Contractors prepare for transformation of Grimsby’s Freshney Place
Contractors appointed to transform Grimsby’s Freshney Place are preparing to carry out detailed examination surveys ahead of the major scheme starting next year.
A spokesperson from Morgan Sindall said: “This is an extremely exciting scheme, which is set to transform this western end of Freshney Place in terms of the diversity of the offer and the look and feel of the whole area.
“As we prepare for the main works to begin, we do need to do all the necessary groundwork and we appreciate this may cause slight disruption for both shoppers and traders. We do apologise for that, and we will endeavour to keep this to a minimum.”
Supported by a £20m LUF (Levelling Up Fund) grant award, the Freshney Place Market Hall and Leisure Scheme will create a modern and vibrant new Market Hall in the old BHS building, a new five-screen cinema operated by Parkway Cinema, more space for eateries and leisure, and a purpose-built community space.
From Tuesday 17 October to Friday 10 November the shopping centre’s Flottergate entrance will be closed along with one of the indoor Top Town Market entrances on the main Flottergate mall. The other three market entrances – including the two external ones next to Devonshire House and on Victoria Street – will be open as normal on market days – Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Freshney Place is otherwise unaffected, with just some slight diversions around Flottergate. Signs will direct shoppers.
Millions invested in capital and regenerative projects for Bradford’s cultural sector ahead of UK City of Culture
Bradford 2025 has announced that 21 organisations in the Bradford district have been confirmed to receive capital grants from the £3m Cultural Capital Fund.
The successful organisations are receiving funding to deliver projects that will increase the cultural infrastructure and enable more people – Bradford residents and visitors, to access and participate in cultural activities during 2025 and beyond.
The projects, focusing on the regeneration of existing community and cultural spaces, as well as the introduction of new and sustainable extensions to community organisations, will provide a range of physical environments for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage and interact with cultural activities.
Made possible thanks to funding from City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, the Cultural Capital Fund will support a wide range of regenerative projects across the district, such as:
- £300,000 for Greensville Trust
- £280,000 for African Caribbean Achievement Project
- £50,000 for Bloomin’ Buds
- £10,000 for Mind The Gap
- £10,000 for Ilkley Playhouse
- To provide high quality, long-lasting venues and locations for arts and cultural activities that will drive additional footfall into the District’s key towns and city centre
- To increase visitor numbers into Bradford District
- To create new jobs in the Art/Culture sector within Bradford District
Expo helps Doncaster tradespeople promote themselves to potential buyers
Tradespeople have been given the chance to promote themselves to potential customers at an event in Doncaster.
Jointly organised by Doncaster Chamber and Business Doncaster, the “Building Your Network” supply chain expo allowed SMEs in various trades — ranging from plastering to joining, bricklaying, gardening and decorating — to get themselves in front of potential buyers and to forge meaningful relationships that will help them prosper into the future. Meanwhile, those larger businesses had a valuable opportunity to scope out all of the potential collaborators on their doorstep in South Yorkshire.
More than 60 Doncaster-based suppliers put on exhibition stands, while major companies like IMYCO Construction, Gleeson Homes and Fenwood Estates all had a presence there as well. In addition to this, there were also a number of insightful masterclasses taking place throughout the day, delving into pertinent themes like how SMEs can make compelling bids for public-sector contracts, and the importance of demonstrating one’s Net-Zero credentials.
Dan Fell, Chief Exec of Doncaster Chamber, said: “We have a truly thriving construction industry in Doncaster and, as representatives and champions of that community, we are determined to help it unlock its full potential.
“This event was created with that very goal in mind and it was heartening to walk the expo floor and see just how diverse and healthy the sector here really is. Indeed, there were so many fantastic businesses on show representing a wide range of niche specialities, proving that, no matter what a prospective buyer might be looking for, they will be spoilt for choice when searching for suppliers and partners here in Doncaster.
“I hope that this event has opened the eyes of larger companies to the benefits of localising their supply chains. Keeping spend within our community is a real win-win for all parties involved and ultimately serves to bolster our economy.”
The “Building Your Network” supply chain expo was sponsored by Polypipe Building Products, whose PR & Digital Marketing Executive Maria McDonald said: “We were pleased to see so many in attendance and to see how many visitors were engaging with the companies exhibiting. It really solidified what we already knew; Doncaster has a thriving construction industry and is a fantastic place to do business. Thank you to Doncaster Chamber and Business Doncaster for hosting the event and to all those who attended.”
York expansion for Carter Towler
Carter Towler, the independent chartered surveyors and property management company, is opening a new office at Tower House, Fishergate, York which will be headed up by surveyor Miles Lawrence.
Miles said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Carter Towler, having been in the property business for over 30 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside the company many many times and have greatly admired their strength in depth.
