Media enquiries:

Simon Gilbert

Advent Communications

2 Edison Building

Electric Wharf

Sandy Lane

Coventry CV1 4JA

Tel: 024 7663 3636

http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

ENDS

Media enquiries:

Simon Gilbert

Advent Communications

2 Edison Building

Electric Wharf

Sandy Lane

Coventry CV1 4JA

Tel: 024 7663 3636

http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Adam Dent

Advent Communications

2 Edison BuildingElectric Wharf

Sandy Lane

Coventry CV1 4JA

Tel: 024 7663 3636

http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Bosses at a construction firm were so pleased with the quality of one its building projects that it has decided to move in.National maintenance and build experts Rok have relocated to a new base at Pavilion House in Tournament Court, Warwick – a building the company constructed itself under its previous guise of Sol Construction.The company, which was previously based just two miles away on the Coventry Road, decided to relocate its 30-strong workforce to the two-storey 3,063 sq ft building where it hopes to continue its growth.Hania Knox, business development executive at Rok, said: “The layout of these new offices suits our needs much more than our previous location – they also project a professional image to our clients.“It was not really possible for us to alter the internal set-up at our old building so moving to these offices resolved all of our issues.“We are always looking to expand our workforce when opportunities present themselves and we have the capacity to do that here at Tournament Court.”Rok will specialise in smaller building schemes, maintenance and service work in the area. The company will also be working closely with local clients such as Warwickshire County Council, Warwick District Council, University of Warwick and Coventry University.Two Leamington based property firms – Wareing & Company and EHB Commercial – arranged the deal to move Rok to Tournament CourtPaul Ludlow, of Tournament Fields developer Sackville Developments Ltd, said: “It really is a homecoming for Rok, and pleasing that we have been able to help attract a company of Rok’s stature to the site.“It is a ringing endorsement of the quality of the development at Tournament Court and we are sure they will be very happy here.”In order to showcase its new home to its customers Rok hosted an open day at the new headquarters, in Tournament Fields, which was well attended by clients and neighbouring businesses.Sackville has already created more than 85,000 sq ft of high quality office accommodation at the 52 acre site and has consent for three further headquarters totalling more than 70,000 sq ft.Tournament Fields is in an unrivalled location just off Junction 15 of the M40 and a short drive from Warwick town centre. The prime business location is quickly establishing itself as one of the most prestigious business parks in the region.ENDS Media enquiries:Simon GilbertAdvent Communications2 Edison BuildingElectric WharfSandy LaneCoventry CV1 4JATel: 024 7663 3636

http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Media enquiries:
Simon Gilbert
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Nuneaton homebuilder Cartwright Homes bought the Fox & Crane pub in Weddington Road from national brewer Mitchells & Butlers with help from Coventry and Warwickshire property agents Shortland Horne.

Mark Sills, a director of Shortland Horne, introduced Cartwright Homes to the site and a deal was concluded swiftly and permission has been given for a change of use.

Work has now started to transform the old pub into a handful of spacious, luxury apartments while a range of traditional three and four-bedroom homes will be built in the grounds.

Now Shortland Horne will be selling the properties for Cartwright Homes and the company has received a series of enquires from the signage alone.

Mark said: “The site was ripe for development and with my knowledge of both M&B and Cartwright Homes, I knew it was a perfect fit to bring them together for this deal.

“This is in a very good part of Nuneaton and the development will prove to be very attractive to a range of buyers. It already is, in fact, as we’ve already had a number of people asking to register their interest before we have even released prices.

“We are delighted to have been involved in this deal and look forward to helping Cartwright Homes make the development a success.”

Andrew Cartwright, director of Cartwright Homes, said the scheme would bring the historic building back to life.

He said: “We are really looking forward to transforming it into apartments and it will bring a very attractive building back into use.

“On top of the conversion of the building into apartments, we have already started work on the new build houses.

“And they will be houses that are much sought-after – traditional two-storey homes with gardens, appealing to a wide market. We are all very excited about this project.”

Cartwright Homes and Shortland Horne have worked together in the past to bring schemes to fruition throughout the Midlands.

Shortland Horne has a hugely successful New Homes and Land division that has helped oversee the sale and development of thousands of properties across the Coventry and Warwickshire region.

More information on the new development on the site of the Fox & Crane is available from Shortland Horne on 024 7622 0444.

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Around 70 people gathered at the Gurdwara Sahib, in Queensway, to learn about the construction project, which was conceived in 1999. Construction started in 2008 and it was finally opened last October.

The event, organised by Wright Hassall solicitors, included talks from Dr Gurdev Singh – the man behind the concept –
Phillida Turrell of architects MCP Partnership, Harnam Ghatuara of structural engineers GCA and James Button of quantity surveyors Starkey Button.

Matthew Phipps, a member of Wright Hassall’s construction & engineering team which advised the Gurdwara’s builders, AC Lloyd, on the project, said it had been a ‘fascinating’ event.

“The Gurdwara has been one of Leamington’s biggest and most exciting developments in the last decade and it is an absolutely stunning temple,” Mr Phipps said.

“It was very interesting to hear from Gurdev, who explained how this project went from his initial dream and drawings to the impressive landmark we see today.

“The sheer size of the building obviously creates unique challenges. For instance, we heard how the whole development had to be moved forward by a metre due to the location of a major sewage pipe.  This itself presented the engineers and architect with a fresh set of challenges.

“I am sure that the Gurdwara will continue to define the local landscape for many years to come.”

The Gurdwara was consecrated in October and primarily serves the 4,000 strong Sikh community in Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth area.

This event was organised as part of Wright Hassall’s series of Construction Law Bytes seminars, which focus on different aspects of the construction industry and take place monthly.

For more information about the Law Bytes series, visit www.wrighthassall.co.uk or call Caroline Venuto 01926 886688.

Ends

Media enquiries:
Dan Donovan
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

City centre-based Shortland Horne has been instructed by developers St. Modwen to help attract companies to its Whitley Business Park scheme, which is situated near to the junction of the A45 and A46.

The landmark development is centred round the retained Jaguar Engineering Centre, within 93 acres of a landscape setting.

Work is already well underway on the first phase – Lakeside – which features eight buildings of between 3,116 sq ft and 25,960sq ft.

David Penn, director of Shortland Horne Commercial, said the company’s blend of local knowledge and national contacts would help attract occupiers to the development.

He said: “This is a very significant scheme in the regeneration of Coventry and we are very pleased to be on-board because we believe we can help to make the development a major success.

“St. Modwen is one of the most highly-regarded names in commercial development and they are transforming this into a scheme of which the whole City can be proud.

“It is very well located, has a good blend of office sizes to meet the needs of a variety of companies and, which is very important in this current climate, it is sustainable with a very good BREEAM environmental assessment rating.

“There are further phases to follow and, once complete, the whole scheme will be a huge employment area for Coventry.”

Shortland Horne join Birmingham-based Savills as agents for the scheme.

John Dodds, of St Modwen, said: “We were looking to work with another agent here at Whitley Business Park and Shortland Horne fitted the bill perfectly.

“We are confident that over the coming weeks and months, we will start to see the scheme become a hub for a range of office-based businesses and warehouse and industrial operators.”

As well as the quality of the build and overall development of the site, Whitley Park is very well located.

It fronts the A45 Coventry Road and is just a few hundred yards from its junction with the A46.

The development is also within three minutes’ drive of Coventry City Centre and, therefore, just two miles from the train station. There are also shops, a hotel and gym nearby.

The M6 is just six miles from Whitley Park while Birmingham International is 11 miles away.

Penn added: “St Modwen has created a commercial development that will stand the test of time and one that will be of huge significance to Coventry.”

Prices are available upon application. More information is available from Shortland Horne on 024 7623 2970 or from Savills 0121 633 3733.

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Shortland Horne, which has three offices across the city, saw its earned-income rise by more than 40 per cent during the final quarter of 2009 compared the same time the previous year and is confident that trend will continue over the next 12 months.

Director Andrew Moss said that properties were selling well but added that a bigger supply of houses was vital to help the market return in earnest.

