Leicestershire Builder March 2023

BUILDERS

Former Kegworth Methodist Church for sale by auction

MARCH 2023

SUCCESS FOR LOCAL ARCHITECTS

HSSP ARCHITECTS, based in Melton Mowbray, are celebrating after one of their Associates and Chartered Architects, Samantha Griffiths, has been announced the winner of ‘Construction Specialist of the Year’ at the prestigious LABC Building Excellence Awards Grand Finals in London.

SDL AUCTIONS are offering for sale BY AUCTION the former Kegworth Methodist Church at High Street, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DA.

The 3,900 sq.ft. property comprises the chapel, former school rooms, first floor hall and ancillary space. The present chapel is believed to have been constructed in 1875, replacing an earlier chapel of 1809.

For sale by auction on Thursday 30th March (10 am start).

Guide Price: £130,000+ plus fees. Contact SDL auctions on 0800 046 5454 or visit the website at www. sdlauctions.co.uk

Samantha won the regional stage of the awards in 2022 which qualified her place in the national finals. The LABC Awards celebrates the very best in innovative high-quality projects and exemplary people in the construction sector. Helping to raise standards across the industry and highlighting the fundamental contributions local authority building control teams make as part of the project team. Hosted by the brilliant Stephen K Amos, over 850 construction industry contemporaries attended the black-tie awards ceremony at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel.

Focusing on professional skills and competence, Samantha’s tenacity and passion to overcome obstacles and achieve results was applauded as she was presented with her award.

James Botterill, Director of HSSP Architects said: “We’re delighted that Samantha’s achievements and client focus have been recognised by industry experts.

“Her investment into helping and supporting the next generation of architects and by sharing her story with them encourages young people to see that life is rarely a straight path, but with passion and drive you can succeed in what you love.”

Andrew Beard, LABC East Midlands Regional Chair and Building Control Manager for Charnwood Borough Council, continued: “We extend our congratulations to Samantha and to HSSP who we have an excellent working relationship with. Samantha consults our team for building control aspects, bringing them on board at the very early stages of a project to talk it through so we can flag up any issues before they arise, which helps both us and her.”

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All your roof glazing requirements from the industry’s top manufacturers

(L-R): Sarah Chilcott (MD of Planning Portal), Samantha Griffiths (Associate of HSSP Architects), Heather Jones (President of LABC), Stephen K Amos (Host)

Leicester City

MI & SONS LIMITED (c/o Agent: Mr Rashid, 46 Heybridge Road, Leicester LE5 0AP) –Conversion of four-bed house and external garage to 2 one-bed flats and one one-bed studio flat, plus side extension to garage – at 12 Granby Avenue, Leicester, LE5 3RA.

CALIBRE PROPERTY

COMPANY (c/o Agent: B Saunders, Cedarwood Design, 7 Cedar Avenue, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 3DA) – Demolition of existing bungalow and associated garage, and construction of two residential blocks containing 9 flats in total –at 652 Saffron Lane, Leicester LE2 6TD.

MR M Y THADHA (c/o Agent: Mark Kelly, Muddy Dog Architects, 12 Oakfield Close, Great Glen, Leicester LE8 9GL) – Change of use from industrial building to 8 storage and distribution units and one retail unit on ground floor, plus 10 office units on first and second floors – at The Leeson Building, Canning Place, Leicester LE1 3ER.

VANTOM LIMITED (c/o: 116 Granby Street, Leicester LE1 1DL) - Change of use of existing first to fifth floors from storage to 5 self-contained student flats – at 116 Granby Street, Leicester LE1 1DL.

LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY

CRICKET CLUB (c/o Agent: Mr Ben Hall, IMA Architects, 6 Rose way, Blaby Business Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4BY) – Construction of 3 modular buildings to be used as WC/multi-faith facilities – at Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Curzon Road, Leicester, LE2 8EB.

MTHF PROPERTIES LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Mr Muhammad Imtiaz, Architecture365 Limited, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester LE5 1NA) – Change of use of part of ground floor to Use Class E, and installation of shopfronts – at 342 Ground Floor, St Saviours Road, Leicester LE5 4HJ.

Sharp decline in house building but business expectations rebound considerably

UK CONSTRUCTION companies reported another downturn in business activity during January, largely reflecting weaker client demand and fewer new projects starts in recent months.

In contrast, business expectations regarding the year ahead rebounded considerably since December 2022, with confidence reaching its highest level for six months. Survey respondents noted that the general economic outlook appeared to have improved, while some cited tentative signs of a turnaround in sales enquiries.

At 48.4 in January, down from 48.8 in December, the headline seasonally adjusted S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index® (PMI®) –which measures month-on-month changes in total industry activity – posted below the neutral 50.0 threshold for the second month running. The latest reading signalled a modest reduction in overall business activity and the rate of decline was the fastest since May 2020.

House building (index at 44.8) was the weakest-performing category of construction output in January, with the rate of contraction the steepest since May 2020. Lower volumes of residential work were attributed to rising borrowing costs, unfavourable market conditions and greater caution among clients.

Commercial activity (48.2) decreased for the first time in five months during January, reflecting softer demand and delayeddecision making on new projects. Meanwhile, civil engineering activity (49.7) was close to stabilisation, with the latest reading the highest seen since June 2022.

Total new work decreased for the third time in the past four months, albeit at only a modest pace. Survey respondents cited particularly weak demand in the house building sector.

Mirroring the trend for business activity, latest data indicated that employment numbers decreased

for the second consecutive month in January. The rate of job shedding was the fastest for two years, with construction companies often commenting on hiring freezes and the non-replacement of voluntary leavers due to softer demand.

January data pointed to the sharpest fall in purchasing activity since May 2020. Lower demand for construction products and materials helped to alleviate pressures on supply chains at the start of 2023. This resulted in the least marked downturn in vendor performance for three months.

Cutbacks to input buying and improved materials availability contributed to a slowdown in overall input cost inflation during January. The latest survey pointed to the second slowest rise in purchase prices since December 2020. Where higher cost burdens were reported, this was mainly linked to increased energy prices.

Looking ahead, around 43% of the survey panel anticipate a rise in business activity over the year ahead, while only 17% forecast a decline. The resulting index signalled a sharp rebound in business expectations from the 31-month low seen in December 2022. Construction companies often commented on improved sales pipelines and hopes of a turnaround in new orders. Some firms cited optimism that confidence would eventually return to the housing market over the course of 2023, assisted by a stabilisation in borrowing costs.

COMMENT

Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, which compiles the survey said: “A sharp and accelerated decline in house building activity led to the weakest UK construction sector performance for just over two-and-a-half years in January. Construction companies once again cited a headwind from lacklustre market conditions, rising interest rates and fewer new project starts in the residential segment. Commercial building also slipped into contraction as the subdued UK economy weighed on business investment.

“However, there were positive signals for longer-term prospects across the construction sector, with business activity expectations staging a swift rebound from the low point seen last December. For some firms, the recovery in business optimism to its highest for six months was driven by signs of a turnaround in new sales enquires at the start of 2023. Other construction companies simply noted gradual improvements in the general economic outlook and hoped that confidence would return at a later stage this year to alleviate the current lack of momentum in the house building sector.”

Dr John Glen, Chief Economist at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, said: “The wrecking ball of higher inflation and interest rates has knocked the UK’s residential building output to its weakest since May 2020 as stretched mortgage affordability impacted on the building of new homes. The other sectors also saw stagnation, so, it’s a construction conundrum, that builder optimism has risen to the highest for six months with the sector facing the second consecutive month of order books looking increasingly empty.

“This hopeful aspect could potentially be attributed to more enquiries filtering through to building companies which could develop into concrete orders in the coming months alongside the economy showing small, incremental improvements. Delivery times and material availability also improved which was a boost for firms working on ongoing projects.

