Yorkshire housebuilder backed with £10m investment

Tess Egginton
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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

Tess Egginton
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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

Tess Egginton
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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

Tess Egginton
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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.”

National Grid pledges changes to get clean energy from generation to consumer

Stuart Pearcey
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National Grid pledges changes to get clean energy from generation to consumer
National Grid has launched the largest overhaul of the grid in generations, which will enable millions of UK businesses to use renewable energy for years to come.
The Great Grid Upgrade will see significant new infrastructure built across England and Wales to move more clean energy from where it’s generated to where it’s needed, helping the UK meet its net zero ambitions and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. By connecting more clean, renewable energy from where it’s generated in offshore wind farms to where it’s needed by communities across the UK, it’s claimed that The Great Grid Upgrade will also contribute to lower energy bills over the long-term, provide a catalyst for a green jobs boom and make the UK’s energy more self-sufficient. Carl Trowell, the National Grid’s President, Strategic Infrastructure,  said: “Our vision is a clean, fair and affordable energy future for the UK. The Great Grid Upgrade will play a major part in delivering this.” The Great Grid Upgrade is part of National Grid’s continued programme of investment into the UK energy transition, which will see £16bn invested from 2021-2026 to support the UK’s net zero goals. National Grid is one of the largest green investors in the FTSE.  

House building will begin in Bassingham this summer

Stuart Pearcey
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House building will begin in Bassingham this summer
Early this summer building work will begin on 18 new homes in the Lincolnshire village of Bassingham being built for Housing provider Longhurst Group by the Lindum Group. Plans were approved by North Kesteven District Council, whose planners had rejected an earlier application for 23 houses. The new proposal is to provide 18 units of timber frame construction in scale with the surrounding area; the units boast internal and external spaces of high quality for future residents of the scheme. Lindum Land and Planning Manager Robert Jays said: “We are thrilled to finally be getting this project off the ground, bringing much needed affordable housing to the village. “The planning approval is a huge reward for all the hard work that has gone into creating a development that will benefit the village and help provide opportunities for people in housing need.” The development includes a mix of 10 affordable rent and eight shared-ownership dwellings. These will include one and two bed bungalows, as well as two and three bed semi-detached houses. Each dwelling will have its own individual garden space and appropriate private parking provision in what will be a high quality housing development. Marcus Keys, Executive Director of Growth, Development and Assets at Longhurst Group, said: “This development will provide much-needed affordable housing to the area, so we’re delighted to have received approval from the planning committee at the second attempt. “As per our Improving Lives vision, we’re committed to providing the homes people want, where they’re needed most and we believe this development will help us to continue to do just that as do the local community who supported the development from the start. “The homes will also be made available on multiple tenures, so we’ll be creating opportunities for local people who wish to get onto the property ladder. “I’m grateful to our partners at Lindum Group, who we’ve worked closely with to re-design these plans, following comments received on the original application and I look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship as the development takes shape.”

