2024 Business Predictions: Eamon Fox, Knight Frank partner and head of offices and development in Yorkshire
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Eamon Fox, Knight Frank partner and head of offices and development in Yorkshire.
It is vitally important to remain positive in these difficult economic times and to remind ourselves that demand for space in Leeds remains strong, despite all the challenges we faced in 2023. Two key facts stand out in the Leeds office market: Occupier take-up is 20 per cent higher compared with 10 years ago and eight per cent higher than 2022. The continued resilience of the Leeds office market is fuelling development within the city, with rents set to reach a record high of £40 per sq ft by the end of 2024.
This is confirmation of the growing belief that the demise of the office, like the death of Mark Twain, has been greatly exaggerated. The anecdotal evidence over the past couple of months suggests it has. Employers are beginning to realise that their control over the working hours and practices of their staff is being steadily eroded and whilst dedicated staff will continue to give their all, less committed and scrupulous employees will use working from home as a free pass to do the bare minimum, if that. I believe this trend will continue during the next 12 months.
It is very significant that Amazon has issued a warning to staff who are not spending at least three days a week in the office. Meta, formerly Facebook, has told its workers to do the same. And if further proof were needed that working from home has officially been replaced by return to office, it was provided by Zoom. The firm, whose revenues jumped 300% during the first year of the pandemic, has asked employees to come in for at least two days a week. The city centre retail market is consequently picking up.
In Leeds, a couple of strong trends are worth noting. The first is the role that successful schools and universities are playing play in the social and economic growth of the city. Leeds is now set to benefit from the first-class education establishments in its midst, with the new Mathematics School of Excellence already open in Albion Street and Leeds Trinity University moving its city campus to Trevelyan Square in Boar Lane in September. Meanwhile the city continues to attract significant new financial occupiers like the National Infrastructure Bank, the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority.
In more good news, the Channel 4 knock-on effect continues to be significant, building on the city’s reputation of being a magnet for bright young tech, media and creative companies, as well as tech-savvy law firms, with state-of-the-art buildings such as 12 King Street, Tailors Corner, 34 Boar Lane, Globe Point and City Square House welcoming some of the best in class.
Finally, I believe deals will get smaller by up to 30 per cent. There will be a flight to quality, with occupiers willing to pay more to secure shiny new state-of-the-art workplaces that promote strong mental health and employee wellbeing. This should help to further improve the quality of space on offer in the city and, as I have suggested, push rents in Leeds to new heights. 2024 promises to be an exciting year.
Yorkshire Water agrees purchase of energy from Scottish wind farm
Yorkshire Water has agreed to buy electricity generated by a new wind farm in the Scottish Highlands.
Currently being built, the new wind farm will have seven turbines capable of generating about 100,000 MWh a year from the end of next year
The power purchase agreement is the latest effort by Yorkshire Water to meet its 2030 Carbon net zero pledge and the electricity from Strathrory will provide approximately 17% of the annual power used by Yorkshire Water across its operations.
Daniel Oxley, Yorkshire Water commercial programme manager, said: “This project is a significant step in reaching our aims of carbon net zero by 2030 and supports our strategy of generating more of our own electricity and buying UK-generated renewable energy.
“Once completed, the Strathrory Wind Farm will provide approximately 17% of our annual power needs, increasing our renewable energy use, reducing our exposure to energy price volatility and reducing the operational costs of our sites, which will provide better value for money for our customers.”
The project was developed by Energiekontor AG and is being funded by Capital Dynamics. Once operational, it will benefit from Capital Dynamics’ and Energiekontor’s long-standing operations management experience.
Barney Coles, MD and co-head of clean energy at Capital Dynamics, said: “By supporting a national utility company with its goal of reaching net zero by 2030, we are emphasising Capital Dynamics’ commitment to responsible investing.”
Siemens creates 35 jobs in Goole and promises more to come
Siemens Mobility has recruited 35 new employees in the first major wave of recruitment for its state-of-the-art trains manufacturing facility in Goole as it prepares for a start to production in spring.
The first major wave of recruitment will be followed by scores of further roles that will be available over coming months across multiple functions, including Mechanical and electrical technicians for train assembly, Warehouse and logistics operatives, and Quality assurance
Mark Speed, Site Director and General Manager of Siemens Mobility in Goole, said: “It’s an incredibly exciting time for the project with the recruitment programme moving forward strongly ahead of production starting in 2024.
