Sheffield firm secures planning permission for more than 100 homes in Maidstone
Henry Boot land promotion and planning business, Hallam Land has secured outline planning permission on appeal for 112 homes on a freehold site in Yalding, Maidstone, Kent.
Hallam acquired the 23 acre site in 2018, recognising its potential in a high demand housing area. The site was later included in the Emerging Local Plan, and in November 2023, Hallam submitted an outline planning application in line with this allocation.
Despite Maidstone Borough Council adopting its Local Plan (2021 – 2038) in March 2024, it did not make a decision on the application. Hallam appealed in May 2024 on the basis of non-determination and successfully secured approval in December 2024.
The planning consent for the site includes 112 homes (40% of which are affordable), new landscaping, habitat creation, and publicly accessible green infrastructure, with over 20% Biodiversity Net Gain calculated for surrounding habitats.
Plans to build a ‘stronger economy and stronger communities’ outlined in NE Lincs
The new Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall and Market scheme and supporting other development is central to the council’s commitment to growing a stronger economy.
Members of North East Lincolnshire Council’s cabinet have unanimously supported the authority’s proposed Budget, Finance and Business Plan for the financial year starting on April 1, 2025.
This plan will now progress to next week’s Full Council meeting for discussion and vote.
A key detail recommended and approved at last night’s cabinet meeting was a core Council Tax increase of 1.98% and the application of a 2% Adult Social Care precept.
The overall proposed plan reflects the aims and objects set out in the new Council Plan, which will come into effect from April 1. This puts a ‘Stronger Economy’ and ‘Stronger Communities’ at the heart of the authority’s vision.
Priorities to achieving this vision are outlined and include:
- The continued transformation of Children’s Services. The plan details how current work is having a ‘positive impact on outcomes for our children and young people, as well as supporting financial sustainability’.
- Again, with a focus on transformation, attention will be put on Adult Social Care where innovative solutions will be explored. This will help to meet an increase in demand and complexity of care.
- Continuing with a ‘commercial approach’ to grow a strong and sustainable economy. It details how major investments, such as the redevelopment of Freshney Place, are progressing and will support the borough at a time of economic challenge.
- A pledge to ensure the capital programme is reviewed regularly to ensure schemes remain viable. This approach, adds the report, will help ensure plans remain ‘affordable, sustainable and prudent’.
Student housing portfolio relisted at £30M after price reduction
Beachrock has significantly lowered the asking price for a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) portfolio, now seeking £30 million after initially marketing the properties at £90 million. The portfolio comprises over 1,000 student beds across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
The assets are spread across Coventry, Nottingham, and Sheffield. Initially part of the offering, a Cambridge property is no longer included. The remaining properties, which vary in size and price per bed, are available for purchase individually or as a group, with offers due by March 20.
The portfolio is now priced at £26,300 per bedroom, aligning with previous market interest. Beachrock stated that the new price reflects previous interest in the portfolio, aligning with market valuations.
MJ Gleeson reports sales growth despite profit decline
Housebuilder MJ Gleeson has reported an increase in home sales and revenue despite a sharp drop in profits, reflecting ongoing challenges in the UK housing market.
For the six months ending December 31, the Sheffield-based firm generated over £150 million in revenue, a 10% increase from the same period the previous year. However, pre-tax profit fell by half to £3.6 million. The company’s land division did not complete any transactions during the period but expects to finalise several deals in the coming months. It also noted that recent government planning reforms are beginning to have a positive impact.
The broader housebuilding sector has struggled with weaker demand due to high interest rates and economic uncertainty. Gleeson completed 801 home sales in the second half of 2024, up from 769 a year earlier. The company also recorded higher net reservations per site and a 4.8% rise in average selling prices, reaching £193,900.
Despite the increase in sales, profit margins took a hit due to incentives offered to buyers. Looking ahead, the company remains optimistic about a market recovery, citing strong demand in the affordable housing segment.
Businesses hear how film, nature, and a coastal walk can boost Lincolnshire tourism
Businesses at Lincolnshire’s fully-booked visitor economy conference have heard how film tourism, nature tourism and the new coastal path could boost the county’s economy.
Hosted by Lincolnshire County Council’s economic development team, the event also demonstrated the success of the Visit Lincolnshire website in showcasing everything the county has to offer.
