Dec 2014 leicestershire builder magazine by Michael Wilkinson

REACHING OVER 3,500 BUILDING-BASED COMPANIES IN LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND EVERY MONTH

Auction

Wednesday 10th December 2014 A total of 13 select properties are due to go under the hammer at the next Shonki Bros. Property Auction on Wednesday 10th December 2014, at the King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, starting at 5pm prompt.

Among the lots to be offered is a freehold investment opportunity at Sibson Road, Birstall - pictured above. The property comprises retail, residential, workshops, offices & garage accommodation and has an estimated full rental income of £31,721.08 (10% Net Initial Yield) The Guide price is £325,000. For brief details of all of the lots on offer, turn to pages 16 & 17 of this issue or download the full catalogue from the website at: www.shonkibros.com

Velodrome is transformed into 45 brand new affordable homes A derelict site in Leicester which was once home to the country’s national velodrome has been given a new lease of life as a brand new housing development thanks to a partnership between Westleigh, the Asra Housing Group and Leicester City Council.

HANDOVER: From left, Gary

The £4.8 million scheme, on Saffron Lane, Turner, Head of Investment and has seen disused land transformed into 45 new Partnership at Westleigh hands affordable homes which includes a mix of two four- over the completed development bedroom properties, 13 three-bedroom houses, 20 to Matt Cooney, Group Chief two-bedroom homes, including two bungalows, and Executive of Asra, with Cllr Andy 10 one-bedroom apartments. Five of the properties Connelly, Assistant Mayor for have also been designed specifically for wheelchair Housing at Leicester City Council users. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Advert & Article Deadline is 15th of each month - Magazine out on 1st of each month

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Velodrome From page 1

The development, which has been built by leading Leicestershire house builder Westleigh, is served by a new, signal controlled junction, off Saffron Lane, which was funded through a £500,000 loan from the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP); a further £1 million was provided for the scheme through the Homes and Communities Agency. Gary Turner, Head of Investment and Partnership at Westleigh, commented, “We’re thrilled to have been involved in putting this site back to good use for the benefit of the community. “New housing is in high demand in the city and we’re pleased to provide such a diverse range of new homes to suit all needs and tastes.” Michele Walker, Asra’s Programme Delivery Manager for the Midlands, said, “We’re really proud to be delivering much needed affordable housing in Leicester. By working with the local authority we have brought it back to life and it will now become home to many local people.” Nick Pulley, Chair of the LLEP, said, “This development is a perfect example of how the Government’s Growing Places Fund has helped to bring a derelict brownfield site back into social and community use. “The LLEP is pleased to have been able to contribute to the success of this exemplary affordable housing scheme.” City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “This scheme has created some much-needed new affordable homes in Leicester – and given a boost to the local construction industry. “I am delighted that the city council was able to provide the land for the scheme and that our partnership with Westleigh and Asra has enabled a derelict site to be transformed into this new community of 45 homes.” Westleigh is part of the Homes & Communities Agency Delivery Partner Panel on both the Midlands and Northern lots and work closely together with housing associations to build affordable new homes throughout the East and West Midlands, South Yorkshire and Cambridgeshire. For further information please call 0116 277 3324 or visit www.westleigh.co.uk

I like to sleep with the bedside lamp on, even though my wife thinks it’s weird. I don’t see why. I think it makes a great hat.

RICS UK Residential Market Survey, October 2014

House price growth in East Midlands continues to slow House price momentum in the UK continued to slow according to the latest RICS Residential Market Survey. Nationally, new buyer demand slipped for the fourth consecutive month with London bearing the brunt of the decline. In the East Midlands demand also remained low, with 8% more surveyors reporting a fall in new buyer demand. As a result of the weaker trend in buyer interest, sales expectations are now lower than the beginning of the year (a net balance of 26%) and the picture regarding near term price expectations is not dissimilar. Meanwhile, in the East Midlands stock coming onto the market rose slightly in October (a net balance of 4%) but remains low, continuing the trend which has been in place for much of the past year. Much anecdotal evidence from surveyors points to an ongoing challenge in securing adequate new instructions. In the lettings market, tenant demand in the East Midlands remains steady (a net balance of 12%). Rent expectations also remain almost unchanged as we move into autumn, with respondents’ anticipating an increase of around 1.4% over the next twelve months in the region. Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, said: “The flatter trend in the market is partly a reflection of potential buyers becoming a little more cautious about making a purchase as more stringent lending criteria has made it harder to access mortgage finance. An increasing awareness of the approaching general election also appears to be contributing to the softer market if the responses to the latest survey are anything to go by. However, with new instructions still flat at a headline level as has been the case for most of the last year it seems implausible that the dip in demand will result in very much of a decline in house prices. Meanwhile, demand to rent property is growing as the sales market slows and this, coupled with a drop in supply of new stock to let, is helping to underpin the rental outlook for landlords pretty much across the whole of the country.” David Hawke FRICS of David Hawke & Co. in Worksop, commented: “General activity has reduced again – there seems to be a general slowdown in the state of the market, which is disappointing.”

Development Property IN BRIEF

Measham development opportunity PARAMOUNT Investment & Development Brokerage are offering for sale a residential development opportunity at High Street, Measham. The site - currently a retail unit with office upper parts - has full planning permission for conversion to 4 luxury houses. Guide price: £250,000. For more information, contact Paramount on 020 7644 2300 or visit www.paramountinvestments. co.uk

Award for innovative housing website Blaby District Council has received an award for its Homefinder Scheme at the recent Chartered Institute of Housing Midlands Awards. Homefinder was competing against two other schemes for the Business Transformation of the Year award, which it won at the annual awards evening held at Birmingham’s ICC. The judges were looking for a scheme that had taken steps to deliver a successful and sustainable transformation within an organisation, had built customer trust and loyalty through the delivery of the right products, and embraced innovation, delivering a business strategy suited to the needs of its customers. They were impressed with how the Homefinder website had improved access to private rented accommodation for the homeless, increased the supply of affordable, good quality private rented accommodation and improved property management standards. Homefinder is made up of a partnership of Leicestershire city and district councils, and some partners have reported a 50% reduction in the number of temporary accommodation placements reducing significant costs. The scheme has increased housing solutions, provided advice, information and support for landlords, as well identifying rogue landlords. The CIH Midlands Awards are in its second year, and had over 300 guests from across the housing profession in attendance. There were nine award categories with a total of 28 finalists. To find out more about CIH visit www.cih.org/eastmidlands

I’ve just spent ages waxing my car. I’m still not sure how it gets that hairy.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Small sites exemption will help build more homes, says FMB

An exemption for small sites from the off-site elements of the zero carbon standard will allow more new homes to be built by small local builders and help create diversity and choice in the housing market, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to the Government’s consultation on the small sites exemption. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The FMB is supportive of the zero carbon objective but we are concerned about the disproportionate cost implications for smaller house builders. The Allowable Solutions element of zero carbon will be added in 2016 and could result in smaller building firms paying out an additional £2,000 for every single detached home. It is therefore absolutely right that adjustments are made to ensure small local builders can build as many new homes as possible at a time when we are building only half the number of new homes required to meet demand.” Berry concluded: “Let’s be clear – an exemption from Allowable Solutions will have no impact on the quality or energy efficiency standards of the new homes being built. These homes will still be built to the same energy performance standards as all other new homes but will avoid impeding the delivery of new homes by SME house builders.”

My mother ran off with the milkman when I was five years old. Watching them drive away together on his float was the worst hour and a half of my life.

Award for Rutland housing project which revived listed buildings A housing development in Rutland which revived derelict Grade II Listed buildings has won an esteemed industry award. Hazelton Homes’ Old Hall Farm development in Cottesmore triumphed in the large residential category at the ProCon Awards for Leicestershire and Rutland. Hazelton Homes Hazelton Homes receive the Large Residential Award for Old Hall Farm in Cottesmore at converted the ProCon 2014. Pictured from left, John Edmond of awards sponsor Marrons Shakespeare, last remaining Hazelton Homes Managing Director Tom Hazelton, Hazelton Homes Construction outbuildings Manager Ken Brown and comedian Dominic Holland, who presented the awards belonging to ceremony. Photo Courtesy Of Procon Leicestershire Ltd Cottesmore Hall into 12 homes and built a further 13 homes on the adjoining land off Hall Close. The scheme’s careful marriage of the old and new impressed the ProCon judges and members. Hazelton Homes Managing Director, Tom Hazelton, said: “It’s a real honour to be recognised by our peers for a development we’re extremely proud of. “Old Hall Farm is a sound example of how the old and new can merge to create an attractive, sustainable development on brownfield land. “There were significant challenges to overcome and our expertise in listed building refurbishment were crucial. We’re delighted with the end result and we know people in the village of Cottesmore share in this.” The listed buildings date back to the 16th century and are believed to have been used as stables and a cottage. Cottesmore Hall was located to the north of the site and was home to the Countess of Lonsdale. A fire all but destroyed the hall in 1928 and it was demolished in 1974 to make way for new homes at Cresswell Drive. Rutland County Council gave permission for the outbuildings to be converted in 2002 but the work did not progress. Three further planning applications were submitted before Hazelton Homes bought the site in 2010. The development progressed throughout the recession, with Oakham-based estate agents Moores brought onboard to help sell the properties. The final home was occupied earlier this year. • The ProCon Awards are known as the biggest celebration of the built environment and the people who develop, design and construct winning developments. More than 600 people attended the 12th annual awards ceremony at the King Power Stadium in Leicester in November. Other finalists in the large residential category were The Ashton in Hinckley, a converted warehouse which became a 72-bed nursing home constructed by Wynbrook, and The Courtyard in Quorn, an apartment development within a former police station designed by architects LE1.

I bought my five-year-old a torch for his birthday. You should have seen his face light up.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Every single day I question my sanity and every single day, it has an alibi.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Your Local Quantity Surveyor Offering Friendly, Professional Advice Free initial consultation All work undertaken from tender stage through to final account Covering all sectors of the industry including residential, social housing, commercial and industrial 35 years experience in the construction industry For more information please visit our website: www.mjsurveyingltd.com Email: mark@mjsurveying.plus.com Telephone Mark on 07969 830986

Thursday 4th December 2014

It’s tough having a big nose. I can’t swim backstroke in the sea without someone shouting ‘Shark!’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

National Accolade for Rising Stars in the Lift Industry

Engineering and manufacturing company Lift & Engineering Services Ltd, which has a branch office in Markfield, has scooped the prized national accolade of being announced Constructing Excellence’s national SME of the Year.

Development Property IN BRIEF

Land for 10 dwellings in Hinckley

The company beat off strong entries from across the English and Welsh regions which all won the regional title in their respective region’s own awards. Not only have they been announced as the national winner, but during the course of 2014 they achieved a unique position of being the regional construction SME of the Year in both the West Midlands and London & the South East regions, something that no other company has achieved in the 9 years of the Constructing Excellence awards. Managing Director David Haywood said “In all our years of winning national and regional awards this is our crowning moment – I can only thank all our employees for their contribution to our successes and I’m looking forward to sharing our future with them“ Our photo shows David and his son Scott, the company’s Business Development Manager, with their trophy and accompanied by Constructing Excellence board member Roy Casey and his partner Jackie, both of whom provide consultancy services to Lift & Engineering Services Ltd. Business Development Manager Scott said “This type of recognition of our performance makes the future look more certain for us all and it certainly makes my job easier being able to sell the company with these types of awards“ This is the second time the award as been won by a West Midlands company in 2 years, evidencing the strength of the regional SME business community. Roy Casey commented that “We work with many SMEs to help transform their performance and profile but few are as exemplar as david and his team – this accolade is richly deserved!“ The company employs 102 people across its 3 operational bases in the West Midlands, East Midlands and London.

WARDS Commercial are offering for sale a 1.45 acre parcel of development land with planning permission for 10 dwellings (including 2 affordable homes) at Paddock Way, Hinckley LE10 3ED. Offers in the region of £500,000 are invited. Contact Wards on 01455 251771 or visit www.wardscommercial.co.uk

Building plot in Bedworth PAUL CHILLINGSWORTH HOMES are offering for sale a building plot with planning permission for a three-bed detached house. The plot - is situated on the corner of Mavor Drive and Anderton Road, Bedworth CV12 0HD Offers in the region of £40,000. Contact Paul Chillingsworth Homes on 02476 258492 or email: reception@covagent.co.uk

Block solutions made simple thanks to new guide from Tarmac Tarmac Building Products has produced a detailed guide to support customers under growing pressure to meet strict building requirements when sourcing blocks. The free 196-page guide, which details Tarmac Building Products’ range of lightweight aircrete and medium and dense aggregate blocks, explains how its comprehensive solutions are designed to work together to achieve unique combinations of thermal, acoustic, and structural performance. The manual also includes valuable guidance on meeting building regulations, calculating U-values, adhering to the Code for Sustainable Homes, managing movement control and achieving optimal durability. Order a copy of the guide by emailing marketing@tarmacbp.co.uk or by calling 0333 003 4798. For more details on Tarmac Building Products, please visit www.tarmacbuildingproducts.co.uk.

