How to make your home more energy efficient

Tess Egginton
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How to make your home more energy efficient
Energy efficiency at home is a great way to save money, reduce CO2 emissions and help the environment. In the current economy and with the days and nights getting increasingly colder it is more important than ever that we try to make our homes as energy efficient as possible. Lincolnshire Radiators Direct have a large, hand-picked range of quality designer radiators with 15-year guarantees and free shipping. They’ve provided this helpful and informative blog to help you be more energy efficient.
  • Set your thermostat to around 18 degrees, this means whenever your house temperature drops below this your heating will kick in. This costs a lot less than if you keep turning your heating on and off and the system has to heat up from the start again.
  • Bleed your radiators, this will help your home to feel warmer and make your heating system more efficient as you’ve removed air pockets. As well as reducing the pressure in your system meaning you won’t have to turn your heating up as often.
  • Make sure your home is well insulated. This may mean an initial pay-out but with 35% of heat being lost through walls the investment will eventually pay for itself. Look into loft insulation, double glazing, cavity walls, and hot water tank jackets.
  • It can be hard in smaller or awkwardly designed rooms to not block radiators with bulky furniture that stops heat from spreading across the room but where possible avoid blocking radiators and heaters.
  • Instead focus on blocking drafts, buy draft excluders for your doors, or door curtains that keep the cool air out.
  • LED energy-saving light bulbs last longer and use less energy, saving you money on your energy bill and meaning you won’t have to add bulbs to your shopping list as often.
  • Draught-proofing your home can be a long process but thermal curtains are a great start, they help to block drafts and keep the heat in. Whilst it may be tempting to keep curtains open, keeping them shut when you’re out could help conserve heat in your home.
  • We’re not saying to rush out and buy all new kitchen appliances as if there is nothing wrong with your current appliances this would be wasteful. However, when it is time to buy a new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher opt for an energy-efficient one by keeping an eye out for the ‘energy saving recommended’ sticker.
  • If you’re not using a room, turn the lights off. This links well with turning off your TV and PC rather than leaving them on standby, this will reduce your electricity bill as well as avoid the emission of CO2.
  • Wait until you have a full load to put your dishwasher or washing machine on, this saves doing multiple washes that could have been done all at once.
  • Keep an eye on your weather app to see when there is a dry day to get your washing done, this could help you avoid using your tumble dryer more than necessary as whilst they’re very useful they’re also a big consumer of energy.
  • This seems small, but it all adds up. Don’t overfill your kettle, if you’re just making a drink for yourself, fill the kettle to the minimum line to avoid it boiling for longer than necessary.
  • Invest in a heated towel radiator, this way you can heat your bathroom whilst helping to dry damp towels between showers, avoiding the use of the tumble dryer or getting a fresh towel after one use and creating more washing.
  • If you’re not using a room, such as your spare bedroom, turn the radiator down in that room, keeping it on low to avoid dampness in the cold months. A great way of doing this is installing thermostatic radiator valves onto your radiators to control the flow of water into individual radiators which allows you to control the maximum temperature in each room.
  • Install solar panels: This is an expensive initial investment, but renewable energy is the cleanest form of energy and solar panels pay for themselves after around 10 years. If you plan to live in your home long-term they can be a fantastic investment.
Lincolnshire Radiators Direct hope these tips will help you be more energy efficient, reduce your carbon footprint and save you money. Whilst there is no set rule it is recommended to change your radiators every 15-20 years, old central heating systems and radiators are known to be less energy efficient. You can shop our range here, we stock column radiators, vertical radiators and so much more. For more information don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01522 620190.

Administrators of plant-based foods firm secure sale of manufacturing site

Tess Egginton
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Administrators of plant-based foods firm secure sale of manufacturing site
The administrators of Plant and Bean Limited (P&B) have sold the company’s manufacturing site and associated equipment to Vegan Solo Consulting Limited (Vegan Solo) and Duo Renovations Ltd (DRL). P&B is a dedicated alternative protein food manufacturer based in Boston, Lincolnshire, operating from a 125,000 sq ft factory and producing vegetarian products for large brand names with placements in major supermarkets. The company entered administration on 31 May 2023 when James Clark and Howard Smith at Interpath were appointed joint administrators. Vegan Solo specialises in the production of meat-free products and is run by Heather Mills, the entrepreneur and a leading champion for the vegan movement. This purchase will add to Miss Mills’ existing portfolio which includes Vbites – a pioneer of meat-free substitutes. Like several other businesses in the sector, P&B experienced significant inflation across its cost base, primarily increases in food and energy prices. The business also suffered from several operational issues stemming from a lack of investment. It is understood that following the sale there will be a period of renovations to upgrade the production capabilities, and that Miss Mills is determined to ensure that any future manufacturing that takes place at the site be plant-based. Heather Mills said: “I am delighted to acquire the P&B facilities and to keep it as a non-meat factory. I am also pleased to try and help the founder of P&B who has worked in a similar vein to myself for many decades to drive positive change for the environment, the animals and for the health of the global population.” James Clark, Managing Director at Interpath and a joint administrator of Plant and Bean Limited, said: “I am delighted to secure a sale of this great facility to someone committed to investing and improving on the great manufacturing capabilities implemented by Plant and Bean. The factory has huge scope to deliver improved economic output for the Boston area and we wish the buyer all the best in their new venture.”

