York modular building market leader acquires Telford firm
Modular building market leader Portakabin has acquired healthcare modular buildings specialist Darwin Group.
Combining the modular knowledge, scale and financial strength of York-headquartered Portakabin with the specialist healthcare expertise of Darwin Group will now offer healthcare providers both temporary and permanent building solutions to cover all future clinical and non-clinical requirements.
“This union between two of the most respected offsite modular builders in their respective fields is an exciting development for both Portakabin and Darwin Group. We are both passionate about providing the healthcare sector with the most comprehensive range of market-leading products and services, particularly given the considerable pressures on our healthcare professionals today,” says Dan Ibbetson, CEO of Portakabin.
“An incredibly strong culture runs through the DNA of both businesses, and our commitment to delivering quality healthcare facilities allowing clinicians to enhance patient care makes this a natural fit. We are truly excited to start working together to continue delivering outstanding buildings for our customers,” says Richard Pierce, CEO of Darwin Group.
Darren Boocock, corporate finance partner at Deloitte, said: “We were delighted to be involved in this transaction from its inception to its conclusion. We have worked closely with the Darwin team over the last two and a half years, helping them raise the funding to support their expansion ambitions and assisting them as they built out the management team and explored strategic opportunities for the business.
“Portakabin is a natural home for the team; both businesses share the same cultural values and passion to provide exceptional solutions to the healthcare sector. We wish Richard, Jim and the rest of the management team all the best as they pursue the next stage of their exciting journey.”
Andy Moody, corporate finance director, added: “This deal is a real success story for the Midlands market. Darwin is an exceptional Midlands business with an unrivalled reputation in healthcare. The transaction with Portakabin will enable them to expand their solutions to the healthcare sector.”
Darwin Group is headquartered in Telford, with an organisation of c. 200 employees and a turnover of c. £80m in 2022.
Portakabin was advised by Stephens (Corporate Finance), Addleshaw Goddard (Legal) and KPMG (Financial and Tax).
Darwin Group was advised by Deloitte (Corporate Finance), DLA Piper (Legal) and PwC (Tax).
Go-ahead given to plans for new hotel in Lincoln
Plans for a new hotel in Lincoln, at the corner of Sincil Street and Waterside South, have been approved.
Lincolnshire Co-operative Ltd are behind the outline planning application for the currently vacant site, which is part of the wider Cornhill Quarter redevelopment scheme and close to the recent developments of the new Central Car Park and the City Bus Station.
Formerly a Co-op shopping centre, all existing structures on the site will be demolished. The application also therefore proposes the demolition of the pedestrian footbridge across Melville Street.
The six-storey proposed hotel would host up to 150 beds, with front of house and restaurant facilities provided at ground floor level.
A council document says: “It is considered that the proposed hotel will help meet the need for visitor accommodation in the city centre, and provide wider public benefits through improvements to public realm and increased activity to Melville Street, investment within the city and contributing to the vitality and viability of the city centre.”
Doncaster gears up for 25th running of Chamber’s business awards scheme
Preparations are under way for the Doncaster Business Awards 2023, which will be the 25th year the completion has been held – without even a break for Covid during which time the scheme was run virtually.
Organised by Doncaster Chamber of Commerce will kick off the event with a launch party on Friday 23rd June.
The number of categories has been increased to 17, so that alongside the usual accolades for inspiring apprentices, fledgling start-ups, compassionate charities, thriving smaller firms and major companies — there will be some new trophies up for grabs.
Jade Dyer, Business Director for Doncaster Chamber, said: “One of our most prestigious events, the awards never fail to inspire. It’s always rousing to see what our local business community is capable of — as we showcase their biggest achievements over the last twelve months — and we are blown away each and every year by the fantastic response.
“2023 ought to be particularly memorable, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ceremony and shine a spotlight on more businesses than ever before, thanks to our refreshed category list.
