Property firm promotes four

Tess Egginton
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Property firm promotes four

Four commercial property professionals have been promoted at Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co.

Daniel Walker, Tom Preene and Matt Harriman have all become directors, and David Geary has been made an associate. The promotions follow the firm’s recent expansion into bigger city centre offices at Carlton Tower on St Paul’s Street and the company’s twentieth anniversary celebrations.

Daniel works within the agency and investment team. He joined the business in 2012, completed a degree alongside his day job in 2017, and became a chartered member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 2019.

Daniel said: “Every day is different, dealing with lettings, acquisitions, investment sales and advising on long term strategic development sites. Recent highlights include the work we have done on employment allocation for Integral, a 60-acre scheme at Thorpe Park, the £25m acquisition of Total Park, Leeds and advising on the lettings of 285,000 sq ft at Catalyst, Sheffield Business Park.

“We are optimistic about the market and can clearly see an increase in positive sentiment. Occupiers can understandably take their time making decisions, but there is a definite sense of market confidence returning, after the recent downturn in activity, which followed a very busy few years.”

Tom works in lease advisory and asset management. He joined GV&Co in 2022 having spent six years at a global property firm and is responsible for negotiating rent reviews and lease renewals on behalf of both landlords and tenants.

He said: “The industrial market continues to perform well with headline rents reaching record levels and I’m looking forward to growing this side of the business further, as more landlords and tenants recognise the value that we add.”

Matt works in building surveying and project management. He joined GV&Co as a graduate ten years ago when the department was first established, and since then it has grown to a seven-strong team, with an enviable client base.

Matt said: “I really enjoy working on a diverse spectrum of commercial property across multiple sectors, and have keen interest in contract administration, dilapidations and acquisition surveys.

“In the last twelve months, I’ve managed over £3m worth of commercial refurbishments and successfully negotiated over £1m of dilapidations. As a director, I’ll be more involved with helping to manage the team and mentoring colleagues, as well as continuing to drive the department forward.

“Upcoming changes to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) legislation is the hot topic at the moment and with a fundamental understanding of building efficiency upgrade costs, we are well positioned to advise clients on improving EPC ratings to ensure assets remain attractive to both occupiers and institutional investors.”

David Geary joined GV&Co’s building surveying and project management team eight years ago and has successfully completed a Masters (MSc) in Building Surveying during that time. David project manages construction projects across all sectors, as well as carrying out condition surveys and negotiating dilapidations claims.

David said: “I really enjoy my role at GV&Co. I’m heavily involved in refurbishment schemes, predominantly around Yorkshire and the Midlands, but I have recently completed a large-scale refurbishment of a Grade A listed building in the centre of Edinburgh.

“The building is now fully let to multiple occupiers and holding its own in a prime part of the city. On a local level, the market is busy in the world of building surveying and the pipeline until the end of 2024 is strong.”

Plans lodged for retirement living development in Baildon

Tess Egginton
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Plans lodged for retirement living development in Baildon
Developer and manager of retirement communities, McCarthy Stone, has submitted plans to Bradford Metropolitan District Council for the redevelopment of land at the former Ian Clough Hall, Baildon. The proposals are for retirement living accommodation, specifically designed to meet the need of people in later life and would represent the regeneration of a brownfield site. The scheme will deliver a sensitively designed development of 47 apartments, featuring a homeowners’ lounge and set amongst attractive, landscaped gardens with on-site parking provision. There will also be a guest suite, lift access to all floors and a mobility scooter charging and storage room. Ahead of submitting a planning application, McCarthy Stone carried out a public consultation with the local community on its initial proposals. Ciaran Aldridge, Divisional Managing Director North, McCarthy Stone said: “There is a real need for specialist retirement accommodation in Baildon, and this proposal would go some way to addressing that, whilst at the same time releasing existing family homes onto the market and relieving the pressure on local greenfield sites. “Located close to the town centre, McCarthy Stone residents provide a vital boost to local businesses, typically using local shops and services daily, or often. “Research shows that residents of a typical 47-home McCarthy Stone development would collectively spend £362,000 a year on the local high street. This spending would support local retail jobs and help to keep businesses open in Baildon.” McCarthy Stone’s plans will be determined by Bradford Metropolitan District Council in the coming months.

Yorkshire & Humber firms remain confident despite challenging business conditions

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire & Humber firms remain confident despite challenging business conditions

Although the headline NatWest Yorkshire & Humber PMI® Business Activity Index – a seasonally adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors – rose for the first time since the beginning of the year from 46.9 in March to 47.3 in April, it remained below the 50.0 no-change mark, making the region the only monitored part of the UK to see private sector output shrink at the start of the second quarter.

