Sept 2014 leicestershire builder magazine by Michael Wilkinson

CARTER JONAS

Ravenstone land with LEICESTERSHIRE consent for 50 dwellings

Cottons

Chartered Surveyors

NEXT AUCTION: Thursday 11th Sept 2014

Tel: 0121 247 2233 www.cottons.co.uk

CARTER JONAS Estate Agents are offering sidential Land, Heatherdevelopment Lane, Ravenstone for Development sale a parcel of residential land with consent for 50 dwellings with a new solution to grant planning permission subject to s.106 Agreement: vehicular access.

50 dwellings with new vehicular access The 8.75 acre site - at Heather Lane, Ravenstone, Outline planning permission Leicestershire - has the benefit of a resolution to grant North West District Council planningLeicestershire permission (ref: 13/00780/OUTM) subject to a Ref Section 13/00780/OUTM 106 Agreement. MoreThe information visit: www.landatravenstone.com land is being offered for sale on an unconditional Totalbasis. land area – 8.75 acres (3.54 hectares) For more information, visit www.landatravenstone.com or FFERED FOR SALE ON AN at UNCONDITIONAL BASIS contact Tristan Peck Carter Jonas on 01604 608208 or email: tristan.peck@carterjonas.co.uk orthampton 01604 608208 | tristan.peck@carterjonas.co.uk

New Service To Boost Self Build Housing

fices throughout the UK

A new service which can link self builders up with suitable local contractors has been launched by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), with the support of the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA). This new service is the first of its kind in the UK and can be accessed via links from the Self Build Portal, NaCSBA’s comprehensive online resource for self builders. Continued on page 3 ...>

MP BACKS LOCAL COALVILLE COMPANY’S NEW JOBS PLAN Andrew Bridgen, Conservative MP for North West Leicestershire, has pledged to support local company Coalville Glass in its plans to create up to 40 new jobs in the town. The family firm, which celebrated 40 years in business last year, already employs 65 people Left to right – Deborah Whitehorn, Ray Whitehorn, at its head office and manufacturing site on Old Andrew Bridgen MP and Andy Whitehorn outside Station Close off Whitwick Coalville Glass & Glazing’s current factory. Road in Coalville. But with business booming it needs to move to new premises to accommodate its ambitious growth programme which could see 40 new jobs for the town in the next two years. At a recent visit to the factory, Andrew Bridgen saw first-hand the pressure under which the business operates and pledged to help MD Ray Whitehorn and his team find bigger, better space within the town. Says Andrew: “Coalville Glass is one of the town’s many manufacturing success stories, but unless it finds new premises its future growth will be held back. Whilst North West Continued on page 4 ...>

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

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Five apprentices join Nicholls Colton Leicester-based civil engineering group Nicholls Colton has taken on five civil engineering apprentices via Stephenson College in Coalville as part of its ongoing expansion plans. The apprentices, who are all on permanent contracts, are working towards a BTEC in Civil Engineering and the Built Environment, with most intending to gain further qualifications when their apprenticeships end. Nicholls Colton, established in 1965, provides a comprehensive investigation, consultancy, laboratory analysis and structural design service to the UK and Irish construction industry across its four separate divisions in Harding Street. And, over the past 12 months it has seen employee numbers grow from 60 to 90 – in line with demand for its specialist services which include geotechnical and geoenvironmental investigation and consultancy, laboratory analysis of contaminated soils, site monitoring, structural design, materials sampling and testing for bridges, highways and railways. Nicholls Colton took on its first apprentice just under a year ago as a direct result of the college’s links with the Nottingham, Derby and Leicester branch of ICE, the Institution of Civil Engineers. Luigi Sorrentino, the company’s group policy manager, is the branch’s honorary secretary and several Stephenson College lecturers are ICE members. Luigi said: “We had got to know the Civil Engineering department through ICE events hosted by the college, and had been impressed with the modern facilities and the quality of courses on offer. “Stephenson College’s involvement in apprenticeship training for major UK civil engineering group BAM Nuttall, as well as its other strong industry links, also influenced our decision when looking for the right training provider. “Our apprentices are a breath of fresh air. Not only are they keen to learn, but they’re also happy to work as team and help each other. “Having trained, qualified civil engineers will help us to avoid a skills’ gap, and we’re now in the process of recruiting a sixth apprentice through Stephenson College.” The apprentices, who all attend college on day release, will have the chance to study for a Higher Certificate and possibly take a civil engineering degree once they qualify.

Find a Self Build Contractor Service From page 1

The five new apprentices who have joined Nicholls Colton Joe Cufflin, the firm’s first apprentice, has already gained laboratory-based experience within the business and is now working in the structural testing department’s offices. Joe, who is 17, had intended to take A levels after completing his GCSEs at Longslade School in Birstall, but, after approaching Luigi directly, was offered work in the laboratory over the summer months before starting his apprenticeship. He said: “I studied engineering at school for two years and, as part of our course, went to Stephenson College every Wednesday, so was already familiar with the college. “My granddad is an engineer and I’ve always been interested in engineering, so I thought I’d find out if there were any apprenticeships available at Nicholls Colton. “I really enjoy the work but especially like the office side. If I’m not in the office, then I’m out on site, taking samples for testing in the lab. “Since joining the company I’ve been out to a RAF base in Lincolnshire and been involved in bridge structural testing work in Oxfordshire. “The work is very varied and I would like to gain further qualifications once I’ve got my BTEC.” Apprentice Peter Kettle, liked studying maths and science but had no plans to go onto higher education after leaving John Cleveland School in Hinckley. Peter, who is 20 and from Sapcote, added: “There’s no point in going to university unless you have a clear idea of what you want to do. “By taking an apprenticeship I’ve gone straight into a job. I’m currently working in the lab and particularly like concrete crushing.

I’ve not been out of site yet but it’s a part of my training that I’m looking forward to.” Shannon Statham, who is 23 and from Barlestone, is completely unfazed at being the company’s only female apprentice. She said: “My grandma worked as an engineer on Hurricane aeroplanes for many years and was highly thought of by her boss. My uncle also works as an engineer making parts for FI cars, so engineering is definitely in my family. “I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship. We all work well together as a team and if any of us finish our task first then we see if anyone else needs help with what they’re doing.” Sixteen-year-old apprentice Joseph Punshon from Thornton was all set to take A levels after completing GCSEs at Groby Community College. He was going to study applied sciences, business studies and product design, but then the apprenticeship came up so he chose to do that instead. He said: “Working in the lab has been a great experience. The work is interesting and the college has been very helpful too. Nicholls Colton is a good place to work, and I’m pleased I’ve got the chance to stay on and gain further qualifications when my apprenticeship finishes.” And, newest apprentice Joe Pollard, is also glad that he changed direction and opted for an apprenticeship rather than taking A levels. Joe who is 18 and from Mountsorrel, said: “I’ve only been with the company a few weeks so I’m still finding my way, but I think taking an engineering apprenticeship was a good choice for me.”

The FMB’s Find a Self Build Contractor service is free to use and draws on a database of over 1,500 local contractors with design and build and self build capabilities. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Interest in self build solutions is growing stronger every day and the government is now putting in place policies which should help more people to realise the vision of building their own home. As this happens, self builders will need a pool of capable and experienced contractors and a trusted means of finding the right one. That’s why the FMB has created this service and we’re very pleased to have been able to team up with NaCSBA to deliver this through the Self Build Portal. This is the product of the building industry and self build representatives working together to facilitate the growth of self and custom build, which will improve the choice available to customers in the new homes market.” Michael Holmes, Chair of the National Custom and Self Build Association, sad: “Around half of all self-builds in the UK are carried out by main contractors on behalf of a private client. This service is the first of its kind to enable self builders to get in touch with those contractors who can offer them the specialist service they require. It should save self builders time and effort, is more likely to result in a better ‘match’ and, of course, it is a great way for FMB members to find the right clients.” Richard Bacon, MP for South Norfolk and Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Self-Build, Custom Build and Independent House building, said: “Finding a suitable builder can be a headache for many self builders who lack first-hand experience of the construction trade. This is where the FMB’s ‘Find a Self Build Contractor’ service can help you. Every builder belonging to the Federation must have satisfied a comprehensive set of background checks and also agreed to a rigorous Code of Practice and dispute resolution, offering peace of mind to potential clients. I would highly recommend that any prospective self builders draw on the Federation’s knowledge and experience to help complete their dream home.” I’ve invented a new flame-thrower. Unfortunately it hasn’t set the world on fire.

My friend lost his voice and both legs in a car accident, but he doesn’t make a song and dance about it.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Coalville Glass - continued from page 1

Wastecycle Join Up with Hi-Gear to Offer New Skip Service in Leicester Leading East Midlands resource management and recycling company Wastecycle has teamed up with HiGear Plant & Tool Hire to provide a new skip service for Leicester.

Leicestershire already has one the lowest unemployment rates in the UK, at just 2%, we always welcome the new jobs for young people and skilled workers which businesses like Coalville Glass provide.” The company, which took on five new apprentices in 2013 and plans to take on more this year, makes over 700 windows each week, most of them for major house builders right across the UK. It believes that with the right facilities it could see production top 1000 windows each week. “We’ve a fantastic workforce here, and we’re committed to Coalville, but finding the right premises to buy is proving a real challenge. We are delighted that Andrew has agreed to help us in our search,” says Ray Whitehorn. “As a successful businessman himself, Andrew understands the pressures we face. We are determined to maintain the quality of service we provide to our customers. That limits us in how much new business we can take on until we find the premises into which we can expand.”

Andy Whitehorn of Coalville Glass & Glazing showing MP Andrew Bridgen round the factory in Coalville. Ray says that if they are able to move within the town there will be no shortage of interest in their existing factory. “We’ve already had tentative enquiries from other businesses in the area which are looking to expand. If we can move and let our existing premises to another expanding business it will be a win-win situation all round for Coalville.” Says Andrew Bridgen: “I’ve said many times in parliament, that business is in business to do business, create jobs and generate wealth for communities. This government has created the economic environment in which companies can thrive and I’ll do everything I can to ensure that Coalville Glass continues to remain a key part of the successful Coalville economy.”

Dilapidated former pub with consent for 6 plots BB&J Commercial Property Consultants are offering for sale 78 Water Lane, South Normanton, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 2EE, which comprises a dilapidated former public house in site of c0.45 acres (0.18 hectares) with outline planning permission. Please note that the property has been systematically broken into where thieves have vandalised and stripped the property of copper wiring and piping etc. The premises has also been subject to a fire. Therefore internal inspections are not possible. The premises is situated in an extensive site however some of the residents on Water Lane have encroached onto this by extending their back gardens. Therefore the residential scheme has been limited to six plots. BB&J are in receipt of an offer of £75,000. Anyone wishing to place an offer should contact BB&J Commercial, 34 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3GA , tel 01332 292825, email: c.wright@bbandj.co.uk before exchange of contracts.

Wastecycle, who work with waste producers to improve efficiency, reduce costs and increase recycling, hopes the move will make it easier for builders to order skips at the same time as other plant for projects – saving them time and inconvenience. “This will make it much easier for builders as it means Hi-Gear will become a one stop shop for all their needs, be it skips, plant, tools or other equipment,” said Daniel Shearstone, Construction Development Manager at Wastecycle. “Everything they need to complete a building project will be available at one site. We are sure Hi-Gear’s customers will find it much more convenient and efficient.” Sandra Ralston, director at Hi-Gear said: “We’re thrilled to be teaming up with Wastecycle and look forward to developing a new and exciting partnership to offer our customers the highest level of service.” Wastecycle is already the first choice for skip hire in the Midlands and can provide customers with a variety of skips to suit all budgets and requirements. To find out more about the new Wastecycle skip hire service, contact HiGear on 0116 254 3999 or visit www.higear.co.uk.

