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Myerson Solicitors welcomes Victoria Davies to award-winning employment team

Helen Greaney
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Myerson Solicitors welcomes Victoria Davies to award-winning employment team

Myerson Solicitors, a top UK 200 law firm based in Altrincham, is delighted to announce the appointment of Victoria Davies as legal director in its employment team.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the field, Victoria joins from international law firm Addleshaw Goddard, bringing a wealth of expertise to the highly regarded team.

Throughout her career, Victoria has advised a diverse range of businesses, from major corporates to SMEs. Her experience spans day-to-day employment advice, such as handling workforce changes and resolving workplace disputes, to supporting businesses through organisational restructures and managing complex tribunal claims.

She has represented clients in high-stakes employment disputes, including litigation involving post-termination restrictions, confidentiality breaches, and sensitive claims such as whistleblowing and discrimination cases.

Victoria’s career also includes significant in-house legal experience, gained during secondments with a leading commercial airline and a global energy company. This hands-on experience has provided her with valuable insight into the practical challenges faced by businesses and HR teams, enabling her to deliver pragmatic and commercially focused solutions tailored to client needs.

Victoria’s appointment further strengthens Myerson’s Employment Law Team, which was crowned Employment Team of the Year at the 2024 Manchester Legal Awards and is now the largest in the North West outside Manchester City Centre.

The team of 12 advises both employers and employees and has seen growing demand for its services, including its highly popular Myerson HR retainer, which provides comprehensive employment law and HR support to businesses.

Joanne Evans, head of the employment team at Myerson, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Victoria to the firm. She and I worked together previously at Addleshaw Goddard before I joined Myerson, so I know what a strong and client-focused lawyer she is. Her depth of experience, particularly in navigating complex disputes and working in-house, adds even more strength to the support we offer our clients. Victoria’s arrival comes at an exciting time for our busy team, and we are delighted to have her on board.”

2024 was an outstanding year for Myerson, marked by 15% organic growth and its transition to employee ownership. The substantial and growing team of talented employment lawyers is well-positioned to support clients through the significant changes in employment legislation introduced by the Labour government, and challenges such as restructures to counter increasing employment costs, a competitive job market and the growing focus on employment disputes.

Aira hosts parliamentary event to accelerate UK transition to heat pumps

Helen Greaney
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Aira hosts parliamentary event to accelerate UK transition to heat pumps

Aira, the Manchester energy-tech company, hosted its first heat pump event of 2025 in parliament to highlight outdated policy barriers hindering the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating.

The event brought together around 100 stakeholders including Miatta Fahnbulleh, minister for Energy Consumers, Bill Esterson MP, government officials, industry leaders and policymakers.

According to the latest data from MCS, 2024 was a record year with nearly 60,000 heat pump installations across the UK.

However, this is only 10% of the UK’s annual target of 600,000 installations per year by 2028, highlighting the urgent need for change, commitment and action.

Aira explored solutions for accelerating the adoption of sustainable heating technologies amidst the global climate crisis, cost-of-living pressures and increasing need for energy security in the UK.

Currently, 25 million fossil fuel boilers in the UK account for 16% of the nation’s total CO2 emissions, a stark contrast to Sweden where 1% of the country’s carbon emissions are from residential heating and 92% of all new heating systems sold are heat pumps.

As the UK’s North Sea gas fields decline, Britain is heavily reliant on imported gas, leaving British people increasingly vulnerable to volatile international markets and soaring prices; however, as event delegates heard from Aira, heat pumps offer a significant opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions, save people money, balance the electricity grid and achieve net zero by 2050.

By switching from a gas boiler to an Aira Heat Pump and clean electricity tariff, Aira Zero, households will save approximately £525 per year on their energy bills, making the transition to heat pumps even more financially appealing.

