Leicestershire Builder Nov.2022

LEICESTERSHIRE BUILDER

Site Manager Henry prepares to hang up his hard hat

A SENIOR SITE MANAGER for David Wilson Homes East Midlands has taken a look back on his career full of industry honours after going part-time ahead of his retirement.

Henry Patecki first joined the Coalville-based housebuilder in October 1997 and, 25 years down the line, is now preparing to bid farewell to the industry he’s achieved so much success in after taking on a part-time role with his longstanding employer.

During his time at David Wilson Homes, he’s won 20 Pride in the Job Quality awards from the National House Building Council (NHBC), nine Seals of Excellence, four Regional accolades, a Supreme Award and Lifetime Achievement recognition. He was also runner-up in the Supreme Awards in 2021.

Henry was most recently based at David Wilson Homes’ Wigston Meadows development in Wigston, but will soon be able to enjoy his retirement having become one of the very best in the business.

Former Leicestershire farm to be transformed into luxury wedding venue

PLANNING APPROVAL to transform Scraptoft Lodge Farm into a luxury event space has been granted –creating around 25 local jobs at the point of completion.

Supported by planning experts Marrons Planning, local entrepreneur Mehul Somani will undertake a full renovation of the derelict farm complex –converting the farmhouse, rebuilding the outbuilding and adding a full extension to facilitate an events space, restaurant and bar, alongside 109 car parking spaces, eight of which will include electric vehicle charge points.

The 350-capacity venue, in Keyham Lane, Scraptoft, will remain respectful to the rural locality and countryside, while introducing modern elements and restoration. The inside and outside design has been completed by Leicester-based architecture firm DSA.

Sachin Parmar, associate director at Marrons Planning, said: “This is a great example of diversifying the rural economy, and will bring new life to a derelict and dilapidated farm complex. Landscape-led, the application for transformation will give priority to greenery around the building including the creation of wildflower meadows and orchards.

TO PAGE 4

David Wilson Homes Senior Site Manager, Henry Patecki

William Davis Homes is championing local talent with award-winning apprenticeship scheme

TWELVE NEW TRAINEES have joined William Davis Homes’ award-winning apprenticeship scheme which is helping to counter skills shortages in the construction industry.

The latest recruits include joiners, scaffolders, bricklayers, electricians and plumbers – bringing the total number of apprentices at the Leicestershirebased firm to 40. Over the years the company’s long-standing scheme has helped hundreds of entrants to launch their careers in housebuilding, creating precious opportunities for young people.

According to the Construction Industry Training Board, there has been a sharp drop in the number of college leavers entering the sector. However, the story is different for William Davis Homes who have had a record number of applications for their scheme this year.

Gary Long, William Davis Homes apprenticeship manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming twelve new trainees onto our apprenticeship scheme. Apprenticeships are vital to our business as we strive to develop home-grown talent from the local area, which enables us to support our workforce as we continue building quality homes across the Midlands.

“Despite a skills shortage in the industry, we had a record 280 applicants this year which is very encouraging and further cements our reputation as a local employer of choice. Getting onto the scheme is a real achievement.

“We are looking forward to supporting this new intake and watching their skills and careers develop over the next few years. These apprentices are, without a doubt, the future of our company.”

William Davis Homes’ apprenticeship scheme has received a National Housebuilder Award, a Leicester Mercury Award, CITB Apprenticeship Awards and East Midlands Business Insider Awards. It also won the Skills and Apprenticeship Scheme Award at this year’s East Midlands Property Dinner. The traditional training scheme gives the opportunity to ‘earn and learn’ whilst gaining a professional qualification and creating a life-long career. It was established in the 1960s and a large proportion of the current workforce started as William Davis Homes apprentices.

Henry Patecki - from page 1

He said: “There have been so many great memories during my career but my most proud moments have been winning the NHBC Supreme award in 2018 for our Forest Chase development in Leicester Forest East, as well as my Lifetime Achievement award last year.

“My advice to any budding site managers starting out in their career would be to always be focussed and passionate about your site, and care about your workforce. Always work towards maintaining the high standards of David Wilson Homes, and ensure that you learn from your mistakes.”

Among the developments Henry has worked on, his two favourites were Forest Chase and Ivy Farm, a site in Coventry, which he called was a challenging one-off development in a high conservation area.

He continued: “I would like to thank John Reddington (Managing Director), Darren Langton (Construction Director), Ian Bentley (Contracts Manager) and Ivan Towson (Contracts Manager) for their help and support during my career.

“I would also like to give thanks to everyone who helped me in the early part of my career, namely Jason Glover and Richard Wozniakiewicz for all of their guidance and support.

“A special mention goes out to all of my colleagues onsite, especially my assistants, all of whom have very bright futures ahead of them. There’s also an incredibly talented team of tradespeople that I have had the privilege of working with for many years.”

Whilst working part-time ahead of his retirement, Henry is now looking forward to his weekends away and holidays abroad. He enjoys keeping fit, and now hopes to continue with his hobbies of fishing, gardening, weight training and practising his music.

John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “We’re going to miss Henry’s character within the company, in addition to the professionalism and high standards he brought to the job. It’s great that we’re able to offer him a part-time role to provide a comfortably transition into his retirement.

“He’s been exemplary for our site teams over the years, and the honours he’s received throughout his career have been a testament to his hard work and commitment to the industry.”

Back Row, Apprentices Standing – Jacob Smith, Eyal Butcher, Danny Chaplin, Oliver Mudge, Joe Moore, Gavin Moore, Addison Clements, Kyle Bush; Middle Row – Hugh Brennan (Health and Safety Manager), Abbie Beeres (HR Assistant), Gary Long (Apprentice and Electrical Manager); Front Row, Apprentices sitting – Ben Crumbie, Ferdie Smith, Malakai Shepherd-Aldridge, Riley McManus

This month sees changes to VAT filing system

FROM THE BEGINNING of November, VAT-registered companies will no longer be able to use their existing VAT online account to submit VAT returns.

That’s the date that, by law, all VAT-registered businesses must sign up to Making Tax Digital and use compatible software to keep VAT records and file returns.

MTD’s aim is to help businesses get their tax right first time by reducing errors, making it easier for them to manage their tax affairs by going digital, and consequently helping them to grow.

More than 1.8 million businesses are already using the service, and more than 19 million returns have so far been submitted through MTD-compatible software.

From this month, businesses who file their VAT returns on a quarterly and monthly basis will no longer be able to submit them using their existing VAT online account, unless HMRC has agreed they are exempt from MTD

If businesses do not file their VAT returns through MTD-compatible software, they may have to pay a penalty. Even if a business currently keeps digital records, they must check their software is MTD compatible and sign up for MTD before filing their next return.

Richard Fuller MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said: “Making Tax Digital can help businesses get their tax right first time, which cuts the administration burden and frees up time for them to get on with what matters most to them – growing their business. I encourage any VAT-registered businesses still to register for Making Tax Digital to get online and sign up.”

New estate set to be built on site of former bus depot in Leicester

AS REPORTED IN THE LEICESTER MERCURY, bid to build 117 new homes on the site of a former bus depot in Abbey Park Road has been submitted to Leicester City Council. The old Abbey Park Road Bus and Tram Depot was left devastated by a fire in 1999.

The site was finally closed for good in 2007 and demolished three years later. It has been vacant since, despite planning permission being granted in 2005 for eight blocks of 727 flats and a more recent outline planning application for 96 homes being approved in 2020.

Developer Venture Properties Group plans to create a new estate on the land opposite Abbey Park, which would also include the former Advanced Tapes manufacturing site. All of the 117 new homes will be ‘affordable’, with a mix of houses and flats. There will be 29 two-bed, 70 three-bed and four fourbed houses, as well as two two-bed flats and 12 one-bed flats.

The proposal has been approved by the city’s planning officers, who say it fits in with the aims and aspiration for the area, which the council has earmarked for regeneration. The main access to the site would be via an extension of the existing Wolsley Island Way road.

The applicant has also agreed to make a section 106 contribution of around £202,000 with the council which will be used for improvements to Abbey Park. A Section 106 agreement is a legally-binding contract that ties developers in to making financial contributions to ensure local services and infrastructure can cope with a higher population as a result of new developments.

A second phase has been floated as a possibility, adjoining the current area to the south east. This could add a further 150 homes to the estate if planning permission is granted.

• A NUMBER OF OTHER developments have been given the go ahead in the area, including the newly completed Sock Island development to the north of the site, consisting of 93 houses and 95 apartments on the former headquarters of the clothing company Wolsey.

Scraptoft

“Over the years, the site has unfortunately suffered from acts of fly-tipping and criminal activity, and the buildings have fallen into a state of disrepair. Together, Mehul and DSA have done a fantastic job at creating a scheme that will repair the historic farmhouse and its architectural features, which will be complemented by new-build elements to create a high-quality facility – creating a memorable experience for people to enjoy the surrounding countryside and rural backdrop.

“This was a fairly complex planning application due to the historic nature of the site. We’re so pleased to help unlock a new leisure use in the countryside, which will save a historic farm complex and support the rural economy.”

Mehul Somani, managing director at OBP Group, said: “We are looking forward to creating a beautiful, modern and functional site, which will remain true to the site surroundings and offer a memorable experience to guests on their wedding day. It is hoped the venue will host up to 67 events – mostly weddings and civil ceremonies, and, occasionally, birthday parties and anniversaries – throughout each year.”

Keshiv Sudera, managing director at DSA, added: “This rural site – which has remained vacant and derelict for many years – will benefit from the new lease of life it will receive from the approval of an existing new scheme in the Leicestershire countryside.

“The development has been sensitively-approached, utilising the original structures and forms while adding additional spaces to enhance the scheme further – creating a real sense of place. The dilapidated structure will go through a significant transformation to create an amazing venue for Leicestershire and the East Midlands.”

The venue is due for completion in 2023.

Wilkinson

01530 244069

Leicester City

Mr Mandeep Poonian (c/o Agent: Mrs Varsha Tailor, DT Designs Ltd, 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.

Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Alan Filby, A+G Architects Ltd, 11 Leicester Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 2AE) Demolition of existing garage and construction of two storey side extension and single storey rear extension and change of use from dwelling houses to Children’s Home – at 59-61 Lutterworth Road, Leicester LE2 8PH.

