Leeds Sustainability Institute’s new test cells to advance building performance measures ahead of housing industry changes
The Leeds Sustainability Institute (LSI), part of Leeds Beckett University, is launching two new test cells to baseline the real-world thermal performance of UK homes and further advance its innovation in energy efficiency testing.
The launch of the two test cells at Citu’s Climate Innovation District in Leeds, is part of a wider project by LSI to gather real-world thermal performance data on British house types to allow the evaluation of the effectiveness of new build homes and innovative retrofit solutions.
This work comes at a critical time, with the Future Homes Standard (FHS) set to take effect in 2025. For the first time, developers will be required to test and verify the thermal performance of new homes after construction, ensuring they perform as designed.
These test cells will function as laboratories, enabling the development of more reliable methods for measuring building performance. By improving measurement techniques, housebuilders, landlords, and homebuyers can gain greater confidence that their properties perform as expected and meet modern energy efficiency standards.
Alongside the launch of these new facilities, the LSI has been conducting an extensive building performance testing program at the Net-Zero Research Village (NeRV) near Gateshead. Powered by Northern Gas Networks, NeRV serves as a cutting-edge testing ground for emerging retrofit net-zero technologies.
At NeRV, the LSI team is assessing nine different home types, each representing a typical British housing era—from 1910s terraces and 1930s semi-detached houses to 1950s bungalows, 1970s flats, and 1990s detached homes. Their research will establish baseline thermal performance metrics for each housing type, allowing the evaluation of the effectiveness of innovative retrofit solutions.
The LSI’s research will provide data to improve tools that will help the industry meet its ambitious new build and retrofit targets, and help the industry move away from relying exclusively on models to predict hypothetical improvements.
This is also critical as the UK government is accelerating efforts to retrofit existing homes to meet net-zero targets. To support this, new “pay-by-performance” mechanisms have been introduced in initiatives like the Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). These programs emphasize the need for accurate measurement tools that can verify real energy savings before and after retrofits.
Professor David Glew, Director of the Leeds Sustainability Institute at Leeds Beckett University, said: “We’re partnering with developer Citu to establish these two test cell sites in Leeds to help define a pathway for housebuilders to integrate measurements into their everyday construction processes and meet upcoming net zero regulations.
“The coming shift in focus within the building regulations towards measured data is a step change for the industry, and we are doing this research to improve and validate the tools industry needs to ensure they will comply with the requirements.
“It is essential for all parts of the construction industry, from housebuilders, landlords and energy companies to green tech and finance innovators, to know the real performance of their energy efficient products and homes.
“Without reliable tools and methods to test and baseline performance, we won’t have the certainty we need to support the net zero transition of our housing stock. The benefits of our research will be transformative, from ensuring that the sector meets its legal responsibilities to hitting energy saving targets and even helping new tech on its journey to adoption.”
Sam Whiteley, Production Manager at Citu, added: “Citu and the Climate Innovation District are driven by creating sustainable urban communities and exploring and incorporating homes built with sustainable materials and innovative technologies.
“So, working with LSI on these two new test cells helps to not only demonstrate our existing credentials but will allow us to continue innovate and drive performance standards in sustainable home building.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of this wider programme as we all work towards a Net Zero future.”
David Lynch, Energy Transition Strategy Manager at NeRV, said: “The testing LSI have carried out at NeRV will give us granular insights into the baseline energy performance for each property type, ultimately helping us understand what impact low carbon retrofit technologies have had upon each dwelling.
“All of this takes us closer to delivering the data on domestic decarbonisation, and providing the evidence customers need to make informed decisions depending on the type of home they live in.
“With the UK needing to decarbonise 20,000 properties a week for the next 25 years, it’s absolutely essential to have those answers.”
More signs of labour market slack as hiring activity falls at sharper rate across the North of England
The jobs market in the North of England has remained under pressure, according to the latest KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs: North of England survey data.
Demand for workers weakened, as reflected by an accelerated drop in vacancies. As a result, hiring activity for both types of staff contracted, again at sharper and historically elevated rates. This triggered a cooldown in pay growth.
The KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs: North of England is compiled by S&P Global from responses to questionnaires sent to around 150 recruitment and employment consultancies in the North of England.
Decline in permanent hiring activity intensifies further
January survey data showed that permanent staff placements fell at a substantial and accelerated pace in the North of England. This marked the fifth decrease in the respective seasonally adjusted index in consecutive months, to its lowest since June 2020.
Surveyed recruiters linked the downturn to reduced vacancies, hiring hesitancy amid post-budget uncertainty and elevated staffing costs. Though all four monitored English regions posted substantial decreases in permanent staff appointments, the North led the downturn in January.
Recruiters in the North of England registered a third straight month-on-month decrease in their billings received from temporary employment in January. The decline reportedly reflected a lack of recruitment activity following the 2024 Autumn budget. Having re-accelerated in January, the rate of contraction in temp billings was steep across the region and in line with the UK trend.
