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Rotherham’s advanced manufacturing sector leads regional productivity surge

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

Rotherham’s advanced manufacturing sector leads regional productivity surge

Rotherham’s economic growth has soared over the past two decades, with the town recording an impressive 63.9% increase in productivity between 2004 and 2023. This surge has been driven by the success of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District, a collaborative effort with Sheffield, which includes the renowned Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC). The centre has attracted both local and international investment, with its recent involvement in the Rolls-Royce Small Modular Reactors (SMR) project underscoring its cutting-edge capabilities.

South Yorkshire, with Rotherham at its heart, is seeing its industrial base undergo a renaissance. This growth has come from a combination of public-private partnerships, focused regeneration projects, and strategic investment in advanced manufacturing, positioning the region as a key player in the UK’s industrial future.

Rotherham’s transformation has not gone unnoticed. The ongoing redevelopment of former industrial sites like the Orgreave mine is a testament to the area’s commitment to innovation and long-term economic sustainability. Key to this success has been collaboration between the public sector, developers like Harworth Group, and local institutions, ensuring the region remains an attractive proposition for businesses and academia alike.

With future plans for infrastructure upgrades, including a new railway station and the creation of additional business spaces, Rotherham is poised to continue its growth, creating a blueprint for industrial regeneration across the North.

Museums give Leeds economy multi-million pound boost

Tess Egginton

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2nd July 2025

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Museums give Leeds economy multi-million pound boost

Leeds’ council-run museums and galleries have provided a £47.3m boost to the local economy over the past year, new figures have revealed. The latest economic impact report compiled by Leeds Museums and Galleries sets out the figures, with the service’s eight sites also welcoming 939,494 people in the same period.

Aimed at assessing the positive impact of the sites on the city and the region, the figures are calculated using factors such as overall spend on and off sites, employment impact and overall spend on local goods and services. Against an annual budget of approximately £5m, the figures mean that every £1 invested in museums and galleries in turn generates £9 for the city. As well as the economic benefits, the report also captures the social impact the service has, with 105,501 children and adults taking part in family activities, 46,349 school pupils visiting, as well as 38,855 visits from vulnerable adults and young adults. Successful applications for grant funding over the course of the year also brought £2,394,855 into the city and the use of local services supported 100 external jobs worth £3.3m. The news comes after the service recently launched a new contactless “Pay What Your Can” entrance model at Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Kirkstall Abbey and Leeds Discovery Centre, asking visitors to help support the upkeep of the attractions and the care and conservation of more than 1.3 million objects. Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “The fact our museums and galleries have managed to achieve so much against such a uniquely challenging climate for the sector and for local authorities really does speak volumes about the exceptional work which goes into creating a visitor offer that’s exciting, innovative, and appealing to visitors. “The economic impact these wonderful attractions have unquestionably makes a huge difference to the city each and every year, but just as important is the social value our sites have, giving people of all ages the chance to engage with history, heritage, art and the natural world in a multitude of different ways, supporting education, combatting social isolation and raising the city’s profile as a national and international cultural destination. “Now more than ever we need the support of the public to ensure council-run museums and galleries remain accessible, sustainable and can carry on inspiring visitors for generations to come.” Leeds Museums and Galleries operates eight sites in total: Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Temple Newsam House, Lotherton Hall, Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds Industrial Museum and the Leeds Discovery Centre.

Public inquiry opens for Lincoln’s £200m relief road project

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

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Public inquiry opens for Lincoln’s £200m relief road project

A public inquiry has commenced into the proposed North Hykeham relief road, a £200m project designed to complete the ring road around Lincoln. The new road would connect the A46 with the Eastern Bypass, improving traffic flow and providing vital infrastructure for the city’s growth.

The scheme has sparked objections from landowners and businesses who are facing potential land acquisition. Over the next two weeks, an independent inspector will hear from Lincolnshire County Council, as well as other supporters of the plan. A few objectors, including Travelodge Hotels, have been represented at the inquiry, with further objections expected in the coming weeks. These objectors will have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses supporting the project.

