Yorkshire manufacturers face biggest drop in confidence since lockdowns

April Lara
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Yorkshire manufacturers face biggest drop in confidence since lockdowns

According to new data from the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, business optimism in Yorkshire’s manufacturing sector has fallen to its lowest point since the COVID-19 lockdowns.

The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for Q1 2025 highlights a significant decline in performance among manufacturers, with both domestic and international sales reported to be down. Many businesses are responding by implementing job cuts and recruitment freezes. Order books are at their weakest since 2020, and export activity has also seen a downturn.

In contrast, the region’s service sector has experienced a more positive quarter, with stronger domestic sales, increased investment intentions, and rising confidence in future profitability. The service sector’s performance has exceeded the national average in some areas.

Taxation continues to be the most pressing financial challenge for businesses, with the cost of labour also consistently identified as a major concern. The survey was conducted just before upcoming increases in National Insurance Contributions and the Minimum Wage and the threat of new US tariffs on global trade.

Leisure centre closures spark concerns over unpaid memberships

April Lara
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Leisure centre closures spark concerns over unpaid memberships

Two public leisure centres in Lincoln have shut down following the collapse of Active Nation, the charity responsible for their management. The centres affected are Yarborough and Birchwood, which were owned by the City of Lincoln Council. The charity attributed the closures to the ongoing utility crisis and the financial pressures it has created.

Active Nation confirmed the centres would remain closed indefinitely, with no alternative operators secured. The City of Lincoln Council, which owns the buildings, expressed disappointment and stated it was evaluating potential solutions. However, members with prepaid memberships have raised concerns, fearing they may lose their money due to the lack of receipts or assurances regarding refunds.

The City of Lincoln Council advised those affected to contact their bank or card provider for potential refunds. Meanwhile, the Lincoln 10K event, scheduled to take place on Sunday, will still proceed as planned from the Yarborough Leisure Centre despite its closure.

Active Nation, which also operated leisure facilities in Southampton and Aldershot, acknowledged the disappointment caused by the closures but noted the inability to find a new operator as a key factor in the decision.

Wise reports strong customer growth and £1.4bn income forecast

April Lara
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Wise reports strong customer growth and £1.4bn income forecast

Wise, the UK-based fintech known for international money transfers, has forecast solid growth for its current financial year, driven by a sharp increase in customer numbers and revenue.

The company expects a 21% rise in active customers, reaching 15 million globally, and projects underlying income to grow by 16% to £1.4 billion. However, it anticipates a one percentage point decline in profit margin.

Wise is targeting underlying income growth of 15–20% for the 2026 financial year, with pre-tax profit margins expected to hit the higher end of its guidance range.

In its most recent quarterly update, cross-border transaction volumes climbed 24% year-on-year to £37.8 billion, while card and other revenue surged 39% due to greater product adoption.

To protect shareholders from dilution, Wise plans to reduce the share purchases by its Employee Benefit Trust, addressing legacy stock-based compensation equivalent to roughly 25 million shares.

The company has also reaffirmed its reclassification under the FCA’s overhauled UK listing regime, officially shifting to the Equity Shares Category as of July 2024.

18th Century hotel to be sold in Skegness

Tess Egginton
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18th Century hotel to be sold in Skegness
The Vine Hotel, a guest house and event venue in Skegness, is to be sold. Dating back to 1770 and reported to be the oldest property in Skegness, The Vine Hotel comprises 25 ensuite bedrooms, a restaurant, two bars, and function spaces, set within 3 acres of lawned gardens and outside dining areas including five dining pods. The property also has planning permission for a further 20 letting bedrooms which could be created under new ownership. The Vine Hotel is known for its connection to poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, and is home to ‘Tennyson’s Tree’, where he is known to have written much of his work. The hotel was acquired by the current owners over 10 years ago, and has since undergone significant investment and development. Matt Hill, Senior Business Agent at Christie & Co who is managing the sale, said: “The Vine Hotel is a busy, successful and historic Hotel, Bar and Restaurant which we are proud to be marketing and would be an asset to any owner’s portfolio. “The opportunity also offers further potential as there is granted planning permission for 20 additional lettings bedrooms within the ground of around 3 acres.” The Vine Hotel is on the market with an asking price of £1,795,000.

