Freshers are Seven Times More Likely to Contract Meningococcal Disease Than Young Adults who don't go to University
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 22:57 EDT
First-year students face a risk of meningococcal disease around seven times higher than young people of a similar age who do not attend university, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data demonstrates. The increased risk is linked to close social contact, shared accommodation and exposure to new social groups. Meningitis B (MenB) remains the dominant strain of meningococcal disease affecting young people. It was responsible for 97% of invasive meningococcal cases in 15 to 24-year-olds (93 of 96 cases) in England during 2025 to 2026, according to UKHSA reports . To help improve awareness of the warning signs, the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity has developed a free symptom card and dispenser for use in schools, universities, workplaces, GP surgeries, libraries and community settings. Dr Steve Dayman, founder of the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity and the UK's Meningitis Movement, explains, "Meningitis and sepsis can strike quickly and symptoms can appear in any order. It is vital that parents and young people know what to look for. Symptoms can be hard to spot or may initially resemble flu or a hangover. "Early diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between life and death. I know of numerous cases where recognising symptoms early enabled people to receive life-saving treatment." Dr Dayman has spent more than 40 years driving meningitis vaccine development, research and awareness-raising. He introduced and promoted the diagnostic Tumbler Test to the public in 1991. He encourages students, parents, lecturers, teachers and employers to carry a symptom card. It could save a life. Young people are eligible for the NHS's time-limited two-dose MenB vaccination this autumn. Visit Book a MenB vaccination appointment - NHS to find out more. To support awareness campaigns, the charity is offering free symptom cards and dispensers to universities, schools, workplaces, GP surgeries and community organisations. To receive free symptom cards and dispensers, contact: info@spencerdaymanmeningitisresearch.org Digital posters, cards and leaflets covering meningitis and sepsis are available at: https://www.spencerdaymanmeningitisresearch.org/meningitis-explained/downloads/ ---- About meningitis and sepsis Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis, sepsis or both together. Recognising the symptoms of each can help people seek urgent medical attention sooner. MenB was the leading cause of invasive meningococcal disease across almost all age groups under 25, the latest Invasive Meningococcal Disease (IMD) government report shows. Vaccination is helping to reduce cases of meningococcal disease but does not protect against every type of meningitis or every cause of sepsis. Research shows that teenagers and adolescents are more likely to carry meningococcal bacteria and are therefore at increased risk of spreading the infection. Up to 1 in 4 teenagers carry meningitis-causing bacteria in the back of their throats, compared to 1 in 10 people in the general population. As well as being potentially fatal, meningitis can leave those infected with long-term health conditions, including hearing or vision loss, and difficulties with memory and movement. Key symptoms of meningitis and sepsis Symptoms can appear in any order and not everyone will experience every symptom. Seek urgent medical advice if meningitis or sepsis is suspected. Fever Severe headache Stiff neck Sensitivity to light Confusion Drowsiness Rash that does not fade under pressure Cold hands and feet Rapid breathing - Ends - Notes to editors: Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity Established in 2023, the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity builds on more than 40 years of work in meningitis research, awareness and advocacy. The charity funds innovative research into vaccines against meningitis-causing bacteria and Streptococcal infections associated with serious illnesses including bacterial meningitis and sepsis. The charity is led by Dr Steve Dayman, founder of the UK's Meningitis Movement, and is supported by a panel of medical experts. Dr Dayman has dedicated more than four decades to raising awareness of meningitis after losing his son, Spencer, to bacterial meningitis and sepsis at just 14 months, in 1982. After Spencer's death, Dr Dayman set up the Meningitis Research Appeal, the first charity to represent meningitis. Initially he was told by the meningitis scientific fraternity that he would not see a meningitis vaccine in his lifetime. There are now five vaccines in the UK national vaccination programme. He has been involved in many meningitis charities and research efforts over the past 40 years and received an MBE for services to healthcare in 2011 and an honorary doctorate from University of Bristol in 2014. The Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research Charity was established in his son's memory and aims to improve prevention and early diagnosis of these life-threatening conditions. The charity has already committed more than £500,000 to research programmes focused on vaccines, which will primarily be used to research at the Spencer Dayman Research Laboratories at the University of Bristol. These are destined to protect children, adolescents and vulnerable adults against meningitis and Streptococcal infections, as well as to establish a groundbreaking 'Sepsis Diagnosis in 5 Minutes' test. https://www.spencerdaymanmeningitisresearch.org Interviews with Dr Steve Dayman are available on request, at flexible times and short notice Notes: Research shows that teenagers and adolescents are more likely to carry meningococcal bacteria and are at increased risk of spreading the infection (source: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/meningococcal-carriage-and-infection-technical-background ) 313 confirmed MenB cases in England in 2024-25 (source: UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vaccination-crucial-as-meningitis-cases-increase ) Up to 1 in 4 teenagers are carrying meningitis-causing bacteria in the back of their throats, compared to 1 in 10 in the general population (source: https://vaccineknowledge.ox.ac.uk/meningococcal-disease#How-is-it-passed-on ) Sepsis affects an estimated 245,000 people in the UK each year and contributes to around 48,000 to 50,000 deaths annually (source: https://sepsistrust.org/about-sepsis/references-sources/ ) This year's NHS vaccination programme is available for teenagers aged 17 or 18 who are born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and young people aged 24 or under who are starting university or some types of residential further education for the first time. (source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/)
NATP Urges Senate Consideration of Bipartisan Taxpayer Assistance and Service Act
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 15:37 EDT
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is urging Senate leaders to move the Taxpayer Assistance and Service Act (S. 3931) forward for consideration by the full Senate following overwhelming bipartisan approval by the Senate Finance Committee. In a Sept. 15 letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, and Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., NATP thanked the senators for their bipartisan work on the legislation and asked them to work with Senate leadership to advance the bill. The Finance Committee approved the legislation 26-1 on July 30. "A 26-1 vote sends a clear message that better taxpayer service and reasonable standards for paid tax return preparers are not partisan goals," said Scott Artman, CPA, CGMA, CEO of NATP. "The committee has taken an important step. We hope the full Senate now has the opportunity to consider these reforms." The TAS Act includes more than 60 bipartisan tax administration reforms aimed at improving taxpayer service, modernizing IRS operations and strengthening taxpayer rights. NATP supports the legislation because many of the issues it addresses are ones tax professionals encounter while helping taxpayers navigate the federal tax system. Among its taxpayer service provisions, the legislation would expand online access to tax returns, notices and correspondence; allow certain responses to the IRS to be submitted electronically; provide more information about processing backlogs and telephone wait times; expand callback availability; and support greater electronic processing of taxpayer correspondence and paper-filed returns. The legislation also would establish federal suitability and education requirements for certain paid tax return preparers. Under the current proposal, the requirements generally would apply to paid preparers who are not CPAs, attorneys or enrolled agents in good standing and who do not qualify through a comparable state program. Required education would cover ethics, professional responsibility and tax law and would be capped at 18 hours annually. The legislation also would provide notice and an opportunity for a hearing when the Treasury Department seeks to suspend or revoke a preparer tax identification number. NATP supports reasonable education and accountability standards that encourage paid tax return preparers to remain current on tax law, ethics and professional responsibility while maintaining appropriate protections for tax professionals. The TAS Act has not become law, and its provisions could change as it moves through Congress. NATP is asking Senate Finance Committee leaders to continue working with Senate leadership to move the legislation forward. To further discuss the letter or NATP's stance on preparer regulation, please contact Nancy Kasten or Samantha Strong .
