Tag Archives: st asaph

News

Skills and safety, renewable energy and women in construction top priorities for new FMB President

CAREER opportunities for young people, safety regulations and support for women in construction are top priorities for the new leader of a prominent trade association.

Gareth Jones is already making strides as President for the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in Wales.

The Managing Director of award-winning Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph and Mochdre – laid out a series of priorities for the coming two years.

“There are so many issues facing the construction sector, legislatively and economically, not just in Wales but UK-wide,” said Gareth.

“But crucially in this role I want to shine a light on the many positive as well, including the growing role of women in construction and how we can attract more young people into the industry.

“The list of career opportunities is endless, and there is significant demand for skilled workers in a wide range of construction jobs, but for many people what comes to mind is labouring, bricklaying and the blue-collar side of the business.

“They are pivotal of course, but design and architecture are other areas to explore, and marketing, engineering, human resources, finance, management and more.”

Gareth is also determined to raise awareness of Welsh construction firms going above and beyond in good practice around heritage and green skills, ‘retrofitting’ of new homes.

He will do so as President, and through his popular YouTube podcasts – Eco Talk Rewired and Managing Director Diaries

“The podcasts will allow me to sit down with experts in the construction arena and discuss what the important issues are facing business owners, young people trying to access the industry, while also speaking to educators, tradespeople and more,” said Gareth.

“And for years I have campaigned for a review of building regulations – notably on fire safety, solar panels and renewables installation – which are other topics I will be focused on.”

He added: “I am privileged to have taken on this position, following two years as Vice President, and look forward to representing the thousands of men and women in Wales helping to raise standards in the construction sector.

“I am here for you and look forward to working together in the years ahead.”

The Federation of Master Builders is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing the interests of small and medium-sized building companies and lobbying for members at both national and local levels since 1941.

For more information, visit the website: The Top Trade Body For Builders | FMB, Federation of Master Builders.

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

Subscribe to the podcasts here: www.youtube.com/@EcoTalkPodcast and https://www.youtube.com/@ManagingDirectorDiaries.

News

New faces at leading law firm as expansion plans continue ahead of 25th anniversary

THE new practice manager at a leading law firm will support further expansion in the years ahead.

Tammy Strapp, from Flint, has joined the award-winning team at Mackenzie Jones Solicitors, which has offices in St Asaph, Chester, and Menai Bridge.

Having spent more than two decades in the HR (Human Resources) and legal sectors she is pleased to join the business ahead of its 25th anniversary.

Tammy’s arrival follows that of property solicitor Laura Corrigan, and Elliott Morgan, a paralegal, in past weeks.

With directors labelling this “the busiest period” in the company’s history, she is looking forward to the challenge.

“I have worked in HR and for law practices in North Wales previously, so when this opportunity came around given the reputation of Mackenzie Jones, I had to go for it,” said Tammy, who is married to Ian and has one daughter, Morgan.

“I am so pleased to be here and excited to see what the future brings given the growth of the business over the last few years.

“In this position I’ll be able to play a part in that, as well as dealing with compliance, staff development and day-to-day operations, of which I have a lot of experience.”

She added: “The team have all made me feel so welcome, I can’t wait to get started.”

Now employing more than 30 staff, Mackenzie Jones directors Anna Mills Morgan, Richard Jones, and Andrew Foley Jones said Tammy will be pivotal to their success moving forward.

“Tammy is a fantastic addition to the team and joins us at a key time as we continue to expand and secure new clients in North Wales, the North West, and beyond,” said Anna.

“As we develop our health and wellbeing strategy, move towards net zero and sharpen our focus on professional development, her role will be crucial, so we are delighted she has joined us.”

Mackenzie Jones holds prestigious accreditations including Lexcel, CQS, SIA and the Legal 500.

For more information, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.

News

Largest provider of carer services in Wales moves to new 6,000 sq ft Flintshire HQ after doubling workforce

THE largest provider of carer services in Wales unveiled new headquarters following a surge in demand.

The move comes after NEWCIS (North East Wales Carers Information Service) doubled its workforce post-pandemic while receiving more than 100 carer referrals a week from Wrexham, Flintshire and Denbighshire.

The organisation has moved to a nearly 6,000 square foot premises in Mold High Street – formerly Barclay’s Bank – and completely renovated the building to include a shop, offices, meeting rooms, disabled access and a pop-up space for community and health groups to utilise.

NEWCIS was supported by local businesses, notably St Asaph-based FFP Solutions, which helped them secure the funding to acquire the property, and Cilcain’s DC Wolfe Construction Ltd.

