East Anglia in Business 10 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF EAST ANGLIA ISSUE 10

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FO REWORD

FOREWORD Reflecting the many different forms investment can take, we turn our attention this issue to some of the exciting developments currently reshaping this dynamic region.

he ground-breaking enterprise behind one of them, Suffolk’s Integrated Care Academy, has attracted global attention because of the potential health benefits its research could reap. The result of a partnership between a university, a council and a range of healthcare organisations, the academy’s research lead, Age Care Technologies (ACT), has won the international Information Society Prize for Innovation in Healthy Ageing.

A new cross-sector taskforce across in the Fens has, if anything, even greater ambition. Our cover feature this edition, the broad ranging Future Fens Integrated Adaptation project is designed to build resilience to the impact of climate change, stimulate housing growth and job creation, lead to the upgrade of transport links, improve biodiversity and support new opportunities for tourism. The project is described as radical and the first of its kind in the UK.

Having seen off competition from 80 digi-tech companies located all over the world, including technologies backed by Amazon, ACT chief executive Prof. Ian Philp said his approach was driven by the three key challenges he saw in older people’s care worldwide. Meanwhile, plans to transform the former industrial area of east Norwich into a highly sustainable quarter have taken a step forward with the appointment of consultants. Great Yarmouth Borough Council has started providing free public wifi that is part and parcel of its £4.6m Market Place redevelopment. And over in Cambridgeshire, the Growth Works Fund has awarded 32 business grants which are expected to generate more than 300 jobs and capital expenditure in excess of £11m. Growth Fund chairman Nigel Parkinson said: “With the economy beginning to open up and businesses looking to the future with growing certainty, these grants are being awarded at a time when they will have the most impact.”

Helen Compson Editor, East Anglia in Business

issue 10

CO NTE NTS

CON T E N TS

Foreword 03 Reflecting the many different forms investment can take, we turn our attention this issue to some of the exciting developments currently reshaping this dynamic region.

Ecommerce and technology 12|13 Visitors to Great Yarmouth’s Market Place can now access free public wi-fi as part of the cross-Channel Go Trade project that’s helping to revitalise historic markets.

Environment 06|09 New plans to bring economic, environmental and social benefit across the Fens in UK first.

Training & Development 16|17 Sustainability 10|11 A new €4m cross-border project between England and France will help to improve how local areas mitigate and adapt to the threats of increased future water scarcity and drought in England and France.

It’s a question that is often contemplated: what will the future workplace look like by the time today’s primary school students get there? I’m a passionate believer and advocate for broadening our learning pathways and creating opportunities for all of us as “lifelong learners”.

CO N TENTS

Editor Helen Compson helen.compson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Design Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF Tel: 0191 580 5990 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Advertising Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF Tel: 0191 5805990 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Social

News 18|19 Plans to transform the former industrial area of east Norwich into a highly sustainable quarter for the city have taken a step forward following the recent appointment of consultants, Avison Young.

East Anglia in Business @EAinBusiness

Life Sciences 28|29 Age Care Technologies, the lead partner in research carried out by Suffolk’s Integrated Care Academy, has won the 2021 World Summit for the Information Society Prize for Innovation in Healthy Ageing.

East Anglia in Business www.eastangliainbusiness.co.uk

Business Profile 22|23 Peterborough’s SME businesses believe there is a mixed outlook for firms in the region, but that trends demonstrate stronger performances than in 2020, according to a new report.

Renewable Energy 24|27

Commercial Development 34|35

Distinctive Publishing or East Anglia in Business cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and East Anglia in Business.

As part of ongoing investment in Felixstowe’s South Seafront, the development of a new iconic café is entering the final phase.

ScottishPower Renewables (SPR) has selected Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) as the preferred bidder to supply and install some of the world’s most powerful and productive offshore wind turbines for its £6.5 billion East Anglia Hub programme.

E NVI RON ME N T

A n g l i a n Wate r

EN V IRO N MENT

A ng l i an Wate r

NEW PLANS TO BRING ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BENEFIT ACROSS THE FENS IN UK FIRST New cross-sector taskforce will tackle climate resilience for local communities

E N VI RON ME N T A n g l i a n Wate r

Key elements to the strategy which are already being taken forward include: New multi-sector, multi-beneficiary reservoirs could provide additional water supply resilience for water companies, farmers and the food industry, and improve the water environment; Exploring the flood resilience measures needed to support growth areas in the Fens, enabling key local infrastructure projects such as a rail connection from Wisbech to Cambridge and the dualling of the A47 to move forward; Enhancement of open water channels for nature and biodiversity, tourism and navigation, as well as further water storage and flood risk management benefits; Unlocking the full potential of the grade 1 agricultural land across the Fens would add billions of pounds to the local economy and benefit local people in terms of skills, jobs and new opportunities.

n ambitious new multi-agency taskforce seeks to bring renewed prosperity to the Fens through a radical new approach to managing land and water resources. Future Fens Integrated Adaptation will deliver resilience to the impacts of climate change, unlock housing growth and job creation, allow for upgraded transport links, improve biodiversity and support new opportunities for tourism. The project is the first of its kind anywhere in the UK. The initiative is a collaboration between Anglian Water, Water Resources East, the Environment Agency, and many regional partners. It will align multiple agencies and sectors to manage water resources holistically, unlocking a wealth of new opportunities for the area, which has historically been held back by its propensity to flood, given its position below sea level, and its poor transport connections. By integrating flood management with securing water supply, water is treated as an asset to be valued rather than a problem to be got rid of. More certainty in long term flood resilience along with a resilient water supply allow for social challenges to also be addressed, as investment can be made in things like better transport connectivity and much-needed housing in an area that currently suffers from significant underinvestment and deprivation. Protecting some of the UK’s best agricultural land by addressing future climate risks also allows for the introduction of higher value crops, creating jobs, training and employment opportunities.

