Green light for Phase One of transformational Attercliffe Waterside mixed-use scheme in Sheffield
Sustainable developer Citu has secured planning permission for Phase One of the landmark Attercliffe Waterside urban regeneration scheme in Sheffield.
The 23-acre brownfield site is owned by Sheffield City Council and straddles either side of Sheffield and Tinsley Canal, once a vital waterway in powering the city’s Industrial Revolution. The transformational scheme will celebrate the rich heritage of the site which has laid derelict for years and is now destined to become one of the largest low carbon communities in the UK.
Around 1,000 homes will be delivered in three phases across the scheme, complemented by community focussed leisure opportunities and creative workspaces. Phase One – which includes 362 homes, new public realm, a new pedestrian bridge across the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal, and the repurposing of existing buildings – was approved by Sheffield City Council’s Planning and Highways Committee yesterday (Tuesday 9 July).
The first phase on the north side of the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal will form the heart of the new district, with work expected to begin this autumn on the leisure and commercial elements, ahead of construction of the first homes on site.
Six existing historic buildings will be reimagined at the centre of the new neighbourhood that will include a café, bar, bakery, restaurant, offices and multi-purpose venue. Contemporary designs and surviving architecture will be interwoven to create a new Attercliffe Waterside that respects its industrial heritage and paves the way for a sustainable future.
A public and commercial square will also be created, alongside a series of south-facing courtyards and walkways down to the canal. The new pedestrian and cycling footbridge will connect Phase One to the south side of the river, opening up the community to Sheffield’s wider East End, additional green space and a tram stop for easy access to the city centre.
The first homes to be built on the site will consist of 3 & 4-bedroom townhouses and 1 & 2-bedroom apartments, all constructed using Citu’s ground-breaking timber-framed housing system. This combines bold architecture with flexible designs alongside sustainable, low carbon materials to ensure the highest standards of energy efficiency.
The houses will be constructed on a podium which sits above an under-croft car park, with plans to remove cars from specific stretches of Effingham Road which will be replaced with pedestrianisation, public realm and a cycle lane, all part of the scheme’s vision to create a landscape that prioritises people over cars.
Public art by local artists will also be introduced throughout the public and private spaces, with murals on building facades, existing building structures being repurposed as sculptural artefacts and imaginative new play areas integrated into the local landscape.
Chris Thompson, founder and co-director from Citu, said: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for Phase One of Attercliffe Waterside that will kickstart the wider regeneration of Sheffield’s East End.
“It’s an area steeped in history and our plans have been inspired by the heritage industries that were powered by the waterways running through it. The area presents huge opportunities from its location alongside the canal and the River Don, with green space, the Olympic Legacy Park and easy access to the city centre by tram in just ten minutes.
“We are creating a new community in this beautiful waterside location that will have its own identity; one that pays homage to the area’s rich history but that adapts the landscape to address the various challenges of our day, not least the climate emergency.
“Attercliffe Waterside will enable future generations to live more sustainable lifestyles, in homes that are built to the highest environmental performance standards, setting an exemplar nationally for this type of regeneration.”
Following the planning decision, Cllr Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Committee, said: “The Attercliffe Waterside development is a tremendously ambitious project but one we are incredibly excited about and, working with Citu, are really looking forward to seeing it start to take shape very soon.
“The development will breathe new life into the area and it will be the residents who will give it that true sense of community, while benefitting from living in one of the largest low carbon neighbourhoods in the UK.
“The creation of this brilliant new community forms part of our wider vision for Sheffield and links in beautifully with the large number of regeneration projects we already have in progress. Sheffield is a city attracting people to come and live here all the time, projects like Attercliffe Waterside will inspire more to do the same.”
The land at Attercliffe Waterside was originally brought to market in 2019 and billed at the time as ‘one of the most exciting development opportunities in the north of England’. Citu was announced as the preferred developer in 2023.
Spawforths transitions to employee ownership
Spawforths, the Yorkshire-based independent planning, masterplanning and architectural consultancy, has become employee-owned. This strategic move is set to empower its 22 employees, allowing them to share directly in the company’s success and future growth strategy.
Spawforths works on the full range of development projects from one off houses to New Towns and is currently leading over £12 billion worth of development projects through the planning system, including the creation of 40,000 new homes and 25 million square feet of commercial space across the North and the Midlands.
The new ownership model, established through an employee ownership trust (EOT), ensures that each employee becomes a beneficiary of the trust. This model mirrors successful structures used by prominent companies such as John Lewis.
