Garden Centres Group wins retail company award for second successive year

Stuart Pearcey
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Garden Centres Group wins retail company award for second successive year
Yorkshire Garden Centres Group has won the Retail Company of the Year Award at the British HR Awards. Head of People and Culture Neil Barwise-Carr said: “The HR awards celebrate organisations and individuals that are driven by delivering a world-class people experience, so we’re proud and delighted to have won this award on behalf of our great team.” Yorkshire Garden Centres beat industry giants Heron Foods, Holland & Barrett and Selfridges to win the Retail Company of the Year Award for a second time. Nate Harwood, Founder of New Possible and British HR Awards judge said: “The British HR Awards celebrate the talented, dedicated, and passionate teams and individuals who are fueling thriving workplaces across the UK and beyond. I’d like to extend my congratulations to all the Winners and Finalists.” The British HR Awards is powered by New Possible, a next-generation employee insight platform. New Possible helps leaders build healthier organisations by providing meaningful insight that can drive real change. The Yorkshire Garden Centres group is made up of garden centres at Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley as well as the recently acquired Dean’s York and Scarborough.

Walker Sime names UK Director of Quantity Surveying

Stuart Pearcey
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Walker Sime names UK Director of Quantity Surveying
Leeds-based construction consultancy Walker Sime has apppointed Gareth Robertson as the UK Director of Quantity Surveying. He joins from CBRE where he was Senior Director and Head of Cost Management for the North of England. It was in this role that he led and grew the cost management team over his four-year tenure. Having collaborated with Walker Sime on various projects during his time at CBRE, Gareth shared his admiration for the consultancy’s reputation, track record and approach, citing a strong alignment with the company’s vision and his own personal values as his reasons for joining. MD Duncan Firth said “Gareth’s appointment marks another pivotal moment in our growth. With his wealth of experience, growth mindset and alignment with our values and culture, we are confident his leadership, personality, and skills will increase the rate of our growth.” Gareth says he will be picking up the baton with the already strong QS team, continuing the great work already being done and collectively moving the service line forward. “I will be rolling up my sleeves immediately and leading our team on several high-profile instructions,” he said. Alongside his responsibilities as the UK Director of Quantity Surveying, Gareth also joins the new-look Executive Leadership Team at the firm. Gareth will extend his expertise over Walker Sime’s offices in Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool. The company has provided quantity surveying and project management services to several prominent projects including The Barnum and the University of York’s Institute for Safe Autonomy, New Victoria and Civic Heat Network in Manchester, Dock Branch Park in Birkenhead and Liverpool Waters.

Housing association agrees new funding with three lenders worth £284m

Tess Egginton
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Housing association agrees new funding with three lenders worth £284m

Savills Financial Consultants has helped Great Places Housing Group secure three new deals worth a total of £284m with Santander, NatWest, and ABN AMRO.

Funding of £109m and £100m has been agreed with existing lenders Santander and NatWest Bank, respectively. New partner ABN AMRO has lent 25,000-home Great Places £75m. All loans are revolving credit facilities (RCFs).  

All three RCFs contain sustainability-linked performance measures which see a reduced interest rate in the event that Great Places meets agreed energy efficiency targets on new and existing homes.

The housing association will use the funds to continue to deliver its commitments to customers to invest in existing and new homes in communities across the North West, Yorkshire and Derbyshire. Great Places’ current plans include further increasing resources to improve property conditions and customer services, as well as the ambition to develop around 9,000 new affordable homes during the period 2020-2030. 

Mike Gerrard, Chief Financial Officer at Great Places Housing Group, said: “We are delighted to continue and develop our relationships with NatWest and Santander and welcome ABN AMRO as a new banking partner.

“We received strong interest from the banking sector for this transaction and it is pleasing to move forward with sustainability-linked funding. Thank you to the Great Places team and Savills for their insight and support.” 

Mike Roche, Director at Savills Financial Consultants, said: “There were a significant number of moving parts with these deals, so it is a testament to the Great Places team that they have been able to handle the process so diligently.

“The Savills Financial Consultants team has really enjoyed helping Great Places secure this increased financial capacity at the right pricing to help deliver their aims.”

Jane Johnstone, Senior Director, Housing Finance, Santander UK, said: “We are delighted to have supported Great Places in providing this sustainability-linked facility.

