Step forward for plans doubling Bradford city centre

Tess Egginton
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Step forward for plans doubling Bradford city centre
Plans to create a new district in Bradford which will double the size of the city centre have taken a step forward. As part of its Bradford Showcase event, which is running alongside this year’s UKREiiF regeneration forum, Bradford Council announced that global consultancy Arup has been commissioned to create the master plan for the future of Southern Gateway. The Southern Gateway has been earmarked as one of the biggest regeneration sites in the UK, powered by £4.5bn in transport upgrades, including Mass Transit and a new Bradford rail station. This is a transformational opportunity bringing with it huge economic and social benefits. The inner-city Southern Gateway site, with borders along Manchester Road and Leeds Road, will offer high-quality, high-density office, commercial and residential developments alongside new public realm and green spaces. The master plan, which is expected to be created over 12 months, will deliver specific proposals, taking into account the requirements of the development, as well as respecting the city’s heritage and generating landscape enhancements. Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will drive growth for the district, strengthen supply chains, boost productivity and attract private investment, ensuring Bradford thrives in a competitive landscape. “The master plan will create a tangible, detailed proposal from street level right the way up to how the new district will work within the city as a whole, and it will be key in terms of attracting future investment. “Bradford is the largest city without direct access to the major north-south rail lines. A new ‘through’ rail station in the Southern Gateway is critical to delivering the social and economic benefits of faster travel between regional economic hubs and also to London. “It will unlock opportunities for young people, with faster, easier access to jobs, apprenticeships, and universities. It means more choices, more freedom, and clearer paths to success – connecting young people to the skills, careers, and futures they deserve.” Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said: “Bradford’s Southern Gateway represents one of the biggest and most exciting regeneration opportunities in the UK. “With the potential for 5,000 new homes, alongside a new through station and new tram line to Leeds, these plans will grow our economy and ensure our region can prosper for years to come. “Working with Arup and Bradford Council, we can put more money in people’s pockets, and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.” Associate director at Arup, Niall Bourke said: “The Southern Gateway Masterplan reflects the city of Bradford’s vision and commitment to creating an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future. “Building on the progress already made, Arup will work closely with the Council, local stakeholders and communities to develop a plan that reflects Bradford’s heritage and identity while enabling future growth through investment in infrastructure and public space. “With the future rail station and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s mass transit plans providing momentum, the masterplan will set out a clear path for new homes, jobs, cultural opportunities and improved connectivity, strengthening the case for further investment and supporting the long-term transformation of the city and wider region.” Proposals have been agreed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for the Mass Transit tram system running between Leeds and Bradford. It is hoped the early construction stage of the project will begin in 2028. Phase one would include two lines serving Leeds and Bradford and the Bradford Line would run from Leeds city centre to Bradford city centre, also linking Bradford Forster Square with the planned new Bradford rail station. The ambition is for six trains an hour to run to Leeds, with a journey time as short as 12 minutes, with a 30-minute journey time to Manchester. The project is a major part of the next phase of Bradford’s regeneration, which so far has seen the delivery of the Broadway shopping centre, a £45m pedestrianisation scheme funded through the Transforming Cities Fund, One City Park, Bradford Live entertainment venue, and Darley St Market (which now frees up land for the City Village development) as well as Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture 2025.

UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

April Lara
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UK explores hydrogen blending for gas supply decarbonisation

The UK Government is actively considering introducing hydrogen blending into the national gas network as part of wider decarbonisation efforts. According to energy minister Michael Shanks, a formal decision is expected shortly following an evidence-gathering phase assessing the impact on consumers and infrastructure.

Blending up to 20% hydrogen with natural gas is technically feasible with most existing boilers and appliances in domestic and commercial settings. Gas network operators have indicated that current infrastructure could handle such a mix without significant modifications, offering a transitional path toward lower-carbon heating.

Scotland is leading several green hydrogen production projects to leverage the country’s renewable energy capacity. Recent developments include a large-scale hydrogen facility approved in Kintore, Aberdeenshire, and discussions around the Grangemouth industrial site as a potential hydrogen hub.

