Public inquiry to review Leeds Bradford Airport night flight rules

A public inquiry will assess Leeds Bradford Airport’s (LBA) appeals regarding night flight restrictions after Leeds City Council rejected two Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use or Development (CLEUD) applications and failed to determine a third. The applications sought clarification on existing permissions for older, noisier aircraft to operate at night.

LBA CEO Vincent Hodder stated that the inquiry focuses on interpreting planning conditions established nearly 30 years ago, not increasing night flights. He argued that the airport’s position aligns with the original intent of minimising noise impact while encouraging the use of quieter, modern aircraft.

The airport is investing over £200 million in improvements, aiming to create 5,500 jobs and contribute nearly £1 billion to the UK economy. It is also committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030.

The inquiry, led by an independent planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, will take place at Leeds Civic Hall from 11–14 March.

UK businesses urge government to fix outdated infrastructure

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging the UK government to address critical infrastructure issues to support economic growth. A new BCC report calls for road and rail capacity investment, regional transport projects, and improved grid connectivity. It also stresses the need for long-term policy stability and better planning capacity to restore business confidence, which was shaken by the cancellation of HS2’s later stages.

The report highlights widespread concerns among business leaders. Two-thirds (66%) feel their input is ignored in local infrastructure decisions, rising to 81% for national projects. Additionally, 62% say local bus and tram networks are inadequate, affecting workers’ commuting ability.

The BCC has launched an initiative to train and place 100 additional planners in local authorities to tackle planning delays. The report also urges the government to include business interests in the upcoming Infrastructure and Planning Bill to ensure a coordinated national strategy.

The BCC warns that uncertainty around major infrastructure projects hinders private sector investment and that reform is needed to create a stable environment for long-term economic development.

Finance For Enterprise appoints fund manager

South Yorkshire-based Finance For Enterprise (FFE) has strengthened its team with the appointment of experienced financial professional Michael Hydari as fund manager. Bringing a wealth of expertise in business finance, Michael joins FFE from UKSE, where he worked as an investment executive, helping businesses secure the funding they need to grow. Prior to that, he held various finance analyst roles at Specsavers while completing his CIMA accountancy qualification. In his new role as fund manager, Michael will be responsible for making credit decisions and managing FFE’s diverse range of funds, ensuring that SMEs across the region can access vital financial support to drive their businesses forward. Speaking about his appointment, Michael said: “I enjoy helping SMEs access funding and supporting their growth journeys. Finance For Enterprise is the perfect place for me to continue doing that, and I’m excited to be part of a team that makes such a positive impact on businesses.” Andrew Austwick, Managing Director of Finance For Enterprise, said: “We are delighted to welcome Michael to the team. His extensive experience in business finance and his passion for helping SMEs make him a fantastic addition to FFE. We are confident that he will play a key role in supporting businesses as they look to grow and thrive.”

Yorkshire politicians join efforts to save 130 jobs at dairy factory

Yorkshire politicians have joined GMB’s fight to save a dairy factory from closure. More than 130 jobs will be lost if Arla Foods UK goes ahead with its plan to close a facility in Settle and move production to the company’s site in Lockerbie, Scotland. GMB Union today met key stakeholders, including the MP for Skipton and Row Sir Julian Smith and the North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith. This broad-based coalition is determined to challenge Arla’s decision and explore all options to keep the site open. The union will meet company bosses on Thursday (13 March), while almost 200 people have a signed a petition to save the factory. Deanne Ferguson, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “GMB will work collaboratively to save the Settle Arla site and the 130 direct jobs – along with the many more at risk in the supply chain. “Workers and their families face a devastating impact, some have spent their entire careers at Arla, others moved here for their ‘forever jobs’. “Now their futures are uncertain. Some will be forced to relocate to find work, tearing them away from their homes and communities. “The loss of these jobs won’t just affect individuals; it will have a lasting economic and social impact on Settle. “That’s why we’re calling on the local community and all stakeholders to stand with us in this fight.”

