New homes set for former Lloyds Bank building in Hull thanks to Levelling Up Funding
The former Lloyds Bank building on the junction of George Street and Bond Street will undergo a full refurbishment to create 46 residential properties thanks to support from Levelling Up Funding (LUF).
A total of £550,000 has been granted by Hull City Council from the government’s LUF towards the £7.4 million project.
Applicant Modernistiq (Hull) Ltd has plans for restoration of the full building, inside and out.
Plans have been approved to convert the former banking hall on the ground floor to 22 flats, whilst the upper floors have permission to be altered from offices to an additional 24 dwellings.
Part of the works will also include restoration of the original Bond Street elevation clock face and painting and cleaning to the building’s historic façade.
Once the makeover is complete, it will not only provide modern, high-quality city centre living, but also local jobs.
Cllr Paul Drake-Davis, the council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and housing, said: “This is an excellent project which will bring back into use a large, vacant building, whilst also providing new city centre residential opportunities.
“The Levelling Up Fund continues to contribute to Hull, bringing in private investment to help regenerate our city centre.”
Sweetening the deal: Cookies for Heroes
In a world that’s constantly on the move, there are those who stand steadfast, dedicated to serving and protecting others. These are our everyday heroes – the individuals who selflessly give their all to ensure our safety, health, and education. Yet, too often, their unwavering commitment goes unnoticed and unappreciated.
Motor Source Group believe it’s time to change that. It is proud to introduce the heartwarming campaign, Cookies for Heroes, an initiative aimed at recognising and celebrating the heroes in our communities who serve in the NHS, Police, Prison Service, Fire & Rescue Services, Military, and the teaching profession.
A token of gratitude
Cookies for Heroes is a way to show appreciation to those who tirelessly work behind the scenes, making sacrifices for the greater good, and every month, Motor Source Group will be sending out a box of delicious cookie box treats to say thank you.
Steve Thornton, founder and CEO, said: “We have always strongly believed in thanking our communities with our mission firmly focused on recognising and rewarding our emergency services and other public sector personnel with our unique new car discounts programme.
“In the current climate, we understand the time and financial struggles people are facing, so now more than ever our everyday heroes deserve to know they are appreciated, and we’re here to tell them in the sweetest way possible – with cookies!”
Nominate your everyday hero
We invite you to nominate your everyday heroes. These could be the doctors and nurses working tirelessly in our hospitals, the brave officers on our streets, the compassionate educators shaping our children’s future, and so many more. If you know an individual, team or department who goes above and beyond in their service, it’s time to shine a spotlight on them.
Nomination is easy! Simply fill out the nomination form here: tinyurl.com/motorsourcecookies
Share why they deserve recognition, and how they’ve made a difference in your life or your community. Motor Source Group can’t wait to read your inspiring stories and honour these exceptional people.
Don’t forget to share this with your friends and colleagues too so Motor Source Group can send out more sweet treats.
Supporting another small business too
Motor Source Group’s cookies aren’t just any cookies; they are handmade, bespoke, and crafted with love by a local small business, Cookie Doodle Doo in Lincolnshire. So not only will you be spreading cheer to your deserving colleagues, you will also be supporting a small business too.
Together, we can make a difference
Motor Source Group firmly believes that a small act of kindness can go a long way. Cookies for Heroes is its way of saying thank you, but it’s also an opportunity for all of us to collectively express our gratitude to the heroes who keep our communities safe, healthy, and educated. Together, we can make a difference and bring smiles to the faces of those who work tirelessly to make the world a better place.
Join us in this heartwarming campaign and let’s sweeten the lives of our everyday heroes one cookie at a time.
Nominate your everyday heroes today: tinyurl.com/motorsourcecookies
Rotherham markets redevelopment takes step forward
Enabling works to prepare Rotherham Markets for future redevelopment are now underway as part of a key milestone in the borough’s town centre masterplan.
Cabinet Member for Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Denise Lelliott joined Ward Councillors and partners Henry Boot Construction to break ground on the site, which will also include the addition of a new library.
Once works are complete, visitors will benefit from a refurbished indoor and covered market, extensive public realm, a modern and accessible central library and improved links to the town centre and college.
Cllr Denise Lelliott said: “The redevelopment is a testament to our dedication to preserving the heritage of our town while embracing a dynamic future. This initiative will not only breathe new life into our community, but also provide economic opportunities for our local businesses.
“The reinvention of the markets is not just a facelift, but a holistic reimagining that aims to boost the local economy, celebrate our diverse community, and provide an accessible, enjoyable space for all.”
The reimagined space will promote both seasoned and emerging local businesses, providing varied offerings to shoppers and fostering a prosperous trading environment built upon the existing mix of shops and services with the addition of a new food hub and dining area.
