October 2014 leicestershire builder magazine by Michael Wilkinson

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

Auction

Wednesday 15th October A total of 17 LOTS are due to go under the hammer at the next Shonki Bros. Property Auction on Wednesday 15th October 2014, at the King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, starting at 5pm prompt.

Best In The East Midlands:

William Davis Is Top Apprentice Employer A Loughboroughbased company has been named best in the East Midlands for employing apprentices.

Among the lots to be offered is a commercial investment property at Aylestone Road, Aylestone, Leicester (pictured above). The property comprises ground floor retail premises with living accommodation situated within a parade of retail units. Estimated rental income: £10,100 pa – after works. The Price Guide is £85,000+ For brief details of all of the lots on offer, turn to pages 18 & 19 of this issue or download the full catalogue from the website at: www.shonkibros.com

House builder and developer, William Davis Ltd, which employs over 450 people, was announced as Large Employer of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards East Midlands THE BEST: (L-R) Karen Riley, deputy director, Skills Funding Agency presents Regional final. The the National Apprenticeship Award Large Employer of the Year trophy to awards, organised Rebecca Jones, HR & training officer, William Davis Ltd. by the National Apprenticeship Service, part of the Skills Funding Agency, are designed to showcase excellence and recognise the ambition and enterprise of the UK’s top apprentices and employers. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 ...>

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

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Builders Finance Fund failing to help small house builders, says FMB The Government’s ‘Builders Finance Fund’ is not helping the small house builders it was designed to assist, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Builders Finance Fund was originally trailed in the March Budget as ‘help for smaller builders’, but the 15 unit minimum threshold that has been applied has effectively excluded large numbers of small and micro firms that do not build to this scale. However, analysis of the shortlisted schemes reveals that over half of the schemes consist of more than 50 units which is a far cry from the small sites that the scheme was set up to help. A handful of firms, including some very large companies, are behind a third of the schemes shortlisted.” Berry added: “A recent survey of FMB members revealed that only 8% of respondents built sites of more than 15 units and none had applied for finance under the scheme, which is very telling. Ministers have said that more developers will be invited to bid for funding under the scheme in the coming months and if this is the case, the Government should urgently review the 15 unit threshold which has so far been imposed, and which has effectively excluded a large proportion of the industry from benefiting from this policy. A five unit threshold would be much more helpful if the Government is serious about helping small and micro house builders deliver more new homes.” Berry concluded: “Whilst its is encouraging that the Government understands the role that SME house builders need to play to address the housing need, it needs to ensure its policies match its intentions.”

RICS UK Residential Market Survey, August 2014

UK housing market plateaus House price momentum slowed to the same level it was a year ago and new buyer enquiries fell for the second consecutive month, according to the August RICS Residential Market Survey. The number of agreed house sales also dipped for the first time since September 2012, but the overall picture shows a return to a less volatile market, with more stable price expectations over the next three months (a net balance of 9% of surveyors now expecting prices to rise, rather than fall – down from 51% at the start of the year). Significantly, the concern over a potential rise in interest rates could be a contributing factor to the fall in buyer interest and the number of agreed house sales. Members also indicated that Mortgage Market Review (MMR) – and an increasingly acute shortage of conveyancers – is adding between 2-4 weeks onto the time it takes to complete a transaction. At a national level, the sales and demand picture was mixed. In London, the South West and the West Midlands, there was a significant dip in new buyer interest, but Scotland and Northern Ireland were noticeable exceptions, where buyer enquiries remain firm, with a net balance of 43% and 52% respectively. While a lack of supply remains a challenge for the market across the whole of the country, there are at last some signs in the capital, where this problem has been most chronic, that instructions are now picking up. Prices over the next 12 months are still projected by surveyors to rise over the next year by 2.3% across the whole country, which is down from 3.7% at the start of 2014. Surveyors in Northern Ireland now appear most optimistic, anticipating a price gain of 3.9%. Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, said: “Buyer activity in the London market has been particularly pronounced but that is in a sense consistent with the move to a more sustainable market in the capital.” “Elsewhere around the country, the market in general is showing a greater degree of resilience, but that largely reflects the fact that in some areas the recovery has only recently taken hold and affordability is rather less stretched. Significantly, members now expect price gains over the next year to be faster outside of the Capital, than in it.” “Some of the momentum has come out of the housing market of late reflecting in part concerns over a likely rise in the cost of borrowing at some point in the not too distant future. However, we are also being told that the implementation of the recommendations of the MMR is taking its toll on activity; slowing the transaction process by on average up to a month.”

Residential development opportunity in Knighton

FOTHERGILL WYATT are offering for sale a well located development opportunity situated in the popular suburb of Knighton. The site - 27-29 Newmarket Street, Knighton, Leicester, LE2 3WQ - has planning permission granted by Leicester City Council (under ref: 20121222) for two detached properties; a two bedroom townhouse and three bedroom detached both benefiting from off road parking. The site is subject to a new application (ref: 20141060) for two semi detached, four bedroom townhouses and three single story studio apartments, all with off road parking. The property benefits from having excellent access to the city centre, Universities and having a wealth of amenities nearby. Guide price £220,000 - for more information, contact Fothergill Wyatt on 0116 270 5900 or email: info@fothergillwyatt.com

What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Westleigh expands into West Midlands as demand for new homes rises An affordable housing provider based in Leicestershire is to invest up to £10 million in the West Midlands housing market by expanding into the area. As demand for new homes continues to rise, Westleigh, a lead partner of the Homes and Communities Agency, has revealed plans to extend its house building activity into the West Midlands and surrounding areas. Creating new opportunities for employment, as well as addressing the urgent need for new affordable housing, the developer which up until now has focussed its efforts on the East Midlands, has launched a new office in Solihull to cover areas such as Birmingham, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire and Cheshire and a number of exciting new projects are already in the pipeline. The move has seen the creation of five new job roles, with two appointments already in place; Tom Ayers is the new Land Manager for the West Midlands, whilst Gino Siani is overseeing the new Solihull office as Head of New Business. New to the Westleigh management team, Gino brings a wealth of experience and an extensive knowledge of the housing industry to the role. Gino commented, “Launching a new office is a challenge I’ve approached with relish. Westleigh is already well established as an affordable homes builder with expertise in redeveloping brownfield sites and is a prominent partner with lots of Midland housing associations. My aim is to establish and build the brand in new areas and ultimately create successful opportunities that will cement Westleigh’s reputation as a leading developer across the whole

Desborough land SIMPSON & Partners are offering a plot of land with Outline Planning Permission for 4 three-bed semi-detached properties. Situated at Braybrooke Road, Desborough, Northamptonshire, the plot is on a private lane set back from the road. The asking price is £160,000. For more information, contact Simpson & partners on 01536 518200 or email: kettering@ simpsonandpartners.co.uk

Hinckley plot for two dwellings Tom Ayers, Gino Siani and Matthew Moore of Westleigh of the Midlands.” Managing Director, Chris Beighton, said, “We’re always looking for and receiving potent opportunities for development. The fact that we’re in a position to now expand our geographical outreach is a reflection on our strong position as a leading developer. “An expansion into the West Midlands will enable us to offer our high specification homes, as well as commercial units to a wider market and address the increased demand for developments right across the Midlands. However, along with contributing to the growth of Westleigh as a whole, new developments within the West Midlands will help to boost local economies, create new jobs and

stimulate the creation of many long term jobs to meet the needs of new residents, e.g. in shops, healthcare and education.” Westleigh, whose head quarters are based in Whetstone, Leicestershire, builds commercial projects and new homes across the East and West Midlands and manufactures its own eco-friendly timber frames for the construction industry at its Westframe factory in Narborough. It also builds affordable homes for housing associations across the East and West Midlands and into South Yorkshire. For more information about Westleigh contact 0116 277 3324 or log on to www.westleigh. co.uk.

Affordable family homes in Breedon A new rural housing scheme in Breedon on the Hill, on land donated by North West Leicestershire District Council, has helped ten local families to stay in the village. The homes at Southworth Road, developed by East Midlands Homes (emh group), meet the need for affordable family homes, demonstrated by a local housing needs survey. The £1.5 million scheme, managed by Midlands Rural Housing on behalf of Leicestershire Rural Housing, is a mix of one, two and three bed family homes and apartments.

MARTIN & CO Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land on Baines Lane, Hinckley with planning permission to erect 2 onebedroom houses. Each property has been designed to offer ample living space for a single occupier, or even a couple. The asking price is £45,000. For more information, contact Martin & Co. on 01455 636349 or email: Hinckley@martinco.com

Hinckley site for 10 dwellings WARDS Commercial are offering for sale a parcel of development land with planning permission (granted on appeal) for 10 dwellings. The land – off Paddock Way, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 3ED – extends to approximately 1.45 acres. Offers in the region of £500,000 are invited for the freehold. For further details, contact Wards on 01455 251771 or visit www. wardscommercial.co.uk

I asked the waiter, ‘Is this milk fresh?’ He said, ‘Lady, three hours ago it was grass.’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Residential or commercial development opportunity

41 Canal Street, South Wigston LE18 4PN Expressions of interest are sought from suitably experienced developers to work in partnership with Oadby and Wigston Borough Council to renovate 41 Canal Street, South Wigston. The Council intends to use its powers of Compulsory Purchase to acquire the property and, should this prove successful, the freehold will be transferred to the selected development partner. Arranged over three floors the building has an area of just over 800 square metres (8,600sq ft) and is a Locally Listed building situated within the South Wigston Conservation Area. It was last used for the manufacture of clothing. Residential and office uses are considered appropriate following refurbishment, subject to any relevant permissions.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by noon on Friday 7th November to: Planning Policy and Regeneration, Oadby & Wigston Borough Council, Bushloe House, Station Road, Wigston LE18 2DR. www.oadby-wigston.gov.uk/pages/economic_development For further details contact the Planning Policy and Regeneration Team on: business@oadby-wigston.gov.uk 0116 2572644

Interested parties will be expected to: • Show experience in this type of project along with three years of audited accounts. • Underwrite the costs of the Compulsory Purchase Order and lodge an appropriate amount in an escrow account. • Comply with and assist the CPO process which might include the early appointment of a consultant.

When God sneezed, I didn’t know what to say.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 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

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

Land off Farley Way, Quorn, Leicestershire An opportunity to acquire approximately 1.06 acres (0.427 hectares) of residential development land with outline planning permission for up to 7 dwellings. -

Freehold Located on the edge of Quorn Good access to strategic road network Close to schools and amenities

To be sold by informal tender with bids being sought on an unconditional basis by 12:00 noon on Friday 31st October 2014. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Agent: Andrew Bamber T: 01509 633724 E: andrew.bamber@matherjamie.co.uk Mather Jamie Ltd, 3 Bank Court, Weldon Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 5RF Online information pack available at: www.matherjamie.co.uk/farleywayquorn

My grandmother is over eighty and still doesn’t need glasses. Drinks right out of the bottle.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

ACV ‘preventing development’?

BPF calls for greater clarity in Community Right to Bid guidance

In its response to the Select Committee on Communities and Local Government Inquiry into Community Engagement Rights, the British Property Federation (BPF) has raised concerns about the clarity of the guidance on the Community Right to Bid and Assets of Community Value (ACV) process. Whilst the BPF has long been supportive of the Government’s Localism agenda and the move to ensure communities play a leading role in shaping development in their area, the response raises concerns that there is a potential for the ACV process to be used as a tool to stall development, and therefore to act as a deterrent to investors where sites present additional delays and costs. The response draws attention to cases where listed buildings or land as an ACV has been used as a tool to deliberately delay the transfer of an asset or to fight a planning application when there is no realistic prospect of the asset ever being owned by the community, and calls for small technical changes in the guidance that would assist in overcoming such cases. While the process allows communities time to raise sufficient funds, the BPF is aware of very few successful bids by a community group following the waiting period. The Community Right to Bid is not being used in the way it was intended, and so the BPF is concerned communities and developers alike are losing out due to the impact of the delays on development and economic activity. Liz Peace, Chief Executive of the BPF, said: “The BPF is very supportive of the Government’s Localism agenda and making sure communities are engaged in playing a key role in shaping their local area. However, the ACV process needs some modifications to prevent it being used in a way unintended by those who drafted the original legislation simply to prevent development”.

