Aluminium doors and security specialist secures funding for growth
Bradford-based Crucial Engineering, which specialises in aluminium doors and security access systems, has secured a £250,000 loan from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia Debt as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
The funding will enable Crucial to take on bigger projects, and follows its expansion into larger premises last year and a spate of new high-tier contract wins. Crucial provides facades, shutters, barriers, gates and turnstiles for commercial properties such as factories, fast food restaurants, car dealerships and educational buildings.
The company was founded in 2016 by Paul Van Heeswyk, a qualified electrician who was then aged 28, with the aim of bringing a new dynamic to the security access industry. It later expanded into aluminium doors and windows.
Crucial now employs over 30 staff and serves major clients including builders’ merchants Travis Perkins, dealership chains Arnold Clark and Vertu Motors, student accommodation specialist Unite Students, and global property management company CBRE.
In October 2023, the company moved into a new 35,000 sq ft unit in Bradford, which is five times larger than its original premises in Leeds, and it has since invested heavily in new equipment and fit-out. The NPIF II funding will provide additional working capital and enable the company to create three new jobs in the coming weeks.
Paul Van Heeswyk, Managing Director, said: “At Crucial Engineering, we aim to bring a modern approach to traditional industries. We use new technology and develop innovative products. We also work hard to create a positive workplace culture and use apprenticeship schemes to attract new people into the industry.
“Our investment in the new unit has proved worthwhile as it highlights our capabilities to larger clients and has helped us secure a range of new contracts. The funding will enable us to press on with our growth plans, with the ultimate aim of expanding outside the region and building a network of depots nationwide.”
David Wright of Mercia Debt added: “Paul is an ambitious and dynamic entrepreneur who is focused on growth and has a clear vision for the future of the business. We are pleased to be able to support him on the next step of the journey.”
James Gwynne of Commercial Expert provided fundraising advice to the company.
Hull businesses win praise from BID Exec Director
HullBID Executive Director Kathryn Shillito has praised member businesses for building partnerships based on resilience and renewal in the face of continuing challenges.
Speaking at the organisation’s annual awards night she said the combination of adaptability and unity would enable businesses to emerge stronger and maximise the opportunities to come during a year of positive change.
She highlighted the setting up of a combined authority for Hull and East Yorkshire as a significant development which HullBID was determined to exploit, adding that the £65m Hull Maritime project was already bringing benefits as people make plans to enjoy the region’s biggest event since the UK City of Culture celebrations of 2017.
She warned of the need for caution arising from the impact of rising costs and changes in consumer preferences, noting concerns around delays in completing the Castle Street roadworks and over continuing outbreaks of retail crime and antisocial behaviour, but she told how HullBID was leading the fight for improvements.
“The election of a regional mayor will bring new opportunities for business and new investment. We look forward to working with the successful candidate but, as we do with all our partners, we will challenge the new mayor to make sure they understand the importance of a thriving city centre to the regional economy, the value of collaboration at every level and the ongoing need for innovation – and of course funding!”
Kathryn said local independent businesses are responding positively, and she vowed that HullBID would support them every step of the way. “Independent developers continue to back Hull city centre and its future. The confidence of people who really get the ambitions of the city is clear as they are investing their own cash.
“As our members adapt and endure the challenges HullBID has to step up too and provide even greater value. We’re not just a helping hand with security and cleaning issues. We give guidance and support to new businesses. We compile data and write reports to attract investment.
“We are a conduit pulling together responses from our community on issues that matter, and we make our mark by shouting loudly and championing the voices of city businesses about local issues.”
Waverley’s new high street to open this Spring as construction completes
Olive Lane, the new high street at Waverley, will be open to the community at the start of March as master developer Harworth completes construction of the development and businesses move in.
The first amenity to open will be a Tesco store, while Specsavers, Hall Court Vets, Karobar Indian Restaurant and Little Olives Day Nursery will be commencing the fit-out of their units ahead of opening in the coming months.
Harworth has also funded the development of a new GP practice and community centre at Olive Lane. Waverley Community Council will be using the centre as its base and creating the space with funding secured from the National Lottery.
