£3.6bn worth of Lincolnshire projects promoted to investors

April Lara
-
0
£3.6bn worth of Lincolnshire projects promoted to investors

Greater Lincolnshire is pitching a £3.6 billion portfolio of investable projects to national and international stakeholders, with regional leaders positioning the area as a critical hub for UK infrastructure, technology, and energy. At this year’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds, the newly formed Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority outlined 17 live investment opportunities spanning sectors from AI and advanced logistics to renewable energy and regeneration.

Among the standout developments is a planned AI Growth Zone in North Lincolnshire. The zone proposes over 1,300 hectares of developable land across four sites, offering significant processing capacity and space for data infrastructure. Strategic locations include land around the Scunthorpe steelworks and the Elsham Wolds Industrial Estate.

Port-related development is also gaining traction. The Pioneer Business Park, recently acquired by ABP, is being shaped into a new logistics corridor closely tied to the Port of Immingham activity. Meanwhile, a major regeneration scheme at Grimsby Docks could transform the historic Ice Factory into a mixed-use precinct anchored by a new hotel and venue space. In addition, Humber Freeport continues to be marketed as a strategic asset for offshore wind and heavy industry, with tax incentives covering hundreds of hectares of land and deep-water access.

The Greater Lincolnshire delegation used its platform to reinforce its push for more devolved powers and funding. The new mayoral administration is working to unlock national support to fast-track infrastructure delivery, increase private-sector engagement, and elevate the county’s role in national supply chains. The pitch signals a broader ambition to position Lincolnshire as a recipient of investment and a driver of innovation and productivity for UK plc.

Saffery strengthens audit team

Tess Egginton
-
0
Saffery strengthens audit team
Chartered accounting and business advisory firm, Saffery, has promoted Dan Noble to audit manager and appointed Kim Liu as audit manager within the firm’s specialist not-for-profit and charity audit team, in Leeds. Dan joined Saffery in 2020 and was drawn to the firm because of its not-for-profit and charity offering. Since joining, he has completed his Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification whilst building strong relationships with a broad portfolio of regional and national clients. Dan regularly attends clients’ committee meetings and organises year-round touchpoints to aid year-end planning, alongside taking an active role in the day to day running of the audit. Dan said: “I’ve had brilliant support from the team at Saffery throughout my career to date. The progression pathways are clear, the training opportunities are fantastic, and people here genuinely want to see you succeed. I enjoy the variety of the client work, and the opportunity to make a real difference to charities and not-for-profit organisations.” Joining Dan in the team is Kim Liu, who brings over 16 years of experience specialising in not-for-profit and charity audits, having previously worked at HW Fisher and Field Sullivan. Kim recently relocated from London to Yorkshire, and she will contribute her extensive knowledge and client-focused approach to a range of organisations including schools, academies, community foundations, and other charities, often within the arts sector. Kim said: “Saffery is a very well-known name in the not-for-profit and charity sectors, with a person centric approach and commitment to long-term planning and accountability. Moving from London to a small market town in North Yorkshire is a big change, but the fact that Saffery is based in the heart of Leeds, means I can still enjoy city life!” Head of Saffery in Leeds, Sally Appleton, said: “Dan is passionate about supporting not-for-profit organisations and charities and his deep sector expertise is a real asset to our Yorkshire office and our wider national team. “Kim is known for her personable style, and she will work closely with our clients and colleagues across Saffery’s offices to deliver practical, tailored advice. Their appointments reflect our continued investment in talent to support the evolving needs of our clients in this important sector.”