January data pointed to a third consecutive monthly decrease in job openings for both types of staff across the North of England. The substantial decline in permanent vacancies seen across the region was the strongest for nearly four-and-a-half years. The rate of contraction was also the most pronounced across the four monitored English regions.
Temp vacancies fell at the quickest rate since June 2020 in the latest survey period and at a stronger rate compared to the UK average.
Softer increase in permanent staff supply in January
There was a further rise in permanent staff supply in the North of England in January, thereby stretching the trend of growth to just over one year. Though strong, the rate of expansion was the weakest seen over this period.
The increase reportedly reflected a challenging jobs market and a subsequent rise in redundancies. The local uplift in permanent staff availability was the joint-softest of the monitored regions, matching that seen in the South of England.
Recruitment agencies in the North of England signalled a further rise in availability of short-term staff in January, thus marking a near two-year run of expansion. The rate of growth in temporary staff supply was steep and the joint-strongest in just over four years (equal with October 2024).
Panellists linked the uptick to a hiring slowdown and a rise in redundancies. For back-to-back months, the North of England posted the fastest increase in temp staff availability seen regionally.
Below average starting salary inflation cools further in January
Salaries awarded to new permanent joiners across the North of England rose moderately in January, marking nearly four years of wage growth. The rate of increase was the weakest for three months and noticeably softer than the average seen since starting pay began rising in early 2021.
Where growth was reported, panellists mentioned a rise in placements for senior roles and increased pay offers to secure candidates. Moreover, the local rate of inflation was slightly faster than the UK average.
As has been the case on a monthly basis since the end of 2023, there was a further rise in hourly wages across the North of England in January. The local rate of temp pay inflation was only marginal and the softest seen across current run of growth, but nevertheless stronger than the UK average, in part due to a sharper drop in temp rates in the South of England.
Phil Murden, Leeds Office Senior Partner at KPMG UK, said: “The challenges within the job market show little sign of easing, with permanent staff placements in the North now slumping at the fastest pace since during the COVID-19 pandemic when hiring had all but stopped. We’re seeing a combination of declining vacancies and an increase in staff supply that’s making it a difficult climate for jobseekers.
“Hiring hesitancy has persisted into 2025 fuelled by firms keeping the impending employers National Insurance rate rise in mind as they approach the new tax year.
“There are small bright spots at the top end of the market, with some businesses continuing to invest in top talent for senior roles – a positive indication that businesses are more readily thinking about their longer-term strategies. Our recent KPE Barometer bears this out, with Yorkshire businesses looking to focus investment on delivering new products and services which will demand the skills and experience that senior top talent provides.”
Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, said: “Businesses entered the year uncertain on the growth path, and that has driven a ‘wait and see’ approach to hiring. Around the country, REC members report that clients have plans and are hopeful for the year ahead – but firms are slowing investment until they see more momentum in the economy.
“Salaries awarded to new permanent joiners across the North rose moderately in January and the local rate of temp pay inflation was only marginal. Last week’s move on interest rates was timely as a way of boosting confidence. The more central role of growth in Government thinking since the Chancellor’s speech last month will also help. But it takes time, and real action, to build business confidence.
“An autumn of fiscal gloom, difficulty navigating significant upcoming tax rises and little progress on the practicalities of a costly new approach to employment rights are all acting as brakes on progress. As well as the monetary stimulus to growth, it’s time for greater clarity on how the Government will use its industrial strategy to drive the growth of the whole economy.”
South Yorkshire firms encouraged to comment on planning systems
Businesses across South Yorkshire are being asked to share their experiences with the local planning systems to highlight what works well and where they believe there is room for improvement as part of a new poll conducted by South Yorkshire’s three Chambers of Commerce.
The survey seeks to create a baseline for how businesses currently experience the planning system, understand where there might be blockages, and identify areas for improvement.
Among other things, it asks respondents to outline how satisfied they have been with the outcomes of any planning applications they may have submitted in the past, the ease with which they have been able to engage with the Local Planning Authority (LPA) in question, and their awareness of the various support mechanisms that are available to help them at different stages of the process. The South Yorkshire Planning Survey is open from now until Monday the 10th of March.
Equipped with these insights, the South Yorkshire Chambers will then be able to advocate for positive changes in the planning system while also sharing the findings with those partners that are best placed to make a difference.
Encouraging businesses to complete the Planning Survey, the chief executives for chambers of commerce covering Doncaster, Sheffield and Barnsley & Rotherham issued a joint statement: “The planning system is, of course, instrumental when it comes to helping firms of all shapes and sizes unlock their true potential. When it is working as intended, it plays a significant role in spurring on growth, encouraging investment, and making sure that exciting projects are able to get off the ground in a timely manner.
