MAY 2024 LEICESTERSHIRE BUILDER MAGAZINE ONLINE

LEICESTERSHIRE 

BUILDER 

PROPERTIES • PLANNING APPS • BUILDING NEWS • A FEW JOKES 

MAY 2024 

Friends Conquer Ben Nevis 

for Motor Neurone Disease 

Awareness and Support 

Bright green pallets 

in production as The 

Pallet LOOP ramps 

up for May roll out 

IN AN EXTRAORDINARY show of solidarity and friendship, a 

group of 18 individuals recently achieved an incredible feat by 

conquering Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom. 

Led by Davy Scott (who previously worked at M&O) and is courageously battling 

Motor Neurone Disease (MND), this remarkable group embarked on this challenging 

climb to raise awareness and funds to assist Davy and his family. 

TURN TO PAGE 2 ...> 

THE PALLET LOOP, a member of BSW Group, has 

announced it is manufacturing tens of thousands of 

its distinctive bright green, circular economy pallets 

in readiness for them entering the building materials 

supply chain from May. 

The news follows the landmark announcement, last month, 

that British Gypsum is to become the first building products 

manufacturer to transport its materials on LOOP pallets. 

British Gypsum – one of the most respected brands in British 

construction – will start distributing its bagged plaster and 

accessories on The Pallet LOOP’s green coloured pallets in May, 

with products from its plasterboard range set to follow in July. 

To build its pallet pool, The Pallet LOOP is working with fellow 

BSW Group member Scott Pallets, which has pallet production 

sites at strategic locations around the UK. Pallets are being 

produced at three sites – York, Burton, and Peterborough – and 

fitted with RFID tags, which will enable pallet tracking. 

TURN TO PAGE 2 ...> 

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2 Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MAY 2024 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk 

DAVY SCOTT - from page 1 

The expedition took place on 

5th April 2024, and it was both a 

physical triumph and an affirmation 

of the profound impact friends can 

have in times of adversity. As they 

trekked their way up Ben Nevis, 

Davy and his friends displayed their 

unwavering commitment to making 

a difference in the fight against 

MND. 

Motivated by a shared desire to 

shine a light on Motor Neurone 

Disease, the group established 

a GoFundMe page dedicated to 

raising funds for Davy and his 

family so they can concentrate on 

his health, & making memories 

rather than worry about the cost 

of living. The response has been 

incredibly heartwarming, with 

the community rallying together 

and contributing to a total of 

£19,000, showing the true power of 

compassion and support. 

Throughout the challenging ascent 

of Ben Nevis, the climbers drew 

strength from one another and 

the overwhelming support of their 

community. Despite the physical 

obstacles that lay before them, 

their spirits remained unyielding, 

fuelled by their dedication to raising 

awareness for MND and helping 

Davy and his family during this 

difficult time. 

Justin Middleton, the driving 

force behind this initiative, 

expressed his profound gratitude 

for the support received from 

his friends, as well as the wider 

community. “This climb was 

about far more than just reaching 

the summit,” Justin shared. “It 

was a testament to the power of 

friendship and the determination to 

make a difference. We are deeply 

touched by the support we have 

received so far and hope that our 

efforts can provide meaningful 

assistance to Davy’s family as they 

navigate this journey with Motor 

Neurone Disease.” 

This inspiring story serves as a 

poignant reminder of the strength of 

the human spirit and the boundless 

impact of friendship. The funds 

raised through this endeavour will 

go directly towards supporting Davy 

and his family, providing muchneeded 

assistance during this 

challenging period. 

To join this incredible display 

of friendship and support, 

please visit the GoFundMe 

page dedicated to Davy’s cause 

at https://www.justgiving.com/ 

crowdfunding/justin-middleton- 

3?utm_medium=email&utm_ 

source=ExactTarget&utm_ 

campaign=20240307_. 

Every contribution, no matter the 

size, will help ease the burden 

for Davy and his loved ones, 

demonstrating the power of 

collective compassion in the face of 

adversity. 

The Pallet LOOP - from page 1 

Ahead of its instantly identifiable 

green pallets hitting the supply 

chain, The Pallet LOOP is 

encouraging all pallet recipients 

to sign up for its collections 

service by emailing: setmeup@ 

thepalletloop.com. 

Signing up for pallet collections is 

simple and will enable registered 

companies to access a PayBack 

of up to £4 for every green pallet 

they put back in the LOOP. In 

parallel, The Pallet LOOP will be 

continuing its collection of white 

pallets, which is significantly 

cheaper than disposing of pallets 

via a wood skip. The Pallet 

LOOP’s white pallet collection 

service is already up and running 

nationwide with many large 

housebuilders and principal 

contractors already using the 

scheme. 

Steve Ottaway, Operations 

Director at The Pallet LOOP, 

said: “We are now on the cusp of 

a major change in the way that 

building materials are delivered 

to merchants and building sites 

around the UK – and are grateful 

to British Gypsum for showing 

leadership and becoming the 

first adopter of our circular 

economy scheme. Over the last 

few years, we’ve been liaising 

with key players throughout 

UK construction to discuss the 

benefits of switching to a more 

sustainable pallet distribution 

model. From the outset, everyone 

agreed change was needed and 

that the current linear way of 

working is out of kilter with the 

industry’s net carbon zero and 

zero waste objective. Change 

is now definitely on its way, and 

we can’t wait to see our green, 

branded pallets reaching and 

being recovered from building 

sites, merchant yards and 

distribution centres nationwide.” 

Scott Grant, Managing Director 

at Scott Pallets, said: “This is a 

huge step for the construction 

industry, and underlines the power 

of collaboration. By working 

together we can significantly 

reduce waste, save money 

and achieve our sustainability 

targets. British Gypsum have 

showcased a real commitment 

to drive positive change, and we 

are fully committed to maintaining 

the momentum. We have full 

confidence in the LOOP model, 

especially with the backing of 

Scott Pallets and the wider BSW 

Group, who are determined 

to realise the potential of the 

business.” 

Registering for collections 

with The Pallet LOOP is easy. 

Companies interested in using 

the service and benefiting from 

the LOOP pallet PayBack of up to 

£4 per green pallet, should email: 

setmeup@thepalletloop.com to 

kick start the account creation 

process. Once companies are set 

up, arranging collections of both 

green and white pallets is easy, 

with two service levels available: 

a standard ten-day or a rapid 72- 

hour pick up service. Users of 

The Pallet LOOP will also receive 

access to a special reporting 

platform, where they can view and 

download information about the 

number of pallets returned and the 

money saved on collections versus 

disposal via a skip. The system 

also provides information about the 

amount of carbon saved and trees 

repurposed, which can be used in 

sustainability reporting. 

To help customers understand the 

sign-up process, The Pallet LOOP 

has created a short onboarding 

video – that explains how to get 

in the LOOP in a series of simple 

steps: https://www.youtube.com/ 

watch?v=JAAmrYk-2P0&t=1s 

Site for a substantial six-bed 

With garaging, stables and workshop 

family home in Newbold Verdon 

FISHER GERMAN are offering for sale an exceptional 

opportunity to construct a six-bedroom family home, 

complemented by a one-bedroom annexe, garaging, a 

workshop and stores, stabling and paddock land, all set 

within grounds of 8.76 acres. 

The Site for Brascote House is located at Brascote, near Newbold Verdon, 

Leicestershire LE9 9LE. 

Planning permission under reference 22/00573/FUL has been granted. 

Guide price: £495,000. 

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Fisher German on 

01530 410840 or email: centralagency@fishergerman.co.uk 

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Another Five Star Performance 

from William Davis Homes 

REGIONAL 

HOUSEBUILDER 

William Davis Homes 

has secured the 

industry’s prestigious 

‘5 star’ status for 

the NINTH year in 

row – confirming the 

company’s reputation 

for excellence. 

Building on previous 

success, the Loughboroughbased 

company has 

received another 

overwhelmingly positive 

score from its customers. 

Based on independent 

customer satisfaction 

surveys, the sought-after 

5 Star Award is the highest 

ranking given by the Home 

Builders Federation. It 

William Davis Homes Managing Director Guy Higgins holds the HBF 

Five Star Award 2024 joined by delighted employees. 

reflects every aspect of the company, from the outstanding quality of its homes to excellent customer 

service. The accolade is only given to companies where more than ninety percent of their customers would 

recommend them to a friend. 

Guy Higgins, Managing Director of William Davis Homes, said: “We’re proud and delighted to have again 

received such high praise from our customers. 

“Winning this award for a ninth successive year is a fantastic achievement. It shows how our entire team 

has continued to achieve high standards and first-class service over the past year.” 

Building land for sale in Sawley 

ROBERT ELLIS Estate Agents 

are offering for sale a site 

with planning permission 

(ref: ERE\1122\0063) 

for a development of four 

apartments. 

The land – at Roosevelt Avenue, 

Sawley, Nottingham NG10 3GD – 

is being offered at a price guide of 

£130,000-£140,000. 

Contact Mark Philpott at Robert Ellis Building on 0115 Land, 946 1818 Roosevelt or email: Avenue, 

longeaton@robertellis.co.uk 

Sawley, Nottingham 

build. For more information contact Nick Bonfield at Bentons on 

NG10 

nick@bentons.co.uk 

3GD 

or 07794157718 

Extra Information 

Site for nine homes in Ravenstone 

https://check-long-term-flood-risk.service.gov.uk/postcode 

BENTONS Estate 

Agents are 

offering for sale 

a development 

site with planning 

consent (ref: 

22/00222/FULM) 

for nine dwellings 

comprising three 

three-bed detached 

bungalows, three 

five-bed detached 

houses and three 

 

four-bed detached houses. 

The existing property 11 Fosbrooke Close has been demolished and therefore subject to final ratification from the local authority North West Leicestershire District Council, the development is ready to 

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Price Guide £130-140,000 

Freehold 

A SITE ON WHICH TO BUILD FOUR, 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS LOCATED ON ROOSEVELT AVENUE, 

SAWLEY, NOTTINGHAM. 

This is a level site on which Planning Permission has been obtained to build a development of four apartments 

arranged over two floors. 

The site is situated close to Long Eaton station and all the shops provided by Sawley and all the amenities and 

facilities found in Long Eaton are only a short drive away. 

The land is being sold with the benefit of Planning Permission - Ref ERE\1122\0063 which was granted in January 

2023. 

The accommodation provided in each apartment to be built will include a hallway, open plan lounge/sitting room 

with a kitchen area off, two bedrooms and a bathroom. There will be parking provided at the rear of the 

development for each apartment and there will be communal gardens and a refuse bin area which will be 

maintained by the management company which will be established to look after the communal areas, building 

insurance etc. 

For more information about this development site, contact Mark Philpott on Robert Ellis 0115 946 1818. 

The 2.24 acre site – at 11 Fosbrooke Close, Ravenstone, Near 

Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 2AB – is being offered at a Guide Price of 

0115 946 1818 

£1,450,000. Contact Nick Bonfield at Bentons on 07794 157718 or email: 

nick@bentons.co.uk 

Breedon snaps 

up third road 

surfacing 

contractor 

AS REPORTED in 

Construction Enquirer, 

materials supplier Breedon 

has bought Midlands 

road surfacing contractor 

Phoenix as it continues 

to build up its Surfacing 

Solutions operation. 

Phoenix is one of the Midlands’ 

leading independent surfacing 

contractors and 

merchanting 

businesses 

Phoenix is one of 

the Midlands’ leading independent 

surfacing contractors and 

merchanting businesses 

The latest deal follows the 

successful integration of Minster 

Surfacing last year, and the 2022 

acquisition of Thomas Bow, a 

surfacing and civil engineering 

contractor based in the East 

Midlands. 

With a £24m annual turnover, 

Phoenix Surfacing brings over 30 

years of experience in the design 

and delivery of highways and 

infrastructure projects. 

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‘Growth from the Ground Up’ 

FMB calls for Cabinet 

Minister for Housing 

A DEDICATED Secretary of State for Housing is needed to 

tackle the growing housing crisis as demonstrated by the 

falling number of new homes being built and the failure 

to retrofit at scale our existing 29 million homes, says 

the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in its General 

Election Manifesto, ‘Growth from the Ground Up’ which 

will was launched on 15th April 2024 in Parliament. 

