October 2013 leicestershire builder magazine by Michael Wilkinson

New recruits commence their construction careers at William Davis

Auction Wed 16th Oct

Eight new apprentices are celebrating their success at earning a place on the traditional construction scheme offered by William Davis Ltd. The Loughborough-based contractor and developer received over 80 applications for the 2013 intake of its hugely popular apprenticeship scheme, which has been running since 1946. The eight successful candidates are Samuel Beaver; Connor Hall (both plumbers); Jack Harrison (electrician); Zac MacDonald; Sam Moore (both bricklayers); Liam Moss (electrician); Callum Patterson and Bryce White (both carpenter/joiners). All from across Leicestershire, the new recruits will undertake a three or four year structured training programme to learn their craft. This combines one-to-one mentoring on site by the company’s apprentice masters, Pete Weston and Dave King; academic studies at either Stephenson College or Loughborough College and guidance from CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) apprenticeship officers. In addition to their vocational and practical training, apprentices are also given opportunities to compete against their peers in national competitions such as SkillBUILD, SkillPLUMB and WorldSkills.

A total of 14 select properties are due to go under the hammer at the next Shonki Bros. L.S.Sangra Property Auction on Wednesday 16th October 2013, at the King Power Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, starting at 5pm prompt.

Amongst the lots is a residential investment property at Cedar Road, Near Evington Road in Leicester. The property comprises eight bedsits

& one self contained flat and is well presented internally. The estimated full rental income is £37,200 p.a. which represents a yield of 16.5%. • Please note that this property is being offered jointly with Reliance Properties

Guide price for this property: £225,000 - £250,000 For brief details of all of the lots on offer, turn to pages 16 & 17 of this issue or download the full catalogue from the website at www.shonkibros.com

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

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Bank of England ‘should limit house price inflation’ RICS research proposes cap on price growth

The Bank of England’s Financial Policy Committee should consider limiting annual house price inflation to five percent in order to prevent another housing bubble, reckless bank lending and a dangerous build up in household debt, according to new RICS research launched today. With excessive price growth and high mortgage lending having led to a vulnerable banking sector, specific policy on limiting growth is needed. Such a policy could be implemented with caps on elements such as loanto-value ratios, loan-to-income ratios, and mortgage durations, or imposing ceilings on the amount banks are permitted to lend, should prices exceed a given limit. Sending a clear and simple statement to the public that the Bank of England will not tolerate house price rises above five percent would help restrict excessive price expectations across the country. This policy would discourage households from taking on excessive debt out of fear of missing out on a price boom, and discourage lenders from rushing to relax their lending standards as they compete for market share. Schemes such as this have been used in the likes of Canada between 2008 and 2012, during Mark Carney’s tenure as the Bank of Canada Governor. At this time, the national regulator gradually reduced the minimum mortgage repayment period, the amount buyers could potentially borrow in relation to their deposit and imposed more stringent credit checks. It is widely acknowledged that these measures significantly eased the pressure on the nation’s market. The only difference between what has been done before in other countries and what the Bank of England should implement is that of transparency. Public confidence is central to the success of this strategy and it is vital that any policy is communicated to the public in an open and accessible way. Joshua Miller, RICS Senior Economist, said: “The Bank of England now has the ability to take the froth out of future housing market booms, without having to resort to interest rate increases. Capping price growth at, say, five percent is one way of doing this. “This cap would send a clear and simple statement to the public and the banking sector, managing expectations as to how much future house prices are going to rise. We believe firmly anchored house price expectations would limit excessive risk taking and, as a result, limit an unsustainable rise in debt.”

For sale by auction of 3rd October

Spacious Melton semi requiring full modernisation SHOULERS Estate Agents are offering for sale BY AUCTION a deceptively spacious Victorian semidetached house requiring full modernisation. The property - 189 Thorpe Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1SF - has three double bedrooms, a through lounge, breakfast room, kitchen plus front and rear gardens. It is being offered for sale BY AUCTION at 6.30pm on Thursday 3rd October 2013 at The Market Tavern in Melton Mowbray Market. The Guide Price is £100,000-£110,000. For more information, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or visit the website at www.shoulers.co.uk

BSP Consulting secure Brooksby Melton College development project

BSP Consulting has been appointed as structural, civil and geotechnical engineer for major redevelopments at Brooksby Melton College. The Leicestershire college is currently undertaking a £22million programme of improvements at its Melton and Brooksby campuses. BSP, with offices in Leicester, Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield, has won a contract to carry out the engineering work for the developments at the Brooksby site, which include the construction of two new two-storey teaching blocks, an extension to the animal care centre and also the building of a multi-sports hall. Design work is now underway for the Brooksby development, which is scheduled to be completed by September 2015. “This is a significant appointment for BSP, and we are proud to be involved in such an exciting project for Brooksby Melton College which will provide state-of-the-art facilities and improved social and teaching areas,” said BSP associate Paul Elphick. “As a company, we have provided engineering design services at a number of educational sites, including Oakham Church of England Primary School, Landau Forte Academy in Tamworth and Darley Dale Primary School in Derbyshire. This latest project marks a considerable investment at Brooksby Melton College and will contribute to the college’s development over the next few years.” Architect for the scheme is Maber, and the project manager and quantity surveyor is Armsons, of Darley Abbey, Derbyshire. BSP Consulting, which has its head office at Oxford Street, Nottingham, is currently working on the designs for the improvements ahead of a detailed planning application being submitted. The company provides a comprehensive range of consultancy services in civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation and environmental engineering to all sectors of the construction community, from architects, project managers and contractors to developers and estate agents. It was founded in 1999 and operates across the UK. For more information visit www.bsp-consulting.co.uk

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Ministers ‘Should Not Try and Dampen Housing Market Recovery’ - says London Central Portfolio Government ministers, led by Vince Cable, are warning of ‘serious housing inflationary signs’, following an encouraging 1% monthly price rise for England and Wales in July and reports of a growing army of real estate workers. RICS have added fuel to the fire by suggesting limiting house price inflation to 5% a year. However, data analysed by London Central Portfolio (LCP) has revealed that fears of a house price bubble are premature. In a fragile economic recovery, it would seem ill judged to dampen the small sparks of hope for many UK home owners. According to the Government’s Office of National Statistics, average annual price growth in the UK has been 9.4% since 1969, the date from which the data is published. This represents a doubling of values approximately every seven years. Current price growth is vastly under long term average. According to the Government’s other house price data set, the Land Registry House Price Index, published since 1996, growth has been just 0.67% per year over the last 7 years (July 2006 - July 2013). This equates to a fall in real prices of -3.1% p.a. This compares with growth of 13.22% p.a. in the 7 years before (1999 – 2006). This reflected the recovery of the housing market after the price doldrums of the 1990s and a booming economy. Few, if any, commentators reported a bubble then, suggesting that house price rises were taken for granted in a dynamic economy. LCP, who track price data from Land Registry and have observed this long term cycle of doubling prices on average every 7 years, reported back in 2006 that the housing market had corrected following the downturn in the 1990s. Indeed, growth started slowing that year, well before the credit crunch. The dramatic fall in prices of 17% in 2009 was not a kick back from growth in the early 2000s but a result of the UK hitting a brick wall during a period of global meltdown. A significant uplift in prices can now be expected as the economy improves. This will be a market correction, not atypical inflation. “Knee-jerk reactions to short term movements are not helpful and should be tempered by a proper understanding of market dynamics. Residential property prices in the UK move in cycles. Periods of growth are generally followed by periods of consolidation. A rise one year may be offset by a fall in the next. Capping growth at 5% a year, as RICS suggests, completely ignores this dynamic” says Hugh Best, Head of Investment at LCP. Naomi Heaton, CEO of LCP, adds: “Any market manipulation has a dangerous precedent. The bust in 1989 was exacerbated by an artificial boom in sales created by tax changes introduced by the Thatcher Government, which coincided with a doubling of base rates to 15% in October 1989, with devastating consequences”. Post script: It is an interesting fact that the Office of National Statistics has managed to completely eradicate the 1989 downturn in the market, showing only one period of negative growth ,-1.74% in 1992.

Development site in Markfield village centre ANDREW GRANGER & Co are offering for sale the former Miners’ Welfare Institute building in Main Street, Markfield, Leicestershire.

Harborough

Councillors give change of use plans go-ahead Plans for more flexibility around the types of businesses which could occupy units at the district council’s redeveloped building have been given the go-ahead.

The property has planning permission (ref: 12/00544/CON) for partial demolition of the existing buildings to form a refurbished office and dwelling and the erection of one new dwelling. A previous application for demolition of the existing meeting hall and redevelopment of 3 town houses was approved on 14th April 2010 (ref: 09/00945/FUL), but has now expired. The asking price is £200,000. For more information, contact Andrew Granger & Co on 0116 253 8850 or email: leicester@andrewgranger.co.uk

A vote at Harborough District Council on Monday, 10th September 2013 saw the use of space at The Symington Building, as it will be known, in Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough, extended to allow for a greater range of businesses. The decision, which had previously been ‘called-in’ to allow for further discussion, allows the option of the ground floor units being used for retail, financial or professional business, restaurants, cafes, bars – or a mix of these uses. The Symington Building, when it re-opens next year, will accommodate the Harborough District Council headquarters, integrated library and museum, as well as shops and businesses. Councillor Phil King, portfolio holder for planning, said: “This decision does not mean a restaurant or bar, for example, will definitely open in this building, but does give the council more flexibility around how this busy town centre space is used. It is crucial for taxpayers that we make the best use of our assets and this decision allows greater flexibility to do just that.” To find out more about the council offices redevelopment project visit www.harborough.gov.uk/thesymingtonbuilding

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Period property with consent for 2 detached bungalows SINCLAIR Estate Agents are offering for sale a three-bed detached property with planning permission for the erection of 2 detached bungalows to the rear. The property – at 17 Ring Fence, Shepshed, Leicestershire LE12 9HY – occupies a non-estate location within close proximity to Shepshed town centre and all local amenities. The Guide Price is £275,000. For more information, contact Sinclairs on 01509 600610 or email: shepshed@sinclairestateagents. co.uk

Wigston plot: £100k plus KNIGHTSBRIDGE Estate Agents are inviting offers in excess of £100,000 for a building plot at Ravensthorpe Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 3QX.