Speakers included Heather Greenwood from Location Lincs and BBC Springwatch’s Lucy Hodson, known affectionately as ‘Lucy Lapwing’.
County Councillor Colin Davie said: “This was a great event to bring businesses together so they can network and share ideas and challenges. It’s a flagship event for tourism and is a good example of how we support businesses and help them navigate the challenges in the sector – of which there are many right now.
“Tourism is an incredibly important part of our economy and as a council we have invested in the sector, including the Visit Lincolnshire website, and provided grants to those struggling during after the Covid pandemic.
“There was a great line up of speakers at this event and I hope everyone who attended came away inspired by the future opportunities that our visitor economy businesses can benefit from.”
Heathrow’s largest-ever development will use British steel, says airport CEO
Heathrow Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye has announced the largest private investment programme in Heathrow’s history and confirmed the airport is developing proposals for a third runway to share with Government by summer – and pledged to support UK industry by signing the UK Steel Charter.
The charter aims to maximise supply chain opportunities for UK steel producers.
Gareth Stace, UK Steel Director-General, said: “Signing the UK Steel Charter is a vital commitment to strengthening Britain’s industrial backbone, ensuring our steel industry continues to support high-quality jobs, drive investment, and play a central role in the UK’s economic future. By prioritising UK-made steel in major projects, businesses can build a more resilient and sustainable supply chain, keeping value and expertise within the UK.
“Heathrow signing the UK Steel Charter is a major vote of confidence in UK steelmaking and British businesses full stop. With the airport embarking on its largest-ever private investment programme, this commitment unlocks significant opportunities for UK steel producers and supply chains to help deliver critical national infrastructure. Backing UK steel means backing UK jobs, innovation, and long-term industrial growth, ensuring the benefits of Heathrow’s expansion are felt nationwide.”
Zengwei An, British Steel CEO, said: “We’re proud to be backing a third runway and the proposed expansion of Heathrow. Major developments like this, which require huge volumes of steel, demonstrate why the UK must have a strong and vibrant steel manufacturing sector.
“As Britain’s only manufacturer of heavy constructional steel sections, and rail, we have a critical role to play in helping this country meet its many infrastructure needs and look forward to working with Heathrow, other customers, and the UK Government, to support investments which grow the British economy. Our colleagues in Scunthorpe and Teesside have a distinguished history of supplying world-class products into projects like Heathrow’s expansion, and we are incredibly excited by the potential of today’s announcement and the signing of the UK Steel Charter.”Mr Woldbye said: “This privately-funded programme will upgrade existing infrastructure while laying the groundwork for a third runway, boosting UK investment and economic growth, with tangible benefits felt this year. Heathrow is proud to answer the Chancellor’s call to get Britain building.
Mr Woldbye said: “A third runway is critical for the country’s future economic success, and I confirm we will submit our plans for a third runway to Government this summer. Ahead of then, as part of a phased expansion programme and supported by the Government’s clear backing, I am today confirming multi-billion-pound investment plans, 100% privately funded, to upgrade our terminal buildings, enhance passenger experience, and improve resilience and sustainability. This is vital investment and will ensure Heathrow remains globally competitive and a jewel in the country’s crown – the UK’s Gateway to Growth”.
Hull firm agrees long-term supply deal with modular building specialist
Hull-based FR Scott has entered a partnership with Premier Modular, one of the UK’s leading offsite modular building specialists.
A new long-term contract positions FR Scott as the supplier of fixings and fasteners to Premier Modular’s manufacturing site in Bransburton in East Yorkshire for a number of years.
In readiness for the start of this new contract our team has already fitted new FR Scott branded black and red racking in key locations across five factories. This ensures Premier Modular can maintain its high standards of efficiency and quality.
FR Scott Head of Sales and Marketing Tony Rands said: “We are thrilled to partner with Premier Modular, the fact they have chosen us to manage their fixings supply, following a robust selection process, highlights our ability to deliver innovative, tailored supply solutions to the modular industry that work.”
Two more occupiers take space at iPort in Doncaster
Verdion has secured two new occupiers taking almost 415,000 sq ft of logistics space at iPort, the 800-acre multimodal logistics hub just outside Doncaster.
