April 2021 issue of Leicestershire Builder Magazine by Michael Wilkinson

LEICESTERSHIRE

BUILDER Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@buildermagazines.co.uk • Web: www.buildermagazines.co.uk • APRIL 2021

Derelict hospital accommodation to become new homes £10.5 MILLION is due to be invested in buying over 170 derelict accommodation units and transforming them into muchneeded affordable housing.

Leicester City Council has approved the purchase of the 174 units of former nurses’ accommodation at Hospital Close, near Leicester General Hospital, so they can be converted into 154 new affordable homes for city residents. The agreement sees the city council taking ownership of the disused buildings from the University Hospitals of Leicester (UHL), so work can begin on bringing them back into use. The cost of the scheme will be covered using money from Right to Buy receipts along with some borrowing, the costs of which will in turn be paid back by rental income from the houses. Unused Right to Buy money is returned to the Government unless it is spent, so housing schemes such as this ensure the money is reinvested locally. Work is likely to begin on refurbishing and converting the units over the coming weeks, with the first of them likely to be ready for occupation from autumn 2021. The completed homes will comprise a series of three-bedroomed semi-detached houses, along with some one and two-bed flats. Some of the blocks currently have shared facilities, but these will be converted into the smaller flats. The next stages of work will involve detailed layouts of the new homes, and appointing a contractor for the building work.

Plans to transform former Debenhams into over 300 apartments submitted HAMMERSON, owner and manager of the flagship destination Highcross, has submitted plans to redevelop the former Debenhams store at Highcross, St Peter’s Lane, Leicester, into new homes for rent.

Hammerson has worked jointly with private-rentedsector specialist Packaged Living, who has extensive experience of bringing forward high quality PRS schemes, to develop the application. The submission follows a virtual public consultation which took place at the end of last year. The consultation ran for ten days and feedback saw over 80% of consultees supporting the proposed regeneration. The development, designed by CRTKL, would see the former Debenhams department store at Highcross transformed into new homes for local residents, as well as providing major improvements to enliven East Bond Street, where the entrance will be located. On completion, the scheme will provide over 300 new homes and an improved public realm for the city alongside bespoke resident amenities including a roof garden. Packaged Living, the bespoke build-to-rent operator and developer, has been appointed as development manager, enabling Hammerson to utilise Packaged Living’s in-house investment, development and operational capabilities. This project is consistent with Hammerson’s target to be Net Positive for carbon emissions, water, resource use and socio-economic impacts by 2030. In addition to supporting up to 800 jobs on site and in the supply chain during the construction phase, Hammerson has worked closely with Packaged Living to minimise both embodied and operational carbon emissions for the scheme and to ensure it is resilient to climate risk.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Phase Two of Ashton Green site starts

WORK has started on a second phase of house building at a landmark regeneration site in the north of Leicester.

Leicester City Council has contracted Kier Living to lead development on the next parcel of housing development at Ashton Green – a major project to create a community of up to 3,000 much-needed new homes, along with community and health facilities, employment land and retail. Kier Living will deliver 307 family homes, including affordable housing, on a 37-acre site off Bevan Road, on the eastern edge of the scheme between Beaumont Leys and Thurcaston. It will include a range high-quality two to five-bedroomed properties, designed to meet the environmental standards of required for Ashton Green as a sustainable development. It will also include around 13 acres of open space, sustainable drainage solutions and protected wildlife corridors. Work will initially involve around eight weeks of preparatory and access works to create temporary access to the site from Bevan Road and Churchbell Way. Construction of the first homes is expected to begin by mid-spring and Kier hopes to be able to market the new homes for sale from Summer 2021. Kier Living’s involvement is a major milestone for the Ashton Green development and follows the completion of the first phase of house building, which saw 101 new properties built by Morris Homes. Alongside this, work on a major £10million highway infrastructure scheme to unlock further development land at Ashton Green is progressing well. This follows a successful bid by the city Council for a share of the government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, which aims to help unlock potential for new housing development. The highways work – which is being carried out by Galliford Try under contract to the city council – is due to be complete by autumn 2021 and will open up access to three further parcels of land for future housing development. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Ashton Green is an essential part of the city’s commitment to building the 30,000 new homes needed in Leicester over the next ten to fifteen years, and it will make huge contribution to local economic growth. “I am very proud that this hugely ambitious project has reached another major milestone with work now beginning on a new phase of work to build over 300 new homes. We are excited to have Kier Living onboard to deliver this exciting development.” Darren Humphreys, regional director for Kier Living Central, comments: “We are delighted to have been contracted to deliver the second phase of development at Ashton Green. We look forward to contributing to this exciting new community and deliver more high quality, sustainable housing for the local area.” Leicester City Council is the principal landowner and promoter of the Ashton Green development, which is a mixed-use urban extension on a 320-acre greenfield site to the north of Leicester.

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Leicestershire Homebuilder Backs Long-Standing Community Charity With £500 Donation

AS PART OF its Community Fund scheme, David Wilson Homes East Midlands has contributed £500 to MRC Community Action; a Coalville-based charity which supports local people in and around North West Leicestershire.

In reaching out to its local communities, the leading developer has made the donation to the charity to help provide accessible community facilities, services and positive social involvement. Paul Fagan, Manager of MRC Community Action, said: “We want to ensure that the people who use MRC Community Action’s facilities and services continue to receive the very best of support and the £500 donation from David Wilson Homes has made this possible. “Donations such as the one made by the David Wilson Homes’ Community Fund enables us to progress with projects at a time when our revenues have been severely impacted by the ongoing pandemic.” The charity, which has been serving the local community for more than 30 years, was named after Marlene Reid of Whitwick who died in 1986 whose own disability inspired her to pioneer local voluntary services. The contribution from David Wilson Homes was used toward upgrading the charity’s community hall which will be utilised for a

The charity’s emergency foodbank has been helping local people in need during the pandemic variety of purposes after restrictions are lifted, such as a new youth provision and a food market selling produce that would otherwise be thrown away to reduce food waste. John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson East Midlands, said: “As a leading homebuilder, we strive to support the communities around our developments as much as possible. “It has been a difficult time for all and we are pleased to support MRC Community Action’s excellent work through this tough time with our Community Fund scheme.” MRC Community Action provided facilities and services before the pandemic such as a children’s softplay area, second hand furniture warehouse, charity shop and community transport services which included regular trips to supermarkets and local landmarks running all year round. The charity is also part of the ‘Keep Safe’ scheme developed by Leicestershire County Council, meaning it can provide temporary havens and offer immediate reassurances to people who are feeling vulnerable, upset, scared or distressed in the town centre. For more information about MRC Community Action, visit www.mrc. uk.net/.

To Advertise In Leicestershire Builder, call Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069. Advert rates are on page 20.

Dreamt I was eating a curry last night. When I woke up, my pilau was missing.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Cut the VAT on heritage and traditionally built buildings THE NATIONAL Federation of Builders (NFB) has been calling for a VAT reduction on home repairs for well over a decade and will continue to do so; however, NFB Heritage has been considering the implication of such a cut on listed and traditional buildings and recommends that a VAT cut should start with traditional and heritage build.

A heritage focused cut will produce better traditional building custodians, while helping the Government meet its commitment to local listing and historic Britain. It will help the UK meet its zero carbon targets by appropriately retrofitting the least energy efficient buildings and stimulate a pipeline of opportunity for heritage and traditional build experts, material retrofit producers and the next generation of desperately needed traditional and retrofitting apprentices. Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “The greatest challenge to the UK’s retrofitting agenda is its 500,000 listed buildings, 1.2 million homes in conservation zones and 7 million properties with solid walls. Yet these buildings are put in constant jeopardy by inappropriate, cheaper works. This means that non-Listed traditional buildings are often retrofitted or refurbished with non-traditional building materials, causing lasting harm.” The high cost of sustainable products is a major barrier. Traditional wooden windows and doors, which are the most energy efficient, sustainable material and should be used in all homes, can last more than six times longer than UPVC but cost up to six times as much. Many people therefore opt for heritage looking UPVC, despite needing to be replaced much sooner and using unsustainable materials. Many traditional building works experience prohibitive costs, so do not get completed correctly or at all, such as: irregular joist sizes; the correct style external wall insulation; mechanical ventilation and damp proofing Clare Watson, chair of NFB Heritage underlined the need for heritage and traditional works to see a VAT cut. “Materials are only half the battle of well-done preservation and retrofit works of this type using high skilled labour is becoming increasingly niche. We therefore also need to reduce the burden on those training and retaining our traditional build and heritage experts. We call on the Government to cut the VAT on specific heritage materials and works to 0%; the same rate demolition and new build sees. The heritage sector will work with the Government to identify which traditional building materials and products would qualify for the cut. This challenge is enduring; therefore, we urge the Government to use its March budget to put the wheels in motion and protect our most complex to retrofit buildings and move closer to meeting our zero carbon ambitions.”

William Davis Homes goes hi-tech to counter COVID

Building work completes on Coalville’s Newmarket BUILDING WORK on a new, modern indoor market in Coalville is complete with the final touches now being added ahead of a planned opening when Covid-19 restrictions allow.

The opening of Newmarket will mark an important step in Coalville’s regeneration journey, which is a firm district council priority. The council’s recent 2021/22 budget outlined that a further £3 million will be invested into Coalville over the next three years. Until Newmarket opens, Coalville’s current indoor market will remain open to the small numbers of traders that sell essentials, as has been the case throughout the latest lockdown. While many of the stalls are now reserved there are still spaces for new traders in Newmarket, especially caterers looking to provide exciting international cuisine.

ONE YEAR after the first COVID lockdown in the UK, virtual reality has now transformed the way people buy new home, according to Loughborough-based house builder William Davis Homes.

New figures show thousands of people – an average of more than 290 unique visitors a week – have used virtual reality tours on the company’s interactive website to teleport themselves into a virtual show home, since coronavirus restrictions in March 2020 led to the initial closure of on-site show homes. Thanks to the latest technology involving CGI, visitors to the William Davis Homes website can now immerse themselves in a 360-degree experience to explore virtual show homes, customise internal features and buy off-plan before a brick is laid. They can also view the kitchen colour scheme and bathroom tiles. William Davis Homes has teamed up with the digital media experts EyeSiteView, who specialise in creating immersive interactive experiences. They use the same type of CGI technology featured in video games. The head of EyeSiteView, Tony Buck, says the aim is not to replace the role of sales staff but for the technology to work alongside them to enhance the customer’s experience.

I was out for dinner when the chap at the table next to me ordered 27Oz of wine. I thought, “He’s having a carafe.”

