Pioneering Leicestershire firm Abacus Flooring Solutions has announced its imminent move to bigger premises following an incredible year of continued growth. The resin flooring specialist will triple the size of its facility when it moves from its current site in Coalville to a new 3,000 sq ft industrial unit in Belton Road, Loughborough. Established only three-and-a-half years ago by husband-and-wife-team Nick and Amanda Megson, Abacus has also grown from nothing in 2020 to a £1m-plus turnover last year – with a current forecast that it will break the £2m barrier by the end of this year. The multi-award-winning company’s rapid success is largely the result of a ‘world-first’ innovation developed by Nick called Abaplas. Abaplas is a resin flooring system that uses 100 per cent recycled waste plastic as a bulking material instead of the traditionally used silica sand, which is damaging to human health and the environment. The firm’s expansion will trigger the launch of a new umbrella company, Abacus Materials Ltd, which will consolidate the trading and handling of all recycled plastics and resin flooring systems. Nick said the Loughborough move is initially expected to create up to five new jobs, adding to the eight full-time staff already employed by Abacus. He will also establish a new training centre to encourage a new generation of younger workers into the resin flooring industry. “If you’d told me three years ago that Abacus would grow to a £2m company operating from a 3,000 sq ft site, I simply wouldn’t have believed you,” said Nick. “I often have to pinch myself to convince me that this is not a dream." “But our order book has gone through roof and continues to grow. After winning multiple awards, mostly as a result of the Abaplas invention, we are now making great strides in the global market as well as the UK." “Business is certainly booming. People have quickly caught on to the fact that Abaplas is hugely sustainable; it cuts the carbon emissions produced by the heavy mining of silica sand as well as preventing vast quantities of waste plastic ending up in landfill or the world’s oceans.” Abacus Flooring Solutions racked up eight international and regional industry awards in 2023, adding to another eight awards picked up since it launched during lockdown. The Abacus count last year included a global bronze award at the Green World Awards in Miami, where the Coalville-based firm pipped 500 international nominees to the post. The team also won two prized FeRFA (the resin flooring association) awards, another brace at the Leicestershire Live Business Awards, best start-up firm in the East Midlands Business Masters Awards and both innovation and environmental impact plaudits at the East Midlands Chamber Business Awards. The first resin flooring installation using the Abaplas 100 per cent recycled plastic system was at JCB’s global headquarters in Staffordshire. The firm also recycled old plastic seats at Wembley Stadium in order to use within the stadium’s new Abaplas flooring in the royal box in addition to numerous other installations in healthcare, logistics, commercial and manufacturing sites. Nick, who is travelling to the US this month to discuss the expansion of Abaplas with US, Canadian and other British firms, said: “We’re the only company in the world doing this. It’s more important now than ever to protect our planet so I will not rest until I’ve shared our innovation with the rest of the world." “Our new training centre is also designed to ensure the next generation of flooring professionals puts the environment at the forefront of their priorities.”

The family founders of a multi-award-winning business have announced a significant restructure after two decades of helping customers to enjoy a better night’s sleep. Alan and Elizabeth Colleran became a Dragons’ Den success story with their patented Duvalay Memory Foam Sleeping Bag in 2011. National Bed Federation Award wins, major contracts and retail partnerships fuelled a decade of expansion and diversification, with sub-brands Summerby Sleep and Raskelf Contract Beds joining Duvalay in the portfolio. Following the recent acquisition of the UK’s foremost baby mattress manufacturer, Nursery Connections, Alan gave this insight into the decision to unite these various business interests under a single umbrella, Raskelf Group: “Twenty years ago, we incorporated our business after initial experiments with memory foam – conducted at our kitchen table – proved to be promising. We have since grown to become a global presence that actively exports products and secures distribution agreements worldwide – selling handmade mattresses in locations as far afield as Korea and China." "‘The Duvalay brand and our Dragons’ Den experience will always be a special part of our story. We are extremely proud to be associated with that name and grateful to everyone who has invested in a Duvalay product for home or leisure. Looking to the future, each of our brands will now have its own unique place under the Raskelf Group umbrella, with dedicated support to reach its full potential. That is what we believe our customers deserve, and how we will continue to grow and thrive with a focus on excellence.” This announcement marks a pivotal moment for the Raskelf Group, which capitalised upon its strong financial position to buy Nursery Connections out from administration last year. The strategic acquisition substantially broadened the spectrum of sleep products offered by the Group – ranging from sleeping bags, mattress toppers and bedding to mattresses for online retail, hospitality and children’s cots. In addition, the Group’s workforce has increased to 120 skilled craftspeople, who produce 10,000 sleep products each week across its sites in West Yorkshire and Northamptonshire. “All the hard work we have put in as a family over the years has been more than worth it,” added Sales & Marketing Director Elizabeth Colleran. “The Raskelf Group is the legacy we have created for our sons, their wives and our grandchildren." "Along the way, we have helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide to have a good night’s sleep across the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, as well as providing work opportunities for craftspeople in their home counties." "We are ready to embrace our new era as an umbrella group – and the future has never looked brighter.”