Collaboration with government and industry

While applauding initiatives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Aira emphasised the need for further collaboration. The company outlined three key policy asks to accelerate the UK’s transition:

  1. Timeline for planning reform: Aira urged the government to set an implementation date for planning regulation changes by the end of this month to avoid delays.
  2. Reduce electricity costs: Aira called for rebalancing levies on electricity bills to unlock electrification across the country, while enhancing the cost saving benefits even further.
  3. Expand subsidy schemes: Adapting schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to support third-party ownership models would make heat pumps even more accessible to households.

Daniel Särefjord, Aira UK CEO (speaking in picture) said: “The UK heat pump market has just achieved another record-breaking year, with sales doubling in the past 24 months, yet there is much to be done. Aira already increases heat pump accessibility for homeowners with an all-inclusive plan, monthly payment solutions, and a 15-year Aira Guarantee; but we can’t do it alone.

“It is imperative that the government works to establish a market that recognises advancements in heat pump technology and supports a growing network of installers, manufacturers and businesses. Outdated policy barriers that hinder the nation’s transition to low-carbon heating need to be reformed, helping more people to access cleaner, money-saving heating solutions and cementing the UK a global leader in sustainable innovation, driven by British-made renewable energy.”

Bill Esterson MP, chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee said: “We recently launched the Green Skills Inquiry on how to build the workforce to meet the UK’s clean energy mission, so it is hugely encouraging that Aira is looking to hire 20,000 Clean Energy Experts across the UK and Europe to meet the demand for decarbonised homes. Aira’s mission to deliver low-cost, clean, sustainable energy aligns superbly with the ambition of the Government to make Britain a clean energy superpower.”

Lych Gate: 19th century landmark reopened after restoration

Helen Greaney
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Lych Gate: 19th century landmark reopened after restoration

A historical 19th century structure in Chorlton has been restored to its former glory following restoration works.

The Grade II Listed Building was officially reopened yesterday.

More than 130 years after it first opened, the renovation means the landmark now has full a timber restoration for its octagonal, black and white, half-timbered bell tower with tiled spirelet.

The triangular roofs incorporate new chutes following damage from damp, the brickwork has been cleaned, and restored pairs have been made to the pathway and infill panels.

Lych Gate was gifted to Chorlton by the politician and barrister Sir William Cunliffe Brooks, 1st Baronet, to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “I am thrilled to see the restoration of Lych Gate complete following the hard work by our teams. “The landmark has a rich history in Chorlton. It is an iconic part of the local community, with connections to the former church and the reign of Queen Victoria.  “It’s restoration means it continues to stand proud in the area for more years to come.”

Peter, a member of the Friends of Chorlton Graveyard Group, said: “We formed the committee to save the graveyard and Lych Gate was the first item on the list. We examined the gate and found a crack so alerted the local councillors. Councillor Mathew Benham then progressed with the council, acquiring the permissions and funding to save this heritage building.”

Man jailed for violent robbery in city centre

Helen Greaney
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Man jailed for violent robbery in city centre

A robber has been jailed after attacking a man who was enjoying drinks while visiting from Hong Kong.

At around 11.20pm on Friday, July 12, 2024, the victim, in his 30s, had been out enjoying the city centre before walking back to his hotel.

He was approached on Back George Street by Ahmed Elgamodi (27) who offered him cannabis.

Following a short chat, Elgamodi violently threw the man to the floor and assaulted him. The victim suffered swelling to his head.

The offender then grabbed the victim’s phone and ran off.

Police were called and an immediate investigation was launched, with CCTV being obtained by attending officers. Within two hours, an officer was able to identify Elgamodi, who was on a pedal bike in the city centre.

Following a short pursuit in which he refused to stop, Elgamodi was formally arrested for robbery offences. He was convicted of the robbery at Manchester Crown Court on January 14.

Elgamodi, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to five years and two months for the robbery, with an additional two years for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, following a separate investigation.

A Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) also excludes him from parts of Manchester for eight years.

PC Jamie Acton, from GMP’s Manchester Central Neighbourhood Team, said: “This disgusting attack on a visitor to our city is not something we will ever tolerate, and I am glad that Elgamodi was quickly identified and arrested following the robbery.