“With that said, I encourage any firm that wants to enter this year to consider attending our launch party, as it really is the best way to get into the competitive spirit. It’s where the awards officially begin and it marks the start of an incredibly exciting journey.”
Doncaster Chamber President Andy Morley has identified Harrison College and Doncaster Housing for Young People as good causes to benefit from fundraising activities related to the Business Awards. Andy said: “Both of these organisations do incredible work for young people. Having carved out a niche for itself, Harrison College is the only education provider in our city to focus on securing internships, employment and work skills for post-16s with special needs. In this sense, they are truly a one-of-a-kind institution.
“Meanwhile, Doncaster Housing for Young People helps those who are at the greatest risk of homelessness to overcome their disadvantages and look forward to brighter futures. Helping individuals find places to live, providing budgeting advice, and offering wellbeing safe spaces, the work they do is invaluable and it’s an honour to support them through the Business Awards.”
The Business Awards ceremony is scheduled for Thursday 7th December. The University of Sheffield, Orb Recruitment, DN Colleges Group, SYNETIQ, Keepmoat Homes and Carlton Forest Group have already signed up as category sponsors, while The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is the event’s headline sponsor.
Ørsted works with Wildlife Trusts to restore the Humber’s marine environments
Renewable energy company Ørsted is partnering with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust to launch Wilder Humber – a five-year environmental programme to restore marine habitats and species throughout the Humber estuary.
The estuary is one of the most important natural features and conservation sites in the UK, but its conservation status was downgraded to unfavourable condition by Natural England in 2012, attributed to habitat loss and commercial development, which resulted in the decline of habitats, such as sand dunes, saltmarsh, seagrass, and native oysters.
These habitats are critical for marine biodiversity. For example, seagrass provides rich nursery habitats, breeding and feeding grounds for a vast array of species, including shore crabs, juvenile flatfish, bass, brent geese and other wading birds. Sadly, extensive seagrass loss has occurred in UK waters during the last 100 years, with recent research estimating that at least 44% of the UK’s seagrass has been lost since 1936, of which 39% has been since the 1980s.
In efforts to reverse these major declines, the Wilder Humber programme is trialling a “seascape-scale” model, combining sand dune, saltmarsh, seagrass, and native oyster restoration to maximise conservation and biodiversity benefits across the estuary. The aim of the programme is to restore and enrich nearly 40 hectares of protected habitats and rebuild the Humber’s lost native oyster population to over half a million. 30 hectares of the overall 40-hectare ambition will focus on restoring lost seagrass meadow at Spurn Point, another key target for Wilder Humber.
In addition to spearheading the restoration works, Wilder Humber will also work with local communities to tell the story of the restoration journey through community events and school engagement visits and provide volunteering opportunities to contribute to wildlife conservation in the Humber estuary.
Rachael Bice, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, said:“The time has come for bigger, bolder action on seascape and seagrass restoration, following good results from our earlier trials. This pioneering programme delivered by an exciting partnership is a crucial step forward. We expect to see huge improvements to water quality, richer marine habitat providing a better home for more birds, seals and fish across the estuary and beyond.”
As a global leader in offshore wind, Ørsted has set an industry-leading ambition that all new renewable energy projects it commissions from 2030, at the latest, should deliver a net-positive biodiversity impact. Through collaboration with the Trusts, Wilder Humber programme will provide a foundation for Ørsted’s biodiversity ambitions.
Benj Sykes, Head of Environment, Consents and External Affairs at Ørsted, said: “The diversity of life on planet Earth is our natural life-support system, but it’s being lost at an alarming rate. Climate change is accelerating this trend and it’s vital we address the global climate and biodiversity crises urgently. At Ørsted, we firmly believe that we can find ways to increase the build out of much-needed renewable energy whilst delivering a positive impact on nature. Through collaboration with conservation and restoration experts, like The Wildlife Trust, we want to pioneer biodiversity projects that will make a real and lasting difference. Our partnership with Lincolnshire and Yorkshire Wildlife Trusts is a major step towards that ambition in the UK.”
