Yorkshire manufacturer celebrates sparkling anniversary

Michael Fisher
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Yorkshire manufacturer celebrates sparkling anniversary

One of Yorkshire’s leading manufacturers, Ellis Patents is marking its own right royal sparkling jubilee this summer – with the Rillington-based company celebrating its 60th anniversary.  

The cable cleat manufacturer, which actively exports to 45 countries through a global network of local distributors, was founded in 1962 by former WWII pilot, Arthur Ellis and began life as a manufacturer of plastic pipe clips and cable clamps in York. The company relocated to Rillington, near Malton, in 1974 and began manufacturing cable cleats in the mid-1990s.  

Danny Macfarlane, Ellis Patents’ managing director, said: “Businesses need to be able adapt to stand the test of time, and time and again over the last 60-years Ellis Patents has done exactly that; whether it be embracing new technology or developing our product offering to meet the changing needs of the market.”  

“Since I joined in 2003, we’ve evolved from a manufacturer with a predominately British focus into an organisation with a truly global outlook and a reputation to match – so much so that today it’s virtually guaranteed that our cable cleats will be under consideration for any new major electrical installation anywhere in the world.” 

Another key ingredient in the Ellis Patents success story has been the longevity of its workforce and the loyalty that has engendered. The vast majority of Ellis’ staff live locally with over 60 per cent having been with the company for over a decade. Amazingly, its longest serving employees, Steve Spaven and David Wheeler joined within a week of each other in February 1987.  

“Having such a loyal and experienced workforce is a huge benefit for the business and for the suppliers, distributors and customers we work with,” continued Danny. “The experience we have across the entire business is unparalleled; and because so many have chosen to build their careers with us rather than move on, they treat Ellis Patents as their business rather than just the place they work.” 

British Steel and Drax sign MoU about carbon capture project

Stuart Pearcey
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British Steel and Drax sign MoU about carbon capture project
British Steel and Drax have signed an agreement to explore opportunities for its steel to be used to build the world’s largest multi-billion-pound carbon capture project at the power station. The signing of the MoU brings together two major British industries to support the development of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, a technology, which it’s claimed could kick-start a whole new sector of the economy and create opportunities for the UK to lead the world in a vital technology required to address global warming. Through the partnership, Drax and British Steel aim to support efforts to meet the UK’s climate targets and level up the North, whilst supporting skills within the steel sector. Will Gardiner, Drax Group CEO, said: “We are excited to be partnering with British Steel as we continue to progress our world-leading UK BECCS project. This country has a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead the world in vital new green technologies like BECCS, which will not only support thousands of UK jobs, but could also create new export opportunities, whilst helping to tackle the climate crisis. “We aim to invest billions of pounds, create tens of thousands of jobs and have BECCS operational in the UK by 2030, provided that the UK Government has in place policies to support the feasibility and delivery of negative emissions technologies. BECCS will permanently remove millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere every year from as soon as 2027, whilst continuing to generate the reliable, renewable power this country needs.” BECCS is a critical technology needed to combat global warming because it permanently removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere whilst also generating reliable, renewable electricity. Drax is ready to invest around £2bn in its plans to build BECCS in the UK. Work could begin as soon as 2024, with the energy company planning to source up to 80% of the materials and services it needs for the project from British businesses. Around 13,000 tonnes of steel will be required for the major infrastructure project, including beams produced at British Steel’s Scunthorpe and Teesside steel works.

