The Gregory Property group has started conversion work to create a 133-bed student accommodation scheme on Foss Islands Road in York, previously the home of Enterprise Car and Van Hire and Just Tyres.
The main build contract has been awarded to GMI Construction, and the building will be finished by June 2026 in time for the September 2026 term.
The scheme is to be completed in partnership with Urbium Capital, the London-based real estate private equity firm.
MD John McGhee said: “It has taken us two years to get to this stage and we have been supported by a strong team of professionals. The site has been redundant for a while and our scheme will provide a big improvement to the street scene and bring vibrancy to the area but also set new standards for sustainability and student well-being.”
Suliman Aujan, Founder & CEO of Urbium Capital, added: “York, with its strong academic institutions and growing student population, aligns perfectly with our strategy of investing in prime university cities. This project underscores our ongoing commitment to expanding our PBSA portfolio across the UK.”
Engineering consultancy the JPG Group has appointed David Allwood as Managing Director, stepping up from the directorship he’d held since 2018.
He takes over the role from Chris Harding, who moves to a consultancy role after nearly 15 years managing the business.
David said: “JPG has a proud heritage which spans nearly 40 years and I am thrilled to take up this new role, leading JPG into the next exciting chapter in our history. We have a fantastic business, and our can-do approach places us at the forefront in developing the built environment nationwide. I look forward to supporting the team on our continued successes.”
Chris said: “Independence is one of the key drivers for the JPG team and it has been a great pleasure to guide the business to this next step in our internal succession planning. David has a wealth of industry experience and knows the business well and I am delighted to offer him my personal congratulations and to wish him every success for the future.”
David is a Chartered Structural Engineer with over 25 years’ experience in construction and commercial property. He joined JPG as Project Engineer in 2007. He progressed a high achieving career within the business that includes setting up the Midlands office. He also gained significant international experience in the middle east region where he lived and worked to establish the JPG office in The Sultanate of Oman as Country Manager.
Established in 1988, JPG currently employs 45 people in Leeds and Birmingham, from where it provides civil and structural engineering consultancy services for clients throughout the UK.
Rula Developments is seeking outline planning permission to redevelop the former Tinsley Bridge Group site close to the M1 in Sheffield by building more than 270,000 sq ft. of industrial or warehousing space.
The site is just off Europa Way, alongside Sheffield Business Park in the heart of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District. Rula acquired the site in November last year and bought a further frontage plot for larger and more prominent roadside premises.
It proposes demolition of the existing factory building being vacated by Tinsley Bridge Group, replacing it with a development capable of supporting more than 500 jobs, depending on the occupier and mix of uses.
Anthony Clitheroe, Development Director at Rula Developments said: “Our proposals seek to replace the old manufacturing building with extremely high quality, state of the art warehousing space in what is an already well-established manufacturing and logistics location in Sheffield, just two miles from the M1 motorway.
“The area is already recognised as a hotbed for cutting-edge industry and is well placed for last mile logistics operators serving the Sheffield City Region. The requirement for high quality, purpose-built industrial accommodation in the region remains high and we have already established strong interest from potential occupiers. We plan to develop the plot in line with occupier demand.”
CPP represented Rula on the site acquisition and investment sale and have been retained as agent for the new build alongside Colliers.
Architects The Harris Partnership has designed the scheme alongside Adept Consulting Engineers, and RPP whilst ID Planning is supporting the planning application process.
Rula Developments is a privately owned commercial development company focusing on identifying and developing sites across the UK for immediate or medium to longer-term strategic development, delivering high quality buildings and schemes.
A campaign to bring more wildflowers and biodiversity to Lincoln while reducing carbon is launching this month.
Launched by Lincoln-based My Square Metre, Plant it Forward will see local businesses pledging to plant one square metre of wildflowers on behalf of a business of their choice, with that business then doing the same to pass it forward, and so on.
My Square Metre is the first of its kind online carbon offsetting calculator, which identifies often overlooked daily carbon-producing activities, and offsets through wildflower planting.
