Airport future: Chamber issues stern warning over mudslinging and electioneering
Doncaster Chamber of Commerce is calling for all parties in negotiations to reopen the region’s airport to show a united front to get the site back up and running, rather than be concerned with mudslinging, political point scoring, and electioneering.
Chief Exec Dan Fell says business doesn’t care which political party gets to cut a ribbon at the airport reopening ceremony, so long as the aim of bringing international connectivity back to South Yorkshire is achieved.
He said: “Unfortunately, we are seeing a lot of unwelcome commentary at the moment that, at best, is a needless distraction and, at worst, could potentially jeopardise the future of this hard-fought campaign by spooking potential investors.
“Pulling together to get a favourable deal done should be our focus right now, rather than needless mudslinging in public forums. After months of uncertainty, plans to get South Yorkshire’s airport reopened are moving forward at pace and there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel. This is owing to the tireless efforts of many partners and colleagues — of all political dispositions — behind the scenes and should be a cause for celebration.
“The negotiations here are necessarily detailed and complex and we need to give those in the thick of it time and space to get it over the line. 24/7 commentary is not going to be conducive to that goal.
“Lots of people have contributed to this and it has been a true collaborative effort. For example, national government played a huge role in conferring Investment Zone status to South Yorkshire and the Civil Aviation Authority has been helpful in retaining the airspace over DSA whilst negotiations take place. Meanwhile, local and regional government has poured considerable resource into the campaign and demonstrated great leadership and tenacity.”
Mr Fell said pitting one transport scheme for South Yorkshire against another, as he believed some had been seeking to do, was simply reductive. “The region needs both an airport and a mass transit system for its core city, and those two things should not be seen as mutually exclusive. In the fullness of time, it is true that we will need to establish a better plan for increasing the overall investment into South Yorkshire’s infrastructure, and it will be reasonable to ask why other regions — such as West Yorkshire — seem to be more successful than us at leveraging in infrastructure investment. However, that conversation must be decoupled from the immediate need to get our airport reopened.
“Politicians need to hold each other to account; the business community accepts and understands this. Yet there are ways of achieving this without resorting to megaphone diplomacy and without jeopardising projects that are essential to South Yorkshire’s future growth. Airing political differences in public diminishes investor confidence and achieves very little, even in an election year. With that in mind, we are urging our political friends and partners to, please, tone it down and focus on telling the outside world what a great place South Yorkshire can be to do business.
“Finally, to any organisations who are involved in the plans to reopen DSA — including carriers who may wish to be based there in the future — we say this: ‘South Yorkshire’s business communities are grateful for your keen interest in our region and are standing by ready to welcome you to our networks. Here, you will find a private sector that is eager to partner with you so that, together, we can grow the airport, fulfil its latent potential, and help you achieve your aims as well. We look forward to working with you to make the airport a resounding success.”
Could South Holderness be suitable for a nuclear waste disposal site?
The suitability of South Holderness in Yorkshire’s East Riding as a site for disposing of nuclear waste is to be explored by a newly-formed working group – the second potential site in our region; the other being at Theddlethorpe in Lincolnshire.
Establishment of the group is said by the Government to be a starting point for a conversation with a local community, and is in no way an indication that a ‘Geological Disposal Facility’ will be built in a particular area.
One of the Working Group’s tasks will be to engage people across the community to begin to understand the local area and any issues or questions the community might have.
Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “East Riding of Yorkshire Council has today accepted the invitation to join the South Holderness GDF Working Group, which is the first step to opening discussions with the community about whether a GDF would be right for the area.
“Understanding what a GDF is and exploring the associated benefits is critical to the decision-making process for any community, because it will ultimately be the local community who decide.”
Dr David Richards, independent Chair of the Working Group, said: “The South Holderness GDF Working Group marks the beginning of finding out more about what a GDF is and gives our community an opportunity to share their thoughts about what it means for them. “We want to work with local communities to discuss the potential of a GDFand the establishment of a Community Partnership, which if formed would benefit local good causes through grants of up to £1million pounds per year.“My role as Chair is to make sure local communities have access to information and to understand what people think about a GDF. We look forward to meeting local people and listening to their views.”