Waverley is the flagship development of regeneration specialist Harworth. Built on the site of the former Orgreave Colliery, the land has been transformed into a new community with over 1,700 homes and a primary school alongside the globally-recognised Advanced Manufacturing Park which is home to businesses including McLaren and Rolls Royce.
The creation of Olive Lane is a significant milestone in the development of Waverley – it will be a place for those living and working there to come together and socialise and provides amenities for the growing community. The area is pedestrianised with a public square providing the community with additional outdoor space.
Peter Massie, senior development manager at Harworth, said: “This is an exciting year for Waverley – there’s lots happening across the development and the opening of Olive Lane to the community is a real highlight. Harworth has focused on creating a vibrant place that meets the needs of those living and working at Waverley.
“It will be great to see the high street come to life over the next few months, and for the community to start using the new amenities. We’re also looking forward to welcoming more businesses to Olive Lane. There are some additional commercial units available for occupation, so we encourage any businesses interested in being based at Waverley to get in touch.”
Yorkshire business confidence rises in February
Business confidence in Yorkshire rose 10 points during February to 39%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds.
Companies in Yorkshire reported higher confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, up 14 points at 53%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, up eight points to 26%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 39% (vs. 29% in January).
A net balance of 38% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 12 points on last month.
Looking ahead to the next six months, Yorkshire businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (48%), introducing new technology, such as automation or AI (35%), and evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products and services (35%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
National picture
Overall, UK business confidence rose 12 points in February to 49% — its highest level since August 2024.
Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects increased six points to 57%, while their confidence in the wider economy rose 18 points to 42%.
The North East was the most confident UK nation or region in February (69%), followed by the North West and East of England, both at 61%.
Sector insights
All four sectors surveyed saw double-digit increases in confidence. The largest improvements were seen in manufacturing, which rose by 13 points to 51%, and construction, which increased by 14 points to 50%. Retail also experienced a significant gain, up 11 points to 51%, and services rose by 10 points to 48%.
Within the services sector, hospitality firms posted a particularly strong rebound in sentiment. Confidence across these sectors reached their highest levels in several months, ranging from four months in services to seven months in manufacturing.
Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds, said: “It’s encouraging to see business confidence in Yorkshire continue to rise for a third month in a row, and particularly good to see such a positive outlook from the region’s firms when it comes to their own trading prospects.
“As businesses look ahead to further growth, we’ll be supporting them with the tools and funding they need to make the most of any new opportunities – whether that’s by hiring new staff, or making investments in team development.”
AstraZeneca opens Lincolnshire biogas plant to power UK operations
AstraZeneca and renewable energy firm Future Biogas have launched a biogas plant in Gonerby Moor, Lincolnshire, to supply renewable energy for the pharmaceutical company’s UK operations.
The Moor Bioenergy plant will generate 100 gigawatt hours of biomethane annually, meeting the heating needs of more than 8,000 homes. By the end of 2024, AstraZeneca aims to power all its UK research and manufacturing facilities with clean energy, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. The company expects the plant to offset 18,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, equivalent to 20% of its total global gas consumption.
Unlike some renewable energy projects, the plant was developed without government subsidies. AstraZeneca says the investment aligns with its broader goal of achieving 100% renewable energy across all global operations by the end of this year and reaching net-zero emissions by 2045.
AstraZeneca shares rose 0.24% to 11,910p on Thursday, reflecting a 15% increase over the past year.
North Lincolnshire Council to review HMO regulation amid rising concerns
North Lincolnshire Council will hold an extraordinary meeting to address concerns over the rapid expansion of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and their living standards. The meeting, initiated by opposition Labour councillors, follows reports of increasing HMOs in Scunthorpe and resident complaints about housing conditions.
A council review identified 110 suspected HMOs in just two wards—Crosby and Park, and Town and Frodingham—raising questions about regulatory oversight. Only 25 HMOs in North Lincolnshire hold mandatory licences, which are required for properties with five or more tenants sharing kitchen or bathroom facilities.
