong site address. Here is the correct version: Shilton Group Holdings Limited (c/o Agent: Kevin Walters, Walters Architects, Suite 2.21, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ) - Change of use of first, second and third floors from tattoo parlour and offices (6, 6a &6b Hotel Street), offices (4 Market Place), beauty salon (6 Market Place), offices and hairdressers (8 Market Place) to 14 flats (4 x studio, 8 x 1bed, 2 x 2bed)(Class C3); first floor extension to rear; alterations – at 6, 6a & 6b Hotel Street, 4 Market Place, 6 Market Place & 8 Market Place Leicester LE1 5AW.

Thanks for letting us know, and apologies for any confusion caused by this.

The inclusion

in this

does not necessarily imply a recommendation of

methods

cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission.

Builder Magazines reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All property details contained within this magazine are to be regarded as being for outline guidance only. All potential interested parties are requested to check individual availability of premises for accuracy of details with the relevant selling agents before proceeding further.

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Leicester City

Cheswold Welford Road Limited (c/o Agent: Miss Emma Bilton, Quod, Capitol House, Bond Court, Leeds LS1 5SP)Demolition of existing office building (Class E). Construction of new four, seven, ten and fifteen storey building for student accommodation (351 bedspaces)(Sui Generis) and 106 residential apartments (46 x 1 bed, 60 x 2 bed) (Class C3) with ground floor commercial, business and service unit (Class E); Car and cycle parking, landscaping and new pedestrian infrastructure - at James House, 55 Welford Road, Leicester LE2 7AR.

Mr J Shah (c/o Agent: Dennis Dziko, Volta Designs, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ) – Change of use from light industrial and office space to 5 two bedroom flats and a one bedroom flat, plus single storey rear extension – at 14 Overton Road, Leicester LE5 0JA.

AE Investment Limited (c/o: 1211 Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2JT) – Conversion of office building to create 3 residential flats – at 35A Arruga House, Millstone Lane, Leicester LE1 5JN.

CC Leicester Limited (c/o Agent: Mr Karl Scholz, Pearce Planning Limited, The Office, Woodspring House, 17 Hill Road, Clevedon, BS21 7NE) –

Demolition of existing buildings and erection of purpose-built student accommodation and ancillary works – at 48 Little Holme Street, Leicester LE3 5NG.

Mr Dhinsa (c/o Agent: SKM Design, Unit D, Edward House, Grange Business Park, Enderby Road, Leicester LE8 6EP) –

Demolition of existing buildings and structures and construction of two five-storey residential buildings with a central singlestorey podium, providing 88 flats, an ancillary residential clubhouse, hot desk space and residents-only gym, financial management office, car parking and communal amenity space36-42 Friday Street, Leicester LE1 3BW.

Construction activity continues to rise in October, but new orders fall for first time since May 2020

KEY FINDINGS

• Output growth edges up to its highest for five months

• Marginal decline in new work

• Business expectations drop to 29-month low

OCTOBER PMI® DATA indicated that the UK construction sector gained momentum, with total industry activity rising at the fastest pace since May.

Despite signalling a solid recovery in business activity from the downturn seen this summer, construction companies indicated that growth expectations for the year ahead remained very subdued. The degree of optimism fell sharply since September and was the lowest for almost twoand-ahalf years, reflecting falling volumes of new work and worries about the longer-term UK economic outlook.

The headline seasonally adjusted S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index® (PMI®) – which measures monthon-month changes in total industry activity – posted 53.2 in October, up from 52.3 in September and the highest reading since May. Moreover, the index continued to pick up from the 26-month low seen in July (48.9). Higher levels of business activity were attributed to a combination of new project starts and strong pipelines of unfinished work.

Commercial building was the best-performing category in October (index at 54.5), with output growth reaching a fivemonth high. Residential work also expanded (51.2), but at a softer pace than in September. Meanwhile, civil engineering activity decreased for the fourth month running (48.5).

Total new orders decreased slightly in October, which ended a 28-month period of sustained expansion. Construction companies noted weaker confidence among clients, alongside headwinds from rising input prices and higher borrowing costs. Some firms also reported a drop in new work due to heightened political uncertainty.

Rising construction output contributed to increases in input

buying and staff hiring during October. However, survey respondents noted that weaker demand contributed to a slowdown in the rate of job creation since September.

There were some positive signals for supply chain performance in October as instances of longer delivery times were the fewest since February 2020. Moreover, the seasonally adjusted Suppliers' Delivery Times Index was above its pre-pandemic average, which suggested that supply shortages and transport delays have eased considerably in comparison to the low point seen last year.

Despite a turnaround in supply chain pressures, latest data signalled another steep increase in average cost burdens across the construction sector. Higher purchasing prices were overwhelmingly linked to greater energy costs, fuel bills and the pass through of rising wages. This was partly offset by softer commodity price pressures. Measured overall, the rate of input cost inflation eased slightly since September and was the lowest for 20 months.

Looking ahead, construction firms are relatively downbeat about their growth projections for the year ahead. Around 33% of the survey panel anticipate a rise in business activity, while 26% predict a decline. The resulting index signalled the lowest degree of optimism since May 2020.

Many companies commented on recession worries and a drop in UK economic prospects due to rising political uncertainty. Meanwhile, those reporting positive sentiment in October often cited tender opportunities in niche markets or opportunities related to infrastructure spending (especially green energy projects).

Comment

Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, which compiles the survey said: "Construction output has staged a modest recovery after the downturn seen through much of this summer, with growth hitting a five-month high in October. Commercial work was the best-performing area of activity as delayed projects moved forward, while increased house building also provided a positive contribution to overall workloads.

"However, the forward-looking

survey indicators highlight that growth will be harder to achieve in the coming months as rising borrowing costs, economic uncertainty and cost constraints all had a negative influence on order books in October. The reduction in total new work was the first since May 2020 and this fuelled increased concerns about longer term tender opportunities.

"Business optimism regarding the year ahead slumped in October and was by far the weakest since the early pandemic months.

Construction firms cited concerns about a broad-based decline in client demand due to cutbacks on non-essential spending among clients, although some noted that growth linked to green energy projects, planned infrastructure spending and success in niche markets could help to offset the UK economic headwinds."

Dr John Glen, Chief Economist at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, said: "The construction sector offered a small improvement in output compared to September, maintaining its place in growth territory and rising at the fastest rate for almost six months. However, this positive result offered little in terms of comfort even though purchasing activity also rose and supply chain performance returned to near-normal levels, the sector remained under pressure from all sides.

"New business levels dropped for the first time since May 2020 so this momentum in output levels mostly came from projects in hand or those delayed rather than fresh assignments. Job creation was maintained so builders were able to complete unfinished work, but salary demands along with higher energy costs stripped away margins with inflationary pressures still high.

"The housing sector lost some of its momentum creeping closer to the no-change mark and sitting in a precarious position as the recent interest rate rise will impact on affordability rates for new homes in the months ahead. The UK is entering a recession and higher borrowing costs are intensifying these challenges, which combined to drag down builder optimism about the year ahead to its lowest level since May 2020."

www.spglobal.com.

My girlfriend’s run off, taken my tractor and left me a John Deere letter.

Mr Raman Visram (c/o Agent: Mrs Varsha Tailor, DT Designs Limited, 74a Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Change of use from offices to 3 selfcontained flats at the first floor, loft, associated bins, cycle storage and internal alterations

– at Flat 3-5, Roberts Road, Leicester LE4 5HG.

PA Housing (c/o Agent: Mr Timothy Chandler, calfordseaden, Stewart Court, 214a Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 9PH) – The provision of 12 flats and 2 three-bed houses as part of an affordable new build infill development – at land off Larch Street, Leicester.

Pala (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) – Change of use from public house to 10 flats including change of use of outbuilding from storage to a self-contained flat – at The Tudor, 100 Tudor Road, Leicester LE3 5HT.

GWH Limited (c/o: 4b Fir Tree Lane, Groby, Leicester LE6 0FH) – Proposed creation of 3 penthouse dwellings on the top of the existing property – at 44 Allied Place, Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD.

N Bari (c/o Agent: Michael Collins Architect, 118 South Knighton Road, Leicester LE2 3LQ) – Change of use from house into 2 flats, plus dormer to rear extension – at 30 Eastleigh Road, Leicester LE3 0DB.

Mr Viral Patel (c/o Agent: Mr Alex Brooks-Ball, Shaftesbury Design Practice Limited, 7 Shaftesbury Avenue, Sawley, Notts. NG10 3FG) – Ground floor wrap around extension to enable a change of use from three-bed domestic dwelling to 3 one-bedroom self-contained flats – at 1 Downham Avenue, Leicester LE4 0DJ.

Mr Sheekh Cabdalla Maxamuud (c/o Agent: Mr M A Bonham, Catalyst Design Limited, Branston Court, Branston Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham B18 6BA) – Extension to existing centre in two phases to include an additional two floors to provide 4 classrooms with separate entrance – at Markaz Quba, 21 Tichbourne Street, Leicester LE2 0NQ.