Work completes on £14m project at Minsthorpe Community College

Tess Egginton
-
0
Work completes on £14m project at Minsthorpe Community College
Henry Boot Construction has completed work on a new net-zero-carbon-in-operation sports facility and the refurbishment of teaching spaces at Minsthorpe Community College in South Elmsall. The facility includes two activity studios, changing rooms, toilets, storage facilities, office space, and a 6,394 sq ft main sports hall which opened in January this year. The final phase – including the installation of a new multi-use games area (MUGA) – has now been completed, marking the full handover of the project which has been funded by the Department for Education. Construction began in summer 2023 to replace the previous outdated sports facilities, alongside refurbishment works to several of the existing blocks. The sports facility has achieved an EPC A+ rating and forms part of Minsthorpe Community College’s long-term strategy to enhance sports provision and establish a central hub for community engagement and physical wellbeing. In addition to meeting net-zero-in-operation standards, the facility also incorporates a green roof and integrated sustainable drainage solutions to enhance both biodiversity and environmental performance. Ryan O’Loughlin, regional director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have delivered a facility that will have a lasting impact on both the students of Minsthorpe Community College and the wider South Elmsall, South Kirby, and Upton community. “From day one, this project was about more than just bricks and mortar, it was about creating a sustainable space that supports physical and mental wellbeing, learning and community engagement. “Throughout the project, we also placed a strong focus on delivering social value – adopting a student-led approach to shaping the future of their sports facilities. We believe that quality social value is achieved through genuine collaboration, and we’re confident this development leaves a positive legacy that the whole community can be proud of.” Joint principals Mark Gilmore and Rachael Merritt, from Minsthorpe Community College, added: “We were delighted to be chosen as one of the first 50 schools to be part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme. “The new sports centre and surrounding works, including a new multi-use games area, is the final piece in the jigsaw in bringing the College’s facilities into the 21st century – meaning the experiences of both our amazing students and fantastic community will be enriched for years to come.”

Report highlights need for life sciences grow-on space in West Yorkshire

Tess Egginton
-
0
Report highlights need for life sciences grow-on space in West Yorkshire
A new report by CBRE, commissioned by West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), has highlighted the acute need for more grow-on space for life sciences, and in particular digital health companies if the region is going to fulfill its potential and retain its home-grown talent. CBRE’s research found that with over 600 health and life sciences companies, including 250 MedTech firms and over 90 digital health enterprises, West Yorkshire is emerging as a top ten cluster due to its vibrant start-up culture, skilled graduates and strong research network. The 51,618 sector professionals across the region represent a 10% annual growth and Leeds has a significantly higher density of these employees than the national average. The UK is aiming to develop 21 million sq ft of lab space by 2030 and investment currently remains concentrated in established hubs. CBRE’s report shows increasing investor interest in the sector, with 58% of funding from Venture Capital funds into West Yorkshire going to life sciences and technology. However, if the region is going to continue to attract investment and retain home grown talent, it will need to address the supply issue. Jonathan Lowe, head of science & technology for the North at CBRE, explains: “West Yorkshire has done a fantastic job of enabling start-ups to get established, evidenced by the fact that Leeds University’s Nexus incubator is nearing capacity, so the question now is where these companies will move to. “The key is to keep that talent, innovation and the associated jobs within the region and provide a range of flexible space with a combination of offices, labs and industrial facilities to satisfy demand. It is important to encourage clustering to enable knowledge and resource sharing and avoid new facilities becoming too disbursed.” CBRE’s report shows there are 44 live occupier requirements in West Yorkshire, with remaining lab availability limited at Nexus in Leeds and Huddersfield’s 3M Buckley Innovation Centre. All of the available lab space across the region is within suites of 2,000 sq ft and below, leaving little room for growth. Most grow-on requirements start above 5,000 sq ft, therefore intervention is required to bridge this gap. Lowe continues: “The repurposing of office stock is certainly a viable solution, particularly for digital health companies who don’t typically require the same specific requirements of wet lab facilities. Redundant space within medical and university estates could present opportunities, providing the buildings have the underlying building infrastructure fundamentals within locations surrounding the key research institutions.” Looking ahead, there is 45,166 sq ft of lab and office space to come forward at Old Medical School in Leeds but this isn’t set to be available until 2027. The future development pipeline for West Yorkshire also includes future phases of Innovation Village in Leeds, the National Health Innovation Campus in Huddersfield and the focus in Bradford on the Knowledge Quarter. CBRE’s report concluded that the West Yorkshire life sciences sector holds significant growth potential and that by addressing specific real estate needs, fostering clustering and investing in targeted incubator and grow on development, the region can solidify its position as a competitive player in the UK life science landscape.