Wednesday’s taskforce launch, chaired by Anglian Water CEO Peter Simpson, drew together over 80 different stakeholders from 47 different organisations representing national and local government, agriculture, business, academia, energy and environmental sectors, all with the shared goal of driving forward progress in the Fens. The initiative has attracted cross-party support, with the launch addressed by the Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and MP for North East Cambridgeshire, who has contibuted long-standing support to the project. He was joined by the new Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Mayor, Dr Nik Johnson, as well as Environment Agency Chair Emma Howard Boyd. The Fens is the only specific region highlighted in the Environment Agency’s national flood risk strategy, and this initiative will be the centrepiece of Water Resources East’s regional plan for water management in the East of England, as well as forming a central part of Anglian Water’s Water Resources Management Plan. Peter Simpson, CEO for Anglian Water said: “Businesses can and should make a positive difference to the communities they work within. This is why our purpose as a company goes far beyond the provision of safe, clean drinking water and water recycling services, to enhancing the environmental and social prosperity of the communities in our region. This is the ethos we embraced when we first began working in Wisbech in 2013. “Since then, and with the help of other sectors and like-minded businesses, our ambition for this area has grown into something which we hope will be a global exemplar of how to take a place-based approach as we adapt to climate change. If we are

EN V IRO N MENT

A ng l i an Wate r

to meet the tough challenges posed by growth, water scarcity, drought and flood and make a difference to the lives of local communities, then we need to think differently. My hope is that this approach will be something replicated across the UK and beyond.” Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Greater Cambridgeshire said: “Opening up renewed opportunities for the Fens is one of my central priorities. Effective water management has huge potential to unlock economic growth and job creation, alongside the clear environmental benefits in terms of biodiversity and creation of new green spaces for communities to enjoy. I welcome the opportunity to come together through this taskforce to collaborate on a better, more resilient future for our Fenland communities.”

and its over 150 members are co-creating for Eastern England. By working across the Fens through this new taskforce to join up the worlds of water scarcity, flood risk management and water quality improvement at landscape scale, we will go a long way to ensuring that the whole region can meet its environmental and economic ambitions in the face of an increasingly unpredictable climate.

Opening up renewed opportunities for the Fens is one of my central priorities. Effective water management has huge potential to unlock economic growth and job creation, alongside the clear environmental benefits in terms of biodiversity and creation of new green spaces for communities to enjoy.

Dr Robin Price, Managing Director, Water Resources East, said: The Future Fens strategy sits right at the heart of the long-term integrated cross-sector water management plan which Water Resources East

Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: “Future Fens will be a pioneer in how to adapt to the impacts of climate change across a complex low-lying landscape. It could be a global case study of how better water management not only mitigates risk, but boosts agricultural productivity, increases natural capital, supports carbon sequestration and creates jobs.”

ANGLIAN WATER www.anglianwater.co.uk

Next steps for the initiative include a detailed scoping phase to establish funding opportunities and synergies between agencies. It is hoped that Future Fens will be showcased as a global exemplar of integrated adaptation to climate change at COP26 in Glasgow in November.

SUSTAI N AB I LI T Y A n g lo - F re nch wate r

NEW PROJECT TO INCREASE RESILIENCE OF WATER STRESSED AREAS IN ENGLAND AND FRANCE A new €4m cross-border project between England and France will help to improve how local areas mitigate and adapt to the threats of increased future water scarcity and drought in England and France.

ater for Tomorrow is an EU Interreg France (Channel) England project which will develop and test innovative water management tools and decisionmaking support systems. These will enable more responsive short-term management of drought events, and better long-term planning, as well as investment in water management at a local scale.

The project will run in 5 pilot areas, three in East Anglia, one in Brittany and one in Hauts-deFrance. The project will address challenges related to over-abstraction, increasing water demand, and decreasing water availability due to climate change. Barry Bendall, Director for Operations at The Rivers Trust, said: “Water deficit is a shared

SU STAIN ABI L I TY

A ng lo-French wate r

problem which requires shared solutions. And as external pressures increase on our water systems it becomes vital for us to start working more collaboratively across the sectors and build a shared vision for how we plan for and respond to periods of water scarcity and drought. Drought is a recurring problem with a serious economic, social and environmental cost globally.” In East Anglia, many of the rivers and aquifers are unable to meet the demand for water and the lack of available water already impacts on the environment, agriculture and public water supply. All of which comes at a cost to the region in terms of additional emergency expenditure, lost income and a depletion of natural capital. In the French regions of the Channel area, the issue is emerging with more frequent and longer droughts leading to increased concerns over future public water supply and the potential for conflicts among different sectors.

interventions that can improve resilience. Support the optimisation of increasingly scarce water resources, reducing the risk of failure and related damage costs incurred by water utilities, society, business and the environment - increasing the resilience of the FCE economy and its underpinning Natural Capital. Involve all stakeholders, at the local and regional level, in the development of innovative water management approaches. Trigger exchange of experience and

Water scarcity is a recurring problem with serious economic, social and environmental cost for the Channel area. The funding for this project, will help address this challenge and increase local resilience by bringing together relevant stakeholders to co-design innovative management tools and systems.

In the Brittany pilot site, for example, risks of water supply failure could emerge around popular tourist spots as demand for water supply peaks in the summer months when water resources are scarce. In the Hautsde-France pilot site, growing demand for irrigation and from urban areas may jeopardise the water balance in the near future.

Water for Tomorrow will address these challenges by engaging with stakeholders from all sectors to co-design and test innovative operational management and planning tools and use smart technology to deliver multi-objective and costeffective outcomes across the project. In practice the project will: Carry out modelling work to identify through simulation the points of failure within the current management system and determine

cross fertilisation between French and English partners who have different yet complementary water management frameworks. Share lessons learnt, results and innovative methodologies and tools with a broad audience of water managers

ANGLO-FRENCH WATER

and planners in the Channel region. The best practice(s) identified in the project will be upscaled to other catchments and water management areas in France and England. Carolyn Reid, Programme Manager for the Interreg

France (Channel) England programme, said: “Water scarcity is a recurring problem with serious economic, social and environmental cost for the Channel area. The funding for this project, will help address this challenge and increase local resilience by bringing together relevant stakeholders to co-design innovative management tools and systems.” The project has a total budget of €4m funding of which €2,8m has been co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund via the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme.

E COMME R C E A ND T E C H NO LO GY G o Trade

FREE WI-FI HELPS PEOPLE CONNECT DIGITALLY IN GREAT YARMOUTH’S MARKET PLACE Visitors to Great Yarmouth’s Market Place can now access free public wi-fi as part of the cross-Channel Go Trade project that’s helping to revitalise historic markets.

