North East Lincolnshire council launches business tendering workshops

April Lara
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North East Lincolnshire council launches business tendering workshops

North East Lincolnshire Council is offering a pair of workshops designed to help local businesses compete for public and private sector contracts.

The sessions, organised through InvestNEL and delivered by Tender360, will cover all stages of the tendering process, from identifying opportunities to preparing bid submissions. Businesses will gain guidance on procurement procedures, buyer expectations, evaluation criteria, pricing, and integrating social value into proposals.

The first workshop on 16 October will provide an introduction to public sector tendering and focus on preparing businesses to bid, including policies, insurances, accreditations, and references. The second session on 23 October will concentrate on assessing opportunities and producing strong tender responses, with practical advice on method statements, commercial strategy, pricing, and demonstrating added value. Both workshops will take place at the Europarc Innovation Centre, Grimsby, from 09:30 to 12:30.

Attendance is limited to businesses registered in North East Lincolnshire, and participants must commit to both sessions. A refundable deposit of £25 is required. Funding is provided by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

UK inflation stood stubborn at 3.8% in August

Tess Egginton
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UK inflation stood stubborn at 3.8% in August
Inflation remained at 3.8% in the 12 months to August, in line with July, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.3% in August 2025, the same rate as in August 2024. Air fares made the largest downward contribution to the monthly change; restaurants and hotels, and motor fuels made large, partially offsetting, upward contributions. Core inflation, meanwhile, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, came in at 3.6% in the 12 months to August, down from the 3.8% in July and in line with forecasts. Martin Sartorius, principal economist, CBI, said: “Inflation remained elevated in August, consistent with the Bank of England’s projections. Higher food and energy prices, alongside the passthrough from increased labour costs, are expected to keep price growth firm in the near term. “The Monetary Policy Committee looks set to keep interest rates unchanged tomorrow and, going forward, the MPC faces a delicate balance between signs of a cooling labour market and the risk of price pressures remaining stubbornly high. Its rate decision in November will likely hinge on whether future data give the MPC confidence that a further cut will not contribute to inflation staying elevated for longer.”

Extensive refurbishment programme and multi-million-pound investment completes at Sheffield industrial estate

Tess Egginton
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Extensive refurbishment programme and multi-million-pound investment completes at Sheffield industrial estate
Network Space Investments (NSI) has completed an extensive refurbishment programme and multi-million-pound investment at Grange 34, a multi-let industrial estate in Sheffield. Located on Grange Mill Lane, just off Junction 34 of the M1 and minutes from Meadowhall, the estate comprises four modern warehouse units ranging from 10,064 to 50,505 sq ft. The units have been full refurbished internally and externally to deliver high-spec, energy-efficient accommodation, which includes new offices and welfare facilities, power capacity upgrades, PIR LED lighting, 8m clear internal height, full height loading and secure yards with ample parking. Tom Dawson, managing director at Network Space Investments, said: “Grange 34 is a prime example of our strategy to acquire, refurbish and reposition underutilised estates in key regional markets. By investing significantly in the site, we have created high-quality, flexible units that will appeal to both local operators and national occupiers seeking immediate access to the motorway network.” Knight Frank and Commercial Property Partners (CPP) have been appointed as letting agents. Rebecca Schofield, partner at Knight Frank, said: “Grange 34 is in a prime Sheffield location with direct access to the M1 at J34. The business park offers much-needed good quality industrial and warehouse space where there is now limited supply of this size range along this M1 corridor. “NSI’s extensive refurbishment meets occupier requirements and provides good eaves height, fitted offices and energy-efficient lighting and we expect to see good interest in the units on the back of this.” The refurbishment works were undertaken by Bansco, with project management led by GV&Co.

DPP appoints senior planner at Leeds office

Tess Egginton
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DPP appoints senior planner at Leeds office
DPP Planning has appointed Jack Paine as a senior planner at its Leeds office. A graduate of the University of Liverpool, Jack began his career as a planning officer at the London Borough of Hackney, where he specialised in planning enforcement, before moving on to a private, multi-disciplinary environmental consultancy as a planner. While in his previous roles, Jack worked on projects such as the regeneration of a listed pier and a battery storage facility in Cheshire. Speaking on his appointment, Jack said: “As an avid Leeds United supporter, I am thrilled to be back working in the North East of England and at DPP, which has such a great reputation in the region. “I am really looking forward to working with the team which has such a breadth of experience in sports and wellbeing developments, as well as health and residential – all areas that I am keen to learn more about in my role here.” Gareth Hooper, CEO of DPP Planning, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Jack to the Leeds office. His experience in both the public, environmental and private sectors are really important to us as a business and will be essential to extend our reach in these areas. “I am really looking forward to working with Jack and seeing his career progress with us at DPP.”