“Conversely, we know — from anecdotal conversations with our members — that the planning system can also conspire to slow projects down with a negative impact on economic growth
“In such economically turbulent times, when every metric used to measure business confidence is already dropping dramatically and investment intentions are at a concerning low, it’s therefore important that our planning system meets the needs of our private and voluntary sectors and predisposed towards encouraging sustainable development.
“With that said, we’d like to urge businesses to please spare just 10 minutes to complete our Planning Survey, so that we can get under the bonnet of this important issue. The information gleaned here will be invaluable, and as always with any our insight gathering activities, every last response counts.”
The Planning Survey has been sponsored by Clear Insurance Management and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.
Co-Chair of the South Yorkshire Mayor’s Business Advisory Board, Tariq Shah, added: “A well-functioning planning system is fundamental to unlocking investment, driving regeneration, and ensuring sustainable growth across South Yorkshire. The insights gathered from this survey will provide invaluable evidence to help the Business Advisory Board understand the challenges businesses face and identify where improvements are needed.
“By working closely with our partners, we can advocate for a system that is more efficient, transparent, and supportive of the region’s economic ambitions. I strongly encourage businesses to take part—your feedback will directly inform the changes needed to create a more business-friendly planning environment.”
AI ‘lifeguard’ earns prize for Bradford student
A man studying for an Executive MBA at the University of Bradford for his work in developing Deep Blue, which uses an artificial intelligence algorithm to track dozens of swimmers using existing camera networks and highlight potential drownings.
Karl Bay, 44, has won the prestigious Start-Up of the Year Award 2025 in the AMBA & BGA Excellence Awards 2025.
He said: “Winning this award is recognition for the vision we had for this product and the hard work we have put in. This is a prime example of how AI can enhance our lives. It is not being used to replace humans but to augment their capabilities.”
Deep Blue is able to track dozens of swimmers at any one time and has been ‘trained’ to spot potential drowning events or swimmers who get into difficulty – if it does detect something untoward, it alerts lifeguards.
Karl, who was born in Lebanon and has made a career out of developing start-ups, explained: “We will always need lifeguards at swimming pools and beaches. This system is not meant to replace them but to help them. Obviously, there is a limit to the number of people any person can keep track of, on top of which there are other variables such as attention spans and environmental factors.
“Developing a system that is able to track swimmers who are in the sea is extremely complex, because you have to take account of all kinds of variables, such as swimmers disappearing behind waves, or going under the water for a period of time, and so on, but we have developed a mathematical model that works.
“Deep Blue is able to watch all of the swimmers all of the time and send alerts to wristwatches worn by lifeguards whenever it spots something unusual. We have also trained those lifeguards taking part in the trials to be able to read the computer screens so they can identify the problem and act accordingly.”
Karl, who is also the COO of another tech start-up, said he and his two business partners beat two other companies to clinch the Dubai government trials.
The father-of-two said he chose the Executive MBA for its subject content and the ability to forge new contacts.
“I chose Bradford’s Executive MBA because of the subjects on offer. I already run my own companies but I have still learned new skills and my cohort is packed full of people at the top of their game who bring with them unique insights, so from a networking perspective, it has been very useful.”
Interim Dean of the School of Management Professor Saeed Akbar accepted the award on Karl’s behalf, and said: “This is a tremendous achievement for Karl and we’re pleased he has found our Executive MBA to be so beneficial. Karl is a shining example to our students. We’re also pleased to be associated with the Association of MBAs and Business Graduates Association (AMBA & BGA) Awards. Our School of Management is one of the top 1% in the world to hold triple-accreditation, including from AMBA.”
University of Huddersfield’s Institute of Railway Research appoints two key Visiting Professors
The University of Huddersfield’s renowned Institute of Railway Research (IRR) has appointed two key Visiting Professors from the railway industry.