Denovo Investment Group Ltd (c/o Agent: Muhammad Imtiaz, Architecture365 Ltd, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester LE5 1NA) – Change of use from commercial, business and service use to 10 self-contained flats – at 61-63 Bardolph Street, Leicester LE4 6EH.

Maxi Grosik (c/o Agent: Mr Khaleel Tayub, Solvers Estates Architectural Services, 108 Belgrave Gate, Leicester LE1 3GR) – Removal of existing storage to create 4 separate commercial units with different entrances – at 38 Blackbird Road, Leicester LE4 0FW.

Akson Properties Limited (c/o Agent: John Hackman, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE)

– Proposed change of use from D1 to 5 self-contained apartments – at 6 Salisbury Road, Leicester LE1 7QR.

Mr Anil Tailor (c/o Agent:Mrs Varsha Tailor, DT Designs Ltd, 74a Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH)

– Proposed change of use from dwelling into 3 flats, single storey front and side extension, plus two storey side and rear extension – at 8 Turnbury Way, Leicester LE5 5DY.

Mr Raj Goyal (c/o Agent: Dennis Dziko, Volta Designs, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ) – Proposed roof top extension – at 25 St Nicholas Place, Leicester LE1 4LD.

Jarroms Limited (c/o Agent: Mr Share, Kent Porter Warren Limited, 170 Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QA) – Change of use from a retail unit with ancillary upper floor accommodation to ground floor retail unit with 2 self-contained residential apartments – at 7-9 King Street, Leicester LE1 6RN.

Rutland housebuilder donates an estimated £80,000 worth of furniture to the British Heart Foundation

ALLISON HOMES has donated approximately £80,000 worth of furniture to The British Heart Foundation (BHF), which will be sold in charity shops across Rutland to raise money for the organisation.

Workshop expansion for Porsche dealership

Pictured Left to right: Naomi Tickle, Rob Crossland, Ryan from The British Heart Foundation, John Anderson, Group Chief Executive at Allison Homes. Back row: Phillip Dance and Chris Machin

The furniture was previously used to decorate the show homes at various Allison Homes developments, which means that the donation also serves the dual purpose of reusing the furniture in a sustainable way.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

NORTH LEICESTER Trade Park at Hamilton is expanding with a pre-let deal to build and rent high quality workshop and service premises to Sytner Group Ltd.

Leading Leicestershire commercial property specialist Andrew + Ashwell, which is overseeing the trade park development, has negotiated the deal with Sytner to extend further services alongside the group’s Porsche showroom next door.

Close proximity to Leicester’s inner and outer ring roads, with fast access both to the city centre and major road and motorway links, has put North Leicester Trade Park in demand for growing businesses looking for high quality premises, which are currently in short supply.

Jon Archer, A+A Director explained: “We previously obtained planning permission for an Aldi food store on the site pre-lockdown, more than three years ago. This store is now well established and popular locally. However, difficulties with the slope of the land involved the time-consuming construction of a large retaining wall in order to release further viable development.”

Since then A+A has agreed terms for several further occupants of the site, including a drive-through on the higher level, which it is hoped will go ahead in the coming months. Planning is also underway on a variety of further schemes available for rent for industrial, warehousing and trade development use, which it is hoped will get underway early next year

Sytner Group Ltd is a prestige car dealership specialising in premium franchises, including Audi, Porsche and BMW, based in Leicester for over 50 years.

Steve Dickinson, Centre Principal, said work was currently underway to complete the building and site, with launch set for late 2023.

“The new workshop and service premises will support and boost current capacity, as well as enhancing customer experience.

“This increased capacity will help reduce customer lead times in servicing and allow us to process more vehicles. The addition of extra outdoor space will in turn create more customer parking and ease congestion on site.

“We will also be looking to recruit new staff as business continues to grow and are greatly looking forward to the launch.”

With expansion of the trade park also in the pipeline, Jon Archer added:

“New-build industrial and commercial premises have been in short supply for years and whenever a new scheme comes out of the ground there is always high demand. The market is particularly strong at the moment, with no sign of a slowdown because there is always that pent-up need.”

ALEXANDERS

Planning has been granted for

The

Price is £650,000.

on 01530

email:

Hollycroft

Ms Deborah Hunt (c/o Agent: Anthony Jones, Halford Jones Architecture Ltd, 34a Park Hill Drive, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8HR) –Office at ground floor and residential for first and second floors – at 546 Aylestone Road, Leicester LE2 8JB.

Charnwood Borough

Brett Landscaping & Building Products (c/o Agent: Proposed erection of single storey office building – at Brett Landscaping & Building Products, Sileby Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leics. LE12 8LX.

IBC Healthcare (c/o Agent: ADG Architects) – Conversion of existing residential property and annexe into 4 supported living apartments with ancillary facilities – at 2 Tiffin, Homefield Lane, Rothley, Leics. LE7 7NE.

Grey Goose (c/o Agent: Mark Architecture Ltd) – Creation of 9 flats to existing flat roof area of existing building – at Canal House, Lisle Street, Loughborough, Leics., LE11 1AW.

St Philips (c/o Agent: Lichfields) – Screening Opinion request for proposed development of up to 60 dwellings – at land at Cotes Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leics.

The Prince Group (c/o Agent: Pegasus Planning Group) – Proposed erection of 21 industrial units with associated site works incorporating access, parking, delivery vehicle turning areas and landscaping –at land south of Wymeswold Industrial Unit, Wymeswold Lane, Wymeswold, Leics.

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.

Lendlease on behalf of the MoJ (c/o Agent: James Kharade, Avison Young, 3 Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2JB) – Erection of one residential houseblock, one ancillary building, associated Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), car park, landscaping and associated structures – at HMYOI Glen Parva, 10 Tigers Road, Glen Parva, Leicester LE18 4TN.

Green light for significant Rushey Mead social housing development

THE FIRST phase of a new development designed to alleviate some of the pressure on Leicester’s social housing system has been granted approval by the city’s planning department.

The Lanesborough Road scheme in Rushey Mead will feature a total of 37 dwellings designed by award-winning architecture practice CPMG Architects, with a range of two - to four-bedroom family homes and one - to two-bedroom apartments. A further 24 dwellings are planned for a second phase of the development.

With Leicester City Council experiencing a near 6,000-person waiting list for social housing, this latest development is set to regenerate a 1.4 hectare area of the city suburb with a mix of housing types in keeping with the council’s Core Strategic Policy. All dwellings are also designed for enhanced accessibility, with one bungalow featuring a design specifically tailored for residents who are wheelchair users.

The designs for the homes have been drawn up with the city’s ambitious sustainability goals in mind, featuring air source heat pumps, solar panels and a fabric first approach which help the development significantly exceed the requirements of standard building regulations by more than 80%.

Steve Milan, associate at CPMG Architects, said: “We’re delighted that this first phase of the Lanesborough Road scheme has been given planning permission. There is a real need for new social housing in the city of Leicester and its surrounding suburbs, so we’re particularly pleased to be able to not just deliver much needed homes, but also make use of land that has essentially been edgeland for several years.

“Making sure all dwellings are sustainable in design and operation, the fabric first approach optimises the thermal performance of the building envelope, making best use of natural daylighting and passive solar gain, whilst also avoiding overheating. These highly insulated and airtight homes with their low energy-use fittings will significantly reduce theenergy cost for residents.”

The homes themselves have been designed to combine robustness and maintainability with a soft and pleasing contemporary aesthetic to create a desirable appearance to the development. A materials palette comprising natural materials have been selected to reflect and enhance the green setting beside Melton Brook, along with the choice of pale brickwork and contrasting timber finishes to provide a more organic feel.

The development will also feature a significant amount of green space, with all properties having private front and rear gardens, as well as numerous public open spaces throughout the designs.

The homes are also positioned within walking distance of local retail, hospitality, open space amenities and good public transport links to the city centre, ensuring cohesion with the wider

community.

As part of the futureproofing of the project, each dwelling will be provided with an electric vehicle charging point adjacent to their driveway or apartment parking space, and all gardens will contain a timber shed to allow for secure, covered storage for bicycles.

Steve added: “We’ve enjoyed working closely with Arcadis and Leicester City Council to develop a design that will delivers attractive, energy-efficient social housing for the people of the city, and we look forward to taking the project forward to successful completion.”

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Site for 6 dwellings in Melton Mowbray

SHOULERS are offering for sale a building plot situated off Cleves Close on Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray LE13 0LZ with full planning permission granted for 6 residential dwellings.

For sale BY INFORMAL TENDER closing at 12 noon on Friday 4th November 2022.

Guide price: £900,000. Contact Shoulers on 01664 560181 or email: housesales@ shoulers.co.uk

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Blaby District

Mr Dean Rainbow (c/o Agent: Lance Wiggins, Lion Planning, 14 Woodhouse Road, Quorn, Leics. LE12 8ED) – Erection of 8 dwellings with associated vehicular access, garaging, surface water balancing and landscaping – at Hepburn, Seine Lane, Enderby, Leicester LE19 4PD.

Mr Simon Seal (c/o Agent: Steven Nightingale, 8 Willow Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4BF) – Erection of one four-bedroom detached dwelling and 2 four-bedroom semi-detached dwellings – at 64 Amy Street, Braunstone Town, Leicester LE3 2FB.

Lendlease on behalf of the MoJ (c/o Agent: Avison Young, 3 Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2JB) – Erection of one residential houseblock, one ancillary building, associated Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), car park, landscaping and associated structures – at HMYOI Glen Parva, 10 Tigers Road, Glen Parva, Leicester LE18 4TN.

Shell UK Oil Products Ltd Agent: Jackie Ford, JMS Planning & Development Ltd, Build Studios, 203 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7FR) – Demolition of the existing sales building and forecourt and the erection of a new sales building, forecourt (domestic and HGV) including underground fuel tanks, pumps and canopy, provision of car parking and EVC hub with canopy and associated works –Sutton Elms Filling Station, Coventry Road, Stoney Stanton, Leics. LE9 6QD.

North West Leics.

Paul Wheatley – Demolition of leisure centre – at Hermitage Leisure Centre, Silver Street, Whitwick, Coalville, Leics. LE67 5EU.