“I will continue to manage my existing portfolio of loyal clients from across the York area as well as getting involved with new clients and projects regionwide. With my previous company Lawrence Hannah I worked with clients in the office, retail, industrial, leisure and education sectors assisting with all aspects of commercial property agency, particularly with the acquisition and disposal of development, investment, retail and business space.”
Carter Towler’s Managing Director, Ian Greenwood added: “We are extremely pleased that Miles is joining us and will be managing our York office. He is very experienced and has developed an excellent reputation. There is a really good strategic fit between Miles and Carter Towler, and together we are looking forward to further developing Carter Towler’s presence in York.”
Port of Grimsby becomes London for new Netflix drama
The Port of Grimsby has been transformed into London to feature in the Netflix drama Bodies, a part sci-fi, part murder mystery series.
It’s part of a drive by ABP to generate an income stream from film and television work, and saw the port taken over by the production for a month as the location was transformed in to 1940s London, including the transformation of one building into Aldgate East tube station. Other buildings were transformed into period shops and houses.
Simon Bird, Regional Director of the Humber said: “It’s great to see our Port of Grimsby being used by film and television production companies. The historic quarter is attracting a lot of interest from location managers and producers who like the authenticity and character of the place. We hope this is the start of a new venture for the area.”
The port over the years has already hosted many productions from an episode of Wheeler Dealers last year when Mike Brewer and Elvis toured round in a renovated Ford Transit van to the film Three Day Millionaire about a group of fishermen who stage a robbery; to Atonement when it featured as a French town.
Greg Lacey, Head of Property (Humber) added: “Having a rich and diverse mix of historic buildings is proving popular with film makers. It’s becoming the catalyst to make this area viable and money from these productions can be put back into the buildings to make them more appealing.
“We know from the feedback we receive there is a demand in this area for period buildings and large space, as London and the south east has become overpriced, and companies are looking to the north. The film and TV industry is highly diverse with £6.3 billion spent on production last year, we only expect demand to continue to grow.”
The eight-part series follows four detectives across different time periods all trying to solve the same murder.
The limited eight-part series Bodies airs on Netflix next Thursday, and the Humber team will be attending FOCUS at the Design Centre, London in December to promote Grimsby’s Kasbah Film Quarter to television and film companies.
Demolition of six high-rise buildings in Leeds to be agreed
Members of Leeds City Council’s executive board are set to approve plans to rehouse residents and demolish six high rise buildings, across Leeds.
The six tower blocks, initially constructed in the 1960’s, have exceeded their original design life, and would require significant investment for them to be brought up to an appropriate standard to have a future, as part of the council’s housing estate.
Although the blocks remain safe at present, in light of financial pressures and the significant cost of delivering remedial work, the decision to demolish the six sites is set to be approved.
The future use and development of the sites will be subject to further review, with the ambition to facilitate the delivery of good quality affordable housing on the sites.
Extensive consultation has already taken place with residents in Bailey Towers, Brookland Towers and Ramshead Heights in Seacroft, Leafield Towers in Moortown, and Raynville Court and Raynville Grange in Armley, who will be fully supported through the rehousing process.
To enable council tenants to find new homes, the council’s executive board is set to agree to prioritise their housing applications, so that they are successfully rehoused into suitable long-term housing. Tenants who have lived in their homes for 12 months or more will also qualify for compensation.
Councillor Jess Lennox, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing, said: “The demolition of the tower blocks is an important step towards future proofing the council’s housing stock, ensuring that we meet our commitment to delivering good quality and affordable homes for residents.
“However, we understand the impact that this will have on our residents across the sites, and I would like to extend my thanks for their constructive engagement with the council so far.
“We’ve undertaken extensive and proactive consultation with all of our impacted residents and will continue to do so as we are absolutely committed to ensuring any disruption is minimal. We will continue to ensure that all residents are supported through the rehousing process, to see that they are successfully rehoused into homes that suit them for the long term.”
South Yorkshire green energy project sold
A green energy project in South Yorkshire which includes one of the largest battery storage systems in the world is under new ownership.
Renewable energy, minerals and property firm The Banks Group launched plans last year to create a new flexible energy storage hub through the reclamation and restoration of part of the former Thorpe Marsh power station site near Doncaster.
After gathering feedback on the project plans from local people and businesses through a range of consultation activities, Banks submitted a planning application for the project to Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council at the start of this year.
But as part of Banks’ evolving position in the renewable energy sector, it has sold the project to independent power producer West Burton Energy, which already operates the West Burton power station and battery energy storage system in Nottinghamshire.
West Burton Energy will now take the project on through the planning process, construction and into operations.
