March 2016 leicestershire builder online by Michael Wilkinson

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

Leicestershire’s top property projects compete for Project of the Year

RICS Awards 2016, East Midlands shortlist released THE SHORTLIST for the 2016 RICS Awards 2016, East Midlands has now been released. Forty three of the East Midlands most innovative projects will now go head to head for the prestigious Project of the Year prize. The awards which are known as the property Oscars highlight the great talent involved for shaping the East Midland’s built environment. This year sees projects from across the region including Northampton, Nottingham, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Derby. There are eight categories to enter; Community Benefit, Regeneration, Design through Innovation, Building Conservation, Residential, Commercial property, Tourism & Leisure and Infrastructure. Loughborough College, Block S Turn to page 6 ...>

Development opportunity for 10 units in Enderby

FOTHERGILL WYATT Estate Agents are offering for sale a residential development opportunity located in the heart of Enderby. The property - Imperial Buildings, King Street, Enderby, Leicestershire LE19 4NT - is part of the former Victorian Enderby Boot & Shoe Factory, and occupies a site of approximately 0.15 acres. Detailed planning permission (ref: 15/1032/FUL) has been granted by Blaby District Council for conversion of the former factory building fronting King Street to 4 picturesque townhouses, and a new block of 6 apartments accessed via George Street, all with allocated private parking. Further information, including plans, are available upon request. The Guide Price is £450,000 and VAT will not be charged. For more details, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Peter Wyatt at Fothergill Wyatt on 0116 270 5900 or email: peter@fothergillwyatt.com

Recycling Site Changes Oak Court

The Crescent

ON PAGE 46, there is a handy cut-out-and-keep advert showing revisions to opening times and charges at Leicestershire’s recycling sites. Keep it in your van!

ADVERT & ARTICLE DEADLINE IS 15TH OF EACH MONTH - MAGAZINE OUT ON 1ST OF EACH MONTH

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

20 YEAR UN

IT SE WARR AL ANTY

My dog acts like her entire family was murdered by a vacuum cleaner.

My wife can speak 60 words a minute. With gusts up to 90.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

New apprenticeship pay Site for 9 dwellings in Croft legislation set to impact the construction sector • • •

One in four construction firms unaware of new national living wage legislation 30% of construction firms less likely to employ an apprentice aged 25 and over Full survey and report findings available at http://www. hudsoncontract.co.uk/resource-centre/new-apprenticeshippay-legislation/

ALMOST half (46%) of firms in the construction industry are set to feel the financial impact of new pay legislation affecting apprentices aged 25 years and over. The survey* was conducted by the UK’s leading construction payroll provider Hudson Contract, which polled companies on the new legislation which will see the wages of apprentices aged over 25 increase from £6.70 to the national living wage of £7.20 in April 2016. The research discovered that 24 percent of firms in the construction sector don’t know about the impending legislation change, whilst 30 percent of those surveyed will worryingly be less likely to employ an apprentice who is aged 25+ due to the financial pressure brought on by the wage rise. This is despite 24 percent of construction employers stating that they see apprentices aged 25+ as being more experienced, whilst a quarter consider them to be more reliable than younger apprentices. When it comes to the age debate, 81 percent of firms said that they employ apprentices under the age of 25, with 47 percent claiming their apprentice stays with the business for up to three years after completing their apprenticeship. This compared to 34 percent who stay with the company for up to five years and 14 percent who last up to 10 years – proving that apprentices are still seen as a long-term investment and vital to bolstering a talented workforce. Ian Anfield, managing director of Hudson Contract, commented: “With the construction industry one of the biggest apprenticeship employers, we wanted to gauge the opinions of our building clients across the UK who will ultimately be impacted by the new legislation. “Despite the findings indicating that nearly half of firms will be hit financially by the legislation and around a third may potentially be deterred from employing an apprentice aged 25 and over, it was reassuring that 42 percent of firms will employ an apprentice based on ability, rather than age.” Businesses looking to see the full results of the survey can view them at http://www.hudsoncontract.co.uk/resource-centre/new-apprenticeship-paylegislation/

MATHER JAMIE are offering for sale by Private Treaty a 0.95 acre residential development site with Outline Planning Consent for the construction of up to 9 dwellings. The site – at Broughton Road, Croft, Leicestershire LE9 3EB - is located on the southern edge of the village with access directly onto Broughton Road. The site benefits from Outline Planning Consent granted by Blaby District Council for the erection of up to 9 residential dwellings (Ref: 15/1279/OUT, dated 15th January 2016). The mix will be determined at detailed design stage, but the illustrative layout proposes a mix of detached and semidetached 3 and 4 bed houses. A copy of the decision notice is available as part of the technical information. A Unilateral Undertaking (UU) has been completed (dated 8th January 2016) which obligates the developer to make a contribution towards Public Open Space and Recreational facilities in accordance with the Blaby Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (Feb 2010) as well as monitoring costs. The UU does not require any of the dwellings built on site to be allocated as Affordable Housing. A website dedicated to the sale of this land can be found by visiting: www. matherjamie.co.uk/croft For more information, contact Gary Kirk at Mather Jamie on 01509 233433 or email: gary.kirk@matherjamie.co.uk

Cash boost for Bottesford thanks to Barratt Homes A LEICESTERSHIRE village is set to benefit from nearly half a million pounds of funding for local services thanks to leading developer Barratt Homes. The funding, which totals over £462,000* will be used to support new and existing residents of Bottesford, a charming village on the border of Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, and comes as part of the planning agreement for the homebuilder’s latest development, The Wickets. Barratt Homes will be building 56 new homes at the development, the first of which are available to buy now. “Community investment is one of the most important parts of any new housing scheme,” said John Dillon, Managing Director at Barratt Homes North Midlands. “As The Wickets continues to progress, we’ll be contributing a great deal to the local community in Bottesford, not only through the high quality homes we will be building, but also through the jobs we will be creating and financial contributions to ensure the area is well supported. “As a homebuilder we pride ourselves on being able to support the communities in and around our developments, and we hope these contributions will have a positive impact on the lives of local people.” Specific areas of funding include: • A Police contribution of £33,936 • An integrated transport contribution of £56,000 • £162,610 towards primary education^ • £167,142 towards secondary education

• A £6216 bus stop contribution • £662 towards a bus pass for each new home, totalling £37,072 Located on the southern outskirts of the thriving village of Bottesford and surrounded by open fields, yet not too far away from the cities of Nottingham and Leicester, The Wickets offers the best of both worlds. ^Subject to verification from the council *All figures are correct at time of print but may vary dependent on indexation target figures as the development nears completion.

He got me some fancy, romantic wine for Valentine’s Day. It’s the good stuff, with real French words printed on the box.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Leicestershire’s top property projects Continued from page 1 Leicestershire will hope to continue their award winning streak from last year with a total of 12 entries. Following on from the success of Leicester King Richard III Visitor Centre last year Leicester Cathedral’s Richard III Project ‘With Dignity and Honour’ enters the awards with the final resting place of the late King himself. The hotly contended category this year will be Commercial where five out of the six shortlisted come from Leicestershire. The Crescent at Hinckley takes on Optimus Point (who also enter the Infrastructure category), Friars Mill, Leicester Food Park and Marquis Place. Leicestershire this year showcases projects for our future generations and the wider community. Attenborough Arts Centre, part of the university sets to be part of the wider community and engage with disabled people with art activities. Soft Touch Arts, the charity which looks to use arts, music and media to engage with disadvantaged young people joins Attenborough Arts Centre as well as the refurbishment of East West Community Centre in Community Benefit category. Other projects include the refurbishment of Block S, Loughborough College as part of a wider project sees the opening of Block S as a state of the art learning environment; the transformation of TK Court from office buildings to student accommodation and Oak Court, the latest residential accommodation that meet the principles of Lifetime Homes. Chair of the RICS Awards 2016, East Midlands judging panel, Will Evans of Enterprise Inns, said: “This year we have had an impressive amount of entries which really showcase the growing built environment across the region. It is with great pleasure that we are able to judge this year’s entries which deliver a real diverse picture of the East Midlands growth.” The category winners will then go forth for the acclaimed Project of the Year title, awarded to the scheme that demonstrates outstanding best practice and an exemplary commitment to adding value to its local area. Last year saw Leicester King Richard III Visitor Centre win the esteemed title. The 2016 RICS Awards 2016, East Midlands which will be held on Thursday 21 April at Kelham Hall in Newark, will be hosted by the popular face of ITV Weather, Emma Jesson. Tickets for the ceremony and black tie dinner can be booked online at www.rics.org/awards or you can contact Abbi Quinn directly on aquinn@rics.org.

The shortlist: Building Conservation: • Chatsworth Stickyard Outdoor Education Centre, Derbyshire • Derby Full Street, Derbyshire • Epperstone Manor, Nottinghamshire • Crowland Abbey, Lincolnshire • Revitalising the Stableyard, Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire • Friars Mill, Leicestershire • Lincoln UTC, Lincolnshire Commercial • The Crescent, Hinckley, Leicestershire • Derby Full Street, Derbyshire • Optimus Point, Leicestershire • Friars Mill, Leicestershire • Leicester Food Park,

Leicestershire • Marquis Place, Leicestershire Community Benefit • Sixth Form Centre with Classrooms for Rushcliffe Academy Trust, Nottinghamshire • Flower Pod, Nottinghamshire • Jerry Green Dog Rehoming Centre, Nottinghamshire • Soft Touch Arts, Leicestershire • St Johns the Baptist, Spalding, Re-ordering, Lincolnshire • Attenborough Arts Centre, Leicestershire • East West Community Centre, Leicestershire • Field of Dreams, Nottinghamshire

Design through Innovation • Leicester Cathedral’s Richard III Project ‘With Dignity and Honour’. Leicestershire • Lincoln UTC, Lincolnshire • Louth Community Fire Station, Lincolnshire • Skegness Beacon Primary Academy School, Lincolnshire • Derby Arena, Derbyshire • Loughborough College, Loughborough • University of Derby Sports Centre, Derbyshire Infrastructure • Louth Community Fire Station, Lincolnshire • Skegness Beacon Primary Academy School, Lincolnshire • National Training Academy for Rail, Northampton • Optimus Point, Leicestershire • Northampton Castle Train Station, Northampton • Nottingham Express Transit (NET) Phase Two, Nottingham • A43 Corby Link Road, Northamptonshire Regeneration • Heart of the Campus NTU, Nottinghamshire • The Crescent, Hinckley, Leicestershire • Derby Full Street, Derbyshire • South Meadows Regeneration, Nottinghamshire • Shot Tower, Derbyshire • Derby Innovation Hub, Derbyshire • Gateway, Lincolnshire • Refurbishment of Block S, Loughborough College, Loughborough Residential • Oakwood, Nottinghamshire • Christonian Court, Nottinghamshire • TK Court, Leicestershire • Green Street Phase II, Nottinghamshire • Epperstone Manor, Nottinghamshire • Rethinking Housing Delivery, Bassetlaw District Council, A1 Housing & Woodhead Living, Nottinghamshire • Oak Court, Leicestershire • Gateway, Lincolnshire Tourism & Leisure • The Crescent, Hinckley, Leicestershire • Leicester Cathedral’s Richard III Project ‘With Dignity and Honour’. Leicestershire • Attenborough Arts Centre, Leicestershire • University of Derby Sports Centre, Derbyshire • Field of Dreams, Nottinghamshire • Derby Arena, Derbyshire

I save all my yawns in church until everyone is singing so it looks like I’m doing my part.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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If I say, “Don’t worry, I’m on it,” there’s a 98% chance I’m referring to my couch.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

LOCAL COMPANY TAKES ON BIG SIX

FLOGAS BRITAIN LAUNCHES MAINS GAS FOR BUSINESSES LEICESTER BASED company, Flogas Britain, is set to go up against the big six energy providers with the announcement it is now providing mains gas for local businesses. Based in Syston, Flogas is one of the UK’s leading LPG, LNG and renewable energy providers, traditionally serving customers that are located off the mains gas network. However, this move into mains gas, which puts them in direct competition with the big six, means Flogas can now provide natural gas to businesses that are on the grid. As a result, Leicestershire companies now have the option of buying their gas from a local business, with the added benefit of specially discounted rates for local companies. Supplying local businesses of any size, Flogas Mains Gas offers a very simple proposition; highly competitive fixed pricing, simple easy to understand contracts and fantastic customer service. In addition, all customers get assigned a dedicated account manager and direct phone number, which means no waiting in long call queues, and a personalised service at all times. In short, Flogas offers simply better mains gas. Having built a reputation for providing tailored solutions to businesses across all sectors, Flogas understands, businesses’ energy needs, and most importantly how to provide a reliable uninterrupted supply. It prides itself on being easy to do business with, so local firms switching to Flogas will experience a fully managed, seamless process that causes no business disruption. Customers with an annual spend of less than £7,500 will be able to switch online, while customers with a higher spend will be switched quickly and easily through a dedicated member of the Flogas team. As a customer, businesses will benefit from a suite of monitoring and reporting tools that allow simple and easy energy management. Commenting on the announcement, Flogas Britain CEO, Lee Gannon said: “We’re proud to be based in Leicester and welcome the opportunity to work closely with other local businesses. “Flogas has a reputation for providing outstanding and innovative solutions to off-grid businesses across the UK, so we’re thrilled to be able to bring our expertise to local businesses and give them an alternative option for their gas supply. “If businesses haven’t switched gas suppliers in a couple of years or more, it’s highly likely they’re paying more than they should. A three-minute call to us could save them thousands of pounds.” Businesses interested in finding out more can visit: www.flogas.co.uk/ mains-gas or call 0800 022 3232 to speak with our friendly advisors. Quote ‘Leicester Business’ for the exclusively discounted local rates.

To Advertise In Leicestershire Builder, call Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069.

