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Capital&Centric completes Manchester mill workspace restoration

Helen Greaney
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Capital&Centric completes Manchester mill workspace restoration

Restoration of one of Manchester’s historic mills is complete, with the team behind it revealing a first look at some of the new creative workspaces inside.

Social impact developer Capital&Centric took on the Grade II listed Neptune Mill in Manchester’s Piccadilly East neighbourhood last year. They’ve now completed the stunning restoration and repurposing of the 19th century building, turning it into some of the city’s coolest workspaces for creative businesses.

New images show how loads of the building’s original features have been retained and celebrated as part of the overhaul, with bold new fixtures and fittings fit for the 21st century.

The top floor has seen the biggest transformation, with reclaimed timbers taken from the entire building used to reboard the ceilings, revealing more of the building’s innate charm. Roof lights have also been fitted to reveal the stunning features, a perfect space for one of Manchester’s bustling creative businesses to locate to.

A lush new courtyard and coffee shop has also been finished. Capital&Centric recently signed up Ancoats favourite Cotton to move in, offering a new spot for people working there, living nearby and the general public to hang out. Expect to see their sought-after sarnies, coffee, cakes and juices as well a new spot for after works beverages.

Neptune Mill (pictured) – named after a long gone road in the area – has been built to the highest energy efficiency standards, achieving an EPC A rating, whilst also saving loads of embodied carbon that would’ve been lost if the mill was demolished. Manchester-based Capital&Centric, headed up by Tim Heatley and Adam Higgins, has also made one of the Neptune Mill floors its new HQ.

It’s also set to feature a massive new addition to Manchester’s street art scene, with the team in discussion with muralists about a permanent new installation.

Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “This is a major step forward in our plans for Piccadilly East. We’ve already delivered new homes, hotels and cultural spaces and Neptune Mill adds something different to the mix … really desirable workspaces with standout original features and a new neighbourhood coffee shop. It’s brilliant the team behind Cotton are on board to make the space their own and we’ve no doubt Neptune will be perfect for businesses that want anything but a bland corporate space.

“As well as bringing something new to the Manchester market, it’s also a fresh chapter for the Capital&Centric team as we make it our new base.”

Any potential occupiers can register interest here: www.capitalandcentric.com/neptune-mill

dbfb appoints rugby league icon to expand UK reach

Helen Greaney
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dbfb appoints rugby league icon to expand UK reach

Rugby league legend Paul Sculthorpe MBE has joined industry-leading telecoms and IT managed service provider dbfb as a director of the company.

To drive business growth, dbfb announced that the former Warrington, St Helens, and Great Britain captain will spearhead the company’s ambitious commercial expansion plans, including the launch of a new business base in Greater Manchester.

He hopes to utilise his extensive network of contacts throughout the rugby league and business world to expand dbfb’s presence further across the UK. With 26 years of service, dbfb is renowned for its innovative telecoms and managed IT services and is well-positioned to serve businesses across the region.

Joining Sculthorpe is Paige-Elise Harrison (pictured centre), an experienced business development professional, who has been newly appointed as dbfb’s head of sales for the Northern region.

Simon Pickering (pictured left), managing director of dbfb, highlighted how Sculthorpe’s winning mentality makes him ideal to lead dbfb’s Northern team as the company continues to grow.

He said: “I am delighted to welcome Paul and Paige-Elise to team dbfb. They understand that our tailored approach, exceptional customer service, and bespoke solutions for businesses are at the heart of what we do. Together, they will be instrumental in driving the next phase of our growth, including our new Manchester office.

“The city is home to a thriving £5 billion digital ecosystem with more than 10,000 digital and tech businesses, making it the ideal location for us to expand our presence. With their combined expertise and network of connections, Paul and Paige-Elise will showcase our transformative solutions, and service, to businesses across the area.”

Paul Sculthorpe MBE (pictured right) said: “I’ve been good friends with Simon for a long while, and I love his passion for the industry. I know what it’s like to be part of a winning team, so the opportunity to join dbfb and help expand the business, particularly in a region close to my heart, was too good to pass up. I look forward to introducing dbfb to the business community in Greater Manchester and across the region.”