“We’re absolutely delighted with the calibre of recruits and they’ve already hit the ground running. They will all have an important part to play in the success of this pioneering project.
“This is just the first in a series of waves of recruitment, with many more exciting opportunities opening up over coming months. Those positions will all be posted on the careers section of the Siemens website as they become available, so we’re urging people to register on the Careers site and save alerts for Goole to ensure they are aware of the jobs as soon as they come out.”
The global rail technology leader is investing up to £200m in developing the facility in the East Yorkshire town, where it is creating up to 700 skilled jobs, as well as generating around 1,700 new employment opportunities in the supply chain.
Rolling stock for the UK train market will be manufactured at the factory, starting with new Piccadilly line Tube trains for Transport for London. The factory is the centrepiece of a wider rail village, featuring a train components servicing facility, a materials and logistics warehouse, and a research, development and innovation cluster, establishing Goole as a centre of excellence for rail technology in the UK.
The recruits have already enjoyed a “meet and greet” visit to Siemens Mobility’s metros centre of excellence in Vienna, as the first stage of an extensive knowledge exchange programme involving periods of training at the Austrian site.
The latest team members have a broad range of backgrounds, with Siemens Mobility keen to hire people with relevant, transferable skills, rather than just those specifically with experience in the rail industry.
They include individuals with backgrounds in modular construction and the armed forces, among others, reflecting this focus on skills and expertise that can be applied successfully to the new roles.
As a responsible employer, Siemens Mobility is committed to equality and diversity, including gender balance across all its operations. It offers flexible employment to help its staff manage their work-life balance, along with training and development programmes to support career progression.
Niraj Sondhi, Commercial Director for Siemens Mobility in Goole, said:
“Here at Siemens Mobility, we offer careers, not just jobs. We look after our people and support them in their professional development.
“We’re also strongly committed to playing our full part in supporting the local community, above and beyond the investment we’re making in our new facilities and the jobs we’re creating.
“Siemens Mobility is a global company operating in the heart of East Yorkshire and we’re proud to be a part of the Goole community.”
Simon moves from Lupton Fawcett to take on new role as Director of BRM Dispute Resolution team
Simon Lockley has left his role as head of Lupton Fawcett’s Sheffield office to become a Director with Chesterfield and Sheffield-based law firm BRM.
His appointment comes alongside three others of Kirsty Coggin as Senior Associate, Annabel Denby Hollis as Senior Solicitor and Adam Mayer as Chartered Legal Executive, to the firm’s Dispute Resolution team.
Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam are joining Simon in the move after a combined 15 years with Lupton Fawcett and have started at the firm this week. Annabel will join BRM next week.
Simon is regularly instructed by both corporate and individual clients in high-value litigation and specialises in company and shareholder disputes, complex contractual claims and professional negligence.
He also has extensive experience in claims against employees and directors for breach of contract/duty, civil fraud and insolvency litigation.
Listed as a key individual in his field in the Legal 500 UK, Simon is regarded as ‘highly rated by clients’ and ‘technically superb’.
He said: “BRM is an ambitious, modern and forward-thinking firm and I am delighted to be joining its Dispute Resolution team as a Director. The firm is business-focussed and has a fantastic reputation in Sheffield and Chesterfield as well as the wider city region”.
“BRM is making a real statement and both my team, and I are looking forward to being part of the firm’s growth in Sheffield and its ambitions for the future.”
Rob Cooke, Head of Dispute Resolution and Executive Director at BRM, said: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome Simon, Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam to the Dispute Resolution team here at BRM.
“As we have previously worked together, I know first-hand the fantastic reputation Simon has both in the city and the profession and the positive difference he will make to our team.
“Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam will bring their collective experience to the team and will position us as the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.”
Kirsty joins the firm as Senior Associate and was recently rated as a ‘Key Lawyer’ in the Legal 500.
She said: “BRM is dynamic and forward looking. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the firm and be part of its growth and exciting vision for the future.”
Tourism businesses offered cash to create holiday accommodation
Tourism businesses in East Yorkshire are being invited to apply for grants to transform old buildings into holiday accommodation or develop must-visit attractions.
