NOVEMBER 2006
30/11/2006 - Three Awards in a Row!
For the third consecutive year the Northampton office of Lambert Smith Hampton has been heralded as Estates Gazette's 'Most active national agent in Northamptonshire'. The award is based on research by the leading commercial property website, Estates Gazette Interactive (EGi) which acknowledges the total number of commercial property deals completed in the last 12 months. LSH managed to complete over 100 transactions more than the nearest competitor. Once again LSH concluded more lettings and freehold disposals during the last 12 months, incontrast to any other national or regional commercial property agent. Ian Leather, Head of Lambert Smith Hampton's Northampton office, commented: "We are thrilled to have won this award for the third year in a row - it demonstrates the vast amount of work we perform within the Northamptonshire area. I am delighted our achievements have yet again been rewarded, it is testimony to the work the team fulfill. We would also like to thank our clients who continue to value our professional advise and inputto their varying property issues." The disposals that LSH has completed on behalf of a range of private and institutional clients over the last 12 months includes letting or freehold sale of industrial, reatil units and office space that range in size from the smaller transaction to more complex deals on substantial buildings, land sales and invetments. LSH continues to act on behalf of the full range of local, regional and national clients. Source: Business Times December 2006.
30/11/2006 - East Midlands Business Commitment Award Announced
BCC and Westfield Health Announce Northamptonshire Chamber Member the East Midlands Winner of the Business Commitment to the Community Award. Viridian Nutrition, a member of Northamptonshire Chamber, has been announced as the regional winner of the Business Commitment to the Community Award in the East Midlands for the Chamber Awards 2006. The company, a supplier of nutritional supplements to independent health food stores, won the Westfield sponsored award because judges were impressed by its strong and award winning commitment to the community. From launch, the company has combined a commitment to charity with a strong recycling programme. The recycling programme in particular was impressive as it both helps the environment and enhances store and consumer loyalty and support for the Viridian brand. Jill Davis, Executive Director, Sales & Marekting, Westfield Health said: "For many businesses the contribution they make to the community stops at the payment of taxes or salaries to employees. The winner of this award sees its role in much broader terms. It shows us that seeking to improve the communities in which you operate is not just a moral obligation but a business opportunity too." Peter Mileham, President of the BCC said "Business has always been the economic backbone of our society but how many of us want to go much further than this. The winner of this award shows us how you can combine your business objectives with a desire to positively impact your local community." Source: Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce.
30/11/2006 - Enterprising Scheme Shortlisted for Awards
East Midlands Enterprising Scheme Shortlisted for Finals at European Awards. The Welland Sub-regional Strategic Partnership (SSP), a finalist in the DTI's Enterprising Britain 2006 competition, has been shortlisted by the European Commission for a European Enterprise Award. The European Enterprise Awards are modelled on the highly successful Enterprising Britain competition and recognise outstanding initiatives that support entrepreneurship at a regional level and promote the role enterprise plays in society. Based in the rural East Midlands, The Welland SSP was one of over 50 entrants across Europe for the nomination and will now go forward to the final stage in Brussels in December. The initiatives in The Wellands area proved so successful they turned 1,000 miles of rural countryside into a strong, economically viable and sustainable area. Member of the European Enterprise Awards Jury, Stan Crawford, Managing Director of Sherwood Energy Village and winner of Enterprising Britain in 2005, was delighted with their shortlisting, commenting: "The Welland SSP has achieved transformational results in the community and their ability to encourage enterprise and attract investment is to be commended. They have really looked at the area, the environment and the landscape, and have created new opportunities for it whilst ensuring that the environment is protected for the next generation to work with and live on. The sustainable community that it has successfully developed has great transferability and should encourage others across Europe to promote regional entrepreneurship." The Welland SSP was established in 2002 by East Midlands Development Agency (emda) with the support of five local authorities (South Kesteven, Rutland, East Northamptonshire, Harborough and Melton) to give secure economic regeneration in an area which had historically been overlooked. Alison Bingham, Enterprise Development Manager at emda who leads the Enterprising Britain campaign in the East Midlands, said: "We are absolutely delighted that the region has achieved national recognition and we are very excited at the prospect odf showcasing The Wellands in Europe. The scheme in The Welland is a really strong example of an enterprising community initiative, and we have every chance of winning in Europe. It just goes to prove that the East Midlands is full of pepole with enterprising ideas and our aim is to nurture and encourage these skills to ensure we have a flourishing region by 2020." The Welland SSP has helped boost the regional economy by actively encouraging enterprise through locally based enterprise centres, business incubation centres, and community & social programmes. All these initiatives offer pro-active support for start-up and growing businesses in The Welland and have been a great success to date. In addition, The Welland SSP has also managed to establish a sustainable and enterprising economy by encouraging tourism. For example, it supported the creation of 'Hidden England', a consortium of country houses and castles, which has successfully managed to increase tourist spend and retention. It has also developed a unique hub-and-spoke approach to stimulate work in market towns which has in turn enabled villages to turn into enterprising communities. Members from The Welland SSP will now travel to Brussels for the Award ceremony, where they will compete against the thirteen other short listed projects in the final for the Grand Jury Prize. For further information about the European Enterprise Awards, visit: http://www.european-enterprise-awards.org/ For further information about the Enterprising Britain Competition, visit: www.sbs.gov.uk/enterprisingbritain
30/11/2006 - County's Cream of the Crop