The move aims to further translate its research activity into real-world technology solutions and to develop new modelling tools to support a predict and prevent railway asset management strategy. Andy Doherty, Chief Technology Officer at the Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE), begins his new role at the University in February this year. He will work alongside the IRR leadership team to define a long-term research plan that will seek to align the work of the Institute with the £200m investment plans for the GCRE railway system proving ground. The partnership will focus on supporting the implementation of next-generation railway technology solutions for both UK and international railway administrations. Professor Doherty has been one of the driving forces behind the creation of GCRE in South Wales, where he currently oversees the technology strategy. GCRE will be a facility for world-class rail and mobility research, testing and showcasing of rolling stock, infrastructure and innovative new technologies. The site will be built around a state-of-the-art 6.9km high-speed test track and 4.5km lower speed high-tonnage line. He is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineers, with more than four decades of experience in the industry. Until the autumn of 2020, Professor Doherty was Chief Rail Technology Officer for Network Rail and has held visiting Chairs at the University of Southampton and Cranfield University. With an aim to advance the state of the art in wheel-rail damage prediction modelling, Professor Doherty is joined by Professor Mark Burstow, Senior Technical Fellow and Principal Vehicle Track Dynamics Engineer at Network Rail (NR), who was appointed a Visiting Professor at the IRR in November 2024. Professor Burstow is a specialist in vehicle-track interaction, with extensive knowledge in wheel-rail damage prediction. His fundamental research work underpinned the learning from the tragic rail accident at Hatfield in 2000, where the underlying cause was found to be rolling contact fatigue (RCF) of the rail head, ultimately leading to a complete fracture of the rail section and consequential fatal train derailment. Professor Burstow developed internationally recognised models for RCF and wear, which have resulted in RCF crack detection and mitigation strategies that have dramatically reduced the risk of rail breaks. Professor Paul Allen, Director of the Institute of Railway Research (IRR) at the University of Huddersfield commented: “We are delighted to be in the position to attract the support of two extremely capable and respected railway engineers. As an ex-NR Board member, Andy brings a wealth of experience in strategic management, together with a passion and proven track record in driving a research and innovation culture in the rail industry. His appointment comes at a formative stage in the development of GCRE and we are very much looking forward to beginning the journey in strategically aligning and applying the world-leading specialist capabilities at the IRR with the global vision for rail system innovation and proving at GCRE. “As a senior practising engineer at NR, holding a Doctorate and extensive research track record in the numerical modelling of fracture in metals, Mark will be an invaluable asset in assisting the IRR team to further extend its modelling tools and capabilities in wheel-rail damage prediction. Initial work will seek to increase understanding of the influence of high temperatures generated between the wheel and rail on wear and surface damage. As an industrial research partner for over 20 years, we very much welcome the opportunity for Mark to contribute directly to our research and support both staff and doctoral research students in their work.” Professor Doherty commented: “I’m genuinely delighted to be joining the Institute of Railway Research at the University of Huddersfield. Cutting-edge research, technology development and working collaboratively with innovation teams and students are things I have always loved doing in my career and I’m looking forward to contributing to the vital work the institute does. “It’s great to be joining at such a pivotal time for the rail industry. Across the UK and internationally, rail has a significant role to play in supporting our path to net zero and stimulating economic growth, but that requires new ideas, faster deployment of innovations and more cost-effective ways of developing infrastructure. These are areas where the institute plays a vital role and so I’m looking forward to getting started.” Professor Mark Burstow commented: “Having worked alongside academia in developing knowledge and modelling tools for the prediction of wheel-rail surface damage throughout my career, I was delighted the University of Huddersfield and colleagues at the Institute of Railway Research were able to offer me the position of Visiting Professor. With several research ideas already on the table, I am excited to get started in working more closely with the IRR team.”Quality construction earns recognition at Chamber of Commerce Awards
The construction and property industries gathered at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Lincoln on 6th February for the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce Construction and Property Awards 2025.
The 2025 Award Winners:
Apprentice/Graduate of the Year: Sophie Vanstone & Alex Wilding
Client Advisor of the Year: Ben Martin Project Management Ltd
Design Consultant of the Year: STEM architects
Development Project of the Year (Over £5m): Lindum Group – Cornhill Market Hall
Development Project of the Year (Under £5m): Belvin Construction Ltd – Lincolnshire Co-op’s Laceby Food Store. Influence Landscape Planning and Design – Tower Gardens, Skegness (Highly Commended)
Residential Development Project of the Year: R G Carter – Diamond Place, Welton
Residential Single Dwelling Project of the Year: Old School Architects – Holbeck Stables
Employer of the Year: Lindum Group
The event was a showcase of the incredible talent and expertise that defines the future of construction and property, bringing together a diverse group of individuals and businesses committed to shaping the landscape for years to come.
Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce CEO Simon Beardsley said: “A special thanks to all of our sponsors, partners, and guests who made this event such a success: Wilmott Dixon, Lincoln College, Acts Trust, Cash for Kids, Waldeck Consulting, UK Alternative Energy, Tradeglaze, Shakespeare Martineau, Evolve Geo, Viridis Building Services Ltd, Simons Design and RG Carter.
The awards not only celebrate the individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond in their respective categories but also highlight the continued growth and evolution of the construction and property industries.”
Bridge design error leads to a year’s delay and millions more in cost
A design error about the installation of a bridge over the River Witham and the East Coast main line will delay completion of the Grantham relief road and add millions to the cost.
County Councillor Richard Davies said: “The complexities of designing and constructing this relief road, particularly this bridge, are far beyond what we as a council can do directly.
“That’s why top international engineering companies and experienced contractors were entrusted to handle the project. Although we oversee the scheme as a whole, we rely on our suppliers’ combined expertise.
“When undertaking a project of the magnitude, all design work also undergoes a mandatory, additional layer of independent checking. Unfortunately, despite all of this, a mistake was made along the way that’s led to this new delay.