Harborough District Council

Reduced homes and density ‘masterplan’ moves to next stage A ‘masterplan’, which provides a template of how a key area of the Harborough district should be developed, has taken a step closer to approval. The masterplan, which seeks to limit the number of properties on land to the north west of Market Harborough to a maximum of 1,500 homes and a low density of 25 properties per hectare, was recommended for approval at a special meeting of Harborough District Council’s executive committee on Monday 16 September 2013. Executive committee members said the views of local people had been taken on board and that public consultation events had been crucial in helping shape the masterplan. Councillors listened to representations from the public and community groups at the meeting and, as a result, made further recommendations, with the masterplan now going to Full Council on Monday 7 October 2013 for final approval. The North West Market Harborough Strategic Development Area ‘masterplan’, as it is known, will aim to develop the site as a whole rather than via piecemeal applications. It also focuses on securing the provision of community infrastructure – for example a link road, primary school, multipurpose community building, park and play areas and sports pitches. Once approved, the masterplan will become part of the emerging Local Plan which will go through due process before being adopted by the council at a later date. View the masterplan on the council website at www.harborough.gov.uk/sdamasterplan

Planning permission (ref: 11/00341/FUL) has been granted by Oadby & Wigston Borough Council for the erection of a 4 or 5 bedroom three-storey detached property. For more information, contact Knightsbridge on 0116 288 4888 or visit the website at www. knightsbridge-estates.co.uk

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GASCOINES Estate Agents are offering for sale a building plot with full planning permission for a four-bed detached house at Kirklington Road, Bilsthorpe, Nottinghamshire.

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The asking price is £45,000. For more information, contact Gascoines on 01623 860328 or email: ollerton@gascoines.co (this email address looks wrong but is correct!)

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Vaughan College for sale: £695k INNES ENGLAND are offering for sale the Vaughan College at 156 St Nicholas Circle, Leicester LE1 4LB. The property occupies a prominent frontage to the north side of St Nicholas Circle to the west side of the city’s Inner Ring Road, close to the Highcross Shopping Centre and De Montfort University’s main campus. The buildings comprise the former Vaughan College, a part two-storey and three-storey concrete framed structure situated adjacent to and overlooking Jewry wall, one of Leicester’s most famous landmarks, which was part of the Roman Town’s public baths and is now a scheduled ancient monument. The building is configured in an L-shape with the main pedestrian access from St Nichola Circle. The ground floor of this section houses the city’s Jewry Wall Museum, run by the City Council. The upper floor houses the former college’s main functions, internally configured mostly with nonstructural partitioning to form a reception, main hall, 9 separate offices and teacing rooms of varying sizes, a library, cafeteria area and extensive toilet facilities including separate disabled toilets. The adjoining and interconnected three-storey section provides at basement level an open undercroft car parking area with an adjacent tarmacadam-surfaced open yard with access from Holy Bones, providing parking for around 18 cars. The two floors above provide 4 good-sized seminar classrooms at each level. The estimated total gross floor area amounts to 24,039 sq.feet. The asking price is £695,000 for the freehold with vacant possession, with the exception of the ground floor of the two-storey section which is held by Leicester City Council on an agreement for 999 years at a peppercorn rental. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Paul Watson at Innes England on 0116 255 5455 or email: pwatson@innesengland.com

Melton shop with potential for conversion SHOULERS are offering for sale a spacious three storey end town house and shop situated close to the centre of Melton Mowbray. The property - 1 Regent Street, Melton Mowbray, leics. LE13 1BJ - requires full modernisation and offers great potential for conversion into flats for investment purposes, subject to planning. The Guide Price is £129, 950 and there is no chain. For more information, contact Shoulers on 01664 410166 or visit the website at www.shoulers .co.uk

Housebuilders tell minister ‘we will build more’ • •

Busy ‘Autumn selling season’ expected Help to Buy reservations pass 12500

Major house builders last month met with Housing Minister Mark Prisk to tell him that the demand side mortgage support measures introduced by Government were working and would lead directly to more homes being built. The meeting took place as figures release showed that 12500 reservations have been made through the Government’s Help to Buy scheme up to the end of August. The scheme is well on target to deliver the 74,000 homes intended over the next few years. The figures emerge as the industry enters its traditionally busy autumn selling season. The meeting was an opportunity for the industry to tell the minister how well the mortgage scheme was working; and also discuss what steps could be taken to address the other constraints on supply – the planning system and regulatory costs. Following the meeting Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of the HBF said: ‘Help to Buy’ has been an unqualified success. It is addressing a lack of mortgage availability- the main constraint on the market, and if people can buy, builders can build. With the traditionally busy Autumn house buying period upon us, all the signs are that the next couple of months will see a significant number of people realising their ambition of home ownership. However, if it is to ultimately lead to a significant and sustained increase in housing supply, Ministers still need to act on the other constraints on supply – a lack of land and excessive regulatory costs.” Housing Minister Mark Prisk said: “The housing market has turned a corner since the end of the unsustainable housing boom. There are more first time buyers than at any time since 2007, while housing supply is at its highest level since 2008 and growing at the fastest rate for three years. “As a Government we have worked hard and prioritised limited financial resources to help the housing market through one of its toughest times and create the right conditions for it to flourish. So I’m delighted that developers have pledged to use this momentum to increase output and get Britain building again.” Mark Clare, Chief Executive of Barratt said:“Customer interest in the Help to Buy scheme has been very strong particularly from customers previously locked out of the market by high deposit requirements. Post

the Budget announcement we saw reservation rates increase and partly as a result the number of homes we sold last year was up 20% on two years ago. We are now preparing for further growth and have committed £1 billion to land investment for new homes and we’re also expanding the business by taking on 600 new apprentices and graduates to tackle the skills shortage.’’ Jeff Fairburn, Group Chief Executive of Persimmon said: “Since the introduction of the Help to Buy measures in April we’ve seen a notable increase in customer interest and visitors to our sites, resulting in a stronger level of sales reservations across England. In response we have increased our build activity to meet this increase in demand. If this early interest is maintained, the Help to Buy Scheme will play an important role in enabling the industry to increase the volume of new homes built over the coming months and years. And in addition to helping the housing shortage this will have wider benefits for jobs and the economy – for example Persimmon has already decided to make significant further investment in trade apprentices this year to support the anticipated increase in output” Pete Redfern, Chief Executive of Taylor Wimpey said: “It enables us to build more homes on the sites we have already got open, and also gives us more confidence about investing in future sites and infrastructure which creates more jobs and economic activity locally.”

Help To Buy The Help to Buy scheme announced in the Budget comprises two distinct parts; • Equity Loan – this enables the buyers of new build homes in England to secure a mortgage with at least a 5% deposit. The Government grants an equity loan of up to 20%. The scheme is a successor to the FirstBuy scheme that delivered around 10,000 sales up to April this year. It is expected to deliver 74,000 sales over its three year life. • Mortgage Guarantee – Government proposes to guarantee a portion of lender losses from repossessions on 95% mortgages across the UK housing market from January 2014. The Treasury’s working assumption is that the Guarantee scheme will generate around 190,000 sales per year, equivalent to one fifth of annual UK housing transactions (932,000 in 2012) Read more; https://www.gov.uk/affordable-homeownership-schemes

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Off-plan reservations rising fast in Belgrave Home buyers are snapping up houses before they are even being built at a popular city centre development on Ross Walk, Leicester.

Development site in Marston Trussell – for sale by auction NAYLORS Estate Agents are offering for sale BY AUCTION a development site with consent for three pairs of semi-detached houses. The site – Formerly The Sun Inn, Main Street, Marston Trussell, Northamptonshire – which was formerly a public house, car park and hotel, extends to 0.483 acres. The existing building is a former public house with remnants of the hotel building, part of which has been demolished. Planning consent (ref: DA/2012/0480) has been granted by Daventry District Council for the construction of 6 dwellings and garages and the conversion of the former Sun Inn to a dwelling. There is no Section 106 or off-site contribution required under this consent. The property is for sale by public auction, unless sold beforehand, on Thursday 10th October 2013 at The Coach & Horses, Lubenham – starting at 6pm. The guide price is £450,000-£500,000. For more information, contact Naylors on 01858 450020 or email: sales@naylorsestateagents.com

With all the homes on the current phase of the Belgrave Riverside development now sold, Westleigh Homes have taken the step of releasing the next phase of 33 new homes earlier than anticipated due to the high volume of interest. After experiencing above average levels of visitors keen to purchase, Westleigh are now taking reservations on their new three and four bedroom homes off plan. Sales team member, Markus Young, comments, “Since I started on site last year, the development has consistently been inundated with enquiries, with our office remaining open seven days a week to accommodate the volume of interest we receive. “Help to Buy and recommendations from residents here on the development have really kept demand high and we are thrilled to now be taking reservations for the next phase. This means that anyone looking to buy one of our homes needs to be quick as reservation requests are coming in thick and fast.” Perfect for those wanting to settle down in a spacious home, without the need to move away from the city, the newly released two and three bedroom homes start from £169,950 with a choice of four different home types to choose from. All properties have a high specification and are energy efficient, incorporating high levels on insulation, fuel saving central heating systems and efficient kitchen appliances. Robert Orr, Sales and Marketing Manager for Westleigh Homes, comments, “Our Belgrave Riverside development has been a huge success and has provided for those who want to own a brand new home that remains close to local amenities and, of course, the city itself. Belgrave Riverside is conveniently located off the A607 Belgrave Road and within easy reach of local amenities, Abbey Park and Leicester city centre. To find out more or to take a look at the show home the marketing suite is open 7 days a week 10:30am – 5:30pm and visitors are also invited to speak to a mortgage expert on-site at the weekends. Westleigh Homes builds contemporary new homes across the Midlands from its base in Leicester and designs homes and specifications with modern lifestyles in mind. It ensures its new homes embrace existing buildings, styles and materials, whilst also ensuring the build has a minimal impact on the local environment. For further information about Westleigh New Homes call 0116 277 3324. Alternatively please log on to www.westleighnewhomes.co.uk

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

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

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Of all the martial arts, karaoke inflicts the most pain.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Building plot in Leicester City Centre JAMES SELLICKS Special Projects are offering for sale a building plot adjacent to 11 Yeoman Lane, Leicester with outline planning permission for a six storey building to provide 10 apartments (5 x one-bedroom/ 5 x two-bedroom). Parking is available for 6 cars. Offers in excess of £250,000 are invited. Subject to contract. For sale by informal tender with a closing date 4th October 2013. Please call Mary Stephenson on 01162 8544554 to obtain an informal tender form.

Burbage plot: £130k CONNELLS Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land with full planning permission for a four-bed detached dwelling. The land – at Coventry Road, Burbage, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 2HP – is situated in the heart of Burbage village and has a total plot area of 337 sq.metres (3,627 sq.feet). The asking price is £130,000. For details, contact Connells on 01455 230523 or email: Hinckley@ connells.co.uk

Land for two dwellings in Knighton: £200k KNIGHTSBRIDGE Estate Agents are offering for sale a parcel of building land within the fashionable and highly regarded Leicester suburb of Knighton. The land – at Newmarket Street, Knighton, Leicester LE2 3WQ – has the benefit of planning permission (ref: 20121222) for 2 individual detached properties ( a two-bed and a three-bed), together with off-road parking to the rear. For more information, contact Knightsbridge on 0116 274 5544 or visit the website at www. knightsbridge-estates.co.uk

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Builders’ Problems SOLVED Claiming loss after sub-contractor failed to complete the work Problem: My Company has an issue regarding the employment of a specialist contractor. This specialist contractor carried out some engineering works on our behalf for a major client in central Leicester, but failed to finish and commission the job. When they left site, all our communications were met with a wall of silence. We even told them in a letter that we would have to call in another contractor to complete their work. We eventually engaged another contractor to complete the work and make good the defects subsequently discovered with the installation. Fortunately the client is happy with the overall project, although we are out of pocket by £9,500 as a direct result of the breaches by the initial specialist contractor. How do we go about claiming the loss? We have never used the court system before, despite being in business for over 23 years. What are the pitfalls? I am not looking forward to sorting this mess out via the court system, but I cannot afford to let the sum go.