South Yorkshire’s role as an aircraft builder moves a step closer

Stuart Pearcey
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South Yorkshire’s role as an aircraft builder moves a step closer
The choice by UK-based leader sustainable aircraft technology company Hybrid Air Vehicles of South Yorkshire as the place from which to get a new kind of aircraft off the ground has moved a step closer with the signing of an aircraft reservation agreement with Air Nostrum, one of the largest regional airlines in Europe, for HAV’s pioneering Airlander 10 hybrid aircraft. HAV is in advanced discussions with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Doncaster Council and other local and national stakeholders on plans to manufacture Airlander 10s within a new green aerospace manufacturing cluster in South Yorkshire. Already the world’s most energy-efficient largest aircraft, and with further developments in electric propulsion underway, HAV expects that Airlander 10 will be the world’s first large scale aircraft to achieve zero-emissions flight. Under a landmark partnership Air Nostrum Group has reserved ten 100-seat Airlander 10 aircraft for delivery from 2026 onwards, with a view to begin operations as launch airline. While the Air Nostrum Airlander 10 fleet is set for initial operations across Spain, HAV plans to launch production of the aircraft in South Yorkshire this year, creating thousands of skilled jobs in green aerospace technologies and supporting levelling up across the region. The reservation agreement follows six months of rigorous studies and modelling carried out by Air Nostrum Group and HAV into the operation of Airlander 10 on Spanish domestic aviation routes and the associated economics. Airlander 10 aircraft are expected to diversify and complement Air Nostrum Group’s existing aircraft fleet currently operating on these routes, carrying 100 passengers while producing only around one tenth of the emissions associated with conventional aircraft.

Courts close Boston shop for three months after discovery of illegal tobacco haul

Stuart Pearcey
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Courts close Boston shop for three months after discovery of illegal tobacco haul

Lincoln Magistrates have slapped a closure order on EuroPlus, of West Street, Boston, under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

The order came after Lincolnshire Trading Standards and Police discovered 10,400 cigarettes, 3kg of hand rolling tobacco and 324 illegal vapes hidden in a ceiling Sergeant Ian Cotton said: “In this shop, specialist detection dogs were used. One of the best noses in the business detected a hide in the ceiling of the premises, within which were illicit cigarettes. These hides are controlled electronically and installed at great expense. “This should send a strong message, there is nowhere you can hide these illicit goods that cannot be detected by these brilliant animals. We will continue to work with our partners to close these shops as for as long as current legislation allows, offering a fair chance to the honest business owners of Boston.” Andy Wright, Senior Trading Standards Officer, added: “The response from the public to our initial shop closures two weeks ago was very encouraging.  We requested the court to issue a closure order for the maximum period of three months. The court have had little hesitation in granting that request. The premises are all leased by tenants. Whilst the shops remain closed, we will work with landlords to ensure criminal activity does not continue once the premises re-opens. If that doesn’t happen, we will have little hesitation in asking for an extension to the closure.”

