Firms invited to site meeting about Pier Gardens development

Stuart Pearcey
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Firms invited to site meeting about Pier Gardens development
Interested businesses are being invited to look at the proposals for the transformation of Cleethorpes’ Pier Gardens both online and at a site meeting to look at the details of the project and offer comments. With online forms and a meeting at The Knoll on Thursday 12 September from 1pm, it’s a ‘Preliminary Market Consultation’, normal practice for public sector organisations and is part of the process ahead of full tenders being released for large contracts. Officers will look at the responses, opinions and views before finalising details and releasing the main tender for the work of principal contractor, which is expected to be done later this year. The scheme for Pier Gardens is supported by £18.4m awarded to Cleethorpes from the former Government’s Levelling Up Fund. The designs were finalised after the views of hundreds of people were gathered during public events, meetings and consultations. This feedback supported more modern and wildlife friendly planting schemes, along with areas for children’s and adults’ social activities, and an area that could enable pop up events, performances and group exercise. Additionally, people wanted to make sure that the gardens had improved lighting, sympathetic to the surroundings. North East Lincolnshire Councillor Hayden Dawkins, said: “Cleethorpes has been evolving and improving over the years and this a further step in growing our resort, which is fast becoming a jewel in the crown of our country’s East coast. “This transformation of Pier Gardens is going to create wonderful spaces for both visitors and local people to visit and enjoy – spending time together as families and we all look forward to this work starting, and more importantly completing.”

Developer secures £31.3m loan for Build to Rent housing schemes

Tess Egginton
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Developer secures £31.3m loan for Build to Rent housing schemes
Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF) has provided a loan of £31.3m to developer Placefirst to support the delivery of much-needed housing in the North West. CBRE’s Lending team advised the Fund.

The loan will be split between two Build to Rent (BTR) schemes in Bolton and Halifax town centres.

The Bolton project has received £22.6m for the delivery of 167 one and two-bedroom units. Previously a brownfield site, the 1.1-hectare site will also offer around 5,000 sq ft of commercial space on the ground floor, communal green areas and a new public square within the scheme.

The transformation of a former multi-storey car park in Halifax into 122 one and two-bedroom units, has received £8.75m to enable the development of high-quality sustainable homes, alongside a communal recreation space for residents.

Both developments will provide new high-quality affordable rental housing in priority regeneration areas, catalysing investment in their respective town centres.

Each development is all-electric, partly supported by PV panels and air source heat pumps and will offer cycle and EV parking spaces. Furthermore, all units will have a minimum of EPC B.

Cllr Gerald Cooney, Chair of GMPF said: “As a leader of a Council as well as a chair of a pension fund I know the depth of the housing crisis in which we find ourselves as a nation. We see it as we place record numbers of homeless children in temporary accommodation; as we grapple with waiting lists for social housing getting longer and longer; and younger residents are priced out of home ownership.

“That’s why we are proud to make this investment with Placefirst and support the Government’s plan to provide much needed affordable homes for hardworking families whilst delivering strong low risk returns to pay the pensions of our hardworking members.”

Will Church, Executive Director, CBRE, said: “We deploy significant amounts of debt from our pool of capital into the North West, as recently demonstrated by these two whole loans to Placefirst. This is the second loan we have made on behalf of GMPF since securing our mandate and the first housing-led loan.

“This loan will contribute to the essential housing needed in the region, while adding real socio-economic benefits to Bolton and Halifax town centres. We remain interested in supporting further development across all main asset classes with loans that have appropriate risk adjusted characteristics and, crucially, which bring regeneration to the region.”

David Mawson, chief executive for Placefirst, said: “We’ve long been committed to addressing housing shortages by delivering much-needed high-quality rental homes in prime locations. Through these brownfield developments, Placefirst will revitalise neighbourhoods that have been bursting with potential, leaving behind well-connected homes that offer communities a new standard for rental living.

“As developers and operators, we are long-term partners with our residents and the communities we build in which is why we’re people-focused from design to operation. This GMPF loan is a testament to the social and economic benefits our developments have been proven to deliver for local communities. From encouraging wider investment into the area to helping communities connect, our developments offer long-standing value.”