With an aim for Plant it Forward to reach 2,000 square metres of wildflowers, My Square Metre is hoping that through the interest and support of local businesses, Lincoln will be taking a step closer to a net zero carbon future as well as creating new habitats and boosting biodiversity.
In Britain, 97% of wildflower meadows have been lost since the second world war and 53% of native plants have been lost in the last 20 years due to human impacts. Meadow loss leads to a reduction in pollinators which are essential in food production.
When a square metre of wildflowers is planted through My Square Metre, the land is managed and protected for at least 30 years and the wildflowers will feed 24 bees each year for those 30 years. In addition, using wildflower planting to offset carbon is highly effective as they sequest carbon within the first year of planting, in comparison to tree planting which can take years to sequester.
To launch Plant it Forward, Lincoln business EcomeOne has committed to being the first company to sign up and will be passing the ‘wildflower baton’ on to Eagle Eye Innovations.
Ed Crowther, founder of My Square Metre, said: “The aim of Plant it Forward is to create meaningful change together, in an easily accessible, affordable and fun way. The cost of planting one square metre of wildflowers through My Square Metre is £10 plus vat, and the impact on our environment is considerable.
“Lincoln and Lincolnshire, like all areas of the country, have seen an extreme reduction in its habitats and biodiversity, as well as the increase in carbon production over the last 20 years. The Plant it Forward campaign is to target this through collaboration – bringing businesses together to make a difference.
“The team and I hope this is the start of a long-standing initiative that will continue to run, helping to build a better future for Lincoln. Big thanks to EcomeOne and Eagle Eye Innovations on getting us started!”
Carrianne Dukes at EcomeOne said: “We are gifting square meters of wildflowers to our clients to support them in their sustainability journey. This allows us to showcase our commitment to helping the planet, while building relationships in a sustainable and meaningful way.”
The target of 2,000 square metres will bring: 6 Tonnes of Co2 sequestered, 1m wildflowers, 24,000 bees every year for 30 years, 285 butterfly pairs, enough insects to feed 10 small birds, 400+ mice and voles and a home for hundreds of different species above and below ground.
Russell Wright-Turner has joined Zerum’s ownership group, marking a significant milestone for the multi-disciplinary property consultancy. Wright-Turner, a key figure in the company for several years, will continue to lead and expand Zerum’s cost management business as partner.
Russell joined Zerum in 2020 as head of the consultancy’s cost management business. He leads the team delivering high-quality project services across a range of sectors, including residential, commercial, purpose-built student accommodation, hotels, and retail.
Under Russell’s leadership, Zerum’s cost management team has contributed to several high-profile projects, including Gorton Street’s 40-storey co-living tower in Salford; Capital & Centric’s 190 unit, Talbot Mill, in Manchester; Blacklight’s recently completed £60m student scheme, Limelight, in Liverpool and the 284-unit private rented scheme, The Tilt Works, in Sheffield, delivered by Grainger.
Wright-Turner expressed his enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating: “Over the last 5 years, we have worked with some amazing clients that have seen us successfully deliver over 2,250 BTR units. Credit must be given to our team, who continue to adapt quickly to challenges and remain proactive in helping developers navigate ever-increasing viability pressures.
“I am delighted to be joining the Zerum board at what is a very exciting time for the business as it enters its next phase of growth. We plan to expand into regions outside of the North West and Yorkshire, and I am looking forward to playing a key role in supporting our strategic objectives and growing the team while continuing to deliver the highest level of service to our clients.”
In his new role as partner, he will also be responsible for overseeing and implementing Zerum’s corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy across the company’s various business lines.
Beyond cost management, Zerum also offers project management, planning, and transport services across its various divisions and works throughout the UK.
A first look has been given at dynamic plans to transform concert and event facilities at historic Leeds Town Hall.
A series of artists impressions have revealed how the building’s new entrance, box office and bar will look once work to revamp the Victorian landmark’s interior is complete.