The company’s expansion will allow dbfb to deliver bespoke, future-proof managed services, combining telecom and IT solutions that help businesses stay connected and competitive.

Man arrested following attack on nurse at Royal Oldham Hospital

Helen Greaney
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Man arrested following attack on nurse at Royal Oldham Hospital

A 37-year old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, after a nurse was attacked at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

At 11.30pm on Sunday, Greater Manchester Police were called to the A&E department, following reports that a member of the public had attacked a woman in her 50s, with a sharp instrument, which was not a knife.

The victim suffered critical, life-changing injuries and remains in hospital for treatment.

Officers say they are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, and they do not believe there is a wider threat to the public.

Detective sergeant Craig Roters said: “This is a serious incident which has left a woman in a critical condition. 

“Our thoughts are with her family and colleagues, and we will continue to support them throughout this investigation.

“The local community can expect to see an increase in police presence whilst we carry out enquiries, but they are also there to offer reassurance and answer any questions you may have. We know that news of this nature will come as a shock, and if you have any concerns or anything you would like to share, please speak to them.”

Chief nursing officer at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust Heather Caudle said: “We are incredibly shocked and saddened by last night’s incident and our focus is on supporting the colleague involved and their family.

“Our thoughts are also with colleagues and patients who were there at the time of the incident and for whom this has been distressing and frightening. We will continue to support Greater Manchester Police with their inquiries. All services at The Royal Oldham Hospital remain open.”

Health secretary Wes Streeting wrote on X: “My thoughts are with the nurse and her loved ones following this horrific attack at The Royal Oldham Hospital.

“Nurses are the backbone of our NHS and should be able to care for patients without fear of violence.

“We’re in touch with the Trust and will update further as we can.”

Repair fund launched as Didsbury Sports Ground devastated by floods

Helen Greaney
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Repair fund launched as Didsbury Sports Ground devastated by floods

An emergency repair fund has been set up for century-old Didsbury Sports Ground (DSG) after it was left devasted by floods.

Water poured throughout the clubhouse, destroying playing fields and causing catastrophic damage at the ground, which is home to Didsbury TocH Rugby Club, Didsbury football Club, Park Run and many other community sports and events.

The club has launched its Repair & Rescue fund to help rebuild the foundations of this Didsbury landmark, which is expected to cost tens of thousands of pounds in remedial works, after the worst possible start to 2025.

Since New Year’s Day, the ground has taken an unprecedented hit. The River Mersey burst its banks, sending floodwaters into the surrounding areas, with the Didsbury flood basin filling to unprecedented levels overnight – over a meter higher than previous years (the last being in 2022).

Significant structural damage to the Sports Club’s changing room block, storage areas and the clubhouse was caused and the impact on the playing fields, grounds and car park has been devastating.

Now volunteers of DSG and associated sports clubs have been left to deal with the fallout, which has been left in jeopardy after the rapid rise of the river levels.

The direct impact of flooding is an uninsurable risk and it falls on the generosity of the clubs membership and charity arm (DPFA) to raise funds to secure the future of the sports ground.

Ian Bailey, director of DSG said: “The devastation caused by the flooding is nothing short of heart-wrenching. The ground has been a landmark and local hub within the village for over a century. The damage is catastrophic and the impact to the community is immense.

“Our ground is far more than just a sports facility, it is a place where people connect, grow, and thrive, and embrace the community spirit. To lose such an iconic and central community resource would be unthinkable and such a travesty, which is why we’re calling on local and central government support.”

Every week, DSG brings together over 800 people from the local area for sports, fitness, social activities, recreation and community events, creating a place for well-being, a fantastic social circle and helping to build an all-round happier and healthier community.

DSG now face the daunting challenge of cleaning up and repairing the damage. The aim is to raise £50,000, which will go towards the clean-up operation. Every contribution, no matter how large or small, will make a real difference in getting the sports ground back to a usable state.

