Hull College celebrated a double win at this year’s Educate North Awards 2024 in Manchester – including the prestigious title of Further Education College of the Year.
And out also scooped the Innovation Award for its ground-breaking AI Academy initiative. Recognising the demands of the fourth industrial revolution, the college developed a comprehensive programme addressing the pressing need for AI-focused digital literacy. Now in its tenth year, the Educate North Awards celebrate excellence, world class achievement and improvement across the University, Higher Education, Further Education, and Sixth Form sectors in the North of England. Judges, drawn from across business and academia, highlighted the college’s remarkable transformation over the past 18 months and its unwavering commitment to excellence as key factors in securing the College of the Year award. Spearheaded by a new leadership team, this impressive turnaround has seen a significant improvement in teaching, learning, and overall student experience at the college. Notable achievements include a top 25% national ranking in student success, along with a ‘Good’ Ofsted grade – including ‘Outstanding’ adult provision and ‘Strong’ for addressing regional and national skills – which represented its best Ofsted result since 2008. The AI Academy had three distinct strands: one for students, another for staff, and a third catering to businesses, impacting over 2,000 individuals and more than 150 organisations through innovative technology, enhancing their proficiency and creativity with AI tools. In addition, training has been delivered to support 16 South African colleges, 45 further education and skills providers, and two local authorities. Debra Gray, CEO & Principal of Hull College, said: “Being named FE College of the Year is a truly wonderful achievement for the college, and it means a great deal to our entire college community. It is a fantastic recognition of all of the hard work that our staff and students have – and continue to – put in. “These awards are a testament to all of the fantastic work that is taking place in our college, as well as the ongoing contribution we make to our local community, and it is fantastic to be recognised in this way. Excellence and high standards sum up the college perfectly, and I am extremely proud to lead such a dedicated senior leadership team, along with our inspirational teachers and support staff.”Leeds ESG specialist appoints new head of partnerships
Leeds-headquartered ESG specialist Ahead Partnership has appointed Andy Clarke as its new head of partnerships as it expands its operations with a national focus.
Andy, an engagement specialist, most recently worked for Manchester Airports Group as head of corporate affairs at Manchester Airport. He brings a decade of experience working for a range of public and private sector organisations including Asda and Transport for the North. He also assists campaigning organisation FreedomToDonate as their head of parliamentary and corporate engagement.
In the newly created role, Andy will assume responsibility for leading business development in new regions and enhancing the impact of Ahead Partnership. His mandate includes the expansion of existing programmes and the establishment of new initiatives, with a particular focus on spearheading Ahead Partnership’s growth into Manchester and the broader North West region.
The appointment comes following the business’s expansion from its Leeds headquarters to now operating programmes across the UK, from Glasgow to Portsmouth.
Stephanie Burras CBE, Chief Executive at Ahead Partnership, said: “We are so excited to welcome Andy to the team. He has a wealth of knowledge and will be pivotal in driving collaborative growth and building strong relationships.
“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, we are looking to strengthen and expand our position to ensure as many employers as possible can benefit from our programmes. We are passionate about the role that employers can play to create strong talent pipelines and enable all young people to understand the opportunities now available to them. Andy’s experience will be a great asset for us as we move forward.”
Andy said: “ESG and social mobility are incredibly important to me and were key factors in my decision to join Ahead Partnership. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the organisation’s continued growth and success, and I look forward to building public-private partnerships that enable young people reach their full potential.”
Multi-million-pound refurbishment project to transform historic Barnsley College building
A multi-million-pound refurbishment project will transform an historic Barnsley College building into a centre of innovation and world-class technical education for South Yorkshire.
The South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (IoT) (SYIoT), one of 21 IoTs nationally, will see one of its key facilities fully renovated to house the SYIoT in the College’s University Centre on Church Street in Barnsley town centre.
The art deco building – formerly Barnsley Mining and Technical College – will be sensitively transformed into a modern, technology-rich IoT to retain and enhance the classic architecture inside and out complemented with the latest innovations in construction and technology.
Funding for the project is a combination of Department for Education (DfE) regional investment, and College capital funds. The College was also successful with a Salix decarbonisation capital bid for sustainability upgrades throughout the building – which will become one of its most sustainable campuses once works are complete.
Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive Officer David Akeroyd said: “This is a real landmark moment for higher-level education in Barnsley and the wider region, and we’re pleased to get contracts signed and now be able to deliver on our vision.