First ever Yorkshire recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise announced
The first ever recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced today (21 April), celebrating the achievements of UK businesses, with 12 awards bestowed on Yorkshire & Humber companies.
Minister for Enterprise Kevin Hollinrake said: “I congratulate the first ever recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise, who exemplify the talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of British business.
“I wish them every success and commend the invaluable contributions they make to communities both at home and overseas, helping to grow the UK economy.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise was previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. The Award programme, now in its 57th year, has awarded over 7,000 companies since its inception in 1965. This year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise are given for outstanding achievement in Innovation, International trade, Sustainable development, and Promoting opportunity (through social mobility). His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year. The recipients from Yorkshire include: Innovation Ascendant Solutions – Doncaster Conductive Transfers – Barnsley Fuel Storage Solutions – Thornton Loadhog – Sheffield Senior Architectural Systems – Denaby Main Harrison Spinks – Leeds International trade Akula Living – Wetherby Bettys & Taylors Group – Harrogate Harrison Spinks – Leeds LabLogic Group Holdings, Sheffield Sustainable development Naturaw Pet Food – Wetherby The Green Estate CIC – Sheffield Chris Broadbent, director, Naturaw Pet Food, said: “To receive the Kings Award for Enterprise is a huge, huge honour for us, and a testament to our team’s hard work and resilience over the last few years in an incredibly challenging and unprecedented climate.” Jess Warneken, co-founder, added: “Sustainability has always been at the heart of our entire business ethos, we have always gone the extra mile to do things better. We’re so passionate about the way we conduct ourselves as a company, firmly believing we can have a commercially successful business that is also socially and environmentally conscious. To be recognised in this way with such a prestigious award is a proud moment.” Simon Spinks, chairman of Harrison Spinks, said: “It is a huge honour to be recognised with two inaugural King’s Awards this year, which sit proudly alongside the Queen’s Award we hold for Sustainable Development. These awards are a reflection of the hard work the team has delivered, ensuring we are constantly championing innovation and high-quality, sustainable design. “From an international trade perspective, we’re proud that our British values of sustainable innovation and quality have truly set us up for success in a global marketplace. “These awards are especially important to us as a British business – we are a company that champions homemade and homegrown materials; supports businesses that manufacture in the UK; and one which works with organisations such as British Wool on campaigns like the Traceable Wool Scheme. “Our team has put in a lot of hard work this year and we’re proud this has been recognised with an award for International Trade. We’re also thrilled to have been awarded the title for Innovation as we continue to be industry leaders while maintaining the highest standards of production.” Darren Kelk, Managing Director, Ascendant Solutions, said: “The King’s Award for Innovation is one of the highest accolades any business can receive, and the success we’ve achieved illustrates the vital role small businesses like Ascendant Solutions Ltd has within this market.”Construction and property consultancy appointed to major Sheffield regeneration projects
Construction and property consultancy, Summers-Inman, has been appointed to two major regeneration projects in Sheffield, both of which form part of the city’s ongoing redevelopment.
In both cases, the developer behind the projects is York-based Grantside – well known for its hugely successful Quorum Business Park in Newcastle and the Bonding Warehouse, York.
At The Hive, Kelham Island the first Carbon Net Zero building will be developed, and Summers-Inman will be responsible for cost consultancy and project management.
Located on Bowling Green Street, The Hive includes 100 co-living studios, spread over five floors and is designed with a focus on a curated community living style.
It will offer residents facilities such as communal kitchens, roof top allotments, laundry/café facilities and dedicated working and rest zones, whilst at ground floor level, commercial units will provide space for start-ups, independent traders and entrepreneurs looking for creative and inspirational space to grow their businesses.
The second project, known as 190 Norfolk Street and located on the corner of Charles and Norfolk Street, is also a Net Carbon Zero scheme. Seen as an architectural exemplar of design for Sheffield, it will overlook the award-winning public space, Peace Gardens. Summers-Inman has an expanded brief on this project, also taking on the role of principal designer.