Mark, Leicester

Response: Hello Mark. Providing you ensure that you keep your claim to below £10,000, the process should be straight forward and reasonably risk free. Firstly, you will need to gather the evidence that demonstrates liability and supports the quantum you will be claiming, and then you should draft and forward to the other party a Letter of Claim. This is the first step to be taken under the Civil Procedure Rules’ Pre-Action Protocol and it gives the other side a set period of time in which to make a response. The purpose of the Protocol is to allow the parties to set out what their respective positions are, identify and narrow the issues with an objective to try and settle the dispute without resorting to formal proceedings. If the other side fails to respond within the time frame, or the dispute fails to settle during the Protocol, then you can issue proceedings via Money Claim Online. Ensuring that your claim is below £10,000 will allow it to be allocated to the Small Claims Track (notwithstanding the other side filing a counter-claim in excess of £10,000). If allocated to the SCT, there are strict rules for the successful party recovering its costs, so if you are looking at DIY proceedings and will not be using any experts, then this is the way to proceed. I would however suggest that you employ a suitably qualified lawyer to draft out the Particulars of Claim, which you should get done for a nominal fixed fee. You should also be aware of the jurisdiction of the Small Claims Court concerning unreasonable behaviour on the part of a party, where an adverse cost order can be made, but this is a rarity. I would also add that the County Courts have mediation facilities which are free for small claims and should be taken up. You are of course at liberty to suggest mediation to the other party even before issue proceedings, although non-court mediation will attract a fee, not least for the mediator and facilities. Lastly, I should also mention another option that is to refer your dispute to statutory adjudication, although this will cost if you engage the services of a representative, plus there is the risk of incurring the adjudicator’s fee, which could be significant. My recommendation therefore is to initially implement the Pre-Action Protocol, followed by Court proceedings, but also utilising the courts mediation service. Good luck. © Michael P. Gerard MSc, PGDipLaw, PGDipBar, FCIOB, MCIArb, MAE The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

Author background Michael is a Barrister, Chartered Builder, Registered Adjudicator & Accredited Expert in quantum and planning matters. He is Managing Director of Michael Gerard & Co www.michael-gerard.co.uk, a company of chartered building consultants and quantity surveyors who provide a specialised service in the areas of construction law, quantum, programming, business recovery and insolvency support to the construction industry. Michael is also a consultant with Silver Shemmings LLP, a London practice of solicitors specialising in construction.

Michael P. Gerard

Former chapel in Ashwell MURRAY Estate Agents are offering for sale a former chapel in need of renovation and refurbishment. The property – at Cottesmore Road, Ashwell, Rutland – has potential for conversion to residential use, subject to obtaining the necessary planning consents. Formerly the Primitive Methodist Church, the 1,000 sq.foot property is of red brick construction under a Rosemary-tiled roof. It dates back to 1915 and retains many of its original features. The Guide price is £110,000. For more information, contact Murrays on 01572 755555 or email: oakham@murrayestateagents.co.uk

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Transformed homes in Ashby available for shared ownership sale An estate in Ashby de la Zouch has been transformed after a £2.4 million project by Sanctuary Group.

SAVILLS are offering for sale a residential development site with Outline Planning Permission for 22 dwellings. The 2.3 acre site – Former Miners’ Offices, Situated off Berry Hill Lane, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 4JU – currently consists of offices, ancillary buildings and associated amenity land. Largely rectangular in shape, the site benefits from established access points to Berry Hill Lane to the north along with open views over parkland to the south. The site has a resolution to grant Outline Planning Permission (ref: 2013/0174/ST) for the erection of 22 dwellings. The outstanding Section 106 agreement is currently being completed by the vendor and includes the following financial contributions: • Off site Affordable Housing provision: £100,000 • Education contribution: £57,257 • Public Open Space contribution: £24,200 The Guide Price for the freehold is £1.3 million. Interested parties should contact Theo Till at Savills Nottingham on 0115 934 8055 ttill@savills.com

Polypipe directors complete punishing Paris cycle to raise cash for Rainbows Directors from Polypipe have completed a 250 mile cycle ride to raise money for the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People in Loughborough. The team completed the journey from its Loughborough and Horncastle sites to the French capital in less than 72 hours, raising more than £14,000 for the hospice. Polypipe Directors and Senior Managers Glen Sabin, Steve Kite, John Moss and Sean Robinson undertook the challenge to support Rainbows, a charity close to the hearts of staff based at the Polypipe’s North Road site in Loughborough.

The housing and care provider has developed 12 new apartments and 14 houses in Malvern Crescent - replacing two blocks of empty flats which were demolished last year. The original dwellings, built in the 1980s, were made up of one bedroom flats and bedsits, and dated in their appearance, were difficult to let. The new development has completely transformed the land, with the new energy efficient homes aesthetically designed in a style that gives a rural village feel to the area. The transformation is also providing the area with a good selection of affordable housing options. In addition to the rental properties, there are four houses that are available for shared ownership. The homes are proving to be a great success, with one of the detached shared ownership houses being reserved from planning and the majority of the rental properties already occupied. One new Malvern Crescent resident described the new development as “brilliant.” She said: “I’ve never been in a house that keeps so warm. The move into our house has made us happier than ever.” David Hughes, North West Leicestershire District Council’s head of regeneration and planning, said: “We welcome this development because it provides much needed, high quality housing. The area looks much better and the scheme means more affordable housing in Ashby. It’s an excellent example of how a little imagination can improve a whole community.” Jonathan Mullins, Sanctuary’s head of development for the Midlands said: “Malvern Crescent is a great example of transformation and a positive way to redevelop the land. Sanctuary is dedicated to providing housing to the people who need it most and this development is no different. These homes, which are available as rental and shared ownership, will provide more affordable living for the residents of Ashby De La Zouch.” Malvern Crescent has been developed in partnership with the Homes and Communities Agency and North West Leicestershire District Council. Lindsey Richards, Head of Area at the HCA, said: “Ensuring that good quality affordable housing is available for people where they want to live is an important priority for us, so we are pleased to have supported the fantastic redevelopment at Malvern Crescent, which will no doubt make a real difference to the local community.” Newton Fallowell estate agents (Tel: 01530 688014) is currently marketing these new homes, with prices ranging from £125,000 for a semi-detached (£62,500 for 50% shared ownership) and £130,000 for a detached property (£65,000 for shared ownership), each with on plot or designated parking.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Grace Road, Aylestone RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

Norwich Road, Stadium Estate RESIDENTIAL

• Two bedroom mid-terrace property • Having gas central heating & double glazing • Let on A.S.T for 6 months from 01/09/13 • Rental Income: £425 p.c.m (£5,100 p.a) • Ideal investment opportunity Price Guide: £65,000 - £75,000

• Two bedroom mid-town house • Recently refurbished • Off road parking • Previously marketed at £120,000 • Ideal for owner occupier, rental investor or first time buyer Price Guide: £85,000 - £95,000

Treasure Close, Glenfield RESIDENTIAL

• Three bedroom semi-detached bungalow • Front, rear & side gardens • Detached garage • Previously marketed at £135,000 • Est. rental income: £595 p.c.m (£7,140 p.a) Price Guide: £115,000 - £125,000

Camborne Close, Wigston Magna RESIDENTIAL

• Three bedroom property • Walking distance of Wigston Centre • Driveway leading to garage • Off road parking • Est. rental income: £575 p.c.m (£6,900 p.a) Price Guide: £100,000 - £120,000

Towle Road, New Parks RESIDENTIAL

• Three bedroom semi-detached property • Off road parking to front • Good sized rear garden • Est. rental income: £550 p.c.m (£6,600 p.a) • Previously marketed at £99,950 Price Guide: £65,000 - £75,000

Sibson Road, Birstall COMMERCIAL

• Retail unit with living accommodation above • Having A5 use could revert to A1 also • Three bedroom flat above • Large garden to rear with patio • Previously marketed at £185,000 Price Guide: £150,000 - £170,000

Cedar Road, Near Evington Road RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

• Eight bedsits & one self contained flat • All well presented internally • Est. full rental income: £37,200 p.a. • High yielding investment (16.5% yield) • Joint Agents: Reliance Properties Price Guide: £225,000 - £250,000

Land R/O Brook Street, Shepshed DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

• Freehold building land • Within residential area • P/P granted for two dwellings • Having two access points • Ideal for developers Price Guide: £60,000 - £65,000

Cavendish Road, Aylestone DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

• Residential development opportunity • Previously having P/P granted for 3 flats • Scheme prepared for 6 flats subject to P/P • Ideal for developers & rental investors Price Guide: £80,000 - £100,000

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Property Auction on Wednesday 16th October 2013 at 5pm At: Leicester City Football Club, The King Power Stadium, Banks Lounge, Filbert Way, Leicester LE2 7FL Wilberforce Road, Off Narborough Road RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

High Street, Lutterworth RESIDENTIAL

Evington Road, Leicester RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT

• Three bedroom palisaded terrace property • Close to De Montfort University & Leicester Royal Infirmary • Let on an A.S.T for 12 months from 01/08/13 • Current rental income: £575 p.c.m (£6,900 p.a) • Est. full rental income: £12,000 p.a (12% yield) Price Guide: £100,000 - £115,000

• Double fronted character property • Five bedrooms comprised over three floors • Ideal family home or rental investment • Suitable for alternative use subject to P/P Price Guide: £130,000 - £150,000

• Two self contained flats • 1x1 bed flat & 1x2 bed flat • Arranged over three floors • G/F flat let at £300 p.c.m • Est. full rental income: £10,200 p.a (when fully let) Price Guide: £125,000 - £135,000

Marriott Drive, Kibworth Harcourt RESIDENTIAL

Marjorie Street, Belgrave RESIDENTIAL

For An Auction Catalogue & Viewing, Contact:

SHONKI BROS ESTATE AGENTS

• Three bedroom detached property • Quiet & peaceful residential location • Spacious accommodation throughout • Fully glazed conservatory • Previously marketed at £229,000 Price Guide: £165,000 - £175,000

• Three bedroom mid-terrace property • Popular residential location • Having private rear yard • Est. rental income: £550 p.c.m (£6,600 p.a) • Previously marketed at £124,950 Price Guide: £100,000 - £115,000

95 NARBOROUGH ROAD, LEICESTER Tel: 0116 255 7573 www.shonkibros.com info@shonkibros.com

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Potential development site in Sherwood FHP Property Consultants are offering for sale a 0.22 acre parcel of suplus land which is suitable for a variety of uses, including residential development, subject to planning. The land – adjacent to The Sherwood Public House, Lloyd Street, Off Mansfield Road, Sherwood, Nottingham NG5 2FS – is currently owned by Enterprise Inns plc and is used for car parking. No planning consent exists on the site at the moment and no enquiries have been made in terms of the development potential with Nottingham City Council. Interested parties should make their own enquiries with the Local Planning Authority, Nottingham City Council, on 0115 915 5555. Offers in excess of £150,000 are required on a ‘Subject to planning’ basis. For more information, contact David Hargreaves at FHP on 07876 396003 or email: davidh@fhp.co.uk

Interest in green apartments rises The rebounding housing market has stimulated rising interest in the environmentally friendly Phoenix Square apartments in Leicester. Specialist sustainable property developer Blueprint has completed sales on several of the energy efficient apartments this summer, leaving just five of the 63 properties available for sale. Alec Hamlin from Blueprint said: “There has been an exceptional level of interest this summer, buyers seem to be attracted by the design quality of the apartments, their green credentials and the appeal of living above the Phoenix café and cinema.” The architect-designed living spaces range in size from onebedroom apartments to three bedroom duplex homes, and no two homes are the same. Phoenix Square is Leicester’s digital media and arts centre, with an independent cinema, café bar and creative businesses.

Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan praises partnership scheme for new housing Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan has visited a former brownfield site to view the progress of a new partnership development that will result in 43 affordable homes for local people. The new £4.9 million scheme on Little Moor Lane is being built by Westleigh Partnership Homes for emh homes, part of emh group, and will provide a range of high quality new homes for different types of households. Funded partly through the Homes and Communities Agency’s Affordable Housing Programme, as well as private investment from emh group, these former BT Openreach premises will be transformed into over 40 new high quality affordable homes comprising 21 two bedroom, 18 three bedrooms and four four bedroom homes, all for local people in housing need. Each home will be built to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3 using Westleigh’s Westframe timber frame system, meaning each property is economic and energy efficient. The homes will be completed in Spring 2014. MP for Loughborough, Nicky Morgan, comments, ““It is fantastic to see work in progress on these 43 new affordable homes from Westleigh Partnership Homes and emh group, especially when it will result in the regeneration of a derelict brownfield site.”

SITE VISIT: Ian Jones Business Development Manager at Westleigh Development, Nicky Morgan MP for Loughborough and Jim Patman, Executive Director Development for emh group I see from my own constituency casework that there is a demand for housing, so schemes like this are very welcome. It is a real boost to the community and the economy and I look forward to seeing the completed development next year.” Ian Jones, Business Development Manager at Westleigh, comments, “We are committed to providing quality housing that will transform and regenerate local areas, including brownfield sites. Therefore, we are delighted to be once again working with emh group to build much-needed affordable housing that will boost the local economy and provide a number of training and employment opportunities.”

Jim Patman Executive Director Development of emh group, added: “We have been working in Charnwood for a number of years, and currently have 500 homes in the Borough. We are delighted to be working with the Borough Council and Westleigh and continuing to meet the ever increasing demand for affordable family homes in the area.” Westleigh Partnership Homes works 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 the website at www.westleigh.co.uk.

Government boost for self-build ‘will increase choice’ says FMB

NEW measures announced by the Government to help more people build their own home will increase choice and affordability in the housing market, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). The measures, announced by Don Foster, the Communities Minister, at the Liberal Democrat Conference, are designed to encourage take-up in the self-build sector, and include guidance for planning authorities to better identify local demand for self-build, and a review of small sites held by the Homes and Communities Agency to identify more land suitable for small developments and self-build projects. Brian Berry, the Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “At a time when more and more people are trying to get on to the housing ladder, any attempt to get the self-build market moving is a positive step forward. We know that the self-build sector is an underdeveloped part of the UK housing market, accounting for only around 10 percent of all new homes, which compares unfavourably with other European countries such as Germany and Ireland, where the figure is 50 percent, and Austria, where it is as high as 80 percent.” Berry continued: “The Government’s proposed new planning guidance will encourage local authorities to accurately assess the level of demand for self-build in their area, which should in turn lead to local plans making better provision for self-build opportunities, increasing the options available to anyone looking for a new home. Local house-builders typically champion choice and customer focus, and will be ideally placed deliver the highquality custom-built homes many people aspire to live in.” Berry concluded: “Any exemption from paying the Community Infrastructure Levy needs to apply to all small developments, not just self-build projects, to ensure that large numbers of smaller sites do not become unviable, further weakening local house-builders and further reducing the capacity of the industry to deliver the uplift in new housing the country as a whole so desperately needs.”

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Leicester City Bestway Holdings Ltd (c/o Agent: Karen Crowder-James, Contour Planning Ltd, Weltech Centre, Ridgeway, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL7 2AA) – Extension of time limit for implementation of planning permission 20100952 for 161 residential units – at land to rear of Bestway Warehouse, 214 Loughborough Road/Bath Street, Leicester. RSG Engineering Company (c/o Agent: Jonah Mastin, TMCS, 65 Stoughton Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4FQ) – Two storey extension at rear of factory – at 111 Parker Drive, Leicester. Mr Milan Sodha (c/o Agent: DT Designs Ltd, 74 Wyvern Avenue, Leicester LE4 7HH) – Change of use from house to 3 self-contained flats plus single storey extension at rear – at 54 Heacham Drive, Leicester. University of Leicester (c/o Agent: GSS Architecture, 35 Headlands, Kettering, Northants. NN15 7ES) – Two storey extension to university gallery – at University of Leicester, Richard Attenborough House, Lancaster Road, Leicester. Mr Daulat Singh (c/o: 6 Oakdene Road, Leicester LE2 6JL) – Extension of time limit for implementation of planning permission 20101296: change of use from industrial to 34 self-contained flats – at 4 Wheat Street, Leicester. RS Properties (c/o Agent: RP Design Ltd, 33 Launde Road, Oadby, Leiecster LE2 4HH) – Change of use from one house to 8 flats & change of use from 2 flats to 4 flats – at 135139 Fosse Road South, Leicester. Stoneygate Court Ltd (c/o Agent: Design Contract Associates, 2A Montague Road, Leicester LE2 1TG) – Four garages to flats – at The Porter’s Lodge, Stoneygate Court, 298 London Road, Leicester. HKS Retail Ltd (c/o Agent: Harvey Jennings, Jennings Design Ltd, York House, Valley Court, Canal Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD1 4SP) – Demolition of existing building, erection of single storey sales building, canopy, petrol pumps, jet wash bay, storage tanks, parking, plus access – at HKS Sandringham Services, Melton Road, Leicester. Goodfellow Estates Ltd (c/o Agent: Walters Architects, Messengers Office, One Ash, Quorn, Leicestershire LE12 8UE) – Erection of 3 dwellings and demolition of garages – at Rear of Ripon Street, 234 London Road, Leicester.

Continued on page 24 ...>

Local compliance advisors celebrate 4 successful years in business A Hinckley-based building compliance consultancy has just celebrated its fourth year in business. Established in September 2009 by Jamie Hunt and Luke Wilson, UK Building Compliance entered the construction market at a difficult economic time, but hard work, excellent service and efficient response times have seen the business go from strength to strength. Jamie Hunt said: “Our initial aim was to provide a service that was affordable and efficient, one that customers could be confident to rely upon, with the emphasis on excellent service levels and quick turnaround times. “We set out to create a company that would be sustainable and scalable nationwide, and we’re pleased to say that most of our goals have been achieved.” Jamie continued: “From a standing start the company now operates nationwide, specialising in ‘Part L’ building regulations and energy assessments. We are proud to say that over 80% of our contracts are generated by repeat business and customer referrals. Visit UK Building Compliance at www.ukbuildingcompliance.co.uk or call 01455 634855.

Leicestershire letting agents and landlords all under one roof An innovative new website which aims to improve the standard of privately rented properties in Leicestershire has been launched. The Homefinder scheme - www.homefinder.uk.com - has been set up for landlords and letting agents in the county, offering support and advice and providing a range of services all under one roof. Landlords and letting agents can advertise their properties for free, and at the same time keep up-to-date with current legislation, have access to documents, videos and toolkits to help manage properties, information on available grants and loans, and free training opportunities. There are already over 70 letting agents signed up and 500 properties on the website, from shared houses to executive homes. It can be viewed in multiple languages, and features include a housing benefit calculator and an online referral form for customers seeking support to remain in their current home or move to an alternative one. Landlords or letting agents looking to advertise their properties on the website can register at www.homefinder.uk.com/accommodation or for further information email housing.options@blaby.gov.uk or call 0116 272 7770.

Leicester plot SETHS Estate Agents are offering for sale a plot of land with planning permission for a ¾ bedroom detached dwelling at Abingdon Road, Leicester. The asking price is £79,950. For details, contact Seths on 0116 273 9090 or email: info@seths.co.uk

Large plot with pony paddock: £500k FINE HOMES Estate Agents are offering for sale a large building plot with a oneacre paddock suitable for keeping a horse or pony. The plot – at Green Farm, Old gate Road, Chesterton, Warwickshire CV33 9LD - currently has detailed planning permission for a detached 5-bedroom house together with a three car garage in an existing stone barn. The plot backs on to agricultural land and has far-reaching views. The asking price is £500,000. Viewing is strictly through the agents. For more information, contact Fine Homes on 01926 888838 or email: info@finehomes. co.uk

Tutbury building plot: £165k guide JOHN GERMAN Estate Agents are offering for sale a superb and attractive freehold building plot extending to 0.182 of an acre with detailed planning consent (ref: P/2013/00565) for the development of a contemporary-style 4-bed detached home with double garage. The plot – fronting Burton Road, Tutbury, Burton upon Trent, Staffs. DE13 9NH – is being offered at a Guide Price of £165,000. For more details, contact John German on 01283 512244 or email: burton@johngerman.co.uk

Industrial unit with yard at Wenlock Way INNES ENGLAND are offering for sale a single storey detached industrial building with an extensive concrete secure gated yard. The property - 33 Wenlock Way, Leicester LE4 9HU - is situated on the Troon Industrial Estate some 4 miles north east of Leicester City Centre. The gross internal floor area is 7,107 sq.feet. Offers in the region of £449,500 are invited for the freehold interest with vacant possession. For more information, contact Steve Scott at Innes England on 0116 255 5455 or email: sscott@innes-england.com

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Continued from page 23 ...> Mr K Parmar (c/o Agent: Kunstler Designs, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RE) – Change of use of ground floor from business to 2 flats – at 12 Western Road, Leicester. Mr C Tank (c/o Agent: Neil McMinn, Ink/Drawn Ltd, 9 Welford Place, Leicester LE1 6ZH) – Change of use of basement and ground floor shop to 2 flats – at 284 Loughborough Road, Leicester. Mr Deepak Sharma (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects, 12 Gower Street, St Matthews Business Centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) – Change of use from office to residential flats – at 1C St Michaels Avenue, Leicester. Mr D Page & Mrs V Holly (c/o Agent: David Granger Design Ltd, The Old Dairy, Mill Street, Packington, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. LE65 1WN) – Residential development for 2 dwellings – at 412 Uppingham Road, Leiecster. William Davis Partnerships (c/o Agent: KPW Architects, 170 Upper New Walk, Leicester LE1 7QA) – Erection of 28 houses – at Former Oakham House Site, Gipsy Lane, Leiecster. Mr Kullar (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Ltd, Unit 12 Gower Street, St Matthews Business centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) – Demolition of building, two storey block at front and single storey block at rear to form 3 flats – at 229 Beatrice Road, Leicester. Queen Street Apartments Ltd (c/o Agent: Harry Butterworth, Hawkins McGowan Architects, The Studio, 33 Cornmill Grove, Wolverhampton WS11 1AH) – Change of use from factory plus five-storey extension to provide 8 studio flats on the first to fourth floors and a management office on the ground floor – at Former Courtauld Factory, 21 Queen Street, Leicester. Kier Partnership Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: RG+P, 130 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7JA) – Residential development of 131 dwellings including access, open space, multiuse games area and equipped play area – at Former Mundella College, Wycombe Road, Leicester. Mr Reza Tarokh (c/o Agent: Trevor Wroughton, Newgrange Associates, 9 Portland Walk, Worcester WR1 2NR) – Demolition of buildings and residential development of 4 flats and 3 houses plus parking and landscaping – at 81-81A Lansdowne Road, Leicester.

