Grimsby ice rink secures £150k for essential infrastructure upgrade

Grimsby Ice Rink is undergoing a major refurbishment thanks to a £150,000 investment secured by the community group managing the facility. The funds, raised through a combination of local fundraising efforts and financial reserves, will cover critical infrastructure upgrades to keep the 50-year-old venue operational.

The refurbishment project, due to begin on 31 July and expected to last around a month, includes a full replacement of the rink’s ageing barrier system and the installation of a more energy-efficient chiller unit. The work aims to extend the lifespan of the facility, ensuring continued access to ice sports in the region.

The project is led by Grimsby Ice Rink Community Group, which took over operations in 2017 after the site faced closure. In addition to structural repairs and general maintenance, the group has ambitions to eventually develop a new ice rink, thereby future-proofing skating and ice sports locally.

Yorkshire fund aims to boost northern AI scaleups

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A new investment fund is channelling millions into Yorkshire and Northern England to accelerate the growth of early-stage artificial intelligence companies across key sectors.

The Oberon Yorkshire AI EIS Fund, launched in partnership with tech incubator Yorkshire AI Labs (YAIL), will focus on AI-led businesses in manufacturing, healthcare, transport, and financial services. The initiative is designed to position the region as a national hub for AI innovation, leveraging its strong academic base, industrial legacy, and expanding tech ecosystem.

YAIL will play a central role in sourcing and scaling portfolio companies, drawing from its experience incubating ventures such as IntelliAM AI (industrial AI), PureTec (sustainable orthodontics), and DigitalCNC (precision manufacturing). The incubator combines capital, commercial support, and founder partnerships to build investor-ready businesses.

This marks a strategic push to drive regional tech-led economic growth, develop high-performance ventures, and unlock northern AI talent. The move follows a broader trend of decentralising tech investment from London and the South East, with increased focus on regional ecosystems capable of delivering global-scale outcomes.

Business week shines spotlight on SMEs in North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Business Week commenced at the Harrogate Convention Centre on Monday, launching a series of workshops and sessions designed to enhance the capabilities of local enterprises.

With a strong emphasis on small and medium-sized businesses, the event brings together regional firms to explore practical strategies in growth, finance, marketing, and innovation. Programming is tailored to address the specific challenges and ambitions of North Yorkshire’s business landscape.

The initiative is designed to strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering direct access to expert insights and encouraging collaboration among business owners. It marks a continued effort by local authorities and stakeholders to support sustainable development in the SME sector.

CEG selects housebuilding partner for Kirkstall Forge in Leeds

CEG has entered into an exclusivity agreement with its first Joint Venture delivery partner at the flagship £600+ million Kirkstall Forge development in Leeds. Yorkshire-based Banks Homes is set to partner with CEG and prepare a Reserved Matters planning submission for a range of family homes that will be delivered within the eastern element of the site. As Banks rolls out the first phase of family homes, CEG will continue to act as master developer for the site, coordinating the delivery of infrastructure, further apartments, community facilities and commercial space as part of a thriving mixed-use development. Joe Cable, Banks Homes project manager, said: “We’re very pleased to be combining our experience and working in partnership with CEG at Kirkstall Forge. “It will be a flagship development for Banks Homes in Leeds and we look forward to delivering sought-after homes in a fantastic new community, along with all the benefits that will bring to the area.” Antonia Martin-Wright, director of commercial development at CEG, said: “We are really excited about the opportunity to work with Banks Homes. We had a fantastic response when we went out to market and the ideas Banks has proposed are in line with our vision of creating a vibrant new community at Kirkstall Forge.” CEG, on behalf of investors, has already delivered a £100 million work programme to bring this brownfield site back to life, including acquisition, clearance, remediation, archaeology, design, planning, utilities, roads, river walls and infrastructure, the opening of a dedicated railway station and the Number One office development with Butlers deli bar on the ground floor. Kirkstall Forge has planning permission for a new community incorporating homes, offices, retail, leisure and community space across the 56-acre site.