New Research: UK Businesses Losing Up to Four Days a Month to Manual Finance Admin
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 13:40 EDT
-Just one in ten businesses have highly automated banking and payment workflows- Despite years of investment in financial software and digital transformation, new research has revealed a significant automation gap within UK businesses, with just 10% reporting highly automated processes across most of their banking and payment workflows. The research, which surveyed 418 senior leaders at UK organisations employing 10-500 people across sectors including accounting, ERP and financial management, FinTech and B2B SaaS, found that technology has yet to eliminate significant amounts of manual finance admin and workarounds. Almost one in five (19%) still rely predominantly on manual processes to match bank transactions and payments against invoices, customers, cases or internal records, while 45% operate using a combination of manual and automated processes. These findings have been published in a report ' The Open Banking Data and Payments Automation Landscape ' as part of a UK research project commissioned by Finexer , an FCA-authorised Open Banking infrastructure platform built for mid-market B2B platforms. Further findings revealed that almost a quarter of UK finance leaders (24%) said their organisation can lose 20-29 hours every month to manual bank and payment administration. 15% said that their business can spend up to 39 hours a month - more than one full working week - manually collecting bank information, checking whether payments have arrived, matching payments to internal records or re-entering banking and payment data. Commenting on the findings, co-founder and CEO of Finexer , Ravi Ranjan, said, "Losing several days every month to checking payments, matching transactions and re-entering banking data shouldn't be considered a normal cost of doing business. Yet these findings suggest manual finance admin remains embedded in UK organisations. UK Businesses have invested in automating almost every part of their operations, and yet finance processes are still being held together by manual checks and workarounds. As businesses demand faster payments and real-time financial visibility, the infrastructure underneath their finance systems has to catch up." This research highlights the challenges facing UK businesses attempting to automate banking and payment workflows. Integrating banking data into existing finance systems can involve complex integrations, regulatory requirements and dealing with legacy infrastructure - this can leave finance teams reliant on manual processes to bridge gaps between systems. Open Banking provides an alternative by enabling financial platforms to connect banking data and account-to-account payments directly into the systems businesses already use. Ranjan concludes, "The problem isn't that the technology doesn't exist; it's that too many businesses are still connecting modern finance systems through processes that rely on people to fill the gaps. As expectations move towards real-time financial visibility, those gaps become increasingly difficult to justify. Automating the movement and reconciliation of financial data gives finance teams that time back to focus on work that actually requires their expertise." ENDS
SGS Awarded New Three-Year Tanzania PVoC Contract for the China Zone
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 12:07 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, announces the award of a new three-year pre-shipment verification of conformity (PVoC) contract supporting Tanzania's Bureau of Standards (TBS) and covering exports from the China Zone - Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mongolia and Macau. The article highlights SGS's commitment to the protection of public health, safety and the environment while supporting fair competition for local manufacturers. The new contract took effect from May 1, 2026, and reflects SGS's expertise in conformity assessment. Comprehensive product compliance assessment services, including laboratory testing, will continue to be provided under the new contract, which reflects SGS's specialized knowledge and experience in conformity assessment and international trade, as well as its ongoing commitment to Tanzanian trade facilitation. Reliable conformity assessment services at scale are key to the TBS's efforts to reduce the importation of substandard products from the China Zone as part of its goal of eliminating them in the long term. SGS's technical expertise and global network help facilitate compliant trade and promote the quality and safety of goods entering Tanzania. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the original article, ' New PVoC Contract for Tanzania's China Zone (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mongolia and Macau) ', for more information. For further information, contact: William Limbu PCA Contract Manager Tel: (+255) 755 003 240
SGS Explores New Saudi Arabia Conformity Requirements for Brazilian Poultry Exports
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 11:59 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, reports on the Saudi Food and Drug Authority's (SFDA) introduction of mandatory certificate of conformity (CoC) requirements for poultry and poultry products exported from Brazil to Saudi Arabia. An important destination for Brazilian poultry exports, Saudi Arabia is Brazil's third-largest export market, with imports increasing by 7.1% in 2025 compared with the previous year. The article focuses on new export requirements that became effective on April 1, 2026, and form part of the SFDA's food conformity assessment framework, introducing an additional compliance step for Brazilian poultry exporters and other supply chain stakeholders. The certification process must be incorporated into regular export procedures to support continued market access, with all applicable shipments required to undergo conformity assessment and obtain a CoC in accordance with relevant SFDA requirements. Also included in the article is a checklist for exporters and advice on navigating the applicable requirements to help stakeholders understand and prepare for the new conformity assessment process. SGS is an SFDA-approved Certification Body that supports companies throughout the certification process and issues CoCs in line with the applicable SFDA framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the original article, ' Saudi Arabia Introduces Mandatory Certificate of Conformity Requirements for Brazilian Poultry Exports ', to learn more. For further information, contact: Adriana Gomes Product Conformity Assessment Global Service Director Trade Facilitation Services Tel: (+44) 7813366757
SGS Helps Businesses Prepare for Expanded Conformity Assessments for Ivory Coast