Chairman, Dave Rolinson, said: “This transition marks a new chapter for Spawforths. By becoming an employee-owned company, we are not only investing in our team but also in our future growth. Our employees are at the heart of our success, and this move reinforces our commitment to shared prosperity and inclusive growth.”
Under the EOT, the current directors will continue to manage the company’s operations, supported by a board of trustees that includes three employee representatives. This governance structure ensures that employees have a voice in the strategic direction of the company while maintaining stability and continuity in its operations.
Council Leader invites Prime Minister to Hull to start working together for the city
The Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Mike Ross, has invited the new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to visit Hull to help unlock the city’s full potential.
Councillor Ross has written to the new Government to seek a meeting with the new Prime Minister so that they can discuss how they can work together for the city of Hull.
In the letter, Cllr Ross has set out the challenges Hull is facing and seeks “urgent support” for fair funding.
He has urged the new Government to give Hull City Council, as well as others across the country, more funding so they can make vital improvements for years to come.
Councillor Ross explains the tough financial challenges the Council and people across the city have faced under the previous Governments.
He also makes the case for Hull and says the city has “tremendous talent and a strong ambition to succeed.”
The letter, which addresses issues with Adult Social Care, Devolution and Homelessness, has also been sent to the new Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, along with Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, and the Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.
It will also go to Hull’s three MPs – Dame Diana Johnson, Emma Hardy and Karl Turner.
Cllr Mike Ross said: “Hull has a strong ambition to succeed.
“Our city has been dealt a bad hand by previous Governments but a new Government means a new chance to change that.
“Hull is and always has been a city with massive potential.
“I have always said this council will work with anyone if it is in the interests of the city and I want to work with this new Government to make that potential real for local people.
“I’m inviting Sir Keir Starmer and his team to see our amazing city for himself.
“I want to work with the Prime Minister to deliver for local people who deserve a better deal than the one they have had.
“We are clear that the best is yet to come for Hull and want to work with the Government to make sure this is the case.”
Major North Yorkshire retail and business park hits the market for £10.5m
A modern retail and business park in Guisborough which is home to a wide range of household names and local businesses is for sale and is expected to attract interest from both national and international property investment companies.
Cleveland Gate Retail and Business Park offers almost 40,000 sq ft of retail space and 25,000 sq ft of business space, as well as parking for nearly 200 cars, just a few minutes from Guisborough town centre. The site was developed by Ryedale Estates and is being marketed jointly by commercial property agents, Leeds-based Dacres Commercial and Stokesley-based Jackson & Partners.
The retail park opened in 2017 and tenants now include an M&S Foodhall, B&M, Frank’s Flooring, Domino’s Pizza and Hollyhocks Café, all served by a 186-space car park. To the rear of the retail park there are 11 hybrid and light industrial units with tenants including TNT Fitness, Vet Partners, Guisborough Brewery, Finn’s Bakery and specialist dental practice, Riverdale.
The whole site generates a headline rent of more than £820,000 per year and the selling agents are instructed to seek offers in excess of £10.5million. The site could also be split, with the option to sell the retail park for £7.5million and the industrial estate for £3million.
Hedley Steel, from Dacres Commercial, said: “This is a modern and high-quality investment opportunity in a sought-after and growing commuter town that enjoys buoyant regional occupational and consumer demand, prompting sustained rental growth.
“Tenants include national, regional and local occupiers and other major retailers nearby include the likes of Sainsbury’s, Boots, Aldi, Iceland and Lidl. In addition, the retail park’s VNPR data shows that between 2019 and 2023, vehicle movements increased by 23.26%, with the average number of monthly vehicle movements standing at 51,335 in 2023.
“All this further enhances Cleveland Gate Retail and Business Park’s credentials as a solid investment opportunity, and we’re already generating significant interest from both local and national investors.”
David Jackson, from Jackson & Partners, added: “This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the region’s most successful retail and business destinations situated in this affluent part of North Yorkshire.
“The development has seen continued growth and high levels of consumer demand due in part to Guisborough’s rapid expansion and extensive catchment. We are experiencing strong interest from a wide range of investors and hope to conclude matters in the next few months.”
Mayor Brabin tells builders to brace for housebuilding boom
Mayor Tracy Brabin has vowed to deliver a “new dawn” for housebuilding across West Yorkshire, by working in lock-step with local housing providers and the new government in Westminster.
The West Yorkshire Housing Strategy 2040, the first of its kind for the region, has been unveiled on a visit to Saxton Lane in Leeds, where 204 affordable apartments are being developed by WDH.
