Business Manchester

Why hiring a web design agency is the smart choice for your business

Business

Helen Greaney

-

14/03/2025

Why hiring a web design agency is the smart choice for your business

In today’s digital-first world, having a well-designed website is essential for any business. Whether you’re a start-up or an established brand, your website serves as the online face of your company. But when it comes to building or revamping your site, should you handle it in-house or work with a professional agency?

Many businesses are turning to experienced web design agencies to create high-performing websites that not only look great but also drive real results. While an in-house team may seem like a cost-effective option, there are several advantages to working with an agency that specialises in web design and digital strategy.

1. Expertise and experience

Web design agencies have dedicated teams of designers, developers, and UX specialists who have worked on a variety of projects across multiple industries. Their experience ensures your website is not only visually appealing but also functional, fast, and user-friendly.

Businesses are increasingly recognising the benefits of working with agencies close to them, for example businesses in Manchester, may opt for working with a web design agency in Manchester that understands both local markets and broader digital trends. This expertise helps ensure websites are designed with both user experience and business goals in mind.

2. Access to a full range of skills

A successful website requires more than just good design. It involves search engine optimisation (SEO), conversion rate optimisation (CRO), responsive development, and ongoing maintenance. A digital agency that specialises in web design can provide all these services under one roof, ensuring your site is optimised for both user experience and business growth.

With an in-house team, you may need to hire multiple specialists or train existing employees – both of which can be costly and time-consuming.

3. Cost-effectiveness

Many businesses assume that building a website in-house will save money, but this is not always the case. Hiring and training an in-house team requires significant investment in salaries, software, and ongoing professional development. In contrast, an agency provides a team of experts at a fixed cost, giving you access to high-quality design and development without the overheads of full-time staff.

4. Faster turnaround times

Web design agencies follow a structured process, allowing them to deliver high-quality websites within a set timeframe. They have the resources and workflows in place to ensure your project is completed efficiently.

5. Ongoing support and maintenance

A great website isn’t just about the initial build – it requires regular updates, security monitoring, and performance optimisation. Agencies offer ongoing support to keep your site running smoothly, while an in-house team may lack the capacity or expertise to provide this level of service.

You may also want to be able to schedule in-person meetings with the agency, so if for example, you are based in or around the Leeds area, you may prefer working with a Leeds based web design agency – this can help streamline the process.

6. A fresh perspective

When businesses design websites internally, there’s often a risk of becoming too close to the project, leading to a site that may not fully align with what customers need. An external agency brings a fresh perspective, drawing on their experience to create a website that resonates with your audience, rather than one shaped solely by internal opinions.

By focusing on user experience, navigation, and accessibility, a web design agency ensures that visitors to your site can find the information they need quickly and easily, improving engagement and conversion rates.

7. Scalability and flexibility

As your business grows, your website will need to evolve to accommodate new products, services, or customer expectations. An agency can provide scalable solutions that allow your website to expand seamlessly.

Additionally, agencies offer flexibility in their services. If you need additional functionality, such as eCommerce capabilities or integration with third-party software, an experienced agency can implement these features efficiently.

8. The power of data-driven decisions

Web design is not just about aesthetics – it’s about performance. Agencies use analytics, heatmaps, and A/B testing to understand how users interact with your site. This data-driven approach allows them to make informed decisions that enhance usability, increase engagement, and drive more conversions.

An in-house team may not have access to the same level of analytical tools or expertise to interpret the data effectively, which can lead to missed opportunities for improvement.

9. Keeping up with trends and technology

The digital landscape is constantly evolving. Design trends, search engine algorithms, and user expectations change rapidly. A web design agency stays up to date with these changes, ensuring your website remains modern, compliant, and competitive.

From mobile-first design to AI-driven chatbots and enhanced security protocols, an agency can implement the latest technologies to keep your website ahead of the curve.

Conclusion

While an in-house team may seem like a viable option, the expertise, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of a web design agency can make it the smarter choice.