40-flat development approved for former Scunthorpe car park

Outline planning permission has been granted for a 40-flat residential development on a former private car park in Dunstall Street, Scunthorpe. RGB & KC Woollin proposed the project, which will consist of a four-storey building with ten flats per floor and 20 on-site parking spaces.

The development includes 32 one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom flats, eight of which are designated as affordable housing—six of which will be rented. Approval is subject to a Section 106 agreement, which requires financial contributions towards local services. The developers will provide £29,666 for recreational improvements, including upgrades to football pitches, swimming facilities, and indoor bowling.

An additional £27,600 will go towards healthcare, with funding allocated to The Birches Medical Practice, The Oak Tree Medical Practice, and Oswald Road Medical Surgery. The agreement also includes a £13,000 payment to the council for managing on-site open spaces.

Cleckheaton-based accounting firm acquires London business

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Cleckheaton-based accounting and business advisory firm Shenward has acquired London-based accountants John Cumming Ross Limited (JCR) and its subsidiary Jaycee Comservices Limited.

The deal will see JCR rebrand to Shenward immediately, with all employees and directors remaining in their current roles. The acquisition is a strategic move for Shenward, aligning with its existing London-based client portfolio and network of partners, introducers, and referrers in and around the city. The firm has been scaling its operations since 2018, when its acquired Leeds-based practice Cox, Costello and Horne. This was followed by the launch of a specialist sports, media, and entertainment division in 2020 and the purchase of a new 8,000 sq ft headquarters in Cleckheaton in 2021. Shenward has grown on average by around 15% each year for the last five years. The acquisition of JCR will see Shenward effectively double in size both from a team and client perspective. Sherad Dewedi, managing partner at Shenward, said: “We set our hearts on London being the next city for us to establish a base given the growth we’ve witnessed in our client base and professional network there. “So, when we were introduced to JCR as a potential acquirer, it immediately felt like the right move for us. The founding members have built a fantastic business, and we are proud to bring the firm and its team under the Shenward group. “London is a global hub for financial services and a key driver of the UK economy, and so the demand for professional accounting advice and business support has never been greater. I can’t wait to see what opportunities this move presents for our team and our clients.” Dilip Unarket, director at John Cumming Ross Ltd, said: “Having met Sherad and the wider management team and learnt about their business, I am confident that acquisition will take JCR to new heights. “Right now, businesses are navigating complex financial and regulatory landscapes. With the extra backing of the Shenward team, our firm will be well-positioned to support the increasing needs of businesses.”

North Yorkshire-based Northern Energy Oil acquired in £8.3m deal

Cheshire-headquartered NWF Group, a specialist distributor of fuels, food and feeds across the UK, has acquired North Yorkshire-based Northern Energy Oil to grow its fuels distribution business.

Northern is a 42 million litre fuel distributor operating five sites in North Yorkshire, Northumbria and Lincolnshire, with a largely domestic customer base. The acquisition increases the group’s presence in the North-East of England, where NWF is currently underrepresented. Northern will increase NWF’s total fuel volumes by about six per cent on a pro forma basis.

The total consideration for Northern is £8.3 million.

In the 12 months to 31 August 2024, Northern generated revenue of £35.1 million, EBITDA of £0.6 million, profit before tax of £0.1 million and had period end net assets of £2.7 million. 

Chris Belsham, CEO of NWF Group, said: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of Northern, which represents an excellent example of NWF’s strategy at play to consolidate the highly fragmented fuels distribution market.

“This acquisition, our first since Geoff Boorman in 2023, demonstrates our intent to pursue attractive, earnings accretive transactions, consistent with our strong and established track record. Our pipeline of potential fuels acquisitions remains active, supported by our robust financial position. I would like to welcome our new Northern colleagues to the Group.”

Leeds-based outdoor media operator makes acquisition to expand UK portfolio

Leeds-based outdoor media operator, 75Media has acquired the majority of Mass Media’s large-format digital roadside billboard portfolio.

Thirty one sites have already been integrated into 75Media’s growing digital portfolio, meaning the company can deliver greater audience numbers to brands in a range of locations, including Wimbledon, Bristol, Southampton, Derby and Nottingham.