Despite some opposition, the council remains confident in the project’s broad support. A £110m government funding pledge was made in 2019, covering over half of the project’s total cost. However, confirmation of this funding is still pending, as the current Labour government has yet to finalise the capital spend review. The Reform UK administration has confirmed its commitment to providing the remaining £90m.

If the project proceeds on schedule, the road is expected to be operational by late 2028.

Council takes back control as private contract ends

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

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Council takes back control as private contract ends

North East Lincolnshire Council has taken the step of managing key services in-house after ending its long-standing contract with private delivery partner, Equans. This marks the first time in 15 years that services such as highways, transport, building control, security, facilities management, and planning will fall under the direct responsibility of the council.

In 2008, the council chose to partner with a private sector organisation to handle these services, with a formal contract signed in 2010 with Balfour Beatty Workplace, now known as Equans Services Limited. The contract was extended in 2020, but recent decisions confirmed that it would not be renewed when it expires in 2025.

The council’s leadership sees this shift as an opportunity to realign services for greater efficiency and effectiveness, bringing all operations under one team. The 270 Equans employees transitioning back into the council will increase the total workforce to nearly 2,000, with the majority being local to the area.

This transition is part of the council’s strategy to ensure long-term sustainability in service delivery while maintaining high standards in key public services. The council is now focusing on integrating these functions smoothly into its operations over the coming months.

HARIBO UK invests £35m in new facilities to meet growing demand

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

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HARIBO UK invests £35m in new facilities to meet growing demand

HARIBO UK is set to open a new purpose-built warehouse in Castleford early next year as part of a £35m investment in its operations. The company has committed the funds to upgrade its facilities, including an additional production and packaging line, aimed at addressing increased demand for its products. Caddick Construction has been appointed to build the warehouse, with work slated to begin in early 2024.

The investment is designed to strengthen HARIBO UK’s market position and secure jobs in the region. The company has had a successful financial year, boasting a record market share of 22.6% and a 7.7% increase in turnover. Alongside infrastructure development, HARIBO UK is expanding its retail footprint, with new stores planned for both Kent’s Bluewater Shopping Centre and Scotland’s Silverburn Shopping Centre in Glasgow.

As a headline sponsor of the Pontefract Liquorice Festival this July, the company continues to support local events and its longstanding connection to Yorkshire’s confectionery heritage. HARIBO UK’s continued investment and growth reflect its ongoing commitment to innovation and regional manufacturing excellence.

Metro Bank secures £19.7m deal for Hepworth Clay’s growth under new ownership

April Lara

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2nd July 2025

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Metro Bank secures £19.7m deal for Hepworth Clay’s growth under new ownership

Metro Bank has finalised a £19.7m asset-based lending deal to support Hepworth Clay, the UK’s sole manufacturer of vitrified clay pipes, now under the ownership of 4D Capital Partners LLP. The financial package includes invoice and stock finance, a plant and machinery term loan, as well as ongoing working capital.

Hepworth Clay, a key player in the Midlands manufacturing sector, produces drainage solutions and terracotta construction products, sourcing materials from its own quarries. This financing will enable the company to continue its operations and expand under its new ownership.

Metro Bank’s involvement comes as part of its broader strategy to support regional manufacturing businesses. The bank worked alongside 4D Capital and various advisors to structure a deal that addresses the unique needs of Hepworth Clay, ensuring it remains a vital part of the local economy.

4D Capital Partners, which has recently acquired Hepworth, was advised by a range of local professionals, including Quantuma and Shoosmiths. Metro Bank’s team provided the necessary flexibility to navigate the complexities of the deal, marking a strong step in the bank’s commitment to supporting UK manufacturing.

Research centre launched by universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham to position UK as a global leader in clean technology

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Research centre launched by universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham to position UK as a global leader in clean technology

A major new research centre set to position the UK as a global leader in clean technology by replacing fossil petrochemicals and recycling industrial waste using sustainable chemistry, is being launched by researchers at the universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham.

As referenced in the UK government’s recent Industrial Strategy, Great British (GB) Chemicals brings together researchers from a total of 10 universities who will work with stakeholders throughout the chemical industry to produce cleaner versions of the chemicals that we depend on in our modern lives, to reduce pollution, ensure resilience, and secure economic sustainability.

