An update on the Knottingley Regeneration Programme is set to be discussed by Wakefield Council Cabinet members next week (16 July).
Phase one will see the demolition of the former Kellingley Social Club and existing pavilion, and the building of a new, purpose-built pavilion subject to approval.
The Council is looking at designs for the new, modern pavilion building. It would offer better facilities for the local football club, and other sporting groups that use it, with a bar and function room that will provide the community with a space for events, and gatherings.
There will also be new car parking and landscaping to complement the new facility and wider site.
In September, there will be a further report where Cabinet will be asked to approve the costs to complete phase one.
The majority of people who responded to a public consultation said they thought Knottingley would benefit from a new and modern sport and recreational facility. People also fed back that they supported demolition of the derelict Social Club which is unsafe and impractical to repair.
At their meeting Councillors will also be asked to approve funding for design and infrastructure works to support phase two of the project.
Phase two will look to design and build a new wellbeing hub, with recreational activities and landscaping.
Key stakeholders have fed back on initial designs, and these will be submitted for approval to Cabinet later in the year.
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “We’ve ambitious plans to invest in Knottingley and to deliver fantastic new facilities that residents have asked for.
“We’re pleased that thanks to lots of input from residents and businesses we are pushing forward with these plans. Knottingley is a very important part of our district and we want to deliver the best outcomes for the local community.”
Anglian Water Services Ltd has been ordered to pay more than £50,000 for failing to provide records required by the Environment Agency. The order includes a £25,000 fine, £190 victim surcharge and £25,000 in costs.
Sentencing took place today at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court after the water company was convicted on 24 May 2024.
This is the first conviction of its kind by the Environment Agency against a water company and sets a precedent for the regulation of non-compliant companies.
Since launching the investigation into Anglian Water Service Ltd’s compliance, the Environment Agency has served several statutory requirements for records on the company. Anglian Water Services Ltd has been convicted of failing, without reasonable excuse, to respond to one of these notices, served between dates in January 2022 and January 2023.
Anglian Water Services Ltd had entered a not guilty plea to the charge, claiming that they had a reasonable excuse for non-compliance. Having heard the evidence in the case, District Judge Kenneth Sheraton rejected the water company’s claim.
The case against Anglian Water Services Ltd arose out of a wider criminal investigation involving all ten English water companies looking into potential non-compliance with environmental permit conditions at over 2,000 wastewater treatment works.
The Environment Agency hopes that today’s sentence will help the regulator to bring all water companies into compliance and reduce environmental pollution.
The Official Receiver has announced plans to return £280m to creditors of the Thomas Cook group of companies, the high-street travel chain which went into liquidation in 2019.
Following the collapse of the Thomas Cook group of companies, the Official Receiver has worked across a complex group of liquidations to realise all available assets for the benefit of creditors.
This has included a broad range of assets including the sale of airport slots, hotel investments and high street stores which were owned across the group of companies.
David Chapman, who was appointed by the Court as Official Receiver and Liquidator of the group, said: “I understand that a lot of people lost money following the collapse of Thomas Cook. My team has been working hard to finalise the liquidation, maximising funds which can now be distributed to creditors.
“I would encourage creditors to visit the dedicated Thomas Cook Claims Site to check the position regarding their claim as soon as possible, so we can consider whether they should receive any part of the funds being distributed.“
The Thomas Cook group is made up of 57 different companies in liquidation, not all of which will make payments to creditors and the payments made will be at different rates for each company.
It is expected that eligible creditors will be paid before the end of September 2024.
Motor racing driver Rowan Campbell-Pilling has been uniting Yorkshire businesses on the racetrack to raise cash for charity and compete for a coveted trophy.
Sheffield-based Rowan, a 17-year-old Motorsport UK Academy driver, is a rising star of British motorsport and organised the inter-company karting event at Parkwood Karting in the city.
The two-day event at the outdoor track included teams from a range of businesses including law firms, motor dealerships, engineering businesses and an online retailer.
Gripple, Irwin Mitchell, Cobra Sport, WPA Healthcare, Veezu, H Harrold & Sons and Mattress Online completed the fastest laps and will now compete in the Steel City Cup Final in September.
These teams were joined by Burrows Motor Company, Widd Signs and Monaghans who also competed and contributed to the event and money raised.
Funds raised through the event will be donated to The Children’s Hospital Charity where Rowan is an Ambassador.
Rowan said: “It’s been great to host the first part of our second ever Steel City Cup. It’s been brilliant to bring so many businesses together whilst raising vital funds.
