“In assessing this permit variation, we have completed a detailed and rigorous assessment of Rathlin Energy’s application to ensure the operating techniques and control measures at the proposed facility comply with the legal requirements of the Environmental Permitting Regulations – which are in place to protect people and the environment.”
Rathlin Energy has operated its exploratory oil and gas drill site at West Newton A in East Riding since 2013 under the conditions of an environmental permit. It wanted to vary that permit to allow for the creation of six additional wells and sidetracks, the relocation of oil storage facilities and the installation of gas engines that will produce electricity for export to the National Grid. The company has already secured planning approval for the proposed activity. It is required to have both planning and environmental permitting approved before operations can commence.Rathlin gets permission for further oil and gas exploration in the East Riding
The Environment Agency has issued a permit variation to Rathlin Energy (UK) Limited to drill additional oil and gas wells and carry out commercial production at West Newton A well site in East Riding of Yorkshire.
The latest consultation on the draft permit in June follows an initial consultation on the application which took place in December 2021. After reviewing all the information submitted in the application and considering all comments from the public and evidence, the Environment Agency has granted a variation to the environmental permit.
Kathryn Richardson, Area Environment Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “The Environment Agency is satisfied that the appropriate measures are in place for oil and gas extraction without causing harm to the environment or human health and, after exploring the issues and concerns that have been raised, it cannot find any reason to refuse the application.
“Before we finalised our decision, we reviewed and considered all comments received. The views of the local community on this site are hugely important, and we thank everyone for their contributions through the consultation.
Firms to donate £135,000 after Bradford pollution incidents
A housing construction company and its contracted engineers will donate a total of £135,000 to the Aire Rivers Trust after polluting Pitty Beck multiple times while building a new housing estate near Bradford.
Keepmoat Homes Ltd, specialising in building residential housing and which owns the site at Heron’s Reach near Bradford, will donate £100,000, while Applebridge Construction Limited, contracted by Keepmoat Homes for the first phase of the development, will donate £35,000.
An investigation by the Environment Agency found that Pitty Beck was polluted a number of times between October 2016 and November 2018 while construction was underway.
The companies submitted Enforcement Undertakings to the Environment Agency, which have now been accepted.
An Enforcement Undertaking is a voluntary offer made by companies and individuals to make amends for their offending, and usually includes a donation to an environmental charity to carry out improvements in the local area.
On 13 October 2016 Keepmoat Homes reported pollution from its site, and an Environment Agency officer confirmed that silty water was running from the site and into the beck. The same happened on numerous occasions over subsequent months. The company did not have an environmental permit to allow for treated water to be discharged into the beck.
As part of the requirements of the Enforcement Undertaking, Keepmoat Homes revised its surface water management plan for the site, constructed urban drainage ponds, purchased a siltbuster and gulley bags to remove sediment from the water leaving site and improved its inspection and monitoring regime.
Applebridge Construction employed a full time health and safety manager, reviewed and updated its environmental management system and delivered bespoke training to staff.
Environment Agency Area Environment Manager Ben Hocking said: “Housing construction companies – like all companies carrying out any major development work – have a responsibility to ensure their work does not impact on the environment and we will take action when pollution occurs.
“While we will always take forward prosecutions in appropriate cases, Enforcement Undertakings are an effective enforcement tool to allow companies to put things right and contribute to environmental improvements. They allow polluters to restore the harm caused to the environment and prevent repeat incidents by improving their training and procedures.”
Dewsbury furniture firm has £2.5m funding package guaranteed by export credit agency
UK government’s export credit agency has issued a guarantee allowing Dewsbury furniture firm Jay-Be to access a £2.5m funding package from Santander UK, which will allow it to boost sales of UK-made products to more than a dozen overseas markets including USA, Canada and the UAE.
Already a supplier to high street names like John Lewis, Bensons for Beds and Next, Jay-Be began exporting in 2012 and now serves customers in more than 15 countries. With this foothold, it will now be able to use UKEF support to ramp up its international sales and bring a Yorkshire export to more people than ever.
Based in Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, Jay-Be designs and makes all of its products in the UK. Further expansion overseas will help to support jobs within the UK manufacturing sector.
The newly announced UK government guarantee means that Jay-Be can continue its export growth by extending its next-day delivery service to overseas regions where it operates. The extra £2.5m will allow it to invest in overseas facilities where it can keep local stocks, making it possible for the Dewsbury firm to deliver to customers all over the world within a single day.
This is the latest instance of UKEF helping small and medium-sized enterprises across the country access trade funding from the private sector. Four in every five companies which the export credit agency supported in the last year were small-to-medium-sized companies and based outside London.
This deal is also a step forwards for sustainable UK manufacturing, which will help this country’s innovative exports reach a wider international audience than ever. Jay-Be uses materials like sustainably sourced wood and recycled plastic. In 2023, it won the British Furniture Manufacturers ‘Future of Furniture Excellence in Sustainability Award’.
