The task force, which met for the first time this month, has also stated that working with Government on a meaningful devolution deal for the county will be a priority.
The North Yorkshire Rural Task Force, which is chaired by Richard Flinton, our chief executive, includes officers from the county and district councils, North Yorkshire’s two national parks, agricultural colleges, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, National Farmers Union, Community First Yorkshire and the York and North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership.
It was established to take forward the hard-hitting actions and recommendations of the North Yorkshire Rural Commission as set out in its final report “Rural North Yorkshire: the way forward”.
Up to 85 per cent of North Yorkshire is classed as ‘super sparse’. This presents a set of key challenges. The Rural Commission, the first of its kind nationally, was established as an independent body in autumn 2019 to re-examine the evidence base and draw conclusions and recommendations, which would help these most rural communities, address the challenges and grow and prosper.
The Commission met twenty times, taking evidence from over seventy participants and visiting rural communities.
The aim was to bring about the levelling up of rural communities and to transform the region into a rural powerhouse. Commissioners believed their recommendations, if taken forward, would revitalise rural life, address its key challenges, bring back a missing generation of young people and create a vibrant future based around a state-of-the-art green economy.
The Rural Task Force will take a lead on the key themes of the economy, energy, digital, farming, schools, housing and transport, to ensure that levelling up progress is made.
While it acknowledges that these are issues many agencies across the county are already working on, it believes there is now an opportunity to refocus and to come together to drive forward priorities.
Richard Flinton said: “The Rural Commission recommendations are a timely and helpful challenge to us as partners and we have identified leads in the areas the Commissioners set out. Our job now is to bring about positive actions that can help rural communities in the county to grow and prosper.
“Much of the work the task force undertakes will be the bread and butter of the new unitary council. It will provide strong foundations for work with partners and with Government.”
The task force also recognises that progress is already being made in some areas set out by the Rural Commission.
For example, Yorbus, the demand responsive rural bus service pilot which aims to plug the gaps between the public transport needs of rural residents and existing scheduled services, is proving highly successful and is now being expanded.
North Yorkshire’s successful bid to the Government’s Community Renewal Fund, which secured over £760,000 for plans aimed at decarbonising the county’s energy system is also helping North Yorkshire’s ambitions to thrive economically as England’s first carbon-negative region.
“The Rural Commission set us a series of challenges and we wish to thank them for all their hard work on this and for their insight,” said Richard Flinton.
“Our job is now to move these forward so that North Yorkshire is at the forefront of the rural levelling up agenda. We will work with partners and Government on this. The work of the task force will step up our ability to influence and lobby on the key issues affecting the future sustainability and prosperity of our communities.”
The Task Force, which will meet next February, aims to meet quarterly so that members can share progress on the actions they are taking in shaping and meeting the Rural Commission recommendations. They will support, advise and encourage each other in this.
The Task Force will report on progress with stakeholders and the County Council Executive in a year’s time.
24-acres of logistics development land sold in Barnsley for £11.6m
Harworth Group has completed the sale of a 24-acre plot at its Gateway 36 logistics site in Barnsley, Yorkshire, to Firethorn Barnsley Limited for £11.6 million.
Firethorn will develop a BREEAM ‘excellent’ rated, 340,000 ft logistics facility at the plot, which forms part of the latest phase of development at Harworth’s Gateway 36 project.
Harworth received a resolution to grant planning consent for Phases 2 and 3 of its Gateway 36 development from Barnsley Council in 2020, which, in its entirety, will comprise a total of 1.1 million sq ft of new logistics and manufacturing space across 95 acres of land. The scheme is expected to support the delivery of up to 2,500 jobs in Yorkshire.
This sale builds on the success of Phase one of Gateway 36, which comprised the direct development by Harworth of c. 145,300 sq ft of industrial and logistics space across four units, which were sold to Mayfair Capital in 2018. Existing occupiers on the site include Esco, Talurit, Environment Agency and Car Supermarket.
Gateway 36 is supported by £3.1 million of funding from Sheffield City Region, with all of the facility now drawn down contributing to the infrastructure that has opened up development of the site. Harworth intends to begin its next phase of direct development at the site in 2022.
Andrew Blackshaw, Chief Operating Officer, Harworth Group plc, said: “This sale to Firethorn is part of a coordinated strategy to realise our vision for Gateway 36 as a major hub for both large and small footprint logistics and manufacturing in Yorkshire. Since acquiring the site, Harworth has transformed the former Rockingham Colliery into a new high-quality development, which benefits from a position adjacent to Junction 36 of the M1.
“This transaction also demonstrates the current market demand for strategically located sites, which are in short supply in the region. Together with the recent sale of our Antsy strategic land site, the proceeds will be recycled into our ongoing development pipeline as well as growing our landbank as we deliver on our strategy to double the size of the business over the next five to seven years.”
Dan Green, Associate Director, Firethorn Trust, said: “Our strategic approach at Firethorn is to identify and unlock the potential of strong development sites across the UK, to meet the growing need for sustainable, flexible and high-quality logistics accommodation. We are delighted to add this site at Gateway 36 to our logistics portfolio, and with the ever-increasing demand for industrial schemes in Yorkshire, we look forward to delivering our plans at pace.”
Harworth was advised by Knight Frank and Gent Visick.