NHBC reports continued housebuilding growth in 2015 • • •

7% year-on-year increase in NHBC new home registrations 156,140 new homes registered - representing 8 year high 75% more new homes registered in 2015 than in 2009

THE NUMBER of new homes registered to be built in the UK has topped 156,000 in 2015 – a continued increase of 7% on the previous year, new NHBC figures have revealed. In total, 156,140 new homes were registered by NHBC in 2015 - compared to 146,359 in 2014. The figures show NHBC registered 75% more new homes in 2015 than it did at the time of the housing crash in 2009. Private sector registrations increased by 7% (118,611 in 2015; 110,674 in 2014), with the public sector increasing by 5% (37,529 in 2015; 35,685 in 2014). The figures also showed that NHBC registered 75% more new homes in 2015 than it did at the time of the housing crash in 2009. Continuing the trend from 2014, the number of detached homes registered over the last 12 months (42,173) is the highest for over a decade. Additionally, the number of semi-detached homes registered in 2015 (35,423) is the highest in more than 20 years (36,757 in 1994). NHBC’s latest data also revealed that the majority of UK regions experienced notable growth on 2014 levels, with the Eastern region (+23%), North West (+16%) and Scotland (+15%) leading the way. The East Midlands (+12%), South West (+9%) and West Midlands (+9%) also enjoyed a positive year, as did Northern Ireland (+30%) although this was from a relatively low base. London is still leading the way in the number of new home registrations. Although the 2015 figure of 25,994 registrations is down 9% on the record 2014 total of 28,518, 2015 saw the third highest number of registrations on record. Yorkshire & the Humber is down 13% on 2014 and Wales is down 2% on 2014. As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, NHBC’s registration statistics are the lead indicator of the health of the country’s new homes market. For over 80 years, NHBC has been committed to driving up quality and raising standards in house-building and enjoys an 80% plus market share in UK new home warranties. Commenting on the annual statistics, NHBC Chief Executive Mike Quinton, said: “We are pleased to report that 2015 was a year for continued housing growth in the UK. Both the public and private sectors have performed well and we have seen encouraging levels of house-building across most regions of the country. “The detached home continues its resurgence, with our figures showing that house builders are building the highest number of detached properties for over a decade, with semi-detached homes also at their highest level in more than 20 years. “There is still a way to go before we are building the levels of new homes that were seen before the economic downturn, but 2015 represents consolidation on the growth seen over the last three years. “As always, NHBC’s mission is to ensure construction quality of the very highest standard in new homes and this emphasis on quality remains unwavering – particularly during such periods of increased activity and production that we have seen over recent years.”

Wymondham plot MURRAY Estate Agents are offering for sale a building plot with full planning permission (ref: 13/00536/FUL) for a three-bed detached house on a quiet back lane in the sought-after village of Wymondham. The plot – at Wrights Lane, Wymondham, Near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire – is available at a guide price of £200,000. For more information, contact Murrays on 01572 755 5555.

If it’s “easier said than done” then I’d rather we just keep talking about it.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Auction Diary 2016 Send details of your local auctions and we’ll include them in our auction diary free - Tremendous!

March 2016

Wednesday 23rd March 2016 LOVEITTS - at Village Urban Resort, Dolomite Avenue, Canley, Coventry CV4 9GZ - 6.30pm start - tel: 024 7652 7789 - email: auctions@loveitts. co.uk

Wednesday 9th March 2016 SHOULER & SON - tel: 01664 410166 - www.shoulers.co.uk SEE PAGE 17 Thursday 10th March 2016 SHOULER & SON - at Melton Mowbray Cattle Market - tel: 01664 410166 - www.shoulers.co.uk SEE BELOW & PAGE 32 Tuesday 15th March 2016 HOWKINS & HARRISON - at the Appleby Inn Hotel, Atherstone Road, Appleby Magna DE12 7AP - 6.30pm start - tel: 01530 877977 Tuesday 22 March 2016 - GRAHAM PENNY - Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 11.30am start www.grahampennyauctions.com

April 2016 Tuesday 5 April 2016 - SAVILLS - at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8080 - www.savills. co.uk/auctions Tuesday 12 April 2016 - GRAHAM PENNY - Leicester City Football Club, King Power Stadium, Leicester LE2 7FL - 11.30am start www.grahampennyauctions.com Thursday 14 April 2016 - GRAHAM PENNY - iPro Stadium, Derby, DE24 8XL - 11.30am start www.grahampennyauctions.com

Brooksby Grange Barn for sale by auction

SHOULERS Estate Agents are offering for sale BY AUCTION a superb complex of barns and stables for conversion, on a site of up to 6 acres. The property - Brooksby Grange Barn, Melton Road, Brooksby, Leicestershire LE7 4YT – is located in a secluded, tranquil setting between Rearsby and Brooksby, overlooking open countryside for many miles. Full Planning Permission (ref:14/00731/FUL) has been granted to convert into a spacious 4 bedroom dwelling with split level living accommodation. The site is situated at the end of a long private driveway and is bordered by Rearsby Brook to the East. The property will have very good access to Melton Mowbray, Leicester and Loughborough and the motorway network can be easily accessed via the A46 Western Bypass to Junction 21A M1. The barn sits on a site of approximately 1.4 acres including the driveway which also serves Brooksby Grange Farmhouse. There is a further 4.6 acres of paddock (edged green on the plan) which will be available ONLY to the purchaser for a further £75,000 as an option at the fall of the hammer. Please note any alterations/amendments to the plans will need to be agreed with the sellers, Brooksby Melton College, as well as the Borough Council. FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION THURSDAY 10TH MARCH 2016 AT 6.30 p.m. AT THE MARKET TAVERN, MELTON MOWBRAY CATTLE MARKET. The Guide Price is £250,000-£300,000, and there is no chain. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or email: housesales@shoulers.co.uk

New build homes to have SUPERFAST broadband connectivity THE GOVERNMENT has worked with Openreach – BT’s local access network business – and the Home Builders Federation (HBF) on an agreement which aims to deliver superfast broadband connectivity to new build properties in the UK. The new deal will see fibre based broadband offered to all new developments either for free or as part of a co-funded initiative. It is estimated that more than half of all new build properties can be connected to fibre broadband free of charge to developers. As part of the agreement, Openreach is introducing an online planning tool for homebuilders. This will tell them whether properties in a given development can be connected to fibre for free, or if a contribution is needed from the developer to jointly fund the deployment of the local fibre network. From today, the housing industry will have access to a ‘rate card’ from Openreach which details the fixed cost contributions required by homebuilders in those cases where joint funding is required. Openreach will make a significant contribution itself before seeking any funds from developers. HBF will promote and support uptake of the co-funding offer amongst their members, and emphasise the need to plan for connectivity early in the development. This new offer sets a high bar for all suppliers and developers in the market, and Government will be working with industry closely to monitor success over the next year. Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey said: “The Government’s ambition to build 1 million new homes over the course of this Parliament will house families and future generations to come. Broadband connectivity is just one thing that home buyers now expect when buying a new build, so this industry-led push to make superfast, or indeed ultrafast, broadband speeds available by default in new homes represents a very important step in meeting the UK’s digital needs.” Clive Selley, CEO Openreach, said: “This is an important step towards bringing fibre broadband to as many new build properties as possible. “We recognise that high speed broadband connectivity is a major factor for homeowners when deciding to buy a house. That’s why we’re offering to deliver fibre to all new build developments either for free or as a cofunded model. “With the support of the HBF we’ve delivered a series of measures to give developers greater clarity, choice and more funding. Today’s announcement underlines Openreach’s commitment to further extend its fibre network – which reaches more than 24m premises – to benefit even more communities across the country. Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the HBF said: “Housebuilders are constantly striving to deliver on and surpass the expectations of customers as we continue to see housing supply grow. Broadband speeds are an increasingly important factor in the home buying process and this offer to developers will see more new build purchasers benefit from the very best connectivity to go alongside the many other advantages of purchasing a brand new home.”

Long Lawford plot EDWARD KNIGHT Estate Agents are inviting offers over £100,000 for a building plot in Long Lawford, near Rugby. The plot – at 94 Main Street, Long Lawford, Rugby – has Outline Planning Permission for the erection of a detached dormer bungalow. For more information, contact Edward Knight on 01788 543222 or email: sales@edwardknight.co.uk

You mean these doors open automatically for everyone, not just me?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

My Retirement Plan hinges on having at least one successful kid.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

If my kids knew there was a light in the oven, they’d leave that one on too.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Markit/CIPS UK Construction PMI®

Weakest expansion of UK construction output for nine months in January • • •

UK construction sector experiences growth slowdown at the start of 2016 Job creation eases to its slowest for almost two-and-a-half years Construction firms report lowest business confidence since December 2014

JANUARY data pointed to a renewed slowdown in output growth across the UK construction sector. At 55.0, down from 57.8 in December, the headline seasonally adjusted Markit/CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index® (PMI®) remained well above the 50.0 no-change value, but signalled the slowest rate of expansion since April 2015. Moreover, aside from the pre-election slowdown recorded last year, the latest reading was the lowest since June 2013. A number of survey respondents noted that softer new business growth had acted as a brake on output growth and staff hiring at the start of 2016. Higher levels of output were recorded across all three broad areas of construction activity monitored by the survey. Commercial work remained the best performing category in January, but the latest upturn was still the slowest since June 2015. At the same time, house building activity expanded at the second weakest pace for just over two-and-a-half years. Civil engineering was again the weakest performing area of activity overall, despite rebounding slightly from December’s eight-month low. Mirroring the trend for business activity, latest data signalled a slowdown in new order growth at the start of 2016. The latest increase in incoming new work was the slowest for four months. Survey respondents cited greater caution among clients and less favourable underlying demand conditions. That said, a number of construction companies also noted a sustained upturn in infrastructure-related contracts and new residential building work in January. Looking ahead, survey respondents remained highly upbeat overall about their prospects for growth over the next 12 months, with around 46% expecting a rise in business activity and only 6% anticipating a reduction. However, the degree of positive sentiment eased for the third month running and was the lowest since December 2014. While there were widespread reports of strong order books and planned company expansions in 2016, some firms highlighted concerns that underlying demand conditions had started to soften. Reduced optimism about the business outlook contributed to a moderation in job creation across the construction sector in January. The latest rise in employment numbers was the weakest since September 2013. Construction companies also signalled the slowest upturn in sub-contractor usage for six months. Input buying meanwhile expanded at a weaker rate in January, with the latest rise the least marked since April 2015. Supply chain pressure persisted in January, as highlighted by a further lengthening of delivery times from vendors. However, lower fuel and energy costs helped to partially offset rising prices for construction materials. Reflecting this, latest data indicated that overall input cost inflation was only slightly stronger than December’s eight-month low.

Development opportunity in Hallaton JAMES SELLICKS Estate Agents are offering for sale a development plot located in Eastgate, adjacent to the newly renovated Bewicke Arms, in the soughtafter village of Hallaton. Planning permission (ref: 15/01380/FUL) has been granted for a substantial detached dwelling designed by Langton Homes, winner of the ‘Small Residential Scheme of the Year 2015’ prize at the 2015 ProCon Awards. The proposed house offers open plan living, utility, games room/office, five double bedrooms, four bathrooms, an additional room in the roof space and a double garage. The total area for the accommodation, excluding the garages, totals 3,650 sq.feet. The Guide Price is £335,000. For more information, contact James Sellicks on 01858 410008 or email: mh@jamessellicks.com

Construction work begins on new homes at Bramcote Work to build 28 new homes on the site of the former Bramcote Hospital in Nuneaton has got underway. Bloor Homes has begun laying the foundations on the first plots at its luxury Bramcote Manor development following the construction of the new access road into the Lutterworth Road site. Demolition work on the derelict hospital buildings began last autumn and is now nearing completion. Bloor was granted planning permission to develop the 1.4 hectare site last September, which had been derelict since the closure of the hospital in 2011. One of the hospital buildings, Ashby House, which is located to the south west of the site, is being retained by the NHS. The first homes are due to be completed by the summer.

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

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I was shopping online and saw a horse that I rather liked. So I clicked ‘add to cart’.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

Parking Charge PROBLEM: Although I am an Architect, my actual problem is not directly to do with building, but I have no doubt that everyone working in our industry would have been, or will be affected by this. My office is based just outside the centre of Leicester City, and for the past 8 months I have been travelling by car to a project I am involved with in Birmingham. The site is severely restricted, being surrounded by a mixture of office and residential properties. As you can therefore imagine, parking is very difficult, whilst the closest public car park is a good 10 minutes’ walk away. I was informed by the site manager that just up the road was an apartment block, and that a few of the professional visitors to the site was using the residents parking bays to park for a few hours during the day. He did mention that to park there you had to have a residents permit, although the worst case was a parking ticket would be issued by a private firm, but it could not clamp your car nor pursue the parking ticket unless it knew who the driver was – which I knew already. I therefore decided to use this car park, and although I did get quite a few tickets, I was never clamped nor did I hear anything from the parking firm immediately after the ticket was issued. However, just before Christmas, I received a demand for £840.00. This was for 7 parking tickets at £120.00 each. I ignored this, and then received a ‘Letter Before Action’. I ignored this as well. I have now received a further letter stating that the matter is now being actioned through the Small Claims Court. Should I be concerned? I received a parking ticket about 5 years ago when I overstayed at a motorway services, and I ignored this because I was under the impression that only the driver could be pursued and if the driver was unknown, then the fine was unenforceable.

