Planning approved for 66-bed care home in Bourne

LNT Care Developments has secured planning approval from South Kesteven District Council for the construction of a 66-bed residential care home in Bourne. The development will replace an existing house on Tarragon Way, with a two-storey H-shaped building designed to include parking for 30 vehicles.

The project is expected to create between 50 and 60 local jobs and represent a significant investment in the area. Beyond construction, it will generate ongoing opportunities for local contractors, suppliers, and community engagement, including potential partnerships with schools and community groups.

While most local residents supported the location, concerns were raised over the site’s accessibility and parking capacity. Ward councillor Helen Crawford noted issues with the proposed entrance on Coriander Drive, potential congestion from HGV traffic, and insufficient parking for visitors and staff.

The planning committee approved the project with the condition that a travel plan and construction plan be submitted. No timeline for the project’s completion has been provided.

Largest cold storage facility opens in Lincolnshire to boost UK food security

Magnavale has launched the UK’s largest cold storage facility in Grantham, Lincolnshire. With a capacity of 101,000 frozen pallet spaces, the site is designed to support the growing demands of the UK food supply chain while focusing on sustainability.

This cutting-edge facility operates entirely on renewable energy and incorporates advanced automation and high-bay, rack-clad storage. It also offers additional services such as blast freezing and contract packing, streamlining operations for businesses in the sector.

The opening of Magnavale Easton will strengthen the UK’s food security and is expected to bring long-term economic benefits to the local area. It will also help companies reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.

New solar farm proposal in Lincolnshire to power 23,000 homes

Starlight Energy has unveiled plans for a new solar farm in Lincolnshire, which will generate enough energy to power 23,000 homes. The proposed site, located near Burton Pedwardine on the outskirts of existing solar farms, spans 76 hectares (188 acres) off White Cross Lane, Sleaford.

Following consultations with the Burton Pedwardine Parish Council, the developer scaled down the project’s initial size. The proposal includes the installation of 3m-tall solar panels, a substation, fencing, CCTV cameras, and access tracks, with a 40-year operational timeline.

If approved by North Kesteven District Council, the project is expected to generate £50,000 annually in business rates and establish a community fund. Until the consultation period ends, the public has until the end of the period to submit feedback through the NKDC website.

Network Rail begins Scarborough station roof restoration project

Network Rail has launched a year-long, multimillion-pound renovation of Scarborough railway station’s Grade II-listed roof. The project aims to restore the roof while maintaining the station’s historical character. It will include upgrades to the drainage systems and stonework, enhancing safety and the overall passenger experience. Despite the scale of the work, the station will remain open during the day with efforts made to minimise disruption.

The restoration is expected to improve facilities, such as the ticket office and waiting areas, while preserving the building’s heritage. The project is set to be completed by early next year.

In addition, Network Rail is progressing with the restoration of a Grade II-listed water tower in York. Part of the York Station Frontage transformation, the tower will be refurbished to provide a rehearsal space for the York Railway Institute Band and a second unit for lease. Planning permission and listed building consent have been granted, and the project is now moving forward with funding and contractor selection.

Meanwhile, Network Rail has announced plans to complete essential repairs on the historic Ryde Pier on the Isle of Wight by May 2025, ensuring continued service on the Island Line.

Hat-trick of property panel reappointments for Gateley Legal

Gateley Legal’s specialist residential development team has secured a trio of legal panel reappointments for Bellway Homes, McCarthy Stone and Taylor Wimpey. The legal business, which has offices in Leeds, has been advising Taylor Wimpey for more than 30 years and recently celebrated its 20-year anniversary of working with Bellway Homes. The team has been reappointed to the streamlined panels covering all regions for both housebuilders. It will provide support on a wide range of property, construction, disputes, commercial, regulatory and compliance matters. Following five years of service, Gateley Legal has also been reappointed by retirement living developer, McCarthy Stone, across all its regions to cover land acquisition, planning and plot sales matters, as well as construction, litigation and fire safety work. In addition to core legal advice, complementary support will be provided through the technical expertise of its property and construction consultancies within the wider Gateley group. This includes assisting with utility diversions and new connections, surveying matters, project management and capital allowances. Callum Nuttall, partner and national head of the residential development team at Gateley Legal, said: “We are delighted to be continuing our long-term relationships with Bellway Homes, McCarthy Stone and Taylor Wimpey. “These reappointments are a result of the hard work of our brilliant people, a series of strong lateral partner hires and our unrivalled multi-disciplinary offering which sees us providing both legal and consultancy services under one roof to meet the needs of both clients and the market.”

