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Process filter maker Amazon Filters is to host the inaugural meeting of a newly launched support network for Surrey manufacturers. The firm will welcome senior representatives of companies working in all aspects of engineering and manufacturing to its Camberley production centre in April 2024. It is the first event to be announced under a partnership between Surrey Heath Borough Council’s Economic Development team and Surrey Chambers of Commerce. The pair have launched their Surrey Heath Manufacturing Network with a mission to improve collaboration among manufacturing and engineering business, facilitate shared learning, create supply chain opportunities and offer business support. Founded in 1985, Amazon Filters manufactures filtration equipment that is widely used in critical processes across key industries worldwide such as municipal water, oil and gas, food and beverage, chemicals and coatings, and pharmaceuticals. Neil Pizzey, Managing Director, said: “This new network is all about elevating innovation and growth in Surrey. We look forward to sharing some of our challenges and working together to find solutions. We welcome other manufacturers to join us to create a vibrant, supportive network.” Councillor Kel Finan-Cooke, Portfolio Holder for Economic and Income Development at Surrey Heath Borough Council, said: “Surrey Heath is fortunate to be home to many manufacturing and engineering businesses and it is important the Council provides support to these industries." “Through sector-specific events, workshops and tailored support services, we aim to establish this network as a place where businesses can exchange knowledge, explore synergies and collectively address challenges." “We will also address the local skills gap, work with industry experts to support net zero objectives and look ahead at future technologies including AI to improve productivity within the sector.” Explaining the involvement of Surrey Chambers of Commerce, Chief Executive Louise Punter said: “Much of the work we do is around bringing businesses and other organisations together so that they can share challenges, best practice and business support opportunities.” The network has been set up under the Council’s five-year economic development strategy. This aims to ensure that opportunities for accelerated economic growth and resilience are identified and maximised.

Two British companies have collaborated to create an instant triage system for casualties on battlefields or in disaster zones. Leading Dorset-headquartered cyber-security company C3IA Solutions and Birmingham-based telemedicine pioneers Black Space Technology are already providing the life-saving tech across the world. The system allows the transmission of health and medical information immediately from a casualty to experts who can give instant advice. The first hour after an injury is called the ‘golden hour’ and 80 per cent of deaths occur in this period, so speed of diagnosis, treatment and care is vital. C3IA Solutions is a UK reseller of Silvus StreamCaster radios. They offer leading edge technology in a self-forming, self-healing robust mobile ad-hoc NETworking (MANET) system, which is resistant to interference and delivers high data throughput in a contested environment. Now allied to this is Black Space Technology’s software, meaning relevant information such as vital signs can be sent at once to medical professionals. Sensors placed on the patient mean information is transmitted constantly so any changes will be noticed and the right advice can be given. Other information and pictures can also be sent and the radios allow video calls so those on the ground can speak with medical professionals about the situation. Ash Williams from C3IA Solutions, which is based in Poole, said: “This collaboration is about saving lives. The Silvus radios are the best there are and enable communications in places where there is no other way of keeping in touch." “They are robust and powerful and create their own network on the ground. They also enable Black Space Technology’s software to be used to send and receive vital information. Already the interest from military, rescue and other services from around the world is strong.” David Morgan, a former NHS consultant surgeon and Royal Marines reserve medical officer for eight years, is the CEO and medical director of Black Space Technology. He said: “We provide point-of-injury monitoring solutions for battlefield and other remote or contested environments. Our software captures incremental data throughout any evacuation pathway which improves combat casualty care." “The first hour after injury is called the golden hour and there is also the initial ‘platinum 10 minutes." “Speed of reaction and care therefore is absolutely crucial and through the Silvus radios and utilising Bluetooth and other technology our software can make all the difference." “Sensors placed on the patient send a constant stream of data which are monitored by medical professionals either nearby in a command centre or further afield. Those on the ground can add extra data and receive instructions about what to do." “Real-time video conferencing is also possible meaning decisions taken are more likely to be the best ones. It is of use to the military but also to NGOs in disaster zones – or wherever there are casualties. “Our aim is to close the care gap and with C3IA Solutions we have a collaboration that will save lives.”