Neglecting animals results in livestock ban for Yorkshire farmer

Stuart Pearcey
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Neglecting animals results in livestock ban for Yorkshire farmer
A farmer from Skipton has been banned from keeping livestock after an investigation by North Yorkshire Trading Standards officers revealed appalling neglect and suffering. Hayden Fortune, of Pyethornes Farm, Wigglesworth, Skipton, pleaded guilty to numerous animal health offences at York Magistrates’ Court last month and has been handed a 12-week prison sentence suspended for 18 months and ordered to pay £3,000 compensation and £1,000 towards costs. In April 2022, officers from the trading standards animal health team visited Pyethornes Farm and discovered cattle and pigs living in appalling conditions. No feed, water or dry bedding was available to the pigs and cattle on site and numerous carcases were left in various states of decay around the pens, which still housed live animals. Conditions were such that it was not possible to identify the exact number of carcases on site. To reach them all, officers would have had to climb over mounds of dead pigs and enter pens in which livestock were standing in knee-deep manure. It is estimated that the number of carcases exceeded 300. This action by trading standards was to protect the animals and ensure disease control procedures were in place, thus protecting the wider environment and maintaining the integrity of the human food chain. Executive member for regulatory services, Cllr Greg White, said: “The vast majority of livestock farmers value their animals and ensure they are treated well. The scenes of appalling neglect and suffering at Pyethornes Farm were dystopian and Mr Fortune’s abject failure to meet any reasonable standard of animal care and hygiene is totally unacceptable. “In North Yorkshire, we are serious about maintaining good standards of animal welfare. We will always press for the toughest action against those who fail to meet their legal obligation to properly look after farm animals. We welcome the magistrates’ recommendation that Mr Fortune should be prevented from keeping livestock in the future.” Fortune faced was charged with numerous offences under the Animal Welfare Act, including:
  • Causing unnecessary suffering to pigs by exposing them to the carcases of others, maintaining them in flooded pens with lurid water, providing no dry area and a lack of feed and drinking water.
  • Having a level of manure in the bovine area that made animal movement difficult, exposing cattle to the carcases of others, providing no dry area, and providing a lack of feed and drinking water.
  • Housing animals in a dangerous environment with hazardous material, including sharp wood and metal.

Barnsley industrial estate acquired for £4.65m

Tess Egginton
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Barnsley industrial estate acquired for £4.65m
Glenbrook Investments has acquired a multi-let industrial estate in Barnsley for £4.65 million. Fall Bank Industrial Estate in Dodworth comprises eight warehouses totalling 97,761 sq ft and is located less than two miles west of Junction 37 of the M1 motorway. The estate is fully let. Solomon Halpern, investment analyst at Glenbrook, said: “We are pleased to widen the scope of our portfolio with the acquisition of this industrial asset in Yorkshire. Fall Bank Industrial Estate provides a solid return and presents an opportunity to add value through refurbishment and improved site configuration. “We look forward to delivering a more efficient and well improved multi-let industrial estate as we seek to maximise its income potential.” Glenbrook Investments has increased its presence in Yorkshire over the last year; earlier this month, the company purchased 5-6 Commercial Street, occupied by Watches of Switzerland, in the heart of Leeds city centre from Legal & General, in an off-market deal for a price of £1.74m. Glenbrook has also recently completed the refurbishment of St Albions, a converted former Church Institute in Leeds, creating 31,400 sq ft of leisure, retail and office space in the city centre. Metis Real Estate and CMS acted for Glenbrook. The site was purchased off-market from a private vendor.

Building services engineering practice makes high profile appointment and expands into new Leeds offices

Tess Egginton
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Building services engineering practice makes high profile appointment and expands into new Leeds offices

Building services engineering practice, Tate Consulting, has appointed Aaron Willis as an associate to work on the company’s growing portfolio of global projects, which coincides with the company expanding into new offices in Leeds city centre.

Aaron brings more than 20 years’ experience designing and overseeing the installation of all types of mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems, predominantly specialising in the retail sector, spanning shop fitouts through to new shopping centres.

He is now part of the senior leadership and management team at Tate Consulting, overseeing a wide range of projects which include industrial, distribution and manufacturing developments, as well as large scale city centre apartment schemes, throughout the UK, Europe and North America.

He will also develop new business opportunities and work with existing clients to help them achieve their energy efficiency and ESG ambitions within their existing property estates.

Aaron’s appointment coincides with Tate Consulting relocating its Leeds office into a newly refurbished office suite within Bruntwood Works’ 14 King Street development, in the heart of Leeds city centre’s financial district, which will further support the growth of its team. The company, which also has offices in Belfast, London and Harrogate, was previously based near Elland Road.

Aaron said: “Over the past decade there has been a seismic change in the types of large-scale distribution centres and automated warehouses that are being developed, largely in response to the growth of online shopping. In addition, city centre residential markets are now being driven by high-rise, energy efficient, build to rent developments with high quality amenities.