Grantside’s proposals for this six-storey office development were approved by Sheffield City Council’s Planning Committee in November 2022.
This mixed-use office development, which is set to become a new landmark location in the heart of Sheffield’s commercial district, has again been designed with wellbeing and sustainability at its core. It will include around 2,200 sq ft of retail and active space on the ground floor, with 19,500 sq ft of flexible office space above.
Designed for multi or single occupancy, the building benefits from excellent natural daylight, local controllable ventilation and terraces at each floor level giving access to outdoor space and will be completed to shell and core standard for fit-out by the incoming tenant(s).
Summers-Inman was appointed to both projects following the submission of a competitive fee bid. Speaking about the firm’s appointment, North-East based John Harvey, associate director of Summers-Inman, is delighted to be working with Grantside’s Steve Davis again after a break of some years.
He said: “We last worked on a project with Steve about ten years ago. Since then, as a construction consultancy, we have greatly increased our capacity and developed our expertise on inner city projects, making us perfectly placed for this appointment, which we hope is the first of many for Grantside.
“We are just about to embark on detailed designs for both schemes and then we can go out to tender. I expect that construction will begin at The Hive in Bowling Green Lane first, later this year.
“As a Net Carbon Zero building, the conservation of energy will be a key aspect of the final design. In seeking a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for both buildings, every opportunity will be taken to reduce their carbon footprint with the use of recycled materials, cross-laminated timber, rainwater harvesting and the incorporation of planting with bee-friendly flowers and foliage.”
Steve Davis, Managing Director of Grantside Developments, added: “As a developer we always adopt a ‘people first’ approach to design, embracing wellness, the environment and technology. The human interfaces of our projects are always our starting point and I believe that both of these projects demonstrate our philosophy well.
“We have taken the utmost care in designing the buildings to ensure they achieve the highest quality standards and we are very much looking forward to beginning the process of collaborating with Summers-Inman and the rest of the design team to take our plans to the next stage.”
It is hoped the two-stage tender for The Hive will be launched before the end of April with construction likely to start around 20 weeks later, allowing for work on the detailed building design with the chosen contractor.
Yorkshire housebuilder backed with £10m investment
Family-owned housebuilder Newett Homes has secured a £10 million growth capital investment from BGF.
The Yorkshire-based company was founded in 2016 by Will Newett. Since then, the housebuilder, which specialises in developing high quality three to five-bedroom homes in desirable locations, has accumulated a significant landbank, totalling more than 3,000 plots.
The investment from BGF will allow Newett Homes to accelerate its build rate and realise an ambitious growth strategy to deliver more than 400 homes per year across the region.
Headquartered in Wetherby, Newett Homes is currently selling homes at developments in hand-picked locations across Yorkshire, including The Brambles at Skelmanthorpe near Huddersfield, Brooklands at Thurlstone near Sheffield, and a new development, The Pastures at Harrogate.
Will Newett, CEO at Newett Homes, said: “Over the last 18 months we have laid solid foundations for growth, building up a substantial landbank and investing in talent across all levels of the business. Our focus is creating luxurious forever homes, built to the highest of standards, and we have ambitions to significantly expand our footprint across the north of England.”
The deal was led by Chris Boyes and Linda Nguyenova, investors in BGF’s Yorkshire team.
BGF investor Chris Boyes, who will join the board as non-executive director, said: “This is a great opportunity for BGF to invest in a business that has a strong pedigree in housebuilding and is well primed for growth. Newett Homes has built up an impressive reputation for delivering homes in quality locations. The long-term drivers for housing demand are strong and we look forward to supporting the business on its growth journey.”
Following an introduction by BGF’s Talent Network team, John Cassie will join the board as non-executive chair (NXC). John brings considerable industry experience to Newett Homes, and is the former regional chairman of Persimmon Plc and the highly regarded NXC of former BGF portfolio company Campion Homes. Other BGF investments in the property sector include Derbyshire-based Woodall Homes and Braidwater Group, based in Northern Ireland.