Moran Logistics has taken the 166,872 sq ft iP7 unit offering 158,992 sq ft of warehousing with 15m clear headroom, 17 HGV bays, 7,880 sq ft of offices and welfare and 315+kVa power. CBRE advised Verdion and Bishop Property Consultants advised Moran Logistics.
iP10, a total of 259,286 sq ft, has been leased to an unnamed occupier. Its new unit offers 247,957 sq ft of distribution space with 15m clear height and 40 HGV bays, 11,329 sq ft of offices and welfare and 500+kVa power. GV&Co advised Verdion.
Two further development-ready sites are allocated for build-to-suit opportunities, with a maximum size at iP4 of 42.73 acres with scope to accommodate a cross-dock distribution facility up to 846,250 sq ft deliverable in 12 months from contract.
Jamie Young, Development Surveyor at Verdion, said: “There has been a noticeable shift in occupier demand in the last quarter, with renewed appetite for expansion and a focus on high quality space. These deals underline the continued attractiveness of iPort – and its power capacity, multimodal capability and strong demographics – to a wide range of businesses.”
Planners consider demolition of buildings in Grimsby to prepare way for transport hub
A planning application has been submitted to demolish the units in Grimsby’s Osborne Street to clear the site ahead of the creation of the transport hub.
Approval was given in September last year for the scheme to create a Transport Hub on a 1.6acre site off Osborne Street in the town centre.
Since then, preliminary site surveys have been conducted to feed into the design of the first stage of the hub, on the Garden St car park site, accessed from Osborne Street once the buildings have been demolished.
The units due for demolition were built in the 1970s, replacing housing at the time. Most of the existing buildings have been vacant for some years, with the Haven Centre relocating earlier this year.
The aim of the Transport Hub scheme is to create a multi-functional transport hub for buses, bikes, and other users, which connects to the next door railway station, encouraging public transport use and supporting the wider Grimsby Town Centre regeneration ambitions.
Stage one of the transport hub will essentially be a large, flat area co-locating all the bus shelters together once again. Further money will be sought to create a hub building for stage two of the plans.
As part of the main demolition, the contractor will be instructed to minimise any waste that goes to landfill, to salvage bricks, and to recycle or re-use steelwork and concrete where possible.
Peter takes on MD role in wealth management arena
Duncan & Toplis group has appointed Peter Wilson as MD to lead its financial advice and wealth management team at Castlegate Financial Management, supporting the group’s ambitious drive for growth.
Peter Wilson joins the group with a wealth of experience in strategic leadership and financial services, having held senior roles with organisations including Legal & General Investment Management and Flying Colours Financial Advice.
He has also worked directly with Her Majesty’s Treasury and the Financial Conduct Authority, contributing to the development of the UK Financial Capability Strategy.
He succeeds Andy Severn, who has stepped down from the role after being involved in the formation of the company in 1994 and holding the role of managing director for the last nine years. Andy will remain within the Duncan & Toplis group, continuing to work with his portfolio of clients as a business services director.
Mr Wilson said: “It’s exciting to be joining the Duncan & Toplis group as managing director of Castlegate Financial Management. I’ll be bringing my passion to see lives transformed through bespoke client-focused financial planning and advice, helping to further enhance the growth of the company during this next period.
“My previous roles have seen me lead on transformative improvements in client experience and adviser leadership, as well as innovation in investment management with the largest pension provider in the UK.
“I look forward to bringing these skills to my role at Castlegate Financial Management, which sits in the top quartile of financial advice firms in the UK. This puts us in a strong position to serve a wide range of customers with intelligent and bespoke investment solutions, as well as help clients navigate the complexities in the new norm of volatile global markets.
“It’s an exciting time for Duncan & Toplis and the Castlegate team. I can’t wait to get stuck in and help build on the success Andy and the team have achieved.”
Funding uncertainty looms over £200 million North Hykeham Relief Road
Lincolnshire County Council is still waiting for confirmation on government funding for the £200 million North Hykeham Relief Road, which would complete the ring road around Lincoln. Despite previous commitments, uncertainty has grown following a review of capital spending ordered by the new Labour government.
The previous Conservative administration had pledged £110 million toward the project, which is expected to cost around £190 million. If that funding is withdrawn, council leaders warn the project may not move forward unless alternative sources can be secured.
While the Department for Transport has not officially halted funding, the council must submit a final business case before the government releases funds. That approval is expected in autumn, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Work is still progressing, with archaeological surveys, site clearance, and utility diversions planned for later this year, followed by major construction in early 2026. However, concerns remain that without government support, the relief road could be at risk of cancellation.