Aldi Stores Ltd & Harworth Group (c/o Agent: Planning Potential Ltd, Magdalen House, 148 Tooley Street, London SE1 2TU) – Erection of foodstore together with car parking, landscaping, and associated works (Reserved Matters of outline planning permission 13/00956/OUTM) – at Bardon Grange, Beveridge Lane, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2BT.

Modus Partnerships (c/o Agent: rg+p Limited, Waterloo House, 71 Princess Road West, Leicester LE1 6TR) – Erection of 22 affordable dwellings – at Workspace 17, Highfield Street, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3BQ.

The property comprises a unique rural residential development / refurbishment opportunity with planning consent for four units in addition to the existing farmhouse, having wide ranging views over the surrounding undulating countryside. Guide price: £900,000.

Contact King West on 01858 435970 or visit www.kingwest.co.uk

Green Homes Needed to Boost Economic Growth, says FMB

THE 2% FALL in repair, maintenance and improvement work in the building industry, as announced in October’s ONS figures on construction output in Great Britain, reflects reduced consumer spend as a result of the higher cost of living, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said: “The figures showing a 2% drop in repair maintenance and improvement (RMI) work highlight the real term effects of a contracting economy. This is the third consecutive monthly decline in RMI work, which is the backbone of the construction industry and is often an early indicator of what’s to come for the wider sector.

“Small local builders are under increasing pressure to keep their bottom lines in the black, as cash strapped consumers hold back on new projects ahead of a difficult winter period. The Government needs to set out the detail of their pro-growth agenda to help restore confidence in the economy.

“A win-win would be a nationwide energy efficiency plan to make our homes more energy efficient, which boosts jobs and lowers bills. A more immediate shot in the arm would be a reduction in VAT on RMI work, helping builders pass on savings to customers.”

Site for two dwellings in Glenfield

Site for 15 units FOR SALE

MOORE & YORK are offering for sale a site with planning consent for the demolition of present dwelling and the erection of two detached dwellings at Ashfield Road in Glenfield.

Offers in excess of £400,000 are invited.

Contact Moore & York on 0116 255 8666 or email: leicester@ mooreandyork.co.uk

INNES ENGLAND are offering for sale a cleared site with consent pending for 15 one and two bed apartments and a retail unit.

The site – at 64 Church Gate, Leicester LE1 3AN – is being offered at a price of £500,000.

Contact Peter Doleman at Innes England on 0116 255 5455 or email: pdoleman@innes-england.com

Barn for conversion

BROWN & CO Fox Bennett are offering for sale a barn with prior approval for conversion to a detached dwelling set in approximately 1.25 acres.

The property – at Bagworth Road, Newbold Heath, Leicestershire LE9 9NB – has a price guide of £250,000.

Contact Brown & Co Fox Bennett on 0116 281 4931 or visit www. brown-co.com

KING WEST are offering for sale New House Farm, Naseby, Northants NN6 6BU.

Mr I Wilson (c/o Agent: Mr R Reece-Evans, HM Chambers & Partners, 41A Derby Road, Heanor, Derby DE75 7QJ) – Erection of two/ three storey building to provide 6 two bedroom residential units including undercroft parking – at IC Discounts, Station Road, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics.

Mr S Dawson (c/o Agent: Paul Stone, Stone Planning Services Ltd, 9 Yardley Close, Swanwick, Derby DE55 1EP) – Erection of 17 townhouses with associated car parking, access, landscaping and car park to hotel – at The Royal Hotel, Station Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 2GP.

Rutland County

Mrs Margaret White (c/o Agent: Matt Taylor, Class Q, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PB) – Outline application for up to 27 dwellings – at land to the north of Main Street, Market Overton, Rutland.

Mr Terence Dodson (c/o Agent: John Dodson, Parkinson Dodson & Associates Ltd, The Police House, Ketton Road, North Luffenham, Rutland LE15 8JY) – Demolition of outbuilding to existing house and proposed new double garage to serve existing house; conversion of existing barn and workshop to a new dwelling with a new double garage, plus construction of 2 new dwellings with basement garaging – at 11 Main Street, Seaton, Rutland LE15 9HU.

Mr Billy Allingham (c/o Agent: Tony Ansell, Rutland Planning, 2 Harewood Close, Langham, Rutland LE15 7JZ) – Retention of 42 Northgate as dwellinghouse and erection of 2 dwellings – at 42 Northgate, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6QS.

Mr Mark Nichols (c/o Agent: Mr Shayne Andrews, S Andrews Design & Architecture Ltd, 75 Truesdale Gardens, Langtoft, Peterborough PE6 9QQ) – Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of 2 new dwellings with integral garaging and widened access – at Newlands, 56 Burley Road, Langham, Rutland LE15 7HY.

Mr Adam Wells (c/o Agent: Richard Cooper, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Business Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Change of use from agricultural to business to facilitate relocation of Willowbrook Education Ltd; conversion of existing buildings, adaption and new build elements including new yard, parking areas and access improvements – at Pheasants Roost, Lyndon Road, Manton, Rutland LE15 8RN.

David Wilson Homes’ £30k contribution welcomed by local communities

LEADING DEVELOPER David Wilson Homes East Midlands has contributed more than £30,000 to charities and organisations across Leicestershire and the wider Midlands between July 2021 and July 2022.

The developer – which is based in Coalville and is building new homes in Leicestershire – has supplied a total of £31,960 as part of its work to support organisations close to its developments, and as part of the Barratt Developments Plc Charitable Foundation (Community Fund), which is designed to support both national and local charities on a monthly basis.

Throughout the financial year, David Wilson Homes donated funds to a total of 43 charities and organisations across the Midlands, including 20 Leicestershire charities such as Lubbesthorpe Alive and Norton Housing and Support.

John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to support numerous deserving charities and organisations as part of our community support and Community Fund scheme over the past year.

“As the country’s largest housebuilder, we are committed to creating a positive legacy. We want to lead the industry not just in the quality of the homes and developments we build, but also in our work with charities and good causes throughout the UK.”

SDL AUCTIONS 2022

SDL National Property Auction

Thursday 24th November 10.00am

SDL National Property Auction Tuesday 20th December 10.00am

Visit www.sdlauctions.co.uk

BOND WOLFE AUCTIONS 2022/23

Thursday 8th December 2022

Starting at 12:00 noon

Wednesday 14th December 2022 9:00AM

Thursday 9th February 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 30th March 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 18th May 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 13th July 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 14th September 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 26th October 2023 9:00AM

Thursday 14th December 2023 9:00AM

Visit www.bondwolfe.com

SHONKI BROS AUCTIONS 2022

Wednesday 9th Nov 2022: 5pm

Visit www.shonkibros.com

KAL SANGRA SHONKI BROTHERS AUCTIONS 2022/23

16th November 2022

15th February 2023

26th April 2023

Visit www.shonkibrothers.com

COTTONS AUCTIONS 2022

14th December 2022

Visit www.cottons.co.uk

John Reddington, Managing Director of David Wilson Homes East Midlands

Flintstone Estates LLP (c/o Agent: Matt Taylor, Class Q, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PB) - Construction of a single building containing 19 buildings and 737 square metres of flexible Class E use, access onto Panniers Way and parking – at Site E7c, Hackamore Way, Barleythorpe, Rutland.

Mr Chris Riddle (c/o Agent: DLP Planning Ltd, 4 Abbey Court, Fraser Road, Priory Business Park, Bedford MK44 3WH) – Erection of a dedicated yoga building and two tennis courts – at Woolfox Golf & Country Club, Harwick Farm Lane, Empingham, Rutland PE9 4NJ.

Mr & Mrs Semple (c/o Agent: John Hartley, JJ & J Hartley, 109 Fulbridge Road, Peterborough, Cambridge PE1 3LE) – Two new bungalows – at land to the rear of 37 Cold Overton Road, Oakham, Rutland.

Hinckley & Bosworth

Mr David Jackson & Mr Roger Jackson (c/o Agent: Thomas Beardsmore, Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derby DE74 2SL) – Prior approval for the conversion of an existing agricultural building to provide 5 residential dwellings – at Manor Farm, 2 Carlton Road, Barton in the Beans, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0DE.

Mr Gurbinder Samra (c/o Agent: Bernard Taruvinga, Kunstler Designs Architect, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RE) – Erection of 2 detached three-bedroom dwellinghouses – at 46C Mill Lane, Newbold Verdon, Leics. LE9 9PT.

ST Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Ltd, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) – Internal alterations relating to the provision of 6 apartments on the first floor –at 8A Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW.

Daniel Swift (c/o Agent: Bailey Design Limited, 43A Mitchells Court, Lower Gungate, Tamworth B79 7AS) – Conversion, extension and alteration of former kennels and stables to form 7 dwellings, erection of replacement dwelling, erection of garages and formation of new vehicular access – at Atherstone Hunt Kennels, Kennel Lane, Witherley, Atherstone, Warks. CV9 3LJ.

Construction output returns to growth in September, but business expectations hit 26-month low

• Total industry activity rises for first time in three months

• Output growth linked to work on delayed projects

• Business optimism lowest since July 2020 as new orders stall

UK CONSTRUCTION companies signalled a modest increase in business activity during September, which represented a return to growth after two months of falling output. However, subdued demand persisted, as signalled by the weakest trend for new orders since the recovery began in June 2020.

Looking ahead to the next 12 months, survey respondents remain cautious about their growth prospects. The degree of confidence towards the business outlook dropped to its lowest for over two years in September, mostly reflecting concerns about higher interest rates and a downturn in the wider UK economy. On a more positive note, supply shortages eased in September, with delivery delays the least widespread since February 2020.

At 52.3 in September, up from 49.2 in August, the headline seasonally adjusted S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index® (PMI®) – which measures month-on-month changes in total industry activity – registered above the 50.0 no-change value for the first time since June. The latest reading was the highest for three months and signalled a modest overall increase in construction output. Survey respondents commented on a boost to activity from work on previously delayed projects.

House building was the best-performing category in September (index at 52.9), with growth reaching a five-month high. Commercial work increased only marginally (51.0), while civil engineering activity (49.6) fell for the third month in a row.

Survey respondents often commented on a strong pipeline of outstanding work, but incoming new orders remained relative scarce in September Latest data signalled that new business volumes were broadly unchanged overall, which represented the worst month for new orders for almost twoand-a-half years. Construction firms cited slow decisionmaking among clients and greater risk aversion due to inflation concerns, squeezed budgets and worries about the economic outlook.