Continued on page 26 ...>

Housing planning permissions up 49%

But developers warn increasingly onerous planning conditions are preventing building work starting on sites Figures released in HBF’s latest Housing Pipeline report reveal a 49% year-on-year increase in the number of planning approvals for new homes in the second quarter of 2013. Whilst a fall on Q1, the figure still means there were 77,686 permissions granted in the first six months of the year, a 26% year-onyear increase. The figure though is still well short of the 220,000 per year needed to meet housing demand. The figures mean that the moving annual total, that hit a trough of 117,067 in the 12 months to 2011 Q3, has risen to 156,608, a 34% increase. This is a strong forward indicator of future levels of home building. Undoubtedly the upturn reflects increased applications as a result of earlier Government demand-side measures and an improving mortgage market, as well as the impact of the positive planning principles of the NPPF. But whilst this upward trend is positive, there is increasing industry concern over the planning conditions attached to many permissions that are preventing construction work starting on sites. ‘Planning Conditions’ are set by local authorities upon granting planning permission, with many requirements needing to be met before work starts (so-called ‘pre-commencement’ conditions). Increasingly builders are reporting these conditions, which in some cases can total in excess of a hundred separate items, are becoming more onerous and more numerous and are causing considerable costly delays to construction - sometimes taking years after the permission has been granted to meet satisfactorily. The Government’s Help to Buy scheme resulted in 12,500 reservations in its first five months, really helping to address demand issues, and developers are now

looking to increase supply. But the industry is warning that Local Authorities have got to be realistic about what conditions they attach to a planning permission; whether they are really necessary; or whether they can be discharged later in the development process rather than before development commences, so that house builders can get building. The 37,053 permissions granted in the second quarters was the highest Q2 number since 2008. However, it is still well short of the 55,000 permissions required on average per quarter – 220,000 per year - to meet housing need, or the 54,500 that were being granted on average per quarter during 2006 and 2007. The NPPF contains a robust appeals system that is allowing developers to receive permissions in instances where Local Authorities have not abided by the responsibilities placed on them by the system. This should act as an incentive for them to put proper housing plans in place as soon as possible to ensure they have control over development in their areas, as opposed to allowing ‘planning by appeal’. Speaking today, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of the HBF, said; “The overall trend in residential permissions is very positive. It reflects house builders’ increasing confidence in the market and also the positive principles of the new planning system. With Help to Buy forging ahead strongly and developers looking to increase output, we need to see the increase sustained. “However, at a time when developers are looking to build more much needed homes, we

Development site for 3 houses in Swadlincote HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a development site at Pingle School, Swadlincote, Derbyshire. The site benefits from full planning permission (ref: 9/2012/0416/FM) for the development of 3 three-bedroomed dwellings over two storeys with associated gardens, garages and off-road parking. The development will be made up of one detached property and two semi-detached properties. The Guide Price is £115,000. For more information, contact Howkins & Harrison on 01827 718021 or email: atherstone@howkinsandharrison.co.uk

are increasingly concerned by the conditions attached to many of these permissions that prevent actual work starting on site. Local Authorities must ensure planning conditions are not overly onerous or unrealistic otherwise, despite the success of Help to Buy, the much needed increase in housing supply will be held back. “Despite the increase in permissions granted, we are still well short of the 220,000 permissions required annually to meet housing need and all parties need to work closely together to ensure we see continuous and steady increases moving forward. “Building the homes we need could take millions off social housing waiting lists and enable beleaguered first time buyers to get a foot on the ladder. It could also create half a million new jobs, and give the country a massive and much-needed economic boost.” Allan Wilén, Glenigan’s Economics Director, commented, “Whilst off the high point seen at the end of 2012, the number of approvals remains significantly ahead of a year ago. The current strengthening in housing market activity points to a further potential rise in planning approvals during the second half of the year as housebuilders bring forward sites for development during 2014.” Planning permissions granted now will, in the main, be built over the next three or four years. Around 115,000 homes a year are currently being built in England, against a demand requirement for 220,000 so the need to see a continued and steady increase on the number of permissions granted is quite clear.

If it’s the case that girls tend to marry men like their fathers, you can see why their mothers cry at the weddings. My mate called me up to ask, “What are you up to at the mo?” “Probably failing my driving test,” I told him.

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NHBC foundations app launched to help reduce annual £9m claims NHBC, the leading warranty provider and standards setter for UK house-building, has announced the launch of their first-ever app to aid builders calculate the correct foundation depths when building near trees. It is hoped that the app, which will be available free of charge to all NHBC registered builders, will assist in bringing down foundation related claims, which over the last four years have cost the industry more than £36m, approximately £9m each year. The foundation depth calculator provides builders with an effective field-based tool to assess tree types and required NHBC Standards 4.2 foundation depths via their mobile phone or handheld device. The majority of trees in the UK have a significant radial root system, extending one to one-and-a-half times the height of the tree, meaning that the correct foundation depth is crucial. Explaining the benefits of the depth calculator app, NHBC’s Technical Projects Manager Marc Separovic said: “We are confident that the introduction of the new app will provide builders with detailed and fast technical information which will ultimately help to raise house building standards and reduce the number of claims and subsequent costs of repairs to the industry. “The combination of shrinkable soils and the roots of trees, hedgerows and shrubs present a significant hazard to new homes, which has real potential to affect foundations and damage properties so the new app will play a key role in reducing this threat.” The app is available free of charge on IOS and Windows OS to all NHBC registered builders. Please visit www.nhbc.co.uk/apps for further information.

After 50 years of marriage, my parents have decided to renew their vows of silence.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Continued from page 24 ...>

Wheatsheaf Works launches second phase

Nuffield Leicester Hospital (c/o Agent: Redfern Architecture Ltd, 4 Westminster Close, Bramley, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S66 1WJ) – Single storey MRI suite extension to side of hospital – at Nuffield Hospital, Scraptoft Lane, Leicester.

Mrs Wendy Bell (c/o Agent: MA Design) – Erection of 2 bungalows and associated garages – at 7 Albert Avenue, Sileby, Leics. LE12 7TA. Ms Nora Cotton (c/o Agent: CBP Architects) – Extension of an existing care home building and new wing to provide 7 additional assisted care apartments – at 97 Fosse Way, Syston, Leics. LE7 1NH. Shield Engineering (Syston) Ltd (c/o Agent: Marrons Solicitors) – Site for the erection of 125 dwellings following demolition of industrial buildings – at land at Queniborough Lodge, 1446 Melton Road, Queniborough, Leics. LE7 3FN. Loughborough Endowed Schools (c/o Agent: Studio-G Architecture LLP) – Erection of replacement classroom buildings following demolition of classrooms and refurbishment of gymnasium – at Loughborough Endowed Schools, Burton Walks, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 2DU. Gladman Developments Ltd – Site for the erection of 215 dwellings and creation of two accesses – at Land off Tickow Lane, Shepshed, Leics. Mr I Hallam (c/o Agent: AGB Design Consultants Ltd) – Erection of 3 twobed town houses – at Land adjacent to 2 Tyler Avenue, Loughborough, Leics. Mr Alan Dunsmore (c/o Agent: David Newbold Associates) – Site for the erection of 2 dwellings – at land at the rear of 34 William Street, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3BZ. David Wilson Homes East Midlands & Thurcaston Park Trust (c/o Agent: Bidwells) – Site for the erection of up to 150 dwellings – at land off Barkby Thorpe Lane, Thurmaston, Leics.

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Property Landlord How Not To Do It A brand new book which sets out the pitfalls of being a landlord from one first time property investor, entrepreneur and builder has just been published, helping the thousands of Brits embarking on a buy-to-let business see exactly how not to do it.

Charnwood Mr Nilesh Lakha (c/o Agent: MA Design) – Ground floor change of use from public house to restaurant and creation of 8 new one-bedroom flats – at The Greyhound, 69 Nottingham Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 1ES.

Book

The second phase of homes at the iconic Wheatsheaf Works Boot and Shoe Factory (pictured above) was launched on Saturday 21st September. Urban Rhythm, owned by the Hazelton Group, has transformed one of the site’s Grade II listed former factory buildings into a collection of 27 new homes, including 10 townhouses and 17 apartments. Built in 1891, the Wheatsheaf Works was once the largest shoe factory in the world, but had sat derelict for at least a decade before Urban Rhythm began its £20 million redevelopment of the Knighton Fields site. Richard Hazelton, Commercial Director at The Hazelton Group, said: “We are delighted to be launching the second part of this exciting project and know the cit y’s home buyers will be impressed with the unique homes available at Quarter Two. “We have redeveloped the smaller of the Wheatsheaf Works’ two factory buildings into a number of high quality modern homes, which offer a spectacular blend of old and new. “The mix of two and three-bedroom townhouses and studio, one and twobedroom apartments are completely different for Leicester, as these homes have been built within the old factory building. “As a result they benefit from a number of original features, such as cast iron columns, exposed beams and brick work, and very large windows, which add a real sense of character, while the open-plan living area, high quality kitchen, stylish bathroom and underfloor heating give a very contemporary feel to the homes. “We have also utilised the building’s high ceilings by creating attractive mezzanines within many of the apartments and townhouses, which will really appeal to modern home buyers.

