Supply Chain Launch Event to take place in preparation for delivery of major Huddersfield development

Tess Egginton
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Supply Chain Launch Event to take place in preparation for delivery of major Huddersfield development
BAM will host a Supply Chain Launch Event next week in preparation for delivery of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart. Taking place at Cathedral House on Wednesday 6 March (8:30am-12pm), BAM is looking to engage with any new and existing construction-related businesses within Kirklees who may be interested in working on the project. Construction firm BAM has been selected as the preferred principal contractor for Phase One of Our Cultural Heart – the Council’s major mixed-use development scheme that is set to transform the heart of Huddersfield town centre. Enabling works on site are set to get underway on 11 March, with the main construction work to follow in the summer. This first phase of the masterplan will concentrate on the major refurbishment of the historic former Queensgate Market building, which will be converted into a vibrant new food hall with space for around ten independent food stalls. A brand-new, community library will be incorporated within the existing east wing of the same building. Both the food hall and new library will directly feed out to a new public square, with the connecting space perfectly suited to outdoor cultural events and gatherings. BAM, which is also working on the new Daphne Steele Building at the University of Huddersfield, places a huge emphasis on social value within its projects and aims to create a positive economic impact in the locations in which it works. Paul Cleminson, Pre-construction Director at BAM, said: “We are delighted to be working on Our Cultural Heart. We have already fostered some strong relationships within the borough through our ongoing work at the University of Huddersfield, but we are looking to further expand our engagement with the construction supply chain here. “As a business, we are keen to support the local economy and community wherever we can. We are inviting businesses to come and meet us, tell us about their business and potentially unlock opportunities to work together on Our Cultural Heart.” Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, added: “We are incredibly excited that site work on Our Cultural Heart is soon to get underway. The scheme is going to deliver some fantastic long-term benefits for Huddersfield and the wider borough of Kirklees. “We understand construction in the town centre will mean a certain level of disruption for the public and our local businesses. However, alongside our project partners, we are working very closely with BAM to ensure these disruptions are minimised as much as possible, ensuring the town centre can continue to function efficiently. “The construction process itself will also deliver lots of benefits in the here and now. One of the deciding factors when we were selecting the construction firm for the scheme was BAM’s strong commitment to making a tangible impact here in Huddersfield. They share our vision and ambition to use this scheme as a vehicle for creating jobs, getting young people into work, and further supporting our local communities.” To register your attendance for the Supply Chain Launch Event on 6 March, please contact northern.supplychain@bam.com.

HullBID names Spencer Group as best place to work

Stuart Pearcey
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HullBID names Spencer Group as best place to work
Hull-based engineering company Spencer Group has been named the Best Place to Work at the 10th annual HullBID Awards. The award recognises its clear focus on diversity and inclusion, the apprenticeship opportunities it provides, training and development, staff wellbeing and social responsibility – all of which help make it a unique place to work. Spencer Group is committed to recruiting and developing talented employees to improve their own skills as individuals and the wider talent pool across the industries it serves. Young people join as apprentices or trainees and are able to work their way up through the company, progressing their careers in their chosen area of speciality. Spencer Group is a flexible employer and also has a strong focus on sustainability and protecting the environment. Marketing Manager Matt Mallory collected the award on the night. He said: “We’re delighted to have been recognised as the Best Place to Work at the HullBID Awards. “We pride ourselves on being an outstanding employer and appreciate that our people are the key to our success, which is why we inspire them to make a positive difference every day. This award is for everyone who works at Spencer Group.” HullBID Executive Director Kathryn Shillito said: “Once again we were blown away by the number of entries and the standard, as ever, has been highly competitive.” HullBID is a not-for-profit organisation that works to enhance Hull city centre and represents over 780 businesses. Awards were presented to ten winners in front of an audience of more than 320 at a gala celebration dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. Spencer Group picked up the coveted Best Place to Work Award, sponsored by St Stephen’s shopping centre.

