Member News Subjects

New Business Doctor brings growth support for West & North Yorkshire Chamber members

Business Doctors is delighted to announce the appointment of Alastair Stewart as its new Business Doctor for North Yorkshire. With over four decades of experience in sales, business development, and strategic leadership, Alastair will bring deep expertise and a fresh, hands‑on approach to supporting SMEs across the region. A proven track record, now channelled into…

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Resilient City Cruises York passes 200,000 passengers following 2025 growth

Passenger growth, product innovation and partnerships drive strong 2025 for City Cruises York despite a challenging year. Following a successful start to 2025, including being crowned ‘Best of York’ at the Visit York Tourism Awards, City Cruises York has reported a 14.5% year-on-year increase in passengers. The operator welcomed over 200,000 passengers for only the…

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Charities and social enterprise groups offered funding and academic expertise to support community projects in Yorkshire and the Humber 

Community Research Grants 2026 offer expanded opportunities from York St John University research institutes Now into its fifth year, York St John University’s impactful Community Research Grant (CRG) programme is now open for 2026. Led by the University’s Institute for Social Justice, the programme invites Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSEs) to propose issues that…

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North Yorkshire development unveils latest interior design trends in new show home

A recently launched show home at Barratt Homes’ Russet Park development in Copmanthorpe is bringing the latest interior design inspiration to local homebuyers. The show home was expertly designed and styled by award-winning interior designers, Edward Thomas Interiors, meaning homebuyers can be assured they will be up to date with the latest design trends. Barratt Homes is…

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New independent report highlights the huge potential of York’s ambitious plan for growth

An ambitious strategy outlining plans for growth, with innovation, culture and heritage at its heart –could bring about £12.1bn of combined social, economic and environmental impact to the city, according to independent analysis. In November 2025, Executive members approved York’s prospectus which is designed to attract additional investment into economic and housing growth, tackle inequalities,…

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Two fly‑tippers fined over £2,000 as council enforces ‘Crime – Not to Care’

Two residents found to have illegally dumped waste, have been prosecuted by City of York Council. On Thursday 22 January, York Magistrates Court ordered them to pay a total £2,190 in fines, costs, and surcharges, as the council continues to deliver its ‘Crime – Not to Care’ campaign and protect neighbourhoods from environmental harm. Jake…

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York residents urged to maximise their income as part of York Talk Money fortnight

York residents are being urged to find out whether they could be eligible for extra income as part of next week’s York Talk Money fortnight (2-15 February). Run by City of York Council and partners across the city, including Citizens Advice, Peasholme Charity, Age UK, York Energy Advice and OCAY, the regular event aims to…

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Council’s pledge to tackle tenants’ priorities unlocks new improvements

New approaches to tackling what tenants have told us are their priorities have been agreed today (Tuesday 27 January), which unlocks funding. The Council’s housing tenants have told us that tackling anti-social behaviour, preventing damp and mould, and improving communal areas are among their top priorities. To support them and improve the way we address…

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Exciting plans for Glen Gardens play area

Children from Tang Hall Primary School and Heworth Primary School have played a key role in shaping the future of Glen Gardens. As part of City of York Council’s major investment in parks and green spaces, pupils were invited to review three different design options for the play area. Their feedback has helped determine the…

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LNER London King’s Cross first class lounge to undergo refurbishment

As part of our ongoing commitment to improve station facilities along the route, the First Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station will undergo a major transformation to provide an even more comfortable and welcoming space. While we make these exciting changes, the lounge will unfortunately be closed from Monday 26 January until Spring 2026….

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Unfair trading results in 10 month’s prison sentence

Following customers’ complaints and a Trading Standards’ investigation, York Crown Court has sentenced a man to 10 month’s imprisonment for unfair trading offences. Liam Wilkinson, aged 25 of Eastbourne Road, Darlington paid a total £8,095 compensation for his victims, ahead of appearing in court on 30 October 2025 when he pleaded guilty to two offences….