The newly-acquired portfolio reaches 19 million people per fortnight, which further increases 75Media’s reach and broadcast capabilities.

In addition to these 31 existing sites, 75Media will also operate a large proportion of Mass Media’s agreed future pipeline of D48 and large-format digital (LFD) sites, taking the total number to 49.

Paul Inman, CEO and Founder of 75Media, said: “This acquisition is a significant step forward for 75Media. It not only enhances our digital portfolio but also sends a clear message to the industry – we are expanding, we are investing, and we are committed to delivering high-quality roadside advertising opportunities.

“Mass Media has built an impressive estate of large-format digital sites, and we’re pleased to be bringing them into our network. With the addition of a large proportion of its future pipeline of D48s and LFDs, we’re accelerating our growth and giving advertisers even more ways to engage with real audiences in prime locations.”

Mass Lambresa, CEO of Mass Media, added: “Now is the right time for this transition. We’ve had great success with our large-format digital portfolio, and 75Media is well-placed to take these sites forward. As we move on to new projects in the OOH industry, focusing on emerging technologies and development, we’re confident that this move benefits both parties and ensures a strong future for these high-quality locations.”

Administrators appointed at North Yorkshire hotel

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The Feversham Arms Hotel in North Yorkshire has fallen into administration. The hotel, in Helmsley, continues to operate as normal under the control of the administrators, Oliver Collinge and James Sleight of PKF Littlejohn Advisory, and will shortly be put on the market. All hotel staff are being retained, with no redundancies planned. Mr Collinge confirmed that it is business as usual for the hotel and its guests: “All deposits paid and bookings already made, including for events, will be honoured and will go ahead unaffected and as planned. Similarly, any vouchers that people have for use at the venue can be used as normal. “The hotel will continue to take bookings for future events and sell vouchers as normal. These will be ringfenced to provide assurance to guests and customers. It’s very important to us that the hotel should continue to provide the high standards of service that guests are accustomed to.” He added: “The Feversham is a stunning hotel in a beautiful location. With 33 guest rooms, a luxury spa and a range of upscale dining experiences, we anticipate especially strong interest and we’re very confident of finding a buyer and securing the long-term future of the hotel and its team.”

Saltburn care home under new ownership after hygiene concerns

A Saltburn care home previously criticised for food hygiene issues is now under new ownership. Four Seasons Care Home, located off Marske Road, has been re-registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as Oaklands Manor Nursing Home.

Oaklands Manor Care Home Limited, the new owner, plans to upgrade the facility, which specialises in dementia care. The existing manager will stay on to provide continuity for staff. Redcar and Cleveland Council’s commissioning services are supporting the transition.

Under its previous operator, Key Healthcare Limited, the home was flagged for major food safety improvements in 2023. Inspectors found improper food storage, dirty equipment, and damaged kitchenware that could not be properly cleaned. Key Healthcare stated at the time that it had addressed all concerns.

The CQC last inspected the home in November 2022, rating it as ‘requires improvement’ overall but ‘good’ for caring. The regulator notes that past ratings apply only to the previous operator and that follow-up inspections will be conducted under the new ownership.

McDonald’s submits plans for Leeds drive-through

McDonald’s has submitted a planning application to Leeds City Council for a new drive-through restaurant on vacant land off Town Street in Stanningley, formerly part of a metal recycling plant.

The fast-food chain held a public consultation in December, engaging with local residents through a newsletter, a dedicated website, and a public meeting. In response to concerns about road safety, the proposed operating hours were reduced from 24 hours to 6:00 to 00:00 daily.

If approved, the project would create 130 construction jobs and employ 70 staff once operational. Plans include 34 parking spaces, cycle bays, and electric vehicle charging points. The site is located near a proposed 40-home residential development, and McDonald’s has coordinated with the housing developer on planning considerations.