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 11:51 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, highlights key changes to Ivory Coast's PCA CI 71 conformity assessment program, which expands the scope of applicable products and became mandatory on July 1, 2026. In a feature article, SGS reports that this mandatory conformity assessment now applies to 15 product families across existing, expanded and newly introduced product categories. The new requirements apply to products covered by Decrees No. 2016-1152 and No. 2020-389. Shipment dates on relevant transport documents, including a Bill of Lading, Air Waybill or road or rail transport document, determine whether the new requirements apply. Announced by Ivory Coast's Directorate General for Foreign Trade (DGCE), product categories included in the scope of PCA CI 71 have been expanded, with chemicals introduced as a new category and additional cosmetics, personal care and textile products brought within scope. The article includes a list of the fifteen product families now covered, as well as a list of 16 exempt product categories. A certificate of conformity (CoC) is a key document required to support customs clearance procedures in Ivory Coast for products within scope, and information on SGS PCA services for importers and exporters is also available in the article. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the original article, ' PCA CI 71 Expanded Scope and New Requirements for Imports into Ivory Coast ', to learn more. For further information, contact: SGS Cote d'Ivoire SA Tel: (+ 225) 27 2175 2233 / 27 2175 2255 / 27 2175 2240
SGS Reports on Preparing Solar Products for Egyptian Market Compliance
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 11:43 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, explores evolving regulatory requirements for solar products entering the Egyptian market. Conformity assessment and product verification are increasingly important as renewable energy markets expand. Ensuring solar products meet applicable quality and conformity requirements can support compliance, facilitate customs clearance and strengthen confidence across the supply chain. SGS's feature article focuses on the review of the scope of solar products following coordination with the relevant authority, in relation to the technical capabilities and accreditation coverage of approved inspection bodies. SGS is well-positioned to support this scope through accredited inspection capabilities across key Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Regulatory requirements in the country are expected to develop under the Egypt Program (COI/ILAC), following a similar conformity assessment approach to products currently covered under Ministerial Decrees No. 43/2026 and No. 991/2015. The article also outlines how product conformity inspection services can support compliance throughout the supply chain through activities such as quality inspections, quantity verification, labeling reviews and container loading supervision. SGS service solutions for Egyptian trade facilitation help reduce the risk of non-conformities, support regulatory compliance and provide greater confidence throughout the international supply chain. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the original article, ' Prepare Solar Product Exports for Egypt with Product Conformity Inspection Services ', to learn more. For further information, contact: Yaser Saber Manager Trade Facilitation Services Tel: (+20) 10000 53518
Adept Armor Introduces Two New Rifle Plates, Rebuilding Its Lineup Around Mission Roles
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 11:32 EDT
Emperor is now the lightest Level IV plate in its class, delivering full-coverage RF3 protection at 4.55 pounds, while Archon Mark 2 brings Adept Armor's new Quatroid ceramic to the high-threat, performance-value center of the range at 5.2 pounds and $588. Adept Armor , developer of next-generation armor materials and plates, has rebuilt its rifle-armor lineup around the way plates are actually chosen in the field: by balancing protection, weight, thickness, durability, equipment fit, and cost, rather than ranking every plate from good to better or best. The revamped range is led by two new plates that attack the weight problem from opposite ends of the price range. Emperor , the company's weight-focused flagship, delivers RF3-class (Level IV) protection in a 10-by-12-inch plate that weighs about 4.55 pounds and is 1.01 inches thick. It is the lightest 10-by-12-inch Level IV plate on the market. Archon Mark 2 sits at the high-threat, performance-value center of the range: about 5.2 pounds, 1 inch thick, and priced at $588. Emperor is built for users for whom every pound of carried armor justifies premium materials and premium cost. Archon Mark 2 targets the far larger group seeking a strong balance of advanced rifle protection, low weight, thin profile, and acquisition cost. "Body armor is not a ladder where the last rung is automatically the right answer for everyone," said Jake Ganor, Adept Armor founder and CEO. "A user who needs the lowest possible carried mass, a user optimizing cost and protection, and a user facing a different threat environment can rationally choose different plates." Emperor: RF3 Protection When Every Ounce Matters Armor imposes a cost every minute it is worn, whether or not the wearer ever takes a hit. Emperor was developed for applications where reducing that continuous burden is itself an operational requirement. A front-and-back pair of 10-by-12-inch Emperor plates runs roughly 9.1 pounds, placing RF3-class rifle protection in a weight range more commonly associated with lower-protection armor. The plate uses Adept Armor's titanium-modified boron-carbide ceramic system. Independent testing at Energetic Test Labs (ETL) in Phoenix recorded defeat of .30-06 M2 armor-piercing ammunition at 2,914 ft/s, with 22.83 mm of backface deformation, well below the 44 mm limit used by NIJ 0101.07. Emperor is priced at $1,480 per plate and is in production and shipping now. "You may never take a rifle hit, but you carry every ounce of armor for every minute you wear it," Ganor said. "Emperor is for the cases where 10 or 20 ounces is not an abstract specification; it changes endurance, mobility, heat load, or how much other equipment the user can carry." Archon Mark 2: The High-Threat Sweet Spot Archon Mark 2 takes a different approach. Rather than chase the lowest possible weight regardless of cost, it is engineered around the combination buyers actually live with: threat capability, mass, thickness, durability, and price. The second-generation plate weighs about 5.2 pounds in the 10-by-12-inch size, roughly half a pound lighter than the previous Archon, while holding a 1-inch profile. At $588, it sits well below four-figure ultralight armor while remaining remarkably light for its price and protective rating. The principal change is inside the plate. Archon Mark 2 swaps the previous ceramic architecture for Quatroid™, Adept Armor's new low-density quaternary armor ceramic, developed to capture the weight efficiency of premium armor ceramics at a far more practical cost. That makes Archon Mark 2 the plate Adept Armor expects to fit the broadest group of users seeking advanced rifle protection: light enough to ease the burden of a full armor load, thin enough to integrate cleanly with modern carriers, and priced for far wider adoption than an ultralight flagship. "Emperor answers the question, 'How light can we make serious armor-piercing rifle protection?' Archon answers the question, 'What should I actually buy for the strongest overall balance?'" Ganor said. "Those are different engineering problems, and they should produce different products." One Lineup, Clear Roles Emperor and Archon Mark 2 sit within a broader rifle-armor range organized around