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

Monies owed

Problem: I run a small general builder’s business. In September 2022, we finished a job for a customer. The job was not large, but very ‘bitty’, mainly involving repairs and general maintenance to a bungalow, plus a reasonable amount of work in the garden including supplying and installing new timber fencing and laying a paved patio.

The quotation that we issued before we started was well detailed and set out the works we would be doing, and had prices of the work items, and the customer signed the quotation, and paid a deposit of £4,000.00.

The customer was not living in the bungalow during the works but came to site almost daily and could see the work progressing, and the standard. On the last day we were there, I walked with the customer around the job and he had no issues. About a week later, I sent to the customer the final invoice (just over £8,000), and this is when the customer started to raise concerns about the work.

I asked him to reply in writing, explaining all issues – no response. I then sent a final demand. A few more weeks went by and then he took to social media to express his issues and threatening us with Trading Standards.

I am now tempted to go to the County Court to recover the monies my company is owed. Before I do this, have you any advice?

Response: To recover £8,000, you would commence proceedings in the County Court (once you have gone through the Pre-Action Protocol), and it would be allocated to the Small Claims Track. You could also commence your claim through the Money Claim Online, which is quite simple and a little bit cheaper than filing your claim form in the traditional way (a hard copy).

To ensure that you give yourself the best possible chance of success, make sure that you have carried out the works to standard (the standard of which is usually to use reasonable skill and care), and that his issues can be defended.

You could also attempt to get him to remove the negative comments he has made on social media. In the first instance, you should send to him a ‘cease and desist’ letter requesting him to remove the negative comments. If this does not work, then you could wait until your court case is concluded, and if you are successful, you can use the judgement to add further weight to ‘persuade’ him to

remove the negative comments, or alternatively, contact the hosting companies – that said, if you intend to bring defamation proceedings, you only have one year from the date on which the cause of action accrued in which to commence proceedings.

If the matter is settled part way through proceedings or at the PreAction Protocol stage, part of the settlement agreement could also include him removing the negative comments from social media.

All that said, when you issued your quotation, did you advise your customer that he had a coolingoff period of 2 weeks? If not, that could also be a problem for you. I

Author background

Michael is a Solicitor, Chartered Builder & Registered Construction Adjudicator, and is a director at Michael Gerard Law Limited, a solicitors practice regulated by the SRA.

The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

will be writing an article on cooling off periods and consumer contracts in the New Year, so watch out for this!

© Michael Gerard 2022

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Moira development site for three dwellings

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a development site with planning permission for 3 large two storey dwellings on spacious plots.

The site – at the rear of Woodlands, Moira, Leics. DE12 6BP – has a Guide Price of £800,000.

Contact Anna Meynell at Howkins & Harrison on 01530 877977 (option 2) or email: anna.meynell@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Michael Gerard

Paul Quinn (c/o Agent: Mr Alex Bleasdale, ABC Surveying, 11 Carson Road, Gainsborough DN21 2RE) – Change of use from dwelling and shop to 2 flats – at 269 Abbey Lane, Leicester LE4 5QH.

Veema UK Limited (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) –Demolition of existing building and construction of 2 buildings to form accommodation of 8 flats plus associated parking and landscaping changes – at The Surgery, 612 Saffron Lane, Leicester LE2 6TD.

Mr Mandeep Poonian (c/o Agent: Mrs Varsha Tailor, DT Designs, 74a Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Proposed two storey side and rear extension, single storey front extension, 2 self-contained flats and alterations – at 75 Gainsborough Road, Leicester LE2 3DH.

GNG Football Club (c/o Agent: Studio 31 Architecture, 35 Upperton Road, Leicester LE3 0BH) – Landscaping works to existing football ground including storage containers and installation of 100-seater stand and viewing platform –at Riverside Football Ground, 44 Braunstone Lane East, Leicester LE3 2FD.

Charnwood

Mr Mohammed Tayaib Ali Chowdhury (c/o Agent: 365 Architecture Limited) - Prior Approval for change of use from Class E to 2 self-contained residential units on first floor – at 40A The Rushes, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 5BG.

Melanie Caumont (c/o Agent: WA Architecture) – Conversion of dwelling to provide 2 two bedroom flats plus first floor and single storey rear extension – at 4 Arthur Street, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3AY.

Mr Robert Powell – Conversion of coach house to 2 residential dwellings (Revised scheme) – at Flat 1, 55 Park Road, Loughborough, Leics.

Large Residential Scheme of the Year Award 2022

Winner: Wyggeston Hospital Hub and Cottages, Leicester

This award is sponsored by Jessup Partnerships Limited FOUNDED as an almshouse charity in 1513, Wyggeston Hospital has been providing sheltered housing, support and care for vulnerable older people in Leicester for more than 500 years.

A new administrative and entertainment Hub and additional housing were added to the existing extra-care accommodation whilst a newly landscaped scheme was provided for residents to enjoy.

To create a modern scheme in a traditional setting, external materials were carefully selected and past aesthetics were echoed in the new building styles.

Project Overview

The Hub provides a clear focal point to the site. Created for the residents to access its facilities and activities, it also contains a fully serviceable commercial kitchen and large patio to host fundraising or celebration events.

An attenuation pond has been placed at the heart of the site, as a focal resource for the residents, staff and wildlife.

The new ground floor of the Hub is now fully occupied, and the café is in daily use. All the new eight apartments and six cottages are occupied.During construction some of the dwellings were bought early in their build, enabling the purchasers to shape the internal finishes, layout and, in some cases, the external footprint. All the properties were sold.

Entered by Corporate Architecture Ltd

Parties involved

Client: Wyggeston Hospital Agent: Andrew Granger & Co

Architect: Corporate Architecture

Main contractor: S&S Contracting

Structural and civil engineer: BSP Consulting

Quantity surveyor: ADM Surveyors

Interior design: Renray Landscape architect: Keary Design Associates

Contract Value £4.75m

Completion Date January 2022

Scheme Location

Wyggeston Hospital Hinckley Road Leicester LE3 0UX

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a

The plot – at Lutterworth Road, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8PH –extends to 3.5 acres approx. Contact Henry Martin at Howkins & Harrison on 01788 564680 or email: henry.martin@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Sowden Group Limited (c/o Agent: Howes Percival) – Outline application for residential development for up to 28 dwellings – at land off Moor Lane, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 1FR.

Mr & Mrs Mawani (c/o Agent: A+G Architects Limited) –Proposed conversion of care home to 9 flats including two storey rear extension and associated works, including demolition of existing two storey rear extension – at Quarry Hill Grange Residential Home, Watling Street, Mountsorrel, Leics. LE12 7BD.

Swithland Agricultural Holdings (c/o Agent: Landmark Planning) – Prior Approval for the approval of conversion of agricultural barn to 2 dwellings – at land adjacent to 67 Main Street, Swithland, Leics. LE12 8TG.

Mrs Lucy Thompson-Pratt (c/o Agent: Andrew Granger & Co) – Outline application for 3 dwellings – at 98 Oakley Road, Shepshed, Leics. LE12 9AX.

Rutland

Mr Philip Davies (c/o Agent: Matt Taylor, Class Q Limited , The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PB) –Outline application for up to 62 dwellings with landscaping and open space – at land to the east of Normanton Road, Edith Weston, Rutland.

Mr Tom Joule (c/o Agent: Brian Mullin, Marrons Planning, 2 Colton Square, Leicester LE1 1QH) – Class Q Prior Approval for the conversion of two barns to 5 residential dwellings – at Agricultural Buildings, Manor Farm, Stoke Road, Lyddington, Rutland.

Mr Etienne Marais (c/o Agent: Matt Hubbard, The Planning Hub, Jubilee House, 79 Gertrude Road, West Bridgford, Notts. NG2 5DA) - Erection of 2 detached dwellings with associated car ports and access – at land to the rear of 58 Ashwell Road, Oakham, Rutland.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Fillongley development site

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a development site with planning consent for 3 new build dwellings.

The plots – at Green End Road, Fillongley, Warks. CV7 8BH – are for sale as a whole or in three lots.

Guide Prices: Plots 1 and 2: £750,000 each, Plot 3: £350,000.

Contact James Collier at Howkins & Harrison on 01827 721380 or email: james.collier@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Development

Tur Langton

Federation of Master Builders

Reform planning for small builders to deliver more homes

WE NEED A reform to planning in order for small builders to deliver more homes.

The need for more SME house builders to deliver better quality and diverse homes can only be delivered if the planning system is reformed, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to comments made by the Secretary of State Michael Gove MP on housing at the Margaret Thatcher Conference on Growth.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive at the FMB said “Small, local builders deliver high quality homes day in day out.

site

in

NAYLORS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 0.5 acre development site with full planning permission (Harborough District Council planning ref: 22/01113/FUL) for 4 detached dwellings.

Offers in excess of £650,000 are invited.

For more information, contact Naylors on 01858 450020 or email: sales@naylorsestateagents.com

Proposed development opportunity in Kibworth Beauchamp

JAMES Sellicks are offering for sale a proposed development site (subject to planning) at Station Street, Kibworth Beauchamp, Leics.