While hydrogen presents a cleaner alternative to natural gas, its lower energy density requires greater volumes to produce the same heat output. This raises ongoing questions about the viability of a 100% hydrogen gas grid for domestic use.

University of Sheffield reveals 100-acre Runway Park development

Tess Egginton
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University of Sheffield reveals 100-acre Runway Park development

A University of Sheffield development designed to attract investment, create high-quality jobs and accelerate economic growth has been launched to industry.

Runway Park, the evolution of the University of Sheffield’s Innovation District, is a 100-acre development that links the University’s world-class research with the real-world challenges faced by a wide range of businesses, from growing companies to household name multinationals.

The development is located on land already owned by the University of Sheffield, on the site of the former Sheffield City Airport. This surrounding area is already home to companies including Boeing, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, McLaren Automotive and others harnessing the University’s research and development facilities and collaborating with its researchers to advance technology and manufacturing.

The University of Sheffield Innovation District was initially developed in 2015 when Factory 2050, the UK’s first reconfigurable digital factory, was completed. Since then, a host of other specialist University of Sheffield research centres have been established there, including the Translational Energy Research Centre, Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre, Royce Translational Centre, the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre and more.

In 2018, Boeing opened its first European manufacturing site nearby, following almost two decades of collaboration between the company and the University of Sheffield.

Now, the Runway Park development is accelerating efforts to advance the development, translate University research into real-world solutions for industry and build on Sheffield and the wider region’s reputation as a leader in innovation-led growth.

Professor Koen Lamberts, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: “The evolution of the University’s innovation district with the launch of Runway Park marks a significant milestone in our mission to help the region reach its full potential, while making an even stronger contribution to economic growth.

“We have seen the impact of innovation-led growth, with the University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) transforming the Sheffield/Rotherham border into a global hub for advanced manufacturing over the last 20 years. As part of the UK’s first government-backed Investment Zone in South Yorkshire, our vision for Runway Park will build on this considerable momentum.

“We look forward to working with partners to deliver bespoke solutions to industry, catalyse growth opportunities and attract the investment the region needs to continue on a path to prosperity.”

Linda Goodacre, director of estates and facilities at the University of Sheffield, said: “Runway Park reflects our long-term commitment to creating places that are not only fit for the future, but actively help shape it. Designed with flexibility, resilience and sustainability at its core, the site brings together high-performance buildings and green infrastructure to offer exceptional working and collaboration environments for tenants of all sizes.

“From our energy-efficient facilities and on-site renewable energy to acres of biodiverse parkland and walkable green space, Runway Park gives businesses the room – and the responsibility – to grow sustainably.”

United Living boosts water business with Peter Duffy acquisition

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United Living boosts water business with Peter Duffy acquisition
United Living has acquired Peter Duffy Ltd, a civil engineering contractor specialising in water infrastructure. The Wakefield-based business will become part of United Living’s Infrastructure Services division, operating within the expanding water business. Established in 1972, Peter Duffy Ltd is a family-owned business and brings decades of experience delivering major engineering solutions for water networks. Following United Living’s acquisition of water solutions provider AFECO in April 2024, this strategic acquisition of Peter Duffy Ltd marks another major step in the group’s commitment to growing its presence in the UK’s water sector, particularly in wastewater services.
Neil Armstrong, chairman and CEO, United Living Group, said: “The acquisition of Peter Duffy Ltd represents another key milestone in our strategy to become a market leader in wastewater infrastructure. “As the sector enters a period of transformational growth driven by environmental, political, and regulatory pressures, as well as long-standing underinvestment, United Living is well-positioned to be a trusted partner in delivering the sustainable, resilient water infrastructure the UK needs.” Peter Duffy, managing director, Peter Duffy Ltd, said: “At this critical time for the water sector, with increasing demand for reputable service providers, being part of the United Living Group presents an exciting opportunity to further develop Peter Duffy Ltd’s strong brand and service offering. “United Living recognises the value of our long-standing history and is committed to building on this foundation to drive continued growth and excellence.”

NatWest backs Leeds Bradford Airport expansion with £160m package

April Lara
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NatWest backs Leeds Bradford Airport expansion with £160m package

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has secured £160 million in financing from NatWest to support a major terminal expansion project. The project is expected to significantly boost its capacity and infrastructure by 2030.