Helmsley Group sees growing demand for office space in York

Helmsley Group, a York-based property investment firm, has reported increased demand for office space in the city centre. The firm has secured 42,000 sq ft in new lettings, including spaces for flexible workspace providers Patch and Wizu and NHS service provider Nimbuscare Ltd.

This growth comes as businesses adapt to hybrid and in-person working models. The lettings include the Grade II-listed Bonding Warehouse and East Coast House, which will cater to companies seeking modern, flexible office environments.

The company is also preparing to launch its Coney Street Riverside development, which will introduce a mix of retail, leisure, commercial, and residential spaces in the city centre, further enhancing the area’s business appeal.

The increasing demand for office space in York reflects the ongoing shift in how businesses approach office-based work, with many now seeking environments that foster collaboration and community.

Skegness station upgrade delayed after contractor exits project

A £3.3 million redevelopment of Skegness railway station has stalled after the appointed contractor, Taziker Ltd, withdrew from the project. East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is overseeing the scheme, is now in the process of sourcing a new delivery partner.

The revamp is part of a broader investment funded through the government’s Town Deal programme and aims to improve passenger flow by reconfiguring the station’s internal layout.

Originally scheduled for completion by 25 May, the timeline is now uncertain. EMR has reaffirmed its commitment to the project and is working to minimise disruption while securing a new contractor.

For businesses involved in infrastructure, transport, or town centre regeneration, the delay highlights the potential risks of contractor dependency in publicly funded development schemes.

Metro Bank partners with Ask Silver to launch AI-powered scam detection tool

0

Metro Bank has launched a new AI-powered tool designed to help its customers—both personal and business—protect themselves from fraud. The Metro Bank Scam Checker, developed in partnership with Ask Silver, uses artificial intelligence to detect potential scams, allowing users to easily verify suspicious communications.

Customers can now send a photo or screenshot of emails, websites, letters, or leaflets they suspect to be fraudulent via WhatsApp to the Metro Bank Scam Checker. The tool quickly analyses the content and alerts users if it is a scam, offering guidance on how to proceed.

This partnership responds to the growing threat of sophisticated scams in the UK, including impersonation fraud, where criminals pose as trusted organisations to access sensitive customer information. By leveraging AI technology, the tool aims to provide customers with a quick and effective way to spot fraud and prevent financial losses.

In 2023, UK Finance reported over £1 billion in losses due to scams, with a significant portion of fraud starting online. Metro Bank’s Scam Checker is available to its customers free of charge, ensuring quick alerts and automatic reporting to authorities when a scam is detected. This feature is intended to aid in the broader fight against fraud by assisting law enforcement and the financial sector.

The tool reflects Metro Bank’s commitment to enhancing security and providing customers with a reliable method to stay one step ahead of scammers. The bank emphasises that it will never pressure customers into urgent actions or request sensitive information like passwords or PINs via email or phone.

Founded by Alex Somervell and Jonny Pryn, Ask Silver was inspired by a personal experience when a family member lost a significant amount of money to a scam. With this new partnership, Ask Silver continues its mission to combat fraud and protect consumers from scams.

UK Government introduces measures to support the automotive sector amidst global challenges

The UK Government has unveiled a set of measures aimed at securing the future of the domestic car industry, which has been under increasing pressure due to global factors, including US tariffs and the ongoing shift to electric vehicles (EVs).