CEO Claire Sullivan – approaching 25 years with NEWCIS – said they also received a series of grants, including a Town Centre Property Improvement Grant, which helped the organisation take the “natural next step” and bring all its operations under one roof.

Now employing more than 50 staff and representing up to 24,000 carers in Wales, Claire says NEWCIS will continue to go from strength to strength.

“We are delighted to finally open; the process has been a real labour of love, but we are here and proud to be at the heart of Mold’s busy high street,” she said.

“Having such a large space and being on the ground floor makes us even more accessible, which is vital as we have carers who work with people living with dementia and disabilities, many of whom struggled to utilise some of our other bases.

“This location is perfect and gives us the opportunity to move things around when needed for events or larger training groups, and there is also an outdoor area we will look to develop for health and wellbeing projects.

“We hope our presence will be well received, especially the shop as it’s a real blank canvas, the footfall and passing traffic are unlike anything we’ve seen so we want to catch the eye and entice customers in to support us.”

Long-term plans also include a drop-in banking facility and the hosting of classes and workshops, including sewing and crafts, and parent and child sessions.

Claire is confident the move will create additional revenue streams and have a positive impact for years to come, and thanked FFP Solutions for helping them to achieve their vision.

“I would also like to thank Flintshire County Council, Mold Town Council and our amazing volunteers and board of trustees for their support throughout this process,” she said.

“It has taken a lot of time and effort to get to this point and there is more to come as we are going to do this step by step and in phases, but this is the perfect platform for us to do that and achieve our goals.”

Claire added: “We are receiving more than 100 referrals a week and that number is rising all the time, not just in north east Wales but in South Wales, where we are also supporting carers.

“This looks set to continue, especially following the pandemic as so many community and day centres closed for good.

“We will still be working across communities and are looking at opening other hubs in this region to bolster our outreach services, given the demand we are seeing, but for now we want to settle into our new home and continue delivering training, counselling, financial assistance, and advocacy to the tens of thousands of carers and families who need our help.”

FFP Solutions Director Richard Lloyd-Jones congratulated them on the redevelopment and said: “We were happy to play our part in helping NEWCIS acquire this property, it is perfect for their needs and I’m sure will be of great value to the community and their growing network of carers.

“Assisting organisations and businesses of all sizes in securing funding is one of our strengths, and this is another example where our services have been used to realise long-term ambitions – anyone else in that position should definitely get in touch to find out how we can help.”

For more news and information or to support NEWCIS, visit the website www.newcis.org.uk and follow them on social media.

Visit the website www.ffp-solutions.co.uk or email admin@ffp-solutions.co.uk for more information on FFP Solutions.

News

Largest provider of carer services in Wales moves to new 6,000 sq ft Flintshire HQ after doubling workforce

THE largest provider of carer services in Wales unveiled new headquarters following a surge in demand.

The move comes after NEWCIS (North East Wales Carers Information Service) doubled its workforce post-pandemic while receiving more than 100 carer referrals a week from Wrexham, Flintshire and Denbighshire.

The organisation has moved to a nearly 6,000 square foot premises in Mold High Street – formerly Barclay’s Bank – and completely renovated the building to include a shop, offices, meeting rooms, disabled access and a pop-up space for community and health groups to utilise.

NEWCIS was supported by local businesses, notably St Asaph-based FFP Solutions, which helped them secure the funding to acquire the property, and Cilcain’s DC Wolfe Construction Ltd.

CEO Claire Sullivan – approaching 25 years with NEWCIS – said they also received a series of grants, including a Town Centre Property Improvement Grant, which helped the organisation take the “natural next step” and bring all its operations under one roof.

Now employing more than 50 staff and representing up to 24,000 carers in Wales, Claire says NEWCIS will continue to go from strength to strength.

“We are delighted to finally open; the process has been a real labour of love, but we are here and proud to be at the heart of Mold’s busy high street,” she said.

“Having such a large space and being on the ground floor makes us even more accessible, which is vital as we have carers who work with people living with dementia and disabilities, many of whom struggled to utilise some of our other bases.

“This location is perfect and gives us the opportunity to move things around when needed for events or larger training groups, and there is also an outdoor area we will look to develop for health and wellbeing projects.

“We hope our presence will be well received, especially the shop as it’s a real blank canvas, the footfall and passing traffic are unlike anything we’ve seen so we want to catch the eye and entice customers in to support us.”

Long-term plans also include a drop-in banking facility and the hosting of classes and workshops, including sewing and crafts, and parent and child sessions.