Lincolnshire local a winner at Natwest Everywoman Awards
Hannah Dale, founder of Wrendale Designs, from Brigg, Lincolnshire has been announced as a winner at the 2021 NatWest Everywoman Awards.
The awards celebrated the UK’s most inspiring female entrepreneurs, recognising their outstanding achievements during one of the most challenging periods for businesses in living memory.
Bringing together some of the UK’s most successful business owners, the ceremony featured the stories of many extraordinary women who, against the odds, have brought business concepts to reality, creating jobs, opportunities and global brands.
This year’s winners span multiple sectors including food, fashion, drinks, health, beauty, energy, IT and service industries. All are united in one common purpose – to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and to leave the world a better place than they found it.
Hannah is the winner in the Athena category, which is awarded to the most inspirational woman running a business trading from 6 to 9 years.
Hannah had a successful City career until the financial crash of 2008 left her facing redundancy. Returning to contemplate her options at the family farm, she revived her hobby of painting animals and country scenes.
She initially developed a small range of greetings cards and took to local gift shops to gauge interest. The response was encouraging and persuaded Hannah to expand into giftware and homeware.
From a standing start 10 years ago, Hannah has built Wrendale into an international brand turning over £8 million annually and providing jobs for over 60 employees. Covid threatened to derail the business given its wholesale model, but by supporting her retailers with strong content and digital assets, she helped them to pivot their businesses online and sales rebounded with popular lines including a motivational quote box, journals and notelets.
Speaking about the winners, Maxine Benson MBE, co-founder at everywoman, said: “For nearly two decades these awards have provided a platform to share the stories of hundreds of entrepreneurs, encouraging, emboldening and empowering other women to follow suit.
“Against a backdrop of Covid, these women have shown how innovation and enterprise have helped their businesses to thrive under extraordinary trading conditions. We hope their experiences will go onto inspire others and provide the motivation and inspiration that will be the backbone of the UK’s economic recovery.”
Boost Drinks appoints sales director following milestone year
Leading functional drinks brand, Boost Drinks, has expanded its senior team with the appointment of Sales Director, Colin Falconer, to lead the business through the next stage in its journey.
Falconer will begin his new role on 4th January 2022 and brings with him a wealth of sales and leadership experience across multiple channels from his time at Mars, 2 Sisters and most notably Britvic Soft Drinks.
In his 15 years at Britvic, Falconer’s role included Convenience Channel Director and his invaluable industry knowledge and relationships coupled with his passion, ambition and strategic skills make him the ideal person to join the Boost leadership team to drive forward its growth plans.
Boost celebrated its 20th anniversary during 2021, and the appointment of Falconer comes at a pivotal moment in the company’s history. The business has plans to further expand its distribution within the UK and Irish convenience and foodservice channels with its growing functional drinks portfolio as well as building its international footprint in overseas markets.
Founder and CEO, Simon Gray, said: “Boost has always been exciting and ambitious, and with our recent partnership to distribute Rio, the successful launch of our coffee and the changing customer landscape ahead of us, we feel that this is a great moment for Colin to come on board.
“We’re looking forward to Colin joining at a significant moment in our business history and see him as a key catalyst in our future success.
Falconer commented: “I’ve long admired the Boost Drinks story and approach, and in particular, the strong relationships they’ve built with the wholesale trade and convenience retailers as well as the growing consumer engagement in recent years
“I have a huge passion for soft drinks and am thrilled to be joining Boost at a time of significant opportunity, and really look forward to being part of the leadership team and working with the full business to take full advantage of all the exciting opportunities open to us”.
Council leader welcomes Government announcement for £1bn fund to support hospitality sector
A new £1bn fund to help hospitality businesses through tough trading conditions has been announced by Government.
North Lincolnshire Council’s leader Rob Waltham has welcomed the measures, announced by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak MP, which will see businesses access up to £6,000.
Cllr Waltham said: “There are many positive things happening across the economy in North Lincolnshire with a record number of jobs being created.
“However, we do understand there are some sectors which face additional challenges and pressures not least because of the impact of Covid-19. This has been recognised nationally and I welcome this latest intervention to support businesses through difficult trading.
“We have had more than £200m from Government through the pandemic and that support continues now.”
Sunak set out measures to help England’s hospitality sector, unveiling the £1bn fund which will include cash grants of up to £6,000 per premises for each eligible firm.
Additional support will be made available for certain firms with the cost of sick pay for Covid-related absences and an extra £30m will be released to help theatres and museums.
Further details for how business can apply will be released in the coming days.
The cash has been welcomed elsewhere too. Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, told the BBC her organisation welcomed the “unprecedented support” announced by Mr Sunak.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak said: “We recognise that the spread of the Omicron variant means businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors are facing huge uncertainty, at a crucial time.
“So, we’re stepping in with £1 billion of support, including a new grant scheme, the reintroduction of the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme and further funding released through the Culture Recovery Fund.
“Ultimately the best thing we can do to support businesses is to get the virus under control, so I urge everyone to Get Boosted Now.”
Further details are available here
Over 180 new homes in 2021
North Lincolnshire housing provider Ongo has built a total of 78 homes across the region for affordable rent, shared ownership, rent to buy and outright sale this year, along with acquiring 111 properties in Lincoln.
This is part of their plan to increase our housing stock each year, to support ending the national housing crisis and create safe and thriving communities.