Construction business and cathedral collaborate on stone-cutting facility

The Gelder Group has secured a new contract marking a special collaboration between the construction business and Lincoln Cathedral. The company will further expand at its headquarters, to build a stone-cutting facility, which will provide tailored stone to keep the city’s world-famous Cathedral in great shape for centuries to come. Gelder Group CEO Steve Gelder said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for both parties. The new centre will house modern equipment for future Cathedral projects, starting with the second stage of its Chapter house project. “The centre will boost efficiencies for the Cathedral and reduce costs because of its ability to cut pieces of stone to size, thereby reducing wastage to virtually zero. “Lincoln Cathedral is the only Cathedral to be listed in its entirety on English Heritage’s At Risk register, so we are really proud that the new centre will support this vital work and also the Cathedral’s drive to promote heritage skills.” Work on the new centre began in January and the facility will be available to the Cathedral by way of a 20-year lease. Lincoln Cathedral Director of Estates and Facilities Mark Wheater said that following phase two of the Chapter House project, future work is waiting in the wings. “We have an over-arching 50-year plan and then a five-year plan of works. Maintaining the building and promoting the heritage skills needed to conserve it are huge priorities for us. The new facility means we are able to cut pieces of stone to size, rather than buying pre-cut blocks and then trimming them down. “This will be much more cost-effective for us, with the ability to handle much larger pieces of stone. We will also be installing solar panels with battery storage to make the development as sustainable as possible.” The Very Reverend Dr Simon Jones, Dean of Lincoln said: “This partnership with Gelder Group to create a bespoke cutting facility is a vital step in our commitment to conserving the built heritage of Lincoln Cathedral in a financially and environmentally sustainable way. “The Cathedral has stood as a beacon on the skyline of Lincoln for almost 1,000 years, and one of our greatest daily challenges to ensure that it does so for many more centuries to come. “The cutting facility will also support our reputation as a centre of excellence for heritage skills by providing our craftspeople with the literal building blocks to continue to conserve this internationally important building for the future, and ensure that these vital skills continue to be shared with the next generation of stonemasons.”

Yorkshire law firm Gordons announces regulatory and property disputes lawyer appointments

Law firm Gordons has strengthened its regulatory and property disputes teams with the appointment of two experienced lawyers.

Rachel Little joins the firm’s regulatory practice from Lupton Fawcett where she advised clients on a range of issues including environmental, health and safety, licensing and trading standards.

Before becoming a lawyer, Rachel spent almost seven years working as an environmental, health and safety advisor in the chemicals industry, managing compliance and conducting incident investigations.

Joining the property disputes team from Hagen Wolf is Dominic Titherington who has experience of handling complex cases for residential and commercial clients.

His specialisms include boundary disputes, easements, adverse possessions alongside lease renewals and dilapidations.

Commenting on the new appointments, Gordons’ managing partner, Victoria Davey, said: “Our regulatory and property disputes practices are both performing well through additional instructions from existing clients and new client relationships being established.

“Rachel and Dominic are enhancing their teams’ service offerings and therefore giving our clients added value in their areas of expertise.

“They are highly-regarded, personable lawyers with a reputation for delivering commercially astute, practical advice.

“Those are attributes our clients value highly and we look forward to Rachel and Dominic playing their part in the continued expansion of our regulatory and property disputes services.”

Rotherham businesses and high streets to benefit from £3m funding

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More than £3 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is set to support businesses, events, and skills development in Rotherham, pending approval by the council’s cabinet on 17 March.

The funding aims to revitalise high streets by improving shopfronts, boost local events to increase visitor numbers, and provide training opportunities for residents. It will also support businesses through entrepreneurship programmes and help firms transition to low-carbon operations.

Key allocations include £945,000 for business support, £390,000 for shop unit grants and market improvements, and £444,000 for a skills programme focused on young people and basic training. The Children’s Capital of Culture festival will receive £200,000, with £275,000 allocated for event traineeships. The Rotherham Show and Bonfire Night will share £255,000.

Community support initiatives, including cost-of-living advice through the Open Arms project, will receive £359,000, while £86,000 is earmarked for a new multi-use games area. The package also includes investment in Rotherham’s markets and library development.

Battery storage project planned for Rotherham farmland

Harmony Energy has submitted plans for a battery energy storage facility in Kiveton Park, Rotherham, designed to store enough electricity to power 130,000 homes for two hours.