The Thorpe Marsh Green Energy battery storage project could store up to 2.9GWhrs of energy, enough to supply around 340,000 households with electricity for one day, and would be used to ensure reliable and stable electricity grid operation at times of peak demand, thus helping to improve the UK’s energy security over the long term.
In particular, it will be able to store renewable power generated during periods of oversupply of renewable electricity, and then release such power into the national electrical network when there is insufficient supply of renewable generation, such as when it is less windy or sunny.
Richard Dunkley at The Banks Group says: “We are proud to have identified and proposed a project that could deliver one of the world’s largest battery storage plants providing an invaluable use for part of the derelict former power station.
“Thorpe Marsh will utilise the site’s large scale grid capacity to facilitate the increased deployment of renewable energy technologies on the National Grid network, so that more of the energy that we all use in our homes, businesses, schools and hospitals can be generated via our own renewable means and less from unreliable overseas sources.
“The response we’ve had from local people, businesses and community leaders over the last year to our ideas was very encouraging and we look forward to seeing West Burton Energy bringing this nationally significant scheme to fruition.
“West Burton Energy’s local knowledge, significant experience in the energy generation and storage sector and access to the capital required to take this nationally-significant project forward makes them the ideal owner.”
Morris Van Looy, chief growth and strategy officer at West Burton Energy, adds: “Richard and the Banks team have done an excellent job identifying and progressing the Thorpe Marsh energy storage project, which is a real world leader in its ambition.
“West Burton Energy is delighted to take over ownership and looks forward to delivering this much needed project to ensure security of supply, maximise the use of renewable energy, and to re-use this former power station site.”
The Banks Group was advised by Rothschild & Co (corporate finance and M&A) and Ashurst (legal) during the transaction. West Burton Energy was advised by Burness Paull (legal).
York-based law firm continues expansion with appointment of senior solicitor
York-based property and life planning solicitors firm, Guest Walker, has appointed senior solicitor, Sue Hanley, to its Life Planning department.
Sue, who began her legal career almost 30 years ago in Norwich, brings with her a wealth of expertise in Probate, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Estate Planning and has a well-established reputation in York having previously worked at Hethertons Solicitors.
Speaking of Sue’s appointment, Rowena Rogers, head of department and firm director, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Sue to the team. Sue is extremely approachable and is able to offer our clients a wealth of experience across all life planning matters.
“Guest Walker has very strong, well-established residential and commercial property departments and I am proud of the way the Life Planning department has grown in recent years to offer our clients a holistic approach to all of their property, business and personal affairs. We want our clients to know they can rely on Guest Walker at every stage of their life.”
Sue Hanley, Life Planning solicitor, said: “I am delighted to have joined such a well-respected firm in the heart of York city centre. The way the team has grown in recent years is testament to the service that the team are offering their clients and their growing reputation in the city and beyond.
“I am really looking forward to building my client base here at Guest Walker and helping the team to continue looking after our clients and their families with all aspects of Life Planning.”
Lincolnshire sole trader fined following workers’ exposure to hazardous substance
A Lincolnshire-based sole trader has been fined after his employees were exposed to a hazardous substance.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted Chris Buckley, trading as The Furniture Chest, after the workplace regulator inspected the firm’s site on Station Road, Heckington, Lincolnshire, on 7 April 2022.
HSE inspectors found a significant build-up of wood dust and that Local Exhaust Ventilation systems, provided to capture wood dust and protect employees, had not been thoroughly examined and tested.
A subsequent HSE investigation found Chris Buckley had failed to prevent or adequately control employees’ exposure to wood dust and had failed to ensure that Local Exhaust Ventilation systems had been thoroughly examined and tested. Improvement Notices had been served in relation to the control of wood dust at previous inspections.
Wood dust is a hazardous substance and exposure can lead to workers suffering from respiratory diseases such as asthma and sino-nasal cancer.
Chris Buckley of Heckington, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 7(1) and 9(2) of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. He was fined £1,354 and ordered to pay costs of £3,578 at Boston Magistrates’ Court on 9 October 2023.
HSE inspector Muir Finlay said: “Chris Buckley could have ensured that his Local Exhaust Ventilation systems were thoroughly examined and tested to ensure that they were working to protect the health of employees. A suitable and sufficient cleaning regime could have been implemented to further reduce the build-up of dust.
“HSE recognises wood dust can cause serious health problems and launched its Dust Kills campaign to help businesses to take action now to protect their workers’ respiratory health.”
This HSE prosecution was supported by HSE enforcement lawyer Rebecca Schwartz.
Leeds City Council considering range of new measures to meet budget challenge
Leeds City Council chiefs are having to consider a range of additional measures including significant staffing reductions, building closures and asset sales as the latest steps in the ongoing major budget challenge.