The strategy identifies untapped potential for new housing across Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield, where over 38,000 new homes could be built on previously developed land.
For the first time, the plans will bring together the five local authorities of West Yorkshire to deliver across four core missions – boosting housing supply, building affordable homes, improving existing homes, and creating vibrant communities.
The strategy aims to build on the progress made since the devolution of the £90 million Brownfield Housing Fund to the region, which has helped to deliver more affordable homes than at any other time since the global financial crash, including 1,500 in the year 2022-2023.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Our fifteen year housing strategy gives us the long-term, joined-up approach we need to tackle this intolerable housing crisis, ensuring that everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.
“Growing up in a good quality council flat we didn’t have to worry about unaffordable rent, mould on our walls or the looming threat of a no-fault eviction, and no one else should have to either.
“Housing is a basic human right and the foundation for a good and healthy life. By working in lock-step with the new government and our brilliant local housing partners, we will deliver a new dawn for housebuilding across West Yorkshire.”
The launch of the West Yorkshire Housing Strategy follows a speech made earlier in the week from the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, who vowed to “get Britain building again.”
To help deliver 1.5 million new homes by the end of the parliament, the Chancellor and MP for Leeds West and Pudsey has pledged to work closely with Mayors and local leaders, restore housebuilding targets, and reform planning rules whilst bolstering planning teams.
According to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, there are approximately 85,000 people and families on waiting lists for a council home across the region, with house prices reaching six times the average annual wage, as compared to only three times the average annual wage in 2002.
Private renters have also been hit hard by the “double-whammy” of high inflation and poor conditions, with rents in Leeds, Kirklees and Wakefield rising by around 20% since 2018, and two in five privately rented homes failing to meet the government’s definition of a “decent home.”
To address rising fuel poverty, the Combined Authority and its partners have committed £40 million to modernise social homes with solar panels, heat pumps and better insulated walls and windows. The new housing strategy sets out an ambitious vision to create greener and more secure communities, driving down energy bills across West Yorkshire.
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council and Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Place, Regeneration and Housing Committee, said: “Thousands more families are living in safe, secure and affordable homes because of the decisions of our West Yorkshire Mayor in partnership with local councils. We’ve really made the most of the powers and funding devolved to our region so far.
“But now we need to accelerate this work even more. For too long, strict Government rules over where our brownfield housing fund is spent have blocked our plans. This has limited too much of what we’ve been able to achieve to places where land values are already high.
“With the backing of a new Government, and the promise of greater flexibility in how we can make decisions, we can build 38,000 new homes. That is at the heart of delivering a region which everyone can be proud to call home.”
Andy Wallhead, Chief Executive Officer of WDH and Chair of the West Yorkshire Housing Partnership, said: “Housing associations are already leading the way on housebuilding in West Yorkshire, with our partnership members collectively providing a fifth of all homes across the region.
“But, by working with the new Government and continuing our close collaboration with the Mayor, we’re determined to do even more and will keep on building to provide the affordable and sustainable homes needed to unlock West Yorkshire’s true potential.”
Rix Group extends leisure portfolio with acquisition of residential park home maker
Hull family business J.R. Rix & Sons Ltd has acquired a residential park home maker to build on its holiday home and lodge portfolio manufactured by Victory Leisure Homes.
The company has become sole shareholder in Prestige Communities Group Ltd – parent company of well-known residential brand Prestige – for an undisclosed sum.
The move sees Rix Group enter the residential park home sector for the first time, after growing Victory Leisure Homes into one of the UK’s top holiday home and lodge manufacturers. The Prestige portfolio also offers an extended range of premium holiday and leisure homes, growing the Group’s presence and market share.
James Doyle, Managing Director of J.R. Rix & Sons, said the acquisition will bring stability to Prestige Communities Group, which has undergone several changes in ownership over recent years.
Mr Doyle said: “We’re delighted to complete the purchase of Prestige. I feel we are well positioned to support and invest further in the company ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in the park home and leisure space.
“The acquisition extends our product range into the residential park home sector and will enable us to build on the successes achieved by Victory Leisure Homes in the holiday park sector.
“We feel there is a good cultural fit with the people at Prestige which will be fundamental to the business’s future success and we look forward to working with Mitchell Comer and his management team.”
Mitchell Comer, CEO of Northamptonshire-based Prestige, said: “Following the restructuring in February, we have been seeking and discussing a long-term investor/owner proposition that would give Prestige a foundation to build upon, securing the legacy, but equally enabling funding and support for continued growth and innovation.