“This funding will ultimately facilitate improvement in existing housing provision and the continued development of much-needed, new, affordable homes. We are proud to work together with providers such as Great Places in this critical sector.” 

Martin Skinner, Relationship Director at NatWest, said: “We are a major lender to the UK affordable housing sector and are delighted to continue to support the important work of Great Places in providing much-needed social housing to the region.

“The RCF structure, coupled with sustainability-linked performance measures, will lead to more energy-efficient homes across the North West, Yorkshire and Derbyshire.

“We are proud to have announced that in 2023 we completed nearly £3bn of new funding to help more people and families have access to housing. We support around 200 housing associations across the UK and are proud to announce our ambition to provide a further £5bn in funding to support the housing association sector by the end of 2026.” 

Rutilio Merien, ABN AMRO’s Head of UK Coverage Real Estate, said: “We are delighted to start this partnership and provide Great Places with new funding facilitating its commitment to develop new homes as well as improving existing ones.

“ABN AMRO is pleased to further support the social housing sector and the inclusion of ESG-linked KPIs in our facility with Great Places resonates very well with ABN AMRO’s purpose and strategy. We look forward to building a strong and long-term relationship with Great Places.”

Alice Overton, Partner at Devonshires, said: “We are delighted to have advised on these transactions and to have supported Great Places in achieving its energy efficiency and wider sustainability ambitions.

“Great Places approached this with dedication and commitment, and the team was a pleasure to work with, alongside Savills, all resulting in a great outcome for the business.”

The transaction was also supported by Addleshaw Goddard and the valuation team at Savills. 

Ringrose Law expands with three new office openings

Tess Egginton
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Ringrose Law expands with three new office openings
Ringrose Law has expanded its regional footprint with the opening of three new offices in Grimsby, Peterborough, and Nottingham this week. This significant expansion brings the firm’s presence in the region from five to eight offices, marking a notable milestone in the firm’s growth journey. The new offices in Grimsby, Peterborough, and Nottingham are a testament to the firm’s ongoing success and its commitment to broadening its reach to serve more individuals and businesses. This expansion has been fuelled by the ongoing growth of the firm’s departments and teams. With these new openings, Ringrose Law aims to replicate its successful model of providing a comprehensive range of personal and commercial legal services, catering to both individuals and businesses. The firm is dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service and expertise that have been the cornerstone of its operations across the region. Ryan Clarke, Managing Director of Ringrose Law, expressed his enthusiasm about this phase of growth: “This expansion marks a significant period of growth for Ringrose Law. We are incredibly excited about the opportunities that these new locations will offer us. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and teamwork of everyone at the firm. We look forward to continuing to serve our clients with the same level of excellence and professionalism that has defined our practice.” For over 100 years, Ringrose Law has been providing a wide range of legal services to individuals and businesses in Lincolnshire. Its expertise encompasses family law, divorce, childcare, personal injury, medical negligence, residential and commercial property transactions, wills & probate, discrimination law, dispute resolution, criminal law, and commercial law. Ringrose Law’s expansion into Grimsby, Peterborough, and Nottingham underscores its commitment to providing accessible, quality legal services and support to more communities. The firm is excited to embark on this new chapter and to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those they serve. For more information about Ringrose Law and its services, please visit www.ringroselaw.co.uk or contact the firm’s offices directly.

Business Shows Group marks 25 years of excellence in event organisation

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Business Shows Group marks 25 years of excellence in event organisation
Celebrating a memorable milestone, Business Shows Group is marking 25 years of excellence in event organisation. At the core of their heritage lies the Property & Business Investment Show, which runs alongside the East Midlands Expo, serving as a hub for networking and business growth opportunity in the continuously evolving environment of property, construction, finance, and related businesses. In an age where daily client interactions are frequently limited to virtual contact, the annual events hosted by Business Shows Group serve as a meeting place for like-minded individuals to get together under one roof, generating meaningful conversations and driving business growth. The appeal of the Expo lies not just in its longevity but in its ability to stimulate business development. In a single day, exhibitors can encounter more clients—new, old, prospective, and current—than they could meet in a month of travel and individual networking events. An indication of a well-curated event, where every handshake holds the promise of future collaboration and success. Yet, amidst the recognition, a cautionary note resounds; beware the imitators and copycats who seek to ride on the coattails of success. Business Shows Group represents authenticity, its legacy built on quarter of a century of dedication to quality exhibitors & delegates alongside innovative ideas. Exhibitor booking now for Nottingham, 11th November 2024 Anniversary event and Lincolnshire, 25th March 2025. For further details email tina@businessshowsgroup.co.uk or complete the exhibitor information form at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/exhibitor-enquiry/