The original planning application received planning approval at the September planning committee of Harborough District Council.

The proposed revised scheme provides for 11 proposed plots in total, and is due to be presented at the December planning committee under the reference number 22/00814/FUL.

Offers in excess of £850,000 are invited.

Contact James Sellicks on 01858 410008 for more information, or email: mh@jamessellicks.com

“The Government needs to act to get small house builders unstuck from the complex planning system and back to delivering high quality, diverse homes, using skilled local workers.

“Michael Gove is adopting the right approach, but unfortunately substantial planning barriers stop the nation’s small house builders from delivering homes for their communities.

“It’s clear that better engagement with SMEs from local planning authorities would help deliver Government ambitions.”

Work starts on new homes and office development in Leicestershire village

WORK HAS officially started on a new homes and office development in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire.

The mixed-use site will bring nine properties and two commercial offices to the area, which will be marketed by Newtown Living.

Chartered quantity surveyor and project management experts Addison Hunt has been appointed to provide project management and quantity surveying services and will work alongside property development and construction company GS Developments, and architects rg+p, to deliver the project.

Granite Way continues the relationship between the firms, with recent Leicestershire project completions on a warehouse development at Parker Drive and affordable housing scheme at Abbey Meadows.

New homes, community hub and country park planned near Oadby

AS REPORTED in the Leicester Mercury, a major new housing development could be created on the edge of Oadby.

Some 232 new homes could be built in the fields off Windrush Drive, with developer Mulberry Land asking residents for their views on the scheme.

The new estate would be called Oadby Grange. The homes would be a mix of standard homes to rent and buy made up of of one- and two- bed flats; one-bed maisonettes, and two- to four-bed homes, as well as 70 ‘extra care’ apartments and 22 supported living homes. There would also be a new country park, a woodland nature trail, a community orchard and a play area for children. The proposal is only in its early stages, with the developer saying it intends to submit a formal planning application to Oadby and Wigston Borough Council following consultation with the community and the authority’s planning officers.

I

named my cat Nature, because it abhors a vacuum.

Mr Ashley Dennis (c/o Agent: Mrs K Brightman, Marrons Planning, Two Colton Square, Leicester LE1 1QH) – Proposed change of use from recreational woodland to a tourism use comprising 5 boutique eco forest retreats, a site office, storage, access and works – at land to the west of Station Road, Wing Hollow, Wing, Rutland.

Mr & Mrs Brand (c/o Agent: Tom Helliwell, Class Q Limited, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PG) –Outline application for up to 30 dwellings including access and associated infrastructure – at field to the north of Brooke Road, Braunston In Rutland, Rutland.

Harborough

Mr Liam O’Halloran (c/o Agent: Miss Hannah Vere, TMDP LLP, The Studio, 14A Church Street, Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 4AW) – Erection of 3 dwellings – at Fairlawn, Lutterworth Road, Dunton Bassett, Leics. LE17 5LF.

Mr Craig Birch (c/o: Station Farm, Station Road, Waltham on the Wolds, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 4AR) – Conversion of agricultural buildings to 2 dwellings and erection of one new dwelling, including demolition of modern farm buildings – at Greengates Farm, 23 Main Street, Sproxton, Leics. LE14 4QS.

Ms Lucy Graham (c/o Agent: Iain Downer, Class Q Limited, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PG) – Notification to determine if Prior Approval is required for the proposed change of use of agricultural buildings to 5 dwellinghouses and for associated operational development – at Carlton Curlieu Manor, Carlton Curlieu, Leics. LE8 0PB.

Mr McCurdy (c/o Agent: Paul Gaughan Building Consultants Limited, Unit E14, Langham Park Industrial Estate, Lows Lane, Stanton By Dale, Ilkeston DE7 4RJ) – Certificate of lawfulness of existing development for demolition of existing dwelling to facilitate residential development in accordance with approval 19/01373/FUL with confirmation that demolition constitutes a start on site – at land at 31 London Road, Great Glen, Leics.

‘No need to panic as housing market remains strong’, says expanding housebuilder

WIDESPREAD panic was unnecessarily spread throughout the UK as predictions that the housing market would suffer in the current economic climate were ‘way wide of the mark’, it has been claimed.

This was the opinion of Nicky Gordon, the Managing Director of rapidly expanding Cumbrian housebuilder Genesis Homes, who has been buoyed by recent reports of house prices remaining stable amidst a suggested fear

in some national media outlets that asking prices would be slashed to tempt buyers, while lenders have also started to reduce interest rates on mortgages to encourage movement in the market.

Nicky said: “Widespread fear has been sparked by the doom and gloom predicted for consumers, particularly those buying and selling houses, through the increase of interest rates and the possibility of house prices falling significantly.

“The reality of the situation is that interest rates are at an acceptable level of between 4.5-5.5%, which is the circa 70-year average that we should expect, and we have basically been spoiled for a number of years with interest rates being basically zero. We enjoyed it but we need to realise it couldn’t last forever.

“The current rate is still relative for lending and affordability testing, meaning people can still afford a mortgage and house prices are not expected to fall as was predicted by some.

“In fact, these predictions were way wide of the mark and what we are seeing now is that lenders are reducing their interest rates to tempt buyers into the market, and some rates are expected to drop under 4% in 2023 which is really positive news.

“The Government has set a target of 300,000 new homes to be built each year and we are going to fail miserably on that again in 2022, with the delays in building materials and labour shortages.

“So there is a real need for new housing, which will ultimately help with sustainability targets too, so we can see that there is no intention, particularly with the initiative of banks and mortgage lenders, for house prices to fall and we can only expect to see them increase in line with market expectations - albeit increase will be at more moderate than usual, pre-Covid levels.”

Nicky has taken further encouragement from words from the Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey who claimed that base rate increase expectations needed to fall even further.

He was quoted as saying that ‘the Bank Rate will have to go up by less than currently priced in financial markets’ and this suggested that rates would not increase to the unaffordable levels as first feared.

Nicky said: “This is further indication that the economic ‘disaster’ forecast by mainly tabloid doom mongers

Genesis Homes Managing Director Nicky Gordon claims predictions of the housing market would crumble were way wide of the mark.

may have been blown out of all proportion, and that there are plans and expectations in place to help the economy return to some sort of stability.”

Nicky was critical of the Government’s ‘disastrous’ handling of the economy which saw mortgage interest rates dramatically jump to 6.5% and some lenders temporarily stop lending in reaction to former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s ‘minibudget’.

He said: “The handling of the economy by Liz Truss and the Kwasieconomics was a complete shambles and that did nothing to reassure businesses in all sectors that the economy was in sound hands. The incompetence of the people in charge only increased panic that an economic problem was ahead.”

This week, Platform, owned by the Co-operative bank, became the first lender in more than a month to offer a five-year fixed-rate mortgage at under 5% when it introduced a 4.84% interest rate for borrowers.

The news coincided with online property agents Rightmove revealing that the average asking price of a house on the market has fallen by just 1.1% - which Nicky suggests is in line with usual pre-Covid falls in the run-up to Christmas.

He said: “Historically, before the days of Covid-19, the market slows in the winter months and those needing to sell will accept a slightly reduced amount, before a rise at the turn of the year when consumers approach a new year with added vigour for house buying and lifestyle changes.

“It will be interesting to see in the new year that we have returned to pre-Covid normality and the housing market remains on sound footing. I fully expect this to be the case.”

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Development site in Packington

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a development site with planning permission for 3 substantial detached dwellings in a popular village location.

The site – off Drum and Monkey Lane, Packington, Leics. LE65 1XQ – has a Guide Price of £875,000.

Contact Anna Meynell at Howkins & Harrison on 01530 877977 (option 2) or email: anna.meynell@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Development opportunity in Melton

BENTONS are offering for sale the King’s Head at Nottingham Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1NW.

The property has full planning permission (Melton Borough Council planning ref: 21/00710/FUL) for conversion into 30 apartments with two commercial ground floor units. Guide Price: £875,000.

For further information, contact Bentons on 01664 563892 or email: sales@bentons.co.uk

Walcote development opportunity

ANDREW GRANGER & CO are offering for sale a 0.08 acre development site adjacent to 27 Lutterworth Road, Walcote, Leics. LE17 4JU.

The plot has full planning permission (Harborough District Council planning ref: 22/00634/ FUL) for 4 dwellings. These will comprise a pair of semi-detached three-bedroom houses and a pair of semi-detached two-bedroom houses.

Price Guide: £350,000.

For more information, contact Andrew Granger on 01858 431315 or email sales@andrewgranger. co.uk

Most of the time I don’t have much fun. The rest of the time I don’t have any fun at all.

Charlie Stringer (c/o: Davidsons Developments, Wilson House, 207 Leicester Road, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6HP) – Erection of a local centre comprising retail units, 14 apartments and 6 dwellings with associated parking, creation of additional parking for the use of the adjacent sports pitches , landscaping and supporting infrastructure – at land to the west of Leicester Road, Market Harborough, Leics.

