Momentum Builds Across the East Midlands: Investment, Innovation and Collaboration
The East Midlands is experiencing a significant period of growth, with major developments across energy, infrastructure, skills and place‑making. This month’s progress reflects the region’s rising national and international profile, supported by strong public‑private collaboration and renewed political focus.
STEP Fusion at West Burton Marks a Major Milestone for UK Clean Energy
At West Burton in Nottinghamshire, the STEP Fusion programme has moved from research into delivery as part of the UK’s new Fusion Strategy. The appointment of the ILIOS consortium to lead a £200 million redevelopment marks a critical step toward creating thousands of skilled jobs, attracting global expertise and strengthening the UK’s long‑term energy security. This development positions the East Midlands at the forefront of future clean energy innovation.
Nottingham’s Cultural Success Shines at Tourism Awards
Nottingham’s place‑making partners celebrated a double win at the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards. It’s in Nottingham secured gold for Light Night, while the city—working alongside Nottingham City Council—received silver for its Christmas Market at Nottingham Castle. These accolades highlight the city’s strong cultural offer and ongoing commitment to creating vibrant visitor experiences.
Regional Leaders Call for Long‑Term Investment in Parliament
More than 30 MPs joined a Westminster Hall debate to call for sustained investment in the East Midlands. Priorities included Midland Mainline electrification, enhanced skills programmes, greater local devolution and stronger transport resilience. Leaders also stressed the importance of upgrades at Junction 24 of the M1 to unlock billions in future investment across logistics, clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
Lincolnshire, Leicester and the East Midlands on the Global Stage
In Greater Lincolnshire, Mayor Dame Andrea Jenkyns launched the new Mayoral Business Guild, offering SMEs, start-ups and rural enterprises a direct voice in shaping future investment and skills strategies.
Leicester also celebrated the opening of Canopy, a new creative industries hub transforming historic factory buildings into modern, collaborative workspace—strengthening the city’s growing cultural and digital sector.
On the global stage, Mayor Claire Ward promoted the East Midlands as a high‑growth investment region at MIPIM 2026, showcasing the area’s strategic assets and emerging economic clusters.
Nottingham Retains Purple Flag Status for 16th Consecutive Year
In a further boost to regional confidence, Nottingham once again achieved Purple Flag accreditation, recognising the city as a safe, welcoming and well‑managed evening destination. The award reflects strong partnership working between the city council, police, local organisations and universities.