Subdued client demand contributed to a marginal reduction in purchasing activity across the construction sector. Survey respondents also suggested that a turnaround in supplier performance had led to reduced inventory building. Latest data signalled the least marked lengthening of vendor lead times since the pandemic began.

Employment growth meanwhile accelerated from August’s 17-month low. Around 21% of the survey panel reported a rise in staffing levels, while only 8% signalled a decline. Higher workforce numbers reflected efforts to boost business capacity, although construction firms continued to cite shortages of candidates to fill vacancies and strong wage pressures.

Average cost burdens increased sharply in September, but the overall rate of inflation eased to its lowest since February 2021. Survey respondents noted escalating energy costs and greater prices paid across the board for construction products and materials. Lower fuel prices and improved transportation availability were cited as factors helping to moderate the overall pace of cost inflation in September.

Finally, business optimism for the coming 12 months was relatively subdued in September. The latest survey pointed to the weakest growth projections since July 2020. While construction firms often commented on expected growth due to forthcoming new projects, many also suggested that recession risks and higher interest rates had weighed on confidence.

Comment

TIM MOORE, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, which compiles the survey said: “UK construction companies experienced a modest increase in business activity during September, but the return to growth was fuelled by delayed projects and easing supply shortages rather than a flurry of new orders. Reports of delivery delays for construction products and materials were the least widespread since the pandemic began as greater business capacity and improved transport availability helped to ease pressure on supply chains.

“However, forward-looking survey indicators took another turn for the worse in September, with new business volumes stalling and output growth expectations for the year ahead now the lowest since July 2020. This reflected deepening concerns across the construction sector that rising interest rates, the energy crisis and UK recession risks are all set to dampen client demand in the coming months.”

DR JOHN GLEN, Chief Economist at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, said: “Developments in the UK economy have given the sector food for thought as supply chain managers reported softer levels of buying last month and the new orders index slipped to its lowest since May 2020. Though the headline index showed growth after two months in contraction, the devil lies in the detail pointing to lower customer confidence, a challenging UK economy and recession on the doorstep.

“Firstly, the rise in output has no sign of sustainable growth behind it as without new pipelines of work any gains will soon leak away. This was not lost on builders themselves who reported the lowest level of optimism since July 2020 about business opportunities in the next year.

“Secondly, the costs of doing business and the cost of living are still high and rising. More expensive energy and salary pressures to secure skilled staff have contributed to additional inflation, though 21% of building companies in the sector were still hiring to maintain capacity for current projects.

“The housing sector remained the strongest performer in September although with interest rates rising and mortgage costs affecting affordability rates especially for first-time buyers, this will be an obstacle for house building to keep up the momentum as we approach 2023.”

MuckStopper launches to stop debris on construction sites from polluting the UK’s drainage system

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Social Club with potential

DRAINAGE

SPECIALIST

Drainfast is delighted to announce the launch of the MuckStopper - an innovative new product range engineered to stop mud and building site debris from entering manholes on construction sites and polluting underground drainage systems.

Designed to prevent costly waste extraction from manholes at the end of building projects, the MuckStopper also stops building materials from polluting the UK drainage system – a costly issue for water companies and a potential environmental hazard. Waste that enters drains from construction sites joins the main sewage network, where it is screened and treated by water companies before being returned to rivers. However, during heavy rainfall wastewater that hasn’t yet been treated regularly ‘overspills’ into rivers and lakes.

Following years of testing on construction sites, the new MuckStopper product range was recently revealed to the public for the first time at Hillhead 2022 - the UK’s largest quarrying exhibition show based in Buxton, Derbyshire.

The new MuckStopper product range includes:

MuckStopper 450

THE MUCKSTOPPER 450 is an easy-to-fit, preconstructed product that is designed to capture building materials that fall into a UK standard 450mm drainage inspection chamber.

The innovative new product arrives as a complete system and can be installed at the same time as the underground drainage system itself. The MuckStopper 450 also arrives with an extendable pole to retrieve debris that is captured by the product in the

deeper chamber shafts and is easily removed at the end of a building project.

MuckStopper 600

SIMILARLY, the new MuckStopper 600 solves the same problem, but for larger manholes with 600mm access.

Acting as a secondary manhole cover, the MuckStopper 600 is installed between two courses of brickwork. It works by forming a completely watertight seal to the opening of larger manholes. Its robust, watertight, removable lid allows chamber access while still preventing mud, silt, dirt, and other debris from entering the drainage system.

Both the MuckStopper 450 and the MuckStopper 600 can be removed and reused at the end of a building project. Made of quality, durable materials, they are designed to be used multiple times and to last for several years. Both products have undergone rigorous testing on several construction sites in the UK to ensure that they operate effectively in all applications and weather conditions.

Peter James, Managing Director of MuckStopper commented: “Our philosophy is all about innovating to solve the problems that groundworks professionals face every day. Following the success of the SiteStak System, we’ve spent years working with grounds workers to identify solutions to some of the biggest challenges they face. One such challenge is the extent to which mud, silt, rubble and even litter enters, and subsequently blocks, drainage systems. The feedback we get from grounds workers about this issue is that it is increasingly widespread. Removing waste lodged in drainage systems can also be costly and these materials can pollute the UK drainage system too.”

Data analysis by the Daily Telegraph¹ suggests that untreated sewage gets released into rivers

more than 1,000 times a day –meaning that at least some of the building materials that enter the drainage system are likely polluting the environment.

According to Drainfast’s new poll of 363 construction professionals, 98% of building trade professionals are concerned about the environmental impact of waste entering manholes from building sites. 74% believed the environmental impact of this issue was likely to be ‘very negative’, while 24% felt that the problem is ‘slightly negative’. 96% had also heard of, seen or experienced waste entering manholes from on building sites.

For more on the MuckStopper visit https:// www.sitestak.co.uk/ muckstopper or contact Drainfast on 01730 774000 or action@drainfast.co.uk

LOVEITTS are offering for sale the Bentley Sports & Social Club at 23 Bentley Road, Nuneaton, Warks. CV11 5LR.

The property comprises a substantial two-storey former Sports & Social club with a flat.

Floor area: 4,366 sq.feet.

Offers based on £195,000 are invited.

Call Loveitts on 024 7622 8111 or email: commercial@loveitts.co.uk

There is a new trend in our office; everyone is putting names on their food. I saw it today, while I was eating a sandwich named Kevin.

My bed wasn’t feeling well this morning, so I had to stay home to take care of it.

Oblix Living acquires HMRC building

BUILD TO RENT specialist Oblix Living has purchased the former HMRC tax offices from Mapeley in its first venture in the city.

The 89,000 sq.ft. vacant building is set to be transformed into new homes with planning approval for 100 one and two bed apartments granted in August 2021.

The Saxon House building on Causeway Lane sits opposite the High Cross shopping centre in the heart of Leicester.

Founded in 2020, Oblix Living is already on site in Sheffield with 95 apartments under construction at Iron Yard and is actively targeting other towns and cities across the UK. Taking a service-led approach, Oblix Living is creating homes for professionals seeking flexibility, security and amenities fit for modern day living.

Church Gresley plot

CADLEY CAUDWELL are offering for sale a building plot of 304 sq.metres with Outline Planning Permission for a two storey dwelling.

The site – at Gresley Wood Road, Church Gresley, Derby DE11 9QP – is being offered at a price of £90,000.

Contact Cadley Caudwell on 01283 217251.

MuckStopper 450 for Inspection Chambers

MuckStopper 600 for Sewer Manholes

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.

SLIDING DOORS & FURNITURE Light Grey Chicago Concrete & Satin Blue Vintage Glass

Our business is helping you build yours

Site Manager Award for Jonathan Lindsey

ERI MTP Limited (c/o Agent: Daniel Melling, 7 Soho Square, London W1D 3QB) – Outline planning application for extension of MIRA Technology Park to comprise employment use, associated office and service uses, storage, new spine road, car parking, landscaping and enabling works – at land adjacent to MIRA Technology Park, Caldecote, Warwickshire CV10 0TS.

Harborough District

Lutterworth High School (c/o Agent: Joshua Maddison, GSS Architecture, Suite 1/B, Pillar & Lucy House, Merchants Road, Gloucester GL2 5RG) – Erection of a teaching block – at Lutterworth High School, Woodway Road, Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 4QH.

Davidsons Developments Ltd (c/o: Mr Spenser Taffs, Wilson House, Leicester Road, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6HP) – Erection of 150 dwellings (Reserved Matters) – at land off Arnesby Road, Fleckney, Leics.

Davidsons Developments Ltd (c/o: Mr Spenser Taffs, Wilson House, Leicester Road, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6HP) – Erection of 5 dwellings – at land off Arnesby Road, Fleckney, Leics.

Amey Homes (c/o Agent: John Hackman, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) –Erection of 2 dwellings (Variation of approved plans) – at Chapel Cottage, Chapel Lane, Walton, Leics. LE17 5RL.

Mr N Martin (c/o Agent: Mark Shrive, MWS Design, 48A Northampton Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 9HE) –Conversion of existing dwelling to 3 serviced apartments, installation of a Juliet balcony plus two new windows to east elevation – at 104 St Marys Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7DX.

Davidsons Developments Ltd (c/o: Charlie Stringer, 207 Wilson House, Leicester Road, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6HP) – Erection of 315 dwellings and associated garages and parking (Reserved Matters) – at land to the west of Leicester Road, Market Harborough, Leics.

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.

A SITE MANAGER in Leicester has been presented with a reputable award for their work on a development of high quality properties in Lubbesthorpe.

David Wilson Homes’ Site Manager of the Quarter award was recently presented to Jonathan Lindsey (38), who manages the construction progression of new homes at New Lubbesthorpe, off Tweed Street.

Jonathan, who lives in Coalville and works for the Coalville-based developer, said: “I am over the moon for winning the award.

“Over the past few months, there has been a huge team effort to handover a large quantity of private and affordable homes, whilst ensuring that all our homes are built to a very high standard of finish.

“We have had multiple customers who have commented on the high quality of their new homes, and subcontractors who have commented on how fast and well organised the build progress has been. I believe that there is a very positive work ethic onsite that also helps to promote quality.”

