Moorfield finishes Lincoln student accommodation development

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Moorfield finishes Lincoln student accommodation development
Real estate fund manager Moorfield Group has finished building ts 293-bed, £45m BGU Student Village in Lincoln.
Bishop Grosseteste University Student Village is being delivered as part of a development agreement with Melberry Developments , with Bowmer and Kirkland as contractors. The development, which took 15 months to build, is ready to welcome students from BGU.
Moorfield has undertaken the investment on behalf of Moorfield Real Estate Fund V,  the latest fund in its flagship value-add series. In July, Moorfield announced that it had successfully raised an initial £330m for MFREFV and its associated co-investment initiatives.
Charles Ferguson-Davie, Co-CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Moorfield Group, said:  “Student housing is a sector of strategic focus for us, with the investment case supported by structural and demographic demand drivers, as well as the undersupply of fit-for-purpose accommodation.
“BGU Student Village will help to plug this gap, with the sector offering those with proven and long-standing expertise the opportunity to fund development and to refurbish existing purpose-built schemes as well as student houses of multiple occupation (HMOs).”
David Sarson, MD at Melberry Development Management, added:
“After our successful work together on Enso, the completion of BGU represents yet another vindication of the quality of product produced by Moorfield and Melberry’s development partnership.
“With a conscientiously thought-out amenity offering and best-in-class sustainability credentials, the scheme is all set to provide this generation of Lincoln’s students with high-quality accommodation they can be proud to call home throughout their educational journey.”

Incommunities launches £60,000 fund for community organisations

Tess Egginton
-
0
Incommunities launches £60,000 fund for community organisations
Housing provider Incommunities has launched its 2024 ‘Funding In-communities’ programme, which awards community groups a much-needed injection of funds to support their good work. The £60,000 fund is for any voluntary community group that directly benefits Incommunities customers. Applications are now open for the first round of funding, to support groups across Keighley and Bradford South. A second round of funding for other Bradford areas will open in the new year. Projects could include food banks, children’s playgroups, social clubs, art classes – anything that is well-used by people who live in homes provided by Incommunities. Grants of up to £2,500, £5,000 or £7,500 are available for events or activities. Incommunities’ customers are encouraged to ensure their local community group submits an application. Interested groups can apply by visiting www.incommunities.co.uk/community-fund-application. The closing date for application is 4pm on Sunday, 13th October 2024. This year’s recipients will be chosen by an independent panel made up of Incommunities customers, colleagues, and board members. The Keighley winners will be announced at a celebratory evening at Keighley Civic Hall on 23rd October. This will be followed by a celebratory event for Bradford South applicants on 27th October. Susan Godbold, Head of Customer Voice at Incommunities, said: “Our community fund continues to strengthen the amazing work that voluntary groups deliver for our residents. “We launched the fund for the first time last year and had some great feedback from the groups we supported. “By providing financial support, we hope that the projects or activities we support will bring people together, and we urge groups to apply.” Previous beneficiaries of the fund include Cottingley Community Centre’s Memory Lane Afternoon Teas. The centre supports people dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Helen Eteson, Cottingley Community Centre’s Manager, said: “The funding helped us make these events much more wonderful. “It covered the cost of the food we provided, but the biggest help was enabling us to pay for entertainers to come to the group and for the equipment we used to bring a ‘beach’ indoors. “Bringing the ‘beach’ into our community centre was such a fun experience for everyone to enjoy.” Another recipient was a women’s wellness retreat at the Rockwell Centre in Ravenscliffe. The retreat provided a space to switch off from the stress and worry of everyday life and take part in arts and crafts, yoga, and meditation. One of the participants said: “Everything was wonderful. The activities were great, and meeting new people and chatting with like-minded ladies was really empowering. I would be very happy to come again!” For support completing the application form or any queries, please email getinvolved@incommunities.co.uk.

Xeinadin acquires trio of Haines Watts offices in Yorkshire

Tess Egginton
-
0
Xeinadin acquires trio of Haines Watts offices in Yorkshire
Professional services firm Xeinadin has acquired three Haines Watts offices in Grimsby, Scunthorpe and Hessle, enhancing its presence in the region. This series of acquisitions, following the addition of Clay Shaw Thomas in July and Jones Harris Limited in August, brings the total to 27 in the past two years. Derry Crowley, CEO of Xeinadin, said: “I am delighted to welcome the team and clients of three former Haines Watts offices to Xeinadin in what is a key milestone in our growth strategy. “The team, led by Partner Jennifer Toulson, are consummate professionals with a track-record of delivering exceptional services for local businesses. They fit in with the ethos of our company and I look forward to seeing them thrive as part of Xeinadin.” Jennifer Toulson, Xeinadin Humber Partner, said: “This move marks a new and exciting time in our journey as we join Derry and our new colleagues at Xeinadin. We’ll continue to deliver personalised services to our clients in Grimsby, Scunthorpe, Hessle and across Yorkshire, tapping into the resources and expertise of the business advisory firm built for small business.” The acquisition will bring 23 colleagues from Haines Watts into Xeinadin’s professional services business under the continued leadership of its existing management team, adding to the firm’s already significant presence in Yorkshire and Humber.  The business will be known as the Xeinadin Humber offices.