By partnering with professionals, you can focus on growing your business while leaving the technical and creative aspects of web design in expert hands.

Restoration of Grade I listed Rochdale project completes

News

Helen Greaney

-

13/03/2025

0

Restoration of Grade I listed Rochdale project completes

A stunning space within Rochdale Town Hall, which has been closed for almost half a decade, will open its doors once again following an ambitious restoration project.

The council chamber and its adjoining room were shuttered along with the rest of the Grade I listed building back in 2021 to enable the major restoration to take place.

The rest of the building reopened to the public in March 2024 following a council and lottery funded restoration, and work then got under way on the council chamber and the adjoining room, which once served as office space and will now be used as the Mayor’s Parlour.

The council chamber has a fascinating history, having served as Rochdale’s Magistrate’s Court for more than a century following the opening of the town hall in 1871.

In a nod to its legal history, its stained glass windows depict famous legal figures and defenders of civil rights, including John Pym, who spoke against King Charles I and played a major role in the formation of what would become the modern English parliamentary system.

During the restoration, these windows were removed and transported from the town hall to York Minster to be treated by stained glass specialists there.

Ceiling panels depicting coats of arms, hanging fleeces, flora and fauna and other insignia have been cleaned and restored by experts from Lancashire Conservation Studios.

Beautiful frescoes along the walls which had faded away and suffered water damage have been painstakingly repainted by hand by a team of experts, while an old featureless carpet has been replaced by one which depicts cotton plants, in a nod to the borough’s major role in the global cotton trade.

Beautiful mahogany thrones which depict angels, knight’s helmets and lions have been repaired and cleaned using cotton buds and tiny paint brushes and reinstated into the space.

The adjoining room, which once served as a space for magistrates to convene between court hearings and was later office space, has also been transformed and will now serve as the mayor’s parlour.

During the restoration, volunteers discovered that the walls had been covered in a leather material which had pomegranates etched in before it was painted over years ago. The team commissioned a heritage wallpaper company to create a lincrusta wallpaper for the space which featured pomegranates before specialists on site painted it in the original town hall colour palette of red, green and gold.

Council leader Neil Emmott, said: “The town hall is a historic asset and one of our borough’s most precious buildings. It’s vital that it is protected and cared for, so that this important piece of our collective history is not lost to time and decay and can be preserved for future generations.

“I’m delighted that this space has been so lovingly brought back to life and the attention to detail has ensured that it looks very similar to how it would have looked when the town hall first opened more than a century ago. It’s a masterclass in craftsmanship and skill and I can’t wait for people to see it.”

A new lift has been installed so the public gallery can be accessed by all, and a changing place toilet facility is now available.

Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Shakil Ahmed, said: “It’s such an honour to do this job and I’m delighted to be back in this space which is so much a part of the history and the future of our borough and its people. I’d like to thank the specialists and particularly the volunteers, whose paintstaking work has allowed us to uncover and share with people even more of the heritage of this incredible place.”

Tom Crowther KC to chair Oldham child sexual exploitation inquiry

News

Helen Greaney

-

13/03/2025

0

Tom Crowther KC to chair Oldham child sexual exploitation inquiry

One of the most respected figures in the field of effectively tackling child sexual exploitation (CSE) has agreed to chair an independent local inquiry in Oldham.

Tom Crowther KC (pictured) who was chair of the widely-praised independent inquiry into CSE in Telford, will now bring his expertise to Oldham after being appointed to head up the borough’s inquiry.

Tom said: “I’m very pleased to have been asked to chair an independent inquiry into CSE for Oldham Council.

“I know from my work in Telford that an inquiry of his sort can bring the answers the community deserves about what has gone wrong in the past and can ensure best practice is in place for the future.

“That this inquiry begins with the confidence of Oldham’s CSE survivors is hugely important and I am determined that they, and the community as a whole, will be involved as the terms of reference and working details – including mechanisms for obtaining all relevant evidence – are developed.”

