Fusion energy project appoints three new non-exec directors
UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd has appointed three new non-exec directors to support of the delivery of the UK’s prototype fusion energy plant.
Kaveh Pourteymour, Julie Nerney and Dr Luc Bardin will be part of STEP, the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production, to be built at the former West Burton Power Station near Gainsborough, which aims to demonstrate net energy from fusion alongside paving the way for the commercialisation of fusion energy.
These strategic appointments follow the launch of a multi-stage competition to find industry partners – one in engineering and one in construction – to form a public-private alliance led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of UK Atomic Energy Authority Group, to deliver STEP.
Professor David Gann, Chair of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kaveh, Julie and Luc to our Board, together with Charlotte Valeur and our other executive and non-exec members. Their strategic insights will be invaluable as we navigate the delivery of a new technology to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of an emerging industry.”
Kaveh is currently Managing Director – Head of Business Partnering and Projects for global mining group, Rio Tinto, and joins the UKIFS Board as a digital transformation leader with over 30 years’ experience spanning energy, utilities and manufacturing in addition to complex systems engineering and digital modelling. Throughout his career, Kaveh has successfully implemented cutting edge solutions to enhance business performance delivered through operating models that incorporated diversity and inclusion at their heart.
Julie has been delivering impactful and sustainable change in organisations for over 30 years in roles that span c-suite and board level, experiencing every stage of the organisational life cycle. She has delivered high profile and complex programmes, including a leadership role in the transport operation for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and was appointed as a Non-Executive Director of the Supreme Court in February 2023.
A current Non-Executive Director on the UKAEA Group Board, Dr Luc Bardin joins for a shorter period to help with the transition from UKAEA to UKIFS, where his world renowned expertise in organisational development and strategic partnering will be of immense value.
The UKIFS Board will also be joined by Jamie Stapleton as Board Advisor. Jamie is currently VP Digital Innovation & Synergies at Hitachi Energy.
The new appointments join fellow independent Non-Executive Director, Charlotte Valeur, an Investment Banker and experienced FTSE Chair and Non-Executive Director. Her long board-level experience spans a host of sectors and industries and covers IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, and restructuring. She is a recognised international authority and professor in corporate governance and leadership, and author of ‘Effective Directors, Questions to Ask’.
UKIFS will be responsible for the delivery of STEP from later this year. The programme aims to create future opportunities for suppliers ranging from whole plant integrators to critical system manufacturers that can design and deliver future plants worldwide in addition to benefitting the communities that surround West Burton.
The fusion process can be thought of as the opposite of fission – combining lighter atoms rather than splitting heavier ones. It is based on the same processes that power the Sun and stars and has potential to provide safe, sustainable and low-carbon energy for generations to come.
Floormaster’s PV grant’s expected to save more than £3,500 a year on energy bills
Barnsley-based Floormaster Yorkshire has gained grant funding to invest in solar panels which will generate more than 70 percent of the energy it needs.
The company has installed 36 panels to the roof of its warehouse at Barugh Green to feed electricity into the company’s 600 sq ft showroom next-door. The company’s investment has been backed by a grant from the Net Zero Barnsley programme delivered by The Business Village in partnership with Barnsley Council.
Floormaster became eligible for a capital grant – which they’ve had to match-fund – to invest in a development to cut carbon emissions, after completing the programme.
The family firm bid for £6,000 to go halves on a £12,000 photo-voltaic system designed to switch the company to renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions by 80 per cent and slashing energy bills by half.
OPs Manager Daniel Deacey said: “We own our warehouse and its expansive roof, so when Net Zero Barnsley helped us look at the idea of putting solar panels up there to generate power for our showroom and offices it all made perfect sense.
“Even so, as a small business we probably wouldn’t have been able to afford to pay up-front for the PV system – the grant support was really important in our decision to go ahead.