ECO M M ERC E AN D TEC HN O LOGY

Go Trade

reat Yarmouth Borough Council is

spaces. Access to free wi-fi provides another

launching the new service to enhance the

reason for people to visit the town centre and

town centre experience for residents and

support their market traders and shops as Covid

visitors alike, supporting the £4.6m Market Place redevelopment currently underway. The wi-fi is available for free out-of-doors use by residents, visitors and market traders, and can be found on mobile devices

restricts ease.” Town centre manager Jonathan Newman, of Great Yarmouth Town Centre Partnership, said: “Having free wi-fi available will give visitors to Great Yarmouth a

under the name “Gt

fantastic added benefit

Yarmouth Free Wi-Fi” within the Market Place area. A dedicated extender to boost the signal underneath the market canopy itself will be fitted as part of the redevelopment of the market facilities. Go Trade aims to support the visitor experience and offer at nine traditional markets in England and France, with 16 project partners working together, along with market traders and other town centre businesses, to develop and implement activities and projects that support town centres and visitor economies. Cllr Carl Smith, the council leader, said: “This great free wi-fi is part of our wider work to enhance the experience of visiting the town centre and the market, supporting

Shoppers will be able to freely access the internet for information about nearby shops, services, facilities and attractions whilst traders have the potential to post live images and information about their goods on social media. The opportunities to hold digital and livestreaming events in the Market Place can also be explored as the Covid-19 restrictions begin to lift in the coming weeks and the town can encourage public gatherings once again in the Market Place.

as they shop and dwell around the Market Place and provide traders with an exciting opportunity to engage with their customers in the digital world. “Shoppers will be able to freely access the internet for information about nearby shops, services, facilities and attractions whilst traders have the potential to post live images and information about their goods on social media. hold digital and livestreaming events in the Market Place can also be explored as the Covid-19 restrictions begin to lift in the coming weeks and the town can encourage public gatherings once again in the Market Place.” Go Trade is funded with

the market facilities

€3.8 million from the

wider aspirations to enhance digital connectivity.

EU-funded Interreg France (Channel) England Programme, with additional support coming from local partners. Go

“Being able to connect digitally is so important

Trade stands for Growth of the Visitor Economy

to the vibrancy of town centres and their

through Traditional Markets, Employment and

attractiveness as places to invest, visit and

Skills. The scheme started in late 2017 and will

shop, opening up new opportunities and ways

conclude in 2022. Twitter: @GoTrade_Markets

for people to interact with local businesses and

gotrade-markets.eu

The opportunities to

our improvement of themselves and our

GO TRADE

#GoTrade

NE WS

C a m br id ge s h i re Grow th Work s

£2M FUND DESIGNED TO CREATE MORE THAN 300 JOBS Within weeks of launching, Cambridgeshire’s Growth Works fund has awarded more than £2m to 32 businesses across the county. Company chairman Nigel Parkinson said: “With the economy beginning to open up and businesses looking to the future with growing certainty, these grants are being award at a time when they will have the most impact. “Each capital grant award will be a catalyst for growth, the funding will enable all 32 businesses to create good secure jobs right across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough at a time when we know he labour market has been challenging.” He was particularly pleased to see Growth Works supporting a very diverse group of businesses across a multitude of sectors, giving enterprises in all areas of the economy the support they needed to build back better quickly and strongly.

Nigel Parkinson, Chairman of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Business Growth Company

istributed by the recently established Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Business Growth Company, the grant funding is forecast to create 321 new jobs while stimulating £11.184 million in capital expenditure. Grants have been awarded region-wide and across a wide range of sectors including automotive, electronics, engineering, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, leisure, manufacturing, retail and transport.

CAMBRIDGESHIRE GROWTH WORKS

Grants awarded ranged from £20,000 to £150,000 and applications were assessed against criteria which included quantitative value for money and qualitative elements. The quality scores were assessed on points based on geographical location, sector diversification, strategic alignment, social inclusion and apprenticeship utilisation. All projects to received grant funding are forecast to complete by April 2022.

“The success of this grant scheme sets the standard for Growth Works and the Growth Company will be ensuring these high levels of impact are maintained over the next three years,” he added. Austen Adams, chairman of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Business Board, said it was now time to turn attention to helping those hardest hit (by the pandemic) to make a strong local recovery. “The businesses supported by Growth Works have all demonstrated their potential to grow and the funding will help them enact their deliverable scale-up strategies,” he said. “The Business Board is looking forward to working with Growth Works to ensure their investments support and complement our Local Economic Recovery Strategy. “Together we can support SMEs and larger businesses to invest in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and improve opportunities for local people.”

Together we can support SMEs and larger businesses to invest in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and improve opportunities for local people.

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T RAI N I N G & DE V E LO P M E N T

C a m br id ge s h i re a nd Pe terb oro u g h Com bi ne d Author i t y

TECHNOLOGY: THE PATH FROM EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT By AL KINGSLEY It’s a question that is often contemplated: what will the future workplace look like by the time today’s primary school students get there? I’m a passionate believer and advocate for broadening our learning pathways and creating opportunities for all of us as “lifelong learners”.

e’ve just seen a completely unexpected seismic shift in employment operations, so we’re more aware than ever that nothing is guaranteed. What is certain though is that technology will play a large part. In the absence of a crystal ball however, schools are preparing their students with a solid digital skills base by using a range of technologies and developing their creative and problem-solving abilities as they progress through their education.

Students’ tech experience For today’s students, technology has always been a part of their lives. It’s not something new;

it’s just something that’s part of their world. Many homes have a range of devices in daily use, from smartphones and tablets, smart TVs and doorbells, to internet-connected fridges, app-connected power washers and more. Young people are growing up absorbing the technological knowledge from those around them that they will eventually put into practice themselves. Schools are supporting this by teaching the core competencies that will prepare students for every area of their future life and work: communication, information handling, transacting, problem solving and staying safe and legal online.

TRAIN IN G & D EV ELO PMENT

C ambr id geshire and Pe terb oro u g h Combine d Au t hor i t y

Any exposure to technology is beneficial, even though it will all be different by the time today’s students become employees. Far from the pandemic being a time of ‘lost’ learning, many students have become more independent users of technology over recent months – using it to keep in touch with friends and family, for entertainment, to learn how to do things that interest them from YouTube videos and – most significantly – to learn online from home. This autonomy and their new-found proficiencies stand them in good stead for their future employment, whether that will be adapting to changing technologies or coping with the more flexible, hybrid working between home and the office that is now becoming a reality.

Working together now, for the future

development, application and use together with existing staff – sharing information with others to create stronger and more proficient teams.

Balancing needs In return however, companies will need to recognise the importance of technology to their latest employees. These new recruits are not only tech-savvy but have also been taught to be creative problem solvers throughout their education. Businesses should be aware that increasingly, if they continue to use legacy technology without good reason or have inflexible digital practices, the talented new recruits they attract may find it frustrating to work with, especially if they know how to do things faster or more efficiently with different tools. Then it becomes a question of balancing the needs of the talent you have specifically recruited (and want to retain!) with the requirements of the business and its willingness to adapt and change with the times.

These new recruits are not only tech-savvy but have also been taught to be creative problem solvers throughout their education.