Shepshed land for 3 dwellings BENTONS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 0.6 acre parcel of building land on the very edge of Shepshed, bordering open countryside. The site – at Brick Kiln Lane, Shepshed, Leics. LE12 9EL – currently has Outline Planning Consent for 3 dwellings. Planning consent (ref: P/13/2467/2) was granted on 28th March 2014. Offers in the region of £450,000 are invited. For more information, contact Bentons on 01664 563892 or email: sales@bentons.co.uk

Conversion scheme will breathe new life into former Victorian hospital site A landmark building in Leicester is set to be restored after councillors approved plans for a housing development. The run-down Grade II Listed Towers Hospital in Humberstone will be transformed into elegant townhouses by Hazelton Homes. The firm, which specialises in listed building conversions, agreed to buy the former hospital site from Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust earlier this year. The development will also include 29 new four and five-bedroom homes within the former hospital grounds. Two lodges and a pump house on the site will be converted into homes. Hazelton Homes Commercial The development will be named Hine Director Richard Hazelton outside Park after George Hine, the architect the former Towers Hospital in who designed the hospital. Humberstone, Leicester. Hazelton Homes Commercial Director, Richard Hazelton, said: “We are delighted that our plans have been approved. We are eager to start work and construction will be underway in the very near future. “The hospital building is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and we have incorporated the sensitive restoration of some of its impressive original features into our scheme, while respecting the historical features of the listed building in the design of our new build properties. “Our plans will deliver much-needed new homes in Humberstone while retaining and restoring this striking local landmark and bringing it back into use.” The Towers Hospital was built in 1869 and was last used by inpatients in 2000, before closing altogether early last year. Various plans for the building into homes have been brought forward in recent years but the redevelopment never materialised. In documents approving the planning consent application, council planners said it was “good to see key buildings on the site retained and converted” within the plans for the main hospital ward buildings and said the conversion of the main hospital was “welcomed”. KRT Associates developed the design ethos for the scheme. Senior Associate David Frost said: “The scheme has been designed in a sensitive manner to ensure that the important architectural features of the former hospital building are retained and enhanced. Hazelton Homes specialises in listed building conversions. The firm has recently embarked on the third phase of its conversion of the former Coop Wheatsheaf Works factory in Knighton Fields into townhouses and apartments. Hazelton Homes has also been named among the finalists of this year’s ProCon Awards for Old Hall Farm in Cottesmore, a new homes development incorporating a listed building conversion.

You have a nice personality, but not for a human being.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Cash position and margins are not sustainable for the future of the UK construction industry, says KPMG Supply and demand for subcontractors and labour to come into balance is still a year off, according to KPMG Analysis of the largest UK construction contractors indicates that despite greater deal-flow, the financial position of many contractors remains weak, with cash balances and margins down, according to a report published in September by KPMG. The report “Construction Barometer: Recovery in Sight?” analyses the operating margins, cash balances and order books of 14 Tier 1 contractors from 2007 through to 2013. The detailed analysis revealed: • Net cash balances declined in 2013 and are now close to half their 2010 peak • As cash generated from operations have all but dried up since 2010, cash balances have been increasingly supported by significant sale of assets. • Operating margins in construction continue to be squeezed. From a high of 2.8% across the industry in 2010, operating margins have fallen to an average of just 1.2% in 2013 • Persistent inflation in subcontractor markets suggests that the negative pressure on margins is unlikely to ease off any time soon. This position is further highlighted by the several profit warnings issued in the first half of 2014 • Order books tell a slightly more optimistic story from margins and cash, however, reporting growth from 2012 to 2013 • The UK government’s infrastructure spend indicates that there is plenty yet to come with over £116 billion committed to over 1,886 projects.

Nuneaton site for 14 units: £600k LOVEITTS Commercial Estate Agents are offering for sale a residential development site with Outline Planning Consent for 13 chalet bungalows for the over55s, plus one two-storey terraced house. The 0.74 acre site – at the rear of 116120 Haunchwood Road, Nuneaton, Warks. CV10 8DJ – is available at an asking price of £600,000. For more information, contact Loveitts Commercial on 024 7622 8111 or email: Coventry.commercial@loveitts.co.uk

William Davis Apprentices - from page 1

Richard Threlfall, KPMG’s UK Head of Infrastructure, Building and Construction said: “Construction contractors have been struggling with some of the most difficult market conditions ever encountered and even now – with all evidence pointing to sustained recovery – the industry faces real profitability challenges. “Current margin and cash levels are unsustainable. With subcontractor rate increases and labour market shortages largely outside of contractors’ control, it is critical they continue to focus on improving their own efficiency. “The industry can though take heart from the first signs of a recovery in order books. Ultimately, we believe contractors need to hang on until supply and demand for subcontractors and labour come back into balance, which we predict is still a year off. With good forward planning, strong businesses should be investing now in their supply chain and technology to take advantage of the £45 billion a year tidal wave of future work.” The detailed report can be found at www.kpmg.co.uk/ creategraphics/09_2014/ Construction_Barometer/index. html#1.

Midway plot for a detached house: £52k YOUR MOVE Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land with planning permission (ref: 9/2013/0318/SM) for a three-bedroom detached home with parking. The plot - at the side of Truro Close, Midway, Swadlincote, Derbyshire occupies a cul-de-sac location and has rural views over the countryside. The asking price is £52,000. For more information, contact Your Move on 01283 219892 or email: Swadlincote@Your-Move.co.uk

William Davis has been training TRADESMEN OF THE FUTURE: apprentices since 1946, although its The 2014 William Davis apprentice formal programme commenced in intake (l-r) Harvey Moore; Nathan the late sixties. The company views Peacock; Keiran Fowles; Daniel apprentices as integral to its success Robinson; Ryan Hill; Billy Savory; and is proud to have recently gained formal recognition for its efforts and Joshua King and Jake Dominy with achievements training hundreds of (back l-r) apprentice masters, Pete young people. Weston and Dave King. “The National Apprenticeship Awards are the benchmark for celebrating the commitment and determination of employers and their apprentices,” commented William Davis’ HR & training officer, Rebecca Jones. “Our scheme has an outstanding reputation in the region, attracting hundreds of applicants annually, so to endorse this by winning Large Employer of the Year is exceptional. Our category included some tough competition from some of the region’s most well-known businesses so we are incredibly proud of our achievement.” The award announcement coincides with the appointment of William Davis’ 2014 apprentice intake, as the company welcomes eight aspiring tradesmen to its scheme. Set to undertake a three or four year advanced apprenticeship programme are trainee bricklayers, Jake Dominy and Billy Savory; electricians, Harvey Moore and Daniel Robinson; joiners, Ryan Hill and Joshua King and plumbers, Keiran Fowles and Nathan Peacock. Rebecca Jones added: “The new recruits join William Davis at a somewhat unprecedented time for our apprenticeship scheme; not only has it just won the National Apprenticeship Award but earlier this year, it was also recognised with a major industry accolade from the National Federation of Builders. These successes do not come without the hard work of our apprentice masters or college partners, but we remain confident that collectively we can provide the best possible opportunities for the region’s most promising young tradespeople and set them on an established, successful path to forge life-long careers.” As East Midlands winner, William Davis is now eligible to go through to the national judging stage, ahead of the national winners’ announcement at The Skills Show on 13th November.

Condoms aren’t completely safe. A friend of mine was wearing one and got hit by a bus.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

My cousin just died. He was only 19. He got stung by a bee ... the natural enemy of a tightrope walker.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

THE BEST DAILY EVER HAS ARRIVED, AND IT’S ALL NEW. Discover the New DAILY at Guest Trucks. W W W. I V E C O. C O. U K

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Those two are a fastidious couple. She’s fast and he’s hideous.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Melton semi requires modernisation: £108k SHOULERS Estate Agents are inviting offers around £108,000 (no chain) for a traditional three-bed semi-detached house requiring complete modernisation throughout. The property – 84 Salisbury Avenue, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1QX – has sealed double glazing and gas central heating (not tested). For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or visit www.shoulers.co.uk

NHBC new home registrations show modest increase on last year New figures released in September by NHBC show that the number of new homes being registered across the UK remains slightly ahead of corresponding statistics for last year. The latest statistics show that 38,099 new homes were registered for the rolling quarter May – July, compared to 37,738 for the same period last year; an increase of 1%, building on the strong growth seen throughout the country over the last 18 months. The private sector continues to drive overall growth with numbers up nearly 7% for the rolling quarter compared to last year (28,861 this year; 27,028 last year) with the public sector remaining down on 2013 levels by 14% (9,238 this year; 10,710 last year). Figures for July indicate a slight drop when compared to the same month last year (13,153 this year - 10,278 private sector; 2,875 public versus 13,539 for July 2013; 10,300 private; 3,239 public), although it is the second highest monthly total so far this year. As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, NHBC’s monthly registration statistics help to provide new and accurate data on the country’s new homes market. Commenting on the latest statistics, NHBC’s Chief Executive Mike Quinton said: “Our latest statistics continue the trend seen during the year to date, with monthly volumes remaining steady and consolidating on last year’s overall levels. “As we have stressed in the past, this recovery has been from a historically low base, so the industry must continue to work hard to meet the demand for more new, quality homes.”

Mather Jamie secures sale of former school site in Coalville Mather Jamie has overseen the sale of a former school site in Coalville, which is set to become new homes. Acting on behalf of Leicestershire County Council, the development land specialists have secured the sale of the 1.38 acre land on Waterworks Road to Williams Homes. The site benefits from outline planning consent for 24 new dwellings and the indicative layout plan allows for a mix of two and three-bedroom properties. Gary Kirk is one of the land agents at Mather Jamie, he comments: “The site attracted strong interest from a number of developers and the bids received on the deadline day were extremely competitive. “The strengthening of the development land market and in particular the growing demand for sites in the East Midlands region allowed us to secure an excellent result on behalf of the County Council. “The site is well located for residential development due to its proximity to local amenities, including schools and shops, and its proximity to the M1 via the A511, Leicester and Ashby de la Zouch.” Stephen Williams, of Williams Homes, comments: “This land is well suited to a development of new homes and will provide an ideal location for us to build a new collection of our high quality, distinctive homes, offering buyers an alternative product to that currently available in the area.” For information on similar opportunities, please contact Gary Kirk on 01509 233433 or email gary.kirk@matherjamie.co.uk.

Broughton Astley end-terrace needs modernising: £109,950 TAYLORS Property Services are offering for sale a twobed Victorian end-terrace house which is in need of modernisation. The property – at Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. – is being offered at an asking price of £109,950. For further information, contact Taylors on 01455 283 444 or visit the website at www.taylorsps.co.uk

Every once in a brownish-purple moon, I worry that I might be colour blind.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

Questioning Terms and Conditions Problem: I am a freelance quantity surveyor and seek assistance on behalf of one of my clients. The client in question is a plastering subcontractor and earlier this year it was invited to submit a schedule of rates for a new housing development in Corby. Having submitted the schedule of rates, the developer telephoned and asked my client to start work, which my client did on 12 May 2014. On 11 June 2014, the developer issued a written order that contained previously unseen terms and conditions of contract. I was asked by my client to look at these terms and on 19 June 2014, based on my advice, my client rejected certain terms and put forward new terms. The developer subsequently wrote back and stated that its original T & C’s stood and that there would be no negotiations. The developer has also stated that if my client continues to reject the order, then it will be removed from the project. I would very much appreciate your view.