Roger Durrans, CEO of Jay-Be, said: “We are extremely appreciative of Santander UK and UK Export Finance for this support. Our journey into international markets over the past few years has presented its share of challenges, but achieving the export of our beds and mattresses overseas is an accomplishment of which we are very proud.
“Now that we have successfully established a presence in multiple countries, this export loan facility is pivotal. It will enable us to maintain stock in each export market, enhancing our ability to provide an improved local service, which will significantly accelerate our global expansion strategy and ultimately contribute to creating more employment opportunities in our area.”
New £5.5m training centre welcomes first young engineers
A new £5.5m training centre will launch the engineering careers of more than 60 young learners now it is open for business.
The new arrivals at the building at Pioneer Business Park in Stallingborough are among 250 taking up courses at three sites owned and operated by Humberside Engineering and Training Association (HETA).
The new centre is purpose-built and provides facilities for electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and fabrication and welding, with an IT suite, classrooms and meeting rooms.
It sits at the heart of North East Lincolnshire Council’s £42m South Humber Industrial Investment Programme (SHIIP) area, which is being promoted as a major industrial development opportunity.
Iain Elliott, HETA’s Chief Executive, said: “This is the culmination of about nine years of thought, discussion and planning – and more than a few sleepless nights. We couldn’t have picked a worse time to build it. We exited Covid, the war started in Ukraine, material costs were soaring and supply of materials and labour were an issue. But we were only two weeks late and we were on budget.”
The total investment is £5.5m, broken down into a build cost of about £4.2m with land purchase, fees and VAT making up the rest.
Iain added: “It’s a £5.5m investment in the future of engineering training in North East Lincolnshire and beyond. It’s for those people who are coming out of school and want to take engineering as a career and for employers who need that skilled labour coming through. We know young people are now seeing apprenticeships and engineering and other technical trades as a viable alternative to university.”
New Sheffield BTR development fully let
Iron Yard, Sheffield’s latest Build-to-Rent (BTR) offering, is 100% let just 14 weeks after it was launched to the public.
More than 30% of the 95 one and two-bedroom boutique apartments were let to tenants on the first day of the launch, and a recent open day attracted more than 100 potential tenants, demonstrating the strong demand for high quality BTR living in the city.
Situated in the heart of the city centre, Iron Yard features a gym, concierge service, residents’ lounge, co-working space and communal garden, as well as extensive private parking with EV chargers available.
Oblix Living CEO Rishi Passi said: “Iron Yard was designed to meet the needs of Sheffield’s rising community of young professionals. Everything from the communal amenity spaces to the on-site team and of course the design and finish of the apartments themselves.
“I’m delighted that the development is 100% let in such a short space of time. The demand has been so strong and the response overwhelmingly positive. It’s a real testament to the city and to the partnership with Centrick that Iron Yard has attracted such a diverse range of residents so quickly.”
Residential property management specialist Centrick has been appointed to manage Iron Yard, providing its BTR services, through its new VICI platform.
VICI director Clare Johnson said: “Iron Yard is a fantastic development and we are looking forward to working alongside Oblix Living to deliver outstanding consulting and operational BTR services, which we have continued to grow over many years of experience and expertise in this key growth sector.
“We are going to work together with tenants to create a thriving, sustainable community within this fabulous new development and are already planning the next unmissable community events.”
Work starts on mixed use refurbishment project in Wakefield
Main construction contractor, Priestley Construction, has started work on a £2.5 million mixed use refurbishment project on Marygate in the heart of Wakefield city centre.
The design and build project will see Marygate House, which was originally built as an office building in the 1970s, transformed into 26 apartments over three floors.
In addition, the existing ground-floor retail units will be upgraded with new shop fronts and canopies, to create an impressive and rejuvenated streetscape, on behalf of developer, IP Marygate House.
The development will offer a selection of smart studio apartments, as well as one and two bedroom homes.
The scheme has been designed by Leeds-based PDG Architects and Bingley-based Holdgate Consulting Engineers is providing structural engineering services.
Nathan Priestley, CEO of the Priestley Group, said: “As a Yorkshire-based business, we continue to see the huge potential in the region’s smaller towns and cities, such as Wakefield, which is a city on the up, driven by a council that is committed to bringing its ambitious regeneration plans to life.
“We are thrilled to start work giving Marygate House a new lease of life, as well as significantly enhancing the local street scene in a sought-after part of the city centre, within the main retail centre and close to the historic Civic Quarter.
“Our experience in delivering high quality residential developments in key city centre locations has enabled us to create a vision for a scheme that will be a fantastic place to live, as well as being a valuable asset for both Marygate and Wakefield as a whole.”