Employers can certainly benefit from engaging more closely with the tech-savvy cohort of young people currently progressing through the education system. By investing in students’ futures by hosting them for work experience placements, employers give them their first taste of the world of work and how technology is applied. And they can go further than this. Apprentices bring a myriad of benefits to companies as often, as part of their qualification requirements, they will need to learn and explore a range of technical, interpersonal and problemsolving skills that reach right across the business, which gives them experience and expertise that other employees don’t have. Importantly, apprentices can help companies address any digital skills gaps by bringing knowledge from the various solutions they’ve used at school or college and working on their

Human skills still rule Of course, technology won’t be the answer to everything in the workplace of the future. The world of businesses is based on human interaction, so we’ll still need those problem solving, faceto-face communication, empathy and social abilities. However, the combination of these with thoroughly embedded tech knowledge and digital skills – plus greater employer engagement with schools and colleges over the years to come − will make for an increasingly capable and productive workforce.

AL KINGSLEY a member of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s Business Board and Group Managing Director of NetSupport

NE WS

E a s t Nor w ich Pa r t ne rs hi p

THOUSANDS OF NEW HOMES AND JOBS PLANNED FOR NORWICH Plans to transform the former industrial area of east Norwich into a highly sustainable quarter for the city have taken a step forward following the recent appointment of consultants, Avison Young.

he consultants have now begun work on producing a masterplan for the area – which will be steered by the East Norwich Partnership (ENP) – a public-private body composed of a number of key stakeholders. Thanks to the work of partners, they successfully secured approximately £600,000 worth of funding to cover the costs of developing the master plan and associated project fees – money which was sourced from a mixture of Towns Deal funding from government as well public and private funding from members of the partnership. Once the traditional industrial heartland of the city, the masterplan area for east Norwich covers three main sites: Carrow Works

EAST NORWICH PARTNERSHIP

The Deal Ground (and former May Gurney site) The Utilities Site With much preparation and engagement work to be done over the coming year or so, the east Norwich site holds the key to the council’s aspirations to unlock its potential and deliver thousands of homes and jobs.

green infrastructure, enhanced connectivity and biodiversity, sustainable transport links between the city centre and the Broads, and maximising the area’s river regeneration potential. The preparation of the masterplan officially started on 4 March, with a project inception meeting between the consultant team and the partnership. As a result, the first steps will be to begin an engagement strategy in the summer with landowners, key members and committees. During this period we will also be seeking public opinion on what residents might like to see delivered on this site.

Key to this will be the views of our residents which will be an important part of the consultation process for the project and will ensure we take on board all the different voices as we move forward.

Graham Nelson, director of place for Norwich City Council, said: “East Norwich presents the city with a regeneration opportunity that could be transformational. “We remain committed to maximising the regeneration potential of this site, as we have for many years.

“There are a number of important stepping stones for this important project with the masterplan expected to be complete by March 2022.

The brief for the masterplan has a vision which includes the creation of a highly sustainable new quarter of the city, with the potential to harness a range of economic, social and environmental benefits.

“Key to this will be the views of our residents which will be an important part of the consultation process for the project and will ensure we take on board all the different voices as we move forward.

In addition to supporting substantial housing and employment growth, the masterplan will enable exemplary development to be delivered from a sustainability point of view, including high quality

“We will publish a timetable of all our various important activities on our website as soon as we can so that everyone can have their say on such an important regeneration project for the city, its residents and businesses.”

NEWS

E a st Nor w ich Par t ne rshi p

NE WS

S o u t h Nor fol k a nd B ro ad l and Co unc i l

FUNDING BOOST FOR HARDEST-HIT BUSINESSES Businesses that are continuing to be severely affected by the coronavirus restrictions can now apply to their local councils for further government funding.

he new Fixed Costs Support Grant, distributed to local businesses by South Norfolk and Broadland Council, will support

those sectors still subject to trading restrictions, including businesses that operate within events, conferences, weddings, live entertainment, group travel and holidays and those most dependent on these sectors for their turnover. Councillor Lisa Neal, South Norfolk Cabinet Member for Stronger

SOUTH NORFOLK AND BROADLAND COUNCIL www.southnorfolkandbroadland. gov.uk/council

Economy, said: “This new funding will support some of our worst-hit businesses and help ensure that when restrictions lift, they

most, with many unable to operate at all since last March. This money will come as a welcome relief and help them get through the last few weeks of restrictions.” The grant is the third round of support to come from the Government’s Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) funding, which has been available to support local businesses since December 2020.

This new funding will support some of our worst-hit businesses and help ensure that when restrictions lift, they are ready to reopen and bounce back.

are ready to reopen and bounce back.” Broadland District Council’s Portfolio holder for Economic Development, Councillor Jo Copplestone, said: “It’s been a tough year for most of our local businesses, but the tourism, events and entertainment sector has fared worse than

Under this phase of the scheme, support is limited to certain business sectors, meaning the councils are unable to consider applications from retail, self-contained holiday accommodation, takeaways, those that operate within the personal care sector or any other business able to reopen since 12 April

2021. Businesses can check if they are eligible and apply at www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/businesssuppport or https://www.broadland.gov.uk/ coronavirus/businesses

NEWS

S o ut h Nor fol k and B roadl and Co unc i l

BU S I N ES S P RO F IL E Gre ate r Pe te r b oro u g h

SURVEY REVEALS OPTIMISM OF PETERBOROUGH SMES Peterborough’s SME businesses believe there is a mixed outlook for firms in the region, but that trends demonstrate stronger performances than in 2020, according to a new report.

he 2021 Greater Peterborough Survey, undertaken in March by UK-wide regional accountancy and business advisor Azets in conjunction with Opportunity Peterborough, shows that nearly two-thirds (65%) expect to enjoy either a stronger or much stronger performance over the next 12 months. A growing proportion of respondents also indicate they plan to invest in higher staffing levels and more capital projects. More businesses had a stronger performance last year (47%) than the year before (44%), the survey

concludes in what is its eighth year. COVID-19 has impacted on local businesses in completely opposite ways, some having the best year ever, while others had little or no income and have struggled to survive. A significant swing in those showing a weaker performance - nearly doubling to 40% - is attributed to the effects of the virus, and businesses experiencing little or no impact are in the minority. In contrast, a large majority of those surveyed claim there will be no impact on them from Brexit,