Wojtek

Response: Hello Wojtek. As your client commenced the subcontract works on 12 May, then the terms subsequently issued by the developer on 11 June, unless expressly accepted, are not binding. I am not aware whether your client just issued a schedule of rates or that it was accompanied with its own T & C’s. However, the fact that your client commenced work on 12 May, this is known as ‘contract by conduct’, and any attempt by the developer to introduce other T & C’s post this date will not be binding upon the parties. The contract terms in existence are those that were apparent immediately prior to your client commencing the works, and to which the developer did not dissent. What those terms are will depend upon what your client included in its offer (i.e., when it submitted its schedule of rates). If your client just issued the schedule of rates,

there will be certain terms that are implied, including time and quality. However, your client will need to be cautious as it may not have stated what the minimum amount of work it was required to do, thus allowing the developer to cease providing any further work and your client would not be entitled to any compensation. If the agreement did not include for a minimum amount of work to be performed, there cannot be any compensation for loss of profit due to the sub-contract not being performed, as there was no agreement as to future works and in turn, there could be no future work to incur a loss on. I suggest that both parties attempt to agree mutually acceptable terms, failure of which your client should continue performing the works under the initial agreement. © 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 a Consultant Solicitor with Edward Hands & Lewis, based in Leicestershire.

M-EC’S ENVIRONMENTAL DIVISION EXPANDS One of the East Midlands’ fastest growing consulting development engineers, M-EC has bolstered its in-house environmental division by offering odour and vibration assessments. A key consideration for planning applications, odour assessments can identify any adverse effects on existing or future residents, “Odour and vibration whilst vibration surveys can determine viability for development as assessments can prove well as suggest ways for developers to minimise disruption during particularly useful for construction. sites in close proximity to “Odour and vibration assessments can prove particularly useful for sites in close proximity to railway lines, main road infrastructure and railway lines, main road sewage treatment plants, farms or other industrial sources respectively infrastructure and sewage as well as for determining the impact of construction site traffic on treatment plants, farms or the surrounding area,” said M-EC’s environmental consultant, Rosie other industrial sources.” James. “With legislation outlined by the Environmental Protection Act, Defra, Environment Agency and the National Planning Policy Rosie James Framework, it’s essential for local authorities, planning consultants and developers to seek advice and remain as up-to-date as possible.” To undertake odour and vibration assessments, M-EC utilises the latest equipment and software. A seismograph is used to calculate vibration values whilst atmospheric dispersion modelling software uses meteorological data to show the contours and estimated reach of where odours might spread. The consultancy has already conducted successful surveys in Eckington, Worcestershire; Earls Barton, Northamptonshire and Asfordby Hill, Leicestershire confirming low probability of any adverse effects and therefore viability for development. Rosie added: “Odour and vibration sit naturally alongside noise and air quality, so it was a logical progression to add these capabilities to the environmental division. Our whole function is to assess impact, develop mitigation and support planning proposals so by offering the four main assessments from one consultancy, we hope to improve speed and reduce costs for clients.” M-EC’s environmental division was established in 2013 and Rosie James has over seven years’ experience in the sector.

M-EC’s environmental consultant, Rosie James

I got strip searched at the airport. Why those customs officers had to take their clothes off I’ve no idea.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I always arrive late at the office, but I make up for it by leaving early.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I truly believe that all deadlines are unreasonable regardless of the amount of time given.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Auction Diary

Labour commits to ‘brownfield first’ policy for new homes

October 2014

Thursday 2 October 2014 - GRAHAM PENNY - at King Power Stadium, Leicester - 11.30am start - tel: 0116 202 5048 - www.grahampenny.com

A future Labour government would reintroduce a ‘brownfield first’ policy for house building.

Thursday 2 October 2014 - AUCTION HOUSE LEICESTERSHIRE - 6pm start - at The Shuttle Suite, The National Space Centre, Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NS - www. auctionhouse.uk.net Wednesday 15th October 2014 SHONKI BROS - 5pm Start - at The King Power Stadium, Filbert Way Leicester - tel: 0116 255 7573 - www. shonkibros.com Thursday 16 October 2014 -COTTONS - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@cottons.co.uk Thursday 16 October 2014 - SAVILLS - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8020 - www.savills.co.uk/auctions Friday 17 October 2014 - GRAHAM PENNY - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham - 11.30am start - tel: 0115 958 8702 - www. grahampenny.com Monday 20th October 2014 HOWKINS & HARRISON - at De Vere Staverton Park, Daventry Road, Staverton, Daventry, Northants. NN11 6JT – 6.30pm start - tel: 01788 564680 - email: auctions@ howkinsandharrison.co.uk Thursday 23 October 2014 CPBIGWOOD - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 233 5046 www.bigwood.uk.com

Thursday 23 October 2014 - GRAHAM PENNY - at the Ipro Stadium, Derby - 11.30am start - tel: 01332 242880 www.grahampenny.com

November 2014 Thursday 20 November2014 GRAHAM PENNY - at King Power Stadium, Leicester - 11.30am start - tel: 0116 202 5048 - www. grahampenny.com Wednesday 26 November 2014 BAGSHAWS RESIDENTIAL - at The Gateway Suite, Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Grandstand Road, Derby, DE21 6AF - tel: 01332 542 296 or 01332 542 298 or www. bagshawsauctions.co.uk

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Properties for sale at the Howkins & Harrison October Auction The following development properties are being offered for sale at the next Howkins & Harrison Collective Auction on Monday 20th October at De Vere Staverton Park, Daventry Road, Staverton, Daventry, Northants. NN11 6JT – 6.30pm start. • Freehold Residential Site, Ninevah Cottage, 4 Stratford Road, Wellesbourne, Warwick CV35 9RN - A residential development site with detailed planning consent for the construction of a four bedroom, detached dwelling within approximately 0.25 of an acre. Guide Price: £100,000. • Building Plot at Church Road, Braunston NN11 7HR - A residential development site with detailed planning consent for the construction of a four bedroom, detached dwelling within approximately 0.25 of an acre. Guide Price: £95,000. • Building Plot at Peveril Road, Ashby Magna LE17 5NQ - A building plot for a single three bedroom detached dwelling extending to 1,366 sq ft (127 sq m) in a popular Leicestershire village. Guide Price: £100,000. For more information, contact Howkins & Harrison on 01788 564680 or email: auctions@howkinsandharrison.co.uk

Newhall site for 5 dwellings SCARGILL MANN & CO are offering for sale a prime development plot with Outline Planning Permission (ref: 9/2013/0639) for 3 three-storey town houses and 2 twobedroomed apartments. The site - at the rear of 61 High Street, Newhall, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0HT - is available at a price guide of £300,000. For further details, contact Scargill Mann & Co on 01283 548194 or visit www.scargillmann.co.uk

Church Gresley plot: £55k YOUR MOVE Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land at the rear of number 80 Common Road, Church Gresley, Swadlincote, Derbyshire. The land has Outline Planning Permission for a large three-bed detached home. The asking price is £55,000. For further details, contact Your Move on 01283 219892 or email: Swadlincote@Your-Move.co.uk

This was the message confirmed last night by the Shadow Planning Minister Roberta BlackmanWoods MP at the joint FMB/CPRE fringe event at the Labour Party Conference in Manchester. The growing housing crisis, with fewer than half the number of new homes being built every year, is a hot political issue and where these new homes should be built is very controversial. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said: “It makes sense to utilise previously developed land but a strict brownfield first policy would not be helpful. What we do need is positive policies to enable and encourage SME house builders to build out brownfield sites.” Berry continued: “The best way to support the development of smaller brownfield sites would be for local authorities to identify and allocate a higher proportion of small sites than they are currently. Further streamlining of the planning application process would also help, especially if sites of up to ten units were given a ‘redline’ planning application route whereby only basic information would be required to obtain planning consent.” Berry concluded: “It is very encouraging that the Labour Party is taking the housing problem so seriously. Any attempt to build more homes can only be helpful to address the growing housing problem in this country. People need more choice which is why it is so important that local builders are encouraged to build the homes that local people need and want. If these homes can be provided on previously developed land that is a good thing but given the scale of our housing need, greenfield land will also be needed.”

Don’t forget to send us your news! Email your items of interest to: info:buildermagazines. co.uk Thanks!

I talk to myself a lot, and it bothers some people because I use a megaphone.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

‘Controlled collapse’ planned for council HQ

Northfields: A New Community in Carlton

THE crumbling office blocks at New Walk Centre are due to be brought down in a controlled initiated collapse early next year. Leicester City Council has announced the method to be used to demolish its former headquarters, following 10 weeks of investigations and preparatory work by demolition contractors on the site. The offices were handed over in July to demolition firm DSM, who have since been carrying out preparatory works and enabling work to help establish the safest and quickest method of taking down the buildings. The chosen method – known as a controlled initiated collapse – will bring the two tower blocks down into their own footprint in a matter of seconds. It is widely used in the industry, as a quick and safe method of demolition. It will be subject to stringent safety conditions and overseen by the Health and Safety Executive and police. Following the demolition, teams of specialist cleaners will move in immediately afterwards to clean up the resulting dust so that roads, homes, and businesses near to the demolition site can return to normal that same day. Further details will now be drawn up on exactly when the process will take place, along with arrangements for road closures and vacating businesses and homes nearest the site. Further testing on the site over the last few weeks has revealed that the other possible methods of demolition - including gradual dismantling by ultra-high reach machine - would be impractical due to the decaying state of the building. Leicester City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Contractors have spent the last 10 weeks gradually stripping the building of fixtures and fittings and carrying out numerous investigations and testing work to see how the building can be brought down safely. “Given the very poor condition of the building, they felt that slowly dismantling it would be too risky for the contractors working on it, and

that bringing it down very quickly would be far safer. “This method means the buildings can be demolished, the surrounding area cleaned and the roads and businesses re-opened all within the same day. “We’ll now be in further discussions with DSM to set a date for the demolition and make the necessary arrangements. “We’ll also be working closely with residents and businesses to ensure they know in plenty of time how it will affect them, and how we will be helping them.” As part of the agreement with contractors, the site will be leveled and left as a vacant brownfield plot for future development. The New Walk Centre plot is considered to be a prime citycentre development site easily accessible from Leicester Station, New Walk and the heart of the city’s shopping area.

Castle Donington warehouse to become new fire station Leicestershire commercial agent, Mather Jamie, has overseen the sale of a warehouse in Castle Donington, which will be converted into a new fire station. The 10,225 sq ft industrial unit at Building 97 on Beverley Road, located within the East Midlands Airport campus, has been purchased by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. The unit comprises of warehouse and office space to the ground floor, and first floor on a large selfcontained site. Alex Reid of Mather Jamie comments: “It is a secure, selfcontained site with modern facilities and benefits from an excellent location – just a short distance from the M1.”

A rural affordable housing development on the edge of the Leicestershire village of Carlton has been officially handed over.

HANDOVER: (L-R) County councillor for Leicestershire, Ivan Ould; William Davis Ltd’s partnerships director, Richard Cornes and NCHA’s director of technical services, Paul Moat celebrate the completion of Northfields in Carlton, Leicestershire.

Built by Loughborough-based contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd, Northfields, as the scheme has been named, has created 11 two bedroom houses and bungalows on Nailstone Road. Situated on a Rural Exception site, the £1.1m development was designed to address the longstanding need for affordable housing in a rural area where high house prices would otherwise make it difficult for local families with a connection to Carlton to remain in the village. William Davis developed Northfields in partnership with Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA), Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Leicestershire County Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). Further consultation was also completed with local residents, Carlton Parish Council, Shackerstone Parish Council and the Leicestershire Rural Housing Enabler. To mark Northfields’ official handover and welcome its new residents, project partners gathered on site for a short ceremony and tour of the new homes. Richard Cornes, partnerships director at William Davis said: “Northfields serves as a good example of overcoming the difficulties in delivering viable, affordable housing in rural communities. Typically, these schemes comprise small, edge-of-village sites that present numerous challenges. We are proud to have resolved all of these here and delivered an exceptional scheme, enabling local families to reside in Carlton.” Designed by NCHA’s Pelham Architects, all the homes at Northfields feature solar heated hot water and have achieved Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3. “It’s vital for us to develop properties in areas where there is a shortage of affordable housing,” added NCHA’s director of technical services, Paul Moat. “Working here in Carlton with the Local Authorities and the Parish Councils has allowed us to build houses that we hope our new tenants will enjoy for many years to come.”