“The building work is set to start in earnest in May. What’s particularly important to us is that we retain our original concept of completely transforming the inside of the building into a future-focused learning environment for our Level 4 and Level 5 technical provision.
“This is an exciting time for the College and all our partners involved in the South Yorkshire IoT – as we look ahead to a future in which our hard work has led to increased opportunities for retraining and upskilling, more accessible and higher-quality jobs, and a productive workforce who are skilled in the right areas.
“It’s particularly special for us that this important IoT site will be right here in the centre of Barnsley. This is really strong proof that our College continues to go from strength to strength as an educational standard-bearer for the region.”
Originally the Barnsley Mining and Technical College, the Church Street building cost a total of £110,012 to build and furnish in 1932. It has had various uses but has maintained an educational focus throughout its lifespan – coming full circle as the new building will house higher level technical qualifications in engineering, construction and IT/digital subjects.
The heart of the project is the new atrium, and a combination of learning resource and study zones set over three new mezzanine floors with a new glazed roof above and a modern café and breakout area at ground floor level.
GF Tomlinson have officially been appointed as the main contractor for the project and construction will commence in May. The College is currently carrying out preparation works ahead of the firm’s arrival on site. Consultants AECOM have been retained as a key partner to support the College’s Major Projects Team as lead Technical Advisers through the construction phase.
Adrian Grocock, Managing Director at GF Tomlinson, added: “We are delighted to be appointed as the main contractor on the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (IoT) (SYIoT).
“This state-of-the-art facility will provide students at Barnsley College with a first-class, modern learning environment, whilst breathing new life into a well-known historical building in the heart of the town.
“Through our collaboration with the Client team, we look forward to turning Barnsley College’s vision into reality, transforming the site into one of their most sustainable campuses and delivering a world class technical education centre the whole region can be proud of.”
Yorkshire recycling company fined £1.2m after worker hit by a wagon
A Yorkshire metals recycling company has been fined £1.2m after a worker was injured after being struck by a wagon at a processing site.
On 10 August 2020 an employee of CF Booth Limited was walking across the site yard in Rotherham when he was struck by a moving 32-tonne skip wagon. The man was not wearing his hi-vis jacket and did not see the wagon approaching.
The wagon driver did not see the employee prior to the collision due to concentrating on manoeuvring the vehicle around some low-level skips which had been placed on the corner near where the employee was crossing the yard.
Following the incident, the man sustained a fractured skull and also fractured his collar bone in two places but has since made a full recovery.
A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that at the time of the incident the site was not organised in such a way that pedestrians and vehicles could circulate in a safe manner. A suitable and sufficient workplace transport risk assessment was not in place for the segregation of vehicles and pedestrians. The company had failed to take steps to properly assess the risks posed by the movement of vehicles and pedestrians. The incident could have been prevented by adequately assessing the risks and implementing appropriate control measures such as physical barriers and crossing points.
At Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on April 25 CF Booth Limited of Clarence Metal Works, Armer St, Rotherham, pleaded guilty of breaching Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. They were fined £1.2million and ordered to pay costs of £5,694.85.
After the hearing, HSE inspector Kirstie Durrans said: “If CF Booth Limited had assessed the risks and ensured vehicles and pedestrians could circulate in a safe manner, this incident could have easily been avoided.
“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”
This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyers Karen Park and Kate Harney, and supported by paralegal officer Rebecca Forman.
Asbestos service provider acquires Leeds consultant
BGF-backed Environmental Essentials has completed its third acquisition, as its buy-and-build growth strategy continues at pace.
The company, the asbestos service providers, has acquired Callidus Health & Safety Ltd for an undisclosed sum, providing a significant route into untapped markets, including health and safety and asset management. The deal follows the acquisitions of Adams Environmental and Quality Environmental Services Ltd.
Leeds-based Callidus is a consultant in health and safety, project management, asset management, environmental services and training. Employing 18 people, the company works across education, retail, healthcare, and infrastructure, with clients including Marks & Spencer, the University of Leicester and NHS Lothian.
As part of the deal, Managing Director Steve Allcoat and his team of consultants will remain with the business, bringing a wealth of health and safety-related expertise to Environmental Essentials.
James Riley, executive director and co-founder of Environmental Essentials, said: “The acquisition of Callidus makes perfect sense for Environmental Essentials, adding health and safety capabilities to our existing services of water hygiene, air hygiene, and asbestos management. As major areas of compliance, they are all highly complementary from a business perspective and create a compelling proposition.”
Alex Sleeth, executive chairman at Environmental Essentials, added: “By incorporating the wealth of expertise and capabilities of Callidus into our business, it allows us to diversify our offering and, with it, gain national coverage.