Entrepreneurs from around the county descended in their hundreds on Sywell Aerodrome for the biggest night in th business calender. The annual Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards, organised by the Chronicle & Echo, Evening Teleraph and Northamptonshire Chamber, celebrated the achievements of the very best movers & shakers from across the county. The awards, now in their 10th year, were attended by more than 300 people, who packed out the hanger in the Aerodrome Hotel on Wednesday night. And the glittering ceremony was given more than just a touch of celebrity glamour. Guests were not only treated to amusing sporting tales by former snooker world champion Dennis Taylor, but alo presented with awards by ITV news anchor Nicholas Owen. Thirteen awards were given out to hardworking businesspeople, and before the ceremony began, Simon Kennedy, General Manager of Northamptonshire Newspapers, let all the applicants know the quality of all the entrants this year had been absolutely outstanding. The top prize of Business of the Year Award went to Daventry company Hambleside Danelaw, which has already scooped a number of national awards for its commitment to innovation, including a shelter for use in disasters. Paul Wilkinson, marketing director, said it felt brilliant to get the award. "We weren't expecting to win. The company have tried to identify helping the environment which could be why we won". Winner of the entrepreneurial Business of the Year Award was internet gift company Cocoon Collection from Northampton. The company provides a range of gifts for children and adults and judges were impressed by its originality and entrepreneurial spirit. Collecting the award, commercial director Amanda McManus said she was stunned. "We weren't expecting to win at all. We are a very small, new business and it's brilliant we were chosen." Training and Development Award went to Northampton's Marriott Hotel, which combines formal training with counselling and review sessions. Collecting the award, general manager Michael Regenhardt said he was delighted: "It's very important for those of us in the hotel industry. These are the people who make it all happen. For us it was an accolade we were really hoping for because training is the most important thing, and if customers enjoy their experience with us they will come back again." Employee of the Year Award went to Ellie Armstrong, who works for Iceberg Marketing. "I feel quite nervous about it all really," Mrs Armostring said after being handed her award. "I think I got the award because of all the work I put in over the last year. I've been studying marketing in my own time and it's been really tough. Still, it was a real shock to be nominated and even more to win." The Diversity Award and Equal Opportunities Award was given to Kettering Job Centre for its flexibility for working parents and diversity initiative, Andy Barber, jobcentre manager, said he was extremely pleased to accept the award. He added "It recognises it's a tremendous achievement for the jobcentre and I'm very pleased with our success." Estate agents O'Riordan Bond won won the Growing Business of the Year Award seven years after first scooping the accolade. Managing Director Simon Bond said it was really nice to win the award. "We have been working in Northampton now for 12 years and winning the growing business award seven years ago as well as today means such a lot." The New Business of the Year Award went to BMT Sales and Marketing in Wellingborough. Collecting the award, managing director Ben Thomas said it felt amazing."We were never expecting to get this. I t was a privilege to be nominated. Northamptonshire is such a great place to do business and it is just fantastic to get this. It's an achievement of the whole team and something we are really proud of." The Innovation Award went to Great Oakley firm Clear My Mail, which blocks spam and keeps computers safe from viruses. Managing Director Dan Field said it felt brilliant to collect the prize. "We have got the world's first device for stopping all spam emails," he said. "That makes us the only company in the world with 100 per cent effectiveness. I was hoping I would win this award and will be celebrating tonight." Business Person of the Year went to Damion Pidgeon, who works for the Dodd Group in Northampton. Judges were impressed by his hard work within a short timeframe, commitment and dedication. Mr Pidgeon said he was overwhelmed to recieve the award. "It's been a great year for business and I'm very pleased to be recognised on the back of that success." Community Investment Award went to Ricoh UK Products, GCS Divison, in Wellingborough, which has created an eco-centre for use by groups and school trips. General Manager Mike Nixon said it was brilliant to accept the award. "It's absolutely superb. I think it's another recognition of what we try to do by bringing our environmental expertise to build bridges between businesses and the community." Team of the Year Northamptonshire Sport came out in force to collect the award, telling Nicholas Owen it was a team award, so they would collect it as a team. Speaking after the ceremony Vanessa Brown, director, said it was a fantastic feeling to win the prize. "we're over the moon. You work long hours in sport and it's fantastic to have that hard work recognised, Everybody does things without complaining and I'm proud of such a good team." The Customer Service Award went to Northampton chauffeur business Arrive in Style. Dean Clayton, managing director, and his director wife Sarah, picked up the prize. Mrs Clayton said: "It's fantastic. We weren't expecting to win at all. We have worked really hard so we deserve this. I think we provide what our customers want and we give them the best service we can. The most important thing for us is to put them first." Retailer of the Year went to kitchens & bathrooms, fireplaces and heating products company A Bell and Co from Northampton, which impressed judges with a high-quality show room, customer survey and questionnaire. Collecting the award, Michael Bustin, director, and John Kirhkham, managing director, said it was for the whole team. "We just work on top qualityt and good service and we think all the staff deserve this award as testament to their hard work." Northamptonshire Chamber chief executive Stephen Smith said after the ceremony: "It's a great opportunity for businesses to get togeether and celebrate their achievements of the year. Once again this has been a really fantastic night." Source: Northants News
29/11/2006 - Microsoft Award for Innovation Announced