Leicestershire Builder Magazine Published By: Builder Magazines PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT Tel: (01530) 244069 Fax: (01530) 249557 Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk Web: www.buildermagazines.co.uk Over 3,500 copies distributed every month across Leicestershire & Rutland by a combination of: • By Post to SUBSCRIBERS and a rotating free mailing list (2,200 copies) • Through trade counters of local merchants (1,300 copies) SUBSCRIPTIONS: £20 PER YEAR (No VAT) TO SUBSCRIBE: CALL 01530 244069 and leave your details, or subscribe via our Website. We’ll invoice you later. Printed in Ellistown by: Norwood Press

Published on 1st of each month. Copy Deadline: 15th of each month

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Editorial/Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Builder Magazines cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Builder Magazines reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All property details contained within this magazine are to be regarded as being for outline guidance only. All potential interested parties are requested to check individual availability of premises for accuracy of details with the relevant selling agents before proceeding further.

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My wife’s carrying our first child. I told her, ‘He’s nine; he should be walking by now.’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

NHBC announces new Standards Chapter to reduce basement claims

NHBC, the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, has announced details of its new Standards Chapter to improve the quality and build of basements as they become an increasingly common property feature. Last year NHBC revealed that between 2005 and 2013, waterproofing below ground structure claims cost the industry £21million, affecting almost 900 homes. NHBC Chapter 5.4 ‘Waterproofing of basements and other below ground structures’ is aimed at improving the construction quality and robustness of below ground waterproofing, resulting in reduced need for remedial works, costs and disruption to homeowners. With increasing house prices and limited availability of land more developers are extending below ground, particularly in London. Recent headlines have included “Why Londoners are digging deep” and basement planning applications have surged in areas such as the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea from just 13 in 2001 to 307 two years ago. NHBC’s Mark Jones, Head of House-Building Standards, said: “The new Chapter introduces significant changes in the way the house-building industry considers below ground waterproofing, including an up-skilling of designers and installers and changes to future designs. We worked closely with the industry, including The Property Care Association, to ensure we delivered a comprehensive chapter that will serve the sector for many years to come.” Chapter 5.4, which will become effective when it is included in the new NHBC Standards, due next summer, covers key issues including; • Basement design; which should be undertaken by a suitably qualified specialist and be appropriate to the level of risk. If waterproofing is to a part of the structure forming a space where ‘Grade 3’ protection is required (i.e. habitable accommodation) and more than 600mm of ground is being retained, a combined system comprising two types of waterproofing should be used. Where the waterproofing is to more than 15% of the perimeter of the building or more than 600mm high, an appropriate investigation of the ground conditions should be undertaken. • Materials; only systems, including important ancillary components, which have been assessed and proven to provide suitable performance in a given situation, should be used. • Sitework; Recognising the importance of ensuring correct installation in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, waterproofing should only be undertaken by operatives who are suitably trained or qualified using proprietary components to form complex changes in direction of the waterproofing and service penetrations. For further information please see NHBC Technical Extra 16, at www.nhbc.co.uk/Builders/ProductsandServices/TechnicalExtra/

Commercial Trend of Businesses Moving Away From Big Office Spaces Once, the size of your offices said something about the success of your firm. If you had a whole floor that was impressive; a whole building, even more so. Take a walk around Leicester now and you’ll see a different type of commercial space succeeding. It seems the demand for generous square feet is now balanced out by the lure of smaller workspaces like LCB Depot and Phoenix Square, which are both doing well. This trend is partly due to the number of start-ups and self-employed businesses in the East Midlands. Leicester has around 30,000 SMEs alone, all of which need a premises and a postal address. A huge office is out of the question – but the flexibility of hotdesking or renting meeting rooms is much more practical. Vicky Cartwright, Manager of Metz Architects at Phoenix Square, appreciates how smaller, neighbourly workspaces benefit businesses relying on referrals. “Our workspace is a fantastic creative hub with modern facilities,” Vicky enthuses. “We love its friendly atmosphere, and being surrounded by so many other innovative businesses has a real positive influence on our work.” Professional firms like accountants and architects can benefit hugely from working closer to other businesses. It helps with networking, generating referrals and collaborative work. It adds to the culture and community feel, and makes a building more diverse with employees who have all sorts of different backgrounds and skills. This trend of downsizing is partly due to the improvements in technology too. We’re no longer restricted by the need for huge filing cabinets, as important documents can be stored digitally. Meetings don’t always have to be done in person as Skype and conference calling have made their way into our daily lives. There’s a saying that claims “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. It is certainly reflected in the current trend to want more from your place of work. Whether it’s a built-in gym, café, recreation facilities or simply space to sit and chat – a businesses are recognising the benefits of rewarding staff. Just look at Google’s new London office, due to open in 2016, which will have an open-air swimming pool, indoor football pitch and even a climbing wall. The argument is the era of chaining staff to a desk is over. Creativity and enthusiasm is nurtured by a stimulating environment, employers are recognising this when they decide which leases to renew. It’s also true that workspaces and smaller units are more flexible, with shorter leases and more bespoke terms of agreement. Of course this alternative choice isn’t always suitable for the firms with huge workforces, but then more and more organisations are embracing flexible working hours, with more staff working from home. For a city like Leicester with an abundance of SMEs, it can be a great starting point.

Alec Hamlin

Development Manager at Blueprint

Site for 14 homes in Nuneaton LOVEITTS are asking £600,000 for a residential development site at the rear of 116-120 Haunchwood Road, Nuneaton CV10 8DJ. The 0.74 acre site has Outline Planning Consent for 13 chalet bungalows for the over55s, plus a two-storey terraced house. (Consent is subject to a Section 106 Agreement.) Contact Loveitts on 024 7622 8111 or visit: www.loveitts.co.uk

I went into the changing room several times, but it was still the same.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Tel: 01530 244069

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76433 - Maxi Building Ad_02.indd 1

I used to dress off the peg, but now my neighbours take their washing in at night.

30/09/2014 11:59

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Doesanyoneknowwhatthebaronthebottomofthekeyboardisfor?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Local places need more local powers to unlock development, MPs and Peers urge

he next Government should further extend devolutionary powers to the UK’s cities and regions to promote growth and close the UK’s north-south divide, a cross-party group of MPs and Peers has urged. In a report launched in November, the All Party Urban Development Group (APUDG) argues that making local authorities and strategic areas responsible for a range of priorities – promoting local growth, rebalancing the economy, improving infrastructure, creating jobs and increasing the availability of housing – would allow Government to build on the success of the range of ‘growth initiatives’ launched in this Parliament. The report, published with British Property Federation (BPF) and Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners (NLP), examines the extent to which Government policies, including new funding streams, financial measures, and structures such as Local Enterprise Partnerships have stimulated development activity. [1] It notes that while economic growth does not always require new development, there are many areas where economic growth cannot be delivered without a simultaneous increase in new business space. It urges the next Government to continue to focus on growth, noting that devolving powers to, and working more closely with, local authorities would allow for greater understanding of local challenges, and greater use of local strengths. The report points out how many initiatives are predicated to have a long-term impact and will need to stay high on the political agenda of all parties in order to ensure they can create new jobs and support economic development over time. It calls for improved coordination, evaluation and monitoring of the initiatives, and warns against scrapping these schemes and replacing them with new ones before they have a chance to bed-in. The principal recommendations of the report are: • Improve coordination and evaluation across the range of initiatives There is a need for an expert resource within central Government to act as a point of contact for local authorities to help them connect the many different strands of local growth funding, policy-making, and implementation, and join up various funding streams more effectively.

A shared evaluation mechanism for all Government growth initiatives needs to be developed as a priority and its framework rigorously applied. • Improve the offer in Enterprise Zones and gear it more closely to local conditions The ‘offer’ in Enterprise Zones needs to be reappraised. Enterprise Zones need to become more bespoke, providing incentives geared to the specific circumstances of individual Zones. In some circumstances, this should include the use of capital allowances for new build. Renewed consideration also needs to be given to introducing powers for using ‘Enterprise Zone Schemes’ for the grant of planning permission, instead of relying on local development orders as the means to simplifying the planning process within the Zones. • Use Tax Increment Financing more constructively Lessons can be learned from the successful use of TIF and how it can be applied to other areas where upfront infrastructure expenditure is the key barrier to progress. Many more currently unviable schemes could be taken forward if the Government allowed TIF to be used more widely, within a set of rigorous parameters such as those advocated by the BPF and others. • Reduce the deterrent to development posed by empty rates If the Government wishes to boost construction activity then at a minimum it should extend Empty Property Rates Relief to cover the regeneration and refurbishment of empty (or substantially underoccupied) buildings. This is economically productive activity that necessarily requires void property and should be encouraged, not penalised by the tax system. • Take the devolution of powers to cities much further Real progress has been made in devolving more powers to city regions through fiscal and financial devolution, but this could be taken much further. Cities should be given greater flexibility to borrow and retain additional revenue generated by growth, as well as greater freedom to use innovative devices such as TIF and earn-back. • Give Local Enterprise Partnerships long-term certainty The LEP model is firmly in place, and now some degree of continuity is crucial to ensure it has a chance to become truly established. Cross-party consensus to retain

LEPs and make them work and a longer-term approach to funding would help in this regard. There also needs to be clarification about the role of the LEPs in relation to other local structures and whether they have a part to play in setting out strategic priorities for an area, while recognising that LEPs may not always be the most appropriate local structure to provide a framework for growth. • Expand the role of the Growing Places Fund in supporting local infrastructure projects The GPF is a highly cost-effective means of enabling developments to proceed whilst providing longterm benefits by recycling funds for other projects as developments are completed. It should be expanded and extended so that it can support additional schemes. The GPF could also be used effectively in combination with other schemes, such as TIF, to produce a beneficial effect disproportionate to the size of the Fund allocation itself. • Improve the effectiveness of the Regional Growth Fund The RGF is one of the cornerstones of the Government’s growth strategy and it is crucial that it operates effectively. In many cases the Fund is being used to support worthwhile projects but a more explicit recognition of the role that development can play in stimulating growth and regeneration could further improve its effectiveness. There should also be a greater role for LEPs in the allocation of funding as they are often best-placed to understand the needs of local businesses and tie investments to local growth strategies. • Implement City Deals in a flexible way City Deals will need to be regularly reviewed to check that they are addressing the right issues and operating effectively. Whilst the ‘deal’ concept may have wider applicability, the special focus on cities as the chief engines of growth must not be diluted. There is a lack of capacity in Government to negotiate deals on a local authority by local authority basis and so more generic offerings may be more feasible to extend devolution, as envisaged by the London Finance Commission. The bigger cities have significant organisational capacity but this is not necessarily true of other areas that may negotiate Deals. • Overcome other barriers to growth

Viability is by no means the only barrier to development. There is still a need for local authorities to be more focussed on economic growth, to produce economic strategies for their areas, and to ensure that they have an up-to-date Local Plan setting out how they will meet their community’s need for homes and jobs. Liz Peace, Chief Executive of the British Property Federation, said: “In challenging circumstances Government has sought to kick start economic growth through a plethora of initiatives. It is right to appraise these to see what is working. Unsurprisingly, the picture is mixed as many of these policies are designed to show results over a number of years, but one consistent aspect of business feedback is that if Government really wants to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, improve infrastructure and build more houses, it has to allow local leaders to make more local decisions. Allowing for more flexibility and freedom within the current structures will allow local places to tailor them to their needs and unlock more development.” Paul Uppal, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Urban Development and the MP for Wolverhampton South West, said: “This Government has aimed to secure the economic future of the UK through pro-growth policies, and by supporting businesses by offering competitive levels of taxation, unlocking investment and financing infrastructure spending. Governments can always learn, and as we look beyond 2015 this report gives a vital insight into what has succeeded and how we can build and improve upon the growth initiatives this Government has put in place.” James Fennell, Managing Director of Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners, said: “The overall findings of the report show that the financial measures and structures put in place by the Government have boosted growth and development. Funding streams such as the Regional Growth Fund and the Growing Places Fund have proved instrumental in getting schemes into delivery across the country. Likewise, the steps taken by Government to devolve more powers to cities have been a success and further work here can help reweight London’s existing economic dominance. The challenge for future governments, as the report clearly demonstrates, is to build upon the encouraging steps that have been taken so far.”

