Business confidence hits 2026 low, IoD warns Burnham

Business confidence in the UK has fallen to its lowest point this year, with the IoD's optimism index dropping to -61. The lobby group warns Andy Burnham to focus on delivery over government machinery changes.

Thomas Hardy Holdings Reports Record Year

Thomas Hardy Holdings achieved record turnover of £27.5m in 2025, up 39%, with pre-tax profits soaring 132% to £4.1m. The group forecasts further growth in 2026.

Aston Villa Lead for Anis Hadj Moussa

Aston Villa and Newcastle United are front-runners for Feyenoord's Anis Hadj Moussa, with Premier League move his priority despite €35m demand.

Gleeson to Build 200 Homes at Brymbo Park

MJ Gleeson has been chosen to build 200 new homes on a 16-acre plot at Brymbo Park, the former steelworks site near Wrexham, as part of a major regeneration project.

Management buyout at Tyneside air conditioning firm

Acrol Air Condition, a Gateshead-based firm, has been acquired by sales director Daniel Wood in a management buyout backed by £300,000 funding from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, marking its 50th year.

Burnham Supports £1,200 Property Tax Plan

Andy Burnham supports a proportional property tax that would charge £1,200 annually for homes worth £250,000, a plan from Fairer Share that could replace council tax.

Page 12 of 403
Pickt mobile sticky banner — logo, tagline and CTA button