Evri trials robot couriers to improve delivery efficiency

April Lara
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Evri trials robot couriers to improve delivery efficiency

UK courier company Evri is set to trial a four-legged robot delivery assistant this summer. Developed by Swiss AI firm RIVR, the robot will work alongside couriers, hopping in and out of vans to assist with parcel deliveries. The trial assesses how automation can support couriers in physically demanding tasks while improving operational efficiency.

Evri is also testing a compact electric delivery robot in Barnsley, developed by Delivers AI. The small autonomous vehicle will operate from the Barnsley Business Innovation Centre, working with local couriers for a three-month trial. Residents on selected streets in Barnsley can opt-in via a dedicated website to receive deliveries from the robots, which can operate 24/7, enabling nighttime and on-demand services.

The company emphasised that automation will not replace human couriers but is being explored to enhance service speed, convenience, and accessibility.

APSS reveals new management structure to drive next phase of growth

Tess Egginton
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APSS reveals new management structure to drive next phase of growth
Lincolnshire-based commercial design and fit out company, APSS, has appointed Richard Mycroft as its new Managing Director, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the business. Richard will lead the business with the support of Stuart Wall, Design Director, and Hannah Stockdale, Finance Director, as APSS continues to strengthen its position in the market. As part of this transition, Laurence Barrass assumes the role of Chairman, ensuring continuity and strategic guidance for the company’s future growth and development. Stuart Marsland will also continue as Sales Director. Richard Mycroft brings extensive experience within the construction industry and leadership expertise to his new role, having already played a key part in APSS’s success over the years. He first joined APSS in 2013 before becoming Operations Manager in 2021 and later progressing to Operations Director in 2022. Richard’s vast knowledge of the fit-out industry ensures smooth project delivery for customers, reinforcing APSS’s reputation for excellence. Stuart Wall, who has been with APSS for 12 years, started as a Lead Designer and was promoted to Design Director in 2022. His innovative approach and industry expertise have been instrumental in shaping the cutting-edge designs APSS is known for. His creative vision, combined with Richard’s operational expertise, ensures APSS continues to deliver high-quality, functional, and impressive interior solutions. Hannah Stockdale, who has been an integral part of APSS for the past seven years, plays a crucial role in the company’s financial strategy and stability. Together, Richard, Stuart, and Hannah form a strong leadership team, ensuring APSS thrives in the next phase of its growth. Richard said: “I am honoured to step into the role of Managing Director at such an important time for APSS. With the support of our talented team, we’ll continue to drive the company forward, delivering outstanding results for our customers while upholding the values that have made APSS a trusted name in the industry.” Laurence Barrass shared his thoughts on his new position as Chairman: “It is a privilege to take on this role and to support Richard and the leadership team in steering APSS towards a successful future. I have every confidence in Richard’s ability to lead the company, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and development of the business.”

Helmsley Group sees significant office uptake in York

Tess Egginton
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Helmsley Group sees significant office uptake in York
Helmsley Group has secured 42,000 sq ft of prime office lettings in York, marking a significant boost in the city’s office market. The property investment and development specialist said that demand for office space in York has seen a resurgence as businesses return to in person and hybrid working models. Recent lettings include co-working space business Patch opening its first York site in the Grade II-listed Bonding Warehouse, flexible workspace provider Wizu leasing 24,500 sq ft of East Coast House and NHS service provider Nimbuscare Ltd moving into Holgate Business Park’s Gateway 1. These successes follow York-based Helmsley Group’s recent planning approval for the transformation of the city’s Coney Street. The regeneration of this area will see the creation of Coney Street Riverside, bringing extensive public realm and 250,000 sq ft of mixed-use retail, leisure, commercial and residential space to the heart of York. Head of Asset Management at Helmsley Group, Alexia Swift-Cookson, said: “It’s been fantastic to see increased demand for office space in York and we’re proud to be providing national brands and organisations with offices in York. “In reaction to changing workplace models impacted by the pandemic, we look forward to continuing this momentum, bringing workers back into the city and reaping the benefits this will bring to local businesses and the city’s economy.” Head of Commercial Agency at Colenso Property, James Ratcliffe, added: “In today’s landscape, businesses are looking for a sense of community and reasons why employees will want to be in the office. “With developments like Coney Street Riverside on the horizon, we’re seeing more and more businesses looking to get back into the hub of the city and to be in and amongst York’s vibrant community.” Chair of the York and North Yorkshire Chamber Property and Economic Forum, Steve Secker said: “These deals demonstrate that York is a fantastic place for an office, feedback which is echoed by many of our members. “We commend Helmsley Group on securing these strong lettings and for its positive work across the city, including on its forthcoming Coney Street Riverside development. “There is a strong demand for high-quality office space in the city and this is backed up with progress on the York Central regeneration project, which will create more new office and commercial space.” Work is expected to begin on the first zone of Coney Street Riverside this summer, regenerating an underused area of the city to create a public realm of national and international standing.