Embedded within the redevelopment is the addition of a cutting-edge library. Offering more than just books, the library will become a new cultural, leisure and learning destination and will include a children’s area, café, a dedicated IT space and a business development facility.
Craig Finn, director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “Commencement of the enabling works are exciting first steps in this transformative project for Rotherham. Creating new and vibrant urban destinations is part of the Henry Boot DNA and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Rotherham Council to bring the vision from the drawing-board to reality.”
The RAIN Building and former Chart Arms pub on Eastwood Lane have already been demolished, with the main building works expected to start in early 2024.
Rotherham Council received funding from the government’s Future High Street Fund to pay for part of the improvements at the market with additional funding secured from the council and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.
Local leaders agree £51m support for councils
The Mayor of West Yorkshire has joined together with the region’s five local leaders to return £51 million to local authority budgets, as councils across the country make stark warnings about the state of local government finances.
The funding comes at a time when town halls face serious financial challenges posed by high inflation, rising costs and increased demand for children’s and adult social care, following the COVID-19 pandemic and over a decade of significant funding cuts from central government.
The cash being returned to councils comes from The West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund reserve, which funds long-term infrastructure projects in the region.
Local leaders have stressed that long-term sustainable funding from central government is vital to properly address the financial situation facing councils.
The £51 million funding, agreed at a meeting of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has been made possible through partnership working between the Mayor and five district council leaders, in order to relieve some budget pressures.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Councils across West Yorkshire and beyond are facing the perfect storm of government austerity cuts and high inflation. Because of devolution, I’ve been able to work with them to identify this support at a time of need.
“With town halls across the country declaring huge financial deficits, it is only right that regional leaders work together and step in where they can. But I am urging the government to stop passing the buck for their mismanagement of the economy and properly fund local government for the long-term.”
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said: “One of the benefits of working closely in partnership with the Combined Authority is that we’re able to ensure funding is in the right place at the right time to be of best use.
“While this return of funding is appreciated, it in no way makes up for the £350m in funding for Bradford that has been cut by central government.
“Many local authorities nationally are facing significant financial challenges, government needs to change its approach to ensure councils can continue to meet increasing demand for services amid high inflation and energy costs.”
Cllr Jane Scullion, Leader of Calderdale Council, said: “We welcome this repayment which will help us to deal with the immediate financial challenge we are facing. Like all councils, we have significant ongoing pressures. The £110 million of budget savings we’ve had to find over the past decade impacts on what we do every day.
“However, we again delivered a balanced budget last year and we remain ambitious for Calderdale. We continue to deliver our largest ever capital programme across our towns – which the LGA Corporate Peer Challenge team recently described as ‘bold’ and ‘innovative’ – we continue to strive to reduce inequalities and we are responding to the climate emergency given its impact on Calderdale.”
Cllr Cathy Scott, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “Councils in our region, and across the country, are facing major financial challenges. Releasing this funding back to councils is a positive step to reduce some of the immediate pressures.
“But many tough decisions remain for all local authorities and we urgently need wider government reform of the funding system to protect services for the long-term.”
Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Leeds City Council is facing huge financial pressures made worse by national issues linked to inflation and growing demand for council services.
“The funding from the mayor will help in part, but it won’t solve the underlying problem that councils just aren’t properly funded by national Government. With a projected funding gap in Leeds of £59.2m next financial year, our council will still have to take some extremely difficult decisions about council services and buildings that haven’t been considered before.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “This decision is a great example of political leaders across West Yorkshire working together in difficult circumstances.
“It comes in response to the unprecedented challenge Local Government is facing. Caused by the Government’s irresponsible approach to our economy. Significant cuts to our budgets since 2010. And by a lack of long-term decisions on how to fund Councils sustainably.
“That makes it more important than ever that we have a strong partnership approach across the region. This is a really practical solution which will help us continue to deliver for the communities that rely on us.”
Free event will highlight employment opportunities
A free event to highlight employment opportunities, career guidance and training in the West Lindsey area of Lincolnshire will take place next month.
The West Lindsey Employment & Skills Partnership is sponsoring an Autumn Jobs and Training Fair, supported by the Department for Work & Pensions on Wednesday 1 November 2023.
This interactive and informative event will take place at the Riverside Room in Gainsborough, between 10am-2pm and offers all residents access to help and advice from employers, training providers and advice agencies.
Local employers and organisations promoting career opportunities and training in the district, will be available to talk to, with experts on hand to talk about the skills employers are looking for.
Graham Metcalfe, Partnership Manager for the DWP, said: “We have worked closely with the Council and the Skills Partnership over many years to assist with the running of similar events, which provide employers and partners with an opportunity to connect their offers to the customer base. These events provide great outcomes for those able to attend. We look forward to supporting November’s event.”