Both schemes are under construction, with each expected to reach practical completion in 2025. Once complete Placefirst will remain on site and be responsible for managing every aspect of the neighbourhood through the appointment of dedicated resident services managers.

JMG Group grows in North Yorkshire with insurance broker acquisition

Tess Egginton
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JMG Group grows in North Yorkshire with insurance broker acquisition
JM Glendinning North Yorkshire, part of the JMG Group, has acquired established commercial and personal lines insurance broker C P Bennet Ltd.
Scarborough-based JM Glendinning North Yorkshire, led by MD Alison Piercy, has made its second acquisition just months after its move to larger premises to accommodate future growth. C P Bennet Ltd MD, Simon Benson, will move to JM Glendinning’s office in Wykeham, Scarborough. C P Bennet Ltd is an established Bridlington-based insurance broker which was founded by Charles Percy Bennet in 1929. Simon Benson joined the business in 1986 to work for his father, Albert Benson, who joined C P Bennet Ltd in 1970 and was a director until 2013. Simon has been instrumental in shaping and growing the business for over 38 years. Alison Piercy, JM Glendinning North Yorkshire’s MD, says: “We’ve been looking for that perfect addition to our business; one which shares our own operational and cultural values, and one we feel delivers quality customer support. I believe C P Bennet is a great fit and matches who we are and what we do and I’m excited to bring them onboard.” Simon Benson says: “This sale is part of our succession plan, to allow for a seamless transition in the future and continuity for employees and clients. It will also enable us to continue the growth of what my dad and our team have built over the years. “While growing rapidly, both organically and through acquisitions, the JMG Group still retains its family-run feel and its client-first ethos. I’m looking forward to being part of the group and seizing the opportunities that are ahead of us.”

Employers and training providers promote STEM opportunities in Scarborough

Stuart Pearcey
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Employers and training providers promote STEM opportunities in Scarborough

More than 30 employers and training and education organisations are to exhibit at Scarborough Science and Engineering Week from October 8th to 10th

Sponsored by mining company Anglo American, the even t is intended to engage in a wide variety of interactive activities to encourage them into further STEM learning and careers.

Since the inaugural event, it has attracted more than 39,750 students, inspiring a future workforce into skill-based careers covering science, design, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The 15th anniversary event will attract more than 3,000 young people aged from seven to 19, from schools across the coast and beyond.

Sam Alexander, who chairs the LEP’s Skills and Employability Board said: “This is a hugely exciting annual event, helping to build aspiration and opportunity for young people across the coast and beyond.”

Gareth Edmunds, Corporate Relations Director for Anglo American’s Crop Nutrients business, said: “Events such as this are critical in trying to ensure we equip our young people with the skills they need. We are incredibly proud to support it.”

Popularity of Leeds pop-up artisan market means it’s to be a regular feature

Stuart Pearcey
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Popularity of Leeds pop-up artisan market means it’s to be a regular feature
A pop-up Artisan market at The Springs in Leeds has proved so popular that organisers have committed to make it a regular feature throughout the year. The ‘Leeds Local Market’ debuted at The Springs earlier this month to celebrate Yorkshire Day, and hosted by Yorkshire Urban Markets, the event is said to have exceeded all expectations, prompting plans to make The Springs a regular market destination alongside established markets in Meanwood and Rothwell. Rachel Vickers, Senior Commercial Manager at Scarborough Group International, developer and asset manager of The Springs and Thorpe Park Leeds, said: “As demonstrated through our seasonal events programme, we are committed to bringing in new and exciting attractions to The Springs on a regular basis. “We are thrilled that the Leeds Local Market proved so popular for our visitors and that we were also able to support independent traders where some sold out of their wares in just a few hours.  The event also boosted footfall for our existing stores where many reported increased trading.” New dates are yet to be arranged.  