Farmers call for major retailers’ support during ‘perfect storm’ of challenges

Stuart Pearcey
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Farmers call for major retailers’ support during ‘perfect storm’ of challenges
Major retailers are being urged to support the farming industry during a ‘perfect storm’ of challenges it’s facing as a result of extremely challenging and disruptive weather. Exceptional rainfall and a succession of damaging storms have impacted livestock, arable and horticultural sectors and disrupted individual farm businesses the length and breadth of the country. No area of the UK has escaped with lambing, calving, planting and field work all proving very difficult and bringing additional cost to the business. A joint letter from the national farmers unions throughout the UK says: “These challenges come at a time when many of our members are already struggling to remain viable due to the perfect storm of sustained and spiralling production costs, low market returns, and increasing levels of regulation. “This latest challenge, whilst not new, is more acute than ever, and is compounding the pressure on our members. “Farmers and growers continue to bear the lion’s share of the risk within their supply chains, and this is unsustainable. We are in discussions with our respective governments on further support to assist the industry in navigating these short-term challenges, but we also recognise the important role which retailers have to play in helping the industry to withstand this latest crisis.” The letter calls for a commitment to local sourcing, fair supply chains, flexibility on product specification, rapid payments, and support for local suppliers. The letter concludes: “It is no exaggeration to say that the current challenges are some of the most acute the industry has faced in a very long time, and we need your support more than ever to maintain food production across the UK and safeguard our food security. “Our members will continue to work tirelessly in the face of this latest adversity to maintain their high standards of production and welfare that your customers have now come to expect. We now urge you to support our members’ efforts.”

£1.8bn Viking Link project between Lincolnshire and Denmark launched

Tess Egginton
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£1.8bn Viking Link project between Lincolnshire and Denmark launched
National Grid has formally launched the £1.8bn project Viking Link, a 475-mile-long land and subsea cable connecting British and Danish energy grids for the first time.
Running from Bicker Fen converter station in Lincolnshire to one in southern Jutland, Denmark, across both land and sea, Viking Link is sharing British and Danish wind power as both countries become hubs of clean energy in Europe, acting as cornerstone nations for the North Sea super grid of the future. Viking Link is National Grid’s sixth interconnector and the UK’s ninth, and is a vital instrument in delivering low cost, low carbon power to UK consumers – helping both power grids to balance the peaks and troughs that come with the growing amount of wind power needed to tackle climate change. Since it commenced initial operations in December 2023, Viking Link has transported 1,733 gigawatt hours (GWh) of power between the two countries – a figure that will only increase over time. With UK renewables volumes only set to increase, by the 2030s the UK is anticipated to become a net exporter of power, making Viking Link and other interconnectors even more valuable. However, the ability to import power when renewable output is low will be even more vital to ensuring consumer demand is met at the most affordable prices possible. With Viking Link’s launch and the pipeline of interconnector projects, including LionLink and Nautilus, National Grid is delivering the infrastructure that will directly enable the deployment of 50GW of offshore wind by 2030. In its first year alone, Viking Link is expected to save 600,000 tonnes of carbon emissions – equal to taking 280,000 cars off UK roads. National Grid’s interconnector fleet as a whole will have helped the UK to avoid around 100 million tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030, with 90% of the energy imported from zero carbon energy sources. Viking Link alone will bring over £500 million of savings for UK consumers in its first decade of operations, while also providing enough power for 2.5million households. Group CEO of National Grid John Pettigrew said: “In an ever-changing global energy market, the value that connections like Viking Link can provide to national energy security cannot be understated. “Over its lifespan, this record-breaking connection will deliver over five billion pounds in efficiencies for UK consumers, allow us to trade hundreds of gigawatts in surplus power and provide an indispensable tool in guaranteeing the continued reliability of our energy system. “Projects like this are emblematic of the efforts National Grid will make to deliver for customers and climate alike. I’m delighted that we have been able to come together with industry leaders and those who collectively spent four million working hours over five years building Viking Link to recognise that.” He adds: “Physical connections to other countries are central to the international collaboration that sits at the heart of the energy transition we are undergoing. “Our existing fleet, Viking Link and our planned Nautilus and LionLink projects will act as the cornerstone for North Sea nations to make the most of up to 300GW of offshore wind generation, delivering low-cost renewable energy to consumers with the least impact on coastal communities.” Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho said: “At 475 miles long, Viking Link is the world’s longest land and subsea interconnector. This incredible feat of engineering will help us achieve net zero while strengthening our shared energy security. “The record-breaking connection will power up to 2.5 million UK homes with clean energy from a trusted ally, while saving consumers £500 million on their energy bills.” In 2023 National Grid announced joint plans with TenneT for a new 1.8GW interconnector between the UK and The Netherlands, called LionLink. The link would not only join the two countries but also connect to offshore wind generation. LionLink would be the second link between the two countries and is expected to be operational in the early 2030s. National Grid is also working with Elia on a second new link called Nautilus, which is in the planning phase with the potential to link the UK with Belgium and offshore wind generation.