The decrease in the region’s economic activity contrasted starkly with the UK-wide trend, which signalled the fastest expansion in a year.

Notably, Yorkshire & Humber was the worst-performing part of the UK, both in terms of business activity and new orders, as was also the case in the previous month. That said, business confidence remained strong, while employment levels across the region were only marginally reduced, despite widespread reports of intensifying wage pressures.

The level of new business received by private companies in Yorkshire & Humber continued to shrink in April. The rate of decline was fractionally faster than that seen in March, and was therefore the quickest since November last year.

Weak client confidence was linked to the reduction in sales, while some respondents commented on generally subdued demand conditions across various industries.

Notably, Yorkshire & Humber was one of just two parts of the UK to see a drop in new business, with the region also seeing the quickest fall.

The Future Activity Index posted well above the 50.0 no-change mark, signalling robust growth expectations by private sector firms in Yorkshire & Humber during April. New product releases, strategic business changes and forecasts of greater customer numbers underpinned optimism, anecdotal evidence showed.

Although the level of positive sentiment dipped to a three-month low, it was slightly stronger than seen for the UK on average.

Continuing the trend which began in February, private sector businesses in Yorkshire & Humber cut their workforce numbers during the latest survey period. The non-replacement of leavers was commonly noted as a reason for lower staffing capacity, anecdotal evidence showed.

However, the decrease in employment was only marginal overall. This compared with broadly unchanged staffing levels at the broader UK level.

Posting below the 50.0 no-change threshold for a fourteenth successive month in April, the seasonally adjusted Outstanding Business Index signalled a sustained reduction in the volume of work pending completion at private sector companies in Yorkshire & Humber.

Furthermore, the latest data pointed to a solid decrease in backlogs of work, and one that was the quickest of all 12 monitored parts of the UK.

Private sector companies in Yorkshire & Humber recorded a further steep month-on-month increase in their overall operating costs in April. Moreover, the rate of inflation quickened markedly from March to its highest in a year. Greater wage pressures were reported by survey respondents, in addition to higher costs associated with raw materials, fuel, insurance and the distribution of goods.

Prices charged for the provision of goods and services continued to be raised by companies in Yorkshire & Humber, latest survey data showed. In many cases, selling prices were lifted to offset the impact on margins from greater costs. That said, the extent to which output charges rose was moderate and the slowest for three months.

Yorkshire & Humber recorded the second-softest rate of selling price inflation of the 12 monitored parts of the UK, with only the North West seeing a slower pace of increase.

Malcolm Buchanan, Chair of the NatWest North Regional Board, said: “April marked yet another challenging month for the Yorkshire & Humber private sector, which was once again the only part of the UK to see a decrease in business activity.

“That said, April data was better with the rate of contraction slowing since March. Positively, growth expectations remain above UK trend and with economic conditions domestically and abroad improving, this should provide tailwinds for growth in the coming months.”

Barnsley pub gets new lease of life as part of Heineken’s £39m investment

Stuart Pearcey
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Barnsley pub gets new lease of life as part of Heineken’s £39m investment
Heineken UK is investing £39m in upgrading and reopening pubs in its Star Pubs’ estate this year in a move which it says demonstrates its confidence in the resilience of the great British local in the face of global uncertainty. The move will create an estimated 1,075 new jobs. More than 600 of Heineken UK’s 2,400 pubs are in line for improvement, with 94 of these set for makeovers costing on average £200,000. The investment will also cover works to reopen 62 long-term closed locals in 2024. By the end of the year, the company will have reopened 156 such pubs since the start of 2023, reducing the number of closed pubs in its estate to pre-pandemic levels. Amongst those given a new lease of life is The Ship at Worsbrough near Barnsley. A £370k refurbishment reopened The Ship earlier this year after a four-and-a-half year closure, creating 11 jobs. As well as being a pub, The Ship holds coffee mornings for senior citizens, care home residents and mother & toddler groups and has football, darts and pool teams. It also puts on charity fundraisers and provides meeting space for local groups. In the evenings, there are weekly quiz, bingo, karaoke and live music nights. New licensee Rebecca Skelly said: “The Ship needed a complete facelift to get customers back – a lick of paint wouldn’t have cut it. The smart new design has been key to converting residents into regulars. The Ship is proof of the need and demand for traditional locals. It’s part of the town’s history. Everyone comes here, from families with children to retirees – it’s a social hub, especially for the neighbourhood’s senior citizens, many of whom sat at home alone before The Ship opened again.” Lawson Mountstevens, Star Pubs’ MD, said: “People are looking for maximum value from visits to their local. They want great surroundings and food and drink as well as activities that give them an extra reason to go out, such as sports screenings and entertainment. Creating fantastic locals that can accommodate a range of occasions meets this need and helps pubs fulfil their role as vital third spaces where communities can come together. “Pubs have proved their enduring appeal; after all the disruption of recent years, Star is on track to have the lowest number of closed pubs since 2019. It’s a tribute to the drive and entrepreneurship of licensees and the importance of continued investment. We’ve spent more than £200m upgrading and maintaining our pubs over the last five years, and we’ll continue to invest to keep them open and thriving. “Time and again we see the value consumers place on having a good local and how important it is to communities. Well-invested pubs run by great licensees are here to stay, but like all locals, they need Government support to reduce the enormous tax burden they shoulder.”

