College receives £600k to train skilled agri-food workforce

Tess Egginton
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College receives £600k to train skilled agri-food workforce
Students at Riseholme College are to benefit from enhanced agriculture and horticulture facilities and equipment, thanks to funding from Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution deal. Riseholme, based on the outskirts of Lincoln, will receive £600,000 of investment for new skills training infrastructure as a result of the deal agreed with the government last year for Greater Lincolnshire to get a new combined authority headed up by an elected mayor. Land-based college Riseholme will invest in a new state-of-the-art Centre for Plant and Soil Science with the funding. It will be created by expanding the current practical learning space at Riseholme Park and creating a specialist horticulture laboratory and teaching area at the college’s Showground Campus, next to Lincolnshire Showground. The centre will support the delivery of a range of qualifications across further education, higher education, apprenticeships and short and part-time courses in agriculture and horticulture. A range of industry-standard agricultural equipment, including a telehandler, tractor and loader and a portable weighbridge platform will be purchased with the funding as well. The new equipment will also include a crop sprayer and virtual welding simulator. Beth Curtis, vice principal at Riseholme College, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding, which will directly benefit our students by giving them access to cutting-edge facilities and industry-standard equipment. “This funding is not just about new resources – it represents a significant step forward in our mission to prepare learners for successful and meaningful careers in the ever-evolving fields of agriculture and horticulture. “It is essential that our students develop the hands-on skills, knowledge and adaptability that employers are looking for both now and in the future. “We’re incredibly grateful for this recognition of the work we do and the role Riseholme College plays in shaping the future of the agri-food sector. “It reinforces our commitment to excellence in education and training, and our ongoing dedication to nurturing the next generation of skilled, innovative and work-ready professionals who will drive these crucial industries forward.” Riseholme is one of six educational bodies to receive a share of £2.5m under the devolution deal.

Yorkshire’s DJH acquires historic Midlands accountancy practice

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Yorkshire’s DJH acquires historic Midlands accountancy practice
DJH has added an historic accountancy practice to its ranks. The group, which has major regional offices in Huddersfield, Leeds and Sheffield, has acquired Nicklin, a business that has been delivering financial and accountancy services to the West Midlands for more than 90 years. The partnership strengthens DJH’s presence in the region and builds on existing offices in Stoke-on-Trent and Walsall, with a 230-strong team now in position to support SMEs, owner-managed businesses and high-net-worth individuals. DJH said in a statement: “There are a lot of opportunities for us in the West Midlands and this deal gives us a unique opportunity to partner with one of the area’s most respected and longest standing firms. “Both organisations thrive on delivering a personalised service that grows with the client, and this is something we want to build on, whilst offering access to a wider range of expertise. “Continuity is extremely important to us. That’s why we’re delighted members of the Nicklin senior leadership team have agreed to stay on to write the next chapter in its story.” Mark Howell, Managing Director of Nicklin, said: “This is a great move for our team and our clients, who will now have access to the wider range of services and resources DJH offer. “We’ve been serving the area for many decades and we’re fiercely passionate about giving companies, owners and GP surgeries transparent financial support to help them grow and create jobs across the region.” He concluded: “Joining DJH gives us the autonomy to continue doing what we do best, with the benefit of additional capacity and access to experts in corporate finance, commercial funding, HR and private client planning, such as wills and probates. “There is also the additional infrastructure that comes with being part of a group. I’m excited that having more operational support will release our team of 38 accountancy experts to spend even more time with our clients.”