C-suite executives optimistic for a year of transformation and growth, but say more regulation needed on AI and sustainability

Tess Egginton
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C-suite executives optimistic for a year of transformation and growth, but say more regulation needed on AI and sustainability

Optimism and confidence are at their highest recorded by the Mazars C-suite barometer. 96% of UK C-suites say that their company grew in 2023, up from 87% the previous year, and in contrast to 89% globally. Furthermore, almost all (98%) predict growth in 2024, and 60% of these say this growth will come organically.

The major topic on the leadership agenda is transformation through IT and new technology as a top strategic priority. 87% of UK C-suite executives believe that generative AI will have an impact on their organisation, with more than half saying this will be a major impact.

More than two thirds say their organisation already uses AI for internal processes and/or products/services – although this is slightly lower than the three quarters globally. However, over half (57%) of UK C-suite executives express ethical concerns over AI, (although globally it’s 74%) and 92% are seeking more regulatory guidance.

Elisabeth Maxwell, Deputy CEO, said: “It is very encouraging to see such optimism among our UK clients for the year ahead despite the uncertain conditions that all businesses are facing. Companies are willing to put investment in again and there are exciting developments on the horizon for AI.

“The feedback that Mazars C-suite barometer has highlighted is that more clarity is needed from regulators to enable businesses to make the best of the opportunities provided by potentially transformational technology and to enable companies to quantify success in sustainability practices.”

Key areas of investment for the UK are customer acquisition and brand strategy/positioning, followed by sustainability initiatives. Compared to other leaders globally, those in the UK have a stronger focus on engaging government/regulators, and less on external growth opportunities. An overwhelming seven in ten thinks more government regulation is important.

Over half (56%) of UK C-suite executives say their organisation produces a sustainability report compared to 71% globally, and furthermore, the proportion of leaders in the UK who are budgeting for sustainability implementation and reporting is also down from 75% last year.

The reason for this is believed to be that for those in the UK producing or planning a report, understanding regulation is now twice as big a challenge than last year, making it the equal biggest challenge alongside data capture/quality. Many UK leaders feel they lack in-house expertise to tackle sustainability properly, compared to leaders globally, who are more concerned about coverage on climate and carbon.

Partner and member of the Mazars Group Executive Board, Mark Kennedy, said: “The high levels of optimism and renewed confidence among our respondents provide a good indicator of how businesses are likely to progress this year.

“In the face of volatility, the C-suite has demonstrated resilience and agility enabling them to continue investment and transform business while addressing the challenges and opportunities of emerging technology, expansion plans and the ESG agenda, setting their businesses up for sustainable growth.

“In what may be a bounce forward year for businesses, there will still be tough decisions to make, yet we can see an increasing consciousness and confidence in the priority areas that will secure sustainable economic growth in the global economy.”

International expansion is also a rising business priority both in the UK and globally. Many UK firms looking at international expansion in the year ahead said that the USA would be their top destination.