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “As we approach the 

General Election the new government needs to address the growing 

housing crisis if it is to stimulate economic growth. Without an adequate 

supply of homes people can’t move freely, which stifles growth and 

opportunities. The FMB’s General Election manifesto calls on the new 

government to take urgent steps to boost house building rates; tackle 

the ongoing skills crisis in construction; support the rollout of energy 

efficiency upgrades to existing homes; and introduce a scheme to set a 

minimum competency level for builders.” 

Berry continued: “Housing delivery requires a competent and available 

workforce, which is why we’re calling for clear pathways into the building 

industry to help professionalise and boost the image of the industry so 

that a new generation of people can join the construction sector. The next 

government should also ensure that the building profession finally rids 

itself of cowboy builders. It’s not right that anyone can call themselves a 

builder without any minimum level of competence, therefore we want to 

see the new government to work with the industry to make this a reality.” 

Berry concluded: “The FMB’s manifesto sets out a comprehensive set of 

policies that will help builders drive long-term growth. Helping to deliver 

positive change in our industry is crucial to delivering sustainable longterm 

economic growth for the UK. The FMB is showing that local builders, 

who are too often forgotten about by politicians, are part of the solution to 

creating a more dynamic country.” 

Manifesto Key Asks for Government 

Housing 

Introduce dedicated planning 

resources for small house builders 

in local authorities and set up 

developer forums. 

Unlock small sites by ensuring 

that provisions in the NPPF are 

being followed at local level. 

Create a new dedicated housing 

department with a Secretary of 

State for Housing. 

Skills 

Produce a construction skills plan 

to set out a long-term delivery 

schedule for vocational skills. 

Set clear competence standards 

for retrofitting work to help 

guide current and future training 

provision. 

To work with industry to create 

clear training pathways for 

prospective builders, which will 

help professionalise the sector. 

Energy Efficiency 

Introduce a long-term strategy 

mapping out the steps required to 

retrofit the UK’s existing homes. 

Develop industry and consumer 

incentives to kick start a thriving 

retrofit construction sector. 

Standards 

To work with industry to introduce 

a licensing scheme for building 

firms and sole traders operating 

in the repair, maintenance and 

improvement (RMI) sector. 

Business Resilience 

Introduce a national scrappage 

scheme to coincide with the rise 

of vehicle emission zones. 

Reduce VAT on RMI work 

to boost small builders and 

encourage consumers to improve 

their homes by making them 

more energy efficient. 

Development site for sale in the 

centre of Loughborough 

For Sale 

PEPPERDINE & Freckingham Development Estate siteAgents are offering for 

sale a development 5 Granby site Street, at 5 Loughborough, Granby Street, LE11 3DU Loughborough, 

Leicestershire LE11 3DU. 

The property benefits from outline planning permission for a 4 storey 

property Development consisting site of: in Loughborough • 94m2 Double fronted Retail 

Unit facing Granby Street 

town centre - Guide Price £425,000 

• a Retail unit and 1 bed apartment to • the 4 x 1 Ground bedroom and Floor 5 x 2 

bedroom apartments over 4 

• Retail 3 Apartments Unit plus 9 Apartments (2 x 2 bed over and 1 x 1 bed) floors to the First Floor, 

• 4 floors 3 Apartments - Total 570 (2 Sq x m 

• Outline Planning permission 

2 bed and 1 x 1 bed) 

Granted 

to the Second Floor 

• 

• 2 Apartments (1 x 2 bed and 1 x 1 bed) 60m to from the Cattle Third Market Floor. Retail 

240 sq m 

Outlets 

Plans (2,583.34 and details sq ft) are available upon request. • Car Parks Nearby 

Guide Price: £425,000. 

For more information, contact Pepperdine & Freckingham on 01664 

4313330 or visit www.pandfcommercial.com 

01664 431330 pandfcommercial.com 

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Single building plot for sale in 

Walton on the Wolds 

THE AVENUE Estate Agents are offering for sale a single 

building plot with planning permission (ref: P/22/1559/2) 

for a two storey detached residence of three/four 

bedrooms. 

The plot – in Black Lane, Walton on the Wolds, Loughborough, Leics. 

LE12 8HN – is being offered at a Guide Price of £175,000. 

For more information, contact Jake Brogden at The Avenue on 01530 

682248 or visit the website at www.theavenue.co.uk 

Development opportunity with 

expired consent in Newhall 

ASHLEY ADAMS 

Estate Agents 

are offering for 

sale a potential 

development 

opportunity 

comprising a 

hairdresser’s 

salon, adjacent 

car park and 

area of land 

to the rear, at 

High Street, 

Newhall, Near 

Swadlincote, Derby. 

Historic planning permission (ref: 9/2016/0931) was granted in September 

2016 for three town houses and two apartments with car parking, but this 

has now expired. 

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For further details, contact Ashley Adams on 01332 865 568 or visit the 

website at www.ashleyadams.co.uk 

RICS UK Residential Survey, March 2024 

Marching ahead: Buyer 

demand puts spring in 

the step of the housing 

market share 

THE LATEST RICS UK Residential Survey results 

(March 2024) show a steady improvement 

in sentiment, with buyer demand and sales 

expectations going forward seeing a rise in positivity. 

Meanwhile, stability in house prices has also been 

reported. 

According to the survey, buyer demand 

has continued to rise, with a net balance 

of +8% of respondents citing an increase 

in new buyer enquiries during March, 

making this the most positive result 

since February 2022. 

On the property supply front, the flow 

of new listings coming onto the sales 

market increased for a fourth successive month, with a net balance of 

+13% of respondents noticing a pick-up in new instructions in March. 

Looking at expectations, respondents predict further improvement 

in activity over the coming months, with a net balance of +13% of 

respondents predicting sales volumes rising in the next three months, 

compared to a reading of +6% previously. Similarly, looking ahead to the 

next twelve-months, a net balance of +46% of respondents predict sales 

activity rising (up from +42% in February). 

Interestingly, house price trends have grown less negative for the seventh 

month in a row, rising from a net balance of -67% in September 2023 to 

-4% in March. This suggests a stable picture is now in place for house 

prices across the UK. 

Moving across to the lettings market, the question relating to tenant 

demand remained modestly positive in March, at a net balance of +19 (+16 

last time round). On the opposite side, landlord instructions once again 

show a weak net balance reading of -19. Consequently, +34% of survey 

respondents still expect rental prices to rise in the next three months. 

At the beginning of April, the UK government’s ‘Levelling Up, Housing 

and Communities (LUHC) Committee’ announced the launch of an 

inquiry into the home buying and selling process, which will look at if 

the current processes are fit for purpose and what can be done to make 

improvements. 

RICS Senior Public Affairs Officer, Sam Rees, commented: “As the 

activity in the housing market increases, we welcome the inquiry into how 

the home buying process can be improved for consumers. 

“RICS members working as agents and surveyors play a vital part in 

providing professional advice, ensuring that consumers are well informed 

on what for many is the most expensive purchase they will make. Their 

expertise will help shape the RICS recommendations and evidence to the 

inquiry committee this month. 

“As a founding member of the Digital Property Market Steering Group, 

we are already working across the sector to identify ways that consumers 

and industry professionals can have access to the necessary information 

needed to buy and sell a home, reducing fall throughs and transaction 

times.” 

Tarrant Parsons, Senior Economist, RICS, comments: “Demand 

continues to recover gradually across the UK housing market, with new 

buyer enquiries rising for a third month in succession according to the 

latest survey feedback. 

“With the inflation backdrop turning a little less difficult of late, this has 

led to expectations that the Bank of England will be able to start lowering 

interest rates later in the year. This should continue to support the market 

to a certain degree going forward. 

“In keeping with this, near-term sales expectations point to an improving 

outlook, albeit the scope for an acceleration in activity will still be relatively 

limited given mortgage rates are set to remain much higher than in 

2020/21”. 

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Garden plot in Wollaton Village 

ROBERT 

ELLIS Estate 

Agents are 

offering 

for sale a 

garden plot 

in the heart 

of Wollaton 

Village with 

outline 

planning 

permission 

for a single 

1½ storey 

dwelling. 

LAND TO THE REAR OF Land to the rear of 770 Wollaton Road, Wollaton, 

Nottingham, NG8 2AP 

The 700 sq. metre plot – at the rear of 770 Wollaton Road, Wollaton, 

Nottingham NG8 2AP – is accessed via a shared driveway at the side of 

the existing property. 

Price: £500,000. Contact Robert Ellis on 0115 949 0044 or email: 

stapleford@robertellis.co.uk 

£500,000 Freehold 

Atherstone plot: £175k Guide 

0115 949 0044 

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a building 

plot with planning permission (refs: PAP/2021/0155 and 

APP/R3705/W/22/3309274) for a four-bed detached 

property of 2,280 sq. feet. 

The 641 sq. metre plot – at the rear of 79 Witherley Road, Atherstone, 

Warwickshire CV9 1NA – will be accessed from Nursery Road. 


Call Howkins & Harrison on 01827 718021 or email: atherstone@ 

howkinsandharrison.co.uk 

Bellway team helps tidy the 

grounds at Melton Church 

A TEAM of volunteers 

from Bellway went on a 

mission to help clear up the 

grounds at Melton Mowbray 

Baptist Church. 

Five members of staff from 

Bellway East Midlands, which is 

building new homes at Roman 

Gate just around the corner, picked 

up tree loppers, spades and rakes 

to assist in the clean-up job at the 

church in Leicester Road. 

THE BELLWAY TEAM: left to 

right Ayesha Broome, Petra 

Mason, Andrew Pollard, the Rev 

Sam Dunn, Mick Littlewood and 

Ashley Woodman 

The volunteers cleared out 

shrubbery from a footpath and 

moved soil and debris from around 

the perimeter of the church. 

Bellway East Midlands is building 

217 new homes at Roman Gate, off 

Leicester Road, Melton Mowbray. 

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Construction begins at 

Leicestershire’s first 

GARDEN VILLAGE 

Leicestershire homebuilder 

gifts £1,500 to help charity 

empower amputees 

L-R: Steve Kelly, Director of Growth Management and Steve 

Keenan, Construction Director at Cora, Mayor of Charnwood 

Cllr Margaret Smidowicz JP, Jason Glover, Operations Director 

at Davidsons, Katy Beswick, Area Sales Director, James Wilson, 

Managing Director at Davidsons (Credit: S17 Photography) 

BARRATT HOMES has made a £1,500 donation to The Sian 

Green Foundation, a Leicester-based charity that supports 

amputees and helps to fund running blades for individuals 

that want to be active. 

Through the provision of funding for prosthetics, the charity strives to 

ensure that amputees are able to reclaim their independence, mobility, and 

quality of life. The contribution from Leicestershire housebuilder, Barratt 

Homes, will fully fund a single leg amputee to receive a running blade. 

Sian Lord, Charity Director at The Sian Green Foundation, said: “We 

believe that no amputee should be denied access to the prosthetics they 

need due to financial constraints. 

“The work we do is so important to the disability community as being 

disabled can be an isolating place, especially if you become disabled later 

in life. Our funding enables individuals to join different groups such as 

running clubs, the gym and fitness classes. It’s giving them a chance to feel 

included. 

“From everyone at The Sian Green Foundation, we just want to say a 

huge thank you to Barratt Homes for the donation. It will make such a huge 

difference in someone’s life.” 

Sian founded the charity following her own experience, after a devastating 

accident in New York severed her left foot and ultimately resulted in her 

getting her own prosthetic. 

The charity works in partnership with Levitate, which provides a highquality 

range of products and knowledge for the benefit of clients across the 

United Kingdom. 

Barratt Homes’ donation was made as part of its Community Fund scheme 

via The Barratt Foundation, which is run by its parent company, Barratt 

Developments. It is designed to support national and local charities, large 

and small, across the areas in which the housebuilder operates. 

CONSTRUCTION has started at Leicestershire’s first 

Garden Village, Broadnook. 