Local officials continue to push for clarity, emphasising the road’s importance in reducing congestion and improving transport links in the region.
Visit Hull launches marketing campaign to support independents
A new campaign to put Hull’s independent businesses in the spotlight has been launched by Visit Hull.
‘Independent Hull’ intends to inspire residents and visitors to engage with the city’s unique independent food, beverage, attraction and retail offerings, highlighting the distinctive experiences that these businesses provide. From historic shopping arcades to bustling markets and stylish contemporary spaces, these businesses are at the heart of what makes Hull such a special place to shop and explore.
The Visit Hull website now provides a comprehensive guide, bringing together businesses from key areas of the city centre and profiling each independent business.
The campaign aims to show that independent businesses bring unique products, personal service and a distinctive charm that can’t be found in elsewhere, also helping to sustain Hull’s economy, creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship and ensuring that the city’s shopping experience remains one-of-a-kind.
Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, portfolio holder for regeneration at Hull City Council, said: “Hull is lucky to have a wealth of fantastic local independent businesses on offer. By supporting these businesses, we can all help to contribute to the city’s economy, as well as helping to preserve its unique character.
“Independent shops are a valuable part of our community and this campaign looks to highlight their importance, with something out there for everyone.”
MD Law boosts corporate and commercial property teams
Two experienced solicitors have joined Sheffield’s MD Law to boost its corporate and commercial property teams.
Kate Beech, known for a broad range of transactional corporate work especially in the healthcare sector, joins as a consultant solicitor working with the six-strong team of partners, and will concentrate on acquisitions and mergers, especially dental practices, a new development for the firm.
Senior associate Travis Wood, who has worked on commercial and residential developments, social housing projects, large distribution centre transactions and funding deals, joins experienced legal and property professional Howard Wade, and newly qualified solicitor Abi Johal in the expanding commercial property team.
The Broomhall-based boutique law firm, which was set up 10 years ago by Matthew Dixon and now employs 20 staff, acts for businesses and individuals on corporate law, business recovery, insolvency, litigation, commercial property, healthcare and employment law matters.
Kate has held senior roles at various national law firms, as well as in Sheffield in her near 20 year career, and is one of the very few lawyers in the country to have held both NASDAL (National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers) and ASPD (Association of Specialist Providers to Dentists) accreditation.
She said: “I have been involved hundreds of dental practice transactions. The market is active and there are deals being done all the time, whether that is a first time buyer or a corporate, all looking to build their practices, to those looking to sell the practice they have built over a number of years.
“This is a really good opportunity to bring a new line of work to a quality firm, which has friendly and approachable staff, and to enhance the already successful corporate team’s offering.”
Travis, who has 10 years experience in commercial property law, added: “I love the mechanical and transactional elements of the work. I’m excited to join MD Law at such a dynamic time for the firm and its growing commercial property team.
“The firm has an excellent reputation for delivering practical, client-focused advice, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth by helping clients achieve their goals.”
MD Law partner Matthew Dixon said: “Kate’s appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to driving sustainable growth across the firm. Her arrival further enhances the depth of expertise within our corporate team, bringing new skills and opportunities.
“Travis’ property experience across a range of sectors and project types brings real benefits and will ensure clients are in the best possible position to safeguard themselves and the developments they are involved in.
“Kate and Travis are invaluable assets to our corporate and commercial property teams, and to the firm as a whole. We’re very pleased to have them on board.”
RNN Group and Henry Boot Construction partner for Employer Academies
The RNN Group has formed a new partnership with Henry Boot Construction as an Employer Academy. Construction students at Rotherham College will benefit from the partnership with the construction specialist.
Henry Boot Construction have been appointed by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council to deliver the £36m redevelopment of Rotherham Markets and an adjacent new library, as part of the town centre’s new masterplan.
Through the partnership, Henry Boot Construction will actively contribute to curriculum development, ensuring it aligns with the evolving needs of the construction industry. This includes educational talks, hosting mock interviews and site visits, and offering valuable industry placements and work experience opportunities.
The construction department faculty will have the chance to visit live construction projects and engage in continuing professional development programmes to refresh their knowledge and stay abreast of industry best practices.