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Owl Homes MELTON OFFICES WITH CONSENT FOR 11-BED HMO Work commences

Leicester City Mr Odedra (c/o Agent: Design Studio Architects Limited, Regent House, 7 Upper King Street, Leicester LE1 6XB) – Conversion of a residential dwelling into 4 apartments – at 6 Overton Road, Leicester LE5 0JA. Highcross Shopping Centre Ltd (c/o Agent: Tanya Jordan, RPS, 7th Floor, 20 Farringdon Street, London EC4A 4AB) – Demolition of vacant retail store together with removal of existing car park spaces; redevelopment comprising residential units and commercial floorspace over lower ground, upper ground and up to 14 upper storeys together with access, parking, cycle parking, refuse and amenity landscaping – at Former Debenhams, Highcross, 20 St Peter’s Lane, Leicester. Mr Shiraz Karim (c/o Agent: Jonathan Richmond-Saint, JRS, 61 Linden Drive, Leicester LE5 6AJ) – Conversion from one terraced property to 2 studios, plus a rear extension – at 28 Mill Hill Lane, Leicester LE2 1AH. Morris Homes (c/o Agent: Rob Buckland, Morland House, 15 Davy Court, Castle Mound Way, Rugby CV23 0UZ) – Construction of 102 dwellings with associated infrastructure, pumping station, public open space and nature reserve – at Franklyn Fields, Lutterworth Road, Leicester. Leicester City Council (c/o Agent: Jonathan Pritchard, Stride Treglown, Treglown Court, Dowlais Road, Cardiff CF24 5LQ) – Change of use from day centre/office use to education, including demolition and external alterations to Grade II Listed Building – at The Rowans, College Street, Leicester LE2 0JH. Mr Darren Kirk (c/o Agent: Hayward McMullan Architects Ltd, 67 Burton Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1DL) – Change of use from office/workshop and flat to 4 flats and one studio flat – at 44 Hawthorne Street, Leicester LE3 9FQ. Ms J Berridge (c/o Agent: Andy Sell, AJS Architectural Services, 156a Fosse Road North, Leicester LE3 5ES) – Change of use from six-bed house in multiple occupation to 5 self-contained flats and single storey rear extension – at 43 Glenfield Road, Leicester LE3 6AU.

SDL Property Auctions are offering for sale BY AUCTION an end-of-terrace three-storey former office building with planning consent for the creation of an 11-bedroomed House of Multiple Occupation.

The building – 9 Burton Street, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 1AE – is located centrally along Burton Street within an area of mainly up market commercial buildings, directly opposite St Mary’s Church and the Crown Public House. Based on current demand, the selling agents feel that a fully-let 11-bed HMO, finished to a high standard, could produce circa £63,000 per annum in this location.Interested parties are advised to inspect the legal pack and the planning documents via the Melton Borough Council planning portal via ref. number 19/00423/FUL. For sale by auction on Thursday 29th April 2021 starting at 10.30am. Guide Price: £250,000 plus fees. Visit the SDL Property Auctions website for more information at www. sdlauctions.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS: If you’re selling building land or development properties, email details to us and we’ll include a FREE mention in the magazine. Thanks!

on 80-home Desford development

WORK HAS commenced on a new Owl Homes development off Peckleton Lane in Desford.

The development, which will be known as Earls Court, will comprise of 80 homes with a mix of 1 to 4 bedrooms, which will include 8 shared ownership and 24 affordable rent properties. Earls Court is the largest development to date for Tamworthbased Owl Homes.

Bloor Homes celebrates five star HBF rating

DURING 12 MONTHS of uncertainty and change, the housebuilding sector has continued to deliver.

As testament to its commitment to providing quality homes and exceptional customer service amid the circumstances created by the pandemic, Bloor Homes has been recognised by the HBF (Home Builders Federation). For the third consecutive year, the housebuilder has been awarded 5-star builder status in the National New Home Customer Satisfaction Survey. Mark Powell, Group Sales and Marketing Director at Bloor Homes commented: “Despite the lockdowns and restrictions across the UK, we have strived to ensure our customers continue to see the same high levels of quality and service that they would always expect from us. We are incredibly proud to achieve a 5-star rating for a third year, particularly after the extraordinary twelve months we’ve all lived through. “Our teams have changed the way they work with our customers, and the 5-star status is recognition of their adaptability and dedication to provide the same consistently high standard of service.” The HBF Star Rating Scheme awards stars for customer satisfaction based on results from an independent survey of homeowners who have bought a new or newly converted home in the previous 12 months survey period. Bloor Homes currently has nine developments across the Midlands region and more information on its homes can be found at www. bloorhomes.com

Went to the taxi driver reunion. Everyone turned up half an hour late.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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Tel: 0116 2853 777 Leema Technologies Limited. The Warehouse, 1a Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL I have a device in my kitchen which makes smoothies that make me think heaven is a place on earth. Blender Carlisle.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Springbourne Homes Launch School Partnership

Ore Operations Ltd (c/o Agent: Mrs Megan Bracha, CBRE Limited, Toronto Square, Leeds LS1 2HJ) – Notification of demolition of former care home and associated outbuildings – at 22-24 Mauricare Residential Home, Fosse Road Central, Leicester LE3 5PR. Mr Deb (c/o Agent: Andrew Lennard, Perfect Planning Architectural Services Ltd, Office 1F, Rugby House, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4FU) – Demolition of existing garage and construction of a single storey rear extension plus alterations to form 3 flats – at 120 Fosse Road South, Leicester LE3 0JT. AFSS Investment Ltd (c/o Agent: Mr M Imtiaz, Architecture365 Ltd, 20 Lynmouth Road, Leicester LE5 1NA) – Change of use from house to 2 flats – at 72 Lambert Road, Leicester LE3 2BN. Mr Yasin Tarmohamed (c/o Agent: Yasin Tarmohamed, 30 Cloughton Road, Leicester LE5 1GR) – Change of use from house to 3 flats – at 138 Beatrice Road, Leicester LE3 9FG.

AWARD-WINNING developer Springbourne Homes has announced it is linking up with a leading Leicestershire school to launch an exciting, pioneering partnership.

The Market Bosworth-based business is teaming up with the town’s Dixie Grammar School to offer pupils the chance to gain work experience and enjoy lessons in a workplace setting. Springbourne Homes chairman Adrian Burr says it’s an important new initiative in the heart of the local community where they’re currently building their luxury Hornsey Rise development. Adrian said: “I’m very excited about forging this relationship with Dixie Grammar School and further establishing Springbourne Homes as a part of the community. Dixie Grammar School Headmaster Richard Lynn (right), “It’s a perfect fit. The Junior School and Dixie Junior School Headmistress Emma Billington Nursery is located only a short walk from our (centre) and Springbourne Homes Chairman Adrian Burr flagship Hornsey Rise development while the Senior School is just down the road from our headquarters at Market Bosworth Marina. “We’re all looking forward to welcoming Dixie pupils to our Hornsey Rise development and to our eco-friendly offices at the Marina as we give them the opportunity to broaden their education within a real-life working environment. “The Market Bosworth area is the heartland of our business. It’s where we are based and where we have developed a number of sites, with successful builds in Sheepy Magna, Sheepy Parva, Carlton, Sibson, Norton Juxta and Barwell. “Some of the children may even live in a Springbourne Home so it’s really important for us to stay involved and stay in touch.” Dixie Grammar School is one of Leicestershire’s top schools. It has been rated “excellent” across the board by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, and enjoys a fantastic reputation for the excellent education it offers to pupils aged 3-18.

Boohoo Group plc (c/o Agent: Mark Percival, Architecture:M, Moravian College, 14 Fairfield Square, Droylsden, Manchester M43 6AD) – Change of use from mixed use of motor vehicle sales and display and motor vehicle repairs to general industrial use plus demolition of standalone MOT garage; construction of warehouse with offices, alterations to access and parking layout – at 301 Thurmaston Lane, Leicester LE4 9UX.

Coalville’s new £23 million leisure centre taking shape

Helen & Nichola Naftalin (c/o Agent: William Bates, 451 London Road, Leicester LE2 3JW) – Conversion of a six-bed dwelling house to form 4 separate dwelling houses – at 324 Victoria Park Road, Leicester LE2 1XF.

Some £2 million has so far been spent with local companies involved with the project, and 60 jobs had been created. The new centre, which is set to open towards the end of 2022. will feature: • An eight-lane, 25m main pool and a learner pool with moveable floor • A 120-station gym, plus 25 spin cycles and two exercise studios • A café with healthy eating options • An eight-court sports hall plus three squash courts • Changing rooms • A clip’n’climb indoor climbing wall • A sauna, steam and spa pool • A 250-space car park

AP Assets Ltd (c/o Agent: Declan Bristow, Sphere25, King House, 101135 Kings Road, Brentwood CM14 4DR) – Change of use from offices to 93 flats – at 60 Charles Street, Leicester LE1 1FB.

THE CONSTRUCTION of the £23 million complex, being built off Stephenson Way, in Coalville, is nearing the halfway stage.

Saw an advert for a really quiet guitar on eBay. No strings attached.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Hinckley & Bosworth Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Lee Staniforth, Staniforth Architects, The Warehouse, 1A Stamford Street, Leicester LE1 6NL) – Erection of 3 dwellings and associated access, parking, garaging, landscaping and external works – at Burbage Hall, 1 Aston Lane, Burbage, Leics. LE10 2EN. Mr & Mrs Wright (c/o Agent: Jason Brooks, Vagdia & Holmes Chartered Architects, 12A Coventry Canal Basin, St Nicholas Street, Coventry CV1 4LY) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at The Acorns, 236 Ashby Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1SW. Mr & Mrs Milner (c/o Agent: Lee Ward, Hayward Architects Ltd, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) – Conversion of 3 agricultural barns to mixed use office/retail units – at Hall Farm, Main Street, Newbold Verdon, Leicester LE9 9NL. Mr Joe Finney (c/o Agent: Alec Statham, Garland Stud, Bagworth Road, Barlestone, Nuneaton, Warks. CV13 0JA) – Change of use of agricultural land/gypsy site to 10 residential park homes – at Finneys Hill, Heath Road, Bagworth, Leics. LE67 1DG. Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Tim Bailey, Bailey Design Ltd, 43A Mitchells Court, Lower Gungate, Tamworth, Staffs. B79 7AS) – Demolition of existing barns and erection of 3 dwellings – at 8 Wood Lane, Norton Juxta Twycross, Atherstone, Warks. CV9 3QB. Mr D Mutton (c/o Agent: Lee Ward, Hayward Architects Ltd, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) – Change of use of Former Miners’ Welfare Club to single dwelling plus associated extensions and alterations – at Miners’ Welfare, Dragon Lane, Newbold Verdon, Leicester LE9 9NH. Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Myles Wild-Smith, Lichfields, Cornerblock, Cornwall Street, Birmingham B3 2DX) – Screening Opinion for residential development of up to 80 dwellings – at land to the south west of Lutterworth Road, Burbage, Leics.

New Home Surveys make it easier for consumers to buy or renovate homes FINDING OUT more about the condition of a property will be easier for consumers thanks to new home survey reports introduced in March by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), putting concise information with images and layperson explanations in the hands of homeowners and buyers.

