Siemens Mobility Receives Special Recognition Award for Impact in East Yorkshire 

Siemens Mobility has been honoured with a Special Recognition Award at the 2025 East Riding of Yorkshire Council Chairman’s Awards, in recognition of its significant contribution to the local economy and community. 

The award highlights the transformative effect of Siemens Mobility’s investment in Goole, where its £240 million Rail Village development is helping to create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and support community initiatives. 

The Goole Rail Village includes a state-of-the-art train manufacturing facility, with additional components, logistics, innovation, and office functions. A bogie assembly and service centre is also under development on the site. Once fully operational, the site is expected to create up to 1,000 new jobs in the region and generate around 1,700 supply chain opportunities. 

Finbarr Dowling, Head of UK Localisation at Siemens Mobility, said: 

“We’re delighted to have been recognised by the Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The council has played a key role in supporting our investment in Goole and helping to realise the benefits for the local economy and community.” 

“In Goole, as elsewhere in the UK, we are committed to making a positive impact and contributing to the long-term success of the region.” 

Mark Speed, General Manager at Siemens Mobility’s Goole site, added: 

“This award is a tribute to our entire team, who are passionate about supporting local causes. While our investment focuses on jobs and skills, we are equally committed to working alongside schools, charities and community groups to make a lasting difference.” 

Siemens Mobility’s Goole facility is currently assembling new Piccadilly line trains for Transport for London, which are expected to enter passenger service by the end of 2025. The site is also set to manufacture future main line trains, including new battery bi-mode Desiro Verve trains, which the company estimates could help save £3.5 billion and 12 million tonnes of CO₂ over the next 35 years. 

As part of its commitment to skills development and inclusion, Siemens Mobility runs an apprenticeship programme at Goole, which welcomed over 20 apprentices this year. The company also partners with campaigns such as Women into Manufacturing and Engineering, and DFN Project SEARCH, which supports young adults with learning disabilities and autism spectrum conditions. 

Siemens Mobility also supports local schools through the Primary Engineer programme, which has reached nearly 30 schools, more than 2,000 pupils, and 60 teachers in the region over the past five years. 

In addition to its economic contributions, Siemens Mobility employees in Goole have raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities and volunteered hundreds of hours. In 2024 alone, the Goole Charity Cricket Day raised £24,000 for local organisations including the East Riding Imagination Library, Two Rivers Community Pantry, Friends of Oakhill, Goole Amateur Boxing Club, and Goole GoFar. 

Environmental projects have also been a key focus. In partnership with Humber Forest and The Conservation Volunteers, Siemens Mobility planted 840 trees and hedging plants in Howden. The company also donated £150,000 to improve access and facilities at Oakhill Nature Reserve, near its Goole site. 

To find out more about how Siemens Mobility is delivering long-term positive impacts across the UK, read the company’s 2024 Social Value Report here: www.mobility.siemens.com/uk/en/transform-mobility/sustainability/social-value.html    

Community equipment provider finds space to grow as Evolve’s first occupier

The UK’s leading provider of community equipment loan services has become the first occupier of a new development within the fast-growing Melton West business park in East Yorkshire.

Medequip has begun operating a new depot in the first unit to be completed at the £10m Evolve @ Melton West development – the latest phase of growth at Melton West.

Evolve aims to address a shortage of high-quality, modern commercial spaces for growing businesses looking to invest within the region.  

The development has provided Medequip with a high-quality facility, built to the latest standards and with strong sustainability credentials, at the heart of the region’s road network, to enable the business to expand into East Yorkshire.

The business, which has 27 depots across the country, and services 48 local authority areas in partnership with each council’s social care services and the NHS, is expanding into the region for the first time after being awarded a contract to deliver the Community Equipment Loan Service for the East Riding of Yorkshire and Hull.

The new service will help to enhance the quality of life and independence for tens of thousands of children, young people and adults with care and support needs in the region, including those with temporary, permanent or life-limiting conditions.

Medequip has more than 30 years of experience supplying, maintaining, collecting, cleaning and recycling community equipment. The company is bringing a team of existing colleagues to Evolve to deliver the new contract and will also be creating a number of new positions at the new depot.