Yorkshire business confidence rises in August

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire business confidence rises in August
Business confidence in Yorkshire and the Humber rose five points during August to 41%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. While companies in Yorkshire and the Humber reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down six points to 39%, their confidence in the economy climbed 15 points to 42%. Taken together, this gives a headline confidence reading of 41% (vs. 36% in July). Looking ahead to the next six months, Yorkshire and the Humber businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (45%), evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (38%), and introducing new technology (25%). The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. National picture Overall UK business confidence in August remained unchanged from July at 50%. Firms’ confidence in the overall economy increased two points to 47%, offsetting marginally weaker confidence in their own trading prospects, which fell two points month-on-month to 54%, although remained above the long-term average. The North East was the most confident UK nation or region in August (65%), followed closely by Scotland (64%). Sector insights Output expectations for the various sectors remained at or near their three-year highs. Construction had a steep increase to 58%, up by 14 points, whereas other sectors experienced slight declines. Trading prospects for manufacturing dropped by 2 points to 58%, at the same level as construction, while Retail and Services fell to 53% down 7 and 3 points respectively. Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It’s hugely positive to see business confidence growth this month after a dip in July. “Businesses will now be looking to capitalise on their brighter outlook, and we’ll be by their side every step of the way – whether that’s supporting plans to upskill their teams, or diversifying their range of products and services.”

York Biotech Campus welcomes two new occupiers

Tess Egginton
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York Biotech Campus welcomes two new occupiers
Microsaic Systems and Labskin Limited have secured lab space at York Biotech Campus (YBC). Microsaic Systems supplies a comprehensive solution for water purity monitoring, protection and control, working with water authorities globally to ensure water safety and quality. It has taken 1,350 sq ft of laboratory space at YBC, where it will produce detection bioreagents that are consumables for its wide range of testing equipment. These bioreagents are then used to detect toxic chemical pathogens in water. Labskin Limited, a skin science company, has also moved into YBC. The business creates human skin equivalent models that are used by skincare, cosmetics, ingredient manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies as part of their research processes. They occupy a total of 1,800 sq ft across three laboratories on site. Both organisations were formerly located at the science campus under a shared parent company, operating as Modern Water and Labskin. Earlier this year, Microsaic Systems acquired the Modern Water business, while private investors purchased Labskin’s assets from their parent company. Microsaic Systems and Labskin Limited both have plans to expand at YBC and grow their respective teams. Bob Moore, Chief Executive at Microsaic Systems, said: “We’re thrilled to be based here at YBC with our excellent team producing our bioreagents. “YBC is an exceptional bio-cluster, and we’re surrounded by many other leading bioscience businesses who we can draw expertise from, as well as benefit from access to an abundance of skill and talent in the area. “We’re well-placed to achieve our growth ambitions, including expanding our facilities to enhance capacity and serve even more customers worldwide.” Dr Nicola Kingswell, Scientific Director at Labskin Limited, said: “YBC has always been a supportive, nurturing home for us, so we’re pleased to be based here in the next stage of our journey. “It’s an extremely exciting time for Labskin Limited as we’re expanding our services, including launching a new Labskin model with melanocytes, the cells that produce the colour pigment melanin in our skin. This means we’ll have a model for testing skin ethnicities. This is just one pioneering launch with plenty more in the pipeline.” Liz Cashon, Estates Manager at York Biotech Campus, added: “Microsaic Systems and Labskin Limited are both leaders in their fields, playing crucial roles in our everyday lives. Microsaic Systems focuses on ensuring the safety and security of our water, while Labskin Limited is dedicated to testing and improving the products we use daily. “We are proud that they have chosen YBC as their base, adding to our diverse mix of innovative organisations already based here, and further bolstering Yorkshire’s reputation as a leading centre in bioscience.”