June bank holiday could unlock millions in economic activity

A proposal to establish a new bank holiday in June, aligning with Trooping the Colour, is gaining traction as business groups highlight its potential to stimulate consumer spending and support key sectors. Industry leaders argue the move would benefit hospitality, retail, and tourism, offering a tangible boost to economic activity while honouring national tradition.

The British Beer and Pub Association estimates that designating the King’s official birthday weekend as a bank holiday could generate up to £32 million for pubs alone. This would include the sale of an additional 6.5 million pints, contributing £5.5 million in VAT and £3 million in beer duty to the Treasury. The figures suggest a significant return across multiple industries, with wider community engagement and increased footfall expected in local high streets and hospitality venues.

The proposal also coincides with broader calls for a long-term support strategy for British pubs and small businesses, including reforms to beer duty and business rates. As the government considers public sentiment and economic drivers, the suggestion of a three-day weekend in June is being positioned not just as a symbolic gesture but as a strategic economic lever for post-pandemic recovery and growth.

Private equity firm acquires UK clay pipe manufacturer

4D Capital Partners has acquired Hepworth Clay, the UK’s last remaining producer of vitrified clay drainage systems, in a move that signals renewed investor interest in vertically integrated manufacturing assets.

The Yorkshire-based firm, formerly part of Orbia subsidiary Wavin, operates across two production sites totalling over half a million square feet. Its operations span the full value chain, drawing raw materials from its own 18-million-tonne clay reserves, an increasingly rare advantage in UK industry. Alongside its core drainage systems, Hepworth also produces terracotta components for flue and chimney ventilation.

The acquisition positions Hepworth as a standalone business under private equity ownership, with 4D Capital expected to focus on expanding its capacity, modernising operations, and driving long-term value through operational independence.

The deal was supported by advisers including Quantuma, Shoosmiths, Dickson Minto, K3, and Ford Campbell Freedman.

Alex Silk, founder of 4D, said: “We are delighted to have invested in Hepworth Clay and very proud to become the custodians of this heritage brand. There is an excellent team in place with some exceptionally talented people who share our passion for high-quality manufacturing. We look forward to working with them to realise the full potential of Hepworth Clay.”

Siemens advances UK rail manufacturing hub with £20m investment

Siemens has begun construction on a new £20 million bogie assembly and service centre in Goole, East Yorkshire. The 145,000 sq ft facility, delivered by Caddick Construction and designed by AHR Architects, will form a key part of the developing Goole Rail Village. Scheduled for completion in spring 2026, the centre will support the production and maintenance of rail bogies and wheelsets for international transport networks.

Built on a 3.7-acre site adjacent to Siemens’ existing train manufacturing plant, the development includes supporting infrastructure such as parking and site access. The project is part of Siemens Mobility’s wider UK strategy to scale up its advanced rail technology capabilities.

The Goole facility adds to Caddick’s expanding portfolio of industrial projects in the North, which also includes Schneider Electric’s £42 million manufacturing plant in Scarborough. These developments align with broader regional ambitions to attract investment into green energy and transport manufacturing.

Digital grant aims to boost tech adoption among North Yorkshire businesses

Small businesses across York and North Yorkshire can now apply for a Digital Adoption Grant aimed at supporting investment in new technologies to enhance productivity and growth. Launched by the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, the scheme offers between £1,000 and £3,000 to eligible firms seeking to improve their digital capabilities.

The funding is intended to help businesses create or upgrade digital assets such as websites or e-commerce platforms, with a broader focus on streamlining operations, boosting lead generation, and enabling long-term growth through digital transformation.

Backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the grant forms part of a wider initiative to equip local enterprises with the tools needed to stay competitive in an increasingly digital economy.

Applications close on Monday, 14 July. Interested businesses are encouraged to prepare early to secure funding that could significantly improve their operational efficiency and customer reach.