At the meeting of the council’s executive board at the Civic Hall on Wednesday 18 October, a series of reports will be discussed on the financial position the council is facing now and for the years to come, together with options on how to meet the challenge.
Despite setting a balanced budget in February, the council is facing extra in-year pressures leading to an overspend of £29.6million for the current financial year. This reflects issues being felt nationally as a result of rising costs and demand for services, especially for looked after children, those with special care and education needs as well as for adult social care, together with an unfunded nationally-agreed pay increase for council staff.
All services have put forward proposals to deliver those savings, but the need for further savings continues on for the next three years with an estimated funding gap of £162.8m up to the end of March 2027, with £59.2m of that relating to the next financial year for 2024/25.
In order to meet this challenge, and fulfil the legal obligation to deliver balanced budgets each year, the council will continue to carry out continuous service and asset reviews along with freezes on recruitment, as well as on non-essential spending except where necessary for health and safety or statutory reasons.
Further significant measures will be necessary however, so the council has issued a formal Section 188 notice to consult with trade unions to avoid, reduce and mitigate the potential risk and consequences of compulsory redundancies with the council needing to reduce its workforce by up to 750 full-time equivalent posts by the end of the 2024/25 financial year.
This will be managed using a range of methods, including natural turnover of staff together with flexible retirement and voluntary leavers schemes, with compulsory redundancies being a last resort. In terms of its overall size, the council currently has around 3,500 fewer staff than it did in 2011.
As part of the ongoing service and asset reviews, the council continuously assesses the estate it owns and manages across the city. On average, around 10 buildings per year are released and as part of this process a further four are now being earmarked for potential closure by the end of the year due to having low occupancy levels and increasing maintenance costs. These are at Adams Court, 15 Lavender Walk, Broomhill Family Centre and Foxcroft Close. As a result of these proposed closures, staff impacted and the services they provide would be relocated.
Additional rationalisation being considered is the sale of four more assets owned by the council and currently leased out to operators. These are Swinegate Car Park, Harper Street Car Park, St George House and 2180 Century Way at Thorpe Park. If sold, these would generate substantial funds for the council to be used to mitigate the financial challenge.
Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor James Lewis said: “The proposals announced today are us being up front and clear with everyone about the scale of the challenge we and councils all over the country are facing.
“After responding to austerity for the last 13 years we have now reached the stage where we need to look at every option no matter how unpalatable, which sadly includes the possibility of compulsory redundancies as well as building closures, asset sales and stopping or reducing some council services which will no doubt have an impact.
“Given the scale of the funding shortfall we will be looking at every building in the council estate from the Civic Hall to local community facilities, to identify what can be disposed of while still providing services to the public.
“All areas of the council are doing everything possible to mitigate that impact with a focus on continuing to provide frontline and essential services that people rely on in every community and support our most vulnerable residents, but it’s clear as with councils all over the country we cannot meet these financial challenges alone.
“The government needs to address this crisis in local government finance as a matter of urgency now.”
Dudleys appointed to advise on £6m arts centre at Saltaire
Dudleys Consulting Engineers has been appointed by Shipley College to advise on full civil and structural engineering for the proposed new £6 million community and arts centre at the World Heritage site of Saltaire in Bradford.
A planning application was submitted recently by the College to deliver the 10,441 sq ft Community, Art, Heritage, and Future Technology Centre on a former car park at the corner of Victoria Road and Caroline Street.
As well as providing new teaching spaces for Shipley College, it will become a new home for the Saltaire Collection – an archive of important documents and artefacts recording the history of the village. The plans also include a roof top civic garden, exhibition spaces and new public toilet facilities and it is intended that the centre will become an initial welcoming point for visitors to Saltaire.
This new building has been carefully designed to sit contextually within the World Heritage Site, enhancing the public’s enjoyment and appreciation of it. The design and development ran alongside public engagement and consultation, as well as guidance from Bradford Council’s planning authority and Historic England, to ensure the plans protect the outstanding universal value of Saltaire.
Dudleys Consulting Engineers is working alongside designers, 3xa Architects and project management company, Spring & Co. to deliver the project.
Leeds established Dudleys has already advised around the feasibility of the site to support the planning application and will continue to assist with the delivery, subject to planning consent. It is hoped that building works could start by June 2024.
Peter Dixon, Director of Dudleys and Fellow of the Institute of Structural Engineers, said: “The scheme has been brought forward with a rare opportunity to redevelop under-used land in the heart of this World Heritage Site, and will become a fantastic new heritage hub.
“Of course, the World Heritage status brings with it heavy restrictions on development potential, specifically for the overall height so as not to impede views of Salts Mill and beyond. To work with the topography of the site and maximise usable space, the proposed building sits within the existing ground profile featuring an upper and lower floor. The upper ground floor space breaks out into an open roof top garden space and the surrounding areas will be landscaped.