Corporate partnership boosts children’s reading as literacy charity partners with Project Group

Tess Egginton
-
0
Corporate partnership boosts children’s reading as literacy charity partners with Project Group
National children’s reading charity Schoolreaders has partnered with a furnishing, fit-out and service provider to enhance employee wellbeing and support reading ability in primary schools. Project Group sought to expand its ESG programme by offering meaningful, holistic support for its staff working in fast-paced environments. After research and a word-of-mouth recommendation, Project Group partnered with Schoolreaders, a charity which provides free reading support to primary schools. Andrea Ball, group ESG and social value director at Project Group, said: “As a volunteer myself, I’ve had the opportunity to support reading and mentoring programmes with previous employers, and it’s something I’m passionate about. As ESG lead, I wanted to help create a similar initiative within Project Group. “Providing literacy support to children is so important, and when I learned that one in four children in the UK leave primary school unable to read to the expected standard, I was truly shocked. Reading is key to unlocking countless opportunities in education, and no child should be at a disadvantage due to lack of proper literacy support. “Programmes like Schoolreaders’ play a crucial role in supporting children and enhancing their educational outcomes, playing a key role in building the workforce of tomorrow, and I wanted Project Group to be a part of that effort.” In 2024, more than half of children and young people reported that they do not enjoy reading in their free time, the lowest levels since 2005. One of the key reasons that children are not learning to read is that they are getting insufficient one-to-one reading time with an adult. Schoolreaders matches volunteers to local primary schools and provides over 33,000 weekly classroom reading sessions in England, connecting volunteers with primary schools. Working with Schoolreaders, four Project Group employees were matched with schools local to them, half of which were only two miles from their office. Each volunteer supports two classes each week, reading with up to twelve year 5 and 6 pupils. So far, Project Group staff have found that the programme has allowed them to step away from their usual work-day routine for a few hours, providing them with a break to recharge. Staff have reported improved wellbeing and mental health, acknowledging visits to school as ‘wholesome’ and ‘satisfying’. Julie Davies, group HR operations manager at Project Group, said: “I’ve really enjoyed being a Schoolreader so far, and I love building a connection with the students I support. Working with the children makes you laugh and gives you a real sense of work-life balance by taking you out of the everyday routine. “I’d encourage other businesses to get involved with Schoolreaders, even if it starts purely as part of their wellbeing programme. There’s definitely a place for it, and companies can gain so much – improving wellbeing, building skills, and more. That’s why our directors are fully behind it too.” Sara Cockroft, co-headteacher at Beech Hill Primary School, said: “When we looked at the end of last year where we’d had support from volunteers over that previous year, the children who had received support from Schoolreaders volunteers, had made more than the expected progress. “Schoolreaders build wonderful relationships with students and that means a lot to us at this school. The children really value that time, and, even if they weren’t making the excellent progress, that would be enough.”

Durata brings fabrication in-house with Tolley acquisition

April Lara
-
0
Durata brings fabrication in-house with Tolley acquisition

Durata, a provider of critical power and modular data centre infrastructure, has acquired County Durham-based Tolley Fabrications to vertically integrate its operations. The acquisition brings fabrication capabilities in-house for the first time, enabling the company to enhance control over quality, speed up delivery timelines, and streamline its manufacturing workflow.

This strategic deal supports Durata’s broader international growth agenda, allowing it to respond more efficiently to global demand for scalable and resilient data centre infrastructure. It also supports evolving market needs driven by AI adoption, cloud computing, 5G expansion, and rising data consumption.

The integration is expected to strengthen Durata’s competitiveness by reducing supply chain dependencies and improving responsiveness in delivering bespoke solutions to clients. The move also reinforces the company’s manufacturing footprint in the North-East of England, with an expanded presence at Tursdale Business Park and plans to create additional regional jobs.

By bringing fabrication under its direct control, Durata positions itself to deliver end-to-end infrastructure solutions with greater speed and flexibility, capabilities increasingly required in a rapidly evolving digital environment. The company aims to set new industry benchmarks in agility, reliability, and operational resilience in the data centre space.