A GDF is internationally recognised by governments and scientists as the only viable permanent solution for the safe disposal of higher-activity radioactive waste in the long-term. It involves isolating the waste deep underground in suitable geological formations, placing it in highly engineered vaults and tunnels, keeping the waste safe and secure over the many thousands of years it will take for the radioactivity to naturally reduce. NWS will be a member of the South Holderness GDF Working Group, along with the independent Chair, David Richards, Invest East Yorkshire (the Interested Party), East Riding of Yorkshire Council and members of the community. NWS CEO Corhyn Parr, said: “South Holderness joins three other communities involved in the GDF siting process who are already learning more about this vital project and the benefits and opportunities it could bring, such as the creation of thousands of jobs and opportunities for investment in local infrastructure. “We are looking forward to meeting local people, providing more information, answering questions, and listening to all views. This is a consent-based process, meaning if the community does not express support for a GDF it won’t be built there.”Hull gets £22m to develop low carbon heating network
A £22m grant for the Hull East District Heat Network is amongst four similar projects to share in £80.6m from Government.
The Hull funds will be used to create build a heat network using excess heat generated by a nearby chemicals park. The project will provide low carbon heating to 14 public sector council buildings and industrial businesses.
Other projects, in Bolton, Exeter, and London will recycle heat from other sources, including waste water from washing machines and sewers.
Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said: “These innovative projects will help drive down energy costs while also demonstrating why the UK has led the way in cutting carbon emissions.
“They show how energy sources can be found in the most unexpected places – as more homes and businesses will benefit from cleaner heating and lower energy bills.
“Our upgrades will also make sure our existing heat networks are upgraded – so customers can get the reliable heating supply they deserve.”
Heat networks supply heating and hot water to homes and businesses via heat pumps or sources from underground, manufacturing, and waste management. They help cut carbon emissions by supplying heat to multiple buildings from a central source, avoiding the need for households and workplaces to rely on individual, energy-intensive heating solutions, such as gas boilers. The transition to heat networks forms a major part of the UK’s carbon reduction commitment, with heating in buildings making up 30% of all UK emissions.Forgemasters adds new Non-exec Director to its Board
Norman Bone has been appointed as Non-executive Director to the Board of Sheffield Forgemasters with immediate effect.
He is an experienced CEO and Chair with a proven track record in delivering financial results, and was Chair of aerospace giant Leonardo UK Ltd, where he was responsible for all three UK divisions; electronics, helicopters, and security.
With a wealth of experience in engagement with UK Government, MOD and UK Security agencies, Norman will support the Board in its recapitalisation programme to support UK defence programmes.
His background also includes implementation of culture change and new working practices within manufacturing operations, and he brings experience from the top tier of management at BAE Systems and global drinks company, Diageo.
The appointment will see Janice Munday, who has been with the business since 2016, step down.
Illegally dumping waste to protect his fishing lakes lands man with £9,500 fine and suspended sentence
Phillip Taylor of Scorton, near Richmond, has been given a 12-week suspended sentence and ordered to pay £9,500 for illegally dumping 2,400 tonnes of building site waste to protect his fishing lakes from flooding.
Taylor, 70, must also remove the waste, which had been taken from housing developments and dumped on Catterick Complex beside the River Swale to form unauthorised flood defences to protect his commercial fishing lakes.
The illegal dumping of excavation waste at the Catterick Complex could displace or deflect flood water elsewhere, increasing flood risk. Taylor refused to remove the waste when directed by the EA.
Paul Glasby, the Environment Agency’s investigating officer, said: “Due to climate change flooding is becoming more frequent and severe and it’s important that landowners and businesses are aware of the legal restrictions for working in or near main rivers.
“Before doing so they must first gain authorisation from the EA so we can ensure that changes do not increase flood risk to others or damage the environment.
“Taylor showed a blatant disregard for the law and the community around him. Building unauthorised flood defences or conducting unauthorised works in a flood plain is a serious criminal offence and we are determined to take action to protect flood prone communities and the environment.”