My mood ring was stolen last night. I’m not sure how I feel about it.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

Am I under a duty to provide a collateral warranty? Problem: My Company specialises in groundworks for commercial and industrial building projects. A few months ago, we were invited by a main contractor to tender for carrying out the foundation and external works, and the design and installation of below ground drainage for a new build warehouse in Warwickshire. We duly submitted our price and were successful. Just after starting work on site, the main contractor’s quantity surveyor wrote to us and said that we are required to provide a collateral warranty in favour of the employer, whilst our refusal or failure to do this would result in our monthly payments being withheld. I have re-read the invitation to tender and there is no mention of providing a collateral warranty; I therefore have 2 questions. Firstly, is the main contractor able to withhold payment until we provide a collateral warranty and secondly, does the Company actually need to provide a collateral warranty?

Anthony, Leicester Response: Hello Anthony. Nowadays, it is very common to see a construction project requiring designers and specialist contractors to provide collateral warranties. The reason for their use is that if a building turns out to be defective, the person with an interest in the defective building will find it very difficult to successfully pursue a third party (i.e. a specialist subcontractor that has been directly employed by the main contractor), who is responsible for the defect if they do not have a contractual relationship with them. This is because, someone who is not a party to a contract can only bring an action in the tort of negligence, but recovery of the financial losses (i.e. pure economic loss) are limited, unlike that in an action for damages arising from

under a contract. As the name suggests therefore, the purpose of a collateral warranty is to create a direct contractual relationship that is collateral to the main contract. The invitation to tender may not have mentioned the requirement of providing a collateral warranty, but the document that you must check is the contract / order for your work. Unfortunately, I have clients that come to me after they have signed a contract or received an order and commenced work, and have not checked, or not checked properly the wording in the contract or the order. So for future reference, always carefully check the contract or the order before you sign or commence work or, have a construction lawyer check it out.

Development site for 20 houses in Langley Mill BB&J Commercial Property Consultants are inviting bids for a pair of prominent former car sales sites with planning permission for 20 three-bed houses. The sites - at 35-39 and 44-50 Station Road, Langley Mill, Nottinghamshire NG16 4BH are available freehold with vacant possession. Offers in excess of £475,000 are invited. Offers are to be in writing and sent to BB&J Commercial by 12 noon on 30th January 2015. For more information, contact Christopher Wright at BB&J on 01332 292825 or email: c.wright@bbandj.co.uk

If there is a contract term that requires you to provide a collateral warranty and / or you are to execute the collateral warranty before payment is made, then there is little you can do about it. That said, and providing the collateral warranty, or sample of the collateral warranty has not been included in the contract, you can still negotiate the wording. For example, you should look at limiting the number of warranties that may be required (i.e. just to the employer and no future tenants or purchasers), make sure that the warranty does not include a clause which would otherwise increase your liability under the subcontract and that future assignments are limited and subject to expressed consent. In addition, economic and consequential loss should be excluded or at least restricted, whilst a net contribution / liability cap clause should be included. If on the other hand your contract does not make mention of requiring you to provide for a collateral warranty, then you do not have to, and if the main contractor withholds payment because of your failure or refusal to provide a collateral warranty, you have the Construction Act to fall back, which includes right of suspension and adjudication. © Michael P. Gerard The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

Michael P. Gerard Author background

Michael is a Practising Solicitor, Barrister, Chartered Builder, Registered Construction Adjudicator & Accredited Expert in quantum and planning matters. He is Managing Director of Michael Gerard & Co., and a Consultant Solicitor with Edward Hands & Lewis, based in Leicestershire.

Design award for visitor centre A PRESTIGIOUS architectural awards scheme has chosen Leicester’s King Richard III Visitor Centre as its Large NonResidential Scheme of the year. The £4million visitor centre – commissioned by Leicester City Council – was named as the winner of the category at the ProCon Leicestershire Awards ceremony. Designed by Maber Architects and constructed by Morgan Sindall plc, the centre has already welcomed more than 25,000 visitors since opening to the public in July. The former grammar school on St Martins has been fully renovated, with a new build sensitively incorporating the archaeology of the medieval friary and the grave where the King’s remains were discovered. Locally-sourced materials have been used throughout the scheme, helping to create a high quality environment for visitors. The ProCon Leicestershire Awards take place each year to recognise architectural excellence within Leicester and Leicestershire.

Whenever I go out lately, I’m followed by a bird with long legs. I think I’m being storked.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Everything my girlfriend does is magic, so I had her burnt at the stake.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I met this girl who asked me to paint the town with her. It turned out it was part of her community service.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mortgage Advice Bureau comments on October’s CML gross mortgage lending of £19bn

Plot of land in Houghton on the Hill

Christmas Holidays Hooray! The January issue of Leicestershire Builder will be distributed approximately one week later than usual, on Jan 8th or thereabouts. This is due to the Christmas Holidays clashing with our normal printing period. We’d like to wish all our readers and advertisers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Interesting properties for sale at the W A Barnes Auction The following properties listed in the next W A Barnes Property Auction may appeal to local builders and developers:

Brian Murphy, Head of Lending at Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), comments:“The monthly rise in lending for October shows there’s plenty of life left in the market following the Mortgage Market Review (MMR). “Successive falls in the two previous months were most likely a delayed effect as applications slowed during the switchover. But the signs are that activity is back up and running, with lenders firing on all cylinders to record the second highest monthly lending total of the year. “Anyone currently looking for a mortgage is in the fortunate position of having a choice of low rate products and the reassurance that affordability checks will ensure their finances can stand up to future rate rises. The 0.5% base rate continues to live a charmed existence, and while policy makers are caught up in a game of cat and mouse over the timing of the first rise, there is every chance that product pricing has further to fall – making the outlook even better for borrowers. “The market has been fundamentally reshaped under MMR and the return to growth has meant an especially busy time for brokers, who are increasingly in demand for advice on an unprecedented number of products.* Lenders are becoming more reliant on intermediaries to manage demand in a cost effective way and help match suitable customers to the right offers.”

FOTHERGILL WYATT Estate Agents are offering a unique opportunity to acquire a one acre building plot in a highly sought after rural location. The plot - at Gaulby Lane, Houghton-on-the-Hill, Leicestershire - contains an existing bungalow, former barn, piggery and timber outbuildings. The opportunity is for a self build detached home in a fantastic location with superb countryside views, subject to planning consent. Initial enquiries have been made with Harborough District Council, and the selling agents understand the plot is suitable for a substantial replacement dwelling, designed and built to the owner’s specification. The Guide Price is £350,000. Additional land is available by separate negotiation. For more information, contact Peter Wyatt at Fothergill Wyatt on 0116 270 5900 or visit the website at www.fothergillwyatt.com

Neighbourhood buildings offered to community LEICESTER COMMUNITY and voluntary sector groups are being asked if they would like to take over the lease of various neighbourhood buildings to the west of the city. Following a recent city council consultation, neighbourhood services in the wards of Fosse, Western Park, Westcotes and Braunstone and Rowley Fields are being reorganised. As part of the reorganisation, some buildings will be offered to the community for them to run. They are Braunstone Grove and Braunstone Oak Centre; Cort Crescent Community Centre, Winstanley Community Centre and Newfoundpool Community Centre. Cllr Sarah Russell, assistant city mayor responsible for neighbourhoods in Leicester, said: “After consulting with local people, we know how much they value neighbourhood services. “By offering some of our buildings to the community and voluntary sector to run, we can ensure that the services people value can continue.” Under the scheme – known as community asset transfer – groups would take over the day-to-day running of buildings. West End Neighbourhood Centre has already been transferred to a community group – Leicester Centre for Integrated Living (LCIL) – on a long-term lease. Cllr Russell added: “We’ve already had expressions of interest from some groups to run these buildings. Now we’re asking anyone else who might be interested to come forward too, so that we can make sure anybody who is interested has the opportunity to talk to us.” To express an interest, groups can also phone 0116 454 2125 or email eddie.beilby@leicester.gov.uk The deadline to express an interest is 12 December.

• LOT 5: Plot adjacent to Hill Crest, Terrace Lane, Pleasley, Notts. NG19 7PU - A levelled building plot in a mature, non-estate setting. Outline Planning for one dwelling. Plot size: 9.35m wide by 23m deep. Guide Price: Around £30,000 • LOT 12: 11 Bridge Street, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1AL Per instructions of Mansfield District Council. Three storey commercial premises. Former living accommodation on upper two floors, and further large attic bedroom on second floor. In need of modernisation and repair. Previously let at £6,500 per annum. Guide Price: Around £50,000. • LOT 13: 132 Leeming Lane South, Mansfield Woodhouse, Notts. NG19 9BE - Per instructions of Mansfield District Council. Well-proportioned two storey semi-detached house in poor condition, requiring general modernisation and improvement. Guide Price: Declared Reserve £30,000. • LOT 14: 48 Wood Lane, Church Warsop, Notts. NG20 0SR - Per instructions of Mansfield District Council. Well-proportioned two storey end terrace house in very poor condition, requiring full modernisation and upgrading. Guide Price: Declared Reserve £25,000. • LOT 15: 24 Moor Street, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5SJ - Per instructions of Mansfield District Council. Small, two-storey end-terraced house in poor condition. Has potential for future renting once upgraded. Guide Price: Declared Reserve £20,000. The auction takes place on Thursday 11th December 2014 at The Towers, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5NG - 3pm start. For more information, contact W A Barnes on 01623 554084 or email: sales@wabarnes.co.uk

I lost my dog, so I put an advert in the paper saying, ‘Here, boy!’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Lancaster Street, Off Green Lane Road – STORAGE UNIT

Gedding Road, Off St Saviours Road – RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

Loughborough Road, Birstall – RESIDENTIAL

· Storage Unit · Located within residential area · Total net internal area = 1,094 sq ft (101.64 sq m) approx. · Est. Rental Income: £450.00 p.c.m (£5,400 per annum) (9% Yield) · Ideal for rental investors & owner occupiers. Guide price £55,000 to £65,000

· Two bedroom first floor flat · Within block of flats · Let on an assured shorthold tenancy · Rental income: £355 p.c.m (£4,260 pa) · Est. Full Rental income: £525 p.c.m (£6,300 pa) · Ideal for rental investors Guide price £75,000+

· Three bedroom semi-detached property · Three storey · Gas central heating & double glazing · Est. full rental income £595.00 p.c.m (£7,140 p.a) · Previously marketed at £145,000 Guide price £115,000 - £125,000

Norman Street, Off Narborough Road - RESIDENTIAL

Cavendish Road, Off Aylestone Road – DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

· Three bedroom terrace property · In need of refurbishment · Within walking distance of De Montfort University & Leicester Royal Infirmary · Ideal to let to students Guide price £75,000+

· Residential development opportunity · Two storey building · P/P granted for 2x1 bed flats & 1x2 bed flat · Est. full rental income (AFTER WORKS): £1,550 p.c.m (£18,600 per annum) · Ideal for developers Guide price £100,000 - £120,000

Gedding Road, Off St Saviours Road – RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

Downham Avenue, Off Abbey Lane – RESIDENTIAL

Cottesmore Road, Off Uppingham Road – RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

· Two bedroom semi-detached property · Gas central heating & double glazing · Currently let on an A.S.T · Current full rental income £500.00 every four weeks (£6,500 p.a) · Ideal for rental investors Guide price £115,000+

Naseby Road, Off Gipsy Lane – RESIDENTIAL

· Two bedroom ground floor flat · Located within popular residential location · Let on an assured shorthold tenancy · Rental income: £350 p.c.m (£4,200 pa) · Est. Full Rental income: £525 p.c.m (£6,300 pa) Guide price £75,000+

Three bedroom semi-detached property · Popular residential location · Gas central heating & double glazing · Est. full rental income £575.00 p.c.m (£6,900 p.a) · Previously marketed at £135,000 Guide price £100,000 - £115,000

· Two bedroom detached bungalow · Having gas central heating & double glazing · Large rear garden · Est. full rental income £595.00 p.c.m (£7,140 p.a) · Ideal for owner occupiers, rental investors or first time buyers Guide price £125,000+

My grandad’s joined a rambling group. It takes them ages to finish a story.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Property Auction on Wednesday 10th December 2014 at 5pm

At: Leicester City Football Club, The King Power Stadium, The Gallery, Filbert Way, Leicester LE2 7FL Imperial Avenue, Off Narborough Road – RESIDENTIAL

