News: National recognition for Rotherham town centre

Rotherham has been successful in the best town centre category in the Great British High Streets Awards, a Government-backed competition to find and celebrate the nation's best high streets.

The competition is run by the Future High Street Forum, which brings together leaders across retail, property and business to advise the Government on the challenges facing high streets and helps to develop practical policies to enable town centres to adapt and change. It was established to help accelerate the programme of local mentoring established in response to the Portas review.

The forum created the awards to "recognise the real strides that some high streets are making, and the incredible diversity and services they provide to their local community."

21 finalists across the competition's seven categories had the chance to impress an expert judging panel and battle it out in the public vote to be crowned Britain's best.

Rotherham was named in the "Town Centre" category alongside Altrincham and Tamworth. Public votes contributed to 50% of the selection of the category winners, with the other 50% coming via the judging panel, made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business.

Rotherham was visited by Judge Alana Renner, deputy communications director at The Post Office, on November 5.

Bernadette Rushton, retail investment manager at Rotherham Council, said: "Despite what the name suggests, the competition isn't about saying we have the best High Street in the country or that we don't still have challenges to face, it's about recognising the work that has gone into regenerating the town.

"There has been a huge investment in the town centre from a number of partners, not least the retailers and building owners themselves and we hope to be able to show the judges just what fantastic businesses, old and new, we have here and just how far the town and High Street have come in recent years."

Organisers said that: "due to its incredible support for start-up businesses and local retailers, Rotherham has been recognised as a very worthy winner."

As a Portas pilot, Rotherham has used a package of funding to provide business and financial support to independent retailers and the use of pop-up shops and the Makers Emporium.

Charlotte Scothern, owner of Patchwork Pig, said: "It was such a boost for all the businesses that are trading here to see us shortlisted from 230 applications! The High Street and wider town has changed dramatically in recent years; the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has undoubtedly transformed some of our most impressive buildings. Many of my customers can’t believe the changes when they visit."

The impressive heritage-led regeneration of listed buildings on the High Street has seen 13 key properties have been renovated thanks to a total of a £4.7m investment from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Rotherham Council and the property owners. Some of the most prominent are part of the complex of mixed-used retail outlets focusing on listed buildings like The Three Cranes building and former Georgian Town House at 29-29a High Street created by local businessman, Chris Hamby.

Cllr. Denise Lelliott, Advisory Cabinet Member for Housing and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "We are delighted that the efforts to regenerate the town have been recognised in this national competition - having seen the other entries this is a huge honour. A number of partners have come together to make a real difference to the town centre and their hard work and belief in the High Street is paying off.

"A combination of restoring the town's historic core, creating high quality public spaces and supporting independent retailers to help differentiate our offer has been a winning formula.

"The response from shoppers and residents has been fantastic, our success in this competition is thanks to their support and the fact that so many people voted for the town is a huge boost to everyone working and running a business in the town centre."

Rotherham's win means a share of a prize pot worth £80,000, alongside expert training and tailor-made tips from Google’s training taskforce – the Digital Garage on Tour – for 100 of their shops, bars and restaurants.

Rotherham town centre website

Images: Tom Austen

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News: No decision on South Yorkshire HS2 station location

As the Government announces that the HS2 route connecting Crewe to Birmingham is to open six years ahead of schedule, South Yorkshire will have to wait until next year to even find out where a proposed station will be located.

In the recent Autumn Statement, the Government confirmed that construction will begin on HS2, the high speed North to South rail link, during this Parliament and has been given a funding envelope of £55.7 billion in 2015 prices. It should reach Birmingham in 2026 and Manchester and Leeds by 2033.

South Yorkshire is included on the route to Leeds with plans including the proposed location of a HS2 station at Meadowhall announced in 2013.

The location was backed by Rotherham Council, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber and the South Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority (SYITA) - the precursor to a Sheffield City Region Combined Authority.

In response to the government's consultation, Sheffield City Council said that it is strongly opposed to the proposed route and believes that the current preferred station location chosen by Government is a mistake. Instead, a vision for an HS2 station at Victoria, closer to Sheffield city centre is being put forward.

Whilst vocal in its support for HS2 coming to the city region, the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has declined to commit to backing a specific site for a South Yorkshire station and instead has reiterated its stance that the location should be based on achieving the greatest economic benefit.

This week, Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin MP, gave an update to Parliament, discussing plans that should see the link connecting Crewe to Birmingham opening in 2027, and plans for a new hub station in the centre of Leeds, to connect HS2 to existing rail services in a single station - an interesting change to previous proposals.

On the issue of South Yorkshire, the Transport Secretary said: "Sheffield Meadowhall was the Government's preferred station location in the Phase Two route consultation. The evidence continues to suggest that this is likely to be the best way of serving the wider South Yorkshire region and we are working with the National Infrastructure Commission and Transport for the North on the possible interfaces with Northern Powerhouse rail. However, we acknowledge there are arguments in favour of a city centre location and continue to examine relevant analysis."

"We continue to make good progress on our plans for the rest of HS2 Phase Two serving Manchester, East Midlands, South Yorkshire and Leeds and will make a decision on the route in autumn 2016."

A decision had been expected this year, which had been pushed back to Spring 2016.

Last year, Sir David Higgins, chairman of HS2 Ltd, reiterated his view that Sheffield Meadowhall is the right answer for the South Yorkshire hub on the proposed HS2 line but admits the final decision is "finely balanced."

The Sheffield City Region (SCR) Transport Executive Board (TEB), part of the region's combined authority has taken on the lead role on HS2 through a HS2 Programme Board. It has a key output to "secure local and national agreement on SCR station location" and is working on a connectivity package to maximise the benefits of HS2 and the surrounding growth area.

As part of the latest devolution deal, it was agreed that the Sheffield City Region should get more control over the planning and delivery of local transport schemes, particularly in preparation for HS2.

HS2 Ltd website

Images: HS2 Ltd

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News: AMID proposal wins enterprise award

Proposals for a Sheffield-Rotherham Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMID) have won an award that explores the opportunities of city devolution. And the cash prize is being used to help young people from the Sheffield City Region get the chance to secure employment.

A submission based on the idea of developing Europe's largest research-led advanced manufacturing cluster to the Lambert Smith Hampton Enterprise Award has been successful, highlighting how the property industry can play a central role in shaping the future of the UK. The award, which has a total prize fund of £15,000, was judged by a panel of leading experts from across the industry.

Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) developers Harworth Estates and Sheffield Business Park submitted the entry and have announced they will match the prize money to create a £30,000 fund to enable local young people that aren't in education, employment or training, to get apprenticeships with local advanced manufacturers and a place at the AMRC Training Centre.

Iain Thomson, partnerships manager at Harworth Estates, said: "Using the prize money for this purpose made complete sense. Developing future talent is the only way we'll achieve sustainable economic growth for the region and the AMRC is a world-leading institution in making this happen."

Graham Sadler, managing director at Sheffield Business Park that is being delivered in joint venture with Peel Land & Property, said: "It is incredibly important that we have sufficient people from this region with the right skills to take jobs in growing sectors. The AMRC Training Centre has built up an enviable record for enabling young people to gain those skills, so it was the natural choice to make the best out of our award success."

The entry explained how devolution would be used to support the growth of advanced manufacturing in the region and how others from across the UK could apply similar principles to grow other high-value industries elsewhere.

Prof. Keith Ridgway CBE, executive dean at the AMRC, said: "Their decision to use the prize money and then match it with their own contribution to help young people to get jobs and learn advanced manufacturing skills recognises how important creating a new generation of talented youngsters is to the success of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District and the contribution it can make to the economy of the region and the UK.