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Have your say in the York Parents’ Survey

Parents and carers in York are being invited to have their say in a citywide survey over the next few weeks. Organised by Raise York – the local network of people, places and online support which helps children, young people and families from pregnancy to adulthood –it’s hoped that feedback from the survey will shape…

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North Yorkshire homebuilder prepared to launch new development

Five-star housebuilder, Barratt Homes, prepares to launch its Knights Gate development in Huntington. Knights Gate, located off New Lane, will offer a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes. Presenting an exciting opportunity to first-time and prospective buyers, homes start from just £240,000 and buyers can start reserving their homes now. The launch will also see…

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Five-star homebuilder invites public to special preview event for upcoming North Yorkshire development

David Wilson Homes is inviting prospective buyers to a special preview event for its upcoming Castra Park development at LNER Community Stadium on Thursday 22nd January. Located in the sought-after village of Huntington, Castra Park will offer a collection of energy-efficient two, three and four-bedroom homes. The development is the ideal setting for families and young professionals with…

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Warm Spaces cinema returns to York

York St John University’s Cinema & Social Justice team offer free film screenings for people trying to stay warm this winter York St John University is pleased to invite the local community to free Warm Spaces film screenings this winter. The University’s Cinema & Social Justice project is screening all-ages favourites Zootropolis 2 and Happy Feet at…

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North Yorkshire homebuilder sponsors creative arts day with Whitby charity

Barratt and David Wilson Homes sponsors creative arts day for Whitby charity, WHISH. Barratt and David Wilson Homes sponsored a creative arts day at St. Hilda’s Hub with Whitby charity, WHISH. Nearby Barratt Homes’ Abbey View and David Wilson Homes’ Chaloners Green developments, the charity is a hub for the community, supporting many individuals with hidden impairments. The day…

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Council plans for the future amid toughest financial outlook since launch of austerity

Rising inflation, decades of underfunding, and growing demand for services have created major financial strains for local authorities across the country – including City of York Council. To address these pressures, the Council has published its budget proposals for 2026/27. York’s ageing population, with increasingly complex health needs, are increasing demand for social care. Significant…

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York St John becomes the first university in the UK to use revolutionary maternity simulator that actually gives birth

Midwifery students can use Mama Anne to prepare for the most challenging scenarios in labour and birth. York St John University has become the first UK higher education institution to integrate the Mama Anne birthing simulator into their new midwifery programme. Mama Anne is the most cutting-edge maternity simulator currently available and offers tangible, physical…

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Car parking charge consultation extended and expanded

A review of car parking charges in Bishopthorpe Road, Micklegate and The Groves has been expanded to include Heworth. It follows receipt of a challenge from local traders and residents in the East Parade area about last year’s price increase. The entire consultation including all four areas will now run until 27 February 2026.  Arup – a global firm of designers, engineers, and consultants, who…

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2026 Garden Waste Subscription Scheme open

Households eligible to subscribe to the 2026 Garden Waste Subscription Scheme can now sign up ahead of the new season in March. The easiest way to sign up for the scheme is to complete an online form at www.york.gov.uk/GardenWaste Support is available for anyone who is not able to apply this way by calling 01904…

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Fast-track your move with five-star North Yorkshire home developer

David Wilson Homes is inviting house hunters to its Part Exchange events at Chaloners Green and Grey Towers Village on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January. The event is designed to help existing homeowners move into new, energy-efficient homes easily with the Part Exchange scheme. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the developments and discuss available homes and offers with the team.  David Wilson Homes’ Part Exchange scheme helps buyers to…

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Another Partner joins Andrew Jackson’s Commercial & IP Department

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has welcomed James Peel as a partner into the commercial and intellectual property (IP) department, strengthening further its offering in this area across the region and beyond. James specialises in commercial contracts and data protection, advising clients on practical, tailored contractual solutions to support their day-to-day operations and longer-term objectives. James’s…

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Poetry in (Loco)motion – LNER Marks Landmark Year for Rail

As 2025 draws to a close, LNER is reflecting on a remarkable year for the rail industry by launching a specially commissioned poem to celebrate the bicentenary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. We Will Carry You weaves together themes of connection, community and journeys. Written by Darlington poet Lizzie Lovejoy, the poem was commissioned…

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North Yorkshire homebuilder offers part exchange to help buyers move