“J.R. Rix & Sons demonstrated a long-term vision, both for their group of companies, as well as Prestige, and during discussions it was clear we shared common values and aspirations.”
Contentious probate expert appointed as partner at Ramsdens
Liam Brooke has joined Ramsdens Solicitors as a partner to lead its growing will, trust and estate disputes practice.
With a wealth of experience advising on all types of contentious trust and probate matters, Liam joins Ramsdens’ Edgerton office from Rothley Law’s private client practice (previously part of Shoosmiths) where he spent two years, latterly as a principal associate. He has also worked for Clarion and Irwin Mitchell.
Liam has expertise in disputes regarding the validity of wills, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and disputes involving executors and trustees. He also deals with disputes arising within the Court of Protection.
Liam is a Member of ACTAPS (Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists) and is also a member of the Northern Contentious Probate Group.
The firm is continuing to strengthen its five-strong dedicated team which also saw the appointment of Steven Murgatroyd as a senior associate earlier this year. Steven is experienced in both dispute resolution and wills and probate, and has a strong technical legal background when dealing with deputyships, and powers of attorney.
The will, trust and estates dispute team ably support the firm’s 41-strong private wealth and succession and nine-strong Court of Protection teams, both of which are one of the largest teams in Yorkshire.
Nick Armitage, who heads up the firm’s dispute resolution teams, said: “Liam’s arrival is a further welcome boost to our experienced will, trust and estate disputes team which now includes one partner, two senior associates and two legal assistants.
“With an impressive track record of advising in this complex and often sensitive area of the law, Liam will take the helm as we continue to drive our reputation as experts in this specialist field, offering the most senior regional team outside Leeds.”
Liam Brooke said: “Having previously worked with Ramsdens and being well aware of their excellent reputation in the private client sector, I recognised this as a great opportunity to build a strong contentious probate practice which rivals the expertise of many of the large, national firms.
“We are fortunate to have such experienced specialist lawyers here at Ramsdens, and further developing this growing area of law will complement the firm’s already-strong non-contentious probate offering.”
Yorkshire & Humber at foot of regional rankings in June as private sector output returns to contraction
The NatWest Regional Growth Tracker revealed that Yorkshire & Humber was once again the worst performer across the UK at the end of the second quarter as private sector output returned to contraction territory after briefly expanding in May.
The Headline Yorkshire & Humber 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 – fell from 50.5 in May to 47.7 in June, below the crucial 50.0 mark that separates growth from decline and therefore signalling a renewed downturn in private sector activity across the region.
After marginally rising in May, demand for Yorkshire & Humber goods and services returned to contraction at the end of the second quarter, in line with the trend seen in the 12 months to April this year. Survey respondents reported low client confidence and a hesitancy from customers to place orders. The decline in Yorkshire & Humber sales activity contrasted with a modest expansion across the UK as a whole.
Malcolm Buchanan, Chair of the NatWest North Regional Board, said: “Our Regional Growth Tracker once again highlighted weakness in Yorkshire & Humber’s private sector economy, with business activity and new orders shrinking in June after some improvement in May.
“Whether this could be a temporary blip due to the upcoming general election, which did cause growth momentum to slow across the UK more broadly in June, remains to be seen. However, the region has underperformed consistently for a while now, and business confidence slid to a 20-month low during the latest survey period.
“Nevertheless, there are positive takeaways. Employment growth strengthened to a seven-month high, with panel members citing recruitment drives and company expansion. From this, we can certainly deduce a feel-good factor in some parts of the local economy, which could help spur growth in the second half of 2024.”
Performance in relation to UK
Although the Future Activity Index remained well above the neutral 50.0 threshold, therefore signalling optimism on balance among Yorkshire & Humber companies, the level of positive sentiment fell to its lowest since October 2022 and was well below the UK average.
Political uncertainty weighed on confidence, anecdotal evidence showed, although some respondents remained hopeful of a further pick-up in the broader economy.
Job creation was sustained across Yorkshire & Humber in June. In fact, the rate of employment growth improved slightly and was the strongest since last November. Recruitment drives, company expansion, and the filling of vacancies underpinned hiring, said survey respondents.
Yorkshire & Humber was among the top performing parts of the UK in terms of workforce growth in June, ranking fourth out of the 12 monitored UK areas.
Operating costs at Yorkshire & Humber firms continued to rise at a sharp pace during June. Anecdotal evidence indicated that companies incurred greater expenses due to increases in commodity and shipping costs.