“The continuing price pressures for energy and wages still remain a concern, along with the highest level of job shedding for two years and building skills remaining in short supply. Evidently, there are still roadblocks ahead, but we should have faith that the sector can see a path through for better outcomes in 2023 after languishing in contraction in the last few months.” www.spglobal.com

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I just realized why I don’t look good in pictures anymore. It’s my face.

MR DARREN SIMONS (c/o Agent: Daniel Bedward, Dans Architectural Services, 2 Meriac Close, Nottingham NG5 9HS) – Creation of one detached dwelling to form 2 flats – at 3 Frolesworth Way, Leicester LE3 6LQ.

MR WAYNE THORNTON

(c/o Agent: John Hackman, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester, LE18 2GE) – Conversion from a house in multiple occupancy into 6 self-contained flats, with 6 new roof windows and reinstatement of existing basement window – at 10 Talbot Lane, Leicester, LE1 4LR.

MR S HOLTHI (c/o Agent: John Hackman, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester, LE18 2GE) –Subdivision of existing terraced property to create 2 self-contained flats (Revised Scheme) – at 142 Duncan Road, Leicester, LE2 8ED.

MR G MAWJI (c/o Agent: Mr M Imtiaz, Architecture365 Limited, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester LE5 1NA) – Construction of detached single storey building to form house in multiple occupation at rear – at 71-73 Rowsley Street, Leicester LE5 5JP.

SHIPLEY ESTATES LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Andrew Woods, Woods Whur 2014 Limited, St James House, 28 Park Place, Leeds LS1 2SP) – Change of use of ground floor from shop/retail use to Adult Ganing Centre – at 35-37 Narborough Road, Leicester LE3 0LE.

MS DEBORAH HUNT (c/o Agent: Mr Anthony Jones, Halford Jones Architecture Limited, 34a Park Hill Drive, Aylestone, Leicester, LE2 8HR) – Existing ground floor office to be changed into 2 self-contained flats and existing first and second floor five-bed flat is to be converted into 2 self-contained flats – at 546 Aylestone Road, Leicester LE2 8JB.

LEICESTER CITY COUNCIL

(c/o Agent: Mr Ketan Bhavsar, A+G Architects Limited, 11 Leicester Road, Loughborough, Leiccs. LE11 2AE) – Proposed demolition of buildings – at 1B Blackmore Drive, Western Park, Leicester LE3 1LQ.

New images show how Leicester railway station will look after radical overhaul

THESE NEW images showing how Leicester’s railway station will look following a proposed multi-millionpound transformation have been shared by the city council.

Leicester City Council is planning to restore the historic station building back to its Victorian glory, relocating its main entrance so that it opens onto Station Street and directly faces the city centre.

The city council has already successfully secured £17.6million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund to help realise the ambitious plans to revitalise the landmark building and create a more attractive and accessible gateway into the city.

Now, the city council, Network Rail and East Midlands Railway (EMR) are working in partnership to bring forward the ambitious proposals, with the support of key industry stakeholders.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Leicester’s railway station is a beautiful building but is in need of a radical overhaul to help it meet the needs of a modern city the size of Leicester.

“We have been working closely with rail industry partners to develop ambitious plans to revamp and revitalise the station. It is a major project that will make a huge difference to the city. It will help transform the area into a vibrant gateway and make a vital contribution to Leicester’s future growth and prosperity.

“We also have the chance to restore this historic, landmark building back to its Victorian glory.

“The award of over £17million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of this project. Since then, we have been carrying out detailed design work and we’re very excited to share new images that show how the station will look following its ambitious redevelopment.”

Under the plans, the area outside the entrance will be remodelled with a ramp and steps leading up to the main entrance to the main concourse and ticket hall. The ticket hall itself will be re-configured and opened up to provide more space for passengers. New skylights will be installed in place of the existing suspended ceiling to further enhance the sense of space and let more natural light into this part of the building. A new secure cycle store will be created close to the new entrance.

Station Street will be closed to traffic and replaced with an attractive new pedestrianised open space, with trees and landscaping, that

will link directly to the Granby Street super crossing and into the city centre. Taxis will be relocated from inside the existing covered main entrance hall – or porte-cochere – to a new purpose-built looped taxi rank area off Fox Street, immediately adjacent to the new entrance. This will free up the glass-roofed porte-cochere to be revamped as an attractive new plaza for cafes, bars or retail. The original Station Street façade of the Grade II-listed station building will also be revealed and carefully restored.

The proposed transformation will require the demolition of the Parcel Yard pub building and the next-door taxi office. The owners have been informed of the plans and negotiations are ongoing. Planning and listed building consent will also be required before work can start on site. If given the go-ahead, work is expected to start on-site later this year.

Before then, people will be invited to have their say on the proposals when an online consultation and digital walkthrough of the plans launches next month. Full details will be publicised nearer the time.

MR & MRS PARMAR (c/o Agent: Mrs Barbosa, Structskill Services Limited, 20 Stockton Road, Leicester LE4 9DS) – Change of use from offices to house in multiple occupation – at 3 De Montfort Street, Leicester LE1 7GE.

OXFORD BUSINESS COLLEGE

(c/o Agent: Lance Wiggins, Lion Planning, 14 Woodhouse Road, Quorn, Loughborough, Leics. LE12 8ED) – Change of use of ground, first, fourth and fifth floors from office use to a mixed use comprising educational use and office use – at 86 Enkalon House, Regent Road, Leicester LE1 7DD.

ECOTERM SOLUTIONS

LIMITED (c/o Agent: Mr A Lennard, Perfect Planning Architectural Services Limited, Office 1F, Rugby House, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4FU) –Alterations to form 2 studio flats within existing dwelling – at 42 Mountcastle Road, Leicester LE3 2BW.

MR P LAD (c/o Agent: Mr Kurosh Morad, KMC Consultancy, 60 St Annes Drive, Leicester LE2 8HT) –Change of use of existing dwelling to 2 self-contained flats – at 106 Grasmere Street, Leicester LE2 7FS.

IMZ INVESTMENTS LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Mr Keshiv Sudera, Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) –Proposed double storey side and rear extensions and single storey extension to the commercial unit – at 4 Robinson Road, Leicester, LE5 4NS.

URBANITE (LEICESTER)

LIMITED (c/o Agent: Miss Emma Bilton, Quod, Capitol House, Bond Court, Leeds, LS1 5SP) – Change of use from retail to 13 studio student flats and installation of a dormer – at 176-178 Highcross Street, Leicester, LE1 4PL.

BUX INVESTMENTS LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Mr Muhammad Imtiaz, Architecture365 Limited, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester, LE5 1NA) – Change of use from retail to function hall – at Unit 1A, Ground Floor, Faraday Works, Temple Road, Leicester LE5 4JE.

£4 million confirmed for exciting projects to make Charnwood’s future brighter

TEN PROJECTS WHICH will help make the future brighter for Charnwood residents have secured around £4 million of Government funding.

Charnwood Borough Council has worked with communities to draw up the Future Charnwood Investment Plan to secure funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The plan will see improvements to parks and sports facilities, support for town centres, a village hall expanded and the backing of a project to improve the well-being, life chances and employability skills of young people.

Summary of the projects

The Future Charnwood Investment Plan includes 10 projects: IMPROVEMENTS TO ANSTEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES

Anstey Parish Council wants to extend the Jubilee Hall in the village to increase its usage by community groups.

NEW MULTI-USE GAMES AREA IN BIRSTALL

Birstall Parish Council wants to install a multi-use games area on the School Lane playing fields to enhance the area for all age groups and abilities.

SILEBY MEMORIAL PARK AND PAVILION

Sileby Parish Council is intending to regenerate Sileby Memorial Park and Pavilion to improve the community green space at the heart of the village.

EXPANDING MOUNTSORREL SPORTS FACILITIES

Mountsorrel Parish Council wants to create new cricket and football pitches in Halstead Road to support the local sporting scene and ease the pressure on the existing pitches there and at the War Memorial Fields. The Council also wants to build a new pavilion at Halstead Road.