BCC And Microsoft Announce Northamptonshire Chamber Member for the East Midlands Winner of the Microsoft Award for Innovation through Technology. Hambleside Danelaw, a member of Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, has been announced as the regional winner of the Microsoft Award for Innovation through Technology in the East Midlands for the Chamber Awards 2006. The business (manufacturer of roofing and ventilation products for the construction industry) won the Microsoft sponsored award as judges were very impressed with their engineering environment and their innovative design and use of new materials for an improved roof-light compliant with challenging new legislation. Natalie Ayres, Microsoft's Senior Director Small and Medium Business Solutions & Partners Group said: "In an ever more competitive market, businesses are on the hunt for anything that can give that all important edge. The most innovative are looking closely at their technology investment to identify not just where they can streamline their business processes but how they might enhance or create products and services. We are proud to celebrate the best of these ideas". Peter Mileham, President of the BCC sais: "Technology now touches all businesses. It is often the difference between success and failure. Hambleside Danelaw Ltd has made its technology investment work. They have looked closely at how their businesses could be made better, not just more efficient, with technology." In a double celebration, Hambleside Danelaw also won the Business of the Year award in the Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards 2006, held at Sywell on the 22nd November. The company was presented with its award by Nicholas Owen, the news presenter. Sponsors of the award Hartwell Land Rover selected Hambleside as the winners because of the all round approach they had adopted. Source: Northampton Chamber of Commerce.
24/11/2006 - £1.3m Boost for East Midlands Firms
East Midlands manufacturers are to benefit from the launch of a £1.3m pilot project that will see the DTI Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) expanded to deliver even more support to the region's businesses. More than 1,400 SME firms in the East Midlands, many of them employing fewer than 30 people, have been helped by MAS since 2002. Approximately a quarter of those firms have gone on to have in-depth work with MAS and this has produced a collective increase on turnover of £30m in that time. The pilot project has been commissioned by East Midlands Development Agency (emda) and will be delivered in the region with immediate effect until March 2008 when the next phase of MAS will be brought in nationally. The current scheme provides help implementing improved manufacturing processes. The pilot will extend this to include bringing new products to market, environmental and energy performance, strategic planning, innovation and skills provision. It will also give the MAS team the flexibility to offer their services for longer, which will significantly increase the impact of the assistance that MAS can provide. Industry and the Regions Minister Margaret Hodge welcomed the pilot, which she said would help develop the next phase of MAS. She said: "The Manufacturing Advisory Service continues to be our flagship programme, at the heart of our strategy to help manufacturers succeed in the increasingly competitive global environment. Firms tell us that MAS has been one of the most successful business initiatives we have introduced. "However, we want to continue to improve the servie it offers, by being more strategic and by offering advice and support in a more holistic and comprehensive way." Chairman on emda and MAS Ambassador, Dr Bryan Jackson said: "emda is the national lead for Regional Development Agencies on manufacturing and has been working with the DTI to respond to demand from manufacturing companies to succeed in a highly competitive global marketplace. This £1.3m extra investment in MAS until March 2008 will expand MAS support for East Midlands manufacturing businesses." Before becoming Chair of emda in January 2005, Dr Jackson was the Managing Director of Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK), where he oversaw the company expand, doubling its initial investment to £1.7bn. Case Study Cooney Marine is one regional manufacturing business that has benefited from MAS East Midlands support in the last 18 months. The service helped the company the achieve a strategic change in its competitiveness which led to award-winning standards in manufacturing. It also enabled Cooney to diversify its customer base allowing the company to reduce its reliance on its main customers from 80% to 40%. James Cooney, Managing Director of Cooney Marine said: "MAS East Midlands helped us establish a basis for lasting competitiveness through practical hands-on engagement in our operations. Moreover, the support to realise significant changes in direction means that we won't have to compete with China on cost as we have committed substantial investment in design, innovation and new customers. In addition, our new investments in the latest manufacturing technologies give us a leading edge in a globally competitive UK manufacturing sub-sector (luxury boats)." For further information please contact Clare Baker at emda on 0115 988 8583 or email: clarebaker@emd.org.uk
23/11/2006 - New Director's Role for Charlotte
Rockingham Motor Speedway has appointed Charlotte Bushby to the new role of Director of Sales & Marketing with immediate effect. Charlotte started her career in recruitment before joining the racing circuit as a Business Development Manager in September 2002. She was promoted to Head of Sales and Marketing two years later. The 30-year-old from Northamptonshire has always worked within the sales and marketing industry and has gained vast knowledge and experience in this field over a 12 year career. Charlotte said: "I am delighted with my new appointment and looking forward to the new challenges it will bring. "There have been a number of changes at Rockingham since I joined, and it is fair to say it has been difficult at times, however this promotion is in recognition of the great team spirit we have here, which makes my job easier. During the past year the core business of Rockingham has changed, and this role reflects our new focus. In five years we have transformed from being just a motor racing circuit to one of the UK's leading automotive and corporate venues." Charlotte's promotion is in recognition of her leadership skills, hard work, and dedication in particular during the past 12 months in which she has played a crucial role in helping Rockingham achieve one of its most successful years. Chairman of Rockingham Len O'Hagan addedd: "Charlotte's comitment and professionalism has been pivotal in the marketing of the 'New Rockingham' focusing our key business areas of track, wet grip, corporate and exhibition facilities." Critical to Rockingham's recent success has been the rapid expansion of its facilities beyond the original banked oval race track, which has included a new £1.5million wet grip facility. Rockingham is centrally located and can be reached within two hours by road by 75% of the population, and boasts extensive, modern conference and banqueting facilities, which can cater for up to 500 delegates.