Planning Minister “absolutely right” to promote bungalows The CLA has backed Housing and Planning Minister Brandon Lewis’ calls to prioritise the building of bungalows for older people, freeing up larger family homes. The organisation said for a number of years it has highlighted the lack of housing available in rural areas for older generations, leaving many with no choice but to relocate to towns. Housing and Planning CLA President Henry Robinson Minister Brandon Lewis said: “A lack of house building in the countryside has meant that for decades older people in villages have been left unable to downsize. Reluctant to move into urban areas where they would lose their support networks, they are choosing to remain in large family houses which are costly to run. “By 2021, 54 percent of households will be aged over 65 yet the current housing supply is failing to meet the needs of an ageing population. Mr Lewis is absolutely right to promote the building of bungalows which will allow older people to stay in the countryside while simultaneously freeing up family properties, and lessening the housing shortage. “The Government must not allow housing density targets designed for urban areas to limit the provision of bungalow housing in rural locations.” The organisation said it backed Mr Lewis’s calls for traditional, “quintessentially British” design in the provision of bungalows. Mr Robinson said: “Good design is crucial in all new developments and bungalows are no exception. We are happy to share with the Minister our collected examples of well designed bungalows of traditional appearance” I think the greatest trick that David Copperfield ever did was getting Charles Dickens to write a book about him before he was born.

I never drink unless I’m alone or with somebody.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Cows would live longer if they weren’t made of steak and leather jackets.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I never argue with my wife. I might win, and then there’d be a proper row.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Architectural Design Consultancy Wins Major Distribution Depot Contract

One of the East Midlands’ leading architectural design and property consultants, The Martin Design Partnership (TMDP), has been awarded a major contract to design and project manage a new chill store, packing and loading dock extension on behalf of international fruit marketing and distribution company, Worldwide Fruits. The £2.5m project, which is being built on land adjacent to Worldwide Fruits’ existing premises in Spalding will, at 30900.00 feet, become one of the largest distribution depot in Lincolnshire and house a new loading dock area designed to European specification and a state-of-the-art temperate controlled chill store. Building on its vast experience within the food manufacturer

Worldwide Fruits’ extension, well underway sector and a long established relationship with Worldwide Fruits, Leicestershire based TMDP is providing a full service package that includes architectural design, contract administration and project management services. Scott Moore, Managing Partner, TMDP said: “This is a major expansion for Worldwide Fruits and we are delighted to be an integral part of the process. The new extension will further enhance their existing operations by providing facilities that have been designed to support the company’s future growth. “Our relationship with Worldwide Fruits has flourished over the 7 years we have worked alongside them and we are looking forward to seeing the completed distribution centre up and running.”

Meet The Buyer Event

Exciting procurement opportunity for Leicestershire businesses Wates Construction, the main contractor for the Ministry of Justice’s new Secure College in Leicester, is due to host a Meet the Buyer event to give local small to medium enterprises tendering opportunities to become part of the project supply chain. The project, which will cost around £85 million, will also help give a financial boost to the local economy creating jobs and opportunities for the community. The event, which will be held at the Hilton Leicester Hotel and will be supported by Blaby District Council, will take place on Thursday 4 September between 8am and 4pm. The contractor is seeking a range of trades, from Brickwork to Steelwork. Throughout the event, project representatives from Wates will be on hand to discuss the new development and give details on how suppliers and subcontractors can become part of the contractor’s local supply chain. Those who are interested in attending are asked to register their details beforehand at securecollege@wates.co.uk.

Development opportunity in Knighton FOTHERGILL WYATT Estate Agents are offering for sale a well-located development opportunity in a popular Leicester suburb. The property – 27-29 Newmarket Street, Knighton, Leicester LE2 3WQ – has existing planning consent (ref: 20121222) for a two-bed townhouse and a three-bed detached house, both benefitting from off-road car parking. A new planning application (ref: 20141060) has been submitted to Leicester City Council for the erection of 2 semi-detached four-bed houses and 3 single storey studio apartments, all with off-road parking. For sale by Private Treaty, with a guide price of £249,950. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Fothergill Wyatt on 0116 270 5900 or email: info@fothergillwyatt.com

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

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

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

For details of our Advertising Rates: visit www.buildermagazines.co.uk

Did you hear about the guy who had a personalized number plate BAA BAA? He had a black jeep.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Partnership born in Rippon Homes recession blooms celebrates prestigious industry accolade Rippon Homes is celebrating after scooping a prestigious industry award for the East Midlands.

A partnership brought together through a project converting Grade II listed farm outbuildings into delightful village homes has been so successful both parties are keen to see it blossom further. In the grip of the now-receding housing market downturn, developer Hazelton Homes turned to Oakham-based Moores Estate Agents for help with selling its properties at its Old Hall Farm redevelopment in Cottesmore. Hazelton Homes, based at Rushton Hall near Kettering, specialises in listed building conversions and bought the Cottesmore plot in 2010, converting a range of farm outbuildings into 12 homes and adding a further 13 neighbouring new-build properties. All have since been sold. Commercial director Richard Hazelton said: “Times were tough when we started this project but this partnership made it more workable. “Moores offered us tremendous flexibility, including aspects such as out-of-hours viewing, and our partnership has been so successful we are keen to work with them in the future.” Vernon Moore, managing director of Moores, added: “The quality of the work by Hazelton Homes was second to none, making a tremendous difference to our task of selling the properties. “They captured something of the character of these historic buildings in the heart of a rural village and gave them a fresh breath of life in the modern world.” Dating back to the 16th century and believed to have been used as stables and a cottage at some point, the Grade II listed outbuildings at the Old Hall Farm had stood derelict for years. They once belonged to nearby Cottesmore Hall, which was all but

Happy to do business... Vernon Moore and Richard Hazelton at the Old Hall Farm development. destroyed in a fire in 1928 during a refurbishment. The hall was repaired and used for short spells as a home to nuns, and then for wartime evacuees, but was finally demolished in 1974 to make way for new homes in what became Cresswell Drive. One famous resident of Cottesmore Hall was the 5th Earl of Lonsdale, founder of the Automobile Association (AA) and donator of the original Lonsdale Belts, which are presented to this day to all boxers who become British champion. Hazelton Homes successfully incorporated this village heritage in the Old Hall Farm redevelopment, retaining original features such as mullion windows, original exposed timber beams and Collyweston slate roofing wherever possible, creating a new courtyard which brought life to a rundown corner of the village. The project included six designated affordable homes, saw unwanted, unsightly, steel agricultural buildings plus some derelict garages demolished, provided parking spaces for preexisting neighbouring properties, and added a new public open space for the community. Local authority planning officers noted how Hazelton’s fresh design and layout was a “significant improvement which is now considered to enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area, and not detract from the setting of the listed buildings.” Richard Hazelton added: “Bringing listed buildings back into use gives a real sense of satisfaction to everyone involved, especially with a development like Old Hall Farm where the buildings are so significant to the history of the area.”

The Mansfield-based house builder has been Highly Commended at the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Building Excellence Awards in the category of Best Customer LABC Partnership with a local authority building control team. Rippon Homes, which has been building new homes for over 60 years, beat hundreds of nominees to the title, which recognises and celebrates good partnerships between developers and the local council and is awarded to firms achieving the highest standards in the construction industry. Ian Dyke, Managing Director at Rippon Homes, comments: “We are incredibly proud to have been Highly Commended by the LABC for this prestigious industry award. “Rippon is a renowned name in Mansfield and having built new homes in the town for over 60 years, we have developed an outstanding relationship with Mansfield District Council, as well as councils in our other areas of operation. “We deliver excellence in every aspect of home building and are dedicated to delivering the highest possible standards throughout the process, from sourcing the right land to designing homes that people want to live in, our high quality craftsmanship to adding impressive finishing touches. “This is a fantastic achievement for everyone at Rippon and a huge thank you goes to all of the team for their hard work and the care and attention they devote to their individual roles.” Rippon Homes was Highly Commended for the length and strength of its partnership with the local council, the variety of its developments and the consistency of its work. To further build on its success, Rippon Homes is looking to expand its portfolio of developments by finding suitable land in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Staffordshire and South Yorkshire for its high quality bungalows and houses. Rippon is now calling on landowners with up to 10 acres of land within an hour’s commuting distance of Mansfield to contact Land Negotiator, Paula Fisher. Ian adds: “We are always interested in smaller sites on which to build mixed developments of three and four-bedroom detached homes and handpicked sites for developments of two and three-bedroom bungalows. “We pride ourselves on creating small developments that integrate well with established local communities and providing the types of homes people want to live in. “We’ve been building new homes for over 60 years, so we know what our customers want from a home and we know that starts with finding the perfect location.” If you have a piece of land, please contact Paula either by telephone on 0800 169 7644 or email paulaf@ripponhomes.co.uk.

Site for 3 bungalows in Ellistown: £175k SINCLAIR Estate Agents are offering for sale a parcel of building land with planning consent for 3 bungalows. The 826 sq.metre site is situated at the rear of 121 Whitehill Road, Ellistown, Leicestershire LE67 1ER. Planning permission (ref: 14/00282/OUT) was granted on 27th May 2014 for one three-bed detached bungalow and 2 two-bed semi-detached bungalows with garages/carports. The Guide Price is £175,000. For more information, contact Sinclairs on 01530 838338 or email: coalville@sinclairestateagents.co.uk

I took my car for a service last week. It was a real struggle getting it into the church.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

I was a man trapped in a woman’s body. Then I was born.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Quarterly Land Registry Results:

A balanced perspective on the property market Contrary to reports that investment demand in Prime Central London (PCL) residential has dissipated, the just released Land Registry statistics for Q2 2014, analysed by London Central Portfolio, have shown that global appetite continues to increase. Sales volumes reached 6,546 over the year, an increase of 19.34% over last year, the highest level since 2007. Property prices also continue to rise but with no sign of a so called ‘bubble’. The annual growth has been 10.09%. This compares with the long term average since January 1996 of 10.5% p.a., which includes the downturn during the credit crunch. This brings the average price to £1,638,456. Greater London saw stronger growth than PCL in Q2, at 12.09% vs. the previous annual quarter, however the annual growth is less, at 8.53% vs. the preceding year. The average price now stands at well over half a million pounds, at £533,489. Q2 2014 also shows a positive picture for the national housing market but not the extreme picture frequently painted by market commentators. Price growth in England and Wales in Q2 was 5.97% vs. the same quarter last year and annual growth was 4.46%. This only represents actual price growth of 15.1% since 2007. Transactions however, have increased a monumental 30.93%, almost one third over the year, resulting in the 848,767 transactions, the highest level since 2007. Naomi Heaton, CEO of LCP, specialist fund and asset managers, comments, “This suggests that the housing stock is still accessible to the domestic market and that it has been a question of waiting for more positive economic sentiment to stimulate activity. However, with the introduction of mortgage caps and the prospect of interest rises on the horizon, this increased activity may well subside”. Heaton adds, “It is a fact that the housing market tends to be self-regulating, highly sensitive to the state of the economy, employment and mortgage rates. Direct outside intervention to moderate growth is therefore uncalled for and the consequences may well not be predictable. Government actions however, such as the introduction of mortgage caps are valuable, not in cooling down the market but in ensuring that borrowing levels remain prudent and future proof ”. At £256,883, the average property price in England and Wales is now firmly over quarter of a million pounds, suggesting the Government should urgently address the jump up in stamp duty from 1% to 3% at the £250,000 price point. Heaton comments, “This would crucially help open up the market to first time buyers, for whom finding an additional £5,000 of stamp duty may make it impossible to save up for their deposit, at a time when mortgage levels are being capped on lower multiples of salary than before”.