LIVING WALL & CHARNWOOD GROWERS FAIR PROJECT

Love Loughborough has proposed an exciting project to transform an ugly concrete façade in Loughborough town centre into a beautiful living feature. The façade above a row of shops in Devonshire Square would be covered in a

Living Wall which would see panels of plants added to the building to grow and bring nature into the town centre. Also, a weekly Charnwood Growers Fair would be held in the summer to bring more visitors to the town centre.

REGENERATING SHEPSHED’S MARKET PLACE

Charnwood Borough Council is planning to transform Market Place in Shepshed by creating an open and more pedestrian-friendly space while retaining parking for shoppers.

RE-IMAGINING LOUGHBOROUGH’S ICONIC CARILLON TOWER AND WAR MEMORIAL MUSEUM

The floors of the tower will be transformed with purpose-built units and flexible display cases for the museum’s displays. The project will also seek to inspire the next generation of Carillonneurs with the purchase of a practice clavier, the device used to play the bells in the tower. There will also be a learning programme developed for school and group visits, a campaign to increase volunteers at the museum and a project to better understand the museum’s audience. The project is being led by Charnwood Borough Council.

GORSE COVERT YOUTH PROJECT, LOUGHBOROUGH

This project proposed by Gorse Covert Community Association proposes a three-year programme of youth support, including the appointment of a dedicated youth support worker. The programme would facilitate drop-in sessions, workshops and activities as well as develop opportunities to improve young people’s, confidence, and capabilities.

GENERATION CHARNWOOD

Youth Sport Trust, in partnership with Active Together, has proposed the Generation Charnwood project. It aims to improve the well-being, life chances and employability skills of young people – especially those from disadvantaged backgroundsin the borough through sport.

NANPANTAN SCOUT HUT

Nanpantan Scout Group are planning to build a new scout hut which will secure its future as a thriving group for young people. The new hut would also be available for use by the local community.

Reserved matters submitted for Mountpark Bardon III

MOUNTPARK LOGISTICS has submitted a reserved matters planning application to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council for a 947,650 sq ft industrial and logistics development at Stanton Lane, Coalville.

Known as Mountpark Bardon III, the proposed scheme comprises two high quality buildings of 535,955 sq ft and 411,695 sq ft, both of which have been designed to achieve EPC ‘A’ ratings and minimum BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditations. As part of its plans, Mountpark has designated 50% of the site as green space to support biodiversity and provide a landscaped woodland park for both employees and local residents to enjoy.

The new scheme is the third and final phase of Mountpark Bardon, which is strategically located near Junction 22 of the M1, north of Leicester and within a 4.5 hour HGV drive time of around 85% of the UK population.

RNYS PROPERTIES LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Mr Muhammad Imtiaz, Architecture365 Limited, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester, LE5 1NA) – Change of use of first floor from function hall to residential, and construction of second floor to create 9 one-bed flats and one two-bed flat – at 148 Melton Road, Leicester LE4 5EE.

BLUEBRICK ESTATES LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Mr Andrew Lennard, Perfect Planning Architectural Services Limited, Office 1F, Rugby House, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4FS) – Conversion of single dwelling to 2 flats – at 58 Fosse Road South, Leicester, LE3 0QD.

Hinckley & Bosworth

MR L MASSARELLA (c/o Agent: Mrs Ellie Jones, MPC, 58 Spon Lane, Grendon, Near Atherstone, Warks. CV9 2PD) – Erection of 9 dwellings with associated access, car parking, landscaping and drainage – at Pharmacy, Heath lane Surgery, Westfield Avenue, Earl Shilton, Leics. LE9 7RT.

JELSON LIMITED (c/o: 370 Loughborough Road, Leicester LE4 5PR) – Residential development of up to 100 dwellings with associated public open space and infrastructure –at land adjacent to Lockey Farm, Hunts Lane, Desford, Leics.

MR & MRS WYNNE (c/o Agent: Simon Cheshire Planning Limited, 34 Stanley Road, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0NB) – Conversion of agricultural buildings to residential with associated amenity space and parking – at Townsend Farm, Bosworth Road, Sutton Cheney, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0AH.

Harborough District

Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Paul Thurlby, GWH Architects, Unit 4B, Fir Tree Lane, Groby, Leicester LE6 0FH) – Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of 5 dwellings plus creation of a new access – at 26 New Road, Kibworth Beauchamp, Leics. LE8 0LE.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Site with consent for two dwellings

Final Commercial Units Sold at Glenfield Business Start-Up Development

residential

development opportunity at the rear of The Malt Shovel, 5 Church Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry CV8 3ET.

There is a resolution to grant planning permission for two detached dwellings and associated garages, subject to entering into a Section 106 Agreement. Planning application ref: R22/0586. A financial contribution of £14,725 is payable in respect of the Section 106 Agreement to mitigate for the loss of biodiversity on the site. Guide Price: £325,000 plus VAT. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Richard Tole at WTS Property Consultants on 07917 088 221 or email: richard@wtscommercial.co.uk

Site for 9 dwellings in Nether Broughton

THOMAS JAMES Land & New Homes are offering for sale a residential development site with full planning consent (ref: 21/01073/REM) for the erection of 9 dwellings.

The site – at Old Dalby Road, Nether Broughton, Leics. LE14 3EY – extends to approximately 1.43 acres.

Guide Price: £1,000,000 to £1,200,000.

Contact Thomas James for more information on 0115 856 0522 or email: land@tjea.com

THE FINAL UNIT in a development of seven commercial buildings within Glenborough Court, Glenfield, Leicester has been sold by specialist land development and property consultancy

Mather Jamie on behalf of Lagan Homes.

The units have been designed and marketed as suitable for new business start-ups in order to meet a much needed gap in the market for small, high quality owner occupier investment opportunities. Occupation of the seven units has also created several new employment opportunities in Glenfield.

The site was originally occupied by Glenborough Engineering. When this business closed, having built an adjacent business park, Cawrey Homes purchased the land and self-funded part of the build. Construction was completed in 2021 and Cawrey Homes was subsequently acquired by Lagan Homes.

The seven two storey units vary in size from 1,238 ft2 to 1,560 ft2 and the businesses occupying the units include professional advisers, electricians, distributors and a wholesales trading business, whilst one of the units is being fitted out to let as an office.

Established in 1983, Lagan Homes Group is at the forefront of highquality homebuilding, with a range of commercial schemes across the country. An award-winning developer operating in three divisions (England, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland) Lagan Homes is committed to transforming innovative, creative designs into high quality homes and through collaboration bringing the public & private sectors to drive economic growth into newly created communities.

Commenting on the deal, Adrian Regan, Land Director, from Lagan Homes said, “The units have been expertly marketed over the past year with strong demand from buyers who want to purchase property as an investment within their pension portfolio. Working together as a team we have achieved a great outcome on this exciting new development which complements other business start-up units we have available on Pear Tree Office Park in Ratby.”

Based in Loughborough, the Mather Jamie commercial property team specialises in the acquisition, sale and lettings of commercial property, including office, industrial and retail units. The team recently won a ‘most active agent’ award, was the highest-ranked agency in Leicester for disposals, and the 5th highest ranked single branch agency in the East Midlands for both acquisitions and disposals in the 2022 CoStar awards.

Commenting, Alex Reid, Head of Commercial said, “High quality units of this size and location are highly sought after and we have worked hard to create the right interest and ensure each sale has completed quickly so that our client can continue to re-invest and create other similar developments.”

Other advisers on the deal included Emma Ali from Shakepeare Martineau who provided legal advice to Lagan Homes.