“Not only does it allow us to cross-sell our existing services into new and untapped markets, while providing our workforce with a fantastic opportunity to upskill in the area of health and safety, but it also strengthens our compliance proposition.”
In total, BGF has invested £5.6 million in Environmental Essentials, as it looks to cement its position across the UK as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for key compliance services, including asbestos management, water hygiene and fire risk management.
BGF investor, Jon Earl, added: “The acquisition of Callidus is yet another demonstration of the team’s ambition and desire to build a company that has the strength and depth, in personnel, services and technological capabilities, to meet the growing needs of customers across the compliance landscape.”
Beswicks Legal and Dains Accountants advised Environmental Essentials on the acquisition. DJP Legal advised Callidus.
Lincolnshire’s Lord Lieutenant views steelmaking at Scunthorpe
Lincolnshire’s Lord Lieutenant Toby Dennis has visited British Steel for a full-day tour to see how the plant produces rails and wire rod for a host of applications.
A full day’s schedule culminated in a formal presentation about British Steel, followed by an open floor Q&A which focused on the manufacturer’s proposed £1.25-billion transformation – its biggest in more than a century of steelmaking.
The Lord Lieutenant said: “It was a fairly obvious choice really to visit British Steel. We have only one annual meeting with all of the Lieutenants where we try to get around the county to see different aspects of what is active in the county of Lincolnshire. We felt it would be good to come to Scunthorpe and come to British Steel to see how the modern way of making steel is progressing.
“We have been very well guided through the initial process of where the raw material are required and what is needed to make steel, first impressions for me are the gigantic size of the site, it is quite amazing. “
An exchange of gifts closed off the day, with Lord Lieutenant Toby Dennis presenting British Steel Chairman Li Huiming with a specially frame picture of King Charles III.
Approval granted for Harrogate College’s campus redevelopment
Harrogate College’s £22 million redevelopment has gained approval.
Replacing its main building, the scheme will upgrade the campus with an electric vehicle workshop, mock hospital ward, and a renewable energy technology hub.
The main college building will be demolished and replaced with a new teaching block and a workshop building.
Principal of Harrogate College, Danny Wild, said: “Gaining confirmation that we can proceed is great news for the college, the town and the county.
“This £22 million redevelopment will enable us to upgrade our campus to enhance our industry-standard training facilities, including an electric vehicle workshop, mock hospital ward, and a renewable energy technology hub.
“It will help us provide even more targeted support for local employers by tailoring our training to produce the skilled workers they need to plug gaps and prosper.
“The main building phase of our project is set to be completed for the 2025-26 academic year and we look forward to welcoming students, parents and guests into our new campus. “To minimise any impact in the local area we are instructing staff not to drive to college but to switch to public transport instead, and we will be covering the parking costs of all colleagues who do so. We will also be employing staff to patrol the local area to ensure things go smoothly, and disruption is kept to a minimum, during the construction.“We’ll be formalising those details, and other arrangements including those for our contractors, as part of the conditions attached to the planning permission.”
Spencer Group reaches achieves half its annual charity fundraising target in just three months
Employees of engineering specialist Spencer Group have raised more than half of the company’s £5,000 charity fundraising target in just three months.
Fundraising efforts this year have been accelerated by the introduction of dedicated volunteer “Charity Champions” across the Hull-based business, who have responsibility for generating ideas and organising new activities and events.
Teenage Cancer Trust, which offers specialist care and support for young sufferers of cancer and their loved ones, was nominated for support by a staff member who witnessed first-hand the care it provided for his friend’s son, including care at its dedicated wards at Castle Hill Hospital, in Cottingham.
Heather Bowen, Senior Relationship Manager at the charity, delivered a series of talks to explain what it does to support teenagers diagnosed with cancer, their family and friends. Staff working on sites across the UK were able also to access the talks via video link.
Spencer Group has now arranged for Heather to visit Ron Dearing University Technical College to speak to students. The business is a Founding Partner of the school, from which it has recruited 50 apprentices in just five years.
Charity Champion Emily Marshall, Administrative Assistant at the group, said: “I’m really enjoying helping raise funds for Teenage Cancer Trust. The people affected are a similar age to me, so it’s given me a different perspective on life.
“It’s been great to meet Heather and hear about the work they do to support not only the teenagers, but their families as well. Since the symptoms are not always obvious, knowing more about the charity’s work and the symptoms to watch out for has helped us raise awareness.”