The College will deliver comprehensive mentor training programs, empowering Henry Boot Construction employees to effectively support apprentices and colleagues. This training will focus on key skills such as providing constructive and effective feedback, fostering a supportive learning environment, and enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.
This partnership marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between education and industry. By working together, Henry Boot Construction and Rotherham College aim to cultivate a highly skilled workforce that can meet the demands of the modern construction sector and contribute to the continued growth and success of the region.
Adam Houlston, Senior Project Manager at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be kickstarting our partnership with Rotherham College. At Henry Boot Construction, we’re committed to working with school and college students to show them the variety of careers in the construction industry and how engaging and rewarding they can be.
“By combining real-world experiences into education, we’re not only helping to inspire the next generation of industry professionals but also delivering meaningful social value that benefits the entire community. This collaboration reflects our commitment to building stronger, more connected communities while creating educational opportunities that align with the needs of our sector.”
Keith Sanderson, Director of Campus for Rotherham College, said: “We are excited to announce this strategic partnership with Henry Boot Construction, a leader in construction and development. This collaboration reinforces Rotherham College’s commitment to providing our students with practical, real-world experiences in a rapidly evolving industry.
“Through this partnership, we aim to bridge the gap between education and industry, equipping our students with the knowledge, skills and development opportunities necessary to thrive in the construction sector. We look forward to the growth and success that will come from this collaboration.”
Leeds Bradford Airport awards contract for phase two of regeneration project
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has awarded the contract for Phase 2 of construction works on its £100m regeneration project to Farrans Construction, as it continues to transform its terminal facilities.
With the terminal extension (Phase 1) due to handover in Summer 2025, the refurbishment of the existing terminal (Phase 2) of LBA: REGEN is expected to complete in Winter 2026.
Farrans is a building and civil engineering contractor which operates across the UK and Ireland. The company is already on-site completing Phase 1 of the project which involves the construction of the 9,500m2, three-storey terminal extension.
Passengers will benefit from more seating, faster security, new shops and eateries, and a larger baggage reclaim area and immigration hall, as well as improved access for passengers with restricted mobility.
In Phase 2, Farrans will be undertaking a full refurbishment of the existing terminal. Works will be delivered in multiple sub-phases to minimise disruption to customers and allow the airport to operate as close to normal as possible.
Improvements include the creation of new staircases, lifts and escalators to provide an open plan feel which will complement the new lighter and brighter terminal extension. Remodelled internal spaces will allow improved passenger movement and there will be brand new security and arrivals facilities, World Duty Free and shops, bars and restaurants.
By 2030, the regeneration has the potential to create 1,500 new direct jobs at LBA and 4,000 new indirect jobs, as well as contribute a total of £940 million to the local economy.
The regeneration will also help LBA to further decarbonise its operations, as outlined in the airport’s 2030 Net Zero Carbon Roadmap, with the installation of new all electric heating, lighting and machinery, including new baggage belts.
It is expected that airlines attracted by the regeneration will accelerate the deployment of their newest, quietest and most efficient aircraft at the airport, in turn reducing the overall environmental impact of LBA’s operations.
Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Farrans on Phase 2 of our LBA: REGEN project. We’ve already created a strong working relationship with the team on Phase 1 and as we transition into Phase 2, we’re excited to be able to take our customers along with us on this journey.
“It’s also an opportunity to let our customers know that while this important work gets underway, there will be temporary changes to the terminal while we deliver this new and improved customer experience. LBA: REGEN is the first major improvement to our terminal since its opening in 1968 and is long overdue. It’s vitally important to upgrade LBA to the world-class facility Yorkshire deserves.”
Cathal Montague, Regional Director at Farrans Construction, said: “We are pleased to be continuing our strong working relationship with Leeds Bradford Airport as they progress with this important improvement project which will have long term benefits for this region.
“Our experience in the aviation sector has enabled us to work collaboratively with our client to ensure the airport’s operations have continued without disruption, and we will be putting in place similar plans as we move forwards into Phase 2.
“Our team is fully invested in the complete delivery of this regeneration project and I am pleased that we will be remaining on site to see the work come to completion at the end of Phase 2.
“Leeds is an important region for our business, we are all frequent users of LBA and we are looking forward to working together with the airport’s team on the successful delivery of the next stage of the project.”
This year, the airport is expected to contribute a total of £460 million to the local economy, directly employing 2,100 people and indirectly supporting 4,500 jobs.