National Empty Homes Loans Fund

Renovation starts after first empty home loan is approved Renovation work has started on the first property to receive a loan from the National Empty Homes Loans Fund. The house in Blyth, Northumberland has been empty for over two years, but following the approval of a loan for £12,000 from the fund, and assistance from Northumberland County Council, full renovation started last month. The house is expected to be let as affordable housing within weeks. The National Empty Homes Loans Fund was launched on 2nd September 2013, with the aim of making loans available to owners of empty homes to bring them into affordable use. Councillor Allan Hepple, policy board member for housing, regeneration and planning at Northumberland County Council said: “Housing services often work with outside agencies to secure additional help for property owners. In this case the private sector team has been able to find some extra financial support to help owners bring some of the empty properties in Northumberland back to habitable standard. In many cases the properties remain empty because owners simply do not have the funds to get the required work done.”

Author Lionel Palatine penned his property manual after years of first hand experience. With record numbers of buy to let mortgages being approved and millions of home owners considering buy to let as a source of second income, Property Landlord How Not To Do It is an indispensable guide packed full of hints, tips and insider knowledge. The book lifts the lid on the complex, unexpected and challenging facets of being a landlord and the difficult task of trying to make money from a property with no previous experience of tenants, leasing and legal responsibilities. Giving the usual facts and figures a miss in favour of down to earth advice, practical, straightforward pointers and a host of easy to apply strategies and action plans, Property Landlord How Not To Do It teaches from real stories in a light hearted and completely accessible manner. Giving the wisdom that comes from first hand experience without the cost of making the mistake, the book is engaging, insightful and wholly practical. Its real life stories of mistakes and lessons for landlords and property investors are taken from author Palatine’s own experiences and make for colourful reading. Designed to accompany investors and new buy-to-let landlords from day one, the book acts as both a textbook and virtual mentor. Newcomers will enjoy the benefit of experience from a seasoned professional who was once in exactly the same boat. Lionel Palatine said, “I wrote this book to help those who wish to use property as a vehicle to financial freedom. Many realise that property is not a get rich scheme and can often end up losing money by making mistakes early on. This book is packed full of my own experiences to make the process easier along the way. “I wanted the reader to come away with five clear things at the end of the book; an understanding of how difficult being a landlord is, knowing the difference between a landlord and a property investor, able to see the more ridiculous side of finding financial freedom, having learnt how to still be a nice person after adversity and importantly, to navigate around expensive mistakes. Property Landlord How Not To Do It is out now priced at £9.97. To find out more visit http://www. palatinepropertysolutions.com/ property-landlord-buy/ or download for Kindle from Amazon.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Continued from page 26 Harrow Estates plc & The Helen Jean Cope Charity (c/o Agent: Pegasus Planning Group) – Site for residential development for up to 170 dwellings – at land south of Nanpantan Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3YE.

Wednesday 2nd October 2013 READINGS - at National Space Centre,Exploration Drive, Leicester LE4 5NS - 6pm start - tel: 0116 222 7575 or email www.auctionhouse. uk.net Thursday 3rd October 2013 W.A.BARNES - at The Towers, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5NG - 3pm start - tel: 01623 554084 - visit: www.wabarnes.co.uk Thursday 10th October 2013 SAVILLS - at The Centenary Suite, Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8020 - visit: www.savills.co.uk/ auctions

De Montfort Housing Society (c/o Agent: Geoff Carter Architects) – Erection of 10 flats – at 2-10 Gladstone Street, Anstey, Leicester LE7 7BT.

Striking curved design

Notts building plot in charming rural setting: £245k asking price

Thursday 17th October 2013 GRAHAM PENNY - The Pedigree Suite, Derby County F.C, Pride Park Stadium, Derby - 11.30am start - tel: 01332 242880 - www.grahampenny. com

Tuesday 29th October 2013 COTTONS - at Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, Birmingham B6 6HE - 11am start - tel: 0121 247 2233 or email: auctions@cottons.co.uk Tuesday 5th November 2013 GRAHAM PENNY - Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park , Nottingham - 11.30am start - tel: 01159 588 702 - www.grahampenny. com Thursday 28th November 2013 SAVILLS - at The Centenary Suite, Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE - 2.30pm start - tel: 0115 934 8020 - visit: www.savills.co.uk/ auctions Wednesday 4th December 2013BAGSHAWS RESIDENTIAL - at Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Grandstand Road, Derby, DE21 6AF - 11.30 start - tel: 01332 361308 - email: auctions.derby@ sequencehome.co.uk - www. bagshawsauctions.co.uk

Hollins Strategic Land LLP (c/o Agent: Sedgwick Associates) – Residential development for up to 270 dwellings – at land off Hathern Road, Shepshed, Leics.

Blaby Mr S Singh (c/o Agent: R Odedra, PDP Ltd, PO Box 10163, Leicester LE5 9HB) – Erection of 4 semidetached dwellings and one detached dwelling including demolition of existing bungalow – at 17B Holmfield Avenue West, Leicester Forest East, Leicestershire LE3 3FE.

Wednesday 23rd October 2013BAGSHAWS RESIDENTIAL - at Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Grandstand Road, Derby, DE21 6AF - 11.30 start - tel: 01332 361308 - email: auctions.derby@ sequencehome.co.uk - www. bagshawsauctions.co.uk

Thursday 24th October 2013 - CPBIGWOOD - at Aston Villa Football Club, Holte Suite, Aston, Birmingham B6 6HE - 11am-6pm - tel: 0121 233 5046 - www.bigwood. uk.com

Peveril Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: Signet Planning) – Erection of 71 dwellings – at land off Seagrave Road, Sileby, Leics.

SMITH & Partners are offering for sale a superb rural village building plot with detailed planning consent for a contemporary home of a striking curved splitlevel design by Allan Joyce Architects. The plot – adjacent to Cover Point, Halloughton Village, Southwell, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0QP – extends to 1,390 sq.metres and is being offered for sale with a price guide of £245,000. Consent has been granted on appeal (ref: APP/B3030/A/12/2187941) for a substantial split-level residence having a gross internal area of 250 sq.metres (2,690 sq.feet). For more information, contact Smith & Partners on 01636 815544 or visit the website at www.smithandpartners.co.uk

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Mr N Myatt (c/o Agent: Malcolm A Goodall, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Erection of 4 semi-detached bungalows (Reserved matters) – at land at rear of 2 & 4 Tournament Road, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8FP. Mr P Ross (c/o Agent: Design S2udio, Unit 12 Gower Street, St Matthews Business Centre, Leicester LE1 3LJ) – Erection of 2 semidetached dwellings – at land adjacent to Station House, Station Street, Whetstone, Leics. LE8 6JS.

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

I hate it when your wife asks you to hold her handbag, and it doesn’t match what you’re wearing.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Continued from page 29

N.W.Leics. Mr & Mrs Charles Meynell (c/o Agent: Maureen James, Montague Architects Ltd, 9 Vernon Street, Derby DE1 1FR) – Change of use of former stable block into 3 residential units – at Breedon Hall, Main Street, Breedon on the Hill, Derby DE73 8AN. Mr John Barnett (c/o: Spring Cottage, Spring Lane, Swannington, Coalville, Leics. LE67 8QQ) – Erection of 10 dwellings – at land adjacent to 41 Station Hill, Swannington, Coalville, Leics. LE67 8RJ Mr Chris Peate (c/o Agent: Aida McManus, AM Planning Consultants Ltd, 17 Derwent Road, Stapenhill, Burton upon Trent, Staffs. DE15 9FR) – Erection of 3 dwellings – at land between 150-162 Battram Road, Ellistown, Coalville, Leics. LE67 1GB. Mr Richard Barby (c/o Agent: Mark Abell, 187 Ratcliffe Road, Sileby, Leics. LE12 7PX) – Demolition of dwelling and garage and erection of 2 detached dwellings with associated garages – at 12 Stinson Way, Whitwick, Coalville, Leics. LE67 5HJ.

Harborough Meadowdale Primary School (c/o Agent: Baily Garner LLP, 55 Charlotte Street, Birmingham B3 1PX) – Erection of a community sports hall – at Meadowdale Primary School, Meadowdale Road, Market Harborough, Leics. Rural Trading Ltd (c/o Agent: Jon Oxley, Concept Zero Architects, Harborough Innovation Centre, Airfield Business Park, Leicester Road, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7WB) – Erection of a village store – at land OS 1331, North Lane, Foxton, Leics. Mr & Mrs Rushforth (c/o Agent: JED Design Ltd, The Drawing Room, 27 Knights End Road, Great Bowden, Leics. LE16 7EY) – Erection of a children’s day care centre – at The Stables, Frolesworth Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. William Davis (c/o Agent: Stephen George & Partners, 170 London Road, Leicester LE2 1ND) – Erection of 149 dwellings and associated garages – at land north of Bill Crane Way, Lutterworth, Leics. Bloor Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: Define, Cornwall Buildings, 45-51 Newhall Street, Birmingham B3 3QR) – Erection of up to 275 dwellings with associated infrastructure, access, open space and landscaping – at land at Uppingham Road, Bushby, Leicester.

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Interesting properties for sale at the October Savills auction The following properties are being offered for sale at the next Savills Property Auction which takes place on Thursday 10th October 2013 at Nottingham Racecourse, Colwick Park, Colwick Road, Nottingham NG2 4BE – starting at 2.30pm: • LOT 4: 2 Catterley Hill Road, Carlton, Nottingham NG3 7AR A traditional chalet style detached bungalow in need of full upgrading and modernisation. Guide price: £60,000-£80,000. • LOT 7: 1 Promenade, Sneinton, Nottingham NG3 1HB A substantial Grade II Listed end of terrace property, offering six bedroom accommodation of approx. 3,500 sq.feet , offered in need of full renovation. Guide price: £90,000-£95,000 • LOT 10: 1519 Mill Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1AY. An attractive town centre retail investment property providing three selfcontained units, fully let and producing £29,780 per annum. Guide price: £295,000. • LOT 14: Land at former Blenheim Public House, Snape Wood Road, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 7GH. Increasingly rare development opportunity with full planning permission to create 4 residential dwellings. Guide price: £60,000-£80,000.

• LOT 19: 1-7 Becket Street, Derby DE1 1HT.

A substantial city centre property comprising nightclub premises, adjoining office building and adjacent venue bar extending in total to 21,867 sq.feet. Guide price: £350,000-£375,000. • LOT 37: 10 Forest Road east, Nottingham NG1 4HH A substantial 4-storey Grade II Listed semidetached property in need of total refurbishment and modernisation. Guide price: £110,000-£125,000. • LOT 38: 26 Parkyn Road, Daybrook, Nottingham NG5 6BG. A traditional 3-bedroomed semi-detached property in need of full upgrading and modernisation. Guide price: £50,000-£55,000. For more information, contact Savills on 0115 934 8080 or visit the website at www.savills.co.uk/auctions

Plans approved for new food park PLANS have been approved for a new Food Park providing specialist business space for food and drink manufacturing businesses in the city. A meeting of Leicester City Council’s planning and development control committee on September 18 gave the green light to the proposals for Leicester Food Park, which will be located on a city council-owned site, off Lewisher Road in the north-east of the city. The £5.6million development will provide 19,250 sq ft of new, high-

quality, bespoke ‘food-grade’ units designed to encourage start-up and smaller grow-on businesses in the food and drink manufacturing industry. The application that was approved is for nine units, ranging in size from 1,000 to 5,000 sq ft, along with a hub office. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This planned development will be a big boost for the area and the city as a whole. We know that tailormade food and drink manufacturing premises are something which are in high demand, and this scheme will meet that need.