An Oldham Council spokesperson added: “Tom is hugely respected by survivors given the excellent work he did in Telford and his appointment reflects the views of the survivors. We believe this is an important step in securing justice for our survivors and Oldham residents more generally.

“We’ve said from the outset that we will put survivors at the heart of any work we do around child sexual exploitation. Having been repeatedly let down by public bodies over the years, that is the least they expect and deserve.

“Oldham Council hopes the news of Tom’s appointment gives real confidence that everyone at the council is determined to ensure that survivors’ voices are heard.”

The setting up of this inquiry, and the appointment of its chair, have been discussed with the survivors and those who support them. They have expressed relief that an inquiry has been put in place and reassurance that Tom has agreed to take this central role.

Last July, Oldham councillors passed a motion to ask the Home Office to review the handling of child abuse and exploitation cases in Oldham.

In January, the home secretary ordered a national audit of the handling of child sexual exploitation by public bodies and gave a commitment to support local independent inquiries. The leadership of Oldham Council restated its commitment to such an inquiry.

Last month, following a vote by councillors, Oldham Council requested the Home Office to establish its own inquiry on national CSE issues.

Co-op Live hailed winner of ‘2024 Building of the Year Award’

Helen Greaney

-

13/03/2025

0

Co-op Live hailed winner of ‘2024 Building of the Year Award’

Despite a host of technical errors and postponed shows following its opening, Co-op Live has been crowned winner of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Building of the Year Award.

The award, sponsored by Jamieson Contracting, was presented at the Chamber’s Property & Construction Annual Dinner, which was held at Imperial War Museum North.

Co-op Live is Europe’s largest indoor arena, with a 23,500 capacity. The building was nominated for both its design quality and the economic benefits that it has brought to the region.

But when it opened last April, it was plagued with technical faults.

Its initial opening test event, with 11,000 guests, had to have its capacity reduced due to power outage issues and a number of shows, including that of comedian Peter Kay, had to be rescheduled for the improvement works to be completed.

Rapper, Boogie Wiv Da Hoodie had his concert postponed when part of the air conditioning unit fell to the floor, shortly after the doors opened.

Since opening, the £400 million venue has hosted the likes of Liam Gallagher and Janet Jackson.

And now, it is successfully running various events and has earned the new honour.

The aim of the Building of the Year Award is to recognise a building’s contribution to Greater Manchester in terms of construction and development. This could include the building’s significance to the City Region, its impact on the local economy, its effect on the local community, its importance in terms of urban regeneration and environmental enhancement, its design excellence, or its contribution to urban design and townscape.

Other buildings shortlisted for the prestigious award included Rochdale Town Hall, Eden, Stockport Interchange and North View.

Diane Elebert-Morgan, property & construction group manager at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: “Co-op Live is a world-class venue which has rapidly become a major part of Greater Manchester’s cultural economy. This striking building is a venue that can compete with anywhere in the country and is a major draw for visitors from far and wide.

“Many areas would be proud to have just one of the buildings that were shortlisted for the Building of the Year Award. The fact we are home to six such impressive developments shows how Greater Manchester’s Property & Construction sector is thriving. Ranging from the stunning refurbishment of an historic gem to a new state-of-the-art transport hub, these are buildings that local people can be proud of and which will have a real impact on their lives for years to come.”

Three teens sentenced for knifepoint robbery in Bolton

Crime

Helen Greaney

-

13/03/2025

0

Three teens sentenced for knifepoint robbery in Bolton

Three teenagers have been sentenced for a terrifying knifepoint robbery in Bolton.

A 16-year-old male and two 17-year-olds were caught after booking a taxi following a swift investigation by detectives and officers from Greater Manchester.

Police were called to reports of a robbery at Harry’s Off Licence, Beverley Road, at around 8pm on January 5.

The shop owner was threatened by a male in a balaclava, who was was wielding a knife, and a quantity of cash was stolen from the till.

The three fled the scene but were not at large for long, as a rapid investigation established they had taken a taxi to the robbery and had booked a second cab later that evening.