World leaders in advanced rubber roller grinding & grooving machines gets funding boost

Tess Egginton
-
0
World leaders in advanced rubber roller grinding & grooving machines gets funding boost
Halifax Numerical Controls (HNC), a world leader in rubber roller grinding and grooving machines, has received a funding boost having secured a six-figure loan from Finance For Enterprise (FFE) based in Doncaster. The company was formed in 1998 and continues to serve clients throughout the UK and worldwide from its own UK workshop premises in Halifax. HNC engineers have a long history of experience in all aspects of Advanced Machine Tool design, build, and support. The team has a particularly high level of expertise in CNC and PLC Automation Systems. HNC Ltd’s core skills combine all aspects of Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering and software programming, and research & development in the field of rubber and composite roll manufacture. The funding is designed to aid working capital and future growth for the company which makes manufacturing machines to order all around the world. Company Managing Director, Mike Diskin is a renowned industry expert and is a regular guest speaker at manufacturing conferences worldwide. The demand for HNC to solve manufacturers challenges and build machine solutions to order in established markets like Germany, USA, Indonesia and occasionally Australia is very high. Current large project orders in progress include two for Mid-West Innovators in the USA and two for Hilzinger in Germany, and a third machine that is currently being built in Taiwan which will be shipped and commissioned in the USA. In addition to the above, HNC has seen high demand from the renewable energy sector. HNC’s machines are used for the grinding of the high voltage electrical connectors, used to connect solar and wind farms to the grid. The machines are highly suited for grinding the complex profiles required on these components. HNC sees this as a growth sector and hopes to increase sales in this area. Managing Director Mike Diskin said: “This investment will help us to continue innovating and transforming the roll production industry. Expanding the use of fully automatic machining of rolls means we can help manufacturers deliver a higher level of quality and consistency that is not dependent on operator skill. “HNC’s range of automatic roll Builders, Grinders, Groovers, and Duplexer designs are the most advanced machines of their type in the world, and we are looking forward to future growth and the employment opportunities this will create locally.” Jeremy Meadowcroft, Business Lending Manager from FFE, said: “HNC is a well-established, profitable business with an excellent reputation across the world. This additional working capital will fund organic growth and enable the company to fulfil the many contract orders in progress whilst also securing new projects and consultancy assignments.” HNC has also been approached by the Yorkshire Innovation team to work with Huddersfield Universities 3M Buckley Innovation Suite specialists to develop a Roll Measuring Machine that can be used to accurately add an innovative dimension to UK Manufacturers and has been awarded a £450K grant to develop the machine. Once in use the machine has the potential to benefit UK Manufacturing Outputs and grow National GDP and Engineering specialism. HNC will then be allowed to use the machine exclusively to deliver a world’s first to clients all over the world. This development is expected to increase turnover from £1m to £5m over the next three years.

Streets Chartered Accountants considers potential tax and pension changes in the Autumn Budget and more in new news roundup

Tess Egginton
-
0
Streets Chartered Accountants considers potential tax and pension changes in the Autumn Budget and more in new news roundup
Streets Chartered Accountants considers potential tax and pension changes in the Autumn Budget and more in its latest monthly news roundup. Five key areas of possible changes to Pensions in the Autumn Budget Little has been said by Labour on what the budget will contain. We are led to believe there will be change and upheaval, barring a significant leak we won’t know though until 30th October. There are plenty of rumours around pensions and in the King’s speech, a commitment to a “pensions review”. What this means in the longer term, time will tell although there are five key areas which may be looked at within this review and as part of the budget in October. Read More. Changes to Tips & Service Charge Rules As of 1st October 2024, new legislation will change the way businesses manage tips. Here’s what you need to know to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. The new law mandates that all qualifying tips – whether received via cash or card – must be fairly distributed to staff. You can no longer withhold tips and the allocation must follow clear, objective criteria. The government has issued a statutory code of practice to guide this process. Read More. Pre-Budget Personal Tax Update – the times they are a changing  The October budget is right around the corner. It could bring major changes to a whole range of estate planning taxes, especially Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Set down are some thoughts, identifying possible changes that might be on the way and how they might impact on your personal wealth and the financial well-being of your family. If you’re serious about protecting your wealth, it’s time to brace yourself. Read More. Income Tax Reform  Over the coming years there are some significant changes happening to income tax. Whilst these may not appear in the headlines, as they are not direct changes to tax rates, thresholds or reliefs, they are nevertheless significant and need to be understood and planned for. In advance of the MTD introduction, another change is already underway. Read More. Podcast: How might a new government affect your personal financial planning? In this episode of The Streets Sessions, Streets talk to Sam Tindale, Financial Adviser and Managing Director with Tower House Wealth Management, about how the new Labour government might impact personal financial planning including pensions, investments, IHT planning, paying school fees and more. Listen Now. Grants spotlight: new grant opportunities – September 2024! Continuing the success of Streets’ dedicated Innovation Grants Consultancy, headed by Chris Parkhurst, they are excited to share with you some new grant opportunities that are now available. These include Contracts for Innovation, Biomedical Catalyst 2024 and Sustainable Medicines manufacturing innovation. There are also still live opportunities in the Defence sector and more general sectors with Smart grants and Innovation loans. Read More. Taxes Made Easy  This guide is designed to provide you with an overview of the key tax rules from seven perspectives – that of the family; the employee; the person running their own business; the taxation of investments; disposals and CGT; property matters; and, finally, the potential liability on your estate at death. Please use the guide to help you identify planning opportunities, pitfalls to avoid and areas where you may need to take action and then contact Streets for further advice. Download Now. Family Company Estate Planning Reviews Planning for succession is a major concern for many families, particularly in the context of thriving family businesses and farming interests. Identifying the right approach is becoming increasingly essential. Is it time to consider succession and intergenerational planning for your family business? Could you benefit from a conversation? Download Now.