Brackley Property Development Limited (c/o Agent: Mr Chris Webster, Stephen George & Partners, Waterfront House, 2A Smith Way, Grove Park, Enderby, Leicester LE19 1SX) - Outline application for mixed use development comprising B1 offices, B2 general industry, B8 storage and distribution, A3 cafes and restaurants, D1 uses including health care and a children’s nursery and D2 leisure uses with associated vehicular access, parking, landscaping and surface water balancing (access to be considered) (Variation of condition 18 (scheme of signalisation B4114/B581) of 19/00856/OUT to vary the timescales for highway improvements to allow phase 1 to be occupied prior to works being carried out – at Broughton Astley Golf Complex, Coventry Road, Broughton Astley, Leics.

KAYBEE DEVELOPMENTS

LIMITED (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB)Creation of new access and erection of 4 dwellings with associated garaging/carports (revised scheme of 20/00781/ FUL) (Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) of 21/01695/ FUL to change the ‘arched’ openings on Plot 1, necessary to accommodate the exposed rafter feet detail in construction, and to amend the garage block to provide additional storage space and alterations to fenestration (south west elevation) for Plot 2) – at Land OS 1377, Caldecott Road, Great Easton, Leics.

Rutland County

BARROWDEN PARISH

COUNCIL (c/o Agent: Ms Lucy Ward, Harris McCormack Architects, Arc Haus, Peterborough Road, Wansford PE8 6JN) – New community hub with proposed parking to include parking to the surgery site – at Barrowden Village Hall, Wakerley Road, Barrowden, Rutland LE15 8EP.

Builders’ Problems SOLVED

What is a collateral warranty and do I need to provide one?

Problem: I own a small mechanical and plumbing contracting business and a few months ago my company started work on a new build project for a main contractor.

After starting work, the main contractor asked me to sign a collateral warranty. I do not have any experience of collateral warranties and I assumed that this was something just to say that my company would guarantee its work for a certain period. However, the developer (who employs the main contractor), said to me that his company will pay £1 for consideration. I do not quite understand what is happening – can you enlighten me?

My company never received a written contract from the main contractor and also said that it would not deduct retention, but I am now getting pestered by the main contractor to sign the collateral warranty. The developer has said that the collateral warranty is a design contract between the developer and main contractor and that it is only valid if something that my company has designed in the project fails – but we have designed nothing!

Response: First and foremost, always ensure that any agreement for building works is in writing, and do not commence any works until the agreement has been signed or at least clearly agreed.

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

Gerard

Author background

Michael is a Solicitor, Chartered Builder & Registered Construction Adjudicator, and is a director at Michael Gerard Law Limited, a solicitors practice regulated by the SRA.

The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

As the name suggests therefore, the purpose of a collateral warranty is to create a direct contractual relationship that is collateral to the main contract: the £1 consideration is a nominal fee that ensures the contract is valid – in the absence of any consideration, there would be no valid contract, consideration being an essential ingredient to create a legally binding contract.

If the T&C’s of the contract you have with the main contractor (albeit a verbal contract), are silent on your company providing a collateral warranty, then you are under no obligation to provide one. From your outline above, it would appear that you are under no obligation to provide a collateral warranty and my advice would therefore be, do not provide one.

If you agree to provide one, you will incur costs for a solicitor to review the terms and conditions (it is imperative you instruct a solicitor in order to understand what you are signing up for), and you will also increase your risks as to be responsible for any defects and faults with your work – even if the main contractor ceases trading, you have a contract with the developer and [most probably] with other [unknown] companies should the collateral warranty be assigned.

The main contractor may have a term in its contract with the developer to execute collateral warranties with certain professions and / or trades, but has overlooked this obligation when engaging you – however, this is not your problem.

Further, I also note from your brief that you have no design liability – even if you were under an obligation to execute a collateral warranty, if this obligation only extended to design, then there is no requirement to execute a collateral warranty.

If the main contractor withholds payment because of your failure or refusal to provide a collateral warranty, you have the HGC&R Act 1996 to fall back, which includes right of suspension and adjudication.

© Michael Gerard 2023

The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

Michael

NW Leics. District

DENMARK WARD LIMITED

(c/o Agent: Ms Helen Prangley, Prangley Planning Limited, 25 Paddock Close, Quorn, Leics. LE12 8BJ) – Demolition of farm buildings and erection of 3 two storey dwellings and detached garage accommodation – at land rear of 31 Church Street, Belton, Loughborough, Leics. LE12 9UG.

DAVID, ANTHONY AND ANDREW FREARSON AND EAST MIDLANDS HOUSING GROUP LTD (c/o Agent: Georgina Doyle, Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derby DE74 2SL) –Demolition of existing buildings and erection of 103 dwellings, with access, foul pumping station, associated landscaping and infrastructure – at land off Standard Hill, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics. LE67 3HJ.

MR JAMES RICHARDS (c/o Agent: Ben Hall, IMA Architects, 6 Rose Way, Blaby Business Park, Lutterworth Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4BY) – Construction of storage and distribution facility to be used for B8 use class, with ancillary office accommodation and associated service yard and infrastructure approved under planning permission ref. 22/00054/FULM without complying with Condition 34 so as to provide for amended biodiversity enhancement requirements – at Former Castle Donington Power Station, Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derby.

BTA PARTNERSHIP (c/o: 47,49 & 49A Market Street, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1AG) – Change of use of the first and second floors of 47, 49 & 49A Market Street to 4 flats – at 47, 49 & 49A Market Street, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1AG.

MR MATTHEW STEVENSON (c/o Agent: Mr Chris Collins, CC Design Consultancy Limited, 14 Sunnyside, Newhall, Derby DE11 0TJ) – Erection of 3 detached dwellings with associated garaging – at 84 Ashby Road, Woodville, Swadlincote, Derby DE11 7BY.

Further information submitted to support £200m Leicestershire logistics hub planning application

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Syston development opportunity

THE DRUMMOND ESTATE, a local family trust, and partners Landchain, have submitted additional information as part of the planning process for a £200 million logistics hub close to junction 21 of the M1.

The site is allocated in Blaby District Council’s adopted Local Plan for employment use and is the only single large site capable of meeting the Council’s employment land requirements fully and responding to the pressing need for strategic logistics space.

The proposals would create approximately 2,000 new jobs and a breadth of opportunities in the employment training sectors. It would deliver 106,830 sq m of advanced warehouse and distribution space with integral offices, offering the ability to sub-divide plots to provide flexibility to satisfy a wide range of demand. Set within a new woodland belt and landscape framework, it also includes a specialised Logistics Training Centre, which would assist in plugging the growing skills-gap for high-tech logistics employees across the region.

ASTON & CO are offering for sale a residential development opportunity at 89 Barkby Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2AH.

The property comprises a four bedroom detached bungalow with a plot to the rear with outline planning for 5 dwellings.

54 – 66 Silver Street, Whitwick, Coalville, Leicestershire,

The planning application for the 30-hectare site, which lies to the east of the M1 and south west of the Enderby Park and Ride, was submitted in 2019. The new information submitted includes: Design and Access Statement – to reflect the new design and updated drainage strategy, including the removal of the proposed access road from St Johns, replacing this with an increased area of public open space within the east of the site.

Environmental Statement – which reflects the amends to the scheme and includes accumulative impacts of any further new developments since the original application was submitted in 2019.

Transport Assessment – updated following further extensive modelling work to assess the proposed development in Leicestershire County Council’s Pan Regional Transport Model. An extensive multimillion-pound package of highways and transport improvements have been identified and incorporated, including those identified by Leicestershire County Council, such as:

– Lubbesthorpe Way widening scheme

– Upgrades to the B4114/Park & Ride and B4114/Penman Way signal junctions to MOVA signal operation

– Desford Crossroad scheme improvement

– Travel Packs for all new employees with 6-month bus pass

– New footpath/cycleway along St Johns

– Delivery of a highway scheme of capacity enhancement at the A563 / Meridian South roundabout

It has also been agreed that the Proposed Development will include for a Framework Travel Plan and a strategy will also be agreed for the provision of a bus service to serve the development.

