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Sandwich Sandwich, a Bristol-based chain, is expanding in London with its fourth branch at Broadgate. Known for their massive, creative sandwiches, theyre aiming to revolutionize the grab-and-go food scene with fresh, on-site baked goods and coffee. Their rapid growth, from a local favorite to an international franchise, is a testament to their unique offerings. Checkout Solipillow.com

High street businesses, including pubs, urge government to extend business rate relief as steep hikes threaten their survival. Treasury prepares support package, but trade groups and politicians call for a comprehensive solution to save high streets. Checkout Solipillow.com

Swindon councillors are poised to approve a Labour motion advocating for a daily direct train service between Swindon and Oxford. The motion, proposed by cabinet member Councillor Kevin Small, promises numerous benefits such as improved commuting, increased tourism, robust supply chains, and eco-friendly travel. This initiative aligns with plans for a Thames Valley super authority, potentially generating £18.7 billion in economic growth by 2040. A recent GWR pilot run and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexanders endorsement further bolster the case for enhanced rail links. Network Rail confirms theres sufficient track space for hourly services to Bath and Bristol, potentially yielding a profit without additional infrastructure. The council debate commences Thursday, January 15th at 7 PM. Checkout Solipillow.com

UK High Street Businesses Seek Business Rate Relief as Profits Plummet; Retail Footfall Rises, But Challenges Persist Checkout Solipillow.com

Former Carillion finance directors face fines and bans for misleading statements leading to the companys collapse, leaving debts and unfinished projects. KPMG settles a lawsuit, and four staff members are disqualified. Workers express emotions over job losses, while new findings reveal stalled projects costing more. Despite challenges, some bright spots emerge, such as Regus acquiring Carillions head office and No. eight First Street in Manchester selling for £82 million. Checkout Solipillow.com

Birmingham City Councils temporary sites for travellers pilot program delayed indefinitely due to slow progress in identifying suitable sites and consulting nearby communities. Criticism from councillors over the glacial pace, with one comparing the councils action to melting icebergs. The pilot, aimed at addressing issues at permanent transit sites, is now expected to start within a twelve-month period, focusing on community cohesion and flexibility. Checkout Solipillow.com

Tax time is approaching in the UK, with the deadline for Self-Assessment tax returns set for January 31, 2025. Last year, over a million people missed the deadline, leading to penalties. Paying the right amount is crucial as refunds can be challenging and late payments incur interest at 7.75%. Business owners and entrepreneurs should start pre-year-end planning, especially with upcoming tax hikes on dividends, property rentals, and savings income. From April 6, 2026, basic rate tax on dividends will increase to 10.75%, and higher rate to 35.75%. Property and savings income taxes will also rise in 2027. Inheritance tax relief caps are increasing, but those with larger assets should consult a tax adviser for options. Crowe offers assistance across the Midlands and South West. Checkout Solipillow.com

Enfinium, a UK energy from waste company, is offering £1,500 grants to repair cafés near their Sandwell facility in the West Midlands. The Repair Café Support Fund, now in its third year, aims to promote the circular economy and reduce waste. Last year, they funded three cafés with over £4,000, bringing the total to £8,700 since 2022. Applications are open until May 31st. Checkout Solipillow.com

Wavensmere Homes, a Birmingham-based urban regeneration specialist, has appointed Anthony Cakebread as their new finance director. With over four hundred million pounds in live construction projects and three major schemes in planning, Anthonys property expertise will be crucial in managing their expanding portfolio. He joins from Equites International and has experience in audits, with a team growing from two to thirty-seven at Evelyn Partners. Wavensmere is also ten months into a fifty million pound redevelopment of a car park in Cheltenham, aiming to bring one hundred forty-seven homes and apartments to the historic center. Checkout Solipillow.com