Wakefield churches earmarked for business use as firms seek space to grow

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Wakefield churches earmarked for business use as firms seek space to grow

Two former churches in Wakefield are being positioned for business use, reflecting increasing demand for commercial premises in the area.

Plans have been submitted to convert the former Well Church in Wrenthorpe into administrative and storage space for a local refurbishment company. The firm, currently based in Ossett, has outgrown its existing facilities and aims to relocate to the School Lane site to improve efficiency and facilitate future expansion. The company also anticipates the move could support new job creation.

The Well Church site consists of a mix of original and extended structures, including a single-storey stone section with a slate roof and a two-storey brick-built addition. No structural or visual alterations to the building are planned under the current proposal.

Separately, Flanshaw United Reformed Church, which closed in 2023 after its final elder retired, is under offer after being listed for £225,000. The property, dating back to 1866, was marketed by Walker Singleton as having broad potential for reuse or redevelopment.

These developments highlight a growing trend of repurposing underutilised religious buildings to meet commercial demand in West Yorkshire.

SIG grows despite market headwinds, driven by UK and German strength

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SIG grows despite market headwinds, driven by UK and German strength

Building materials supplier SIG reported a 2% increase in like-for-like sales for the first quarter of 2025, reaching £636 million, outperforming wider market trends despite continued construction sector weakness across Europe.

Total revenue fell by 1% compared to the same period last year, largely due to fewer trading days, currency fluctuations, and the impact of branch closures over the past 12 months.

Demand remains well below historical levels in most markets, but the company has observed early signs of volume stabilisation. SIG attributes its relative strength to operational and commercial improvements, with the UK and Germany delivering the strongest results.

While construction demand across the UK and EU remains subdued, SIG’s performance suggests it is gaining market share and positioning itself to benefit from any future recovery.

Private school closure signals business pressure from new VAT rules

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Private school closure signals business pressure from new VAT rules

St George’s Preparatory School in Boston, Lincolnshire, will shut down at the end of the academic year, citing financial strain following the introduction of VAT on private school fees.

The school, rated “outstanding” by Ofsted, is among the first in the independent sector to announce closure directly linked to the government’s new tax policy, which took effect in January. The VAT measure is part of a broader initiative expected to generate £1.8 billion annually by 2029/30, supporting public services, including state education.

In addition to the VAT burden, the school’s operating costs have risen due to increases in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage. The combined financial pressure has led to daily losses that the school describes as unsustainable.

Falling enrollment has also contributed, as fewer families opt for fee-paying education due to the higher cost base.

The decision highlights growing concern within the independent education sector over the impact of fiscal policy changes on private institutions’ viability. Support measures are being arranged for students transitioning to new schools and for staff facing redundancy.

The policy is currently under legal challenge, with critics arguing it may breach human rights and be discriminatory. The government maintains that the primary aim is revenue generation for public investment.

OnPath wind farms highlight scalable regional impact for renewable energy stakeholders

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OnPath wind farms highlight scalable regional impact for renewable energy stakeholders

OnPath Energy’s four onshore wind farms in Yorkshire generated more than 96,500 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity in 2024, enough to meet the annual power demands of around 33,200 homes.

The sites Penny Hill near Sheffield, Hook Moor east of Leeds, Marr west of Doncaster, and Hazlehead near Barnsley also helped reduce grid-related carbon emissions, displacing the equivalent output of nearly 13,400 petrol vehicles.

In addition to energy generation, the wind farms contributed over £61,000 to local community benefit funds, aimed at supporting grassroots projects and initiatives near the sites.

Kirklees pushes ahead with Dewsbury land sales to bolster budget

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Kirklees pushes ahead with Dewsbury land sales to bolster budget

Kirklees Council is advancing its asset disposal programme with a new round of auctions that includes three sites in the Dewsbury area. The move is part of ongoing efforts to address financial pressures following a £47 million budget deficit in 2023.

The upcoming auctions feature land and buildings formerly used for community and commercial purposes in Ravensthorpe and Dewsbury town centre. These are among six properties across Kirklees set to go under the hammer in April and May. Guide prices suggest the council expects to raise at least £25,000 to £100,000 per site, depending on size and location.

This latest phase continues a wider sell-off that has already included more than 50 assets, ranging from museums and libraries to car parks and business centres. Sales so far have brought in substantial returns, with former council-owned sites such as the Red House Museum and Fartown Village Hall achieving six-figure sums.