He said: “We had, by the industry standards of the last couple of years, a good 2009 and there is no question that there is a pent up demand for people wanting or having to move.

“We have definitely seen an improvement in the time it takes to market and then sell a home.

“There is no question that there has been a sizeable correction in the market over the last 18 months but there are strong signs that stability is returning.

“Owners of properties in good order, in good locations, and who are realistic, stand a good chance of achieving a sale.

“The one factor we need to return is general business confidence. People have been, and still are, understandably worried about the overall economic situation and until some feeling of job security returns, that will continue to affect the market.”

Moss added that the improvement in the market was not confined to any particular sector of the market or location.

“Having three offices in the city really does allow us to compare different locations but we have noticed an improvement across all areas of Coventry and in differing price brackets.

“Obviously the wintery weather has slowed things down a little, but hopefully things will pick up and continue to grow.”

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Barry Sankey, of Wright Hassall, has completed 100 leases in 12 months for the University of Warwick Science Park, which has four sites across the region.

Mr Sankey started working for the embryonic University of Warwick Science Park in 1982, and has been their retained property lawyer ever since.

And the last 12 months have meant another busy year for both him and the sites, despite economic pressures.

“Considering this was a year when many businesses have struggled, the innovative firms at the park have continued to grow and see the glass as half full,” Mr Sankey said.

“We have completed 100 leases – for both new properties, expansions and renewals.

“We’ve always believed in regular communication with the tenants even though we act for their landlord and, as a result, we’ve found that many are committing to new leases to give their businesses a long-term agenda.

“I think that speaks volumes about what the Science Park offers tenants and it is no surprise to me that they seem to have ridden out the recession well.”

The University of Warwick Science Park has helped hundreds of businesses – from start-up to fully fledged businesses - and has two sites in Coventry, one in Solihull and one in Warwick.

John Barnes, manager of the Warwick Innovation Centre on Gallows Hill, said: “We’ve found that this year we’ve had a lot more renewals than departures so that’s excellent news and a sign of the resilience of the businesses on our parks.

“We have worked with Barry for 27 years and the relationship has always been good. Being with Wright Hassall, means that he is now just round the corner from our Warwick site, which is obviously a bonus, and we hope that 2010 goes as well as 2009.”

Media enquiries:
Adam Dent
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Property company Earlplace, based near Solihull, bought a site in Scholars Lane from the NFU Mutual in September 2008, which it wanted to develop as a care home for the elderly.

It won planning consent for a 63-bed home from Stratford District Council in April but decided to sell the site to a care home operator.

Now Surrey-based Restful Homes has paid £1.5 million for the site and is expected to start work later this year.

Lawrence Grove, managing director of Earlplace, said the deal was a record outside London.

He said: “We acted for ourselves in this transaction but have been told by property experts in the care home field that it was a record for a site outside London taking into account the size of the home which will be created.

“It says something not only about the site but also about the desirability of Stratford as a place to live, that this can be achieved at a time when funding for such projects is very hard to come by.

“We financed the deal ourselves, without help from the banks, and several major operators in the care home field were interested but could not raise the finance.

“Restful Homes were keen to establish in the area and the deal went extremely smoothly.”

Media enquiries:
Adam Dent
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Benfield Construction is completing a £500,000 extension at St. Anne’s Catholic Primary School in Caversham, Reading.

The Paynes Lane company – part of the KB Benfield Goup, which has been established for more than 75 years, has carried out work across the region but only rarely works outside the Midlands.

It landed the contract at the Berkshire school through the Diocese and Schools Commission earlier this year and now the project is drawing to a conclusion.

Martin Woodhouse, managing director of Benfield Construction, said the firm’s work had proved popular with schools throughout 2009.

He said: “It has been a tough time for the construction industry, everyone has recognised that.

“But we have always prided ourselves on making sure we deliver projects on time and on budget and that has stood us in good stead during the past 12 months.

“We have been particularly successful with a number of schools across the Midlands but this work was further than we normally travel for a particular project – so we really have gone the extra mile for our client.”

The work included the building of a single storey extension to create a new reception classroom, cloaks area, store, toilets, wet area and circulation area.

External work also had to be carried out as well as associated electrical and mechanical work.

Martin added: “The school building has remained in full use during the work which presents a challenge but it is one that we are more than happy to meet and follow all of the relevant procedures.”
Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

The three-bedroom home is the final chance for buyers to purchase at Satchells Court – a superb selection of properties on a secure, gated development in the conservation area, in Dunchurch Road.

The home has been finished to a supreme standard and includes a fully fitted kitchen and bathroom, with ceramic flooring.

Clive Benfield, the chairman of Benfield Homes, said the company had stuck to its principles of creating high-quality homes and that buyers had responded to that.

He said: “There is no denying that we have seen a tough market on a national scale in the past year but Satchells Court has remained very popular with purchasers.

“So much so, that there is now just one house remaining at the development and we anticipate some very strong interest in this final three-bedroom home.

“Over the years, we have developed a very good reputation for building high-quality homes and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.

“We have done the same again here at Satchells Court and that is why the development is close to being full. Any buyer who wants to purchase here, needs to move quickly.”

The final available property is on the market at £230,000 with the possibility of part exchange. Buyers could also benefit from an Easymover scheme where Benfield Homes help them to sell their existing property.

The development benefits from a very good location: Rugby School is just over the road, while Satchells Court is set within a conservation area.

It’s just a short walk into town which means easy access to shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and other amenities. It also benefits from excellent transport links.

More information is available from Benfield Homes on 024 7622 7557 or from Howkins & Harrison on 01788 564666.

Media enquiries:
Simon Gilbert
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Crown Oil UK managing director, Matthew Greensmith, explained, “Nine months ago, we decided to carbon-offset the transportation of our commercial diesel. This proved extremely popular, especially with clients in construction, where the pressure to reduce the carbon impact of their operations is intense. The new ‘green’ diesel takes this a step further so that those companies engaged in carbon accounting can use Crown Oil UK’s diesel to contribute to their carbon reduction commitment.”

The carbon credits purchased by Crown Oil UK on behalf of its customers will go into worldwide carbon reduction projects. These may include green energy production by the combustion of the landfill gas – one of the most potent greenhouse gasses. Reforestation projects to lock-up carbon also qualify – these often have additional environmental benefits for wildlife, recreation and reduction in flash flooding. These high quality carbon credits are retired from the market, reducing the world capacity to produce carbon dioxide.

Over and above this, Crown Oil UK is actively taking further steps to reduce their carbon footprint. This includes upgrading the tanker fleet to more efficient vehicles and taking active energy saving steps in the workplace with low energy bulbs, better controls and a comprehensive recycling programme for waste material.

Crown Oil UK provide a nationwide service to the construction industry, working with major contractors to provide fuel and secure storage to plant depots and construction sites.

More Information

Mark Andrews, Group General Manager, Crown Oil UK
Tel. +44 (0)845 130 9777 Fax. +44 (0)845 130 9888
E-mail: mark@crownoil.co.uk Web: www.crownoiluk.com
Crown Oil UK, The Oil Centre, Bury New Road, Heap Bridge, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 7HY, UK

Notes – Carbon Offsetting Explained

The aim of carbon offsetting is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon offsets are measured in metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. One carbon offset equals one metric tonne. Industries that are heavy producers of green house gasses have consents, known as carbon credits that set a limit on their capacity to produce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses. If they need to go beyond this cap then they must offset their carbon production by buying carbon offsets.

New carbon offsets are created by projects such as forestry or wind farms that either absorb carbon or produce carbon-free energy. Offsetting can therefore be achieved by either supporting ‘green’ initiatives or by the purchase and retirement of carbon credits so that there is less capacity available to produce greenhouse gas.

A Coventry firm has topped off a recession-beating 2009 by moving to new headquarters.

Elite Business Services, which sells accounting and business computer software across the Midlands, needed to expand after seeing its profits grow year-on-year.

The company has now moved to Sycamore Court on Birmingham Road, where it will has purchased a two floor 4,343 sq ft office.

Zaid Rehman, managing director of Elite, said: “We have had continuous growth over recent years and the credit crunch hasn’t put a stop to that.