Manningham Housing Association secures ownership of £5m affordable homes scheme

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has acquired five new build detached houses in Eccleshill, Bradford in a £1.1 million deal. With the addition of these two three-bed and three four-bed properties, MHA now owns all 24 homes in the recently completed One Meadow development on Victoria Road. This represents a total investment of £5 million, delivered through a partnership with Zentra Group and support from Homes England and Bradford Council. The scheme – consisting of two, three and four-bed semi-detached and detached properties, plus a town house – is situated in a residential area two miles north-east of Bradford city centre, close to several primary and secondary schools, a health centre, sports facilities and supermarkets. Built by Jack Lunn Construction, the properties have a reduced carbon footprint and an expected minimum energy performance rating B or greater. John Kent, MHA director of finance and resources, said: “We are thrilled to secure full ownership of this stunning new development. “This would not have been possible without ongoing support from Homes England, Bradford Council, our dedicated staff, board members, investors, our partnership with Zentra Group and, most importantly, our customers. “It is located in an established local community with a robust identity and reliable communal services, ensuring a high quality of life for its residents. “The proximity to existing MHA housing stock and the high demand for housing in the area contributes to the long-term viability of the project for current and future generations.” Rupert Pometsey, MHA chair, said: “Acquiring the entire One Meadow scheme underscores our deep resolve to support local communities in Bradford. “We are dedicated to ensuring that every individual and family we serve feels valued and supported. These new properties represent another major step forward in achieving that goal. “The development not only expands our housing stock but reaffirms our dedication to being the landlord of choice, providing secure and comfortable homes at an affordable cost.”

Design practice sails into Leeds Dock

The Leeds office of property consultancy Knight Frank has helped UK design practice, P+HS Architects, move into new premises at Leeds Dock. P+HS Architects has taken 5,296 sq ft of office space at East Dock on a five-year lease with a three-year break. The rent is circa £25 per sq ft. The relocation reflects the continued growth of P+HS, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Employing over 120 people, with four offices across the UK, the new studio provides the space and infrastructure needed to support the future expansion and ambitions of the practice. James Almond, managing director at P+HS Architects, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the team at Knight Frank for their support in helping us find the perfect space and making the move as smooth as possible. “Our new office at East Dock places us in the heart of the city’s creative district and allows us to enhance our offer across West Yorkshire while supporting our growing capability to deliver nationally. This is an important step forward for us. “It’s not just about having more space, but about giving our team the best environment to support the outstanding work we are passionate about delivering. We know better than most how the places we work in influence how we work, so being based in a vibrant, waterside location like Leeds Dock offers an inspiring setting to do just this.” Victoria Harris, associate with Knight Frank in Leeds, said: “We were delighted to help P+HS find the perfect location for their practice at Leeds Dock. It’s great to have such a brilliant business with an excellent reputation moving to an iconic building and area of Leeds. We wish P+HS the very best in their new home. “This move underlines the burgeoning reputation of Leeds Dock as a prime location for flourishing businesses. Its attractive location and creative atmosphere are a winning combination and the Dock area is now a special jewel in Leeds’s crown.” Giles Edwards, head of asset management at Allied London, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome P+HS to Leeds Dock. Their decision to join us here is a great endorsement of the vibrant, creative community we’re building and the unique environment the Dock offers.” Meanwhile Elizabeth Peckett, asset director at Leeds Dock, said: “P+HS Architects will benefit from an exciting new chapter at Leeds Dock, as they will automatically qualify for membership with Department Leeds Dock. “This follows a strategic partnership between Leeds Dock and Department – the award-winning serviced office and lifestyle operator – who will oversee the entire commercial workspace portfolio across the waterfront destination. The collaboration marks the launch of a major new fully serviced tech, media and creative hub for the city and wider region. “As members of Department, businesses will enjoy access to a wide range of premium amenities, including private offices, co-working spaces, a café, bar, restaurant, fitness studios, podcast and screening rooms, workshops, and event facilities – all within a dynamic, design-led environment. “In addition, several new activation buildings are set to be developed around the dock, further enhancing the community offering, with more details to be announced soon.”