University of Leeds makes funding pledge to boost region’s skills
The University of Leeds has revealed a new levy transfer project that aims to donate £1 million to eligible small employers to fully fund apprenticeship training and boost skills development.
To date, the University has pledged £287,000 of the £1 million to support small and medium sized enterprises in the Leeds city region who do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy to upskill their workforce.
The University of Leeds has offered apprenticeship programmes since 2018, across a range of different sectors and to apprentices from all walks of life. The new levy transfer project aims to support potential apprentices who don’t currently hold a Higher Education qualification or equivalent.
The programme particularly welcomes individuals from low-income households, or those who are mature, disabled, care leavers, or from areas that do not have high levels of the community participating in higher education along with those from disadvantaged ethnic minority backgrounds.
In addition, applications are encouraged from organisations where apprenticeship programmes will enhance the career prospects of staff through professional registration or Chartered Status.
The funding is targeted at those key sectors identified in the West Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan. These are health and social care, engineering and advanced manufacturing, financial and professional services, low carbon industries, creative industries, digital and technology industries, the education sector, construction, transport and logistics.
Dominic Millington, Head of Apprenticeships (Delivery and Compliance) at the University of Leeds, said: “We want to give as much support as possible to both organisations and the individuals who participate in our apprenticeships. Our aim is to widen participation in higher education, boost skills in a cost-effective way for employers across the district and support growth and productivity within the West Yorkshire region.”
Sheffield Forgemasters gets green light for new machining facility
Castings and forgings specialist, Sheffield Forgemasters, has been granted planning permission to build a 30,000 sq m machining facility on brownfield land in Sheffield’s Meadowhall district.
Located on a 16-acre plot at Weedon Street, the new facility will form one of the world’s most advanced large machining facilities, to support the Ministry of Defence-owned company’s manufacture for the UK defence programmes.
With work to prepare the site already underway, the building will cover a space equal to 12 Olympic-sized swimming pools and will contain some of the largest and most advanced five-axis Vertical Turning Lathes ever produced.
Craig Fisher, Programmes Director at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “This planning agreement will see construction of the largest machining hall of its kind in the UK, and regeneration of a prominent brownfield site in the city’s industrial centre.
“It signals an amazing investment for the city and for the wider UK, which will create highly-skilled engineering jobs for decades to come, fully supporting our national defence programmes.
“The sheer scale of the building will make it an iconic landmark, and will eclipse the construction of the UK’s largest open-die forging-line, which is also underway on our adjacent Brightside Lane site.”
Plans for the new machining facility detail a main building with a circa 272.5 x 110 metre footprint, standing 32 metres tall, located close to the River Don and designed to complement the historic look of the company’s existing buildings.
Adjoining the main construction is a second, proposed 3,500 sq m building, with a state-of-the-art test-house facility and a dedicated training area, to transfer vital skills to the next generation of engineers.
Craig added: “What we are creating in the centre of Britain’s historical industrial heartland is unparalleled in the UK and will not only de-risk supply for the UK’s AUKUS defence programme, but it will also deliver technologically advanced and rewarding working facilities for our employees.”
The machining facility is set to be operational by the end of 2028 and will deliver new levels of speed, accuracy and efficiency for the manufacture of large, highly complex, nuclear-grade components.
Machine tools specialist, WaldrichSiegen, is building a series of large Vertical Turning Lathes and associated machines for the machining hall, which will be installed and maintained by McDowell Machine Tools.
Sheffield Forgemasters’ 13,000 tonne forging line and proposed machine shop will create a new generation of engineers and designers trained to work with Industry 4.0 technologies.
The machine shop project team consists of Arup, which handled the ecological and travel assessments, Bond Bryan Architects, and JLL, which acted on behalf of Sheffield Forgemasters for the site acquisition and planning submissions.
Joanna Gabrilatsou, Regional Head of Planning at JLL, said: “JLL has been working closely with Sheffield Forgemasters and Sheffield City Council to ensure the delivery of Sheffield Forgemasters’ time-critical growth programme is met, and are delighted with the decision.
“Approval of the new machine shop is essential to allow Sheffield Forgemasters to operate in a modern, fit-for-purpose facility, and is highly beneficial to the city and the region’s economy. It will also allow the regeneration of the vacant Weedon St plots.