Ian added: “We are so grateful for the immediate help of our volunteers and the fantastic people at this club. Once the water recedes, we will however need more than time, we will require the funds to bring the ground and clubhouse back into full use and to safeguard from future flooding. Every contribution will make a huge difference.”

Telcom and Luminet Rebrand as Elevate® Following a Year of Integration and Growth

News Desk
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Telcom and Luminet Rebrand as Elevate® Following a Year of Integration and Growth

Telcom Group has rebranded as Elevate®, completing a strategic 12-month process to unify its operations, including Telcom Networks, the wholesale initiative GigaBritain, and London-based ISP Luminet, acquired in October last year. This integration positions Elevate as a comprehensive provider of end-to-end network solutions, spanning connectivity, cyber security, and managed network services.

Under the new Elevate brand, the company aims to deliver a seamless and unified customer experience as a “Ground to Cloud” technology partner. To support this vision, Elevate has invested heavily in its internal systems and integrated customer portals, ensuring enhanced service delivery and management. The wholesale division, which serves over 300 partners, will now operate under the name Elevate Wholesale.

Elliott Mueller, Group CEO, expressed his pride in the rebrand: “We have spent the last year listening to our customers, partners & teams. As our business continues to scale at pace underpinned by our total commitment to provide our customers with the best possible service, I am immensely proud of the team that has worked to deliver the Elevate experience which we believe will be the benchmark for direct and channel partners expectations in delivery and after sale service.”

Mueller also emphasised the crucial role of channel partners in the company’s strategy: “Our channel partners are a key component in our growth strategy where the requirements to successfully deliver and support connectivity and aligned components in partner-led, mission-critical solutions. These partnerships are essential in building long-term relationships. Elevate is now fully equipped to deliver our channel proposition under the Elevate Wholesale banner and looks forward to an exciting 2025 for the group.”

The Elevate rebrand signifies a major milestone for the company, aligning its offerings and solidifying its position as a trusted partner for businesses and channel partners in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

Eco-Luxury Shivo Towers Construction Begins in Zanzibar

News Desk
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Eco-Luxury Shivo Towers Construction Begins in Zanzibar

The groundbreaking for Shivo Towers, a luxury apartment project in Paje, Zanzibar, has commenced. Covering 9,740 sqm, the development features two towers with 162 apartments and four penthouses, offering high-end amenities like a pool, spa, gym, restaurant/bar, and tropical gardens.

Shivo partnered with Muchmore Architectural Design and architect Christian Bonu to create a model of sustainable development for Zanzibar. The apartments, including studio suites and penthouses with private infinity pools, are priced between $116,000 and $1.4 million. Construction is set for completion in 2027.

The project’s early milestones include completed ground investigations and environmental studies. Shivo Towers has also been recognised by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) with an investment certificate, underscoring its significance for the local economy.

Richard Ashby, the project’s founder, stated, “Zanzibar is really elevating itself as a luxury travel destination, and we have received plenty of interest in these apartments from people living overseas such as the US and Dubai.”

Ashby added, “Zanzibar has become a true gem for international investors. The improved infrastructure and growing flight connections have made it incredibly accessible, but it’s the unique blend of natural beauty and rich culture that really seals the deal. We’re seeing buyers from all over the world who recognise this isn’t just another beach destination – it’s a rare investment opportunity in a truly special place and emerging market.”

Real estate demand in Zanzibar is surging due to its flourishing tourism sector. Ashby remarked, “If you consider the cost of building and purchasing a similar type of property in resorts like Barbados or the Maldives, Zanzibar is a very attractive proposition for investors.”

He added, “There has been a lot of investment in air and road infrastructure on the island, and it is a rapidly surging market in terms of luxury tourism, so the demand is there for these properties making them an ideal investment. Returns on investments from rentals and reselling through value appreciation on property are massively expanding on the island, meaning there has never been a better time to consider investing in property here.”

For more information, visit Shivo’s website at www.byshivo.com and follow their journey on Instagram @shivo_tanzania.