HR Director Yvonne Moir said: “It’s really important for us, as a business, to engage with the communities where we work and to raise money for good causes that are important to our staff. We always try to have a positive impact, and its gives colleagues the opportunity to give something back, whilst having a bit of fun at the same time.
“Teenage Cancer Trust does incredible work, and the team have done a wonderful job so far to raise so much money for this important charity. This is just the start; however, and we have so much more planned.”
Fundraising activities and events held this year that have already helped raise more than £3,000 include bake sales and an Easter raffle.
Spencer Group will be holding sponsored walks, a darts tournament, pub quiz night, ale trail and Wimbledon-themed table tennis competition throughout the year. Staff are also taking part in a “Total Warrior” obstacle course to raise money.
In addition, watercolour paintings by talented artist Lucy Grierson, Spencer Group’s Systems Director, will be presented in a gallery and auctioned off.
Spencer Group’s regular charity fundraising contributed to it being named the Best Place to Work at the 10th annual HullBID Awards earlier this year.
Fancy that: Highland Carbon rallies round to boost Tickhill community
Carbon credit supplier Highland Carbon is planning a fancy dress sponsored walk-cum treasure hunt in the village of Tickhill.
It’s to be called ‘Tickhill Tipple’, and is the brainchild of MD Richard Clarke, who was inspired to support his community having met the Trustees of beneficiary charity Tickhill Community Connections: Nicola Saunders, Paula Thomas, Jo Rowland, and Vicki Beevers.
He says: “Whilst fancy dress is not required, it may add to the fun if you wish to dress up. Consider wearing fancy dress or simply an eccentric hat, wig, comedy gasses or feather boa! Each team is welcome to wear a sash with their team’s name on it if they wish.”
There are four pubs, a wine bar and Cricket Club along the route, and with treasure hunt answers to be found both indoors and in the village.
Richard added: “This is a family friendly event and drinking alcohol is not required. Both alcohol and non-alcohol options will be available in each venue. And you can choose not to have a drink at all in any given venue. There will be a barbecue set up at the Scarbrough Arms for the participants.”
The starting time for the walk is flexible on June 22nd. “That said, we suggest starting around 5pm. You can start wherever you like along the route. In fact, we prefer this to avoid one large crowd in any given pub at a time.”
The revenue from the BBQ will support the Tickhill Lions. The revenue from the entry fees will support Tickhill Community Connections. This local charity hosts social activities for people living in isolation. This is a volunteer run charity, so 100 of the proceeds will support its work!
High-tech Lincolnshire agricultural initiatives win financial backing from Government
Two high-tech agricultural businesses in Lincolnshire have been offered funding from a national £7.5 million pot to support innovation and growth.
An automated blueberry harvesting project led by Eyre Trailers in Coningsby, in partnership with the University of Lincoln, and a daffodil harvesting scheme at C Wright and Son in Gedney have each been offered around £300,000 as a share of £1.84m awarded to 12 projects across the east of England.
The money has come from the new Launchpads programme managed by Innovate UK which offers small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grants from £25,000 to £300,000 for R&D and innovation projects that focus on agrifood.
The Eastern England Launchpad is being supported by the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils.
Ten other successful projects across the area include novel biological defences against aphids, enhancing the fibre content of food and drink products, enhancements in crop breeding, and creating new types of plant-based food packaging.
The objective of the Eyre Trailers automated blueberry harvesting project, which stands to secure £299,693, is to develop and demonstrate a fully automatic machine for harvesting blueberries, one of the UK’s most important soft fruit crops.
The proposed machine will be fully automatic and will feature new berry removal and bush gripper systems. It will be designed to remove berries from the bush by the use of innovative shaking systems and should be available for widescale deployment by UK growers next year.
Blueberries are now the second largest soft fruit sold in the UK, with the industry expanding to meet demand, but still only has a 7% share of the market.
“We’re very privileged to have been offered the grant and to be working with the University of Lincoln, and we’re looking forward to bringing the project to fruition,” said Bob Eyre from Eyre Trailers. “Without this grant it would be difficult to bring this product to market, so we’re really grateful.
“Blueberry harvesting is very labour-intensive as growers are completely reliant on hand-picking. Finding the workers to do it is difficult and expensive, so everybody is looking to reduce the labour costs and make the job more viable. Currently lots of fruit is left unpicked because the growers can’t find the labour for the harvest.
“By the end of the project we aim to be manufacturing a machine that’s fit for purpose and that satisfies the blueberry growers. It will be quite a big growth area for us and it could really rejuvenate our business.”