Ullesthorpe Court Hotel (c/o Agent: Lee Ward, Hayward Architects, Ground Floor, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) – Erection of an extension to clubhouse, installation of a golf driving range, pitching area and putting green (Variation of Condition 5 (temporary construction access) to allow for the construction access to be used for a subsequent development of holiday lets at the hotel and remove the need to close off the access once the construction phase of work is completed) – at Ullesthorpe Court, Frolesworth Road, ullesthorpe, Leics. LE17 5BZ.

Mr & Mrs S Kirk (c/o Agent: Timothy Bale, J.E.D. Design, 23 Harborough Road, Desborough NN14 2QX) – Erection of an agricultural building (Welfare Unit for Dairy Farm) – at Eastlongs Farm, Mowsley Lane, Walton, Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 5RE.

North West Leics.

Mr T Ashton (c/o Agent: Paul Chaston, GC Planning Partnership Limited, Bedford i-Lab, priory Business Park, Stannard Way, Bedford MK44 3RZ) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings and associated parking – at 23 Clyde Court, Thringstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 8LE.

Hexacon Investments Limited (c/o Agent: Will Bates, GWH Architects, Unit 4b, Fir Tree Lane, Groby, Leicester LE6 0FH) – Construction of 4 dwellings and one flat with car parking, landscaping, access and associated works following demolition of the existing shop premises – at 114 Chapel Street, Ibstock, Coalville, Leics. LE67 6HG.

£500 A Month Cashback Offer From William Davis

LEADING HOUSEBUILDER William Davis Homes is offering new buyers £500 a month cashback for two years, to help with the impact of increased mortgage rates and rising household bills.

The award-winning company has introduced a mortgage-busting deal to give potential buyers the financial power to move into their dream home.

William Davis Homes Sales Director Steve Rush said: “We know these are difficult times, when every penny counts, and that’s why we’ve arranged a fantastic offer to put more pounds in our buyers’ pockets.

“At William Davis, we’ve been making moving possible for over 87 yearsand now is no different. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, outgrowing your current home or looking to downsize, we have offers and options to help you make your move.”

New buyers will receive £500 a month for two years, subject to terms and conditions (full T&Cs on the William Davis Homes website). The offer is available only on selected homes and developments, with completions by 31st March 2023.

Research by the Home Builders Federation has found that buyers of new build homes could save up to £2,600 a year in their energy bills.

William Davis Homes has ten active developments across the Midlands and is currently building 70 eco-friendly homes in Sutton Bonington, Nottinghamshire.

Potential buyers can find out more about the full range of financial help available from William Davis Homes by contacting the sales teams, who are now available without making an appointment. Email sales@williamdavis. co.uk or contact an individual development via the website www. williamdavis.co.uk. Only one offer or incentive can be used per reservation.

Derby-based Armsons Barlow celebrates its 50th anniversary

East Midlands project managers, construction cost consultants and building surveyors Armsons Barlow have celebrated a milestone 50 years in business.

More than 100 staff, clients, associates and friends marked the occasion with an evening reception at the Derby Museum of Making. Armsons was established by Michael Armson in 1972 to offer specialist quantity surveying expertise to private and public sector clients across the region.

At the end of 2021, Armsons joined forces with chartered quantity surveyors and building surveyors Barlow & Associates to create Armsons Barlow and relocated from their long-standing home on Brick Row in Darley Abbey to Vernon Street in Derby.

The new combined business provides an expanded, multi-disciplinary operation which encompasses all major building and surveying sectors.

At the event, presentations were made to Michael Armson in recognition of his 50 years in business and to Stephen Fernie, who is celebrating 25 years with the firm.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Office building for sale in Mansfield

AUCTION ESTATES are offering for sale BY Auction a freehold detached twostorey office building with a total floor area of approximately 6,000 sq.feet.

The property – 32-34 Rosemary Street, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1QL – comprises serviced office rooms from 89 sq.feet to 2,500 sq.feet. There is a large private car park.

The selling agents believe that there is scope for conversion to residential use, subject to planning.

The property is being offered for sale by Public Auction on Thursday 8th December 2022 at The Nottingham Racecourse, The Centenary Suite, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE.

Guide Price: £250,000+

For more information, call Auction Estates on 0115 647 3213 or visit www.auctionestates.co.uk

Thornton plot

FOX SALES & LETTINGS are offering for sale a single plot with detailed planning consent (HBBC planning ref: 22/00792/ FUL) for the construction of a 2,286 sq.ft. luxurious contemporary two storey house.

The land – at Church Lane, Thornton, Leicestershire LE67 1AA – is being offered at a guide price of £230,000.

For more information, contact Fox Sales & Lettings on 01455 240932 or visit www.foxcountryproperties. co.uk

Development site for auction in Napton on the Hill

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale BY AUCTION a 0.67 acre development site for 2 fourbed detached houses.

The site – in Napton on the Hill, Near Southam, Warks. CV47 8JB – has a Guide Price of £275,000. The Auction ends on 8th December 2022 at 12 noon.

Contact Helen Frampton at Howkins & Harrison on 01788 564680 or email: helen.frampton@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Is it true that an apple a day keeps the doctor away or is it one of granny’s myths?

SLIDING DOORS & FURNITURE | White Levanto Marble

Our business is helping you build yours

Mr Richard Henderson (c/o Agent: John Gale, Savills, Wytham Court, 11 West Way, Oxford OX2 0QL) – Hybrid Application – Outline planning permission for proposed residential development of up to 150 dwellings, green and blue infrastructure, electricity substations and associated works; full planning permission for provision of sports pitch – at land north of Grange Road, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2BQ.

Mr Robert Ellis (c/o Agent: Daniel Evans, Matthew Montague Architects, The Cheese Factory, Longford Lane, Longford DE6 3DT) –Erection of 2 detached fourbedroom dwellings and garage accommodation – at land at Manor Court, Breedon of the Hill, Derby.

Oadby & Wigston

Dr Michael Keane (c/o Agent: Mr Kassim Caratella, First Floor, 85 Great Portland Street, London W1W 7LT) – Change of use from office building to 5 residential flats plus partial removal of front of existing building to create extra parking spaces – at The Old Surgery, 48 Bushloe End, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2BA.

Blaby

Mr John Anstee (c/o Agent: Lance Wiggins, Lion Planning, 14 Woodhouse Road, Quorn, Loughborough, Leics. LE12 8ED) – Application to determine if Prior Aproval is required for a proposed change of use of three agricultural buildings to dwellinghouses – at Yenwoods, Beggars Lane, Lubbesthorpe, Enderby, Leics. LE19 4LA.

Ms Charlotte Kozlowski (c/o Agent: Richard Cooke, Marrons Planning, Bridgeway House, Bridgeway, Stratford-uponAvon CV37 6YX) Erection of 8 dwellings with access from High Street and associated parking, landscaping and drainage – at land to the east of 26 High Street, Whetstone, Leicester.

Mr Jed Davies (c/o Agent: Mr Lee ward, Hayward Architects, Ground Floor, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) –Demolition of existing pre-fab offices and erection of new industrial unit – at The Works, Aston Lane, Sharnford, Leics. LE10 3PA.

PROCON LEICESTERSHIRE AWARDS 2022

Medium Residential Scheme of the Year Award 2022

Winner: The Old Mill, Great Glen

This award is sponsored by Ashe Group

The Old Mill is a lowdensity development of six new detached houses on the edge of Great Glen.

The bespoke homes in a countryside setting were designed to have their own individuality through proportion, placing and materials.

The site was challenging, with a foul main running across the site and an ancient right of way emerging during construction. A potential flood risk was managed by remodelling the topography.

Project Overview

The Old Mill is a new hamlet of six homes in a leafy and attractive site. The dwellings face the access road at different angles, giving the development a varied appearance that avoids monotony and overlooking.

A rich palette of materials, heavily influenced by the local vernacular, formed the basis of creating a bespoke finish for each individual dwelling.

Entered by Corporate Architecture Ltd

Parties involved

Client: Collingwood Developments

Architect: Corporate Architecture

Structural engineer: PRP

Civil engineer: Farrow Walsh Consulting

Main contractor: PC Building Services

Landscape architects: Keary Design Associates Contract Value

£3.5m

Completion Date January 2021

Scheme Location Old Mill Close Great Glen LE8 9EZ

During construction some of the dwellings were bought early in their build, enabling the purchasers to shape the internal finishes, layout and, in some cases, the external footprint. All the properties were sold.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Stoughton land for sale by auction

AUCTION ESTATES are offering for sale BY AUCTION a 0.296 acre freehold parcel of land which may suit residential development, subject to planning.

The land – adjacent to 19 Thurnby Lane, Stoughton, Leicester LE2 2FP – is being offered for sale by Public Auction on Thursday 8th December 2022 at The Nottingham Racecourse, The Centenary Suite, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE. Guide Price: £50,000+.

For more information, call Auction Estates on 0115 647 3213 or visit www.auctionestates.co.uk

Development Opportunity in Whetstone

(0.5 hectares) in the village of Whetstone.