The financing, arranged by NatWest’s Debt Advisory team, combines refinancing of existing debt with an increased capital expenditure facility. The funding will help advance LBA’s REGEN project, which is focused on modernising the terminal and increasing passenger capacity from 4.3 million to around 6.8 million annually.

LBA, which InfraBridge owns, has shown a strong post-pandemic recovery and is currently operating at 113% of its 2019 passenger traffic. It is the first airport in Northern England to exceed pre-COVID traffic levels. The terminal upgrades are expected to enhance the airport’s commercial offering and passenger experience, positioning it for continued growth in European connectivity.

InfraBridge, a global mid-market infrastructure investor, counts LBA among its key assets in the transport and logistics sector.

Local business rallies to revamp Life Skills Bungalow for special needs school

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Local business rallies to revamp Life Skills Bungalow for special needs school
A group of employees from IntelliAM and 53 North Group (53N) have come together to support a heart-warming cause – transforming a special needs school’s tired and outdated Life Skills Bungalow into a vibrant, welcoming space for pupils. The Life Skills Bungalow at The Willows School, Thurcroft, plays a vital role in helping students with additional needs to learn everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and personal care in a realistic home-like environment. However, years of wear and limited funding had left the facility in desperate need of a makeover. IntelliAM and 53N stepped in to help. They pledged donations of materials, time and money to help breathe new life into the bungalow. Tesco in Dinnington, Wickes at Drakehouse and Carracks in Sheffield have also kindly donated paint, soft furnishings, and appliances. Employees from IntelliAM and 53N have spent the week renovating every room in the bungalow and assembling furniture. Rachael Booth, headteacher at The Willows School, said: “Our students rely on this space to build essential life skills. Thanks to the generosity of our local community, the bungalow will now reflect the dignity and care our pupils deserve.” The school has also set up a JustGiving page to raise money towards the project and for future supplies the school may need. So far, they have raised £500 of their £2,000 target. Jane Robinson, vice president of business development at IntelliAM, added: “At IntelliAM, giving back to our communities is very important to us. Supporting the renovation of the Life Skills Bungalow is more than just a project, it’s an investment in inclusion, opportunity, and a brighter future for everyone involved.” The revamped Life Skills Bungalow is set to reopen next week, with pupils already looking forward to returning to a space that feels more like home.

Lincolnshire investment opportunities worth £3.6bn revealed at UKREiiF

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Lincolnshire investment opportunities worth £3.6bn revealed at UKREiiF
The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA), and newly elected Mayor, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, have revealed major investment opportunities at annual real estate investor forum UKREiiF. As a newly formed Combined County Authority, GLCCA hosted a pavilion, working in partnership across the Greater Lincolnshire inward investment teams and Team Lincolnshire – a public and private sector group of Lincolnshire ambassadors – to put investment opportunities worth £3.6bn to the economy to investors. Dame Andrea announced the investment opportunities for Greater Lincolnshire, which sit across 17 locations and include everything from shovel-ready housing developments to long term multi-sector investment sites. Greater Lincolnshire’s core sectors of agri-food, energy, defence, and ports and logistics all have investment sites on offer. The area also has big growth opportunities in advanced engineering and manufacturing as well as automation and agri-tech. Dame Andrea Jenkyns said: “Greater Lincolnshire is critical to the UK’s economy for its food security, defence capabilities and much more. Not only do I care about giving more to the residents of the area I represent, I also know what a significant contribution we make to the nation. “The GLCCA is already developing a clear plan to deliver with the powers and funding that have been negotiated – but we’re ambitious – and I fully plan to start work on getting more devolved funding and powers for Greater Lincolnshire as soon as possible. “Our area has attractive investment opportunities and enormous potential for growth, and I know by working together with dedicated teams across Greater Lincolnshire, we can maximise the opportunities at UKREiiF to boost growth and investment.” Tony Reynolds, inward investment manager at Lincolnshire County Council and Team Lincolnshire lead, said: “By attending UKREiiF as a collective, we are showcasing what Greater Lincolnshire can offer to a national audience of developers and decision makers within the property and investment industry. The conversations we have at this event can positively impact the economy of Greater Lincolnshire for many years to come. “Greater Lincolnshire has clear investment opportunities and now the GLCCA has been formed and with the strong voice of Dame Andrea as Mayor, we can accelerate growth and be at the front of the queue for discussions with government and future funding opportunities.”