21/11/2006 - University Knowledge Transfer Partnership Awarded Highest National Grade
A knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme run by the University of Northampton's School of The Arts has been awarded a national 'Certificate of Excellence' in recognition of it's successes. The well documented KTP at Wellingborough based Kettering Textiles, which ran for two years, was established when the company realised the potential in partnering with the University's Head of Fashion, Kim Rowney. Emmeline Child, a University BA (Hons) Fashion graduate, was the KTP Associate on the project and worked as an employee of the University at Kettering Textiles. Academic supervision was given by Ms. Rowney, helping to deliver a successful range of recycled clothing ranges which culminated in them being launched in Top Shop's Oxford Circus, London, super store. The Kettering Textiles KTP, which finished last year and has seen Emmeline Child go on to establish her own fashion label Emmeline 4:Re, received the 'Excellence' accolade from the Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Board directly, which is run by the Department of Trade and Industry. A total of 284 KTP partnerships finished last year with the national 'Excellent' rate currently standing at 6%. John Jones, Business Development Manager, Knowledge Transfer and Commercial Development, The University of Northampton, commented: "This is a huge achievement for the University of Northampton and credit is due to Kim Rowney, Emmeline Child and all that worked on this KTP. We currently have 10 KTPs at the University which have all been successfully approved and are happy to talk to businesses about how KTPs can help to improve areas of their trade." KTP is a government run programme which enables academic staff to partner with commercial organisations on joint projects, usually where a solution is needed to a particular problem or project brief. The benefits to employers in engaging with KTPs are well documented - the latest information shows that, on average, the business benefits that can be expected from a single KTP project are an increase of over £290,000 in annual profits before tax; the creation of eight genuine new jobs and an increase inthe skills of existing staff. Put another way, for evey £1 million of Government investment in Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, the benefits achieved by UK businesses amount to: £4.2 million increase in annual profits before tax; The creation of 112 genuine new jobs; 214 company staff trained. The University's Knowledge Exchange has resonsibility for the institution's KTP portfolio. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact John Jones on 01604 892598 or email: john.jones@northampton.ac.uk.
20/11/2006 - New Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Successfully Launched by University
To add to its portfolio of seven current Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programmes, The University of Northampton is pleased to announce that it has recently launched three others. KTPs with Arnott Conveyors, Brixworth, Cobra Design, Whittlebury, and Tingdene Homes, Wellingborough, have all successfully been instigated. KTP is a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) government run programme which enables academic staff to partner with commercial organisations on joint projects, usually where a solution is needed to a particular problem of project brief. The University of Northampton is the county's sole agent for the programme and the benefits to employers in engaging with KTPs are well documented - the latest information shows that, on average, the business benefits that can be expected from a single KTP project are an increase of over £290,000 in annual profits before tax; the creation of eight genuine new jobs and an increase in the skills of existing staff. Put another way, for every £1 million of Government investment in Lnowledge Transfer Partnerships, the benefits achieved by UK businesses amount to: £4.2 million increase in annual profits before tax; The creation of 112 genuine new jobs; 214 Company staff trained. The particular project brief for Arnott Conveyors Ltd is to develop a new type of vibratory conveyor. The KTP Associate employed by the University on the project, Elspeth Wood, will work at Arnott for two years to research, plan and implement a contemporary new product development (NPD) method by the production of a low-noise conveyor using novel vibration technology. Managing Director of Arnott Conveyors, Jacque Matthews, commented: "A vibration-based conveyor which addresses the inherent problems of noise would be a great addition to our product range. After talking with the University, we decided that we should work together through KTP. Elspeth has already made an impact on our business and we are all looking forward to working with her on the project." The University is also toasting the success of two of its completed KTP programmes which have received high gradings. The well publicised Kettering Textiles Ltd KTP for recycled fashion scooped a rare 'excellent' accolade and Solutions Group Plc, Northampton, also achieved a 'very good' rating from the Department of Trade and Industry. John Jones, Business Development Manager, Knowledge Transfer and Commercial Development, The University of Northampton, commented: "These are huge achievements for the University of Northampton and show qualitative results for the merit of KTPs. I'd be delighted to talk with company directors about how KTPs will improve thier bottom line." The University's Knowledge Exchange has responsibility for the institution's KTP portfolio. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact John Jones on 01604 892598 or email: john.jones@northampton.ac.uk
20/11/2006 - What an Enterprising Week!
