ScottishPower Renewables has awarded a key contract for its East Anglia TWO offshore wind farm to Taylor Woodrow, marking a significant milestone for the £4 billion renewable energy project.

The contract involves onshore works at the substation in Burstall, near Bramford, Ipswich. Taylor Woodrow will undertake highway improvements, landscaping, and screening efforts at the site, which was initially built in 2020. The project is expected to support approximately 80 jobs during construction.

This latest announcement comes as part of ScottishPower Renewables’ ongoing supply chain commitments, following the success of its Allocation Round 6 auction in September.

Ross Ovens, Managing Director of Offshore at ScottishPower Renewables, expressed his confidence in the collaboration. “Taylor Woodrow has an outstanding reputation and successful track record of delivering vital infrastructure projects like this,” he said. “It’s fantastic to welcome them on board and have them join our East Anglia supply chain family to support our onshore substation works.

“Our East Anglia TWO wind farm won’t just produce enough clean, green energy to power nearly one million homes. It will also support thousands of jobs during construction and create many permanent skilled jobs when it comes into operation – all of which means a further boost for the local economy.”

Taylor Woodrow’s Managing Director, Phil Skegg, highlighted the importance of the partnership. “Being part of the ScottishPower Renewables supply chain family is a great reward for our own team and builds on the successful work being done with other partners to provide vital infrastructure for the UK.

“As a business, it is excellent to be partnering with an organisation with such vision, and I know our people are excited to be part of what will be a prestigious development.”

ScottishPower recently announced that the 64 turbines for the East Anglia TWO wind farm will feature blades manufactured in Hull, further showcasing the project's commitment to boosting UK supply chains.

The onshore substation works are set to begin in 2025, with the wind farm scheduled to become operational in 2028, delivering clean energy and long-term economic benefits to the region.

Rev Clive Mobbs has joined Sizewell C as its new chaplain, bringing spiritual support to the team constructing the nuclear power station on Suffolk’s coast. Starting his role on October 28, Rev Mobbs aims to be a steady presence for the growing workforce during both the project's construction and its eventual operation.

This new role is part of a partnership between the Church of England in Suffolk and Sizewell C. Rev Mobbs is only the third salaried chaplain at a UK power station, following in the footsteps of Rev Ewen Huffman, the first chaplain at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

A Multi-Faceted Role

Rev Mobbs described his work as varied, ranging from offering one-to-one spiritual support to celebrating project milestones and holidays. “I want to be a constant and steady force on the site,” he said. “People here will experience all the highs and lows of life, and I’ll be here to support them through it all.”

Drawing inspiration from other chaplaincies in Suffolk, he is collaborating with colleagues, including the chaplain at the University of Suffolk, to adapt strategies for Sizewell’s unique setting.

Bringing a Wealth of Experience

Born and raised in East Suffolk, Rev Mobbs has had a diverse career spanning agriculture, education, and youth services. Before his ordination, he worked with a national adult education charity and retired last year as Participation Manager at Suffolk County Council, where he promoted opportunities for young people.

With an estimated 1,500 apprentices working at Sizewell C, he sees his role as particularly relevant. “Many young people will be working away from home for the first time. It’s a chance to help them navigate challenges and celebrate their achievements,” he said.

Learning from Experience

Rev Mobbs has sought advice from Rev Ewen Huffman, whose tenure at Hinkley Point C began just before the pandemic. Rev Huffman emphasized the importance of supporting workers’ spiritual needs alongside physical and mental health.

“It’s wonderful that Sizewell C is bringing in a chaplain early in the project,” Rev Huffman said. “We’ve learned a lot at Hinkley, and I hope our experiences can help inform Clive’s journey.”

A Chaplain for Everyone

Rev Mobbs is committed to supporting people of all faiths and none. “My role is to be there for everyone, regardless of their beliefs,” he explained. He also plans to collaborate with local parishes and faith communities across Suffolk to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Building a Supportive Culture

The Archdeacon of Suffolk, Ven Rich Henderson, highlighted the vital role of chaplains in various sectors, from hospitals to agriculture. He expressed confidence in Rev Mobbs' ability to support Sizewell C’s workforce.

Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director at Sizewell C, welcomed Rev Mobbs to the team. “Clive’s spiritual support is a fantastic addition to the resources we already provide on-site. In a short time, he’s made a meaningful impact, including leading our Remembrance Day service,” she said.

As construction progresses, Rev Mobbs looks forward to becoming, in his words, “a mate for the journey” for those working on this monumental project.

Little Saxham, near Bury St Edmunds – CLAAS UK Limited, a leading provider of farm machinery, has been highly commended by Ofsted for its apprenticeship training in land-based engineering. Following its first full inspection in September, the apprenticeship program was rated ‘good’ in four areas, with an ‘outstanding’ mark for apprentice behaviour and attitudes.

