NEW BOOM IN RUSTIC RETAIL AS FARM SHOPS TAKE OFF

Scotland’s farmers are cashing in on a new billion pound boom in rustic retail by opening farm shops at the fastest rate ever.

Growing demand for high quality food located at source, together with recent public fears over food safety have made the public more conscious about food quality and Scotland’s farmers are well poised to make generous returns.

Scotland’s largest firm of accountants, Johnston Carmichael, has a dedicated team of agriculture advisers, helping farmers on the financial responsibilities of a retail operation.

Business expansion also raises a number of questions and problems as farmers encounter new areas of VAT and other associated tax complications.

Neil Steven, Head of Agriculture for the South of Scotland at Johnston Carmichael, commented;

“Farmers are recognising the additional revenue available from retail and with rising consumer demand for fresh produce bought at source; some cases are proving to be very lucrative.

“Their cost bases are low, and in many cases can charge a reasonable amount for produce rather than being driven down by mass retailers looking for volume product.”

According to FARMA, farm shops are opening at a faster rate than ever and across the UK there are over 4,000 farm shops with an estimated annual turnover of £1.5bn. Neil Steven continues;

“Despite the recession, farm shops continue to do well and can therefore not be over looked by farmers as an option to grow or supplement the existing farming business. On speaking with one owner, the shop has helped grow the business turnover significantly and the shop can now account for in excess of 50% of the annual turnover.”

Despite the increase in demand for business advice from farmers, the value of farm shops to the Scottish economy is yet to be fully understood.

David Lamb, of SAC Consulting, commented that there is no one organisation is compiling this data but indications are that farm shops are increasing in number.

“Our last survey completed in 2008 stated that the value of Scottish local food is worth £500million to the economy and this will be even higher today. This includes farmers markets, farm shops and retail.

“However, there is a lack of understanding about the exact number of farm shops in Scotland so we’re pleased to be starting a survey in the summer, working with the Scottish Government, to assess the size and scale of this area.

“Meanwhile, we know from dealing with food and drink suppliers in the agriculture market that this is an increasingly popular part of business, particularly in Scotland where the quality of produce can be first class.”

Rob Pollock from Ardross Farm Shop located near Elie in Fife, commented;

“Opening up a shop has made a phenomenal difference to our business. We did require some investment up front, but we have already generated significant footfall both from locals and the tourist market, which is an important part of our market in Elie.

“We were originally a dairy farm and then changed to beef production which supplemented our arable crops. We produce a full range of crops over 1,000 acres including our own vegetables, potatoes, broccoli, parsnips, carrots, courgettes to name a few along with beef direct to the shop. Our shop sales now account for over 50% of our overall revenue.”

Johnston Carmichael is Scotland’s largest firm of chartered accountants and business advisers with over 11,000 clients and 420 staff in 10 offices in Scotland and act for over 1,500 farming clients.

THE EXPERT VIEW

Neil Steven, Johnston Carmichael.

There is no overall magic wand to when it comes to developing farm shops; it can’t be done quickly, but the financial incentives are appealing. Grant funding can be sought through the Scottish Rural Development Programme. This can assist by securing investment to renovate a suitable steading or building a new shop. At the same time, tax relief can be obtained through capital allowances for qualifying expenditure. You will need to keep detailed records to maximise any claim. Up front tax planning is also needed to ensure that the business structure is appropriate to accommodate this new revenue stream and minimise any additional tax exposure. There is no one solution as the objectives of each business and owner will be different.

Finally, as mentioned the new farm shop owner must consider the nation’s favourite subject, VAT. With most other farming supplies qualifying for zero rate VAT the farm shop introduces a new world of mixed VAT rates and mixed supplies. However, discussing product lines and getting the VAT rate right from the start and possibly investing in new software may ensure no loss of profits through interest and penalty charges for getting it wrong.

TURNBERRY TRAINEE BEATS TOP CHEF TO NATIONAL TITLE

A young commis chef, trained and working in Scotland, has been chosen by a panel of judges led by Heston Blumenthal as the Young Chef of the Year at the Academy of Culinary Arts (ACA) Annual Awards of Excellence 2011 held in London.

Dimitar Angelkovski, a trainee chef at the world famous Turnberry Resort, fought off competition from some of the most admired chefs in the business from restaurants such as Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison, The London Ritz and Claridges.

The ten kitchen finalists also included Turnberry Sous Chef Ryan Murphy, and a senior chef from the Royal Household of Buckingham Palace.

Justin Galea, Head Chef at Turnberry, commented;

“We’ve always known that Dimitar and Ryan are incredibly talented guys and we’re delighted for them both to get this far. For Dimitar, this is a spectacular win against the toughest competition he will ever have seen. Dimitar has great composure in his cooking, clear technical ability and a deep passion for what he does. We’re very proud to have him part of our team at Turnberry.”

The presentation made by Blumenthal, Chairman of the ACA, followed an intense period of cooking held earlier in the year. Chefs had 4.5 hours to prepare a razor clam starter using mystery ingredients followed by venison Wellington with fondant potatoes; glazed carrots; stuffed cabbage; celeriac puree and a red wine jus and a modern interpretation of a lemon meringue dessert.

Dimitar was honoured as Best Young Chef of the year, at a gala presentation at London’s Claridges, as the candidate achieving the highest marks of all the finalists who gathered from across the UK.

The news is a further boost in the growing recognition of the quality of food at the Turnberry restaurant 1906, particularly under the stewardship of Head Chef, Justin Galea. The kitchen has recently relaunched its chef’s table, a private dining space overlooking the pass which is personally hosted by the Turnberry chefs for regular groups of diners.

The Annual Awards of Excellence 2011 are judged by a panel of industry experts including John Williams MBE, Executive chef of The Ritz and Martyn Nail, Executive Chef of Claridges. The event is sponsored by the National Skills Academy for Hospitality, City & Guilds, the Savoy Educational Trust, John Lewis, Maldon Salt, G.H.Mumm Champagne, Gressingham Foods, Allens of Mayfair and the Caterer & Hotelkeeper.

Also presented at Claridges were awards for Young Pastry Chef of the Year and Young Waiter of the Year.

TURNBERRY GOES TECH MAD FOR IPAD

Turnberry Resort has become the first in Scotland to launch iPad menus in its bars and restaurants as growing evidence suggests that the technology boosts sales and improves the customer experience.

The increasing popularity for iPad menus in the USA was recently picked up in London by Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Restaurant. Scotland will experience the latest technique in ordering a round for the first time this weekend.

Turnberry has invested in ten iPads which from today (Friday) will give guests a colourful and highly informed choice of wines, whiskies, beers and cocktails on offer in any of the resorts three bar areas.

Ralph Porciani, Director of Operations at Turnberry, commented;

“We’ve seen this in the States for a while and it absolutely improves and enriches the experience of choosing from a menu. The ability to combine images, with more colourful information on background to the product, be it the wine maker or the grapes, is incredibly satisfying for guests and gives them a far more informed choice than the traditional paper menu could offer.

“As with all of these things, we’re happy to trial it and should it be successful we would consider moving it into the restaurant areas too. Personally, I believe that once this approach is available we will see growing popularity from customers and other endorsements from top end establishments in Scotland and throughout the UK.”

The news follows Turnberry’s recent launch of a range of famous golfer’s wines which will also feature on the new iPad menus. These include the personal selection from players such as John Daly, Retief Goosen and Arnold Palmer.

· Firm reports 4% growth to £27.9m in year ending May 2011
· Implements new LLP status as of this month

Scotland’s largest accountancy firm has overcome another tough year of business in financial results revealed today for the year ending 31 May 2011.

Johnston Carmichael, celebrating its 75th year of business in 2011, has posted 4% growth in revenues up from £26.9m to £27.9m.

The results makes the firm one of the largest professional advisory firms in Scotland with over 420 staff, 11,000 clients and places the firm in the Top 25 accountancy firms in the UK.