Myos House, Ongo’s dementia care scheme, was just one of the developments completing this year. It’s made up of 25 two-bedroom apartments and specially designed communal spaces for residents to socialise and relax.
Sharon Ross, a family member whose parent lives there said: “I think this a fantastic, lovely and peaceful place Ongo has created.
“It’s going to help families as those with dementia will be able to experience activities, mix with others and have people who they can relate to. The research Ongo has done is fantastic and they have made the scheme look beautiful.”
A further 19 two, three and four-bedroom homes handed over on Froddingham Road in Scunthorpe for affordable rent. They are located in Scunthorpe’s town centre so are close to shops, schools, travel links and amenities.
Daniel Richardson moved into his new home with partner Sarah and their nine-month old daughter in May. When asked about his new home he said: “It’s a great opportunity for us – not only is it spacious and has a nice garden to sit and play in, but it’s very close to where I work and we have family support nearby.
“It didn’t take us long to settle in, it’s absolutely fantastic being here and having caring neighbours has been a big plus point.”
Completing were also six homes for sale in Corringham, two homes at Rochdale Mews for rent to buy and one at Orangeleaf Way, Barton upon Humber for shared ownership.
Further sites included nine homes at Maple Close, Kirton in Lindsey, eight homes at Sycamore Court, Scunthorpe, six homes at Northolme View, Gainsborough, one at Wilson’s Close, and one at Cottage Beck Road, Scunthorpe. All were for affordable rent.
Along with building, in September this yea,r Ongo announced our purchase of 111 homes on an estate in the centre of Lincoln, to join their affordable rent, shared ownership and leaseholder tenants.
Martin Phillips, Development Project Manager here at Ongo said: “Over 180 new homes is just fantastic. That’s 180 families that have a safe and lovely place to live, so I couldn’t be prouder of all we have achieved this year.
“Of course our aim is to build hundreds of homes each year, so we can’t wait for some more great developments to be handed over the next 12 months. These will include more around Scunthorpe, Gainsborough and Doncaster too.”
To find out more about Ongo’s homes and new developments, visit www.ongo.co.uk
Audience Collective bolsters digital offering with acquisition of Boxharry
Audience Collective, the insight-driven group of specialist agencies, which has headquarters in Leeds, has acquired digital transformation agency, Boxharry to meet increasing client demand.
Boxharry designs, builds, upgrades and supports tech platforms to unleash the potential of existing digital infrastructures.
The Brighton-based digital specialist is the eighth independent agency to join the UK collective, which now includes over 190 experts across the UK and Ireland – from PR and content specialist, The Lucre Group, to brand communications agency, Ponderosa, as well as media strategy specialist Crunch, and market research and insight agency, Spark.
Steve Henry, group CEO at The Audience Collective, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Boxharry into Audience Collective. As we continue to expand our breadth of knowledge and expertise, their talented teams’ capabilities allow us to dive deeper into the digital transformation world, which is an area of great challenge for all businesses within the UK at present. Audience Collective is going from strength to strength and this year we have set the foundations for an incredibly exciting 2022.”
Simon Brooks, Managing Director at Boxharry, added: “For almost 20 years we have been creating digital products by hand, using the latest technology for clients all around the world. Our ethos of creating products with the utmost precision and care has allowed us to develop an outstanding portfolio of clients around the world – including The AA, Carers UK and LeasePlan.
“Joining Audience Collective will allow us to further expand our client base and gain support from other teams in the Collective. We are so excited to be onboard and take the next step in our future.”
Richard Midgley, group strategy director at The Audience Collective, stated: “The addition of Boxharry is a strategic acquisition; the agency’s expertise really strengthens Audience Collective’s specialisms. Their .Net development deepens our capabilities in the areas of systems integration and implementation of CRM systems such as Salesforce, HubSpot and Dimensions, which will be beneficial for both the Collective and our clients. Many businesses are interested in integrating their technology platforms, so Boxharry will be an integral component in Audience Collective’s future success.”
Mid Yorkshire Chamber welcomes hospitality support measures as Omicron surges
The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce welcomes today’s announcements of a £1 billion support package for the hospitality and leisure industry, as Covid-19 cases continue to surge.
In recent weeks, reports of cancellations across hospitality and leisure firms were rife, leading many to worry that no action was being taken to support these struggling businesses.
Martin Hathaway, managing director of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am pleased with today’s announcement of further support for these industries, which are some of the hardest hit by the various measures that have been in place throughout the pandemic.
“The festive season is often the most profitable for these businesses, and will sustain many throughout the year.
“But, with reports of increased cancellations following 18 months of struggles, we were growing concerned that nothing was being done by Government.
“While many customers may see cancelling a booking as a small measure they can take to limit their contact and reduce the risk of exposure to the virus, to a business this is digging them further into a hole that they may not be able to get out of.
“I completely understand the call for the public to follow Government advice and, to protect themselves as best they can, however, I am a firm believer that the Government’s available support for businesses should go hand in hand with the advice they are giving to the general public.
“We must remember that these firms are still trying to recover from the initial Covid lockdowns, and that some have only recently been able to reopen.”
The Chancellor today announced £1 billion of new support for business, including up to £6,000 in grants for hospitality and leisure businesses, the reintroduction of the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme, as well as further funding available via the Culture Recovery Fund.