Lidl GB has announced the launch of a bottling plant in Derby, which has recently started supplying to Lidl stores across Great Britain. The facility will bottle water and produce a variety of soft drinks, with a production capacity of 380 million bottles per year. The plant called MEG Derby Ltd is part of Schwarz Produktion, the umbrella brand of the Schwarz Group’s production companies. MEG is one of Germany's leading mineral water and soft drink manufacturers, and this marks their first venture in Great Britain. By localising production, the move will simplify transport logistics and significantly reduce the distance the products travel to stores, thereby improving Lidl's carbon footprint and reducing costs. The plant will also provide a boost to the local economy with the creation of about 90 new jobs. Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer, Lidl GB commented, "This new venture with MEG Derby Ltd. marks a significant milestone in our commitment to improving efficiency, reducing our impact on the environment and providing our customers with great quality products at the lowest possible prices." "Bringing production of this key product closer to home makes sense and aligns with Lidl GB's vision of contributing positively to the local community and economy.” Jörg Aldenkott, CEO at Schwarz Produktion, commented, "The inauguration of MEG Derby Ltd. represents a pivotal moment for Schwarz Produktion. As our first venture in Great Britain, it underscores our commitment to sustainable growth, and will allow us to serve Lidl stores across Great Britain. As one of the leading soft drink and mineral water manufacturers in Germany we know investments like these pay off, and I can’t think of a better place to do it than in Great Britain.”

Nova Motorsport, a new brand inspired by heritage and dedicated to technical excellence, which has acquired assets, including the brand licence, traditionally used in the manufacturing and sale of a broad range of motorsport tyres under the names ‘Avon Motorsport’ and ‘Avon Racing’, has signed an exclusive partnership with the RallyX Championship. Nova Motorsport’s five-year partnership commences with the 2024 season of the eight-round European-wide RallyX rallycross championship beginning in Sweden May 10-11. Comprised of six categories and headlined by the elite 600-horsepower four-wheel-drive Open 4WD class, RallyX represents the ultimate racing cauldron for Nova Motorsport to demonstrate the technical excellence and competitive superiority of its products. Nova Motorsport's acquisition of all residual stock from the Cooper Tire & Rubber Company and Avon Motorsport business, including the world-leading ACB11 rallycross tyre, will ensure uninterrupted, consistent service and supply, providing competitors and enthusiasts with an unrivalled racing experience. Underpinning Nova Motorsport’s offer is the exceptionally experienced team assembled by Nova Motorsport founder and managing director of the brand’s parent company, SPC Group, Paul Hallas. James Weekley, former General Manager at Avon Tyres Motorsport, leads Nova Motorsport as Commercial Director. Former Cooper Tire/Avon Motorsport General Manager Paul Coates joins as Contracts Manager, and former Cooper Tire /Avon Motorsport Product Technology Manager Matthew Vincent becomes Senior Product Category Manager. James Weekley, Commercial Director at Nova Motorsport, said: “Nova Motorsport is pleased to continue the relationship established by Avon Motorsport and Cooper Tire with rallycross in general and RallyX in particular." "Our technical team has dominated in this field for three decades, and we have a long and highly successful working relationship with RX Promotion, so this was the most natural place for Nova Motorsport to initiate its motorsport activities utilising the ultra-successful Avon Motorsport and Cooper Tire product range." "We look forward to developing Nova Motorsport on a global scale and offering competition tyres of the highest quality. Our commitment to research and development ensures that our products will remain at the forefront of technology and performance in the world of competition and rallycross