A 400 ft Anglesey landmark that has dominated the local skyline for more than 50 years is set to be razed to the ground. It is part of a contract that is valued at £410,000 for Nottingham based Total Reclaims Demolition and will be one of the largest chimney demolitions performed by the firm. The team has been tasked with the continued clearing of the former Anglesey Aluminium plant in Holyhead, North Wales. The 15-week contract was won by the firm following an open tender process and subsequent negotiation with East Midlands based company, Rock Civil Engineering. The specialist controlled explosion of the huge 400 ft (122 metre) tall concrete chimney in Holyhead follows a smaller chimney demolition performed by the firm in Derbyshire in 2020. Work began earlier this month on the demolition of around 200,000 sq. ft. of smelting and storage sheds. No exact date has yet been set for reducing the chimney at the former alumina processing plant to rubble. Ewan Cross, Project Manager, and the grandson of the founder of Total Reclaims Demolition, the late Melvyn Cross Snr, said: “We currently have two 50-tonne high-reach Volvos deployed at the site, supplemented by two 30-tonne Komatsus, which are the newest machines to our fleet.” He added: “The majority of the project is our bread-and-butter type of work. However, the blow-down of the chimney is the really exciting part. It’s not every day that something like this comes along." "In fact, the last chimney we blew was around three years ago and it was a quarter of the size of this, and that’s what makes it interesting for me. It’s the second explosive project I’ve been involved with since stepping up and following in my father and late grandfather's footsteps and I’m ready for it.” The former Anglesey Aluminium site closed down over a decade ago, with production ceasing in 2013. In 2016, the site was taken over by the Orthios Group, however, its recycling venture collapsed in 2022 with the loss of 140 jobs. The site, renamed Prosperity Parc, now has a new owner, Swedish shipping line company Stena Line, which purchased the land to expand its operation at the Freeport. The expansion has been hailed as a new start. According to local reports, Anglesey Freeport redevelopment is forecast to deliver up to 13,000 jobs across North Wales.

Family businesses offer several advantages that contribute to their resilience and long-term success. One significant benefit is the strong foundation of trust and loyalty within the family unit. This trust fosters effective communication and collaboration, enabling quicker decision-making processes. Family members often share a common vision and values, leading to a cohesive and unified approach to business operations. Another advantage lies in the commitment and dedication of family members. Unlike employees in non-family businesses, family members often have a personal stake in the success of the business, motivating them to go the extra mile. This intrinsic motivation can result in increased productivity and a sense of shared responsibility, as family members strive to uphold the family name and legacy. Family businesses also benefit from a long-term perspective. Since many are built with the intention of passing the enterprise down through generations, there is a focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term gains. This perspective often leads to prudent financial management, strategic planning, and a commitment to maintaining the business's reputation over time. Flexibility is another strength of family businesses. They can adapt quickly to changing market conditions due to their streamlined decision-making processes and the ability to implement changes without the bureaucratic hurdles often found in larger corporations. This adaptability allows family businesses to respond promptly to emerging trends, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer preferences. Furthermore, the personal relationships among family members can foster a supportive and collaborative work environment. Open communication channels, a deep understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses, and a shared commitment to the family's success contribute to a positive workplace culture. This familial atmosphere can enhance employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. In addition to these interpersonal benefits, family businesses often demonstrate a commitment to their local communities. Many family enterprises prioritise community engagement, supporting local initiatives, charities, and contributing to the overall well-being of the areas in which they operate. This community focus can lead to positive brand perception and customer loyalty. In conclusion, the advantages of family businesses encompass trust, commitment, a long-term perspective, adaptability, a supportive work environment, and community involvement. While challenges may arise, the unique strengths derived from the familial structure often contribute to the sustained success and resilience of these enterprises over generations.