YFM makes £8m follow-on investment in DSP-Explorer
One of the UK’s largest independent Oracle partners, DSP-Explorer, a database and cloud managed services provider, has received an additional £8m of investment from YFM Equity Partners (YFM). The investment, made by the YFM-managed YFM Equity Partners Buyout II LP fund, will enable the business to continue its organic and acquisitive growth plans.
With offices in Leeds, London, Nottingham and Basingstoke, DSP-Explorer was founded in 1999 and has grown turnover to £23m, employing nearly 100 people nationally. With an established reputation as a trusted technology partner and Oracle expert, DSP-Explorer now boasts multi-cloud cloud capabilities as a Microsoft Gold Partner and Google Cloud Partner.
YFM’s investment in DSP-Explorer will give the business further firepower to acquire complementary businesses, having successfully acquired Explorer UK in July 2020, a leading Oracle database consultancy and development partner.
Since Leeds-headquartered YFM backed the management buyout of the business in 2018, led by Simon Goodenough, revenues and profits have both grown by over 300%, with a growing recurring revenue base and strong demand from enterprise customers.
Simon Goodenough, CEO of DSP-Explorer, said: “We have seen consistently strong growth since YFM’s initial investment, with their funding enabling us to take advantage of market opportunities as well as us benefitting from the team’s strategic insight. Together, we have developed an ambitious plan to scale the business, both in the UK and abroad, through both organic and acquisitive growth, as the sector continues to expand post-pandemic.
“This latest support is a further demonstration of YFM’s belief in our business and our potential – we are looking forward to embarking on the next phase of our growth plan, delivering on our Oracle Anywhere and Any Database, Any Cloud initiatives, with a supportive partner at our side.”
Roshan Puri, investment director at YFM, says: “DSP is a leader in its field and its acquisition of Explorer last year marked another key milestone with the creation of a combined group with the potential to dominate the UK enterprise database managed services sector.
“With its leading reputation and high quality team, DSP-Explorer will provide an attractive partner for complementary acquisitions and ambitious teams seeking to join a high growth multi-cloud managed services business. We are proud to be continuing our work alongside the team as they pursue their vision for the business.”
This latest investment in DSP is the second from YFM’s Buyout Fund II in recent weeks, following its backing of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software specialist Cooper Software in November.
The YFM investment team comprised Roshan Puri, Ben Pitt and Ian Waterfield. Corporate finance advice was provided by BDO; financial due diligence by Azets; legal advice by Gateley and Browne Jacobson; organisational review by Stratton HR; and tax advice by Claritas.
New eco-friendly housing development proposed for Knottingley
Plans to create an eco-friendly housing development and two new retail units on former industrial land in Knottingley have been welcomed by Wakefield Council.
The proposed scheme would see 175 energy efficient new homes built on a former quarry on cleaned up land that would also be redeveloped to include a large ecological area to encourage wildlife, with ponds to support eco diversity.
By using solar panels to generate electricity the scheme promises that homes would have a 20 per cent lower level of carbon emissions.
Others benefits include attracting investment and supporting regeneration in and around Knottingley as outlined in the new Knottingley & Ferrybridge masterplan.
The development, to be known as Jackson’s Landing after the former glass factory that was based there, will provide a large range of family homes.
The project is being supported by the Brownfield Housing Fund initiative and plans are being progressed through West Yorkshire Combined Authority, which has recently agreed for the project to move forward to the business case stage.
Cllr Darren Byford, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Property, said: “We welcome this new initiative that would allow new energy efficient homes to be developed in Knottingley as this will support regeneration that will benefit residents, with the prospect of new jobs, and benefit both the local and wider district economy.”
The development is by Castleford-based Noble Homes and Chris Vause, Technical Manager, said: “As we celebrate our 60th year, we plan to provide 175 new homes in Knottingley and would like to thank the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for their assistance through the Brownfield Housing Fund process.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Place, Regeneration and Planning Committee, said: “This is great example of how the brownfield housing fund can support the development of eco-friendly projects.
“This is vitally important as we work together to tackle the climate emergency and provide more homes for a range of people. Both are part of the Mayor’s pledges to West Yorkshire.
“Work on Jackson’s Landing is likely to begin next year, and the development will also support the regeneration of the Knottingley and Ferrybridge area.”
Plans approved for rugby club’s major redevelopment
Ambitious plans for the redevelopment of Belle Vue stadium have been approved by Wakefield Council, delivering a brand new 2,507 seated capacity East Stand built to Super League standards and community facilities.
The plans for Wakefield Trinity R.L.F.C will also deliver a resurfaced pitch, upgraded floodlights, new meeting rooms, offices, a café and community use fitness facilities.
The planning application was prepared and submitted by Pegasus Group on behalf of Spirit of 1873 Ltd who own the ground. Pegasus Group provided planning, EIA and economic services, including Socio-Economics and Health Impact Assessments.
The approved plans will see the demolition of the existing east stand, and its replacement with a 2-storey stand which, as well as providing 2,507 seats, will include a range of new internal spaces for both club and community use.
The redeveloped stand will maintain the existing access arrangements from Doncaster Road.
Chris Calvert, from Pegasus Group, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Council backed this ambitious vision for the future of Wakefield Trinity R.L.F.C and that we have secured planning permission on behalf of Spirit of 1873 Ltd.