tyres." With Matthew Vincent, Nova Motorsport has also brought on board a key figure in the world of rallycross. Matthew has been involved in various rallycross championships around the globe over the last 15 years and was instrumental in the development of the ACB11 rallycross tyre during that time. Matthew will continue to work closely with the RallyX Championship to provide the best product for the series. Matthew Vincent, Senior Product Category Manager at Nova Motorsport, commented: "I am excited to join Nova Motorsport and have the opportunity to build on the success of the ACB11 rallycross tyre with the RallyX Championship tyre supply agreement." "With Nova Motorsport's commitment to research and development and this new partnership, the ACB11 rallycross tyre will continue to be the leading product on the market, as Nova Motorsport develops further new products in the future." Andreas Eriksson, RallyX promoter, said: “We are delighted to welcome Nova Motorsport as our privileged partner for the next five seasons. This collaboration will enable RallyX to consolidate its presence and provide a solid platform for drivers who aspire to a promising future in rallycross." Nova Motorsport aims to quickly establish its presence in global motorsport and the racing community. By concentrating exclusively on the motorsport and specialist tyre sectors, the brand will leverage its deep domain knowledge and expertise to create tyres to deliver success in ultra-demanding racing conditions. The new company’s expertise will enable tailored tyre offerings to meet the specific needs of diverse racing categories. In addition, the brand is committed to substantial investments in research and development to ensure Nova Motorsport remains firmly at the forefront of tyre technology for competition cars and high-performance vehicles. About Nova Motorsport Nova Motorsport has been created to revolutionise the premium competition and specialist tyre industry. Headquartered in the UK, and bolstered by British heritage, global reach and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Nova Motorsport is dedicated to creating a range of superior premium competition and specialist tyres that create unforgettable experiences on the racetrack and beyond.

Opening its doors just four months ago, Craig Rogan at The Collective is launching its first lunch menu, focusing on small plates, packing big flavours. Following the success of the inaugural 8-course, fine dining evening experience, Chef Director, Craig Rogan has been recognised regionally and nationally for his creative culinary skills and turning his talents to lunch was the natural next step. The team behind The Collective Inc on Boar Lane, a unique restaurant, design and retail space, will open its doors to lunchtime diners looking for a relaxed and informal setting to enjoy Craig’s signature style of British classics with a modern-day twist. Craig Rogan at The Collective will officially open for lunch on Wednesday 6th March and guests can enjoy a selection of small plates made with locally sourced ingredients on Wednesday – Saturday from 12pm – 2.30pm. Now listed in the Michelin Guide 2024 and shortlisted in the Yorkshire Evening Post Oliver Awards for ‘Best Newcomer’, ‘Best Fine Dining’ and ‘Chef of the Year’, it is unsurprising that the venue has evolved and extended its dining options to meet the needs of its growing and loyal customer base. Co-founder at The Collective Inc, Ellen Pryce said. “We’ve been overwhelmed with the response from people who’ve dined with us at Craig Rogan at The Collective and the recent award’s we’ve been shortlisted for." “Offering lunch at The Collective Inc is part of our evolvement and ambition to create a space where people can dine in a relaxed atmosphere, whilst enjoying the retail experience the venue has to offer.” Craig Rogan added, “I’ve loved creating the lunch menu, which for me really encapsulates the ethos of relaxed dining that can be enjoyed alone, or with company." “We want diners to enjoy small plates of really tasty food that have been made with locally sourced ingredients that really pack a punch of flavour creating a memorable experience.”