Contact E A Lane & Sons on 0116 233 6433 or visit the website www. ealane.com for more information.

First Aid Training

Gain Skills - Save Lives

JACKDAW is an agile and tenacious company that provides First Aid Training throughout the UK. With over 30 years experience as a frontline responder in the Military and the Police I am able to provide realistic training which is backed up with real life experience of dealing with live casualties in emergency situations.

Where You Can Train

AT JACKDAW Training & Protective Services, we are able to bring our training programmes to your business venue, or we can supply high quality training venues here in the heart of Leicestershire.

BOSWORTH HALL HOTEL (above) is a top quality and affordable venue that supplies delegates with refreshments and a buffet lunch on our one and three day First Aid at Work programmes.

Guest Rooms are available too at a discounted rate if you wish to stay over during the training. The Hotel is near to good quality local bars and restaurants and the hotel has a great Gym and Spa for you to relax in after your days work, ideal for a team building training event.

Miss T Easton (c/o Agent: Tim Rogers, Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) – Application to determine if Prior Approval is required for a proposed change of use of agricultural buildings to dwellinghouses – at land and buildings adjacent to Normanton House Farm, Earl Shilton Road, Thurlaston, Leics. LE9 7TG.

Hinckley Bosworth&

Maruti Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: David Pendle, Marrons Planning, Waterfront House, Waterfront Plaza, 35 Station Street, Nottingham NG2 3DQ) – Proposed construction of 64 dwellinghouses including garages and garden stores with associated access works, landscaping, open space and drainage infrastructure – at land adjacent to Barlestone Garage, Newbold Road, Barlestone, Leics.

BCL (c/o Agent: Mrs Sinead Rose, Geoff Perry Associates Limited, The Shrubbery, 28 Erdington Road, Aldridge WS9 8UH) – Proposed construction of 45 dwellinghouses with garages, open space, landscaping, drainage and LEAP – at land at Crabtree Farm, Hinckley Road, Barwell, Leics.

Witherslack Group Limited (c/o Agent: Mr Connor Wigley, Broadgrove Planning and Development, Sinclair House, Station Road, Cheadle Hulme, SK8 5AF) – Change of use of Stretton House from a single dwellinghouse (C3 use) to a school for children with specialist educational needs (F1 (a) use); the provision of two new external classroom blocks; a new Multi-Use Gaming Area (MUGA); a new parking area featuring 84 spaces including disabled and minibus provision; upgrades to the existing vehicular access point and internal accessway; new fencing and boundary treatments; new landscaping; and associated works to facilitate the change of use – at Stretton House, Watling Street, Burbage, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 3HZ.

Developers claim land banking amendment is misguided

CHANGES TO the levelling up and regeneration bill allowing councils to withhold planning consent to developers slow to build on a site are counterproductive, claims the industry.

They argue that land banking is a myth and that developers are keen to build on sites as soon as possible to gain a return on investment.

Home Builders Federation, HBF, planning director Sam Stafford told Construction News: “Repeated independent investigations have concluded that homebuilders do not land bank.

“Builders are always keen to get on site as soon as possible and get a return on this investment, but there are many influences over how quickly a site can be built out.”

Economic conditions, finance, labour, supply shortages and the new building safety requirements are among the factors affecting prompt delivery.

The British Property Federation, BPF, has warned the government that the amendment to the bill could hamper future housebuilding.

“I think the amendment means well, but could be counterproductive, in that developers will not want to apply for planning permission until they have all their ducks in a row,” said BPF policy director Ian Fletcher in an interview with Construction News.

Councils guilty of land banking

The National Federation of Builders, NFB, said local planning authorities often allocate sites with outline planning permission but delay giving full planning permission or signing off a site.

“If there is so much concern about land banking, perhaps the government should force councils to give up their own copious amount of land, as under their own narrative, it is clearly being ‘banked’,” said NFB planning and policy head Rico Wojtulewicz.

Property finance intermediary Hank Zarihs Associates said it would help SME developers if councils could speed up the planning process and create a small sites list available to smaller local builders. The brokerage added this would make it easier for a wider range of lenders to offer development finance to SMEs.

The amendment to the levelling up and regeneration bill requires developers to report annually to councils on their progress. It also gives local authorities the power to block planning proposals from builders who have failed to deliver on the same land.

Charnwood Borough Council

J Tomlinson awarded two-year contract for Council home improvements

PROPERTY maintenance firm J Tomlinson has been awarded a two-year contract by Charnwood Borough Council to deliver planned improvements to council-owned homes across the borough.

The contract will include full and partial kitchen, bathroom and toilet replacements as part of the Council’s programme of improvements to its housing stock. It will also involve works such as internal and external structural alterations alongside refurbishments to empty properties.

The new contract came into place last month following a rigorous tendering process

The Council manages around 5,500 residential homes across the borough.

The two-year contract has potential to be extended for an additional twoyears and has an estimated value of around £9 million.

J Tomlinson were established in the 1950s by the Tomlinson family in Nottinghamshire. The business has expanded over the years, and they now work throughout the Midlands and the North of England.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Meeting hall for sale in

Leicester

SHONKI BROS are offering for sale BY AUCTION a freehold single storey building presently used as a meeting hall, at 3 Dore Road, Off East Park Road, Leicester LE5 5HG.

The 1,650 sq.feet of accommodation comprises: entrance area, main hall, dining area, kitchen, WC, two store rooms and cloak area. The site measures 3,609 sq.feet.

For sale BY AUCTION on Wednesday 14th December 2022 commencing at 5.00pm.

Guide Price: £179,000+

For more information, contact Shonki Bros (L.S.Sangra) on 0116 255 7573 or visit www.shonkibros. com

Potential development land in Glen Parva

SDL Property Auctions are offering for sale BY AUCTION a parcel of land which is considered suitable for a variety of uses, subject to planning.

The land – to the east of 65 Little Glen Road, Glen Parva, Leicester LE2 6TR – extends to 5.2 acres in total, of which 2.6 acres comprises greenfield potential development land. The remaining 2.6 acres is entirely located in flood zone 1. Guide Price: £300,000+ plus fees.

The Auction takes place on Tuesday 20th December 2022, starting at 10.00am. For more information, visit the auctioneer’s website at www.sdlauctions.co.uk

Redmile plot

RICHARD WATKINSON & Partners are offering for sale a 3.3 acre building plot with planning permission (Melton Borough Council planning ref: 20/01265/ FUL) for an ecologically inspired contemporary home plus a large garage/ workshop.

The plot – at Main Road, Redmile, Nottinghamshire NG13 0GS – has a Price Guide of £499,995. For more information, contact Richard Watkinson & Partners on 01949 836678 or email: bingham@richardwatkinson. co.uk

“Repeated independent investigations have concluded that homebuilders do not land bank.”

Sam Stafford, HBF

Jelson Homes (c/o Agent: Miss Bethany Carr, Avison Young, 3 Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2JB) – Residential development of up to 343 dwellings including provision of open space and associated infrastructure – at land opposite and south of Pumping Station, Aston Flamville Road, Burbage, Leics.

Mr & Mrs Denny (c/o Agent: Martin Ladd, Housemartin Design, The Carthouse, Charnells Court, Upperfields Farm, Main Street, Swepstone, Leics. LE67 2SG) – Construction of 3 detached dwellinghouses following demolition of existing dwelling – at The Old House Farm, Sutton Lane, Cadeby, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0AR.

Mr Faz Islam (c/o Agent: Mark Pringle, Making Plans Architecture, 5 Ivy Lodge, Twyford Road, Willington DE65 6DE) – Proposed 2 new apartments on first floor including new rooflights, windows and door – at 125-129 Main Street, Newbold Verdon, Leics. LE9 9NP.

Tariq Tariq (c/o Agent: Mr A Lennard, Perfect Planning Architectural Services Limited, Office 1F, Rugby House, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4FU)

– Proposed change of use from office to 4 flats, reposition of entrance door, provision of new windows and rendering to front elevation, internal alterations and associated altyerations to rear garden – at 122 High Street, Earl Shilton, Leics. LE9 7LQ.

Mr & Mrs Grice (c/o Agent: Mr Kristian Lawrence, Lawrence and Finley Architects Limited, 27 Templar Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 2AD) –Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of 2 new build dwellings including associated access and landscaping – at Greencrest, Higham Lane, Stoke Golding, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 6EX.

Mr Darren Statham (c/o Agent: Mr Alec Statham, Garland Stud, Bagworth Road, barlestone, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0JA)

– Proposed 2 single storey dwellinghouses and a double garage with associated access and parking – at 26 Newbold Road, Barlestone, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0DZ.

Leicester’s emerging Local Plan set to progress to next stage

LEICESTER City Council has prepared the final version of its Local Plan for consultation in the New Year.

A Local Plan sets out how local authorities propose to organise and allow development through the planning process for the next 15 years. It is a legal requirement that all authorities draw up and adopt a Local Plan.