As a result of the additional work and mitigation measures, the Local Highway Authority has confirmed that the impacts on the road network would not be severe and concludes that the residual cumulative impacts of development can be mitigated in accordance with the NPPF.

Price on application – contact Aston & Co on 0116 260 7788 or email: syston@astonandco.co.uk

LOCATION DETAILS

office buildings with a garage block to the rear. Planning permission (ref: 19/02486/FUL) was granted on 6th November 2020 for demolition of the existing buildings, conversion of two buildings into dwellings and erection of six dwellings, with new vehicle access, parking provision and landscaping. The new build properties comprise five townhouses and one detached house.

Rare opportunity to acquire a freehold development opportunity centrally within the large village of Whitwick approximately Coalville and 14 miles from Leicester.

Leicestershire-based Stephen George was the architect.

Offers over £500,000 are invited. Contact Jamie Forman at William H Brown on 07970 101575 or email: loughborough@ williamhbrown.co.uk

Offers Over £500,000

Development opportunity for sale in Humberstone

MR & MRS S MAWJI

(c/o Agent: David Granger

Architectural Design Limited, The Old Cottage Hospital, Leicester Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1DB) – Erection of single storey side and rear extension to existing care home – at Oakleigh Home for the Elderly, 50 Ashby Road, Moira, Swadlincote, Derby DE12 6DJ.

CADEBY HOMES LIMITED (c/o Agent: Eleanor Overton, Pegasus Group, 4 The Courtyard, Church Road, Lockington, Derby DE74 2SL) – Erection of 80 dwellings including temporary construction access, parking, pedestrian links and open space to parcel E (Reserved Matters) – at land adjacent to Grange Road, Hugglescote, Coalville, Leics.

Blaby District

PROPCO (GLENFIELD)

LIMITED & MMCG2 DEVCO4

LIMITED (c/o Agent: Mrs Jacqueline Jackson, Marrons Planning, 2 Colton Square, Leicester LE1 1QH) – Demolition of 5 & 7 Groby Road and erection of a 74-bedroom care home with associated access, parking, landscaping and infrastructure

– at 5 & 7 Groby Road, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8GN.

MR NICK SYMONDS (c/o Agent: Stuart Spiller, Stuarch, 21 Stoke Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0EA) –Outline application for 6 dwellings and associated infrastructure – at 10 & 12 Ridgeway, Littlethorpe, Leics. LE19 2JJ.

MR PATEL (c/o Agent: Mr Elliot Smith, 23 Vyner Street, London E2 9DG) – Outline application for residential development of 6 dwellings and associated works, including demolition of all buildings on site – at Willow Farm, Winchester Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4HN.

Charnwood Borough

MR S EDMUNDS (c/o Agent: KC Planning & Development) – Outline application for the erection of up to 3 dwellings – at 1 London Lane, Wymeswold, Leics. LE12 6UB.

ESALE are offering for sale a single building plot adjacent to 56 Vicarage Lane, Humberstone, Leicester LE5 1EE.

The site (0.1 acre) is rectangular and flat and is situated on the corner of Vicarage Lane and Lobbs Wood Close (LE5 1EE).

£300,000

5 4 3

The proposed accommodation includes a living kitchen, study, lounge, snug, 5 double bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, playroom and cinema room.

Full planning permission was granted on the 14th November 2022 under Leicester City Council planning reference 20221608. The agents understand water, sewage, gas and electricity will need to be connected to the site.

The asking price is £300,000.

For more information, contact Esale on 01423 623 333 or 0800 025 3451, or email: info@esaleuk.com

Walkers buys land for new plant from City Council

LAND CLOSE to Walkers

Snack Foods’ main factory site in Leicester is being earmarked as the location for a potato washing plant after the company agreed a £3.5m purchase of the 6.4acre site near Thurcaston Road with the city council.

The sale, which could bring at least 40 jobs, is conditional on planning permission and developer legal agreements, but providing these are in place, construction of the new building could get under way this summer.

As part of the terms of the land sale, the council will fund a £2.25m estate road to serve the new plant and open up access to adjoining land owned by the council at Ashton Green.

Leicester City Council is the principal landowner and promoter of Ashton Green, a sustainable urban extension to the north of Leicester comprising 320 acres of greenfield land. When complete, it will provide up to 3,000 homes, employment land, retail space and around 13 acres of green space.

Work begins on new 6th Form college in Corby

WORK HAS started on transforming Chisholm House in Corby into a new state of the art campus, for 16 – 18-year olds, ahead of its opening in time for the start of the Autumn term.

Once completed, the 40,000 sq ft Corby Sixth Form will offer a range of A Level subjects and comprise an impressive new entrance, more than 25 classrooms, state of the art science labs, resource centres and performance areas. The students will be able to enjoy an external roof terrace, a modern café and common room areas – all in a town centre location.

The new campus is being delivered in partnership between The Bedford College Group and North Northamptonshire Council. The 6th Form will be run by The Bedford College Group from Autumn 2023.

The project is being facilitated through the Corby Towns Fund, which sees the Corby area receiving £19.9m from central Government for four projects, including the new sixth form centre.

SDL

Knight Frank Auction

Thursday 16th March 2023

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Thursday 30th March 2023

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Wednesday 29th March 2023

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Thursday 30th March 2023

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SHONKI BROTHERS K Sangra

Wednesday 26th April 2023

Wednesday 14th June 2023

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SHONKI BROS LS Sangra

Wednesday 29th March

Wednesday 17th May Visit www.shonkibros.com

Development Opportunity Land Adjacent to 56 Vicarage Lane Humberstone, Leicester, LE5 1EE

NICK HUMPHREYS (c/o Agent: TUK Architecture) – Prior notification for change of use of retail unit into mixed use retail and 2 flats – at 14 Devonshire Square, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3DW.

B SINGH (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning) – Demolition of existing building and erection of four storey building comprising 18 flats with associated landscaping and bin storage facilities – at 17-18 Packe Street, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3EZ.

THE GOVERNORS (c/o Agent: YMD Boon Limited) – Proposed new modular building to provide new multi-use teaching space with ancillary spaces for the Bradgate Education Partnership – at Wreake Valley Academy, Parkstone Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 1LY.

ST PHILIPS (c/o Agent: Lichfields) – Outline planning application for the development of up to 60 dwellings including affordable housing with new vehicular access, open space and associated infrastructure – at land off Cotes Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leics.

SWITHLAND HOMES (c/o Agent: Aitchison Raffety) –Outline planning application for up to 20 dwellings – at 97 Gynsill Lane, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7AJ.

ROSCONN STRATEGIC LAND, KENNETH WILLIAM TILL, ANDREW KENNETH TILL, GILLIAN ROSEMARY TILL AND RACHEL ELIZABETH HOBSON (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning) - Outline planning application (with all matters reserved, except for access) for a residential development of up to 130 dwellings, demolition of 91 Cotes Road and agricultural buildings, provision of access from Cotes Road, associated landscaping, open space, infrastructure and enabling earthworks – at land off Cotes Road, Barrow upon Soar, Leics.

Control over number of Houses in Multiple Occupation extended

LIMITS to the number of homes being converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in parts of Leicester came into effect in February.

The measures have been introduced following a public consultation with residents who raised concerns about parking problems, litter, antisocial behaviour and noise linked to high numbers of HMOs in their neighbourhoods.

Prior to this change, planning consent was not needed to convert a house into a HMO designed for between three and six people to live in. However, where there is evidence that high numbers of HMOs in a particular area is having a negative impact upon that neighbourhood, councils can introduce a legal requirement, called an Article 4 Direction, which would mean planning permission is needed for the change of use.

An Article 4 Direction has already been in place since 2013 in several areas of the city, to control the number of HMOs.

The latest move sees Leicester City Council expanding - and in some cases joining together - those areas to include thousands more houses in areas where high numbers of HMOs exist. It follows an eight-week public consultation process which ran from November 2021 until January 2022.