Hanley Controls signs warehouse deal at Brighouse industrial estate

Tess Egginton
-
0
Hanley Controls signs warehouse deal at Brighouse industrial estate
CBRE’s Industrial team in Leeds has completed a deal on a 10,713 sq ft warehouse on Birds Royd Industrial Estate in Brighouse, West Yorkshire. Hanley Controls has agreed a letting on Unit 2 on the estate as part of the company’s growth strategy. CBRE advised the outgoing tenant, Robit Group, on disposing of their lease to Hanley Controls. Hanley Solutions Ltd, a sister company of privately owned Irish business, Hanley Controls, will take the space and specialises in pipes, valves, fittings, controls and instrumentation, as well as bespoke off-site manufacturing. It serves a wide range of markets including data centres, chemical, pharma, food and beverage, power, water and waste-water, manufacturing, R&D, laboratories and utilities. The modern warehouse comprises 9,606 sq ft of warehouse space with two-storey office accommodation of 1,107 sq ft, with eaves height of 5.7m, ample parking and a secure shared gated yard. The estate is set back off Birds Royd Lane with access from the A641 Huddersfield Road, close to Brighouse town centre with accessibility to both Brighouse railway station and the M62 J25 motorway network. Ben Pinder, Managing Director, Hanley Solutions, said: “This warehouse is ideally situated to support our continued growth plans. Hanley Solutions Limited is a sister company of Hanley Controls Ireland and as part of the Hanley family inherits more than 40 years of industry experience servicing micro-electronics, data centres, pharmaceuticals, gas, water and HVAC markets. “Hanley Solutions will differentiate by offering off-site manufacturing to its client base, helping them to navigate the evolving construction industry. Starting with 7 employees and a combined 200 years of experience, Hanley Solutions aims to provide excellence in customer care and service backed up with extensive stock and knowledge.” Danielle Raunjak, Associate Director, CBRE, said: “This deal provides the occupier with excellent transport connection to the M62 corridor, as well as access to the talent pool thanks to the densely populated local area coupled with the easy train commute. This location is ideal to support the company’s strategy to expand within the UK market.”

Yorkshire business confidence sees slight September drop

Tess Egginton
-
0
Yorkshire business confidence sees slight September drop
Business confidence in Yorkshire and the Humber fell one point during September to 40%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. Companies in Yorkshire and the Humber reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down four points at 35%. This was somewhat offset by increased optimism in the economy generally, which climbed three points to 45% – but this still gives a decreased headline confidence reading of 40% (vs. 41% in August). Just a net balance of 30% of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, down nine points on last month. Looking ahead to the next six months, Yorkshire and the Humber businesses identified their top target areas for growth as introducing new technology (43%), evolving their offering by introducing new products or services (39%) and investing in their team, for example, by investing in training and development (35%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. Overall UK business confidence in September dipped slightly, to 47%, down from August’s 50%. Though there was a marginal increase in their own trading prospects (up two points month-on-month to 54%), firms’ confidence in the overall economy dropped nine points to 38%. The joint-most confident regions in the UK were the West Midlands and London, both reporting overall confidence of 59%. Only Northern Ireland, Wales, London, the South West and North West reported an increase in overall confidence. Sector insights Projections for output were mixed across the sectors, with some showing significant changes from previous results. In construction, the sharp increase last month was largely counteracted by a drop in expectations in September, falling by 12 points to 46%. Similarly, in manufacturing, trading prospects fell for a second month to 53%, although this figure is still stronger than the year-on-year figure. However, the falls in manufacturing & construction sectors were more than offset by a small rise in retail and a bigger rise in the dominant service sector. Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It’s discouraging to see confidence falter among Yorkshire firms, especially after the optimism of August. “However, businesses are set to benefit from the ample investment opportunities available in the area. Sustainability firms are particularly well placed for growth, with a new report by Green Economy finding that companies focused on decarbonisation are set to grow by 37% by 2026. “As always, we’re also on the ground in Yorkshire, understanding the needs of businesses’ leaders and providing the support they need to keep growing.”

