Property developer purchases brownfield sites from Bradford Council for affordable homes
Property developer Breck Homes has completed the unconditional purchase of two brownfield sites in Bradford for the construction of 52 affordable homes.
The parcels of land, both in the West Bowling area of the city, have been purchased from Bradford Council and will be the company’s first housing developments in Yorkshire.
One site is a former car park on Flockton Road, which will be developed into 20 affordable houses. The other is a former Bradford Council office on Brompton Avenue which will be developed for 32 houses.
Planning permission is expected to be submitted at the end of February and the schemes will feature a combination of shared ownership and homes for affordable rent. Breck is currently in discussion with a number of housing association partners to acquire and manage the units on completion.
The developments are expected to commence build mid-2026 subject to planning approval.
Andy Garnett, director, Breck, said: “Our strong reputation for the consistent delivery of high-quality affordable homes has driven our growth in the past five years and we are currently working with registered providers to progress sites in areas including Lancashire, Cheshire and Merseyside.
“West Yorkshire has ambitious plans to deliver 38,000 new homes over the next 15 years to meet its growing need. The redevelopment of brownfield sites for affordable homes is an important part of this strategy and is also a key part of Breck’s approach to development.
“We have worked closely with the council to secure the land quickly using the company’s cash reserves and we’re looking forward to continuing this relationship through the planning and development process.”
In addition to completing the purchase of the two Bradford sites, Breck has agreed heads of terms on a further Yorkshire site, which is local authority allocated housing land. Breck plans to submit proposals for a further 53 new homes on this site.
The Lancashire-headquartered company is also in advanced discussions on a commercial premises in Leeds to support its Yorkshire expansion, which it expects to be operational this year.
West Yorkshire Mayor launches million-pound challenge for young people and businesses with big ideas
Two new competitions aim to galvanise young people and businesses from across West Yorkshire to develop cutting-edge solutions to local problems.
The West Yorkshire Mayor’s Big Ideas Challenge offers local businesses the chance to receive grants of between £20,000 and £100,000, to develop their ideas into tangible innovations that can positively impact local communities.
The Challenge will also see young entrepreneurs compete for awards of up to £600, to develop their innovative ideas in a way that could benefit other young people in the region.
The two competitions together make up the £1.5 million Challenge, which aims to stimulate entrepreneurship among young people in the region, while supporting businesses to develop lifechanging solutions to local health inequalities.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “West Yorkshire is a region of grafters and innovators, where the answers to global problems have been found in local solutions.
“With this million-pound challenge, we’re galvanising and empowering our young people and businesses to convert their bright ideas into happier and healthier communities.
“By nurturing the passion of our young people and the entrepreneurship of our businesses, we’ll put more money in people’s pockets, create well-paid jobs and build a stronger, brighter region.”
The £1 million business competition is open to small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) in the region that have the power to drive improvements to health and wellbeing. Three winning firms will be supported with £100,000 each, to help bring their innovative solutions to market.
They will be chosen from a group of 20 finalists, each of which will receive £20,000 alongside wrap-around support to develop their solutions, including networking opportunities and free membership of Nexus, the research and development hub based at the University of Leeds.
Successful businesses could include a food company reducing distances to fresh ingredients; a community centre providing physical or mental health services; a transport company creating accessible journeys for elderly passengers; or a socially-conscious housing developer creating green and walkable spaces.
Firms will be assessed on the strength of their ideas, with scores for impact, inclusion and innovation, by independent judges selected by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and the UK’s challenge prize expert, Challenge Works.
A part of Nesta, Challenge Works is a leader in the design and delivery of high-impact challenge prizes that incentivise cutting-edge innovation for social good. Over the past ten years, it has designed and delivered more than 100 prizes.
Entries to the business competition close 7 May 2025, with finalists announced in the Summer, and winners announced March 2026.
Kathy Nothstine, Director of Cities and Societies, Challenge Works, said: “With large parts of Leeds and Bradford among the most deprived in Britain, there is an urgent need to accelerate innovation around health inequality in West Yorkshire.