The previous Article 4 Direction covered parts of the West End, streets near to De Montfort University’s campus and Leicester Royal Infirmary, numerous streets in the area between New Walk and HMP Leicester, as well as most of Clarendon Park and a section south of Lancaster Road.

The West End zone will now be extended to stretch from Rowley Fields, to Westcotes, Newfoundpool and parts of the Waterside area, while the Clarendon Park area will incorporate much of Knighton Fields, Knighton, Stoneygate and part of Aylestone.

A third new area will include much of Spinney Hills and Highfields.

The proportion of HMOs across the city as a whole is just under seven percent of housing stock; however in some parts of the areas covered by the Article 4 Direction, HMOs account for between 25 and 38 percent of housing stock.

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Two canalside building plots near Tamworth

MARK EVANS & CO are offering for sale a parcel of land with planning permission (ref: 0550/2021) for demolition of existing garage workshops and the erection of two detached homes.

The plots – adjacent to Doris croft, Dog Lane, Tamworth Road, Amington, Tamworth B77 4AH – are being offered at a price of £300,000.

For more information, contact Mark Evans & Co on 01827 311300 or email: info@ markevanstamworth.com

Swadlincote plot with expired planning consent

JOHN GERMAN are offering for sale a building plot with recently expired outline planning consent (ref: 9/2018/0734) for a twobed detached bungalow, with integral garage.

The plot – at Westfield Road, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 0BG – is being offered at a price of £64,950.

For further details, contact John German on 01283 512244 or email: burton@johngerman.co.uk

Corby District

MR JASON CLARKE (c/o Agent: RDC, Unit 5, Twigden Barns, Creaton, Northants. NN6 8NN) – Construction of 36 dwellings with associated access road and public open space – at land rear of 112 Corby Road, Weldon, Northants.

FOXBOROUGH HOMES (c/o: Wakerley Road, Harringworth, Northants. NN17 3AH) – Erection of 6 dwellings with associated garaging and car parking – at Gretton Village Hall, 61 Kirby Road, Gretton, Corby, Northants. NN17 3DB.

East Northants.

RUSHDEN TOWN COUNCIL

(c/o Agent: Gavin Cook, Hinton Cook Architects, 12 Warren Yard, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes MK12 5NW) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at Silverdale Road, Rushden, Northants. NN10 6UG.

MR DAVID SMITH (c/o

Agent: Jon Sidey, Sidey Design Architecture, 10 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, Northants. NN10 8BT) – Erection of 4 four-bed dwellings – at Gordonville, Slipton Road, Twywell, Northants. NN14 3AH.

Rushcliffe

MR PHILIP EDSON (c/o Agent: Bruce Bradley Architect, 51 Ella Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5GX) – Demolition of existing old joinery workshops and erection of 2 new detached dwellings – at T Edson & Sons Limited, Main Road, Plumtree, Nottinghamshire NG12 5NB.

Mr Chris Carlisle (c/o Agent: Mr Sean Lyall, Lyall & Lyall Limited, 70 Desford Road, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester) – Construction of 11 employment offices, research and development, light industry and storage units in two buildings with associated external works – at Colliers Business Park, Fieldfare Road, Cotgrave, Nottinghamshire NG12 3UL.

SITE SAVER GROUND MATS AT UNBEATABLE PRICES – END OF SEASON SALE

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Development

land in West Bridgford

KEEPING CONSTRUCTION on target through bad ground conditions can be slow going, which is why the specially developed Eco Ground Mat has been hailed a ‘site-saver’ helping hundreds of projects meet deadline whatever the weather.

Developed by Eco Track & Access Ltd, the Leicestershire-based company which supplies many of the UK’s top festivals and events, these eco-friendly heavy-duty ground mats are designed to provide ground cover and protection, particularly for areas where churn-up can be heaviest preventing machinery and vehicles gaining access to site.

Developed to match the performance of metal systems whilst ensuring minimal ground damage and rapid site recovery, Eco Ground Mats feature anti-slip/traction surfaces on each side facilitating both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

Made from 100% virgin HDPE Eco Ground Mats are available in two sizes; 1.2m x 2.4m x 15mm approx. and 1.5m x 3.0m x 20mm approx. and are currently priced from £99 + VAT while stocks last. For an instant quote contact: sales@ecotrackway.co.uk or telephone 07703 642665 now!

Riverside warehouse in RICHARD WATKINSON

& Partners are offering for sale a riverside warehouse conversion opportunity with full planning permission for 14 apartments and a pair of semi-detached houses.

The property – Mills Warehouse, Mills Drive, Farndon Road, Newark, Notts. NG24 4SE – sits on a one acre site, less than one mile from the town centre.

Offers in excess of £650,000 are invited.

For more information, contact Richard Watkinson & Partners on 01636 611811 or email: newark@richardwatkinson.co.uk

SAVILLS are offering for sale a riverside site with outline planning permission (ref: 21/02884/FUL) for six apartments.

The land – at 26 Wilford Lane, West Bridgford, Nottingham – is being offered at a guide price of £1,500,000 freehold.

For further details, contact Savills on 0115 934 8020 or email: nottingham@savills.com

Plot for sale in Stathern

Agents are offering for sale a building plot in the Vale of Belvoir, with planning permission (ref: 21/00554/ FUL) for a three-bedroom dwelling.

The plot – adjacent to 8 City Road, Stathern, Leics. LE14 4HE – is being offered at an asking price of £300,000.

For details, contact Middletons on 01664 566258 or email: info@ middletons.uk.com

Development opportunity in Leicester city centre

MR J CROFT (c/o Agent: Roger Harrison Architecture, 30 Abbey Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5NF) – Alteration, conversion and extension of the existing farm buildings to create 5 dwellings plus demolition of minor ancillary buildings – at Holly Farm, Bassingfield Lane, Bassingfield, Nottinghamshire NG12 2LG.

MR B THOMSON (c/o Agent: Miss Charlotte Stainton, Stainton Planning, 50 Guildford lane, Danesmoor, Chesterfield S45 9BP) – Outline application for the erection of up to 110 dwellings and up to 5,600 sq.metres of employment units including associated infrastructure, access, roadway, parking and landscape/ amenity areas – at land at Former Bunny Brickworks Site, Loughborough Road, Bunny, Nottinghamshire.

TOMMY MERRALL (c/o Agent: Mr Ryan Astill, Astill Planning Consultants Limited, 144 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7JA) –Extension to the workshop to form an MOT station and additional units; change of use of existing dwelling to an MOT reception and admin block; and erection of a new dwellinghouse with detached garage – at Willoughby Service Station, Fosse Way, Willoughby on the Wolds, Nottinghamshire LE14 3QD.

MR CHRIS SAMPLES (c/o Agent: Jackson-Crane Architecture & Interiors, 7 The Courtyard, 2C High Street, Ruddington, Nottingham NG11 6ER) – Demolition of existing rear outbuildings and walls plus erection of two storey building to the rear to create 5 residential units – at 15 Church Street, Ruddington, Notts. NG11 6HA.

KNIGHT FRANK and Taylor Freeman Kataria are offering for sale a 0.4 acre square development site with planning consent for a six and seven storey building comprising 92 flats. There is no Section 106 contribution.

The site – at Lee Circle, Leicester LE1 3RE – currently comprises a mixture of light industrial, general industrial and storage/distribution units arranged as one and two storey buildings. They share a common service yard with associated car parking accessed off Lee Circle.

Offers are invited. Email either Charlie Steele at: Charlie.steele@ knightfrank.com or Rajiv Kataria at: Rajiv@cliffords-estates.co.uk

CTD Tiles Ltd acquires 13 branches from Tile Giant

CTD Tiles Limited (CTD), part of the AURELIUS Group, has announced the acquisition of 13 UK branches, from Tile Giant. The existing team members will become part of CTD.

