Hull to consider next phase of green energy projects
Hull City Council’s cabinet will consider whether to progress to the next phase of two of its green energy projects.
The cabinet will hear plans on both Hull District Heat Network (HDHN) and the decarbonisation of corporate buildings.
Plans for HDHN include progressing with procurement activity associated with the delivery of Phase 1 of the network, which includes connections to Great Thornton Street and Cambridge Street flats as well as internal upgrades to heating systems.
Permission will also be sought to progress the feasibility of Phase 2 of the network, focusing on additional social housing sites to the south of Anlaby Road, at Albert Avenue Pools and any other viable connections on route.
Cabinet will also consider the delivery of decarbonisation initiatives to the Treasury building, Streetlife Museum and Western Library and whether to procure a number of these activities through a Strategic Partnering Agreement with the Clear Futures Framework.
If approved, procurement to complete the decarbonisation measures will progress during 2024, with a further report submitted to cabinet later this year to consider whether to progress with the construction activity.
This is with a view to commencing on site in early 2025.
These projects support to the council’s commitment to decarbonisation and achieving carbon neutrality and net zero.
Leeds Bradford Airport enters new era of security scanners
Passenger experience at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) this summer is transforming with the deployment of new, cutting-edge security scanners.
The introduction of the latest Next Generation Screening technology enables passengers to leave both liquids and large electronic items, such as laptops, iPads and tablet devices, in their bags whilst passing through security. As per latest DFT guidance, all liquids are required to be in containers not exceeding 100ml but an unlimited number of these containers can be taken.
These advanced systems enable a smoother and more efficient security process for all passengers, significantly reducing hassle and reducing queues for departing travellers.
The next generation security technology is now in full operation at Leeds Bradford Airport. LBA is one of the first airports in the UK that has deployed the very latest technology for the entire operation which improves security staff effectiveness, detects prohibited items with greater accuracy and enhances passenger safety.
With all four security lanes now fully operational, Leeds Bradford Airport passengers will experience a smoother, faster, and more convenient journey through security.
Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “As Yorkshire’s international gateway, we are committed to ensuring passenger safety, whilst also providing a seamless, quick and efficient experience for those travelling through the airport. The introduction of the C3 scanners will enable our security staff to operate with greater accuracy, prioritising passenger safety while minimising unnecessary delays .”
CPP Group disposes of legacy operations in Italy
CPP Group, a Leeds-based provider of real-time, digitally delivered assistance products to insurance and financial services’ clients, has disposed of its legacy operations in Italy through the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary, CPP Italia Srl (CPP Italy) to IGS EMEA SL for a cash consideration of €0.5 million.
CPP Italy is said to be non-core to the Group following the announcement of a revised strategy to withdraw from its legacy operations and to transform the Group to a digitally focused parametric business led by Blink Parametric and supported by CPP India and CPP Turkey.
For the 2023 Financial Year, CPP Italy contributed EBITDA of £0.2 million to the Group’s overall EBITDA of £4.8 million and recorded a profit before tax of £0.1 million. As at 31 December 2023, CPP Italy had net assets of £0.1 million.
The disposal marks the final step in the Group’s withdrawal plans from its legacy operations, with Spain and Portugal closed, Italy and Mexico sold, and the UK in active run-off.
Simon Pyper, Group CEO, said: “The disposal of CPP Italy is consistent with our stated strategy and is another positive step as we simplify the Group and transform to a digitally led parametric business.”
Hudson Contract sees increase in ‘more aggressive tactics’ as HMRC questions construction firms
HMRC is said to be stepping up compliance checks on the construction industry – using its powers to investigate payments for off-payroll labour and gross payments to net paid subcontractors for plant and materials.
Bridlington-based Hudson Contract says it has seen a noticeable increase in HMRC activity and the deployment of what it cals ‘more aggressive tactics’ in recent months, with twelve companies seeking its support in the last six weeks alone.
The company’s Compliance Director Dan Davies said: “The firms concerned are groundworks, joinery, scaffolding and surfacing contractors located across England with turnovers ranging from £2m to £18m.
“HMRC has written to the companies with demands for information including schedule of payments to ‘all workers on a self-employed or off-payroll basis, a description of work undertaken by each worker, sample contracts and company handbooks, information used to determine employment status, details and costs of all materials supplied, evidence of third-party plant hire costs, and supply chain compliance
“In some of the correspondence, HMRC also enclosed an in-depth questionnaire, probing employment status and the categories of off-payroll workers engaged directly, through limited companies or via agencies, umbrella companies and managed service companies.”
Mr Davies said company directors often found the level of questioning to be invasive, ambiguous and a cause for concern, even when their books were in order.HE said: “The costs of getting it wrong can be significant. In one recent case involving a roofing company that engaged between 15 and 20 labour-only sub-contractors, HMRC hit the firm with a statutory income tax notice for more than £330,000 for just one financial year, another was handed a VAT assessment totalling £900,000 because of a tax loss in his supply chain.
“These cases show that HMRC is stepping up the enforcement of off-payroll working rules known as IR35, VAT compliance and general CIS and PAYE compliance issues such as paying net paid subbies gross amounts for plant and materials.”