Name and address supplied

RESPONSE: This issue will be highly relevant for many readers; hence I am only too willing to address this. Parking ‘tickets’ or ‘fines’ from private companies are in fact invoices. When someone drives into a privately owned car park, they do so, on licence, and enter into a civil contract. There will usually be visible signs on display which are the terms and conditions of the contract, and if you breach any of the T&C’s, then there is usually a pre-determined liquidated sum specified as the damage that the keeper of the vehicle is liable for. Before 2012, a private landowner could immobilise a vehicle that was on its land. However, where only a parking ‘ticket’ was issued, providing the keeper of the vehicle did not inform the land owner or its agent who the driver was, the ‘fine’ was pretty much toothless, as the landowner / agent, if it wanted to recover the ‘fine’ through the courts (which is the only means of recovery for non-payment), it had to prove who the driver was because the contract was between the landowner / agent and the driver. However, in 2012, Protection of Freedoms Act came into force. Although this Act outlawed private land owners from immobilising vehicles, paragraph 56 gave effect to Schedule 4 of the Act which provided for the recovery of unpaid parking charges: “The creditor has the right to recover any unpaid parking charges from the keeper of the vehicle.” Hence, it is now the keeper of the vehicle that is liable for the parking charges. Hopes were raised in mid-2015 when a disgruntled driver challenged his parking charge and the case went all the way to the Supreme Court. The driver was challenging the charge on the basis that it was a penalty and thus unenforceable. The driver was unsuccessful. The Court said although the penalty rule is engaged, the charge (which was £85.00) was not a penalty, and that the landowner and its agent “had a legitimate interest in charging overstaying motorists, which extended beyond the recovery of any loss.” The Court further stated that the interest of the landowners was the provision and efficient management of customer parking for the retail outlets whilst the interest of the agent was in income from the charge, which met the running costs of a legitimate scheme plus a Michael P. Gerard profit margin. The advice provided is The Court further said that the: “charge was neither intended to be of a general extravagant nor unconscionable [which are 2 essential tests guide only and should not to deem that a charge is in fact a penalty], having regard to be viewed as providing a practice around the United Kingdom, and taking into account definitive legal analysis. the use of this particular car park and the clear wording of the Author background notices.” Michael is a Solicitor, All that said, you still can bring forward defences such as the Chartered Builder, Registered charge is a penalty (this will depend on the level of the charge Construction Adjudicator & and the particular use of the car park), whether the signs were Accredited Expert in quantum clear and visible and whether the ground markings were clear. and planning matters. He is And of course, you can always make an offer to settle. Managing Director of Michael Gerard & Co., and a Partner © Michael P. Gerard with Cato Solicitors. March 2016

Eager buyers snap up homes on The Longshoot A FANTASTIC rate of sales at Heritage View, Davidsons Homes’ site on The Longshoot in Nuneaton, has meant that the site is now almost completely sold out. There’s been a real buzz about the development and now just six of the 50 three to fivebedroom high-specification homes are left at the stunning site where sales have been exceedingly brisk. Stephanie King, Sales Director for Davidsons Homes, said: “We’re over the moon with the response we’ve had from buyers to Heritage View on The Longshoot. It proves the strength of the housing market in Nuneaton at the moment. “On one weekend alone we saw unprecedented sales of six homes over two days, and demand has been high right from day one. PICTURED RIGHT: A street scene at Heritage View on The Longshoot in Nuneaton

My cat just swatted my dog in the face for yawning loudly and it was then I knew they were married.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I once watched a documentary on ferns because the remote was out of reach.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Power Tools “Most Stolen Item in 2015” – Builders bear the brunt of building site crime POWER TOOLS are the most stolen item from building sites and workers in the construction trade, with small traders suffering most from crime in the industry. A national security equipment installation and servicing company has found that smaller, easy-to-fence items are more likely to be stolen, but there are still significant numbers of thefts of large plant and machinery. The Yorkshire-based CCTV.co.uk company says that while site and contractor van security has improved greatly in recent years, the “inside job” is still one of the major risks to any building site. CCTV.co.uk surveyed 75 building firms, from large companies down to sole traders, and found that the ten most stolen items in 2015 were: • Power tools • Bags of cement • Ladders • Plant machinery • Wheelbarrows • Building materials and other supplies • Cable • Metals • Personal items - radios, phones, cash • Hand tools Jonathan Ratcliffe, of CCTV.co.uk notes that power tools are far and away the most vulnerable item because they have a high resale value, and they’re usually very portable. Such is the specialised nature of the stolen goods, they can only be resold to rogue traders looking to equip themselves cheaply and with little care to the crime victims in their own profession. “A determined gang of thieves can steal thousands of pounds worth of decent quality gear from a single trader and put him out of a job for months,” he says. “Even taking every precaution to safeguard your property, it only takes a minute with your guard down for your livelihood to be taken away. “Buying stolen professional tools on the quiet isn’t a victimless crime.” While targeted theft from contractors is a major problem, the biggest proportion of construction industry crime comes from theft of supplies, materials and plant from building sites. Unfortunately, no site manager can rule out the risk of the “inside job”, CCTV.co.uk says. “Only a proportion of this kind of activity is ‘dead of night’ thieving,” Ratcliffe says, “Instead building sites haemorrhage material through petty theft and stealing-to-order.” These stories from victims of construction industry crime speak volumes: • Barry, sole trader: “Like the sign on the van, I never keep tools in there overnight, and they’re always well secured at other times. Instead, someone broke into the van when I parked up at the supermarket on the way home. £3,000 lost in 20 minutes, we couldn’t have a holiday because I had to buy new gear.” • Terry, company manager: “We always have to budget in a little bit of theft of materials, because you can’t stop the odd opportunist thief. But one job was losing metals, cable and supplies hand-over-fist, almost like they had a shopping list. That probably means somewhere there’s a house built out of our profits.” • Pavel, bricklayer: “I hate it when the small stuff goes missing, like your radio or mobile phone. That means you are working with a thief, and I don’t like that. It happens too much.” Ratcliffe says that sometimes extreme measures have to be taken to protect property. One study in 2011 found that painting plant and equipment pink deters thieves, as it makes it harder to sell on. “Of course, if everybody painted their gear pink, we’d all be back to square one, which is why technology such as smart water is so effective,” he says. Scaffolding companies know this to be the case, with each local company using a different colour, meaning that stolen equipment is easily identified. “Construction sites can be chaotic places, which make them ideal for the criminal,” says Ratcliffe. “All it takes is equating crime just as high as safety, and we can save both personal livelihoods and company profits.”

Auction fever takes hold! LOVEITTS in Coventry held their first auction of 2016 on Thursday 4th February, with some great results. There were over 300 people in attendance, and of course there was a lot of discussions over the current housing market and how the new changes in Stamp Duty for landlords could possibly affect the bidding on the night and the future of the housing market after the changes are put in place on 1st April 2016. The views were quite mixed, with some purchasers expecting it to have a dramatic effect, and in a few cases some investors commenting on the fact that they would no longer be buying property after 1st April. However the overall strength of comments was a much more positive, on the basis that property has always considered to be a great place to invest money, whether it be as a buy to let, or a property to buy, do up and sell on. It was also very apparent that there was an increase of purchasers from outside of the Coventry and Warwickshire area. Investors taking the time to travel up to 150 miles to bid for properties. The auction started and finished very well with many of the properties selling for well over the Guide Price. One property which really stood out was one property that was taken as a late entry, just less than 2 weeks prior to the auction. The property on Moreland Road was visited by Loveitts on Friday 22nd January, and it was decided that there was plenty of time to arrange the contract pack and get some good marketing done. The marketing commenced the day after, and the contract pack was prepared immediately by Raj Mann at BHB Law. Viewings commenced on the Monday morning and there was a wave of interested parties all showing some great interest. The property was offered at auction just the next week, with a Guide Price of £60,000 - £80,000 and sold under the hammer at £106,500, far in excess of expectations. So from appraisal to exchange it took only 13 days!

Farm buildings, 3 plots and 2 paddocks for sale by auction

SHOULER & SON Estate Agents are offering for sale BY AUCTION Aa farmhouse, buildings and gardens with planning consent to convert into a larger single dwelling, 3 single building plots with consent for detached houses, plus 2 paddocks with independent access. The property - at Epperstone, Nottinghamshire - is being offered for sale in 6 lots BY AUCTION on Wednesday 9th March 2016. For further details, contact the selling agents, Shouler & Son on 01664 410166 or email: housesales@shoulers.co.uk

There’s no time capsule quite like the pocket of a coat that’s been in the closet for a year.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

DMU trio building careers together at David Wilson Homes

Local house builders can deliver quality and quantity, says FMB SMALL LOCAL house builders are best placed to ensure that increasing the quantity of homes does not reduce the quality of homes, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has stated, in light of a new House of Lords Committee report on the built environment.

A DE MONTFORT University (DMU) marketing student is following in the footsteps of two former students and alumni of the same course, working for leading developer David Wilson Homes. Oliva Duval (22) is currently spending her placement year with the marketing team of the company’s South Midlands division, where former DMU students Anthony Richardson (27) and Emma Gristwood (23) are now working as Marketing Manager and Marketing Executive respectively. Anthony began his career with the homebuilder on the company’s competitive graduate scheme Aspire, whilst Emma, like Olivia, spent her year-in-industry with the company, before later being offered a permanent position after impressing bosses. The trio were recently visited by DMU Senior Marketing Lecturer Julia Cook, who taught all three during their time at the university. She said: “David Wilson have offered De Montfort students some fantastic placement opportunities and it is great to see our students now securing graduate and senior management positions. “I feel immensely proud that the marketing department of David Wilson South Midlands is all from De Montfort University. All three of them were intelligent, hardworking, conscientious students and I know they will make a significant contribution to the company. I hope that we can continue to develop this mutually beneficial relationship.” Barratt Developments, parent company to David Wilson Homes, is well-known for its commitment to training talented young people through its highly-regarded

From left: Emma Gristwood, Anthony Richardson, Olivia Duval and Julia Cook undergraduate placement programme, graduate scheme and apprenticeships. Chris Hatfield, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes South Midlands, said: “As an employer we recognised the benefits of recruiting and developing young talent and we are absolutely committed to providing these kinds of industrial placements and graduate opportunities. “We strive to reward excellence and encourage progression which is why so many people that join as at this early stage choose to stay with us, as evidenced by Emma, Anthony and Olivia. “We’re also lucky to have a great university like De Montfort producing excellent graduates locally, giving us a pool of talent from which to choose.” Sally Bradbery, Future Talent Coordinator for Barratt Developments, said: “Our undergraduate programmes offer a realistic approach to working in one of the UK’s most competitive industries. The homes we build, we build to last and it’s the same with the skills that trainees gain during their time with us which allow them to develop long and successful careers. “We’re always on the lookout for fresh new talent and would encourage anyone interested to find out more about building their career with us.” Further information about careers with David Wilson Homes can be found at www.barrattcareers.co.uk For information of apprenticeships, undergraduate and graduate programs visit www. barrattfuturetalent.co.uk

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Committee is right to focus on the quality of housing – any dropping of standards in order to boost completions will serve to store up problems for the future. However, to suggest that achieving numbers might come at the cost of quality is creating a false dichotomy. In particular, the Committee has misunderstood the impetus behind calls for planning reform. Small house builders have been pressing for a speedier planning system, not because it will allow them to build to a lower spec, but because the current system is ill-suited for building high quality homes on the required scale to address the housing shortage. Local developers deliver houses that have a very high satisfaction rate among home owners. What builders need is a planning system that is far quicker and easier to navigate and is an enabler of housing delivery, not a drag on it.” Berry concluded: “Looking at some of the other recommendations, we’re pleased that the Lords Committee recognises the importance of SME house builders and we agree that the Government must reconsider its position on retrofitting our existing homes. In particular, we back their call for the introduction of a Chief Built Environment Advisor. “The role of Chief Construction Adviser existed until the end of last year but was scrapped by the Government as part of its efficiency savings. As construction, housing and infrastructure cut across so many different government departments, it’s useful to have a dynamic individual in place who can ensure there is greater co-ordination in Whitehall and who can act as a genuine champion for creating a quality built environment. The Government needs to work with the Lords and with industry to develop these recommendations in a way that allows us to tackle one of the greatest political challenges of our time.”

Land with planning consent in Stanton on the Wolds

OAK PROPERTY Consultants are offering for sale a 1.64 acre development site with planning consent for a 4-bedroom property, along with the retention of a garage block (1,750 sq.feet) and a summerhouse (400 sq.feet). The land – at 143 Browns Lane, Stanton on the Wolds, Nottinghamshire NG12 5BN – would suit an equestrian facility or alternatively a Grand Design project with significant landscaped gardens. Planning consent (ref: 14/00993/FUL) was granted in May 2014 for the construction of a 4-bedroom house. Plans are available from Rushcliffe Borough Council website. Offers in the region of £600,000 are invited for the freehold interest. For more information, contact Oak Property Consultants on 0115 896 5010 or email: mail@oakpropertyconsultants.co.uk

I should have told my wife I was referring to her memory before comparing her to an elephant.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Tel: 01530 244069

The worst thing about babies is how little they appreciate all the sleep they get.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

RESIDENTIALDEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITY

Land at Broughton Road, Croft, Leicestershire. LE9 3EB • Residential development site extending to 0.95 Acres (0.38HA) • Attractive village location with excellent connectivity to Leicester/M1 J21/Fosse Park/Grove Park • Outline Planning Consent for 9 Dwellings granted by Blaby District Council (Ref: 15/1279/OUT) • Nil Affordable Housing obligation • Comprehensive Developers Information Pack available • Viewing by appointment only Online Information Pack www.matherjamie.co.uk/croft

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01509 233433 www.matherjamie.co.uk Gary Kirk - Email: gary.kirk@matherjamie.co.uk

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I’ve decided to become a vegetarian for attention.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Final home sold at Rearsby Roses development FOLLOWING high demand for quality new homes, all properties at David Wilson Homes’ Rearsby Roses development have now sold. Located off Melton Road in East Goscote, and built on the former site of a well-known rose nursery, Rearsby Roses has proven popular with buyers since construction work began, with high levels of interest and a much higher than average sales rate. With the final property now snapped up, a sense of community is falling over the development as first-time buyers, families, commuters and professionals begin to call it home. Steve Smith, Sales Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “We’re thrilled that so much interest was shown for our Rearsby Roses development and we’ve been able to create a brand new community in the heart of East Goscote. “As a company we pride ourselves in creating more than just quality houses and it’s always nice to see everything fit into place and a community coming together.” The village of Queniborough itself is steeped in history with properties dating back more than 500 years, and boasts plenty of amenities including two popular pubs, a primary school, post office, traditional sweet shop, delicatessen and butchers, while the nearby bustling town of Syston offers a range of high street shops and banks, a well-served railway station and secondary schooling. Steve continued: “The Charnwood area is a fantastic location for many people to set down roots which is why, following the success of Rearsby Roses, we’re continuing to build new homes nearby at The Millstones in Queniborough.”