All revenue from the sales is being reinvested into the council’s capital plan, which funds local infrastructure and economic development. The programme reflects a shift by local authorities toward asset realisation as a means of maintaining fiscal stability in the face of ongoing budget constraints.

Yorkshire Building Society taps Infosys for long-term digital overhaul

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Yorkshire Building Society taps Infosys for long-term digital overhaul

Yorkshire Building Society (YBS) has partnered with Infosys to modernise its digital infrastructure and support its 2030 strategic objectives. The collaboration will focus on enhancing digital services across the mutual’s mortgage, commercial, and savings offerings, with a mobile-first and data-driven approach.

Infosys will apply its expertise in financial services and next-generation technologies, including cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics, to streamline operations, improve scalability, and boost efficiency. The initiative forms part of YBS’s broader effort to improve customer and employee experiences through technology-enabled services.

This partnership signals a continued push among UK financial institutions to modernise legacy systems and deliver faster, more secure services in line with evolving member expectations.

Goldthorpe logistics company grows with grant

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Goldthorpe logistics company grows with grant
Expansion works have completed at a logistics firm’s Goldthorpe base. Mallinson Properties has added two major extensions to the premises of its logistics arm, KMS Transport, thanks to a grant from the Goldthorpe Towns Commercial Investment Fund. The investment has increased warehouse capacity at the site on Goldthorpe Industrial Estate and helped to create more than 20 jobs. The £1.2 million grant was secured with support from Barnsley Council’s business development arm, Enterprising Barnsley. It’s part of the broader £23.1 million Goldthorpe Town Deal, which is revitalising Goldthorpe, Bolton upon Dearne and Thurnscoe with funding from the UK Government’s Towns Fund. This investment aims to unlock major employment growth in the Dearne Valley area by supporting new and existing businesses to create well-paid jobs and attract new investment. Cllr Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “Our investment in supporting this expansion is already paying off in terms of jobs created and the growth of the Dearne’s economy. “This is more evidence that Barnsley is a great place for businesses to invest and add to an economy that benefits everyone. “We will continue to do whatever we can to help businesses and developers bring forward projects creating new employment opportunities.” Stephen Mallinson, managing director of Mallinson Properties, said: “We are delighted with the completion of our expansion project, which has been made possible by the Goldthorpe Towns Commercial Investment Fund. “Not only has this allowed us to meet the growing demand for our services, but it has also benefitted the local economy and community by creating new job opportunities.”

Architects appointed to lead Sheffield Town Hall restoration

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Architects appointed to lead Sheffield Town Hall restoration
The architect leading on the project to restore, refurbish and secure the long-term sustainability of Sheffield Town Hall has been appointed. Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios was chosen following a competitive selection process and will lead the work to breathe new life into the building that first opened its doors in 1897. Since then, the Town Hall has hosted some of the most important events in the city’s history, from council meetings and civic events, to sporting celebrations and marriages. Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios are known for their work in sustainable design and social design with their projects including the transformation of the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings, Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre along with Bath Abbey. The team has also worked on Sheffield’s Heart of the City 2 project, including the Grade II* Listed Leah’s Yard. Cllr Tom Hunt, leader of Sheffield City Council and chair of strategy and resources policy committee, said: “Our iconic and historic Town Hall is at the heart of Sheffield’s democracy and public life. From weddings to citizenship ceremonies, council meetings and elections, this special building has a unique place in the lives of Sheffield residents. “I’m delighted that our work to restore and refurbish the Town Hall is moving forward with the appointment of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios as project architects. Through this work we will breathe new life into the Town Hall so that the building can continue to serve everyone in our city and be a modern, accessible workplace.” Geoff Rich, partner and director of heritage and creative reuse at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said: “We are thrilled to be selected to lead the design team for the renewal and refurbishment of Sheffield Town Hall. “The project represents an exciting opportunity to complement the building’s unique heritage with inclusive and sustainable design, and to ensure the Town Hall meets the future needs of Sheffield’s communities. “Our practice and project team have many strong links with Sheffield, and we feel hugely honoured to be invited to collaborate with the City Council and RLB on this transformative project.”