Alison takes on Head of Marketing role at Forrester Boyd

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Alison takes on Head of Marketing role at Forrester Boyd
Alison Mitchell has been appointed Head of Marketing at accountancy practice Forrester Boyd after six years with the firm. As marketing manager she helped to develop and grow the marketing function internally, but also met clients to discuss their marketing strategies and areas for improvement. Phil George, Partner and Business Development Partner at Forrester Boyd, expressed his enthusiasm for Alison’s appointment: “We wanted Alison’s title to be reflective of the level of service that she delivers not only to the partners and the firm, but also externally to our existing clients and to other non-client firms. “Alison, a chartered marketer, has over 30 years’ experience both in house and agency side, the last 10 being in professional services. She chairs the Marketing Taskforce for the UK200 Group, a membership of over 60 accountancy and law firms, sharing her expertise and guidance to other marketers within the group and building her network. Head of Marketing we feel is the perfect title to reflect her expertise and the services that she provides.” Alison will also sit on the steering group of Humber Business Week. Pat Coyle, Chair of the Humber Business Week, said: ‘We are excited to have Alison Mitchell on board as a member of the Humber Business Week Steering Group. Her extensive network of connections and knowledge of the business community, especially on the south bank of the Humber, will be invaluable as we continue to grow and expand the reach of the Business Week.”

Construction starts on £4.3bn electricity superhighway between Scotland and Yorkshire

Tess Egginton
-
0
Construction starts on £4.3bn electricity superhighway between Scotland and Yorkshire
Construction work on a major UK electricity infrastructure project has taken a momentous step forward, with a symbolic simultaneous ground-breaking ceremony in Scotland and England at either end of the £4.3bn EGL2 project – a 2GW subsea electricity link.
In a significant milestone in the step towards decarbonising the energy system, representatives from National Grid and SSEN Transmission took the first ceremonial spadefuls of earth, marking the start of main construction, at events held at either end of the subsea link in Peterhead in Scotland and Wren Hall in Drax, near Selby in North Yorkshire. After travelling 436km under the sea from Peterhead, EGL2’s subsea cable will come ashore on the East Yorkshire coast at Fraisthorpe Sands and then run underground for 68km to a new high voltage current (HVDC) converter station at Drax. Once complete, it will unlock the rich renewable energy capacity of Scotland and significantly increase the UK’s capacity to deliver clean energy for around two million homes. At peak periods of construction, the project is expected to support hundreds of local jobs in Yorkshire, through supply chain and construction activity. Representatives from National Grid were joined in Yorkshire by colleagues from specialist HVDC cable supplier, Prysmian, and Hitachi Energy and BAM, responsible for the supply of converter stations at either end of the project. Commenting at the ceremony, Offshore Delivery Director for National Grid, Zac Richardson said: “Today marks an important moment for all involved in the project and the commitment of both National Grid and SSEN in delivering major projects that will play a key role in supporting the UK’s transition to a net zero economy. “EGL2 is the first of four currently proposed 2GW projects between Scotland and England to begin construction and in total these projects, delivered in partnership by National Grid, could provide enough renewable electricity to power eight million homes. “Achieving this first milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the huge commitment of the project team, our construction partners, stakeholders and the invaluable feedback from local communities.” Akshay Kaul, Ofgem Director General for Infrastructure Group, said: “Today is a historic occasion. Not only is construction starting on EGL2, Britain’s biggest ever electricity transmission project, but we’re also standing here two years earlier than we might have been thanks to Ofgem’s fast track new process which cuts red tape to get consumers across the country connected to renewable energy more quickly.   “Harnessing homegrown clean energy will help build a secure energy future for Britain, and projects like EGL2 are pivotal in our move towards that. This is the first project to successfully complete our new process and many more major energy projects are going through this fast-track pipeline.”    Wren Hall Converter Station in Drax has seen the start of main construction activities this month, including site establishment and vegetation clearance. Surveys are expected to continue along the underground cable route in the coming months. The project is expected to be operational in 2029.

