Grant to help create Hull city centre office space

Hull’s Gosschalks’ building will undergo significant refurbishment to create city centre office space and employment opportunities thanks to support from Levelling Up Funding (LUF). Sixtyone QG Limited has been awarded £381,807 as part of its large-scale project in the city centre at 61 Dock Street. The grant award has come from Hull City Council’s government LUF and is to support the refurbishment of the building to upgrade, repair and refurbish offices, whilst also releasing surplus space for third party use. Works also include improving the building’s energy efficiency by replacing gas heating systems with electric. This grant award will help to bring back into use 355 sq m of vacant floor space, whilst it is also expected to create 34 jobs through existing and incoming tenants. The total cost of the project is estimate at £1,909,039, meaning over £1.5m of private capital will be invested in Hull city centre. Garry Taylor, assistant director for major projects, culture and place at the council, said: “City centre office space is much sought after in Hull and this project will help to provide extra provision. “I am delighted that the council has been able to support the applicant to make this a possibility through LUF.”

University of Lincoln graduate lands job supporting farmers

Agrovista has appointed Leah Williamson as rural consultant and agronomist within its northern regional team to help farmers make the most of new income opportunities as England’s agricultural policy transition gathers pace. Leah currently offers guidance on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and nutrient management planning, and will also provide advice on Countryside Stewardship and capital grant work as demand builds. After growing up on the family arable farm near Lincoln, where she helped out and developed a sound grounding in her practical farming skills, Leah obtained an HND at Bishop Burton College followed by a foundation degree in agriculture at the University of Lincoln. Leah, who is BASIS and FACTS qualified, said: “Most of my work is supporting agronomists and their farmer customers to get the best from these schemes,” says Leah, who now lives on her partner’s dairy farm in Cumbria. “Working closely with the agronomy team makes sense, as they are already an integral part of a farming business and know what is likely to work best for their customers. “SFI in particular can fit very well with practical farming if it is implemented correctly; Agrovista’s aim is to keep as much land as possible in production while enabling farmers to make best use of SFI options. “That has to be the right approach, and I’m really looking forward to helping farmers make use of what’s on offer and to help them to farm as efficiently as possible to help offset the loss of BPS payments.”

Sheffield United Women unite with Autoglass to give women a stronger voice in male-dominated industries

Autoglass and Sheffield United Women have joined forces at a joint Partnership Day to promote and support women in male-dominated industries. The Partnership Day saw technicians at Autoglass and Sheffield United Women’s team players meet and share experiences at the Autoglass HQ in Bedford. The Sheffield United players got a tutorial in windscreen repair and replacement from technicians at Autoglass, followed by a series of football games led by the Sheffield United players. Autoglass staff also got involved in a series of competitions and games held throughout the day. Ian Rowlands, Commercial Director at Autoglass, said: “Our partnership with the Sheffield United Women’s team builds off our ambition to create a more diverse and equitable business. Gender diversity has been a priority for us not only because it’s the right thing to do, but it also makes business sense – it ensures we are reflective of our customer base and provides us with a balanced approach to business decisions. “We draw parallels with the Sheffield United Women’s team as we look to create more gender balance and shift mindsets within our industries. The partnership gives us a fantastic opportunity to share and learn from each other as we continue working hard towards more inclusive workplaces.” Paul Reeves, Head of Commercial at Sheffield Utd FC, said: “It was a fantastic partnership event to highlight the synergy between the football club and Autoglass. Our shared commitment of championing equality in male-dominated industries was highlighted throughout a truly inspiring day, packed with lots of fun and engaging activities. We look forward to many more opportunities to further foster our mutual ambition and growth between our two organisations.”