“Interestingly, the site was once home to a Sunday School in the 1800’s and we were able to draw on the benefit of original drawings held on file to facilitate the geotechnical investigations and identify any risk associated with the former basement.
“Due to strict limitations on overall building height associated with views of the adjacent Salts Mill, we are co-ordinating with adjacent landowners to ensure viability of a gravity led drainage system to avoid unnecessary pumping equipment.”
Dean Clough to host British Urban Film Festival
On Friday next week the ultimate awards finale for The British Urban Film Festival will take place at Dean Clough in Halifax, when Leeds-born actress Angela Griffin is due to receive this year’s British Urban Film Festival Honorary Award.
BUFF is the UK‘s longest running showcase for urban independent film. Over the past 18 years the platform has galvanised filmmakers and audiences with its annual award-winning film and industry programme which has been recognised domestically and internationally by BAFTA, the Iris Prize LGBT+ Film Festival, the British Independent Film Awards and the African Movie Academy Awards.
BUFF recently announced plans to move the event outside of London for the first time, bringing it to the North, after collaborating with Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire. An official launch event took place last month with theopening weekend planned in Leeds on Saturday, 14th October and Sunday, 15th October at Everyman Cinema, Leeds. The festival continues at VUE cinema in Halifax on Monday, 16th October through until the awards climax at The Crossley Gallery, Dean Clough on Friday, 20th October.
Jeremy Hall, Chairman and MD at Dean Clough, said: “I am thrilled that Dean Clough has been selected to host the awards finale for BUFF and we are excited to offer a very warm welcome to all guests in our wonderfully unique environment. For more than 40 years, we have worked hard to regenerate this historically important site and cultivate a truly vibrant and diverse destination for both business and pleasure.”
Bus manufacturer secures 104,000 sq ft Scarborough unit
Alexander Dennis, the manufacturer of double-decker buses and Britain’s biggest bus builder, has secured a 104,000 sq ft unit and become the latest tenant in Yorkshire-headquartered Eshton Group’s commercial property portfolio.
Grice House, located in Eastfield, sits south of the seaside town of Scarborough. The unit, which has been taken on a 10-year lease, is just a few minutes’ drive from Alexander Dennis’ current location on Eastfield Industrial Estate and will play a key role in the growth ambitions of the bus and coach manufacturer.
With prime industrial space in short supply, Eshton successfully acquired the property with a tenant already lined up, reinforcing the developer’s strategy of investing in commercial properties in markets where occupier confidence and demand are greatest.
Jonathan Chapman, director at Eshton Group, said: “Given the ongoing undersupply of quality commercial space across the region, it comes as no surprise that Grice House received such strong interest, and we’re thrilled to have secured Alexander Dennis as the latest tenant in our roster and in such short timescales following the site’s acquisition.
“The location will prove an invaluable asset to Alexander Dennis and allow effortless transportation of parts and goods from its nearby location at Plaxton Park. As a pioneer in innovation and renewable technology, Alexander Dennis is adding a range of low- and zero-emission buses to its portfolio, with its latest location at Grice House supporting the world leader’s growth aspirations.”
Michael Stewart, group finance director at Alexander Dennis, said: “Grice House adds substantial warehouse capacity to our operation as part of our growth strategy for the business and commitment to the Scarborough area. Working with Eshton Group has allowed us to make this improvement quickly, which further benefits our operations.”
Eshton was advised by Owen Holder of Holder & Co.
Duo of deals bring new businesses to Kirkstall Forge in Leeds
Two deals have been secured for space at the Kirkstall Forge development in Leeds. American firm, Buildings IOT, is opening its first UK base as part of its cross Atlantic expansion plans and local firm, CPA Consulting Engineers, is moving to accommodate its continued long term growth plans.
Buildings IOT delivers software and services to improve the operational performance and reduce the environmental impact of buildings and will be CEG’s partner of choice for its new build developments.
They are taking a Let Ready studio which provides fully furnished workspace, with modern kitchens, break-out and meeting areas. Mark Davenport, Director UK & Europe for Buildings IOT, explains: “The all-inclusive lease, and the fact we could move in, plug in, and start work immediately, was a huge bonus.
“As well as being instantly part of a fantastic business community, the studios offer a great opportunity to grow and expand on site as we roll out our adaptive building solutions across the UK, Europe and South Africa.
“We also benefit from all of the facilities at the Forge, from the railway station, Butlers café bar and business lounge, to the suite of meeting and conference facilities and the great concierge team.”
CPA Consulting Engineers is a home-grown Leeds business which was keen to expand in an environment designed to support collaboration, creativity and prioritise health and wellbeing. They are taking a 14-desk Let Ready studio on an all-inclusive five-year lease.