“The investigation into this incident was in conjunction with one into drug supply across Manchester, and ensured a seven-year sentencing. I hope Elgamodi takes time to think about his actions while in the four walls of a prison cell.”

Trammell Crow Company secures permission to deliver Heywood logistics scheme

Helen Greaney
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Trammell Crow Company secures permission to deliver Heywood logistics scheme

Real estate developer Trammell Crow Company (TCC), has secured planning permission following a successful appeal for a 480,469 sq ft logistics scheme in Heywood.

TCC will deliver industrial and logistics space in two buildings, with two units (one at 51,623sq ft and the second, 47,468sq ft) in one building with the option to combine depending on occupier demand, and a third unit spanning 381,378 sq ft) in a separate building.

The site on Manchester Road is strategically positioned with direct access to Junction 19 of the M62, and is three miles east of the M60/M62/M66 intersection, providing access to the entire north west region.

Having submitted its application in October 2022, TCC secured planning permission for the scheme from the Planning Inspectorate following a successful planning appeal.

Russell Homes, which has outline consent for the 318-acre South Heywood masterplan nearby, had previously opposed Trammell Crow’s project, claiming the value of the 1,000 residential units within its masterplan would be impacted by the proposed scheme.

TCC will target BREEAM Excellent certification and an EPC A rating. The development will feature timber structures and air source heat pumps for the offices, 100% photovoltaic-ready roofing and zero-carbon warehouse frames, while also enabling significant biodiversity net gain.

Sophie Watkin, UK planning director at Trammell Crow Company, said: “Having worked closely with Rochdale Borough Council over the past couple of years, we are very pleased with this decision, which is a reflection on the perseverance and expertise of our team and advisors. We look forward to working with the council and other stakeholders to deliver a first-class sustainable scheme that creates new jobs and economic opportunities for the community.”

A general contractor is expected to be appointed this year, and TCC will complete the scheme in summer 2026.

Gibanks accelerates growth with a senior appointment

Helen Greaney
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Gibanks accelerates growth with a senior appointment

Premium serviced office provider Gilbanks is supporting its growth plans with the appointment of Joanna Pawlikowski to the new role of head of commercial.

Joanna brings a wealth of experience, having held senior positions with flexible workspace providers in Australia for over ten years. As the company expands nationally, she will be responsible for business development and the commercial team.

She said: “Gilbanks brings something unique to the market with exceptional workspaces designed for professional companies. The service the team provides is exemplary, and I look forward to supporting the company’s growth as it expands across the UK.”

Gilbanks is currently letting its latest 34,000 sq ft development in the £400 million St Michaels development in Manchester. It will create its largest community for office professionals to date and build on successful operations in Leeds and 11 York Street in Manchester city centre.

The company has established a niche in the market by offering professional firms a premium working environment with high service levels and building strong business communities through strategic events and introductions.

Alex Duckett, managing director of Gilbanks, said: “We have ambitious growth plans this year, and Joanna will play a key role in supporting our expansion. She brings a deep understanding of the market and a passion for our approach to supporting our customers.”

Communities at the centre of research into health inequalities

Helen Greaney
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Communities at the centre of research into health inequalities

Manchester is putting communities at the heart of policy to improve health outcomes in the city following a successful bid to establish a Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC).

The HDRC is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). It will connect the council, University of Manchester researchers and other academic institutions to give local people an equal say in research and the ability to influence decisions made from that research, using both real-life experiences and building on current ways of doing things, to make sure the benefits last long after the programme ends.

The funding approval has now been given following last year’s submission to the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

The collaboration, led by Manchester City Council, University of Manchester and partner organisations, is a significant step in uniting Manchester academic institutions and residents with other key players including voluntary and faith organisations, and public and private sector partners.

It aims to enhance better understanding of the factors affecting health and health inequalities, increase research capacity and use this evidence to inform future policy and planning and improve health outcomes in areas of high deprivation.