My Pension Expert secures £25m refinancing to support expansion

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My Pension Expert secures £25m refinancing to support expansion

My Pension Expert, a UK-based at-retirement advisory firm, has secured a £25 million refinancing deal through digital lender OakNorth. The agreement is set to aid the company’s expansion, particularly through acquisitions, following a strong trading performance.

The funding will enable My Pension Expert to settle its previous debt with Beechbrook and provide additional capital for future mergers and acquisitions. The firm, which offers independent pension advice through remote consultations, is backed by Palatine Private Equity, which invested in the business in 2022.

Acquisitions are central to the company’s growth strategy, as demonstrated by its recent purchase of adviser Tenet&You in May 2024. The acquisition supports My Pension Expert’s goal to increase its market presence and value through strategic partnerships.

The refinancing deal reflects the company’s ongoing organic growth, and future acquisitions are expected to build on its success. The firm’s leadership is optimistic about its ability to continue expanding rapidly and innovating within the sector.

Major expansion of York business park completes

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Major expansion of York business park completes
A £3.3 million expansion of a long-established business park close to York’s Outer Ring Road has completed with the construction of three new industrial units. The development at Northminster Business Park has seen three former agricultural buildings transformed into new and detached industrial and warehouse units, which range in size from 6,032 sq ft to 8,093 sq ft, in a self-contained area of the site known as Cropton Court. The buildings are available to buy or let and are being jointly marketed by property consultancy practices GV&Co and PPH Commercial. One unit has been sold, with another unit currently under offer. They have been built by local contractor, Elvington Park Building Services with York’s LHL Group project managing construction. Northminster Business Park is already home to more than 50 businesses, with approximately 1,000 employees. George Burgess, managing director at Northminster Properties, which owns the site, said: “We’ve specifically designed these buildings to appeal to ambitious businesses that require high specification and quality space, along with exceptional sustainability credentials, in a secure environment. “This all makes Cropton Court another exciting development at Northminster Business Park and we’re looking forward to welcoming more businesses into our thriving community.”

UK project aims to cut offshore wind farm maintenance costs with autonomous robotics

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UK project aims to cut offshore wind farm maintenance costs with autonomous robotics

A new initiative funded by Innovate UK is working to revolutionise offshore wind farm maintenance with autonomous robotic systems. Sheffield-based robotics company BOW has teamed up with ORE Catapult and ACUA Ocean in the OSIRIS project, which aims to combine drones and subsea robots to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve safety in offshore renewable energy.

Currently, maintenance operations account for around 25% of the lifetime costs of offshore wind farms. Traditional methods rely heavily on human intervention, which is costly, time-consuming, and exposes workers to safety risks. The OSIRIS project seeks to address these challenges by deploying a fully autonomous inspection system that will be scalable and cost-effective.

BOW’s role in the project is focused on enhancing simulation and testing capabilities. The company’s software development kit (SDK) will integrate with ORE Catapult’s Synthetic Test and Unified Demonstration System (STUDS), allowing for more efficient testing of robotic systems in various environmental conditions before they are deployed in real-world offshore settings.

The project will also see ACUA Ocean’s hydrogen-powered unmanned surface vessel (H-USV) deployed as the central hub for managing and coordinating aerial and subsea robots. The combination of these robotic systems aims to reduce reliance on crewed vessels, cutting emissions and improving operational efficiency.

The initiative is part of the UK’s broader efforts to increase offshore wind capacity, with the government aiming to quadruple its offshore wind capacity by 2030. By integrating robotics into offshore wind farm operations, the project is not only set to reduce costs but also accelerate the transition to a Net Zero energy sector.

Expected to be fully operational by 2027, the OSIRIS project could set the stage for broader applications of autonomous robotics across the marine industry.