“Achieving sustainable development requires the planning system to have three overriding objectives: an economic objective, a social objective, and an environmental objective.
“The proposed development is set to boast significant socio-economic benefits during both the construction and operational phases of the development. Wakefield Trinity R.L.F.C has been an incredibly important part of the community and its history and the proposed development deepens that sense of place and identity further.
“Importantly, it promotes well-being, both physical as well as mental health and this redevelopment will bring about the ability for increased participation in physical activity, either by inspiring some to become more active having followed elite sport, or to simply come and use the facilities that are proposed.”
The benefits generated by the scheme include:
- An estimated 100 on-site jobs supported during the construction phase, with a further 166 supported in the wider supply chain.
- An estimated contribution to economic output (gross value added) of £14million by the construction phase.
- Safeguarding 12 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs on-site, with an additional 2 permanent FTEs likely to be created once the Proposed Development is built and operational.
- Providing new facilities, including a sports pitch and gym, that can be accessed by local residents. Increasing physical participation in Wakefield is a major issue, with inactivity costing the District an estimated £6.4million per annum.
Cybersecurity specialist targets US market after seven-figure investment
A cybersecurity specialist that provides services for some of the UK’s biggest companies has raised a seven-figure sum from NPIF – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.
The funding will allow Talion to further expand its business in the UK and target new customers in the US.
Talion was launched by BAE Systems in 2012 to help protect the Olympic Games in London from ‘nation state’ cyber attacks. Originally known as Sy4 Security, it became a standalone business in April 2020 when industry veteran Mike Brown, the current CEO, and BAE Systems’ head of security Keven Knight, the COO, led a management buy-out.
The company now employs over 90 staff at its security operations centre in Leeds and its satellites in Farnborough and Kuala Lumpur. It is regarded as one of the UK’s leading managed security service providers (MSSPs) and has a blue-chip client base.
Talion offers a range of services including monitoring, triage, remediation and threat assessment vulnerability management. It has also pioneered an innovative ‘hybrid’ approach, which enables companies to retain greater control over their cybersecurity by having their in-house staff work alongside Talion experts within a shared ‘eco-system’.
The worldwide cost of cybercrime stood at over $1 trillion in 2020, equivalent to 1% of global GDP. With figures expected to reach $10 trillion in 2025, Talion is aiming to service increasing demand.
Mike Brown, CEO of Talion, says: “The financial cost of cybercrime is growing at an alarming rate – the bad guys are winning. Companies can no longer protect themselves using an individualistic approach. They need to become part of a cybersecurity ecosystem with the ethos of ‘Benefit one, benefit all’. Talion provides a platform to help companies build and manage their ecosystem. The funding will help to accelerate its growth and achieve our goals.”
Will Schaffer, Investment Director with Mercia, adds: “Talion’s experienced team puts the company in a strong position and its new hybrid approach will further differentiate it in the market. The business has gone from strength to strength since becoming independent at the start of the pandemic. This initial funding round will help build on its success and make inroads into the huge US market in line with its ambition to become a global player.”
2022 Business Predictions: David Armitage, chairman of York Handmade Brick
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to David Armitage, chairman of York Handmade Brick, the independent brickmaker in the north of England.
These are challenging times but I am confident we can maintain the progress we made this year, despite Covid-19 and the uncertainly caused by Brexit, in 2022. We are flourishing in commercial property and education sectors, whilst residential housing, which has been our staple for a number of years, remains strong. In these testing times, it is vital to spread our work across as many different markets as possible.
It is also important to be optimistic. I have been in the brick industry for many years and have seen the peaks and troughs. The signs are that the economy is bouncing back and, when it does, I trust that the housing, construction and manufacturing sectors will be in the vanguard of the recovery. Despite rising inflation, which I hope is temporary, it is important to keep interest rates low.
High-profile contracts that we have either started or completed during the past 12 months include Mount Row, a mixed-use development in the heart of Mayfair; a prestigious residential housing development at Kings Cross; and a new library of Magdalene College, Cambridge.
Looking ahead more generally, it is encouraging to report that brick remains the building material of choice for many architects and specifiers across the UK. Provided the economy doesn’t implode, we anticipate a very successful and enjoyable 2022. We particularly value the contacts we have built up in the last 33 years with architects, planners, self-builders and developers. We look forward to continuing those relationships in the years to come.
Business confidence edges up in Yorkshire ahead of Omicron impact
Business confidence in Yorkshire rose four points during December to 35%, 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 two points at 26%. However, when taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up nine points to 43%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 35%.
The Business Barometer, which questions 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
The survey captured responses between 26th November and 10th December. The first two cases of Omicron in the UK were confirmed on 27th November and nations began announcing the reintroduction of restrictions in the week commencing 6th December.
A net balance of 37% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up seven points on last month.
Overall UK business confidence was unchanged from November’s reading at 40%. While confidence remained above the long-term average (28%), during the second week of sampling when the Omicron variant emerged, confidence fell to 32%.
Despite potential challenges from the new Covid-19 variant on the horizon, firms remained positive about their future trading prospects, up four points month-on-month to 43%. The net balance of businesses planning to create new jobs also increased by three points to 33%. Optimism in the economy overall remained positive at 38%, down just three points on November’s result.