Simon Crabtree, Director of CPA Consulting Engineers, said: “Our new office and the wider building setting promotes modern and flexible working, as well as our investment in the well-being of our team. It will continue to accommodate our long-term growth and has a fantastic woodland, riverside setting.
“Number One Kirkstall Forge is a modern, inspiring environment with a dedicated railway station offering easy access to Leeds in minutes, as well as connectivity to Bradford and onto locations across the UK, which is fantastic for our growing client base and colleagues alike.”
Antonia Martin Wright, Head of Commercial Development at CEG, said: “We are delighted to welcome two new like-minded businesses to the thriving community here at Kirkstall Forge. It is a modern, inspiring environment designed to nurture smaller businesses as well as large corporates, with contemporary space, great onsite facilities and events, all of which can help to attract and retain staff.”
Ultimately, the £400 million Kirkstall Forge scheme is set to become home to a mixed-use community comprising up to 1,500 new homes, 300,000 sq ft of offices and 100,000 sq ft of retail, leisure and community space.
New MoU heralds strategic partnership between South Yorkshire Authority and Aviva Capital
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Aviva Capital Partners Limited have signed an MoU to forge a strategic partnership aimed at fostering innovation, economic growth and housing development in the county.
This landmark collaboration signifies a pivotal step towards realising SYMCA’s vision of a stronger, fairer, and greener economy for the region.
It’s said that the agreement reflects the commitment of both parties to capitalise on the vast potential of South Yorkshire, building on Aviva’s expertise and experience to support SYMCA’s pursuit of private investment for sustainable economic development. This partnership, supported by the four Local Authorities in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham, and Sheffield, seeks to drive positive outcomes for the local economy and communities.
As a leading institution in the region, with 1,800 people based in Sheffield, Aviva will work closely with SYMCA to unlock private investment in South Yorkshire that aligns with the Authority’s objectives.
This is the latest commitment from Aviva Capital Partners, Aviva’s in-house investment unit which originates regeneration, housing and infrastructure assets using Aviva group capital to make places and communities more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable.
John Cummins, CEO of Aviva Capital Partners, said: “Aviva has a strong presence in South Yorkshire and is committed to boost the economy of the region through this new partnership with SYMCA. We’re looking forward to fostering sustainable economic growth, infrastructure and housing through private investment.”
Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “The ongoing transformation and regeneration of cities and towns in South Yorkshire, along with the region’s rich cultural and industrial heritage, present numerous opportunities for increased private investment in our region.
“Working closely with Aviva, I am looking forward to the opportunities that this relationship will bring about for South Yorkshire as we accelerate the growth of new businesses, foster innovation, and promote modern construction methods for residential development.”
“Our housing vision for South Yorkshire emphasises the availability of quality, affordable, and sustainable housing that contributes to a net-zero economy.”
“With a need for about 5,000 new homes annually, including 2,000 affordable ones, this is the start of a collaborative approach that will address the needs for the residents of South Yorkshire who deserve access to safe, affordable housing for themselves and their families.”
North Yorkshire launches ambitious plans to speed economic growth
Ambitious plans to tackle some of the biggest challenges which society is facing while accelerating economic growth across North Yorkshire have been harnessed in a brand new strategy for the county.
The council’s draft economic growth strategy calls for it to take a leading role in proposals to create a carbon negative economy, maximise investment and improve the quality of life for the county’s 615,000 residents and 32,000 businesses.
The five-year strategy includes plans to support business growth by building on existing sectors and increasing innovation and productivity. It is also looking to equip town centres so they can thrive through the 21st century by investing in transport, housing, digital and energy infrastructure. And the strategy is also aimed at ensuring that residents have the skills needed to meet these aspirations.
The draft plan sets a framework for detailed actions and investment plans with delivery both by ourselves and in partnership with other agencies. It also outlines the roles which the council’s area constituency committees will play to make sure local communities are involved and engaged.
Cllr Derek Bastiman said: “Our economic growth strategy is a key milestone for the council, marking an exciting new phase for our economy. We are set to take the lead on tackling some of the big economic challenges of our time and seek to maximise investment from the private sector, government and funding agencies.
“This strategy comes at a critical time for North Yorkshire, and one of the most exciting in its recent history. Having recently successfully completed the move to a single unitary, we have a once in a generation opportunity to embed a new approach to supporting economic growth in North Yorkshire.”
Already almost complete is a devolution deal with City of York Council have successfully secured a devolution deal with the Government. Subject to final approval by Parliament it will lead to the creation of a new York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to drive regeneration and investment to the wider area.
Cllr Bastiman added: “North Yorkshire is a unique and special place. Its scale and industries make it integral to the North of England’s economic future, and its landscapes, culture and history make it a fantastic place to live, work and do business.”