£200m Crown Square regeneration begins in Middlesbrough

April Lara
-
0
£200m Crown Square regeneration begins in Middlesbrough

A £200 million urban regeneration scheme in Middlesbrough, Crown Square, has officially launched. The scheme aims to revitalise the town’s central area and Gresham district. The project was unveiled at UKREiiF, a national property event, and is positioned as one of the most significant redevelopment efforts in the region in decades.

Led by developers iMpeC and Buccleuch Property in partnership with the Middlesbrough Development Corporation, the scheme is set to deliver 1,500 new homes and create approximately 4,000 jobs. The first development phase includes more than 230 build-to-rent flats, purpose-built student accommodation for over 400 residents, and one of the UK’s first Fairfield by Marriott hotels. Planning permission for the initial phase has already been granted.

Crown Square aims to address the town’s historic underinvestment while leveraging its existing assets, including a major university campus with £280 million in recent investment, a growing digital economy, and the industrial expansion at Teesworks. The project also integrates mixed-use residential and hospitality developments with co-working amenities, fitness facilities, and concierge services.

A second phase public consultation is scheduled for summer 2025 as the project continues to seek business and investor engagement.

Hisense UK boosts sales by £73m as Leeds arm navigates rising costs

April Lara
-
0
Hisense UK boosts sales by £73m as Leeds arm navigates rising costs

Hisense UK, the Leeds-based division of the Chinese electronics and appliances group, reported a £73.4 million increase in turnover for 2024, reaching £373.8 million compared to £300.4 million the previous year. Pre-tax profits also rose to £3.7 million, up from £2.8 million.

Despite the strong top-line performance, the company faced margin pressure due to a nearly 29% rise in administrative expenses, primarily driven by office relocation costs, and a 33% increase in distribution expenses. This resulted in a modest profit margin of 1.01%, slightly ahead of 2023’s 0.94%.

Hisense UK reduced its outstanding debtor balance by more than 30% to £49.8 million by offering discounts to accelerate customer payments before year-end.

Amid ongoing economic uncertainty in the UK, the company maintains a cautious yet strategic approach to growth. It aims to adapt to evolving retail dynamics and enhance brand visibility across local and international markets.

Ambitious regeneration plans take step forward in Wakefield

Tess Egginton
-
0
Ambitious regeneration plans take step forward in Wakefield
Muse has signed a Pre-Development Agreement with Wakefield Council as part of ambitious regeneration plans for the city. It follows the announcement, earlier this year, that Wakefield Council had appointed Muse as its new Strategic Regeneration Partner as it seeks to deliver the next phase of major regeneration projects across the city. In partnership with Wakefield Council, Muse will now explore how to progress the next steps of Wakefield Council’s Masterplan, which lays out its vision for the future of the city centre. This will include master planning and design, site acquisition and investigations and working in partnership with Wakefield City Council and other key stakeholders to develop funding and delivery strategies for key areas of the city centre. The Masterplan will aim to deliver over 2,500 new homes and commercial accommodation alongside improved public spaces, better connectivity, and vibrant mixed-use neighbourhoods that will support new jobs and investment in the city. Simon Dew, development director at Muse, said: “Signing this Pre-Development Agreement with Wakefield Council marks a pivotal step in bringing our shared Masterplan vision for the city to life. “By engaging at this early stage, we gain the flexibility to finetune design, progress site acquisition and delivery strategies whilst working closely with the council, Homes England and WYCA to accelerate progress and unlock funding as part of the Strategic Place Partnership. “This collaborative approach will ensure we can respond swiftly to changing market and community needs, delivering high quality, sustainable regeneration for Wakefield at pace. ”
Cllr Michael Graham, cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, said: “Our latest step forward with Muse reinforces the scale of our ambition to revitalise Wakefield city centre. “Together we will set out a clear plan for the delivery of new residential and commercial development in our city. The agreement underpins our ambition to create inclusive, sustainable growth and maximise investment. “Our partnership will help us continue to deliver change for our communities, create places we can all be proud of, and strengthen our local economy. I look forward to working with Muse to make Wakefield an even better place to live work and visit.”