Labour councillors argue that local authorities elsewhere have imposed stricter controls and are calling for similar action. A motion on the issue will be discussed, and the meeting must take place by late April.
The council is already working on implementing selective licensing for landlords, a measure supported across party lines. In September, the ruling Conservative group approved selective licensing in parts of Scunthorpe.
Turner & Townsend relocates to zero carbon-ready office building in Sheffield
Turner & Townsend has completed the acquisition of sustainable, carbon zero workspace at Elshaw House, the flagship office development within the £470m mixed-use Heart of the City scheme led by Sheffield City Council and its Strategic Development Partner, Queensbury. CBRE’s Office Agency team in Leeds acted for Turner & Townsend.
The majority-owned subsidiary of CBRE, Turner & Townsend will relocate from the second floor at 1-3 East Parade in Sheffield City Centre to 5,200 sq ft of office space at Elshaw House, which is located on Carver Street, next to Pounds 3.5 acre urban Park.
The building has a five-star BREEAM green energy rating, as well as an ‘excellent’ five-star NABERS UK rating, and sits in the top 1% of office buildings in the UK for energy efficiency.
Charles Parkinson, Associate Director, CBRE Occupier Services, said: “Elshaw House represents the very best in office space in Sheffield City Centre and the South Yorkshire region and sits in a truly transformational new city centre district.
“The building not only delivers on its exceptional sustainability credentials, its wide amenity offer and its focus on wellbeing, it is close to the city’s talent pool with both Sheffield Hallam and the University of Sheffield nearby.”
Chris Sargent, Managing Director, Real Estate UK at Turner & Townsend, said: “We are thrilled to be moving to Elshaw House, a pioneering development that aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and wellbeing.
“This move not only provides us with a larger, state-of-the-art workspace, but also places us at the heart of Sheffield’s vibrant and transformed city centre. The exceptional amenities and green credentials of Elshaw House will undoubtedly enhance our team’s productivity and overall work experience.
“We are especially proud of relocate to a building that we played a significant role in delivering as Project and Cost Managers as part of the Heart of the City II development. This achievement reflects our dedication to excellence and innovation and we look forward to continuing our growth and success in this outstanding new location.”
Andrew Davison, Project Director, Queensberry, said: “This letting shows once again the strength of Elshaw House as a market leading sustainable office building and we are delighted Turner & Townsend has aligned with our vision and strategy.
“Over the last 6 months we have seen an increasing number of companies placing sustainable office solutions at the forefront of their agenda and when combined with the building’s location, low running costs and onsite amenities within HOTC, makes Elshaw House the No.1 choice in the City, whilst significantly boosting staff retention and attraction rates for businesses.”
Colloco and LSH acted on behalf of the landlord, Sheffield City Council.
Leeds real estate developer secures £14.2m development exit loan
Specialist bridge lender Hilco Real Estate Finance (HREF) has provided a £14.2m development exit loan to Torsion Group, a Leeds-based real estate investor & developer.
The 12-month loan at 74% net loan to value will provide the Group’s development arm, Torsion Developments, with additional time to sell the remaining units in their 364-unit Phoenix residential scheme in Leeds.
Charlie Job, associate at HREF, said: “This development exit loan to Torsion is a perfect example of transitional capital, and demonstrates our ability to lend swiftly without any constraints on funding on any deal that makes sense.
“This transaction also shows our appetite for development exit loans and the deliverability of our funding, and we look forward to transacting on further developments with Torsion Group.”
The transaction was introduced by Nick Swerner of GLPG, who said: “Working with our client and Hilco on this deal was highly enjoyable, as we had two motivated partners to conclude the transaction, with Hilco proving to be a reliable capital partner, able to deliver swiftly on their own decision to lend without any third party involvement.”
Valuations were undertaken by Gerald Eve LLP, and legal due diligence and transactional support was carried out for HREF by Clarion Solicitors led by Ben Slack and Marie Pugh.
Study Inn completes Leeds student scheme
Study Inn has completed its Brotherton House development in Leeds. The second phase of the project, opened and occupied in September 2024, brings the total to 385 rooms complemented by state-of-the-art amenities.