He also praised the award-winning entry's calls for greater collaboration between property specialists and universities to develop sites that boost UK competitiveness by encouraging knowledge transfer.

"That is exactly what is already happening on the Advanced Manufacturing Park and Sheffield Business Park and will be one of the foundations of success of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District," said Prof Ridgway.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, The AMRC Training Centre forms part of the University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) group and provides training in the practical and academic skills that manufacturing companies need to compete globally, from apprenticeship through to doctorate and MBA level.

Kerry Featherstone, head of operations at the AMRC Training Centre, said: "We are already training 20 apprentices working for SMEs whose salaries are supported by Close Brothers, the merchant bank, as part of a programme to fuel SME expansion by recruiting the best young talent.

"We have also worked with the Prince's Trust and Boeing on a programme aimed at young people aged 16 to 25 who are not in education, training or employment and designed to give them a flavour of what it takes to be an apprentice and embark on a rewarding career in manufacturing.

"We will use the same principles to make the most of this generous gift resulting from the award-winning success Haworth Estates and Sheffield Business Park secured on behalf of the AMID."

Harworth Estates website
Sheffield Business Park website
AMRC Training Centre website

Images: AMRC Bond Bryan

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News: Airbus research boss lands new job at AMRC

The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing, is gearing up for further growth at home and abroad, unveiling a new corporate structure and appointing a high-flying chief executive officer.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) and a partner in the HVM Catapult (the government's strategic initiative that aims to revitalise the manufacturing industry), the AMRC focuses on advanced machining and materials research for aerospace and other high-value manufacturing sectors. It is a partnership between industry and academia, which has become a model for research centres worldwide.

It is a year since Prof Keith Ridgway CBE, executive dean of the AMRC, outlined plans for the ground-breaking centre to more than double its turnover to in excess of £80m over the next five years.

Colin Sirett head of research for Airbus in the UK and a long-time supporter of the work of the AMRC will take over as CEO from the start of February.

Following his appointment, executive dean Prof Keith Ridgway, CBE, commercial director Adrian Allen, OBE, and projects director, John Baragwanath, OBE, will become executive directors of the AMRC Group.

The group spans all of the 560 employee, £50m turnover operations of the AMRC and the Nuclear AMRC, the AMRC Training Centre, AMRC Casting Centre and Cti Ltd.

Prof Ridgway, said: "We've experienced phenomenal growth since we started out with just a dozen people 14 years ago, but every time we think about consolidating, more opportunities come along.

"This year alone we have embarked on a major development on Sheffield Business Park, expanded our training centre, started building the biggest facility for making aerospace components in Europe and launched a joint venture to establish an AMRC in Korea.

"We are in talks about taking the AMRC brand to other regions and other parts of the world and we continue to see opportunities to expand our core operations.

"As executive directors of the AMRC Group, Adrian, John and myself will focus on developing the AMRC brand, expanding the AMRC in new locations and developing major new initiatives – all of which should bolster the Sheffield region's place at the heart of global innovation in advanced manufacturing.

"Colin Sirett will be a tremendous asset for the AMRC. He shares the AMRC's aims and ambitions and understands our culture.

"He has already made a major contribution to our success, not least as a key member of the team that helped Messier Dowty win the order to supply the landing gear for the Boeing 787, which was a critical event in the formation and growth of the AMRC."

In addition to being head of research for Airbus in the UK, Colin Sirett is chairman of the National Composites Centre steering board and deputy chairman of the Aerospace Technology Institute Technology Advisory Group. He is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and sits on the Learned Society Board. Prior to becoming director of research for Airbus, he was head of the landing gear product delivery team for the A350XWB Programme.

Airbus joined the AMRC as a Tier One member having previously worked together on the Integrated Wing Project, a previous R&D project lead by Airbus. They are both partners in a project to develop a new corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy for the possible use in future landing gear components.

Colin Sirett (pictured) said: "The AMRC has grown over the last 14 years by delivering technology and productivity impacts direct into global industries. This growth will continue, and it is an honour and privilege to be part of steering the enterprise through its next chapter, and ensuring the next generation of engineers are an intrinsic part of that growth."

Professor Ridgway added: "With Colin now in post and Mike Tynan, former CEO of Westinghouse leading nuclear developments as the CEO of the Nuclear AMRC we have a tremendous management team in place with experience of leading major global organisations and a team capable of taking the AMRC to our next stage of development."

In addition to Sirett's appointment, the head of the AMRC's Machining Group, Dr Sam Turner becomes AMRC chief technical officer. Dr Turner is an authority on machining Titanium alloys, and holds a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sheffield in addition to his PhD in Titanium machining.

As CTO he will develop technologies and projects across the AMRC and work closely with the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, a consortium of seven leading manufacturing and process research centres, backed by the UK's innovation agency, Innovate UK.

In addition to becoming an executive director, John Baragwanath becomes interim director of the Medical AMRC, following the retirement of Derek Boaler. Prof Ridgway said: "Derek did excellent setting up both the AMRC's Design & Prototyping Centre and the Medical AMRC and we wish him well in his retirement."

AMRC website

Images: AMRC

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News: Beatson Clark bottles for Basque-based brewers

The latest export deal for Rotherham glass manufacturer, Beatson Clark will see its bottles used for innovative beers being brewed in San Sebastián, Span.

The Greasborough Road firm, which has been making glass bottles and jars in Rotherham since 1751, specialises in providing glass packaging solutions for niche brands in the food, drink and pharmaceutical markets worldwide.

The firm's standard 330ml amber beer bottles with a standard crown neck finish, have bee selected by the Basqueland Brewing Project (BPP), a new brewery set up earlier this year by three Americans at the forefront of the craft brewing movement in Spain.

The idea for BBP was born when Kevin Patricio, a chef who runs La Madame restaurant in San Sebastián, commented to his wine supplier Benjamin Rozzi on the lack of high-quality beer available to his customers.

When he added a craft beer list to the menu sales took off, so Patricio and Rozzi invited brewer Ben Matz to Spain to help them create a new brewery. Matz had been senior brewer at Stone Brewing in San Diego and Wendlandt Cerveceria in Mexico, and he is now head brewer and co-owner at BBP.

Benjamin Rozzi, co-founder of BPP, said: "We chose Beatson Clark's bottle because of its quality. It was an easy decision because there is a night and day difference in the quality of Beatson Clark's bottles and those of its competitors.

"At BBP we strive to make the freshest and highest quality beers available in our marketplace, and these bottles will help us to achieve that."

Charlotte Taylor, marketing manager at Beatson Clark, said: "The craft brewing sector is a big growth area for us, not just in the UK but all over the world. We now supply our beer bottles across Europe and to the United States – wherever the craft beer revolution is taking hold.

"Now that our new amber furnace is in full production we have additional capacity to meet the demand from this rapidly growing sector.

"We're known in the industry for combining quality products and service with the flexibility that small breweries need. The craft beer sector is a perfect fit for our small production runs and flexible approach."

The new £6.5m amber glass furnace at its Rotherham site has a larger melting area, improving Beatson Clark's capacity to supply the growing market for craft beer bottles both in the UK and overseas. The melting area in the furnace has been increased by more than 6 sq m and can produce around 200 tonnes of glass per day.

Beatson Clark website

Images: Beatson Clark

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News: Sheffield Business Park looking to expand - in Rotherham

Discussions are taking place to enable the successful Sheffield Business Park to expand further into Rotherham, with the potential to create 800 jobs.