Yorkshire business confidence dips but remains upbeat
Business confidence in Yorkshire fell six points during August to 32%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Companies in Yorkshire reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down four points at 32%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down seven points to 32%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 32%.
Yorkshire businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as investing in sustainability (35%), investing in their teams (32%) and introducing new technology (25%)
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. A net balance of 21% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, the same reading as last month.
Overall UK business confidence increased to its highest level since February last year, jumping 10 points to 41% in August. All 11 regions and nations reported a positive business confidence reading in August, with nine regions and nations reporting a higher confidence reading month-on-month.
Optimism in the UK economy also increased in August by 16 points to 37%, and the number of businesses expecting an increase in their trading prospects rose by three points to 46%.
Businesses in London reported the highest levels of business confidence at 52% (up 20 points month-on-month), its strongest reading in 14 months. Firms in the South East reported the second highest reading at 47% (up 17 points month-on-month), followed by those in the South West at 46% (up 12 points month on month).
The construction, retail and service sectors all saw a rise in business confidence in August. Services gained 12 points to reach a 22-month high of 42%, while retail firms were up nine points to 44%, an 18-month high. Construction firms’ confidence also increased by 11 points to a four-month high of 42%. In contrast, manufacturing confidence fell for a second consecutive month with a 4-point decline to 30%, taking it to the lowest level since April 2023.
Steve Harris, regional director for Yorkshire at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Despite a small dip in confidence this month, it is encouraging to see that businesses remain resilient in their efforts to grow. It’s especially positive that sustainability is a big priority as this is not only critical to support the transition to Net Zero but we also know it can present significant financial opportunities for businesses.
“Firms looking to invest in improving their sustainability should take advantage of the discounted lending available for these projects and seek support where they need it to identify new avenues for green growth. As always, we’ll remain on hand to provide businesses with practical tools and support as they achieve their ambitions.”
Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “The bounce in economic optimism this month is the standout point. Our analysis shows that businesses felt relief that interest rates may be reaching their peak, alongside hopes that measures to tackle inflation are having an impact.
“With trading prospects remaining stable, and hiring and wage intentions also rising, the macro environment for small businesses and those outside the manufacturing sector is more upbeat.
“From the data, large firms and manufacturers are experiencing some degree of caution, which is likely to reflect the wider global economic environment and, for manufacturing, the rotation of spending towards services.”
Biomass business snapped up in multi-million pound acquisition
Flush Energy Limited has looked to Lincolnshire for its first acquisition, as the start-up business seeks growth opportunities in the biomass sector.
Flush Energy has secured a multi-million pound funding package comprising private equity investment as well as debt finance to assist with its growth plans, following its acquisition of the business and assets of 3F Pellets Limited (in administration), a manufacturer and supplier of wood-based pellet products including biomass heating pellets.
Flush Energy is now focussed on returning the Lincolnshire-based plant to production and targeting further acquisition opportunities.
Led by corporate partner, Philip Ashworth, a multi-disciplinary team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP comprising Nicole Waldron (corporate), Samuel Peake (property), Nick Wilson (employment) and Fiona Phillips (tax), advised Flush Energy on the acquisition from joint administrators, Andy Pear and Milan Vuceljic of Moorfields Advisory.
Andrew Jackson also advised Flush Energy on the private equity investment and debt finance package.
The insolvency and reorganisation team at international law firm Clyde & Co LLP, led by partner Andrew Foster and assisted by Tristan Cox-Chung (legal director), Andrew Robertson (senior associate) and Lily Pidge (associate), were instructed by the joint administrators on the acquisition.
Clyde & Co’s corporate team, led by partners Simon Gamblin and Rob Lowe, provided legal advice to the debt funders.
Grant Lodge, CEO of Flush Energy, said: “We are delighted to have concluded the acquisition of the Lincoln pellet plant and are making swift progress with getting it back into production and yielding RHI income.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Philip Ashworth and his excellent team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, who we expect to be a key part of our team, helping us with our growth plans in the coming years.”
Philip Ashworth said: “We are absolutely delighted to have assisted the team at Flush Energy on its first acquisition. It has been a complex transaction involving various regulatory issues, raising private equity and debt funding. Flush Energy is now well placed to grow the business, which offers a solid customer base from a fantastic location.
“It has been a pleasure to act for Grant and his team and we are confident that they will make significant in-roads into the biomass sector over the coming months.”
Digital Innovation Grant support helps psychologist take the stress out of driving business growth
A Sheffield-based psychologist, who uses his knowledge of neuroscience to help his clients make better decisions has seen demand for his services boom after securing help from the South Yorkshire Digital Innovation Grant scheme to move his burgeoning business online.