“My family and I know first-hand how important the services at The Children’s Hospital Charity are because I had to use the hospital as a child. Being able to boost the charity’s funds and introduce people to karting is brilliant.”
Rob Gurruchaga, Development Officer from The Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “The event was brilliant and we’re now looking forward to the final in September which will be a hotly contested event.
“Rowan is very supportive of the charity and plays an excellent role as an Ambassador. We’re delighted he’s in our team and the money raised from the event will make a huge difference to the lives of our patients, families and staff.”
Rowan is currently competing in his first Rokit British F4 certified by the FIA Season, driving for the Phinsys by Argenti team. This is seen as the first rung on the ladder towards Formula 1.
He joined the F4 grid following a successful karting career, where he competed in the Daniel Ricciardo Series and IAME X30 in both the junior and senior classes.
The Steel City Cup Final will be held at Parkwood Karting on 12 September. During this, all teams will be welcomed back for a BBQ and networking.
Lincolnshire county council’s Executive has given officers the green light to pursue the necessary legal orders and land acquisitions for the North Hykeham Relief Road project.
The county council’s Executive voted to progress with publishing the legal orders during their meeting on Tuesday 2 July.
Cllr Richard Davies, Executive Member for Highways, said: “This is another huge milestone for the project that brings us one step closer to making the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road a reality.
“The next step is to publish the legal orders and wait while the consultation process is underway. Once the consultation period’s ended, we’ll have a clearer idea of whether a public inquiry will be needed.
“There’s an enormous about of legal paperwork to get through with a road of this size before we can actually start building, but we’re doing all we can to move things along so we can start works late next year.
“In the meantime, the team will also continue working on preparing a full business case for the DfT.”
Construction of the new relief road is expected to start in late 2025 and to be open by late 2028. The cost of the project is currently estimated to be between £180m and £208m.
The North Hykeham Relief Road project will see a new dual carriageway built, linking the A46 Pennells Roundabout to the newly constructed Lincoln Eastern Bypass, creating a complete ring road around the city.
As part of the project, new roundabouts would be built at South Hykeham Road, Brant Road and Grantham Road. A number of bridges would also be constructed, including at Station Road and over the River Witham.
G&H Group, the Leeds-based mechanical, electrical and public health service (MEP) provider, has made eight new appointments to its team following sustained growth.
To further expand its Projects division which delivers independent (MEP) services for schemes typically valued between £50,000 and £1 million, G&H Group has recruited James Hutchinson as head of solar to build its solar photovoltaic (PV) team. Previously operations director for Radius Charge where he was responsible for all project delivery and installation of renewable infrastructure, James has over 20 years’ experience in the electrical engineering sector with 12 years in renewables.
Joining James in G&H Group’s Projects division as mechanical supervisor is 40-year industry veteran, Nick Mundy. G&H Group’s Projects division has extensive experience delivering projects for education facilities such as schools, colleges and multi-academy trusts and Nick will support with work sequence strategy, materials management, and safe methods of working.
G&H Group’s Building Services division has made six new appointments to support the complex, large-scale new build and retrofit schemes in which it specialises. Daniel Gowland joins from JLM M&E as mechanical project manager, leading on projects including Harrogate College, Pudsey Sixth Form and Leeds City Town Hall.
With a career spanning 30 years, most recently at JLM M&E, Darren Hartley joins G&H Group Building Services as electrical estimator for project estimation and delivery. Mohammad Choudhary joins from Waites Mechanical Services as project engineer. In this integral role, Mohammad will be creating programme schedules, forecasting project costs, producing technical submittals, forecasting labour, and managing site labour as well as procuring materials.
Reporting to Building Services (South) operations manager, Paul Cuss, Gearoid McCool, Peter Violet, and Trevor Archer join as senior contracts manager, senior technical services manager, and project manager respectively.
Marc Ambler, group director at G&H Group, said: “With new schemes starting, and an increasing number of enquiries, it’s great to welcome Darren, Mohammad, Daniel, Nick, James, Gearoid, Peter and Trevor to G&H Group. We welcome their skills and expertise and look forward to them further developing their careers.”
Over 3,000 jobs have been saved after a buyer was found for Sheffield’s IPM Group.
Danielle Shore and Ryan Holdsworth from the Sheffield office of insolvency and business turnaround specialists Leonard Curtis, were appointed joint administrators of the company.
Launched in 2006, Intelligent Protection Management Group is an award-winning multi-service security, facilities management and stadium management organisation, which employs over 200 staff in South Yorkshire along with a workforce of more than 3,000 casual workers throughout the country.