Claire is confident the move will create additional revenue streams and have a positive impact for years to come, and thanked FFP Solutions for helping them to achieve their vision.

“I would also like to thank Flintshire County Council, Mold Town Council and our amazing volunteers and board of trustees for their support throughout this process,” she said.

“It has taken a lot of time and effort to get to this point and there is more to come as we are going to do this step by step and in phases, but this is the perfect platform for us to do that and achieve our goals.”

Claire added: “We are receiving more than 100 referrals a week and that number is rising all the time, not just in north east Wales but in South Wales, where we are also supporting carers.

“This looks set to continue, especially following the pandemic as so many community and day centres closed for good.

“We will still be working across communities and are looking at opening other hubs in this region to bolster our outreach services, given the demand we are seeing, but for now we want to settle into our new home and continue delivering training, counselling, financial assistance, and advocacy to the tens of thousands of carers and families who need our help.”

FFP Solutions Director Richard Lloyd-Jones congratulated them on the redevelopment and said: “We were happy to play our part in helping NEWCIS acquire this property, it is perfect for their needs and I’m sure will be of great value to the community and their growing network of carers.

“Assisting organisations and businesses of all sizes in securing funding is one of our strengths, and this is another example where our services have been used to realise long-term ambitions – anyone else in that position should definitely get in touch to find out how we can help.”

For more news and information or to support NEWCIS, visit the website www.newcis.org.uk and follow them on social media.

Visit the website www.ffp-solutions.co.uk or email admin@ffp-solutions.co.uk for more information on FFP Solutions.

News

‘Busiest period in our history’ for law practice as UK growth continues

A LAW practice approaching its 25th anniversary is experiencing the busiest period in its history.

City centre expansion has contributed to a surge in high-end clients for Mackenzie Jones Solicitors.

The award-winning legal firm – based in St Asaph and Menai Bridge – recorded a spike in commercial cases since opening its new base in Chester.

Director Andrew Foley Jones said there has been a rise in a wide range of sectors UK-wide, including tourism and hospitality, retail – notably opticians – and the healthcare arena.

He says this is arguably the most active period the business – in its 24th year of trading – has ever had.

“I have never known it to be so busy,” said Andrew.

“We are representing companies and organisations across the UK on large commercial sales, often multi-million pound acquisitions such as holiday parks and retail units, and have been inundated since the turn of the year.

“Every department has seen an increase in demand for its services, which is phenomenal, and demonstrates the confidence clients have in our amazing team.”

Relocating to Grosvenor Road in Chester, and growth at its main headquarters in Denbighshire – the practice now employs more than 30 staff – were key strategic moves in the last 12 months.

Mackenzie Jones, which holds prestigious accreditations including Lexcel, CQS, SIA and the Legal 500, has recently brought in two new faces to accommodate the increased demand for its services: Laura Corrigan, a property solicitor and Elliott Morgan, a paralegal, to bolster the expanding property and commercial teams working out of Chester.

Fellow director Sara Parry said part of the reason for their success is in being able to serve more clients in the North West, Midlands and beyond.

“Building our presence In England and UK-wide was the clear next step for the practice as we have such a strong reputation in Wales, and it has paid dividends,” she added.

“We have expanded in tandem with many of our clients, who come to us for representation on what are often huge deals commercially, so it was pivotal we were in position to deliver.

“This is not a business that rests on its laurels, we will continue to grow organically, with a focus on providing opportunities for the next generation of solicitors and legal workers and continuing to provide our clients with a first-class service.”

For more information, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.

News

Welsh legal firm sees rise in family law cases despite drop in national divorce rate

THE cost-of-living crisis, fewer marriages and a more settled period following the Covid-19 pandemic have contributed to a decrease in divorces in the UK.

But long-term, latest ONS (Office for National Statistics) figures revealing there were 80,057 divorces – down from 113,505 in 2021 – may not point towards family bliss, according to family law solicitors.

The ONS says the numbers may have been affected by the introduction of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act, which came into effect in April 2022 and introduced new mandatory waiting periods at important stages, and other changes including allowing couples to end a partnership jointly, and the removal of fault-based grounds for divorce.

The cost implications also played a role, according to many in the sector, though Jade Liptrot – a Solicitor at Mackenzie Jones Solicitors, based in St Asaph, Chester, and Menai Bridge – says anyone concerned should explore their options.

“A wide range of factors have impacted on the figures, and of course it looks very positive to see divorce rates in the UK fall,” said Jade.