Deputy District Judge Garland said Taylor had been given ‘repeated warnings’ and told him: “It’s clear that there was a deliberate disregard for the rules in the way you went about your business, creating a potential risk.” The company which transported the waste to the Catterick Complex, Greenford Haulage & Aggregates Ltd, has previously been subject to an Enforcement Undertaking, donating £30,000 to Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust.Building a greener workspace with sustainable office practices in 2024
In the pursuit of a Net Zero future, organisations across the UK are striving to adopt sustainable practices, and businesses across Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland are no exception. As part of its commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region, Business Lincolnshire is taking proactive steps to guide businesses in creating environmentally friendly workspace through its Low Carbon Lincolnshire initiative.
Understanding the challenge
The UK’s ambitious target of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 has prompted many businesses to expedite their sustainability goals, with some aiming for Net Zero as early as 2030.
Businesses today face a myriad of challenges when it comes to transitioning to greener workspaces. From the complexity of implementing sustainable technologies to the financial considerations involved, the path to a more environmentally friendly office can seem daunting. However, recognising the urgency of addressing climate change and the positive impact sustainable practices can have on both the environment and the bottom line, businesses are actively seeking ways to overcome these challenges.
How can businesses move towards greener workspaces?
1. Energy Efficiency is Key. Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices can significantly reduce a workspace’s carbon footprint. This includes using LED lighting, optimising heating and cooling systems, and incorporating smart energy management tools to monitor and control consumption.
2. Sustainable Office Design. Redesigning office spaces with sustainability in mind involves choosing eco-friendly materials, maximising natural light, and creating open, collaborative environments that encourage energy efficiency and employee well-being.
3. Waste Reduction and Recycling Programmes. Establishing effective waste reduction strategies and implementing robust recycling programmes can drastically minimise the environmental impact of daily operations.
4. Employee Engagement and Education. Creating a culture of sustainability among employees is crucial. Providing education on eco-friendly practices, encouraging energy conservation, and involving employees in the decision-making process can lead to lasting change.
5. Green Procurement. Choosing suppliers and partners who share a commitment to sustainability can extend the positive impact of a business’s green initiatives throughout its supply chain.
While these tips provide a foundation for building greener workspaces, the journey to sustainability often requires tailored guidance and support. This is where initiatives like Business Lincolnshire’s Low Carbon Lincolnshire programme come into play.
Low Carbon Lincolnshire
Recognising that SMEs play a vital role in the drive towards Net Zero, constituting 99% of the UK’s enterprises and employing 60% of the workforce, Business Lincolnshire can help SMEs in our region to navigate this transition.
Through a series of fully funded workshops and supporting materials, the Low Carbon Lincolnshire programme addresses key areas such as Net Zero, Decarbonisation, Energy Management, and Sustainable Supply Chains. Delivered by the sustainable business support team at PECT, working on behalf of Business Lincolnshire and which already collaborates with over 300 organisations on sustainability and decarbonisation projects, these workshops offer a unique blend of expertise and practical insights.
By leveraging the expertise of organisations like PECT, participating businesses gain access to proven strategies and hands-on assistance, making the transition to a more sustainable office environment both achievable and impactful. This not only enhances business practices but also contributes significantly to the broader vision of a Net Zero economy by 2050.
In collaboration with Business Lincolnshire, SMEs can lead the way in sustainable office practices, turning challenges into opportunities and collectively forging a path toward a more environmentally conscious future.
To find out more about Low Carbon Lincolnshire, visit https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/start-and-grow-my-business/grant-and-support-finder/business-lincolnshire-low-carbon-lincolnshire/
Batley school sold to children’s services provider
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Dale House Independent School & Nursery in Batley, West Yorkshire.
Established by Andrew and Sarah Fletcher in 1999, Dale House is an independent Prep School with a capacity for up to 120 students aged two to 11 years. It occupies a former Edwardian Sunday School that was originally built for the St. John’s Church congregation in 1907 and extended in 2002.
Set within a residential area of Batley, West Yorkshire, the property is in a good location, less than five miles from the M62. Dale House was ranked by the Sunday Times as one of the top 50 Preparatory Schools in England in 2020.
Having battled with a serious illness, Andrew and Sarah decided it was time for Andrew to step back from the bursar’s role and for Sarah to retire to help look after him after having dedicated over 24 years of service to the local community. They did not have time to engage in a lengthy and public sale offering so approached Christie & Co for assistance.