Hull Trains and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust partner in new environmental initiative

Stuart Pearcey
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Hull Trains and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust partner in new environmental initiative
Hull Trains and the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust have launched a new partnership intended to reach directly to schools and colleges to help educate the next generation on the planet’s challenges and discuss some of the key actions to protect it and wildlife species. Hull Trains Service Delivery Director Lou Mendham said: “This charity was chosen by our team as their charity of choice to support this year. We all have one home that we share, so it’s vitally important that we work together to protect our planet and all of the various species on it. “We hope that this new partnership can help to raise awareness of current issues and also open dialogue with the next generation to engage them early in the changes we all need to make.” Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Director Fundraising and Engagement Amanda Spivack added: “The partnership with Hull Trains is a really exciting one for us at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. “They have fantastic business connections, as well as great consumer exposure in the region. One of the key aims of the partnership is to highlight the benefits of train travel over other forms of travel, particularly with reference to the climate crisis we face and protecting some of Yorkshire’s most valuable wildlife habitats so nature can thrive.”

Small firms thrown into confusion as plant and food import plans sink into complete disarray, says FSB

Stuart Pearcey
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Small firms thrown into confusion as plant and food import plans sink into complete disarray, says FSB
The Government has heaped an extra layer of confusion on small firms less than two weeks before new import rules on plant and food products are due to be introduced, says the Federation of Small Businesses.
Officials from the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs say new checks, due to come in on April 30, may not be turned on as expected – and that means formal channels have been bypassed, leaving small firms out of the conversation, according to the Federation. However, small firms have not been formally told of the changes, and instead found out after a document was leaked to the press. Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “New import charges on plant and food products are supposed to be introduced in less than two weeks, but the system is in complete disarray. The Government has bypassed formal channels and left small firms out of the conversation. It’s left them unsure as to who they can trust. “Many have invested considerable time and money making sure they’re getting it right, but now they’re left scratching their heads at the conflicting messages coming out of Whitehall – will they or won’t they face these checks and have to start paying on April 30? “Government has had years to get this right. Small firms deserve clarity, and they really do not have time to decode messy and unclear Whitehall messages that contradict each other. “These new import rules have already been delayed five times and because of that, small firms already feel like they’ve been given the runaround. Confusion takes away their ability to plan – they cannot plan if they are constantly on tenterhooks, wondering whether new rules are coming in or not. “The Government really ought to put small firms, the most affected by these changes, at the heart of the conversation.”

Sight Support Hull and East Yorkshire gets new CEO

Stuart Pearcey
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Sight Support Hull and East Yorkshire gets new CEO
Alison Stannard has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of Sight Support Hull and East Yorkshire. Alison, who has been Services and Operations Manager at the charity, takes over from Sandra Ackroyd, who retires after twelve years in the role. In her previous position as Services Manager Alison was responsible for overseeing the work of the charity during the Covid pandemic for which she receive a British Empire Medal in the Queens Honours. Alison takes over an organisation on a strong footing, with a committed Board of trustees, experienced senior management team and dedicated staff and volunteers. She takes over at a time when the charity sector has never been more important and the need for Sight Support’s services continues to grow. She said: “With lots of knowledge gained in my 13 years with the charity, I’m looking forward to continuing Sandra’s legacy, especially in this, our 160th year of supporting visually impaired people in Hull and East Yorkshire. I’d also like to thank Sandra for her vision and commitment over the past 12 years and wish her all the very best on her retirement”.

Lindum Group adds new roof to Cresset building in £3.5m project

Stuart Pearcey
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Lindum Group adds new roof to Cresset building in £3.5m project
Lincoln-based Lindum Group is replacing the roof of Peterborough’s Cresset building in a £3.5m project that’s expected to run until March next year. Most of the ageing flat roof will make way for a new pitched standing seam structure, along with reroofing several of the remaining flat roofs while also improving the building’s drainage system. The work is part of a £5.1m project to secure the long-term future of The Cresset Building, which was made possible by a grant from the Youth Investment Fund. Lindum Group MD Darren King said: “The work we are doing will improve the fabric of the building, but it will also uplift and update its appearance too. It’s quite a significant project and will involve replacing some existing flat roofs with pitched, resurfacing others and re-routing and replacing old drainage channels throughout the building. “The Cresset is only six miles from our offices in Newark Road and its work has been enjoyed by our employees for many years. We are really pleased we can help ensure it remains part of the community for years to come.”