Millions in government funding confirmed for transformational Boston projects

Tess Egginton
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Millions in government funding confirmed for transformational Boston projects
Transformational multi-million-pound projects for Boston have been given the go-ahead by the government. The confirmations mean that Boston is set to get a bespoke learning centre for adults, and a redeveloped leisure complex. In addition, Boston train station will be refurbished. These projects have been given the green light after the Boston Town Deal Board submitted business cases to the government. The approval of summary documents and associated business cases is part of the process for accessing the Towns Fund investment, which was announced for Boston in 2021, with the agreement of a Town Deal worth £21.9m. Boston’s confirmations come as projects for Skegness and Mablethorpe have also been given the go-ahead after town deals were also agreed for Skegness £24.5m, and Mablethorpe £23.9m. Neil Kempster, chair of Boston Town Deal Board, said: “The approval of the remaining business cases by the government is a hugely significant milestone for our town. “With the confirmation of all of the funding, we can now move forward with delivering these projects which will be truly transformational for our area. “Through these projects, our learning and leisure offer in Boston will be hugely enhanced, and the experience of both residents and visitors at our railway station, a crucial gateway into the town, will be improved. “The Town Deal funding and projects present Boston with a once in a generation opportunity to bring sustainable change to our town and I am excited to see these projects develop as we move into delivery.” Matt Warman, MP for Boston and Skegness, said: “The confirmation that Boston and Skegness have secured almost £50 million in Government funding is a reflection not only of the Government-recognised need for ‘Levelling up’ in places like ours but also the quality of the work carried out by both the Boston Town Deal board and the Connected Coast Board. “I am confident that the projects selected, which met strict criteria around driving growth through skills, land use and connectivity, will begin to deliver real, visible improvements to our towns – and are only the start of the continued transformational funding this Government has recognised our area needs and deserves.” Councillor Paul Skinner, leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “This is an exciting time for Boston, as we look to enhance the offering for our communities by providing newly refurbished facilities within the town centre. This will deliver long lasting positive change for Boston and our residents. “These projects will also help meet our corporate ambitions; providing affordable and accessible leisure opportunities for all and to promote Boston’s economy, industry and opportunities.” The confirmation of the business cases means that in Boston a new bespoke learning centre for adults will be developed that will include higher education in a unique learning environment aimed at being inclusive to the whole community. Led by Boston College, the ‘Mayflower’ will enable business and learners to connect, create, and innovate. Almost £10m has been confirmed for this project. Claire Foster, principal and CEO of Boston College, said: “We are thrilled and delighted to be given the green light for Mayflower, an iconic building that will be an inspirational beacon for skills, enterprise and innovation in Boston. We are looking forward to taking the project forward, to provide a space that welcomes our communities to learn, develop and thrive for the benefit of the whole town and the wider region.” And, next to the new Mayflower there will be a redeveloped leisure complex which will provide additional facilities which forms part of a transformational development of this area of the town. In addition, Boston train station will be extensively refurbished by East Midlands Railway. Improvements will include a full refurbishment of the main station building and external areas, reconfiguring the layout to best utilise the space to include new community and start up business facilities. Lisa Angus, transition and projects director for EMR, said: “We’re delighted the investment at Boston and Skegness Railway Stations has been approved. As gateways to both towns, the enhancements at the Railway Stations will be transformative to the surrounding communities, offering an improved customer experience to all station visitors. We’re looking forward to start work on the extensive refurbishments, which include community spaces, cafés, customer waiting facilities, retail units, accessible toilets and much more.” As well as the Towns Funding from government, all of the projects will also benefit from match funding meaning the investment for Boston will be even higher. The confirmation of the projects comes after government approval was given earlier this year to Boston for the release of £2m in Town Deal funding for the Centre for Food and Fresh Produce Logistics and almost £4m for investment in town centre buildings. £802K was also confirmed for developing the Blenkin Memorial Hall, and £228k for St Botolph’s library and lighting. In addition, Boston received early funding – called accelerated funding of £750k in 2020 to bring projects forward.

Multi-million-pound Mablethorpe and Skegness projects given the go-ahead by government

Tess Egginton
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Multi-million-pound Mablethorpe and Skegness projects given the go-ahead by government

Transformational multi-million-pound projects for Mablethorpe and Skegness have been given the go-ahead by the government.