Tram disruption ahead as VolkerRail improves infrastructure in Sheffield

Stuart Pearcey
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Tram disruption ahead as VolkerRail improves infrastructure in Sheffield
Multi-million pound investment work to future-proof and extend the lifespan of the Supertram network will take place for nine days from 24 May. The first phase of rail replacement engineering work will start in Sheffield city centre from after the last tram on the evening of Friday 24 May until start of service on Monday 3 June, and will affect all tram and Tram Train services. Further works are planned in other areas of the tram network over the summer. During the works, carried out by contractor VolkerRail, no tram services will be able to operate between Fitzalan Square/Ponds Forge and University. Melanie Corcoran, Executive Director of Transport at SYMCA, said: “These essential works are vital to extend the lifespan of the Supertram network. Every effort is being made to minimise the impact and to keep people moving while this work progresses. “By replacing the track we’re making sure the region’s tram network can continue to safely provide its popular service for generations to come.” In addition, works will be carried out at Netherthorpe Road tram stop to replace the tram shelters. To ensure the health and safety of both the passengers and site workers, the platform will be closed throughout the works. Trams will not serve Netherthorpe Road tram stop and will, instead, run directly between University and Shalesmoor tram stops, in both directions.

Sewell Group named as one of UK’s best places to work – again

Stuart Pearcey
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Sewell Group named as one of UK’s best places to work – again

East Yorkshire-based estates and retail business the Sewell Group has been named one of the UK’s best companies to work for in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 list.

The list, which covers businesses from across the country, finds the best companies to work for by measuring staff feedback on factors including reward and recognition, information sharing, empowerment, wellbeing, pride and job satisfaction. Sewell Group Chair Paul Sewell said: “They say you have to be a great place to work to be a great company to deal with. Our aim has always been to nurture, reward and develop our talent, so they can serve our customers in an elite and sustainable way. We set standards to be a place where the best want to be and the aspirational can reach their full potential. “The Sunday Times Best Places to Work is a list based on what our people say, which is why, for me, this is the best accolade we could receive. “It’s an honour and a privilege to be in this prestigious listing and thanks go to all our staff, customers and partners who have helped us continue to grow and thrive.” Data and Information Analyst Achyut Ratkanthiwar started work with the company last year, and said working for Sewell Group has been a different experience from his previous workplaces. “I love the way people at Sewell Group support each other. When someone does well, everyone celebrates their success, and when someone has a problem, we all rally round to help. It’s a great working environment, and I’m really glad that’s been recognised at a national level.” Tracy Hunt, Hot Food Supervisor from one of Sewell on the go’s stores agreed, saying:“I’ve been working for Sewell Group for more than five years, and I’m still amazed by how friendly and helpful everyone is, from trainees right up to senior management. I’ve been given the freedom and responsibility to manage my own projects, and I know that the rest of the team always have my back if I need help.” Chris Longcroft of The Times and The Sunday Times, said: “All organisations are only as good as the people they employ and retain. The Sunday Times Best Places to Work awards recognise companies that are innovating to create an engaged and fulfilling working environment for all and in so doing they are creating the best possible platform for business success. To be named on The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list is a true recognition of excellence and I congratulate those organisations who made the grade this year.” Sewell Group has two arms, with award-winning fuel station and convenience store operator Sewell on the go, and a range of estates businesses working across investments, construction, facilities management, consultancy and data mapping. The company has made the list consistently over the past 15 years, with the result being determined through surveys with those who matter – the people that work there.