The images, created by architects Page\Park and NPS Leeds, mark the latest key phase of the ambitious, once-in-a-generation project, which has now seen Kier officially become the construction partner for the redevelopment of the 166-year-old Grade 1 listed building.
Image courtesy of Leeds City Council
The transformative plans will see the creation of a stylish new box office, accessible entrance and impressive lift as well as the new ground floor bar and toilet.
Structural works will also include conservation and repair of some of the building’s unique features including stone masonry, delicate plasterwork and doors.
The redevelopment scheme is aimed at protecting and preserving the building’s key heritage features, whilst also ensuring it can host a bigger and more ambitious programme of accessible events and performances while generating important income for both the council and the wider local economy.
Kier will also be delivering a comprehensive social value programme of activity that will benefit the local communities in and around Leeds.
Image courtesy of Leeds City Council
Dan Doherty, regional director for Kier Construction North and Scotland, said: “We are proud to be working with Leeds City Council to refurbish the iconic Leeds Town Hall. Our highly skilled project teams have vast experience of regenerating listed buildings and we look forward to contributing to the preservation of this city centre landmark for generations to come.”
A spokesperson for Page/Park added: “We are excited to be involved in this project to inject new life into an iconic Leeds landmark. We have designed the project to respect the existing building, while inserting colourful and joyful new elements inspired by the rich colour palettes of the original interiors, as well as the vibrant nature of city.
“As a practice we are committed to careful conservation and creative adaptation of heritage buildings, and will take great care through the project to deliver a revived cultural destination that the city can be proud of.”
Opened in 1858 by Queen Victoria, Leeds Town Hall is one of the city’s most recognisable buildings, and was designed by famed architect Cuthbert Brodrick.
One of the largest town halls in the United Kingdom, the building stands an impressive 225 feet and was the city’s tallest building for 108 years.
In a separate aspect of the project, the famous Leeds Town Hall organ, will also be refurbished giving it an improved sound during concerts and performances.
The spectacular Victorian designs adorning the organ’s decorative pipes will also be restored to their former glory, providing a dramatic backdrop to every event held in the building’s beautiful Victoria Hall.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “These impressive images show just how much of a difference this project will make to Leeds Town Hall and to the thousands of people who attend its eclectic programme of events each year.
“The town hall is not only a fundamental and cherished part our local history, it is also a hugely important venue for world class concerts, performances and competitions, which put the city on the international cultural stage each year and in turn generate crucial income and investment for Leeds.
“It’s important that we protect and preserve the building whilst also ensuring the facilities on offer are modern, fit for purpose and can continue to welcome audiences for many generations to come.”
The Leeds Town Hall refurbishment is currently scheduled for completion in spring 2026.
Hull City Council is seeking a Design, Build, Operate and Maintain contractor to help deliver the next stage of Hull District Heat Network (HDHN).
The successful tender will deliver Phase 1 of HDHN which will involve providing heat and hot water to more than 40 buildings in Hull city centre.
This will include a variety of council buildings, as well as other public and private sector organisations around the city.
Cllr Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for environment at the council, said: “It is pleasing that Hull District Heat Network has progressed to now be able to appoint a contractor.
“The council remains committed to responding to the climate and nature emergency and Phase 1 of the project will also help the council to achieve its net zero ambitions.”
Law firm Schofield Sweeney, which operates in Leeds, Bradford, and Huddersfield, has welcomed a new cohort of solicitor apprentices and trainees.
The firm advocates social mobility, ensuring its workforce is diverse and inclusive and offers an excellent environment for development and progress. It is also a member of the West Yorkshire Fair Work Charter.
Four new apprentices, chosen from over 140 applicants, are now embarking on a Level 6 apprenticeship programme with BPP, which they will complete in six years’ time.
Simon Glazebrook, partner and apprenticeship principal, said: “These aspiring lawyers have all excelled through the recruitment process and we are really excited to have them on board. They will benefit from the considerable support provided through our structured programme as well as from working closely with experts specialising in different legal disciplines. The firm has already successfully brought solicitors through to, and beyond, qualification through this route and we are committed to, and passionate about, identifying and developing young talent in this way.”