Sheffield’s West Bar reaches topping out stage

The first phase 100,000 sq ft Grade A office building and two residential towers with almost 370 build-to-rent apartments have reached the topping out stage at Sheffield’s West Bar project. West Bar Square in the heart of the commercial area and Soho Yard serving the residential BTR apartments, are also due to complete soon. Senior officials from Sheffield City Council, Urbo (West Bar) Ltd, and Legal and General, which are all stakeholders in the significant regeneration project, attended the ceremony to celebrate the occasion. Peter Swallow, Managing Director at Urbo, said: “We are delighted to reach this significant milestone at West Bar Sheffield which is a strategically important regeneration project for the city.  Indeed, it is integral to the transformational plan for Sheffield city centre, extending its prime core, and bringing forward much need new space for commercial and residential accommodation.” Ben Rodgers, Head of Regeneration, LGIM Real Assets added: “We’re thrilled to reach this project milestone as we get closer to realising the vision for West Bar. This mixed-use scheme will create a vibrant new quarter that re-connects with the city centre, delivering much needed office accommodation, housing, and green landscaped public spaces.  This further helps demonstrate the power of responsibly investing pension savings in urban regeneration, transforming and reshaping cities, creating productive, sustainable assets for future generations.” Kate Josephs, Chief Executive at Sheffield City Council, said: “Sheffield needs high quality, energy efficient office and commercial space so it’s great to see this development close to completion. West Bar is a prime example of what can be achieved through strong partnership between the public and private sector.” Bowmer + Kirkland, principal contractor for the scheme, showcased progress on site from the top of the office building, No.1 West Bar Square, which acts as an impressive gateway for the site.  It also presented the significant social, local, and economic impact achieved to date.  This represents £14.9 million of value to the local economy with 57% of jobs created locally within a 30-mile radius, 288 apprentice weeks and the overall sustainability of construction demonstrated with 99.5% of waste diverted from landfill. West Bar represents the long-awaited redevelopment of a prominent seven-acre brownfield site on the Inner Ring Road between Sheffield’s Kelham Island, Cathedral and Castlegate Quarters.  It is to comprise one million sq ft of mixed-use space including over 500,000 sq ft of office accommodation with amenities, public realm and hundreds of apartments and the project expects to create up to 8,000 new jobs when completed. After many years in planning, the first phase was able to commence following a ground-breaking deal to secure £150 million funding from Legal & General.  This agreement represents the largest single city centre investment deal that Sheffield has ever seen. As part of the agreed deal between Legal & General and Urbo, a second 100,000 sq ft office building will be delivered to follow No.1 West Bar Square.  A new 450 space multi-storey car park is also part of the first phase which offers around 300 cycle storage spaces and electric car charging points.  Connectivity into the surrounding walking and cycling routes is incorporated to encourage more sustainable travel.  

Firms invited to share in Government’s £1.8m freight decarbonisation fund

Businesses across the UK are being urged to apply for a share in £1.8 million of government funding boost to develop ways to  deliver innovative tech that will decarbonise freight. SMEs can get their share by deploying cutting-edge AI technology and automation to improve the way trains, lorries, vans, and ships carry parcels and goods. Examples of the developments made possible through earlier grants include Royal Mail working with Skyports to deliver mail by drones across Orkney. This is the first time ever mail is being delivered by drones in the UK, allowing Royal Mail to deliver 24 hours faster than using vans or ferries. The Freight Innovation Fund has also supported FedEx in trialling new eCargo bikes to deliver parcels quickly in traffic-heavy city centres, helping decarbonise deliveries. Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “The freight and logistics sectors are part of our economy’s backbone, ensuring supermarket shelves are stocked, hospitals receive crucial medical supplies and important deliveries are made.

“That’s why, as part of the government’s plan to grow the economy, the Freight Innovation Fund is supporting businesses to innovate and back skilled UK jobs.”

Mansfield Pollard CEO wins national recognition

The CEO of Bradford-based Mansfield Pollard has been included in the 2024 E2E Female 100 Track in association with The Independent. She’s Louise Frankland, who said: “Being recognised on the E2E Female 100 Track is not just a personal accolade; it’s a testament to the extraordinary capabilities and dedication of our entire team at Mansfield Pollard. “This recognition shines a spotlight on the UK’s manufacturing industry, underscoring its significance on a national scale. Together, we’ve fostered a winning culture that drives innovation and excellence, propelling us forward in these challenging times. It’s an honour to be listed among such remarkable enterprises, and this achievement highlights the relentless spirit and hard work of every member of our team. Shalini Khemka, founder of E2E said: “The E2E Female 100 has allowed us to highlight the amazing companies throughout the UK with a turnover in excess of £25million. These are companies that despite a challenging economy and in fact a challenging few years, have generated exceptional turnover results and are continuing to grow at a rapid rate.”