As part of the process of adopting a new plan in Leicester, three consultations have already been carried out. Initial options were consulted on in 2014, before a further consultation in 2017 looked at possible sites in the city that could be allocated for future development. A consultation in 2020 set out draft policies and recommended sites that could be developed to meet Government targets, which have increased considerably over the course of preparing for a new Local Plan.

To find out more, visit https://consultations. leicester.gov.uk/planning/ local-plan-documents/

Feedback has been gathered from these consultations and incorporated into the latest Local Plan. Other factors have also been taken into account, such as changing legislation and the need to incorporate key local policies on topics such as health, heritage, biodiversity and climate change.

As a result, some proposed development sites for the new Local Plan have been removed or modified. Changes have also been made to increase the number of homes that will be built on brownfield sites and in the city centre.

The overall housing need for Leicester between 2020 and 2036 is 39,424 homes in total, which includes homes already completed and existing planning permissions. In terms of new site allocations, 6,668 (71%) homes are proposed on brownfield sites in the city, with 2,686 (29%) planned on greenfield sites.

The Plan is supported by an agreement with councils in Leicestershire – known as a statement of common ground – which will form a key part of Leicester’s Local Plan. This means 18,700 of the total 39,424 homes the Government says Leicester needs to build by 2036 will be built on land outside of the city’s boundaries. In addition, around 23 hectares of employment land - from a total requirement of 65 hectares - will be allocated outside of the city, on behalf of Leicester.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “It’s been a long road getting to this point in developing a new Local Plan, with delays to our consultation processes due to covid, and constantly changing legislation to factor in.

“While we have been developing the Plan, the Government increased our housing need by 35%, adding a further 9,712 homes to our need between 2020 and 2036. In March 2022, it then published more new data which increased housing need in the city by a further 2,800 homes, raising our overall housing need for Leicester between 2020 and 2036 to 39,424 homes in total. This is very challenging indeed.

“But thankfully, the support and co-operation of our neighbouring local authorities means we can now move ahead with a plan that will give us all local control over where and how development takes place.

“Leicester is a city with very tight boundaries, so there is simply not enough space for the amount of homes and employment land the Government says we must provide. Despite this, we are doing all we can to make best use of the land we do have – for example by utilising brownfield sites where we can, providing more homes in the central development area and revisiting our policy on tall buildings.

“We are working to strike a balance between providing the homes and jobs needed for Leicester to continue to thrive, and protecting our important heritage, biodiversity and green spaces. A Local Plan is our best and only chance of having local control over decisions like these.”

Leicester’s emerging Local Plan will run to 2036.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Site for 26 dwellings in Bodicote

BROWN & CO are offering for sale a 2.72 acre residential development site with Outline Planning Permission (Cherwell District Council ref: 19/02350/OUT) for 26 dwellings.

The site – at Deerfields Farm, Bodicote, Near Banbury, Oxfordshire OX15 4AD – is clear and level and has been predominantly in agricultural use. The agricultural buildings are to be removed from site before completion of contracts.

For sale by Informal Tender, based on a Guide Price of £2,500,000. For more information, contact the Banbury office of Brown & Co. on 01295 273 555 or email: banbury@brown-co.com

Former Community Centre in Hatton

SDL PROPERTY Auctions are offering for sale BY AUCTION the Former Community Centre at Station Road, Hatton, Derby DE65 5EH.

The property comprises a freehold former adult education centre together with a substantial car park on a site of 0.1496 hectares.

The property is considered suitable for the creation of 2 residential dwellings (subject to planning). The selling agents feel that a scheme of circa 8 units may be possible on the car park, again subject to planning.

Guide Price: £235,000+ plus fees.

The Auction takes place on Tuesday 20th December 2022, starting at 10.00am. For more information, visit the auctioneer’s website at www.sdlauctions.co.uk

Development opportunity in

Melton CONNELLS are offering for sale a residential development site on Park Lane, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PT.

The property – The Penman Spicer Community Hall – has been granted planning permission (Melton Borough Council planning refs: 21/00056/FUL & APP/Y2430/W/22/3293509) for conversion to 5 apartments.

The Guide Price is £250,000.

For more information, contact Connells on 01664 560241 or email: meltonmowbray@connells. co.uk

They say winning isn’t everything and I’ve decided to take their word for it.

Full

Less than 20 minutes to NEC/Birmingham International/M42 J6

Rural location with excellent southerly views 2 x 4,600 sq ft dwellings and one 1,550 sq ft dwelling

Large plots (total site over 3 acres)

Please contact James Collier, 01827 721380 (james collier@howkinsandharrison co uk)

Development site to the rear of the Woodlands, Moira, Derbyshire, DE12 6BP Guide price £800,000

An opportunity to acquire a development site with planning permission for three large detached dwellings in an attractive location.

Planning permission for 3 large detached two storey dwellings

Large spacious plots

Attractive location surrounded by mature trees giving a feeling of privacy

Close to the market town of Ashby de la Zouch

Well connected to the Midlands motorway network with the M42 in close proximity

Please contact Anna Meynell, 01530 877977 (option 2) (anna.meynell@howkinsandharrison.co.uk)

A development site for two 4 bedroom detached houses (GIA 2,300 sq ft) with planning & reserved matters Extending to approx. 0.67 acres (0.27ha) or thereabouts.

Please contact Helen Frampton, 01788 564680 (helen.frampton@howkinsandharrison.co.uk)

A freehold development plot with planning permission for one detached dwelling extending to 3000+ sq ft together another 3000 sq ft of detached garages and stable block The site extends to 3 5 acres (1 41ha) or thereabouts. The existing site includes a detached dwelling together with a concrete and hardcore yard & permanent pasture

Please contact Henry Martin, 01788 564680 (henry martin@howkinsandharrison co uk

North Northants.

M & A Knightsbridge Properties Limited (c/o Agent: Miss Beth Evans, Freeths LLP, Cumberland Court, 80 Mount Street, Nottingham NG1 6HH) – Construction of 2 residential dwellings with access, car parking, landscaping and associated works – at land at Slipton Lane, Slipton, Kettering, Northants. NN14 3AS.

Glendale Securities Limited (c/o Agent: Miss Katherine Davis, Blueprint Architectural Design, 5 Blotts Barn Business centre, Brooks Road, Raunds, Northants. NN9 6NS) – Change of use of upper floor to residential accommodation comprising 2 one-bed apartments and 2 two-bed apartments with new front door and rear amenity space – at First Floor, 95 High Street, Rushden, Northants. NN10 0NZ.

Charlton Gray Homes Limited (c/o Agent: AnnaLouise Jardine, Copper Beech Architecture, 21 Mallows Drive, Raunds, Northants. NN9 6SE) – Application to determine if prior Approval is required for change of use from Commercial, Business & Service Use to dwellinghouses – at 11 Washbrook Road, Rushden, Northants. NN10 9UY.

Resham Limited (c/o Agent: Alan Gunne-Jones, Planning & Development Associates Limited, Suite 155, 155 Minories, City of London EC3N 1AD) –Proposed erection of a single block containing 6 apartments together with associated parking, landscaping, and refuse & cycle storage – at land off St Peter’s Way, Irthlingborough, Northants. NN9 5SD.

Country Court Care Homes 5 Limited (c/o Agent: Mr Arjun Lal, Boyer Planning, 2nd Floor, 24 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HF) – Redevelopment of the site comprising the relocation and consolidation of the existing Olive Grove Garden Centre including associated polytunnels and development of an elderly care home with ancillary café and associated landscaping and car parking –at Olive Grove, Oundle Road, Polebrook, Peterborough PE8 5LQ.

Prime land sale secures future of residential development

SOME FOUR ACRES of prime land earmarked for a residential development in Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire, has been acquired by a Derby-based developer.

The deal was orchestrated by property consultants at Fisher German, on behalf of a private landowner and will undoubtedly help meet the ongoing demand for new homes.

Previously, an initial planning application for fifty dwellings was refused when the appeal was dismissed in 2019; subsequent planning permission for 36 dwellings was granted in October 2021.

The landowner has been working with the Fisher German development team on promoting the sale of the land since 2016, during which time they had seen planning for 50 houses declined and a subsequent appeal dismissed. Undeterred, the land finally attained planning permission for 36 new dwellings in 2021.

Acting on behalf of the landowner, Fisher German played a key role in facilitating the sale by inviting numerous parties to submit their proposals, before securing an option agreement that enabled JK Land Limited to purchase the land within an agreed time frame, as well as negotiating a sale price upon the granting of planning permission.

Commenting on the deal, Luke Brafield, Partner in Fisher German’s Development team, says: “This proposed development has involved a number of planning and technical challenges. As such, it is a project that enabled us to demonstrate our varied expertise in strategic land promotion, ranging from sourcing developer partners and negotiating terms, to advising on planning promotion and negotiating prices for option agreements.

“We are delighted to have assisted in facilitating this deal and very much look forward to seeing a scheme being delivered.”