Broadband provider to sponsor children’s literary event

Stuart Pearcey
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Broadband provider to sponsor children’s literary event
Hessle-based Hull Fibre is to sponsorship of The Big Malarkey Festival 2024, a literary event for children returning to East Park in June, promising a wide range of engaging activities and attractions. Young literature enthusiasts will have the opportunity to engage in creativity, music, art, writing, and storytelling as The Big Malarkey Festival makes its way back to Hull this summer. Following a week of activities geared towards schools, the festival will open its doors to families on Saturday, June 22nd, and Sunday, June 23rd, at East Park. Attendees can look forward to a captivating lineup of reading-themed entertainment and interactive experiences. The festival is making a comeback after its highly successful debut in 2017, which drew more than 8,000 participants to East Park.

Water companies plan new reservoir in response to threat of demand outstripping supply

Stuart Pearcey
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Water companies plan new reservoir in response to threat of demand outstripping supply
Anglian Water and Cambridge Water have released an artist’s impression of the proposals for a new reservoir in the Fens. Projections from the Met Office show that the East of England will become hotter and drier in summer, and wetter in winter, meaning that there is a pressing need to store winter water to cope with summer droughts. Unless bold action is taken, say the water companies, the demand for water will outstrip the available supply within the next decade, making the reservoir project vital for the continued growth and prosperity of the region. The proposed reservoir in the Fens is part of a multi-billion investment programme from Anglian Water, with the water company currently building a network of strategic pipelines to bring water from wetter to drier parts of the region, which will help to secure water supplies while two new reservoirs are being built (the other proposed to be located in Lincolnshire). Geoff Darch, Head of Supply Demand at Anglian Water said: “In a future with more people but less reliable rainfall the reservoir will have a crucial role to provide future water supply. However, our aspiration goes beyond a reservoir for public water supply. Our intention is to design a reservoir that the local community can be proud of, and that will encourage people to visit and enjoy its surroundings. “The reservoir will benefit the local environment, creating new opportunities for nature to flourish, as well as contributing to the health and wellbeing of the community and boosting the local economy. It could also serve as an educational hub, using the reservoir to teach future generations about how water shapes our lives and the environment. The success of our existing water parks like Rutland and Grafham Water are testament to the positive impact sites like these have for the surrounding community as well as well as boosting the local economy.” The reservoir would allow Anglian Water and Cambridge Water to collect excess river water in winter, when flows are at their highest, and store it for use in dry summers, when water is scarcer. This would reduce the reliance on sensitive ground water sources such as chalk streams, helping to protect and restore the environment. In the future, the reservoir could be home to a range of recreational activities, including fishing, water sports and bird watching. And, through the design of its embankments, could also provide new walking and cycling routes to be enjoyed by the local community and visitors. Anglian Water’s other reservoirs, including Rutland Water and Grafham Water, welcome more than two million people each year, with the proposed Fens site also looking to create more jobs and stimulate tourism in the region. A second phase of public consultation on the reservoir proposals, which will take place from 30 May to 25 July. Over the eight-week consultation period, the water companies will be asking for feedback on the proposed design and the associated water infrastructure required to fill the reservoir, treat the water, and transport it to homes and businesses. Prior to the commencement of the public consultation, the companies are engaging with property and landowners who may be impacted by the proposals.

£10m investment sees Mayor kickstart “region of learning”

Tess Egginton
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£10m investment sees Mayor kickstart “region of learning”
People facing barriers to employment will benefit from over £9.5 million to help them get the skills they need to secure well-paid work. Fresh from her re-election as the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin has announced the £10 million package to “make life easier for those who find it the hardest.” This funding will help those struggling to secure good jobs because of their age, health condition, disability, or difficult personal circumstances. It follows a high-profile election pledge to build a “region of learning and creativity” for all, where everyone in the region is spurred on to follow their passions in life, and lifted up to reach their full potential. Those set to benefit from six new projects include single parents, people with low digital skills, people who have faced discrimination because of their ethnicity, and people with criminal convictions. Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “There are too many people at a disadvantage when it comes to finding and keeping work, so I’m delighted to get these new initiatives off the ground as part of our focus on a region of learning. “I want everyone in West Yorkshire to have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their personal circumstances. “Providing tailored support for people to smash down the barriers they face will help us to grow our economy and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.” Part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the six new initiatives aim to reduce inequalities, raise living standards, and grow the economy, while boosting confidence, skills and knowledge throughout the communities of West Yorkshire.