Announcing the launch of construction, the developers have unveiled a 

new roadside billboard as well as the installation of Hollywood-style 9ft 

lettering made from corten steel. 

Raising a glass of locally grown Rothley sparkling wine was the Mayor of 

Charnwood, Councillor Margaret Smidowicz, alongside James Wilson, 

Managing Director of Davidsons Homes, and Steve Keenan, Construction 

Director at Cora Homes. 

The creation of the 

new Garden Village 

includes plans for 

car-free zones, cycle 

paths, village square, 

community nursery 

and primary school, 

enterprise zones, 

allotments and open 

green spaces that will 

connect residents to 

the local landscape. 

The project is 

backed by an 

investment of £32.6 

million – of which 

Broadnook is between Birstall and Rothley 

over £17 million is being invested into local schools – creating more than 

1,900 homes ranging from one to five bedrooms. 

Taking its name from a local ancient spinney that runs through the 

site, Broadnook promises tree lined walks, parks, allotments, wildflower 

meadows, play areas, landscaped garden spaces and sports pitches. More 

than 50 per cent of Broadnook Garden Village will be devoted to green 

spaces. 

Broadnook Garden Village will offer modern amenities, including plans 

for a community primary school, retail shops, care facilities and a new GP 

surgery. The village centre and amenities will, it is hoped, minimise the 

need for unnecessary use of a car within the Broadnook village. 

It is expected that the Garden Village’s first residents will be welcomed in 

autumn 2024. 

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Each party will be responsible for their own costs. 


Will Labour be the party to 

put an end to PLANNING 

UNCERTAINTY? 

THE LABOUR PARTY has announced that they will be bringing forward ‘grey 

belt’ classifications on some green belt sites that are appropriate for release 

or not green, and instilling ‘Golden Rules’ alongside them to secure planning 

certainty and good placemaking. 

Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the 

National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: 

“Prioritising grey belt and pairing it with golden 

rules would ensure greenspace loss is mitigated, 

vital supporting infrastructure is delivered and 

both builders and local people getting planning 

and placemaking certainty. It’s a win for all 

parties which is why we support it.” 

Labour’s five ‘Golden Rules’ are: 

• Brownfield first 

• Grey belt second 

• Affordable homes 

• Boost public services and infrastructure 

• Protect genuine green space 

The focus will be on ensuring grey belt sites 

deliver as many community benefits as possible, 

such as schools and GP surgeries, with local 

leaders, rather than only quangos, deciding what 

is needed. 

Affordable housing targets will be strengthened, 

and developments should serve to increase 

access to nature, so that housebuilding and 

nature are compatible. 

Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Policy, and 

Market Insight at the NFB and House 

Builders Association (HBA), said: “The 

devil will always be in the detail, but Labour 

appears to understand that placemaking 

requires input and support from all quarters 

and that the housebuilder’s job is to build 

the homes, not control what infrastructure is 

required, how offsite nature links up to a new 

development and why a site is allocated for 

new homes. 

“A grey belt also suggests some greenbelt 

reassessment, something even Conservative 

backbenchers have been calling for, but the 

Government keeps dismissing. 

“Alongside other announcements and 

discussions, such as reforming compulsory 

purchase and having more onsite 

biodiversity opportunities, it feels as though 

we have a political party which understands 

the problems planning uncertainty causes 

for housebuilders, communities, nature, and 

society at large.” 

GUIDE PRICE 

Offers are invited over £850,000. We are advised that the purchase price will be 

subject to VAT. The vendors reserve the right to set a date for the submission of bids. 

Former Braunston 

in Rutland pub with 

consent for 4 dwellings 

VIEWINGS 

Viewings by appointment only. All enquiries to First City ‘The Property Consultancy’ 

on 01902 710999 quoting reference 5076. Ask for Christopher Bywater 

chris@firstcity.co.uk 

SUBJECT TO CONTRACT 

FIRST CITY are offering for sale The 

Former Old Plough, Oakham Road, 

Braunston in Rutland LE15 8QY. 

Planning permission (ref: 2012/1421/FUL) was 

granted for change of use and conversion of The Old 

Plough to create one four-bedroom dwelling and one 

three-bedroom dwelling together with the erection of 

two dwellings in the car park. 


For more information, or to arrange a viewing, 

contact Christopher Bywater at First City Property 

Consultancy on 01902 710999, quoting reference 

5706, or email: chris@firstcity.co.uk 

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Five deals complete at 

£23m urban logistics 

development near Leicester 

FIVE TRANSACTIONS have taken place at Genesis Park in 

South Wigston, near Leicester, including a 6,000 sq ft unit 

to healthcare automation solutions and service provider 

Deenova. 

Genesis Park is a 128,180 sq ft urban logistics scheme delivered and 

owned by developer Chancerygate and comprises 15 units ranging 

between 4,800 sq ft to 18,570 sq ft. It has a gross development value in 

excess of £23m. for over 20 years 

Supplying the East Midlands 

Deenova is a supplier of combined robotic and automation solutions for 

closed loop medications and medical Free devices advice traceability in the healthcare 

industry. In the UK, it works with the NHS to deliver pharmacy automation 

solutions which simplify the management and no of medications obligation and medical 

devices. 

quotations 

The company has signed a 15-year lease on the unit. Deenova’s other 

UK office is located in East Sussex and it also has offices in Italy, Spain, 

France and Malta. 

In addition to the letting to Deenova, the unit has also been sold to 

Sandpiper Formulations Limited Pension Scheme for an undisclosed sum. 

Labour’s ‘Grey Belt’ 

proposal offers hope to 

unlock small sites for 

new homes, says FMB 

THE LABOUR PARTY’S proposal to introduce five ‘golden 

rules’ for ‘Grey Belt’ development is an important initiative 

to help deliver more homes, says the Federation of Master 

Builders (FMB) 


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View the progress of the publication and position of your advert online visit * ... http://s 

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB commented: “The UK is 

experiencing a growing housing crisis and brownfield sites alone are 

insufficient to tackle the scale of the challenge that we face. While 

brownfield land should be prioritised, introducing new measures to create 

PELHAM JAMES Estate Agents are offering for sale a 

more buildable land and is vital, 

Please 

particularly 

tick 

small 

one 

sites 

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which 

thecan be used Approved freehold property for printing 

with full planning or permission Amendments 

(ref: 

by local house builders, as this will boxes help to and create sign more below diverse, quality (Proceed, #NE/23/00739/FUL) no amendments for required) the development (I of require a luxury a further proo 

housing.’ 

five bedroom home, extending over 3,200 sq.feet, with 

Berry concluded: “More detail is needed about the proposal, particularly breathtaking views over rolling countryside. 

as to how DECLARATION: ‘poor-quality and ugly I/We areas’ being are to be classified as Grey Belt. SignatureThe property – Black Barn, Wakerley Road, Harringworth Print name– occupies a 

However, we know that many small sites in Green Belt areas, such as 

authorised, approve the above advert 

plot of approximately 0.44 of an acre, with additional land available under 

disused car parks and petrol stations, would be perfectly suitable for 

separate negotiation. 

housing. for Unlocking printing small and sites acknowledge would present significant the Terms opportunities, and 


these proposals & Conditions must be supported of the proofing with increased procedure funding to empower local 

authority planning departments to support micro and SME housebuilders Contact Pelham James Unique Homes on 01572 Date 497 070 or email: / / 

through as the stated planning on system.” this proof form. 

team@pelhamjames.co.uk 

Proofing Dieting Procedure is Terms hard, & Conditions but I heard - Whilst every black effort clothes is made to minimise can be errors, very occasionally slimming, they do occur. so now The final every responsibility day is with I eat you - two the advertiser, shirts. to check that the adv 

(IN BLOCK CAPITALS) any alterations required. We cannot accept responsibility for late alterations requested after the 48 hour deadline commencing on the date of proof shown. It is the respons


Avant Homes Launches 

New Family Homes at £76m 

329-Home Sheltone Village 

Development in Earl Shilton 

Healthcare provider Mediq 

relocates to £30m UK HQ at 

Castle Donington 

HOUSEBUILDER Avant Homes has announced 10 new 

house types for sale at its £76m, 329-home Sheltone 

Village development in Earl Shilton. 

Located on Heath Lane, the development offers excellent access to 

nearby Hinkley and Leicester by road and train links, as well as being near 

to local amenities, schools and supermarkets. 

The newly released house types at Sheltone Village range from £230,000 

for a two-bedroom, semi-detached Askern house type to £370,000 for 

a four-bedroom detached Horbury. All 10 new house types have not 

previously been available on the development. 

The new homes all benefit from Avant Homes’ signature practical design 

and energy efficiency and are available with a range of incentives. These 

include five per cent deposit contribution, £15,000 deposit paid and extras 

including flooring included in the price on certain plots. 

Of the new range of homes available, two of them are four-bedroom, 

detached Horbury family homes which are available from £370,000. 

Storage unit and associated 

buildings for sale in Newhall 

SDL Property 

Auctions 

are offering 

for sale BY 

AUCTION 

the former 

Newhall Depot 

at Sunnyside, 

Newhall, 

Swadlincote, 

Derbyshire 

DE11 0TJ. 

The site comprises a 69.4 sq. metre steel portal frame workshop and a 

further 12.4 sq. metre workshop, together with wc and storage. 

The site benefits from planning consent for the creation of vehicular 

access from Sunnyside Road. This work will need to be done by the buyer 

in order to gain access to the site as currently access is gained via the 

school adjacent. 

To be offered for sale BY AUCTION on Thursday 30th May 2024 – 9.00am 

start. 

Guide Price: £75,000+ plus fees. 

Visit www.sdlauctions.co.uk for more information. 

HEALTHCARE provider Mediq has centred its UK operations 

at a major new base in Castle Donington. 

The firm – which operates across 14 European countries – has created its 

largest site to date as it builds its presence in the UK market. 

The 280,000 sq ft facility at East Midlands Distribution Centre will be used 

for medical healthcare distribution supply. 

The new facility was built to a cost of £30 million, which includes a £6 

million fit-out. 

It means the Mediq UK fleet will operate from the prime location between 

East Midlands Airport, the M1 and the A50 – one of the most strategically 

important logistics locations in the Midlands. 

The investment forms part of Netherlands-headquartered Mediq’s vision of 

combining efficiency and innovation to make a lasting impact on the future 

of the healthcare landscape in the UK. 

Mediq UK officially launched in September following the unification by 

acquisition of H&R Healthcare, Bunzl Healthcare, and 365 Healthcare. The 

group employs 415 people in the UK and 3,000 across its global group. 

Mediq UK currently operates from several sites around the country, 

including at Coalville, but will centre UK operations on Castle Donington 

over coming months. Smaller distribution sites will remain as regional hubs. 

The Castle Donington site, which has 30 loading bays and parking for 44 

HGVs, was acquired and developed with the support of Derbyshire-based 

Clowes Developments. 

It has had material handling equipment (MHE) and racking supplied and 

installed by Milton Keynes-based Jungheinrich. 

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Single plot for sale in Overseal 

BENTONS Estate Agents are offering for sale a single 

building plot at Moira Road, Overseal, Near Swadlincote, 

Derby DE12 6JB. 

The 0.53 acre plot has planning permission for a detached house with 

private shared driveway access. Guide Price: £200,000. 

Contact Bentons on 01664 563892 or email: sales@bentons.co.uk 

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was only invited to the evening do. 

I should never have tried to bluff it as an HGV driver. I’ve just 

been asked to back my lorry up and now I can’t even find the 

USB port. 

40 acre Leicestershire 

logistics site acquired 

ASHFIELD LAND has acquired 40 acres of land to the west 

of Shawell in Leicestershire with the potential for high 

quality distribution/logistics development. 

The site – which fronts the A5 and is just off the M1 (between J19 

‘Catthorpe interchange’ and J20), and M6 (J1) – is in the heart of the UK 

‘Golden Triangle’ for logistics uses. 

The site and location are ideally suited for centrally located and 

strategically connected distribution and logistics development. 

The deal is unconditional. Ashfield Land will now use its experience and 

expertise to bring proposals for the site forwards. 