Every UK nation and region maintained a positive overall confidence reading in the December barometer, with four reporting a higher reading than last month. Alongside Yorkshire, the North East (up 13 points to 58%), North West (up 14 points to 48%) and East of England (up 12 points to 50%) all had stronger confidence readings month-on-month, with the North East and London (57%) the most optimistic overall.
Steve Harris, regional director for Yorkshire at Lloyds Bank, said: “The resilience of businesses across Yorkshire is clear from this month’s figures. Despite ongoing uncertainty caused by Omicron and wider challenges in the economy, such as trade disruption and rising costs, many firms said they were optimistic about the future.
“The coming weeks will be difficult to navigate for some, especially those in our region’s hospitality and leisure industries, but whatever the future brings we remain committed to supporting the region’s businesses as they look ahead to 2022.”
In the industry sectors, construction recovered to 39% from November’s seven-month low of 28%, following a minor easing in supply-chain disruptions. Despite a slight fall in confidence in manufacturing to 40%, trading prospects in the sector have remained higher than the whole economy throughout this year.
There were also small declines for retail (43%) and services (39%) ahead of the festive period. There have been some marked differences in these sectors in recent months, with notable strengths in the professional services sector (including finance) and in IT/communications. However, the current three-month average sentiment among hospitality firms is at its lowest level (24%) since the first quarter of the year (4%). This has been fuelled by a significant monthly drop of 48 points to 6% between November and December.
Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It is a challenging end to 2021 as businesses are now having to adapt to the new Omicron variant and resultant restrictions across the UK. Nevertheless, business confidence remains resilient and above the long-term average due to a rise in trading prospects, while pay and price expectations continue to be elevated.
“Businesses face into a number of headwinds and challenging trading conditions, including higher interest rates, as we move into 2022, but many remain resilient and hopeful that acute downside risks are not realised.”
Seven-figure cash injection unlocks expansion for hydraulic manufacturer
A Huddersfield manufacturer is on track for double-digit growth after kickstarting a multi-million-pound expansion plan.
Hystat, founded in 1976, produces hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, accumulators and actuators. Primarily supplying to the oil and gas sector, it also provides parts to organisations across the renewables, nuclear, civil engineering and rail industries, and is actively supporting its oil and gas customers in their transition to greener energy alternatives.
Last year, the business acquired Washington-based Cylinder Service Centre (CSC), which helped to broaden the firm’s offering with its specialisms in hydraulic cylinder repair.
Since the buy-out, Hystat has enjoyed rapid growth, with turnover on track to increase 60% from £7.5million to £12million year-on-year. It has also boosted headcount from 96 to 110 across its Huddersfield and Washington sites.
And now, with the support of a £1.2million loan from Lloyds Bank, Hystat is preparing to purchase CSC’s currently rented premises, helping to pave the way for further expansion at the site, and bring key operations, such as boring and holing services, in-house.
Simon Wadsworth, Managing Director at Hystat, said: “Our products are playing an increasingly critical role in supporting the transition to green and renewable energy sources, meaning it’s important that we continue exploring opportunities to expand and diversify our offering.
“Through this purchase, and through the additional financial firepower it lends us, we can ramp up activity across key services and significantly grow our output, helping us to support engineering best practice across a growing customer base.”
Lloyds Bank has supported Hystat for more than two decades, previously providing hire purchase facilities to enable investment in new tooling and equipment.
Allie Butterworth, relationship director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Simon and his team have built Hystat into the UK’s leading manufacturer of hydraulic equipment. Growing steadily over the years, the business is now ideally placed to consolidate its market share, with its investment allowing it to free up additional cashflow and focus on expanding organically.
“We look forward to continuing to back the team’s ambitions in this next phase of their journey.”
New digital high streets programme to boost local shopping launches across West Lindsey district
A new programme to attract shoppers back to the High Street by harnessing digital technology has been launched in West Lindsey.
The initiative, Local Rewards, a collaboration between West Lindsey District Council and social media specialists, Maybe* Tech – aims to help businesses across the council area recover from the impact of COVID-19, by giving them the support they need to reach more customers and make more sales.
The programme will go live featuring 4,400 businesses from across the West Lindsey district and will offer free training and tools to companies looking to take part.
Leader of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr Owen Bierley urged businesses to sign up for the free support.
He said: “We are delighted to have brought Maybe Tech on board for the next 12 months to support our businesses. The impact of Covid 19 changed the way businesses operate and following discussions with local businesses we recognised that we needed to offer additional support. Maybe Tech has proved to be successful in other areas and we want our businesses to benefit too.”
Local Rewards (https://www.localrewards.chat/) allows businesses to communicate with, and reward shoppers when they hit the High Streets and has been created with the intention of ‘levelling the playing field’ through enhanced digital skills, enabling small businesses to have access to the same level of tools and know-how as big businesses with bigger budgets. Businesses can also cross-promote and support their High Street neighbours to create an online network of connected traders.
The Local Rewards programme already features over 6,900 businesses from across the region, data within the technology shows that in West Lindsey around 900 High Street businesses use social media.
Of those retailers on social media around 286 (31 per cent) are active, posting most days. Maybe* Tech insights suggest that the national average within a centre for regular posting stands at around 25 per cent, making West Lindsey businesses among the most active on social media, in the country.