Air IT swoops for Yorkshire firm

Tess Egginton
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Air IT swoops for Yorkshire firm
Air IT, the Managed Service Provider (MSP) with offices in Nottingham and Derby, has snapped up Yorkshire and London-based Vital Technology Group. Air IT and Vital combined employ almost 500 people and operate across eight regional UK offices, delivering a local personal service to over 2,300 clients. Lee Evans and Alex Dawson, Joint Managing Directors of Vital, said: “We’ve spent the last 15 years developing and growing Vital into a successful regional business with an enviable local reputation. “By joining Air IT, we’ll not only be able to offer additional technical expertise, skillsets and capabilities, whilst continuing to deliver the highest levels of service to our clients, but will continue our journey of growth, establishing Air IT as the IT partner of choice for SMEs in Yorkshire and the North East region.” James Steventon, CEO at Air IT, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Vital to Air IT. They’re a great addition to our team, sharing a similar approach, culture, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients. “With a strong focus on Microsoft cloud solutions, we’re looking forward to combining our joint knowledge, skills and experience to deliver even greater results for our valued clients.”

Firms collaborate to create wildlife oasis

Stuart Pearcey
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Firms collaborate to create wildlife oasis
Businesses CPL Products, DFDS, and Associated British Ports are working to transform an unmanaged section of highway verge alongside West Haven Way, into a wildlife oasis at the Port of Immingham. With support and guidance from Humber Nature Partnership, a team of nine volunteers from the companies planted foxglove, mullein and purple loosestrife to complement the herbaceous species already present in the verge such as teasel and yellow rattle. Part of the transformation includes the creation of a 100 metre long green wall. Utilising an existing concrete boundary wall, volunteers have planted climbers such as honeysuckle, ivy and winter jasmine to prefixed sections of trellis and there are plans to put in place bird nesting boxes. In time the 1,000 square metre verge will transform into valuable habitat for a range of wildlife including: butterflies, birds and small mammals.  Along with habitat improvements for wildlife, once established the enhanced verge and green wall will also help to suppress dust in the form of particulates from the road. Simon Bird, Director Humber, said: “As part of our commitment to sustainability we actively look for areas we can make improvements to for all manner of flora and fauna. Working in partnership is key to our work, my thanks to CPL, DFDS and the Humber Nature Partnership for bringing this project to life.” Humber Nature Partnership Conservation Officer, Alan Jones, said: “The entire verge will now be managed as a wildlife haven and promises a year-round display. The team will be working on further development of the area across the year.”

Lincoln firm starts work on boathouse project in Nottinghamshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Lincoln firm starts work on boathouse project in Nottinghamshire
Lincoln-based Lindum Construction has started work on a new boat house and restaurant space at Kings Mill Reservoir near Sutton in Ashfield in Nottinghamshire. The project has begun with the creation of a new car park and will include the demolition of an old boat house to make way for a new two-storey structure providing modern, accessible changing and storage facilities for water sports on the ground floor, with a restaurant and function space on the first floor. The project is one of 17 in the district being funded by £62.6m of Towns Funding and will complement the expansion of the neighbouring The Mill Adventure Base. Lindum Construction Manager Mark Robertson said the entire project would take around a year to complete. “We are looking forward to getting started on this project, which will result in a superb leisure attraction for local people. The restaurant will be in a fantastic location with views of the water,” he said. “We have a strong pipeline of local subcontractors who will be working on this scheme with us so the council’s investment will continue to circulate within the economy. “It is good to be working with Ashfield District Council again. Lindum has a delivered several housing schemes for the authority over the past three years and we’ve developed a strong relationship, based on openness, trust and successful delivery of projects.” Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead for Growth, Regeneration and Local Planning added: “This is another positive step for our plans to make Mill Waters one of the top tourist destinations in the East Midlands. “We want to hear from clubs or individuals, who are keen to get involved in developing and running water sports activities at the reservoir. Please get in touch with the team if you are interested.” Newark-based Influence Landscape Planning and Design is the landscape architect on the project. As part of the planning application, Influence provided visual appraisal and comprehensive landscape design to complement the new building. Kathryn Dunk, principal landscape architect at Influence, said: “Kings Mill Reservoir is a special place where nature and visitors flock. It’s a place for being close to nature, enjoying the surroundings and experiencing the myriad of water sports on offer. “I’m really pleased that progress is being made to create the new leisure building which will sit alongside the water sports facilities and provide a place to dine and relax. Naturally landscape plays a key part here and we have created designs that responds to the specific character of the reserve, with a naturalistic planting palette of grasses and wildflowers and native Downy Birch trees reaching across the site to the water’s edge.”