Harmeen Mehta Joins Sekura.id to Advance Mobile Identity

News Desk
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Harmeen Mehta Joins Sekura.id to Advance Mobile Identity

Sekura.id, a global leader in mobile identity verification and a GSMA Open Gateway Channel Partner, is thrilled to welcome Harmeen Mehta, an internationally recognised technology strategist and innovator, as its newest Advisor.

Harmeen brings extensive experience from a career spanning industries such as airlines, investment banking, and telecommunications, with her work having a global impact across over 40 countries. She has consistently utilised technology to overcome complex business challenges and deliver innovative, future-ready solutions.

Prior to her role at BT, Harmeen was Group CIO and Head of Cloud & Security Business at Bharti Airtel, where she led transformative initiatives in digital, engineering, IT, and innovation, while building new business streams. Her previous senior roles at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, BBVA, and HSBC highlight her exceptional expertise. A specialist in Neural Networks and AI, Harmeen has been honoured with the Women of the Decade in Innovation & Leadership Award from the Women Economic Forum and the prestigious MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award.

Known for her forward-thinking approach, Harmeen is committed to driving innovation and enabling businesses to thrive in an evolving digital landscape. Her appointment aligns with Sekura.id’s ongoing efforts to expand its Open Gateway initiatives, helping telecommunications providers evolve into technology-focused enterprises.

“In today’s world of ever more rapid technological advancements, establishing true identity is the cornerstone for individuals and organisations to harness innovation safely and securely while protecting customer rights,” Harmeen explained. “I am deeply passionate about the transformative power of identity and Sekura.id’s pivotal role in this space. My focus will include expanding Open Gateway APIs as a vital new revenue stream for telcos, while also ensuring mobile identity solutions reach a broader audience, empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.”

Mark Harvey, CEO of Sekura.id, shared his thoughts on the appointment: “Harmeen is a highly esteemed technologist, and I have held her in the highest regard since our first meeting at Bharti Airtel. Her unparalleled global expertise and passion for mobile identity made her an obvious choice as a strategic advisor for Sekura.id. I can think of no one with greater drive, enthusiasm, and commitment to advancing the mobile identity industry as a whole.”

With Harmeen Mehta joining as Advisor, Sekura.id solidifies its position as a leader in mobile identity innovation. Her vision and expertise will propel the company’s mission to deliver secure, scalable, and future-proof identity solutions, benefiting businesses, telecom providers, and consumers alike.

Niagara Falls USA teams up with Mason Williams PR

Helen Greaney
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Niagara Falls USA teams up with Mason Williams PR

Mason Williams says plans are underway to ensure the spotlight is firmly on Niagara Falls for 2025 – covering creative campaigns, press and influencer trips, press office management and strategic partnerships.

Niagara Falls USA has selected Mason Williams to handle all public relations from January 2025, driving awareness of both the beauty of Niagara Falls USA, and the hidden gems beyond the Falls that only locals know- such as scenic walking trails, observation areas, or viewing from the misty decks of boat tours that take visitors up close to the infamous waters.

“As one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls continues to captivate millions of visitors each year,” said Sara Harvey, director of Communications for Destination Niagara USA.

“We selected Mason Williams given their wealth of travel industry experience, their love of the Falls and the creative ideas their team put across during the pitch – their enthusiasm was infectious and we’re confident they’ll deliver some incredible results.”

Heading up the account is experienced senior account director, Sarah Grindley, supported by senior executive Charlotte Norton and managing director Rita Rowe.

Sarah’s PR career spans 12 years and three continents across London, New York and Sydney. With consumer, fashion and hotel and hospitality experience. She heads up a number of hotel and hospitality brands including Radio at ME London, the Adagio portfolio, Savage Garden rooftop at Doubletree Hilton Tower Bridge, as well as the Asmodee Games account, leading brand campaigns for the phenomenon that is Elf on the Shelf and recently appointed Stagecoach Performing Arts.

Rita Rowe, Mason Williams MD, said: “This is the best Christmas present that any agency could have; a fabulous client who wants to make some noise about a year-round destination with something special for every season – there is nothing quite like it. We can’t wait to get started and could not be more excited.