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Former railway land for sale

BY AUCTION

AUCTION ESTATES are offering for sale a 7.8 acre parcel of former railway land between Charnwood Road and Tickow Lane, Shepshed, LE12 9NR

The land - comprising grass areas, trees, footpaths and vegetation – is being offered for sale by Public Auction on Thursday 8th December 2022 at The Nottingham Racecourse, The Centenary Suite, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE.

Guide Price: £5,000+

For more information, call Auction Estates on 0115 647 3213 or visit www.auctionestates.co.uk

Development

Opportunity – Ratby Lane, Markfield

E A LANE & SONS are asking for expressions of interest from Developers for a residential development opportunity extending to 4.20 acres (1.70 hectares) in the village of Markfield.

Contact E A Lane & Sons on 0116 233 6433 or visit the website www. ealane.com for more information.

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.

I’m

not racist, but I absolutely hate marathons.

J L Ashby & Co Limited (c/o Agent: Miss Lauren May, Berrys, 42 Headlands, Kettering, Northants. NN15 7HR) –Outline application for the residential development of up to 23 dwellings and associated works and construction of an attenuation pond – at Rectory Farm, Hemington Road, Polebrook.

Gregorio & Serri (c/o Agent: S Pinaitiene, SEP Design, 12 The Leys, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes MK17 8QF) – Alterations and conversion of existing two-storey dwellinghouse and detached workshop into 4 self-contained flats – at 62 High Street, Irthlingborough, Northants. NN9 5TN.

Longhurst Group (c/o Agent: E Dukes, rg+p Limited, Waterloo House, 71 Princess Road West, Leicester LE1 6TR) – Demolition of existing garages and construction of 2 affordable bungalows with associated landscaping and parking – at land adjacent to 76 St Peter’s Road, Oundle, Northants.

Country Court Care Homes, Lisa Jane Olver & Samuel Thomas Olver (c/o Agent: Mrs Liz Young, Freeths, Cumberland Court, 80 Mount Street, Nottingham NG1 6HH) –Erection of a 44-bed Care Home and access – at land rear of Exeter Arms, Stamford Road, Easton on the Hill, Northants. PE9 3NS.

Mr D Bierton (c/o Agent: Simon Tindle, Brown & Co, The Fairways, Wyboston Lakes, Great North Road, St Neots, MK43 3AL) – Outline planning application for up to 9 dwellings, including access – at land west of Warren Bridge, Oundle PE8 4DQ.

LEICESTERSHIRE AWARDS 2022

Small Residential Scheme of the Year Award 2022

Winner: The Warren, Bitteswell

This award is sponsored by Ashe Group

The Warren is a bespoke family home designed to include new and innovative materials and technologies to reduce its environmental impact.

On the edge of Bitteswell village, the home was created using several specialist suppliers including an insulated foundation system from Sweden.

The Warren has a fully automated building management system with intelligent heating and lighting control, security systems and a home cinema.

Hybrid solar thermal roof panels collect energy and heat. A below-ground thermal energy bank stores the thermal energy from the panels.

Project Overview

The Warren is a two-storey, domestic scale dwelling that was designed to look unimposing within its landscape setting. It was constructed with a timber frame which is clad externally with a combination of white render and

Thermowood timber cladding. The cladding was bespoke and set out to a specific pattern.

Slimline glazed windows and doors provide floor-to-ceiling glazing to the east wing of the house and large sliding doors provide access to the formal garden space.

Franklin Ellis Architects becomes employee-owned

FRANKLIN ELLIS Architects has transferred to an Employee-Owned Trust. The firm, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in a few months, ensures their continued success with the transition to employee-ownership.

Founded as a limited company in 1993 by David Franklin and Andrew Ellis, Franklin Ellis have grown considerably, now employing over 30 staff, with two permanent offices in Nottingham and Leicester. The Practice delivers architectural services in all major development sectors within the East Midlands, and across the UK.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Development opportunity in Ab Kettleby

MIKE FORD Estate Agents are offering for sale a development opportunity at Wartnaby Road, Ab Kettleby, Leics.

Outline planning permission has been granted for 2 brand new detached houses.

The asking price is £550,000.

For further details, contact Mike Ford Estate Agents on 01664 480422 or email: sales@ mikefordestateagents.co.uk

Surfing is

a good choice for people who like skateboarding but wish it had more sharks.

MOBILE NETWORKS are being improved in many areas, boosting speed, performance and coverage. There is a small chance these upgrades may cause interference to TV received through an aerial such as Freeview, BT, TalkTalk and YouView.

Symptoms could include intermittent sound, blocky images (pixelation) or loss of TV signal.

Free support is available from Restore TV. Restore TV’s role is to ensure people can continue to enjoy free to view TV when mobile is upgraded in their area. It provides help to anyone experiencing interference to TV services caused by mobile signals. Restore TV offers additional support for people who are 75 years of age or older, are registered blind or partially sighted or receive any of the following benefits: personal independence payments (PIPs); attendance allowance; constant attendance allowance or War Pensioner’s Mobility Support.

Ben Roome, CEO of Restore TV, said: “If you see new TV interference, we’re on hand to help you resolve the issue. We can send a Restore TV filter, free of charge, for you to fit between

your aerial lead and TV or set-top box to remove mobile signals and allow you to watch free to view TV as normal. Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed.

“In most instances, fitting the filter will resolve any issues, but if this isn’t the case, we may also be able to arrange a follow-up visit from a Restore TV engineer at no cost, depending on eligibility.”

Cable and satellite TV, such as Sky or Virgin, are not affected. However, viewers with these services, who also watch free to view TV through an aerial, can receive a free Restore TV filter.

Residents are more likely to be affected if they live in an area with weak digital television reception, have a TV signal booster and whose TV aerial is close to a mobile mast.

For residents in flats or communal buildings, Restore TV provides landlords or property managers with support to resolve the problem.

Any viewers who experience new interference to free to view TV should contact Restore TV free on: 0808 13 13 800 or visit restoretv.uk

Travis Perkins Clearance

Leicester

Longhurst Group (c/o Agent: E Dukes, rg+p Limited, Waterloo House, 71 Princess Road West, Leicester LE1 6TR) – Demolition of existing garages and construction of 4 affordable bungalows with associated landscaping and parking – at land to the rear of Slater’s Close, Rushden, Northants.

Longhurst Group (c/o Agent: E Dukes, rg+p Limited, Waterloo House, 71 Princess Road West, Leicester LE1 6TR) – Demolition of existing garages and construction of 2 affordable bungalows with associated landscaping and parking – at land adjacent to 11 & 12 The leys, Woodford, Northants.

South Derbyshire

Newton Lane Farming (c/o Agent: Mrs Kay Carpenter, KC Planning & Development, Grove House, Church Street, Whatton in the Vale, Notts. NG13 9EL) – Conversion of agricultural buildings to create 4 dwellings, new garaging and demolition of redundant buildings – at Newton Lane Farm, Newton Lane, Newton Solney, Burton on Trent DE15 0RU.

Rushcliffe

Mr O and C Blake and Daynes (c/o Agent: Richard Cooper, HSSP Architects Limited, Pera Business Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Erection of two storey building to be used for administration, distribution, maintenance of vehicles, MOT testing and coach building, plus associated works including access, landscaping, car parking and drainage works – at JIT Logistics Limited, Distribution House, Building 83, Harby Road, Langar, Nottingham NG13 9HY.

Positive growth for rg+p’s planning division

CHRIS LINDLEY, director at rg+p has announced two new appointments at the company’s planning division.

“Since I joined the practice circa 18 months ago, the team and our work has evolved quite significantly,” says Chris. “Two new senior planners, Ellie Dukes and Dale Radford have joined with backgrounds in planning policy and development management respectively, meaning we’ve been able to collaborate more closely with our design colleagues, especially on the architecture and placemaking sides.

“We’ve also increased the diversity of our portfolio, undertaking several projects in historic environments involving listed building and scheduled monument consent regimes. This includes the Butterley Engineering site in Derbyshire where our work is supporting a significant regeneration project. Further diversification has seen us appointed on renewable energy schemes including solar PV installations in sensitive environments such as the Grade II listed St Mary’s College in Oscott, West Midlands.

“Of course, this is not to discount our work in the housing sector, where we remain especially active, working for five leading affordable and specialist housing providers across the UK as well as promoting strategic land opportunities including an outline planning application we have recently submitted in the Derbyshire Dales for respected land promoters, Richborough Estates.

“Looking ahead, there are inevitably challenges to navigate. Firstly, urgent reform is needed in the planning sector to rebalance resources and unblock the sheer volume of cases so that development can progress. Secondly, more effective and constructive communication between public and private sector colleagues is absolutely essential as it can overcome these resource challenges and focus professional debate.

rg+p’s planning director, Chris Lindley (centre) reports positive growth for the firm’s planning division, including the appointment of senior planners, Dale Radford (left) and Ellie Dukes (right).

“Unfortunately, the pandemic has exacerbated a reliance on virtual communication and this prohibits building natural rapport. There are some local authorities positively addressing this by re-introducing forums for discussion, and their officers and members should be applauded for this, but it’s needed as standard practice on a national scale to bring professionals together and promote positive dialogue.