One-day event examines latest developments in cooling for machining

Stuart Pearcey
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One-day event examines latest developments in cooling for machining
The seventh annual cooling seminar run by Rotherham’s Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre will explore the state of the art in advanced coolant techniques for the most demanding machining applications. The one-day forum on September 21st brings together industrial users with researchers to discuss the opportunities and challenges of advanced cooling methods, and share the latest knowledge and innovation. There will be speakers from leading engineering companies and research institutions to the AMRC Knowledge Transfer Centre to discuss their work across a host of industries and applications. The Nuclear AMRC has led research into supercritical CO2 cooling over the past eight years, with a focus on combining CO2 with minimum quantity lubricant (MQL) techniques for optimum performance in the most challenging machining tasks. Recent projects include work with difficult-to-machine refractory metals such as tungsten for applications in the fusion power sector. These advanced cooling techniques can improve component surface integrity, cleanliness, reduce the cost of the components, reduce waste and cut the environmental impact of machining. But in applications where quality and performance are critical, dedicated R&D is needed to optimise CO2 and MQL delivery parameters and cutting conditions. To register, go to advancedcooling23.eventbrite.co.uk

Government prepares to out ‘rip-off’ road fuel price retailers

Stuart Pearcey
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Government prepares to out ‘rip-off’ road fuel price retailers
Government has taken action after finding some supermarkets after deciding that some fuel retailers treated drivers as cash cows, charging 6p more per litre for fuel from 2019 to 2022 – meaning £900m in extra costs across the UK in 2022 alone. In a win for consumers, drivers will be able to compare prices in real time in any area of the UK, through a new fuel price reporting scheme. Drivers will be able to easily identify those charging fair prices and those failing to pass on savings from falling wholesale costs. The government will change the law to force retailers to comply by providing up to date price information, which is expected to lead to greater transparency and competition – in turn driving down prices and easing people’s cost of living. The new scheme will make pricing data available for third parties – paving the way for them to create price comparison apps and websites – supporting the digital economy and helping growth. The tough action by government follows publication of a Competitions and Markets Authority report showing some supermarkets charged drivers 6p more per litre for fuel. This amounts to £900m in extra costs in 2022 alone – around £75m a month. New powers will be handed to a public organisation yet to be decided, to closely monitor the UK road fuel market, scrutinise prices and alert government if further intervention is needed. Energy Security Secretary Grant Schnapps said: “Some fuel retailers have been using motorists as cash cows – they jacked up their prices when fuel costs rocketed but failed to pass on savings now costs have fallen. “It cannot be right that at a time when families are struggling with rising living costs, retailers are prioritising their bottom line, putting upwards pressure on inflation and pocketing hundreds of millions of pounds at the expense of hardworking people.

Today I’m putting into action the CMA’s recommendations and standing by consumers – we’ll shine a light on rip-off retailers to drive down prices and make sure they’re held to account by putting into law new powers to increase transparency.”

West Yorkshire SMEs get advice on energy cost-cutting measures

Stuart Pearcey
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West Yorkshire SMEs get advice on energy cost-cutting measures
Businesses under financial pressures from inflation and the climate crisis are to benefit from new support being launched today by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin. The Mayor’s Business Sustainability Support will help SMEs cut their energy use and combat the effects of climate change. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority will work with interested businesses to develop and implement new sustainability plans, aimed at slashing energy bills and boosting resilience against rising temperatures, supply chain issues and flooding. Following a free assessment of the firm’s environmental impact, these bespoke plans will recommend various workplace adaptations, such as lighting that is more energy efficient, measures that cut down on waste, or equipment that harnesses cheap, clean and renewable energy, including solar panels. Advice will then be offered on how to deliver the plan, secure public and private investment, and make sustainable changes to ensure annual energy bill savings long into the future. Mayor Tracy Brabin said the new support would be a gamechanger in the region’s fight to become a more resilient, Net Zero carbon economy by 2038. The £10m fund comes after the Mayor’s recent launch of the West Yorkshire Plan, which commits to building a greener, more vibrant West Yorkshire that works for all. She said: “As the cost of living and energy crisis continues, it’s vital we step up support for our hardest hit businesses, helping them keep down costs, protect jobs and stay afloat during this difficult time. “This new, £10m scheme will help us deliver a greener West Yorkshire by slashing the carbon footprint of our small and medium-sized businesses, while futureproofing them against the harmful effects of climate change. “As we transition to a net zero carbon economy by 2038, we’re determined to ensure that no business is left behind, as we work to make positive, greener changes that benefit all our communities across the region.”