The site of the former Sheffield airport is already home to the likes of Stanley Black & Decker, SIG and ITM Power and is seen as key to the potential Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMID) with the University of Sheffield recently gaining outline planning approval for an advanced manufacturing campus.

Phase 2, a joint venture with Peel Land and Property, has the potential to accommodate a further 1.5m sq ft of manufacturing and research and development accommodation. The site is part of the Sheffield City Region Enterprise Zone where financial incentives include a business rate discount worth up to £275,000 per eligible business over a five year period.

Part of the site actually crosses the boundary into the Rotherham local authority district and has seen the development of The Car People and the Mercure Sheffield Parkway hotel to the East of the Europa Link.

7.4 hectares (18 acres) in Rotherham is yet to be developed as it was placed in the greenbelt to secure a clear area of land at the end of the former Sheffield City Airport runway. With the airport's closure and development of the Factory 2050 on the runway, plans are now being discussed for the future use of the site and Rotherham Council has it already earmarked for employment use in the latest version of its Local Plan.

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Planning consultants, Turley, have begun discussions with Rotherham Council and are expected to submit a masterplan that includes four plots, with a range of industrial uses, with the potential for buildings from to 9,500 sq ft to 108,000 sq ft. It is estimated that the space could provide 826 jobs.

Prominently positioned next to the Parkway, the site would function as a gateway to a hub of sites, including Sheffield Business Park, Factory 2050, the AMRC Campus and the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP). The opportunity to meet requirements for another hotel, institutions and ancillary retail could also be included in plans.

In a letter seeking pre-application advice from Rotherham Council, Matthew Sheppard, director at Turley, said: "It is intended that the development will create a new gateway to the area; integrate the existing advanced manufacturing sites, as well as; adding to the critical mass of advanced manufacturing and supporting facilities in this area as the nucleus to AMID.

"The market for advanced manufacturing and R&D is strong, and the Enterprise Zone status of this area offers a clear incentive and competitive advantage to companies looking for new business premises. Requirements for advanced manufacturing have arisen very rapidly over the last year, and the pace of delivery has been equally speedy. It is necessary for plot or building options to be constantly available if the AMID is going to attract businesses which are internationally footloose.

"There are three inward investment projects currently interested in Sheffield Business Park, one of which is making locational choices between Sheffield and the Czech Republic. Without suitable sites with permissions in place which can quickly cater for this demand, opportunities will be lost, not just from the Sheffield City Region, but potentially also from the UK. It is for this reason that Sheffield Business Park wish to pursue an application at this stage."

One issue is the fact that the HS2 line is proposed to run through this site, with the draft route showing a railway cutting as the line passes under the Europa Link and A630 in a box.

Sheffield Business Park website

Images: Sheffield Business Park / Turley

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News: Reflex apprentice gets to work at college

Reflex Systems, the Rotherham-based integrated fire and security systems specialist, is investing in its future talent with an apprenticeship scheme.

The growing Hellaby firm provides a full project management service from consultancy and design services through to supplying products from providers of security and building management.

Apprentices work with a full spectrum of advanced security and safety technology, combining field experience with structured learning, including college and manufacturers' courses, in order to build solid proficiencies and high levels of competence.

Having already decided on a career in electrical and electronic engineering, Chloe Miller joined the Reflex Apprenticeship Scheme during the summer of 2015. She has spent the past two months further developing her skills and knowledge whilst working with the Installation and Commissioning teams on the new £21m Sixth Form and Construction College in the Centre of Barnsley.

Working under the guidance of the Fire Projects team and lead engineer, Chloe was given the opportunity to contribute effectively towards the successful completion and testing of site-wide fire safety systems, designed and engineered by Reflex across the two college sites. She has received glowing praise from engineering colleagues for the standard of her work on this new-build education project.

Chloe Miller, apprentice at Reflex Systems, said: "It's been brilliant putting all the theory I've been learning into practice. I've really enjoyed working on such an interesting project and knowing that my work will be a vital part of the college's staff and students' safety when it opens."

Reflex, whose previous projects include work at the 2012 Olympic Park, Leeds Arena and various hotels, is also looking to take on more graduates as part of its continued investment in new industry talent.

Reflex Systems website

Images: Reflex Systems

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News: Rotherham United are still firm favourites

Rotherham United has secured a deal with local manufacturers, Hodge Clemco Ltd, who will join the Championship club's family of business partners.

The South Yorkshire based company are one of the leading figures in the design and manufacture of surface preparation and finishing equipment.

Steve Coakley, commercial director at Rotherham United (pictured, centre), said: "We are thrilled to add Hodge Clemco to our list of commercial partners.

"We will be working closely with both Neal (Crisford) and Paul (Grattan) on numerous commercial projects going forward which will be of great benefit to both parties.

"Hodge Clemco are a successful and growing organisation and we are delighted to cement this by confirming them as one of our official Business Partners for the current 2015/2016 campaign."

Neal Crisford, Director of Hodge Clemco Ltd, added: "We're delighted to join the club via our business partner agreement.

"We have a workforce of close on 100 staff within this region, many of which are Millers fans, and we are thrilled to become involved with the club."

The Millers have also extended their deal with Norton Finance that will see them remain an associate partner of the club until at least the end of the 2016/17 season.

Based on Mansfield Road in the town centre, the family owned business operates as a group of companies including a profitable lending arm and divisions specialising in loans and mortgages and debt management. It employs around 240 people and celebrated its 40th birthday in 2013.

Keith Stringer, director of Norton Finance, said: "We are extremely pleased to continue our excellent relationship with Rotherham United and delighted to extend our support of the club for a further season. 

"We are looking forward to developing our existing partnership with the Millers and wish Neil Redfearn and the club every success for the future."

Rotherham United website
Hodge Clemco website
Norton Finance website

Images: RUFC

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News: Autumn Statement 2015

Rothbiz editor Tom Austen looks at the Government's latest spending review and what it means for businesses in Rotherham, the Sheffield city region and the Northern Powerhouse.

The u-turn on tax credits following a defeat in the House of Lords will probably grab the headlines for the Autumn Statement where the Chancellor George Osborne pledged a fair amount of spending based on favourable estimates from the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR).

The improvement to Government finances and continued cuts to the welfare budget meant that Osborne could state that his Government "were the builders" and pledge that £4 trillion of spending has been allocated over the next five years.

£12bn of investment is expected for infrastructure with the Department for Transport expecting cuts to day to day budgets but a big increase to capital budgets for big projects. The £46.7 billion includes HS2, roads and local transport plus the prospect of the completion of the electrification of the Midland Mainline which links London and the Sheffield city region.

Construction will begin on HS2, the high speed North to South rail link, during the Parliament and has been given a funding envelope of £55.7 billion in 2015 prices. It should reach Birmingham in 2026 and Manchester and Leeds by 2033. No announcement was made on the potential South Yorkshire station location.

The Northern Powerhouse got its first mention within minutes. In total, the Government said that it will spend £13 billion on transport in the North over this Parliament. Support has been pledged for Transport in the North that brings together the city regions of Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield. It should become a statuary body by 2017, with a £50m budget. £150m of funding has been confirmed to support the delivery of smart and integrated ticketing across local transport and rail services in the North.

Further devolution is expected on transport and in addition, the Sheffield City Region is set to get a share of the £12 billion Local Growth Fund to be spent under the direction of LEPs.

As previously announced, city-wide mayors (like the one we could have in 2016) will be able to add a premium to business rates to pay for new infrastructure.