The daffodil harvesting project, which has been offered £299,985, is being led by Autopickr in Cambridge with Lincolnshire grower C Wright & Son as a partner.
Horticulture has traditionally offered growers high incomes from small areas of land, but the total land area used for horticulture has declined by 15% since 2020.
To combat shortages of labour and high labour costs the project will develop a multi-functional robotic platform capable of horticultural tasks that cannot be automated using simple machines like tractors or harvesters.
An asparagus harvester has already been developed and will launch in the next three years, and growers have highlighted the fact that flower production, specifically daffodils, is another promising area in which to develop robotic capabilities.
The daffodil picker will feature a sophisticated robotic arm, a platform weighing less than 45kg, and an artificial vision system to recognise picked flowers for the arm to collect and transport.
Success in this project will lower labour costs for English growers and reduce barriers to the growth of daffodil production, which is a lucrative export market for growers.
“We are very pleased to have received funding for this project,” said Adam Cunnington from C Wright & Son. “Labour is getting hard to come by and any method of automating our harvest has to be the way forward. We have every faith in the project delivering automation to a much needed harvest operation.”
Suicide prevention charity launches The Workplace Pledge to save lives
National suicide prevention charity The Baton of Hope will launch The Workplace Pledge at its first national conference later this month, aiming to mobilise businesses, organisations and individuals across the UK to take action.
The organisation, whose aim is to facilitate a zero-suicide society, says The Workplace Pledge is a comprehensive and practical guide for leaders and HR professionals about what organisations can and should be doing to help prevent death by suicide.Each year more than 6,000 people across the UK take their own lives – one person every 90 minutes. It is the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK. The World Health Organisation estimates that 135 people are affected by each death. That means more than 800,000 people every year in the UK are affected by suicide.
The Baton of Hope founder Mike McCarthy, who tragically lost his son Ross to suicide in 2021 said: “We cannot turn a blind eye to the national catastrophe of suicide any longer. If a similar death toll were caused by any other physical illness, it would rightly trigger a national outcry.
“Unlike the openness surrounding conditions such as cancer or heart disease, ‘admitting’ to thoughts of suicide is often met with shame and stigma. While physical ailments are accepted without question as valid reasons for time off work, mental health struggles are still concealed behind fabricated stories.
“While organisations and individuals are overwhelmingly keen to help address this complicated issue, they are often hesitant to act for fear of making things worse. The Workplace Pledge gives organisations a toolkit to enable them to take action.
“Suicide IS preventable and every one of us is capable of generating hope.”
The Workplace Pledge offers a framework to guide organisations toward comprehensive suicide prevention. This involves raising awareness, providing support resources, and prioritising mental wellbeing within the workplace.
It’s six key principles are:
- Prioritise suicide awareness, prevention, and support in the workplace.
- Provide clear messaging on suicide in communications and training.
- Offer suicide prevention resources and early intervention support.
- Champion those with lived experience of mental health challenges.
- Promote crisis services and support resources.
- Actively spread the message of the pledge to amplify its impact.
Leeds-based recruiter secures £45m invoice facility with Metro Bank
Leeds-based specialist recruitment business Mach Recruitment has agreed a £45m invoice finance facility with Metro Bank.
As a specialist recruitment business working in the ecommerce and food sectors, Mach Recruitment will use the financing to support its acquisition ambitions and continued desire to grow and diversify. The invoice finance package from Metro Bank will provide the additional funding it needs to meet the long-term needs of this entrepreneurial and market-leading business.
Mach Recruitment was advised by Mazars Debt Advisory. Metro Bank was advised by European Valuation and Shoosmiths.
Tom Zyzak, Chief Executive Officer at Mach Recruitment, said: “These are exciting times for the business and we greatly appreciate the professionalism and approach of the Metro Bank team to meet our requirements and put the facility in place. We believe we have found the right financiers and partners to help Mach drive our already successful business further forward and allow us to be more dynamic and opportunistic in our marketplace.”
Alan Austin, Head of Asset Based Lending at Metro Bank added: “We were delighted to work with the team at Mach and provide them with a bespoke and tailored facility to meet their specific needs, both now and in the future. We look forward to a long and successful partnership, and Mach can rest assured knowing they have a committed and supportive partner to match their aspirations.”
High street records fifth month of negative in-store sales
In-store sales fell by -1.7% in April, which is the fifth consecutive month of negative results, according to new data from BDO’s High Street Sales Tracker.