Sibson Road, Birstall – FREEHOLD INVESTMENT ·

· Three bedroom semi detached property · Having driveway & garage · Est. full rental income £700.00 p.c.m (£8,400 p.a) · Maybe suitable for alternative uses subject to P/P · Previously marketed at £184,950 Guide price £145,000 - £155,000

Canal Street, South Wigston – INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

· Currently split into eight lettable rooms · Walking distance of South Wigston Town Centre · Est. full rental income £31,200 p.a – 17% net initial yield · Potential development opportunity subject to obtaining P/P · Previously marketed at £250,000 Guide price £180,000 - £200,000

Modern development in Birstall Town Centre · Retail, residential, workshops, offices & garage accommodation · Estimated full rental income = £31,721.08 (10% Net Initial Yield) · Excellent investment opportunity Guide price £325,000

Braunstone Lane, Off Narborough Road South - RESIDENTIAL ·

Two bedroom mid town house · Close to Fosse Shopping Park & Motorway Networks · Having gas central heating & double glazing · Front & rear gardens · Est. rental income: £575 p.c.m (£6,900 pa) Guide price £90,000 - £100,000

To request an auction catalogue or to arrange any viewings, contact: Shonki Bros Estate Agents, 95 Narborough Road, Leicester, LE3 0PA Tel: 0116 255 7573 Web: www. shonkibros.com Email: info@ shonkibros.com

I hurt my back today. I was playing piggy-back with my six-year old nephew and I fell off.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Hinckley

Construction begins on The Crescent

New-build student investment in Nottingham

December 2014

Thursday 4 December 2014 -COTTONS - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@cottons.co.uk

Progress on The Crescent, Hinckley’s new multi million pound retail and cinema development set to transform Hinckley Town Centre, reached a new milestone this week as construction began. The new Sainsbury’s store and integrated car park is just one element of a major redevelopment of Hinckley Town Centre that will also feature a five screen multiplex Cineworld cinema along with new shops and family restaurants when it opens next autumn. The contractor appointed by the Tin Hat Regeneration Partnership to carry out the works, Bowmer and Kirkland, has been working on the site since the summer, clearing buildings and completing ground works and is now starting the construction phase of the works.

Development Property IN BRIEF

Nuneaton site for 11 units CARTWRIGHT HANDS are offering for sale a 0.69 acre site with Outline Planning Permission for 6 houses and 5 bungalows. The site - at Former Crossing Gates, 102 Oaston Road, Nuneaton, Warks. CV11 6LA - is level, largely rectangular and has a small industrial building on it. Guide Price: £350,000. Contact Cartwright Hands on 024 7635 0700 or email: sales@ cartwrighthands.co.uk

Whitwick plot FOSTER CORLEY are asking £100,000 for a building plot at Church Lane, Whitwick, Leics. Outline Planning was granted on 15/06/2012 for the erection of one two storey dwelling. (Application Ref: 12/00136/out). Total plot extending to approximately 1/2 acre (sts). Enjoying delightful views to the rear. For more information, contact Foster Corley on 01530 812001 or email: coalville@fostercorley.co.uk.

Auction Diary Thursday 4 December 2014 - SAVILLS - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8080 - www.savills. co.uk/auctions

HEB Chartered Surveyors are offering for sale a new development comprising a terrace of 6 student houses at Kilbourn Street, Nottingham NG3 1BQ. Each of the four-bedroomed houses is available at £225,000, or the whole terrace is available at a price of £1.2 million. Completion of the buildings is due in July 2015. The Vendor will provide a rental guarantee for the 2015/2016 academic year of £4,950 per bed space , equating to £99 per week, on a 50-week letting on an all-inclusive basis. Each property will be generating a minimum gross rental of £19,800 per annum. The houses will be fitted to an extremely high specification to include en-suite bathroom, washing machine, dishwasher, oven hob, tv, broadband and gas central heating. The price at £225,000 reflects a gross yield of 8.56% after purchaser’s costs of 2.8%. For more information, contact Matt Cullen at HEB on 0115 979 3493 or email: mcullen@heb.co.uk

Friday 5 December 2014 - GRAHAM PENNY - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham - 11.30am start - tel: 0115 958 8702 - www. grahampenny.com Wednesday 10th December 2014 SHONKI BROTHERS - at King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester - 5pm start - tel: 0116 255 7573 email: info@shonkibros.com Thursday 11 December 2014 GRAHAM PENNY - at the Ipro Stadium, Derby - 11.30am start - tel: 01332 242880 - www. grahampenny.com Thursday 11th December 2014 W A BARNES - 3pm start - at The Towers, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 5NG tel: 01623 554084 www.wabarnes.co.uk Thursday 11 December 2014 AUCTION HOUSE LEICESTERSHIRE - 6pm start - at The Shuttle Suite, The National Space Centre, Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NS - www.auctionhouse.uk.net

Next Year 2015 Thursday 29 January 2015 - SAVILLS - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8080 - www.savills. co.uk/auctions Tuesday 24 February 2015 COTTONS - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@cottons.co.uk Thursday 26 March 2015 - SAVILLS - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8080 - www.savills.co.uk/auctions

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Sitting in front of a roaring fire, I thought to myself: Lions don’t burn as well as logs.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Over £300k to be spent on Development site for local community following 5 detached houses in planning consent Ullesthorpe MORE than £300,000 will be allocated to support local projects such as schooling and bus travel in Higham on the Hill in Leicestershire, thanks to Vale View, the latest new homes development from David Wilson Homes. The funding, which totals £314,249.81, comes as part of the planning agreement with the village’s local planning authority, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, to support community investment for new and existing residents. The cash will help provide such things as public open space, infrastructural improvements and contributions towards primary and secondary educational facilities, as well as many other projects. Specific contributions include: • Primary school education: £76,465.74 • Secondary school education: £76,867.53 • Upper school education: £78,927.19 • Off-site open spaces: £79,016.80 • Travel packs: £2,272.55 • Bus pass contribution: £700.00 Vale View is an exclusive development coming soon to the tranquil southLeicestershire village of Higham on the Hill. Bordering beautiful open countryside, and just a short drive from Hinckley town centre with a range of local amenities, it is ideal for couples and families of all sizes.

Andrew Granger & Co are offering for sale a residential development site with planning permission for five detached houses. The 0.45 acre site - at The Former Crown Inn, Main Street, Ullesthorpe, Leics. LE17 5AB - is approximately rectangular in shape, and is divided into two areas, both of which front onto Main Street. The proposed houses, all of which will be in excess of 2,000 sq.feet, will each have double garages. The land is offered for sale with vacant possession upon completion.There is no CIL payment due, or Section 106 Agreement or Affordable Housing Provision. The Price Guide is £600,000. For more information, contact Andrew Granger & Co. on 01858 431315 or email: sales@andrewgranger.co.uk

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They demolished my local Dominoes Pizza today, and all the other shops in the street fell down.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Gabby in the running for Apprentice of the Year Award An apprentice involved in the organisation of North West Leicestershire District Council’s major housing improvement programme is in the running for a national award. Lovell apprentice business administrator Gabby Iandico has been shortlisted for the title of Apprentice of the Year in the 2014 Builder & Engineer Awards which celebrate the construction industry’s highest achievers and are set to be announced at an awards ceremony. The 20-year-old plays a key role in the smooth running of the extensive modernisation work which regeneration specialist Lovell is carrying out for North West Leicestershire District Council. The large-scale home repair and replacement works for council properties in the area include the installation new kitchens and bathrooms, boiler and central heating upgrades, new doors and windows and rewiring. Gabby says: “I work hard to ensure that the work goes to schedule and targets are met. I love the variety; no two days are the same which keeps me on my toes. Most of all I really enjoy the fact that we are making a difference to people’s lives. It’s great to know that I am part of a team giving people nicer, warmer and safer homes to live in – that’s the icing on the cake!”

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I no longer see my wife and kids, and it’s all because of gambling. I won loads of money and moved to Spain.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

NHBC Foundation publishes invaluable new guidance on meeting challenges of Part L With the zero carbon standard for new homes just two years away, house builders are ever-more focused on achieving energy efficiency. The next step in the journey was set with the latest changes to Part L issued by Government earlier in the year as the 2013 edition of Approved Document L1A, which sets rigorous energy standards for new homes in England. Complying with Part L – conservation of fuel and power in new dwellings – is one of the most complex challenges faced by the house-building industry, so today the NHBC Foundation is publishing two new guides to help house builders and designers understand what is now needed. The guides, which build on NHBC Foundation guidance first published in 2011, cover the two most common forms of construction – masonry and timber frame. New in these guides is greater detail on the topic of thermal bridging, such as the heat loss which occurs which occurs around window openings and at the junctions between building elements. As a first stage in the design process, house builders and designers must now decide how to deal with thermal bridging, before other specification choices can be made in relation to insulation, airtightness, services and renewables. In the foreword to the report, Stephen Williams MP, Minister for Communities, commented: “The Government recognises the technical challenges that builders face in this area, which is why these publications from the National House-Building Council are to be welcomed.” Neil Smith, Head of Research and Innovation, NHBC, said: “The guides provide a useful starting point for designing new homes to Part L 2013. Many in the industry struggle to get to grips with the complexities of Part L and we hope these new, clear and simple guides help will help to build an understanding. “Presented mainly as tables and construction details, this guidance should be of particular use to smaller firms who may not be as aware of the range of options available to them to satisfy Part L.” To read and download the guides, please visit www.nhbcfoundation.org/partL2013

Always use a contract

Don’t be scared of your builder, says FMB Home owners who fear being ripped off by their builder should insist on a written contract, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). The FMB’s warning call comes in support of Trading Standard’s latest initiative to protect people from rogue traders as part of National Consumer Week. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Our own research shows that 55% of home owners fear being ripped off by their builder but if consumers follow a few simple steps, they need not worry. “Always insist on having a written quote and contract in place before work begins so both parties know what is expected of them. All FMB members can provide their customers with a free written contract as standard and can also offer a warranty on their work once it’s completed.” Berry concluded: “Home owners should also be wary of builders falsely claiming to be a member of a reputable trade association such as the FMB. The FMB logo stands for quality which means not just any firm can join. “All new members are inspected and must pass a number of checks in order to be accepted in to membership. We would encourage anyone who has doubts about a builder’s FMB membership to visit www.fmb.org.uk to check their status, and to report anyone using the FMB logo fraudulently.”

In future, I dating girls on Amazon, because they’ll be sure to recommend other girls I might like.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Housing Minister praises success of Westleigh’s timber framing firm Housing Minister Brandon Lewis has welcomed the expansion of leading developer Westleigh’s timber framing division, where business is booming thanks to renewed demand for house building. The Minister visited the new 20,000 sq ft Westframe facility based at Fosse Way Industrial Estate in Narborough to officially open it. The timber manufacturing division of Whestone-based Westleigh has taken on the new premises in order to increase production to meet the growth plans of Westleigh Partnership Homes over the next three years. The premises are more than twice From left (front row), Councillor Ernie White of Blaby District Council, the size of Westframe’s former base in Chief Executive of Westleigh Chris Beighton, Housing Minister Brandon Lewis, General Enderby, and as a result, the expansion Manager of Westframe Dave Thacker, Chief Executive of Blaby District Council has allowed the company to create 45 Sandra Whiles and MP for South Leicestershire Andrew Robathan. new jobs. New staff will be recruited over the next 12 months from the Leicestershire area with training and on-going support provided to all employees. The move follows the biggest surge in house building Westleigh has seen for more than a decade, in large part due to the various government initiatives to support first time buyers and affordable homes building programmes. Westleigh is therefore forecasting to build in excess of 3,000 homes over the next three year period. The new premises will allow Westframe, which has an annual turnover of about £6 million, to produce over 3,000 linear metres of timber panels per week, which is the equivalent to building 36 properties a week. This compares to an average of 1,740 metres which the company was producing at its former factory site in Enderby. Chris Beighton, Managing Director of Westleigh, commented, “It was an honour to welcome Housing Minister Brandon Lewis to cut the ribbon on our new Westframe manufacturing facility and to give him the chance to see the positive impact our timber framing solutions are having in supporting local affordable house building projects.”