Sandy Manson, Chief Executive of Johnston Carmichael, commented;

“At a time when many professional firms are finding it difficult to experience any sort of improvement, our business has shown considerable robustness in achieving respectable growth in tough economic conditions.”

“We’ve gained a number of great clients and have also seen an increase in the level of tax planning and advisory work. While the level of transaction work remained subdued across the country, we believe the market will recover and have invested in that area accordingly.

“We also saw strong growth in the level of work in the renewable sector where we have developed a strong and experienced team. “

“Our clients tell us that they need our help to strengthen and develop their businesses to help them compete. So we’ll continue to grow and develop our business to meet the considerable opportunities which we see for supporting our clients in the period ahead.”

Johnston Carmichael has also seen good returns from the ongoing investment in the Glasgow and Edinburgh offices. Manson continued;

“Edinburgh and Glasgow posted a combined growth of 5% in the year and now account for a third of the national practice. However, we still see significant growth potential in both the central belt and across our other markets in Scotland. We have also made a number of important promotions and hires to assist us with our growth plans.”

“Our corporate finance team is now amongst the largest in Scotland available with the recruitment of Andrew Ewing and James Thompson in Edinburgh and Jamie Ritchie in Aberdeen. In Glasgow we have almost doubled the size of our practice in the last two years.

“We will continue to invest in the bench strength of our people at all levels as this is the key factor which will enable us to deliver our vision of being the accounting and business advisory firm of choice in our markets.”

The firm has also converted to a Limited Liability Partnership on 1 June 2011 in recognition of scale and size of the firm today.

“We have to ensure that our legal structure is appropriate for the scale and size of the firm today and the new LLP status allows us to do that.

“Most importantly, we are really encouraged by the firm’s continued progress in the last year. The ongoing uncertainties and issues in the wider economy will not dampen our enthusiasm or excitement about the prospects for our business across all our service lines and markets”.

In 1935 William Johnston started up his own Chartered Accountancy practice in Nairn and was joined in partnership by John Carmichael in 1936, creating the firm Johnston Carmichael. By the 1970’s the firm had an established foothold in the North East. The 1980’s and 1990’s were a time of rapid expansion for the firm with the acquisition of offices in Aberdeen, Huntly, Fraserburgh and Inverness. In 2002 the firm expanded into the central belt and opened an office in Edinburgh, followed by offices in Forfar and Glasgow in 2003. A merger in 2004 resulted in the first office to be opened in Perth.

The firm now represents 11,000 clients via a 46-strong partnership and over 420 staff.

Earlier this year, Johnston Carmichael was announced as the Scottish Accountancy Awards Firm of the Year for the fourth consecutive year.

MACTAGGART & MICKEL WINS HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR 2011

Over 500 guests packed out the Edinburgh International Conference Centre last night (Thursday 9 June) to celebrate the Scottish Home Awards 2011.

Twenty five winners were announced with Mactaggart & Mickel collecting the ultimate award, the Gillespie Macandrew Housebuilder of the Year Award 2011, as well as achievement for Small Housebuilder of the Year.

Former Housebuilder of the Year winner, Miller continued their success by collecting two awards including Luxury House of the Year for the Playfair at Graysmill Gait, Edinburgh, and the highly coveted Large Housebuilder of the Year award.

In the most popular category, the Small Affordable Housing Association of the Year, Albyn Housing Society & Keppie Design colleceted the award for Plot 8 at Scotland's Housing Expo. The judges highly commended 3 other developments in this category including Port of Leith Housing Association for Coburg Street, Edinburgh; Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association for Pier Road, Ardvaser, Isle of Skye and Albyn Housing Society for Birchfield Court, Nethybridge.
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Gladedale Capital enjoyed a successful evening, with two awards going to the Quartermile Development in Edinburgh, one for their Sales and Marketing team and the other for City Apartment of the Year.

The popular House of the Year award went to Brennan and Wilson Architects for The Whole Life at Scotland’s Housing Expo, and Designer House of the Year was awarded to Gerry Goldwyre for his creative and unique property at Eskbank, Edinburgh.

The new categories in the 2011 programme, Environmental Excellence Award and Senior Housing Development of the Year went to HLM Architects for the Passive House Terrace at Scotland’s Housing Expo, and Albyn Housing Society for Birchfield Court, Nethybridge respectively.

The event was hosted by BBC Scotland’s Catriona Shearer and Dougie Vipond. A keynote address was delivered by the new Minister for Housing and Transport, Keith Brown MSP. Scottish comedian and actor, Jonathan Watson entertained guests after the award presentations.

The event raises funds for Children 1st - Scotland’s leading child welfare charity.

Apartment of the Year, sponsored by Ross + Liddell

WINNER: Maryhill Housing Association - Maryhill Primary School, Glasgow

Architectural Excellence Award, sponsored by EKCO

WINNER: WTArchitecture - The White House, Isle of Coll

City Apartment of the Year

WINNER: Gladedale Capital Ltd – Q16, High Meadows, Quartermile, Edinburgh

Community Partnership of the Year, sponsored by MCL

WINNER: Cruden Group & The City of Edinburgh Council – Evolution at Gracemount, Edinburgh

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Wates - North Lanarkshire Framework

Conversion of the Year

WINNER: Imagine Developments - Museum Hall, Bridge of Allan

Designer House of the Year, sponsored by What House?

WINNER: Gerry Goldwyre - RP9, Eskbank

Environmental Excellence Award sponsored by The William Tracey Group

WINNER: HLM Architects - The Passive House Terrace, Scotland’s Housing Expo

House of the Year sponsored by ros.gov.uk

WINNER: Brennan & Wilson Architects - The Whole Life House, Scotland's Housing Expo

Large Affordable Housing Development of the Year

WINNER: Bett Homes West Scotland - Richmond Gate, Glasgow

Large Housing Association of the Year, sponsored by NHBC

WINNER: Shettleston Housing Association

Luxury House of the Year, sponsored by Aareon UK

WINNER: Miller Homes - Playfair at Graysmill Gait, Edinburgh

Rural Development of the Year, sponsored by The Scotsman

WINNER: Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association - Burnside, Plockton, Ross-shire

Sales and Marketing Team of the Year, sponsored by Klaklak

WINNER: Gladedale Capital Ltd for Quartermile Edinburgh

Senior Housing Development of the Year

WINNER: Albyn Housing Society - Birchfield Court, Nethybridge

Small Affordable Housing Development of the Year, sponsored by First Display

WINNER: Albyn Housing Society & Keppie Design Limited - Plot 8, Scotland's Housing Expo

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association - Pier Road, Ardvaser, Isle of Skye
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Port of Leith Housing Association - Coburg Stree, Leith, Edinburgh
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Albyn Housing Society - Birchfield Court, Nethybridge
 

Waterside Development of the Year, sponsored by Scotland on Sunday

WINNER: Eildon Housing Association - Laidlaw Court, Galashiels

Small Housebuilder of the Year, sponsored by Elevate

WINNER: Mactaggart & Mickel

Large Housebuilder of the Year, sponsored by Space & Time Media Ltd

WINNER: Miller Homes

The Judges Award

WINNER: Springfield Properties

WINNER: Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership (DGHP) - Flats One & Two Municipal Terrace, Dumfries

Gillespie Macandrew Housebuilder of the Year:

WINNER: Mactaggart & Mickel

JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL WINS BEST FIRM FOR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Scotland’s largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants, Johnston Carmichael, has clinched the Best Medium Firm of the Year award for the fourth consecutive year at the Scottish Accountancy Awards.

Johnston Carmichael beat off stiff competition from Anderson Anderson Brown and Campbell Dallas to be named the winner of the prestigious award at the annual awards ceremony and dinner held in Glasgow last night (Thursday).

Johnston Carmichael was named Best Medium Firm of the Year at the inaugural awards in 2008 and retained the title in 2009 and 2010.