Mayor plans to sell benefits of South Yorkshire at UK Real Estate summit

Stuart Pearcey
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Mayor plans to sell benefits of South Yorkshire at UK Real Estate summit
South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has announced a regional launch event ahead of the UK Real Estate, Investment and Infrastructure Forum taking place in Leeds in May this year. The Mayor will be attending this year alongside Councils from Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield with the aim of attracting inward investment, generating economic growth, and driving a more sustainable and inclusive culture within the property and construction industries across South Yorkshire. He plans a regional launch event on Wednesday 6th March at the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham from 8.30am, will showcase how the region will be represented at the event this year. Tariq Shah, Chief Exec of Doncaster-based Vigo Group and Co-Chair of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Business Advisory Board will give an overview of how businesses across South Yorkshire can support UKREiiF and the importance of taking a regional collaborative approach to inward investment. Oliver Coppard says: “My job is growth. In South Yorkshire we want to restore the pride, purpose and prosperity of our communities, and we can do that by showing the rest of the world why they should invest in us and what we have to offer. “We’ve made huge progress over the last couple of years. We’re home to the world’s first Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District and now the UK’s first investment Zone, as well as companies and people at the very forefront of materials science, propulsion, power, digital, and health-tech. “But there’s still much more to do. Right now, our economy is too small, and not everybody has the opportunity to stay near and go far. “I’m determined to tackle that challenge head on and give South Yorkshire the growth and recognition it deserves.” Sir Stephen Houghton, leader of Barnsley Council, said: “As ever, Barnsley will look to showcase what makes us stand out. As double winners of Council of The Year in 2023, we want to focus on our most relevant assets when it comes to this event. “We’re committed to our Health on the High Street initiative by repurposing buildings in the town centre. Following on from the success of the NHS Community Diagnostic Centre in The Glass Works; we’ve got ambitious plans to create a vibrant, high-quality and consistent experience across The Glass Works, Alhambra and wider town centre, and make healthcare more accessible for all. “Additionally, we’re focusing on unlocking growth through strategic investment. This revolves around maximizing the potential of The Seam – Barnsley’s Digital Campus, which falls into the South Yorkshire Investment Zone; as well as working with our key partners to leverage opportunity sites within the borough, including Junctions 36 and 37, as well as Goldthorpe.”

Specialist construction company makes three senior appointments

Tess Egginton
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Specialist construction company makes three senior appointments

Specialist construction company, Henley Group has started 2024 on the front foot as it makes three senior appointments to its growing team.

Jessica Cowling joins as Director of Business Development and Marketing, Robert Gettings as Project Director for the new HZS Stainless Steel division, whilst Tom Cardoe, formerly Head of Restoration, has been promoted to Managing Director of Restoration.

As Director of Business Development and Marketing, Jessica will be responsible for the growth of the Henley Group brand, focusing on identifying new opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and heading up internal strategies and marketing communications for the full group.

Jessica has worked across a range of sectors as a media and marketing expert and brings vast experience in business development. Commenting on her move, Jessica said: “I’m so excited to be bringing my expertise on brand positioning to Henley Group.

“It’s such an exciting time for the company with the newly launched HZS Stainless Steel division, and we have a number of new business announcements to make soon. Henley Group will continue to evolve and I’m looking forward to working with the team to achieve significant growth and I’m confident we will reach more magnificent milestones this year.”

Henley Group has recently expanded its offering for clients within the construction industry by launching a new division, HZS Stainless Steel, and has appointed Robert Gettings as Project Director to head up the new proposition. Robert will be leading the stainless-steel business which will include running an experienced team to deliver manufactured components to sites across the UK.

Robert brings a wealth of experience in the construction industry, including 14 years in the steel industry. As part of his previous role, Robert delivered stainless steel components for the Barking Riverside Project, which at the time, was one of the largest regeneration sites in Europe.

Commenting on his new role, Robert said: “I’m honoured to be heading up the new HZS division and I’m looking forward to transferring my knowledge and expertise into the new role. It’s fantastic to be a part of a business that is delivering some of the most exciting GRC and stone masonry projects in the UK and overseas, and by expanding its portfolio, we are now able to offer greater efficiencies and quality guarantees to customers.

“As part of the new division, we have acquired a factory in Ossett that will enable us to provide jobs to local tradesmen and teach them the high-quality skills and craftmanship that is vital in the construction industry. It’s a fantastic feeling working for a company like Henley Group who want to contribute to the local community and values training the next generation of construction workers.”

Tom Cardoe, Henley Group’s former Head of Restoration, has recently been promoted to Managing Director of Restoration. Under Tom’s leadership, Henley Restoration and Remedials grew to become a multi-million-pound division.

Tom has led a wide variety of regeneration projects since joining the business including the restoration of the 19th century Grade II listed textile mill, Rutland Mills, in Wakefield, which had been in a state of disrepair for two decades. The space is set to become the largest creative hub outside of Tileyard North and has been hailed as the Battersea Power Station of the North. Other notable projects include the historic Grosvenor Gardens in Westminster, Manchester Piccadilly Warehouse, and Manchester Town Hall.