As Enterprise Week 2006 draws to a close, young people in the East Midlands joined thousands of fellow entrpreneurs across the UK in making a 'date' to get connected as part of 'Speednetwork the Nation'. This year's Enterprise Streak campaign, co-ordinated by East Midlands Development Agency (emda), reached thousands of young people across the region, encouraging them to unleash their entrpreneurial skills and put their enterprising ideas into reality. At least 200 events took place across the East Midlands, to correspond with daily themes such as 'Ideas at Work Day', 'Women's Enterprise Day', and 'Social Enterprise Day', as well as challenges and networking activities. The final day saw young entrepreneurs take part in 'Speednetwork the Nation' - a national initiative aimed at getting young people with enterprising ideas together, to share their entrepreneurial talent. Alison Bingham, Enterprise Development Manager at emda said: "Enterprise Week just keeps growing and growing, and this year there were around 200 events, over 50 more than last year. We also know that there were many more offices, schools and community groups. The region's 'Enterprising Streak' campaign has reached literally thousands of young people. Not only that, it has been a spring board for tha luanch of a range of initiatives, from the Business Birth Rate Strategy to the Social Enterprise Action Plan. "It has been so inspiring and engaging, and has really reached the classroom, creating new relationships between schools and businesses. Encouraging young people to think about thier future careers is so important, and many of the fun events that have taken place this week have given our future workforce the opportunity to see how exciting being an entrepreneur can be." Dr Bryan Jackson, emda's Chairman, attended an event on Tuesday at Bulwell Precision Engineers Ltd as part of 'Ideas at Work Day', which looked at innovation in manufacturing. Young people from three schools across Nottingha, faced a series of challenges, including the infamous 'Plug' game as they toured the factory. He said: "encouraging young people to take an interest in manufacturing is important for our current and future prosperity and complements the East Midlands new vision to create a flourishing region by 2020." The annual Enterprise Week campaign aims to help and encourage young people, aged between 14 and 30 years, to develop their enterprising skills. It is also about promoting a culture and sense of enterprise through a 'can do' attitude in yong people. Alison Bingham added: "Bearing in mind there are approximately 60m communications and IT graduates in India out young people need every bit of support they can get to help them develop a 'can do' attitude and entrpreneurial spirit to compete in theis ever changing global market place." For more information on the enterprise streak campaign, visit: www.enterprisingstreak.co.uk
15/11/2006 - Development Leads to Influx of Jobs
Towns in the north and east of Northamptonshire could benefit from an influx of new employment opportunities as various new commercial developments are proposed and some now reaching fruition says commercial property specialist Underwoods. A mulit-million pound development on the outskirts of Kettering could have a significantly positive economic impact on the area with the creation of approximately 1,000 new jobs. A hotel, restaurant, offices and industrial warehouse are planned on the site of the former ironworks - a current 'eyesore'. Simon Toseland, a Partner heading Underwoods' Wellingborough office, says: "Whilst this scheme is welcomed by Kettering Borough Council and the community, it will need to be approved by the Government Office of the East Midlands as it is outside the Borough's local plan. It is hoped that development will be seen during the coming year." A new £1.6 million theatre at Kettering Leisure Village has recently been approved by planners after a wait of more than two years. The 560 seat theatre at Thurston Drive will replace the McKinlar Theatre at Tresham Institute which will be demolished when the college moves. Phoenix Leisure Management has also submitted plans for a 100-bedroom hotel and conference centre at Kettering Leisure Village. The £6m investment by the company is part of plans to turn the leisure village into the largest conference and exhibition centre in the region, creating betweem 40 and 50 jobs. Plans for a £16m town centre development including shops, offices and flats have been revealed for Station Road. The proposal by Bee Bee Developments and architects C2 is aimed at encouraging shoppers to bring more business back to the Market Place end of town. The wider masterplan for Kettering will involve buying or clearing up land in and around the town centre, particulalry in Wadcroft, Queen Street, Jorse Market and Station Road areas as a move seen by the council to improve the town. Roads will also be improved in a bid to tempt more businesses to set up in the town. The office market in Kettering is to receive a boost as twon new speculative schemes at Kettering Venture Park get underway. Horton Estate Developments in conjunction with Oakham Developments Limited have just commenced construction of Kings Court - providing offices from 2,000 sq ft to 6,000 sq ft. And Brooklands Court, a development of 18 'mews' style properties from just 1,140 sq ft is being developed by Lodge Park Developments. Up to 470 jobs could be brought to Corby as plans for a new warehouse have just been passed. It is likely that Greatline Developments will look to 2007 before commencing construction of this distribution facility, to be built on land behind the power station, near to the site of Rockingham Motor Speedway. This is due to previous contamination of the site left over from the car industry. The development will also be subject to an agreement with the Highways Agency for road improvements and it is thought that Greatline Developments may have to put some funds towards the £6.1m northern orbital road planned