Brotherton House was originally built for Lord Brotherton’s Chemical company in 1956. The historic building was purchased by J Pullans & Sons, the Leeds-based property management, investment and development business in 2012 and a Joint Venture partnership was formed with Study Inn to transform this iconic building into modern, purpose-built student accommodation in 2022.
This first phase created 163 rooms whilst preserving the site’s historic character and introduced cutting-edge facilities.
The second phase, comprising a 15-storey new build alongside Brotherton House, has added 222 additional rooms. The scheme offers a choice between en-suite serviced apartments and serviced studios. Residents benefit from amenities such as a wellness spa, gym, yoga studio, bowling lanes, cinema lounge, and dedicated study areas, all designed to foster a sense of community and enhance student well-being.
Sustainability was a key focus throughout the project, with the development incorporating features such as photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps to minimise its environmental impact.
Simon Liversage, Managing Director of Developments at Study Inn Group, said: “We design, develop, and operate our schemes with our in-house, integrated team. ESG is a top priority for us, and we take it seriously in everything we do.
“This development highlights our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint while delivering exceptional accommodation that prioritises both sustainability and an outstanding resident experience. This award-winning project reflects the dedication and hard work of our team.”
Mark Pullan, Managing Director of J Pullans & Sons, said: “We’re proud to have helped bring new life to Brotherton House, ensuring this landmark building continues to serve future generations. Working with Study Inn Group on this redevelopment aligns with our focus on sustainable, long-term projects that benefit both the building and the wider community.”
Harrogate Housing Association secures £15m for 200 affordable homes
Harrogate Housing Association has secured £15 million in loan funding from Triodos Bank UK to build 200 new affordable homes, expanding its portfolio beyond 300 properties in and around Harrogate.
The new homes will have energy performance certificate (EPC) ratings of B or higher, and some will feature air source heat pumps and solar panels to lower residents’ energy costs.
Triodos Bank, which has provided £500 million in loans to UK housing associations since 2008, focuses on financing projects with social and environmental impact. The bank sees the development as a critical step in addressing Harrogate’s housing shortage.
Founded in 1968, Harrogate Housing Association is a not-for-profit housing provider registered with the Homes and Communities Agency. It continues to focus on delivering affordable housing in response to high property prices in the region.
Strategic implementation of workplace safety standards in Yorkshire & Lincolnshire
Workplace safety is a critical business consideration, directly impacting employee well-being, operational efficiency, and legal compliance. In Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, businesses across manufacturing, construction, and professional services face unique safety challenges that require proactive strategies. Ensuring strong safety standards is not just about compliance; it is a vital investment in productivity and corporate reputation. How can organisations implement effective safety measures while maintaining operational efficiency?
Let’s break down the key aspects of workplace safety and how to apply them effectively.
Establishing a Safety-First Culture
Creating a culture prioritising safety is the foundation for implementing effective workplace safety standards. This goes beyond compliance; it necessitates a shift in mindset where safety becomes ingrained in the organisational ethos. Leadership must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to safety through actions and decisions. Regular safety meetings, open communication, and employee involvement in safety initiatives help reinforce this culture, making safety a shared responsibility.
A crucial step in establishing this culture is ensuring proper emergency response training. First aid courses in Sheffield from Safe Haven Training offer comprehensive training that meets Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements, providing essential skills for workplace emergencies. These courses, ranging from basic emergency first aid to more advanced certifications, equip employees with the confidence and competence to handle various medical situations.
By investing in local training opportunities, organisations demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare while fulfilling legal obligations for workplace safety. This proactive approach to safety training helps cultivate an environment where employees feel valued and protected, enhancing overall morale and engagement.
Continuous Safety Training and Development
Regular training and development are crucial elements of maintaining workplace safety standards. Continuous learning ensures employees remain informed about the latest safety protocols and best practices. Training should be tailored to specific workplace hazards and updated regularly to reflect changes in regulations or workplace conditions. This proactive approach empowers employees with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to potential risks.