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Tel: 0116 2853 777 Leema Technologies Limited. The Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL I’m leaving my girlfriend because of her obsession with the Temptations. Or is it just my imagination?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Convent site transformed Properties for sale at the into 29 affordable homes next Savills Auction The following interesting properties are being offered for sale at the next Savills Property Auction on Thursday 4th December 2014 at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE – 2.30pm start: • LOT 1: Former Social Services Family Centre, Byron Street, Shirebrook, Nr Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG20 8PJ

Raglan Housing has opened Convent Drive, a smart new £3.7 million development of 29 affordable homes on the former site of St Martin’s Convent in Stoke Golding. The eight-acre convent site behind St Martin’s Academy has been transformed into an attractive mix of 21 energy-efficient rented homes and eight shared ownership homes for local people with a connection to the area. The rental properties provide 14 two-bedroom houses, five three-bedroom houses and two four-bedroom larger family detached properties. Raglan worked with the local Parish Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, the HCA and Mar City, to deliver the scheme which features a community orchard and allotments which the housing association helped design and plant with the community. Raglan also provided a composting toilet for the allotment users. Raglan commissioned local

New Raglan affordable housing development Convent Drive opens in Stoke Golding: (Front row from L-R) Doreen Rose, Stoke Golding Allotment Society; John Weguelin, Raglan Board member; Michael Mullaney (cutting ribbon), Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council Executive Member for Housing; Tony Ryan, CEO, Mar City; Stoke Golding Parish Councillors Reg Ward and Rodney Brown; Sue Cooper, Raglan Neighbourhood Services Director. willow sculptor Tom Hare to create a willow apple sculpture for the community orchard. Raglan forward-funded the scheme which also received £250,000 grant funding support from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). Convent Drive in one of three affordable schemes Raglan is delivering in the Borough. The association is working on a 13home development in Burbage and 18 new properties in Hinckley.

Buildings make way for Haymarket bus station work A BLOCK of six former shops is set to be demolished as site preparations for the construction of Leicester’s new Haymarket bus station continue. Demolition contractors are set to bring down the small block of vacant buildings on the corner of Charles Street and Belgrave Gate. The work is being carried out by demolition experts Windmill Group, and is due be completed by mid-December. Internal clearance work has already been completed. Construction work on the new Haymarket bus station, which will extend into the area created by the demolition of these buildings, will begin in January 2015. TThe new bus station should be operational by December 2015. For more information visit www.leicester.gov.uk/haymarketbusstation

Originally a fire station building converted for use by the County Council in more recent times as a Social Services Family Centre, suitable for a variety of uses (subject to planning). Guide Price: £60,000+ • LOT 3: Cox’s Water Tower, Cox’s Hill, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 1HH

A superb ‘Grand Designs’ type development opportunity. Occupying a one acre site in an uphill area of the town is this Grade II listed four storey former water tower. Planning permission for the conversion of the existing water tower to one dwelling and the erection of two further detached dwellings. Guide Price: £125,000 to £150,000 • LOT 20: Former Orchard Medical Practice, Inisdoon, 1 Crow Hill Drive, Chesterfield Road South, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG19 7AE

A substantial detached Grade II* Listed former Medical Practice occupying a prominent corner site of 0.834 acres opposite Tesco Supermarket and within walking distance of the Market Place. Guide Price: £450,000+

• LOT 24: Former Eden Grove Special School, Bolton Village, Appleby-in-Westmoreland, Cumbria, CA16 6AJ

Freehold vacant former Special Needs School and Children’s Home comprising a variety of buildings totalling circa 44,413 sq ft on a site of 20.95 acres (8.95 hectares). Includes a modern education and training centre set within attractive gardens, playing field and all weather sports pitch. Guide Price: £1,250,000 to £1,500,000 • LOT 26: Former Penman Spicer Community Hall, Park Lane, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 0PT

An opportunity to acquire a former community hall building in this attractive market town. Potential redevelopment opportunity (subject to planning). Guide Price: £150,000 LOT 33: The former site of The Plumptre Almshouses/ Pemberton Street Car Park, Canal Street, Nottingham A unique opportunity to acquire a cleared city centre site located by the historical Lace Market in Nottingham city centre. Guide Price: £150,000+ For more details, contact Savills on 0115 934 8080 or visit www. savills.co.uk/auctions

I was listening to the radio the other day and I thought; ‘Why do all these old bands keep copying Glee songs?’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Work begins on new homes in East Leake CONSTRUCTION work has begun at Barratt Homes North Midlands’ latest new development, which will provide 170 new homes to the village of East Leake near Loughborough. Located on Lantern Lane in East Leake, the new development, named Lantern Fields, will feature a broad range of energy-efficient two, three, four and five bedroom homes. A number of homes will be released for sale at a special launch event on Thursday 27th November and the developer is encouraging prospective homebuyers to register their interest online a soon as possible to receive an exclusive invitation to the event. John Dillon, Managing Director of Barratt Homes North Midlands, said, “We are very excited to announce that work has started at our Lantern Fields development and we look forward to inviting new homebuyers to our launch event on Thursday (27th November).” The company will also be contributing more than half a million pounds to local projects, including education, healthcare, recreation and transport, through section 106 agreements. John continued, “As a company we strongly believe that community investment is one of the most important aspects of any new housing scheme and to that end we plan to contribute a great deal to the local community of East Leake, both in terms of the high-quality homes we will be building and the jobs we will be creating.” Located in the tranquil village of East Leake and surrounded by open fields, but not too far away from the larger town of Loughborough and the cities of Nottingham and Leicester, Lantern Fields Contracts Manager Dave Clarke (L) with Lantern Fields offers the best of both worlds. Site Manager Joe Barlow (R), cutting the sod to the ground Featuring plenty of green open space, with local amenities, excellent schools and great which will see 170 homes built over the next few years. commuter links nearby, it is perfectly suited to families and young professionals alike. A leader in popular home design, Barratt Homes prides itself on creating exceptional homes for all and recently achieved the maximum five star rating in a customer satisfaction survey ran by the Home Builders Federation.

Pork Pie Library to get facelift A CITY library will close while improvements are carried out that will allow it to provide more facilities for the community. Southfields Library, also known as the ‘Pork Pie’ library, in Southfields Drive, will close on Monday 1 December to allow an extensive programme of refurbishment and improvements to be carried out. As well as refurbishing the Pork Pie Library, the theatre area at the back of the building will be restored, while other rooms will be developed for community use.

JOB VACANCY

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Detached house with barn in 0.8 of an acre Andrew Granger & Co are offering for sale Broadview, Stockerston Road, Great Easton, Leicestershire, LE16 8DG. The property comprises a large recently built detached brick and oak clad barn measuring 30’ x 26’ with planning permission for use as a garage and workshop, with adjacent detached family house, gardens and paddock land extending to approx.0.8 acres. The property occupies an idyllic rural setting close to Eyebrook Reservoir lying close to the picturesque towns of Uppingham and Market Harborough. An ideal opportunity to work from home, subject to planning. Price Guide £565,000. For more information, contact Andrew Granger & Co on 01858 431315.

Please Contact: Williams Homes 33 Leicester Road, Anstey, LE7 7AT Tel: 0116 2352221 sales@williamshomes.co.uk

Quality houses

Individual homes Surely after all these years they can just call it Zealand now.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Leicester City Mrs Hussein (c/o Agent: Cliffords Surveyors Ltd, 7 Beacon Avenue, Quorn, Leics. LE12 8HZ) – Change of use from single house to 2 houses – at 25 Wakerley Road, Leicester. Mr James Stafford (c/o Agent: Ink/Drawn Ltd, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) - Change of use of day nursery to one self-contained flat and 5 studio flats. Erection of two storey detached building to provide 8 self-contained flats – at 25 Lansdowne Road, Leicester. Bradgate Estates Ltd (c/o Agent: Ink/Drawn, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – First and second florr extension at rear to form 2 studio flats – at 25 East Bond Street, Leicester. Mr Parmjit Singh (c/o Agent: Master Plan Design Solutions, 23 Vulcan House, Vulcan Road, Leicester LE5 3EF) – Change of use of first and second floor from financial and professional offices to 4 self-contained flats – at 11 Bowling Green Street, Leicester. Chartwell Trust Care (c/o Agent: Architects LE1, 38 Nelson Street, Leicester LE1 7BA) – Change of use from place of worship to offices; extensions to front and rear – at Former St Paul’s Church, Kirby Road, Leicester. Blue Pyramid Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Brian Barber Associates, The Granary, Spring Hill Office Park, Harborough Road, Pitsford, Northants. NN6 9AA) – First floor extension to side of bar/restaurant – at 35 Braunstone Gate, Leicester. Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Atkins, Broadgate House, Broadgate, Nottingham NG9 2HF) – Single storey extension to school – at Linden Primary School, Headland Road, Leicester. Primus Edge Ltd (c/o Agent: Formroom Architects, 7 Constance Street, Knott Hill, Manchester M15 4JQ) – Demolition of existing buildings and erection of new 8/9 storey building for student accommodation comprising 159 studio flats – at 9 Jarrom Street, Leicester. Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Miss Yasmin Nally, Atkins, Broadgate House, Broadgate, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2HF) – Single storey xtension and alterations to rear of school – at Woodstock Primary School, Hattern Avenue, Leicester.

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Tony Bingham Tells Industry To “Get Real, Stop Moaning And Make Friends With Reality” Barrister, Arbitrator and Columnist, Tony Bingham explained that the construction industry must ‘face reality’ and find a ‘common purpose’ in his JCT Povey Lecture, delivered on Thursday 13 November 2014. Tony’s lecture drew on his vast experience of working as an arbitrator to comment on what it is about the construction industry - in terms of the use of contracts, the relationships between parties and different specialists, and the construction process, that can be prohibitive to a collaborative, efficient and profitable industry. Applying his trademark irreverent, provocative and entertaining style, Tony’s somewhat tongue-in-cheek criticism of the industry nevertheless highlighted some serious points about the proliferation and complexity of construction contracts which, he stated, undermines their ability to be understood and used as practical tools. In addition, he pointed towards the attribution of risk on a project, and not allowing different disciplines on a project to do the job they are trained for (e.g. architects being responsible for design, builders being responsible for building), as major barriers to achieving a common goal - creating successful buildings and allowing profit to be made. “I want us to use our insight into our construction world to come clean about how and why we do things...let’s get real, face reality, stop moaning and make friends with reality. “Ever since coming to this industry as a young man, I have heard “Teamwork, collaboration, co-operation, partnering, working together” is the key to good construction. I believe it. Damned if I see it happening any more now, than then. Every day I decide disputes, I witness antagonism, conflict and partisanship. “And I believe in this: Most people in our industry want to co-operate, want to be friends of the building. But the human being hovers between co-operation and conflict. We co-operate conditionally...we will share, even with a stranger, yet, when that trust evaporates, each of us is primed to revert to conflict, lest we are bettered by the other. “We must find profit in the common purpose; design the project before beginning the work; place the work at realistic prices; adopt the payment concordat; oust the partisanship in certifying extension of time, payments and more; treasure trust.” Tony Bingham’s full povey lecture notes can be downloaded from the JCT website. A full and highlighted video will follow soon: http://www.jctltd.co.uk/povey-lecture.aspx.

Offers invited for development site in Bagworth MATHER JAMIE Chartered Surveyors are offering for sale a 0.637 acre development site with detailed planning consent for 6 houses, 2 maisonettes and a retail store. The site - at Station Road, Bagworth, Leicestershire LE67 1BJ - was granted approval on 1st September 2010, and an extension of time on 4th February 2014, which allows a further three years to commence development. Following discussions with Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, the agents believe that it may be possible to obtain planning consent for 100% residential use. In light of this news, the Vendor is willing to consider offers either with the benefit of the existing planning approval, or conditional upon achieving a revised planning consent. For more information, contact Gary Kirk at Mather Jamie on 01509 233433 or email: gary.kirk@matherjamie.co.uk

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Call 01509 880399 or 07779 305682 Email kevin@castledine.co Website www.castledine.co

I used to be a freelance journalist but I wasn’t very good. Lance is still in prison.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr Ketan Pau (c/o Agent: Ink/ Drawn Ltd, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – Change of use from industrial/warehouse to 20 self-contained flats, and second floor extension at front and threestorey extension at side – at 137 Harrison Road, Leicester.

Interesting properties for sale at the next Cottons Property Auction Several of the lots being offered for sale at the next Cottons Property Auction will be of interest to local builders and property developers. The auction takes place on Thursday 4th December 2014 at Aston Villa Football Club, Villa Park, Birmingham B6 6HE – starting at 11am.

Mr Mukesh Sehgal (c/o Agent: SKM Design, 8 De Montfort Mews, Leicester LE1 7FW) – Part demolition of ground floor function hall, change of use of first floor from function hall to residential, plus second floor extension to form 10 flats – at 148 Melton Road, Leicester LE4 5EE.