Johnston Carmichael’s chief executive Sandy Manson said: “To have achieved a hat trick last year in winning this prestigious industry award last year was a big thrill but to retain the title for a fourth consecutive year is a great honour and a huge testament to our people and clients, all of whom have made this possible. Johnston Carmichael is celebrating its 75th anniversary in business this year so it is a special year in which to win the award.”

“While we have grown considerably in the last 75 years we still have much to do as we continue to work on achieving our ambitious plans for the firm”

Johnston Carmichael has offices in Aberdeen, Inverness, Edinburgh, Fraserburgh, Elgin, Glasgow, Forfar, Huntly, Inverurie and Perth, and currently employs more than 450 people throughout the country.

The firm has specialist expertise across a number of sectors including construction, agriculture and rural property, energy services, engineering, fishing, food and food processing, hospitality, dentistry, pharmacy, medical, healthcare and professional services sector.

For further information, please contact:

Kirsten Speirs/ Isla Munro                         KDMedia Ltd 0131 337 6232

JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL NOMINATED FIRM OF THE YEAR

Scotland’s largest independent accountancy firm has been shortlisted as Firm of the Year 2011 in a prestigious awards programme which celebrates the best advisers in Scotland.

Johnston Carmichael has progressed as Firm of the Year in the Scottish Accountancy Awards along with one of their key tax experts, Craig Mathieson, VAT Director, nominated in the Tax Adviser of the Year category.

It’s the fourth year in a row that the firm has made the finals of the Scottish Accountancy Awards and are currently holders of the title Firm of the Year for the last three years. The firm is eligible in the medium sized category.

Sandy Manson, Chief Executive, commented;

“We are delighted to be shortlisted again for this prestigious award. In these challenging times it’s vital that professional advisers provide their clients with a growing range of services and advice which help our clients to build stronger businesses. The accountancy profession has a key role to play in helping our clients and the economy grow and that is why we need to be more responsive and client focussed than ever as a profession. The Scottish Accountancy Awards can only help to encourage excellence and innovation in our profession.

“Our entire team throughout Scotland continue to show tremendous commitment to supporting our clients and so we are all thrilled to make the final stages of these national awards.”

Craig Mathieson, the firm’s nominated VAT expert who also leads an adventurous life as Scotland’s greatest living polar explorer, commented;

“I’m absolutely delighted to hear this news and it’s a big boost to our entire tax team.”

The fourth annual Scottish Accountancy Awards ceremony and dinner will take place on May 19 2011 at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.

Johnston Carmichael has offices in Aberdeen, Inverness, Edinburgh, Fraserburgh, Elgin, Glasgow, Forfar, Huntly, Inverurie and Perth, and currently employs more than 450 people throughout the country.

The firm has specialist expertise across a number of sectors including financial services, construction, energy, fishing, food, hospitality, dentistry, agriculture, landed estates, healthcare and professional services sector.

For further information, please contact:
Kirsten Speirs/ Isla Munro                         KDMedia Ltd 0131 337 6232

KEY TENANT KICK STARTS £45M DEVELOPMENT IN EDINBURGH’S OLD TOWN

Work will start this month on a £45m development on the edge of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to bring a new hotel-led, mixed use development to the Castlehill area of the city.

Multi-sector property developers, Chris Stewart Group, have announced that they have completed the purchase of a 140,000 sq ft site and have agreed terms with Motel One, one of Europe’s fastest growing hotel groups, to anchor the development by opening their first UK hotel in the Scottish capital next summer.

Motel One, a luxury budget operator which has 32 hotels in Germany and two in development in Austria, have agreed terms for a 208 bedroom hotel located in the former buildings of Edinburgh City Council’s Economic Development department on Market Street.

The £25m hotel will form the cornerstone of the development which already has planning consent and will include 30,000 sq ft of residential space including self catering apartments, plus six office premises comprising 10,000sq ft each, and two new restaurants. The development site which stretches from Market Street towards Advocates Close off the Royal Mile will take three years to complete.

Chris Stewart, the award-winning property developer who has been converting historic buildings in Scotland for over 15 years, said that the agreement with Motel One was crucial in securing the future of the site. He commented;

“Bringing Motel One in to anchor the whole development kick starts the regeneration of a key part of the Old Town which will take place over the next three years. I am delighted that we can now start to physically move the project forward. “

Motel One were introduced to me by Scottish Development International at the annual International Investment Hotel Forum in Berlin and it was clear that they were actively looking at the UK."

“Edinburgh was high on their target list and although this site has been challenging for us due to its sensitive nature and historic context, we were sure it could provide Motel One with everything they were looking for. I hope that Market Street is the first of many projects which we do with Motel One.”

Anne MacColl, Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Development International, commented;

"On behalf of Scottish Development International, I am pleased to welcome the announcement of Motel One's first UK property in Edinburgh. SDI has been actively engaged since early 2008 to help them identify the right property to grow their European business as well as introducing them to the property's developer, Chris Stewart.

"UK hotels continue to be the most occupied in Europe, with Edinburgh showing the highest occupancy in the UK outside of London. Motel One's decision to locate in Edinburgh reinforces the fact that Scotland presents significant opportunities for hotel development and this project will help to generate additional tourism revenue for Scotland from increased international visitors."

Market Street will be the fourth major hotel development carried out by Chris Stewart Group in recent years. The company has successfully developed three other sites in Edinburgh City Centre, two on Waterloo Place now occupied by Apex Hotels and Travelodge, and one further site on Baxter’s Place which is due to move forward later this year.

Motel One’s arrival in the capital will bring the total number of hotel beds generated by Chris Stewart Group to over 700 in the past four years, making the company Scotland’s most successful hotel developer. Stewart continued;

“We are very busy on a number of developments and considering acquiring a number of new sites for multi-sector opportunities in prime locations. Most interestingly, we are in talks with a number of international brands who are keen to establish a presence in the Scottish market. We are in a strong cash position and have secured some financial backing to allow us to buck the trend in the market at the moment.”

Chris Stewart Group also includes a highly successful residential business which is currently selling Elie House in Fife and a collection of upper-end executive flats on the Mound in Edinburgh. A third Edinburgh residential project in the West End of the city will be announced shortly which will include a mixture of city loft apartments and office space.

Chris Stewart Group has developed from a niche residential developer 15 years ago into a multi-sector real estate development and investment business. The group of companies is owned by award winning property developer Chris Stewart who has been praised for redeveloping complicated city centre sites and listed buildings totalling over 30 projects since 1996. Chris Stewart was recognised for his achievements by the UK property industry with an award presented by Property Week in 2009.



Further media information, please contact:

Kirsten Speirs/ Isla Munro KDMedia Ltd 0131 337 6232 / 07810434204

• THOMPSONS SCOTLAND WINS FIRM OF THE YEAR 2011

• SIR DAVID EDWARD KCMG, QC, FRSE, PC PRESENTED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD



Over 450 guests packed out the Edinburgh International Conference Centre last night (Thursday 17 March) to celebrate the Scottish Legal Awards 2011. Fourteen winners were announced with Thompsons Scotland collecting the ultimate award, the DX Firm of the Year Award 2011.

Sir David Edward was honoured with the Scotsman Lifetime Achievement Award for his career as a lawyer, academic and former Judge of the Court of Justice of the European Communities.

Former Firm of the Year winner, Harper Macleod continued their success by collecting four awards including new for the 2011 programme, the Energy Team of the Year category; Support Team of the Year; Public Sector Law Team of the Year and individual recognition went to Susan Breen as Paralegal of the Year.

In the most popular category, the Litigation Team of the Year, Digby Brown were highly commended by the judges, but the ultimate winner went to Simpson & Marwick who collected the award .

Pagan Osborne enjoyed a successful evening, with three awards going to the East Coast firm including Private Client Team of the Year; Gillian Gibbons as Rising Star of the Year; and Colin Clark, agricultural specialist for Specialist Lawyer of the Year.