Developed by leading Yorkshire property development and investment business Wykeland Group, Evolve comprises 85,000 sq ft of prime commercial space in one of the region’s most sought-after business locations.

Part of the wider Melton West site, west of Hull, the development boasts excellent transport links via the A63, and features two larger units of 37,000 sq ft and 22,900 sq ft, with Medequip occupying the latter, and a terrace of five smaller units of 5,000 sq ft.

Following Medequip beginning operations, the other units are now approaching completion and will soon be available for occupation.

The latest letting at Melton West adds to the continuing growth of the business park, with Medequip joining the likes of blue chip companies Amazon, Heron Foods and shower maker Kohler Mira on site.

Wykeland Development Director Jonathan Stubbs said: “We knew there was a gap in the region for high-quality, modern commercial space for growing businesses and that has been validated by the levels of interest we have received in Evolve.

“We’re delighted to welcome Medequip as the first occupier and to have provided a modern, fit-for-purpose space which enables their expansion into East Yorkshire.

“We’ve worked closely with the business to adapt the construction plan on site and bring forward the completion of Medequip’s unit to ensure they were moved in ahead of their contract start date.

“With Medequip now operational, Evolve has started to deliver on our vision for this speculative development. We look forward to welcoming more businesses to Evolve in the near future.”

Medequip General Manager Steve Smith said: “We selected the Evolve site for our new East Riding and Hull Community Equipment Loan Service because it provides a modern, high-quality facility with excellent transport links – essential for the efficient delivery of community equipment.

“Its strong sustainability credentials, including rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, also align with our carbon reduction commitments.”

As well as offering attractive, modern workplaces, and excellent transport links, Evolve boasts outstanding sustainability credentials. All units at the development will be EPC A-rated, with rooftop solar panels, green living walls and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The development of Evolve was supported by grant funding from East Riding of Yorkshire Council, to help boost economic growth in the region.

Austin Lillico, Infrastructure and External Funding Project Manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The Invest East Yorkshire Team at East Riding of Yorkshire Council offers a range of support to help businesses develop and grow, from start-ups to large scale investors.   

“The economic benefits derived from providing grant funding to enable developments such as Evolve to come to fruition are of real value, especially as we now see the first occupiers moving into their new premises.”

Integra Buildings honoured with King’s Award for championing sustainability in construction

East Yorkshire-based modular construction business Integra Buildings has received royal recognition for its pioneering approach to sustainability.

Integra was named as the only modular construction business and one of fewer than a dozen Yorkshire companies to receive the prestigious The King’s Award for Enterprise.

Regarded as the UK’s most prestigious business awards, winners of The King’s Awards are recognised by His Majesty The King as among the country’s best companies.

Integra was honoured in the Sustainable Development category of The King’s Award for Enterprise, reflecting its total commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing and operations.

Integra, which is based in Paull, East Yorkshire, received the Sustainable Development award alongside just 26 other companies nationwide, with only one other based in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

The King’s Awards celebrate outstanding achievement, ingenuity and success. The Sustainable Development award honours commercially successful products, services and management that benefit the environment, society and the economy.

Founded 28 years ago and now employing 160 people, Integra is the only modular construction company named as a 2025 The King’s Award recipient, underlining its position as a pioneer in offsite construction.

Integra works with high-profile private and public sector clients, providing bespoke modular solutions in sectors ranging from sport and education to health and defence.

Integra Buildings CEO Gary Parker said: “Receiving The King’s Award for Enterprise is a tremendous honour for our business and all of our team.

“This award reflects and rewards the total commitment we have across our business to excellence in project performance and delivery. It also recognises our commitment to adopting sustainable policies and practices in everything we do. 

“Modular building has so many advantages over traditional methods of construction; one of those being that it is inherently more sustainable.

“We passionately believe that the future of construction is modular and that the companies embracing sustainability will be the most successful for many years to come.” 

The King’s Award commended Integra for “challenging the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable construction through bespoke design and offsite manufacturing”.

Since moving to its current site in Paull, east of Hull, in 2018, Integra has doubled both its turnover and workforce. In 2023 the business celebrated its best-ever year, with turnover topping £50m for the first time, with pre-tax profits of £6.6m.