for that area. East Northamptonshire is also an area of the county which has witnessed positive new developments, with the potential for an influx of new employment opportunities. This is mainly centred around the A6 bypass and Crown Park. Indeed, along the A6 Rosemound has constructed a 180,000 sq ft distribution centre for Reed Elsevier and Hampton Brook has commenced construction of two new industrial / warehouse units totalling 238,120 sq ft - these have rerortedly been sold as investment opportunities whist at the steel frame stage. At Crown Park construction of a new 13,000 sq ft industrial property by Deejaks is now well advanced and is being marketed by Underwoods at £1.3 million for the freehold interest or to let on a new lease at £5.75 sq ft. The unit is also capable for sub-division to provide 8,000 sq ft and 5,000 sq ft. Construction is also nearing completion on a new office development - Sapphire House, comprising 38,750 sq ft on three floors. Each of the three floors within the building will comprise approximately 12,916 sq ft which will have the ability to be sub-divided into suites of 6,500 sq ft. Towards the end of the year development in expected to commence on the last remianing plot of land at Crown Park - 25,000 sq ft of inductrial accommodation will be constructed to provide units of 5,000 sq ft in two terraces, some with dedicated secure yards. Source: Underwoods, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce.
06/11/2006 - Silverstone Hosts Sky Challenge
Silverstone Stages Sky One's Week-long Reality TV Racing Challenge: The Race - Live every night at 10.00pm from November 6th to November 12th on Sky One! Sky One has announced the full team line-ups for the week-long reality racing challenge at the world famous Silverstone race track, as five celebrity boys take on five celebrity girls in a full throttle battle of the sexes. Under the guidance of Formula One legends David Coulthard and Eddie Irvine and the the watchful eye of host Denise van Outen, UK & US stars of sport, muisc, film and television will be going head-to-head everyday for a week, racing everything from sports cars to monster trucks in the battle for pole position. Captained by Eddie Irvine and David Coulthard, the ten celebrity racers are: THE BOYS - Eddie Irvine, Team Captain; Nigel Benn, Former boxing World Champion; Les Ferdinand, Former England footballer; Brian Johnson, Lead singer AC/DC; Nick Moran, Lock, Stock star; Gary Numan, 80's pop legend. THE GIRLS - David Coulthard, Team Captain; Ms. Dynamite, Urban music maestro; Tamara Ecclestone, Presenter & daughter of F1 CEO; Jenny Frost, Pop star and ex-Atomic Kitten; Melissa Joan Hart, Former teenage starlet; Ingrid Tarrant, TV personality & travel writer. Before the real trials begin, in the first show eacg celebrity will have to obtain their Advanced Racing Drivers certificate (ARDS) to qualify them for the challenges ahead to ensure they have the necessary skills to cope. If they can't make it past this then they don't belong in The Race. From then on, it's high octane entertainment as every day each team member will line up for a main event while one driver from each team will step forward to take part in a one-on-one driving duel, the Rev Head Challenge. With the pressure all on one person to bag valuable points and move their team up the grid positions, this will be a true test of character. On to each days' main event when the celebs will compete as a team against the opposite sex in everything from monster trucks to the formula Lotus sports cars to improve their Grand Prix grid standing and avoid being handed the suit of shame. With team pride and camaraderie playing as big a part as personal rivalries and self esteem, passions and tensions are set to run high. Host of The Race Denise van Outen said: "I can't wait to get trackside with the girls and boys to find out once and for all which sex really is better behind the wheel. This is going to be the hardest week of some of our celbrities lives and with Daivd & Eddie in charge I can't see anyone being given an easy ride." Overseeing everything will be safety expert Dave Allen, lads lieutenant Steve Deeks, girls guide Liz Halliday and of course David & Eddie, stepping in to pass judgement on their team's performance. As if competing together wasn't enough to fray the nerves, all the celebrities will be living together for the week in a purpose built compound situated within the confines of Silverstone. They'll have all the comforts of custombuilt luxury buses but with the cameras following them here we'll get to see how much heat they carry with them away from the circuit. Every night live at 10.00pm on Sky One from the studio at Silverstone, Denise van Outen will be looking back at the day's highlights from the track, as well as inviting a selection of celebrities in to talk through their triumphs and disappointments. Viewers can then switch over to Sky Three when from 11.00pm Iain Lee will take viewers further behind the scenes with more news & interviews trackside from throughout the day. When the dust settles on Friday it's time to lose one member of each team as David & Eddie are asked to assess each of their team member's performance and select their weakest driver for elimination. It's then on to Sunday's Grand Prix as our remaining eight drivers strap themselves into their high-spec Formula Fords, capable of 0-100kph in under five seconds, putting the week's lessons to the test with 30 laps around one of Silverstone's trickiest tracks in the thrilling finale. As the celebs go under starters orders they know they'll have to work with their colleagues to ensure valuable points for a team victory, while at the same time it's every man and woman for themselves as they all compete to be crowned champion. As the chequered flag falls for the last time, either boys or girls will prove theu had the skill and endurance to come out on top, while only one racing wannabe will pick up the trophy and spray the champagne as winner of Sky One's The Race.