Q2 2014 Headline Statistics Prime Central London • • •

Prices in Q2 2014 in Prime Central London reached £1,638,456 – up 11.29% over the same time last year (Q2) Average prices over the last 4 quarters have increased 10.09% vs. the preceding year Transactions are at their highest level since 2007, recording 6,546 sales over the last year, up 19.34% vs. the preceding year England & Wales

• • •

Prices in Q2 2014 in England and Wales reached £256,883 – up 5.9% over the same time last year (Q2). Average prices over the last 4 quarters have increased 4.46% vs. the preceding year Transactions are at their highest level since 2007, recording 848,767 sales over the last year, up 30.93% vs. the preceding year Greater London

• • •

Prices in Q2 2014 in Greater London reached 533,489 – up 12.09% over the same time last year (Q2) Average prices over the last 4 quarters have increased 8.53% vs. the preceding year Transactions are at their highest level since 2007, recording 116,551 over the last year, up 20.07% vs. the preceding year

Major milestone for Cradley Extra Care development

Work on the £18m Extra Care scheme in Cradley, West Midlands has reached the highest point of construction, representing a major step forward in the build programme. To officially acknowledge this milestone, Loughborough-based contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd invited representatives from project partners, Midland Heart and Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council (DMBC) on site for a ‘topping out’ photo call and bird’s eye view of the development. “We are pleased to reach such a significant step in the transformation of this 2.1 hectare site into a state-of-the-art facility,” commented William Davis’ partnerships director, Richard Cornes. “We are developing an excellent reputation for good quality work in this highly specialised sector and are pleased to be working with Midland Heart and DMBC on such a flagship scheme for the region.” Designed to promote independent living for Dudley’s over 55s, Lime Gardens, as the scheme is known, will provide a 120 bed mixed tenure apartment complex. Alongside communal leisure facilities such as

TOPPING OUT: (L-R) Carl Larter (Midland Heart); Ron Sims; Cllr. Gaye Partridge (both Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council); Matt Colloby and Richard Cornes (both William Davis Ltd) celebrate reaching the highest point of construction at Lime Gardens, Cradley. shop, restaurant, library, gym and well-being centre, the scheme will also offer 24 hour care and support for residents. Carl Larter, director of assets, Midland Heart said: “We are really excited to be able to come together to mark such an important milestone in this scheme’s development. Lime Gardens is an exemplary affordable housing scheme for the over 55’s and, once complete, it will offer residents a wide range of opportunity for involvement and provide various levels of care and support as and when they require it.” Lime Gardens is the second Extra Care scheme by William Davis for Midland Heart and is set to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, where 10% of the project’s energy will be provided from renewable/ low carbon sources. Completion is scheduled for Spring 2015.

Sileby land for 3 houses BENTONS Estate Agents are offering for sale a detached bungalow with large gardens with planning consent granted for 3 houses. The vendor of the site – which is situated at Seagrave Road, Sileby, Leicestershire LE12 7TW – has just acquired the next door property to enlarge the plot which means there may now be potential for 4 houses. The asking prices are: £350,000 for the land and £150,000 for the bungalow. The vendor wants to sell the property as a whole, and would be happy to enter into a ‘subject to planning’ sale. For more information, contact Bentons on 01664 563892.

I’ve just plucked my eyebrows. I think they’re out of tune.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

Attempting to get my tools and equipment back! Problem: Hi. I am the Managing Director of a small building contractor that specialises in the construction of bespoke houses and small volume housing developments. Earlier this year, my company commenced work on a housing development in Rutland for a developer, consisting of 4 detached houses. The development has yet to be completed, but a couple of weeks ago our employment on the scheme was terminated by the developer. Although my company is challenging the validity of the termination (foolhardy, and we did not have a written contract in place), my pressing problem is that I need to go back to the development and collect the company’s remaining equipment and tools which are still on site, albeit safely stored in a steel container (which we have hired). However, the developer will only allow us access onto site for a fee, which it wants before access is allowed. I do not want to make any payment, and I was thinking about going to the site out of hours and taking what belongs to the company. However, before I do anything that I may regret, do you have any advice? Thank you.

Kalpesh, Loughborough

Whitwick site for 2 detached bungalows SINCLAIR Estate Agents are offering for sale a substantial area of building land with planning permission (ref: 13/00334/FUL) for 2 detached bungalows and garages. The site – at the rear of 37 Silver Street, Whitwick, Leicestershire – has an area of 711 sq.metres plus the driveway. Building Regulation approval has also been granted under reference 13/3814/DOMFP, dated 22nd May 2013. The guide price is £140,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Sinclairs on 01530 838338 or email: coalville@ sinclairestateagents.co.uk

Response: Hello Kalpesh. I am sorry to hear of your dilemma, and no doubt you are eager to secure all of your tools and equipment in order to use on other sites. First and foremost, you cannot enter the site / premises without permission as this would be trespass and you could then find yourself facing a civil, and possibly a criminal, action. However, the developer has no right to retain your property, not even as a lien, and hence it must allow your company to collect its tools and equipment. Further, the developer cannot demand monies to be paid to it in order to collect your property as this would amount to unlawful conversion (defined as ‘wrongful interference with goods’ under the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977). Whilst in its custody, the developer will be under a legal obligation to take good care of your property, including providing protection and storage. If the developer believes that your company owes it money, then it must

instigate a separate action for money judgement. If the developer fails to return your property, then your company has a good cause of action (relief would be for an order for the return of the tools and equipment, plus damages). I suggest that you immediately write to the developer stating that it has no right to not return your property, and that it must come to an agreement as to a mutually agreeable date when you can collect the tools and equipment, and of course offhire the container. You should include in the letter that failure to release the tools and equipment will result in an action for damages, including any expense and costs incurred for hire charges. That said, perhaps the most conducive way forward is to learn of the sum that the developer wants, as it may be commercially sensible to pay this but under protest and without prejudice to any future claims. © 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.

Sunnyside and David Wilson Homes team up to offer homebuyers a garden gift A garden centre in Leicestershire has joined forces with one of the region’s premier developers to help homebuyers personalise their new garden. Sunnyside Garden Centre, based in Ibstock, is giving a loyalty card worth £25 to anyone who buys a new home from David Wilson Homes East Midlands, which has developments across Leicestershire. This loyalty card acts as a perfect complement to the exclusive landscaping packages offered by David Wilson Homes as part of its “Expressions” upgrade range, a tailored service allowing you to personalise your home before you move in. The loyalty card means that new home purchasers David Wilson Homes Sales Adviser, can add that extra ‘personal touch’ to their new garden Roddy Blythin (L) with the owner of or buy the tools needed to keep it looking pristine. Sunnyside Garden Centre, Alan Ginn. Alan Ginn, owner of Sunnyside, said, “We’ve built up a great relationship with David Wilson Homes over the years, having worked with them on the gardens of many of their showhomes, and we wanted to offer something to their customers who often use the showhome gardens for inspiration. “We launched the loyalty card earlier this year, and have already noticed a lot of people using it, particularly for items such as bird feeders, and garden tools for maintenance.” Sales Director of David Wilson Homes East Midlands, Steve Smith, said, “Sunnyside is a real ‘gardeners’ garden centre, and their expertise and professionalism has contributed to the high quality of our developments. “The loyalty card is a great added bonus for our customers and we are certainly encouraging them to visit Sunnyside and pick out something for their new garden.”

My grandma says she has eyes in the back of her head. I hope it’s not hereditary.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I’m reading a very unusual murder mystery. It seems the victim was shot by a man from another book.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Tel: 0116 2853 777 Leema Technologies Limited. The Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL I was drinking in town last week, so I took a bus home. It might not sound a big deal to you, but I’ve never driven a bus before.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Auction Diary

Plot in Market Harborough

September 2014

Thursday 4 September 2014 CPBIGWOOD - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 233 5046 www.bigwood.uk.com Thursday 4 September 2014 GRAHAM PENNY - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham - 11.30am start - tel: 0115 958 8702 - www.grahampenny.com Thursday 11 September 2014 -COTTONS - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@cottons.co.uk Thursday 11 September 2014 GRAHAM PENNY - at the Ipro Stadium, Derby - 11.30am start - tel: 01332 242880 - www.grahampenny. com Tuesday 30 September 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

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

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Listed building report highlights urgent need for reform, says CLA The CLA has highlighted the urgent need to reform the current “dysfunctional” listed building consent system with its backing of a new report by the Listed Buildings Initiative. The Association, whose members look after over a quarter of all listed buildings, called the independent report “shocking” but “not surprising”. Asset or Liability? Owning a listed building in the 21st century found that three quarters of respondents thought the current listed building consent system worked badly, with 80 percent saying its decisions were “illogical” or “inconsistent”. Worst of all for the long-term future of England’s 750,000 listed buildings, two-thirds thought the system “freezes” listed buildings, preventing the sympathetic changes essential to keep them valued and viable in the future. CLA Midlands rural adviser Donna Tavernor said: “This report endorses CLA members’ experiences and our own research over several years. Everyone involved in the system knows about these problems and the only practical solution is reform. After six years of discussions, in which the CLA was heavily involved, we now have sound national planning policy for heritage and listed buildings, but reform of listed building consent has made limited progress and the system is in danger of collapse as local authorities repeatedly cut the staff supposed to run it.” Urgent reforms needed and called for by the CLA include proper guidance on the listed building consent process; much more realistic technical advice from English Heritage on change to listed buildings; defining and removing from the system the usually harmless changes like replacing central heating; and a more streamlined procedure for other non-harmful changes to freeup local authority staff so they can focus on the minority of applications which might cause harm.

Hinckley site for 10 dwellings WARDS Residential are inviting offers in the region of £500,000 for an attractive parcel of development land. The 1.45 acre site – at Paddock Way, Hinckley, Leicestershire – has the benefit of planning permission, granted on appeal, for 10 dwellings, including 2 affordable homes. For more information, contact Wards Residential on 01455 251771 or email: info@wardsresidential.co.uk

ADAMS & JONES Estate Agents are offering for sale a residential building plot with planning permission granted for a luxury twobedroom house. The plot – at Patrick Street, Market Harborough, Leicestershire – has an asking price of £79,950. For further details, contact Adams & Jones on 01858 461888 or email: info@Adams-Jones.co.uk

Period detached office building in Market Harborough

LAMBERT SMITH HAMPTON are offering for sale a three storey period detached office building at 42 Coventry Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9BZ. The ground floor has previously been used as a registry office and provides for a number of cellular offices. The first floor provides for a range of large and small offices and is accessed via a separate entrance to the side of the property. The second floor provides for a further residential area subject to refurbishment with an independent entrance to the rear. The total floor area amounts to 2,040 sq.feet. The property is suitable for conversion to alternative uses such as residential, subject to the necessary consents. Offers over £250,000 are invited. For more information or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Jane Taylor at Lambert Smith Hampton on 0116 255 2694 or email: jtaylor@lsh.co.uk

My pet centipede just died. I’m not surprised: it was on its last legs.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Development site in Braybrooke: £700k

FISHER GERMAN Chartered Surveyors are offering for sale a development site with planning consent for 2 substantial five-bedroom houses, together with the existing fourbedroom detached house. The property – 16 School Lane, Braybrooke, Northamptonshire LE16 8LS – has been divided into two lots: • Lot 1: 16 School Lane – comprises a brick and rendered four-bed detached property with detached red brick outbuilding and generous grounds set in approximately 0.25 acres. PRICE: £275,000. • Lot 2: Development Site for 2 detached dwellings – planning permission (ref: KET/2012/0685 and APP/LT2820/A/13/2192189) was granted on appeal on 29 May 2013 for the erection of 2 individually designed brick and stone houses with slate roofs set in approximately 0.91 acres. PRICE: £475,000. For more information, contact Fisher German on 01858 410200 or email: Harborough@fishergerman.co.uk

Reduced supply of Residential development repossessed property sold at auction causes values opportunity in Burton to reach a new high JOHN GERMAN Estate Agents are offering for sale a residential development opportunity at Beamhill Road, Burton upon Trent DE13 9QW.