The confirmations mean that in Mablethorpe, the Colonnade at Sutton on Sea will be redeveloped, and the town will get a new leisure centre and digital learning complex. And, the town centre will benefit from improvements, whilst a new visitor hub at Sandilands will be created. Meanwhile, Skegness is set to get a new high quality learning campus, and Skegness Foreshore will benefit from investment. In addition, the town centre and Skegness Railway station will see improvements, and, one of the first culture houses is set to be created at the Embassy Theatre. The projects have been given the green light after the Connected Coast Town Deal Board submitted business cases to the government. The approval of summary documents and associated business cases is part of the process for accessing the Towns Fund investment, which was announced for the two towns in 2021, with Mablethorpe agreeing a town deal worth £23.9m, and Skegness £24.5m. Mablethorpe and Skegness’s confirmations come as projects for Boston have also been given the go-ahead after a town deal of £21.9m was agreed for the town. Chris Baron, chair of Connected Coast, said: “We are thrilled that the projects that we have proposed for Skegness and Mablethorpe can now go ahead. “We have much to be proud of in Skegness and Mablethorpe, and this multi-million-pound funding for both our towns will allow us to enhance, develop, and improve what we have to offer for both residents and tourists alike. “We have shaped these projects based on what we understand our communities need, including from public engagement, and we are now set to deliver a broad array of interventions that will improve leisure, learning, travel, and the overall experiences in our town centres. “With the government confirmations, we can now get started on delivering these improvements which will bring enormous benefits in the coming years.” Matt Warman, MP for Boston and Skegness, said: “The confirmation that Boston and Skegness have secured almost £50 million in Government funding is a reflection not only of the Government-recognised need for ‘Levelling up’ in places like ours but also the quality of the work carried out by both the Boston Town Deal board and the Connected Coast Board. “I am confident that the projects selected, which met strict criteria around driving growth through skills, land use and connectivity, will begin to deliver real, visible improvements to our towns – and are only the start of the continued transformational funding this Government has recognised our area needs and deserves.” Victoria Atkins, MP for Louth and Horncastle, said: “I am delighted that these projects have been given the stamp of approval by the Government. This significant milestone brings us closer to shovels being in the ground. The Mablethorpe Towns Deal will bring landmark investment to Mablethorpe and the surrounding area providing new services and attractions. I will continue to work on progressing these projects and those still being considered by Government. I thank all those involved with delivering these projects.” Councillor Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: “I am delighted that we have been given the go-ahead by Government for these projects. These will be incredible investments in our towns, with partnerships formed with other organisations. “Exciting things are to come and I am really looking forward to these progressing and come to life for the benefit and enjoyment of our local communities and the millions of visitors we welcome to our district for many years to come.” With the confirmations, in Mablethorpe, the Colonnade at Sutton on Sea will be redeveloped. The new scheme will construct a landmark building that will introduce a new café, restaurant, gallery and exhibition spaces alongside new day let beach huts and seasonal overnight lodges after £4.1m Towns Fund grant award was approved for this project. And, a new purpose-built leisure centre and digital learning complex is set to be developed on the site of the current Station Sports Centre in Mablethorpe. In addition, Mablethorpe town centre will be transformed through a programme of shopfront and building repairs and improvements, and public realm enhancements. Greg Pickup, Chief Executive of Heritage Lincolnshire, said: “This unparalleled investment in Mablethorpe’s heritage demonstrates that Lincolnshire’s rich history can and should be at the forefront of future growth in our county. I am delighted to see that the Town Deal proposal for Mablethorpe recognises the need to support our struggling town centres and high streets, which are crucial to the country’s recovery from Covid and its future growth. “I am enormously proud of the hard work of my team, whose efforts alongside that of a broad partnership, including East Lindsey District Council have helped secure a frankly staggering sum for heritage in Mablethorpe. This once-in-a-generation investment truly will transform the town centre and ensure that Mablethorpe’s heritage assets are fit for the future and available to all.” Finally, with the National Trust, a sustainable visitor hub with a range of accessible facilities will be developed to enhance explorations of the Sandilands Nature Reserve and the local area. Kirsty James, general manager for Sandilands, said: “We are thankful that Towns Fund funding has been secured with support from the Connected Coast board. We are putting connections between nature and people at the very heart of the reserve. With this funding, carbon-neutral developments can take place on the former clubhouse. This will include a changing place and a new food and beverage offer.” In addition to the above, Mablethorpe are progressing its ‘Campus for Future Living’ project which is focussed on addressing significant health inequalities and will bring improved healthcare facilities and associated training and employment opportunities to the area. In Skegness, a new high-quality learning campus is set to be developed offering vocational skills training across a range of much needed subjects. The campus has been described as an ‘economic game changer’ for Skegness. A £14m Towns Fund grant award has been approved for this project. And, Skegness Foreshore will see underutilised areas of the Skegness Foreshore brought to life and new audiences for activities such as concerts, festivals, and outdoor cinema. In addition, Skegness town centre will benefit from a major facelift with improvements to the shop fronts, signage, and public realm, led by Heritage Lincolnshire. Greg Pickup, Chief Executive of Heritage Lincolnshire, said: “Skegness has an enduring appeal as one of the country’s most popular seaside towns where generations of families made memories. It is not generally known for its history, however evidence of its 20th century prosperity is everywhere, from the canopies adorning Lumley Road buildings to beautiful 1930s bronze-framed shopfronts that our grandparents would have promenaded past. “So much of Skegness’s heritage from its 20th century heyday survives but has since been obscured or neglected and it is long overdue to bring this to light. We’re excited to be working with the Town Deal board and business owners to help showcase the town’s proud seaside heritage and uncover the underappreciated beauty and history of Skegness. Watch this space!” As the gateway to the Lincolnshire coast, Skegness railway station will benefit from transformational improvements including restoration of the redundant Red Star building and reconfiguration of the station layout to best utilise the space. Lisa Angus, transition and projects director for EMR, said: “We’re delighted the investment at Boston and Skegness Railway Stations has been approved. As gateways to both towns, the enhancements at the Railway Stations will be transformative to the surrounding communities, offering an improved customer experience to all station visitors. We’re looking forward to start work on the extensive refurbishments, which include community spaces, cafés, customer waiting facilities, retail units, accessible toilets and much more.” Finally, one of the first culture houses in the country will be created at the Embassy Theatre in Skegness and enhance its support for new arts and cultural activities. As well as the Towns Funding from government, all of the projects will also benefit from match funding meaning the investment for Mablethorpe and Skegness will be even higher. In Skegness, two previously approved projects under the Towns Fund have been completed. The former magistrates court repurposed into a police training facility which will operate across the east of Lincolnshire for the training and continuing professional development of police personnel. And, a new multi-user trail connecting Chapel St Leonards and Ingoldmells to provide a series of cycling, walking and public transport connections. In addition, Mablethorpe and Skegness received early funding – called accelerated funding – of £500k and £750k respectively in 2020 to bring projects forward.