The scheme will build on previous sustainability support through the Mayor’s Resource Efficient Business programme, which helped 360 West Yorkshire businesses save an average of £11,500 per year on their energy bills.

Lowe Engineering Limited, a Leeds-based power plant equipment supplier, was given a £5,000 grant last year, which was used to fit the warehouse and offices with modern LED lighting, helping to save the business up to £2,000 per year.

Operations Director Graeme Walker said: “Improving the lighting throughout our premises had been on our “to do” list for some time but, due to the large initial expenses and slow cost-saving recovery, it was always at the back of the queue when it came to annual building repairs and improvements.

“However, with the onset of higher energy prices coupled with the Mayor’s support, we were encouraged to install LED lighting throughout the building, and recovered our 50% of the expenses within a short period of time.

“It is safe to say that without the scheme in place, this improvement would still be on the “to do” list.”

Businesses are encouraged to find out more about the support on our Sustainability webpage.

Arco scoops Yorkshire Family Business of the Year Award

Stuart Pearcey
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Arco scoops Yorkshire Family Business of the Year Award
Safety specialist Arco has won the Yorkshire Family Business of the Year Award at the Family Business United Awards, in which it was up against more than 200 national businesses. The judges recognised the role which the Martin family plays through its stewardship and investment in the business. Whether that be through being active members in our communities through charitable work or lobbying for change in parliament against non-compliant PPE, their passion, expertise and support is invaluable. At a ceremony held in London, fifth-generation family member Charley Seward, who’s Supplier Relationships and Transformation Manager, Becky Casson, Buying Director, picked up the award on Arco’s behalf. Mr Seward said: “I was delighted to accept the award on behalf of the 1600 members of the Arco family who make this business tick. As colleagues, we know we have something very special at Arco, but it’s wonderful to have this validated by Family Business United too.” CEO Guy Bruce added: “It’s a privilege and honour to have our business recognised in this space and to be able to share in the celebrations with other family business of all sizes, generations and sectors who were also awarded on the night. “Congratulations to all colleagues on this achievement – you all play a part in making this business great.”

Survey shows major jobs boost for Yorkshire & the Humber manufacturers

Tess Egginton
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Survey shows major jobs boost for Yorkshire & the Humber manufacturers

A new report released today from Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP, shows that manufacturing remains vital to the success of the economy in Yorkshire & the Humber, with the sector accounting for more than 15% (15.4%) of the region’s output in 2022, substantially ahead of the national average of just under 10%. 

This is a significant increase on the share of output from 2021 (14.6%) and is reflected in a major boost for manufacturing jobs across the region with employment having jumped from 278,000 in 2021 to 316,000 in 2022.

This has been largely driven by the Food and Drink sector which accounts for almost a fifth of manufacturing output in the region (16.2%) and has benefitted significantly from the re-opening of hospitality during 2022. This is followed by the manufacture of chemicals (15.4%) and Metal Products, largely steel, at 13.9%.

The region is also a strong export performer with its share of exports going to the EU (worth £11billion) remaining at 57%, well above the UK average of 52%. This makes Yorkshire & the Humber the second most dependent English region on the EU market, but leaves the region more exposed to new trading arrangements with the bloc than other English regions and devolved nations.

The next largest destination is North America, accounting for 17% of goods exports, closely followed by Asia & Oceania which accounts for 12% of goods exports.

Dawn Huntrod, Make UK director for the North, said: “Industry remains critical to the growth of the Yorkshire & Humber economy, providing high value, high skill jobs and aiding the process of levelling up.

“To build on this position we need a national industrial strategy which encompasses local growth strategies which fit with the priorities and strengths of the region including infrastructure, innovation and skills in particular.”

Steve Talbot, head of manufacturing at BDO in Yorkshire, added: “The manufacturing jobs growth we have seen in the region across the last year is testament to the resilience of the sector as a whole.