“We’ve worked hard to attract new clients and ensure our existing customers are well looked after.

“It reached a point where we needed to upgrade our facilities and create extra space, both for our current activities and for future growth.

“We have purchased a two floor office at Sycamore Court, even though we only need one floor at present – and that is an indication of our plans to grow over the coming years.

“The move has gone down well with our current staff too – we’ve now got a ‘chill out’ room and an orchard complete with rabbits! It’s a very nice environment and we’re looking forward to a successful future here.”

Elite Business Services, who had been based in Coundon for 13 years, secured the move through Bromwich Hardy.

Tom Bromwich, partner at the Coventry-based commercial agents, said: “Elite has been looking for a new office for some time, but had a certain type of property in mind.

“The Sycamore Court property fitted the bill – and it means Elite can rent one floor for the foreseeable future but have room to expand further down the line.

“The company had been in a building which was a bank in the 1930s, so their new office is certainly modern in comparison!”

Ends

Media enquiries:
Dan Donovan
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Media enquiries:
Simon Gilbert
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Broadcaster Bob Warman and Birmingham City Council leader Cllr Mike Whitby officially opened Signature’s development in High Street, Harbourne, revealing its unique take on retirement living.

And already four of the homes have been reserved by eager over-55s.

Colette Evans, of Signature, said: “We are very pleased with the interest and the fact that reservations have been made so quickly.

“Ahead of the launch, we were sure we had an excellent product that mixed quality apartments with superb facilities for the over-55s but you can never be 100 per cent sure that it will be converted into interest and sales.

“But this unique brand of apartments coupled with the Signature Club, which consists of a Wellness Centre with spa, gym and treatment rooms is capturing the imagination.”

Signature homes are designed to help the over-55s live their retirement to the full and on top of all the amenities available nearby, they also benefit from a roof top terrace, a 24-hour receptionist, concierge, chauffeur, cleaning service and laundry service.

Colette added: “We have seen so many headlines lately regarding the population getting older. That may well be true when it comes to their age but in terms of people’s outlook, they are getting younger.

“Many people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s are looking to make the most of life – whether that’s by going to the gym, eating out, going shopping or going to the movies or the theatre.

“This is a great location for them to be able to do that. And there are certainly not many retirement developments where you get your own chauffer thrown into the bargain!”

Each individual apartment provides the owner with independent living in sumptuous surroundings.

They come complete with fitted kitchens and bathrooms, while Signature employs a local, award-winning interior designer to help tailor the style of each home to every individual’s taste.

The homes are also extremely secure with on-site staff at hand 24 hours a day as well as having a secure double wave audio access system.

The city centre is close by along with a range of golf courses, Edgbaston Cricket Ground, live entertainment venues and Birmingham International Airport.

Prices start at £249,000 and more information is available from Signature Lifestyle on 0121 4106731. Alternatively, information is available from Savills on 0121 634 8484, Hadleigh on 0121 427 1213, Robert Powell & Co on 0121 454 6930, or by logging onto www.signatureapartments.co.uk

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Legacy Hotels and Resorts has taken over the operations and management of the former Quality Hotel in Cardiff in a deal initially worth £450,000.

An identical amount is also being spent on revamping the newly-named Cardiff International Hotel near junction 32 of the M4 on Merthyr Road.

The 95-bedroom hotel, which was previously leased to the Real Hotel Company, has been closed since this February following the administration of the company and a phased re-opening is due to start in the autumn.

Andy Townsend, chief executive of Legacy Hotels and Resorts, said he was delighted to reach the milestone within four years of the company being set up.

“The Cardiff International Hotel becomes the 21th hotel in our group and our 13th under a full management contract,” he said.

“This now means we have a total of 1,295 bedrooms across our portfolio and due to our associate hotels, we have acquired venues in five countries.

“From a staff perspective we now have 589 employees across the group and we will be recruiting up to 75 full and part time at the Cardiff International Hotel ahead of our staggered re-opening.

“The investors are initially spending £450,000 on overhauling the hotel with a thorough cleaning and redecoration programme, introducing new furnishings, fabrics, carpets and televisions in the bedrooms and public areas.

“We plan to re-open the hotel in various stages starting with the public areas and 54 of the guestrooms on November 2 this year shortly followed by the 41 balance of rooms by November 22.

“The hotel is situated in a great location for commuters and leisure guests and has a leisure club as well as a restaurant, bar and a series of meeting and banqueting rooms.

“The hotel was leased to the Real Hotel Company by a consortium of Danish investors and when the Real Hotel Company went into administration earlier this year, it was closed by the administrators.

“We are highly experienced in working with Danish investment consortiums in the Midlands and the north east of England and we are looking forward to expanding our operation in Wales.

“This project was another introduction made to us by Chris Moore, Head of Hotels at Colliers Robert Barry, and is the second hotel in Cardiff that we have acquired over the last few months to operate and manage.

“The phased re-opening is expected to start on November 2 as we continue to enjoy an exciting period of growth for the company.”

NOTES TO EDITORS

Legacy Hotels and Resorts currently operates and manages The Legacy Falcon Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Legacy Oaklands Country House Hotel near Grimsby, The Legacy Chesterfield Hotel in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, The Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel in Salisbury, The Legacy Aston Court Hotel in Derby, The Legacy Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis, Snowdonia, The Legacy Botleigh Grange Hotel & Spa near Southampton, The Legacy Preston International, Lancashire, The Legacy Hampshire Hotel in St Helier, Jersey, The Royal Hotel Cardiff and The Wyck Hill House Hotel and Spa in Gloucestershire and The Legacy Three Swans Hotel in Hungerford, Berkshire.

Legacy Hotels and Resorts has eight associate hotels, The Wild Pheasant, The Bryn Howel and The Chainbridge Hotels in Llangollen, The Diplomat Hotel in Llanelli, and The Normandy Hotel and The Erskine Bridge Hotel in Glasgow, The White Hart Inn at Chalfont St Giles and has an alliance partnership with the Hotel Cortijo Salinas in Southern Spain.

For more information about Legacy Hotels and Resorts log on to www.legacy-hotels.co.uk

Media enquiries:
Adam Dent
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Signature is launching the first of three developments in Harborne High Street on Saturday, September 26 and will reveal its unique take on retirement homes.

The Signature apartments open up a world of luxury living that keeps residents at the heart of the action by making sure their social lives remain active.

Each apartment can take advantage of the Signature Club, which consists of a Wellness Centre with Spa, gym and treatment rooms.  There is also a roof top terrace, a 24-hour receptionist, concierge, chauffeur, cleaning service, laundry service and the apartments are also within easy reach of the city centre.

Colette Evans, of Signature Apartments, said: “There is a niche in this market that most other developers do not even look into.

“There is now a breed of retirees that want to stay where the action is but don’t want to compromise on the quality of the home they live in.

“We keep hearing all the time that the population is ageing but people in their 50s, 60s and 70s and even 80s are feeling younger than ever and want to carry on living life to the full.

“That is where we feel this new concept of retirement living comes in. People can maintain a very active social life within Signature complexes but are also on the cusp of the city centre and the shopping, sports, dining, drinking and other leisure activities it has to offer.

“They used to say that life begins at 40 but in this case it would seem it actually starts at 55!”

Each individual apartment provided the owner with independent living in sumptuous surroundings.

They come complete with fitted kitchens and bathrooms, while Signature employs a local, award-winning interior designer to help tailor the style of each home to every individual’s taste.

The homes are also extremely secure with on-site staff at hand 24 hours a day as well as a secure double wave audio access system.

The city centre is close by along with a range of golf courses, Edgbaston Cricket Ground, live entertainment venues and Birmingham International Airport.

Colette added: “We are expecting very strong interest in our open day in September and have two further developments in Edgbaston coming on stream very soon.

“Anyone wanting to secure their future in a Signature home should pop along and see us on the day.”

Mike Whitby, Birmingham City Council Leader will formally open Signature at Harborne Village Mews, with Bob Warman present as guest of honour, both will become honorary members of the Signature Club. The event will take place from 11am until 3pm on Saturday, September 26.