Building plot with paddock: £200k BENTONS Estate Agents are asking £200,000 for a building plot complete with its own 1.84 acre paddock. The land – at 2 Melton Lane, Burrough on the Hill, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 2JN – has planning consent (ref: 14/00324/FUL) for demolition of the existing bungalow and replacement with a three-bed, three-bathroom, detached two-storey cottage dwelling. For more information, contact Bentons on 01664 563892 or email: sales@ bentons.co.uk

It only takes four men to wallpaper a house, but you have to slice them thinly.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Hillsborough Close, Glen Parva FLAT

Dunton Street, Woodgate RESIDENTIAL

• One bedroom first floor flat • Gas central heating & double glazing • Having car parking • Est. rental income: £400 p.c.m (£4,800 pa) • 10% net initial yield Price Guide: £48,000+

• Two bedroom mid terrace property • Having double glazing & recently installed gas central heating • Est. rental income: £525 p.c.m (£6,300 pa) • Ideal for owner occupier, rental investor or first time buyer Price Guide: £75,000 - £85,000

Orchard Street, City Centre APARTMENT

• First floor apartment • Within walking distance of Highcross Shopping Centre • Allocated car parking • Est. rental income: £450 p.c.m (£5,400 pa) (9% net initial yield) • Previously marketed at £80,000 Price Guide: £55,000 - £65,000

The Atrium, City Centre APARTMENT

• First floor apartment • Within a block of modern apartments • Walking distance to Leicester University & Railway Station • Est. rental income: £450 p.c.m (£5,400 pa) • 9% net initial yield Price Guide: £55,000 - £65,000

Wolverton Road, Off Narborough Road RESIDENTIAL

• Two bedroom mid terrace property • In need of refurbishment • Within walking distance of De Montfort University & Leicester Royal Infirmary • Est. rental income: £525 p.c.m (£6,300 pa) – after work Price Guide: £75,000+

Aylestone Road, Aylestone COMMERCIAL

• Ground floor retail premises with living accommodation • Within parade of retail units • Est rental income: £10,100 pa – after works • Excellent investment opportunity Price Guide: £85,000+

Wilmington Road, Near Narborough Road RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

• Three bedroom mid terrace property • Having gas central heating & double glazing • Currently let on an A.S.T • Current rental income: £475 p.c.m (£5,700 pa) Price Guide: £85,000+

Ruding Road, Off Narborough Road RESIDENTIAL

• Two bedroom mid terrace property • Double glazed & gas central heated • Within walking distance of De Montfort University & Leicester Royal Infirmary • Very neatly presented internally • Est. rental income: £550 p.c.m (£6,600 pa) Price Guide: £90,000+

Aylestone Drive, Aylestone RESIDENTIAL

• Three bedroom semi detached property • Within popular residential location • Having off road parking & good sized rear garden • Recently refurbished throughout • Est. rental income: £595 p.c.m (£6,900 pa) Price Guide: £115,000 - £125,000

Old people shouldn’t eat health foods. They need all the preservatives they can get.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Property Auction on Wednesday 15th October 2014 at 5pm At: Leicester City Football Club,The King Power Stadium, Gary Lineker Suite, Filbert Way, Leicester LE2 7FL Herschell Street, Near London Road RESIDENTIAL

Church Lane, Anstey INVESTMENT

Pendlebury Drive, Knighton RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

• Two bedroom mid terrace property • Within walking distance of Leicester University & Leicester City Centre • Fully double glazed & gas central heated • Ideal to let to students • Est. rental income: £9,500 per annum exclusive Price Guide: £115,000+

• Two self contained flats • Quiet village location / close to Bradgate Park • Allocated car parking provided • Est. full rental income: £13,740 pa

• Four bedroom detached property • Popular residential location • Having off road parking / large front & rear gardens • Let on A.S.T at £700 p.c.m (£8,400 pa) • Ideal investment opportunity or family home Price Guide: £175,000+

• If not sold as whole to be offered for sale as two separate subsequent lots Price Guide: £165,000 - £175,000

Red Hill Lane, Thurmaston RESIDENTIAL

3B Church Lane, Anstey FLAT

• Two bedroom detached bungalow • Close to Thurmaston Shopping Centre • Providing off road parking & detached garage • Est. rental income: £595 p.c.m (£6,900 pa) • Ideal for owner occupiers, first time buyers or rental investors Price Guide: £125,000 - £135,000

• One bedroom self contained flat • Electric heating & double glazing • Very well presented internally • Allocated car parking provided • Est. full rental income: £550 p.c.m (£6,600 pa) Price Guide: £75,000+

Roecliffe Close, Markfield RESIDENTIAL

5B Church Lane, Anstey FLAT

Norman Street, Off Narborough Road RESIDENTIAL

• Three bedroom mid terrace property • In need of full refurbishment • Within walking distance of De Montfort University & Leicester Royal Infirmary • Ideal to let to students • Est. rental income: £1,000 p.c.m (£12,000 pa) – after works Price Guide: £75,000+

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

• Four bedroom semi-detached property • Desirable residential location • Front driveway leading to garage • Previously marketed at £169,950 • Ideal for owner occupiers, first time buyers or rental investors Price Guide: £145,000 - £155,000

• Two bedroom self contained flat • Electric heating & double glazing • Village location / close to Bradgate Park • Covered car parking provided • Est. full rental income: £595 p.c.m (£7,140 pa) Price Guide: £85,000+

Web: www.shonkibros.com Email: info@shonkibros.com

If you can’t laugh at yourself, I’ll do it for you.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

EMC Tiles to hold first Trade Event Extravaganza in new Leicester centre Leading tile retailer, EMC Tiles, is to hold its first Trade Event Extravaganza at its newly acquired centre in Leicester. EMC Tiles recently took over the former Leicester Tile Centre on Saffron Lane and is in the process of introducing Leicestershire trade and domestic tile buyers to its superior service, unrivalled stock and unbeatable prices. The three-day trade event, which runs from Wednesday Oct 1 to Friday Oct 3 will feature displays and demonstrations from leading tile trade product manufacturers, including Mapei, Weber, Fila, Rubi, SHARING A CUPPA: EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson TileMaster, Lithofin, Delta, Bellota (centre) has made the company’s Trade Events a highly popular and Genesis. and essential feature for tiling trade professionals There will be a free breakfast cob with tea or coffee to start the day, followed by a golden opportunity to meet and talk directly to manufacturers of all the best professional tiling tools and tiling products. And there will be plenty of free giveaways and handouts too. EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson said: “We have established an industry-leading reputation for our fabulous and highly popular trade events at our Nottingham and Loughborough centres. “They are a fantastic way for tiling professionals to catch up with all the latest developments and innovations, as well getting all the best first-hand information directly from the top suppliers in person. “There will be special offer buys and top prizes to be won. If you want to stay on top of your game as a leading, local tiling professional – you can’t afford to miss an EMC Trade Event like this.”

Friars Mill redevelopment begins WORK to rebuild and develop a disused and fire damaged 18th century mill complex in Leicester began in September. Leicester City Council is investing £6.3milllion in an ambitious project to redevelop the derelict Friars Mill complex, on the banks of the River Soar, and bring it back into use as a base for local businesses. The site includes Leicester’s oldest surviving factory building – the former Donisthorpe Factory – which was badly damaged in a fire in 2012. Leicester City Council bought the factory, and other buildings in the grade II-listed mill complex for £550,000, and has worked with Levitate Architecture and Design Studio to develop plans to create 2,300sqm of new, managed workspaces. The project has been awarded up to £3.9milllion from the European Development Fund. The city council will contribute £2.4million from capital set aside to deliver the Leicester Economic Action Plan. The city council has now awarded the construction contract to William Anelay Limited following a competitive tendering exercise.

Every time I’m wrong, the world makes a little less sense.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mansion Tax proposal is Work starts on £100M not the answer, says BPF Cotgrave development The British Property Federation (BPF) has poured scorn on Labour’s new proposals for a Mansion Tax, stressing it simply avoids much needed reform of council tax, and is not the way to plug any funding gaps in the NHS. The organisation has pointed out how the proposed £1.7bn that a Mansion Tax is projected to make will have a minimal impact on NHS budgets, and that without hypothecation, no link will exist. It has expressed further concerns that any revenue raised would be cancelled out by the loss in taxation in other areas, which a recent report by Savills calculated could be as much as £1bn. The tax was revealed by Ed Miliband in his keynote speech at the Labour Party Conference. Labour previously said that proceeds from a Mansion Tax on homes over £2m would be used to reintroduce a 10p tax rate. Ian Fletcher, Director of Policy, British Property Federation, said: “There is recognition in our industry that council tax on high-end property is low, and with no revaluation since 1991, in desperate need of reform. Instead of responsible reform, however, we get a Mansion Tax, and a political stunt, which has been used before. “Raising taxes to save the NHS is a tactic Labour used in the early noughties, when national insurance rates were increased to save the NHS. Labour obviously calculates that associating a policy with the NHS will make it popular, but there is no obvious link and a much better use of any available funds would be to spend them on access to housing, thereby improving peoples’ health outcomes. “The NHS requires funding certainty, but it is far from certain how much a Mansion Tax would actually raise. Once deferred payment options for those who are asset rich and income poor are taken into account, it is unlikely that it will even reach the projected £1.7bn per annum, which is very little when put into the context of the health budget. “This Mansion Tax is also effectively a tax on London. In an era of supposed greater devolution, further centralising property taxes can only be considered a retrograde step. “The best way to protect the NHS will be to grow the economy via investment, not raising taxes for current spending”

WORK has officially started on a new £100 million housing development at a former colliery site in Nottinghamshire, thanks to the combined efforts of local developers, councils and industry groups. Hollygate Park, in Cotgrave, is to become the location of hundreds of quality new homes built by Barratt Homes and sister company FORMER COLLIERY: A CGI of how Hollygate David Wilson Park will look once completed Homes on brownfield land, bringing jobs and investment to the local area. The development work follows an in-depth consultation with local residents and community groups, and the full programme includes the redevelopment of Cotgrave town centre. The developers will build more than 450 new homes, approximately a third of which will be affordable housing, which will provide more than 200 local training and employment opportunities. The project is being overseen by a partnership between Barratt Developments, Rushcliffe Borough Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Cotgrave Town Council, The Homes and Communities Agency, The Metropolitan Housing Trust and the The Construction Industry Training Board.

But enough about me, let’s talk about you. What do you think of me?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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My sister’s expecting a baby, and I don’t know if I’m going to be an uncle or an aunt.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

AMBERFIELD SITES – Key To Unlock Housing Shortage Leicester City Central England Co-Operative Ltd (c/o Agent: Brooke Smith Planning, The Cloisters, 12 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1NP) – Demolition of buildings and erection of two storey industrial building – at 98 Scudamore Road, Leicester. Ms F Begum (c/o Agent: David Brooks Surveyor, 40 Main Street, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9UU) – Change of use of care home to residential – at 88 Uppingham Road, Leicester. Nilkanth Estates (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Change of use from place of worship to 24 flats, demolition of single storey element, extension at rear and two storey extension to roof of building – at 3 St James Street, Leicester. Abode Bishop Street Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Change of use of upper floors from offices to residential – at Former Post Office, 4 Bishop Street, Leicester. Mr Barrie Pook (c/o Agent: CP Associates, 1311A Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2EN) – Demolition of building, erection of two storey building with ground floor shop and self-contained flat above – at 231 Melton Road, Leicester. E Berridge (c/o Agent: AJS Architectural Services, 41 Braunstone Avenue, Leicester LE3 0JH) – Demolition of garages and erection of two single storey storage buildings – at 77A Glenfield Road, Leicester. Mr Shiam Dattani (c/o Agent: Zone Development, Zone Office, 72-74 Western Road, Leicester LE3 0GE) Change of use from house in multiple occupation to 3 flats with single storey and dormer extension to rear – at 57 Beaconsfield Road, Leicester. Mr Shiam Dattani (c/o Agent: Zone Development, Zone Office, 72-74 Western Road, Leicester LE3 0GE) Change of use from house in multiple occupation to 3 flats with single storey and dormer extension to rear – at 40 Barclay Street, Leicester. Mr M Moosa (c/o Agent: KMC Consultancy, 9 Southfields Drive, Leicester LE2 6QS) – Single storey detached residential annexe – at 12 Nansen Road, Leicester.