Additional research conducted by Maybe* Tech suggests around 66% of consumers spend three hours per day using social media.
Nicola Brooksbank, CEO and founder of Nice & Naughty Cafe Bistro, in Market Rasen says:
“Since the pandemic I have noticed an increase in businesses working together for the greater good of the high street. We use each other’s shops as much as possible and promote each other. Rather than competition, we realise that our customers are one and the same, so the more we promote each other, the more we all see our takings double.
Social media is very important to my business. Not every like returns a sale, but the more you have the more sales you will get. We have doubled both our Instagram and Facebook followers since the pandemic, through targeted posts. We are also doing videos with the aim that we create a large following sharing our beliefs in community, healthy eating, and home-cooked food. This includes recipes and creating a story people can get behind and want to follow. Social media is a positive that can only be good for us all, when used correctly and in a targeted way.”
“I’m looking forward to signing up to the programme and hope others will too.”
The technology enables shoppers to see businesses near them, view and engage with their social media content and shop with them via Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.
In addition, for every pound a shopper spends “in store” with a participating business they earn a point which can be used to claim rewards offered by local businesses across the county.
Every business that signs up to manage their listing on the Local Rewards High Street Guide will also have access to an extensive range of social media tools and training provided by Maybe* Tech.
Polly Barnfield OBE, CEO of Maybe* Tech said: “Around two thirds of shoppers regularly look online for inspiration and the Local Rewards programme groups all social media content by location to encourage people to browse their local high street and then rewards them for their local spend. High streets need infrastructure that until now has only been available for online businesses and this programme will help local businesses level the playing field,” adds Barnfield.
“They need to communicate with shoppers in real-time and be able to showcase what’s available. In order to compete, High Street businesses need to up their digital game, promote their physical stores and collaborate. Our platforms help them collectively to do that and we are delighted to be working with businesses across every high street in the West Lindsey district
High Street businesses and shoppers can access the Local Rewards programme online at https://www.localrewards.chat/ and can sign up to reap the benefits via Messenger or WhatsApp.
The platform has been developed to provide High Street businesses across all sectors, with access to social media, the tools and training to increase their customer base and drive sales. The Maybe* platform also provides practical suggestions and easy to use tools allowing organisations to connect with their audience, improve their return on investment and understand how to stay ahead of their competition.
The announcement comes just days after West Lindsey District Council has approved a new Economic Recovery Plan. Encouraging investment, supporting businesses, developing growth and employment opportunities and harnessing the potential of green recovery are the underpinning principles of the Council’s recovery strategy.
Hull’s transformative £96m Albion Square development approved by Hull City Council’s Cabinet
The £96m Albion Square development has been approved by Hull City Council’s Cabinet.
The large development in Hull city centre will feature a mixture of residential, office and retail space, as well as a large urban park.
The eco-friendly and environmentally responsible project will include solar panels, EV charging points and a bike hub where cyclists will be able to store bikes.
Hull’s iconic Three Ships Mural will remain and be incorporated into the new development.
Demolition of the site will begin in early 2022 with construction starting in 2023. The transformative project is set to be completed in 2026.
Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council, said: “Albion Square is a key component in the city’s regeneration.
“The large Albion Square site is an important and prominent location in our city centre, so it’s vital that we see it regenerated.
“This investment is not only crucial to the future success and prosperity of our city, but it’s also the only viable option for the site. In its current, undeveloped state, the site requires continuous and significant costs in order to keep it safe, and is also an obvious eyesore in what should be one of the most historic and impressive parts of our city.
“The only option, and the best option for Hull, is to regenerate the area.”
Alan Boyson’s Three Ships Mural will be incorporated and made a key component of the new development, alongside retail space facing Albion Square, adding to the retail offer of Jameson Street and King Edward Street.
The Fish Mural and Sponge Mural, currently located on the upper floors of the former BHS Building, will be saved and relocated within the new development.
The rear of the development will feature retail units, as well as housing that is sensitive and complimentary to the existing Georgian architecture on Albion Street. This will include family homes and apartments, some of which will have private gardens.
At the centre of the site, a new urban woodland will reconnect communities with city centre green space, allowing nature back into our urban areas through rewilding.
The urban park will be an example of how we can live with water, showcasing how rainwater can be stored, filtered, drained sustainably, and become an amenity, even play opportunity, for its inhabitants rather than relying on traditional underground drainage networks.
The result will be a dynamic and ever-changing park where water levels can rise and fall depending on weather conditions, to create either parkland or urban wetland.
The design of the park draws inspiration from Hull’s dramatic estuary landscape and the biodiverse and ecological-rich river banks. Bridges and decks will guide people through the park which will feature water, lush green spaces, seating areas and artistic elements.
Manufacturing activity strengthens, but stock adequacy hits another record low
UK manufacturing output growth in the quarter to December accelerated to its fastest pace since July, according to the latest monthly CBI Industrial Trends Survey.
The survey of 258 manufacturing firms saw output increasing in 15 out of 17 sub-sectors, with growth being mostly driven by the food, drink & tobacco and motor vehicles & transport equipment sub-sectors.
Total order books in December were judged to be ‘above normal’ to a similar extent to last month’s record high, while export orders were rated as broadly ‘normal’.
However, manufacturers’ inventory positions deteriorated further in December, with stock adequacy of finished goods worsening to a new record-low position for the second month in a row.