Organisations can benefit from partnering with professional training providers to deliver comprehensive and relevant courses. By investing in continuous safety education, businesses can significantly reduce workplace accidents and enhance their safety culture.
Conducting Regular Safety Audits
Regular safety audits are essential to evaluating and improving workplace safety standards. Audits help identify potential hazards, assess current safety measures, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. They also allow organisations to make necessary adjustments and improve their safety practices. Yorkshire and Lincolnshire businesses are committed to creating a safe environment by conducting these audits, reassuring employees and stakeholders.
Conducting these audits involves a thorough examination of workplace processes, equipment, and environments. Engaging external experts or training providers can offer an unbiased perspective and expert recommendations.
By implementing suggestions from these audits, companies can proactively address safety issues and prevent accidents before they occur. This mitigates risks and enhances the organisation’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking employer.
Implementing Robust Emergency Response Plans
A well-defined emergency response plan is critical to minimising the impact of unforeseen incidents. These plans should clearly outline the steps to be taken in various emergency scenarios, including fire outbreaks, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. All employees must be familiar with these plans and participate in regular drills to ensure confident and effective action during emergencies.
Emergency response plans should be easily accessible and updated periodically to reflect workplace conditions or personnel changes. Consider utilising local resources, such as first aid training providers, to conduct emergency drills and refine response plans.
By preparing thoroughly, businesses in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire can ensure that emergency responses are swift, effective, and aligned with industry best practices. Providing refresher courses and feedback sessions after drills can help identify areas for improvement, ensuring an agile and responsive safety strategy.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Safety
Integrating technology into workplace safety strategies offers innovative solutions for monitoring and improving safety standards. Implementing safety management software can streamline incident reporting, track safety training compliance, and automate audit schedules. Wearable technology, such as smart helmets or health monitors, can provide real-time data on workers’ conditions, alerting them to potential hazards before accidents occur.
Adopting these technological advances enhances safety protocols and brings efficiency to safety management processes. Companies in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire that embrace these technological innovations can create a safer, more productive work environment, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while providing peace of mind to employees.
Zest launches ultra-rapid EV charging at Doncaster’s Riverdale Park
Zest has installed four ultra-rapid EV charging stations at Riverdale Park in Doncaster, located on Argo Drive near Wheatley Hall Road. The chargers provide up to 80% battery capacity in as little as 20 minutes, serving residents and visitors to nearby businesses, including Wheatley Centre Shopping Park and Costa Coffee.
The deployment is part of a collaboration with Harworth Group, the developer behind Riverdale Park. Harworth Group aims to enhance local infrastructure as more drivers transition to electric vehicles. Zest, a Leeds-based investor and public EV charging infrastructure operator, continues to expand its network in partnership with real estate developers and local authorities.
Muse expands regeneration pipeline with new partnerships
Regeneration specialist Muse has contributed to the financial growth of parent company Morgan Sindall Group, which reported a 10% revenue increase to over £4.5 billion and a 19% rise in adjusted operating profit to £172.5 million. The group’s secured order book grew 28% to £11.4 billion, with net cash reaching £492 million.
Muse’s development pipeline has expanded to £4.1 billion, up from £1.8 billion in 2023, driven by key partnerships. The company secured a Development Agreement with Bradford City Council for City Village, a project under its ECF partnership with Legal & General and Homes England, set to deliver up to 1,000 homes, workspaces, and retail spaces.
In Wakefield, Muse was named preferred Strategic Regeneration Partner, while in Hull, its ECF partnership was appointed as Development Partner for East Bank Village. This 15-year project could bring 850 new homes. The company also completed 113 affordable homes at Northshore in Stockton-on-Tees and delivered Forge Island, a leisure destination in Rotherham.
Additionally, Muse agreed to sell a 31-acre commercial site at Harrier Park in Hucknall and completed phase five infrastructure work for a new Nottinghamshire community.
The company is also expanding its partnership strategy through Habiko, a joint initiative with Pension Insurance Corporation and Homes England. The initiative aims to build up to 3,000 sustainable, affordable homes nationwide, including potential developments in Yorkshire and the North East.