LEVEL 3

Your survey report... Property address

Client’s name Consultation date (if applicable) Inspection date Surveyor’s RICS number

The level of service and what a client can expect from each report will also be made clearer, ensuring customers get the right survey for their property. With the COVID-19 pandemic making property transactions more challenging and a surge in interest created by the temporary stamp duty holiday, it’s even more critical that consumers get all the upfront information needed – especially when it comes to making one of the biggest decisions they may make in moving or renovating a home. The new format used in the reports ensures all information is set out clearly for the reader – including the use of more imagery so any defective parts of a property are easily identifiable and can be quickly fixed. The restyled reports come into force alongside the New Home Survey Standard which has already started to be adopted by RICS chartered surveyors since last year, which introduces new minimum requirements for property condition advice to be provided in a clear and jargon-free way as expected by clients and the public more widely. Louise Avery MRICS, Managing Director at Avery & Co, said: “There is definitely a lack of knowledge with consumers about what is included in a home survey. The new survey standard and reports allow RICS professionals to better explain the different types of survey product that are available.” “As a sole practitioner and small business owner the new home survey standard gives us a certain degree of freedom to use the products and add new services that consumers want in a way that we’ve not been able to do before.” Set over three levels, homeowners or buyers can clearly identify exactly which survey service they require to inspect a property – be it a toplevel inspection, an independent valuation or a more thorough and indepth inspection of the building, its services and grounds. They will be taken through the options by qualified Chartered Surveyors using their professional expertise and local knowledge. The four types of home survey report available are: RICS Home Survey Level 1: Using a simple ‘traffic light’ rating focusing on the condition of the property by rating the different parts of the building and flagging up any areas that need attention, identifies any risks and potential legal issues and highlights any urgent defects. Typically, the lowest priced of the surveys, it is aimed at conventional properties and newer homes. • RICS Home Survey Level 2 (survey): This is most suitable for conventional properties which are in reasonable condition. The report gives you more detailed information on the condition, which includes advice about repairs or any ongoing maintenance issues. • RICS Home Survey Level 2 (survey and valuation): The surveyor will complete the survey as above, however they will also include the surveyor’s professional opinion on the market value of the property. • RICS Home Survey Level 3: Essential for larger or older properties or if you’re planning major works. The most comprehensive report provides you with an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options. Ana Bajri, Senior Specialist for Property Standards at RICS, said: “A home survey is a vital part in making someone’s dream home theirs to own, as it provides a complete picture before contracts are signed. “The revamped reports ensure all the information critical to this process is easy to navigate, clearly presented in plain English, while using more visual images, is factual and provides a balanced perspective of the condition of the property.” RICS Home Survey – Level 3

Barn for conversion in Eastwell

SHOULER & SON are offering for sale a Grade II Listed ironstone barn for conversion.

The barn – at Eastwell, Near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire – has been granted planning permission (Refs: 20/00786/FUL & 20/00837/LBC) for conversion to a substantial dwelling of approx. 3,100 sq.feet. The barn is situated adjacent to Cross Roads Farm House a short distance from the village of Eastwell and will be accessed via Waltham Road. Eastwell is a rural village situated on the edge of The Vale of Belvoir to the North of Melton Mowbray and has good access to Melton Mowbray, Grantham Nottingham and Leicester. It is located in a beautiful position with delightful open views to both front and rear and has a southerly aspect to the rear. The Guide Price is £300,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Shoulers on 01664 560181 or email: housesales@shoulers. co.uk

Site for 3 dwellings in Bagworth

BERRYS Estate Agents are offering for sale a 0.89 acre development site with Outline Planning Consent (ref: 20/00287/OUT) for up to 3 dwellings. Berrys, its clients and any joint agents give notice that: 1. These particulars are prepared for the guidance only of prospective purchasers and are intended to give a fair overall description of the property but do not form part of any offer or contract. 2. Any information contained herein (whether in the text, plans or photographs) is given in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement or representation of fact. 3. Nothing in these particulars shall be deemed to be a statement that the property is in good condition or otherwise, that any service or facilities are in good working order, or that the necessary statutory requirements have been met.

4. The photographs appearing in these particulars show only a certain part and aspect of the property at the time when the photographs were taken. Certain aspects may have changed since the photographs were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed in the photographs. Furthermore no assumptions should be made in respect of parts of the property which are not shown in the photographs. 5. Any areas measurements or distances are approximate. 6. They are not authorised to make or give any representation or warranty whatsoever in relation to the property. 7. Purchasers must satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise.

The site – at 69 Station Road, Bagworth, Leics. LE671BJ – consists of three identifiable areas: the three-bed detached house with immediate garden (0.1 acre), the roadside garden with planning consent (0.31 acre) and the rear orchard of 0.48 acre. The Guide Price is £525,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Berrys on 01536 532376 or email: ketteringsales@berrys. uk.com

Was out the other day and got sprayed by a salt spreading truck. “Watch out!” I shouted through gritted teeth.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Sarah at Rippon Homes is enjoying life as a surveyor Unnamed Applicant (c/o Agent: Matthew Stocks, WSP, 3 White Rose Office Park, Millshaw Park Lane, Leeds LS11 0DL) – Creation of themed family adventure area including demolition works, earth works, external works to existing structures and extension to café, construction of aviary, installation of feature sculptures and animatronics and hard and soft landscaping – at Twycross Zoological Park, Burton Road, Norton Juxta Twycross, Atherstone, Warks. CV9 3PX. Mr A C Meller (c/o Agent: Housemartin Designs, The Carthouse, Charnells Court, Upperfields Farm, Swepstone, Leics. LE67 2SG) – Change of use of 2 agricultural outbuildings to form 2 dwellinghouses – at Agricultural Buildings, West of Odstone Road, Barton in the Beans, Leics. Mr Colin Burton (c/o Agent: Miss Katie Searle, HSSP Architects Ltd, Pera Business Park, Nottingham Road, Melton Mowbray, Leics. LE13 0PB) – Demolition of existing garage and erection of 2 detached dwellings with access, parking and amenity space – at 32 Heath Lane, Earl Shilton, Leics. LE9 7PB. Mr Peter Adcock (c/o Agent: David F Barnes Chartered Architect, 14 Pyeharps Road, Burbage, Leics. LE10 2JE) – Erection of 2 three-bed detached dwellings plus alteration to access and one additional access – at 45 Main Street, Bagworth, Coalville, Leics. LE67 1DN. Mr Andrew Cartwright (c/o Agent: Zoe Massey, Hayward Architects Ltd, 19 Station Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 1AW) – Residential development of 16 dwellings including surface water attenuation basin – at land west of 24 Orton Lane, Twycross, Leics. Mrs Susan Bennett (c/o Agent: David F Barnes Chartered Architect, 14 Pyeharps Road, Burnage, Leics. LE10 2JE) – Residential development of one pair of semi-detached dwellings – at 26 Hays Lane, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0LA. Loates (c/o Agent: Davidson House, Unit 17c, Meridian East, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1WZ) – Residential development of 41 dwellings and associated infrastructure – at land off Brookfield Road, Burbage, Leics. LE10 2LL.

MANSFIELD-based housebuilder, Rippon Homes, is supporting Junior Quantity Surveyor, Sarah Morris, build a fulfilling career in what is often perceived as a male dominated industry.

Affordable homes approved in Market Harborough

PLANS TO build 27 affordable new houses and bungalows on land north of Tymecrosse Gardens in Market Harborough have been approved.

26-year-old Sarah, who lives The plans include a mix of housing in Edwinstowe with her partner ranging from one to four-bedroom Arron, joined the company almost properties with on-site parking. two years ago and in that time has completed a Higher National The development will provide a Certificate (HNC) in Construction series of section 106 contributions, and the Built Environment and totalling approximately £170,000, to started a bachelor’s degree in cater for the needs of residents with Quantity Surveying and Commercial regards to nearby schools, children Management at Nottingham Trent and young people facilities and University. infrastructure provision. She entered the housing industry Sarah Morris, Junior Quantity There will also be open spaces and after taking an admin job at Wynbrook managed landscaping as part of the Surveyor at Rippon Homes to escape the unsociable hours of the development. hospitality industry and it was there she found an interest in surveying. “I met an amazing woman at Wynbrook who became a kind of mentor to me, she supported my ambitions so I was able to step into her role as a material buyer once she moved on which is where I discovered surveying. “Her confidence was inspiring and she taught me the importance of speaking up for myself, which is especially important in rooms where women aren’t as present. “She made me a strong believer in girl-power, which is something I’ve seen through my education too. As there have only been a few girls on my courses, we band together and are stronger for it.” PERSIMMON HOMES is The theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is “Choose to Challenge”, and Sarah is clear that it’s not just down to the women to rise to it. proposing to construct “Men play just as much part in supporting women in the industry, and the 41 homes on the disused team at Rippon has been incredible at that. My senior surveyor, Andrew Burgess Factory site, on Development Opportunity Linley, has been fantastic at offering assistance and advice at every Brookfield 4.5 hectares (11.0 acres), Colsterworth,Road, NG33 5JJ opposite a opportunity, and of course I’m so grateful for the company’s support in group of 40 three and fourbeginning my bachelor’s degree. bedroom properties that “I’ve been so lucky in the mentorship I’ve received so far in my career, it is currently building on helping me build the pillars to achieve my ambition of becoming a an area of brownfield land commercial manager one day. I’ve loved the chance to share the wisdom between Crimson Way and I’ve learned by mentoring younger members of the team, helping them the Hansom Cab pub. with college assignments so they too can build the career they dream of. The former factory site has been “To any women considering a career in the housebuilding industry, I’d say vacant for two years despite being don’t be afraid of it. It can be seen from the outside as an intimidating man’s marketed for business use. world, but there are fantastic people everywhere so reach out to them and don’t let anyone push you out.” Ian Dyke, Managing Director at Rippon Homes, added, “We’re really proud of Sarah; she’s achieved so much in the time she’s been with us, and has a very bright future ahead of her. At Rippon we are keen to challenge the notion that housebuilding is a man’s world and support our team in their ambitions.” For more information on Rippon Homes, visit www.ripponhomes.co.uk.

Application to build more houses on former factory site in Burbage

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Colsterworth site for 70 dwellings JH WALTER Estate Agents are offering for sale a residential development opportunity with the benefit of a resolution to grant Outline Planning Permission for up to 70 dwellings. The 11 acre site – Land West Of A1, North Of Bourne Road, Colsterworth, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG33 5JF - is currently arable land which has a frontage onto Bourne Road (A151). A resolution to grant outline planning permission for up to 70 dwellings has been achieved, subject to the resolution of a Section 106 agreement. The Guide Price is £2 million. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact John Elliott at JH Walter on 01522 504304 or email: johnelliott@ jhwalter.co.uk

Just opened the instruction booklet for my new ladder. It says “step one, then step two, then step three”...

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Melton Borough

Stephen George & Partners deliver £1.2m synagogue redevelopment in Leicester

Adrian Kerrison (c/o: Plumtree Homes, Plumtree Barn, Bradmore Lane, Plumtree, Nottingham NG12 5EW) – Application for approval of reserved matters for layout of 34 dwellings and appearance and scale of 5 dwellings in relation to outline consent 19/00859/OUT – at Field OS 6260, Canal Lane, Hose, Leics.