Leading homebuilder David Wilson Homes is encouraging prospective buyers to explore available homes at its Bramble Wood development in Wheldrake. With a range of three and four bedroom homes available, these homes are adaptable for a range of lifestyles. Starting from £340,000, the development is less than eight miles from York town centre, making it the…

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York St John now the highest rated university in the region for sustainability

A record 91 place rise in the People & Planet sustainability and ethical performance rankings Sustainability work right across York St John University is behind a record result in People & Planet’s University League 2025. This is the only comprehensive and independent league table of UK universities ranked by environmental and ethical performance. York St…

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Car parking charges right to challenge consultation

An independent review of car parking charges has begun (today, Wednesday 17 December 2025) covering Bishopthorpe Road, Micklegate, and The Groves in York. Traders and residents in these areas have initiated a challenge to parking charges through The Right to Challenge Parking Policies Statutory Guidance under the Traffic Management Act 2004. This follows the authority’s decision to increase charges…

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Candidates announced for Heworth Ward by-election

The list of candidates standing for the Heworth by-election has been published at https://www.york.gov.uk/HeworthWardByElection. The election will take place on Thursday 15 January 2026 with polling hours between 7am and 10pm, and with the count taking place at the close of poll at The Centre @ Burnholme. Residents who are not currently registered to vote are encouraged…

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Andrew Jackson Solicitors advises on acquisition of historic ocean fish group by Fortuna Ltd

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP announces that it has advised Falkland Islands-based fishing business Fortuna Ltd on its acquisition of Ocean Fish Group, a long-established fishing and processing business whose heritage dates back to 1740. Ocean Fish is one of Cornwall’s oldest fishing and seafood processing groups, supplying UK and European wholesale, retail and, more recently,…

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Castle Howard and Brew York create bespoke beer to celebrate Oz Christmas extravaganza

Castle Howard and Brew York have collaborated on a unique beer for the festive season celebrating the stately home’s Wizard of Oz Christmas experience. ‘No Place Like Home’, a Hazy Session IPA with a citrus character and floral notes, is brewed at Brew York’s Osbaldwick location and stocked exclusively at Castle Howard for the duration…

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York firm builds skills for the future thanks to support from City of York Council

A York conservation firm training up the next generation of expert craftspeople has thanked City of York Council for the business support that has helped it thrive. Pinnacle Conservation, established by managing director Adam Hickey in 2019, now employs 58 staff, including nine apprentices, who are all paid the Real Living Wage as part of…

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Poverty Proofing© the School Day pilot for York pupils

Partners across the city are working to reduce the barriers faced by York  pupils from low-income families in school, with a pilot scheme this autumn. Poverty Proofing© the School Day involves making changes to school policies and practices to reduce the barriers faced by pupils, including addressing issues like financial constraints, stigma, and lack of access…

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Council thanks businesses and residents for their support for local young people leaving care

City of York Council is thanking businesses and residents across the city who have already contributed Christmas gifts for children in need and young care leavers in York. The festive season can be a difficult one for many children and young people, particularly those who have had a challenging start in life and who live…

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York reaffirms its commitment to improving adult social care

City of York Council has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the best possible adult social care services following its first ever assessment by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC assessed how York delivers its responsibilities under The Care Act (2014) in June 2025. It looked at nine areas of adult social care to see…

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Leading homebuilder brings quality homes to desirable East Yorkshire location

Barratt Homes is inviting prospective buyers to join the team for a special preview event for its Knights Gate development at LNER Community Stadium on Thursday 4th December. The Knights Gate development, located off New Lane in Huntington, will offer a selection of one to four bedroom homes, perfectly suited to a range of buyers, including first time…

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Leading housebuilder invests in the North East

Leading housebuilder Barratt and David Wilson Homes North East, based in Gateshead, has built 606 homes in the region during the past year and contributed £118.6 million to the UK’s economic output. The achievements are highlighted in a new report which measures the housebuilder’s social and economic contribution to the region over the past financial…

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Bladder cancer may be caused by the body’s response to a common virus, new research suggests

Bladder cancer might be caused by our cell’s response to a common virus which infects nearly everyone in childhood, according to new research led by scientists at the University of York. BK virus establishes a persistent and lifelong infection by hiding in the body, most commonly in the kidney. The dormant infection can reactivate during…