Grimsby’s University Centre gets new Campus Principal

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Grimsby’s University Centre gets new Campus Principal
The TEC Partnership has appointed Joanne Wallace as new Campus Principal for Higher Education at the University Centre Grimsby.
She joined the TEC Partnership last year as Deputy Principal, bringing extensive experience in the education sector, from the University of Leeds and Bradford College before working on curriculum development and quality management of overseas centres in the Pacific Rim and Middle East. Joanne said: “I joined TEC Partnership as Deputy Principal a year ago and have felt fortunate to join an organisation and team where improving the outcomes of every student is at the heart of everything they do. “I am looking forward to working with colleagues to continue to develop an accessible and outstanding provision for the communities that we serve and to further the development of our new Animal Care training facility at our Grimsby campus and the new build development of the Skegness campus, both of which will bring further educational opportunities to our local communities. “One of my key goals going forward is to further involve local and regional employers in our academic provision and to align our offer to existing and future aspirations of their business and regional economic priorities.” Ann Hardy, CEO of the TEC Partnership, said: “Joanne’s extensive experience in Higher Education and curriculum development will support students and our local communities. Her approach to supporting our local community and building lasting talent pipelines make her the ideal person to lead the University Centre forward.”

Council bids to stamp out illegal employment of children

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Council bids to stamp out illegal employment of children
Cleethorpes businesses have been visited by officers from North East Lincolnshire Council in an effort to stamp out the illegal employment of children. The visits were led by the North East Lincolnshire Modern Slavery Partnership, who work to raise awareness of modern slavery human trafficking, and were joined by officers from North East Lincolnshire Council, Humberside Police, and the NEL Community Safety Partnership. The visits were paid to a number of businesses in the resort as part of a proactive themed calendar set by the Humber Modern Slavery partnership. In the UK, it’s illegal to employ a child of school age without a child employment permit, and those convicted of doing so can face a fine of up to £1,000. There are some circumstances which are exempt from this, including periods of work experience arranged by schools. Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s important that businesses follow the law and keep up to date with legislation. Child employment permits have been around for a long time and there is no real excuse for businesses not to be aware of the need for them. “The license is there to prevent the exploitation of children, and I’m pleased to see the team going out and visiting premises following reports that they’ve received.” Visits were paid to a number of businesses, and whilst no evidence of child employment was found on the night, officers will carry out some work with those businesses to ensure that the proper permits are in place where required.

Bruntwood SciTech launches innovation hub in Leeds following £20m redevelopment project

Tess Egginton
-
0
Bruntwood SciTech launches innovation hub in Leeds following £20m redevelopment project
Bruntwood SciTech, the property platform dedicated to the growth of the innovation economy, has launched its latest innovation hub, West Village in Leeds city centre, following a £20 million redevelopment project. Already 75% pre-let, West Village now offers 230,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art workspace designed to help innovation thrive and stimulate collaborations between like-minded businesses. West Village provides a mix of coworking, serviced and leased spaces. Cementing Leeds’ position as a leading technology hub – with Lloyds Bank naming it the fastest growing digital economy in the UK – businesses already confirmed to make West Village their home include global insurtech innovators QBE – who have located their robotics centre and technological development hub at West Village, Australian fintech company, PEXA, and coding bootcamp providers Northcoders. The launch of West Village marks the culmination of an ambitious development project by Bruntwood SciTech – a joint venture between Bruntwood, Legal & General, and Greater Manchester Pension Fund – that has completely reimagined the former site of West One and Castle House. Improvements have been made to the building to reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality, reuse rainwater, reduce noise and create new habitats for local birds and wildlife. As part of the redevelopment, the building has been fitted with high efficiency air source heat pumps, sensor technology to promote the use of natural ventilation, new windows and additional wall insulation.
The design of the new workspace also has sustainability and wellbeing at its heart, and is focused around an expansive new entrance space with shared lounge, breakout spaces, meeting rooms, a café operated by independent retailer Second City Coffee, art curated through a partnership with Leeds University students, and a central courtyard with expansive biophilia that will provide the city centre with much needed green space. West Village also offers a new state-of-the-art wellness facility – RESET Leeds, operated by premium training brand FORM – a mindfulness contemplation room, nursing and expressing room, secure cycle storage, a sports kit drying room, and shower, changing and locker facilities. Bruntwood SciTech has also announced the refurbishment completion of nearby workspace 14 King Street, part of the company’s city centre innovation cluster. Andrew Cooke, Regional Director – Leeds for Bruntwood SciTech, said: “West Village is the culmination of a hugely ambitious and important redevelopment project for the city. Leeds has built a reputation as a leading technology ecosystem and for good reason, with hundreds of innovative businesses now calling the city home. “So it’s crucial that we continue to provide forward-thinking workspaces to ensure that these businesses are set up for success here. West Village does just that and more, offering spaces that encourage collaboration, inspirational thinking, and a positive work-life balance. “Having already built a successful ecosystem of tech-led businesses at nearby Platform, we are excited for West Village and 14 King Street to join and build this community, ultimately adding to Leeds’ burgeoning technology status.” At West Village, Bruntwood SciTech partnered with Robertsons, Cubic Works, 3D Reid, I Want Plants and DWLLP while Ultimate Group carried out the works at 14 King Street. CBRE and Knight Frank support West Village while Cushman & Wakefield and Fox Lloyd Jones support 14 King Street.