The sky is the limit for a Staffordshire Moorlands arts group’s major exhibition plans thanks to a £2,000 donation from digger giant JCB. Outside is bringing internationally renowned touring art installation ‘Museum of the Moon’ to Cheadle’s St Giles the Abbot Church as part of celebrations to mark the life of pioneering astronomer Mary Adela Blagg. The giant suspended moon by artist Luke Jerram will form the centrepiece of the three-week ‘Cheadle Moon’ celebrations, from March 15 to April 5, marking the 80th anniversary of the death of the internationally acclaimed astronomer who lived her entire life in Cheadle and is buried in St Giles’ churchyard. Outside Creative Director Sarah Bird explained: “Museum of the Moon is just part of a wide-ranging programme of lunar inspired arts and cultural activities planned for the Cheadle Moon celebrations and this can only be made possible thanks to support from organisations like JCB." “For the three weeks Cheadle will be filled with stardust and moonlight with celebrations taking place in churches, schools, shops and streets. It will tell Mary Blagg’s inspirational story and celebrate her life. Born in 1858, her groundbreaking work mapping the moon saw her become one of the first women admitted into the Royal Astronomical Society. A crater on the moon, Blagg crater, was named after Mary, and in March 2023, a planet was named Maryblagg in her honour." “Museum of the Moon will rise in the nave of St Giles the Abbot and be a stunning centrepiece for the exhibition. Measuring six metres in diameter, the internally lit sculpture features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface and is complemented by surround sound musical compositions created by award winning composer Dan Jones.” JCB Earthmovers Operations Manager, John Godfrey visited the impressive church to meet exhibition organisers and hand over the £2,000 donation from the company. He said: “This exhibition celebrates one of the town’s most accomplished women and it is important that her achievements are celebrated and her story is told." "When Outside approached us for support, we were delighted to be able to help; JCB has two factories in Cheadle and as a major employer in the town we are always keen to support local community initiatives such as this.”

Willmott Dixon is building the £15.8m Telford Digital Skills & Enterprise Hub that will become a central hub for digital and business learning in the region as part of the Telford Station Quarter regeneration. They are working for Telford & Wrekin Council, in collaboration with educational partners Telford College and Harper Adams University, after being procured through the Pagabo framework. The five-storey hub’s purpose is to provide a combined education and business offering, with shared spaces and start-up offices, as well as become a new base for Telford College and Harper Adams University. When open for the new academic year in 2024, the hub will accommodate 200 Telford College students aged 16 to 18, while Harper Adams University will offer a range of degrees, including Applied Data Science, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics, Engineering Business Management, and Digital Manufacturing. It will serve as a bridge from education to employment by attracting and retaining young talent, upskilling residents of all ages, and aiding businesses in their growth journeys by providing support services and flexible enterprise incubator accommodation for new or young enterprises in the digital and related sectors to establish and expand in the town centre. Willmott Dixon has already completed the enabling works for the entire Station Quarter site, in line with the wider masterplan, prior to starting on the Telford Digital Skills & Enterprise Hub. For Telford College, Station Quarter is an opportunity to make its curriculum even more accessible to people across the borough, and to help local employers develop the sort of skilled workforce they require - providing local people with a vital pathway to higher quality and better paid careers. Dan Doyle, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “The Telford Digital Skills & Enterprise Hub brings enterprise, focusing particularly on start-up businesses, and education together – which is the perfect partnership as educating and training the next generation and bridging the skills gap is crucial for the future of so many sectors." “The wider site also marks a new chapter for Telford by creating a more accessible, cohesive, and vibrant town centre that supports the council’s carbon neutral by 2030 pledge. The Telford Digital Skills & Enterprise Hub contributes to this, including sustainable elements such as solar PV panels and no gas on site." “As with all our schemes, we aim to leave a positive lasting impact on the communities we work within. Throughout this project, we will be delivering a range of initiatives that focus on providing employment and educational opportunities to students in the area; something that is particularly topical given the nature of the building.” Station Quarter is a new residential-led, mixed-use regeneration project, which will deliver accessible and high-quality homes along with complementary education, hospitality and leisure uses to provide an active destination where people can live, learn, and relax. The project is being partly funded by a £200m investment of match-funding from the private sector, as well as £22.3m from the Government's Towns Fund.

