Businesses urged to have their say on plans to change waste charges

Stuart Pearcey
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Businesses urged to have their say on plans to change waste charges
The Environment Agency is encouraging the waste, water, and farming sectors to have their say on charges associated with waste activities. The 10-week consultation, which runs until January, proposes introduction of new regulatory charges for specific waste activities, as well as updating existing charging regimes from April 2025. The Environment Agency is consulting on four key proposals:
  • A waste levy which will enable the Environment Agency to increase waste enforcement activity by around 30%.
  • New and updated hourly rates to ensure continued recovery of costs of regulatory activities.
  • A waste fee for intervention to recover the cost of regulation where operators lack authorisation.
  • Registration and compliance charges for waste exemptions. For farmers, we are proposing a reduced compliance charge for a set of 15 common on-farm waste exemptions.
England’s waste management industry generates nearly £7 billion annually, but organised criminals are becoming increasingly drawn to illegal waste activities which cause over £1 billion in damages each year, undercutting legitimate businesses. The needs of the legitimate sector have also grown in recent years, making it necessary to review the service charges to ensure the Environment Agency can continue to deliver a robust and efficient regulatory service. Proposals in this consultation will fund more regulatory work to target waste crime and the revenue generated through charges will support stronger enforcement, better customer support, improved digital systems and clearer guidance, says the Agency. Illegally-dumped waste can impose significant costs on legitimate private landowners and rural businesses. The Environment Agency is committed to working closely with these groups to tackle the impacts of waste crime. Steve Molyneux, Deputy Director of Waste and Resources Regulation at the Environment Agency, said: “It’s our job to be fair and transparent with the businesses we regulate for the work we do. Waste exemption abuse across industry sectors, increasing costs of regulation and illegal waste activity, is making it harder to meet the cost of these challenges.

“Our proposals will see more investment in our services, which is crucial in protecting legitimate businesses, tackling waste crime and reducing environmental damage. We encourage interested parties to respond to help shape the future of their industry.”

South Yorkshire firms urged to share experiences of crime

Stuart Pearcey
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South Yorkshire firms urged to share experiences of crime

Organisations across South Yorkshire are being asked to share their experiences with business crime via a new poll conducted by the three regional chambers of commerce.

Open until Monday 9th of December, the Business Crime Survey aims to find out how often local firms are targeted by shoplifting, burglary, theft from motor vehicles, fraud, assault and cyber-attacks, as well as the effect that these illegal activities can have on their day-to-day operations.

In addition to gathering said insights, the questionnaire will gauge respondents’ awareness of the various different support mechanisms that are out there to help them, while also asking them to rate how satisfied they have been with the response to any incidents that may have been reported in the past.

The South Yorkshire chambers promise to listen carefully to what the business community has to say, and plans to use the findings to better understand the scale of the problem; decide what more can be done to support firms with these challenges; and articulate to key partners (including the police) where improvements are needed most.

Chief Execs for the three South Yorkshire Chambers — covering Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley & Rotherham — issued the following joint statement: “From our regular interactions with members, we already know just how profound an effect business crime can have on an individual organisation; whether it takes the form of reputational damage, financial harm, customer loss or an impact on staff wellbeing. From SMEs right through to larger corporations, this is a major concern that spans all sectors and industries, which is why we are so keen to get under the bonnet of it via our new survey.

“By sparing just a few minutes to anonymously describe their experiences here, business-owners will be enabling us to fight more effectively in their corner. Indeed, we will be using the results to lobby for meaningful change, to make sure that the best possible support is available to firms on the ground when it comes to dealing with crime, and to hopefully make South Yorkshire’s private sector less vulnerable to such activity in the first place.

“To do this well, however, we need as many different perspectives as possible. After all, the greater the response to our questionnaire, the more authentically we will be able to represent businesses on this hot-button issue.”

The latest iteration of the South Yorkshire Quarterly Economic Survey (QES), the Business Crime Survey is sponsored by Clear Insurance Management and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard, added: “We need businesses to have the confidence to invest; but that means listening to businesses about what undermines that confidence. I know crime and security are huge concerns for our business community, from fraud to shoplifting. So, as I develop my first Police and Crime Plan, I’m determined to listen and to learn. That’s why I need businesses to fill in the Business Crime Survey, so I can understand their needs and priorities, and what they want to see in that Plan.”