“We look forward to much lower monthly energy bills soon. And, as we’ve all got to work towards net zero emissions, it feels good to have taken significant action towards that too.”
Floormaster currently uses 16,651kWh of electricity a year which amounts to 3,220kg of CO2 emissions and costs nearly £8,000 in bills.
Floormaster’s 15.3kWp PV system is expected to generate 13,000kWh of renewable energy a year and reduce the company’s carbon emissions by 2,613kg a year. The panels should save them more than £3,500 a year on energy bills and pay for themselves within three and a half years. It is also calculated that over the panels’ 22-year lifetime, they will produce 303,975 kWh of clean energy and reduce the company’s CO2 emissions 58.78 tonnes.
Pubs win extra time as England bid for Euros glory
Tomorrow night pubs and bars across England and Wales can keep their doors open until 1am as England bid to become champions of Europe, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has confirmed.
Following the Three Lions’ emphatic semi-final win on Wednesday night, the team is set to go head to head with Spain in the final of the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship.
The heavyweight clash will kick off at 8pm, with fans up and down the country coming together to show their support.
Pub licensing hours can be relaxed to mark occasions of “exceptional national significance”, meaning pubs and bars will be able to stay open for an extra 2 hours tomorrow evening.
Yvette Cooper said: “We’re so proud of Gareth Southgate and the England team. It’s right that we can all come together tomorrow to enjoy the match and—do we dare to dream?!—hopefully celebrate an England victory.
“I want to pay special thanks to the police officers and first responders who will be working across communities to keep us safe.
“I look forward to getting behind all our brilliant players, who bring so much pride to our country, and I want to wish the team the best of luck. Let’s bring it home.”
As well as bringing fans together for longer, tomorrow night’s extension is due to be a welcomed boost to the hospitality industry. Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “As with the semi-finals, pubs will be licensed to stay open until 1am on Sunday night and thanks to the Home Office for making the changes to the licensing rules for allowing this to happen. “The changes give fans even more time to enjoy the game, support our pubs and hopefully celebrate football finally coming home.“Fans have shown us resoundingly this tournament that there is no better place to watch our teams and soak up the atmosphere than the great British pub. This Sunday the BBPA urges everyone to get down their local, support our pubs and get behind the boys. Come on England!”
Robert Grafton Interiors invests £250k in refurb
Richard Grafton Interiors’ flagship showroom in Harrogate’s Montpellier Quarter has seen a complete facelift following a £250,000 investment.
“As it is 12 years since we opened our doors in the town, we have taken the opportunity to completely transform the whole showroom with an updated, contemporary look to reflect changing trends,” explains director Charlotte Grafton. “The importance of the kitchen as the heart of the home is evident and with continued client demand to see and touch our offering, we decided to put it at the centre of our refurbished Harrogate furnishings and interior design showroom.”
MD Richard Grafton adds: “We’re constantly adapting, investing and improving to offer
the very best service to clients and, in particular, we’re continuing to see huge growth within the architectural design side of the business.”
Visitors to North Yorkshire from across world bring £4bn boost to economy
New figures have revealed that tourism contributed more than £4 billion to North Yorkshire’s visitor economy last year, attracting in excess of 31 million people to sample the delights of the county.
The data highlights a strong outlook for the sector, as the summer holiday season gets underway with the average length of stay for visitors in North Yorkshire being four nights and surpassing the national average of 2.8 nights as recorded by Visit England.
The report also demonstrates how the local tourism industry supports 38,486 jobs through direct and indirect employment making up 13 per cent of all employment across North Yorkshire.
The figures have been collected for the first time on a county-wide scale using the STEAM model, which measures the economic impact of visits to an area. This provides an important baseline for the future growth of the sector.
North Yorkshire Council leader, Cllr Carl Les, said: “The release of these new figures not only confirms the importance of tourism to our local economy, but it also provides a baseline to work from as we begin an exciting new journey for the visitor economy in North Yorkshire.