“Tate Consulting is at the forefront of both these sectors and is currently working on an impressive range of projects, on behalf of national and international clients, throughout the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, Czech Republic and North America. The opportunity to work on and manage these types of career defining projects, within a growing team, makes this a very exciting move.”

Ray Cavanagh, Leeds office director at Tate Consulting, added: “Aaron has a wealth of experience across the building services and MEP sectors, as well as excellent sustainability and energy saving credentials, which will further enhance the services that we offer our clients. Crucially, his appointment will also help to shape the next generation of our senior leadership team in Leeds.

“We now plan to continue growing our Leeds team and will recruit more mechanical and electrical engineers at all levels this year, and relocating into Leeds city centre will support this. As well as giving us space to grow, 14 King Street offers meeting rooms, break out areas, showers, cycle storage and an impressive reception area, in a prime central location with the railway station and all the city’s bars, restaurants and shops on the doorstep, which makes it a fantastic place to work.

“The move also gives our colleagues and customers better access to the office via the public transport network, thus supporting our growth strategy to attract and retain the very best talent, as well as our environmental commitment to reducing our carbon footprint.”

This latest expansion follows Tate Consulting expanding into Northern Ireland last year.

York Minster marks further sustainability milestone with Deangate retrofit project

Tess Egginton
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York Minster marks further sustainability milestone with Deangate retrofit project

York Minster has hailed the positive effects of its groundbreaking Neighbourhood Plan as it plans the delivery of its first low carbon retrofit project.

The Neighbourhood Plan sets out a 15-year policy led approach to create a sustainable future for York Minster and its seven-hectare estate.

In the latest positive development for its delivery, plans to sustainably convert and refurbish 1 Deangate in the Minster Precinct have been given the go ahead by City of York Council.

The building will become offices and welfare facilities for the Minster’s Visitor Experience staff and volunteers.

It is the third recent major planning consent for renewable energy projects linked to York Minster’s decarbonisation strategy, following permissions for photovoltaic and solar panels on the roofs of the cathedral’s South Quire Aisle and soon-to-be-launched Refectory restaurant.

With these and the forthcoming Centre of Excellence project, the Minster is set to generate an average of 170,000 kilowatt-hours of power annually, the equivalent of over half of the Minster’s overall use.

The 1 Deangate retrofit project will see the addition of new technology to an older building and include the latest in sustainable design and performance, including real-time energy use, water efficiency equipment and air-source heat pumps.

It will be fully insulated and include a warm room and double-glazed wooden sliding sash windows in keeping with the building’s original architecture.

The Dean of York, the Very Revd Dominic Barrington, said: “The redevelopment of 1 Deangate is another major milestone in our journey towards net zero, with other similar projects set to follow as funding allows.

“Retrofitting our historical buildings is supported by a recent report commissioned by the National Trust, Historic England and other leading property organisations which found that improving the energy efficiency of aged properties could reduce carbon emissions from the UK’s buildings by 5% each year, whilst making them cheaper to run.”

Commenting on the wider Neighbourhood Plan, Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, added: “Our Neighbourhood Plan has set a trailblazing approach, not only for planning matters, but crucially for enabling us to safeguard the Minster and to create a sustainable future for both the cathedral building and its surrounding Precinct.

“We are extremely proud of the leading role we are playing in challenging the established narrative around the conservation of historic buildings. Our approach is a shining example of best practice in managing complex heritage estates and how to secure their long-term environmental, financial and heritage sustainability for future generations to enjoy.”

York Minster’s Centre of Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills and Estate Management is the pioneer project in the Neighbourhood Plan. Expected to be completed by mid-2024, it will establish the York Minster Precinct as a world class campus facility for research, education and training in ancient craft skills.

It will bring benefits including continuing the craft of stonemasonry through upskilling its heritage estates team and extending the number of apprenticeship placements the Minster offers. And by forging international partnerships with a network of cathedrals worldwide, it will ensure the specialist skills required to implement necessary and urgent change are in place whilst respecting and protecting the Minster’s history and heritage.

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