Ben Holmes, Director of Ashfield Land, said: “This is a textbook 

Ashfield Land deal for a site which has outstanding potential for logistics 

development within a very exciting market. 

“We’re delighted to have completed the unconditional acquisition and are 

looking forward to progressing with our plans to secure planning and deliver 

a best in class logistics development in the heart of the Golden Triangle.” 

The site will now be promoted for B2/B8 commercial development. 

Ashfield Land will be bringing a planning application to Harborough District 

Council at the earliest opportunity. 

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MAY 2024 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk 23 

Village Footballers Praise 

Local Housebuilder 

A VILLAGE football team has thanked a local company for 

its support after the theft of the club’s goal nets. 

2620350 TP Clearance Warehouse advert May 2023.pdf 1 05/05/2023 15:50 

Mixed-use development site is 

being offered for sale in Crick 

HOWKINS & HARRISON are offering for sale a canal-side 

mixed-use development opportunity at Crick Wharf, West 

Haddon Road, Crick, Northampton NN6 7XT. 

The 1.51 

acre property 

Crick Wharf, West 

comprises 

Haddon Road, 

Crick, Northampton, a former NN6 7XT 

A Mixed-Use Development 

public 

opportunity 

house, 

situated 

on the edge of Crick, Northamptonshire a detached 

Grade II Listed 

Crick Wharf offers the opportunity to acquire a canal-side site which 

has the benefit of planning permission Victorian for the extension house 

to the 

existing pub, construction of six offices and five holiday lets. The site 

also benefits from listed building consent to 

a 

redevelop 

cottage 

the 

residential dwelling in situ. currently let 

The site sits in a strategic location on and comprises an Assured 

a former public 

house, a detached Grade II listed Victorian 

Shorthold 

house and a cottage 

currently let on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. 

The site area extends to 1.51 acres (0.61 ha) or thereabouts. 

Distances 

• J18 M1 – 1.4 miles 

• J19 M1/M6 – 5.1 miles 

Sutton Bonington FC replaced the stolen nets following a successful 

fund-raising campaign, including a contribution from Loughborough-based 

housebuilder William Davis Homes. 

The company – which has its Lime Gardens development on the edge 

of the village – has gone a step further with its support, providing kit 

sponsorship and pitch-side advertising. 

The club won promotion to Division One of the Leicestershire Senior 

League last season. 

“The backing of a local firm like William Davis Homes is a big boost for 

us,” said Sutton Bonington FC’s Team Manager Jack Tormey. 

• Rugby – 6.2 miles 

• Daventry – 7.8 miles 

• Northampton – 14.6 miles 

• Leicester – 23 miles 

“The whole club is grateful for this sponsorship which is now more 

important than ever with costs consistently rising. We hope we can build on 

this support and reach new heights in the senior league.” 

Planning 

permission (ref: 

DA/2020/1157) 

has been 

granted for 

the extension 

to the 

existing pub, 

construction of 

six offices and 

five holiday 

lets. The site 

also benefits from Listed Building Consent to redevelop the residential 

dwelling in situ. 


Proposed Street Scenes 

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henry.martin@howkinsandharrison.co.uk 

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Education Estates 

Investment drives boost for 

Loughborough Architects 

LOUGHBOROUGH-BASED Watson Batty Architects has 

announced a considerable boost to its education sector 

portfolio with a number of new instructions across the UK. 

Since the Government committed to increase its allocation for upgrading 

schools, which includes £1.8 billion for the 2024-25 financial year, Watson 

Batty has seen a surge in business that now accounts for 32% of total 

turnover. This includes major new build projects for national contractors 

including Tilbury Douglas, ISG and modular building specialist Algeco UK. 

Recent instructions include the design and delivery for a new science 

block at Saint Benedict Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby and a new 

1,200 place 11- to 16-year-old school for the Northampton School for Boys. 

Planning consent was recently secured for a replacement school at Beacon 

Academy in Cleethorpes, Tees Valley SEND School, Leeds City Academy 

and works are due to commence on a replacement building for Hempland 

Primary School in York. 

Watson Batty is also working with the University of Leeds, Leeds Becket 

University and Loughborough University to provide several new specialist 

health, science, and engineering facilities. 

As an appointed Technical Advisor for the Department of Education, 

Watson Batty employs a highly skilled team that specialises in all aspects of 

learning sector estates design ranging from early years, primary, secondary, 

and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) through to further 

and higher education. 

Watson Batty designed The Vine SEND college for Leeds City Council with 

a particularly challenging brief to support students with severe disabilities. 

The now completed two-storey building allows students to access a broad 

curriculum and specialist spaces including rebound therapy, a physiotherapy 

suite, sensory rooms, hydrotherapy pool, and extensive life-skills centre. 

Teaching areas contain hoists to allow students to freely access a range of 

spaces and easily transition between different activities. 

Single plot for sale in Great Dalby 

BENTONS Estate 

Agents are offering for 

sale a single building 

plot with planning 

permission (ref: 

20/01218/FUL) for 

a three-storey fourbedroom 

property 

adjacent to 3 Main 

Street, Great Dalby, 

Leicestershire LE14 

2ET. 

The agents understand 

that the planning permission 

expires on 8th July 2024. 


Land Adjacent To 

3 Main Street | Great Dalby | Leicestershire | LE14 2ET 

Contact Nick Bonfield at Bentons on 07794 157718 or email: nick@ 

bentons.co.uk 

Heidelberg agrees disposals to 

secure Mick George takeover 

THE COMPETITION 

authority has cleared the 

takeover of Mick George 

by Heidelberg Materials 

after approving a series of 

asset disposals. 

Faced with competition concerns, 

Heidelberg Materials has agreed to 

sell four quarries and five readymix 

plants. 

Hanson UK, as it then was, agreed the acquisition of Huntingdon-based 

Mick George back in December 2022. The proposed deal included four 

recycling facilities, eight waste transfer stations, 11 aggregates quarries and 

10 ready-mixed concrete plants. 

The Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) began looking into the deal last 

summer and found a threat to market competition in the supply of aggregates 

or ready-mix concrete in 18 local markets in the east of England and the East 

Midlands. 

Heidelberg Materials (Hanson rebranded as Heidelberg last autumn) has 

agreed to dispose of its quarries in Needingworth (Huntingdon) and Earls 

Barton (Northampton) as well as Mick George’s Ringstead and Watlington 

quarries. 

The readymix plants being sold are in Northampton, Market Harborough, 

Wellingborough, St Ives and Ely. 

The CMA has approved the undertakings offered by Heidelberg Materials, 

saying that they are “appropriate to remedy, mitigate or prevent the 

substantial lessening of competition, or any adverse effect which has or may 

have resulted from the transaction, or maybe expected to result from it”. 

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S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction PMI® 

Construction sector returns to 

growth in March 

KEY FINDINGS 

• Fractional rise in 

overall construction 

output 

• Strongest increase in 

new orders since May 

2023 

• Input price inflation 

eases to a threemonth 

low 

UK CONSTRUCTION 

COMPANIES indicated a renewed 

increase in total industry activity 

during March, thereby ending a 

six-month period of decline. Survey 

respondents often commented on 

a turnaround in sales pipelines and 

greater new business enquiries 

linked to the improving economic 

outlook and more stable financial 

conditions. 

Adding to signs of a recovery in 

construction sector performance, 

new orders expanded at the fastest 

pace since May 2023. However, 

construction companies remained 

cautious about staff hiring, with 

employment numbers falling for the 

third month running in March. 

The headline S&P Global UK 

Construction Purchasing Managers’ 

Index (PMI®) – a seasonally 

adjusted index tracking changes 

in total industry activity – rose 

from 49.7 in February to 50.2 in 

March. Any reading above 50.0 

indicates an overall expansion 

of construction output. Although 

signalling only a fractional rise in 

business activity, the index was at 

its highest level since August 2023. 

Civil engineering was the bestperforming 

segment in March, 

as output levels increased at a 

marginal pace. Panel members 

cited increased work on 

infrastructure projects and resilient 

demand in the energy sector. 

House building and commercial 

construction activity were both 

broadly unchanged in March. The 

stabilisation in residential work 

represented the best performance for 

this category since November 2022. 

March data pointed to a moderate 

increase in new work received 

by construction companies. The 

rate of expansion accelerated 

since February and was the 

strongest for ten months. Anecdotal 

evidence pointed to a general rise 

in new project starts and greater 

tender opportunities across the 

construction sector so far in 2024. 

In contrast to the positive trends 

for output and new orders, latest 

data signalled another reduction 

in staffing numbers. That said, 

the rate of job shedding was 

only marginal and eased since 

the previous month. At the same 

time, sub-contractor usage was 

stable in March. The latest survey 

indicated a strong improvement 

in sub-contractor availability. 

Rates charged by sub-contractors 

increased at the fastest pace since 

August 2023. 

Purchasing costs rose for the 

third month running in March. 

However, the rate of inflation was 

only marginal and the weakest 

seen over this period. Survey 

respondents noted increasing 

transport costs, but others 

suggested that strong competition 

among suppliers had constrained 

the overall rate of input price 

inflation. 

Suppliers’ delivery times shortened 

for the thirteenth consecutive 

month in March, albeit to only 

a moderate extent. Anecdotal 

evidence suggested that improving 

materials availability and subdued 

demand had contributed to 

improving vendor performance. 

Construction companies remain 

upbeat about their prospects for 

business activity in the next 12 

months. Around 49% of the survey 

panel anticipate a rise in output 

levels, while only 11% predict a 

decline. That said, the degree of 

optimism eased since February 

and was the lowest in 2024 to 

date. Survey respondents typically 

commented on stronger order 

books and hopes that broader 

market conditions will continue to 

improve, especially in relation to 

house building projects. Meanwhile, 

political uncertainty, squeezed 

margins and financial pressures 

were cited as factors weighing on 

optimism. 

Comment 

Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market 

Intelligence, which compiles the survey said: “UK construction 

output returned to growth in March as a renewed expansion of civil 

engineering work was supported by more stable conditions in the 

housing and commercial building segments. The marginal overall rise 

in total construction activity ended a six-month period of contraction. 

“The near-term outlook for construction workloads appears 

increasingly favourable as order books improved again in March 

and to the greatest extent for just under one year. Construction 

companies generally commented on a broadbased rebound in tender 

opportunities, helped by easing borrowing costs and signs that UK 

economic conditions have started to recover in the first quarter of 

2024. 

“Staff hiring was a weak spot for the construction sector in March 

amid lingering concerns about margin pressures and continued risk 

aversion among major clients. Construction firms often reported 

delays with replacing departing staff, which led to a decrease in total 

employment numbers for the third month in a row. 

“Supply chain pressures eased across the construction sector as 

subdued purchasing activity helped to alleviate strains on capacity. 

Improved supply conditions also led to a slowdown in the rate of cost 

inflation, which slipped to a three-month low in March.” 

Construction Estimator 

to the building trade 

www.fordestimatingservices.co.uk 

Call Martin on 

07860 695 806 

Or Email: 

martin@fordestimatingservices.co.uk 

More Reaction 

MICHAEL WYNNE, 

director of the sustainable 

housebuilder Q New 

Homes, commented: 

“It says a lot about how bad things 

had got for housebuilders that a 

return to zero growth is progress. 

“The flatlining numbers in 

residential construction activity 

are the best we’ve seen since 

November 2022, but these are 

early days to be talking about a 

recovery, let alone a resurgence. 

“Nevertheless the grey clouds that 

have dogged the housebuilding 

sector for nearly two years are 

starting to part. 

“Mortgage interest rates have 

come down since the start of the 

year, and the number of mortgage 

approvals jumped to a 17-month 

high in February. 

“With rents still rising and the cost 

of borrowing slowly coming down, 

the dream of owning a home burns 

bright for many would-be first-time 

buyers. As affordability improves, 

demand for homes should pick up. 

“Britain’s chronic housing shortage 

is also shaping up to be a key 

election issue, with several political 

parties unveiling plans to help get 

more homes built. 

