Ikea staff renovate Sheffield space in ‘Safe Place To Sleep’ programme
IKEA workers have used company products to renovate a previously under-used council-owned space in Sheffield as part of its commitment to the South Yorkshire Beds for Babies: Safe Place to Sleep Programme.
The programme has been designed to tackle inequality in early childhood, with Gleadless Valley one of four pilot locations within South Yorkshire.
As part of the programme, IKEA is working alongside Sheffield Council, Sheffield Hallam University, Baby Basics UK, and Shelter to tackle child poverty levels, reduce pressure on public services, improve childhood development, and reduce infant mortality.
Having sought engagement with residents of Callow Place, 19 coworkers from IKEA Sheffield created a bright and inviting space for children to play, and their families to seek necessary support.
The retailer is also providing additional funding to frontline services making use of the centre, such as Shelter, so people can access resources and the support they need for a better life at home. The funding will enable provision of legal advice and drop-in clinics, such as housing rights awareness sessions and skills for employment.
Kiera Guinnane, Community Project Manager at IKEA Sheffield said: “IKEA’s vision is to create a better everyday life for the many people. Better homes are integral to this vision, but we know many people in our communities can’t achieve a better home without support.
“Partnering with programmes like the South Yorkshire Beds for Babies: Safe Place to Sleep Programme allows us to look after our neighbours whilst helping to tackle child poverty in South Yorkshire and beyond. The Sheffield project is just one of the steps we are taking to help address these concerns across the UK.”
The Sheffield project will now provide a blueprint for IKEA’s work with the Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood – expanding its contribution of support, design expertise and products for babies and young children to six new locations across the UK to help families with young children experiencing the greatest disadvantage.
Cllr Dawn Dale, Chair of the Education, Children’s and Families Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We always say that as a Council we are passionate about making Sheffield a city of hope and aspiration, where everyone can share in its success.
“In all we do we want children and young people, and their family members too, to feel loved, accepted and safe. Having safe spaces like this available to go and nurture those feelings and play and learn together is vital for everyone’s positive development.
“It’s great to see partners come together like this to create such a welcome addition to the community.”
Keltbray starts work on Phase 2 of Sheffield’s Castlegate project
Construction company Keltbray has started work on the second phase of development at Sheffield’s Castlegate site.
The company’s operations director Tim Barber said: “Keltbray said: “Keltbray is delighted to be awarded this second phase of work at Castlegate. During the first phase, we were able to learn more about the historic significance of this part of the city. We’re now looking forward to being able to provide recreational facilities, and investment opportunities for people living and working in Sheffield.”
The River Sheaf, which gives the city it’s name, will also be opened up as part of the phase 2 work, making it visible in the city centre for the first time since Victorian times.
Phase two work started in July 2024 with the whole project expected to be completed in early 2026.
Following extensive archaeological research at the former Castle Market site, including unearthing evidence of former steel works dating back to the 19th century and the remains of Sheffield Castle itself, the project now moves to redeveloping it into the park and events space.
During phase one of the project, Sheffield City Council has worked alongside construction company Keltbray with that partnership continuing with the engineering specialists continuing the transformation of the site for phase 2.
Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “This is a hugely exciting project which has already grabbed the attention of thousands of people not only in Sheffield but right across the country. Unearthing the remains of the city’s history has been fascinating but the work to transform the area from an archaeological site into the finished park really starts now.”
Throughout the process, Wessex Archaeology, who have been uncovering the remains of the castle during phase one, will remain on site to ensure those remains are preserved and ready to go on public display once the project has been completed.
Once complete, the Castlegate site will be transformed into a public park area with remains of the 12th century Sheffield Castle on display for the first time since it was demolished in the late 1600s. A 500 people capacity events space will also be created on the site of a former 17th century bowling green, with heritage interpretation boards and public art giving further nods to the site’s historic past.
Study probing man-made fuel for steelmaking in the running for sustainability award
A University of Lincoln research study supported by British Steel and Lapwing Energy has been shortlisted in the Research with Impact category at the forthcoming Green Gown Awards.
The research is investigating whether a man-made charcoal or ‘biochar’ might be suitable as a coal replacement. British Steel is helping to steer the study and give a technical view on requirements to determine if biochar could replace injection coal and act as a future clean carbon source for electric arc furnace steel production.
Head of Research and Development Andy Trowsdale said: “Carbon is an essential element for steelmaking processes, both now and in our EAF future. The work, integrating land repurposing and sustainable crop production, has the potential to provide a circular supply chain for clean carbon sources with significant net CO₂ benefits within steelmaking and beyond.
“This is the second time the project, led by Amir Badiee, Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Energy, has been shortlisted at the Green Gown awards, reflecting the quality of the study and its sustainability credentials.”
Judges have selected 133 finalists from 84 institutions who will now be invited to submit their stage 2 applications ready for the final judging in October. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony taking place on 13 November at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh.
The awards, now in their twentieth year, recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges across the UK and Ireland.Newark businesses highlight urgent need for action on A46 town bypass
A new report from Midlands Connect highlights the significance of upgrading the A46 Newark bypass for local businesses and the economy.