“Enabling place-based innovation is essential to shaping the future and driving change. The Mayor’s big ideas challenge will do just this – providing enormous opportunity for those organisations closest to the issue to make a difference in the community.
“We hope to see a range of businesses across different sectors mobilise their networks and talent in order to accelerate innovative solutions that have tangible impact.”
Mandy Ridyard, Business Advisor to the Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Our diverse businesses form the bedrock of our £66 billion West Yorkshire economy, and their growth is essential to the success of our region, and the success of the UK’s growth mission.
“Ensuring that our small and medium-sized firms have access to the finance they need to innovate is an essential part of our Local Growth Plan.
“This challenge is a call to all of the innovative organisations in our region, which are essential to an inclusive, growing economy. We cannot wait to see the brightest ideas from our dynamic West Yorkshire businesses!”
The competition for young people, delivered in partnership with design specialists TPXimpact, will see 16-26 year olds develop their ideas and passion projects into solutions that could benefit other young people in the region.
With prizes of up to £600 per individual or team, the young entrepreneurs will be taken on a learning journey, receiving research, design and problem-solving skills, and meeting other likeminded young people who want to effect positive social change.
They will then have the opportunity to pitch their ideas, imagining them as real-world solutions for other young people in the region to benefit from.
The Mayor is encouraging people aged 16-26 in the region to apply, either individually or as part of a two- or three-person team, online. The programme is free, with applications closing on 10 April 2025.
Lizzie Insall, Senior Partner at TPXimpact, said: “We are constantly motivated and inspired by the potential of young people. With the right support, we know that young people can unlock ideas and solutions to some of the greatest challenges we face.
“So we are thrilled to be working alongside the Combined Authority team to deliver this innovative programme that will enable our region’s young people to develop research, design and problem solving skills and apply them to a local issue they feel so passionately about.”
Doncaster’s airport gets financial boost to progress re-opening
Doncaster’s airport is this week being supported by £20m to press ahead with its planned mobilisation programme.
City of Doncaster Council’s Cabinet has approved a £10m funding package to continue with the plan of re-opening the former Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) in Spring 2026. South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has also matched that figure.
The council’s cabinet heard yesterday (February 12) in a report the progress made to date on the programme to reopen the site which closed in 2022.
Mayor Ros Jones said: “Re-opening our airport is my number one priority, I am vigorously pursuing the reopening of our airport and despite the challenging timeline, our plan is to see our airport open in Spring 2026.
“The financial package will enable critical mobilisation works to continue and drive forward momentum in our drive to reopen the airport given its strategic importance to Doncaster, South Yorkshire and the North. I would like to thank South Yorkshire leaders for their continued support of our airport with their further funding approval.
“The residents and businesses of Doncaster are behind us, proven by the over 130,000 people who signed a petition. This is the people’s airport and I will do all I can to ensure it drives forward economic success, new jobs, growth and prosperity.”
The council’s £10m funding proposal is one off funding from the priorities revenue budget, coupled with £10m proposed by SYMCA for revenue costs which was approved on Tuesday. (February 11).
The council funding would help support work to secure the airport’s suspended airspace and essential work needed to meet the necessary Civil Aviation Authority’s certification standards. The SYMCA funding in the form of a grant will support costs associated with managing the site.
The cabinet report also sets out the arrangements and scope of FlyDoncaster Ltd, a wholly-owned council company, initiated last year to operate the airport alongside strategic partners Munich Airport International GmbH (MAI), which will provide operational and management services, and FP Airports Ltd, aviation sector specialists in the UK.
An outline business case on the financial and economic benefits of reopening the airport was approved by SYMCA last February. A Full Business Case (FBC) has been submitted which is due for determination in the summer.
The FBC highlights the scale of economic growth potential should the opportunity be realised: over 5,000 gross direct jobs by 2050; GVA uplift of £5bn (cumulatively by 2050); gross welfare benefits (cumulatively by 2050) of £2bn; a project benefit cost ratio of 9:1; and a region in the vanguard of the next technological revolution, building on core regional capabilities, and reconnected by air to global markets.