Whether it’s through the buildings it delivers, the development of its team or making responsible decisions across its supply chain, sustainability is rooted in Integra’s values.

Integra has set a target to be net zero by 2038. The company has cut gas consumption by 22 per cent since 2022, with plans to remove it altogether by 2028, and has installed more than 1,000 rooftop solar panels on office and production facilities to generate 200,000KW of clean electricity capacity.

An impressive waste reduction programme has seen materials sent to landfill cut from 70 per cent to 1.2 per cent in just three years, and Integra plans to introduce a rainwater capture system to become self-sufficient for water, with the exception of drinking water.

In addition, almost all (96 per cent) of Integra’s essential raw materials are sustainably sourced, with 84 per cent of the company’s suppliers located within a 15-mile radius of its East Yorkshire site.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise has recognised over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965. Winners hold the award for five years.

Recipients pass a robust assessment process, judged by experts from industry, academia, the voluntary sector and senior officials in Whitehall. On that basis, The King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients are recommended by the Prime Minister and approved by His Majesty The King. 

Ferriby Meadows rises rapidly as Beal buyers home in on £40m development

The rapid progress of Ferriby Meadows, a landmark £40m development in North Ferriby, is further cementing East Yorkshire’s reputation as a thriving region for growth and investment.

This prestigious project by family-owned housebuilder Beal Homes is set to deliver 115 high-quality homes in one of the most sought-after locations in East Yorkshire. Demand is soaring, with 17 properties already reserved off-plan in just four months, highlighting the region’s continued expansion and appeal.

Ross Clarkson, Sales and Marketing Director at Beal Homes, said: “We’re excited to see Ferriby Meadows progressing rapidly and experiencing such a high level of demand. North Ferriby is one of East Yorkshire’s most desirable locations, and we’re proud to offer people the opportunity to own a brand-new home in this fantastic community.”

Beyond housing, Ferriby Meadows is contributing to regional economic growth, with Beal Homes employing 160 staff in East Yorkshire and maintaining a trusted network of local suppliers and contractors. The company’s commitment to quality and customer service is reinforced by its multiple awards, including the prestigious five-star Home Builders Federation (HBF) rating.

Just seven miles from Hull, North Ferriby boasts excellent transport links to Leeds, York, and beyond, making it a prime choice for homebuyers who seek a village setting with easy access to urban amenities. Ferriby Meadows enhances the area’s reputation as a growing residential and economic hub, supporting the wider development of East Yorkshire.

As East Yorkshire continues to grow and attract investment, Ferriby Meadows exemplifies the region’s momentum, meeting the rising demand for high-quality housing in a well-connected and vibrant community.

For more information about Ferriby Meadows, go to www.beal-homes.co.uk/ferriby-meadows.

Invest East Yorkshire: £1 billion of Investment since 2020 

According to recent reports from Northern Powerhouse, East Riding of Yorkshire has demonstrated exceptional economic growth, boasting an average annual growth rate of 3.5%—the highest of any individual council area in Yorkshire. This impressive growth rate underscores the region’s strong economic potential and reinforces its position as a prime destination for business investment. 

The Role of the Inward Investment Team 

At Invest East Yorkshire, our Inward Investment Team plays a vital role in attracting, supporting, and facilitating both UK and Foreign Direct Investments in the region. As a dedicated resource for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations, the team provides expert guidance and practical support to help companies navigate the investment process effectively. 

Our key responsibilities include: 

• Promoting East Yorkshire as a prime investment location, showcasing its strategic advantages, infrastructure, and business ecosystem. 

• Helping businesses find suitable sites and premises that meet their specific operational requirements. 

• Assisting with infrastructure development to ensure businesses have the right conditions to thrive. 

• Providing access to grants, funding opportunities, and financial incentives to encourage business growth, innovation, and sustainability. 

• Liaising with key council departments, such as planning, skills and recruitment, business support services, and highways, to streamline the investment process. 

• By offering tailored, hands-on support, the team ensures that businesses can access the resources they need to grow, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy. 