Following a highly confidential sales process with Vicky Marsland at Christie & Co, a wide range of interested parties were engaged. Despite this being a highly regarded and profitable independent school, the majority of interest came from specialist education providers and a sale has now been agreed to Polaris Community, one of the UK’s leading communities of children’s services providers.
Andrew and Sarah Fletcher, former owners of Dale House, said: “It was very sad to see such a lovely and successful school close, but we are delighted that it will remain as a school, providing desperately needed specialist services for the children in Kirklees.”
Loren Cahill, Project Manager for Polaris Community, said: “We’re thrilled with the acquisition of Dale House School in Batley. With this remarkable space, we are poised to provide the best outcomes for young people, offering a nurturing, supportive and empowering environment to learn, grow, and thrive.
“We cannot wait to open the doors to this School and witness the positive impact we will undoubtedly make in the lives of these promising young individuals.”
Vicky Marsland, Associate Director – Childcare & Education at Christie & Co, said: “I was very excited to take on this project when I originally met Andrew and Sarah. From the outset, the primary concern was to sell the school as a going concern but, after exhausting all avenues, the highest level of interest came from specialist education and care providers.
“It was extremely difficult for Andrew and Sarah to decide to sell with vacant possession but, ultimately, they had to make a decision that allowed them to move on to the next chapter of their lives. It’s been a pleasure working with them and I wish them both a very well-deserved retirement, being able to spend more time with their family and friends.
“Whilst there are a select number of large independent school providers in the UK that remain the subject of strong investment, unfortunately, we have seen those smaller schools struggling to compete when the time comes to sell and retire.
“As the SEND schools sector continues to thrive due to the growing demand for suitable settings that support the needs of children who are unable to access mainstream education, the demand for vacant possessions on independent schools has increased.”
Dale House Independent School & Nursery was sold for an undisclosed price.
Grants of up to £75k to be made available to get foreign recognition for UK professionals
More UK professionals will be able to provide their services around the world thanks to new government funding to help get UK qualifications recognised overseas.
Grants of up to £75,000 will be awarded to UK regulators and professional bodies as part of the Recognition Arrangements Grant programme. The fund can help them strike deals with counterparts around the world to help make it easier, quicker and cheaper for UK professionals to have their qualifications recognised overseas.
The UK is the world’s second-biggest exporter of services in the world – behind only the US – and the nation’s services exports are currently at a record high.
However, qualifying as an architect, accountant or lawyer in the UK doesn’t generally qualify professionals to practise abroad which means UK companies miss out on opportunities internationally. The Government is therefore pledging £500,000 to help facilitate agreements which can reduce the need for professionals to gain additional qualifications in foreign countries or go through potentially costly and burdensome bureaucracy.
Minister for Trade Policy Greg Hands said: “Obtaining professional qualifications in foreign countries can be expensive and slow for professionals like lawyers and accountants who want to export their world-class services overseas.
“Part of the answer is to secure mutual recognition agreements between the UK and other countries, to acknowledge each other’s professional qualifications.
“This new round of funding will help open new doors for UK-qualified professionals, allowing them and their firms to focus on winning contracts, exporting their expertise abroad and growing their businesses.”
This third round of funding follows previous successful rounds which led to:- Agreements between the UK’s Financial Reporting Council and their New Zealand and Swiss counterparts for auditors, allowing UK audit firms to sell their services more easily in those countries.
- Work towards arrangements in sectors like legal services, accountancy and architecture with a range of jurisdictions such as Morocco, Hong Kong, and India.
New head of Aon’s Leeds and Sheffield offices
Aon plc, a professional services firm, has named Paul Winrow as head of office for Leeds and Sheffield.
Paul succeeds Karen Wilczek, who has retired following a career of over 37 years with Aon. In his new role, Paul assumes overall responsibility for the firm’s Leeds Embankment and Sheffield offices, and the 36-strong Corporate Commercial Risk Solutions team.
This expands Paul’s current role as the head of office of the firm’s Leicester Corporate Commercial Risk Solutions office.
Drawing on 22 years’ industry experience, Paul will implement the national and regional strategy, develop colleagues, and drive a positive and supportive culture to ensure clients receive the highest level of service to achieve their goals.