BU SIN ESS PROFI L E

Gre ater Pe terb oro u g h

although a quarter indicated a negative impact. The main change from last year is that now very few firms suggest that Brexit will have a positive impact. According to the survey, approximately 22% of businesses expect to seek larger premises in the next five years, similar to recent years, although with the advent of working from home, 29% of respondents indicate they might reduce office space going forward. However, recruitment issues including finding the right skills continue to be one of the major challenges businesses in the region face. Mark Jackson, partner at Azets’ office on Lincoln Road, Peterborough, urges firms to take note of the report’s findings. He said: “Businesses across Greater Peterborough cover a wide variety of sectors and perhaps that is part of how we manage to be more resilient than other cities. “Many businesses who gave their views highlighted how they have been able to adapt successfully to change. This ability is perhaps amongst the most important skills needed by leaders of any organisation.” While he hoped there wouldn’t be the need to adapt to anything remotely like COVID-19 again, the ability to be flexible would continue to be crucial in this time of great change to the economy, customer needs, staff requirements and expectations, and new technology. “The work being done by many in Peterborough to continue to develop education and skills remains vital,” he added. Tom Hennessy, chief executive at Opportunity Peterborough, said: “Nearly every business has been impacted by lockdowns and remote working, but the effect on performance has been disparate. Last year was a very mixed year, with some businesses having their best year ever while others were struggling to survive.

recovery in job postings in the UK in April 2021, when compared to February 2020. Analysis from the think tank Centre for Cities also showed Peterborough was one of just nine cities to see actual growth in its local jobs markets. This was reflected in the survey too, with 40% of respondents expecting a slight increase in staffing levels. Very few were considering operating with fewer staff and nearly 50% were expecting no change.

Many businesses who gave their views highlighted how they have been able to adapt successfully to change. This ability is perhaps amongst the most important skills needed by leaders of any organisation.

Tom said: “It’s been an unpredictable period, but with the majority of respondents expecting to achieve stronger or much stronger performance over the next 12 months there is certainly optimism for the future.

“Although the government put in numerous schemes to incentivise businesses to keep staff on their payroll, the jobs market has taken a knock.”

“However, for some it will be tough and we’d encourage local companies to get in touch with us for free, impartial and expert support.”

However, in a promising sign of recovery, and more good news for those actively seeking employment, Peterborough had recorded the 8th highest

To view the 2021 Greater Peterborough Survey please go to https://hubs.la/H0MCD0k0

MARK JACKSON Partner at Azets

R E N E WAB LE E NE R GY E a s t A ng l i a ON E

REN EWABLE ENERGY E a st A ng li a ON E

PREFERRED BIDDER CHOSEN FOR EAST ANGLIA HUB TURBINES ScottishPower Renewables (SPR) has selected Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) as the preferred bidder to supply and install some of the world’s most powerful and productive offshore wind turbines for its £6.5 billion East Anglia Hub programme.

R E N E WAB LE E NE R GY E a s t A ng l i a ON E

his builds on the companies’ successful track record in working together to deliver the East Anglia ONE offshore windfarm, which was completed last year and has delivered significant jobs and economic benefits for the East of England. SPR and SGRE have agreed to work together ahead of the next Contracts for Difference auction – scheduled for later this year – to optimise the projects, with the ambition of then signing turbine supply and installation agreements.

East Anglia ONE supported almost 3,500 jobs at the peak of construction and delivered 100 longterm skilled jobs, with more than half the supply chain coming from the UK market. This included SGRE manufacturing turbine blades in the UK and supporting jobs within local ports, including Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.

More than 200 next generation turbines are planned for SPR’s East Anglia ONE North, TWO and THREE projects in the southern North Sea – collectively known as the East Anglia Hub.

The Hub projects would create a pipeline of continued economic investment that will support jobs and opportunities across the East of England. SPR will continue to work closely with local authorities, groups and local colleges to maximise the potential positive outcomes for local people, building on the success of East Anglia ONE.

Selecting a preferred bidder at such an early stage in the development of the Hub projects creates the opportunity for SPR and SGRE to develop the turbine design and the Hub programme hand in hand, which will help achieve further efficiencies and maximise local supply chain opportunities.

SPR will also continue to work with local stakeholders to deliver internship and projectbased work, providing young people across East Anglia with valuable work experience and industry knowledge that could set them up for a future career.

The East Anglia Hub projects have the potential to deliver more than 7.5% of the UK’s 40GW target for offshore wind generation by 2030 as set out in the Government’s Ten Point Plan. To deliver on the Plan’s ambitions, this year’s Contracts for Difference auction will need to ensure sufficient deployment to put the UK on track to achieve this target.

SPR is part of the Iberdrola Group, which is a world leader in renewable energy.

The potential supply and installation of the East Anglia Hub turbines by SGRE would enable SPR to build on the achievements of East Anglia ONE in

terms of jobs and UK supply chain content.

Jonathan Cole, Offshore Managing Director of Iberdrola Renewables said: “Offshore wind is now one of the cheapest forms of renewable generation and the approach we’re taking with East Anglia Hub – in conjunction with SGRE – shows just how far the industry has come and how well placed we are to deliver the Government’s 40GW target for offshore wind within the next decade.

REN EWABLE ENERGY E a st A ng li a ON E

“Taking advantage of the most innovative technology available to ensure East Anglia Hub is home to some of the biggest and most productive turbines on the market would allow us to realise even greater economies of scale, helping to deliver a cleaner and greener future for us all. “We’ve already shown what we can achieve through our East Anglia ONE windfarm, which has been a huge success and represents one of the biggest and the most innovative offshore wind projects in the market. And not just in terms of producing green energy and helping tackle the climate emergency, but in having a positive and tangible impact on people, places and businesses. The facts really do speak for themselves and position us perfectly to emulate that success for East Anglia Hub.

with ScottishPower Renewables towards the next CfD auction to potentially construct more worldleading wind power plants, the East Anglia Hub, following the successful completion of the East Anglia ONE project in 2020. “These projects could be significant for many reasons, including the input that it will make to both the UK's National Grid and to employment on the east coast of England. For Siemens Gamesa, the potential deployment of our most innovative offshore wind turbine would enable us to additionally aid the UK government's plans for the green recovery by delivering clean energy and meaningful employment for years to come.”

We are delighted to be partnering with ScottishPower Renewables towards the next CfD auction to potentially construct more world-leading wind power plants, the East Anglia Hub, following the successful completion of the East Anglia ONE project in 2020.

“This is a really exciting time for growing the offshore industry and, with SGRE selected as our preferred bidder, we can now take our efforts to the next level – building on the investment, bespoke facilities and economic benefits we’ve already delivered to support local people and jobs to create even longer-lasting legacies that benefit people and communities across the East of England.”

Andreas Nauen, CEO, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, said: “We are delighted to be partnering

EAST ANGLIA ONE www.scottishpowerrenewables.com

The initial 1,400MW of power to be generated through the Hub projects via East Anglia THREE has secured planning consent. Planning applications for East Anglia ONE North (800MW) and East Anglia TWO (900MW) are currently being examined by the UK Planning Inspectorate. Subject to the outcome of the planning considerations, construction of the East Anglia Hub is expected to commence in 2023, with completion in 2026.