Shared Prosperity Fund adds £39m to York economy

Tess Egginton
-
0
Shared Prosperity Fund adds £39m to York economy

City of York Council is celebrating the success of its UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) investment programme, which has delivered benefits to businesses, communities, and residents.

The funding has added £6.30 to York’s economy for every £1 invested – a total of £39 million. City of York Council invested £5,507,510 from the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, in addition to £384,817 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. The funds aimed to boost productivity and living standards, increase pride in place and build strong communities. The funding has been invested through a wide-ranging programme of grant and support schemes aimed at supporting businesses and local communities. Cllr Pete Kilbane, executive member at City of York Council for economy and culture, said: “The impacts of this investment have touched all parts of our city – from supporting entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality and enabling people to gain employable skills, to regenerating Acomb’s Front Street and bringing diverse cultural opportunities to York. “I’m extremely proud to see that 125 jobs have been created or safeguarded as a direct result of this funding, with hundreds more people benefiting from opportunities to build the skills and confidence they need to secure rewarding, well-paid employment. “The fact that this investment has contributed £39 million to York’s economy is due in no small part to the energy and passion that I’ve seen demonstrated time and again by the people and organisations who we’ve worked with throughout this programme and who have turned this funding into real change and opportunity for our people, places and communities.”

£65m secured for Leeds Build to Rent scheme

Tess Egginton
-
0
£65m secured for Leeds Build to Rent scheme
Maslow Capital, a specialist provider of real estate finance, has completed a £65 million development facility with Torsion Developments, the development arm of the vertically integrated Torsion Group, to deliver Flax Place, a Build to Rent (BTR) scheme in Leeds. The project will create 300 apartments on a vacant brownfield site to the east of the city centre. Designed by Day Architecture, Flax Place comprises two towers of 9 and 14 storeys, linked by a shared podium. Residents will benefit from amenities including communal lounges and co-working areas, secure cycle storage, and on-site leisure facilities. Construction began at the end of 2024, is progressing on programme – with all four concrete cores already complete – and is scheduled for practical completion in April 2027. The development has been forward sold to Starlight Investments. Emma Burke, managing director, development finance at Maslow Capital, said: “We are delighted to partner once again with Torsion Developments, whose delivery capability continues to impress. “Flax Place will play a vital role in narrowing Leeds’ acute housing shortfall while offering residents best-in-class amenities. Maslow Capital remains committed to providing the flexible capital that drives quality housing where it is needed most.” Financial advisory GLPG acted as capital advisor to the borrower, supporting Torsion Developments throughout the funding process.

Uber launches courier service for business deliveries in Sheffield and beyond

April Lara
-
0
Uber launches courier service for business deliveries in Sheffield and beyond

Uber has rolled out a new courier service across the UK, including Sheffield, for individuals and small businesses needing fast, local deliveries. The new feature, Uber Courier, is now available through the Uber app and allows users to send and receive items up to 15 lbs in weight and under £200 in value.

Currently, the service is available in cities such as Sheffield, Glasgow, Oxford, Edinburgh, Leicester, and Belfast. By summer, it is expected to reach 20 locations. Upcoming rollouts include key business hubs such as Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Bristol.

Designed to support sectors like retail, legal services, and independent boutiques, Uber Courier enables SMEs to manage local deliveries on demand without traditional logistics contracts. Features such as real-time tracking, PIN code verification, and shareable updates for recipients support deliveries.

Uber Courier integrates directly into the existing app, offering a streamlined delivery solution that helps small businesses maintain customer satisfaction while staying flexible and cost-effective.

Jaywing acquired by Stubben Edge to boost fintech marketing capabilities

April Lara
-
0
Jaywing acquired by Stubben Edge to boost fintech marketing capabilities

Stubben Edge Group has acquired Jaywing’s UK operations in a move designed to strengthen both companies’ offerings at the intersection of financial technology and data-driven marketing.