Respondents also said they expect price pressures to remain acute in the next three months.
Anna Leach, CBI deputy chief economist, said: “UK manufacturing demand remains strong, and output accelerated to meet this demand in December. However, behind the scenes, firms are battling pressures on a number of fronts.
“Stock adequacy of finished goods worsened to an all-time low for the second month in a row, and continued expectations for sharp price growth are a further challenge for the sector.
“The spread of the Omicron variant will have been a blow to business confidence. However, firms will welcome the Government’s decision to move from isolation to testing as a method of controlling the virus without unduly impacting their ability to operate.”
Tom Crotty, group director at INEOS and chair of the CBI Manufacturing Council, said: “While it is positive that manufacturing activity has remained strong, we have also seen a further worsening in stock adequacy of finished goods. At a time of continuing global supply chain difficulties, labour shortages and material shortages, the government should seek longer-term solutions that promote growth and investment in UK manufacturing.
“On Covid-19, the government must offer clear guidance in good time for manufacturers to continue operating safely as the country grapples with the Omicron emergency.”
The Source urges South Yorks bosses to help Traineeship teens find their futures in 2022
A Sheffield charity is appealing to South Yorkshire businesses to give young people a chance to turn their lives around in the New Year after the devastating effect the epidemic had on their schooling .
The Source Skills Academy is a not-for-profit organisation which exists to get people into jobs and upskill the employed.
It has moved swiftly to expand its Traineeship programme, which has been successfully re-setting the futures of jobless 16-18s for over four years.
Over 18 weeks, its tutors help students prepare for work, building confidence, improving Maths and English skills, helping them gain qualifications and a professional attitude.
There will now be four courses a year but The Source needs local businesses to give Trainees work placements, a crucial, life-shaping element of the programme.
“Our Traineeships are even more vital now. Many teens have been badly affected by the pandemic. They lost time in the classroom and missed out on the customary work experience placements which help prepare them for employment. Without that, even the lowest rung of the career ladder is out of reach,” said Chloe Granger, Traineeships Delivery Team Manager.
“Our programme gives them the chance to make a new start but it’s vital we find our Trainees relevant, on-the-job work experience. It makes a huge difference to their confidence and communication skills. They develop a firmer idea of their career path, discover their worth and aim higher,” said Chloe.
Already a number of local businesses have answered the call. One of them is Vulcan Engineering at The South West Centre, Troutbeck Rd, Sheffield, one of the world’s leading mechanical and encapsulated seal manufacturers.
Founded in 1986, its products are used in everything from dialysis machines to swimming pools, water sewerage plants to oil refineries – and the household washing machine.
It employs 110 people in Sheffield and at its sister company in Minneapolis, which serves the North American market.
A number of its staff found their place in the company via the 1980s Youth Training Scheme for school-leavers.
One of them, Louise Ebdon, Group HR Executive Manager, commented: “Work experience gave me a career in a sector I would never have known about and the fact that Vulcan showed faith in me when I was young is the reason I love bringing people into the business and developing them, an important part of my HR role.”.
“Vulcan is currently training eight apprentices. It’s part of the company’s culture to provide people with the opportunity to prove themselves and that’s why we have signed up to The Source Academy’s Traineeship programme,” said Louise. “We really see the value in this initiative.”
Vulcan’s first work placement Trainee is Rotherham 16-year-old Adil Ali. He is working two days a week, gaining mentoring and training in warehousing, assembly and picking and packing.
Trainees have 110 hours of work experience with local employers over 10 weeks.
Quality placements in customer service, warehousing and admin are being sought with companies across the SCR.
Employers get support from The Source and companies could just find their perfect new apprentice, says Chloe: “Bosses can get to know trainees and evaluate how they would fit into their business long-term.”
Reprocessing firm acquired by sustainable packaging company
Reprocessing firm, Bright Green Plastics, has been acquired by IPL Global from AIAC. The acquisition will allow the manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions for environmental, returnable packaging and industrial markets to offer a full recycling service for its products.
Bright Green Plastics’ West Yorkshire-based reprocessing site, which currently recycles around 40,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year with a 130-strong workforce, will continue to operate under the existing management team.
IPL plans to invest in equipment and innovative projects to increase the recycling capacity and capabilities of the business, which will ensure the continued supply of high-quality recycled compounds to customers across many sectors.
Ian Farquhar, UK Managing Director at IPL Global, says: “We are delighted to have Bright Green Plastics as part of our network of businesses. Our shared values, coupled with impressive breakthroughs in the development of recycled polymer formulas for a wide variety of applications, meaning that together we can offer sustainable solutions the market is looking for.
“It’s this passion and commitment to innovation that first attracted us to the company, and we’re excited to see the value that Bright Green Plastics is set to bring to our business as we, in turn, contribute to its ongoing growth and success in the worldwide marketplace.”
Steve Spencer, General Manager at Bright Green Plastics, adds: “Anyone that comes across our business knows we are passionate about plastic recycling.
“This acquisition will provide the global assistance to accelerate significant technical developments, ensuring as much recycled plastic as possible is ploughed back into the manufacturing cycle, whilst lessening reliance on virgin plastic.”
The acquisition was completed on 8 December 2021. Steve Spencer, who joined Bright Green Plastics in 2019, will continue to control and oversee all business operations.