That said, the overall rate of inflation was broadly in line with that seen in May, which was the softest for seven months. The local increase in total costs was slightly below that seen for the UK as a whole.
Prices charged for Yorkshire & Humber goods and services increased in June, as has been the case in every month for almost four years. The rate of inflation quickened slightly to its strongest since March, but was the second-weakest seen across all 12 monitored parts of the UK.
Where charges were lifted, survey respondents mentioned the passing on of higher costs to their customers.
Board in charge of £25m Shipley regeneration plan joined by four new members
The board in charge of a £25 million plan to regenerate Shipley has been joined by four new members.
The Shipley Towns Fund Board is made up of volunteer representatives from local businesses as well as charitable and voluntary organisations, with support from Bradford Council which includes managing and delivering projects.
The newly-recruited members will use their skills and knowledge to oversee the Government-funded local projects, including the rejuvenation of Shipley Market as well as the creation of Shipley Sustainable Community Hub and the Shipley Health and Well-being Centre.
The new board members are Lead Mentor of the British Design Fund, Product Designer & Entrepreneur Adam Sutcliffe, Founder of the Strategic Disability Partnership and Shipley resident Alec Porter, Director of Kynd, Co-Chair of South Square and Facilitator at Bradford Death Café Nicola Murray, and the Managing Director of Flight & Cox Financial Solutions Ltd Scot Flight.
Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Transport and Planning Alex Ross-Shaw said: “The Shipley Towns Fund board is successfully delivering some excellent work. These are significant regeneration projects which will shape the Shipley area and have a positive impact on the people who live here for generations to come.”
Chair of the Shipley Towns Fund Board Adam Clerkin said: “We’re already incredibly fortunate to have a very capable group of people who give up their time voluntarily to help us deliver these exciting schemes. We are delighted to welcome the new board members to the team and look forward to driving these incredible projects through to completion together.”
Plans for modern sport and recreational facility in Knottingley to be discussed
An update on the Knottingley Regeneration Programme is set to be discussed by Wakefield Council Cabinet members next week (16 July).
Phase one will see the demolition of the former Kellingley Social Club and existing pavilion, and the building of a new, purpose-built pavilion subject to approval.
The Council is looking at designs for the new, modern pavilion building. It would offer better facilities for the local football club, and other sporting groups that use it, with a bar and function room that will provide the community with a space for events, and gatherings.
There will also be new car parking and landscaping to complement the new facility and wider site.
In September, there will be a further report where Cabinet will be asked to approve the costs to complete phase one.
The majority of people who responded to a public consultation said they thought Knottingley would benefit from a new and modern sport and recreational facility. People also fed back that they supported demolition of the derelict Social Club which is unsafe and impractical to repair.
At their meeting Councillors will also be asked to approve funding for design and infrastructure works to support phase two of the project.
Phase two will look to design and build a new wellbeing hub, with recreational activities and landscaping.
Key stakeholders have fed back on initial designs, and these will be submitted for approval to Cabinet later in the year.
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “We’ve ambitious plans to invest in Knottingley and to deliver fantastic new facilities that residents have asked for. “We’re pleased that thanks to lots of input from residents and businesses we are pushing forward with these plans. Knottingley is a very important part of our district and we want to deliver the best outcomes for the local community.”
Landmark case result: Anglian Water fined for ignoring Environment Agency
Anglian Water Services Ltd has been ordered to pay more than £50,000 for failing to provide records required by the Environment Agency. The order includes a £25,000 fine, £190 victim surcharge and £25,000 in costs.
Sentencing took place today at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court after the water company was convicted on 24 May 2024.
This is the first conviction of its kind by the Environment Agency against a water company and sets a precedent for the regulation of non-compliant companies.
Since launching the investigation into Anglian Water Service Ltd’s compliance, the Environment Agency has served several statutory requirements for records on the company. Anglian Water Services Ltd has been convicted of failing, without reasonable excuse, to respond to one of these notices, served between dates in January 2022 and January 2023.
Anglian Water Services Ltd had entered a not guilty plea to the charge, claiming that they had a reasonable excuse for non-compliance. Having heard the evidence in the case, District Judge Kenneth Sheraton rejected the water company’s claim.
The case against Anglian Water Services Ltd arose out of a wider criminal investigation involving all ten English water companies looking into potential non-compliance with environmental permit conditions at over 2,000 wastewater treatment works.