Jonathan has accumulated five years of managerial experience while working for the housebuilder,

overseeing various developments throughout the period.

He added: “The most enjoyable area of my work is when the properties are in their very final stages ready for handover to my customers. There is no better feeling than handing over a new home that my customers fall in love with.

“I would like to thank my Deputy Site Manager, Dwane, who has also worked extremely hard over the past few months to make the development special.”

Four and a half years have passed since David Wilson Homes first unveiled its properties in the community, with the wider development planned to deliver more than 4,500 homes upon completion.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Former church suitable for

Former Church

GIA: 992 sq ft (92.12 sqm)

Previously utilised as a place of worship

Formerly used as a place of worship, the 150 year old chapel has a floor area of 992 sq.feet.

Located within an affluent village setting

New Lubbesthorpe is set within 75 acres of woodland and 250 acres of open space and, with a selection of two, three and four bedroom properties currently available, the development provides a relaxing retreat for prospective purchasers.

Suitable for alternative use (subject to requisite consents)

viewings

“Solid” third quarter for Travis Perkins

TRAVIS PERKINS has hailed a “solid performance” during its third quarter, with its Merchanting businesses outperforming their markets and an improved performance in Toolstation.

According to a Q3 2022 trading update for the three months to 30 September 2022, the Northampton-based group delivered “resilient” trading with total sales growth of 10.7% and like-for-like sales growth of 7.4%.

The property is suitable for alternative uses, subject to planning.

Whiting

Best and final offers, based around a figure of £275,000, are invited by 12 noon on Friday 9th December 2022. Contact Ross Whiting at Innes England on 07921 948501 or email: rwhiting@innesengland.com

contact:

innes-england.com

David Wilson Homes Regional Managing Director, John Reddington (left) and Site Manager Jonathan Lindsey

INNES ENGLAND are offering for sale Thurgaton Methodist Church, Bleasby Road, Thurgaton, Nottingham NG14 7FW.

Thurgarton Methodist Church, Bleasby Road, Thurgarton, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG14 7FW

Rushcliffe Borough

Mr E Andrew (c/o Agent: Mrs Kay Carpenter, KC Planning & Development, Grove House, Church Street, Whatton in the Vale, Notts. NG13 9EL) – Demolition of buildings and erection of 4 agricultural buildings and associated hardstanding – at Newlands Farm, Langar Lane, Langar, Notts. NG13 9HA.

Cannell (c/o: Glenfield House, Landmere Lane, Ruddington, Notts. NG11 6ND) – Demolition of existing dwelling at Spinney View and construction of 2 new replacement dwellings – at Spinney View, Landmere Lane, Ruddington, Notts. NG11 6ND.

Venari Land Limited (c/o Agent: Jason Lowes, Rapleys LLP, 66 St James Street, London SW1A 1NE) – Erection of Roadside Service Area including a single storey building, four-island petrol filling station forecourt and canopy, electric vehicle charging bays, HGV fuelling facilities, canopy and parking, a drive-thru/coffee unit and associated development and new access from the A606 – at land at junction of A606 Widmerpool and Fosse Way, Hickling Pastures, Notts.

Lucy Roylance (c/o Agent: Nick Stanford, The Cottage, School Lane, Colston Bassett, Notts. NG12 3FD) – Outline planning application for erection of 2 new dwellings –at land at 8 Stockwell Lane, Cropwell Bishop, Notts. NG12 3BX.

Mr E Paul (c/o Agent: Warren Goodhall, MBDP Architecture Ltd, 39 Recreation Street, Long Eaton NG10 2DW) – Erection of 8 holiday home units with associated landscaping and access works – at The Vale of Belvoir Hotel, Grantham Road, Whatton, Notts. NG13 9EU.

Erewash Borough

Mr & Mrs James & Stephanie Duffin (c/o Agent: Mrs Susan Gaughan, Gaughan Design Limited, Unit E, Langham Park Industrial Estate, Lows Lane, Stanton by Dale, Ilkeston DE7 4RJ) – Erection of 6 glamping cabins, with car park, access track and bin store – at 7 Lewcote Lane, West Hallam, Derbyshire DE7 6HX.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Former farm house with consent for subdivision

Only 15% of staff in office full time City Council to ditch four city centre offices due to home working

AS REPORTED IN THE LEICESTER MERCURY, Leicester City Council is to move out of four of its offices as more staff embrace the flexibility of working from home.

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way many people work, including Leicester City Council employees, according to a report by the authority.

Prior to the lockdowns, no more than around five per cent of staff would be working from home at any one time, the report states. However, now, only around 15 per cent go into the authority’s offices full-time - meaning around 85 per cent work largely from home.

SDL AUCTIONS are offering for sale BY AUCTION, a former farm house with consent for conversion to two houses at 7 King Street, Sileby, Leics. LE12 7LZ.

For sale by auction on Thursday 24th November 2022 – 10am start.

Guide Price: £200,000+ plus fees.

Contact SDL Auctions on 0800 046 5454 or email: enquiries@ sdlauctions.co.uk

My dear old grandmother always used to say the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach, which is why she lost her job as a cardiac surgeon.

A camel can work 10 days without drinking, I can drink 10 days without working.

As a result, Leicester’s city mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, has decide to permanently vacate four of the authority’s city centre offices which he says are now ‘surplus to requirements’. They are: Phoenix House, in King Street; Sovereign House and neighbouring Bosworth House, in Princess Road West; and 10 York Road.

The council has been renting Bosworth House, with the lease set to expire in May next year. It has said it would not be renewing this agreement.

However, some £400,000 will need to be spent on work to the property before it is handed back. This will be paid for out of the council’s capital budget.

The council owns the other three sites and all are empty, the report states. They will be either sold or rented out to new tenants as part of the council’s ‘commercial property portfolio’.

Phoenix House and Sovereign House have the potential to bring in around £180,000 a year, it says. Meanwhile, the York Road property could generate around £110,000 a year, minus running costs.

The council estimates savings of £744,000 in the 2023/24 financial year and then £789,000 a year from not maintaining the buildings as offices. The report goes on to say only around 15 per cent of the authority’s staff are in the office more than 80 per cent of their working time. Slightly more - 16 per cent - are present up to 50 per cent of the time.

Far more, however, work from home or away from the office. Some 38 per cent of staff spend up to 80 per cent of their working time out of the office, and 32 per cent are never in.

Bricklaying Masterclasses Improve New Builds

BRICKWORK masterclasses are having a positive impact on the quality of new home builds as the sector faces increased pressures.

An independent evaluation from researchers at Harlow Consulting shows the concept of Brickwork Masterclasses, which are delivered on sites across the country, has resulted in positive change.

The masterclass in bricklaying aims to decrease the level of warranty claims on new builds, improve the confidence of the existing workforce, as well as the reputation of the industry.

The scheme which was launched by The Home Building Skills Partnership initiative and developed with National House Building Council (NHBC) and the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC), is funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

The report also highlights the current level of skilled bricklayers in the UK is almost a quarter of the size needed to meet government targets for building new homes.

With the pressure to deliver high quality homes to tight timelines, remedial brickwork can be costly. The masterclasses help those working onsite improve skills in areas such as cavity

wall construction, sound insulation and more.

The housebuilding industry is a major employer in the UK, with an estimated 800,000 people directly or indirectly supported by the planning, design and delivery of new homes. According to Nomis annual population data, there are around 60,900 bricklayers working in the UK.

The 2018 Letwin review estimated a need for 15,000 more trained bricklayers by 2023.

The classes will be available throughout 2023, to make a booking go to the NHBC training website www.nhbc. co.uk

Erewash Borough Council (c/o Agent: Felix Woodhouse, Baily Garner, 55 Charlotte Street, Birmingham B3 1PX) – Change of use from vehicular workshop and former stables to a business centre of 14 studio units, plus demolition of the workshop and non-original additions to the building – at Town Hall, Derby Road, Long Eaton NG10 1HU.

Crossover Consulting & PM Limited (c/o Agent: David Peck, Planning and Design Group (UK) Limited, Pure Offices, Icon Business Centre, Lake View Drive, Sherwood Park, Nottingham NG15 0DT) –Change of use of bar and club to 6 residential apartments including external alterations – at The Factory, Clifford Street, Long Eaton, Derbyshire NG10 1ED.

South Derbyshire

Ms Annabel Humphreys (c/o Agent: Philip Tuckwell, TUK Architecture, The Studio, 6A Market Place, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8DS) – Demolition of existing workshop/ garage, the erection of 2 dwellings together with the subdivision of the existing property from one dwelling to 2 dwellings – at 79 South Street, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8GB.

Cameron Homes Limited (c/o Agent: Mrs Charlotte El Hakiem, CT Planning, Three Spires House, Station Road, Lichfield WS13 6HX) – Erection of 8 dwellings, two detached garages and associated works – at The Paddock (Cadley Park), land south of Copperas Road, Newhall, Swadlincote, Derby.

North Northants.

Country Court Care Homes (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 The Exeter Arms, Stamford Road, Easton on the Hill, 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 76 St Peters Road, Oundle, Northants.

Leicestershire Homebuilder Lays The Foundations For Mental Health Discussions In The Workplace

FOR WORLD MENTAL HEALTH Day in October, David Wilson Homes East Midlands encouraged open discussions about mental health in the workplace.

Three employees for the housebuilder have undergone training in mental health first aid, and are now the first port of call for colleagues who are experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing.

One of the Mental Health First Aiders based at the developer’s head office in Coalville, Tina White, is sharing her experiences to help spread awareness of the importance of mental health.

Tina, 42, who works as an Assistant Accountant, said: “Employees were asked to come forward if they wished to become a Mental Health First Aider, and after some thought I put myself forward.

“I found the training process very easy and informative, the training consisted of four sessions spread over two weeks with some additional studying online between training sessions.

“There was a mixture of listening to the instructor, watching online videos and reading involved including some mini workshops where we would practice how we would approach various situations.”

Tina’s training not only enabled her to learn how to promote positive mental health among colleagues, but also learn things about mental health that she wasn’t previously aware of.

She continued: “It’s not always obvious that someone is struggling with their mental health and many people will mask how they feel.