North Yorkshire’s key economic strengths include:
- A thriving, entrepreneurial business base with high business density.
- A strong and diverse economy where growth and productivity have outpaced UK levels at various times in recent years.
- A highly skilled workforce and strong labour market, with employment rates and qualification levels exceeding UK averages.
- One of the best places to live in the UK with two National Parks and three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and places like Skipton and Harrogate often voted among the best places to live in the country.
- A highly connected location at the heart of the North, with major sites primed for development and strong connections to east coast ports as well as major cities such as York, Leeds and Bradford.
- Access to world class research and innovation assets linked to economic strengths in food, energy and bio-renewables with close links to universities and research and development centres in neighbouring areas, including top-flight universities in Leeds and York.
- Outstanding places spanning urban, rural, and coastal locations, where a breadth of cultural and heritage assets combine with thriving market towns covered by the third largest local authority in England.
Recruitment crisis remains huge, says BCC
Fewer firms are reporting that they’re having problems recruiting staff, but it’s still a huge issue, according to the British Chambers of Commerce.
Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the BCC said: “Employers are offering more flexible working wherever possible but are still struggling to hire and retain the right staff to help get them through these challenging economic times. The picture in the hospitality and manufacturing sectors is particularly worrying.
“We have just under a million job vacancies in the economy, and skills shortages are damaging businesses’ ability to operate profitably – as well as impacting the wellbeing and morale of remaining staff.
“Businesses and the government need to work together to resolve this problem. Bringing more people back into the workforce, with rapid retraining programmes and comprehensive support, will help. While many employers remain sharply focused on investment in training, most businesses need more help to get the workforce skills they need. Positive interventions in the tax and skills system would be welcome, to boost investment in workplace training and development.
“It’s high time the government listened to employers and brought in the urgent reforms to the apprenticeship levy that will allow more people to get the training they need. We also need long-term commitment to Local Skills Improvement Plans that are bringing together employers and providers to plan for skills needs.
“And where businesses have tried everything possible to recruit people locally, a flexible and affordable immigration system must be there to support them. The Shortage Occupation List does not reflect the reality businesses experience on the ground. Last week, the Migration Advisory Committee underlined concerns that the list is not an effective tool to address labour shortages. An alternative must be developed urgently and in consultation with business.
“Our economic forecasts suggest the coming couple of years are going to be tough for everyone. Solving the recruitment crisis will be key to getting the economy growing again.”
Her comments come in the wake of the latest Quarterly Recruitment Outlook, a survey of nearly 5,000 UK firms of all sectors and sizes, by the BCC Insights Unit, reveals that many firms are still facing problems hiring staff.
The third quarter results for 2023, show a continuing decline in the percentage of companies facing hiring difficulties. The figure has dropped 9 percentage points from the historical high of 82% in Q4 2022. The figure has now fallen in each quarter of 2023 – but remains above 70%.
Attempted recruitment in Q3 was virtually unchanged from the previous quarter, with 61% of firms looking to find staff (60% in Q2).
Recruitment difficulties are being felt across the economy, but the hospitality sector continues to suffer the most, with 79% of firms reporting hiring challenges in Q3 (compared to 86% in Q2). This is closely followed by both construction & manufacturing on 78% (down from 86% and 81% respectively in Q2). 72% of retail businesses said they had experienced recruitment issues.
Of the hospitality firms reporting problems, 58% faced difficulties in finding semi/unskilled workers, 41% skilled manual/technical staff. In the construction and engineering sector, 78% faced problems getting skilled manual/technical workers, but just 21% for semi/unskilled.
As businesses continue to face a series of economic headwinds, most are still reporting no increase to investment in workplace training. Just over a quarter of firms reported an increase in staff training (27%, the same as Q2), with 13% reporting a drop (14% in Q2).
Labour costs are cited by the most firms as a source of cost pressure, with 66% citing this (compared to 63% in Q2 and 67% in Q1). 59% of firms say they’re concerned about energy costs.
Hull Trains to increase numbers of trained mental health first aiders
Hull Trains is set to increase its number of internal Mental Health First Aiders following a positive rollout of the scheme earlier this year.
This week is World Mental Health Day and the theme this year is ‘mental health is a universal right’. The evidence-based training gives people skills to spot the signs of poor mental health, the confidence to start a conversation and the knowledge to signpost appropriate support.
Hull Trains has already trained seven colleagues to become Mental Health First Aiders, and a further 15 are set to receive the training.
Deborah Birch, Head of HR at Hull Trains, explained: “Our employees are the heart of our organisation, and their wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us. By increasing the number of trained Mental Health First Aiders, we are demonstrating our commitment to creating a supportive and compassionate work environment. We want our colleagues to know that help is readily available if and when they feel they may need it.”