Wykeland acquires landmark Grimsby site and announces new investment

Michael Fisher
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Wykeland acquires landmark Grimsby site and announces new investment
Leading Hull-based commercial developer Wykeland Group has acquired a landmark site in Grimsby and announced new investment is on its way. Wykeland has purchased the former Ramsdens Superstore site from the Grimsby-based retail and cash and carry business Ramsden Group and, as the new owner, will take the lead in rejuvenating it. That has already begun with Wykeland announcing that, in a linked transaction, a deal has been agreed to sell part of the site to family-owned retailer Farmfoods, for the development of a new 15,000 sq ft store with car parking. The sale of just over an acre of land to Farmfoods is subject to full planning permission for the new frozen food and groceries store. A planning application has been submitted and, if approved, the store is expected to create up to 15-20 new jobs. Wykeland will retain the remaining 1.8 acres and explore opportunities to attract further investment and regeneration, while investing around £100,000 to improve the site, including structural repairs to a property fronting Cleethorpe Road. Wykeland has also renamed the development as Ramsden Park, in tribute to the site’s history as the place where the Ramsden Group business was founded, with the opening of the Ramsdens store in 1946. Ramsden Group and Wykeland have previously secured investment by coffee house chain Starbucks in a drive-thru and eat-in café on the corner of the site facing Cleethorpe Road and Park Street. The Starbucks facility has traded successfully for more than three years. Now, with Farmfoods also coming on board, Wykeland is exploring further opportunities to revitalise the site. Wykeland Development Director Jonathan Stubbs said: “We’re pleased to announce we have acquired the site from Ramsden Group and have also concluded a deal, subject to planning consent, to bring in new investment from one of the UK’s most popular food retailers. As well as supporting Farmfoods through the planning process, we’ll be investing in improvements on site and exploring further development opportunities. We’re committed to the regeneration of this important location on the main route between Grimsby and Cleethorpes and keen to hear from investors who would like to work with us to realise its potential.”

Aspire Furniture secures new 56,400 sq ft warehouse in Leeds

Tess Egginton
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Aspire Furniture secures new 56,400 sq ft warehouse in Leeds
Aspire Furniture, the bespoke wholesaler specialising in beds, mattresses, and bedroom furniture, has signed a three-year lease on a 56,400 sq ft warehouse facility in Leeds. Owned and managed by commercial and industrial property specialist Towngate PLC, the new facility will significantly expand Aspire’s storage capacity and streamline its growing operations. The news comes just one year after the business secured a £500,000 trade loan from NatWest to extend its UK footprint overseas. Aspire has seen near-constant growth over the past decade, evolving from a small operation in a spare bedroom to a multi-channel business with a thriving e-commerce platform, an annual turnover of approximately £22 million, and more than 100 employees. Partnering with major retailers including Argos, NEXT, Very, Dunlem, Furniture Village, and Mattress Online, the company combines a large-scale design, manufacturing, and whitelabelling service with a curated off-the-shelf range via Aspire Store, catering to both industry giants and direct customers. The new, Towngate PLC-owned facility will play a central role in supporting Aspire’s sales, providing the infrastructure and resources needed to meet rising demand. Due to its proximity to Aspire’s manufacturing facility in Leeds, the site will also drive greater efficiencies throughout Aspire’s logistics and operations. Ben Dobson, operations director at Aspire Furniture Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to be moving to Copperworks 2. This milestone is a significant step forward for Aspire, enabling us to expand our operations and enhance our warehousing capacity to support the next stage of our growth – particularly in the e-commerce market, where we’re constantly innovating and investing to offer an even better experience in the online furniture market.” Tom Lamb, property director at Towngate PLC, added: “As one of the region’s most recognised industrial locations, our Copperworks site is proudly positioned within our specialist property portfolio. “The unit is located in the heart of Yorkshire’s motorway network, just minutes from Leeds City Centre and nearby railway links, and offers excellent connectivity to surrounding cities such as Bradford, Doncaster, Sheffield, Manchester, and Liverpool, making it an ideal base for thriving businesses like Aspire. “With ample storage, loading, and distribution facilities, the site is perfectly suited to support the company’s expanding stock levels and both direct-to-consumer and wholesale operations. We look forward to seeing Aspire’s continued success and supporting the UK team from this prime location.”