Success Stories: Major Investments in East Yorkshire 

Siemens Mobility: A £200 Million Manufacturing Facility in Goole 

One of the most significant investments secured by the Inward Investment Team is Siemens Mobility’s £200 million train manufacturing facility in Goole. Since 2016, the team has worked closely with Siemens to build a strong business case for Goole, providing support in site selection, planning, and workforce development.  

Metsä Tissue: Strengthening Sustainable Manufacturing in the Humber 

Another major success is Metsä Tissue’s proposed state-of-the-art tissue paper mill in Goole, which will be the largest of its kind in the UK. Situated within the Humber Freeport, the facility will create over 400 direct jobs and thousands more in the supply chain, reinforcing East Yorkshire’s role as a centre for sustainable manufacturing. 

The Inward Investment team has worked closely with Metsä Tissue throughout the investment process. Support has included identifying an appropriate site, linking the company with local supply chains, and providing planning guidance. The project aligns with regional and national sustainability goals by reducing the UK’s reliance on imported tissue products and fostering a greener supply chain. 

The Inward Investment Team continues to work with businesses of all sizes, helping them navigate the investment landscape and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed. 

A Future Built on Innovation and Investment 

The team is currently working alongside Equinor to support the development of Hydrogen to Humber (H2H) Saltend, a 600-megawatt low-carbon hydrogen production plant at Saltend Chemicals Park. This facility will convert natural gas into hydrogen while capturing and storing the resulting CO₂ emissions offshore, achieving a CO₂ capture efficiency of at least 95%. The hydrogen produced will supply local industries, helping to decarbonise power generation and chemical manufacturing processes. 

In addition, Pensana is developing a pioneering rare earth processing facility at Saltend Chemicals Park in the Humber region. This £195 million project aims to establish an independent and sustainable supply chain for rare earth metals, which are critical to the energy transition. The facility is expected to produce approximately 12,500 tonnes of rare earth products annually, including 4,500 tonnes of neodymium and praseodymium oxide—essential components for manufacturing permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, offshore wind turbines, and other clean energy technologies. 

Councillor Anne Handley, East Riding of Yorkshire Council Leader and portfolio holder for Economic Growth said, “It’s fantastic to see the East Riding Inward Investment team’s hard work in spurring economic growth and job creation, come to fruition. By providing strategic support, unlocking key development sites, and fostering long-term business relationships, the team ensures that East Yorkshire remains a prime destination for inward investment. I’m proud that the East Riding maintains a welcoming business environment, and East Riding of Yorkshire Council will continue to facilitate businesses looking to enter the region.” 

Siemens Mobility Powers Ahead with Solar Energy at Goole Rail Village

Siemens Mobility has taken a major step towards its net zero ambitions at Goole Rail Village, switching on 1,700 solar panels that will significantly reduce the site’s carbon footprint. The panels, now fully operational, generate up to 1MW of clean energy, equivalent to the power needed for more than 150 homes.

This investment is part of Siemens Mobility’s £240 million commitment to Goole, reinforcing the town’s position as a leading centre for rail innovation and manufacturing in the UK. The Goole Rail Village, designed as a low-carbon site, is home to manufacturing, components, logistics, innovation, and office facilities, making it a key contributor to the region’s economic growth.

The solar panels are just one element of a broader sustainability strategy at Goole Rail Village. Siemens Mobility has also invested £2 million in air source heat pumps to heat production facilities, cutting carbon emissions by 980 tonnes annually—an 88% reduction. Additionally, the company is electrifying its vehicle fleet, rolling out up to 70 EV chargers, and encouraging sustainable travel through initiatives like the Goole + Howden Hopper bus service.

Finbarr Dowling, Siemens Mobility’s Director of Localisation, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability:

“Our vision from the outset was for the Goole Rail Village to be net zero in operations by 2030. With green energy generation, clean heating, and sustainable transport policies, we’re ensuring every aspect of the site minimizes its carbon impact. This is not just about Siemens Mobility—it’s about supporting the wider rail industry in its journey towards decarbonisation.”