Councillor Thomas Robinson said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Manchester to lead the way in tackling health inequalities by ensuring that local people’s voices are at the heart of shaping policy. By building our research capacity and working closely with partners and local people across the city we can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges our communities face and create evidence-based solutions that will have a real and lasting impact on people’s lives.

“This collaboration allows us to continue to shape the future of health and wellbeing in our city which is the central tenet of our Making Manchester Fairer Programme to address health inequity and preventable deaths by looking at all the social factors that mean that some people in the city die earlier than others.”

Professor Arpana Verma from The University of Manchester, academic lead for the HDRC, said: “We are so proud that Manchester has been awarded full HDRC status. This is a testament to our communities and public contributors who have helped us as the HDRC team create a plan of work that will strengthen our partnership. The HDRC will ensure we continue to hear the voices of the unheard, make the invisible, visible and making sure that we don’t leave anyone behind.

“Putting people at the heart of this exciting initiative is vital for inclusive research and improving health and wellbeing. As we look to the next five years, we will continue to build our research-active communities and research-responsive policies to tackle inequalities together.”

Audenshaw raid revealed 150 cannabis plants

Helen Greaney
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Audenshaw raid revealed 150 cannabis plants

Five rooms full of cannabis plants at various stages of their growth cycle were discovered during a raid in Audenshaw.

Officers from the Tameside Neighbourhood Team executed the warrant on Manchester Road yesterday morning, with a subsequent search recovering the items.

In all, approximately 150 plants were recovered from the scene, along with numerous paraphernalia, growing equipment, and more.

A 59-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis. He remains in custody for questioning.

The work comes as part of the team’s wider work in combating drug supply across the district.

Sergeant Stuart Charlesworth said: “We are committed to combating drugs supply in all its form across our district and I am happy with today’s positive result, which saw more than 150 plants seized.

“Drugs and the supply of them is a very serious matter and one which we dedicate numerous resources to tackling. Much of our intelligence comes from within communities themselves and I would urge anyone who has any concerns about suspicious behaviour to get in touch with their local neighbourhood team.”

You can also report information via 101, the Live Chat service at gmp.police.uk, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

New public procurement workshops running in Tameside

Helen Greaney
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New public procurement workshops running in Tameside

Businesses in Tameside are urged to make the most of major changes to public contract procurement.

A fully funded workshop by GM Business Growth Hub on creating a consistent bidding strategy and proposal drafting for public procurement contracts, is being offered to the Tameside business community.

The workshop will help them understand the significance of the new Procurement Act 2023, and environmental and social value impacts in public sector tenders.

The rules that shape how public bodies buy goods and services are changing with the aim of creating a more simple and flexible public procurement ecosystem.

Head of enterprise at the Hub, Yvonne Sampson, believes its a fantastic opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Tameside to securing long-term procurement contracts.

She said: “Long term contracts can be a lifeline as it provides a steady source of income, allowing businesses to build upon a solid foundation.”

Recognising that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) may struggle to seize these opportunities, GM Business Growth Hub, in collaboration with STAR Procurement and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), are offering a fully funded workshop for the Tameside business community on January 24.

Attendees will learn how to create a consistent strategic approach to bidding, structure and write compelling proposals, and understand how buyers evaluate submissions. They will also explore the significance of environmental and social value impacts in public sector tenders.

More importantly, participants will receive the latest updates on local procurement initiatives, providing a valuable opportunity to stay abreast of contracting opportunities in the area. The workshop will also cover identifying lucrative bidding opportunities and improving the chances of securing contracts, especially for businesses in the construction sector and supply chain.

“For many businesses, the intricacies of formal bids and tenders can appear daunting, from complex processes to resource limitations and stiff competition from larger firms,” added Yvonne.

“Our workshop is designed to demystify the bidding process and equip attendees with the strategies needed for success.”

Interested organisations can register for the event, which runs from 9.30am – 1pm on Friday, January 24, here: https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/events/tameside-public-procurement-how-to-write-quotations-proposals-tenders/

How HMI systems help minimise human error in industrial processes

Helen Greaney
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How HMI systems help minimise human error in industrial processes

Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems are revolutionising the industrial sector by reducing human errors and improving operational efficiency.