West Lindsey District Council is a member of the Skills Partnership and will sponsor the event. Amanda Bouttell who is the employment and skills lead for the Council is currently lining up employers to attend with job vacancies. She said:“We’re fully committed to meeting the needs of local employers by promoting job vacancies to those seeking work. The Jobs Fair is also a great way for individuals to speak with employer’s face to face.
“They can collect information, ask questions, apply for jobs or even have a mini-interview. The event aims to give individuals that extra confidence boost to apply for job roles.”
Walther Strong expands to Grantham industrial estate
In a deal brokered by heb Chartered Surveyors and Phillips Sutton, specialist adhesive product manufacturers Walther Strong have expanded into new premises at Autumn Park Industrial Estate, Grantham.
As part of a major expansion due to continued growth in the business, the specialist adhesive manufacturers have occupied 10,000 sq ft of refurbished premises on the popular Dysart Road, in central Grantham.
Fred Dunn of Walther Strong said: “Walther Strong was established in January 2019 going from 2 product lines and now boasting a catalogue of products with 40 pages. We have been on a journey of growth for 4 solid years even during the challenges that we were all faced with from the 2020 – 2021 period.
“Our latest challenge is capturing opportunity, through continuous innovative products, that are focused on solving common construction problems, leading to this constant expansion. We primarily manufacture tapes and adhesives within the construction industry with bespoke items being made upon request.
“We outgrew our current premises in just 2 years and needed somewhere suitable for our needs. Autumn Park is a great location and a great place to continue to develop and grow the wonderful team we have.
“We have expanded our staff by 300% and continue to be on the lookout for dynamic, driven individuals who have a keen aptitude for sales and lead generation within the construction sector.”
Walther Strong is the third major occupier to move onto the estate since the recent multi-million pound refurbishment carried out by owners Paloma Capital.
Tom Ridge on behalf of Paloma said: “We are delighted to welcome Walther Strong to the estate and wish them all the best for their continued expansion.
“They are the latest occupier to move in since our acquisition and refurbishment of the estate – it is really pleasing to see our faith in this excellent location and subsequent investment generating new business occupation.
“Interest has been good since the completion of the refurbishment and currently only 4 of the 22 units remain available to rent.
“We can accommodate occupiers from 2,000 to 40,000 sq ft and would welcome further expressions of interest from local businesses.”
British Gypsum supports inmate rehabilitation with donation to Willmott Dixon programme at HMP Lincoln
British Gypsum has made a donation to Willmott Dixon’s Building Lives Programme, in support of the Drylining Academy for inmates at HMP Lincoln.
The programme, aimed at imparting drylining skills to inmates, not only equips them with valuable trade skills but also paves the way for successful reintegration into society.
In an ongoing commitment to uplifting local communities, British Gypsum has donated essential materials for the Willmott Dixon initiative at HMP Lincoln. The donation includes British Gypsum Plasterboard, timber sole plates, various screws, studs, and fixing straps, all of which are integral to the drylining training program. The Drylining Academy is instrumental in providing inmates with a unique opportunity for personal growth and skill development. By participating in the drylining training program, inmates not only gain a valuable trade skill but also earn qualifications that significantly enhance their employability upon release. “The donation to the Drylining Academy exemplifies our shared commitment to community well-being and sustainable rehabilitation,” said Sam Blacknell, head of skills partnership at British Gypsum. “We are honoured to contribute to a programme that empowers inmates with skills and knowledge, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives and embark on a new path of success and independence.” The Willmott Dixon drylining training programme aligns seamlessly with HMP Lincoln’s mission to promote inmate rehabilitation and reintegration. With the unique ability to provide inmates with training, testing, and CSCS card certification within the facility, HMP Lincoln is a pioneer in preparing inmates for a smooth transition back into society and offering them a specialised skill set that opens doors to various employment opportunities. Shelley Williamson, social value manager at Willmott Dixon, said: “We are deeply committed to driving sustainable change through our initiatives. The partnership with British Gypsum is a testament to our shared dedication to social impact and redefining the lives of individuals within our communities.”ABBA’s Björn to speak at Business day event in Bridlington
ABBA founding member Björn Ulvaeus will be the keynote speaker for The Business Day at Bridlington Spa on Friday 7th June next year.
Björn Ulvaeus will talk to a 650-strong audience about the creation of ABBA Voyage, leadership, entrepreneurship, AI, technology, innovation, meta data and the complexity of business in the music industry. T
The Business Day Event Director Stephen Barnaby said: “We are honoured and ecstatic to welcome Björn Ulvaeus to The Business Day as our keynote speaker. His contributions to music and culture are unparalleled, and his presence will undoubtedly elevate The Business Day to new heights. Delegates will have the opportunity to gain first-hand insights from a true visionary; his keynote address will be the highlight of the day.”