“This mistake related to the how the bridge was to be installed, and us being told it couldn’t be pushed into place as intended due to concerns relating to specific wind conditions.
“Safety comes first, so the work was halted so our designers and contractors could address the problem.
“We’ve done everything you could reasonably expect us to do as the client for the scheme, but we feel we’ve been let down. The important thing is that the details of the solution are nearly finalised, meaning we can start pushing the bridge into place in the coming months.”
The relief road is now expected to open in 2026, a year later than expected, with rectification expected to cost up to £20m, bringing the project’s expected total to £158-168 million.
Cllr Davies said: “Let me be 100% clear: while we may need to cover these extra costs initially, we will ensure that those responsible for this are held accountable and that every penny of taxpayer money will be recovered.
“We are pursuing contractual and legal processes as a result of this error so are unable to comment any further on this at this stage for legal reasons.
“For now, our priority now is getting this massive project back on track as soon as possible – and that means continuing to work closely with our appointed contractor and designers.”
Once it begins, the bridge push over the 293-metre span will take several months as it crosses the rail line during periods when trains have stopped running.
The rest of the structure will then be built on the east side of site, including lifting new steel beams into place.
Several more months will then be spent concreting the decks, installing safety barriers, and laying road surfacing.
Cllr Davies ended: “While this new delay is incredibly disappointing, we remain 100% committed to completing Grantham’s relief road.
“As a local resident and business owner, I understand and share the frustration this delay will cause. But safety comes first, and even the smallest risk must be taken extremely seriously.
“In the meantime, I want to thank everyone for their continued patience as we work towards completing this monumental project.”
Leeds Beckett and ARC creating ‘digital golden thread’ for building safety
Digital construction experts at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) are teaming up with Leeds-based ARC Building Solutions to create an innovative new ‘digital golden thread’ to proactively address key recommendations for the construction sector – following the Grenfell tragedy – to ensure that fire prevention products are correctly installed by sub-contractors and developers on building sites.
The project is a 33-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK. LBU experts will support ARC in creating the bespoke quality and installation monitoring product – which will use AI predictive models and data monitoring to ensure the highest quality of building product installation and automate the identification of incorrect or faulty installations.
ARC is the UK’s leading manufacturer of cavity fire barriers and cavity closers, supplying many of the UK’s leading contractors and developers who install their products within housing developments.
The KTP is led by Saheed Ajayi, Professor of Digital Construction and Project Management in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing at LBU. Professor Ajayi said: “Using the unique expertise of our Construction Informatics and Digital Enterprise Laboratory (CIDEL) at LBU, we will support ARC in creating the ARC Remote Quality Monitoring (ARQM), which will provide an interactive two-way feedback loop and build a database of key information about building products and installation. This KTP supports a significant step towards addressing the need in the construction sector for a digital golden thread, whilst enabling ARC to position themselves ahead in the sector.”
George Danzey-Smith, Director of Commercial and Technical at ARC, said: “We have identified that monitoring installation with certifiable compliance is likely to become a ‘must’ in the construction sector. Building the ARQM supports our strategic ambition to be the first in our sector to proactively address and meet key recommendations within the Hackitt Report – the independent review of building regulations, particularly their impact on fire safety following the Grenfell tragedy. The innovative new solution will support our ambition to achieve more regulated assurance that our fire prevention products are correctly installed by sub-contractors and developers.”
Specialist contractor starts work on leisure facility in east Hull
Contractors High-Low Ropes Course Consulting Ltd have broken ground this week to build a high ropes course at Hull Adventure Centre in east Hull.
The first planned stage will see a unique 20-pole high ropes course that will be incorporated over the karting track at Hull Adventure Centre to give an exclusive experience as people explore and undertake challenging obstacles in the air whilst karts race below them.
The course will culminate in a 100m zip line to provide an exciting finale for customers.
Additions will also feature special team building facilities, including a Jacob’s Ladder and crate stack, to enable Hull Adventure Centre to work with a variety of different groups from across the community including schools, youth groups, the voluntary sector and businesses.
Assisted Living Leeds headquarters to get final green light
Senior councillors in Leeds will be asked to give the final go-ahead for enhanced new headquarters for the Assisted Living Leeds service, which helps people with health issues to live in their own homes, at a meeting next week.
At the meeting of the council’s executive board at Civic Hall on Wednesday 12 February, councillors will be asked to approve £3.4 million of funding to allow the refurbishment of the service’s new base at Waterside Road in Stourton to complete a £9 million investment overall in the new facility.
The service is currently based at Clarence Road, a 1960s building which requires increasing ongoing maintenance. With the service also growing due to demand, in 2019 the council approved £5.6 million for the acquisition of the new site at Waterside Road after assessing possible new locations in the city.