Harborough District Clarity Property Alpha Ltd (c/o Agent: Andy Moger, Unit 2, Eclipse Office Park, High Street, Staple Hill, Bristol BS16 5EL) – Outline application for an entry level exception site of 3 serviced plots for self-build and custom housebuilding discount market sale affordable housing (Revised scheme of 20/00651/OUT) – at land at West Lane, Billesdon, Leics. Mr Gerry Wright (c/o Agent: Jonathan Warner, 22 Brackendale Drive, Barby, Rugby CV23 8TJ) -Change of use of storage building to Micro-Brewery and Micro-Pub – at North Kilworth Wharf, Station Road, North Kilworth, Leics. LE17 6JB. Mulberry Property Developments Ltd (c/o Agent: Dr Christine Manley, Woods Hardwick Ltd, 15-17 Goldington Road, Bedford MK40 3NH) – Erection of 33 dwellings, associated car parking provision and ancillary works – at land at Coventry Road, Lutterworth, Leics. Mr Martin Measom (c/o Agent: Martyn Jones & Associates Ltd, The Reading Room, 33 Main Street, Medbourne, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 8DT) – Erection of 3 detached dwellings including demolition of existing storage buildings and creation of new access (Resubmission) – at land at junction of Hunts Lane, North End, Hallaton, Leics. Brooke House College (c/o Agent: Ms Nora Galley, Now Planning Ltd, South Park Studios, South Park, Sevenoaks TN13 1AN) – Change of use of the Angel Hotel to a residential education institution – at Angel Hotel, 37-38 High Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7AF.

STEPHEN GEORGE + Partners LLP (SGP) has completed a £1.2 million redevelopment and refurbishment of the Victorian Grade II listed Highfield Street Synagogue in Leicester.

SGP’s design creates a glazed foyer to link the existing Synagogue and teaching building together, with improved ancillary accommodation at the rear. The project was delivered under a Heritage Lottery Funded scheme for ‘Sharing Jewish Heritage in Leicester’. The mechanical and electrical systems were programmed with elements such as timer switches to avoid manual use of electricity on the Sabbath and during certain festivals. Rainwater harvesting took on an additional importance as the Mikvah, the Jewish ritual bath, had to have a natural water feed. The lift was a particular issue, as due to space restrictions, the design had to use a platform lift. Most models required the user to hold their hand down on a button, but to comply with aspects of the Jewish faith on certain occasions, SGP had to find the one company in the UK, specialists in equipment suitable for religious requirements, who could provide a lift that would operate without a person needing to touch it. The site itself added challenges to the build programme, being very restricted, with roads on two sides and a terrace and garages at the rear. As Principal Designer, SGP was responsible for preparing the extensive risk register and health and safety file, as well as planning access for equipment such as cranes and even negotiating with the neighbours to allow access by demolishing and rebuilding some adjacent garages.

Kingfisher fullyear profits skyrocket 634%

THE PARENT company of B&Q and Screwfix has cashed in on a DIY boom as millions of people stuck at home tried to improve their living conditions. Kingfisher said it had seen fullyear pre-tax profits balloon to £756 million in the 12 months to the end of January – a 634 per cent increase on the £103 million recorded last year. Since the end of January like-forlike sales have risen more than 24 per cent compared with the same period in 2020.

Barn for conversion in Welby near Grantham PYGOTT & CRONE are offering for sale an old barn with planning permission (ref: S18/1438) for conversion to a threebedroom property.

The property – Barn 2, Welby Warren, Welby, Grantham NG32 3AA – is being offered at a Guide Price of £230,000. For further details, contact Pygott & Crone on 01476 591414 or email: grantham@pygott-crone.com Barn 2, Welby Warren, Welby, Grantham, NG32 3AA

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Builders’ Problems SOLVED Mr Colin Hudson (c/o Agent: Mr Harrison McGibbon, Gibbon Structural Design, 7 Ashby Road, Ullesthorpe, Leics. LE17 5DN) – Erection of single storey extension to accommodate additional changing rooms to rugby club – at Lutterworth Rugby Football Club, Ashby Lane, Bitteswell, Leics. LE17 4LW Astley Fencing Ltd (c/o Agent: Stephen Mair, Andrew Granger & Co, Phoenix House, 52 High Street, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 7AF) – Outline application for redevelopment of timber yard to provide commercial buildings comprising B2 and B8 uses – at Astley Fencing Ltd, Arkwright Hill Farm, Lutterworth Road, Cosby, Leics. LE9 1RH. B Kholia (c/o Agent: Mrs Sally Wetherell, SW Architects, 30 Rockingham Road, Cottingham, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 8XS) – Conversion and change of use of retail units to 4 dwellings – at 136 Station Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6PW.

Rutland County S Rigby (c/o Agent: S+SA Architects, 1 Cardale Park, Beckwithhead Road, Harrogate HG3 1RZ) – Construction of new 30-bed care home and 6-bed care home with associated vehicular access and parking – at Site E7c, Hackamore Way, Barleythorpe, Rutland.

North West Leics Dean Westbury (c/o: Coleshill House, 1 Station Road, Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1HT) – Erection of steel framed building – at Pladis Ltd, Resolution Road, Ashby de la Zouch, Leics. Mr Vellam (c/o Agent: Richard Lee Project Planning, 29 Clonners Field, Nantwich CW5 7GU) – Extension to existing caravan park to include the siting of 13 park homes, offstreet parking and associated works – at St Christophers Park, St Christophers Road, Ellistown, Leics. Barclays (Coalville) Ltd (c/o Agent: 612 Properties Ltd, The Laurels, Berry Hill Lane, Donington Le Heath, Leics. LE67 2FB) – Erection of 3 bungalows to include access and parking – at land to the rear of Garfield Road, Hugglescote, Leics.

Understanding critical path programmes PROBLEM:

I work for a well known retailer as a building surveyor in the procurement department. I have recently read an article on delays in the construction industry and the importance of having a well-thought out construction programme from the outset, including identifying the activities on the critical path of the programme. I am now eager to start insisting on such detailed programmes from our contractors. However, given all my work is small works (ie, below £250,000), and the contractors tend to be SME’s, is it realistic to expect these contractors to understand the likes of critical path, critical path analysis, as-built versus asplanned, etc? I am also thinking about having programmes included in the contract documentation – is this a good idea?

Response:

Firstly, it is vital to understand the implications of including a programme as a contract document – if one were to be included, then every bar in that programme becomes a term of the contract and if a task is not carried out in accordance with the programme, that is a breach of contract; therefore, it is sensible to only include a start and completion date, and then to ensure that the contractor produces a master programme from the outset, which is then agreed and updated on a regular basis (the obligation of which can be included in the contract).

Michael Gerard

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

That said, although I do agree that CPA programmes are few and far between on small projects, that is not an excuse for the employer’s contract administrator to sit back and do nothing. Pre-tender qualification should include interrogating potential tenderers and contractors as to their management competency including the understanding and production of a properly constructed programme with logic and a CPA. If a contractor cannot demonstrate such a degree of competency, then the employer’s professional team has a duty to advise its client as to the risk such a contractor would be if it was awarded the contract. As to SME contractors really understanding critical paths etc, if a SME contractor is operating a building company that carries out work where the duration is counted in weeks as opposed to days, then the contract management staff of such SME contractors should have a good understanding of the value of programming and critical path, otherwise questions need to be asked by the employer’s professional team as to the risk such a contractor would pose if awarded a project – there should be no excuse from any size contractor (save for a one-man band), especially bearing in mind programme software is readily and cheaply available. The professional staff (in-house or external), has a duty to ensure its clients or its employer always selects a competent and experienced contractor relative to the work it is being asked to price for. If the work is merely maintenance, competency and skill levels of the contractor’s management will be different to a contractor working on a £250,000 refurbishment contract. © Michael Gerard 2021 The advice provided is intended to be of a general guide only and should not be viewed as providing a definitive legal analysis.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Mrs Claire Adian (c/o Agent: Mr Ashley Maxim, Indigo Architecture Ltd, Darley Abbey Stables, Abbey Yard, Darley Abbey, DE22 1DS) – Change of use from B8 to C3(a) to create 6 apartments to include the demolition of existing warehouse extension to side and rear to form off-street parking provision – at Dovecote, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2LH.

Blaby District Mr Singh (c/o Agent: Mr Patel, PO Box 10789, Leicester LE8 8EN) – Change of use of existing office to 5 one-bed flats – at Overton House, 43 Enderby Road, Blaby, Leicester LE8 4GD. Mr Rizwan Moledina (c/o Agent: Iain Garnell, mPerfect Planning Architectural Services Ltd, Office 1F, Rugby House, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leics. LE9 4FU) – Outline application for the erection of 6 dwellings – at land at 6 and rear of 10-12 Ashleigh Road, Glenfield, Leicester. Mr John Bryan (c/o Agent: Peter E Grundy, 17 Main Street, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester LE9 2AN) Change of use of the land to a roofing contractor’s yard including offices, warehousing and open air storage – at part of former Allotment Gardens, Desford Road, Lubbesthorpe, Leics. LE19 4AD. Venture Properties Group (c/o Agent: Miss Marie Stacey, Pegasus Group, Unit 4, The Courtyard, Church Street, Lockington, Derby DE74 2SL) – Erection of 16 dwellings with associated infrastructure, landscaping and access – at land to rear of 27-45 Avon Road, Braunstone Town, Leicester.

Charnwood Borough Mr G McHugh (c/o Agent: David Granger Design Ltd) – Erection of 2 detached dwellings – at land at Swan Street, Seagrave, Leics. LE12 7NQ. Mr Ajay Magon (c/o Agent: Archanaeum) – Demolition of existing buildings and construction of 22 new houses with associated landscaping and infrastructure – at 140-142 Knightthorpe Road, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 5JU.

Slash VAT on home upgrades and generate jobs, urge FMB and RICS A CUT IN VAT from 20% to 5% in home improvements over the next five years would create 345,000 new jobs and pump £51bn into the economy, according to new research.

CBI Economics analysis discovered the cut would offer an extra £25bn in goods and services to the UK economy at a cost of £2.8bn to the government in lower fiscal contributions. The survey, conducted for the Federation of Master Builders and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, found in 2021 the measure would create 64,000 jobs and offer a £9.5bn economic stimulus. Federation of Master Builders, FMB, chief executive Brian Berry urged the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, to introduce the cut to show he was serious about ‘levelling up’ across the UK. “A temporary tax cut will give a much-needed boost to small building firms, and unlock additional cash for households to spend on repairs and energy efficiency measures,” he said. Both SME builders and surveyors say the VAT reduction would make it easier for people to make energy efficiency changes to their homes and support the beleaguered green homes grant scheme. Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, RICS, UK MD Matthew Howell said: “If the government is serious in its desire to build back better and help level up the country then we have to be bold and do things differently. “Cutting VAT on home improvements is exactly the sort of fiscal measure which will have a long and positive consequence for the economy, helping to create jobs and opportunities in those areas and industries hit hard by the pandemic, and drive-up energy efficiency in many homes and buildings.” Both FMB and RICS claim the move would back both builders and surveyors grappling with skills and material shortages exacerbated by the pandemic and Brexit.