Auctioneer, Edward Swindells has said that reduced stock is responsible for a sharp increase in the average value of repossessed properties currently being sold at auction. This figure rose to £137,754,000 in the last twelve months, according to Swindells Research.

The property comprises a public house with conditional planning permission (ref: P/2014/00284) for conversion to a dwelling, plus the erection of 4 new detached dwellings with garages. The Guide Price is £650,000. For more information, contact John German on 01283 512244.

A friend of mine and his wife got caught in the housing trap. I feel a bit guilty setting it, but I wasn’t expecting visitors. I went carol singing last year. I walked round lots of houses with a lantern and nobody gave me any money at all. Still, people are busy at Easter.

However, the auctioneer has also found that the majority of banks are still trying to sell these properties as quickly as possible, thereby not allowing them to achieve their full potential price which could be up to 20% more at some auctions, according to Swindells Research. Recent figures from the Essential Information Group have shown that the majority of repossessed residential properties being sold at auction recently have achieved around 20% less than their average market value. Edward Swindells, Auctioneer at Swindells Auctioneers and MS Auctions London says: ‘In spite of an increase in average values, the majority of banks are still rushing to sell repossessed properties which could achieve a much better price if they were marketed with more than one auction house. However, most banks will still revert to placing all repossessions with the biggest brands in the industry that cannot always deliver on achieving the best possible outcome for the vendor.’ Swindells added: ‘Marketing repossessed properties with a number of different auction houses is the way to ensure they achieve their best possible price. With demand currently outweighing supply in the Capital and South East and the opposite being true in the regions, the onus is on banks to ensure they are doing everything they can to appeal to the widest pool of buyers in the market. A variety of different strategies are required to suit each individual case rather than just looking for the quickest solution.’

As a boy, I ran away with the circus, but the police made me take it back.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

RICS UK Residential Market Survey, July 2014

UK housing market ‘pauses for breath’ Demand for new homes fell slightly in July, the first monthly decline since January 2013, while the supply of new properties coming onto the market increased for the second consecutive month, according to the July RICS Significantly, Residential Market Survey.

members now expect price gains over the next year to be faster outside of the Capital, than in it.”

As a result of the rebalancing in demand and supply, house price growth across the UK appears to be moderating, with a net balance of 49% more respondents reporting an increase in prices in July (from 52% in June and 56% in May). In London, both sales and new buyer demand fell more sharply than elsewhere, with enquiries falling at their fastest rate since April 2008 and a net balance of 10% more respondents reporting an increase in prices (down from 30% in June). The average number of sales per chartered surveyor, however, increased to 24.6 (up from 21.1 at the start of the year) and sales expectations remain positive across the country, albeit a little less so than previously. While there is a little more member caution reflected in the comments, prices are still projected to rise nationally over the next year and expected to increase by 2.6% on a 12 month view (compared with around 4% at the start of the year). Surveyors in Scotland appear most optimistic, anticipating a price gain of 3.3%. Loan to Value (LtV) ratios on mortgages were little changed during the month but the results, nevertheless, show that lenders are now a little more circumspect in providing finance to the more expensive parts of the market. The average LtV mortgage for a first time buyer in the capital remained below 78% for the second successive month, which compares with an average close to 81% during the early part of the year. Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, said: “A range of policy initiatives adopted by the Bank of England in recent months alongside heightened expectations surrounding a turn in the interest rate cycle has clearly had an impact on sentiment in the market. The shift in the mood music amongst potential buyers 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.”

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The best way to remove red wine stains from a white blouse is with a pair of scissors.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Stapenhill development site: £400k NEWTON FALLOWELL Estate Agents are asking £400,000 for a development site with Outline Planning Permission (ref: P/2013/00739) for the erection of 5 large executive style 2½ storey detached houses. The site is situated at Scalpcliffe Road, Stapenhill, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, and requires the demolition of number 78 Scalpcliffe Road to provide vehicular access to the site. For more information, contact Newton Fallowell on 01283 808921 or email: burton@newtonfallowell. co.uk

Quality offices and part investment in Market Harborough

INNES ENGLAND are offering for sale Tower House, Lathkill Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 9EG. The property was originally constructed as four self-contained office buildings but has now been combined by the vendor to form one facility. Units 1-3 are vacant (3,805 sq.feet), and Unit 4 (1,888 sq.feet) will be a leaseback to the vendor at an initial rental of £14,500 per annum. The units are two-storey in design, being fully carpeted with suspended ceilings, recessed lighting with a degree of internal partitioning. The building is likely to suit an owner/occupier requiring good quality accommodation with part investment, or alternatively an investor who could subdivide the units back into their original state. An asking price of £575,000 is required for the freehold interest, subject to the leaseback to CDS Global Ltd. For more information, contact Peter Doleman at Innes England on 0116 255 5455 or email: pdoleman@innes-england.com

Transport projects dominate UK Government Construction Pipeline, says KPMG report Analysis of the UK Government’s Construction Pipeline highlights that transport projects dominate construction spend at £66.2bn, accounting for over half of the total pipeline value, according to analysis published in August by KPMG. The report, UK Government Construction Pipeline - KPMG Analysis, looks at the £116bn forecast spend by central and local government across 1,886 projects in three spend periods: 2014-16, 2016-20, and 2020 and beyond. The pipeline reveals: • Transport projects dominate the pipeline at £66.2bn, accounting for 57 per cent of the total pipeline value. This includes the cost of HS2 Phase 1 and Highways Agency schemes. • Energy projects are the second largest category by value, £14.8bn, nearly 13 per cent of the total pipeline value. The value is less than what might be expected as most energy projects in the UK are procured by the private sector, not directly by the UK Government, and consequently do not appear in the pipeline. • The highest numbers of projects are in the defence, justice and police sectors. These make up 70 per cent of the pipeline by number, yet contribute to only 7 per cent of total pipeline value. • Nearly one-third of the total number of projects are in the South-East and SouthWest, but by value, nearly half are national projects benefitting the whole of England such as HS2 and national road schemes. • 40 per cent of the projects are stated as due to complete before 2016, but these projects represent only 7 per cent of the total allocated pipeline value. Just under a fifth are due to complete after 2016 whilst a third of projects currently have no specified completion date. Richard Threlfall, KPMG’s UK Head of Infrastructure, Building and Construction said: “Our analysis of the UK Government’s Construction Pipeline shows the huge dominance of rail and road schemes in the Government’s infrastructure spend. Nearly 60 percent of the total value forecast to be spent over the next 10 years and beyond is on schemes such as HS2 and the national road network. “The total number of schemes is over 1,800, but in practice most of those schemes are individually of small value. It is concerning that a third of the total projects currently have no specified completion date as industry confidence in the pipeline would be improved if there was certainty around timescales to get schemes delivered. “We welcome the Government’s initiative in developing the Construction Pipeline, but more needs to be done to increase the completeness and robustness of the data. “We will be issuing analysis on future updates to the Pipeline and we hope that there will be improvements in the data set so it becomes a reliable planning tool against which the UK construction industry can plan and invest with confidence.

New family homes coming soon to Cosby Westleigh has begun construction work on its latest development of 22 brand new homes in the Leicestershire village of Cosby. The former haulage yard on Park Road is set to be transformed into a selection of high quality homes, from three bedroom semidetached family properties, through to four and five bedroom detached houses which will offer extensive accommodation for larger families. Each property will be finished to the highest specification with modern facilities fitted throughout. The development, which is situated in the heart of the picturesque village, will provide purchasers with the perfect combination of rural living combined with the convenience of local amenities including pubs and shops located just two to three minutes walk away. Cosby also benefits from being located close by to the larger villages and towns of Whetstone and Blaby. It also has good public transportation links with Leicester The first properties at the development will be ready to move into by spring 2015 with all homes due to be completed by the end of 2016. The popular village of Cosby is known for its thriving community and historic roots, boasting a 14th Century parish church and houses which date back to the early 17th Century. The village is also recognised for its brook which runs throughout the entirety of Cosby to the River Soar. The community has two schools, Cosby Primary School and Brooke House Day School and football, rugby and cricket teams which all participate in Leicestershire sporting leagues. Robert Orr, Sales & Marketing Manager at Westleigh Homes, commented, “We are very pleased to be able to offer families the chance to move into brand new high specification homes in this popular and pleasant village. Hardy’s Yard will lead to the regeneration of brownfield land in the area and will address the rise in demand for new housing in Leicestershire. “Although the first homes are not due to be ready for a few months, I would encourage interested homebuyers to register their interest with us now to avoid disappointment and to be kept up to date with timescales, prices and specifications when more information becomes available.” Westleigh builds contemporary new homes across the region from its base in Whetstone, and designs homes and specifications with modern lifestyles in mind. It ensures its new homes embrace existing buildings, styles and materials, whilst also ensuring the build has a minimal impact on the local environment. For further information about the Hardy’s Yard development or to register your interest call 0116 277 3324. Alternatively log on to www.westleighnewhomes.co.uk

Those push-up bras don’t work. I bought one for my girlfriend, but she can still only do 10 before her arms get tired.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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My dad was kicked to death in the pub last night. He tripped over while leading the conga.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

I once went out with a girl who had fiery red hair and a pale thin body. I met her on Match.com

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Leicester City Nilkanth Estates (c/o Agent: Simon Cretney, Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Change of use from place of worship to 24 flats plus demolition of single storey element, extension at rear and two storey extension to roof – at 3 St James Street, Leicester.

Local school names roads at Bellway development in Desford

Mr Julian Levy (c/o Agent: Lee Staniforth, Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Change of use of upper floors from offices to residential – at The 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. West London Properties (c/o Agent: RG+P London Ltd, Studio 1.20 Pill Box, 115 Coventry Road, London E2 6GG) – Eight storey building comprising two ground floor units for shop and restaurant with 38 flats on floors above – at site of 132-140 Charles Street, Leicester. N S Waites Ltd (c/o Agent: Ink/ Drawn Ltd, 9 Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZH) – Change of use from factory with rooftop extension to form 14 flats – at Henshaw Street, Leicester. Mr Robert Harrison (c/o Agent: James Richardson, 5 Albert Road, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2EA) – Single storey storage and distribution building – at Gough Road, Leicester. Lotan Ltd (c/o Agent: Stephen George & Partners, 170 London Road, Leicester LE2 1ND) – Two storey extension to factory – at 2 Ashton Close, Leicester. Mrs Miranda Lleshi (c/o Agent: DT Designs Ltd, 74 Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Single and two-storey building to provide 2 self-contained flats – at 326 Loughborough Road, Leicester. Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Levitate Architecture, 161 Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4QX) – Two storey building to side of former pump house – at Friars Mills, Bath Lane, Leicester. University of Leicester (c/o Agent: GSS Architecture, 35 Headlands, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN15 7ES) – Two storey extension to university gallery – at Richard Attenborough Centre, University of Leicester, Lancaster Road, Leicester.