In the team categories, awards were presented to Biggart Baillie for Commercial Property Team of the Year; maloco + associates for the Residential Property Team of the Year; ros.gov.uk for Fundraising Achievement of the Year for their committed efforts for Alzheimer Scotland. Russel + Aitken won the Innovation Award for their property film trailers and the Law Society of Scotland were awarded Training Provider of the Year.

The event was hosted by Scottish comedian Jonathan Watson and BBC Scotland’s Catriona Shearer. Irish Comedian Keith Farnan entertained guests after the award presentations. The event also raises funds for Children 1st Scotland’s leading child welfare charity.

THE WINNERS IN FULL

Energy Team of the Year
• Harper Macleod
• Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie
WINNER: Harper Macleod

Law Society of Scotland Fundraising Achievement of the Year
• Inksters Solicitors
• McGrigors
• Ros.gov.uk
WINNER: Ros.gov.uk

LexisNexis Innovation Award
• Inksters Solicitors
• Pagan Osborne
• Russel + Aitken
• Young & Partners
WINNER: Russel + Aitken

Grant Thornton Litigation Team of the Year
• Andersons Solicitors
• Biggart Baillie
• Davidson Chalmers
• Digby Brown
• Halliday Campbell WS
• HBJ Gateley Wareing
• Simpson & Marwick
• Thorntons
• Young & Partners
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Digby Brown
WINNER: Simpson & Marwick

Scottish Paralegal Association Paralegal of the Year
• Susan Breen, Harper Macleod
• Brendan Kelly, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie
WINNER: Susan Breen, Harper Macleod

Hotel Du Vin Private Client Team of the Year
• Archibald Campbell & Harley
• Brodies
• Pagan Osborne
WINNER: Pagan Osborne

MCL Public Sector Law Team of the Year
• Biggart Baillie
• Civil Legal Assistance Office - Highlands and Islands
• Harper Macleod
• Scottish Court Service - North Strathclyde
WINNER: Harper Macleod

Ros.gov.uk Residential Property Team of the Year
• maloco + associates
• Simpson & Marwick
WINNER: maloco + associates

Rising Star of the Year
• Gillian Gibbons, Pagan Osborne
• Erica Buchan, Ledingham Chalmers
• Philip Hannay, Macdonald Henderson
• Paul McNairney, Morisons LLP
• Anna Louise Christie, The Wood Group
WINNER: Gillian Gibbons, Pagan Osborne

Scottish Law Directory Specialist Lawyer of the Year
• Andy Drane, Davidson Chalmers
• Carol Fox, Fox Cross Solicitors Ltd
• Iain Nisbet, Govan Law Centre
• David Kaye, Harper Macleod
• Colin Clark, Pagan Osborne
• Iain Clark, Young & Partners
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Iain Nisbet, Govan Law Centre
WINNER: Colin Clark, Pagan Osborne

Millar & Bryce Support Team of the Year
• Harper Macleod
• First Scottish Group Ltd
WINNER: Harper Macleod

GP Wolffe Training Provider of the Year
• Central Law Training
• The Law Society of Scotland
WINNER: The Law Society of Scotland

DX Firm of the Year
• Davidson Chalmers
• Simpson & Marwick
• Thompsons Scotland
WINNER: Thompsons Scotland

Elevate Commercial Property Team of the Year

WINNER: Biggart Baillie

4TH ANNUAL SCOTTISH HOME AWARDS LAUNCH



The national awards programme for new build housing in Scotland has launched for a 4th year with a promise to recognise, reward and celebrate the best new homes in the country.

The Scottish Home Awards 2011 is open for entries in a range of categories covering city apartments, family homes to rural conversions. New build developers, architects and builders have until Thursday 21 April to complete their entries in any number of the 21 categories.

New categories this year include the category “Senior Housing Development of the Year” which will recognise the work to create new independent and assisted living space for the elderly.

This year there is also a new award for Environmental Excellence which will be presented to a company which is delivering a sustained and proactive approach to trailblazing new technology which assisted the environmental performance of new housing.

Housing Associations now have three categories to choose from with a new Medium sized category for associations managing upwards of 1000 units. These are joined by the usual favourites which together make up the 21 categories which cover the breadth of the industry.

Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil, commented;

“Scotland a housing industry that boasts an abundance of talented, dedicated people. The Scottish Home Awards is a fitting platform to showcase and celebrate the industry’s reputation for building houses to high standards.”

Malcolm Macleod, Director of NHBC, and also a member of the judging panel, commented;

“It is evident from NHBC’s Scottish Housing Statistics for 2010 that it was a better year than 2009 for house builders, and whilst this is positive the output overall remains constrained, primarily due to lack of mortgage availability. House builders continue to produce quality homes and are achieving sales in quite challenging times, however branding and positive media marketing can assist further by adding value to these processes and the Scottish Home Awards is an excellent way to showcase new developments and recognise the valuable contributions made by your marketing, construction and sales teams.”

The full panel of judges consists of experts drawn from the housing, design, property and construction industries and will be revealed in The Scotsman next month.

After a period of judging the entries, finalists will gather at a black tie awards dinner which takes place in Edinburgh in June.

Guidelines for Entries

Entries are welcomed from house builders, housing associations, architects and developers. Entries should consist of a written entry of up to 1000 words and if appropriate, accompanied by location plan, floor plans, specification, marketing materials and photography or CGIs. All entries should be submitted before 12 noon on 21st April 2011. Nominated developments must be in Scotland and have commenced construction between September 2009 and February 2011. Businesses applying for any of the awards must have office premises in Scotland.

The key dates are:

Deadline for entries: Thursday 21 April
Judging Day: Thursday 28 April
Finalists Announced: Thursday 5 May
Awards Ceremony: Thursday 9 June

To review this year's categories, click on categories above.

For a copy of the entry guide email isla@kdmedia.co.uk

A former Royal Mail sorting office in Edinburgh City Centre has been sold for £4million in a deal funded by a merchant bank specialising in property finance.

Close Property Finance has funded the acquisition of the 4 acre development site by Attila Asset Management who will progress a mixed scheme of residential and commercial space.

The deal is one of a number of property deals which the Scottish based outfit has funded thanks to its willingness to lend on development projects, a sector still largely off limits for the High Street Banks.

Stuart Anthony, Director of Close Property Finance, commented;

“Brunswick Road is a good funding proposal for Close Property Finance thanks to its strategic location and excellent local amenities. This particular management team has a strong track record and despite the lack of finance from High Street banks for land development, we can see the potential and have the ability to lend.”

Close Property Finance are part of one of the UK’s oldest merchant banks and has been lending in Scotland for the last two years.

Anthony continued; “We are happy to talk to any developers and are looking at a number of large scale projects at the moment. Close Property Finance has now provided funding in excess of £30m in Scotland for around 20 projects ranging from residential development to pre-let commercial schemes”.

The former Royal Mail sorting office site occupies an enviable location for a residential builder. Located between Leith Walk and Easter Road and alongside a number of public parks, there is a playground and a Primary School in walking distance.

James Aumonier, Director of Attila Asset Management, commented:

“Finding funding for residential planning plays and development is difficult at the moment so were delighted Close Property Finance supported us. It’s refreshing to work with people who see potential in the longer term, and are willing to move quickly. We look forward to reviewing other opportunities with Close and adding to our portfolio in the near future.”

Close Property Finance operates from an office in Edinburgh’s Melville Street and is a team of three executives. The business is part of the Close Brothers Group plc, a diversified group of specialist financial services businesses operating in banking, asset management and securities.

How to Keep Your Child Benefit
By Mark Houston

If you earn marginally over £44k and have children then you could be badly affected by the news that child benefit will be cut to higher income families in 2013.

