Instinctive pull on reflection (3

BRILLIANT: An artist’s impression of the new premises and, right, Simon Boyd Reid all about it as new base gets the green light

“Absolutely brilliant news” – MD’s delight as new manufacturing base is given green light “This is absolutely brilliant news for REIDsteel, the local economy and GB plc.” The reaction of Simon Boyd, Managing Director of John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Limited, after planning permission was secured for a major redevelopment of its site in Dorset. The company – known as REIDsteel – received the green light from BCP Council for a state-of-the-art manufacturing complex, new offices and staff facilities in Christchurch. The redevelopment of the company’s Reid Street site, and adjacent land formerly occupied by Peeks Party Store, will deliver a 6.4acre manufacturing base and boost the company’s capability. Simon said: “It is a milestone in the long history of the company, which has gained a worldwide reputation for high quality British engineering, design and manufacturing. “It will allow us to significantly increase productivity, create more highly-skilled employment and apprenticeships, and boost the local economy while cutting our carbon footprint. “In addition, the new facility will enhance our ability within both the domestic and export markets. “Our thanks go to BCP Council and their planning team for their support throughout the process. “They have worked with our planning consultants and architects to achieve a wellbalanced development which will contribute significantly to the local community. “All those involved with the planning process had the vision required to understand the importance of delivering a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on a key site in Christchurch for the long-term growth of our company. “Furthermore, they recognised the positive effect it will have on our local community which I also thank for their support.” REIDsteel’s portfolio includes aircraft hangars, bridges, sports stadia, and industrial and commercial buildings across the UK, Europe and the world, including cladding and glazing. Its Special Projects include hurricane and earthquake resistant structures, car parks, defence structures, water treatment plants, the power sector, infrastructure, specialist bridges and bespoke designs. Founded in 1919, the company has exported to more than 140 countries to date. Simon added: “Our people are our company, where every one of our 130 employees is a valued team member. “Together we are One Team. “This is a very welcome decision and is essential to our drive for continuous improvement, and not just for manufacturing but for our people who are at the core of everything we do. “It is a landmark moment as we look forward to an exciting future.” REIDsteel has gained full planning permission for the multi-million-poundredevelopment, which will include a production yard, staff parking accessed from Mill Road, environmental improvements and landscaping. It will also include rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging points. Multiple manufacturing processes will be brought into a single, automated production line with cuttingedge technology from concept to delivery under one roof. REIDsteel is now working through the next steps of the scheme. It will continue with current operations on the site throughout the redevelopment process.

Christina is appointed first BID boss

Christchurch Business Improvement District (BID) has announced the appointment of its first BID Manager. Christina Pengelly brings a wealth of town centre experience to the role as well as a strong business acumen. She was previously the Operations Manager at Poole BID and Secretary to the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce. Christina, who will support key improvement projects for Christchurch, has also formerly worked as a Project Manager in several banking roles. Her appointment follows the result of the Christchurch BID ballot in October. A total of 78 per cent of levy payers voting in the ballot said ‘yes’ to the BID. Christina will now play a key role in projects including: A number of new and ongoing measures to improve the appearance of the town centre New town centre events and street entertainment Marketing & promotion of the town Support to businesses in Christchurch Christina said: “I am extremely pleased to be appointed Christchurch BID Manager. “Christchurch has so much to offer and I am excited to highlight its potential in terms of independent shops, national brands, hospitality and services. “We want Christchurch businesses to thrive in challenging retail environments and deliver the best of Christchurch to residents and visitors.” Lucy Filer, Chair of the BID, added: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Christina as the next milestone in the BID process. “The Board of Directors are all focused on supporting Christina in the delivery of

n Christina Pengelly a range of improvements for Christchurch which we are confident will take the town centre area to the next level.” A BID is funded by businesses voting to pay a small proportion of their business rateable value on a package of improvements. The money is ring-fenced for use only in the BID area. The Christchurch BID area of approximately 270 businesses is expected to generate about £130,000 per year,. This is expected to be supplemented by contributions from local businesses outside the town centre, as well as other funding sources. It’s proposed that the BID will initially operate for five years, meaning that approximately £650,000 of improvements will be generated for the town.

No cause for complacency after U-turn

Health and social care employers have been warned by Wimborne lawyers to stay on top of Covid regulations despite a government rethink over mandatory vaccinations. Ellis Jones Solicitors – with an office in East Street – says that policies, contracts and risk assessments may need to be updated if the controversial policy is scrapped. Health Secretary Sajid Javid has launched a two-week consultation over proposals to drop the requirement after an outcry from employers and workers. The mandatory vaccine for all health and social care staff – including NHS workers and those in a Care Quality Commission (CQC) setting – was due to come into force on April 1. Kate Brooks, partner and head of employment/HR services at Ellis Jones Solicitors, said: “This rethink will be welcomed by many in health and social care although it does not mean they are out of the fire just yet. “Even if the U-turn on mandatory vaccinations goes ahead, employers will still be expected to create a safe

n Kate Brooks place of work for employees, and staff in health and social care settings will still be urged to be vaccinated and will need to consider carefully how to communicate and ongoing requirements to employees.” The u-turn is expected to apply to care homes – where mandatory vaccinations have been in force since last autumn – as well as for NHS and social care. Kate, who has been recognised for her expertise in The Legal 500 and The Times Top 200 Law Firms guides, added: “Care home owners can be forgiven for feeling particularly aggrieved that the change is only being considered now after many employees have already left the sector. “They will need to consider updating policies and contracts on the use of vaccines along with those in healthcare, social care and other CQC settings to reflect the changing position in law. “They are advised to monitor developments and continue to communicate with staff who are impacted by changes to the mandatory vaccination rules.” According to the Government, more than 127,000 NHS staff have come forward for a vaccine with 95% having had at least one dose since September of last year.