“We are planning out the campaign for 2025 covering press office, creative campaigns, partnerships and influencer and press trips which is being finalised now – time is of the essence and the team are raring to go.”

Niagara Falls USA’s team said: “As one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls continues to captivate millions of visitors each year. Located on the U.S. side of the Falls, Niagara Falls State Park offers an unparalleled experience with breathtaking views, educational opportunities, and unforgettable activities for all ages.”

£1 million cannabis farm discovered in Oldham

Helen Greaney
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0
£1 million cannabis farm discovered in Oldham

A cannabis farm worth £1 million has been discovered in Oldham.

Following information from members of the public, police forced entry to a property at Higginshaw Lane in Royton on Wednesday.

A detailed inspection, which was part of Operation AVRO, found the electricity supply had been bypassed too as part of a sophisticated setup.

Officers arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis.

An investigation has been launched, whilst the haul will be dismantled, seized and destroyed.

Inspector Stuart Berry of GMP’s Oldham District, said: “This is a great example of our neighbourhood officers acting on information from the public to keep our communities safe.

“We know drugs supply has widespread consequences across Greater Manchester, and in Oldham we are determined to continue our approach of taking the fight back to the criminals on issues that matter the most to our local residents.

“We will continue to listen to concerns and take them on board when prioritising where in your community we need to have visible presence and what we need focus on to make people feel safer.

“You can report any concerns to us by calling 101 or through our Live Chat function at gmp.police.uk, or alternatively speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their website.”

North West businesses accounted for 14% of UK administrations in 2024

Helen Greaney
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North West businesses accounted for 14% of UK administrations in 2024

North West businesses accounted for 14% of administrations in 2024 – the second highest region in the UK – according to analysis by law firm Shakespeare Martineau.

More than 1,700 UK businesses, 248 of which came from the North West, filed for administration last year – marking a 28% and 5% increase compared to 2022 and 2023 respectively.

Retail, construction, hospitality, manufacturing and real estate were the worst-hit sectors for the second year in a row, collectively accounting for 55% of the 1,718 administrations.

Regionally, Greater London led the way with 23% of the filings, followed by the North West (14%) and the South East (11%), data from The Gazette Official Public Record has revealed.

With administrations approaching pre-Covid levels (1,794), an insolvency and restructuring expert has warned that ongoing tough trading conditions, rising geopolitical tensions and new tax burdens could tip even more businesses into financial distress.

Andy Taylor (pictured), partner and head of restructuring at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “In 2025, businesses across the UK will face an increasingly challenging environment, with a perfect storm of factors threatening to push more companies toward financial difficulty.

“Prolonged periods of difficult trading, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and the impact of new tax burdens introduced in the latest budget, will intensify the pressures many businesses are already grappling with.

“The increase in national insurance contributions, coupled with the lower threshold for payments, will stretch cash flows for companies that are already operating on razor-thin margins.

“Labour-intensive sectors, such as retail, hospitality and construction are particularly vulnerable as they often struggle to absorb rising overheads and additional costs.

“In addition to these financial pressures, many businesses are still dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic, inflationary costs and supply chain disruptions, which have left them more fragile and less able to weather the storm.

“As we saw in 2024, sectors like retail, hospitality and manufacturing were hit hardest, and there is a real risk that without targeted support, more businesses will be forced to make difficult decisions, including cost-cutting measures, layoffs or even closure.

“These pressures are only compounded by the uncertainty in the global economy, which has already led to weakened consumer confidence and subdued spending. While many experts predict a potential easing of inflation in 2025, the overall landscape remains unpredictable.

“It is crucial businesses do not bury their heads in the sand and ignore the signs of distress. Proactively assessing financial health, engaging with advisors early and taking steps to mitigate risks will be vital in navigating these turbulent times.

“Our advice remains consistent: seeking professional advice as soon as financial challenges become apparent opens up more options and can dramatically increase the chances of survival in what will likely be another tough year ahead.”

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