Glenn Mead launched his business Face Value Performance in 2017 after calling on help from the Launchpad business support programme. Since launching his own company, the Sheffield-based entrepreneur has kept himself busy helping a wide range of senior business executives to learn how to improve decision making and their communications skills.
Glenn is no stranger to dealing with stressful situations. He served as an officer in the British Army for nine years, before going to forge a successful career in leadership and management where he worked across Europe. In recent years, Glenn developed a particular interest in understanding how being placed in stressful situations can impair judgement.
Drawing on his background in occupational psychology, over the past six years Glenn’s coaching businesses has successfully built a loyal client base, where he has supported lawyers, self-employed workers and senior executives. His business even counts the NHS and MOD amongst his growing client base.
With plans to scale and develop his business further, the experience of delivering his training sessions remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic inspired Glenn to expand his online support services. He recognised that the key to unlocking a digital training package was being able to help his clients enjoy a similar experience offered in a face-to-face setting, and to achieve that he needed to invest in new technology to improve the way his presentations were delivered.
To help him achieve his goals, Glenn decided to apply to the South Yorkshire Digital Innovation Grant scheme, a match-funded ERDF funded initiative designed to help businesses across the region to improve productivity by embracing new forms of technology. He decided to apply to the programme to help him fund the vital presentation equipment he needed to move more parts of his business online.
Glenn’s successful application helped him to invest in the vital new camera equipment needed to grow and develop his business. Unlike the web camera which he had relied upon previously, the new technology enabled him to improve the way in which his presentations were delivered. The new camera allowed Glenn to zoom in on specific areas, allowing him to display a digital screen, but crucially keep other areas of his workplace out of view.
Since implementing the technology, Glenn has been able to expand his online offering, helping him to secure a number of new contracts, which he would not have previously been able to support.
Glenn Mead, Founder, Face Value Performance Psychology, said: “Our body language can be just as important as the words we are speaking. Research has consistently shown that when a presentation is delivered in person, more information is retained. I realised that to expand my digital offering, I needed to invest in a system that could allow me to share the information I wanted to communicate in the presentation slides, but also show my face at the same time.
The funds I received from the Digital Innovation Grant scheme have been a genuine game-changer for my business. The technology I invested in has not only helped me to achieve greater flexibility when it comes to presenting information, but it has also given me the opportunity to record content and training sessions, allowing my clients to revisit the themes discussed outside of the sessions. It has helped me to secure and deliver work to businesses across the UK, something that would not have been possible previously. I am now hoping to grow the business further and gearing up to recruiting my first employee in the not-too-distant future.”
Christina Lima-Trindade, Business Growth Adviser, Business Sheffield said: “I’ve been working with Glenn since he first decided to launch his business and it’s been great to see how his business developed during that time. Like many businesses, Glenn was forced to adapt to a different way of working during the Covid-19 pandemic; however, he recognised that the technology that had helped him to navigate that difficult time could also provide a golden opportunity to open up new markets for the business.
The Digital Innovation Grant scheme was created specifically to help businesses harness new forms of technology to increase productivity and drive growth, and in Glenn’s case this has enabled him to service work that would have previously meant long journeys and lost working hours. Overcoming those challenges has enabled Glenn to maximise his working day, as well as using the technology to record new videos, and has generated additional sources of income for his business.”
The Digital Innovation Grant scheme was launched in July 2021 and helps SME businesses across South Yorkshire to access match-funded grants to help them embrace new ways of working to improve productivity and growth and enter new markets. The scheme is now closed to new applications.
The programme funded up to 50% of projects with costs totalling £2,000-£10,000. It is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and is delivered across South Yorkshire by Enterprising Barnsley, part of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council.
International rugby star turned commercial pilot tackles recruitment head on
Former international rugby player turned Emirates airline pilot Tony Underwood is to be the keynote speaker at an event in the city in October.
The event, organised by City of York Council’s Economic Growth Team, is called Recruitment and Retention Reimagined, and takes place in York’s Priory Street Centre on the morning of Thursday 5 October.
Tony now supports leaders seeking to nurture high-performing teams and will draw on his many experiences of teamwork and leadership to share his lessons with York’s businesses.
He said: “Recruitment and retention entail working hard to cultivate a culture where no-one wants to leave; an environment where you’ve earned commitment from your team, not just compliance – where you’ve engaged with them by talking to the heart not just the head.”
HR experts from across the region will join Tony to explore how York’s businesses of all shapes and sizes can improve their staff recruitment and retention processes in cost-effective and innovative ways.
Attendees will hear first-hand from local businesses, including the Grand Hotel, about the benefits of being inclusive employers, while Jenny Herrera, CEO of the Good Business Charter, will discuss how becoming a GBC-accredited business can help you attract and keep great staff.
Law firm’s sustainability initiatives – steps towards a greener future?
Climate conscious law firm Sills & Betteridge LLP are delighted to announce the introduction of a range of energy saving, carbon emission reducing initiatives.