RICS Property in Politics report sets out bold new vision for property market RICS have proposed a new solution to solve the UK’s chronic housing shortage in the RICS Property in Politics report, launched on 15th September.

Property in Politics Recommendations in full

Among a raft of recommendations, the report recommends the introduction of a new land classification, Amberfield - which would create a pipeline of ‘ready to go’ land, increasing housing supply and promoting development opportunities. Under RICS proposals, Local Authorities and communities will have to work together to label sites favourable for development as Amberfield and each Local Plan will have to include a set quota of Amberfield, ready to be developed for housing. The quota is expected to be set between 30 and 50 percent but the framework and guidelines for each quota would be open to consultation in order to match the specific needs of each Local Authority and community. Amberfield sites would have to be developed within 5 years and therefore Local Authorities will be required to approve planning consent for Amberfield within a set time frame, otherwise the Authority would risk being classed as ‘failing’ under the RICS proposed OfPlan assessment*. The new classification will enable local housing needs to be met and would create a 5 year land supply that works for communities and builders. The community will have better understanding of the planning process, more control over what is built where, and be able to see the long term development plan. While both brownfield and greenfield play an important role in the current planning system, both classifications block or slow development and local growth is being impeded by extensive battles to bring forward land. Amberfield will speed up the process and take out cost for both developers and local authorities - enabling homes to be built faster on the agreed sites. It will provide certainty to investors, unlocking development opportunities, and will also encourage local infrastructure investment. The review of land classification, coupled with the other RICS recommendations - including Development Delivery Units (DDUs) and a nationwide housing zones programme - will cut through the bureaucracy barriers, speeding up housing delivery and

The report puts forward 12 recommendations that RICS believe should be implemented by a future Government to build a vibrant, sustainable property marketplace in the UK. RICS calls on a future Government to: Housing • implement Development Delivery Units and Housing Zones • issue Property Tax Forward Guidance within its first 100 days • deliver a Professional Private Rented Sector (PRS) Planning & Development • introduce Amberfield: a new planning class • embed Local Plan Enforcement • lead a Resource Revolution in Planning Construction • create a National Procurement Framework • introduce a Construction Skills Investment Charter • implement a Construction Finance Hub Infrastructure • produce a National Infrastructure Delivery Plan • promote ‘Olympic–style’ Infrastructure Delivery Partners • setup an Infrastructure Commission

encouraging cooperation across local authority boundaries, stitching together the regions. The RICS Property in Politics report is the result of the largest consultation ever undertaken by RICS, with property professionals from across England sharing insight into the biggest challenges currently facing housing, planning & development, construction and infrastructure and what actions a future Government should take to remedy them. Jeremy Blackburn, RICS Head of Policy, commented: “A new classification labelled Amberfield would speed up the delivery of appropriate housing stock. The housing market plays a fundamental part in the UK economy and adequate, affordable housing supply is vital to the UK’s

economic growth. The planning system needs to be responsive to the needs of customers and increased confidence is needed in which sites can be taken forward. “We would suggest a quota of 50% Amberfield for most Local Authorities as it would enable them to deliver the appropriate housing stock required, but it is important to match the quota to the needs of the local community. “Housing must be a common theme across a range of policy areas, and the actions we are calling for would add real impetus to housing delivery. Successive Governments have failed to achieve delivery of the appropriate housing stock we require and we need reform now to give certainty for long-term investment.”

Plot in Ilkeston

Midway plot for sale: £52k

JRM Developments are selling a plot of land with outline planning permission for a two-bedroomed detached bungalow with single garage to the rear of 80 & 82 Church Street, Ilkeston.

YOUR MOVE Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land with planning permission (ref: 9/2013/0318/SM) for a three-bedroom detached home with parking.

The asking price is £65,000. For further details, contact JRM Developments on 01530 519790 or 07792657956 or email: rich.kar916@yahoo.co.uk.

The plot - at the side of Truro Close, Midway, Swadlincote, Derbyshire - occupies a cul-de-sac location and has rural views over the countryside. The asking price is £52,000. For more information, contact Your Move on 01283 219892 or email: Swadlincote@Your-Move.co.uk

Timing has an awful lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

News Items from Leicester City Council Improvements set for city estates NEW playgrounds, laybys and parking spaces are among a wide range of improvements proposed for a number of housing estates in the city.

Mr Kuldip Singh (c/o Agent: Master Plan Design Ltd, 23 Vulcan House, Vulcan Road, Leicester LE5 3EF) – Demolition of part of industrial building and erection of 2 houses – at 126 Weymouth Street, Leicester. Fashion Fabrics (c/o Agent: RG+P Ltd, 130 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7JA) – Third storey extension on roof of factory to provide ancillary offices and storage – at 360 Thurmaston Boulevard, Leicester. Falcon Free School (c/o Agent: Glancy Nicholls Architect, The Engine Room, 2 Newhall Square, Birmingham B3 1RU) – Two storey extension to rear of school – at Towers Hospital, Gipsy Lane, Leicester. Mr Patel (c/o Agent: ARC10 Architecture, 14 Belvoir Street, Leicester LE1 6AP) – Change of use from storage/warehouse building to residential; first floor extension at side; two storey and single storey extension at rear; dormer extensions to front and rear of house – at 6-8 Marshall Street, Leicester. Infill Land Consultants (c/o Agent: Geoffrey Evans, 2GH Water, Waterside House, Falmouth Road, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 8BE) – Variation of condition 13 attached to planning application 20060354: residential development of 5 dwellings – at Noray Close, Rear of 307-315 Uppingham Road, Leicester. Mr Anthony Hopkins (c/o Agent: AJS Architectural Services, 24 Wentworth Road, Leicester LE3 9DF) – Change of use of basement from retail to entertainment and leisure – at 62-66 High Street and 7-9 Guildhall Lane, Leicester. Mr Nick Langton (c/o Agent: Walters Architects, 69 Town Green Street, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NW) – Single storey extension at east side of football club – at Beaumont Town Football Club, Bennion Road, Leicester.

The city council is planning to spend more than £1.1 million on environmental improvements to the estates, including an insulation scheme for 170 homes in Braunstone, a new lift at St Leonards Court, new door entry systems on the Charnwood estate, and the external painting of properties in a number of areas. A new playground is proposed for Abbey Rise, and new play equipment for the Tick Tock park in Saffron. And the existing play area in the West End would be relocated to Dane Street/St Andrewes Street under the proposals. The funding would come from an underspend in the council’s housing revenue account capital programme. The schemes would be completed in 2014/15.

Plans unveiled for £4.2m community arena in city PROPOSALS for a £4.2m community arena in the city, which will also be the new home for Leicester’s championship winning basketball team the Leicester Riders, have been unveiled. Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby announced the start of a project to provide a 2,000 plus capacity sports arena on councilowned land on Charter Street, adjacent to Leicester College’s Abbey Park campus. Potentially up and running by autumn 2015, the arena would be capable of staging major indoor events as well as Riders’ matches. It would also house a fitness suite, classrooms, offices, bar and café. During term-time, the facilities would be part of the teaching and learning offer to all Leicester College students attending sports courses. And all of the college’s 29,000 students would also be offered access to the facilities through a membership scheme for sports enrichment activities.

The Leicester Cobras wheelchair basketball club would also train and play at the arena. And community use would be offered to local schools and other groups, through an agreed programme. The layout of the site would take account of the potential for further leisure development in the area. Subject to planning permission, the arena will be designed, built and operated by Leicester Community Sports Arena Ltd, a new company which sits under the Riders Foundation Charity. Leicester College and the city council will help to deliver the project. The city council intends to provide £1.5m funding to the project, and to give the charity a 125-year lease on the four-acre site. The council would receive a commercial rent for the site. Funding partners will be Leicester College, contributing £500,000. Additional funding will come from the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership with an £840,000 grant from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund. The Riders would contribute circa £500,000, and Sport England would potentially also provide funding. All funding would be subject to planning permission and other approvals being obtained. The project includes the costs of decontaminating the site, which was a former gas works. The development of the arena is expected to generate more than 50 jobs and to kick-start the regeneration of the wider area.

£9.3m school nears completion PUPILS and staff at West Gate School are preparing to move into purpose-built new premises thanks to the city council’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) scheme. The special school, in Glenfield Road, is being transformed in a £9.3m rebuilding scheme, with new facilities to include a specialist warm water pool, sensory rooms, a technology room and outdoor classrooms. Building work at the school began in April 2013 and is due to finish at the end of October, with pupils moving in at the start of November.

Bradgate Estates (c/o Agent: Ink/ Drawn Ltd, 9 Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZH) – Change of use of first, second and third floor to 10 onebedroom flats – at 21-25 East Bond Street, Leicester. Leicester City Football Club (c/o Agent: Philip Dodd, Architects LE1, 38 Nelson Street, Leicester LE1 7BA) – Single storey detached changing room building to football training centre – at Belvoir Drive Training Ground, Middlesex Road, Leicester. Mrs Ruth Field (c/o: Minster Care Group, The Old Stables, 1 Grove Hill Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3AA) – Two storey extension (24-bed) to residential care home – at Summer Vale Care Centre, Bewcastle Grove, Leicester. Sunlight Ltd (c/o Agent: Neil McMinn, Ink/Drawn Ltd, Federal Tower, 44 Abbey Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – Change of use from student halls of residence to 2 houses; single storey extension to front and side; increase in height of part of roof; dormer extensions to front – at Stoneygate Elms, 50 Knighton Drive, Leicester. Mr Gurchaten Dhesi (c/o: 36 Lockerbie Avenue, Leicester LE4 7NJ) – Change of use from dwellinghouse to 4 self-contained flats; two storey extension at side, single storey extension at rear and dormer extension at rear – at 20 Westbury Road, Leicester. Mr D Singh Benning (c/o Agent: DT Designs Ltd, 74 Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Change of use from parking at the rear to 2 selfcontained flats – at rear of 241 Uppingham Road, Leicester. Mr I Alimohamed (c/o Agent: YG Architectural Design Consultants, 1 Hollington Road, Leicester LE5 5HT) – Change of use from house to 2 flats – at 347 Humberstone Road, Leicester.

My mate is in love with two school bags. He’s bi-satchel.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

I accidentally left my electric toothbrush on all night. I’ve never seen the bathroom look so clean.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

New appointment as Davidsons see further growth Davidsons Homes have appointed a new area sales manager to oversee all their developments. Sarahjane Giles (pictured right) has been promoted to the new role as the company continues to expand across Leicestershire and the Midlands. Sarahjane has been with the Ibstock based company since they started in 2008 and was their first sales manager. She started her sales career with David Wilson Homes North Midlands before joining Davidsons. She managed a number of Davidsons developments and then took 6 months maternity leave for the birth of her son. Since her return she was most recently sales manager at Anstey. Stephanie King, Davidsons sales director, said “It’s been a busy year for us with lots of new developments, and there are more to come. As well as new developments in Leicestershire we opened our first development at Nuneaton in Warwickshire, and in the next few months we’ll have our first development in Northamptonshire at Byfield. Sarahjane’s appointment means we will be able to continue to provide a great service for our customers as we grow”.