British Airways has proudly marked a decade of serving the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, with non-stop flights to London Heathrow Airport. Since its inaugural service on March 3, 2014, British Airways has flown more than 1.25m customers to and from Austin and the United Kingdom. To commemorate this milestone, celebrations were held at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport ahead of the departure of BA190 to London Heathrow on March 3, 2024. Customers were treated to live music, giveaways, and speeches. Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways, expressed his gratitude for the continued support from the community, stating, "Celebrating ten years of flying between Austin and London is a testament to the strong relationship we've built with this incredible city and its people. "Working together with the local community and institutions, combined with our joint business partnership with American Airlines, has allowed us to grow our capacity in the market by 50% since our first year of operations. This is through the deployment of one of our largest aircraft, the A350." “We’re proud to have played a role in connecting friends, families and businesses, and as we continue rolling out the biggest investment program in our 104-year history, we look forward to serving Austin over the next decade and beyond.” First Officer Austin, who shares a name with the vibrant Texan city he flew into on the anniversary flight, shared his enthusiasm, saying, "It's an honour to be part of this special milestone, connecting two incredible cities. Touching down in Austin on our anniversary is a moment I'll always remember." “As we celebrate a decade of partnership with British Airways, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is honored to acknowledge the enduring commitment that characterizes our journey together. Ten years ago, this first transatlantic flight helped put the Live Music Capital of the World exactly where we belong—on the world’s stage,” said Ghizlane Badawi, Interim AUS Chief Executive Officer. “My team and I value the long-term investment British Airways has made to strengthen our global connectivity, boost our economy, increase tourism, and provide a vital link for businesses. We look forward to many more decades of continued success in connecting Austinites and Central Texans to London and beyond.” The Lonestar State capital is renowned for celebrating local brands, so to mark the anniversary, the airline partnered with Austin’s renowned barbecue joint, Franklin Barbecue, to produce limited edition bottles of Franklin Barbecue’s Original BBQ sauce, aptly labelled BA-B-Q sauce, to gift premium customers flying from Austin to London throughout March. Customers flying from Austin during the anniversary month will also enjoy a Texas-inspired barbecue menu on board. The menu will showcase the rich and savoury taste of Austin's barbecue tradition, featuring options such as a lightly smoked beef brisket in Club World (business), and BBQ chicken in World Traveller (economy) - dishes that pay homage to the city's renowned barbecue culture. British Airways flies direct to London from 26 cities in the US, and first launched flights to Austin on March 3, 2014. Austin is served by the airline’s newest and most sustainable aircraft type, the Airbus A350, complete with the Club Suite business class cabin. The A350 is one of the largest aircraft in the British Airways fleet - with 331 seats including 56 Club Suites (business) and 56 Premium Economy seats.

A little ‘ray of sunshine’ has been born at Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire. An Endangered François’ langur was born to mum Lulu and dad Wang in the early hours of Saturday 17 February. In contrast to the adult François’ langurs monochromatic coats, infants are born with shocking orange hair. The flame-coloured monkey, which currently spends most of its time cuddling into Mum’s dark black hair, was born as part of a European Endangered Species Breeding Programme (EEP) - an internationally coordinated conservation initiative which aims to boost the numbers of species that are threatened in the wild. Whipsnade Zookeeper Amanda Robinson said the team were ecstatic when they saw Lulu cradling her bright orange baby at the weekend. Amanda explained: “It’s believed the babies are born with bright orange locks so that parents can easily spot the youngster when they’re being cared for by the troop. Over time this hair will fade to black. The bright orange hair certainly makes it easier for keepers and visitors to spot the new addition!” François’ langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of threatened species. Native to China and northern Vietnam, their numbers have continued to fall in the wild, making the birth internationally important. Amanda added: “Sadly, in the wild the number of François’ langurs are plummeting, so this newborn really is a ray of sunshine and a sign of hope for the species.” she said. At the François’ langurs habitat, big sister Nguyen has been keen to share parenting responsibilities with Mum and learn to look after a newborn baby. Amanda said: “Nguyen has been staying close to her mum Lulu and giving her a break when she needs to eat or drink. She’s been treating the newborn like it’s her own baby, which is exactly what you’d see in the wild - it shows the eight-year-old has picked up great skills from the older members of the troop.” Conservationists estimate there are only 2,000 of these primates left in the wild. The species faces threats from illegal hunting for their meat and for traditional medicinal purposes. Caring for a back-up population in zoos is vital to protecting their future. ZSL, the conservation charity behind Whipsnade Zoo, works across the world to tackle the illegal wildlife trade, including in Thailand - the largest transport point for the illegal wildlife trade in Southeast Asia. In April, ZSL signed a ground-breaking agreement with the Land Transport Federation of Thailand (LTFT) to help stop the illegal trade of threatened animals - including François’ langurs and other mammals, birds and reptiles, being taken from the wild. Alongside monitoring activities along trade routes, ZSL experts work with the LTFT to increase environmental awareness among the 20,000 companies represented by their 10 member associations, encouraging the adoption of zero-tolerance to illegal wildlife trade practices across the country. The langur troop can be found at Whipsnade Zoo’s brand-new Monkey Forest – which opens to the public on 29 March. Visitors will meet the mischievous monkeys as they journey through Monkey Forest, along with Sulawesi crested macaques, the curled-tusked Babirusa, and the ‘demons of the forest’, the lowland anoa along the way.