At the worst end of the scale will be the single working parent with a number of children, for example a working mum with three children earning £45k could lose benefits of £2500.

If you are in a two income household and both earning under the higher tax band then you could escape the cut. As long as your individual income doesn't exceed £44k then you could retain the benefit, according to the latest announcement from the government.

Borderline earners might now be thinking about how to reduce taxable income in exchange for some other benefit from their employers.

The most extreme reaction could be to request a pay cut as it may be more efficient. For example, a parent with two children earning £45k could be over £1,100 better off by reducing their salary below the £44k threshold.

Flexibility with your employer will be essential if you are to make changes. The ability to sacrifice salary for either pension contributions or childcare vouchers may prove efficient. You could also try to negotiate unpaid holiday leave into your contract in exchange for a lower salary.

If you run an owner managed business, you could reduce salary and dividends leaving any surplus cash in the company. If you currently operate your business as a sole trade or partnership, incorporating your business or introducing a corporate partner at this time may allow you to control your marginal rate of tax more effectively in the future.

Other measures could include transferring investments into a spouse's name if they are earning at lower marginal rates of tax or by giving gift aid contributions to a charity. Individual savings accounts are also great for tax breaks if saving or investing as any income is exempt from income tax.

However, great care must be taken at this time. The government has not yet defined "earnings" and also plan to reduce the higher rate tax threshold from £44k to £42k. Therefore, it would be wise to await further news before making any changes to your circumstances. With further tax changes likely to come, taking professional tax advice is always recommended.

Mark Houston is a partner with Johnston Carmichael.
www.jcca.co.uk

Scottish businesses are missing a trick when it comes to claiming cash form businesses which go under, according to the latest annual report from the Accountant in Bankruptcy.

£20.8 million of money is now held in funds by the Scottish government agency and is lying unclaimed by businesses.

The figure has increased this year by 20% indicating a rising apathy in businesses in claiming money despite the gloomy economic climate.

As recently as 2004, the figure was £2.4m but this year’s report shows the number has escalated to nearly ten times that amount in the last five years.

Matt Henderson, Business Recovery & Insolvency partner at Johnston Carmichael, said that many businesses were unaware of the process in pursuing these funds and need to be more tenacious.

He commented;

“It’s incredible that in the current financial climate businesses don’t seem to be pursuing these funds more rigorously. Some companies seem to give up being paid if a customer goes bust. If you engage in the insolvency process there is often money available, perhaps not in every case, but even small sums should be worth the effort.

“If your company is due money from a failed business, take the time to complete the formal documentation and keep regular contact with the insolvency agent. Like many insolvency practitioners, I find it very frustrating when businesses don’t pursue the payments which are due to them.”

In its annual report for 2009-2010, the Accountant in Bankruptcy revealed that it had paid out £1.4m of consigned funds during the year but a further £5.42m of new funds were consigned, leaving a balance of £20.84m. The agency also stated that it has an electronic case management system to trace original creditors. Creditors can also register directly for payments online to track funds directly.

Henderson continued;

“While the Accountant in Bankruptcy seems to be taking a more proactive approach, the onus remains on businesses to pursue this money. Businesses should speak to their accountant or business adviser to agree the best course of action.”

An historic Edinburgh building has been acquired by a Scottish development company as it makes the first of a number of well timed moves to build its property portfolio.

Beaghmor Property, part of the cash-strong Chris Stewart Group, has purchased a Bank of Scotland building on The Mound for just over £1 million.

The 8,000 sq ft terraced block on North Bank Street is the former home to a bank branch and office suites.

The four storey building benefits from sweeping views north over Princes Street and is close to the famous Ramsay Gardens apartments and the historic Bank of Scotland headquarters.

Beaghmor has already secured planning permission to convert the building into one and two bedroom city flats. The designs completed by Guy Morgan of Morgan McDonnell Architects show a range of premium residences which are expected to market for over £300,000 each.

Work commences this month and the building should be completed by the end of the year.

Chris Stewart, Director, commented;

“North Bank Street will become unique and contemporary residences in a very historic and commanding site in the old town. It is now in need of a major upgrade and something we can really make our mark on. We very pleased to be successful in our offer.”

Beaghmor, one of a number of parties to offer on the building, was funded by Close Brothers, the independent merchant bank, which is backing Stewart for the first time, not long after he won Property Newcomer of the Year in a prestigious national awards programme.

Stuart Anthony, Director of Close Property Finance, commented;

“Our Edinburgh office opened in January 2009 and whilst we have now concluded over 20 deals across Scotland, the North Bank Street project represents our first scheme in our capital city. We are delighted to be Beaghmor’s funding partner in this exciting new development.”

The Chris Stewart Group focuses on prime residential and commercial property development. In recent years, the companies have sold over £55 million in residential and commercial property covering over 600,000 sq. ft. of city centre regeneration projects.

Stewart is currently fronting a variety of projects including a 12,000 sq. ft. redevelopment of 3 Victorian townhouses into boutique serviced apartments on the south side of Edinburgh. In 2007 Stewart made a number of well timed and successful sales which has left the business in a debt-free position prior to the downturn. This has included the sale of a 105,000 sq ft building in Waterloo Place to Apex Hotels for £13m.

East Lothian’s first premier business park has commenced a multi-level marketing campaign to find owners and tenants.

Lothian Park, the £30 million commercial centre and hotel development located at Old Craighall junction, is being publicised throughout the UK as agents seek to find high quality owners and businesses to occupy the space on an ownership or pre-let basis.

It is hoped that the planned site which consists of four contemporary office buildings totalling 107,000 sq.ft. and a landmark 120 bedroom hotel, will dramatically improve out of town business space and help supply much needed local jobs for East Lothian workers.

Agents have developed a new website, glossy brochure and have commissioned computer generated images which will shortly appear on signage to be placed on site.

Businesses are being offered the chance to consider the new hub as a potential home with excellent transport links via road and rail into the centre of town and into East Lothian. It’s also a rare opportunity to take advantage of the high quality East Lothian workforce, many of who make the arduous journey for work into Edinburgh City Centre.

With the West of Edinburgh heavily developed, Lothian Park will be the first major commercial centre on the east side of the city which once complete could supply jobs to over 800 East Lothian people.

Agents acting for the owners of the venture are now approaching hotel operators and developers, as well as prospective office occupiers with known pre-let or purchase requirements.

Mike Rutterford, one of the partners involved in the development, commented;

“Lothian Park fills a major gap in the provision of premier business and leisure space at the gateway into Edinburgh. We know there are large numbers of East Lothian workers making the journey into the city and we hope that this development will provide more local employment opportunities.

“In time, this development could rival Edinburgh Park and we’re hopeful of finding first class commercial tenants who can provide high quality work to local people. No one wants to see high volume commuter traffic in and out of the city, we need to develop commercial space here and Lothian Park will be an excellent resource at a major junction into Edinburgh.”

The plans for a 120-bed hotel should also be well received by the business and leisure markets due to the shortage of good quality mid-range hotels in East Lothian.

The Lothian Park hotel would benefit from the highly accessible business location together with the wide ranging leisure facilities on offer including golf, multiple retail outlets, coastal walks and beaches.

Mr Rutterford continued,

“It’s in the best interests of everyone in East Lothian that we try to secure these opportunities now so this project is developed in time for better business conditions.”

Johnston Carmichael, Scotland’s largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants, has unveiled full year results which show double digit growth throughout its markets in Scotland in what continues to be challenging business conditions.

The firm reported that group turnover was up 10% from £24.44m to £26.93m in the year ended to 31 May 2010 which places the firm in the Top 25 accountancy firms in the UK.

The firm is only one of four accountancy firms in the UK Top 50 which has posted double digit growth figures in 2010.