Public funding specialist joins Ward Hadaway as partner

Tess Egginton
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Public funding specialist joins Ward Hadaway as partner
Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed one of the UK’s leading public funding lawyers, Alexander Rose, as partner. Alexander joins from international law firm DWF. He specialises in subsidy control and grant funding programmes, advising both public authorities and private organisations on the use of public monies. Over a career spanning more than 20 years, Alexander has advised on the compliance of more than £3.5bn in public funding including major regeneration initiatives, inward investment projects and the UK’s first Subsidy Control court case. He has also provided evidence as an expert witness to the Parliamentary Select Committee on the Subsidy Control Bill and previously spent more than seven years at the Government Legal Department, writing national guidance and advising ministers on funding programmes including devolution deals and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. His move to Ward Hadaway marks a significant step in the firm’s ambitions to further build on its public sector work. Alexander will support clients in navigating the changing landscape of public funding, from inward investment and regeneration projects to the opportunities created by devolution and the Levelling Up agenda. Alexander Rose said: “Ward Hadaway has a superb reputation for the quality of advice, as well as the personable, proactive and pragmatic approach of its lawyers. I’m really looking forward to getting down to work and helping enable important public funded projects to happen.” He joins Ward Hadaway at a time of significant growth, following a series of lateral hires, the merger with The Endeavour Partnership in Teesside and the opening of a Birmingham office – all part of the firm’s strategy to expand its national reach. Damien Charlton, head of commercial at Ward Hadaway, said: “Alexander’s expertise in subsidy control and public funding law makes him a highly valuable addition to our team. This is a critical and fast-developing area and his skills will enable us to provide even greater support to clients delivering complex, high-value projects.”

Chadwick Lawrence golf day raises £6,500 for Wakefield charities

Tess Egginton
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Chadwick Lawrence golf day raises £6,500 for Wakefield charities
Yorkshire law firm Chadwick Lawrence has raised £6,500 for local charities Wakefield Hospice and Theatre Royal Wakefield, with the return of its charity golf day. The golf day, hosted at Wakefield Golf Club, welcomed 64 participants split into 16 teams of four. With a mix of Chadwick Lawrence staff and their clients playing together, the event provided a networking opportunity and friendly competition, while raising money for two important local causes. The funds raised have now been split equally between Wakefield Hospice and Theatre Royal Wakefield. Wakefield Hospice is a local charity that has been providing expert care to local people with life limiting illnesses for over 30 years. The hospice relies on generosity and compassion within the local community to raise vital funds for its services. The money raised will go directly towards providing vital care for the hospice’s patients and their families, through a range of support services including symptom management, emotional or spiritual support, and creating precious moments of comfort and dignity. Theatre Royal Wakefield’s mission is to develop new creative opportunities and experiences for the local community, encouraging engagement in the Performing Arts. It works with young people across the district through inclusive, creative programmes like Performance Academy, CHIME, and Wakey Wakey. Chadwick Lawrence’s donation will go directly towards bursaries to open doors for young people interested in theatre, equipment and resources to improve accessibility and participation, support staff to allow learning-disabled young people to shine, and creating safe, inspiring spaces where young people can discover the arts. It will also support the theatre’s Stepping Out group, which works with older people at risk of isolation to bring them together, build friendships and challenge loneliness. Paul Campbell, partner at Chadwick Lawrence, said: “At Chadwick Lawrence, giving back to the community is at the heart of everything we do. We work with around 15 charities each year, both through long-term partnerships and one-off initiatives, as well as volunteering approximately 1,360 hours (180 working days) annually to local, national and international causes. “That’s why we were delighted to bring back our charity golf day this year and see so many familiar faces joining us in raising funds for Wakefield Hospice and Theatre Royal Wakefield – two vital local causes. We look forward to hosting the event again next summer.” Alex Cunniff, events fundraiser at Wakefield Hospice, said: “It was a real pleasure to enter a hospice team into the golf day and to be part of such a fantastic event. “We are so fortunate to have like-minded supporters who share our commitment to making a difference in their community. Chadwick Lawrence’s generosity and enthusiasm ensures that we can keep delivering the specialist care our patients depend on, and we can’t thank them enough.” Sarah Shooter, head of development at Theatre Royal Wakefield, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Chadwick Lawrence for their generous support through the recent golf day. “The money raised will make a real and lasting difference to young people in our community — helping them access the joy of performing arts, make new friends, and build confidence through programmes like Performance Academy, CHIME and Stepping Out. Thank you for helping us change lives.”