APSS sponsors prestigious county swimming championship

The annual Lincolnshire Open Water County Championship returns for a 3rd year, sponsored by Lincoln-based commercial interior design and fit out business APSS Group. The event on 16th June at Activities Away, South Hykeham, organised by the Lincolnshire Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) and Swim England, is seen as a springboard for swimmers who want to compete at a regional and national level. APSS Group’s Commercial Manager Sean Cuffley will be one of the estimated 100 swimmers of all ages and abilities taking part. Managing Director Laurence Barrass said: “APSS Group is committed to giving back to the local community and contributing to the growth of the sport within the county. “We’re pleased to be sponsoring the championship for the second year in a row. Last year was a huge success with competitors and spectators from across the county coming together on the day. “We’re looking forward to seeing everyone take part, including Sean. In 2023 he came fourth overall and was county champion in the 35 to 44 age group. We’re very proud of his achievements.” The annual Lincolnshire Open Water County Championship attracts some of the top swimmers in the region and is open to age groups 11 to 17 years and 18 plus. Suzy Hegg, Lincolnshire County Swimming’s Open Water Officer, said: “Open water swimming is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, and Lincolnshire is committed to developing swimmers to compete in and out of the pool. “We have added a new para-swimming category this year as we want this event to be as inclusive as possible. “Last year’s event was a record year for the championships. We had 79 competitors (46 Age Group and 33 Masters). The competitors came from nine separate clubs around the county. The youngest was 11 and the oldest 71. “The county championship’s aim is to provide a springboard to other competitions, and we achieved that goal. Following the event 14 went on to regional championships and five qualified for English National Open Water Championships. “The 2024 Lincolnshire open water competition is a week before the regionals, so this provides the perfect platform and vital practice ahead of this event. “We are hopeful for an even bigger event this year and we are targeting 100 of the best swimmers from the county. “With the help of our sponsor APSS, we have significantly raised the profile of open water swimming in Lincolnshire.”

Appointments and promotions made at Aon’s Leeds office

Aon plc, a professional services firm, has made four appointments and two promotions in its Leeds advisory commercial risk team following a period of growth.

Aon has appointed Jessica Kelly and Lee Maddison to client director. Jessica and Lee, who have 25 years and 10 years’ experience respectively, will be responsible for managing existing client relationships and business development.

In addition, Emily Gray and Lucy Joyce join as client service advisers. With 20 and 13 years’ experience respectively, they will be responsible for broking and placement of new business, renewals and mid-term adjustments for commercial risk clients.

Leading the promotions is Cheryl Archibald, who has been promoted to client service manager. In the five years since joining Aon, Cheryl has held the role of senior broker and successfully completed her Chartered Insurance Institute Diploma.

In her new role, Cheryl will oversee a team of client service advisers, manage a book of clients and advise them on all aspects of commercial risk insurance. In addition, William Mason has been promoted to client service adviser after relocating from Peterborough to Leeds.

James Fell, head of office, Aon Leeds, said: “Congratulations to everyone on their well-deserved promotions and welcome to our new colleagues, who, with their wealth of experience, local market knowledge and expertise, have further strengthened the advisory team.

“By acquiring and nurturing highly skilled talent and creating a supportive culture that places colleagues at the heart of the business, we continue to invest in our capabilities and ensure that our clients receive a top class service.”

Cheryl Archibald, client service manager in Aon advisory, said: “I love working at Aon. Being a part of a supportive culture that fosters talent by providing a clear development plan has resulted in my promotion.

“Aon is an excellent employer and I am grateful and pleased that they have recognised my hard work and promoted me to client service manager.”