Its clients come from both the public and private sectors and include councils, football clubs, the NHS, high street retailers, the catering and hospitality industry, social housing schemes and the leisure industry.
The joint administrators have confirmed that a buyer has been found for the business and that all jobs have been secured.
Danielle Shore said: “This is a great result for the company and for the region’s economy and we are particularly delighted that jobs have been saved now that the company’s future has been assured.
“By recognising the warning signs and seeking professional advice, IPM safeguarded an extremely successful business and ensured its continued success despite some unexpected challenges.
“We are pleased that such a positive outcome has been reached and wish the new owners every success as they take the business forward.”
The administrators were supported by the legal team at Irwin Mitchell and the purchaser was represented by MD Law.
Yorkshire Water has partnered with Bradford-based non-profit organisation Participate Projects, to encourage employees to get involved in community projects.
The partnership will see Yorkshire Water colleagues embarking on a range of volunteering projects from decorating community spaces to building outdoor play areas.
The programme is already under way – Yorkshire Water volunteers have visited Beckfoot Heaton Primary School in Bradford to build a welly shed and New Park Primary School in Harrogate to support indoor and outdoor renovations.
The visit to New Park Primary School comes as work continues on the £19m investment in nearby Killinghall wastewater treatment works to reduce the amount of Phosphorous entering the river Nidd via treated wastewater.
Anne Reed, social value and education advisor at Yorkshire Water, said: “Our colleagues are passionate about helping out in local communities and providing value beyond our water and wastewater services. Investment in our operational sites, such as our project at Killinghall, provides us with an opportunity to go beyond the engineering projects and make a difference to the wider community.
“By partnering with Participate Projects, we’re hoping to increase the frequency of our volunteering events and provide meaningful support to even more organisations and people across Yorkshire.”
Anthony Waddington, CEO at Participate Projects, added: “We are really excited to see Yorkshire Water colleagues’ time and skills make a real impact in the communities where they operate. The passion and enthusiasm we have seen from them in supporting the people and places around them is a great match to the values and mission of Participate.”
Yorkshire law firm Ison Harrison has acquired Cohen Cramer Solicitors, a firm with a presence in Leeds and a national clientele.
Ison Harrison says the move underscores its “commitment to growth, excellence, and its unique value of being an employee-owned business.”
Cohen Cramer has roots dating back to 1980 when Howard Cohen & Co was established. In 2009, the business merged with Cramer Richards, forming Cohen Cramer. It specialises in personal injury, regulatory and criminal law, as well as animal related cases, family law, dispute resolution and legal costs.
With a team of four directors and 27 employees, the firm achieved a turnover exceeding £3 million last year.
This acquisition significantly enhances Ison Harrison’s footprint in the region, bringing the total number of staff to over 300 and solidifying its position with 20 offices across Yorkshire.
Jonathan Wearing, Managing Director of Ison Harrison, says: “This acquisition is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional and accessible legal services across Yorkshire.
“By linking up with Cohen Cramer’s specialist lawyers, we are not only expanding our team but also enhancing our ability to serve our clients with a broader and more robust range of legal services.
“Cohen Cramer’s strengths in regulatory and criminal law perfectly complement our existing capabilities, and their focus on military and animal-related injury claims will significantly enhance our personal injury practice. We are stronger and more versatile than ever before.”
Emma Mason, Managing Director of Cohen Cramer, says: “Joining forces with Ison Harrison is an incredible opportunity for us. The firm’s strong reputation and extensive regional presence will enhance our ability to deliver outstanding service to our clients.
“We are proud to become part of an innovative, employee-owned firm that shares our passion for client-centred legal practice. We are a great fit.”
Views are being sought on how up to £20m should be spent in Keighley, as part of a consultation.
Keighley was one of 75 places around the UK selected to share £1.1billion over the next ten years, as part of the Long-Term Plan for Towns scheme, from the Government’s Levelling Up programme.
The award is in addition to the £33.6m previously granted in 2021 through the Towns Fund. The Keighley Town Board has been set up to oversee both streams of funding and will develop a long-term plan for the Keighley and surrounding ‘Brontë Country’ area.
A consultation, both online and in person, is now under way, seeking local people’s views on:
Improving transport and connections to make travel easier for residents and increase visitor numbers, to boost opportunities for small businesses and create jobs
Tackling crime and anti-social behaviour
Enhancing the town centre to make it more attractive and accessible, including re-purposing empty shops for new housing, improving green spaces and street cleaning
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “This additional investment is testament to the good work of our Towns Fund Board in delivering the £33.6m secured already.