Scientists have discovered a way to stop active cancer cells in their tracks – meaning they can then be eliminated by new drug treatments. A collaborative research project between the University of Dundee’s Drug Discovery Unit (DDU) and Queen Mary University of London, has identified chemical compounds, called tool molecules, that can halt active cancer cells. Using these tool molecules forces tumour cells from a specific type of breast cancer into a pro-senescence state – similar to a sleep-like state in which they can no longer divide or cause tumour growth. This condition makes the cancer cells sensitive to a second group of tool molecules, called senolytic drugs, which can eliminate them. It may also ‘uncloak’ the cancer cells, making them visible to the body’s immune system, offering further therapeutic opportunities. Researchers developed this ‘two-punch’ method while looking at basal-like breast cancer (BLBC). A team funded by Barts Charity, and led by Cleo Bishop, Professor of Senescence at Queen Mary University of London and Academic Lead for the Phenotypic Screening Facility, uncovered a pathway to force BLBC cells into pro-senescence. They then collaborated with another team based at the University of Dundee’s Drug Discovery Unit (DDU) to develop tool molecules to promote senescence within the cells. Drug treatments to deliver the ‘second punch’ of cell elimination are currently being developed elsewhere. Professor Bishop, said, “At present, the most common treatments for BLBC are surgery and unsophisticated chemotherapy regimens. Consequently, the lack of possible targets for tailored therapies and the aggressive clinical course means that women with BLBC have a particularly poor prognosis." “Pro-senescence therapies activate a stable cell cycle arrest halting tumour growth, trigger anti-tumour immune responses and expose cancers to novel treatment regimes called senolyitcs.” This research utilised high-content imaging to identify the tool molecules from DDU’s diversity libraries, which have now been selected by pharmaceutical company ValiRx for further evaluation. The University of Dundee has this month signed a five-year agreement with the company, which focuses on early-stage cancer therapeutics and women’s health. The pro-senescent ‘first punch’ tool molecules are the first to enter into a 12 month evaluation phase under this agreement and if successful, could result in a new company being established as a joint venture with all three parties. Charlotte Green, Head of Business Development at the University of Dundee’s Drug Discovery Unit, said, “The one-two punch approach has gained lots of interest in recent years but currently there is no clinical precedent, by moving the project forward with ValiRx we are leading the way in translating the research to the clinic.” Dr Suzy Dilly, CEO of ValiRx said, “The strength of the DDU and research facilities at Dundee are very impressive, and having reviewed multiple projects from teams there over the past year, we believe that this evaluation agreement will be the first of a series of new projects that can be brought into our pipeline.”