06/11/2006 - New Civic Centre for Corby Proposed
The radical transfomration of a town centre has moved another step forward as plans for a £27m civic centre and community building have been submitted. A new theatre, library, council chamber, restaurant and room for weddings will be housed in the gigantic glass cube which has been designed as the jewel in the crown of Corby town centre's multi-million pound facelift. The hub, known as Corby Cube, will be made up of five floors, plus an underground level which will house a 450-seater theatre, hair salon and cafe. The ground floor will include the library - whch is being paid for by the county council - and on top of that will be a One Stop Shop offering access to council services. The Welfare Rights Organisation and Citizens Advice Bureau will also have offices on the floor. Level Two will be home to a state-of-the-art council chamber, which will also double as a wedding room for civil ceremonies, while level three will accommodate the members suite, a public gallery to view the council chamber and a chief executive's suite. On top of that will be a large restaurant offering diners views of the town and a rooftop terrace. Council Leader Pat Fawcett said: "It it fantastic, and is about investing in the people of Corby, as they deserve it. It will benefit people in so many ways." The council is also looking at plans to site a wind turbine on one side of the hub. A report prepared by architects Hawkins Brown says: "A turbine would be a strong dynamic symbol of the council's commitment to renewable energy." The Corby Cube is the first phase in the town centre's Parkland Gateway reconstruction, which also includes an £18m 50m pool complex, a new Tresham College and a residential development. If permission is granted when it goes before the planning committee in the next few months, diggers could be on site early next year, with the unveiling planned for 2009. Work has already started on a shopping centre called Willow Place by Town Centre owners Land Securities. The space around the hub will also have outdoor seating for al fresco dining and there are plans for a piece of public art. As part of the plans, George Street will be pedestrianised to create a town square feel, with a pathway called Town Walk linking the hub with Corporation Street and then running through the town down to the Station Gateway site off Cottingham Road. Source: NorthantsNews 03/11/06
02/11/2006 - Forest Walk Wins Design Award
The team behind Salcey Forest's tree-top trail is celebrating after the walkway won a top environmental design award only a year after it opened. The 300 metre long timber trail, which gives a bird's eye view of the ancient forest near Hartwell, scooped the British Construction Industry Environment Award. The walkway impressed judges who said it was "delightful and usable", and "a great eco-project, which has drawn crowds of entusiastic visitors". The panel also praised the fact the trail used locally-sourced timber, and gave children and adults alike a completely new experience of trees and forests. Kevin Stannard, Forestry Commission manager in Northamptonshire said: "It's fantastic that the project has been recognised by the contruction industry as having national importance. When we conceived the idea, we were only thinking of local community use and putting something into the community woodlands, so we are gobsmacked and very pleased that it's won a national environmental award". The walkway was also shortlisted for the Prime Minister's award for better public buildings. Mr. Stannard said: "To be shortlisted for the Prime Minister's award shows we hace achieved what we set out to achieve; excellence in design in the natural realm. It shows we have contributed something special to the area, and that is really great for us." The £700,000 trail was designed by the Forestry Commission's forestry civil engineering team and opened in November last year. At its highest point is a 20 metre observation platform with views across the woodlands. It was delivered by the commission as part of the River Nene Regional Park, an independent partnership, and supported by West Northamptonshire Urban Development Company (now WNDC). The trail was funded by the Department for Communities & Local Government. Jason Longhurst, director of the River Nene Regional Park, added: "This is the first signature project that the partnership has embarked upon, and to have our work recognised with this award is a fabulous achievement for everyone involved."