Prices start at £249,000 and more information is available from Signature Lifestyle on 0121 4106731. Alternatively, information is available from Savills on 0121 634 8484, Hadleigh on 0121 427 1213, Robert Powell & Co on 0121 454 6930, or by logging onto www.signatureapartments.co.uk

Pictures: Two shots of the apartments along with a picture of the Wellness Centre Spa

Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Shortland Horne director Mark Sills has completed a third deal in the area involving national pub and restaurant operator Mitchells & Butlers.

He was involved from start to finish in a transaction which saw local homebuilder O’Flanagan Homes purchase the former Hawthorn Tree pub on Broad Lane from the company.

Sills has also played a key role in working with the builder’s planning team in order to get a change of use on the site to allow the homebuilder to create a mix of family properties.

He said: “I am extremely pleased to have played a key role in bringing this opportunity forward.

“I have worked with Mitchells & Butlers and O’Flanagans in the past and, once again, everything went very smoothly. Bringing these two parties together proved to be ideal for this project.

“That has led to some very exciting plans for new houses in the area which I believe represent exactly what discerning purchasers are looking for in a home.”

Work is now underway on site on the collection of visually striking high specification homes, which have been designed with an art-deco feel – in-keeping with the former pub – even incorporating a small gated rear courtyard.

Danny O’Flanagan, of O’Flanagan Homes, said: “This is a great site and it has been great to work with Mark again to bring it forward.

“We are on site now and the footings are going in and we will look to begin sales early in the New Year.

“The homes have been specifically designed for this site being set behind deep grass verges and hedgerows. They are traditional two-storey, predominantly detached family homes and we believe they will be very popular and expect there to be significant interest.

“Prospective purchasers can register their interest with Shortland Horne straight away.”

For more information contact Shortland Horne on 024 7622 0444.

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

After almost a decade of running their own business, Abode Interior Design Limited - of which the last four years has been an interior design studio and retail outlet in Shipston-on-Stour - owners Jacqueline and Simon Duffay are moving on to pastures new.

The couple is selling their five-bedroom mixed residential and commercial property at 24 Church Street with property specialists Shortland Horne, and hope that the 220-year-old building will open the doors to a new lifestyle for the next owners.

The listed building is on the market for £395,000 and represents a great business opportunity for someone looking to become part of a small market town community.

Simon said: “We’ve enjoyed running our own business and our time in Shipston-on-Stour, but running our own business has run its course and it’s time to move on.

“We have had a good stint here and the property lends itself to a business such as ours with original flag stones in the main show area and French oak floorboards in the design area.

“We hope that the next owners enjoy living here and running their business as much as we did.”

The property includes an attractive shop front with a retail area of 493 sq ft, along with a five-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment which includes many of the original features.

The commercial space is situated over three floors and includes a large retail showroom, a display and design room, and inner show room and a utility space.

The property also boasts landscaped gardens to the rear, which have a charming almost cottage-like feel.

David Penn, a director of Shortland Horne, said: “This is a superb property and will be a great attraction to those who have always dreamt of opening a shop in a traditional market town.

“It fronts a main street in Shipston-on-Stour which has strong footfall.

“There is also an apartment above the shop premises so this really could be the chance for someone who is looking to make a life-changing decision and step out of city life and into a small town community.”

For more information on the property at 24 Church Street, Shipston-on-Stour, contact Shortland Horne on 024 7623 2970

ENDS

Media enquiries:
Katie Pearce
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

                                                                                                                          Sean Graham

                                                                                                                          ImpleMedia Communications

                                                                                                                          sgraham@implemedia-us.com

                                                                                                                          919.923.1905

Farmington Square Shopping Center Opens in Southeast Raleigh

City and community officials praise economic development project in southeast Raleigh

The Shopping Center is a development project owned by Farmington Square LLC and being developed by Isha Developments. The extended development team comprises of F7 International, Imperial Design Builders, East Carolina Contractors, York Properties, Design & Development, Innova-Concepts and Diehl and Philips. The project is financed by Crescent State Bank of Cary, NC and NC Community Development Initiative, which is a local funding agency.  Both Crescent State Bank and NC Community Development Initiative support economic revitalization and community development projects.

For more information, go to www.farmingtonsquare.us and www.theyancys.net.

The proposals, which go before the council in August, would see a 35,000sq ft, three-level office built at Eliot Business Park, by the Deeley Group.

Holland & Barrett is the leading retailer of vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements in the UK with over  o over550 stores, and already employs 125 people at its Attleborough Fields offices.

Around 125 existing staff would see their roles moved to the site while new jobs could be created.

The new headquarters, which could employ up to 250 staff would be finished in late 2010 if the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council planning authority approve the plans.

Peter Aldis, chief executive of Holland & Barrett, said:[0] “We are delighted to be involved in the proposed Eliot Park development.

“This will secure Holland & Barrett’s long term future in Nuneaton and continue significant job creation in the area.”
 
The news has been welcomed by Nuneaton MP, Bill Olner, who believes the potential move would help further establish Nuneaton as a prime business location.

Olner said: “This is brilliant news for Nuneaton and a major endorsement of what our town can offer for large, national businesses.

“Holland & Barrett is the leading retailer of its type in the UK and a new headquarters at Eliot Business Park would create new jobs and give the business community a major boost.

“I have stressed before how important it is to continue investing in Eliot Business Park and this is a very exciting announcement, which I fully support.”

Eliot Business Park was begun in 2000 and its occupiers include the Department of Work and Pensions, Warwickshire County Council, along with smaller businesses.

Peter Deeley, managing director of Deeley Group, said: “We will be tailoring this site to the needs of Holland & Barrett and I believe this is extremely positive news for the area.

“Eliot Business Park continues to grow and to have an established high-street brand operating from there will further establish Nuneaton’s credentials as a prime location for business.

“We are confident that the planning authority and residents of the area will be as excited as we are by the proposals.”

Ends

Picture:

Artist impression of the proposed Holland & Barrett headquarters

Dan Donovan
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

The Shopping Center is a development project owned by Farmington Square LLC and being developed by Isha Development. The extended development team comprises of F7 International, Imperial Design Builders, East Carolina Contractors, York Properties, Design & Development, Innova-Concepts and Diehl and Philips. The project is financed by Crescent State Bank of Cary, NC and NC Community Development Initiative, which is a local funding agency.  Both Crescent State Bank and NC Community Development Initiative support economic revitalization and community development projects.

For more information, go to www.farmintonsquare.us and www.theyancys.net, or contact Jawahar Muniyandi at 919.342.0480 or jawa@ishahomes.net.

Jawahar Muniyandi, CEO

Farmington Square

C/O Isha Development

341 Kilmayne Dr.

Suite 104

Cary NC 27511

jawa@ishahomes.net

919.342.0480

www.ishahomes.net

People in Bermuda will be asked about proposals by Deeley Group to build a new village centre, sports area and homes.

A four-page brochure with details of the plans has been hand-delivered to the 3,000 homes within the area, with Deeley asking for feedback and ideas before it considers submitting planning applications.

The document proposes moving the social club and sports facilities to another area of the village.

Shops, a doctor’s surgery and an elderly care facility could also be built near to the new social club, on land which is currently undeveloped.

Eliot Business Park will receive further investment to attract new businesses to the area, while new homes are earmarked for land freed-up by the move of the social club and football pitch.

Peter Deeley, managing director of the Deeley Group, said: “We have been heavily involved with this area for four decades now and we believe the principles of the proposals are sound and would be hugely beneficial for everyone.

“First and foremost, we want to see what the residents think and use their ideas to shape the way their neighbourhood will develop.

“We are in the early stages so there are no planning applications just yet. We want to see what local people think before that happens.

“We’ve always had a good relationship with the people living in the Bermuda area and we hope they will communicate with us and help shape this vision, which we believe will massively improve the area.”

Bermuda Village was built quickly in 1892 and during the early 1970s it was suggested that the area was demolished and completely redeveloped.

The Deeley Group then invested in the area and has developed its infrastructure, homes and business park since then, creating more than 3,000 local jobs and providing homes for around 2,000 people.