The new site will offer high-quality modern accommodation and due to its layout also offers significant operational benefits which will help to improve the efficiency of service delivery and customer service. It will also help to future-proof the service for the coming years.
Leeds City Council executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, Councillor Salma Arif said: “We are delighted that we are now in a position to get the refurbishment of the new Assisted Living Leeds headquarters underway as once completed it will bring significant benefits for our city and its residents.
“The Assisting Living Leeds service provides an essential and invaluable lifeline to support people of all ages to be able to live healthy, happy and productive independent lives at home, and this move to its new location will enable it to continue to grow stronger and stronger helping even more people for years to come.”
Should approval be given for the refurbishment to proceed, the new headquarters would be scheduled to open in January 2026.
The new building when open will also become home to the council’s flood risk management team.
Kingston Engineering invests in new machines
Kingston Engineering is a leading precision engineering company, expert in the manufacturing of bespoke and purpose-built precision components and assemblies. Established in Hull in 1919, Kingston Engineering’s success is based on continuously moving the business forward and embracing new technologies.
There has been continuous investment in cutting-edge machines, in-house facilities, and precision technologies at the Kingston Engineering site, based on Pennington Street. Kingston Engineering recently announced that it will continue investing in new machines throughout 2025, with two new machines scheduled to arrive in the company’s first quarter.
Kingston Engineering provides precision engineering solutions to UK and global customers. The company is proud to provide advanced, ultra-precision components that empower innovations in so many industries like medicine, pharmaceuticals, energy, aerospace, space exploration, and manufacturing. As the demand for complex shapes, features and precision accuracy levels increases, Kingston Engineering is well-placed to fulfil the requirements of modern industry.
With a strong heritage of precision manufacturing expertise, backed by a policy of continued investment, Kingston Engineering is leading the curve and shaping precision engineering of the future.
To find out more about Kingston Engineering email sales@kingston-engineering.co.uk or visit: www.kingston-engineering.co.uk
Small business growth forecasts fall for the first time since July 2024
The percentage of UK small business owners predicting growth (33%) has dipped to a nine-month low, according to the latest quarterly data from Novuna Business Finance. Whilst 45% see Q1 as a standstill period, there is a four-year high in the percentage of small businesses saying they will contract by the end of March (13%) and the percentage of enterprises that fear closure in the next three months has hit a two-year peak (8%).
The findings are from Novuna Business Finance’s Business Barometer study, which has tracked the growth forecasts of more than 1,000 small business owners every quarter for the last 11 years. Following the Bank of England cutting interest rates and reducing its economic growth forecasts for 2025, the new Novuna Business Finance data reveals that UK small business owners are already gearing up for contraction, with major falls in growth forecasts already registered across many key regions – where there has been abrupt change since the start of 2025.
- In London the percentage of small business owners predicting growth has plummeted from 57% to 39% in just three months – presenting a two-year low point in confidence for enterprises in the Capital (since Q2 2023
- The North East was one of the regions that saw a post-election resurgence in small business confidence during the second half of 2025. This quarter, the percentage of North East small business owners that predict growth has fallen sharply back from 36% to 25%.
- A similar picture emerges for the East Midlands, where growth forecasts have fallen from 37% to 31% since last quarter
- Growth forecasts are a serious concern in the South West and Wales, these two regions now falling significantly behind all other UK regions (17% and 16%).
- Scotland bucks the trend prevalent in England. For Q1 2025, the percentage of small business owners predicting growth has hit a five-year high at 36% (the highest figure in Scotland since Q3 2019)
Double election impact?
Whilst the latest data suggests the confidence boost that followed the new UK Government taking office last July has now worn off, the new US administration taking office has also been met with concern in recent weeks. An additional Novuna Business Finance survey found that more than seven in 10 small businesses (77%) said they were fearful of how the new US administration could have a ripple effect for UK small businesses in 2025. Chief among small business concerns were the possibility of tariffs on UK exports to the USA (43%) and concern over the impact on UK economic growth forecasts and interest rates (33%).
Sector analysis
Whilst growth outlook held firm in many sectors, Q1 2025 saw significant falls in small business growth outlook for the manufacturing, retail, IT and hospitality sectors. Growth outlook in manufacturing fell to its lowest level since Q4 2023.
Joanna Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance comments: “Over the last 11 years, our research suggests that small businesses are remarkably resilient when it comes to their quarterly growth forecasts. The fall for this quarter represents a reverse on a gradual upward trend over the previous six months. Of concern are signs of more small businesses predicting contraction for the next three months – and some even fearing closure.
“From the Business Barometer study over the last decade, it is clear that there are often fine margins between businesses that predict growth or contraction and decline. Now is a time for small businesses to be supported, so caution and contraction can be replaced by confidence and belief. At Novuna Business Finance, we are serious about helping established small businesses put plans in place to achieve their true potential and, midst the market uncertainty, small business confidence this year will be key to the new Government delivering on its pledge to deliver economic growth.”