Greater Lincolnshire LEP puts rebel technologists under microscope at next conference

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
Greater Lincolnshire LEP puts rebel technologists under microscope at next conference
The Greater Lincolnshire Enterprise Partnership’s next conference will focus on the role of rebel technologists in organisations and the launch of an innovation roadmap to help businesses access innovation services. The conference, on November 7th, will also provide an update on some of the work that the LEP and its partners have undertaken this year and include a conversation between the three chairs of the LEP, Ursula Lidbetter, Pat Doody and the current Chair Professor Neal Juster. Among the other highlights will be a technology and innovation demonstration area showcasing Lincolnshire businesses and organisations that support or drive innovation. The event will take place at the EPIC Centre on the Lincolnshire Showground. Admission is free and there will be the usual networking opportunities and a complimentary lunch for delegates. Professor Juster said: “Our annual conference is always very popular and we’re delighted to be welcoming delegates again this year. “Innovation is crucial to our economy. This year we want to celebrate those innovators who have blazed a trail by doing things in a new way, and at the same time encourage others to think outside the box and find innovative ways of working. “We’ve already confirmed a host of businesses and organisations who will be showcasing our competitive edge in our technology and innovation exhibition area. “The conference promises to be another fascinating day so I strongly urge you to sign up for your free ticket to avoid missing out.”

Sugar firm handed £25k fine for failure to comply with CMA merger procedures

Tess Egginton
-
0
Sugar firm handed £25k fine for failure to comply with CMA merger procedures
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has imposed a fine of £25,000 on Tereos SCA and Tereos United Kingdom and Ireland Limited (together Tereos) for failing to provide relevant information in relation to the merger inquiry concerning the T&L Sugars/Tereos deal. As part of the CMA’s phase 2 investigation, a notice was sent to Tereos under section 109 of Enterprise Act 2002 (the Act) requiring the production of certain minutes and internal documents in relation to its board and corporate governance. Tereos responded to the notice, however, following further enquires by the CMA it was found that Tereos failed, without reasonable excuse, to provide a full response. In particular, the CMA Inquiry Group found that Tereos’ interpretation of the scope of the notice was unjustifiably narrow and untenable when viewed in the context of the object of the merger inquiry and that the failure was capable of having an adverse impact on the CMA’s investigation. In order to reach sound decisions that benefit consumers and the UK economy as efficiently as possible, it is essential that the CMA is able to gather all the evidence it requires. Parties must therefore comply, on time and in full, with requests for information from the CMA during an investigation. Richard Feasey, Chair of the independent inquiry group which led the investigation, said: “It’s important that firms respect the UK merger review process – which includes providing all the information we need to promptly progress our investigation.

“Firms and their advisers must not apply their own narrow, artificial interpretation of our formal information gathering requirements– as Tereos has done so here. Had they responded properly then Tereos could have avoided this fine altogether.”

Currently, where there is a failure to comply, without reasonable excuse, with a requirement of a notice under section 109 of the Act, the maximum fixed penalty the CMA is able to impose is £30,000. This is due to increase to 1% of the total value of a business’s worldwide turnover once amendments introduced by the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) come into force.

ABP appoints Business Development Manager

Stuart Pearcey
-
0
ABP appoints Business Development Manager
Christine Watts has been appointed Business Development Manager at port operator ABP, focusing on developing carbon capture and storage value chains and transport solutions. Christine served as a Lead Commercial Advisor at Neptune Energy where she developed non-pipeline transport solutions for CO2, and opportunities for offshore green hydrogen production via Integrated Energy Hubs. She also has significant experience in commercial and joint venture, project and change management. She said: “I very much look forward to diving into the world of ports and using my customer-side experience to provide our partners with the tailored services and insights they need to thrive. “There is so much potential to create value in the UK carbon capture and storage market. CO2 shipping will help accelerate industrial decarbonisation because not every emitter is at the end of a pipeline.” Ralph Windeatt, ABP’s Group Head of Business Development, said: “Over the next decade we look forward to seeing the development of both domestic and cross-border CO2 shipping to support the widespread deployment of carbon capture and storage solutions, with ports at the heart of this transition. “We are very well placed to build on the unique opportunity to work with businesses in this sector, so that together we can deliver large-scale investment, drive economic growth and create good quality jobs, which will bring prosperity to regional communities across the UK.”

Citra Living boosts portfolio of rental properties with almost 60 new homes on outskirts of Bradford