“Planning delays remain a major 

choke point for developers, but 

with material cost inflation cooling 

and the prospect of further falls of 

interest rates, industry sentiment is 

holding up well. 

“Half of contractors now predict 

an increase in activity during the 

coming months, and the turnaround 

has begun – even if it’s happening 

at oil tanker pace.” 

DISTRIBUTE YOUR 

INSIDE THIS MAGAZINE 

We charge just £140 plus VAT to insert and deliver your single-sheet leaflet/card inside the 2,500 

mailed-out copies of Leicestershire Builder. Call Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069 to place your order. 

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28 Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • MAY 2024 • Tel: 01530 EMBARGOED 244069 • UNTIL Email: 00:01hrs info@buildermagazines.co.uk 

22nd APRIL 2024 

Auction date for Somercotes site 

GREAT CENTRAL RAILWAY REVEALS DRAMATIC 

NEW Great DESIGN FOR Central NEXT PHASE Railway 

OF AMBITIOUS 

‘REUNIFICATION’ PROJECT 

reveals design 

carry for the line linking next the two separate phase halves of the Great Central of Railway back together. 

‘Reunification’ Project 

The Great Central Railway is preparing to submit a planning application for it’s ambitious Reunification 

scheme. A new image has been released of the urban viaduct section, which will 

SDL Property Auctions are offering for sale BY AUCTION 

a former theatre building with detailed planning consent 

(ref: AVA/2020/0842) for part demolition and erection of 

20 apartments. 

The property – 90-94 Nottingham Road, Somercotes, Alfreton, 

Derbyshire DE55 4LY – is to be offered for sale BY AUCTION on Thursday 

30th May 2024 – 9.00am start. 



Vistry Group to deliver 1,000 

homes in two deals with Homes 

England 

VISTRY GROUP, 

the mixed tenure 

housebuilder, 

has secured 

two partnership 

deals with 

Homes England, 

delivering 1,000 

homes. 

The majority of the 

1,000 new homes 

will be manufactured 

off-site using timber 

frames from the Vistry Works East Midlands factory in Leicestershire. 

Vistry Group has been appointed by Homes England to deliver the 

regeneration of City Hospital. In bringing this site forward for development, 

the company has worked closely with Birmingham City Council and 

Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust. 

The site has outline planning permission for 750 homes, of which more 

than 50% will be affordable or private rent tenures, with the remaining 

homes for open market sale. The site will also have more than 8,000 sq ft 

reserved for commercial and community space. 

A second partnership deal in Hardingstone, Northamptonshire, will see 

Vistry deliver 250 mixed tenure homes with more than 50% presold. The 

site is also formerly owned by Homes England and has outline planning 

permission. 

Greg Fitzgerald, chief executive of Vistry Group, said: “These deals 

further evidence the benefit of our long-term strategic partnership with 

Homes England, enabling the Group to deliver a significant number of 

mixed tenure homes in the Midlands. 

“Furthermore, the unique capabilities of Vistry Works will allow us to 

utilise timber frame manufacturing at scale across both sites, speeding up 

housing delivery whilst reducing carbon emissions.” 

The THE project GREAT will create Central an eighteen-mile Railway heritage is preparing line stretching to from submit the north a of Leicester 

to the south of Nottingham, centred on Loughborough. 

planning application for it’s ambitious Reunification scheme. 

General The new Manager image of the above Great Central has Railway been Malcolm released Holmes of said, the “We’ll urban be submitting 

our viaduct planning section, application which in a matter will of weeks, carry so we the want line to tell linking people about the two our plans. 

The separate new image halves shows a train of the running Great on the Central proposed viaduct. Railway Originally back we together. 

had expected 

to build an embankment around 300 metres long but the space we have available would 

The project will create an eighteen-mile heritage line stretching from the 

north of Leicester to the south of Nottingham, centred on Loughborough. 

General Manager of the Great Central Railway Malcolm Holmes said, “We’ll 

be submitting our planning application in a matter of weeks, so we want 

to tell people about our plans. The new image shows a train running on 

the proposed viaduct. Originally we had expected to build an embankment 

around 300 metres long but the space we have available would have made 

that quite complex. Our new plan needs 100 metres of embankment, 

then 200 metres of viaduct. It should be slightly cheaper and simpler to 

construct.” 

This section of railway will also include two steel bridge spans, one to 

carry the railway across a culvert, the other to take it over Railway Terrace 

road in Loughborough. The full designs will be included in the planning 

application along with the necessary reports. 

Malcolm continued, “After we have submitted our planning application 

we’ll need to spend around half a million pounds taking the design 

documents and turning them into construction and engineering blueprints. 

Those documents are essential - as is planning consent - before we can 

build again. While we have £2m already raised for the project, we want to 

protect as much of that fund as possible for actual building work. Our new 

appeal for half a million pounds is to fund the vital next steps and get this 

epic project ‘shovel ready.’ The more money we raise, the sooner we can 

build again and the more we can achieve.” 

Donations can be made online at gcrailway.co.uk/unify or via 

post with a cheque made payable to ‘David Clarke Railway Trust’ 

marked ‘Reunification’ on the back. Cheques can be sent to Lovatt 

House, 3 Wharncliffe Road, Loughborough, Leics LE11 1SL. 

Originally opened in 1899, the Great Central was a fast Victorian Main Line 

to London. It was closed in the 1960s by British Railways. Two sections 

have survived but five hundred metres of track between them was also 

removed. 

Restoring the missing section has been underway since 2017. One new 

bridge has been built, one replaced and a third completely refurbished. 

Supported by local, national and international well wishers, millions of 

pounds have been raised to fund the work. 

The Great Central has also confirmed the two bridge decks secured for the 

scheme in 2012 are no longer needed. 

“The bridge decks were kindly donated by Network Rail when they 

were removed from Reading station. They were absolutely instrumental 

in getting the whole Reunification project started,” concluded Malcolm. 

“However with our design changes they would require expensive 

modification to fit with our plans so with regret we have decided they will 

be disposed of in due course. Instead the two steel bridge spans required 

for the Reunification line are more than likely to be brand new structures.” 

I applied for a job. They said send in your CV, and I loved that car.

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Safety decking system and crash deck which is patented and is a 3 in 1 mul8-func8onal high strength lowcost 

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AUCTIONS 

SDL Auctions 

Thurs 30th May 2024 

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Thurs 29th August 2024 

Thurs 26th September 2024 

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Thurs 28th November 2024 

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Major milestone reached 

with topping out of National 

Rehabilitation Centre 

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A 

SIGNIFICANT 

milestone in the 

construction of the 

NHS National Rehabilitation 

Centre (NRC) was reached 

in April. 

The £105m NRC programme is 

building a 70-bed, state-of-the-art 

and energy efficient new facility, run 

by Nottingham University Hospitals 

NHS Trust and part of the Government’s 

New Hospital Programme. 

Research, innovation and training 

will be led by academic partners the 

University of Nottingham and Loughborough 

University. 

IHP, a joint venture between VINCI 

Building and Sir Robert McAlpine, 

hosted a formal ‘Topping Out Ceremony’ 

at the Stanford Hall Rehabilitation 

Estate near Loughborough, 

marking the building reaching its 

highest level and the completion of 

the building’s frame. 

The NRC is due to open in 2025 and 

aims to transform clinical treatment 

for patients in the East Midlands, 

and set a new standard for research 

and innovation, and education and 

training in rehabilitation for the whole 

of the UK. 

The celebration was attended by key 

stakeholders including Sir Andrew 

McAlpine – partner at Sir Robert 

McAlpine on behalf of IHP, the Black 

Stork Charity, University of Nottingham, 

Loughborough University, and 

the Defence Medical Rehabilitation 

Centre, located on the same estate. 

Pip Logan, Professor of Rehabilitation 

Research and Occupational 

Therapist at the School of Medicine, 

University of Nottingham, said: “The 

University of Nottingham’s partnership 

with the National Rehabilitation 

Centre (NRC) represents an essential 

part of our commitment to uplifting 

– through our world-leading experience 

in rehabilitation research and 

education – the health of the people 

in our region and across the UK. 

TOPPING OUT: Image courtesy of 

University of Nottingham 

“It’s a pleasure to celebrate this great 

milestone in construction of the NRC 

and we look forward to utilising this 

fantastic new integrated facility. 

“Embedding our training courses 

in rehabilitation, alongside our research 

in robotics, physiology, mental 

health, rehab technology, occupational 

therapy, physiotherapy, 

rehab medicine and rehab nursing, 

with patients, families, clinical professionals, 

and industry is vital for 

our institution and for developing 

world-class rehabilitation patient 

services.” 

Miriam Duffy, NRC Director, said: 

“We began this journey almost eight 

years ago in 2016, and so today’s 

milestone is testament to the teamwork 

and perseverance that have 

brought us to this point, which is 

another step towards opening our 

doors to patients in need of rehabilitation. 

“The NRC will not only serve as a 

centre rehabilitation excellence, but 

also as a symbol of hope for countless 

individuals and families across 

the country. We look forward to welcoming 

patients next year so we can 

help them start their own journey towards 

a better future with as much 

independence as possible.” 

Professor Mark Lewis, Loughborough 

University’s NRC lead and 

Dean of the School of Sport, Exercise 

and Health Sciences, said: “It is 

fantastic to see the progress being 

made on the construction of the National 

Rehabilitation Centre. 

“Loughborough University is proud 

to be a core partner for this stateof-the-art 

facility. We look forward 

to using our expert knowledge in research 

and innovation to help transform 

treatment and outcomes for patients, 

and to developing education 

and training programmes in rehabilitation 

that are truly world leading.” 

AI SPEED CAMERAS have 

started to be rolled out UK 

roads, installed in vans that 

monitor drivers using their 

phones and not wearing 

seatbelts. 

Motor expert, Louise Thomas 

at Confused.com car insurance 

comments: “AI speed cameras 

will help catch drivers who break 

the law when behind the wheel, 

such as driving without wearing a 

seatbelt or for using their phone. 

This new technology aims to help 

improve road safety, protecting 

both road users and pedestrians 

from dangerous driving. 

“Our research reveals that 

nearly half (48%) of UK drivers 

recognise that AI speed cameras 

will help make roads safer. But 

another 1 in 5 (21%) also think 

they’re an invasion of privacy. And 

although some might have some 

reservations, the majority see it’s 

importance as the cameras could 

help to crack down on distracted 

driving. 

“Distracted driving, such as using 

your phone while driving, could 

result in a £200 fine and up to 6 

points on your license. But not 

focusing when behind the wheel 

can also result in near-misses or 

accidents. And for the drivers who 

are caught driving dangerously, 

they could be banned from driving 

altogether. For more information on 

the latest camera technology, our 

guide on speeding cameras and 

the law can help.” 

www.confused.com/carinsurance/guides/speeding-lawfaqs 

TO ADVERTISE IN 

LEICESTERSHIRE 

BUILDER 

call Mike Wilkinson 

on 01530 244069 

Or email: info@ 

buildermagazines. 

co.uk 

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THE SECRET SURVEYOR is the new book that takes readers 

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Construction is the third largest sector of the UK economy. It employs 

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“I’m a senior surveyor for a national 

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to think that I know enough to share 

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ridiculous. In fact, that’s probably 

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experience every single working day. 

Some of it is great, rewarding, and 

enriching. Then, at other times, you 

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“As some of what I say may be 

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Introduction 

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5. Meet the contractors 

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7. Different construction roles: 

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8. Different types of project 

9. Timeline of a project 

10. How much will it cost? 

11. Advice for the homeowner 

12. Common construction 

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14. Recent industry 

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15. The future of the 

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Closing date for entries 

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Former Care Facility with two 

houses for sale in Bakewell 

SDL Property Auctions 

are offering for sale BY 

AUCTION a former care 

facility including two 

former staff houses with 

potential for change of 

use, subject to planning. 

The property – Gernon Manor 

House, Dagnall Gardens, 

Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 

1EN – comprises three singlestorey 

brick-built blocks with 

a total area extending to 

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hectares. 

To be offered for sale BY 

AUCTION on Thursday 30th 

May 2024 – 9.00am start. 