Former Sunday School for conversion

JOHN GERMAN Estate Agents are offering for sale an interesting detached former Victorian Sunday School Hall with planning permission for conversion.

Primary school pupils who chose the names for a new housing development in their village were invited to watch the road signs being put into place. Children from Desford Community Primary School’s School Council teamed up with Bellway and Desford Parish Council to name the roads at The Paddocks, in Hunts Lane in the village. The children’s suggestions, Fox Covert and Bluebell Green, were passed on to Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, as part of the naming process and were selected among the final choices. Sales Director for Bellway East Midlands, Ben Smith, said: “It’s brilliant that the local school has such strong ties to The Paddocks. Most of our purchasers have been from within the village or nearby and it is important to us that our developments are truly part of the community.” Site Manager Steve Allcock arranged for the pupils to visit The Paddocks as the signs were put in place. He said: “The children enjoyed seeing their names made permanent when the signs were put in place. It’s a rare honour to have such a lasting impact on your community. We hope one day they might be moving to The Paddocks

NAMING: Bellway Site Manager Steve Allcock, back right, with staff and pupils from Desford Community Primary School with their families, or even buying a property here.” Headteacher Martin Turnham said the youngsters had embraced the challenge. “The children enjoyed the responsibility of an important job and spent a lot of time deliberating the best possible choices for the names,” he said. “It’s especially nice for the children to be able to do this as some of them live on the development already. “We were honoured that the parish council asked us to be part of this important development for the village.” As part of its planning agreement for The Paddocks, Bellway will contribute £555,000 towards education and create a playarea and public open space within the site. The Paddocks is a development of four and five-bedroom houses, with prices starting at £219,995 for four-bedroom houses. The site was opened to the public in November and the showhome opened in February.

Bungalow plot in Arnold: £70k DAVID JAMES Estate Agents are inviting offers in the region of £70,000 for a building plot with Outline Planning Permission to erect a three-bedroom bungalow. The plot – at Baker Avenue, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 8FU – measures 100ft long by 46 ft wide, and is situated at the end of a private drive. For more information, contact David James on 0115 955 5550 or visit www.david-james.com

The property - in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire - is being offered in two lots. Lot 1 will comprise the front of the building comprising on the ground floor the entrance foyer, ground floor rooms to the left with Planning Consent for a one bedroom apartment, rooms to the right, subject to a pending Application for conversion to a studio apartment, and to the whole first floor a recently converted good quality two bedroom penthouse apartment which is currently Let by John German on a 6 month Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement at £550 pcm from 28th June 2013. Guide Price: £200,000 Lot 2 will comprise the remaining rear part of the building which has Planning Consent (Ref P/2013/00830) for conversion to 4 x 3 bedroom luxury duplex apartments with separate access, together with the rear two storey part on which a Planning Application has been made for conversion to 4 x 1 bedroom apartments and upon which a decision is await from East Staffordshire Borough Council. Guide Price: £150,000. For more information, contact John German on 01283 512244 or email: burton@johngerman.co.uk

My mum takes things literally. The other day I said I’d like a cup of tea. She said, ‘Shall I make a pot?’ I said, ‘Yes, please.’ And she was gone for half an hour trying to heat up the kiln. I went to a drive-in movie last night. I didn’t see much. There was a bloke in the front row in a combine harvester.

My dentist makes the best false teeth. They’re so lifelike, they even ache.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Retro Sweets

Wordsearch Puzzle S N T O R K U X K L K U W E Q P G M If you can find the names of 12 varieties of old-fashioned sweets 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 12 types of retro sweets. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: TOO GOOD TO hURRY MINTS, Leicestershire Builder, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 20th September 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!

B P G S U E K N B W K T O L A S P L

N R O B U F F W V W Z J I R J M Z P

K U L R P D I R K R A B M L K U F F

V V W A D C E F E K D A V X A G K O

I C E M E W T C O S V T B Q A L J R

O Y M U D M O O A I H U U A T A F Q

X G A R Z U Z B O P L E A K T R Z V

L W P R Q A O L N L S D R X Y O U O

S L L A B D E E S I N A P S O L L G

E W Z Y N T T E H O A I E D J F R H

G A M M S F Y G N A P R A E O J B Z

Q C B I C E L G C W G U R C C J O A

D I S N S P C S Z K K N D P X L I F

R T G T R S L B Z K F H R V H B L T

F S G S E B K A R V U Y O Z G W Q A

M I D G E T G E M S U Z P G O W M W

S P O R D D I C A R S A S C C J A I

Here are the 12 Retro Sweets you have to find: ACID DROPS • ANISEED BALLS • BAZOOKA JOE ACIDDROPS ANISEEDBALLS BULLS EYES • FLORAL GUMS • MIDGET GEMS BAZOOKAJOE MURRAY MINTS • PARMA VIOLETS • PEAR DROPS BULLSEYES RAINBOW DROPS • REFRESHERS • SPACE DUST FLORALGUMS MIDGETGEMS MURRAYMINTS Name: .............................................................................................................. PARMAVIOLETS PEARDROPS RAINBOWDROPS Address: ............................................................................................................. REFRESHERS SPACEDUST .............................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner:

Created by Puzzlemaker at D

OWEN LEE, of Newton Lane, Wigston, Leicester

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

I don’t see how these new light bulbs save energy. I still have to get up and switch them on.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Tofts Hill Building plot, Stathern

Farm buildings with consent for conversion

Leicester City (cont.) Sowden Group Ltd (c/o Agent: Franklin Ellis Architects, The Old Pumphouse, 5 The Ropewalk, Nottingham NG1 5DU) – Mixed use development to include a food store, non-food retail outlet (with associated sports pitch), 150 apartments and associated parking and servicing – at Vaughan Way, Leicester. Mr Iqbal Gaffar (c/o Agent: Ink/ Drawn Ltd, 9 Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZH) – Demolition of existing factory building and redevelopment with a two and three-storey building of 26 one-bed self-contained flats – at 7 Nugent Street, Leicester.

Planning approval has now been received for a 3 bedroom house on the edge of this sought after village, situated in the Vale of Belvoir. Guide price £95,000. Expressions of interest to: toftshillbuildingplot@gmail.com

JOHN GERMAN Estate Agents are offering for sale a Grade II Listed farmhouse, cottage and range of barns with Listed Consent and Detailed Planning Consent for conversion to create three new character properties, together with a new detached dwelling in the grounds. The property – Spring Farm, Brook Street, Hartshorne, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 7AH – lies at the bottom of Brook Street adjacent to and overlooking farmland, a short distance from the village centre. The Guide Price is £375,000. For more information, contact John German on 01283 512244 or email: burton@johngerman.co.uk

Lord Prescott confirms his backing for Genie on visit to the North East FORMER Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has visited people benefiting from the innovative Sunderland-based home purchase plan Genie, and says the scheme should be made available to thousands of people in the UK. Lord Prescott was invited to see Genie at work after he praised the scheme in his national newspaper column, calling it “a brilliant idea”. Genie is run by profit-for-purpose North East social business Gentoo Group, and was the brainchild of Chief Executive Peter Walls, who was concerned about how difficult it was becoming for people to own their own home. Genie buys a property then enters into a longFORMER Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott term agreement with a customer with a 30-year with the Watson family in Sunderland payment plan that ends with the customer owning the house. During the term of the agreement the customer has the same rights as a homeowner. Customers pay no deposit and to date have not had to pay stamp duty. After a briefing on the scheme, Lord Prescott visited Genie homeowners Ben and Lucy Watson, followed by Lorrie Haig and David Newton. Both couples live in Doxford Park, Sunderland, with their children. Lord Prescott said: “I was enthusiastic about this scheme before I came here, but meeting people face to face really brings home the benefits that Genie provides. “The Genie scheme means people don’t have to find a deposit. They also know exactly how much they will be paying for five years, which is more than people on a mortgage can say. “The first five years of home ownership can be tough for families, and it’s great that with Genie they can own their own home and use their savings to buy furniture and carpets and the rest of the things they need. “I’ve been delighted to see the children out playing in their gardens today – the future of our children is what this scheme is all about. “I’ll continue to press for Genie to be extended right across the country. It’s something that should be available to thousands of people in the UK.”

I jogged backwards last week and put on five pounds.

Mr C Page (c/o Agent: Laura Hayward Architect, 2 Gloucester Crescent, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0AQ) – Erection of two dwellings – at land to the rear of 14 Knighton Park Road, Leicester. Leicester City Council Property Dept. (c/o Agent: A+G Architects Ltd, 11 Leicester Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 2AE) – Two storey extension to school – at St Marys Fields Infant School, Heyworth Road, Leicester. Mrs Urvashi Radia (c/o: 438 London Road, Leicester LE1 2PP) – Three storey block of two flats with external staircase – at 438 London Road, Leicester. Campbell Property UK Ltd (c/o Agent: Willmore Iles Architects, 267 Hotwell Road, Hotwells, Bristol BS8 4SF) – Change of use from offices to student accommodation comprising 107 bed spaces in 22 flats, plus extension to side at first and second floor – at 31 Lower Brown Street, Leicester. Mr Viresh Popat (c/o Agent: Zone Development, Zone Office, 72-74 Western Road, Leicester LE3 0GE) – Change of use from offices to student accommodation comprising 18 studio flats to link to existing student flats at 136-138 New Walk – at 134-138 New Walk, Leicester.

Hinckley & Bosworth Mr Nigel Harris (c/o Agent: Enigma Planning, Unit 1A Cedars Business Park, Butt Lane, Normanton on Soar, Nottinghamshire LE12 5EE) – Erection of 7 dwellings – at land south of Well Lane, Hinckley, Leics. Elmleigh Properties Ltd (c/o Agent: Thomas Glenn, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Innovation Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Demolition of existing public house and erection of 8 dwellings – at The Boot & Shoe, 27A Moore Road, Barwell, Leicester LE9 8AF.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Work begins on main building at Wheatsheaf Works in Leicester

Hinckley & Bosworth (Cont)

Bellway welcomes new Sales Advisor

Mr Colin Muller (c/o Agent: Darren Curry Architects, 19B Jack Lane, Davenham, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 8LA) – Demolition of existing factory and erection of 8 dwellings – at Hosiery Factory, Barton Road, Barlestone, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0EP. Mr Steve Marriott (c/o Agent: Anil Chauhan, Leicestershire County Council, Corporate Resources – Property, County Hall, Leicester Road, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8RA) – Single storey pitch-roofed traditional build two-classroom extension – at Burbage CE Infant School, Grove Road, Burbage, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 2AE. Mr Richard Brooks (c/o Agent: Stephen Lester, Designed Developments, 15 Church Lane, Ratby, Leicester LE6 0JF) – Conversion of existing barns to form 2 residential dwellings – at Holywell Farm, Desford Lane, Ratby, Leicester LE6 0LE. Mr Jason Leech (c/o Agent: Malcolm Goodall, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Demolition of existing factory and erection of 13 dwellings – at 40 High Street, Earl Shilton, Leicester LE9 7DG.