York Handmade supplies specially manufactured bricks for York Minster Centre of Excellence
York Handmade Brick Company, based at Alne, near Easingwold, has supplied 17,000 specially manufactured bricks for the new York Minster Centre of Excellence, a world class campus facility for research, education and training in traditional craft skills.
This significant contract was worth £15,000 to York Handmade.
The £8.5m centre, based in the York Minster Precinct, will bring benefits including continuing the craft of stonemasonry and encouraging global learning and knowledge sharing. It will also preserve ancient craft skills for future generations, as well as being a shining example of best practice in managing complex heritage estates.
Utilising world-class, cutting-edge technology, it will also support young people in the early stages of their careers and provide dedicated residential facilities for first-year apprentices.
The Centre of Excellence will also position the Minster as leading the charge for the preservation of ancient craft skills on the international stage, facilitating knowledge sharing and exchange programmes with leading cathedrals worldwide, including Washington, Milan and Trondheim.
Guy Armitage, the managing director of York Handmade, said: “This was a tremendous project with which to be involved, and we are very proud to be associated with it. It is such a forward-thinking facility that will safeguard skills in the city of York to preserve the heritage of York Minster for the future.”
Alex McCallion, the Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, explained: “The Centre of Excellence was completed in November 2024 and is now fully operational. The Centre will be officially opened later this year and we are hosting a special heritage day on August 2 for members of the public to visit the buildings.
“The creation of a Centre of Excellence will not only enable the preservation and development of the ancient craft skills that have sustained the Minster over the centuries but will also secure a sustainable future for it, our visitors and the communities that we serve.
“York Handmade’s bricks were used in the construction of the ancillary building which houses the plant room, gardeners’ store and LEV system. We have used their bricks many times in projects throughout the Minster Precinct.
“The use of York Handmade on this project ensured we secured support from our own Fabric Advisory Committee and York’s Conservation Officer when discharging the conditions around material. We are delighted with the result.”
The vision for the Centre of Excellence is a key element of the adopted York Minster Precinct Neighbourhood Plan which sets out a policy-led approach to creating a sustainable future for the Minster and its seven-hectare estate.
Guy Armitage added: “We have recently invested £1.5 million in brand-new machinery which has transformed how we make our bricks. Over the years, we have undertaken significant technological improvements, culminating in this overhaul and renewal of our manufacturing process, which has speeded up production, facilitated two brand-new products and increased efficiency.
“This investment will enable us to manufacture high-quality, UK-made bricks for many years to come and it reflects our commitment to the brick industry and the astounding architectural projects using bricks.”
Mayor moves to create £250m investment fund to accelerate economic growth in West Yorkshire
Plans to create a multimillion-pound investment fund to boost jobs, accelerate economic growth and put more money in people’s pockets are set to go before regional leaders.
Declaring that “now is the time to invest,” regional mayor Tracy Brabin will put forward proposals for a new, £250 million capital investment fund for non-transport schemes, at a full meeting of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority later today (27 February).
This will complement the £2.5 billion being spent on transport infrastructure by the Mayor to better connect the region.
If approved, the Combined Authority will borrow against a proportion of its £38 million of flexible funding it receives each year from the Government, to create a much larger investment fund. This will help to get major projects off the ground and leverage up to £900 million of total investment alongside the private sector.
The fund will accelerate the delivery of the West Yorkshire Local Growth Plan, which aims to add £26 billion to the UK economy and support the creation of an additional 33,000 jobs for local people over the next ten years.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “We have an ambitious plan for jobs and growth in West Yorkshire, but without the right investment, our region cannot fulfil its full potential.
“That is why I’m stepping in with this new multimillion-pound investment fund, that will deliver warmer and more affordable homes, as part of vibrant and thriving communities for local people.
“This is devolution in action – by investing in the future of our region, we will put more money in people’s pockets and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire for all.”
To deliver the Local Growth Plan, investments have been identified across several key areas, which will combine with plans for a fully integrated transport network to create vibrant and well-connected communities across the whole of West Yorkshire.