Sandy Manson, Chief Executive of Johnston Carmichael, commented;

“I am greatly encouraged that despite the tough economic conditions, we have been able to grow our business right across Scotland”

“Areas of consistent and steady growth included tax planning, accounting and management information support which are in much demand in the current climate. Further, given the problems faced by a number of businesses as a result of the recession, the firm’s business recovery division under Matt Henderson’s leadership has achieved 12% growth over the year.”

However, it is the firm’s focus on business development in the central belt which has shown a high rate of success with the Glasgow and Edinburgh offices achieving combined growth of 36%. The central belt now accounts for more than 30% of total revenues for the firm.

Manson continued;

“We still see significant potential for further growth in the central belt and that is why we continue to actively recruit in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We have created a number of new positions and recently recruited a senior partner from a rival firm.”

Johnston Carmichael has continued to gain clients in the privately owned and family business sector and has also expanded its services to reflect growing demand.

“We have launched a team of specialists to expand our business in the renewable energy field as well as charities. The core of our business remains the Scottish SME market where businesses are now looking for greater service and value from their advisers than ever before. It is in this sector that we have seen some excellent opportunities for client gains and this has allowed us to achieve this level of growth in difficult market conditions.”

“Scottish businesses are becoming more efficient and competitive and that augurs well for the future. As a firm we continue to see several strategic opportunities to expand our business through merging with other firms. Our strategy however, will remain focussed on organic growth and in hiring capable and energised people who can help take our firm to the next level.”

The firm has 10 strategically located offices across Scotland servicing over 11,000 businesses and individuals.

Earlier this year, Johnston Carmichael was announced the Scottish Accountancy Awards Scottish Firm of the Year for the third year running in its category and last year was named by the Sunday Times as one of the ‘Best Companies to Work For’.

The Scottish house building industry was given a major boost last night as the winners in the third annual Scottish Home Awards were revealed at a sold out event in Edinburgh.

450 of the nation’s builders, architects and housing associations, celebrated the best new build housing created in Scotland and enjoyed the comic relief of special guest, Kevin Bridges.

Miller Homes were triumphant collecting three awards, winning the ultimate accolade of the evening, the Gillespie Macandrew Scottish House Builder of the Year Award. They also collected the prize for Apartment of the Year for Ferry Village at Braehead, Glasgow and for Sales and Marketing Team of the Year.

Other major prizes went to Mactaggart and Mickel who won the Small Housebuilder of the Year Award and Bellway Homes for Large House Builder of the Year.

Link Housing, the Edinburgh based housing association, won Large Housing Association of the Year.

Leading edge design was also recognised with awards given to StudioDub for Designer House of the Year who delivered a home in Craiglockhart, Edinburgh.

Luxury House of the Year went to Forbes of Kingennie for their rural development Kingennie Fields, located on the outskirts of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.

The award for Architectural Excellence went to WTArchitecture for their dramatic conversion of a New Town mews house in Edinburgh. In the hotly contested House of the Year category, niche builder Story Homes fought off major rivals to win for their design for Summerpark Home in Dumfries, the judges impressed by its vernacular style.

The awards, sponsored by ros.gov.uk, are run in partnership with house builders, sponsors and an expert judging panel to recognise the best in new build created in the last year. The winners received a specially commissioned award statue and a marketing pack designed to help boost sales.

Chair of the judging panel, Margo Macdonald commented;

“It’s very difficult to sell houses at the moment but hopefully our winners will now have the edge over the competition by showing their developments as truly award winning in a highly respected programme which has great support from the industry.

“It’s also important to recognise achievements this year when housing businesses have really struggled to come to terms with the recession. Anyone delivering new homes in this environment is worthy of recognition but these winners have really excelled.”

52 businesses made the finals in the competition which received over 130 entries. The results were determined by a 14 strong panel of industry experts.

THE WINNERS

APARTMENT OF THE YEAR – Sponsored by ESPC
Meridian Homes, The Baird, Avon Court, Hamilton
Miller Homes, Ferry Village, Braehead, Glasgow
Oberlanders & AMA, Jex Blake House, Springside, Edinburgh
Springfield Properties PLC, Moravia Apartments, Elgin
Stewart Milne Homes, Ythan View, Ellon, Aberdeenshire
Studio DuB, Microflats 11 - 19 Peffermill, Edinburgh
Taylor Wimpey & Bett Homes, The Strada, Edinburgh

WINNER: Miller Homes, Ferry Village, Braehead, Glasgow.

ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE AWARD - Sponsored by Ekco JAMstudio Ltd, Little Maldron Mill, Torphins, Aberdeenshire
Lorn Macneal Architects, Greenhill Gardens, Edinburgh
Meridian Homes, Ardnablane, Dunblane
Nord Architecture, Tigh Na Gcearc, 1 Linthills, Lochwinnoch
OMI Architects, The Coach House, Falkirk
Red Door Cottages & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "Well House", Drum Farm, Kippen
RMJM, Park House, Glasgow
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride WTArchitecture, 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

WINNER: WTArchitecture, 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

CITY APARTMENT OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Family
Dandara, gh2o, Glasgow
Gladedale Capital Ltd, Quartermile, Edinburgh
Manor Kingdom, The Palazzo, Merchant City, Glasgow
Miller Homes, Varcity, Type 21, Edinburgh
Oberlanders & AMA, Inglis Point, Springside, Edinburgh
RMJM, Park House, Glasgow

WINNER: RMJM, Park House, Glasgow

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Shelter
R3 - Taylor Wimpey/Cruden Homes, Stirling Bridge, Raploch, Stirling Springfield Properties PLC, The Glassgreen Centre, Elgin

WINNER:: Taylor Wimpey and Cruden Homes for Stirling Bridge, Raploch, Stirling.

CONVERSION OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Elevate
Crichton Wood Architects, 10 Orchard Road South, Edinburgh
Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership (DGHP), Municipal Terrace & Millburn Avenue, Dumfries
Gladedale Capital Ltd, Quartermile, Edinburgh
GRS Homes, Easter Greenrigg Farm, Nr Falkirk
HBS Winston Barracks, Sandhurst Building, Lanark
JAMstudio Ltd, Little Maldron Mill, Torphins, Aberdeenshire
Ogilvie Homes Ltd, Dovecot Steadings, Haddington
The National Trust for Scotland, The Old Schoolhouse, Logie
Unicorn Property Group, Clock Tower, Dundee
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride WTArchitecture, 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

WINNERS – the judges presented two awards: JAMStudio, Little Maldron Mill, Torphins, Aberdeenshire and WT Architecture 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

WATERSIDE DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by ros.gov.uk
Dandara, gh2o, Glasgow Manor Kingdom, Kip Village, Inverkip
Miller Homes, Ferry Village, Glasgow

WINNER: Dandara, gh20, Glasgow

DESIGNER HOUSE OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by What House?
Red Door Cottages & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "Well House", Drum Farm, Kippen
Studio DuB, 9 Craiglockhart Loan, Edinburgh
West Residential Ltd, "Leanachan", The Braes, Kirkton of Auchterhouse, Nr Dundee

Winner: Studio Dub, 9 Craiglockhart Loan, Edinburgh

HOUSE OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Designer Contracts
ATD Developments & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "The Caprington" Fenwick Glade, Ayrshire
Bellway Homes Scotland, Glentress, Forest Walk, Callander
Meridian Homes, The Windsor at the Spires, Crossmichael, Castle Douglas Miller Homes, Newton Park, The Jura, Cambuslang
Nord Architecture, Tigh Na Gcearc, 1 Linthills, Lochwinnoch
Redrow Homes, "Graemeslea", Aberuthven, Perth
Stewart Milne Homes, The Noblewood, Leathan Mews, Portlethen, Aberdeenshire
Story Homes, Summerpark, Dumfries
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Cottage 3 - Lawside Meadows, Strathevan, East Kilbride