Melton Borough Mrs J Oliver (c/o Agent: F W Keyworth, 5 Adcock Close, Meton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1UU) – Conversion of Methodist Church and School Room into a single storey 2-bed dwelling – at Ab Kettleby Methodist Church, Chapel Lane, Ab Kettleby, Leics. LE14 3HS. Mr & Mrs P Swift (c/o Agent: Nick Cooper, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Innovation Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray Leics. LE13 0PB) – Outline application for the erection of 10 dwellings – at land at the rear of 25-53 Ankle Hill, Melton Mowbray, Leics. Property Union (c/o Agent: E M Architecture, The Studio, Adjacent to Bridge House, Gledhow Lane, Leeds) – Change of use (in part) of 2 commercial units to 2 residential apartments – at The George Hotel, 8 High Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Bryan Cather, Longworth Associates, The Coach House, 21 Cotgrave Lane, Tollerton, Nottingham) – Development of remaining site to form new commercial premises – at land adjacent to Belvoir Brewery, Station Road, Old Dalby, Leics.

Work has started on the third phase of new homes at the iconic former Co-operative Boot and Shoe Factory, in Leicester.

Commercial Director Richard Hazelton outside the main factory building

Quarter three of the development will see work start on the main Grade II listed factory building at the site, which will contain a mixture of chic apartments, townhouses and studios. Urban Rhythm, which is a division of Northamptonshire-based Hazelton Homes, recently won the Building for Life Diamond Status award for their renovation of the former factory buildings, which are situated just off of Wordsworth Road, in Knighton Fields. The Wheatsheaf Works development will boast 172 new properties once completed, ranging in size from one to three bedroom homes. The Neo-Jacobean buildings had been derelict since the closure of the factory in 1985. More than half of the properties will be based around a large, landscaped courtyard. Commercial Director Richard Hazelton said that it was very exciting to be able to see the project come to life. He said: “We are extremely excited about this development and it is great to see it starting to really take shape. “We hope the development will appeal to a wide range of prospective buyers. The development is in a great location and offers a good mixture of new properties. “The buildings that we are renovating are fantastic pieces of architecture, and preserving their character and history was paramount for us when designing the development. “We are very proud to be revitalising such an iconic building, and we can’t wait to see the finished product.” Work started at the development in 2011 and families have already moved into homes in the first two phases of the redevelopment of the shoe factory, which was one of the biggest in the world when it opened in 1861. In March, a reunion was held for former factory workers and their families at the site, and Urban Rhythm hopes to make a mini museum at the site about the history of the building, complete with old photos and mementos. For more details about the development, see www.wheatsheafworks.com, visit the showhome in Wordsworth Road, off Welford Road from Thursday to Saturday or on Mondays, or call 0116 210 0765.

Building plot in Midway: £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, Near Swadlincote, Derbyshire – is in an excellent position with lovely country rural views and occupies a cul-de-sac location. The asking price is £52,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Your Move on 01283 219892 or email: Swadlincote@Your-Move.co.uk

Bellway has welcomed a new member to the team at The Greens in Hinckley. Sales Advisor Tanya Smith has taken the helm at The Greens, a development of three, four and five-bedroom homes overlooking Hinckley Golf Course. Tanya joined Bellway at a crucial time as the company continues its expansion. The East Midlands division has created 30 jobs over the past year. Tanya said: “I’m very excited to have joined Bellway. The company has a first class reputation as an employer and is known for its high standards of customer care, so it was a privilege to be chosen to join the team. “Everyone at Bellway has been really welcoming as I’ve settled in. There’s a fantastic team spirit and lots of support.” Tanya had been selling houses for two years in her previous role and has been getting to know new and existing customers at The Greens. She said: “When you hand over the keys to someone’s new home it’s a fantastic feeling. “This is the most important purchase most people will ever make. That brings a huge amount of responsibility but there’s nothing quite like watching someone smiling as they walk through the door to their new home.” Sales Director for Bellway East Midlands, Ben Smith, said: “Tanya has settled in brilliantly and is a real asset to the team. Her knowledge of the industry is first class and she’s proving a real hit with buyers. “She has already demonstrated she will go the extra mile to ensure her purchasers are happy.” Bellway is one of the country’s top five housebuilders. The firm recently retained five star builder status following a rigorous annual assessment by the Home Builders Federation.

Bad news for agoraphobics - a cure is just around the corner.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 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

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Did you know it takes 40 pigs to make 4,000 sausages? Isn’t it amazing what you can teach them?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

My mate rang me and said: ‘ What are you doing at the moment?’ I said: ‘Probably failing my driving test.’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Harborough District Hallam Land Management (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning, 1 Meridian South, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WY) – Business use development with associated infrastructure – at land north of Lutterworth Road, Lutterworth, Leics. Prime Life Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: Corporate Architecture, Venari House, Trimbush Way, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7XY) – Erection of a three-storey B1 office premises – at Development 5, Peaker Park, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leics. Mrs L Burditt (c/o Agent: Stephen Mair, Andrew Granger & Co, Phoenix House, 52 High Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7AF) – Demolition of agricultural barns and buildings and erection of 4 detached dwellings (resubmission) – at The Farm, Old Hall Lane, Lubenham, Leics. LE16 9TJ. Bloor Homes Ltd (c/o Unnamed Agent, Cornwall Buildings, 45-51 Newhall Street, Birmingham B3 3QR) – Development of up to 275 dwellings and up to 500 sq metres of retail use (Revised scheme) – at land at Uppingham Road, Bushby, Leicester. Mr Rajan Uppal (c/o Agent: Chris Woods, BRP Architects, 1 Millers Yard, Roman Way, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7PW) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings and garages, formation of woodland, tree-lined avenue and paddock – at land at Gatehouse Lane, Caldecott Road, Great Easton, Leics.

University addresses construction industry skills shortage A shortage of problem-solving skills in the construction industry is preventing professionals from advancing within their careers, prompting a new initiative between Birmingham City University and Mott MacDonald Ltd. Starting next month, the University and the global engineering, management and development consultants are pioneering a new approach to develop the ‘softer skills’ considered to be in short supply across the construction industry. Birmingham City University’s Professor Nick Morton said: “Students securing places at the University’s School of the Built Environment will have the opportunity to gain direct experience of both construction and people skills with Mott MacDonald in Birmingham’s projects around the UK. The construction industry needs problem solvers with the skills to enable them to develop the talents of others and to recognise their own strengths for future opportunities.” Martin Perks, Divisional Director for Mott MacDonald, said: “We have great people in our industry with superb technical skills but that is only part of the picture. We know too that the softer skills increasingly needed to develop people’s potential and solve problems as they arise are in short supply. Our business is growing rapidly and through our ground-breaking partnership with Birmingham City University we are seeking to attract and nurture the ‘next generation’ of talent into a fulfilling and rewarding career with our company.” Students at BCU’s School of the Built Environment will also be given a chance to take part in a major international construction competition hosted by the University. Mott MacDonald will sponsor the event. The courses kick off in September and applicants wishing to apply for a place can use the ongoing Clearing process by calling 0121 331 6777.

Redundant pub for sale in Thorpe Satchville

Rutland County Mr Robert Jeynes (c/o Agent: Giles Crust, Steenkiel Hal, Stone Pit Lane, Skendleby, Spilsby, Lincs. PE23 4QB) – Conversion of agricultural buildings into 3 detached dwellings – at barns to the rear of No.10 Reeves Lane, Wing, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8SD. Mr David Hollis (c/o Agent: Simon Evans, Wardle Evans, 25 Alamein Close, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire EN10 7TF) – Residential development comprising 13 private dwellinghouses and 7 affordable homes – at land north of Rogues Lane, Cottesmore, Rutland.

N W Leics District Mr Alan Poynton (c/o Agent: Luke Kenney, Staniforth Architects Ltd, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Demolition of existing garage, petrol forecourt, service buildings and existing house and erection of 9 dwellings (Reserved matters) – at Tudor Motors, 175 Leicester Road, New Packington, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1TR.

Shoulers Estate Agents are offering for sale a redundant 1930s-built public house situated in the centre of the hilltop village of Thorpe satchville to the south of Melton Mowbray. The property – The Fox, Main Street, Thorpe Satchville, Leicestershire LE14 2DQ – stands on a plot of just under half an acre and offers possibilities to redevelop, subject to planning. For further details, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or email: housesales@shoulers.co.uk

If you want to confuse them in a charity shop, just hold up one of their old shoes and say, ‘Have you got this in a 9?’

Nursery Gardens Among Best Developments In The Country

A new homes development from David Wilson Homes in Measham has been given a prestigious quality mark for safety, community and design, awarded to just a few other sites in the country. Nursery Gardens, a collection of 61 three and four bedroom homes on Bosworth Road, achieved Built for Life status after receiving full marks in a new accreditation system endorsed by the Government for well-designed homes and neighbourhoods, The Built for Life distinction is the new industry standard, and shows how developments integrate into their existing surroundings, creating an attractive place to call home and a safe and secure environment in which to live. Homes at Nursery Gardens have been designed to be sympathetic to their surroundings, incorporating Victorian features from established properties in Measham, including arches above front doors and attractive bay windows. Nursery Gardens has also been praised for the design of its main road, which provides easy access to the entire site while encouraging drivers to slow down due to sharp bends and different road textures. As well as building new homes David Wilson Homes East Midlands is contributing more than £200,000 to fund community projects in Measham, including travel passes, improvements to educational facilities, public open spaces, and the continued development of local healthcare. Nursery Gardens also underpins over 100 new jobs in the local area and beyond. Located on the edge of open countryside, and close to three local schools, shops and other conveniences, Nursery Gardens also benefits from good transport links to the M42 and other major routes. For more information about Built for Life, including details of how Nursery Gardens achieved all 12 Built for Life categories, please visit www.builtforlifehomes.org

We have period furniture. We keep it for a period, then send it back.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

N W Leics District (cont) Heather House Development Limited (c/o Agent: Housemartin Design, The Carthouse, Charnells Court, Main Street, Swepstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2SG) – Extension and alterations of 8 existing flats to form 5 residential dwellings – at Heather House, St Johns Close, Heather, Leics. Uptown Property Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: Ben Lander, Pegasus Group, 5 The Priory, Old London Road, Canwell, Sutton Coldfield, B75 5SH) – Demolition of existing garage building and erection of 4 dwellings – at The Swan Inn, 107 High Street, Measham, Swadlincote, Derby DE12 7JB. Electract Ltd (c/o Agent: C.A.Underwood, The Barn, Church Lane, Ravenstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2AE) – Two storey office extension – at Electract Ltd, Walker Road, Bardon Hill, Coalville, Leics. LE67 1TU. Mr Mark Dalby (c/o Agent: Ben Bowley, Marchini Curran Associates, 54a High Pavement, Nottingham NG1 1HW) – Demolition of existing garage for proposed food and non-food retail development with additional restaurant uses together with ancillary access, parking and servicing – at Motors Limited, Whitwick Road, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3FA. Ben Bailey Homes (c/o: Dale House, 9 Tallys End, Barlborough, Chesterfield S43 4WP) – Demolition of former soap factory building and erection of 37 dwellings without complying with conditions 2,5 and 34 of permission 13/00517/FULM – at Former site of Standard Soap Co.Ltd, Derby Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics.