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Boost your team’s skills with funded bootcamps

The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group is offering two practical Skills Bootcamps designed to help employers upskill their workforce and strengthen organisational capability. Both programmes are delivered face-to-face at Wakefield College, City Centre Campus, and run over 12 weeks. Skills Bootcamp in Digital Skills (IT Office Skills) Start Date: Friday, 9 January 2026 Schedule: Fridays, 9am–3pm This hands-on programme equips…

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Festive fun: Middlesbrough homebuilder to host fundraising community Christmas event

Leading homebuilder David Wilson Homes is set to host a community Christmas event at its Grey Towers Village development in Nunthorpe. David Wilson Homes is inviting residents of Nunthorpe to visit the Grey Towers Village development on the 4th December from 5pm, promising a full festive evening out for the family for under £10. All…

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Castle Howard’s Christmas events to star in Channel 4 documentary series

Castle Howard’s Christmas events will feature in a new Channel 4 documentary series, ‘A Very British Christmas’. The programme is a three-part series following designers Adrian Lillie and Charlotte Lloyd Webber from CLW Event Design as they create festive experiences for iconic British stately homes, with one episode dedicated to Castle Howard’s extravaganza. The Castle…

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Discover the benefits of three-storey living at North Yorkshire development

Barratt Homes is showcasing its spacious three-storey homes at its Harclay Park development in Boroughbridge, designed for modern living. These three-storey homes feature adaptable layouts giving homeowners the freedom to create distinct spaces for everyday living, working and relaxing. Located on Stump Cross, Harclay Park features a range of three-storey, three and four bedroom homes, suitable for…

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Further growth for Andrew Jackson’s family law practice

Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has welcomed solicitor Holly Ackroyd to its family team, marking further growth for the firm’s highly regarded family law practice. Holly will assist on financial and children’s issues arising from relationship breakdown. In addition to managing her own matters, she will also work alongside other members of the…

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Council proposes update to Garden Waste Subscription Scheme for 2026

City of York Council is set to consider an update to its garden waste subscription service at the Executive meeting on 2 December 2025. The proposal includes an increase in the annual subscription fee from £49 to £52 for the 2026 season, in line with North Yorkshire Council and to help cover rising service costs. The garden…

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York set to boost NHS Health Checks for better health

City of York Council has announced plans to recommission its NHS Health Checks programme, reaffirming its commitment to improving health and wellbeing and reducing health inequalities across the city. The NHS Health Check is a free, nationally recognised programme designed to identify early signs of cardiovascular and metabolic conditions among residents aged 40–74 who do…

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Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) – Information for Employers – Please give your views (2 minute survey)

What is Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)? In a nutshell, and in the context of providing employers with higher skills training packages for employees, LLE consists of Higher Education modules from high value technical courses delivered as standalone training opportunities for employees or individuals. Scheduled to start in 2027, LLE training packages will be fully funded…

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Andrew Jackson welcomes another solicitor to its contentious probate practice

Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP is pleased to announce that solicitor Ben Naylor has joined its contentious probate practice, strengthening the existing team and client offering across the region. Ben brings extensive experience and receives instructions in relation to claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, probate actions, and…

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Teesside homebuilder unveils new show home

 David Wilson Homes has unveiled its brand-new show home at the popular Highgrove at Wynyard Park development in Stockton-on-Tees. David Wilson Homes invited prospective buyers to attend Highgrove at Wynyard Park, located on Attenborough Way in Wynyard, for a weekend-long show home launch event. The event showcased the Archford, a modern three-bedroom, semi-detached home featuring a…

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All homes sold at North Yorkshire development

Following an increase in demand, David Wilson Homes’ St Johns View development in Cayton has now sold out. The housebuilder had welcomed a range of home buyers at the 96-home development on Church Lane and the remaining properties on the final phase quickly sold. Having offered a selection of two, three and four bedroom properties,…

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York St John University academic calls for emotionally intelligent dementia care at UK Dementia Congress

Focusing on the emotional experience must be the foundation to person-led dementia care, according to experts from the Institute for Health and Care Improvement at York St John University. The future of quality dementia care relies on understanding and emotional awareness that the experience of dementia heightens feelings and lessens thinking, according to Professor David…

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