Five new heads of department feature in accountancy firm’s dozens of promotions

Stuart Pearcey
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Five new heads of department feature in accountancy firm’s dozens of promotions
Accountancy BHP has created five heads of service positions to reflect the company’s ongoing growth. The appointments include Paul Winwood and Chris Neale as Heads of Audit, Andy Haigh as Head of Corporate Finance, Ellie Dignam as Head of Digital Finance, and Fletcher Adamowicz as Head of Tax. BHP has also announced 34 further promotions across its office network in Sheffield, Chesterfield, Leeds, York, and Cleckheaton. Felix Lee has been appointed Audit Director, while Oliver Watson and Patrick Simpson have been promoted to Audit Manager positions. Other manager promotions include Emily Jones (Audit – Not for Profit), Joseph Briggs, William Sykes, Luke Harrower (all Corporate Finance), and Jack Moore (Digital Finance). More promotions have been made across accountancy and management positions, which follow a further 79 made by BHP last autumn. BHP Chief People Officer Karen Arch said: “Congratulations to everyone who has deservedly received recognition for their continued commitment and success. “As a firm and a certified Great Place to Work, we’re passionate about developing our people and nurturing great talent, and these promotions reflect this.” Lisa Leighton, Joint CEO, said: “We have enjoyed a positive start to 2024 and these promotions evidence not only this but also our leading approach of being a supportive workplace that places the development and future success of our people at the forefront of everything we do. “It is especially pleasing to have created brand new ‘heads of’ roles for some of our main service line areas, which each have exciting plans and are central to our ongoing growth ambitions.”

New managing partner named at LCF Law

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New managing partner named at LCF Law

Yorkshire law firm, LCF Law’s managing partner Simon Stell, who has led the firm for almost 30 years, is to step down from the role with partner and disputes specialist, Ragan Montgomery, taking up the position this month.

Simon joined LCF Law in 1995, when it was known as Last Cawthra Feather before becoming LCF Law in 2014. Shortly afterwards, in 2016, he was named Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year at the Yorkshire Legal Awards, and during his tenure he has overseen LCF Law’s growth.

Simon will continue to work with Ragan to assist with the handover. He will continue with the firm, acting as a mentor and sounding board as well as supporting the wider team, to help achieve LCF Law’s ambitious goals and objectives moving forward.

In her new role, Ragan will be responsible for overseeing LCF Law’s operations and leading the firm’s client service, growth and development strategies.

Ragan has worked at LCF Law since 2003 and is currently operational head of the firm’s Dispute Resolution department. Ragan specialises in disputes concerning wills, trusts and inheritance, as well as property litigation and professional negligence claims. She’s also a qualified civil and commercial mediator.

Ragan said: “After joining the firm 21 years ago as an assistant solicitor, to be appointed managing partner is a huge honour and it’s a challenge that I’m really looking forward to as we strive to build on our enviable reputation in Yorkshire and beyond.

“I’m taking over the role at a time when LCF Law is in a very strong position. Simon has never let the firm stand still and has always laid the foundations for future growth. We have a highly experienced group of 22 partners whose continued aim is grow the firm serving our existing clients, winning new clients to seek our advice and support as well as attracting the best people to join our team.”

Simon added: “Over the many years that I have been with LCF Law, there have been lots of changes, but we have always had a firm eye on the future, planning and modelling our strategic development, so that we can achieve our ambitions and the career aspirations of our colleagues. Five years ago, we began to look at a succession strategy and set about planning the structure and recruitment for the 2020s and beyond.

“One thing we were certain about was that law would still be a people business and we’ve worked hard to build a great team. I’m proud to remain a part of it in my new role. I very much look forward to supporting Ragan and continuing to be a dedicated contributor to LCF Law’s ongoing success.

“Ragan is a vastly experienced and highly respected lawyer who is always forward-thinking and has a natural ability to quickly identify and solve problems, which makes her very popular with clients, her colleagues and everyone she deals with. There’s no doubt she’s the perfect person to lead LCF Law going forward.”

Call goes out for possible development sites across North Yorkshire

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Call goes out for possible development sites across North Yorkshire

A call for possible development sites across North Yorkshire has gone out this week as part of preparation for the county’s new local plan.

Landowners, site promoters, developers and other interested parties are being given the chance to submit site suggestions to North Yorkshire Council. They will be considered as part of the local plan being drawn up to meet the future growth of the county.

Sites can be submitted for any use or special designation, including but not limited to housing, employment, commercial development, retail and leisure, renewable energy generation, and biodiversity or other environmental enhancement schemes.