Prestigious names are being unveiled for Yorkshire Sustainability Festival 2024 (YSF24) as sustainability guru, Kevin McCloud, will be taking to the speaker stage at The Yorkshire Sustainability Conference later this year, to share his knowledge and passion around sustainable construction and design. Kevin McCloud, who has presented Grand Designs since its launch in 1999, is passionate about and committed to sustainable architecture. In his recent documentary with Mary Portas and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, The Great Climate Fight, McCloud and his co-hosts made clear that the UK Government has a step by step plan to fight climate change, provided by the Climate Change Committee, they’re just simply choosing not to follow it. With bills rising for everyone as the cost-of-living crisis continues to rip through the UK, McCloud advocates for the importance of better standards for new builds which will not only make them more sustainable but will save money on gas and electricity bills for regular people. It’s becoming clear that not only is the transition to a sustainable future vital for the planet but it’s vital for ordinary working people too. Kevin has received an MBE for services to sustainable design and energy-saving property refurbishment and is passionate about making his living space planet friendly. This wealth of knowledge and sheer passion for change will no doubt inspire more businesses and attendees of The Sustainability Conference to be heroes in the sustainability sector themselves. What is the Yorkshire Sustainability Festival? Building on the success of Yorkshire Sustainability Week in 2023, which was the biggest gathering of sustainability professionals in the North of England, Yorkshire Sustainability Festival has evolved and expanded for 2024. This year the series of events are set to be bigger and better, with events being planned in North, East, South and West Yorkshire, to bring to life the biggest sustainability festival in the UK right across the region. With an audience of leaders spanning public, private and third sectors, Yorkshire Sustainability Festival is beginning to become a regional Conference of People (COP). The two week festival of events, starting 10th June 2024 will include The Yorkshire Sustainability Conference, on 18th and 19th June, with headline speaker Kevin McCloud attending day two of the event, focusing on Future Cities at Cloth Hall Court in Leeds. Day one of the conference will be focused around a circular economy with tracks including manufacturing, SME support, economy and finance and waste. The headline speaker will be announced shortly but expect a household name in the world of retail and sustainability. Key sponsors and supporters of the event to date include: Leeds City Council, Alrose Productions, Beyondly, boxxe, Imageco and Severfield. Kate Hutchinson, founder of Yorkshire Sustainability Festival and The Sustainability Conference, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Kevin McCloud joining us on our Future Cities Conference day as part of Yorkshire Sustainability Festival 2024." "We’re bringing together leaders from the public, private and third sectors all passionate and committed to building a sustainable future for Yorkshire at YSF24. Kevin’s knowledge and passion for sustainability in the built environment will no doubt inspire our regional leaders to work together with our business community to build a truly sustainable Yorkshire.” On extending YSF across the Yorkshire region, Kate Hutchinson added: “The response we received last year was fantastic but a common theme in the feedback was to hold more local events. For 2024, we’re running events right across the region so I’d encourage businesses both big and small to get involved and contribute to the knowledge exchange across the festival to develop and achieve our sustainable development goals both locally, and nationally.” How to get involved in YSF Yorkshire Sustainability Festival offers a range of events to help organisations reduce their carbon emissions, improve their sustainability, and create new business opportunities in the green economy; from roundtable Sustainability Symposiums to a wide range of fringe events, including The Yorkshire Sustainability Conference. As well as attending events across the week, businesses are also invited to organise their own fringe events under the Yorkshire Sustainability Festival banner.