Gear4Music revises profit outlook as market pressures weigh on performance

April Lara
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Gear4Music revises profit outlook as market pressures weigh on performance

Gear4Music has lowered its profit expectations for the full year, citing tough market conditions and aggressive competitor discounting. The York-based musical instruments and equipment retailer now expects EBITDA of £10 million for the year ending 31 March, down from the previous forecast of £11.7 million. Profit before tax is projected at £1.6 million—below the £2.8 million market estimate but a notable rise from £0.6 million last year. Revenue is set to reach £146.7 million, falling short of the expected £154.7 million.

The company’s share price dropped 3.6% to 130p in early trading, a sharp decline from 200p six months ago and significantly below its pandemic peak of 1010p.

Executive chair Andrew Wass acknowledged the challenges of weak consumer confidence and price competition, particularly in early 2025. However, he noted improved UK and European sales in late March and suggested that competitive pressures may be easing as struggling retailers exit the market.

Gear4Music continues to invest in own-brand product development, second-hand sales, marketing, and e-commerce improvements. While economic uncertainty remains, the company expects to build on recent momentum and improve financial performance in the coming year.

Offshore wind supply chain and port infrastructure set for £15m boost

Tess Egginton
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Offshore wind supply chain and port infrastructure set for £15m boost
Funding for the development of manufacturing facilities and port infrastructure to enable swifter deployment of offshore wind around the UK is the focus of the second round of The Crown Estate’s Supply Chain Accelerator. Following the success of the initial funding round in 2024 The Crown Estate has allocated £15m for the next round of the programme which seeks to kick-start investments in  offshore wind-related port infrastructure and supply chain facilities. The Crown Estate established the £50m Supply Chain Accelerator last year to accelerate and de-risk the early-stage development of UK supply chain projects servicing the offshore wind sector. It supports existing early-stage projects to scale up into attractive capital investment opportunities, helping to drive demand for new jobs and skills. Following the passing of The Crown Estate Act 2025, this second round has been expanded to include UK ports and port-related infrastructure to support the construction, assembly, manufacturing, operations & maintenance, and wet storage of fixed and floating offshore wind, as well as supply chain opportunities that support deployment. Ports are set to play a major role in the UK’s clean energy transition as hubs for the construction, operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms. The Government has set a target of up to 50GW of offshore wind deployed by 2030 and, with 14.7GW of offshore wind currently deployed off the UK’s coasts, greater funding for port infrastructure and facilities will be vital to deliver this ambition. The Government’s target includes 5GW of floating wind, with The Crown Estate’s current Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5 expected to deliver up to 4.5GW in the Celtic Sea. The expanded scope of the Supply Chain Accelerator’s second round to include ports and port-related infrastructure as well as wet storage could support in the delivery of these targets. In the second funding round businesses can apply for up to £1.5m per eligible project, with The Crown Estate providing 50% matched funding for early-stage development expenditure together with an option to participate in the capital investment phase. The application process is now open and is due to close at the end of June. Successful projects will be chosen following an application assessment process and announced by the end of the year. The Crown Estate is being supported by professional services firm Grant Thornton. Ben Brinded, Head of Investment at The Crown Estate, said: “The ambition behind our Supply Chain Accelerator is to accelerate and derisk the offshore wind supply chain in support of the UK’s clean energy transition, boosting economic growth through new jobs and skills opportunity around the country. “Following the success of the initial funding round and the recent modernising of our investment powers through The Crown Estate Act 2025, we’ve expanded the ambition and scope for the second round of the Accelerator to include fixed and floating supply chain opportunities, together with ports and their associated facilities. “The application window is open until the end of June, and we are looking forward to hearing from applicants with UK projects we could support to get investment ready.” Gus Jaspert, Managing Director, Marine at The Crown Estate, said: “The energy transition isn’t just about clean power; it also offers huge opportunities for new jobs, skills and regeneration across the country. “With one of the world’s largest offshore wind industries and growing ambitions, we want to support the UK’s supply chains and infrastructure to be as successful as our deployed offshore wind. “Ports are vital national assets which are key to unlocking the huge potential of our exciting clean energy transition. Providing funding for port infrastructure and supply chain facilities is an obvious and important next move for our Supply Chain Accelerator. “It will help the UK’s offshore wind sector to retain its global attractiveness to developers and investors, providing confidence we can increase our rate of deployment whilst also ensuring activity offshore is creating value for onshore communities up and down the country.”