The Environment Agency hopes that today’s sentence will help the regulator to bring all water companies into compliance and reduce environmental pollution.
Official Reciever plans to give £280m to Thomas Cook creditors
The Official Receiver has announced plans to return £280m to creditors of the Thomas Cook group of companies, the high-street travel chain which went into liquidation in 2019.
Following the collapse of the Thomas Cook group of companies, the Official Receiver has worked across a complex group of liquidations to realise all available assets for the benefit of creditors.
This has included a broad range of assets including the sale of airport slots, hotel investments and high street stores which were owned across the group of companies.
David Chapman, who was appointed by the Court as Official Receiver and Liquidator of the group, said: “I understand that a lot of people lost money following the collapse of Thomas Cook. My team has been working hard to finalise the liquidation, maximising funds which can now be distributed to creditors.
“I would encourage creditors to visit the dedicated Thomas Cook Claims Site to check the position regarding their claim as soon as possible, so we can consider whether they should receive any part of the funds being distributed.“
The Thomas Cook group is made up of 57 different companies in liquidation, not all of which will make payments to creditors and the payments made will be at different rates for each company.
It is expected that eligible creditors will be paid before the end of September 2024.Yorkshire businesses go wheel to wheel in endurance charity karting championship
Motor racing driver Rowan Campbell-Pilling has been uniting Yorkshire businesses on the racetrack to raise cash for charity and compete for a coveted trophy.
Sheffield-based Rowan, a 17-year-old Motorsport UK Academy driver, is a rising star of British motorsport and organised the inter-company karting event at Parkwood Karting in the city.
The two-day event at the outdoor track included teams from a range of businesses including law firms, motor dealerships, engineering businesses and an online retailer.
Gripple, Irwin Mitchell, Cobra Sport, WPA Healthcare, Veezu, H Harrold & Sons and Mattress Online completed the fastest laps and will now compete in the Steel City Cup Final in September.
These teams were joined by Burrows Motor Company, Widd Signs and Monaghans who also competed and contributed to the event and money raised.
Funds raised through the event will be donated to The Children’s Hospital Charity where Rowan is an Ambassador.
Rowan said: “It’s been great to host the first part of our second ever Steel City Cup. It’s been brilliant to bring so many businesses together whilst raising vital funds.
“My family and I know first-hand how important the services at The Children’s Hospital Charity are because I had to use the hospital as a child. Being able to boost the charity’s funds and introduce people to karting is brilliant.”
Rob Gurruchaga, Development Officer from The Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “The event was brilliant and we’re now looking forward to the final in September which will be a hotly contested event.
“Rowan is very supportive of the charity and plays an excellent role as an Ambassador. We’re delighted he’s in our team and the money raised from the event will make a huge difference to the lives of our patients, families and staff.”
Rowan is currently competing in his first Rokit British F4 certified by the FIA Season, driving for the Phinsys by Argenti team. This is seen as the first rung on the ladder towards Formula 1.
He joined the F4 grid following a successful karting career, where he competed in the Daniel Ricciardo Series and IAME X30 in both the junior and senior classes.
The Steel City Cup Final will be held at Parkwood Karting on 12 September. During this, all teams will be welcomed back for a BBQ and networking.
Another step forwards for North Hykeham Relief Road
Lincolnshire county council’s Executive has given officers the green light to pursue the necessary legal orders and land acquisitions for the North Hykeham Relief Road project.
The county council’s Executive voted to progress with publishing the legal orders during their meeting on Tuesday 2 July.
Cllr Richard Davies, Executive Member for Highways, said: “This is another huge milestone for the project that brings us one step closer to making the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road a reality.
“The next step is to publish the legal orders and wait while the consultation process is underway. Once the consultation period’s ended, we’ll have a clearer idea of whether a public inquiry will be needed.
“There’s an enormous about of legal paperwork to get through with a road of this size before we can actually start building, but we’re doing all we can to move things along so we can start works late next year.
“In the meantime, the team will also continue working on preparing a full business case for the DfT.”
Construction of the new relief road is expected to start in late 2025 and to be open by late 2028. The cost of the project is currently estimated to be between £180m and £208m.
The North Hykeham Relief Road project will see a new dual carriageway built, linking the A46 Pennells Roundabout to the newly constructed Lincoln Eastern Bypass, creating a complete ring road around the city.
As part of the project, new roundabouts would be built at South Hykeham Road, Brant Road and Grantham Road. A number of bridges would also be constructed, including at Station Road and over the River Witham.