Thistleton barn and grainstore 

with consent for conversion 

MOORES 

CGI images to represent the potential end build 

Estate Agents 

are offering 

for sale an 

agricultural 

barn and 

grainstore 

with planning 

permission 

(ref: 

2020/1086/ 

PAD) under 

Class Q 

Building plot at Fosse Lane, Thistleton 

permitted development to convert into a substantial 

residential dwelling An agricultural of approximately barn and grainstore 3,222 with planning sq. permission feet. under Class Q p 

a substantial residential dwelling of approximately 3222sqft, and may lend it 

The property – at Fosse Lane, Thistleton, Leicestershire LE14 2BP – 

school to the second building. Positioned on a plot of approximately 4.5 acre 

is positioned on a plot separate of around negotiation. 4.5 acres, There with is already further water land connection available in place, by electric con 

separate negotiation. installed by the purchaser. 

Offers over £500,000 are invited. 

Full details can be found on the Rutland County Council website, Planning Re 

Contact Moores on 01572 757979 or email: office@mooresestateagents. 

com 

**Agents Note: CGI images added to represent the potential end build** 

Offers Over £500,000 

Supporting Your Community 

Has YOUR firm helped out a community group or sports 

club in the local area by sponsoring them, volunteering to 

help, or buying them some kit? 

If so, please send details and we’ll spread the word in 

Leicestershire Builder. Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk 

It’s been a tough week. I bought myself a memory foam mattress and now it’s trying to blackmail me.


Tel: 0116 2853 777 

Leema Technologies Limited. 

The Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL 

howkinsandharrison.co.uk 

Land Off Gladstone Street, Lutterworth, LE17 4EA 

Freehold Residential Development opportunity 

An opportunity to acquire a site which has the benefit of full 

planning permission for the erection of a two-storey dwelling 

on a vacant site with 2 off road parking spaces. 

For sale by auction. Auction end date: 15th May 12pm. 

Contact: 

henry.martin@howkinsandharrison.co.uk | 01788 564680 

alex.brown@howkinsandharrison.co.uk | 01788 564680 

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How to get 

cheaper van 

insurance 

VAN DRIVERS 

have been told 

how to lower 

their insurance 

after premiums 

rose by over 15% 

for commercial 

van users. 

Experts at Lease Van 

have named five tips 

for drivers to reduce 

their insurance policies 

with little time or effort. 

Taking off young or inexperienced drivers is one of the quickest ways to 

reduce premiums as they are deemed more of a risk on the roads. 

Check business advertisements on the side of the van aren’t considered 

to be modifications, as this increases the premiums on the policy. 

Van drivers should also consider downsizing their vehicle and increasing 

security measures with alarms and immobilisers to make their insurance 

cheaper. 

Tim Alcock from Lease Van said: “Vehicle insurance is rising for 

everyone right now, so many of us are looking for ways to make the 

price more affordable. 

“There are several things you can do with little effort to decrease your 

van insurance costs - such as taking off young or inexperienced drivers 

from the policy. 

“Joining a trade federation may also give you a discount when getting 

an insurance quote. 

“Installing security measures such as alarms, steering wheel locks, 

immobilisers and vehicle trackers will also help to lower costs. 

“Van drivers should also check their advertising isn’t classed as a 

modification, and consider downsizing vehicles to be given a cheaper 

insurance policy.” 

How to lower your van insurance 

• REVIEW WHO IS ON THE INSURANCE POLICY 

Review who is added to the insurance policy to potentially lower your 

premiums. Young or inexperienced drivers can increase the insurance 

as they are deemed more of a risk. Motorists with a poor claims history 

will also make the policy more expensive. 

• JOIN A TRADE FEDERATION 

Some insurance providers will offer a discount to those who are a 

member of a trade federation. It’s important to check which companies 

offer this benefit before signing up and getting an insurance quote. 

• ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS 

Having signwriting on your van advertising your business will deter 

thieves from stealing the vehicle as it will be harder to sell on. However, 

before getting any signwriting, check with your insurance provider 

and the DVLA to check it isn’t considered a modification as this could 

increase the premiums on your policy. 

• INCREASE VAN SECURITY 

Insurers will likely lower the costs of your policy if the van has extra 

security measures which will help to protect the vehicle. Make sure your 

van is more secure by installing alarms, a steering wheel lock, vehicle 

trackers and immobilisers. 

• DOWNSIZE YOUR VAN 

Downsizing your van could decrease the cost of your insurance policy 

as the vehicle will be classed as lower risk. Check you’re driving the 

right size van for your business and ensure it is suitable for your needs, 

and use a smaller vehicle if possible. 

Matthew promoted to principal 

planner at Marrons in Leicester 

PLANNING, design 

and development 

consultancy Marrons 

has announced a staff 

promotion in Leicester. 

Effective 1 May 2024, 

Matthew Roe has been 

promoted to principal planner. 

Matthew – who has more 

than eight years’ experience 

– works with developers 

and private individuals to 

deliver attractive, sustainable 

and feasible development 

proposals. 

Brian Mullin, partner 

and head of Marrons, said: “Our client base is ever-expanding across 

the country and we are continuing to unlock sites nationwide, which is 

testament to the invaluable experience and expertise we have here at 

Marrons. With this in mind, rewarding high performance is part of our 

culture, so we’re thrilled to announce Matthew’s truly-deserved promotion, 

which reflects his significant contribution to the team as we continue to 

grow as a consultancy.” 

Derby town house divided into 

eight flats is up for auction 

SDL Property 

Auctions 

are offering 

for sale BY 

AUCTION 

an imposing 

double 

fronted 

character 

town house 

divided into 

eight wellequipped 

self-contained 

flats. 

The property – 18 Hartington Street, Derby DE23 8EA – is situated on a 

tree-lined avenue close to the city centre. 

The property is fully let and producing a combined gross income of 

£41,880 per annum, which represents a 12.6% return, based on the Guide 

Price. 


start. 



I accidentally used a volume-maximising shampoo, and now my hair’s too noisy.


ROUTE 

5 

CONSTRUCTION 

CONSULTANTS 

Route 5 is a nationwide building and development 

consultancy based in Leicestershire. 

We offer the following construction consultancy services: 

Quantity Surveying Estimating Energy/SAP 

Party Wall Surveying Project Management 

N 

Tel: 07912 120 052 

Email: enquiries@route5qs.co.uk 

T 

My wife says I have a tendency to overdramatise things, so she clearly hates me.


Recent Planning Applications 

Leicester City 

Aqsa Investments Ltd (c/o 

Agent: Mr Muhammad Imtiaz, 

Architecture365 Ltd, 20 Lynmouth 

Road, Leicester LE5 1NA) - 

Demolition of buildings at side; 

alterations and installation of 

ventilation flue; construction of 

single and two storey side extension 

and front & rear dormers; extension 

of raised terrace at rear; change 

of use of part of ground floor from 

storage to residential; formation 

of four self-contained flats (Class 

C3) – at 25 Guthridge Crescent, 

Leicester LE3 1JL. 

Mr Humzah Thadha (c/o Agent: 

Mr Bashir Khwaja, USL Architects, 

7 Progress Business Centre, Whittle 

Parkway, Burnham SL1 6DQ) - 

Construction of one warehouse 

building comprising of 3 units; 

construction of extensions at sides 

of existing warehouse building 

and retrofitting to provide 9 units; 

retrofitting of existing warehouse 

building to provide 3 units (Class 

B2); associated access; landscaping 

and infrastructure – at Bostik 

Limited, Ulverscroft Road, 

Leicester LE4 6BW. 

Mr Ishtiaq Latif (c/o Agent: Mr 

Anjum Mehmood, Anjum Design 

Limited, 435 Stratford Road, Shirley, 

Solihull B90 4AA) – Change of use 

from Commercial, Business & Service 

use to 24 flats – at 61 Southgate 

House, Millstone Lane, Leicester 

LE1 5JN. 

Mr Shiraz Karim (c/o Agent: Mr 

Khaleel Tayub, Solvers Architecture 

Ltd, 108 Belgrave Gate, Leicester 

LE1 3GR) - Construction of two 

storey extension at rear to provide 

2 flats (2 x 1 Bed) (Class C3) – at 

51 Evington Road, Leicester LE2 

1QG. 

Winfox Limited (c/o Agent: Miss 

Charlotte Mills, Hybrid Planning 

& Development, 23 Vyner Street, 

London E2 9DG) - Variation of 

conditions 14 (Sustainability 

Statement) and 28 (Approved Plans) 

attached to planning permission 

20190742: (CONSTRUCTION OF 

FOUR BUILDINGS OF 3-7 STOREYS 

COMPRISING 361 APARTMENTS 

(CLASS C3) (131 x STUDIOS, 50 

X 1 BED, 84 X 2 BED, 49 X 3 BED, 

36 X 4 BED AND 11 X 5 BED) ; 

COMMERCIAL UNIT(CLASSES A1, 

A2 OR A3); ASSOCIATED CAR 

PARKING; LANDSCAPING; OTHER 

ASSOCIATED WORKS (AMENDED 

PLANS) (S106 Agreement); to allow 

the development to be delivered 

in accordance with a revised 

Sustainability and Energy Statement 

including the provision of photo 

voltaic panels to the roofs of each 

block. (Amended Plans)(Deed of 

Variation to S106 agreement); to 

amend the wording of conditions 

17 (Sight Lines to access) and 26 

(Disabled Parking) to allow for 

the occupation of Blocks B, C and 

D before Block A – at Former 

Leicester City Football Club 

Ground, Filbert Street, Leicester 

LE2 7FZ. 

Universal Pentecostal Church 

(c/o Agent: Mr Paul Burgess, Lewis 

& Co Planning, 2 Port Hall Road, 

Brighton BN1 5PD) - Change of use 

from industrial and warehouse units, 

construction of mezzanine floor, 

new windows, doors and changes 

to elevational treatment, to create 

a place of worship (Class F.1) with 

ancillary residential accommodation 

for ministers (4 bedrooms) – at 1 

Sanvey Gate, Leicester LE1 4EP. 

Hooh Limited (c/o Agent: Thomas 

Rumble, Woolf Bond Planning, The 

Mitfords, Basingstoke Road, Three 

Mile Cross, Reading RG7 1AT) – 

Change of use from Class E Use 

to C3 Use to create 58 residential 

dwellings – at 9-15 Bosworth 

House, Princess Road West, 

Leicester LE1 6TH. 

Gateway Sixth Form College (c/o 

Agent: Graham Burt Limited, 8 The 

Courtyard, Roman Way, Coleshill 

B46 1HQ) – Single storey building to 

accommodate one classroom – at 

Gateway Sixth Form College, 17 

Colin Grundy Drive, Hamilton, 

Leicester LE5 1GA. 

Hinckley & 

Bosworth 

Mr A Reid (c/o Agent: Simon 

Cheshire Planning Limited, 34 Stanley 

Road, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton 

CV13 0NB) - Demolition of the Laban 

Tansey building, erection of new 

apartment building and associated 

landscaping works and parking on 

land between Druid Street and Upper 

Bond St, Hinckley (Resubmission 

23/00383/FUL) – at Former 

Factory Works, Upper Bond 

Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire. 

Mrs Kathryn Gear (c/o Agent: 

Jack Crowfoot, 32 Chesterfield Way, 

Barwell, Leicestershire LE9 8BH) – 

Proposed change of use of shop floor 

to 3 flats – at 8 Chapel Street, 

Barwell, Leicestershire LE9 8DD. 

Mr Liam Edwards (c/o Agent: 

Mr Oliver Roberts, Anotherkind 

Architects Ltd, Suite 5, Bingham 

Enterprise Centre, Mercia Court, 

Bingham NG13 8QX) – Approval 

of reserved matters for residential 

development of up to 55 dwellings 

– at land north of Barton Road, 

Barlestone, Leics. 

