Extreme weather and the risk of major flooding events are on the rise in the UK. Property level flood resilience (PFR) measures – such as flood doors and smart air bricks – are available to property owners, but adoption remains limited.

RSA Insurance, an Intact company, will partner with the University of Hull’s Energy and Environment Institute (EEI) to measure the effectiveness of PFR in various scenarios, support their adoption, and help individuals, businesses and communities adapt to a changing climate.

Although many properties face flood risk, commercial properties present additional challenges such as accessibility, security doors, and high traffic, which are not addressed by existing PFR products. The research will explore these issues and work to identify flood resilience solutions that meet the needs of business operations.

The partnership will also facilitate the creation of evidence-based tools to help businesses assess and manage their flood risk more effectively.

Professor Fiona Matthews, pro-vice-chancellor for research, said: “Flood resilience is a key strategic area of expertise at the University of Hull. This partnership marks a significant step towards innovative flood risk management solutions that are crucial for addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

“Our collaboration will allow us to translate research findings into practical actions that businesses can take to protect their properties from flooding.”

The work will be led by Stuart McLelland, professor of Water Science and lead researcher for the Total Environment Simulator (TES) experimental facility.

Professor McLelland said: “This is an exciting opportunity to work with RSA to build on our expertise in flood resilience and improve understanding of how property-level measures can be used to reduce flood risk.

“Together we will look at opportunities for product innovation, so that individuals and organisations can take appropriate steps to reduce their flood risk, promoting resilience in the face of more frequent flooding.”

Alison Gardner, head of UK&I social impact and ESG, RSA Insurance, an Intact company, said: “As climate change contributes to more intense and frequent flooding, the need for adaptation has never been more urgent. It’s not enough to respond to extreme weather, we must prepare for it.

“This research plays a vital role in building the evidence base we need to understand what works, where, and for whom. By focusing on commercial properties, which face unique challenges, we can help shape practical tools and solutions that support a more resilient future for businesses and communities alike.”

URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries has entered a strategic partnership with Mizan Syed’s Exultant Group to spearhead its national expansion, starting with Greater London. This move aligns with URBAN’s plans for growth, as it looks to scale its fresh, customisable burger brand beyond its South Yorkshire base.

Syed, an experienced operator with over 20 years in franchising, will open the first London location later this year. He brings with him a portfolio of established brands, including Pret A Manger and Pizza Hut, and a strong reputation for operational expertise. URBAN Fresh Burgers & Fries, known for its focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients and a modern, inviting dining experience, is set to benefit from Syed’s experience in scaling brands in the UK market.

The partnership reflects URBAN’s commitment to sustainable growth through long-term, value-driven collaborations. The brand, which launched in 2017, offers a menu that includes 100% fresh British beef, chicken, and vegetarian options, all made to order, along with hand-cut fries. The company’s flexible franchise model allows for halal-certified locations, expanding its appeal to a diverse audience.

URBAN’s ambition to grow nationally is built on a strong foundation of product quality and customer experience, with plans for further expansion after the success of its first London site.

Immanuel College in Bradford is expanding its sixth form facilities with a £4m project that will increase student capacity by 100, bringing the total to 330 students by September. The expansion is a response to growing demand and oversubscription, with the school among 42 education providers eligible for post-16 Government funding.

Property consultancy Eddisons provided comprehensive support for the project, acting as technical adviser for the Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, from securing funding to overseeing design, planning, and construction management. The college’s new building will feature six classrooms, a social study area, a common room, and a dining space. Sustainability is a key focus, with solar panels, LED lighting, and enhanced insulation incorporated into the design.

The project also includes improvements to the school’s sports facilities, including a levelled area for a Sports England-compliant football pitch. Additional outdoor accessible space has been created for students.

Construction began after receiving planning approval in 2023, and the new facilities are set to provide a modern, sustainable learning environment for the expanding student cohort.

The West and North Yorkshire Chamber will lead a trade mission to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain in November, continuing its strategy of fostering international business ties. The mission will take place from November 9-14 and aims to expand trade partnerships in these key Middle Eastern markets.

Building on the success of previous missions to regions such as the USA, UAE, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, the Chamber plans to facilitate high-level networking, economic forums, and industry-specific roundtable discussions. The events will offer businesses in Yorkshire a chance to meet potential partners and explore growth opportunities within these expanding economies.

The itinerary for the mission is still under development by the Chamber’s team, with collaborations planned alongside Leeds Bradford Airport, HSBC, the British Embassies in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and the British Chamber of Commerce Bahrain. The mission will be self-funded, emphasising the Chamber’s commitment to driving regional business interests on a global scale.

Two York-based professionals are offering local business leaders a practical opportunity to improve their communication strategies and strengthen employee engagement. Karen Tinkler, a PR expert, and Michelle Mook, an employee engagement specialist, are hosting a free, half-day workshop on 11 September 2025, designed to help businesses build an appealing internal culture and employer brand.

The workshop will explore how businesses can leverage their brand, story, and culture to stand out in a competitive job market. Attendees will learn actionable strategies for improving external messaging to attract the right candidates and how to implement communication techniques that boost employee retention and satisfaction.

Research suggests poor communication contributes to low employee engagement, a key challenge for many employers. This session will offer solutions to address these issues and increase motivation and productivity across teams.

The event will take place at Pro-Development’s office at Forest Farm Business Park in York. Registration is open to business leaders interested in taking steps to create a stronger, more engaging workplace.