The government has unveiled proposals to potentially extend pub and bar licensing hours for the semi-finals and final of the men’s European Football Championships next year. If England, Wales, or Scotland make it to the latter stages of the tournament, the government aims to stretch licensing hours in England and Wales from 11 pm to 1 am.This plan is contingent on a public consultation launched today, outlining measures for the Home Secretary to extend licensing hours in instances of “exceptional international, national, or local significance.”Home Secretary James Cleverly underscored the unifying power of international tournaments, expressing support for England and...

27 November, 2023

The Northamptonshire education community came together on Friday 10th November for the fifth annual Northamptonshire Education Awards, held at the County Ground, the home of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club.The prestigious ceremony was hosted by legendary broadcaster and TV personality Eamonn Holmes and offered an opportunity to celebrate the county’s education professionals and institutions, including schools, teachers, headteachers, administration and support staff, as well as special initiatives that have expanded the curriculum and provided invaluable experiences to the children and young people of Northamptonshire.The event, headline sponsored by education technology provider easipc, saw twelve awards given for specific subject teams, teachers...

27 November, 2023

In September this year, fragments of medieval shoes, textiles, pot fragments, dating back to the 13th-14th century, animal bones and wood, and the remnants of several structures were uncovered underneath Northampton Market Square. Since these discoveries the Museum of London Archaeology has been monitoring the historical finds that have been taking place on the site of the Market Square regeneration.On 26 October MOLA made an incredible and exciting discovery whilst proceeding with the groundworks for the surface renovation program of the Market Square. During the surface works an underground cellar was exposed at the site and with archaeological supervision of...

27 November, 2023

LEADING asbestos management consultancy Acorn Analytical Services Northampton was named West Northamptonshire Business of the Year at the prestigious Northamptonshire Business Awards.The company, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and has recently moved into new offices at Northampton’s Moulton Park, was presented with the award at the annual event, which celebrates the achievements of the county’s business community.It has been a remarkable year for the company, which gives businesses, charities and individuals the support they need to manage asbestos safely. It also campaigns for changes in the law around the management of asbestos which has been banned in...

27 November, 2023

Small businesses in the UK have faced significant challenges in recent years. Many are still recovering from the impact of the pandemic and are now grappling with the effects of rising inflation and a cost-of-living crisis. In these times, the support for small businesses is more crucial than ever.At NNBN, we advocate for more people to prioritise shopping at local small businesses rather than opting for larger multinational corporations. That's why we're backing Small Business Saturday, marking its 11-year anniversary with a tour across the UK from November, culminating on Saturday, 2nd December.Here are 10 compelling reasons to consider shopping...

26 November, 2023

Shopping local isn't just a transaction; it's an investment in the heart of communities, an endorsement of individuality, and a pledge to champion the backbone of the UK economy – small and micro-businesses. These ventures embody resilience, innovation, and a personalised touch that larger corporations often struggle to replicate.Within every corner of our communities, small businesses weave a rich tapestry of diversity. From quaint family-run shops to cosy cafes and unique boutiques, these enterprises go beyond offering products; they foster meaningful interactions and create a sense of community. Their unique offerings resonate with individual needs, turning transactions into connections.The impact...

26 November, 2023

Huge boost for UK green industries with £960 million government investment and major reform of power networkMajor plans to speed up connections and rapidly increase capacity on the electricity grid have been set out alongside £960 million investment in green industries – strengthening UK energy security and delivering long term savings for families and businesses.The package of measures will support economic growth and further cement the UK as one of the best countries in the world to invest in renewables, bringing forward investment by building network infrastructure faster and speeding up grid connections.Launched by the Chancellor and Energy Security Secretary,...

26 November, 2023

Industry leaders from across UK advanced manufacturing have welcomed the Government’s landmark Advanced Manufacturing Plan (AMP) backed by billions to boost Britain’s manufacturing sector, announced by Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch today (26 November).The package of measures will build on our existing strengths in manufacturing and offer certainty to business by building on our successful programmes and committing more than £4.5 billion to 2030 in targeted funding to back the long-term future of the UK’s world leading industries as well as supporting SMEs through extending and expanding our Made Smarter digital adoption programme through this decade.The Plan outlines key...

26 November, 2023

The dynamism of UK manufacturing receives an electric jolt with the launch of the game-changing Advanced Manufacturing Plan (AMP) by Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch. Boasting a robust injection of over £2 billion specifically earmarked for the automotive industry, including substantial allocations of £975 million for aerospace, this visionary plan sparks a new era of growth and innovation.The AMP sets its sights on building upon recent triumphs in investment, with substantial commitments from industry giants like Nissan, BMW, and Tata, showcasing an upsurge in confidence to establish cutting-edge gigafactories. Notably, this strategic plan forecasts a surge in job opportunities,...

26 November, 2023

In the pulsating realm of modern business, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a game-changer, offering a treasure trove of opportunities for small enterprises across the UK. While the initial contemplation might hint at complexity and costs, the advantages AI brings can catapult small businesses into a league of their own within today's competitive market.Primarily, AI serves as a mighty ally in efficiency, allowing small businesses to streamline operations by automating tedious tasks. The precious commodity of time is salvaged as AI takes the helm in data entry, customer support, inventory management, and even the realms of basic...

26 November, 2023

We're talking with Awards Winners this week!The second episode of the NNBN podcast is out!Listen to Simon talking with two great business women in the Northamptonshire business community.First up is Tara Holland from Dot & Stripe based in Mawsley talks about what it was like to be named the Micro Business of the Year at this year's NNBN Awards, her marketing business and how she helps businesses get seen and the "juggle struggle".You'll also be able to hear from Milly Fyfe from No Fuss Meals For Busy Parents CIC based in Yelvetoft talks about her experience of winning the Start...

25 November, 2023