Beyond its environmental impact, Siemens Mobility’s Goole Rail Village is a major boost to the local economy, bringing up to 1,000 new jobs and creating 1,700 supply chain opportunities. The site is already assembling the new Piccadilly line trains for Transport for London (TfL), set to enter service later this year. The company also plans to build all future mainline trains for the UK at Goole, including battery bi-mode trains, which could save Britain’s railways £3.5 billion and 12 million tonnes of CO2 over 35 years.

David Harris, Siemens Mobility’s Construction Project Manager, highlighted the long-term vision:

“We’ve integrated sustainability into every phase of this project, from construction to operation. Now that the facility is up and running, we’re seeing the full benefits of investing in green infrastructure from day one.”

With the addition of a £40 million Bogie Assembly and Service Centre, Siemens Mobility’s total investment in Goole is set to reach £240 million, further cementing the town’s role as a key hub for rail manufacturing and innovation.

As Siemens Mobility continues its journey towards net zero, Goole Rail Village stands as a shining example of sustainable rail technology and economic investment. This project not only strengthens East Yorkshire’s status as a leader in rail innovation but also aligns with the UK’s broader goals for a low-carbon transport future.

For more information on Siemens Mobility’s Goole Rail Village, visit www.siemens.co.uk/goole.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council supports ‘Small Business Saturday’

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is encouraging residents to support local businesses on Small Business Saturday, 7 December.

Small Business Saturday is a national campaign launched in 2013 and held on the first Saturday of December. It encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support their local businesses.

One small business participating in the initiative is Alec W G Hall Limited. The specialist outfitters on the Driffield high street have received support from Invest East Yorkshire’s business support services, towards updating traditional shop front signage and reinstating the front canopy.

Mark Edwards, from the business, said:

• Saturday, 30th November, and Sunday, 1st December
• Saturday, 7th December, and Sunday, 8th December
• Saturday, 14th December and Sunday, 15th December
• Saturday, 21st December, and Sunday, 22nd December

Pay and display machines will be clearly marked to let people know there is no charge.

Councillor Anne Handley, East Riding of Yorkshire council leader, said, “This is a crucial time for small businesses in our communities, and we’re proud to support them during this festive period. I encourage all residents to support their local shops in the run up to Christmas.”

The Small Business Saturday campaign can be followed via #SmallBizSatUK @SmallBizSatUK

Construction Summit offers invaluable knowledge and support to businesses

Construction businesses from across East Yorkshire and Hull can learn about a range of people related topics to maximise your key assets, people, at a free event taking place next month. 

Invest East Yorkshire and Invest Hull are working together to stage the 2024 Construction Summit at the MKM Stadium in Hull on Wednesday 20 November, from 8.30am to 1.30pm. It is being delivered in collaboration with The Business Growth and Skills Hub, the Construction Industry Training Board, Humber Training Group and Hobson & Porter.

Building on the successful June event, the Summit brings together construction businesses of all sizes, from small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to some of the sector’s biggest players. The theme is ‘People and Skills’ so the focus will be on how businesses can support their employees to get the very best out of them. It will cover topics such as recruitment and succession planning, as well as offering an overview of local apprenticeship and training provision. Delegates will also gain an insight into the latest industry trends and developments, and an increased understanding of the local supply chain and how to navigate the market.  

A series of themed sessions taking place throughout the day will equip those who attend with practical tools and strategies to manage employee well-being and provide them with invaluable networking opportunities with key regional and national organisations, including ESH, Houlton, and Hobson & Porter. 

Joe Booth, Business Development Director at Hobson & Porter, said: “This is a must-attend event for any local construction businesses that are looking to grow and develop their workforce at a time when the construction industry is facing a continued skills and labour shortage.  It will provide a unique opportunity to network and collaborate with some of the biggest construction companies in the region, including national businesses with a presence in Hull and East Yorkshire.” 

“It will benefit businesses of all sizes, including small businesses looking for local supply chain opportunities and medium to larger businesses that want to develop their workforce and take advantage of the opportunities which will be forthcoming in the sector” 

A limited number of places are available so construction businesses are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out. To secure your place, visit: https://erycevents.evolutive.co.uk/event/details/985746/Hull-and-East-Riding-Construction-Summit-People-and-Skills 

Invest East Yorkshire and Invest Hull are the business support functions of East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull City Council, respectively. Both teams are available to work with business owners in our area to help them identify projects that will help their businesses grow and evolve, and can provide eligible businesses with access to a range of funding and practical support, funded by the UK Government.