The centre is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Natural Environment Research Centre (NERC).

Led by Professor Peter Styring from the University of Sheffield, and Professors Libby Gibson from Newcastle University and Mike George from the University of Nottingham, GB Chemicals aims to accelerate the deployment of world-leading laboratory research through real-world demonstration and validation, and promote UK investment, job creation and potential export markets for the chemical industry.

Kedar Pandya, executive director for strategy at EPSRC, said: “This investment by EPSRC and NERC will drive a sustainable chemical industrial future, shifting the UK away from environmentally harmful processes towards circular alternatives that improves peoples’ lives and drive economic growth.

“Working closely with industry partners, this will be a systems approach that optimises the interdependencies between environmental net gain, decarbonisation, and resource efficiency.

“By embedding environmental science within manufacturing solutions, we’re enabling an environmentally sound net zero transition that has a positive impact on biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural resources – aligning with priorities in the clean energy industries sector plan.”

Professor Peter Styring, professor of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at the University of Sheffield and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “The award of Great British Chemicals reflects a great effort by our 10-university team to put a sustainable chemicals industry at the forefront of a long-needed transition.

“We will take emissions from foundation industries to provide the feedstocks to drive future chemicals production. One of the things that shone through during the process was the enthusiasm of the team to succeed and to help develop a world-leading new chemicals sector.

“There will be challenges: technical, economic and social, however we have the right team to deliver that to where there are currently gaps, and we have the flexibility in funding to bring in new partners and stakeholders.

“We already have combined experience in developing technologies to pre-commercial systems and we have shown that working as teams on a consolidated whole systems approach can deliver results at an accelerated pace. Co-creation with our stakeholders can drive that even more when we work together as a focused team.”

Professor Libby Gibson, professor of Energy Materials at Newcastle University, and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “I’m delighted that we have been awarded the opportunity to lead Great British Chemicals. Carbon from the petrochemical industry is embedded in almost every manufactured product.

“If we want to cut pollution, improve health outcomes, become more resilient, grow the economy, provide jobs and keep products affordable, we need to urgently accelerate the deployment of smarter technology that keeps carbon in use rather than digging it up and then discarding it.

“This award enables us to unlock that opportunity, by driving innovation from the lab bench to the industrial backbone through our partnerships, pilots, data, and training. Ultimately, this will enable the community to secure investment, strengthen policy and create a lasting benefit for the planet.”

Professor Michael George, professor of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham, and co-director of GB Chemicals, said: “The UK chemical using industries are an under-appreciated jewel in our country’s economy. I am thrilled to be part of Great British Chemicals, helping to shift this sector towards sustainable operations. Success needs the participation of our wide range of university and industrial stakeholders focusing on the skills agenda.

“Our centre recognises the vital role of technical professionals in research across academia and industry. This includes partnership with the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy, aligning with the Technician Commitment to support visibility, opportunity and the sustainability of skills.”

Great British Chemicals is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the Natural Environment Research Council, both part of UKRI. The centre will be funded at a full economic cost of £22.5 million for seven years.

GB Chemicals will begin officially on 1 August 2025, although work has already begun to ensure the consortium hits the ground running.

New managing partner appointed at Arc Pensions Law

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

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Arc Pensions Law has appointed Anna Copestake as managing partner. Anna has spent her career so far as a pension lawyer, advising on a broad range of both defined benefit and defined contribution pension arrangements, including for trustees, sponsors, insurers and service providers. Having joined Arc Pensions Law in 2016, Anna has played a key role in the development of the firm’s defined contribution and investment practice, combining technical insight with commercial pragmatism. Anna will be taking over as managing partner from Kate Payne and will focus on the delivery of Arc Pensions Law’s long-term strategy and growth, while Kate returns to her full-time client-facing role. Senior partner Anna Rogers said: “Anna Copestake approached us at Arc more or less the day we launched in 2015 and has always been passionate about the business side of pensions law. She’s developed an impressive legal practice and now is the time for her to step into a management role. “Anna has been integral to the growth of the firm from the very early days, and she knows it inside out. We see Arc as the pensions law firm for the future and the next generation of pension lawyers are crucial in driving the change and innovations that lie ahead. “I’d also like to thank Kate Payne for her leadership as managing partner, and I know she is looking forward to focusing on clients full-time again.” Commenting on her appointment, Anna Copestake said: “It is a privilege to be entering the next phase of my career at Arc as managing partner. With pensions law evolving at pace, our strength lies in the clarity, confidence and technical excellence with which we service our clients.” Kate Payne said: “I am excited for this next chapter of Arc Pensions Law. I have immense confidence in Anna Copestake, and I am proud to be leaving this role firmly in her capable hands. I look forward to continuing my practice and supporting the firm’s growth in the years ahead.”