An award-winning Leamington pizzeria is reopening its doors to diners with a unique new look more than three years after the pandemic forced it to pivot into takeaway food. We Love Pizza has unveiled the two-storey dining space above its take-out business, in Regents Place, in response to customer demand. It marks a new chapter for Jose, Geanina and their team whose restaurant plans were thwarted just two months after the launch, in September 2020. Now they hope to build on the subsequent success of the takeaway business by welcoming customers back in. Jose explained: “We are trying to take people on a multi-sensory journey, from the visual side through to music playlists and even scent. Every room has a different aroma, from woody to citrus." "The different themes allow regular customers to have a new experience each time they come. The rooms range from Italian and Neopolitan and Amalfi coast through to more Industrial Urban vibes. Even the toilets have an exotic theme.” He added: “The original plan when we set up the business was actually to be more focused on the eating-in service. When Covid hit we realised we needed to pivot and takeaway was a lifeline and, ultimately, a great opportunity." “When things started opening back up after the lockdowns we were ticking over nicely on takeaways and the business was sustainable but people were always asking for a table. It got us thinking again. We always wanted to welcome people in, that is what we think we do best – showcasing our product, showing our hospitality." “It was a great moment when we finally opened the doors again. We felt complete because we always thought that we were missing a piece of the puzzle here. " " Now we are delivering what we originally set out to, by welcoming people into our ‘house.’ We can invite people to come in full confidence that they will get an outstanding product at its very best.” The three vibrantly themed eating areas are the work of talented Leamington muralist Gemma Grao. Gemma commented: “We wanted to give each room its own personality, so that you each time you visit you have a different experience. From the traditional Italian lemon room, to the cool graffiti room and pizza oven, then to the tropical floral toilets…each room takes you on a different journey!" “We also wanted to tell a story on the walls, so to do this I created a timeline on the staircase to show the history of pizza making, and then one wall is painted with all of the traditional ingredients on, so you really get a feel for the history of pizza!" Jose and Geanina pride themselves on delivering ‘affordable quality’ to their customers by using only the best and most nutritious flour combinations and implementing exact temperature control and longer fermentation periods for the sourdough. Fresh ingredients are sourced directly from Italy – including tomatoes from the volcanic soils of Mount Versuvius - as well as locally. Keen to support local businesses as much as possible, they count among their drinks menu south Warwickshire brands Windmill Hill, BRUBL and Napton Cidery. Jose said: “It is the heart and science behind what we do that is the reason we’re passionate about it. Not only does it taste better, but is much healthier and much more digestible. We use less salt than most pizza restaurants and don't use to refined flour anymore.” The health and sustainability ethos is also evidenced in the restaurant’s partnership with the WaterAid charity. Sizeable monthly donations come from the sales of PH-regulated Kangen water which is both served at the table and used to make the dough. We Love Pizza’s vegan and gluten-free products have also become a favourite but it’s the unexpected cutlery item as part of the table setting which piques most interest. Jose explained: “We were inspired by one of the most recognised pizza chefs in Italy who uses scissors. Our product, especially our dough, is different from the mainstream pizza products – crispy on the outside and soft and airy on the inside, very light on the palette and thin in the middle. Scissors allow you to cut the pizza in a more efficient way without causing a mess and better showcasing the product. It’s much more practical but also a fun element. The customers love it." “We offer something that is more personal and different than the mainstream. It’s this character and not being afraid to be different that reflects the ethos behind what we do and that we’re most proud of.”