Tess Egginton
-
0
Citra Living boosts portfolio of rental properties with almost 60 new homes on outskirts of Bradford
Citra Living, part of Lloyds Banking Group, has boosted its growing portfolio of rental homes across the UK, with the addition of almost 60 new homes on the outskirts of Bradford. Citra, which now operates more than 4,000 properties (of which 2,500 are delivered and occupied), has forward-purchased 58 single family homes at housebuilder Gleeson Homes’ semi-rural Wood Hall Chase development in Bierley. As part of Gleeson’s broader 106-home development on Shetcliffe Lane, Citra will bring to market a range of two, three and four-bedroom homes for private rent, with the first due for completion in 2026. The additional homes aim to further support first-time buyers and young families in the area. All 58 Citra homes will be delivered to EPC B rating, supported by air source heat pump technology. Less than three miles from both the M62 and Bradford Interchange rail station, Wood Hall Chase will provide commuter links to Leeds and Huddersfield. Surrounded by countryside, residents will also benefit from local amenities in Bierley, including its bars, restaurants, shops, garden centre and community centre. Andy Hutchinson, Chief Executive Officer of Citra Living, said: “Wood Hall Chase further strengthens our growing portfolio as we continue to pursue opportunities to create a positive mix of housing in areas where people want to live. We’re looking forward to seeing the homes progress and welcoming new customers to the Citra community as we continue to provide pathways from rental through to home ownership.” Graham Prothero, CEO of MJ Gleeson, said: “We are delighted to partner with Citra Living to deliver 58 single family homes on our development in Bradford. This partnership aligns with our mission, core values, and commitment to excellence, offering more customers access to quality homes through our combined expertise.”

Former IBIS Hotel in Bradford sold

Tess Egginton
-
0
Former IBIS Hotel in Bradford sold
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co has sold the former IBIS Budget Hotel in Bradford, West Yorkshire. Funding for the purchasers was secured through Christie Finance. Located in central Bradford, the closed property formerly operated as an IBIS hotel, featuring 86 bedrooms as well as an open plan reception and dining area. The hotel was purpose-built in 2008, and the previous owner recently sold it to focus on their other hotel and retail business ventures. The business has been acquired by an experienced operator who owns two other hotels in West Yorkshire, and has recently re-opened this hotel as their third. David Lee, Regional Director at Christie & Co who handled the sale, says: “We were very pleased to conclude this hotel transaction, with invaluable help from Ram Kakar from Christie Finance. I wish all the best to the new owners in their latest venture.” Ram Kakar, Director at Christie Finance, who secured funding for the sale, says: “This was a satisfying completion for the Christie network, with funding secured for our clients within just eight days of instruction. This deal showcases that we could effectively provide a solution for our clients, no matter the circumstances. “Appetite for the hospitality sector remains fluid, and Christie Finance Real Estate have the experience and the capability to deliver alternative solutions for our clients.”

Leeds Beckett University supporting Wakefield greetings card company’s growth with RFID technology

Tess Egginton
-
0
Leeds Beckett University supporting Wakefield greetings card company’s growth with RFID technology
The rollout of new patented Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, supported by Leeds Beckett University experts, is helping Wakefield-based Riverside Greetings realise their ambition to become the largest supplier of greetings cards to convenience and forecourt stores in the UK. The RFID technology has been piloted, and patented, as part of a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Leeds Beckett University and Riverside. The KTP was part-funded by the Government through Innovate UK. The technology allows stores to complete a full stock count of hundreds of cards by design in less than two minutes, with 100% accuracy – the current manual counting system takes around 30 minutes. Sales in Riverside’s pilot stores grew by 11% using the innovative new method. Dr Akbar Sheikh Akbari, Reader in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing at Leeds Beckett University, said: “The challenge for Riverside was a lack of real-time business performance data. The KTP aimed to create a sustainable platform for growth – using RFID and AI to develop better data management, tighter stock control, and a clearer understanding of which designs are selling in each store, so that Riverside can anticipate and meet the needs of their clients more quickly. “RFID uses radio waves to passively identify a tagged object, tracking items in multiple commercial and industrial applications. Embedding RFID tags in low-value, high-volume items, such as greetings cards, is highly innovative.”
The KTP has now been graded ‘Outstanding’ by independent assessors at Innovate UK – this is the highest possible rating awarded to projects.
A KTP Associate – Dan Lamsdale – was recruited as a full-time member of the Riverside team, and was pivotal to the management and delivery of the project. Dan designed and implemented the RFID pilot programme across a number of convenience stores, creating a plan for rolling out the technology to all stores after the project, and researching and driving forwards the successful patent pending application. He created a strategic marketing framework and campaign plans, and a programme of cultural change and training within the business to support the growth and adoption of the new technology. Andrew Glen, Managing Director of Riverside Greetings, said: “The KTP has exceeded our expectations, and we have seen significant benefits. The RFID technology patent pending status has positioned us as a leader in our field. We can now investigate other markets where the technology could be applied, as well as licensing the solution to other parties in the future. The RFID technology has critically improved our responsiveness to the needs of our customers. “Riverside’s ambition is to become the largest supplier of greeting cards to the convenience and forecourt sectors. Without the KTP, the business would not be placed to progress so quickly.” Riverside are now planning a phased rollout of the technology across their store network in the UK. Jo Griffiths, Head of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Leeds Beckett University, added: “The Outstanding grading awarded to the project is a clear indication of the high quality of innovation achieved by the team on this KTP. That Riverside has a patent pending application is an exciting output that we did not foresee as part of the original project plan.  We look forward to seeing Riverside’s continued growth in the future.”