Industry 4.0 Hub planned for Brighouse

Tess Egginton
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Industry 4.0 Hub planned for Brighouse
The Brighouse Deal is set to put high-tech manufacturing at the heart of the town’s future by creating an Industry 4.0 Hub where small and medium sized businesses can explore how digital technology can improve their productivity and increase innovation. Calderdale College is leading the delivery of the project alongside the University of Huddersfield, Textile Centre of Excellence, West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services and Calderdale & Kirklees Manufacturing Alliance. The Hub, set to be housed at Kirkdale House and Calderdale College’s newly established Engineering Centre on the Armytage Road Industrial Estate, will be kitted out with high-tech equipment to showcase augmented reality, advanced manufacturing and robotics. The new site will have capacity for 70 apprenticeships to be delivered as part of the Deal project, and a range of new short training programmes designed to help employers upskill their current workforce will be offered to those already pursuing a career in manufacturing. This development of a ‘living lab’ will aim to provide support to the town’s existing small, medium and micro-business community. The Brighouse Deal, led by the Brighouse Town Deal Board and Calderdale Council, is due to bring £19 million of investment with a series of projects including revitalising the market, developing Thornton Square and improving the town centre to encourage visitors and shoppers to stay longer and spend more. The plans are currently being developed with business cases due to be submitted to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities by the end of July. Assuming funding is provided, it is anticipated the delivery of projects will begin in 2023. The Industry 4.0 Hub is a key part of the Deal’s ambition to not just improve the town for today, but to ensure it is a catalyst for further investment in the years to come. When established, it is likely the Hub will be the only facility of its kind in Yorkshire dedicated to supporting Industry 4.0 digital technologies with an exclusive focus on small and medium sized businesses. Ebrahim Dockrat, commercial services and partnership director at Calderdale College, said: “We are excited about the potential that the Industry 4.0 Hub will bring to Brighouse. Uniting to support the development and retention of highly skilled labour will, in turn, contribute to the economic growth of the manufacturing sector across the district. “The funding will be a magnet for further investment, allowing the area to continue upskilling and work to reduce income inequality between Brighouse and the wider region. Calderdale College is proud to be leading the project and looks forward to working with our partners, businesses across the town, Calderdale Council and the Brighouse Town Deal Board to deliver real change in the local area.” David Whitehead, co-chair of The Brighouse Town Deal Board and Managing Director of Brighouse-based specialist textile finishers H & C Whitehead, said: “Brighouse has such a proud and strong manufacturing heritage, so it is exciting to see a key part of the Deal being to ensure it has an equally proud and strong future in the town, with a particular focus on the small and growing businesses who are the engine room of our economy. “By funding training for young people, and providing facilities for growth, sharing skills and collaboration across Brighouse, there will be more opportunities available making our town an even more attractive place to work, stay and progress. “It will be a catalyst for investment in our town and is another important way the £19 million the Brighouse Deal will bring to our town is unlocking so much more potential.” Cllr Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for towns, engagement and public health, said: “Through our Vision2024 for Calderdale, we want to be a place where everyone can reach their potential. The Industry 4.0 Hub will bring exciting new opportunities for local people and businesses, supporting our inclusive economic recovery and building on Brighouse’s strengths and our long local history of manufacturing to become a more enterprising and talented town.”