Dawn Hall of the Invest East Yorkshire team said: “If you’re looking to grow your tourism business, we may have the financial support you need. It’s well worth giving our team of knowledgeable and friendly business advisers a call to discuss your project and check your eligibility for grant funding.” Part of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the Invest East Yorkshire team’s business advisors are available to work with tourism business owners who want to attract more visitors and/or increase visitor spending. A range of different funding options are available to give tourism businesses a welcome boost, as well as practical support and advice. Invest East Yorkshire is able to help eligible local businesses access grants though the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). Advisers work closely with business owners to help them identify projects that will help their business grow and evolve, as well as identifying any sources of grant funding that may be available to help them cover the costs. For more information or to discuss your ideas, contact the Business Support Team on 01482 391622 or email business.support@eastriding.gov.uk.Lincolnshire Chamber reveals new Head of Marketing
Héloïse Evans has been named as Head of Marketing, Communications, Policies, and Events at Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce.
She said: “The opportunity to lead a dynamic team across marketing, communications, policy, and events is truly inspiring, and I look forward to playing a key role in elevating the company’s brand and impact.”
As part of the senior management team, she will play a crucial role in shaping the company’s brand identity, communication strategies, policy advocacy, and event organisation.
Héloïse brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, with a demonstrated history of working in multiple sectors and skills, such as Marketing, Photography, and Event Planning. Going forwards, her skills will be essential in growing both Lincolnshire and Rutland Chamber of Commerce and leading the marketing and events teams.
Simon Beardsley, Chief Executive of Lincolnshire and Rutland Chamber of Commerce said: “I look forward to seeing her bring a renewed focus on creativity, strategic thinking, and impactful communication, fostering stronger relationships with key stakeholders and our members. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Héloïse aligns seamlessly with our future goals, undoubtedly contributing to our continued success.”
Héloïse will be working closely with the Chief Executive and overseeing all Marketing and Events activity, working alongside the team and businesses across Lincolnshire to oversee the marketing and events plan. This includes creating and developing the business’ marketing strategy and evolving the company’s presence.
New year brings new home for chartered accountants in Newark
Chartered Accountancy firm Wright Vigar has relocated to a new office space in the centre of Newark in response to sustained growth.
The new office at Morton House in the town’s Appleton Gate offers expanded space in a more central location to allow them to be in the heart of the business community. The decision to relocate was driven by the company’s remarkable growth trajectory and the need for a larger, more accessible space to accommodate the expanding team and to better serve its ever-increasing client base. The new office’s central location is strategically chosen to be more convenient and accessible for staff, clients and business partners with parking accessible from Bede House Lane.
Director Paul Colcomb said: “We’re thrilled about the opportunities this relocation brings. It’s a testament to the hard work of our team and the trust our clients have placed in us. This move allows us to expand our team and better serve the local community,” said at Wright Vigar.”
Starting as a partnership, Wright Vigar have been providing accountancy, audit and taxation services for over 40 years. During that time the practice has grown the number of offices and increased their extensive range of services and expertise to support private clients and businesses across all sectors. Wright Vigar provide a personal relationship-based service whilst having the expertise through the depth of their team to provide all the specialist services expected of a large practice.
Learners and employers are celebrated at awards event
Hull Training and Adult Education presented 19 awards at its annual Learner Awards, recognising the achievements of adult learners, apprentices and employers.
Cllr Linda Tock, Hull City Council’s portfolio holder for Hull Training, said: “It was fantastic to see everyone connected to HTAE come together to celebrate yet another successful year.
“HTAE is an invaluable service which helps to secure a positive and sustainable future for Hull through decisive leadership and the development of inclusive partnerships and communities.
“It is only right that those who work so hard to make HTAE so efficient and are recognised.”