“Manufacturing companies across Yorkshire & the Humber have had to overcome the multiple challenges thrown up by Brexit, shortages in skilled labour, pandemic-related supply chain delays and the huge energy price rises we have seen following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“While everyone is hoping for some respite, the headwinds show no sign of abating. With high inflation and interest rates continuing to rise, manufacturers will need to remain alert, responsive and resilient in the face of any future geopolitical or economic shocks.”

Independent labour review urges action to help farmers get necessary workers

Stuart Pearcey
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Independent labour review urges action to help farmers get necessary workers
The government’s Independent Labour Review has published its findings and has called for action to be taken now to improve British farmers’ access to a skilled and motivated workforce.
The review includes the NFU request to remove the cap on the total number of seasonal agricultural worker visas and extend the length of those visas to nine months. It also suggests businesses should have the ability to directly sponsor workers and calls for greater automation with improved access to funding. NFU Deputy President Tom Bradshaw said ensuring we had enough workers was essential to maintain domestic food security and provide British consumers with high quality, nutritious, climate-friendly food. “Our own recent survey looking at worker shortages across the agriculture industry shows that 41% of respondents reduced the amount of food they produced due to being unable to recruit the essential workforce needed.” He said the NFU had gathered responses from 506 members as part of a survey which looked into eight different roles which have been a challenge to fill within farming and horticulture. Despite respondents using a variety of platforms and techniques to advertise for new employees, such as recruitment agencies, social media, word of mouth, and taking varying measures to retain and recruit, 71% of respondents said they have had difficulty in retaining workers in the past two years. “The horticulture and poultry sectors have been severely impacted by worker shortages in recent years, and we welcome the panel’s recommendation to secure the Seasonal Workers Scheme beyond 2024,” said Tom. “We have been calling for a long-term 5-year rolling scheme to guarantee businesses have the certainty they need to continue producing food.” Just under a quarter of respondents said that they were increasing automation on farm to minimise the impact of labour shortages on their business, but automation still has a long way to go before it can replace labour completely. One grower who participated in the survey explained how despite having looked at automation to minimise the impact of the shortages “the technology is not there, so we are still heavily reliant on human labour, especially in the field”.

Centrica boss calls for reform of energy sector pricing

Stuart Pearcey
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Centrica boss calls for reform of energy sector pricing
Centrica’s Group Chief Exec Chris O’Shea has called on the energy regulator Ofgem to implement reforms that could make the energy sector more transparent, simpler and more affordable for customers. He’s urging abolition of the standing charge from the price cap and putting it into the unit cost, moving to a flat national tariff with no regional variations, and introducing a progressive social tariff to help those who need most help with bill payments. He said: “Existing energy bills are way too complicated – we’ve got to change that. Any customer should be able to pick up their bill and easily understand how it is calculated, and how they can get help if they need it. It should be simple and straightforward. There are three things we want Ofgem and the Government to change to make the system more affordable, fairer and easier to understand. He added: “The last few years have shown us that we need to make changes. This is a crucial issue for millions of households. We need other suppliers, distributors, regulators, and the Government to come together, work with us, and help us make these reforms a reality.”

August’s alcoholic drink tax reforms will slash duty payable by pubs

Stuart Pearcey
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August’s alcoholic drink tax reforms will slash duty payable by pubs
The biggest Alcohol Duty reforms in 140 years come into effect at the beginning of August, creating six standardised alcohol duty bands across all types of alcoholic products. The rules will apply to all individuals and businesses involved in making, distributing, holding and selling alcoholic products across the UK. To support the hospitality industry, and recognising the vital role played by pubs in our communities, there will also be a reduced rate for draught products – known as Draught Relief. This will reduce Alcohol Duty on qualifying beer and cider by 9.2%, and by 23% on qualifying wine-based, spirits-based and other fermented products, sold in on-trade premises such as pubs and restaurants. The reforms will mean that every pint in every pub across the UK will pay less duty than their supermarket equivalent, in line with the government’s Brexit Pubs Guarantee. These reforms will replace and extend the existing Small Brewers Relief with Small Producer Relief. This means that all small businesses that produce any alcoholic products with an ABV of less than 8.5% will be eligible for reduced rates on qualifying products, if they produce less than 4,500 hectolitres per year. To support wine producers and importers in moving to the new method of calculating duty on their products, temporary arrangements will be in place for 18 months from 1 August 2023 until 1 February 2025. From 1 August 2023 the Alcohol Duty system will tax all alcoholic drinks based on their alcohol by volume. This replaces the current Alcohol Duty system, which consists of four separate taxes covering beer, cider, spirits, wine and made-wine. Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Gareth Davies said: “Because we left the EU we can make sure our alcohol duty system works for us. From next month the whole system will be simpler – the duty will reflect the strength of the drink. “We will also protect pubs and brewers with our Brexit Pubs Guarantee keeping Draught Duty down, and a new Small Producer Relief.” Jonathan Athow, Director General of Customer Strategy & Tax Design, HMRC, said: “After listening to feedback from industry, economists, public health groups and many business owners, the new Alcohol Duty system will be based on the founding principle of taxing alcoholic products by strength, ensuring consistency across the board for the first time. “The new system will support the government’s public health objectives and provide extra support to small producers, pubs and the hospitality sector.” To support innovation and responsible drinking, low strength drinks below 3.5% ABV will be charged at a new lower rate of duty. In making these changes, the government aims to encourage product innovation and ensure the Alcohol Duty system works for business and consumers.