The transaction will expand CTD’s nationwide network of branches and bolster its commitment to being one of the UK’s leading omnichannel specialist tile distributors.

Shaun Mason, CTD’s Head of Commercial & Supply Chain, commented: “We want to drive forward our vision of CTD and we will continue to look for further opportunities to grow both organically and through acquisitions”.

Williams Homes marketing suite at Swinford Meadow opens

WILLIAMS Builders have opened a marketing suite at their Swinford Meadows development in Rugby Road, Swinford.

The highly specified homes benefit from fully fitted kitchens complete with Quartz worktops, Kardean Flooring and a range of Quality Bosch appliances.

One of the key advantages is there will be NO Gas bills to pay. By using An Air heat source pump to provide domestic space heating and hot water, it is possible to greatly reduce CO2 emissions.

The marketing Suite is open, Saturday and Sundays, 10-00 till 4-00.

Visit: www.williamshomes.co.uk

CHRIS PEAT (c/o Agent: Richard Cooper, HSSP Architects Limited, Pera Business Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Demolition of existing bungalow and erection of 2 two storey dwellings – at Woodlands, Westhorpe, Willoughby on the Wolds, Notts. LE12 6TD.

MRS MASTERS (c/o Agent: Mr Dino Labbate, Swish Architecture Limited, Unit 2B, 100 Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 6EP) – Change of use from B1 offices to 9 apartments including three storey side and rear extension, new increased roof height and roof – at NG Property Consultants Limited, 43 Loughborough Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7LA.

JOANNA MEAKIN (c/o Agent: Barton Willmore, 9th Floor, Bank House, 8 Cherry Street, Birmingham B2 5AL) Scoping request for development – at land at Tollerton Airfield, Tollerton Lane, Tollerton, Notts.

Rugby Borough

JESSUP PARTNERSHIPS & RUGBY ASSETS LIMITED & RUGBY ASSETS 1 LIMITED (c/o Agent: rg+p Limited, Waterloo House, 71 Princess Road West, Leicester LE1 6TR) – Construction of 111 dwellings with associated access, roads, parking and landscaping – at land north of Projects Drive, Rugby, Warks.

MRS RAHIMI (c/o Agent: Rebecca Walker, Chapman Design LLP, Lelleford House, Coventry Road, Rugby, Warks. CV23 9DT) –Proposed two new build dwellings with associate parking, landscaping and dropped kerb – at 97 Clifton Road, Rugby, Warks. CV21 3QH.

My daughter won first prize in an Unusual Pet contest. She entered a tin of sardines.

Leicester’s Waterside regeneration reaches ten-year milestone

LEICESTER’S Waterside regeneration project will reach its tenth anniversary this year and some major milestones have been achieved along the way.

The city council effectively kickstarted the ambitious transformation of the Waterside area in 2013, when it stepped in to protect and redevelop the derelict 18th century Friars Mill building after it was badly damaged in a fire.

Since then, the regeneration of Waterside has seen the construction of 1,000 new homes, the development of 9,000sqm of new office space, and the creation of around 500 new jobs. It has also helped attract private investment of about £300 million into the city.

City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “Friars Mill was the catalyst for the transformative regeneration that we now see happening at Leicester ’s Waterside.

“The area had suffered badly since the 1980s, with the closure of key industries leaving many sites neglected and underused. For decades, it had been an area with immense but unrealised potential.

“Following the blaze that gutted the Donisthorpe factory at Friars Mill in 2012, it quickly become clear that the council needed to intervene. We had to act to protect and preserve this important historic building but also to reverse the decline in the wider Waterside area.

“In 2013, we purchased the Friars Mill site with a view to restoring and redeveloping it, thereby sowing the seeds of a wider vision to transform Waterside into a vibrant, attractive area to live and work in.

“I am very proud of what has been achieved in the ten years since. A longneglected area of derelict industrial land has been brought back into use. We’re creating a thriving neighbourhood with great places to live, space for businesses to flourish and excellent access to the city’s beautiful riverside.”

The ambitious vision for the regeneration of Waterside was launched in 2015 with a new council-led masterplan that set out a clear planning vision to transform the long-neglected area, with new houses, apartments, office development and high-quality public spaces.

The following year, the painstakingly restored Friars Mill opened, offering over 2,300sqm of new managed workspaces and 1,000sqm of new offices.

“In 2016, the Waterside area was still in a sorry state with large areas of derelict and unused land and buildings that were falling into disrepair,” added Sir Peter. “The completed Friars Mill stood as a beacon for the wider regeneration of the Waterside. It showed what was possible with the right investment and demonstrated our intent to transform this important part of the city.”

It was in 2016 that the city council successfully bid for legal powers to buy the 17-acres of land needed for the first £80million phase of regeneration and appointed its development partner – Keepmoat Homes – to deliver it.

The council took vacant possession of the site in 2017, and demolition work began the year after.

Now, work is well under way on this first phase of council-led regeneration which will be delivering over 360 new homes including 75 affordable supported living apartments, over 5,000sqm of new office space, and new open spaces. The first 100 homes are now complete and occupied, and the first phase of new office development is already helping to create hundreds of new jobs.

It has also acted as a catalyst for major private development in the area, helping to attract around £300million of new investment into the city. This includes the creation of an additional 900 new apartments; new accommodation for around 1,000 students; a new school for 1,200 pupils; more much-needed office space; two new hotels; and, the stunning redevelopment of the historic former Leicester Central railway station, just off the inner ring road.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The regeneration of Waterside represents a tremendous boost to the city’s growth and prosperity. It’s been ten years since our purchase of a derelict and fire damaged historic factory kickstarted this ambitious project and it’s extremely encouraging to see the positive impact that has had over the last decade.”

The first phase of council-led regeneration is now expected to be complete in 2027.

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Waterside site clearance and Waterside birds eye view of redevelopment in progress

Development Properties IN BRIEF

Plot for stunning 5-bed house

SAVILLS are offering for sale a 0.65 acre plot with full planning permission (ref: DMPA/2021/1875) for the erection of a replacement three storey dwelling, garage/car port building and detached gym building.

The plot – at Brooklands, Weston Road, Weston-On-Trent, Derby – is being offered at a guide price of £895,000.

For more information, contact Luke Billson at Savills on 0115 934 8020 or email: nottingham@ savills.com

Leicester investment opportunity for sale by auction

Rail freight application submitted

DEVELOPERS Tritax Symmetry (Hinckley)

Limited have submitted their application for the Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange (HNRFI) to the Planning Inspectorate.

The Planning Inspectorate have until 6th March to decide whether to accept the application. If the application is accepted, the Planning Inspectorate will begin assessing the developer’s plans. During this period, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council has 14 days to respond to the Planning Inspectorate consultation on whether it believes the developer’s consultation on the plans leading up to the submission was adequate.

If the Planning Inspectorate accept that the application can proceed to Examination, there will then be an opportunity for the public to get involved during an expected six-month-long examination phase, including public hearings, which should take place later this year; a decision is expected by the middle of next year.

The scheme, earmarked for 440 acres of land between the M69 and the Leicester to Birmingham railway line, is to the north-east of Hinckley - partially within the Hinckley and Bosworth Borough with the majority situated within the Blaby District – and would be based close to Junction 2 of the M69 to the north of Burbage Common.

Half of small builders want targeted immigration to tackle skills crises, says FMB

THE LATEST STATE OF TRADE Survey from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) reveals that 48% of FMB members are in favour of the UK Government introducing plans to attract more skilled labour from abroad to help address the chronic skills gap in construction. 21% opposed changing immigration rules, and 27% neither supported nor opposed them.

With the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) reporting the need for 53,000 additional workers a year to meet construction demand, the FMB is calling for all options to be considered to get Britain building. The FMB survey data also stressed support for any immigration measures to be underpinned by investment in UK-based skills training.