“It is very important to talk about mental health to break down the stigma often attached to mental health, to make it easier for people to come forward and seek help and to make it easier to for people share their experiences. I don’t think the importance has increased over recent years; I feel that we are becoming more open to talking about mental health.”

Promoting the importance of mental health in the workplace is a huge focus for the developer, as raising awareness and offering resources provides a step towards improved mental health for workers in the construction sector.

According to the mental health charity Mind, one in four people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England; with one in six people reporting experiencing a common mental health problem, like anxiety and depression, in any given week.

FIS GUIDANCE BRINGS CLARITY TO SUSPENDED CEILING REQUIREMENTS

THE FINISHES and Interiors Sector (FIS) has launched guidance that is designed to support and enable better understanding and engagement with BS EN 13964 – Suspended Ceilings, Requirements and Test Methods.

The standards guidance note aims to break down the standard into bitesized sections. This will make it easier to understand to those who aren’t already familiar, allowing anyone to isolate only the sections that are relevant or of interest and gain either a passing understanding or to establish the necessity of purchasing the full standard. Where appropriate, each section covered will also give relevant commentary on reasonable expectations of products in today’s marketplace.

You can download the guidance note from: www.thefis.org/wpcontent/uploads/2019/12/FIS-BSEN-13964-guidance-note-2022.pdf

For further information or for any questions and comments, please contact FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077

Council to buy student flats for £5.5m to help ease housing crisis

AS REPORTED BY THE LEICESTER MERCURY, Leicester City Council is set to spend £5.55 million on two blocks of student flats to help address the length of time people on the housing register have to wait for accommodation.

Leicester City Council is to buy the Zip Building, in Rydal Street, between Eastern Boulevard and Jarrom Street, near De Montfort University.

The purchase will help the authority meet its manifesto pledge to deliver 1,500 new ‘affordable’ homes during the electoral term, according to a report by the council on the

purchase. The council needs 786 new properties a year to achieve this target, but is averaging only 146 a year. The Zip Building will increase this supply by 58 homes, including much-needed one- and two-bed accommodation.

In addition to the purchase price, the council will spend a further £550,000 on building work and professional fees. This will be paid for through £2.4 million brought in through the Right to Buy scheme, £3.1 million of borrowing and £600,000 of ‘allowable debt’.

The authority loses an average of 400 council homes a year through the Right to Buy scheme. Over the past 40 years, its housing stock has been reduced from 36,000 to 20,000

homes, the council has said.

The Zip Building is made up of a two-block, four-storey building with 58 flats. These comprise: 20 bedsits; 27 one-bed flats with capacity for two people; four two-bed, fourperson flats; two two-bed, fourperson wheelchair accessible flats; two three-bed cluster flats where the rooms share communal areas; and three four-bed cluster flats.

Tina White, Assistant Accountant and Mental Health First Aider at David Wilson Homes

City Council to boost Waterside development with £4.9m funding

Mr Tim Burt (c/o Agent: Gavin Hinton Cook, Hinton Cook Architects, 15 Warren Yard, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5NW) – Outline permission for the demolition of existing automotive repair garage and erection of 7 dwellings – at Car Sales Office, Quorn Road, Rushden, Northants. NN10 6UU.

Burghley House Preservation Trust (c/o Agent: Tom Helliwell, Class Q, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PB) –Demolition of two existing dwellings and the erection of 11 detached dwellings resulting in a net increase of 9 dwellings on the land – at 31 The Drove, Collyweston, Northants. PE9 3PR

Corby Borough

Sharon Murison (c/o Agent: Daniel Clutterbuck, Harbur Design, 13 High Street, Finedon, Northants. NN9 5JN) – Erection of 2 new self-build dwellings – at land off Rockingham Road, Cottingham, Leics.

Rugby Borough

SP Engineering Services (c/o Agent: Ian Gidley, Land & Planning Consultants Ltd, Northgate House, 42 Main Road, Crick, Northants. NN6 7TX) – Demolition of industrial unit and erection of two pairs of twostorey semi-detached dwellings – at Hillmorton Yard, The Locks, Hillmorton, Rugby, Warks. CV21 4PP.

Mr Davies (c/o Agent: Rebecca Walker, Chapman Design LLP, Lelleford House, Coventry Road, Rugby, Warks. CV23 9DT) –Proposed change of use of an existing storage area above shop to 5 bedsits – at 11-12 Sheep Street, Rugby, Warks. CV21 3BU.

Mr L Tomes (c/o Agent: John Clarke, Howkins & Harrison, 7-11 Albert Street, Rugby, Warks. CV21 2RX) - Prior approval for the change of use of an existing agricultural building to 4no. dwellinghouses and associated building works – at Merlin Field Farm, Gibraltar Lane, Leamington Hastings, Warks. CV23 8EX.

David Lock Associates Ltd (c/o: Mrs Tanya Cosford, 50 North Thirteenth Street, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3BP) – Erection of 3 commercial units and associated works – at Ansty Aerodrome, Combe Fields Road, Combe Fields, Warks. CV7 9JR.

LEICESTER CITY COUNCIL intends to provide £4.9million of funding to emh Group towards the construction of 55 new affordable rent homes in the Waterside area.

Emh Group – one of the largest providers of affordable homes in the East Midlands – has confirmed that the council will be able to nominate people from its housing waiting list for the new homes. The new homes – which will be a mix of one and two-bedroom flats – will be part of the council’s response to the need for affordable housing supported living schemes that support adults who are in receipt of social care.

The 55 flats would be part of a larger proposed 75-unit supported housing scheme that emh Group plans to develop.

The council’s proposed contribution will be from receipts from the sale of council properties under the Government’s Right to Buy scheme.

Whenever a council property is sold under Right to Buy, the proceeds of the sale must be used in line with strict Government guidelines. This means that only some of the proceeds can be used to support the costs of building new affordable homes for rent. It also means that this money can only be used to cover up to 40 per cent of construction costs.

Council plans £4.9m of Right to Buy support for new affordable housing

PLANS to use almost £5million of Right to Buy cash to help address the need for more affordable homes have been announced by Leicester City Council.

The city council intends to provide £4.9million of funding to emh Group towards the construction of 55 new affordable rent homes in the Waterside area.

Emh Group – one of the largest providers of affordable homes in the East Midlands – has confirmed that the council will be able to nominate people from its housing waiting list for the new homes. The new homes – which will be a mix of one and two-bedroom flats – will be part of the council’ response to the need for affordable housing supported living schemes that support adults who are in receipt of social care.

The 55 flats would be part of a larger proposed 75-unit supported housing scheme that emh Group plans to develop.

The council’s proposed contribution will be from receipts from the sale of council properties under the Government’s Right to Buy scheme.

Cllr Elly Cutkelvin (right), assistant city mayor four housing said: “By providing Right to Buy funding to emh Group in this way, we can help ensure that dozens of new homes – including much-needed wheelchair accessible properties – are available at affordable rent to some of the most vulnerable people in the city.

“There is no doubt that the Right to Buy scheme has hit the supply of council housing hard. We’re losing homes much faster that they are being built and it’s time the Right to Buy scheme was abandoned. In the meantime, it is essential that we invest whatever proceeds back into addressing our local and critical need for more affordable homes.”

Whenever a council property is sold under Right to Buy, the proceeds of the sale must be used in line with strict Government guidelines. This means that only some of the proceeds can be used to support the costs of building new affordable homes for rent. It also means that this money can only be used to cover up to 40 per cent of construction costs.

Emh Group’s proposed scheme will be part of the delivery of over 360 new homes currently under construction by Keepmoat, the city council’s development partner for the first phase of the Waterside regeneration project.

New operating theatre planned at Leicester General Hospital

AS REPORTED by the Leicester Mercury

Leicester’s General Hospital is to open a new surgery unit to help cut the length of time people are waiting for procedures.

The new centre can be built on land next to the Brandon Unit, which is currently a staff car park, after Leicester City Council’s planning department approved the plan.

The single-storey structure will contain an operating theatre, as well as pre-op and post-op beds for patients. However, this is only phase one of the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust’s proposal for the site. Eventually the trust hopes to bring the vacant Brandon Unit back into use, with a separate planning application to be submitted to the city council.

The majority of the building work will take place off-site by the main contractors ModuleCo. This means the construction process will be shorter and will result in less noise, traffic, waste and pollution for patients, staff and neighbours.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Two plots for

for sale two building plots at 35 Butt Lane, Husbands Bosworth, Near Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 6LN.

Plot A has consent for a three-bed bungalow and Plot B has consent for a three-bed house.

Asking price: £350,000. Contact Naylors on 01858 450020 or email: sales@ naylorsestateagents.com

Trio Square Limited (c/o Agent: Mrs Emily Warner, Smith Jenkins Limited, 1st Floor, 1 Canon Harnett Court, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes MK12 5NF) – Proposed reuse of existing barnto provide 4 dwellings with external alterations and associated car parking and landscaping – at Grange Farm, London Road, Ryton-onDunsmore, Warks. CV8 3EW.

Five-storey student block planned for Loughborough

AS REPORTED in the Leicester Mercury, a block with 100 student rooms could be built in Loughborough, on the site of an old car wash.

A plan has been submitted to Charnwood Borough Council by developer 9 Property Group for the five-storey building on a vacant site that used to be the Crystal Hand Car Wash, now demolished.

The block, which would be across the street from Loughborough Magistrates’ Court, would contain 22 flats, and include a courtyard and a gym. Planning permission was previously given in 2020 to build student flats on the site in a six-storey building, including a basement level, but the new proposal has eliminated the basement.

Melton Building Society revamp

Lettings of premium new build units boosts Leicester’s trade counter offering

FOLLOWING pre let deals negotiated by joint marketing agents Andrew + Ashwell and APB, four new tenants now occupy the recently completed trade counter units at Parker Drive Trade Park, Leicester.

North of Leicester city centre, the 3.8 acre site forms part of one of Leicester’s most popular industrial estates. Road links are excellent, close to the A6 Abbey Lane connection to Loughborough and also with easy access via Blackbird Road to the A50, A46 Western bypass and junctions 21, 21a and 22 of the M1 motorway.

Parker Drive Trade Park was redeveloped from a former redundant industrial site and has become a local hub for warehouse and trade counter users, including B&Q and Travis Perkins, operating close by.