Vodaphone, which has a significant regional presence in the town, says it could consider reducing its presence if employees aren’t able to get to work easily to provide customer service. The company’s National Marketing Lead Daniel Copper said: “If the office space is underutilised due to people avoiding coming in as the traffic is so bad, Vodafone is less likely to continue requiring that office.”
Graham Wright, Environment Manager at British Sugar, which processes all the sugar beet grown in the UK, and supplies 60% of the UK market, added: “The road network here is almost like a gateway, from the A46 you can access so much of the rest of the country that in investing in this stretch of road you would benefit not only Newark but wider UK connectivity.”
Simon Eccleston, Chief Executive at Newark Showground, said: “Queues can be miles long and so if you’re trying to attend an event here at the showground, clearly that can mean that you’re sometimes delayed by two hours. Newark Rugby Club Bonfire Night started over an hour late because we just simply couldn’t get people into the showground on time.
“Improving the A46 would be the best thing possible for business and the best thing possible for Newark as well. The sooner the works can start, the better.”
In November 2023, Midlands Connect released a report proposing upgrades and finishing the Newark bypass. The £400 – £500 million scheme was dubbed as ‘imperative’ by Midlands Connect Chairman Sir John Peace.
The plans are now in the pre-examination stage with the Planning Inspectorate and a full examination will begin later this year before a recommendation is made to the Secretary of State for Transport who will make a final decision.
The scheme will:
- Improve traffic signals at Farndon roundabout to achieve smoother traffic flows in peak hours.
- Provide a new dual-carriageway bridge over the A1.
- Enlarge and partially signal Winthorpe roundabout to reduce congestion and improve journey reliability.
- Create a new grade separated junction at the Cattle Market roundabout.
Work gets under way to transform Hull’s Europa House
Work is under way on transforming Hull city centre’s Europa House office into Monocle.
Allenby Commercial says that Monocle will deliver a bright new facility for the city and its people and breathe new life into a 50-year-old property which has stood as a landmark since the 1970s.
Georgia Allenby, Design and Marketing Director at Allenby Commercial, said: “Monocle is all about creating a workplace that is more than just your work space. The building is being redeveloped to bring a new experience and environment to Hull.
“The ground floor will be transformed into a high-end coffeehouse that will also be open to the public, alongside a welcoming business lounge with co-working spaces, break-out areas, a gym, meeting rooms and city garden.”
At Monocle, the first move in a transformation with the potential to create 700 jobs will involve building two new lifts and modern central staircase.
At the same time work will progress on providing managed office and studio space on the first floor and the remaining four floors will then be shaped to attract larger operators. Completion is due for late 2025, with PPH Commercial and CBRE in Leeds appointed as joint agents.
Europa House is instantly recognisable as the distinctive, gold-mirrored office block which has stood next to Hull Paragon Station at the corner of Anlaby Road and Ferensway since 1975.
Georgia added: “We see this as the future of office space. It’s old hat to create a sterile office building for people to sit in. People want and need more from their place of work. We’ve incorporated access to exercise with gym facilities and classes, and the good design and flow throughout the building will create an uplifting inspiring vibe.
“We have already got interest in the building, notably from professional firms and creative businesses who see Monocle as an opportunity to elevate their brand, promote staff wellbeing and improve productivity by moving into great space.”
Freeths expands Yorkshire construction practice with strategic senior hire
Law firm Freeths has appointed Construction and Engineering Partner Matt Collingwood-Cooper, expanding the firm’s sector offering across Yorkshire. He joins from Addleshaw Goddard.
Matt brings over 20 years’ experience in risk management and dispute resolution work. He is well regarded for his practical and tenacious approach; advising local, national and international clients, including household names, on construction related disputes.
He has a particular interest in the utility sectors (water and energy), framework disputes, and in the PFI sector, where he has acted on a number of reported cases (including recently in the Court of Appeal).
In his new role, Matt will work closely with National Head of Construction and Engineering Chris Holwell and Leeds-based Construction and Engineering Partner Rachael Yates to further extend Freeths’ presence in the region during a crucial time of economic change under the new government.
Chris said: “Matt’s arrival will strengthen the firm’s already strong construction and engineering sector offering. I’m confident that he will hit the ground running, providing an invaluable addition for our clients.”
Matt added: “It’s always exciting to start a new role, but I am especially proud to be joining such a fast-growing, nationally recognised firm as Freeths. The construction and engineering arm at the firm is absolutely first rate. I’m looking forward to delivering the full Freeths service for both new and existing clients.”
York accountancy firm secures six-figure loan to support growth
A York accountancy firm has secured a six-figure loan from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia Debt as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), to support its continued growth following its acquisition of another local practice.
The funding for Change Accountants is the first deal in York by the £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. The Fulford-based firm has recently doubled in size with the acquisition of Sunley & Co in Acomb.