That meant officers were waiting to arrest them.

All three, all from the Bolton area, pleaded guilty to robbery and were sentenced at Bolton Crown Court last week. One of the teenagers also pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article.

They were dealt with by way of community and youth referral orders, and compensation.

Chief inspector Chris Boyd, said: “This was an awful and frightening incident and although the victim remained calm throughout, he must have been terrified, especially having a knife pushed towards him during this ordeal.

“I must commend the swift and joined-up investigation from officers in the Bolton district.

“Following a report of a robbery, CID were asked to make some enquiries while our uniformed colleagues attended to obtain a report, CCTV evidence and a statement from the victim. Information shared from uniformed colleagues’ enquiries allowed detectives to focus on local taxi firms.

“It was established that the suspects had been collected from an address near to the offence location earlier in the evening. Detectives were notified that the suspects had booked another taxi and this was relayed to uniformed colleagues, who were waiting for the suspects, who were identified and arrested.

“Officers also recovered the stolen property and the weapon used in the offence.”

Child rapist jailed following campaign of abuse in Rochdale

Crime

Helen Greaney

-

12/03/2025

0

Child rapist jailed following campaign of abuse in Rochdale

A prolific rapist who abused underage girls in his Rochdale flat and cafe, has been jailed for 28 years.

Ajaz Ahmed (56) abused five victims, discovered as part of an investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) into historical sexual abuse.

In January 2016, the first victim reported she had been raped by several men at a party at Ahmed’s flat on Drake Street, when she was just 13 years old.

The victim identified the flat to officers, and their extensive enquiries revealed that the flat did and still belongs to Ahmed (pictured).

Police spoke to a young woman who, at aged 15, had been in a coercive and controlling relationship with Ahmed, during which, he had raped, sexually assaulted, and assaulted her on multiple occasions.

Ahmed had lied about his age, claiming to be 27, and over the course of several years, subjected her to a horrific period of abuse.

A third victim said Ahmed sexually assaulted her just before his 16th birthday. Fearing for her safety, she never reported the offence at the time.

On several occasions, Ahmed often bought the girls alcohol and took them to nightclubs to get drunk.

He offered one girl one of his flats in exchange for work at the café. After a few weeks of working for him, he sexually assaulted her.

Another victim, who was offered a room to stay in the Drake Street property, often found Ahmed would let himself into her property unannounced.

Ahmed began to regularly rape her, often telling her to ‘get ready for the other men’ who were coming.

Detective constable Ann Cooper Poole said: “It took just one brave survivor to come forward, speak to our officers and detail her abuse, and it opened up an entire case which resulted in us obtaining evidence that Ahmed was a callous and prolific sex offender.

“These girls had their childhoods and teen years tainted in the most abhorrent way, and they experienced what no one should ever experience. I want to commend their bravery for coming forward and speaking to us. They played a vital role in reaching today’s outcome; ensuring justice is reached and that this man is put behind bars, unable to cause any further harm to the community.

“Regardless of the time passed since you were affected by crimes of this nature, please come forward and report it to us. We are here to listen to victims and give them a voice when they are ready, and you will be supported by specialist partner agencies throughout the investigation and beyond, to give you the support you need to rebuild your lives.

“I hope this case will give other survivors of sexual abuse the confidence to com forward. It is never too late to seek justice.”

Ahmed was found guilty of ten counts of rape, seven counts of penetrative sexual activity with a child, ABH, non-penetrative sexual activity with a child, two counts of assault by penetration, indecent image of a child, and extreme pornography.

He was sentenced to 28 years in prison at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court.

Manchester businesses unite to raise £12,000 for charity

Helen Greaney

-

12/03/2025

0

Manchester businesses unite to raise £12,000 for charity

Manchester’s highest restaurant and European law firm came together for a charity dining event.

20 Stories and Fieldfisher, both located in Spinningfields, raised £12,000 for Back On Track – a local charity which supports those overcoming addiction, homelessness and mental health struggles in Greater Manchester.