150-year-old Leeds manufacturer powers up sustainability
A Leeds-based manufacturer is accelerating its sustainability journey with the installation of cutting-edge technology which will half its energy consumption, thanks to funding from Lloyds.
Kingfisher Lubrication, a manufacturer of grease fittings for various sectors including the aerospace industry, is making a major leap in sustainability with the purchase of a machine used in manufacturing that enhances production efficiency.
This advanced equipment, named the Index MS24-6 Lathe, will cut energy costs by up to 50% for certain products, streamline production by reducing the number of machines required and significantly lower overall power consumption – all while boosting efficiency and product quality.
This investment will enable Kingfisher to expand its operations, diversify its product range and strengthen its workforce’s capabilities. Plans include hiring new talent, such as a new multi-skilled development engineer, and enhancing team capabilities through upskilling initiatives.
Lloyds’ Clean Growth Financing Initiative (CGFI) armed the manufacturer with a £1 million funding package to support the purchase of the new machine.
This builds on the firm’s investment into technology last year, also supported by Lloyds, which saw the manufacturer install a solar PV system across approximately one-third of its roof space, powering 30% of its production with renewable energy.
Serving global giants like JCB, Kingfisher is setting the standard for other manufacturers to follow suit.
Chris Ryan, Financial Controller at Kingfisher Lubrication, said: “We’re dedicated to making our operations as sustainable as possible and are always looking for ways to achieve this. Thanks to Lloyds’ ongoing support, we can continue to grow responsibly and meet our clients’ environmental expectations.
“It’s a win-win, really – being more energy efficient not only increases our cost efficiency but also allows us to be a more sustainable employer in a sector that is on an environmental journey.
“Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our product portfolio and cement our position as a world-leading supplier of high-quality grease fittings.”
Scott Hickling, Relationship Manager at Lloyds, said: “Kingfisher is catapulting its 150-year-old business into a new sustainable future.
“Chris and the team at Kingfisher are leading the way in sustainable manufacturing, demonstrating how sustainability and business growth go hand-in-hand.
“We’re proud to support Kingfisher on their journey and encourage other manufacturers to explore opportunities to innovate and reduce their environmental impact. I’d also like to thank my colleague John Hinchliffe whose expertise has been instrumental in helping Kingfisher achieve this next step.”
Immingham Green Energy Terminal granted development consent
The Immingham Green Energy Terminal application has been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.
Planning consent granted for energy hub project in Doncaster
Planning consent has been granted for Innova’s Almholme Energy Hub project by Doncaster Council.
With a 1025MW/2050MWh energy storage capacity and a 49.9MW solar capacity, this is the second largest battery storage project in the UK to gain planning consent to date.
The site will be able to store enough energy to power over 37,000 homes in Doncaster for an entire week and will generate enough electricity to power over 15,000 homes in Doncaster every year.
By storing excess energy generated during periods of high renewable generation, the project will help balance the grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enhance national energy security, providing a sustainable solution to the nation’s growing demand for clean and reliable power.
The site has been designed to incorporate a range of biodiversity enhancements that are in excess of the mandatory 10% requirement. This includes a predicted increase of 82% in habitat units, 132% in hedgerow units, and 16% in watercourse units.
Additionally, a community benefit fund is being established to support local incentives throughout the project’s life span.
Rob Parish, Senior Project Manager at Innova, said: “We are proud to announce that Almholme Energy Hub has gained planning consent. This state-of-the-art facility will provide much-needed energy storage capacity, ensuring that renewable energy sources such as wind and solar are effectively harnessed and distributed.
“As a result, it will play a significant role in helping the UK achieve its clean energy goals, accelerating the transition to renewable power and ensuring a more resilient, sustainable, and affordable energy system for generations to come.”
Yorkshire battery storage project secures planning consent
Fidra Energy, a European battery energy storage system (BESS) platform headquartered in Edinburgh, has secured planning consent to build and operate its flagship battery storage site at Thorpe Marsh, Yorkshire. The 1,400MW (3,100MWh) project will be one of the largest in Europe.
The project was approved by Doncaster Council on 28 January 2025 and will create jobs during construction and operation of the facility.
It will include the supply of containers of lithium-ion based battery systems by Sungrow which, once completed, is expected to have enough capacity to power up to 800,000 homes during peak hours of electricity demand.
The project is being developed on ~55 acres of land that formed part of a former coal station site and adjacent to an existing National Grid substation. A final investment decision is expected in April 2025 with the first battery systems expected to be operational in early 2027.
Chris Elder, Fidra Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Thorpe Marsh is one of the most exciting infrastructure projects in the world and we are delighted to have achieved this important milestone in its development phase.