UK manufacturers on edge over potential US tariffs
A new survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Insights Unit highlights growing concerns among UK businesses about potential US tariffs. The research, conducted between January 20 and February 7, surveyed over 1,000 firms, including more than 250 manufacturing exporters.
While the US had imposed tariffs on Chinese goods and announced plans for levies on Canada and Mexico during this period, no new charges had been placed on UK imports. Despite this, 10% of all businesses surveyed believe US tariffs would have a significant impact, with around 22% expecting a slight impact. Among manufacturing exporters—the most vulnerable sector—28% anticipate significant disruptions, while 34% foresee a minor effect.
Trade policy experts warn that the global tariff landscape is shifting, requiring a measured response from UK policymakers. With tariff quotas set to expire in a month, businesses are urging the government to adopt a flexible approach while avoiding unnecessary retaliatory measures.
Despite the uncertainty, analysts point to the UK’s strong trade relationship with the US, particularly in services, which remain unaffected by tariffs. However, businesses could face broader economic disruptions if global trade tensions escalate. Companies are advised to monitor shifting trade patterns, particularly in sectors like textiles and footwear, and remain vigilant against unfair trading practices.
Sheffield manufacturer of energy saving technologies falls into administration
GWE Group Ltd, the Sheffield-headquartered voltage optimiser manufacturer, has fallen into administration.
Formed in 1994, the business, which rebranded to ZERON in 2024, offers a range of energy saving technologies trusted by major players such as Kellogg’s, IKEA, ASDA and Amazon.
GWE Group Ltd had been experiencing significant cash flow issues, with the company making a loss on a monthly basis. While the firm had been marketed for sale, attracting various interested parties, a deal was not achieved.
The company has ceased to trade with 18 staff being made redundant.
Ryan Holdsworth and Danielle Shore from Leonard Curtis were appointed as Joint Administrators of GWE Group Ltd on 30 January 2025.
Ryan Holdsworth said: “GWE Group Ltd was experiencing significant cash flow issues in the lead up to administration. This was a combination of non-payment by one of its debtors, and orders not materialising – having been promised at the end of the year. The Company was making a loss on a monthly basis, which was not sustainable.”
He added: “The business was marketed for sale by external agents, which did attract various interested parties, but no sale was concluded. As a result, the Company has ceased to trade with all 18 staff unfortunately being made redundant.
“A sale of the Company’s assets is being undertaken by our agents BPI Asset Management.”
Amazon expands UK apprenticeship program with 1,000 new roles in 2025
Amazon is rolling out more than 1,000 new apprenticeships across the UK in 2025, reinforcing its push to develop in-house talent across engineering, cyber security, HR, and marketing. The initiative is part of the company’s long-term strategy to upskill workers and strengthen its operational workforce. A Doncaster-based family highlights the program’s impact, with four members now working in Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
Since 2013, Amazon has trained over 6,000 apprentices and currently employs 2,000 in the program. It has also invested £11 million since 2021 to fund over 1,000 apprenticeships for small businesses and the public sector.
Apprentices earn between £28,000 and £30,000 annually, with additional benefits such as private medical insurance and a company pension. The program provides a pathway for employees to advance into specialised roles within the company’s logistics and tech-driven operations.
UK economy grows, beating expectations
Easing the risk of a recession, the UK’s economy saw fractional growth in the final quarter of 2024.
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP (gross domestic product), a key measure of economy growth, is estimated to have risen by 0.1% in the October to December period, following no growth in the previous quarter. It beats expectations of a contraction of -0.1%.
Across key sectors, growth in services (0.2%) and construction (0.5%) output led the way, while production fell by 0.8%.
Monthly data, meanwhile, shows GDP expanded 0.4% in December, above expectations of 0.1%, largely because of growth in the service sector.
Responding to the figures, Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “News that there was a modest up-tick in growth in the weeks running up to Christmas is far preferable to the alternative but flat growth registered across the final quarter will not come as a surprise to many small firms.
“The fall in production in the last quarter shows that evidence of a feel-good factor from the end of last year is sadly lacking, with members telling us they are finding trading conditions difficult, to say the least.