Construction company director given suspended prison sentence

Tess Egginton
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Construction company director given suspended prison sentence
The director of a Leeds-based construction firm who failed to keep up-to-date accounting records and explain why his company spent more than £800,000 on over 100 vehicles has been given a suspended prison sentence. Eugenijus Nalivaika was sentenced to 15 months in prison, suspended for 18 months, when he appeared at Leeds Crown Court on Friday 3 May. He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £4,714.30. The 46-year-old pleaded guilty to failing to keep accounting records when he was director of Niki Contractors Ltd at a hearing in February. Nalivaika, of Charlton Road, Leeds, was also disqualified as a company director for seven years in January in separate civil proceedings brought by the Insolvency Service. Mark Stephens, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: “Eugenijus Nalivaika enjoyed the benefits of limited liability while running his business without accepting the responsibilities that come with it. “Directors must ensure proper records are kept, filed and preserved. This is to protect consumers and other businesses who have dealings with the company.

“Nalivaika failed to do this and this sentence sends a strong signal to the business community that such a blatant disregard for keeping your accounts up-to-date will not be tolerated.”

Nalivaika was appointed as sole director of Niki Contractors in January 2020. The company had been trading since December 2016 with different directors in charge. Niki Contractors was wound-up just over a year into Nalivaika’s directorship in May 2021 due to mounting debts. Investigations by the Insolvency Service revealed Niki Contractors made more than 4,300 payments to 614 people labelled ‘wages’ between April 2020 and January 2021. The total cost of these payments was more than £3.7 million. Niki Contractors also made 106 payments totalling £869,670 to purchase vehicles, mainly older commercial vans, between July 2020 and January 2021. More than £4.5 million was paid to Niki Contractors from other companies in the same period. Nalivaika failed to explain any of the payments and did not deliver company records to the Insolvency Service or the liquidator when requested. Niki Contractors was liquidated with liabilities of more than £2.5 million. Nalivaika’s breaches have prevented the liquidator from being able to investigate the company’s accounts.

Experienced property professional joins Zenko

Tess Egginton
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Experienced property professional joins Zenko

Independent Leeds-based residential sales and lettings agency, Zenko Properties, has appointed highly experienced property professional, Jacqui Pringle, as head of operations, property management and compliance.

Jacqui, who brings more than 18 years’ experience to the newly created role, said: “I worked with Leeds city living pioneer, Jonathan Morgan, for more than five years at Morgans City Living, which was ultimately sold to Linley & Simpson, and then retired and moved to Cumbria.

“I really missed working in property in Leeds however, and when the opportunity arose to work at Zenko Properties, I jumped at it. It’s such an exciting time for the business and with new, bigger offices opening in the heart of Leeds city centre, I’m really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead and to playing my part in the growth of what is a very ambitious, but grounded team.”

Partner, Jonathan Morgan said: “Jacqui played an integral role during her time at Morgans, and her unmatched experience levels and unique skill sets will free up Zenko’s directors, and specifically managing director, Tobias Duczenko, to focus on business growth, whilst Jacqui takes care of the day-to-day business operations. Jacqui was our first choice for the role, and we’re delighted to have her on board.’’

Managing director, Tobias Zenko, said: “We aim to become the go to residential agent of choice in Leeds city centre and bringing Jonathan and now Jacqui into the business will help us to achieve this ambition.

“We have an impressive reputation in the city centre market for being a reliable and first-rate lettings agent and property manager, and currently manage more than 700 properties, as well as offering residential sales and specialist property investment services.”

Zenko Properties was founded in Leeds city centre in 2015 by Tobias Duczenko. Jonathan Morgan joined Zenko as a partner in 2023 and Jacqui’s appointment will see team numbers bolstered to 10.