Older homes should be first in the queue However, the National Federation of Builders, NFB, has taken a more tailored approach urging the government to scrap VAT completely on home improvements on century-old and heritage homes. There are 9 million such homes in the UK accounting for just over a third of the UK’s 26m housing stock. NFB chief executive Richard Beresford said: “We believe this is the time to reduce carbon emissions in the hardest to retrofit properties; our traditional builds. Some have called on a VAT cut for all builds but this will not encourage better conservation practices and could encourage cheaper ones, and this is why we believe a VAT cut must target heritage and traditional works.” Historic England, Heritage Alliance, Craig Mackinlay MP, NFB Heritage and London Historic Building Trust have been calling for lifting the VAT burden on traditional building methods for some time.

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UK’s over65s demand BUNGALOW RENAISSANCE

THE NUMBER of bungalows being built in the UK has collapsed and is falling every year with just 1,833 bungalows built in 2020, warns McCarthy Stone, the UK’s leading developer and manager of retirement communities. This is equal to less than 1% of the new homes built in 2019/20.

In 2000, 9,347 bungalows were built, 80% more than today’s level. The drop is also noticeable in more recent years. In 2018, 2,418 bungalows were built, falling to just 2,384 in 2019. However, research by McCarthy Stone has found that demand for one-level living is on the rise: 70% of over-65s would consider moving to a bungalow[3]. This is equal to 8.4m people across the UK and indicates that in recent years, bungalow building rates have actually moved in the opposite direction to demand. This represents a 10-percentage point increase in demand since 2019[5] highlighting the evergrowing appeal of low-storey housing in later life. The impact of lockdown and the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed towards older people considering moving to a more suitable property, including bungalows. The appetite for bungalows is explained by multiple factors, including the desire to live on one level (57%), the easier maintenance (43%) and being much better suited to older people (39%) than conventional houses. Millions of over-65s also support the building of bungalows designed exclusively for older people: 71% agree that there should be more bungalows built exclusively for this group. This is up from 65% in 2019. Planning rules to date have limited the viability of bungalows, favouring high-density developments instead. McCarthy Stone would like to see current planning legislation reconsidered to help cater for the increasing market demand for housing designed specifically for older people, including bungalows. This could be in the form of proactive policies, including the allocation of age-restricted bungalow-only sites in Local Plans and the obligation to provide age-restricted bungalows as part of the housing mix in larger scale developments.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

FOUR NEW RECRUITS JOIN RG+P’S THRIVING QS TEAM David Wilson Homes (c/o: Harry White and Anthony Raymond Shuttlewood) – Outline planning application for up to 170 dwellings – at land east of Cossington Road, Sileby, Leics. Mr B Finney Snr (c/o Agent: David Granger Design Ltd) – Erection of 3 single storey dwellings – at land at Shelley Street, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 5LB. Mrs Hilary Hale (c/o Agent: WA Architecture) – Change of use from offices to mixed use, consisting of office use on the basement and ground floor, with residential use on the first and second floors – at Limehurst House, Bridge Street, Loughborough, Leics. Mr Sandip Chauhan (c/o Agent: Volta Designs) – Change of use of building from office/storage space and three flats to 6 flats – at 4 Sandford Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2JY. Owl Partnerships Ltd & NCHA (c/o Agent: Marrons Planning) – Full planning application for residential development of up to 55 dwellings with associated infrastructure, access and areas of open space – at land off Homefield Road, Sileby, Leics. LE12 7LZ. Mr Thomas Dillarstone (c/o Agent: William Davis) – Reserved matters application for residential development of 133 dwellings within Phase 1 of outline permission P/13/2498/2 – at land north east of Leicester. Jack Casey (c/o Agent: Fisher German) – Outline application for redevelopment of Sturdee Poultry Farm for up to 60 residential units and associated infrastructure – at Sturdee Poultry Farm, Sowters Lane, Burton on the Wolds, Leics. LE12 5AL. Linedota Architects – Change of use from an art college to a mixed use arts complex – at Loughborough Generator Building, Packe Street, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 3EZ. Sowden Group Ltd (c/o Agent: Landmark Planning Ltd) – Outline application for residential development for up to 28 dwellings – at land off Moor Lane, Loughborough, Leics. LE11 1FR. Swithland Homes Ltd (c/o Agent: Aitchison Raffety) – Erection of 9 dwellings including access, parking and landscaping – at land to the rear of 43 Westfield Drive, Loughborough, Leics.

THE QS TEAM at multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p has welcomed four new team members following a sustained period of growth.

Najmul Ahmed and Russell Mumford join as quantity surveyors in the Leicester and Birmingham teams respectively while Haroon Masood and Alice Nash have commenced one year work placements as assistant quantity surveyors. “Despite the challenges of the last year, the team’s rg+p’s Birmingham associate, Arron Iliffe (far right) with new recruits workload increased by 10%,” Alice Nash and Russell Mumford. explains cost and project management director, Mitch Dale. “This is attributed to our solid reputation within the affordable housing sector, appointment onto five major frameworks including the £10.4m EN:Procure Consultancy framework and a series of significant projects wins including a residential development in Bulwell, Nottingham for Godwin Developments; a commercial development at Kings Cross for Kier; a mixed use scheme in Clapham for MTVH as well as almost 600 new homes on sites in Rugby, Stowmarket and Upton. “Considering all these factors, it was essential to commence a recruitment programme for both experienced and trainee professionals and we are now very pleased to welcome Najmul, Russell, Haroon and Alice to the team.” Adding further to rg+p’s QS success is the news that the practice’s Birmingham team leader, Arron Iliffe has completed his RICS qualification and is now fully Chartered. As a result, Arron has been promoted to an associate at rg+p and also commenced a mentoring programme to Joining rg+p’s QS team in Leicester are Haroon assist aspiring RICS students from Nottingham Trent Maqsood (left) and Najmul Ahmed (right) University. Mitch adds: “Like many businesses, the last 12 months has meant we’ve experienced huge changes to the way we work but what’s encouraging is how many of these were positive. We’re extremely proud of the team’s collective and individual achievements and with these new recruits now in place, we can concentrate our efforts on consolidating our growth, and broadening our work in London and the South East as well as in other sectors, particularly the fast-growing build to rent market.” rg+p’s QS experience encompasses project management, cost consultancy, principal designer, employer’s agent, clerk of works and health and safety consultancy. The team works nationwide from its studios in Birmingham, London and Leicester and is currently undertaking projects from Blackpool to Suffolk.

Development site in Bagworth FINE & COUNTRY are offering for sale a development site with Outline Planning Permission (ref: 19/01130/OUT) for 7 units of three and four bedroom detached houses, backing onto open countryside.

The land – at Main Street, Bagworth, Leicestershire LE67 1DN – is being offered with a guide price of £750,000. For more information, or to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Anita Adams at Fine & Country Woodhouse Eaves on 01509 891398 or 07973 109536. Development Site The Silk Forest Main Street

Bagworth Coalville Leicestershire LE67 1DN I’m writing a song about getting my door lock replaced. There’s a key change at the end.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Where 13,000 homes could be built across Leicestershire

AS REPORTED in the Leicester Mercury, planners are assessing where some 13,000 homes could potentially be built in four new large developments in Leicestershire.

Sites near Blaby, Stoney Stanton, Elmesthorpe and by the M1 between Lutterworth and Leicester are being looked at by officials trying to work out how to meet Government-set targets for houses building over the next 20 years and more. Blaby District Council has stressed no decisions have been made about any of the possible developments at this stage but they are part of a discussion about what might be in its next local plan - a long term strategy to try to accommodate the predicted population growth. The four potential strategic sites planners are looking at are: • Whetstone Pastures - Between 3,500 and 6,000 homes are being planned by either site of the M1 by developer Tritax Symmetry on a site spanning some 1,000 acres of farmland • West of Stoney Stanton - A further 5,000 homes could be built west of the village near Junction 2 of the M69 in an area where Leicestershire County Council has a large land holding • Hospital Lane, Blaby - Again the county council owns land in this area which could accommodate around 1,000 homes • Elmesthorpe - Approximately 1,100 homes could be built north of the railway line between Leicester and Hinckley Previous proposals to build at Hospital Lane, Blaby, has been turned down before by the district council and there is already fierce local opposition to the idea of Whetstone Pastures. The final local plan for the district still has to go through public consultation then get approved by a Government planning inspector. After that, any specific application will be considered individually by the council and subject to further consultation before it is approved or rejected.

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

David Wilson Homes reveals locations for 2021 apprentice intake following 2,000 applications Mr Andrew Bamber (c/o Agent: Andrew Hiorns Ltd) Development of up to 120 new dwellings – at Main Street, Woodthorpe, Loughborough, Leics.

Rugby Borough BGM Developments (c/o Agent: Rebecca Walker, Chapman Design LLP, Lelleford House, Coventry Road, Rugby CV23 9DT) – Change of use of building to create 9 apartments plus parking, bin and cycle storage – at 241 Sedlescombe Park, Dunchurch Road, Rugby CV22 6HP Eastdene Investments Ltd (c/o Agent: Mrs Sally Stroman, APC Planning, Burlington House, 369 Wellingborough Road, Northampton NN1 4EU) – Single and two storey extension to the west wing comprising 11 ensuite bedrooms, demolition of air raid shelter to accommodate new sun room, plus single storey kitchen extension – at Thurlaston Meadows Care Home, Main Street, Thurlaston CV23 9JS Punch Partnerships (PML) Ltd (c/o Agent: Mrs Vilday, CPC Planning Consultants, Unit 3 Broadbridge Business Centre, Delling Lane, Bosham, West Sussex PO18 8NF) – Construction of 2 semi-detached chalet bungalows – at The Black Horse, 43 The Green, Bilton, Rugby CV22 7LZ. Rugby Property Assets Ltd (c/o Agent: Michael Sprague, MJB Technical Services Ltd, The Hub@Gladstone, Broadleys, Clay Cross, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S45 9JN) – Conversion of first and second floor of existing residence to 5 apartments – at 49 Church Street, Rugby CV21 3PT. Rugby Borough Sports Trust (c/o Agent: Shane Quinn, QN Design, 41 Dunton Road, Broughton Astley, Leics. LE9 6NA) – Proposed building to comprise a ground floor fitness room and first floor education centre – at Rugby Town Junior Football Club, Kilsby Lane, Hillmorton, Rugby CV21 4PN.

East Northants Mr Sandip Noghan (c/o Agent: Jon Sidey, Sidey Design Architecture, 10 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, Northampton NN10 8BT) – Change of use from offices to 2 flats – at 1 The Square, Raunds, Northants.