Development Property

Mitchian Electrical Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects Ltd, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Change of use from Textiles factory to 8 selfcontained flats, plus dormer windows to front and rear – at 262-264 Western Road, Leicester. East Midlands Reserve Forces & Cadets (c/o Agent: Arch Lodge Project Management Ltd, 12A Market Place, Hornsea, Yorkshire, HU18 4AW) – Single storey detached education and training building – at Hamilton Community College, Keyham Lane West, Leicester. Ramgarhia Board Leicester (c/o Agent: Resolution Planning, Beckett House, 14 Billing Road, Northampton NN1 5AW) – Place of worship – at Colin Grundy Drive, Lower Keyham Lane, Leicester. Mr Taylor (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Ltd, Unit 12 Gower Street, St Matthews Business Centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) – Change of use of ground floor shop and two storey detached building to 2 studio flats and one self-contained flat – at 1 Sylvan Street, Leicester LE3 9GU. Mr Paresh Patel (c/o Agent: Astill Planning Consultants, 12A Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, Leics. LE7 7PR) – Change of use from public house, plus extensions to north and west sides of building to provide 3 units on ground floor for restaurant use and 21 one-bed flats above – at Balmoral Hotel, 190 Belgrave Road, Leicester. Grandeur Capital (c/o Agent: Ink/ Drawn, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – Change of use from houseto 4 flats; two and single storey extensions at rear; demolition of outbuilding at rear; erection of two and a half storey building to rear comprising 8 flats – at 81 Lansdowne Road, Leicester.

More planning applications over the page ...>

IN BRIEF

Plot in Market Harborough Lot 19: Barley Lea House, The Barley Lea, Coventry CV3 1EJ – A substantial two storey detached premises previously used as a neighbourhood office and doctors’ surgery. The property provides potential for conversion into residential flats or studios. The Gross Internal Area equals 5,522 square feet. The Guide Price is £150,000+. Lot 26: Former King William IV Public House, 70 Coton Road, Nuneaton CV11 5TS – A former detached public house laid out over three storeys with off road parking to the rear. The property has Planning Permission granted for a change of use from a public house to 4 self-contained flats. One of the flats has been completed. Guide Price: £155,000 to £165,000. Lot 32: Development Site at Factory Road/ Old Cross Street, Tipton, West Midlands DY4 9AU – A freehold site of 0.94 acres, predominantly fronting Factory Road, with Planning Permission for 14 dwellings. Guide Price: £430,000 to £460,000. For more information about any of these properties, contact Cottons on 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@ cottons.co.uk or visit the website at www.cottons. co.uk

Don’t forget to send us your news! Email your articles to: info@buildermagazines.co.uk

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ADAMS & JONES are asking £79,950 for a building plot at Patrick Street, Market Harborough, Leics. The plot has planning permission for a luxury, tw-bedroomed house in a central Market Harborough location. For more information, contact Adams & Jones on 01858 461888 or visit www.adams-jones.co.uk

Nuneaton plot: £65k LOVEITTS are offering for sale a generous sized building plot with Outline Planning for a single dwelling. The plot - at Salisbury Drive, Rear of Chancery Lane, Nuneaton CV10 0LU - is situated in a cul-de-sac position in an established residential area. The asking price is £65,000. Contact Loveitts on 024 7622 8111 for more details.

Braybrooke site for 14 dwellings CARTER JONAS are asking £750,000 for a development site for 14 dwellings at Church Close, Braybrooke, Near Market Harborough. The planning permission stipulates there to be 10 market houses and 4 shared ownership dwellings. Contact Carter Jonas on 01604 805366 or visit the website at www.landatbraybrooke.com

I’m at the age where I want two women in bed. Then, if I fall asleep, they’ll have someone to talk to.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Alcohol was my father’s answer to everything. He didn’t drink; he was just lousy at quizzes.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Location, Location, Location Apologies to Phil and Kirstie for the headline but it seems location is key to planning decision-making as well.

Crosspatch Ltd (c/o Agent: Kunstler Designs Architect, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RE) – Single storey extension to side of factory – at 47A Copdale Road & 17-23 Elizabeth Street, Leicester. Bradgate Estates Ltd (c/o Agent: Ink/Drawn, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – Change of use of part of ground floor from shop to 2 flats, plus single storey extension to rear – at 25 East Bod Street, Leicester.

Charnwood Borough

FOR SALE - RESidEntiAL dEvELOpmEnt OppORtunity

New Springs City Church (c/o Agent: Heaton Planning Ltd) – Change of use from industrial unit to place of worship – at Unit 4, Belton Road West Extension, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 5XH. LRYSA (c/o Agent: Keith Lynch) – Erection of a Headquarters Building – at Watermead Country Park, Wanlip Road, Syston, Leicestershire. Mr Nigel Harris – Erection of 4 new dwellings in the rear garden curtilage – at 58 Town Green Street, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NW. Mr & Mrs Bowley (c/o Agent: Tenacity Planning Consultants) – Proposed farmhouse and livestock barn – at Mount Pleasant Farm, Paudy Lane, Seagrave, Leics. LE7 4TA.

Blaby District Mr David Clarke (c/o Agent: Isherwood McCann, Rose Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4DP) – Erection of two side extensions to industrial unit – at Unit 18, Highfields Farm Enterprise Centre, Huncote Road, Stoney Stanton, Leics. LE9 4DJ. Mr R Finn (c/o: Finsons Builders Ltd, 88A Footners Lane, Burton, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 7NR) – Erection of 3 detached dwellings (Revised scheme) – at land at Fosse Close, Enderby, Leicester. Mr Karl Smith (c/o Agent: ADM Surveyors, 3A The Parade, Needham Avenue, Glen Parva, Leicester LE2 9JW) – Conversion of existing dwelling to form 2 separate residential units – at 19 Highfield Street, Stoney Stanton, Leics. LE9 4DF.

Planning applications are continued over the page ...>

The Former Avondale Junior School, Laburnham Crescent, Kettering • Approximately 5.87 acres (2.37 hectares) • O utline planning permission subject to the grant of section 106 • 72 dwellings • 30% affordable allocation • Bid deadline 17th December 2014

Northampton 01604 608209 michael.hudson@carterjonas.co.uk carterjonas.co.uk

Leicester’s new Food Park opens for business A SPECIALIST business park for the food and drink industry in Leicester is now open for business and will be welcoming its first tenants within weeks. The £5.8 million Food Park will attract new start-up businesses, provide space for existing food and drink businesses to grow, and create dozens of new jobs. Its three steel-framed buildings – developed close to a business park off Lewisher Road – house nine high-quality units, ranging in size from 1,000 to 5,000 sq ft. Commissioned by Leicester City Council, the Food Park will be managed by the East Midlands Chamber. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Smaller food and drink businesses have been waiting for a specialist facility like this for years so I am very pleased that we have been able to deliver this high-quality scheme. “We want to cement Leicester’s position as a place where food and drink businesses can set up and thrive – and this significant investment will also ensure that dozens of new jobs are created in this part of north-east Leicester.” The East Midlands Food and Drink Forum – a not-for-profit organisation that supports the local food industry – will also be on board, providing technical and business assistance to the Food Park tenants, while working with the council to support the wider food and drink sector across the city. Contractors for the new Food Park were Willmott Dixon, who delivered the £5.8million scheme on time and on budget. The project was financed with £3.4million from the European Regional Development Fund, with the city council contributing a further £2.4million. • The scheme is part of the City Mayor’s plans to develop four key business investment areas in the city. While the Food Park will help accelerate growth in food and drink manufacturing, the City Mayor also wants to develop the creative industries in St George’s Cultural Quarter, retail, commercial and business support service in Leicester city centre, and innovation and technology at Abbey Meadows.

This is aptly demonstrated by a case where Landmark Planning were appointed by Harborough District Council to act for them in an appeal against a refusal of a gypsy application near Claybrooke Parva. The refusal followed a ‘members overturn’ where the elected Councillors on the Planning Committee rejected their officers recommendation for approval. Lance Wiggins, Associate Director at Landmark Planning, a former Development Control Manager at Harborough, took on the job. As part of the written statement he prepared prior to the appeal hearing, he commented that ‘the proposal, even when balanced against other material considerations such as the need to ensure an adequate supply of sites for gypsies and travellers, would be contrary to the aims of the relevant adopted Core Strategy policy and that it would be harmful to the character and appearance of the countryside’. The inspector appointed to determine the appeal agreed, concluding that the appeal site was within an ‘intrinsically attractive piece of open countryside where policy dictates that development should be controlled strictly’. Whether or not a proposal can be considered to constitute ‘sustainable development’ is an important factor in development management and in this case the inspector decided that because of its potentially damaging impact on countryside conservation it could not considered to be sustainable. The decision was taken against a backdrop of a changing attitude towards gypsies and travellers following a consultation exercise that proposed restricting their ability to develop new residential sites. This appeal decision potentially has implications for other types of development, including residential sites that seek to meet a deficiency in the supply of available housing land in an area, as the location of the site in open countryside was considered foremost in the inspector’s thinking in determining the appeal. I have to say the last used car salesman I dealt with was a bit on the aggressive side. But after I bought the car he did release my wife and kids.

I hate being the only drunk person at a party. It totally ruined my son’s fifth birthday.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Häfele Cleans Up With Sweepovac Launch Mr J Magnor (c/o Agent: Malcolm Goodall, The Drawing Room, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings – at land to rear of 1 Starmer Close, Cosby, Leicester LE9 1SL. EMH Homes (c/o Agent: KPW Architects, 170 Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QA) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at land to the north of 17 Livesey Drive, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4LP. Mr F Edge (c/o Agent: Peter Thompson ADT, 49 Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6QE) – Erection of one pair of semi-detached dormer bungalows and a detached double garage – at land north of 27 Halls Crescent, Sharnford, Leics. LE10 3PL. Mr F Edge (c/o Agent: Peter Thompson ADT, 49 Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6QE) – Erection of one pair of semi-detached dormer bungalows – at land south of 5 Halls Crescent, Sharnford, Leics. LE10 3PL. Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd (c/o Agent: Savills, Wytham Court, 11 West Way, Oxford OX2 0QL) – Residential development for 31 dwellings – at land to the west of Beggars Lane, Leicester Forest East, Leicester.

Rutland County Larkfleet Homes (c/o Agent: Mike Jones, DLP Planning Ltd, 4 Abbey Court, Fraser Road, Priory Business Park, Bedford MK44 3WH) New development of 79 residential units with associated landscaping, access and parking – at land adjacent to Ayston Road, Uppingham, Rutland. Mr Barrie Mohammed (c/o Agent: Simon Ball, Orwin & Ball Ltd, 34 Bakewell Mews, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8TU) – Provision of a small commercial business unit – at land adjacent to Greetham Wood, Greetham Inn Lane, Greetham, Rutland. Mrs Jean Gill (c/o Agent: Jennifer Thomas Consultancy Ltd, Edelweiss Lodge, Suttons Lane, Deeping Gate, Peterborough PE6 9AA) – Demolition of bungalow & outbuildings and replacement with 2 four-bed detached dwellings – at The Homestead, Littleworth Lane, Belton in Rutland, Oakham, Rutland LE15 9JZ.

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Premium home solutions specialist Häfele UK has launched an exclusive new partnership with household appliance specialist Sweepovac, as it looks to launch its vacuum product into the UK market. The quality compact vacuum from Sweepovac can be retrofitted into the plinth or kick board of a kitchen making it perfect for new kitchen developments and updates. With a selfcontained anti-bacterial vacuum bag and a two year guarantee, Sweepovac is an exciting kitchen innovation. Häfele UK is the sole distributor of Sweepovac in the UK and a unique solution available to trade professions via the specialist’s three easy ways to buy; at Häfele-approved trade counters, over the phone and online. Kerry Baulch, Head of Product Management at Häfele UK said: “At Häfele we’re committed to providing trade professionals with the latest products and best brands for their projects. Sweepovac is the newest addition to our 25,000-strong product offering.” Henry Fingleton, inventor of the Sweepovac, said: “When we were offered an exclusive partnership with Häfele UK, we jumped at the chance to be associated with the premium brand. Our invention has proved successful in Ireland and we felt ready to bring Sweepovac to the UK market and are overjoyed to have the backing of such an established distributor. “There are a huge amount of people that have mobility issues, pets and children who want a quick and easy way of keeping their kitchen tidy without the stress and strain of using a standing vacuum or dustpan every day - and Sweepovac is the perfect Sweepovac, RRP from £100 (black/white plastic) solution for this.” Model shown: stainless steel RRP £140 To more information about Häfele and to find your local trade distributor visit www.hafele.co.uk or facebook.com/HafeleUKLtd. For more information about becoming a Häfeleapproved studio partner or trade distributor email Jodi.Garrett@hafele.co.uk

Mortgage Advice Bureau comments on the Bank of England’s November Inflation Report Brian Murphy, Head of Lending at Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), comments: “Although less positive news for savers, many mortgage borrowers stand to benefit from a delayed Bank Rate rise. “Consumers are currently enjoying historically low mortgage rates, and the news that the Bank Rate is not expected to rise until autumn 2015 gives homeowners on variable deals an extended window of low monthly repayments. Combine this with wage growth finally exceeding inflation, and the picture is starting to look a little brighter for borrowers. “Lending conditions are certainly increasingly favourable. Thanks to fierce competition between lenders – who have regained a healthy appetite for business – there are a record number of products currently available on the market, leaving potential buyers with a whole host of competitively priced mortgages to choose from. “After more than five years with a 0.5% Bank Rate, the eventual rise – when it occurs – may come as a bit of a shock to some, especially those who did not have a mortgage before 2009. However, there is certainly no need for consumers to worry: the Bank of England has made repeated assurances that interest rate rises will be limited and gradual, and the Bank Rate is likely to remain low for some time. Mortgage lenders have long been stress-testing loans to ensure borrowers can afford their repayments both now and in the future, so any increases in monthly mortgage repayments shouldn’t spell financial trouble.”