distinct protection problems rather than overlapping catalog positions: Thunder - the lightweight RF2 option and practical default when the mission does not demand a heavier threat envelope. Mantis Mark 2 - a ceramic-free, enhanced-threat architecture built on a fundamentally different approach to rifle and high-velocity fragmentation protection. Emperor - the lightest Level IV plate in its class, for users who place exceptional value on cutting carried mass. Archon Mark 2 - the 5.2-pound, $588 plate at the high-threat center of the range. Colossus - the maximum-duty endpoint for rifle threats beyond the reach of conventional RF3 armor. Engineering Around the User, Not the Catalog The updated lineup reflects Adept Armor's broader materials approach. Rather than force one strike-face technology across every protection level, the company uses materially different architectures where they deliver a measurable advantage, from advanced ceramics to titanium and UHMWPE-based systems. "Most of this industry starts with a plate specification and works backward from whatever materials are readily available," Ganor said. "We would rather start a generation earlier, at the material, and build the plate that best fits the actual job." That materials-led approach extends beyond rifle armor. Adept Armor is developing BulletFoam™ as a flexible ballistic component platform for integration into padding, packs, carriers, and other protective equipment, with selected direct applications and OEM programs under development. BulletFoam will be covered in a separate announcement. Detailed technical announcements covering Quatroid and Mantis Mark 2 will also follow separately. Current specifications, availability, and product comparisons are published at ade.pt . For more information on Adept Armor, visit its website or follow along on Instagram or YouTube .
SGS Highlights How Exporters Can Prepare for Algeria's Import Requirements
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 11:31 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, reports on exporting to Algeria and navigating the country's conformity assessment requirements. In a feature article, SGS focuses on Algeria's regulatory framework, which includes Law No. 09-03 of 25 February 2009, relating to consumer protection and fraud prevention, and Executive Decree No. 05-467 of 10 December 2005, which establishes the conditions and procedures for conformity controls at the country's borders. For businesses seeking to place products on the Algerian market, understanding regulatory requirements is essential to identify potential compliance issues at an early stage, prepare the necessary documentation and help reduce the risk of avoidable shipment delays. The article highlights documentation requirements that may apply to certain transactions, including situations where independent evidence of product conformity is requested by importers, financial institutions or other parties involved in the transaction. This includes a Certificat de Contrôle de Qualité des Marchandises (CoC), issued in the exporting country, which supports the import and customs clearance process. A CoC provides independent evidence that goods have been assessed against Algerian regulatory, technical and quality requirements. SGS services supporting the import process are also detailed in the article. Working with a trusted independent partner helps importers and exporters navigate customs processes more smoothly, supporting timely market access and regulatory compliance. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the original article, ' Export to Algeria with Confidence Through Pre-Export Conformity Assessment ', for more information. For further information, contact: Adriana Gomes PCA Global Service Director Trade Facilitation Services Connectivity & Products Tel: (+44) 7813366757
New Toddler Sense Gateshead Class Leader Named Finalist in Class Business Awards Less Than a Year After Launch
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 09:47 EDT
Abby Couper-Douse, who runs the Toddler Sense Gateshead parent and baby classes, has been named as a finalist for New Business of the Year in the 2026 Class Business Awards, an extraordinary achievement given she launched her franchise less than one year ago, in December 2025. The awards ceremony will take place on October 10 at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham, celebrating the very best independent class and activity leaders across the UK. Founded by Krissy Monaghan, the Class Business Awards were created to do something long overdue: shine a spotlight on the incredible work that happens behind the scenes in children's activity businesses. While the public sees the singing, dancing, and play, the awards recognise the strategising, community building, marketing, planning, and relentless dedication that keeps these vital local services running. "It's not all just coming in and dancing around with a ribbon," explains Abby. "It takes real work, real skill, and real commitment. That's why being a finalist means so much to me, because these awards honour the whole picture, not just the fun bits." What makes the nomination even more meaningful is that Abby has never run a business before. She was inspired by her own experience attending Baby Sensory Gateshead - by the beautiful, welcoming environment Kim created, and the genuine friendships and community that grew from those classes. That inspiration led her to bring Toddler Sense to Gateshead, so she could create that same warmth, connection, and joy for families at the next developmental stage. "I didn't really know until I started that I had that entrepreneurial spirit in me," Abby says. "I saw what Kim had built with the space, the community, and the connections and I knew I wanted to do that too, for toddlers. And now that I've got it, I've really been bitten by the bug. I can't imagine doing anything else." Since launching her classes last December, Abby has built a thriving community across Gateshead and surrounding areas, working closely with all five local Baby Sensory partners, investing in professional marketing training, and delivering classes that families describe as exceptional. Abby's classes have become more than just activity sessions, they are a supportive community hub for parents and carers across Gateshead, Durham, Sunderland, Chester-le-Street, and South Tyneside. "I'm incredibly proud of what we've built in such a short space of time," Abby adds. "Being recognised as a finalist is validation that all the early mornings, late nights, and hard work behind the scenes really do matter. And I'm just getting started." For more information, visit: www.toddlersense.co.uk/gateshead
October's Employment Law Changes Are a Good Moment to Review Equipment Compliance Too
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 05:39 EDT