Speaking on the promotion, Tom said: “I am thrilled to be acting as Managing Director of Restoration and hope to continue to develop and grow the Henley Group’s stature in this field, as well as building on our reputation as a distinguished heritage restoration company that is committed to preserving and revitalising historic and listed structures.

“With a deep respect for architectural heritage, we are driven to safeguard the legacy of historic and important buildings for the future and will continue to offer clients a professionally delivered experience from initial assessment right through to project completion.”

New arts director appointed at Sunny Bank Mills

Tess Egginton
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New arts director appointed at Sunny Bank Mills
Anna Turzynski has been appointed as the new arts director at Sunny Bank Mills in Farsley. Anna was a senior producer at LEEDS 2023: Year of Culture and responsible for some of the year’s most successful events, including The Awakening, The WOW Barn and The Gifting. Anna, who was born and educated in Sussex, before moving to Yorkshire in 2011 to study Theatre and Performance at Leeds University, succeeds Jane Kay. Anna said: “It is such an honour and a privilege to take over from Jane at Sunny Bank Mills. Jane’s are big shoes to fill. “The team have taken a cultural organisation and made it a key part of the community, creating a neighbourhood space which has the power to inspire, teach and learn from people who visit it. “Having worked in small organisations across Leeds for the majority of my career, I recognise the care and personal effort it takes to achieve such a feat. “My vision for the Arts Programme at Sunny Bank Mills is to build on the fantastic reputation it already has and to strengthen its offer as a destination for local, regional and national visitors. So, I will be planning exceptional exhibitions, events and opportunities that are rooted in the local area but have international relevance and significance. “I am blessed with a fabulous team to work with, who share my vision and commitment. I love Leeds so much and this wonderful new job provides me with the opportunity to make a real difference to the cultural life of the city. I am so very lucky.” William Gaunt, co-managing director of Sunny Bank Mills with his cousin John, and a passionate advocate for arts and culture, said: “We had a good many applications for the post but Anna was the outstanding candidate. “Her vision for arts and culture at Sunny Bank Mills aligned with ours, while her valuable experience with LEEDS 2023 and her positive and vibrant character made her the best person for this important post. Her appointment reinforces our commitment to arts and culture here. “We appointed Anna because she has a wide skills base. Whilst the Gallery is at the core of our arts offer, we cannot wait to see what exciting developments Anna will initiate to cement our reputation as one of Leeds’ leading arts venues. She will be building on the foundations already laid and taking the arts here to a whole new level. “Anna is hitting the ground running, with new exhibition Ones To Watch opening on March 2 alongside Open Studios and Printed Bound events over the same weekend. Meanwhile she is already planning a series of exciting exhibitions and events for later in the year. This is a new era for us and we are confident it is in the safest of hands.”

Project Manager Martin nominated for national award

Stuart Pearcey
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Project Manager Martin nominated for national award

Hull-based Sewell Construction project manager Martin Standley has been shortlisted for a national award in recognition of his positive contribution towards the construction community.

He has been chosen as one of the finalists in the Construction Manager of the Year category at this year’s Chartered Institute of Building’s CIOB Awards. He has been shortlisted following his work project managing the construction of Hull’s brand new Broadacre Primary School. Martin joined Sewell Construction in 1985, where he served a four-year bricklaying apprenticeship, before becoming a Project Manager in 1994 and working on Sewell Construction’s first £10m-plus project at Orchard Park Health Centre. Now, his projects have a combined value of around £100m and he has worked on several of Hull’s cutting-edge facilities, such as Thomas Ferens Academy and the refurbishment of the former Endeavour School. Broadacre Primary School is Hull’s first purpose-built base for young children with autism spectrum condition and aims to create an inclusive learning area that enables the pupils to be able to access mainstream education with the necessary additional support. Martin championed the involvement of the site staff in social value projects during the build, helping to raise awareness on inclusion and diversity within the Sewell team, and even doing further research on autism spectrum conditions in order to broaden his own understanding. It is because of his enthusiasm and passion for this project that he was nominated for the award. Martin will find out if he has been chosen as the winner at the glittering CIOB Awards ceremony in London in April.

LCF Law pledges to raise thousands for leading cancer charity

Tess Egginton
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LCF Law pledges to raise thousands for leading cancer charity

LCF Law has announced it will be fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, its nominated charity for 2024, with a packed calendar of activities to raise thousands of pounds for the charity.