Steelworks’ carbon capture programme wins extension

Stuart Pearcey
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Steelworks’ carbon capture programme wins extension

The Environment Agency has granted British Steel permission to extend its trial of ground-breaking technology to capture carbon emissions from Scunthorpe steelworks.

The extension means the company can gather more detailed data from the technology and further support research into how it could be used in the steel industry and beyond.

The tech has been developed by the University of Sheffield and was showcased by one of the people behind it, Dr George Dowson, to Environment Agency members on a recent site visit.

The CO2 captured at the company’s Central Power Station will be bottled in gas cylinders and taken to the University where it will be converted into synthetic transport fuels.

Dr Andy Trowsdale, British Steel’s Head of Research and Development, said: “This project is all about testing the capabilities of the technology. If it works for us, and others, it could be scaled-up and play an important role in carbon capture, utilisation and storage.”

Breach of immigration rules earns eight-year directorship ban

Stuart Pearcey
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Breach of immigration rules earns eight-year directorship ban
A businessman who hired five illegal workers at his Sheffield car wash has been banned as a company director for eight years, and his company is being pursued for £75,000 for immigration breaches. Lukas Horvath, 27, employed the workers at the Storm Hand Car Wash on Attercliffe Common, which was visited by Immigration Enforcement in 2022. Horvath, of Lowedges Crescent, Sheffield, was disqualified at a hearing at the High Court in Manchester, and his directorship ban started today. Dave Magrath, Director of Investigation and Enforcement Services at the Insolvency Service, said: “Company directors must follow all the rules and regulations that are required of them. Lukas Horvath failed to do this by employing five people who did not have the right to work at his car wash.

“Improving director conduct is a key priority for the Insolvency Service and we will continue to work with our partners at the Home Office to clamp down on those who do not meet the standards we expect.”

Storm Hand Car Wash, which trades as Storm Car Wash Limited, was incorporated in July 2020, with Horvath as its sole director. Immigration Enforcement visited it in June 2022, finding five men in their 20s with no right to work in the UK. Three were from Eritrea, with the other two from Iran and Iraq. Storm Hand Car Wash was fined £75,000 for the immigration breaches, which remains unpaid, but has been passed to specialist debt recovery contractors for enforcement action. Theresa Gregory, the Home Office’s Immigration Compliance Enforcement lead for North East, Yorkshire & Humber, said: “Illegal working undercuts honest employers, places vulnerable individuals at risk of exploitation and disadvantages legitimate job seekers. It also impacts public finances as taxes are not paid by these businesses and workers, which is why tracking down unscrupulous employers is so important.

“We’re pleased to secure this director ban following an effective and close working relationship between the Home Office and the Insolvency Service.”

Loan of £90,000 was just what the doctor ordered for North Yorkshire vet practice

Stuart Pearcey
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Loan of £90,000 was just what the doctor ordered for North Yorkshire vet practice

North Yorkshire-based Claro Hill Vets has secured a £90,000 loan to help navigate past cashflow issues during development of a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility.

The money came from Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II – managed by Business Enterprise Fund.

Founded by experienced veterinary surgeon Laura Keyser in January this year, Claro Hill Vets services clients in Harrogate, Wetherby, North Leeds, and surrounding areas, operating from a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility. The practice is equipped with three consulting rooms, two sterile operating theatres, a dental suite, digital x-ray, an in-house Idexx laboratory, and a cutting-edge CT scanner. Separate wards for cats and dogs ensure optimal patient care.

When unforeseen circumstances led to cost overruns during the facility’s development, the practice faced potential cashflow challenges. To navigate this, Laura turned to BEF for support, securing an NPIF II – BEF Smaller Loan alongside a £25,000 Start Up Loan provided by BEF in June 2024.

Laura said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from BEF and the NPIF II fund. This funding has been instrumental in allowing us to overcome early financial challenges and focus on delivering the high level of care we’re passionate about. With our state-of-the-art facility, we’re excited to expand our services and grow our team, all while continuing to serve the communities of Harrogate and beyond. Our goal is to not only meet the rising demand for small animal care but to set new standards in veterinary services.”