“The value of the visitor economy must not be underestimated which is why we have made it a priority for us. It supports tens of thousands of jobs and sees visitors come to the county from across the world, and we are committed to ensuring that the sector continues to grow.”
Tourism businesses in York and North Yorkshire are already being given more support through a vision to help to ensure that the multi-billion pound visitor economy reaches its full potential.
It was announced in November last year that a joint bid for a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) for both York and North Yorkshire had been approved, paving the way for a far more co-ordinated and strategic approach to promoting the tourism sector.
LVEPs have been introduced as part of the national response to an independent review of how the country’s visitor economy is co-ordinated and promoted and have the potential to draw in additional support and funding from Westminster.
The partnership, which was approved by a panel involving the Visit England tourism organisation and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, is aimed at ensuring that the greatest benefits are achieved for both York and North Yorkshire’s visitor economy.
Barwood Capital acquires site in Lincoln in new strategy focused on self-storage sector
Barwood Capital has acquired its first site in Lincoln, as part of a new investment strategy focused on the growing self-storage sector which will see the company partner with self-storage specialist, Flexiss.
The acquisition was made through the Barwood Regional Property Growth Fund V. Barwood is partnering with Flexiss as an operator and development partner for the new strategy, helping to acquire vacant buildings to be transformed into modern, energy efficient self-storage assets.
Flexiss currently has c.£200m in assets under management, including new build development projects and conversion projects. The new facilities acquired in partnership with Barwood will trade through its SureStore brand.
This first acquisition centres on the Scott Storage Centre Facility, which sits within the Lincoln Westminster Industrial Estate and currently includes a purpose-built storage and removals operation, totalling 14,500 sq ft, plus 13,885 sq ft of external storage containers.
Barwood has acquired the freehold interest in this prime location and plans to repurpose the existing unit into a state-of-the-art self-storage facility with a full SureStore rebrand in early 2025. Once complete, the new store will incorporate 60,840 sq ft of space arranged over four floors, including 6,840 sq ft of external containers.
The plans target an EPC rating of A, with new features including a solar array, EV charging points and motion sensor activated energy-efficient LED lighting.
“The self-storage sector is currently under-served, with demand from both individuals and businesses, and our aim is to create a regionally focused portfolio of assets to support the sector’s growth,” said Edward Henson, Director, Head of Transactions at Barwood Capital.
“This first acquisition is a unique opportunity to create a high-quality facility, in an area where there’s an acute under-supply of self-storage accommodation. The facility will offer a cost-effective solution for domestic and business customers in the area and create direct employment opportunities.
“As with all our projects, environmental responsibility has been among the priorities; our stores will be run with the highest energy efficiencies, keeping our offering cost effective for our customers and our environmental impact to a minimum.”
Mike Wilson, CEO of Flexiss, said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Barwood Capital on this project, which will be the first in a number of projects together. We are delighted to be able to offer our customers in Lincoln innovative, sustainable and convenient self-storage solutions.”
CBRE gave agency advice, with Napthens and Osborne Clarke giving legal advice on the purchase and structure.
North Yorkshire origin testing firm snapped up by Australian company
Agroisolab UK Ltd (AIL UK), an expert team leading the development of international projects verifying the origin of food, drink, timber, and protected species using stable isotope analysis and other laboratory-based authentication technologies, has been acquired by Source Certain International Limited, an Australian company specialising in advanced forensic traceability technologies.
Agroisolab UK, based in Malton, North Yorkshire, is known for setting up projects for retailers including detecting wine fraud and authenticating organic food, such as eggs, vegetables and grain products.
The acquisition by Source Certain International Limited represents a significant milestone in the latter’s global expansion strategy, bringing in a UK-based operation with experienced technical personnel and specialised scientific solutions.
Roger Young, CEO of Agroisolab UK, will assume the role of CEO of Source Certain UK. Commenting on the acquisition, he said: “I am excited to be joining the Source Certain team.