The drink and dine event held at the restaurant was attended by 60 guests. Fieldfisher initially raised £6,000 through ticket sales.

Last year, Back on Track’s café served 3,500 healthy meals to those facing food poverty. The charity’s work continues to make a lasting impact in the city, with donations helping expand services like one-to-one support and budgeting workshops.

20 Stories first partnered with Back on Track in 2023, launching a campaign to donate £1 from every bill to the charity. Since then, executive head chef Daniel Scott (pictured below) has become personally invested with the charity and volunteers with them twice a week in the kitchens, alongside his full-time role.

2024 saw Daniel’s first fundraising event with Back On Track, where he curated a menu and took it to the Back On Track café for guests to enjoy together for one evening, raising £1,300 for the charity.

Guests at last week’s event enjoyed a Champagne reception from Piper-Heidsieck and a set menu including whipped goats curd and beetroot, fried sea bass and a banoffee sphere, all made with produce generously donated by 20 Stories suppliers and curated by Daniel Scott.

Guests also enjoyed a raffle, with prizes including a Blow dry at Vincenzo Fossella and Afternoon Tea at 20 Stories, Scissor Sisters tickets at the Co-op Live, a Manchester City Stadium Tour, Avanti West Coast tickets for any return trip and much more.

Samuel Turner from Back On Track said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support last week and look forward to continuing our mission thanks to the generosity of everyone involved. The funds raised will enable us to provide those who need the support, skills, and experience to imagine a better future for themselves through our courses, on-site café and one to one support. We’d love for other individuals and businesses to get involved to support the people in our city which can be contributed through donations, regular gifts, sponsorships, or fundraisers.”

Daniel Scott, executive head chef at 20 Stories said, “It was an honour to cook for everyone who came out last night to fundraise for a charity who mean a lot to both the city and me personally. It was brilliant to join forces with our neighbours at Fieldfisher to raise an amazing amount of money for such a worthy cause. We’re delighted to be able to support Back On Track to make sure they can keep up their life-changing work.”

David Bowcock, managing partner of the Fieldfisher Manchester office said: “The event was an evening to remember, and we’re thrilled to support Back On Track and contribute to their life-changing work.”

The 5 Most Common Late Payment Excuses Costing UK Businesses Millions

Business

News Desk

-

12/03/2025

0

The 5 Most Common Late Payment Excuses Costing UK Businesses Millions

New Report Highlights the Growing Problem of Unpaid Invoices

Late payments remain a persistent threat to UK businesses, tying up billions of pounds in overdue invoices. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, as many as 50,000 small businesses go under each year due to unpaid debts.

Fresh data from the UK’s leading business debt collection specialists, Federal Management, has exposed an increasing trend of excuses used by clients to delay payments.

Unpaid invoices can severely impact cash flow, slow down business growth, and create substantial financial difficulties. By identifying the most frequently used excuses, business owners can implement strategies to protect their earnings.

Findings reveal that the same excuses for delayed payments are being used repeatedly. While some late payments are justified, many businesses deliberately withhold payments as a way to avoid their financial responsibilities.

These delays are costing UK businesses millions of pounds every month. While some payments eventually come through, many invoices remain unpaid indefinitely.

Marc Curtis-Smith, Managing Director of Federal Management, commented: “Every day, Federal Management helps business owners faced with the non payment of invoices, so we thought it was a good idea to compile data relating to the most common excuses to help business owners combat the issue of late payment.”

The Top 5 Late Payment Excuses Used by Businesses

Federal Management’s expert Commercial team has identified the five most common reasons given by debtors for failing to pay unpaid invoices on time.

Here are the main excuses for late payment that business owners should be aware of:

1. “We Haven’t Received the Invoice”

One of the most frequently used excuses is many businesses claim they never received the invoice in the first place. In some cases, this may be a genuine issue caused by emails being lost or misplaced. However, some clients use this excuse as a delaying tactic.