Kingston Engineering strengthens legacy of innovation with investment in high-performance Hwacheon machines

Tess Egginton
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Kingston Engineering strengthens legacy of innovation with investment in high-performance Hwacheon machines
At the core of Kingston Engineering’s success as a leading precision engineering company with an impressive heritage spanning over 106 years, has been its focus on innovation. This commitment to progressing and moving the company forward has inspired Kingston Engineering to evolve continually across the decades and to remain at the forefront of the precision industry. The most recent investment by Kingston Engineering in cutting-edge machines ensures they continue to provide advanced precision manufacturing, empowering innovations in so many industries today. As pioneers in precision manufacturing, Kingston Engineering has this year invested in two high-performance machines from the renowned manufacturer Hwacheon. In the first quarter of 2025, Kingston Engineering introduced a new Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B onto the machine shop floor. The Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B has powerful drives with the capabilities of handling the most demanding machining requirements. The horizontal turning centre is a proven, multifunctional, and highly customisable machine, equipped with advanced features, capable of handling complex machining tasks. The new Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B ensures the superior production and performance of ultra-precision complex components with intricate features. In September 2025, Kingston Engineering completed the installation of a new Hwacheon Vesta-1300B+, a vertical machining centre. This machine is another welcome addition to the already extensive machine base at the Kingston Engineering site. The Hwacheon Vesta-1300B+ machine is particularly suitable for ductile materials such as copper, aluminium, and steel. This machine is renowned for enabling exceptionally high cutting rates, further expanding Kingston Engineering’s already impressive capabilities. Kingston Engineering’s recent investment in both these high-performance machines is a testament to the company’s commitment to advanced technologies and delivering the highest quality precision solutions to customers. It’s an exciting time for Kingston Engineering as they continue to invest in the future and lead the way in shaping precision engineering of the future.

Demystifying AI for Harrogate businesses

April Lara
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Demystifying AI for Harrogate businesses

Harrogate businesses have the opportunity to explore practical applications of artificial intelligence at a networking event on Thursday, 30 October 2025. The event takes place at 1 Cardale Park, Beckwith Head Road, Harrogate, running from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM GMT.

Organised by 1 Cardale Park – Serviced Offices, the event begins with a networking session over coffee and light refreshments, providing attendees with time to connect before the main presentation. The session, titled “Using AI in Business”, focuses on how small and medium-sized enterprises can integrate AI into operations, marketing, and customer engagement without requiring technical expertise.

The event is designed to offer practical insights for both AI beginners and those already using automation tools. Following the presentation, a dessert table will be available, allowing further discussion in an informal setting.

Attendance is free for professionals aged 18 and over, with complimentary on-site parking. Participants are encouraged to register early through Eventbrite, as spaces are limited.

GMI Construction joins NEUPC refurbishment framework

April Lara
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GMI Construction joins NEUPC refurbishment framework

GMI Construction Group has been appointed to the North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC) Refurbishment Framework, expanding its public sector footprint.

The company will deliver projects in the £4 million to £10 million range across Yorkshire and Humber from its Leeds office. The four-year framework covers refurbishment schemes for NEUPC members, associates, and affiliates, including universities, further education colleges, schools, NHS Trusts, and other public sector organisations.

NEUPC forms part of the UK Universities Procurement Consortia, which manages collaborative procurement agreements across the UK higher education sector. GMI’s participation aligns with its broader public sector growth strategy and builds on existing framework roles, including Pagabo, Procure Partnerships, NEPO, and the University of Manchester Construction Works framework.

The appointment follows the creation of a new Head of Frameworks role at GMI, focused on expanding the company’s engagement with institutional clients and strengthening long-term framework relationships.

GMI plans to leverage the NEUPC framework to deliver high-quality refurbishment projects while supporting efficiency and value across public sector environments. The framework appointment reinforces the company’s reputation in managing large-scale projects within collaborative procurement models and consolidates its presence in the education, healthcare, and wider public services sectors.

UK-US deal accelerates new nuclear projects

April Lara
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UK-US deal accelerates new nuclear projects

UK and US companies have signed a series of agreements to accelerate the development of nuclear power, supporting private investment and creating thousands of jobs across the two countries. The deals follow a government-level agreement designed to reduce licensing times for new nuclear projects from three to four years down to around two, enabling faster project delivery.

In the UK, the agreements are expected to expand the nuclear sector, which added 11,000 jobs this year. Projects include plans for up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, potentially generating enough electricity for 1.5 million homes and creating up to 2,500 local jobs, with wider UK programmes targeting a fleet producing 6GW of power. Total economic value for the North East is estimated at £12 billion, with the overall programme projected at £40 billion.

Other initiatives include the development of advanced data centres powered by small modular reactors at the former Cottam coal-fired station in Nottinghamshire, supported by Holtec, EDF, and Tritax, representing an £11 billion investment and creating both construction and long-term operational roles. Last Energy and DP World plan a micro modular reactor to provide clean power for the London Gateway port, backed by £80 million in private funding.

Fuel and technology agreements include Urenco and Radiant supplying advanced HALEU fuel to the US, while TerraPower and KBR will evaluate UK sites for Natrium reactors, each supporting roughly 1,600 construction jobs and 250 permanent positions.

The agreements form part of the UK government’s wider strategy to expand homegrown nuclear energy, including the Sizewell C development, small modular reactor programmes, and investments in fusion energy.

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