Leeds Old Medical School to become Health Tech Innovation Hub

April Lara
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Leeds Old Medical School to become Health Tech Innovation Hub

The redevelopment of the historic Old Medical School in Leeds into a Health Tech Innovation Hub is poised to accelerate the next wave of medical advancements. The 75,000 sq ft Grade II*-listed building, dating back to 1894, will be a key part of the Leeds Innovation Village project, part of the city’s broader £2bn Innovation Arc.

Professor Phil Wood, CEO of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, emphasised that the project would position Leeds at the forefront of health tech research, attracting businesses, researchers, and clinicians to collaborate on breakthrough healthcare solutions. The facility will feature co-working spaces, meeting rooms, laboratories, and offices designed to foster collaboration and drive scientific progress and economic growth.

This redevelopment is expected to generate £13bn in economic impact and create around 4,000 jobs. The Innovation Hub will also play a pivotal role in shaping future healthcare facilities, including those planned for the new Leeds General Infirmary.

Scarborough Group International (SGI), the project’s developer, has committed to creating a world-class innovation ecosystem, with spaces for start-ups and established health tech players. The aim is to encourage open innovation and collaboration, moving away from the traditional isolated science park model.

Green-thinking Yorkshire furniture expert lands national accolade for sustainability

Michael Fisher
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Green-thinking Yorkshire furniture expert lands national accolade for sustainability
Harrison Spinks’ Technical Manager Ethan McGuigan has secured a top title in an awards programme from national trade body the British Furniture Association (BFA).
Ethan won the Award for Sustainability Champion – recognising an individual who has gone above and beyond to champion sustainability in the workplace.
He joined Leeds-based Harrison Spinks in 2022 as part of the sustainability team, with the task to further improve the company’s self-sufficient, vertical marketing ethos.
The company designs and manufactures its own springs in-house at its Leeds site, as well as rearing sheep and growing natural hemp fibres and linen flax on its very own Yorkshire farm.
Ethan McGuigan was nominated for the award for his impactful green- thinking strategy in the company’s sustainability journey.
The Future of Furniture Awards recognise excellence in sustainability and education, in the furniture industry – and the award was announced and presented to Ethan at the trade body’s Furniture Components Expo, held recently at the Telford International Centre.
BFA MD Phil Spademan said: “Our Future of Furniture Awards are recognised as a hallmark of businesses that are forward-thinking and recognise the importance of sustainability in the workplace.
“Ethan has made a significant impact throughout his company, delivering business-wide sustainability training and improving employees’ understanding of its sustainability strategy. He has created a more sustainable future in the furniture industry.”

TransUnion finalises acquisition of credit platform Monevo

April Lara
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TransUnion finalises acquisition of credit platform Monevo

TransUnion has completed its acquisition of UK-based credit prequalification and distribution platform Monevo from Quint Group Ltd. The deal, first announced in January, was funded through TransUnion’s existing cash reserves. Financial terms have not been disclosed.

Monevo’s platform connects lenders, banks, and comparison websites to provide personalised credit offers to consumers in the UK and US. It works with over 150 banks and credit providers globally, integrating lenders and publishers to improve credit distribution efficiency.