Bid writing experts to host FREE workshops for East Yorkshire-based businesses

Expert advice on how local businesses can write successful bids for work is on offer at two forthcoming workshops organised by Invest East Yorkshire and led by a team of highly regarded bid-writing specialists. 

Kate Skillman and Nigel Denison of Gimlet Associates, who have spent the last 16 years working together to help businesses of all sizes navigate and win competitive tenders, will give those taking part in the workshops an insight into the bidding process, equipping them with the knowledge and skills that they need to succeed. 

Kate explained: “We understand that for small and medium-sized businesses the bid process can feel overwhelming. Through our workshops, we guide them through the essential steps, from bid preparation and selection to question analysis and deconstruction. Participants often find this last section especially valuable as it provides a useful strategy to make response writing easier, improve response content and score higher marks. 

“We aim to demystify the bid process and show businesses that, with proper preparation and a strategic approach, they can compete for tenders and stand a much better chance of winning the contracts. We’ve had the pleasure of seeing several businesses we’ve worked with go on to win important contracts after attending our workshops.” 

Nigel added: “Our workshops offer new perspectives and practical solutions for businesses that haven’t enjoyed the success that they desire. We equip them with the tools to decide whether a tender is right for their business, and how to efficiently allocate their resources. Ultimately, our workshops empower small businesses to produce high-quality bids, without the need for a specialised team.” 

Those who have taken part in the workshops run by Kate and Nigel previously have given them a resounding thumbs-up.  

Vicki Hone of Hornsea Nursery said: “I would highly recommend this to anyone dipping their toe into the world of tendering. I will now look at the tender portals recommended on the course to identify opportunities to apply for funding.” 

Holly Ansell of Brough-based StudentPad Ltd agreed, adding: “I’ll certainly go back to the current tender I’m doing and review/improve it with the new information I’ve learned today.” 

The first workshop, entitled Winning More Work Through Tenders, will take place on 10 October, from 9.30am to 12 noon at RaisE Business Centre on Tom Pudding Way in Goole. This will be followed by a Practical Bid Writing Skills workshop on 12 November, from 10am to 11.15am, which will take place online. 

To book your place or for more information about these and other FREE workshops hosted by Invest East Yorkshire’s Business Support Services team, visit: investeastyorkshire.co.uk/events/

Part of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Invest East Yorkshire’s Business Support Services team offers a comprehensive package of support to businesses, from events and workshops to one-to-one advice and help identifying sources of funding. It also manages The Supply Chain Network Supplier Directory, which was created for businesses to showcase their products and services, and a Resource Portal, where businesses can find a wide range of free information, tools and templates. The team is also able to signpost businesses to other support providers and draw upon the expertise of colleagues in other departments across the council, such as planning, licensing and environmental health. 

Businesses are welcome to contact the team by emailing business.support@eastriding.gov.uk or telephoning 01482 391622 to find out more about the range of free events and other forms of support on offer. 

Enhanced Wi-Fi Services Now Available at all East Riding Business Centres

We’re thrilled to announce the recent upgrade of Wi-Fi services across five of our business centres located in Bridlington, Brough, Driffield, Carlisle House Goole and Market Weighton.

This brings them in line with the rest of our business centres: ergo, Hessle, RaisE, Goole and Beverley Enterprise Centre, thus providing a uniform and consistent Wi-Fi experience.  

As part of our Smart County Programme, this investment in Wi-Fi infrastructure demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing an environment where businesses can operate efficiently and effectively and our ongoing effort to enhance the facilities and services we offer.

Booking a meeting room at any of our business centres now comes with the assurance of top-tier Wi-Fi performance, making them the ideal choice for your meeting and event needs.

To enjoy 24-hour connectivity with unlimited data, users simply connect to the “EastRidingFreeWiFi” network and provide their email addresses. 

For more information on Business Centres in the East Riding and how to book meeting rooms, please visit – https://investeastyorkshire.co.uk/business-centres/