The award winners iwere:
- Business and Management Apprentice of the Year – Harvey Taylor (sponsored by TLJ Access Control)
- Community Learning Achievement of the Year – Holly Cryan
- Construction Apprentice of the Year – Erin Symons (sponsored by Simpson (York))
- Engineering Apprentice of the Year – Angel Doherty (sponsored by Swift Group)
- Functional Skills apprentice of the Year – Ka Chu
- Construction Achievement of the Year – Holly Jordan (sponsored by Intertech Contracts UK)
- Construction Achievement Award – James Taylor, Brad Stone, Ryan Donkin, Callum Manning
- ESOL Achievement of the Year – Olha Mykhalchenko
- Achievement of the Year (Overcoming Barriers) – Amelia Wilson (sponsored by Connexin Academy)
- Vocational Achievement of the Year – Janet Short and Chris Fox
- Higher Engineering Award – Richard Cartwright (sponsored by MACH Machine Tools Ltd)
- Higher Business and Management Award – Shaun Butcher
- Speaker on her Apprenticeship Journey – Georgie Roberts from Hull City Council’s Employment Hub
- Signmaking Apprentice of the Year – Daniel DeVries (sponsored by Matt Vinyl Graphics)
- Skills Bootcamp Achievement of the Year – David Eastburn (sponsored by Ideal Heating)
- Hull City Council Apprentice of the Year – Abbie Kudla
- Partner of the Year – Connexin
- Employer of the Year – Swift Group (sponsored by Geo Houlton & Sons)
- HTAE Apprentice of the Year – Angel Doherty (sponsored by Connexin)
Countryside Partnerships secures contract to build affordable Barnsley homes
Countryside Partnerships, the mixed-tenure developer, has secured a contract with housing provider The Guinness Partnership to build 40 affordable homes in Shafton, Barnsley.
The site, owned by Homes England, has lain vacant for a significant period of time, but it will now be transformed into a 100% affordable development providing detached and semi-detached houses and terraces made up of two, three and four bedroom homes, as well as two bungalows.
The site marks the third collaboration between Countryside Partnerships’ Yorkshire business and The Guinness Partnership, building on their developments at Foxhill in Sheffield, where 167 affordable homes have been delivered, and at Jossey Lane in Doncaster, where 86 homes are under construction, 41 of which are for Guinness.
Andrew Poyner, Managing Director of Countryside Partnerships Yorkshire, said: “This site has a long history and we’re delighted to see it finally moving forward in partnership with Guinness.
“Our shared commitment to providing high-quality, mixed-tenure housing across the region is evident, having already delivered over 200 affordable homes together. This new development will transform a previously redundant space that has long been earmarked for development into a vibrant community.”
Angela Garrard, Development Director (North) at The Guinness Partnership, said: “We are pleased to continue working with Countryside Partnership to bring much needed high-quality affordable homes to the area, as part of Guinness’s commitment to development in Barnsley, and South Yorkshire.”
Look out for changes in childcare funding for working parents, say out-of-school club owners
The owners of award-winning out-of-school club Roboodles have urged parents of young children in North Yorkshire to ensure they benefit from national changes to funding for childcare from next April.
Roboodles is an independent breakfast and after school club operating from the premises of Roecliffe Church of England Primary School in Boroughbridge.
Run by Lianne Conroy and Claire Bennett, 51 children attend the club, which is more than half of the children at the school. Last year, it won the “Out of School Club of the Year 2023” award and was highly commended in the “Team of the Year” and “Mental Health and Wellbeing 2023” categories organised by Club Central.
Lianne Conroy said: “We feel the changes recognise the crucial support that our sector provides to working parents and the economy.
“By the government making available the potential for some grant funding, we hope this will help providers play a vital part in filling the gaps where current wraparound care is oversubscribed, limited in availability or missing altogether.”
Currently there is funded childcare available for families of two-year-olds who are in receipt of some additional form of government support. This will not change and families should continue to apply for government funding through our online application form.
However, from April this year, working parents of two-year-old children may be able to access 15 hours of funded childcare. Eligible working families can start to apply for this entitlement.
The changes include:
- From April 2024, eligible working families of two-year-old children will be entitled to up to 15 hours of government-funded childcare per week (based on 38 weeks per year).
- From September 2024, potentially eligible working families will be eligible to up to 15 hours of government-funded childcare the term after their child has turned nine months old (based on 38 weeks per year).
- From September 2025, when all the changes have been introduced, eligible working families with children under the age of five years will be entitled to up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare (based on 38 weeks per year).
To qualify for the new government childcare funding, parents/carers must:
- Be in work.
- Earn a minimum of the equivalent of 16 hours a week at the national living or minimum wage.
- Earn less than £100,000 a year.
This applies to both parents in a couple (so each parent must fit the criteria) and to single parents in a single parent household. Parents must meet the working family criteria to be eligible for the government funded childcare entitlement.
Executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said: “Changes to childcare will mean many more families in North Yorkshire may benefit from a funded place for their children. It is vital for potentially eligible working parents and carers of two-year-old children start planning now if they are going to take up the Government’s offer of funded childcare from April, especially as all government funding starts the term after a child’s eligible birth date.
“We are also urging providers to prepare for the changes so that they can meet any extra demand for places.”