Oadby & Wigston GG & SI Properties (c/o Agent: M.Wormleighton, Vernon Road, Leicester LE2 8GB) – Erection of 2 semi-detached bungalows – at land to the rear of 116 & 118 Saffron Road, Wigston Leicester LE18 4UP Goliath Developments (c/o: Richard Wright, Lydmore House, St Anns Fort, Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2EU) – Conversion of current office building to mixed use and residential flats with additional two storey extension above the existing building – at Stoughton House, Harborough Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4LP. Methodist Homes for the Aged (c/o Agent: A A Design Ltd, Unit 2, Aizlewood Road, Sheffield S8 0YZ) – Conversion of former care home to 5 flats – at Aigburth RH, 21 Manor Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 2LL

North Kilworth building plot JAMES SELLICKS Estate Agents are offering for sale a building plot with planning permission (Harborough District Council ref: 13/01500/ FUL) for a two-storey fourbedroom detached house. The site – Off Green Lane, North Kilworth, Leicestershire LE17 6EP – extends to approximately 0.17 acres. Situated on the site is a brick built single storey open sided barn to provide a triple tandem garage. The Guide Price is £210,000. For more information, contact James Sellicks on 0116 285 4554 or email: info@jamessellicks.com

Hucknall land with lapsed consent for 15 houses FHP Property Consultants are inviting offers in excess of £500,000 for 0.8 acres of surplus land at 100 Nottingham Road, Hucknall, Nottingham NG15 7QE. The 0.8 acre site comprises a field which is of regular shape and believed to be clean and clear. It is located in a prominent position on Nottingham Road (A611) adjacent to Hucknall Day Nursery and opposite the Premier Inn. It has historically been used in conjunction with the nursery but is now surplus to requirement. The site has previously benefitted from Outline Planning Consent for 15 units which was secured in 2004. This consent has expired, but the current owners have resubmitted the planning application and a decision is imminent. A Section 106 contribution equating to £2,500 per unit will be payable as a condition of the planning (ref: Ashfield District Council: V/2014/0340). Offers in excess of £500,000 are invited on a conditional or unconditional basis. The site is not VAT elected. For more information, contact Ann Taylor at FHP on 07557 972008 or email: ann@fhpliving.co.uk

Workshop and offices for sale SPENCERS DRUCE are inviting offers in the region of £125,000 for a former works yard, workshop and offices at 26-30 Webster Road, Braunstone, Leicester LE3 1RF. Accommodation: • Workshop 969 sq feet • Offices 914 sq.feet Total: 1,883 sq.feet For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Spencers Druce Naylor Parkes on 0116 255 8888 or email: mholt@ spencersdruce.co.uk

New homes now available at developments in Sapcote and Whetstone

Homebuyers are being given a great opportunity to own a new home in Leicestershire, as David Wilson Homes launched two brand new developments in August. The new developments, Sapcote Lea in Sapcote and Whetstone Park in Whetstone, will each feature a broad selection of traditionallydesigned starter and family homes offering the notable David Wilson Homes trademarks of space, imaginative design and natural light. Sapcote Lea is located on Grace Road in the Leicestershire village of Sapcote near Hinckley and will feature a selection of two bedroom bungalows and coach houses as well as larger three, four and five bedroom homes perfect for a variety of homebuyers. Whetstone Park is located on Springwell Lane in the quiet village of Whetstone, just south of Leicester and will feature a broad selection of two, three, four and five bedroom homes, ideal for firsttime buyers and growing families alike. Steve Smith, Sales Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said, “We are really excited about the launch of our two latest Leicestershire developments, which will provide a total of 97 new homes to Sapcote and 150 new homes to Whetstone over the coming years, underpinning approximately 500 jobs across the two areas.”

I was a rubbish church window cleaner. I got rid of all the stains. So I said to this policeman, ‘You look like a tube of Evo Stik.’ He arrested me for solvent abuse.

I’ve just invented a wireless, battery-free, hand-operated hair-dryer. I’m calling it a towel.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I used to wear a flower in my lapel but I stopped because the pot kept banging on my belt.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

At what age do you think it’s appropriate to tell a road it’s adopted?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Oadby & Wigston (cont) Goliath Developments (c/o Agent: Ryan Astill, Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Conversion of former offices to 11 flats to include single storey side extension – at Brooks House, 81 Leicester Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4AN.

Blaby District Everards Brewery Ltd (c/o Agent: Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Erection of single storey building comprising 2 retail units and associated parking – at land adjacent to The Dominion, Dominion Road, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8FB EMH Housing and Regeneration Ltd (c/o Agent: KPW Architects, 170 Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QA) – Erection of 2 semi-detached dwellings and associated parking – at land adjacent to 43 Queens Drive, Enderby, Leicester LE19 2LL. M & C Tyler & Attard (c/o Agent: Wilbraham Associates Ltd, 18A Regent Place, Rugby, Warks. CV21 2PN) – Erection of 3 dwellings – at land to rear of Roadley House Farm, 8 Leicester Road, Sharnford, Leics. LE10 3PR. Finsons (Builders) Ltd (c/o: 88A Footners Lane, Burton, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 7NR) – Erection of 3 detached dwellings – at land at Fosse Close, Enderby, Leicester.

Charnwood Mr Christopher Bentley (c/o Agent: Freeths LLP) – Demolition of single storey building to rear and conversion and two-storey extension to dwelling to form 6 flats – at 10 Sparrow Hill, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 1BT. West End Properties (c/o Agent: RG+P) – Change of use from agricultural to 2 dwellings – at Bybrook Hall, Leicester Lane, Swithland, Leics. LE12 8TD. Gladman Developments Ltd – Outline application for up to 180 dwellings with associated access – at land off Tickow Lane, Shepshed, Leics. Mountsorrel War Memorial Trust Ltd & Mountsorrel Parish Council (c/o Agent: Franklin Ellis Architects) – Erection of memorial centre and associated works – at Soar Valley Centre, Kingfisher Road, Mountsorrel, Leics. LE12 7FN.

Potential residential development project in Beeston FHP Property Consultants are inviting offers over £800,000 for a substantial 6-bedroom house with potential for renovation or residential development. The property – 7a Middleton Crescent, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2TH – benefits from two double garages, a generous driveway and significant gardens on a site of 2.271 acres. Under planning reference 09/00289/FUL dated 13 October 2009, a planning application was submitted to Broxtowe Council and Nottingham City Council for the demolition of 7a Middleton Crescent and 61 Wollaton Vale to allow construction of 10 houses and 11 apartments with vehicular access from Wollaton Vale. The application was declined and an appeal was made, but an Inspector’s report dismissed the appeal. In the opinion of the selling agents, interested parties need to consider a more viable density and development for the location. Perhaps a development of detached 4/5 bedroom dwellings for circa 10-12 houses such as the indicative layout shown here, produced by Marchini Curran Associates. Unconditional offers in excess of £800,000 are invited. For more information, contact Stephen Gillott at FHP on 0115 841 1133 or email: steve@fhp.co.uk

Forest Hill Golf Club is for sale at £2m Colliers International’s Parks team has been instructed by a private client to sell Forest Hill Golf & Conference Centre in Botcheston, Leicestershire, for offers over £2 million. Forest Hill Golf & Conference Centre underwent a major capital investment program; the property’s facilities include a par 73 18-hole, 6,490 yard, championship golf course, a flood lit 26 bay driving range, as well as a 11,700 sq ft clubhouse. The property is set in the National Forest, with the golf course occupying an undulating mature semi-wooded landscape. Forest Hill has three function rooms, with capacity for 20 to 200 guests, as well as a bar and restaurant. Additionally, the club supports an established food and beverage trade, including a Sunday carvery. Richard Moss, Head of UK Parks Agency, Colliers International commented: “The team is excited to take this superbly located golf course and conference centre to market, we expect to receive high levels of interest and offers exceeding the asking price of £2 million. “Forest Hill Golf Club has a prime location situated in the National Forest; the course is set in mature woodland with ornamental lakes and natural hazards, making it an extremely popular destination for golfers and nongolfers alike.”

Tradesmen shatter their stereotype image White Van Men have completely shaken off the stereotype image of ill-mannered, dangerousdriving cowboys according to new research. The study of 10,000 tradespeople and 1,000 customers by IronmongeryDirect shows that in reality the tradespeople of 2014 are almost the exact opposite of the old-fashioned image of the White Van Man…..in fact the majority of their vans aren’t even white (52%). The average tradesperson, typically branded as a “White Van Man”, in 2014 (6% of whom are actually White Van Women) is 46 years old, self-employed and also employ 2 other people. Those who drink, prefer a pint of real ale to lager, and they are most likely to have Ken Bruce’s Radio 2 show playing while getting on with their job. Their biggest passion is taking pride in doing a good job. What’s more, their customers agree. The average customer in 2014 reports that, in their experience, tradespeople give honest and accurate advice, turn up on time and charge a fair price. The majority of the public agree that none of the myths about White Van Men are true; in that they don’t wolf whistle, drive dangerously or deliver poor workmanship. In fact, the modern tradesperson is a sensitive, intellectual sort - in the evening they are more likely to relax watching an interesting documentary than the footy, and a romantic 53% say their favourite pastime is spending quality time with their partner. Wayne Lysaght-Mason, managing director at IronmongeryDirect, comments: “White Van Men are serious entrepreneurs, often with responsibility for not only their own incomes, but for those of their employees too. They play a key role in local economies across the UK are highly skilled and twice as likely to have regular training to keep them on top of their game than people doing other jobs.” Other facts about the UK’s White Van Men: • The full English fry up is a thing of the past – just 3% start the day this way. 30% have a healthy bowl of cereal for breakfast. • 47% listen to Radio 2 – the top listening choice of White Van Men. • They really love their jobs – on average White Van Men rate their love for their job as 8 out of 10.

I don’t understand speed bumps. If anything, they slow you down!

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Charnwood (cont) Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Paul Cleaver Architect) – Site for the erection of up to 4 dwellings – at land adjacent to Mere Lane, Queniborough, Leics. 3R Construction & Property Development Ltd (c/o Agent: A+G Architects Ltd) – Erection of 2½ storey building to provide 6 flats – at land adjacent to True Lovers Walk, Loughborough, Leics. Mr K Landers (c/o Agent: Amatco Design Services) – Erection of 2 detached bungalows – at 59 Tentercroft Avenue, Syston, Leicester LE7 2EZ. David Wilson Homes East Midlands (c/o Agent: Bidwells) – Request for screening opinion for proposed residential development of up to 200 dwellings – at land off Westfield Lane, Rothley, Leics. Frontier Estates (Essex) Ltd & Cinnamon Care Capital (c/o Agent: Turley) – Erection of a residential care home with 72 bedrooms – at Local Centre Site, Hallam Fields Road, Birstall, Leicester. Willmott Dixon Housing Ltd (c/o Agent: HLP Architects) – Refurbishment, remodelling and twostorey extension to provide a total of 29 self-contained flats – at Riverside Court, Riversdale Close, Birstall, Leicester. Mr Richard Waldron (c/o Agent: Peart Bradley Architects) – Erection of detached two-storey building to rear of site to provide 6 hotel bedrooms – at White Horse, Ashby Road West, Shepshed, Leics.