Bus station redevelopment begins A FIRST phase of work on the major redevelopment of Leicester’s Haymarket Bus Station has started. Leicester City Council is investing £13.5milllion in the ambitious project to build a new, larger and more efficient bus station on the site of the existing one. The first phase of work – which began on Monday, 22 September – involves remodelling and improving highways around the junction of Abbey Street, Belgrave Gate and Charles Street. The new Haymarket Bus Station will provide more capacity for local bus services, with 11 additional stands meaning that 23 buses could drop off or pick up at any one time. Bus services that currently use nearby on-street bus stops will be relocated into the new bus station, which will significantly reduce bus queuing and congestion in the area. It will feature an attractive new concourse building which will provide modern facilities and the latest information systems for bus passengers. Roof-mounted solar panels will help provide power for the building and to charge mobility scooters at the Shopmobility centre which will be based in the new building. There will also be a number of improvements to make the area around the bus station more attractive. The footpath on the opposite side of Charles Street will be widened and reconstructed with high-quality block paving. New seating and decorative glass screens will be installed, along with the planting of a number of new trees. The 18-month project has been phased to minimise disruption to shoppers and businesses in the area. Access to the Haymarket car park will be maintained for the duration of the construction project. The existing bus station will stay open until after Christmas. Further information - including an animated fly-through video - is available at www. leicester.gov.uk/haymarketbusstation

Today is going so slowly my life is flashing before other people’s eyes.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

How rising interest rates will affect Midlands property buyers Mr Bihesh Pala (c/o Agent: DT Designs Ltd, 74 Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Change of use from police station to function hall; first floor extension; two storey extension to side & rear – at 299 Melton Road, Leicester. Leicester Bakery (Holdings) Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Erection of 5 factory units – at land to the south of Highview Close, Leicester.

Research has shown that property-buyers aren’t ready for interest rate rises. West Midlands Property Expert Simon Zutshi from Property Investors Network talks rate rises and counter-measures. The Scottish referendum no vote has led to expectations that the About the author Bank of England will hike interest rates early next year (a yes vote Simon Zutshi, experienced would have delayed expectations for this rise) but what could this investor, successful entrepreneur, mean for the property market? best-selling author, is widely The economy is booming. Builders have reported a surge in recognised as one of the top housebuilding and a rise in commercial and civil engineering. wealth creation strategists in the Markit’s Purchasing Manager Index (PMI) report shows that the UK. Having started to invest in UK con-struction PMI has risen to 64.0, up from 62.4, indicating an 1995, and went on to became financially independent by the age acceleration in growth, one of the best readings in seven years.

Wellsford Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Harding Planning Services, 15 Riddington Road, Leicester LE3 2JS) – Change of use from ground floor shop to 2 flats – at 21 Whitwick Way, Leicester.

Much has been made about the anticipated rise in interest rates. Earlier this month, Bank of Eng-land governor Mark Carney said that rates could start to climb from their record low of 0.5% in early 2015. He also suggested that above-inflation pay rises were not expected before the summer at the earliest. This has led to the worry that mortgage costs will be unaffordable when rates rise.

Wellsford Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Harding Planning Services, 15 Riddington Road, Leicester LE3 2JS) – Change of use from ground floor shop to 2 flats – at 25 Whitwick Way, Leicester. Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Gus Beswick, Faithful + Gould, Broadgate House, Broadgate, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2HF) – Demolition of existing garage and extension to community centre – at St Andrew’s Centre, 25 Grisedale Close, Leicester. Mr A Singh (c/o Agent: G Kitaure, Gurmukhi Building Design Ltd, The Old School House, School Road, Moseley, Birmingham B13 9SW) – Change of use from part of club to shops – at Piccadilly Cinema, Green Lane Road, Leicester. Newton House (c/o Agent: Malik Enterprises, 30 Carlton Drive, Wigston, Leicester LE18 1DF) – Three storey extension and dormer at rear of residential care home – at 47 Prospect Road, Leicester.

What risk does this all pose to the housing market? Surveyors project that prices over the next year will rise across the whole country (with Northern Ireland expected to have the highest gain). Some research has also suggested that more sellers are putting their houses on the market in response to price increases. Naturally, the cost of fixed mortgages largely depends on whether the banks can access cheap money for lending. They get this from savers or borrowing from other banks on the money market. However, the so-called “swap-rates” are reactive according to future interest rate predictions. The-se swap-rates were low for most of 2013 and the price of fixed-rate mortgages fell. With an in-crease in interest rates, comes a likely increase in mortgage rates. Bank of England boss Mark Carney has said that he thinks house prices can be kept in check using measures such as afford-ability tests. Home-owners have been really benefitting from low interest rates since 2008 and comparethemarket.com’s research has found that mortgage payments have been less than £112 per month on average for every household. Worryingly, the comparethemarket.com’s research has shown that one in four home-owners have no idea how interest rates will affect their financial situa-tion. As much as 60% of home-owners have made no measures to prepare for a monthly payment increase. What should home-owners do? It’s never a good idea to rely on future rate predictions and a fixed rate mortgage is still a good idea compared with a “tracker” mortgage, especially on longer-term loans. Some lenders are still behind their annual lending targets and might cut prices to attract more borrowers). It’s worth considering a five-year-fixed-rate as some lenders have cut rates to below 3% for the first time in months but check the size of the fee (especially if you’re not borrowing a large amount) as this could outweigh any savings. For further information contact West Midlands Property Expert Simon Zutshi www.propertyinvestorsnetwork.co.uk

of 32. Passionate about sharing his experience, Simon founded the property investor’s network in 2003 www. propertyinvestorsnetwork.co.uk has grown to become the largest property networking organisation in the UK, with monthly meetings in 51 cities, designed specifically to provide a supportive, educational and inspirational environment for people like you to network with and learn from other successful investors. Since 2003 Simon has taught thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners how to successfully invest in a tax efficient way to create additional streams of income, give them more time to do the things they want to do and build their long-term wealth. Simon’s book “Property Magic” which is now in its fourth edition, became an instant hit when first released in 2008 and remains an Amazon No 1 best selling property book. Simon Has recently launched CrowdProperty.com which is a peer to peer lending platform to facilitate loans between private individuals and property professionals. www.propertyinvestorsnetwork. co.uk

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I’ve always taken things far too literally. That’s why I’ve been in a wheelchair ever since I tried to bazooka that verruca.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Wellsford Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Harding Planning Services, 15 Riddington Road, Leicester LE3 2JS) – Change of use from cafe to 2 flats – at 23 Whitwick Way, Leicester. Mr Hussein Suleman (c/o Agent: Master Plan Design Solutions, 23 Vulcan House, Vulcan Road, Leicester LE5 3EF) – Change of use from storage to hotel – at 41 St Matthews Way, Leicester. IMAP Student Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Refurbishment and extension of existing building to create 54 new dwellings – at 4 Bishop Street, Leicester. Samar Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: David Beaumont & Associates, 78 Thirlmere Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 3RR) – Change of use from offices to 5 self-contained flats – at 12 Talbot Lane, Leicester. Leicester Community Sports Arena Ltd (c/o Agent: Lee Batten, Clague, 62 Burgate, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2BH) Two storey sports arena – at Charter Street, Leicester. Mr Z Mamujee (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Ltd, Unit 12 Gower Street, St Matthew’s Business Centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) – Dormer extension at side and rear plus roof alterations to form 2 additional flats – at 416 Hinckley Road, Leicester. Mr Clint Jones (c/o Agent: BHC, 1150B Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2HB) – Change of use from one dwellinghouse to 5 flats – at 69 Drumcliff Road, Leicester. Ms Sharmila Thobani (c/o Agent: Mr Nilesh Chudasama, 21 Cameron Avenue, Leicester LE4 7QL) – Change of use from one four-bed flat to 4 self-contained flats plus two storey extension at rear – at 45 Melton Road, Leicester. Mr Paul Jayes (c/o Agent: The Martin Design Partnership, The Factory, 33A Central Avenue, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2AB) – Erection of 2 bungalows – at 48 Runcorn Road, Leicester. Grand Properties (UK) Ltd (c/o Agent: Paul Cleaver Architects, 5 Wellington Street, Leicester LE1 6HH) – Demolition of building and erection of two storey building to form 3 selfcontained flats – at 69 Frisby Road, Leicester. UCR Consultants Ltd (c/o Agent: Jonah Mastin, TCMS, 5 Martin Avenue, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4NH) – Change of use from place of worship to offices – at Crescent House, 40 Regent Road, Leicester.

National House Building Council Partners With The Build Show As the housing boom continues to strengthen the UK’s economy, the Build Show is pleased to announce that the National House Building Council (NHBC) has joined as an exhibition partner, lending its considerable industry prowess to the show’s line up. The move comes at a particularly opportune moment, as the Build Show ramps up development of its seminar programme and NHBC will play a pivotal role in shaping this content. As the UK’s leading standard-setting body and home warranty provider, NHBC helps the industry to maintain and improve the build quality of new homes for homebuyers, whilst providing the benefit of its 10-year Buildmark Warranty & Insurance protection, when required. NHBC currently protects over 1.6m homes, with a market share of around 80%, giving it a unique insight into the sector that will greatly enhance the show’s development. NHBC also works to ease the legislative burden faced by house builders and developers, providing its registered builders with a reliable source of technical information and guidance to help them comply with the necessary regulations, as well as meeting requirements under the various levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes. NHBC will work directly with the Build Show to ensure that the housing specific content is accurate, up-to-date and relevant, with a particular focus on providing the information, contacts and networking opportunities needed to support this rapidly expanding sector. Taking place at the Birmingham NEC on 27th, 28th and 29th October 2015, the Build Show will bring together contractors, specifiers, builders, suppliers, housebuilders, architectural technologists and clients, providing the perfect forum to network, showcase new products and discover opportunities for professional development. For more information please visit www.buildshow.co.uk

13-bed hotel for sale: £950k ANDREW & ASHWELL are inviting offers in the region of £950,000 for the Hotel Rudyard, Lake Road, Rudyard, Leek, Staffs. ST13 8RN The property comprises a 13-bed hotel, separate residential dwelling and bedsit together with outbuildings, located within a site of 5.25 acres. The property has an established hotel use. All planning enquiries should be directed to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council on 0345 605 3010. For more information, contact Mike Allwood at Andrew & Ashwell on 0116 254 1220 or email: mra@andash.co.uk

Prime site in Toton ROBERT ELLIS Estate Agents are offering for sale a competitively priced development site at Carrfield Avenue, Toton, Nottingham NG9 6FE. The site currently has planning permission for 8 self-contained apartments with allocated parking to the rear and a large four-bed detached house. The local authority is Broxtowe Borough Council and the planning reference is 12/00317/OUT. Subject to approval of the local authority, alternatively the existing property at 57 Carrfield Avenue could be renovated and the layout of the site amended to provide 3 self-contained detached properties. The asking price is £450,000. For more information,, or to arrange a viewing, contact Robert Ellis on 0115 922 9919 or visit www.robertellis.co.uk

Brick Construction (Reading) Ltd (c/o Agent: Studio Four Architects, 1-3 Lyon Street, Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0LD) – Change of use of part of basement, part of ground, first, second, third and fourth floors from cinema/retail to: ancillary student accommodation (basement), 2 new retail units and ancillary student accommodation (ground floor), 100 student flats (first to fourth floors) and additional roof extension to form fifth floor – at Odeon Arcade, 32-38 Market Place, Leicester. U-Babe (UK) Ltd (c/o Agent: James Badley, RG+P, 130 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7JA) – Demolition of single storey buildings and erection of four storey student accommodation comprising 4 flats – at land adjacent to 25 De Montfort Street, Leicester. Mr & Mrs Parmar (c/o Agent: Brian Dearlove Partnership, Unit C Edward House, Grange Business Park, Enderby Road, Whetstone, Leicester LE8 6EP) – Change of use from school to hotel, function halls and conference facilities; demolition of existing single storey building and rear single storey extension; two storey extension at front; single storey extension at front, side and rear; alterations to roof; single storey cafe to side of site – at Braunstone Hall, Braunstone Park, Gooding Avenue, Leicester.