“As the largest battery energy storage site in the UK, the project will help turbocharge the UK’s ambitions of achieving a clean power system providing critical flexibility to store energy when there is excess renewable generation and release this when needed.”
Walid Mouawad, Managing Director and Co-Head of Energy Transition at EIG, said: “We are thrilled to see the 1.4GW Thorpe Marsh project reach another critical development milestone. This represents a significant step in EIG’s commitment to advancing large-scale energy assets in the UK and driving the country’s shift to a more sustainable, low-carbon future.”
Ideal wins award for commitment to employee wellbeing
Hull-based Ideal Heating has won a national manufacturing award in recognition of its commitment to employee wellbeing.
Scunthorpe firm start work on £7m sports ground development in Goole
Work has started on the first phase of a £7m refurbishment scheme at the Goole’s Victoria Pleasure Ground has officially begun.
Scunthorpe-based Britcon, the main contractor for the project, has been on site since November 2024 carrying out preparatory work, but this week the demolition of the old stand and buildings began. This will be followed by the construction of a brand new, state-of-the-art, two-storey pavilion offering both internal and external viewing for spectators, as well as modern changing facilities, a kitchen, offices, a first aid room, a physiotherapy room, a cafe and a 160-seat conference and hospitality suite capable of hosting sporting, corporate and social events. The new layout will also significantly increase on-site parking.
Nick Shepherd, Britcon’s MD, said: “We will use best practice from previous sustainable leisure projects to minimise our impact and use regional suppliers wherever possible to maximise social value outcomes and local spend.”
As part of a second phase of work due to be carried out later in the year, a new, full-size, artificial 3G pitch and compact athletics facilities will be installed by S & C Slatter Ltd, a contractor specialising in sports facilities of this nature.
Goole Town Council Clerk Brian Robertson, said: “It’s a very exciting day for everyone involved with this project. The end product is going to be far bigger and better than anything we could ever have envisaged being able to provide for local teams, groups and organisations to use. It will undoubtedly make an enormous difference to the sports teams that already play at the VPG, as well as hundreds of local children who play for grassroots teams but currently have to travel outside Goole for training and many other local groups and organisations that will be able to make use of the new and improved facilities.
“Working closely with Britcon, we’ll be doing our utmost to keep disruption to user groups and nearby residents to a minimum over the coming weeks and months, but we’d ask everyone to bear with us as we work to deliver sports facilities that the town can be proud of, and which will undoubtedly help to bring more people into the town centre, boosting the local economy.”
Phil Jones, Chair of the Goole Town Deal Board, said: “Due to genuine fears for the long-term viability of the Victoria Pleasure Ground, as a Board we chose to prioritise its redevelopment as part of our strategic proposals to reinvigorate the town centre by allocating it a share of the town’s £25 million in Town Deal funding.
“Working with Goole Town Council and specialist consultants Steve Wells Associates, who brought their vast experience of developing top class sporting venues nationally to the project, we developed a visionary business case for the Victoria Pleasure Ground and it’s wonderful to see those ambitious plans now coming to fruition as demolition and building work gets underway.”
The venue is owned by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and leased long-term to Goole Town Council.
Work to start soon on Harrogate hospital enhancement
Work on the new Day Case Surgery and Imaging Centre at Harrogate District Hospital is due to start in the next few weeks.
Developed by Race Cottam Associates working with Morgan Sindall Construction has signed the building contract with Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust.
Following planning approval at the end of last year and the successful demolition of the existing Therapy Services building – part of efforts to remove RAAC from the estate – construction is set to begin in the coming weeks.
The two-storey facility, linked to the existing hospital street, will provide state-of-the-art surgical and imaging services. It will house two new operating theatres, two minor procedures treatment rooms, a dedicated day case ward, and an advanced imaging department.
Kirsty Pearson, Senior Project Architect at Race Cottam Associates, said: “It has been a pleasure working with all members of the team and we look forward to seeing the project come to life over the next few months. Thank you to everyone who has helped get the project to this point so far.“
Yorkshire Building Society names new Chief Commercial Officer
Yorkshire Building Society has appointed Simon Watson as Chief Commercial Officer, and he’ll join the company in May after 14 years with NatWest Group.
Currently MD of Affluent Banking & Investing, he has held a number of senior leadership positions spanning personal and private banking, digital transformation, corporate affairs, brand and customer propositions.
Susan Allen, the society’s Chief Exec, said: “Simon combines creative, commercial and strategic expertise with a strong focus on colleague and customer engagement.
“He understands and shares our vision for the Society and I am confident he will help drive our success as we continue to grow and support more people to find a place to call home and build financial wellbeing.”
Simon said: “It’s clear to me that Yorkshire Building Society has a proud history, great customer engagement, and committed colleagues. It is a mutual with ambitious plans to grow and help more people, and I’m thrilled at the opportunity to be part of the team that shapes its next chapter.”