LIFE S C I E N C ES I nte g rate d C a re A c ademy

UNIQUE SUFFOLK CARE ACADEMY WINS GLOBAL RECOGNITION Age Care Technologies, the lead partner in research carried out by Suffolk’s Integrated Care Academy, has won the 2021 World Summit for the Information Society Prize for Innovation in Healthy Ageing.

CT won the prestigious award after seeing off competition from 80 digi-tech companies located all over the world, including technologies backed by Amazon. The judges said they were impressed with its online solutions to understanding and managing the complexity of need in old age both locally and globally. The Integrated Care Academy, the first of its kind in this country, is an exciting partnership between the University of Suffolk, the Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care System, Suffolk County Council and Healthwatch Suffolk and others from the voluntary and community sector, such as Suffolk MIND and local hospices.

PROF. IAN PHILP Chief executive of Age Care Technologies

Prof. Ian Philp, chief executive and founder of Age Care Technologies, said “Working with international experts, we see three key challenges for older people’s care worldwide. The first is that most of the things which really matter to older people for their health and wellbeing are not reported.

The technology is easily accessible to local communities and nationwide systems. It can be used in multi cultures and geographies. Suffolk and North East Essex will be the first pilot site in the UK to work with the digital assessment, training and analytical tools. As part of the new Integrated Care Academy, hosted by the University of Suffolk, Prof. Ian Philp is working with a local team of health and care providers. They will undertake assessments and training with older people and caregivers, initially in the Ipswich and Felixstowe area, then in other parts of Suffolk and North East Essex over the next three years.

By solving these problems, we can ease loneliness, reduce unnecessary pain and help people to maintain an overall healthy active life.

“The second is that most people providing care for older people are not adequately educated and trained in what really matters. The third challenge is the lack of intelligent data to inform policy, resources and services. “By solving these problems, we can ease loneliness, reduce unnecessary pain and help people to maintain an overall healthy active life. Our research over several decades has shown that we can increase independence, reduce suffering and add an extra year of high quality life on average.” ACT’s research, involving more than 100 studies in over 50 countries, has led to the development of accessible online tools to assess the growing needs of the older population that are often unheard.

There is also online training and education for caregivers and a database of data from older populations across the globe, which provides analytics for service redesign and planning.

Dr Mark Shenton, local GP and Professor of Integrated Care at the ICA, is leading the initiative locally. He said: “During 2021/22, we will be using the online assessment tool locally with 300 older people and their family carers. From 2022 onwards, we will roll out the training for caregivers. “An analysis of our data will be available nationally and internationally, in association with the World Health Organisation as well as to the significant benefit of health and care services in Suffolk and North East Essex.” In continuing to deliver assessments, training and data analytics in health and care systems worldwide, the team has ambitious targets – to improve the lives of 100 million older people by 2030 and to reduce the costs of long term care by up to 45 trillion dollars.

LIF E SC IENCES I nte g rate d C are A c ade my

ADVE RTOR I AL L a r k i ng G owe n

NEW PARTNER APPOINTED TO LARKING GOWEN CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS TEAM Regional accountancy and business advisory firm, Larking Gowen, has appointed a new partner to its Corporate Transactions team based in its Norwich office.

ack Minns qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2011, and joined Larking Gowen in 2013, working his way up to become a Director in 2020. Jack, who grew up in Beccles on the Norfolk/ Suffolk border and studied in Norwich, has wide experience of corporate transactions including business sales, acquisitions and management buy-outs with deal values ranging between £500k and £20m.

LARKING GOWEN www.larking-gowen.co.uk

He says it was an interest in the idea of what makes things sell that attracted him to Corporate Transactions. "It’s interesting and exciting work. Whether it’s buying or selling, these are landmark transactions, and you’re dealing directly with the business owners and decision-makers," he said.

As well as his role in Corporate Transactions, Jack says he is looking to contribute to the firm's expert witness and forensic accountancy work, and has been working towards this under the guidance of former Managing Partner, Jon Woolston.

Teamwork is very strong at Larking Gowen, and the Partners are very accessible and happy to speak to people on all levels within the business. The firm is ahead of the curve in employee wellbeing and engagement.

Jack continued, "Primarily, our aim is to help businesses in East Anglia with their growth and succession plans." Larking Gowen was a natural choice for Jack as a sound base to pursue his chosen career. He says the firm has "an open and empowering culture."

"Teamwork is very strong at Larking Gowen, and the Partners are very accessible and happy to speak to people on all levels within the business. The firm is ahead of the curve in employee wellbeing and engagement," he explained.

Corporate Transactions and Business Advisory Partner, James Lay, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Jack into the Larking Gowen partnership. Having worked closely with him for many years, I know first-hand how he puts the delivery of great client service at the front and centre of everything he does.

"Jack has earned a well-deserved reputation for advising numerous business owners on buying, selling and valuing private businesses. We’re proud to have Jack in our firm, and I’m sure he will continue to advise on many more successful deals in the years to come.”

ADV ERTORI AL

L ark ing G owe n

Jack Minns

ADVE RTOR I AL Open CRM

STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS PROCESSES WITH CRM When it comes to productivity, it is a well-known fact that the UK’s averages are below other G7 countries and well below where it should be. But there’s no reason your own business can’t buck that trend. Part of it will be about hiring the right people, but that’s not the end of it.

ou also have to make sure that they are able to work efficiently and that your business processes are streamlined.

Having streamlined business process is all about ensuring that all those tasks your team carry out are assigned to the right person, to complete at the right time, with the right resources, and without any unnecessary steps to slow things down. Talking about streamlining processes is much easier than actually doing it. In reality, it takes close examination of each stage of each process to assess whether it is being done as efficiently as possible. And that’s where your CRM system comes into play.

Once you have identified a step in your processes that is causing a slow down or even an entire process that is just generally clunky, it’s time to find a way to streamline it. This could involve automating certain steps using your CRM system or just documenting the completion of them better. It’s probably easier to explain this with an example…

A Messy Sales Process When new Leads land on your sales team’s desk, let’s assume they are distributed out equally among the team. That sales person sends out an email

ADV ERTORI AL O p e n CR M

introducing themselves and plans to call the person within an hour or two to kick off discussions. If you are carrying this whole process out manually, there are lots of places where it could fall down. The distribution could be uneven, leading some people to be overly busy while others are just twiddling their thumbs…neither being good for your business. Then sending out the email brings with it the risk of someone sending out the wrong email or just missing out on sending it at all. And finally, the call…making sure that the call gets made AND notes are recorded? Knowing sales people as I do (hint: I am one), that call will get made 90% of the time. And making sure that call and notes from the call are documented somewhere central? …I wouldn’t hold my breath. With a CRM system, though, you can automate ever single step and go from a messy process to a streamlined and efficient one.