The automotive sector has faced significant difficulties recently, including a 25% tariff on exports to the US, which has raised concerns over potential job losses and economic impact. The Government’s new initiatives are designed to mitigate these challenges and support the transition to electric mobility, a critical component of the industry’s long-term strategy.

One of the key changes is a revision to the zero-emission vehicle mandate, which will provide greater flexibility to manufacturers in meeting the 2030 target for phasing out petrol and diesel cars. This includes extending allowances for hybrid vehicles and offering exemptions for smaller manufacturers, such as McLaren and Aston Martin. In addition, the financial penalties for manufacturers failing to meet EV targets have been reduced from £15,000 to £12,000 per non-compliant vehicle.

Nissan, which has significant operations in the UK, will benefit from these adjustments. The company, which focuses on exporting vehicles primarily to Europe, is on track to expand production at its Sunderland plant. The launch of new electric models, including the next-generation Leaf, Juke, and Micra, is expected to strengthen its market position, with 2024 projections showing a rise in production and revenues.

While the measures are a step in the right direction, some industry leaders have voiced concerns that they do not go far enough to address the broader challenges manufacturers face. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has welcomed the flexibility provided to car makers, but cautioned that a more comprehensive approach is needed to stimulate demand for EVs, beyond the current focus on quotas and penalties.

The Government’s efforts aim to balance the need for environmental progress with the economic realities of a rapidly changing global market, offering a mix of regulatory adjustments and targeted support to help the UK automotive sector remain competitive on the world stage. However, as manufacturers continue to face mounting pressure, many are calling for further action, particularly on the demand-side incentives necessary to accelerate EV adoption among consumers.

McCain Foods UK reports strong growth, nearly doubling profits in three years

0

McCain Foods UK, based in North Yorkshire, has posted impressive financial results, with pre-tax profits reaching £98.7 million for the year ending 30 June 2024. This represents a significant increase from £77.3 million the previous year, showcasing the company’s strong performance despite ongoing challenges. Over the same period, UK revenue rose from £692.4 million to £781.1 million, contributing to an overall group revenue increase from £712.5 million to £799.1 million.

While McCain saw a decline in revenue from its European operations, dropping from £18.6 million to £15.6 million, other global markets experienced growth. Revenue from regions outside Europe grew from £1.5 million to £2.2 million.

Despite supply chain issues and rising input costs driven by factors like increasing fuel and fertiliser prices, McCain’s North Yorkshire operations reported positive sales growth in both retail and food service sectors. The company continues to prioritise sustainability, with investments in agricultural support and efforts to manage rising energy costs for storage growers. Additionally, McCain invested in the renewal of its Scarborough facility and brand development through media advertising.

Looking ahead, McCain plans to continue driving growth through innovation, quality, and service, while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Although no final dividend has been proposed for the fiscal year ending 30 June 2024, an interim dividend of £8 million has been addressed.

Leeds-based provider of data and AI consultancy services snapped up

Softcat, a provider of IT infrastructure products and services, has acquired Oakland, a specialist provider of data and AI consultancy services.

Oakland’s specialist consultancy services range from data strategy and governance, through to architecture and engineering, analytics and AI.

An existing partner to Softcat, Oakland is headquartered in Leeds, employs 70 people, and in the twelve months to 31 December 2024 generated revenue of £10m. As part of the transaction, Oakland’s leadership team will join Softcat to run the business initially as a standalone operating unit.

A payment of £8m has been funded by Softcat’s existing cash, with further contingent payments over the next three years depending on performance.

Graham Charlton, Softcat CEO, said: Data is one of the biggest opportunities ahead of us as innovation in technology continues to shift rapidly towards a more automated and AI-driven world.

“Our customers need expert support to navigate this transition, so by combining Softcat’s market presence and broad portfolio with Oakland’s specialist capabilities, we can guide customers through every stage of this journey.

“The acquisition of Oakland delivers an immediate, strategically important addition to our portfolio of services, and most importantly brings into the Softcat family a fantastic group of people who we know well and who align closely to our culture and values.”