The funding not only provided crucial working capital but also enabled the creation of four new jobs while protecting seven existing ones.

Claro Hill Vets is one of the first businesses in North Yorkshire to benefit from a NPIF II Smaller Loan since the launch of the £660 million fund in March 2024.

The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIFII) covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25k to £2m and equity investment up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.

Mark Iley, Senior Investment Manager at BEF said: “Laura and her team have created a truly impressive facility with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to high-quality care. By providing this funding, we’re not only helping them stabilise their operations but also enabling future growth and job creation in the local community. We’re excited for this round of funding to play a role in aiding her vet practice to reach its ambitious growth targets.”

The purpose of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the North of England. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II will increase the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for the North’s smaller businesses, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and help to break down barriers in access to finance.

Former soccer referee named as next Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam

Stuart Pearcey
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Former soccer referee named as next Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam
Uriah Rennie, the first black referee to oversee Premier League football games, is set to be installed as Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University next year. Uriah, best known as Uri, grew up “on the Wybourn”, a working-class neighbourhood in the east end of Sheffield. He became an international FIFA and FA football referee and officiated more than 300 games during his career. He already has strong connections to Sheffield Hallam. During his refereeing career Uri successfully studied for an MBA at the University. Last year, the University awarded him with an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his distinguished contributions to sport and his work with resilient communities across South Yorkshire He will be installed as Chancellor early next year. He said: “I’m excited to be rejoining Sheffield Hallam University to become the next Chancellor. As a proud Sheffielder, I have seen first-hand the immense benefits that the University brings to communities across the region. “I want to pay tribute to those who have gone before me in this role, who have enabled the University to become such an integral part of the local, national and international educational community. “I’m looking forward to working with students, the wider university community and the Vice-Chancellor to make a real difference, particularly on the issues that I’m passionate about, including providing all communities with the opportunity to transform their lives through education.”

City Council promises to get tough with property owners over derelict buildings

Stuart Pearcey
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City Council promises to get tough with property owners over derelict buildings
Hull City Council is warning property owners in the city that it is prepared to take tough action against them, including convictions and fines, if buildings are allowed to fall into poor condition. This was demonstrated by a Section 215 notice issued by the council to a freeholder, which it’s believed will act as a deterrent to other building owners to ensure their properties are well-maintained. The notice was served to the owners of the ‘Westobys’ building – London-based Arthur Westoby & Co. Limited – at 124 Boulevard. The property was vacated less than four years ago but has been left to deteriorate and it is now considered to have a detrimental effect on the building’s character, local amenity and conservation area as a whole. The building has vegetation growth and rotting fabric, and is now impacting an adjoining residential building through damp. The council’s planning enforcement department served the notice on the freeholder on 25 October and it has now taken full effect since the 14-day appeal period has surpassed without action. The freeholder was aware of the department’s investigation and has taken no action as requested. The council has requested the removal of all the vegetation from the façade and gutters, removal of waste materials and general rubbish and necessary and appropriate repairs to windows, gutters, fascia detail, dental blocks and paintwork. The freeholder has two months, from 8 November, to comply with the notice. Should the steps required by the notice not be undertaken the council will not hesitate to take further action, which could result in a conviction and fine for the property owner.

Yorkshire law firm Gordons’ growth continues with net profit up 14 per cent to £12.1m

Michael Fisher
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Yorkshire law firm Gordons’ growth continues with net profit up 14 per cent to £12.1m
Law firm Gordons has grown its net profit by 14 per cent to £12.1m for the year ended 31 March 2024 whilst increasing its annual revenues six per cent to £22.3m during the same period As a result, all staff received a payment equivalent to five per cent of their annual salary. The firm has also reported a strong start to the first half of this latest financial year with turnover up 12 per cent year-on-year. Gordons’ revenue growth for the year ended 31 March 2024 was achieved via increased instructions from existing clients and new client acquisition, including Zoopla parent company Houseful. In particular, the firm’s corporate and commercial team grew its annual turnover by 20 per cent, whilst the employment practice saw its revenues rise 14 per cent. Gordons’ clients include retailers AO, Iceland Foods, Morrisons, Ocado Retail and Wren Kitchens as well as drinks company Molson Coors and parcel delivery business Evri. The firm also promoted two new partners during the period which saw litigation lawyer and head of wellness and inclusion, Catherine Woodward, and head of regulatory, Simon Tingle, join Gordons’ leadership team. Causes supported over the year included Bowel Cancer UK, in memory of partner Bryony Goldspink, child bereavement charity Elliot’s Footprint and underprivileged children’s charity Bradford Cinderella Club. Gordons managing partner, Victoria Davey, commented: “Our continued success is based on building trusted and enduring client relationships underpinned by strong financial management. “These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our distinct ability to think and act entrepreneurially on behalf of our clients. This approach sets Gordons apart.”