The plans have been welcomed by Nuneaton MP Bill Olner, who said the changes would help not just Bermuda, but the whole of Nuneaton.

Bill said: “These changes would have significant benefits to the local people, with provisions for a doctor’s surgery, new shops and a community centre.

“The social club – which is part of the community’s heartbeat – will also be new and improved, and that is very important.

“The continued development of Eliot Business Park is also encouraging because it will result in many new jobs for people across the town and help improve this area’s reputation as a place to do business.”
 
Local residents can send their views on the proposals to Deeley Group by writing to Vision for Bermuda, Deeley Group, George House, Herald Avenue, Coventry, CV5 6UB, by emailing bermuda@deeley.co.uk, or by calling an answer phone service on 024 7671 8720.

Ends

Media enquiries:
Dan Donovan
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Just four homes remain at Ian Neale’s Maple Corner scheme off Upton Drive including a range of two-bedroom properties up to a three-bedroom semi-detached home.

They are on the market with new homes specialist Shortland Horne and feature a ‘moving in’ incentive – including carpets, a furniture package and 32” HD ready TV for all those that complete before the end of August.

Prices start at just £124,995 and buyers are also being offered £500 towards their legal fees in order to assist with their move.

Laura Shortland, a director of Shortland Horne, said: “Maple Corner is proving to be extremely popular – in fact the new homes market in Nuneaton has held up extremely well.

“We now have just four properties remaining at the development and we believe this package makes the prospect of moving in here even more attractive.

“First-time buyers have the pick of three excellent two-bedroom homes and to be able to move in with carpets, furniture – and even an HD TV – will make life so much easier.

“But I would urge people to act fast because this is a very attractive offer. One of the two-bedroom homes also features a garage, which is quite unusual for this type of property.”

There is also a semi-detached, family three-bedroom home, which features a good-sized living room and kitchen/diner and a cloakroom on the ground floor.

On the first floor, there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom with the master bedroom benefiting from an en-suite shower room.

It has gardens at the front and rear with two car parking spaces. It is priced at £139,995.

Laura added: “This is a great family home and the furniture package applies on the three-bedroom properties too – making it easier for everyone to move into a new home.”

For more information on Maple Corner contact Shortland Horne on 024 7622 0444.

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry   CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

All properties at Deeley Homes’ converted Wainbody House proved to be very popular when the development first went on the market.

But now a three-bedroom luxury duplex apartment is available on the popular site located in the sought-after area of Coventry off Kenilworth Road in Gibbet Hill.

The first-floor apartment was previously rented and is now back on the market for £375,000 and expected to be just as popular as it was when the gated development first sold out.

Lisa Bennett, of Deeley Homes, said: “This is an opportunity for buyers to own a superb home in what is a highly sought-after area.

“The fact it sold out so quickly the first time round proves that these properties are very desirable, and to be able to have one last chance to own one is great news for buyers.”

Apartment five at the development boasts spacious open-plan living space with a generously-sized fitted kitchen, which includes a range of Siemens appliances and granite work tops.

The property also benefits from a luxury en-suite bathroom to each of the three double bedrooms, off road parking, and remote controlled security gated access.

Lisa added: “The apartment is a combination of luxurious and contemporary living situated in the leafy suburbs with easy access to the city which is sure to catch the eye of potential buyers.”

Wainbody House was converted into seven luxurious apartments and one stylish townhouse, and is set within communal tranquil grounds with a communal lawn area and trees.

For more information contact the Loveitts Coventry office on 024 7625 8421.

ENDS

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

The developer Earlplace has completed a land swap with Bristol City Council over a site off Kellaway Avenue, Horfield -exchanging land at the rear of the site for land at the front.

As part of the deal, Earlplace will develop a new independent care home for older people on the front of the site - and build a new Concord Lodge for Bristol City Council on the rear of the site, offering state-of-the-art assessment and residential facilities for people with complex learning difficulties.

The new purpose-built Concord Lodge will provide more personalised services and be designed to enable residents to live more independently. The existing Concord Lodge building will be demolished when the new unit opens early in 2010.

At the front of the site, the 76-room independent care home will be the first of a new breed. A third of the rooms will be for dementia residents, a third will be nursing rooms and a third will be care suites with sitting rooms.

All three types of rooms will have full en-suite facilities and the home will include gardens, terraces, a hair salon, coffee lounge and a shop.

The developer has agreed and signed a deal with a leading independent care home provider who would create around 60 jobs to run the centre.

Tim Malby, managing director of Earlplace - based near Solihull -said the project was bucking the trend in the property industry.

“There are very few major projects coming through at the moment because of the economic conditions, but this is a glorious exception,” he said.

“We have secured multi-million pound funding through Barclays, have completed a deal with Bristol City Council to create a new centre for them and have signed a long lease with an operator, one of the country’s leading care providers.

“That is good news for every party involved and also for the city of Bristol. Not only will it provide state-of-the-art medical and care services, but will give a boost to the local economy as work is on going.”

Councillor Bev Knott, Cabinet Member for Care and Neighbourhoods at Bristol City Council, said: “This is really good news for the people who use Concord Lodge and for Bristol as a whole. The new Concord Lodge will provide a safe environment for people with complex learning difficulties, giving them the support they need to develop their skills and prepare for a more independent and rewarding life.

“Thanks to the partnership between the city council and Earlplace, the new facility will cost the local tax payers nothing and the development will transform a site which has been an ugly eyesore for years into a well designed and well used local resource.”

Yeovil-based construction firm DR Jones is undertaking the building work.

ENDS

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Clarence Gate, which features 12 two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments overlooking parkland, is on the market with new homes specialists Shortland Horne.

A show home has just been unveiled at the new scheme by Hayward Developments and it is already attracting significant interest from buyers looking to be inspired on how their new home could be.

Prices at Clarence Gate begin at £149,950 and Laura Shortland, of Shortland Horne, said the quality of the development and the attraction of Earlsdon were making it popular with potential buyers.

She said: “Hayward Developments have produced an outstanding development here at Clarence Gate, creating just a dozen new apartments that are of a very high quality.

“Everybody who has viewed the homes here has been extremely impressed and with the unveiling of the new show apartment that will only further highlight the standard of the properties here.

“Four apartments are now occupied with a further sale currently going through, alongside renewed interest generated by revised prices on the remaining apartments.

“Earlsdon is one of the most popular areas of the city because it benefits from, among other things, a fabulous high street with shops, bars, pubs and restaurants.

“It’s also within walking distance of the city centre and the railway station, which is a further attraction to buyers.”

Each apartment comes complete with a fitted kitchen – with built-in fridge freezer, washer dryer, cooker, hob and extractor fan – and luxury family bathrooms and en-suites.

Each home also benefits from an NHBC ten-year guarantee.

The new showhome can be viewed by appointment with Shortland Horne. For more information contact Shortland Horne on 024 7622 0444.

Media enquiries:
Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Aerocom Metals Limited has just completed a successful first year of trading, and has moved into Unit 3 of the Blackhorse Road Industrial Estate in the Exhall area of Coventry.

Materials stocked by Aerocom are regularly used to produce the landing gear on military planes such as fighter jets, the bearings for Formula 1 race cars, while its titanium tubing has even been used during the launch of a space satellite.

Paul Smith, joint-director of Aerocom Metals - which has moved to the city from Daventry - said: “We specialise in supplying materials that are not readily available and our products end up being part of some really exciting projects.

“Our new home is a perfect size unit for us - is economically and logistically just what we required and is in a great location.

“We enjoyed a good first year in business, and with the aerospace market performing well at the moment hopefully this year will be even better.”

The 4,722 sq ft modern unit includes two storey offices, a self-contained secure yard and a kitchen area, and has been let by commercial property specialists Shortland Horne on behalf of owners Ashtenne Industrial Fund Limited Partnership.

David Penn, of Shortland Horne, said: “Aerocom Metals is in a great position to generate new business at its new location.

“This area of Coventry continues to be one of the busiest industrial hubs in the region, and there was a lot of interest in the unit due to the outstanding business location of the estate - just a quarter of a mile from Junction 3 of the M6 and the UK road network.”