Potential building plot in Hinckley SCRIVINS & Co Estate Agents are offering for sale a potential single building plot for a one/two bedroom detached house. The land – at 25 Woodland Road, Hinckley, Leicestershire – is situated in a non-estate location within walking distance of local schools and the town. It has a frontage of 10.5 metres and a total site area of 164 sq.metres approx. The asking price is £70,000 and there is no chain. For more information, contact Scrivins & Co on 01455 890480 or email: estateagents@scrivins.co.uk

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Westleigh to build hundreds of new affordable homes LEADING property developer Westleigh, based in Whetstone, is set to build 599 new affordable homes in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and Northamptonshire over the next two years thanks to grant funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The HCA has provided just over £15.69m to the developer to build the affordable homes at 12 sites across the region. The majority of the homes will be made available to rent with some being offered through the government’s Shared Ownership scheme. The investment is part of the HCA’s Affordable Homes Programme which aims to increase the supply of affordable housing in England. The funding will be paid directly to Westleigh by the HCA to deliver the identified schemes before the end of 2018. The funding will allow Westleigh to build developments in the following locations: • 50 new affordable homes are planned to be built in Lincolnshire • 29 homes will be constructed in Northamptonshire • 153 new homes are coming in Derbyshire • 367 homes will be built in Leicestershire In total the developer has secured just under £ 21m in grant funding from the HCA to provide 823 new homes across the East and West Midlands. Of which 564 of the properties will be provided for affordable rent with an additional 259 available through the Shared Ownership scheme. Gary Turner, Head of Partnerships and Investments for Westleigh, commented, “We’re thrilled to have been able to secure this important investment which will support local communities across the country especially as demand for new affordable homes is continuing to increase. “We believe our success demonstrates our experience and understanding of developing affordable housing; we are committed to building on brownfield land to regenerate disused areas and always use sustainable and eco-friendly timber framing to build our affordable homes, which is made by Westframe, the timber framing division of Westleigh.” Westleigh is part of the Homes & Communities Agency Delivery Partner Panel on both the Midlands and Northern lots and work closely together with housing associations to build affordable new homes throughout the East Midlands, South Yorkshire and Cambridgeshire. For further information please telephone 0116 277 3324 or visit www.westleigh.co.uk

Whenever something says ‘sign here’ I can’t help but put Capricorn.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

RICS UK Residential Market Survey, January 2016

Buy-to-let investors flood market ahead of stamp duty rise • • • •

74% of respondents expect there to be an increase in buy-to-let purchases Supply picks up across UK – most notably in London where the increase has been significant Housing market activity on the increase in January as demand and number of sales rise House prices continue to rise across the UK

THE CONTINUOUS lack of supply is the driving force behind the increase in house prices across the East Midlands, according to the RICS UK Residential Market Survey, January 2016. New buyer enquiries rose for the third month in succession during January, with the pace of growth in enquiries accelerating for a second consecutive report. Feedback to the survey continues to suggest that the recent significant increase in demand is due to a rush of buy-to-let investors looking to buy before the 3% Stamp Duty surcharge comes into effect in April. Critically, nationwide 74% of respondents expect there to be an increase of purchases by buy-to-let investors prior to the changes. As activity in the housing market gathers pace overall, agreed sales in the region have risen over the past month. Along with the majority of the UK, the East Midlands has seen a rise in sales since the start of the year and a net balance of 39% of respondents expect to see further increases in the coming year. In comparison to the rest of the UK where supply is gathering pace, 7% of survey respondents from the East Midlands reported a decline in new instructions to sell. Nationwide stock remains low with 46 properties per branch from 44.5 (still 21% down compared to a year ago) and sales instructions across the region remain flat. The lack of supply across the region can mainly be accounted for by the rush to acquire buy to let property, which in turn is impacting further price increase. A net balance of 68% more surveyors reported prices to have risen in January, compared to the national average of 49% (typically the RICS indicator has a six month lead over ONS house price inflation). Looking ahead, house prices are projected to rise further over the next twelve months, with 87% more contributors expecting prices to increase rather than fall. In the lettings market, tenant demand increased once more, with 52% of respondents seeing a rise in interest from prospective tenants during the three months to January. At the same time, landlord instructions fell. This extends an uninterrupted run in which supply has failed to keep pace with demand stretching back to 2009. As a result, expectations point to continued rental growth in all parts of the UK both at twelve month and five year time horizons. Commenting on the lack of supply Partner of Martin Pendered & Co Ltd (Wellingborough), Martin Pendered FRICS said: “January has seen a slow start with new instructions remaining the problem. The demand for new instructions continues to be far stronger than supply. Unless we see a change in the current market then house prices will continue to rise.” RICS Chief Economist, Simon Rubinsohn said: “The rise in buy to let investors rushing to get into the market ahead of the stamp duty hike is driving 2016’s price increase. “How the tax changes planned for the buy to let sector over the next few years play out remains to be seen but there are concerns raised in the survey that some existing landlords will look to either gradually scale back on their portfolios or exit the market altogether as the more penal regime begins to bite. Against this backdrop, it is perhaps not surprising that the key RICS indicators points to further rent (as well as house price) increases.”

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New non-executive chairman appointed at HKS Holdings

GRAHAM SIMS has A superb opportunity to acquire a prime residenti been appointed nonbuilding site lying on the fringe of this sought afte executive chairman at popular village in the heart of the National Forest, one of the UK’s largest onto Occupation Road with outline planning cons independent retail granted for the residential development of up to 8 and petrol station dwellings together with associated access and park owner and operators, arrangements on land adjacent to the rear of 215 Leicester-based HKS Occupation Road. Holdings.

Formerly head of retail Theat indicative plan which has been submitted for BP, Sims’ experience extends planning consent via North West Leicestershire Di across a range of corporate Council under planning reference number 13/0085 and private equity backed businesses in a number of industries shows an attractive scheme of two and three bedr including oil, retail and hospitality. semi-detached properties between 700-900 square His cohesive approach blends brands together to create associated parking. new offerings for businesses, retailers and customers alike. During his time at BP, Sims integrated a number of household The site lies to the rear 207-215 Occup brand partners into BP forecourts across the of UKnumbers and globally. Road which formpositions a long terrace of properties set b He currently holds a number of chair and works in the road is served unmade access d private equity businesses in theside UK,and Europe and by thean US. There existing surface Family-owned HKS is set tois move into a newaccess stage into of the applicatio which will be widened to serve the proposed deve accelerated investment, development and growth which Sims will lead, broadening the business into other consumer sectors. The group will continue the development of its existing portfolio, enhancing its convenience retailing offer and pursuing partnering options with other brands in food and convenience as well as actively seeking new property to add to its network of forecourt sites.

Site for 8 units in Albert Village JOHN GERMAN Estate Agents are offering for sale a flat level site with Outline Planning Permission (ref: 13/00856/OUT) for the residential development of up to 8 dwellings, together with associated access and parking arrangements. The site – at Occupation Road, Albert Village, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 8HA – lies to the rear of numbers 207-215 Occupation Road, which form a long terrace of properties set back from the road, and is served by an unmade access drive. The site is contained by mature hedges and trees along its boundaries with countryside to the east and south, with the aspect to both the front and rear elevations over the National Forest. The asking price is £375,000. For more information, contact John German on 01530 412824 or email: ashbysales@johngerman.co.uk

♦ Land Purchase ♦ Joint Venture Agreements ♦ Planning Agreements ♦ Contract Disputes ♦ Access / Drainage Rights ♦ Options ♦ Plot Sales ♦ Leases For further information and advice, contact either Andrew Eagle at our Leicester Office or Russell Dowling at our Blaby office

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Government Housing Policy Is Short Sighted And Will Not Meet Objectives – Lords Committee

Leicester City Tarmac Trading Ltd (c/o: Ms Georgina Spencer, Portland House, Bickenhill Lane, Solihull, Birmingham B37 7BQ) – Two storey office and single storey extension at side of sub station – at Diddimix Limited, 53 Bradgate Street, Leicester. Mr Thakrar (c/o Agent: Keshiv Sudera, Design Studio Architects Ltd, 1B Salisbury Road, Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QR) – Demolition of garage; two storey & single storey detached building at side of 4 flats to form 2 additional flats – at 1 Sandown Road, Leicester. Mr R Thadha (c/o Agent: R.Kahn, Master Plan Design Ltd, 23 Vulcan House, Vulcan Road, Leicester LE5 3EF) – Change of use of first and second floors and part of ground floor from shop to 4 flats – at 50 St Stephens Road, Leicester. Artish Parmar (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Ltd, 1B Salisbury Road, Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QR) – Notification of proposed change of use of first, second and third floors from offices to flats – at 100 London Road, Leicester. Code Student Accommodation (c/o Agent: Chris May, Marrons Shakespeares, 1 Meridian South, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WY) – One five storey block (76 flats) and one five and nine storey block (203 flats) to provide 279 studio student flats and two floors for ancillary offices and storage – at 52 Western Road, Leicester. Branston Petroleum Services (c/o Agent: Kevin Walters, Walters Architects, 141 London Road, Leicester LE2 1EF) – Change of use of upper floor offices to 6 flats, plus alteration and extension above shop – at 64 Granby Street, Leicester. Mr L De Reinzo (c/o Agent: Chris Rogers, Rickett Architects, Wood Farm, Everdon, Northants. NN11 3BH) – Erection of 2 houses – at land at rear of 19 Spencefield Lane, Leicester. Mr Jack Chooramun (c/o Agent: David Haynes Architect, 56 Leicester Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0DJ) – Change of use of care home to 7 flats plus single storey extension to side – at Ivor Lodge, 452-454 Hinckley Road, Leicester. Mr Paresh Patel (c/o Agent: Keshiv Sudera, Design Studio Architects Limited, 1B Salisbury Road, Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QR) – Demolition of part of public house, refurbishment of public house, erection of 6 dwelling houses – at John O’Gaunt Public House, Somerset Avenue, Leicester.

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THE HOUSE of Lords Committee on National Policy for the Built Environment has asserted the importance of delivering a better built environment and criticised current government policy as unlikely to meet demand for either the quantity or quality of houses we need. The Committee was told that around 240,000 new houses are needed each year to meet existing demand; they conclude that it is not possible to meet this target through reliance on private sector developers alone. The Committee concludes that the Government will not succeed in building the houses the country needs unless local authorities and housing associations are allowed to play a bigger role in building. In order to facilitate this the Committee recommend that the Government review the borrowing restrictions on local authorities and review its own decision to reduce social rents, a key source of funding for local housing provision. The Committee is also extremely concerned about the quality of new developments, and the risk of housing delivery being prioritised at the expense of other elements of the built environment. The Committee calls for local communities and local authorities to be empowered to demand high standards from developers. The Committee expresses concern that the focus on the speed and quantity of housing developments poses a threat to sustainable planning for the longterm, quality, design standards and place-making. The report states that the easing of restrictions on converting office property to residential use, combined with very strong emphasis on the financial viability of new developments, weakens the ability of local authorities to properly scrutinise planning proposals. The Committee calls on the Government to revise the National Planning Policy Framework to reduce the unreasonable use of viability assessments by developers to avoid funding affordable housing and infrastructure. The report states that the relaxation of planning restrictions and the removal of national building standards, including the zero carbon homes requirement, risks storing-up long term problems if poor quality developments are approved without proper scrutiny. The Committee states that “speed need not come at the expense of quality, and a shortsighted approach runs the risk of repeating the mistakes of the past.” Other recommendations in the report include: • The Government should reconsider the proposal to include ‘starter homes’ within the definition of affordable housing as starter homes cease to include any element of affordability after five years. The Committee says the current proposals “risks undermining mixed communities and preventing the delivery of genuinely affordable housing for the long-term.” • The Government should appoint a Chief Built Environment Advisor to champion higher standards in the built environment across Government departments. • The Government should make design review mandatory for all major planning applications, in order to offset the long-term burdens and costs of poor quality design. • Local Authority planning departments need to be better resourced and the planning profession needs to rediscover the prestige it once had. The Committee calls for more bursaries for planning students, and a greater emphasis on ‘proactive planning’ from local authorities.

Site for 3 houses in Hinckley CASTLE ESTATES are inviting offers over £300,000 for a building plot for 3 houses. The land – at Nutts Lane, Hinckley, Leicestershire – has planning permission for 3 four-bed detached houses with an access road and potential for further development. For more information, contact Castle Estates on 01455 617997 or email: info@castles-online.co.uk

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr Bains Purewal (c/o Agent: Dennis Dziko, Volta Designs, Kemp House, 152 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX) – Change of use from single dwelling to 9 flats; increase in roof house; three storey side extension and single storey rear extension – at 157 Harrison Road, Leicester. Leicester Football Club PLC (c/o Agent: William Savage, Pick Everard, Halford House, Charles Street, Leicester LE1 1HA) - Variation of condition attached to planning permission 20072228: Condition 34 (Approved Plans) to allow amendments to the design of the multi storey car park and omit the hotel - at Leicester Rugby Football Club, Aylestone Road, Leicester. Mr Russ Smith (c/o Agent: Michael Blanksby, 8 Cottsfoot Close, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7GB) – Two storey building containing 11 extra care flats, with communal facilities – at rear of 15 Holmwood Drive, Leicester. Granby Street Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Miss Danielle St Pierre, Iceni Projects, Flitcroft House, 114116 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0JR) – Change of use of first and second floors from restaurant to 12 studio student flats – at 26-28 Granby Street, Leicester. XWR Limited (c/o Agent: Nicholas Williams, NCW Architecture, 39 Holmdale Road, London NW6 1BJ) – Three storey extension on top of existing single storey element to side to provide 9 flats – at Athena, Queen Street, Leicester. Mr Imtiaz Alimohamed (c/o: Cash & Carry Beds Ltd, 48 Westcotes Drive, Leicester LE3 0QR) – Two storey building for 2 one-bed flats – at 54A Westcotes Drive, Leicester.

Melton Borough M Duffin Builders Ltd (c/o Agent: Samantha Griffiths, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Business Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Approval of reserved matters: housing development comprising 8 bungalows with associated garaging – at Hall Farm, 1 Melton Road, Waltham on the Wolds, Leics. LE14 4AJ. Hazelton Homes & Mark Curtis Bennett (c/o Agent: Lee Staniforth, Staniforth Architects Ltd, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Residential development for up to 32 dwellings – at Field OS 3300, Oakham Road, Somerby, Leics.