Ahead of Jeremy Hunt’s Spring Budget on Wednesday 6 March, Ross McNally, Chief Executive and Executive Chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, highlights the top priorities that members demand the Chancellor address with urgency. Ross said: “Given the huge economic shocks we have seen and the enduring challenges we face, the Chancellor must do everything possible to create a sustainable environment in which businesses can invest and grow." “A Budget package with a focus on skills, tax incentives, business rates reform and support for infrastructure planning would go a long way to achieve that.” Skills “We call on Jeremy Hunt to commit to funding business-led Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) beyond the current 2025 cut-off point to at least 2028." “In our region we have led the research and implementation of the Solent LSIP and played a key role in the Enterprise M3 LSIP. These robust, targeted initiatives are absolutely vital to our regional economy. They will increasingly equip people with essential skills for career success while enabling employers to resolve the critical skills shortages they face in their workplaces." “In helping to coordinate the input of business and the education sector on the development of LSIPs, we know how working together can unlock valuable insights and make a real difference. Already, Hampshire’s further education sector has received millions of pounds’ worth of investment in strategic support for the skills agenda thanks to business cases put forward by our LSIPs." “That activity must not stop now. We still need substantial investment to enhance career progression and improve employability. Mr Hunt must continue to prioritise funding for skills in our region.” Tax “The Budget is a prime opportunity to build on measures introduced in the last Autumn Statement to improve tax breaks and incentives for business at what remains a challenging period in the economy." “Making permanent the system of allowances for capital investment in plant, machinery and IT, so-called full expensing, was a move welcomed by many firms. Now the Chancellor should go further and accelerate help for business." “Specifically, we call on him to lower the VAT rate for the hospitality sector. If he does, this will boost consumer spending, help cashflow for the many SMEs who operate restaurants, pubs, hotels and leisure facilities, and support long-term investment in hospitality skills and employment." “The sector desperately needs a lift because spending has been so constrained. While the government can argue there have been recent cuts to income tax and National Insurance for individuals, much of this has been undermined by frozen tax thresholds." “The combination of high inflation and wage growth has brought millions of taxpayers into higher rate tax brackets. This means that for quite a while now many people have found themselves worse off compared to previous years. A VAT-cut stimulus for hospitality would make their spending more affordable and so unlock growth potential." “As an attractive destination for overseas visitors, Hampshire would also benefit from the introduction of tax-free shopping schemes. This would help our hard-pressed retailers and hospitality providers to compete with other countries and show we are very much open for business.” Business Rates “In surveys over many years, members frequently tell us they have held back on investment plans as a direct result of financial pressure from business rates. And for many, their latest revaluations have left them worse off, not better." “Business rates remain an iniquitous tax on many struggling firms, failing to take into account challenges to profitability or capacity to pay. We therefore call for long-overdue action to reform business rates and finally make it a system that incentivises rather than chokes off growth.” Infrastructure “Many of our members who work in homebuilding, commercial property, infrastructure development and their supply chains, consistently speak of roadblocks in the planning system. Much-needed growth is continually stymied because of limited resource within hard-pressed local planning authorities." “We call on Mr Hunt to match fund a nationwide, industry-led, Chamber-backed scheme designed to make it easier for authorities to employ newly qualified graduates and upskill existing staff. The aim is to increase the pipeline of specialist skills and talent in the planning system." “While this newly launched scheme may not have an immediate impact this year, it will lay the groundwork for expediting planning decisions and stimulating growth in the future. The government can make this happen more quickly by committing its support.”