NHS Property Services (c/o 

Agent: Mrs Lindsey Sproulle, 

Berrys, Beech House, Anchorage 

Avenue, Shrewsbury Business Park, 

Shrewsbury SY2 6FG) - Approval for 

reserved matters (Landscaping) for 

23/00851/OUT (Outline planning 

permission for the redevelopment 

of a Community Diagnostics Centre 

(CDC) and Endoscopy building (Use 

Class E(e) (access, appearance, 

layout and scale to be considered 

with landscaping reserved) – at 

Hinckley And District General 

Hospital, Mount Road, Hinckley, 

Leicestershire LE10 1AE. 

Mrs J Jelfs (c/o Agent: Simon 

Cheshire Planning Ltd, 34 Stanley 

Road, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton 

CV13 0NB) – Extensions and 

alterations of existing ancillary 

building to form early years day 

nursery with associated car parking 

– at Manor View, Aston Flamville 

Road, Burbage, Hinckley, Leics. 

LE10 3AA. 

Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: 

Mr Simon Atha, Boyer Planning, Unit 

1 Cedars Office Park, Butt Lane, 

Normanton on Soar, Loughborough, 

Leics. LE12 5EE) - Outline planning 

permission for the erection of up to 

415 dwellings, including landscaping, 

open spaces, drainage and associated 

infrastructure (outline - access only) 

– at Land North Of Normandy 

Way, Hinckley, Leicestershire. 

John Cooper (c/o Agent: Andrew 

Moore Architectural Services, 

2 Netherley Road, Hinckley, 

Leicestershire LE10 0RF) – Proposed 

two storey warehouse industrial 

unit – at Unit 2, Arthur Street, 

Barwell, Leicestershire LE9 8GZ. 

Mr Paul Waterfield (c/o: 

Davidsons Homes, Blisworth Hill 

Farm, Rickyard Barn, Stoke Road, 

Blisworth, Northants. NN7 3DB) 

- Full Planning Application for the 

Provision of Additional 23 Residential 

Dwellings Including Vehicular Access, 

Landscaping, Drainage and all other 

Associated Works – at Land North 

Of Deepdale Farm, Lutterworth 

Road, Burbage, Leicestershire. 

Harborough 

District 

Mr Stephen Fairbrother (c/o 

Agent: Richard Norwood, Leaf 

Architecture & Design Ltd, Gate 

House Office, 1 Valley Way, Welland 

Business Park, Market Harborough, 

Leics. LE16 7PS) – Demolition of 

existing residential building and 

replacement with 9 residential units 

with improved parking provision – 

at 57 Western Avenue, Market 

Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 

9PL. 

Mr Charles Van-Oppen (c/o: 

Woodcroft, Bures, Suffolk CO8 

5DU) – Erection of 4 two storey 

dwellings and associated parking 

and garages – at land adjacent 

to Manor Farm, Hallaton Road, 

Medbourne, Leicestershire. 

Mr Brayden Cooper (c/o Agent: 

Ms Anna Myrna-Krzeminska, 

Staniforth Architects, The 

Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, 

Leicester LE1 6NL) – Outline 

application for the erection of up to 

90 lodges and associated ancillary 

buildings – at land OS 5000, 

Launde Road, Tilton on the Hill, 

Leicestershire. 

Ed Burbidge (c/o Agent: Mr Iain 

Downer, Class Q Limited, The Grey 

House, 3 Broad Stree Stamford 

PE9 1PG) Demolition of agricultural 

buildings and the erection of 5 

dwellings, associated access and 

landscaping – at Chapel Fam, 

Foxton Road, Lubenham Leics. 

LE16 7RY. 

Mr Jack Tranter (c/o Agent: Mr 

Omar Shariff, STOAS Architects Ltd, 

The Lodge, Coleshill Manor, South 

Drive, Birmingham B46 1DL) – 

Erection of 2 dwellings, to include a 

new private access road, car parking 

and external amenity space – at 

Deanston House, The Nook, 

Bitteswell, Leics. LE17 4RY. 

Susan and Janet Porter-Davison 

& Eastwood (c/o Agent: Tom 

Donnelly, Parker Planning Services 

Ltd, 13-15 Cathedral Street, Norwich 

NR1 1LU) - Outline application for 

the erection of 2 dwellings (custom/ 

self build) – at land adjacent 

Manor Road, Ullesthorpe, Leics. 

BM King Ltd (c/o Agent: 

Mark Shrive, MWS Design, 48A 

Northampton Road, Market 

Harborough, Leics. LE16 9HE) – 

Erection of 4 dwellings (Reserved 

matters) – at land adjacent to 1A 

Victoria Street, Fleckney, Leics. 

Ms T Wheatcroft (c/o Agent: 

Jeremy Murfitt, Everything is 

Somewhere Ltd, Manor Cottage, 60 

Main Street, West Leake, Leics. LE12 

5RF) – Conversion and extension 

of an agricultural building to form 

2 dwellings (self build and custom 

build) – at Agricultural building 

south of Lutterworth Road, 

Arnesby, Leics. 

Mr James Phillips (c/o Agent: Tim 

Necklen, Corporate Architecture 

Ltd, Venari House, 1 Trimbush Way, 

Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 

7XY) – Erection of 2 retail units 

with ancillary storage to first floor 

(Resubmission) – at Car Park, 

High Street, Fleckney, Leics. 

Stupid birds outside are singing so loudly I can’t hear my ‘Relaxing Birdsong’ CD.


Rutland County 

Mr Brad Giles (c/o Agent: Mr Iain 

Downer, Class Q Ltd, The Grey 

House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford 

PE9 1PG) – Erection of 2 dwellings, 

associated access and landscaping – 

at land north east of Rosedene, 

Main Street, Thistleton, Rutland. 

Mr M Nicholls (c/o Agent: Tom 

Helliwell, Class Q Ltd, The Grey 

House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford 

PE9 1PG) – Section 73 application in 

relation to 2022/1167/FUL to vary 

conditions 2 (Block plan) & 8 (offsite 

highways works) - Erection of 4 

No. residential two-storey dwellings 

and introduction of an access road 

on the western side of the existing 

Stamford Osteopathic Clinic car park. 

Introduction of new public footpath 

on the eastern boundary of the site 

and new children’s play area – at 

Stamford Osteopathy Clinic, 

Old Great North Road, Great 

Casterton, Rutland PE9 4AA. 

North West Leics. 

Strata (c/o Agent: Miss Phoebe 

Conway, Marrons, Waterfront House, 

Waterfront Plaza, 35 Station Street, 

Nottingham NG2 3DQ) - Erection of 

160 dwellings including the provision 

of associated site infrastructure, 

open space and landscaping 

(reserved matters to outline planning 

permission ref. 13/00956/OUTM) – at 

Land To The North Of Beveridge 

Lane, Ellistown, Leicestershire. 

Roisin McFeely (c/o Agent:WSP, 

First Floor, 3 Wellington Place, Leeds 

LS1 4AP) – Demolition of existing 

buildings on site and the erection of 

a 36-bedroom care home, associated 

access, parking and landscaping – at 

land off Ashby Road, Coalville, 

Leics. LE67 3LA. 

Mr Keith Baxter (c/o Agent: Mr Lee 

Ward, Hayward Architects, Ground 

Floor, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, 

Leics. LE10 1AW) - Hybrid application 

- outline planning permission 

for 6 dwellings and demolition 

of barn, wall & outbuildings in 

a conservation area (all matters 

reserved except for access and 

layout); full planning permission for 

single and two storey extensions 

and alterations to 139 & 141 High 

Street, conversion and extension of 

existing barn to dwelling. Outline 

planning, with access and siting for 

6 dwellings. Demolition of barn, wall 

& outbuildings in conservation area 

– at Poplars Farm, High Street, 

Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6JP. 

Blaby District 

Dr J McGarry (c/o Agent: John 

Hackman, The Drawing Room 

(Architects) Limited, 130 Moat Street, 

Wigston, Leicester LE18 2GE) – 

Outline application for the erection of 

up to 3 new dwellings and demolition 

of existing dwelling – at 77 Station 

Road, Countesthorpe, Leics. LE8 

5TB. 

Charnwood 

Borough 

Masala Munch – Prior approval 

for proposed change of use from 

Commercial, Business and Service 

(Use Class E) to Dwellinghouses (Use 

Class C3) – at 5 Grafton Road, 

Loughborough, Leics. LE11 5UT. 

Mr Mandeep Singh (c/o Agent: 

Lion Planning) – Conversion of the 

existing two storey office building 

to form 4 one-bedroom flats – at 

Hardy Court, Granite Way, 

Mountsorrel, Leics. 

Mr Mitchell Gregory (c/o Agent: 

BHB Architects) – Condition 

2 (P/22/0992/2) Residential 

development of 3 dwellings, 

alterations to existing access, 

refurbishment of existing outbuilding 

and associated works – at land 

to the rear of 5 Far Street, 

Wymeswold, Leicestershire LE12 

6TZ. 

Mr Mitesh Rathod – Reserved 

Matters application for the 

appearance, landscaping, layout and 

scale of development for 56 dwellings 

as granted under appeal – at 

Loughborough Road, Burton on 

the Wolds, Leics. 

Selby (c/o Agent: Astill Planning 

Consultants Ltd) - Demolition and 

clearance of site and erection of 8 

dwellings – at Selbys Garage, 77 

Main Street, Woodhouse Eaves, 

Leics. LE12 8RY. 

Rugby Borough 

Mr David Woodward (c/o Agent: 

Andrew Brough, CT Planning, 

Three Spires House, Station 

Road, Lichfield WS13 6HX) – Prior 

approval application for change of 

use from Commercial, Business & 

Service Use to dwellinghouses – at 

Wolvey Lodge Business centre, 

Cloudesley Bush Lane, Wolvey, 

Warks. LE10 3HB. 

Mr J Gray (c/o Agent: John Clarke, 

Howkins & Harrison, 7-11 Albert 

Street, Rugby, Warks. CV21 2RX) - 

Prior approval application for change 

of use from Commercial, Business & 

Service Use to 3 dwellinghouses – 

at Waldings Farm, Barby Lane, 

Hillmorton, Rugby, Warks. CV22 

5QJ. 

Mrs C Newman (c/o Agent: Dill 

Sidhu, Bilton Architectural Services 

Ltd, The Coach House, Merttens 

Drive, Rugby, Warks. CV22 7AE) - 


of use from Commercial, Business & 

Service Use to dwellinghouses – at 

1 Regent Street, Rugby, Warks. 

CV21 2PE. 

Mrs C Newman (c/o Agent: Dill 

Sidhu, Bilton Architectural Services 

Ltd, The Coach House, Merttens 

Drive, Rugby, Warks. CV22 7AE) - 


of use of first and scond floor offices 

to dwellinghouses – at 5 Regent 

Street, Rugby, Warks. CV21 2PE. 

North Northants. 

Ms Naomi Perselli (c/o Agent: 

Mr Sav Patel, Strutt & Parker, Unit 

1022, 1 Cambridge Square, Milton 

Avenue, Cambridge CB4 0AE) – 

Application for permission in principle 

for 4 dwellings – at Manor Farm, 

Stoke Doyle Road, Stoke Doyle, 

Oundle. 

F & L Group Limited (c/o Agent: 

Mr Gavin Hinton Cook, Hinton 

Cook Architects, 15 Warren Yard, 

Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes MK12 

5NW) – Demolition of existing 

commercial buildings and erection 

of 9 apartments – at Car Sales 

Office, Quorn Road, Rushden, 

Northants. NN10 6UU. 

Mr Tafil Minaj (c/o Agent: Jon 

Sidey, Sidey Design Associates, 10 

Market Square, Higham Ferrers, 

Northants. NN10 8BT) – Change 

of use from Commercial Use to 

Residential, including alterations – at 

67-71A High Street, Rushden, 

Northants. NN10 0QE. 

Mr & Mrs Philip Hilton (c/o 

Agent: Colin Moore, CMPS, Lodge 

Barn, Lindsey Close, Woodnewton, 

Peterborough PE8 5EW) – Demolish 

existing bungalow and build 2 

detached dwellings with detached 

garages – at Meadow View, Main 

Street, Glapthorn, Peterborough 

PE8 5BE. 