Hull College celebrates success at Humber Renewables Awards 2024

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Hull College celebrates success at Humber Renewables Awards 2024
Hull College has been crowned winner of the Excellence in Renewable Education, Skills, and Training award at the prestigious Humber Renewables Awards 2024. Now in its twelfth year, the awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of businesses and individuals in advancing the renewable energy sector within the Humber region, renowned as the UK’s Energy Estuary. The gala dinner event, staged in partnership with the Offshore Wind Conference, was held at Hull’s Doubletree by Hilton Hotel on Thursday 2nd May. As the Humber solidifies its reputation as a leader in renewable energy and embraces zero- carbon ambitions, Hull College’s award win in the Renewable Education, Skills, and Training category underlines its commitment to advancing renewable energy education. Recognising the critical need for specialised knowledge in this sector, the college has developed an extensive suite of bespoke courses in sustainability and renewable energy, working in collaboration with over 100 leading businesses in the sector. This initiative has resulted in more than 2,600 students completing training across 11 different courses, ranging from introductory sustainability to advanced courses in heat pumps and renewable transport, all of which have been in addition to their main study programme. Reflecting on the award win, Nick Marshall, Head of Engineering and Advanced Motor Vehicle at Hull College, said: “We are honoured to be recognised for our dedication to advancing renewable education and skills training in the Humber region. “At Hull College, we are committed to providing forward-thinking education that empowers our students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the ever-evolving renewable energy sector. “Collaborating closely with local businesses and organisations is integral to our approach. By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we ensure our students are well-prepared for tomorrow’s challenges today. “As we forge ahead, our vision is to establish the college as a beacon of renewable energy education in the Humber. We aspire to nurture the next generation of innovators who will shape a greener, more sustainable world for generations to come.” Hull College has recently launched an exciting new Foundation Degree in Renewable Energies and Technologies – and applications are now open. The two-year course will begin in September 2024 and will run at the college’s Queen’s Gardens campus. From wind turbine dynamics to hydroelectric training rigs, wave energy units, geothermal units, and solar hydrogen cycle trainers, students will gain the knowledge and skills they need to embark on a career in the exciting and dynamic world of renewable energy. In addition, the college also offers a Welding and Fabrication for Renewable Industries qualification for both school leavers and adults, providing specialised training in MAG manual metal arc welding, alongside oxyfuel gas cutting and plasma cutting. For more information about these new courses and how to apply, visit www.hull- college.ac.uk.

Projekt Renewable wins community award

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Projekt Renewable wins community award

Projekt Renewable was named the winner of the Engaging the Community | Community Project Award, in partnership with Blackrow Wind, at the Offshore Wind Connections Humber Renewable Awards that took place in early May at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Hull.

Projekt Director Rich was there on the night, saying: “I honestly didn’t think we’d stand a chance given the other projects that had been shortlisted. “The win is for everybody that was in the room on the night – PRG (Projekt Renewable, Grimsby) is one of several projects working to bridge the gap between community and industry. And in an industry that is moving as rapidly as renewables, that conduit and channel of communication is vital. “The judges summed it up for me, ‘It’s very easy for big companies to pledge some money to a community project, but it’s really hard to do it the other way around and build something of substance from the ground up’.” Conceived 2021, designed 2022, delivered 2023 – PRG exists because Projekt Director, Richard Askam, was tasked with creating something in the centre of Grimsby to inspire the next generation. The world knows Grimsby for its fishing heritage but its flourishing renewable energy sector and the opportunities that lie within it, exist and operate largely out of sight. An educational and cultural hub, Projekt Renewable, Grimsby has been created to inspire the next generation of renewable energy experts through a ‘destination’ full of energy and immersive experiences. Creating a better environment for the future of our planet and the generations to come, with homegrown talent at its core – this is what Projekt Renewable embodies. Designed and built from shipping containers, re-purposed to house a podcast and YouTube studio along with visitor experiences from the likes of RWE, The Crown Estate, NSPCC, myenergi and others – Projekt Renewable has quickly gained national notoriety as Government and industry seek to bring the public on the journey to Net Zero.

Raft of new businesses join 3M Buckley Innovation Centre

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Raft of new businesses join 3M Buckley Innovation Centre
3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC), a subsidiary of the University of Huddersfield, has welcomed a raft of new businesses from a range of sectors including packaging, property finance, vet diagnostics and formulation testing. Urolith, ECO PACK, Crafted and the Charlesworth Family Group have taken offices and labs at the 3M BIC leaving only a few remaining spaces at the centre. Urolith Diagnostics is a start-up business and aims to improve pet healthcare by accurately detecting the composition of kidney and bladder stones in animals using state-of-the-art spectrometry. The data can be used by vets to determine the best treatment for the pets. ECO PACK specialises in developing and commercialising sustainable packaging solutions for Food, Beverage and Pharmaceutical companies that supply to major FMCG retailers. Part of the 2M Group of Companies, Crafted works with personal care start-ups as well as established brands to help them realise their brand ambitions, from creating new products, upscaling a successful and growing line or expanding a range. The Charlesworth family has been in business in Huddersfield since 1928. It became the Charlesworth Family Group following the sale of its printing company in 2010 and publishing division in 2015. The Group initially formed as a vehicle for property investment, but soon branched into investing and providing finance and services for small businesses. It has worked across several industries and countries for over 20 years. 3M BIC’s CEO, Sue Cooke, said: “It’s fantastic to see innovative businesses becoming part of our community, many of which benefit greatly from our in-house facilities and access to the University of Huddersfield for recruitment and knowledge exchange opportunities. “They are all from very different sectors and at different stages of growth, so we are looking forward to supporting the businesses to thrive over the coming months and years.” Martin Leeming, Managing Director of ECO PACK, said: “As we scale up, we need to have the right infrastructure in place to deliver the projects we already have and to recruit the talent that we need. “Access to 3D printing and the expertise available from the Engineering and Business functions at the University of Huddersfield is the perfect way for us to leverage our own in-house design expertise and provide challenging and rewarding projects to students.” Other businesses at the 3M BIC include Ionix, Surfachem, Bailey Walsh & Co and Kromek, that have all had a base at the 3M BIC for over a decade, as well as the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the centre’s anchor tenant. FIS Information Systems, Water Industry Forum, Simplifai, the Institute for Educational and Social Equity and Kent Pharma are also based at the 3M BIC.