Launched in 2022, CLAAS’s apprenticeship program aims to address the demand for skilled land-based engineering technicians. Ofsted praised the program’s focus on developing technical skills for machinery maintenance and repair, noting that apprentices train with industry-experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment. According to Ofsted’s report, apprentices are gaining the essential skills needed to service equipment like tractors and combine harvesters and can immediately apply their learning.

“Apprentices develop the high-level technical skills they need to service and repair machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters,” the report stated. It highlighted CLAAS’s small group sessions and individualized coaching, which foster effective learning.

The report also recognized CLAAS’s partnerships with employers within its dealership network, ensuring that training meets industry needs. Apprentices are making substantial progress, attend classes regularly, and are highly motivated to master new skills. Their program also strengthens essential English and mathematical skills, further preparing them for careers in the field.

Inspectors also lauded CLAAS’s structured approach to teaching, which includes exposing apprentices to various career paths within land-based engineering, from tractor and forager work to combine harvester specialization.

Ofsted recommended a few improvements, encouraging CLAAS to help apprentices document and reflect on their learning and to raise awareness of unique challenges within the farming sector, such as mental health and isolation. The report also suggested further training for CLAAS managers and trainers to better support apprentices with undisclosed special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

At the time of inspection, CLAAS UK’s apprenticeship program enrolled 40 apprentices.

In an inspiring initiative aimed at amplifying youth voices in East Suffolk, students from Alde Valley Academy have joined the Sizewell C Youth Council to provide critical insights for the nuclear power project. Ranging from Years 7 to 11, the students will meet regularly with Sizewell C’s joint managing director, Julia Pyke, along with other project leaders, to discuss local needs, aspirations, and updates on the project’s progress. This youth council provides a unique opportunity for young people to share their perspectives on a major infrastructure project that will affect their community for years to come.

Julia Pyke, Sizewell C’s joint managing director, underscored the importance of including youth voices in the decision-making process, noting that feedback for large infrastructure projects is often skewed towards older demographics. “We’re really keen to keep talking to young people as we develop Sizewell C,” she stated, highlighting the project’s commitment to fostering a generationally inclusive approach.

The students recently had the chance to meet with the project team and experience a tour of Wild Aldhurst, Sizewell C’s designated nature reserve. This immersive visit provided the students with a close look at the project's environmental commitments alongside its infrastructural goals.

Rosie, a Year 11 student and youth council member, voiced her enthusiasm: “I think it’s really important to give young people a voice.” The engagement of these students signifies a meaningful step for Sizewell C, which is expected to bring thousands of jobs, apprenticeships, and training opportunities to the East Suffolk area.

Dan Mayhew, director of community and partnerships at Kingfisher Schools Trust, commended the collaboration, saying, “The collaboration between the school council and the Sizewell C senior team gives young people a unique opportunity to have their views heard and to have an input into the project.”

As Sizewell C moves forward, the insights provided by these young students will play a valuable role in shaping the project to better align with the future they envision for East Suffolk. This engagement sets a positive precedent for youth-involved planning in local infrastructure projects, making them true stakeholders in their community's development.

Greene King has officially opened its new state-of-the-art distribution centre at Suffolk Park, Bury St Edmunds, continuing its long-standing relationship with the town. The centre has been named "St Edmunds" in honor of St Edmund the Martyr, reflecting the brewer’s deep-rooted heritage in the area.

First announced in 2022, the decision to build a new facility was driven by Greene King’s continued growth and the need for a larger, more modern distribution centre. The St Edmunds Distribution Centre, located near the A14, covers 160,000 square feet, almost twice the size of its previous warehouse facility on Cullum Road. This expansion offers more than double the storage capacity, providing Greene King with room to grow and better serve its customers’ evolving demands.

The business park location was developed by Jaynic, and the new facility is a key part of Greene King’s future plans. According to the company, careful consideration is being given to the future use of the former distribution centre.

This latest development comes on the heels of Greene King’s recent submission of a planning application to West Suffolk Council for a £40 million new brewery, also in Bury St Edmunds. The project, part of the company’s ongoing investment in its hometown, aims to continue the brewer’s legacy in Bury, where it has operated since 1799.

Matt Starbuck, managing director of brewing and brands at Greene King, said: “We’re thrilled to announce that the St Edmunds Distribution Centre is now officially open and fully operational. This marks two years of hard work and dedication from our team, and we’d like to thank everyone who contributed to bringing this project to life."

“This multi-million-pound investment underscores our commitment to Bury St Edmunds, where Greene King is proud to be a major Suffolk business with deep ties to the community. The new centre will strengthen our logistics network, enabling us to meet customer needs in a rapidly changing market, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”

With the St Edmunds Distribution Centre now up and running, Greene King is poised to support its expanding operations and future growth, while continuing to contribute to the local economy and celebrate its rich heritage.

Renowned chef and restaurateur Marco Pierre White has launched an eagerly anticipated autumn menu at his Steakhouse Bar and Grill, located in Felixstowe's Hotel Coco. The restaurant, which opened its doors this summer alongside the Queen’s Head Pub, is set to offer a rotating menu every quarter, featuring seasonal dishes crafted under the direct guidance of White.