Lord Byron connection

Former Lodge House at Newstead Abbey to be offered for sale

SAVILLS are offering for sale at their January 2015 auction a truly unique opportunity to acquire a Grade II Listed former lodge house set at the entrance of the internationally remowned Newstead Abbey Park in Nottinghamshire. The property - Hutt (East) Lodge, Newstead Abbey Park, Nottinghamshire NG15 8GD - retains a wealth of charm and character, and is in need of upgrading and modernisation. It offers two bedroom accommodation with lounge, kitchen and shower room. The former home of Lord Byron, Newstead Abbey lies to the north of the county set within extensive mature parkland. For sale by auction (unless sold prior) on 29th January 2015. Guide Price: £180,000. For more information, contact Bob Crocker or Karen Wheatley at Savills on 0115 934 8080.

My girlfriend’s leaving me because I don’t take anything seriously lol

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Selling plots or development properties?

GET A FREE MENTION! We include brief details of development properties free-ofcharge in editorial form. So, if you’re selling an interesting development property, building plot or property for conversion, email details to:

info@buildermagazines.co.uk and we’ll give the property a free mention. Tremendous!

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I went to a garage sale, but when I got there the people didn’t want to sell their garage after all.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Former 12-bedroom retirement home for sale

Andrew Granger & Co are offering for sale a substantial former retirement home with potential for change of use, subject to planning. The property - Beech House, 29 Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7DE - is a 19th Century three storey semi-detached building offering excellent potential located close to the railway station and thriving town centre of Market Harborough. Formerly a 12 bedroomed retirement home with annexe, this unique property offers excellent potential for change of use to apartments, subject to planning. The Price Guide is £425,000 to £450,000. Further details are available from the selling agents, Andrew Granger & Co on 01858 431315.

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in our other mags! In addition to Leicestershire Builder, we also publish TWO local monthly magazines delivered to targeted areas. Groby Spotlight: Groby & Field Head (3,500 copies) The Herald: Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton (4,000 copies) Local magazines, particularly ones containing a lot of local news and information, provide a quick, cost-effective advertising medium for local builders, decorators, roofers, window installers, plumbers, etc.

If you’re interested in advertising in one of our village magazines, please contact Mike on 01530 244069. For advertising rates, or to read the latest issues, visit the websites at: www.grobyspotlight.co.uk or www.markfieldherald.co.uk

LEICESTERSHIRE BUILDER DECEMBER READER OFFER TRY AN ADVERT IN THE HERALD OR GROBY SPOTLIGHT AND GET 25% OFF YOUR FIRST AD! Two women knocked my door and started preaching to me about the virtues of brown bread - they were Hovis Witnesses.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr & Mrs W Adderley (c/o Agent: Ross Thain & Co Ltd, 20 Belton Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2EF) – Demolition of existing extension and associated outbuildings and erection of new extension and garage outbuilding; demolition of 1950’s 4-bed bungalow and erection of replacement 3-bed cottage (Revised re-submission) – at Ashwell House, 2 Oakham Road, Ashwell, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7LW.

Harborough District Premier Mushrooms Ltd (c/o Agent: John Martin & Associates, 10 Church Square, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7NB) – Change of use to include demolition of existing buildings and redevelopment for B2 use (Revised scheme) – at Marigold Farm, Welham Lane, Great Bowden, Leics. LE16 7FN. HFT (c/o Agent: Nigel Simkin, JLL, 45 Church Street, Birmingham B3 2RT) – Erection of up to 27 dwellings – at Self Unlimited East Midlands Region, Melton Road, Shangton, Leics. LE8 0PS Mrs A M Clarke (c/o Agent: Peter Thompson ADT Ltd, Providence House, 49 Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6QE) – Erection of 2 dwellings (Re-submission) – at 36 Dunton Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6NB. Hazelton Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Demolition of two existing dwellings, demolition of existing builders yard and associated outhouses, and erection of 17 dwellings – at 2A Uppingham Road, Houghton on the Hill, Leics. LE7 9HH. RFM Studios CIC (c/o Agent: Msquare Architects Ltd, Leefe House, 27 Abbey Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 9AA) – Erection of new single storey music recording studio building – at The Cube, Symingtons Recreation Ground, St Marys Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7DS. The Co-operative Group (c/o: 1 Angel Square, Manchester M60 0AG) – Prior notification for the conversion of two agricultural buildings to 3 dwellinghouses – at Pennbury Farm, Stretton Road, Great Glen, Leics. LE8 9GP. Mrs & Mrs Suttle & Brooks (c/o Agent: Maurice Brice, 1 Fox End, Thurlaston, Leicester LE9 7TX) – Erection of 3 chalet bungalows (Revised scheme) – at land rear of 118 & 124 Station Road, Broughton Astley, Leics.

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M-ec adds associates to transport and infrastructure teams M-EC, one of the East Midlands’ leading consulting development engineers, has appointed two new associates to lead its transport and infrastructure WELCOME: New recruits (l-r) Craig Perks, associate teams. infrastructure engineer and Andrew Dennison, Andrew Dennison associate transport engineer with (back) M-EC’s joins as associate managing director, Eddie Mewies. transport engineer, where he is responsible for the output of the division, which includes access appraisals, transport assessments and travel plans, together with mentoring the company’s pre-planning apprentice, Danny Hinds. Andrew also acts as the company champion for the CIHT (Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation), meaning he will provide industry feedback, attend events and encourage wider membership. On the infrastructure side of the business, Craig Perks has been appointed as associate infrastructure engineer and will oversee the activities of the nine strong team. Currently working on the company’s major mixed development site in Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire on behalf of David Wilson Homes, Craig is also training first year infrastructure apprentice, Cameron Green. Based in Ibstock, Leicestershire, M-EC now employs 31 people and works nationwide.

Six year high for lease lengths

Optimistic occupiers again taking longer leases Optimism among occupiers of the UK’s shops and offices is growing with new commercial property lease lengths hitting a six-year high, according to new research released by MSCI in November. The IPD UK Lease Events Review, sponsored by the British Property Federation and Strutt and Parker, which analysed over 90,000 leases across the UK, said new property lease lengths rose to 6.8 years in 2014, their highest since 2008. The research showed that landlords were offering occupiers better deals to avoid the risk of empty properties, with 49% of tenants choosing to stay in the same place rather than move – and over three quarters of those staying paying either the same or lower rent. In further good news for the property sector, income lost through insolvencies fell to 4.7%, the lowest since 2010. Overall, the average length of a newly signed lease declined to under six years during the height of the recession, as landlords scrambled to secure tenants. Insolvencies had led to landlords losing 6.2% of their income each year at their peak. But economic improvements – and the ability to lock-in favourable terms are leading to tenants signing up to longer leases. Rental values for commercial property – a further indicator of demand from occupiers – have also risen, by 2.2% in the first three quarters of 2014 – more than double the 0.9% recorded for the entire year of 2013. Rising rents and lease lengths are good news for landlords – who look to commercial real estate for its stable income yields – but they are still offering considerable incentives to tenants in a competitive lettings market. Rent-free periods have risen in length to 10.1 months on average, up from 5.7 months in 2007 - a 43% increase.

Development Property IN BRIEF

Land for 5 dwellings in Newhall

SCARGILL MANN & CO are offering a prime development plot with Outline Planning for 5 dwellings. The land - at the rear of 61 High Street, Newhall, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0HT - measures about half an acre, and has consent for 3 three-storey town houses and 2 two-bed apartments. Offers in the region of £290,000 are invited. Contact: Scargill Mann & Co on 01332 207720 or email: derby@ scargillmann.co.uk

Shuttington semi with building plot MARK EVANS Estate Agents are selling a four-bed semi with a building plot.

The property - Ivyleigh Villas, Church Lane, Shuttington, Tamworth B79 0EB - is situated next to St Matthews Church, on a public footpatch, giving access to outstanding rural walks across open fields. The plot has Outline Planning for a three-bed detached property. Available at a Guide Price of £284,950. Contact: Mark Evans on 01827 311300 or email: info@ markevansestateagents.co.uk.

Site for 15 houses in Stapleford ROBERT ELLIS Estate Agents are offering for sale a development site with Outline Planning for 15 three-storey houses.

The 0.73 acre site is located at Bailey Street, Stapleford, Notts. and currently comprises a large fenced storage yard for commercial vehicles and a brick-built commercial unit. Price on application - contact Robert Ellis on 0115 949 0044 or email: stapleford@robertellis.co.uk They say get your Christmas shopping done early to avoid the rush but this year I did mine a whole 12 months early and the shops were as busy as ever.

Of course I can keep secrets. It’s the people I tell them to who can’t keep them.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Christmas gifts for the architect in your life! Whether you can’t wait for Christmas or you’re a modern day Ebeneezer Scrooge, the time of year has arrived for you to dedicate much of your time – and more often than not, hard earned cash – on deciphering Christmas lists and buying presents for the closest people in your life. In the unfortunate circumstance that one of these people happens to be an architect (or architectural student for that matter!) you know how much of a nightmare this process can be! Architects are seen as elusive, mysterious people; up all hours, talking in technical jargon and with an –bordering on obsessive- eye for detail and quality, which makes buying presents for these characters even harder to buy for. Below, the staff here at Design Studio Architects have put together a list of some of the most interesting and inventive gifts to make Santa that little bit less stressed this Christmas:

Wacom Inkling www.Amazon.com - £94.22

The Wacom Inkling is an amazing little device that you can clip onto a notebook to capture your notes or drawings. This gadget comes with a ballpoint pen (although a very fancy one) that incorperates a digital transmitter which interacts with the base receiver on the paper to record all of your penstrokes. These penstrokes are then converted into a digital linework that can be edited in most editing suites.

Portabee GO www.Portabee3dprinter.com - $595

Introducing the new Portabee digital printer! This 3d printer comes in a small form with an outer of milled aluminium. The most amazing part about this little machine is that it’s completely portable, self – containing and self – levelling! To use, you simply remove it from its cover, twist the arm into position, hand tighten it into place and let it work out the horizontal for itself! No more altering the bed angle and awkward changing and tightening of multiple parts. Its limits are your own creativity!

Leap Motion www.leapmotion.com - £89.99

Ever wanted to feel like Tony Stark? Be able to pick up digital objects in the virtual world with your own physical hands? Or do you just fancy playing virtual tetris? Leap motion has entered V2; with better programming and more fluid application, the Leap Motion tracks your hand

and converts the movement of external objects into digital movement on your computer, this can be used for flying around in google maps or real work implications like handling 3d objects in Autodesk programmes such as Maya.

Magicplan App Android & Apple Appstore – free! http://www.floorplanner.com/magicplan

Magicplan is developing quickly and the idea behind it is a sound one. By standing in the centre of a room and taking photos of the corners and door openings your phone can draw a rough plan of a room in a few minutes. Combined with a laser measurer you can produce incredibly accurate plans in exceptionally quick times.

Ostrichpillow www.Studiobananathings.com £65

You know the scenario: Huge project, no time. The makers of the Ostrichpillow have decided to make your nights in the studio somewhat more comfortable. At the point at which you need to –metaphorically- stick your head in the ground and wish the world away, this gift will be a godsend. With openings for your head and hands, the pillow gives you a place to catch up with some sleep when you don’t have a bed around.