The North Yorkshire Local Plan, which the council aims to adopt by 2028, will set out where development will take place across the county over the next 15 to 20 years. It will also include policies and strategies that planning applications will be considered against.

Sites put forward for consideration will be subject to a lengthy process that will take several years to complete and will include independent government examination of the plan and the proposed sites.

Director of community development, Nic Harne, said: “The call for sites represents a crucial early stage in our local plan preparations and we welcome submissions from across North Yorkshire.

“However, submitting a site for consideration does not necessarily mean it will be taken forward for development. This exercise is not the planning application process and at this early stage, it is often the case that more sites are submitted than are needed to meet the future needs of the area.”

Site ideas must be submitted online using the council’s planning portal and allows the user to plot the site boundary, submit site details, include supporting documentation, and add details of any work carried out to date on the site.

This level of information is important and will allow the planning team to consider the impact of a site in detail. The process will include seeking expert advice on the impact on local services such as schools and health provision, capacity of local sewerage and water services, impact on wildlife and biodiversity, and the capacity of local roads and junctions.

When the initial assessment of sites is complete, the council will invite comments on the sites as part of a public consultation.

Anyone wanting to put a site forward for consideration should aim to do so by the end of June.

Construction starts on Ministry of Defence and NHS health complex in Catterick Garrison

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Construction starts on Ministry of Defence and NHS health complex in Catterick Garrison
Tilbury Douglas, a UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out business, has started construction on the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and NHS health complex in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire.
The first of its kind joint project between the MOD and NHS will deliver transformative integrated health and care services to the military and civilian communities of Catterick, North Yorkshire, and the wider Richmondshire areas. The project will enable shared estate, expertise and learning to optimise the health and care services for people across the area. Tilbury Douglas was awarded the contract by the MOD’s Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), via the P22 framework.
Wendy Balmain, the North Yorkshire Director of NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “I am delighted that work has now started on the Catterick Integrated Care Campus which will enable us to deliver modern and fit for the future, health and care for military personnel, their families and veterans – as well as the wider Richmondshire population. “This project will deliver a state-of-the-art purpose-built health and care facility to bring together a broad range of services collectively under one roof and provide our Catterick communities with integrated and responsive health and care.” John Weatherby of DIO’s Major Programmes & Projects (MPP) team said: “The Catterick Integrated Care Campus, which is being delivered by MPP, represents an opportunity to consolidate, in a state-of-the-art facility, military medical and dental services which are currently dispersed across the largest military garrison in the UK. “The new facility will allow the MOD to not only work in partnership with NHS but also reduce our estate footprint and operational running costs, while continuing to provide an exceptional service to personnel.”

UK Infrastructure Bank commits to Leeds

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UK Infrastructure Bank commits to Leeds
The UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB) has signed a 15-year lease on a new office space in Leeds, reaffirming its commitment to the city. UKIB will move into its new city centre location at 2 Whitehall Quay in early summer 2024 following the end of its current lease at One Embankment. The Bank will occupy three floors of the newly refurbished premises, alongside the National Infrastructure Commission and the Low Carbon Contracts Company. The move to Whitehall Quay reflects UKIB’s long-term commitment to Leeds and its continued contributions to the economic and professional vibrancy of one of the largest centres for finance and professional services outside London. With almost 250 permanent staff, the new space will also accommodate the Bank’s changing needs as a larger and more established organisation. James Emmett, COO of UK Infrastructure Bank, said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our commitment to Leeds with a new space at 2 Whitehall Quay. The fact UKIB is anchored in the city is a key part of the Bank’s identity, and we are proud to have our headquarters here. “Signing this long-term lease marks the next chapter in UKIB’s development and recognises the strength of the talent and expertise in the region’s vibrant financial ecosystem. “Our new premises will provide a space that enables us to house our staff, meet with clients, attract the best talent and collaborate in our mission to tackle climate change and boost growth across the UK.” James Heath, Chief Executive of the National Infrastructure Commission, said: “Working alongside the UK Infrastructure Bank at the heart of one of the UK’s greatest cities has already brought us benefits, both in opportunities to engage with local civic and business leaders but also in terms of the quality of staff we have attracted from around Yorkshire and beyond. “We’re pleased to have found a long-term home here and look forward to continuing to grow our presence in Leeds.” Andrew Deeley, Director of Strategy and Development, LCCC, said: “The recent collocation with UKIB and the NIC in Leeds allows us to be at the heart of some of the greatest decarbonisation projects in Great Britain. We look forward to working with UKIB and the NIC, and getting to know this fantastic city.”