LandyCampers, a family-owned business specialising in unique Land Rover Defender camping adventures, proudly announces its position as a Finalist in the East Of England Tourism Awards, ‘Self Catering Accommodation of The Year’ category. This prestigious nomination distinguishes LandyCampers among the elite tourism services in the region, despite being a small-scale operation. Situated in North Essex, close to London, LandyCampers is renowned for its personalised service and commitment to sustainable travel. Co-founders Max and Bela emphasise a 'white-glove' approach, ensuring each guest experiences the best of British adventure in an eco-friendly manner. "Our recognition as finalists is not just about our unique camping experience," said Max. "It's a nod to our dedication to personalised, eco-conscious tourism. This honour encourages us to continue innovating and providing memorable adventures." Equipped with unique high-quality camping gear and rooftop tents, LandyCampers' Land Rover Defenders offer guests a unique blend of adventure and comfort. This attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in the numerous industry accolades LandyCampers received in 2023, setting a high standard in the self-catering accommodation sector. "As a family business, we're thrilled to represent the best of the East of England's tourism," said Bela. "This finalist status reflects our passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences and our vision for sustainable adventure." Judges praised LandyCampers 'fantastic product and service, and work towards sustainability' when naming them in the final three for the Award. LandyCampers continues to redefine outdoor travel - being the UK's only TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice winning adventure vehicle hire - offering personalised itineraries and a deep connection with nature, all while ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.

Clancy has appointed Tom McGinness as an independent non-executive director to the infrastructure specialist’s Board. Tom will support Clancy as it pursues its long-term strategy as an independent, family-owned business. He brings decades of experience, having served as a senior partner for KPMG for 26 years, leading the firm’s tax advisory services for privately and family-owned businesses. He also held the role of the firm’s Global Chair of Family Business for five years from 2018 and is now Global Leader of ESG for KPMG Private Enterprise. He has worked with clients across a range of sectors and international jurisdictions, including the Wates Group, the Bestway Group and McLaren Automotive Limited. As part of his non-executive role, Tom will work with the wider Board to ensure the highest standards of corporate governance and to support Clancy’s long-term strategic priorities. Tom joins the Board from January 2024. Kevin Clancy, chairman at Clancy, commented: “Tom’s wealth of experience in advising family businesses on ESG and business planning will be extremely valuable in further bolstering the skills and expertise of the Board as we continue to grow our business. Tom has worked closely with us over the past couple of years in his role at KPMG and his new role will be a great opportunity to build on this relationship." “Our country’s infrastructure faces significant challenges, from unpredictable rainfall, rising temperatures, a growing population and the need to decarbonise our networks while maintaining affordability for customers. Clancy is in a good position to support our clients in managing these headwinds, and the Board plays a vital role in ensuring the right investment and decisions are in place to allow us to work as trusted partners for the long term.” Tom McGinness, non-executive director at Clancy, said: “Over recent years, I’ve been able to get to know the Clancy business and its people through my work at KPMG and I’m delighted now to expand that role as a non-executive director." "Clancy is at an exciting point in its history, having transitioned smoothly and effectively to its third generation of leadership. The nature of a family business provides a unique opportunity to take a long-term view on strategy – planning not just a few years ahead, but decades – and I’m looking forward to playing a part in continuing that success.”

Embarking on the journey of planning for a successful year is a significant step for family businesses. With a purposeful mindset and a well-defined roadmap, your family business can navigate the challenges and set the course for greatness. Let’s delve into specific actions to ensure your family business thrives in the upcoming year. Reflecting On Your Goals Take a moment to pause and reflect on your aspirations for the year ahead. Consider your personal, family, and business goals. Document these goals to bring clarity and intention to your path forward. Recognise that the synergy between personal and professional aspirations forms the foundation of a thriving family business. Consider scheduling a dedicated reflection session to outline specific goals for the personal, family, and business dimensions. Your Vision Translate your dreams into a tangible vision for the year. Surround yourself with visual cues, such as images, quotes, and symbols, that inspire and reinforce your aspirations. This visual representation will serve as a constant reminder of the collective future you aim to build for your family business. Habits That Propel Success Identify key habits that can propel your family business towards success. Whether it’s fostering daily communication among family members or adopting a proactive mindset, recognise the power of habitual choices. Determine habits you want to increase or decrease in frequency to shape the trajectory of your family business. Sharing With Trust And Accountability Harness the power of connection by sharing your goals and aspirations with someone you trust implicitly. This could be a family member, mentor, or close friend. Creating a sense of accountability and support through shared plans allows for mutual encouragement, celebration of victories, and guidance during challenging times. Embracing The Power Of Dreams Dreams fuel our passion, ignite our creativity, and propel us towards greatness. As you embark on this year, always keep this passion alive. Embrace this and let it be the launchpad for new ideas, bold endeavors, and uncharted territories. The joy and pride that come with being part of a family business are rooted in the limitless possibilities you can create together. About the Author: John Broons is a globally awarded family business expert. One of only three people in Australia to hold the coveted title of Fellow of Family Firm Institute (Boston, USA), John has dedicated his working career to answering the question: how do I guide and support families in business to a place where they’re thriving? Find out more by visiting his website here