A set of Employment Rights Act reforms will take effect this October, including extended employment tribunal time limits, new duties on employers to prevent sexual harassment, and strengthened trade union access rights. Pallet Trucks UK says that while most businesses are focused on updating contracts and HR policy ahead of the changes, this is also a sensible moment to review manual handling compliance and equipment standards at the same time. From 1 October, the time limit for bringing most employment tribunal claims doubles from three months to six, giving employees considerably longer to raise a claim. Later in the month, employers take on a new legal duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, alongside further changes strengthening trade union access rights. Businesses are rightly treating this as a significant compliance moment, but it's one that tends to get siloed within HR, when a lot of the same discipline applies equally to health and safety obligations around manual handling. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Whenever changes like this land, we see a real spike in businesses reviewing their policies and paperwork, which is exactly the right response. What we'd add is that it's a good opportunity to widen that review slightly, rather than treating it as purely an HR exercise." Longer tribunal time limits mean businesses need to be more confident than ever that their processes, records and equipment can stand up to scrutiny months after an incident, not just immediately afterwards. If someone raises a manual handling issue six months down the line, having clear records of equipment maintenance, training and inspection makes a genuine difference. Chesworth added, "If you're already updating policies and making sure documentation is in order for October, checking that the equipment your staff are using day - such as pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables - are properly specified, maintained and recorded takes relatively little extra effort, but it closes a gap a lot of businesses don't think about until they need to. "Don't let this become a tick-box HR exercise. Use the moment properly, and equipment compliance should be part of that conversation." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
London to host 35+ late-stage MENA founders, led by Key Capital and regional partners
Thu, Sep 17, 2026 05:20 EDT
35+ top Middle East and North Africa technology founders are heading to London to connect with international capital to power growth As global venture investors become increasingly selective, MENA's strongest technology companies continue attracting international capital and expanding globally despite prolonged geopolitical uncertainty Key Capital seeks to further strengthen the MENA entrepreneurial ecosystem with fourth edition of Key Trek , a week of curated events in London More than 35 technology founders from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) will head to London this month to meet global venture capital firms, institutional investors, family offices and strategic partners with the objective of connecting with international capital to fuel further growth, during Key Trek 2026 , organised by VC secondaries asset manager Key Capital . While geopolitical tensions continue to dominate headlines, MENA's technology ecosystem has continued to mature, producing companies that are increasingly attracting international capital and expanding into global markets. "Periods of uncertainty do not stop great companies from being built - they simply make capital more selective," said Basil Moftah, managing partner at Key Capital. "The MENA founder ecosystem continues to thrive despite the challenging situation. The quality of entrepreneurs emerging from the MENA region has never been stronger and these founders are committed to drive growth and innovation, all while generating wealth and creating jobs and legacy. Key Capital's role is to ensure international investors continue to meet these founders and incorporate them into their global portfolios. Long-term investment decisions should be driven by exceptional businesses rather than short-term headlines." Key Trek 2026 - this year in its fourth edition - is a week-long programme that brings together many of the region's most promising late-stage founders attracting strong participation from leading global investors. It includes a series of curated meetings, sector-focused discussion panels and sessions, as well as private dinners. Key Trek serves as a platform, facilitating strategic introductions that can lead to long-term business relationships and partnerships, introducing a pool of companies valued at over $150bn to international investors. Just last year, the programme encompassed 270 targeted meetings, 35 international investors and 32 MENA companies. The fourth edition will seek to highlight the depth and breadth of the MENA entrepreneurial ecosystem, and will include companies from a broad range of technology sectors: AI and data, fintech and financial infrastructure, enterprise software, cybersecurity, deep technology, logistics and mobility, proptech and vertical SaaS. Participating companies will include market-proven firms such as real estate platform PRYPCO , unified AI infrastructure firm ThinkAI , healthtech BioSapien , logistics and digital trade document provider CargoX , financial infrastructure for B2B commerce SILQ , and SME digital banking/business solutions Hala ( full list ). "Highly curated and personalised opportunities to engage directly with the international investor community are invaluable. Beyond access to capital, they create the relationships, understanding and international exposure that help ambitious MENA companies scale globally," explained Julie Barbier-Leblan, CEO and co-founder of Merit . While ClearGrid co-founder and CEO, Mohammad Al Zaben, explained: "as we progress in our vision to provide lenders with software and infrastructure to resolve debt in an efficient and fair way, ongoing funding from different types of investors becomes critical. It allows us to achieve critical mass to deliver value to current investors, customers and employees." Key Trek 2026 is supported by strategic ecosystem partners, including 500 Global, Arbor Ventures, AWS, BECO Capital, BlackRock, Dubai Financial Market, DotZero, Dubai Future District Fund, Endeavor, ExBorder Partners, Hub71, Impact46, Inovia Capital, Jefferies, Key Capital, Pact VC, QED Investors, RAED Ventures, SHUAA Capital PSC, Stride Asset Management, VentureSouq, and Winston Taylor. "As we think about moving the MENA entrepreneurial ecosystem forward, programmes like Key Trek and Key Capital with its secondary capital offering are a critical part of the puzzle. The talent in the region is extraordinary and supporting high growth businesses with growth capital is the next step in their global ambitions," explained Omar Majdouie, founding partner at RAED Ventures. Basma AlBadi AlDhaheri, head of value creation at Hub71, said: "Global investors are increasingly looking to this region for the next generation of high-growth technology companies, and Hub71 startups are well positioned to capture that interest. Through leading investor roadshows such as Key Trek, we are connecting our startups with the right investors, opening access to global capital and creating opportunities for them to scale and expand into international markets." Key Trek 2026 will run from September 30 to October 7 in London, UK. About Key Capital Key Capital is a venture capital (VC) secondaries asset manager, run by experienced operators and investors: Basil Moftah, Leena Khalil, Abdo Edris, and Sean Guilfoyle. The firm provides direct and structured liquidity solutions for founders, early investors and fund managers in high growth technology companies. For more information visit: https://key.capital/ .