END

Media enquiries:
Pete Squires
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Coundon House Gardens, which is off Southbank Road in Coundon, is a development of new apartments by O’Flanagan Homes each of which has been finished to a very high standard.

Just a couple of two-bedroom apartments remain at the attractive, gated scheme through new homes specialists Shortland Horne.

A two-bedroom, ground floor plot is on the market at £154,950 while a second-floor apartment – which features a balcony – is available at £159,950.

Laura Shortland, a director of Shortland Horne, said the development had attracted a good blend of purchasers.

She said: “We have seen first-time buyers who have saved for a deposit move in here and we have also attracted people who are down-sizing too.

“Some couples whose children have flown the nest have decided to move out of their family home and into our superb apartments here.

“It means they have been able to free up some cash for holidays and other activities but still have plenty of space and a very desirable home.

“But buyers who want to follow suit will not have long because we are down to the final two apartments here because this has proved to be extremely popular with purchasers.

“For those who buy now, there is a chance they could be in their new apartment and enjoying barbecues on their balcony or patio this summer!”

Each property comes complete with a fitted kitchen and fitted family and en-suite bathrooms.

For more information on Coundon House Gardens contact Shortland Horne on 024 7622 0444.

Media enquiries:

Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

Clive Benfield, the chairman of the KB Benfield Group – which includes a homebuilding arm, believes there is strong evidence to suggest that the recovery is close.

But Benfield, whose company has new developments in Rugby and Leicestershire, believes the only thing holding back an upturn is purchasers’ inability to buy without a large deposit.

“Interest in our sites is rising all the time,” he said. “And we have seen figures from the RICS and Government statistics to show that the fall in prices is slowing and that interest is growing.

“Enquiries are up and if demand was anything to go by we would have sold both our current schemes out by now.

“But purchasers – particularly first time buyers – are finding that while banks are lending a bit more than they were six months ago, interest rates are not competitive unless you have a 30 or 40 per cent deposit.

“Once that comes down to nearer five or ten per cent, it will be the final piece of the jigsaw and the market will recover in earnest.

“My advice to buyers right now would be not to be put off by the interest rates and come and talk to homebuilders like Benfield Homes.

“While we can do nothing about the banks, we can work with potential buyers and hopefully find a way round the problem and get them into their new home as soon as possible.

“The reason I say that is house prices will begin to move upwards later this year and the time to get a bargain really is running out.

“I have said many times before that there is a shortfall in new homes and because of this limited stock, it will put inflationary pressures on new properties.”

There are just four three-bedroom townhouses remaining for sale at Benfield Homes’ Satchels Court development in Rugby.

The development is situated on the Dunchurch Road in a conservation area, opposite Rugby School. It has proved extremely popular with downsizers as Benfield Homes assist in the sale of the purchaser’s previous home.

Benfield added: “As a homebuilder, we have to be ready to do everything we can to help buyers in the present market.”

Media enquiries:

Lee Corden
Advent Communications
2 Edison Building
Electric Wharf
Sandy Lane
Coventry  CV1 4JA
Tel: 024 7663 3636
http://www.advent-communications.co.uk

The Saccardo nozzles replace obsolete jet fans within the 470 metre long tunnels and will inject high volumes of air to disperse harmful gasses and provide smoke control if there is a fire.  This is the third Saccardo project for the company who supplied similar equipment to the Thames Tunnels on the High Speed One rail link and to the Holmesdale tunnels on the M25.  The Holmesdale contract, also led by Costain, on behalf of the Highways Agency was delivered on budget and three months ahead of schedule.

Work began at Bell Common in October and is scheduled to be complete by March 2010.  The Costain contract covers all electro mechanical systems, power, lighting, emergency communication, traffic signalling and signage in addition to the ventilation upgrade.  With 120,000 vehicles per day passing through the tunnels, considerable delays could arise from poor lighting, failed communication or lane closures for unscheduled maintenance. 

The Saccardo nozzles comprise a wedge shaped chamber terminating in a thin slot in the tunnel roof.  Air is rammed into this chamber by high powered fans.  As the air emerges at high velocity into the tunnel it entrains further air from the tunnel entrance.  This creates a positive air flow that follows the normal traffic stream. 

Under normal conditions traffic flow through the tunnels will be sufficient to ensure adequate ventilation.  However, should traffic through the tunnels be slow or static, the system will operate at reduced capacity to inject fresh air and ensure that there is sufficient airflow to dissipate fumes and carbon monoxide. 

If there is an emergency, such as a fire in the tunnel, drivers ahead of the incident can drive out of danger.  Drivers and passengers in traffic backed-up behind the incident will be protected by the injection of high air volumes to drive smoke away from them to allow for their safe evacuation. 

Detailed design of the environmental and emergency ventilation was by Capita Symonds.  Mouchel developed the outline design for the Saccardo ventilation and as the management contractor will be supervising the project on behalf of the Highways Agency.  The high capacity fans required have been supplied by Fläkt Woods. The site programme completion date is by Spring 2010.  To meet this stringent deadline, Hargreaves is prefabricating major elements of ductwork at their Bury factory so that these can be craned into position.

More Information
Phil Johnson, Senior Hargreaves, Tel. +44 (0)161 764 5082 Fax. +44 (0)161 762 2336
E-mail: pr@senior-hargreaves.co.uk Web: www.hargreaves-ductwork.co.uk
Senior Hargreaves, Lord Street, Bury, Lancashire BL9 0RG, UK

High/low resolution images are on the web at www.ainsmag.co.uk/ha166/4639ha1a_saccardo_nozzles.htm

 Take South Queensferry for example.  An historic waterfront town with its own unique character, South Queensferry is within easier reach of Edinburgh city centre than some of the capital’s own suburbs.  Excellent commuter links, enviable local amenities and attractive deals from local developers make this small town well worth a look.

 Places for People has introduced a hugely popular savings scheme which allows potential purchasers to rent any of the available homes at Echline Court for up to two years without further commitment. The full 100% of the first year’s rental then goes towards the deposit for the new home which means new owners have then had the benefit of a year’s rent free living.

 Matthew Benson, director of New Homes at Rettie & Co, selling agent says ''The financial logic behind Try before you Buy is clear and offers would-be buyers the opportunity to purchase a property at a highly competitive, locked in price regardless of how the market behaves in the future. 

 'Paying rent and having this same money applied towards the deposit for a mortgage is a huge investment return especially when savings rates are so poor. Rather than leaving money in the bank earning interest payments that are hardly worth counting after tax, the money you are paying to 'buy' the use of a house for a year is actually working twice, securing your future home at a locked in price and contributing to the deposit. As house prices bottom out this year and then begin to stabilise within the next 12 months, this has every potential to be a good one way bet.''

 The show homes are open to view from Thursday to Monday from 10am – 5.30pm.  Prices start at an affordable £157,500.

 Try before you Buy is also available at the developer’s other up and coming location hotspots at Wester Hailes and Restalrig. 

 Wester Hailes has benefited from major investment in regeneration since 1997 and now enjoys high levels of home ownership. Situated next to Wester Hailes train station, Harvesters Way is ideal for commuting to the city centre by rail. Drivers can be on the city bypass within minutes and there are also good bus services to the city centre and Edinburgh Park.

 First time buyers, families and commuters who missed out first time around now have a second chance to buy with the launch of Phase Two at Harvesters Way.  The strong demand for this development is a direct result of the combination of its location within the city boundaries, the quality of the homes and their affordability, offering for many the chance to live closer to work and feel part of a vibrant community.  Phase two offers 57 modern homes, a mix of one two and three bedroom apartments, three bedroom houses and four bedroom townhouses for sale.

 Finally, there is still a chance to beat the market and register interest now ahead of the long awaited release of 36 new homes for sale at St Triduana’s Rest in Edinburgh's thriving Restalrig community.  Named after a Pictish saint, whose shrine is at the local St Margaret’s Parish Church, this latest offering of one and two bedroom apartments from Places for People is launching later this month. 