Eutechtics secures Smart Grant to decarbonise chemicals

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

0

Eutechtics secures Smart Grant to decarbonise chemicals

Eutechtics, a Sheffield chemistry startup developing low-carbon routes to essential industrial chemicals, has been awarded a Smart Grant from Innovate UK. It recognises Eutechtics’ innovative platform technology for producing carboxylic acids from captured CO₂, using significantly less energy than conventional processes — a breakthrough with far-reaching implications for sustainable chemical manufacturing. The grant is match-funded by Prosemino, a specialist venture studio. In total, Eutechtics has raised £400,000 aimed at scaling up the platform and driving it toward commercial readiness. This strategic support marks a major step forward in Eutechtics’ mission to decarbonise critical chemical supply chains. “This award is a huge vote of confidence in our technology and our vision for fossil-free chemical manufacturing,” said Armando Leal, CEO and co-founder of Eutechtics. “We’re proud to be developing a platform that doesn’t just reduce emissions, but reimagines the supply chain using waste CO₂ as a resource.” “Prosemino was built to create the next generation of climate tech companies—starting from first principles,” said Dr. Gyen Ming Angel, director of venture building at Prosemino. “We don’t just invest or provide space – we work side-by-side with founders to turn the real needs of early-stage science-led startups, so teams like Eutechtics can focus on development from day one – not setup or logistics.”

Hull occupational health services provider expands with acquisition

Tess Egginton

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1st July 2025

0

Hull occupational health services provider expands with acquisition

Latus Group, the Hull-based providers of occupational health services, has acquired Peritus Health Management. The acquisition, which was supported by NorthEdge private equity, represents a strategic consolidation within the sector and significantly scales Latus Group’s capacity and geographical reach.

Peritus, based in Brighouse, is a provider of occupational health, health surveillance and occupational hygiene services and has delivered consistent growth of 20% year-on-year for the last five years.

Amanda Dowson, founder of Peritus, brings over 30 years of occupational health and safety management expertise as a Specialist Practitioner and Chartered Member of IOSH. She’s a long-standing committee member of the Yorkshire Branch IOSH Group and has led quality management systems to SEQOHS standards. Julian Dowson, an Occupational Hygienist and Peritus Director, specialises in practical health risk management through robust controls and workplace monitoring. His vocational education background enhances his on-site teaching, influencing positive behavioural safety.

All 30 Peritus employees have been welcomed into the Latus team and operations will continue to be supported from a new Brighouse-based office. Jack Latus, CEO of Latus Group, said: “This deal marks an exciting step forward in our mission to modernise occupational health. Peritus has earned a strong reputation for quality, integrity, and service and those values are right at the heart of what we’re building at Latus. “As businesses continue to turn to joined-up, future-ready workplace health solutions, this acquisition enables us to offer clients a broader, more seamless service, from hygiene monitoring through to health surveillance, all in one place and all working together, supporting UK businesses to maintain statutory health compliance and beyond. “By bringing together our strengths, we’re creating a stronger, smarter platform that’s fit for the future of workplace health in the UK.” Sam Latus, COO of Latus Group, said: “Peritus is highly complementary to Latus, which has built strong relationships through trust, clinical excellence, and personalised service. We’re excited to welcome Amanda, Julian and the Peritus team to the Latus Group, working together to improve the health, safety and wellbeing of employees across the UK.” Amanda Dowson, founder of Peritus, added: “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built at Peritus, and joining Latus Group marks the beginning of a new chapter. Our shared values and complementary services make this a natural fit and we’re confident that our customers and team will benefit enormously from the opportunities ahead.”

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