“£20m over ten years will make a difference in the area, but it is important to us to find out how local people want to see the money invested. We’ll initially be looking at the first three years, with a pipeline of projects to follow and there will be further opportunities for people to have their say.”
Chair of the Keighley Town Board Tim Rogers said: “My vision is to use this multi-million pound investment from the public purse to create an environment where the private sector can see a sustainable return on any investment – allowing Keighley to realise its potential in economy, skills, heritage, creativity and transport aspirations.
“In order to do that we need to work together in a truly collaborative way. I really want to hear from people in all communities, and from businesses, schools and colleges in Keighley and the surrounding area on what they want to see.
“This really is our time to shape our own future over the next ten years and beyond and I want to encourage everyone to have their say. We are here to listen and make lasting positive changes for the future.”
The consultation will run until 21st July.
Financial services business volumes grew solidly in the second quarter, building on a strong rebound in Q1, according to the latest CBI Financial Services Survey. Firms expect volumes to increase at an even faster rate over the next three months.
The quarterly survey, conducted between 30 May and 17 June, also showed that optimism increased and headcounts grew for the fifth consecutive quarter. However, profitability fell slightly, and the value of non-performing loans increased for the second consecutive quarter.
Key findings:
Business volumes grew solidly in the quarter to June (weighted balance of +22%) for the second consecutive quarter (+36% in March). Firms expect volumes to increase at an even quicker rate in the next three months (+53%).
Optimism increased in the quarter to June, compared with three months ago (+17% from +29% in March).
Average spreads declined in the quarter to June (-16% from -19% in March) but are expected to increase next quarter (+11%).
The value of non-performing loans increased again in the quarter to June (+11, unchanged from March), seeing the joint-fastest rise since early 2021. However, they are expected to be unchanged over the next quarter (+1%).
Profitability fell slightly in the quarter to June (-5% from +37% in March). The decline is set to be short-lived, with FS firms expecting profitability to increase strongly next quarter (+46%).
Headcount grew in the quarter to June (+18% from +40% in March), but this marked the slowest rise in the five-quarter run of growth seen so far. Firms expect headcount to grow at the same pace next quarter (+18%).
Firms expect to increase investment in IT in the next 12 months (compared to the last 12). However, capital expenditure on land & buildings and vehicles, plant & machinery is expected to fall considerably.
The cost of finance was the most commonly cited factor likely to limit investment over the next 12 months, rising to its second-highest share on record (36% from 11% in March).
The share of firms citing inadequate net returns as a concern fell noticeably from March (22% from 46%), while the proportion citing demand uncertainty also fell sharply (to 16% from 53%).
Louise Hellem, CBI Chief Economist, said: “Financial services firms have seen a second strong quarter in a row this year, with optimism and business volumes continuing to rise. Positive business conditions have supported a further increase in headcount in the sector. However, investment plans remain mixed as concerns around the cost of finance were at their most widespread in nearly a decade.
“Businesses will be looking at the General Election, and the clear mandate given to the incoming government, as a reset moment for the economy. That means looking to the new government to hit the ground running and staying laser-focused on delivering growth. It’s those tough decisions, taken early, that will help us to attract investment, seize growth opportunities and revitalise our pitch to global investors.”
Labour has won the general election in a landslide, with Keir Starmer set to become the new Prime Minister. Following the news, local business leaders have reacted.
Matthew Hill, Head of Commercial Client Services and Head of Dispute Resolution, Raworths Solicitors, said: “Given the serious challenges in recent years presented by Brexit, Covid, the invasion of Ukraine and the challenges of high inflation, business owners have been crying out for some stability.
Matthew Hill
“Whilst a new government of any colour will always involve change, the commercial clients we act for are hoping not only for as much financial certainty as possible but also long-term clarity on the regulatory framework they will be operating in. Support for business and economic growth was high on the agenda during the election campaigns and we are optimistic that words are soon followed by actions.”
Will Matthews, Head of Commercial Research, at global property consultancy Knight Frank, who have Yorkshire offices in Leeds and Sheffield, shared what he expects from a Labour government:
The prospect of a ‘stability dividend’ for the UK
“For a document that focused on ‘change’, the Labour manifesto contained a strong focus on continuity, at least in the fiscal sense. However, that should be good news for anyone still scarred by memories of the 2022 mini-budget, and the spike in bond yields that followed.