COALVILLE-BASED David Wilson Homes East Midlands has revealed where its new apprentices will be based as part of its objective to boost local employment.

David Wilson Homes made the announcement during National Apprenticeship Week in mid-February that it will be creating six new roles to develop talent in the construction industry. Parent company, Barratt Developments, received over 2,000 applications for its apprenticeships this year which is an acknowledgement of the high regard that Barratt is held in and the confidence young people and career changers have in the John Reddington homebuilding sector. The new trade apprentices, specialising in bricklaying and site carpentry, will be based in the homebuilder’s operational areas of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire. In Leicestershire, each new recruit will be based at one of David Wilson Homes’ developments including Grange View in Hugglescote, Wigston Meadows in Wigston and Burnmill Grange in Market Harborough. Elsewhere, vacancies will be filled in Nottinghamshire at Romans’ Quarter in Bingham and Fernwood Village, near Newark. The final apprentice will be stationed in Warwickshire at one of Ashlawn Gardens or The Moorings, both in Rugby. John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “Having now announced where this year’s intake of new apprentices will be based, we’re looking forward to creating new opportunities for those looking to establish a career in construction. “As the UK’s largest housebuilder, we are absolutely committed to developing raw talent and we have a duty to provide these kinds of apprenticeship opportunities.” The new trade apprentices, who will start this Summer and Autumn, will begin their programme with a three-week block release at Stephenson College in Coalville, returning home each weekend with all accommodation, subsistence and travel paid for. Each apprentice will then attend a further four two-week blocks over 18 months but, after the initial three weeks, they will be based onsite with David Wilson Homes to develop their skills in the trade. All programmes are well structured and tailored to individual needs. Apprentices will receive encouragement, FOR SALEsupport and guidance to help them develop, giving the skills and qualifications for a successful career.

Bridge to be replaced

WORKS to replace an ageing road bridge in a residential part of Leicester are due to get underway. The Kingsway Road Bridge, which spans the Evington Brook near the roundabout of Gartree Road and Stoughton Drive, is in poor condition and requires a full replacement so that it can safely continue to carry traffic. Works are expected to last until June. In total the scheme will cost about £205,000 from Leicester City Council’s annual highways capital programme.

Plans confirmed for demolition of Goscote House

WORK to bring down Leicester’s tallest high-rise residential tower block will get underway this summer.

Leicester City Council has reconfirmed plans to demolish Goscote House, a 23-storey residential tower block on the St Peter’s estate, following detailed specialist surveys. The block was decommissioned in 2018 after structural reports called into doubt the long-term viability of the building. All existing tenants were relocated, and the building is now vacant. Subsequent surveys have identified significant risks in the proposals to demolish Goscote and a new budget has been set at almost £5million. This includes a substantial contingency fund in recognition of the complexity of bringing down a building of this size in such a confined space, while minimising disruption to people living and working in the immediate area. Although the building could SUBSTANTIAL CITY CENTRE be retained for about 30 years, RELIGIOUS / COMMUNITY BUILDING refurbishment costs would be in Former Salvation Army Building + Kildare Street + Leicester + LE1 3FY the region of over £21million. Inspections would also be required ANDREW & every five years to guarantee the ASHWELL have ongoing structural integrity of the building. been marketing the The city council is currently former Salvation considering options for the future of Army building the site including the construction in Kildare Street of a smaller residential tower in Leicester City block on this site. A six-storey Centre. building would cost in the region of Best and final offers were £10million. requested by Wednesday Demolition work is due to begin 24th March 2021 – just a this July, when the interior of few days before this issue the building will be stripped. landed on desks. The Demolition of the building itself will guide price was £575,000. 6,810 Sq Ft BEST AND FINAL OFFERS REQUESTED BY be carried out floor by floor, and is 17:00 ON WEDNESDAY 24 MARCH 2021 Sq M) has an established F1 planning use but The 6,810 sq.ft. landmark(632.9 building expected to begin in late-2021. It is • Rare freehold D1 opportunity formay the Freehold in the opinion of the selling£575,000 agents, have potential •for Cityalternative Centre LOCATIONuses, estimated this could take around 10 • Characteristic interior features subject to planning. months to complete. • Capacity circa 250

Former Salvation Army building in Leicester offered for sale

• Alternative use potential (STP)

They say football is a game of two halves. My mate Dave can get through about seven pints during a match. 0116 254 1220 l andash.co.uk l 53 London Road, Leicester LE2 0PD 0116 254 1220 l andash.co.uk l 53 London Road, Leicester LE2 0PD

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Market Harborough

£9.5m scheme to expand Airfield Business Park PLANS WHICH would both boost the local economy and raise vital cash to support frontline services are being considered by Leicestershire County Council. Discussions are underway regarding a £9.5m scheme to expand the authority’s property portfolio by building more commercial units at Airfield Business Park, adjacent to the A508 Harborough Road, north of Market Harborough.

The county council bought 15.5 acres of undeveloped land at Airfield Business Park in 2016 and in July 2018 it obtained planning permission to build 80,000 sq. ft. of units on part of the site. Completed in December 2019, it has been a success, with 10 of the 12 new units now occupied, despite Covid-19 challenges. Five of the tenants moved in to expand their existing Leicestershire-based operations and the other five businesses are from outside the county. The county council will decide later this month whether to press ahead and seek planning permission for another 27 commercial units – ranging in size 1,539 sq.ft. to 10,010 sq.ft. – on the remaining 7.6 acres of the site. If the proposal is approved by cabinet, a planning application is expected to be submitted in April 2021. If the scheme gets the go-ahead, construction would begin early in 2022 with the aim of completion by November 2022. Councillor Byron Rhodes, cabinet member for finance and property, said: “Our portfolio of properties continue to perform well and we hope to continue investing in projects which not only boost the local economy, but also provide us with much-needed revenue to support our essential services in these difficult times. “Our developments so far at the Airfield site have been very successful, despite the challenges posed by Covid-19. It is clear that demand is there for further similar units and we are confident that extending the site would bring benefits to both local businesses and the wider community.”

Archaeologists in Egypt have discovered a pyramid covered in chocolate and hazelnuts. It’s believed to be the tomb of Pharaoh Rocher.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

£57m student development wins Blaby District planning approval in Nottingham Empty Home Mr Patel (c/o Agent: Dipesh Surti, Plan My Property, 5 Carlton Close, Newport Pagnell, Bucks. MK16 9AX) – Conversion of threebed dwelling into 2 self-contained apartments – at 164 High Street, Irthlingborough, Northants. NN9 5RD. Irthlingborough Directors Pension Fund (c/o Agent: Jon Sidey, Sidey Design Architecture, 10 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, Northampton NN10 8BT) – Change of use from offices to part retail and part residential – at 3 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, Northampton NN10 8BP. Ms D Mabbutt (c/o Agent: Ross Middleton, CC Town Planning, Newton House, Northampton Science Park, Kings Park Road, Northampton NN3 6LG) – First floor rear extension and partial change of use of ground floor to create 3 residential apartments – at 48 High Street, Irthlingborough, Northants. NN9 5TN.

Corby Borough Mr Derek McCourt (c/o: 11 Sallow Road, Corby NN17 5JX) - Prior approval for demolition of existing industrial buildings – at 11 Sallow Road, Corby NN17 5JX.

South Derbyshire Mr & Mrs Wadsworth (c/o Agent: Mr J Imber, JMI Planning, 62 Carter Street, Uttoxeter ST14 8EU) – Change of use of outbuildings to 2 dwellings (Revised scheme) – at Malthouse Farm, Lullington Road, Coton in the Elms, Swadlincote DE12 8EP. Nigel Gardiner Harvey (c/o: 67 Wheatley Lane, Winshill, Burton on Trent DE15 0DX) – Erection of 4 dwellings – at the rear of 777 Burton Road, Midway, Swadlincote DE11 0DN. Sahota (c/o Agent: Robert BaileyEnglish, Bailey-English Studio, Unit 02, 74 Rugby Road, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0QD) – Erection of 2 dwellings – at rear of 230 Station Road, Melbourne, Derby DE73 8BQ.

UNITE STUDENTS, the owner, manager and developer of purposebuilt student accommodation, has been granted planning approval for a new 700-bed development at Derby Road, Nottingham.

The development, which is located adjacent to the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus, is planned to open in time for the 2023/24 academic year. The total development costs will be £57 million. It will consist of 661 cluster flats with en-suite bathrooms and 39 studio apartments. The development aims to be net-zero carbon once open, running on 100% renewable electricity with solar panels installed on the roof and an allelectric heating system, including air-source heat pumps. The new complex, which is a former car showroom site, will also provide a commercial building for external use. Additionally, there will be green public open space, as well as biodiversity improvements to the land around the property, with improved access to the River Leen.

Logistics REIT swoops for two East Mids development sites URBAN LOGISTICS, the industrial and logistics REIT, has announced the £23 million forward funding of two development sites.

The company has exchanged contracts with Wilson Bowden Developments Limited, conditional on receipt of planning permission, for the forward funding of five urban logistics assets in Nottingham and Leicester. The acquisition, worth £23 million, will be financed from a combination of the company’s cash resources, the sale of logistics properties and debt financing. • The 8.1-acre site at Blenheim Park, Nottingham, will comprise four units with a total gross internal floor area of 166,330 sq ft. Blenheim Park benefits from a location that is 1 mile from junction 26 of the M1. • The 2.5-acre site at Optimus Point, Leicester, will comprise one unit with a gross internal floor area of 43,850 sq ft. Optimus Point benefits from a location that has direct access to junction 21a of the M1. Construction is expected to commence in September 2021. Practical completion is anticipated between September 2022 and February 2023.

Lutterworth site for 10 flats WELLS MCFARLANE are offering for sale a development site with Outline Planning Consent (ref: 18/00944/ OUT) for demolition of the existing building on site and erection of 10 flats in a two/ three storey development.

Mr A Badger (c/o Agent: Rory Bradford, Planning & Design Practice Ltd, Woburn House, Second Floor, Suite 3, Vernon Gate, Derby The site – at Central DE1 1UL) – Proposed change of Avenue, Lutterworth, use of agricultural buildings to Leicestershire – is being dwellinghouses – at The Sett, offered for sale by Private Unnamed Road Through Bretby Treaty with a guide price Park, Bretby, Burton on Trent of £525,000. DE15 0RB. These particulars do not constitute any part of any offer or contract. None of the statements contained herein are intended to be statements or representations of fact or opinion by either the vendor or Wells Mcfarlane or its employees or agents. Neither Wells Mcfarlane nor

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Wells McFarlane on 01455 559030 or email: info@wellsmcfarlane.co.uk

its employees or agents are authorised to make or give any representation, guarantees or warranties whatsoever in relation to the above premises. Instead parties must satisfy themselves by inspection or survey on any matter or statement contained within these particulars.