Yorkshire business confidence falls in April

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Yorkshire business confidence falls in April
Business confidence in Yorkshire fell 18 points during April to 34%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds. Companies in Yorkshire reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down eight points to 45%, and lower confidence in the economy – down 27 points to 23%. Taken together, this gives a headline confidence reading of 34% (vs. 52% in March). Looking ahead to the next six months, Yorkshire businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (43%), introducing new technology (36%) and evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products and services (33%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall, UK business confidence fell ten points in April to 39%. Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects dropped seven points to 50%, while their confidence in the wider economy fell 13 points to 28%. The North East was the most confident UK nation or region in April (59%), followed by the West Midlands (53%) and the North West (52%). Sector insights Confidence fell across the four broad sectors. Manufacturing confidence remained broadly unchanged from last month, falling by one point to 38%, while the construction sector saw the largest decrease in business confidence this month, declining 22 points to 26%. Retail confidence also fell by 13 points down to 45% and the service industry fell seven points to 40%, both now at three-month lows. Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds, said: “Despite an overall dip in the region’s business confidence this month, it’s encouraging to see that firms are still setting out plans to drive further growth, including investing in their own teams and introducing new technology. “We’ll continue to work with local businesses through our on-the-ground teams to support their ambitions, providing resources, insight and funding to help them succeed.”

Network Rail appoints Henry Boot Construction to deliver low-carbon Maintenance Delivery Unit in North Lincolnshire

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Network Rail appoints Henry Boot Construction to deliver low-carbon Maintenance Delivery Unit in North Lincolnshire
Henry Boot Construction has been appointed to build a new sustainable Maintenance Delivery Unit (MDU) for Network Rail in Barnetby, North Lincolnshire. Located adjacent to Barnetby Station, the new MDU will comprise a two-storey 9,500 sq ft main building – featuring welfare facilities, an office, and a stores – alongside associated services infrastructure, a service yard, staff and visitor car park, additional storage facilities, and reconfigured roads. The main building will have a timber aesthetic and greatly enhance facilities for workers with modern offices, meeting rooms, a canteen and changing facilities. As part of the upgrade, the new space will benefit from reduced embodied carbon and improved thermal performance. An optimised building layout will maximise natural daylight and remove the need for uneconomic storage heaters. Additional sustainability measures such as EV chargers, air-source heat pumps, triple-glazed windows, and rooftop solar PV panels will also be installed on the site, supporting Network Rail’s long-term environmental commitments. The sustainability enhancements have been funded through Network Rail’s Green Bank. Lee Powell, managing director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be working with Network Rail on this forward-thinking development – creating a space that not only meets their long-term vision but enhances the experience for its users. “From the outset, we identified and delivered several sustainability measures designed to go beyond baseline requirements. These initiatives will significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce the project’s overall carbon footprint – positioning the site as a leading example of sustainable construction and human-centred design within their MDU portfolio. “For Henry Boot Construction, it also aligns with our plans to expand our footprint beyond Yorkshire, delivering quality construction projects across Lincolnshire, the Humber, East Midlands, Teesside and the surrounding areas.” Chris Round, senior portfolio manager MDU upgrade portfolio, NR Eastern routes capital programmes, added: “We are delighted to be working with Henry Boot Construction on the new Barnetby Maintenance Delivery Unit. Their expertise, commitment to sustainability, and collaborative approach perfectly aligns with our goals. “We’re confident that together, we will deliver outstanding results, and we look forward to a successful partnership.” Henry Boot Construction is the main contractor on the project, whilst built environment consultant Ridge is leading on the structural and architectural design. The project, which was procured through the Crown Commercial Service Construction Works and Associated Services (CWAS) framework, is now underway and expected to complete by early 2026.

Yorkshire mid-sized firms look overseas despite trade and skills pressures

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Yorkshire mid-sized firms look overseas despite trade and skills pressures

Nearly one in five mid-sized businesses in Yorkshire plan to expand or boost exports in the next year, according to new research from BDO. The report reveals a clear international focus, even amid uncertain trading conditions and operational challenges.

The survey of 500 mid-sized UK firms found that 18% of Yorkshire businesses are prioritising international growth. Target markets include South America, Australia, and the EU, each cited by 44% of those eyeing exports. Africa also attracted attention from 35% of respondents.

However, growth ambitions are running up against several barriers. Around 24% of firms in the region report shortages in export and supply chain skills, while 12% are seeing weaker demand, likely linked to inflationary pressures and squeezed budgets among both business clients and consumers.

Despite these issues, sentiment remains broadly positive. The vast majority (94%) of Yorkshire mid-sized businesses believe the UK Government’s upcoming Small Business Strategy will help them. A quarter are calling for specific reforms to simplify customs processes and expand support through channels such as UK Export Finance.

The findings reflect a continued appetite among regional firms to scale up internationally, with many looking to government policy and local authority partnerships to help navigate a complex global trade environment.