University of Bradford signs as shirt sponsor with Bradford City

Stuart Pearcey
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University of Bradford signs as shirt sponsor with Bradford City

The University of Bradford is to be the back-of-shirt sponsor for Bradford City AFC for at least three seasons.

The University of Bradford became officially partnered with the club last summer, when a four-year deal saw the launch of the University of Bradford Stadium. Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: “To be announced as the new back of shirt sponsor for Bradford City is a proud moment for us. Working in partnership with Bradford City has been, and continues to be fruitful for the region as we come together to work with the community of Bradford and the young people of the city. Seeing the name of the city’s university on both the players and the fans who are so proud to support their club will be fantastic as our partnership grows and develops.” This agreement signifies the latest development in a partnership which pledges to unlock community opportunities across the district, and will see the University’s branding take pride of place on the rear of the Bantams’ playing and replica jerseys for at least the next three seasons. It follows last week’s news that fellow club partner, Mitton Group, would be ending a seven-year spell as the club’s back of shirt sponsor, and comes ahead of next week’s unveiling of City’s 2023/24 home kit. City’s chief commercial officer Davide Longo said: “Working with Bradford-based businesses and other key pillars from across the district is hugely important for us, and this agreement signifies the start of another exciting period for the club, partnered with University of Bradford. “The first year of our partnership has already proved highly beneficial, not only for the two parties but also for thousands of individuals across the district, as we continue to harness and nurture the young talent this city has. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon and the brilliant staff at the University for their hard work and fantastic support, and for sharing our vision and many of our core values, which has in turn allowed this partnership to flourish. “We are looking forward to what the next three years hold – and, of course, seeing the University of Bradford’s name on the rear of our playing and replica shirts.”

East Yorkshire man gets suspended sentence for illegal waste site offences

Stuart Pearcey
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East Yorkshire man gets suspended sentence for illegal waste site offences
An East Yorkshire man received a suspended sentence and was ordered to pay £2,000 in compensation and costs, after illegally storing hazardous waste including flooring materials with the appearance of containing asbestos and running an illegal waste site in Aldbrough. Stephen Coates, (aged 58), of Souttergate, Hedon, appeared at Hull Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 29 June after earlier pleading guilty to two charges. Coates received a custodial sentence of 17 weeks for each charge to run concurrently, suspended for 12 months, ordered to pay £2,000 in compensation and costs to the Environment Agency, which brought the case, and an order to clear a waste site within 12 months. The court heard how Coates is the owner and operator of a site on Hull Road on the outskirts on the village on Aldbrough. An investigation by the Environment Agency found Coates was storing abandoned corroding chemical drums, intermediate bulk containers, shipping containers, old tyres and flooring materials with the appearance of containing asbestos on his land next to a residential house over a period of five years from March 2017 to March 2022. He failed to remove the waste when ordered to do so after the Environment Agency served him with a notice. The Environment Agency cleared some of the waste at its own cost (£120,000) but 60 tonnes of chemicals remains on the site. Mr Coates was then charged with operating a regulated facility without an environmental permit and storing waste in a manner likely to cause harm to human health and pollution of the environment. In sentencing, the District Judge said this case was reckless with a willful disregard for the environment. The defendant had been ordered to clear the site, failed to do so, which meant there were significant clean-up costs to be covered by taxpayers. In mitigation, it was acknowledged that Coates had entered guilty pleas at the earliest opportunity.