Its largest undertaking is the recent installation of 79 solar panels to its central Lincoln Head Office with the aim of generating 1/3 of the site’s total energy usage – for 4 months of the year, solar energy will fully power the 4 floor office.
Derrick Denton, Director of UK Alternative Energy of North Hykeham in the city who managed the project said of the install “With Sills and Betteridge now occupying the whole of Aquis House, the challenge was to find a solar solution to help reduce the energy use within the building. A total of 79 x 405 W Canadian solar panels giving a system size 30.37kw, 3 x 10kw Solis inverters have been installed using a flat roof mounting system. This system has been equally split throughout the building and connected to the consumer units within the plant room. This system should see 25,000kwh of electricity generated each year and should see a saving of around six tons of CO2 every year. All the inverters are online, and the system can be displayed and monitored from anywhere in the world”.
Another investment has been the purchase of a new MG ZS Electric Hatchback car, bought to replace one of the firm’s diesel vehicles. It will be used by members of the firm to attend client appointments, external meetings and events. A charging point has been installed at Aquis House which clients are welcome to use when they are when visiting for appointments. The firm aspires to have a fully electric fleet by 2025.
Remote working and online video meetings are encouraged to help reduce avoidable travel across the region. Such methods became very popular with both clients and employees, further to their introduction during lockdown.
Digital and paper-light file management and document storage are another efficiency that the firm is embracing, to cut down on paper consumption and the cost of print and archiving. Document management system iManage is being rolled out across the firm to support its main practice management system.
Even the firm’s website www.sillslegal.co.uk is green, as verified by The Green Web Foundation, an independent non-profit organisation which tracks how much of the internet runs on green energy. Developed by DBS Internet Marketing, the site minimises the use of resources (and therefore energy) through quick download speeds and user-friendly navigation on all classes of device – and their hosting partner OVH used either renewable or low-carbon energy for 77% of its power last year with plans to increase it to 100%.
Chief Executive Officer of Sills & Betteridge, Martyn Hall said “Like many law firms, we are working hard to understand the impact of our operations and working methods on the environment and are actively seeking to reduce our overall carbon footprint with the initiatives and best practices outlined above. Our team have welcomed the new projects and we look forward to introducing more across the wider firm.”
Wykeland continues support for Hull’s Freedom Festival
Hull-based regeneration specialist Wykeland Group has again committed to being a major partner for the city’s Freedom Festival, which begins today and runs until September 3rd.
Freedom Festival Arts Trust brings other innovative arts projects, such as The Awakening and The Hull Vigil, to the city. As a charitable organisation, the Trust relies on backing from local businesses and generous individuals who contribute through in-kind support, partnerships and sponsorship.
As well as being a Freedom Festival Major Partner for many years, Wykeland’s commitment to the arts has extended to dozens of cultural organisations and events, including Humber Street Sesh, Pride in Hull, Hull Truck Theatre, the Amy Johnson Festival, Middle Child theatre company, Feral Art School, Beverley Puppet Festival and many more.
Wykeland MD Dominic Gibbons said: “Our support for culture and the arts in Hull and the wider region is something we’re wholeheartedly committed to and incredibly proud of.
“We believe passionately that physical, social and cultural regeneration are inextricably linked and that’s a key reason why we support cultural and arts organisations and events in so many ways.
“Freedom Festival is Hull’s premier cultural event and we have supported the festival and the organisation behind it since its earliest days. It’s one of the most significant ways in which we support cultural creativity, especially in Hull city centre and the Fruit Market where our business is based.”
Race Cottam Associates announce directors’ promotions
The board of directors at award-winning architectural practice, Race Cottam Associates (RCA) has been reorganised to lead the next phase of growth as the firm celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Paul Foster has been promoted from associate director to director while Laurie Cottam has become the practice’s MD after its current incumbent, David Speddings stepped into a senior design lead role. Pauline Lake’s role as director responsible for business development and David Cottam’s role as chairman both remain unchanged.
“This reorganisation of our Board has been carefully planned to implement our vision for growth but more importantly, to ensure business continuity,” explains Laurie Cottam. “David Speddings has been a familiar face for RCA clients for almost 30 years and will continue to act as our design quality champion, mentoring the next generation with his expertise in the advanced manufacturing, industrial and energy sectors.
“Similarly, as our work in healthcare has significantly accelerated, it was right to recognise and reward Paul’s substantial contribution with this promotion. A popular and proactive ambassador for the sector, Paul is best placed to lead this growth and ensure we remain a leading authority on design for health.
“Together with Pauline continuing to lead our education work and drive our sustainability credentials and business development, we’re confident we’ve orchestrated the best possible team to take RCA into its next 30 years,” concluded Laurie.