Will Matthews
“And if stability seems a modest victory, then one must only look to Europe, where bond yields have risen in response to recent political uncertainty. In the eyes of many global real estate decision makers the UK today looks, arguably, a little more like its pragmatic former self.”
Industrial strategy – but on a budget
“Much has been said of Labour’s industrial strategy, but unlike the Inflation Reduction Act in the US, this is not one of big spending promises, mainly because the fiscal capacity just isn’t there.
“Looking at the manifesto, we can expect a relatively small investment into ports, supply chains, and green industries. Financial services is mentioned in a positive light. Labour has also recognised the importance of life sciences to UK growth, while data centres will be reclassified as nationally significant infrastructure projects, allowing planning decisions to be made by ministers rather than local councils. Critics however, will argue that the plans lack the radical, transformative changes needed to achieve Labour’s ambitious target of the highest sustained economic growth among G7 nations.
“The underlying assumption is that economic and political stability, combined with targeted government backing in specific areas, will be sufficient to entice investors back to the UK, with knock-on effects for real estate demand.”
Planning and infrastructure reform
“Labour wants to streamline the planning system, admittedly with a focus on housing, rather than commercial real estate. The addition of one planning officer per local authority may not move the dial too far, but at least signals intent. The ultimate objective is to unlock more private sector capital, with UK pension funds and insurance companies seen as potential sources of capital for domestic investment, be that in UK PLC, or long term infrastructure projects. This is not a new idea, but one that if implemented well, offers significant promise.
“Several policies mooted should be supportive of the logistics sector. These include the manifesto pledge to invest up to £1.8bn into port infrastructure across the UK, as well as substantial investments in new roads, railways, and other significant infrastructure projects, along with a focus on fixing potholes and upgrading the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.”
Fergus Baille, CEO of Bailie Group, said: “The people have spoken, and Labour has a clear mandate to deliver change. Businesses thrive on clarity, stability, and direction, and with a substantial majority, Sir Keir Starmer is well-positioned to provide the country with the stability it needs.
Fergus Baille
“The proposed roadmap for business operations and the development of an industrial strategy to drive growth are welcome initiatives. A robust Britain is built on a strong economy, and the government now has a prime opportunity to establish an agenda for growth.”
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Executive, said: “Congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party. Delivering sustainable growth should be the defining mission for the new government. Business stands ready to bring its innovation, ideas, and investment to make that shared mission a reality.
Rain Newton-Smith
“The new Prime Minister has been given a clear mandate to take the tough decisions on areas like planning reform and boosting grid capacity needed to get the economy firing on all cylinders. What firms need now is a government that’s ready to hit the ground running and is laser-focused on delivery.
“Households and businesses across the UK have shown incredible resilience through Brexit, Covid and war in Europe. With the economy picking up steam, now is the moment to get behind growth. Setting out a positive vision for the UK economy and leaning into our international leadership should be top priorities for the first 100 days.
“Building a partnership for prosperity between government and business holds the key to unlocking a revitalised pitch to global investors. By working with business, the new government can deploy the capability and capacity of industry to deliver the connected transitions across net zero, the digital economy, and the future of work needed to put the economy on a pathway to sustainable growth.”
Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Tina McKenzie, said: “Congratulations to the new Prime Minister and Government on their decisive election victory, and congratulations to the newly elected MPs from all parties.
Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair at the Federation of Small Businesses
“The clear result of the General Election gives hope that political stability can lead to economic stability and recovery.
“There’s a golden chance in the first 100 days of this new administration to plant the seeds of small business growth, and there are a range of policies FSB hopes the new Government will bring forward.
“These include measures to ease the cost of doing business and support investment and expansion. From tackling poor payment practices by big businesses to their smaller suppliers to reforming the not-fit-for-purpose business rates system.
“The upcoming King’s Speech should include a Small Business Bill to enshrine in legislation much-needed changes to better support small firms and the self-employed.
“Supporting and growing small businesses is good for jobs, good for communities in all parts of the country, and good for the whole economy.
“We’re looking forward to getting down to business and working in partnership with the new Government ministers and their teams – building on how we’ve engaged constructively with them in Opposition. This will ensure that the small business voice is heard clearly and the right actions can be taken to support existing entrepreneurs and encourage new ones.”
Simon Dew
Simon Dew, Development Director, Muse, said: “We have a strong track record of creating mixed-use, sustainable places in partnership with central government and local authorities, and we welcome policies that support our shared commitment to transforming communities across Yorkshire. We look forward to playing our part in delivering affordable, safe and sustainable homes and supporting communities to thrive by delivering major regeneration schemes, at scale and at pace.”