BDO’s data, which records sales across discretionary spend categories, highlighted that while overall sales, combining both online and in-store, remained flat at +0.4% in April, it was the performance of high street stores which brought the overall figure down.
This drop is primarily due to a significant fall in sales in the fashion sector, with in-stores sales down -8.3% compared to April 2023.
The fashion sector’s poor performance means that it has now recorded eight consecutive months of negative in-store sales.
The homewares sector also saw a negative in-store result, with sales down -1.5%. However, online sales provided a small boost, increasing +8.2% in April, bringing the homewares overall total to +1.8% year on year.
The lifestyle sector was the only category to record positive in-store and non-store sales figures last month, also recording +1.8% increase compared to 2023. In-store sales grew by +3.4% whilst non-store increased by +5.8%.
Sophie Michael, head of Retail and Wholesale at BDO, said: “This is yet another disappointing set of results for the retail sector. While an increase in online sales may offer a glimmer of hope, it’s clear that consumers are simply not spending their spare cash on the high street.
“The fashion sector will be particularly concerned by such a poor sales performance in the run up to summer. Unpredictable and unseasonably cold weather may have dampened the mood of shoppers who would usually be investing in their spring and summer wardrobe.”
Sophie continued: “The competition for the consumer purse has never been fiercer. With us recording a seventh consecutive month of negative or <1% growth for discretionary spend categories, retailers should be realistic in thinking this may not be a temporary trend.
“Those who want to succeed must acknowledge that the competition is not just with other retailers but with the hospitality, leisure and travel sectors, with many choosing ‘experiences’ over products. If sales continue to fall, it may mean we see more consolidation in the sector, more empty stores, and a real risk to a crucial part of the UK economy.”
HSE decision to end farm safety inspections branded as ‘deeply troubling’
Speaking for the first time as chair of the Farm Safety Partnership, NFU Deputy President David Exwood warned that it was wrong to compromise on the safety of our farmers, farm workers, or those living on or visiting farms.
He said: “The decision to halt inspections is deeply troubling and we urge the government and HSE to reconsider and continue to work collaboratively with farmers to help ensure they are compliant. We simply must prioritise the wellbeing of the nation’s farmers and growers.”
The HSE is switching to a focus on occupational health issues rather than preventative general health and safety inspections. It will continue to provide investigative inspections in response to serious incidents such as on-farm accidents or deaths.
The HSE advised that despite efforts over several decades, there has not been a significant reduction in the fatality rate for agriculture. HSE advised the reduction in actual numbers of fatal injuries have been attributed to a reduction in the numbers working in the industry since the 1980s.
Mr Exwood said the lack of public awareness surrounding this decision raised serious questions about HSE’s prioritisation of safety within the farming sector. “While the HSE assures us that investigative inspections will continue in response to serious incidents, the lack of all regular inspections, training and events leaves a notable gap in proactive and preventative safety measures that could prevent accidents and save lives,” he said.
“Agriculture has one of the highest rates of fatalities and serious injuries in any workplace and to help bring this number down, as a sector we need to work on changing the culture of farm safety. This decision by HSE completely goes against that goal.
“We are calling on Defra and the Department for Work and Pensions to recognise the critical safety implications of this decision, urgently review the potential impacts and establish a clear plan to prioritise the safety of those in the sector.
“The FSP is committed to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of agricultural workers. We will be engaging in conversations with the government and the wider industry to support the development and implementation of policies and practices that safeguard the livelihoods of those working in agriculture.”
Siemens completes University of York solar farm
Siemens has completed work on a 200kWp solar farm at the University of York’s new Institute for Safe Autonomy, as part of £1.5 million research project.
Funded through the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund, the project will enhance the Institute’s research capabilities to develop and test robots and other autonomous systems for the inspection and maintenance of solar arrays.
The solar farm will create a ‘living lab’ for the Institute to give insight to landowners and operators of solar farms on how best to integrate robotic technology in the field. It will also enable the Institute to become net zero for energy by 2025, generating power for more than 80 per cent of the building’s 600kWh expected daily use.
Siemens’ team supported through consultancy services helping to design, commission and optimise the solar arrays for the robotic technology being used as part of the institute’s research in addition to setting up a data collection system for the panels which will underpin research projects at the Institute.
The farm, which spans more than 1400 square metres, consists of a range of different panel configurations including static ground installations and a sun-tracking array. Some solar panels are also mounted onto the side of the Institute’s building and its rooftop as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) to achieve wide range of installation positions.