The 40 MW project will be built on low-grade agricultural land near the Kiveton Park substation. It is expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by over 5,500 tonnes annually and contribute more than £90,000 annually in business rates to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council. A £400,000 community fund will also be established over the project’s lifetime.

Following public consultation, the plans have been revised to minimise visual impact by incorporating green-coloured battery units and creating new habitats. They aim for a biodiversity net gain of over 35%.

Lincolnshire launches free paint recycling scheme to cut waste

Lincolnshire County Council has launched a new paint recycling initiative at Louth Household Waste Recycling Centre to reduce waste and encourage reuse. The scheme allows residents to donate unused paint, which is then made available for free to the community.

The initiative follows the success of a similar scheme in Grantham, which has prevented 1,000 litres of paint from being discarded since December 2024. According to government data, paint accounts for 71,500 tonnes of waste annually, costing local authorities £20.6 million to manage.

Councillor Daniel McNally, executive member for waste, highlighted that 55 million litres of usable paint are wasted in the UK each year. He encouraged residents to donate leftover paint, which could benefit other households and charities.

Bradford office building listed for sale after relocation plans

A seven-storey office building in Bradford city centre has been put on the market, weeks after plans emerged to convert it into residential flats.

Vanquis Banking Group, which occupies the property on Godwin Street, announced in December that it would relocate to a smaller office space next door by November. At the same time, a US-based developer proposed converting the building into more than 100 flats with two ground-floor business units.

The property is now listed as a “prime city centre office building with approval for residential conversion.” Built in 2010 as part of the £45 million Southgate development, it was initially a key part of Bradford’s regeneration efforts. Vanquis, formerly Provident, has occupied the building since its completion.

The asking price has not been publicly disclosed and is available only to potential buyers.

West Lindsey Council approves budget with expanded leisure investment

West Lindsey District Council has approved its 2025/26 budget, including a 2.98% increase in Council Tax and expanded capital investment in leisure and wellbeing. The budget, part of the Medium-Term Financial Plan, prioritises economic growth, local health services, and community development.

Planned investments include refurbishments at West Lindsey Leisure Centre and Market Rasen Leisure Centre, improved green spaces, upgraded swim and changing facilities, and a new indoor bowls area. The council also aims to enhance GP provision and expand grant funding for businesses in Gainsborough, alongside introducing two hours of free parking in the town to support local trade.

The council’s capital investment programme totals £13.8 million over the medium term, with £8.6 million allocated for 2025/26. Funding will come from grants, contributions, and council resources. The Governance and Audit Committee reviewed the financial plan before final approval. More details on the capital expansion will be released following the June Corporate Policy and Resources Committee meeting.

Scarborough to receive £20m investment under new neighbourhood plan

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Scarborough has been allocated nearly £20 million in government funding as part of the newly announced Plan for Neighbourhoods. This plan aims to support regeneration efforts across 75 selected communities over the next decade.

The initiative will establish neighbourhood boards in each area, bringing together residents and businesses to decide how to allocate funds. Options include high street improvements, pavement repairs, community grocers, and co-operatives.

Nine towns and cities in Yorkshire and Humber, including Barnsley, Doncaster, and Rotherham, will share £180 million from the national £1.5 billion programme. The funding will be available in April, with investment delivery beginning in 2026.

The government said selection criteria included levels of deprivation and healthy life expectancy.

Manchester’s MCR Group acquires Monks Cross office development

Manchester-based MCR Group has acquired the 69,351 sq ft Moorside office development in Monks Cross in York for an undisclosed sum. The Grade A, two-storey site houses tenants including Aviva, Garbutt & Elliott, Rollits Solicitors, Portakabin, and Shepherd Group.

MCR plans to work closely with the existing asset management team to ensure a smooth transition and engage with tenants to shape the site’s future. The company views the acquisition as a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the regional office market, with other projects in Bridlington and surrounding areas.

York is seen as a key commercial hub in Yorkshire, attracting businesses looking to establish headquarters. MCR aims to solidify Moorside’s position as a prime business location while focusing on long-term development plans.