The two practices – which between them employ 12 staff and serve around 800 clients – will continue to operate as separate brands under the direction of Change Accountants’ founder Stacey McVeighty. The funding will enable her to strengthen the management team and invest in technology and training to continue the growth of the business.
A qualified accountant with over 25 years’ experience, Stacey established the practice in 2014. Change Accountants has been paperless from the start, and prides itself on keeping up to date with the latest technology and on being a fair employer, offering staff benefits such as unlimited holidays.
In addition to the standard services such as accounts, tax, VAT and payroll, it produces specialist data to enable clients to create reports such as carbon calculations to comply with the requirements of tender frameworks.
Stacey McVeighty said: “The acquisition of Sunley & Co will boost our growth through the addition of an experienced team and enable us to benefit from economies of scale. The funding will allow us to build on that by investing in new technologies and skills to ensure we stay at the forefront of developments in the changing accountancy landscape.”
Andy Clough of Mercia added: “Stacey has built up a successful practice that has been growing steadily and has now doubled in size following the recent acquisition. The loan will enable her to further develop the expertise and services the business can offer as Change Accountants begins a fresh chapter in its growth story.”
City council earns place amongst nation’s top apprenticeship employers
For the first time Leeds City Council has earned a place as the best local authority on the Department for Education’s index of the country’s best employers for providing apprenticeship opportunities.
More than 632 council employees are currently on apprenticeships from level 2 to level 7. In the 12 months to 31 March 2024, 316 started apprenticeships on pathways ranging from social care, child care, housing, digital and project management to building trades, civil engineering and more.
Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for resources, said: “This is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds in Leeds.
“Apprenticeships are a vital way of developing the skills and talents of our workforce, as well as supporting the local economy and combatting the skills shortages in some sectors. We are proud of our apprentices and the valuable contribution they make to our council and our city.”
Leeds City Council is a living wage employer. All employees, including apprentices of any age, are paid a salary that matches or exceeds the Living Wage Foundation minimum rate.
The DfE’s top 100 apprenticeship employers list was compiled by analysing data from apprenticeship employers across different industries and employment sectors. Over 1,000 employers entered by submitting data from the 12 months to 31 March 2024 on their apprenticeship starts, successful apprenticeship completions and the diversity of their apprentice cohort.
Port of Hull welcomes new vessel under charter to TTS Shipping
A new link to the Baltic ports has been created with the arrive in Hull of a load of timber from Finland aboard the Humber Sprinter, under charter to TTS (Shipping) Ltd.
For her return to the Baltic, the vessel’s cargo was to be load static caravans.
TTS operates long established timber lines from the Baltic Sea into the ports of Goole, Hull and Immingham. The Humber Sprinter, the sister ship to Humber Runner, will call at the Humber ports at least twice a month with timber from The Baltic and Scandinavia.
Juliet Keep, MD of TTS Shipping, said: “We now have another vessel within our own fleet which can all call in the three ABP Humber ports where we are tenants. This gives us much more flexibility and reliability for the services we offer our customers.
Peter Waud, MD of Global Shipping Services Ltd, added: “This is fantastic news, and gives great flexibility in continuing to service the needs of clients into The Ports of Hull, Goole and Immingham where we operate as licenced stevedores.”
The Humber Runner was acquired three years ago to assist TTS in maintaining the schedule of their many services to the Humber Ports.
Global Shipping Services will act as stevedores in the Ports of Hull, Goole and Immingham.
The Navalis Group and TTS Shipping have traded together successfully for more than 20 years before the acquisition in December 2021. Both companies specialise in the forest product trade in the North and Baltic Sea.
New roles for three at Hull accounting firm
Hull-based 360 Chartered Accountants has made a series of appointments across its admin team.
Having been instrumental in improving systems and processes across the firm, Sarah Dalton has been promoted to office manager from administrative assistant. Sarah joined 360 more than three years ago with extensive experience in back-office processes in the financial services industry. Since then, she has implemented a brand new IT system, hailed as one of the best change management projects ever undertaken at 360, introducing a new client onboarding system, anti-money laundering system and invoice system.
Sam Gibson joined 360 eight years ago as an administrative assistant. He has now moved across to the accounting team as accounts and administrative support.
Meanwhile, Ellis Eastburn has become 360’s latest business administration apprentice. He will be looking after the office admin and will be the first point of call for clients.
Andy Steele, Founder of 360, which also haas offices in York and Wakefield, said:
“We really couldn’t do without our fantastic admin team to ensure everything runs smoothly not only within the firm, but also for our clients. Sarah’s overhaul of systems at 360 has been absolutely brilliant. She is so professional, calm and organised.
“As office manager she will be taking on extra responsibilities, so welcoming Ellis to our successful apprenticeship programme was a no brainer. He will be working alongside the rest of our admin team so that Sarah can focus on her officer manager role. Finally, Sam has shown a real interest and has been working more and more with the accounts team, so this means he will now provide dedicated admin support for them.”
“We believe in rewarding our team for hard work and excellence. Anything is possible when you come to work at 360 and we look for opportunities to further everyone’s career.”