Hospitality workers on ‘precarious’ contracts found to be vulnerable to sexual harassment
Hospitality workers on precarious contracts are most likely to experience workplace sexual harassment, according to a new report.
The report reveals how a combination of precarious contracts, sexualisation of service work and the workforce’s demographics have contributed to making hospitality workers more vulnerable to workplace sexual harassment.
Dr Bob Jeffrey, lead author of the research from Sheffield Hallam University, said: “We’ve all seen the headlines over the last year about issues of sexual harassment in the fast-food industry. Our research helps to explain why it’s such a problem, not just in fast-food, but across the hospitality sector.
“Part of the reason for this is the hospitality industry having the largest percentage of zero-hour contracts, which makes it too easy for perpetrators in positions of authority to cut the hours of those who try and speak out.”
Researchers interviewed hospitality workers from South Yorkshire, as part of a wider study on low paid and precarious work. Sexual harassment and unwanted sexual attention were mentioned by a significant number of interviewees.
The report highlights how the hospitality workforce is disproportionately young, female, from a minoritised background, on zero hours contracts and on the lowest rates of pay.
All of which make them more vulnerable to sexual harm, with workers on precarious contracts 60 per cent more likely to report being a victim of sexual harassment, and women generally reporting sexual harassment rates twice as high as men.
Findings showed that several of the women interviewed were harassed by their manager or supervisor, who used their position of authority and responsibility for their working patterns to harass them and control their working lives.
Free online business support sessions offered to Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland companies
A series of free online support sessions for businesses in Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland is now under way.
PAB Sema4 is running the funded workshops, which are designed to equip local businesses in these areas of Lincolnshire with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate and thrive in a competitive market.
By participating, they will gain valuable insights into effective communication, cultural awareness, and community engagement, all of which are essential for business growth and development.
The workshops are part of a broader initiative to boost economic growth and community development in the region, funded by the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (SELCP) People & Skills Programme via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
The following Global Gateway Training workshops have now been arranged and are being delivered online for ease of access:
- Tuesday 18th June at 10am – Workplace Communication Training, which aims to foster an inclusive and effective communication environment, enhancing team collaboration and productivity in a culturally diverse workplace.
- Wednesday 26th June at 10am – Website and Content Localisation, training which will provide strategies to effectively adapt digital content for international audiences, ensuring messages are culturally relevant and accurate, which enhances global brand appeal and market penetration.
- Thursday 27th June at 10am – Sales Communication Training, focusing on learning how to effectively communicate across diverse cultural backgrounds, increasing the potential for successful market expansion and improved client relationships in new geographical markets.
- Tuesday 2nd July at 10am – Build Real Relationships in your Community and learn how to effectively engage with members of your community.
- Thursday 4th July at 10am – Multicultural Marketing for Community Engagement, which concentrates on learning to connect authentically with diverse communities through targeted marketing strategies that reflect cultural sensitivities and preferences.
Household name in process industry expands into Leeds
Industrial landlord Towngate PLC has welcomed household name in the process industry, Lokring UK, to its growing client portfolio, with the signing of a five-year tenancy contract for 3,900 sq ft Unit C at Copley Hill Trading Estate in Leeds.
Founded over thirty years ago and operating in 30 countries worldwide, the Ohio-headquartered company offers an extensive range of design-patented weld equivalent pipe and tube fittings, including couplings, flanges, elbows, adapters.
At its new premises, Lokring will benefit from a spacious warehouse unit with modern ancillary offices, access via a single ground level door, yard and loading area, along with parking.
Speaking on the move, Lokring’s office manager, Zak O’Neill said: “This strategic move to Towngate’s Copley Hill site has come at the perfect time for us as a business — ensuring continuity and stability for Lokring UK and allowing us to continue delivering high-quality products and services to our valued customers. We look forward to further growth and success in our new location.”
Lokring UK joins fellow occupants Crown Decorating Centre, Howdens, Carpetright, Lincs Electrical Wholesalers Ltd (LEW), BAPP Industrial Suppliers Limited, Wolseley UK, The BSS Group Ltd, and Nicholls & Clarke Ltd.
Towngate’s property manager Tom Lamb also commented on the new let: “We are pleased to welcome Lokring UK to the Copley Hill Trading Estate and are confident that the location — offering close proximity to the motorway network and arterial routes — will be the perfect fit for the team.”
Leeds-based property consultants, GV&Co, advised Towngate alongside joint agents Carter Towler.
Senior surveyor Jonathan Jacob added: “We are delighted to have completed this letting on behalf of Towngate. Copley Hill Trading Estate is widely regarded as South Leeds’ premier trade counter estate, and we are pleased to welcome Lokring to the impressive list of national occupiers there.”
Airfield runway specialist invests £1m in grooving capabilities
Lincolnshire-headquartered global airfield and runway specialist Jointline has made its largest investment since the establishment of the 37-year-old business, to enhance its runway grooving capabilities.
The £1m of new plant and machinery will help drive sustained growth for the privately-owned company, which currently has 120 employees.