Richard Corderoy, Oakland CEO, added: “We are excited to join forces with Softcat. By combining our deep expertise in data and AI consulting with Softcat’s extensive portfolio and market presence, we can deliver unparalleled value and innovation to our clients.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we’re looking forward to achieving great things together.”

Link Golf UK takes over Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Centre

Link Golf UK has officially been appointed as the new operator of Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Centre, with plans to elevate the venue into a leading golfing destination. The company is set to enhance the existing 18-hole course, driving range, and other facilities, introducing new technologies like TrackMan Range for a more interactive and modern golfing experience.

Link Golf UK, which takes over from Everyone Active, is focused on making the centre a community hub for golfers of all levels, emphasizing accessibility and technological advancements. The site, covering 160 acres on Ladgate Lane, is already home to a floodlit driving range and junior golf programmes to introduce young players to the sport.

As part of its strategy, Link Golf UK is prioritising community engagement and the development of the centre’s infrastructure to ensure it becomes a welcoming venue for both seasoned golfers and newcomers.

UK construction sector struggles with rising job cuts and declining demand

UK construction firms have been shedding jobs at the fastest rate in four years, driven by an ongoing decline in sector activity. March saw another contraction, marking the third consecutive month of shrinking output, though slower than in February.

The latest data from S&P Global’s construction purchasing managers’ index (PMI) revealed a reading of 46.4, slightly better than the previous month’s 44.6 but still below the 50 mark that signals growth. This indicates that the UK construction industry continues to face tough conditions, particularly within commercial construction, which saw its sharpest decline since early 2021.

Concerns over the broader economic landscape, including rising interest rates and global uncertainties, have contributed to the sector’s woes. A weak order book and subdued demand for construction projects have led to further job losses, with firms cutting staff at the highest rate since October 2020.

In particular, civil engineering experienced the largest drop in activity since 2020, while commercial construction remained relatively stronger but still contracted. Firms cited a slowdown in investment due to uncertain economic conditions and geopolitical risks. These factors, combined with an ongoing reduction in infrastructure work, paint a bleak picture for the future of the UK construction sector.

Yorkshire’s DJH acquires McBrides in first Southern deal

One of the UK’s fastest growing accountancy and professional services groups has made its first acquisition in the South as it looks to move into the sector’s ‘top 20’. DJH, which has offices in Huddersfield, Leeds and Sheffield, has joined forces with Bexley-based McBrides Chartered Accountants in a deal that springboards it into London and the South. The group will tap into McBrides’ regional presence and specialisms in guiding professional services, law firms, property businesses, shipping companies and UK subsidiaries of international companies. Tenzing-backed DJH will, in turn, provide access to dedicated teams across a range of services, including R&D tax credits, capital allowances, commercial funding, HR and IT. Existing McBrides Managing Partner Tanya Hamilton will continue to lead the business with the partner team. Scott Heath, Chief Executive Officer of DJH, explained: “It has always been our aspiration to have a substantial office in the South and the partnership with McBrides gives us an immediate presence in the region with a business that shares our values of teamwork, client service and trust. “As soon as Chief Operating Officer James Beardmore and I met Tanya and the partner team, a strong relationship developed, and we knew we could create the perfect foundations that support existing clients whilst giving us the opportunity to grow in the area.” He continued: “Together, we are edging closer to moving into the top 20 accountancy firms in the UK.” DJH, which provides audit, accounting, tax, and specialist business advisory services to businesses nationwide, combines local expertise with national reach, while maintaining personalised service at its heart. Following a series of ten acquisitions in three years, the firm has grown into a multidisciplinary team of 580 people with its Yorkshire offices being joined by ones in Altrincham, Bury, Chester, Derby, Manchester, Nantwich, Stoke-on-Trent and Walsall. The latest purchase creates further opportunities for both the DJH and McBrides teams to develop through their careers, as well as delivering growth potential for specialist service lines. Tanya Hamilton, Managing Partner at McBrides Chartered Accountants, said: “Joining DJH is a major milestone in our journey, providing an opportunity to strengthen our services, giving new and exciting opportunities for further growth, while also delivering more investment in technology as well as the training, recruitment and wellbeing of our team. “Being part of a top 40 UK accountancy firm, that shares our vision and values, is going to help us create the best possible place to work and provide further enhanced services to our clients.” Matt Nicholson, Investment Lead at Tenzing, concluded: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome everyone at McBrides to the DJH family. Finding partners with the right culture is critical for our continued growth aspirations and we are delighted Tanya, and the team have put their trust in us for the future. “This is particularly true when entering a new region, which is a major milestone for the DJH Group. We can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”