Beignet Fest debuts new culinary storytelling experience, 'The Porch'
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 13:52 EDT
Beignet Fest returns Saturday, Nov. 7 and will debut a new signature experience for festgoers called The Porch. Presented by Blue Runner, The Porch will serve as a gathering place where local chefs and food personalities will share the stories, traditions and people behind Louisiana's celebrated culinary culture - all set against the backdrop of a welcoming front porch motif. Celebrity chef, Kevin Belton, will host intimate, guided conversations on The Porch. Confirmed guests include Chef Nick Cook of Brigtsen's Restaurant and Robbie Harrison of Loretta's Authentic Pralines. Additional guests will be announced as the lineup comes together. "We created Beignet Fest to celebrate the legacy of the iconic beignet from its roots as an 18th-century sweet treat brought to New Orleans by the French to the creative dishes and new interpretations we see today." said Sherwood Collins, co-founder and executive director Beignet Fest. "It felt natural to create an experience that allows us to share stories like this about other traditions in our community." For presenting sponsor Blue Runner, the experience is a natural extension of a brand with deep roots in Louisiana food culture. "Food has a way of bringing people together, and so do great stories," said Katie Bautsch, president of Blue Runner Foods. "Blue Runner has been part of Louisiana kitchens and traditions for generations, and we're proud to help create a place where people can gather, connect and celebrate the food culture we all share." Beignet Fest is Saturday, Nov. 7 at New Orleans City Park's Festival Grounds. It's the ninth annual celebration of beignets, food, music and community. The Porch is part of Beignet Fest's continued evolution as a signature New Orleans festival while supporting the mission of the Beignet Fest Foundation. Founded in 2016, the Beignet Fest Foundation was created to increase awareness and support for children on the autism spectrum. To date, Beignet Fest has raised more than $3 million to support education and enrichment programs serving children with autism and their families. For more information about The Porch and to purchase discounted early bird tickets through Oct. 3, visit beignetfest.com . The 2026 Beignet Fest menu will be announced Oct. 5. ### *Editor's Note: For Beignet Fest images, click here .
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Returns Across England for Christmas 2026
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 07:01 EDT
Families across England can climb aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride this Christmas as the acclaimed immersive experience returns to five destinations for 2026: Tunbridge Wells in Kent, Buckfastleigh in Devon, Wensleydale in North Yorkshire, Birmingham Moor Street Station and London Euston. Tickets are now on sale for departures running from 7 November to 30 December, depending on location. From heritage railways in the South East, South West and North Yorkshire to landmark city-centre stations in Birmingham and London, each production offers families a local gateway into the much-loved Christmas story. The five experiences share the same combination of cinematic storytelling, live theatrical performance and festive hospitality, while drawing on the character of their individual settings. PNP Events, together with its partner railways and venues, Rail Events Inc. and Warner Bros., will once again bring the story to life at destinations across England. The 2026 productions continue PNP Events' collaboration with theatre director Pip Minnithorpe, who has worked as an associate or resident director on productions including Mamma Mia!, Wicked, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Spamalot and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. With five destinations across England, families can choose an experience close to home or make it the focus of a festive weekend away. Whether departing from Kent, Devon, North Yorkshire, the West Midlands or London, every guest can enjoy the same signature journey inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's book and the 2004 film. From pyjamas on the platform to the first chime of a silver sleigh bell, the approximately one-hour theatrical journey transforms a train ride into a family Christmas adventure. Many guests embrace the occasion in matching festive sleepwear, adding to the atmosphere before the train has even departed. On board, performers bring the story's characters to life as the conductor punches golden tickets, dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and a cookie, and passengers read along with the original tale on their journey towards the North Pole. Guests can watch out for their favourite characters from the film before Santa and his elf assistant make their way through the carriages to present every passenger with a silver sleigh bell - the cherished first gift of Christmas. Each guest also receives a souvenir golden ticket to take home. 2026 Dates and Locations South East - Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, Kent: departures from 7 November to 30 December 2026. www.spavalleythepolarexpressride.com South West - South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh, Devon: departures from 27 November to 23 December 2026. www.southdevonrailwaythepolarexpressride.com North - Wensleydale Railway, North Yorkshire: departures from 13 November to 23 December 2026. www.yorkshiredalesthepolarexpressride.com West Midlands - Birmingham Moor Street Station: 2026 departures from 22 November to 23 December 2026. www.birminghamthepolarexpressride.com London - London Euston: departures from 5 December to 23 December 2026. www.londonthepolarexpressride.com Popular departures sold quickly last year, so families are encouraged to book early through the website for their chosen location. Ticket prices vary by destination, date and departure time. Across all its events, PNP Events will again support the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, with 5p from each biodegradable carrier bag sold at on-site shops helping to maintain Britain's only free-ranging herd of reindeer in the Cairngorm mountains. Media Contacts: Caroline Edmunds at Pennington PR: 01892 616647 or 07775 943305, caroline@penningtonpr.com Mark Haynes | Emily Woodcock | PNP Events LTD: 01952 946 053 | marketing@pnpevents.co.uk Notes to Editors About THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Official THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides are licensed by Rail Events Inc. on behalf of Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Inc. Since 2007, Rail Events Inc. has held the exclusive licence to operate THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. About THE POLAR EXPRESS Book THE POLAR EXPRESS film is based on Chris Van Allsburg's award-winning Christmas picture book, telling the tale of a young boy's extraordinary journey to the North Pole aboard a magical train. First published in 1985 by the Houghton Mifflin Company, the book has become a holiday staple and has sold over 12 million copies worldwide. It won the prestigious Caldecott Medal for Illustration in 1986. About Warner Bros. Consumer Products Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), part of Warner Bros. Entertainment, brings the Studio's iconic brands to life through licensing and merchandising. Working with top-tier licensees globally, WBCP offers a wide range of toys, apparel, home décor, and publishing inspired by properties such as DC, Wizarding World, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera. The division also oversees immersive themed experiences such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. WBCP continues to lead in global licensing and entertainment experiences for fans worldwide. About Rail Events Inc. Rail Events Inc. is the industry leader in rail-based themed events. In 2024, its licensed experiences drew over 1.5 million guests at 54 partner railways in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Rail Events Inc. and its production arm, Rail Events Productions, are wholly owned by American Heritage Railways - the premier heritage rail operator in the United States. About PNP Events Ltd Headquartered in Telford, Shropshire, PNP Events Ltd specialises in immersive, licensed events. Since 2019, the company has staged official THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride experiences across the UK. PNP Events also produces Indie Explosion, Hail, Hail, Rock & Roll Show, and Wonderglow - Light Experience, based on the classic Alice in Wonderland tale. Credentialed press and influencers are invited to apply for preview tickets by emailing: marketing@pnpevents.co.uk Photographs available THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Based on THE POLAR EXPRESS book and characters © & ™ 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved.