Following a recent showcase of Northern projects in China, the Government will provide £15m of funding to support further Northern Powerhouse trade missions including to key emerging economies. A further £7m will fund a Northern Powerhouse Investment Taskforce but UKTI's budget has been cut.

Work is also taking place to create the £400m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund with the British Business Bank and LEPs in the North West, Yorkshire and the Humber and Tees Valley to invest in smaller businesses. It builds on the work of initiatives backed by European funds such as Finance Yorkshire.

Also for small businesses, the business rates relief has been extended for another year. For example 100% relief (doubled from the usual rate of 50%) is given for properties with a rateable value of £6,000 or less.

An update on the much-needed reform of business rates was not included in the statement but the Chancellor confirmed that councils will be able to keep money from business rates but the central government grant to local authorities continues to be reduced. Local areas will be able to cut business rates as much as they like, to win new jobs and generate wealth.

For specific sectors, it was confirmed that energy intensive industries such as steel will be exempt from the policy costs of the Renewables Obligation and Feed-in Tariffs, to ensure that they have long-term certainty and remain competitive. It may have come too late for Tata Steel.

Budgets have been maintained for Innovate UK (but it will give out loans rather than grants) and increased for Catapult Centres such as the AMRC and Nuclear AMRC. Opportunities for South Yorkshire were also highlighted through a £250m small modular reactor development and nuclear research programme, pioneered by the Nuclear AMRC. The Government also talks of £1 billion for innovation funding aerospace and automotive technologies for ten years.

On skills, further details were provided on the Apprenticeship levy where large companies will put into a £3 billion pot to fund three million apprentices. It will be set at a rate of 0.5% of an employer's paybill and will be paid through PAYE. Each employer will receive an allowance of £15,000 to offset against their levy payment. This means that the levy will only be paid on any paybill in excess of £3m.

Images: HM Treasury

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News: Italian job for Pyronix

Rotherham-based security experts, Pyronix is making an impact in the Italian market thanks to exhibition company, The Expo People.

Security systems manufacturer Pyronix has enjoyed average annual growth of between 10 to 15% thanks to international trade and the Hellaby firm is looking to replicate its UK success in export markets including Russia, Italy, Poland and South Africa.

With backing from Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) and RiDO, The Expo People was set up two years ago by international event specialist, Paul Tomes who has worked with events organisers around the world. It has since expanded into new premises in Sheffield city centre, taking on new staff and picking up new contracts.

The specialists recently delivered an exhibition project in Milan for the second year running for Pyronix Ltd. The exhibition – Sicurezza – is one of the biggest in Europe for the security sector and saw a significant growth in sales in the Italian market for Pyronix last year.

Such was the success of the exhibition, the company has now appointed a specialist marketing manager specifically for the region.

Julie Kenny CBE DL, chair and chief executive at Pyronix, said: "Italy has become an extremely important market for us – and Sicurezza has so far delivered almost £2m of orders for the company with clients right across Europe.

"We are always keen to work with local businesses and The Expo People have certainly delivered for us. Their management of the project meant we could get on with the process of building our commercial profile with potential customers – and we're looking forward to even more success following this year's exhibition."

The Expo People specialises in the design, build and project management of exhibition stands for shows across the globe.

Paul Tomes, managing director at The Expo People, said: "We're delighted to be working with Pyronix on their events programme. The company has a strong footprint in the UK and the next stage for them is growing their brand across European markets.

"The buzz we get from seeing a client leave an event, full of enthusiasm and excited about the work that they have done and impact they have made is extremely fulfilling. If our clients continue to be successful then we will grow, which is all the incentive we need to keep providing a quality service.

"When I established the business I built it around an ethos of developing partnerships with businesses – not quick fixes and not short term wins. That has stood us in good stead and whilst we are growing well, we are always interested to talk to businesses locally and nationally to see how we can support their exhibition needs."

Pyronix website
The Expo People

Images: Pyronix / twitter

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News: Gallery Town relaunch in Rotherham town centre

Rotherham regeneration project Gallery Town has undergone a refresh and brought 25 new artworks to Rotherham town centre.

In September 2011, Rotherham became Gallery Town when a group of local entrepreneurs got together to arrange for 60 large pieces of artwork – including work by Rotherham students, local artists and some of the world's greatest painters – to be installed in key outdoor locations around the town.

The latest additions include large scale installations of Johannes Vermeer's The Girl with a Pearl Earring, Edvard Munch's Scream and Soft Pressure by Kandinsky.

Gallery Town aims to use the medium of art and culture to help regenerate the town's culture and economy. The independent not-for-profit initiative has recently undergone a huge rebranding with a new logo and house font which can be seen on the "Welcome to Gallery Town" signs which have recently been installed on the platforms at Rotherham train station.

The signs were designed and donated by Rotherham-based graphic design studio, Idea UK and include four works of art and the project's new logo. The newly branded logo depicts someone heading into the town centre to shop, with the foreground showing a wall with artwork on it and the background playing host to the Rotherham Minster.

Other artworks going on show include pieces by Pollyanna Pickering, one of Brian Blessed by Nepalese artist Manish Harijan, two by acclaimed French artist Jean-Mark Janyzciak and many more by local artists and students.

An event was recently held at The Old Market Gallery in Rotherham to celebrate the rebranding and launch of the winter 2015 gallery refresh.

Ged Omar, project manager at Gallery Town (pictured, left), said: "We have had a terrific turnout which just goes to show that creative projects are thriving in Rotherham. The mix of businessmen and women, academic institutions, artists and various organisations and groups is a positive indicator that people are working together in Rotherham, for a better Rotherham. Gallery Town is one cog in the wheel of the town centre's regeneration and it's turning in the right direction.

"By improving Rotherham visually and culturally it is hoped that tourists and shoppers will reflect positively following their visit to the town centre therefore enhancing its reputation moving forward."

Gallery Town website

Images: Gallery Town

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News: Magna looks to future

Rotherham Council is looking to restructure the debt currently owed by the operators of Magna Science Adventure Centre.

Set in the former Templeborough steelworks, Magna is a family attraction with more than 100 hands-on exhibits. Millions of pounds have been invested in conference facilities at the centre which is operated by a charity, the Magna Trust.

In January, Rotherham Council's interim chief executive approved an immediate £100,000 loan after the Magna Trust identified a potential cash shortfall. The council's then cabinet were subsequently asked to approve a new loan facility of up to £250,000 to start on April 1 2015, taking the total available for the year to £350,000.

The decision was deferred pending an independent consultant being appointed to undertake a review of Magna's business, to help to strengthen the Magna business plan and to assess future viability.

With the review undertaken, the Council is putting forward a proposal that will mean no new money for the tourist attraction, but will enable Magna to pay back its current debt over a period of years.

Magna has outstanding loans to the Council of £440,000. This is made up of a £190,000 long term loan which is secured against a building and a £250,000 short term loan which has previously had to be renewed annually.

A proposal, to be agreed at a full council meeting next month, will mean a structured repayment plan on the combined loans over a period of ten to 15 years, with flexibility around earlier repayments.

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "None of us wants to see Magna close its doors. Such a closure would see as many as eighty people lose their jobs, the Council would inevitably have to write off hundreds of thousands of pounds of debt currently owed by Magna, and in all likelihood we would be left with the costs of maintaining the former industrial site.

"But – as I have said before – neither can we afford to see more and more public money going into Magna. By working with the trustees to restructure the Council's debts and make repayment manageable, we will keep this popular visitor attraction open and maximise the opportunity for the taxpayer to see the loans returned to the Council."