Jennet Siebrits, Head of UK Research, CBRE, said: “We are no longer living under the spectre of an impending election. The Labour party won a landslide victory, securing 412 seats. This gives the party a clear mandate and capability to drive forward its policy priorities and provides investors with clarity.
Jennet Siebrits
“That said, we have found there is no real difference to the overall performance of the UK real estate market, regardless of what political party is in power. Since 1970 we have had Labour-led governments for 19 years and Conservative-led governments for 35 years. Over that time, average economic growth was marginally higher during Conservative rule (2.2%) than under a Labour government (1.9%). This relationship is mirrored in commercial property returns, which, since 1970, averaged 10.5% pa under Conservatives and 10.3% under Labour.
“We have also found that consumer confidence increases in the month following an election over 70% of the time. Such a boost in sentiment will provide a fillip to the economy.
“From a real estate perspective, we particularly welcome the commitment made by the Labour party to reform the planning process. This has been an underlying challenge, with the time taken to get residential planning permission doubling over the last ten years.
“Labour has acknowledged a need to boost housing delivery to 1.5 million homes over the term of this Parliament. Executing a ‘New Towns’ programme will be challenging, requiring an overhaul of the National Planning Policy Framework (which will include redefining the green belt to grey belt) as well as substantial investment. Some first-time buyers also stand to benefit from the proposal to make the mortgage guarantee scheme permanent, who otherwise might not have been able to raise a deposit.
“Other initiatives include plans to drive infrastructure projects, including allocating £1.8 billion to upgrade ports and build supply chains in the UK, and a review of business rates. Collectively, we believe these policies could stimulate activity in the real estate market.”
Sama Investments is to acquire and improve The Pinnacles student accommodation in Sheffield’s canal basin, after securing a £15 million refurbishment loan with lead advisory support from Jerroms Mortgage & Finance.
With Sheffield Hallam University close by, and public transport links offering connections to the rest of the city, The Pinnacles offers a variety of 2, 3, 4, and 5 bedroom ensuite flats.
Mark Flower and Paul O’Reilly, both from Jerroms Mortgage and Finance, worked closely with Hampshire Trust Bank to secure the loan which will enable Sama Investments to carry out work to upgrade the 600-bedroom building, modernising internal areas and remediating cladding work in order to improve the overall environment, social and governance (ESG) efficiency of the building.
Mark Flower, Jerroms Mortgage & Finance, said: “We are delighted to have advised and supported Sama Investments throughout the fund-raising process. It was a pleasure to work with the team at Hampshire Trust Bank, who have a reputation for successfully backing high-quality PBSA developments.
“This project demonstrates our ongoing dedication to supporting PBSA initiatives throughout the UK. We wish Sama Investments the very best for the future and look forward to watching the project progress.”
Bilal Ahmed, CEO, Sama Investments, said: “I should like to thank Mark Flower and Paul O’Reilly from Jerroms Mortgage and Finance for their resolute support throughout the fund-raising process. It was a pleasure to work with them and their unwavering dedication, professionalism and knowledge was fundamental in us securing the required financing. We look forward to making this student block refurbishment a reality.”
Keir Starmer is set to become the new Prime Minister after a landslide general election win for Labour.
It follows 14 years leading the country for the Conservatives, which saw major losses on election night, while Labour smashed the number of seats required for a majority. The Liberal Democrats also saw significant gains, while Nigel Farage became an MP as leader of Reform UK, and the Greens saw a good performance.
A number of high profile Conservatives saw themselves lose out, including previous Prime Minister Liz Truss, Grant Shapps, Penny Mordaunt, and Jacob Rees-Mogg. Rishi Sunak, however, held his seat in Richmond and Northallerton.
This morning Keir Starmer said to a cheering crowd: “We did it.
“You campaigned for it. You fought for it. You voted for it and now it has arrived. Change begins now.”
Work has completed on a new £10m care home in Haxby, approximately four miles north of York city centre.
With 63 en-suite bedrooms, Haxby Hall has been developed by Brough-headquartered Yorkare, which now has 12 homes in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, with five more currently under construction.
This latest development was built by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, and is the eighth project the company has completed for Yorkare since 2015.
Facilities at Haxby Hall include an in-house bar, restaurant standard dining rooms, full beauty salon and hairdressing suite, cinema and outdoor terraces on each floor. There are also large gardens and a bowling green.