Gary Massey, Managing Director of Jointline, said: “The current demand for runway refurbishment and development is the highest it’s been for the past decade. In order for us to fulfil the demand from existing domestic customers – while expanding our overseas operations – we have deployed company funds to purchase multiple new sets of specialist plant and machinery.
“We have also invested in the training and development of long-serving employees and increased our skilled workforce by 20% to 120 employees. This is setting us apart from our competitors, while keeping the team and our customers safe as we carry out grooving assignments on live airfields. I am proud to be leading a business that is set up for the future and able to continue to grow sustainably and profitably.”
Jointline’s investment in the expansion of its grooving division includes the purchase of five ride-on pavement groovers, a bespoke 30-ft articulated trailer and two 44-tonne DAF XF Super Space tractor units. The firm has also invested in the remanufacture of its 30,000-litre capacity water tanker, which has additional safety features, Chapter 8 requirements, and full 360-camera coverage.
Trio of firms relocate to Graphical House in Leeds
Estate agents Zenko Properties, digital marketing agency Perfect Storm and recruitment, training and coaching services provider Back2Work have all relocated to Graphical House, a creative workspace in the heart of Leeds.
The property was brought to market at the beginning of the year by strategic property advisors Fox Lloyd Jones and Carter Towler and spans over 7,000 sq ft in total, offering offices over four floors.
Located in The Calls district of Leeds, the building has undergone a significant refurbishment to offer some of the city’s best creative space. Graphical House is now largely known for its distinctive contemporary artwork on the building’s exterior – a project completed by Bristol-based artist Mr Penfold as part of the In Good Company project, commissioned by King & Co.
Zenko Properties, founded in 2015 by managing director Tobias Duczenko, has expanded its presence with a new branch on the ground floor of Graphical House. The 1,215 sq ft space, secured on a 6-year lease, marks the company’s second Yorkshire location adding to its branch in Silsden.
The second floor is occupied by digital marketing agency, Perfect Storm. The agency recently announced a record £3m turnover for the 2023/24 financial year and has acquired one of the larger suites at 2,100 sq ft on a 5 year lease.
Back2Work now occupy 1,720 sq ft at third level, on a 3 year lease. With its focus on workforce development and skills training, Back2Work plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy and community.
Nick Salkeld, director at Fox Lloyd Jones, said: “Graphical House is an iconic landmark in the centre of Leeds and a unique creative environment, with the high levels of interest it has received paying testament to its vast appeal.
“The businesses that now make it their home are great examples of the diverse and innovative enterprises we aimed to attract. We’re just one suite away from filling the building with an impressive lineup of established businesses, and it’s not hard to see why it is so popular.”
Clem McDowell, director at Carter Towler, said: “Its location is ideal for travel with rail, bus and motorway links close by and the presence of all three businesses within Graphical House creating a dynamic and collaborative environment that promotes growth and innovation.
“Being situated in the heart of The Calls district, it is also surrounded by an abundance of local amenities which just adds to the many reasons so many businesses are looking to call this area of Leeds their home.”
Professional services firm donates office furniture to St Andrew’s Hospice
Colleagues from Aon’s Hull office have donated used office furniture to St Andrew’s Hospice – ensuring the items did not instead go to landfill.
After relocating its 50-strong Humber team to a new, fully serviced office at Redhill Court in Hull, global professional services firm Aon has donated the office furniture to the charity, which provides hospice care to adults in North East Lincolnshire and children across Lincolnshire, Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire.
By giving the furniture a second life at St Andrew’s Hospice and furnishing the charity’s new building in Grimsby, Aon has ensured that the items have not ended up in landfill and avoided the associated carbon emissions. It also means that instead of spending money on new office furniture, the charity can divert more funds to providing hospice care for adults and children living with life-limiting conditions, as well as to their families.
Julie Smith, Head of Retail and Trading at St Andrew’s Hospice, said: “We cannot thank Aon enough for the incredibly generous donation of office furniture.
“The timing of the donation was absolutely perfect as we were looking to furnish our new 15,000 sq foot online sales department and logistics warehouse in the centre of Grimsby. As a result of this donation, Aon has saved St Andrew’s Hospice thousands of pounds and the savings can now be used to deliver patient care.
“Once again we want to send a heartfelt thanks and in particular we want to mention Olivia and Michelle who have been instrumental in ensuring that the hospice received this donation and support.”
Olivia Cammack, client service specialist at Aon in Hull, said: “St Andrew’s Hospice makes a huge difference to adults and children facing life-limiting conditions, providing them with specialist care in a supportive and comfortable environment.
“Aon is not only committed to making a positive difference in the local community but as part of our ESG strategy, it is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, through pursuing sustainable business solutions.
“By donating the used furniture to St Andrew’s Hospice, we have reduced our carbon emissions and helped the charity save money.”
Aon, which employs around 50,000 people worldwide, has agreed a 10-year lease for the entire first floor of Redhill Court. The move is part of Aon’s investment in the region and brings the whole Humber-based team together in one space, providing a flexible, collaborative and open working environment for all colleagues.