Yorkshire launches summit to drive ESG action in the events industry

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Yorkshire launches summit to drive ESG action in the events industry

The Yorkshire Events Sustainability Summit (YESS) will debut on 16 June at Horizon Leeds, targeting professionals across the events industry seeking to improve their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact.

Designed for venues, suppliers, agencies, and planners, the B2B-focused summit will feature panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions with an emphasis on practical tools and peer-led learning. Topics will include carbon reduction, inclusive event design, mental health considerations, neurodiversity, and using technology to track and improve sustainability metrics.

A notable feature of the summit will be the release of the second edition of the Temperature Check Report, which will expand insights on sustainability trends across the UK and Europe. The event will also host Green Action Labs, covering sustainable catering practices, alternative approaches to carbon offsetting, and strategies to cut waste through digital innovation.

Backed by organisations including Conference Leeds, Visit Hull & East Yorkshire, Make It York, and several local councils, YESS is positioning Yorkshire as a national hub for sustainable event practices. The event is produced by Your First, with support from Horizon Leeds, Production Light & Sound, and Soror Pro Consulting.

YESS is expected to become an annual fixture, aiming to move past ESG rhetoric and encourage collaboration across the sector.

ABF considers closure of Vivergo bioethanol plant as profits fall

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ABF considers closure of Vivergo bioethanol plant as profits fall

Associated British Foods (ABF) is warning that its Vivergo bioethanol plant in East Yorkshire may be mothballed or closed, putting around 150 jobs at risk. The move follows sustained losses and production cuts caused by falling bioethanol prices.

The Vivergo facility, located in Saltend near Hull, converts UK-grown wheat into bioethanol fuel and animal feed. It was launched in 2007 but now faces operational uncertainty amid concerns over how UK biofuel regulations are being applied.

ABF is currently in discussions with the UK Government, seeking regulatory support to maintain commercial viability at the site. However, the company has indicated there is no guarantee of a resolution and may proceed with closure if market conditions fail to improve.

The situation coincides with a broader earnings decline at ABF. Pre-tax profits fell by 21% to £692 million in the 24 weeks to March 1, with revenues down 2% to £9.5 billion. Its sugar division was notably weak during the period.

North Yorkshire towns to receive strategic investment planning boost

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North Yorkshire towns to receive strategic investment planning boost

A £1.2 million funding package has been approved to develop tailored investment plans for 32 towns and service centres across North Yorkshire. The initiative, funded by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and delivered by North Yorkshire Council, aims to guide future regeneration efforts and ensure a consistent, evidence-based approach to development across the region.

The towns selected for the programme represent over 60% of the county’s population. The planning work will focus on key areas such as revitalising high streets, expanding local workspace options, improving transport links, enhancing cultural and heritage assets, and addressing health disparities.

The programme will run over three years starting in May and will include input from local businesses, councils and community groups to shape investment priorities for each location. The intent is to position the towns for future public and private sector investment and ensure economic growth is aligned with the region’s specific challenges and opportunities.

The 32 towns and centres identified are: Bedale, Bentham, Boroughbridge, Catterick Garrison and Colburn, Easingwold, Eastfield and Cayton, Filey, Grassington and Threshfield, Harrogate, Hawes, Helmsley, Ingleton, Kirkbymoorside, Knaresborough, Leyburn, Malton and Norton, Masham, Northallerton, Pateley Bridge, Pickering, Richmond, Ripon, Scarborough, Selby, Settle, Sherburn-in-Elmet, Skipton, South Craven, Stokesley, Tadcaster, Thirsk and Whitby.

The grant will be formally considered by North Yorkshire Council’s executive next week.