For the first two years of the apprenticeship, Anna Hall will join environmental and regulatory in Leeds, Lucy Sheehan will join real estate in Bradford, Harriet Simon will join contentious probate in Huddersfield, and Florence Wharton will join property litigation in Leeds.
This brings the total number of apprentices across the firm to 13, including apprenticeships in business administration and IT.
Meanwhile, Emily Brown graduated from Northumbria University in 2020 and has been working in-house as a paralegal in the corporate and commercial team at Jet2 for the past two years. She is joining the real estate team in Huddersfield.
Holly Goldsborough-Pike graduated from Newcastle University in 2022 before studying her LPC there. Her first seat will be in the dispute resolution team in Leeds.
Emma Davies has been with Schofield Sweeney since November 2022 as a paralegal in the corporate team in Bradford, through the firm’s ‘foot in the door’ internal recruitment process, she has commenced a training contract in the same team.
Leo Jones-Rowe, partner and training principal, said: “Each of the trainees and solicitor apprentices has already achieved so much to secure their place. I’d like to congratulate them on taking this significant step in their career and welcome them to the firm. We invest a lot of resources to nurture these individuals to become our future partners, and we can’t wait to see them grow and achieve their ambitions with us”.
The Dearne Playhouse is reopening its doors after being transformed into a modern, accessible cultural hub offering more creative opportunities to the community.
The theatre has benefitted from significant investment from the UK Government’s Towns Fund to modernise and upgrade its facilities.
The 101-year-old Playhouse, formerly the Miners’ Welfare Hall, is a cultural cornerstone of the Dearne and its restoration will ensure it continues to be a focal point for the community for generations to come.
Creative groups have already begun using the renewed facilities and a traditional pantomime, Snow White, will be staged in December.
The large-scale refurbishment is part of a £3 million project also benefitting neighbouring Welfare Park.
Work began last year with the replacement of the theatre’s roof and installation of new lighting and technical equipment.
A second phase launched in February and now completed includes:
Transformation of the basement from a storage space into rehearsal rooms and a modern, soundproof music rehearsal studio.
Redecoration of the auditorium, bar and public areas, including sensitive repainting of the Playhouse’s distinctive gold detailing.
Installation of a new stage floor and updates to dressing rooms and backstage areas.
Fitting of energy-efficient LED lighting and a new boiler to reduce running costs.
CCTV funded by the Office of the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner for enhanced security and monitoring by South Yorkshire Police.
Restoration of stonework by professional masons to preserve the building’s historic character.
Installation of a new basement entrance and walkway to ensure the facility is fully accessible.
The Playhouse works, which took seven months to complete, have been carried out by O&P Construction and overseen by Barnsley Council.
Access roads in neighbouring Welfare Park are being resurfaced, pathways restored and new public artwork installed.
Extra car parking has been added, and there are plans for 72 more spaces next to the site, subject to planning approval.
The Playhouse restoration is part of the Goldthorpe Town Deal. This is a package of projects in the Dearne Valley funded by £23.1 million of investment from the UK Government’s Towns Fund.
Matthew Stephens, chair of the Goldthorpe Town Deal Board, said: “The completion of this major refurbishment is a significant milestone in preserving the heritage of Dearne Playhouse while creating new opportunities for community engagement.
“It’s wonderful to see how the investment has rejuvenated this historic venue and provided an amazing space for everyone to come together.
“I am delighted that the works for this fabulous project were undertaken by local contractors, providing jobs for local people.”
Julie Medlam, manager of the Dearne Playhouse, said: “We are thrilled with these works and the possibilities they open up for future community involvement.
“The new facilities will greatly benefit local artists, musicians and theatre groups, making the Playhouse even more vibrant and inclusive.
“I look forward to welcoming everyone back to see it for themselves. We can’t wait to raise the curtain on a new era for our much-loved theatre.”
Cllr Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “The Playhouse is a jewel in Goldthorpe’s crown and it’s inspiring to see it looking better than ever.