“To deliver our strategy, we wanted a minority investment partner that recognised the potential of Newett Homes and had strong credentials in helping housebuilders to scale. We can’t wait to see what our business can achieve with BGF’s backing,” said Will Newett, CEO, Newett Homes.
Advisors to BGF on the transaction were Schofield Sweeney (Steven Millward, Jessica Fielden) and The Tax Advisory Partnership (Russ Cahill and Toyan Williams). Advisors to Newett Homes were Hill Dickinson (Sandip Khroud and Rebecca Bennett).
Kingston Engineering invests in innovation
Having seen significant growth in both its UK and global customer base, Kingston Engineering is investing in innovation.
The Hull-based precision engineering company and manufacturer of cutting-edge bespoke power screws and components has seen the recent addition of two new machines at their site on Pennington Street.
Installation of a Cylindrical Grinding Machine has been closely followed by the arrival of a new VESTA-1000 + 4th Axis Machine. Both these machines complement the already extensive machinery and facilities on the factory floor at Kingston Engineering.
A spokesperson for Kingston Engineering, which has a heritage dating back to 1919, said: “With a focus on growth and continued investment, Kingston Engineering is embracing the future and leading the way in precision engineering.”
Contact Kingston Engineering at sales@kingston-engineering.co.uk
APSS unveils new brochure to showcase its expertise in commercial interior design and fit out
Lincolnshire-based commercial interior design and fit out company, APSS, has launched a new brochure designed to showcase the company’s expertise and provide clients with a comprehensive overview of its services.
The new brochure, which is available to download on the APSS website, highlights the innovative and functional workspaces, from concept and design through to construction and installation. It showcases the company’s unique selling points, including its ability to deliver bespoke solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients on time and in budget.
“We are thrilled to launch our new brochure, which provides clients with a comprehensive overview of our services and expertise,” said Sarah Barker, Marketing and PR Co-ordinator for APSS. “The brochure is an essential component of our sales and marketing strategy and demonstrates our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our clients.”
The brochure features an updated design and layout, making it easier for clients to understand the many services the company has to offer. It includes case studies of recent projects, demonstrating the company’s ability to deliver high-quality work that exceeds clients’ expectations.
“We take pride in creating workspaces that enhance productivity and improve the overall well-being of our clients’ staff,” said Sarah. “Our team of experts is dedicated to creating spaces that are not only functional but also sustainable.”
Clients can download the new brochure for free on www.apss.co.uk. The brochure is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about APSS’s services and expertise.
For more information about APSS’s commercial interior design and fit-out services or to request a consultation, please visit www.apss.co.uk.
New appointment for NLT Training Services
Increased demand for construction and engineering training and courses in Humberside and Lincolnshire, has prompted NLT Training Services to create a new role in Scunthorpe.
Louise Bradshaw has joined the training provider’s Scunthorpe centre which is based on Queensway Industrial Estate as a training facilitator. Within the role Louise is responsible for coordinating and supporting the delivery of all courses at NLT‘s Scunthorpe training facility.
Prior to joining NLT Louise, who lives in Scunthorpe, worked for a company that provided independent living for vulnerable adults, managing the accommodation throughout Lincolnshire for 100 people. Louise also has extensive admin experience having also worked in estate agencies for a number of years. Outside work, Louise is actively involved in property development.
Commenting on her new role with NLT Louise said: “I really enjoy working with people and admin-based roles, so this job is ideal for me; it fits with my personal and professional life. I am really enjoying the role and being part of a growing business in Scunthorpe.”
Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive of NLT Training Services, added: “Louise’s appointment reflects the increased demand for training we are currently experiencing. We have revised our training offer over the last six months and added more eLearning and in-person courses that businesses in the area need, including leadership and management courses to help businesses adapt to the different ways of working which have been adopted since the pandemic. It’s an exciting period of growth for NLT.”