Skipton pharmacy sold to local growing group

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Skipton pharmacy sold to local growing group
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Carleton-in-Craven Pharmacy near Skipton, North Yorkshire. Located in a self-contained unit in the village of Carleton-in-Craven, the community pharmacy dispenses almost 15,000 items per month. Alongside two consultation rooms, it boasts a range of modern tech, including deliveries via three self-charging hybrid vehicles which make up over half of the business, and a BD Rowa Vmax dispensing robot. The pharmacy has been owned and operated by its founder, Jonathan Taylor, for the last 12.5 years. He recently decided to sell the business in order to retire. Following a confidential sales process with Jon Booth at Christie & Co, the pharmacy has been purchased by Zakar Hayat and Mubashir Ahmed of Mpharm Holdings Limited which owns two other pharmacies – one in Sheffield and one in Burnley. Jonathan Taylor, former owner of Carleton-in-Craven Pharmacy, said: “After starting my pharmacy from scratch over 12.5 years ago, it was an incredibly tough decision to sell but I believe we have found the right buyer to hand the pharmacy over to. I wish Zakar and Mubashir all the best for the future.” Zakar Hayat, director at Mpharm Holdings Limited, said: “We feel like now is the right time to take on a new challenge – a modern, thriving and busy pharmacy set in the heart of the scenic village of Carleton. “The previous owner, Jonathan, has built this wonderful project and we aim to further expand the reputation and array of services to ensure Carleton-in-Craven remains the hub of North Yorkshire for all healthcare needs.” Jon Booth, director – pharmacy at Christie & Co, said: “Carleton-in-Craven Pharmacy consistently dispenses almost 15,000 items each month, with almost a third of these being MDS patients delivered via a fleet of self-charging hybrid vehicles across the region. “The opportunity for the new owners is to grow the provision of additional services across the patient base, and it is pleasing that the new owners have a vision to move this successful business forward. I look forward to seeing how that progresses and wish them the greatest of success.” Carleton-in-Craven Pharmacy was sold for an undisclosed price.

Clarion grows completions and turnover but warns of £20m building safety hit

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Clarion grows completions and turnover but warns of £20m building safety hit

Clarion Housing Group increased its home completions by 12% over the past year, delivering 1,727 homes compared with 1,538 the previous year. However, it fell short of its revised target of 1,828 completions for 2024/25.

The group’s future development pipeline now stands at 20,173 homes, up slightly from 19,694 a year earlier. Clarion, which manages around 125,000 homes, had previously scaled back its ambitions amid cost pressures, lowering its target from 2,161 to 1,828 completions for the year. Despite this moderation, it maintains a longer-term goal of building 3,000 homes annually.

Spending on new homes dropped from £501m to £439m, mainly due to delays starting larger projects. Investment in existing properties also declined slightly, from £129m to £123m.

Turnover rose 9%, reaching £1.1bn, while the operating surplus, excluding one-off items, grew from £171m to £195m. Clarion attributed the revenue increase partly to the return of inflation-linked rent rises, following the lifting of the previous year’s 7% cap.

The group also cited early benefits from its Connect transformation programme, aimed at tightening cost control and enhancing customer service. However, Clarion flagged a forthcoming £20m building safety provision in its final accounts, which will weigh on its overall surplus. It is seeking to recover some of these costs from third parties. Audited financial statements are expected to be published this summer.

Works starts on site at Shepley residential development

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Works starts on site at Shepley residential development
Work has now started on site at Vivly Living’s residential development at Shepley, near Huddersfield. 52 new homes are now being built at Knowle Grange, which forms Phase 2 at Vivly’s development in the village. Phase 1, comprising 31 homes, has completely sold out. Oliver Bottomley, associate director – land and development at Vivly Living, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve now started on site at Shepley Phase 2. This means we are now building fantastic range of new and much-needed homes to the community. These homes will be energy-efficient and offer additional garden space, providing comfortable and sustainable living for our customers. “I’d like to say a personal thank you to Coun John Taylor, the Shepley ward member and deputy leader of the Conservatives on Kirklees Council, who has helped to ensure that we can build much-needed affordable housing for Shepley and allowed us to introduce the First Home Scheme, helping first-time buyers get a foot on the property ladder.” Coun Taylor explained: “I’m really pleased to see this second phase of the development getting underway. The first phase proved popular and in both phases I am pleased to see properties for first-time buyers. It is important that the younger generations get the same opportunities to get their foot on the housing ladder as I did. “Shepley is a wonderful and active village and a great place to start and bring up your family. This plan includes some two-bed houses under the First Homes scheme which will be ideal for young people wanting to buy their first home. Being able to buy a home in the village you grew up in is an aspiration for many young people locally. “As a Shepley resident, I am delighted to see such quality houses, with attractive stone, being built in our village. I have supported this sensitive development, which is perfectly in tune with the character and ambience of the rest of Shepley, since the early planning stages and it is very satisfying to see the original vision become reality and be so successful.”
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