“That said, staying together for purely economic reasons will no doubt put a strain on the family unit.

“Divorce and relationship breakdowns can be a trying time without having to worry about the financial and legal complications which often go with it, which is why we are focused on providing sensitive care and support.

“We have seen an upturn in people contacting us since the turn of the year, as some have delayed commencing proceedings because of the perceived cost, which is the feedback we are hearing from other practices nationally.”

She added: “Our team have years of experience and are experts in this field, having assisted hundreds of couples across North Wales and beyond for more than two decades.

“This also includes matters such as pre-marital agreements and agreements for couples who live together outside of marriage, so if anyone is worried or unsure about how to proceed, please get in touch.”

The ONS also said the higher number of divorces and dissolutions granted in 2021 may partially reflect delays in the number and timing of divorces granted during 2020 because of disruption in family Court activity during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The lower number of divorces in 2022 may partially reflect the introduction of new minimum waiting periods, meaning that divorces applied for after April 6 that year may take longer to reach final order.

In 2022, there were 78,759 opposite-sex divorces, which is a decrease of 29.6% from 2021 and 23.1% from 2020 divorces.

Same-sex divorces also decreased, to 1,298 in 2022, a decrease of 17.4% compared with 1,571 same-sex divorces in 2021, the first year there was a decrease since the introduction of same-sex marriage in 2014.

For more information and for help and advice, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.

News

Energy firm continues diversification journey with new solar cleaning business

INNOVATION and diversification continue at a renewable energy firm which has added a sparkling new service to its award-winning portfolio.

Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph and Mochdre – is one of the few companies in the sector to offer solar panel cleaning in addition to installation and maintenance.

The development comes after the business welcomed more than 100 guests and exhibitors to its inaugural two-day Solar and Battery Expo at Eirias Park in Colwyn Bay.

While some window cleaners will give solar panels a squeegee and scrape as part of their offering, Carbon Zero’s Managing Director Gareth Jones says customers who have invested in PV technology should stick to specialists to ensure systems continue to operate efficiently.

“We are the only company in the region and one of the few renewable energy businesses in the UK to offer a dedicated specialist cleaning service,” said Gareth, a Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council’s Net Zero North Wales network, and Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders in Wales.

“We have the expertise to do it, are fully insured and have a dedicated vehicle to clean solar panels, unlike window cleaners who will do it in addition to other areas of a property.

“As the weather improves, we will see demand increase. Solar systems are sold as a ‘fit and forget’ and some people think the glass is self-cleaning, but this is far from the truth.

“Dirty solar panels can limit system operation by 30% and be catastrophic for older systems, with old technology. Just like rain doesn’t wash your windows clean, rain also doesn’t fully clean solar panels.

“This is a specialist’s job and maintenance should be completed by experts who know how to treat and handle them. Plus, businesses will need a maintenance contract to satisfy insurance requirements.”

He added: “For us the priority is providing an end-to-end experience for our customers, from the moment we discuss their renewable energy needs through to advice, installation, and maintenance, that relationship continues for many years to come.

“Our recent Expo was an example of that, with collaborators and partners joining us to celebrate the industry and be on hand to help those needing our guidance on a range of issues.

“This surge in interest, led to us taking on new staff in the past weeks having announced our highest ever accounts, so we thank everyone for their support and encourage anyone who has any solar panel or renewable energy system needs to give us a call or keep up to date with the latest news on the sector via our popular new YouTube podcast, Eco Talk Rewired.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

To watch the podcast, visit YouTube: www.youtube.com/@EcoTalkPodcast.

News

Expanding law practice issues warning as almost half of UK adults yet to write a Will

ALMOST half of adults in the UK have not written a will.  

A report by the National Will Register also revealed 42% have not spoken to anyone about what should happen to their estate upon their death.

This is a growing issue nationwide, which is why Mackenzie Jones Solicitors – based in St Asaph, Menai Bridge and Chester – has added prominent Wills and Probate lawyer Matthew Skeels to its award-winning team.

Originally from Pembrokeshire and now living in Wirral – an area where the company has experienced growth in past months – the University of Chester graduate urged people to consider making a will and securing a Power of Attorney document for peace of mind.

“The most important aspect of doing so is the security of knowing your family and loved ones will receive your property or possessions and be cared for financially,” said Matthew, who has worked in the sector for more than a decade.

“But also, to help you avoid probate or any conflict and to make plans for the future. That applies to Power of Attorney as well, so that if you were to become ill or unable to work, or unable to make medical or ‘life’ decisions for yourself, someone else you trust and arrange for can make them for you.