SGS Highlights Gibraltar's New Chemicals Regulations
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 04:30 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 122.26, highlighting Gibraltar's Chemicals Regulations 2026 (LN. 2026/183). Published on July 13, 2026, the Chemicals Regulations 2026 establish a framework for the management of chemical substances, whether supplied on their own, in mixtures or in articles. The Regulation was made under the powers granted by the Treaty on Gibraltar and the European Union Act 2026 (Act No 2026-11). The Regulation incorporates provisions from two key EU regulations into Gibraltar's domestic law: Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) and Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 Classification, Labeling and Packaging of Substances and Mixtures (CLP Regulation). The Chemicals Regulations 2026 affect stakeholders across the consumer products supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Gibraltar, and became effective on July 15, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 122.26 includes a useful table outlining key provisions of the new law. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 122.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Gibraltar Issues New Legislation for Chemicals Management SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Intellian & Network Innovations Sign Strategic Deal for Multi-Orbit WGS Military Terminals
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 04:23 EDT
Intellian Technologies Inc ., a global provider of advanced satellite communications technologies and mission-critical connectivity solutions, and Network Innovations , a global technology systems integrator focused on government, military and enterprise sectors, today announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop and distribute next-generation tactical ground Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) flyaway terminals for military and government customers. Developed with insights from Network Innovations' 20+ years of real-world operational experience in supporting military and WGS customers in some of the most demanding missions, the new flyaway terminal platform is designed to be the world's first to support simultaneous Mil-X, Mil Ka-band and Commercial Ka and Ku-band connectivity, with electronic switching across an extended range of Ka-band frequencies. Purpose-built for operations utilizing the WGS constellation, the system is engineered to deliver secure, resilient, high-capacity communications for expeditionary forces and other mission-critical deployments. The deployable systems can be operational in as little as 30 minutes and have been designed from the outset for multi-band and multi-orbit operations across LEO, MEO, GEO, and HEO constellations. The platform is also being designed for interoperability with leading and emerging satellite networks, as well as sovereign NGSO constellations. Built for demanding operational environments, the flyaway terminals are being engineered to achieve full WGS certification and compliance with key MIL-SPEC requirements. Intellian also plans to introduce non-WGS commercial variants of the platform, extending the technology to a broader range of government, enterprise, and critical communications applications. "Developing our first tactical ground WGS flyaway platform represents an important expansion of Intellian's military and government portfolio," said Eric Sung, CEO of Intellian. "By combining simultaneous X-band and Military Ka-band capability, access to wider commercial Ka frequencies, and multi-orbit connectivity in a rapidly deployable architecture, we are addressing the increasingly complex communications requirements of modern defense operations. Our goal is to give operators greater flexibility, resilience, and assured connectivity wherever their missions take them." Derek Dawson, CEO of Network Innovations, added, "Network Innovations and Intellian have worked together successfully for many years, and this multi-year agreement represents a significant expansion of our strategic relationship. By combining Intellian's advanced terminal technology with Network Innovations' deep experience serving military and government customers worldwide, we can accelerate the introduction of this new capability. This next generation solution supports not only WGS satellites, but also the combination of all existing and new LEO/MEO satellites, which is increasingly important to our customers and their missions." The partnership combines Intellian's expertise in advanced satellite terminal technology, multi-orbit connectivity, RF systems, and ruggedized communications platforms with Network Innovations' established military and government market presence, systems integration capabilities, and global distribution network.
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SGS publishes SafeGuardS on revised ISO toy element testing standard
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 04:16 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 123.26, highlighting the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)'s publication of ISO 8124-5:2026, 'Safety of Toys - Part 5: Determination of total concentration of certain elements in toys'. This second edition of the standard updates the test methods used to determine the total concentration of eight elements in toys - antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury and selenium. It cancels and replaces the 2015 edition and has applied since August 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders across the toy supply chain informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 123.26 includes details of the changes introduced in this edition, including revised digestion methods, updated detection limits and a new EDXRF screening method for plastic toys. The standard may also be used to support migration testing decisions under ISO 8124-3 and equivalent standards such as EN 71-3 and ASTM F963. Stakeholders are encouraged to read SafeGuardS 123.26 for more details. SGS Toy & Juvenile Product Services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's Toy & Juvenile Product Services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full ISO Updates Standard for Measuring Certain Elements in Toys SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Former Primary School Teacher Starts New Chapter with Toddler Sense Bridgend
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 04:15 EDT
After ten years working with children, Carys Daniel thought she knew what direction her career was heading in. As is often the case, maternity leave changed her mind. The former primary school teacher has just taken up the mantel as the new class leader for Toddler Sense Bridgend, swapping the school day for a very different kind of work with young children and their families. Before joining Toddler Sense, Carys worked as a camp counsellor, teaching assistant and, most recently, a primary school teacher. But after returning to work following maternity leave, she realised teaching was no longer where she wanted to be. The answer came from an unlikely place: an email. Carys had previously taken her little boy to Baby Sensory classes and had been disappointed when their time there came to an end. When she later received an email about the opportunity to run Toddler Sense in Bridgend, the timing felt right. "I loved taking my little boy to Baby Sensory, and I really missed it when we finished," said Carys. "At the same time, I had come to the point where I knew I didn't want to continue teaching. When I saw the Toddler Sense opportunity, I started looking into it and it just felt like the right move. "I've spent so many years working with children, so I knew I still wanted that to be part of my life. What I liked about this was the chance to work with families in a completely different way." Toddler Sense is aimed at children aged from around 13 months to five years. The programme combines movement, play and sensory activities, with sessions built around routines and activities developed through years of research and development. For Carys, that structure was one of the things that stood out. "There is a lot of thought behind the classes," she said. "Everything has been developed for a reason, from the routines to the activities themselves. But, from a child's point of view, they're simply coming somewhere to play, have fun and try new things." Carys now hopes to build Toddler Sense Bridgend into somewhere families feel comfortable from the moment they arrive. "I want parents to feel at ease and children to have the freedom to explore, socialise and enjoy themselves," she added. "Those early years go so quickly, and I think having somewhere you can go together, meet other people and make memories along the way really matters." For more information, please visit www.toddlersense.com/bridgend .