WINNER: Story Homes, Summerpark, Dumfries

LARGE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR Cruden Homes (East) Ltd, Plots 20/20A Forthquarter, Granton Dunedin Canmore Housing Association, Oxgangs Regeneration, Edinburgh
Oak Tree Housing Association & Cooper Cromar, Grieve Road/Wren Road Regeneration Project, Greenock
Port of Leith Housing Association, Goosander Place, Edinburgh
R3 - Taylor Wimpey/Cruden Homes, Stirling Bridge, Raploch, Stirling

WINNER: Port of Leith Housing Association, Goosander Place, Edinburgh

LARGE HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF THE YEAR
Cube Housing Association
Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership
Hillcrest Housing Association
Link Group
Servite Housing Association

WINNER: Link Group

LUXURY HOUSE OF THE YEAR - sponsored by Designer Contracts
Bett Homes, The Sandringham II at Bearsden, Glasgow
Forbes of Kingennie, Type 1 House, Kingennie Fields, Dundee
Manor Kingdom, The President at Keil School, Dumbarton
Meridian Homes, The Glamis at Ardnablane, Dunblane
Miller Homes, Graysmill Gait, The Lorimar, Edinburgh
Richmond Homes, Plot 19 & 20, Trynlaw, Cupar

WINNER: Forbes of Kingennie, Kingennie Fields, Dundee.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Gillespie Macandrew
ATD Developments & McEachern MacDuff Architects, Fenwick Glade, Ayrshire
Bellway Homes Scotland, Forest Walk, Callander
Forbes of Kingennie, Type 1 House, Kingennie Fields, Dundee
GRS Homes, Easter Greenrigg Steading, Nr Falkirk
Meridian Homes, The Spires, Crossmichael, Nr Castle Douglas
Richmond Homes, Wood of Coldrain, Kinross, Perthshire
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride

WINNER: Richmond Homes, Wood of Coldrain, Kinross Perthshire

SALES & MARKETING TEAM OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by MCL Bellway Homes Scotland Gladedale Capital Ltd
Manor Kingdom Meridian Homes
Miller Homes
Stewart Milne Homes
Unicorn Property Group

WINNER: Miller Homes

SMALL AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR Bield Housing Association, Pearce Street, Govan
Clyde Valley Housing Association, School Road, Stepps
Dunedin Canmore Housing Association, Fleming Place, Edinburgh
Hillcrest Housing Association, Kirk Street, Dundee
Margaret Blackwood Housing Association, 670 Argyle Street, Glasgow Midlothian Council, Esk View Road, Midlothian
PARC Craigmillar, Collier Place, Edinburgh
Servite Housing Association, West Heather Road, Inverness

WINNER: Servite Housing Association, West Heather Road, Inverness

SMALL HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by The Scotsman
Lomond Homes
Mactaggart & Mickel Homes
Meridian Homes

WINNER: Mactaggart & Mickel Homes

LARGE HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR - Sponsored by Scotland on Sunday
Bellway Homes Scotland
Miller Homes
Taylor Wimpey

WINNER: Bellway Homes

GILLESPIE MACANDREW HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR 2010: Miller Homes

One of Scotland’s most successful serial entrepreneurs and business angels is to receive an honorary doctorate in business after a forty year career as a dealmaker and investor.

Mike Rutterford, property developer and co-founder of the Archangel Syndicate, will receive the Honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Edinburgh Napier University today (Thursday).

The award is in recognition of his contribution to business growth in Scotland which includes investing millions of pounds in over 70 Scottish start-up companies and creating an enviable track record for lucrative property deals.

He commented;

“I am very honoured to accept this kind invitation from Edinburgh Napier. My mission has been to encourage and nurture the spirit of entrepreneurialism in Scotland to enable us to grow our economy, innovate, invent and inspire others.

“Archangel has achieved that already but there is a lot still to be done and I am supremely confident that the Scots natural ability to be entrepreneurs continues to thrive, despite tough times.”

Professor Dame Joan Stringer of Edinburgh Napier commented;

“I have known Mike Rutterford for a long time and I know that he has an exceptional talent for business while also a big heart and desire to help young people. We are delighted that he accepts this honour and can inspire our students to be inventive, ambitious business thinkers as they progress through their careers.”

Barry Sealey, co-founder with Rutterford of the Archangel syndicate commented;

"Having met Mike 18 years ago when we founded Archangels together, I have seen the wonderful contribution he has made to the development of businesses, young people and the economy over that time."

Rutterford’s earliest success was achieved when he broke the mould in housing sales in the late seventies, a market previously dominated by solicitors. After returning to Scotland from a spell as a merchant sailor he was briefly an insurance salesman before launching Stewart Wyse Ogilvie, the estate agency. Within a year, the business was trading in two shops and was motoring ahead of a curve in the housing boom. His inventive touch became highly talked about in Edinburgh business circles; he was the first to put ‘For Sale’ signs on properties, and first to strap “sold” to the same signs. The business grew to 50 branches but after ten years and an initial investment of £6000 in 1977 he sold the business for £16 million to General Accident and made his first breakthrough.

With the proceeds came other opportunities and Rutterford has made his biggest impression on the Scottish business community by serving the needs of other entrepreneurs wanting to start businesses. Launching the Archangel Network in 1991 he has helped to invest in start up companies which have invention at their very heart.

Over the last 18 years, the syndicate has invested in approximately 70 start-up companies. Archangels currently manage a portfolio of 30 live investments in the field of technology, life science, retail and manufacturing. Archangel’s many investments include Scotland’s most promising businesses; Arrayjet, CXR Biosciences, Data Discoveries, LAB 901, LUX Biotechnology, Optos, Oregon Timber, Reactec, Bloxx and Touch Bionics to name but a few. This portfolio is now valued at over £80m.

Rutterford’s eye for first class property deals also punctuates his career with regular success. He was behind the master planning of the Edinburgh site now known as Caltongate having bought the New Street site in 1993 for £1.3m and sold five years later for £12m.

He is an investor in 240 acres of prime land at New Ingliston Edinburgh to expand the services and facilities at Edinburgh Airport and he has recently launched a new development called Lothian Park for an 80 bed hotel and office development at the eastern gateway of the Bypass and East Lothian.

Mike has also been a founding investor and board member of Opto-Electronics firm Optos, which has now floated on the London Stock Exchange and has also served as a Director of the Entrepreneurial Exchange.

The award will be presented at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on Thursday 17 June 2010 at 3pm.

Scotland’s hottest comedian will give some light hearted relief to the housing industry as guest speaker at the third annual Scottish Home Awards which takes place in four week’s time.

Kevin Bridges will entertain a 500 strong audience at the show which celebrates the best new homes built in Scotland and takes place on Thursday 17 June 2010 in Edinburgh.

Bridges, currently on a UK wide tour, will co-host alongside BBC TV Scotland’s news anchor, Catriona Shearer.

This year’s Scottish Home Awards programme is expected to be the biggest yet following a 35% increase on the number of entries in 2009 and a 29% increase on numbers in 2008. 33 new companies entered the programme for the first time this year including Taylor Wimpey, Bellway Homes, Bett Homes and RMJM.

52 businesses have been shortlisted as finalists from across Scotland. 18 trophies will be presented at the black tie dinner to the best luxury houses, apartments, terraced housing, affordable flats and rural developments in 2010.

The awards are run in partnership with house builders, architects, housing associations, sponsors and judges to create an annual celebration of the best new homes built in Scotland.

The 2010 Scottish Home Awards is sponsored by ros.gov.uk, the leading provider of free property prices for the public and service provider to professionals seeking property and land information. The awards are also supported by The Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday newspapers, Gillespie Macandrew legal firm, family advertising, MCL and What House? Magazine.

The Scottish Home Awards 2010 Dinner and Ceremony takes place on Thursday 17 June 2010 at 7pm at Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh. To book your table, please contact Isla@kdmedia.co.uk; 0131 337 6232 or visit www.scottishhomeawards.com.

52 businesses have made the finals in the national awards competition for new build housing in Scotland.