P Johnston Construction Limited 

(c/o Agent: Mrs Jenny McIntee, 

Jenny McIntee Architecture, 119 

Northampton Road, Wellingborough, 

Northants. NN8 3PL) – Residential 

development of 3 new dwellings on 

site of redundant garages (garages 

to be demolished) – at Garage 

Block Adjacent to 56 St Peters 

Road, Oundle, Northants. PE8 

4NT. 

Mr Tony Worley (c/o Agent: David 

Hartley Associates, 22 High Street, 

Stilton, Peterborough PE7 3RA) – 

Proposed demolition of block of 11 

single garages and erection of one 

pair of one and a half storey semidetached 

two bedroom houses and 

associated parking – at Garages 

Adjacent to 54 Springfield Road, 

Oundle, Northants. PE8 4LT. 

Mr & Mrs Howell (c/o Agent: Tom 

Helliwell, Class Q Limited, The Grey 

House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 

1PG) – Outline application for the 

erection of 4 dwellings – at land 

off Dovecote Close, Yarwell, 

Northants. PE8 6PT. 

Mr M Bloch (c/o Agent: Mr Sean 

Bennett, Berrys, 42 Headlands, 

Kettering, Northants. NN15 7HR) 

– Conversion of former workshop 

buildings to create 3 dwellings – at 

Lilford Hall, Lilford Park, Lilford, 

Northants. PE8 5SG. 

Mr Mark Betterton (c/o Agent: 

Jordan Keech, Blueprint Architectural 

Design, 5 Blotts Barn Business 

centre, Brooks Road, Raunds, 

Northants. NN9 6NS) – Demolition 

of existing builders yard and 

workshop and erection of a pair 

of semi-detached dwellings – at 

7A Glassbrook Road, Rushden, 

Northants. NN10 9TG. 

Corby Borough 

Mr Frank Burns (c/o Agent: Mr 

Alex Jelley, Alpine Planning Limited, 

4 Donnington Road, Burton Latimer, 

Kettering, Northants. NN15 5WL) 

– Demolition of existing bungalow 

and garage and construction 

of 2 dwellings and associated 

infrastructures – at 143 Corby 

Road, Weldon, Northants. NN17 

3HU. 

South Derbyshire 

HCM Property Developments 

Ltd (c/o Agent: Mrs Kay Carpenter, 

STAT Planning, Grove House, 

Church Street, Whatton in the Vale, 

Notts. NG13 9EL) – Conversion 

of agricultural buildings to create 

6 dwellings, new garaging and 

demolition of redundant buildings 

– at Eastfield farm, Acresford 

Road, Netherseal, Swadlincote, 

Derby, DE12 8DF. 

Rushcliffe Borough 

Mr Tom Anderson (c/o Agent: 

Michael Downes, Mdpc, 5 Plantation 

Cottages, Main Street, Epperstone, 

Nottingham NG14 6AG) – Erection of 

4 dwellings – at land south west 

of Harby Lane, Colston Bassett, 

Notts. 

Mr Tom Anderson (c/o Agent: 

Michael Downes, Mdpc, 5 Plantation 

Cottages, Main Street, Epperstone, 

Nottingham NG14 6AG) – Erection of 

6 dwellings – at land south west 

of Harby Lane, Colston Bassett, 

Notts. 

Mr Dean Curtis (c/o Agent: Andrew 

Chetwynd, Chetwynd Architects 

Limited, 305 Springvale Road, 

Crookesmoor, Sheffield S10 1LL) – 

Proposed two storey warehouse and 

offices facilitiesextension to existing 

warehouse/offices facilities – at 63- 

69 Moorbridge Road, Bingham, 

Nottinghamshire NG13 8GG. 

Mr Walters (c/o Agent: Miss Julia 

Karoly, JLK Architectural Design LLP, 

20 Wembley Gardens, Nottingham 

NG9 3FE) – First floor change of 

use from office to 2 apartments ; 

two storey roof extension with front 

balcony to include 2 apartments; 

rear facingflat roof dormer to be built 

on remaining part of the roof – at 

Timber Windows of Nottingham, 

Radcliffe Road, West Bridgford, 

Nottingham NG2 5FF. 

Don’t forget to 

send us your 

news. 

Email: info@ 

buildermagazines.co.uk 

If you rub a dock leaf on Sting he will disappear.


Property consultancy boosts 

Midlands agency team 

A PROPERTY consultancy has strengthened its Midlands 

agency team after two new hires joined the business. 

James Cardon has joined Fisher German’s agency team at its Ashby 

office as a Sales Manager following a seven-year career in the property 

industry. 

He joins Fisher German alongside Stacey Greatorex, who joins the team 

as a Sales Coordinator to support the team. 

James will be marketing residential property in and around Leicestershire, 

Derbyshire, and Staffordshire in his new role. 

He said: “I’m really pleased to have joined Fisher German at what is a 

busy time in the Midlands residential market. 

Stacey added: “It’s fantastic to be starting at Fisher German – I’ve had a 

keen interest in property for a long time so I’m very excited to support the 

Midlands agency team in achieving its expansion. 

“Fisher German has a reputation for supporting its employees and their 

careers, so I was delighted to secure the role. And since starting, the team 

have been very welcoming and have enabled me to settle in quickly, so 

they are practicing what they preach.” 

My wife and I have started thinking seriously about adoption, so we 

spoke to the agency, but unfortunately no-one wanted to take our kids. 

The Rock was the most successful wrestler in the history of 

WWE before finally being beaten by a mysterious character 

known only as ‘The Paper’. 

My mum carried on working as a librarian when she was 

pregnant with me. Unfortunately I was three weeks overdue, which cost 

her 20p. 

6th June 9am - 1pm at Arup, 

Birmingham 

Midlands Infrastructure 

Best Practice & Pipeline 

Opportunities 

Join us for a dynamic and insightful morning at the CE Midlands 

Infrastructure Conference, where industry leaders converge to explore 

the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping our region’s 

infrastructure landscape. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to 

connect, learn, and collaborate with key experts in the infrastructure 

sector. Reserve your spot now! 

Members £25 plus VAT/Non-Members £50 plus VAT. 

Timings 

9.00am Registration & networking 

9.30. Welcome Mark Lyddon, Turner & Townsend & Chair CE Midlands 

Infrastructure Forum 

9.40am KEYNOTE SPEAKER: JENNIFER CHARLSON, IPA 

10.00am First Client session consisting of three clients: 

Nitesh Alagh, Severn Trent Water 

Stephen Barker, Birmingham Airport 

Tawhida Y. - Multi-Modal Network Resilience, Midlands Connect 

11.00am - Tea/Coffee & networking 

11.30am - Second Client session consisting of three clients: 

Robin Lapish - HS2 

Highways England (TBC) 

12.30pm - Productivity project update by Adrian Jones, Orbiz 

12.50pm - Concluding remarks by Cem Budak, Arup 

1.00pm - Light lunch 

Keynote Speaker: Dr Jennifer Charlson 

Jennifer is the Modern Methods of Construction Programme Manager and 

TIP Delivery Manager at the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) 

and she will be discussing Transforming Infrastructure 

Performance: Roadmap to 2030 

To book, visit: https://www.cemidlands.org/event/midlands-infrastructurebest-practice-pipeline-opportunities/ 

Leicestershire Builder Magazine 

Published By: Builder Magazines PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT 

Tel: (01530) 244069 

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 (2,500 copies) 

• Through trade counters of local merchants (approx. 1,000 copies) 

SUBSCRIPTIONS: £20 PER YEAR (No VAT) 

TO SUBSCRIBE: CALL 01530 244069 and leave your details, or subscribe via our 

Website. We’ll invoice you later. 

Printed in Ellistown by: Norwood Press 

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

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily 

those of the Editorial/Production Team. 

The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication 

does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, 

methods or policies. Builder Magazines cannot be held 

responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all 

of which are accepted in good faith. 

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information 

in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss 

or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. 

Builder Magazines reserves the right to amend, shorten or 

refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for 

publication. All property details contained within this magazine 

are to be regarded as being for outline guidance only. All 

potential interested parties are requested to check individual 

availability of premises for accuracy of details with the relevant 

selling agents before proceeding further. 

For details of our Advertising Rates: 

visit www.buildermagazines.co.uk 

I took a poll recently and 100% of people were quite annoyed that their tent had fallen down.


Baumit research shows that 

more homeowners are switching 

to External Wall Insulation 

RESEARCH by 

Baumit indicates 

that homeowner 

awareness 

of, and use of 

External Wall 

Insulation 

(EWI), is the 

highest that it 

has ever been. 

31% of homeowners 

are now aware of the benefits of external wall insulation, according to an 

Ipsos survey commissioned by Baumit in March this year. 

The findings come at a time when energy bills over the last two years 

have been at the highest ever recorded. 

The reason for the growing awareness of EWI is that more homeowners 

are looking for effective ways of improving energy efficiency. 

According to the Ipsos survey, 35% of homeowners now say that energy 

efficiency is the main reason why they choose to carry out improvements. 

Baumit will be commissioning an annual survey to track awareness of EWI 

and sentiment of homeowners when it comes to improvements. 

John Harrup, Head of Marketing at Baumit, said: “Although the findings 

are encouraging and demonstrate that energy efficiency is a major 

consideration for homeowners, there is still some way to go in the ‘Fabric 

First’ mindset. 

EWI is a great way to offset energy price rises and future proof homes for 

any volatility in costs over the coming years. However, the survey shows 

homeowners are twice as likely to consider replacing the boiler or fitting 

solar panels before ensuring the house is not losing heat through the walls.” 

John added: “Breathable external wall insulation is one of the most 

effective ways of improving a home’s energy efficiency without losing 

internal living space. That is important because when it comes to selling a 

house, square footage and running costs are extremely important in both 

adding value and attracting potential homebuyers.” 

As well as creating energy efficient homes, Baumit breathable external 

wall insulation creates beautiful buildings where people want to live. 

A good example is Kings Knoll, a 1930’s Art Deco, Grade 2 Listed building 

situated on the River Deben in Suffolk. The family home was transformed 

using Baumit EWI, whilst retaining the original architectural features. The 

property now benefits from a 100mm Baumit Wood Fibre EWI system to 

improve the energy efficiency. It was finished with Baumit SilikonTop, Life 

Colour 0879, also known as Ceramic White. 

Baumit Breathable EWI also creates healthier homes by allowing moisture 

generated from everyday activities such as cooking and bathing to escape 

to the outside. This reduces mould growth and with it the airborne detritus 

that it produces. 

For more information on Baumit EWI, visit: https://baumit.co.uk/products/ 

external-wall-insulation 

Church hall and land in Ockbrook 

SDL Property 

Auctions are 

offering for sale 

BY AUCTION a 

freehold site with 

a timber framed 

building currently 

used as a Church 

Hall. 

The 0.45 acre site – at Victoria Avenue, Ockbrook, Derby DE72 3RL – 

comprises a large car park and a lawned area in the middle of which is the 

existing building. 


start. Guide Price: £150,000+ plus fees. 


advertising 

rates 

ADVERT SIZE PRICE 

sixteenth 

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These prices are PER INSERTION. 

10% Discount If You Book Three or More 

Call 01530 244069 - info@buildermagazines.co.uk 

Dolphins who die without any money are given a porpoise funeral.

CALL US TODAY 

0116 246 0808 

THE PERFECT SECURITY SOLUTION 

Magtec Electric Gates Ltd can provide you with the perfect perimeter security solution, 

from automated barriers to gates and bollards. 

BARRIERS 

GATES 

TURNSTILES 

BOLLARDS 

Magtec offers a wide range of security propositions to suit your business needs. 

Our specialist team are here to help you customise your bespoke requirements, from survey, 

civil and installation work, to project completion and maintenance. 

Interested? Don’t hesitate to contact Justin West on 

justin@magtecfabs.com or pick up the phone: 07384 893042 

Magtec Electric Gates, 25 Highmeres Road, Leicester, LE4 9LZ 

www.magtecelectricgates.co.uk 

APPROVED INSTALLERS FOR:

MAY 2024 LEICESTERSHIRE BUILDER MAGAZINE ONLINE

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