Nicola Anderson, marketing and community engagement manager from Yorkare, said: “We’re delighted to welcome our first residents into their new homes at Haxby Hall and everyone has been blown away by the facilities and overall quality that flows through the entire development.
“Every bedroom is designed to be spacious with superb décor and exceptional interiors. All the ground-floor bedrooms have doors leading out to private patio areas and our premium suites have their own lounge areas and these are already proving popular with both couples and individuals.
“Yorkare’s whole ethos is about combining safe and luxurious living environments alongside engaging social activities that are delivered by our dedicated care teams, activity co-ordinators and highly skilled chefs. Haxby Hall ticks all these boxes and more.”
Mark Smee, from Hobson & Porter, said: “We’re very proud to complete our eighth project for Yorkare in less than 10 years. Every detail at Haxby Hall, from the grand water fountains in the landscaped gardens to the magnificent communal areas, has been impeccably designed and speaks volumes about the standard of the whole development.
“It’s more akin to a five-star hotel than a care home and there’s no doubt it’s going to be a very special place for residents to live as they start the next chapter of their lives.”
Chloe Hayles, broking manager at professional services firm Aon, has been appointed chairperson of The Insurance Institute of Leeds Emerging Insurance Professional (EIP) Committee.
28-year-old Chloe was elected to succeed former chairperson Isaac Pollitt following a majority vote from her fellow committee members.
The EIP provides tailored continuous professional development (CPD), networking and social events for its members who are all under 40 years of age.
Over the next year, Chloe will be responsible for ensuring the EIP continues to serve Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Leeds members, by providing education, career development, networking opportunities, and social events.
Chloe Hayles, broking manager at Aon, said: “It’s an honour to have been selected as chairperson of the Emerging Insurance Professionals in Leeds and I am determined to make a positive impact for young professionals within the financial industry.
“I have over 10 years’ experience within the insurance industry and the support offered by my colleagues and the continuous professional development provided by my employer, Aon, has ensured I have enjoyed a fulfilling career. I am keen to draw on my own experience and ensure that our members are provided with the support and opportunity to network to further their careers too.
“As part of our fundraising activity, we have already attended a charity afternoon at Lineham Farm Children’s Charity and have a series of further charity, social and educational events planned this year. Along with the rest of the committee, I am looking forward to welcoming and supporting current and new members.”
Hull City Council is urging businesses to act responsibly when managing the disposal of waste, to avoid being fined or prosecuted.
The warning comes after Ideal Centre Hull Limited was prosecuted in Hull Magistrates’ Court last month (June) after being found guilty of fly-tipping waste on Beverley Road, in October 2023.
The business was convicted of offences contrary to section 34(5) Environmental Protection Act 1990 and section 34(1)(c) Environmental Protection Act 1990 and were ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £301 and obtained a criminal record.
Doug Sharp, head of street cleansing and waste management at Hull City Council, said: “Fly-tipping is a crime that we do not tolerate in Hull. It is unsightly, potentially harmful to human health, and damaging to the environment.
“There is no excuse for businesses to not have lawful arrangements in place or for fly-tipping their waste.
“Everyone, including businesses, have a responsibility to look after our local environment and help tackle fly-tipping. By taking such a tough stance on enforcement action, we can deter any potential offenders.”
Plans have been submitted by Brierley Homes for a 34-home scheme that will help preserve a North Yorkshire village’s past while building for its future.
The plan involves transforming the former council highways depot in West Ayton, near Scarborough.
Known as Forge Valley, it will see the conversion of an historic engine shed and station house, enabling the site to retain its proud heritage.
West Ayton is located at the gateway to the North York Moors and is an attractive proposition for home buyers, with its picturesque setting on the banks of the River Derwent, commuting potential, local amenities, and a primary school in nearby East Ayton.
If given the go-ahead, the development will feature a selection of one, two, three and four-bed properties, consisting of maisonettes, terraced houses, semi-detached and detached homes.
The site was previously home to the Forge Valley railway station. However, the line closed to passenger trains in 1950.
Rather than demolish the station house, designers have opted to convert it into four one-bed flats. The engine shed, meanwhile, is set to become a new community facility.
Brierley Homes’ Managing Director, Stuart Ede, said: “Opportunities such as this don’t come along every day. Preserving the county’s past is important and we are delighted to have been able to make the station house and engine shed integral parts of the plan.
“This scheme will help breathe new life into some of the old railway station features and will also give the community a great space that will enhance the village as a whole.”