Paul joined Aon in 2016 as client director overseeing a portfolio of clients. Over time, his remit expanded to include managing colleagues and joining the Leeds and Sheffield office management teams, before being promoted to head of office for Leicester in October 2022. Prior to joining Aon, he held roles with Willis Towers Watson and Marsh.
Paul Winrow said: “I am proud to have been appointed head of Aon’s Leeds and Sheffield offices at such an exciting time for the firm and following a busy and successful 2023.
“I am surrounded by a talented and knowledgeable team, and I’m looking forward to developing colleagues to ensure that they can continue to support our extensive roster of clients with their commercial insurance needs.
“It has always been my ambition to progress into a leadership role and Aon has provided me with the opportunity to achieve this goal. I am really looking forward to building on all Karen has achieved and working with my colleagues and clients across Leeds and Sheffield.”
New President for Sheffield Chamber of Commerce
Sheffield businessman and communications specialist Alexis Krachai has been appointed as Sheffield Chamber of Commerce’s newest Chamber President.
Alexis brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, as both Managing Director of specialist communications agency Counter Context, and a leading figure in the region’s business community.
Alexis’ 36-strong agency, which is headquartered in Sheffield, provides consultancy, public affairs and communications services to government and some of the UK’s most transformative property, energy and infrastructure companies.
He is also well-known across the city as a strong advocate for private sector leadership and driving change across the economy.
Alexis is a Non-Executive Director on the Chamber’s board. He led the organisation during the pandemic as Co-Interim Chief Executive, alongside the now permanent Chief Executive Louisa Harrison-Walker.
Alexis continues to fly the flag for Sheffield, promoting the city and shaping an agenda to make Sheffield the best place in the UK to start and grow a successful and sustainable business.
Between 2017 and 2021, Alexis led on the set up of the Sheffield Property Association (S-PA), the only formally constituted property association outside of London.
In 2019, he played a central role in the formation of the Sheffield Culture Collective which was convened through the S-PA’s leadership to drive investment in culture across the city and create the conditions for Sheffield to attract more government funding for culture. During the pandemic, he also co-chaired Sheffield’s Covid-19 Business Recovery Group which formulated the first economic (recovery) plan approved by Sheffield City Council in over a decade. Most recently, he has worked with colleagues across the city to oversee a process formulating a series of Sheffield City Goals.
Alexis took over from the outgoing President Karen Mosley, Managing Director of HLM Architects, at the Chamber’s AGM this week. The AGM took place at Henry Boot PLC’s new office in Isaacs Building, part of the Heart of the City development.
At this event, Alexis outlined his plans for his upcoming two-year term, with a focus on supporting businesses and spearheading cultural investment in Sheffield.
His priorities include representing Chamber members when they need support and a strong voice to advocate for their interests with local and central government. He will continue to bring constructive challenge to drive change in the city economy and help deliver wider prosperity.
In his term, Alexis will be focussing his efforts on advocating that Sheffield has a long-term plan to retain and attract talented people by driving greater investment into culture across the city.
Alexis Krachai, new Chamber President, said: “I am honoured to take on the responsibility of being President of the Chamber and representing our members. Sheffield has momentum but, like many cities, it must wrestle with many challenges that will impact on businesses and the wider economy over the coming years.
“I am naturally optimistic and upbeat. Together there is nothing we cannot achieve in Sheffield, but we must not dodge the difficult conversations about how to build greater strength and resilience in our economy. Without a stronger economy we cannot address the inequality in the city or face the mounting challenges like energy and food price rises and the impacts of extreme weather.
“My focus on driving investment in culture stems from so many conversations over the years – culture will be the answer to many of Sheffield’s questions. Investment in culture is what brings people together and makes for an amazing place to live and work. Investment in culture is all about celebrating diverse communities and ensuring our city and district centres are always buzzing. Over time, a buzzing city creates more jobs, more businesses and wider prosperity.
“Sheffield does not get enough funding for culture from government. The solution to that starts with us locally. I will be working hard to make the case that local businesses have such an important role to play by investing in culture and making Sheffield one of the most exciting and interesting places to be 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
“There are many challenges across the UK and the wider world but Sheffield has momentum. For me the Presidency is all about having a positive impact and working with others in the business community to help build on that momentum, whether it involves lobbying for our business community, grasping opportunities, or asking the difficult questions.”