Senz Smart Umbrella www.amazon.com - £24.95

Whether you’re out on a survey or just walking to work; when it starts raining the worst thing that can happen is the wind picking up and breaking your barrier to the elements. The slick Senz umbrella is windproof up to 70mph, will never go in-side out and with strengthened, silver ABS and Evafoam grip, the handle will be as sturdy and the canopy.

Joe Jeacock On behalf of Design Studio Architects www.designstudioarchitects.co.uk

Mr Alan Brown (c/o Agent: Stephen George & Partners, 170 London Road, Leicester LE2 1ND) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at land rear of 13-15 Long Lane, Billesdon, Leics. The Governors of St Mary’s C of E Primary School (c/o Agent: YMD Boon Ltd, York House, Fernie Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7PH) – Erection of single storey extension to provide additional teaching space, staff room and small group room – at St Mary’s C of E Primary School, The Green, Bitteswell, Leics. LE17 4SB. TD Matthews Construction Ltd (c/o Agent: Simon Cheshire Planning, 34 Adrian Drive, Barwell, Leics. LE9 8GA) – Erection of building at Lutterworth Soccer Centre (Revised scheme) – at Lutterworth Soccer Academy, Hall Lane, Bitteswell, Leics. LE17 4LN.

Melton Borough J Hawley & Sons (c/o: Brentingby Hall, Main Road, Brentingby, Leics. LE14 4RX) – New milking parlour – at Brentingby Hall, Main Road, Brentingby, Leics. LE14 4RX. Mr Paul Kenyon (c/o Agent: Blakedown Sport & Play Ltd, Apollo Office Park, Ironston Lane, Wroxton, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX15 6AY) – New educational development comprising multi-purpose buildings, sports hall, new campus access road, associated works and 3G sports pitch – at Brooksby Melton College, Hoby Road, Brooksby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 2LJ. Mr & Mrs Christie (c/o Agent: C.Wilkinson, Planit-X Town and Country Planning Services, Greenways, 21 New Road, Burton Lazars, Leics. LE14 2UU) – Outline application for residential development – at Field Number 4862, Glebe Road, Wymondham, Leics. Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Stephen Mair, Andrew Granger & Co, Phoenix House, 52 High Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7AF) – Construction of 3 detached residential properties – at The Bowery, 2 Church Lane, Wymondham, Leics. LE14 2AG. M Duffin Builders Ltd (c/o Agent: Samantha Griffiths, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Innovation Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Discharge of conditions as required by Application Number 13/00844/FUL – New housing development – at Travis Perkins Trading Co Ltd, 59 Mill Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1BA.

Planning applications are continued on page 42 ...>

I got on the train this morning, and a man was sitting in my seat. I said: ‘Go on, then. You drive the thing!’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I’ve just joined the coastguard. It should be an easy job because who’s going to try to steal the coast?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

I’m going to buy my boss a watch because every day he says to me: ‘What time do you call this?’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

MONOPOLY

Wordsearch Puzzle

Here are the 12 MONOPOLY SQUARES you have to find:

If you can find the names of the first 12 Monopoly Board Game squares in the Wordsearch grid on the right, you could win yourself a VIP Meal For Two at Frankie & Benny’s New York Italian Restaurant. All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - the first 12 squares on the Monopoly Board after ‘Go!’ These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: DOUBLE SIX, Leicestershire Builder, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 20th December 2014. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the Frankie & Benny’s VIP Meal for Two. Good luck!

OLD KENT ROAD • COMMUNITY CHEST • WHITECHAPEL ROAD INCOME TAX • KINGS CROSS STATION • THE ANGEL ISLINGTON CHANCE • EUSTON ROAD • PENTONVILLE ROAD JAIL • PALL MALL • ELECTRIC COMPANY Name: .............................................................................................................. Address: ............................................................................................................. .............................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner:

CATHIE WATKINS of Chapel Street, Barlestone Congratulations! Your Frankie & Benny’s Voucher will be with you soon.

Kettering development site with consent for 6 homes CONNELLS Estate Agents are offering, on behalf of Northamptonshire County Council, a development site in Kettering, which has the benefit of Outline Planning Consent for 6 homes. The property - Meadhurst, 116 Rockingham Road, Kettering, Northants. - is a substantial mature property and was formerly used as a Mental Health Access and Crisis Centre by the Council. The planning has been approved and provides for the conversion of the existing house to provide 2 additional apartments, plus new builds within the plot, all with parking spaces allocated. Offers are invited for the Freehold. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Paul Quelch on 01604 788850 or email paul.quelch@connells.co.uk, or Jeff Servent on 01604 622444 or email jeffrey.servent@connells.co.uk.

At any time, the temptation to sing ‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’ is never more than a whim away.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Hinckley & Bosworth Executors & Trustees of Cynthia Fogerty (c/o Agent: Architects LE1, 38 Nelson Street, Leicester LE1 7BA) – Partial demolition of existing dwelling including proposed extensions and alterations and erection of 2 dwellings – at 20 Rookery Lane, Groby, Leicester LE6 0GL. Mr Gavin Moore (c/o Agent: Varsha Tailor, DT Designs Ltd, 74 Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Demolition of existing building and erection of 3 dwellings (Revised scheme) – at 128 Main Street, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9UX. Mr David Sear-Mayes (c/o Agent: Malcolm Goodall, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Erection of 3 dwellings – at land rear of Coach House Cottage, 1 Workhouse Lane, Burbage, Leics. LE10 3AS. Mr Patrick Goddgen (c/o Agent: Martyn Ball, Affordable Design & Planning, Church View Design Studio, 134A Main Street, Asfordby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 3SA) – Erection of 2 dwellings to replace existing stables – at Upper Grange Farm, 1A Ratby Lane, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9RJ. Springbourne Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: Hayward Architects Ltd, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) – Erection of 24 new dwellings – at land adjacent to Trout Ponds Farm, Twycross Road, Sheepy Magna, Nuneaton, Warks. CV9 3RS. R Singh (c/o: 27-35 Sussex Street, Leicester LE5 3BF) – Demolition of factory and erection of a 12-dwelling apartment block – at 116 High Street, Barwell, Leicester LE9 8DR. Mr B May (c/o Agent: E Jones, MPC, 58 Spon Lane, Grendon, Near Atherstone, Warks. CV9 2PD) – Erection of up to 5 dwellings – at Mayfield, Twycross Road, Sibson, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 6LB. Westmoreland Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning, 1 Meridian South, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE3 2WY) – Erection of Class A1 Retail Development with associated access, servicing, car parking and landscaping – at 3-5 Hawley Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0PR.

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Muv electric wheelbarrow wheels away inefficiency The new MUV Electric Wheelbarrow, or mini-dumper, from Nu-Star Material Handling not only allows operators to transport heavy loads with ease, it eliminates the unnecessary ergonomic challenges and production halts associated with traditional wheelbarrow solutions. Furthermore, the savings made in reduced labour and enhanced efficiency ensure rapid return on investment in sectors that include construction, industrial, agriculture, horticulture, landscaping and gardening. The MUV Electric Wheelbarrow eliminates the pushing and pulling required when using a conventional manual wheelbarrow and, since it has a push-button operated electric dump (capable of tipping loads up to 350kg), it also removes the lifting effort required when emptying/dumping a wheelbarrow. With a choice of either 800W or 1,200W DC electric drive motors, the MUV Electric Wheelbarrow is virtually noise free in its operation, making it ideal for internal use and in areas where noise-pollution is a concern for local residents. Since there are no handle-bar vibrations to cause Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) or ‘dead finger’ the Electric Wheelbarrow may be used without having to assess this potential risk to the operator (http://www.hse. gov.uk/vibration/hav/advicetoemployers/assessrisks.htm). The MUV Electric Wheelbarrow is available with both moulded industrial plastic and galvanized steel tubs, which may be interchanged by removing locking detent pins on the sub-frame. Other attachments, such as a flat-bed for transporting bricks, tiles and blocks are also available. Power comes from two 12V, 90AHr batteries, each is sealed-for-life and maintenance free. The waterproof battery charger is fitted on-board and may be connected to either a 220V or 110V power supply. The batteries and battery charger are matched to enable opportunity charging, at any point in the charging cycle, thereby considerably extending run-time. A coloured, LED battery-charge indicator gauge on the control panel clearly shows the battery state. Featuring a highly manoeuvrable design, the MUV Electric Wheelbarrow is operated using an infinitely variable, twist-grip throttle on the right handle in conjunction with a forwards/backwards direction switch on the control panel. Maximum speed is up to 4.6km/h for the 800W version and up to 6km/h for 1,200W version. An additional ‘tortoise’ mode switch on the control panel reduces maximum speed by 50% to enable inch-perfect positioning when activating the electric-tip and to help achieve a graduated release of the wheelbarrow contents. The front drive wheels and rear swivelling castor are fitted with industrial foam-filled tyres, making them puncture-proof and impervious to the nails/ screws and sharp objects often found on construction sites. In addition to regenerative braking provided by the 125Amp motor controller, there is a 6Nm electromagnetic brake for holding the wheelbarrow when on slopes and when in transit between locations. Typical uses for the MUV Electric Wheelbarrow include: • Small internal and external construction projects • Barrowing concrete from roadside delivery lorries • Crop harvesting in glasshouses and poly-tunnels • External landscaping projects • Moving feedstuffs in stables and ‘mucking out’ No driving licence is required to use the MUV, which may be loaded quickly into a van or onto a trailer using three scaffold planks, a tail-lift or ramp. • Nu-Star will be displaying the MUV Electric Wheelbarrow on stand X46 at The Executive Hire Show, taking place on the 11th and 12th February 2015 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry.

N.W.Leicestershire Unnamed Applicant (c/o: Charnwood Borough Council Development Management, Southfield Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 2TN) – Erection of up to 250 dwellings with associated infrastructure (Neighbouring Authority ref: P/14/2080/2) – at land north-east of Hallamford Road, Shepshed, Leics. Mr Lee Smith (c/o Agent: Shyam Sudera, Design Studio Architects Ltd, Unit 12 Gower Street, St Matthews Business Centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) Erection of a two-storey wing extension and a single-storey wing extension (Amended scheme) – at The Orchard, Charley Road, Charley, Loughborough, Leics. LE12 9YB. Mr Lee Bridges (c/o Agent: Ben Mabbett, St Pauls Associates Ltd, The Mews, 13A St pauls Square, Birmingham B3 1RB) – Erection of 2 semi-detached dwellings (Resubmission) – at 15 Ashby Road, Donisthorpe, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7QF. Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council (c/o: The Hinckley Hub, Rugby Road, Hinckley, Leics. ) – Approval of reserved matters of Outline Planning Permission Number 10/00851/EXT for the redevelopment of former colliery site to include storage and distribution uses, small business units, a country park, landscaping open space and formation of new access (Neighbouring Authority Consultation) – at Former Nailstone Colliery, Wood Road, Ellistown, Coalville, Leics. LE67 1GE. Partner Construction Ltd (c/o Agent: David Pickford, Pegasus Group, 5 The priory, Old London Road, Canwell, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B75 5SH) – Erection of 17 affordable dwellings – at land off North Avenue, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3QX. South Derbyshire District Council (c/o: Community & Planning Services, Civic Offices, Civic Way, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0AH) – Extension to and reconfiguration of existing visitor centre to create cafe and exhibition space – at Staunton Harold Reservoir, Calke Road, Melbourne, Derbyshire. Sarah Oakes, Penelope NewtonPepper & Victoria Pepper (c/o Agent: Peter Webster, Webster Associates, 3 Spaldwick Road, Stow Longa, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 0TL) – Demolition of existing dwelling to allow for a residential development of up to 9 dwellings – at 115 Station Road, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2GB.

My friend Ena is very giddy. Whenever we meet and I say: ‘Hi, Ena’, she laughs her head off.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • DECEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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You will get a quality repair and a fast turn around. You will be informed of your quote, spares arrival and completion date every step of the way. *Dewalt service agent of the year 2013.

We repair the following brands

ECA, Unit 26, Oswin Road, Brailsford Industrial Park, Leicester LE3 1HR Branches also at Coventry, Stoke and Newark

www.ecatoolfast.com

I’ve written a book on how to chop onions. Read it and weep.

Porcelain Tiles from ÂŁ9/m2 ex. VAT

Natural Stone from ÂŁ12/m2 ex. VAT

East End Beige Porcelain - 600 x 600mm

Silver Tumbled Travertine - 610 x 406mm

www.floorsofstone.com - 01509 234000 Floors of Stone Ltd, Cotes Mill, Nottingham Road, Loughborough, LE12 5TL

If women really want to be treated as equals, they need to stop being so much smarter than men.