Mark Lonsdale, General Manager, Bridlington Spa and Producer of The Business Day said: “Bridlington Spa is renowned for attracting major names to the region and I am delighted that Björn will be gracing the stage of our Edwardian Theatre as our keynote speaker.
“Delegates can look forward to a thought-provoking and inspiring address that will delve into Mr. Ulvaeus’ experiences, insights, and observations from his remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning decades, Björn will share valuable perspectives on creativity, collaboration, innovation, and the power of music to transcend boundaries.”
The Business Day is aimed at business leaders as an inspirational day with guest speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in dynamic discussions, networking, breakout sessions and more, all aimed at fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth within business. The inclusion of Björn Ulvaeus as the keynote speaker adds an extra layer of prestige and excitement to the event.
Driffield firm opens distribution centre in the Netherlands
Driffield-based wellness business Vyta Health has opened a new distribution centre in the Netherlands.
The custom-built distribution centre boasts more than 1,600 sqm of warehouse and office space for the 26 employees based there. This expansion now gives Vyta Health nearly 5,000 sqm of distribution space across the UK and Europe, with a team of 43 employees. Vyta Health specialises in importing premium vitamins and supplements from the US, and distributing them across Europe. The Group rebranded as Vyta Health at the start of the year, merging two leading supplement businesses, Bigvits and By Nature. Group CEO Will Brennand said: “The distribution centre will allow us to further scale and streamline our operations in the Netherlands, and service our many trade and retail customers as we continue to expand across Europe. The new site has been in the pipeline since we acquired By Nature 2 years ago and we are all really excited to open its doors. The move supports our aim to become the largest independent distributor of vitamins and supplements across Europe.” Operations Director Sascha Gerdowski added: “We worked closely with the developers to ensure the new building would meet our needs as we continue to grow, and we are delighted with the outcome. We have even included a cool room to ensure products can be stored at the right temperature all year round, to maintain their high quality. We are really proud to finally move into the new distribution centre which will help us deliver our Group strategy in the years to come.”Forgemasters signs MoU to be part of UK nuclear reactor development
Sheffield Forgemasters, X-energy, and Cavendish Nuclear, have signed an MoU to collaborate on the next generation of UK nuclear reactors.
The companies will explore opportunities around the deployment of a 40-strong fleet of Xe-100 Generation IV Advanced Reactors in the UK, based on High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactor technology.
X-energy and Cavendish Nuclear will tap into Sheffield Forgemasters’ decades of experience in the development of nuclear forgings and castings with plans to build up to 40 Xe-100s across the country as the UK looks towards nuclear as a zero-carbon energy source.
Dominic Ashmore, Head of Strategy and Business Development – Clean Energy at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “Following the key step forward recently made by Great British Nuclear to boost UK nuclear power generation through Small Modular Reactor development, GBN is also developing a route to market for other technologies, including advanced nuclear and a consultation will be published this autumn.
“The UK’s civil nuclear development is part of our business strategy and this MOU is the latest in a line of agreements that we have signed with a number of SMR companies looking to deploy in the UK market.
“Our work with X-Energy and Cavendish Nuclear will provide specialist engineering services, support and components including forgings, to the UK Xe-100 deployment programme.
“Sheffield Forgemasters will undertake a detailed review of the Xe-100 forgings and look to facilitate more definitive cost estimates and production plans.”
The Xe-100 reactor is capable of producing high temperature heat and steam for clean industrial applications as well as electricity. The MoU is the latest step in building up a UK supply chain to ensure the benefits of the programme flow to British companies.
Carol Tansley, Vice President, UK New Build Projects at X-energy said: “Our technology will be the first small modular reactor operational in the US and we want to build on that progress by moving forward quickly with our UK programme. In delivering that fleet we want to maximise the involvement of the UK supply chain as part of our target to achieve 80% by value UK content, and the MoU with a company with the experience and capabilities of Sheffield Forgemasters is a crucial step in that journey.
“A UK fleet of 40 reactors would not only see us play a crucial role in delivering clean electricity and industrial decarbonisation but also bring huge opportunities for companies right across the UK. The MoU, along with our partnership with Cavendish Nuclear and our recent appointment of Howden, shows how we are determined to ensure those benefits are realised by the UK’s world-leading supply chain.”
Mick Gornall, MD of Cavendish Nuclear said: “We are really excited to bring the capability of Sheffield Forgemasters into the plans for UK manufacture and supply in support of Xe-100 deployment.”