More than 400 attend LEP Conference to talk AI and innovation

Stuart Pearcey
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More than 400 attend LEP Conference to talk AI and innovation

More than 400 attended this year’s LEP Conference where AI and innovation were on the agenda.

An inspiring keynote by rebel technologist Brett StClair set the tone for the event, which took place at the EPIC Centre on the Lincolnshire Showground. A Demonstration Arena, showcasing the latest technology and innovation from Greater Lincolnshire businesses and academics, was a popular attraction with delegates, and two In Conversation discussions on innovation provided much food for thought. The three past and present Chairs of the LEP – Professor Neal Juster, Pat Doody and Ursula Lidbetter – shared their reflections on the achievements of the LEP and looked forward to the future. And James Pinchbeck, Chief Marketing Officer at Streets and Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Innovation Commission, launched the Greater Lincolnshire LEP’s Innovation Routemap. Developed by the LEP and the University of Lincoln, the routemap sets out a new approach to accelerating innovation-led growth across Greater Lincolnshire. “The LEP Conference is a chance for us to bring our supporters together, share ideas and see how technology is shaping the future of our economy,” said Professor Neal Juster, Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership. “One of the great things about the LEP is the collaboration that goes on between businesses. The conference is a great networking opportunity because you never know where your new business friends, supporters and collaborators are going to be. “Today our theme is innovation for growth, and it’s clear that if businesses are going to survive in a competitive market they need to either do new things or do what they’re currently doing differently. Today is an opportunity to see how other companies are doing things and share knowledge and experiences. “The feedback from our annual conference has always been extremely positive, and every year we’ve always had more people coming along. What they get out of it is an understanding of how others are operating in Lincolnshire, the challenges they have, the opportunities they’re grasping and how best they can capitalise on new technologies.” Laura Capindale from Hit Your Target was visiting a LEP conference for the first time. She said: “There’s been an amazing atmosphere, so many people here and lots of networking,” she said. “It’s been great to hear about some of the innovation that’s happening. “I’m particularly interested in the culture side and it’s been interesting to find out about some of the challenges in Lincolnshire around recruitment and retention and building a growth mindset within businesses.”

York Central names Development Director for expanded team

Stuart Pearcey
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York Central names Development Director for expanded team

Karen Stafeckis has been appointed as Development Director of York Central as part of an expanded team under Tom Gilman, MD of McLaren Regeneration, and will collaborate closely with Allan Cook, founder of Arlington Real Estate, the debvelopment’s strategic partner.

She said: “York Central is one the UK’s most exciting regeneration projects, with huge opportunity and potential. I’m really looking forward to working with Tom and the team, our partners, stakeholders and local people to deliver our vision for a highly sustainable place, full of life, vitality and community.

“A key focus for me is to embed and deliver upon the generational environmental and social sustainability commitments and opportunities that this development presents.”

Stafeckis will have a strategic role within the York Central team, which includes Jack Widdup, a current Development Director at McLaren Living, who will focus on York Central, and Joseph Young, a recent graduate joining as a Development Surveyor.

Tom Gilman said: “We are assembling a strong team of experienced professionals, with expertise and insights gained from major regional regeneration projects and broad sector knowledge. I welcome Karen, Jack and Joseph to the team and very much look forward to working together to deliver an outstanding new quarter for the city of York.”

York Central will deliver 2,500 new homes (20% of which will be affordable) and create up to one million sq ft of office, retail and hospitality space, along with improvements to the York Railway Station and an enhanced National Railway Museum.

Next to York railway station and covering 45 hectares, York Central has the potential to generate up to 6,500 jobs and will help to grow York’s future economy by 20%, by adding £1.1bn GVA to the city.

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