TransUnion, which previously held a 30% stake in Monevo following a minority investment in 2021, expects the acquisition to strengthen its position in the consumer lending market. The company sees prequalification as a key tool for improving credit access while minimising unnecessary credit searches that could affect consumers’ credit scores.

The acquisition aligns with TransUnion’s strategy to enhance its offerings for lenders and publishers, enabling them to provide tailored credit options with improved economics. Monevo will gain access to additional resources and markets under TransUnion’s ownership.

Legal advisors on the transaction included Jonathan Ross and Harry Hobson from Squire Patton Boggs.

RAF Scampton to be sold on open market despite regeneration plans

April Lara
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RAF Scampton to be sold on open market despite regeneration plans

The UK government will sell RAF Scampton on the open market, rejecting West Lindsey District Council’s bid to acquire the site for a £300 million redevelopment project.

Earmarked initially by the previous Conservative government for migrant housing, the site’s asylum plans were scrapped in September. The Home Office cited regulatory requirements preventing a direct sale to the council, emphasising that disposal of public land must follow market rules.

Since March 2023, the site has cost over £60 million. Government officials claim the sale will prevent further taxpayer losses. Meanwhile, the council, which had partnered with Scampton Holdings Ltd. for regeneration, argues that contamination, heritage issues, and infrastructure limitations make a public-private partnership the only viable option for redevelopment.

Scampton Holdings remains committed to the project despite setbacks. Chairman Peter Hewitt criticised the delays, while local MP Sir Edward Leigh called the government’s decision “madness,” arguing it wasted time and resources on failed asylum plans.

Arrow Film Converters sale secures 55 jobs in Castleford

April Lara
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Arrow Film Converters sale secures 55 jobs in Castleford

Arrow Film Converters, a flexible packaging firm based in West Yorkshire, has been sold out of administration to Coral Products Plc through its subsidiary, Film & Foil Solutions Ltd. The acquisition preserves 55 jobs and ensures continued operations at the company’s Castleford production facility.

Administrators James Clark and Howard Smith of Interpath were appointed on 1 April 2025 and have confirmed that the sale includes key assets such as flexographic printing machines and laminators. These will strengthen Film & Foil’s capabilities in specialist flexible packaging.

The agreement also provides a six-month licence for the business to operate from its BRCGS-accredited Castleford site.

Arrow Film Converters, which has been trading since 2003, reported a turnover of £17.9 million and a pre-tax profit of £231,295 for the year ending 31 July 2023. Coral Products Plc sees the acquisition as a strategic move to expand its production capacity, with a medium-term target of £50 million.

NHS trust secures long-term lease at Scunthorpe’s Elizabeth Quarter

April Lara
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NHS trust secures long-term lease at Scunthorpe’s Elizabeth Quarter

The Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) has signed a 15-year lease for office space at Elizabeth Quarter, a newly developed council-owned building in Scunthorpe.

The three-storey property includes a ground-floor café and reception area, with modern office space spanning approximately 1,250 sqm across the upper floors. The building was marketed for lease and attracted strong interest from potential tenants.

RDaSH will use the offices for clinical consultations, patient appointments, and as the headquarters for its Community Mental Health and Talking Therapy workforce. The trust, which provides mental health and children’s services in the region, sees the move as a key part of its expansion in North Lincolnshire.

The council expects the agreement to drive further commercial interest in the site, particularly for the ground-floor café. The move aligns with its strategy to support local economic growth and ensure value for money for taxpayers.

Phlux Technology secures £9m funding to expand its infrared sensor technology

April Lara
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Phlux Technology secures £9m funding to expand its infrared sensor technology

Phlux Technology, a spinout from the University of Sheffield, has raised £9 million in Series A funding to accelerate its entry into new markets. BGF led the funding round, which also included contributions from Octopus Ventures, Northern Gritstone, and Foresight.

The investment will help Phlux build on its breakthrough antimonide-based semiconductor technology, which delivers highly efficient, low-noise infrared sensors. These sensors are poised to revolutionise optical communications, enabling up to five times faster data rates and enhanced sensitivity compared to current devices. The funding will also drive expansion into industries such as industrial automation, defence, vehicle safety, and gas sensing.