The new units of 5,000 to 8,000 sq ft deliver high quality modern warehouse accommodation and are adjacent to the first phase 35,000 sq ft premises already occupied by Selco. All four units on the second and final phase were pre-let while being developed speculatively by client Trafalgar Global

• Leading trade kitchen and joinery supplier Howdens Joinery was the first to complete, with the company taking 8,000 sq ft. First launched in 1995, Howdens has more than 700 trade outlets across the UK and Europe. The new premises will further enhance customer service.

• Award-winning Leicesterbased PVCU window and door manufacturer Unique Window Systems Ltd - also with larger premises nearby - has taken 8,500 sq ft to help expand business with trade, commercial and new house build markets.

• City Electrical Factors Ltd (CEF) has taken 5,000 sq ft; extending the company’s broad

network of wholesale distribution outlets for the electrical trade.

Established over 70 years ago in Coventry, CEF has 400 outlets in the UK - almost twice as many as the nearest competitor - with the latest expansion aiming to further boost service.

• Relocating to modern bespoke premises, another leading electrical wholesaler, Rexel, completes the lineup, also taking 5,000 sq ft, in providing local electricians, contractors and industrial organisations with high quality electrical products, site supplies and project solutions.

Geoff Gibson, A+A Consultant, said the success of the final phase at Parker Drive Trade

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MELTON BUILDING Society have partnered with fellow Leicester business, Blueprint Interiors, to carry out the refurbishment of their Mutual House offices.

Work is set to start in early October to modernise the interior of the well-known building, a landmark passed regularly by commuters travelling along Leicester Road.

The work is set to be completed in the spring of 2023.

x 130mm high £90.00+VAT

Half Page 194mm wide x 130mm high £165.00+VAT

Page (A4) 194mm wide x 268mm high £290.00+VAT

Park illustrates continued strong demand for modern, purpose-built accommodation.

“The dearth of high quality modern new-build trade premises has long been an issue in Leicester.

“Parker Drive has proven to be a particularly sought after location for trade counter activity and it is heartening to know that when we do see new development, buildings are snapped up by substantial companies able and keen to expand.”

For further information call Geoff Gibson at Andrew + Ashwell, on 0116 2541220, or visit www. andash.co.uk

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Donisthorpe plot

JOHN GERMAN Estate

Agents are offering for sale a tree-lined private building plot with detailed planning permission for a four bedroom luxury home of around 1,900 sq.feet. The plot is located at Church Street, Donisthorpe, Swadlincote, Derby DE12 7PX.

Offers in excess of £225,000 are invited. Contact John German on 01530 412824 or email: ashbysales@johngerman.co.uk

University of Leicester unveils £150m student village

THE UNIVERSITY of Leicester will officially unveil the city’s newest multimillion pound neighbourhood next week.

A special event to mark the opening of the University’s £150m Freemen’s development, located in Welford Road, took place in October.

The landmark regeneration project has seen derelict halls of residence and an open air car park transformed into a high-tech centre for teaching, working and living.

At its heart is the four-storey Sir Bob Burgess Building, named after the University’s former late Vice-Chancellor, which comprises two large lecture theatres, flexible teaching spaces and a state of the art space for staff to work, meet and relax.

The site also includes accommodation for 1,200 students, a social hub including a food outlet and bar and a 555-space multi-storey car park. The project has also seen the sensitive refurbishment and extension of the Grade II-listed Freemen’s Cottages as the centrepiece of the scheme.

Freemen’s was delivered by the University, equity partner and constructor EQUANS and funding partner Equitix.

The development was carried out in tandem with Leicester City Council’s work to create a much-needed link road connecting the east and west of the city, which includes sustainable transport improvements to junctions, crossings and infrastructure for walking and cycling. Contractor EQUANS was responsible for the highways upgrades around the Freemen’s Common site, in Welford Road and Putney Road.

Survey Results Reveal Over 60% of Property Flipped in The Midlands Made £10k-75k Profit

ACCORDING to new survey results released this month by Finbri, a UK property finance specialist, 61% of properties flipped in the Midlands made between £10k-£75k in profit. 3% of flips broke even and just 1.26% of respondents from the Midlands made a loss.

Surveying over 1,000 people across the UK that have flipped property in the last 2 years, the results also revealed that the Midlands is now home to more property flippers than in the South East of the country. While more property flippers live in the Midlands, London remains the most popular location for the properties themselves.

One of the reasons for this might be the more reasonable property prices in the Midlands. The latest figures from the government’s House Price Index show the average house price in the East Midlands is £237,904 and the West Midlands is £242,145, compared to the UK average of £299,249.

Finbri’s Stephen Clark (right) explains: ‘For most property developers or flippers looking to make a profit, it all hinges on the purchase price. Getting a good deal here creates the opportunity to make money. Even when budgeting up to £25k for a new kitchen or bathroom, the majority of flippers are making a significant profit which in turn can then be utilised to fund their next project.’

Property Developer at Warm Homes CIC in Birmingham, Rahul Raikhy, commented ‘I don’t believe there’s a bad time to invest in property. We have a growing population, the Midlands is such a booming area with HS2 coming in, all the universities and opportunities here, whether it is residential or commercial property there is plenty of it in the Midlands. I’ve developed eight properties now across the Midlands.’

Clark continues: ‘Despite soaring property prices, talk of crashes and general uncertainty, it’s great to see that there are definitely good opportunities for property flippers with healthy profits to be made.’

A FLURRY of large contract wins for brickwork, scaffolding and drywall business, Phoenix Brickwork, has seen it both spread its wings across the UK, and boost its turnover.

Of five new recent contracts, the three largest – totalling over £3.5m – have pushed this year’s turnover to over £25m, with wins in Nottingham, York and Birmingham.

The biggest contract, worth £1.5m, sees Phoenix team up with main contractor, Clegg Construction, to provide EOS SFS, drywall Internal partitions and ceiling as well as Rockfon suspended ceilings on a new 188-bedroom, four-storey Premier Inn in Layerthorpe, York.

Down the road in Nottingham, Phoenix will provide the brickwork and internal blockwork for the new iQ student accommodation block for Galliford Try. A total of 85 new student flats are being created as

part of an ongoing development in Nottingham with the contract win for Phoenix topping more than £1m.

The third largest completion – which touched nearly £1m for Phoenix, was Wylde Green Retirement Apartments for new client, Adlington Retirement Living. Phoenix will provide a brickwork and scaffold package. The retirement apartment complex is a four-storey, 57-apartment development in Sutton Coldfield.

Further project wins this year include projects in Sheffield and Tamworth, with Phoenix’s team delivering fire-stopping work, external brickwork and blockwork services for Equans and GMI Construction. These last two wins, each worth in excess of £250,000, demonstrate the broader reach that Derbyshire-based Phoenix is experiencing.

In total, these recent contract completions have totalled over £4m, setting Phoenix Brickwork

(UK) Ltd on target for exceeding £25m turnover this year.

Christian Watson, group chairman at Phoenix Brickwork (UK) Ltd, said: “These recent successes are built on the quality of our team and their work.

“Our relationships with main contractors, many of whom are long-term clients, are becoming ever stronger, as we continue to deliver projects on time and on budget, to extremely high standards. It is exciting to witness such strong growth in the first half of this year already, with more wins to follow. In addition, the further growth of Phoenix in wider geographical projects will only fuel more success.”

Atherstone Hunt kennels site sold

BURTON-BASED commercial property agents Rushton Hickman and their joint agent Gareth Holland & Co. have sold the former Atherstone Hunt kennels in Witherely, near to Atherstone in Leicestershire, on behalf of the Thorpe Estate.

Outline planning consent was granted in January 2022 for redevelopment of the site’s existing historic buildings into a complex of six two-bedroom homes and a trio of three-bedroom properties as well as a new cottage style threebedroom home.

Following a short marketing period for the sale of the property by method of informal tender with a guide price of £1,200,000, a local housing developer purchased the site with a winning bid of £1,250,000.

Every day, man is making bigger and better foolproof things, and every day, nature is making bigger and better fools. So far, I think nature is winning.

A residential development opportunity

Bedworth CV12 9QU

the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Plan 2011 2031 (2019) A

and ancillary infrastructure, in accordance with Policy HSG7 Extending to circa 25.18

of 230

The site is allocated in the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Plan 2011 2031 (2019). A total of 230 dwellings are proposed, along with associated play

Policy HSG7

The site

Outline Planning Application has been submitted for residential

Close and all other matters reserved.

northern parcel accommodating c132 dwellings and

DEVELOPMENT

at

Trio of new contract wins confirms Phoenix Brickwork’s credentials as turnover exceeds £25m

Christian Watson, Group Chairman at Phoenix Brickwork (UK) Ltd

New homes released at New Lubbesthorpe

DAVID WILSON

HOMES has released 74 new properties at its New Lubbesthorpe development to give house hunters a greater opportunity to find their dream home in Leicester.

Suited to first time buyers, growing families and downsizers alike, this new collection of properties offers a range of two, three, four and five bedroom homes, all of which feature spacious layouts and aspirational interiors throughout.

New Lubbesthorpe currently has a selection of two, three and four bedroom properties available with prices starting from £269,995.

Calling all architects ... Council looking to run national competition for major Mansfield housing scheme

MANSFIELD

DISTRICT Council is looking to launch a major competition inviting architects worldwide to design a significant new social housing scheme on a derelict site close to the town centre.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) would manage the competition to find an outstanding design for Mansfield’s White Hart Street area.

The council purchased land in this area in order to facilitate the regeneration of this key town centre site. The area has stood derelict for over a decade now. It previously had planning permission for a mixed retail and residential scheme in 2008, but market conditions meant this scheme was never taken forward.

The area subsequently became blighted and has, as a consequence, become a magnet for anti-social behaviour. Redevelopment of this area would strongly align with the council’s Growth, Aspiration, Wellbeing and Place priorities.

Cllr Marion Bradshaw, portfolio holder for safer communities, housing and wellbeing, is now being recommended to approve a decision about appointing RIBA to manage the competition.

If approved, the RIBA-managed competition would cost the council a maximum of £79,000.

The firm winning the competition would progress the design for planning permission – subject to approval by the Full Council of the business case.

The area to be redeveloped is located within the Bridge Street conservation area which contains buildings of historic and architectural merit. The homes built are expected to be a mix of housing types and would be added to the council’s stock of affordable homes.