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Sponsors Mather Jamie welcome Leicester Riders to their new home COMMEMORATIVE bottles of whisky have been presented to The Leicester Riders by local chartered surveyors and loyal team sponsors Mather Jamie. The team’s Head Coach Rob Paternostro and one of their leading players Tyler Bernardini received the 25-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from Martin Ward, Director and cofounder of Mather Jamie, to mark both the basketball team’s relocation to the newly opened Leicester Sports Arena and to commemorate Mather Jamie’s 25 years in business. Mather Jamie has sponsored the Leicester Riders since 2012 and is currently involved in a two year sponsorship with the basketball team, which has recently begun training and playing Leicester Riders’ Tyler Bernardini and home games at the £4.8m Arena on Charter Rob Paternostro receive 25-year-old commemorative Street in Leicester. whisky from Mather Jamie’s co-founder and Martin Ward, Director at Mather Jamie, Director Martin Ward. said, “We’re very proud to be associated with a successful local team such as the Leicester Riders, who do so much great work with local schools through their community program, the Riders Foundation, and it’s great to see them settling into their new home at the impressive new Leicester Sports Arena. “As a ‘moving present’ we wanted to present them with our own special, 25-year-old single malt whisky, which has been maturing now for as long as we’ve been doing business.” Rob Paternostro said, “This is a very thoughtful and generous gift from Mather Jamie, which we really appreciate, along with their continued support. I’d also like to congratulate them on their 25 years of success so far and wish them many more in the future.” Leicester Riders player Tyler Bernardini said; “I thank the Directors of Mather Jamie for this special gift celebrating their 25th anniversary – it is a delight to be connected with such a successful business.”

Potential plot in Barwell SCRIVINS & CO. Estate Agents are offering for sale a potential building plot for a three-bed detached house near open countryside. The land – adjacent to 148 Kirkby Road, Barwell, Leicestershire – has a frontage of 6 metres and an approximate depth of 60 metres. The asking price is £75,000 and there is no chain. For further details, contact Scrivins & Co on 01455 890480 or email: estateagents@scrivins.co.uk

Plot for 9 houses in Barwell CASTLE ESTATES are asking £425,000 for a large building plot with planning consent for 9 houses. The land – Off St Mary’s Court, Barwell, Leicestershire – extends to 0.74 acres. Planning consent (ref: 14/00124/ OUT) was granted on 7th April 2014 and can be viewed on the Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council website. For more information, contact Castle Estates on 01455 617997 or email: info@castles-online.co.uk

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Nailstone site for sale by informal tender CARTWRIGHT HANDS Estate Agents are offering for sale by Informal Tender a development site at 81 Bagworth Road, Nailstone, Nuneaton, Warwickshire. CV13 0QJ. The 1.14 acre site comprises a residential house with adjacent development sites having Outline Planning Permission (ref: 15/00196/OUT) for the erection of 8 dwellings and retention of the existing dwelling known as Longacre House. The development element will comprise 6 up to four bedroom detached houses on the paddock that fronts onto Bagworth Road. To the rear of Longacre House are 2 bungalows that are to be accessed via a new private drive. For sale by INFORMAL TENDER as a whole or in three lots with a closing date of 12 noon on Friday 18th March 2016. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Guy Hands at Cartwright Hands on 02476 350700 or email: grh@cartwrighthands.co.uk

S V Timber opens in South Wigston INDEPENDENT timber merchants S V Timber Limited has opened its door for business on Magna Road in South Wigs ton. It is the company’s second depot with its head office branch based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. The new venture which is situated opposite the former iconic Premier Drum factory has taken over an 18,000ft2 warehouse which was originally a storage warehouse for Brookes Bros famous for its Pukka Pies. A significant investment has gone in to the building to make it ideal premises for servicing both trade and retail customers needs for timber. The company has so far employed 5 local people and it will continue to make further local appointments as the business grows. The team is headed up by Company Director Tudor Jones and by Branch Manager Steve Noel. Both Tudor and Steve live locally and have worked in the Builders and Timber Merchants industry in Leicestershire for over 50 years combined. Director Tudor Jones commented: “We have had a terrific response from both existing and new customers so far and are looking forward to a prosperous time ahead, we have tried to encourage potential new customers to come and have a look at the premises because we think we have the ‘Wow’ factor. “Customers really like the fact that all of our structural timbers are kept inside and under cover, they also like the layout as they can easily see what we have in stock.” Managing Director Ed Holder who also lives locally and has also worked for many years in the industry also commented: “This expansion is a big step forward for the company, from its humble beginnings 11 years ago we now have two superb sites servicing the whole of the East Midlands and beyond. The new branch which will offer the full range of timber products and also offers cutting and machining facilities, this will also be backed up by our free local delivery service. The company is further complimented by our sister company Amber Mills Timber based in Alfreton who stock a wide range of hardwoods. “Our philosophy is pretty simple; we buy quality products at competitive prices which enables us to sell competitively. We always maintain a focus on customer service and have a ‘can do’ attitude; this has been a winning formula for us and will continue to be in the future.” S V Timber Ltd can be contacted at Unit 2 Magna Road, South Wigston, Leicester LE18 4ZH and by phone on 0116 244 4840 or by email at leicester@svtimber.co.uk

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Davidsons Development Ltd (c/o Agent: G Longley, Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derbyshire DE74 2SL) – Development to the south of Melton Mowbray – at Field OS 6430, Kirby Lane, Melton Mowbray, Leics.

Harborough District Mr M Myatt (c/o Agent: Isherwood McCann, Rose Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4DP) – Outline application for the erection of 2 dwellings; part demolition of existing dwelling and demolition of workshop buildings and for change of use of workshop to ancillary residential accommodation – at Sleath Farm, Ashby Road, Gilmorton, Leics. LE17 5LY. Mr P Broughton-Hall (c/o Agent: Isherwood McCann, Rose Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leics. LE8 4DP) – Outline application for the erection of up to 8 dwellings – at land adjacent to Broughton Hall Fencing, Mill Lane, Gilmorton, Leics. Aldi Stores Ltd (c/o Agent: Stoas Architects, 216 Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham B24 9FD) – Erection of a food retail store with associated car parking, servicing and landscaping – at Aldi Stores, 163 Buxton Crescent, Broughton Astley, Leics. Lifespace Developments (c/o Agent: Lifespace Design Studios, Unit 1, Preston Lodge Court, Preston Deanery, Northamptonshire NN7 2DS) – Demolition of existing coach house and erection of 8 dwellings with associated access and landscaping (Revised Scheme) – at 9B Misterton Way, Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 4AB. Ann Jennifer Jones & Francis Jackson Homes Ltd (c/o: 6 High Street, Olney, Bucks. MK46 4BB) – Outline planning application for up to 27 dwellings plus accesses to the public highway – at land at east side of Mill Lane, Gilmorton, Leics. Riverwood Homes (c/o Agent: Isherwood McCann, Rose Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leics. LE8 4DP) – Erection of 6 dwellings and garages – at land adjacent to 10 Laughton Road, Lubenham, Leics. Mr Wright (c/o Agent: ADM Surveyors Ltd, 3A The Parade, Needham Avenue, Glen Parva, Leics. LE2 9JW) – Erection of 2 dwellings with associated parking – at Evergreen, Field Farm, Pincet Lane, North Kilworth, Leics. LE17 6NE.

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Women starting out in property hardest hit by gender pay gap • • •

Male property professionals earn on average £7000 more than female counterparts Gender pay gap most prominent among 18-22 year olds Sector salaries up 7.1% overall

ALARIES for UK property professionals have continued to rise at an average increase of 7.1% in 2016, according to the latest survey by RICS and Macdonald & Company.

However, the gender pay gap continues with male property professionals earning £7,000 pa more on average than female counterparts (£57,509 versus £45,689). While this gap has closed slightly, from 27.0% last year to 25.9% in 2016, the discrepancy is evident across all age groups and is most acute for those aged between 18-22, where the difference in average salary is 28.7%. Competition for talent continues with the average salary increase awarded to respondents who moved employer in the last year reaching 16.2%, while the average increase received by respondents under 30 jumped by 12%. Bonuses awarded to entry level candidates jumped by 79% this year and employees at this level are also most likely to move job – of those who indicated they are likely to look to change roles this year 35% are relatively inexperienced, compared to 19% last year. RICS Equalities Manager, Justine Wallis-Leggett, commented: “The fact that 64% of respondents reported a rise in salary will offer cold comfort to the many women in the sector, especially those at entry level, who are once again confronted with a significant gender pay gap. The industry must urgently take action to create a more balanced workforce that attracts the best talent if it wants to remain competitive. “We can achieve this by introducing inclusive working practices such as flexible working. These are key to employee engagement, and in an increasingly competitive market, employers cannot afford to create MATHER JAMIE are working environments that only serve the needs of a small majority of the offering for sale a residential workforce. development site with “RICS has launched an Inclusive Employer Quality Mark, which Outline Planning Consent asks employers to put inclusivity at the heart of what they do, and aims for 4 dwellings with to support them in sharing best practice, and we would urge all firms to garaging. put their money where their mouth is by signing up. Until there is a true The 0.62 acre site - at Paddock commitment to change within the sector, we will continue to see results Close, Long Whatton, Near like these and the subsequent drift of talent away from our sector.” Loughborough, Leics. LE12 Looking at the picture regionally – those working in the Midlands saw 5BW - is currently used as amenity one of the greatest growths in their annual basic salary up by 1% from land. It is situated at the end of last year and just behind Scotland (+2%). The Midlands are also the Paddock Close, which is a private most optimistic across the nation with 56% of respondents expecting an driveway within the ownership of increase in economic activity in the next twelve months. De Montfort Housing Association, Across rest of the UK - those working in greater London continue to who retain ownership of earn, on average, the most (£65,050) and command a premium of 20.8% neighbouring property. over the South East and 52.2% over Ireland. The majority of the rest of the Outline Planning Consent (ref: UK have indicated only a slight growth in average annual salaries. 13/00497/OUT) was granted by RICS qualifications continue to show their merit with a FRICS earning NW Leics. District Council on 18th £69,885 in comparison to a non RICS counterpart (£43,905) while those September 2013 for four dwellings with a RICS part qualification secured the highest average salary increase and garages. up £5,198 from £37,837 to £43,035 (+13.7%). By obtaining professional View the online information qualifications, such as RICS, 21.6% of respondents reported receiving a pack at www.matherjamie.co.uk/ pay rise. paddockclose. Looking beyond 2016, 43% of respondents expect to see further For sale by Private Treaty - for increases in pay and benefits – the basic salary is the highest it has been more information, contact Robert for nine years. 58% of respondents also believe their employers will Cole or Gary Kirk at Mather Jamie increase their headcount with 37% of that intake being at a student or on 01509 233433 or email: robert. graduate level. cole@matherjamie.co.uk or The full document is also available via: gary.kirk@matherjamie.co.uk www.rics.org/uk/join/benefits-plus/salary-survey-results-

Residential development site in Long Whatton

sentiment-steady-despite-a-slower-market/

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

David Wilson Homes (c/o: Forest Business Park, Cartwright Way, Bardon Hill, Coalville, Leics. LE67 1GL) – Erection of up to 200 dwellings and a community facility with associated parking – at land north of Fleckney Road, Kibworth Beauchamp, Leics. Shieling Properties & Mr N Matthews (c/o Agent: Landmark Planning Ltd, 10 Salisbury Road, Leicester LE1 7QR) – Erection of 8 dwellings with access, parking and landscaping – at Gilmorton House, Lutterworth Road, Gilmorton, Leics. LE17 5PH.

Hinckley & Bosworth Asda Stores Ltd (c/o Agent: Mrs Kate Gapper, RPS Planning & Development, Park House, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff CF10 3AF) – Demolition of nos 26 & 28 Barwell Lane, and the erection of an automated petrol filling station (Revised Scheme) – at Asda, Barwell Lane, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1SS. Fairfield Properties (Bucks) Ltd (c/o Agent: David Granger Architectural Design Ltd, The Old Dairy, Mill Street, Packington, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1WN) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at land adjacent to 20 Lindridge Lane, Desford, Leicester LE9 9GN. Mr Steve Hardy (c/o Agent: Neil McMinn, Ink/Drawn, 21 The Annexe, 3 Junior Street, Leicester LE1 3TD) – Conversion of retail units to 25 flats, retention of 2 retail units and demolition of buildings – at 68 Wood Street, Earl Shilton, Leics. LE9 7ND. Mr Joe Menna (c/o Agent: Lance Wiggins, Landmark Planning Ltd, 10 Salisbury Road, Leicester LE1 7QR) – Erection of 68 dwellings with access, parking and landscaping – at Richard Roberts Dyers Ltd, Southfield Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1UA.

Rutland County Mr Matthew Brown (c/o Agent: Tony Ansell, Rutland Planning, 2 Harewood Close, Langham, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7JZ) – Erection of 4 detached dwellings – at Glaston Vehicle Repair Workshop & Garage, 2 Main Street, Glaston, Oakham, Rutland LE15 9BP. Larkfleet Homes (c/o: Larkfleet House, Falcon Way, Bourne, Lincs. PE10 0FF) – Reserved matters application for erection of apartment block comprising 24 apartments and associated parking and infrastructure – at land between Barleythorpe and Burley Park Way, Barleythorpe, Rutland.

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New home and renovation predictions for 2016 WITH CONSTRUCTION output anticipated to grow by 3.6% in 2016 there will be an increase in people looking to update existing properties on a grand scale and build homes to exacting specifications. However, as buyers become more discerning and demand higher quality workmanship what are the predictions for residential renovations and bespoke homes projects this year? Jon Over from Goldstone Homes specialises in renovation and new build homes for the residential sector. He provides his forecast for what is likely to be popular in the world of home updates and new builds during 2016.