As industries increasingly adopt automation, the precision offered by HMI systems becomes indispensable. With user-friendly interfaces and real-time monitoring capabilities, these systems bridge the gap between complex machinery and human operators.

The incorporation of HMI in industrial processes enhances productivity. It ensures operational accuracy and safety. By offering actionable insights and intuitive controls, HMI systems allow operators to make informed decisions quickly, minimising the risk of costly mistakes.

Understanding HMI systems and their role in the industry

HMI systems serve as the central interface between humans and industrial machines. These systems provide operators with visual representations of data, enabling them to monitor performance, detect issues, and adjust controls in real time. From touchscreens to mobile devices, HMI systems are designed for accessibility and ease of use.

Core benefits of HMI in industrial settings

The benefits of integrating HMI systems extend beyond operational efficiency, offering enhanced control, data insights, and safety.

  • Enhanced data visualisation

HMI systems present complex data in simplified formats, such as graphs, charts, and dashboards. This allows operators to interpret data efficiently, reducing errors caused by misinterpretation.

  • Real-time monitoring

Constant updates from HMI systems ensure that operators stay informed about machinery performance. Real-time alerts highlight anomalies, allowing immediate corrective action.

  • Customised controls

With adjustable settings, operators can tailor HMI systems to specific processes, ensuring precision and consistency.

Reducing human error with HMI technology

HMI systems are specifically designed to minimise the risk of human errors during industrial operations. Their advanced features optimise accuracy, streamline processes, and improve overall reliability.

  • Simplified processes for operators

Industrial workflows often involve intricate machinery and numerous variables. HMI systems simplify these processes by automating repetitive tasks and reducing the cognitive load on operators. By presenting only the necessary information, HMI systems help prevent errors stemming from information overload.

  • Predictive maintenance capabilities

Human errors in maintenance scheduling or execution can lead to equipment failures. HMI systems offer predictive maintenance features, using real-time data to identify potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach minimises downtime and ensures seamless operations.

  • Improved decision-making

With access to real-time analytics, operators can make decisions based on accurate and current information. HMI systems provide actionable insights that enable swift and precise responses, reducing the likelihood of errors during critical operations.

Enhancing workplace safety with HMI

Safety is a critical component of industrial operations, and HMI systems ensure it remains a priority. These systems integrate essential safety features into everyday workflows.

  • Streamlining safety protocols

HMI systems integrate safety protocols into operational workflows, ensuring compliance with industry standards. From emergency shutdown procedures to safety alerts, these systems safeguard both operators and equipment.

  • Reducing physical interaction with machines

By enabling remote monitoring and control, HMI systems reduce the need for operators to physically interact with potentially hazardous machinery. This not only minimises human error but also enhances workplace safety.

The growing importance of HMI systems in modern industries

As industries evolve, the adoption of HMI systems is becoming increasingly important. Their adaptability and scalability make them a core element of modern industrial environments.

  • Adapting to technological advancements

As industries adopt smarter technologies, the role of HMI systems continues to expand. From managing advanced robotics to overseeing IoT-enabled devices, HMI systems are central to modern industrial operations.

  • Addressing industry-specific challenges

Whether in manufacturing, energy, or healthcare, HMI systems cater to specific industry needs. Their flexibility and scalability make them an ideal solution for diverse operational requirements.

How do HMI systems help minimise human error in industrial processes?

HMI systems have become a cornerstone of industrial efficiency, offering a range of benefits that significantly reduce human error. By simplifying operations, improving data interpretation, and enhancing decision-making, these systems ensure seamless processes and safer workplaces.

Collaborating with trusted energy brands amplifies the advantages of HMI systems. Reputable partners bring expertise, high-quality solutions, and dependable support, ensuring your operations remain efficient and resilient. Investing in such partnerships empowers industries to achieve greater productivity, sustainability, and operational excellence.

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