It is anticipated the design competition would run between November 2022 to March 2023, with a decision on the winner made in April 2023. After that, a detailed design would be drawn up, with a decision on the business case expected in September 2023.

If that business case is approved, it would be followed by a planning application in October 2023. If that is approved, demolition work could start in early 2024 and building work in July 2024.

Castle Donington architectural studio shortlisted for award as it celebrates third anniversary

THE PRACTICAL Planning Company revealed as finalist at the East Midlands Business Masters Awards 2022 Architectural design firm The Practical Planning Company, based in Leicestershire, has been named as a finalist at this year’s East Midlands Business Masters Awards.

The news comes after a bumper year of awards success and growth for the team, culminating in a relocation to Castle Donington – just as the team celebrates its third anniversary.

Company co-director Benjamin Heginbotham says: “We’re incredibly proud to have been shortlisted in this prestigious East Midlands awards programme.”

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Benjamin and Jodie Heginbotham in October 2019, The Practical Planning Company has quickly built a reputation for their hands-on, bespoke service, helping more than 400 homeowners design their dream home.

Development opportunity in Market Harborough

FISHER GERMAN & Mather Jamie are jointly offering for sale a residential development opportunity at 39 & 40 High Street, Market Harborough, Leics.

The property comprises two Grade II Listed high street properties and associated curtilage, with planning permission to deliver 21 dwellings (convert building to 11 flats and build 10 new dwellings).

The Guide Price is £1.75 million.

Contact Alex Morrison at Fisher German on 07425 509070 or email: alex. morrison@fishergerman.co.uk

Worksurfacing Industry for the

Tel: 01455 889726 Mobile: 0772 309 2474

Seabrook Digital Solutions Ltd www.seabrookdigital.com

My wife met me at the door the other night in a sexy negligee. Unfortunately, she was just coming home.

Midlands housebuilder turns pink for Wear It Pink Day

REGIONAL housebuilder Allison Homes donned pink safety gear and installed pink flags at its developments in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Wear It Pink Day, on Friday 21st October.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place every October and is run by Breast Cancer Now, a charity that funds world-class research, supports those affected by breast cancer and works with hospitals to improve treatments and services.

Within its Central region, Allison Homes has swapped out its regular hard hats for pink ones and put up pink flags at its developments throughout Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Rutland and Newark.

Rob Crossland, Construction Director at Allison Homes Central Region, said: “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a fantastic cause, and one that we’re thrilled to be supporting. Breast Cancer Now is a lifeline for people all across the country who are affected by breast cancer, and we hope that this year’s fundraiser is a huge success, enabling the charity to continue to provide its invaluable services.”

Online solution that supports contractor requirements launches

A UNIQUE online platform that makes it easy to connect with national suppliers to gain the most competitive quote, or simply to ensure availability and choose the most local option, has been launched by The Build Chain.

Through its easyto-use dashboard, contractors can efficiently source quotes when hiring equipment and purchasing materials, tackling issues including price inflations, product availability, and the requirement to lower carbon emissions by choosing suppliers within a set radius of the project.

Matthew McClune, co-founder and chief commercial officer of The Build Chain, said: “Our online platform was created to fulfil what the industry needs and to solve a variety of longstanding industry issues. For instance, the difficulty of comparing and compliantly benchmarking quotes, as well as choosing a local supplier that will help everyone in the chain to meet net zero targets and support regional economies.

“The centralised digital dashboard stores information and correspondence in one location - ensuring no emails, phone calls, or paperwork are missed, as well as meaning all information can be archived for future use and reference.

“This is an opportunity for all contractors, irrespective of their business size, to embrace digitalisation and improve processes through collaboration. We have already partnered with a range of independent and national merchants pre-launch, so the platform is ready to go. We’re confident contractors across the country will see the benefit immediately for a low subscription cost that will soon be recouped through an improved quotation process.”

The Build Chain is a subscription-based platform with three different packages, starting from £50-per month, that allow users to select a monthly fee that suits their business needs. The platform does not charge commission – meaning complete transparency and no surprise fees. This also results in no disruption to the procurement process for suppliers, or contractors. The platform’s live chat function gives users instant responses to queries, speeding up the process and ensuring a compliant process throughout.

Contractors submit enquiries through their dashboard and the software instantly matches their enquiries to suppliers who are filtered by distance from site and product offering, helping to meet social value and decarbonisation targets, whilst ensuring seamless connections between the contractor and suppliers. As part of the service, users benefit from indepth, data-driven reports, bespoke to their business as well as access to an “Expo” section full of new product information and advice.

TRIO OF SENIOR APPOINTMENTS AT WILLIAM DAVIS HOMES

AWARD-WINNING housebuilder William Davis Homes has recruited to three new senior roles to support its ambitious expansion plans.

The Leicestershire-based company has created separate Land Director roles for both the East and West Midlands – to drive the procurement and preparation of land for development – as well as appointing a Chief Financial Officer.

Matt Colloby is West Midlands Land Director, heading a new team in that region. He brings significant expertise to the role, having over 35 years in the industry.

Matt said: “I’m relishing this exciting challenge –establishing the new office and working with the team to secure a pipeline of developments, which will supplement our current live sites and planning interests.”

Sarah Whetton joins William Davis as East Midlands land director, having already worked for a number of different housebuilders across more than 30 years – much of that at executive level.

Sarah said: “Land with planning consent and in good locations is in high demand. I want to be able to help the company deliver a successful longterm land strategy which means acquiring the right opportunities for the business.

“I’m already loving it. I have an energetic and committed team working with me who equally understand the William Davis values and the ways in which we do business.”

Chief Financial Officer Richard Irons qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1999 with KPMG. He has a strong track record in corporate and financial leadership across a wide range of sectors and brings a wealth of commercial and operational experience to William Davis

Richard said: “The product here is fantastic and the focus on quality and customer satisfaction is part of the William Davis DNA. I see my main role as helping the company to grow sustainably and efficiently without compromising the qualities for which it’s so well known.”

Guy Higgins, Managing Director of William Davis Homes, said: “We’re delighted to have made three such high-quality additions to our leadership team. It’s always been our philosophy that to succeed, we need to secure and nurture the best talent.”

Richard Irons and Sarah Whetton will be based at William Davis headquarters in Loughborough, while Matt and his new West Midlands team are in Leamington Spa in Warwickshire.

The 5-star housebuilder is planning to build and complete the sale of more than 400 new homes this year, at more than a dozen sites across the Midlands.

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Academy trust for new primary school

AN ACADEMIC trust has been selected to run a new, £8m primary school being built in a rapidly growing Leicestershire town.

OWLS (Oadby, Wigston and Leicestershire Schools) Academy Trust will run the 210-pupil school – Hollycroft Primary – which is currently under construction off Normandy Way in Hinckley, next to Bloor Homes’ new Hollycroft Grange housing estate.

Most of the school’s cost has been met by developer Bloor Homes as part of Section 106 planning obligations arising from the new housing development.

The school is being built to Leicestershire County Council’s specifications, with seven classrooms and a specialist teaching room for practical subjects such as cookery, as well as a hall, library, garden and wildlife area.

In line with the county council’s green agenda, the state-of-the-art school will also feature solar panels and air source heat pumps. Once complete, ownership of the school will be transferred to the council.

The school is expected to open its doors in September 2023, in time for the new academic year.

Algeco secures £27.6m Northampton modular school framework

ALGECO UK LTD has secured a Department for Education (DfE) funded project for the offsite construction of Northampton School for Boys Multi-Academy Trust.

The project was secured via the MMC1 Lot 1 modular framework (*DfE published contract value is £27.6m). Algeco, acting as Principal Design & Build Contractor and working with Watson Batty Architects, is providing a full turnkey solution.

The announcement is the latest in a trio of recent new project wins for Algeco Offsite Solutions totalling over £90m.

Algeco will begin work on site in January 2023.

A total of 210 modules will be supplied by Algeco using the innovative Seismic technology, plus a hybrid structure for the halls, to create the 1200 place new secondary school, including sixth form provision.

The first modules, which will be manufactured by Algeco in its Carnaby facility in East Yorkshire, will be delivered to site in August 2023. Handover of the completed school is scheduled to take place in 2024.

Algeco UK Ltd, formerly best known as Elliott in the UK, is part of the Modulaire Group, a leader in European modular services and infrastructure. Algeco operates 23 site locations throughout the country servicing its portable, modular building and offsite construction hire and sales activities.

With UK headquarters in Peterborough, Algeco employs over 1,200 people and a turnover of c£200m. It is a leader in both temporary accommodation, with one of the largest rental fleets in the UK, and bespoke permanent offsite building solutions for a variety of sectors, including education, health, living accommodation and roadside retail.

Details of development on outskirts of Shepshed revealed

AS REPORTED IN THE LEICESTER MERCURY, full details for a scheme for 210 new homes on farmland in Shepshed have been revealed.

The development, on 12 hectares of land on the western outskirts of the town between Ashby Road West and Tickow Lane, was given outline planning permission in July 2021.

If the details are approved, homes will be built on two parcels either side of a wetland area – called Valley Park – and a woodland glade. A green space to be known as Tickow Green will sit within one area of housing, while a neighbourhood park containing a children’s playground is at the heart of the other, with Jubilee Green – a ‘semi-natural open space’ in the northeast corner of the plot – acting as a gateway between the estate and Jubilee Way.

There will be 39 two-bedroom, 81 three-bedroom, and 90 four-bedroom houses, with 20% of the homes being affordable, split equally between social rent and intermediate housing, which the council describes as ‘homes for sale and rent provided at a cost above social rent, but below market levels’.

The play area will cater to children aged from one to 15 and will include a play hut, a baby-seat swing, a rope swing and a crawling pyramid for children to climb, as well as other play equipment and seating.

Pedestrian routes will connect the estate to the Jubilee Way and to another estate of new housing to the north. Two new roads off Tickow Lane will lead into the development.

A public right of way between Ashby Road West and Jubilee Way will run through the site as a ‘green corridor’ passing through the neighbourhood park and play space, while a farm track on the eastern edge will also be kept to ensure extra green space between the houses and White Horse Wood, an area of ancient woodland.

Artist’s impression of Hollycroft Primary School off Normandy Way in Hinckley