Eight new recruits for G&H Group
G&H Group, the Leeds-based mechanical, electrical and public health service (MEP) provider, has made eight new appointments to its team following sustained growth.
To further expand its Projects division which delivers independent (MEP) services for schemes typically valued between £50,000 and £1 million, G&H Group has recruited James Hutchinson as head of solar to build its solar photovoltaic (PV) team. Previously operations director for Radius Charge where he was responsible for all project delivery and installation of renewable infrastructure, James has over 20 years’ experience in the electrical engineering sector with 12 years in renewables.
Joining James in G&H Group’s Projects division as mechanical supervisor is 40-year industry veteran, Nick Mundy. G&H Group’s Projects division has extensive experience delivering projects for education facilities such as schools, colleges and multi-academy trusts and Nick will support with work sequence strategy, materials management, and safe methods of working.
G&H Group’s Building Services division has made six new appointments to support the complex, large-scale new build and retrofit schemes in which it specialises. Daniel Gowland joins from JLM M&E as mechanical project manager, leading on projects including Harrogate College, Pudsey Sixth Form and Leeds City Town Hall.
With a career spanning 30 years, most recently at JLM M&E, Darren Hartley joins G&H Group Building Services as electrical estimator for project estimation and delivery. Mohammad Choudhary joins from Waites Mechanical Services as project engineer. In this integral role, Mohammad will be creating programme schedules, forecasting project costs, producing technical submittals, forecasting labour, and managing site labour as well as procuring materials.
Reporting to Building Services (South) operations manager, Paul Cuss, Gearoid McCool, Peter Violet, and Trevor Archer join as senior contracts manager, senior technical services manager, and project manager respectively.
Marc Ambler, group director at G&H Group, said: “With new schemes starting, and an increasing number of enquiries, it’s great to welcome Darren, Mohammad, Daniel, Nick, James, Gearoid, Peter and Trevor to G&H Group. We welcome their skills and expertise and look forward to them further developing their careers.”
More than 3,000 jobs saved as buyer found for Sheffield business
Over 3,000 jobs have been saved after a buyer was found for Sheffield’s IPM Group.
Danielle Shore and Ryan Holdsworth from the Sheffield office of insolvency and business turnaround specialists Leonard Curtis, were appointed joint administrators of the company.
Launched in 2006, Intelligent Protection Management Group is an award-winning multi-service security, facilities management and stadium management organisation, which employs over 200 staff in South Yorkshire along with a workforce of more than 3,000 casual workers throughout the country.
Its clients come from both the public and private sectors and include councils, football clubs, the NHS, high street retailers, the catering and hospitality industry, social housing schemes and the leisure industry.
The joint administrators have confirmed that a buyer has been found for the business and that all jobs have been secured.
Danielle Shore said: “This is a great result for the company and for the region’s economy and we are particularly delighted that jobs have been saved now that the company’s future has been assured.
“By recognising the warning signs and seeking professional advice, IPM safeguarded an extremely successful business and ensured its continued success despite some unexpected challenges.
“We are pleased that such a positive outcome has been reached and wish the new owners every success as they take the business forward.”
The administrators were supported by the legal team at Irwin Mitchell and the purchaser was represented by MD Law.
Community projects to benefit from Yorkshire Water employees’ help
Yorkshire Water has partnered with Bradford-based non-profit organisation Participate Projects, to encourage employees to get involved in community projects.
The partnership will see Yorkshire Water colleagues embarking on a range of volunteering projects from decorating community spaces to building outdoor play areas.
The programme is already under way – Yorkshire Water volunteers have visited Beckfoot Heaton Primary School in Bradford to build a welly shed and New Park Primary School in Harrogate to support indoor and outdoor renovations.
The visit to New Park Primary School comes as work continues on the £19m investment in nearby Killinghall wastewater treatment works to reduce the amount of Phosphorous entering the river Nidd via treated wastewater.
Anne Reed, social value and education advisor at Yorkshire Water, said: “Our colleagues are passionate about helping out in local communities and providing value beyond our water and wastewater services. Investment in our operational sites, such as our project at Killinghall, provides us with an opportunity to go beyond the engineering projects and make a difference to the wider community.
“By partnering with Participate Projects, we’re hoping to increase the frequency of our volunteering events and provide meaningful support to even more organisations and people across Yorkshire.”
Anthony Waddington, CEO at Participate Projects, added: “We are really excited to see Yorkshire Water colleagues’ time and skills make a real impact in the communities where they operate. The passion and enthusiasm we have seen from them in supporting the people and places around them is a great match to the values and mission of Participate.”