More than £6m AI upskilling fund launched to help SMEs

From today (1 May) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can bid for a share of £6.4 million to help train their workforce to use artificial intelligence and in turn boost productivity and efficiency. Sectors set to benefit include law, accountancy, scientific research and human resources, with the UK Government making up to £10,000 available for each business so they can embrace cutting edge and efficiency boosting new technology. SMEs in these areas will be able to tap into the power of AI to streamline tasks, boost productivity, and drive growth. This could include accountants using generative AI tools such as ChatGPT to draft documents, develop new software which could help to tackle fraud, and legal professionals harnessing the power of AI to analyse lengthy documents such as contracts to provide concise summaries, freeing up time to focus on other critical areas. By adopting the enormous potential of AI technologies, SMEs across the country will be able to not only improve productivity and drive down costs, but to devote more time to identifying new areas of growth which will deliver new and improved services for consumers. Expected to support around 2,000 SMEs across the country, businesses employing under 250 staff can now apply for the support, which will see successful applicants reimbursed for up to 50% of the cost of investment in AI skills training. The move is to future-proof these businesses and incentivise investment in AI skills to ensure they retain a competitive edge through increased productivity and reduced costs, as they begin to integrate AI into their operations – building a pool of technological talent alongside supporting employee growth and development. Whilst human supervision, judgement, creativity and empathy remain vital requirements in the workplace, augmenting AI into monotonous tasks like inputting data and filling out paperwork can increase speed and efficiency and play a major part in increasing business productivity. Delivered through the UK Government’s Flexible AI Upskilling Fund, the pilot launched today will support SMEs in the Professional and Business Services (PBS) sector, with SMEs encouraged to apply between now and 31 May for grant funding to deliver training before March 2025. Businesses specialising in professional services such as law, accounting and market research, alongside those providing business services such as HR, administration and leasing consumer goods are already seeing some of the benefits AI can bring to their day-to-day operations. This includes analysing large volumes of text, answering customer service queries and generating images and text for a variety of applications, including advertising campaigns, contracts and blog posts. AI is also having a huge impact in specialised areas like drafting legal documents for law firms and creating virtual renderings for architects. While smaller enterprises often acknowledge the benefits AI can bring to business operations, many require support when it comes to identifying the training employees should undertake to suit business needs. The AI Skills for Business Framework, also launching today, will help businesses to grip the huge opportunities AI has to offer, driving innovation and future-proofing their workforce. With the support of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Innovate UK and The Alan Turing Institute have developed this new framework for businesses, to identify the skills and knowledge their employees might need to use AI in the workplace and make the most of emerging technologies. Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “Businesses of all sizes and across all sectors, from architecture to law and HR to advertising, are identifying the huge benefits that AI can bring in helping staff boost their productivity while cutting business costs. “I have launched this new pilot to help SMEs interested in AI adoption make it a reality by contributing towards the cost of upskilling their employees – ultimately increasing efficiency so companies can retain a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.”

Vinyl record manufacturing start-up takes on new premises in York

Start-up business Vinyl Press UK Ltd has leased 2,500 sq ft premises at Monks Cross – the first pressing plant of its kind in the city of York. Vinyl Press was established by musical entrepreneurs Lucy Johnson (managing director), Neville Proctor (financial director), and Susie Proctor (director), who realised an opportunity to offer smaller to mid-sized labels with much needed vinyl record manufacturing facilities in the north of England. The opening of the facility coincides with demand for vinyl records having increased for the 16th year in a row last year, with 6.5 million sold, taking overall sales above £170m. Taylor Swift’s 1989 (Taylor’s Version) was the best-selling LP, followed by the Rolling Stones’ Hackney Diamonds. Vinyl Press has launched the business with a small team but expects to recruit several more members of staff within the next 12 months as the company’s order book and client roster grows. The client list already extends into Europe, and they have quickly become part of a global network of manufacturers and industry experts. Lucy Johnson said: “I have been involved in the music industry for over two decades, so we’re absolutely delighted to see vinyl records enjoying a renaissance in the mainstream and among the younger generations across the UK. “Since opening the doors to our new pressing facility, we have produced several records of different sizes and colours for a wide range of genres, from drum and bass and jazz, to punk and folk. “As well as working with established record labels, we’re keen to develop relationships with smaller independent record labels to find ways to make vinyl production more accessible again on a grass roots level.” Neville Proctor said: “It’s an exciting time to start manufacturing in the music industry. Our goal is to establish relationships with our customers and consistently produce high quality records whilst also innovating and exploring the creative possibilities so integral to physical music releases.” Chris Waterhouse, real estate and property partner at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, said: “Having acted for the Proctor family for over 20 years, it has been particularly pleasing to assist Neville, Lucy and Susie with Vinyl Press and to ensure that their best interests are protected as tenants. I wish them the very best for their new venture.”