 For details on all of these developments see www.placesforpeople.com/propertyshop  

/ends

COntact Maggie Wright Associates on +44 131 226 3622 maggie@mwa-scotland.com

VDD IQware, ontwikkelaar en leverancier van het Enterprise Content Managementsysteem Hyarchis.Net, verhuist per 1 mei van Waalre naar Eindhoven. Door de toenemende groei van VDD IQware en haar expansiestrategie heeft het bedrijf het besluit genomen om te verhuizen naar een groter pand. Met deze verhuizing zet VDD IQware ook de eerste stap naar de volledige invoering van het ‘nieuwe werken'.

"Onze nieuwe locatie is voorzien van alle moderne faciliteiten en biedt ruimte voor de verdere groei en ontwikkeling van VDD IQware, waardoor wij ook in de toekomst onze relaties optimaal kunnen blijven bedienen", aldus Andre van der Doelen, directeur van VDD IQware. "We hebben deze gelegenheid tevens benut om het ‘nieuwe werken' in te voeren. Ons eigen ECM-systeem Hyarchis.Net speelt hierbij een belangrijke rol, omdat in dit systeem e-mails, contracten, brieven en andere documenten eenvoudig tijd- en plaatsonafhankelijk kunnen worden geraadpleegd."

De nieuwe contactgegevens van VDD IQware per 1 mei zijn:
De Witbogt 26
5652 AG Eindhoven
Postbus 8662
5605 KR Eindhoven
088-0078500

--------------------
Over VDD IQware
VDD IQware, opgericht in 1985, is de ontwikkelaar en leverancier van het op de Microsoft.Net technologie ontwikkelde Enterprise Content Management systeem Hyarchis.Net. Hyarchis.Net zorgt voor de digitale opslag en verwerking van alle papieren- en digitale documenten. Met Hyarchis.Net en de ondersteunende diensten van VDD IQware kunnen organisaties de kwaliteit van hun bedrijfskritische processen optimaliseren en een hogere productiviteit per werknemer realiseren. VDD IQware is actief in de financiële dienstverlening, transport & logistiek-, overheid-, zorg & gezondheid- en projectgeoriënteerde sector. Hyarchis.Net wordt ook toegepast in de zakelijke dienstverlening en productie-industrie. Hyarchis.Net bestaat uit de bouwstenen: Document Management, Workflow Management, Invoice Processing, Document Composition, Records Management, Contract Management, Web Content Management en E-mail Management. Meer informatie: www.hyarchis.net.

Meer informatie:
Marcommit PR
Ingeborg Schrijver
035 - 5822730
vdd@marcommit.nl

Now the Chairman of 4Urban, Terry Bramall is a respected expert in his field, with more than 40 years' experience in the construction, house building and commercial properties - as well as 30 years' experience in commercial property from his time as a Director of Bramall & Ogden Ltd. He joined 4Urban after selling his share of Keepmoat, his family business, in 2007.

4Urban, which has an office on Victoria Avenue in Harrogate town centre, is led by a team of commercial and mixed-use property experts. Managing Director Paul Lancaster spent 20 years at Sheffield commercial property consultants Lane Walker, ten of which he served as Managing Director. "4Urban really stands out from other property developers because of our combined experiences and industry knowledge," he said.

This knowledge was obtained through years of practice in a variety of industry sectors. Development Director Richard Holmes is the former Director of Shop and Store Developments Ltd and served as a consultant for property developments and investments for 12 years. Director Paul Ayre, a Managing Partner at Gordons LLP, is a leading lawyer in the regional commercial property market. Directors Rebecca Bletcher and Tim Bletcher bring expertise in retail investment and the construction and house building sectors.

"With our strong understanding of the commercial property industry, we want to challenge traditional ideas with innovative thinking to build developments that improve communities," said Lancaster.

An example of this is 4Urban's latest project, a retail and residential development in Bingley town centre called 5Rise. Construction on the £5 million scheme began on schedule earlier this year and will be completed at the end of September - just in time for the busy Christmas shopping season.

4Urban has received strong support from Bradford Council and local business owners who recognise that 5Rise is an important part of Bingley's revitalisation.

"5Rise is helping to establish 4Urban as a developer that delivers on our promises," said Holmes. "It's a reputation we are proud of and one which will continue to grow as we complete 5Rise and move on to other innovative projects."

ENDS

Notes for editors:

1) For further editorial information or to arrange interviews, please contact Carly Colatch at HMA Digital Marketing on 01226 209450 or email carly@hma.co.uk

2) Additional information about 5Rise can be found at http://www.5rise.co.uk 

Meer informatie
Marcommit PR
Ellis Akkermans
035 582 27 30
kadenza@marcommit.nl

Laren, 28 juli 2008 - PISCES, het e-Standards orgaan, wat met meer dan 150 leden wereldwijd de standaard heeft gezet voor informatie uitwisseling in de vastgoedsector, heeft bekend gemaakt dat Kadenza, specialist op het gebied van Enterprise Intelligence, zich bij hen heeft aangesloten.

PISCES ontwikkelt en publiceert de open, elektronische OSCRE (Open Standards Consortium for Real Estate) standaarden voor de wereldwijde vastgoedmarkt. "Vanuit PISCES in Engeland bieden wij al standaarden aan in Noord en Zuid Amerika. Dit heeft de ontwikkeling van consistente rapportage succesvol bevorderd voor zowel de investeerders als de gebruikers van wereldwijd vastgoed", zegt Roger de Boehmler, Director General bij PISCES.

Roger de Boehmler vervolgt: "Met het toetreden van Kadenza starten wij een nieuw hoofdstuk in onze geschiedenis. Onze e-Standards worden nu voor het eerst ook toegepast op het vasteland van Europa. Dit zal er toe leiden dat de verschillende methoden voor het meten van de performance van vastgoedinvesteringen in Europa geharmoniseerd en beoordeeld kunnen worden op hun relatieve performance. PISCES zal dan ook op korte termijn starten met het organiseren van workshops op het vaste land van Europa om het gebruik van de e-Standards te bevorderen."

Kadenza werkt nauw samen met een grote groep institutionele vastgoedinvesteerders. Deze bedrijven willen graag dat er e-Standards voor de eigen, Europese markt ontwikkeld worden. Op korte termijn zullen veel Nederlandse vastgoedinvesteerders aansluiting zoeken bij PISCES om ervoor te zorgen dat de nationale e-Standards voor investeringsrapportages aansluiten op de wereldwijde OSCRE standaarden.

Erik Leene, Directeur van Kadenza: "Mede door de overname van Vastgoed Transparant vorig jaar hebben we voor wat betreft Enterprise Intelligence een sterke positie in de vastgoedmarkt opgebouwd. Door onze uitgebreide kennis en expertise van de markt zijn wij de aangewezen partij om de e-Standards voor de Nederlandse vastgoedmarkt samen met onze klanten te ontwikkelen."

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Over PISCES

PISCES is een non-profit organisatie die een wereldwijde open standaard ontwikkelt en onderhoudt voor aan vastgoed gerelateerde data-uitwisseling. PISCES is de vertegenwoordiger voor EMEA en de medeoprichter van OSCRE International (Open Standards Consortium for Real Estate), het enige wereldwijde instituut voor e-commerce standaarden voor de vastgoedsector. Meer informatie: www.pisces.co.uk

Over Kadenza

Kadenza is specialist op het gebied van Enterprise Intelligence. Historisch gezien is Kadenza Projecties sterk vertegenwoordigd in de sector waarin ook institutionele vastgoedbeleggers, woningcorporaties en taxateurs actief zijn. Zo bedient Kadenza meer dan de helft van de 30 grootste vastgoedinstellingen in Nederland, en heeft zij inmiddels bewezen de winstgevendheid van ondernemingen in deze branche aantoonbaar te vergroten. De multidisciplinaire aanpak van Kadenza slaat een brug tussen de financiële processen, kennis van de branche en (informatie) technologie. Hierdoor zijn we in staat om innovatieve oplossingen te brengen. De Business Consultants van Kadenza bieden concrete oplossingen voor haar opdrachtgevers (oa. Corio, Bouwfonds, BPF Bouwinvest, de Alliantie, Ymere ) zoals management systemen voor assets, funds, financiën, treasury, taxaties, planning & control. Kadenza is gevestigd in Laren (NH) en heeft 90 ervaren consultants in dienst. Meer informatie: www.kadenza.nl

Meer informatie:

Marcommit PR

Yvonne Fisscher

035 582 27 30

kadenza@marcommit.nl

Flex Power Grid Lab officieel van start

Bedrijfsleven n universiteiten kunnen inpassing van decentrale energieopwekking in het elektriciteitsnet nu beter testen en onderzoeken.