Lincoln specialists assist in roll-out of farming industry tech to alleviate labour shortages

Stuart Pearcey
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Lincoln specialists assist in roll-out of farming industry tech to alleviate labour shortages
Specialists from the Lincoln Institute for Agri-food Technology at the University of Lincoln have contributed world-leading expertise to assess how the rapid roll-out of robotics and automation technologies could alleviate labour shortages in the UK’s food supply chain. The University of Lincoln is at the forefront of industry-aligned research and development to drive forward innovations in the sustainability, efficiency, and productivity in the UK’s £100bn+ food and farming sector. This track record has been recognised with awards including the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Further and Higher Education in 2023. From establishing the world’s first doctoral training centre to train the next generation of agri-tech innovators, to launching award-winning spin-out companies deploying world-first technological solutions in-market, Lincoln’s teaching and research is supporting agri-food businesses across the country to supply the nation with the high quality, affordable, sustainable food. Professor Simon Pearson, Founding Director of the Lincoln Institute for Agri-food Technology, co-chaired the independent Automation in Horticulture Review in 2022 with Defra Secretary of State George Eustice. The Independent Review into Labour Shortages in the Food Supply Chain, led by John Shropshire, published a year later, addressed related challenges and opportunities in the roll-out of automation technologies across the sector. Both reviews were prompted by concerns about labour market constraints in the post-Brexit food supply chain highlighted in the UK Government’s National Food Strategy in 2021. Professor Pearson said: “The announcement today is a significant and welcomed intervention from the Government to drive productivity in the critical UK horticulture sector. The intervention supports the long-term sustainability of the sector and underpins the production of affordable and healthy fresh produce for all. In addition, it will help upskill our workforce with state-of-the-art robotic and automation technology.”

New figures show SMEs have turned UK away from recession, says BCC

Stuart Pearcey
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New figures show SMEs have turned UK away from recession, says BCC
The British Chambers of Commerce says new GDP figures are a welcome sign that the UK has moved away from last year’s shallow recession. Head of Research David Bharier says businesses across the UK have been the driving force behind the recovery. “Firms have shown resilience in the face of multiple headwinds and this estimate should give business and investor confidence a boost. “However, significant challenges remain. The UK has seen waves of economic and political uncertainty in recent years, from inflation to skills shortages and trade barriers with the EU, which have weighed down on its growth potential. Our latest surveys show that most SMEs are still not increasing investment. “With signals from the Bank that their next move will be an interest rate cut, it is now essential that policymakers show businesses a clear plan for growth to unlock their economic potential.”

Future Humber delegation takes regional message to London

Stuart Pearcey
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Future Humber delegation takes regional message to London

Future Humber brought together a 15-strong delegation of partners in London to spotlight the Humber’s ambitious vision for industrial decarbonisation at Innovation Zero 2024. The event, now in its second year, attracted thousands of attendees to London Olympia, driving conversations and actions towards a sustainable, low carbon future.

Supported by the UK Government, Innovation Zero is the UK’s largest sustainability conference and  provides a meeting place for announcements, partnerships, deal-making, and collaborations for those who develop, produce, deploy, and fund low carbon solutions. At the forefront of London Olympia stood the Humber Pavilion, showcasing representatives and  projects from leading partners Air Products, Arup, Aura, Drax, Equinor, Humber Freeport, Meld Energy, Oh Yes! Net Zero, Phillips 66, Prax, px Group, SSE Thermal, Uniper, the University of Hull and VPI. With more than 10,000 delegates visiting , the Pavilion served as a hub for engaging discussions and networking opportunities, allowing attendees to delve into the region’s decarbonisation initiatives through interactive displays and engaging conversations with partner representatives. Diana Taylor, MD of Future Humber, said:”As a region, the Humber is at its strongest when it aligns with a single, consistent voice. The decarbonisation agenda is perhaps the greatest example of cross-sector collaboration we have seen to date. The Humber Pavilion at Innovation Zero is a true show of force and statement of intent from our region and serves as an important reminder that the Humber simply has to play a critical role on a national stage to drive the UK to net zero.”