Leicester plot for three-bed detached KAL SANGRA Shonki Brothers Estate Agents are offering for sale a building plot with planning permission for a three-bed detached house and two parking spaces. The plot – adjacent to 1 Abingdon Road, Leicester LE2 1HA – is a level site of approximately 178 sq.yards. The asking price is £65,000. For more information, contact Kal Sangra Shonki Brothers on 0116 254 3373 or visit: www. shonkibrothers.com

Site with planning permission for 54 houses FHP Property Consultants are inviting offers over £1 million for a 3.35 acre site with Outline Planning Consent for 54 houses. The site – Codnor Park, Parkside Close, Ironville, Derbyshire NG16 5PT – has Outline Planning Consent (Amber Valley ref: AVA/2013/0129) for 33 two-bed houses and 21 three-bed houses. A Section 106 Agreement has been entered into by the vendors which requires the developer to pay: • 85,000 Affordable Housing Contribution • £5,000 Highways Contribution Offers over £1 million plus VAT are invited. For more information, contact Ann Taylor at FHP on 07557 972008 or email: ann@fhpliving.co.uk

First family move into Ashby’s Hastings Park The first family to move into Barratt Homes’ new development in Ashby-de-la-Zouch is now enjoying life as part of a close-knit community. Paul and Emma Murray (pictured right) moved into their three-bedroom semi-detached home at Hastings Park, on Pentland Road in Ashbyde-la-Zouch, so their daughter Bridget could attend the area’s great schools and be within walking distance of friends. “Ashby’s a nice little town, with so much for us to do and see as a family,” explained Paul who is a manager in the construction industry, “It’s a really close-knit community which means everything we need is within walking distance, so we won’t be using the car as much.” “The house itself is really well-designed, and the layout is perfect for us”, added Emma. “It’s a three-bedroom home spread across three storeys which means that Bridget can have an entire floor to herself, something I’m sure she’ll appreciate when she’s a little older.” Both Paul’s and Emma’s parents bought new homes with Barratt and, following their recommendation, the Murray’s decided to do the same. The couple also took advantage of the homebuilder’s Part Exchange scheme. With Part Exchange, Barratt could be your buyer, offering fair market value for your old home, based on the average of two independent valuations. There are no estate agency fees to pay and no chance of a chain falling through. Plus, the expert team of Barratt Sales Advisers are there to help you every step of the way, from your very first enquiry to long after you move in.

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Terex Construction Appoints New Head of Operations at Coventry Facility As part of a sustained period of growth and investment, global construction solutions provider, Terex Construction, is pleased to announce the appointment of Carl Bowater as Head of Operations at its Coventry facility. Bowater will play a key part in further developing business growth in the UK, bringing more than 20 years’ experience from the automotive and aerospace industries. Bowater will focus specifically on the implementation of new processes to drive operational performance; continue to strengthen a culture of safety, quality and employee engagement, while overseeing day-to-day production at the company’s manufacturing facility in Coventry. Neal Nowick, General Manager of Terex Coventry, commented: “I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Carl Bowater as our new Head of Operations. Carl has dedicated the past two decades of his career to developing automotive organizations globally, so we’re confident that he will help to further build on our successes and respond to new opportunities in the marketplace. Speaking about his appointment, Bowater said: “As such a highly regarded construction equipment provider, Terex is going from strength to strength. The number of recent sales successes is testament to the commitment and progress of the company; further reflecting the team’s ability to deliver an excellent product for customers across the globe. “My vision for the business is to strengthen the culture of safety, quality and engagement, in order to see Terex further reinforcing its commitment to improvement, progression and customer satisfaction.” This bloke said to me, ‘Can I come into your house and talk to you about your carpets?’ I thought, that’s all I need, a Jehoovers Witness. I went to a four-star hotel last week. All the rooms were full of petrol.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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A plane crashed into our neighbour’s house. He’d left the landing light on.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

Roof tiles with the appearance of slate The Limes, in Sapcote, is the first Linden Homes development to be supplied by Russell Roof Tiles as part of a new partnership, and will see the housebuilder continue to grow its regional property portfolio. Russell Roof Tiles has supplied roofing solutions for 128 units currently being built in Leicestershire by Linden Homes. Russell Roof Tiles delivered the contract to supply roofing materials on all of the two, three and four-bedroom homes which feature a large mix of thin leading edge tiles as well as a Russell Roof Tiles dry fix system. Thin Leading Edge tiles give a roof the appearance of slate. This groundbreaking range of large format roof tiles began with the Galloway which now sets the standard across the industry for large format tiles. Russell Roof Tiles Galloway featured on many of the two, three and four bedroom homes. Galloway was used to combine the traditional appearance of slates with the security, economy and sustainable credentials of an interlocking concrete tile. The project is installed by roofing contractor Firth Roofing.

Building land in Clipston for sale FHP Property Consultants are offering for sale 5-10 acres of residential building land at Kings Acre, Cavendish Way, Clipstone, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG21 9EH. The site is situated adjacent to the Taylor Wimpey development which is currently underway. Outline Planning Consent exists for residential development on the site, and the Section 106 Agreement has already been satisfied for the site. As part of the Planning Permission, a small neighbourhood parade of shops is to be developed. The infrastructure has already been built, so subject to dealing with reserved matters, a developer could start construction relatively quickly. Offers over £400,000 per acre net are invited. For more information, contact David Hargreaves at FHP on 07876 396 003 or email: davidh@fhp.co.uk

Apartments at Nottingham One selling at rate of three per week

APARTMENTS in Nottingham’s newest and most sought after residential development are selling at a rate of three a week. The state-of-the-art, stylish apartments at Nottingham One in Canal Street are finished to the highest standard, featuring under floor heating, high specification kitchens, luxury bathrooms and floor to ceiling glass windows which enhance the stunning views over the city. Attached to the main building at Nottingham One is ‘The Tower’, which boasts 38 apartments, ranging from studio ‘crash pads’ to one and two bedroom apartments. Since October 2013, FHP Living – the estate agents for the development – have agreed the sale on over 80 of the apartments, with 18 of those being sold in The Tower in the last six weeks. With just five apartments remaining in the main building and 20 apartments in The Tower buyers are recommended to book a viewing before they miss out. Property consultant at FHP Living Oliver Marshall said: “We are thrilled with the speed at which the apartments are being snapped up and not at all surprised by the widespread interest. We are currently selling up to three apartments a week. “The apartments really are unique and offer the best views in the city from a residential development, particularly from The Tower. “We are nearly at the half way point with the sales and I don’t think it will be long before we have sold all the apartments.” Nottingham One is within five minutes’ walk of the new transport interchange and forthcoming three tram routes so the apartments are ideal for those who work just outside the city centre – for example at Queen’s Medical Centre or the University of Nottingham. Most apartments at Nottingham One have either terraces, balconies or Juliette balconies which offer incredible views of the city.

New way of getting public feedback on planning A new, improved way of gathering public views about key planning issues is being introduced by Harborough District Council. The Council is launching a new online consultation system which will help keep the public informed about the preparation of the new Local Plan for Harborough and related documents and encourage them to make their views heard. It will be easier to use, faster, and will allow people to see other

comments which have been made. It will be used for the first time this month – from 19 September 2014 – to seek public opinion on the updated Statement of Community Involvement (SCI). The SCI sets out how the district council will involve local communities in the preparation of the new Harborough District Local Plan and other strategic planning documents. This includes deciding how many and what types of houses will be needed in the future, where they should be built, what

types of new jobs are needed and where new community facilities are needed. It also sets out standards for how the Council will involve local residents in making decisions on planning applications for all kinds of development. Training is being offered to parish councils to help introduce them to the new way of consulting. Cllr Phil King, Harborough District Council’s portfolio holder for planning said: “Commenting online has a number of advantages – it is the fastest and most accurate

method and it will help us to manage representations quickly and efficiently. It will allow respondents to draft and review their comments before submitting and residents will be able to view the comments of others.” People will need to register online before submitting comments via the new system. More information will be made available about this, and the SCI consultation, on the council website www.harborough.gov.uk/ consultation

A moose is an animal that has a head and antlers at one end and a living room wall at the other.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

News from Nottingham

£10 Million gateway development consent is granted – an estimated 200 jobs to be created

Blueprint Interiors appoints new senior project manager

ONE of the most important gateway retail schemes in Nottingham for many years was given the green light by planners in August. A planning application has been granted for the £10 million landmark retail scheme known as Eastpoint in Daleside Road on the outskirts of Sneinton. It will breathe new life into the area and create up to 200 jobs. The scheme by Cedar House Investments, one of the region’s leading developers, will transform the fiveacre site – formerly the Sunlight Laundry. The site has attracted an Aldi, which will be the anchor retailer, taking up a 16,500 sq ft unit. There will be a further 30,000 sq ft of retail space and 5,330 sq ft of ancillary use and restaurants. Peter Gadsby, chairman of Cedar House Investments, said: “We are delighted that this development has been approved. The site, which has been dormant for some years, will further facilitate investment in Waterside. “We know that our retail development, which is anchored by an Aldi food store, is much needed for the people of Sneinton. “The scheme will breathe new life into an area of the city which is in need of investment. Cedar House has the ability to fund this development through its own resources and is delighted to be driving forward regeneration in the city. The development is going to be delivered in one phase, much of it on a speculative basis and we are confident that we will attract high quality occupiers. “The scheme will help form a gateway to the Waterside development area, and along with Blueprint’s £26 million housing scheme located opposite will create a new city community.” Joint agents JLL & FHP are marketing the remainder of the retail units and are already responding to strong interest, he added.

Residential development site with full planning for 11 apartments: £90k

Site for 5 houses in Borrowash

FHP Property Consultants are seeking offers in the region of £90,000 plus VAT for a residential development site at 259 Stoneyford Road, Stanton Hill, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 3GJ.

BB&J are asking £700,000 for a 0.91 acre site with Outline Planning Consent for 5 executive style detached family homes.

The site previously included a dwelling house but this has been demolished and the land is vacant and clear awaiting development. Full planning has been granted (Ashfield District Council ref: V/2007/1001 and V/2011/0052) for a two-storey building comprising 11 apartments with the benefit of car parking. Offers in the region of £90,000 plus VAT are invited. For more information, contact Ann Taylor at FHP on 07557 972008 or email: ann@fhpliving.co.uk

The site - adjacent to 6 Central Avenue, Borrowash, Derby DE72 3JZ - has been formed from former garden land previously associated with No.6 Central Avenue. The proposed scheme is for one detached bungalow and 4 detached houses and the planning permission reference is ERE/0214/0040). For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Chris Wright at BB&J on 01332 292825 or email: c.wright@bbandj.co.uk

Blueprint Interiors in Diseworth has appointed senior project manager, Simon Perris, to its growing team. Simon, who is from Nottingham but now lives in Willington, Derbyshire, has more than 26 years’ experience in the interiors and refurbishment side of construction. A qualified quantity surveyor as well as a highly experienced project manager, he has worked on projects which have included offices, schools, hospitals and supermarkets across the UK. Simon, who is now 44, gained an ONC and HNC in Building while with Derbyshire construction group Bowmer and Kirkland, before taking a degree, part-time, in quantity surveying at Nottingham Trent University. In his new role with Blueprint he heads up the contracts side of the commercial interiors business, overseeing everything from the pre-contract and initial client negotiation stage through site surveys and health and safety assessments to project completion. Simon – who most recently worked for a joinery and shop fitting business, and also owned his own fit-out and refurbishment company for several years – is pleased to have joined an expanding commercial interiors company. He said: “My previous experience in the schools sector is particularly useful. Among the projects I’m currently working on is refurbishment of the library and theatre at Ashby School as well as office refurbishment projects in Burton and Derby.” Married with a 22 year old son and a baby daughter, Simon enjoys the great outdoors when time allows.

My girlfriend claimed she was as bright as the brightest star in the night sky. I said ‘Are you Sirius?’

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2014 • Tel: 01530 244069

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