The Scottish Home Awards, sponsored by ros.gov.uk, revealed the shortlist following a long day of judging over 130 entries which were received in the annual programme which recognises and celebrates house building of all types.

The entries have been judged on a range of criteria including energy efficiency, location, design and materials and marketing and incentives.

17 awards will be presented ranging from detached houses, apartments, terraced housing, affordable flats and rural developments.

A number of team awards are also presented for housing associations and housebuilders, large and small.

The ultimate award of the day, the Gillespie Macandrew Housebuilder of the Year, is presented to the company which has performed best throughout the competition in the eyes of the judges.

Chair of the judging panel, Margo Macdonald MSP, commented;

“Times have been tough, but we have seen a very positive response to the Home Awards this year which indicates an industry on the mend. 33 companies have entered this established programme for the first time this year so we’re pleased to have reviewed some very impressive work.

“The range of housing being created is very substantial from tenanted social housing in deprived areas, to design rich architecturally significant pieces of work. Many of these are very different but they share a common goal of creating new quality housing in Scotland, creating jobs and much needed homes.”


THE FINALISTS

APARTMENT OF THE YEAR

Meridian Homes, The Baird, Avon Court, Hamilton
Miller Homes, Ferry Village, Braehead, Glasgow
Oberlanders & AMA, Jex Blake House, Springside, Edinburgh
Springfield Properties PLC, Moravia Apartments, Elgin
Stewart Milne Homes, Ythan View, Ellon, Aberdeenshire
Studio DuB, Microflats 11 - 19 Peffermill, Edinburgh
Taylor Wimpey & Bett Homes, The Strada, Edinburgh

ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE AWARD

JAMstudio Ltd, Little Maldron Mill, Torphins, Aberdeenshire
Lorn Macneal Architects, Greenhill Gardens, Edinburgh
Meridian Homes, Ardnablane, Dunblane
Nord Architecture, Tigh Na Gcearc, 1 Linthills, Lochwinnoch
OMI Architects, The Coach House, Falkirk
Red Door Cottages & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "Well House", Drum Farm, Kippen
RMJM, Park House, Glasgow
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride WTArchitecture, 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

CITY APARTMENT OF THE YEAR

Dandara, gh2o, Glasgow
Gladedale Capital Ltd, Quartermile, Edinburgh
Manor Kingdom, The Palazzo, Merchant City, Glasgow
Miller Homes, Varcity, Type 21, Edinburgh
Oberlanders & AMA, Inglis Point, Springside, Edinburgh
RMJM, Park House, Glasgow

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR

R3 - Taylor Wimpey/Cruden Homes, Stirling Bridge, Raploch, Stirling Springfield Properties PLC, The Glassgreen Centre, Elgin

CONVERSION OF THE YEAR

Crichton Wood Architects, 10 Orchard Road South, Edinburgh
Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership (DGHP), Municipal Terrace & Millburn Avenue, Dumfries
Gladedale Capital Ltd, Quartermile, Edinburgh
GRS Homes, Easter Greenrigg Farm, Nr Falkirk
HBS Winston Barracks, Sandhurst Building, Lanark
JAMstudio Ltd, Little Maldron Mill, Torphins, Aberdeenshire
Ogilvie Homes Ltd, Dovecot Steadings, Haddington
The National Trust for Scotland,The Old Schoolhouse, Logie
Unicorn Property Group, Clock Tower, Dundee
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride WTArchitecture, 33 Circus Lane, Edinburgh

WATERSIDE DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

Dandara, gh2o, Glasgow
Manor Kingdom, Kip Village, Inverkip
Miller Homes, Ferry Village, Glasgow

DESIGNER HOUSE OF THE YEAR

Red Door Cottages & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "Well House", Drum Farm, Kippen
Studio DuB, 9 Craiglockhart Loan, Edinburgh
West Residential Ltd, "Leanachan", The Braes, Kirkton of Auchterhouse, Nr Dundee

HOUSE OF THE YEAR

ATD Developments & McEachern MacDuff Architects, "The Caprington" Fenwick Glade, Ayrshire
Bellway Homes Scotland, Glentress, Forest Walk, Callander
Meridian Homes, The Windsor at the Spires, Crossmichael, Castle Douglas
Miller Homes, Newton Park, The Jura, Cambuslang
Nord Architecture, Tigh Na Gcearc, 1 Linthills, Lochwinnoch
Redrow Homes, "Graemeslea", Aberuthven, Perth
Stewart Milne Homes, The Noblewood, Leathan Mews, Portlethen, Aberdeenshire
Story Homes, Summerpark, Dumfries
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Cottage 3 - Lawside Meadows, Strathevan, East Kilbride

LARGE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

Cruden Homes (East) Ltd, Plots 20/20A Forthquarter, Granton
Dunedin Canmore Housing Association, Oxgangs Regeneration, Edinburgh
Oak Tree Housing Association & Cooper Cromar, Grieve Road/Wren Road Regeneration Project, Greenock
Port of Leith Housing Association, Goosander Place, Edinburgh
R3 - Taylor Wimpey/Cruden Homes, Stirling Bridge, Raploch, Stirling

LARGE HOUSING ASSOCIATION OF THE YEAR

Cube Housing Association
Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership
Hillcrest Housing Association
Link Group
Servite Housing Association

LUXURY HOUSE OF THE YEAR

Bett Homes, The Sandringham II at Bearsden, Glasgow
Forbes of Kingennie, Type 1 House, Kingennie Fields, Dundee
Manor Kingdom, The President at Keil School, Dumbarton
Meridian Homes, The Glamis at Ardnablane, Dunblane
Miller Homes, Graysmill Gait, The Lorimar, Edinburgh
Richmond Homes, Plot 19 & 20, Trynlaw, Cupar

RURAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

ATD Developments & McEachern MacDuff Architects, Fenwick Glade, Ayrshire
Bellway Homes Scotland, Forest Walk, Callander
Forbes of Kingennie, Type 1 House, Kingennie Fields, Dundee
GRS Homes, Easter Greenrigg Steading, Nr Falkirk
Meridian Homes, The Spires, Crossmichael, Nr Castle Douglas
Richmond Homes, Wood of Coldrain, Kinross, Perthshire
W. Burrell Homes Ltd, Lawside Meadows, Strathaven, East Kilbride

SALES & MARKETING TEAM OF THE YEAR

Bellway Homes Scotland
Gladedale Capital Ltd
Manor Kingdom
Meridian Homes
Miller Homes
Stewart Milne Homes
Unicorn Property Group

SMALL AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

Bield Housing Association, Pearce Street, Govan
Clyde Valley Housing Association, School Road, Stepps
Dunedin Canmore Housing Association, Fleming Place, Edinburgh
Hillcrest Housing Association, Kirk Street, Dundee
Margaret Blackwood Housing Association, 670 Argyle Street, Glasgow Midlothian Council, Esk View Road, Midlothian
PARC Craigmillar, Collier Place, Edinburgh
Servite Housing Association, West Heather Road, Inverness

SMALL HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR

Lomond Homes
Mactaggart & Mickel Homes
Meridian Homes

LARGE HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR

Bellway Homes Scotland
Miller Homes
Taylor Wimpey

The final category is the Gillespie Macandrew Housebuilder of the Year which is given to the best overall performer in the 2010 competition and is agreed by the judges. The winner will be announced on the night.

The 2010 Scottish Home Awards is sponsored by ros.gov.uk, the leading provider of free property prices for the public and service provider to professionals seeking property and land information. The awards are also supported by The Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday newspapers, Gillespie Macandrew legal firm and What House? Magazine.

The Scottish Home Awards 2010 Dinner and Ceremony takes place on Thursday 17 June 2010 at 7pm at the Edinburgh Sheraton Grand. To book your table, please contact Isla@kdmedia.co.uk; 0131 337 6232 or visit www.scottishhomeawards.com.