The law firm employs 145 people across its four offices in Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate and Ilkley. Each year its team members are invited to give a presentation on a charity that they would like to nominate for the firm’s annual fundraising efforts, before all their colleagues vote which charity to back.

Last year LCF Law raised £10,000 for the Bone Cancer Trust and following a presentation from Sarah McCann from the firm’s conveyancing team, Yorkshire Cancer Research was chosen for 2024. One of the fundraising activities planned will see 13 members of the team taking part in the Leeds Half Marathon on 13th May.

Members of the firm are also taking part in a sponsored ‘Tour De LCF Law’ cycle challenge and have collaborated with PureGym to set up static bikes in the offices. They hope to cover the distance from Yorkshire to the Tour De France finishing point in Nice, which is 1,064 miles. Anyone cycling on the static bikes in the offices, as well as any miles completed outside of the office cycling, running, walking, or rowing will be included.

Sarah said: “Cancer is a horrible disease, and everyone will know someone close to them who has or is fighting a fight against it. I have a close friend who was shockingly diagnosed with breast cancer last year at the age of 39. She completed her chemotherapy treatment and has undergone surgery but devastatingly she’s now been told her cancer is incurable.

“I nominated Yorkshire Cancer Research because it does the most amazing job of funding research to help prevent cancer. The number of people surviving cancer has doubled in the last 40 years and research is continuing to change what it means to have cancer. Everything we raise this year will help leading researchers in Yorkshire, along with experts across the UK and throughout the world, to improve cancer survival.

“Our main fundraiser is the half marathon, which my friend will also be taking part in, which goes to show you what a determined person she is and that anything is possible, even with a life-limiting disease.

“The genuine interest and positive feedback from my colleagues at LCF Law is heartening, and throughout the year we’ll continually be raising money for the charity. LCF Law also match funds everything we raise, doubling our total, which is fabulous.”

Yorkshire Cancer Research has been funding research and saving lives since 1925. Today the charity is the biggest funder of cancer research study places in Yorkshire, bringing vital world leading research and expertise to the region. Money raised by LCF Law will be used to support research into new ways to prevent or manage cancer, help find cancer sooner when it’s often easier to treat, and also improve cancer treatment and pioneer new services.

To donate visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/lcf-law-1707736357325?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Flcf-law-1707736357325&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

Business Shows Group celebrate 25 years of Network Exhibitions

Tess Egginton
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Business Shows Group celebrate 25 years of Network Exhibitions
On Wednesday 20th March, the Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo  will take place at The Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham, Lincoln, LN6 9NH. The event focuses on all things property, construction, investment and related services, bringing together industry professionals to discuss and deliver business opportunities. Sponsors include Team Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce and Invest East Midlands, all looking to deliver growth and encourage investment within the region. The event is free to attend. The exhibition opens at 9am, followed by Nespresso coffee and celebration cake at 11am-11:30am where we will be joined by Lee Marshall, Managing Director of Viridis for an informative update on Net Zero. 11:30am – 12:15pm is a Speed Network session courtesy of Lincoln Business Club who are celebrating 20 years. The exhibition will end at 1pm. Don’t dash off though as there is another great networking opportunity. Join Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce at their March Construction & Property Network.  All networking opportunities are delivered free of charge when pre-registered. Register online at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/lincoln/  Tina King, the Event Organiser, expressed that after 25 years, they have successfully established a well-targeted event catering to professionals in the Property, Construction, Professional Services, Business, Finance, and Investment sectors. She confirmed the primary objective is to provide an environment where clients and delegates can connect with new clients, cultivate relationships, and expand business opportunities in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The event aims to bring together industry experts, facilitate networking, and provide a platform for collaboration and growth. On 11th November 2024 we have the big East Midlands Expo, held at the same venue for 25 years, EMCC, Nottingham.Back in 1999, Martin Freeman saw a gap in the market that no one else had, a starting point to bring together like-minded people from within Property, Construction, B2B, Finance & Investment all under one roof for one amazing day. The event has continued to grow and evolve. Many exhibitors have been at the event every year since it started. Martin acknowledges: “Throughout the years, we have seen many changes within the industry, many strong and positive, but also some challenging and difficult times. “However, the property and construction industry remains robust and unwavering, supported by a dedicated and well-informed workforce that diligently seeks solutions in every circumstance. Tina & I thank each and every one of you for your support over the years.” The events attract a wide variety of exhibitors and attendees including professional intermediaries, environmental consultants, engineering consultants, contractors, financiers and brokers, estate and property agents, landowners, property developers, investors, construction companies, interior design & fit out, marketing, B2B & PR agencies. Testimony to the success of the events and in their effectiveness of matching buyers and suppliers shows in the planning and delivery of present and forthcoming projects and in the strength of the business relationships that develop post event. Pre-register for free registration at https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/register/  Contact tina@businessshowsgroup.co.uk for further information on exhibiting.  20th March 2024 – Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo  11th November 2024 – East Midlands Expo with Property & Business Investment Show Nottingham 