Offshore Wind Group plans £2m investment to unlock UK manufacturing potential

Stuart Pearcey
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Offshore Wind Group plans £2m investment to unlock UK manufacturing potential
The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership has launched its new Manufacturing Facility Support Programme intended to unlock investments in UK manufacturing to support the growth of the offshore wind sector. The fund has £2m available for UK businesses looking to either build new manufacturing facilities or significantly expand existing facilities that make key components, equipment and/or systems required for the offshore wind sector. The Stage 1 application window is open now until Friday 20th September 2024. The Partnership aims to increase UK offshore wind manufacturing capability and capacity by stimulating early-stage investment. Matched funding of up to £500,000 will be provided via a two-stage application process to help accelerate pre-investment development activities, and two reduce the risks involved. Iain Sinclair, Executive Director at Global Energy Group and Non-Executive Director for OWGP said: “This new programme will provide highly-focused support to innovative UK-based manufacturing companies with the necessary resources to develop new or additional production capacity geared towards providing locally-produced equipment and systems. Developing these resources is key to helping accelerate the deployment of offshore wind in the UK, helping us to reach our ambitious target of 60GW by 2030. “The MFSP programme further advances our mission to improve productivity, increase business competitiveness, boost innovation, and support a globally competitive offshore wind supply chain in the UK.” Funding will be awarded on a competitive basis in the form of a grant. Successful proposals will demonstrate a long-term business plan that covers investment plans, forecast market share, revenue, profitability, employment and exports.

Garden centre group appoints managers for sites in York and Scarborough

Stuart Pearcey
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Garden centre group appoints managers for sites in York and Scarborough
Bradford-headquartered Yorkshire Garden Centres group has appointed new managers to lead two newly-acquired sites in North Yorkshire. Yorkshire Garden Centres acquired Dean’s of York and Scarborough following the retirement of Richard, Helen and Sarah Dean earlier this year. Their retirement, plus that of Jim Cockerton from the Scarborough centre, created vacancies for managers at the two sites. Experienced garden centre manager Mike Waugh has been appointed as the centre manager at York, and Adam Bailey has been promoted from within to manage the Scarborough site, where he has worked for 21 years. Mr. Waugh joins Yorkshire Garden Centres from California Lodge and Ellerker Lodge garden centres in East Yorkshire. He said: “I’m looking forward to joining a company with real ambition and drive to take the company forward, and in my role, I’m most looking forward to leading the team to reach these new heights.” Mr. Bailey is looking forward to using his knowledge of the centre and the team to grow the business, relishing “the challenges it will bring and new opportunities.” Both roles will involve leading the teams and making improvements where needed while maintaining high standards across the centres to ensure an exceptional customer experience. Neil Barwise-Carr, Yorkshire Garden Centres’ Head of People and Culture, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mike to the Yorkshire Garden Centres family and to congratulate Adam on his well-deserved promotion. We’re looking forward to working with them both and benefitting from their vast experience.”

York embarks on skills initiative to bridge construction skills gap

Stuart Pearcey
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York embarks on skills initiative to bridge construction skills gap

City of York Council is investing in a new construction skills initiative called Construction York, to reduce inequality, address the construction skills gap and enable inclusive economic growth.

The city about to embark on several key housing developments, plus retrofitting work needed to hit carbon reduction targets, there will be an increasing number of opportunities for skilled construction workers in the York area. This initiative aims to ensure local residents are able to take full advantage of these opportunities, and can access training needed to meet employers’ skills requirements. The council is working with leading social value enterprise CHY to manage the collaborative design, development and implementation of Construction York during its first phase from June 2024 to March 2025. Construction York aims to equip York residents with relevant skills, qualifications and experience to progress in construction, particularly those from disadvantaged, underrepresented and underemployed groups. The initiative will provide advice and guidance on future employment, apprenticeship and training opportunities and developing clear routes to well-paid, sustainable employment for people at every stage in their construction career, as well as improved access to opportunities across York’s development and construction activity. By connecting individuals, training providers, community organisations and employers, the scheme hopes to address current skills gaps and boost local employment. Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of City of York Council, said: “It was the right decision to get behind Construction York and we continue to work with partners to help connect York residents to well paid jobs in the construction industry. “It is really important that we maximise job opportunities for local people while closing the skills gap that exists in the region. “We have a lot of work to be getting on with, including various sites across the city, York Central and the imminent adoption of the Local Plan. “Our vision is that when people look down over York from a vantage point like Severus Hill they see it as teeming with opportunity for them, their friends and families.”  
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