Aspire Furniture Ltd expands with new Leeds warehouse

Aspire Furniture Ltd, a wholesaler specialising in beds, mattresses, and bedroom furniture, has secured a new 56,400 sq ft warehouse in Leeds. The facility, leased for three years, will support the company’s expanding operations and boost storage capacity. Towngate PLC owns the warehouse, which is located close to Aspire’s manufacturing site, enhancing logistical efficiency.

This move follows a period of significant growth for Aspire, which has transformed from a small operation to a business with a £22 million annual turnover and over 100 employees. The company partners with major retailers such as Argos, NEXT, and Furniture Village and has a strong e-commerce presence. The new warehouse, with features including high ceilings, multiple loading doors, and ample parking, will help Aspire manage rising demand and streamline operations.

The facility’s location in the heart of Yorkshire’s motorway network will provide excellent connectivity, facilitating efficient distribution across the UK.

Yorkshire tyre wholesaler acquires “the future of tyre and Autocare”

Pocklington-headquartered tyre wholesaler Bond International has acquired 75% of the shareholding of Tyrescope. Tyrescope, described as “the future of tyre and Autocare,” is software which scans tyre tread depth from a mobile device, android or iOS, and provides users with critical information about the status of their tyres, including tread depth, issues with tracking, and tyre pressure. It also calculates when a user will need to replace their tyres. The software and business was set up and developed by Tony Mann, who remains a 25% shareholder and Managing Director of the business. Bond International CEO, Charlie Bond, said: “I met with Tony in 2024, and he showed me the software. I was astounded by its capabilities and the opportunities it could provide for both of our businesses. “I could see channels where this software could be used to help businesses with tyre safety, reducing fuel costs and reducing carbon production. Once I had seen what it was capable of, I knew I had to do a deal with Tony. All of us at Bond are very excited by the product.” Tyrescope MD, Tony Mann, said: “I met with Charlie and saw his enthusiasm, listened to his vision for the product, and knew immediately that Bond was the right business to partner with. They are highly respected in the industry and have many contacts. “This opens up new avenues that would not have been available without them. It was a simple decision, and I am extremely excited for the future and what it will bring.”

Work starts on York student accommodation scheme

GMI Construction Group has begun work on a major purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at Foss Islands Road in York. The £17m contract is the Yorkshire firm’s third PBSA project in the city and is targeted to complete for the start of the 2026/27 academic year. Developed in partnership by Urbium Capital and Harrogate-based developer Gregory Properties, the brownfield site was previously occupied by Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Just Tyres. The five-storey building will feature 131 studios and two one-bedroom apartments, paired with amenity areas including co-working study spaces, fitness centre, multi-functional social areas, and landscaped courtyards. Mick Spells, GMI’s project manager, said: “We’re excited to break ground on the Foss Islands Road project – continuing our work expanding York’s student housing infrastructure. “It’s a project that aligns perfectly with GMI’s commitment to delivering high-quality projects that benefit local communities. We look forward to bringing this scheme to life and making a positive contribution to the city’s student experience.” Iain McKillop, investment director at Urbium Capital, added: “We are pleased to see work commence on this exciting project. It exemplifies our dedication to transforming under-utilised brownfield sites to meet contemporary needs. “Foss Islands Road is an ideal location for student housing, and we are proud to collaborate with GMI Construction Group, whose expertise and commitment to quality make them an outstanding partner. “This development not only addresses the critical demand for student accommodation but underscores the significant role students play in York’s thriving economy.”