“With tax changes coming up in April, and the looming Employment Rights Bill which is set to put a big dampener on small businesses’ willingness to take on staff, any economic uplift that has been carried over from last year will be a help, but more must be done to offset turbulence.
“The recent cut in the base rate is a good sign, but will not by itself be enough to give small businesses the confidence they need to choose to invest in their operations, which is what is needed for long-term, substantial and sustainable growth in GDP.
“The Government has loudly stated its commitment to growth, which we agree with, but we need to see words turned into actions in the shortest possible timeframe, so that this positive momentum can snowball into a virtuous circle of investment, productivity gains, and greater prosperity in every part of the UK.”
Hull recruitment agency acquired by growing group
Nicholas Associates Group has acquired Hull-based recruitment agency Smart Temporary Solutions Limited.
David Kitney, Owner of Smart Temporary Solutions Limited, said: “After nearly five successful years building and leading Smart Temporary Solutions, the time has come for me to step away from the business and pass over the reins. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved – establishing a strong reputation for delivering a great service and operational excellence in blue-collar recruitment.
“Joining forces with Nicholas Associates Group ensures that Smart’s clients, candidates, and employees will continue to thrive under the leadership of a well-respected, national organisation. I leave the business in great hands, which was important to me and look forward to seeing its continued success as part of NA Group.”
Paul Smith, CEO of Nicholas Associates Group, said: “Smart Temporary Solutions has developed an outstanding reputation in the blue-collar recruitment market, and their innovative approach aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. This acquisition enables us to expand our reach, enhance our service offering, and continue providing best-in-class talent solutions. We are excited to welcome the Smart team into the NA Group family and look forward to working together to drive further success.”
Sheffield firm secures planning permission for more than 100 homes in Maidstone
Henry Boot land promotion and planning business, Hallam Land has secured outline planning permission on appeal for 112 homes on a freehold site in Yalding, Maidstone, Kent.
Hallam acquired the 23 acre site in 2018, recognising its potential in a high demand housing area. The site was later included in the Emerging Local Plan, and in November 2023, Hallam submitted an outline planning application in line with this allocation.
Despite Maidstone Borough Council adopting its Local Plan (2021 – 2038) in March 2024, it did not make a decision on the application. Hallam appealed in May 2024 on the basis of non-determination and successfully secured approval in December 2024.
The planning consent for the site includes 112 homes (40% of which are affordable), new landscaping, habitat creation, and publicly accessible green infrastructure, with over 20% Biodiversity Net Gain calculated for surrounding habitats.
Plans to build a ‘stronger economy and stronger communities’ outlined in NE Lincs
The new Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall and Market scheme and supporting other development is central to the council’s commitment to growing a stronger economy.
Members of North East Lincolnshire Council’s cabinet have unanimously supported the authority’s proposed Budget, Finance and Business Plan for the financial year starting on April 1, 2025.
This plan will now progress to next week’s Full Council meeting for discussion and vote.
A key detail recommended and approved at last night’s cabinet meeting was a core Council Tax increase of 1.98% and the application of a 2% Adult Social Care precept.
The overall proposed plan reflects the aims and objects set out in the new Council Plan, which will come into effect from April 1. This puts a ‘Stronger Economy’ and ‘Stronger Communities’ at the heart of the authority’s vision.
Priorities to achieving this vision are outlined and include:
- The continued transformation of Children’s Services. The plan details how current work is having a ‘positive impact on outcomes for our children and young people, as well as supporting financial sustainability’.
- Again, with a focus on transformation, attention will be put on Adult Social Care where innovative solutions will be explored. This will help to meet an increase in demand and complexity of care.
- Continuing with a ‘commercial approach’ to grow a strong and sustainable economy. It details how major investments, such as the redevelopment of Freshney Place, are progressing and will support the borough at a time of economic challenge.
- A pledge to ensure the capital programme is reviewed regularly to ensure schemes remain viable. This approach, adds the report, will help ensure plans remain ‘affordable, sustainable and prudent’.