Significant step forward for Humber power station project

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Significant step forward for Humber power station project
A project in the Humber which could become the UK’s first flexible power station equipped with carbon capture technology has taken a significant step forward. SSE Thermal and Equinor have officially awarded a Front End Engineering Design (FEED) contract for the proposed Keadby 3 Carbon Capture Power Station to a consortium comprising Aker Solutions, Siemens Energy and Doosan Babcock, with Aker Carbon Capture supporting on the carbon capture technology. Over the next 12 months, the consortium will deliver a detailed plan for the proposed plant in North Lincolnshire – which would have a generating capacity of up to 910MW – bringing their vast technological expertise to bear on the engineering design of the power station. Keadby 3 could become the UK’s first power station equipped with a carbon capture plant to remove CO2 from its emissions and would connect into the East Coast Cluster’s CO2 transport and storage infrastructure, which underpins plans to deliver one of the UK’s first low-carbon industrial clusters. The UK Government has set ambitious targets for the country to become a world leader in carbon capture and storage, and Keadby 3 could play a pivotal role with the ability to capture up to 1.5MT of carbon annually, around five per cent of the Government’s 2030 target. SSE Thermal has a long history of investment at the Keadby site. In addition to operating the existing Keadby 1 Power Station, it has partnered with Siemens Energy on the delivery of Keadby 2 Power Station which will be Europe’s most-efficient gas-fired power station when it enters full commercial operation later this year. Catherine Raw, Managing Director of SSE Thermal, said: “Our ambition with Keadby 3 is to deliver one of the UK’s first power stations equipped with carbon capture and through awarding this contract we continue to build momentum behind that goal. “The proposed low-carbon plant at Keadby would not only provide vital flexible power while backing up renewables, it could also play a key role in meeting decarbonisation targets. The reality is that multiple power-CCS projects will be needed to reach net zero and we hope to see the UK Government recognise that when it provides an update on Cluster Sequencing this summer.” Grete Tveit, senior vice president for Low Carbon Solutions at Equinor, said: “The award of the FEED contract by Keadby 3 Carbon Capture Power Station is an important milestone and builds momentum to make the Humber one of the world’s first net zero industrial regions by 2040. “We look forward to working with Aker Solutions, Siemens Energy and Doosan Babcock to deliver what could be the UK’s first power station equipped with carbon capture to remove CO2 from its emissions. Just as important, Keadby 3 will also provide tangible benefits for local supply chain, while securing jobs in the region.” Jason Brown, senior vice president of UK Renewables at Aker Solutions, said: “We, along with our consortium partners, are excited to be contributing to this crucial project which will significantly advance carbon capture in the UK. Together with Siemens Energy and Doosan Babcock, we’re drawing on collective strengths and over 450 years of combined industry experience to power the UK’s net zero journey.” SSE Thermal and Equinor are also working in collaboration on two further projects in the Humber. Keadby Hydrogen would be the world’s first 100% hydrogen-fuelled power station while Aldbrough Hydrogen Storage, located in East Yorkshire, would be one of the world’s largest hydrogen storage facilities. The two companies are also developing Peterhead Carbon Capture Power Station, situated on the Aberdeenshire coast in Scotland.