Engineering construction workforce in Yorkshire and Humber to grow by almost 40%

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Engineering construction workforce in Yorkshire and Humber to grow by almost 40%
New research reveals that the engineering construction industry (ECI) workforce in Yorkshire and the Humber could increase by 39% in the next five years. The ECI plays a crucial role in the UK meeting its net zero ambitions, spanning sectors that focus on the construction, maintenance and decommissioning of heavy industry, including oil and gas, nuclear, power generation, renewables, chemicals, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen and water treatment. The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board’s (ECITB) Labour Forecasting Tool (LFT) provides insights into workforce numbers across regions and sectors, predicting trends and potential future demand for workers in the industry. The tool, which was first launched in November 2023, has been updated using findings from the ECITB 2024 Workforce Census and publicly stated timescales on 3,000 active and future ECI projects across Great Britain. The ECITB’s latest forecast states that the size of the ECI workforce in Yorkshire and the Humber could grow by more than 2,300 by 2030, with mechanical fitters, pipefitters and scaffolders among the roles most in demand. The overall picture of future labour needs in Britain highlights that the size of the ECI workforce could total more than 135,000 workers in five years’ time to meet demand, an increase of 19% on the current number of workers in industry. The tool previously stated that demand across industry would peak in 2028, but this has now shifted to 2030 due to delays in some projects coinciding with other planned activity, as well as a potential wave of retirements in key roles.

Atlantic rowers swap oars for golf clubs at £31,500 Yorkshire charity fundraiser

Tess Egginton
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Atlantic rowers swap oars for golf clubs at £31,500 Yorkshire charity fundraiser
David Knaggs and Richard Larking, the pair of Yorkshire lawyers who will be embarking on the arduous 3,000-mile World’s Toughest Row across the Atlantic in December this year, took to the greens last week to host a charity golf day to raise funds for their nominated Yorkshire charities, Maggie’s Home of Cancer Care and Friends of Alfie Martin. Held at Alwoodley Golf Club, the pair were joined by 22 teams of four who took part in the tournament followed by a dinner. The event raised more than £31,500 for the two Yorkshire charities and is a big step in reaching their fundraising target of £150,000. David said: “Richard and I met on the first tee at Alwoodley in 2011 and 14 years later we are taking on the World’s Toughest Row. We have had amazing support from Alwoodley Golf Club and all its members, and we owe thanks to everyone who made our golf day such a success and the weather gods who looked down on us with a fine day despite the pessimistic forecast.” Richard added: “Both our fundraising and our training have been going well and we’re confident that we’ll be as well prepared as we possibly can be when we set off to row our seven-metre boat ‘Brizo’ from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in just over six months time. “By then, David and I will be aged 60 and 59, making us two of the oldest participants, but as we face the hazards of the journey from 40-foot waves to shipping traffic, sleep deprivation and potential marlin strikes, we’ll be calling on Yorkshire grit to get us to the finish line.” In addition to headline sponsor, Begbies Traynor, the pair have also secured sponsorship from leading regional and local businesses over the last 12 months, with 11 other corporate supporters including Ginetta; Happy Drains; Optivet Referrals; Cellular Pathology Services; Macintosh James & Partners Wealth Management; El Gato Negro Tapas; Middleton Law; Richard Fahey Racing; Springfield Healthcare; Waterer’s Services Limited; Walker Morris and SBFM Ltd. Julian Pitts, regional managing partner for Begbies Traynor’s 10 offices across Yorkshire, Humberside and the North East, said: “It’s inspiring to see the way David and Richard are embracing this challenge. “I have no doubt that the determination and enthusiasm they display on the golf course will be matched by their endeavours when crossing the Atlantic. We hope many other sponsors and supporters join us in helping them raise money for the work of these vital Yorkshire charities.” As well as the Alwoodley Golf Day, a black-tie Midsummer Night ball will be taking place at the Pavilions, Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, on 21 June. Further opportunities to support the pair in their fundraising can be found at  www.greens2blue.co.uk

Startup survival rates boost Leeds business outlook

April Lara
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Startup survival rates boost Leeds business outlook

Leeds has emerged as one of the UK’s most resilient cities for new businesses, ranking third nationally for startup survival over five years, according to new research by finance platform Pheabs.