Jaywing, a long-standing agency with a 25-year track record in data science, artificial intelligence, and integrated marketing, will bring its analytics and creative capabilities into Stubben Edge’s expanding fintech platform. The deal is expected to accelerate product development and service innovation across both businesses, particularly in delivering measurable growth solutions for financial services clients.

Stubben Edge, known for its technology-first approach to insurance and financial services, continues to scale its operations through strategic acquisitions. Adding Jaywing enhances the group’s capacity to provide marketing, data, and AI-led insights as part of its broader financial solutions.

The acquisition also gives Jaywing access to new markets and resources, positioning the team to offer more comprehensive, end-to-end services to clients navigating complex, regulated sectors.

This move reflects a broader trend in the financial services industry, where the convergence of marketing intelligence and fintech innovation is becoming critical to competitive advantage. Jaywing will operate as part of the Stubben Edge Group going forward, contributing its expertise to support continued client growth.

Car dealership takes over former Wakefield bakery site

April Lara
-
0
Car dealership takes over former Wakefield bakery site

Wakefield Council has approved a proposal from Cars 2 Limited to repurpose a former industrial bakery site near the city centre as a vehicle storage facility.

The site, previously occupied by Speedibake and owned by Associated British Foods, was shut down permanently following a major fire in February 2020. The damage led to the facility’s demolition, with the company citing the cost and time required for a rebuild as prohibitive.

Under the approved plans, up to 400 vehicles will be stored on the brownfield site. The location will be an overflow and logistical hub for several nearby car showrooms, including Hyundai, Seat, Nissan, and Renault.

The move is positioned as a strategic expansion for Cars 2 Limited. It aims to ease on-site congestion at its retail locations and consolidate bulk deliveries and collections at a single, more efficient site.

The development brings a long-vacant plot back into commercial use and supports the continued growth of a local employer.

West Yorkshire programme backs female-led high-growth ventures

April Lara
-
0
West Yorkshire programme backs female-led high-growth ventures

A new business support initiative has launched in West Yorkshire aimed at helping women founders accelerate investment and growth.

The programme, delivered through a partnership between the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the University of Bradford, BREE (Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem), and Lifted Ventures, targets 20 women-led businesses building high-potential ventures in the region. It offers two tailored tracks: a six-month intensive investment readiness accelerator and a more extensive two-year programme focused on long-term business development.

Applications are open to women founders and co-founders of businesses registered in West Yorkshire. The first cohort will begin in June 2025.

The six-month track provides training in business model development, go-to-market strategies, mentorship, and investor panels. It culminates in a pitch showcase at the Athena Festival in Leeds and a final event in Bradford. Participation is free.

The longer 18-month programme includes access to University of Bradford facilities, one-to-one mentoring, fortnightly workshops, fundraising support, and workspace resources. In exchange, the University takes a 15% equity stake in the business, with an option for the founder to buy back half (7.5%) for a capped £12,500.

The British Business Bank supports the initiative and forms part of broader efforts to address gender imbalances in entrepreneurship and regional investment access. Applications close on 30 May 2025.