Hinckley & Bosworth Mr Bob Harvey (c/o Agent: Paul Thurlby, Gordon White & Hood, Beresford House, 1 Newtown Street, Leicester LE1 6WH) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at land adjacent to Lockey Farm, Hunts Lane, Desford, Leicester LE9 9LJ. Mr Andrew Pickup (c/o Agent: Paul Lees, Newton Fallowell, 1 Belvoir Road, Coalville, Leicester LE67 3PD) – Change of use of agricultural building to 2 dwellings – at Linton Farm, Merrylees Road, Thornton, Leics. Jay Dasani (c/o: 1 Mallard Drive, Syston, Leicester LE7 1ZL) – Change of use from first floor offices and alterations to ground floor shop to incorporate 3 residential flats – at 14-16 High Street, Barwell, Leicester LE9 8DQ. Mr Andrew Tyler (c/o: 39 Odell Road, Harrold, Bedford MK43 7DH) – Change of use from offices to 3 flats – at 8A Rugby Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0QD. Mr Alan Biggs (c/o Agent: Andrew Taylor, A R Taylor Ltd, 7 Greenway, Nuneaton, Warks. CV11 6NL) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings – at Stretton Cottages, Wolvey Road, Burbage, Leics. LE10 3JB.

I was given the sack at work today, but that’s what happens when you’re a postman.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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When a woman says, ‘We need to talk’, why is it never about football?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr M Stephens (c/o Agent: David Brooks Surveyor, 40 Main Street, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9UU) Erection of 3 dwellings – at 19 Ratby Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0GF. Jon Simon Evans (c/o Agent: Simon James Arq Ltd, 120 Grosvenor Street, All Saints, Manchester M1 7HL) Conversion and alterations to building to form 2 new dwellings – at 58 The Green, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9WD.

Melton Borough Ms Angela Taylor (c/o Agent: Sam Grant, Big Tree Planning Ltd, 63 Fosse Way, Syston, Leicester LE7 1NF) – Erection of 2 30ft by 60ft agricultural buildings – at 4 Dairy Lane, Nether Broughton, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 3EU. Buckminster Trust Estate (c/o Agent: A Russell-Wilks, Ancer Spa Ltd, Royal Oak Business Centre, 4 Lanchester Way, Daventry, Northants. NN11 8PH) – Outline application to develop the site as a mixed use urban extension comprising of up to 3,700 dwellings including sheltered housing for elderly and extra care accommodation, up to 110,000 sqm of employment space, a primary and secondary school, playng fields, play areas, allotments, woodlands, footpaths, cycleway, roads and drainage – at Three Queens Road, Croxton Kerrial, Leics.

Harborough District Heritage Pension Trust (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning, 1 Meridian South, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WY) – Demolition of some outbuildings; refurbishment of public house; conversion of part of public house to form 2 dwellings; erection of 6 dwellings; resurfacing of car park and construction of revised access – at The Rose & Crown Public House, Main Street, Tilton on the Hill, Leics. LE7 9LF. Whiterock Homes (c/o Agent: Morton Architectural Solutions, 76 Ecton Lane, Sywell, Northampton NN6 0BA) – Demolition of existing bungalow and erection of 2 detached dwellings – at 16 Brook Street, Walcote, Leics. LE17 4JR. Mr P Treston (c/o Agent: Chris Cox, Pegasus Planning Group Ltd, First Floor, South Wing, Equinox North, Great park Road, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4QL) – Erection of 6 affordable dwellings – at land south of Grange Farm, Catthorpe Road, Shawell, Leics. Trustees of Hallaton & Isabella Stenning Charity (c/o: 3 Station Cottage, Hallaton, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 8UF) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at land at Hunts Lane, Hallaton, Leics.

Tony Laverty Is Crowned Holdon Saw Challenge Winner Tony Laverty took home the HOLDON challenge title by cutting through a wooden railway sleeper over three rounds in a record time of 50.13 seconds. Tony competed against nine other finalists at the Northampton Saints Stadium to clinch the title of the fastest and most skilled tool user in the country and drive away in the top prize of a brand new Volkswagen van. The competitive finalists, who had already proven their speedy credentials at the qualifying HOLDON Saw Challenge rounds held at nationwide Travis Perkins branches, were eager to once again pick up the HOLDON rapsaw to walk away with the grand title and top prize. As well as the top prize of a Volkswagen van, each finalist received a free 16GB iPad. Tony Laverty, said: “I came down with my son who cheered me on from the side-lines and had a great time. I’m going to park my new van at my local Travis Perkins branch for a week so everyone can see what they’re missing! Thanks to the HOLDON team who looked after us so well on the day.” Stuart McLinden, Branch Manager of Travis Perkins Liverpool South, added: “We did a few practice runs with Tony at the branch before he went to Northampton and it looks like it has paid off! We’ve all been cheering him on throughout the competition and think it’s great he’s won.” For more information about the HOLDON Saw Challenge visit: www.holdontools.com/theholdonchallenge

Stepnell Selected For £2.3M College Refurbishment Construction company Stepnell – based at the Eldon Business Park, Chilwell - has been chosen for a £2.3 million programme of overcladding and internal refurbishment which will transform buildings at Stratfordupon-Avon College giving them a modern facelift and making them more energy-efficient. Stepnell’s Nottingham team has been appointed and is carrying out the work which is now under way. The refurbishment includes the re-cladding of a two-storey classroom block and three-storey teaching block connected by a high-level link. An insulated overcladding system will be installed over the buildings’ existing envelope, dramatically improving their appearance and thermal performance. They will also undergo internal refurbishment work including the installation of replacement lighting, suspended ceilings and redecoration. In addition, the Stepnell team will carry out roofing work to other buildings at the further education college at The Willows North, Stratford-upon-Avon. The work being carried out will significantly improve the energy-efficiency performance of the buildings reducing the amount of heat lost. New solar glazing to the windows being installed as part of the refurbishment programme will also reduce solar gain to classrooms. The programme of work is set to be completed in April 2015. The project was awarded to Stepnell – which has extensive experience in the education sector - following a two-stage tendering process where Stepnell worked collaboratively as part of the design team to ensure the project could be delivered within the client’s budget.

HAS YOUR COMPANY WON A BIG CONTRACT? Send details to us and we’ll share the good news with Leicestershire Builder readers. Email to: info@buildermagazines.co.uk

Residential development opportunity in Whoberley CONNELLS Estate Agents are offering for sale, subject to planning permission, a parcel of land to the east of Greendale Road, Whoberley, Coventry. Whoberley is a small residential suburb of Coventry and its bordering districts are Allesley and Allesley Park to the north, Canley to the south and Chapelfields to the east. Guide price on application contact Connells on 02476 553 093 or email: coventry@connnells. co.uk

Coalville Public House for sale Possible site for four town houses and a two bedroomed bungalow. Or conversion to a convenience store. For more information, email: office@anycastle.biz or telephone: 01509 502381.

My mate from the pub said I was posh. Naturally I ordered the butler to show him the door.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

World’s Biggest Companies Wordsearch Puzzle

C L Y Z C W F E J N C P A J F T F If you can find the names of the 13 largest companies in the world (by revenue) 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 names of the 13 largest earning companies in the world. (According to Wikipedia) These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: BIG BUSINESS, Leicestershire Builder, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Monday 20th October 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!

U C L W E L A W X N H S T A H X V

N O S E O C B L P R I G O P F U E

P E N S H U M C M N F C Y T R Y K

N S L A Y S J Z O A N C O F V U U

L I J U Y B H P L O R T T A J M I

D P K D J V E C R L F T F E M G C

J G Z I V C X V T K O Q Y N V G L

Q X O A G X E X O U U T T N S G L

A L O R R H J F I B D H I G S J L

U Z O A C Q L A T O T L Y V P D V

L U E M J Y R J G Q Q Y A C H F H

P X R C S J C B O P V U A Y C W Z

M S N O M Y F C Q U U T W Y O J U

P U O R G N E G A W S K L O V R G

S A M S U N G K Y S L Q N B O W W

P Z S K A S J O C K Y W H V L B B

Here are the 13 BIGGEST COMPANIES you have to find: CHEVRON • ROYAL DUTCH SHELL • CNPC* • SINOPEC GROUP WALMART CNPC BP • SAUDI ARAMCO • SGCC** • TOTAL • VOLKSWAGEN ROYALDUTCHSHELL SAMSUNG GROUP VITOL • SAMSUNG • TOYOTA • CHEVRON SAUDIARAMCO SGCC Name: .............................................................................................................. SINOPECGROUP TOTAL TOYOTA Address: ............................................................................................................. VITOL VOLKSWAGENGROUP .............................................................................Postcode: ............................. WALMART *CNPC is China National Petroleum Corporation **SGCC is State Grid Corporation of China

Created by Puzzlemaker a

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner:

C Kennedy of Leicester Road, Narborough

Congratulations! Your Frankie & Benny’s Voucher will be with you soon.

Stapenhill site Tamworth semi with plot Building land MARK EVANS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 4-bed semi- in Carlton for 12 units NEWTON FALLOWELL Estate Agents are offering for sale a 0.85 acre site with a resolution to grant Outline Planning Consent for 12 residential units. The land - at Scalpcliffe Road, Stapenhill, Near Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire - has an asking price of £595,000. For details, contact Newton Fallowell on 01283 808740 or email: burton@newtonfallowell. co.uk

detached house with a building plot for a three-bed detached dwelling. The property - Ivyleigh Villas, Church Lane, Shuttington, Near Tamworth, B79 0EB - is situated next to St. Matthews, a Grade II Listed Church, on a public footpath giving access to outstanding rural walks across open fields. The price guide is £284,950. For more information, contact Mark Evans on 01827 311300 or email: info@markevansestateagents.co.uk

If you enjoy reading Leicestershire Builder Magazine, please pass it on to a friend or colleague after you’ve finished with it. Thanks!

DAVID JAMES Estate Agents are asking £225,000 for a 716 sq.metre parcel of building land adjacent to 137 Carlton Hill, Carlton, Nottingham. The land - which measures 47.5m by 15.5m width - is awaiting Outline Planning Permission for one detached house and 3 town houses. Offers are invited subject to planning. For more information, contact David James on 0116 987 8957 or email: james@david-james.com

My girlfriend had a facelift, a tummy lift and a buttock lift. Now she’s nearly two feet off the ground.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Tel: 0116 2853 777 Leema Technologies Limited. The Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL

Last week I bought a fridge magnet. They really work. So far I’ve got 11 fridges.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Forticrete Launches New Cast Stone Regency Textured Ashlar Blocks Forticrete, the UK’s leading manufacturer of architectural masonry products, has added a new textured finish to its popular range of Cast Stone blocks. The new Regency Textured Ashlar has been developed to replicate a natural Ashlar Stone with a decorative treatment consisting of small grooves, better known as a ‘Mason’s Drag’. John Lambert, general manager at Forticrete, commented: “Forticrete was tasked with seamlessly replicating the texture of the existing natural stone finish of the centrepiece to a development of a luxury retirement village in Derbyshire, originally built in the 1820s, which carried a strict requirement by the local planning authority, originally calling for the use of natural stone. Forticrete developed a unique textured ‘masons tooling’ finish for the face of the Forticrete Regency Ashlar block. The high quality finish makes it extremely difficult to differentiate between the natural and cast stone. “We’ve since seen an increasing number of architects and specifiers searching for cost effective, yet sensitive alternatives to natural stone, so we took the decision to include the textured block as standard in our portfolio.” Boasting the same architectural properties as natural stone at a fraction of the cost, the new Regency Textured Ashlar range is available in all standard Ashlar sizes and colours, with bespoke sizes and colours available on request. Forticrete Regency Ashlar is manufactured from high grade limestone and sandstone aggregates that have been chosen for their known performance and reliable quality. The cement, pigments and waterproofing agents all conform to their appropriate British or European Standard. The Regency Ashlar is created from a homogeneous mix, without using a ‘backing’ material that ensures no undue stresses are built up within the unit. The major technical performance characteristics of Regency Ashlar exceed the requirements of EN 771-5:2011 and are CE marked where appropriate, BS 1217 and the United Kingdom Cast Stone Association specification. For more information on Forticrete’s range of products, visit www. Forticrete.co.uk.