Arnhem, 9 april – Vandaag stellen mevrouw mr. R.M. Bergkamp, directeur-generaal Ondernemen & Innovatie van het ministerie van Economische zaken, en prof.ir. M. Antal, emeritus Hoogleraar Elektrotechniek en adviseur van hetzelfde ministerie, een wereldwijd uniek vermogenselektronicalaboratorium in werking. Het laboratorium biedt een ideale test- en onderzoeksomgeving voor geavanceerde vermogenselektronica. Deze vermogenselektronica is nodig om in de toekomst grote hoeveelheden decentraal opgewekte elektriciteit door bijvoorbeeld windmolens, (micro-)WKK's en zonnecellenconverters, aan het bestaande elektriciteitsnet te kunnen koppelen.

Klimaatverandering

Met de voortgaande groei van het aantal decentrale energieopwekkingseenheden – onder meer als gevolg van de zorg om het veranderende klimaat – en nieuwe ontwikkelingen zoals de HSL en smart grids ('intelligente elektriciteitsnetwerken'), speelt het Flex Power Grid Lab in op het aspect van energieveiligheid. Een onderwerp dat alleen maar hoger op de agenda zal komen. Het toekomstige elektriciteitsnet moet immers ingesteld zijn op de toename van elektriciteit uit deze decentrale eenheden.

Uniek popconcert

Wat het Flex Power Grid Lab uniek maakt, is de mogelijkheid om een flexibel middenspanningsnet te creren, dat bewust vervuild is. Indien twee vermogenselektronicacomponenten te dicht bij elkaar geplaatst zijn, kan instabiliteit in het elektriciteitsnet ontstaan, met elektriciteitsuitval als mogelijk gevolg. Het nieuwe laboratorium is in staat deze instabiliteit natuurgetrouw weer te geven. In het laboratorium kan apparatuur worden getest bij voortdurende industrile middenspanningen (tien keer hoger dan in andere laboratoria), waarbij de programmeerbare omvormer fungeert als een 1 MegaWatt versterker met een vermogen dat tien keer hoger is dan dat op het grootste popconcert.

Systemen van de toekomst

Tot nog toe is er veel aandacht geweest voor de ontwikkeling van de afzonderlijke technologien voor het opwekken van duurzame elektriciteit. Nog te weinig studie is verricht naar de vraag hoe die elektriciteit moet worden getransporteerd en eventueel opgeslagen. Met het Flex Power Grid Lab kunnen bedrijfsleven en universiteiten testen en onderzoeken hoe vermogenselektronica kan worden verbeterd om verstoringen in het elektriciteitsnet, onder andere door toevoeging van duurzame energie, te voorkomen. Juist dit gegeven stelt bedrijven en onderzoekers in de gelegenheid om de componenten voor het elektriciteitsnet van de toekomst te ontwikkelen.

Het laboratorium, dat voor de helft is gefinancierd door KEMA en voor de andere helft door het ministerie van Economische Zaken, is het resultaat van publiekprivate samenwerking tussen KEMA enerzijds, en ECN (mede name de technische universiteiten) en SenterNovem anderzijds. Het laboratorium is gevestigd bij KEMA in Arnhem.

Over KEMA

KEMA (www.kema.com) is gespecialiseerd in hoogwaardige dienstverlening op het gebied van business en technische consultancy, operationele ondersteuning, metingen en inspecties, en testen en certificeren. Klanten van KEMA zijn bedrijven in de energiesector, investeerders, overheden en de grote industrile elektriciteitsverbruikers. Tot zijn klanten telt KEMA bovendien leveranciers in de elektriciteitssector, producenten van elektrische onderdelen en eindproducten en handelsbedrijven zoals detail- en groothandelaren. Bij KEMA werken meer dan 1.500 professionals, verdeeld over 20 landen wereldwijd.

Over ECN

Het Energieonderzoek Centrum Nederland (ECN) is het grootste onderzoeksinstituut in Nederland op energiegebied. Het onderzoekscentrum voert onderzoek uit op het gebied van energie. Hierbij bewegen de onderzoekers zich in het overgangsgebied tussen het fundamentele onderzoek van universiteiten en de toepassing van kennis in de markt. Dit heeft een grote invloed op het leven van alledag. Zo bevinden zich bijvoorbeeld zonnecelsystemen op daken van huizen en staan moderne windmolens in het veld te draaien dankzij technologie die is ontwikkeld door ECN. Hiermee oefent het instituut een belangrijke functie uit voor de maatschappij van vandaag en morgen. Voor meer informatie: www.ecn.nl.

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+++ Mededeling voor de redactie (niet bestemd voor publicatie) +++

Dit is een gezamenlijk persbericht van KEMA en ECN. Voor meer informatie met betrekking tot dit persbericht kunt u contact opnemen met Rolf van Stenus, persvoorlichter van KEMA, (tel. +31 26 3 56 2607 of rolf.vanstenus@kema.com) of met Florentine de Maar, persvoorlichter van ECN (tel. +31 224-56 4050 of demaar@ecn.nl).

- PERSBERICHT –

Zoetermeer, 7 februari 2007

Badkamer Sale Nieuwegein geeft vanaf deze week aan alle klanten die minimaal 2.000 besteden een gratis vliegticket cadeau naar een Europese stad. Met deze voucher kan men een citytrip maken naar Barcelona, Veneti, Berlijn, Londen, Kopenhagen of Nice. Bij een besteding van 3.000 krijgt men zelfs 2 vliegtickets cadeau. Dit onder het motto "Kom naar Badkamer Sale en wij sturen u weg!". Deze actie loopt zolang de voorraad strekt. Voor meer informatie zie www.badkamersale.nl

"Dubbelleuk"

Iedereen die vanaf nu voor 2.000 bij Badkamer Sale aan de Ravenswade 2a besteedt, krijgt een gratis vliegticket. Bij besteding van 3.000 Euro krijgt men zelfs 2 vliegtickets cadeau. "Een nieuwe badkamer gaan kopen is natuurlijk al erg leuk om te doen", aldus Mark van der Snel, directeur Badkamer Sale. "Maar het is natuurlijk 'dubbelleuk' als u geniet van een citytrip naar Barcelona, terwijl thuis een start wordt gemaakt met de installatie van uw nieuwe badkamer!", aldus Mark.

Met de gratis retourtickets kunnen de klanten van Badkamer Sale een citytrip maken naar een van de volgende bruisende Europese steden naar keuze: Barcelona, Veneti, Berlijn, Londen, Kopenhagen of Nice. De actie loopt zolang de voorraad strekt. De tickets zijn geldig tot 31 juni 2007.

Over Badkamer Sale

Badkamer Sale heeft inmiddels 3 vestigingen, in Zoetermeer, Soesterberg en Nieuwegein. Bij Badkamer Sale worden enerzijds alle bekende A-merken sanitair & tegels, douchecabines, stoomcabines, kranen, baden, whirlpoolbaden en tegels verkocht. Daarnaast is er ook een compleet luxe Wellness Programma met sauna's, infraroodcabines, Sunrise Spa's en luxe whirlpoolbaden en stoomcabines van Balteco (topmerk uit Scandinavi). Voor meer informatie verwijzen wij u graag door naar de website: www.badkamersale.nl

- EINDE PERSBERICHT –

Noot voor de redactie (niet voor publicatie)

Voor meer informatie:

Badkamer Sale

Contactpersoon: Mark van der Snel

Tel: 06-25035709

Email: m.snel@badkamersale.nl

Smith PR

Contactpersoon: Leontine Smith

Tel: 06-20736010

Email: l.smith@smithpr.nl