“I can see so much opportunity in leveraging the AIL UK experience including the exciting opportunity of introducing our customers to Source Certain’s capabilities, reputation, and experience. Now it’s back to work as new regulations are imminent that require more due diligence and verification of origin.”
Two York firms, Clive Owen LLP and Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP, played an integral role in facilitating the acquisition.
Michael Cantwell, Corporate Finance Partner at Clive Owen LLP, said: “This was a fascinating deal to work on, given the cutting-edge technology and the potential for significant growth in the sector. We are delighted to have facilitated this strategic deal which is a testament to the expertise of our York office and our ability to work in a global, cross-border market.”
Susie Mortonson, Corporate Partner at Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP, who led the legal team advising Agroisolab, added: “Having personally worked with the Agroisolab team for over a decade, it was a real delight to see this deal come to fruition for the company. It has been such a pleasure to work with Roger and his team over the years and I am really excited to see what the future holds for them, working in partnership with Source Certain.
“Working together with the team at Clive Owen LLP on the transaction ensured a smooth process and successful outcome for all parties involved.”
Green light granted to replace ageing leisure centre with state-of-the-art sports hub
Plans to transform an ageing leisure centre site into a new state-of-the-art sports and wellbeing hub have been approved by members of Leeds City Council’s north and east plans panel.
Fearnville Leisure Centre in Gipton – which dates back to the 1980s – will now be replaced with a much-needed new facility that will enhance the health and well-being of children, families, the local community and sports clubs in the area.
The new-look centre will be built on part of King George V Playing Fields, a 28-acre green space where the current leisure centre is housed, and will include high-quality amenities such as a 25-metre main pool, learner pool and water splash pads, a 120-station gym, all-weather pitch, spin studio, family changing village, soft play, party rooms and a café.
Work is expected to start on site early in the new year and take around 18 months to complete.
The existing centre will remain open for use while the new facility is built, before being demolished once construction is complete.
It is hoped the new site will encourage more take-up of physical activity among residents in Gipton and Harehills and Killingbeck and Seacroft – densely-populated wards which suffer from low life expectancy and high obesity rates – as well as benefiting wider east Leeds.
Councillor Salma Arif, executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This is an exciting step forward in the delivery of brand new facility that will provide a significant boost to the health and wellbeing of people in east Leeds.
“We hope the new centre will be a great source of pride for the local community, offering increased opportunities for physical activities as well as bringing social and mental health benefits to all who use it.
“Improving the health and wellbeing of our residents is one of the foundations of the council’s Best City Ambition and this new facility reaffirms our commitment to ensuring the people who are the poorest improve their health the fastest.
“We now look forward to progressing to the next phase of the plans and seeing this long-standing ambition become a reality.”
The plans also include tree-planting and soft landscaping to increase the site’s biodiversity, with inspects, birds and other wildlife giving people fresh opportunities to get in touch with nature.
Local demand for sports and leisure facilities is set to grow over the coming years, with thousands of new homes planned through the East Leeds Extension and related development sites.
Ownership of Elland Road transferred back to Leeds United
Elland Road Limited is now wholly owned by Leeds United Football Club Limited.
Elland Road Stadium has been the club’s home since 1919, but was sold in 2004 during a period of financial difficulty.
In 2017, Elland Road was purchased by Greenfield Investment Pte Ltd, an Aser Group company, which at the time was the parent company of Leeds United Football Club Limited.
Ownership of the stadium was then transferred, following the formation of a new company, to Elland Road Limited in December 2020.
In July 2023, 49ers Enterprises Global Football Group LLC assumed full control of Leeds United Football Club Limited and Elland Road Limited.
On 27th March 2024, the ownership of Elland Road Limited was transferred to Leeds United Football Club Limited. This transaction ensures Elland Road Stadium is now back in full control of the club, for the first time since 2004.