Citu and Great Places come together to deliver shared ownership, low-carbon homes at Kelham Island

Tess Egginton
-
0
Citu and Great Places come together to deliver shared ownership, low-carbon homes at Kelham Island
Citu, a Yorkshire-based sustainable property developer with a focus on community-led development, and Great Places Housing Group, a northern, affordable housing provider, are working together to deliver 16 new, zero-carbon homes for shared ownership in Kelham Central, located in Sheffield’s Kelham Island neighbourhood. Jonathan Wilson, Citu, Managing Director, said: “Through great collaboration with like-minded partners, Citu is excited to support the launch of a shared ownership offering at Kelham Central, bringing added value to the existing community and the wider Kelham district. “It’s always been Citu’s ambition to create impactful places, protecting the planet with an emphasis on places where people can thrive. This is an important chapter in our journey – as to build a truly inclusive and diverse community where every person has something to contribute – we need to make sure as many people as possible are given the opportunity to purchase a home here.” Commenting on the new partnership, Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places Housing Group, said: “Partnership working is at the heart of Great Places in delivering much needed affordable homes in the areas in which we operate. “We’re delighted to be working alongside Citu, to offer shared ownership as part of Kelham Central, providing an affordable housing option for those looking to be part of this exciting new community close to Sheffield city centre.” Shared ownership gives first-time buyers, as well those looking to move up the property ladder or downsize, an opportunity to own between 10% and 75% of the home’s full market value and pay rent on the remaining amount. Buyers also have the opportunity to buy more shares in their home in the future until they own 100 per cent of their property outright. Cllr Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Citu and Great Places on this important project in the centre of Sheffield’s industrial heartland, which is rapidly forming. “Sheffield is a fantastic place to live, and we need more affordable homes to allow as many as possible to love this city, this development will help us achieve our goal of transforming the city into a place people can live, work and relax.” Peter Denton, Chief Executive of Homes England, added: “As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting stakeholders of all sizes to achieve their ambitions. “This investment through the Affordable Homes Programme does just that, enabling Citu and Great Places to build 16 low carbon, much needed new homes the people of Sheffield can be proud to call home.” Kelham Central, Citu’s second development on Kelham Island following the now complete and fully occupied award-winning Little Kelham neighbourhood, aims to tackle the climate emergency with 113 new homes built using Citu’s innovative timber-framed design which offers airtightness and energy efficiency. The scheme also reprioritises outdoor leisure and greenspace, creating communities that have ownership of their futures through a Community Interest Company (CIC). The homes are a mix of high-performance 3 and 4-bed townhouses, with a sleek Scandinavian style design and access to private roof terrace space. Every Citu Home is built to be sustainable, this means the operational carbon from the homes is 73% better than a traditional home. The homes are designed and built to Passive House Standards. Each home features triple-glazed windows, renewable technology and mechanical ventilation systems. The Great Places shared owners will also benefit from significantly reduced energy usage.

Specialist family law firm acquired by investor

Tess Egginton
-
0
Specialist family law firm acquired by investor
Investcorp, a global alternative investment firm, has acquired Stowe Family Law, the specialist family law firm, from investment firm Livingbridge. Based in Leeds, the company was founded by Marilyn Stowe in 1982, and has quickly grown into one of the leading technology-enabled UK family law firms. Spanning practice areas such as divorce, cohabitation, financial settlements, child law, mediation, nuptial agreements, surrogacy, adoption and international family law, the firm has more than doubled in the last two years, now operating from 90 locations across the United Kingdom with nearly 400 staff supporting 5,000 clients a year. The company had a reported annual turnover of over £37 million in the fiscal year ending March 2024. With this investment, Investcorp will work with the Stowe team to continue in the development of its growth strategy, focusing on its 5-year Stowe 3.0 plan. The firm’s ambition is to serve more than 10,000 clients by 2029 and to offer more holistic support to families going through the challenges of change. Investcorp will also use its vast experience in building technology-enabled businesses to help Stowe continue to expand its services and delivery for clients using the latest solutions. Gilbert Kamieniecky, Head of Private Equity, Europe at Investcorp, said: “We are pleased to be starting this new partnership with Ken and the Stowe Family Law team, as they continue on their growth trajectory of building the number 1 brand in family law in the UK. “We were impressed by the company’s commitment to build a resilient and scalable business powered by technology, and look forward to working with Ken and the team as they continue on their vision of Stowe 3.0, a true leader in the legal field.” Ken Fowlie, Executive Chairman at Stowe Family Law, added: “We are delighted to begin this next chapter in the Stowe story and look forward to working with the Investcorp team, who share our passion and strategic vision for the firm. “With their support and collaboration, we will continue to invest in our business and people to achieve our mission to become the first choice for family law. Given Investcorp’s experience, we will accelerate investment in technology, including looking to unlock the power of artificial intelligence to further enhance customer experience and service quality.”
1...899091...469Page 90 of 469