Streamlining this with a CRM First off, instead of relying on one person to distribute new Leads or relying on the team as a whole to share, you’d be better off using Round Robin functionality. That way, the Leads are distributed equally, respecting people’s holidays. Now everyone has an equal chance of meeting their target and no one is bored or overly busy. At the same time, you can automatically send out that initial introduction email without your team having to do anything at all. It’ll will send the right

email every time and even send so that it looks as though it comes from whoever the assigned sales person is. And finally, getting that call scheduled and documented? Again, use your CRM system to automatically schedule the call and set up your mandatory fields to ensure your sales people can’t save it without adding their notes. You could even add a series of custom fields (maybe tickboxes?) to outline your prospect’s requirements. That way you don’t have to rely on your sales team to write up detailed notes. They can just tick the things that apply.

Benefits of Streamlined Business Processes This is just one example of how you can take a fairly nebulous way of doing things and turn it into a simple, three step process that achieves a set business goal.

GRAHAM ANDERSON CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

By taking the time to examine every part of your business processes and working to streamline them, with a CRM system or something else, you can improve the general efficiency of your business as a whole. That means your team have more time for the important bits of their job. And that in turn can only improve your profitability. To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about your CRM software can benefit your business, call 01748 473000 or visit us at www.opencrm.co.uk.

COMME R C I AL D E V E LO P M E N T

Image: Warren Page, Pagepix

E a s t S u f fol k Co u nc i l

Coun. Steve Gallant, Mark Hart, Nick Loombes, Coun. Steve Wiles, Craig Carr, Coun. Craig Rivett

LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT IN FELIXSTOWE ENTERS FINAL PHASE As part of ongoing investment in Felixstowe’s South Seafront, the development of a new iconic café is entering the final phase.

arnes Construction started work on the landmark building in August last year and are now entering the final phases of the development, estimated to be completed late this summer.

exciting place to visit, live, work and invest.

Once completed, the café will play a key role in helping the town as it starts recovering from the impact of Covid-19, attracting local people and visitors alike by offering indoor and outdoor dining with unspoilt views of the seafront. This will not only support tourism, but it will also help the economy by offering local employment opportunities, making the South Seafront an

Coun. Steve Gallant, leader of East Suffolk Council and local ward member for Eastern Felixstowe, Coun. Craig Rivett, cabinet member for Economic Development, and Coun. Steve Wiles, local ward member for Eastern Felixstowe visited the site for the first time since the easing of national restrictions. All were excited to see the progress of the development and happy that work had been

The ambitious project is being delivered by East Suffolk Council, Barnes Construction, the Dedham Boathouse Group, Plaice Design, Superstructures and Gill Associates.

CO M M ERC IAL D EV ELO PMENT E a st Suf fol k Co unc i l

able to continue despite the pandemic. In a joint statement they said: “Despite the ongoing challenges we have all faced due to Covid-19, we are grateful that work is able to continue on this development, which will transform the South Seafront for years to come, ensuring it is a thriving place where people want to go, meet and spend their money. “Now more than ever, this project is hugely important to Felixstowe and the local economy as not only will it provide a new eatery next to the beautiful seaside, attracting both local people and visitors, but it will also support economic growth and provide new employment opportunities as we hopefully begin to emerge from the impact of coronavirus.

Mark Hart, joint managing director at Barnes Construction, said: “Through the delivery of yet another exceptional scheme, Barnes is delighted to be playing its part in shaping the landscape of this popular seaside town. I have no doubt that when completed, this iconic café will prove to be a very successful attraction to both the people of Felixstowe and its many visitors.”

Through the delivery of yet another exceptional scheme, Barnes is delighted to be playing its part in shaping the landscape of this popular seaside town. I have no doubt that when completed, this iconic café will prove to be a very successful attraction to both the people of Felixstowe and its many visitors.

“The South Seafront has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years and East Suffolk Council has invested a lot in revitalising the area. We believe it is vital that we continue to build on this investment and create developments that benefits local businesses and people as well as visitors to the area.”

The development is part of a bigger project of ongoing investments in the South Seafront area, where the Martello Park has already delivered new homes, a play area and new car parking facilities. The council has also invested in the refurbishing the two public shelters on the South Seafront and the long-term maintenance of its historic Martello P, which forms the centrepiece of the park.

The £1.5 million project is funded by East Suffolk Council and the Coastal Communities Fund, which was launched in 2012 to promote sustainable economic growth and jobs in coastal areas. CCF awarded the Council £950,000 grant funding which enabled the project to go ahead. Additional funding of £30,000 was also awarded from the Coastal Revival Fund.

EAST SUFFOLK COUNCIL www.anglianwater.co.uk

Coun. Craig Rivett, Coun. Steve Gallant, Mark Hart, Coun. Steve Wiles

ADVE RTOR I AL I nt qu a l P ro

GOVERNMENT SURVEY FINDS ONLY A MINORITY OF UK ORGANISATIONS HAVE TESTED CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2021 reported that less than a quarter of organisations have tested their cyber awareness, despite evidence from the study suggesting the cyber risk level continues to be higher than ever under COVID-19. vulnerabilities within human awareness as an initial gateway into an organisations IT infrastructure and their attack methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Spear Phishing emails no longer have some of the identifying features that are associated with more generic phishing campaigns and developing staff confidence in identification and response to spear phishing is critical in building cyber resilience. The vast majority of management boards understand the importance of cyber security, with 77% of businesses saying it remains a high-priority, according the survey. Despite these figures, many organisations are not taking affirmative action to increase their cyber resilience. Testing employees is crucial in order for organisations to truly understand their knowledge and risk levels. For cyber awareness testing to be effective, organisations should look to segment knowledge and risk by individual, job function and location to implement more informed cyber security training initiatives, and an overall strategy.

n a series of cyber security surveys from the UK Government, it has been highlighted that cyber security breaches remain a serious threat to all businesses. Now, Intqual-pro, developers of the globally implemented Cyber Stars Initiative, look further into the latest released survey.