The study found that 48% of startups in Leeds remain operational after five years, which is significantly higher than the national average of 39–41%. The city trails only Newcastle (52%) and Rutland (50%) in the rankings.

Pheabs evaluated key business metrics such as average annual income, business density, and sectoral spread to determine where startups are most likely to succeed. Leeds’ strong performance is attributed to its accessible transport links, moderate setup costs, and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

With a population exceeding 800,000, Leeds offers scalable potential for SMEs compared to smaller urban centres. Its economic ties across West and South Yorkshire, connecting cities like York, Harrogate, Sheffield, and Bradford, further strengthen the regional business environment.

Other high-performing areas include York (47%), Surrey (44%), Bristol (44%), and Lancashire (41%). The report highlights the broader challenge of SME sustainability across the UK, where only half of startups typically survive past their fifth year, underlining the pressure from rising labour and operational costs.

AI growth zone bid targets £85bn boost for North Yorkshire

April Lara
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AI growth zone bid targets £85bn boost for North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Combined Authority has submitted a proposal to become one of the UK’s five designated Artificial Intelligence (AI) Growth Zones, projecting an £85 billion economic uplift for the region if successful.

The joint bid, backed by North Yorkshire Council, Drax Power Station, the University of York, and other regional partners, positions the area as a hub for AI innovation across key sectors including agriculture, life sciences, clean energy, creative industries, and rail.

Central to the proposal is the creation of a new AI and Clean Energy campus at Drax Power Station, which would explore bio-energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) as a route to carbon-negative power generation. The initiative is also expected to help safeguard 7,000 jobs, with 3,500 of those in northern England.

The submission estimates that North Yorkshire could capture up to 15% of the UK’s projected AI economic growth by 2035, aligning with national ambitions to integrate AI technologies across industries and enhance digital inclusion.

An official announcement on the AI Growth Zones is expected on 11 June as part of the government’s Comprehensive Spending Review.

Offsite prefabrication specialist gains five times more space with Leeds move

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Offsite prefabrication specialist gains five times more space with Leeds move
Mileway, the last mile logistics real estate company, has signed a 50,000 sq ft lease with Prefabricated Solutions, specialists in offsite prefabrication for faster, safer building services installation, at Norquest Industrial Estate in Leeds.
Unit 20 is a modern, self-contained warehouse featuring five ground-level roller shutters across two elevations, 6.2-metre eaves height, LED lighting, ground floor offices, parking, and a large secure yard. As a leader in BIM-driven (Building Information Modelling) modular building service units, Prefabricated Solutions’ new premises will enable the business to meet growing demand while enhancing operational efficiency. Its new headquarters enables the centralisation of operations, increased production capacity, and faster project delivery. Limited space at its previous site meant the company could handle only one large project at a time, often relying on multiple off-site storage locations. With five times more space now available, it can manage several major projects at once while keeping inventory securely stored on-site. Andrew Jones, Mileway managing director UK & Ireland, said: “This lease highlights the critical importance of high-quality commercial space in driving innovation, operational efficiency, and growth in the logistics and manufacturing sectors. We’re pleased to welcome Prefabricated Solutions to Norquest Industrial Estate as it enters its next phase of expansion.” Andrew Ormond, Prefabricated Solutions director, said: “We now have the space to grow with efficiency and ease, and can manage multiple projects at once, store everything on-site, and operate far more effectively than before. Thanks to Mileway for the very fast turnaround times.”
 
