Plymouth takeover talks heat up

A buyer for Plymouth Argyle could finally be revealed today as it emerged the interested parties are "property people" and would develop the club's Home Park site to boost income. Plymouth are currently in administration with debts believed to be £13m. More details are expected to be released later today as a funding agreement is thrashed out.

Fitness First owner in £700m deal

BC Partners – owner of Poole-based Fitness First – has snapped up Phones4U in a deal believed to be worth £700m.

CAA wins ERDF funding for helicopter base

Cornwall Air Ambulance (CAA) Trust has been awarded almost £1m in European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) money to build a base for the charity and its helicopter at Newquay Cornwall Airport.

Cobham in Boeing bomb rack boost

Cobham has won a manufacturing contract with Boeing to make more than 400 bomb racks. The weapons carriage devices will be used by the US Air Force.

£20m contract win for Hamworthy

Poole-based Hamworthy has signed a £20m contract to supply a liquid natural gas system. Hamworthy, which designs and manufactures marine and offshore fluid handling systems, has clinched the deal with the Perunding Ranhill Worley - Muhibbah Consortium.

Insider panel to debate Exeter's prospects

Insider is bringing together senior figures from the public and private sectors at a panel event to discuss Exeter's economy, redevelopment and future prospects.

Plymouth companies in e-commerce partnership

Plymouth-based Coast Business Solutions has formed an e-commerce partnership with ICO3, another Plymouth business.

The Top 500 Companies marketing database

Are you looking to source new clients? Insider’s South West Top 500 Companies 2011 database is our accurate and comprehensive business marketing list, providing you with contacts for the region’s biggest companies. Order now, or request a free sample.

Council hits out over failed Tropicana plan

North Somerset Council is “very disappointed” that businessman Richard Nightingale has pulled out of plans to regenerate Weston-super-Mare’s derelict Tropicana building. The council also described it as “a great shame” that it learned the news via the local press.

Planning changes for Bristol

Bristol’s planning protocol is being revised. It is hoped the move will make it easier for investors to negotiate the planning applications process.

Talking Point: Money in the bank?

Following years of upheaval, what relationship remains between businesses and banks? And will the government's policy help to improve access to finance and kickstart the economy? Steve Stuart of Brabners Stuart discusses the big issues facing businesses in this week's Talking Point.

Boost your client base – Request a free Insider Membership Pack

Our Insider Membership Club offers fantastic benefits for anyone doing business in the UK regions. Valuable sales leads, vital information, networking opportunities, competitor analysis and much, much more. We give you what you cannot afford not to know. Request your free Membership pack now.

Ask the Expert: Tax planning

Rachel Sestini at Target Chartered Accountants is on hand to offer expert guidance on planning your tax in what could be an uncertain 2011. Read her advice and ask her an anonymous question.

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