Affordable housing will make up 30 per cent of the scheme, with properties built to the latest environmental standards. Their design will be in keeping with other developments locally.
If granted planning permission, construction is scheduled to begin in the autumn.
York Business School has partnered with award-winning arts and culture organisation Aesthetica to deliver a new business skills training programme. The Creative Business Skills Bootcamp will offer start-ups a progression route into the creative industries, whilst supporting them to develop and launch their business. York is one of 25 cities in the world to hold a UNESCO City of Media Arts designation. The partnership aims to leverage this status to encourage more start-up businesses, create more jobs, alongside talent and skills development in the region.Free to attend, the 12 week course includes a series of workshops and masterclasses specifically aimed at start-ups. Attendees will be offered 12 months free rent at the Enterprise Centre on the York St John University campus to support that crucial first year in business. Applications were encouraged from creatives across architecture, film, fine art, gaming, extended reality (XR), textiles, fashion and more. Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica, said: “The idea for the Creative Business Skills Bootcamp was developed in response to Aesthetica celebrating its 20th anniversary. The company was founded in 2003 when Co-Director Dale Donley and I were students at York St John University. “Since then the company has expanded to include a portfolio of publications and events, such as the BAFTA-qualifying Aesthetica Film Festival and the Aesthetica Art Prize, along with the Reignite series of events in York.“It was a big moment and a time of reflection in which I looked at the development of Aesthetica from a student idea into an international brand across media arts. I thought about the ups and the downs, and the resilience it takes to launch, sustain and grow a business in the creative industries. “I want to do what I can to help new start-ups in the sector, leverage our UNESCO City of Media Arts designation, develop skills and training opportunities and take our region and city to new heights. This is just the beginning.” Dr Brendan Paddison, Interim Dean and Associate Professor of York Business School, added: “Working with Aesthetica on developing the Creative Business Skills Bootcamp brings a high level of expertise and knowledge to the city. “At York Business School we are proud to support the development of Creative Industries in York, leveraging our global UNESCO City of Media Arts designation, as we push ahead in furthering our engagement across all sectors of the business community.”The Creative Business Skills Bootcamp will include workshops and training on branding, marketing, project management, developing income streams, networking, accountancy, legal, HR, sales, negotiation, business planning, scaling and growth. Speakers include Pablo Ettinger (Founder, Café Nero), Edward Twiddy (Founder, Atom Bank), Helen Marriage (CEO, Artichoke), Helena Jones (Ay-Pe), Cherie Federico (Aesthetica), Kit Monkman (Viridian FX) and more.
Associated British Ports has appointed Laura Wood as the new Head of Commercial to lead the team responsible for the port operator’s customer relationships central to Keeping Britain Trading across its four Humber ports of Grimsby, Immingham, Goole and Hull.
Laura joins the Humber team after working as Business Development Manager across ABP’s portfolio looking at opportunities for the energy transition, fuels of the future and products of the future. The role involved working closely with senior stakeholders across both business and government to build partnerships to progress complex projects in areas like alternative fuels and carbon capture.
Simon Bird, Regional Director of the Humber said: “We are delighted to welcome Laura to the Humber. She brings with her a wealth of expertise and skills to the role, and has already had an established background in the ports sector before she joined ABP.
“Laura’s appointment is the next step in a refreshed, focused and reinvigorated Commercial team.”
Laura said: “It’s exciting to be heading up the dynamic Humber Commercial team who are experienced across multiple sectors and focused on delivering customer solutions.
“I am also looking forward to working alongside our property team and optimising what we can do in the port to bring customers supply chain solutions that combine ABP’s unrivalled land holdings, operational experience and port infrastructure.
“ABP have shown real commitment to supporting me in developing my career including through maternity leave. My experience is that they have broken the mould when it comes to supporting women in their careers.”
Laura used to work at the Port of Immingham when she brought the hydrogen fuelled Terberg terminal tractor project to the container terminal. The joint pilot project received funding from ORE Catapult through Innovate UK’s Hydrogen Innovation Initiative, following funding of initial feasibility from the Department for Transport’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition.
Before working for ABP Laura worked for Peel Ports at the Port of Liverpool where she worked in the commercial team helping to boost freight volumes using the Manchester Ship Canal and has also worked for Frontier, the UK’s leading crop production and grain marketing business, for several years.
Laura is keen after coming out of a long-term strategic view to look at long term solutions for customers integrating her green energy experience to create opportunities for ABP and customers to meet targets.
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