I haven’t seen my wife for three days. I don’t know whether she’s left me or gone shopping.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Looking for a Mill? Here are two ... Cliffe Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Guy Longley, Pegasus Planning Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derbyshire DE74 2SL) – Erection of 6 dwellings (including 2 affordable) – at land at Vicarage Drive, Foxton, Leics. Cotesbach Village Hall (c/o Agent: John McDermott, Thornbury, Cotesbach, Leics. LE17 4HZ) – Erection of single storey extension to side of village hall – at Village Hall, Main Street, Cotesbach, Leics. Langton Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: Kanti Chhapi, Stephen George & Partners, 170 London Road, Leicester LE2 1ND) – Demolition of former public house and erection of 6 dwellings – at The Bull’s Head, Shangton Road, Tur Langton, Leics. LE8 0PN. Lal Sangra (c/o Agent: Michael Collins Architect, 118 South Knighton Road, Leicester LE2 3LQ) – Demolition of triple garage and erection of a pair of semi-detached dwellings (Resubmission) – at Bosworth House, Berridges Lane, Husbands Bosworth, Leics. LE17 6LQ. Francis Jackson Homes Ltd (c/o: 6 High Street, Olney, Bucks. MK46 4BB) – Erection of 20 dwellings (Reserved matters) – at Goodmans Farm, Ashby Road, Gilmorton, Leics. LE17 5LY.

NW Leics. Mr J A Woodward (c/o Agent: M Ladd, Housemartin Designs, The Carthouse, Charnells Court, Main Street, Swepstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2SG) – Erection of 3 detached two-storey dwellings – at land adjoining 23 Townsend Lane, Donington Le Heath, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2GF. McCarthy & Stone Retirement Lifestyles Ltd (c/o Agent: Hazel Fox, The Planning Bureau Ltd, Unit 3, Edward Court, Broadheath, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 5GL) – Demolition of existing building and erection of 32 retirement apartments – at Former County Council Depot, Kilwardby Street, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 2FX. Miller Homes (c/o Agent: Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derbyshire DE74 2SL) – Erection of up to 70 dwellings with public open space, National Forest planting, landscaping, drainage infrastructure – at land adjoining Woodcock Way, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics.

Two large Grade II Listed Mills for sale WT GUNSON Chartered Surveyors are offering for sale two Grade II Listed mill premises, believed to have been built in the late 1800s/ early 1900s. The properties – Mutual Mills, Aspinall Street, Heywood, Lancs. OL10 4HP – are of traditional brick construction below flat asphalt roofs with brick parapets. Mill No 1 has 7 floors and a total floor area of 143,572 sq.feet. Mill No 2 has 5 floors and a total floor area of 165,974 sq.feet. Offers in the region of £2 million are invited. For more information, contact W T Gunson on 0161 833 9797 or email: agency@wtgunson.co.uk

Courses in CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Borrowash site for 5 large houses

Johnston & Mather provide a number of courses for construction industry professionals and designers, and are now the sole source for the RIBA Certificate in Construction Project Management. Most people in architecture and design, and in the construction industry generally, participate in projects, and that means joining in a management process - often one for which very little training has ever been received. The RIBA Certificate in Construction Project Management course focuses on effective techniques and procedures for meeting clients’ needs, avoiding problems and finding solutions, the culture of communication that makes this a practical possibility, and the systems and tools for the job. You can find out more on the website at www.johnstonmather. com or call them on 020 8878 6663 and ask for Shirley Douglas.

Mr Philip Chatfield (c/o Agent: Caroline Chave, Chave Planning, Enterprise Centre, Bridge Street, Derby DE1 3LD) – Erection of 36 dwellings – at land at Acresford Road, Donisthorpe, Swadlincote, Derby DE12 7PT. J T Land & Son (c/o Agent: Paul Taylor, Thomas Taylor Planning, Castle House, South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1WU) – Erection of up to 8 dwellings – at land between St John’s Football Club and 9 Ravenstone Road, Heather, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2QJ. Mr Paul Vardy (c/o Agent: Paul Thurlby, Gordon White & Hood, Beresford House, 1 Newtown Street, Leicester LE1 6WH) – Change of use to form 6 apartments including external alterations – at Former C.A.B. office, 87 Belvoir Road, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3PH. Mr B Simpson (c/o Agent: Adian Bussetil, Partners in Planning & Architecture Ltd, 10 Manor Mews, Bridge Street, St Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5UW) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings (Revised scheme) – at 30 Clements Gate, Diseworth, Derby DE74 2QE. D Kavanagh & Sons Ltd (c/o Agent: David Granger Design Ltd, The Old Dairy, Mill Street, Packington, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1WN) – Erection of single storey cafe and toilet building, formation of car park and creation of new access – at land at New Street, Measham, Leics.

Rutland Mr David Atkinson (c/o: 36A Church Street, Needingworth, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE27 4TB) – Proposed erection of building for use as a quarry railway exhibition centre – at Rutland Railway Museum, Ashwell Road, Cottesmore, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7FF.

BB&J Commercial Property Consultants are offering for sale a 0.91 acre parcel of former garden land with Outline Planning Permission (ref: ERE/0214/0040) for 5 executive style detached family homes. The site - adjacent to 6 Central Avenue, Borrowash, Derby DE72 3JZ - has consent for one detached bungalow and 4 detached houses. The asking price is £650,000. For more information, contact Chris Wright at BB&J on 01332 292825 or email: c.wright@bbandj.co.uk

Mr Jonathan Chandler (c/o Agent: Ross Thain & Co, 20 Belton Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2EF) – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings and construction of 2 new detached dwellings – at Wing Grange, Preston Road, Wing, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8SB. Mr Tim Lamb (c/o Agent: Maurice Fairhurst, Fairhurst Consultancy, 41 Wartnaby Road, Ab Kettleby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 3JJ) – Conversion of agricultural buildings to up to 3 dwellings – at Settings Farm, Pilton Road, North Luffenham, Oakham, Rutland LE15 9PD.

Insomnia is what you think you’ve got when you lie awake all night for an hour.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

East Midlands Steel Firm Unveils New £5 Million Assembly Plant Oadby & Wigston Ministry of Justice (c/o Agent: Angela Reeve, 9 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BJ) – Construction of education led Ministry of Justice establishment to accommodate 320 young people and associated facilities – at HM Young Offenders Institute Glen Parva, Tigers Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 4TN. South Wigston High School (c/o Agent: Halliday Clark Ltd, Salts Wharf, Ashley Lane, Shipley, West Yorkshire BD17 7DB) – Single storey extension to science classroom – at South Wigston High School, St Thomas Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 4TA. Mr B Dowling (c/o Agent: R Keighley, DKMY Architects Ltd, 10 Spencer Road, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1JY) – Change of use of offices to 4 self-contained apartments – at 61 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE.

Blaby Narborough Parish Council (c/o Agent: Marcus Smith, Three Counties Steel Buildings, Unit 2, Newent Business park, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1DZ) – Demolition of existing storage buildings and erection of new steelframed workshop/storage building and erection of lean-to existing facilities building – at Narborough Cemetery, Church Lane, Narborough, Leics. LE19 2GL. Calor Gas Ltd (c/o Agent: Peter Haddon & Partners, The Old Rectory, Rectory Lane, Milton malsor, Northampton NN7 3AQ) Refurbishment and extensions to single storey training centre building – at Calor Gas Ltd, Occupation Road, Stoney Stanton, Leicester LE9 4JJ. Next plc (c/o Agent: Peter Brett Associates, Oxford Place, 61 Oxford Street, Manchester M1 6EQ) – Alterations and extensions to existing office building – at Next plc, Desford Road, Enderby, Leicester LE19 4AD Mr & Mrs C Price (c/o Agent: R3Design Developments Ltd, The Glasshouse, 9 Hallam Close, Littlethorpe, Leics. LE19 2LA) – Erection of a single storey building forming an amenity block and dayroom – at 5 Grange Park, Blaby Road, Enderby, Leicester.

Charnwood Borough Hollins Strategic Land LLP (c/o Agent: Sedgwick Associates) – Site for the erection of up to 270 dwellings (Revised scheme) – at land off Hathern Road, Shepshed, Leics.

Nottingham-based Caunton Engineering is set to become one of the UK’s largest single-site structural steelwork contractors following the unveiling of The Cut Shack - a brand new £5 million purpose built plant in September. The 45,000 sq. ft. facility, located on the site of the former Moorgreen Colliery, combines leading-edge technology with state-of-the-art machinery and will help create 20 new high-end engineering jobs in what is regarded as another major step forward in the regeneration of the area. The company now enjoys an annual turnover in the region of £40 million, employs 230 people and supplies high-quality steelwork for a diverse range of UK projects including stadia for the London 2012 Olympics, the new North Stand of Leicester Tiger’s stadium and structural steelwork for the Museum of Liverpool. For more information on Caunton Engineering and the opening of The Cut Shack, visit www.caunton.co.uk.

Home Builders Federation says ‘house builders do not land bank’ House builders completely reject the accusation that they hoard land that is capable of providing new homes, according to the Home Builders’ Federation. Three independent studies in the last decade, including most recently by the Office of Fair Trading, have all concluded house builders do not land bank. Further recent evidence supports this conclusion. In HBF’s most recently survey of the larger home builders, only 4% of plots with an implementable planning permissions were on sites where production had not yet started. “The country faces a housing crisis that will take a collective effort to solve. It is unhelpful when political rhetoric centres on myths when the real challenge is how we increase housing supply. If we are to meet the new ambitious targets all parties are agreed are required, politicians need to work with the house building industry to address the constraints on housing supply,” said a spokesperson for the HBF. “We will continue to try and present the evidence to policymakers in a balanced and objective way so that we can overcome political expediency and get to grips with the issues that people actually care about.”

Donington deal short listed for national award The deal that saw the Formula E global headquarters locating at Donington Park has been short listed for a major property and regeneration award. The Donington Park deal is competing against two other finalists in the MIPIM UK and Estates Gazette Regional Deal of the Year Award.The winner will be announced at MIPIM UK- the first major event dedicated to the whole of the UK property industry, taking place on 15th- 17th October in London.For more information visit www.mipimuk.co.uk

William Davis Ltd & Persimmon Homes North Midlands (c/o Agent: RPS Planning & Development) - Outline planning permission for residential development up to 3,200 dwellings; up to 16 ha of employment land of B1/B2 and B8 uses; a mixeduse Community Hub of up to 4 ha comprising a local convenience retail unit (2,000 sqm); up to 1,000 sqm of other A1 retail, A2 financial and professional services, A3 food and drink, B1 business and D1 uses, sites for Gypsy, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople provision totalling 1 ha; 2 primary schools up to 2 ha each; strategic open space including allotments; access roads and new Strategic Link Road; open space/ landscaping and associated works; principal means of access; restoration of Garendon Park and assets; all other matters to be reserved - at land at west of Loughborough, Leics. Barrowcliffe Properties Ltd (c/o Agent: C A Underwood) – Erection of 2 dwellings (Revised scheme) – at Plots 1 & 2, land to rear of 88-90 Nottingham Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leics. LE12 8JB. Firmain Estates Ltd (c/o Agent: Amatco Design Services) – Erection of 2 detached bungalows (Revised scheme) – at land at rear of 59 Tentercroft Avenue, Syston, Leics. LE7 2EZ. Mr Graham Smith (c/o Agent: Architects LE1) – Conversion and extension of double garage to create a chalet bungalow, erection of 2 dwellings and twin garage with apartment over – at 6 & 8 Britannia Street, Shepshed, Leics. LE12 9AE.

Stapleford development site for 15 houses ROBERT ELLIS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 0.73 acre development site at Bailey Street in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire. The site - which has Outline Planning Consent (Broxtowe Borough Council ref: 12/00009/OUT) for 15 three-storey houses - currently consists of a large fenced storage yard for commercial vehicles with a further brick-built commercial unit comprising workshop premises and yard. Price on application - contact Robert Ellis Estate Agents on (0115) 949 0044 or visit www.robertellis. co.uk

My wife decided on an underwater birth. The leisure centre manager was furious.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

My kids are seven and five. We couldn’t think of better names.

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