Step forward for plans doubling Bradford city centre

Tess Egginton
-
0
Step forward for plans doubling Bradford city centre
Plans to create a new district in Bradford which will double the size of the city centre have taken a step forward. As part of its Bradford Showcase event, which is running alongside this year’s UKREiiF regeneration forum, Bradford Council announced that global consultancy Arup has been commissioned to create the master plan for the future of Southern Gateway. The Southern Gateway has been earmarked as one of the biggest regeneration sites in the UK, powered by £4.5bn in transport upgrades, including Mass Transit and a new Bradford rail station. This is a transformational opportunity bringing with it huge economic and social benefits. The inner-city Southern Gateway site, with borders along Manchester Road and Leeds Road, will offer high-quality, high-density office, commercial and residential developments alongside new public realm and green spaces. The master plan, which is expected to be created over 12 months, will deliver specific proposals, taking into account the requirements of the development, as well as respecting the city’s heritage and generating landscape enhancements. Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will drive growth for the district, strengthen supply chains, boost productivity and attract private investment, ensuring Bradford thrives in a competitive landscape. “The master plan will create a tangible, detailed proposal from street level right the way up to how the new district will work within the city as a whole, and it will be key in terms of attracting future investment. “Bradford is the largest city without direct access to the major north-south rail lines. A new ‘through’ rail station in the Southern Gateway is critical to delivering the social and economic benefits of faster travel between regional economic hubs and also to London. “It will unlock opportunities for young people, with faster, easier access to jobs, apprenticeships, and universities. It means more choices, more freedom, and clearer paths to success – connecting young people to the skills, careers, and futures they deserve.” Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said: “Bradford’s Southern Gateway represents one of the biggest and most exciting regeneration opportunities in the UK. “With the potential for 5,000 new homes, alongside a new through station and new tram line to Leeds, these plans will grow our economy and ensure our region can prosper for years to come. “Working with Arup and Bradford Council, we can put more money in people’s pockets, and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.” Associate director at Arup, Niall Bourke said: “The Southern Gateway Masterplan reflects the city of Bradford’s vision and commitment to creating an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future. “Building on the progress already made, Arup will work closely with the Council, local stakeholders and communities to develop a plan that reflects Bradford’s heritage and identity while enabling future growth through investment in infrastructure and public space. “With the future rail station and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s mass transit plans providing momentum, the masterplan will set out a clear path for new homes, jobs, cultural opportunities and improved connectivity, strengthening the case for further investment and supporting the long-term transformation of the city and wider region.” Proposals have been agreed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for the Mass Transit tram system running between Leeds and Bradford. It is hoped the early construction stage of the project will begin in 2028. Phase one would include two lines serving Leeds and Bradford and the Bradford Line would run from Leeds city centre to Bradford city centre, also linking Bradford Forster Square with the planned new Bradford rail station. The ambition is for six trains an hour to run to Leeds, with a journey time as short as 12 minutes, with a 30-minute journey time to Manchester. The project is a major part of the next phase of Bradford’s regeneration, which so far has seen the delivery of the Broadway shopping centre, a £45m pedestrianisation scheme funded through the Transforming Cities Fund, One City Park, Bradford Live entertainment venue, and Darley St Market (which now frees up land for the City Village development) as well as Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture 2025.

UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

April Lara
-
0
UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

The UK Government is actively considering introducing hydrogen blending into the national gas network as part of wider decarbonisation efforts. According to energy minister Michael Shanks, a formal decision is expected shortly following an evidence-gathering phase assessing the impact on consumers and infrastructure.

Blending up to 20% hydrogen with natural gas is technically feasible with most existing boilers and appliances in domestic and commercial settings. Gas network operators have indicated that current infrastructure could handle such a mix without significant modifications, offering a transitional path toward lower-carbon heating.

Scotland is leading several green hydrogen production projects to leverage the country’s renewable energy capacity. Recent developments include a large-scale hydrogen facility approved in Kintore, Aberdeenshire, and discussions around the Grangemouth industrial site as a potential hydrogen hub.

While hydrogen presents a cleaner alternative to natural gas, its lower energy density requires greater volumes to produce the same heat output. This raises ongoing questions about the viability of a 100% hydrogen gas grid for domestic use.

University of Sheffield reveals 100-acre Runway Park development

Tess Egginton
-
0
University of Sheffield reveals 100-acre Runway Park development

A University of Sheffield development designed to attract investment, create high-quality jobs and accelerate economic growth has been launched to industry.

Runway Park, the evolution of the University of Sheffield’s Innovation District, is a 100-acre development that links the University’s world-class research with the real-world challenges faced by a wide range of businesses, from growing companies to household name multinationals.

The development is located on land already owned by the University of Sheffield, on the site of the former Sheffield City Airport. This surrounding area is already home to companies including Boeing, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, McLaren Automotive and others harnessing the University’s research and development facilities and collaborating with its researchers to advance technology and manufacturing.