Bradford College joins major low-carbon energy network

April Lara
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Bradford College joins major low-carbon energy network

Bradford College has officially begun connection works to the £70 million Bradford Energy Network, a low-carbon heat network designed to significantly reduce the city’s reliance on fossil fuels. The move is part of a broader decarbonisation strategy supported by a £2.6 million public sector grant administered by Salix, the Department for Energy Security, and Net Zero.

The network, developed by 1Energy, will supply renewable heat through underground pipes to Bradford College, the University of Bradford, and Bradford Courts. It is expected to deliver an 85–90% reduction in emissions for connected buildings. The College alone anticipates an annual carbon saving of over 285 tonnes through its connection to the system, which includes one of the UK’s largest air source heat pumps.

ThermaMech delivers external infrastructure works, including pipe installation across Bradford city centre. The project is also providing skills development opportunities, including student placements, industry masterclasses, and curriculum-linked tours, to support local construction and engineering talent.

The energy plant is scheduled for completion in spring 2026, with heat delivery expected to begin by September of the same year. Phase one of the network aims to cut approximately 8,000 tonnes of carbon emissions city-wide.

Ward Hadaway appoints head of private client

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Ward Hadaway appoints head of private client
Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed experienced private client lawyer Alison Hall as partner and head of private client. Alison re-joins the firm where she started her professional life as a trainee and grew to partner. She brings over 25 years of experience advising individuals, families and business owners on matters including wills, probate, trusts, inheritance tax and succession planning. Her work includes a strong focus on the rural sector, advising farmers and landowners on managing today and planning for the future – as a business and as a family – most recently supporting people as they navigate changes to inheritance tax. Alison Hall said: “Ward Hadaway already has a fantastic technical team and I’m excited to be building on that foundation. There’s a clear opportunity to raise the profile of our private client services and expand our reach across our regions. “What matters most to our clients are trusted, personal relationships and being the person they turn to when it really counts. I’m proud to hold that position for my numerous clients.  And I am excited to lead a strong team, further building on our reputation and impact in this area.” Steven Petrie, managing partner at Ward Hadaway, added: “Alison brings deep sector knowledge, strong leadership and a client-first approach that aligns perfectly with our values. “Her appointment marks an exciting chapter for our private client team and ensures we continue to offer high-quality, relationship-led legal advice across all areas of life and business. As our firm expands into new regions, and further private client opportunities emerge, I know she will play an important role in helping us to achieve our ambitions as a full-service firm.”

Lack of financial education holding young entrepreneurs back

Tess Egginton
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Lack of financial education holding young entrepreneurs back
Young people lack the financial education to equip them for entrepreneurship. Almost one in five young people (19%) in the UK say that better financial education at school and college would help them to set up or grow a business, according to data from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) released to mark National Numeracy Day (21 May). FSB says that the government must now make financial education a compulsory part of the national curriculum in England. Almost a quarter (24%) of young people in the UK struggle with financial knowledge when it comes to starting and running a business, while one in ten (10%) say they struggle with maths, according to FSB’s Generation Entrepreneur research, with Simply Business. FSB is calling for all secondary schools, and primary schools at Key Stage 2, in England, to give effective financial education to equip young people with the skills needed to start their own business. Jennifer Thomas, area manager at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “To thrive in business, the next generation needs strong financial skills—starting from an early age. That’s why it’s time for the Department for Education to make financial education a compulsory part of the school curriculum and ensure teachers are properly equipped with the training and tools to deliver it. “Whether it’s understanding taxes, applying for funding, managing invoices, or handling personal finances alongside a growing venture, young people deserve the knowledge that will give them the confidence to succeed. Embedding financial literacy into education will lay the foundation for future entrepreneurs and a more financially savvy society.”
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