The training has been delivered to colleagues across all roles in the company, including each of the line managers.
The expansion of the Mental Health First Aider programme aligns with Hull Trains ongoing efforts to foster a workplace culture that prioritises colleague wellbeing, destigmatises mental health issues and encourages open communications.
The operator remains dedicated to ensuring that all colleagues have the necessary resources and support to maintain their mental well-being through their employee assistant programme which is available to all staff 24/7.
Hull trains MD Martijn Gilbert added: “It’s been great to see how positively our team has responded to the adoption of Mental Health First Aiders. Although there are lots of avenues available to provide support for our colleagues, and the customers they serve, knowing we have colleagues on the ground who are trained to spot signs of potential mental health matters and can signpost non-invasive ways of help will be key to ensuring our whole team feel comfortable to speak out if needed and knowing they have someone to turn to.”
Time to prepare: PSTN and ISDN switch off occurs in December 2025
BT are ceasing their PSTN (traditional copper phone line) and ISDN (digital phone lines).
You will either need:
• Internet-Based Communication: VoIP services allow you to make calls over the internet using a broadband connection. You’ll have to subscribe to a VoIP service provider, acquire compatible VoIP hardware (IP phones or analogue telephone adapters), and configure the necessary settings to use the service. This may mean a new phone number, although some providers offer the option to retain your existing number.
OR
• A mobile network system (Mobile Communication): You can switch to mobile networks by using mobile or smartphones. This involves selecting a mobile service provider, obtaining a SIM card and activating a mobile plan.
Traditional landline phone services will stop working. WHY?
The change is being made so that all telephony services move away from the old systems that have been in place for decades to a newer, more reliable technology.
Some countries have already made the change and the rest of the world are planning on doing this soon.
You may need to get new phones, phone numbers and devices for these options.
Existing landline phone may no longer be compatible with the new communication technologies.
But in most cases the existing number (especially for businesses), should be able to be moved across (it’s called porting your number).
You’ll need to switch to other ways of making phone calls.
If you use a phone system or have an Internet connection which relies on these traditional systems, whether at work or at home, you will be affected by this change. Any service that has not already been migrated to one of the new options will simply stop working.
How can LCS help?
LCS can help you move seamlessly from the old to the new by implementing Voice Over IP (VOIP), or mobile systems. These may result in additional one-off cost to replace any incompatible handsets / systems but the on-going running costs should be cheaper than your current systems and be more reliable and provide additional functionality.
T: 01522 718192 E: support@lcsit.com W: www.lcsit.com
Waverley land parcel sold for development of 32 houses
Harworth Group has sold a serviced land parcel at its Waverley site in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, to Forge New Homes for the development of 32 houses.
This is Harworth’s first sale to the regional housebuilder, which was established as a joint venture between five housing associations – South Yorkshire Housing Association, Great Places Housing Group, the Guinness Partnership, Together Housing and Yorkshire Housing.
The new development will comprise two and three-bedroom terraced homes and will be built as part of Olive Lane, a new focal point for the community with amenities such as cafes, restaurants and local shops, alongside a new medical centre.
The new homes will provide a distinctive offer and be available for market sale. They will feature attractive street frontages, free-flowing layouts and a design that allows blended indoor and outdoor living, while also being fully electric.
The homes will have individual south-facing gardens, parking spaces with EV charging ports, and will be set amongst landscaped communal areas and footways. South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has awarded Forge New Homes grant funding from the SYMCA Brownfield Housing Fund to support the delivery of the new homes.
A planning application for the retail and leisure element of Olive Lane is currently awaiting determination by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council. Subject to the timing of a planning approval, Harworth intends to break ground on the development later this year.
The medical centre already benefits from a planning approval and is expected to open by the end of 2024. Elsewhere at Waverley, a new learn-to-ride cycle track was opened in September by triple Olympian Ed Clancy, the latest in a series of community facilities that Harworth has built to date at the site.
Ed Catchpole, Regional Director – Yorkshire & Central, Harworth, said: “Forge is building a track-record of delivering high-quality modern homes designed for families, and we are delighted to be welcoming them to Waverley.
“This latest sale demonstrates the robust demand we are seeing for our serviced land products, which are located in established communities with plentiful green space, amenities and well-designed public realms, allowing housebuilders to start building much-needed new homes from day one.”
Andy Beattie, Director, Forge New Homes, said: “Olive Lane is a fantastic scheme by Harworth, one that will continue to transform the area and create a strong community at Waverley. We’re delighted to have been granted planning approval to build 32 family homes by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.
“The development will have a focus on open space and outdoor community areas, providing a vibrant neighbourhood for buyers. With customers at our heart, we’ll continue to build liveable spaces for thriving households and growing communities.”