Areas that will be targeted for investment include:
- The region’s housing and regeneration hotspots, where planning permission has been secured for an additional 34,000 homes on brownfield land, and regeneration plans have been drawn up to develop new neighbourhoods that are linked to transport, social and creative infrastructure. Working with Homes England and developers, the Combined Authority will look to drive housing growth by investing in flagship schemes through new partnerships and delivery mechanisms.
- The region’s culture, heritage and sport infrastructure, including pitches, libraries and concert venues. A 5,000-seat, indoor, multi-use arena could be developed, depending on the outcome of feasibility studies and provided that other key investors can be secured. Investment in the region’s creative infrastructure will boost skills and jobs, while contributing to increased wellbeing and the creation of more vibrant communities.
- The region’s plans for a home energy revolution, where every social home is retrofitted and every private homeowner can receive advice or financial support to invest in home improvements that bring down bills. The Combined Authority estimates that every social home and half of private homes must be retrofitted to meet the Mayor’s target of net zero carbon by 2038. The investment fund will be used to scale up this activity through a new Social Housing Investment Plan, incentives for homeowners to invest in green technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels, and a Home Energy West Yorkshire “One Stop Shop”, which will provide advice and support to households throughout their home improvement works.
- The region’s net zero ambitions, which will be supported through a new pipeline of green projects and five Local Area Energy Plans, co-created with the local authorities in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield. The investment fund will help to unlock new renewable energy infrastructure such as onshore wind, and support the decarbonisation of existing assets such as buildings, businesses and transport. A proposed multimillion-pound West Yorkshire Climate Fund could blend public, private and commercial funding from banks to back new green projects through loan and equity schemes, while Mayoral investment in green skills training will help ensure that the region has the workforce it needs to deliver the green transition.
- The region’s Further Education colleges, which are facing a rising demand for space and equipment from young people needing the right skills for local, well-paid jobs. While the level of colleges’ capital funding is set by the Government, the Combined Authority is exploring investment options to meet this growing and ever evolving need. This will help to ensure that people and businesses have the skills they need to succeed, and that the region has the labour market it needs to deliver its flagship transformational projects, including a fully integrated transport system and an ambitious retrofit scheme for all social homes.
Tracsis reports revenue growth, secures key contracts
Transport technology provider Tracsis expects H1 FY25 revenue of £36.3 million, reflecting modest growth from H1 FY24 (£35.5 million like-for-like), after excluding £1.1 million in discontinued revenue.
The Leeds-based company highlighted strong contract wins and operational progress in its latest trading update. Driven by a solid order book, it anticipates improved revenue and EBITDA margin performance in H2 FY25.
Despite the slower activity in parts of the UK rail market, Tracsis reports continued demand for modernisation and digital solutions. The company’s diversification strategy is gaining traction, expanding its reach into larger strategic opportunities.
Tracsis maintains a strong cash position, allowing for ongoing investment in technology and potential acquisitions. Its core products align with the UK government’s rail strategy, though ongoing consultations may delay procurement timelines in Operations & Planning. The company expects its recurring software revenue from UK train operators to remain stable despite potential regulatory changes.
Dewsbury town centre hotel plan rejected over design and parking concerns
Kirklees Council has rejected plans for a three-storey, 33-room hotel in Dewsbury town centre, citing concerns over design, height, and the loss of parking space.
The proposal, a scaled-down version of a previously rejected six-storey, 75-room plan, faced objections from residents and the Dewsbury Chamber of Trade. While supporters argued the hotel would create jobs and boost the local economy, the Chamber of Trade expressed doubts about its quality alignment with the town’s long-term development goals.
The council determined that the potential benefits did not outweigh the negative impact on the area.
Two join board of Humber Marine and Renewables
David Laister and Emma Lingard have been given seats on the board of Humber Marine and Renewables.
Their role is to help steer its strategic direction by bringing strong communications acumen to the leadership team. The new directors have been appointed following the departure of Graham Billany, and former chair Iain Butterworth. Humber Marine and Renewables is in the process of appointing a new chair, as well as a business development manager, to help deliver the strategic plan that formed December’s successful bid.