The directors’ revised roles follow a period of success for RCA. In healthcare, the recently completed new main entrance and paediatrics department at Hull Royal Infirmary won the Award for Design Excellence at the national Planning Awards 2023.
In education, RCA has secured a position on the University of Nottingham’s design consultancy framework, whilst both St Anne’s SEN School in Hessle and CAPA College in Wakefield are both shortlisted in the forthcoming Education Estates Awards.
The practice’s work on industrial and new infrastructure also continues to thrive, with planning permission recently gained for Smith + Nephew’s flagship manufacturing and R&D facility, and a fifth phase is nearing completion at AESSEAL’s precision engineering factory in Rotherham.
Laurie adds: “To record such a series of successes is a testament to the talent and creativity of our team. I am proud to be the custodian of the RCA brand and our recent Board changes ensure sustainable growth for future generations.”
Smart Works Leeds launches its inaugural ‘Fashion as a Force for Good’ Ball and Yorkshire Fashion Awards 2023
Smart Works Leeds, the charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for job and interview success, has announced a major fund-raising ball and awards ceremony this November.
The inaugural Fashion as a Force for Good Ball will take place at The Marriott Leeds on November 15, 2023. It promises to be a glamorous celebration of the best of Yorkshire fashion, hosted by a team of super-stylish Yorkshire personalities.
Attendees are encouraged to dress in an occasion outfit that makes them feel confident and tells a story. Smart Works Leeds co-chair of trustees Tracy Fletcher says: “We invite you to wear that outfit you never thought you would, that has perhaps been stored in your wardrobe for too long, or it might be a favourite piece that reminds you of a wonderful time.”
The evening will include eight awards, four recognising individuals and companies who have supported Smart Works Leeds, and four awards celebrating Yorkshire fashion designers, influencers, stylists and retail outlets, all promoting fashion as a force for good throughout their work. They will each be judged on their commitment to sustainable fashion, to their community, to diversity, inclusivity and innovation.
The four fashion categories are:
- Force for Good Indie of the Year – An independent fashion designer, shop or online boutique, based in Yorkshire, with community and/or sustainability at their heart as they deliver brilliant design and/or excellent customer experience and quality.
- Force for Good Retail Team of the Year – Open to all fashion stores, from small independents to large retailers with multiple stores and Yorkshire-based online retailers. We are looking for teams who strive to engage with and make a difference to their community and their environment. Is there a fashion store in Yorkshire that you love, where the staff always go that extra mile to make you look fabulous and feel confident?
- Force for Good Emerging Designer of the Year – For students, graduates and emerging designers, based in Yorkshire, who have a strong focus on sustainability and/or inclusivity challenges. Who has impressed you with their innovative portfolio, collections and projects? Who is the One to Watch?
- Force for Good Influencer of the Year – Which Yorkshire-based social media fashion icon do you admire most? Who wears it well, but also does so much more than that, highlighting issues of inclusivity, sustainability and ethics, championing others and striving always to use fashion as a force for good?
Flood defence plan costing £29m has begun on the Humber
A £29m project to manage the risk of flooding to people and major industry in north-east Lincolnshire has begun with improvements made to 4.5 kilometres of coastal defences along part of the Humber estuary’s south bank.
The defences will benefit 2,300 properties, nationally important infrastructure, vital industry, and areas outlined by North East Lincolnshire Council for future development.
This is the third phase of the Stallingborough Sea Defence Improvement Scheme, which has repaired and strengthened sea walls between Immingham and Grimsby in stages over the last 15 years.
This latest stage of work will see the installation of large rocks called rock armour along three kilometres of the seaward side of the flood defence. The rocks will cover from the Middle Drain to the northwest to the New Cut Drain to the southeast. The remaining 1.5 kilometres of defences will be repaired. In addition, the four river outfalls will also be repaired and improved to make them more sustainable and resilient to flooding.
The majority of the work will be undertaken over 3 years, with pauses through the winter to reduce ecological impacts to the seaward side of the defence.
Dom Freestone, Operations Manager for the Environment Agency, said: “Low-lying communities along the Humber are at high risk of tidal flooding and rising sea levels.
“Works to improve the flood defences are vital to manage that threat and will help drive business confidence and investment in the area. But despite our best efforts, flooding can still happen.”
Rock armour is one of the most sustainable and low-carbon options available and minimises the potential impact on the area’s internationally important habitats. It will help fortify the walls and prevent the sea undermining them, ensuring they continue to reduce flood risk for at least a further 25 years, taking account of climate change predictions.
The work is expected to generate economic benefits valued at £1.1 billion over the next 25 years.
Councillor Stewart Swinburn, Cabinet member for the Environment at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “Our coastline is an incredibly important one to protect, not only for the wonderful natural habitat, but also for the economic and industrial growth on the South Humber shore.