Solution: Always send invoices promptly and follow up with a confirmation email. Using accounting software that provides read receipts or client portals where invoices can be accessed can help prevent this excuse.

2. “The Payment is Being Processed”

Many clients assure businesses that the payment is “in progress” or “scheduled for next week,” yet weeks go by without any funds being transferred. When a client is not paying an invoice, it can hit cashflow hard.

Marc Curtis-Smith advises: “If a client claims that payment is being processed, ask for a confirmation receipt or bank transaction details. If they can’t provide proof, it’s often just a stalling tactic.”

Solution: Request proof of payment and set a firm deadline for the funds to clear. If payments continue to be delayed, escalate the matter through professional debt recovery channels.

3. “Our Accounts Team is Out of Office”

A classic excuse – clients often claim that the person responsible for making payments is on holiday, off sick, or unavailable.

Solution: Politely but firmly remind the client that business operations should not stop due to staff absences. Offer alternative payment methods or ask for another authorised contact to process the payment. If delays persist, consider enlisting a professional debt collection agency.

4. “We’re Waiting to Be Paid by Our Clients”

Some businesses blame their own clients for late payments, claiming they can’t settle invoices until they receive funds from elsewhere.

Marc Curtis-Smith explains: “While cash flow issues can be genuine, it’s not your responsibility to wait until your client gets paid. Businesses should not allow their financial stability to be affected by another company’s mismanagement.”

Solution: Enforce clear payment terms from the start. If this excuse is used frequently, consider requesting upfront payments or deposits to mitigate risk.

5. “We Have Cash Flow Issues Right Now”

While some businesses may be struggling financially, others use this excuse to delay payments without genuine financial difficulties.

Solution: If a client claims financial hardship, ask for a structured payment plan rather than indefinite delays. However, if the excuse continues, it may be time to escalate the case to a professional debt collection agency like Federal Management.

Why UK Businesses need to take Action Against Late Payments

Late payments affect businesses at all levels, reducing working capital, causing operational delays, and even leading to insolvency. A proactive approach is essential to minimise risk and maintain financial stability.

Chasing unpaid invoices can be stressful, time consuming and counter productive. The preferred option for many businesses in 2025 is to work with a professional, accredited debt collection service.

For example, Federal Management provides businesses with a professional and regulated solution to recover outstanding debts. Their proven track record, high success rates, and ethical approach has made them the go-to choice for commercial debt recovery.

Notable Business Late Payment solutions

For over 20 years, Federal Management has been the trusted name for B2B Debt Collection across the UK. Regarded by many as the best debt collection agency solution, their high level reputation speaks volumes of the success they have provided for their clients.

Industry-Leading Success Rates – Federal Management boasts a recovery rate of up to 90% on undisputed debts.
Cost-Effective Debt Recovery – Their low commission rates make debt recovery affordable for businesses of all sizes.
Fully Regulated & Ethical Practices – As an FCA-authorised agency, Federal Management ensures compliance with UK laws and regulations.
Preserving Business Relationships – Their professional approach ensures that debts are recovered without damaging client relationships.
International Debt Collection – Federal Management offers global debt recovery solutions for businesses trading overseas.

For Consumer focused Debt Collection, Frontline Collections are highly rated with their first class solution for recovering debts from Private individuals.

Frontline Collections act on behalf of private enterprises such as Healthcare companies, Dental Groups, Veterinary practices and private schools.

Protect Your Business – Act Now

With late payments on the rise, businesses must be proactive in safeguarding their cash flow. When a client isn’t paying their invoice, it will hit cashflow hard for most SMEs.

Recent fiscal studies, well documented in the media have shown that Small Business late payment is responsible for the collapse of thousands of Businesses every year.

Partnering with a regulated UK Debt Collection specialist could help save thousands of SMEs this year.

Works begin to create 81 new homes on disused land in Bury

Construction

Helen Greaney

-

11/03/2025

0

Works begin to create 81 new homes on disused land in Bury

Work has started to transform the site of the former Seedfield Centre in Bury into 81 new family homes.