John Silker, chief executive of Magna Trust, said: "The future of Magna is looking bright. Our event bookings are up by 14% this year and are on target to top £1m. We get bookings from all over the country. For example we recently hosted conferences for Wickes and Volkswagen.

"Our visitor numbers are holding steady and each year we host about 30,000 school children on educational visits.

"Since I took over in 2013 the plan has been to cut the need to borrow money and we are confident that we will be in a position to stand on our own two feet going forward.

"We very much appreciate the ongoing support of Rotherham Council and we continue to work closely with them as we move in to an exciting future.

"We have several projects in the pipeline, to continue to develop Magna as landmark venue; create jobs and bring investment into the area. For example we have been talking to hotel developers about possible development on the site.

"What many people don’t realise is that, unlike many other attractions, galleries and museums, we do not receive grants which we can keep. Instead we pay back money we borrow at commercial rates of interest and we will continue to pay that money back to Rotherham Council.

"As a giant former steelworks Magna is a true cathedral to industry and an important part of the region's industrial heritage."

One issue for the Council is the fact that the loans are secured only against the offices fronting Sheffield Road, which are not worth as much as they once were. The issue of leases and a inter-creditor deed is also complex. Parties on the deed include the Big Lottery, the Government, Yorkshire Forward, Lombard Property Facilities Limited, and the Royal Bank of Scotland.

The Council, which has identified the need to save £41m from its budget over the next three years, is one of three members of the Magna Trust, together with the Rotherham Chamber of Commerce and The Stadium Group, the developers of Meadowhall and Parkgate Shopping, brought in at the start to add weight to the Millennium Project.

Magna website

Images: Magna

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News: "HS3 before HS2"

The CEO of a Rotherham-based regeneration firm believes that improving connectivity across the North is a bigger priority than connecting the North and South.

The Government gave its backing last year to develop HS3 - a high speed rail link connecting the North's great cities which could significantly reduce journey times across the region - with the Sheffield city region needing to press its case for its inclusion. The issue of better connections between the cities of the North was highlighted by David Higgins, chairman of HS2 Ltd.

HS2 is the £50 billion high speed North to South link - with a South Yorkshire station set to be built at Meadowhall. A final decision on how the project will progress could be announced as part of the Government's Autumn statement this week.

In a report from commercial property agents, Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) on the opportunities for The Northern Powerhouse, Owen Michaelson, CEO of Harworth Estates, provides his five-point plan for success.

One of the largest property and regeneration companies across the North of England and the Midlands, the company, which is based on its own flagship Waverley development, manages around 31,370 acres across some 200 projects, with consent for 8,000 new homes. It was created through the complex restructure of what was UK Coal.

Focusing on transport, Michaelson said: "Delivery of HS3 is the big priority in the North, not HS2. Sheffield to Liverpool trains take nearly two hours for a 62 mile journey. This continues to harm economic competitiveness and trading possibilities.

"I think the Government will run out of money, heart or time before HS1, HS2 and HS3 are all complete. Phase two of HS2 ought to be put on hold in favour of a focus on HS3 in order to deliver a stronger, quicker economic uplift for the region. When both HS1 and HS3 are complete, HS2 could then be built to join the two powerhouses of the North and South."

The property boss also discusses local planning authorities, how devolution deals can support infrastructure investment, a long term approach to increasing the supply of housing and a stable incentive scheme for low-carbon energy.

He added: "I believe that businesses in the North have the ability and skill to become more productive and competitive. The Northern Powerhouse initiative can create the necessary conditions to give them the best possible chance of success and, in return, business leaders need to support it in what they do and say. That's what I'll be doing."

The Northern Powerhouse Office Market Report 2015/16, published by LSH outlines that occupier and investor confidence across the Northern Powerhouse office markets is riding high. It adds that successful clusters in the North, including the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, is a source of competitive advantage and must be driven forward.

Harworth Group website
LSH website

Images: Harworth Group

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News: New owners for Consort Hotel

The Best Western Consort Hotel in Thurcroft, Rotherham has recently been acquired for an undisclosed sum by James Edward Hotels Ltd, operated by its subsidiary Company Montgomery Hotels Ltd.

The 27-room hotel was put up for sale in January 2012 with an asking price of £1.3m. It was purchased later in the year by the hotels division of investment company, West Register Property, from the Peat family who had owned the hotel since 1997.

The new owners said that they are pleased to have acquired the hotel to join its existing hotel property portfolio and are committed to remaining within the Best Western partnership, together with a plan for continued investment in the hotel.

Sharon Leahy, general manager at the hotel, said; "The existing management and staff are looking forward to an exciting future at the hotel as the team aims to maintain and continue to improve our high standards and the guest experience.

"All exisisting bookings, deposit payments and contracts in place will not be affected by the recent change of ownership."

Best Western GB is part of the American group, Best Western International. It started in the UK in 1967 with Interchange Hotels, who joined with Consort Hotels in 1999, to start the British arm of the Best Western brand.

There are over 270 Best Western hotels in the UK - all of which are independently owned and run.

Previous owners, West Register Property, was the controversial acquisition and investment arm of the state-owned Royal Bank of Scotland. In 2014, the bank took the decision to wind down and sell any assets in West Register due to the "damaging perception that the bank had a conflict of interest when it purchased a property as part of a restructuring process."

Best Western Consort Hotel website

Images: Best Western Consort Hotel

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News: Council considers parking initiatives

Free parking across the board would "probably" boost trade in Rotherham town centre, but if it was introduced, a £400,000 surplus generated for the Council would turn into a deficit of approximately £500,000.

Rotherham is a Portas Pilot town and one of the key recommendations in the Mary Portas High Street Review was that high streets and town centres should have the flexibility to introduce local parking initiatives to boost trade. This is particularly pertinent to Rotherham, given the proximity to Parkgate and Meadowhall, both of which have a free parking offer.

Members of the Council's Improving Places Select Commission are looking at the issue of car parking in relation to the local economy and businesses located in the town centre.

Initial investigations into the issues of charging and enforcement policies should determine the future scope and benefits of an in-depth scrutiny review.

Findings show that the authority has no current written policy on parking provision but work is ongoing to formulate such a policy. This process involves consideration being given to the contribution that parking provision makes to the local economy and the Council's overall transportation policy.

Previous decisions on town centre parking had to take into account transport policies that were designed to boost the use of public transport along with encouraging employees to cycle to work, which resulted in incrementally higher car parking charges for longer stay parking.

A number of parking intiatives have been introduced in recent years in an effort to support the businesses in the town centre. The Council is again offering free parking on Saturdays in the run up to Christmas and free, limited stay parking is set to continue on Forge Island.

A report is due to be delivered to Commissioners in December which will make recommendations on tariff changes to achieve savings as well as a free Saturday parking offer - potentially all year round.

The impact of initiatives has been difficult to assess. Car park usage had increased when seasonal free parking was on offer but it was difficult to attribute this to parking being free or the general busy festive shopping period.

The Council accepts that free parking "probably" would increase economic activity and could be a positive that would benefit the town. However, officers and councillors agree that any move to free parking – even on a localised scale – would have to be very carefully monitored and managed and be left in place for a some significant time in order to assess its genuine effectiveness.

A council report also adds: "It should also be recognised that an "across the board" free parking offer would result in the annual surplus which is currently generated by the Parking Service being reduced from its current level of approximately £400,000 to a deficit of approximately £500,000."

