Homes England and York council launch strategic housing partnership

April Lara
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Homes England and York council launch strategic housing partnership

Homes England has formalised a Strategic Place Partnership with York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to accelerate housing and regeneration projects across the region. The agreement aligns the combined authority’s development priorities with Homes England’s funding, expertise, and delivery tools.

The partnership will focus on large-scale projects, including York Central, a major city centre regeneration site with capacity for up to 2,500 homes, and planned developments at Maltkiln and Elvington Garden Village. A shared business plan will guide joint initiatives, aiming to increase both market and affordable housing availability.

The collaboration builds on existing relationships between local authorities, transport bodies, and cultural institutions to integrate housing delivery with wider placemaking objectives. The initiative forms part of Homes England’s broader network of nine Strategic Place Partnerships with authorities across England, designed to support regional housing targets and regeneration agendas.

The partnership is expected to address housing pressures in York and North Yorkshire, where high property prices and over 10,000 households on waiting lists have intensified demand. By coordinating planning, investment, and project delivery, Homes England and YNYCA aim to drive efficient development and support sustainable urban and rural growth in the region.

Digital education specialist secures backing for expansion

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Digital education specialist secures backing for expansion
Leeds-based digital education specialist AXOL is planning to grow its client portfolio with investment from Finance Yorkshire. Entrepreneur Sam Jordan launched his business three years ago in response to the increasing demand for e-learning post-pandemic, with independent education providers using Merve, developed by AXOL, to launch their own online learning platforms. A £65,000 investment from Finance Yorkshire’s loan fund is supporting AXOL’S marketing strategy to attract new clients. The investment has also enabled the business to recruit another web developer. Sam started his career as a web developer when he was 16. He went on to provide consultancy and IT support to businesses in Australia before returning to the UK, working in software development and digital translation services for the NHS and MoD. Sam said: “Throughout my years of experience consulting with EdTech start-ups and scale-ups, we’ve undertaken third party research to validate the efficacy of our education technology and seen a substantial benefit for students. “Digital learning enables students to learn at their own pace, providing educators with valuable insights and time to mentor those who need it. We work with clients to build or enhance their online courses and the overall e-learning experience of their students.” AXOL’S e-learning platform brings several education technology tools under one umbrella – course content management, user management and compliance with regulations such as GDPR. Sam added: “Finance Yorkshire saw the potential in what we are trying to achieve. With it’s backing, I’m confident we will succeed.” Alex McWhirter, Finance Yorkshire’s CEO, said: “Sam has considerable experience in the digital sector which has led him to develop an innovative e-learning platform for students. “The digital sector is thriving at both regional and national level and will contribute to the increase in growth and wealth in the Yorkshire region. “Finance Yorkshire is supporting AXOL’S ambitions to attract more clients and grow the business from its Yorkshire base.”

Brabners strengthens Leeds real estate team with new partner hire

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Brabners strengthens Leeds real estate team with new partner hire
Independent law firm Brabners has bolstered its real estate practice with the appointment of Ben Lamb as partner. Ben is an experienced real estate partner who is known for his proactive approach to transactions and his straightforward and pragmatic advice. He advises a broad range of clients across all key commercial property sectors including logistics, retail, leisure and offices. As well as acting for investors, developers and corporate occupiers, Ben also represents a range of funders and borrowers on real estate finance transactions. He joins from Clarion, where he operated as a partner in the real estate team for over 9 years. Based in Leeds since 2011, he previously worked as a lawyer in the City of London for a decade. Ben’s addition grows one of the largest real estate practices in the North of England. Ben Lamb, real estate partner at Brabners, said: “Ahead of my move to Brabners, I spent considerable time with the firm’s managing partner Nik White and other members of the management team. I was struck by their clear and ambitious growth strategy for both Leeds and across the North. “This is allied with an unwavering commitment to delivering a joined up, user friendly service to clients, which is apparent from all the interactions that I have had across the firm. I have no doubt that Brabners will prove to be an excellent new base for me to serve my clients and provide a great platform for winning new business in Yorkshire and beyond.” Nik White, managing partner at Brabners, said: “Ben’s appointment is a key part of our ambition to continue building a market-leading real estate capability in Leeds and across the North. “We know Ben’s reputation as an excellent lawyer who goes the extra mile for his clients and this makes him an ideal fit to strengthen and grow our real estate practice and the Leeds office. It’s a pleasure to see our Leeds office continuing to grow at pace and I have no doubt that Ben will prove a significant addition to the firm.”