“The Humber Estuary’s natural tidal flow is something we have to embrace and work with, but by providing this investment in flood protection measures, the risk to people and businesses in this area is significantly less.”
Stallingborough’s coastal walls were originally built following devastating floods in 1953. They are now at increasing risk of damage from rising sea levels and more frequent storms.
South Yorkshire grant enables Danuta to bring her business to Barnsley
A Tech Welcome Grant funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has allowed a civil engineer specialising in complex 3D modelling to move her business to Barnsley to expand into the UK market and deliver training in CAD design software.
Danuta Rak’s 3DR Design and Training Studio Ltd, is the first recipient of such a grant, and has used it to part-fund an office at DMC 01 in Barnsley.
Moving from Rzeszów, in Poland, Danuta plans to use her new base as a springboard for growth, delivering 3D digital model applications for clients in a range of sectors including design and construction, medicine and research. Danuta will also offer training in AutoCad software.
Tech Welcome Grants aim to encourage tech businesses to move to the region – and also start-ups already here, to move into their first physical office space.
The grants provide help with accommodation costs for up to a year, with the percentage of rent covered dependent on the number of jobs the business brings to the region. Qualifying companies can choose to move into any South Yorkshire workspace.
3DR is the first company to gain a Tech Welcome Support Grant, which will cover 40 percent of the company’s rent for a 209 sq ft office at DMC 01 in Barnsley for 12 months.
Danuta said: “I was very keen to move to the UK to explore opportunities here; and the Tech Welcome Grant was a big help in taking this decision. The application process was quick and easy and the DMC team have been very helpful and welcoming.
“Every new business needs some financial support to move forward and develop; and this grant has helped me follow my ambition to work in the UK.
“DMC is a very friendly place and is more than an office but already a second home. It is good to be among so many smart, enterprising people.
“I am impressed with Barnsley too as it is an up-and-coming town. I am passionate about my work and excited about my company’s move to South Yorkshire.”
Beal secures planning approval to complete £210m Goole development
Beal Homes has secured full planning permission to complete the award-winning housebuilder’s largest-ever development, The Greenways in Goole.
The planning approval from East Riding of Yorkshire Council is for 600 homes, giving the green light for Beal to continue to deliver the £210m development, which will ultimately extend to 806 properties.
Construction of the remainder of the development will represent a further £156m investment by Beal in one of Yorkshire’s fastest-growing towns.
East Yorkshire-based Beal has now sold more than 180 homes at The Greenways, with continuing strong demand from a wide range of househunters, including first-time buyers, professionals, families and downsizers.
Many have been local people achieving their dream of owning a high-quality new home in their home town, with the Beal investment addressing a shortage of new-build properties in Goole.
The Greenways is on a 73-acre site equivalent to almost 50 football pitches off Rawcliffe Road in Goole and is the largest housing scheme in the town for decades.
The development is a key element of an ongoing wave of investment in Goole, including Siemens Mobility’s £200m-plus rail village and a worldwide distribution hub for FTSE 100 company Croda, which are creating hundreds of highly-skilled jobs in the town.
Demand for The Greenways has been exceptionally strong, validating Beal’s confidence in the town.
Beal Chief Executive Richard Beal said: “We identified the rich potential of Goole many years ago now, as well as a pent-up demand for high-quality new homes in the town.
“The strong sales we have achieved and the continuing high demand we are seeing at The Greenways has justified our confidence.
“We’re now pleased to have secured full planning permission to continue our long-term investment and the critical contribution we’re making to Goole’s remarkable rejuvenation.”
The 600 homes that have now received full planning consent will comprise a selection of Beal’s most popular two, three and four-bedroom properties.
Beal Land Director Chris Murphy said: “The Greenways has transformed the quality and variety of housing in Goole, providing luxury, contemporary homes for local residents as well as attracting new people to the town.
“As the largest single development in our company’s history, securing full planning permission for the remainder of The Greenways marks another significant milestone in our delivery of this long-term scheme.
“It builds on our proud history of delivering high-quality developments that enhance local communities, provide desirable places to live, and support economic growth.”
Ex-BBC presenter Rod offers experience to Carrington Communications
BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s longest-serving breakfast show presenter Rod Whiting is bringing his 35 years’ broadcasting experience to businesses across the UK as professional media trainer for Lincoln-based Carrington Communications.
Rod, who has worked for the BBC, ITN and commercial networks for over three decades, provides media training through his own brand, Ultravox Media Training.
Now, Carrington clients are also able to access Rod’s media training, adding to the agency’s existing digital marketing services for clients in manufacturing, professional services and tourism.
It also means Rod – now a presenter on commercial station Boom Radio – has been reunited with his former BBC colleague David Sykes, who worked alongside Rod at BBC Radio Lincolnshire before joining Carrington where he leads the agency’s PR team.