Recommendations from the initial work of the select commission includes working on a coherent policy on parking, continued discussions with town centre traders and visitors on the issue, and the understanding that free parking initiatives should be carefully monitored to assess the impact in terms of increased trade and usage.

Rotherham town centre website

Images: RMBC

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News: Interest in Kiveton Park Steel

Discussions are ongoing with potential buyers of the historic Rotherham firm Kiveton Park Steel, that went into administration earlier this year.

Established in 1922, the family company originally produced items used within the UK mining industry and also supplied specialised products into the defence and aircraft industries.

Phil Pierce and Ben Woolrych, partners of FRP Advisory, were appointed as administrators after the business has recently faced unsustainable pressure on its cash-flow due to a sharp deterioration within the specialist steel market. Turnover for the year ending June 2011 was up by 50% to £27m, by June 2014 this was back down to £19.4m. For the year to June 30 2015, turnover had fallen to £16.2m and the business reported a loss of £1.3m.

The administrators secured extended supply agreements to allow the business to continue to trade as it was marketed for sale. The supply agreements helped secure jobs during this period for around 110 staff, representing the vast majority of the 120 staff associated with the business at the point of administration.

A report from the administrators shows that 13 expressions of interest have been shown in the award-winning business and assets, with eight still "live." Many more parties have been interested in the assets of the business on a break up basis but this has not been pursued.

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The report said: "A number of site visits have been conducted and these continue to be arranged for interested parties. Discussions are ongoing with a number of interested parties and information is being provided for them to consider the options further."

The report highlights the events leading up to the appointment of administrators where losses could not be covered by enough new business or cash reserves, exacerbated by a £400,000 debt when a major customer went into administration in 2014.

Large deficits in the pension scheme and a failing IT system added to the financial woes. In 2015, in harsh trading conditions, one of KP Steel's main suppliers shortened its credit terms from 60 to 45 days, impacting on cash flow.

A review of the business with the aim of significant restructuring was carried out with FRP Advisory's help in searching for new debt funders and equity providers.

In August 2015 and based on the company's financial results, a credit insurer stated its intention to withdraw cover from a number of suppliers, most notably Tata Steel - the company's main steel supplier. This "huge blow" would have left Kiveton Park Steel paying for raw materials on a pro forma basis, crippling cash flow.

With administrators called in, it is estimated that creditors are owed some £18m - a large proportion (£15m) being the pension scheme.

A meeting of creditors is due to take place on December 2.

Kiveton Park Steel website

Images: Kiveton Park Steel

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News: Wentworth Woodhouse deal falls through

A multimillion pound deal to purchase Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham has fallen through according to reports in a national newspaper.

Agents, Savills confirmed earlier this month that terms had been agreed for the largest privately-owned house in Europe with the Lake House Group, an investment company which has its headquarters in Hong Kong. Exchange and completion were due to take place.

The historic Grade I listed mansion house went on the market earlier this year with an asking price of in excess of £8m after the Newbold family confirmed that they had decided to sell at the end of 2014.

It had been hoped that a charitable trust would acquire the property. By agreement with the Newbold family, who bought the house for a reported £2m, the newly formed Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust (WWPT) began fundraising last year and raised pledges of £3.4m and prepared detailed plans for the future of the property. The trust aimed to acquire the property if it could raise £7m. A further £42m needs to be spent on the fabric of the house over the next twelve to fifteen years to meet the backlog of repairs and subsidence damage.

Having agreed the target purchase figure with the Newbold family, a final offer was submitted by the WWPT, but it was turned down by Savills in favour of the Lake House Group's offer.

The Times is reporting that the Lake House Group has backed out of the deal due to the levels of subsidence at the property.

The lengthy multimillion pound legal battle between the owners of Wentworth Woodhouse and the Coal Authority should come to a head in 2016. The Court of Appeal unanimously decided to dismiss the Coal Authority's case that the claim for compensation for extensive subsidence damage by the owners, the Newbold family, should be rejected.

The claim for damages against the Coal Authority, for at least £100m, is in respect of the damage caused by deep and open cast mining and is being disputed.

In 2014 the judge laid out a strict timetable for both sides to organise engineering reports regarding the movement of the property. The reports are to determine if the movement is due to mining subsidence.

The timetable involves serving reports detailing damage to Wentworth Woodhouse, the response to those reports by the Coal Authority and then the estimate by both sides of the expected length of the trial which will consider the issues in April 2016.

The conclusion of the trial will determine the level of compensation and enable positive plans and repair work to commence.

The trust's plans identified £42m of structural repairs that needed to be carried out on the property and had taken into account the complex claim for subsidence damage from the Coal Authority.

Wentworth Woodhouse website

Images: Tom Austen / Savills

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News: Save Our Steel rally in Sheffield

Steelworkers, unions and politicians gathered in Sheffield over the weekend to make their voices heard in solidarity as they urge the Government to do more to save the UK steel industry.

Indian-owned steelmaker, Tata Steel has for a long time been warning that continuing cheap imports risk undermining Europe's steel industry and that uncompetitive energy costs and the strength of sterling are hurting its UK operations.

A confirmation is expected soon on the 720 jobs that are at risk - including 500 in Rotherham - as Tata Steel works through proposals to restructure its speciality and bar business. The company recently confirmed proposals affecting 1,200 jobs, mainly in Scunthorpe and Scotland.

General secretaries joined with local representatives from major steel unions, Community, Unite, the GMB and the TUC, at the City Hall. Rotherham MPs John Healey and Sarah Champion were also in attendance.

Frances O'Grady, general secretary of the TUC, said: "Ministers need to understand that once these jobs, skills and blast furnaces are gone, they're gone forever. Communities with steel in their DNA will be devastated.

"But we'll also be left at the mercy of the international markets, with no control over what we pay for the steel we need.

"Our most urgent priority has to be to save plants and save jobs. One in six steelworkers face losing their jobs. Britain desperately needs a long-term industrial plan, but Ministers have refused to commit to one.

"But as well as the short term action, we need a long-term vision for steel too. Never mind the rhetoric about a Northern Powerhouse. That's all good, but it's just empty words if we won't step up now, and take real action on such a fundamental issue. We need to save our steel."

It is estimated that steel and metals industry delivers £95bn of the country’s GDP, an estimated £12bn in taxes and levies and £7bn in wages and NI contributions to the exchequer.

The "asks" of the Government laid out by steel unions include: action on business rates; a compensation scheme for high-energy users; a commitment to favouring British steel in procurement; and work with the EU on anti-dumping measures to protect British steel from cheap subsidised imports.

Following the steel summit in Rotherham last month, working groups were set up to look at the key issues and a parliamentary inquiry heard from steel industry representatives and MPs following the Tata steel redundancies. The government has also confirmed to the steel industry that it will be able to take advantage of special flexibilities to comply with new EU rules on emissions and further lobbying has been carried out at the EU.

Images: Community Union / twitter

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News: Fishing Republic to open two new stores

Rotherham-based retailer, Fishing Republic is putting in place the expansion plans it set out when it launched onto the stock market earlier this year.

The placing of ten million new shares at 15p per share in June has raised £1.5m for the Eastwood company that is already one of the largest retailers of fishing tackle in the UK by floorspace.

Floating on AIM, the directors believe that Fishing Republic is the only participant in the market looking to act as a consolidator, giving the group the benefit of "first-mover advantage."

At the close of the main fishing season, the firm reported its financial results for the four months ending October 31 2015, which had sales up by 43% on the same period last year.