 

Irwin Mitchell strengthens immigration team with acquisition

Tess Egginton
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Irwin Mitchell strengthens immigration team with acquisition
Sheffield-headquartered Irwin Mitchell has strengthened its private client immigration team with the strategic acquisition of the immigration team and ongoing work of boutique firm Carter Thomas. The Carter Thomas team bring a wealth of specialist expertise, particularly in the education, sports, technology, and corporate compliance sectors. Following the deal Irwin Mitchell will have immigration specialists working in Sheffield, London, Newcastle and Manchester enhancing its established national footprint. Seven fee earners will transition to Irwin Mitchell’s growing immigration team led by partner and national head Mandeep Khroud. Nichola Carter, founder of Carter Thomas, will join Irwin Mitchell’s immigration team as a partner. Nichola said: “We’ve built a reputation for delivering straightforward, expert advice quickly and clearly. Joining Irwin Mitchell gives us access to a full suite of legal services, enabling us to support our clients even more comprehensively. We’re excited to be part of such a forward-thinking and dynamic team.” Mandeep Khroud, partner and head of immigration at Irwin Mitchell, said: “This is a fantastic addition to our team. Our new colleagues bring excellent expertise and deep sector specialisms that perfectly complement our existing strengths. Together, we’re establishing ourselves as a powerhouse in UK Immigration law.”

Council seeks new housing partner for historic Huddersfield site

April Lara
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Council seeks new housing partner for historic Huddersfield site

Kirklees Council is seeking a new development partner for the Grade II* listed Estate Buildings in Huddersfield, following the withdrawal of the original housing provider, Thirteen Group, which cited sector risks.

The site, located near the George Hotel and railway station, had previously secured £1.25m in government funding to support enabling works for a planned social housing scheme. The withdrawal of Thirteen Group leaves the council exploring alternative options to repurpose the building, which dates back to the late 1800s and features protected interiors, including stained glass, carved fireplaces, and decorative wood panelling.

The council acknowledges that redevelopment will be complex and costly due to the building’s listed status, but intends to use the remaining grant funding to reduce upfront costs and attract a developer. Under the proposed model, a selected partner would enter into a building lease agreement and acquire the freehold upon project completion.

The council estimates that the redevelopment could generate up to £95,000 in annual council tax and reduce ongoing maintenance costs, currently exceeding £29,000 per year.

A cabinet decision is expected on Tuesday. If no viable contract is in place by 31 March 2028, the council risks having to repay the £1.25m grant.

Business decision-makers ‘paralysed’ by volatile risk landscape warns report

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Business decision-makers ‘paralysed’ by volatile risk landscape warns report
Business decision-makers are becoming ‘paralysed’ by constant crisis and their excessive caution is limiting growth opportunities, a new report from accountancy and business advisory firm BDO has warned. In total, 84% of international business leaders surveyed as part of BDO’s annual Global Risk Landscape Report 2025 said the global risk landscape is now, more than ever, defined by crisis. In response, executives are taking a much more defensive approach, with more than two thirds (69%) saying their companies are either ‘risk averse’ or ‘risk minimising’, a rise from 61% last year. Only 7% of executives said their risk management was ‘very proactive’, down from 19% in 2024 and 29% 2023. The report found that top six risks keeping business leaders up at night were regulatory risk, concerns over supply chains, recruiting and retaining talent, geopolitical tensions, environmental issues and cybercrime. While regulators are demanding ever-more information about risks, some executives (39%) agreed that this had a positive impact in helping to make companies safer, but a larger proportion (57%) said regulatory demands were only ‘somewhat’ helpful in reducing company risk profiles. However, CEOs surveyed were critical of compliance overspend, suggesting that current risk management strategies are failing to deliver value. Alisa Voznaya, partner and head of risk consulting at BDO, said: “The risk landscape for businesses has been in flux for more than a decade and shows no sign of stabilising. “Faced with this relentless volatility, some business leaders are being too hesitant to take decisions and paralysed by the fear of what could go wrong. But this safety-first approach means businesses are missing out on opportunities and limiting their growth prospects. “Part of the problem is that businesses are increasingly taking a compliance-led approach to risk, with a box-ticking mentality distracting from the management of actual risks. “Many would do well to adopt a more proactive approach, engaging in regular scenario planning and anticipating the things that could go wrong so they can start to identify opportunities. Businesses shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that there can be competitive gains to be made from responding positively to challenging circumstances.”
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