Construction begins on £3.8m enterprise centre in Todmorden

Construction has begun on a £3.8m enterprise centre in Todmorden, supported by the Todmorden Town Deal, marking a major milestone in its £17.5m investment programme.
Through a partnership between Connect Housing and Calder Valley Community Land Trust (CVCLT), an additional investment of £4m has been secured to add affordable rented homes to the project at Ferney Lee in Todmorden.
The Ferney Lee project will create 23 affordable rented offices and workspaces alongside 19 affordable rented homes.
The new Enterprise Centre will offer professional, high-quality space for micro and small to medium businesses, whether start-ups, freelancers wanting to move out of homeworking or more established small to medium enterprises looking to grow. Calder Valley Community Land Trust’s social enterprise subsidiary, CVCLT Enterprise Limited, will run the Enterprise Centre once developed. The new homes will be built to high standards of energy efficiency, following PassivHaus principles. They will be offered at social rents to people with a connection with, or need to live in, the Todmorden area. Connect Housing will manage the new homes when completed
Pam Warhurst, Chair, Todmorden Town Deal Board, said: “We are delighted that construction of this exciting and important new home for enterprise, business, co-working and collaboration in Todmorden is now underway. “The Enterprise Centre will meet the need for professional, modern and affordable workspaces and offices for commercial ventures, and for Todmorden people with ideas and passions they want to transform into a local enterprise. “We are committed to supporting our local economy in particular new skills development, and business and job creation, and the new enterprise centre perfectly embodies this element of our vision.”
The funding package for the Ferney Lee project comprises: 3.8m funding from Todmorden Town Deal, 1.9m from Connect Housing and a further £1.9m provided by Homes England through the Affordable Homes Programme (2021/2026). Construction at Ferney Lee is being undertaken by PLP Construction with completion anticipated in Spring 2026.

Yorkshire law firm Gordons promotes two to partner

Law firm Gordons has welcomed two new partners within its construction and property disputes practices.

Mark Smith joined the firm’s construction team last November from Addleshaw Goddard and has more than 25 years’ experience. He specialises in construction and engineering disputes, risk management and dispute avoidance.

Senior property disputes lawyer Paul Joyce arrived at Gordons from Womble Bond Dickinson last July. He has specialised in property litigation for 13 years and has led the firm’s property disputes team since joining Gordons.

Commenting on their promotions, Gordons’ managing partner, Victoria Davey, said: “Mark and Paul have both made a significant positive impact since they joined the firm which has benefitted clients and colleagues alike.

“They are progressive lawyers with the ability to consistently provide commercially astute, practical advice whilst building enduring client relationships, which are all traits distinct to Gordons’ culture.

“We now look forward to them playing an even greater role within the firm’s leadership team as we continue to evolve our construction and property disputes practices.”

Redundancies as Scunthorpe data centre supplier falls into administration

Administrators for failed data centre equipment manufacturer and installer Cross-Guard Limited have made a number of redundancies after the business was placed into administration on Friday 28 March. Gareth Rusling of Begbies Traynor Group and Charles Ranby-Gorwood of CRG Insolvency & Financial were appointed joint administrators of the company by its director after the business became unviable as a going concern. Seventeen redundancies have been made at the firm’s Scunthorpe head office at Queensway Industrial Estate, with 22 staff retained to complete orders and installation contracts while the joint administrators explore any potential buyers for the goodwill and assets of the business. A spokesperson for Begbies Traynor Group said: “It is very early days, and the joint administrators are actively working through all the financial information in detail to establish and contact all of the creditors and debtors, and to understand the cause of the failure of the business, but it is already clear that the business was unviable. “Sadly, redundancies have already been forced, and more are expected once the current work in progress is completed and the contracted projects are fulfilled. More information will become available in coming days and weeks, but our responsibilities are to protect the interests of the creditors, and to manage the process of redundancy that is affecting the employees.”