Wells McFarlane Devonshire House 26 Bank Street Lutterworth Leicestershire LE17 4AG

owners urged to consider becoming a landlord

IN 2019 Blaby District Council introduced a 200% Council Tax charge on houses that have been empty for more than two years to encourage owners to bring them back into use.

Across the District of Blaby, however, there are still Long Term Empty homes in every village that have been unoccupied for six months or more. The cost of bringing empty homes up to standard can be a barrier for many. The Council is urging owners to take advantage of the opportunity of a grant to become a landlord by bringing their property up to a liveable standard and letting it out. The £10,000 non-repayable grant is available for major works and could include things such as rewiring, central heating and windows that need to be replaced. Help is also provided to identify the work required and help with draw up a schedule of works for accurate quotes can be obtained. As part of the grant owners will become landlords, some for the first time, with Blaby District Council helping owners to rent out the property to nominated tenants for a minimum of two years. Rental income for empty home owners can start at £375 per month for a one-bedroom property, and from £710 per month for a four-bed property. Turning an empty home into a rental property can be not only lucrative for the owner but helps the local community. With many local people on the Housing Waiting List, these properties are a chance to reduce the waiting list and give residents a more stable place to live. Landlords can choose some of the tenancy conditions, such as no smokers or no pets allowed, and will receive expert advice from a Housing Options Officer, who will be allocated to the property and tenants throughout the whole tenure. There is also the alternative option of an interest-free loan up to £10,000 to help bring these houses up to standard. For more information, visit: https:// www.blaby.gov.uk/housing/privatehousing/empty-homes/

Heard a voice singing “Downtown” when I was in the kitchen the other day. Opened a drawer and it was Spatula Clark. T: 01455 559030 F: 01455 558529 E: info@wellsmcfarlane.co.uk W: www.wellsmcfarlane.co.uk

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Williams Homes’ development at Donington Le Heath LOCAL HOUSE builder Williams homes has opened The Green, Donnington lesuite Heath its marketing A beautiful selection of 2, 3 and 4 bed homes at Manor Green in located in the heart of Donnington le Heath, Leicestershire. Donington Le Heath

MANOR GREEN

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Attenuation Pond

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Located on The Green HOUSETYPES the developer will offer a range of 2, 3, and 4 bed homes which are nestled on the outskirts of the charming Leicestershire village of Donington Le Heath. All the houses at Manor Green benefit from fully fitted kitchens with Kardean Flooring and a range of Quality Bosch appliances including Gas hob and extractor, fridge/ freezer and dishwasher. The bathrooms and en-suites are luxuriously designed and are fitted with Villaroy and Boch sanitary ware with quality chrome fittings. Chrome towel radiators and Porcelanosa ceramic wall tiles. Ian Anderson, Sales director of Williams Homes, said “We are very excited to get our marketing suite open at Donington Le Heath, as it will enable purchasers to come along and take a look for themselves. We have received a high level of interest for this development, so I would encourage keen house buyers that they visit the onsite sales team and find out more about the development and what we have to offer.” To keep up to date with the latest availability from Williams Homes please visit the website at www.williamshomes.co.uk 11

bcp

The Nanpanton

4 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage

The Derwent

The Cropston

INS

3 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage

4 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage (plot 7 has a double garage)

The Swithland

2 Bedroom Semi-Detached Home

IS SR

3 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage

4 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage The Staunton

Affordable Housing

19-20

The Thornton

The Blackbrook

Street Lighting

Half Render

3 Bedroom Semi-Detached Home

The Eyebrook

4 Bedroom Detached Home with Single Garage

The Saddington

3 Bedroom Semi-Detached Home

bcp

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Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Residential sector drives recovery in construction project-starts GLENIGAN Rushcliffe

RHYS GADSBY, Glenigan’s Economic Analyst, commented on the latest figures: “It is positive to see project-starts return to pre-lockdown levels, despite the current COVID-19 restrictions. That construction-starts during

Holly Tree Tithby Ltd (c/o Agent: the three months to February Nick Baseley, IBA Planning Ltd, The 2021 were higher than a year ago Studios, Church Farm, Mansfield will also provide the industry with Road, Edwinstowe, Notts. NG21 145 Warwick Road some degree of confidence. The 9NJ) – Proposed residential use of recovery to date has been in-line Coventry, CV3 6AU existing agricultural buildings to with our 2021 – 2022 forecasts and create 3 dwellings – at Hollytree The subject site is located in a delightful position within the Conservation Area directly facing King Henry VIII the construction industry is poised School, having frontage to Warwick Road and immediately adjoining Tudor Court. Farm, Cropwell Road, Tithby, for further growth over the coming Notts. NG13 8GS This is a fantastic location in a highly sought-after area just a short walk from Central Six Retail Park, the city's

months as the UK’s vaccination new Friargate development and also the city centre itself with easy access onto the city's Inner Ring Road. programme helps to unlock the

Mr Gavin Allman (c/o Agent: Paul Coventry's main line railway station is also close by making the location perfect for commuters, with current economy. journey times to London (Euston) at around an hour. Thurlby, Gordon White & Hood, Unit SECTOR PERFORMANCE 4B, Fir Tree Lane, Groby, Leicester This is an exciting development opportunity comprising an extensive site of approximately 0.80 acres located in a LE6 sought-after location (convenient for access to Coventry city centre and for the mainline railway station) and 0FH) – Conversion of derelict “The value of residential work now with detailed planning consent for the erection of a new four storey block of 24 generously proportioned barns into 2 residential properties commencing on-site during the high spec apartments benefiting from lift access and with mature grounds attached. – at Edwalton Barns, Off three months to February was 30% Currently a new planning application is being progressed and is about to be determined for an alternative scheme Blackbird Crescent, Edwalton, higher than a year ago and 17% of 24 apartments on a slightly reduced footprint to encompass four 3 bedroomed units as a variation to the Notts. current scheme (with the potential also to create additional 3 bedroomed units if required). higher than the preceding three

months on a seasonally adjusted The original consented scheme provides for nineteen 2 bed units and five 1 bed units with a footprint of

Mr Japproximately 21,119 sq. ft. The newly submitted scheme provides for four 3 bed units, fifteen 2 bed units and Sheardown (c/o Agent: Paul basis. Private housing project-starts five 1 bed units with a footprint of approximately 19,745 sq. ft. day, PD Architecture, The Design experienced particularly strong A pack of detailed plans for both schemes together with other relevant documentation pertaining to this Studio, 30 Main Street, Lambley, growth, rising 31% against the development is available courtesy of the selling agents (and accessible within the Property Documents Nottingham NG4 4PN) – Reserved /Other/Link attached to these particulars. previous year and 29% compared to matters application relating to the preceding three months. Social application number 17/02582/OUT housing work commencing on-site for erection of 7 dwellings – at climbed 27% against the previous land to north of Abbey Lane, year but declined 11% compared to Aslockton, Notts. Mr Paul Frost & Mr T Faulks (c/o Agent: Paul Stone, Stone Planning Services Ltd, 9 Yardley Close, Swanwick, Derbyshire DE55 1EP) – Demolition of industrial buildings – at land south west of Wharf House, Main Street, Hickling, Notts. Mr J Banks (c/o Agent: Craig Kipling, CREATE Architecture Ltd, Fusion Hive, North Shore Road, Stockton on Tees TS18 2NB) – Demolition of existing buildings and development of 6 new dwellings with access, parking and landscaping – at Hillcrest Workshops, Melton Road, Stanton on the Wolds, Notts. NG12 5PJ.

the preceding three months.” “Non-residential work starting on-site declined 18% compared to the previous year but increased 1% against the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis. Health project-starts climbed 38% against the previous year despite falling 38% against the preceding three months. In contrast, hotel & leisure work starting on-site climbed 38% compared to the preceding three months but declined 40% against the previous year. “Retail was the only non-residential sector to achieve growth against both the previous year (44%) and the preceding three months (27%). However, retail project-starts were particularly low a year ago. Industrial project-starts performed relatively poorly, declining 12% against the previous year and 3% compared to

the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis.” “Civil engineering work starting on-site during the three months to February declined 19% against the previous year and by a quarter compared to the preceding three months (seasonally adjusted). Infrastructure project-starts were the main cause of the decline, being 26% lower than a year ago and 42% lower than the preceding three months. Utilities project-starts were 4% lower than the previous year but climbed 5% against the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis.” REGIONAL PERFORMANCE A few regions experienced relatively strong performances for project-starts during the three months to February. The North East witnessed the greatest growth against the previous year of 79% and experienced an increase of 18% compared to the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted

basis. The East of England also performed well and experienced increases of 10% against the previous year and the greatest rise against the preceding three months of 44%. Work commencing on-site in London climbed 17% against the previous year and by a quarter compared to the preceding three months. The North West was another region that saw projectstarts increase, with rises during the period of 38% against the previous year and 19% against the preceding three months. In contrast, Scotland and Wales experienced steep declines of 17% and 37% against the previous year. Compared to the preceding three months, work commencing on-site in Scotland declined by a fifth while project-starts in Wales fell 36%. The West Midlands experienced falls of 23% against the previous year and 5% compared to the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis.

Development site for 24 apartments in Coventry

LOVEITTS are offering for sale a development opportunity comprising a 0.80 acre site with detailed planning consent for a four-storey block of 24 high-spec apartments. The site - at 145 Warwick Road, Coventry CV3 6AU – is situated a short walk from Central Six Retail Park, the new Friargate development and has easy access to the inner ring road. Guide price: £1.5 million Contact Loveitts on 024 7625 8421 or email: newhomes@loveitts.co.uk

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 (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. Copy Deadline: 15th of each month

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

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Friend of mine always gets a pain in his spine when he listens to classical music. Think it’s Bach-ache.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Site for a ‘Grand Designs’ home COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN Estate Agents are offering for sale a site with full planning consent (ref: 2018/0257/FUL) for a substantial contemporary home of approximately 5,500 sq.feet of accommodation with further 9 acres of paddock land.

The total square footage is over 10,500 sq.feet including Dove House (2,500 sq.feet) and the garage (2,500 sq.feet). The plot - located at Preston Road, Wing, Near Oakham, Rutland – is being offered for sale at a Guide Price of £1.29 million. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Country & Equestrian on 01572 757979 or email: office@countryequestrianhomes.com

Another modular-home development underway in Nuneaton A NEW FLEET of ultra-modern, modular homes was craned in last month at a development site in Nuneaton.

Built using funding from Homes England, the Roxburgh Road development consists of eight, 1-bedroom apartments, and transforms the former, unattractive garage site into a welcoming residential area. Designed and built by a local leading innovator in modular housing, ModPods International Ltd, each unit has been specially designed off-site to national space standards using the latest technologies. Staying consistent with its approach to combat climate change, the Borough Council has ensured that the latest in energy-efficient methods have been used across the development to help minimise heating bills for residents. Keeping up to date with the change in the automotive industry towards electric vehicles, the development will also include two vehicle charging points for use by residents and external visitors. Steven Smith, Chief Commercial Officer of ModPods International Limited, was delighted to be working with the Borough Council to deliver the units, he said: “We are extremely pleased to be working with the council. As a full volumetric modular manufacturer who is also based in Warwickshire, we see ourselves as an ideal partner, with the capacity to deliver quality, affordable, sustainable housing, while simultaneously creating local jobs and training young local people in our “ModPods Academy”. We are looking forward to building on the success of this development and to continue providing the Borough with future-proof housing going forward.