David is no stranger to Humber Marine and Renewables, having hosted Offshore Wind Connections 2024 and extensively covered the sector’s happenings in an 18-year stint as a business journalist in the region. He is now PR and media director at Hull-based Fred Marketing, and had also served on the board of Grimsby Renewables Partnership (which in 2022 merged with Team Humber Marine Alliance to create Humber Marine & Renewables) between 2016 and 2019.
He said: “It is a pleasure to be involved in an organisation I’ve always had the utmost respect for, having supported the incredible events that bring key Humber businesses and industry leaders together.
“The devolution agenda playing out in 2025 underlines the importance of pan-Humber organisations to the business community, so I’m delighted to be on board.”
For the past three years Emma has worked for Associated British Ports as corporate communications manager for the four Humber ports. She had previously served Seafish in a similar role, and has also worked as a journalist in the region, including a stint on local television. Emma also leads guided history walks around northern Lincolnshire and delivers history talks. Her knowledge and media skills have led to appearances on Radio Four and Who Do You Think You Are? – which recently led to a Michael McIntyre parody.
Emma said: “The Humber region is at the forefront of the UK’s renewable energy revolution, and I’m excited to contribute my expertise to support its vision for sustainable growth and innovation.”
Mr Butterworth, a lawyer and marine engineer, was at the helm for the beginning of a new chapter for Humber Marine & Renewables, notably the repositioning to include North Yorkshire’s coastal communities, the addition of the Humber Renewables Awards to the organisation’s event schedule and the recent funding win.
He said: “It was a good time to step down after overseeing a significant period of activity for Humber Marine & Renewables.
“We’ve truly come together as one voice for the region following the merger of Team Humber Marine Alliance and Grimsby Renewables Partnership, with clear recognition from government of further potential. I wish all well.”
Lincoln Business Club boosts charity by £4,800
Lincoln Business Club ihas raised £4,800 for Cash for Kids, its Charity Partner of 2024.
As a not-for-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers, Lincoln Business Club donates proceeds from ticket sales for its monthly networking events, its popular golf day, and various fundraising initiatives. Thanks to the unwavering support of attendees, the club has raised a significant sum to help children and young people in Lincolnshire affected by poverty, illness, neglect, or additional needs.
Hannah Clarke, Charity Manager for Cash for Kids, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support from Lincoln Business Club. Thanks to the £4,800 raised, we can continue making a positive impact on children and young people in Lincolnshire affected by poverty, illness, neglect, or additional needs. Being a Charity Partner has not only enabled us to provide grants to disadvantaged children but also helped us raise vital awareness for Cash for Kids in our region. Thank you!”
Robert Drury, Chair of Lincoln Business Club, added: “We are incredibly proud to donate £4,800 in support of our Charity of the Year, Cash for Kids. This donation reflects the efforts and generosity of Lincoln Business Club and its members, reinforcing our commitment as a not-for-profit networking club in Lincoln. Our wonderful community has made this possible, and it’s inspiring to see what can be achieved when local businesses come together for such a worthy cause.”
The £4,800 raised will support Cash for Kids’ ongoing efforts to improve the lives of children and young people in Lincolnshire, providing grants to those most in need and funding essential community projects.
York and North Yorkshire Business Board backs local growth sectors
The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Business Board has endorsed the key focus areas for the region’s Local Growth Plan, identifying priority sectors for economic development.
The Board, established in November to advise on strategy and policy, met in Harrogate to support the ‘Competitive Advantage Sectors,’ which include Food and Farming Innovation, Engineering Biology and Life Sciences, Clean Energy, Rail Innovation and Security, and Creative Industries and Heritage. The plan will undergo consultation with industry leaders.
Sector champions, including tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, and SMEs, have been appointed to drive development in these areas. They will engage with businesses and provide direct input to the Mayor and the Combined Authority.
Additional agenda items included a national review of small business support, updates on York and North Yorkshire’s Business Innovation Programme, and discussions on fostering female entrepreneurship in the region.
The Business Board aims to position York and North Yorkshire as a leader in rural economic development, leveraging its strengths to drive long-term growth.