Law firm deepens commitment to Yorkshire with acquisition of Leeds solicitors
Yorkshire law firm Ison Harrison has acquired Cohen Cramer Solicitors, a firm with a presence in Leeds and a national clientele.
Ison Harrison says the move underscores its “commitment to growth, excellence, and its unique value of being an employee-owned business.”
Cohen Cramer has roots dating back to 1980 when Howard Cohen & Co was established. In 2009, the business merged with Cramer Richards, forming Cohen Cramer. It specialises in personal injury, regulatory and criminal law, as well as animal related cases, family law, dispute resolution and legal costs.
With a team of four directors and 27 employees, the firm achieved a turnover exceeding £3 million last year.
This acquisition significantly enhances Ison Harrison’s footprint in the region, bringing the total number of staff to over 300 and solidifying its position with 20 offices across Yorkshire.
Jonathan Wearing, Managing Director of Ison Harrison, says: “This acquisition is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional and accessible legal services across Yorkshire.
“By linking up with Cohen Cramer’s specialist lawyers, we are not only expanding our team but also enhancing our ability to serve our clients with a broader and more robust range of legal services.
“Cohen Cramer’s strengths in regulatory and criminal law perfectly complement our existing capabilities, and their focus on military and animal-related injury claims will significantly enhance our personal injury practice. We are stronger and more versatile than ever before.”
Emma Mason, Managing Director of Cohen Cramer, says: “Joining forces with Ison Harrison is an incredible opportunity for us. The firm’s strong reputation and extensive regional presence will enhance our ability to deliver outstanding service to our clients.
“We are proud to become part of an innovative, employee-owned firm that shares our passion for client-centred legal practice. We are a great fit.”
Consultation launched on future opportunities for Keighley
Views are being sought on how up to £20m should be spent in Keighley, as part of a consultation.
Keighley was one of 75 places around the UK selected to share £1.1billion over the next ten years, as part of the Long-Term Plan for Towns scheme, from the Government’s Levelling Up programme.
The award is in addition to the £33.6m previously granted in 2021 through the Towns Fund. The Keighley Town Board has been set up to oversee both streams of funding and will develop a long-term plan for the Keighley and surrounding ‘Brontë Country’ area.
A consultation, both online and in person, is now under way, seeking local people’s views on:
- Improving transport and connections to make travel easier for residents and increase visitor numbers, to boost opportunities for small businesses and create jobs
- Tackling crime and anti-social behaviour
- Enhancing the town centre to make it more attractive and accessible, including re-purposing empty shops for new housing, improving green spaces and street cleaning
Growth momentum continues in financial services
Financial services business volumes grew solidly in the second quarter, building on a strong rebound in Q1, according to the latest CBI Financial Services Survey. Firms expect volumes to increase at an even faster rate over the next three months.
The quarterly survey, conducted between 30 May and 17 June, also showed that optimism increased and headcounts grew for the fifth consecutive quarter. However, profitability fell slightly, and the value of non-performing loans increased for the second consecutive quarter.
Key findings:
- Business volumes grew solidly in the quarter to June (weighted balance of +22%) for the second consecutive quarter (+36% in March). Firms expect volumes to increase at an even quicker rate in the next three months (+53%).
- Optimism increased in the quarter to June, compared with three months ago (+17% from +29% in March).
- Average spreads declined in the quarter to June (-16% from -19% in March) but are expected to increase next quarter (+11%).
- The value of non-performing loans increased again in the quarter to June (+11, unchanged from March), seeing the joint-fastest rise since early 2021. However, they are expected to be unchanged over the next quarter (+1%).
- Profitability fell slightly in the quarter to June (-5% from +37% in March). The decline is set to be short-lived, with FS firms expecting profitability to increase strongly next quarter (+46%).
- Headcount grew in the quarter to June (+18% from +40% in March), but this marked the slowest rise in the five-quarter run of growth seen so far. Firms expect headcount to grow at the same pace next quarter (+18%).
- Firms expect to increase investment in IT in the next 12 months (compared to the last 12). However, capital expenditure on land & buildings and vehicles, plant & machinery is expected to fall considerably.
- The cost of finance was the most commonly cited factor likely to limit investment over the next 12 months, rising to its second-highest share on record (36% from 11% in March).
- The share of firms citing inadequate net returns as a concern fell noticeably from March (22% from 46%), while the proportion citing demand uncertainty also fell sharply (to 16% from 53%).