“From an rg+p perspective, we anticipate several significant instructions maturing over the next year as we continue to support our architecture and project management colleagues and diversify further into the commercial, student and education sectors, meaning we are therefore likely to recruit in the near future. We’re also seeking to become more knowledge-led, using our expertise and awareness of legislative reform to add value for clients,” concludes Chris.

Plans in for major student scheme in Leicester

to

City Council. The proposals for the Gill Knitwear site at 48 Little Holme Street are to be delivered by ECE Westworks alongside Crown Student Living.The application site is within walking distance to both of Leicester’s universities.

The planned scheme comprises 646 beds of managed student accommodation, varying from studios to multi-level cluster apartments. These would be supported by associated landscaping, ancillary and communal facilities.

The building would vary in height from seven to eleven storeys with a six-storey connecting spine.

My wife and I have been keeping an eye on our spending. From what we can see, we’re very, very good at it.

Harwood (c/o Agent: Mr George Machin, GraceMachin Planning & Property, 2 Hollowstone, The Lace Market, Nottingham NG1 1JH) – Proposed conversion of barn to form one dwelling and removal of a grain store to form 2 dwellings – at The Limes Farm, Cropwell Road, Langar, Nottingham NG13 9HD.

Mr Nic Morgan (c/o Agent: Peter Prescott, PP Building Design Limited, 1 Hartington Road, Nottingham NG5 2GU) – Two storey extension and dormer window to rear plus change of use from offices to office/retail unit and 2 flats – at 147 Trent Boulevard, West Bridgford, Nottingham.

Venari Land Limited (c/o Agent: Jason Lowes, Rapleys LLP, 66 St James’s Street, London SW1A 1NE) – Erection of Roadside Service Area (RSA), including a single storey RSA building, four island petrol filling station forecourt and canopy, Electric Vehicle charging bays, HGV fuelling facilities, canopy and parking, a drivethru coffee unit and associated development, including car parking, circulation space and new access from the A606, onsite and perimeter landscaping, drainage infrastructure including attenuation ponds and swales and boundary treatment – at land at junction of A606 Widmerpool and Fosse Way, Hickling Pastures, Nottinghamshire.

Edwalton Properties Limited (c/o Agent: Jonathan Protheroe, Oxalis Planning Limited, Toll Bar House, Landmere Lane, Edwalton, Nottingham NG12 4DG) – Hybrid planning application comprising full planning application for the erection of a drive-thru coffee shop with associated access, parking (including 10 electric vehicle charging points), landscaping and associated infrastructure works, and outline planning application for construction of office building including associated parking, infrastructure and landscaping works – at Landmere Lane, Edwalton, Nottinghamshire NG12 4DG.

Forterra appoints Chief Executive Officer

LEADING building products manufacturer, Forterra, has announced that Neil Ash will become Chief Executive Officer designate from 3rd April 2023.

This appointment follows the announcement earlier this year that Stephen Harrison would be stepping down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) during the first half of 2023, allowing time both to commission the new Desford brick factory and support an orderly transition.

Neil has almost three decades’ experience in the building materials sector and an impressive track record of improving performance and delivering growth. Currently at Etex, the Belgian lightweight building materials manufacturer, he leads the Building Performance division which is a €2 billion revenue business. During his time at Etex Neil oversaw major capex projects, significant acquisitions, and developed its sales approach which delivered strong top line growth.

His experience includes 15 years at Lafarge, where he undertook many roles, including the role of Vice President International Business

Development and Sales and Commercial Director UK & Ireland of Lafarge Plasterboard.

Justin Atkinson, Chairman of the Board at Forterra, said “We are very pleased to appoint Neil as the next CEO. His business leadership and extensive building materials sector knowledge will be invaluable to Forterra in the next stages of our development and the Board looks forward to working with him.

“The Board and I are grateful to Stephen Harrison for the significant contribution he has made to the business during his tenure as CEO. We wish him all the best for the future after he leaves Forterra in the second quarter of 2023.”

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Development site in Wymondham

ANDREW GRANGER & CO are offering a 0.77 acre development site at the junction of Main Street and Chapel Lane, Wymondham, Leics. LE14 2AA.

Detailed planning consent (Melton Borough Council planning ref: 20/00444/FUL) has been granted for the residential conversion of two disused chapel buildings and the erection of 5 new build dwellings.

Price Guide: £950,000.

For more information, phone David Woodfield at Andrew Granger & Co on 01509 235534 or email: David.woodfield@ andrewgranger.co.uk

Construction Estimator to the building trade

www.fordestimatingservices.co.uk

Call Martin on 07860 695 806

Or Email: martin@fordestimatingservices.co.uk

Mr Amit Nath (c/o Agent: Mr Mitch Beard, A1 Architecture, Office 103, 1 hanley street, Nottingham NG1 5BL) –Conversion of existing dwelling to 5 flats – at Baba Dough, 3 Radcliffe Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5FF.

Sharon Hunt (c/o Agent: Mr George Machin, GraceMachin Planning & Property, 2 Hollowstone, The Lace Market, Nottingham NG1 1JH) – Prior Approval application for a proposed change of use of existing agricultural building to 2 dwellinghouses and creation of domestic curtilages – at The Abbey, Abbey Lane, Aslockton, Nottingham NG13 9AE.

Mr Hunt (c/o Agent: Mrs Tracy Longworth, Longworth Associates, The Coach House, 21 Cotgrave Lane, Tollerton, Nottingham NG12 5FX) –Demolition of bungalow; erection of 3 two-storey dwellings and one bungalow with associated landscaping and access works – at The Orchard, Long Lane, Hickling, Nottinghamshire LE14 3AG.

Neil Ash – Newly appointed CEO of Forterra

One in four small firms plan to close, downsize, or restructure if energy bills relief ends in April next year

SMALL FIRMS’ survival during the ongoing energy price crisis will depend on continued government support through Energy Bill Relief Scheme (EBRS) beyond March 2023, according to a new Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) energy survey.

The survey, which measured the impact of the energy price crisis on small businesses, shows small firms await with both hope and anxiety for clarity on whether they will still be eligible for support amid the on-going government review of the six-month scheme, which is due to end on April 1, 2023.

The findings have been submitted to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

A quarter of small firms (24%) plan to close, downsize, or radically change their business model if the government reduces energy support post-March next year.

This rises to 42% of firms in the accommodation and food sector, followed by the wholesale and retail (34%), and manufacturing sectors (29%).

More than four in ten small firms (44%) are considering raising prices to cope with soaring bills when the current EBRS is due to end, and a third (30%) expect to cancel or scale down planned investments.

One in five (18%) have said they would need to keep prices the same, even though their energy bills are increasing, because customers simply cannot afford further increases.

A majority of 63% say energy costs have increased this year compared to last year. Some 44% report a double, triple or even higher increase in their energy bills, and nearly one in five (19%) say their bills had tripled or higher.

In response to the eye-watering bills, nearly half of small firms (46%) have already raised prices although it has been impossible for them to pass on full costs to consumers tightening their belts amid the cost of living rises.

In light of the findings, FSB suggests the government should

• Continue support under the current EBRS to avoid a cliff edge on April 1, 2023;

• Consider the size, not just sector or geography, of firms when determining which businesses are vulnerable, and therefore entitled for further support;

• Maximise planning certainty over the long-term so that small businesses can plan ahead; and

• Help small businesses to invest in energy efficiency, through incentives like voucher schemes

FSB development manager, Natalie Gasson-McKinley, (pictured) said: “Our research indicates that small firms are being held back from investment and are at the brink of collapse because of sky-rocketing energy costs. It’d be a real shame and great loss to our economy if those who managed to get through the pandemic and this tough winter with government support end up closing their businesses because relief ends too sharply in April.

“Latest OECD forecasts suggest the UK economy will suffer the biggest hit from energy crisis among G7 nations. But the tides can be turned if the government extends the period of energy support to struggling small businesses after the EBRS ends in April next year.

“It’s important that the government provide certainty to small firms for the long-term as they can’t plan on a six-month horizon.

“Think of the engineering business in Hampshire which 40 local families are dependent on, and the independent launderette that has been serving the community for years. To allow well-run businesses to go under would be a false economy as we enter a recession.

“Business size must be taken into account as a relevant factor in the government review of the EBRS, given the stark impact on small firms which have typically lower margins and are least able to deal with the rising costs. It can’t be a purely sector-based decision, otherwise it’ll lead to deadweight and unfairness.”

Student accommodation and Build to Rent apartment scheme planned for site of Leicester office building

PROPOSALS have been submitted for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and a Build to Rent (BtR) apartment scheme on Welford Road in Leicester.

Cheswold Welford Road Limited are seeking full planning permission to redevelop James House for the scheme.

The plans involve the demolition of the existing office building at the site to make way for a student accommodation block providing 351 bedspaces, and a Build to Rent block providing 106 apartments made up of 46 one bed and 60 two bed flats.

There would also be a commercial unit on the ground floor.