With its first engineering samples showing notable performance improvements, Phlux plans to scale production, expand its engineering and commercial teams, and launch two new product ranges targeting optical communication and sensing systems. Already serving customers across Europe, Asia, and North America, the company is set to deepen its global presence and collaborate further with industry leaders.

Phlux CEO Ben White highlighted the significant market demand for high-speed optical communication systems and stated that this funding will help address long-standing technology bottlenecks.

New horizon takes shape on Grimsby’s skyline

Tess Egginton
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New horizon takes shape on Grimsby’s skyline
Grimsby’s new Horizon Youth Zone has reached a major construction milestone, with work now complete on the roofline of the final building, which offers a first glimpse of how the development will look on the town’s skyline. Located on Garth Lane, the development is being delivered by national charity OnSide in partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council, which is contributing to the development as part of the Greater Grimsby Town Deal, and the Department of Culture Media and Sport, through the Youth Investment Fund. The site is being transformed by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter and is due to open this autumn. As part of the work, a series of Grade II listed 19th century maltings and grain store buildings, known as West Haven Maltings and Migar House, have been fully restored and repurposed. The middle part of the building sits at the heart of the development alongside the River Freshney and on a river wall which had to be rebuilt using a pontoon in the river to create a safe working platform. The building had fallen into a state of disrepair but it has been rebuilt, and work is now complete on its new roof structure. In addition to the refurbishment and restoration aspects of the project, the final piece of the scheme will see Hobson & Porter constructing a large outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA). Horizon Youth Zone will offer a safe and inspiring place for young people aged 8 to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, to enjoy their leisure time. Joe Booth, Business Development Director from Hobson & Porter, said: “With construction due to complete this summer ahead of the Youth Zone opening in autumn, this part of the development and restoration of the building, which was in a poor state of disrepair, is an achievement worth marking for the whole project team. “It’s been a highly complex part of the scheme, that also required a retaining river wall to be built, but it’s the final piece of the jigsaw that now shows how Horizon Youth Zone will integrate into Grimsby’s skyline. “The feedback we’ve received from the people of Grimsby has been fantastic, regardless of whether or not they’re connected to the project, because it’s given these buildings and this site a new lease of life and is going to make a huge difference to so many local young people, as well as bringing a state-of-the-art facility to the town.” Lucy Ottewell-Key, CEO of Horizon Youth Zone, said: “We’re delighted with how work is progressing and to see the completed roofline on this final building feels like a major milestone ahead of our opening later this year. “There’s a genuine buzz across North East Lincolnshire about Horizon Youth Zone and what it means for young people throughout the region, especially because so many local businesses, organisations and patrons are supporting us and making it possible, which is very exciting for everyone involved.” Horizon Youth Zone is an independent charity with a private sector led board, and once opened, it will be part of the OnSide network of 15 Youth Zones nationwide, which support over 50,000 young people annually. After completion, it’s estimated that Horizon could benefit up to 4,000 young people from North East Lincolnshire each year. Capital funders of Horizon Youth Zone comprise of Historic England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Architectural Heritage Fund, The Youth Investment Fund, Evergreen Life, St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation, Ørsted and Greencoats Wind UK. Horizon Youth Zone is also building a family of Founder Patrons, comprising of local organisations and philanthropists, who will support the Youth Zone during its first four years.

Second building tops out at University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus

Tess Egginton
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Second building tops out at University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus
The development of the University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus (NHIC) has reached a key milestone, with a topping out ceremony for the Emily Siddon Building. It is the second NHIC building and is adjacent to the Daphne Steele Building, which opened in September 2024. The building is named after the healthcare advocate and governor of Huddersfield Technical College, a forerunner of the University, who spent the majority of her life in nearby Honley. The 6,800m² facility, expected to open in December 2025, will host new purpose-built diagnostic facilities including MRI and CT scanners. A Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) will open in partnership with Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (CHFT) to provide access to thousands of additional diagnostic tests. Other floors of the building, designed by architects AHR, will contain specialist clinical teaching facilities. The Emily Siddon Building will also be home to a Health and Wellbeing Innovation Centre for local entrepreneurs or start-ups and organisations looking to benefit from locating with the University on the campus. The Centre is supported by the West Yorkshire Mayor and Combined Authority through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It will be operated by the team responsible for the University’s 3M Buckley Innovation Centre.
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