Ambitious growth of Sills & Betteridge Solicitors continues following merger with Bell & Buxton Solicitors

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Ambitious growth of Sills & Betteridge Solicitors continues following merger with Bell & Buxton Solicitors
Historic Sheffield law firm Bell & Buxton Solicitors has merged with Sills & Betteridge Solicitors to form a new powerhouse in the Sheffield legal market. Bell & Buxton Solicitors has been a pillar of legal excellence in Sheffield for 150 years, renowned for its litigation and corporate law practices. The firm has built a reputation for delivering top-tier legal services and fostering long-term client relationships. Sills & Betteridge Solicitors, established in 1759 already has 16 offices across Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and the East Midlands and over 400 partners and staff. Their expansion into South Yorkshire began in 2019 with the acquisition of Bridge Sanderson Munro Solicitors of Doncaster, Bawtry, Thorne and Wath upon Dearne. The firm then extended its presence into Sheffield in 2021 with the acquisition of Rawson Family Law. Two years later, they acquired Acclaimed Family Law and the team now occupy offices at New Oxford House, Barker’s Pool in the regenerated ‘Heart of the City’ quarter. The Bell & Buxton team will remain at Telegraph House for the foreseeable future. The merger of these two Legal 500 ranked law firms will create one of the largest law firms in Sheffield with a turnover of over £25 million. The merged firm will create a new force in the Sheffield legal market, offering a comprehensive suite of services across multiple practice areas. The combined firm, to be known initially as Sills & Betteridge incorporating Bell & Buxton will leverage the strengths of both firms to provide unparalleled legal services in the city. “We are thrilled to join forces with Sills & Betteridge Solicitors,” said Matthew Rodgers, Partner of Bell & Buxton Solicitors. “This merger represents a significant step for both firms as we respond to the changing legal landscape and the evolving needs of our clients. “By coming together, we can offer a wider range of services while maintaining the trusted, personal relationships that both firms have built with generations of clients. With a strong cultural fit and shared values, we look forward to reinforcing the Sills & Betteridge brand in the Sheffield market, building on their previous successful merger with Acclaimed Family Law.” Partner, Alex Ross adds: “We would also like to acknowledge the help and support given to us by Adam Ames, Jo Cresswell and Alicia Williams of Shorts Accountants throughout the merger process. They have been an integral part of the process.” Martyn Hall, Chief Financial Officer of Sills & Betteridge Solicitors, added: “Our firms share a common vision of excellence and client service and by combining our talents and resources, we will enhance our ability to deliver innovative and effective legal solutions in the city of Sheffield. Sills & Betteridge have ambitious growth ambitions, and this merger marks a major step forward in our regional expansion strategy.”

Nespresso trims UK workforce amid strategic consolidation

April Lara
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Nespresso trims UK workforce amid strategic consolidation

Nespresso has cut over 200 roles in the UK while closing 11 stores during 2024, reducing its local headcount from 716 to 499. The move forms part of a broader operational review designed to align resources with current market demand and evolving customer engagement trends.

Financial filings show the UK division’s revenue edged up from £338.6 million to £340.7 million, with pre-tax profit rising to £15 million. Domestic sales increased to £309.9 million, while international revenue declined to £30.8 million. Dividends to the parent company in Switzerland fell slightly to £10.3 million.

The company has strengthened its business-to-business operations and launched a trial coffee shop concept in central London, signalling a strategic pivot toward diversified revenue streams. Filings indicate ongoing challenges from inflation, supply chain volatility, climate-related costs, and rising indirect taxes, which are influencing strategic decisions across the sector.

Nespresso continues to operate under its Swiss parent, maintaining a focus on efficiency, adaptability, and high-value product delivery.

£21m redevelopment begins at Catterick town centre

April Lara
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£21m redevelopment begins at Catterick town centre

Construction has started on a £21 million redevelopment of Catterick town centre, a project designed to serve one of the UK’s largest military garrisons and surrounding communities. The scheme combines public and defence funding, with £19 million provided through the government’s Levelling Up Fund and additional contributions from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and local authorities.

The redevelopment, led by Willmott Dixon and supported by Align Property Partners and Barton Howe Associates, is scheduled for completion by winter 2026. Central to the project is a new civic square, a mini plaza, and a Community and Enterprise building offering office space for small businesses, community facilities, and food retail. Landscaping enhancements will include upgrades to Coronation Park, with improved play areas, a skate park, and sensory spaces, alongside enhanced pedestrian and cycling routes linking the town centre.

The civic square is designed to host markets, festivals, music events, and other community activities, creating a shared space for military personnel, veterans, and local residents. Local suppliers are being engaged throughout the construction phase to maximise economic benefit in the region and support employment.

The project reflects a multi-agency partnership between the Ministry of Defence, North Yorkshire councils, and private consultancy teams, aiming to create a sustainable commercial and community hub while strengthening connections between the garrison and the wider town.

JLL appoints new director to lead its office agency in Yorkshire and the North East