Angus Kinnear, CEO of Leeds United, said: “Whilst this may seem like only a subtle change in corporate structure, I know that our supporters will understand its broader significance in signalling our ownership’s intent that Leeds United and Elland Road should always be inextricably bound.”
Elland Road is also an Asset of Community Value (AoCV), which was formally approved and listed by Leeds City Council, following an application by the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust.
Planning application submitted for final phase of Aire Park Masterplan in Leeds
A planning application has been submitted for the final masterplan phase of Aire Park.
Transforming the former brownfield site into a vibrant new destination, the plans for the second phase feature 502 homes, including affordable housing, over 20,000 sq ft of flexible, ground floor space for leisure use, including cafes, restaurants and cultural activities, and a new 353-space multi storey car park.
The application also details the final hectare of Aire Park’s park, set to become the largest new city centre green park in the country. Designed by landscape architects Planit, the whole park will introduce 700 new trees, dedicated areas for residents as well as public exercise routes and flexible spaces for outdoor events, bringing a range of opportunities and benefits to the locals, neighbouring communities and visitors.
Situated south of Crown Point Road and bordered by Black Bull Street and the A61, phase two of the masterplan strategically connects the South Bank to the city centre and Leeds Dock, creating an accessible and safe route for pedestrians and cyclists whilst reducing traffic flows through the site.
Alongside the new buildings will be a refurbished and revitalised Crown Pub and Hotel, which was originally built in the late 19th Century and been closed in the late 20th Century. The venue, now owned by Vastint UK, was granted planning permission for a change of use and extension to create new commercial space in 2019, alongside the reinstatement of the pub.
Simon Schofield, Head of Development North at Vastint UK, commented on the second phase of the development: “We always envisioned and masterplanned Aire Park in its entirety.
“As work continues on the first phase of this landmark development and we prepare for the completion of 1 & 3 South Brook Street and opening of the first pieces of the public realm, Tetley Triangle, Tetley Green and Theatre Gardens, we’re pleased to be moving forward with our vision and plan for this second and final phase of Aire Park.
“The plans in their entirety aim to breathe new life into the Leeds South Bank and create new opportunities for people to live, work and enjoy this part of the city.
“Throughout the delivery of Aire Park, we are focusing on cultivating an accessible and welcoming environment, these plans show how we will use the new public park to not only promote active travel but create much needed new greenspace within this part of the city for everyone to enjoy whilst also providing a boost to biodiversity.”
Michael Westlake, director at Supervene Architects, added: “We have been working on this project since 2016 so submitting the final phase to the masterplan is a fantastic moment for us.
“Aire Park supports the Southbank vision for Leeds, providing new connections to improve the quality of access through the city centre and the communities to the south. Aire Park is in the process of transforming this former industrial site into an exciting new part of Leeds City Centre.
“The conceptual masterplan was designed as a balanced neighbourhood with an expansive city park at its centre that makes new connections across the site whilst embedding itself in the city’s heritage. Leeds Southbank strategy sought to introduce a 20% contribution to create a city centre park.
“The conceptual masterplan introduced a larger, more meaningful contribution creating a green corridor that with other sites connects all the way to the River Aire in the North and allows for future connections to the South of Aire Park.”
Independent advisors, Turley provided planning, strategic communications, EIA and townscape and landscape services. Director, Taylor Cherrett added: “We are proud to support Vastint UK in bringing their vision for Aire Park to life, reflecting Leeds’ strategic goals and community aspirations, alongside ensuring the development is truly a part of the fabric of the city.
“This development is set to transform Leeds’ South Bank, creating vibrant new spaces for living, working and leisure, whilst enhancing the city’s green infrastructure to deliver a thriving neighbourhood.”
Once completed Aire Park will include 1,400 modern homes and over 1 million sq ft of mixed-use office, retail, leisure and commercial space, anchored around an 8-acre public park with the refurbished Tetley at its heart.