Wood: we are going to be seeing much more use of quality wood in internal spaces for both structural and decorative purposes. Luxury materials such as oak provide the simultaneous benefits of being hard wearing and aesthetically pleasing and work equally as well in traditional and modern settings. Decorative wooden beams, sash style windows and ornamental staircases will all be popular. Open plan: how we live continues to influence our choice in floorplan design. Providing spacious and airy living spaces will remain high on the agenda of many renovation and restoration projects. There will be a lean towards opening up bedroom suites, for example with frosted glass, to provide more fluidity between the sleeping area and bathroom as well as larger storage areas that fit discreetly into and become one with the overall design. Balconies: adding outdoor space is moving upwards as balconies become increasingly popular as part of a trend towards updating the fascias of existing properties and increasing the value and appeal of new builds. The addition of a balcony to uninspiring or bland box shaped properties creates interest and delivers curb appeal to what was previously a flat and dull exterior. Glass: bi-folding doors and glass walls will feature strongly as occupants look for ways to create a harmonious connection between internal living spaces and the outdoors. In addition to achieving the illusion of extra space and letting in light, the combination of glass with brick or wood adds a stylish touch to any property. Building techniques: Eco-friendly building techniques, such as Passivhaus, will continue to rise in popularity. Reducing the ecological footprint of a building, increasing energy efficiency and sustainability, and cutting household overheads will all play a pivotal role in the design, style and building methods used on new build and retrofit projects and the desire of occupants to live in ‘healthier’ homes. For more information about Goldstone Homes, please visit www.goldstonehomes.co.uk

Farm Buildings and Land For Sale By Auction SHOULER & Son Estate Agents are offering for sale BY AUCTION a delightful farm and adjacent detached cottage ready for modernisation or redevelopment, subject to suitable planning consents. The property is situated in Beeby, Leicestershire and is being offered for sale by auction on Thursday 10th March 2016 at Melton Mowbray Cattle Market. To be sold in 3 separate lots. Lot 1 – Substantial Grade II Listed detached Farm House requiring full modernisation along with an adjacent detached cottage for modernisation, extensive range of barns and farm buildings, former farm yard, and grounds including orchard and paddock area, in all around 3.7 acres. Lot 2 – 9.5 acre arable field. Lot 3 – 4.78 acres of grass paddock. For further details, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or email: housesales@shoulers.co.uk

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Correction to asking price Secretary of State for Defence (c/o Agent: David Alderson, WYG Group, 314 Midsummer Court, Midsummer Boulevard, Central Milton Keynes, Bucks. MK29 2UB) – Erection of specialist facilities including 2 new technical stores, a 72-bed Junior Ranks Single Living Accommodation block, a servicing lanes building, senior NCO’s Mess, physical and recreational training facility and obstacle course – at HM Forces, Kendrew Barracks, School Road, Cottesmore, Oakham, Rutland LE15 7BL.

N.W.Leics. District Mr M Specht (c/o Agent: Andrew Large Surveyors, The Estate Office, Staunton Harold Hall, Melbourne Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1RT) – Erection of 3 detached dwellings with garages – at land adjacent to 67 Loughborough Road, Coleorton, Coalville, Leics. LE67 8HJ. Mr R Cornes (c/o Agent: Timothy Wayne, Green 2K Design Ltd, First Floor, Thomas Henry House, 1-5 Church Street, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3BU) – Erection of 7 dwellings comprising 5 new build dwellings and 2 within the partially retained community centre (Reserved Matters) – at Community Centre, Dragwell, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2EL.

Earl Shilton land with consent for 4 apartments CASTLE Estates are offering for sale a plot of land with outline planning permission for the erection of four apartments, situated in a popular and convenient location. The land - adjacent to 42 Station Road Earl Shilton LE9 7GA - is being offered at an asking price of £110,000. Details of application can be viewed on the Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council website - Application Number 15/00181/ OUT. For more information, contact Gavin Kirkham at Castle Estates on 01455 617997 or email: Gavink@castles-online.co.uk EDITOR’S NOTE: This property appeared in last month’s issue but we accidentally quoted the wrong asking price. Apologies!

New leisure centre countdown begins

Hinckley leisure centre opens spring 2016

Mr Graeme Major (c/o Agent: Steve Malocco, Pick Everard, Halford House, Charles Street, Leicester LE1 1HA) – Two storey extension to Fire Station – at Coalville Fire Station, Broad Street, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3PU. Meadowview Homes (c/o Agent: Michael Bamford, Planning Design, 4 Woburn House, Derby DE1 1UL) – Erection of 12 dwellings and associated infrastructure (Reserved Matters) – at 3 Top Street, Appleby Magna, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7AH. Westleigh Partnerships (c/o Agent: Marie Stacey, Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derbyshire DE74 2SL) – Erection of 28 dwellings and associated infrastructure – at Former Cresswell Coaches Site, 3 Shortheath Road, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6AL. Mr R Gray (c/o Agent: Christopher Timothy, CT Planning Ltd, Trafalgar House, 20A Market Street, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6LH) – Residential development of up to 30 dwellings and associated infrastructure – at Talbot Place, Donisthorpe, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7PU.

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HINCKLEY’S new £15million leisure centre on the site of the former council offices on Argents Mead is set to open this Spring. The plans were submitted by Places for People Leisure and the company now looks forward to running the new centre on behalf of the Borough Council for the next 20 years. The new state-of-the-art facility features an eight court sports hall, an enhanced gym with a large range of brand new equipment and varied classes for all ages. The swimming area includes an eight lane 25 metre main pool, learner pool, both with moveable floors, disability access and a separate wet play area ideal for young families, which will be called the ‘Splash Pad’. The centre also includes some additional comforts for its members, including a sauna and steam room on poolside, improved cafe area and a large children’s adventure play centre. Plans for the new facility are available to view via a number of methods. Come and visit the porta cabin marketing suite situated outside the old leisure centre on Coventry Road. Or add “Hinckley Leisure Centre” on Facebook to view a computer generated fly through of the state of the art centre. The grand opening weekend of the Hinckley Leisure Centre will feature lots of free activities, great new memberships, an opportunity to meet the Mascot and take part with Oak FM’s Mark and Twiggy radio competitions. The current leisure centre on Coventry Road in Hinckley will remain open until the new facility opens in spring 2016. For further information visit:www.hinckleyleisurecentre.org www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/leisure centre

LGA Responds To CLG Committee On Right To Buy Extension

RESPONDING to the Communities and Local Government Select Committee report on Housing Associations and Right to Buy, Cllr Peter Box, Housing spokesman at the Local Government Association, said: “Councils want to help the Government shift spending from benefits to bricks and support measures to help people into home ownership but we agree with the Committee that the Right to Buy extension to housing association tenants should absolutely not be funded by forcing councils to sell off their homes. “As a minimum, we forecast councils would be forced to sell 22,000 ‘high value’ homes in order to fund plans to extend the Right to Buy scheme. This number could be much higher depending on how government chooses to define ‘high value’. Councils should always be free to manage their assets to meet the needs of local communities and must retain 100 per cent of all receipts. “New housing measures, such as the loss of £2.2 billion from council housing budgets by 2020 as a result of social housing rent cuts, risk making building any replacements all but impossible. This loss of social rented housing risks pushing more families into the private rented sector, driving up housing benefit spending and rents and making it more difficult for families to save the deposit needed for their first house. “Rather than funding the sale of affordable homes by selling other affordable homes, the Government should fund the Right to Buy extension by working with councils to raise £13 billion by building more homes on public land. This is more than enough to fund the extension over the long-term and would protect vital council investment in the genuinely affordable homes our communities so desperately need.”

Are you selling building plots or development properties? Send details to us and we’ll mention them FREE in the next issue. Email particulars to: info@buildermagazines. co.uk and we’ll do the rest!

Why am I always the last to know that I’m in an open relationship?

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr D Burrows (c/o Agent: Martin Ladd, Housemartin Designs, The Carthouse, Charnells Court, Main Street, Swepstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2SG) – Erection of 3 detached two-storey dwellings with associated off-street parking, along with demolition of modern outbuildings – at site off Snarrows Road, Osgathorpe, Leics. Mountpark Logistics EU 2015 Sarl 09 (c/o Agent: Steven Harley, Oxalis Planning Ltd, Unit 7 Wheatcroft Business Park, Landmere Lane, Edwalton, Nottingham NG12 4DG) – Erection of storage and distribution unit – at Little Battleflat Farm, Beveridge Lane, Ellistown, Leics. LE67 1FB. Mr & Mrs A Kirkby (c/o Agent: Lee Alesbrook, Lifestyle Architectural Services, 19 Victoria Road, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3AG) – Demolition of buildings and erection of 4 residential units – at 17 Moira Road, Donisthorpe, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7QD.

Charnwood Borough Charles Street Buildings (c/o Agent: Marrons Shakespeares) – Erection of 5 commercial industrial units – at Thurmaston Industrial Estate, Melton Road, Thurmaston, Leicester LE4 8EF. Mr S Turner (c/o Agent: Robert Powell) – Erection of 4 dwellings – at land at rear of 99 Seagrave Road, Sileby, Leics. LE12 7TW. Turley Associates – Request for Screening Opinion relating to proposed 64-bed residential care home – at land at Quorn Football Club, Farley Way, Quorn, Leics. Mr Anthony Willmott – Erection of side extension to community centre – at Thurmaston Silverdale Community Centre, Silverdale Drive, Thurmaston, Leicester LE4 8NJ. Mr A & Mr P Harris (c/o Agent: Stansgate Planning) – Redevelopment of site to provide 8 semi-detached and terraced dwelling with new vehicular and pedestrian accesses onto Garden Street and Margaret Close – at The Old Coal Yard, Garden Street, Thurmaston, Leicester LE4 8DS.

Blaby District Mr Tilley (c/o Agent: C A Underwood, The Barn, Church Lane, Ravenstone, Coalville, Leics. LE67 2AE) – Conversion of existing house to form a pair of semi-detached dwellings, including alterations and extensions and erection of garage to rear – at 8 Grange Drive, Glen Parva, Leicester LE2 9PF.

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HAE EHA announce £100k Higham Ferrers site with consent fund to boost apprentices for 24 dwellings HARWOODS Estate Agents in the hire industry are offering for sale a THE HIRE Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA) has announced the launch of a major scheme that will see hire companies incentivised to take on apprentices.

Recognising small businesses face additional cost pressures when recruiting new staff, and in particular apprentices in their first year, HAE EHA is offering companies an opportunity to play a part in developing the hire skills of the Graham Arundell, future. By making a fund of £100,000 available, managing director from the associations’ budget, to their membership of the HAE EHA they’re hoping that more apprenticeships will be created. This new £100,000 fund provides enough support for up to 60 apprentices; allowing for an hourly increase in wages in year one from the government’s recommended £3.30 to at least £4.12, representing a top up of £1,500 per apprentice. This makes it a competitive choice in comparison to other training and employment options. It is hoped that HAE EHA will help smaller businesses to make the leap and take on an apprentice who will add value to their organisation. Eligible businesses will need to be SafeHire certificated; in HAE membership for at least one year and have an annual turnover of less than £1 million. Other conditions apply, such as the need for the chosen apprenticeship scheme to be recognised and lead to an NVQ; only one apprentice per business will be eligible for the HAE EHA funding and funding is only available for the first year. Graham Arundell, HAE EHA Managing Director said; “With the apprenticeship levy looming and almost weekly pronouncements on how business needs to create more apprenticeships, it is vital that HAE EHA supports our membership. By making the £100,000 fund available we’re demonstrating our commitment to helping small businesses take up the challenge. The HAE EHA fund will boost the attractiveness of hire for the employee and help meet extra costs for the employer. It’s a win, win situation for all concerned.” For more information about how to apply for funding and full conditions please contact Richard Whiting, HAE EHA by emailing: ApprenticeFunding@hae.org.uk

cleared site extending to 0.72 acres with planning permission for up to 24 dwellings.

The property – at 77 Kimbolton Road, Higham Ferrers, Northants. NN10 8HL – is a cleared brownfield site which has a prominent frontage to Kimbolton Road with a return frontage to Chichele Street. Formerly the site of a factory unit, the buildings have been demolished and the site cleared in readiness for residential development. Reserved matters approval was secured on 9th April 2009 for the demolition of the existing buildings and redevelopment of 24 dwellings pursuant to the Outline Planning Permission ref: EN/04/02158/OUT dated 21st March 2006. The buildings on site have been demolished which is considered a material start on site and therefore planning permission is extant. The original planning permission was subject to a Section 106 Agreement relating to a committed payment of £38,591 (index linked) towards education and £3,948 towards public open space and play area equipment. For more information, contact Stuart Reynolds at Harwoods on 01933 441464 or email: stuart@ harwoodsproperty.co.uk

Jeld-Wen Launches Technical Specification Guide For Stairs JELD-WEN, the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber windows, doors and stairs is helping housebuilders, developers, architects and specifiers understand the specifics of stairs, with the launch of its brand new technical specification guide for stairs - available now. The guide contains detailed information about materials, accreditations and installation guidance as well as technical drawings, 3D visualisations and project case studies to help when specifying stair products. The new stairs guide provides an overview of the full JELD-WEN stair range, covering components required and the various design options available. It also includes essential Building Regulations information, stair performance details and a selection of common stair layouts for England, Wales and Scotland. Mike Ward, Managing Director at JELD-WEN, said: “When working to strict Building Regulations or planning criteria it’s useful to have a quick reference guide to product accreditations and standards for stair products. Exact dimensions are also key, particularly at the design stages, so we’ve developed our stairs technical guide with the needs of developers, architects and specifiers in mind. “We have a vast range of stairs to suit different budgets and development criteria from private housing to communal building projects. We are also the only UK manufacturer of LPBC certified fire protected timber staircases.” To download the new guide, visit www.jeld-wen.co.uk.

Based on my calculations, I can retire five years after I die.

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

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Planning to make changes? Howkins & Harrison has a dedicated team of Chartered Town Planners who are able to draw upon a number of years’ consultancy and local authority experience in the Midlands region, to provide you with an effective planning consultancy service. If you have a development project in mind, whether it is a small extension to your house, through to a larger residential or commercial scheme, Howkins & Harrison’s Planning & Development Team would be pleased to assist. The Planning Team can be contacted on 01788 564676. Residential | Commercial | Rural

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Mr W Torr (c/o Agent: Peter Thompson ADT Ltd, Providence House, 49 Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6QE) – Erection of 2 semi-detached dormer bungalows – at Former Council Garages Site, Ellis Close, Glenfield, Leicester. Morcott Developments Ltd (c/o: Unit A1, The Croft, High Street, Whetstone, Leicester LE8 6LQ) – Erection of 4 dwellings and creation of new access and associated parking/turning areas (including demolition of existing dwelling) – at 30 High Street, Whetstone, Leics. LE8 6LP.