Yorkshire business confidence dips in February

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire business confidence dips in February

Business confidence in Yorkshire and the Humber fell 13 points during February to 31%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Companies in Yorkshire and the Humber reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down 17 points to 37%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down nine points to 25%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 31% (vs. 44% in January).

However, a net balance of 39% of businesses in the region expected to increase staff levels over the next year, up 10 points on last month.

Yorkshire and the Humber businesses identified their top target areas for growth in the next six months as investing in their team (43%), introducing new technology (31%), and investing in environmental sustainability measures (27%).

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 dipped two points in February to 42%, driven by softening confidence from firms in both their own trading prospects (49% vs. 51% in January) and the wider economy (34% vs. 37% in January).

Companies’ hiring intentions increased to the highest level since May 2022, with 36% of firms intending to increase staff levels over the next 12 months, up three points on the month before.

Sector Insights

There was a mixed picture for sectors this month. Confidence fell in manufacturing (nine points to 40%) and construction (seven points to 38%) respectively, although results remain higher than the same time last year. In contrast, the dominant services sector was unchanged compared to January at 45%, exceeding all months of 2023 except for November. Retail confidence was broadly steady, dipping one point to 41%.

Steve Harris, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “While business confidence fell slightly in February, this data paints a clear picture of a region looking ahead with optimism.

“It’s particularly good to see a growing number of businesses planning to hire. This shows firms are gearing up for future growth or are looking to staff newly secured contracts, and it’s a move that will benefit local communities and the regional economy, not just firms themselves.

“Meanwhile, it’s encouraging to see sustainability as a top business focus area. This aligns with Yorkshire and the Humber’s reputation as a national powerhouse for the UK’s green economy – reflected in the announcement of planning permission for a major new carbon capture project in East Yorkshire last week that promises the creation of thousands more jobs for the county.”

Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “This month’s data still reflects a positive mood among businesses despite a marginal fall in overall confidence. Firms appear to be upbeat about their prospects and the economy, supporting their positive staffing expectations.

“Looking at the sectors, there is a mixed picture. There was a slight fall in confidence reported in the manufacturing and construction sectors, while retail and services stood their ground – remaining unchanged compared to January’s figures. But despite the manufacturing and construction fall, businesses are still showing high levels of confidence.

“The split across the regions also provides reason to view the dip in confidence at the broader UK level cautiously. Six regions have reported an increase in confidence while the other six have reported a decrease. So, scratching the surface, we see a story that continues to show a more positive outlook for the year ahead.”

PPE firm secures 16,000 sq ft unit in Doncaster

Tess Egginton
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PPE firm secures 16,000 sq ft unit in Doncaster
Protective clothing maker Skanwear has committed to a unit at Priority Space’s Jubilee Park in a relocation from Kirk Sandall. Agreed by Commercial Property Partners on behalf of the landlord, the 16,042 sq ft unit has been secured on a 10-year lease for the growing business, which operates globally. Jubilee Park is a speculative development close to Doncaster Sheffield Airport with the M18 1.5m away. Priority Space director, Lee Buchanan, said: “We’re delighted to work with our letting agents CPP and Knight Frank and agree terms with Skanwear, one of the leading electrical PPE providers in the UK. “We’re also confident that we will be making further announcements in the very near future as interest regarding the other available units on Jubilee Park continues to come in.” Skanwear Chief Executive Richard Long said: “This is a high spec quality unit that will allow us to grow with confidence with the right facilities and space to expand. It will also provide an excellent base for our staff and its central location is ideal for both clients and supply partners to reach.” The Skanwear unit offers warehousing provision along with reception area, open plan offices and staff facilities. Outside, Skanwear will benefit from 23 car park spaces including electric charging points and a concrete service yard. The unit achieved an A EPC Rating. CPP partner Ed Norris added: “We think this is a great deal for both parties and, as a speculative development, it shows the continued confidence in the commercial property sector across South Yorkshire with premium ‘A’ rated spaces still coming to market.”
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