The University of Sheffield Innovation District was initially developed in 2015 when Factory 2050, the UK’s first reconfigurable digital factory, was completed. Since then, a host of other specialist University of Sheffield research centres have been established there, including the Translational Energy Research Centre, Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre, Royce Translational Centre, the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre and more.

In 2018, Boeing opened its first European manufacturing site nearby, following almost two decades of collaboration between the company and the University of Sheffield.

Now, the Runway Park development is accelerating efforts to advance the development, translate University research into real-world solutions for industry and build on Sheffield and the wider region’s reputation as a leader in innovation-led growth.

Professor Koen Lamberts, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: “The evolution of the University’s innovation district with the launch of Runway Park marks a significant milestone in our mission to help the region reach its full potential, while making an even stronger contribution to economic growth.

“We have seen the impact of innovation-led growth, with the University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) transforming the Sheffield/Rotherham border into a global hub for advanced manufacturing over the last 20 years. As part of the UK’s first government-backed Investment Zone in South Yorkshire, our vision for Runway Park will build on this considerable momentum.

“We look forward to working with partners to deliver bespoke solutions to industry, catalyse growth opportunities and attract the investment the region needs to continue on a path to prosperity.”

Linda Goodacre, director of estates and facilities at the University of Sheffield, said: “Runway Park reflects our long-term commitment to creating places that are not only fit for the future, but actively help shape it. Designed with flexibility, resilience and sustainability at its core, the site brings together high-performance buildings and green infrastructure to offer exceptional working and collaboration environments for tenants of all sizes.

“From our energy-efficient facilities and on-site renewable energy to acres of biodiverse parkland and walkable green space, Runway Park gives businesses the room – and the responsibility – to grow sustainably.”

United Living boosts water business with Peter Duffy acquisition

Tess Egginton
-
0
United Living boosts water business with Peter Duffy acquisition
United Living has acquired Peter Duffy Ltd, a civil engineering contractor specialising in water infrastructure. The Wakefield-based business will become part of United Living’s Infrastructure Services division, operating within the expanding water business. Established in 1972, Peter Duffy Ltd is a family-owned business and brings decades of experience delivering major engineering solutions for water networks. Following United Living’s acquisition of water solutions provider AFECO in April 2024, this strategic acquisition of Peter Duffy Ltd marks another major step in the group’s commitment to growing its presence in the UK’s water sector, particularly in wastewater services.
Neil Armstrong, chairman and CEO, United Living Group, said: “The acquisition of Peter Duffy Ltd represents another key milestone in our strategy to become a market leader in wastewater infrastructure. “As the sector enters a period of transformational growth driven by environmental, political, and regulatory pressures, as well as long-standing underinvestment, United Living is well-positioned to be a trusted partner in delivering the sustainable, resilient water infrastructure the UK needs.” Peter Duffy, managing director, Peter Duffy Ltd, said: “At this critical time for the water sector, with increasing demand for reputable service providers, being part of the United Living Group presents an exciting opportunity to further develop Peter Duffy Ltd’s strong brand and service offering. “United Living recognises the value of our long-standing history and is committed to building on this foundation to drive continued growth and excellence.”

NatWest backs Leeds Bradford Airport expansion with £160m package

April Lara
-
0
NatWest backs Leeds Bradford Airport expansion with £160m package

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has secured £160 million in financing from NatWest to support a major terminal expansion project. The project is expected to significantly boost its capacity and infrastructure by 2030.

The financing, arranged by NatWest’s Debt Advisory team, combines refinancing of existing debt with an increased capital expenditure facility. The funding will help advance LBA’s REGEN project, which is focused on modernising the terminal and increasing passenger capacity from 4.3 million to around 6.8 million annually.

LBA, which InfraBridge owns, has shown a strong post-pandemic recovery and is currently operating at 113% of its 2019 passenger traffic. It is the first airport in Northern England to exceed pre-COVID traffic levels. The terminal upgrades are expected to enhance the airport’s commercial offering and passenger experience, positioning it for continued growth in European connectivity.

InfraBridge, a global mid-market infrastructure investor, counts LBA among its key assets in the transport and logistics sector.

1...141516...489Page 15 of 489