“This project shows how investing in our cultural spaces can really boost community spirit and engagement.
“We can’t wait to see the Dearne Playhouse thrive as a centre for creativity and community gatherings.”
The works have already created fresh cultural opportunities: Barnsley Youth Choir East recently rehearsed at the Playhouse and a new theatre company, Dearne Playhouse Musical Theatre Company, will have their HQ in the basement.
Barnsley Youth Theatre are also launching a branch at the playhouse to make the most of the interest in acting among young people in the area.
A project completed by Leeds Beckett University and Aggregate Industries UK (AIUK) is reducing the risk of injuries and increasing productivity and profitability for AIUK – as well as informing best practice around safety in the UK construction materials industry.
The Safety Voice project was a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, part-funded by the Government through Innovate UK. The project aimed to reduce transport-related risk across AIUK’s sites, using an innovative, proactive approach.
The team – including Leeds Beckett psychology experts and a full-time KTP Associate – have created a dynamic toolkit to reduce future incidents and fatalities. This is now being rolled out across the organisation worldwide and creating a safer and healthier place for employees.
AIUK has more than 200 sites and around 3,700 employees across the UK. They are part of the Holcim Group, a global leader in building materials and solutions, operating across 70 countries worldwide.
The project was led by Dr Jim Morgan, Principal Lecturer and Leader of the Psychology Applied to Safety and Health (PASH) research group at Leeds Beckett. Dr Morgan explained: “We have designed and implemented a toolkit, using academic theory and models, which proactively identifies safe and unsafe behaviours within the business.
“This includes a step-by-step process for developing work system redesign – the way work is planned and conducted – and behaviour change programmes. This means AIUK can fully understand the underlying factors that influence their workplace safety and are putting in place strategies to prevent fatalities and reduce future incidents.”
AIUK estimate that – as a direct result of the KTP – they will increase their profits by £8million within the next three years. This is based on predicted cost savings from reduced fatalities and injuries, increased productivity due to work system redesign and reduced injury-related employee absence, and an increase in the number of bids won for new work.
The KTP has now been graded ‘Outstanding’ by independent assessors at Innovate UK – this is the highest possible rating awarded to projects.
A key element of the KTP’s success was Laura Jackson – the full-time Associate recruited to manage the project as a member of the AIUK team, with the support of the Leeds Beckett academic experts. Laura led four research studies, including questionnaires and interviews involving more than 280 drivers, and a highly innovative eye tracking and sleep study.
The Safety Voice Toolkit supports AIUK’s long-term aim to be the safest company in the industry, and to achieve ‘zero harm’ in its workplaces. It will be shared across the UK construction materials industry to inform best practice.
Following the success of the KTP, Laura Jackson has secured a newly-created role at AIUK as Behavioural Safety Business Partner – leading AIUK in their journey to improve behavioural safety across the whole organisation. Laura is also continuing to study for her Masters by Research (MRes) degree at Leeds Beckett University.
Laura said: “To achieve AIUK’s ambitions, they needed the psychological expertise relating to safety and health in the workplace at Leeds Beckett. The targeted and tailored safety behaviour change interventions that we have developed are not something that could be achieved by off-the-shelf consultancy services.
“The KTP has had a significant impact on safety culture at AIUK. I worked hard to gain trust with colleagues, and tactfully engaged stakeholders, to successfully instil core values, foster collaboration, and promote accountability. This has been a genuine ‘bottom up’ approach to zero harm strategy – and is the first step in a long-term shift in how we manage and prioritise safety in the workplace.
“I am now enhancing our strategic safety plan for 2024 onwards, which includes a structured approach to identifying, addressing and preventing unsafe behaviours and conditions.”
Jo Griffiths, Head of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Leeds Beckett University, added: “To have achieved an Outstanding grading for the project is testament to the success of this collaboration between Laura, our academic team, and AIUK.
“We are thrilled with the impact this is creating across the international Holcim Group – and look forward to continuing to make lasting impact for the extensive range of businesses, public sector and third sector organisations we work with through our KTP programme.”
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