BOOK SPOT

Traditional Brickwork: Construction, Repair and Maintenance

by Terrence Lee

TRADITIONAL BRICKWORK is an informative guide to working with traditional brick.

Based on the author’s hands-on experience, it explains the manufacture and use of brick in England, revealing its characteristics and vulnerabilities. It also examines the survival of traditional brickwork and the practical methods to assess, construct, repair and maintain it, together with the necessary tools and materials. Featuring over 400 images, this helpful book will be of great interest to bricklayers, instructors and all interested in the use of traditional brickwork both past, present and future. AMAZON PRICE: £16.59 (PAPERBACK)

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SDL AUCTIONS are offering for sale BY AUCTION an investment opportunity comprising 15 student letting rooms in Leicester city centre.

The period building – 14 Albion Street, Leicester, LE1 6GB –houses four cluster flats offering a total of fifteen student letting rooms. The accommodation is being offered let and in good order throughout, and having modern décor, kitchens and bathrooms and coming fully furnished. Current income is circa £55,000 per annum.

For sale by auction on Thursday 30th March (10 am start).

Guide Price: £675,000+ plus fees. Contact SDL auctions on 0800 046 5454 or visit the website at www.sdlauctions.co.uk

Up to 268 hectares (equivalent to 662 acres) of land would be used for the construction of a rail terminal for the loading and unloading of freight trains under the proposals, providing 650,000 square metres of floorspace and up to 250,000 square metres of mezzanine space. Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, Blaby District Council and Leicestershire County Council are statutory consultees in the process but will not be deciding the application. Due to the size of the proposed development, it is classed as a “Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project” and any decision will be made by the Secretary of State for Transport after the recommendation is made by the Planning Inspectorate following the Examination.

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GROWTH FOR LAND AGENCY TEAM AT LUTTERWORTH FIRM

THE PLANNING and development team at awardwinning Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultancy, Wells McFarlane has grown with the appointment of a new Assistant Land Agent.

Tom Knowles, a graduate of the Royal Agricultural University, has joined the Lutterworth-based firm to support its well-established land agency, planning and development divisions.

“I’m from an agricultural background, my family has been farming in Leicestershire for over 20 years so rural matters have always interested me,” explains Tom. “However, I’ve never been drawn to the farming side so land agency seemed the logical career choice. After undertaking an apprenticeship, my degree and a subsequent graduate surveying role, I’ve built up a solid understanding of estate management, the planning process, and development land, and am keen to continue learning to better advise landowners and clients.

“As a Leicestershire local, Wells McFarlane have always been on my radar; their land portfolio is diverse and Trevor is especially well-known within the community so I’m looking forward to working alongside him to progress my career,” added Tom. Alongside his new role, which includes responsibility for valuations, marketing and strategic planning advice, Tom is studying towards his RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) qualification and CAAV (Central Association of Agricultural Valuers) exams. He hopes to become accredited by the end of this year.

Trevor Wells, Director of Planning & Development at Wells McFarlane said: “The past year has seen our team complete some significant land deals, and our work has been steadily increasing, especially as development land remains in such scarce supply and competition for consented sites is strong, meaning the effective promotion of strategic land is more important than ever. Tom recognised this and applied at the ideal time. He is insightful, curious and friendly, and is proving a great addition to the team.”

Landlords urged to apply for new licensing schemes

CHARNWOOD Borough Council is now accepting applications from landlords of private rented properties that are covered by two new licensing schemes.

The Council has introduced Additional and Selective Licensing to drive up standards across privately rented homes in the area.

Landlords and letting agents with properties in the borough are being urged to check the new licensing requirements and apply online. If they have properties which are affected by the schemes, then they must apply for a licence.

Additional Licensing is a boroughwide scheme for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) which do not already hold a mandatory licence and are occupied by three and four unrelated persons.

Selective Licensing in the Hastings and Lemyngton wards in Loughborough focuses on privately rented accommodation and aims to improve standards. Selective Licensing requires all landlords operating within the two wards to licence their property.

The new schemes will enable the Council to work with landlords to ensure their properties are suitable for tenants to live in and are being managed effectively.

The licence fee per application is £700 for five years which will be only used to cover the costs to run the licensing schemes.

More information and how to apply can be found on the Council’s website at www.charnwood.gov.uk/ PropertyLicensing

Bolsover District Council agrees to establish new development company

BOLSOVER District Council has agreed to formally establish a wholly owned development company, to help provide regeneration and new housing.

The company, called Dragonfly Development, will provide an income stream from housing, commercial and regeneration activities across the District to help fund the Council’s ambitions and the key challenges it faces. Deputy leader, Councillor Duncan McGregor said: “Let’s not beat about the bush here, government funding is reducing all the time, so we have to come up with ways of generating more income if the Council is to survive and we are to continue with our ambitions and improve the services we provide.

“Our district is growing and everyone deserves the chance to live in a safe, secure, modern and efficient property So, if we are in control of building these properties through Dragonfly Development, this will enable us to formulate business cases for each project and provide new homes for areas that need them and for people living in that community.”

The Council decided to set up the company after it had previously took quick and decisive action by agreeing to take on the current constructions projects at Whaley Thorns, Creswell, Langwith and Shirebrook after the collapse of its preferred building contractor Robert Woodhead Ltd.

A full business case on the new company was commissioned from Sharpe Pritchard (Public Sector Lawyers) and councillors had the opportunity to ask questions at two separate presentations. The business case shows Dragonfly to be a viable proposition, which will generate income over the proposed 30-year period of the plan.

Councillor McGregor added: “So, rather than a construction company making a profit on our regeneration and house-building schemes, Dragonfly Development will allow us to take this profit and re-invest it back into our services and District for the benefit of our residents.”

Development Properties IN BRIEF Residential development land in Syston

BROWN & CO FOX

BENNETT are offering for sale an existing three-bed chalet-style bungalow on a site of 1.16 acres at 185 Barkby Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2AJ.

Outline planning consent (ref: P/21/1549/2) has been granted for up to 8 dwellings.

The Guide Price is £1,000,000.

For more information, contact Gilbert Watchorn at Brown & Co Fox Bennett on 07825 780 144 or email: gilbert.watchorn@brown-co. com

Site for a care home in Irthlingborough

OSCAR JAMES Estate

planning ref- 15/00376/FUL. quiet predominantly residential area, adjacent to open countryside yet just a short distance to local shops and transport links. The overall plot size is circa 0.8 of Benefitting  highly  layout floors,  offering suite shower  communal lounges, bathrooms,  parking spaces.

For further information or to arrange a site visit please contact sole selling agents Oscar James today. buyer paying Oscar James a finders fee **

Agents are offering for sale a building plot with full planning permission (ref: 15/00376/FUL) for a 60-bedroom care home at 332 Addington Road, Irthlingborough, Northants. NN9 5UU.

The proposed accommodation would be arranged over three floors, each offering 20 bedrooms with their own en-suite shower room, communal lounges, bathrooms, dining areas and kitchens along with a proposed hairdresser’s salon, site office, laundry rooms, 2 lifts and 31 outside parking spaces.

Guide Price: £1,000,000.

For more information, contact Oscar James on 01933 830300 or visit: www.oscar-james.com

Tom Knowles, Wells McFarlane’s new Assistant Land Agent.

The longest bench in Europe?

Work to start this year on green urban park in Nottingham

2023 will see the regeneration of Nottingham’s Southside “continuing apace,” according to Nottingham City Council, despite the setback of £20m of Levelling Up Funding for part of the Broad Marsh vision not being granted by Government.

The Broad Marsh site itself will see work start on the Green Heart element of the scheme later this year.

This will see an area the size of Nottingham’s City Ground football pitch turned into a green urban park, complete with extensive planting and wetland/marsh areas, bringing nature into the heart of the city centre, along with walkways and what could be the longest bench in Europe.

This will be created in the area where the western end of the former shopping centre has been demolished and cleared.

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