It is one of nine projects that are set to improve environmental sustainability, thanks to almost £19 million of funding from UKRPIF.
Andrew Smyth, Head of Energy Performance Services at Siemens, said: “Through the solar farm the University will gain valuable insights to enhance the use of robotic technology, as we continue to look to integrate it into our everyday lives.
“We are seeing this technology deliver meaningful change across a range of industries and it will form a key pillar of our Transform 2024 conference as we bring together industry leaders to debate these key issues.”
Professor Miles Elsden, Director of the Institute for Safe Autonomy, added: “Robotics, autonomous systems and AI have the potential to transform the way we live, travel and work in the future. Integrating them with the production of renewable energy will ultimately play a key role in the journey towards net zero.
“This innovative research project marks an important milestone for the Institute since we opened earlier this year and reaffirms our commitment as a university to sourcing sustainable energy.”
The solar arrays were installed by LYNX Sustainable Solutions Ltd. The Institute for Safe Autonomy is a new initiative at the University of York which takes a safety critical approach to the design, development and testing of robotics and connected autonomous systems. The purpose-built facility was completed in summer 2022 and provides collaborative work and test spaces for more than 100 researchers across a variety of disciplines.
Council successful in purchase of former B&M site as part of major transformation plans
Boston Borough Council have been successful in purchasing the former B&M site at the heart of the proposed Rosegarth Square development.
This strategic move empowers the Council to move forward with development proposals and bring forward the vision for the area utilising £14.8 million of Levelling Up funding.
The B&M store ceased operating a number of years ago and since then, the site has been earmarked for redevelopment. The area is an important part of the Council’s overall aspirations for the town centre regeneration.
Leader of Boston Borough Council, Cllr Anne Dorrian, said: “Improving the town centre is one of our top priorities and we are determined to push ahead to ensure our vision becomes a reality.
“Developing this large, derelict building is yet another piece in that transformation jigsaw. I am really pleased that we have been able to utilise government grant funding to purchase the former B&M site, and we have exciting ideas to ensure that the site makes a positive contribution to our town.”
Work begins on redevelopment of arts centre in Bradford
Work has started on the redevelopment of Kala Sangam’s Grade II Listed arts centre, with Simpson having been appointed as main contractor.
The project will see the creation of a new theatre, five new dance studios, a new central staircase and a permanent home for volunteer-led community radio station Bradford Community Broadcasting (BCB).
The introduction of a new entrance, two new lifts and a dedicated Changing Places facility will ensure the building is fully accessible for the first time in its 140-year history. The building is scheduled to reopen as Bradford Arts Centre in Summer 2025, as a landmark moment in Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture.
York-based Simpson has extensive experience working on the redevelopment of heritage buildings and arts venues, with recent projects including York Art Gallery, Hull Maritime Museum and Salford Cathedral.
Professional services company Turner & Townsend has also been appointed to the project as Capital Project Manager. Specialising in major programmes and programme management, Turner & Townsend has significant experience supporting the successful delivery of cultural and heritage capital projects around the world, with examples in the UK including the redevelopments of York Guildhall and Battersea Power Station.
Turner & Townsend join a Capital Design Team led by Principal Architects and Contract Administrators Halliday Clark Architects, who has been developing the project with Kala Sangam since its inception in 2018.
Also staying with the project are Quantity Surveyors DKP Consulting, Mechanical and Electrical specialists BWB Consulting, and Structural Engineers SGM Structural Design Ltd.
Jas Athwal DL, Chair of Kala Sangam, said: “After many years of planning, we are delighted that work has finally started to transform our home at St Peter’s House into a fully accessible space, ready to welcome artists, audiences, our local communities and businesses in 2025 as Bradford Arts Centre.
“I would like to thank our funders – the Department of Culture Media and Sport and Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Garfield Weston Foundation and Bradford Metropolitan District Council – for supporting the redevelopment.
“Bradford is desperately in need of more space to create and enjoy arts and culture, and this redevelopment will ensure our building is a more open, welcoming and inclusive venue that the whole district can enjoy.”
Alex Croft, Creative Director of Kala Sangam, said: “I’m delighted that we have appointed Simpson Limited as Main Contractors for the redevelopment. Right from our first meeting, we’ve seen the passion, dedication and professionalism that they bring to their projects – it feels like we couldn’t have placed this critical project in safer hands.
“It has also been brilliant to welcome Turner & Townsend onto the team. Their support and hard work have been critical in getting the project to this exciting stage and we’re all looking forward to working with them, and drawing on their extensive experience, throughout the build.”