INTQUAL PRO www.intqual-pro.com

In the 2021 survey, 39% of businesses reported experiencing a cyber breach or attack in the last 12 months. While this figure is lower in comparison to the 2020 survey, many businesses are struggling to implement effective cyber security measures during the ongoing pandemic. A key finding is the methods used by cyber criminals to successfully breach the businesses. The most common is spear phishing, reported by a staggering 83% of businesses as social engineering techniques continue to be the dominant attack method. These findings are not surprising, said Intqualpro, who noted that malicious actors rely on

Significant changes to the way we work over the past year further highlights why cyber awareness testing and informed training is more important than ever. As the UK emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, we can expect to see a “blended” working environment, which will bring more challenges for organisations from cyber risks including bring your own device (BYOD) and smart network-connect devices in the workplace. To counter cyber risks and help organisations to make their employees their greatest cyber security defence, Intqual-pro launched Cyber Stars 365 in early 2020. The platform, part of their Cyber Stars solutions, provides 24/7, 365-day cyber security insight into a business and was developed following increased demand for metrics that highlight both knowledge and risk. More information about Cyber Stars 365 is available via www.intqual-pro.com/cyberstars-365. Contact enquiries@intqual-pro.com to arrange a pilot trial.

ADV ERTORI AL

HCR He w i t s on s

HCR HEWITSONS: A LAW FIRM WITH A PASSION FOR PEOPLE A new legal force with a passion for people is the result of a merger between two legal firms, both of which have a strong presence in the city.

ward-winning top regional lawyers Harrison Clark Rickerbys (HCR) and long-established and respected Hewitsons have merged, forming HCR Hewitsons locally. The merger completed at the end of May, resulting in a firm of approximately 780 people and £65m turnover. The merger creates a powerful combination of strengths to benefit clients who are accustomed to in-depth expertise from both firms. Inger Anson, who heads the Cambridge office, said: “This merger is an exciting next step in HCR’s mission to offer the market something different and in Hewitsons we have a partner which shares our ethos and passion for people. “This merger has created a dynamic new team able to offer a genuine breadth and depth of expertise to our clients and opportunities for our staff.” Colin Jones, former managing partner of Hewitsons, said: “The merger is great news for our staff and clients alike. Hewitsons had an absolute focus on our clients and a strong commitment to our people and HCR shares our core values. The firm’s size and breadth of specialisms means each client receives the focus it requires.” Reflecting on the past year, he added: “This merger will increase career opportunities for staff, provide us with a platform which covers the breadth of the UK and enable our clients to benefit from the full range of legal specialisms provided by the combined full-service legal advice and strong regional network. “All of our staff have joined the newly-merged business and, importantly, there has been no

change in client service. Our clients’ point of contact will remain the same, but the depth of expertise and experience we can offer has just become even greater.” Harrison Clark Rickerbys (trading as HCR Hewitsons in Cambridge, Milton Keynes and Northampton) has staff and partners based at offices in Birmingham, Cambridge, Cardiff, Cheltenham, Hereford, London, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Hereford, Thames Valley, Worcester and the Wye Valley, providing a complete spectrum of legal services to both business and private clients regionally and nationwide.

HCR HEWITSONS www.hewitsons.com

The firm has global reach via its network of independent law firms, LawExchange International. The combined Cambridge teams will move into new premises in the coming months.

This merger has created a dynamic new team able to offer a genuine breadth and depth of expertise to our clients and opportunities for our staff. 37

NE WS

Suf fol k Co u nt y Co u nc i l

A NEW ELECTRIC TAXI-BUS SERVICE LAUNCHES IN EAST SUFFOLK Suffolk County Council launches Katch, a new sustainable, electric taxi-bus service in the East of the county. Katch starts on Monday 17 May 2021 and will run as a trial for 12 months. The service will be available seven days a week from: 6.30am to 10.30pm on Monday to Saturday 9am to 7pm on Sunday All journeys must be booked in advance via the Katch App or telephone by calling 01728 55 44 55. The cost of a return journey is £7 and a single journey is £4. If successful and is regularly used by commuters and rail passengers, Suffolk County Council is keen to facilitate further schemes across the county. Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council:

atch provides a travel solution for local residents and visitors in Wickham Market and Framlingham, as well as for those who need to meet their rail connections at Wickham Market train station in Campsea Ashe.

SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL

With support from East Suffolk Council, Framlingham Town Council, Community Rail Network, East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership, Greater Anglia and CarsSmart, Katch delivers on the commitment Suffolk councils have made to grow the region’s passenger transport in a sustainable way. It also plays a part in cutting carbon to help reach the Government’s ambition of zero emissions by 2050 and Suffolk County Council’s own target of being carbon neutral by 2030. The Rail Network Development Fund from the Department of Transport provided a grant for the vehicles electric charging points at the train station at Campsea Ashe.

“Suffolk County Council is delighted to be able to offer the new sustainable, electric taxi-bus service in the East of the county. The service will provide a travel solution for local residents and visitors in Wickham Market and Framlingham as well as for those who need to meet their train connections at Wickham Market train station in Campsea Ashe. “It is also hoped the service will encourage more people to consider using public transport rather than relying on the car. “Following a successful trial, there is an opportunity for this type of flexible and green alternative travel to be considered across other communities in Suffolk.” Councillor Steve Gallant, Chair of the East Suffolk Community Partnership Board: “East Suffolk Council is really pleased to be able to support this new service which provides a flexible and accessible solution to the travel needs of local people and visitors alike. Not only does Katch support our environmental vision by offering a sustainable travel option, but it also provides a vital connection for many people who may not be able to get around easily otherwise.” For further information about Katch, please visit www.katchalift.com

FREE PARKING

Cambridge Park & Ride Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Open seven days a week

For more information on fares, timetables and other details, please visit www.cambridgeparkandride.info *Parking is free for up to 18 hours. Charges apply for longer stays.

Why Choose Modern Office? Your Office, Your Home, Your Future Choosing the right office furniture for your company is exciting and fun but it can also be a daunting exercise for any size business. Modern Office offers many solutions to meet the requirements of your dream office layout. We offer a number of services, helping you to create the perfect space for your office, where employees can thrive. We start by looking carefully at the overall picture, taking into account not only the design and creative needs of your organisation, but all the finer details too. Style and appearance, colour scheme, fabric and finish are all fundamental, but these days it is also imperative that your office furniture meets a detailed array of ergonomic and safety requirements. With over a quarter of a century of experience in this field, Modern Office is the complete solution to all your business furnishing needs. Whether you are looking for stylish office chairs, practical office storage or an exquisite conference table, we are sure to have something for everyone.

0191 478 8349 • info@modern-office.co.uk • modern-office.co.uk

MODERN OFFICE

East Anglia in Business 10

Articles inside

Sustainability 10

Training & Development 16

Ecommerce and technology 12

Foreword

Environment 06