The group currently operates a chain of seven "destination" retail outlets in the North of England and the company is set to grow through acquisitions and the opening of further large format "destination" stores.

Leases have been signed on a retail unit in South Birmingham and for a new larger store in Hull, which will replace its existing outlet in the city.

The company's move into South Birmingham is in line with the Group's stated strategy to broaden its geographic reach and increase its store network alongside its online sales.

The Birmingham site comprises approximately 5,300 sq ft in total and the store is scheduled to open in March 2016, when the fishing season resumes. The new site in Hull comprises approximately 9,000 sq ft in total, with the store scheduled for opening in January 2016.

Steve Gross, CEO of Fishing Republic, said: "We are very pleased to see that sales in the four months to the end of October, the close of the main fishing season, show a significant uplift on same period last year. It reflects the benefit of additional sales and marketing expenditure following our IPO.

"We are also delighted to be establishing Fishing Republic's presence in Birmingham. The city has one of the largest angling clubs in the UK and has traditionally been served predominately by smaller fishing tackle retailers. We are confident that our large store format, carrying a wide range of product for all fishing disciplines, will attract anglers from a wide area across the Midlands. We are also pleased to be upgrading our store in Hull to larger premises in line with our other stores.

"The Board continues to look at potential acquisitions as well as other new store locations whilst at the same time improving our online offer to a growing customer base."

Fishing Republic website

Images: Fishing Republic

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News: Parkway bridge job completes

Work has been completed on budget and four weeks ahead of time to refurbish and repair the Old Flatts Bridge, which carries the A630 Rotherham Gateway to the Sheffield Parkway over rail lines.

The Old Flatts bridge is the first bridge that drivers on the Parkway cross when heading towards Waverley, the site of the Enterprise Zone and Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) and towards the centre of Sheffield from the M1 Motorway.

The route carries over 50,000 vehicles a day and contractors Eurovia began work in September 2014. Careful planning of the works meant that they could be carried out without having to close any of the four traffic lanes; although there were speed restrictions during the period that work took place.

Cllr Denise Lelliott, advisory cabinet member for Housing and the Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: "I am very pleased to see that this important engineering scheme was completed four weeks early and within budget.

"We thank motorists for their understanding while these works were taking place, however this was vital work to ensure the safety of the bridge on this major route for many years to come.

"If these works had not taken place it would have had serious implications for vehicles using the Parkway."

The £4m scheme was partly-funded by the Department for Transport (DfT).

In recent years the Highway Agency has completed pinch point schemes, reducing congestion and improving journeys for drivers around Junction 33 of the M1 at Catcliffe. The government-funded schemes involved widening the northbound and southbound exit slip roads and roundabout, helping to ease congestion.

Closer to the Waverley development, CR Reynolds, was appointed by developers, Harworth Group, to widen Poplar Way in a £1.8m project.

Old Flatts was one of two successful pinch point schemes submitted by the Council to the DfT last year which attracted a total of over £5m of Government funding with over £1m being contributed by the Council.

The other successful scheme was the work to change the Pool Green roundabout on the edge of the town centre into a crossroads with traffic signals - now renamed as New York Junction.

Images: Eurovia

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News: Tram train on its way

The first tram train vehicle is expected in Sheffield next month but delays to the innovative project mean that it won't be running to Rotherham any time soon.

Rothbiz reported in June that the already delayed pilot project, first mentioned in 2009, is now set to begin in 2017, running vehicles on both rail and tram networks, using the freight route from Rotherham and then joining the Sheffield Supertram network at Meadowhall South.

With funding from the Government, the £60m pilot scheme is set to run for two years with a view to permanent operation. It is the first of its kind in the UK and if it is successful, it opens the way for tram trains to be introduced in other parts of the country.

Network Rail, the owners and operators of Britain's rail infrastructure, is responsible for construction plans for 170 metres of track at Tinsley to connect the Supertram and railway networks. It has also been getting to grips with some of heavy rail modifications, including power, track modifications, approvals and testing and commissioning. It has meant that projected costs have increased and transport bosses have been frustrated by the delays in updates from Network Rail and revised spend profiles.

This week, the Committee of Public Accounts highlighted severe planning and budgeting failures in Network Rail's current five-year investment programme.

One key milestone is the approval from the Government to construct and operate the new track at Tinsley. Formal approval from the Secretary of State for the Transport & Works Act order was published yesterday.

The decision letter states: "The Secretary of State is satisfied that the scheme would result in local benefits to the economy and communities in Sheffield and Rotherham and would assist in the regeneration of the Lower Don Valley. He accepts that the scheme would improve connectivity between the linked economies of Sheffield and Rotherham and would improve accessibility to job opportunities, healthcare and leisure facilities."

A recent update to the Sheffield City Region Combined Authority Transport Committee on the progress of the scheme, states: "The tram vehicles are being manufactured and progressing to programme - delivery of the first unit is expected in December 2015. The SYPTE led works have progressed well but Network Rail elements are behind schedule and being closely monitored by the DfT.

"Members will be aware ... that Network Rail led elements of the project have been further delayed."

The Department for Transport (DfT) is the client in this project, with South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) responsible for the delivery of all of the light rail modifications, rail replacement and procurement of the seven vehicles. Network Rail is separately responsible to DfT to deliver the heavy rail modifications required for the project.

Supertram operators have an agreement with SYPTE and will be responsible for operating the service and maintaining the vehicles for a minimum of five years. For the first two years, the pilot period will be fully funded by DfT.

All design work has completed, except Parkgate tramstop connectivity, where the potential for a park and ride and even a new railway station is being examined.

On the modifications to the heavy rail network, contractors, Carillion and Network Rail have agreed a contractual design and implementation programme and preliminary works such as de-vegetation and establishing the site compound have begun.

However, the report adds: "The delivery programme contains several key risks which are closely being monitored by Network Rail and the project team. Heavy Rail approvals, safety verification, product acceptance and general compliance to standards on the Heavy Rail side remains challenging, with the effect on the construction still unknown."

The final stage of modifications to the tram track required to ensure compatibility with the new tram train wheel profile, are due to start shortly. Modifications to the depot have been completed as the the first vehicle is programmed for shipping to the UK from the Spanish factory of Vossloh, in late November 2015 arriving at the depot on December 1 2015.

Network Rail website
SYPTE website

Images: SYPTE / Vossloh

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News: Ultimate Drone wins £30k investment

Ultimate Drone has been announced as the first winner of the Y-Accelerator programme, picking up a £30,000 investment to support the commercialisation of a new generation of drone.

Following a successful trade mission, five companies came to the region as part of an intensive mentoring programme with the aim of fast-tracking ideas into high-growth businesses. After receiving initial support from the South Korean Government, they were housed in one of Rotherham's four enterprise centres run by RiDO, the Council's regeneration arm.

The Y-Accelerator has been delivered in partnership by Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RiDO), the University of Sheffield and South Korean trade organisation TRoom, with valuable support from Sheffield Hallam University and numerous public and private sector mentors.

Over 12 weeks, five innovative South Korean start-up teams have benefited from the programme which culminated in an investor pitch day, hosted at leading Rotherham manufacturer, AESSEAL's head office at Templeborough. The teams delivered a seven minute pitch and were questioned by a panel of judges and the audience which included a variety of potential investors and partners.

The judging panel was made up of Gordon Bridge, chairman and group director at AESSEAL Plc, Julie Kenny, chief executive of Pyronix Ltd, and Peter Sorsby, director of corporate banking, Royal Bank of Scotland.