Perdue Farms has delivered two truckloads of nutritious no antibiotics ever chicken to help the Food Bank of Delaware fill the freezers at its new facility in Milford and help feed those struggling with food insecurity in the First State. The donation of 83,000 pounds of nutritious chicken represents the equivalent of more than 67,000 meals. Cathy Kanefsky, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Delaware commented: “This generous donation from long-time partner Perdue Farms represents hope for our Delaware neighbors struggling with food insecurity.” “At the food bank, our programs focus on how food can improve overall health and well-being for people facing food insecurity, and donations like this help provide access for those who often have few options for nutritious foods and healthy eating.” Perdue’s donation was delivered during the Food Bank of Delaware’s grand opening of its new 70,000-square-foot facility in Milford. The donation is part of the company’s Delivering Hope To Our Neighbors® outreach to improve quality of life and build strong communities. “We recognize food insecurity remains a serious problem across the country and we’re committed to fighting hunger in the communities we call home, including in Delaware,” said Kevin McAdams, CEO of Perdue Farms. “We’re proud to help the Food Bank of Delaware deliver a little hope to some of our most vulnerable neighbors and we aspire to create a community where no one goes to bed hungry.” Since 2000, Perdue Farms has donated more than 92 million pounds of protein — the equivalent of more than 77 million meals — to the Feeding America network of affiliated food banks of which the Food Bank of Delaware is a valued partner. Perdue was one of the first meat companies to implement a formal program of ongoing donations of perishable protein products, creating a model for other companies to follow.

VIVO Defence Services and its tier one supply chain partner Henry Brothers Construction have broken ground on a £6m scheme to house an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Troop at Gamecock Barracks near Nuneaton. The troop is relocating from Chetwynd Barracks, Nottingham, to Gamecock Barracks, in Warwickshire, under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme. Henry Brothers has been selected by client VIVO Defence Services to deliver the new building for the troop. It will feature space for offices, garages and stores, and will be built at the Southern edge of the base. Joined by representatives from the DEO Army Programme, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Gamecock Barracks and construction partners William Gough, VIVO and Midlands-based Henry Brothers Construction have now broken ground on the scheme. Warren Webster, Programme Director for DIO Major Projects (Army) said: “This is another demonstration of our commitment to increase the pace, quality and volume of Defence infrastructure delivery, by doing things differently." “We are working closely with our colleagues in DIO Regional Delivery and their long-term partner VIVO and its suppliers, to build this important capability. Collaboration remains at the heart of our delivery intent, and when completed, Gamecock Barracks will provide first class Explosive Ordnance Disposal facilities for the central region.” Managing director of Henry Brothers Construction, Ian Taylor, said: “Henry Brothers is very pleased to be continuing the successful relationship with VIVO Defence, which follows delivery of a new dye pod facility recently at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire." “This development at Gamecock Barracks will rehome an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Troop – giving them modern, purpose-built, secure facilities as part of the MOD’s investment into the armed forces." “Henry Brothers has significant experience of working within MOD sites across the UK, helping to improve and upgrade key military resources, and we are delighted to have now broken ground and started work on this latest development.” Jerry Moloney, Managing Director of VIVO Defence Services, added: “It is great news that work is now underway to build this important new facility at Gamecock Barracks." “We look forward to delivering it with our supply chain partners to the troop and are proud to work so closely with the UK military on developing new important infrastructure for them.” Belinda Lunn, Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme Director said: “I am delighted to see this significant project get off the ground, expanding our ongoing programme of investment and construction across the UK, to benefit Army personnel and support military capability." “I look forward to working with all partners involved in this project and to seeing the new infrastructure at Gamecock Barracks take shape over coming months.” The scheme for EOD Troop at Gamecock Barracks is due to be completed by the end of the year.