02/11/2006 - University Launches New Club to Inspire Enterprise
02/11/2006 - Double Bus Success for County Council
Northamptonshire County Council's bus-friendly policies have seen the organisation pick up two commendations at the country’s national bus service awards yesterday (1 NOV). Judges for the annual UK Bus Awards awarded a commendation to the council in the transport authority of the year category in recognition of its pro-bus policies. In addition, the council was commended along with its highways partner Atkins and Stagecoach East in the bus marketing campaign of the year. Councillor Bob Seery, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: ""The bus awards are of an extremely prestigious nature as they recognise excellence in the provision of public transport and I’m delighted that our achievements have again been recognised nationally in this way. "What is particularly recognised in these awards is the fact that the county council has achieved a 16 per cent increase in the use of public transport, which is the most vital statistic in assessing our achievements. "However, it is not just the provision of more buses of a modern standard throughout the county - in co-operation with service providers - which has made a major contribution in this respect, but also the significant improvements made in other related areas. "This includes important public transport information systems; the introduction of new maps, timetable booklets and displays; the provision of a co-ordinated bus ticket scheme and the upgrading of facilities. "It also involves a great deal of commitment by all staff involved in the services particularly as there is an ongoing programme of further improvements." The award judges examined the council’s work in a number of areas, including: its public transport information strategy which has seen the introduction of new maps, timetables booklets and interchange displays to promote the county’s public transport services; the development of Real Time - a passenger information system which now covers 92 stops and five routes; the introduction of Buzz Card - a bus ticket scheme allowing passengers to make unlimited journeys with any operator in Northampton; Getting Northampton to Work - a £12.5m project to reduce congestion and improve travel choice in Northampton, with engineering improvements to cycleways, walkways and bus routes; improvements to some of the major junctions to enhance traffic flow in the town; and upgrades to facilities for passengers at all stops on the core commercial bus network. Over 800 bus stops have been improved to date; Travel plans - the council has worked with schools and major employers in the county including Barclaycard, University of Northampton, Kettering and Northampton general hospitals and Weetabix to develop ways to reduce reliance on the car by staff; specific services such as Corby Star, the X4 service; service 88/89 and X46. The council’s second commendation is for its successful marketing campaign to launch the new Connect Kettering service, a radically revised route network. The campaign included: an investment of more than £1 million to purchase a fleet of state-of-the-art new buses; the design of new branding of the buses which ensured the services were marketed as distinctly as possible; the door-to-door distribution of taster leaflets; a high-profile media launch. The UK Bus Awards recognise best practice in the bus industry and see bus operators, local authorities and other organisations compete for the prestigious titles. The awards were previously known as the Bus Oscars, and previous bus awards for Northamptonshire County Council include: 2001 Great Central Connexion commended in the Bus in the Countryside category; 2002 Banbury - Brackley service 500 winner of the Bus in the Countryside category; 2003 Corby Star runner-up in the Successful Partnerships category; 2005 X4 commended in the Successful Partnerships category; 2005 Northamptonshire County Council commended in the Transport Authority of the Year category.
01/11/2006 - Rockingham Aims to Raise City Profile
City workers in London are being targeted by Rockingham Motor Speedway in a bid to raise its profile within the capital's finance and legal sectors. As part of the awareness campaing Rockingham will be hosting a promotional event at a private members bar in the heart of the city tomorrow (Wednesday 1st November). Around 200 invited guests will get a taste of Rockingham with the premiere of the new corporate DVD, which showcases the diversity of the circuit and the various driving experiences on offer. Former Formula One racing driver Eddie Irvine will be helping the Rockingham team at the event and guests will be putting their skills to the test on an F1 simulator and Scalectrix track. Rockingham Director of Sales and Marketing Charlotte Bushby said: "The event is aimed at raising our profile as one of the country's leading corporate venues and to promote the various driving experiences we have to offer. "In the past 12 months we have managed to build a good reputation for being a top corporate venue and we now want to expand on this by focusing on new target audiences such as the finance and legal sectors". To demonstrate its commitment to raising the company's profile within the city, Rockingham has appointed a new dedicated sales person, Marc Speed, who will be based in London and the South East to assist with enquiries. Corby & East Northamptonshire MP Phil Hope has been invited to the event along with North Northamptonshire Development Company Chairman Bob Lane to raise awareness of the growth and regeneration of the area.
01/11/2006 - Centre of Excellence
Professor Alan Waller outlined the importance of logistics in the global economy and the vital need for industry training when he spoke at the official opening of Northampton College's Centre of Vocational Excellence in Logistics (CoVE). The College is dedicated to logistics training and was awarded interim CoVE status in May before re-modelling its site at Daventry over the summer to make way for a state-of-the-art 'Excellence in Logistics' centre and conference facility. Professor Waller, President of Chartered Institute of Logistics and Training (CILT), marked the Centre's special launch event by encouraging businesses actively to seek opportunities to upgrade their knowledge. During his enthusiastic speech, he commended the College's investment saying: "There is a hunger for logistics training and qualifications in China and other developing nations which does not exist in the mature economy of the UK. The East Midlands, particularly Northamptonshire, is important in the development of logistics operations and training and the College's new Centre of Excellence in Logistics will bring positive effects to the industry in Daventry. Northamptonshire and the South East Midlands." Over 60 guests and members of the public had a chance to experience what the centre has to offer by taking part in various activities and workshops throught the day. Training available includes a full suite of llogistics qualifications, related NVQs, customised courses, Apprenticeships, LGV Licences and professional certificates. Len Closs, College Principal, said: "Our new Centre of Excellence is an exciting venture for the College and, by holding this event to demonstrate the benefits of choosing Northampton College as the foremost training provider, we look forward to serving the training and development needs of the sector for years to come." Source: Business Times November 2006.