After deliberation and an audience vote, Ultimate Drone was announced as winner, receiving £30k investment from the programme. Ultimate Drone is developing a revolutionary high-powered multi-rotor commercial drone with superior payload capacity, stability and endurance, outperforming existing platforms by a factor of three.

Changkeun Moon, CEO of Ultimate Drone said: "Before participating in the Y-Accelerator programme we developed great technology but we didn't have a business. Now we have a strong business model and the confidence to realise our ambition of achieving a 10% share of the worldwide drone market."

Amanda Parris, RiDO business centres manager said: "All five teams have made significant progress in their short time here. All now have scalable business models and have received strong interest from potential investors or partners in the UK. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with such a dedicated group; they have been an inspiration."

Julie Kenny, who is also a commissioner at Rotherham Council, said: "I was impressed by the quality of the pitches; choosing the winner was a close call. I believe all the teams have the ability to develop successful businesses in the UK and I am pleased they have chosen Rotherham as the place to do it."

Y-Accelerator website
RiDO website

Images: RiDO

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News: Craft Corner moves to bigger premises

The rejuvenation of the former Georgian Town House at 29-29a High Street in Rotherham town centre has taken a giant step - new tenants have moved into the ground floor retail unit.

The Craft Corner and Bears' Den has relocated from its previous home in the Riverside Precinct as they celebrate 20 years of trading in Rotherham town centre. As well as offering a range of craft-making materials, Craft Corner is the only stockists of Steiff and Charlie Bears in Rotherham.

Part of a complex of mixed-used retail outlets focusing on listed buildings, the Georgian Town House contained the remains of the Italian restaurant and has been painstakingly restored with a new Victorian shop frontage and Doric door.

It was once occupied by the Badger family, a notable family of solicitors and lawyers.

Owners Keith and Dawn Topliss made the move to their new larger store with support from Rotherham Council's Business Development Grant Scheme.

Rotherham town centre was named as a Portas Pilot by the Government in 2012 and compiled a pot of £350,000 to support the Council and its town team partners in realising its vision to create a vibrant and thriving town centre with a different retail offer by fostering new, independent businesses. As well as supporting new independent retailers, funding was set aside to support existing town centre retailers to help them undertake significant business development projects.

Keith Topliss, co-owner of The Craft Corner and Bears' Den, said: "We are delighted to be moving to a new bigger store on High Street. The move means we will be able to bring in new ranges, and also hold more of our craft classes and demonstrations, which have proved very popular."

Dawn added: "We'd like to thank all our very loyal customers who have supported us over the last 20 years – hopefully our move to larger premises will stand us in good stead to continue for another 20 years!"

Cllr Denise Lelliott, advisory cabinet member for housing and the local economy at Rotherham Council, added: "Rotherham's High Street is becoming a real hotspot for independent shops and businesses – so the Craft Corner and Bears' Den will certainly be in good company.

"It's great to see a long established business like this continue trading from bigger premises with support from the Council's Business Development Grant Scheme. I am sure they will continue to thrive in their new home on the High Street."

Craft Corner and Bears' Den website
Rotherham town centre website

Images: RMBC

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News: Newburgh finds success in different sectors

Rotherham-based advanced manufacturer Newburgh Precision is seeing an increase in work from other areas following a downturn in the global oil & gas market - and has secured recent orders of £1m.

Established in the small Peak District village of Bradwell, Newburgh has grown into an internationally-renowned, award-winning business that specialises in manufacturing medium to large precision engineering components and assemblies.

Newburgh survived the harsh economic climate of the 1980s and under a new management team, the company created new customer-focused "cells" with dedicated groups of resources operated by a team of multi-skilled individuals that are committed to producing a product or products for one customer.

In 2004, a purpose built facility was constructed at Templeborough, Rotherham, which has since expanded to 135,000 sq ft of modern manufacturing space.

In its 75th year in 2014, Newburgh Engineering decided to split its two sites, Rotherham and Bradwell, into two separate businesses.

After an increased focus on the oil & gas sector in recent years, Newburgh Precision in Rotherham is seeing an increase in work for the wider power generation, defence, rail and aerospace sectors. The group has also recently invested in new water jet cutting capability to ensure a continued quality service across a broader range of materials.

As the target markets change at the business, changes are also being made to the board of directors. After ten years as business systems director and over 45 years with Newburgh, David Crookes is retiring and will be replaced by Matthew Jewitt who has 20 years with Newburgh in various roles from industrial engineer to sales director.

Other changes at board level include Lee Townsend being promoted from sales manager to sales director to work alongside operations director, Danny Gibbons.

David Greenan, managing director at Newburgh Precision, said: "The changes to the board at Newburgh Precision demonstrate our commitment towards a solid future and the development of our client base across a broader range of sectors. Each director brings a wealth of experience and expert knowledge to their new roles."

The changes are already having an impact. The MD recently tweeted: "Excited to have won orders worth over £1m in O&G, rail and power gen in the last month. Excellent quality, service and value wins every time!"

Lee Townsend, sales director at Newburgh Precision, added: "This is a good sign that the hard work we are putting in to win new work from new markets sectors is starting to pay off after the recent Oil & Gas price crash where we as many others were heavily dependent, we are actively looking into a number of new target sectors with a view of re-positioning ourselves as the UK's premier sub contractor."

Newburgh Precision website

Images: Newburgh Precision

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News: Official opening of Rotherham waste facility

The pioneering new waste treatment facility at Manvers in Rotherham has been officially opened by the Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Andrew Coombe.

The development at Brookfield's Park is designed to create material suitable for recovery and recycling and includes Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) and Anaerobic Digestion (AD) facilities.

Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham Councils secured £77m through the Private Finance Initiative for the scheme and Shanks Group plc, one of Europe's leading waste management businesses, joined in partnership with SSE (Scottish and Southern Energy plc) to progress the plans. Known as 3SE, the operators signed a 25 year contract worth in excess of £750m with the councils for the treatment of black bag waste.

Unveiling a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, the Lord Lieutenant, said: "This project oozes professionalism and the level of leading edge technology is incredible. The close co-operation between BDR, Shanks and SSE has resulted in the creation of the largest Mechanical Biological Treatment plant Shanks have ever built, and something totally unique in the UK.

"It is a significant demonstration of what people working together in South Yorkshire can achieve, and it augurs well for the future of the Sheffield City Region in what is the most exciting period of economic regeneration in this area for many decades."

Constructed by Balfour Beatty, more than 40 new jobs have been created at the Dearne Valley operation.

Over the next 25 years, up to 250,000 tonnes of leftover waste a year from 340,000 households will be treated. Operators believe it could divert 98% of waste from landfill and will save 114,000 tonnes of CO2 every year.

During processing, the waste is turned into recycled products, green energy, a nutrient-rich digestate and Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). Under the contract, SSE will take around half of the RDF produced at Manvers to generate low carbon electricity at its new multifuel facility (known as FM1) in Ferrybridge.

Peter Eglington, managing director of Shanks Waste Management Ltd, said: "We are delighted to celebrate the opening of this important facility which diverts up to 96.5% from landfill and makes a significant CO2 saving. We now look forward to continuing to work closely with our customer to make more from waste in Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham."

Rhys Stanwix, director of thermal development at SSE, added: "SSE and our Joint Venture partner Wheelabrator Technologies Inc. have worked closely with Shanks since early in the development process of both the BDR waste treatment facility at Manvers, and the multi-fuel project at Ferrybridge."

BDR Waste Partnership website
Shanks plc website

Images: BDR Waste Partnership / Shanks

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