Pure Block Management appointed to manage historic property in Hull’s Old Town

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Pure Block Management appointed to manage historic property in Hull’s Old Town
Hull-based property specialist Pure Block Management has been appointed to manage a residential development in the city’s Old Town with historic links to the fishing industry. Samman House on Bowlalley Lane was built in the late 1800s as the office of the Deddington Steamship Company, owned by Henry Samman. Originally known as Deddington Chambers, the building was gifted in 1919 to the Hull Chamber of Commerce and Shipping. In 2013 it was converted to eight apartments by M2 Property Development, which has chosen Pure Block Management to ensure the smooth running of the development, from day-to-day property maintenance and repairs to financial and legal management. Pure Block Management director Liam Parker said: “We’re delighted to add such a distinctive property to the growing list of developments we manage. “Whether a block has eight apartments or 80, leaseholders and residents expect the highest standards of accommodation and at Pure Block Management we pride ourselves on providing a responsive service so that communal areas and facilities are well-maintained at all times and potential issues are dealt with promptly. “As well as many of the newer residential developments across the region, we also manage a number of listed and historic properties like Samman House, which require specialist knowledge and skills when it comes to maintenance and repairs.” Megan Hetherington, director at M2 Property Development, said: “The team at Pure Block Management took over management of another development we had involvement in and were very professional in their approach. “They have made great improvements to that development and its finances, so when we needed a specialist to manage Samman House we knew where to turn.” The apartment complex includes an impressive stained-glass window, which was part of a magnificent council chamber Henry Samman erected at the rear of the building upon gifting it to the Chamber of Commerce. The apartments themselves are all named after vessels once owned by Henry Samman, including Bonnie Kate, Knight Templar and Elf. Pure Block Management is part of Yorkshire-based property firm Garness Group.

Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL steps down as LEP chair

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Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL steps down as LEP chair
Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL has been praised for having made “a huge contribution to businesses and communities across West Yorkshire,” after he formally stepped down as chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership Board (LEP). Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL was Knighted in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2021 for services to business, economy, and the community across North and in West Yorkshire. He has been chair of the LEP since 2013 and has led the organisation through a period of significant transformation, including securing the country’s largest ever Local Growth Deal with Government. This £1 billion-plus agreement is being used to help transform the region’s economy by improving transport networks, building more housing and supporting businesses to grow and develop. Sir Roger was also instrumental in agreeing the West Yorkshire devolution deal and in bringing Channel 4’s new National HQ and news centre to Leeds. He is also chair of the Trust which operates the Piece Hall in Halifax and has played a major role in promoting the Grade 1 listed building nationally and internationally. Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “I want to thank Sir Roger for his tireless commitment to promoting and developing our region and for everything he has helped achieve to make West Yorkshire a better place to live, work and be in business.” Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL added: “I feel proud and privileged to have chaired the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership Board. As a team, we have improved the performance of our region’s economy and given West Yorkshire a confidence to face the future. “Our economy has developed so that, pre-pandemic, we became a net contributor to the exchequer and we will be again, and I am proud of the work we have done as a Board to support this. “I believe that West Yorkshire is a region of ideas and innovation and I’m delighted that, at the conclusion of my tenure, this is being recognised via things like Bradford being named 2025 City of Culture and Bradford University’s recent ranking as the best in the world for its welcome to international students. “I’d like to thank everyone who has served alongside me on the LEP Board for their friendship and fellowship. There is still work to be done but I believe the future is bright for West Yorkshire and the North.” Bradford City Council leader and chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Councillor Susan Hinchliffe, said: “Sir Roger Marsh has done so much for West Yorkshire and we are better for it. He has also shown that, as a region we need to reach further and faster and I would like to thank him for all his work.” Kirklees Council leader, Councillor Shabir Pandoor, said: “The way in which Sir Roger Marsh has brought together West Yorkshire’s local authority leaders with the private sector has been very powerful and beneficial. The Leeds City Region Enterprise partnership is recognised in many quarters as the best Local Enterprise Partnership in the country and that’s due to Sir Roger’s passion and energy.” Mark Roberts, newly appointed interim chair of the LEP Board and founder of Beer Hawk, said: “Sir Roger Marsh leaves a genuine legacy of partnership between the private sector and the public sector. Those of us who continue to work within the LEP team hope to be able to continue and build on this in the future.”
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