Andy Gatenby from Simpson said: “Simpson are excited and honoured to be working with the client Kala Sangam on the redevelopment of their cultural hub into the newly named Bradford Arts Centre.
“The project which aims to extensively reconfigure and upgrade the existing buildings facilities, will continue to be a great asset to the community. This is an exciting time for the city ahead of Bradford being the City of Culture for 2025 and one that Simpson are proud to be a part of.”
During the redevelopment, Kala Sangam will be based at Bank House in central Bradford. This temporary home houses two studio spaces – allowing the company to continue its critical support for artists in the run up to Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture – and a range of spaces available to hire for meetings, events and conferences.
Whilst Kala Sangam’s theatre space is closed, the company is taking its performances on tour, with events at venues and non-traditional spaces across the district.
Grant to help create Hull city centre office space
Hull’s Gosschalks’ building will undergo significant refurbishment to create city centre office space and employment opportunities thanks to support from Levelling Up Funding (LUF).
Sixtyone QG Limited has been awarded £381,807 as part of its large-scale project in the city centre at 61 Dock Street.
The grant award has come from Hull City Council’s government LUF and is to support the refurbishment of the building to upgrade, repair and refurbish offices, whilst also releasing surplus space for third party use.
Works also include improving the building’s energy efficiency by replacing gas heating systems with electric.
This grant award will help to bring back into use 355 sq m of vacant floor space, whilst it is also expected to create 34 jobs through existing and incoming tenants.
The total cost of the project is estimate at £1,909,039, meaning over £1.5m of private capital will be invested in Hull city centre.
Garry Taylor, assistant director for major projects, culture and place at the council, said: “City centre office space is much sought after in Hull and this project will help to provide extra provision.
“I am delighted that the council has been able to support the applicant to make this a possibility through LUF.”
University of Lincoln graduate lands job supporting farmers
Agrovista has appointed Leah Williamson as rural consultant and agronomist within its northern regional team to help farmers make the most of new income opportunities as England’s agricultural policy transition gathers pace.
Leah currently offers guidance on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and nutrient management planning, and will also provide advice on Countryside Stewardship and capital grant work as demand builds.
After growing up on the family arable farm near Lincoln, where she helped out and developed a sound grounding in her practical farming skills, Leah obtained an HND at Bishop Burton College followed by a foundation degree in agriculture at the University of Lincoln.
Leah, who is BASIS and FACTS qualified, said: “Most of my work is supporting agronomists and their farmer customers to get the best from these schemes,” says Leah, who now lives on her partner’s dairy farm in Cumbria.
“Working closely with the agronomy team makes sense, as they are already an integral part of a farming business and know what is likely to work best for their customers.
“SFI in particular can fit very well with practical farming if it is implemented correctly; Agrovista’s aim is to keep as much land as possible in production while enabling farmers to make best use of SFI options.
“That has to be the right approach, and I’m really looking forward to helping farmers make use of what’s on offer and to help them to farm as efficiently as possible to help offset the loss of BPS payments.”
Sheffield United Women unite with Autoglass to give women a stronger voice in male-dominated industries
Autoglass and Sheffield United Women have joined forces at a joint Partnership Day to promote and support women in male-dominated industries.
The Partnership Day saw technicians at Autoglass and Sheffield United Women’s team players meet and share experiences at the Autoglass HQ in Bedford.
The Sheffield United players got a tutorial in windscreen repair and replacement from technicians at Autoglass, followed by a series of football games led by the Sheffield United players. Autoglass staff also got involved in a series of competitions and games held throughout the day.
Ian Rowlands, Commercial Director at Autoglass, said: “Our partnership with the Sheffield United Women’s team builds off our ambition to create a more diverse and equitable business. Gender diversity has been a priority for us not only because it’s the right thing to do, but it also makes business sense – it ensures we are reflective of our customer base and provides us with a balanced approach to business decisions.
“We draw parallels with the Sheffield United Women’s team as we look to create more gender balance and shift mindsets within our industries. The partnership gives us a fantastic opportunity to share and learn from each other as we continue working hard towards more inclusive workplaces.”
Paul Reeves, Head of Commercial at Sheffield Utd FC, said: “It was a fantastic partnership event to highlight the synergy between the football club and Autoglass. Our shared commitment of championing equality in male-dominated industries was highlighted throughout a truly inspiring day, packed with lots of fun and engaging activities. We look forward to many more opportunities to further foster our mutual ambition and growth between our two organisations.”