Levelling up funding includes cash for Thirsk hospice

Stuart Pearcey
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Levelling up funding includes cash for Thirsk hospice
The Lambert Hospice in Thirsk will be restored and renovated to become the first hospice in the area, removing the need for people to travel long distances across the district for end-of-life care and support. It’s one of 52 community assets which will be revived thanks to almost £13 million of government levelling up funding. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has today announced the latest allocations from the second round of the £150million Community Ownership Fund. The funding will help community groups take ownership of local institutions that have fallen into disrepair or are under threat of closure and give them a new lease of life. This will ensure they continue to provide vital services, create opportunities and boost local economies, while restoring optimism, hope and pride in UK communities. Michael Gove, Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, said: “This cash will help to revive the vital community spaces which give people a sense of belonging and pride in their communities and allow them to thrive. “We want people across the country to have great opportunities no matter where they live. Ensuring that they can continue to benefit from treasured local institutions is an important part of this.” The Community Ownership Fund has now delivered £36.8m investment for a total of 150 projects across the UK, including £3m for Northern Ireland, £5.2m for Scotland, £3.2m for Wales and £25.5m for England.

Contractors invited to Freshney Place ‘meet the buyer’ event

Stuart Pearcey
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Contractors invited to Freshney Place ‘meet the buyer’ event
Construction industry contractors are being invited to a ‘meet the buyer’ event for the next contracting phase for the multi-million redevelopment of Grimsby’s Freshney Place. It is being organised by the centre’s owner North East Lincolnshire Council and Morgan Sindall Construction – the company delivering the major leisure scheme. Contractors in the construction industry are invited to a drop-in session at Grimsby Town Hall on Friday 7th July any time between 9am and 3pm. Whilst discussion will focus on the main Freshney Place Leisure and Market redevelopment, there will be an opportunity to hear about other construction projects and potential future work. Encouraging the relevant contractors to go along, North East Lincolnshire Council Leader Philip Jackson said: “There is a real desire to involve as many people as possible to come along and see the opportunities that may be open to them as this really significant scheme moves forward. “We have been highly successful in winning millions of pounds in Government funding to ensure the reinvention of our town centre is successful and we are on our way to achieving that. If you are a relevant contractor then please go along and find out how you may be able to be a part of the journey,” he added. As reported, the transformation of the western end of Freshney Place will include a new Market Hall, a 5-screen cinema to be operated by Parkway Cinemas, and other leisure opportunities. This will complement the retail offer within the shopping centre, which is the largest covered centre in Lincolnshire with an average weekly footfall of 125,000 – supporting 1,700 full and part-time jobs. Financial support for the work was granted following a successful £20m bid by North East Lincolnshire Council to round two of central Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Ben Hall, Morgan Sindall Construction’s Area Director, said he believes this scheme will be a ‘real game-changer’ for Grimsby. “We are looking forward to bringing employment opportunities to local people, and in working with local schools and colleges to introduce young people to the construction industry,” he said. More information at  https://www.localsupplychain.co.uk/– external site

Sheffield Forgemasters recognised by two manufacturing award schemes

Stuart Pearcey
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Sheffield Forgemasters recognised by two manufacturing award schemes
Two UK Top 100 manufacturing awards have recognised Sheffield Forgemasters. The company is named in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, a prestigious annual employer rankings developed by the Department of Education to independently assess and rank the country’s highest achieving apprenticeship employers. Its Chief Operating Officer (COO) and former apprentice, Gareth Barker, has also been listed as one of 20 exemplars in The Manufacturer Top 100, a renowned awards programme showcasing the UK’s highest performers within manufacturing. David Bond, Chief Executive at Sheffield Forgemasters, said:“Apprentices make up roughly ten per cent of our workforce at any one time and are fundamental to our forward planning strategy. The award is testament to the diligence and efforts of all those who recruit, mentor and coach our young apprentices to help them achieve. “This year we have undertaken one of our larger apprentice intakes, with 24 apprenticeship positions filled across numerous disciplines, as we continue to build our knowledge base for the future and create new skills to service the UK defence programme.” Sheffield Forgemasters’ apprenticeship scheme boasts more than 30 years of continuous annual recruitment, with more than 90 per cent of apprentices who complete their training remaining with the company to embrace its continuous learning and development culture. The company scored 58 th in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, beating companies including Tesco, Rolls-Royce and Babcock. Former apprentice Gareth Barker was awarded for his standing as a role model to UK manufacturing and for his transition from apprentice machinist at 19 years in the early 1990s, to COO in 2021, now responsible for the iconic company’s vast defence-driven recapitalisation programme. Mr Bond added: “The success story which saw Gareth appointed to the Board is well deserved and is highly relevant to the apprenticeship programme at Sheffield Forgemasters. “His achievements, the knowledge that he has accrued and his progress through virtually every senior managerial position in the company, now position Gareth to oversee the largest investment programme in the company’s 200 plus year history. “As an exemplar to UK manufacturing, Gareth symbolises how far apprentices can go if they have the right attitude and the correct support, he is a role model that we can be very proud of.”