E-commerce Warehouses Urged to Plan Ahead of 2027 Zero-hours Contract Restrictions
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 04:02 EDT
New restrictions on zero-hours contracts, due to take effect under the Employment Rights Act during 2027, are expected to push many e-commerce and fulfilment businesses towards more structured, predictable staffing models. Pallet Truck Shop says that while the changes are still some way off, businesses that currently lean heavily on flexible or casual warehouse staff would be wise to start planning now - including thinking about the equipment those changing teams will be using. The reforms will give workers greater rights around guaranteed hours and reasonable notice of shifts, moving many businesses away from the highly flexible staffing patterns that have become common in fast-growing online retail. For fulfilment operations that scale staffing up and down heavily around seasonal peaks, this represents a genuine change in how warehouse teams are likely to be built and managed in the coming years. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said, "A lot of e-commerce businesses have built their whole staffing model around flexibility, bringing people in when volumes are high and scaling back when they're not. These changes don't remove that need, but they do mean businesses will need to think more carefully about how they achieve it. "One knock-on effect that doesn't get talked about much is what this means for equipment. If you're moving towards a smaller, more stable core team rather than a constantly rotating pool of casual staff, that's a good opportunity to invest properly in equipment those staff will use regularly, rather than defaulting to whatever's cheapest or easiest to hand to someone on their first shift. A more settled team can be trained properly on equipment, and equipment can be chosen with their long-term comfort and efficiency in mind, rather than just being simple enough for someone to pick up for a single busy weekend. That's a meaningful change in how businesses should be thinking about their pallet trucks , stackers , table trucks . "While 2027 feels a way off, but workforce changes like this take time to plan properly," Chesworth added. "Businesses that start thinking now about what a more stable team actually needs, including the equipment they'll be using day in, day out, will be in a much stronger position when the changes land." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Turnstone Estates and Diocese of Ely Partner on £200m Cambridge Fringe Development
Wed, Sep 16, 2026 03:53 EDT
Plans could deliver up to 646,000 sq ft of employment space on 43-acre Milton Park site Cambridge, 16 th September 2026 : Independent property developer and investor Turnstone Estates has entered into a Promotion and Option Agreement with the Ely Diocesan Board of Finance (EDBF) to bring forward planning proposals for a major mixed employment scheme on a 43-acre site at Milton Park, on the northern fringe of Cambridge. Turnstone will act as EDBF's land promotion partner, seeking planning permission for a first phase of around 350,000 sq ft of employment floorspace. The scheme is intended to address a shortage of suitable space for businesses in sectors including advanced manufacturing, mid-tech, trade counters and final-mile distribution. Milton Park could also provide new premises for established Cambridge businesses currently occupying sites identified for residential redevelopment - including those in the trade counter and motor trade sectors - helping to release constrained sites in and around the city for new housing while retaining businesses and employment in the Cambridge area. The benefits of this approach are already demonstrated at Milton Park, where the construction of the new South Cambridgeshire Police Station has enabled the release of the constabulary's former site in central Cambridge for residential redevelopment. Located on the western side of the A10, within half a mile of Junction 33 of the A14, Milton Park is well connected to Cambridge and the wider region. The site benefits from the existing 800-space Milton Park & Ride, with buses running every 10 minutes into Cambridge city centre. The proposed Cambridge to Waterbeach Busway would also include a stop at Butt Lane, further strengthening the site's sustainable transport connections. A potential second phase could provide a further 296,000 sq ft of employment floorspace if the existing Park & Ride is eventually considered surplus following the proposed opening of a new facility at Waterbeach in 2031. Tim Deacon, Director, Turnstone Estates , said: "Cambridge has a shortage of suitable space for a range of businesses that are important to the local economy, while some established occupiers are also facing pressure to relocate as existing employment sites are identified for housing. Milton Park offers an opportunity to address both challenges, providing modern, well-connected employment space while helping to release other sites for much-needed homes. "We believe this represents a sustainable approach to Cambridge's continued growth and can help support the wider objectives of the Local Plan. With strong existing transport connections and limited requirement for major new infrastructure, the site also has the potential, subject to planning, to be delivered relatively quickly." The Diocese of Ely added: "The Diocese owns a parcel of land in this area and has long been keen for it to be used for the benefit of the people of Cambridge. Many years ago, the County Council took part of the site on lease and built the Park & Ride on it. More recently, the Police & Crime Commissioner asked to buy a further part of the site for the new police station, which is due to open shortly. And currently, an operator is building an electric vehicle charging station on another part of the site, which will be well-placed to charge EVs using the A10 and the Park & Ride. The agreement with Turnstone Estates is a natural follow-on from this activity and will, we hope, create high-quality commercial space and jobs for the benefit of the people of Cambridge." Carter Jonas and Mills & Reeve acted for EDBF. Howes Percival acted for Turnstone Estates. ENDS