“Our Economic Action Plan for the city recognises the importance to the local economy of high-quality food and drink manufacturing, and we hope that this new food park will boost the city’s jobs market and raise investor confidence.” A bid has been submitted to the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for over £3m towards the scheme, with the remaining funding provided by the city council. It is anticipated a decision on funding will be made next month. Based on the current programme, work is due to start on site in January 2014 and the buildings completed by September 2014.

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Spratton plot: £180k RICHARD GREENER Estate Agents are offering for sale a building plot with Outline Planning Consent (ref: DA/2012/0702) for a single dwelling. The plot – at High Street, Spratton, Northamptonshire – has an average depth of 132 feet and a frontage of 57 feet. The site area is 0.17 acres. The asking price is £180,000. For further information, contact Richard Greener on 01604 230222 or email: sales@richardgreener.co.uk

Cottage with 2 potential plots in Derbyshire REEDS RAINS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 17th Century cottage with a planning application submitted for two large building plots. The property – The Old Farm, Cloves Hill, Morley, Derbyshire – occupies approximately 1.5 acres of garden overlooking open countryside. The property retains many original features and benefits from gas central heating. There is a current planning application registered with Amber valley Borough Council to erect 2 large detached properties in the garden to the side of the existing property. Price on application. Contact Reeds Rains on 01332 224560 or email: derby@reedsrains.co.uk

Site for 3 dwellings in Grantham ESCRITT BARRELL & GOLDING are inviting offers in the region of £175,000 for a town centre development site – at the rear of 6-9 Swinegate in Grantham - with full planning permission for three dwellings. One of the dwellings is a conversion of an existing Grade II Listed workshop building, the other two being new buildings on the site of existing garages and outbuildings which are to be demolished. Viewing is strictly by appointment with the selling agents. For more information, contact Escritt Barrell & Golding on 01476 590211 or email: grantham@ebgproperty.co.uk

Should we buy our house as Joint Tenants or Tenants in Common? If you are buying a house with someone else, whether it’s a partner, a family member or a friend, the Carol Cheesman of Cheesmans Accountants advises that you need to consider how best to legally structure the ownership of the property. There are two choices; joint tenants or tenants in common. Joint Tenants: you both own 100% of the property. When one partner dies, the other automatically becomes the sole owner. Tenants in Common: you both own shares of the property, which can be equal or unequal. When one partner dies, their share automatically goes to their beneficiary as specified in their will. Joint tenancy is usually preferred by married couples where the intention is that the property will be passed automatically to the surviving spouse if the other dies. However in order to sell the property, you need the other owner’s permission which can be difficult when a relationship has broken down. Tenants in common is, perhaps, more convenient for unmarried couples, re-married couples, parents and children, brothers and sisters, friends and so on. It allows you to leave your share to a beneficiary other than the surviving owner and you do not need permission from the other owners to sell your share. However, you also need to consider the Inheritance Tax implications. Married couples and civil partners are able to pass their personal IHT thresholds to their spouse upon death, meaning that the surviving partner can bequeath assets worth up to £650,000 tax free. For those not married, tenants in common is beneficial if your share is less than £325,000, as you will avoid IHT when your share passes to your beneficiary. If you are unmarried and joint tenants, then when the property is passed on to your beneficiary, they will need to pay IHT if the whole property is valued at more than £325,000. If you have debts, then the advantages of tenants in common go even further. If, for example, your spouse has outstanding debts upon their death, these will need to be paid out of their estate before assets can be passed to any beneficiaries stated in their will. If you own your property as joint tenants, your partner’s share will be passed automatically to you on their death. This means that their half now becomes part of your estate and creditors can apply for an ‘Insolvency Administration Order’ within five years of the death, which can force a sale of your home in order to pay the outstanding debts. If you are tenants in common, then it is far easier to pay outstanding debts through the deceased’s separate share, rather than as joint tenants where, upon their death, you will own the entire property, which may force a sale. It’s also worth considering the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) implications when you make your decision. SDLT is not payable if a property is owned in equal shares however, if as tenants in common, your shares are not equal and one person wants to buy the others out, then they will have to pay SDLT if the amount paid is over the threshold. SDLT is also applicable if, as tenants in common, one or more of the shareholders wishes to change their percentage of ownership, if the amount is above the threshold. By considering carefully, before signing the ownership paperwork on a new property, exactly how the property will be owned, you can save yourself a lot of time, money and potential heartache in the future.

Carol Cheesman Cheesmans Accountants

Selling plots or development properties?

GET A FREE MENTION! We include brief details of development properties free-of-charge in editorial form. So, if you’re selling an interesting development property, building plot or property for conversion, email details to: info@buildermagazines.co.uk and we’ll give the property a free mention. Tremendous!

Continued from page 30 Ridgeway Primary School (c/o Agent: Leicestershire County Council, County Hall, Championship Way, Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8RE) – Erection of 3-classroom block and formation of play area – at The Ridgeway Primary School, The Ridgeway, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7HQ. Bellway Homes (c/o Agent: CHBC Architects, 4-12 Morton Street, Leamington Spa, Warks. CV32 5SY) – Erection of 130 dwellings, creation of a cemetery and provision of infrastructure – at Leaders Farm, Coventry Road, Lutterworth, Leics. LE17 4JF.

Melton Berkeley Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: Nick Cooper, HSSP Architects, Pera Innovation Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics.) – Extension of time for application 08/00380/FUL for redevelopment to form 3 retail units and 12 two-bed residential units – at 36-44 Thorpe End, Melton Mowbray, Leics. Brooksby Melton College (c/o Agent: Mr. S.Chadwick, Signet Planning, Rowe House, 10 East Parade, Harrogate HG1 5LT) – New educational development comprising multi-purpose buildings, sports hall, new campus access road and associated works, plus 3G sports pitch and extension to Buckingham Centre – at Brooksby Melton College, Hoby Road, Brooksby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. Mrs J Dolan (c/o Agent: F W Keyworth, 5 Adcock Close, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1UU) – Four holiday homes - at Field OS 6700, Main Street, Kirby Bellars, Leics. Projects 2000 Ltd (c/o Agent: Stansgate Planning, 9 The Courtyard, Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warks.) – Conversion of buildings to provide 20 dwellings, erection of 40 new dwelling houses, erection of block of retirement housing (38 dwellings), accesses and parking areas, demolition of Warwick Cottage and 22-24 Ankle Hill and construction of balancing ponds – at War Memorial Hospital, Ankle Hill, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0QL. Mr Colin Gilmore (c/o Agent: Anthony Hancock Estate Agents, 36 Burton Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1AF) – Outline application for 2 semi-detached dwellings – at land adjacent to 27 Ankle Hill, Melton Mowbray, Leics.

Continued on page 34 ...>

Reaching under the couch for something is the closest I’ll ever get to yoga.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Continued from page 33 ...>

Hinckley & Bosworth

Forticrete Masonry specified for new luxury retirement village

Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Tim Farley, Copesticks, 658 Chester Road, Erdington, Birmingham B23 5TE) – Erection of 49 dwellings with landscaped open space – at land off Spinney Drive and south of Brookside, Barlestone, Nuneaton, Warks. Mr Jason Leech (c/o Agent: Malcolm Goodall, The Drawing Room (Architects) Ltd, 130 Moat Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – Demolition of existing factory and erection of 17 dwellings – at 40 High Street, Earl Shilton, Leics. LE9 7DG. Mr David Wilson (c/o Agent: Ryan Astill, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Variation of conditions 13 and 22 of application 13/00223/FUL for the erection of a 5,000 sq.ft. retail unit and 13 dwellings with associated landscaping and servicing – at 24 Station Road, Ratby, Leicester LE6 0JN Mr Richard Gennard (c/o: 49 Main Street, Rotherby, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE14 2LP) – Erection of 11 dwellings – at land south of Pinewood Drive, Markfield, Leics. Paynes Garages Ltd (c/o Agent: Marrons, Meridian South, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE3 2WY) – Erection of 10 dwellings – at land off Paddock Way, Hinckley, Leics.

After being escorted out of Kings Cross station with concussion, I’m beginning to think my Hogwarts acceptance letter was a hoax. I used to be a freelance journalist, but I was useless. Lance is still in prison.

The external façade of the Robinson Court development, at Audley St. Elphin’s Park, has been completed using Forticrete high performance cast stone blocks in three bespoke colours. The cast stone blocks were specified as they seamlessly replicated the existing natural stone finish of St Elphin’s House, the centrepiece of the luxury retirement village in Derbyshire, a strict requirement of the local planning authority. Consisting of 20 one and two bedroom apartments, Robinson Court has been built to complement the heritage of St. Elphin’s House, built from natural stone and dating from the 1820s. It became a prestigious girls’ boarding school in 1904. Working closely with the Audley Retirement and the local planning authority, M2H Architects specified Forticrete’s purposemade cast stone Regency Ashlar blocks for the main body of the external skin of Robinson Court. Varying size blocks up to 600mm in length built in 3 different height courses combined with narrow 5mm mortar joints were used to closely imitate the construction of St. Elphin’s House. Forticrete stone detailing including decorative heads, cills, plinths, string courses, copings and finials were also used to replicate the tradition, quality and aesthetic appeal of the existing natural stone of St. Elphin’s House. To ensure delivery of its Regency Ashlar blocks and stone detailing, in full and on time, Forticrete appointed a Contract Manager to maintain a constant line of communication with both Forticrete internally and main contractors, Cruden Construction Ltd.For more information on Forticrete’s range of Architectural Masonry products, visit www.Forticrete.co.uk or call the technical hotline on: 0800 262136.

Ibstock house with land for 4 houses SINCLAIR Estate Agents are offering for sale a detached house together with residential building land which has the benefit of planning permission (ref: 13/00024/FUL) for 4 dwellings. The property - at Melbourne Road, Ibstock, Leics. - comprises a double fronted detached house with good sized grounds including a coach house to the rear plus residential building land for four dwellings. The planning permission, which was granted on 11th March 2013, is for the erection of 3 fourbedroom detached houses to the field at the side adjoining to 230 Melbourne Road, and for a twobedroom detached bungalow on the land adjoining 3 Linden Close to the rear of 242 Melbourne Road. The Guide price is £500,000. For more information, contact Sinclairs on 01530 838338 or email: coalville@sinclairestateagents.co.uk

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

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

www.grobyspotlight.co.uk www.markfieldherald.co.uk

I’m looking at my laughter lines and thinking... what was ever that funny!