Mr Sykes said: “I used to be a reporter and producer for Rod’s programmes on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, and he is a truly formidable interviewer who knows exactly how to get the best from an interviewee or put them on the spot.
“As valuable as media coverage can be, there’s a good reason why people find the prospect of speaking to journalists or appearing on TV and radio daunting because the consequences could be either fantastic or disastrous. Fortunately, good media training and preparation can help ensure interviews go the right way, helping organisations and individuals get their message across to large audiences while proving themselves as experts that people can trust.
“We’ve arranged for Rod to train spokespeople from a few of the companies we work with already, and the feedback has been excellent so I’m really excited that we’re able to go this next step further and join forces properly.”
Rod said: “It’s been an aspiration to collaborate with a high quality PR organisation for a while and it’s good to be working with David again.
“Ultravox began trading as Rod Whiting Communications in January 2021, but, having now grown the business from a stand-still, the time is ripe for the next stage of development for the Ultravox Media Training brand. This, for me, is a natural and sensible progression in what is likely to be a challenging economic environment where media communications will be a critical business function.”
Yorkshire Business Myth Drinks recognised as one of UK’s most impressive firms
Myth Drinks in Yorkshire has been selected as one of the nation’s 100 most impressive small firms by the Small Business Saturday UK campaign, as it kicks off its second decade in the UK.
Myth Drinks is already a multi-award-winning business, creating alcohol free rum for those who enjoy good taste and good times with friends and family.
Founded by Colette Safhill in 2022, it was designed to offer something a bit different that’s not available elsewhere in the market.
Following a nationwide search, it has been chosen as part of this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up, which showcases 100 of the most inspiring independent businesses from across the nation.
Colette commented, “It’s wonderful to be selected as a SmallBiz100 and to have all our hard work recognised alongside the other fantastic businesses across the UK. We launched Myth Drinks to offer something special to customers, because that’s what it’s all about isn’t it. Innovating and creating new products that customers will want to choose time and time again.”
Myth Drinks was profiled by the campaign on August 25th as part of the 100-day countdown to Small Business Saturday UK.
Small Business Saturday will return on 2 December 2023, with a mission to support and celebrate the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses. With small firms facing huge challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis, the campaign is more vital than ever as it moves in to its second decade in the UK.
“It’s fantastic to celebrate Myth Drinks as part of this year’s campaign” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK.
“The impressive small businesses featured in this year’s SmallBiz100 sum up the phenomenal contribution that small firms make to our economy and local communities.”
Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and to support businesses in their communities.
The campaign was originally founded by American Express in the U.S. in 2010, and the brand remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK.
On Small Business Saturday customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, from independent boutiques and eateries to small service and b2b based businesses like wholesalers and digital marketers. Many small businesses take an active role in promoting the day by hosting events and offering promotions.
Over the time the campaign has run in the UK it has engaged millions of people each year and seen billions of pounds spent with small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday.
Small Business Saturday attracts huge attention on the day itself, with an impact that lasts all year. Last year the campaign trended at number one in the UK on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), with the Prime Minister and the Mayor of London among those publicly supporting the campaign. Over 90% of local councils also supported the campaign
Businessmen plan cross-country cycle ride to raise charity funds
A group of business professionals from the Humber are gearing up to repeat the 250-mile three-day Bridge to Bridge 4 (B2B4) cycling challenge to raise money for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation ten years after the inaugural ride.
Eight riders will start their journey from Llanfairpwllgwyngyll on Anglesey, riding over the bridge on the Menai Strait. The first leg of the challenge will see them take on a 120-mile route to Bollington, near Macclesfield. Day 2 will provide the riders with a challenging 60 mile trek over the Pennines, and their final day involves a 70-mile ride to the Humber Bridge.
The group is raising money for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation. The eldest son of one of the riders contracted a virus on his spine, causing paralysis from the chest down. Following news from doctors that he would never walk again, thanks to his commitment and determination to rehabilitation and physiotherapy, he is now able to walk with sticks. The aim of this ride is to raise funds and awareness of the ground-breaking research work into a cure for spinal cord injuries being supported financially by the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.
Participant and Chairman of Forrester Boyd Chartered Accounts, Mike Beckett, said: “This ride will be a real challenge of stamina and determination. I have embarked on a number of cycling challenges over the years but I am really looking forward to this one. Not only because of the route that we will be riding and the great group that I have as company, but also to try and raise much needed funds for this charity. With a firm belief that a cure for spinal cord injury is within reach, it is now more important than ever that we try to support the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation in reaching its goal.”
Other riders taking part in the challenge alongside Mike are, Andrew Cooney, Ronnie Fletcher, Mark Hague, Richard Hardy, Bobby Pye, John Pye, and Grant Stables.