ADDISON HUNT Chartered Quantity Surveyors & Project Managers CLIENT SERVICES

CONTRACTOR SERVICES

• Cost Management

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• Employer’s Agent

• Estimating

• Project Management

• Assistance on Site

• Quality Monitoring

• Adhoc / Special Tasks

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Office address: 12 Great Central Rd, Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 1RW Telephone: 01509 351 004 Email: loughborough@addisonhunt.co.uk Website: www.addisonhunt.co.uk

Former factory in Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham SDL PROPERTY AUCTIONS are offering for sale BY AUCTION a vacant two storey former factory situated within an area of residential regeneration at 6 York Terrace, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham B18 5AA.

The selling agents feel that the building would suit a bespoke scheme of residential units, subject to obtaining appropriate planning consent. For sale by auction on Thursday 29th April 2021 starting at 10.30am. Guide Price: £140,000 plus fees. Visit the SDL Property Auctions website for more information at www. sdlauctions.co.uk

A friend asked me if I had seen the film “Tractor”. “No”, I replied, “but I’ve seen the trailer”.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

Plans for “landmark” School of Art & Design building in Nottingham

IHS MARKIT / CIPS UK CONSTRUCTION PMI®

Construction sector rebounds in February amid boost from commercial work UK CONSTRUCTION companies experienced a solid return to growth in February after a setback at the start of 2021, according to the latest PMI® data compiled by IHS Markit.

NOTTINGHAM Trent University (NTU) has revealed plans for a new “landmark” building for its School of Art & Design.

Designed by architects Hawkins\Brown, the new 5,300 square metre building on Shakespeare Street will provide specialist teaching spaces, quiet study spaces and a collaborative hub for social learning, designing and making, including an innovation lab. There will be an exhibition space for students’ work as well as a seating area to meet and socialise in. The new building is designed to achieve net zero carbon. NTU is intending to submit a planning application for the development in March 2021. If the planning application is successful, the University would start deconstructing the existing site from July 2021. The construction phase would then commence November 2021 with the delivery of the new building by Autumn 2023.

Tenants move in to new workspace at Pioneer Park A NEW hub for business at Leicester’s Pioneer Park is now open and welcoming its first tenants.

Work started on the £5m scheme last May, and now developers Brackley Property Developments – working with the city council – have completed the three-storey building next to the existing managed workspace at Dock. Offering light industrial workspace and office accommodation in 16 individual units, ranging in size from 800-1,800sqft, the scheme will provide grow-on space for Dock-based businesses that are ready to expand, as well as space for new businesses looking to join Dock’s thriving entrepreneurial community. Seven businesses have already secured their space at Dock’s new extension, with IT consultancy Employee Zero one of the first tenants to move in. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Dock 2 joins the LCB Depot, Makers’ Yard, Phoenix Square Workspace, the Leicester Business Centre and the original Dock in our growing portfolio of flexible workspaces that are supporting local businesses and jobs in key sectors. “These new managed workspaces will help us to develop Pioneer Park as a hub for technology and knowledge-based industries, improving the city’s economic prosperity, supporting enterprise and creating jobs. “With 50% of the new space already pre-let, it shows there’s strong demand for this type of accommodation.”

New orders also regained momentum as project starts increased in anticipation of improving UK economic conditions over the course of the year. Extended supplier lead times persisted in February as vendors struggled with transport delays and stronger demand conditions. Stretched global supply chains, greater shipping charges and rising commodity prices all contributed to the sharpest increase in average cost burdens across the construction sector since August 2008. The headline seasonally adjusted IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Total Activity Index posted 53.3 in February, up from 49.2 in January, to signal a solid increase on overall construction output. The index has registered above the 50.0 no-change mark in eight of the past nine months. Residential work remained the strongest area of growth in February, although the speed of recovery eased slightly since January. There were some reports citing temporary delays on site arising from adverse weather and supply chain issues (especially for timber). The slowdown in house building was more than offset by the sharpest rise in commercial work since last September and a slower fall in civil engineering activity. Survey respondents commented on contract awards for commercial building that had been delayed earlier in the pandemic and some reported a boost from infrastructure work related to major transport projects. New order volumes increased for the ninth consecutive month in February and the rate of expansion accelerated from the subdued pace seen at the start of the year. Construction companies cited improving demand across a range of sources, including residential development, new opportunities in the commercial segment and public sector infrastructure spending. Greater workloads encouraged additional staff recruitment. Although only modest, the rate of job creation was the fastest since March 2019. Similarly, input buying picked up as construction firms prepared for new project starts. Improving order books and early signs that the vaccine rollout will release pent up demand also led to the strongest degree of construction sector optimism for over five years. Meanwhile, purchasing prices increased at a rapid pace in February. Survey respondents cited an imbalance of demand and supply, alongside inflationary pressures from the pass through of higher transportation costs. Tim Moore, Economics Director at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey: “Construction work regained its position as the fastestgrowing major category of UK private sector output in February. The rebound was supported by the largest rise in commercial development activity since last September as the successful vaccine rollout spurred contract awards on projects that had been delayed at an earlier stage of the pandemic. “House building is still the engine of recovery for the construction sector, although there was a loss of momentum since January as adverse weather and longer wait times for materials contributed to some temporary delays on site. “Civil engineering activity has been somewhat subdued in recent months, but survey respondents continued to cite the positive outlook for infrastructure work on major transport projects as a factor helping to boost confidence in the construction sector. “Stretched supply chains and sharply rising transport costs were the main areas of concern for construction companies in February. Reports of delivery delays remain more widespread than at any time in the 20 years prior to the pandemic, reflecting a mixture of strong global demand for raw materials and shortages of international shipping availability. Subsequently, an imbalance of demand and supply contributed to the fastest increase in purchasing costs across the construction sector since August 2008.”

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Having a curry with another friend who can’t eat rice. He’s basmatic.

Leicestershire BUILDER Magazine • APRIL 2021 • Tel: 01530 244069 • EMAIL: INFO@BUILDERMAGAZINES.CO.UK

ARIEL’S DRY VERGE SYSTEM

Major bottling plant planned

ERCHANTS can edge ahead of the competition with the M Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system, the proven dry fix roofing solution from Ariel Plastics that is fast, easy-to-fit and fully compatible with an expansive range of roof tiles.

Developed and designed for ease of installation, the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system provides a neat mortarless finish at roof verges on new build and retrofit projects. The system is a 100% mortar-free, dry fix solution, offering a hard-wearing, durable and attractive finish to the roofline without the inconvenience of using mortar bedding. An installation video available at https://www.arielplastics.com takes installers through the process of installing the dry verge system in a step-by-step guide. Manufactured from lightweight, modern plastic materials that are easyto-install and weather- resistant, the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system protects the roof verge from wind uplift, pest infestation and weather degradation in accordance with BS 5534. Available in Brown, Anthracite Grey and Terracotta, this all-weather system includes Starter Piece, Verge Section, Batten Clip, and Angled, and Half-Round Ridge Caps options to suit the ridge style. Fully adjustable for installation with tiles of between 260mm-350mm gauges, the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system is quick and easy to install, and offers a wealth of features so that installers can fit with confidence, giving a more superior dry verge solution for both new build and renovation projects. The temporary ‘True-Line’ guide in the Starter Piece ensures it is correctly lined up with the tiles, guaranteeing a perfect and secure alignment on the roof, whilst a handy cut out area provides the flexibility to work around existing gutters. Attention to detail and consideration of the installers needs have played a crucial part in developing this product. The Verge Sections are not handed to fit both the left hand and right hand sides of the roof verge for ease of installation. The ‘TrueConnect’ locators fit the ‘True Mount’ allowing adjustable positioning of the Verge Sections to suit various tile gauges. An in-built ‘drip strip’ allows rainwater to run off the Verge, avoiding wall staining and potential damp. There are flex points on the Ridge Caps which allow for differing roof angles and a choice of angled and half round options to suit the ridge style. Paul Goddard, Sales Director of Ariel Plastics said: “With the construction industry reaping the benefits of dry fix products, the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge System is fast and simple to install, and fully compatible with a wide range of tiles. It’s set to become the go-to, hassle-free dry verge system for merchant customers, offering a clean, attractive and maintenance-free finish.” Offering the widest choice of roofing sheet, rooflights and roofing accessories available in the UK, industry leader Ariel Plastics is renowned for providing specialist roofing and glazing solutions for any application. The Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system complements Ariel’s extensive Corodrain roof drainage and Corovent roof ventilation portfolios. To assist each outlet in selling the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system, merchants can also benefit from a free Display Unit with every stock order. To find out more about the Coroverge range or wider portfolio, call Ariel Plastics on 01246 281111, email sales@arielplastics.com or visit www. arielplastics.com

Outline planning permission secured for 600 Derbyshire homes

TWO HOUSING developers have moved a step closer to building 600 new homes at Mackworth, on the outskirts of Derby. Pegasus Group secured a resolution to grant planning permission, subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement, for the development on land at Radbourne Lane on behalf of Miller Homes and Redrow Homes at a meeting of Amber Valley Borough Council. The development is set to deliver 30 per cent affordable homes, the land for a single-entry primary school and more than 16ha of open space including a network of footpaths and cycleways.

PLANS FOR a huge bottling plant in Foston to serve supermarket giant Lidl have been confirmed.

Hailed as the “largest single investment in South Derbyshire since Toyota” the 50,000 sq m water processing, bottling and distribution site is reportedly set to create hundreds of jobs, and an anticipated investment in excess of £50 million. The planning application was submitted to South Derbyshire District Council and approved by the authority’s planning committee in December 2019. Since then, investigative works have been carried out on the land using boreholes to a depth of over 200 ft to ascertain the water quality and capacity. Interestingly, the aquifer is reported to contain water that has percolated through over the last 400 years or more. Despite COVID-19 and Brexit, preparatory works have continued during 2020 as MEG consider this to be a long-term investment into the UK.

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Someone took a photo of me singing REM songs at karaoke. That’s me in the corner.

Timber Merchants Engineered Timber Bespoke Machining Garden Buildings

Independent Timber Merchant with over 90 years experience Head Office: Tel: 01509 842561 • Hathern Road, Long Whatton, Leicestershire, LE12 5DE Leicester: Tel: 0116 2557966 • Unit 20 & 21, Oswin Road, Leicester, LE3 1HR Hinckley: Tel: 01455 245309 • Units 1 & 2, Barleyfield, Hinckley, LE10 1YE Coalville: Tel: 01530 832181 • Thornborough Road, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3TH

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