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I just made my hamster a strong coffee. I don’t want him falling asleep at the wheel.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Jeld-Wen Celebrates Timber Trades Journal Award JELD-WEN, the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber windows and doors, is celebrating success after scooping the coveted award for Website of the Year at the Timber Trades Journal (TTJ) Awards 2013. The TTJ Awards, the UK’s premier awards event for the timber and wood products sector, was held at The Savoy in London on Thursday 12 September and hosted Lucy Woodhead, Communications Manager at JELD-WEN, with by broadcaster Huw Alex Dalton (left) and Huw Edwards. Edwards. JELD-WEN has invested heavily in its new website, which launched earlier this year. Marking the manufacturer’s move towards a digital marketing strategy, the new site has been intuitively designed to seamlessly navigate customers through the procurement process. In addition to increasing brand awareness and inspiring visitors to experiment with new styles, the site also delivers tailored messaging to each of the JELD-WEN’s key audiences, keeping trade professionals informed of the latest industry news and updating consumers of new trends and product launches. Stylish, interactive functions on the site, such as the design tool, allow customers to make choices with confidence and the extensive use of video delivers practical information in an easily digestible format. Current video content includes ‘How to install’ demos, ‘Products in use’ clips, fire door advice, product testing videos and timber vs uPVC research results.

Career boost for Raynsway employee Karl Leicestershire commercial property provider Raynsway Properties has promoted one of its long serving estates team employees to a supporting role at its head office thanks to a growing workload. Formerly working as an Estates Assistant, Karl Mulroy will now be based in the comfort of Raynsway’s office, swapping the great Karl Mulroy outdoors to support the Managing Director as Office Assistant. In his new role Karl will be working closely not only with Managing Director, Tom Watkinson, but also with Estates Manager, Tim Mulroy, Karl’s Dad, who has been with Raynsway for 12 years. Karl comments, “My dad and I have a great working relationship and he is the reason I wanted to work for Raynsway all those years ago. To see him rise through the ranks in a well respected local company simply pushes me on to achieve success in my own role.” Tom Watkinson, Managing Director, comments, “We are thrilled to have been able to promote Karl to his new position within the office and he has proved a great asset so far in supporting our new community projects and providing support for our many high profile tenants including Bentley, Dunelm and Interserve.

Brant McNaughton, TTJ Awards judge and director of website design company Ecce Media, said: “A great deal of thought, time and effort had gone into producing a very impressive website. It is clean, clear and concise, the visuals are appealing and features such as the comparison and design tools helped lift it head and shoulders above the competition. All in all a great website – well designed and a worthy winner.” Lucy Woodhead, communications manager at JELD-WEN, said: “We’re thrilled with our award for Website of the Year. It’s such fabulous recognition of the investment we’ve made in improving our website and making JELD-WEN more accessible to both our trade and consumer customers. Since launching in March, we’ve exceeded expectations and have enjoyed some extremely positive feedback from our visitors. We’re looking forward to keeping the industry informed of the latest news from JELD-WEN and supporting our customers in their decision-making processes.” The judging panel comprised Brant McNaughton, Ecce Media, Stephen Powney, TTJ news editor and Alex Dalton, communications director of Daltons Wadkin and sponsor of the award.

Ccf expertise compiled into handy essential product guide Leading interior building products distributor CCF has launched a brand-new product guide. The brochure features over 4000 products and accessories across seven categories, including market leading brands in the interiors and insulation sectors, to ensure customers have access to a complete solution, supplied from stock or delivered nationwide. The guide also includes an extended variety of specialist products to give customers as much choice as possible. Comprising of the best in insulation, drywall, ceiling, partitioning, flooring and fire protection products, the handy A5 sized guide has been designed to be simple to navigate and as informative as possible, including detailed overviews and measurements which cover thicknesses, dimensions, and pack coverage. The brochure is available across the entire CCF branch network. It is also downloadable from http://www.ccfltd.co.uk/.

Saw a flying saucer today. It appeared right after the flying cup that my girlfriend threw at me.

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Formula One Drivers Wordsearch Puzzle

COMPLETE THE WORD SEARCH FOR

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A VIP MEAL FOR 2 PEOPLE FROM THE DELICIOUS SPECIALS MENU AT

Terms & Conditions: VIP meal entitles the winner to a meal for 2 people from the Specials Menu only. Each person is entitled to 2 x courses each (either a starter & main, or main & dessert) from the Specials Menu. Any extras / drinks will remain chargeable. You must bring the invitation on the visit.

If you can find 12 current Formula One Motor Racing Drivers in the Wordsearch grid above, you could win yourself a VIP Meal For Two at Frankie & Benny’s New York Italian Restaurant. All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - 12 current F1 motor racing drivers. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: CHEQUERED FLAG, Leicestershire Builder, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Thursday 17th October 2013. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s Crash Helmet will win the Frankie & Benny’s VIP Meal for Two. Good luck!

N O T L I M A H S I W E L Y U E

O O G X Q M L Y M N M P X Z S I

A V L K B I V Z I A F A N N K S

Z E R E P O I G R E S U O L I B

I M J I R R L K L J Y L T I M D

Q H A U X X W I Y S A D T T I I

R C E G U E P R E O H I U U R I

L S O I B E S Q D R H R B S A Q

H Q J B M Q Y N C G M E N N I J

L S E A T R A H S N C S O A K V

M R S U N N R Q I I M T S I K M

K S E T R K C B P A V A N R O N

A F N E U R L S Y M W R E D N T

M G F P G O A P M O F B J A E U

V Q N G R E B S O R O C I N N O

Here are the 12 Formula One drivers you have to find:

ADRIAN SUTIL • FELIPE MASSA • FERNANDO ALONSO ADRIANSUTIL JENSON BUTTON • KIMI RAIKKONEN • LEWIS HAMILTON FELIPEMASSA MARK WEBBER • NICO ROSBERG • PAUL DI RESTA FERNANDOALONSO JENSONBUTTON ROMAIN GROSJEAN • SEBASTIAN VETTEL • SERGIO PEREZ KIMIRAIKKONEN LEWISHAMILTON Name: .............................................................................................................. MARKWEBBER NICOROSBERG Address: ............................................................................................................. PAULDIRESTA ROMAINGROSJEAN .............................................................................Postcode: ............................. SEBASTIANVETTEL SERGIOPEREZ Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner:

LYNDA FORDER of Saddlers Close, Glenfield Congratulations! Your Frankie & Benny’s Voucher will be with you soon.

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Barn for conversion in Stretton on Dunsmore

Electronic Templating for The Worksurfacing Industry

MARGETTS Estate Agents are offering for sale a barn with planning consent to convert to a single dwelling. The property - at Frankton Lane, Stretton upon Dunsmore, Warwickshire CV23 9JQ - has far-reaching views across the South Warwickshire countryside. Planning consent has been granted for conversion to a single dwelling with approximately 1,500 sq.feet of accommodation with an adjacent paddock in all totalling approximately 1.3 acres. The Guide Price is £275,000. For more information, contact Margetts on 01926 496262 or email: connect@margetts.co.uk

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I woke up in the Police station this morning with no memory of the previous night. I really need to stop drinking on duty.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • OCTOBER 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Topps Tiles apprenticeship scheme highly commended

Designs revealed for second phase of Market scheme

PROPOSALS for a scheme that will replace Leicester’s 1970s indoor market hall have been published by the city council.

Topps Tiles, the UK’s leading tile and wood flooring specialist, has been recognised as one of the UK’s best apprenticeship employers in the regional final of the National Apprenticeship Awards 2013. The Leicester retailer was ‘highly commended’ within the East Midlands BAE Systems Large Employer of the Year category. Laura Morris, Topps Tiles Training and Qualification Team Leader, accepted the award at a special presentation ceremony, hosted at Kelham Hall, Newark. Laura said: “We were ecstatic to be highly commended at the National Apprenticeship Awards. On launching the scheme in November last year, we quickly became a City and Guilds approved centre and training provider. As the leading tile and wood flooring specialist, we’re committed to providing staff with the opportunities for up-skilling and self-development to help boost motivation within the team and ultimately increase retention among our workforce. “We offer the scheme in partnership with Leicester College and currently have 190 colleagues working towards Intermediate or Advanced Retail Apprenticeships, with plans to further grow and develop the programme over the coming years. We’re delighted with the Apprenticeship Award and hope to improve on our success next year.” Topps Tiles was one of over 1,600 entrants for this year’s National Apprenticeship Awards, which celebrates the achievements of the country’s most outstanding apprenticeship employers and their apprentices. The retailer supports a network of apprentices based in Topps Tiles stores across the UK and is committed to helping young people reach their full potential through meaningful and inspiring careers.

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The designs show an attractive open space, offering uninterrupted views of the heritage buildings that surround the market, and an extension to the rear of the Corn Exchange that could provide a stylish new space for a bar or restaurant. Quality stone paving in porphyry – the same material that’s been used in the recent refurbishment of Applegate and that will feature in other Connecting Leicester projects – would help unify the space around the new square, with just the one material being used across the whole area. Contrasting inlays, textures and paving sizes would be used to help define the road, loading bays and pedestrian zones – and the full width of the square would be level to make access easy for wheelchair users or those with pushchairs. Mature trees would be planted to soften the hard landscaping, play equipment and seating would be installed to encourage people to enjoy the space, and a ‘square within a square’ would be created as a fitting setting for a new statue of Alice Hawkins – the suffragette who made many of her speeches from the steps of the Corn Exchange. A terrace on the top of the proposed extension – linked to the currently vacant upper floor of the Corn Exchange – would overlook the square, offering diners views of the attractive buildings within the conservation area and the activity taking place in the square below. “We asked our architects to come up with a masterplan for the market that would increase footfall through the site by creating a new food hall, a new public space and new improved links to the rest of the city centre’s main shopping areas,” said City Mayor Peter Soulsby.

“Work on the new food hall is already under way – and we’re now turning our attention to the second phase of the project. “This scheme will ensure that the market continues to attract visitors and shoppers in the daytime – but I also believe that additional investment from the private sector will help the square become a major new destination for an evening drink or a meal.” The City Mayor announced his plans to invest £7 million in Leicester’s historic market late last year, but delivering the extension to the Corn Exchange was not included in those original proposals. Now the city council has submitted an application for European funding to cover the additional costs of the new build, the required alterations to the upper floors of the Corn Exchange and the necessary road improvements – a total of £2.1 million – recognising the advantages of completing the works as part of the overall scheme. Greig & Stephenson, the architects working with the city council, have come up with a contemporary design for the new build that complements the 19th Century Corn Exchange, without competing with it. The classically proportioned building would be finished in white to match the Corn Exchange, providing an attractive contrast with the varied colours of the porphyry stone paving around it. The designs for the scheme will now go out to public consultation, with a number of events lined up to give people the opportunity to comment. The proposals can also be viewed online at www.leicester. gov.uk/connectingleicester, where comments can also be made. All comments must be received by the end of the day on Wednesday 9 October.

My best childhood memory was falling asleep on the couch and waking up in bed thinking.. “Wow, I can teleport”.

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