International legend Tony Hawk once skated at the world-renowned skatepark now listed by Historic Environment Scotland Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has designated Livingston 'Livi' Skatepark as a listed structure at category B. The skatepark, which opened in 1981 and was later extended, achieved international renown within the skate scene from its earliest days due to its scale, ambition and quality. Known for its very deep Double Bowl and finely-tuned transitions, the skatepark is an enduring icon of the Scottish skate and bike scene. ‘Livi’ Skatepark is the earliest surviving purpose-built skatepark in Scotland. Concrete skateparks from this era are increasingly rare across the UK as many have been filled in or demolished. It is also an important example of public enterprise architecture by Livingston Development Corporation built to serve Livingston New Town. Skateboarding originated in 1950s California and became very popular in Scotland during the later 1970s. This is when skateboarder, Kenny Omond, first approached Livingston Development Corporation with the idea for a skatepark. Architect Iain Urquhart designed the skatepark after extensive study of US skateparks and conversations with skateboarders. As a result, the skatepark is an authentic reflection of the skate culture of the 1970-1980s. Omond designed an extension to the skatepark in 1992, a time when very few skateparks were being built. The listing of the structure ensures its significance will inform decisions about its future. Dara Parsons, Head of Designations at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "We are delighted to confirm 'Livi' Skatepark as a listed building after West Lothian Council asked us to consider designation." “Iain Urquhart’s original design is grounded in early skate culture, and the park is known around the world for its pioneering design, the quality of the skating experience, and as a prototype for later concrete skateparks." "We are very grateful for everybody who contributed to our public engagement, which helped us understand the history, design, quality and experiences for those who use the skatepark. Tony Hawk, who skated there back in 1991, described it as ‘a legendary place’, and it is clear that this remains a highly valued creative and social space for the community of Livingston and the skating and biking community." "Through designation, we hope to recognise and protect the best examples of our cultural heritage. Listing Scotland’s oldest skatepark helps demonstrate the variety of our historic environment and especially the important role the built environment of the late 20th century structure has in telling Scotland’s story.” Rick Curran, Secretary at Skateboard Scotland, said: “Skateboard Scotland are pleased to hear that Livingston skatepark is to be designated a listed structure, this designation will help ensure it retains the essence that makes it a famously strong foundation for Scottish skateboarding." "Livi is a beloved, world-renowned skatepark recognised by many for its ground-breaking design, but at 43 years old it is showing considerable signs of age, so we are extremely keen to see the necessary steps taken to ensure this essence is protected for future generations through sympathetic, considered stabilisation and restoration." “We want to thank the skate community for the huge amount of feedback and information they provided to Historic Environment Scotland (HES) as part of the survey last year which has helped them to consider and award this designation.” Lawrence Fitzpatrick, Leader of West Lothian Council, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that Livingston Skate Park has been granted B listed status." “Thanks to everyone in the local and skating communities who showed their support for the unique facility during the consultation process." “As the custodians of Livingston Skate Park, we are well aware of the importance of the park, and adding it to the list of Scotland’s significant structures will help ensure it is protected for future generations.”

Former sport student at the University Centre at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, Tyler Dupree, helped lead Wigan Warriors to victory against Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge 2024. Tyler was subbed on in the 18th minute of the game by Wigan Warrior’s Head Coach Matt Peet, with the forward playing a key role in securing the team’s win over Penrith Panthers at the DW stadium on Saturday 24th February 2024. Tyler said about the experience: “Playing in the World Club Challenge was unreal and is the highlight of my career so far. It was fantastic to also be a part of such an historic event for Wigan, as this marks the club’s fifth World Club Challenge win – which is the joint top number of trophies with Sydney Roosters. I’m incredibly excited for what’s to come next in my professional rugby career and the knowledge that I learned throughout my degree regarding recovery, nutrition and performance is ensuring I can be the best player I can be.” In 2023, Tyler was also selected by England Rugby League’s Head Coach, Shaun Wane, to represent England in the International Rugby League 2023. He appeared in the squad for the end-of-season series against Tonga, featuring in the third and final test match at Headingley Stadium. He started his professional rugby career on a six-year scholarship with Salford Red Devils in 2016 and has also played for the likes of Leeds Rhinos, York City Knights, Featherstone Rovers, Batley Bulldogs, Oldham and Widnes Vikings. Tyler completed a Foundation Degree in Applied Sports Performance at the University Centre at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, which helped him develop the skills to refine his performance in professional rugby. Amy O’Keefe, Head of Sport at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, said: “Tyler has showed incredible talent since the start of his professional rugby career, but what has made him such a successful player is that he backs this up with theoretical knowledge which enables him to constantly improve his performance. These are the tools which we aim to give our students when studying our sports degree, ensuring that either they or the people they are coaching can achieve their full sporting potential.” Former student Lewis Dawson has also gone on to become a match official in professional football, coordinating digital learning content for the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL). A number of students have also gone on to become teachers in sport or have opened their own fitness businesses in the Wakefield district.