SME confidence creeps back, but interest rate ‘hold’ was a missed opportunity, says FSB

Stuart Pearcey
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SME confidence creeps back, but interest rate ‘hold’ was a missed opportunity, says FSB
The Bank of England’s predicted decision to hold the base rate at 5.25% is being seen as a missed opportunity by the Federation of Small BUsinesses. The organisation’s Martin McTague said: “The decision by the Monetary Policy Committee to keep the base rate at 5.25% rather than opting for a cut will be seen by many small firms as a missed opportunity. It is however encouraging to see the Committee’s attitude softening further, with two members voting for a cut, up from just one in March.
“Our most recent research into small businesses’ economic prospects supports the argument for a summer cut in the rate. Nearly three times as many small firms rated the availability and affordability of new finance as ‘poor’ than rated it as ‘good’ in the first three months of this year, according to our most recent Small Business Index, while the proportion of successful new finance applications among small firms dropped to the lowest level recorded since this time last year. “The domestic economy is cited as by far and away the biggest concern with regards to future growth prospects, while the second-most commonly cited barrier to growth is consumer demand. Keeping the rate at its high plateau for longer than absolutely necessary will make it much harder for small businesses to think about growth and investment, which is what will be needed for the economy as a whole to get out of its pattern of near-zero growth. “We’ll know today whether we are formally out of a recession, but the tentative recovery seen in the first part of this year is still fragile. Small firms’ confidence is returning – in part because they are anticipating rate cuts this year. There is only so long they can wait, which is something we would urge the Bank of England to bear in mind.”

UK exits recession

Tess Egginton
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UK exits recession
The UK has moved out of recession, with new figures showing the economy grew by 0.6% in the first quarter of the year. Strong economic growth in March (0.4%) contributed to the strongest quarterly growth since the fourth quarter of 2021, when the economy was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. This was influenced by growth across the services sector and manufacturing, while construction output fell. GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, had been predicted to rise 0.1% month-on-month and 0.4% in the quarter. Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “Back-to-back increases in output over the first months of this year suggest the UK is now on the road to recovery. With falling inflation boosting households’ spending power, as well as opening the way for a reduction in interest rates in the months ahead, the economy should be able to sustain some momentum through the year. “But a consumer-led recovery could prove short-lived without more determined action to tackle the long-standing problem of weak productivity growth, which ultimately sets the UK’s economic speed limit. “Firms want to see action that could help support investment and cut costs which, includes extending full expensing to leased and rented assets, and a business tax roadmap to give firms the certainty and confidence they need to plan ahead and invest in a vibrant UK economy.”

Secretary of State tours British Steel’s Scunthorpe railmaking plant

Stuart Pearcey
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Secretary of State tours British Steel’s Scunthorpe railmaking plant
Secretary of State Kemi Badenoch has visited British Steel at Scunthorpe as talks continue with the UK Government about the company’s £1.25-billion decarbonisation plan. She was shown the UK’s only plant making rails, where the company is to build one of two electric arc furnaces as it undertakes the biggest transformation in its history on the road to net zero. British Steel President and CEO Xijun Cao said: “We were delighted to welcome the Secretary of State to British Steel and to reiterate the vital importance of safeguarding the future of steelmaking in this country. “Our world-class rails help transport people and goods throughout the UK, forming a critical part of Britain’s infrastructure. We will shortly open a new £10-million rail storage facility at our Scunthorpe site, and we’re unique in delivering 216-metre lengths of rail for installation in Britain’s railways – a service that reduces delays for rail users caused by maintenance. “We’re also the UK’s only manufacturer of constructional steel, and a leading supplier of wire rod, special profiles and semi-finished steel – products that all keep Britain on the go. It is therefore imperative that if Britain wants to secure its sovereign steelmaking capability, the UK Government supports our plans to transform into a clean, green and sustainable business.” Detailed studies show electrification would enable British Steel to continue making the products its customers require and it has recently received planning permission to build EAFs in Scunthorpe and Teesside. British Steel has started preliminary talks with trade unions about electrification and has promised to support employees affected by its decarbonisation plans. Xijun added: “We are confident our proposals, which are subject to appropriate support from the UK Government including the adoption of the correct policies and frameworks, will help secure the low-embedded carbon steelmaking the UK requires now and for decades to come. “We are committed to working with the UK Government and need to reach an agreement quickly so we can achieve our ambitious goals, secure thousands of jobs and keep making the steel Britain needs for generations to come.”
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