The brownfield site off Walmersley Road, closed as a school in 1987 and subsequently had a variety of uses, but for years had lain derelict, attracting vandals and anti-social behaviour.

Bury council has worked with developers Hive Homes to bring the plans for new homes to fruition, with £1 million of Brownfield Housing Fund Grant being awarded from the GMCA to remediate the land.

Over the summer, the disused and redundant buildings were cleared as they were found contaminated with asbestos.

The new development, named Roedeer Gardens, will realise 81 three and four bed, high-homes for rent and ownership, along with new facilities for the local football club.

New club changing facilities, access improvements and two new car parks for use by Seedfield Juniors FC have been built on part of the site, funded through the development’s section 106 contribution totalling £286,000.

Council leader Eamonn O’Brien said: “We have a ‘brownfield first’ policy when it comes to building new houses. This is a fantastic use of a derelict site, and we look forward to bringing to back to life with new homes for families with a range of housing needs.”

Some 25% of the new homes will be affordable housing, under a range of tenures including affordable rent, shared ownership and first homes.

Sustainability is also at the forefront of the development, with homes designed to Part L building standards and equipped with roof-mounted solar panels and a heat exchanger mechanism.

Ed Milner, managing director of Hive Homes, said: “We are delighted to have been selected by Bury Council as their partner for the re-development of the former Seedfield Centre and are looking forward to transforming this underused site into 81 much needed high quality, energy efficient homes under a range of tenures with 25% of the scheme satisfying the council’s Affordable criteria.

“Hive and the council have worked together closely to bring forward additional benefits to the local community through the provision of new changing facilities and off-site parking for the neighbouring Seedfield Juniors Football Club as well as street lighting improvements on Parkinson Street and pedestrian crossing upgrade on Walmersley Road.”

Why saving a parking space could land you a hefty fine

Transport

News Desk

-

11/03/2025

0

Why saving a parking space could land you a hefty fine

Manchester homeowners have been warned that putting a traffic cone or wheelie bin outside their home to save a parking space could land them with a hefty fine.

Residents in many parts of the country find it an exhausting battle to park outside or even close to their own property.

With the UK hosting many traditional terraced houses or roadside abodes, plenty come without their own driveway. This can lead to frustration and arguments between otherwise harmonious inhabitants.

The situation often leads some attempting to ‘save’ a spot by leaving objects such as traffic cones on the road outside their homes.

But while this may seem a harmless and even practical solution, experts at Select Car Leasing have revealed that it’s illegal and could therefore land you in trouble with the law.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, said: “It’s an often overlooked fact that public roads don’t belong to those whose houses are on them, but are instead the property of the local authority.

“That means you don’t have the right to a specific spot on a public highway.

“Anyone with a roadworthy and taxed vehicle can park in a legal parking spot on a public road, provided there are no restrictions such as double yellow lines or resident-only zones.”

Using traffic cones or bins to block off a parking space falls foul of Section 137 of the Highways Act, which states that it is an offence if a person “without lawful authority or excuse, in any way wilfully obstructs the free passage along a highway”.

If caught, you could face a prison sentence “not exceeding 51 weeks” and a fine. The object is also likely to be removed.

And if you have “borrowed” a parking cone from a local council or the highway authorities, this could be considered theft and leave you in the firing line for further penalties.

Graham added: “It’s not just the law that this type of action brings into play – it can be considered anti-social behaviour and risk causing increased tension in residential areas.

“We hear all the time about people ending up in court over local parking disputes and it’s easy to see how these matters quickly get out of hand as tempers fray.

“Much better to have a sensible conversation with your neighbours and try to find a solution that means everyone can have a fair claim to parking close to their own home.”

The Select Car Leasing expert laid out some of the legal ways to ensure you have a secure parking spot.

These include applying to the local council to create a residents-only scheme, converting a front yard or garden into a driveway, or renting a nearby space from someone who doesn’t use it.