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JLL appoints new director to lead its office agency in Yorkshire and the North East
Property services firm JLL has appointed a new director to helm its office agency in Yorkshire and the North East. Sam Jamieson joins from Cushman and Wakefield where he served as a partner, specialising in disposal instructions and acquisition work for clients across Leeds, Sheffield and the North East. Prior to this he spent six years at Knight Frank. His new role will see him leading on some of the most high-profile office developments across the region. Sam will work closely with Leeds office head Tom McWilliams to continue to grow JLL’s presence in the city. The appointment comes as senior director Jeff Pearey retires. In a career spanning over 40 years, Jeff established a reputation as one of the region’s pre-eminent office agents. Since joining JLL in 2006 as the only Leeds-based director, he grew the office from just 23 staff to over 100-strong. He has played a key role as an adviser on many of the region’s major office agency schemes, including MEPC’s Wellington Place, Evans’ Minerva & Capitol buildings, CEG’s Kirkstall Forge and Munroe K’s White Rose Office Park, and held senior positions at Leeds Chamber of Commerce and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). Tom McWilliams, head of Yorkshire and North East at JLL, said: “It’s hard to overstate the impact that Jeff has had on Leeds’ office market over the past four decades – not least here at JLL, where he played a pivotal role in establishing and growing our presence in the region. “He leaves us in a strong position at an exciting time for the real estate sector in Yorkshire and the North East. The region is benefitting from a combination of inward investment and renewed devolution powers, and our ambition is to help businesses capitalise on this environment through development. “High-level appointments such as Sam will be pivotal in allowing us to deliver on this ambition. He brings a wealth of experience and strong reputation for delivering positive results for clients, and I look forward to working closely with him to support our region’s ongoing development.” Sam Jamieson, head of office agency, Yorkshire and North East, at JLL, said: “Leeds has always been a city that thrives on ambition and collaboration, and I’m looking forward to building on that alongside Tom and the team here. “Our region is seeing strong momentum from both investors and occupiers, and JLL has an incredible track record of helping to shape that growth. The scale of expertise within the team and the chance to work with clients on some of the region’s most exciting developments made this an easy decision for me.” Jeff Pearey, senior director at JLL, said: “It’s been a real privilege to work alongside so many great clients, colleagues and consultants over the past 40 years, and I’ve been fortunate to have a front row seat to watch Leeds’ ongoing transformation into one of the UK’s prime destinations to work, live and study in. “Although it feels like the right time for me to step back, it’s undoubtedly a compelling time to be working in the region’s property space. I look forward to watching Tom, Sam and the team continue to drive the firm forward.”

Sleaford Building Services secures £750,000 funding package

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Sleaford Building Services secures £750,000 funding package
Sleaford Building Services (SBS), a Lincolnshire-based mechanical, electrical and construction contractor, has secured a £750,000 funding package from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II. The finance was provided by the appointed fund manager for the East and South East Midlands, Maven Capital Partners, and will support working capital requirements to deliver a growing pipeline of secured contracts. Founded in 2003, SBS has experience in various sectors including healthcare, leisure and education across the UK. The new funding package will enable SBS to scale its delivery capability as the business continues to grow, taking on larger and more complex projects across its core sectors. Maven first backed the business through the first iteration of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund in 2019, which supported the firm’s growth plans, enabled it to deliver a number of contracts, and resulted in the creation of new jobs. SBS has continued to grow steadily since then, further building its capabilities and client base across the region and beyond. Barry Exton, managing director at Sleaford Building Services, said: “We’re pleased to secure this funding, which will drive organic and cross sector growth. We’ve worked with Maven on two occasions now to secure a debt finance package to support the business and in doing so, creating employment robustness and opportunities for new starters.” Richard Altoft, investment director at Maven, said: “We’ve worked with Barry and the team at SBS for a number of years and have seen the business go from strength to strength. They have an impressive track record of delivering complex mechanical, electrical and construction projects to the highest standard. “This latest funding will provide the additional headroom they need to fulfil upcoming contracts, and we’re pleased to continue our partnership through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II.”

York launches Europe campus in Greece

April Lara
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York launches Europe campus in Greece

The University of York has received approval from the Greek Ministry of Education to establish its Europe campus in Greece. The campus, based in Thessaloniki and Athens, expands the university’s existing partnership with CITY College, which has been admitting students since 2021.

York Europe Campus, officially recognised as a university legal entity (ULE), allows it to award degrees equivalent to those of Greek state universities. This status enhances its ability to collaborate with other institutions, access funding, and participate in national research programmes.

The campus offers programmes in English Studies, Psychology, Business Administration, Economics, Computer Science, and Law, with undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses planned from 2026. A new Computer Science hub in Athens will provide technology-focused facilities for students. The Law department in Thessaloniki will combine Greek and Common law in its curriculum, targeting local students.

York Europe Campus serves students from over 60 countries and delivers courses across seven nations in Southeast Europe and the Caucasus. It positions the university as a high-ranking international presence in Greece according to Times Higher Education metrics.

The Greek licence follows York’s plans to open a new campus in Mumbai in 2026, initially offering courses in computer science, AI, cybersecurity, business, economics, and the creative industries.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport funding backed by mayor

April Lara
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Doncaster Sheffield Airport funding backed by mayor

Doncaster Sheffield Airport could reopen following Mayor Oliver Coppard’s announcement to support funding proposals. The move is seen as a key step in securing the airport’s future and enhancing economic activity across South Yorkshire.

Local business groups highlight the potential for the airport to strengthen regional industries, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and aviation, and to attract investment. The project requires unanimous backing from all four South Yorkshire councils to signal a cohesive regional approach to Government, investors, and airlines.

The announcement follows discussions last week, when the Mayor indicated support in principle but had not committed funding. The decision provides businesses and stakeholders with greater clarity on the airport’s prospects and the wider economic opportunities linked to its reopening.

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