HMRC under fire for closing its self-assessment telephone helpline

Stuart Pearcey
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HMRC under fire for closing its self-assessment telephone helpline
The decision by HMRC to shut its self-assessment telephone helpline for three months, just weeks after strikes disrupted services for the self-employed, has been criticised by CIS payroll company Hudson Contract. MD Ian Anfield said the department was piloting a “seasonal model” in which it will direct self-assessment queries from the helpline to its digital services, including online guidance, digital assistant and webchat. The helpline, closed on June 12, won’t be available until September 4. Urging HMRC to reopen the helpline, Mr Anfield said a number of people had contacted Hudson Contract with concerns about the closure, which follows on from the disruption of last month’s industrial action at HMRC. Mr Anfield said: “We know from experience the helpline is by far the easiest way for subbies to quickly resolve any issues with their self-assessment, especially if they are paying higher than necessary tax deductions under CIS. It is simply not practical for tradespeople to get online, register for digital services and then look out for HMRC messages when they are busy working on building sites.” The chairwoman of the Treasury Committee, Harriett Baldwin MP, has questioned the impact the closure will have on taxpayers, whether an analysis and a consultation had taken place and if the helpline would be reopened should the detriment to taxpayers be greater than expected. Mr Anfield added: “We would urge HMRC to reopen the helpline. Some self-employed people use refunds from their tax returns to fund holidays, newly registered people are faced with a registration deadline in early October and the last date for paper submissions falls at the end of October. The helpline being closed now will impact all of these groups and HMRC will struggle with the inevitable backlog when it reopens in September. “We are already seeing private companies stepping in with alternative helplines, which means the self-employed will be paying for advice they should have received for free from HMRC.” Meanwhile, it has emerged that 184,000 low earners were fined by HMRC last year for failing to complete a self-assessment tax form on time, even though they had no tax to pay in the first place, according to think thank Tax Policy Associates

“Get involved” call as Innovation Arc vision continues to take shape

Tess Egginton
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“Get involved” call as Innovation Arc vision continues to take shape
People across Leeds are being encouraged to help shape the future of the city’s Innovation Arc and the vital part it has to play in boosting inclusive economic growth. Covering an area on the western side of the city centre equivalent to 185 football pitches, the Innovation Arc is home to many renowned and long-established educational, health and cultural institutions as well as a variety of start-ups, scale-ups and major businesses. Leeds City Council is working closely with partners on a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) that will help provide a 20-year vision for the further development of the Innovation Arc in a way that delivers jobs and opportunities for all. A first round of public consultation on the SPD took place late last year, with the responses received being carefully analysed and used to fine-tune its draft contents. Now a second round of SPD consultation is getting under way, giving local residents and stakeholders another chance to have their say on the vision for the area and its exciting blend of cutting-edge academic research and entrepreneurial business activity. Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, said: “Our city has a well-deserved reputation for pioneering and progressive thinking, and that in no small part is down to the kind of expertise we see concentrated in the Innovation Arc. “We’re determined to do everything we can to ensure that this dynamic area keeps developing, keeps creating economic opportunities and keeps attracting investment that benefits everyone in Leeds. “The Supplementary Planning Document will have an important role to play in helping us achieve our aims, and I would encourage all interested parties to get involved and share their thoughts.” Once completed, the SPD will guide future planning applications, underpin the delivery of improved infrastructure and support relevant funding bids. The second round of consultation on the SPD is open now and runs until July 26. Click here. for further information on how to get involved. The University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds Arts University and Leeds Teaching Hospitals are among the prestigious institutions operating in the Innovation Arc, alongside some of the region’s largest public and private sector employers and mainstays of civic and cultural life like Leeds Town Hall, Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum and Leeds Central Library. Bordered by Woodhouse, Hyde Park, Burley and New Wortley, the area already has the highest concentration of employment in the region – but, crucially, also offers huge potential for further sustainable investment in buildings, public spaces and connectivity. Key elements of the Innovation Arc vision currently include:
  • Unlocking a further one million square feet of innovation space to provide new research facilities and hubs for start-ups, co-working and other business activity;
  • Delivering enhanced public transport routes together with new walking and cycling links that lessen the socially-restrictive impact of physical barriers such as the Inner Ring Road;
  • Ensuring that these travel improvements include accessible and welcoming connections to surrounding neighbourhoods such as Little London, Woodhouse, Hyde Park, Burley and New Wortley;
  • Creating two new city centre parks and other pockets of green space;
  • Supporting major mixed-use regeneration opportunities, including new cultural spaces and the development of affordable housing.
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