Oadby & Wigston Mr Singh (c/o: 77 Braunstone Gate, Leicester LE3 5LH) – Erection of 2½ storey extension to provide extension to retail space and 8 self-contained studio flats – at 271 Leicester Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 1JW. Mr Nigel Dutton (c/o Agent: Will Aust, 11 Leicester Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 2AE) – Demolition of existing buildings, erection of new Area Special School, and associated external works – at Abington House, 85 Station Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2DP.

Barlestone plot for sale by auction: £80k guide HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale BY AUCTION a single building plot having a frontage of approximately 12 metres. The property - The Former Barlestone Village Hall, Barton Road, Barlestone, Nuneaton CV13 0EP - is being offered for sale By Auction on 15th March 2016 at the Appleby Inn Hotel, Atherstone Road, Appleby Magna, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 7AP at 6.30 pm. It is located with a good road frontage of approximately 12 metres and an overall site area of 514 sq metres or thereabouts (609 sq yds), The property has planning permission granted in outline (ref: 15/01139/ OUT) by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council dated 15th December 2015. The planning consent is subject to certain conditions and a copy of the planning decision is available from the auctioneers offices, 40A Market Street, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leics. The Guide Price is £80,000. For more information, contact Michael Fallowell at Howkins & Harrison on 01530 877977.

Mr Simon Allen (c/o Agent: Malcolm Goodall, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Outline application for 3 new dwellings – at 66 Blunts Lane, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2HA.

Nuneaton & Bedworth Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council (c/o Agent: RG+P Ltd, 130 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7JA) – Erection of 5 dwellings – at Cemetery Lodge, Oaston Road, Nuneaton, Warks. CV11 6JZ.

North Warks Borough Mr Daniel Swift (c/o Agent: Bailey Design Ltd, 43a Mitchells Court, Lower Gungate, Tamworth, Staffs. B79 7AS) – Construct 2 three-bed houses with associated parking – at 35 Church Walk, Atherstone, Warks. CV9 1AJ.

Rushcliffe Mr Barry Collington (c/o Agent: James Bird, Henry Mein Partnership, 12 Clarendon Street, Nottingham NG1 5HQ) – Construction of 2 dwellings and access onto Melton Road – at land north of 290 Melton Road, Edwalton, Nottinghamshire.

Continued over the page ...>

Don’t forget to send us your news! Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk If cats could talk, they wouldn’t and it’d be unnerving.

Hinckley’s BID Director praised by High Streets Minister HINCKLEY’S BID Director has been praised by High Streets Minister Marcus Jones for his efforts to make Hinckley in Leicestershire a better place to live, work and socialise. Jonathan White and the Hinckley Town Centre Partnership are among 13 individuals, ideas and schemes to receive a “Special Recognition” award by the Minister and Simon Roberts, co-chair of the Future High Streets Forum, as part of the Great British High Street Awards. Jonathan’s hard work includes creating the Hinckley Digital High Street Initiative - producing a loyalty card, app, wi-fi and social media platforms with the goal to become the first truly digital high street by 2019. High Street Minister Marcus Jones said: “High streets are the life and soul of cities, towns and villages across the country, but they rely greatly on the support they receive from an army of businesses, traders and volunteers. “Jonathan White and the other Special Recognition award winners are fantastic examples of the people that give their all - day in and day out - to make our communities better places to live, work and socialise. “I’d like to commend you for your fantastic contribution and thank you for all your hard work.” Jonathan White said: “I’m really happy to be given this special recognition award. Our Town Centres are the heart of our communities and their survival is critical to our local economies and we are really glad that by working together with our partners we’ve managed to highlight the importance of high streets across the country.” A record number of 230 high streets entered the Great British High Street Awards 2015 and nearly 200,000 votes were cast across the seven award categories. Bishopthorpe Road in York was crowned Britain’s best high street at a recent award ceremony in London. The Special Recognition category has been introduced to focus on individuals and organisations that are making a real difference to our high streets. The Awards are one of a number of initiatives to help champion high streets as the cornerstones of the community. For more information visit www. thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Marstons Estates Ltd (c/o Agent: Justin Howell, Creda Planning, Vesey House, 5-7 High Street, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham B72 1XH) – Erection of retail unit with parking, landscaping, acoustic fencing and associated works – at land west of 2 Nottingham Road, Cropwell Bishop, Nottinghamshire. Mr Cameron Ross (c/o Agent: Peter Prescott, PP Building Design Ltd, The Old Court House, Church Street, Bingham, Nottinghamshire NG13 8AL) – Demolition of 2 Bunny Lane, and redevelopment of site for residential purposes – at 2 Bunny Lane, Keyworth, Nottinghamshire NG12 5JW. Mr & Mrs J W Rigley (c/o Agent: Ms Caroline Chave, Chave Planning, Enterprise Centre, Bridge Street, Derby DE1 3LD) – Demolition of existing dwelling; erection of 52 dwellings; conversion of barns to 2 dwellings; formation of access and provision of open space and infrastructure – at 235 Melton Road, Edwalton, Nottinghamshire NG12 4DB.

Loughborough building plot: £65k

Construction, football, girls and turning to youth to fill the skills shortage THE GOVERNMENT has asked the construction industry to probe and remove potential barriers preventing young people from taking up careers in construction and come up with a solution to tackle the skills shortage that threatens to cripple the industry. If the government was a football club, this latest move would be the equivalent of a team short on players; experienced first team players edging past their peak, turning to the youth academy in the hope the youngsters will take their chance and fill the gaps left by the lack of senior pros. Or perhaps it would be more apt to compare them to the FA attempting to solve the issue of the lack of young English talent coming through the club ranks and progressing to the national team.

Offsite manufacturing

NICHOLAS Humphreys Estate Agents are offering for sale a spacious building plot with planning permission for a detached two bedroom property. The plot – at Ashleigh Drive, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3HN – has an asking price of £65,000. For more information, contact Nicholas Humphreys on 01509 260606 or email: Loughborough@ nicholashumphreys.com

Finedon development site HARWOODS Estate Agents are inviting offers over £200,000 for a development opportunity at Ivy Lane, Finedon, Northamptonshire. Outline Planning Permission (ref: WP/14/00662/OUT) has been obtained to construct a terrace of 3 residential dwellings. The building plot was previously occupied by two blocks of lock-up garages which have now been demolished, leaving a cleared site. For more information, contact Harwoods on 01933 278591 or email: res@harwoodsproperty.co.uk

The 2008 housing crash hit the housing industry hard and led to the loss of 250,000 jobs within the construction sector. In their efforts to fill the skills gap, the Housing Minister Brandon Lewis and the Skills Minister Nick Boles have tasked the industry with investigating if existing business models are preventing the industry from developing the skills it badly needs and also looking into increasing alternative methods of construction, such as offsite manufacturing. The government will be looking for their own Class of ’92 or Barcelona’s famous La Masia production line to build the huge number of houses needed to fulfil its target of creating one million new homes by 2020. Unlike the FA, they are unlikely to be able to blame expensive foreign imports blocking the path or young workers and succumbing to the glamorous lifestyle of a construction worker. The possibility of being led astray by a member of the latest band to hit the headlines? Highly doubtful but the ever-increasing high wages of construction workers, particularly those who ply their trade in London, make the prospect of a career in construction rewarding nonetheless.

Attractive wages A recent report from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) revealed construction wages rose by six per cent in 2015 primarily due to the skills shortage. Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, commented: “Industry wages are

becoming increasingly attractive, and I would hope that over time this will encourage skilled workers to return to the sector, as well as drawing school leavers and graduates towards construction industry careers.” The promise of earning well will no doubt encourage some but planting the seed of interest in the industry early in a young person’s is surely the way forward. So what do the young people we’re talking about think the answer is? UK Construction Online spoke to 16 year Charlie Cooper, currently undertaking a Level One Construction Course at Blackbird Leys College, and asked him what he thought would help encourage more young people into careers in construction. He said: “Schools really need to engage more with younger people to get them interested in the construction industry. Providing more practical experience, even through simple but effective building exercises, can have a big impact on young people.” The construction industry’s need to interact with younger people is obviously key but how they go about it is equally as important.

Lack of females There is also another virtually untapped resource that the government should examine and that’s the under representation of women within the industry. The lack of females within the industry is in itself enough of a reason to put women off a career in construction. The England women’s team certainly caught the nation’s attention with their fine performances at the World Cup in Canada last summer. By reaching the semi finals of the competition, the Lionesses broke down barriers and showed the nation they could give men’s team more than run for their money. However, perhaps the football analogy stretches further and the notion of the ‘Lad Culture’ associated with football that can put off young girls from attending matches or playing the game also exists within the construction industry. The image of chauvinistic construction workers standing on scaffolding wolf whistling at attractive girls as they pass by is so ingrained in the minds of many, it’s going to take a huge amount of effort to break. Maybe it even goes deeper than that. Many a parent with a young daughter who has an interest in building are disappointed with toy tool kits, workbenches, etc being

marketed and situated in toy stores as ‘boys toys’. Speaking to UK Construction Online, Jennifer MacDonald, BIM Researcher, Consultant and Lecturer in Construction Project Management at the University of Technology in Sydney, thinks that more should be done to encourage girls at a younger age. She said: “Parents are obviously a huge influence with the way we bring our children up; encouraging girls to think that they can do everything and that it’s not just a boy’s job. “We are facing a massive skill shortage generally in the industry, so tapping into 50% of the population would be a big help towards solving it.”

Unintentionally biased Jennifer also says that education needs to be more “gender inclusive”. She commented: “You may find a number of middle age male lecturers don’t realise that they are unintentionally being biased because we all see things through our own experience. It’s also likely that if you make courses more gender inclusive you make them more inclusive for everybody.” Cristiano Ronaldo tells a story of how Manchester United’s Paul Scholes could pick out a tree 50m away and hit it with ball with just the one attempt. The government will be looking for that kind of accuracy in identifying the best way to get young people interested in a career in construction.

As it stands, it is open for debate which has more chance of happening by 2020: the government meeting its target for building new housing, along with its other huge infrastructure projects, or England winning a World Cup or European Championship. Achieving the double here would be some feat.

I’d probably be more of a go getter if I knew what I was going to get.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

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PLAYER OF THE YEAR Solutions for Districts What We Offer

IF YOU can find the names of the last 12 Leicester City Players of the Year in the Wordsearch grid on the right, you could win yourself a £20 Meal Voucher to spend at Frankie & Benny’s New York Italian Restaurant. All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - the names of the last 12 LCFC Players of the Year. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: TOP FOX, Leicestershire Builder, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by SATURDAY 19TH MARCH 2016. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The senders of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the Frankie & Benny’s Voucher. Good luck! Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner was: DAVID RUSHIN of Acres Road, Leicester Congratulations! Your Frankie & Benny’s Voucher will be with you soon.

N H S O E S W D U H E D I Z H R Q Y L H V O I T W T N B D A N N Y T I A T T O F H G S V E H E T L A L W U C E S X G Q V Z M R S M V X K N U E R H A S N F H A W K H P R N I E I Y S R A M C T E F H N I V A B U I O D H M Q R D B A E L F V G B N U S S P R J O O D F B C D B L U X D T G C Y P E G R D S W Y O N F A E N X H K L T G F E G I T U K A S A K N W H A K Q D J S Y A R E L N G V R B A C E E B E M R E A N B A S R S N Y U D W A I H M J J L E H W R G T C K M O E J D M H S X A N D J J M M U B M H P C T O C B C Z O C M Q N A V I I V Z V M I U N J I I G D K C J N E M U H N I A I E P L F A R H O H X K I P J I U T M M F F I F D S T J Z O P Q C P K G H B D Z P Z F C P S L Q B B X G E M M C D K V I Z N Q Q H O G S L B G N I I S F T D F W J U B L S E S O I S W R E T A W K N I R D Y N N A D L V V Z A Here are the 12 City Players of the Year you have to find: DANNYDRINKWATER DANNYTIATTO LES FERDINAND • DANNY TIATTO • JOEY GUDJONSSON ESTEBANCAMBIASSO IAIN HUME • RICHARD STEARMAN • STEVE HOWARD IAINHUME JACKHOBBS JACK HOBBS • RICHIE WELLENS • KASPER SCHMEICHEL JOEYGUDJONSSON KASPERSCHMEICHEL WES MORGAN • DANNY DRINKWATER • ESTEBAN CAMBIASSO LESFERDINAND RICHARDSTEARMAN Name: .............................................................................................................. RICHIEWELLENS STEVEHOWARD WESMORGAN

Address: .............................................................................................................

Created by Puzzlemaker at Disc .............................................................................Postcode: .............................

CLA Urges Ministers to Take Urgent Action on Rural Planning Barriers MINISTERS can implement a number of immediate planning changes that would boost opportunities for growth and investment in rural areas, says the CLA. The organisation, which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses, has made its comments in response to the ‘Rural planning review: Call for Evidence’, jointly published today by the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. CLA President Ross Murray said: “We applaud the Ministers’ initiative in seeking ideas on how to improve growth and productivity in rural areas by removing barriers in the planning system. We have a number of specific examples that we will be pressing them to take action on as a matter of urgency. “The introduction of permitted development rights to convert agricultural buildings has been a successful initiative with over 2,200 additional rural homes granted approval in just under two years. It is a sensible way to get the homes we need and bring buildings back into use. The rural economy would be boosted by similar rights allowing small-scale agricultural buildings, on-farm reservoirs and polytunnels. “We support all efforts to encourage organic growth of our villages and we will set out how we think the Government can build on the National Planning Policy Framework to ensure we are creating the opportunity for new jobs and homes in rural areas.” The deadline for submissions to this call for evidence is 21 April 2016. The CLA set out the importance of planning reform to delivering growth in Standing Up for Rural Businesses launched in January 2016 (www.cla.org.uk/node/7738)

Building plot for substantial house Building plot adjoining in Sinope

The Woodlands, Ashby Road, Sinope

FISHER GERMAN areLeicestershire offering a development opportunity with full planning permission for a single detached dwelling.