The autumn menu, which exemplifies White’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients, includes an array of enticing starters and mains. Among the "Seasonal Specials" starters are the rich and savory Balmoral Game Pie, the creamy Baked Camembert, a velvety Butternut Squash Velouté, and the classic Moules Marinière. These are followed by a selection of mains designed to showcase the depth of autumnal flavors, including Roast Cod with Lentils & Pancetta, Pan Fried Venison, and Wheeler’s Fish Pie—a nod to the classic British comfort food with a gourmet twist.

General manager Andrew Vales expressed his enthusiasm about the new menu, describing it as one of their best seasonal offerings to date. “It’s always exciting to launch a new seasonal menu, and this one is right up there as being one of the best yet,” Vales said. He emphasized the authenticity of the dishes, noting that the menu is "100 percent Marco Pierre White." White’s personal involvement in the creation of the menu is evident, as he collaborates closely with the restaurant’s executive head chef, Jason Everett, to perfect each dish. “He spends days with our executive head chef, Jason Everett, going through dish ideas and cooking them to see if they work, so it’s as close as anyone will get to having your meal cooked by the great man himself,” Vales added.

The menu also features the "1961 Prix Fixe" option, named after the year of White's birth. This special offering includes a choice of starters like Beetroot & Goat’s Cheese Salad, Classic Moules Marinière, and Butternut Squash Velouté, followed by mains such as Butcher’s Steak, Pea & Shallot Mini Ravioli, and Roasted Pork Loin Steak—all for the exceptional price of £19.61. This deal is designed to offer customers a taste of White’s culinary expertise at an accessible price point, making it a popular choice for lunch dates and casual dinners.

In addition to the seasonal dishes, the restaurant continues to serve a selection of its classic steaks and signature dishes, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The combination of traditional British fare with a modern, gourmet twist has already made the Steakhouse Bar and Grill a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

With its prime location on Orwell Road in Felixstowe and the allure of dining on dishes personally crafted by one of the UK’s most famous chefs, the Steakhouse Bar and Grill at Hotel Coco is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in Suffolk. As the seasons change, patrons can look forward to more innovative and delicious menus that reflect the best of what each season has to offer, all under the masterful guidance of Marco Pierre White.

The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bolstering the UK's offshore wind sector. The Manufacturing Facility Support Programme (MFSP), which launched this week, offers £2 million in funding to support UK businesses in building or expanding manufacturing facilities critical to the offshore wind industry.

The MFSP is designed to unlock significant investments in UK manufacturing, enhancing the nation’s capacity to produce key components, equipment, and systems required by the rapidly growing offshore wind sector. With the Stage 1 application window open until Friday, September 20, the programme seeks to catalyse early-stage investment by providing matched funding of up to £500,000. This funding will help accelerate and de-risk pre-investment development activities that are essential to securing capital for new or expanded facilities.

Facilities that align with the priority areas and UK manufacturing opportunities outlined in the Offshore Wind Industrial Growth Plan—commissioned by the Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC), RenewableUK, The Crown Estate, and Crown Estate Scotland—will be eligible for funding.

Iain Sinclair, Executive Director at Global Energy Group and Non-Executive Director for OWGP, highlighted the programme’s importance. “This new programme will provide highly-focused support to innovative UK-based manufacturing companies with the necessary resources to develop new or additional production capacity geared towards providing locally-produced equipment and systems,” Sinclair said.

He emphasized that developing these resources is crucial to accelerating the deployment of offshore wind in the UK, helping the nation achieve its ambitious target of 60GW by 2030. “The MFSP programme further advances our mission to improve productivity, increase business competitiveness, boost innovation, and support a globally competitive offshore wind supply chain in the UK,” Sinclair added.

The MFSP funding will be awarded through a competitive grant process. Successful proposals will need to demonstrate a robust long-term business plan, including detailed investment strategies, market share forecasts, revenue projections, profitability, employment growth, and export potential.

This initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in offshore wind manufacturing, ensuring the sector’s continued growth and sustainability.

Sizewell C, a key nuclear energy project in the UK, has secured a major logistics facility by leasing Orwell Logistics Park, located on the A14 just outside Ipswich. This new facility, covering nearly 1.1 million square feet across 60 acres, will house the project's Freight Management Facility, which is essential for managing and coordinating deliveries to the construction site.

The strategic location of Orwell Logistics Park, situated between Ipswich and the Port of Felixstowe, provides convenient access to one of the UK’s largest deepwater ports, which handles nearly 50% of the country’s containerized trade. The lease agreement includes two already completed units, along with plans to pre-let the remaining units and open storage areas.

This development marks a significant milestone for Sizewell C as it gears up for peak construction over the next five years. Nigel Cann, joint managing director of Sizewell C, emphasized that the park will play a crucial role in managing logistics while minimizing disruption to local communities.

Gareth Purcell, managing partner at BGO, the owner of the site, welcomed Sizewell C to the logistics park, expressing excitement about supporting the supply chain for such an important national energy project.