“To see such a large percentage of the population do not have these safeguards in place is quite alarming given how family dynamics and demographics have changes over the generations, so we encourage people to get in touch, even just for advice and guidance so we can point you in the right direction.”

He added: “Being part of the growing team at Mackenzie Jones is fantastic, and with my contacts and presence in the North West that’s an area we will be focusing on over the coming years, in all areas of the business.”

The National Will Register report – published in 2023 – also found just 25% of adults have made a “life folder” with will details enclosed and told someone about it; 49% of respondents said their parents had never discussed instructions or details of a will either.

For those who have not made a will, two in five said that they had not got around to making one yet, while almost a third felt they did not have enough to warrant making a will.

Among over 55s, three in 10 have not spoken to anyone on the subject and half of those are unlikely to in the future – a figure that increases to 58% across all age groups.

For more information, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.

News

City centre move leads to expansion and new commercial clients for law firm

A CITY centre move led to expansion and clients across new commercial sectors for an acclaimed law practice.

Mackenzie Jones Solicitors – based in St Asaph, Menai Bridge and a recently opened base in Grosvenor Street, Chester – is attracting business in a wide range of industries.

The firm is representing opticians, care homes, holiday parks and more from its North West office and now planning to take on a paralegal to meet demand, having recruited a Wills and Probate lawyer in past weeks.

Director Andrew Foley Jones said relocation and growth in the team will help service territories which have increased “significantly” in the last 12 months.

“Opening in Chester and then moving to larger, more central premises across the city was a result of the huge amount of interest and feedback we’ve received in multiple industries, particularly those purchasing or selling businesses,” said Andrew.

“We’ve represented some major organisations but also independent retailers and hospitality firms looking to expand, and our own growth has aligned with that.

“As a result, we have taken on new staff and will require more, particularly on the administrative side.”

Among those to call upon the support of Mackenzie Jones in recent times were the Jaunty Goat coffee empire; the Livingston family when brokering the multi-million pound sale of Morfa Lodge Holiday Park in Dinas Dinlle, near Caernarfon, and a number of traders moving from Chester Market to the neighbouring £72m Northgate Project development.

Now employing more than 30 people, fellow director Sara Parry believes the company will continue to rise in 2024.

“We have seen more and more walk-ins since the move and being more prominent in this busy location has put us front and centre in people’s minds, given the thousands of cars and pedestrians that pass by every day,” she said.

“And that hasn’t just been in Chester and North Wales, we have more and more calls coming in from across the UK, which is heartening.

“Commercial activity has increased significantly but we’ve also seen that in other areas of the company, including wills and probate and conveyancing, so it’s an incredibly busy time for us.”

The firm, listed in the prestigious Legal 500 rankings, is also exploring plans to open another office in north west Wales.

For more information, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.

News

Law firm opens new city centre office to meet demand in the North West

A PROMINENT legal practice expanded its North West operation to meet demand.

Mackenzie Jones Solicitors has increased its Chester-based team to eight staff and opened a new two-storey office on Grosvenor Street in the heart of the city.

Director Andrew Foley-Jones said growth across the company’s portfolio – including its sites in St Asaph and Menai Bridge – led to the business relocating to bigger premises.

And with Mackenzie Jones now employing up to 30 people that trend looks set to continue into 2024.

“We have seen a rise in clients across all areas, and with us taking on more staff there was a need for a larger office here in Chester,” said Andrew.

“The change has also allowed us to forge new partnerships and relationships in Cheshire and across the wider region, given our rising profile in the North West, built on the foundations we’ve laid in Wales over the last two decades.”

He added: “On the commercial and commercial property sides, the sale and purchase of businesses, as well as conveyancing, clinical negligence, divorce and wills and probate, we have seen an increase in demand and more walk-ins given the busy location.

“Since opening in Chester we have had a warm welcome and strategically it’s been a very positive decision, so thanks to everyone who has shown us so much support.”

Fellow director and solicitor Sara Parry says the larger site will allow them to better serve clients nationwide.

“We are seeing an increase in enquiries from all over the country, notably on the commercial side,” she said.

“It’s been an incredibly busy year and this switch across the city to a fantastic building in a prime location will help us to capitalise on that.”

The firm, again listed in the prestigious Legal 500 rankings, is also exploring plans to open another office in north west Wales.

For more information, visit www.macjones.com or call 0800 328 4466.

Alternatively, follow Mackenzie Jones Solicitors on Facebook and LinkedIn at @macjoneslaw.