The plot – adjoining The Woodlands, Ashby Road, Sinope, Near Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 3AY – benefits from excellent road access directly off the A511 (Ashby Road) to the north of Ravenstone. Full planning permission was granted by North West A development full planning Leicestershire District Council onplot 12thwith November 2014 permission a singletwo-storey detacheddwelling dwelling (ref: 14/01037/FUL) for a for detached of approximately 4,500 sq.feet (GIA) with a garage. The Guide Price is £220,000. For more information, contact Fisher German on 01530 412821 or visit www. fishergerman.co.uk

The hardest part of any relationship is when it’s not your turn to talk.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Building Information Modelling

Open BIM v Closed BIM

THE CONSTRUCTION design industry is in the midst of a transition, moving from traditional 2D design methods to a more virtual 3D design solution which as we all know by now is known as BIM (building information modelling). Due to pressure from customers, from the public, and increasingly, private sector BIM is gaining traction in the AEC industry as the preferred preconstruction planning, construction management and post-construction facilities management tool. Whilst many firms have already started the transition to this ‘intelligent’ model-based process, the ‘real’ potential of BIM can only be achieved by open exchange of design and non-design project information amongst the key project stakeholders: architects, structural engineers, MEP design consultants, MEP engineers, and other trade subcontractors. Without a shared or collaborative approach, the continuation of design silo’s with 3D tools will only exacerbate the design problem of timescale and costs. One of the common challenges faced by owners and project managers of mid-sized to large projects is that not all project participants use the same BIM application. This is where the concept of closed BIM and open BIM comes into play. The above two approaches are fundamentally different ways of looking at 3D BIM modelling.

What is Closed BIM? Closed BIM, sometimes known as ‘lonely BIM’, is a BIM environment where the same software (and sometimes also the same version of that software) of a BIM application is used by all key project stakeholders. This approach may include different trades using the BIM compatible applications from the same vendor i.e. Autodesk. As an example, the lead architect may use Revit Architecture to model architectural elements, the structural engineer may use Revit Structure to take the architectural BIM model as the reference and define the building’s structure whilst the MEP design consultant would use Revit MEP to model the building services element. Although no file conversion is required in the closed BIM method and approach, the process is restrictive in the sense that it only allows project participants well-versed with certain BIM tools to collaborate, thereby not allowing ‘true’ or ‘open’ integration. This is not to say that this approach is not preferred as in many cases it will be in order to reduce the problems of inter-operability that are posed by different software solutions on the same project.

And Open BIM is ... ON THE other hand, open BIM is based on a method and workflow where all participants can collaborate and exchange project information with each other using nonproprietary, neutral file formats irrespective of the BIM tools and applications that they use. The information exchanged is not only limited to the BIM model’s geometric data but also includes other parametric data, such as specifications, quantity take-offs, material procurement, cost estimation, and construction phasing – just as it would do in a closed BIM environment. Open BIM has led to a number of protocols and open standards being developed to serve the industry. The most common open BIM protocols currently in use include Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie). IFC data allows exchange of both geometric and non-design data amongst different applications that support open BIM, COBie only allows facilities management data to be exchanged. Using IFC, the architectural BIM model created by the lead architect’s design team could be in Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD tool, while it could be opened and manipulated by the structural engineer when his/her team works in Tekla Structures. The integrated architectural and structural BIM model could then be imported into the Revit MEP platform by the lead MEP consultant. Once the detailed MEP design is complete, a federated model can be taken into a clash detection and 3D BIM coordination tool, such as Solibri or Navisworks again using the IFC format. Open BIM leads to a workflowlevel collaboration amongst key project members that is not restrictive although one can argue that the inter-operability issues that are thrown up can sometime be challenging, especially where elements of models do not appear or appear incorrectly, defeating the object of the exercise of course. At XS CAD, we have extensive experience of both Open BIM and Closed BIM methodologies, having provided 3D BIM modelling and 3D BIM coordination support to architects, MEP engineers, and contractors in the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Demand ‘Through The Roof ’ For Rental Properties In Notts THE UK’S property market is set to experience a considerable shakeup with drastic changes in the buy-to-let market coming into force later this year – Sheryl Grundy, head of lettings at FHP Living, gives her view on the lettings market in Nottingham ahead of the stamp duty overhaul. Chancellor, George Osborne, announced in the Autumn Statement that, from 1 April 2016, stamp duty land tax on buy-to-let properties will have an additional 3% charge. Ahead of this change, the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has warned that landlords are storming the UK housing market in an attempt to beat the new legislation coming into force. “In Nottingham, we’ve seen a huge surge in landlords buying up the city’s properties – the New Year has been extremely busy for our sales team in the city,” said Sheryl – who has nine years’ worth of experience in the property industry. “Investment properties are being snapped up extremely quickly, the spike in demand being driven by landlords attempting to beat the imminent stamp duty changes. “This demand is not being supported by available stock and 65% of agents, according to ARLA, claim that landlords will be pushed out of the market, decreasing the supply of rented accommodation available. “I predict that there will be an increase in rental stock after April due to new purchases completing. The clock is ticking, so I would encourage those looking to invest to do so now and make the most of the favourable stamp duty rate. Sellers can also benefit from the stamp duty change; putting a property on the market at a time where stock is particularly low will result in getting a better price for your home – demand outstripping supply has meant that house prices are particularly strong,” commented Sheryl. Property prices across the UK have been predicted to rise by 4.5% per year for the next five years according to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) – suggesting that property remains a strong investment. “Being based in the city centre, I’ve noticed that properties up to £200,000 are being snapped up by landlords particularly quickly. This lower end of the market is particularly attractive to investors as the mortgage changes being rolled out over the next few years will reduce the interest tax relief to the basic rate for investors – another change announced in the Autumn Statement. “It was not until the New Year that we began to see any dramatic changes in the market. In my experience over the years, one and two bedroom rented properties still remain extremely popular – with tenants prioritising location over space, preferring to be close to the city centre. “Furnished properties are still very much in demand with 87% of FHP Living’s properties rented during 2015 being furnished. Properties which are finished to a high standard, with high quality interiors, have become the norm and tenants are beginning to expect this - often willing to pay more for a high specification,” added Sheryl.

Site for 8 dwellings in Whitwick HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a 1.23 acre parcel of land with Outline Planning Permission for 8 dwellings.

The site - at Talbot Street, Whitwick, Leics. - has an elevated position with extensive views. The asking price is £300,000. For more information, contact Mike Fallowell at the Ashby de la Zouch office of Howkins & Harrison on 01530 877977.

When they start getting the 5-day forecast right then maybe I’ll listen to their climate change theories.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

I use artificial sweetener at work. I add it to everything I say to my boss.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Worst winter since 2013

Changes at recycling sites From April 2016

Leicestershire.gov.uk/ waste-and-recycling

Revised opening days and times April-September, 9am-7pm | October-March, 9am-4pm Recycling and household waste sites

Barwell Bottesford Coalville Kibworth Loughborough Lount Lutterworth Market Harborough Melton Mountsorrel Oadby Shepshed Somerby Whetstone

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KEY:

Cement-bonded asbestos

Paint

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Site open

✗ Site closed

Chargeable items Waste must be separated and will be charged by type.

Including concrete, rubble, glass windows, all ceramics, bathroom furniture and tiles.

Including plasterboard sheets (1.8 x 0.9m), plaster and coving.

Double wrap sheets in clear plastic sheeting. Permits* are required in advance.

£3

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

£3

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

£10

each or 20 litres (or part 20 litres)

Payment to be made on site by credit or debit card only (no cash)

✓ ✗

Permits* for paint° are required in advance °Paint can only be disposed of at Whetstone *Permits are free of charge. Call our customer service centre 0116 305 0001 or visit Leicestershire.gov.uk/waste-permits

Starts fall 20% in the three months to January • • •

Heavy rainfall and waterlogged sites preventing project starts Wet weather exacerbates a slowdown already affecting the industry Construction flounders UK-wide, but Northern England and Midlands ahead over last 12 months

THE CONSTRUCTION sector is suffering from its worst winter since 2013, according to the latest figures released in February from construction experts Glenigan. The value of new work starting on siteWW fell by a marked 20% in the three month period to the end of January, compared to the same period of 2014/15. Office construction was the only sector of the industry to edge higher, with starts declining across residential, non-residential and civil engineering work. Glenigan’s monthly barometer of project starts has been in negative territory for eight out of the last ten months. However the latest figures give the strongest evidence yet that construction’s prospects have weakened markedly since this stage a year ago. Glenigan IndexCommenting on this month’s figures, Allan Wilén, Glenigan’s Economics Director, said: “The atrocious weather has clearly halted project starts.” “This has exacerbated an already evident softening in workloads, with new construction activity now in the worst period of decline since crashing in 2009.” He added: “The official output figures show R&M spending by both government and private institutions was already slowing in the second half of last year.” Mr Wilén concluded: “Glenigan’s data on project starts suggests that new build activity will also be constrained in the coming months.” The dire weather impacted construction sites across the UK; only Wales saw starts hold above the level of a year earlier. Over the 12 month period to the end of January work is down across the UK as a whole, but the Midlands and Northern English regions are outperforming. Yorkshire and the Humber, the North East and West and the East and West Midlands are all in the black. By contrast starts have contracted in the Capital and most of Southern England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland’s construction industries have all sunk lower over the last 12 months.

Land for 13 properties in Markfield: £850k guide ASTON & CO Estate Agents are offering for sale a prime development opportunity situated on Shaw Lane, Markfield, Leicestershire. The 0.91 acre site has Outline Planning Permission (ref: 14/01241/OUT) for 13 properties consisting of 6 fourbed detached, 3 three-bed detached and 4 social housing (2 two-bed and 2 one-bed). The Guide Price is £850,000. For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Aston & Co. on 0116 260 7788 or email: syston@astonandco.co.uk

I need to start paying closer attention to stuff. Found out today my wife and I have separate names for the cat.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MARCH 2016 • Tel: 01530 244069

Westleigh to build 30 new affordable homes in Earl Shilton EARL SHILTON is set to gain 30 new affordable homes thanks to a partnership between house builder Westleigh, Riverside Housing Association and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council. The £3.3m scheme will see the site of a former Hosiery Factory on Rossendale Road transformed into a range of high quality new homes including eight one-bedroom apartments, 16 two-bedroom houses and six three-bedroom houses. Once constructed the properties will be owned by Riverside and will be let for affordable rent. Westleigh began construction L-R Lisa Allen, Project Supervisor (Riverside), Dan Gooch, Partnership work on-site in November 2015 and is and Investments Manager (Westleigh), John True, Development expected to complete work by end of Manager (Riverside) Cilla Aram, Operations Manager (Riverside) summer 2016. The development, located a short walk away from the town centre, is aimed at first-time buyers, young professionals, families and individuals who need their first step onto the property ladder to be a smaller, more manageable one. Funding for the development was provided by Homes and Communities Agency and Riverside Housing. Gary Turner, Head of Investment and Partnership at Westleigh, commented, “The development will provide a diverse range of homes to meet the rise in demand for affordable housing in Leicestershire and we are proud to be working with Riverside Housing Association and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council to bring these new homes to fruition.” Riverside assistant director Anna-Maria Edwards said, “We are thrilled to be a part of building better places in Earl Shilton. This is just part of the great work we do in Leicestershire communities to help achieve the wider Riverside aim to transform lives and revitalise neighbourhoods.”

Redevelopment site on Evington Lane in Leicester

READINGS Estate Agents are offering for sale a substantial plot of 0.5 acres with Outline Planning Permission (ref: 20151836) for the erection of a single detached dwelling within the grounds. The main property on the site - at 193 Evington Lane, Leicester LE5 6DJ - is in need of general updating and modernisation. However, there may be potential for the demolition of the house and erection of a block of flats, subject to obtaining planning consent. (A positive planner’s opinion has been obtained by the selling agents.) The Price Guide is £650,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Readings on 0116 222 7575 or email: sales@ readingspropertygroup.com

People who write “u” instead of “you”. What do you do with all the time you save?

6R NEW 1

OUT 1ST MARCH

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Vivaro Sportive * from £165/mth

? p U k c i P r O n a V w e N N OW A d e e N OUR 16 PLATE Y E u V R o E S Y E R . o E D TION QUOT EE NO OBLIGA TOO

L200 Barbarian * from £197/mth

Initial Rental £9

184

Initial Rental £1

Y FOR A FR CALL US TODA

We’ll beat any quote

£50 Voucher

from any competitor or send you a £50 voucher Terms & Conditions Apply

WE DO CARS

1. QUOTE MUST BE FOR A VEHICLE AND BE A GENUINE AND WRITTEN LIKE FOR LIKE COMPARISON IN YOUR NAME IE: SAME VEHICLE MODEL, LEASING TERM, SPECIFICATION, MILEAGE, DEPOSIT, VEHICLE AGE & ACCESSORY OPTIONS 2. PROOF OF IDENTITY IS REQUIRED BEFORE VOUCHERS ARE DISPATCHED 3. ONLY 1 VALID CLAIM PER CUSTOMER.

LEICESTER NORTH

GIVE US A CALL ON:

0116 216 3028 www.vanaramaleicesternorth.co.uk andy.reynolds@vanarama.co.uk

Deals shown are based on Finance Lease and subject to VAT and a £125+VAT arrangement fee. Business customers only (Personal Finance options available). Term 60 months and 8k miles per annum. Final rental (balloon) £5490.50 on the Vivaro and £9612.00 on the Barbarian. Photos are for illustration purposes only. Other lease options available, see website for details. Van Leasing Leicester Ltd trading as Vanarama Leicester North is an Appointed Representative of Autorama UK Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our FCA Register number is 482841. As a FCA regulated credit broker we can introduce you to a select group of lenders, details of these lenders are available on request. All products are subject to credit acceptance and a £125+vat Arrangement Fee. Our VAT number is 842814720. Please note calls may be monitored or recorded. Vanarama A5 Advert_NewREG_Deals_Cars.2016.indd 1

19/01/2016 10:54