“We are already working on the first phase of enabling works as part of an existing consent, and we’re now gearing up to discharge conditions to implement the next phase of construction.”
County accountancy firm makes north London acquisition
Accountants and business advisers Duncan & Toplis has acquired London-based accountants ALG, milestone in the group’s largest period of growth in its 100-year history.
The deal will see ALG rebrand, with all team members including directors Mark Hilton and Panos Michaelides remaining in their roles.
The team will join their new Duncan & Toplis colleagues in the Finchley office, which opened in September 2024 following the company’s acquisition of Haines Watts North London.
Damon Brain, CEO of Duncan & Toplis, said: “Last year, we began a new era of our company’s history with the launch of our Growing Together strategy. Now, this is another exciting step for us and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the start of our centenary year.”
Amilios Costa, Regional Director for London at Duncan & Toplis, added: “We’re very excited to be welcoming ALG to Duncan & Toplis – Mark, Panos and the team will bring a wealth of experience and expertise, helping us to maximise our potential here in North London.”
Government changes the rules on apprentice qualification
Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify every year as the government Changs apprenticeship rules giving employers more flexibility over maths and English requirements.
Rules slowing down the training of workers in key industries like construction will also be changed as the government reveals plans to turbocharge growth industries with reduced bureaucracy for apprenticeships and new leadership also appointed for Skills England.
Businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a level 2 English and maths qualification (equivalent to GCSE) in order to pass it. This means more learners can qualify in high demand sectors such as healthcare, social care and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding.
This could mean as many as 10,000 more apprentices per year will be able to complete their apprenticeship, unlocking opportunity in communities all over the country and breaking the link between background and success. It does not mean that apprentices won’t be assessed on core English and maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean that apprentices will be able to focus more on their paid work.
The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months.
Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson said: ”Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental Missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices throughout this National Apprenticeship Week and beyond.
“Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system and these reforms show that we are listening. Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality, helping achieve our number one mission to grow the economy. ”
Craig Beaumont, Executive Director at the FSB said: “It’s encouraging to see Government shorten the length of apprenticeships, and give employers the right to decide whether Level 2 English and Maths is needed. These flexibilities should help SME employers fill skills gaps faster.”
Nationwide Platforms empowers employees through apprenticeships
This National Apprenticeship Week (10th – 16th February 2025), Nationwide Platforms is championing the value of lifelong learning through employees like Yetunde Adefila, a 40-year-old HR Business Partner who’s using an apprenticeship to sharpen her leadership skills and shape company HR strategy.
With an engineering background and a degree in computer science, she began her career in the technical sector. However, she soon realised she missed the human interaction element in her work, leading her to transition into HR in her late 20s. Since joining Nationwide Platforms as an HR Advisor three years ago, she has progressed rapidly, being promoted to HR Business Partner within a year.
While transitioning into her new role, Yetunde sought guidance from a mentor outside of work who recommended an apprenticeship to strengthen her leadership and strategic HR skills. Already holding a Level 7 qualification in HR Practices, Yetunde opted for a career-adjacent route, enrolling in a Level 5 Coaching Professional apprenticeship through KnowledgeBrief. Her apprenticeship is focused on coaching and influencing and takes 12 months to complete, involving online learning, bi-monthly meetings with a skills coach, portfolio development, and a final exam. Now two months in, she is already seeing improvements in her approach to HR strategy. “I absolutely love my role,” says Yetunde. “Every day is different, and I enjoy the gentle strategising that comes with it. HR is often the first place people turn to when they’re struggling at work. I want to be able to guide them effectively, balancing emotional support with strategic decision-making. I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to level up. I describe myself as a ‘certification freak’, but this apprenticeship is more than a qualification. It’s about applying frameworks in real-time and developing the soft skills that make a real difference. Balancing work, studies, and family life is no small feat, and Nationwide Platforms’ hybrid working policy has been crucial to maintaining this balance while still enjoying precious family time.”Charlie Stanley, HR Director at Nationwide Platforms, said, “Nationwide Platforms champions internal career development through apprenticeships. By providing employees with the tools, flexibility, and support to advance their careers, the company is fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, Yetunde’s experience is a testament to the power of lifelong learning and the impact of investing in people. Nationwide Platforms is proud to play a part in helping employees reach their full potential, proving that career growth is always within reach.”