18th Century cloth hall in central Leeds to become food and drink hall following sale

Tess Egginton
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18th Century cloth hall in central Leeds to become food and drink hall following sale
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has completed the sale of White Cloth Hall, a former market hall in the heart of Leeds city centre. Located behind the Corn Exchange in central Leeds, the White Cloth Hall was originally built in 1775 as a market for the sale of undyed cloth. Most recently, the property housed three separate businesses including a BrewDog bar and Pizza Express. The White Cloth Hall has been acquired by Ed Mason, co-founder of Five Points Brewing and Managing Director of popular Leeds-based pub, Whitelock’s Ale House Ltd. Ed intends to re-convert the newly acquired premise into a single unit, and re-open as a food and drink hall, which will champion Leeds’ thriving independent food and drink scene. He says: “We are delighted to have acquired this beautiful and iconic Grade II listed building which has played an important role in the civic and cultural life of Leeds city centre for 250 years. “From its original creation as a market hall for the trading of cloth, to its most recent incarnation as Leeds’ first Pizza Express – it has always been a bustling and busy venue in the heart of Leeds. We were delighted to work with Christie & Co to get this project over the line and get this wonderful building back in to use!” Alex Rex, Senior Business Agent at Christie & Co who handled the sale, says: “Whitelocks is one of my favourite places to visit when I’m in Leeds, so it was a pleasure meeting the owners and the team behind the pub and helping them to secure their next project. “We were inundated with interest for this unique building in Leeds city centre, and it took an experienced operator and a great team to be able to see a vision and I can’t wait to see it executed.”

Commercial property team welcomes new Partner

Tess Egginton
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Commercial property team welcomes new Partner
Sills & Betteridge LLP, a regional law firm offering a wide range of corporate and commercial services, have appointed Partner Wendy Martin to its team. Primarily based at the firm’s Marshalls Yard, Gainsborough and Hallgate, Doncaster offices, Wendy will handle the commercial property matters for a growing number of clients in the North Lincolnshire – South Yorkshire area. Wendy has practiced exclusively in commercial property since qualifying as a solicitor in 1997. She has extensive experience in acting for a wide range of clients including small independent business owners, SMEs, larger national companies, investors and pension schemes, advising on new leases, assignments, licences, and freehold and leasehold sales and purchases for occupiers and investors. Wendy said: “It is great to join Sills & Betteridge at such an exciting time of growth and I look forward to working with the existing team to further grow the firm’s commercial property offering in the area.” Head of Department Malachy McGill said: “Wendy’s appointment is a very positive development for the team. She is a highly-rated property specialist with a strong background and we are confident that she will play a key part in our plans to build our commercial profile across the north of our region.” Sills & Betteridge now has 18 offices across Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and the East Midlands employing over 400 people. The firm acquired Nottingham-headquartered Campions Solicitors in March 2024 and looks forward to relocating to larger premises in Sheffield, Northampton and Sleaford later this year.

Hull City Council varies Arup contract as it explores heating network expansion

Stuart Pearcey
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Hull City Council varies Arup contract as it explores heating network expansion
Hull City Council is exploring the possibilities for expansion of the city’s Heating Network as it confirms that it has varied its existing contract with technical consultants Ove Arup and Partners. This will enable scope changes to the design of HDHN, including future connections to East Bank Urban Village, as well as providing additional network routing to Great Thornton Street Flats and an enhanced energy centre at Trippett Street. With £10 million of Levelling Up funding allocated to the East Bank development, it presents an opportunity to provide district heat to the site as part of the enabling works. A direct connection from HDHN to Great Thornton Street Flats would significantly lower construction and operational risks, whilst an enhanced energy centre at Trippett Street would mean an energy centre on Anlaby Road is not required. Also included are energy performance and building fabric assessments to those council buildings connecting to the network. This will provide a holistic approach to the future decarbonisation of buildings and maximising the performance of the HDHN. These contract variations will incur £270,905 of costs to the council which will be partly financed through its funding allocation of £13m from Green Heat Network Fund received in 2022.
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